Category: Community Voices

One reader: “I learned a lot from using the school libraries. It helped me be a better artist. I still love going to the library at 64 years of age. I’m still learning.”

While a $40 million yacht purchased by Steward Health Care CEO Dr. Ralph de la Torre catches attention because his hospitals were having equipment repossessed for failure to pay bills, it is only a symptom of a deeper problem.

Readers weigh in on the divisive subject, both praising the story (“some of the best journalism I’ve read in this region in years”) and criticizing it (“Media hit piece”).

“It’s crucial to remember that history is not merely a collection of facts; it’s the living, breathing story of a nation, and in our case, the vibrant history of Black Americans in New Bedford.” — The New Bedford Human Rights Commission

Your failure is not a sign of weakness, lack of self-discipline, or willpower. The truth is, cosmically and scientifically speaking, you never really had a chance.

“The commuter rail will attract people from outside the region. … They’ll be more likely to afford New Bedford’s luxury rentals, which will look like bargains compared to prevailing rents close to Boston.” — former city planner Richard Walega

“We’ve traded space for people to live and work for places to store cars. Huge chunks of our neighborhoods are now covered by parking lots, and our streets are lined with taxpayer subsidized car storage.” — Miles Grant, Fairhaven resident

Citing so-called “research,” often provided by fossil fuel-funded think tanks, opponents of offshore wind up and down the East Coast are pushing the false narrative that the industry is killing endangered whales.

“As the season of gratitude approaches, I am reminded of my family’s experience and the power of community. I am forever grateful for the generosity and support of family, friends, neighbors, businesses, and nonprofit organizations that helped us through a traumatic time.” — SouthCoast Community Foundation CEO Dr. Melanie Edwards-Tavares