Assault
23007004: On 2/7/23 at approximately 10:37 PM, Somerville Police responded to a business on Pearl St for report of an assault. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated while inside the store, he observed four juvenile males shoplifting. He asked them to put the items back and the juveniles began to assault him multiple times. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Crime Activity Log
New nationwide coalition aims to accelerate lead service line replacement, tackling legacy public health inequities and furthering environmental justice nationwide Continue reading Somerville Joins Biden-Harris Partnership to Eliminate Lead Pipes from Water Infrastructure
DONNA’S OBITUARY:
Donna J. MacAdams, of Sandwich, MA and formerly of Arlington, passed away on February 13, 2023, she was 78. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Donna J. MacAdams
Seminar Hosted by Somerville Inclusionary Housing Program and Winter Hill Bank
SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville’s Inclusionary Housing Program and Winter Hill Bank are pleased to invite the Somerville community to join a First-Time Home Buyer Seminar on Wednesday, February 22, from 6-7:30 p.m.
Continue reading Somerville Community Members Invited to Join First-Time Home Buyer Seminar on February 22
By Arthur Moore
My life has been one of helping others worse off than myself. Sadly I live in a city that is not interested in that concept. Once again I will offer a suggestion that helps those people. Many homeless here live in their cars for obvious reasons. They have no money to rent a place. Many are just regular people who ran into problems. I know some personally who have lived out of their cars here. Continue reading Protected Parking for the Homeless
WILLIAM’S OBITUARY:
U.S. Veteran
FARRELL, William T. – Of Medford February 14, 2023. Beloved husband of the late Lois (Clark) Farrell. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William T. Farrell
OBITUARY:
CLARK, Joseph F. – Of Somerville February 13, 2023. Complete notice to follow. Late Somerville Firefighter and US Veteran, US Marine Corps.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph F. Clark
TROY’S OBITUARY:
Justin Savage aged 50 of Somerville, Massachusetts (Formerly of Tennessee), passed away at his residence on February 7, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Troy J. Savage
By William Tauro
Please check out this recent article that came out this past week on February 10, 2023 in the Tuft’s Daily and check out Somerville City Councilor Matt McLaughlin’s quoted response (“We live in the Golden Age of corruption in local government because there’s no media,” McLaughlin said, quoting Producer David Simon.)” Where have you been Matt? Continue reading Somerville City Councilor Coming Out of the Closet as Town-Crier a Little too Late Regarding Political Corruption
Thank you
Capasso, Coaches and the Somerville High
School Hockey Team,
On behalf of mvself and my family I would like
to extend our appreciation during one of the
most difficult times. The SHS team scored big
by paying their respects to Pasquale’s aunt
Kathy. Everyone present could not stop talking
about how respectful the young men were as
they paid their respects. Continue reading Thank You From Family of KATHLEEN M. SULLIVAN
MILDRED’S OBITUARY
Mrs. Mildred H. (Perkins) Walker, of Somerville, passed away at the age of 101 on February 12, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mildred H. Walker
Medford Police are searching for these three who work together to steal a woman’s wallet in Wegmans. Continue reading Medford Police are searching for these three who work together to steal a woman’s wallet in Wegmans
Click on link below to read February 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online February 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading February 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Residential Breaking & Entering
23005906: On 2/3/23 at approximately 9:58 AM, Somerville Police responded to an apartment complex on Canal St for report of a past breaking and entering. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated the lock on his storage locker was cut. Nothing was reported missing.
Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Update
Our sincere condolences to friends and family of Jim Lennon. He will be sadly missed here In Somerville by many.
OBITUARY
Lennon, James John of Billerica, Formerly of Somerville passed away unexpectedly in his home on January 9th. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James J. (Jimmy) Lennon
Shift expected to boost Somerville Media Center funding by $1 million over the next three years
SOMERVILLE, MA – The growing national trend of cable TV subscribers “cord cutting” to switch from cable TV to streaming or other viewing options is putting Somerville Public, Educational, and Government (PEG) Access Television services in peril, and Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is poised to take action to preserve these vital resources. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Proposes New Model for Funding PEG Access Television
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 4-34, rejected an amendment that would require a unanimous vote for the Senate to continue any session beyond midnight. Current Senate rules require a two-thirds vote to go beyond midnight.
Continue reading REQUIRE UNANIMOUS VOTE TO GO BEYOND MIDNIGHT (S 17)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 4-34, rejected an amendment that would require a two-thirds vote for the Senate to continue any session beyond 10 p.m. This would be in addition to a current Senate rule that requires a two-thirds vote to continue a session beyond 8 p.m. and a two-thirds vote to continue a session beyond midnight.
Continue reading REQUIRE A TWO-THIRDS VOTE TO GO BEYOND 10 P.M. (S 17)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 37-1, approved the set of rules by which the Senate will operate during the 2023-2024 session. Key rules include continuing the option, implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, which allows senators to participate, debate and vote remotely in Senate sessions, at their owns discretion, from their homes or offices; allowing legislators and citizens to testify at hearings in person or from their home or other remote location; and requiring Senate committee votes to be posted on the Legislature’s website. Continue reading ADOPT SENATE RULES (S 17)
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
After some fifty years without any pedestrian protection at the Clarendon Hill Towers/Stop and Shop/Broadway Crosswalk, just yards away from Route 16, the city finally was motivated to install traffic protection for its citizens.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: FINALLY! TRAFFIC OVERHANG PEDESTRIAN CAUTION SIGN INSTALLED AT CLARENDON HILL TOWERS/STOP & SHOP BUSY BROADWAY CROSSWALK!
By Bob Katzen
“My office will always advocate for consumers, especially when they are preyed on by a company that engages in unfair and unlawful business practices. We were able to hold Safe Home Security and its sister companies accountable for their alleged deceptive tactics, securing millions in debt relief for consumers, and we will continue to hold bad actors accountable.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require the state’s Pension Reserve Investment Management (PRIM) fund to divest state funds from companies that derive more than 15 percent of revenues from the sale or manufacturing of ammunition, firearms or firearm accessories used for civilian, non-military, non-police purposes. PRIM handles and pays retirement benefits to state employees and teachers.
Continue reading DIVEST FROM COMPANIES THAT SELL FIREARMS OR AMMUNITION (HD 3225)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would declare racism as a public health crisis and direct the Office of Health Equity to develop policies to dismantle systemic racism impacting health and establish programs focused on the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases disproportionately impacting communities of color. Continue reading DECLARE RACISM AS A PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS (HD 3703)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would designate the first Monday in March as COVID-19 Remembrance Day to honor and remember people who have died or suffered from COVID-19; the frontline and essential workers; and residents of the state who volunteered to support their neighbors and local communities.
Continue reading CREATE COVID-19 REMEMBRANCE DAY (HD 3281)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would permit cities and towns to allow non-citizens over age 18 to vote in local municipal elections. The elections in which non-citizens could vote include an election for mayor, school committee, city council, town council, board of selectmen, select board elections, a school committee referendum and a local ballot referendum. Continue reading ALLOW NON-CITIZENS TO VOTE (HD 3946)
By Bob Katzen
This bill adds mental health of students to the current list of physical illnesses that qualify as a legitimate reason for a student’s absence from school. Under the bill, students who are absent due to mental or behavioral health will also be offered the opportunity to meet with a certified school counselor upon returning to school but will not be required to do so. Rep. Carol Doherty (D-Taunton) sponsored the legislation that was originally initiated and backed by the Class of 2021 at Oliver Ames High School in Easton. Continue reading MENTAL HEALTH OF STUDENTS (HD 2208)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would allow low stakes card games and other recreational games at senior centers. The bill would limit the amount of money contributed by a single player during the entire session to $5 and the winnings of a single player to $20. Games included are pitch, cribbage, mahjong, rummy, pinochle, canasta, dominoes, bridge and bingo. Continue reading ALLOW LOW STAKES CARD GAMES AT SENIOR CENTERS (HD 171)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 4-34, rejected an amendment that would allow a senator to participate in any Senate session remotely from their office, home or any other location only under certain circumstances. The amendment would replace a section that allows a senator to participate remotely without a specific reason. Continue reading LIMITED REMOTE VOTING (S 17)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 32-6, approved an amendment that would repeal a current rule that limits the Senate president to eight years in that position.
Continue reading REPEAL TERM LIMITS FOR THE SENATE PRESIDENT (S 17)
Mayor Ballantyne stands in the White House at the Biden-Harris Lead Pipe Summit
Lead exposure in drinking water is a national public health concern and long-standing environmental justice issue – and Washington is taking strides to address it. Last week, Mayor Ballantyne attended a coalition summit hosted by Vice President Harris, where Somerville and 120+ government agencies and community organizations committed to accelerating lead service line replacement. Continue reading Somerville Joins Biden-Harris Partnership to Eliminate Lead Pipes from Water Infrastructure
GovHR Will Lead Nationwide Search to Identify Candidates Who Align With City’s Community-Driven Approach to Public Safety Continue reading Somerville Selects Firm to Lead Search for Police Department Chief
CAROL-ANN’S OBITUARY
Carol-Ann Hynes, Sr. (née Walsh), a lifelong resident of Medford, MA, passed away on February 8, 2023. She had many loves, including laughing whenever she could; drinking coffee with friends at Dunkin Donuts; talking crazy politics; Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Carol-Ann Hynes
DR. GEORGE’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
George Charles Galitis passed away on February 8, 2023, at 92, in his home state of Massachusetts.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dr. George C. Galitis
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Im not sure if you know but new dragon star is closing after over 40 years due to the landlord evicting them, they have been in the same place at 273 broadway across from Somerville Fire Department head quarters well since I was a kid. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Dragon Star Chinese Restaurant Closing After Over 40 Years Due to Possible Landlord Eviction
By William Tauro
Is this guy serious? Totally different circumstances one was wielding a machete , no? When do the lives of police officers start to mean anything to elected officials?
Running from police? Or running toward with a machete? Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Jake Wilson Somerville City Counselor at Large Posts Delusional Posting Online
CAROL-ANN’S OBITUARY:
HYNES, Carol-Ann (Walsh) – Of Medford February 8, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Carol-Ann Hynes
Richard A. Clark, beloved husband of Andrea (Papazoglou) Clark, passed away on Tuesday, February 7th, 2023, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 73. Born in Boston, he is the loving son of the late Charles and Dorothea (Vodden) Clark. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard A. Clark
The City of Somerville seeks 20 community members to participate in a 75-minute online focus group about the historic Armory building at 191 Highland Ave. This focus group is one part of the ongoing Armory Master Plan process, which will guide the Armory’s future as a vibrant arts center for years to come. Continue reading Participate in a Focus Group to Shape the Future of Somerville’s Armory Building
By William Tauro
With all the bad news in the media regarding mental illness tragic scenes in the past month including this past week’s tragedy in Andover, it’s absolutely time for our elected officials to step forward and make that difference! Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Mental Illness, Including Depression, is a Major Issue That Affects Millions of People Worldwide
BHHS Commonwealth Real Estate Winner of the 2018 Chairman’s Circle Diamond award,
representing the top 1/2 of the top 1% in the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices global network
Winner of 2019 President Circle Award Continue reading BHHS Commonwealth Real Estate
Saturday, February 11th “Senior Night”
Last home game of the season! Come cheer on our Seniors!! Continue reading Somerville Highlanders Hockey Senior Night
Huge thank you to all our clients, friends and family for your business and referrals!
Another successful year in real estate and we couldn’t have done it without your support.
We greatly appreciate it!
Continue reading Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Commonwealth Real Estate President’s Circle 2022 Award Winner
Click on link below to read February 7th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
February 7th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading February 7th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
(Somerville, MA) For the third consecutive year, Naveo Credit Union participated in the American Heart Association’s Go Red day on Friday, February 3. Naveo raised $250 to bring awareness to and support research for heart health.
Continue reading Naveo Credit Union Goes Red for the American Heart Association and Raises $250
GISELA’S OBITUARY
Wilson, Gisela (Dormann) — Of Somerville, formerly of Germany, passed away peacefully at home on January 27,2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Gisela Wilson
KATHLEEN’S OBITUARY
Sullivan, Kathleen M. (Grassia) of Somerville, February 4th, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kathleen M. Sullivan
Please get ready because I’m may soon be going to ask all Somerville residents to tell all their friends and relatives in Somerville to vote for me for mayor of Somerville during the next election this coming year. Continue reading We Have to Solve Serious Problems and Bring Back Common Sense and Security to the Residents of Somerville
By William Tauro
Here we are in 2023, two years later since the last Somerville election! Our rats have doubled in size and tripled in population. Our roads look like battlefields! Crimes have risen, doubled, tripled and now quadrupled. Our homeless are still out on the streets. Our mayor and all of our city councilors have all received pay raises, but we have traffic islands!
Continue reading Two Years of Nothing Being Accomplished in Somerville
“With nuclear power, we have the technology to provide an abundant source of power to our homes in a cheap, clean and efficient manner. Our politicians have failed us by enacting policies that lead to nuclear power plant closures without any plans for replacement.”
—Paul Craney, spokesman for the Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance.
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTE on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would guarantee free public higher education as a right for all students who have attended a high school in Massachusetts for three or more years and graduated from a Bay State high school. Continue reading FREE COLLEGE EDUCATION (SD 1946)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would create an 11-member permanent Commission on the Status of People who Practice Islam to serve as a resource on issues affecting American Muslim communities in the Bay State.
Continue reading MUSLIM COMMISSION (S 2376)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would prevent a landlord from restricting a tenant’s right to install or use a portable air conditioner so long as the unit is properly installed and does not violate building codes or state or federal law; violate the device manufacturer’s written safety guideline; damage the premises; and does not require amperage to power the device that cannot be accommodated by the power service to the building. Continue reading AIR CONDITIONER USE (SD 2214)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require the Cannabis Control Commission and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to study and report to the Legislature on the barriers that first responders face about their legal right to use cannabis.
Continue reading MARIJUANA AND FIRST RESPONDERS (SD 2230)
The City of Somerville Urban Forestry Committee (UFC) is now accepting applications for one new member with expertise in urban forestry. Urban forestry expertise may include experience or coursework in forestry, arboriculture, horticulture, or any other relevant field.
Continue reading Somerville Urban Forestry Committee Seeks One New Member
Six RSJ Community Engagement Ambassadors Will Spearhead Community-Driven Outreach for the Public Safety for All Initiative Continue reading Somerville Launches Racial and Social Justice Community Engagement Ambassadors Program
Update
The deadline for area nonprofits to apply for project funding has been extended from today, February 3, to Friday, February 17, 2023.
Continue reading Application Deadline Extended: Somerville Opens New Funding for Local Nonprofits
By William Tauro
I’ve been living at Assembly Row for close to over three years now and knock on wood, I haven’t ever seen a rat nor a mouse since I’ve been here. The reason why Assembly Row is so successful being rodent free is because the owners of the property spends the money and gets the job done.
Continue reading Somerville Can Do Much Better Combatting the Rodent Crisis in Our City, Instead They Dropped the Ball and Turned a Blind Eye
PAULO’S OBITUARY
Teixeira, Paulo– Of Somerville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on January 26, 2022. He was 77 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Paulo Teixeira
GEORGE’S OBITUARY
Crotty, George P., Jr.- Of Medford, formerly of Somerville, passed away on Saturday, February 4, 2023. He was 71 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering George P. Crotty, Jr.
Della Peruta, Maria (Byron) — of Somerville, passed away after a long illness, on February 4, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Maria Della Peruta
We are excited to announce the return of our annual Spring Into Action event at the Somerville Theatre’s Crystal Ballroom on Thursday, March 23rd. Continue reading Somerville Homeless Coalition
At approximately 4:20am, on Sunday, February 5, 2023, the Medford Emergency Communications Center received a call from a party located in Medford Square for the report of a fire in the area of Mystic Avenue. Continue reading 58 Swan Street Medford Fire
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Billy, F.Y.I. you probably read this an attended the meeting, but the crossing from Clarendon Hill Twrs on Broadway over to Stop & Shop is treacherous. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Change at Somerville intersection could be riskier for Stop & Shop crosswalk users, residents warn CambridgeDay.com Describes
Photo from Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn‘s Facebook page
This past week Medford promoted three Medford Firefighters to leadership roles at the Fire Department. Continue reading Medford Promotes Three Firefighters to Leadership Roles
Please check out our calendar page for more info at medfordma.org/events
Continue reading Medford Celebrating Black History Month with a series of events throughout the community this month!
LoConte Rink February 21 from 11am-noon
Continue reading Medford LoConte Rink February 21 from 11am-noon
🏡👀✨OPEN HOUSES ADDED THIS WEEKEND! 🏡👀✨ Limited units remain in this new construction, mid-rise condo community. This is your chance to get in on an incredible property before ALL units are reserved. Commuter-friendly, easy MBTA access, quick to downtown Melrose, & close to Ell pond, parks, & walking trails – coupled with high quality construction, luxury finishes, & perks like parking, storage, & outdoor space… it’s all you want & MORE!
👉📲See the full listing here: https://www.verani.com/property/3-73075026-52-West-Emerson-4-Melrose-MA-02176/
Continue reading OPEN HOUSES ADDED THIS WEEKEND! www.verani.com
Maureen T. (Upton) Doherty, a longtime resident of both Hampton, New Hampshire and Deerfield, Florida and formerly of Charlestown, entered into eternal life on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at Pilgrim Rehabilitation Nursing Center in Peabody. She was 76 years of age. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering MAUREEN T. (UPTON) DOHERTY
A warning to residents who should have recieved a letter from the City of Somerville regarding the “Choice Electricity Program’. The City has automatically enrolled everyone into this program so it is really not a CHOICE since you have to opt out. Anyone who may have ignored the letter are in for a surprise. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Somerville Community Choice Electricity Program
SOMERVILLE – The National Weather Service is warning of dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills in Massachusetts Friday through early Sunday, February 3-5. The coldest period is forecast for Friday evening into Saturday when wind chills could reach up to 30 degrees below zero. Continue reading Dangerously Cold Weather Expected Friday to Early Sunday, February 3-5: Take Steps to Stay Safe
GEORGETTE’S OBITUARY
Georgette Sajous Alexandre, of Medford and formerly of Arlington, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her large and devoted family, she was 91. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Georgette Sajous Alexandre
LEONARD’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
Leonard S. Mortell, of the Chelsea Soldiers Home and formerly of Malden, passed away on January 28, 2024, he was 84. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Leonard S. Mortell
SUZANNE’S OBITUARY
Suzanne (Hennessy) Lipsky, of Somerville, passed away peacefully at home on January 29, 2023 following a courageous and valiant fight against Pancreatic Cancer, she was 74. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Suzanne Lipsky
Prospect Hill Academy (PHA) has earned the 2022 College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award, for both Computer Science A (CSA) and Computer Science Principles (CSP).
Continue reading Prospect Hill Academy One of Only Four Schools in the State to Receive AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award
Buccelli Real Estate Inc.
Assault
23004224: On 1/24/23 at approximately 11:47 PM, Somerville Police responded to Grand Union Blvd for a panic alarm coming from a Lyft driver. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated he picked up a female party at Grand Union Blvd and when she entered his car, she began kicking the back of his seat and grabbing at him. The suspect left prior to police arrival. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Updates
Valentine’s Day Luncheon – Thursday, February 16th starting at 11:00 a.m. at the George Dilboy Post located at 351 Summer Street – $10 per person – Join us for an afternoon of music and a special meal. Please RSVP to Connie Lorenti at 617-625-6600, ext. 2319. Continue reading Somerville Council on Aging February Press Outreach 2-1-23
We wish to express to Mr. Nichols’ family and loved ones our absolute sympathy, our profound grief, and our support of the call for transparent justice. Continue reading Somerville-Joint Statement & Resources in Response to the Death of Tyre Nichols
Click on link below to read The Somerville/Medford News Weekly | Somerville’s & Medford’s #1 Local News Source
January 31st, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1) (1)
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Online
By William Tauro
The Medford Lions Club met this past Monday night at the Mount Vernon Restaurant in Somerville voicing their opinions on how to make life better for our residents who are in need of assistance of our neighboring city’s as well as concerns, and definitely possible remedies to make living in both cities, Medford and Somerville, more safe, healthier and enjoyable for our residents and to assist the needy and blind with all the tools necessary to make a difference!
Continue reading Medford Lions Club Making a Difference
Deadline to Apply is February 24
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City’s Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) today invite Somerville residents and workers to apply to fill three open community seats on the Public Safety for All Task Force. Task force members will review feedback from thousands of community members, as well as expert testimonials and independent data to craft public safety policy recommendations for the City of Somerville. Applications are available starting Monday, January 30, at 8 a.m. and must be received by Friday, February 24, at 7 p.m.
Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne and RSJ Department Seeks Community Members for Public Safety for All Task Force
ALICE WOLF OBITUARY
WOLF, Alice K. (Koerner) Former Democratic member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives (1997-2013), member of the Cambridge City Council (1984-1994), Mayor of Cambridge (1990-1992), member of the Cambridge School Committee (1974-1982) died on Thursday, January 26, 2022 after a short battle with leukemia. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering ALICE K. WOLF
Gourmet Chocolate Covered Strawberry Boxes
(Each box is designed to fit your special occasion.) Continue reading Order Your Box of Dori‘s Sweets Valentines Chocolate Covered Gift Boxes Today!
By Bob Katzen
“One of the most effective ways to reduce tobacco use, not only among low-income individuals but also for youth, is to significantly increase the tax on all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. Multiple studies have shown that every 10 percent increase in the price of cigarettes reduces consumption by about 4 percent among adults and about 7 percent among youth.”
—The American Lung Association recommending that Massachusetts lawmakers increase the state’s current $3.51 per pack tax on cigarettes by at least $1. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would increase, over a 4-year period (2024-2027), the minimum wage from $15 per hour to $20 per hour; and the tipped worker minimum from $6.75 to $12, increasing it from 45 percent of minimum wage to 60 percent of it. Another provision beginning in 2028, would index the minimum wage for inflation, using the consumer price index. Continue reading RAISE THE MINIMUM WAGE FROM $15 PER HOUR TO $20 PER HOUSE (HD 3965)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would amend the part of the state constitution that creates the title “His Excellency” for the governor and lieutenant governor. The proposal would add two more possible titles – “Her Excellency” and “Their Excellency.” Continue reading HIS, HER AND THEIR EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR (HD 3598 and HD 3729)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would designate and treat high school cheerleading as a legitimate sport and have it governed by the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) which currently governs 19 other high school sports.
Continue reading RECOGNIZE HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING AS A SPORT (HD 4074)
By Bob Katzen
6,403 BILLS FILED FOR CONSIDERATION IN 2023-2024 SESSION – Legislators filed 6,403 pieces of legislation by the January 20 deadline. The 159 House members filed 4,050 while the 40 senators filed 2,353. Here are some of the 6,403:
HEARING AIDS (HD 3777) – Would require all health care plans to provide hearing aid coverage of up to $500 per hearing aid and then 80 percent coverage of the next $1,500 for each hearing aid.
Continue reading ALSO UP ON BEACON HILL
By Bob Katzen
The House 38-121 and 41-117, rejected two similar amendments that would require that committees make public how each legislator on the committee voted on whether or not to favorably report a bill to the House. This would replace a section that would only post the names of legislators who voted against the bill and list the aggregate vote tally without names, of members voting in the affirmative or not voting. Continue reading POST HOW REPRESENTATIVES VOTED ON BILLS IN COMMITTEE (H 3930)
By Bob Katzen
The House 35-125, rejected an amendment that would reinstate a 2009 rule that prohibited any representative from serving as speaker of the House for more than eight consecutive years. The rule was repealed in 2015. Continue reading TERM LIMITS FOR SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE (H 3930)
Saturday, 1/28: Consolidated Rental Waitlist Information Session
Wednesday, 2/1: Powder House Blvd. & Alewife Brook Pkwy. Redesign Meeting Continue reading MORE EVENTS & MEETINGS IN SOMERVILLE
Prepare for Future Snowfall this Winter
This week’s snowfall brought out the shovels. Some reminders for shoveling as we continue through the Winter season: Continue reading What’s Your Snow Shoveling Plan?
Photo of Gilman Square looking from grassy area to Medford Street
2022 brought exciting milestones in the Gilman Square area, and we invite you to get involved as the work continues in 2023. Continue reading Learn What’s Next for Gilman Square at the Community Update on Wednesday, February 1
Comcast License Renewal Public Hearing
Monday, February 13, 2023, 6 p.m.
All interested persons are invited to a public hearing on the draft proposal for the license renewal of Comcast Cable. The proposal sets guidelines for operations, service provision, licensing fees, and in-kind and capital contributions to the City via a federally regulated process for municipal issuance of local cable franchise licenses. Continue reading SOMERVILLE Comcast License Renewal Public Hearing Mon, February 13, 2023, 6 p.m.
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
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
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