Daily Hampshire Gazette - Established 1786
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Opinion

Chris Barcomb, of Easthampton, sits where a bench used to be in front of Hay Market Cafe on Main Street Northampton Tuesday afternoon.

Editorial: What makes a downtown?

Friday, May 24, 2013

In response to long-standing problems reported by downtown shopkeepers, Mayor David J. Narkewicz took decisive action last week when he authorized the removal of six benches that had long been stationed along Northampton’s wide, tree-lined Main Street sidewalks. The benches did what benches do — they invited passersby to have a seat and rest a while. But in some respects, … 2

Clare Higgins: Enough of political dynasties. We're a democracy, after all

Friday, May 24, 2013

NORTHAMPTON — The George W. Bush Presidential Library was dedicated this past April. The day before the ceremonies, Barbara Bush was interviewed about the 2016 presidential prospects of her son Jeb, the former governor of Florida. Remarkably, she said, “I think it’s a great country, there are a lot of great families, and it’s not just four families or whatever. There are other … 0

Ilan Korman: Support override, support better backing for education

Friday, May 24, 2013

To the editor: In the wake of Northampton’s budget deficit, public school administrators have been left with no choice but to snip away at vital educational programs. Among the first teaching positions to be cut are those in the many art departments across the district. These classes range from performing arts to visual arts to technological arts — all of which are important … 0

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Larry Parnass, the editor of the Gazette, has been on the newspaper's staff since 1988 as an editor, reporter and columnist.

Where is the inaccuracy? He does not understand the financial running of Smith School; how could he when he gave inaccurate information...(full comment)

Julie Thomas: Mayor’s plan resembles ‘hostile takeover’

Clarification: The CPA grant will supplement more than $20,000 that the Unitarian Universalist Society of Amherst has raised for the actual restoration...(full comment)

Unitarian Church in Amherst to renovate stained-glass window using town money