Communication is literally the cornerstone of what we do here. But it's those big gestures of connection that really grab us.

Take Little Amal, whose stature and mission are nothing of the sort. The 12ft tall puppet walks the world bringing humanity and attention to the refugee crisis, especially the plight of children within it. Currently she and her team are on a 6,000 mile journey across the United States, and she's making two stops in Western Mass. We bring in Carlos Uriona of Double Edge Theater and Larry Spotted Crow Mann from Ohketeau Cultural Center who have collaborated to bring that first stop to Ashfield on Sunday, September 10th. Together they direct our attention to how Amal's journey relates to a wealth of things in the four counties, and how conversation about these connections can lead to action.

And that communication can be seen in an art event right here in Springfield. Originally started to just improve and beautify their neighborhood, the Mattoon St. Arts Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary this year over the course of 2 days. It's grown from its humble beginnings to a 90+vendor event, and continues to bring more people from the neighborhood and beyond together. We chat with organizers Jason Alves, Bob McCarroll, and Freya Bromwich about the many things one can get up to just behind the Springfield Museums on September 9th & 10th.

** a quick correction: We incorrectly gave the date for Little Amal’s visit to Ashfield during our interview. It will take place on *Sunday Sept. 10th.** Apologies for the discrepancy.*