59° A Few Clouds
Breaking News
Family Sues Connecticut Resort After Springfield Teen’s Drowning, Alleges Pool Overcrowding Family Sues Connecticut Resort After Springfield Teen’s Drowning, Alleges Pool Overcrowding Family Sues Connecticut Resort After Springfield Teen’s Drowning, Alleges Pool Overcrowding
Family Sues Connecticut Resort After Springfield Teen’s Drowning, Alleges Pool Overcrowding The family of a 14-year-old Massachusetts student who drowned during an end-of-year school field trip in Connecticut has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the resort’s management company and property owner. The lawsuit alleges negligence and recklessness in connection with the June 10 death of E’Mari Marshall-Woodard, of Springfield, and seeks damages, including punitive damages. According to the complaint filed last week, more than 800 students from several school districts visited the High Meadow Resort in Granby as part of a day camp.  The lawsuit alleges that more than 150 st…

SHARE

by Josh Lanier

Get Daily Voice
In
Your Inbox

Get important news about your town as it happens.

Your Daily Voice Site

Breaking News
21-Year-Old Westfield Woman Killed In Easthampton Crash Had 'Stunning, Contagious Smile' 21-Year-Old Westfield Woman Killed In Easthampton Crash Had 'Stunning, Contagious Smile' 21-Year-Old Westfield Woman Killed In Easthampton Crash Had 'Stunning, Contagious Smile'
21-Year-Old Westfield Woman Killed In Easthampton Crash Had 'Stunning, Contagious Smile' Authorities have identified a 21-year-old Western Massachusetts woman who was killed when the car she was riding in struck a guardrail and came to rest in a backyard last week. Lexani Velazquez, of Westfield, was killed in the crash Friday, Oct. 2, around 1:15 a.m. near the rotary at Park Street and South Street in Easthampton, according to the Northwestern District Attorney's Office.  Velazquez was a passenger in the vehicle, which was traveling on Park Street when it struck the guardrail before coming to rest in a home's backyard, according to the preliminary investigation. The driv…

SHARE

by Josh Lanier
Breaking News
Hadley Man Admits Selling Russian Plutonium, Mailing It From South Hadley Home: Feds Hadley Man Admits Selling Russian Plutonium, Mailing It From South Hadley Home: Feds Hadley Man Admits Selling Russian Plutonium, Mailing It From South Hadley Home: Feds
Hadley Man Admits Selling Russian Plutonium, Mailing It From South Hadley Home: Feds A convicted Massachusetts felon has admitted to importing plutonium from Russia and mailing the highly radioactive material to dozens of buyers through a business he ran from a South Hadley home, authorities said. Police also found child sexual abuse material at his home. Jacob D. Miller, 44, of Hadley, pleaded guilty to possession of ammunition and explosives, importing nuclear material without authorization, mailing hazardous materials, and possessing child sexual abuse material, the US Attorney for the District of Massachusetts said on Monday, Oct. 5. Miller has remained in fed…

SHARE

by Josh Lanier
On Your Side
KFC Shrinks Famous Bucket With New $3.49 Snack Option KFC Shrinks Famous Bucket With New $3.49 Snack Option KFC Shrinks Famous Bucket With New $3.49 Snack Option
KFC Shrinks Famous Bucket With New $3.49 Snack Option KFC is taking its famous bucket in a much smaller direction with a new snack-sized option. The fast-food chain launched Go Buckets on Monday, Oct. 5. The new menu item starts at $3.49 and combines chicken with either fries or wedges. Customers can choose four nuggets, two wings, or one tender. KFC said the six available combinations contain between 16 and 18 grams of protein. Unlike the chain's traditional family-sized bucket, the new version is small enough to hold in one hand and is shaped to fit in a standard car cupholder. "People want food to fit into their day, not the other way aro…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
On Your Side
Fastest Drive-Thrus, Best Experiences Ranked In New Study: See Who's On Top Fastest Drive-Thrus, Best Experiences Ranked In New Study: See Who's On Top Fastest Drive-Thrus, Best Experiences Ranked In New Study: See Who's On Top
Fastest Drive-Thrus, Best Experiences Ranked In New Study: See Who's On Top Starbucks has beaten out fast-food giants for the nation's best drive-thru experience, according to a new study. Intouch Insight released its 26th Annual Drive-Thru Study on Thursday, Oct. 1. Starbucks was ranked No. 1 overall, posting a 99% customer satisfaction rate. The study was based on 2,145 mystery-shopper visits, with 165 stops conducted at each of the 13 chains measured nationwide between June and July. Shoppers visited at different times of day and on different days of the week to measure performance under varying conditions. Intouch Insight measured how satisfied shoppers w…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker

Your Community

Your Community
MA Retirement Costs Revealed In New Nationwide Ranking MA Retirement Costs Revealed In New Nationwide Ranking MA Retirement Costs Revealed In New Nationwide Ranking
MA Retirement Costs Revealed In New Nationwide Ranking Retirees in several Northeast states face some of the highest costs in the country, according to a new study. Retirement Living released its 2026 list of the most affordable states to retire, comparing all 50 states based on housing costs, everyday expenses, and tax-friendliness. The study looked at median rent for a one-bedroom home, median home sale prices, grocery spending, gas prices, and average Medicare Advantage premiums. Researchers also considered whether states tax Social Security benefits, along with income and property tax rates. "Affordability plays a major role in retire…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
Your Community
These MA Communities Rank Among Nation's Best Small Cities: New Study These MA Communities Rank Among Nation's Best Small Cities: New Study These MA Communities Rank Among Nation's Best Small Cities: New Study
These MA Communities Rank Among Nation's Best Small Cities: New Study Several Northeast communities are among the best small cities to live in the US, according to a new study. WalletHub released its 2026 Best Small Cities in America ranking on Tuesday, Sept. 29. The list compared 1,318 cities with populations between 25,000 and 100,000 using 45 measures of livability. The personal finance website based its rankings on five main categories: affordability, economic health, education and health, quality of life, and safety. Each category accounted for 20 points in a city's overall score. The Boston suburb of Lexington, Massachusetts, took the top spot nat…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
Content Partner
Introducing Daily Voice Events! Introducing Daily Voice Events! Introducing Daily Voice Events!
Introducing Daily Voice Events! There’s always something happening in your community. Now, Daily Voice makes it easier to find it. With Daily Voice Events, you can discover hundreds of events happening near you, from festivals and family activities to live music, fundraisers, community gatherings and more. Hosting an event of your own? Post it for free and get it in front of thousands of local readers looking for things to do in their area. Whether you’re looking for something to do or want to spread the word about an event, Daily Voice Events helps you connect with your community. Click here to explore local events or …

SHARE

by Daily Voice

Breaking News

Breaking News
PA Measles Outbreak Tops 1,000, Highest In US, 4 Vaccinated Residents Among Infected PA Measles Outbreak Tops 1,000, Highest In US, 4 Vaccinated Residents Among Infected PA Measles Outbreak Tops 1,000, Highest In US, 4 Vaccinated Residents Among Infected
PA Measles Outbreak Tops 1,000, Highest In US, 4 Vaccinated Residents Among Infected Pennsylvania’s measles outbreak has surpassed 1,000 confirmed cases and now includes five deaths, state health officials announced Monday, Oct. 5. The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported 1,004 cases across 39 counties so far in 2026 — up 27 cases since Friday, Oct. 2. There have been 198 hospitalizations tied to the outbreak, according to the department. Nearly 20 percent of people identified by the state with measles have been hospitalized. The new numbers come less than a month after the statewide total stood at 676 cases in 37 counties, with 124 hospitalizations and two measles-a…

SHARE

by Jillian Pikora
Breaking News
Fifth Measles Death Reported In US As Outbreak Tops 1,000 Cases Fifth Measles Death Reported In US As Outbreak Tops 1,000 Cases Fifth Measles Death Reported In US As Outbreak Tops 1,000 Cases
Fifth Measles Death Reported In US As Outbreak Tops 1,000 Cases A fifth measles-associated death has been confirmed in Pennsylvania as the Commonwealth’s outbreak surpassed 1,000 cases across 39 counties, health officials said. An unvaccinated Lancaster County resident with confirmed measles died, the Pennsylvania Department of Health announced Wednesday, Sept. 30. The department did not release the person’s age, sex, or other identifying details. The death is the fifth Pennsylvania resident to meet the state’s measles-associated death definition this year, officials said. As of Monday, Oct. 5, Pennsylvania had confirmed 1,004 measles cases and 198 hos…

SHARE

by Jillian Pikora
Breaking News
Dead Passengers, Fake Drivers: NJ Woman, Colombian Lover's $13M Scheme Unravels Dead Passengers, Fake Drivers: NJ Woman, Colombian Lover's $13M Scheme Unravels Dead Passengers, Fake Drivers: NJ Woman, Colombian Lover's $13M Scheme Unravels
Dead Passengers, Fake Drivers: NJ Woman, Colombian Lover's $13M Scheme Unravels Some of the passengers were dead. Some of the drivers had never driven a car. But a New Jersey woman and her Colombian lover apparently had no trouble taking taxpayers for a ride. For years, prosecutors say, Jael Watts, 45, of Alloway, operated Pearl Transit Corporation, a New Jersey-based company that purported to have drivers scattered across the country giving rides to elderly and disabled people while also conducting outreach for homeless Americans. Watts and Luis Pino-Copete, 42, of Bogota, Colombia, were convicted following a multi-week federal trial in Utica of orchestrating a spraw…

SHARE

by Zak Failla
Breaking News
Fashion CEO, Wife Found Shot Dead Outside California Residence Fashion CEO, Wife Found Shot Dead Outside California Residence Fashion CEO, Wife Found Shot Dead Outside California Residence
Fashion CEO, Wife Found Shot Dead Outside California Residence A fashion company CEO and his wife were found shot dead outside their California home, according to multiple reports. Neighbors identified the couple as Bryan and Michelle Walker, who built the women’s clothing brand, Bryn Walker.  They were found outside their home on Panoramic Way in Oakland, California, on Friday, Oct. 2, The Berkeley Scanner reported. Police had not publicly released their names when the Scanner published its report. Michelle was 63. Reports differed on Bryan’s age. A neighbor who heard gunfire discovered the couple around 10:45 a.m., according to the Scanner, ci…

SHARE

by Joe Lombardi
Breaking News
Fake Federal Agents Steal $6.5M In National Fraud; Victims Didn't Know They Were Scammed Fake Federal Agents Steal $6.5M In National Fraud; Victims Didn't Know They Were Scammed Fake Federal Agents Steal $6.5M In National Fraud; Victims Didn't Know They Were Scammed
Fake Federal Agents Steal $6.5M In National Fraud; Victims Didn't Know They Were Scammed Two more victims of a nationwide gold scam involving fake federal agents had no idea they had been swindled until troopers contacted them, Pennsylvania State Police announced on Friday, Oct. 2. The scheme has been linked to approximately $6.5 million in losses across the country, with victims identified in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Washington State, according to police. The releases do not say whether the newly detailed losses are already included in that figure. “There are victims that are completely unaware that they are even victims,” Trooper Lauren Lesher wrote in an email to Daily Vo…

SHARE

by Jillian Pikora

Jobs

On Your Side

On Your Side
Krispy Kreme's New Halloween Doughnut Lineup Features Looney Tunes Favorites Krispy Kreme's New Halloween Doughnut Lineup Features Looney Tunes Favorites Krispy Kreme's New Halloween Doughnut Lineup Features Looney Tunes Favorites
Krispy Kreme's New Halloween Doughnut Lineup Features Looney Tunes Favorites Krispy Kreme is teaming up with Looney Tunes for a new Halloween collection featuring the classic cartoon characters. The doughnut chain unveiled the limited-time Looney Tunes Halloween Collection in a news release on Monday, Oct. 5. The treats will debut at participating shops nationwide on Tuesday, Oct. 6. The lineup marks the first time the iconic animation franchise has appeared on Krispy Kreme doughnuts. "Looney Tunes characters have entertained generations of fans with their fun, laughter, and mischief, making them a perfect match for Krispy Kreme this Halloween," said…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
On Your Side
Dr Pepper, 7UP Reveal New Twists On Classic Sodas: See What's Coming Dr Pepper, 7UP Reveal New Twists On Classic Sodas: See What's Coming Dr Pepper, 7UP Reveal New Twists On Classic Sodas: See What's Coming
Dr Pepper, 7UP Reveal New Twists On Classic Sodas: See What's Coming Dr Pepper and 7UP are adding new twists to some familiar flavors. Keurig Dr Pepper announced Dr Pepper Ice Cream Float and 7UP Miami Vice in a news release on Monday, Oct. 5. The company unveiled its upcoming beverage lineup one day before the start of the 2026 National Association of Convenience Stores Show in Las Vegas. Dr Pepper Ice Cream Float blends the soda's signature 23 flavors with a vanilla ice cream flavor and notes of caramel and butterscotch. The new flavor will launch nationwide as a permanent offering in February 2027. The beverage will be available in regular…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
On Your Side
Most Trendy, Spooky Costumes Of 2026 Revealed By Spirit Halloween Most Trendy, Spooky Costumes Of 2026 Revealed By Spirit Halloween Most Trendy, Spooky Costumes Of 2026 Revealed By Spirit Halloween
Most Trendy, Spooky Costumes Of 2026 Revealed By Spirit Halloween Superheroes, Toy Story characters, and video game favorites are expected to be among the most popular Halloween costumes in 2026. Spirit Halloween released its annual costume trends on Thursday, Oct. 1. The Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey-based retailer said it follows trends throughout the year to see what will be the most popular costumes. The company especially looks at pop-culture categories like TV, movies, gaming, social media, and nostalgia. "People often ask how we predict Halloween trends," executive vice president Kym Sarkos said in a news release. "The realit…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
On Your Side
Millions Who Paid ATM Fees Could Get Cash In $167.5M Settlement: See If You Qualify Millions Who Paid ATM Fees Could Get Cash In $167.5M Settlement: See If You Qualify Millions Who Paid ATM Fees Could Get Cash In $167.5M Settlement: See If You Qualify
Millions Who Paid ATM Fees Could Get Cash In $167.5M Settlement: See If You Qualify Millions of Americans who paid fees to withdraw cash from certain ATMs could qualify for payouts in a $167.5 million Mastercard and Visa settlement. The credit card companies agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit accusing the payment networks of violating antitrust laws by preventing independent ATM operators from charging lower fees when transactions could be processed through cheaper competing networks. Consumers may qualify if they paid an ATM surcharge or access fee to withdraw cash from a deposit account at an independent ATM in the US between Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2007, and …

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
On Your Side
Fire Risks Spark Recalls Of Popular Hand Warmers: See Which Brands Fire Risks Spark Recalls Of Popular Hand Warmers: See Which Brands Fire Risks Spark Recalls Of Popular Hand Warmers: See Which Brands
Fire Risks Spark Recalls Of Popular Hand Warmers: See Which Brands More than 82,000 rechargeable hand warmers are being recalled because their lithium-ion batteries can overheat and catch fire. Kobayashi Consumer Products recalled about 77,000 HotHands rechargeable hand warmers, while Gobi Heat recalled about 5,500 of its rechargeable hand warmers, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced on Thursday, Oct. 1. About 47 additional Gobi Heat warmers were sold in Canada. The lithium-ion batteries and electrical components in both products can overheat and ignite, posing fire and burn hazards. The recalled HotHands warmers are white with orange accents…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker

On Your Side

On Your Side
Krispy Kreme's New Halloween Doughnut Lineup Features Looney Tunes Favorites Krispy Kreme's New Halloween Doughnut Lineup Features Looney Tunes Favorites Krispy Kreme's New Halloween Doughnut Lineup Features Looney Tunes Favorites
Krispy Kreme's New Halloween Doughnut Lineup Features Looney Tunes Favorites Krispy Kreme is teaming up with Looney Tunes for a new Halloween collection featuring the classic cartoon characters. The doughnut chain unveiled the limited-time Looney Tunes Halloween Collection in a news release on Monday, Oct. 5. The treats will debut at participating shops nationwide on Tuesday, Oct. 6. The lineup marks the first time the iconic animation franchise has appeared on Krispy Kreme doughnuts. "Looney Tunes characters have entertained generations of fans with their fun, laughter, and mischief, making them a perfect match for Krispy Kreme this Halloween," said…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
On Your Side
Dr Pepper, 7UP Reveal New Twists On Classic Sodas: See What's Coming Dr Pepper, 7UP Reveal New Twists On Classic Sodas: See What's Coming Dr Pepper, 7UP Reveal New Twists On Classic Sodas: See What's Coming
Dr Pepper, 7UP Reveal New Twists On Classic Sodas: See What's Coming Dr Pepper and 7UP are adding new twists to some familiar flavors. Keurig Dr Pepper announced Dr Pepper Ice Cream Float and 7UP Miami Vice in a news release on Monday, Oct. 5. The company unveiled its upcoming beverage lineup one day before the start of the 2026 National Association of Convenience Stores Show in Las Vegas. Dr Pepper Ice Cream Float blends the soda's signature 23 flavors with a vanilla ice cream flavor and notes of caramel and butterscotch. The new flavor will launch nationwide as a permanent offering in February 2027. The beverage will be available in regular…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
On Your Side
Most Trendy, Spooky Costumes Of 2026 Revealed By Spirit Halloween Most Trendy, Spooky Costumes Of 2026 Revealed By Spirit Halloween Most Trendy, Spooky Costumes Of 2026 Revealed By Spirit Halloween
Most Trendy, Spooky Costumes Of 2026 Revealed By Spirit Halloween Superheroes, Toy Story characters, and video game favorites are expected to be among the most popular Halloween costumes in 2026. Spirit Halloween released its annual costume trends on Thursday, Oct. 1. The Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey-based retailer said it follows trends throughout the year to see what will be the most popular costumes. The company especially looks at pop-culture categories like TV, movies, gaming, social media, and nostalgia. "People often ask how we predict Halloween trends," executive vice president Kym Sarkos said in a news release. "The realit…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
On Your Side
Millions Who Paid ATM Fees Could Get Cash In $167.5M Settlement: See If You Qualify Millions Who Paid ATM Fees Could Get Cash In $167.5M Settlement: See If You Qualify Millions Who Paid ATM Fees Could Get Cash In $167.5M Settlement: See If You Qualify
Millions Who Paid ATM Fees Could Get Cash In $167.5M Settlement: See If You Qualify Millions of Americans who paid fees to withdraw cash from certain ATMs could qualify for payouts in a $167.5 million Mastercard and Visa settlement. The credit card companies agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit accusing the payment networks of violating antitrust laws by preventing independent ATM operators from charging lower fees when transactions could be processed through cheaper competing networks. Consumers may qualify if they paid an ATM surcharge or access fee to withdraw cash from a deposit account at an independent ATM in the US between Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2007, and …

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
On Your Side
Fire Risks Spark Recalls Of Popular Hand Warmers: See Which Brands Fire Risks Spark Recalls Of Popular Hand Warmers: See Which Brands Fire Risks Spark Recalls Of Popular Hand Warmers: See Which Brands
Fire Risks Spark Recalls Of Popular Hand Warmers: See Which Brands More than 82,000 rechargeable hand warmers are being recalled because their lithium-ion batteries can overheat and catch fire. Kobayashi Consumer Products recalled about 77,000 HotHands rechargeable hand warmers, while Gobi Heat recalled about 5,500 of its rechargeable hand warmers, the Consumer Product Safety Commission announced on Thursday, Oct. 1. About 47 additional Gobi Heat warmers were sold in Canada. The lithium-ion batteries and electrical components in both products can overheat and ignite, posing fire and burn hazards. The recalled HotHands warmers are white with orange accents…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker

National Interest

National Interest
Gatorade Recall Spans 37 States: Check Your Bottles Gatorade Recall Spans 37 States: Check Your Bottles Gatorade Recall Spans 37 States: Check Your Bottles
Gatorade Recall Spans 37 States: Check Your Bottles More than 122,000 cases of Gatorade are being recalled, giving shoppers across dozens of states a reason to check their bottles. PepsiCo Inc. is recalling 122,021 cases of 28-ounce Gatorade because they contain undeclared Yellow No. 5 and/or Yellow No. 6, according to the FDA enforcement report. The New York-based company is located in Purchase, in Westchester County. The recall covers four varieties: Gatorade Lemon Lime, Gatorade Lemon Lime Zero, Gatorade Orange, and Gatorade Orange Zero. The drinks were distributed in 37 states, including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Florida, Cal…

SHARE

by Joe Lombardi
National Interest
Karoline Leavitt Lands New Fox News Role After Leaving Trump's White House Karoline Leavitt Lands New Fox News Role After Leaving Trump's White House Karoline Leavitt Lands New Fox News Role After Leaving Trump's White House
Karoline Leavitt Lands New Fox News Role After Leaving Trump's White House Former White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has revealed her next major role after leaving President Donald Trump's administration. Leavitt will join Fox News as an on-air contributor, The New York Times reported on Monday, Oct. 5. The 29-year-old is expected to appear on programs across the conservative network, including both news and opinion shows. The Atkinson, New Hampshire, native is expected to begin her Fox News tenure on Sunday, Nov. 1. "Karoline's firsthand experience in the White House and on the presidential campaign trail gives her a distinct understanding of…

SHARE

by Chris Spiker
National Interest
Dennis Hastert Dies: Record Speakership Overshadowed By Teen Sexual Abuse Scandal Dennis Hastert Dies: Record Speakership Overshadowed By Teen Sexual Abuse Scandal Dennis Hastert Dies: Record Speakership Overshadowed By Teen Sexual Abuse Scandal
Dennis Hastert Dies: Record Speakership Overshadowed By Teen Sexual Abuse Scandal A former House speaker whose Washington career ended in disgrace has died, leaving a legacy overshadowed by the secrets he tried to bury. Dennis Hastert was 84. Authorities in Kendall County, Illinois, confirmed Monday, Oct. 5, that he died at home over the weekend from natural causes. The Illinois Republican served as speaker from 1999 to 2007, becoming the longest-serving Republican in the role. His criminal downfall came years after he left Congress. Hastert pleaded guilty in 2015 to illegally structuring cash withdrawals to evade federal reporting requirements. US District Judge Thoma…

SHARE

by Joe Lombardi
National Interest
Nationwide Recall: Salmonella Concerns Trigger Shopper Warning Nationwide Recall: Salmonella Concerns Trigger Shopper Warning Nationwide Recall: Salmonella Concerns Trigger Shopper Warning
Nationwide Recall: Salmonella Concerns Trigger Shopper Warning Salmonella concerns have triggered a nationwide recall of a vegetable-growing product, with buyers urged to toss it and seek refunds. EAK Distribution LLC, based in Casper, Wyoming, is recalling Home Grown Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli Seeds, Heirloom, in 8-ounce packages, according to the company announcement posted on the FDA website. The seeds were sold through Amazon to consumers nationwide between Thursday, Aug. 20, and Friday, Sept. 18. The recalled product comes in a cream-colored pouch with UPC 850056627443. Production lot code AUG172026 is embossed on the top seal. Consumers…

SHARE

by Joe Lombardi
National Interest
Early Flu Concerns Grow As Activity Climbs Across Parts Of US Early Flu Concerns Grow As Activity Climbs Across Parts Of US Early Flu Concerns Grow As Activity Climbs Across Parts Of US
Early Flu Concerns Grow As Activity Climbs Across Parts Of US Flu activity is picking up as fall gets underway, putting this year’s protection timing in focus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says flu activity remains low nationally but is increasing. Its FluView report for the week ending Saturday, Sept. 26, provides a snapshot of that trend. Clinical laboratories reported that 3.4 percent of tested respiratory specimens were positive for influenza. Flu diagnoses accounted for 0.4 percent of emergency department visits in a separate surveillance system. Those figures show flu is circulating, but they do not establish that a widespread…

SHARE

by Joe Lombardi