Good morning, Springfield.

The Valley Opportunity Council is urging Hampden County households to apply for HEAP assistance early, with applications mailed next week and the review process starting Oct.

1. More than 20,000 households received aid last heating season, and rising oil costs may boost demand this year.

Bacon Wilson, P.C. announced that four attorneys and one recognized as Ones to Watch were honored in the 2027 Best Lawyers editions + peer reviews supported the awards for their expertise in elder law, banking, finance and business organizations serving clients in Western Mass.

Opa-Opa Brewing Company owners said they were shocked not to be invited back to Big E after nearly 20 years due to layout changes — the decision does not block future applications.

Their viral video gained over 100,000 views and strong community support.

Arcadia Folk Festival returns on Saturday at Easthampton Wildlife Sanctuary.

Gates open at 10:30 a.m. and the event features folk music, workshops, nature trails (with a songwriter workshop at 11 a.m.) and artisan vendors offering food and crafts until 7:30 p.m.

Kiley Prep Middle School is launching a classroom pilot this school year that uses two hours of AI learning with teacher support.

Educators worry that AI could replace traditional roles (a union meeting is planned later this week) and continue to discuss these concerns.

Local families preparing for the school year learn that tutoring can boost student confidence and lessen homework stress, explained Megan Allen from The Community Classroom (which offers support from pre-K to high school).

Her approach will be featured on Parenting Playbook in upcoming episodes.

Today, Parenting Playbook features a discussion with attorney Stephanie Fitzgerald on back-to-school parental conflicts and ways to put a child first, including advice for separated families as detailed by host Susan Goodman.

Local health boards in Westfield and Southwick require stores to remove kratom (a Schedule I substance) by Friday, Aug.

28. Stores that do not comply may face suspension of their business or tobacco licenses.

Vital Care of Springfield hosts its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony today from 4 to 6 p.m. at 144 Doty Circle in West Springfield, where community leaders and healthcare experts gather to tour the new facility and learn about its infusion therapy services.

On Tuesday, the Red Sox rallied to secure a 7-3 win in 11 innings after Jarren Duran hit a 412-foot grand slam against the Marlins at LoanDepot Park—improving the team’s record to 73-59.