Valley Advocate

Building a new tradition of shared, platonic love: Locals redefine intimacy through floral workshops, community swaps and the enduring power of showing up

By Melissa Karen Sances For the Valley Advocate Sixteen years ago, Newton-born actress Amy Poehler’s character, Leslie Knope, ...
Valley Advocate

Back Porch Festival returns with 60-plus performers at 12 Northampton venues

The roots music festival Back Porch Festival will return for its 12th year from Friday, March 27, to Sunday, March 29, with more than 60 performers at 12 venues throughout downtown Northampton. Two of ...
Valley Advocate

‘I have to be my own role model’: Indë Francis launches new album, which explores identity and self-discovery

Growing up in western Massachusetts, local musician and “artivist” Indë Francis, who performs mononymously as Indë, lacked role models who could help them understand their identities. Now, with their ...
Valley Advocate

Heavy metal meets mutual ownership at new Easthampton venue

By Sam Ferland For the Valley Advocate Most new businesses use scissors at ribbon cuttings to celebrate opening. When that ...
Valley Advocate

‘One of indie-rock’s finest’: Cass McCombs takes the stage at The Iron Horse in Northampton

By Carolyn Brown For the Valley Advocate Singer-songwriter Cass McCombs has gotten his fair share of critical acclaim. The ...
Valley Advocate

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