by Sarah Heinonen | Aug 6, 2026 | Agawam, Chicopee, East Longmeadow, Easthampton, Hampden, Hampden County, Hampshire County, Hilltowns, Holyoke, Local News, Longmeadow, Ludlow, Monson, Northampton, Palmer, Southwick, Springfield, West Springfield, Westfield, Wilbraham
A nonverbal teen with Down syndrome named Matteo left his house in Monson on June 29 without an adult’s knowledge. He was found two days later about a mile from his home. While the incident ended safely, it brought the issue of wandering among children with developmental disabilities to the forefront. State Rep. Angelo Puppolo joined the Office of the Child Advocate and the Department of Developmental Services in efforts to raise awareness about wandering among children with autism spectrum disorder.
by Sarah Heinonen | Aug 6, 2026 | Local News
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Preservation Trust is inviting the public to a “Party at the Pond.” For this summer’s annual fundraiser. The organization is hosting an afternoon event at a private lakefront home tied to Springfield’s midcentury past.
by Sarah Heinonen | Aug 5, 2026 | Hampden County, Local News, Springfield
SPRINGFIELD — Get ready for vibrant colors, lively music and dancing in the street as the Springfield Caribbean Carnival & Parade returns on Saturday, Aug. 15.
by Sarah Heinonen | Aug 5, 2026 | Hampden County, Local News, Springfield
SPRINGFIELD — While many children hula hooped and played with flying discs and drop four games near the splash pad at Forest Park, Daniel Beauchamp was hard at work. He hopped onto a specially equipped stationary bicycle and began pedaling. That movement powered the motor of a blender, turning fresh fruits and a little bit of lemon juice into a slushy puree.
by Sarah Heinonen | Aug 5, 2026 | Hampden County, Local News, Springfield
SPRINGFIELD — The steps of Symphony Hall were lined with American flags as firefighters, police and emergency responders milled around in their dress uniforms. Above them, an enormous Puerto Rican flag flew, held aloft by two Springfield Fire Department ladder trucks. Inside, small Puerto Rican flags were handed out to the rows of people who came to watch Miguel “Mike” Rivera be sworn in as Springfield’s first Latino fire commissioner.
