South County Notebook: Oct. 31, 2025

With local efforts underway, Massachusetts begins kratom crackdown

Deerfield joined other Massachusetts municipalities in banning kratom products, just days before an emergency order came from the state's Department of Public Health.

My Turn: But what can I do?

I have received a great deal of encouragement from readers of the My Turn columns I have written. The response I hear most often is, “Keep them coming.” People tell me that the columns give voice to concerns they already carry but have struggled to express. Seeing those thoughts in print reminds them that they are not […]

Greenfield School Committee considers disbanding new facilities advisory group

Greenfield School Committee members are debating whether to disband the Long-term Facilities Use Advisory Committee due to concerns over excessive meetings.

Healey wades into Quabbin community water issues

Gov. Maura Healey issued a letter to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority urging greater recognition and support for Quabbin watershed communities facing water shortages and infrastructure challenges.

Seeking further research and community involvement, Greenfield School Committee rejects AI policy changes

The Greenfield School Committee voted against updating its Empowered Digital Use Policy to regulate artificial intelligence due to a lack of sufficient information among members.