North County Notebook: March 20, 2026

Smith College remembers Gloria Steinem, the alumna who called campus her 'enormous refuge'

For Gloria Steinem, a renowned feminist activist, organizer, reporter and author, Smith College wasn’t just a school — it was “an enormous refuge.” “It was the first time that I felt free,” she said in a 2007 oral history. Steinem’s alma mater gave her mental and physical distance from childhood years spent taking care of […]

Sounds Local: Recent History brings Weezer’s ‘Blue Album’ to the Shea

The Northampton-based band Recent History is scheduled to perform Weezer's Blue Album in its entirety at the Shea Theater Arts Center in Turners Falls on Friday, Sept. 11.

Pioneer introduces Innovation Center, new teachers in 2026-2027 school year

The Pioneer Valley Regional School District has introduced several new initiatives for the 2026-2027 school year, including an Innovation Center, eight new teachers and a renewed focus on student writing.

'An opportunity to celebrate New Salem': 2026 Old Home Day set for Saturday

New Salem is scheduled to host its Old Home Day celebration on Saturday, Sept. 12.

Arts Briefs: Greenfield author talk, fundraising book sale and more

Five College New Music Festival returns The Five College New Music Festival will return Sept. 11 to Sept. 13 for its ninth biennial edition at Bezanson Recital Hall at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. This year’s festival, themed “Music Without Royalties,” will feature four free performances of new and recent works by 18 composers, performed […]