Obituary
Sunrise: November 11, 1931 – Sunset: May 31, 2024

Mathilde LaFleur “Grun, Ti Mat, Grun Tutoon, Coco”- With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mathilde LaFleur, affectionately known as “Grun, Ti Mat, Grun Tutoon, Coco,” who departed this life peacefully on May 31, 2024, at the age of 92 in Malden, Massachusetts. Born on November 11, 1931, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Mathilde lived a life rich in love, faith, and community service. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mathilde LeFleur →

Final Pollinator Action Plan will be presented on Monday, July 8 at City Hall

Community also invited to learn how to plant a pollinator-friendly garden on June 27 in front of Somerville City Hall Continue reading Somerville Inviting Community to Share Feedback on Draft Pollinator Action Plan →

April 26, 1980-May 31, 2024

Stanley M. Koty III, affectionately known as “Chip”, of Queen Creek, Arizona,
formerly of Somerville, MA passed away suddenly at home on May 31, 2024.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Stanley M. Koty →

Have you seen this invasive weed in your area? Black swallow-wort (BSW) is an aggressive weed that’s harmful to native plants, butterflies, birds, and more. BSW has shiny green leaves that come in pairs, thin green pods, and small dark purple flowers that grow in clusters.
Continue reading Help Stop Black Swallow-Wort This Summer →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville’s Public Space and Urban Forestry division (PSUF) invite community members to attend a virtual presentation of the draft Somerville Pollinator Action Plan (SPAP) on Monday, June 10, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. via Zoom. Continue reading Share Feedback on Somerville’s Draft Pollinator Action Plan →

The Somerville High School (SHS) Athletics Department invites community members to attend a dedication ceremony for Kevin Raymond on Thursday, June 13, at Somerville High School (81 Highland Ave.) at 3 p.m. Continue reading Somerville Community Invited to Attend Dedication Ceremony for Kevin Raymond →

Sometimes called Black Independence Day, Freedom Day, or Liberation Day, Juneteenth, June 19, has been continually celebrated since 1865, when news reached Galveston, Texas, that all enslaved persons had been declared free.
Continue reading Commemorating Juneteenth in Somerville Juneteenth flag raising at Somerville City Hall concourse in 2023 →

Obituary

Mr. Louis J. Carabello, of Somerville, passed away on June 5, 2024, at the age of 103. Born and raised in East Boston, Louis was the loving son of Agrippino and Luigia Carabello and predeceased by his four sisters and two brothers, Nancy, Serena, Connie, Josie, Joe and Angelo.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Louis Joseph Carabello →

Obituary
Cochran, Maureen N. (Sullivan)- Of Somerville, passed away at home on Sunday, June 9, 2024. She was 78 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Maureen N. Cochran →

Way to go Medford!! Last week, after a busy work week, gardening, helping buddies, and welcoming an overdue spring, I alighted and drove two friends to the popular Avellino”s for breakfast. Trying to keep catch-up and happy talk (not easy with current news) we managed time and
ate well to leave on a smile
Note. Continue reading Oops! They did it again in Medford →

By William Tauro

After negotiating the sale of the post 19, the members of Post 19 were promised the space by the developer, but unfortunately the developer left them high and dry without a finished space when the building was completed. Continue reading Let’s Help Save Post 19 Somerville! Get Involved! →

By William Tauro
.
What’s in a name? Assembly Square in Somerville was named for the 52-acre Ford assembly plant that used to operate in the area. The factory closed in 1958, but the name still sticks, as the vicinity transformed into the new now “Assembly Row” shopping complex, apartments, and MBTA station! Continue reading Where Is Our Old Assembly Square Ford Plant Water Tower? →

By William Tauro

Firefighter’s Memorial Sunday ceremonies took place on Sunday, June 9th. Ceremonies began with a wreath laying ceremony at 8:30am at the Arrow Paper Fire Memorial located at 101 South Street. Attendees were requested to then proceed to the Lowell Street Fire Station located at
651 Somerville Ave at 9:15am to honor all of our members who died in the line of duty, as well as our retirees who passed away during the past year. Continue reading Somerville Firefighters 2024 Memorial Sunday →

Pictured L-R: Kiwanis President Dean Austin; First row-Sophia Robbins, Yasmin Nazhar, Emely Portillo-Pena; Second row- Christopher Hopkin, Kyle Ray-Dutra and Kiwanis Scholarship Chairman, Past President Anthony Ciccariello.

SOMERVILLE_The Kiwanis Club of Somerville awarded twelve $1,000 scholarships to deserving Somerville High School students this week. The students were selected from among seventy-five applicants for the annual awards. Six of those students were able to join us today for the club’s annual scholarship luncheon at the Mount Vernon Restaurant. Continue reading Kiwanis Club of Somerville Award Twelve Scholarships →

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

I’m a very concerned citizen and affiliate who has daily interactions at the Registry of Deeds for your opponent Maria Curtatone…..if you want some information to help your campaign I’m sure I can provide some useful news and this is what I have been told……I am also a concerned property owner in Middlesex South District…..who is very concerned for my friend because I believe my friend is a target and is afraid for their job. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Corrupt, Illegal and Unethical Practices at the South Middlesex Registry of Deeds →

SMEA Somerville Municipal Employees Association
“IN UNITY THERE IS STRENGTH”
Today at Intersection of Willow Ave & the Community Path in Somerville
Continue reading SMEA Somerville Municipal Employees Association “IN UNITY THERE IS STRENGTH” →

Click on link below to read June 4th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 4th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online Continue reading June 4th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

And, new feature bout Town, …terrific Concert again given by the Medford Community and Young Adult/Youths directed by the Distinguished, great Betsy Pesce of Medford. Continue reading More of “News ’bout Town “ →

By Bob Katzen

“As Massachusetts seeks to address soaring housing prices and rising rents that harm our residents, families and businesses, my office has unique tools to help address the crisis, and we intend to do our part. By establishing the Housing Affordability Unit and appointing Esme Caramello, who has deep expertise in housing, my office is committed to using all of our tools to ensure more safe and affordable housing opportunities for all.” Continue reading The Week’s Quotable Quotes On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would amend the state’s current veterans’ preference law which places veterans who pass the exam at the top of the eligibility list for civil service positions. The current order is: disabled veterans, veterans and spouses or single parents of veterans who were killed in action or who died from a service-connected disability incurred during wartime service, provided that the spouse or parent has not remarried. Continue reading VETERANS’ PREFERENCE (H 3515) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would prohibit anyone, except on-duty law enforcement officers, from carrying a firearm in any state or local government-owned building, polling place or demonstration. The measure imposes up to a $1,000 fine and/or up to a 2-year prison sentence on violators and allows law enforcement officers to arrest, without a warrant, anyone who violates this law.
Continue reading RESTRICT CARRYING GUNS (H 2305) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey filed legislation that would change the name of the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to the Executive Office of Aging and Independence. The proposal also replaces outdated language in the state’s lawbooks, including changing “elderly persons,” to “older adults” and “handicapped” to “adults with a disability.” The new legislation also incorporates gender-neutral language into current law.
Continue reading RENAME THE OFFICE OF ELDER AFFAIRS →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment providing $914,000 to combat veterans’ homelessness by maintaining and operating three veterans’ homes and providing counseling and benefits to disabled veterans and their families.
Continue reading $914,000 FOR VETERANS’ HOMES (S 4) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved an amendment that would require health insurance companies to cover fertility preservation treatments for individuals who have a medical diagnosis or who are going through treatments that may impact their fertility.
Continue reading FERTILITY PRESERVATION TREATMENTS (S 4) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved an amendment that would require the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to make resources, curriculum and professional development available to schools on antisemitism and the harm that it causes. The amendment also establishes and regulates a special commission on combating antisemitism in the Bay State.
Continue reading COMBAT ANTISEMITISM (S 4) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment increasing funding by $655,553 (from $644,447 to $1,300,000) for the distribution of Narcan to cities and towns and community organizations. Narcan is the brand name for a life-saving overdose-reversal drug. Continue reading $655,553 MORE FOR NARCAN (S 4) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 30-9, approved an amendment providing $100,000 to establish a new advisory commission, under the governor’s charge, to propose a new state flag, seal and motto within one year. The commission would be authorized to request proposals from professional designers and solicit a public competition for people to submit designs. Continue reading STATE FLAG, SEAL AND MOTTO (S 4) →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Somerville’s SomerViva Office of Immigrant Affairs, and the Somerville Worker Center, in partnership with the Brazilian Worker Center and the Brazilian Women’s Group, are announcing a free immigrant workers’ rights fair on Saturday, June 8, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Somerville Worker Center located at 530 Mystic Ave, Suite 111. Continue reading Somerville Community Invited to Immigrant Workers’ Rights Fair on Saturday, June 8 →

Obituary

Edna M. (Dillon) Murphy – – 91, past away peacefully on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at her daughter’s home in Concord, MA. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Edna M. Murphy →

Obituary

Burns, Richard F. “Dickie”- Passed away after a lengthy illness at the age of 72 on May 25th.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard F. ” Dickie” Burns →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD), in partnership with 717-719 Washington St, LLC, are pleased to announce an income-restricted rental opportunity of two (2) 2-bedroom apartments.

Continue reading Applications Now Open for Two Income-Restricted Somerville Rental Apartments at 205 Beacon Street →

Obituary

Robert J. Haley passed away on May 25, 2024 in the comfort of the home he grew up in. He was 70. Born and raised in Somerville he was the son of the late Ruth L. (Mahoney) and Robert J. Haley. Robert graduated from Somerville High School and served for several years in the United States Coast Guard, Sector Boston. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert J. Haley →

Obituary

Albano, Robert J. – Of Medford, passed away on Tuesday, May 28th surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness. He was 75 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert J. Albano →

Change will precede construction of streetscape improvements including new sidewalks, cycle tracks in each direction, and new tree plantings.

SOMERVILLE – Beginning on Monday, June 17 or soon after, the segment of Central Street between Summer Street and Highland Avenue will become a permanently one-way northbound (travel from Summer St. north toward Highland Ave.) street for vehicle traffic.
Continue reading Central Street between Summer Street and Highland Avenue to Become One-Way (Northbound) for Vehicle Traffic on Monday, June 17 or Soon After →

BOSTON—Today, State Auditor Diana DiZoglio’s Office released an audit of the Executive Office for Administration and Finance (A&F), which reviewed the period from July 1, 2020, through April 30, 2022. Continue reading Executive Office for Administration and Finance Audit Identifies Gaps in Review Processes →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Office of Health and Human Services invite all community members to honor LGBTQ+ Pride Month by joining the annual Pride flag raising ceremony on Tuesday, June 4. Continue reading Join the City of Somerville’s Pride Flag Raising at City Hall Concourse on Tuesday, June 4 →

Obituary

Mrs. Julia (Naughton) Tierney, of Somerville, passed away in her sleep on May 29th, 2024, she was 82. Born and raised in Spiddal, County Galway, Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Julia Tierney →

Have a passion for local history? Become a docent tour volunteer at some of Somerville’s most historic sites this spring.
Continue reading Become a Docent Volunteer with the Somerville Museum →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 6 Councilor Lance Davis, and Ward 5 Councilor Naima Sait, and the City of Somerville’s Engineering Division are inviting the community to an open house on flood relief and water quality improvement efforts planned for Morrison Avenue (Cedar Street to Grove Street) and the surrounding neighborhood.
Continue reading Attend the Morrison Ave. Flood Relief & Water Quality Open House on June 10 →

The City’s Inclusionary Housing Program has one 2-bedroom condominium at 72 Berkeley St. #3 available for income-eligible, first time homebuyers making at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Continue reading Apply Now: Affordable Homeownership & Rental Opportunities at 72 Berkeley St. and 205 Beacon St. →

Happy almost LGBTQ+ Pride Month, Somerville! Join Mayor Ballantyne and the Somerville Health and Human Services Department to raise the Pride flag on Tuesday, June 4, on the City Hall concourse (93 Highland Ave.) at 5:30 p.m.
Continue reading Celebrate Pride Month in Somerville →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne has submitted Somerville’s fiscal year 2025 budget proposal. The proposed budget for FY25 includes major investments in schools and workforce equity, as well as building on resources for core city services. Continue reading Make Your Voice Heard: Join the Public Hearing on the Proposed FY25 Budget, Tuesday, June 4 →

Charge4Charge aims to help City invest in future electric vehicle charging infrastructure

SOMERVILLE– The City of Somerville is announcing that starting Monday, July 1, 2024 a fee of $0.25 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) will be implemented at all City-owned electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, aligning with neighboring communities including Boston, Cambridge, Medford, and Arlington. Continue reading Fueling the Future: Somerville to Implement Charging Fees for Electric Vehicles →

Obituary

Mark R. Sullivan, of Wilmington, passed away at home on May 31, 2024. He was 67. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mark R. Sullivan →

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

“I want to send a huge thank you to Deputy chief of SOMERVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT .
CHRISTOPHER WARD, for his 30 plus years of impeccable service to the residents of Somerville .. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:SPD Deputy Chief CHRISTOPHER WARD Retires →

Concluding an eleven-week program in which middle schools partnered with legal mentors from area law offices, law schools, and state offices, Boston, Brookline, Medford & Waltham students gathered for an in-person Mock Appeal at the John Joseph Moakley U.S Courthouse (One Courthouse Way, Boston, MA) to present their cases about the First Amendment. Continue reading Boston, Brookline, Medford & Waltham Middle School Students Participate in Discovering Justice Mock Appeal →

Click on link below to read May 28th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online May 28th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (3)
Continue reading May 28th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Continue reading Somerville DAV Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony 2024 Photos →

Continue reading Somerville Memorial Day Cemetery Wreath Laying Ceremony 2024 Photos →

Continue reading Somerville Memorial Day Parade 2024 Photos →

By Bob Katzen
Gov. Healey announced that the state is investing $13 million in the Bridge for Resilient Youth in Transition (BRYT) program, an in-school program supporting students who have fallen behind academically due to challenges with their mental health. This is the first time the state has provided funding to establish BRYT in schools. Up until now, the program had only been available to districts with the economic resources to get it off the ground.
Continue reading $13 MILLION FOR STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would allow cities and towns to require the installation of an automatic sprinkler system in every newly-constructed 1- or 2-family home.
Continue reading REQUIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS (H 2289) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that would require a manufacturer or person that sells Firefighting Personal Protective Equipment to any person or government agency, to provide, beginning January 1, 2025, written notice to the buyer, at the time of sale, if the equipment contains toxic PSAs, as well as the reason such chemicals were added to the equipment. Continue reading PROTECT FIREFIGHTERS (H 2339) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would prohibit cities and towns that foreclose on properties on which the owner owes back property taxes, from keeping all of the profits when the city or town sells the property at auction. Current Massachusetts law allows this practice. The bill would allow the city or town to keep only the amount owed in back taxes and send the remainder to the owner.
Continue reading BAN HOME EQUITY THEFT (S 4) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would increase funding for civics education in schools across the state by $1 million (from $1.5 to $2.5 million).
Continue reading $1 MILLION MORE FOR CIVICS EDUCATION (S 4) →

Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would increase funding for YWCAs by $350,000 (from $650,000 to $1 million).
Continue reading $350,000 MORE FOR YWCAs (S 4) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 36-3, approved a motion to suspend Senate rules to allow the Senate budget debate session on May 22 to continue beyond 8 p.m. Under Senate rules, the Senate cannot meet after 8 p.m. unless the rule is suspended. The session lasted two hours and 15 minutes beyond 8 p.m. and adjourned at 10:15 p.m.
Continue reading CONTINUE SESSION BEYOND 8 P.M. →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 4-35, rejected an amendment that would retain a current law that requires any excess revenue in capital gains revenue over $1 billion to annually automatically be transferred as follows: 90 percent to the Rainy Day Fund; 5 percent to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund; and 5 percent to the State Pension Liability Fund. The $1 billion would remain in the General Fund and be spent by the Legislature with no restrictions.
Continue reading CAPITAL GAINS TAX (S 4) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 10-29, rejected an amendment that would abolish the current requirement that Massachusetts married couples who file income tax returns jointly at the federal level do the same at the state level.
Continue reading ABOLISH REQUIREMENT THAT COUPLES MUST FILE TAXES JOINTLY (S 4) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment that would establish a 2-week sales tax holiday, from August 6, 2024 to August 19, 2024, allowing consumers to buy most products that cost under $2,500 without paying the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax. State law currently calls for a 2-day sales tax holiday every year.
Continue reading SALES TAX HOLIDAY (S 4) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved a $55.9 billion fiscal 2025 state budget after adding an estimated $89.6 million in spending during three days of debate. The House has already approved a different version and a House-Senate conference committee will eventually craft a plan that will be presented to the House and Senate for consideration and sent to the governor.
Continue reading SENATE APPROVES $57.999 BILLION FISCAL 2025 BUDGET (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 156-0, approved and sent to the Senate a package designed to benefit veterans in the Bay State by broadening the definition of a veteran, increasing tax credits and state benefits for which they are eligible and modernizing the services on which they rely.
Continue reading VETERANS BENEFITS (H 4661) →

By Bob Katzen

Of the 1,100 amendments filed by senators, only 41 came to a roll call vote. Many others were simply approved or rejected one at a time on voice votes, some with debate and some without debate.
Continue reading “BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE SENATE BUDGET DEBATE” →

(Somerville, MA) Naveo Credit Union collected nearly 100 books during the month of April as part of their Children’s Book Drive. Each year, Naveo Credit Union participates in the statewide book drive spearheaded by the Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA) to benefit the Continue reading Naveo Credit Union collects nearly 100 books to benefit The Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless and their A Bed for Every Child program. →

SomerStreets: Carnaval returns for the 14th year to East Somerville on Sunday, June 2, from 2 to 6 p.m.

SOMERVILLE – Somerville is invited to get their dancing shoes on as the 2024 SomerStreets: Carnaval returns Sunday, June 2, from 2 to 6 p.m. (rain date Sunday, June 9)
to kick off the 2024 SomerStreets season, which will include a series of four neighborhood street festivals across Somerville.

Continue reading 2024 SomerStreets Festival Season to Kick off with Carnaval Celebration on Sunday, June 2 →

Obituary

Rose Marie Scanlan – Of Somerville, passed away on May 17, 2024, she was 95.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rose Marie Scanlan →

Obituary

Amirault, Norman J. – Of Winthrop, formerly of Medford passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. He was 94 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Norman J. Amirault →

The Caron Theater was full for graduates, officials, teachers, parents, Awardees, and Donors for the excitement, thanks and memory this Scholarship night brings!! Continue reading Medford Lions and Donors “ROARED” MAY 22 →

Obituary

Kevin T. Cloherty, of Cambridge, passed away on May 21, 2024 in Lexington, he was 68. Born in Somerville, but raised in Cambridge, Kevin was one of ten children born to the late Mary “Mae” (Kelly) and John J. Cloherty.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kevin T. Cloherty →

Obituary

Jeudy, Camille- Of Everett, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 after a brief illness. He was 66 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Camille Jeudy →

Community Open House Will Showcase Proposed Concept Designs
and Collect Neighborhood Feedback

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 6 Councilor Lance Davis, Ward 5 Councilor Naima Sait, and the City of Somerville’s Engineering Division are inviting the community to an open house on flood relief and water quality improvement efforts planned for Morrison Avenue (Cedar Street to Grove Street) and the surrounding neighborhood. Continue reading Somerville Community Invited to Morrison Avenue Flood Relief & Water Quality Improvements Open House on Monday, June 10 →

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville community is invited to celebrate the city’s Nepali community at a free festival showcasing Nepal’s vibrant and dynamic culture on Saturday, June 1, starting at 4 p.m. (rain date Saturday, June 8) at Union Square Plaza. Continue reading Celebrate Somerville’s Nepali Cultural Community on Saturday, June 1 →

Reverend Dr. Florence (Nottage) King, D.Min., native of Nassau, Bahamas and resident of Medford, Massachusetts was born on September 25, 1941. She was the daughter of the late John and Ophelia (Allen) Nottage. Rev. King’s family immigrated to the U.S. where she became a naturalized citizen who attended school in Cambridge, MA. She peacefully passed away on May 10, 2024, in her home surrounded by her daughters. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Reverend Dr. Florence (Nottage) King →

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

Billy, reducing Walnut Street to Pearl Street to a single lane. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Pearl Street Reducing to One Way →

Click on link below to read May 21st, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online May 21st, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading May 21st, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“It is an honor to be named the most sustainable state in the nation. State and local partnerships like the Green Communities program have propelled clean energy innovation across Massachusetts. We are grateful for the hard work being done by our cities and towns to address climate change and protect public health. Local action is vital to reducing Massachusetts’ carbon emissions.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would require retail companies that sell home heating oil to annually inform all their customers of the opportunity to purchase insurance for heating oil spills.
Continue reading MUST INFORM CUSTOMERS ABOUT INSURANCE AVAILABILITY FOR HEATING OIL SPILLS (H 3686) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would allow the Bay State’s 41 municipal light plants to provide services to other Massachusetts municipal and state plants, and plants in other states. Current law prohibits this practice.
Continue reading MUNICIPAL LIGHT PLANTS (H 3142) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that would raise from $35 to $200 the fine for violating the traffic rule that provides when two vehicles approach or enter an intersection at approximately the same instant, the operator of the vehicle on the left must yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right. Continue reading RAISE FINE FOR “RIGHT OF WAY” VIOLATIONS (H 3477) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 152-1, approved and sent to the Senate a 102-page bill that supporters said aims to “restore stability to the health care system, bolster accountability within the industry, and control health care spending to ensure that everyone in Massachusetts has access to quality, affordable health care.” Continue reading HEALTH CARE CHANGES (H 4643) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 152-2, approved an IT bill consolidated amendment that would add $7.5 million, mostly to fund local projects, to the price tag of the measure.
Continue reading $7.5 MILLION IN ADDITIONAL FUNDING (H 4642) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 152-2, approved and sent to the Senate a bill to invest in information technology (IT) upgrades, improvements and new projects across state government. The measure authorizes $1.23 billion in bonded spending and $400 million in anticipated federal funds.

Continue reading FUNDING FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (H 4642) →

Obituary

DELL’ANNO, Evelyn (Silva) – Of Somerville May 13, 2024 at 100 years young. Beloved wife of the late Anthony Dell’Anno Sr.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Evelyn Dell’Anno →

Obituary

Jerome Sanfilippo, Jr., longtime resident of Somerville, MA, sadly passed away on May 11, 2024 at the age of 69. Born in Boston, MA, Junior, as he was known by all, had a way of connecting with people. He could light up a room with his infectious smile and big personality. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Jerome Sanfilippo →

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville Water & Sewer Department is inviting all members of the community to a public hearing that will share proposed Water and Sewer rates for Fiscal Year 2025. Continue reading Somerville Community Encouraged to Join Public Hearing on Proposed 2025 Water & Sewer Rates Hybrid Meeting Will be Held Wednesday, May 29 at 6 p.m. →

Obituary

Umberta (Berta) Rix nee Dottor, passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, in the
presence of her daughter, Manuela Rix, and son-in-law, Simon Fowler, with whom she
had lived, and been cared for, together with their children, Celeste and Madeleine
Fowler, since 2012. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Umberta M. Rix →

Obituary

José Botelho Paulo, Jr. passed away on Friday, May 17, 2024 at his home in Tewksbury, at the age of 90. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Jose Botelho Paulo, Jr. →

Helen DiFava Obituary

Helen DiFava (Aprea) of Roslindale, passed peacefully on May17,2024, surrounded by her loving family at the age of 102. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Helen DiFava →

Hi, I am William “Billy” Tauro an Independent candidate for Registra of Deeds for Southern middlesex county. I am asking for your vote this coming November 5th. Protecting your Home, Property and Fighting Public Corruption will be one of my top priorities if elected. Continue reading William “Billy” Tauro for Registrar of Deeds →

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

Your thoughts?

Here’s the latest not sure if you heard…. Coming soon… Central Street from Summer Street to Highland Avenue will be changed to a one way. Bike lanes added in both directions. The travel lane reduced to 12’ feet. All parking will be removed. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Central Street from Summer Street to Highland Avenue will be changed to a one way! →

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

Do you have an answer on this? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Where do the funds to run the water dept come from?? →

Obituary

Pinto, Joseph Anthony – 90, Of Medford, formerly of Boston’s West End, May 12, 2024. Beloved son of John and Rosa (Daniele) Pinto. Devoted brother of Margaret Henn-Robillard, Rosemarie Pinto, Helen Marujo and her husband Celemente and the late Salvatore Pinto and his late wife Angelina, Paul Pinto and his late wife Gloria, James Pinto, Josephine Fallon and Catherine Amato. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

A funeral procession will be held on Monday, May 20th in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home 855 Broadway, Somervile at 9AM. Followed by a funeral mass celebrated in Immaculate Conception Church, 600 Pleasant St., Malden at 10AM. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph A. Pinto →

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

Good job by Residents, Homeowners, former Public Workers, Commission members, Firemen, Councilor Scarpelli, and a Union Rep. These are just a few who were vocal at a well attended Community gathering at the Elks in Medford. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: More of “As the City of Medford Turns” and Need About Town →

Obituary for Nancy A. King (McCann)
KING, Nancy of Arlington, formerly of Cambridge, passed away at home, surrounded by her loving family, on Tuesday, May 14, 2024. Beloved wife of the late William F. King. Loving mother of William King of Reading, Deborah King of Reading, and Donna King and her fiancé John DeCologero of Winchester. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nancy A. King →

Continue reading CENTURY MASONRY RESTORATION & WATERPROOFING 781-990-9105 →

Obituary

VASANTHAKUMAR, Kumaravelu of Lynn, formerly of Everett, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, May 16, 2024 in the North Shore Medical Center in Salem. He was 73 years old. Born in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Kumarvelu lived in Lynn for 7 years. He was an accountant working in the Finance/Banking industry. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kumaravelu Vasanthakumar →

CARPENTERS AND LABORERS
Carpenters and laborers needed for all facets
of construction, from framing to finish.
Great opportunity for experienced, or novice, candidates. Continue reading CARPENTERS AND LABORERS Help Needed →

NIONAKIS CONSTRUCTION SOMERVILLE MA
617-285-0522 Continue reading NIONAKIS CONSTRUCTION SOMERVILLE MA 617-285-0522 →

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

I think that you’ll like these little ensembles of weekly true stories that I will be sending you. 

Back in the ‘80s and into 2000’s; when I used to hang in the bars, it was rumored a few things happened. A huge one was the 279 private properties eminant domained in Union Square Somerville. Major GRAND THEFT!!
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:The Real Somerville Story Page 1 →

On Sunday, 5/12/24 at approximately 2:58 AM Somerville Police responded to Memorial Rd for reports of shots fired. Officers located a victim suffering from two non-fatal gunshot wounds who was then transported to the hospital. Continue reading Shots Fired In Somerville →

Photo: Expectant mothers in Cambridge, Somerville, and Medford are invited to Riverside Early Head Start’s free community baby shower on Wednesday, May 29! Continue reading Riverside is Hosting a Free Community Baby Shower on 5/29 →

Click on link below to read May 14th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online May 14th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading May 14th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“This new program is paramount for nurturing a thriving creative ecosystem across the commonwealth. This funding is a catalyst for innovation, offering the recipients the freedom to explore new ideas, take risks, and push the boundaries of their craft.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill making driving with an expired license a civil infraction. Current law classifies it as criminal and carries with it a fine up to $500.
Continue reading DRIVING WITH AN EXPIRED LICENSE (H 3376) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would mandate that insurance companies in the Bay State automatically provide residential owners with insurance for damage to home and property caused by a leak in a residential liquid fuel tank or home fuel supply lines. Each policy would provide this coverage and homeowners can either keep the coverage or opt out.
Continue reading HOME OIL LEAKS (S 2737) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. The $375 million package, a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds, also includes $175 million for several transportation-related grant programs.
Continue reading $375 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES SIGNED BY GOVERNOR (H 4529) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a supplemental budget that includes an additional $251 million in funding for the Emergency Assistance Program that funds the emergency family shelter system which houses migrants. Continue reading GOV. HEALEY SIGNS SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET INCLUDING $251 MILLION FUNDING FOR SHELTERS (H 4582) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 5-33, rejected an amendment that would replace the bill barring electric suppliers from enrolling new individual residential customers in contracts, with a different bill that would have allowed the practice to continue and would instead impose more barriers for competitive suppliers to enter the market and provided the attorney general with more oversight authority. Continue reading IMPOSE REGULATIONS INSTEAD OF BANNING (S 2738) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 34-4, approved and sent to the House a bill that would bar electric suppliers from enrolling new individual residential customers in contracts, beginning on January 1, 2025.
Continue reading ELECTRIC SUPPLIERS (S 2738) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 27-131, rejected an amendment that would give priority consideration for inclusion in the emergency housing assistance program, when space becomes available, to residents who have resided in the state for a minimum of 12 consecutive months and are on the waitlist for the program.
Continue reading PRIORITIZE 12-MONTH RESIDENTS (H 4600) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 154-0, approved a budget amendment that would expand the existing Conservation Land Tax Credit (CLTC) by raising the annual cap for this program from $2 million to $5 million over a three-year period, beginning on January 1, 2026. Continue reading TAX CREDITS FOR CONSERVATION LAND (H 4600) →

Obituary

John Francis Mainey passed away suddenly on May 7, 2024 at the age of 75, he
was a lifelong resident of Somerville.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John F. Mainey →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is announcing the members of the School Building Committee (SBC) who will provide oversight of the City’s construction plans for a new school to meet the needs of the Winter Hill Community Innovation School and potentially the Benjamin G. Brown School. Continue reading Mayor Katjana Ballantyne Announcing New Somerville School Building Committee Members →

Obituary

Uccello, Ernesto George – Of Somerville May 8, 2024. Beloved husband of the late Paola L. (Caruso) Uccello.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ernesto George Uccello →

Obituary

Doherty, Brian P. – Retired Medford Police Officer of 32 years- Of Medford, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. He was 76 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Brian P. Doherty →

Residents, community members encouraged to review interview and submit feedback to help choose Somerville’s next Chief of Police

SOMERVILLE – Somerville community members are encouraged to provide feedback on Police Chief finalists. Search Committee interviews with finalists under consideration to become the next Somerville Chief of Police were recently recorded for public review. The interviews are now available online for viewing and comment.
Continue reading Somerville Police Chief Finalist Interview Recordings Now Available →

The Somerville Human Rights Commission and Commission for Women are seeking new volunteer members, and all Somerville residents are invited to apply. Continue reading Join the Somerville Human Rights Commission or Commission for Women →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville’s Police Chief Search Committee invite community members to provide feedback on three candidates in Somerville’s Police Chief search. Continue reading Give Feedback on Somerville Police Chief Candidates →

Somerville’s annual Water System Flushing Program begins Thursday, May 16, and continues through late October. Continue reading Annual Hydrant Flushing Program Begins May 16 →

The ‘Slice of the City’ spring meet-up series is an opportunity to connect and engage with City leaders and staff as well as neighbors, all while enjoying Somerville’s parks. Events continue next week with meet-ups in Wards 7 and 5.
Continue reading Join ‘Slice of the City’ Meet-Up Events Next Week: Ward 7 (5/13) & Ward 5 (5/16) Slice of the City →

Obituary

Pitts, Edward J. – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at home. He was 90 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Edward J. Pitts →

Obituary

DEYAB, Rose M. (Guirino) – Of Andover formerly of Arlington May 11, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Albert Deyab.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rose M. Deyab →

Obituary

Rigione, Leonard “Lenny”- Of Somerville, passed away at home on Saturday, May 11, 2024. He was 82 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Leonard “Lenny” Rigione →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne invites the Somerville community to join the first New England Hong Kong Festival on Saturday, May 18 from 4 to 8 p.m. Continue reading First New England Hong Kong Festival Comes to Union Square, Saturday, May 18 →

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Cambridge Health Alliance, a community health system serving Cambridge, Somerville, and Boston’s metro-north communities, recently hosted an exciting event for local students interested in healthcare careers. As part of CHA’s Career Pathways Program, high school students from Somerville participated in a special Saturday Program at CHA Cambridge Hospital. Continue reading Somerville HS Students Visit CHA Cambridge Hospital Operating Room to Learn About Surgical Careers →