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Speak to Our Staff Continue reading RAPID MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION LLC 857-228-6682 1-888-480-8885 →

The auxiliary fire vehicle is over thirty years old. They been helping the community since 1942 , they have never had new equipment always used. The auxiliary fire pumps out basements for 100 years free of charge , with volunteers doing the work. Guess what, from what I hear the Somerville city council just turned them down for newer apparatus worth 12,000.00 dollars. Continue reading Somerville Fire Auxiliary Department Being Neglected →

One of our most important institutions that is constantly forgotten is the Registry of Deeds.
We are only reminded of this elected office when securing property or concluding a transaction involving real estate. Then, it becomes the most important focus in the business of the day..

I plan to restore the integrity and accountability, that the Registry of Deeds should have at all times. But, has faltered, even prior to the covid epidemic. Continue reading VOTE William “Billy” Tauro For Middlesex County Register of Deeds Nov 5th →

Dear Editor,

“Do you know who I am?” The Privledged Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone has to go! She allegedly tried using her ex-husband‘s name who was a kernel of the State Police who divorced her who can’t stand her and she was told to get lost and try another name! Your thoughts? Maria Curtatone ordering the state police to let her son go because she is the register of deeds! Not!
Continue reading Letter to the Editor: Middlesex County Register or Deeds Maria Curtatone Ordering State Troopers To Release Son While Son Boasts It On Instagram “Do You Know Who I Am?” →

Paul M. Nolan
7/23/2024

Paul Michael Nolan, 49, of Somerville, Massachusetts, was called to eternal rest on July 23, 2024. Son of the late Elaine Ramirez Nolan of Cambridge and Ricardo Powell of Panama, he was born on May 19, 1975, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Paul M. Nolan →

Sylvia M. (Frongillo) Candelino
8/25/2024

Sylvia M. (Frongillo) Candelino, age 73, formerly of Boston’s North End, passed away on Sunday, August 25th at Bear Hill Nursing Center of Stoneham. Born and raised in the North End, she was the daughter of the late Emilio and Louise J. (Todesco) Frongillo. Sylvia lived in East Boston and Somerville, and was employed for many years in the Middlesex County Registry of Probate.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Sylvia M. (Frongillo) Candelino →

Click on link below to read August 27th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online August 27th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading August 27th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Our audit found that, under prior leadership, the Convention Center cherry-picked when it was convenient or not convenient to follow public records law, Chapter 30B, alongside its own policies and procedures with regard to state procurement and contracting. Deeply troubling is also the fact that prior leadership violated the law in executing a $1.2 million non-disclosure agreement – concealing allegations of racial discrimination.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The MBTA announced that expanded access to reduced fares for income-eligible riders begins on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

This new program provides riders who are aged 18-64 and have low income, with reduced one-way fares of approximately 50 percent off on all travel inclujding MBTA buses, subways, commuter rail and The RIDE. Continue reading MBTA’S INCOME-ELIGIBLE REDUCED FARE PROGRAM BEGINS ON SEPTEMBER 4 →

By Bob Katzen

The Healey administration announced $3.75 million in grants to 18 grassroots organizations to help reduce the harm caused by the opioid epidemic in communities disproportionately impacted by overdose deaths. The grants are awarded through the Mosaic Opioid Recovery Partnership, a new grant program designed to support underserved communities and populations that have experienced a high rate of opioid-related overdose deaths.
Continue reading $3.75 MILLION TO ADDRESS OPIOID CRISIS →

By Bob Katzen

Early in-person voting in the upcoming September 3 state primaries kicked off Saturday, August 24 and runs through Friday, August 30. Under Massachusetts law, all cities and towns in Massachusetts are required to offer early voting.
Continue reading EARLY IN-PERSON VOTING IS OPEN FROM SATURDAY, AUGUST 24 THROUGH FRIDAY, AUGUST 30 →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a maternal health bill that would require certified professional midwives and lactation consultants to be licensed; encourage the creation of more freestanding birth centers; establish a grant program to address maternal mental health and substance use disorder; expand the statewide universal postpartum home visiting program; and mandate that insurers provide coverage for postpartum depression and major depressive disorder screenings for perinatal individuals.
Continue reading MATERNAL HEALTH (H 4999) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 154-4, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of the entire $875,000 for a statewide college and career readiness program implemented by JFYNetWorks, a nonprofit corporation, to provide online instructional curricula to help students meet the Massachusetts state standards at each grade level and reduce learning loss and achievement gaps. The program would also prepare students for required assessments and college placement tests in middle school and high school.
Continue reading $875,000 FOR COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS PROGRAM (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 134-24, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $7.5 million (reducing funding from $10 million to $2.5 million) for programs to encourage graduates of the state’s public colleges to work as public school teachers. Continue reading $7.5 MILLION FOR PROGRAMS TO ENCOURAGE STATE COLLEGE GRADUATES TO BECOME PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

House 155-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $650,000 (reducing funding from $1.5 million to $850,000) for loans to small businesses.
Continue reading 650,000 FOR MICROLOANS TO BUSINESSES (H 4800) →

On August 31, City to create remembrance flag garden for community members lost to opioid overdoses

Awareness and Narcan distribution events open to all in September

SOMERVILLE—Once again, purple flags will soon solemnly grace the front lawn of Somerville City Hall. They will stand in memory of residents whose lives were lost to opioid-related overdose in 2023 and beyond. The annual flag display is just one way that the Continue reading Purple Flag Memorial, Free Narcan, and Prevention Trainings Mark Somerville’s Observance of Overdose Awareness Day and Recovery Month →

Meetings for all seven wards will be held Mid-September through Mid-October

SOMERVILLE–Community
members are invited to join Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville City Council at the 2024 City Hall Community Meetings. Join us to get an overview of the latest City news, learn more about City programs and initiatives, meet your neighbors, find ways to
get involved, and talk with elected officials and City staff.
Continue reading Join Somerville’s 2024 Community Meetings Series to Learn About Latest City Initiatives from Mayor Ballantyne and City Staff →

Obituary
Alphonse Villefranc, of Somerville, passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, following a long life focused on his faith and family. He was 95 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Alphonse Villefranc →

Obituary
Walsh, Robert W. “Bob” – Of Medford, passed away on Thursday, August 22, 2024 with his wife and brother by his side. He was 82 years old.

Complete obit to be posted. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert W. “Bob” Walsh →

Obituary
Sujittra Chaturongkul, of Somerville, passed away on Monday, August 19th, following complications from gastric cancer. She was 68 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Sujittra Chaturongkul →

Obituary
Virginia A. Zompanti, 87, of Medford, passed away on Friday, August 23, 2024.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Virginia A. Zompanti →

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

To the Editor:

With deep regret I wish to complain against the misuse of the Seven Hills Park, behind Davis Square.
The Park used to be a pride of all the residents of the park was the a desired recreation site for walkers, children and senior citizens.
Things have drastically changed within the last few months. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Neighbors In Uproar of Misuse of Seven Hills Park →

By William Tauro

Last week I broke the news about an alleged attempted crime of changing a deed/defrauding family beneficiaries with the assistance of the current Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone. Since the article of allegations came out and surfaced exposing the scheme, the property located at 44 Warren Street in East Cambridge MA. has been taken off the market. Continue reading Alleged Accusations Against Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone’s Conspiracy Scheme to Defraud Beneficiaries Out of Property Shares Thickens →

VOTE William “Billy” Tauro Nov 5th

One of our most important institutions that is constantly forgotten is the Registry of Deeds.
We are only reminded of this elected office when securing property or concluding a transaction involving real estate. Then, it becomes the most important focus in the business of the day..

I plan to restore the integrity and accountability, that the Registry of Deeds should have at all times. But, has faltered, even prior to the covid epidemic. Continue reading VOTE William “Billy” Tauro Register of Deeds Nov 5th →

Dear Editor and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,

The city’s affordable unit they put me in CANNOT even pass building codes AND has TOXIC mold. I am disabled and this can be fatal for me and is unsafe. Why can ISD- Building Department conduct stealth meetings with landlord, but cannot return a phone call from the tenant? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: OPEN RECORDS: City of Somerville -and- Transparency: “Oxymoron You Think” →

Congratulations to Somerville’s finest Rachel Taylor and Haley LaMonte for being recognized tonight at Somerville City Hall, Continue reading Somerville Animal Control Division Recognized for Achieving a ‘No Kill’ status →

Happy 70th Birthday to my good friend Sal Caruso who is being recognized at Somerville City Hall tonight in recognition for his commitment as a lifelong Somerville resident making Somerville a better place. Continue reading Lifelong Somerville Resident South Caruso Turns 70 Years Old →

Dear Editor,

Family members of the late Jennie C. Carvello are calling foul and alleging that Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone allegedly used the influence of her office for a deceitful scheme to defraud other beneficiaries, then waiting a long period of time after the death of the property owner to record the documents at the Registry of Deeds in Cambridge where Curtatone oversees as registrar. 

According to the family, the new beneficiary then took multiple personal loans against the property draining the properties equity by allegedly using the funds for a down payment on her new home, paying off her child’s college education and also elaborate vacations. Continue reading Family of Deceased Aunt Accusing Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone of Alleged Wrongdoing for fixing a Friend’s Deed to Deprive Other Family Members of Property Ownership Shares →

For the seventh year, members of the Kiwanis Club of Somerville delivered over 200 backpacks filled with school supplies for distribution to high school students who are most in need of assistance. The students who will receive these backpacks will be identified by the staff at Somerville High School and the administrators at Prospect Hill Academy. Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Club of Somerville Delivers Over 200 Backpacks Filled with School Supplies For Distribution to High School Students →

Click on link below to read August 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online August 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading August 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Massachusetts is the best state to live in, due in large part to its strong health care system and high-quality education. Massachusetts has the lowest premature death rate in the country and the lowest share of adults in fair or poor health. It also has the highest share of residents with health insurance coverage, at 97.3 percent. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a measure that would require a manufacturer or person that sells Firefighting Personal Protective Equipment to any person or government agency, to provide, beginning January 1, 2025, written notice to the buyer, at the time of sale, if the equipment contains toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance chemicals, Continue reading PROTECT FIREFIGHTERS (S 2902) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Healey a maternal health bill that would require certified professional midwives and lactation consultants to be licensed; encourage the creation of more freestanding birth centers; establish a grant program to address maternal mental health and substance use disorder; expand the statewide universal postpartum home visiting program; and mandate that insurers provide coverage for postpartum depression and major depressive disorder screenings for perinatal individuals. Continue reading MATERNAL HEALTH (H 4999) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $1 million (reducing funding from $2.5 million to $1.5 million) for a competitive grant program to work with urban entrepreneurs to promote small businesses, create new jobs and support workforce development and training initiatives in urban communities. Continue reading $1 MILLION FOR URBAN ENTREPRENEURS (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $500,000 (reducing funding from $15.9 million to $15.4 million for a Youth-at-Risk program. Continue reading $500,000 FOR JOBS PROGRAM FOR AT-RISK-YOUTH (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-2, overrode Gov. Maura Healey’s veto of $1 million (reducing funding from $11 million to $10 million) for contracted support services for families of children with autism.
Continue reading $1 MILLION FOR AUTISM (H 4800) →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, on behalf of the City of Somerville, has reached a new agreement with the union representing its Emergency Telecommunicators (Police Dispatchers) for a new contract, providing improved wages and benefits for a vital group of the City’s public safety workforce. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announces New Union Agreement Increasing Pay & Benefits for Somerville Emergency Telecommunicators/Police Dispatchers →

By Sharon Deyeso

RUNNING ROUND TOWN I start on a part up note and hit many unrepaired roads…the State paid (actually you and me) for Mystic Ave, so where is our road repair, DPW tax money? I always look at a big picture to make a good reason….BUT besides broken branches, blocked drain spots, potholes, I am wanting a topical clean, plain appearance. Take down the dead and poor, newly dead saplings! Continue reading Medford: God Bless the USA and READ baby READ and Watch SOME VARIED NEWS, BABY WATCH!! →

Dear Sponsor:
On Monday October 7, 2024, the Somerville Firefighters Local 76 will be hosting the annual Davy Fitz Memorial Golf Tournament at Hillview Golf Course in North Reading, MA. Continue reading Somerville Firefighters Local 76 will be hosting the annual Davy Fitz Memorial Golf Tournament →

RUNNING ROUND TOWN I start on a part up note and hit many unrepaired roads…the State paid (actually you and me) for Mystic Ave, so where is our road repair, DPW tax money? I always look at a big picture to make a good reason….BUT besides broken branches, blocked drain spots, potholes, Continue reading God Bless the USA and READ baby READ and Watch SOME VARIED NEWS, BABY WATCH! →

The filming of one of many TV documentary commercials this month to air in September and October to get our message out and to expose what has been going on in the Southern Middlesex County Registry of Deeds under my opponents watch! Continue reading More Reasons Why Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone Has To Go! →

Another horrible anecdote from my source about how nefarious and callous Maria Curtatone and her minions are at the Registry will show just how deplorable they are, involves a person, who is retired now, who has a handicap and was mocked, harassed and made fun of on a daily basis.
Continue reading Letter to the Editor:Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone Accused Of Mocking Disabled County Employee →

Obituary
Barbara Anne Spindler, a lifelong Somerville resident, passed away on August 14, 2024, just after her 86th birthday.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Barbara Anne Spindler →

Mrs. Anna Maria (Avallone) Vecchiarello, of Ashland and formerly of Somerville, passed away on August 9, 2024, she was 78. Born and raised in Gaeta, Italy she was daughter of the late Rosa (Della Valle) and Nicola Avallone. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Anna Maria (Avallone) Vecchiarello →

Obituary for Dennis M. Hardy
HARDY, Dennis M., Lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away peacefully at his home on August 15, 2024. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dennis M. Hardy →

Benford to depart dual roles as Boston Housing Authority Police Chief and Boston Chief of Emergency Management to lead Somerville PD

SOMERVILLE—Mayor Katjana Ballantyne announced today the selection of Boston’s Shumeane Benford as the City of Somerville’s new police chief. After a thorough community-driven, nationwide search, Benford will assume leadership of the Somerville Police Department on September 16. The 30-year law enforcement veteran will be departing current dual roles as Boston Housing Authority Police Chief as well as Boston Chief of Emergency Management.
Continue reading Somerville Names Boston’s Shumeane Benford as New Police Chief →

Dear Editor,

No lawyers here today yet on the floor…..never here before 9am…..and the Registry starts work at 8am…..dereliction of duty…..top assistant Carmel xxxxx is getting paid more or less $100,000 to do union labor…..not her job…..didn’t get hired for that. Does not care about union labor.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Maria Curtatone and Top Staff Accused of Dereliction of Duty at Southern Middlesex County Registry of Deeds →

Mrs. Maria M. Carreiro Luis
Category: Obituaries Published: August 14, 2024
Maria Carreiro Luis Maria Margarida Carreiro Luis “Maggie” passed away on August 12, 2024, surrounded by her loving family at the age of 69.
She was the loving mother of Lawrence (Larry) Carreiro and his wife Karen of Woburn. Devoted wife of Mario Luis. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mrs. Maria M. Carreiro Lui →

The Ted Williams Camp Alumni and Friends hosted a Jimmy Fund Benefit at the Ted Williams Camp In Lakeville, MA on Saturday, July 13, 2024. Through the generous donations and contributions from business and individuals we raised over 10K this year. Continue reading Ted Williams Camp Alumni and Friends News Updates →

Click on link below to read August 13th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online August 13th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading August 13th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Survivors of sexual assault already have so many obstacles to overcome when bringing their experiences forward. We have tools to hold perpetrators accountable and help survivors but unaddressed delays minimize the injustice experienced by survivors and place others at risk for potential assaults. The Executive Office of Public Safety and Security needs to take these matters seriously, and ensure these kits are being tracked correctly, processing kits on time and in accordance with the law.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House a bill that would extend employment protection for workers employed through a temporary hiring agency. These workers, if they are victims of domestic assault, could not have their contract terminated if they miss a reasonable amount of time for certain appointments. Covered appointments include doctor’s appointments, hospital stays and court dates. This would mirror the protections currently granted to bona fide employees of a company.
Continue reading DOMESTIC ASSAULT AND JOBS (S 2934) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law legislation designed to benefit veterans in the Bay State by broadening the definition of a veteran, increasing tax credits and state benefits for which they are eligible and modernizing the services on which they rely.
Continue reading VETERANS BENEFITS (S 2817) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Healey a measure that would require a manufacturer or person that sells Firefighting Personal Protective Equipment to any person or government agency, to provide, beginning January 1, 2025, written notice to the buyer, at the time of sale, if the equipment contains toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance chemicals, known as PFAS. The seller would also have to provide the reason the chemicals were added to the equipment. Beginning on January 1, 2027, the bill prohibits any person from manufacturing, knowingly selling or distributing any equipment containing intentionally added PFAS chemicals.
Continue reading PROTECT FIREFIGHTERS (S 2902) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law legislation changing how a family is defined in state law.

Supporters said the new law would ensure legal parentage equality by protecting LGBTQ+ families, and children born through surrogacy and assisted reproduction, in forming the legal bond of a parent-child relationship. They said the measure would dismantle archaic legal barriers to basic parenting responsibilities for modern families, opening the door to legally attend and make decisions during medical appointments, manage a child’s finances, participate in educational decisions and provide authorizations for a child’s travel. Continue reading PARENTAGE EQUALITY (S 2906) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved and Gov. Healey signed into law legislation that would provide police officers who have suffered a violent act injury, 100 percent regular compensation and pension benefits, until they reach the age of mandatory retirement. Violent act injury is defined as “a serious and permanent personal bodily injury sustained as a direct and proximate result of a violent attack upon a person by means of a dangerous weapon, including a firearm, knife, automobile, explosive device or other dangerous weapon.” Continue reading DISABILITY PENSION FOR POLICE OFFICERS (S 2887) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $5 million (reducing funding from $10 million to $5 million) for the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program which was created to ensure that individuals and families have access to food, especially food that is produced locally, and equitable access to food. The program also seeks to ensure that farmers, fisherman and other local food producers are better connected to a strong, resilient food system to help mitigate future food supply and distribution disruption.
Continue reading $5 MILLION FOR FOOD SECURITY (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $800,000 (reducing funding from $12.7 million to $11.9 million) for the Department of Agriculture. The veto includes cuts of $100,000 from the Massachusetts Food Trust Program; another $100,000 from the Buy Local effort; and the entire $250,000 for local food policy councils.

The Senate did not act on the veto so the veto stands and the $800,000 was eliminated.
Continue reading $800,000 FOR DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FOOD PROGRAMS (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of the entire $1.5 million for the Massachusetts Sewer Rate Relief Fund which was established in 1993 to help reduce the rising costs of sewer services in the Bay State.

The Senate did not act on the veto so the veto stands and the $1.5 million was eliminated.
Continue reading $1.5 MILLION FOR WATER AND SEWER RELIEF (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 128-24, Senate 37-2, approved and Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a housing bill that would authorize $5.1 billion in borrowing to spur housing production in the Bay State.
Continue reading $5.1 BILLION FOR HOUSING (H 4977) →

As the risk of disease rises, continue to protect yourself from mosquitoes and ticks this season.

SOMERVILLE–
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has
announced
the first positive human case of West
Nile Virus (WNV) and first animal case of
Eastern Continue reading Prevent West Nile Virus as First Human Case Confirmed in Massachusetts →

Margaret Klessens is 100 years young on August 17th 2024. She is a World War II Army Veteran born and raised in Charlestown Mass. She moved to Somerville in 1962 where she raised her family. Continue reading Somerville Resident Margaret Klessens Turns 100 →

SOMERVILLE – On Tuesday, September 3, 2024 the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will hold its State Primary Elections.

The offices on the ballot for this election include:
U.S. Senator
U.S. Representative
Governor’s Councillor
State Senator
State Representative
Register of Deeds
Clerk of Courts Continue reading Somerville Voting Information for State of Massachusetts Primary Elections →

Community Stories Will Help Inform City’s Anti-Displacement Efforts

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice Continue reading Join Somerville’s Anti-Displacement Task Force Video Series to Share Your Story and Help Combat Displacement →

Meshell Ndegeocello’s New Album,
No More Water, Just Released!

We can’t wait for next month! Grammy-winning musician Meshell Ndegeocello will grace Arts at the Armory’s Spotlight Series and Performance Hall on Friday, September 20th. Continue reading Meshell Ndegeocello at Arts at the Armory Sep. 20 →

Somerville, MA– Grammy-winning musician Meshell Ndegeocello will grace Arts at the Armory’s Spotlight Series and Performance Hall on Friday, September 20, 2024. Continue reading The Center for Arts at the Armory’s Spotlight Series Presents Grammy-Winning Meshell Ndegeocello in September 2024 →

Citywide hydrant maintenance keeps hydrants ready in case of fire;

Temporary water discoloration may occur but water is safe to drink

SOMERVILLE– The Somerville Fire Department will begin the annual inspection and flushing of all fire hydrants citywide on Monday, August 12, 2024, Continue reading Fire Department to Conduct Hydrant Flushing August 12-24 →

Applications for two general public volunteer members due Friday, August 30

SOMERVILLE– The City of Somerville is currently seeking two general public volunteer members for the Community Preservation Committee (CPC). All Somerville residents
are welcome to apply.
Continue reading Join Somerville’s Community Preservation Committee →



William (Billy) Tauro is an individual of compassion, generosity, ethics and respect.

Billy’s parents came from Italy and his father served in the military here. As was true of my Uncle Larry (Navy), Billy’s father was in the D Day Invasion.

In Somerville, Massachusetts, all the Veterans statues and plaques were removed and put in storage. As one the those receiving this email bcc said, this is disgraceful. Continue reading A letter to Belmont Residents from Jane Schapiro Regarding William Tauro For Registrar of Deeds →

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

Also illegal…..Maria going around here and talking to employees about the election……intimidation……saying how If Billy Tauro got in it would be a disaster and she’s much better and you don’t know anything about this job…..constantly doing this in front of everyone….people are very scared…..Carmel and Michelle help push the effort along with Maria’s informants….. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Why Maria Curtatone Shouldn’t Be in Office at South Middlesex Registry of Deeds →

Obituary
John P. “Jack” Brosnahan, of Somerville, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on August 6, 2024, he was 66. Born in Boston and raised in Charlestown, Jack was one of five children born to Suzanne (LaPrise) Brosnahan of Charlestown and the late Eugene Brosnahan.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John P. “Jack” Brosnahan →

Obituary
Carney, Robert R.- Of Somerville, passed away on Monday, August 5, 2024. He was 84 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert R. “Bob” Carney →

Please Come Join Us For Our Complimentary Annual Salute to Our Veterans in Somerville 🇺🇸 This is a tradition that we’ve been doing for many years for our veterans!

Hello all military veterans of all branches of service from any city or town! Please come and join us on our Annual Winter Hill Yacht Club WHYC VETERANS CRUISE to salute our veterans on Sunday September 8th for a day of fun on the water!
Continue reading Annual Winter Hill Yacht Club WHYC VETERANS CRUISE Somerville →

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

Dear Billy,

I was told by my registry co-workers and also friends, attorneys and title examiners to reach out to you because you are an expertise in this business straightening people like her out.

Our current Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone is committing inappropriate illegal behavior at the registry by meetings with her staff Carmel, Michelle(first assistant) and other employees about advertising and social media for her campaign at the registry while they are on the clock. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Illegal Activity at South Middlesex County Registry of Deeds Orchestrated By Maria Curtatone →

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Obituary
August, Hope M. – Of Somerville, passed away on Monday, August 5, 2024. She was 84 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering August M. Hope →

The aging population in Massachusetts is increasing, while at the same time, the number of older adults with behavioral health problems is also rising. Massachusetts is not alone – U.S. officials have described older Americans as facing a behavioral health crisis.
Continue reading MVES Awarded Grant to Ease Behavioral Health Crisis →

Click on link below to read August 6th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online August 6th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online Continue reading August 6th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“We were absolutely thrilled to witness the signing of the bill, standing shoulder to shoulder with Gov. Healey, our legislative champions, advocates and survivors from across the commonwealth. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Healey legislation that effective January 1, 2025, would ban elephants, bears, lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, cheetahs and other wild animals from being used in traveling circuses and other traveling shows in Massachusetts. Continue reading BAN ELEPHANTS AND OTHER ANIMALS (H 4915) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law legislation that would provide police officers who have suffered a violent act injury, 100 percent regular compensation and pension benefits, until they reach the age of mandatory retirement. Violent act injury is defined as “a serious and permanent personal bodily injury sustained as a direct and proximate result of a violent attack upon a person by means of a dangerous weapon, including a firearm, knife, automobile, explosive device or other dangerous weapon.”
Continue reading DISABILITY PENSION FOR POLICE OFFICERS (H 2536) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a bill that would invest in information technology (IT) upgrades, improvements and new projects across state government. The measure authorizes $1.23 billion in bonded spending and $400 million in anticipated federal funds.
Continue reading $1.26 BILLION BOND FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (H 4889) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a bill, named the Frances Perkins Workplace Equity Act, in honor of the first woman to serve as U.S. Labor Secretary. The measure would require employers with 25 or more employees to disclose a salary range when posting a job position. The measure also would require employers with 100 or more employees to file annual employment data reports, including information on employee demographics and salaries, with the state.
Continue reading WAGE TRANSPARENCY (H 4890) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey, after vetoing several items, signed into law a $58 billion fiscal 2025 state budget for the fiscal year that began July 1, 2024. The price tag represents a 1.97 billion or 3.5 percent increase over last year’s fiscal 2024 budget.
Continue reading FISCAL 2025 STATE BUDGET (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved a bill that would allow the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to establish rules and regulations for dog kennels in the Bay State, to ensure animal welfare, protect consumers and keep kennel staff safe. A person who violates the regulations would be fined $500 for a first offense and $1,000 for a second or subsequent offense. The House has already approved a different version of the measure and the Senate version now goes to the House for consideration.
Continue reading DOG KENNEL SAFETY – OLLIE’S LAW (S 2929) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved and sent to Gov. Healey a bill that supporters say would ensure legal parentage equality by protecting LGBTQ+ families, and children born through surrogacy and assisted reproduction, in forming the legal bond of a parent-child relationship. They said the measure would dismantle archaic legal barriers to basic parenting responsibilities for modern families, opening the door to legally attend and make decisions during medical appointments, manage a child’s finances, participate in educational decisions and provide authorizations for a child’s travel. Continue reading PARENTAGE EQUALITY (S 2906) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 154-4, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of the entire $250,000 for a grant program to school districts to support the implementation of financial literacy courses and standards for students in kindergarten to grade 12, including training and developing programs to assist teachers in incorporating appropriate financial literacy concepts into classroom curriculum. The Senate did not act on the veto.
Continue reading $250,000 FOR FINANCIAL LITERACY (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 134-24, overrode Gov. Maura Healey’s veto of $7.5 million (reducing funding from $10 million to $2.5 million) for scholarship and loan repayment for students seeking a teaching degree in the state’s public colleges. The Senate did not act on the veto.
Continue reading $7.5 MILLION FOR TOMORROW’S TEACHERS (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 158-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would create a special commission to review current federal, state and local laws and procedures governing the use and misuse of service animals by individuals with disabilities in the Bay State. The commission would recommend the possible introduction of legislation prohibiting and civilly penalizing service animal fraud and determining the feasibility of certification, registration or licensing of service animals.
Continue reading CREATE COMMISSION TO STUDY MISREPRESENTATION OF A SERVICE ANIMAL (H 4917) →

Obituary
Broberg, Daniel – Of Sanford, Maine, passed away on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. He was 75.

Born in Norway, Maine, he was the son of the late Axel K. Broberg and Barbara L. (Smith) Perrone.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel P. Broberg →

Obituary
McFarland, Barbara J. – Of Mendon, formerly of Somerville and Cambridge, passed away on Friday, August 2, 2024. She was 78 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Barbara J. McFarland →

Residents are invited to this annual citywide yard sale for art!

Continue reading Somerville’s Yart Sale →

Obituary

Inus Daneel, African Theologian

Marthinus “Inus” Louis Daneel of Somerville, MA, and Polokwane, South Africa, died on July 29, 2024, at age 87, after a long illness. Daneel was a noted eco-theologian, ecumenist, author of fourteen published scholarly volumes on African Christianity and traditional religion, and founder of ecumenical movements in Masvingo Province, Zimbabwe. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marthinus “Inus” Daneel →

Applications for Open Seat for Alternate Member Due Monday, August 26, 2024

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is currently seeking applicants for one open
alternate position on the Somerville Licensing Commission. We welcome applications from all Somerville residents ages 18 or older who meet the qualifications detailed below.

Continue reading Join the Somerville Licensing Commission →

Obituary
Van Stry, Kevin E. – Of Saugus, formerly of Medford, passed away at his home on Monday, July 29, 2024. He was 73 years young.

Born and raised in Cambridge, he was the son of the late John and Katherine (Conway) Van Stry.

Kevin was a man of many passions and an unwavering commitment to the joy of others. His love for the water was evident in his sailing adventures, where he found solace and exhilaration in the changing landscapes around him. Whether navigating the waves or engaging in a game of pool, Kevin approached each moment with a competitive spirit and a twinkle in his eye. Those who played pool with him knew they had to bring their best game, as he was famously undefeatable.

In his quieter moments, Kevin’s insatiable curiosity led him to delve into the mechanics of various products, always eager to understand how things worked and operated. This thirst for knowledge was matched only by his profound desire to help others. Kevin found true fulfillment in assisting those around him, and his efforts were always accompanied by a heartfelt smile that brightened the lives of many.

Beloved husband of the late Noreen (Quinn) Van Stry. Devoted father of Erik Van Stry, Katherine Van Stry, and the late Kevin Van Stry Jr and Carol Van Stry and Daniel Van Stry of Medford. Cherished grandfather of Ryan, Jacqueline and Colin Van Stry, Jacob and Cadence Van Stry. Loving brother of Richard Van Stry, Kathryn Hahan and her husband Terry and the late Carol Costa, Daniel Van Stry, Diane Kelley, Janet Van Stry and Jackie Van Stry. Also survived by the mother of his two youngest children Hien Troug, and many loving nieces, nephews friends and cousins.

A funeral procession will be held from the George L. Doherty Funeral Home 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville on Wednesday, August 7th at 9:00AM. Followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Raphael Church 512 High St., Medford at 10:00AM.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.

Calling Hours will be held on Tuesday, August 6th from 5:00PM to 7:00PM. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kevin E. Van Stry, Sr. →

By William Tauro

Tonight, dining at Oye’s in Reading MA! All I can say is “Outstanding!” The restaurant is awesome and with invigorating atmosphere, delightful menu and the restaurant is awesome and a fun place to spend the evening! Continue reading A Review of Oye’s Chinese Restaurant in Reading MA →

Just to Clear Up Some Election Confusion

If you notice on your early primary election ballots, my name does not appear. Yes, please you can write me in, but I will be on the General Election ballot on November 5th. The reason why I am not on the Democratic nor Republican primary ballot is because I’m not a Democrat nor a Republican, I’m an Independent, I vote for the person, not the party and with everyone’s help, yes we will win the election! I thank you for thinking of me. Very much appreciated,
Billy

PS:If you would like to write William Billy Tauro 333 Great River Rd. Somerville in the space provided that also will be very much appreciated. Thank you. 🙏

Obituary

Juanita Lillian Meranda (Nita) was born in Boston, MA on November 14, 1943. She was the only child born to the late Raymond Meranda and the late Berniece (Williams) Meranda. She attended school in Boston graduating from Jeremiah E Burke High School for Girls. After high school she attended Boston State College where she earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Juanita Lillian Meranda →