Chicopee officially bans single use plastic bags for retail stores
CHICOPEE — After an Ordinance Committee meeting on Sept. 30 and a City Council meeting on Oct. 1, both groups voted favorable to enact a single use plastic bag ban for the city.
Springfield residents demand historic bench returned or replaced
SPRINGFIELD — The park in Stearns Square dates from the end of the 18th century, a green oasis in downtown Springfield. But amid the large trees, manicured grass and brick paths is a jagged hole surrounded by yellow sawhorses — all that remains of a long, pink granite bench that sat on the site for 137 years. And the residents want it back.
Ronald McDonald Family Room to give parents place to recharge
SPRINGFIELD — Patients are not the only ones who receive care at Baystate Children’s Hospital. Family members often live and sleep alongside their children while they receive treatment. Now, there is a place of their own to refresh and relax for a time, without leaving their children.
Family traditions aid high turnout on Big E’s Agawam Day
Bill Toelken said as a neighboring community, it’s important that the Big E recognize Agawam with a special day: “There’s a lot of work that goes on to support the fair on both sides of the river, not just in West Springfield.”
Local author to give presentation on King Philip’s War
WILBRAHAM — When Longmeadow author Michael Tougias describes the infamous King Philip’s War in Western Massachusetts, he calls it cataclysmic and the bloodiest conflict in American History.