RECREATION

NEPM's Nancy Cohen reports on difficulties in western Massachusetts employment, inspiring Monte Belmonte and Kaliis Smith to do a little reconnaissance of their own. Plus the Word Nerd takes us to the bestest part of her building: the spooky word-filled basement — and Kaliis talks about word games.

The annual New Years Day tradition originated in Massachusetts 30 years ago and now runs in all 50 states

Rowing is a sport that’s often associated with wealth and privilege. But some rowing clubs in western Massachusetts are trying to change that by offering free youth programs. Springfield’s Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club invites students from a nearby middle school to get trained in rowing, fitness and nutrition — during the school day.

For nearly 50 years, the Privacy Campground in Hancock, Massachusetts, has had a loyal following. And it's usually powered entirely by a hydro-electric system. The campground has another rare amenity, a public bomb shelter dating back to the Cold War.

Springfield, Massachusetts, annual Puerto Rican parade will make its way down Main Street in the city's downtown.

The organizers of the first annual Tour de Greylock, which would have circled the base of the highest mountain in Massachusetts, is canceled —at least for this year.

More people came to the fair on Friday, Saturday and Sunday than had since 2005.

The Black Men of Greater Springfield organization is able to offer the program to families for free with city and state funding.

Fiestas Patronales — or the festival of the saints — is a yearly festival held in each municipality of the island of Puerto Rico.

The Eagle Street Beach Party requires hundreds of tons of sand delivered by the city and spread by volunteers.