SOMERVILLE_On Thursday, June 5th, one of our most gratifying meetings of our year was held at the Burren Restaurant and Pub in Davis Square. Our annual scholarship awards meeting was held to celebrate and award twelve amazing Somerville High School graduates with a $1000 scholarship each. Eleven of the twelve graduates were able to join us for today’s meeting. Continue reading Kiwanis Club of Somerville News Updates →

By William Tauro

Rat infestations continue to plague Massachusetts communities, frustrating residents and raising questions about whether elected officials are tackling the issue effectively. My take: while some cities are stepping up, efforts often lack the scale and consistency needed to curb this growing problem. Continue reading Rats Persist in Somerville and Other Local Communities: Are Officials Doing Enough? →

By William Tauro

The Blue Envelope Helps Bridge the Gap Between Police and People on the Autism Spectrum

The Blue Envelope Program is a transformative initiative designed to foster safer and more empathetic interactions between law enforcement and drivers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) during traffic stops. Recognizing that traffic stops can be particularly stressful for individuals with ASD due to sensory sensitivities and communication challenges, this program provides a simple yet effective tool to enhance understanding and reduce anxiety for both drivers and officers.
Continue reading Blue Envelope Program: Bridging the Gap Between Police and Drivers on the Autism Spectrum →

”You’re invited to join Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 3 City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen, and the City of Somerville’s Dept. of Veterans’ Services and PSUF Division for the groundbreaking for the Korean War and Vietnam War Memorials Restoration Project on Tuesday, June 10 from 1-2pm. This program is free and open to the public. We hope to see you there! Continue reading groundbreaking for the Korean War and Vietnam War Memorials Restoration Project →

By William Tauro

In Somerville, Massachusetts, a 21-year-old Whole Foods employee, Eric Illouz, was arrested on March 30, 2025, for allegedly assaulting a panhandler with a knife at Assembly Row. Reports indicate Illouz, reacting to a perceived threat, grabbed the panhandler and held a knife to their throat. Does that make it right? Continue reading Should We Sympathize with Somerville’s Arrested Worker Amid Homeless Crackdown? →

By William Tauro

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) continues its mission to reduce federal spending and streamline government operations despite Elon Musk’s departure on May 27, 2025. Amy Gleason is the acting administrator, supported by House Speaker Mike Johnson, who is pushing legislation to codify DOGE’s efforts. Continue reading Is The D.O.G.E. Honeymoon Over? →