15+ hour, 7+ min ago   (641+ words) LOWELL — Jeff Markley has been building data centers since 1991. Some 35 years later, he still is, but is concerned that opposition to the technology is challenging the commonwealth’s ability to remain competitive and relevant into the 21st century. “If Massachusetts wants to…...

2+ day, 4+ hour ago   (533+ words) From using artificial intelligence to reduce the state’s notorious traffic to canceling the midcentury net-zero emissions commitment and temporarily suspending the state gas tax when pump prices climb, Mike Minogue began Thursday to detail his “Blueprint for a Better Future....

2+ day, 3+ hour ago   (529+ words) FITCHBURG — Pride echoed through Weston Auditorium at Fitchburg State University on Wednesday, where the university celebrated its newest police academy graduates, all of whom are already headed to municipal police departments across Massachusetts. The 9th Recruit Officer Course members proudly completed…...

2+ day, 1+ hour ago   (275+ words) DEAR PET TALK: A skunk has taken up residence on my enclosed porch, and I didn’t advertise for a roommate — help! I love wildlife, but not so close. — Animal Lover At A Distance DEAR ANIMAL LOVER AT A DISTANCE: Ouch!...

2+ day, 2+ hour ago   (162+ words) Darla is a little rascal — a large mixed-breed (38 pounds) who definitely has some bully in her. She arrived at Lowell Humane Society with her sister, Ruby, who has since been adopted. She is a sweet and smart dog, and since…...

2+ day, 1+ hour ago   (1645+ words) Sunday Morning Bird Walk: 8 a.m.; Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, 113 Goodnow Road. Register at massaudubon.org. Nordic Walking: 8 a.m.; Finnish Center at Saima Park, 67 Scott Rd, Fitchburg. Bring poles if you have them. The Kelly Girls: 2-4 p.m.; Leominster Public Library, 30 West St. Enjoy songs…...

3+ day, 9+ hour ago   (477+ words) It is clear we have become very comfortable paying for things built for and around our interests. Though local journalism is far more personal than its national counterparts, few of my students, if any, would identify it as personal. In…...

4+ day, 2+ hour ago   (217+ words) The new sign is part of a project to construct welcome signs at key gateways in the region to boost civic pride and serve as a positive first impression for visitors. “One North Central, our regional economic development plan, is…...

4+ day, 2+ hour ago   (193+ words) TOWNSEND — Area residents will gather on the Townsend Common Friday, Sept. 18, to honor American prisoners of war and those still missing in action. Townsend VFW Post 6538 and its Auxiliary will hold a candlelight POW/MIA Recognition Ceremony beginning at 6:15 p.m....

5+ day, 2+ hour ago   (216+ words) FITCHBURG — The community is invited to attend the fourth annual Lowe Park Chalk Art Festival this coming weekend. The event on Saturday, Sept. 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lowe Playground, 174 Elm St., will once again feature art, music, food, prizes,…...