Annual tree lighting and Toys for Tots Parade returns to Ludlow

Chaos and celebrations were underway at the flagship campus of the Bay State’s largest public university, as UMass Amherst’s newly-inaugurated chancellor had to combat more than just bright lights on stage.

It was a big day on the flagship campus of the state’s biggest public university. UMass Amherst inaugurated its 31st chancellor on Friday, but their official installment into the role isn’t coming without its setbacks.

Five dogs rescued from an overcrowded shelter down south are now at Dakin Humane Society in Springfield where they await new forever homes.

The superintendent saga continues, as the Amherst-Pelham Regional School District is still on the hunt to fill the position. Western Mass News got a look at the 3 finalists.

From Franklin to Hampden County, local police departments are encouraging folks to do a different kind of spring cleaning and will be collecting any unwanted or expired medications, no questions asked, on Saturday.