Nominations for Peacemaker Awards due March 15

All community members who are working with teenagers — including educators, mentors, youth group leaders and organizers — are encouraged to nominate outstanding young people for the annual Peacemaker Awards.

The awards recognize teens or groups who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to promoting peace, resolving conflicts, and building a more inclusive and harmonious community.

A nominee should be between the ages of 13 and 19, and have made a measurable, positive impact in their school, neighborhood or broader community through actions such as:

  • Conflict Resolution: Actively mediating disputes or developing programs to teach conflict resolution skills.
  • Promoting Inclusivity: Creating environments that welcome and respect people of all backgrounds, faiths and identities.
  • Community Service Focused on Peace: Organizing or participating in service projects that address the root causes of conflict or division.

Residents can nominate a deserving teen at interfaithcfc.org/peacemaker-awards by Sunday, March 15, in advance of the May 12 ceremony. With questions regarding the nomination process, email FranklinCountyPeacemakers@gmail.org.

Snowmobile trails close

Due to the lack of snow, the state Department of Conservation and Recreation has closed all snowmobile trails in western Massachusetts for the remainder of the season.

Snowmobiling is only accessible as conditions allow in compliance with DCR regulations. With questions, email mass.parks@mass.gov.

$200K awarded to Food Bank of Western Massachusetts

Across Massachusetts, reductions to federal food assistance funding and shifts to public policy, combined with high food costs, are increasing pressure on households and the nonprofit food system. As more residents turn to food pantries for support, food banks and community-based organizations are working to meet higher demand while navigating constraints in funding, infrastructure and supply.

In response, the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts awarded a $200,000 grant to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts in late January to help advance food access in the foundation’s three-county service area. The funding strengthens the food bank’s core operations and supports its network of nearly 200 local pantries and meal sites.

“Families across our region are facing growing challenges in accessing affordable, nutritious food,” Megan Burke, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, said in a statement. “This grant provides additional support to the food bank, helping them continue the essential work they do every day, including the support they provide to local food pantries throughout our region, ensuring that families have reliable access to the food they need.”

“The disruption of federal [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] benefits last November exposed its negative impact on thousands of people and local businesses in communities throughout our region,” Andrew Morehouse, executive director of the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, said in a statement. “We’re incredibly thankful to the Community Foundation for directing this generous gift to the food bank. It helps us continue to meet increased demand for nutritious food and build lasting food security across western Massachusetts.”

Nominations sought for Crossing Guard of the Year awards

BOSTON — The state Department of Transportation (MassDOT) has announced the launch of the sixth annual Safe Routes to School Crossing Guard Appreciation Campaign, recognizing the role crossing guards play in keeping students and families safe.  

The campaign begins with a Crossing Guard of the Year nomination period, followed by Crossing Guard Appreciation Day on March 25, and will culminate with the announcement of the 2026 Crossing Guard of the Year award winners. Award recipients will be recognized at the annual Safe Routes to School Awards Ceremony in June.

The nomination period will close at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, which marks Crossing Guard Appreciation Day. On that day, schools and students are encouraged to recognize the crossing guards in their community in ways that are meaningful to them.

The nomination form, printable thank-you cards and flyers are available at mass.gov/info-details/safe-routes-to-school-crossing-guard-resources#crossing-guard-appreciation.

Schools must be Safe Routes to School partners for their crossing guards to be eligible. Previous award recipients are not eligible. The number of nominations received does not impact a crossing guard’s chances of selection, and MassDOT encourages communities to collaborate on thoughtful submissions.

Quabbin Photo Group presentation rescheduled

BELCHERTOWN — Due to the snowstorm in February, the Quabbin Photo Group has rescheduled its presentation by Jack Bonafini, outdoor education specialist with the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, to Monday, March 23, at 7 p.m. at the Belchertown Recreation Department, 66 State St. Bonafini’s presentation will focus on tracking deer, designed especially for photographers.

With nearly a decade of experience in the Hunter Education and Learn to Hunt programs, Bonafini brings field knowledge and practical insight into deer biology, habitat, food preferences and tracking techniques. His presentation will provide attendees with a better understanding of deer behavior and movement patterns, along with real-world strategies for reading signs and interpreting the landscape.

The Quabbin Photo Group welcomes anyone with an interest in nature photography, whether beginner or experienced.