Good morning, Springfield.

The 7-year-old Elizabeth Poggi of Agawam has run a lemonade stand for three summers to support Dakin Humane Society (her parents match her donations); she raised $1,070 this summer and hopes to reach $1,500 next year.

Liz Wills-O’Gilvie, director of the Springfield Food Policy Council, fasted 19 days to spotlight SNAP cuts and resumed eating liquid foods Friday.

She urges residents to fast for one meal or day in August and September (as part of a national campaign) to push legislators to restore benefits.

The 53rd annual Mattoon Street Arts Festival will be held in downtown Springfield’s historic district on Saturday, Sept.

12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—featuring 100 exhibitors, live music, local food vendors, and free parking.

New SNAP rules that require work or school attendance take effect today, and advocates warn local families may lose food stamps if paperwork is missed.

Gov. Anti-Hunger Task Force member Liz O’Gilvie said some grandparents raising grandchildren are at risk + they must now meet work requirements to keep their help.

Springfield Police and city officials ask drivers to slow down in school zones as the new school year nears; the speed limit is 20 mph (it is illegal to pass a school bus with its stop arm out), and parents are urged to follow each school’s drop-off rules for safety.

Springfield received a $1M earmark secured by Rep. Neal for the Forest Park horticultural center.

Announced in early August with Mayor Sarno and other officials, the funding will cover phase one design and site work for a center planned for education and recreation near the Monkey House (a key step in local park improvements).

State Rep. Angelo Puppolo organized a symposium at Greenleaf Community Center (in Springfield) that brought together autism experts, families, and educators to share strategies to reduce wandering among autistic youth.

Hundreds of student-athletes prepared over the summer with workouts and captain’s practices as Springfield Public Schools readied fields, facilities and medical clearances for fall sports at its six schools.

Fall competitions begin Monday.