Hadley officials face challenges in switching insurance providers

Question 5 explained: What Massachusetts’ tax revenue cap change would mean for refunds and the budget

Voters will decide on Nov. 3 whether to change the formula Massachusetts uses to cap state tax revenue. Supporters of Question 5 say it would return money to taxpayers through refunds, while opponents contend it would lead to cuts in vital state programs. A “yes” vote would change how the state calculates its tax-revenue limit […]

Guest columnist Dick Evans: Weed, dogs and responsibility

An anonymous, out-of-state funder has brought us Question 8 on next month’s ballot. If passed, it would repeal the regulatory and tax system that Massachusetts voters approved 10 years ago for non-medical cannabis. In practical terms, Question 8 is not a technical adjustment. It is a full-scale reversal of the commonwealth’s framework for cannabis commerce. […]

Amid bus driver shortage, Amherst schools eye reduction of morning stops

AMHERST — With late buses causing students to miss class time and breakfast, the Amherst, Pelham and Amherst-Pelham Regional schools are developing a revised transportation plan that will likely scale back the number of morning stops. The district already faces a Problem Resolution System complaint with the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education over […]

Former Northampton rabbi detained by Israeli police during olive harvest in West Bank

NORTHAMPTON — Rabbi Justin David, who formerly led Congregation B’nai Israel in Northampton, said he was detained by the Israeli police last Wednesday while volunteering for an olive harvest at a West Bank grove. The Northampton resident posted a statement on Facebook saying he was held with dozens of other rabbis and international volunteers, including […]

Senior class leading Smith College women's volleyball to another historic season

NORTHAMPTON — On Friday, Smith College women’s volleyball got a look at what it’s going to take if they want to make a long run in the NCAA Tournament in November. The Bears hosted their toughest opponent of the season to date, Wesleyan, in a match that went the full five sets in its Pride […]