Monday, June 26, 2023

U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Massachusetts
BOSTON – A former DePuy Synthes sales representative and team lead was arrested today for allegedly defrauding a Boston area hospital and lied to federal authorities investigating his interference with the hospital’s sterilization processes. Continue reading Winchester Man and Former Medical Device Sales Rep Arrested for Defrauding Boston Hospital and Lying to Federal Authorities →

FRED’S
John “Fred” O’Meara, 83 of Reading, MA formerly of Belmont, MA passed away on June 27, 2023.
He was born in Somerville to the late John O’Meara and Alice (Engle). Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John “Fred” O’Meara →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville Prevention, a division of the City of Somerville’s Health and Human Services Department (HHS), are announcing four Narcan Distribution Events happening in Somerville throughout the month of July. The City is partnering with the nonprofit Repair the World to host these potentially life-saving events. Continue reading Somerville Prevention Partnering with Repair the World to Host Multiple Narcan Distribution Events in July →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD), in partnership with 300 Somerville Avenue Realty, LLC and Lacourt Realty, LLC, are pleased to announce an income-restricted rental opportunity of two (2) 2-bedroom apartments. Continue reading City of Somerville Announcing Two Income-Restricted Apartment Rental Opportunities at 300 Somerville Avenue and 124 College Avenue →

More than 35 Community Groups Receiving Funds from the City’s American Rescue Plan Act Funds

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne announces the award of $10 million by the City of Somerville to more than 35 local nonprofit groups to help strengthen and grow their organization and programming. The $10 million distribution is part of the City’s investment of its federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation to support community organizations. Continue reading City of Somerville Awards $10 Million to Local Nonprofit Organizations →

Continue reading ACE PAVING LLC 1-800-893-6880/603-432-9174 →

Residential Breaking & Entering

23034950: On 6/22/23 at approximately 8:24 PM, Somerville Police responded to a residence on Calvin St for report of a past breaking and entering. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated she observed a male party near the door of her bedroom. The suspect then fled out the rear door of the residence. Nothing was reported stolen.

Assault Continue reading Somerville Police Department Crime Log 6/20/2023 – 6/26/2023 →

By Karen Glover

We always have a total blast every Wed. Nite,
5-8 pm. Soooo much fun…omg. I mean, really, really fun, every second! Face painting, which the kids love… amazing characature artist, animals made from balloons, ice cream, dancing, Jeff Lyons, our incredible so-much-fun DJ. I was having way too much fun, lol, I can’t even remember the last name of this one-in-a-million entertainer, Joey…?…I’ll post his last name later. Continue reading The Legendary Annual Clarendon Hill Towers Wednesday Nite Summer Music Series Kicked off Wednesday Nite! →

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

Hello Mr Tauro…

I just left my Union Meeting (I work for Cambridge Health Alliance) and wanted to let you know that union nurses at Cambridge, Everett and Somerville Hospitals will be out picketing on Wednesday July 12th. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Nurses at Cambridge, Everett and Somerville Hospitals will be out picketing on Wednesday July 12th →

By William Tauro

The Somerville Police Department’s police officers have filed grievance with the Mayor claiming they are being forced to drive unsafe high mileage vehicles. The police cars are operated 24/7 to respond to emergencies and have high mileage. Continue reading Police Officers File Grievance Against Somerville Mayor →

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

Billy this city is laughable look at this street. It’s not even 2 o’clock school is out yet there’s a shit show everywhere. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville is a Horror Show →

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

I remember as a student in 1977 attending the Somerville Technical Trade School auto shop that was located on Otis Street in Somerville. I remember I learned a lot there in that school especially memories that I will cherish forever. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Does Anyone Know if the Old Somerville Tech Trade School Was Ever Professionally Decontaminated Before We Allow Them to Carelessly Place Our Winter Hill Students in There? →

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

This is all that you see in Somerville on just about every street in this city. They’re ripping up the streets with no police detail .. rocks flying .. nobody keeping an eye on foot traffic .. bike lanes and cars .. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:We Have Had Enough In the Past Two Years With This Invisible Mayor →

Click on link below to read June 27th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
June 27th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

By William Tauro

I was asked this question online:

Poster:clars10 •

So – between now and your last run for mayor and your severe dedication to the city, can you please list what you have been actively involved in to improve Somerville?

My response was: Continue reading I was asked this question online: →

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

Hey Billy… noticed a guy outside my window putting a hole in the telephone pole. I asked what he was doing since the liquid he was putting in was going all over the ground. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Nobody Is Being Warned of Hazardous Pesticides to Pets →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne invites the Somerville community to kick back and enjoy free outdoor movies this summer. The City of Somerville’s annual SomerMovieFest returns this year with a series of seven family-friendly films being shown in parks around Somerville.
Continue reading SomerMovieFest 2023: Somerville Community Invited to Enjoy Free Outdoor Film Screenings →

By Bob Katzen

Special “Who’s Looking At What Edition.” According to the Legislature’s website, here are some of the top bills that visitors to the site are searching. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Rep. Brandy Fluker Oakley (D-Boston) has proposed a late-filed bill that would create a commission to study and develop proposals for lineage-based reparations programs to redress the harm resulting from the institution of slavery in the state, systemic racism against enslaved people and their descendants; and the lasting effects of slavery and institutional and systemic racism in the Bay State. Continue reading SLAVERY REPARATIONS (H 3921) →

By Bob Katzen

The Elections Laws Committee’s hearing also included a proposal that would permit cities and towns to allow non-citizens over age 18 to vote in local municipal elections. The elections in which non-citizens could vote include an election for mayor, school committee, city council, town council, select board, a school committee referendum and a local ballot referendum.
Continue reading ALLOW NON-CITIZENS TO VOTE (H 671) →

By Bob Katzen

A bill heard by the Election Laws Committee would allow cities and towns to permit people aged 16- and 17-year to vote in their local city and town elections and presidential primaries. Current law requires that voters be 18.
Continue reading ALLOW 16- AND 17-YEAR-OLD YOUTHS TO VOTE IN LOCAL ELECTIONS (H 3576) →

By Bob Katzen

The Economic Development and Emerging Technologies Committee held a hearing on legislation that would establish a special commission to study the financial relationship between Massachusetts businesses and Chinese state-owned companies. Continue reading CHINESE-OWNED COMPANIES IN MASSACHUSETTS (H 413) →

By Bob Katzen

The Committee on Public Health held a hearing on proposals that would standardize the date labels on food products sold in the Bay State by establishing two kinds of date labels to mitigate widespread consumer confusion and reduce food waste. Continue reading FOOD LABELS (H 2205/S 1390) →

By Bob Katzen

The Economic Development and Emerging Technologies Committee held a hearing on legislation that would create a $500,000 pilot program offering competitive grants to Massachusetts residents who are starting new businesses. Continue reading FUNDING FOR MASSACHUSETTS-BASED RESIDENTS’ STARTUP COMPANIES (S 237) →

By William Tauro

It’s a very sad day in Somerville when we have to close the Somerville Boxing Club (SBC). This club kept the kids off the streets and kept them engaged in not just boxing, but a multitude of sports activities that kept these kids on a straight, narrow path since the opening of the club in 1978 by a group of boxers and enthusiasts eager to promote the sport and introduce local youth to the many benefits of training and competition. Continue reading Letter from the Editor:City of Somerville Closes Somerville Boxing Club →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment providing $1 million for the awarding of grants for the development and operation of freestanding birth centers. Priority for funding would be given to birth centers that serve communities historically impacted most by racial inequities in maternal health including high rates of maternal and infant mortality. Continue reading $1 MILLION FOR BIRTH CENTERS (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

$750,000 FOR REGIONAL LIBRARIES (S 3)
Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would increase by $750,000 (from $15,967,600 to $16,717,600) funding for regional libraries. Continue reading THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local senators’ votes on roll calls from the recent debate on the Senate’s version of a $55.9 billion fiscal 2024 state budget →

Teamsters Local 25 distributes $60,000 in scholarships to local students as part of annual scholarship program.

Chloe Randazzo, of Medford, is one of 30 students that was recognized with a $2,000 scholarship as part of the Teamsters Local 25 Memorial Scholarship Awards. The students are children or grandchildren of Local 25 members and retirees planning to attend college in the fall.
Continue reading Chloe Randazzo, of Medford, Awarded Teamsters Local 25 Scholarship →

WILLIAM’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran

William J. Mahoney (formerly of Arlington) passed away on June 17, 2023 in Cape Coral Florida. He was 89 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William J. Mahoney →

MARGARET’S OBITUARY

Tano, Margaret (Badu)- Of Bronx, New York, passed away suddenly on May 3, 2023. She was 53. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Margaret Tano →

By Arthur Moore

How many times as kids growing up in Somerville did our mother’s say look both ways before crossing the street. Continue reading Look Both Ways Before Crossing Street →

DOROTHY’S OBITUARY:

Dorothy J. (DiMarzo) Montalto, of Somerville, passed away on June 19, 2023, she was 87. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dorothy Jean Montalto →

Event hosted by Pathways for Immigrant Workers and the City of Somerville, will be held on July 13, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Connexion, 149 Broadway

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville and Pathways for Immigrant Workers will host a free immigration legal information session for small employers and lower-wage workers on Wednesday, July 13, 2023, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Connexion located at 149 Broadway. Continue reading Somerville Workers and Small Employers Invited to Attend Employment-Based Residency Information Session →

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

FUNDING THE POLICE PETITION FIASCO
Collecting names for a Petition on any issue is certainly an arduous task. It requires much time, energy, patience and ability to condense knowledgeable particulars of an issue into short, impactful verbal sentences. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: FUNDING THE POLICE PETITION FIASCO →

PATRICK’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
KEANE, Patrick F. – Of Medford June 23, 2023. Beloved husband of Mary (Kelly) Keane. Complete notice to follow. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patrick F. Keane →

WILLIAM’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
Wilson, William V. –Of Somerville, passed away at home on June 21, 2023. He was 88. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William V. Wilson →

Get ready for summer fun at the City and Somerville Arts Council’s Fourth of July celebration. Enjoy live music, food, and of course, a big, bold fireworks display. Head to Trum Field on Thursday, June 29, at 6 p.m. (rain date June 30). Learn more at Continue reading City and Somerville Arts Council’s Fourth of July celebration →

By William Tauro

Early Wednesday morning a car accident occurred at Saint Ann’s Church that’s located at 399 Medford Street in Somerville. Continue reading Car Crashes Into Saint Ann’s Church Fence →

By William Tauro

What a circus show this will be in September. Edgerly Center zero parking plus East Somerville School across the street. It’s unfortunate for the past eight years or more that there has been no scheduled preventive maintenance done to this Winter Hill school to prevent something like this from happening. Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Updates on Plans and Current Work at Winter Hill school →

From Karen Glover

Wow…I really had my eyes opened wide today.
I’m constantly intrigued by the array of lackadaisical answers, non-answers, incorrect answers, half-correct answers, or just plain ridiculous answers doled out to me on a regular basis.
As you know, I, along with countless others, are concerned with the deep/wide pothole craters/cracks/bumpy/lumpy/unlevel terrain located at The MBTA/ Clarendon Hill Bus Terminal. Continue reading Letter to the Editor: SOMERVILLE: “MAYOR” KATJANA BALLANTYNE’S PROGRESSIVE VERSION OF THE ASPHALT JUNGLE! →

Click on link below to read June 20th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 20th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading June 20th 2023 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Happy 1st Birthday RJ Menard. He is the son of Rodney & Samantha (Florentino) Menard, nephew of Tim & Ashley Florentino AND grandson of one VERY PROUD Grams Kathy Florentino!! Continue reading Happy 1st Birthday RJ Menard from Billy Tauro and all your friends at the Somerville/Medford News Weekly! 🎂 →

By William Tauro

In this week’s Lawyers Weekly. What a joke the city looks like. AND where is the additional $26,528,000.00 million coming from?

City undervalues parcel taken for new public safety building Continue reading Jury Trial Orders Mayor, City of Somerville to Pay $35.3 Million Lawsuit over Eminent Domain Taking at Cobble Hill →

By William Tauro

On the new Somerville MA Political Discussion Page I was asked a series of questions, and I would like to share my replies! And I strongly suggest that you check out this Somerville MA Political Discussion Page where they let you speak the truth, produce facts and voice your opinions without being censored nor blocked! 

Poster ask question:

William Tauro thank you. As a voter I’m tired of punch lists that generalize a host of goals. It’s what every candidate does. What of the 24 items you have listed are your top 5 priorities and how do you plan on accomplishing them?
Everything proposed costs money. We already know residents are taxed every which way. Do your plans include tax increases to execute? If not, what parts of the current city budget will be reallocated to achieve your goals?

My response to his last question: Continue reading Tauro Asked: What of the 24 items you have listed are your top 5 priorities and how do you plan on accomplishing them? →

By Bob Katzen

“Recently, multiple news articles, op-eds, and think tank reports have asserted that Massachusetts is suffering an exodus of households, particularly high-income households, fleeing to states with lower taxes. A closely related claim is that outmigrants are taking billions of dollars out of the Massachusetts economy when they leave. These claims about income migration are both overblown and based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the available data.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would impose up to a five-year prison sentence and/or $10,000 fine on anyone who discharges an assault weapon, firearm, large capacity weapon, machine gun, rifle, sawed-off shotgun or shotgun into a dwelling. Under current law this crime is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a 30-day jail sentence and/or $100 fine.
Continue reading SHOOTING AT A HOUSE OR APARTMENT (H 1681) →

By Bob Katzen

The Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities Committee held a hearing on legislation that would provide financial assistance to some human service workers to repay their student loans. Under the program, human service workers who work 12 consecutive months for a minimum of 35 hours per week and who have an individual income of no more than $50,000 can qualify for loan repayment of up to $150 per month for up to 48 months. Continue reading LOAN REPAYMENT ASSISTANCE FOR HUMAN SERVICE WORKERS (H 214) →

By Bob Katzen

The Elder Affairs Committee held a hearing on a measure that would impose an additional $2,500 fine on anyone who is convicted of perpetrating a financial or other fraud against a person if the person is a senior or disabled individual. Continue reading FINANCIAL SCAMS AGAINST SENIORS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (H 613) →

By Bob Katzen

The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would allow for the sale of alcohol on Thanksgiving. Continue reading ALLOW ALCOHOL SALES ON THANKSGIVING (H 353) →

By Bob Katzen

The Emergency Preparedness and Management Committee held a hearing on legislation that would prohibit the state, cities and towns from requiring proof of vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of entry to any public buildings including state and local government buildings, all public and private schools and colleges and private businesses. Continue reading PROHIBIT REQUIRING PROOF OF COVID-19 VACCINATION (H 734) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate set Saturday, August 12 and Sunday, August 13 as this year’s Sales Tax Holiday. This will allow consumers to buy most products that cost under $2,500 on those two days without paying the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax. This annual sales-tax-free weekend was made permanent in 2018 and gives the Legislature the authority to set the dates by June 15 each year.
Continue reading SALES TAX HOLIDAY ON AUGUST 12 AND 13 →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 5-33, rejected an amendment that would increase from $1 million to $5 million the amount of money that is exempt from the value of a person’s estate from the state’s estate/death tax that a person is required to pay following their death before distribution to any beneficiary. The increase to $5 million would be implemented over ten years. Continue reading INCREASE ESTATE/DEATH TAX EXEMPTION (S 2397) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 5-32, rejected an amendment that would reduce the short-term capital gains tax from 12 percent to 5 percent. Continue reading REDUCE SHORT TERM CAPITAL GAINS TAX (S 2397) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 33-5, approved an amendment that would require Massachusetts couples who file income tax returns jointly at the federal level do the same at the state level.
Continue reading FILE TAXES JOINTLY (S 2387) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 9-30, rejected an amendment to a section of the bill that funds the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP). The amendment would require that HDIP projects must make 25 percent of their units affordable.
Continue reading 25 PERCENT MUST BE AFFORDABLE HOUSING (S 2397) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved a package that provides $590 million in tax relief. The House has already approved its own tax reduction package and a House-Senate conference committee will hammer out a compromise version.
Continue reading SENATE APPROVES $590 MILLION TAX REDUCTION PACKAGE (S 2397) →

Adopted in January, the new building energy code has stricter requirements for energy efficiency and all-electric construction

Virtual information session for property owners on June 14 Continue reading New Specialized Energy Code Takes Effect July 1 in Somerville →

Partnership with CAAS will deliver 500 unlimited MBTA passes to residents not served by other transit benefit programs

Pilot program is the latest of several transit equity initiatives Somerville has undertaken this year, fully funding more than 4,000 passes for residents, students, families, and workers
Continue reading Somerville Issues Free Transit Passes to Low-Income Residents →

SCAM ALERT

BBB in Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT —

Moving this summer? Watch out for a new twist on fake rental ads. According to multiple BBB Scam Tracker reports, scammers use fake tenant credit checks to trick potential renters into compromising sensitive personal information.

How the scam works Continue reading BBB Scam Alert: How to spot a credit check scam when apartment shopping →

Jones, Lawrence G. “Larry”—Of Somerville, passed away after a lengthy illness surrounded by his family and friends on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. He was 63 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lawrence G. “Larry” Jones →

Why wasn’t CW TV actor Grant Gustin in the Flash movie? It will probably haunt Warner Brothers as this is actually the best DC/Warner Brothers superhero film of everything they’ve tried, including Aquaman and Wonder Woman. Continue reading THE FLASH REVIEW BY JOE VIGLIONE →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville will host a Fourth of July fireworks celebration at Trum Field on Thursday, June 29 (rain date: Friday, June 30).
Continue reading Somerville’s Annual Fireworks Display Planned for June 29 →

By Arthur Moore

Heath Street was closed down today. And no parking on it. And that with the parking lost due to the Broadway Winter Hill failure there were many places lost to park in. Continue reading Parking Tickets cha ching in Winter Hill Today →

EDWARD’S OBITUARY

U.S. Veteran
Edward W. Robillard, 92, a lifelong Somerville resident, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Edward W. Robillard →

 
SOMERVILLE_On Sunday, June 11th, members of the Kiwanis Club of Somerville participated in the East Somerville Main Streets, Carnival celebration. Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Club Bike Safety Day Distributes Bike Helmets to Children →

Annarita Petrosillo-McNeeley, of Everett and formerly of Somerville, passed away suddenly at home on June 14, 2023, she was 53. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Annarita Petrosillo-McNeeley →

Remembering my son, Brian Christopher Long

This Father’s Day weekend, please take a moment to remember – Never underestimate what we can learn from our children.

Rest in Peace, Brian. We all love you.

Brian Christopher Long, 51, of Boston and Provincetown, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, at Massachusetts General Hospital after a lifelong courageous battle with Cystic Fibrosis.
Brian was raised in Tewksbury, by his mother Pierrette Long, along with his father Robert ‘Bob’ Long and Brian’s loving step-mother, Muriel Long. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Brian Christopher Long →

Bridget Anne “Bridie” (Mulkerrin) Naughton
July 30, 1953 — June 13, 2023
Dorchester
Of Dorchester, formerly of Callowfeenish, Carna, Co. Galway, Ireland, died June 13, 2023.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bridget Anne “Bridie” (Mulkerrin) Naughton →

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

I have many families from MHS, along with teachers and students on my Facebook page so I wanted to make sure you all saw this email that was sent out by Paul D. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Let the boys in blue deal with REAL criminals! →

MARGARET’S OBITUARY

Margaret F. (Breen) Benson, a longtime resident of Somerville passed away on Sunday, June 11, 2023, she was 92. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Margaret F. Benson →

These are the deplorable living conditions that our Somerville Firefighters have to live in on a daily basis at the Teele Square Fire Station! Continue reading Deplorable Living Conditions at Somerville Fire Department →

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

Now the older kids near the high school are shooting birds with bee bee guns near the YMCA. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Birds Being Shot on Highland Avenue With Bee Bee Guns →

Last night’s Budget Hearing ran for over 4 hours, here is my comment in case you didn’t catch it.

The Winter Hill building is a mark of shame on us all. How long will we continue to bear this shame? Over a year ago the City Council invited Somerville Educators Union – SEU members to testify about the state of the building. In response Mayor Katjana Ballantyne added a study to the budget. I am not sure what we need to study. The list of issues with the building goes on and on and on and on and it is beyond clear to anyone paying attention that the next step is to build a new building. Continue reading Rami Bridge’s Message From Last Week’s Somerville Budget Hearing: →

Robbery

23030330: On 6/1/23 at approximately 11:17 AM, Somerville Police responded to CVS in Davis Sq for report of an armed robbery. Upon arrival, officers spoke with an employee who stated a male party entered the store wearing a Halloween mask then brandished a firearm and demanded money. Shortly after, officers received a report of a robbery in progress at Chipotle nearby. Officers responded and located a male party who matched the description of the suspect in the CVS robbery. He attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended. Officers recovered a fake gun and two knives from his backpack. He was placed under arrest.
Continue reading How safe do you feel in Somerville? Your thoughts? Somerville People Department Crime Log →

Click on link below to read June 13th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 13th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading June 13th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

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

A bear was spotted wandering around Arlington. Residents received an IMMEDIATE Robo Call which immediately alerted the residents to take proper safety precautions… Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Immediate Emergency Response Warnings a Must →

By Bob Katzen

“As a community, we must ensure our young people are working in safe and healthy environments. Whether it be for a summer job or year-round, younger workers – particularly those in low-income, immigrant communities and communities of color – are vulnerable to poorer working conditions and exploitation.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would establish drug repository program which would allow people to donate their unused medications, excluding controlled substances, and permit them to be redistributed to individuals who need them and cannot afford them.
Continue reading ALLOW SOME UNUSED DRUGS TO BE DONATED (H 1208) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would prohibit insurance companies from discriminating against a customer based on gender identity.
Continue reading PROHIBIT DISCRIMINATION AGAINST GENDER IDENTITY OF INDIVIDUALS IN INSURANCE POLICIES (H 1089) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would set a cap on the fees check-cashing stores and outlets are allowed to charge. Continue reading LIMIT FEE FOR CASHING CHECKS (H 344) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would allow businesses to qualify for a tax credit of up to $150,000 if they provide onsite day care for their employees. The tax credit would be equal to 25 percent of the costs of providing the day care.
Continue reading TAX CREDIT TO BUSINESSES THAT OFFER DAY CARE (H 2779) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would exclude from consumer credit reports information about medical debt arising from the receipt of health care services.
Continue reading EXCLUDE MEDICAL DEBT FROM CREDIT REPORTS (H 284) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an increase of $1 million (from $11.8 to $12.8 million) for elder nutrition programs including Meals on Wheels.
Continue reading $1 MILLION FOR ELDER NUTRITION (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would fund $1,526,000 for Court-Appointed Special Advocates, (CASAs) which are specially trained volunteers who represent the best interests of foster children in legal proceedings.

Continue reading ADVOCATES FOR FOSTER CHILDREN (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved a $250,000 increase (from $1,036,958 to $1,286,958) for organizations that provide programs to assist legal permanent residents of Massachusetts in becoming citizens of the United States. Continue reading HELP IMMIGRANTS TO APPLY FOR U.S. CITIZENSHIP (S 3) →

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

Below is my letter to the Somerville City Council

Dear Council Members,
 
Thank you for your service to the community and for  hearing the various concerns of Somerville residents. Currently we understand the budget is being reviewed.  As residents our top priority issue is the proposed defunding of the police. Two police programs have been attacked. First, the neighborhood bicycle police defunded in a previous year; secondly, the proposed defunding of the COHR PROGRAM.  Continue reading Letter to the Editor:City Councilors Defunding the Police →

If Found Report to 911, Do Not Handle

SOMERVILLE—On Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at approximately 1:18 PM, the Somerville Police Department responded to the area of Edward Leathers Park and the Somerville High School for a report of two males armed with firearms. Continue reading Somerville Police Firearm Safety Warning Possible Firearm Sought Near Somerville High School →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division are pleased to announce that applications are now open for 41 income-restricted rental units at Arris (20 Inner Belt Rd. & 56 Roland St.) in the Inner Belt/Brickbottom neighborhood, available through the City of Somerville’s Inclusionary Housing Program. Continue reading Applications Open for 41 Income-Restricted Rental Units at Arris →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division, in partnership with 395 ABP LLC, are pleased to announce an income-restricted homeownership lottery for four affordable condominium units at The Parkway 395 (395 Alewife Brook Parkway).
Continue reading Four Affordable Homeownership Opportunities: 395 Alewife Brook Parkway →

JOHN’S OBITUARY

John S. Beattie passed away suddenly at his Somerville home on June 6, 2023, he was 64. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John S. Beattie →

Albert L. Libardoni, (86) a longtime resident of Arlington, passed away on Sunday, June 4, 2023 at Mount Auburn Hospital. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Albert L. Libardoni →

Long-Awaited Community Path Extension Will Open June 10

Somerville Collaborating with MBTA to Install Additional Lighting

Path Will Temporarily Remain Closed Between School Street and Gilman Square Green Line Entrance to Accommodate Somerville High School Reavis Field Construction Continue reading City of Somerville Sharing Community Path Extension Opening Details →

MARJORIE’S OBITUARY
Fraser, Marjorie C- Of Methuen, formerly of Malden and Somerville passed away at home on Saturday, June 10th. She was 75. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Majorie C. Fraser →

SOMERVILLE – Kickstart your summer and join the City of Somerville Parks and Recreation Department for the annual Family Fun Day event on Saturday, June 24 (no rain date – event will be cancelled for inclement weather), from 1-4 p.m. at Trum Field (541 Broadway). Continue reading Join Somerville Family Fun Day on Saturday, June 24 →

Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly,

Presently, The City of Somerville is besieged by highly-organized groups, large in numbers, who are extremely opinionated, send out hundreds of e-mails, in unison, to the city council, many other officials and also unify to appear in person to drown out and bully others who hold different points of view. Continue reading Letter to the Editor: POLICE FUNDING AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT →

Somerville Firefighter John Gullage was presented with a citation at the City Council meeting on June 8, 2023. Continue reading Commendation Somerville Firefighter John Gullage →

On Friday, June 2, 2023 three new Somerville Firefighters graduated from the MA Firefighting Academy in Stow. Continue reading New Somerville Firefighters →

SOMERVILLE_ Earlier this week the Kiwanis Club of Somerville held it’s annual Legion of Honor luncheon at the Mount Vernon Restaurant. The Legion of Honor recognizes Kiwanis members after 25 years of continuous membership and service and again every five years thereafter. Today’s meeting honored four outstanding members for their dedication and service to the Kiwanis Club and the Somerville community. Continue reading Kiwanis Club of Somerville Legion of Honor luncheon →

By William Tauro
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What’s in a name? Assembly Square in Somerville was named for the 52-acre Ford assembly plant that used to operate in the area. The factory closed in 1958, but the name still sticks, as the vicinity transformed into the new now “Assembly Row” shopping complex, apartments, and MBTA station!
Continue reading Where Is Our Old Assembly Square Ford Plant Watertower? →

Monday, June 12, the RSJ Department is hosting a Juneteenth flag-raising ceremony. Continue reading Monday, June 12, the RSJ Department is hosting a Juneteenth flag-raising ceremony →

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

Can I ask you a question why were there no ambulances at the Somerville High School Dilboy Field Graduation the other night in case of emergency? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:I Didn’t Notice Any EMT’s at SHS Graduation →

Click on link below to read June 6th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 6th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Continue reading Congratulations Somerville High School Class of 2023! May all your dreams come true! From William “Billy” Tauro and all you friends at the Somerville/Medford News Weekly →

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By Bob Katzen

QUOTABLE QUOTES – DAIRY FARMS BY THE NUMBERS EDITION

The Massachusetts Dairy Promotion Board in conjunction with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources announced dairy promotion grants to fund projects that will advance the image, sale of and demand for local dairy products. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would make colleges with undergraduate graduation rates of less than 30 percent or with an above average rate of students who default on student loans ineligible to receive state scholarship and financial aid funds.”
Continue reading COLLEGES MUST MAINTAIN CERTAIN STANDARDS TO RECEIVE ANY STATE FUNDS FOR SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL AID (S 830) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would require all state universities that have dormitories or other housing for students to have Narcan or similar opioid antagonists in each college-operated housing building. Narcan is an emergency treatment used for the complete or partial reversal of opioid overdose. Continue reading REQUIRE NARCAN IN COLLEGE DORMS AND HOUSING (S 849) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would require high schools and colleges with programs that allow students to study abroad to prioritize health, safety and security in program development, implementation and management of study abroad programs. Continue reading PROTECT STUDENTS STUDYING ABROAD (S 820) →

By Bob Katzen

The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee held a hearing on a bill that would allow liquor and retail store clerks to accept a valid photographic, non-duplicate motor vehicle license issued by other states as a valid form of ID to purchase liquor in the Bay State.
Continue reading PURCHASE ALCOHOL (H 369) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would increase funding by $400,000 (from $400,000 to $800,000) for grants to schools for the prevention of hate crimes and incidences of bias in public schools. Continue reading ADDITIONAL $400,000 FOR THE PREVENTION OF HATE CRIMES (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would provide $300,000 for the state to develop, research and recommend strategies to address the rising incidence of reported drink spiking in the Bay State. Continue reading $300,000 FOR DRINK SPIKING CRISIS (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would provide $1 million to support a hunger-free campus initiative to address food insecurity at public colleges and junior colleges.
Continue reading $1 MILLION FIGHT HUNGER ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 3-36, rejected an amendment that would maintain the current 90/5/5 law under which 90 percent of the capital gains tax collections exceeding $1 billion goes to the Rainy Day Fund, 5 percent to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund and 5 percent to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund. Continue reading SEND 90 PERCENT OF CAPITAL GAINS TAX REVENUE ABOVE $1 BILLION TO THE RAINY DAY FUND (S 3) →

On the evening of May 29, 2023, while in full uniform I was assigned to marked unit East-2, working the First Half Shift from 4PM-12AM. At approximately 10:06PM I was dispatched to 89 Porter St. for a report of a motor vehicle accident. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories (OUI Liquor, Suspended License) Arrest →

I, Officer Mark McLaughlin of the Somerville Police Department, report the following summary of facts:

On Thursday, June 1, 2023, I worked my assigned 8 AM-4 PM shift in full uniform, operating marked cruiser West-6. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Attempt to Commit Crime x2, Resisting Arrest) →

Albert Argenziano Obituary

Argenziano, Albert F. Albert F. Argenziano passed away on June 3, 2023 at the age of 82.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Albert F. Argenziano 1941 – 2023 →

DOROTHY’S OBITUARY

Dorothy M. Sears of Somerville, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on May 30, 2023 at home with her two children by her side. She was 79. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dorothy M. Sears →

COLIN’S OBITUARY

U.S. Veteran
Colin George Chisholm, 84, a lifelong resident of Somerville, died peacefully on May 26, 2023 after a short illness. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Colin George Chisholm →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is announcing $2 million in City funding support for area nonprofits, leveraging funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The online program portal is now open and will accept applications until July 31, 2023, at 5 p.m.
Continue reading Somerville Opens New ARPA Funding Round to Support General Operations for Local Nonprofits City nonprofits can apply now for operational support funding →

MARY’S OBITUARY
BOUDREAU, Mary J. (O’Brien) – Of Winchester formerly of Somerville June 2, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary J. Boudreau →

Somerville Kiwanis Club Official Photo:
Pictured above on the far let are Distinguished Past President David O’Brien, Kiwanis President Haley Adams, the nine student recipients atending are in the center and Scholarship Commitee members Eugene Brune, Past President Frank Wright, Past President and Commitee Chairman Anthony Ciccariello and Past President Isaac Machado on the far right.

SOMERVILLE_On Thursday, June 1st, The Kiwanis Club of Somerville held it’s annual Scholarship Luncheon at the Mount Vernon Restaurant to recognize twelve Somerville High School Seniors. The recipients competed for this scholarship by writng an essay which was reviewed by the Somerviille Scholarship Commitee, who selected the twelve recipients. Continue reading KIWANIS CLUB OF SOMERVILLE Annual Scholarship Luncheon →

GERTRUDE’S OBITUARY
Dorson, Gertrude- Of Lawrence, passed away on May 27, 2023 after a brief illness. She was 65. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Gertrude Dorson →

Somerville Firefighters Local 76
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Due to the station door failing 3 times since Thursday and now being completely out of service, Ladder 3 has been moved from the Teele Square station to the Highland Avenue station. Continue reading Somerville Fire Station Door Failing 3 Times Since Thursday and Now Being Completely Out of Service →

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

I have been in construction for many years. Anyone notice that the older buildings were so well built they had a hard time knocking them down. Once new ones were built they needed a lot of work and some of it very major. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Winter Hill School Neglect By City Hall →

Dear Winter Hill School Community,

Today’s update will be long because we have many new details to share. Please visit http://www.somerville.k12.ma.us for additional information and any new details we confirm over the next few days. We will continue to email the WHCIS community daily.
Continue reading A message from SOMERVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT →

Keep the celebration going at the Somerville Arts Council and Somerville Health and Human Services Department’s Big Gay Dance Party in Union Square Plaza on Saturday, June 17, from 5 to 8 p.m. (Rain Date: June 18). Continue reading Somerville’s Big Gay Dance Party in Union Square →