Area Briefs: PVPC extends public comments for its Safe Streets report

Guest columnist Richard Szlosek: The overlooked legacy of Stephen Mizwa

As an aging third generation Polish American resident of Northampton, I sense that appreciation of that heritage is on the wane in the public consciousness. October is Polish Heritage Month but I suspect it will be little noted. Pulaski Day is on Oct. 12, but I am sure the coverage for Indigenous American Day will overshadow it. Casimir Pulaski gave his life fighting for American independence at the Battle of Savannah during the Revolutionary War. He is honored throughout the nation with towns and counties named for him. Nor was Pulaski the only Pole to risk his life; at least 1,000 […]

'I am darn lucky': Meet new Academy of Music executive director Ray Dumont

Ray Dumont doesn’t like to say that he has to go to work. He says he gets to go to work. The new executive director at the Academy of Music in Northampton stepped into the role on July 1, replacing outgoing executive director Debra J’Anthony, who retired after 18 years in the position. “I literally […]

Easthampton City Council raises licensing clerk pay after $300 cut prompted resignation

EASTHAMPTON — Assistant to the Mayor Evan LeBeau has resumed his part-time role as clerk of the Licensing Board, a post he had resigned, after the City Council raised the position’s pay. LeBeau resigned from the licensing clerk role after the council discussed its compensation at its June 24 meeting, when the fiscal 2027 budget […]

South Hadley assistant town administrator departs after three years

SOUTH HADLEY — The town’s assistant town administrator and human resources director left the position Friday after three years in the role. At the Select Board meeting on Tuesday, Chuck Romboletti expressed his gratitude for South Hadley staff and leadership. He is taking a job as director of labor relations at Holyoke Community College after […]

Around Amherst: Black Business Association to provide microgrants

AMHERST — In marking a decade in existence, the Black Business Association of Amherst Area is supporting existing and aspiring entrepreneurs through microgrant funds for the first time. After organizing the town’s Juneteenth Jubilee as part of its 10-year anniversary, the business organization is accepting applications to support small businesses, with a Sept. 30 deadline. […]