By Bob Katzen
Secretary of State Bill Galvin’s office announced that sponsors of seven ballot questions have met the signature and all other requirements to take the next step to get on the 2018 ballot. These proposals now go to the Legislature and, if not approved by May 2, 2018, proponents must gather another 10,792 signatures by July 4, 2018, in order for the question to appear on the November 2018 ballot.
The seven questions include:
By Bob Katzen
The House Ways and Means Committee has recommended passage of a bill that would require two copies of a highly-reflective decal or other symbol to be clearly visible to law enforcement officers on the window of any vehicle being operated by a driver with a learner’s permit or a junior operator’s license. The size, fee and other details would be determined by the Registry of Motor Vehicles. A violation of the requirement would result in a fine up to $50.
By Bob Katzen
State Treasurer Deb Goldberg’s Alcohol Task Force that she formed in February issued its report with 37 recommendations, including raising the excise tax on beer, wine and liquor; increasing the fines for violations of laws relating to alcohol; spending an additional $3.1 million per year for hiring 30 new investigators and 15 staff members for the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission (ABCC); and making some operational changes to the ABCC.
Continue reading RAISE ALCOHOL TAXES AND FINES DISCUSSED ON BEACON HILL
By Bob Katzen
The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Charlie Baker legislation waiving, for two years, a law that requires businesses and groups to have a 35 percent participation rate in order to qualify for group auto and home insurance discount rates. Continue reading AUTO AND HOME INSURANCE DISCOUNTS BILL (H 4081) APPROVED
By Bob Katzen
THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll calls in the House and Senate last week.
This week, Beacon Hill Roll Call reports on how often local representatives voted with their party leadership.
The votes of the 2017 membership of 34 Republicans were compared with those of GOP House Minority Leader Bradley Jones (R-North Reading). The votes of the 2017 membership of 125 Democrats were compared to House Speaker Robert DeLeo (D-Winthrop). Beacon Hill Roll Call uses 289 votes from the 2017 House session as the basis for this report. This includes all roll calls that were not quorum calls or votes on local issues. Continue reading Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 42 – Report No. 52 December 25-29, 2017
The City of Somerville is looking for Somerville teens to pair with residents in need of shoveling assistance during upcoming snow storms. Additionally, Somerville senior citizens and residents with disabilities may contact us to be added to the list. Continue reading City Pairs Youth with Seniors, Persons with Disabilities for Assistance with Snow Shoveling Sign up now for winter 2017-18
The WSNS Winter Concert will be held on Friday, January 12th from 8:45 am – 10:45 am. We sincerely hope you can be there to enjoy this student learning showcase!
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SUNDAY, December 31, the 365th day of 2017 with 00 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:13 and sunset is @ 4:2. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1687 – The first Huguenots set sail from France for the Cape of Good Hope, where they would later create the South African wine industry with the vines they took with them on the voyage. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
Due to current weather forecasts for extreme cold on Monday, January 1, 2018, the City of Somerville has POSTPONED the annual Flag Raising event at Prospect Hill. A future date is to be determined, and will be announced next week.
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SATURDAY, December 30, the 364th day of 2017 with 01 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:13 and sunset is @ 4:19. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1460 – At the Battle of Wakefield, in England’s Wars of the Roses, the Duke of York was defeated and killed by the Lancastrians. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
Couldn’t make the December 5th ArtFarm meeting? Check out the video so you can hear updates about the project and commitment from Mayor Curtatone to the future of ArtFarm!
Click on link below to see video
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KrGFKpbuXr3vqKqH9djVWMF3zcYkJjmV/view
Thanks @Shuji Sato for filming!!
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, December 29, the 363rd day of 2017 with 02 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:13 and sunset is @ 4:18. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1170 – St. Thomas à Becket, the 40th archbishop of Canterbury, was murdered in his own cathedral by four knights acting on Henry II’s orders. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
The forecast into the next week includes temperatures well below freezing. Given the expected extreme cold, we ask residents to review these extreme cold safety tips and check on neighbors or family members who may need assistance preparing for the cold.
On December 20, 2017, I, Officer Bork, was patrolling area East 1 for the Somerville Police Department. At approximately 03:45, I was conducting a directed patrol in the area of the Capuano School. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Richard BARBOSA (Firearm Carry, Poss Large Capacity Firearm; Clinton, Southboro, & Cambridge Warrants)
On December 21, 2017, I , Officer Joseph Moreira, was in full uniform assigned to marked cruiser East 1. At 10:06 A.M., I was dispatched to 779 McGrath HWY for a report of a shoplifter. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Quentrie FAMILIA (Larceny Over, Resisting, False Name/ Brookline Warrant)
The following is a summary of the details related to this incident.
On Sunday, December 24, 2017, I, Officer David Ruf, was in full-uniform and assigned to marked cruiser East-1, for the Somerville Police Department. At approximately 1:32 P.M., Officer McCarey and Officer Costa (East-4) were dispatched to 1XX Broadway for a dispute between an MBTA bus driver and a passenger.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Peter PIANTDOSI (Disorderly, Resisting)
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Join the SCOA’s email group – The email group is for Somerville Council on Aging Seniors and / or Caregivers who are interested in the latest information on resources, events, programming, etc…in and around the Somerville area. Continue reading Somerville Council on Aging Weekly Updates & Information
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone, the Health and Human Services Department and the Somerville Public Schools announce the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration event, entitled, “Growing Our Community,” to be held on Monday, Jan. 15, in observance of national Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Continue reading Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebrations in Somerville Planned for Jan. 15
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, December 27, the 361st day of 2017 with 04 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:12 and sunset is @ 4:17. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1703 – The Methuen Treaty was signed between Portugal and England, giving preference to the import of Portuguese wines into England. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
By Bob Katzen
Bill(H 137) Approved on June 21, 2017 – Restricts telemarketing companies doing business in the state by allowing businesses to sign up for a “do not call” list and fining companies up to $5,000 if they call a business on the list. Current law only allows individual consumers to sign up for the list.
Continue reading ALLOW BUSINESSES TO OPT INTO “DO NOT CALL” LIST
By Bob Katzen
Bill (H 3660) was approved on June 7, 2017 – Prohibits drivers from using a hand-held cell phone or other device to make a call, use the device’s camera or access social media. The measure allows drivers to use only a hands-free phone. Continue reading BAN CELL PHONES UNLESS HANDS-FREE
Somerville Municipal Federal Credit Union
Turn your favorite photos into “Somerville News Weekly Magic Moments!”
Sent in by our readers!
Continue reading Somerville News Weekly Magic Moments Series
Many Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday greetings go out to Brian Richardson, Ricky Salvia, Victor Ng, Bridget Capobianco-Rios, Jack Crowley, Nancy Noble-Barletta, Jay Masci, Thomas Ross, Jim McNally and Terri Latta
Sent in by our readers!
Continue reading The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week
Donation earned through City’s Solarize Somerville initiative for exceeding home solar installation goal
SOMERVILLE – Local non-profit CASPAR, Inc. (Cambridge and Somerville Program for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Rehabilitation) will soon expand its tremendously positive impact on the community. Continue reading Somerville Non-profit CASPAR, Inc. Chosen to Receive 5kW Solar Array Donation from City’s install partner SolarFlair
CAMBRIDGE, MA- On Sunday, January 14th, FMC Ice Sports will be hosting a special Decade Public Skate event at Simoni Ice Rink in Cambridge, MA. Come to the rink in your grooviest outfit and celebrate our favorite decades for a chance to win prizes and giveaways. The time for the themed skate is listed below:
SUNDAY, January 14th – 1:00PM – 2:50PM
Continue reading SIMONI ICE RINK PRESENTS A DECADE PUBLIC SKATE EVENT
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SUNDAY, December 24, the 358th day of 2017 with 07 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:11 and sunset is @ 4:15. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1814 – The War of 1812 between the U.S. and Britain was ended with the signing of the Treaty of Ghent in Belgium. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
By William Tauro
Meet this week’s “Special Person of the Week:Alderman-At-Large Jack Connolly
Alderman-At-Large Jack Connolly, an elected Alderman for all these past years (1984-2005; 2007-2017) here in the Ville!
Pier Gustafson, a calligrapher, illustrator and graphic designer, was part of the first wave of artists to move into Brickbottom Studios in 1986. Gustafson is The Somerville Arts Council’s Artist of the Month, and you can read more about his work and experience as a local artist at somervilleartscouncil.org.
The City’s economic development team is looking for your feedback. If you have a few minutes, there are two things you can do: Continue reading Help Somerville Plan for Economic Development
If you’re leaving your car behind to travel for the holidays (or anytime this winter), make sure you have a plan for snow emergencies. New England weather can be famously fickle and a sunny forecast can quickly change to snow. A few things to keep in mind:
Continue reading Don’t Forget to Include Parking in your Holiday Plans
Mayor Joseph Curtatone, the Board of Aldermen, and the School Committee invite you to the 2018 Inaugural Ceremony, where the City’s elected officials will be sworn into office.
Join us on New Year’s Day for the 242nd raising of the Grand Union Flag on Prospect Hill — a fun family event that brings to life Somerville’s central role in the Revolutionary War.
By Bob Katzen
THE HOUSE AND SENATE: The Republicans in the Senate gained a seat when newly-elected GOP Sen. Dean Tran (R-Leominster) was sworn in last week. The Democrats now have a 33-7 edge. The Republicans’ control of seven seats is the highest in 18 years. Tran won the seat that opened up when former Democratic Sen. Jennifer Flanagan resigned to take a position on the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission.
Continue reading Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 42 -Report No. 51 December 18-22, 2017 .
Higher linkage fees will generate more $$ for affordable housing & job training
In this issue:
• Board of Aldermen votes unanimously for higher linkage fees for affordable housing and job training
• Board of Aldermen approves a District Improvement Financing (DIF) program for Union Square infrastructure and $63 million for sewer and streetscape work on Somerville Ave. Continue reading An Update From Mark Niedergang Ward 5 Alderman: Linkage $$ for housing & jobs, $100M federal $$ for GLX, Union Square development, Cedar St roadway work
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SATURDAY, December 23, the 357th day of 2017 with 08 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:11 and sunset is @ 4:14. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1783 – George Washington returned home to Mount Vernon, after the disbanding of his army following the Revolutionary War. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
By Martin Polignone
This past Wednesday night, the Somerville Holiday Inn was full of Christmas cheer with the elderly residents of Cobble Hill Apartments.
Continue reading Somerville Cobble Hill Elders Sing & Dance The Night Away at Annual Christmas Party
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, December 22, the 356th day of 2017 with 09 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:10 and sunset is @ 4:14. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1715 – James Stuart, the “Old Pretender”, landed at Petershead after his exile in France. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
Our condolences go out to the Samulski and Scapicchio families for the passing of Carol A. (Samulski) Scapicchio.
Carol was a wonderful person and she will be sadly missed here in Somerville.
Continue reading Somerville Remembering Carol A. (Samulski) Scapicchio
Somerville, MA December 20, 2017 – For more than twenty years, Middlesex Federal has collected toys for the Toys for Tots program. Middlesex Federal again pledged to match toy donations made at all three of its locations.
By William Tauro
Another new adventure in the city of Somerville, CT2 Bus/Bus Prioritization Lanes
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, December 20, the 354th day of 2017 with 11 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:09 and sunset is @ 4:13. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1606 – The “Susan Constant,” “Godspeed” and “Discovery” set sail from London. Their landing at Jamestown, VA, was the start of the first permanent English settlement in America. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, December 19, the 353rd day of 2017 with 12 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:09 and sunset is @ 4:12. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1154 – Henry II became King of England. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
By Martin Polignone
An eighteen wheel truck collided with a street light pole on Somerville Avenue early this morning, knocking over the live pole.
Continue reading Early Tuesday AM Tractor Trailer Accident on Somerville Ave
Merry Christmas! Click on link below to read:December 19th, 2017 The Somerville News Weekly Print Edition OnlineDecember 19th, 2017 The Somerville News Weekly Print Edition Online
Alderman-At-Large Dennis Sullivan and his lovely wife Melissa Hurley, one of the nicest couples that you can ever meet here in the Ville!
Continue reading SPECIAL PERSONS OF THE WEEK ALDERMAN-AT-LARGE DENNIS SULLIVAN AND MELISSA HURLEY
Local Somerville culinary talents showcased their talents at Middlesex Federal’s Business Customer Appreciation Night held last week. Jeff Stuart, Culinary and Pastry Instructor, Somerville High School worked with his students to create a custom ice sculpture.
Citizens and Friends of Somerville,
Thank you very much for your willingness to send me to City Hall as an elected Alderman for all these past years (1984-2005; 2007-2017).
Continue reading A Message from Somerville Alderman-at-Large Jack Connolly
Turn your favorite photos into “Somerville News Weekly Magic Moments!”
Continue reading Somerville News Weekly Magic Moments Series
By Mark Niedergang
This past Thursday night, a couple of City Boards took steps forward in the redevelopment of the seven “D blocs” in the heart of Union Square.
The Board of Aldermen approved bonding for $63 million for sewer and streetscape improvements on Somerville Ave and two bonds for $3.6 million to pay for design of two other major sewer projects.
Many Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday greetings go out to John Hickey, Stacy Finos Fialho, Bruna Araujo M, Leo R Bracken, Kim Brown, Jennie D’Alelio, Joe Nardella, Lea Bowler Hardy, Mary Agritha, Michael McWilliams, William LaCourse, Terri Martin, Mariluce Alves Braga, Christina Perrotti, Jim Henry and Joshua Furtado!
Sent in by our readers!
Continue reading The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week
By Bob Katzen
Acting Senate President Harriette Chandler (D-Worcester) has canceled the annual holiday party for senators and their staffs. Chandler’s office told Beacon Hill Roll Call, “There will be no Senate holiday party this year. After speaking with her leadership team, the Acting Senate president made the determination that a holiday party would not be appropriate.”
By Bob Katzen
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) has extended the length of time a driver’s photo is valid on his or her license from nine years to 14 years. Bay State driver’s licenses are valid for five years. Continue reading THE REGISTRY MAKES DRIVER’S LICENSE RENEWAL EASIER
By Bob Katzen
THE HOUSE AND SENATE. There were no roll call votes in the House or Senate last week. This week, Beacon Hill Roll Call reports local representatives’ roll call attendance records for the 2017 session through December 15.
Continue reading Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 42 – Report No. 50 December 11-15, 2017
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Join the SCOA’s email group – The email group is for Somerville Council on Aging Seniors and / or Caregivers who are interested in the latest information on resources, events, programming, etc…in and around the Somerville area. Continue reading Somerville Council on Aging Weekly Updates & Information
On Saturday, December 16, 2017, I, Officer Paul Beckford, was on duty for the Somerville Police (E3). At approximately 3:34 AM, Officer Jose Ramirez (E2), and I were dispatched to 50 Tufts St. for a check condition of a motor vehicle parked in the middle of the road. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Paul DENIS (OUI Liquor)
The following is a brief summary pertaining to Incident #17075367:
On Thursday, December, 14, 2017, I was working in the Somerville Police Drug Unit as Delta-18. At approximately 4:45 P.M., I was running routine surveillance around the Edward Leathers Park along with Detectives Costa, Legros, Goncalves, McNally, and Sgt. Detective Capasso. My attention was drawn to a gray Nissan Sentra parked illegally directly next to the park. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Felipe LEAO (Distribute Class D)
On Tuesday December 12, 2017, I, Officer Marra, was in full-uniform and assigned to marked cruiser 782, patrolling area E2, for the Somerville Police Department. At approximately 2005 hours, I assisted Unit East-3, Officer Sousa, who had put out a BOLO for a vehicle. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Linda CARDALINO (OUI Liquor)
On Monday, December 11th, 2017, I, Officer Kim, was working uniformed patrol in marked police cruiser 787. At approximately 11:30 am, I was dispatched to Stop and Shop, located at 105 Alewife Brook Parkway, for a report of two customers fighting inside the store. Unit West 6: Officer Difava was dispatched as back up and Unit West 5: Officer Gee also responded to assist.
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS MONDAY, December 18, the 352nd day of 2017 with 13 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:08 and sunset is @ 4:12. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. Theevening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus. The New Moon is exact @ 1:32 AM EST
ON THIS DAY IN: 1787 – New Jersey became the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
Photos by Rosalee Zammuto
By William Tauro
The race started this past Sunday morning in Davis Square at 11am. The 5K run/walk winded through streets & squares of Somerville, ending back in Davis Square.
The run was followed by a post-race party in 18 local bars, sponsored by Harpoon Brewery.
By William Tauro
This past Saturday morning, a political breakfast sponsored by Somerville’s “Our Revolution” was held at the Mount Vernon Restaurant for local Somerville union members.
Continue reading Somerville’s Our Revolution Sponsors Breakfast With Local Union Members
Dear Billy T and Somerville News Weekly Speakup Line,
Our local as well as municipal employers her in this very city should hold sexual harassers accountable!
Could you please do an investigative series on sexual harassment stories from victims working for the city? You should!
Maybe this letter to the editor will encourage other victims in Somerville to break their silence and “Speakup!”
Continue reading Letter to the Editor: Sexual Harassment Speak-up Busters of Somerville
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SUNDAY, December 17, the 351st day of 2017 with 14 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:08 and sunset is @ 4:12. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1777 – France recognized American independence.
1791 – A traffic regulation in New York City established the first street to go “One Way.” Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
By Martin Polignone
This past week, the Bunker Hill Holiday Inn treated their elderly neighbors at the Cobble Hill Apartments to a breakfast with Santa complete with Christmas music and gifts. Continue reading Cobble Hill Elders Enjoy Breakfast With Santa At Somerville Holiday Inn
Photos by Darlene Darrell English
Continue reading Somerville Public School All-City Middle School Winter Concert on December 14th
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SATURDAY, December 16, the 350th day of 2017 with 15 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:07 and sunset is @ 4:11. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1653 – Oliver Cromwell became lord protector of England, Scotland and Ireland. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
By William Tauro
Our condolences go out to the McMahon family for the passing of James McMahon.
16 Bow Street Somerville
Photo: SMEA President Ed Halloran and Vice President Jimmy Roderick
Photo by Frankie Saint
By William Tauro
Hundreds of toys were collected and donated the Toys for Local Children (TLC) from members of the Somerville Municipal Employees Association.
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, December 15, the 349th day of 2017 with 16 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:06 and sunset is @ 4:11. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1654 – A meteorological office established in Tuscany began recording daily temperature readings. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
PINO, Arthur J., Sr. – 81, Retired Officer, Somerville Police Dept., Of Somerville, December 8, 2017 surrounded by his loving family.
Continue reading Somerville Remembering Former Somerville Police Chief Arthur Pino
By William Tauro
Somerville-This past Thursday afternoon Somerville Kiwanis Club President Paul Upton and Kiwanis Club members, joined by the Somerville Lions Club President Billy Tauro with Lions Club members and the Somerville Rotary Club President Ann Kirby with her club’s members held their Annual Holiday Tri-Meeting Toys for Tots Luncheon.
Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Host Annual 2017 Holiday Tri-Meeting Toys for Tots Luncheon
Investigators Urge Anyone with Information to Come Forward
SOMERVILLE – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Somerville Chief of Police David Fallon have announced that Joshua Bohrer, 37, of Somerville, was indicted yesterday by a Middlesex Superior Court Grand Jury on two counts of rape in connection with alleged sexual assaults of two female customers of his massage business, Karma Body Work, in Somerville. Continue reading Somerville Masseuse Indicted in Connection with Four Alleged Sexual Assaults
LEXINGTON – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan hosted more than 450 students from 30 middle and high schools across Middlesex County at this year’s Empowering Girls 2017 Conference: Women with Vision held at the Cary Memorial Building in Lexington. This year’s theme focused on leadership, self-discovery and goal-setting in the face of obstacles.
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, December 13, the 347th day of 2017 with 18 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:04 and sunset is @ 4:11. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1577 – Five ships under the command of Sir Francis Drake left Plymouth, England, to embark on Drake’s circumnavigation of the globe. The journey took almost three years. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
SOMERVILLE- The Kiwanis Club of Somerville held it’s 18th annual Christmas Party for Early Head Start children on Monday evening at the Somerville Holiday Inn.
Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Head Start Christmas Party a Huge Success
Tuesday, December 12, 2017
Somerville, MA – Community members in Union Square held elections during the first week of December for the leadership of a grassroots neighborhood council that will represent the community in negotiations with developers.
Continue reading Union Square community elects representatives for Neighborhood Council
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, December 12, the 346th day of 2017 with 19 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:04 and sunset is @ 4:10. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1787 – Pennsylvania became the second state to ratify the U.S. Constitution. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
Click on link below to read December 12th, 2017 The Somerville News Weekly Print Edition OnlineDecember 12th, 2017 The Somerville News Weekly Print Edition Online
Accounting-Paula A. Vancini,CMA Vancini Accounting & Tax
Advertising-Somerville News Weekly
Apartments-Patricia Ng Century 21 Commonwealth
Architects-Davis Square Architects
Assisted Living-Somerville VNA
Attorneys-Mike Dwyer
Auto Repair Shops-GE Auto Repair 629 Som Ave
Continue reading THE SOMERVILLE NEWS WEEKLY 2017 “BEST OF THE BEST OF SOMERVILLE” AWARD WINNERS
By William Tauro
Meet this week’s “Special Person of the Week:Paula Vancini
Paula is the founder of Vancini Accounting a local boutique practice specializing in small and emerging firms, as well as individuals.
Continue reading The Somerville News Weekly Special Person of the Week:Paula Vancini
Hundreds of residents, friends and neighbors joined Mayor Curtatone and City staff for Somerville’s annual holiday celebrations that kicked off this past Thursday evening with the Christmas Tree Lighting and a visit from Santa Claus on the City Hall Concourse.
Continue reading 2017 Somerville Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
BOSTON, MA — State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump released the following statement on the letter released today by Governor Baker in response to her audit of the Department of Children and Families:
Continue reading Statement from Auditor Bump on Letter from Governor Baker
I am sorry to pass along the bad news that once again, for the 3rd year in a row, this project has been put off until next year.
This month marks the beginning of the annual holiday gift buying season. Each year, more and more shoppers are using online or catalog services to order gifts to be delivered to their homes. Unfortunately, this is also the season when the theft of delivered packages increases across the nation and Somerville is no exception.
Thank you to our Somerville Police Chief for taking these incredible pictures on his trip to Israel. Chief David Fallon joins other top local, state and federal law enforcement officials to learn about counter-terrorism at the Counter-Terrorism Seminar.
Continue reading Somerville Police Chief Travels To Israel For Counter-Terrorism Seminar
Turn your favorite photos into “Somerville News Weekly Magic Moments!”
Sent in by our readers!
Continue reading Somerville News Weekly Magic Moments Series
Many Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday greetings go out to Eva Montibello, Neil W. McCabe, Patricia J Gately, Irene Bremis, Joseph Serpa, Debbie Mahoney, Carol Siciliano Bailey, Kathy Barrett- Pitcher, Joseph Nargi, Cheryl Callahan, Joe Pereira, Brooke Scannell, Claudette Moussa, Ray Hegarty, Debbie Rushing, Maria Curtatone, Mary Byrne Snow, and Happy 8th Birthday to our good friend Jake and Happy 8th Birthday to our good friend Cash!
Sent in by our readers!
Continue reading The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week
By Bob Katzen
This bill creates a citizens’ commission to consider and recommend potential amendments to the U.S. Constitution to establish that corporations do not have the same constitutional rights as human beings and that corporations’ campaign contributions and expenditures may be regulated. Sponsors say they delivered more than 85,000 signatures.
Continue reading MASSACHUSETTS LAW MAKERS EXPLORE CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS BILL
By Bob Katzen
This bill limits how many patients can be assigned to each registered nurse in Massachusetts hospitals and certain other healthcare facilities. The maximum number of patients per registered nurse would vary by type of unit and level of care. Sponsors say they dropped off more than 100,000 signatures.
Continue reading LIMIT THE NUMBER OF PATIENTS PER NURSE TALKS ON BEACON Hill
By Bob Katzen
This measure reduces the state’s sale tax from 6.25 percent to 5 percent and at the same time establishes an annual two-day permanent sales tax holiday in August that allows consumers to buy most products that cost under $2,500 without paying the state.
Continue reading REDUCE SALES TAX TO 5 PERCENT AND ESTABLISH SALES TAX HOLIDAY
By Bob Katzen
“I believe taking a leave of absence from the Senate Presidency during the investigation is in the best interest of the Senate,” said Sen. Stan Rosenberg (D-Amherst). “I want to ensure that the investigation is fully independent and credible, and that anyone who wishes to come forward will feel confident that there will be no retaliation.”
Continue reading SEN. STAN ROSENBERG RESIGNS FROM SENATE PRESIDENCY
By Bob Katzen
THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local senator’s votes on three roll calls from the week of December 4-8. There were no roll calls in the House last week.
Continue reading Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 42 – Report No. 49 December 4-8, 2017
ONGOING PROGRAMS
Join the SCOA’s email group – The email group is for Somerville Council on Aging Seniors and / or Caregivers who are interested in the latest information on resources, events, programming, etc…in and around the Somerville area. Use the link https://groups.google.com/group/somerville-council-on-aging – If you have any questions or need help joining please contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email dhiggins@somervillema.gov
Continue reading Somerville Council on Aging Weekly Updates & Information
President William A. White, Jr., has called for TWO Special Meetings of the Board of Aldermen:
The first Special Meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 12, 2017 at 7:00 PM, in the Aldermanic Chambers, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 93 Highland Avenue, for the purpose of considering four zoning ordinance proposals for affordable housing linkage fees and/or jobs creation and retention linkage fees (#204399, #204400, #204524, and #204525).
Join Mayor Curtatone and City staff for Somerville’s annual ceremonial lighting of a Menorah on the City Hall Concourse on December 19 at 5:30 p.m., with Rabbi Eliana from Temple B’nai Brith. All members of the community are invited to join Mayor Curtatone and City staff for a brief ceremony and photo on the City Hall Concourse. Continue reading Somerville Menorah Lighting Ceremony on City Hall Concourse December 19
I was on duty in full police uniform and assigned to a marked cruiser. Right after I cleared from an assistance call on Powderhouse Blvd, I proceeded couple blocks away on North Street to assist my colleagues on a motor vehicle stop. North Street is a public way in the City of Somerville MA. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Julio ROLON-LOPEZ (Unlicensed Op MV, Use MV w/o Authority)
On December 05, 2017, at approximately 15:40 hours, I, Officer Joseph Rivera, while in full uniform and working as East 4, was dispatched to the intersection of Memorial Road and Temple Street, both public ways within the City of Somerville, for a report of a motor vehicle accident.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Pentagrammaton ANTOINE (Medford Warrant)
On Tuesday, December 5, 2017 I, Officer Justin Buswell, worked my assigned 8am-4pm shift in marked Somerville Police Cruiser East-1 and in full uniform. The following report is a summary of the events that I witnessed as they pertain to Incident# 17073532:
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Darryll LYDON (Larceny Over & SPD Warrant)
On December 4, 2017 at approx. 8:15 pm I was assigned to Somerville CID Unit as Delta 7. While exiting the police station I encountered a male, identified at booking as Kevin Banos, standing at the front entrance of the building. As I exited I asked Mr. Banos if there was anything I could help him with. Mr. Banos replied with a slew of vulgarities of why he hates cops and continued with telling me that he knew who I was and that he will see me again on the street.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Kevin BANOS (Disorderly, Resisting)
On Monday, December 4, 2017, I, Officer Pavao, was assigned to marked unit East 2. At approximately 2:57pm, while stopped at a red light on Highland Ave (Public way in the City of Somerville) and observed a dark colored sedan go through the red light and turn left onto Walnut Street. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Kevin BANOS (Op MV w/License Susp)
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS MONDAY, December 11, the 345th day of 2017 with 20 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:03 and sunset is @ 4:10. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1282 – Llywelyn (Llewelyn ap Gruffydd) was killed in Cilmeri, central Wales. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SATURDAY, December 09, the 343rd day of 2017 with 22 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:01 and sunset is @ 4:10. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1625 – The Treaty of the Hague was signed by England and the Netherlands. The agreement was to subsidize Christian IV of Denmark in his campaign in Germany. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
By William Tauro
The snow began to fall this past Saturday afternoon and as the sun went down the roads began to freeze.
Continue reading Saturday Night Traveling In Somerville During Snowstorm
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, December 08, the 342nd day of 2017 with 23 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 7:00 and sunset is @ 4:10. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1765 – Eli Whitney was born in Westboro, MA. Whitney invented the cotton gin and developed the concept of mass-production of interchangeable parts. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
Mayor’s cousin also faces counterfeiting charges
SOMERVILLE, Mass. —
A former Somerville Police detective who’s accused of passing counterfeit money has been approved for a disability pension.
http://www.wcvb.com/article/pension-windfall-for-former-somerville-officer/14382965
Somerville Community Invited to Donate Goods for Troop Care Packages
For 11 Years Fisher College has adopted a service member overseas and in their honor, the Fisher community has come together to assemble care packages to send to our troops overseas. This year, the Somerville Office of Veterans’ Services joins the Fisher College Student Veterans’ Organization to collect items to send to our troops.
If your a firefighter, police officer or city employee that has been extorted by an elected official or a city department head to pay an illegal entrance fee to get a job on the Fire or police department or a position with the city please give us a call.
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS THURSDAY, December 07, the 341st day of 2017 with 24 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:59 and sunset is @ 4:10. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1431 – In Paris, Henry VI of England was crowned King of France. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
November 7, 1973 – December 5, 2017
Our condolences go out to the Moreno and Bonilla families on the recent passing of Daysi I. Moreno. Daysi was a very nice person with many friends who will sadly miss her here in Somerville.
City now one of two communities in Massachusetts to earn the Gold Level award
Designation is the result of a surge in construction and utilization of bicycle infrastructure, expansion of the Neighborways Program, and more efforts
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, December 06, the 340th day of 2017 with 25 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:58 and sunset is @ 4:10. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1774 – Austria became the first nation to introduce a state education system. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
New partnership will focus on regional goals to create a regional housing strategy for Greater Boston’s growing population
SOMERVILLE – Tuesday, December 5, 2017 – Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone, Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh, and representatives of the 14 cities and towns of the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition of Greater Boston today announced the creation of a new regional housing partnership. Continue reading MAYOR CURTATONE, MAYOR WALSH, AND METRO MAYORS COALITION ANNOUNCE REGIONAL HOUSING PARTNERSHIP
GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, December 05, the 339th day of 2017 with 26 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:57 and sunset is @ 4:11. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Saturn & Mercury. The evening stars are Mars, Neptune, Uranus & Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1560 – Charles IX succeeded as King of France on the death of Francis II. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer
Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,
This is what they are doing tonight on Broadway. This looks so stupid, who’s idea was this?
Continue reading Letter to the Editor:Red Crosswalks In Somerville How Ridiculous?
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