OPINION

May 13 2026OPINION

New York needs to step up for veterans' mental health care

Veterans in New York face a growing mental health crisis, with suicide rates far higher than the general population. Last year saw the highest veteran suicide rate in over two decades - nearly 25 per 100, 000 people compared to just 19. 8 the year before. That's more than double the rate for non-vet

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May 13 2026OPINION

Gas taxes in the spotlight as prices climb and budgets shrink

Governments worldwide are cutting fuel taxes to ease pain at the pump, but critics warn these quick fixes could backfire. Temporary breaks in gas taxes, seen in some U. S. states and European nations, might sound like good news for drivers but they shrink funds for roads and bridges. That money gap

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May 12 2026OPINION

Faith, Politics, and the Tightrope Jewish Communities Walk

Jewish groups often debate how to balance their values with political involvement. Some argue faith leaders should stay out of politics entirely. Others believe religious spaces should be used to push political agendas. But history shows mixing religion and politics too closely can backfire—even whe

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May 11 2026OPINION

Life’s Simple Lessons from a Tiny Fire

A quiet spark in the backyard of an old farm turned into a powerful reminder that small actions can grow into big lessons. The blaze began when a stray ember from a barbecue landed on dry leaves, quickly spreading across the grass. Neighbors who heard the crackle rushed to help, bringing bucke

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May 11 2026OPINION

Finding Light After Loss

The day that once felt ordinary now carries a heavier meaning. In the past, celebrating Mother’s Day meant messy breakfasts and simple gifts for loved ones. This year it becomes a visit to a memorial bench, followed by watching the sunset at a nature center. The summer of 2024 brought two dev

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May 11 2026OPINION

Stability Over Speculation: Why Worcester Needs Rent Limits

Rent control in Worcester has become a shouting match, with one side saying housing is a right and the other warning that any rule will kill growth. The real issue is how landlords treat apartments: as long‑term homes or quick profits. The upcoming ballot question only touches buildings with five o

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May 11 2026OPINION

Looking back at future visions today

People often wonder what tomorrow will bring. History shows that many past predictions about the future miss the mark completely. Some ideas from science fiction have become real, while others remain far from reach. What does this say about how we imagine progress? It suggests we should question our

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May 10 2026OPINION

How to Write a Local Letter That Gets Read

A local newspaper keeps its readers informed by publishing letters from community members. The paper’s policy is clear: every letter must stay within the town’s borders, be no longer than 400 words, and include a phone number for follow‑up. The address is listed on the website and in print, and lett

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May 10 2026OPINION

Different Paths to Raising Kids

A woman’s role as a parent never fits neatly into one box. When people think about Mother’s Day, they often imagine a perfect day of gifts and smiles. In reality, many moms feel as if the holiday is a moment to judge themselves: “Did I choose the right path? Did my choices hurt my children? ” Th

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May 09 2026OPINION

Wikipedia and News: A Tale of Bias

In recent months, a whistle‑blower named Sanger has challenged the idea that Wikipedia is neutral. He says the site now favors “establishment” viewpoints and dismisses certain conservative voices by labeling them unreliable. Sanger highlighted a 2024 audit of the article on Zionism. The page was

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