By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that imposes a prison sentence of between 90 days and 2.5 years or a fine of between $500 and $5,000 on a person who assaults a transit worker while the transit worker is performing his or her duties. The measure also expands the definition of assault to cover flinging a bodily substance including blood, saliva, mucous, semen, urine or feces. Continue reading ASSAULT A TRANSIT WORKER (H 4355)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that applies the federal law known as the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act to any museums and state agencies that receive state or local funding in the state of Massachusetts. Continue reading NATIVE AMERICAN GRAVES PROTECTION AND REPATRIATION ACT (H 3248)
By Bob Katzen
The House approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would prohibit employers from obtaining the credit reports of existing or potential employees except in certain circumstances including hiring for a position that requires national security clearance; a position for which a person is required by federal or state law to obtain a consumer report; and some executive or managerial positions at a financial institution. Continue reading BAN EMPLOYERS FROM ASKING FOR CREDIT REPORTS (H 1434)
By Bob Katzen
Governor Healey has issued an executive order that would pardon misdemeanor marijuana possession convictions that occurred in Massachusetts before March 14, 2024. Continue reading GOVERNOR MAURA HEALEY MOVES TO PARDON MISDEMEANOR MARIJUANA POSSESSION
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 7-32, rejected an amendment that would require a study which would make recommendations on employer-supported early education and care benefits, to include possible creation of a tax credit for employers that provide these early education and care benefits to their employees.
Continue reading CONSIDER TAX CREDIT FOR COMPANIES THAT PROVIDE EARLY EDUCATION AND CARE (S 2697)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 40-0, approved and sent to the House a bill aimed at making early education and care money more accessible and affordable for young families across the Bay State. The bill would make high-cost state grants for early education and care providers permanent; increase the income threshold to make more families eligible for childcare subsidies; and establish recommended salary and benefit guidelines for early childhood teachers commensurate with K-12 public school teachers. Continue reading EARLY EDUCATION AND CARE CHANGES (S 2697)
Program delivering local housing support to help families often underserved by federal and state programs
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne announced today the City of Somerville’s Office of Housing Stability’s (OHS) new Municipal Voucher Program that targets needed local support to families historically underserved by broader government housing programs. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Introduces Innovative Municipal Housing Voucher Program to Increase Housing Stability and Reduce Costs for Vulnerable Families
Third Annual Event Will Feature Live Music, Games and Free Refreshments
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Ballantyne, the Somerville Commission for Women, Somernova, and the City’s Department Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne and Partners Invite Somerville Community to Women’s History Month Celebration
Virtual Meeting Will Highlight Initial Design Concepts and Collect Neighborhood
Feedback
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 6 Councilor Lance Davis, and Ward 5 Councilor Naima Sait Continue reading Join the Morrison Avenue Flood Relief & Water Quality Improvements Community Meeting on March 25
SOMERVILLE – Are you passionate about contributing to the redevelopment and revitalization of Somerville’s neighborhoods? Consider applying for a position on the Somerville Redevelopment Authority (SRA) Board. The SRA is currently seeking applications for one open board position. The application deadline is April 15, 2024. Continue reading Join the Somerville Redevelopment Authority Board Help Shape the Future of Somerville’s Neighborhoods
Obituary
Mrs. Gladys C. (Arritola) Gomez, of Medford, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on March 13, 2024 at the age of 84. Born and raised in Havana, Cuba, she was the daughter of the late Concepcion (Pubillones) and Julio Arritola. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Gladys C. (Arritola) Gomez
Online Survey Now Available for Community to Share Ideas and Priorities for CPA-Funded Projects.
Virtual Public Hearing Will be Held on Wednesday, March 27, starting at 6:30 p.m.
Continue reading Somerville Community Preservation Act Program Seeks Input for Future Projects
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
On behalf of an all-volunteer community planning committee, we invite you to sponsor Massachusetts’ sixth annual Our Community Salutes High School Enlistee Recognition Ceremony on May 19, 2024 at Gillette Stadium. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Sponsor MA high school seniors enlisting
Obituary
Lisa “PIXIE” Ferrarini suddenly left our realm on March 11, 2024. The beloved mother of Briahnna and Joey, and Mema to Donminyk. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lisa “PIXIE” Ferrarini
This week Mayor Katjana Ballantyne announced the Somerville Office of Housing Stability’s (OHS) new Municipal Voucher Program to support Somerville’s most vulnerable families historically underserved by broader government housing programs. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Introduces Innovative Municipal Housing Voucher
Obituary
Daniel Crawford Hargrove 65 of Cambridge passed away peacefully, March 14, 2024. Dan was the loving husband of Susan (Gray) Hargrove of Somerville and the adoring father of Daniel Hargrove. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel Crawford Hargrove
Obituary
Regina M. (Murphy) Sullivan, of Medford, passed away on March 16th surrounded by the love of her family, she was 70 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Regina M. (Murphy) Sullivan
Obituary
LaVoie Huard, Nicole K. – Of Billerica, passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2024. She was 39 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nicole K. LaVoie Huard
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Note: This letter was written and then read before the Medford City Council on Tuesday evening, March 12, 2024.
It expresses my thoughts on the state of the city of Medford’s elected city council body and the direction they are taking us.
Thank you!
Anthony D’Antonio Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Medford Residents Speaking Up Against City Council
Dear Neighbor,
I hope this email reaches you and your family in good health and safety. I wanted to briefly update you about my vote opposing legislation to ban the social media app, TikTok, and share an important new resource during tax filing season.
Banning TikTok is the Wrong Approach
Continue reading My Vote on the TikTok Ban and the IRS’ New Free, Direct Tax-Filing Program
On Tuesday, March 12, we had the pleasure of meeting Nick and his mother Sheri. Continue reading Somerville Police Department News Updates
Giusti, Vincent N. “Vinny” of Cambridge, passed away on March 6, 2024, after a long illness at age 63.
Devoted son of Annette (Evangelista) and Primo Giusti.
Loving brother of Dona Maffei and her husband Michael.
Adored uncle of Gianluca Maffei and Ava Maffei.
Also survived by many other loving relatives and numerous friends. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Vincent N. “Vinny”
Click on link below to read March 12th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online March 12th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading March 12th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Of the 11 restrictions removed during this outage, one was the oldest in the system at over 900 days old. Continue reading MBTA Makes Further Progress on Expedited Critical Track Work on Green Line, Removes 11 Speed Restrictions
Obituary
Nicole M. Howe, of Taunton, passed away on January 19, 2024, she was 45. Born in Cambridge she was the daughter of the late Jerilyn (Sawdy) and Ralph E. Foster, Jr. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nicole M. Howe
John Anthony Scileppi, Of Andover, affectionally known as Jake passed away on Sunday, March 11, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was 46 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John A. “Jake” Scileppi
Congratulations to Will Parkes, Ford Christie, Marcus Odilon and Attikos Kaye who placed 22nd in the 1600-meter sprint Continue reading Somerville High School Friends and Family Page News
By Bob Katzen
By the Numbers Edition
Research by AAA has found that vehicle crashes tend to increase in the days following moving the clocks ahead in the Spring as drivers get behind the wheel while sleep-deprived and with their circadian rhythms out of whack. Studies have outlined the risks associated with drowsy driving: drivers who slept for less than five hours the night before may have a crash risk comparable to driving drunk, and losing just a couple of hours of sleep can double the risk of a crash.
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
Gov. Maura Healey announced a $20 million campaign to end veterans’ homelessness in Massachusetts.
Continue reading HEALEY ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES PLAN TO END VETERANS’ HOMELESSNESS
By Bob Katzen
The Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) at MassTech announced the launch of the Residential Internet Retrofit Program, a $22 million statewide program that will be used to equip public and affordable housing units across the state with high-speed internet.
Continue reading $22 MILLION TO EXPAND HIGH SPEED INTERNET IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that allows associate members of local planning boards to act on any matter before a planning board, mirroring the current law that applies to associate members of Zoning Boards of Appeal. An associate planning board members is one that is appointed to act in place of regular members because of absence, conflict of interest or when a seat is vacant. Continue reading LOCAL PLANNING BOARDS (H 3555)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill designating October 2 as Learning Disability Screening Day, to raise awareness of the necessity of screening for reading disabilities.
Continue reading LEARNING DISABILITY SCREENING DAY (H 4210)
By Bob Katzen
The House 154-0, approved an amendment that would require that veterans in the shelter program are automatically given the maximum length of time to stay in the program, regardless of other factors.
Continue reading VETERANS’ PREFERENCE (H 4460)
By Bob Katzen
The House 25-128, rejected an amendment that would expand eligibility for a program, created in the bill, which allows employers to offer training programs to assist individuals in the Emergency Assistance Housing Program in developing the skills needed to enter the workforce. Continue reading TRAINING PROGRAMS (H 4460)
By Bob Katzen
The House 154-0, approved an amendment that would require any funds spent for providing food for people through the program be subject to a competitive bidding process.
Continue reading REQUIRE COMPETITIVE BIDDING PROCESS FOR COMPANIES SUPPLYING FOOD (H 4460)
By Bob Katzen
The House 28-128, rejected an amendment that would change the state’s Right to Shelter Law which requires the state to provide shelter and other necessities to homeless parents with young children, pregnant women and recently the many migrant families arriving in the Bay State. Homeless individuals are not covered by the Right to Shelter law. Continue reading RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS (H 4460)
By Bob Katzen
The House 121-33, approved and sent to the Senate a supplemental budget that includes $245 million for the Emergency Assistance Program that funds the emergency family shelter system which houses migrants.
Continue reading SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET INCLUDING $245 MILLION FOR SHELTERS (H 4460)
School Building Committee to provide technical, fiscal oversight for Somerville’s upcoming school building
project
Continue reading New Somerville School Building Committee Seeking Members
Enjoy Free Music, Games and Refreshments and Learn About Proposed Neighborways for Glen and Otis Streets
Continue reading Join the Glen and Otis Streets Neighborways Block Party on Saturday, March 16
Corporal Manuel John Pimentel, of Medford, cherished son of the late Joseph N. and Evangeline (Incarmecao) Pimentel. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Corporal Manuel John Pimentel
Click on link below to read March 5th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online March 5th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading March 5th, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Obituary
Young, Linda L. (Wheeler)- Of Salem, formerly of Medford, passed away at home on Sunday, March 3rd surrounded by her loving family. She was 86 years old.
Born in Arlington, she was the beloved daughter of the late Oliver and Thelma (Provost) Wheeler.
Beloved wife of the late John T. Young who passed away in 2019. Devoted mother of Christopher Young and his wife Ginny of Stoneham, Laura Young of Salem, MA, and Timothy “Tim” Young and his wife Rainy of Saugus. Cherished grandmother of Kerri Thompson and her husband Mike and the great grandmother of Allison and Brady Thompson all of Wakefield. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
Calling Hours will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) on Thursday, March 7th from
4:00PM to 7:00PM.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Linda L. Young
Di GIROLAMO, Yolanda (Di Martino) Of Winchester and Somerville, passed away on Saturday, March 2nd, at the Lahey Clinic of Burlington. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Yolanda (Di Martino) Di Girolamo
March Press Outreach 3-1-24
Medical Equipment Program – Through the generosity of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and from the direction of Mayor Ballantyne, the Council on Aging is now able to provide Durable Medical Equipment at no cost to Somerville residents. Continue reading Somerville Council on Aging March Press Outreach 3-1-24
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is announcing that the City’s Summer Camp and Activities Fair is returning for 2024, providing families with the opportunity to learn about summer activity options available to their children and to get detailed information from program representatives about summer camps, recreational activities, and learning opportunities for children of all ages. Continue reading Somerville Families Invited to Start Planning Their Summer Fun at 2024 Summer Camp and Activities Fair
Obituary
Charles R Conway of Lowell, age 80, formerly of Weston and Somerville, died on 02/25/2024. Beloved husband of 10 years of Chunmei Qin, and previously 38 years of Mary E. Gallagher. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Charles R. Conway
BOSTON – State Auditor Diana DiZoglio appointed Alan Sager to the Center for Health Information and Analysis (CHIA) Oversight Council to serve as the healthcare economist for the remainder of an unexpired term ending September 30, 2025. Continue reading Auditor DiZoglio Appoints Dr. Alan Sager to the Center for Health Information and Analysis Oversight Council
Obituary
Poe, Corrine A. (Chiozzi) – Of Medford passed suddenly, on February 28,2024. She was 73 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Corrine A. Poe
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Re:Dispute Case Number 27343081
Dear Sir/Madam:
On or about 29 DEC 2023; an unauthorized withdrawal from this consumer’s USAA Debit Card for the checking account ending in 5745 in the amount of $2,036.00 was debited by Can/Am Hockey USA without prior knowledge or consent of this consumer. This action is less than ethical. This action is not legal. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: unauthorized withdrawal from this consumer’s USAA Debit Card
Obituary:
Ms. Peace DiPiro, of Somerville, passed away suddenly on February 23, 2024, she was 48.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Peace DiPiro
By Bob Katzen
“Retail giants have a responsibility to provide customers with the facts about the products they sell, including the health dangers associated with gas stove pollution and steps they can take to protect themselves and their loved ones. Our surveys have repeatedly shown that’s not happening. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
The Senate kicked off Women’s History Month on March 1 with the unveiling of a portrait of former First Lady and Massachusetts native Abigail Adams, the wife of President John Adams and an early advocate for women’s rights and women’s education who also opposed slavery. Continue reading WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH BEGINS
By Bob Katzen
The House and Senate each appointed their members of a conference committee which will attempt to hammer out a compromise version of dueling bills that would change some of the state’s gun laws.
Continue reading CHANGES IN GUN LAWS(H 4139, S 2584)
By Bob Katzen
The Education Committee has also given a favorable report to and recommended passage of legislation that would require every school district, approved private day or residential school and education collaborative that enrolls a student with a life-threatening food allergy to develop and implement a Food Allergy Management and Prevention Plan. Continue reading ADDRESS FOOD ALLERGIES IN SCHOOLS (S 150)
By Bob Katzen
The Education Committee has given a favorable report to and recommended that the Legislature approve a proposal would prohibit public schools from using an athletic team name, logo or mascot which is associated with Native Americans, or which denigrates any racial, ethnic, gender or religious group. Continue reading PROHIBIT USE OF NATIVE AMERICAN MASCOTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS (S 245)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that would change some of the language in the current law governing the content of birth certificates. Changes include replacing “both parents” to “parent or parents” and changing “the child’s mother” to “the person who gave birth to the child.” Continue reading BIRTH CERTIFICATES (H 4292)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate approved, on a voice vote without a roll call, and sent to the House legislation that would require that all public schools offering a comprehensive sexual health education curriculum “provide medically accurate, age-appropriate sexual health education.” The Senate has approved the bill four times in the past including a 38-1 vote by which it passed in 2023. Each time the measure died from inaction by the House.
Continue reading SEX EDUCATION (S 2686)
By Bob Katzen
House 154-0, approved a bill 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 (H 4446)
Obituary:
Bracken, Margaret R. “Maggie” (Ferguson) – Of Medford March 1, 2024. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Maggie R. Bracken
Obituary:
Reverend Harry J. Kaufman – of Sts. Louis and Zelie Martin Parish (St. Catherine), Somerville, MA, passed away after a brief illness, March 2, 2024. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Reverend Harry J. Kaufman
Congratulations to Patrol Officer Larry Crowley on his retirement after 25 years of dedicated service to the Medford Police Department and the City of Medford. Continue reading Medford Police Officer Larry Crowley Retires After 25 Years of Service
Click on link below to read this week’s February 27th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online February 27th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading February 27th, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
By Bob Katzen
“Nearly 70 percent of those deaths took place where we should feel safest – at home. Tragically, more than half of those deaths took place in homes without working smoke alarms. And about two-thirds of last year’s fatal fire victims were adults aged 65 or older.”
—State Fire Marshal Jon Davine on the 45 Massachusetts residents who died in fires last year. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
The Education Committee gave a favorable report to and recommended passage of a measure that would require that American Sign Language (ASL) be taught in all Bay State public elementary and secondary schools to increase interactions between hearing persons and deaf and hard-of-hearing persons, as well as children with autism. Current law allows but does not require schools to teach ASL. Continue reading AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (S 2589)
By Bob Katzen
Another proposal given a favorable report by the Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities Committee would create a pilot program to provide free diapers to low-income families at food pantries. Continue reading FREE DIAPERS (H 149)
By Bob Katzen
The Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities Committee gave a favorable report and recommended passage of legislation that would declare racism as a public Continue reading DECLARE RACISM AS A PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS (S 1412)
By Bob Katzen
The Committee on Cannabis Policy has given a favorable report and recommended passage of a measure that would require the Cannabis Control Commission and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to study and report to the Legislature on the barriers that first responders face about their legal right to use cannabis.
Continue reading MARIJUANA AND FIRST RESPONDERS (S 48)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill designating the Friday of the third full week of September as Noah Fernandes Mitochondrial Disease Awareness Day, in recognition of the Team Noah Foundation, whose goal is to alleviate the financial and emotional stress by providing transportation and home improvements to families with children who are affected by Mitochondrial Disease and other developmental disabilities.
Continue reading NOAH FERNANDES MITOCHONDRIAL AWARENESS DAY (H 4140)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that would modernize written state laws to reflect the evolution of terminology relating to persons with disabilities. Continue reading CHANGE ARCHAIC LANGUAGE REFERRING TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (H 4396)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would allow cities and towns to increase the current $300 maximum fine for parking illegally in a parking space reserved for handicapped persons. That $300 fine is set by the state and goes into the municipalities’ General Fund. Continue reading INCREASE FINES FOR VIOLATING HANDICAPPED PARKING (H 3261)
By Bob Katzen
On November 15, 2023, the Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters say would make major changes and reforms to the state’s pharmaceutical system by “lowering the cost of drugs at the pharmacy counter and improving oversight of the pharmaceutical industry.” Continue reading PHARMACEUTICAL ACCESS, COSTS AND TRANSPARENCY (S 2520)
By Bob Katzen
On October 26, 2023 the Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would allow pharmacists to prescribe, dispense and administer a short-term supply (60-days once in a two-year period) of HIV prevention drugs, known as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), to a patient without a prescription.
Continue reading HIV PREVENTION DRUGS (S 2480)
By Bob Katzen
On October 26, 2023, the Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would require all prisons, homeless shelters and K-12 schools to maintain free menstrual products, including sanitary napkins, tampons and underwear liners in private and public restrooms and to make them available in a “convenient manner that does not stigmatize any persons seeking the products.”
Continue reading MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS (S 2491)
By Bob Katzen
On July 27, 2023, the Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House legislation that would make it easier for homeless youth and adults to secure free state ID cards. Continue reading MAKE OBTAINING ID CARDS EASIER FOR HOMELESS PERSONS (S 2251)
By Bob Katzen
On July 27, 2023, the Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would allow Bay Staters to choose the gender-neutral designation “X” in lieu of “male” or “female” on their birth certificates and marriage certificates.
Continue reading GENDER X (S 2429)
The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries of Somerville/Medford News Weekly, Boston News Group’s News Publications belong solely to the authors of those commentaries and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville/Medford News Weekly, Mass Publishing and Boston News Group, it’s publications, its staff or publishers.)
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
You spend so many hours, adding up the days; stuck in traffic. What previously took five to seven minutes, now takes twenty to thirty or more. Construction at every corner. Roads reduced to less than one working lane, if any. POTHOLES that eat half your car. Instead of absorbing the intended stress, I observe what’s around me – Like WHO paid for the extra M’s in SoMerville?
When working construction in the 1980’s into 2000’s, I ordered signs for our projects. Every square inch and letter had a cost of ~$10., back then. Sitting in traffic for HOURS, almost EVERY one of these construction signs around us had an extra M. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Many M’s in Somerville? By Robert L. Peters
Obituary
Lynn Stevens, 79, of Somerville Massachusetts, died peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, February 19. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lynn George Stevens
“In recent months, we’ve seen droughts, flooding, and wildfire smoke across our region.
The climate crisis is very much here.” EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. Continue reading Another Year of Record Flooding and Drought
Obituary
Theresa (Pelagio) Oppedisano, of Somerville, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on February 24, 2024, she was 97. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Theresa Oppedisano
Obituary
Baby Boy Eliel Adombroso-Yoofi Koomson – Beloved son of Philip Koomson and Grace Amidu. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Eliel Adombroso-Yoofi Koomson
Late Saturday evening into Sunday morning, Medford firefighters fought a stubborn three-alarm fire in a two family home, at the corner of Riverside Avenue and Pleasant Street. Continue reading Medford Firefighters Local 1032 Updates:Three Alarm Fire Medford
Many long-time Somerville and Medford residents are probably frustrated with the current state of the Massachusetts Democratic Party. I sure am — and that’s why I’m running for a leadership position in the state party. We need change!
Let me explain what’s wrong and why. Continue reading Elect Rand Wilson for Democratic State Committee
Happy 100th Birthday to retired Somerville Firefighter William Griffiths. Bill retired in 1982 and was a proud member of Engine Company 2 running out of the Cross Street Firehouse then moving with the company to open their “new” quarters at Headquarters on Broadway. Continue reading Somerville Firefighters Local 76 News Updates: Happy 100th Birthday to retired Somerville Firefighter William Griffiths
Obituary
Richard V. McDevitt, Jr. passed peacefully on February 23, 2024 at 83 after a 20-year battle with cancers. He was son of Richard McDevitt, Somerville Fire Dept. who died in the line of duty, and Bertha E (Walsh) McDevitt. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard V. McDevitt, Jr.
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
FYI further fallout. People buying and selling homes in Medford has ceased. Without a fire chief the personnel in fire prevention cannot sign off on any smoke certificates. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:More Chain Reaction Fallout In Medford With Mayor and Fire Department
Click on link to read February 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online February 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Jimenez, Ana E. (Montero) – Of Somerville, passed away on Friday, February 16th surrounded by her loving family. She was 74. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ana E. Jimenez
Obituary
Happas, Christopher Of Somerville, passed away after a brief illness on Sunday, February 18, 2023. He was 59 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Christopher Happas
By Bob Katzen
“Massachusetts has the opportunity to be a global leader in Applied AI – but it’s going to take us bringing together the brightest minds in tech, business, education, health care and government. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
A bill before the Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee would ban the purchase and/or consumption by all Massachusetts consumers and entities of any product made in Russia.
Continue reading BAN ALL PRODUCTS MADE IN RUSSIA (H 343)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to legislation that would eliminate the current state law requiring that all fortune telling applicants must have lived in the city or town in which they are seeking their license to practice for at least one continuous year prior to filing their application.
Continue reading FORTUNE TELLERS (H 3893)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that makes online sales of cars subject to the same law as if the sales were executed at the dealership’s physical place of business.
Continue reading ONLINE CAR SALES (H 351)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 3-36, rejected an amendment that would maintain the current 90/5/5 law under which 90 percent of the capital gains tax collections exceeding $1 billion goes to the Rainy Day Fund, 5 percent to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund and 5 percent to the State Pension Liability Fund. The amendment would replace a pending 60/20/20 proposal that would send, in fiscal 2024 only, 60 percent of the $1 billion excess to the Rainy Day Fund while sending 20 percent to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund and 20 percent to the State Pension Liability Fund.
Continue reading SEND 90 PERCENT OF CAPITAL GAINS TAX REVENUE ABOVE $1 BILLION TO THE RAINY DAY FUND (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment that would remove a section in the budget that exempts tax revenue generated from the recently voter-approved Millionaire Tax from counting toward the allowable state tax revenue limitations, under Chapter 62F, which provides that whenever revenue collections in a fiscal year exceed an annual cap tied to wage and salary growth, the excess is returned to taxpayers. Continue reading TAX REVENUE FROM MILLIONAIRE’S TAX (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 5-33, rejected an amendment that would increase from $1 million to $5 million the amount of money that is tax exempt from the value of a person’s estate when calculating the state’s estate/death tax that a person is required to pay following their death before distribution to any beneficiary. The increase to $5 million would be implemented over ten years. Continue reading INCREASE ESTATE/DEATH TAX EXEMPTION (S 2397)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 5-32, rejected an amendment that would reduce the short-term capital gains tax from 12 percent to 5 percent.
Continue reading REDUCE SHORT TERM CAPITAL GAINS TAX (S 2397)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 33-5, approved an amendment that would require Massachusetts couples who file income tax returns jointly at the federal level do the same at the state level.
Continue reading FILE TAXES JOINTLY (S 2387)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-1, approved a tax relief package that supporters said will provide $561.3 million in tax relief in fiscal year 2024 and $1.02 billion per year in subsequent years.
Continue reading TAX RELIEF PACKAGE (H 4104)
Obituary
Covino, Jr. James J. – Of Tewksbury, formerly of Somerville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. He was 86. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James J Covino, Jr
Obituary
Maria Angelina de Freitas Terra Alvernaz, of Medford, Massachusetts, passed away at home surrounded by the love of her family on Ash Wednesday and Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2024, she was a young 95. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Maria Angelina Alvernaz
Obituary
Ellen J. Maloney, affectionately known as Josie, formerly Healy, a cherished wife, mother, Nana, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 16. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ellen “Josie” Maloney
Obituary
Austin, David N. “Ozzie” – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully holding his beloved partner Gail’s hand on Thursday, February 15, 2024. He was 69 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering David N. Austin
Obituary
Hegarty, Paul E. a resident of Peabody and formerly of Cambridge, Arlington and Cape Cod passed away at home peacefully surrounded by his loving family.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Paul E Hegarty
Obituary
Mecrones, Anne Marie – Of Medford, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 16, 2024 after a courageous battle with dementia. She was 90 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Anne Marie Mecrones
The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries of Somerville/Medford News Weekly, Boston News Group’s News Publications belong solely to the authors of those commentaries and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville/Medford News Weekly, Mass Publishing and Boston News Group, it’s publications, its staff or publishers.)
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
If I were recently found guilty of a few crimes, awaing sentencing that totals a few decades incarcerated, crimes I CLEARLY committed; I would be seeking ANY way to reduce those years to see my loved ones before we all leave the planet. ANYTHING to make that a free me sooner, ANYTHING.
Maybe if I owned a piece of land I would find a way to work the system. A system I had only ever learned to play. I never studied hard or learned the rules, because I never thought they would apply to me or my friends. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Good Friends Playing Musical Chairs, LLC By: Robert L. Peters
Click on link below to read February 13th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online February 13th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1) Continue reading February 13th, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
By Bob Katzen
“Because of a successful vaccination campaign that effectively eliminated measles in the United States in 2000, many people may not be aware that measles, which is transmitted via exposure to contact with airborne droplets, is highly contagious and can lead to serious and life-threatening complications. Children and those with compromised immune systems are especially at risk.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
Would prohibit landlords from requiring their tenants to re-sign a lease more than three months in advance of the termination of their current lease.
Continue reading RE-SIGNING LEASES (H 264)
By Bob Katzen
Would allow cities and towns to permit restaurants that are licensed to serve alcohol to offer discounted prices on alcoholic beverages during dates and time periods specified by the city or town. The measure prohibits any alcohol from being discounted after 10 p.m.
Continue reading REVIVE “HAPPY HOURS” (S 157)
By Bob Katzen
Would require grocery stores to apply all available digital coupons to the orders of senior citizens over 65, even if the person does not have the digital coupons on their phone.
Continue reading DIGITAL COUPONS FOR SENIORS (H 4154)
By Bob Katzen
Would restrict telemarketing companies doing business in the state by allowing businesses to sign up for a “Do Not Call” list and fining companies up to $5,000 if they call a business on the list. Current law only allows individual consumers to sign up for the list.
Continue reading ALLOW BUSINESSES TO OPT INTO “DO NOT CALL” LIST (S 202)
By Bob Katzen
The Public Health Committee’s hearing included legislation that would create the Veteran Breakthrough Treatments Program to support the development and deployment of treatments that have been designated as “breakthrough therapies” for veterans and first responders. Breakthrough Therapy designation is given by the FDA to treatments that clinical evidence has shown to be extremely promising.
Continue reading VETERANS BREAKTHROUGH TREATMENT PROGRAM (H 4218)
By Bob Katzen
A bill heard by the Higher Education Committee would require public state colleges to provide students and employees with mental health awareness and prevention programming. This would cover vital topics including signs of mental health issues and substance abuse, where to access mental health resources and crisis intervention strategies. Continue reading MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS (H 4142)
By Bob Katzen
The Committee on Emergency Preparedness and Management held a hearing on a measure that would create an emergency disaster relief program managed by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and funded with $250 million from excess capital gains revenue that would otherwise be transferred to the Rainy Day Fund.
Continue reading CREATE EMERGENCY DISASTER RELIEF PROGRAM (S 2506)
By Bob Katzen
Nomination papers are now available for candidates who are planning to run for office in the September 2024 primary election and November 2024 general election. Under state law, candidates are required to gather a certain number of signatures in order to qualify for the ballot. Papers are available in the Office of the Secretary of the State’s Elections Division, located at 1 Ashburton Place in Boston and Galvin’s other offices in Springfield and Fall River. Continue reading NOMINATION PAPERS NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2024 CANDIDATES
By Bob Katzen
(No bill number yet assigned) – The Committee on Higher Education has given a favorable report to and recommended passage of a bill that would prohibit public and private colleges in the Bay State colleges from using “legacy admissions” – a tradition that gives to a boost in a prospective student’s odds of admission to a college just because the applicant is related to a current student or alumnus.
Continue reading PROHIBIT “LEGACY” COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
By Bob Katzen
The House has given initial approval to a bill that would require that any group or individual soliciting contributions for a charitable organization by mail or telephone, to inform potential donors what percentage of contributions go directly to the charity.
Continue reading CHARITABLE DONATIONS (H 2280)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0 (No House roll call), approved Gov. Maura Healey’s reorganization plan that would split the current Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development into two separate cabinet level departments: the new Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities and the renamed Secretary of Economic Development.
Continue reading NEW CABINET POSITION: SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND LIVABLE COMMUNITIES (H 43)
By Bob Katzen
The House 132-26, (Senate on a voice vote without a roll call vote), approved a proposal that beginning on December 1, 2023, would provide free phone calls and video calls for all prisoners in Massachusetts. Continue reading FREE PHONE CALLS FOR PRISONERS (H 4051)
By Bob Katzen
The House 155-1, Senate 38-1, approved a tax relief package that supporters say will provide $561.3 million in tax relief in fiscal year 2024 and $1.02 billion per year in subsequent years.
Continue reading TAX RELIEF PACKAGE (H 4104)
By Bob Katzen
The House 157-0, Senate 38-0, approved a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. Continue reading $375 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES (S 2375)
By Bob Katzen
The House 153-0, Senate 39-0, approved a $388.6 million fiscal 2023 supplemental budget.
Continue reading $388.6 MILLION FISCAL 2023 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 3548)
By Bob Katzen
The House 156-2, Senate 39-0, approved a $56.2 billion fiscal 2024 state budget for the fiscal year that began July 1, 2023. The price tag represents a $3.8 billion increase over last year’s fiscal 2023 budget. Continue reading $56.2 BILLION FISCAL 2024 STATE BUDGET (H 4040)
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