I am writing in support of Governor Patrick’s proposed $1 cigarette tax increase, a proposal that also includes closing the loophole on other tobacco products. These tobacco products are aggressively marketed towards young people by packaging, price, and availability. The Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids estimates that a $1.00 increase to the tobacco tax would [...]

A flag flies at half mast outside of the Buddy Coholan Adult Day Health Center on Washington Street, which is around the corner from the Medford family home of Krystle Campbell, a 29-year-old woman who was tragically killed at the Boston Marathon. – Allison Goldsberry Since 1988, Medford native Dave McGillivray, a lifelong runner, has [...]

Massachusetts has reached a fork in the road. One path leads to an even better education system, a reliable public transit system, well maintained roads and bridges, and a revived economy. The other path leads to further cuts for vital services, decrepit roads and bridges, increased fares on public transportation, and long waiting lists for [...]

To The Editor: The condition of the Mystic River has been subject to much press attention lately. While it is wonderful to see increased interest in water quality, we would like to clarify that the water quality in the Mystic is fairly similar to that of the Charles River. The Wastewater Advisory Committee, a citizen’s [...]

Investing in Transportation is Investing in Our Future – Senator Patricia Jehlen and Kristina Egan Transportation is key to Massachusetts’ economic future – but it is currently at risk. Updating our roadways ensures safety and saves millions of dollars in taxpayer dollars in the long run. One example is the historic “Fast 14” project, which [...]

- Allison Goldsberry It is fitting that during Lent, a time of reflection leading up to the holiest day of the year for Catholics and Christians, the Catholic Church faces the task of selecting a new Pope. Much has already been published in the media, and more will continue to come out as people speculate [...]

As a Cancer Survivor and U.S. Marine, I Once Looked Up to Him – Jay Platt What is a hero? Webster’s dictionary defines a hero as someone who’s admired for his achievements and noble qualities, and one who shows great courage. Fortunately, today we have many examples of real heroes. Look no further than the [...]

- Ron Giovino There seems to be never a dull moment in our fair City of Medford. Just as the year was about to close, word is released of a new potential black eye for Medford, in the form of trouble in youth sports. In case you haven’t heard, click here to read how District [...]

- Marie Wetmore It’s New Year’s. You make a resolution and tell yourself that this year you will finally succeed. You’ll lose weight. You’ll spend more time with your family. You’ll start saying no. Whatever your resolution is, this is your opportunity to do something differently. Rather than announcing yet another resolution that loses steam [...]

And Why it’s Important – Marie Wetmore Amidst the holiday shopping, hosting family events, and trying to keep up with end-of-the-year work expectations, you might be familiar with this real world grinch: holiday stress. According to a study by Greenberg research, 38 percent of Americans experience increased stress during the holidays. Although anyone can feel [...]