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MontagueMA.net is THE place on the web for local gossip, news, event calendars and business listings for Montague, MA, located in the Pioneer Valley of beautiful western Massachusetts. Residents from neighboring towns, such as Gill, Erving, Northfield, Wendell, Leverett, Sunderland, Deerfield and Greenfield are also welcome to join in the fun.

🌿✨ Join Us for the 26th Annual North Quabbin Garlic & Arts Festival! 🌟

📅 Dates: September 28 & 29, 2024
🕙 Time: 10 AM - 5 PM (Rain or Shine)
📍 Location: Forster Farm, 60 Chestnut Hill Rd, Orange, MA

Get ready for a weekend filled with art, music, local farm products, and family-friendly fun! 🎶👩‍🌾 With over 100 booths featuring regional artists and farmers, delicious food, and engaging workshops, there's something for everyone!

Admission:

Adults: $10 (Good for both days!)
Students/Seniors: $5
Kids 12 and under: Free
Tickets available online now! 👉 www.garlicandarts.org

Don’t miss the “Festival that Stinks” — a celebration of community, creativity, and love! 💚 Bring your own water bottle for free refills, and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Follow us for updates:
🌐 Facebook: North Quabbin Garlic & Arts Festival
📸 Instagram: @nqgarlicandartsfestival

#GarlicAndArts #NorthQuabbin #CommunityLove #FamilyFun
 
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Evening. Any reason the paper sent out (online) is last weeks edition??? Called earlier this afternoon and no returned call. Thanx, Stash. P.S. If you dosend me an email .........
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Dorinda - Fri, Jan 12, 2024 8:40 A
If you select and copy the text (not click the link) and paste it into a web browser, you'll get the correct edition.
Twenty four years ago today I bought the domain name MontagueMA.net and put up this website! Next year will be 25 years, unbelievably. Should we throw a party? Mik
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Hermionejh - Wed, Jan 3, 2024 8:59 P
I think that would be great Mik! Jerri
Looking for a local supplier for firewood. Only need a few cords of greener stuff. Live in Millers... Thanks, Stash
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Due to the snow storm, the libraries are closed today, Tues Mar 14. Stay safe, everyone!
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The Montague Public Libraries are closed, Friday, January 20, due to the weather. We apologize for any inconvenience.
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mik - Fri, Dec 2, 2022, 10:48 A
Montague Back!
Looks like the site is working again. Further upgrades and speed fixes will come over the next few months. Have at it, and welcome back!
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Joey - Tue, Nov 22, 2022, 1:03 P
Update
I've just updated the layout and comments are working again. The site however does not work on mobile very well yet. I'll have this looking good and working on mobile by the end of tomorrow. If you have any questions or comments, please let me know. Thank you everyone who uses the site.
 
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mik - Wed, Nov 23, 2022 3:31 P
Looking good!
mik - Tue, Nov 22, 2022 3:26 P
Thanks, Joey. Looking forward to more updates!
Hey,

I'm gonna go though today and tomorrow and change the layout and styling a bit for the site. If you see something broken or just looking weird, it'll end up being fixed shortly after. We are finally getting to the comments not working too. Hopefully we can get the site back to 100% in the next couple days.

Thanks
 
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Joey - Tue, Nov 22, 2022 11:40 A
Thems be working
Joey - Tue, Nov 22, 2022 11:40 A
Working?
Hi,
This is my first post, so I hope I'm posting to the right place. I am looking for someone to host my small pet dog from Saturday morning, 11/26 to Sunday afternoon, 11/27. He is a very loving, small, people-oriented, Cavachon (King Charles Spaniel/Bichon Frise mix). I will, of course, drop off and pick up, supply meals and treats, and a stipend.
I can be reached at 413-367-6911.
Thanks,
Rob
 
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I am working on an article on former Montague Center, and later, Greenfield resident Benjamin Franklin Miner (often written as B. F. Miner), who wrote a book with formulas and a method he developed for extracting vanilla.
The book was promised through subscription only, and likely started selling in 1902. Miner lived in Montague Center from the late 1800's until early or mid-1900's.
He wrote a 16-page prospectus pamphlet containing endorsements from local banks and others who had worked with him and vouched for his upstanding reputation.
I am wondering if anyone from the area has that book in their family's library or keepsakes, which is likely a slim volume.
I spoke with Ed Gregory from the Montague Historical Society, and he found a chemist's letter describing the chemical break down of true vanilla, but it did not contain Miner's formula, nor was it written by Miner.
You can reply here, or care of editor@montaguereporter.org
Thank you so much for any information,
Jerri Higgins
 
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Hi,
This is my first post, so I hope I'm posting to the right place. I am looking for someone to host my small pet dog from Saturday morning, 11/26 to Sunday afternoon, 11/27. He is a very loving, small, people-oriented, Cavachon (King Charles Spaniel/Bichon Frise mix). I will, of course, drop off and pick up, supply meals and treats, and a stipend.
I can be reached at 413-367-6911.
Thanks,
Rob
 
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newbie - Mon, Oct 31, 2022, 9:44 A
Update
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
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stash - Fri, Oct 28, 2022, 12:15 P
Quiet
Wow this site has been awful quiet. Remember to cast your votes for the politcos of choice. Got to love mail in voteing (sp) . Thanks Miss Deb........ Stash
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mik - Mon, Sep 12, 2022, 5:15 P
Website Update
Hey all, we're finally getting back to working on this corkboard software platform. Should see some updates in the next few weeks, including less errors starting today. Contact me directly via this website if you encounter anything weird. We'll get on it.

Thanks for sticking around these 22+ plus years. The site turns 23 years old in October!

-Mik
 
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The Montague Public Libraries are accepting applications for a Branch Library Assistant at the Millers Falls Library. The branch library is located in the center of Millers Falls, a village of Montague. As the sole staff member to work at Millers, the Branch Library Assistant runs a one-person show. Duties include using a computerized library circulation system, shelving, and customer service. Experience working with the public and computer skills are essential.
The Branch Library Assistant will work with the Library Director to identify community needs and develop or modify services and resources to respond to them. For example, the Millers Library currently maintains a small, but widely used, food pantry. Though not required, there is also opportunity for the Branch Library Assistant to develop branch programming. This is a 12 hour per week position, with a schedule which includes Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1 – 7 p.m. Fill-in hours at the Carnegie Library or Montague Center Library are also occasionally available in addition to the 12 hours.
This is a grade A position, and step 1 is $15.49/hour. To apply, submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to LibraryDirector@montague-ma.gov by Monday, August 22nd. Inquiries about the position made be sent to that email address as well.
For a full description, visit montaguepubliclibraries.org
 
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site is acting up for me and can't find your post. Just wanted to say it would be nice to know which precinct you are eligible to represent.
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Okay - thanks, Mik!
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Yeah, I'm not surprised. At some point we'll take a closer look at the site software again, but we had to let staff go back in December 2020 and I've been flat out with website projects, so, no time to noodle around with the corkboard software. I'm pretty sure what the issue is (that petition was actually from another website running this software) and can fix it at some point, likely in April. Sorry folks!
 
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angela - Tue, Mar 29, 2022, 1:09 P
Job Vacancy
The Montague Public Libraries are accepting applications for two Substitute Library Assistants. Work includes circulation desk activities; shelving materials, reference services and interlibrary loan services, providing information and assistance to patrons and the community; and responding to inquiries, requests and complaints. Library experience is strongly preferred and both customer service and computer skills are essential.

The Substitute Library Assistant fills in at the Carnegie Library, Millers Falls Branch, and/or Montague Center Branch when those libraries’ regular library assistants take vacation or sick time. While some shifts may be scheduled weeks or days in advance, the substitute library assistant will also be called to provide coverage day-of. This is a non-graded position and the pay is $14.25/hour. A completed Montague *employment application, resume, cover letter, and three reference names must be submitted by email to Library Director, Caitlin Kelley, at librarydirector@montague-ma.gov by Friday, April 15th at 12:00PM.

*The employment application is attached at the bottom of this post.

TOWN OF MONTAGUE JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE:

Substitute Library Assistant

DATE:

March 2022

DEPARTMENT:

Library

GRADE:

Non-Graded

REPORTS TO:

Library Director

FLSA:

Non-Exempt

Statement of Duties

The Substitute Library Assistant fills in to provide service at the Carnegie Library, Millers Falls Branch, and/or Montague Center Branch when those libraries’ regular library assistants take vacation or sick time. While some shifts may be scheduled weeks or days in advance, the substitute library assistant will also be called to provide coverage day-of. Work includes circulation desk activities; shelving materials, reference services and interlibrary loan services, providing information and assistance to patrons and the community; and responding to inquiries, requests and complaints.

Supervision/Guidance Received

Employee is familiar with the work routine and uses initiative in carrying out recurring assignments independently without specific instruction. Employee is expected to refer unusual situations to the supervisor for advice and further instructions. Reviews and checks of the employee’s work are applied to an extent sufficient to keep the supervisor aware of progress, and to ensure that completed work and methods used are technically accurate and that instructions are being followed.

Job Environment

The work involves the interpretation of numerous standardized practices, procedures, or general instructions that govern the work. Judgment is needed to locate, select and apply the most pertinent practice, procedure, regulation or guideline. The sequence of work and/or the procedures followed vary according to the nature of the transaction and/or the information involved, or sought, in a particular situation.

The position has constant contact with the public to respond to inquiries, requests, or complaints, render services, and/or give or receive information.

Position Functions

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to, or extension of, the position.

Essential Functions

Lends and collects books, periodicals, DVD’s, and electronic and digital media; uses library software; conducts various patron transactions.

Inspects returned items for damage, checks due dates and collects fines.

Provides customer service, answers patrons’ questions, helps them to locate materials, answers telephone and responds to their questions.

Assists in organizing and maintaining library, shelves materials in proper place, replaces printer and copier paper as needed replaces toner, ribbons, and ink.

Registers new patrons, and issues borrower’s card.

Instructs patrons in library procedures, policies, use of materials, copier and computer and printer.

Assists patrons in researching and obtaining information from library collection, performs interview to try to pinpoint exactly what they need for resources.

Recommends reading to patrons as requested.

Opens doors at proper time, empties book drop, performs closing procedures.

Takes reservations for books and materials and contacts patron in a timely manner when material becomes available.

Maintains a safe and pleasant environment.

Oversees computer schedule to be sure people get right amount of time.

Recommended Minimal Qualifications

Education and Experience

Requires High school diploma/G.E.D; and 1 to 3 years’ experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

A candidate for this position should have knowledge of the following:

Library principles and procedures

Reference sources

Computers, Microsoft Office, smartphones, and tablets

Dewey Decimal system

Evergreen automated system

Library catalogs

Skill in:

Computer programs and applications

Organization and communication

Customer service

Public relations

And ability to:

Perform mutliple tasks simultaneously, despite frequent interruptions

Pay attention to details

Maintain confidentiality

Tools and Equipment Used

The employee operates standard office equipment (e.g., personal computer, telephone, copier)

Physical Requirements

The physical demands listed here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.

Moderate physical effort is required to perform administrative and library duties. The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, speak, hear, lift up to 10 pounds and use hands to operate the computer. The employee routinely kneels, crouches, and/or reaches with arms, and lifts or carries up to 30 pounds.

Vision requirements include the ability to read routine material and documents for analysis and general understanding, and to use a computer.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that the employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations are considered to ensure individuals with disabilities can perform essential functions.

Administrative work is performed under typical office conditions.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

Visit our website montaguepubliclibraries.org and find our Job Vacancy post in "Latest News" for the Employment Application.
 
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Is it just me, or has this website become kind of buggy recently? I've tried to comment on Mike Henry's announcement a few times; sometimes nothing happens, sometimes it seems to go through but then it's not there, sometimes I get an error page with "CFCATCH" at the top and then a bunch of error data. Sometimes I get the same (I think?) page when I try to log on, but then when I go back I'm logged on. Today I noticed a link in the blue box on the left to an "Impeach Bush Cheney Petition". However one feels about those guys, IMHO it's a little late now. Then I got the error again trying to log on, and now that link isn't there. Maybe it's something on my end (?). Just wondering if others are experiencing the same things.
 
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MAGPIE - Saturday – March 19 - 7:30 pm
Mount Toby Concerts - 194 Long Plain Rd. (Rte. 63), Leverett, MA

With a career that has spanned forty years, Magpie has traveled the globe, bringing its unique sound and breathtaking versatility to audiences everywhere. Award-winning recording artists, songwriters, musical historians and social justice activists, Greg Artzner and Terry Leonino always promise a presentation that is highly entertaining as well as provocative and deeply moving.

Magpie's songs touch on historical, cultural and social interests with a large selection focusing on Civil Rights and the environment. Terry and Greg's sound is that of two very strong voices, one female, one male, in powerful leads and two-part harmony, embellished by Terry's guitar, harmonica, mandolin and dulcimer. Theirs is a powerful sound, full of passion and fire.

The duo has appeared in national and international demonstrations and protest marches and rallies, sung in jails, on picket lines and churches. Their songs are used today in modern Civil Rights and environmental protection movements, especially Give Light and We Belong to the Earth, which are included in the new group singing songbook, Rise Again, along with six other of their songs.
https://magpiemusic.com

Suggested donation $15 to $30

Reserve seats at diacrowe@yahoo.com or call 413-336-2589

*******************************

Online Concert Option via Zoom

We are offering an online concert viewing (via zoom) for this concert as well as our usual in-person show. Ticket prices range from $5 to $30. Pay as you are able. Visit the web page below to purchase online tickets and get details about how you’ll receive the live-stream link:

https://www.riseupan...pie-mt-toby-concerts

***********************************

COVID -19 Policy: Masks are required indoors. Proof of Vaccination for the virus is required or a negative test taken within the previous 2 days. Additional measures we have taken at the concerts include reduced room capacity to 50 people and distancing of seating from others. We also use room purifiers.
 
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Due to the icy conditions, the Carnegie Library is closed Friday, February 4th. Stay safe, everyone!
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mik - Tue, Jan 18, 2022, 12:28 P
Mike Langknecht
Rest in peace, Mike. You will be sorely missed.
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MikeNaughton - Tue, Jan 18, 2022 7:04 P
Wow. What a shock. Yes, he will be missed.
JanetMasucci - Tue, Jan 18, 2022 3:04 P
sorry to hear this :-(
Due to the snow, the library will open at 12:00pm Friday, January 7th. We apologize for any inconvenience!
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