Obituary
James Flint Brayton – Of Somerville, formerly a long-time resident of Little Compton, Rhode Island and Westport, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 25, 2025. He was 100 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James Flint Brayton→
Program offerings encourage movement for preventative social, mental, and physical health
SOMERVILLE — A January dance party was in full swing at the Holland Street Senior Center when the Somerville Council on Aging announced it is officially joining the Massachusetts Councils on Aging’s (MCOA) Active Agers Program. The new initiative aims to promote physical activity to enhance mental and physical health as well as quality of life for seniors across Massachusetts. Possible participation prizes and rewards for participating COAs and individuals are also included. Continue reading Somerville’s Council on Aging Joins Statewide Active Agers Initiative→
Obituary
Brian J. Brady, a beloved resident of Arlington and formerly of Somerville, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the age of 82. Born in Boston, he was the cherished son of the late Edward P. and Vivian (Vizard) Brady. Brian was a proud United States Army veteran who honorably served his country during the Vietnam War, a source of great pride throughout his life. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Brian J. Brady→
Obituary
Robert L. Bailot, aged 62, passed away unexpectedly on February 25th. Born and raised in Somerville, he was the son of the late Mary Meck and Joseph Bailot. Robert, affectionately known as Bob, was the beloved husband of the late Lorraine Bailot (Frye) for 38 years. Together, they raised their family in Everett. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert L. Bailot→
“For more than a year, we’ve been fighting to protect the constitutional rights of babies born in Massachusetts and across the country from the Trump Administration’s blatantly unlawful order that would rip away their right to citizenship. Courts have ruled again and again that President Trump does not have the authority to rewrite the Constitution, and I will continue to stand up for the rule of law and for American children across the country whose fundamental rights are being attacked by this administration.” Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL→
Would raise from $35 to $200 the fine for violating the traffic rule that provides when two vehicles approach or enter an intersection at approximately the same instant, the operator of the vehicle on the left must yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right. The proposal also imposes additional penalties and/or license revocation for up to six months for any of these violations that cause death, serious bodily harm or bodily harm. Continue reading RAISE FINE FOR “RIGHT OF WAY” VIOLATIONS (H 3817)→
Would prohibit anyone from retrofitting any diesel-powered vehicle with any device, smokestack or other equipment that enhances the vehicle’s capacity to emit soot, smoke or other particulate emissions. Violators would be subject to a fine of between $100 and $1,000.
Would establish a 120-hour training period for new employees under the age of 18 who work 20 hours or less per week and require a work permit. During this initial training period with a new employer, these workers would be paid a minimum wage of at least $10 per hour. Continue reading NEW EMPLOYEES UNDER 18 (H 2175)→
Senate 5-32, rejected an amendment that would remove a section in the higher education bill that exempts tax revenue generated from the voter-approved Millionaire’s Tax from counting toward the allowable state tax revenue limitations, under Chapter 62F, which provides that whenever revenue collections in a fiscal year exceed an annual cap tied to wage and salary growth, the excess is returned to taxpayers. Continue reading TAX REVENUE FROM MILLIONAIRE’S TAX (S 3)→
Senate 6-31, rejected an amendment that would provide local cities and towns with $300 million in education aid for public elementary and secondary education, including “programs, services, operations, supports and improvements that advance educational quality, equity, access and student success in the commonwealth.” Continue reading $300 MILLION FOR K-12 EDUCATION (S 2962)→
Senate 37-0, approved a $3.28 billion package, known as the BRIGHT Act, that funds the modernization of Bay State public colleges and universities by using the revenue from the 2022 voter-approved law, known as the Millionaire’s Tax, that imposes an additional 4 percent income tax, in addition to the current flat 5 percent one, on taxpayers’ earnings of more than $1 million annually. The House has already approved its own version of the bill and a House-Senate conference committee will likely hammer out a compromise version. Continue reading $3.28 BILLION TO MODERNIZE BAY STATE PUBLIC COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES (S 2962)→
House 26-127, rejected an amendment that would prohibit the state from approving a battery storage facility in a municipality, unless the city or town governing body of the municipality in which the facility is proposed has voted to approve the project. The amendment also gives cities and towns the authority to establish additional siting, safety and environmental requirements for these storage facilities, as long as they don’t conflict with state law. Continue reading BATTERY STORAGE FACILITY (H 5151)→
Senate 37-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that amends a current law which exempts smaller convenience stores from being required to display unit pricing. Unit pricing is the identification of and labeling of items for sale with the retail price per unit, permitting easier price comparisons among similar products in different sized containers. Continue reading UNIT PRICING IN CONVENIENCE STORES (S 2965)→
The House 25-129, rejected an amendment that would require the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, in consultation with the Department of Public Utilities and the Energy Facilities Siting Board, to conduct a competitive solicitation for proposals to increase firm interstate natural gas transmission capacity into the Bay State with a goal of enhancing winter energy reliability and mitigating price volatility affecting ratepayers. Continue reading NATURAL GAS (H 5151)→
House 25-130, rejected an amendment that would suspend the electric distribution companies from assessing and collecting from consumers “public benefit energy charges” on electric utility bills for twelve consecutive billing months. These charges currently fund programs such as energy efficiency, renewable and clean energy initiatives, distributed solar, electric vehicle programs and residential assistance. Continue reading SUSPEND CHARGES (H 5151)→
House 128-27, approved and sent to the Senate legislation that supporters said would result in over $9 billion in savings for utility ratepayers over the next ten years. The measure cuts roughly $1 billion from the Mass Save program’s marketing and administrative budgets; returns 70 percent of alternative compliance payments to ratepayers through mid-2029; expands clean energy procurement authority; eases political barriers to nuclear development by repealing a voter law that placed restrictions on it; and delays an offshore wind contracting deadline by two years to 2029. Continue reading ENERGY (H 5151)→
Robbery
26009565: On 2/18/26 at approximately 12:26 PM, Somerville Police responded to a business on Broadway for a shoplifting. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated he observed a male party shoplifting. When he attempted to stop him, the suspect punched him in the face and fled the area. The victim suffered injuries to his nose and eye. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log→
Brelundi’s recipes have been passed down through our family for generations. Growing up in Southern Italy, we savored meals enhanced with an abundance of fresh ingredients and bright, lively flavors found in the Mediterranean.
We are all day breakfast, lunch and dinner spot! 7am-8pm.
The Medford Police Department is currently investigating an incident that occurred in the Medford Square area during the overnight hours of February 23 into February 24. Continue reading Medford Police Department Updates→
On February 26, 2026, Somerville Police K-9 Missy assisted the Brookline Police Department and the U.S. Secret Service New England Cyber Fraud Task Force during the execution of a search warrant in Brookline. The investigation resulted in the arrest and charging of an individual in connection with a child sexual abuse material (CSAM) case. Continue reading Somerville Police K-9 Missy Assists in Child Exploitation Investigation→
Mary Christina (Nardella) Morrison, also known as Nene, was born on December 11, 1941, in Cambridge. She passed away peacefully at home at the age of 84 on Saturday, February 21, 2026, exactly three years after the passing of her beloved son, Paul. She was the cherished daughter of the late Christina (Mammola) and Philip Nardella. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary Christina (Nardella) Morrison→
Massachusetts, once a beacon for innovation and economic growth, has seen a troubling trend in 2025 and early 2026: businesses and residents relocating to more affordable states like Florida and New Hampshire. While the state’s economy remains robust in sectors like biotech and tech, factors such as skyrocketing taxes, political corruption, excessive bureaucracy, incompetent leadership, an overreaching progressive agenda, generous benefits for undocumented immigrants, and overall mismanagement are cited as key drivers of this exodus.   This short article explores these issues and suggests ways to reverse the tide. Continue reading Why Businesses Are Leaving Massachusetts: Unpacking the Issues and Paths to Improvement→
Move vehicles by 4 p.m., Sunday, February 22, to odd-numbered side of street (unless otherwise posted) to avoid ticketing and towing
Parking is also allowed in City-owned lots (but not in school lots)
SOMERVILLE – Based on current weather forecasts, the City is declaring a snow emergency to go into effect at 12 p.m. (noon) on Sunday, February 22. Residents can help DPW crews work efficiently and keep emergency routes clear for fire trucks, police, and ambulances by following the guidelines below. Continue reading Somerville Declares Snow Emergency Effective Sunday, February 22, at 12 p.m. Noon→
The House, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave initial approval to legislation that would provide that any condition of impairment of health caused by an infectious disease resulting in total or partial disability or death to an employee of a correctional facility would be presumed to have been suffered in the line of duty, unless shown otherwise by competent evidence. Continue reading INFECTUOUS DISEASES (H 2836)→
The House, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave initial approval to Legislation that would name the portion of the Massachusetts Turnpike between Boston and Worcester, “The Bill Russell and Bob Cousy Highway.” Continue reading BILL RUSSELL AND BOB COUSY HIGHWAY (H 3727)→
The House, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave initial approval to a bill that would amend a current law that gives seniors 70 and older, who meet certain low-income qualifications, an exemption in the amount of $4,000 of taxable valuation of real property or the sum of $500, whichever would decrease the property tax by the most. Continue reading INCREASE PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION FOR SENIORS OVER 70 (H 3236)→
The House, on a voice vote without a roll call, gave initial approval to a Senate-approved bill that 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. Continue reading INCREASE TAX RELIEF TO VETERANS (S 1948)→
House 154-0, approved an amendment that would create a special legislative commission to conduct a comprehensive study on family caregiving policy in the Bay State including an evaluation of all state-funded efforts in caregiving research, clinical care, institutional and home-based and community-based services and an investigation into the potential fiscal, access and quality impacts of allowing spouses to serve as paid caregivers in the MassHealth program. Continue reading SPECIAL COMMISSION ON FAMILY CAREGIVING (H 4704)→
House 23-131, rejected an amendment to a bill that would provide a framework for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to identify and approve a list of high-quality curricula that school districts will select from for kindergarten through third grade literacy. Continue reading EARLIER READING INTERVENTION (H 4672)→
SOMERVILLE – Dreaming of warmer days and a yard in full bloom? In preparation for spring, Somerville residents can apply for a free tree to be planted in their yard through the Mystic River Watershed Association’s (MyRWA) Tree Planting Program. All Somerville residents are invited to apply (for renters, with landlord permission). Sign up now through Friday, March 13. Continue reading Free Trees Available for Somerville Residents Through MyRWA Program→
26006536: On 2/3/26 at approximately 10:35 AM, Somerville Police responded to an apartment complex on Day St for a breaking and entering. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the property manager who stated someone broke into the storage area in the basement and stole a package. Officers identified the suspect.
Are you passionate about working locally to address the climate crisis, strengthen community resilience, and help Somerville adapt to climate change? The City is seeking up to 13 volunteer members to join the Somerville Climate Action Commission (CAC). Membership is open to all residents and those who do business in Somerville. Continue reading Join the Somerville Climate Action Commission Apply by April 3, 2026→
Obituary
John D. Carroll — Of Somerville, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, February 15, 2026. He was 79 years old.
Billy M. Farrell – Of Medford, passed away with his siblings by his side on Monday, February 16, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 61 years old.
Jeremiah Christian of Medford, Massachusetts passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family by his side on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at the age of 96 years. Born and raised in Dominica, West Indies, Jeremiah was the son of the late William Christian and Sylvie Boufonge. His roots, his culture, and his upbringing shaped the man he became – steadfast, joyful and devoted to the people he loved. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Jeremiah Christian→
“By making ChatGPT available to the state workforce, we are empowering our employees with a secure, governed tool that can enhance service delivery while maintaining the highest standards for data privacy, security and thoughtful, transparent usage of Artificial Intelligence. Our focus is not just adopting AI, but doing so in a way that reflects our values, and strengthens trust with the residents we serve.” Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL→
The Transportation Committee will hold a public hearing on March 3 on legislation that would require the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) to issue a mobile ID—compliant with American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators standards—to any individual eligible for a physical driver’s license, learner’s permit or state ID. The mobile ID would not replace the physical version, and individuals would still be required to carry their physical ID while driving. Continue reading ISSUE MOBILE ID (S 2905)→
The House 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 set up a payment plan with the person who owes the unpaid balances. Continue reading INTEREST RATE ON UNPAID PROPERTY TAXES (H 3238)→
Without a roll call vote, the House gave initial approval to a bill that would allow municipalities to grant a property tax reduction to property owners who serve as volunteer, call or auxiliary firefighters or EMTs. The reduction of the tax bill would be capped at $2,500 per property owner but would be in addition to any other exemption or abatement to which the property owner is entitled. Continue reading REAL ESTATE TAX EXEMPTION (H 3132)→
The House gave initial approval to, without a roll call vote, 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. Continue reading DECEASED ANIMALS ON STATE HIGHWAYS (H 3678)→
The Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters said would advance the goal of ensuring every Massachusetts resident has a fair opportunity to access housing. The measure mandates fair housing training for all real estate agents and strengthens state enforcement of the Fair Housing Law. Continue reading HOUSING DISCRIMINATION (S 2947)→
The Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House legislation that supporters say would strengthen consumer rights for people who buy new and used vehicles by expanding the state’s car buyer protection law; increasing the mileage for used car warranties; and strengthening the bonds that give relief to victims of auto sale fraud. Continue reading SALE OF VEHCLES (S 2945)→
The Senate 37-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters said would help the certified public accountant (CPA) workforce grow and meet consumer demand while upholding its longtime professional standards. The proposal updates the standards for certification as a CPA by offering a mix of college education and work experience, such as a bachelor’s degree combined with two years of full-time professional experience, or a master’s degree paired with one year of professional experience. Continue reading CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS (S 2946)→
The House 25-132, rejected an amendment that would set the state primary date in Massachusetts four weeks earlier than currently. The state primary, under law, typically takes place in September on the seventh Tuesday preceding the biennial state elections. The amendment would move the date up to August, specifically to the eleventh Tuesday preceding the general election, essentially moving the date from early/mid-September around the Labor Day holiday weekend, up to early August. Continue reading CHANGE DATE OF PRIMARY ELECTIONS (H 5093)→
The House 154-3, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would prohibit the distribution of deceptive communications within 90 days of an election, including audio or visual media which depicts a candidate with intent to injure their reputation or deceive a voter into voting for or against them. It also bans content with the intent to mislead voters of the date and time of an election; the requirements, methods or deadlines to vote. Continue reading ELECTION MISINFORMATION (H 5093)→
The House 157-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would require that any synthetic media audio or video communication intended to influence voting for or against a candidate or ballot proposition, must disclose at the beginning and end of the communication that it contains AI-generated materials. Violators would be fined up to $1,000. Continue reading REGULATE THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IN POLITICAL ADS (H 5094)→
HARDY, Stephen of Somerville. Passed away peacefully on February 5th, 2026. Beloved son of the late Alfred and Claire Hardy. Loving father of Keryn Lee of CA and Caitlin Hardy of Somerville. Devoted brother of Alfred Hardy, Diane Rayner, Claire Whalen, Patricia Benoit, Colleen Corey, and Thomas Hardy, and the late Donna Hardy, James Hardy, John Hardy, Barbara Nicholas and Timothy Hardy. Also survived by his loving aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Stephen Hardy→
Obituary
Kevin F. Murphy, of Arlington, passed away on Super Bowl Sunday, February 8, 2026, he was 69. Born in Arlington and raised in Somerville, Kevin was one of eight children born to the late Betty (Davenport) and Timothy Murphy. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kevin F. Murphy→
The Community Gospel Choir will present a free Gospel Concert in honor of Black History Month on Sunday, February 22, 3-5 pm, at the Somerville Community Baptist Church, 31 College Avenue near Davis Square. Continue reading Somerville Community Baptist Church Gospel Concert→
First two sessions scheduled for February 18 at the Council on Aging, February 19 at the Central Library
SOMERVILLE– Ever wondered what to include in an emergency kit; how to help your children understand what to do in an emergency; or how you can prepare for extended power outages? These topics and more are subjects of a new training series offered by Somerville’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM). The Preparedness and Resiliency Through Neighborhood Engagement and Readiness (PARTNER) Program is open to all community members and is free to attend. Continue reading Somerville Emergency Management Introduces Preparedness and Resiliency Community Education Program→
SOMERVILLE – Roses are red, violets are blue—Somerville’s got free STI tests (and pizza) for you. On February 17, Somerville’s Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the Cambridge Health Alliance, is hosting an all-ages Valentine’s-themed community resource fair on Tuesday, February 17, at the Central Library (79 Highland Ave.) from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Continue reading Somerville Hosting Valentine’s-Themed Community Resources Fair on Feb. 17→
Hear from the Mayor, Superintendent, and project architects about plans for
our next new school building and share your perspective
SOMERVILLE— The City is planning to build a new school at 115 Sycamore Street. All community members are invited to come learn more about the project and share their perspective at an upcoming community forum on Tuesday, March 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Somerville High School’s Highlander Forum. Continue reading Join the Community Forum on Somerville’s New School Building Project March 3rd→
This Wednesday night February 11th, Woburn’s Gary Leavitt will host Joyce Kulhawik On 95.9 WATD radio station Gary Leavitt and Friends. Continue reading Gary Leavitt and Friends→
“Now, Therefore, I, Maura T. Healey, Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, do hereby proclaim Friday, February 6th through Sunday, February 8th, 2026 to be New England Patriots Appreciation Weekend.”
—Gov. Maura Healey in an official proclamation to celebrate the Patriots playing in the Super Bowl. Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL→
The House gave initial approval to a measure that would prohibit homeowner insurance companies from including in a policy a provision requiring an insured homeowner to complete a repair prior to the release of funds estimated by the insurer for the cost of repair. Continue reading HOME REPAIRS (H 1271)→
The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would make major changes in laws about pets in homes, apartments, hotels and shelters across the state during a state of emergency to allow owners of pets to remain safely housed and not be formally removed from housing due to their pets.
The House gave initial approval to legislation that would require any locksmith hired by a tenant to change locks on a rental property, to make a good faith effort to determine whether a landlord has received notice of the request. The locksmith would also be required to determine if the rental agreement requires that the owner retain a key to the leased residential premises; and if so, the locksmith would be required to make a good faith effort to provide a key to the new locks to the owner within two business days of the locks being changed. Continue reading LOCKSMITHS (H 1562)→
The Senate approved and sent to the House a new version of a bill that would modernize and remove archaic language in state laws to reflect the evolution of terminology relating to persons with disabilities. The House and Senate had already approved different versions of the measure, and this new third version, drafted by the Senate, now goes to the House for consideration. Continue reading CHANGE ARCHAIC LANGUAGE REFERRING TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (S 2594)→
On Tuesday, February 3, at approximately 6:25 p.m., the Somerville Fire Department was alerted to a fire in the Salt & Stone restaurant located at 463 Assembly Row. The restaurant is on the first floor of a six-story building with apartments above. Continue reading Fire at Assembly Row Somerville→
Storytelling, interactive cultural activities, food, and more.
SOMERVILLE—Welcome the Year of the Horse at Somerville’s third annual Lunar New Year celebration on Saturday, February 14, at Somerville High School (81 Highland Ave.) from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. The festival will highlight our Chinese, Vietnamese, East Asian, and Southeast Asian communities and offer family-friendly storytelling, cultural performances, food, facepainting, and more. Continue reading Celebrate Lunar New Year in Somerville on February 14→
Upcoming events offer tours, Q&A, and proposal guidance for applicants
SOMERVILLE—Want to make the Somerville Armory your creative home base? The City of Somerville’s Armory leasing RFP is underway, and artists and arts organizations are invited to tour the building, meet potential partners, and get hands-on guidance on putting together a strong proposal. Continue reading Calling Creatives: Leasing Opportunities at the Somerville Armory→
Join Somerville’s Black History Month Celebration
Monthlong series of events includes conversation with U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, wellness workshop, and film screenings
SOMERVILLE – To honor Black History Month, the City of Somerville is hosting free public programming throughout February designed to create space for reflection, learning, and community – including a wellness workshop, film screening, and a fireside chat with Somerville’s U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley. Programming is led by Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice, in partnership with local partners. Continue reading Join Somerville’s Black History Month Celebration→
“For countless residents across the commonwealth, these programs offer access to everyday items they need, including food and medical services. Through the work of our fraud examiners, we continue to help ensure they operate with transparency, accountability and equity. Our team will continue to work to ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively and that resources are available to those who truly need and qualify for them.”
—State Auditor Diana DiZoglio on her Bureau of Special Investigations’ fraud report for fiscal year 2025 which identified $11.9 million in public assistance fraud, including more than $4.1 million in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and more than $1.3 million in in MassHealth, the state’s Medicaid program that provides health care for low-income and disabled persons. Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL→
Gov. Healey marked the 20th anniversary of the Sen. Charles E. Shannon Jr. Community Safety Initiative (Shannon CSI) by announcing grant awards of $8.4 million to support evidence-based efforts that prevent and reduce youth and gang violence in communities across Massachusetts. Continue reading $8.4 MILLION TO PREVENT AND REDUCE YOUTH VIOLENCE→
The Education Committee will hold a hearing on February 10 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on a measure that would allow students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to receive applied behavior analysis (ABA) services at their school — even if the services are administered by outside providers. Supporters said that currently school districts can impose undue requirements for ABA providers or deny access altogether. Continue reading AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (H 4927)→
Gov. Maura Healey filed a $62.8 billion fiscal 2027 state budget for the fiscal year 2027 that begins on July 1.
Healey’s office says that the budget does not propose any new taxes or fees and represents only a 1.1 percent growth over estimated fiscal year 2026 spending, the lowest spending rate since taking office and well under the rate of inflation. Continue reading GOVERNOR PROPOSES $62.8 BILLION FISCAL 2027 STATE BUDGET (H 2)→
The Senate 37-0, approved and sent to the House a proposal that would designate January 30 of each year as Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the Constitution in Massachusetts, in recognition of the birthday of Fred Korematsu and to educate about and honor his life, his perseverance, and his determination to advocate for the civil liberties of all Americans. Continue reading JAPANSESE INTERNMENT CAMPS (S 2132)→
The Senate 38-0, approved a bill that would require Massachusetts school districts to select kindergarten through 3rd grade reading curricula that meet guidelines set by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) based upon evidence-based literacy instruction and featuring phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension and phonemic awareness. School districts would have until the start of the 2027-2028 school year to adopt a K-3 literacy curriculum that meets the new framework, or to secure approval from DESE for a waiver. Continue reading LITERACY EDUCATION STANDARDS (S 2924)→
The House 26-130, rejected an amendment that would create a Massachusetts AED Communities Fund to help cities and towns pay for AEDs at public stadiums, sports centers, gymnasiums or other facilities hosting or providing athletic or sporting events, and also pay for any necessary equipment and infrastructure to properly hold and charge the devices. Continue reading ESTABLISH FUND TO HELP COMMUNITIES PAY FOR DEFIBRILLATORS (H 4993)→
The House 154-1, approved legislation that would require an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) to be present at all public stadiums, sports centers, gymnasiums or other facilities hosting or providing athletic or sporting events. The measure does not apply to a school-sponsored athletic event at a school gymnasium. Continue reading REQUIRE DEFIBRILLATORS AT SPORTING EVENTS (H 4993)→
The House 154-1, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that seeks to increase the state’s trades’ workforce by requiring the hiring of apprentices for all contracts awarded for public works projects over $10 million. One year after the bill becomes law, it would require projects to hire apprentices to work 5 percent of the total amount of hours worked, 10 percent in three years and 15 percent in four years. Continue reading REQUIRE APPRENTICESHIPS IN PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION (H 5032)→
The House 156-0, approved a bill that would annually establish June 16 as Domestic Workers’ Rights Day to honor all domestic workers who work in private homes and in recognition of Massachusetts’ historic enactment of basic labor standards in the Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights. Continue reading DOMESTIC WORKERS’ RIGHTS DAY (H 3417)→
Maria L. (Fabiano) Torra of Revere, formerly of Somerville, passed away on Tuesday, January 27th, 2026. She was 92 years old. Born in San Sossio Baronia, Avellino, Italy, she was the cherished daughter of the late Vito and Vincenza (Marinella) Fabiano. Prior to her retirement, Maria worked as a seamstress in the clothing industry. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, knitting and working in her garden. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Maria L. (Fabiano) Torra→
Obituary
Reyna Carmen Mendez-Salazar, de Somerville, falleció rodeada de su familia el 28 de enero de 2026, a la edad de 42 años.
Nacida y criada en Chiquimula, Guatemala, era hija de los difuntos Rosalio Benjamin Mendez y Maria Luisa Salazar. Llegó a los Estados Unidos a los 14 años con su tía en busca de nuevas oportunidades. Trabajadora incansable, fundó y dirigió su propia empresa de limpieza antes de su enfermedad.
Especialmente dedicada a su familia, Reyna es la amada pareja de Omar Meza Ramirez. y la querida madre de Bryan Emmanuel Meza Mendez, de Somerville. También le sobreviven sus queridos hermanos, hermanas, demás familiares y amigos.
Los servicios funerarios se llevarán a cabo en la Funeraria George L. Doherty, ubicada en 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.), Somerville, el viernes 30 de enero, de 17:00 a 20:00, con un servicio de oración que comenzará a las 19:00. Familiares y amigos están invitados a asistir. El sepelio será privado.
Letter from the Editor: I have sincere appreciation for this young man who in his Facebook comment is explaining the hard work and struggles that snow plow drivers go through in keeping our community safe and while driving nonstop for hours overnight! Hats off to you Conor and thank you for a job well done! 👍  Continue reading Letter from the Editor:Young Somerville Snow Plow Driver Tells It Like It Is→
Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northampton) and Rep. Homar Gomez (D-Easthampton) filed a bill, requested by some third-grade students at Hadley Elementary School, to make asparagus the official state vegetable. Other areas in the nation are also working to designate their state as the asparagus capital of the world. Continue reading MAKE ASPARAGUS THE OFFICIAL STATE VEGETABLE (HD 5474 and SD 3498)→
The State Ballot Law Commission, a five-member body appointed by the governor, issued a decision overruling the objection filed against an initiative petition that would place on the 2026 November ballot a question asking voters to repeal the current laws that legalize, regulate and tax the retail sale of adult recreational use marijuana in Massachusetts. The proposal to put the question on the ballot had garnered the required 74,754 signatures and it will now, like ten other petitions, go before the Legislature for consideration. If not approved by the Legislature by May 6, 2026, proponents must gather another 12,429 signatures by July 1, 2026, in order for the question to appear on the November 2026 ballot. Continue reading CHALLENGE TO POSSIBLE MARIJUANA BALLOT QUESTION REJECTED→
The Senate 37-0, approved a bill that would expand eligibility for the Senior Tax Deferral Program by lowering eligibility to qualify for it from the current 10 years to seven years of required state residency.
. Continue reading SENIOR PROPERTY TAX DEFERRAL (S 2901)→
The Senate 36-1, approved an amendment to a bill that would give cities and towns the option to create tax rebate programs for residents who already benefit from a local residential exemption. This new rebate program would allow cities and towns to set income and asset thresholds, tailoring relief to local residents’ needs. Continue reading FURTHER EXPAND ELIGIBILITY FOR SENIOR PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION (S 2900)→
The Senate 36-1 approved an amendment that would increase from 30 days to 75 days the amount of time a property owner has to file for an abatement if they feel that their home evaluation was too high. Continue reading EXTEND THE TIME TO FILE FOR AN ABATEMENT (S 2900)→
Obituary
Dorothy A. Costa (Morrissey), of Somerville, passed away on January 20, 2026, at the age of 100. She was the beloved wife of 60 years to the late James J. Costa. Dorothy was a loving mother to Ruth Elio and her husband Daniel of Winchester, James J. Costa, Jr. of Somerville, and Martha Costa of Somerville. She was a cherished grandmother to Daniel and Matthew Elio, Jennifer, Michelle, and Amanda Costa, and a great-grandmother to Brady, Connor, Kate, and Brennan. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dorothy A. Costa (Morrissey)→
Obituary
Richard J. Clark, of Somerville, passed away suddenly on January 18, 2026, he was 51. Ricky was born in Cambridge and raised in Somerville, the oldest son of Catherine (Murphy) Clark of Somerville and the late Richard A. Clark and his surviving wife Andrea Clark. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard J. Clark→
Virtual meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 10; interpretation available in Spanish and Portuguese
SOMERVILLE— Somerville residents have an opportunity to help shape the City’s next annual budget. The City Council Finance Committee is inviting the community to share input on priorities for the City’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget at a virtual community budget meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 10, at 6 p.m. The meeting will be held on Zoom and is open to all residents. Registration is encouraged but not required. Continue reading Somerville Invites Residents to Help Shape FY 2027 Budget Priorities→
SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is encouraging residents to fill out and complete the city’s annual census form, which is making its way to resident mailboxes in mid-January.
Park in Brickbottom neighborhood will merge recreation, public art, and agriculture above massive flood-control infrastructure
SOMERVILLE— A decade in the making, plans for Somerville’s unique ArtFarm park are taking shape. At a public meeting on February 9, City staff will present the latest community-driven designs that aim to transform the city’s former waste transfer site into a creative hub where gardens, public art, and recreational space bloom above a massive underground flood-control system. Continue reading Updated Designs for Somerville’s ArtFarm Park at Feb. 9 Meeting→
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