Common Hall available for rent!
Montague-Palooza: Corkboard

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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!
Joey - Tue, Nov 22, 2022, 9:23 A
Starting The 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?
robo - Mon, Nov 14, 2022, 9:43 P
Pet Sitting 11/26-11/27
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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Hermionejh - Mon, Nov 14, 2022, 2:47 P
Looking For Specific Book From B.f. Miner From The Early 1900’s
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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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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MikeNaughton - Tue, Apr 5, 2022, 6:55 P
Problems With Website
Okay - thanks, Mik!
 
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mik - Wed, Mar 30, 2022, 3:04 P
Problems With The Website
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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MikeNaughton - Thu, Mar 24, 2022, 6:50 P
Problems With This Website?
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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DianneC - Tue, Mar 15, 2022, 3:21 P
Magpie Toby Friends
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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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 :-(
stash - Mon, Jan 3, 2022, 6:36 P
Newbie May Right
Sitting here watching the selectboards meeting. Who is going to pay for converting the Farren into housing? Town sure as heck doesn't have the bucks. Also being west of rte 128 the state sure as he77 won't.
 
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stash - Wed, Feb 16, 2022 9:28 P
should read that youcouldn't do Darn big fingers.
stash - Wed, Feb 16, 2022 9:26 P
Mike N... Wouldn't feel right TAKING your $$ on a sure thing. May still be a chance if Rich has his way. Besides , would YOU like the town telling you couldn't do what you want with YOUR property?
stash - Tue, Dec 21, 2021, 7:23 P
Message The Season
Merry CHRISTMAS and Happy New Year to all. And happy holidays to my non christian friends as well.
 
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MikeNaughton - Tue, Dec 21, 2021 7:58 P
Same to you, Stash!
stash - Tue, Dec 21, 2021 7:26 P
site doesn't like me . MESSAGE OF THE SEASON
newbie - Wed, Dec 8, 2021, 11:08 P
Farren
Odds on Montague getting STUCK with it? I say at least 90 %...Just saying. ED
 
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MikeNaughton - Tue, Dec 14, 2021 8:23 P
Hey, ED - wanna go for a friendly wager? You say 90% odds Montague will end up with the Farren building; I say it won't. I'll bet $10 to your $90. If Montague ends up with the building, I'll pay you; ....
MikeNaughton - Thu, Dec 9, 2021 7:31 P
We'll see. Past history may not be a good guide here -- so far, Trinity seems to want to do right by the town (within reason), unlike the owners of Strathmore and Railroad Salvage. Think good thoughts ....
stash - Thu, Nov 25, 2021, 12:06 P
Tech
How did Frankln Tech against Smith Voc?
 
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MikeNaughton - Wed, Dec 8, 2021 6:56 P
They won: 32 - 16
newbie - Sat, Oct 23, 2021, 6:47 P
Turners Falls -gfld
Any folks on here know of the time line for the repave job. A job that SHOULD have been done before the bridge by the Farren was closed. I took my old dude to an appt. last friday and got hung for over 25 mins. Thank goodness a call to his doctor held his appt. And Gfld wonders why people go north, south or east to shop. At least you can get there and PARK without paying. Thanks, ED
 
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MikeNaughton - Sat, Oct 30, 2021 8:30 P
Breaking news: https://www.recorder.com/Repaving-of-Greenfield-s-Turners-Falls-Loomis-roads-moved-to-Nov-2-43266056
newbie - Mon, Oct 25, 2021 9:48 A
Called. No more going on til paving 11/4
mik - Mon, Oct 4, 2021, 1:49 P
Facebook And Instagram Are Down?!?
I'm seeing that Instagram and Facebook are currently down (since 1:00). Guess you gotta go old school to stay in touch!
 
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JTHK - Mon, Oct 4, 2021 2:03 P
Yes. Check out downdetector.com
mik - Thu, Aug 5, 2021, 8:25 A
Rest Peace, John Aubry
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Montague Center resident, and our local mayor, John Aubry. When I lived there he was always around on his bicycle keeping me and others up to date on what was going on in the village, though you never heard it from him. If the basement light was on at the Grange, he would bike over and let me know. If a fire truck went by, he would dismount and salute. He was kind and gentle, a real patriot, and will be missed. I’m glad I knew you, John.
 
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patrick - Fri, Aug 6, 2021 8:00 A
Thanks for sharing the sad news. I will miss seeing him around town.
stash - Sat, Jul 24, 2021, 12:29 P
Computer Help
Looking for info on grouping pics from my photo file to send in an email. Best I can find is single photo sending . Thanks, Stash
 
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stash - Sat, Jul 24, 2021 1:27 P
Googled it. All set. Thanks anyway. Stash
newbie - Sun, Jul 18, 2021, 9:29 A
Millers Falls
Just checked on my old dude. He got a robo call about downtown flooding in Millers. Any info????? Find it hard to see flooding in center. All down hill. ED
 
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Sumac - Sun, Jul 18, 2021 10:57 A
Story update and video footage https://www.wwlp.com/news/local-news/franklin-county/power-shut-down-for-millers-falls-residence-due-to-major-flooding/
stash - Sun, Jul 18, 2021 10:46 A
Newbie. Just looked up flooding in millers on the net. Takes you to a link from 22 news and facebook. House at the end of Franklin St. got it bad. Main St. was covered with stuff as well. No power i ....
MikeNaughton - Sun, Jun 20, 2021, 7:55 P
Rip John Mayrand
I didn't know him well, but I remember him as someone who was willing to show up if something needed to be done. I enjoyed our chats when I'd pass him on his porch on my walks through town. I'm grateful to have known him.
 
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stash - Thu, May 13, 2021, 5:46 P
Reporter
What is up with the paper? Usually on line by this time of day on Thursdays.
 
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MikeNaughton - Thu, May 13, 2021 8:25 P
It's on now.
kjm81 - Sat, May 1, 2021, 5:48 A
Lost Dog Montague Center
Large white senior labradoodle (deaf, with hip dysplaysia)near Raus, Bookmill.

Mowers left gate to yard ajar and he got out last night. Looked for him until it got too dark to see.

Please call Kate 413-367-4010
 
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MikeNaughton - Fri, Mar 26, 2021, 7:55 P
Summer Jobs For 14-year Olds?
Does anyone know if there are summer jobs around here for 14- year olds? I know years ago they could work tobacco (and buses even came by some places to pick them up), but that was a while ago. Wondering what the current situation is. Thanks in advance for any information.
 
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newbie - Tue, Mar 9, 2021, 8:04 P
Store Closed?
Any info on what is up with the Family Dollar Store in Turners ? Is it closed for renovations or shutdown? Thanks, ED
 
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stash - Sat, Feb 20, 2021, 12:26 P
Double Standard
Got to love it. In the last couple weeks there were articles in the Greenfield Distorter how local business's have donated goodies to the hospital. They told me I COULDN"T bring in boxes of goodies for my nurses in Oncolgy. I suppose I'm not important enough. I am only a lowly patient. Stay well....
 
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Rob - Mon, Feb 1, 2021, 8:50 P
Snow Day
due to snow trash schedule will be off by a day for rest of week.

Also kids get a snow day. I guess if it is not safe for some essential people to get to the physical school then kids still get a snow day even though still in remote learning.
 
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newbie - Thu, Jan 28, 2021, 6:02 P
??????????
Hi. My old dudes computer is getting funky. He is debating going with a laptop or a chrome book. Is there reason to go with either??? I know the chrome book is a lot less costly. Thanks for the help.... Ed
 
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newbie - Fri, Feb 5, 2021 4:50 P
Mike. Mik Had my computer guy stop and check his computer. Bad ethertnet cable. Thanks again. Ed
newbie - Mon, Feb 1, 2021 6:18 P
Mike and MIK Thanks, I'll tell him when I check in later tonite. ED
PLipke - Fri, Jan 1, 2021, 3:01 P
Offering Free Canon Laser Printer Toner Cartridges, 045
2 black, 1 yellow and a cyan *unopened* high yield after-market toner cartridges for Canon Imageclass lbp634 or 632 laser printer, cartridge 045 HY. Turned out to not be compatible with my lbp612cdw. Please take 'em all.
 
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MikeNaughton - Fri, Dec 25, 2020, 9:31 A
Greetings
Same to you, Stash!
 
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stash - Thu, Dec 24, 2020, 10:27 A
Greetings
Merry CHRISTMAS to all........
 
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newbie - Fri, Dec 18, 2020, 8:40 P
?????????
Gotta love them upgrades.
 
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mik - Fri, Jan 22, 2021 11:55 A
Upgrades part 1 is done. No longer do we reply to posts with another post... we now comment on posts, similar to Facebook. other new features will continue to appear over time, but hopefully without h ....
newbie - Tue, Dec 15, 2020, 11:24 A
?????????
Did we loose the weather?????????
 
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mik - Fri, Jan 22, 2021 11:56 A
Weather Underground stopped their support for the widget we've been using since 1999. We're looking for another free weather widget service
mik - Tue, Dec 8, 2020, 10:40 A
Sad Day
Indeed. And the next day the US declared war... 79 years ago, today.
 
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stash - Mon, Dec 7, 2020, 10:22 A
Sad Day
Pearl Harbor............enough said.
 
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Denise - Tue, Nov 24, 2020, 5:57 P
Happy Anniversary Montaguema.net
Duh...I thought it was here, it's where I always check. :)
 
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MikeNaughton - Tue, Nov 24, 2020, 1:17 P
Happy Anniversary Montaguema.net
On this site, there's a blue box on the left side near the bottom that has three items:
WIRELESS HOTSPOTS
Recycling Schedule
MCTV Schedule

Hope this helps ....
 
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Denise - Tue, Nov 24, 2020, 12:16 P
Happy Anniversary Montaguema.net
I too was looking for the trash schedule for this week. It is on the town web site.Trash and Recycling Holiday Schedule
Tuesday and Wednesday remain the same. Thursday will be picked up on Friday and Friday will be picked up on Saturday.
Recycle Center will be open on regular schedule.
 
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Blessings - Mon, Nov 23, 2020, 6:11 P
Happy Anniversary Montaguema.net
Congratulations! AND . . . the new format isn't working for me. Shortcut display boxes I used to always use are gone. :(

Where is the Recycling Schedule? Thanks!
 
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stash - Sun, Nov 22, 2020, 10:49 A
Today
Any body remember where they were on this day in 1963??????????? RIP JFK
 
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mik - Thu, Nov 19, 2020, 12:22 P
Gofundme For Mark2’s Daughter
Hey, in case people hadn't heard, there was a pretty bad accident in Deerfield on November 13th. One kid died, and our very own Mark2's daughter was hospitalized in severe condition.

A GoFundMe fundraiser has been posted to help with the Downy family's expenses. Please consider donating $25 or more to help them out.

https://www.gofundme...p-praying-for-ashley
 
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MikeNaughton - Thu, Nov 12, 2020, 9:48 P
Police Community Engagement Survey
The Police Community Engagement advisory committee has posted a survey here:
https://docs.google....aQpNe332iVe5VKQYLT5s
that they're hoping will be filled out by anyone who has had interactions with Montague police. You don't have to be a Montague resident, and they're interested in everyone's experience: good, bad, or indifferent.
 
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newbie - Wed, Oct 21, 2020, 9:10 P
Pot Shop
Nope. Could fold as far as I'm concerned.
 
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MikeNaughton - Wed, Oct 21, 2020, 7:48 P
Pot Shop
Noob - I hope you're doing your part to keep the pot shop in Turners afloat. It takes a village ... :-)
 
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newbie - Tue, Oct 20, 2020, 10:57 P
Pot Shop
Holy crap. Another pot shop, just what we need. The one in Turners is suffering to stay alive . I hope the town wakes up and says no. But I'm sure all they will see is the FEW (very few ) dollars they can blow on crap like moving a stupid statue. Don't care if it is a GRANT, who do you think Pays for the grant in the end? US. Ed
 
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stash - Tue, Oct 20, 2020, 3:00 P
R.i.p.
Rest in peace Doc..
 
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MikeNaughton - Mon, Oct 19, 2020, 7:40 P
Happy Anniversary Montaguema.net
Time for a drink! :-)
 
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stash - Mon, Oct 19, 2020, 11:49 A
Fabric Shop
Just read the Reporter. Hours are in the article..
 
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stash - Mon, Oct 19, 2020, 10:44 A
Fabric Shop
Anyone know the hours /phone info for Sampson's?? Did a quick search on the net without much luck. Thanks, Stash. P.S. Congrats Mik.
 
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mik - Mon, Oct 19, 2020, 9:08 A
Happy Anniversary Montaguema.net
This website is now 21 year old. It's legal! Yay to us for keeping it going, and to all of you for continuing to come and hang out.
 
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newbie - Thu, Oct 15, 2020, 8:23 P
Ballot Drop Box
Thanks Stash. Dropped them off wed am on my way back to DC . Old Dude says Thanks as well.. ED
 
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SarahMay - Tue, Oct 13, 2020, 8:27 P
Halloween This Year?
I have heard conflicting reports about trick or treating in town this year. It seems many houses are opting out, understandably, but are some houses still planning on doing safe/staggered options? I also saw the Montague Village Store may be offering a drive through..? just wanted to see if I’d get any feedback here.
 
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stash - Tue, Oct 13, 2020, 9:41 A
Ballot Drop Box
Newbie. Just spoke with Deb and the box is still out front. Got to bring ours over as well.
 
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newbie - Sun, Oct 11, 2020, 4:41 P
Ballot Drop Box
Is the box still out front of the town hall? I'm going to be dropping off the old dude and dudette's ballots off?? Thanks, Ed
 
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stash - Thu, Sep 17, 2020, 10:53 P
Selectmans Meeting 9/14
Super. Thanks Mr. N Stash
 
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MikeNaughton - Thu, Sep 17, 2020, 8:47 P
Selectmans Meeting 9/14
I think it's here:

View on Vimeo.


 
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stash - Thu, Sep 17, 2020, 7:19 P
Selectmans Meeting 9/14
Good thing the MR covered it. Don't see it listed on MCTV. Thanks Jeff......... Stash
 
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newbie - Thu, Sep 3, 2020, 6:02 P
Spinner Park
Was down checking on my Old Dude and Dudette and we were yakking about the reason for the change needed. Last time I was by it I didn't see any major problems. Why???????? ED
 
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stash - Fri, Aug 14, 2020, 5:28 P
Bus $$$
I hope our school comm. saved the money they are not spending this year on not needing the buses . I think we should get a rebate on taxes as well . But like the rest of this town I'm sure it will be BLOWN , just to blow it. Pretty damn sad. I'm sure there is more saved with no sport buses needed as well. Time to cap the well...........
 
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stash - Sat, Aug 8, 2020, 11:34 P
Hat
Nope. Just like a good chuckle. :-)
 
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MikeNaughton - Sat, Aug 8, 2020, 8:14 P
Hat
Ho ho. So, you're a monarchist, Stash?
 
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stash - Sat, Aug 8, 2020, 5:31 P
Hat
Saw a cool hat over at the hospital, DON JR 2024..Gotta get one.
 
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newbie - Sat, Aug 8, 2020, 10:32 A
The Bomb
I hope that Pearl Harbor Day coverage is as great. Ed
 
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MikeNaughton - Wed, Aug 5, 2020, 2:26 P
Power Out Millers
Ours came back at 4 am, too. :-)
 
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stash - Wed, Aug 5, 2020, 1:23 P
Power Out Millers
Pole down by Highland Cem. so I was told by eversource at midnight. We got it back a bit after 4 this am. God bless our generator. :-).
 
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MikeNaughton - Tue, Aug 4, 2020, 8:39 P
Power Out Millers
8:10 pm
 
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stash - Tue, Jul 21, 2020, 5:16 P
Wow
Sure as he## hasn't gotten any better. When I do answer I use Millers Police, what is the nature of your emergency. Stopped about a third of the crap calls. I usually just hit block on my phone . Found out our lovely gov't does sell the do not call list. Nice of them.
 
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mik - Tue, Jul 21, 2020, 3:19 P
Wow
Found this article from a couple years back...

=======================

Yes, It's Bad. Robocalls, and Their Scams, Are Surging.

By TARA SIEGEL BERNARD, MAY 6, 2018

It's not just you.

Those pesky robocalls — at best annoying disturbances and at worst costly financial scams — are getting worse.

In an age when cellphones have become extensions of our bodies, robocallers now follow people wherever they go, disrupting business meetings, church services and bedtime stories with their children.

Though automated calls have long plagued consumers, the volume has skyrocketed in recent years, reaching an estimated 3.4 billion in April, according to YouMail, which collects and analyzes calls through its robocall blocking service. That's an increase of almost 900 million a month compared with a year ago.

Federal lawmakers have noticed the surge. Both the House and Senate held hearings on the issue within the last two weeks, and each chamber has either passed or introduced legislation aimed at curbing abuses. Federal regulators have also noticed, issuing new rules in November that give phone companies the authority to block certain robocalls.

Law enforcement authorities have noticed, too. Just the other week, the New York State attorney general, Eric T. Schneiderman, warned consumers about a scheme targeting people with Chinese last names, in which the caller purports to be from the Chinese Consulate and demands money. Since December, the New York Police Department said, 21 Chinese immigrants had lost a total of $2.5 million.

Despite these efforts, robocalls are a thorny problem to solve. Calls can travel through various carriers and a maze of networks, making it hard to pinpoint their origins, enabling the callers to evade rules. Regulators are working with the telecommunications industry to find ways to authenticate calls, which would help unmask the callers.

In the meantime, the deceptive measures have become more sophisticated. In one tactic, known as "neighborhood spoofing," robocallers use local numbers in the hope that recipients will be more likely to pick up.

It's a trick that Dr. Gary Pess, a hand surgeon in Eatontown, N.J., knows all too well. He receives so many calls that mimic his area code and the first three digits of his phone number that he no longer answers them. But having to sort robocalls from emergency calls has cost him precious minutes.

Dr. Pess recounted an incident in which he didn't recognize a number and figured it was a robocall. He later learned it was an emergency room doctor calling about a person who had severed a thumb that he wanted Dr. Pess to reattach. "It delayed the treatment of a patient," he said.

Consumer advocates say they worry the flood of calls could get even worse. A federal court ruling recently struck down a Barack Obama-era definition of an auto-dialer, leaving it to the Federal Communications Commission to come up with new guidance. Advocates fear that it will open up the field to even more robocallers, leaving consumers with little recourse.

Business groups, including the Consumer Bankers Association, counter that defining auto-dialers too broadly would hurt legitimate businesses trying to reach their customers.

Robocallers see the current F.C.C. leadership "as friendly to industry," said Margot Saunders, senior counsel at the National Consumer Law Center, "and they are anticipating F.C.C. rulings that will enable more calling and forgive past mistakes — or violations of the current law."

A spokesman for the F.C.C. said the commission would seek public comment on how auto-dialers should be defined, and then "take action based on the record it compiles."

---------------------------------------
Rising Complaints

Complaints about telemarketers and scammers have steadily increased in recent years, with robocalls identified in the majority of cases.

Robocaller Live caller
2013 2.2m 1.5
2014 1.7 1.4
2015 2.1 1.4
2016 3.4 1.9
2017 4.5 2.6
By The New York Times | Source: Federal Trade Commission
---------------------------------------

Automated calls are increasing because they are cheap and easy to make. Robocallers can easily dial millions of consumers daily, experts say, at little cost.

That's essentially what one accused robocaller recently told legislators at a Senate hearing: Adrian Abramovich, a Miami man who regulators say made nearly 100 million "spoofed" robocalls, was peddling vacation packages that were advertised as coming from well-known companies like Marriott. But when consumers pressed to hear more, they were transferred to foreign call centers often trying to sell time shares, according to the F.C.C., which is seeking a $120 million fine. Mr. Abramovich has denied the charges and asked the regulator to reduce the penalty.

The calls are increasing despite stepped-up enforcement and other efforts to stamp them out, which some have likened to a game of Whac-a-Mole; robocallers find new phone numbers to hide behind once their numbers are ignored or blocked.

The federal Do Not Call List, which is supposed to help consumers avoid robocalls, instead resembles a tennis net trying to stop a flood. The list may prevent some (but not all) legitimate companies from calling people on the list, but it does little to deter fraudsters and marketers, some of them overseas, who are willing to take their chances and flout the law.

Complaints to federal regulators are also increasing sharply. The Federal Trade Commission, which oversees the Do Not Call Registry, said there were 4.5 million complaints about robocalls in 2017, more than double the 2.18 million complaints logged in 2013.

"Everywhere I go, it is what people talk about," said Denise Grimsley, a Republican member of the Florida Senate, who said a woman named Elizabeth leaves her prerecorded messages several times daily selling a vacation package.

"But it's not just annoying," she added. "They are coming after your personal information."

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How Robocallers Try to Defraud You
Estimated volumes of top phone scams in March 2018.

Category Type Volume
Interest rates "0% interest rates" 122.9m
Credit cards "Problem with your credit card" 82.5m
Student loans "Forgive/lower student debt" 71.0m
Business loans "Preapproved for business loan" 53.4m
I.R.S. "Owe money to the I.R.S." 43.4m
Search listings "Listing has a problem" 31.0m
Travel "Free/discount trip" 27.0m
Preapproved loans "Ready to wire – just need info" 26.2m
Home security "Free service/installation" 26.1m
Utilities "Save money – need your info" 19.2m
Source: YouMail
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Florida passed a bill in March giving phone companies the authority to block certain robocalls.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2018/00962

Other efforts are underway. The Federal Trade Commission has held contests to encourage app developers to create innovative ways to block calls. And some phone companies offer blocking services, though "many people don't have access to free, effective robo-blocking tools," said Maureen Mahoney, a policy analyst at Consumers Union.

With some exceptions — like calls from schools on snow days — auto-dialed calls to mobile phones are typically illegal, unless a person has given prior consent. Advocates say courts have generally interpreted the law to say that when a consumer revokes that consent, the calls must stop — though they often don't.

The same rules apply to creditors seeking to collect debts, which lawyers and advocates say can be some of the most ruthless dialers.

There are fewer restrictions on landlines, unless you're on the Do Not Call list, but prerecorded telemarketing calls are always illegal without written consent, advocates say, and debt collectors must stop calling after consumers send a written request.

James Hunter, a Florida resident who is paralyzed below the waist and can no longer work, had his federal student loans forgiven. But Navient, the giant company that services and collects student debt, made more than 2,500 automated calls to him about his private loans over a period of about two years, sometimes calling nine times a day, according to Mr. Hunter's lawyer, who filed a suit on his behalf claiming Navient acted illegally.

Navient did not immediately comment.

For now, consumers must do their best to find ways to control the wave of calls. Brett Hein, a sports editor at a newspaper in Ogden, Utah, said that for him it was a losing battle. His mobile phone has been inundated with calls in recent weeks, rousting him from bed and twice interrupting him while he was volunteering in his son's kindergarten class.

"It's disconcerting to have your phone go off all the time," Mr. Hein said from a landline in his office, when his mobile phone began to ring.

It was another robocall. The fifth one that day.

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A version of this article appears in print on May 6, 2018, on Page A1 of the New York edition with the headline: Yes, Those Calls You're Ignoring Are Increasing.

ALSO READ: "Robocalls Flooding Your Cellphone? Here's How to Stop Them" https://www.nytimes..../stop-robocalls.html
 
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JTHK - Mon, Jul 6, 2020, 6:38 P
Wild Berries?
Definitely a good point. That said, perhaps some private message can happen with a few locals. :)
 
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Blessings - Mon, Jul 6, 2020, 6:18 P
Wild Berries?
Ed, that is a good point. I don't think of montaguema.net as "the internet" anymore. Most traffic has moved to Facebook, networks like NextDoor and montague-mutual-aid; etc. Usually I post in "Buy Sell & Jobs" or "Real Estate", and have the sense few others see (or read) the posts. When I wrote this one, I was envisioning those "Reply" emails coming straight back to me via email. I wasn't even remembering that responses would show up on this page!

Thanks.
 
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newbie - Sun, Jul 5, 2020, 10:28 A
Wild Berries?
Not being a smart butt,But who in thier right mind would post the location of berry spots on the internet? How many berries would be left? Most are found in the woods.. :-) Ed
 
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Blessings - Fri, Jul 3, 2020, 8:21 P
Wild Berries?
WHERE TO PICK WILD BERRIES?
Seeking help to find places where one person can considerately pick some raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and/or wild grapes -- when each of these appears this summer (& fall?). Either publicly accessible trails, etc., or if you have more on your own land than you need, I will be grateful!

I definitely want to do NO harm to land or vegetation anywhere.

I feel that berry craving, and the nutritional need for them. But it's not good for the budget to buy organic berries at current prices. And I'm trying hard to reduce my consumption of plastic packaging, which is sometimes part of the picture!

Thank you so much for any leads or invites!

I hope everyone is feeling safe and well. <3
 
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MikeNaughton - Thu, Jul 2, 2020, 9:09 P
Changes
A quick check of Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia...Falls,_Massachusetts) suggests that there is no obvious problem with Millers Falls. They agree that the original name was Grout's Corner, but somehow to me that seems like something you do when you make over a bathroom. . . . :-)
 
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MikeNaughton - Mon, Jun 29, 2020, 8:28 P
Changes
Yeah -- I wonder: where did Rodney's Corner come from? I never heard that one before.
 
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stash - Mon, Jun 29, 2020, 7:32 P
Changes
Not on my end , BUT Rodney's Corner as suggested. I just stated the true name. Even Rand McNaly agrees.
 
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MikeNaughton - Sat, Jun 27, 2020, 9:19 P
Changes
Is there a problem with still calling here Millers Falls?
 
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stash - Thu, Jun 25, 2020, 8:57 P
Changes
I see in the Reporter that folks want to change the town name. The Falls works for me. Grouts Corner for Millers Falls ( the real name by the way ) the rest shouldn't put any panties in a knot.
 
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MikeNaughton - Fri, Jun 19, 2020, 3:20 P
Reporter
I did get mine today.
 
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stash - Fri, Jun 19, 2020, 10:51 A
Reporter
Any one else NOT get the paper?????
 
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newbie - Thu, Jun 18, 2020, 11:59 A
Wow
Hi. Not my Dad, an old friend. He also has nomorobo on his phone. That is also a joke. His home phone announces the caller so that helps. His cell is only on when they are out and about. Only gets them on that once or twice a month. Ed
 
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mik - Wed, Jun 17, 2020, 3:40 P
Wow
Newbie, I agree with you on the spam calls. I still can't believe the carriers allow the calls through, since (a) it takes up their valuable resources, and (b) we don't want the calls!

The federal Do Not Call is a voluntary list, and some spammers actually grab the list and use it to make calls! So, it's not a resource anyone really uses anymore. It was built for legit businesses to purge their own call lists.

I have Verizon for my cell phone (not sure if your dad is on a cell or not), and they've introduced a new system where you get the name of the people calling, if they're legit or the number is real and actually registered with them, and "POTENTIAL SPAM" if not.

There are also apps you can install, like Mr. Number and RoboKiller, which I use. When a call comes in from a known spammer number, it blocks the call and you never hear it ring.

They'll get it right one of these days... either the carriers (Verizon, AT&T, etc), or the phone makers / software vendors.
 
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newbie - Wed, Jun 17, 2020, 12:18 P
Wow
I was at my old Dudes this morning and he got 5 crap calls. The new law on crap calls is the biggest joke since Trump. How can you report a number that doesn't excist (sp)? Wonder how many political hacks got jobs on do not call. ED
 
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MikeNaughton - Tue, Jun 16, 2020, 9:05 A
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
Most full-time town employees are represented by unions (and most of the rest have contracts that mirror union agreements), and those contracts provide for annual raises. Those raises do account for most of the police budget increase. You can see all the details here: https://montague-ma....Y21_Budget_File.xlsx (look for the "211 Police" tab. You can also find the details on all the other budgets, along with a lot of other information (this is the main file used by the finance committee in its budget deliberations). This file is found on the town's web site here: https://montague-ma.gov/p/374/, along with a bunch of other useful files.

IMHO, simple budget reductions (or increases) are a heavy-handed way of changing how departments operate. Ideally, they would come at the end of a process, not the beginning. In this case, I think it's clear that a lot of town meeting members would like to see changes in how policing is done in Montague; however, it was a close vote, so it wasn't an overwhelming mandate for change.

Instead, I see it as a mandate (opportunity) for town leaders and community members to begin substantive conversations about policing in Montague could or should be different. The success (or not) of that effort will depend (as so many efforts do) on who is willing to step up and be part of that process.
 
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PlusOne318 - Tue, Jun 16, 2020, 7:55 A
Found Cat
Found cat on Old Sunderland Rd. 6/14. If this is your cat, contact fadge318@gmail.com.
 
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Rob - Mon, Jun 15, 2020, 10:10 P
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
I had hoped when I asked the police chief for the reason for the request for increased funding that he would have given a more robust answer. Saying "contractual obligations" must not have been compelling for most 38-35. I expect the chief to be back at next special town meeting asking for his more money for his budget but with more detail. But I guess the town of Montague sent a "message" with the budget amendment but I don't know to whom they were addressing it to.
 
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Blessings - Mon, Jun 15, 2020, 8:44 P
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
Mike Naughton, I think your overall question to our police dept. about how they view, and intend to respond, to the questions and proposed changes being raised nationally, is important to ask -- although I hold that the "answers" are not known yet, and will come from public forums as well as smaller conversations among community members and police.

The way you pose the question is respectful. I wish I had realized any of this was being discussed on montaguema.net, prior to Town Meeting. A clear presentation of the components of P.D. budget was not requested as part of the discussion, and I wish it had been. I see no evidence that we have any "extra" or "fat" in our budget. Montague could hardly be more different from L.A. or Minneapolis, in terms of these issues. I do think public conversations need to be deep and honest regarding problems that do exist, or any incidents that have occurred, that are sub-par and need improvement.

Restructuring the responsibilities of public-safety officers, AS WELL AS teachers and school staff, so that social services resources can handle counseling, conflict resolution, domestic abuse, and addiction interventions -- taking the lion's share of this work off the backs of police and schools -- would be a dream come true for so many of us!

The money to provide these alternatives, at a robust enough level, is not something we can raise from taxes locally. I believe we need a Federal government that taxes income at the rates of the Eisenhower years, and returns the lion's share to communities for infrastructure and human needs. A graduated income tax at the state level would help, as well.

You were missed at Town Meeting, Mike, and I hope you and your family are all safe and well.
~Ariel
 
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MikeNaughton - Tue, Jun 9, 2020, 6:19 P
Upgrading The Website
Two comments, now that I've used it a little:

* the "Message" box for creating new posts is very small -- 3 5/8" wide by 3/4" high on my monitor. Makes it impossible to see a post that's more than a few words, which makes proof-reading and editing cumbersome. Can it be made bigger?

* The "Submit Post" button is way down at the bottom. If you're replying to a long message, you have to scroll down to find it. Could it be located nearer the top?

Thanks,
 
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MikeNaughton - Tue, Jun 9, 2020, 11:58 A
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
One wayis that on Article 6, the omnibus general budget article, someone could raise a question about the police budget, asking something along the lines of, "How will this money be used to address the issues raised by recent demonstrations in Montague and around the country?" I would suggest giving Chief Williams and the selectboard and town administrator a heads up beforehand (say, by emailing them this week) that the question will be asked, so they have a chance to prepare. My idea is that it's best not to blind-side them -- give them as good a chance as possible to answer the question, and then see what they say.

I would do this myself, but, after a lot of thought, I've decided not to attend the meeting. Long story short, I'm in a high-risk category, as are members of my family, and that comes first. It wasn't an easy decision -- I think this will be the first annual meeting that I've missed in 20 years -- but it seems like the right one. So I'm hoping that someone who does go will decide to do this.
 
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MCLP - Tue, Jun 9, 2020, 10:25 A
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
I also would like to hear from the police department. What steps could we take prior to Saturday to make that happen?
 
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Sarah - Tue, Jun 9, 2020, 10:07 A
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
Thanks for raising this Mike. I agree. I'd like to hear the police department respond to the national movement for police accountability and restructuring that best supports community health and safety.
 
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MikeNaughton - Tue, Jun 9, 2020, 8:57 A
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
18 articles in an hour is a little over three minutes per article. It would take longer than that just to read some of them.

Your questions about the town hall annex are good ones. I'm hoping someone will ask some questions about how the police budget is spent. I think it would be a good opportunity for the chief and/or the police commissioners (aka selectboard) to publicly acknowledge that they understand the concerns of the recent protesters and to explain how the department and the town are addressing them.
 
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Rob - Mon, Jun 8, 2020, 9:39 P
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
my first question would be if Deerfield can handle 26 warrant questions in an hour, can we do it too?
Actually article 17, do we really want to allow the town hall annex to be sold? I can understand leasing but selling? How would this affect parking?
 
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MikeNaughton - Mon, Jun 8, 2020, 9:13 P
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
Are any of you town meeting members? Are you planning to ask questions on Saturday?
 
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stash - Mon, Jun 8, 2020, 8:37 P
Meeting
Somebody WOKE up......................
 
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stash - Mon, Jun 8, 2020, 8:34 P
Meeting
Who the heck is running the show at MCTV? Shut down the selectboard and go to the stupid skate park video. Time to bring back GCTV??????????????
 
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Nico - Mon, Jun 8, 2020, 11:54 A
Join Today’s Rally Montague Center Common
End White Silence Rally at Montague Common Monday at 4 PM.

We will be lining up along both sides of Main Street for an hour or so - at good physical distance from each other.

Bring a sign or come as early as 3 and there will be sign-making materials available.

If you're wondering "why Montague" -- here is a piece by "Standing Up for Racial Justice" outlining the usefulness of small/village-level/non-Black public support and organizing. https://medium.com/@...iolence-2bb907ba5277
 
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stash - Fri, May 29, 2020, 5:37 P
Logging Near Water Dept
What is going on there. Looks like there may be something getting built as well. Stash
 
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Nico - Thu, May 21, 2020, 12:46 P
Upgrading The Website
Nice to see the changes! One thing missing that (I think) we all use a lot -- the recycling link!
 
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Montague-Palooza Calendar
LEGO at Carnegie Library
Wed, September 27
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

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Carnegie Playgroup
Thu, September 28
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Carnegie Story Time
Sat, September 30
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

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Gardening Presentation
Mon, October 2
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

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LEGO at Carnegie Library
Wed, October 4
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

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Carnegie Playgroup
Thu, October 5
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Carnegie Story Time
Sat, October 7
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

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LEGO at Carnegie Library
Wed, October 11
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

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Outdoor Concert
Wed, October 11
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

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Carnegie Playgroup
Thu, October 12
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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Carnegie Story Time
Sat, October 14
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

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Friends Meeting
Mon, October 16
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM

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Gardening Presentation
Mon, October 16
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

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LEGO at Carnegie Library
Wed, October 18
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

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MC Library Author Series
Wed, October 18
6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

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Carnegie Playgroup
Thu, October 19
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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Kitchen Wizardry
Thu, October 19
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

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Carnegie Story Time
Sat, October 21
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

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Falls Fest on Avenue A
Sat, October 21
1:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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LEGO at Carnegie Library
Wed, October 25
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

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Carnegie Playgroup
Thu, October 26
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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MC Library Book Club
Thu, October 26
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

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Carnegie Story Time
Sat, October 28
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

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Kids Halloween Party
Sat, October 28
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

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