Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 12th of August.
Good morning, Springfield.
The MassMutual Foundation awarded $275,000 through its annual Community Service Award program to nonprofit organizations nationwide — the awards include two $25,000 prizes for Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts and the Rylee Grace Foundation in honor of Jessica Holloway and Mike Clark.
Bob Charland (aka Bob the Bike Guy) is partnering with local law enforcement to give free medical supplies to Springfield residents after federal Medicaid cuts.
He provides items from adult diapers to hospital beds while offering youth groups community service hours at his warehouse.
A four-alarm fire burned through Chet’s Wrecking and Auto Parts in Springfield last night—over 70 firefighters and a hazmat team responded while no one was injured and an investigation into a possible spark from lithium-ion batteries continues.
A massive fire broke out Friday night at a scrap yard on Page Boulevard and Springfield firefighters fought the blaze for nearly 17 hours using over three million gallons of water while state officials tested the air quality — no injuries were reported.
Priscilla Kane Hellweg, director of the Arts Integration Studio, discussed her new Truth Tellers Theater Ensemble, a nine-month program that uses theater to address childhood trauma and build trust among its diverse members.
The group performed at the Massachusetts State House+ for 80 case workers+ and plans to expand its arts and advocacy work.
Officials in Connecticut wrote to the EPA asking for help after Holyoke discharged millions of gallons of untreated sewage and rainwater into the Connecticut River on July 27, July 31, and August 1, which raised public health, environmental and economic concerns.
Holyoke’s mayor said the city has spent millions on upgrades but needs to work further with the EPA and MassDEP to reduce overflows — a stance echoed by state lawmakers.
Drivers in West Springfield face delays and closures today due to road paving work—local officials advise following posted detours.
The Hampden County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Nick Cocchi, has partnered with a production company to launch a new program—Family Lockup—that lets repeat offenders spend 48 to 72 hours with their families to help break the crime cycle; the show will premiere on Thursday, August 21 on A&E.
Aquanett Live Concert
6:30-8 p.m. — Forest Park Amphitheater — Free entry — Experience the electrifying 80's Rock n Metal show by Aquanett in a beautiful outdoor setting.
The Black Keys - No Rain, No Flowers Tour
7:00-8:30 p.m. — MassMutual Center — Ticket sales begin May 16 — Catch the Grammy-winning duo for an electrifying night of rock.
Watercolor Workshop
10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Springfield Museums — $110 | $94 for members — Explore watercolor techniques with guided themes of architecture, flowers, and water scenes.
Flora & Fauna: Historic Carriage House Tour & Garden Party Fundraiser
1-4 p.m. — Carriage House at The Barney — $40-$50 — Experience a blend of history, music, and nature in a vibrant garden setting with a historic tour and a silent auction.
Brimfield Outdoor Antiques Show
All Day — Brimfield Town Hall Annex — Entry fee varies — Explore the largest antique and collectibles market in the U.S. with thousands of dealers.
Latino Arts Festival 2025
5-8 p.m. — Springfield Museums — Free entry — Celebrate the vibrant arts and cultures of Latin America with music, exhibitions, and hands-on activities.
Crochet Club Drop-In
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM — Make-It Springfield — Free, Donation, or Supporter options — Connect with fellow crafters in a welcoming crochet community.
North East Toy Show
5 PM – 5 PM — MassMutual Center — Affordable options for families and businesses — Celebrate the creativity and joy of specialty toys at the premier East Coast showcase.
The Big E 2025
8 a.m. - 8 p.m. — Eastern States Exposition — $16+ — Experience 17 days of agricultural fun, live concerts, and cultural experiences from across New England.
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