Four more initiative petitions clear signature hurdle for 2026 ballot

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 […]

Taste of Community fundraiser to be held Sunday at Athol's Uptown Common

ATHOL – The Community Bridge Fund will host the Taste of Community fundraiser Sunday at Uptown Common to benefit local families and individuals in need. The event will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature tacos, desserts, refreshing treats and live music. Organizers encourage visitors to bring lawn chairs or picnic […]

Mount Holyoke to close language center amid budget cuts

SOUTH HADLEY — A study spot. A movie theater. A cozy lounge area. A tutoring center. A classroom. One room at Mount Holyoke College’s Ciruti Language Center encompassed it all. The Language and Cultural Commons is one of the only language centers in the Five College Consortium. It helps students fulfilling their language requirement find […]

New Salem’s Carol Hillman named the sole Franklin County recipient of 2026 Commonwealth Heroine Award

Ninety-nine-year-old New Salem resident Carol Hillman was named a 2026 Commonwealth Heroine, making her the sole recipient from Franklin County in the largest class to date.