Sarah Heinonen

SPRINGFIELD — Whether it is complaints about the noise, reckless nature of the drivers or groups of them clogging roads, city officials and residents have increasingly said dirt bikes have become a nuisance on Springfield streets.

SPRINGFIELD — Porter and Chester Institute had plenty to celebrate on Oct. 5. After relocating from Chicopee, the workforce training company opened its Springfield location. It also commemorated its 80th anniversary.

SPRINGFIELD — After 15 years working the polls in Springfield’s elections, Warden Lillian Lisojo said she has a lot of confidence in the voting process.

SPRINGFIELD — About a dozen residents filled seats in the Indian Orchard Community Center. Several officers from the Springfield Police Department, members of Hampden County District Attorney’s Office and community organizations sat behind a U-shaped set of tables in the room. The residents had concerns; the police were there to listen.

AGAWAM — Agawam city councilors want the School Committee to know they support its authority over school traditions.

AGAWAM — An eerie New England coastal town, an old house and a legend that may not appear to be what it seems. This is the setting for local author Chris Pisano’s debut book young adult novel, “The Secret Spirit Society: The Legend of Captain Shanks.”

SPRINGFIELD — The City Council Public Health Committee met to discuss what actions the city’s legislative body can take to oppose a long-proposed biomass energy facility at 1000 Page Blvd.

SPRINGFIELD — Business consultant Ryan McCollum reassured the City Council that a halal fresh market at 785 Page Blvd., which will slaughter chickens to order, will be a retail environment rather than a stereotypical butcher shop.

SPRINGFIELD — Liberty Junction LLC, the developers behind the Springfield Regional Justice Center, wants residents to know they have plans to revitalize the area around the future courthouse — and the community it is invited to come along.

SPRINGFIELD — Educators and parents had a chance to directly ask the Springfield School Committee about the issues that were important to them during a town hall on Oct. 22.