Amherst, others do well on MCAS

Amherst regional school agreement headed for major review

AMHERST — A review panel will examine representation on the Regional School Committee, whether Amherst sixth graders could join the regional school system and how each town’s annual assessment is calculated, as Amherst, Pelham, Shutesbury and Leverett prepare to revisit their regional agreement. Town, school and finance officials from the four towns met last Saturday […]

Speaking of Nature: The New England Aster — a jewel of autumn

Last week we reached that annual mile marker where the length of the day is the same as that of the night. Known as the autumnal equinox, this is a moment so brief that we generally miss it. I think that everyone has noticed how short the days are becoming, but we still have a […]

Former VP Al Gore: A clean Earth is within world’s grasp even as climate dangers accelerate

NEW YORK (AP) — Longtime climate warrior Al Gore sees victory within Earth’s grasp. But he worries that it could still slip through humanity’s fingers. “While we’re in grave danger, I think there is a possibility that 2026 will be looked back upon in the history books as the beginning of a positive tipping point,” […]

Guest columnist Alan Tabin: Sell, move or renovate? Start with good questions

When people talk about today’s western Massachusetts real estate market, the conversation usually turns to interest rates, home prices, and the shortage of available properties. Those things certainly matter. But after more than 40 years in real estate, building, and property investment, I believe many homeowners are facing a much more personal question: I know […]

Alan Robinson

Alan Robinson<br /><br />Hadley, MA - Alan James Robinson a beloved brother uncle and cousin and friend to many passed away on Sunday September 6, 2026 after fighting a long and hard battle with cancer. Alan was a wildlife art ...