The City will lift the snow emergency as of 5 p.m. today, and normal parking regulations will resume. Continue reading Medford Snow Emergency Lifts at 5:00pm Today Monday Jan 31 →

On Monday, January 24, 2022, at 8:10 P.M., Sgt. Schneider was handling a call for service at the intersection of Grand Union Blvd and Canal Street when he was approached by three security guards and a male later identified as Sean EVERSON (Defendant) who was carrying several items of clothing with price tags and theft detection devices attached. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Sean EVERSON (Poss. Class B, Shoplifting) (MSP Warrants) at Burlington Coat Factory in Assembly Row →

The following report is a brief summary of incident #22003924:

On January 25, 2022, I, Officer Dylan Lambert, was working my assigned shift in marked unit East-1. At approximately 4:38 PM, I was dispatched to Adidas in Assembly Row in regards to a dispute involving a weapon. Officer Messaoudi, in marked unit East-4 responded to assist. Somerville Dispatch informed us that the reporting party spoke Spanish, but it was determined that they had been threatened with a knife. Officer Ubeda, in Tango-1 responded to assist in translation. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Daniel CUNHA (ADW, Shoplifting) Adidas in Assembly Row →

On Sunday, January 30, 2022, at approximately 10:17 P.M., Somerville Police control received a 9-1-1 call from a victim identified as XXXX stating he was in the area of 78 Broadway, and someone was trying to assault him. While on the phone with the 9-1-1 operator, the victim said “He is trying to take my phone, he hit me”. The victim is heard asking people for help before the call was disconnected. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Luciano DELIRA (A&B, Defacement, Intimidation, ABPO) →

By Bob Katzen

“The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a remarkable increase in activations and deployments for the National Guard. As a result, the Guard is the busiest it has been since World War II. It is absolutely critical that we—as a Legislature—are doing everything we can to support the Guard as they continue to serve and support us.” Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Another bill heard by the Transportation Committee would create a 400-foot vertical zone above schools where drones would be banned from flying unless the school superintendent grants written permission. The fine would be $250 for a first offense, $500 for a second offense and a $750 fine plus confiscation of the aircraft for a third offense. Continue reading BAN DRONES FROM FLYING NEAR SCHOOLS →

By Bob Katzen

Another bill heard by the Judiciary Committee would ban the manufacturing in Massachusetts of assault weapons and large capacity feeding devices. The measure exempts weapons and devices made for the Massachusetts military and law enforcement, for the federal military or any foreign government approved by the United States State Department. Continue reading STATE TO BAN MANUFACTURING OF ASSAULT WEAPONS AND LARGE CAPACITY FEEDING DEVICES →

By Bob Katzen

The Judiciary Committee held a virtual hearing on legislation that would add height discrimination to the definition of a hate crime which currently includes any criminal act, coupled with overt actions motivated by bigotry and bias including racial, religious, ethnic, handicap, gender, gender identity or sexual orientation prejudice; or “which otherwise deprives another person of his constitutional rights by threats, intimidation or coercion, or which seek to interfere with or disrupt a person’s exercise of constitutional rights through harassment or intimidation.” Continue reading PROHIBIT DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF HEIGHT →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a Senate-approved bill that would repeal a current law which prohibits adoption of children by family members including older siblings, aunts and uncles. Continue reading MAKE ADOPTION BY FAMILY MEMBERS EASIER →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 9-31, rejected an amendment that would require the state to provide COVID-19 funding, until the end of the federal public health emergency, to nursing homes to support infection control standards, including staff training and wages; temporary labor costs; hiring new staff; procuring personal protective equipment (PPE); and costs associated with establishing single occupancy isolation rooms. Continue reading STATE SHOULD PROVIDE ADDITIONAL MONEY TO NURSING HOMES →

Senate 40-0, approved a $76 million COVID-19 response bill. Key provisions provide $30 million to increase the number of COVID-19 testing sites and purchase COVID-19 tests and $5 million earmarked to expanding vaccination rates among kids ages 5 to 11 whose vaccination rates remain low in comparison to older residents Continue reading $76 MILLION FOR COVID-19 (S 2622) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 32-126, rejected an amendment that would require voters to show a federal or Massachusetts picture identification at their polling places in order to be allowed to vote. The state would also be required to establish a waiver of the fee for obtaining the ID for indigent persons. Continue reading REQUIRE VOTER ID →

By Bob Katzen

House 31-127, rejected an amendment that would prohibit any city or town from requiring that a voter show proof of vaccination as a condition of entering a polling place to vote or to register to vote.

Continue reading PROOF OF VACCINATION →

(H 4359)
By Bob Katzen

The House 124-34, approved a bill making permanent the mail-in and early voting options used in Massachusetts in 2020. Continue reading ELECTION LAW CHANGES →

LILLIAN’S OBITUARY
Gould, Lillian—Of Somerville, passed away peacefully Sunday January 23rd ,at the Glen Ridge Nursing Home in Medford. She was 93.
Born in Cambridge and raised in Arlington, she was the daughter of the late Daniel and Josephine (Holmes) Gould. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lillian Gould →

MARY’S OBITUARY
Haker, Mary F. (Murphy) 96, of Plymouth, formerly of Somerville, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Monday January 24, 2022.

Born and raised in Somerville, Mary was the daughter of the late Thomas J. and Esther M. (Covert) Murphy. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary F. (Murphy) Haker →

Sidewalk Snow Clearing Pilot Starts with Next Snowstorm (Saturday, January 29)
Properties on Broadway and School St. are part of the Winter 2022 Sidewalk Snow Clearing Pilot to test options to support safer travel.
For the pilot, the City will Continue reading Sidewalk Snow Clearing Pilot Starts →

WILLIAM’S OBITUARY
William T. “Billy” Miniscalco, of Everett and formerly of Somerville, passed away on January 27, 2022, he was 68.
Born in Stoneham, Billy was the cherished son of the late Margaret (Bishop) and William Miniscalco. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William T. “Billy” Miniscalco →

SIDA’S OBITUARY
Sida “Grandmoun” Enrius, 92, of Somerville, MA, formally Marchand Dessaline, Haiti passed away with family by her side on January 19 2022. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Sida “Grandmoun” Enrius →

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville’s snow emergency will end Monday, January 31, at 6 a.m., and normal parking rules will resume at that time. Vehicles can be parked on the even side of the street starting at 6 a.m. Monday. Crews will continue plowing and shoveling Sunday and Monday to remove additional snow from this historic storm. Continue reading SOMERVILLE SNOW EMERGENCY ENDS MONDAY, JANUARY 31, AT 6 a.m. MOVE CARS FROM CITY LOTS BY 8 a.m. MONDAY →

Good morning! We hope you are safe and warm as you wake up to a wintery Somerville! Here’s what you should know about snow removal today: Continue reading Somerville Storm Updates →

A snow emergency will go into effect at 4 p.m. on Friday, January 28. Beginning at 4 p.m., cars will have four hours (until 8 p.m.) to move to the ODD-numbered side of the street. Any exceptions will be noted by nearby signs. Residents are free to begin moving their cars to the odd side at any time. Continue reading Somerville Declares Snow Emergency will go into effect at 4 p.m. on Friday, January 28. Beginning at 4 p.m. →

Parking restrictions in effect as of 10 pm Friday

(MEDFORD)—The City of Medford is declaring a snow emergency to go into effect at 10 p.m. on Friday. Department of Public Works staff will work throughout the night and into the day Saturday prepping and removing snow from the roadways. With forecasts predicting over two feet of snow, please be patient as crews will be working as fast as possible to make roads accessible.
Continue reading CITY OF MEDFORD DECLARES SNOW EMERGENCY FOR FRIDAY, JANUARY 28 AT 10 PM →

Break In Log Jan 18 2022 to Jan 24 2022
Somerville Police Respond to Breaking & Entering

22002705: On 1/18/22 at approximately 2:09 PM, Somerville Police responded to a residence on Carver St for report of a past breaking and entering. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated he observed the lock on his shed was taken off and two bikes were missing. Continue reading Somerville Police Respond to Breaking & Entering →

Cathy E. Cella
1952 – 2022

An incredibly generous person who was the epitome of grace and kindness, Cathy Cella passed away

She led a life defined by a devotion to children; her own son and daughter, her nieces and nephews, and her greatest source of joy, her grandchildren. She had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel welcome, like they mattered, and were loved and accepted. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Cathy E. Cella →

Click on link below to read January 25th, 2022 Print Edition Online
January 25th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Click on link below to read January 25th, 2022 Somerville/Medford News Weekly Online January 25th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

This is a brief summary pertaining to incident #22002410:

On January 17, 2022, while in uniform, I was assigned to marked unit East-1 working the 12 AM to 8 AM shift. At approximately 12:26 AM I was dispatched to 157 Perkins St Apt #X, for a report of a past assault, weapons call. Sgt. Marino, and Officer S. Costa responded as back up along with several other units. On scene I was met by the victim identified as Mr. XXXX. XXXX stated that he was assaulted by a man who lived on the first floor of the residence. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Ricardo MONTEJO (ABDW, ADW, Firearm Charges, Home Invasion) →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Thomas E. Hersey on his passing.

Thomas E. Hersey was a wonderful person with many friends in the city where he will be sadly missed. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Thomas E. Hersey →

ELIZABETH’S OBITUARY

Giurleo, Elizabeth (Oppedisano) Of Somerville, passed away Tuesday, January 18, 2022 surrounded by her family at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers. She was 97. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Elizabeth (Oppedisano) Giurleo →

LOUISE’S OBITUARY
LEE, Louise V. (Ricci) – Of Somerville January 19, 2022. Beloved wife of the late Francis J. Lee Sr.
Loving mother of Francis J. Lee Jr., Somerville District Fire Chief and his wife Julianne of Chelmsford. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Louise V. (Ricci) Lee →

At this youth-hosted event, learn more about the 2021 Student Health Survey results via a fun trivia format and participate in discussions about issues impacting youth in Somerville. Join us for this virtual event on Thursday, January 27, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Continue reading January 27 – Student Health Data Trivia Night & Discussion →

The City issued a vaccine requirement for all full-time and part-time benefitted City employees (1,038) last fall. Continue reading City’s Employee Vaccine Mandate Results in Outstanding Compliance →

Local Artwork Inspired by Pandemic Living
The Somerville Arts Council’s prompt From The Inside Out called upon local artists to create art that highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their work. Continue reading “From The Inside Out” Opens Jan. 29 →

After more than a year of continued community engagement, we’ve integrated the feedback we received through workshops and surveys into the Brickbottom Vision Plan Draft available HERE.

Continue reading Help Shape the Brickbottom Vision Plan: Feedback on Draft Plan Sought →

The City of Somerville’s Racial and Social Justice Department has two opportunities for residents to help advance and inform ongoing racial and social justice work in the city. Both are part-time, paid opportunities. Continue reading Racial & Social Justice Office Seeks Members for Youth Justice League & Ambassadors for Reimagining Policing Efforts →

Mayor Ballantyne and the City of Somerville are pleased to announce an affordable homeownership opportunity for a 1-bedroom condo at 375 Canal St. (unit #602) at Assembly Row. This condo is available to income-eligible, first-time homebuyers as part of the City’s Inclusionary Housing Program. Continue reading Affordable Housing Opportunity Available at Assembly Row →

(MEDFORD)—As of January 6, 2022, the City is now in charge of parking operations and enforcement with the cancellation of its contract with vendor Park Medford. With the City back in control, there will be a brief transitional period while the parking department is building its team and updating equipment. Continue reading Medford-City Gives Update on Parking Plan Medford Took Control of Parking Operations in Early January →

By Bob Katzen

QUOTABLE QUOTES – Farewell Edition – Four state representatives are exiting the House to take on new jobs in the federal or state government. Rep. Sheila Harrington (R-Groton) did not respond to several e-mails from Beacon Hill Roll Call asking her to comment on her appointment by Gov. Charlie Baker as clerk magistrate of the Gardner District Court. Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Bill (H 3393)allows cities and towns to increase the current fines of $100 to $300 for drivers who violate handicapped parking violations. The bill would allow communities to assess an additional separate fine of up to $450 in addition to the $100 to $300 one. Continue reading INCREASE FINES FOR HANDICAPPED PARKING VIOLATIONS →

Permits electric-powered autonomous vehicles to be operated on Bay State roadways. Current law does not allow any autonomous vehicles on these roads.

“We have a unique opportunity to ensure that the emerging technologies behind automated vehicles contribute to our efforts to reduce carbon emissions,” said sponsor Rep. Michael Day (D-Stoneham). Continue reading ALLOW SOME AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES ON BAY STATE ROADWAYS (H 3434) – →

Prohibits Condominium Associations, Historic District Commissions and Neighborhood Conservation Districts from banning or unreasonably restricting an owner from installing an electric vehicle charging station to charge their electric vehicle. Continue reading CHARGING STATIONS IN CONDO BUILDINGS (H 3425) – →

ALLOW CITIES AND TOWNS TO The Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy Committee held a virtual hearing on a measure that would allow cities and towns to require all new buildings, building construction projects or major renovation projects to be all-electric. The bill bans on-site fossil fuel infrastructure but does allow for natural gas and propane service if they are integral to the building’s function. Continue reading PROHIBIT FOSSIL FUEL INFRASTRUCTURE (S 1333) – →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would repeal a current law, passed in 1990, which created professional licensure consequences for anyone who defaults on their student loan. Under existing law, the Massachusetts Educational Continue reading DEFAULT ON STUDENT LOANS (H 4339) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 159-0, approved and sent to the Senate a $55 million COVID-19 response bill. A key provision provides $30 million to increase the number of COVID-19 testing sites and purchase COVID-19 tests—with $5 million of that earmarked to expanding vaccination rates among kids ages 5 to 11 in communities disproportionately affected by the virus. Continue reading $55 MILLION FOR COVID-19 →

Thomas I Henderson Jr., originally of East Providence, RI, but more recently a resident of Medford, passed away on Monday January 17, 2022 at home surrounded by family. Tom was the beloved son of the late Thomas I Henderson Sr. and Jean Henderson both of Rhode Island. Tom was happily married to Margaret “Peggy” (Lyons) Henderson for 42 years with whom he raised 3 children with in Medford, MA.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Thomas I Henderson Jr. →

By Friends of Somerville

Covid Mandates and the lingering uncertainty of the City of Somerville Board of Health to enforce them

As members of the Board of Health in Somerville made a decision to reject the vaccination card mandate, via webinar of January 20, 2022, once again the Somerville Mandate Debate within the community rages on. Continue reading Somerville BOH Rejects Mandates →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Mrs. Maria C. (da Rosa) Furtado on her passing.

Maria C. (da Rosa) Furtado was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed here both in Somerville and Medford. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mrs. Maria C. (da Rosa) Furtado →

Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,

Here is a letter sent to city hall:

Dear Mayor Ballantyne:
 
Congratulations on your joyous Mayoral swearing-in ceremony followed by your inspirational inaugural address.
 
I send you this message on behalf of the 300 residents of Cobble Hill Apartments who are hoping, and yes praying, you will terminate the prior Administration’s mistaken plans to put a fire and police headquarters next to the largest elderly development in Somerville.  Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: 90 Washington St. City Plan →

Click on link below to read Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
January 18th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Happy Birthday to a number of Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday to Tammie Pothier Cota, Brehnen Hardy, Maureen Fucile, Jared Venezia, Sandy Courtney Russell, Traci Fenton, Dallas O’Brien, James Gallo, Jim Lovett, Bill Rogers, Michael Freedman, Peter Goodsell, John DiFava, Joseph DiPietro, Luigi Buonopane, Richard Lyons, Kennerh Fournier, Adam Miele, Kristine Foote, Continue reading The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

From COVID Response and Recovery to Affordability for All, from Racial and Social Justice to Transparency, 100-Day Agenda Released

SOMERVILLE, MA – In her inaugural address on Monday, January 3, newly elected Mayor Katjana Ballantyne laid out her vision for an administration that is inclusive and transparent, examines every issue through an equity lens, and strives to ensure progress made in the city positively affects all residents and businesses. She also promised to announce her 100-day work plan, and today she delivers on that promise with the release of the 100 Day Somerville ‘Progress for All’ Agenda. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announces Inclusive, Equity-Focused 100-Day ‘Somerville Progress for All’ Agenda →

By Bob Katzen

“This commission brings together a diverse, experienced and thoughtful group of experts and stakeholders to help our administration develop the policies and strategies we will need to meet the challenges associated with decarbonizing the buildings sector in Massachusetts. Continue reading QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security will hold a virtual hearing on January 26 on a measure that would create an 11-member commission to investigate and report on what measures may be necessary and appropriate to protect the citizens of the commonwealth from the existential threat posed by nuclear weapons and to contribute towards the total elimination of these weapons from all countries. Continue reading ELIMINATE NUCLEAR WEAPONS →

By Bob Katzen

The Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security will hold a virtual hearing on January 26 on legislation that would allow cities and towns to opt to have mental health civilian advocates accompany police and other law enforcement personnel on mental health-related calls to respond to non-violent or behavioral health-related situations. Continue reading POLICE AND MENTAL HEALTH CIVILIAN ADVOCATES →

By Bob Katzen

The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would reduce the frequency at which owners of food trucks must renew their business licenses, from annually to every five years.

Continue reading FOOD TRUCKS Bill (H 4304) →

By Bob Katzen

The Transportation Committee held a virtual hearing on a measure that would amend a current law which prohibits drivers with suspended licenses from getting their license reinstated, after the suspension is over, until they pay off the entire associated fine for the underlying offense. Continue reading SUSPENSION OF DRIVER’S LICENSE →

By Bob Katzen

Some of the $4 billion of the federal funds allocated to Massachusetts from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) have been spoken for. Continue reading HOW SHOULD THE STATE SPEND THE REMAINING $2.3 BILLIONS IN FEDERAL FUNDS ? →

By Bob Katzen

An estimated 1,523 Massachusetts residents who still owe a total of $41 million in student loans received good news last week. Continue reading $41 MILLION IN STUDENT LOANS FORGIVEN →

By Bob Katzen

The Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy approved and sent to the Senate Ways and Means Committee legislation that would expand the state’s existing bottle bill law that requires a 5-cent refundable deposit on glass, plastic, metal, aluminum and bi-metal containers holding beer and other malt beverages, carbonated soft drinks and mineral waters. Continue reading EXPAND THE BOTTLE BILL →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0 approved and sent to the House legislation that would make it easier for homeless youth and adults to secure free state ID cards. The measure would allow homeless service providers or other state agencies to provide the individual with documentation to prove residency.

Continue reading MAKE OBTAINING ID CARDS EASIER FOR HOMELESS PERSONS →

By Bob Katzen
Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would repeal a current law which prohibits adoption of children by family members including older siblings, aunts and uncles. Continue reading MAKE ADOPTION BY FAMILY MEMBERS EASIER (S 2616) →

PCR testing available to residents and workers, regardless of health insurance or immigration status

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne today announced new COVID-19 testing sites in East Somerville to expand access to free tests for Somerville residents and workers. Continue reading Somerville Launches Free COVID Testing Sites in East Somerville →

Meghan M. O’Leary, a 2 year resident of Milford and formerly of Somerville, entered into eternal life suddenly at her home in Milford on Wednesday, January 12, 2022. She was 43 years of age. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Meghan M. O’Leary →

We would like to congratulate our five new Student Officers, Pavel Halauko, Adam Spencer, Talita Ferro, Zachary Pierre and Cameron Fahey.

The five Student Officers were sworn in yesterday afternoon by Mayor Lungo-Koehn and will be starting the Cambridge/Northeastern Police Academy on Monday. Continue reading Five New Student Officers Sworn In By Medford Mayor →

JOSEPH’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
Wright, Joseph A. III—Of Somerville, January 11, 2022.
Beloved son of Mary G. (Eldracher) Wright and her Fiancé Robert Carney and the late Joseph A. Wright Jr. Devoted father of Ashley Rodrigues. Loving brother of Jack Wright and his wife Leslie and the late Nancy Wright. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph A. Wright III March 05, 1964 – January 11, 2022 →

Obituary of Ernest C Pelham

Pelham of Somerville, formerly of Cambridge, January 11, 2022, Ernest C. “Chuck” Pelham, age 90. Son of the late Ernest W. and Mary (Burke) Pelham. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ernest C Pelham →

Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,

Hi Billy

I thought you may want to know of a New Scam preying on the Elderly. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:New Free Government Cellphone Scam Preying On Somerville Seniors →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Nicholas Bombino on his passing.

Nicholas was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed here in both Somerville and Medford. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nicholas Bombino January 08, 2022 →

January 11th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Caulfield, Mary C. (Lucey) of Stoneham, died at home surrounded by her family January 6, 2022. She was 84. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary Caulfield →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Ward 1 Councilor Matthew McLaughlin invite you to a virtual community meeting to discuss roadway upgrades and traffic safety improvements on the eastern portion of Pearl Street, from McGrath Highway to Mount Vernon Street. Continue reading Pearl Street Reconstruction and Safety Improvements Public Meeting, January 19 →

Happy Birthday to a number of Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday to Patrick Tauro, FranCisco Meneses, Rosalia Fodera Lodato, Karen Gallo, Joe Brum, Matt Basteri, Continue reading The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Frank Palmisano. Frank passed away peacefully this Monday morning surrounded by his family. Frank was a wonderful person with a heart of gold and a million dollar personality. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Frank Palmisano →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of George R. Eberlein on his passing.

He was always a big part of Saint Joseph’s Church in Union Square, a great man who helped anyone. He also helped with Pop Warner in his earlier days.

George R. Eberlein was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed here both in Somerville and Medford.

Obituary: Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering George R. Eberlein →

City also Secures $293,000 per Year Grant to Hire Two Additional Social Workers at Police Department

(MEDFORD)—Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn and Medford Police Chief Jack Buckley signed a 5-year contract for $330,000 last week with Motorola Solutions to equip the entire 100-person department with body-worn cameras. Continue reading City of Medford to Equip Police Officers with Body-Worn Cameras →

On Wednesday, January 5, 2022, I, Officer Sergio Costa was working patrol in full-uniform on the West District in cruiser (W-6) during my assigned 12AM-8AM shift. At approximately 1:00 AM, I, was dispatched to 247 Elm St, for a report of man hitting the door of the Burrem with a chair. Officer Jorge Morel (W-7) and Officer J. Brown (W-5) responded as back-up. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Brendan KEEFFE (ABPO, Disorderly, Resisting) →

Deborah Byrne
Relocation Director, Government Certified
Continue reading Congratulations to Deborah Byrne for Who has been awarded for the Highest Sales in Berkshire Hathaway for Month of December! →

Attached you will find our Press Outreach for January.
Please we did not get the grant for the taxi rides so rides will no longer be booked.
Any assistance in helping us get the word out would be much appreciated.
Thanks,

EVENTS

Bingo – Tuesdays at Ralph & Jenny Center starting at 10:00 a.m. and Thursdays at Holland Street starting at 10:00 a.m. Grab and Go lunch available following Bingo. RSVP to Debby Higgins by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email Debby at DHiggins@Somervillema.gov Continue reading Somerville COA Press Outreach for January →

By Bob Katzen

“This study serves to reinforce what we have been saying for years: keeping flavored tobacco products, including menthol flavored cigarettes, off the shelves here in Massachusetts is making a measurable difference in slowing the state’s tobacco epidemic. Continue reading QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Here are three proposals that were the subject of a hearing by the Education Committee last week:

MENTAL HEALTH OF STUDENTS (H 572) – Adds mental health of students to the current list of physical illnesses that qualify as a legitimate reason for a student’s absence from school. Rep. Carol Doherty (D-Taunton) sponsored the legislation that was initiated and backed by the Class of 2021 at Oliver Ames High School in Easton.
Continue reading On Beacon Hill: SEVERAL BILLS HEARD BY THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE: →

By Bob Katzen

Another bill heard by the Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities Committee would require restaurants to make available to customers a photographic or visual menu that contains a written description and a photograph of each food and drink item to assist individuals with communication impairments with ordering. The state would be required to develop a program for restaurants to be designated as “Communication Impairment Friendly” and maintain a listing of restaurants receiving that designation on its website. Continue reading RESTAURANTS MUST MAKE A PICTURE MENU AVAILABLE (H 4027) →

By Bob Katzen

The Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities Committee held a hearing on legislation that would expand the current law that allows most family members, except spouses, to serve as a paid caregiver for relatives with disabilities who are eligible for nursing home care under MassHealth—the state’s Medicaid program that provides health care for low-income and disabled persons. The bill would allow a spouse to be a paid caregiver. Continue reading ALLOW SPOUSE TO BE A PAID CAREGIVER →

By Bob Katzen

The House 157-0, Senate 40-0, approved and Gov. Baker signed into law on April 1, 2022 a bill that supporters said will stabilize the state’s unemployment system and provide targeted tax relief to employers and workers. Continue reading HELP BUSINESSES AND WORKERS →

By Bob Katzen

The House 160-0, Senate 40-0, approved and Governor Baker signed into law a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. The $350 million package, a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds, also includes $150 million to pay for bus lanes, improvement of public transit, electric vehicles and other state transportation projects. Continue reading ROADS AND BRIDGES →

By Bob Katzen

The House 160-0, Senate 40-0, approved and Gov. Charlie Baker on July 16, 2021 signed into law, after vetoing several items, a $48.1 billion fiscal 2022 state budget for the fiscal year that that began on July 1.

The budget was based on new estimates that tax collections in fiscal year 2022 will increase by more than $4.2 billion above the amount originally predicted by the governor, the House and the Senate. In light of the pandemic, elected officials had for months braced themselves for a substantial decrease in tax revenues and a cut in some programs and/or even a tax increase. Continue reading $48.1 BILLION FISCAL 2022 BUDGET →

PAONE, Paul F. Age 90, of Lexington, formerly of Somerville, entered into rest on January 3, 2022. Born and raised in Somerville by Italian immigrant parents, Salvatore Cosmo Paone and Maria (Dinitto) Paone, Paul learned the value of hard work from an early age. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Paul F. Paone of Roma Bakery →

OBITUARY
Pitts III, Clifford F.– Of Somerville, January 5, 2022. Beloved son of the late Clifford F. Pitts II and Margaret “Peggy” (Frampton) Hayes. Devoted brother of Stephen Pitts, Mary Leslie, Christopher Kent and Ronald Kent. Loving uncle of 5 nieces and nephews. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Clifford F. Pitts III May 17, 1950 – January 05, 2022 →

MOVE CARS FROM CITY LOTS BY 7 p.m.

Property owners must shovel sidewalks by 1:30 p.m., Saturday

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville’s snow emergency will end Friday, January 7, at 5 p.m., and normal parking rules will resume at that time. Vehicles can be parked on the even side of the street starting at 5 p.m. Continue reading SOMERVILLE SNOW EMERGENCY ENDS FRIDAY, JANUARY 7, AT 5 p.m. →

Congratulations to Lt. Vincent Distefano and Sgt David Buono who worked their last tours of duty today. Both Lt. Distefano and Sgt. Buono came on together 35 years ago and it is bittersweet that they both finish out their outstanding careers on the same day. Continue reading Congratulations to Medford PD’s Lt. Vincent Distefano and Sgt David Buono on Their Retirements →

Mail and package volume accepted into network increased year over year
Operational improvements and strategic investments under 10-year plan boosted daily processing capacity by 13 million packages
Preparations helped mitigate delays even as volumes surged to 2.8 billion the week after Thanksgiving Continue reading USPS Accepted More Than 13.2 Billion Mailpieces and Packages this Holiday Season with an Average Delivery Time of Less Than 3 Days →

MARGARET’S OBITUARY
Margaret “Peggy” Malone, a life long resident of Somerville, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2022 at the age of 82.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Margaret L. Malone August 22, 1939 – January 05, 2022 →

Nina Nazarian Assumes Permanent Chief of Staff Role in Lungo-Koehn Administration

(MEDFORD) — Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn officially named Nina Nazarian as her Chief of Staff on December 27. Nazarian had been serving on an interim basis since September 13, when she took over for departing Chief of Staff David Rodrigues. The City posted the Chief of Staff job listing on December 2. Continue reading Medford Mayor Removes Interim Tag from Current Chief of Staff’s Title →

LORRAINE’S OBITUARY
ROACHE, Lorraine L. (Flores) – Of Somerville January 4, 2022. Beloved wife of the late James F. Roache. Loving mother of James A. Roache of Somerville, Kevin T. Roache and his wife Christina of Marshfield, Lorraine Roache of Somerville, the late Mark and Maureen Roache. Sister of the late Marilyn Hanifin. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lorraine L. Roache August 05, 1925 – January 04, 2022 →

OBITUARY
ROGOVICH, Daniel J. – Of Winthrop formerly of East Somerville, January 4, 2022. Beloved Son of the late Edward Rogovich and Barbara Poirier. Loving father of Michelle Shanahan and her husband David of Haverhill, Richard Brown of Seabrook, NH, Daneille Rogovich and her partner Derek Major of Winthrop, Carlos Valente and the late Shawn Clark. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel J. Rogovich May 31, 1953 – January 04, 2022 →

Move vehicles by 11:30 p.m. Thursday to odd-numbered side of street (unless otherwise posted) to avoid ticketing and towing
Parking is also allowed in municipal lots (but not in school lots)
Trash/Recycling pickup on normal schedule, no delays
Schools, Libraries, and all activities closed and canceled Friday Continue reading Somerville Declares Snow Emergency Effective Thursday, January 6, at 7:30 p.m. →

Parking restrictions in effect as of 2am Friday

MEDFORD – The City of Medford is declaring a snow emergency to go into effect at 2 a.m. on Friday morning. As staff works throughout the early morning and into the day prepping and removing snow from the roadways, please be patient as many departments, including the Department of Public Works, are experiencing staffing issues due to the spread of the Omicron variant. The City is working diligently to ensure that this storm is dealt with swiftly and efficiently. Continue reading CITY OF MEDFORD DECLARES SNOW EMERGENCY FOR FRIDAY, JANUARY 7 AT 2 AM →

4 Lincoln Street East Somerville
(617)718-0830

Haircuts * Shaves * Hot Towel Shaves

9:00am to 8:30pm Monday to Friday & 9:00am to 6:00pm Weekends Continue reading Hair-Gineer of Somerville →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Robert “Bobby” Addison on his passing.

Bobby was an amazing person who will be sadly missed in East Cambridge and beyond by the multitude of friends that he made along his journey! Continue reading Somerville/Medford/East Cambridge Remembering Robert “Bobby” Addison →

Hello residents of Somerville and Happy New Year. I am speaking to you, as I have for the past two years, from a remote location due to the Covid-19 pandemic. While we continue to combat this crisis, there are many things to be grateful for in the new year. Continue reading Matt McLaughlin City Councilor, Ward 1 2022 inauguration address →

Outdoor Associates is a professional landscaping company that has been serving residential and commercial properties in the regional area with over 40 years of combined experience. Continue reading Outdoor Associates Landscape Contractors →

Happy Birthday to a number of Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday to Johnny Caruso, Sharon McGrath, Jillian Gomes, Mattie Moe, Randy Leavitt, Ellie Carucci, Arthur Souza, Wilma MacElree, Carla Consolmagno-Hopkinson, Continue reading The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

By Bob Katzen

QUOTABLE QUOTES

“Body-worn camera programs also provide law enforcement agencies with an important tool to improve training and advance best practices. This grant program and the resulting implementation of advanced technology will improve safety for police and communities across the commonwealth,”
—Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy announcing that the Baker administration awarded more than $4 million in state grant funds to 64 municipalities across the state to provide departments with resources to start or expand Body-Worn Camera programs. Continue reading QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The Revenue Committee will hold a virtual hearing on January 12 on several bills including:

EXEMPT PERSONS UNDER 18 FROM PAYING INCOME TAX (S 1970) – Exempts residents and non-residents under 18 from paying an income tax. Continue reading REVENUE COMMITTEE VIRTUAL HEARING ON JANUARY 12th →

By Bob Katzen- The House gave initial approval to a measure that would allow members of the Massachusetts Coalition of Police to be paid when attending executive board meetings of their group without having to use accrued time off for their absence. Continue reading MASSACHUSETTS COALITION OF POLICE →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would amend current law which imposes up to a 7-year prison sentence and/or $5,000 fine for a first offense of animal cruelty and a 10-year prison sentence and/or $10,000 fine for a second offense. Continue reading RAISE FINES FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY →

By Bob Katzen

Effective January 1, the state’s minimum wage rose from $13.50 per hour to $14.25 per hour. This hike is the fourth of five annual increases mandated by a law passed in 2018 that will eventually bring the minimum wage to $15 per hour in 2023. Continue reading MINIMUM WAGE HIKE FROM $13.50 TO $14.25 PER HOUR EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1 →

By Bob Katzen
Here is how your representative fared in his or her support of Baker on the vetoes.

The percentage next to the representative’s name represents the percentage of times that he or she supported Baker. The number in parentheses represents the actual number of times the representative supported Baker. Continue reading NUMBER OF TIMES REPRESENTATIVES SUPPORTED GOV. BAKER’S VETOES IN 2021 →

Additional Meetings with Other Applicants Set for January

(MEDFORD)—Last month, the City’s Cannabis Advisory Commission presented Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn with a final ranking of the nine applicants seeking to establish retail businesses in Medford. Continue reading Medford-City in Negotiations with Potential Marijuana Dispensary on Community Host Agreement →

SOMERVILLE – After conducting a thorough vetting process, Mayor-elect Katjana Ballantyne has announced today two key executive staff selections, new administrative support, and a team of three Senior Transition Advisors. Continue reading Mayor-Elect Ballantyne Announces Executive Staff Nikki Spencer & Aneesh Sahni Selected for Key Roles →

Public Assistance Sought as Anniversary of 2019 Murder of Paul Wilson Approaches

CAMBRIDGE – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Acting Cambridge Police Commissioner Christine Elow are requesting assistance from the public as the anniversary of the January 2, 2019 murder of Paul Wilson approaches.
Continue reading Public Assistance Sought as Anniversary of 2019 Murder of Paul Wilson Approaches →

BEVERLY’S OBITUARY
RICHARDSON, Beverly A. – Of Stoneham formerly of Medford and Somerville, passsed away December 29, 2021. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Beverly A. Richardson December 06, 1941 – December 29, 2021 →

SOMERVILLE – Somerville has been recognized as a global leader in climate action by environmental-impact nonprofit CDP. Somerville is one of 95 cities to make the 2021 CDP Cities A List, scoring top marks for its ambitious, transparent work to address climate change. Continue reading Somerville Recognized as One of 95 Global Climate-Action Leaders on CDP 2021 A List →

BOSTON – In an audit released today, the Office of State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump (OSA) found the Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA) has not updated its consumer healthcare information website, CompareCare, as required by Massachusetts General Laws. Continue reading Audit Identifies Need for Center for Health Information and Analysis to Update its Publicly Accessible Information →