All posts by thesomervillenewsweekly

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Somerville Community Update: Shots Fired Around 31 Temple Street

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

If the city officials would enforce the laws that criminals break and place them in jail where they belong we would not need trama assistance.
You tie the police departments hands and the criminals blossom and cause terror. It is sad to think someone cannot drive through the city walk from their home and be safe. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Somerville Community Update: Shots Fired Around 31 Temple Street

Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Poss. class B) (Boston Warrant)Arrest

On March 20, 2023, I, Officer McAloney, was assigned to marked unit East-1. At approximately 5:03 AM, I was dispatched to 23 Cummings Street (La Quinta Hotel) for a report of a check-condition. Officer T. Lambert (East-4) and Officer Messaoudi, (Sector-East) responded as backup. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Poss. class B) (Boston Warrant)Arrest

Somerville Budget Plan Could Start Highland Ave. Protected Bike Lane Project in 2024

By William Tauro

Say goodbye to businesses and parking on both sides of Highland Avenue! Broadway is next! Absolutely no consideration was given for the businesses that have been here for years, the elderly who depend on automobiles daily and the people who depend on automobiles to get to and from work and to do their daily activities in and around the city and beyond! The road should be shared by all! Let’s bring common sense back to Somerville before it’s totally gone! Continue reading Somerville Budget Plan Could Start Highland Ave. Protected Bike Lane Project in 2024

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: TOP OF PEARSON RD AND BROADWAY SOMERVILLE… THIS HAD BEEN LIKE THIS FOR YRS & GETTING WORSE

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

BILLY ,
THIS IS A PICTURE OF THE SIDEWALK AT THE TOP OF PEARSON RD AND BROADWAY SOMERVILLE…
THIS HAD BEEN LIKE THIS FOR YRS & GETTING WORSE .. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: TOP OF PEARSON RD AND BROADWAY SOMERVILLE… THIS HAD BEEN LIKE THIS FOR YRS & GETTING WORSE

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

By Bob Katzen

“As we continue to experience the aftermath and trauma of senseless gun violence in our communities, we must utilize all available resources to stop these tragedies. My colleagues and I urge these credit companies not to cave to political pressure and to move forward with what will be an important resource in detecting, identifying and stopping potential threats to public safety.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

RIGHT TO DIE/ASSISTED SUICIDE/END OF LIFE OPTIONS (S 1331)

By Bob Katzen

This bill, known by many names, would give a terminally ill, mentally capable adult with a prognosis of six months or less to live the option to request, obtain and ingest medication—to die in their sleep if their suffering becomes unbearable. It is currently before the Judiciary Committee.
Continue reading RIGHT TO DIE/ASSISTED SUICIDE/END OF LIFE OPTIONS (S 1331)

SOME SENATORS WHO LIVE 50 MILES FROM THE STATEHOUSE ARE ELIGIBLE TO PAY A REDUCED OR NO FEDERAL INCOME TAX ON THEIR LEGISLATIVE SALARY

By Bob Katzen
Senators who live more than 50 miles from the Statehouse are eligible for a special federal tax break. A 1981 federal law allows them to write off a daily expense allowance when filing their federal income tax return. The complicated system determines a daily amount, ostensibly for meals, lodging and other expenses incurred in the course of their jobs, which can be deducted for every “legislative day.” Continue reading SOME SENATORS WHO LIVE 50 MILES FROM THE STATEHOUSE ARE ELIGIBLE TO PAY A REDUCED OR NO FEDERAL INCOME TAX ON THEIR LEGISLATIVE SALARY

EXTRA PAY FOR ALL 40 SENATORS

By Bob Katzen

All 40 senators receive an additional stipend, above the $73,655 base salary, for their positions in the Democratic and Republican leadership, as committee chairs, vice chairs and the ranking Republican on some committees. The stipend is increased or decreased every two years based on data from the BEA that measures the quarterly change in salaries and wages.
Continue reading EXTRA PAY FOR ALL 40 SENATORS

Discover the joy of dance this summer at NSB!

Northeast School of Ballet (NSB) will offer dance programs for all ages this summer during July. NSB, under the artistic direction of Denise Cecere, is a ballet school that is recognized for training dancers over the past 52 years in the Greater Boston area. The 2023 summer programs will be held at NSB’s studios conveniently located in historic downtown Reading, MA. at 32 Lowell Street, RT 129. Continue reading Discover the joy of dance this summer at NSB!

Letter from the Editor: CASPAR’s Women’s Residential Services NEW DAY telling moms with babies to leave with only three days notice

This past week I called as a request for help from a Somerville resident, CASPAR who runs this Women’s Residential Service called NEW DAY that’s located at 242 Highland Ave, Somerville, MA 02138.
I spoke to the Elizabeth LaCasse who is listed as the Program Director. Continue reading Letter from the Editor: CASPAR’s Women’s Residential Services NEW DAY telling moms with babies to leave with only three days notice

Somerville Affordable Housing Trust Seeks One New Member

The City of Somerville seeks one Somerville resident to serve in a volunteer capacity on the Somerville Affordable Housing Trust (SAHT). This vacancy is for a Somerville tenant whose household is income eligible for federal or state housing programs with an interest in addressing and advocating for the city’s affordable housing needs. Continue reading Somerville Affordable Housing Trust Seeks One New Member

Somerville’s Rodent And Leak Resistant Wheeled Trash Reciprocals Aren’t Working


 

By William Tauro 

The City of Somerville’s trash barrel of choice that was distributed to thousands of homes here in the city are failing us miserably. The barrel manufacturer claims that their product features “a rodent rim, specifically designed to keep out some of the most persistent varmints that cities face. It’s unique locking mechanism that prevents critters from opening the carts, consuming the waste, and leaving a mess for the city and residents to clean. Each lock is also designed to prevent debris from becoming trapped during dumping, ensuring no material gets left behind in your cart.” Continue reading Somerville’s Rodent And Leak Resistant Wheeled Trash Reciprocals Aren’t Working

Somerville Youth and Recreation Foundation (SYRF) and Other Somerville High School Programs Receive Donations

Mr. Paul Collyer, the organizer of last year’s 2022 Somerville Jingle Bell Run & Walk, made some local donations today, 07 March 2023 at the new Somerville Recreation Center located at 8 Bonair Street in Somerville, MA. 02145
Continue reading Somerville Youth and Recreation Foundation (SYRF) and Other Somerville High School Programs Receive Donations

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: City of Somerville Installing Parking Meters in Front of Residential Homes on Our Side-Streets

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

You need to go by 27 College Ave in Somerville because the city has now installed parking meters in front of our homes directly across the street from the elderly building to compensate parking revenue that was once brought in by the metered parking spaces that they so foolishly removed from College Avenue. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: City of Somerville Installing Parking Meters in Front of Residential Homes on Our Side-Streets

The Center for Arts at the Armory Spotlight Series Presents Sweet Honey in the Rock on March 25th

Somerville, MA–The Center Arts at the Armory is proud to present the acclaimed Sweet Honey in the Rock on March 25th at the historic and intimate Armory Performance Hall as part of our signature Spotlight Series. Doors are 7pm and the performance begins at 8pm. Continue reading The Center for Arts at the Armory Spotlight Series Presents Sweet Honey in the Rock on March 25th

Make Your Voice Heard: Join the Next Community Listening Session for Somerville Chief of Police Recruitment on March 9

A community-driven approach is at the heart of Somerville’s search for a new Chief of Police. Somerville community members are invited to join a second virtual public listening session led by GovHR on Thursday, March 9, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Continue reading Make Your Voice Heard: Join the Next Community Listening Session for Somerville Chief of Police Recruitment on March 9

Letter to Somerville Mayor RE: 90 Washington St. City Plan

Dear Mayor Ballantyne:

On February 28, 2023, many Cobble Hill Residents attended by Zoom the City’s 90 Washington Street Request for Qualifications (RFQ) – Virtual Site Tour / Q&A Roundtable. Of the Cobble Hill residents who attended the presentation, not one supported the City’s taking of Cobble Hill’s parking lot, alleyway, or green space and all oppose your plan to build a noise producing fire and safety building next door. Continue reading Letter to Somerville Mayor RE: 90 Washington St. City Plan

Somerville Honoring George Dilboy

By Harry Agritha

On Saturday, March 18 at 1:30 a wreath will be placed in front of the George Dilboy monument at Somerville City Hall. My father shared our local hero Dilboy interesting story with me over 50 years ago. Here is a version I recently compiled from additional resources such as The Somerville Museum, Somerville Public Library, the book After Alatsata to name a few. My grandparents came from the same village Alatsata and settled in the “Brickbottom” neighborhood in Somerville around 1920 🇬🇷 🇺🇸 Continue reading Somerville Honoring George Dilboy

Free Walk-In Flu & COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics Continue Through March

The City of Somerville continues to host weekly walk-in vaccination clinics for residents through the end of March, with both flu vaccines and the bivalent Moderna COVID-19 booster available. Clinics will take place each Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m. at the City Hall Annex, 50 Evergreen Ave., through March 29. Continue reading Free Walk-In Flu & COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics Continue Through March

Somerville Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change Seeks One Member

The City of Somerville Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change (CEUCC) seeks one new member, and all Somerville residents are invited to apply. Boards and commissions offer an opportunity for residents with a range of experience, skills, expertise, and perspectives to share their talents and insights with their community. 
Continue reading Somerville Commission on Energy Use and Climate Change Seeks One Member

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey released a proposed $55.5 billion fiscal 2024 state budget. Here’s what they are saying about it.

“Our … budget is what Massachusetts needs to meet this moment and build a strong economy, livable communities and a sustainable future. Combined with our tax relief proposal, we will set Massachusetts up for success by lowering costs, growing our competitiveness and delivering on the promise of our people. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

$353 MILLION SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 57)

By Bob Katzen

The House 153-0, approved and sent to the Senate a $353 million fiscal 2023 supplemental budget. Provisions include $86 million for the emergency shelter system to help offset medical costs for migrant families going to emergency rooms for shelter and assistance; $130 million to keep expanded nutrition assistance in place for a few more months; $65 million for the universal school meals program; and provisions to keep some pandemic-era programs, set to expire, in place including allowing restaurants to sell beer, wine and cocktails for take-out and expanding outdoor dining from April 1, 2023 to April 1, 2024. Continue reading $353 MILLION SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 57)

Official Somerville Song “Another One Bites the Dust”

By Arthur Moore

Lost at least three places these last two weeks that I know of. But then I no longer go into any squares in Somerville so there could be more. Parking and driving here keeps me from doing business here anymore. Now the picture of this boutique where the parking was taken away was lucky to last as long as they did with no parking after they moved in. Continue reading Official Somerville Song “Another One Bites the Dust”

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: West Somerville Neighborhood School “STUDENT THE MONTH”

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

Valerie received an award at the West Somerville Neighborhood School for her empathy toward her fellow students. She shows concerns on peoples feelings and understands their needs. Each grade selected a student of the month. Valerie Wright was selected for the sixth grade. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: West Somerville Neighborhood School “STUDENT THE MONTH”

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

“[We] appreciate the support and partnership with USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and remain committed to ensuring that our most vulnerable populations, including elders, have access to local, fresh food. At a time when food insecurity rates remain high, the added benefit will provide elders with high-quality, nutritious food while supporting our Massachusetts farmers and food producers.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

ESTABLISH CHILDREN’S CABINET (SD 2242)

By Bob Katzen

This bill would establish, under the governor’s office, a Children’s Cabinet to develop and implement a cohesive vision using integrated services to improve child, youth and family outcomes, including issues relating to child poverty, educational preparedness, mental health, homelessness, foster care, juvenile justice and the health, safety and welfare of children.
Continue reading ESTABLISH CHILDREN’S CABINET (SD 2242)

If I decide to announce my candidacy for mayor of Somerville

If I decide to announce my candidacy for mayor of Somerville, as a Mayoral candidate in Somerville, I will have a broad range of campaign topics, and my campaign promise is to have an open-door policy and give top priority to the residents of the city. Some of the key topics that I have mentioned in my campaign will include:
Continue reading If I decide to announce my candidacy for mayor of Somerville

Tractor Trailer Hits McGrath Highway Overpass Bridge in Somerville

By William Tauro

With all the confusion with detours and roadwork in Somerville especially with all these new lanes things can get really confusing. This tractor trailer’s driver failed to negotiate the turn and hit the cement trestles above underneath of the McGrath Highway Overpass In Somerville early Wednesday afternoon.
Continue reading Tractor Trailer Hits McGrath Highway Overpass Bridge in Somerville

Somerville/Medford Remembering Beverly A. Duffy

BEVERLY’S OBITUARY:

Beverly Ann “Bev” (Bergeron) Duffy of Englewood, Fl and Wells, ME, formerly of West Medford, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. She was 89. Bev graduated from Medford High School, Class of 1950. Beloved wife of the late John J. Duffy, with whom she shared over 65 years of marriage until his passing in 2020. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Beverly A. Duffy

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: When will the Bus Network Redesign Committee ever learn to leave well enough alone?

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

MBTA NOW PLANS TO ELIMINATE #94 BUS!

It is most important for us to submit our comments to save this crucial bus route!
This notice highlights, once again, how The MBTA Bus Redesign Committee doesn’t possess the competence, interest and expertise to thoroughly review, study and subsequently keep the tried-and-true bus routes. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: When will the Bus Network Redesign Committee ever learn to leave well enough alone?

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Homeless Person Trying to Grab Patrons at Dunkin’s

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

Greetings and good evening Mr.Tauro,
I appreciate you keeping issues in somerville real and not hiding them. Here’s a story I saw today and should be exposed if Dunkins doesn’t take action against these 2 cowardly employees at 220 Broadway across from Foss Park. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Homeless Person Trying to Grab Patrons at Dunkin’s

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

By Bob Katzen

“We know gun laws save lives. Massachusetts has consistently remained in the lowest three state rankings. As an urban state with the most effective gun safety laws, we treat guns like automobiles including renewable licensing, first in the nation consumer protection regulations for the gun industry and the most comprehensive assault weapon ban. It is no coincidence that once again we have the lowest gun death rate in the nation.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

THE HOMELESS PROBLEM is THE MOST IMPORTANT PROBLEM!

By Karen Glover

This Resouce Guide is very extensive. It hasn’t been updated since 2018, so best to call first if services are needed.
The Homeless Problem is huge, with so many facets. There are many services, but I guess we don’t have nearly enough? Idk…but I realized that I don’t know nearly enough about this heart-wrenching problem. Continue reading THE HOMELESS PROBLEM is THE MOST IMPORTANT PROBLEM!

EMERGENCY DONATIONS SOUGHT FOR FIRE VICTIMS

You can help. On February 13, more than 50 people, including 16 children, were displaced by an apartment block fire on Highland Avenue. Fortunately, everyone got out safely, but significant challenges remain for our neighbors and students who cannot return to their homes. More than 13 City departments and a half-dozen partner agencies mobilized to set up temporary shelter, food, and other supports, but your help is needed for what comes next. Continue reading EMERGENCY DONATIONS SOUGHT FOR FIRE VICTIMS

City and Somerville Arts Council seek 20 individuals to participate in a 75-minute online focus group discussion which will guide the Armory’s future

As part of the ongoing Armory Master Plan process, the City and Somerville Arts Council seek 20 individuals to participate in a 75-minute online focus group discussion which will guide the Armory’s future as a vibrant arts center for years to come.
Continue reading City and Somerville Arts Council seek 20 individuals to participate in a 75-minute online focus group discussion which will guide the Armory’s future

Public Hearing on Allocating Federal Funds to Reduce Homelessness & Increase Housing Stability, February 23

The City of Somerville Housing Division is holding a public hearing to obtain public input on its draft Allocation Plan for more than $1.6 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Continue reading Public Hearing on Allocating Federal Funds to Reduce Homelessness & Increase Housing Stability, February 23