Good morning, Springfield.

Southwick held a ceremony on Friday to remember the 25-year anniversary of 9/11 with the tolling of a firehouse bell and live taps performance.

City officials and residents gathered at the Fire Department to reflect on the victims, first responders, and community unity + honor those who lost their lives.

The MassMutual Center will receive nearly $100 million from the state — funds that will upgrade concession areas, premium seating, and digital signage — to help the venue compete for concerts and sports events.

General manager Sean Dolan said the improvements aim to modernize the facility and boost revenue.

The city held its 36th annual Puerto Rican Parade on Sept.

13 after the Pa’lante 5K on Sept. 12. More than 100 groups marched to honor Puerto Rican heritage -- a celebration that builds pride for future generations.

A Massachusetts lottery player won $416,405 on Sunday by playing the Timber Wolf online game & players can wager from 50 cents to $50 for a chance at the $116,360 wild jackpot.

At least 608 prizes worth $600 or more were claimed statewide.

Springfield Public Schools resumed classes on Monday after a weeklong shutdown caused by a cyberattack that blocked access to emails, phones and computers.

The FBI is investigating the breach while officials confirm systems are secure + counselors offer support for returning students.

Officials say the invasive spotted lanternfly, first seen in 2021, is now in over 150 towns and threatens local trees and crops as researchers work with farmers on pesticide treatments and crop netting (residents are urged to check belongings to slow its spread).

Baystate Health launched an AI-based weapons detection system Monday at Baystate Wing Hospital in Palmer and is testing it today at Baystate Medical Center to screen visitors without slowing traffic.

The system will expand to main entrances across the network in the fall.

Local high school teams revealed their 2026 girls soccer captains after MassLive released rankings in August and September.

The list includes schools from Monson, Belchertown, Chicopee and others and noted details from past matches like the contest at Clark Field on Nov. 17, 2025.

High school football teams in Western Mass made strong season openers on Friday, with Westfield Bombers rolling to a 55-12 win over Fitchburg and Taconic rallying for a 28-21 win over West Springfield.

Other teams also set the tone with key plays and impressive performances.

Five Western Mass. high school soccer players are drawing attention this fall season in early games.

Aguila (Amherst) has four goals in three games; Barone (South Hadley) tallied a hat trick; Baidoo (Springfield Intl Charter) and Kulla (East Longmeadow) each scored three goals; Carter (Granby) recorded 16 saves.