National Adoption Day: In a courthouse in Hadley, 14 children and their families formalize their bond

HADLEY - The Blair family keeps on growing. Friday, Martha and Wayne Blair of Leeds officially adopted 3-year-old Savannah. It was a big to-do, attended not only by mom and dad, her big sister and two big brothers, but also by the people she calls grandma and papa and uncle and aunt. And there were plenty of stories just like Savannah's: Adoptions for 13 other children from Hampshire and Franklin counties were finalized at the courthouse Friday as part of National Adoption Day.
--Judge cites desperate need in region for foster families
--Trumpeting the value of foster care adoption

Supporters of Green Street Cafe press city to mediate

NORTHAMPTON - The city will attempt to mediate a contentious long-running dispute between Smith College and Green Street Cafe.

Northampton neighbors to discuss suspicious fires

NORTHAMPTON - While residents in the Hawley Street area remain on edge after recent fires in their neighborhood, a forum planned for Tuesday night will seek to allay their fears.

Beginning at 7 p.m. in the Bridge Street School library, the session is organized by Ward 3 City Councilor Robert Reckman and the ward's neighborhood group.

New funding found for Holyoke Soldiers Home outpatient clinic

HOLYOKE - Area lawmakers say they've been able to restore $500,000 in funding for the Holyoke Soldiers Home to save its outpatient clinic.

Lilly book sale this weekend

NORTHAMPTON - Friends of the Lilly Library in Florence will host an indoor book sale today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the library's community room.

Classics, collectibles and books recently removed from the library collection will be offered for sale. Prices will range from 50 cents to about $5, and books will be sold by the bag later in the day, said Friends member Alton Neal.

Northampton housing needs are focus of meetings today, Monday

NORTHAMPTON - The Housing Partnership is asking for public comment on a study that outlines the city's housing needs, the first step toward development of a comprehensive strategic plan aimed at boosting affordable housing throughout the city.

Awaiting approval, new property values listed

NORTHAMPTON - Property owners who want to see how much the city thinks their property is worth are invited to stop by the Assessor's Office to peruse a new set of assessments awaiting state approval.