When Southbridge Firefighter Rob Barton, the father of young twin boys, received a box of about 100 novelty cigarette lighters from the Maine state fire marshal, he was able to find toys in his house that matched 30 of the lighters.

WORCESTER - With less than two weeks go to before the primary election that will whittle their field from six to one, candidates for the 13th Worcester District state representative seat sharpened their messages and their attacks at a debate last night at the Willows on Barry Road.

David Bombard's inability to drive his car - following the recent installation of an ignition interlock device - is a collateral punishment he will have to endure.

WORCESTER - An effort to make major changes to when and how long elementary school recess is held was watered down last night, but the School Committee agreed to ask principals to consider having at least 30 minutes of recess and to consider having it before lunch.

SHREWSBURY - The owner of a dog that attacked two other dogs and a resident said she is willing to get training for herself and her dog.