My Turn: Arts are the blessings of liberty

Athol considers raising liquor and car dealership license fees

The Athol Select Board is considering increasing liquor and car dealership license fees, some of which have remained unchanged for 60 years. Town officials noted that Athol currently charges some of the lowest rates compared to 11 neighboring communities. While board members acknowledged potential economic strain on local businesses, the board plans to vote on the proposed increases during its scheduled Aug. 18 meeting.

Sportsman's Corner: 5-Stand at Petersham Gun Club

Shotgun target shooting has evolved a long way since it began as live pigeon shooting in England in the 18th century. Shooters shot at live pigeons released from cages called “traps” and that is how it came to be called trap shooting. It became popular in the United States and different aspects were added, including […]

‘I wouldn’t trade it for the world’: Veterans, honored with Quilts of Valor in Orange, reflect on service

Two veterans, Doug McIntosh and Scott Hemlin, were honored with Quilts of Valor during a North Orange Grange meeting in May. These handmade textiles, crafted by Nancy Blackmer, serve as expressions of gratitude for the men's military service. McIntosh, a former Air Force radio intercept supervisor, and Hemlin, a retired Marine corporal, both expressed deep appreciation for the recognition of their sacrifices.

North Quabbin residents ready for Pan-Mass Challenge

North Quabbin residents are preparing for the annual Pan-Mass Challenge, a charity bike-athon benefiting the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. For over a decade, the Bolandrina family has supported the event through various volunteer roles, driven by personal connections to cancer research. Additionally, Phillipston resident Andrew Laughlin is set to complete the nearly 200-mile route to honor loved ones impacted by the disease.

Guest column: State conserved lands benefit everyone: Local communities should be fairly compensated for their stewardship

Overview: The Athol Downtown Vitality Committee met on July 14 to discuss alternatives to Fourth Friday festivals, which were canceled due to planned paving. Members proposed a potential sidewalk sale and suggested expanding the annual River Rat Race with food trucks and children's activities to support local businesses. Town Manager Shaun Suhoski advised focusing on […]