All posts by thesomervillenewsweekly

Somerville Sharing Four Home Ownership Opportunities at 26-28 South St. and 115 Thurston St.


SOMERVILLE –Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and The Mayor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD), in cooperation with Southville Development Partners, LLC and 115 Thurston, LLC, are pleased to announce the sale of four (4) deed-restricted condominium to eligible, first-time homebuyer households at a below market price through the City’s Inclusionary Housing Program. The units will be offered to households with a yearly gross income at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI) at price tier P1 and to households between 80% and 110% AMI at price tier P2. Continue reading Somerville Sharing Four Home Ownership Opportunities at 26-28 South St. and 115 Thurston St. →

PLEASE SHARE SHARE SHARE this post to your family, your friends, your neighbors that live in my 44 cities and towns that we cover!

Please share to at least 10 people where early voting has already started and we have to win this election on Nov 5th! 🙏 I’m counting on you thank you!

VOTE William “Billy” Tauro Middlesex County Registrar of Deeds Nov 5th
Continue reading PLEASE SHARE SHARE SHARE this post to your family, your friends, your neighbors that live in my 44 cities and towns that we cover! →

Somerville Invites Kids of All Ages to “Truck O’ Treat” at City Hall

City Hall Halloween Celebration Will Be Held On Thursday, October 24, 5-7 p.m.

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, along with Somerville’s Department of Public Works and Parks & Recreation Office, invite all local ghosts and ghouls to “Truck O’Treat” on Thursday, October 24, from 5-7 p.m. outside City Hall (93 Highland Avenue). In the event of inclement weather, the event will be moved to Thursday, October 31.
Continue reading Somerville Invites Kids of All Ages to “Truck O’ Treat” at City Hall →

90 Washington St. – Letter from Bill Mahaney To Somerville Mayor

Dear Mayor Ballantyne and Somerville City Council,

I would like to introduce myself as the new Property Manager for Cobble Hill Apartments. You likely know Ms. Evelyn Ortiz retired in July after working at Cobble Hill for over 20 years. In time, I hope to earn the level of trust and support she received from the Cobble Hill community. Continue reading 90 Washington St. – Letter from Bill Mahaney To Somerville Mayor →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert H. Racicot

Obituary

Robert H. Racicot, of Medford and formerly of Somerville, passed away on October 19, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Somerville, he was the devoted son of the late Rene and Filomena Racicot. After graduating from Somerville High School, Robert enlisted in the US Navy during the Vietnam era, serving his country with honor.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert H. Racicot →

PLEASE SHARE SHARE SHARE to your family, your friends, your neighbors that live in my 44 cities and towns that we cover! William “Billy” Tauro for Register of Deeds for Southern Middlesex County

PLEASE SHARE SHARE SHARES to your family, your friends, your neighbors that live in my 44 cities and towns that we cover! Please share to at least 10 people where early voting has already started and we have to win this election on Nov 5th! 🙏 I’m counting on you thank you!

VOTE William “Billy” Tauro Middlesex County Registrar of Deeds Nov 5th Continue reading PLEASE SHARE SHARE SHARE to your family, your friends, your neighbors that live in my 44 cities and towns that we cover! William “Billy” Tauro for Register of Deeds for Southern Middlesex County →

Commercial Free WJIB – John H Garabedian is back!

By Joe Viglione

As 740 AM (soon to be 720 am) WJIB, 101.3 FM was playing “The Name of the Game” by Abba, I was thinking of half a century back (which is the point of the Memories channel) to when David Robinson of The Cars noted that Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson were “real craftsmen.” That stayed with me, and as I was hearing it again on WJIB, the bass, the overall sound, the craftsmanship survived these past decades.
Continue reading Commercial Free WJIB – John H Garabedian is back! →

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill

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 →

ADDITIONAL $600,000 TO FUND DIAPERS FOR CHILDREN PROGRAM

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 →

CHILD CUSTODY (S 2961)

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) →

CHANGE COLUMBUS DAY TO INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY (S 1976 and H 2989)

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) →

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

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 Launching VoteSomerville Tool for Voters to Verify Their Ward and Polling Place

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 →

Somerville Inviting Community to Join Annual Vigil Honoring Victims of Domestic Violence

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 →

Mayor Ballantyne Announces New Firefighter’s Union Agreement Enhancing Pay, Benefits, and Training and Education Incentives for Firefighters Local 76

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 →

Join SomerStreets Spooktacular “Monster Mash”

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” →

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! →

“I’m with Billy” 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 “I’m with Billy” VOTE William “Billy” Tauro Middlesex County Register of Deeds Nov 5th →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Elizabeth M. “Betty” Smith (Kelley)

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) →

Construction Advisory Group Members Announced for Winter Hill and Brown Schools Planning

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 →

Naveo Credit Union raises $600 for Boston Children’s Hospital through the Miracle Jeans Day initiative

(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 →

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill

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 →

HEALEY BLOCKS SUSPENSION OF GUN LAW CHANGES

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 →

FOSTER HOMES AND DOGS (H 4911)

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: Folie à Deux by Marco Cuda

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 →

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

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 →

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

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 →

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 →

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 →

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill

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 →

12.4 MILLION FOR ROAD SAFETY

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 →

USE INTEREST FROM STATE’S “RAIN DAY FUND” TO LEVERAGE FEDERAL FUNDS (S 2954)

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) →

School Construction Advisory Group Membership for Winter Hill and Brown Planning Announced

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 →

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:NEW BOSTON CONVENIENT STORE ROBBED AT KNIFE POINT AGAIN

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 →

Megalopolis Review by Marco Cuda

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 →

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

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 →

LIVING CURTATONE IN SOMERVILLE, THE TRUTH REVEALED OF ALLEGED CRIMES CARRIED OUT AND COVERED UP By Maria Curtatone Register of Deeds

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 →

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: November ballot Question to double the CPA your property taxes from 1.5% to 3%

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% →

Letter from the Editor: Somerville Police Officer Assaulted on Broadway

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 →

Religious Discrimination or Hidden Agenda? Pastor Launches Hunger Strike as Medford Mayor Faces Allegations Over Church Targeting

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 →

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 →

This Week’s Quotable Quotes On Beacon Hill

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 →

$362 MILLION SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 5050)

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) →

USE INTEREST FROM STATE’S “RAIN DAY FUND” TO LEVERAGE FEDERAL FUNDS (S 2954)

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) →

THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll calls in the House or Senate last week

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 →

Somerville Launches Western Pearl Street Reconstruction Project with Oct 9 Virtual Community Meeting

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 →

Join the Final Presentation & Performance for Exchanging Notes: Dance and Drums from Somerville and Tbilisi, Georgia

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 →

Religious Discrimination or Hidden Agenda? Pastor Launches Hunger Strike as Medford Mayor Faces Allegations Over Church Targeting

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 →

Letter from the Editor: Partial Paving” In Somerville A Bad Decision

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 →

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..

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 →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Kathleen A. (Dowd) Malone

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 →

MVES to Host “Feed the Need” Fundraiser Harvest Party Will Support Mystic Valley Elder Services’ Efforts in the Community

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 →

Living Curtatone In Somerville, The Truth Revealed of Alleged Crimes Carried Out and Covered Up

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
https://search.app/fGndiG6o7bipkzsw9

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 →

Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering Rita A. Grassi

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 →

As The City Of Medford Turns

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 →

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill

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 →

RENAME THE MASSACHUSETTS REHABILITATION COMMISSION (S 2941)

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) →

DOG KENNEL SAFETY – OLLIE’S LAW (S 2929)

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) →

SENATORS’ SUPPORT OF THEIR PARTY’S LEADERSHIP IN 2024 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 13

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 →

Second Stretch of Highland Avenue Paving Takes Place Overnight September 15 to 16 from School Street to Benton Road

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 →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Joan E. (Vangel) Cosgrove

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 →

Join the Somerville Arts Council Board Applications Due Thursday, October 10

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 →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Roderick, Regina (Cerasale)

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) →

William “Billy” Tauro’s first TV interview regarding political corruption and our campaign for Registrar of Deeds Southern Middlesex County

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 →

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: homeless are moving into other areas of the city!

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! →

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: New Boston Convenient Store Robbed at Knife Point

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 →

SPD Officer Priscilla Ribeiro awarded the Arthur W. Regan Award for her initiative and leadership in bringing National Night Out back to Somerville

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 →

Somerville Police Department Crime Log 8/27/24 – 9/2/24

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 →

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

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 →

RENAME THE MASSACHUSETTS REHABILITATION COMMISSION (S 2941)

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) →