WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS

Apr 11 2026POLITICS

Birth Centers: A Missing Piece in Massachusetts Health

Massachusetts leads in insurance coverage, yet its maternity care falls short. A federal study showed that low‑risk births at freestanding centers cut preterm deliveries and cesarean sections, saving over $2, 000 per family. Only one such center is currently open, and it faces possible closure

reading time less than a minute
Apr 11 2026WEATHER

A mild Friday then a cooler weekend in Massachusetts

Massachusetts starts Friday with chilly morning air in the mid-30s before climbing to the mid-to-upper 60s during the afternoon. Boston should land around 68 degrees, Worcester near 67, Springfield close to 69, and the Berkshires about 66. Cape Cod and the Islands will be the coolest pocket at 51 de

reading time less than a minute
Apr 08 2026POLITICS

A Quick Look at Massachusetts' Health Funding Fix

Massachusetts just set aside another $300 million to keep public workers' health plans running until summer. Lawmakers pushed this through fast, signing the bill the same day it cleared both chambers. The money targets the Group Insurance Commission, which handles health plans for roughly 460, 000 p

reading time less than a minute
Mar 29 2026WEATHER

Shifting Weather: From Snow to Sunny Days in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is set for a roller‑coaster of weather. Overnight, the state will feel the chill as temperatures drop to the mid‑20s in Boston and central areas, while western spots might see teens. The cold will ease quickly; by Sunday afternoon clear skies and temperatures in the mid‑40s are expecte

reading time less than a minute
Mar 16 2026SPORTS

High‑School Stars Shine in Western North Carolina

Western North Carolina high schools are buzzing after a week of exciting sports. Students and fans alike can now vote for the top female athlete who delivered an outstanding performance last week. The voting deadline is Thursday noon. The winner of last week’s spot was Lilly Lossiah from Cherokee,

reading time less than a minute
Mar 12 2026SPORTS

High‑School Hoops Heat and New Coaching Moves

Massachusetts high‑school basketball is buzzing as playoff games deliver tight finishes and standout performances. In one matchup, a sixth‑seeded team edged past the seventh seed with a 68-65 win, thanks to a player who added 46 points and stole the ball ten times. His season total of 154 points ove

reading time less than a minute
Feb 13 2026WEATHER

Eugene-Springfield: Bracing for a Chilly Surprise

Western Oregon, including Eugene and Springfield, might see a rare snow event next week. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a forecast that includes the possibility of freezing temperatures and light snowfall from February 16 to February 18. This weather pattern is expected to bring a mix

reading time less than a minute
Jan 27 2026WEATHER

Chilly Days Ahead: What's in Store for Western North Carolina?

Western North Carolina is still feeling the chill after a big winter storm. The National Weather Service says it's not over yet. They warn of very cold wind chills. These can drop as low as -19 degrees. That's dangerous. Frostbite can happen quickly. So can frozen pipes. People need to be careful.

reading time less than a minute
Jan 13 2026RELIGION

How Faith and Community Helped Asheville Bounce Back

Western North Carolina faced a huge challenge when Hurricane Helene hit on September 27, 2024. The storm caused serious damage, leaving many people without homes. Over 160 Veterans at the Veterans Restoration Quarters, run by Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), were among those

reading time less than a minute
Jan 12 2026WEATHER

Massachusetts: A Day of Wind, Rain, and Snow

Massachusetts is in for a wild weather ride on Sunday. It all starts with a chilly morning, but things heat up a bit as the day goes on. The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for the Berkshires, with gusts that could hit 50 mph. This advisory is in effect from 9 p. m. Sunday to 9 a

reading time less than a minute