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The Shoestring
“Ban! Ban! Ban!”: Data-center discontent reaches western Massachusetts
Last month, amid protests from city residents, Holyoke became the first in the state to ban new data centers. Two days later, Westfield moved toward passing a data-center moratorium.
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“Loss of local autonomy”: With GBH, NEPM merger looming, what’s next for local public media?
The organizations have billed their merger as building a “more sustainable future” amid federal funding cuts. But what comes next remains unclear.
After success of fare-free transit, what’s next for PVTA?
The “Try Transit” initiative has helped the PVTA restore ridership to pre-pandemic levels, with route expansions next on the bus service’s agenda.
Hampden sheriff last local holdout for controversial anti-terrorism partnership
Almost every local agency has left an anti-terrorism partnership with the FBI. With President Trump attempting to leverage it to stifle dissent, records show one local agency remains.
Judge dismisses student protestor assault charge after two years
Maysoun Batley maintains she did not spit on a state police officer during the university’s 2024 Gaza solidarity protest crackdown. But two years of court proceedings have taken a toll.
“Dark money” group takes aim at Longmeadow municipal fiber vote
Advocates for the creation of a new public utility hope their message can be heard above a well-funded campaign against the network buildout.
ABOUT THE SHOESTRING
The Shoestring is an independent news publication in Western Massachusetts that provides in-depth and accurate journalism covering local politics, culture, and power. We bring you the stories, perspectives, and context that no one else does, from Northampton and across the Connecticut River Valley.