DCR acquires 218 acres in Blandford
BLANDFORD — The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation announced on Feb. 25 the acquisition of 218 acres of forested land in the town of Blandford, which will now be permanently protected.
Settlement negotiations between Westfield, police officers stall
SPRINGFIELD — The city of Westfield and 17 current Westfield Police Department officers have been unable to reach a settlement after the officers filed a lawsuit against the city alleging they should have been paid “regular wages” when attending the police academy.
Senate adopts legislation for call duty firefighters
WESTFIELD — It’s been said that words matter, and in the case of creditable service legislation filed by state Sen. John Velis, changing “the” to “any” will affect call firefighters across the state if adopted by the House and signed by the governor.
Frederick Harris among schools exhibiting ‘surge’ of academic growth
SPRINGFIELD — Each year, the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education highlights schools that have achieved marked progress toward annual accountability targets.
Unity Basketball Nights return to Northampton this spring
NORTHAMPTON — Unity Basketball Nights will grace the city across five Mondays this spring, as children in grades 5-8 are invited to gather with community responders for evenings filled with athletic fun and pizza.
Holyoke City Council withdraws proposal over due process concerns
HOLYOKE — On Feb. 17, the Holyoke City Council voted against a proposal that would allow councilors to be removed from any leadership position on the City Council if they are charged with a crime.