My Turn: Make algae green again — the reflecting pool fiasco

New tracker shows progress toward housing production goal in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has added 34,561 homes in 2025, representing 15.6% of the state's goal of adding 222,000 housing units between 2025 and 2035, according to a new statewide housing production tracker.

Nurses call for safety measures after statewide survey highlights increasing reports of workplace violence

One in four nurses in Massachusetts report feeling unsafe at work, with 74% of nurses in community hospitals saying workplace violence is a serious problem, and the Massachusetts Nurses Association is supporting a bill to require health care workers to develop and implement programs to prevent workplace violence.

Judge orders owner of 465 Main St. to pay $50,000 fine for code violations

ATHOL – Judge Timothy Sullivan of the state’s Housing Court Central Division has given the owner of 465 Main St. until Oct. 1 to pay the town of Athol $50,000 for failing to address various code violations at the property. The judge handed down his decision following a hearing on June 17 which property owner […]

Athol Select Board approves Lord Pond Plaza name change

The Athol Select Board has voted to change the name of Lord Pond Plaza to Mill Brook Crossing, with Vice Chair Marc Maxwell opposing the decision. The name change was supported by over 56% of the 291 people who responded to an online survey, as well as the Historical Commission and Downtown Vitality Committee. The redevelopment of the site includes daylighting the Mill Brook, creating wetlands, green space and pollinator gardens.

North Quabbin Notebook: July 9, 2026

Series of events on tap at Wheeler Memorial Library ORANGE — Wheeler Memorial Library at 49 East River St. invites the community to a series of events this month. “The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie” will be screened on Thursday, July 9, from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. Local magician Ed the Wizard will perform his comedy and […]