A Look Back, Oct. 11

Published: 10-10-2024 11:01 PM

50 Years Ago

■Irving Jacobs, the new superintendent of Northampton State Hospital, assumed his job here on May 1 with little fanfare. A 45-year-old clinical psychologist, he replaced Harry Goodman, the former superintendent who retired last year.

■Northampton High School principal John J. Feeney said last night that the high school needs a new gymnasium, cafeteria, and computer science room. He said the school will be examined this spring for purposes of reaccreditation, and that expansion of the cafeteria and physical education facilities may be required.

25 Years Ago

■A new survey’s results mean bar owners in Northampton won’t need to pack away ashtrays anytime soon. Health Agent Peter McErlain said this week that while the Board of Health has not closed the door on discussing a ban on smoking in city bars, it sees no urgency now to push for one.

■Forbes Library is expected to open on Sundays next month to provide high schoolers with additional access while the school’s own library is under construction. Trustees voted this week to accept money needed for the extra hours from the Friends of Forbes Library support group.

10 Years Ago

■University of Massachusetts president Robert L. Caret said Thursday that he is opposed to UMass police using students as drug-case informants, particularly if they have been arrested and are pressured by legal and personal worries. However, he said a review of the policy might change his opinion. “I’m keeping an open mind.”

■An educator and mother of four is the newest member of the Northampton School Committee. Laura Fallon, 42, of 12 Massasoit St., received 10 of 17 votes Thursday night to fill the Ward 2 position left vacant when Andrew Shelffo resigned in early September.