October 20th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online October 20th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (4)

Shaped by community input, the project aims to make sections of Broadway safer and transform the Magoun Square intersection.

SOMERVILLE–The City of Somerville is planning to redesign Broadway between Winchester Street and Central Street to increase safety, improve accessibility, reduce congestion, and create a more comfortable street for everyone.
Continue reading Somerville Set to Release Updated Plans for Broadway Magoun Reconstruction Project at November 4 Open House →

Cindy Linardy Obituary

Cindy L. Linardy, a retired clerk for Tofia’s, passed away on October 9th, at the age of 60. Cindy was born in Cambridge MA in 1966, the daughter of Robert Dolson and Ruth Almeida, She was raised and educated in Cambridge, graduating from Cambrige Ringe and Latin in 1984. Continue reading Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering Cindy L. Linardy →

By Bob Katzen

“Every day, police officers across Massachusetts answer the call to serve, often facing extraordinary risks to protect our communities. Today, we recognize 18 officers whose bravery and selflessness went far beyond the call of duty. Their actions represent the very best of public service and the same commitment to protecting others that defined Trooper George Hanna’s life.”
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The Healey Administration today announced the awarding of $1.75 million in new funding to help Massachusetts schools protect students from the harmful impacts of social media and teach young people how to navigate the online world safely and responsibly. The grants are designed to support schools in educating students about online safety, cyberbullying, protecting their personal information, recognizing misinformation and making healthy choices about social media use.
Continue reading $1.75 MILLION TO PROTECT STUDENTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA →

By Bob Katzen

Massachusetts was awarded $142 million by the federal government to fund the state’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

“No family in Massachusetts should have to choose between heating their home and affording groceries or medicine,” said U.S. Representative Lori Trahan. “With heating oil prices up nearly 75 percent from last year, that choice is becoming a reality for far too many households. Releasing these funds early will help families prepare for the winter ahead. Continue reading $142 MILLION FOR HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE →

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) announced more than $2 million for the Climate Smart Agriculture Grant Program (CSAP) to help 68 Massachusetts farms and agricultural businesses buy new equipment, upgrade buildings and install clean energy systems that cut costs and boost productivity. The grants are designed to support 78 projects to improve food safety, reduce energy costs, protect natural resources and strengthen the long-term sustainability and resilience of Massachusetts agriculture.
Continue reading $2 MILLION FOR FARMS AND AGRICULTURAL BUSINESSES →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House legislation designating October 15 as Lobular Breast Cancer Awareness Day to promote awareness about the disease, stimulate related research efforts and recommending that the day be observed in an appropriate manner by the people.
Continue reading LOBULAR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS DAY (S 2666) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved, on a voice vote without a roll call, a bill mandating free insurance coverage of cancer screenings for firefighters. The firefighters would not be subject to co-payment, deductible, coinsurance or any out-of-pocket expenses. The House approved a different version of the measure in July and the Senate version now goes to the House for consideration.

Continue reading FIREFIGHTERS AND CANCER SCREENINGS (S 3284) →

Reminders for voter registration, vote-by-mail, and absentee ballot application deadlines

SOMERVILLE—Make your voice heard, on your schedule. Early voting for the Massachusetts State Election begins this weekend from Saturday, October 17, to Friday, October 30, at City Hall (93 Highland Ave.).
Continue reading Vote Early in the State Election at City Hall Oct. 17-30 →

Carol L. Van Stry – Of Holbrook, formerly of Saugus and Medford, passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026. She was 18 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Carol L. Van Stry →

Lorraine DeAmato, 74, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2026, following a brief but courageous battle with lung cancer.

Born on December 28, 1951, in Boston, MA, Lorraine was the beloved daughter of the late Ralph DeAmato and Elena (Perracchi) DeAmato.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lorraine DeAmato →

John H. Curley, Jr., of Everett and formerly of Somerville, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2026, at the age of 78. Born in Somerville, the oldest of six children, son of the late Margaret (DiBase) and John H. Curley, Sr.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John H. Curley, Jr →

Patricia Bavin of Somerville passed away peacefully on October 15, 2026. She was the cherished daughter of the late William and Lucille (Conley) Bavin. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia Bavin →

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

Sources confirm that on Saturday October 17 2026 a multiple vehicle accident in New Bedford, was the result of Shaun Oliver, candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts, losing control of his vehicle after attending a political gathering. His vehicle had overturned and struck several unoccupied vehicles parked along the crowded street. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: SHAWN OLIVER ARRESTED, CANDIDATE FOR MASS. LT. GOV, ARRESTED ON OUI, SPEEDING CHARGES →

Somerville Fire Department At 9:35 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, the Somerville Fire Department responded to a fire alarm at the Massachusetts Bay Veterans Center located at 2 North Street. Continue reading Somerville Fire Department responded to a fire alarm at the Massachusetts Bay Veterans Center →

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October 13th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online October 13th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

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

Your thoughts?

1)Are you for of against this execution by firing squad?

2) Are you for or against it being livestreamed?

Pentagon Confirms Livestream of Firing Squad Execution Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: The Execution of Nidal Hasan →

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

Honk Is Inconsiderate

A whole weekend of loud brass and shitty megaphones is incredibly irritating for anyone who lives nearby. It’s a ridiculous idea to have a super loud 3 day long musical event in a largely residential area. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Honk Is Inconsiderate →

On Monday, October 12 at 9:58 p.m., the Somerville Fire Department responded to a report of smoke coming from the one-story commercial building located at 129-131 Broadway.
Continue reading 5 Alarm Fire On Broadway Somerville →

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is offering free COVID-19 and flu vaccine clinics at locations across the city this fall to help community members protect their health. Appointments are strongly encouraged, and walk-up availability is limited. Information on upcoming clinics scheduled for October and November can be found below.
Continue reading Free COVID-19 and Flu Vaccine Clinics in Somerville this Fall →

Street will be transformed into walk- and bike-friendly “neighborway” as part of Elm-Beacon Connector safety project

SOMERVILLE – Beginning Thursday, October 15, Mossland St. will be closed to motor vehicles at its intersection with Elm Street. Going forward, motor vehicles accessing Mossland St. will need to enter and exit via Somerville Ave.
Continue reading New Traffic Pattern – Mossland Street at Elm Street Becoming a Dead-End, Thursday, October 15 →

Betty J Levin
“The First Lady of Real Estate”

Betty J. Levin—a larger-than-life personality, devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, legendary real estate professional, traveler, dancer, wine lover, and lifelong learner—passed away on October 12, 2026, entirely on her own terms and in a way that was quintessentially Betty. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Betty J Levin →

By Bob Katzen

“To be successful in their mission, a cultural organization needs an effective space to do their work. Through these investments, we are helping organizations address real facility needs, welcome more people through their doors and ensure that communities across Massachusetts continue to have places to gather, create, learn and connect.”
— David Slatery, Executive Director of the Mass Cultural Council, announcing that four nonprofit cultural facilities will receive a combined total of $706,000 to help them remain in a state of good repair.
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Another bill tied up in committee would allow cities and towns to hike from the current $1,500 to $2,000, the property tax break for veterans and spouses of deceased or disabled veterans in exchange for their providing volunteer services to their municipality. In February, the House, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave initial approval to this bill that has already been approved by the Senate.
Continue reading INCREASE TAX RELIEF TO VETERANS (S 1948) →

By Bob Katzen
The House in February gave initial approval to, without a roll call vote, a proposal that would allow the city council, town meeting or other equivalent city or town legislative body to change the interest rate on unpaid real estate property or personal property tax bills from the current 14 percent to “up to 14 percent.” The measure also allows the local tax collector or treasurer to waive interest fees on late payments and to set up a payment plan with the person who owes the unpaid balances.
Continue reading INTEREST RATE ON UNPAID PROPERTY TAXES (H 3238) →

By Bob Katzen

A new poll shows 84 percent of Massachusetts voters support eliminating the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse, and that 67 percent say this should be a high priority for legislators. The poll was conducted for and released by the Bay State-based organization Enough Abuse, the nation’s oldest citizen-based child advocacy organization.
Continue reading ELIMINATE THE STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE →

By Bob Katzen

The CCC kicked off a multimedia initiative to mark ten years of adult-use cannabis in Massachusetts. The commission offers insights into how the industry has become an economic force with hundreds of businesses that employ tens of thousands and has generated nearly $2 billion in state and local tax revenue. The initiative will include a dedicated webpage featuring economic data and a video capturing the highlights of the industry over the last decade. The public will also be able to view initiative materials via the agency’s Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and X pages.
Continue reading CANNABIS CONTROL COMMISSION (CCC) CELEBRATES TEN YEARS OF ADULT USE OF CANNABIS →

By Bob Katzen

The Healey Administration announced grants of $403,500 to six Massachusetts agricultural organizations to promote specialty crops to help local farms and producers bring more fresh fruits, dried fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, horticulture and nursery crops, including floriculture, to market. The measure is designed to help these local farms reach new customers and grow their businesses across the state.
Continue reading $403,500 TO PROMOTE SPECIALTY CROPS →

A bill sponsored by Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northampton) would designate the second Monday in October, now known as Columbus Day, as Indigenous Peoples Day and recommend appropriate exercises in schools to acknowledge the history of genocide and discrimination against Indigenous people. Rep. Christine Barber (D-Somerville) filed the same bill in the House. Both bills are tired up in committee and have yet to reach the House or Senate floor for debate and a vote. The measure met the same fate in the 2021-2022 and 2023-2024 Legislature.
Continue reading RENAME COLUMBUS DAY (S 2113/H 3292) →

Last week I had the nice presence at a meeting with Candidate Deaton. You know he is running (R) against Senator Markey. We met in Malden after he spoke and took questions. I alert ALL VOTERS to go and hear candidates. At least, read about their history, acts, goals. With some
Serious issues at stake like the growing of BIG GOVT (FREE ITEMS. UGH) info is important.
REAL INFO. Continue reading “Meeting Candidate Deaton” →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Antonino Grieco

Antonino Grieco – Of Somerville, and affectionately known as Tony to many, passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026. He was 80 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Antonino Grieco →

Patricia A. (Gavin) Sullivan devoted wife of the late Daniel F. Sullivan Jr., passed away surrounded by the love of her family on October 4, 2026.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia A. (Gavin) Sullivan →

For those who follow along, the special elections for the soon to be vacant City Councilor seats in Wards 2 and 3, the elections folk have set the dates. Nomination papers will be available for candidates on November 16 at City Hall/ Elections Office.

Continue reading Somerville Special Election – Dates →

October 9, 2026 – (SOMERVILLE, MA) – During the week of October 26, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) will conduct a Tiered Focused Monitoring Review of Somerville Public Schools. DESE reviews each district’s and charter school’s ELE program every six years to monitor compliance with federal and state English learner education laws and regulations.
Continue reading Somerville Public Schools to Participate in DESE English Learner Program Review →

October 6th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online October 6th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

By Bob Katzen

“We have repeatedly tried to get Mass General Brigham to negotiate and avoid a second strike, but the billionaires who run MGB have shut the door on us. There is still time to reach an agreement that protects patient care and respects nurses. MGB needs to come back to the table and negotiate without preconditions.”
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Legislation that would require any State Department of Transportation (DOT) highway employees who find deceased dogs or cats on roads with identification, to either attempt to directly contact the owner or to notify local animal control officers or the police department, was given initial approval by the House in February. Continue reading DECEASED ANIMALS ON STATE HIGHWAYS (H 3678) →

By Bob Katzen

House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy) was non-committal but pessimistic about whether the House will approve one of the pending proposals to suspend the state’s 24-cent-per-gallon gas tax.
Continue reading SUSPEND THE GAS TAX →

By Bob Katzen

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell released a report detailing the findings of her office’s investigation into child sexual abuse in the Catholic Dioceses of Fall River, Springfield and Worcester. Continue reading CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN FALL RIVER, SPRINGFIELD AND WORCESTER CATHOLIC DICOCESES →

State Auditor Diana DiZoglio’s Bureau of Special Investigations revealed that it has flagged $10.6 million in public benefit fraud in the second half of fiscal year 2026.
Continue reading STATE AUDITOR DIZOGLIO UNCOVERS $10.6 MILLION IN PUBLIC BENEFITS FRAUD →

QUESTION 3: ELIMINATE POLITICAL PARTY PRIMARIES FOR STATE ELECTIONS AND INSTEAD ESTABLISH A SINGLE, ALL-PARTY PRIMARY. SEVERAL STATES ALREADY HAVE THIS ALL-PARTY PRIMARY SYSTEM WHICH HAS EARNED THE NICKNAME “JUNGLE PRIMARY.”
Continue reading BALLOT QUESTION 3 – Here is a look at Question 3: →

MAHONEY, JAMES FRANCIS – 80, of Somerville passed away peacefully on September 29, 2026 following a brief illness. Jimmy was born, and raised, in Somerville and was the son of the late John and Dorothy (Kelleher)Mahoney.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering MAHONEY, JAMES FRANCIS →

Stephen T. Wright – A life long resident of Somerville, passed away at his home on Saturday, September 26, 2026. He was 66 years old.

Born in Everett and raised and educated in Somerville, he was the beloved son of the late Rose J. (Foley) and John F. Wright.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Stephen T. Wright →

Community members encouraged to donate to support 43 residents displaced by September 30 fire

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville and Somerville Homeless Coalition have activated the Emergency Displacement Fund to support residents displaced by the September 30 five-alarm fire in Teele Square.
Continue reading Emergency Fund Activated for Residents Displaced by Teele Square Fire →

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is inviting all community members to honor Italian American Heritage Month with an Italian flag raising on Thursday, October 15 at 5 p.m. on the City Hall concourse (93 Highland Ave.).
Continue reading Honor Italian American Heritage Month at City Hall Flag Raising →

Eleanor M. Mitrano (Fustolo) of Arlington passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late Vincent Mitrano and a devoted mother to Frank Mitrano of Arlington, the late Vincent Mitrano, and Roseann Mitrano. Eleanor was the cherished daughter of the late Cosmo and Rose (Camelio) Fustolo and a dear sister to Gilda Ferreira of Sudbury, the late Costanzo Fustolo, and Jean Clark. She was a loving grandmother to Olivia, Henry, Vincent Michael, Marissa, and Anthony, and is also survived by two great-grandchildren.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Eleanor M. Mitrano (Fustolo) →

William J. Dill, known affectionately to all as Bill, passed away on September 29, 2026, in Sun City West, Arizona. He was 70 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William J. Dill →

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is seeking one new member to join the Somerville Municipal Scholarship Committee as a volunteer member. This vacancy is for a person with a passion and energy to assist high school students (public and private) with pursuing higher education.
Continue reading Join the Somerville Municipal Scholarship Committee →

By Joe Viglione

The elegant guitar strums of “Fare Thee Well” (commonly known as “Dink’s Song” with many, many interpretations) from the new Bruce Cockburn album, The Blood of Others create an environment for Cockburn’s voice on this song about leaving. Unlike Glenn Campbell’s getaway in 1967’s “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” the protagonist here is saying goodbye to the one he loves.
Continue reading Bruce Cockburn “Fare Thee Well” from The Blood of Others album, at Chevalier Theater in Medford on Friday, October 23, 2026 at 8 PM →

Yesterday we welcomed the newest graduates from the Police Academy to the force.

Congratulations to Officers Owen Hilliard, Caesar Al-Hedri, Aidan Cawley and Frank Cassarino Jr., for successfully completing the academy and becoming a member of the Medford Police Department. I know you will serve our City with integrity, compassion and dedication.
Continue reading Medford Gets New Graduates From Police Academy →

Community-informed safety upgrades will begin Fall 2026 on well-loved and heavily used path.

SOMERVILLE – Somerville’s Community Path is getting some community-focused safety upgrades. This fall, the City plans to address the top safety concerns shared by over 1,000 path users including speeding, motorized vehicles on the path, failure to yield at street crossings, and visibility issues.
Continue reading Somerville Shares Community Path Safety Improvements →

By William Tauro

The Bluebike parking docks from Winter Hill to East Somerville do not work like a hot-dog cart or a sidewalk café. Bluebikes is not a private company leasing city land. Somerville says the system is publicly owned by the municipalities, with Lyft running day-to-day operations and Blue Cross Blue Shield as title sponsor. Riders pay the fares. The stations sit on public property, or on private property only where the city has an agreement.
Continue reading Are Somerville’s Bluebikes paying rent for the curb space they take, or is the city the one writing the checks? →

September 29th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online September 29th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (54)

Please join us in welcoming our newest officers who graduated from the Northeastern Community College Police Academy in Haverhill today.

• Frank Cassarino
• Caesar Al-Hedri
• Aiden Cawley
• Owen Hilliard
Continue reading Medford: Congratulations to Our New Officers! →