Artist: Sean Walshe
CD Title American Son

Going Track By Track

Review Joe Viglione

The January 2023 release of Sean Walshe’s American Son is an easy accessible listen which brings back melody, strong lyrics and musical entertainment on record. It, hopefully, will reach that wider audience that it so richly deserves. The musicians who interpret these compositions with producer/engineer Rob Fraboni’s guiding hand certainly know how to make hit records, and American Son is chock full of potential hits.
Continue reading Sean Walshe’s American Son CD Review →

Arrest

23002817: On 1/17/23 at approximately 12:17 PM, Somerville Police responded to a business on Mystic Ave for report of a larceny. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the manager who stated a male party stole numerous items from the store then brandished a knife and swung it at him. Officers observed the male fleeing toward the Assembly train station and ordered him to stop. A knife was recovered from his pocket and he was placed into custody.

Commercial Breaking & Entering Continue reading Somerville Police Department Crime Log →

With very heavy hearts we once again wish to share our deepest sympathies as well as information about supports available in the wake of not one but two mass shootings and a third shooting at a school in Iowa. Continue reading JOINT STATEMENT ON RECENT SHOOTINGS IN CALIFORNIA AND IOWA →

Launching in late 2023, allowing one application for multiple below market housing opportunities expected to be game changer

Continue reading Somerville Takes Next Step Toward “Consolidated Waitlist” to Greatly Simplify Application Process for Affordable Inclusionary Rental Units →

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

Bike lanes, bollards cross walk signs that all get run over and reduction in parking. All for what? climate change to save the world.
All the streets, sidewalks, hp curb cuts, municipal buildings and schools deteriorating right before our eyes.. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:City out of Control It’s the New Wild, Wild, West →

Music of Frank Sinatra Dinner Show with America’s Got Talent’s Joey Chiarenza
By Premiere on Broadway

Ticket includes 3 course dinner & Show! Continue reading Music of Sinatra Valentines Dinner Show @ Premiere on Broadway Feb 14th →

Thirteen-Member Task Force Will Propose Model for Civilian Oversight Body in Somerville

Thursday, January 12, 2023
The City of Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) today announces that it is seeking three Somerville community members to join RSJ’s Civilian Oversight Task Force. Task Force members will explore civilian oversight models for local law enforcement, gather data, and engage in research that will inform the future of a civilian oversight entity in Somerville, including its powers, duties, composition, and more.
Continue reading Somerville Department of Racial and Social Justice Announces Community Applications for Civilian Oversight Task Force →

By William Tauro

A building collapsed next to 31 Elmwood St. in Somerville around noon time on Tuesday. It appears that the building was under construction during the collapse no injuries reported
Continue reading Building Collapse Somerville →

By William Tauro

This recent threat against the Somerville High School and it’s students that was made this past Monday, is more reason why we need police in our schools. Our elected officials are more concerned about creating traffic islands, removing parking spaces and giving themselves pay-raises and staff which they don’t need instead of putting the money toward policing our schools and keeping our children safe. All they talk about is defunding, defunding, defunding instead of protecting our community. Continue reading Letter from the Editor:Somerville High School Threat →

Click on link below to read January 24th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online January 24th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading January 24th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

PATRICK’S OBITUARY:
U.S. Veteran

McCloskey Patrick J. Jr. of Milton (formerly of Somerville and Medford), died peacefully with his family by his side, on January 20, 2023, at 91 years old. Son of the late Patrick J. Sr. and Mary T. (Morandi) McCloskey. He was the loving husband of Evelyn M. (Johnson), for 67 years. Everyone that met them immediately knew it was a true love story. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patrick J. McCloskey →

The City of Somerville’s SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs (SOIA) is pleased to host an open house to connect with residents, City staff, and local service providers. SOIA provides multilingual, culturally competent programs and services and advances policies to support Somerville’s immigrant community. Continue reading Somerville’s SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs Open House, January 26 →

Launching in late 2023, allowing one application for multiple below market housing opportunities expected to be game changer

Community Members Invited to Learn More at Informational Sessions Beginning January 24, 2023
Continue reading Somerville Takes Next Step Toward “Consolidated Waitlist” to Greatly Simplify Application Process for Affordable Inclusionary Rental Units →

By Bob Katzen

While Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov Kim Driscoll assumed office on January 5th, the other four statewide constitutional officers were not sworn in until January 18. Here are some quotes from each of their remarks on Inauguration Day:
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Friday, January 20 at 5 p.m. was the “soft deadline” for legislation to be filed for consideration by the Legislature during the 2023-2024 legislative session. However, under House and Senate rules, bills filed after January 20 can still be admitted to the Legislature following the deadline if the Legislature agrees to admit it by a four-fifths vote of the members of the branch where the bill is introduced. Each legislative session, hundreds of bills are admitted as late-filed bill Continue reading THOUSANDS OF BILLS FILED FOR 2023-2024 SESSION →

By Bob Katzen

The House 29-127, rejected an amendment that would reduce the short-term capital gains tax from 12 percent to 5 percent. Continue reading REDUCE CAPITAL GAINS TAX FROM 12 PERCENT TO 5 PERCENT (H 4700) →

By William Tauro

Look how our local elected officials voted against tax credits for our seniors! On another note these three would be the first to vote for their own self serving pay increases for themselves! Remember in November!
——————————-

 INCREASE TAX BREAK FOR SENIORS (H 4700)
Continue reading Letter from the Editor:LOCAL Democratic ELECTED OFFICIALS VOTED AGAINST INCREASE TAX BREAK FOR SENIORS →

By Bob Katzen

The House 31-125, rejected an amendment that would increase by $1,005 (from $750 to $1,755) the maximum tax credit which seniors over 65 who qualify, can receive under the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit Law. The law applies to seniors with homes valued at less than $884,000 and who earn $62,000 or less for a single individual who is not the head of a household; $78,000 for a head of household; and $93,000 for married couples filing a joint return.
Continue reading INCREASE TAX BREAK FOR SENIORS (H 4700) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 30-126, rejected an amendment that would exempt the first $2 million of the value of a person’s estate from the state’s estate/death tax that a person is required to pay following their death before distribution to any beneficiary. Under current law, only the first $1 million is exempt. Continue reading REDUCE ESTATE/DEATH TAX (H 4700) →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Maura Healey told Poltico Playbook last week that she supports some tax cuts including raising the estate/death tax threshold from $1 million to $2 million and expanding the senior circuit breaker tax credit. She also said she is reviewing a proposal to reduce the short-term capital gains rate from 12 percent to 5 percent.
Continue reading THE HOUSE AND SENATE: →

Tuesday, 1/24: Neighborhood Meeting – 32-44 White Street

Tuesday, 1/24: Consolidated Rental Waitlist Information Session

Wednesday, 1/25: Walk-In Flu & COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Continue reading MORE EVENTS & MEETINGS →

SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs invites residents to attend an open house to learn more about their services and how to get involved.
Continue reading SomerViva Winter Open House, January 26 →

Somerville Parks and Recreation invites local teens ages 14 to 18 to attend their first ever ‘Highlander Night Out’. Continue reading Highlander Night Out, January 25 →

Use the Sand for Better Traction on Icy Surfaces This Winter
A blue barrel filled with sand is situated on the roadside of a sidewalk Continue reading Those Blue Sand Barrels Are For You: →

The City is hosting a series of in-person and virtual information sessions to introduce the coming Consolidated Rental Waitlist. The list will allow one application to be filed for multiple affordable rental housing opportunities rather than requiring individual applications for each project.
Continue reading Attend a “Consolidated Rental Waitlist” Information Session →

Get Updates at Feb. 1 Meeting
The current intersection at Powder House Boulevard and Route 16 is a main entrance into Somerville. It’s also a high-crash location, with 48 crashes between 2014 and 2021.
Continue reading City Targets High-Crash Location with Redesign of Powder House Blvd. & Rte. 16 Intersection: →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division are pleased to announce two affordable homeownership opportunities to income-eligible, first-time homebuyers through the City’s Inclusionary Housing Program at 411 and 432 Norfolk Street. Both condos will be offered to households earning between 81% and 110% of the area median income (AMI). Both are a 5-minute walk from the new Union Square MBTA Green Line station.
Continue reading Affordable Homeownership Opportunities: 411 & 432 Norfolk Street →

Not sure what Civilian Oversight is? It’s worth understanding.
Continue reading Civilian Oversight Task Force Seeks Members | New Affordable Homeownership Units | Highlander Night Out →

JAMES’ OBITUARY
Sullivan, James L., Esq—Of Hampton, NH, and Deerfield Beach, Florida passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 17, 2023. He was 81 years old Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James L. Sullivan →

William J. Driscoll – of North Andover, passed away on Sunday, January 15, 2023 after a 7 month battle with cancer. He died peacefully at home surrounded by family. He was 75 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William J. Driscoll →

DAVID’S OBITUARY
Parker, David A., passed away peacefully at the Hunt Nursing Home in Danvers, on January 7, 2022. He was 80 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering David A. Parker →

By William Tauro

Defunding the police has led to higher crime levels around the city over the past two years.

By fully funding the police, more resources can be allocated to the training they need to avoid tragic situations. Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Defunding the police has led to higher crime levels around the city over the past two year →

Assault

23001473: On 1/9/23 at approximately 7:47 PM, a female party entered the station and reported that she was victim of an assault on the morning of 1/8/23. The victim stated she left Encore Casino and was followed by another vehicle. When the victim stopped at a light, a male and female exited the other vehicle and the female party threw her onto the ground and kicked her. As the victim tried to get up, the male party pushed her back to the ground. The female party then vandalized the victim’s vehicle.

Assault Continue reading Somerville Police Department Crime Activity →

Carlos N. Rivera passed away on January 11th, 2023, he was 38 years old. Carlos was born and raised in Somerville, and he was the cherished son of the late Carol Rivera and Carlos Adams.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Carlos Nemecio Rivera →

Claire Marie (O’Brien) Horrigan, formerly of Somerville, Mass, passed away on January 18, 2023 in Hampton, NH at the age of 96. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Claire Marie (O’Brien) Horrigan →

Shortly after 3 a.m. today Trooper Ryan Crumbaker, assigned to State Police-Milton, was patrolling Blue Hill Ave in Boston when he observed a gray BMW being operated at a high rate of speed before passing through a red traffic signal. Trooper Crumbaker caught up to the vehicle and stopped it at the intersection of McLellan Street. Continue reading TROOPERS ARREST MAN WITH MULTIPLE FIREARMS AFTER FOOT PURSUIT →

JOSEPH’S OBITUARY

Callinan, Joseph P. – Of Somerville, passed away on Saturday January 14, 2023 after a brief illness surrounded by his loving family. He was 52 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph P. Callinan →

Click on link below to read January 17th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition January 17th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading January 17th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

ANTHONY’S OBITUARY

Salvato, Anthony F.– Of Malden, passed away on January 12, 2023 at Beth Israel Hospital. He was 69 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Anthony F. Salvato →

Continue reading Summer At Northeast School of Ballet →

On Sunday February 5, the Middlesex County Council, American Legion together with Malden Post 69 and Medford Post 45 will conduct a ceremony to honor and remember the four chaplains that sacrificed their lives to save others.
Continue reading THE FOUR CHAPLAINS REMEMBERED →

HOMER “SONNY”‘S OBITUARY

U.S. Veteran
Kingsbury, Homer “Sonny”— 94,Of Somerville, passed away on January 15, 2023.
Born in Brighton. He was the son of the late Homer and Sarah (O’Hanley) Kingsbury. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Homer “Sonny” H. Kingsbury →

By Bob Katzen

“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused immense financial harm to millions of families and borrowers. The Biden Administration’s debt cancellation plan will help prevent student loan borrowers from needlessly suffering even more pandemic-related economic harm, including the devastating cascade of harms that follow from default. We are calling on the Supreme Court to uphold the Secretary’s authority to provide much-needed relief to people across the country who have been affected by this unprecedented pandemic.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and former Gov. Baker signed into law a bill that designates April 24 as Right Whale Day to promote the preservation of the critically endangered North Atlantic Right Whale. Continue reading RIGHT WHALE DAY (H 3869) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved, and former-Gov. Baker signed into law, a bill that would establish the second Tuesday of every October as “Inflammatory Breast Cancer Awareness Day” in the Bay State. Continue reading INFLAMMATORY BREAST CANCER (H 3147) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and former-Gov. Charlie Baker signed into law a bill establishing a foster parents’ bill of rights, which will govern the Department of Children and Families’ (DCF) relationship with, and responsibilities to foster parents, and would be publicly available on the department’s website. Continue reading FOSTER PARENTS (S 2954) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate both approved a bill that would require that the autopsy report for a child under the age of two be reviewed and approved by the Chief Medical Examiner to determine the cause of death. Continue reading DEATH OF A CHILD UNDER 2 (H 5422) →

By Bob Katzen

WRAPPING UP THE 2022 SESSION – Before the 2022 session ended on January 3, the House and Senate acted on several bills including:
REVENGE PORN (H 4498, S 3167) – The House and Senate approved different versions of a proposal that would prohibit the posting of sexually explicit images of another person online without their permission—commonly referred to as “revenge porn.” Continue reading WRAPPING UP THE 2022 SESSION →

By Bob Katzen

As the costs for basic necessities rise, more Massachusetts residents living on the economic margins must choose between buying groceries and paying for housing, transportation, childcare and other basic utilities. It’s a dilemma that plays out in hundreds of thousands of Massachusetts households every day. Hunger and access to proper nutrition remain pervasive, with nearly 1 in 3 adults experiencing food insecurity in Massachusetts in 2021. Continue reading FOOD INSECURITY EVENT →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division are pleased to announce two affordable homeownership opportunities to income-eligible, first-time homebuyers through the City’s Inclusionary Housing Program: one 3-bedroom unit at 411 Norfolk St. and one 1-bedroom unit at 432 Norfolk St. Both condos will be offered to households earning between 81% and 110% of the area median income (AMI). Continue reading Two Affordable Homeownership Opportunities in Somerville: 411 & 432 Norfolk St. →

HELEN’S OBITUARY

Helen T. Harris, a lifelong Somerville resident, passed away on January 11, 2023, she was 78. Born and raised in Somerville she was the cherished daughter of the late Winifred M. (Fahey) and Clifford F. Harris. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Helen T. Harris →

TIMOTHY’S OBITUARY

Rogan/Hardy, Timothy James, also known as T.J passed away suddenly from undetermined findings on December 29, 2022. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Timothy J. “TJ” Hardy →

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

Somerville Alert #2…Clarendon Hill Twrs. Bus Riders and All Bus Riders in the area: Please be extra cautious walking in the Clarendon Hill Twrs. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville City Councilors Please Do Your Jobs, MBTA bus terminal! Potholes, cracks, etc. →

Photos courtesy of Mayor Breanna Lungo Koehn’s Facebook Page

The Medford High School girls Varisty team had a big win today against Somerville High School at Tufts University’s winter classic! Continue reading Medford High School Girls Varisty Team Big Win Against Somerville High School at Tufts University’s Winter Classic →

Thirteen-Member Task Force Will Propose Model for Civilian Oversight Body in Somerville

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) today announces that it is seeking three Somerville community members to join RSJ’s Civilian Oversight Task Force. Task Force members will explore civilian oversight models for local law enforcement, gather data, and engage in research that will inform the future of a civilian oversight entity in Somerville, including its powers, duties, composition, and more.
Continue reading Somerville Department of Racial and Social Justice Announces Community Applications for Civilian Oversight Task Force →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Ward 7 Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld invite you to a virtual community meeting to learn about the City’s reconstruction of the intersection at Powder House Boulevard and Alewife Brook Parkway.
City contractors will reconstruct the existing traffic circle to create a T-shaped intersection with traffic signals. Construction will begin this winter and is expected to continue through the fall of 2024. Continue reading Powder House Boulevard and Alewife Brook Parkway Intersection Redesign Community Meeting, February 1, 2023 →

By Arthur Moore

Today I am making some eggplant. It is a nostalgic thing with me. A vivid memory of Park Street where we had so many wonderful neighbors and knew them and socialized with them. One day when coming home from the Central Hospital over 60 years ago my mother was not home. Continue reading Somerville, The Early Years →

Early Bird Special! 15% off Saturdays & Sundays 7AM-9AM (Dine in Only)

The Neighborhood Restaurant
25 Bow St, Somerville, MA 02143
Continue reading Neighborhood Restaurant Somerville Early Bird Special! 15% off Saturdays & Sundays 7AM-9AM (Dine in Only) →

It’s a disappointing shame that our elected officials are ignoring all of these horrific conditions for over so many years. It should have been dealt with and done with automatically without hesitation!

All of these elected officials they were CCed here in this letter, selfishly rallied for pay raises for themselves for their own personal gain. They even rallied for having the city hoof the bill for their own personal office staff!  Simply put “Greed!” Continue reading Letter from the Editor:Local Elected Officials Neglecting Safety and Health Conditions for First Responders →

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 Northeast School of Ballet (NSB)! →

Photos by Fox News

By William Tauro

Just when you thought we heard enough stupidity over the past few years, here we go again. Now the White House wants to ban natural gas cooking stoves! Just imagine an Italian restaurant trying to cook Chicken Cacciatore or a Chinese restaurant trying to cook Beef lo mein in a wok using an electric stove, not happening! Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Letter from the Editor:Kitchen Gas Cooking Stoves Soon to be Outlawed! →

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

Put this on full blast . 🛑🆘Everyone in 2023 has their own risks . We are all grownups and can figure this one out. When did the school commitee start making laws? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: When did the school commitee start making laws? →

By William Tauro

Does anybody know when the Registry of Deeds will be fully opened again on Cambridge Street? We know that the Covid19 Pandemic work remote at home was in 2019 but some took advantage of the situation and milked it and made it last at until the end of 2021, but for God sakes it’s 2023 and Maria is taking us all for a ride! Continue reading LETTER FROM THE EDITOR: WHY IS THE SOUTH MIDDLESEX REGISTRY OF DEEDS STILL PARTIALLY SHUT DOWN? MARIA IS USING TAXPAYERS! →

Click on link below to read January 10th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online January 10th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading January 10th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Join Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice to Honor the Legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Through Acts of Service Continue reading Somerville Hosting MLK Day of Service Youth Workshop and Community Clothing Drive →

On Thursday, January 5, 2022, I Officer Paul Beckford, was on duty for the Somerville Police (East 3). At approximately 10:38AM, Officer Robert Anaya (West 5) and I were dispatched to Sathi Convenience located at 153 Highland Ave for a shoplifter. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (A&B PO, Disorderly, Resisting Arrest, Shoplifting x 2) →

The following is a brief summary to incident #23000978.

Members of the Somerville Police Community Action Team along with Officers Thomas Lambert and Samir Messaoudi, initiated a drug investigation engineered by a Karl Maurice AKA Malachi (DOB XXXXXX), and his alleged role in the distribution of Crack Cocaine. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Cocaine, Trafficking in Over 14 Grams x 2; Drug, Distribute Class B, Subsq.) →

Richard M. Mangan, of Somerville, died suddenly on December 31, 2022, he was 64 years old. Son of the late Richard and Shirley (Silva) Mangan. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard M. Mangan →

BOSTON, January 6, 2023—The Massachusetts Democratic State Committee announces today that it has overwhelmingly endorsed legislation to legalize life-saving drug consumption care and grant municipalities the option of creating dedicated overdose prevention centers to combat the surge in fatal drug overdoses in Massachusetts. Continue reading State Democratic Party calls on lawmakers to decriminalize overdose prevention centers →

By Bob Katzen

Excerpts from Gov. Maura Healey’s inaugural speech

“I thank Gov. Baker, who has led this commonwealth with a steady hand. He has governed with integrity and care—eager to study problems and work together on solutions. The example he set for eight years was in the best traditions of public service, and it now becomes his legacy. Gov. Baker, I thank you, and our state thanks you.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate both approved a bill that would allow legislative governing bodies of cities and towns the option to expand the definition of local residency for civil service hiring preference to include anyone who received a high school diploma from a school in that city or town. Neither branch gave the measure final approval. Continue reading EXPAND CIVIL SERVICE OPTION FOR CITIES AND TOWNS (S 1661) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate on November 21, approved and sent to then-Gov. Baker legislation that would repeal a current state law which creates professional licensure consequences for anyone who defaults on their student loan. Under current law, a borrower’s state-issued professional or occupational certificate, registration or license can be suspended, revoked or canceled if the borrower is in default on an education loan.
Continue reading PROHIBIT REVOCATION OF PROFESSIONAL LICENSES (H 5195) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Baker signed into law a bill that would ensure that pregnant and postpartum mothers get necessary and potentially life-saving health care by extending MassHealth insurance coverage to 12 months after pregnancy. MassHealth is the state’s Medicaid program that provides health care for low-income and disabled persons. Continue reading PREGNANT AND POSTPARTUM (S 2731) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Baker signed into law legislation that would create a “chain of custody” for used catalytic converter sales. A catalytic converter is a device that converts the environmentally hazardous exhaust emitted by a vehicle’s engine into less harmful gases. Continue reading THEFT OF CATALYTIC CONVERTERS (S 3169) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Baker signed into law a bill that would protect vulnerable road users which includes pedestrians, construction workers, emergency responders bicyclists, skateboarders, roller skaters and wheelchair users. A key provision requires vehicle drivers, when passing a vulnerable user, to pass at a safe distance of not less than 4 feet. Continue reading REDUCED TRAFFIC FATALITIES AND PROTECT PEDESTRIANS AND BICYCLISTS (H 5103) →

By Bob Katzen

Last week was full of activity on Beacon Hill. The Legislature approved and sent to then-Gov. Charlie Baker, before his term was up, several bills passed on voice votes, without roll calls, prior to the end of the 2021-2022 session on Tuesday, January 3. Continue reading ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL, THE HOUSE AND SENATE: →

Majano Yanes, Luis- Of Somerville, passed away on January 1, 2023. He was 52. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Luis Majano Yanes →

HARDY, Gerda E. ( Krist) – Of Somerville January 7, 2023 surrounded by her family. Beloved wife of George J. Hardy. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Gerda E. Hardy →

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

I am done here. I am 100% into my move out of here now. We decided to rent an apartment outside of Somerville and sell our house. I am way overdue at doing this but it’s time while I still can. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: I do not wish to fight to stay in a city that now sucks big time →

Obituary for Thomas F. Botelho, Sr.

BOTELHO, Thomas F., Sr., of Dracut, formerly of Cambridge, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2023. Beloved husband of 65 years to Beverly A. (Nardone). Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Thomas F. Botelho, Sr. →

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

The 299 Broadway project now wants 79 parking permits.

Are you aware? I attended a zoom tonight and there were no neighbors talking against it.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: The 299 Broadway Project Corrupt Politics at its Best →

By William Tauro

While I applaud Governor Charlie Baker for pushing this bill into law before he left office this past week, just checking below on item number “3” and who carries the liability if a biker doesn’t have the red light if something goes wrong and a serious tragedy occurs. Your thoughts? Continue reading Letter from the Editor: “New Traffic Laws Mean Safer Roads for Bicycling!” →

January 3rd, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading January 3rd, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Massachusetts State Police Facebook page

State Police, Along With Local and Federal Law Enforcement Partners, Crush Two Drug Trafficking Organizations, Take More Than 6 Kilos of Fentanyl Off the Street

In a less than two-day period late last week, Massachusetts State Police narcotics and gang interdiction Troopers and MSP’s federal and local law enforcement partners in a joint task force dealt severe blows to two highly organized, high-volume drug trafficking organizations operating out of the Merrimack Valley, as well as to a Fall River-based street level drug operation supplied by one of the DTOs. The combined operations seized approximately 6 1/2 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, numerous pills, and a firearm, and resulted in several arrests, all in less than 48 hours. Continue reading State Police, Local and Federal Law Enforcement Partners, Crush Two Drug Trafficking Organizations, Take More Than 6 Kilos of Fentanyl Off the Street →

By Bob Katzen

“A goal of the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources is to help keep the state’s food supply safe and secure. By assisting farmers with grants and technical assistance, the Baker-Polito Administration is helping to modernize their operations, open new market channels and meet regulatory requirements that will directly benefit farmers and consumers of their products.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved a bill that would establish an Inflammatory Breast Cancer Awareness Day in Massachusetts, the second Tuesday of every October. Continue reading INFLAMMATORY BREAST CANCER (H 3147) →

By Bob Katzen

Effective January 1, 2023 the state’s minimum wage rises from $14.25 per hour to $15 per hour. This hike is the final one of five annual increases mandated by a law passed in 2018 that has brough the minimum wage from $11 per hour in 2018 to the current $15 per hour. Continue reading MINIMUM WAGE HIKE FROM $14.25 TO $15 PER HOUR EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1 →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would create a “chain of custody” for used catalytic converter sales. A catalytic converter is a device that converts the environmentally hazardous exhaust emitted by a vehicle’s engine into less harmful gasses. The measure requires the buyer to keep records of each converter purchased, from which vehicle it was removed from and who the seller was. Continue reading THEFT OF CATALYTIC CONVERTERS (S 3169) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved a proposal that would prohibit the posting of sexually explicit images of another person online without their permission—commonly referred to as “revenge porn.” The practice is often used by ex-spouses or ex-partners. Massachusetts is one of only two states that does not have a law about this crime.
Continue reading REVENGE PORN (S 3167) →

By Bob Katzen

Begnning with 2023 earnings, taxpayers who earn more than $1 million annually will pay an additional 4 percent income tax, in addition to the current flat 5 percent one, on their earnings of more than $1 million annually. Continue reading 4 PERCENT INCOME TAX HIKE ON EARNINGS OVER $1 MILLION ANNUALLY TAKES EFFECT JANUARY 1 →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, (House on a voice vote without a roll call), approved and Gov. Baker signed into law a bill designed to make mental health care more accessible in the Bay State. Continue reading ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE (S 3097) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, (House on a voice vote without a roll call), approved and Gov. Baker signed legislation giving equal access to original birth certificates to all persons born in Massachusetts. Continue reading ACCESS TO BIRTH CERTIFICATES (S 2294) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, (House on a voice vote without a roll call), approved and the governor signed into law a bill that repeals a law which prohibits adoption of children by family members including older siblings, aunts and uncles. The proposal would allow these family members, with the permission of the county probate courts, to legally adopt their family members. Current law only allows these family members to apply to become a guardian. Continue reading MAKE ADOPTION BY FAMILY MEMBERS EASIER (S 2616) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 38-0, (House on a voice vote without a roll call), approved and Gov. Charlie Baker signed into law legislation that would require EMS personnel to provide emergency treatment to a police dog and use an ambulance to transport the dog injured in the line of duty to a veterinary clinic or veterinary hospital if there are not people requiring emergency medical treatment or transport at that time. Continue reading ALLOW AMBULANCES TO BE USED FOR INJURED POLICE DOGS – NERO’S LAW (S 2573) →

By Bob Katzen

The governor, lt. governor, treasurer, secretary of state, attorney general, auditor, 40 senators and 160 representatives will all receive pay raises when they assume office on January 3, 2023.

Here’s how it all went down last week: Continue reading PAY HIKES FOR LEGISLATORS, MAURA HEALEY AND OTHERS →

A hundred local residents enjoyed a happier holiday thanks to a partnership between Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) and Agero, Inc. Continue reading MVES and Agero Spread Cheer With Giving Tree →

DEBRA’S OBITUARY

Pedrick, Debra A. — Of Everett and Somerville, passed away at the Kaplan Hospice House in Danvers on December 31, 2022. She was 67.
Complete obit to follow. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Debra A. Pedrick →

By William Tauro

Bike lanes are here and here to stay. In an ever-changing world and laws, bike lanes have been accepted nationwide and are a part of our society and which rightfully should be. Cities and towns have also received millions of dollars in grants from the federal government for installing bike lanes. But we still have a lot of kinks in the laws and regulations that have to be ironed out.
Continue reading Where Do We Draw The Unforeseeable Probability Liability Line In Case A Tragedy Does Occur In A Bike-Lane? →

Happy New Year 2023! May it be a healthy, happy and prosperous new year for all! Continue reading Happy New Year 2023 From the Publishers and Staff of the Somerville/Medford News Weekly →

By William Tauro

Nice of them to have invited the community “ in person “ to praise themselves and patting themselves on the back looking for votes for re-election . Continue reading Letter from the Editor:They only meet in person if it’s for their own benefit →

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

2022 marks the Sesquicentennial–the 150th Anniversary–of Somerville’s establishment as a City. This is a pretty significant milestone in my opinion. In 1972, the Centennial was observed with great fanfare which included a huge parade. Somerville was a less affluent city then, but it was rich in civic pride, having recently been named an All American City. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Too bad we couldn’t celebrate the 150th of our great city in a manner befitting its rich heritage and diverse culture →

We are cleaning and stuffing peppers everyday.

We have plenty of hots and sweets. We take pride in our peppers and making sure we clean and stuff them with love and more importantly we stuff them with the best quality cold cuts and cheese.

Carmella’s Market is a fully licensed and inspected food service business.
Continue reading www.carmellasmarket.com 86 Cottage Street East Boston MA Call 617.567.6373 to place your order →

Click on link below to read December 27th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online December 27th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading December 27th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By William Tauro

TLC President, David Smith hands Dr. Mouhab Rizkallah a plaque, which recognizes him for seven years as the major supporter of Toys for Local Children.
 
Dr. Mouhab Rizkallah addresses the crowd at the 17th TLC Gala, while his wife holds a picture that hangs in their home, and his children demonstrate what the caption “Nothing I hold Onto” looks like.
  Continue reading Thank You Dr. Mouhab Rizkallah – Toys For Local Children! →

By Arthur Moore

Number one; Finally solve the Cremins murder. Been way too long.

Number two; Every elected official makes a U turn and start working for the people of Somerville.
Continue reading Ten Hopes for the New Year in Somerville →

“The Hanover High School girls’ soccer team outnumbered the representatives present in Monday morning’s House session, as the House churned through mostly local matters.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

This bill requires all emergency response vehicles, including ambulances, fire apparatus, police vehicles and disaster vehicles, to be equipped with emergency thermal blankets—an aluminum film blanket typically used to treat shock or hypothermia by retaining body warmth and preventing heat loss. Continue reading EMERGENCY THERMAL BLANKETS BILL (H 3885) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill Requires security guards and watchmen to be licensed by the state.

Supporters say under current state law, there is no such thing as a security guard or watchman license. They note that guards and watchmen are regulated through their Massachusetts security employer which is officially called a Watch Guard Patrol Agency.
Continue reading LICENSING OF SECURITY GUARDS BILL (H 3798) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill Requires the Massachusetts Secretary of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Homeland Security and the Attorney General to establish regulations setting a penalty schedule for individuals making false marine distress calls. The penalties must include reimbursements by individuals making the false call of the costs incurred by the responding state agencies. Continue reading FALSE MARINE DISTRESS CALLS BILL (H 2458) →

By Bob Katzen

Adds an “attack on a police officer which results in serious injury or death” to the definition of a hate crime in Massachusetts. Continue reading HATE CRIME BILL (H 2443) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 153-0, Senate 39-0, approved and Gov. Baker signed legislation that would support military families who relocate to the Bay State by providing career stability for the spouses of service members and education for their children.
Continue reading BENEFITS FOR MILITARY FAMILIES (S 3075) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 153-0, Senate 40-0, approved and Gov. Baker signed a bill that would make major changes to the oversight and governance structure of the state’s veterans’ homes in Holyoke and Chelsea. The proposal follows the deaths of 77 veteran residents in 2020 as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak at the Holyoke facility. Continue reading SOLDIERS’ HOMES OVERSIGHT (H 5106) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 153-0, Senate 39-0, approved and the governor signed an $11.3 billion transportation and infrastructure package that includes $1.375 billion for the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) modernization and $1.27 billion for non-federally aided roads and bridges.
Continue reading $11.3 BILLION TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE PACKAGE (H 5151) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 126-29, Senate 37-3, approved and Gov. Baker signed into law a bill making permanent the mail-in and early voting options used in Massachusetts in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading ELECTION LAW CHANGES (S 2924) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-0, Senate 38-0, approved and Gov. Baker signed into law a $350 million package that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state to be distributed under the Chapter 90 program formula. Continue reading $350 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES AND MORE (H 4638) →

THOMAS’ OBITUARY

Thomas B. Buckley, of New Port Richey, Florida, passed away suddenly on December 14, 2022 he was 58. Born in Chicopee, MA he was the cherished son of the late James D. and Elizabeth (Kenneally) Buckley. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Thomas B. Buckley →

MARVIN’S OBITUARY

U.S. Veteran
Spitzer, Marvin H.— 101, Of Somerville passed away on December 20, 2022 in his home surrounded by family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marvin H. Spitzer →

Two Million in ARPA Funding Is Available for Area Nonprofits to Support Programs That Address Gender Pay Disparity, Particularly for Women of Color
Applications Will Be Accepted Until January 31, 2023
Continue reading Somerville Seeks Nonprofit Proposals to Help Close Gender Wage Gap →

By State Representative Christine P. Barber

After decades of advocacy, I was thrilled to celebrate the opening of the Green Line Extension through my district in Somerville and Medford last week. This public works project is the result of years of hard work from countless community members, laborers, activists, and colleagues at all levels of government. I’m proud that we made it to our opening day to celebrate this momentous occasion. Continue reading GLX is here! Celebrating and Looking Ahead →

Somerville community members are invited to join the Mid-Term Ceremonies on Tuesday, January 3, at 6 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers (93 Highland Ave.). Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne, City Council & School Committee to Deliver Mid-Term Addresses midterm graphic →

The City is now seeking proposals from nonprofit organizations that aim to address the gender wage gap, particularly for women of color who face the greatest pay disparity. Programs that create and maintain employment opportunities for low- and moderate-income women residing in the city are sought. Continue reading City Announces $2M for Projects to Help Close the Gender Wage Gap →

Residents are invited to participate in the City’s year-long cultural capacity planning process, which aims to explore ways to strengthen and improve access to Somerville’s cultural assets. Continue reading Participate in the City’s Cultural Planning Process →

Prepare for a safer holiday season and new year by making sure your COVID and flu vaccines are up to date. Continue reading Walk-In Vaccine Clinic, December 28 and January 4 & 11 →

All members of the community are invited to a ceremony for the anniversary of the nation’s first official flag raised atop Prospect Hill on New Year’s Day in 1776. Continue reading Somerville 247th Flag Raising, January 1 →