Johanna Lydon Massachusetts is facing a severe housing crisis. According to Zillow Rentals, the average rent in Massachusetts in May 2025 is $3,100, which is an astounding 68% higher than the national average. This is a stark difference from the median gross rent reported by the U.S. Census Bureau from 2019 to 2023, which was $1,687. In addition, 35.8% of households in … [Read more...] about Lydon: Massachusetts housing crisis threatens residents’ public health
Opinion
LTTE: Concerns regarding mental health stigma and discrimination in local government
To the editor: I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the lack of understanding and discriminatory practices I have encountered within Peabody's local government concerning mental health and the rights of individuals with psychiatric service dogs. Recently, I attempted to license my psychiatric service dog with the City Clerk's office in Peabody. I was informed … [Read more...] about LTTE: Concerns regarding mental health stigma and discrimination in local government
Shribman: Lost in the circus acts, Putin’s declaration chills
Nearly lost in the week’s news — the nomination of an iconoclast to run the nation’s health agency who is at odds with the nation’s health experts, and an account of the former congressman chosen to be the chief law enforcement officer who, according to witnesses, had sex with a 17-year old near a pool — was a small item that has the potential of triggering a nuclear war. Amid … [Read more...] about Shribman: Lost in the circus acts, Putin’s declaration chills
Higgins: Automation could be a problem in retail theft
Sean Higgins Headed into the holiday season, the retail industry is wrangling with a surge in shoplifting and possible solutions to prevent theft. The upsurge may be an inadvertent consequence of another trend: automation. With stores now having fewer people minding them, thieves have felt emboldened. Trade groups are pushing for new federal legislation to help fix the … [Read more...] about Higgins: Automation could be a problem in retail theft
Shirbman: What’s to come for Trump 2.0
The ballots are counted (and in some few places, recounted). The blame is being distributed (but only in one of the two parties). The lawn signs have been struck (but some are being kept as collectibles, reminders of dreams redeemed or dismantled). Yet several mysteries remain, and a passel of new ones has emerged. It is, at times like this, the mysteries that matter as much … [Read more...] about Shirbman: What’s to come for Trump 2.0