Greater Worcester

The Department of Education will resume debt collections for federal student loan borrowers on Monday, during a critical moment for higher education and affordability in Massachusetts and across the country.

The U.S. economy slightly contracted in the first quarter, confirming that both economic weakness and federal revenue uncertainties are ongoing concerns for state budget writers. The size of the contraction in the state economy might have been even larger, according to one local expert.

Prominent Worcester eatery O’Connor’s Restaurant & Bar reopened on Thursday, after posting on social media on Saturday that it would close temporarily due to staffing shortages.

Two Central Massachusetts community colleges have secured a slice of $1.5 million in state grant funding to train workers in the healthcare and IT industries.

Framingham Union has until May 9 to prepare a plan explaining how the hospital’s special care nursery services will be maintained for the residents of its service area.

The House wrapped up work on a nearly $61.5 billion fiscal year 2026 budget plan after two and a half days of proceedings that added tens of millions of dollars in spending and spotlighted fault lines on a series of broader policy issues.

Niche Hospitality Group, the Worcester-based restaurant group behind businesses like The Fix Burger Bar and Bocado Tapas Wine Bar, is set to open two new restaurants in the city.

In addition to having the ability to make employees feel empowered, there are also financial benefits to starting an employee-owned business or converting an existing business.

Raise Up says the 2,642 ultra-wealthy individuals delineated in the report represent 0.04% of the Massachusetts population, and collectively hold $500.4 billion in total wealth.

"One last thing I'll leave you with: The state of Arkansas, in March, just passed a comprehensive [cognitive rehabilitation therapy] bill. And if Arkansas can do it, I'm absolutely positive Massachusetts will be doing it soon," the Holden Republican said, drawing chuckles from the committee and attendees.