GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SUNDAY, September 30, the 273rd day of 2018 with 92 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:39 and sunset is @ 6:28. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1399 – Henry Bolingbroke became the King of England as Henry IV. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SATURDAY, September 29, the 272nd day of 2018 with 93 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:37 and sunset is @ 6:30. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1789 – A regular army was established by the U.S. War Department with several hundred men.

1829 – The first public appearance by London’s re-organized police force was met with jeers from political opponents. The force became known as Scotland Yard. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, September 28, the 271st day of 2018 with 94 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:37 and sunset is @ 6:32. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1066 – England was invaded by William the Conqueror who claimed the English throne.

1542 – San Diego, CA, was discovered by Portuguese navigator Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. Continue reading

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS THURSDAY, September 27, the 270th day of 2018 with 95 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:36 and sunset is @ 6:34. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1779 – John Adams was elected to negotiate with the British over the American Revolutionary War peace terms. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

MASS AUDUBON’S ANNUAL ‘PICTURE THIS’ PHOTO CONTEST ‪ENDS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30‬


LINCOLN, MA—There’s still time to enter Mass Audubon’s annual statewide photo contest, Picture This: Your Great Outdoors, which wraps up Sunday, September 30.

Shutterbugs of all ages and abilities know that early autumn is prime time for taking memorable pictures of the Bay State’s natural beauty, as the foliage season commences with its dramatic palette of color patterns and the sun slants lower in the sky. Continue reading MASS AUDUBON’S ANNUAL ‘PICTURE THIS’ PHOTO CONTEST ‪ENDS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30‬

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, September 26, the 269th day of 2018 with 96 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:35 and sunset is @ 6:35. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1777 – Philadelphia was occupied by British troops during the American Revolutionary War. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

Somerville Public Library Announces 2018 “Somerville Reads” Book Selection

Copies of “Exit West” now available at all three library branches.

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Public Library announces its pick for the 2018 citywide “Somerville Reads” campaign. “Exit West” by Mohsin Hamid is now available at all three branches of the library, and events and book discussions are planned to begin in November. Continue reading Somerville Public Library Announces 2018 “Somerville Reads” Book Selection

SCHOOL CAFETERIA COMPOST AND EXPANDED RECYCLING PILOT PROGRAM LAUNCHING AT FOUR SOMERVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

City and Schools partner to engage students in the sustainable

disposal of lunch waste at four K-8 Schools 

 

SOMERVILLE, MA – In Somerville, City and school staff recently teamed up to launch a pilot program to overcome some cafeteria recycling challenges and also add composting to the mix. Continue reading SCHOOL CAFETERIA COMPOST AND EXPANDED RECYCLING PILOT PROGRAM LAUNCHING AT FOUR SOMERVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, September 25, the 268th day of 2018 with 97 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:34 and sunset is @ 6:37. The moon is waning. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1492 – The crew of the Pinta, one of Christopher Columbus’ ships, mistakenly thought that they had spotted land. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week

Many Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday greetings go out to Jacob Shaps, Bill and Helen Gioiosa, Casi Glejzer, George McLean, Sharon Fiorentino, Kerri and Matthew Horan, Lawrence Capriotti, Michael Winter, Peder Acres, Sandy Murphy Starfish Mattson, John Nicoll, Irene Reni Macarelli, Teresa Paribello, Jim Vargas, Christina Ferguson, Kathy Maggiacomo, Anthony Masci, Jo-Ann Crosby, Aida Maia, Michelle Petruzziello, Maria Koutsoubaris, Mark C Lavelle, Donna Baldasaro, Linda Malone, Judson Walker Greene, Pat Demaio, Gary Ward, Josephine Guarino Torra, Joey Lacey, Jean Mickiewicz Brunco, Happy 1st Birthday to Paulie and Happy Birthday to Lori Santo Santoro’s rock Jim! Continue reading The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week

New First Responder Stamp Released By USPS in Somerville

By William Tauro

This past Wednesday, Somerville Firefighters, Police and EMS First Responders from Cataldo Ambulance attended a ceremony where the United States Postal Service released its forever stamp honoring first responders at a dedication ceremony at the Union Square Post Office located on Bow Street in Somerville. Continue reading New First Responder Stamp Released By USPS in Somerville

National Law Enforcement Museum Announces First Changing Exhibit; Will Examine Law Enforcement and Community Relations

“Five Communities” exhibit highlights grassroots programs across the nation that are strengthening relationships between law enforcement and their communities

WASHINGTON—The National Law Enforcement Museum at the Motorola Solutions Foundation Building — the nation’s only museum that explores nearly every facet of American law enforcement opening to the public on October 13, 2018 — announced today the details of its first changing exhibition highlighting grassroots efforts to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. The exhibit, entitled Five Communities, will provide visitors a look at specific programs developed in Cleveland, Dallas, Chicago, Somerville, Mass. and Charleston, S.C.

Continue reading National Law Enforcement Museum Announces First Changing Exhibit; Will Examine Law Enforcement and Community Relations

Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Jacob BLUMENTHAL (Trespass, Larceny Under & Chelmsford, Revere, Quincy, Peabody Warrants)

On Friday, September 21, 2018, I was assigned to marked unit East-4 and on routine patrol. At approximately 1:11 PM, I was dispatched to Home Depot (75 Mystic Avenue) on a report of a shoplifter that was becoming aggressive with loss prevention officers. Officers Soares (E-1) and Reece (A-1) responded as backup.

Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Jacob BLUMENTHAL (Trespass, Larceny Under & Chelmsford, Revere, Quincy, Peabody Warrants)

Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Brandon TRACY (Possess A, Possess B, Shoplifting & SPD, Andover Warrants)

On September 20, 2018, at approximately 17:15 hours, I was contacted by Kmart Loss Prevention, who sent me a surveillance photo of a suspect who had concealed clothing in a camera blind spot, and fled the store. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Brandon TRACY (Possess A, Possess B, Shoplifting & SPD, Andover Warrants)

Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Ramon ORDONEZ (OUI Liquor, Negligent Op of MV, MV Op Giving False Name to Police, VCO Littering… )

On September 19, 2018, while assigned to marked unit East-4, I was travelling east on Broadway, I was behind a pickup truck bearing MA registration xxxx at a red light at Broadway and Cross Street East. At this time a large food container was expelled from the passenger’s side of the vehicle. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Ramon ORDONEZ (OUI Liquor, Negligent Op of MV, MV Op Giving False Name to Police, VCO Littering… )

Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Jordan YANDLE (Trespass) & Davonte BOWDEN (Trespass, Disorderly)

“Report entered by SPD Records Personnel based upon report by SHA (LC)”

On 9/17/18 BOWDEN was a disorderly person, in that he or she did, with purpose to cause public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, or recklessly creating a risk thereof, engage in fighting or threatening, or in violent or tumultuous

behavior, or did create a hazardous or physically offensive condition by an act that served no legitimate purpose of the

defendant, in violation of the common law.

Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Jordan YANDLE (Trespass) & Davonte BOWDEN (Trespass, Disorderly)

NATIONAL VOTER REGISTRATION DAY IS ‪TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25‬:

Here’s How to Register in Somerville

Deadline to Register to Vote in the 2018 Election is Wednesday, October 17

SOMERVILLE— National Voter Registration Day is Tuesday, September 25, and the City of Somerville—and the Somerville High School Student Council—encourage eligible residents to register so that they are able to vote in the upcoming election on November 6. Continue reading NATIONAL VOTER REGISTRATION DAY IS ‪TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25‬:

SOMERVILLE POW-MIA FLAG CEREMONY AT CITY HALL CONCOURSE

By William Tauro

This past Friday afternoon, Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone and Veterans Commissioner Bryan Bishop invited the public, emergency first responders and veterans to the raising of the POW-MIA  (Prisoner of War – Missing in Action) Flag to remember the brave soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who served as Prisoners of War or are considered Missing In Action.

Continue reading SOMERVILLE POW-MIA FLAG CEREMONY AT CITY HALL CONCOURSE

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS MONDAY, September 24, the 267th day of 2018 with 98 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:32 and sunset is @ 6:39. The Full Harvest Moon is exact @ 10:54 PM EDT. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1789 – The U.S. Congress passed the First Judiciary Act. The act provided for an Attorney General and a lower federal courts. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Sebastian LAPAGE (Possess Class E, Disorderly) & Jason FONTAINE (Disorderly)

On September 16, 2018 at about 10:20 Sunday morning, Officer Chris Collette (West 7) was driving me (Officer Mark Nevin / West 6) to where I parked my cruiser during our previous call. We were driving through Davis Square when I observed two people move into a fighting stance and facing-off with each other in the center of Statue Park. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Sebastian LAPAGE (Possess Class E, Disorderly) & Jason FONTAINE (Disorderly)

Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Christopher MACINNES (Shoplifting, Removal of Theft Detection Device) at Big KMart, TJ Maxx and Burlington Stores at Assembly Square

On September 14, 2018, at 16:00 hours, Officers Schneider, Moreira, and I were dispatched to Kmart for a report of a male who had pointed a gun at two other males. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Christopher MACINNES (Shoplifting, Removal of Theft Detection Device) at Big KMart, TJ Maxx and Burlington Stores at Assembly Square

Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Marcus SLIM (A&B PO, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly)

On Friday, September 14, 2018, while assigned to marked unit East-3, at 0121, I, Officer Catatao, was dispatched to the area of 18x Washington Street for the report of a man lying in the middle of the street. Marked units East-1 and East-4 also responded.

Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Marcus SLIM (A&B PO, Resisting Arrest, Disorderly)

Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Juan MOLINA (Shoplifting & SPD Warrant) at Saks Fifth Ave Assembly Row

On Tuesday, September 11, 2018, while on full uniform patrol in marked unit 781, I(Officer Patrick Canty) was driving through Assembly Row when I was contacted by Saks Loss Prevention Agent, XXXX. XXXX stated that a male had just stolen multiple pairs of sunglasses from Saks. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Juan MOLINA (Shoplifting & SPD Warrant) at Saks Fifth Ave Assembly Row

4th Annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival ‪Sept. 29‬

Local music, rap, dance, live art and more! 

SOMERVILLE – The 4th Annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival will take place on Saturday, September 29th (rain date Sept 30th), from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. in Union Square Plaza. This free ArtsUnion festival is presented by the City of Somerville and Somerville Arts Council in partnership with The Somerville Line, Oompa, and Pretty Poison. Continue reading 4th Annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival ‪Sept. 29‬

NEW SOMERVILLE URBAN LAB INITIATIVE ISSUES CALL TO INNOVATORS: PILOT YOUR IDEAS & PRODUCTS HERE   

City issues RFI; Calls for proposals for public and private pilots of forward-looking products and ideas 

SOMERVILLE – It can be difficult for innovators to find opportunities to test new ideas or products, and likewise, existing tools can’t always address all the challenges cities face like climate change, affordable housing, or mobility changes. So the City of Somerville is proposing to team up with innovators to their mutual benefit. Continue reading NEW SOMERVILLE URBAN LAB INITIATIVE ISSUES CALL TO INNOVATORS: PILOT YOUR IDEAS & PRODUCTS HERE   

Somerville residents three years and older eligible for vaccine; Vaccine Clinics begin in September

SOMERVILLE – The cool air is a sign that the cold and flu season is approaching, which means it’s time for the annual flu vaccine clinics offered by the City of Somerville Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Continue reading Somerville residents three years and older eligible for vaccine; Vaccine Clinics begin in September

ALLOW BUSINESSES TO OPT INTO “DO NOT CALL” LIST

By Bob Katzen

Stuck in The House Bills in Third Reading Committee since the House first gave it initial approval on June 21, 2017 is legislation that would restrict 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

INCREASE TAX BREAK FOR VETERANS ON BEACON HILL

By Bob Katzen

Stuck in The House Bills in Third Reading Committee since the House first gave it initial approval on May 10, 2017 is legislation that makes a change in the current law that allows cities and towns to establish a program permitting veterans to volunteer their services to the community in exchange for up to a $1,000 property tax reduction. The proposal raises the reduction to $1,500.

Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 43 – Report No. 38 September 17-21, 2018

By Bob Katzen

THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week.

This week, Beacon Hill Roll Call reports on the number of times each senator sided with Republican Gov. Charlie Baker on his 48 vetoes of items, mostly in the fiscal 2019 state budget, in the 2018 session.

Continue reading Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 43 – Report No. 38 September 17-21, 2018

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SATURDAY, September 22, the 265th day of 2018 with 100 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:30 and sunset is @ 6:42. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1789 – The U.S. Congress authorized the office of Postmaster General.

1792 – The French Republic was proclaimed. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, September 21, the 264th day of 2018 with 101 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:29 and sunset is @ 6:44. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1792 – The French National Convention voted to abolish the monarchy. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

Somerville Speakup Line: Regarding Closed McGrath Offramp “I More Often Bicycle to Target and Home Depot!”

Photo:The local de

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

I read with dismay the front-page story this week which claimed that

the southbound off-ramp from McGrath Highway to Somerville Ave. was

“crucial for the survival of many businesses in that area” and promoted

a conspiracy theory that this was being done intentionally to reduce

property values(?!). Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line: Regarding Closed McGrath Offramp “I More Often Bicycle to Target and Home Depot!”

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS THURSDAY, September 20, the 263rd day of 2018 with 102 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:28 and sunset is @ 6:46. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1519 – Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan left Spain to find a route to the Spice Islands of Indonesia. Magellan was killed during the trip, but one of his ships eventually made the journey. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, September 19, the 242nd day of 2018 with 103 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:27 and sunset is @ 6:48. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1356 – The Battle of Poitiers was fought between England and France. Edward “the Black Prince” captured France’s King John. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

Somerville Speakup Line:Our Youth Have Been Brainwashed by the Far Left Liberal Fascists

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

Does anyone here understand what is happening to our youth? Especially those going to college? They have been brainwashed by the far left liberal fascists who are anti-American. Do you recall the protests of Antifa?

We have a group of angry protestors in Somerville who call themselves Our Revolution- they claim to be the followers of Bernie Sanders.

Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line:Our Youth Have Been Brainwashed by the Far Left Liberal Fascists

The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week

Many Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday greetings go out to Lenny Clarke, Sophia DeMarco, Anthony Monteiro, Alec Dellanno, Ellen Sullivan, Walter Tauro, Ken Webber, Mary Jo Rossetti, Jay Blake, Cathy Derany, Steven Maguire, Mary Ellen Gil, Joseph Tsang, Chris Stockbridge, Mark Riley, Mario Sousa, Joyce Haley-Brogna, Janette Giso, Dan Hamel, Marsha Hamel McGlashing, Emma Labrecque, João L. M. Lopes, Thomas Doherty, Ellie A Stolp Manning, Robert W Hickey, Debra O’Connor, Mark Alston-Follansbee, Fanny Chan, Matthew Desmond, Michael Ray, Timothy Shwartz and Happy 98th Birthday to our good friend Mr Ferullo!

Sent in by our readers! Continue reading The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week

SUSPECT OF DEFACING GRAVES AND URINATING ON FLAGS IN SOMERVILLE ON SUICIDE WATCH AFTER CAUGHT FLEEING STATE

By William Tauro

A suspect that was allegedly accused of defacing a grave and urinating on American flags last week at a Somerville Veterans cemetery is being detained on a court ordered 14 day evaluation stay in a Rhode Island psychiatric facility after he allegedly made threats to kill himself.

Continue reading SUSPECT OF DEFACING GRAVES AND URINATING ON FLAGS IN SOMERVILLE ON SUICIDE WATCH AFTER CAUGHT FLEEING STATE

Somerville-Public Invited to Learn about Transgender Lives and Issues at “Conversations about Gender Identity” Event

Sept. 25th event hosted by City, the Somerville High GSA, SpeakOUT, and the Human Rights Commission to feature first-hand stories about transgender lives and gender identity

SOMERVILLE – At an upcoming public conversation and learning session, Somerville community members will be offered an opportunity to gain a better understanding of gender identity and transgender lives and issues. Continue reading Somerville-Public Invited to Learn about Transgender Lives and Issues at “Conversations about Gender Identity” Event

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS MONDAY, September 17, the 240th day of 2018 with 105 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:25 and sunset is @ 6:51. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1394 – In France, Charles VI published an ordinance that expelled all Jews from France. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SUNDAY, September 16, the 239th day of 2018 with 106 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:24 and sunset is @ 6:53. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1400 – Owain Glyndwr was proclaimed Prince of Wales after rebelling against English rule. He was the last Welsh-born Prince of Wales. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

New Somerville Veterans’ Memorial Parade Set for ‪Sunday, November 4, 2018‬

New Parade planned to honor our veterans following cancellation of 2018 Memorial Week Parade. Somerville’s is one of only two parades planned in the region in honor of Veterans Month in November.

SOMERVILLE –Mayor Joseph Curtatone and Director of Veterans Services Bryan Bishop announce a brand new ceremony to honor our City’s and our nation’s Veterans. Please mark your calendars for Sunday, November 4, 2018, for the rescheduled Veterans Memorial Parade. Continue reading New Somerville Veterans’ Memorial Parade Set for ‪Sunday, November 4, 2018‬

Somerville POW-MIA Flag Ceremony Scheduled for ‪September 21‬ on City Hall Concourse

 

Please join Mayor Joseph Curtatone and Veterans’ Commissioner Bryan Bishop on Friday, September 21 at noon to raise the POW-MIA  (Prisoner of War – Missing in Action) Flag and remember the brave soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen who served as Prisoners of War or are considered Missing In Action. Continue reading Somerville POW-MIA Flag Ceremony Scheduled for ‪September 21‬ on City Hall Concourse

Somerville Seeking Residents to Serve on City’s Urban Forestry Committee

The City of Somerville is currently seeking applicants for seven members of the public to re-establish the Urban Forestry Committee. The Committee’s input is intended to support and guide policies and plans currently being reviewed and advanced by the Mayor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development and the Department of Public Works. Continue reading Somerville Seeking Residents to Serve on City’s Urban Forestry Committee

Somerville-Celebrate Local Business Districts around Planned GLX Stations with Series of Events in September

Gilman Square GLX Block Party set for 9/15; “A Ball for Squares” planned in Ball Square 9/30.

With construction for the Green Line Extension Project (GLX) now underway and ramping up in the coming weeks, the City of Somerville is partnering with local business organizations to host pop-up events at locations for several of the future GLX stations. Please join us for one of the following events this month, and stay tuned for additional events as GLX construction continues. Continue reading Somerville-Celebrate Local Business Districts around Planned GLX Stations with Series of Events in September

Museum of Science Hosts Annual College Night Welcoming New and Returning Students

BOSTON-Fall in New England means cooler temperatures, apple picking, fall foliage, and the return of thousands of college students. On Friday, September 21 from 5 to 9 pm, new and returning college students are invited to celebrate the start of the school year with College Night at the Museum of Science. Continue reading Museum of Science Hosts Annual College Night Welcoming New and Returning Students

City Seeking Members for Boards and Commissions

Openings available on eight essential Boards & Commissions

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is seeking to fill vacancies on eight essential boards and commissions appointed by the Mayor and coordinated by the Mayor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development. Boards and commissions offer an opportunity for community members with a range of experience, skills, expertise, and perspectives to share their talents and insights with their community. Continue reading City Seeking Members for Boards and Commissions

Through SCAP Shoulder Tap Surveys & Compliance Checks, Somerville Youth Ask Adults to “Just Say No”

Annual programs are part of prevention and enforcement strategies in Somerville.

SOMERVILLE – Somerville Cares About Prevention (SCAP) announced today the results of the program’s annual “Shoulder Tap Surveys,” designed to discourage adults from purchasing alcohol for people under twenty-one. During the project, youth worked to measure the willingness of a complete stranger to purchase alcohol for a minor. Continue reading Through SCAP Shoulder Tap Surveys & Compliance Checks, Somerville Youth Ask Adults to “Just Say No”

Somerville:Naveo Credit Union Hosts Celebratory Member Appreciation Summer BBQ in Honor of Their 90th Anniversary

 (Somerville, MA) Naveo Credit Union continued their 90th Anniversary celebration by hosting a member appreciation summer BBQ on Saturday, September 8 from 11AM to 3PM at its Somerville branch. The event was well attended by over 150 members, neighbors, community partners, directors and employees.

Continue reading Somerville:Naveo Credit Union Hosts Celebratory Member Appreciation Summer BBQ in Honor of Their 90th Anniversary

Somerville-Middlesex Federal Donates $1,000 to RESPOND, Inc.

Somerville, MA, September 2018 – On behalf of Middlesex Federal, Peter Bazzinotti, Senior Vice President, Senior Loan Officer presents a $1,000 check to Jessica Brayden, Chief Executive Officer, RESPOND.  Middlesex Federal was awarded funds at the 2018 Atlantic Community Bankers Bank Annual Charity Golf Tournament to donate to the charity of its choice. Continue reading Somerville-Middlesex Federal Donates $1,000 to RESPOND, Inc.

Somerville SomerStreets Strike Up The Bands Sunday September 16

Event Sunday, September 16, 2018 – 2:00pm – 6:00pm

LOCATION:School St. to Lowell St.

Come sing along at “Strike up the Bands,” the September installment of the City’s SomerStreets festival, on Sunday, September 16, from 2 to 6 p.m. between School St. and Lowell St. on Highland Ave. SomerStreets is the City of Somerville’s take on the internationally renowned Open Streets concept, closing busy city streets to vehicles, and opening them up for cycling, walking, dancing, running, and other modes of activity. Continue reading Somerville SomerStreets Strike Up The Bands Sunday September 16

SENATE TO BAN HAND-HELD CELL PHONES IN CARS

By Bob Katzen

Approved by the Senate and stuck in the House Ways and Means Committee since June 30, 2017 is a measure that would prohibit drivers from using a hand-held cell phone or another device to make a call, operate the phone’s camera or access social media while driving. The measure allows drivers to use only a hands-free phone.

Continue reading SENATE TO BAN HAND-HELD CELL PHONES IN CARS

MASSACHUSETTS AUTOMATIC INCOME TAX AND LONG-TERM CAPITAL GAINS CUT LIKELY ON JANUARY 1

By Bob Katzen

Sufficient economic growth in 2018 under the terms of a 2002 law may result in a tax cut for millions of Bay State taxpayers in 2019. The cut would come from a reduction in the income tax rate and long-term capital gains tax from 5.1 percent to 5.05 percent effective January 1, 2019.

Continue reading MASSACHUSETTS AUTOMATIC INCOME TAX AND LONG-TERM CAPITAL GAINS CUT LIKELY ON JANUARY 1

BEACON Hill, HOW TO SPEND A $1 BILLON SURPLUS

By Bob Katzen

The Local Government Advisory Commission heard from state and local officials at a hearing last week. The topic was how the state should spend its estimated $1 billion fiscal 2018 surplus. The 40-member commission was formed to be an independent advocate for the interests of local city and town governments in their relationship with state and federal governments. Under current law, approximately half of the surplus is required to go into the state’s reserve fund. The rest is up for grabs.

Continue reading BEACON Hill, HOW TO SPEND A $1 BILLON SURPLUS

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SATURDAY, September 15, the 238th day of 2018 with 107 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:23 and sunset is @ 6:55. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1775 – An early and unofficial American flag was raised by Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Mott after the seizing of Fort Johnson from the British. The flag was dark blue with the white word “Liberty” spelled on it. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

Somerville Speakup Line: Deathblow Being Delivered To Businesses Affected By Construction Project

Photos: Broadway businesses a ghost town this past Friday night

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

Last Monday you posted and exposed the story of how local businesses from 516-523 Broadway were effectively closed while construction on Broadway began because city construction equipment and street construction barriers were blocking our businesses from opening, deliveries from happening and our customers from parking.

Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line: Deathblow Being Delivered To Businesses Affected By Construction Project

Somerville PD Beyond Call Of Duty Award Goes To Officer Ariel Collazo

This Beyond The Call Of Duty Award is based on Ariel’s unyielding effort to identify a suspect who committed an armed robbery at Kay Jewelers on August 30, 2018.

At 2:27 p.m., a suspect walked in to Kay Jewelers disguised with a ball cap pulled low on his brow and dark sunglasses. He walked to over to a clerk, handed him a bag, and said, “Fill it.” When the clerk did not immediately respond, because he didn’t understand.

Continue reading Somerville PD Beyond Call Of Duty Award Goes To Officer Ariel Collazo

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, September 14, the 237th day of 2018 with 108 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:22 and sunset is @ 6:57. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1807 – Former U.S. Vice President Aaron Burr was acquitted of a misdemeanor charge. Two weeks earlier Burr had been found innocent of treason. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

Somerville Speakup Line:Why is Somerville One of Only a Few Cities That Doesn’t Give Priority Veterans Housing

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

They removed my post on another site. So I’ll try it here. The mayor says he cares & respects veterans. But why is Somerville one of only a few cities nationwide, an all American city at that, that doesn’t give priority for veterans for housing applications to maybe move up on the list.

Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line:Why is Somerville One of Only a Few Cities That Doesn’t Give Priority Veterans Housing

Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone Renames Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples Day

Photo by Chris Devers:Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone dressed up in his annual Halloween costume as Christopher Columbus that he has used for years in Somerville.

By William Tauro

Statement from Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone

This year on Monday, October 8, the City of Somerville will observe Indigenous Peoples’ Day. We will join–among many others–Alaska, Vermont, Durango, Colo., and Traverse City, Mich., in doing the right thing. Continue reading Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone Renames Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples Day

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS THURSDAY, September 13, the 236th day of 2018 with 109 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:21 and sunset is @ 6:58. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1759 – The French were defeated by the British on the Plains of Abraham in the final French and Indian War. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

Can The City of Somerville Afford To Pay School Nurses What They Are Worth?

By William Tauro

Is the city understaffed with nurses and does it pose a potential safety problem for the students of this city in the near future?

This administration cant keep nurses employed by the city because nurses make $80k to $90k a year. It’s a sore spot because they dont want to pay the nurses the money so all the nurses are leaving for better nursing jobs.

Continue reading Can The City of Somerville Afford To Pay School Nurses What They Are Worth?

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, September 12, the 235th day of 2018 with 110 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:20 and sunset is @ 7:00. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1609 – English explorer Henry Hudson sailed down what is now known as the Hudson River. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

Somerville Chamber of Commerce GLX Bridge Closings Meeting Details

By Judy Locchi Jacobs

Members of the Somerville Chamber of Commerce met this past Tuesday morning with invited guests to discuss updates of the GLX Bridge closings and other details of the project. The event took place at the Somerville Holiday Inn and was sponsored by Sandra McGoldrick, President and CEO of the Winter Hill Bank. Continue reading Somerville Chamber of Commerce GLX Bridge Closings Meeting Details

Everett PD Arrest Cosmo Curtatone for Domestic Assault Allegations, Brother of Somerville Mayor Joseph and Middlesex Registrar of Deeds Maria Curtatone

Photo:Cosmo Curtatone campaigning for his sister South Middlesex County Registrar Maria Curtatone

By William Tauro

The Everett Police Department arrested Cosmo Curtatone early this past Tuesday morning of September 11th on assault and battery charges for allegedly beating his wife. Continue reading Everett PD Arrest Cosmo Curtatone for Domestic Assault Allegations, Brother of Somerville Mayor Joseph and Middlesex Registrar of Deeds Maria Curtatone

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, September 11, the 234th day of 2018 with 111 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:19 and sunset is @ 7:02. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1297 – Scotsman William Wallace defeated the English forces of Sir Hugh de Cressingham at the Battle of Stirling Bridge.

1499 – French forces took over Milan, Italy. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer

The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week

Many Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday greetings go out to Mary Jo O’Connor, Miriam Quinn-daSilva, Danny Johnson, April Terrio-Manning, Jo-Ann Marie Fontano, Paul Jarosiewicz, Warren Marifiote, Gary DiZoglio, Kelly Maia, Stephen Borelli, Theresa Tsoi, David Soper Liuzza, Phip J. Jeffres, Michael Walsh, Joe Murphy, Marty Henry, Philip Soccorso, Dorothy Papa DiMille and Happy 89th Birthday to longtime Somerville resident Ruth Jordan who is still going strong!

Sent in by our readers! Continue reading The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week

NEW STATE SEAL AND MOTTO CONTROVERSY ON BEACON HILL

By Bob Katzen

Bill number H 1707 was approved by the Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight and stuck in Ways and Means since February 12, 2018 is a bill that would create a special commission to examine the state seal and motto including those parts of it which have been controversial or misunderstood.

Continue reading NEW STATE SEAL AND MOTTO CONTROVERSY ON BEACON HILL