Click on link below to read May 31st, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online May 31st, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Joseph, Guy J. – Of Somerville, formerly of Plaisance, Haiti passed away peacefully on Saturday May 28, 2022 at Tufts Medical Center. He was 76. Continue reading Guy J. Joseph →

By Bob Katzen

The Baker administration announced the launch of the Massachusetts Data Hub, a new data search tool that allows users to search state resources and data by topic and keyword and to browse featured data published by state government.
Continue reading LAUNCH OF MASSACHUSETTS DATA HUB →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that makes it a criminal offense when a medical or healthcare professional induces a patient to engage in sexual intercourse or touching by falsely representing that the act is necessary for a legitimate medical purpose. The measure adds sections to the existing rape and indecent assault and battery statutes to criminalize behavior by medical professionals where there has been a fraudulent representation of the necessity and propriety of conduct and adds these crimes to the law on the statute of limitations for other sexual assaults. Continue reading SEXUAL ASSAULT UNDER FALSE MEDICAL REPRESENTATION →

By Bob Katzen
The Senate approved an amendment clearing the name of Elizabeth Johnson who in 1693 was the last person convicted of witchcraft, at the height of the Salem Witch Trials. Johnson was sentenced to death by hanging but was never executed. The state approved legislation in the 1900s that cleared the names of those who were executed and had not been exonerated, but that excluded Johnson. She never had children so there has never been a group of descendants pushing for exoneration. Continue reading CLEARING NAME OF “NON-WITCH” ELIZABETH JOHNSON →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Baker a bill that would require the state to develop and implement a Women’s Rights History Trail Program. The measure includes requiring the state to designate properties and sites that are historically and thematically associated with the struggle for women’s rights and women’s suffrage.
Continue reading CREATING WOMEN’S RIGHTS HISTORY TRAIL PROGRAM →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment increasing by $500,000 (from $1,033,019 to $1,533,019) funding for the “Citizenship for New Americans Program” to assist eligible low-income legal permanent residents of the Bay State to become citizens of the United States. They said that this program leads to high rates of success on the naturalization exam. Continue reading NEW AMERICANS →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved an amendment requiring that LGBTQ service members who were forced out of the military with anything other than an honorable discharge under the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell'” policy that barred openly gay, lesbian or bisexual persons from military service from 1994 to 2011, be eligible for state benefits from the Massachusetts Department of Veterans Services. Continue reading DON’T ASK, DON’T TELL →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 38-0, approved an amendment providing an additional $750,000 to fund “Hey Sam”—an anonymous peer-to-peer mental health texting program staffed by young people. The service, available to people up to 24 years old, gives youths the opportunity to reach peers if they are suicidal, lonely, depressed, overwhelmed, struggling or need any kind of support an domeone with whom they can talk. Continue reading ADDITIONAL $750,000 FOR GOOD SAMARITANS →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 10-30, rejected a tax reduction amendment that would provide a 3-month suspension of the 24-cent -per-gallon gas tax; reduce from 12 percent to 5 percent the short-term capital gains tax rate; double the dependent care tax credit from $240 to $480 for one qualifying individual and to $960 for two or more individuals; increase the rental deduction cap from $3,000 to $5,000; increase the threshold for “no tax status” to $12,400 for single filers and $24,800 for joint filers; and double the maximum Senior Circuit Breaker Credit. Continue reading TAX CUTS →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved a $49.78 billion fiscal 2023 state budget after adding nearly 500 amendments and $93 million in spending during three days of debate. The House has already approved a different version and a House-Senate conference committee will eventually craft a plan that will be presented to the House and Senate for consideration and sent to the governor. Continue reading $49.78 BILLION FISCAL 2023 STATE BUDGET →

By Bob Katzen

The House 154-0, approved and sent to the Senate a proposal that would prohibit the posting of sexually explicit images of another person online without their permission— commonly referred to as “revenge porn.” The practice is often used by ex-spouses or ex-partners. Massachusetts is one of only two states that does not have a law about this crime. Continue reading REVENGE PORN (H 4498) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 118-36, Senate 32-8, approved and Gov. Charlie Baker vetoed a conference committee version of legislation that would, starting July 1, 2023, allow undocumented/illegal immigrants to apply for a Massachusetts standard driver’s license. The House and Senate had approved different versions of the measure and this compromise was reached by a conference committee comprised of three senators and three representatives. The wide margin of passage by both branches means that each branch has the necessary two-thirds vote to override Baker’s veto. Continue reading BAKER VETOES ALLOWING DRIVER’S LICENSE FOR UNDOCUMENTED/ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS(H 4805) →

PRIDE Month in Medford kicks off June 2nd with flag raising at City Hall.

Month-long events series to include “Dinner, Drinks, & Drag,” an outdoor dance/skate/mingle party, youth story time and teen Zine workshop, PRIDE celebration & more. Continue reading Medford to Celebrate PRIDE with Events Throughout June →

Freeman, Elaine P. “Honey” (Malaney) – Of Somerville, passed away on May 28, 2022. She was 82.
Born and raised in Somerville to the late Cornelius F. and Susan N. (Grady) Malaney. She was the beloved mother of Laura Patterson and her husband Robert of Methuen, Stephen Freeman of NJ, Elaine Colangeli and her husband William of Westford and the late Lawrence Freeman. She as the devoted grandmother of 11 grandchildren and two late grandchildren and also a loving great-grandmother. The dear sister of the late Anne Joyce, Thomas and Neil Malaney. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Elaine P. “Honey” Freeman →

Luauna (Sisson) Demont, of Somerville, passed away at the Mass General Hospital in Boston surrounded by her family on May 26, 2022, she was 68. Born and raised in Somerville she was the daughter of the late Lorraine (Brown) and William B. Sisson, Jr. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Luauna (Sisson) Demont →

Learn about all open positions with the City of Somerville. Here are some of the newest opportunities: Continue reading Open Positions with the City of Somerville →

MassDOT will host a virtual meeting on Thursday, June 2, at 6:30 p.m. to provide updates on the proposed signal and intersection improvements at McGrath Highway (Route 28)/Mystic Avenue (Route 38). Continue reading Somerville Public Information Meeting: McGrath Highway/Mystic Ave. Project – June 2 →

An MBTA bus leaves a station at night with MBTA logo and Better Bus Network logo
The City is hosting a virtual information session and public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 water and sewer rates on Tuesday, June 7. The information session will start at 6 p.m. and the public hearing will start at 6:30 p.m.
Continue reading Somerville-Water & Sewer Rates Public Hearing →

An MBTA bus leaves a station at night with MBTA logo and Better Bus Network logo
Have you seen a new street tree in your neighborhood? Consider joining the Adopt-A-Tree program to help it get settled in Somerville. Name it, water it, love it, and even receive an adoption certificate. Continue reading Somerville-Help Care for Young and Newly Planted Trees →

As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, this is an opportunity to remind residents that the City’s Human Services Division is available to provide a variety of supportive services, as well as resources and referrals for a range of needs. Continue reading Get Connected to Mental Health Services & More →

Join the City of Somerville and Fenway Health for a virtual community forum to discuss a local supervised consumption site (SCS) on Wednesday, June 1, at 6 p.m. This forum will discuss what SCSs are, what the need is in Somerville, and ongoing efforts to explore establishing an SCS locally. This is an opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and share feedback. Continue reading Supervised Consumption Site Community Forum →

Open Positions: Four
Term: Three years
The Somerville Commission for Women (SCW) seeks four new members, and all women who live in Somerville are invited to apply. Boards and commissions offer an opportunity for residents with a range of experience, skills, expertise, and perspectives to share their talents and insights with their community. Continue reading Somerville Commission for Women Seeks Four Members →

Open Positions: Four
Term: Three years
The City of Somerville seeks four new members for the Human Rights Commission (HRC), and all Somerville residents are invited to apply. Boards and commissions offer an opportunity for residents with a range of experience, skills, expertise, and perspectives to share their talents and insights with their community.
Continue reading Somerville Human Rights Commission Seeks Four Members →

On Wednesday, May 18, 2022, at 11:29 PM, Somerville Police control received a 9-1-1 call from a male identified as XXXX (Victim), reporting a male pulled a knife on him outside XXX Broadway. The victim told the 9-1-1 operator that the male had left the area and went towards Stop & Shop on McGrath Hwy. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Assault w/ Dangerous Weapon) →

The City of Somerville will hold a virtual information session and public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 water and sewer rates on Tuesday, June 7. The information session will start at 6 p.m. and the public hearing will begin promptly at 6:30 p.m. Anyone who would like to testify is welcome to attend and will be heard. Additional Q&A time will be offered following the hearing if attendees have remaining topics of discussion. Continue reading Somerville-Information Session and Public Hearing on FY2023 Water and Sewer Rates, June 7 →

Last week the Medford Lions Club kicked off Spring with a 3rd recipient at MHS Scholarship Award Night, Isabella Sasso, who will attend Wentworth in Electrical Engineering. The award was presented by Lions VP Sharon Deyeso who higlighted community charity and change in Education now seeking completion by the USA.

Continue reading MEDFORD LIONS ROAR ON! →

BOSTON– After a historic vote in the House of Representatives in February and state Senate in early May, the Work and Family Mobility Act was just voted for final passage in the House and Senate. The bill, filed by Representative Christine Barber of Somerville and Medford, with Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier and Senators Brendan Crighton and Adam Gomez, enables all state residents to apply for a standard Massachusetts driver’s license regardless of immigration status. Continue reading Rep. Barber’s Driver’s License Bill Passes in House & Senate →

Margaret Klessens, a World War II Army veteran and resident of Somerville, Massachusetts was chosen as the Chief Marshal of the Bunker Hill Day Parade 2022. Margaret is currently a member of the American Legion, the DAV, and the Charlestown School Girls Association. Continue reading Longtime Somerville Resident Chosen as the Chief Marshal of the Bunker Hill Day Parade 2022 →

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

Can you ask the City where the American flag is outside of the brand new Somerville High School ?

It’s actually a law … Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Where’s The New High School American Flag? →

Somerville’s OPENAIR Circus will offer its 39th year of summer classes in circus skills beginning June 27, running through August 7. This year in-person classes will be at Lou Ann David Park on Broadway near Teele Square, in 55 minute time slots Tuesday through Thursday from 4:30-7:30.
Continue reading Somerville OPENAIR Circus classes return! →

This letter is addressed to Mr. Billy Tauro
I am writing you to express my disgust since the recent fight on highland Ave where one of our children
was shot with a bb gun. You should officially lead a investigate into this call and find out why the
police chief don’t have police in our schools. I have a life long bond with Somerville and know a lot of
what goes on behind the scenes about the politics in the city. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: The City of Somerville In Jeopardy →

Mr. Billy Tauro
I am hoping you investigate or send this issue to the appropriate agency. I voted for you last time and hope you run again.
Why do Ward Councilors William Burley and Charlotte Kelly have a vote for approving the police budget when they are directly affiliated and founders or co-founders of the Defund Police Organization? Continue reading Letter to the Editor: Conflicts of Interest & Corruption In Somerville →

Mark Stern

About three years ago a young woman from Japan, living away from her friends and family in the USA while studying as an undergraduate at U. Mass. Boston, walked by my family’s yard from her apartment two houses down the street. She stopped to say hello over the fence to my two dogs (a Siberian Husky named, “Isis, I Had The Name Before They Did, Have No Goddesses Before Me” and a Golden Retriever named “Roxanne”) who were hanging out and playing in the yard. Continue reading Sayonara: A Covid Story →

Celebrate Pride in Somerville this June at the City’s annual flag raising and Big Gay Dance Party.

First, please join Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Public School Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) on Wednesday, June 1, at 3 p.m. to raise the Pride flag in honor of LGBTQ+ Pride Month and LGBTQ+ Youth Pride. The ceremony will take place on the City Hall concourse, 93 Highland Avenue. Continue reading Celebrate Pride with Somerville’s Annual Flag Raising & Big Gay Dance Party →

The City’s Adopt-A-Tree program has officially launched. Newly planted trees can be found around Somerville, and now they need your help. Look for the colorful “Adopt Me!” tags and scan the QR code or visit tinyurl.com/somervilletree to find a tree in your neighborhood and go through the steps to adopt it. Continue reading Somerville Adopt-A-Tree Program →

MEDFORD – Today at approximately 12:30 a.m. a National Grid employee, who was working at a worksite on Salem Street, was electrocuted and later died. The incident was reported by a Medford Police officer who was assigned to work the detail at the site. Continue reading Statement on Fatal Electrocution in Medford →

On Monday, May 23, Somerville Police responded to 101 Highland Avenue for a report of a fight. When police arrived they were informed that two juvenile males were on the sidewalk after dismissal of nearby Somerville High School when they were approached by a group of other juveniles. Continue reading Somerville Police Investigating BB Gun Shooting Incident →

Join us and East Somerville Main Streets on Sunday, June 5th, 2-6pm (rain date June 12) on Broadway between Kensington and Pennsylvania Ave. Can’t wait to see you there! 🎉

Check out some of our vendors and activities! RSVP to our event page for updates✨ https://fb.me/e/2f26p9zyw Continue reading Kicking off the SomerStreets season with CARNAVAL! →

Join us Saturday, June 11th, (Rain date June 18) at Union Square Plaza.

Join us for a free, outdoor dance party for all LGBTQ+ individuals and allies! Come celebrate Pride month in Somerville. Continue reading Somerville’s Big Gay Dance Party 2022 →

“Angel Primrose” went missing on 05/23/22 in the area of Columbus Ave. Continue reading Somerville-MISSING CAT! →

Be prepared and stay informed about overdose prevention. Somerville Prevention, Somerville Police Department’s Community Outreach, Help & Recovery (COHR) team, the Somerville Homeless Coalition and Fenway Health will host two distribution events today, Tuesday, May 24, & Tuesday, May 31, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Statue Park in Davis Square. Resources include Narcan, fentanyl test strips, and face shields for rescue breathing. Overdose prevention training will also be available at both events. Continue reading Be prepared and stay informed about overdose prevention →

Click on link below to read May 24th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online May 24th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Medford Chief of Police Jack Buckley have confirmed an ongoing investigation into the death of Barbara Novaes, 61 of Medford who was located in an enclosed area outside her home on Emery Street on Monday morning.
Continue reading Investigation into Death of Medford Woman Underway →

Open Letter to Mayor Ballantyne and Somerville City Council:

I write to ask if you would kindly reconsider your support to build a PSB at 90 Washington Street and instead find a more suitable land parcel next door to your home, or your place of employment or your house of worship. Please accept my apologies as it seems like everyone in your Planning Department thinks this is such a great idea. The Cobble Hill residents do not.
Continue reading Letter to the Editor: Open Letter to Mayor Ballantyne and Somerville City Council →

By City of Somerville

Conway Park reopens this Friday! After five years of remediation and renovation, Conway is back with major recreational and environmental improvements, like a new athletic field and splash pad, 64 new native trees, better drainage, and much more. Join us May 27 at 11 a.m. for a ribbon cutting to celebrate. Continue reading Conway Park Reopens Friday After Five Years →

PHILLION, Margaret M. (Collins) – Of Brockton formerly of Somerville, May 20, 2022.
Beloved wife of Francis Phillion. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Margaret M. Phillion →

The City of Somerville and Fenway Health invite you to a virtual community forum to discuss a local supervised consumption site (SCS) on Wednesday, June 1, at 6 p.m. This forum will discuss what SCSs are, what the need is in Somerville, and ongoing efforts to explore establishing an SCS. This is an opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and share feedback.
Continue reading Somerville-Supervised Consumption Site Virtual Forum, June 1 →

By Joe Viglione

Musician Greg Paquette introduced me to disc jockey Lou Spinnazola’s show on Camup. The program, the Spin Room, is moving to Mixclound beginning Monday, May 30, 2022. This interview conducted Sunday 5/22/22.

The Spin Room now on Mixcloud starting Monday May 30, 2022.
JV: Lou, how long have you been in radio?
Continue reading A Talk with DJ Lou Spinnazola of The Spin Room Hotline to the Underground Interviews Lou Spin! →

SOMERVILLE, Mass. – The City of Somerville Police Department and the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office will partner to host the Somerville gun buyback initiative Saturday, June18, 2022 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Somerville Department of Public Works Yard located at 1 Franey Road. The regional initiative includes several communities in the Middlesex county over the past couple of years. The focus is on providing residents with a safe and secure way of removing unwanted firearms from their homes. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Somerville Will Participate in Regional Gun Buy Back Initiative 2022 →

The SPD tries to embody the community it serves by staffing a diverse group of officers who combined share many years of police experience. Continue reading Somerville Police Department News Updates →

Michael V. Hogan, a lifelong Somerville resident, passed away suddenly on May 11, 2022, he was 47.
Born in Somerville he was the cherished son of of Judith Hogan-White and Robert W White of Nashua, NH.
He was the father of Jarrod Hogan and Kiley Hogan and the late Cayden Michael Hogan Grace and step father of Katelyn and Casey Delaney who he loved very much. Nephew of Debbie Hogan Vicente and Joe Vicente. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Michael V. Hogan →

By Arthur Moore

This is incredible. No Memorial day parade due to covid. We had porchfest with covid and about to have an East Somerville part with covid. So, what gives with our elected officials and these ridiculous decisions. Continue reading Somerville Showing Their Lack of Respect for Our Veterans →

By Bob Katzen

“As Massachusetts motorists are on the verge of paying six dollars a gallon for gasoline, Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka should reconsider their thoughts that suspending the state gas tax is a gimmick. Instead, they should address suspending the gas tax and cutting other taxes to help middle class Massachusetts taxpayers keep more of their hard-earned money.”
— Paul Craney, spokesman for the Mass Fiscal Alliance Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The Baker Administration announced that 300,000 low-income workers will each receive $500 under the second round of the COVID-19 Essential Employee Premium Pay Program that was part of the American Rescue Plan Act approved by the Legislature in December 2021. The administration was given the power and flexibility to implement the program and announced last week that these round two checks will be mailed out soon.
Continue reading $500 PAYMENTS TO 330,000 ELIGIBLE LOW-INCOME WORKERS →

By Bob Katzen

Stuck in the Bills in Third Reading Committee since approved by the House on Dec. 30, 2021, is a bill that would amend current law that 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

The Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government held a virtual hearing on legislation that would allow cities, towns and water or wastewater districts to impose “reasonable” fees that would be used only to remedy/offset impacts that water withdrawals and discharges have on the natural environment. Continue reading ALLOW CITIES AND TOWN TO IMPOSE WATER FEES →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-0, approved and sent to the Senate a $5 billion bill that borrows money for hundreds of projects—the majority involving maintenance and modernization projects of buildings—many of which are decades old. The House added $125 million during consideration of the package. A key provision imposes a five-year moratorium on any prison or jail construction in Massachusetts.

Continue reading BORROW $5 BILLION FOR STATE PROJECTS →

By Bob Katzen

The House 29-126, rejected an amendment that would require that a public hearing be held prior to the signing of an agreement between a host city or town and a marijuana business. Continue reading PUBLIC MEETING BEFORE LICENSING (H 4791) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-0, approved a bill that makes changes in the cannabis industry including a section that would require the state to put its tax and licensing revenue from the sales of marijuana revenue into a newly created Social Equity Trust Fund to provide grants and loans, including forgivable and no-interest loans, designed to assist entrepreneurs and businesses from communities disproportionately harmed by the decades of marijuana prohibition. Continue reading MARIJUANA LAWS (H 4791) →

An MBTA bus leaves a station at night with MBTA logo and Better Bus Network logo
The MBTA has been working on a Bus Network Redesign to improve service for the people who depend on it most. They are proposing some major changes to reimagine bus service and more equitably serve the region. This week, they published a draft of what the new network could look like. Continue reading MBTA Proposes Bus Network Changes →

The orange Conway Park building with white lettering
After years of remediation and renovation, Conway Park (550 Somerville Ave.) will open in its entirety on Friday, May 27. Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Ward 2 Councilor J.T. Scott will mark the occasion with a ribbon cutting that morning at 11 a.m. Continue reading Somerville-Conway Park Reopens May 27 →

SomerStreets: Carnaval returns to East Somerville with free activities and entertainment on Sunday, June 5, from 2 to 6 p.m. (rain date: June 12). Enjoy an opening parade, interactive games and activities, an artisan market, live music on three stages, and food from many of your favorite neighborhood restaurants. Head to Broadway between McGrath and Pennsylvania Ave. to join the fun. Continue reading SomerStreets: Carnaval Returns to East Somerville →

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the Boston metro region this Saturday and Sunday, May 21 and 22, and community members are urged to take precautions. High temperatures and significant humidity are expected both days. Continue reading Stay Safe in the Heat This Weekend →

Open Positions: Five
Term: Three years
The City of Somerville seeks five members for the Mayor’s Appointments Advisory Committee (AAC), and all Somerville residents are invited to apply. Continue reading Somerville Appointments Advisory Committee Seeks New Members →

Run Medford — McGillivray Gives Back to Medford
Inaugural Run Medford Road Race set for Sunday, September 18, 2022

Medford, MA (May 18, 2022) – Former Medford, MA, resident Dave McGillivray, race director of the Boston Marathon and president/founder of DMSE Sports, will be coming back to his roots to celebrate and memorialize his connection to his hometown. Continue reading New Partnership: Run Medford — McGillivray Gives Back to Medford →

LIVE IN PERSON networking, free appetizers, business card drawing & cash bar in a fun, relaxed environment that is one of Somerville’s leading Dining & Nightlife destinations!
Continue reading Somerville Chamber of Commerce After Hours: American Flatbread →

Dear Community, Students, Parents, and Guardians,

On Friday, youth in our City rallied for peace including calling for safety from gun violence and the impacts of racism in all of its forms. It was an act of both frustration and hope, of both concern and determination organized by youth involved with the nonprofit Teen Empowerment. Many of us went, and we were impressed and moved.
Continue reading SOMERVILLE OPEN LETTER: Joint Message and Resources Following Shooting in Buffalo, NY →

This Memorial Day, the City of Somerville will host a ceremony of remembrance to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while in service to our country. Continue reading Somerville Memorial Day Ceremony Set for May 30 →

Ceremony Will Be Recorded and Aired on Medford Community Media

Volunteers Sought for Placing Flags at Veterans’ Gravesites

Medford’s traditional Memorial Day Ceremony at Oak Grove Cemetery will be held on May 30th.
Continue reading Memorial Day Ceremonies Planned in Medford →

The City of Medford is currently accepting applications from Medford residents to serve on one of many City Boards & Commissions.

Residents who are interested in serving on any of the boards and commissions below should complete the Board and Commission Interest Form available at http://www.medfordma.org/boards. Completed forms should be submitted via email to, Continue reading Medford-CITY BOARDS & COMMISSIONS SEEKING RESIDENTS TO FILL VACANCIES →

Open Positions: Two
Term: Five years
The Somerville Housing Authority (SHA) Board of Commissioners seeks two new members, and all Somerville residents are invited to apply. These positions do not have to be filled by SHA residents, but SHA residents are encouraged to apply. Continue reading Somerville Housing Authority Board of Commissioners Seeks Two Members →

Mary Ellen (Moriarty) Ward, of Somerville, formerly of Kenmare,Co. Kerry, Ireland, age 91, passed away peacefully surrounded by love and family on May 19, 2022. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary Ellen (Moriarty) Ward →

NEW RELEASE, June 2022:

The new novel by Timothy Gager, Joe the Salamander

“Gager both invokes psychological insight and mocks its blindness. He imagines an autistic child’s coming of age, both through and out side the child’s eyes. From infancy, Joe “thinks” articulately, but rarely speaks, and his understanding of the world of Not Me is wry and sensitive, somewhat like Faulkner’s Benjy’s. Continue reading The new novel by Timothy Gager, Joe the Salamander →

Ok here’s the best one yet!

Someone asks if there will be a parade – No Covid 19 precautions.

Same city right ???? Continue reading Letter from the Editor: “No Memorial Day Parade” WELCOME TO THE NEW SOMERVILLE →

On Memorial Day, the City will host its annual ceremony of remembrance to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while in service to our country. Continue reading Somerville Memorial Day Annual Ceremony of Remembrance →

Brianna’s Cafe 393 medford st Somerville MA 02145 open 6am to 3pm Continue reading Grand Opening of Brianna’s Cafe in Somerville →

Get your tickets today. It’s going to be a great show with a fabulous homemade Italian dinner! Continue reading Joey Chiarenza’s Tribute to Frank Sinatra →

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

Last week a family member of a Somerville High School called the school and asked the school if they can give their daughter a ride home because they had a family emergency. The school had a police officer pick up the daughter at Somerville High to give the daughter a ride home after requested by the girl’s family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: What Has Somerville Become as a Society? →

Obituary

Bryan Frederick Caruso

Bryan F. Caruso, 42, a resident of Pembroke for the past 7 years, passed away suddenly on Monday, May 16, 2022 at Concord Hospital in Concord. He was born on October 9, 1979 in Laconia, the son of Frederick A. Jr. and Cheri M. (Shepard) Caruso. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bryan Frederick Caruso →

Advertise in the Somerville/Medford News Weekly for Only $25 Week (617)293-2016 and Get Noticed!
“Somerville’s Most Widely Read Newspaper!” Continue reading Advertise in the Somerville/Medford News Weekly for Only $25 Week (617)293-2016 →

Photos by Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn‘s Facebook site

Medford firefighter promotions! Deputy Tom Brennan, Lieutenant Michael Richard, Lieutenant Christopher J. Jenke and Captain Vincent A. Marcellino, III. Thank you all for your continued service and dedication to the people of Medford! Continue reading Medford Firefighter Promotions →

Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Here is a letter sent to the mayor concerning 90 Washington St. City Plan

Dear Ms. Spencer:

Thank you for forwarding Mayor Ballantyne’s invitation to meet with the Cobble Hill residents on May 25 at 10:00 AM. I will encourage all Cobble Hill residents to attend. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: 90 Washington St. City Plan →

Click on link below to read May 17th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
May 17th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1) (1) 2

River City Construction | Home Remodeling Services (704)241-2043

Remodeling * Siding * Painting * Decks * Additions and More! Continue reading River City Construction | Home Remodeling Services (704)241-2043 →

The following is a summary of the details related to this incident.

On Sunday, May 15, 2022, I, Officer David Ruf, was in full-uniform and assigned to marked cruiser East-1, for the Somerville Police Department. At approximately 12:16 A.M., Officer P. Canty (East-4) and I were dispatched to the area of Artisan Way and Grand Union Blvd for a drunk male. It should be noted that Officers Pasqualino and Lorenti (Sector East) dealt with this same party a short time earlier (#22026794) Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (A&B Public Employee, Disorderly, Deface Property, Assault, Resisting Arrest) →

Security / Conciencia Personal Needed For All
Shifts In Medford Area Contact Number 781-953-8358

EVENTS

Bingo – Tuesdays at Ralph & Jenny Center starting at 10:00 a.m. and Thursdays at Holland Street starting at 10:00 a.m. 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 & Organizational Outreach for 5-10-2022 →

The Somerville Planning Board seeks one full member and one alternate member, and all Somerville residents are invited to apply. A background in architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, urban planning, and/or land-use law is beneficial but not required. Applicants should be interested in job creation, affordable housing development, and open space and multimodal transportation strategies. Continue reading Somerville Planning Board Seeks Two Members ​ →

The City of Somerville, Somerville Community Corporation (SCC), Boynton Yards, and USQ are hosting a job and resource fair to connect residents with local employers and opportunities. Continue reading Somerville Job & Resource Fair, May 26 →

Open Positions: One alternate
Term: Four years
The City of Somerville Urban Design Commission (UDC) seeks one new alternate member, and all Somerville residents are invited to apply. A background or interest in urban design, community planning, landscape design, or architecture is beneficial but not required. Continue reading Somerville Urban Design Commission Seeks One Member →

The City’s Taxi to Health program is back, offering no-cost cab rides to local food and health care services. Those who need can sign up for free trips to grocery stores, food pantries, farmers markets, and pharmacies in Somerville, as well as to non-emergency medical appointments in Somerville, Arlington, Boston, Cambridge, Everett, and Medford. Continue reading Sign Up for Free Rides to Food or Health Care →

Join the Union Square Community Design Team at a pop-up event to share design ideas for Union Square’s public spaces. The Community Design Team is a diverse group of residents that has been leading a research and engagement process for the ongoing Union Square Plaza and Streetscape Redesign Project. Continue reading Shape Union Square’s Future at a Plaza Pop-Up →

By Bob Katzen

“We have … more support in the Statehouse in both bodies than we’ve ever had before, and I can tell you as someone who works in other states as well, we have the most support in any Legislature that we’ve ever seen across the country. We really feel like now is the time and this is the session to do it.” Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

A proposal that would provide civil liability protections to individuals, restaurants and organizations that make direct food donations to persons in need received a favorable report from the Judiciary Committee back on February 28, 2021 but has been languishing in the House Ways and Means Committee since that time. Continue reading DONATE FOOD →

By Bob Katzen

A proposal that would establish a statewide Adopt-A-Senior volunteer program to assist seniors with snow removal and property or home maintenance services received a favorable report from the Elder Affairs Committee back on December 20, 2021 but has been languishing in the Senate Ways and Means Committee since that time. Provisions include creation of a registry of volunteers to match and place volunteers with seniors within their community. Continue reading ADOPT-A-SENIOR →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House a bill that would require research labs to take reasonable steps to offer healthy animals up for adoption rather than euthanizing them when the research is done. According to supporters, more than 60,000 dogs and nearly 20,000 cats are used for animal experimentation in the US. Continue reading ADOPT ANIMALS USED IN RESEARCH →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 14-26, rejected an amendment to a section of the bill that would legalize sports betting in the Bay State. A section of the bill establishes the application process when applying for a license to operate sports betting. Continue reading DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION (S 2844) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 6-149, rejected an amendment that would repeal a current law that prohibits doctors from storing and dispensing some prescription medications directly to a patient. Continue reading LIFT BAN ON DOCTORS DISPENSING RXs →

Photo:Scott Foster


A Letter by Butch Foster:

 
Hello everyone!  

I hope you are all healthy and doing well.  It is that time of year again when Team Scott rides for our orphan disease MSUD in his memory.  I again will be joined by my brother-in-law Steve Healy and my grand turismo friend Billy Goodwin.
The orphan disease center at the University of Pennsylvania medical center will again be matching the first $30,000 the MSUD Family Support Group raises to fund a research project for a cure for MSUD. Continue reading SOMERVILLE-A LETTER BY BUTCH FOSTER:2022 MILLION DOLLAR BIKE RIDE FOR MSUD – JUNE 11, 2022 →

Medford Sons of Italy  
42 Alfred Street
Medford/Somerville line.
Now Open !!
Sports Bar, Keno  Darts, Corn Hole , and Billiard tables. Accepting new and old memberships.
Phone 781-874-9577 Continue reading Medford Sons of Italy Now Open! →

Obituary Lee J. Devereaux:

May 26, 1962 – May 8, 2022

Lee J. Devereaux of Saugus passed away suddenly on May 8, 2022, at age 59. Lee was raised in Somerville, graduated Somerville Trade High School ’81, and worked for 33 years at Mass DOT as a Highway Maintenance Supervisor. He is survived by his beloved family, Rosemarie (Brandano), Janelle, and Brianna. Devoted son of the late Raymond and Evangeline Devereaux and son-in-law of the late Albert and Rosemarie Brandano. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lee J. Devereaux →

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

Robert “Bobby” K. Ribeiro was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed here both in Somerville and Cambridge.

Obituary: Continue reading Somerville/Cambridge Remembering Robert “Bobby” K. Ribeiro →

City offering grant funding to businesses interested in making upgrades to public facing portions of storefront
Up to 15 matching grants of up to $5,000 to be awarded to local small businesses in 2022
Continue reading Medford Launching Business Façade Improvement Grant Program →

VFW Post #1012 of Medford invites all local Veteran’s and friends of the post to our Memorial Day Barbecue to honor our fallen. Burgers, hot dogs and more. Continue reading Medford VFW Memorial Day BBQ →

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

Is it just me or is something strange about the Thursday May 19th Showcase of Learning at the Winter Hill School where “all are invited and where vaccines and masks are strongly recommended?” Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: They Are Brainwashing and Bribing Our Children Into Getting Vacinated →

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

HI Billy

I’m not sure if you are aware of the violence at SHS but multiple concerned parents are reaching out and want answers. They are hoping you can help by shedding some light on the truth.

SHS has minimal security. Multiple fights happen daily leading to many students and teachers being afraid to attend school. Police are not allowed to assist in schools because certain parents and THE school committee are blocking it. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: violence at SHS but multiple concerned parents are reaching out and want answers →

*************UPDATE*****************
Richardson has been found and is safe. TY to everyone who helped share this post.
***************************************
MISSING PERSON – Richardson Frederic, a 15 year old, approximately 5’4″,140lbs, is missing out of Somerville, MA. Continue reading Somerville Police-MISSING PERSON →

On Monday, May 9, during school dismissal, Somerville Police responded to a call from a relative for a family matter requiring a response to the entrance to Somerville High School.
Continue reading Somerville Police Update: Somerville High School incident →

Election Coordinator will hold a four-workshop series for Medford voters to learn about voter registration, census, and other elections-related processes. Continue reading Medford-City Hosting Voter Education Workshop Series in May →

Congratulations to Somerville Officers Mark McLaughlin, Priscilla Ribeiro, Christopher Fusco, Courtney Reece, Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories:Officers Recognized →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Valdemar “Val” Coelho on his passing.

Valdemar “Val” Coelho was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed here in both Somerville and Cambridge. Continue reading Somerville/Cambridge Remembering Valdemar “Val” Coelho →

KENNETH’S OBITUARY

U.S. Veteran
Manzi, Kenneth D. of Methuen, formerly of Somerville passed away at the age of 66 on Sunday, May 8th, 2022 Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kenneth D. Manzi →

Click on link below to read May 10th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Dennis D. DiPietro, Jr. on his passing.

Dennis D. DiPietro, Jr. was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed here in both Somerville and Cambridge.

Obituary: Continue reading Somerville/Cambridge Remembering Dennis D. DiPietro Jr. →

Vito Vaccaro of Somerville, quietly passed away on April 29, 2022, he was 98. Born in Boston, he was the son of Annie (Palmieri) and Filippo Vaccaro. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Vito Vaccaro →

The following is a summary of the details related to this incident.

On Tuesday, May 3, 2022, I, Officer David Ruf, was in full-uniform and assigned to marked cruiser East-1, for the Somerville Police Department. At approximately 2:32 A.M., Officer N. Moreira (East-4) and I were dispatched to XX Minnesota Ave for a person breaking into motor vehicles. Officer P. Canty (East-3) also responded as backup. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (B&E MV, Attempt to Commit Crime) →

By William Tauro

Over twenty years ago, around the time that a wheelchair bound young girl was brutally raped at Foss Park by members of MS13 gang members, the Massachusetts Legislature passed a gang ordinance at the request of Somerville elected officials (Real Elected Officials that truly cared about Somerville Residents at the time) and here we are now twenty years later our current state representatives along with the support of the new mayor and city Council are here to repeal it. Continue reading Letter from the Editor:Don’t Let Our Local Elected Officials Repeal the Provisions of Chapter 327 of the Acts of 2004-An Act Relative to Public Safty in the City of Somerville →

By Bob Katzen

“People living in environmental justice communities, including those in my district, are disproportionately exposed to toxins, and face an increased risk of asthma due to unjust housing policies, proximity to transportation emission hotspots and lack of good infrastructure.”
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate Committee on Labor and Workforce Development has recommended that a proposal that would require all state agencies and institutions to submit job listings on a state-wide computerized referral system, be shipped off to a study committee. Continue reading MUST POST STATE JOB OPENINGS →

By Bob Katzen

Back on January 18, 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. Continue reading DEFAULT ON STUDENT LOANS →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would double fines for motor vehicles speeding in the far-right lane, or “breakdown” lane in areas where travel in that lane is permitted during peak commuting hours.
Continue reading USE OF BREAKDOWN LANE →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would allow cities and towns with a local option to require the installation of an automatic sprinkler system in every newly-constructed 1- or 2-family home. Continue reading REQUIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS →

By Bob Katzen

On the heels of April tax revenue coming in more than $2 billion ahead of the amount expected, the push for tax relief was the buzz on Beacon Hill last week. Continue reading ARE THERE TAX CUTS IN YOUR FUTURE? →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 7-31, rejected an amendment to a section of the bill that requires the applicant to attest, under the pains and penalties of perjury, that their license to operate has not been suspended or revoked in another state or country. The amendment would also require the applicant to attest that he or she will not use his or her license for the purpose of registering to vote, voting or for identification. Continue reading PROMISE NOT TO USE LICENSE TO REGISTER TO VOTE OR FOR ID →