December 31st 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online

By Bob Katzen

Special Snowplow Edition

   The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) announced the winners of the third annual “Name A Snowplow” contest for elementary and middle school students in Massachusetts. 

   The contest received entries from public school classrooms located all across the state to name the 12 MassDOT snowplows that will be in service during this 2024-2025 winter season. The purpose of the contest is to celebrate the snow and ice season and to help recognize the hard work and dedication shown by public works employees and contractors during the winter season.   

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House legislation that would change the name of the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to the Executive Office of Aging and Independence. The proposal also replaces outdated language in the state’s lawbooks, including changing “elderly persons,” to “older adults” and “handicapped” to “adults with a disability.” The new legislation also incorporates gender-neutral language into current law. The original version of the bill was filed by Gov. Healey in May.

The Senate approved a House-approved proposal, originally sponsored by Gov. Healey, which would prevent commercial drivers from losing their licenses due to passenger vehicle offenses they committed prior to September 30, 2005.

The Registry of Motor Vehicles recently notified hundreds of bus and truck drivers that they were ineligible for commercial licenses due to at least two past major offenses, blindsiding many motorists who for years thought their infractions were behind them.

   “Over time, the relevance and predictive value of these older offenses has diminished, particularly for those drivers who have remained offense-free since,” said Healey. “In most circumstances, a commercial driver who meets the safety requirements of federal law should not be disqualified from driving due solely to passenger vehicle offenses that occurred 19 or more years ago.” She noted her bill would remove consideration of pre-September 30, 2005 passenger vehicle offenses from our disqualification law, except for multiple instances of operating under the influence.

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved a House approved proposal, originally sponsored by Gov. Healey, which would prevent commercial drivers from losing their licenses due to passenger vehicle offenses they committed prior to September 30, 2005.

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate legislation waiving, for six years, until 2030, a law that requires businesses and groups to have a 35 percent participation rate in order to qualify for group auto and home insurance discount rates. The measure permits groups with less than the 35 percent participation to take advantage of group rates, which supporters said will save members between 5 percent and 8 percent. The law has been waived since 1997. The 35 percent requirement was first included in a 1973 law.

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed an Executive Order to increase the participation of women and historically underrepresented groups in construction.

   The Executive Order establishes a Diverse and Equitable Construction Workforce Participation Committee to facilitate interagency collaboration on this work. It also identifies and encourages best practices for state agencies to encourage equitable workforce participation in construction, such as utilizing registered apprentices, hiring local businesses and those with a record of hiring women and underrepresented groups, and encouraging contractors to provide supportive services like childcare. The committee will also work with state agencies on data collection to measure the workforce participation of women and underrepresented groups.

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law legislation that supporters say would expand non-opioid pain treatments; establish licenses for recovery coaches; support pregnant women and their children who have been exposed to substances; and vastly expand access to opioid-reversal drugs.

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved a House-approved bill that would require that student ID cards include the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline phone numbers and text message numbers. 

Interested in a role helping to protect your community? Take the 2025 Police Officer Exam. Applications are being accepted through Tuesday, January 28.

Have you noticed sand barrels around your neighborhood? The City of Somerville Department of Public Works has distributed sand citywide for residential use.

The City’s Inspectional Services Department and the SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs invite community members to attend a virtual workshop about rodents on Thursday, January 9, from 5 to 6 p.m. online via Zoom.

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs, in collaboration with Saint Benedict Church, invite community members to a festive Three Kings Day celebration on Sunday, January 5, at the Prospect Hill Charter School cafeteria (17 Franklin St.) from noon to 3 p.m. 

The City of Somerville warmly invites community members to attend its Mid-Term Ceremonies and Addresses on Monday, January 6, in the City Hall Council Chamber (93 Highland Ave.). Speeches will begin at approximately at 5:30 p.m.

Obituary

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of David Elliott Denny from cancer on the morning of December 21, 2024. A Senior Design Engineer at Boston Water and Sewer Commission, David had an insatiable love for learning that led him to additional pursuits as a land surveyor, an enthusiastic volunteer for Habitat for Humanity (for which he was awarded a Golden Hammer), classes toward a nursing degree, and even occasional piano lessons.

Obituary

James K. Cafferky Jr., affectionately known as Jimmy, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024, in Medford. He was the beloved son of Carole J. Cafferky and the late James K. Cafferky Sr. Jimmy was a cherished brother to Carolyn Brosnan of Medford, Elizabeth Sudkin of Natick, Christopher Cafferky and his wife Erin of Medford, John Cafferky and his wife Traci of Winchester, Stephen Cafferky of Somerville, and Jennifer Cafferky of Somerville. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Otoni Nascimento is wanted for a home invasion. He has ties to Medford, Watertown, Somerville and Newton.

December 24th 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online

Petrosillo, Girolamo “Lee” -Of Winchester, Dec. 21st. Son of the late Orazio and Luigia Petrosillo. Loving brother of Rose Rinaldi and her husband Aldo of Rome, Italy, Cindy Petrosillo of Woburn, Marina Baldasaro of Malden, Maria Grazia Petrosillo of Medford, Ada Tauro- Sidoti and her husband David of Revere, Elizabeth Petrosillo and her fiancé John Sensi of Gardner and the late Carolina “Carla” Tauro and Annarita Petrosillo O’Keefe. Lee also leaves behind several loving aunts, uncles and cousins.
Lee was a huge Boston sports fan and you could often hear screams of excitement when his home team scored. He lived his life with such kindness, gentleness and helpfulness that it left an indelible mark on each of us. We had the profound honor of knowing Lee not just as a sibling, but as a confidante, a supporter and a beacon of light in the lives of everyone he touched. Lee was the kind of person who lived his values every day, He adored his mother and often found him helping her with everyday needs. Lee spent a lot of time with family, he loved attending all his nephew’s baseball games and his nephews loved seeing him there. Most of his nieces and nephews looked at him as their father figure. They will miss him the most.

Philip Lamb – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 20, 2024. He was 86 years old. 

By William Tauro

When is enough enough? January 20th can’t come soon enough when we will have common sense restored back into the White House.

Kamala Harris Faced Backlash as an old video clip of hers that resurfaced promoting ‘Wokeness’.

According to the Republic News Source “The resurfaced video from 2017 shows Kamala Harris urging Americans to “stay woke,” igniting a wave of criticism on social media. Conservative author James Lindsay and others have labeled her a “Communist functionary,” leading to intense backlash. The video has sparked public debate over the controversial topics discussed during the conference, including immigration and drug policies, raising questions about Harris’s stance on these issues in light of her current role as Vice President.”

By Bob Katzen

  “We have an opportunity to make our state the best place in the world for collaborative and responsible AI innovation. The Massachusetts AI Hub draws from our state’s existing strengths, including our unparalleled innovation ecosystem, world-class universities, highly skilled talent and revolutionary spirit, to advance transformative technologies and power economic opportunity for all.”

By Bob Katzen

-The House approved and sent to the Senate legislation waiving, for six years, until 2030, a law that requires businesses and groups to have a 35 percent participation rate in order to qualify for group auto and home insurance discount rates. The measure permits groups with less than the 35 percent participation to take advantage of group rates, which supporters say will save members between 5 percent and 8 percent. The law has been waived since 1997. The 35 percent requirement was first included in a 1973 law.

By Bob Katzen

The Registry of Motor Vehicles reminds Bay State residents that beginning on May 7, 2025, people traveling by plane domestically or entering certain federal facilities will need a Registry-issued REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID, or a valid passport. 

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House legislation that would allow organizations registered as blood establishments with the federal United States Food and Drug Administration, to maintain a blood bank if the bank is approved by the Massachusetts Commissioner of the Department of Public Health and the Public Health Council. 

By Bob Katzen

 The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a conference committee version of legislation that supporters say would expand non-opioid pain treatments; establish licenses for recovery coaches, support pregnant women and their children who have been exposed to substances; and vastly expand access to opioid-reversal drugs. The House and Senate had approved different versions of the legislation and a conference committee hammered out this compromise version.

By Bob Katzen

  Rep. Marc Lombardo (R-Billerica) announced his candidacy for House GOP Minority Leader. He is challenging current GOP Minority Leader Rep. Brad Jones (R-North Reading) who has been a representative for 30 years and has held the leadership post since 2002. Lombardo is a 14-year incumbent who first took office in 2011.

By Bob Katzen

 On February 26, 2024, the House gave initial approval to legislation designating February 4th as Rosa Parks Day, “in lasting recognition of a historic civil rights leader.”

By Bob Katzen

On February 22, 2024, the House gave initial approval to a proposal that would allow cities and towns to increase the current $300 maximum fine for parking illegally in a parking space reserved for persons with disabilities. That $300 fine is set by the state and goes into the municipalities’ General Fund. The measure would allow cities and towns to impose an additional $450 fine – making the total fine $750. The additional $450 would be placed into a specialized local account to be used for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) upgrades in the city or town where the violation occurred. The original $300 fine would still go into the community’s General Fund.

By Bob Katzen

 On February 15, 2024, the House gave initial approval to legislation that would eliminate the current state law requiring that all fortune telling applicants must have lived in the city or town in which they are seeking their license to practice for at least one continuous year prior to filing their application. 

By Bob Katzen

On February 12, 2024, the House gave initial approval to a bill that makes online sales of cars subject to the same law as if the sales were executed at the dealership’s physical place of business.

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) invite community members to attend an event presenting the completed reports from the Public Safety for All Task Force, Civilian Oversight Task Force, and Anti-Violence Working Group on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 (rain date February 6) at Somerville High School (81 Highland Ave) at 6:30 p.m.

Each task force, comprised of residents, subject matter experts, and City Council members, will highlight their findings and recommendations aimed at enhancing public safety and fostering stronger community connections across Somerville.

“Ensuring public safety in Somerville means listening to our community, embracing transparency, and working collaboratively toward meaningful change,” said Mayor Ballantyne. “I encourage all residents to join us on February 4 to hear directly from the dedicated members of our task forces and working group. Their reports reflect months of thoughtful engagement, research, and a shared commitment to making Somerville safer and more equitable for all.”  

Incoming City Council President & School Committee Chairperson Will Also Share Addresses with Community

SOMERVILLE – Join the City of Somerville for its Mid-Term Ceremonies and Addresses featuring Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, the incoming City Council President, and the incoming Chairperson of the Somerville School Committee.

Photo:(Patricia with her beloved husband David)

Obituary

Patricia Synnove Alger (nee Lodoen) has passed away at the age of 79.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, “Honey” was the daughter of the late George O.N. Lodoen and Ruth PerryLodoen. She spent most of her formative years in Alexandria, Virginia, and she was a proud graduate of Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Museum are inviting community members to commemorate an iconic moment in American history at the 249th Annual Prospect Hill Flag Raising on January 1, 2025. On this date in 1776, General George Washington raised the first American flag atop Prospect Hill, marking a pivotal moment in the Revolutionary War. Each New Year’s Day, the City honors this legacy with a community celebration. 

Releases New Program Name, EPA C-MORE (Construction Material Opportunities to Reduce Emissions) Program

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is calling for stakeholder input on draft technical documents for low embodied carbon construction materials and is sharing action plans for 2025. Newly renamed, EPA’s Construction Material Opportunities to Reduce Emissions (C-MORE) program is a multi-pronged approach to support U.S. manufacturers in lowering operating costs, achieving efficiencies and accessing new markets while helping federal purchasers and other buyers find and buy cleaner, more climate-friendly construction materials.

Reports from the Public Safety for All Task Force, Civilian Oversight Task Force, and the Anti-Violence Working Group will be Posted Online Starting Tuesday, January 28 

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) are inviting all to join a community event presenting the completed reports from the Public Safety for All Task Force, Civilian Oversight Task Force, and Anti-Violence Working Group on Tuesday, February 4, 2025  (rain date Thursday, February 6) at Somerville High School (81 Highland Ave).  

Today, Dec. 18, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that it will formally designate five known or probable carcinogens as High-Priority Substances (HPS) that will undergo a risk evaluation under the nation’s chemical safety law, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA): acetaldehyde, acrylonitrile, benzenamine, 4,4’-methylene bis(2-chloroaniline) (MBOCA) and vinyl chloride. EPA also announced the beginning of the 9- to 12-month statutory process to prioritize the next five chemicals under TSCA to determine whether to initiate risk evaluations on them: benzene, ethylbenzene, naphthalene, styrene and 4-tert-octylphenol.

Obituary

Espinal, Domingo R. -Of Somerville, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. He was 88 years old.Born and raised in the Dominican Republic, Domingo was the son of the late Rafael Urena and Ana J. Espinal.
 
Domingo was known for his hard work and dedication, always striving to provide the best for his beloved family. He was a proud father and grandfather who cherished the time spent with his loved ones, particularly his grandson, with whom he adored.
 
A man of many talents, Domingo had a natural skill with his hands and found great joy in woodworking. He also had a passion for photography and enjoyed sightseeing, often traveling to new places around the world to capture its beauty. Domingo took pride in his accomplishments and was always quick to share his joy with others, especially his family.
 
He leaves behind a legacy of love, determination, and creative spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
 
Beloved husband to the late Irma E. (Toran) Espinal. Devoted father of Eugene L. Espinal and his wife Patricia Gall of Somerville, and Therese A. Cann and her late husband Troy M. of Peabody. Loving grandfather of Trey M. Cann of Peabody. Cherished brother of Elva Espinal, Altagracia Espinal, Clemente Urena and his wife Margot, Octavio Espinal, Alfonzo Espinal, Ramon Espinal, Eladio Espinal, Antonio Espinal, Bartolo Espinal. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. 
 
Calling Hours will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville, on Friday, December 27th from 10:00AM to 12:00PM. Followed by a prayer service held in the funeral home at 12:00PM. 
 
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. 

Adams, Deborah E. – Of Stoneham, passed away on Monday, December 16, 2024, at Winchester Hospital, after a brief illness. She was 72 years old.
 
Born in Melrose, Deborah was the daughter of the late John and Katherine (Pietela) Shea. She was a cherished member of the American Legion, Reading Post 62. Deborah had a passion for finding a great deal and was a regular at local flea markets, where she enjoyed hunting for treasures. She was known for her love of cooking, often preparing delicious meals and baking homemade goods for her family and friends. Above all, Deborah’s greatest joy came from spending time with her beloved family, especially her grandchildren, with whom she shared countless treasured moments.

Park on the Even Side During Winter 2024-2025 Snow Emergencies, Unless Otherwise Posted 

SOMERVILLE– The City of Somerville is encouraging the community to get ready now for potential snowstorms by signing up for City Alerts and reviewing protocols for snow emergencies. Preparing now will help keep the community safe, as well as reduce ticketing or towing for snow emergency parking violations and ticketing for failure to follow shoveling requirements. 

All information below can also be found atsomervillema.gov/snow.  

Alerts 

Obituary

Mrs. Edith M. “Edie” Nickerson, of Somerville, passed away on December 16, 2024, she was 85 years old. Born in Medford, she was raised in Arlington, daughter of Elaine (Karahalis) and Arthur J. Larson. Former wife of the late Robert D. Nickerson. Growing up, she was affectionately known as “Honey”.

Edith is the devoted mother of Michele Campbell and her late husband Daniel W. Campbell and Stephanie Nickerson, all of Somerville. She is the cherished “Grandma” and “Gummy” of David Herald and his wife Jennifer, Jonathan Herald and his wife Alison, Christopher Herald and his wife Maureen, Alexander Herald and his wife Christina, Timothy Herald and Sydney Nickerson. Great-Grandma of Nicholas, Elisa, Abigail, Matthew, Joshua and Benjamin Herald. Sister of the late Gregory Larson and Arthur Larson, Jr.
 
Aside from being a loving mother and grandmother, Edie was a certified nursing assistant devoted to her many patients. She began working for the Somerville Visiting Nurses Association and then Cambridge Homes, before her retirement from Cadbury Commons. In earlier years, she served as leader of the Girl Scouts at St. Catherine Church and enjoyed painting and had a love of crocheting. She also tried her luck during many trips to the casinos, above all Edith loved spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
 
In keeping with Edie’s wishes, a private burial will take place at a later date.

Obituary

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Matthew Gaudet, a beloved son, brother, and friend, who passed away on November 22, 2024, at the young age of 47.
 
Born in Cambridge, raised in Somerville, Matthew’s love for travel took him to many corners of the world, but none more special than London, England. For Matthew, London was a second home; a place where he always felt at peace. Whether exploring the bustling streets with his loving friends or simply enjoying a quiet moment, the city captured his heart in a way few places ever did.
 
At home, Matthew was an enthusiastic supporter of local eateries, with a special fondness for Leone’s, where he could always be found enjoying a good meal and sharing laughs with his close family friends, Nick and all the staff. His love for food was matched only by his love for good company and even better conversation.
 
When not out exploring the world or savoring local dishes, Matthew could often be found at home, curled up with his beloved cat, Gracie. He enjoyed quiet evenings watching movies or engaging in a spirited game of Cards Against Humanity. Always the jokester, Matthew loved making others laugh, especially when playing pranks on his sisters, his favorite target for playful humor. His sense of humor, quick wit, and contagious laughter were a constant source of joy to all who knew him. On Halloween, Matthew enjoyed showing up to his desk at Harvard University fully dressed up in a costume to make his Harvard family laugh.

Stealing Somerville Makes the Perfect Christmas Gift!🎄 Stealing Somerville: The Death of an Urban City
https://a.co/d/61uxRgP

Click on link below to read December 17th 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online December 17th 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading December 17th 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Expanding our mountain biking trail system will create destinations that connect visitors to our rural communities and the mountains and forests that surround them. It is without a doubt, that investing in accessible outdoor recreation is beneficial not only for our state’s regional economies but also for our health.”
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Massachusetts will receive more than $55 million to purchase more than 200 zero-emission vehicles through its first-ever Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program.
Continue reading BAY STATE TO GET MORE THAN $55 MILLION FOR ZERO EMISSION VEHICLES →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a new version of legislation, originally sponsored by Gov. Maura Healey, that would prevent commercial drivers from losing their licenses due to passenger vehicle offenses they committed prior to September 30, 2005. Continue reading COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSES (H 5139) →

By Bob Katzen

Twenty-two newly elected state legislators, including 19 representatives-elect and three senators-elect, attended the biennial New Legislator Academy at UMass Amherst, which Senate President Karen Spilka’s office has described as “an opportunity for newly elected legislators to become familiar with experiences that they will encounter in the Legislature.” Continue reading FRESHMAN ORIENTATION – BACK TO SCHOOL →

By Bob Katzen

On October 26, 2023, the Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would allow pharmacists to prescribe, dispense and administer a short-term supply (60-days once in a two-year period) of HIV prevention drugs, known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), to a patient without a prescription.
Continue reading HIV PREVENTION DRUGS (S 2480) →

By Bob Katzen

On October 26, 2023, the Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would require all prisons, homeless shelters and K-12 schools to maintain free menstrual products, including sanitary napkins, tampons and underwear liners in private and public restrooms and to make them available in a “convenient manner that does not stigmatize any persons seeking the products.”
Continue reading MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS (S 2491) →

By Bob Katzen

On July 27, 2023, the Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House legislation that would make it easier for homeless youth and adults to secure free state ID cards.
Continue reading MAKE OBTAINING ID CARDS EASIER FOR HOMELESS PERSONS (S 2251) →

Obituary
Rose M. Marinello, who passed away at home in Somerville, on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the age of 94. Rose was born in Watertown, MA, to the late Antonio and Jennie (Donato) Scaltreto, and spent her life dedicated to the love and care of her family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rose M. Marinello →

Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Daniel Joseph MacInnes, beloved son of Ernest MacInnes of Somerville and the late Irene (Chartrand) MacInnes. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel Joseph MacInnes →

Center Provides Hot Meals, Bathrooms, and Safe Sleeping Spaces for Residents Experiencing Homelessness

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, together with the Somerville Office of Health and Human Services (HHS), is announcing the opening of the 2025 Overnight Warming Center to support adults experiencing homelessness. Continue reading Somerville Opens Overnight Warming Center for 2025 Winter Season →

Significant step forward moves school building planning into next phase

SOMERVILLE– The City’s work to deliver a state-of-the-art school project for Somerville students
is moving into the next phase in the state’s school building funding process. This afternoon, the Massachusetts School Building Authority’s (MSBA) Board of Directors voted to move Somerville’s project forward. The vote by the MSBA Board is a required step
that occurs at several points throughout the multi-year process. Continue reading State Advances Somerville’s Funding Proposal for New PK-8 School Building →

Obituary
Camille A. Moretti, a longtime Somerville resident, passed away at her home on December 12, 2024, she was 88 years old. Born in Boston, she was the daughter of Henrietta (Castana) and Samuel Moretti. Camille was the devoted mother of the late Albert Moretti, who passed away in 2015. Dear sister of the late Mary Cataldo and Patrick Moretti. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Camille A. Moretti →

SOMERVILLE, MA — Councilor-At-Large Jake Wilson is launching a campaign for mayor in the 2025 Somerville municipal election. A two-term Councilor-At-Large, Wilson is looking to bring accessible, collaborative, and decisive leadership to the job.

SOMERVILLE_On Thursday, December 12th, Somerville Kiwanis Club members were joined by our good friends from the Somerville Rotary Club and Somerville Lions Club for our annual Toys For Tots luncheon meeting. Three members of the Marine Corps joined us for this special tri-club meeting. Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Donate Hundreds of Toys to Toys For Tots Program →

Rocco DiRenzo, age 82, of Medford passed away on Monday, December 9th. Born and raised in Lettomanopello, Italy, he was the son of the late Bartalomeo and Filomena (D’Alfonzo) DiRenzo. Rocco immigrated to the United States in 1965, settling first in Cambridge. Years later he and his family moved to Medford, where he lived for 50 years.

We are excited to congratulate our newest detective, Patrick Doherty. Detective Doherty has been a dedicated member of our department for over a decade. His commitment to public service and proven track record make him a welcome addition to our detective division. We know Detective Doherty will continue to work tirelessly to protect and serve the citizens of Medford with the same passion and integrity that has defined his career thus far.

December 10th 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 2nd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
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“On Air with Billy Tauro” Episode 2. Nothing ever filtered, nothing ever watered-down, just the plain true facts! Enjoy!
https://youtu.be/m4u5uzr8vCY

By Bob Katzen

“As soon as we heard the news about Trump’s election, it really sent huge shockwaves through immigrant communities. We heard in the days following the election just so much fear. People are afraid of what’s coming. They’re afraid, for some folks, that they could lose a status, that they could be at risk for being arrested, potentially detained, potentially deported and could be facing family separation.
— Elizabeth Sweet, executive director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition (MIRA), in an interview with the State House News Service.

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Campaign for Single Payer Health Care (Mass-Care) announced the official results of its Question 6 (or 7), depending on the district, which was on the November ballot in eleven state representative districts. The question was approved in all eleven districts with an average Yes vote of 64 percent.

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey announced that that Luisa Sparrow, a special education teacher for fifth- and sixth-grade students at the Oliver Hazard Perry School in South Boston, is the 2025 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year.

By Bob Katzen

The Healey Administration announced more than $5 million in grants to protect forest land which will be managed as reserves. These projects are designed to fight climate change and allow forests to mature, strengthening how these habitats store carbon. The grant program, a result of the Forest as Climate Solutions Initiative, aims to designate 10 percent of Massachusetts forests as reserves, where active management is limited and natural processes play out.

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Clean Water Trust approved $294.8 million in new low-interest loans and grants to help communities build or replace water infrastructure that enhances ground and surface water resources.

By Bob Katzen

The Senate adopted and sent to the House a Gov. Healey amendment changing the effective date of a new law that increases the minimum amount of liability auto insurance a driver must purchase, from $5,000 for property damage to $30,000; and for bodily injury from $20,000 per person/$40,000 per accident to $25,000/$50,000. The law approved by the Legislature was scheduled to take effect immediately. Healy’s amendment would delay the effective date to July 1, 2025.

By Bob Katzen

State Auditor Diana DiZoglio sent a letter last week to top Beacon Hill Democrats, including House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy) and Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland), demanding that they comply with her plans for an audit of the Legislature. DiZoglio’s letter comes after voters in November approved Ballot Question 1 asking them if they favor allowing the state auditor to audit the Legislature.

By Bob Katzen

House 134-24, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of the $300,000 for a reserve fund for the UMass Center in Springfield, a satellite of UMass Amherst, where academic programming is offered.

By Bob Katzen

House 154-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $3 million (reducing funding from $8 million to $5 million) for a program that provides professional development and higher education opportunities and supports for statewide recruitment and training needs of early educators.

Obituary

Mrs. Emilienne Jules passed away peacefully at her Cambridge apartment, surrounded by the love of her family, on November 29, 2024, at the remarkable age of 106. Born and raised in Léogâne, Haiti, she was the beloved daughter of the late Jean Baptiste Jules, an Episcopalian priest, and Ogenia B. Jules. Her deep faith and selfless spirit, a beacon of inspiration, defined her extraordinary life as a mother, grandmother, and avid servant of God.

A woman of boundless hospitality and kindness, she touched the lives of countless family members and friends. Her home was a sanctuary for all who entered, offering warm meals, a welcoming bed, and a steadfast spirit of love and support. No one ever left her home without a heartfelt benediction prayer, a testament to her unwavering faith, a source of strength and comfort, and care for others. While in Haiti, Emilienne gave birth to John (also known as Edner), a set of twin girls, who soon passed away after birth, a second set of twins where one of the boys passed, but her son Joseph Bellony Loseil of Florida survived, then a third set of twins, her late son Yvon, and his twin sister Yvette.

SOMERVILLE – Are you passionate about community engagement and civic responsibility? The Mayor’s Appointments Advisory Committee (AAC) is seeking two volunteers to join its efforts in ensuring fair, informed, and nonpartisan recommendations for appointments to Somerville’s regulatory and decision-making boards and commissions.

Obituary

Nancy (Tuccio) McCarron, formerly of Everett, Somerville and Boston’s North End, passed away after a long courageous battle with cancer on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. She was 68 years old. The cherished daughter of the late Vincenzo and Italia (Sarno) Tuccio, Nancy and her siblings were born in Belgium. Then, in 1958 the family immigrated to the US and settled in Boston’s North End.
 
The beloved wife of 49 years to James McCarron, Nancy and Jim were married in St. Leonard’s Church and then moved to Somerville to begin a family of their own and later settled in Everett. Nancy will be remembered as a kind, energetic woman who had a great sense of humor. She loved to laugh. She enjoyed tending to the flowers and plants in her garden and loved music, especially disco and dancing.  For over 20 years, Nancy worked as a documents clerk at the South Middlesex Country Registry of Deeds in Cambridge. Above all, she loved nothing more than time spent with her family.
 
In addition to her beloved husband James, Nancy was the devoted mother of Dina McCarron and James V. McCarron and proud grandmother of Brendan McCarron. Cherished sister of Maria Mancini and her husband Raffaele, and the late Alessio Tuccio. Dear cousin of Anna Gaeta and her husband Anthony, Joseph Gaeta, and Maria Gaeta. Also survived by her loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and friends.
 
A prayer service will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville on Tuesday, December 10th at 11:00AM.
 
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.
 
Calling hours will be held on Monday, December 9th from 4:00PM to 7:00PM.
 
Services will conclude with interment at Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.

SOMERVILLE–All interested community members are invited to attend and speak at a virtual Public Hearing before the Somerville City Council’s Finance Committee on Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m. online via Zoom. The meeting agenda and link to join are posted at somervillema.legistar.com. 

Community members will have the opportunity to provide input on the draft plan developed via community process. It proposes plans for how to best preserve and envision a future for the Armory building, located at 191 Highland Ave., as a thriving community arts center for years to come. 

Obituary

Marlene F. (Pitcher) Smithers, a lifelong Somerville resident, passed away on December 6, 2024, she was 82. Born and raised in Somerville, she was the daughter of the late Marion (Logan) and Russell Pitcher. Marlene owned and operated her own Insurance Agency for many years, the Marlene Smithers Insurance Company in Ball Square and Broadway.
 
She was the devoted mother of Marnie Smithers and her husband Richard Bertheim and Melanie Smithers. Cherished grandmother of Chanel Powers and the late Michael John Smithers and sister of Russelyne Robbins.
 
A graveside service will be held for Marlene at Oak Grove Cemetery, 230 Playstead Road, Medford on Tuesday afternoon, December 10th at 1:30PM. Relatives and friends invited to attend and are asked to meet inside the main gate by 1:15PM.

Shots Fired
24075186: On 12/2/24 at approximately 9:46 PM, Somerville Police responded to 500 Mystic Ave for a report of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers observed a vehicle with ballistic damage and located three shell casings nearby. No injuries were reported. Investigation is ongoing.

It’s Not Too Latel To Get Your Holiday Lights Installed NewEnglandLightingPartners.com 877-521-3522

SOMERVILLE – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan has announced that three former bank employees, Yeimaly Moscat, 23, of Boston, Yojairis Suazo, 21, of Boston and Angelica Morales, 31, of Mattapan, have been charged after allegedly stealing money from customers’ accounts by processing unauthorized withdrawals at three different Citizens Bank branches. 

The end of an era ,thank you to all my customers

Obituary

Marie E Howe – Of Malden formerly of Somerville December 2, 2024.  

As Massachusetts completes the celebration of Irish American Heritage Month and Women’s History Month in March, here’s a special shout-out to former Massachusetts State Representative Marie E. Howe, a notable Irish-American woman. 

Click on link below to read December 3rd 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading December 3rd 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

George E. Thomas Jr., of Boxborough, formerly of Cambridge, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at the age of 72.
Devoted husband of Candace Maddalo-Thomas.
Loving father of Cori Azevedo, Rebecca Maddalo and Heather Thomas. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering George E. Thomas Jr →

By Bob Katzen

“Since launching our Office of Outdoor Recreation, we have made it our mission to ensure that the outdoors is accessible and inclusive to everyone. Our approach is fueling local economies and empowering communities and organizations. This report demonstrates that we can drive business growth and foster connections with our natural resources at the same time.”
—Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper on new figures from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis reporting the significant expansion of Massachusetts’ outdoor recreation economy which generated $13.2 billion in value added to the state’s economy in 2023 and created 103,600 jobs.

By Bob Katzen

The Governor’s Council certified the results of the election of Massachusetts’s eleven electors for the offices of U.S. president and vice-president. All 50 states have to certify their votes in the federal election and send them to Congress to be counted before the Electoral College gathers on December 17 to cast their state’s electoral votes to make President-elect Donald Trump’s victory official.

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey announced that the state awarded $3.8 million in state and federal funds to support state, local and nonprofit agencies working to combat intimate partner violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and stalking.

By Bob Katzen

State Auditor Diana DiZoglio released the results of an audit of the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC), reviewing the period from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2022.EEC, which licenses approximately 9,000 childcare-related programs that support an average of 55,000 children daily, has responsibilities including providing financial assistance for childcare services to families with low incomes, providing parenting support to families and providing professional development opportunities to employees in the field of early education and care.

The audit’s findings include charges that EEC did not conduct licensing visits to residential programs within the required timeframes. The report noted that EEC cannot ensure that its residential programs operate within safe and healthy environments if it does not complete licensing visits within the required period.

By Bob Katzen

Attorney General Andrea Campbell announced that her office has issued citations totaling more than $2 million against Northeast Foods LLC, a company which operates dozens of Burger King franchise locations across the Bay State, for violating various state employment laws, including child labor laws. The citations include restitution for unpaid wages and penalties.

By Bob Katzen

A trio of legislators announced they plan to co-sponsor legislation aimed at eventually ending the sale of all nicotine and tobacco products in the Bay State. Sen. Jason Lewis (D-Winchester) and Reps. Tommy Vitolo (D-Brookline) and Kate Lipper-Garabedian (D-Melrose) said they will file the bill for consideration in the 2025-2026 legislative session.

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 4-34, rejected an amendment that would require a unanimous vote for the Senate to continue any session beyond midnight. Current Senate rules require a two-thirds vote to go beyond midnight.

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 4-34, rejected an amendment that would require a two-thirds vote for the Senate to continue any session beyond 10 p.m. and continue the session until midnight. This would be in addition to a current Senate rule that requires a two-thirds vote to continue a session beyond 8 p.m. and a two-thirds vote to continue a session beyond midnight.

Community members invited to informational meetings in December and January to learn about Networked Geothermal Technology 

SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville’s Office of Sustainability and Environment (OSE) are inviting community members to help the City assess the feasibility of a networked geothermal loop in Somerville. 

City supporting two local holiday gift drives for children and teens 

SOMERVILLE—Mayor Katjana Ballantyne announces the City’s annual support of local holiday gift and toy donation drives. In the giving spirit of the season, the City is placing toy and gift donation collection boxes at City buildings, libraries, and firehouses from Tuesday, December 3, through Wednesday, December 18. Donated gifts will support two community gift drives for families in need of gifts for children and teens this holiday season.  

Julia A. Faherty, of Medford and formerly of Somerville, passed away on November 29, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Greeting post Gobble Day!  The hooplah is shortly gone and events begin.  Fun and spiritual.  I had the pleasure of having an overdue coffee with my friend and talented woman Elizabeth “Betsy” Pesce of Medford. She has a known image here for many who attended St.Joseph Church for years with her Chorale Directorship…and the Popular October Concert there. And always poised, groomed to go and friendly.  

By William Tauro 

I’ve been telling this story of political corruption since 2017 of what has been going on in the City of Somerville via my news articles as well as in my book “Stealing Somerville death of an urban city!” 

The Curtatone administration since 2017 has continuously painted me as a liar fabricating all the stories, but sure enough every one of my stories have been proven to be true and here we are now with evidence through testimony in Boston Federal Court that majority of police investigations through the former Somerville Police Captain Dan Cotter were mostly falsified and/or were incomplete. 

By William Tauro

These days in Somerville there are current and former police officers, defendants, plaintiffs and victims who have ever been suspended, terminated, prosecuted and/or falsely adjudicated of just by anyone that was affected in any form of investigations that was handled by former Somerville Police Captain Dan Cotter a.k.a. “Captain Cover-Up.”

All that who have automatically became victims by any and all cases from investigations that were handled under former Captain Cotter are lawyering up in numbers and taking action against the City of Somerville. The city is actively in panic over the testimony of former Somerville Police Captain Dan Cotter in Federal Court this past October as he took the stand under subpoena and was trampled on by attorneys questioning him before a jury.