Town elections to take place Monday for Athol, Royalston and Petersham

Sportsman's Corner: The loss of a pet

In my lifetime, this writer has seen a significant difference in the status of animals, particularly dogs and cats. Growing up in Orange, most families seemed to have pet dogs and cats. Hunting dogs in my scope of experience were pets that were trained to hunt birds or rabbits, and there would commonly be a […]

My Turn: Are we focusing on the wrong enemies?

The Atlantic has published a story called “The Men Who Don’t Want Women to Vote,” by Helen Lewis, in its June edition. I found it online. It’s thought-provoking. Where to start in processing those thoughts? It was easy to reject the ideology of the right-wing figures Lewis interviews or describes. These are mostly men, like […]

‘Much more than just a kitchen’: Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center celebrates 25th anniversary

The Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center, a part of the Franklin County Community Development Corporation, is celebrating its 25th anniversary of helping small businesses in the area. The center provides a range of services, including creating products, offering guidance with business plans, and providing financial sustainability. The center has assisted around 800 businesses, including Hot Oven Cookies, Stout Pigeon Coffee, and Emma's Market, and has been recognized as an economic engine and lifeline to small businesses in the area.

Clark Memorial YMCA to hold 30th annual Winchendon Summer Solstice Celebration

WINCHENDON – The Wendell P. Clark Memorial YMCA will hold its 30th annual Winchendon Summer Solstice Celebration this Saturday. The timing couldn’t be better since, according to the U.S. Naval Observatory, summer will officially begin at 10:22 p.m. Saturday evening. The Clark is located at 155 Central St. in Winchendon with most of the day’s […]

Health insurers blame high drug costs for double-digit premium hikes in Massachusetts

Health insurers in Massachusetts are planning double-digit premium hikes for next year, citing rising costs associated with pharmaceutical spending and steep provider reimbursement rates. The proposed increases have been deemed excessive by regulators, who are urging insurers and providers to return to the negotiating table. The merged market, which includes individuals and small businesses, could see an average premium spike of 12.9% in 2027, according to proposals submitted to the Division of Insurance.