Springfield
SHA: low audit score was due to software issue
SPRINGFIELD — The low rating given to the Springfield Housing Authority from its most recent audit by the Department of Housing and Urban Development was not unexpected Denise Jordan, the executive director of the agency, told Reminder Publishing. The low score...
Legislators approve extended tenure for Springfield police superintendent
SPRINGFIELD — The state Legislature, including the entire Springfield delegation, approved a home rule petition that will allow Police Superintendent Lawrence Akers to remain in the position until the age of 70.
Northampton resident nominated as Superior Court associate justice
NORTHAMPTON — Northampton resident Deepika Shukla was recently nominated to the Massachusetts Superior Court by Gov. Maura Healey.
Hockey Day honors history starting with Coliseum, Shore
WEST SPRINGFIELD — Over the years, Greater Springfield has been home to Falcons and Thunderbirds. Kings have also reigned supreme. Those hockey teams are part of the region’s history of sending hundreds of local stars to the National Hockey League.
Sheriff’s Shuffle 5k/walk to benefit YWCA domestic violence programs
SPRINGFIELD — Each year, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department hosts a charity 5K/walk to benefit a local organization that helps the community. This year the race will benefit domestic violence prevention and support efforts from the YWCA of Western Massachusetts, a cause that is personal to Sheriff Nick Cocchi.
ValleyBike to officially return to the region in mid-August
NORTHAMPTON — After a slight delay and several months of laying idle, the regional ValleyBike Share program will officially make its return on Aug. 12.
Springfield Thunderbirds host Community Caravan
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Thunderbirds visited Forest Park for the second of three Community Caravan events on July 22. The event featured an appearance from Thunderbirds mascot Boomer and team staff, as well as a wide variety of activities and vendors, street hockey activities, and food. The first Community Caravan event took place in June at Look Park in Northampton and a third will take place at Amelia Park in Westfield on Aug. 17, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Casino grant to fund garage, green space, police equipment in Springfield
SPRINGFIELD — The Massachusetts Gaming Commission recently announced it had awarded Springfield $2.86 million for improvements for fiscal year 2025 through its Community Mitigation Fund.
Springfield takes legal action to address former Vibra site
SPRINGFIELD — Overgrown weeds and graffiti on the inside of windowpanes are obvious signs of dereliction at the former Vibra Hospital at 1400 State St. The building was abandoned by Vibra Healthcare in fall 2023. While the city entered into a purchase and sale agreement for the property at the time, Mayor Domenic Sarno said the company has not held up its end of the bargain.
Springfield schools implement new attendance policy
SPRINGFIELD — Chronic absenteeism has been a struggle for school departments nationwide over the past few years. The Springfield School Committee met on June 20 to approve policy changes designed to remove barriers to attending school.