Springfield
So That Reminds Me: Boar’s Head Festival returns Jan. 9-11
SPRINGFIELD — From Jan. 9-11, the Boar’s Head Festival will take place at Trinity United Church in Springfield.
Officials, activists rally with city’s Somali community
SPRINGFIELD — “No more. We will not stand for injustices.” Those were the words of state Sen. Adam Gomez on Dec. 9 as he, his fellow legislators, educators, activists and community members gathered to stand in solidarity with the Somali Bantu community after President Donald Trump described them as “garbage.”
Heartbeat of New Orleans music comes to Springfield
SPRINGFIELD — An all-star ensemble of musicians are coming to Springfield with the “Take Me to the River: New Orleans” concert at HOPE Center for the Arts on Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. The concert is inspired by the 2022 documentary of the same name, which will be shown for free on Jan. 3 at 4 p.m.
Zaza Green donates $500 in toys to Indian Orchard
SPRINGFIELD — The holidays are a time of joy but can also be stressful for families who are experiencing financial difficulties. Each year, the Indian Orchard Citizens Council hosts a toy drive to help families give their children some holiday magic.
Permanent housing funding for homeless at risk
SPRINGFIELD — As the freezing temperatures of winter in New England continue, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno joined at least 24 of his counterparts from communities across the country in urging the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development not to cut previously-approved grants for people experiencing homelessness.
Cannabis changes pass, synthetic kratom ban delayed in Springfield
SPRINGFIELD — After a spirited debate on Dec. 8 regarding changes to Springfield’s cannabis ordinance and how the distance from a school is measured, the three proposed amendments sailed through the City Council with little opposition at its Dec. 15 meeting.
Observances planned for Knox Trail’s 250th in Jan.
Westfield Historical Commissioner Jennifer Thielen read a proclamation to the City Council at its meeting on Dec. 18 in honor of Major General Henry Knox.
Neal, Banko warn legislation will hurt area health care
Baystate Health CEO Peter Banko and U.S. Rep. Richard Neal sat on either side of a low table in front of about 150 officials, health industry leaders and community organizers.
Toy for Joy ensures happy holiday for children
As Christmas Eve came and went, hundreds of families and thousands of children prepared to enjoy Christmas because the generosity of the local community made it possible.
Italian Christmas Market comes to Springfield’s south end
SPRINGFIELD — On Winthrop Street in the heart of Springfield’s south end, members of the area’s Italian American community filtered in and out of a tent, buying holiday gifts from local artisans, eating roasted pecans and listening to a musician perform Christmas carols.

