By Bob Katzen

CHARLIE RETURNS – Former Bay State Gov. Charlie Baker spoke at the UMass Club last week about his work as president of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the organization that regulates student athletics at some 1,100 schools in the United States, and one in Canada. Baker began his duties at the NCAA in March 2023 following his decision not to run for a third term as governor.
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell has filed a lawsuit in Suffolk Superior Court against TikTok for intentionally designing its social media platform to be addictive and harmful to young users and deceiving the public about its efforts to keep its platform safe.
Continue reading ATTORNEY GENERAL CAMPBELL FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST TIK TOK →

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Association for Community Action (MASSCAP) announced that it has been awarded $600,000 in federal funds to extend for another year, the federal diaper pilot program that provides diapers for low-income families. The $600,000 is on top of the original $1.2 million grant that funded the program for two years. MASSCAP has operated the program with 16 agencies across Massachusetts and Connecticut to distribute over two million diapers to low-income families.
Continue reading ADDITIONAL $600,000 TO FUND DIAPERS FOR CHILDREN PROGRAM →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters say would simplify and modernize child custody jurisdiction laws in the Bay State.

Supporters, noting Massachusetts is the only one of the 50 states that has not opted into this law, argued the pact will make the Bay State’s interstate custody laws consistent with the 49 other states. They noted the bill would create clear rules that would be established for multi-state custody cases, prioritizing the home state of the child and ensuring Massachusetts courts can work effectively with courts in other states, nationally and in other countries for international child custody orders.
Continue reading CHILD CUSTODY (S 2961) →

By Bob Katzen

Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northamtpon) is urging the Legislature to take further action on her bill that would change Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples Day in Massachusetts. The measure would require that the day be “observed by the people, with appropriate exercises in the schools and otherwise, to acknowledge the history of genocide and discrimination against Indigenous peoples, and to recognize and celebrate the thriving cultures and continued resistance and resilience of Indigenous peoples and their tribal nations.” Rep. Christine Barber (D-Somerville) sponsored the same proposal in the House.
Continue reading CHANGE COLUMBUS DAY TO INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY (S 1976 and H 2989) →

Driven by data, transformative project aims to bring safer walking, biking, rolling, and driving to high-crash street

SOMERVILLE—Most people are well aware of the speed limit on the streets they use, but three other important numbers that define each street are driving road safety efforts in Somerville: the number of crashes, the number of vehicles and pedestrians, and the average vehicle speed. This data helped make clear the need for the new West Broadway Reconstruction safety project.

Continue reading Somerville Set to Release Updated Plans for West Broadway with October 22 Community Open House →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is pleased to share that the City of Somerville has created a new web page where voters can look up their current address
to verify their ward and polling place ahead of the November 2024 Presidential Election.
Continue reading Somerville Launching VoteSomerville Tool for Voters to Verify Their Ward and Polling Place →

Vigil will be Held Wednesday, October 30, at 6 p.m. at East Somerville Library

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, the Somerville Commission for Women, RESPOND, Inc., the Somerville Public Library, and the Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) invite residents to attend the City’s annual Domestic Violence Vigil on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. This annual vigil is dedicated to commemorating the lives lost to domestic violence in the past year, recognizing the strength of survivors, and renewing our community’s dedication to eradicating domestic violence. Continue reading Somerville Inviting Community to Join Annual Vigil Honoring Victims of Domestic Violence →

Competitive compensation updates, expanded educational and training incentives, new specialty positions codified in new union contract

SOMERVILLE—Mayor Katjana Ballantyne on behalf of the City of Somerville has reached an agreement with Local 76, the union representing Somerville firefighters, for a contract that will provide updated compensation and benefits and help modernize aspects of the Department’s operations. The new contract provides competitive annual wage increases, expanded opportunities for incentive pay tied to specialty positions, advanced education, and training, and a new sick leave benefit. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announces New Firefighter’s Union Agreement Enhancing Pay, Benefits, and Training and Education Incentives for Firefighters Local 76 →

Final SomerStreets Festival of the Year Will Be Held on Sunday, October 20. Event Will Feature Live Music, Family-Friendly Activities, and More!

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council (SAC) are inviting the community to join the final SomerStreets festival of the year, the spooky and fun “Monster
Mash” on Sunday, October 20, from 2 to 6 p.m. (rain date Oct 27) on Somerville Ave. between School St. and Warren Ave.

Continue reading Join SomerStreets Spooktacular “Monster Mash” →

MEGAN, William J. “Billy”, Sr., Lifelong resident of Cambridge, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering William J. Megan Sr →

Have you heard the most recent NEWS about the South Middlesex Registry of deeds?

Two Separate News Stories were report on September 30th and October 7th Alleging fixing deeds to deprive other family Members of Real Estate Property Worth Millions of dollars.
Continue reading My Opponent Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone Making All The Wrong Headlines! →

What elected official in their right mind ever endorse her? If they do they are part of the problem! Continue reading Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone Making All The Wrong Kinds of Headlines! →

VOTE William “Billy” Tauro Middlesex County Register of Deeds Nov 5th

One of our most important institutions that is constantly forgotten is the Registry of Deeds.
We are only reminded of this elected office when securing property or concluding a transaction involving real estate. Then, it becomes the most important focus in the business of the day..
Continue reading Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone Making All The Wrong Kinds of Headlines! →

At Thursday’s luncheon meeting at the Mount Vernon Restaurant, outgoing Secretary Paul Upton was presented the Kiwanis “Governor’s Exemplary Secretary” award by President Tom Austin Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis News Updates →

One of our most important institutions that is constantly forgotten is the Registry of Deeds.
We are only reminded of this elected office when securing property or concluding a transaction involving real estate. Then, it becomes the most important focus in the business of the day..
Continue reading “I’m with Billy” VOTE William “Billy” Tauro Middlesex County Register of Deeds Nov 5th →

Obituary
Ciampa, Diana (D’Angelo)- Of Somerville, passed away on Monday, October 7, 2024 after a brief illness. She was 78 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Diana M. Ciampa →

Obituary

Raymond Joseph, born in Cayes, Hati, MA, on October 22, 1937, passed away on October 8, 2024 in Somerville, Massachusetts, after a long illness. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Raymond Joseph →

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 10TH
Doors Open: 2-5 PM Continue reading SECOND ANNUAL COMEDY FUNDRAISER ELAINE PELINO & FRIENDS →

Elizabeth M. “Betty” Smith (Kelley)
Of Somerville, formerly of South Boston, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2024. Betty was the beloved wife of Emmet F. “Frank” Smith, with whom she shared one of the greatest love stories ever told. They met and lived in Boston, later moving to Glenwood Rd in Somerville where they raised their children. Betty lived there until she was 91. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Elizabeth M. “Betty” Smith (Kelley) →

By William Tauro

Tonight at my Fundraiser for Middlesex County Registrar of Deeds, miraculously I spoke with a close family member of an alleged killer of Deanna Cremin who put her trust in me to take a DNA sample to close this case once and for all.
Continue reading Family Member of Alleged Murderer of Deanna Cremin Agrees to DNA Samples to Solve Case →

Click on link below to read October 8th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online October 8th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading October 8th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne recently announced the members of the Somerville School Construction Advisory Group. Over the course of an in-depth process, members will develop a recommendation to the Mayor on both the location and scope of a renovated or new school to meet the needs of the Winter Hill Community Innovation School and potentially the Benjamin G. Brown School. Continue reading Construction Advisory Group Members Announced for Winter Hill and Brown Schools Planning →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Division of Public Space and Urban Forestry (PSUF) are proud to announce the release of the City’s comprehensive Pollinator Action Plan, a community-driven initiative aimed at supporting pollinator species within the city’s urban environment. Continue reading Somerville Releases Groundbreaking Pollinator Action Plan →

Somerville’s Mobile Farmers Market is selling fresh, local produce through October 26.

The market accepts cash, debit cards, SNAP, Fresh Connect, WIC Farmers Market coupons, and Senior Farmers Market coupons. All are welcome.
Continue reading Somerville Mobile Farmer’s Market →

(Somerville, MA) For the fourteenth consecutive year, Naveo Credit Union participated in the Miracle Jeans Day initiative to raise funds for Boston Children’s Hospital, its local Miracle Network hospital. During the month of September, Naveo joined hundreds of organizations and raised funds from employees and members. Naveo then matched the employee donations for a total donation of $600.. Continue reading Naveo Credit Union raises $600 for Boston Children’s Hospital through the Miracle Jeans Day initiative →

By Bob Katzen

“When employers violate our laws, including crucial protections for sick time that enable workers to take care of themselves and their families, vulnerable workers across the commonwealth are unfairly harmed. I am proud of my team for their work, which will not only provide meaningful financial restitution to these workers but will also remind employers that Massachusetts is serious about protecting its workforce.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey attached an emergency preamble to the bill, recently signed by the governor, that changed some of the state’s gun laws. The emergency preamble makes the law take effect immediately instead of on Oct. 23 as originally scheduled. The move came on the heels of the announcement of a campaign to repeal the law by gathering the 37,287 signatures required to place it on the 2026 ballot.
Continue reading HEALEY BLOCKS SUSPENSION OF GUN LAW CHANGES →

By Bob Katzen

The state officially launched MassEducate which allows Massachusetts residents who do not already hold a bachelor’s degree the opportunity to attend any of the state’s 15 public community colleges and pay no tuition or fees.

Continue reading FREE COMMUNITY COLLEGE TUITION →

By Bob Katzen

Rep. Simon Cataldo (D-Concord) and Sen. John Velis (D-Westfield) have been appointed by House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy) and Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland) to lead the state’s new Commission On Combating Antisemitism.
Continue reading COMMISSION TO COMBAT ANTISEMITISM →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate gave final approval to and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a bill that would ban the Department of Children and Families (DCF) from prohibiting placement of a child in a foster home solely based on the presence of any specific breed of dog in the home. The bill also updates animal cruelty and abuse reporting regulations for human services employees or contractors.
Continue reading FOSTER HOMES AND DOGS (H 4911) →

Joker 2 (Joker: Folie à Deux) is a musical revolving around courtroom drama, jail life and a romance between Lady Gaga as Harley Quinn and Joaquin Phoenix as the Joker. There is so much music, in fact, by the end you’ll be bracing yourself for a song to start during almost any scene. Besides that, the movie turns into a courtroom drama where the focus is whether or not Arthur Fleck truly has a split personality as the Joker. Continue reading Joker: Folie à Deux by Marco Cuda →

Dear Editor and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,

I was just reading your article on a page I am on in regards to Marie Curtatone and how she is being accused of recording a fraudulent deed. I am having problems with a will/trust that my grandmother left and I feel someone (her nephew) is trying to take my inheritance from her. He is very close friends with Maria and Joe Curtatone. His name is Sean, a former Somerville attorney.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Another Alleged Forged Deeds Scheme Accusation Regarding Current Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone‘s South Middlesex Registry of Deeds →

SOMERVILLE— The Ward 6 City Hall Meeting has been rescheduled and will now be held on Monday, October
21. The meeting will take place at Somerville Community Baptist Church, 31 College Ave., on
Monday, Oct. 21, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Please join us as well for a half-hour meet and greet with pizza and snacks starting at 6 p.m. with the Mayor, staff, and your neighbors.

Continue reading Ward 6 City Hall Meeting Rescheduled to Monday, Oct. 21 →

We are writing today with important updates as we continue navigating the challenges surrounding NSB’s home at 32 Lowell Street. One piece of good news is that, on September 26th, the turret that collapsed in late August, is in the process of being wrapped with scaffolding around it to secure the building. This is made possible by the Cecere Family who own the building. When this work is complete, we will be able to re-enter NSB’s studio space safely on Monday, October 7th.
Continue reading Northeast School of Ballet →

We are writing today with important updates as we continue navigating the challenges surrounding NSB’s home at 32 Lowell Street. One piece of good news is that, on September 26th, the turret that collapsed in late August, is in the process of being wrapped with scaffolding around it to secure the building. This is made possible by the Cecere Family who own the building. When this work is complete, we will be able to re-enter NSB’s studio space safely on Monday, October 7th.
Continue reading Northeast School of Ballet →

Click on link below to read October 1st, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online October 1st, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading October 1st, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“I was a little bit outraged by the fact that her opponent declared himself the winner when he knew there were ballots that had to be counted.”
—House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy) commenting on a statement on primary election night on September 3 by challenger Evan MacKay declaring a 40-vote victory over incumbent Rep. Marjorie Decker (D-Cambridge). After all the ballots were counted, Decker in fact was declared the winner.
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The Healey administration announced that $5 million in grant are available to support the purchase of firefighter turnout gear, fire suppression equipment, and other related items by local cities and towns. Continue reading $5 MILLION FOR FIREFIGHTER SAFETY GRANTS →

By Bob Katzen

The Healey administration announced it has awarded some $12.4 million in federal traffic safety funds for programs to promote safer roads in across the state.

“These programs, taken together, represent a holistic approach to addressing road safety concerns,” said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll. “No one agency or approach can resolve these issues, but the combination of prevention, enforcement, education and outreach initiatives funded through these grants will ensure safer roads for all in Massachusetts.” Continue reading 12.4 MILLION FOR ROAD SAFETY →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved a House-approved bill that prohibits the Department of Children and Families (DCF) from prohibiting placement of a child in a foster home solely based on the presence of any specific breed of dog in the home. The bill also updates animal cruelty and abuse reporting regulation for human services employees or contractors.
Continue reading FOSTER HOMES AND DOGS (H 4911) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey signed into law legislation that would leverage the interest from the state’s Rainy Day Fund to better compete for federal dollars, to ensure the state receives the maximum possible share of federal funds and to pay down the state’s long term debt liabilities. The Rainy Day Fund currently has a historic balance of $8.2 billion. Continue reading USE INTEREST FROM STATE’S “RAIN DAY FUND” TO LEVERAGE FEDERAL FUNDS (S 2954) →

Advisory Group meetings and broad public process to launch in October; First meeting is Oct. 8

SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is announcing the members of the Somerville School Construction Advisory Group. Over the course of an in-depth process, members will develop a recommendation to the Mayor on both the location and scope of a renovated or
new school to meet the needs of the Winter Hill Community Innovation School and potentially the Benjamin G. Brown School. Continue reading School Construction Advisory Group Membership for Winter Hill and Brown Planning Announced →

New Security Measures and Expanded Support Resources Implemented to Support Safe Environment for Patrons and Staff

SOMERVILLE – The Central Branch of the Somerville Public Library will resume its regular hours of operation beginning Wednesday, October 2.
Continue reading Somerville Central Library to Resume Normal Hours Starting Wednesday, October 2 →

I sit on the Veterans Commission for Somerville and we are looking for community support for our Veterans Day event: food, Anthem singer, goody bags items….please call me at your earliest convenience. Thank you. Continue reading Somerville Veterans Commission Seeking Your Help →

Obituary
Richard C. Kinne, of Somerville passed away suddenly on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, following an operation. He was 59 years old. Richard was the beloved son of the late Dale R. and Barbara A. (Connor) Kinne.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard C. Kinne →

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

Hi Billy that same store got robbed at knife point once again at 6.15 pm & got away with $600. fyi thought u may like to no scoop that’s the 3rd time since they opened now have a good day sir.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:NEW BOSTON CONVENIENT STORE ROBBED AT KNIFE POINT AGAIN →

We are excited to announce that New England Security will be hosting a Job Fair on Saturday, October 5th, 2024. Continue reading WE ARE HIRING →

Megalopolis is a fun, yet tiring, memorable film with a good heart.

Megalopolis is a movie that at times comes off as random and after two and a quarter hours it doesn’t get old but it can be tiring. For a movie that struggles to find or stay on a single narrative at any given time, it doesn’t exactly find any lulls but it feels like it will never end. Continue reading Megalopolis Review by Marco Cuda →

Dear Editor,

Family members of the late Jennie C. Carvello are calling foul and alleging that Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone allegedly used the influence of her office for a deceitful scheme to defraud other beneficiaries, then waiting a long period of time after the death of the property owner to record the documents at the Registry of Deeds in Cambridge where Curtatone oversees as registrar.
Continue reading FAMILY OF DECEASED AUNT ACCUSING MIDDLESEX COUNTY REGISTER OF DEEDS MARIA CURTATONE OF ALLEGED WRONGDOING FOR FIXING A FRIEND’S DEED TO DEPRIVE OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS OF PROPERTY OWNERSHIP SHARES →

Spend five-25 minutes to listen to this one-on-one audio interview below by a close family member of the Curtatones and let it sink in. The interview tells how my opponent South Middlesex Registrar of Deeds Maria Curtatone continuously assaults and beats up her own elderly mother. Absolutely disgusting!
Continue reading LIVING CURTATONE IN SOMERVILLE, THE TRUTH REVEALED OF ALLEGED CRIMES CARRIED OUT AND COVERED UP By Maria Curtatone Register of Deeds →

Continue reading Congratulations Somerville High School Boys Varsity Soccer Team for their Saturday Win vs Haverhill. →

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

Hey, Did you hear there’s a question on the November ballot to double the CPA your property taxes from 1.5% to 3%? Seem the Administration is trying to slide this one in. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: November ballot Question to double the CPA your property taxes from 1.5% to 3% →

Your thoughts?

By William Tauro

At about 11:30 AM today Thursday, September 26th, I was stopped at the red light at the intersection on Broadway at Franklin Street waiting for the light to turn green when I noticed a Somerville Police Officer beginning to physically struggle with a homeless man at the corner in front of the Amigo’s Market. Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Somerville Police Officer Assaulted on Broadway →

Continue reading GoodNight Johnnys (781) 430-4968 →

Click on link below to read September 24th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online September 24th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading September 24th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Click on link below to see video
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On September 11th, 2024, a seemingly minor incident—a single sprinkler malfunction—triggered an extraordinary response from the city of Medford. Instead of addressing the issue proportionately, the city inspector delivered a set of demands so extreme that they’ve left the congregation of Vida Real Church reeling. The church, led by Pastor Luis Morales, is now being told that its entire 19,000-square-foot building must be overhauled. The city is insisting on a complete rewiring of the electrical system, removal of baseboards, and the suspension of all services—over a single sprinkler mishap.
Continue reading Religious Discrimination or Hidden Agenda? Pastor Launches Hunger Strike as Medford Mayor Faces Allegations Over Church Targeting →

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Click on link below to see video
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By William Tauro

On September 11th, 2024, a seemingly minor incident—a single sprinkler malfunction—triggered an extraordinary response from the city of Medford. Instead of addressing the issue proportionately, the city inspector delivered a set of demands so extreme that they’ve left the congregation of Vida Real Church reeling. The church, led by Pastor Luis Morales, is now being told that its entire 19,000-square-foot building must be overhauled. The city is insisting on a complete rewiring of the electrical system, removal of baseboards, and the suspension of all services—over a single sprinkler mishap.
Continue reading Religious Discrimination or Hidden Agenda? Pastor Launches Hunger Strike as Medford Mayor Faces Allegations Over Church Targeting →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey and Attorney General Andrea Campbell released updated guidance to K-12 schools on how to address hate and bias-motivated incidents consistent with their legal obligations.

According to the report, “The guidance comes amid a rise in antisemitism, racism, anti-LGBTQ+ hate, Islamophobia and hate across the globe, the country and Massachusetts – including a rise in hate-fueled assaults, incidents of white supremacist propaganda, discriminatory bullying and harassment in Massachusetts K-12 schools.”
Continue reading This Week’s Quotable Quotes On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR) announced it will administer a tax amnesty program that will run from November 1 through December 30, 2024. The program was part of the fiscal 2025 budget approved by the Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Healey on July 29.
Continue reading TAX AMNESTY PROGRAM →

By Bob Katzen

Attorney General Andrea Campbell announced the creation of the first-ever Youth Council to advise her office about critical issues facing youth and help the council members build skills as leaders and advocates. The council would be comprised of 18 members between the ages of 14-18 from regions across the state.
Continue reading ATTORNEY GENERAL CAMPBELL’S YOUTH COUNCIL →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a $362 million budget to help close out fiscal year 2024 that ended on July 31. Key provisions ratify and fund some 38 collective bargaining agreements and direct $228 million in funding for the American Rescue Plan Act Home and Community Based Services before a deadline that would require Massachusetts to return the money to Washington, D.C.
Continue reading $362 MILLION SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 5050) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey legislation that would leverage the interest from the state’s Rainy Day Fund to better compete for federal dollars, to ensure the state receives the maximum possible share of federal funds and to pay down the state’s long term debt liabilities. The Rainy Day Fund currently has a historic balance of $8.2 billion.
Continue reading USE INTEREST FROM STATE’S “RAIN DAY FUND” TO LEVERAGE FEDERAL FUNDS (S 2954) →

By Bob Katzen

THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week. This week, Beacon Hill Roll Call reports on the percentage of times local representatives voted with their party’s leadership in the 2024 session through September 20.

Beacon Hill Roll Call uses 101 votes from the 2024 House session as the basis for this report. This includes all roll calls that were not quorum calls or votes on local issues. Quorum calls are used to gather a majority of members onto the House floor to conduct business and members simply vote “present” in order to indicate their presence in the chamber.
Continue reading THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week →

City will offer a variety of ways to get involved in this redesign of Pearl Street (McGrath Highway to Medford) which aims to increase safety.

SOMERVILLE—As part of the City’s intensive efforts to improve street safety for all, community engagement and design for the
City’s reconstruction of Western Pearl Street is getting underway. All are invited to help inform this project which will bring increased safety, accessibility, and sustainability to Pearl Street between McGrath Highway and Medford Street.
Continue reading Somerville Launches Western Pearl Street Reconstruction Project with Oct 9 Virtual Community Meeting →

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Arts Council, in partnership with the Program on Georgian Studies at Harvard University’s Davis Center, invites the community to attend a unique cultural exchange project, Exchanging Notes.

This free event features performances by four talented artists from Somerville and Georgia, blending dance and percussion to celebrate the richness of both cultures. Continue reading Join the Final Presentation & Performance for Exchanging Notes: Dance and Drums from Somerville and Tbilisi, Georgia →

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Urban Forestry Committee is seeking two new members to help shape the future of our city’s urban canopy! We have one open position for a youth member (ages 14-17 at the time of appointment) and another position open to any resident passionate about urban forestry and public green spaces.
Continue reading Join the Somerville Urban Forestry Committee →

Obituary

Darleen DiStasio, of Danvers, passed away after a brief illness on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the age of 67. Born in Medford and raised in Somerville, she was the beloved daughter of the late Romeo and Mary (Kehoe) DiStasio
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Darleen DiStasio →

Community Members Ages 12 and Older Can Submit and Vote on Ideas for How to Invest $1 Million in City Improvement Projects

Idea submissions to be accepted from September 20 to November 20, 2024 Continue reading Somerville Launching Second Cycle of Participatory Budgeting →

Obituary
Barbara A. (Cummings) Cullinane, a longtime resident of Somerville, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2024, at Santa Maria Nursing Center in Cambridge. She was 94. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Barbara A. (Cummings) Cullinane →

By William Tauro

On September 11th, 2024, a seemingly minor incident—a single sprinkler malfunction—triggered an extraordinary response from the city of Medford. Instead of addressing the issue proportionately, the city inspector delivered a set of demands so extreme that they’ve left the congregation of Vida Real Church reeling. The church, led by Pastor Luis Morales, is now being told that its entire 19,000-square-foot building must be overhauled. Continue reading Religious Discrimination or Hidden Agenda? Pastor Launches Hunger Strike as Medford Mayor Faces Allegations Over Church Targeting →

By William Tauro

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is now having the City of Somerville utilizing a road paving technique called “Partial Paving!” This technique of paving in past years in other cities and towns has proven not to be the right decision. Paving just the center drive lane strip and not the two parking lanes will create a lip at the edge of the pavement.
Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Partial Paving” In Somerville A Bad Decision →

Kathleen April Capps, 39, of Anoka, Minnesota tragically passed away Tuesday, September 3rd.

Kathleen was born on April 22nd, 1985, to mother Patricia and father Kendall Capps in Burbank, California. Yet, the Capps family moved to Massachusetts, when Kathleen was a baby.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kathleen April Capps →

One of our most important institutions that is constantly forgotten is the Registry of Deeds.
We are only reminded of this elected office when securing property or concluding a transaction involving real estate. Then, it becomes the most important focus in the business of the day..

I plan to restore the integrity and accountability, that the Registry of Deeds should have at all times. But, has faltered, even prior to the covid epidemic. Continue reading VOTE William “Billy” Tauro Middlesex County Register of Deeds Nov 5th →

Obituary

Mrs. Kathleen A. (Dowd) Malone, of Reading and formerly of Charlestown passed away at home on September 17, 2024. She was 85. Kathleen was one of eight children born to Hannah (Needham) and Frank Dowd. As a single mother, she was devoted to raising her family and did so while also working full time as the executive assistant to the president of Northeastern University.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kathleen A. (Dowd) Malone →

Greetings,

We are excited to announce that our department will be hosting a FREE Monthly Veterans Breakfast (flyer attached for details) to show appreciation and provide an opportunity for fellowship with our local veterans. Continue reading Somerville Veterans Services FREE Monthly Veterans Breakfast →

You’re invited to the Feed the Need Harvest Party on Wednesday, October 23, hosted by Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES)! Enjoy a delicious meal, live entertainment and more, all while supporting a worthy cause.
Continue reading MVES to Host “Feed the Need” Fundraiser Harvest Party Will Support Mystic Valley Elder Services’ Efforts in the Community →

By William Tauro

Somerville and Medford Police officers were dispatched to an accident that happened earlier Friday afternoon, September 20th at 459 Broadway next to the intersection of Braemire Road and Broadway near the Somerville and Medford line.
Continue reading Driving School Vehicle Collision Ends Up As Rollover →

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

Since when is this a ticket? Have the city’s leaders of Somerville gone crazy? This was on Knapp Street in Somerville. These people have lost it. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:This City Is Getting So Foolish! →

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Continue reading VOTE William “Billy” Tauro Middlesex County Registrar of Deeds Nov 5th →

Spend five-25 minutes to listen to this one-on-one audio interview below by a close family member of the Curtatones and let it sink in. The interview tells how my opponent South Middlesex Registrar of Deeds Maria Curtatone continuously assaults and beats up her own elderly mother. Absolutely disgusting!

thesomervillenewsweekly

Stream Life With The Curtatones Interview by Somerville News Weekly on desktop and mobile. Play over 320 million tracks for free on SoundCloud.
Source: SoundCloud
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By William Tauro

Recently I sat down with a 1-on-1 interview with Barbara Curtatone who wanted to reveal 28 years of alleged criminal acts carried out by the Curtatone clan. Continue reading Living Curtatone In Somerville, The Truth Revealed of Alleged Crimes Carried Out and Covered Up →

Ms. Rita A. Grassi

September 12, 2024

Rita Grassi of East Cambridge passed away peacefully at Beth Israel Hospital on September 10th. Rita was the daughter of the late Manfredi Grassi and Mary A. (Pasquariello) Grassi. She was the cherished sister, best friend and confidante to her sister, Mary Grassi, loving sister to brother Anthony and his wife Kelley, and brother Joseph and his wife Dawn. Continue reading Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering Rita A. Grassi →

Click on link below to read September 17th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online September 17th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Continue reading September 17th, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Just Sayin’

Recently I had the pleasure of honoring Veterans at the Somerville Winter Hill Yacht Club…good food and spirit among GREAT CAPTAINS AND BOATS! We look forward to saying thanks in many ways. I must admit that after looking at news, issues, movements…much attention goes to selfish and social needs. I support VETS coming into my class and relate their duties to Writing skills and demands of them.
Continue reading As The City Of Medford Turns →

By Bob Katzen

“[She] committed gross misconduct and demonstrated she is unable to discharge the powers and duties of a Cannabis Control Commission commissioner. I do so with deep regret because she has a long history of public service, and when appointed I anticipated she would lead the commission capably and in an appropriate manner. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Healey a $362 million to help close out fiscal year 2024. Key provisions ratify and fund some 38 collective bargaining agreements and direct $228 million in funding for the American Rescue Plan Act Home and Community Based Services.
Continue reading $362 MILLION SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 5050) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a bill adding 225 new alcohol licenses for the City of Boston over the next three years.
Continue reading ADD 225 LIQUOR LICENSES (H 5039) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law legislation that would rename the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission to MassAbility, a change that supporters say will better define the agency’s role in supporting residents with disabilities to live independently. They said the legislation also removes outdated and offensive terminology in the Massachusetts General Laws like changing “handicap” to “barrier;” “handicapped” to “person with a disability;” and “retarded,” to “person with an intellectual disability.”
Continue reading RENAME THE MASSACHUSETTS REHABILITATION COMMISSION (S 2941) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a bill that would allow the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to establish rules and regulations for dog kennels in the Bay State, to ensure animal welfare, protect consumers and keep kennel staff safe. A person who violates the regulations would be fined $500 for a first offense and $1,000 for a second or subsequent offense.
Continue reading DOG KENNEL SAFETY – OLLIE’S LAW (S 2929) →

By Bob Katzen

The percentage next to the senator’s name represents the percentage of times the senator supported his or her party’s leadership so far in 2024 through September 13. The number in parentheses represents the number of times the senator opposed his or her party’s leadership.
Continue reading SENATORS’ SUPPORT OF THEIR PARTY’S LEADERSHIP IN 2024 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 13 →

Following critical utility work, interim paving will support safe travel prior to the full redesign of Highland Avenue

SOMERVILLE–Beginning Sunday, September 15 at 8 p.m. City contractors plan to pave the travel lane (approximately 28-feet wide) surface along Highland Avenue between School Street and Benton Road.
Continue reading Second Stretch of Highland Avenue Paving Takes Place Overnight September 15 to 16 from School Street to Benton Road →

Obituary

Mrs. Joan E. (Vangel) Cosgrove, a lifelong Somerville resident, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on September 10, 2024, she was 90. Born and raised in Somerville she was the only daughter of Ellen J. (MacDonald) and James Vangel. Known affectionately as “Joanie” by her family and friends, she was the beloved wife of the late Charles M. Cosgrove.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joan E. (Vangel) Cosgrove →

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Arts Council is actively seeking three to four dedicated community members to join its Board. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals with a passion for the arts to support and strengthen the vibrant cultural landscape of our city.
Continue reading Join the Somerville Arts Council Board Applications Due Thursday, October 10 →

Obituary

Jefferson, Jr. Harry I.- Harry was born in Boston, MA to Harry Jefferson and Joan (Gallagher) Jefferson. He was raised in Cambridge. Harry attended Longfellow public elementary school and received his high school diploma from Charles River Academy also in Cambridge. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Jefferson, Jr. Harry I. →

Obituary

Roderick, Regina (Cerasale) – Of Somerville, passed away after a long illness on Saturday, September 14, 2024. She was 85.

Born in Boston and raised in Somerville, she was the daughter of the late James and Kathleen (Goddard) Cerasale.Regina was deeply rooted in her Catholic faith, and her life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to service and compassion. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Roderick, Regina (Cerasale) →

Obituary
Jean M. (Scales) Bando, a cherished resident of Medford for many years, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at the age of 88. Born in Tewksbury, she was the beloved daughter of the late Leo and Catherine (Riley) Scales.

Complete obit to be posted. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Jean M. (Scales) Bando →

Robert Cullen Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Dello Russo Funeral Home – Medford on Sep. 12, 2024.
Robert E. Cullen, Jr., “Bobby” of Medford passed away on September 10, 2024. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert Cullen →

Tap on the link and check out and enjoy the show of our first TV interview regarding political corruption and our campaign for Registrar of Deeds Southern Middlesex County!
Continue reading William “Billy” Tauro’s first TV interview regarding political corruption and our campaign for Registrar of Deeds Southern Middlesex County →

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

Billy the homeless are moving into other areas of the city. They have returned under 93 at the crosswalk from the hotel to Stop n Shop. Sadly the Gilman Square Park has three homeless men staying there. The City has had to remove the portable potty and the water station as a result.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: homeless are moving into other areas of the city! →

Rosemary Ryan, 72, of Salem, NH, formerly Somerville, MA, passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024, in her home with her loving husband by her side. She was born on August 16, 1952, to the late Harry (Mickey)and Helen (Davis) Ventre, in Cambridge, MA. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rosemary Ryan →

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

Hi Billy,

FYI I thought that you might like to know that the New Boston Convenient Store that’s located at 6 Broadway Charlstown on the Somerville/Charlestown boarder next to the Mount Vernon Restaurant was robbed at knife point yesterday. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: New Boston Convenient Store Robbed at Knife Point →

Official Press release sent out by Deanna , Bobby and Paul

There will be a peaceful protest and rally held on the steps of the Statehouse. We need our state’s leadership to start paying attention and stop looking the other way Continue reading Massachusetts State House Rally/Protest →

James Finigan
9/10/2024

James “Jim” Finigan, age 83, of Medford died peacefully on Tuesday, September 10th, at Massachusetts General Hospital of Boston. Born in Cambridge, he was raised and educated in Somerville, the son of the late Michael and Elizabeth (Reidy) Finigan. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James Finigan →

Congratulations Somerville Police Officer Priscilla Ribeiro and thank you for a job well done!

Officer Priscilla Ribeiro was awarded the Arthur W. Regan Award today for her initiative and leadership in bringing National Night Out back to Somerville. The Artie Regan Memorial Award is given to an SPD Employee whose work in the community goes beyond the call of duty. Continue reading SPD Officer Priscilla Ribeiro awarded the Arthur W. Regan Award for her initiative and leadership in bringing National Night Out back to Somerville →

Assault
24052808: On 8/29/24 at approximately 7:15 PM, Somerville Housing Police responded to Weston Ave for report of a past assault. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated he invited a male party inside his apartment and the male party threatened him with an object. Officers identified the male suspect.
Continue reading Somerville Police Department Crime Log 8/27/24 – 9/2/24 →

C

Click on link below to read September 10th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online September 10th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading September 10th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Save the date! You’re invited!

William “Billy” Tauro
Candidate for
Registrar of Deeds
CAMPAIGN FUNDRAISER

ELVIS vs SINATRA
Two Great Entertainers
Dimitrios Stavropoulos as Elvis • Dom Catino as Sinatra

Come Out and Show Your Support for
Southern Middlesex County’s next Registrar of Deeds William “Billy” Tauro

Wednesday October 9th 6-9pm

Premiere on Broadway
517 Broadway Somerville, MA 02145 Continue reading William “Billy” Tauro Candidate for Registrar of Deeds CAMPAIGN FUNDRAISER →

By Bob Katzen

“Reducing the amount of waste we produce – by reusing, repairing, rescuing, and donating what we already have – has the biggest direct impact on our ability to meet our waste reduction goals. Funding these projects ensures we have the infrastructure to tackle waste reduction right here in Massachusetts.” Continue reading This Week’s Quotable Quotes On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a bill making changes to the state’s long term care and assisted living industry that supporters said will make sweeping reforms to these two industries and will take a powerful step toward delivering high quality and safe care for older residents across the state.
Continue reading LONG TERM CARE AND ASSISTED LIVING (H 5033) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a bill adding 225 new alcohol licenses for the City of Boston over the next three years.

Continue reading ADD 225 LIQUOR LICENSES (H 5039) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov. Healey legislation that would rename the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission to MassAbility, a change that supporters say will better define the agency’s role in supporting residents with disabilities to live independently. The legislation also removes offensive terminology in the Massachusetts General Laws referring to people with disabilities in sections of the law that pertain to MassAbility.
Continue reading RENAME THE MASSACHUSETTS REHABILITATION COMMISSION (S 2941) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would allow cities and towns to establish a program to reduce the property tax for volunteer, call or auxiliary firefighters and EMTs in exchange for their services. The reduction would be in addition to any other exemption or abatement to which the person is entitled but the measure limits the total reduction of property taxes for any individual to $2,500.
Continue reading PROPERTY TAX REDUCTION FOR VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS AND EMTS (H 2832) →

By Bob Katzen

The House have initial approval to a bill that allows local tax collectors in cities and towns to waive up to 50 percent of the total property tax liability, including interest, charges and fees, of any homeowner in any tax period.
Continue reading TAX COLLECTOR CAN WAIVE UP TO 50 PERCENT OF LOCAL PROPERTY TAXES (H 2971) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would allow cities and towns to impose a cap on local property taxes paid by low-income seniors over 65. The cap would apply to single filer seniors with incomes of less than $50,000 and married filers with incomes below $60,000. The senior’s assets would have to be less than $75,000, excluding their primary residence and they would also be allowed to own one motor vehicle.
Continue reading CAP LOCAL PROPERTY TAXES (H 2944) →

By Bob Katzen

The House has held 129 roll calls in 2024. Beacon Hill Roll Call tabulates the number of roll calls on which each representative was present and voting, and then calculates that number as a percentage of the total roll call votes held. That percentage is the number referred to as the roll call attendance record.
Continue reading REPRESENTATIVES’ 2024 ROLL CALL ATTENDANCE RECORDS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6 2024 →

Obituary
Mr. Edward A. Cooper, of Somerville, passed away suddenly at home on August 30, 2024, he was 58. Born in Boston, Eddie was one of eight children born to the late Josephine (Ryerson) and Robert Collinson. A proud member of Teamsters Local 25, he worked for the Watertown branch of UPS.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Edward A. Cooper →

Community invited to gather in honor of those lost and those who served

SOMERVILLE—To mark the 23d anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services invite the community to a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Wednesday, September 11, at 6 p.m. in Davis Square. Continue reading Somerville to Host 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony →

City will offer many diverse opportunities to get involved in “quick-build” safety upgrades planned
for portions of Elm Street, Somerville Avenue, Beacon Street and Mossland Street.
Continue reading Somerville Kicks Off Community Engagement for “Elm-Beacon Connector” Street Safety Project with Sept 25 Virtual Community Meeting →

Obituary

Healey, Carol A.- Of Woburn, passed away on Friday, August 30th following a brief illness. She was 70 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Carol A. Healey →

By William Tauro

Last week I broke the news about an alleged attempted crime of changing a deed/defrauding family beneficiaries with the assistance of the current Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone. Since the article of allegations came out and surfaced exposing the scheme, the property located at 44 Warren Street in East Cambridge MA. has been taken off the market. Continue reading ALLEGED ACCUSATIONS AGAINST MIDDLESEX COUNTY REGISTER OF DEEDS MARIA CURTATONE’S CONSPIRACY SCHEME TO DEFRAUD BENEFICIARIES OUT OF PROPERTY SHARES THICKENS →

Dear Editor,

Family members of the late Jennie C. Carvello are calling foul and alleging that Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone allegedly used the influence of her office for a deceitful scheme to defraud other beneficiaries, then waiting a long period of time after the death of the property owner to record the documents at the Registry of Deeds in Cambridge where Curtatone oversees as registrar.
Continue reading FAMILY OF DECEASED AUNT ACCUSING MIDDLESEX COUNTY REGISTER OF DEEDS MARIA CURTATONE OF ALLEGED WRONGDOING FOR FIXING A FRIEND’S DEED TO DEPRIVE OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS OF PROPERTY OWNERSHIP SHARES →

James is going to be performing in Beverly on September 13 at the Cabot Theater. James appeared on my TV show, the Pop Explosion, on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, right after I interviewed Billy Tauro on his potential election to be Registrar of Deeds. Continue reading James Montgomery 9-13-24 The Cabot Theater Edited with some content from Joe Viglione →

Dear Somerville School Parents and News Stations,

I am writing to express my concern about the recent rise in school violence that has left many parents, students, and educators anxious about safety in our local schools. As an active community member, I believe it is crucial to open a dialogue about effective strategies to protect our children and ensure a safe learning environment. Continue reading School Violence and the Importance of Police Officers for Protection: →

for Over 30 Years of Distinguished Service
Femino to Retire this Fall

SOMERVILLE – On behalf of the City of Somerville, Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is extending her deepest gratitude to interim Police Chief Charles Femino for his exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to the Somerville Police Department. Continue reading City of Somerville Honoring Serving Chief of Police Charles Femino →

Loretta Lynch Obituary

Loretta M. (Gaff) Lynch, 86, died on Sunday, September 1, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late Francis J. Lynch. She was raised and educated in Chelsea, MA and was a graduate of St. Rose High School in Chelsea. Loretta was employed for many years in the medical records department at Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital in Salem, NH until her retirement. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Loretta M. (Gaff) Lynch →