Columnist Joanna Buoniconti: I envisioned this Valentine’s Day differently

Daylong standoff at Holyoke motel on Route 5 ends with suspect's death

HOLYOKE — Local and state police converged on the Budget Inn on Route 5 in Holyoke Thursday morning where a suspect in a fatal shooting in Hartford had barricaded himself in a room, police told the motel owners. According to the family who owns the Budget Inn, police told them the suspect shot and killed […]

South Hadley teachers protest proposed wage freeze

SOUTH HADLEY — A hush settled over the teachers lining the halls of the South Hadley Senior Center on Wednesday evening — the same kind of silence they often elicit from their students — before it gave way to chants. “What do we want? Fair Raises! When do we want them? Now!” As soon as […]

Making News in Business, June 19

Florence Bank presents President’s Award to 3 employees FLORENCE — Florence Bank recently presented the 2026 President’s Award to three employees for exceptional service. Established in 1995, the President’s Award recognizes outstanding performance, customer service and overall contribution to the bank. Those named are nominated by their colleagues at the bank. This year’s award recognizes […]

Legion baseball: Greenfield Post 81 holds off Belchertown Post 239

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Post 81 stayed unbeaten after a 9-4 win over Belchertown Post 239 on Wednesday night at Veterans Memorial Field. Greenfield (4-0) scored six runs in the first inning to pull away early. Arthur Fitzpatrick got the win on the mound, pitching three innings. Fitzpatrick gave up four runs with five strikeouts in […]

Perspectives vary on effectiveness of Tree House Brewing Co. concert changes

Tree House Brewing Co.'s Summer Stage concert series has been met with noise complaints from residents, despite the venue following new rules and making efforts to reduce the sound, such as adjusting the positioning of the subwoofer speakers.