A pandemic, a civil rights uprising, economic turmoil, an historic election – this year has brought many hardships. It has made the inequalities and divisions in our society more clear. It’s also been a time for reflection and change. Social service providers and community activists, already making do with a lack of resources, have been […]
Community & Lifestyle
Looking for unique holiday gifts?
“This is a really good time to go with the flow,” says Adena Rivas of launching Creative Reuse Marketplace during 2020. Rivas works for the City of Springfield as the waste and recycling programs coordinator, in addition to her volunteer work as the founder and project manager of the Creative Reuse Marketplace (CRM). Beginning in […]
SAA Collective opens new gallery downtown
The Springfield Art Association (SAA) Collective has opened its new gallery in the historic Broadwell Pharmacy building downtown at 105 N. Fifth Street, relocating from the Hoogland Center for the Arts, which has been closed to the public since March. “The closure was a big piece” of moving the gallery, states Betsy Dollar, SAA executive […]
Obesity and pets
According to the Association of Pet Obesity Prevention, in 2017, more than 56 percent of pet dogs were overweight or obese and 60 percent of cats fell in the same category. Owners must ensure their pets maintain healthy diets and remain active to avoid putting their animals at risk of developing serious diseases. Here are […]
Money saving tips
Every responsible pet owner realizes their four-legged friends is a commitment. In addition to annual wellness checks, there are often emergencies. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports cost of pet care is increasing due to advances in medical technology. For this reason, they suggest acquiring pet health insurance. Of course, you should ask your local […]
Caring for a senior pet
As your beloved pet ages, you may notice concerning behavior changes. While some differences may not seem significant, they must be reported to your veterinarian, especially as animals begin their senior years. Urgency is key as some symptoms can be caused by medical problems that demand immediate attention. Advances in medical technology are helping aging […]
Pet-specific first-aid kit
You may already know the importance of keeping a first-aid kit around. Since animals are naturally curious and act on instincts, it can be lifesaving to have an emergency kit specifically for their needs, especially if you are far from home and medical care. Many of the recommended items to keep at hand for your […]
Diabetic pets
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, diabetes is most common in older pets but still occurs in younger and pregnant animals. Much like when the disease is found in people, early detection makes it more manageable. Learn the warning signs and how to care for your pet suffering from diabetes. A common form of […]
Pandemic pastimes
If you wonder what many of us are doing during the pandemic and plan to continue for the upcoming holidays, look no further than the alphabet’s second letter. Bonding, booking, baking, birding and biking are popular ways to cope with the stress of the virus and stay-at-home directives. Bonding Ryan Leake, owner of Little Lincoln’s […]
Spread holiday cheer by sharing your talent
In one of my all-time favorite movies, Dan in Real Life, Steve Carell plays Dan Burns, a widower who writes a weekly advice column for the local newspaper. In the movie, Dan takes his three young daughters to a family gathering at his quirky parents’ rustic, beautiful, well-lived-in home on the shore of Rhode Island. […]
New $33 million YMCA opens Nov. 30
The new downtown YMCA opens Nov. 30 in the heart of the medical district. It will be an inviting place to work out, whether you exercise individually, participate in fitness classes or enjoy group sports. The new Y is not only a state-of-the-art fitness center, but a community asset serving youth, adults and community organizations. […]
