North Quabbin Notes, March 11, 2026

Jim Smith honored with Margaret Grazis Citizen of the Year Award in Athol

Jim Smith, a resident of Athol, was awarded the Margaret Grazis Citizen of the Year Award for his dedication to community service and being a good neighbor. Smith has served on numerous committees and was praised for his thoughtful leadership, pragmatism and commitment to the town's future. He has also been recognized for his acts of kindness, including helping a neighbor whose husband was ill.

Despite statewide decline, opioid deaths remain level in Franklin County, North Quabbin

Opioid-related overdose deaths in Massachusetts dropped below 1,000 individuals in 2025 for the first time since 2013, but statistics for Franklin County and the North Quabbin region remained level, with 12 deaths in 2024 and 2025 — still representing a 75% decline from 2021.

Healey throws support behind happy hour in pursuit of ‘vibrancy’

BOSTON — Fresh off signing a law to let cities and towns across the state extend last call for two months this summer, Gov. Maura Healey has thrown her support behind another liquor law expansion.  Healey said on WEEI 93.7 FM last week that she “personally” supports happy hour — which allows for specifically discounted alcohol […]

Franklin Tech superintendent retires early following complaints over religious remarks in graduation speech

Richard Martin, Franklin County Technical School superintendent, retired early after the School Committee received complaints regarding religious remarks made during the May 28 commencement ceremony.

Palmer named president and CEO of Newspapers of New England

NORTHAMPTON — Shawn Palmer, publisher of the Daily Hampshire Gazette, Greenfield Recorder and Athol Daily News, is set to add being president and chief executive officer of Newspapers of New England to his responsibilities. Palmer on July 5 officially succeeds Chuck Goodrich, who is retiring after five years in the role for the family-owned company […]