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

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

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

Dear Editor,

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

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

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

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

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

Your thoughts?

By William Tauro

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

Continue reading GoodNight Johnnys (781) 430-4968 →

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

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

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Click on link below to see video
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By William Tauro

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

By Bob Katzen

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

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Obituary

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

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

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

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

By William Tauro

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

By William Tauro

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

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

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

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

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

Obituary

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

Greetings,

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

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

By William Tauro

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

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

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

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

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

thesomervillenewsweekly

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

Ms. Rita A. Grassi

September 12, 2024

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

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

Just Sayin’

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

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

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

Obituary

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

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

Obituary

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

Obituary

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

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

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

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

Robert Cullen Obituary

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hi Billy,

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

Official Press release sent out by Deanna , Bobby and Paul

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

James Finigan
9/10/2024

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

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

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

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

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

Save the date! You’re invited!

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

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

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

Wednesday October 9th 6-9pm

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

Continue reading ADD 225 LIQUOR LICENSES (H 5039) →

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

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

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

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

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

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

Obituary

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

By William Tauro

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

Dear Editor,

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

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

Dear Somerville School Parents and News Stations,

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

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

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

Loretta Lynch Obituary

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

By William Tauro

Don’t be fooled, it’s right there in black-and-white they are quietly proposing to take more of your money. She wants to put it on the ballot to secretly raise it to 3%. Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Somerville Mayor Quietly Trying to Raise CPA Property Tax Surcharge Rate From 1.5% to 3% via November Ballot Question →

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

These are photos of my son‘s car from last night. The rats got underneath the hood and ate his wires and belt. One of the rats in the photo is alive. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Somerville’s Rat Infestation is Getting Worse →

Click on link below to read September 3rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online September 3rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading September 3rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“We all have an important role to play in protecting civil rights, particularly at a time when societal divisions and political polarization have resulted in decreased civility and increased intolerance. The Healey-Driscoll Administration remains focused on developing and supporting the programs, policies and initiatives that strengthen Massachusetts’ ability to uphold our values and embrace our differences.”
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House last week gave initial approval to a bill, approved by the Senate in July, that would allow victims of child sexual abuse to file a civil suit, any time after the abuse took place, against an individual who sexually abused a minor or negligently supervised a person who sexually abused a minor. Continue reading CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE (S 2932) →

Bob Katzen

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

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved legislation that would rename the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission to MassAbility, a change that supporters say will better and properly define the agency’s role in supporting residents with disabilities to live independently. In April, the House approved a different version of the bill and the Senate version now goes to the House for consideration.
Continue reading RENAME THE MASSACHUSETTS REHABILITATION COMMISSION (S 2941) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would prohibit the sale or transfer of any puppies and kittens under eight weeks old. Violators would be fined $100 per animal.
Continue reading PROTECT CATS AND DOGS (S 2908) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would allow public safety personnel with impaired health, presumed to have suffered in the line of duty, to submit an affidavit attesting that he or she did undergo a physical examination on entry into service, if their employer failed to maintain such records.
Continue reading PUBLIC SAFETY PERSONNEL (S 1666) →

Festival Celebrates Tenth Anniversary with Performances by Local Hip Hop Artists and Dances on Saturday, September 7

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council (SAC) are inviting the community to join Somerville’s Tenth Annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival that will take
place on Saturday, September 7 (rain date Saturday, September 14), from 4 to 7:30 p.m. in Union Square Plaza. Continue reading Join Somerville’s Annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival in Union Square →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is proud to announce more than $35 million spent on affordable housing, open space, recreation projects, historical preservation
and accessibility upgrades spanning the entire city, Somerville’s Community Preservation Act (CPA) is now marking its tenth anniversary.
Continue reading Somerville’s Community Preservation Act Celebrates 10 Years with Over $35 Million Invested in Affordable Housing, Open Space, and Historic Preservation →

Residents invited to help shape proposed Rental Registry and Energy Disclosure ordinance to bring greater energy efficiency, affordability, and more to renters

SOMERVILLE–Roughly two-thirds of Somerville residents are renters, and Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is determined to improve their access to the energy savings and health benefits of green energy upgrades often out of reach to renters–especially low-income renters. And she’s asking residents to help her do so.
Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Seeks to Expand Climate Action & Energy Savings to Renters via New Ordinance →

Obituary
James (Jimmy) Arthur Chambers of Somerville died suddenly on August 28th 2024. Son of the late Charles and Dorothy Chambers of Everett. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James A. Chambers →

Obituary
Bernard Semexant, of Lynn, passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2024, following a long life focused on faith and family. He was 61 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bernard Semexant →

Obituary

Mrs. Helen Irene (Becker) Farrell, of Arlington, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024, she was 90 years young. Born in Boston and raised in Somerville she was the only child of Irene (Lepore) and Frederick Becker. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Helen Irene (Becker) Farrell →

Maureen J. Lundy, of Stoneham, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday August 29th, 2024. She was 57 years of age.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Maureen J. Lundy →

Continue reading RADICAL ADVENTURES 978-561-6171 →

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Speak to Our Staff Continue reading RAPID MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION LLC 857-228-6682 1-888-480-8885 →

The auxiliary fire vehicle is over thirty years old. They been helping the community since 1942 , they have never had new equipment always used. The auxiliary fire pumps out basements for 100 years free of charge , with volunteers doing the work. Guess what, from what I hear the Somerville city council just turned them down for newer apparatus worth 12,000.00 dollars. Continue reading Somerville Fire Auxiliary Department Being Neglected →

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 For Middlesex County Register of Deeds Nov 5th →

Dear Editor,

“Do you know who I am?” The Privledged Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone has to go! She allegedly tried using her ex-husband‘s name who was a kernel of the State Police who divorced her who can’t stand her and she was told to get lost and try another name! Your thoughts? Maria Curtatone ordering the state police to let her son go because she is the register of deeds! Not!
Continue reading Letter to the Editor: Middlesex County Register or Deeds Maria Curtatone Ordering State Troopers To Release Son While Son Boasts It On Instagram “Do You Know Who I Am?” →

Paul M. Nolan
7/23/2024

Paul Michael Nolan, 49, of Somerville, Massachusetts, was called to eternal rest on July 23, 2024. Son of the late Elaine Ramirez Nolan of Cambridge and Ricardo Powell of Panama, he was born on May 19, 1975, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Paul M. Nolan →

Sylvia M. (Frongillo) Candelino
8/25/2024

Sylvia M. (Frongillo) Candelino, age 73, formerly of Boston’s North End, passed away on Sunday, August 25th at Bear Hill Nursing Center of Stoneham. Born and raised in the North End, she was the daughter of the late Emilio and Louise J. (Todesco) Frongillo. Sylvia lived in East Boston and Somerville, and was employed for many years in the Middlesex County Registry of Probate.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Sylvia M. (Frongillo) Candelino →

Click on link below to read August 27th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online August 27th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading August 27th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Our audit found that, under prior leadership, the Convention Center cherry-picked when it was convenient or not convenient to follow public records law, Chapter 30B, alongside its own policies and procedures with regard to state procurement and contracting. Deeply troubling is also the fact that prior leadership violated the law in executing a $1.2 million non-disclosure agreement – concealing allegations of racial discrimination.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The MBTA announced that expanded access to reduced fares for income-eligible riders begins on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

This new program provides riders who are aged 18-64 and have low income, with reduced one-way fares of approximately 50 percent off on all travel inclujding MBTA buses, subways, commuter rail and The RIDE. Continue reading MBTA’S INCOME-ELIGIBLE REDUCED FARE PROGRAM BEGINS ON SEPTEMBER 4 →

By Bob Katzen

The Healey administration announced $3.75 million in grants to 18 grassroots organizations to help reduce the harm caused by the opioid epidemic in communities disproportionately impacted by overdose deaths. The grants are awarded through the Mosaic Opioid Recovery Partnership, a new grant program designed to support underserved communities and populations that have experienced a high rate of opioid-related overdose deaths.
Continue reading $3.75 MILLION TO ADDRESS OPIOID CRISIS →

By Bob Katzen

Early in-person voting in the upcoming September 3 state primaries kicked off Saturday, August 24 and runs through Friday, August 30. Under Massachusetts law, all cities and towns in Massachusetts are required to offer early voting.
Continue reading EARLY IN-PERSON VOTING IS OPEN FROM SATURDAY, AUGUST 24 THROUGH FRIDAY, AUGUST 30 →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a maternal health bill that would require certified professional midwives and lactation consultants to be licensed; encourage the creation of more freestanding birth centers; establish a grant program to address maternal mental health and substance use disorder; expand the statewide universal postpartum home visiting program; and mandate that insurers provide coverage for postpartum depression and major depressive disorder screenings for perinatal individuals.
Continue reading MATERNAL HEALTH (H 4999) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 154-4, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of the entire $875,000 for a statewide college and career readiness program implemented by JFYNetWorks, a nonprofit corporation, to provide online instructional curricula to help students meet the Massachusetts state standards at each grade level and reduce learning loss and achievement gaps. The program would also prepare students for required assessments and college placement tests in middle school and high school.
Continue reading $875,000 FOR COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS PROGRAM (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 134-24, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $7.5 million (reducing funding from $10 million to $2.5 million) for programs to encourage graduates of the state’s public colleges to work as public school teachers. Continue reading $7.5 MILLION FOR PROGRAMS TO ENCOURAGE STATE COLLEGE GRADUATES TO BECOME PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS (H 4800) →

By Bob Katzen

House 155-2, overrode Gov. Healey’s veto of $650,000 (reducing funding from $1.5 million to $850,000) for loans to small businesses.
Continue reading 650,000 FOR MICROLOANS TO BUSINESSES (H 4800) →

On August 31, City to create remembrance flag garden for community members lost to opioid overdoses

Awareness and Narcan distribution events open to all in September

SOMERVILLE—Once again, purple flags will soon solemnly grace the front lawn of Somerville City Hall. They will stand in memory of residents whose lives were lost to opioid-related overdose in 2023 and beyond. The annual flag display is just one way that the Continue reading Purple Flag Memorial, Free Narcan, and Prevention Trainings Mark Somerville’s Observance of Overdose Awareness Day and Recovery Month →

Meetings for all seven wards will be held Mid-September through Mid-October

SOMERVILLE–Community
members are invited to join Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville City Council at the 2024 City Hall Community Meetings. Join us to get an overview of the latest City news, learn more about City programs and initiatives, meet your neighbors, find ways to
get involved, and talk with elected officials and City staff.
Continue reading Join Somerville’s 2024 Community Meetings Series to Learn About Latest City Initiatives from Mayor Ballantyne and City Staff →

Obituary
Alphonse Villefranc, of Somerville, passed away on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, following a long life focused on his faith and family. He was 95 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Alphonse Villefranc →

Obituary
Walsh, Robert W. “Bob” – Of Medford, passed away on Thursday, August 22, 2024 with his wife and brother by his side. He was 82 years old.

Complete obit to be posted. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert W. “Bob” Walsh →

Obituary
Sujittra Chaturongkul, of Somerville, passed away on Monday, August 19th, following complications from gastric cancer. She was 68 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Sujittra Chaturongkul →

Obituary
Virginia A. Zompanti, 87, of Medford, passed away on Friday, August 23, 2024.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Virginia A. Zompanti →

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

To the Editor:

With deep regret I wish to complain against the misuse of the Seven Hills Park, behind Davis Square.
The Park used to be a pride of all the residents of the park was the a desired recreation site for walkers, children and senior citizens.
Things have drastically changed within the last few months. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Neighbors In Uproar of Misuse of Seven Hills Park →

By William Tauro

Last week I broke the news about an alleged attempted crime of changing a deed/defrauding family beneficiaries with the assistance of the current Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone. Since the article of allegations came out and surfaced exposing the scheme, the property located at 44 Warren Street in East Cambridge MA. has been taken off the market. Continue reading Alleged Accusations Against Middlesex County Register of Deeds Maria Curtatone’s Conspiracy Scheme to Defraud Beneficiaries Out of Property Shares Thickens →

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

Dear Editor and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,

The city’s affordable unit they put me in CANNOT even pass building codes AND has TOXIC mold. I am disabled and this can be fatal for me and is unsafe. Why can ISD- Building Department conduct stealth meetings with landlord, but cannot return a phone call from the tenant? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: OPEN RECORDS: City of Somerville -and- Transparency: “Oxymoron You Think” →

Congratulations to Somerville’s finest Rachel Taylor and Haley LaMonte for being recognized tonight at Somerville City Hall, Continue reading Somerville Animal Control Division Recognized for Achieving a ‘No Kill’ status →

Happy 70th Birthday to my good friend Sal Caruso who is being recognized at Somerville City Hall tonight in recognition for his commitment as a lifelong Somerville resident making Somerville a better place. Continue reading Lifelong Somerville Resident South Caruso Turns 70 Years Old →

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. 

According to the family, the new beneficiary then took multiple personal loans against the property draining the properties equity by allegedly using the funds for a down payment on her new home, paying off her child’s college education and also elaborate vacations. 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 →

For the seventh year, members of the Kiwanis Club of Somerville delivered over 200 backpacks filled with school supplies for distribution to high school students who are most in need of assistance. The students who will receive these backpacks will be identified by the staff at Somerville High School and the administrators at Prospect Hill Academy. Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Club of Somerville Delivers Over 200 Backpacks Filled with School Supplies For Distribution to High School Students →

Click on link below to read August 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online August 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading August 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →