Shows
Montague Reporter PodcastIce cream and other topics: towns grapple with health insurance increase, Wendell budget & batteries, cop dramaAfter an ode to ice cream and popsicles, Sarah and Mike cover a few irksome news items of the summer. They discuss the potential impacts of a regional health insurer’s sudden rate increase and the results of a recent tax vote in Wendell, as well as a pending solary array development in that town. They then give a very humane, un-sensationalized recap of recent churn in the Montague Police Department. Plus, school merger fantasies and BULBS BULBS BULBS! Read, support, and check out the fall bulb fundraiser at https://montaguereporter.org/
2025-08-1946 minMontague Reporter PodcastSummer Catch-up: events calendar highlights, river stories, and new batteryRiver-related news has dominated the pages of the Montague Reporter so far this summer. Mike and Sarah discuss the recent drawdown of the Turners Falls dam, the vintage graffiti it revealed, and a new tax deal negotiated between the town and First Light Power. Plus, an update on a battery storage facility approved to be built outside Judd Wire. But first, learn how you and your little ones can fit fecal education and a Kate Bush flash mob workshop into one fun-filled day next week!Subscribe to the Montague Reporter! https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2025-07-2340 minMontague Reporter PodcastLate Spring Sampler Platter: Pizza! Turnovers! Asparagus! and much more!Catching up with the cornucopia of late spring news, Sarah and Mike offer a smorgasbord of the major stories that have been reported since mid-May. They cover the turnover of both the Gill-Montague School District’s current superintendent and its graduating high school seniors, as well as write-in candidate Marina Goldman’s last-minute victory in the Montague selectboard election. Other topics include the Turners Falls Thunder’s victory in the state softball championship, Ben Gagnon’s series of articles on local food producers, and the opening of a new playground in Montague Center.Support the Mont...
2025-06-2536 minMontague Reporter PodcastEBT Theft; Annual Town Meetings; AmeriCorps CutsIn a sleeper hit of a 100th episode (!), Sarah and Mike debrief some heavy losses suffered by both SNAP recipients and youth service workers in Franklin County, and recap the highlights of annual town meeting season. Plus Mike finally reveals his favorite village in the town of Montague-- his answer will shock you!Subscribe to the Montague Reporter newspaper at https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2025-05-2142 minMontague Reporter PodcastTrees, Trees, Trees; WQCs; and a totally non-sensational non sequitur about the Montague PDSarah and Mike discuss several arboreal stories, as well as the denouement of the First Light hydroelectric relicensing saga, and a candidate's forum hosted by the Montague Reporter. Plus, Mike recaps a juicy scoop from the April 10th edition.Subscribe to the Montague Reporter at https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2025-04-3039 minMontague Reporter PodcastUpdates and uncertainties, Big Picture interview, and Sarah is backSarah is back as host, and Mike joins her to discuss what has changed at the newspaper in the last few months, along with updates on the Falls Farm story, local impacts of federal funding uncertainty, and the latest Big Picture interview with the managing attorney at Community Legal Aid.If you want to save money on your weekly newspaper purchase, consider subscribing to the newspaper at https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2025-04-0135 minMontague Reporter PodcastGMRSD drama, downtown dreams, and day tripsMike and Stella (sitting in for Sarah, who gave birth to a baby boy!) discuss a couple of particularly hot Gill-Montague school committee meetings, a proposal for a new full-time coordinator for three downtowns that met lukewarm reception, and a super cool series of reports on winter day trips.
Got something to Ask the Editor about? Email podcast@montaguereporter.org and have your question featured on the next episode!
2025-01-1940 minMontague Reporter PodcastCommunity health care comes to Montague, Kittredge estate housing non-proposals, and Sarah's big news!Podcast editor Stella Silbert joins Sarah and Mike as a co-host this week to discuss the new Community Health Center of Franklin County location in Montague City and possible housing development scenarios for the Kittredge estate in Leverett. Plus, Sarah makes an exciting announcement! We end with a gush session over this year's special wrapping paper edition (available now for purchase at https://montaguereporter.org/ and in local stores).
Thanks for listening! Email podcast@montaguereporter.org to submit an "Ask the Editor" question for Mike to answer on a future episode!
2024-12-0941 minMontague Reporter PodcastAn original MR investigation, MCSM becomes Heartwing Center, updates on Leisure WoodsIn this pre-election episode, Sarah and Mike discuss an investigation reported by Sarah Robertson about a “humming” noise that many residents in Wendell have reported hearing. Plus, a social services organization in Montague renames itself to the Heartwing Center, and an update on the continuing story of Leisure Woods’ owners attempt to increase lot rent.
Thank you for listening! Do you have an Ask the Editor question to submit? Reach out to podcast@montaguereporter.org
2024-11-0438 minMontague Reporter PodcastUpdates on Montague libraries, Orange rent control board decision, and treasure hunt in WendellMike Jackson pays tribute to Chris Sawyer-Lauçanno, the Poetry Page editor who died on October 3. Then Sarah and Mike discuss the interview Mike did with Caitlin Kelley, the director of Montague Public Libraries (there are 3 of them). The Rent Control Board in Orange approved an increase in lot rental rates, but by less than the amount originally requested by the owners. And a treasure hunt that several Montague Reporter community members participated in ends with someone finding treasure in Wendell State Forest.
Ask the editor questions: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Thank you fo...
2024-10-0740 minMontague Reporter PodcastStories that straddle town linesMike joins Sarah to talk about updates for ongoing stories in the region: the development of the Kittredge estate in Leverett (and Amherst); the New Leaf battery project in Wendell that was recently withdrawn; and the ongoing process at Falls Farm to get in compliance with environmental regulations.
Have an Ask the Editor submission? Keep them coming! podcast@montaguereporter.org
2024-09-0441 minMontague Reporter PodcastOrange rent control board mulls proposal, farm erosion continuesShout out to the MR’s 999th and 1000th issues! Check newsstands for you, or subscribe at montaguereporter.org/subscribe
Mike and Sarah discuss the ongoing story of erosion at a farm in Montague and Sunderland, and story updates. And a rent control board run by the town of Orange has been asked to consider the request by Leisure Woods Estate to raise rent on land there by 43%.
Reach us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
2024-08-0538 minMontague Reporter PodcastNew farm struggles to hold dirt; Erving updates, exit interview with Steve EllisSarah and Mike discuss a complex story of Falls Farm’s struggle with erosion; Erving’s Union 28 superintendent’s inherited challenge; and Mike’s interview with outgoing Town Administrator Steve Ellis.
Reach out with Ask the Editor (or any) questions: podcast@montaguereporter.org
2024-07-2339 minMontague Reporter PodcastStorefront and building changes in Franklin County, Erving paper mill stays standing for nowManaging Editor Mike Jackson joins podcast host Sarah Brown-Anson in a wide ranging conversation about brick-and-mortar happenings in both Greenfield and Turners Falls. Plus, voters in Erving did not allocate money to demolish the International Paper Mill, so that complex of buildings may be auctioned off to the highest bidder.
2024-05-2129 minMontague Reporter PodcastSpilled steel shards shred tires, Montague selectboard plans slow and fast projectsMike joins Sarah on the podcast again to talk about a surprise A1 article about spiky shards in the road on Industrial Boulevard, Montague Selectboard discussions about redevelopment of the former Farren site in Montague City, and the mural project on the side of the Shea Theater.
Subscribe to the paper: Montaguereporter.org/subscribe
You can reach the podcast team at podcast@montaguereporter.org
2024-04-2933 minMontague Reporter PodcastErving’s budget puzzle, Montague DPW tries to find expensive infiltration and inflowEditor Mike joins podcast host Sarah for a discussion about complex budget preparation in the town of Erving. The town of Montague does its best to find a pesky infiltration and inflow ground water leak that is costing the town tens of thousands of dollars in sewage fees.
Subscribe to the paper: montaguereporter.org/subscribe
2024-04-0939 minMontague Reporter PodcastWendell battery regs; Avenue A building; two house fires in the PatchOur perennial and most honored guest Mike joins Sarah to talk about the issues surrounding a potential battery energy storage site in Wendell; plus an inside look into the coverage of the sale of an Avenue A building and two winter fires in the Patch neighborhood.
Reach out to us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
Subscribe to the paper: montaguereporter.org/subscribe
2024-03-0639 minMontague Reporter PodcastSarah Robertson on her award-winning environmental reportingSarah Robertson recently was awarded the Paul Keough Award from the New England Water Environment Association. Congratulations, Sarah!
All of Sharon Lerner's pieces about PFAS can be found here: https://theintercept.com/series/bad-chemistry/
Boston Globe article about PFAS in composting facility: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/07/06/science/when-organic-is-toxic-how-composting-facility-likely-spread-massive-amounts-forever-chemicals-across-one-town-massachusetts/
2024-02-1426 minMontague Reporter PodcastBudget season begins with local loss of housing funds, school money shortfallMike and Sarah discuss the loss of millions of dollars of grant funds for local organizations due to a missed deadline; and the Gill Montague Regional School District is set to receive less Chapter 70 state aid than expected, and that means tough choices during budget season.
Subscribe to the paper! montaguereporter.org/subscribe
Reach out to us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
2024-02-0737 minMontague Reporter PodcastNew school regionalization recommended, too many deer at TF airportSarah and Mike discuss the recommendation by a regional board that a new regional district be formed with six towns, including Gill and Montague. Plus, a discussion of the airport in Turners Falls that has had to search for a solution for too many deer on the runway.
Order the Wrapping Paper Edition online here.
https://montaguereporter.org/wrapping-paper/
Reach out to us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
2024-01-1530 minMontague Reporter PodcastFarren reuse possibilities, Erving housing project, school district merger talks continueMike joins Sarah to discuss the possible visions for reuse of the old Farren spot in Montague City; the housing project on town-owned land in Erving that is moving forward; and continuing discussions of merging two local school districts.
Order the Wrapping Paper Edition online here.
https://montaguereporter.org/wrapping-paper/
Reach out to us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
2023-12-0634 minMontague Reporter PodcastGarth Shaneyfelt on managing the business of the MRGarth Shaneyfelt has been the Business Manager at the Montague Reporter since Fall 2022. He and Sarah discuss what that entails, and how the paper gets and spends its money.
Reach out to the podcast: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe
2023-11-0123 minMontague Reporter PodcastContract approved for Gill-Montague teachers, Erving voters strike down spending, Mike stays up all night to make the paperSarah and Mike discuss the agreement on a collective bargaining agreement for teachers at the Gill-Montague school district. The paper broke the news that Erving voters rejected most expenditures at a special town meeting (thanks to reporter Katie Nolan). Plus a very important Ask the Editor segment where Mike describes the exhausting process of putting together the paper and asks for help.
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
Ask the editor submissions can be sent to: podcast@montaguereporter.org
2023-10-2439 minMontague Reporter PodcastSchool committee vacancies filled, new Falls Fest in the Falls, lightning round newsMike and Sarah discuss September news items: two new members will join the the Gill-Montague School Committee, and a group of people is planning a new and different Falls Festival for October 21. Plus lightning round recent news updates.
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
Ask the editor submissions can be sent to: podcast@montaguereporter.org
2023-09-2631 minMontague Reporter PodcastTrouble Mandeson on local food and her column Notes from the Heartfelt CafeSarah and Trouble discuss Trouble’s column in the Montague Reporter, “Notes from the Heartfelt Cafe.”
Have a columnist you would like to hear more from on the podcast? Email us with your ideas: podcast@montaguereporter.org
2023-09-1922 minMontague Reporter PodcastMax Hartshorne on his column, Travel With MaxDid you know that there is a monthly travel column in the newspaper? It’s called Travel With Max and it’s written by Max Hartshorne. Sarah and Max discuss travel, travel writing, and why New Englanders can be boring.
2023-08-2321 minMontague Reporter PodcastHealth center location bought, trash pickup provider to change, Avenue A businessesMike discusses the July 13, 2023 paper with Sarah. Community Health Center of Franklin County bought a location in Montague City and hopes to open it to provide medical care to patients in 2024. The Selectboard unanimously selected Casella to provide trash pickup services starting in July 2024. On Avenue A, a new record store called Music Connection will open.
Send us Ask the Editor ideas: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2023-07-2532 minMontague Reporter PodcastWork-to-rule in schools, little fruit buds destroyed by freezeSarah and Mike discuss two A1 news stories in the June 8, 2023 issue of the Montague Reporter newspaper. Plus - don’t miss the Ask the Editor and non sequitur segments!
Send us Ask the Editor ideas: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2023-06-1230 minMontague Reporter PodcastEast Spoke stays open for now, Montague searches for better trash collectionMike and Sarah are back for their first joint episode since March!
Submit you questions for Ask the Editor to: podcast@montaguereporter.org
2023-05-3031 minMontague Reporter PodcastFacing Endings: Mike and Nina Discuss Last Month's Death Theme IssueMike and Nina come on the podcast to talk about the March 30th edition of the Reporter-- a themed issue about death and dying. More fun than it sounds! Outro music by She Said, featuring Nina Rossi on bass. Buy the album here: https://shesaid2.bandcamp.com/album/she-said
And subscribe to the paper! https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2023-04-2132 minMontague Reporter PodcastIan Hamilton on GCTV's film contestPlus more info about how I got started with the podcast.
Lights! Camera! Greenfield! is coming up and you can find more info here: https://gctv.org/lcg/
Subscribe to the Montague Reporter here: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2023-04-1123 minMontague Reporter PodcastThree topics related to FirstLight Power: dam pistons, school budgeting, relicensing negotiationsSarah and Mike discuss the pistons on the Turners Falls dam leaking fluid, school budgeting processes in Erving and Gill-Montague, and the negotiations that towns are having with FirstLight Power as it tries to renew its license with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Plus: Ask the Editor and a short non sequitur
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2023-03-2242 minMontague Reporter PodcastSarah Robertson on juicy stories and reporting scoopsSarah Roberston joins Mike Jackson and Sarah Brown-Anson to discuss her recent stories on fuel assistance delays and sewage sludge disposal.
You can read Sarah's article on fuel assistance delays: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/December-15-2022.pdf
And the follow up: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/January-26-2023.pdf
Sewage sludge disposal issues: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/March-2-2023.pdf
2023-03-1630 minMontague Reporter PodcastErving takes the next step with paper mill, combined sewer overflow analysisMike and Sarah discuss the decision in Erving to set aside money for the demolition of the International Paper Mill complex. They also discuss an analysis piece on combined sewer overflow (abatement) and the history of projects in the town of Montague related to CSO abatement. Plus - non sequiturs and ask the editor.
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2023-02-1537 minMontague Reporter PodcastAn inside look at the Montague Reporter subscription driveSarah and Jae discuss their efforts on the subscription drive for the Montague Reporter newspaper.
To see your subscription options, check out https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2023-02-0115 minMontague Reporter PodcastSaying goodbye to town buildings and welcoming grant money; why fuel assistance is so slowSarah and Mike discuss the latest news about the Farren building in Montague City; the announcement of $975,000 in grant money for downtown sidewalks, and plans to update or replace the elementary schools in Montague. Plus, a series of missteps has lead to a very slow year in getting fuel assistance to applicants in Franklin County.
Send in Ask the Editor questions: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Order wrapping paper on our website: https://montaguereporter.org/
2023-01-1030 minMontague Reporter PodcastBuilding and infrastructure news and the return of turkey day footballMike is back on the podcast with Sarah to discuss an Ask the Editor question, important building news in Franklin County, and turkey day football coverage.
Please be in touch if you would like to submit a jingle for the Ask the Editor segment! podcast@montaguereporter.org
If you have Ask the Editor questions please submit them via email: podcast@montaguereporter.org, instagram: @montaguereporter , or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/montaguereporter
2022-12-0739 min
CBD Wellness with Rick AnsonThe Health Benefits of CBD for Pets with guest Sarah Turbett (and the beautiful Lulu)In this episode, Sarah shares her story of how CBD has helped her beautiful dog, Lulu. CBD has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety in pets. And it turns out, they love the taste. However, it is important to find only high-quality, advanced absorption CBD for your canine friends. About Our Guest:Sarah Turbett is a multi-award-winning and globally recognized mixologist with over 15 years in the industry. Passionate about expressing her creative palate through innovative cocktail designs, Sarah enjoys working with bars, restaurants, private groups, and individuals to personalize and accentuate their b...
2022-11-1717 minMontague Reporter PodcastUpdate on Farren building, Montague Center roof repairs, and other A1 favoritesMike joins Sarah for a discussion of Montague's upcoming Historical Commission meeting on the Farren Care Center building. Jeff Singleton's article on the town-owned building that currently houses the Montague Center Library discusses the building's need for repairs as well as its long history in the town. Plus, the wrapping paper edition will be a fundraiser for the paper, and Sarah had a few favorites on A1 in this week's edition.
If you have Ask the Editor questions please submit them via email: podcast@montaguereporter.org, instagram: @montaguereporter, or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/montaguereporter
2022-11-0128 minMontague Reporter PodcastNathan Frontiero on being a stringer for the Montague ReporterIn this bonus episode, Sarah speaks with Nathan Frontiero, a writer who started contributing to the Montague Reporter earlier in 2022.
If this episode gets you interested in writing for the Reporter, you can contact Mike Jackson at editor@montaguereporter.org.
2022-10-1028 minMontague Reporter PodcastTwo stories from Leverett and the Franklin County FairMike and Sarah discuss the efforts to increase safety for children taking the school bus on Route 63 in Leverett, and the listing of an estate for sale at the price of over $23 million, well over its assessed value. Plus an on-the-ground story of the Franklin County Fair — along with pictures — makes us smile.
September 15 edition: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/September-15-2022.pdf
September 8 edition: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/September-8-2022.pdf
If you would like contact the podcast, email us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
Montague Reporter website: https://montaguereporter.org/
2022-09-2035 minMontague Reporter PodcastDavid Brule on his West Along the River column and Board serviceI invited David Brule on the podcast to talk about his column, West Along the River, that has been appearing in the paper for decades now. We ended up talking about much more: his connections with France, language learning, how he learned about and explored deeply his family's roots in this area, and his writing process. Near the end of the conversation we also talked about his service on the Board of Directors for the Montague Reporter, which is a nonprofit organization.
Reach out to the podcast at: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Thank you for listening...
2022-09-0135 minMontague Reporter PodcastResidents' crime complaints, long-form music writing in the paperSarah and Mike discuss the town of Montague’s response to resident complaints regarding crime in downtown Turners Falls; and Mike’s recent long pieces on the music scene. Plus a discussion of the new $1.50 price of the paper.
This episode features the song "Theme For Bald Eagle Over Food City" from the album Bald Eagle Over Food City by Bromp Treb, the solo project of beloved former Turner's Falls resident Neil Cloaca Young. Listeners can find the album digitally at https://bromptreb.bandcamp.com/album/bald-eagle-over-food-city.
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
...
2022-08-2227 minMontague Reporter PodcastFuture of Strathmore complex, school committee openings, and Mike's perspective on 'being bad'The future of the Strathmore complex is the subject of both an article by Jeff Singleton (July 14 edition) and a public meeting on July 26 at town hall. Mike and Sarah discuss the latest news about the Gill Montague Regional School Committee. Finally, Mike explains more about his editorial in the July 14 edition entitled “Being Bad.”
July 14 edition link: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/July-14-2022.pdf
If you would like contact the podcast, email us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
Montague Reporter website: https://montaguereporter.org/
2022-07-2534 min
CBD Lifestyle with Rob and RickThe Health Benefits of CBD for Pets with guest Sarah Turbett (and the beautiful Lulu)In this episode, Sarah shares her story of how CBD has helped her beautiful dog Lulu. CBD has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety in pets. And it turns out, they love the taste. However, it is important to find only high-quality, advanced absorption CBD for your canine friends. About Our Guest:Sarah Turbett is a multi-award winning and globally recognized mixologist with over 15 years in the industry. Passionate about expressing her creative palate through innovative cocktail designs, Sarah enjoys working with bars, restaurants, private groups and individuals to personalize and accentuate t...
2022-07-1117 min
Montague Reporter PodcastTown of Montague Bridge roundup, About-Face Computer to close on July 1Mike and Sarah discuss the latest on bridge replacements, refurbishments, and closures in the town of Montague. They also mark the July 1 planned closure of beloved local business About-Face Computer Solutions. Plus, non sequiturs from Sarah and Mike.
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
Reach the podcast at podcast@montaguereporter.org
Thanks for listening!
2022-06-2222 minMontague Reporter PodcastTown meeting season at the Montague ReporterMike joins Sarah to talk about town meetings in Montague, Gill, Erving, Wendell and Leverett. Plus, the town election in Montague and non sequiturs.
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
Reach the podcast at podcast@montaguereporter.org
Thanks for listening!
2022-05-2526 minMontague Reporter PodcastStephanie Baird on the Sex Matters columnStephanie’s new book is called EMDR Therapy and Sexual Health: A Clinician’s Guide.
https://stephaniebairdlmhc.wordpress.com/
Email: sexmatters@montaguereporter.org
Recent columns:
December - sex-positive TV shows: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/December-2-2021.pdf
January - sex-related pain: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/January-6-2022.pdf
February - body hair: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/February-3-2022.pdf
March - relationship affairs: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/March-3-2022.pdf
April - sexual trauma awareness month: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-c...
2022-05-2025 minMontague Reporter PodcastMovie filming, dam oil leak, special photo sectionMike and Sarah discuss the local filming of "Money Game," the leaking of hydraulic fluid from the Turners Falls dam, and the extra special photo spread in the B section in this week's paper.
Read the April 14, 2022 edition here: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/April-14-2022.pdf
Subscribe: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2022-04-1922 minMontague Reporter PodcastThe Science Page and science communication in the Montague ReporterHeather Hamilton and Spencer Shorkey discuss science communication and the monthly Science Page in the Montague Reporter.
Heather’s email address: heather.sc.hamilton@gmail.com
Spencer’s website: http://spencersphere.science/
2022-04-0818 minMontague Reporter Podcast50th episode of the Montague Reporter Podcast!In this special 50th episode we talk about the podcast's origins and our vision for its future. Mike Jackson hosts, with guests Sarah Brown-Anson and Stella Silbert.
Do you want to share ideas about the podcast? Email podcast@montaguereporter.org
2022-04-0426 minMontague Reporter PodcastA deeper dive into the Montague police logEmily Alling speaks with Sarah about compiling the weekly police log for the town of Montague.
Here is a link to the collection of mangy fox calls Emily speaks about in this interview: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XZ0_DOfHsBYS-RVqKO83d744u0pvtrs0QiZwyQnun1M/edit?usp=sharing
Subscribe to the Montague Reporter here: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
2022-03-2418 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: Stomping and its DiscontentsThis episode is the audio accompaniment to an item in the March 3rd, 2022 edition of the Montague Reporter, which can be found on page B1, entitled "Stomping and its Discontents: An Audio-Enhanced Police Log Retrospective." You should listen with the March 3rd edition of the paper in front of you!
Thanks to Galen Huckins for the audio accompaniment, Emily Alling for curation, and Nina Rossi for illustrations.
2022-03-0308 minMontague Reporter PodcastA not-quite-comprehensive review of hydroelectricity in Franklin CountyMike and Sarah discuss his recent road trip themed series that takes readers up to Harriman Station in Windham County, VT (through Monroe, MA). They also discuss progress in relicensing negotiations for First Light hydroelectricity production.
Read the paper online: https://montaguereporter.org/read/
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
You can reach the podcast via email at: podcast@montaguereporter.org
2022-02-2123 minMontague Reporter PodcastCelebrating the Children's Page in the Montague ReporterMy guests Hannah Brookman and Beverley Ketch discuss their creative work and the monthly Children's Page in the Montague Reporter.
Podcast editor Stella Silbert edited this episode.
The outro music for this episode is "The Lovelights Theme," written by Beverly Ketch, performed by Shannon Ketch, Kevin Smith, Omeed Goodarzi and Beverly Ketch, recorded by Omeed Goodarzi. The Lovelights soundtrack can be found at https://thelovelightsisters.bandcamp.com/releases
Looks Here’s website: https://lookyheregreenfield.com/ and email: Lookyheregreenfield@gmail.com
Order the zine here: https://lookyheregreenfield.com/product/the-lovelights-selected-works-from-the-montague-reporter-childrens-page/
Mont...
2022-01-1721 minMontague Reporter PodcastFour possible futures for Montague highway garage; Pandemic strains institutionsFour proposals were submitted to the town of Montague to reuse and repurpose the old highway garage on Avenue A. Mike discusses how the pandemic continues to strain the health care system in our area, and towns are trying to buy testing kits.
Read the paper here: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/January-6-2022.pdf
Subscribe to the paper: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
You can reach the podcast via email at: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Thank you to our podcast editor Stella Silbert!
2022-01-1224 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: The Montague Reporter redaction projectJae and Charlotte share about redacting names from older editions of the Montague Reporter police logs.
Here is the fundraiser link for the redaction project: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-the-montague-reporter-redact-names
You can reach Jae Southerland at jae@montaguereporter.org
You can reach the podcast at podcast@montaguereporter.org
2022-01-0521 minMontague Reporter PodcastBeginning of Montague budget season, possible dingle land transfer, amusing non sequitursStay for the non sequiturs for this one! Sarah asks Mike about the budget process for towns and possible transfer of town land (to the Montague Conservation Commission) in the dingle in Lake Pleasant.
Read the Montague Reporter online: https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/
Reach out to the podcast: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Thanks for listening! Tell a friend!
2021-12-1423 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: Sarah Robertson on PFAS in drinking waterPodcast regular Sarah Robertson joins the podcast in this bonus episode to talk about her reporting on PFAS chemicals in area drinking water sources.
Link to previous podcast episode: https://anchor.fm/montaguereporter/episodes/Late-March-highlights-from-A1-and-beyond-etu0kf
Read Sarah’s previous reporting in these issues of the Montague Reporter: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/April-29-2021.pdf, https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/March-4-2021.pdf
2021-11-2323 minMontague Reporter PodcastSpotlight on Montague City: Farren Care Center update and other neighborhood newsMike tells Sarah about recent reporting on what’s happening in the village of Montague City.
Thanks for listening! Tell a friend!
Read the newspaper: montaguereporter.org/read
Thank you to Stella Silbert for editing the podcast!
You can reach us @ podcast@montaguereporter.org -- but it does go to my spam box.
2021-11-1425 minMontague Reporter PodcastSolar editorial, Buckland police chief storySuper special thanks to Stella Silbert, our new podcast editor!
Sarah and Mike discuss his October 22 editorial encouraging comments on draft solar policy guidelines. They also discuss an October 14 article Mike wrote about accusations against the most recent Chief of Police in the town of Buckland, Mass. Plus, non sequiturs from the paper.
You can read the October 21 edition of the Montague Reporter here: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/October-21-2021.pdf
You can read the October 14 edition here: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/October-14-2021.pdf
Volunteer: editor@montaguereporter.org
2021-10-2428 minMontague Reporter PodcastLeverett Pond; housing and evictions update with Sarah RobertsonTo read the articles that we discussed, see the September 16, 2021 edition of the Montague Reporter: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/September-16-2021.pdf
Follow the Montague Reporter on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/montaguereporter/
Reach out to the podcast: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Thanks for listening! Tell a friend!
2021-09-2424 minMontague Reporter PodcastVolunteer ask, Candidates for Selectboard, and Montague “cop stuff”Mike and Sarah discuss volunteer opportunities at the Montague Reporter, and Mike’s recent reporting on the special selectboard election, as well as current town business taken up at a recent selectboard meeting.
The Montague Reporter Instagram account has 649 followers - join the ranks: https://www.instagram.com/montaguereporter/
Contact us: podcast@montaguereporter.org
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2021-09-1530 minMontague Reporter PodcastJoshua Shanley on the Connecticut River Flood of 1936Josh’s website: http://www.newenglandfloods.org/
You can learn more about “Connecticut River Valley Flood of 1936” and purchase it here: https://www.arcadiapublishing.com/Products/9781467145770
Read a longer form of this conversation in this week's Montague Reporter newspaper: https://montaguereporter.org/
Reach out to us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
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2021-07-2222 minMontague Reporter PodcastProminent Avenue A building sold, federal money funds local projectsSarah and Mike discuss changes to the St Katz building on Avenue A, as well as what local towns plan to do with the federal funds becoming available through the American Rescue Plan Act.
Contact us at podcast@montaguereporter.org or 413-586-8666.
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2021-07-0623 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus Episode: Trish Crapo on Art Beat column and creativityDon’t miss Trish Crapo’s last Art Beat column in the Montague Reporter June 17, 2021 edition out this week!
Jack Nelson: It's in the Brush: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/May-2-2019.pdf
Remembering Hallmark: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/January-7-2021.pdf
Trish’s website: http://www.trishcrapo.com/Telling_Stories_with_Light/Welcome.html
2021-06-1723 minMontague Reporter PodcastBig picture A1 news: redistricting and police advisory group feedbackSarah and Mike discuss the news from late May. Mike also talks about an unexpected story that he published online.
Reach out to the podcast: podcast@montaguereporter.org
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2021-05-2628 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: transparency in the Massachusetts House of RepresentativesIn this episode we take a deep dive into Massachusetts state politics. I discuss with two local residents, Alex Davidson Carroll and Matt Barron, proposals to increase public access and transparency of the goings-on in the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
Link to the Letter to the Editor in the January 28, 2021 edition: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/January-28-2021.pdf
Act On Mass, an organization working on the statehouse transparency issue: https://actonmass.org/
2021-05-1326 minMontague Reporter PodcastIs dual-use solar coming to Western Mass? Is artificial intelligence the future of the Montague Reporter?Mike and Sarah discuss a proposed project in Northfield to allow dual-use solar on a farm. The discussion also turns to Mike’s experiences reporting long-form interviews, and the current (good!) state of the newspaper. Plus - speculations on the role of artificial intelligence at the paper.
Mike is taking applications for apprentices! You heard it here first. Contact him at editor@montaguereporter.org
Reach out to the podcast: podcast@montaguereporter.org
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2021-05-0429 minMontague Reporter PodcastLate March highlights from A1 and beyondJoin Sarah, Reporter Sarah Robertson, and Managing Editor Mike Jackson in a discussion of the newspaper’s recent reporting on goings-on in Montague and surrounding towns, as well as Sarah Robertson’s reporting on housing and the environment.
If you like the podcast, please leave us a review and subscribe.
Comments, questions, or suggestions? Reach out to us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
March 25 edition of the Montague Reporter: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/March-25-2021.pdf
Sarah R’s reporting on PFAS in the March 11 edition: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/March-1...
2021-03-3129 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: deep dive into Connecticut River ecology and FirstLight relicensing processJoin us for a deep dive into Sarah Robertson's (and the Montague Reporter's) reporting on the FirstLight Power relicensing process for power production on the Connecticut River. Scientists Ken Sprankel (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service with the CT River Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office) and Rodger Gwiazdowski (Department of Environmental Conservation, UMass, Amherst) join us for a discussion on environmental impacts on the CT River.
Ken’s website, Connecticut River Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office: https://www.fws.gov/r5crc/
U.S. Fish and Wildlife service page for Puritan Tiger Beetle: https://www.fws...
2021-03-2339 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: catching up with Joe Parzych on local history and photojournalismPlease feel free to reach out to Joe Parzych via email at Joerparzych@gmail.com. His website is https://www.facebook.com/Jrparzych/.
Link to the Faces and Places feature: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/September-24-2020.pdf (Page A8).
Reach out to the podcast at podcast@montaguereporter.org
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2021-02-2613 minMontague Reporter PodcastMontague town buildings and schools set to reopen, coverage of pandemic housing crisis continuesThe Montague selectboard met to discuss reopening town buildings after fewer new COVID cases were reported. The selectboard also convinced Eversource to remove more redundant polls in town. Gill-Montague schools are set to reopen in a hybrid model starting February 22. The Montague Reporter continues to cover evictions and the housing crisis in the area. Plus - entertaining tidbits and non sequiturs!
If you like the podcast, please leave us a review and subscribe.
Comments, questions, or suggestions? Reach out to us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
Read the Montague Reporter newspaper here: https://montaguereporter.o...
2021-02-1724 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: Valley Eye Radio brings Montague Reporter content to the valleyLearn more about Valley Eye Radio on their website: https://valleyeyeradio.org/ and listen live here: https://valleyeyeradio.org/listen-live.html
Contact the Montague Reporter podcast: podcast@montaguereporter.org or 413-863-8666
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2021-02-0817 minMontague Reporter PodcastLeverett Co-op, Vaccine Supply, PPP small business fundingLeveret Village Coop has their annual meeting coming up after a year in which it came back from the brink of closure. Vaccinations are taking place in Franklin County, but the availability of future supply of vaccine doses is unclear. The second round of Paycheck Protection Program funding is now available and the Montague Reporter is following the infusion of federal funds into the local economy.
If you like the podcast, please leave us a review and subscribe.
Comments, questions, or suggestions? Reach out to us at podcast@montaguereporter.org
Read the Montague...
2021-01-2620 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: Sarah Robertson and Mike Jackson on evictions and housing, FirstLight relicensingJoin host Sarah Brown-Anson, Reporter Sarah Robertson and MR Managing Editor Mike Jackson for a conversation about ongoing coverage of evictions and housing insecurity in Franklin County, and the relicensing of FirstLight’s operations along the Connecticut River.
Thank you to everyone who has helped us on our first year as a podcast! Like longer episodes? Like shorter episodes? Want us to talk about a certain topic? Reach out and let us know! podcast@montaguereporter.org or 413-863-8666.
Visit https://montaguereporter.org/subscribe/ to subscribe to the paper or to read a PDF of th...
2020-12-3024 minMontague Reporter PodcastCoronavirus numbers up in Franklin County, FirstLight relicensing moves forward, PPP program brings $93 million to countyData point to COVID-19 cases being more widespread than ever in Franklin County. FirstLight Power’s quest to renew their license takes a step forward. Plus Mike explains his reporting and editorial on the Paycheck Protection Program’s impact on our county and its economy.
Preregister for free COVID testing: tinyurl.com/y6etuajc
Tests will be available, on demand and at no cost, on the Greenfield Community College campus Tuesday, December 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Wednesday, December 16 from 1 to 6 p.m. They are available without a medical referral and to those with...
2020-12-1524 minMontague Reporter PodcastIntroducing the Montague Reporter wrapping paper edition!Learn more about the special wrapping paper edition -- AVAILABLE NOW! -- from three of the people behind the project, Charlotte Kohlmann, Annie Levine, and Nina Rossi.
Order your copies of the special wrapping paper edition here: https://montaguereporter.org/montague-reporter-special-wrapping-paper-edition/
Or you can pick up a copy at a local retailer.
Donate: https://montaguereporter.org/donate/
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2020-12-0112 minMontague Reporter PodcastEvictions in Franklin County, Montague marijuana Mecca, and environmental concerns for First Light relicensingMike and Sarah discuss the Montague Reporter’s coverage of evictions in Franklin County, the town of Montague’s burgeoning marijuana industry, and the Puritan tiger beetle’s role in First Light’s relicensing process.
Reach out: podcast@montaguereporter.org
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2020-11-1824 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus Episode: What is remote learning like for high school students?Hear directly from two local high school students, Sofia Holden and Izzy Vachula-Curtis, about what remote learning is like, what they like and dislike about it, and what some of the challenges of the pandemic have meant for their lives.
Check out Izzy Vachula-Curtis’s article in the Montague Reporter, October 15: “The At-Home Classroom: In Our Own Words” at https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/October-15-2020.pdf
Contact us: podcast@montaguereporter.org or 413-863-8666
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2020-11-0816 minMontague Reporter PodcastFarren Care Center closure proposal draws more scrutiny, election season arrives during pandemicManaging Editor Mike Jackson and podcast host Sarah discuss updates on the Farren Care Center closure process, election season, and unpaid work that parents are doing during remote learning.
Boston Globe article: “Nursing home of last resort on the verge of being closed” by Brian MacQuarrie and Laura Crimaldi: https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/10/19/metro/nursing-home-last-resort-verge-being-closed/
Reach out to Nancy Folbre: economist.montague@gmail.com
What are the challenges you face? How are you coping with them? Do you have any suggestions about ways we could help each other out?
Please let us k...
2020-10-2722 minMontague Reporter PodcastErving approves funding for sludge-drying system, candidates debate in second Franklin race, Montague voting season updatesHost Sarah Brown-Anson discusses recent news with Managing Editor Mike Jackson: Erving residents approved borrowing up to $17.9 million for a sludge-drying system at a recent town meeting. Current State Representative Susannah Whipps and Will LaRose, candidates for 2nd Franklin state rep seat, debated in a virtual forum. Plus a voting season update for the town of Montague and the inside story of how the Montague Reporter was published against the odds after Wednesday night’s storm.
Reach out: podcast@montaguereporter.org or 413-863-8666
2020-10-1223 minMontague Reporter PodcastRemote learning begins, Farren Care hearing draws criticism of closureManaging Editor Mike Jackson and Sarah discuss the beginning of remote learning in the Gill-Montague school district. A hearing on potential closure of the Farren Care Center in Montague draws criticism from local politicians and others. Plus: coverage of the race for State Representative in the Second Franklin district, the push for safety barriers at French King Bridge on Route 2, and reminders of lighter topics in the paper this week.
Reach out to us anytime! 413-863-8666 or podcast@montaguereporter.org
2020-09-2326 minMontague Reporter PodcastEnd of the summer: Gill-Montague schools to begin with at-home learning, Farren announces it will closeSarah and Mike discuss what’s new at the Montague Reporter, then dive into the news: Gill-Montague schools are starting with remote learning for at least the first two weeks of classes, and Farren Care Center in Montague City announces it will close. Plus, columnist Izzy Vachula-Curtis finally gets to interview author Brandon Mull.
Contact us: podcast@montaguereporter.org or 413-863-8666
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2020-08-2823 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: Joe Parzych on photojournalism as a freelance contributor to the Montague ReporterCheck out Joe’s photos on his website: https://www.facebook.com/Jrparzych/
Let us know what you think about the podcast! Email podcast@montaguereporter.org or call 413-863-8666
Please rate and review the podcast, it helps us get more listeners.
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2020-08-2708 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: A look into the Montague Reporter archives with Jeff SingletonFind Jeff’s article on Page 1 of the Montague Reporter from May 22, 2014: https://montaguereporter.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/May22-2014.pdf
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Email us! podcast@montaguereporter.org
2020-08-1914 minMontague Reporter PodcastPrinting press ends its run, Montague Police Advisory groups, Wendell pot moratoriumThe Montague Reporter is no longer being printed at the Gazette in Northampton ~ what does this mean for the future of the paper? And how does this tie in with regional trends in the news business?
The town of Montague is set to form two police advisory groups. What are these groups and what are their goals?
Town meeting voters in Wendell approved one-year moratorium after proposal from Apple Guy Flowers, LLC to grown 25-50 marijuana plants on West Street. What is the context for this story?
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2020-07-1422 minMontague Reporter PodcastBlack Lives Matter protests in Franklin County, ACLU report on racial disparities in marijuana arrestsMike and Sarah discuss the Montague Reporter's coverage of Black Lives Matters protests in Franklin County, and a recent ACLU report that found huge racial disparities in arrest rates for marijuana possession in the county.
Link to Montague Community Television video of Black Lives Matter protest in Greenfield: https://vimeo.com/427189796
Contact us! 413-863-8666 or podcast@montaguereporter.org
2020-06-1616 minMontague Reporter PodcastTowns change venues for annual meeting, Mr. Bush brings "another story" to the newspaper, local businesses negotiate for rent reliefSarah and Mike discuss the venues for upcoming town meetings in Montague and Leverett, a three-week serialized discussion with Turners Falls local George Bush, and how small local businesses are paying or deferring rent during the state of emergency.
Read the Montague Reporter: https://montaguereporter.org/
Donate: https://montaguereporter.org/donate/
2020-05-1923 minMontague Reporter PodcastLocal institutions try to prevent COVID-19 outbreaks, schools cancel April vacation, Montague Reporter goes back to printSarah and Montague Reporter Managing Editor Mike Jackson discuss the Farren Care Center's measures to prevent an outbreak of COVID-19, the first reported cases among staff at the Franklin County House of Correction, and how the leadership of Gill-Montague schools have responded to the pandemic. And, the Montague Reporter will be back in print starting with the April 23 edition. Folks are encouraged to be neighborhood point people through Western Mass Community Mutual Aid: https://www.wmacma.com/.
Read the Montague Reporter: https://montaguereporter.org/
Donate: https://montaguereporter.org/donate/
2020-04-2119 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: Jeff Singleton on his Montague beat and the history of the Montague ReporterJeff Singleton, news writer for the Montague Reporter discusses the town's response to the pandemic and how things have changed (or not) as a journalist reporting on town business. He also takes us on a look back at the history of the Montague Reporter newspaper.
Read the Montague Reporter online: https://montaguereporter.org/
Donate: https://montaguereporter.org/donate/
Contact us at podcast@montaguereporter.org or 413-863-8666
2020-04-1415 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: guest editors Julian Mayo and Izzy Vachula-Curtis reflect on special edition of Montague ReporterSarah speaks with the guest editors of the April 2, 2020 special youth-created edition of the Montague Reporter, Julian Mayo and Izzy Vachula-Curtis, about their experiences editing the paper.
2020-04-0714 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: Samantha Wood on Greenfield responses to coronavirus and the importance of journalism during the public health crisisNews writer Samantha Wood, whose beat is Greenfield, discusses policy changes at the Franklin County House of Correction and the city of Greenfield in response to the coronavirus emergency. Plus, why journalists play a critical role in addressing the current health crisis.
Read the newspaper at https://montaguereporter.org/
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Our email: podcast@montaguereporter.org
Phone number (leave a voicemail): 413-863-8666
2020-03-3020 minMontague Reporter PodcastTowns and Montague Reporter respond to Coronavirus pandemicIn this episode, Sarah and Mike discuss how the Coronavirus outbreak is impacting life in our reporting area, and how people are supporting each other through mutual aid and food distribution networks. The Montague Reporter newspaper will be publishing in an exclusively digital format beginning with the March 27, 2020 edition. Mike previews a youth-created special issue that will be published in April.
To read the newspaper: https://montaguereporter.org/
To donate: https://montaguereporter.org/donate/
2020-03-2321 minMontague Reporter PodcastMontague's new comfort dog; pay raises in Erving; return of editorialIn this episode, Managing Editor Mike Jackson and Sarah discuss the young comfort dog featured on the front page of the February 27 edition. Erving is trying do the math on pay raises promised to town employees. Sarah asks Mike about this week's editorial on national politics. PLUS non sequiturs on headlines and stopping the presses for a typo.
2020-03-0315 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: Izzy Vachula-Curtis on the Authors' Corner columnIzzy Vachula-Curtis discusses her Montague Reporter column where she writes about books and interviews authors. Izzy's most recent column, where she interviews the author of A Match Made in Mehendi, Nandini Bajpai, was published in the February 20 edition of the Montague Reporter.
2020-02-2912 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode - audio postcard from GillAn audio postcard from Gill as Sarah and Annabel Levine distribute the Montague Reporter.
2020-02-1704 minMontague Reporter PodcastFebruary: Wendell solar development, Leverett Village Co-op, bridge rehab plansMike and Sarah discuss the withdrawal of plans to build a solar development in the center of Wendell, the latest updates from the struggling Leverett Village Co-op, and reactions to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation proposal to repair the General Pierce Bridge between Montague City and Greenfield.
2020-02-1014 minMontague Reporter PodcastBonus episode: Nina Rossi discusses investigative series on the lotteryNina Rossi, features editor at the Montague Reporter, discusses her recently published investigative series on the history of state lotteries with podcast host Sarah Brown-Anson. Nina's three-part series was published in the January 2, January 9, and January 16 editions of the Montague Reporter.
2020-01-2710 minMontague Reporter PodcastJanuary: towns' recycling woes; memorial article; co-op meetingsThis episode Sarah and Mike discuss the series of articles about rising recycling fees that are hitting area towns, the memorial article that ran celebrating the life of Elaine Cuthbert, why Mike chose to write an editorial about area food cooperatives' upcoming meetings, and Mike's distributing newspapers in downtown Turners Falls.
2020-01-2013 min