West County Notebook: Nov. 4, 2026

Ensuring 'rural communities have a voice': Northfield resident serving on state's first Family Advisory Council

Northfield resident Tierney Sodders was appointed to Gov. Maura Healey's 20-member Family Advisory Council for Early Education and Care to represent the needs of rural western Massachusetts families.

Pushback: Tech school vote aftermath a day late and $56M short

On Oct. 6, I voted “no” on the Franklin County Technical School (FCTS) — not because I disparage education — but because our city is carrying major debt. The Greenfield City Council met with the FCTS superintendent nine months ago. Members were told that Greenfield had 129 students at the Tech — 22% of total […]

Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts celebrates 35 years

Community members gathered at Quonquont Farm to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts and discuss its ongoing impact on education, the arts and local nonprofits.

My Turn: From regulation to reality: next steps for nursing home oversight

Massachusetts took a critical step in October: the Public Health Council approved comprehensive amendments to long-term care regulations that significantly expand DPH’s oversight authority over nursing homes. Combined with DPH’s notice of intent to revoke Regal Care licenses, the message is unmistakable — Massachusetts is serious about protecting nursing home residents from inadequate care and […]

Stephen Grant

<html><head></head><body>Stephen Grant<br /><br />Hawley, MA - Stephen K. Grant passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by the love of his family, on Oct. 29, 2026.<br /><br />Steve was born on May 5, 1943 in Norwood, Massachusetts, to Edward a ...