Athol veterans begin installation of 'A Purple Heart Town' signs

‘Meet the moment,’ disability advocates urge at statewide session held in western Mass.

NORTHAMPTON — Monica Samano, a 37-year-old Easthampton woman with disabilities, enjoys an active, independent life in her community. But she worries about what will happen when her mother and caregiver is no longer able to care for her. “I’d like to live in our house with people helping me, but I don’t know if that […]

Advocates urge supplemental funding for Massachusetts SNAP caseworkers

Food security advocates are calling for supplemental funding for the Department of Transitional Assistance following Gov. Maura Healey's signing of a state budget that allocates $122 million, a level critics argue is insufficient to meet the needs of residents facing food insecurity.

Baystate Franklin nurses call for DPH investigation into patient transport cuts

Massachusetts nurses held a demonstration at Baystate Franklin Medical Center to demand a Department of Health investigation into reduced patient transport hours, citing concerns over patient safety and increased workloads.

North Quabbin Notebook: July 17, 2026

July 17: ‘Sounds of the Seasons’ concert ORANGE — The Orange Community Band continues its summer season on Friday, July 17, at 7 p.m. at the Butterfield Park bandstand with a program titled “Sounds of the Seasons.” Conductor Stephanie Parker, a second-generation band member, is enjoying her 24th season in the role. She joined the band as an elementary school student. Her father, Terry Parker, has long been the band’s tuba player, and her brother Terry II also played. They join other family groups and longtime members. Many band members have more than 50 years of membership. The program on July […]

Letting it fly: Golfer Bill Wonkka wins car with hole-in-one at fundraiser for senior center

NORTHAMPTON — A hole-in-one is the ultimate accomplishment in the game of golf given its rarity and level of difficulty to accomplish… that is, for most amateur golfers. Bill Wonkka, of Templeton, earned an ace at last month’s Swing for Seniors 3 fundraiser golf tournament, to benefit the Northampton Senior Center, at Saint Anne Country […]