By Bob Katzen

This bill prohibits the use of cell phones by drivers in a school zone. Violators would be fined $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense and $300 for subsequent offenses.

By Bob Katzen

This bill (H 1178) approved by the Public Health Committee on May 21, 2018 and still stuck in the House Ways and Means Committee is a bill that would require the state to develop and publicize a statewide plan for ensuring the availability of prescription medications during a state of emergency. Continue reading ENSURE PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE IS AVAILABLE DURING EMERGENCIES →

By Bob Katzen

Bill (S 1217), approved by the Public Health Committee on April 2, 2018 and still stuck in the Senate Ways and Means Committee is a bill that would require all food and beverages sold through vending machines located in government buildings be limited to items that comply with the nutritional standards established by the state’s commissioner of public health.

By Bob Katzen

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

Continue reading Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 43 – Report No.41 October 8-12, 2018 →

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Continue reading Somerville Council on Aging Weekly Updates & Information →

Fall is in the air and before we put away our clubs for the winter we have a golf tournament to honor the memory and legacy of Ken Kelly.

Continue reading KEN KELLY MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT – Help RESPOND on October 15th →

In this issue:

• Even worse traffic nightmares coming soon; more on Broadway/Ball Square Bridge closure, detour routes, and mitigating the traffic and public safety impacts

• Cedar Street to be paved next week

• Tree slaughter and the need for more open and green space in Somerville

• Citywide zoning overhaul up again for round 3; public hearing rescheduled to October 30, 6 PM

• Important meetings, public hearings and early voting schedule Continue reading Somerville Ward 5 Alderman Mark Niedergang:Worse traffic nightmares coming; Cedar St paving; trees & open space; citywide zoning overhaul →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SATURDAY, October 13, the 286th day of 2018 with 79 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:54 and sunset is @ 6:06. 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 – The U.S. Continental Congress ordered the construction of a naval fleet.

1792 – The cornerstone of the Executive Mansion was laid in Washington, DC. The building became known as the White House in 1818. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Please join Ward 7 Alderman Katjana Ballantyne, and staff from the City’s Engineering Department and Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development on Wednesday, October 24 at 7 p.m. in the cafeteria of the West Somerville Neighborhood School at 177 Powder House Blvd. to discuss upcoming improvements and paving to Powder House Blvd.

Continue reading Community Meeting to Discuss Powder House Blvd. Improvements, ‪October 24‬   →

The Somerville Commission for Persons with Disabilities invites all community members to its annual event in celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, on Tuesday, October 23, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Continue reading National Disability Employment Awareness Month Event, ‪October 23‬ →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, October 12, the 285th day of 2018 with 80 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:52 and sunset is @ 6:08. 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: 1492 – Christopher Columbus, an Italian explorer, sighted Watling Island in the Bahamas. He believed that he had found Asia while attempting to find a Western ocean route to India. The same day he claimed the land for Isabella and Ferdinand of Spain. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Supporters of The Elizabeth Peabody House came together to celebrate the start of the school year and raise money for the organization’s preschool, after school, summer camp and food pantry, which serve families in Somerville and surrounding communities.

Continue reading Somerville Elizabeth Peabody House Fall Fundraiser 2018 →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Joseph Curtatone and the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD), in collaboration with LaCourt Enterprises LLC, are pleased to announce an affordable rental opportunity for two (2) rental units at the Chadwick building located at 131 Orchard Street in Davis Square. Continue reading 2 Affordable Rental Units Now Available at the Chadwick Building, ‪131 Orchard Street‬ Somerville →

Ben Echevarria was recently honored by the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus (MBLLC) at the first annual Latinx Excellence on the Hill day. Continue reading Ben Echevarria of Somerville Celebrated at Latinx Achievement Event on Beacon Hill →

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

I have a few questions about the construction project going on in front of Trum Field right now. I know it supposed to have something to do with an oil spill last year near Sullivan Square. I would like to know the following….. Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line:Unanswered Questions on Broadway Meltdown →

Thursday October 25th, 2018 at the Mount Vernon Restaurant 14 Broadway Somerville, Massachusetts

Continue reading A NIGHT OF SPIRITUAL TAROT AND MEDIUMSHIP GALLERY READINGS IN SOMERVILLE →

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

I just found out that Cross Street Market & Del have 30 days to get out after 24 years of business. I’m so disappointed that our Portuguse people now have no where else t go, specially the elderly it makes me cry. I heard they want them to build condominiums. Why is this shit happening given people and businesses 30 days to get out after 24 years in business wtf maybe you can help. Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line: Cross Street Market & Deli 30 Days to Get Out After 24 Years of Business →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS THURSDAY, October 11, the 284th day of 2018 with 81 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:51 and sunset is @ 6:09. 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: 1776 – During the American Revolution the first naval battle of Lake Champlain was fought. The forces under Gen. Benedict Arnold suffered heavy losses. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

October 10, 2018

Governor Charlie Baker

Office of the Governor

Massachusetts State House

24 Beacon Street, Room 280

Boston, MA 02133

Dear Governor Baker,

I am writing you today in the hopes that you could help the residents and business owners located along McGrath Highway, Somerville Avenue and Medford Street in Somerville.   Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line:A Letter to Governor Charlie Baker Pleading For Help →

Dear BillyT and Somerville Speakup Line,

A TOTAL DISRESPECT TO MY FATHER AND HIS MEMOR also disrespect of the 2 flags that were taken off the pole.

Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line: A TOTAL DISRESPECT TO MY FATHER AND HIS MEMORY →

Join the Little Sisters of the Poor for their annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, November 10, from 9am – 4pm at the Jeanne Jugan Residence (186 Highland Avenue) in Somerville! This event has become a tradition for many people in the area, and is a can’t miss event of the season! Continue reading Join Little Sisters of the Poor for Their Annual Christmas Bazaar ‪on Saturday, November 10‬ →

By William Tauro

There are reports of that there were multiple shots fired in the vicinity of Heath and Temple Streets in Somerville this past Tuesday night at around midnight.

Continue reading Shots Fired in Somerville →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS WEDNESDAY, October 10, the 283rd day of 2018 with 82 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:50 and sunset is @ 6:11 . 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: 1845 – The United States Naval Academy opened in Annapolis, MD. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, October 09, the 282nd day of 2018 with 83 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:49 and sunset is @ 6:13. 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: 1635 – Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, was banished from Massachusetts because he had spoken out against punishments for religious offenses and giving away land that belonged to the Indians. Williams had founded Providence, Rhode Island as a place for people to seek religious freedom. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Click on link below to read:October 9th, 2018 The Somerville News Weekly Print Edition Online October 9th, 2018 The Somerville News Weekly Print Edition Online (2) (2)

Meet this week’s “Special Person of the Week:Will Mbah Alderman-At-Large Somerville

Originally from a small city in Cameroon, Will received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Buea, where he was also an advocate for student rights during frequent periods of campus unrest.  Continue reading Somerville News Weekly’s Special Person of the Week Will Mbah Alderman-At-Large →

Our condolences go out to the family and friends of Irving E. Johansen on his passing this past week.

Irving E. Johansen was a wonderful person as well as a true gentleman’s gentleman with a heart of gold who was very active in the community.

Continue reading Somerville Remembering Irving E. Johansen →

Happy 9th Wedding Anniversary to Katie and John Stamatakis

Happy 37th Wedding Anniversary to Patty and Anthony Kalicki

Happy 27th Wedding Anniversary to Karen and Ken Benoit

Happy 40th Anniversary to Eileen and Tony Costa

Continue reading Somerville News Weekly Magic Moments Series →

Many Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday greetings go out to Jeanine Montalbano, Stephen Callinan, Conner Murphy, Gary Ward, David M McLean, Julio Braga, Randy Goldman, Jacqueline Jolicoeur, Silvia Via, Kevin Shackelford, Richard Talluto, Mike Leblanc, Alfred Baldasaro, Chris Sennott, Brian Moister, Agostinho Rego, Jon French, Barbara DeBerio Carli, Joe Jorge, Dave Condon, Dan Panico, Karen Versackas, Kevin O’Connor, Jerrilyn Denise Mitrano, Sandra Coppola, Robert O’Loughlin, Anthony Cota, Will Mbah, Marie OConnor Clifford, Steve Hardy and Diana Szeto

Sent in by our readers!

Continue reading The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

Continue reading Fun Stuff Happening This Fall With The Aleppo Shriners →

Photo from GBNEMBA website

EVENT DATE:  Sunday, October 14, 2018 – 9:00am to 1:00pm

The Greater Boston chapter of the New England Mountain Biking Association (GBNEMBA) will be hosting a Kids Mountain Biking Festival at the Middlesex Fells, Sheepfold Parking Lot, Stoneham MA.

Schedule of Events Continue reading Greater Boston NEMBA to Hold Kids Mountain Bike Festival →

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Continue reading Somerville Council on Aging Weekly Updates & Information →

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

There are no words and there are no excuses why the residents of Somerville have to live like this. Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line:Dead Rats Right in Front of My Driveway →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS MONDAY, October 08, the 281st day of 2018 with 84 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:48 and sunset is @ 6:14. The New Moon is exact @ 11:48 PM. The morning stars are stars are Jupiter, Mars, Mercury & Saturn. The evening stars are Neptune, Uranus & Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1895 – The Berliner Gramophone Company was founded in Philadelphia, PA. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Watch and Share: The Healey-McMahon Debate

Click on link below to view October 3rd debate:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0xNg1XH_3iA#dialog

The City of Somerville Elections Department is seeking polling place workers for the Tuesday, November 6, election. The Elections Department has openings for several polling place staff and one experienced warden. Continue reading Somerville Polling Place Workers and Warden Sought for Nov. 6 Election →

This year’s Tufts University Community Day was a huge success, bringing some 3,000 neighbors to the Medford/Somerville campus this past Sunday, Sept. 30, for music, festivities, and a BBQ lunch.

Continue reading Tufts Community Day Photos →

Join the Somerville Conservation Commission and the Mystic River Watershed Association to pick up trash at Draw Seven Park as part of the annual statewide COASTSWEEP cleanup. Continue reading Somerville COASTSWEEP Cleanup Day at Draw Seven Park, ‪10/27‬ →

WHAT:                On Tuesday, October 16, Boston’s Award-Winning Chef and Pitmaster, Andy Husbands of The Smoke Shop hosts the next installment of the inaugural Pitmaster Dinner Series, featuring World Record-Breaking Champion Pitmaster, Tuffy Stone. Presented by Maker’s Mark, the monthly dinner series is the first of its kind to debut in New England, bringing World BBQ Champions from across the country to The Smoke Shop’s newest location at Assembly Row.

Continue reading Boston Chef & Resident Pitmaster Andy Husbands Hosts Maker’s Mark Pitmaster Dinner Series with BBQ Legend Tuffy Stone Bringing the Country’s Biggest Names in BBQ to The Smoke Shop at Assembly Row →

Did you know that failure to return your completed Census form could impact how long you stand in line on Election Day? If you did not vote in the September 4 Primary Election and haven’t returned this year’s census form you could now be an inactive voter. Continue reading Return Completed Census Form to Help Shorten Election Day Lines →

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Secretary of State’s office is also warning voters of a potential scam involving phone calls from people fraudulently offering to register voters over the phone. Continue reading BEWARE OF PHONE SCAMS →

By Bob Katzen

Secretary of State Bill Galvin announced that absentee ballots for the November 6th State Election are now available. Continue reading ABSENTEE BALLOTS AVAILABLE FOR NOVEMBER 6 ELECTION →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill designed to make it easier for Massachusetts residents to get the state to enforce a judgement the resident has received from another state. Continue reading EASIER ENFORCEMENT OF OUT-OF-STATE COURT JUDGEMENTS →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved a Senate-approved bill that would require the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to issue guidelines to assist districts in developing screening procedures or protocols for students that demonstrate one or more potential indicators of dyslexia or other neurological learning disabilities.

Continue reading MASS SENATE DISCUSSIONS ON DYSLEXIA SCREENING →

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 begins are three-part series that looks at the three ballot questions that will be on the November 6 ballot. First up: Question 1.

Continue reading Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 43 -Report No. October 1-5, 2018 →

October 7: Docent Tour of Milk Row Cemetery

October 9: Ward 1 ResiStat

October 11: Docent Tour of Prospect Hill Tower

October 11: Somerville Entrepreneur Network: What to Know About Health Insurance

Continue reading Somerville-OTHER EVENTS AND DATES →

Here are a few things City staff are currently seeking feedback on. We always appreciate when people spare a few minutes to provide input and ideas:

Continue reading Somerville We Want to Hear from You →

The City of Somerville Elections Department is seeking polling place workers for the Tuesday, November 6, election. The Elections Department has openings for several polling place staff and one experienced warden. Continue reading Somerville Polling Place Workers Needed →

Somerville joined with the 14 other Boston-area communities in the Metro Mayors Coalition this week in pledging to add 185,000 new housing units to the region by 2030 to help address the ongoing regional housing crisis. Since 2010, the Boston area gained 110,000 new residents but only permitted 32,500 new units of housing. Continue reading Somerville Joins Regional Housing Effort →

Do you like pizza? Do you like knowing more about what’s happening in your neighborhood and around Somerville? If you answered yes to either of those questions, you should come to your neighborhood’s ResiStat meeting this fall.

Continue reading 2018 Fall ResiStat Community Meeting Schedule →

Don’t let the deadline pass you by. You need to register by Wednesday, October 17, to be eligible to vote on Tuesday, November 6. In Massachusetts you have the option of registering to vote online (if you have a Massachusetts license or ID), in person, or by mail. Continue reading Somerville Are You Registered? →

Community media encourages local dialogue, increases discourse around policy issues, fosters an understanding of local cultures, and shares information to improve our lives. Somerville Media Center is happy to participate in this nationally celebrated holiday on October 20 with many others nationwide! We have a bunch of family friendly activities happening throughout the day, please keep reading to learn more!

Continue reading Celebrate Community Media in Somerville on Oct. 20 #CommunityMediaDay →

FREE Halloween event features safe trick-or-treating at City Hall, pumpkin decorating, activities for kids, haunted pathway and more! Continue reading 2018 “Haunted Hall” Halloween Event Set for ‪October 18‬ at City Hall, SHS Concourse →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SUNDAY, October 07, the 280th day of 2018 with 85 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:47 and sunset is @ 6:16. 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: 1765 – Nine American colonies sent a total of 28 delegates to New York City for the Stamp Act Congress. The delegates adopted the “Declaration of Rights and Grievances.” Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SATURDAY, October 06, the 279th day of 2018 with 86 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:46 and sunset is @ 6:18. 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: 1683 – The first Mennonites arrived in America aboard the Concord. The German and Dutch families settled in an area that is now a neighborhood in Philadelphia, PA. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke visited Charlestown Navy Yard this morning. As an Iraq War veteran, community organizer, and local elected official I asked Zinke about his commitment to public lands. Continue reading Somerville Alderman Matthew Mclaughlin: Veteran Approaches Secretary Zinke About Exploiting Public Lands →

Good news! Finally, starting next week, ALL of Cedar St. will be repaved. This coming Tuesday, October 9 and Weds Oct 10 all of Cedar Street will be milled by two different contractors working at the same time. During those two days Cedar St will be closed with the usual detours. Continue reading Somerville Ward 5 Alderman Mark Niedergang:Construction and Detour Information Updates →

Limited 3Week Run Dec 6- Dec 23rd, 2018

at the Regent Theatre in Arlington, MA

BOSTON, Ma. (September 27th ):  Prepare yourselves for a brand new, outrageously funny, all-singing, all-dancing, all-cooking extravaganza as the Calamari Sisters take the stage for “A Little Christmas with the Calamari Sisters”.

Continue reading A LITTLE CHRISTMAS WITH THE CALAMARI SISTERS:JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT WAS SAFE TO GO BACK INTO THE KITCHEN →

The majority of Somerville High School’s Class of 1981 will have turned 55 years old this year.

So they threw themselves a little party at the Wakefield Elks last Saturday September 29th. Continue reading Somerville High School Class of 1981 Turns 55 years Old →

Alderman-At-Large Will Mbah

October Newsletter

The Board of Alderman legislative session is in full swing and there many exciting things coming up this fall. I wanted to take time in this newsletter to tell you about a hearing I am running as the chair of the Open Space, Environment, and Energy Committee on the destruction of trees in the city. In addition, I’ll share some helpful dates and events that are coming up soon that you can get involved in. Enjoy! Continue reading Somerville Alderman-At-Large Will Mbah Bill — October Newsletter →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, October 05, the 278th day of 2018 with 87 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:45 and sunset is @ 6:20. 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: 1813 – Chief Tecumseh of the Shawnee Indians was killed at the Battle of Thames when American forced defeated the British and the allied Indian warriors. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

(Somerville, MA) Naveo Credit Union hosted Hops & Homebuyers, a first time homebuyer workshop at Aeronaut Brewing Co., one of their member businesses and neighbors, on Wednesday, September 19. The workshop garnered attention from many non-members, allowing Naveo to meet new people, educate them on what a credit union is and how to prepare them for buying their first home with the help of a local financial institution. Continue reading Somerville-Naveo Credit Union Hosts Another Successful Hops & Homebuyers Workshop, a First Time Homebuyer Workshop, with Aeronaut Brewing Co. →

Free Open Streets event to feature live music, family-friendly activities, and more!

SOMERVILLE – Join us at the last SomerStreets festival of the year, the spooky and fun “Monster Mashed-up” on Sunday, October 14, from 2 to 6 p.m. on Somerville Ave. between Union Square and Park St. 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 “Monster Mashed-Up” at SomerStreets on Somerville Ave. ‪Sunday, October 14‬ →

Growing advocacy group plans major rally ahead of hearing on US2 development

Somerville, MA – Somerville Stands Together, a community-labor coalition fighting for affordable housing, good jobs and responsible development, knocked hundreds of doors in a campaign to make sure Union Square won’t turn into another Assembly Row–where developers got rich and local residents got nothing but skyrocketing rents and worse traffic.  Continue reading Somerville Stands Together Demands Responsible Development for Union Square →

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

I would like to voice my concern about the rats. Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line:At the Mercy of Rats and Mayor →

This past Wednesday afternoon, Chief Gary L. Thomann of the Pelham Police Department representing the New England Association of Chiefs awarded the Somerville Police Department with the 2018 Community Policing Award in the category of city population over 50,000.

Continue reading SPD Awarded 2018 Community Policing Award in the category of city population over 50,000 →

On Monday, October 8, City offices will be closed in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Continue reading Monday October 8, Somerville City Offices Closed in Observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day →

By William Tauro

What on earth is going on with the quality of service with the MBTA THE RIDE that it has become so stressful and absolutely humiliating for riders that use this service.

In my own opinion and observations of witnessing horror show situations with THE RIDE and multiple run ins with (Veterans Transportation Services aka V.T.S.), a contractor of the MBTA and boy do I have a story to tell. Continue reading MBTA THE RIDE, A Humiliating Disaster In Somerville/Metro Boston Areas →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS THURSDAY, October 04, the 277th day of 2018 with 88 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:43 and sunset is @ 6:21. 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: 1535 – The first complete English translation of the Bible was printed in Zurich, Switzerland.

1648 – The first volunteer fire department was established in New York by Peter Stuyvesant. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Five new officers sworn in last Friday night will be starting the Police Academy this October. We are excited for their futures in law enforcement.

This past weekend the Somerville Police participated in the annual New Hampshire Trooper Association Basketball Tournament. This tournament is sponsored by the New Hampshire Trooper Association who honor a fallen officer each year. This year they have chosen to honor the late Somerville Officer Lou Remigio, Lou’s daughters Danielle and Ali served as honorary coaches.

Continue reading Somerville PD Participate in Annual NH Trooper Association Basketball Tournament In Honor of Late SPD Officer Lou Remigio →

It’s TWISTOBER! CB Scoops is announcing its first ever contest! A customer interactive competition to create the most random, original, and delicious CB Twister you can imagine! You’ll pick your ice cream, additional flavors and any toppings you desire. There will be 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners. Winners will be selected by our CB Scoops staff. The prizes will be gift cards to CB Scoops in the amount of $25, $15 & $10! 1st place twister will also become a permanent menu item!

Continue reading CB Scoops Ice Cream TWISTOBER Contest →

Continue reading Burlington Pain Center 781-272-9500 →

SOMERVILLE – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Somerville Chief of Police David Fallon have confirmed that Anthony Canejo Senior, 57, of Somerville, pleaded guilty today in Middlesex Superior Court to manslaughter, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon in violation of a restraining order, violating a restraining order and improper disposal of human remains in connection with the 2014 death of Vincent Lalli, 66, of Somerville. Continue reading Somerville Man Pleads Guilty in Connection with 2014 Death of Roommate →

By William Tauro

Michael Lacey the man accused of defacing a grave then urinating on American flags at the Somerville Veterans Memorial Cemetery has turned himself in to the Somerville Courthouse this past week. Lacey, 31, as you recall last month is being was seen and caught in the act by a Good Samaritan who witnessed the entire event and even confronted the suspect at the scene.

Continue reading Why Wasn’t Somerville Flag Urinating Suspect’s Extradition Completed? →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, October 02, the 275th day of 2018 with 90 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:41 and sunset is @ 6:25. 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 – King Henry VII of England invaded France. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Click on link to read:October 2nd, 2018 The Somerville News Weekly Print Edition Online October 2nd, 2018 The Somerville News Weekly Print Edition Online (2)

State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump says that the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) has agreed to follow through on its pledge to improve its management of construction contracts. Continue reading Issues identified by 2011 external audit not fully addressed by MBTA →

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 Diane Marie, Ash Ray, Ada Tauro, Jack Bailey, Patrick Catino, Dan Hardy, Anthony Petruccelli, Kevin Lee, Gabriel Ciccariello, Mike Capuano, Paul Craven, Sandra Caruso, Michael Buckley, Deb Muise Bingel, Nancy Murphy Curtatone and Jose Medeiros

Sent in by our readers!

Continue reading The Somerville News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

Somerville Rotary welcomes their new member Lisa Ramos of Century Bank. Lisa Ramos joined Century Bank in 2000 and has built many strong relationships with her customers over the past 18 years. Continue reading Somerville Rotary Inducts New Member Lisa Ramos →

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

The geniuses don’t think of anything but their own perspective. The BOA continue to be shocked at push-back on anything such as the transfer tax. Although they ‘serve’ the people of Somerville, they truly serve only select fractions – ie the affordable housing people and the special interest groups.

Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line: Aldermen Although They Serve the People of Somerville, They Truly Serve Only Select Fractions →

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

With the work going on now by Trum, traffic is down to one lane in each direction. I travel this route frequently and even at 8:00 am this morning, work traffic did not result in a backup. This was a perfect trial run of cutting down to 2 lanes and seeing that traffic flows really well. Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line:Broadway Traffic Fiasco →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and the Board of Aldermen invite residents to the Fall 2018 ResiStat Community Meetings, a twice-yearly effort to share the latest City news, data, and neighborhood updates directly with residents and gather their feedback. Continue reading Somerville Fall 2018 ResiStat Meeting Schedule →

On Sunday, September 30th 2018, I, Officer Mark Canty, responded to KMART at 4:15 PM for a shoplifter in the office. Upon arrival I spoke with the loss prevention officer, XXXX, who said he had observed Ms. Jennifer Rivera reaching over the jewelry counter and remove a ring from the display case. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Jennifer RIVERA (Larceny Over $1200) →

On September 29, 2018 I was on patrol with my Field Training Officer, Officer Tim Van Nostrand in Cruiser East 1. At around 2142 we took a call to the XXXX at 1xx Highland Ave, Somerville, MA for the removal of unwanted persons. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Kenji MATSUDA (Disorderly, VCO Poss of DW) →

On September 27, 2018, at approximately 13:50 hours, I received a request for assistance from Kmart Loss Prevention, regarding a shoplifter who had just fled the store. Loss Prevention officers stated that they were currently watching the suspect in front of the Steve Madden store. The suspect was described as a Hispanic male, wearing a blue shirt and blue pants.

Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Pedro RODRIGUEZ HERNANDEZ (Shoplifting) at Kmart →

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

NARRATIVE

The following is a brief summary of facts pertaining to incident #18057885.

Investigators Browne and Gabaree were dispatched to 1xx Alewife Brook Pkwy- outside- for a report of an ARMED

ROBBERY C265 S17 to with a knife.

Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Luis ACEVEDO (Armed Robbery) →

On Thursday, 09/27/2018, at @ 2;47 A.M., while on uniformed patrol in Car E-2, I was dispatched to the area of #xx Union Sq. for a report of possible glass breakage and attempted B&E. A call was received by Somerville 911 of loud noises and possible breaking glass at this building site. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Kevin MACDONALD (Defacement Malicious Wanton Property) →

On Wednesday, September 26, 2018,  Officer Mark Nevin and I (Officer Dylan Lambert)  were working our assigned shift in Ward 6. At approximately 7:45 PM we were dispatched to a call involving a fight in front of Sligo’s Bar. We were around the corner and arrived within a minute from being dispatched.

Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Kelli LOPER (A&B, A&B on 60+ or Disabled, Larceny from Person) & Keith HILL (A&B, A&B on 60+ or Disabled, Larceny from Person) & SPD Warrant) →

On Wednesday September 26, 2018 I was assigned to uniform patrol marked unit west 5 with my FTO officer Ducasse. At approximately 1:30 PM we were dispatched to x Tannery Row Apt xx, along with officer Difava in cruiser west 6, for a report of a B&E in progress. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Amy MCGREGOR (B&E) →

On 9/26/2018 I was on patrol with my Field Training Officer, Officer Tim Van Nostrand assigned to patrol in cruiser E1. At approximately 1300 we were dispatched to a report of a shoplifter in the area of Grand Union Blvd and Artisan Way. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Joel SYLVIA (Shoplifting) →

On the afternoon of Monday, September 24, 2018, Somerville E-911 received a call for a black female possibly trying to abduct a child from the area of the Argenziano School. E-2 Officer Brioso, E-3 Officer Ubeda, C-2 Officer Manzelli, E-4 Officer Morreira and I responded to the scene. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Shea-Lyn MORTON (A&B, Attempt to Commit Crime) →

By Bob Katzen

Bill # (H 2285) – Removes a child from the custody of his or her parent who is convicted of murdering the child’s other parent. Continue reading NO PARENTAL RIGHTS FOR MURDERERS PROPOSAL →

By Bob Katzen

Bill #(S 832) – Takes away the parental rights of convicted rapists. The measure prohibits convicted rapists from getting custody of or obtaining visitation rights to see the child born from the rape. It also allows the courts, despite this termination of rights, to require that the perpetrator of the rape pay child support.

By Bob Katzen

Bill#(H 1617) – Imposes an excise tax on private universities that have an endowment fund in excess of $1 billion. The tax would be 2.5 percent of the institution’s funds that exceed $1 billion. The bill earmarks the revenue for subsidizing the cost of higher education, early education and childcare for lower-income and middle-class residents. Current state law exempts nonprofit institutions, including universities, from paying property taxes.

Continue reading BEACON HILL DISCUSSIONS ON TAXING COLLEGE ENDOWMENTS →

By Bob Katzen

Bill# (H 788) – Allows adults to petition the probate court for the adoption of an embryo.

Embryos are often left over from in vitro fertilization attempts to help couples have children. The couples would have the option of freezing the embryos and then donating them to other couples, giving them to scientists for embryonic stem-cell research or destroying them. Continue reading ADOPT AN EMBRYO COMING TO MASSACHUSETTS →

By Bob Katzen

Stuck in the Senate Rules Committee since August 3, 2017 after the Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee gave it a favorable report, is a bill that would allow Lottery winners to refuse to have their name, address or other identifying information be released to the public. The measure also allows winners to forego all public appearances related to his or her winning the Lottery including the one at which the winner is given an oversized check to hold at Lottery Headquarters.

Continue reading HIDE IDENTITY OF LOTTERY WINNERS →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Charlie Baker and animal rights activists and supporters joined together for a ceremonial signing of legislation designed to protect cats and dogs. The new law will take effect on November 17. Continue reading MASSACHUSETTS ANIMAL PROTECTION LEGISLATION SIGNED BY GOVERNOR →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill creating a new vehicle license plate available at no cost to for spouses, parents, children, siblings and grandchild of police and firefighters who have died in the line of duty. The plate would bear a red star or blue star or a design approved by the registrar.

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 how often local representatives voted with their party’s leadership.

Continue reading Beacon Hill Roll Call Volume 43 -Report No. 39 September 24-28, 2018 →

Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Arrest Log 9/24/18 – 9/30/18 →

By William Tauro

I think it’s time to complain to the Somerville Board of Aldermen about the rodent problems going on throughout the city.

We’ve been getting more reports of increased rat and mice populations getting into homes of residents, some rodents are embedding themselves into stoves and in other hidden areas which could pose a health hazard.

Continue reading OH RATS! SOMERVILLE’S RODENT INFESTATION →

New program possible thanks to grant award from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Public Library will soon introduce “Food for Thought,” a community gardening and cooking initiative, thanks in large part to a Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) grant in the amount of $8,315 from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC). Continue reading Somerville Public Library to Launch “Food For Thought” Community Gardening and Cooking Initative →

ONGOING PROGRAMS

Continue reading Somerville Council on Aging Weekly Updates & Information →

THE STARTING LINE IS ONLY 8 DAYS AWAY! Continue reading The Somerville 5K Road Race is Almost Here! →

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS MONDAY, October 01, the 274th day of 2018 with 91 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 6:40 and sunset is @ 6:27. 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: 1569 – The Duke of Norfolk was imprisoned by Britain’s Queen Elizabeth for trying to marry Mary the Queen of Scots. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

First, there should be a class action lawsuit by all those affected by this closure. Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line:There Should Be Class Action Lawsuit Filed on GLX Plan for Bride Closing →

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

People stop attending these meetings once they learn it is all a dog and pony show. No answers are given to the really hard questions, and the answers you do get are often wrong. Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line: Aldermen Were Asleep at the Switch on GLX Plans Including Bride Closing →

Dear Billy T and Somerville Speakup Line,

Did you hear about what’s going on at SHS? I received this notice listed below this past Friday night September 28th at 5:32 PM.

There was a threat of gun violence at the Somerville High School. All they can tell parents that they have increased police activity. There’s still no word or mention of whether or not if the student is presently at the school.

Continue reading Somerville Speakup Line: Gun Violence Threat at the Somerville High School →

Captain Commanding Charles J. McCarthy, Jr. led 125 members and guests of the AHAC Company to the Vietnam Wall and the Iwo Jima monuments.  During the solemn exercises at both venues AHAC members marched respectfully onto the hallowed grounds, where they were greeted by Honor Flight veterans from World War II and the Korean War. Continue reading Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts (AHAC) participate in wreath laying ceremonies at military memorials in Washington, DC →