Federal changes threaten to swell ranks of homeless

Western Mass housing advocates say 46% shelter decline masks barriers for families

The Western Massachusetts Network to End Homelessness reports a 46% decrease in families living in shelters due to state and federal policy changes, but advocates warn that many families are still living in unsafe places due to these regulations.

Athol Fire Department recognized for smoke alarm program's life-saving efforts

The Athol Fire Department has been recognized for efforts to install free smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the community, in collaboration with the Red Cross. According to Luca Calvani, Red Cross Community Disaster Program Manager, having working smoke alarms can cut the risk of house fires by about 50%. The department's efforts have saved five lives, and they have also increased fire safety awareness through community-wide efforts.

Jeff Thiem promoted to assistant superintendent at Athol DPW

Jeff Thiem, a longtime employee at the Athol Department of Public Works, has been appointed as assistant superintendent, following the promotion of Paul Raskevitz to superintendent. Thiem has worked his way up through the department since joining in 2016, and has a range of licenses in water, highway and arboriculture. The department is currently working on a number of major projects.

Amherst College receives $50 million gift for new student center

AMHERST — A $50 million gift, one of the largest ever received by Amherst College, will go to support the new student center and dining commons, which is expected to open for the fall semester as the Ford Student Center. The gift comes from William “Bill” Ford, a member of the Class of 1983, his […]

Saying ‘people are afraid,’ Healey lays out ICE guidance

BOSTON — Massachusetts is guiding schools and colleges on how to deny federal immigration enforcement access to nonpublic areas, advising healthcare facilities on how to protect confidential health information, and working with places of worship on ways to interact with officers, as well as posting guidance on state property “to make really clear that ICE […]