Massachusetts law banning texting while driving is hard to enforce

NORTHAMPTON - When a ban on texting while driving became state law in 2010, it came with high expectations and a promise to make the commonwealth's roads safer.But in the 18 months since then, area police have cited only a handful of drivers for the offense. And when drivers do get slapped with a fine for texting behind the wheel, it usually stems from motor vehicle accidents or other charges, police records show.

US gives Connecticut River new accolade as 'National Blueway'

HARTFORD, Conn. - U.S. Interior Secretary Ken Salazar on Thursday declared the Connecticut River a national model for conservation efforts, designating the waterway as the country's first "National Blueway," which he said will help attract further investment for improvements. At a riverside park in Connecticut's capital, Salazar said that thanks to the work of groups such as Connecticut River Watershed Council and the Friends of the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, the Connecticut River is no longer regarded as a landscaped sewer system.

Amherst and Northampton churches cut costs by going green

In the 40 days before Easter, when Christians traditionally give up a certain food or bad habit for Lent, several Amherst churches encouraged members to give up clothes dryers, unnecessary car trips or plastic grocery bags. Many faith communities throughout the Valley take seriously the call in the book of Genesis to be good stewards of the Earth, by reducing energy use, changing personal habits, learning about environmental issues and even engaging in demonstrations.

Hampshire Life: Reporter Bob Dunn experiences the sport of fencing

Fencing, I've decided, continues humankind's great tradition of taking an ancient method of killing another human being and turning it into a contest for fortune and glory. And since I'm all for fortune and glory, I decided to take a stab at it. Safety is a priority at the Pioneer Valley Fencing Academy in Easthampton, and before we start swinging metal sticks at each other, instructor Ken Mondschein and I spend a fair amount of time finding the right protective equipment.

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Josh Hawkins, Loyola lacrosse team anxious for Final Four

FOXBOROUGH - Amherst native Josh Hawkins and his Loyola (Md.) men's lacrosse team are anxious to prove themselves on the national stage at this weekend's NCAA Division I Final Four.For Hawkins, one of three team members from Massachusetts, the location is clearly a bonus. Hawkins and his teammates arrived at Gillette Stadium Thursday afternoon to familiarize themselves with the field they'll take Saturday afternoon for the national semifinals.