Sunday hunting ban opponents make big push for change

McGovern unveils bill to rein in seed monopolies

U.S. Congressmen Jim McGovern and Greg Casar introduced the Fair Seeds for Farmers Act, a bill seeking to limit seed patents and protect farmers' rights to save and share seeds from large agricultural conglomerates.

GCC to train weatherization technicians using modified shipping containers

Greenfield Community College is set to relaunch its weatherization technician training program next month following the installation of new specialized labs housed in shipping containers.

Athol Select Board approves removal, sale of Bates Powers Dam

The Athol Select Board has authorized Town Manager Shaun Suhoski to sell or remove the Bates Powers Dam. While the town previously held off on disposal, neighbor city Phillipston recently declined to take ownership or fund rehabilitation. A conceptual removal plan costing between $600,000 and $800,000 has been developed, with potential state involvement scheduled for next spring.

Markey’s bill to extend Temporary Protected Status for Haitians blocked

U.S. Sen. Ed Markey vowed to continue fighting for Haitian Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders after U.S. Sen. Eric Schmitt blocked a legislative attempt to extend the program's protections.

Athol Police Logs, July 25, 2026

Friday, July 3 11:26 a.m. Police were called about a party possibly under the influence, described as a white male, with possibly pink pants, a backpack and a hat. 12:30 p.m. A party called to report a possible scam. A male party is renting out a listed building and the caller believes he may not be the owner. 12:41 p.m. A party reported an […]