By William Tauro
In this week’s Lawyers Weekly. What a joke the city looks like. AND where is the additional $26,528,000.00 million coming from?
City undervalues parcel taken for new public safety building Continue reading Jury Trial Orders Mayor, City of Somerville to Pay $35.3 Million Lawsuit over Eminent Domain Taking at Cobble Hill
By William Tauro
On the new Somerville MA Political Discussion Page I was asked a series of questions, and I would like to share my replies! And I strongly suggest that you check out this Somerville MA Political Discussion Page where they let you speak the truth, produce facts and voice your opinions without being censored nor blocked! 
Poster ask question:
William Tauro thank you. As a voter I’m tired of punch lists that generalize a host of goals. It’s what every candidate does. What of the 24 items you have listed are your top 5 priorities and how do you plan on accomplishing them?
Everything proposed costs money. We already know residents are taxed every which way. Do your plans include tax increases to execute? If not, what parts of the current city budget will be reallocated to achieve your goals?
My response to his last question: Continue reading Tauro Asked: What of the 24 items you have listed are your top 5 priorities and how do you plan on accomplishing them?
By Bob Katzen
“Recently, multiple news articles, op-eds, and think tank reports have asserted that Massachusetts is suffering an exodus of households, particularly high-income households, fleeing to states with lower taxes. A closely related claim is that outmigrants are taking billions of dollars out of the Massachusetts economy when they leave. These claims about income migration are both overblown and based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the available data.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would impose up to a five-year prison sentence and/or $10,000 fine on anyone who discharges an assault weapon, firearm, large capacity weapon, machine gun, rifle, sawed-off shotgun or shotgun into a dwelling. Under current law this crime is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a 30-day jail sentence and/or $100 fine.
Continue reading SHOOTING AT A HOUSE OR APARTMENT (H 1681)
By Bob Katzen
The Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities Committee held a hearing on legislation that would provide financial assistance to some human service workers to repay their student loans. Under the program, human service workers who work 12 consecutive months for a minimum of 35 hours per week and who have an individual income of no more than $50,000 can qualify for loan repayment of up to $150 per month for up to 48 months. Continue reading LOAN REPAYMENT ASSISTANCE FOR HUMAN SERVICE WORKERS (H 214)
By Bob Katzen
The Elder Affairs Committee held a hearing on a measure that would impose an additional $2,500 fine on anyone who is convicted of perpetrating a financial or other fraud against a person if the person is a senior or disabled individual. Continue reading FINANCIAL SCAMS AGAINST SENIORS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (H 613)
By Bob Katzen
The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would allow for the sale of alcohol on Thanksgiving. Continue reading ALLOW ALCOHOL SALES ON THANKSGIVING (H 353)
By Bob Katzen
The Emergency Preparedness and Management Committee held a hearing on legislation that would prohibit the state, cities and towns from requiring proof of vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of entry to any public buildings including state and local government buildings, all public and private schools and colleges and private businesses. Continue reading PROHIBIT REQUIRING PROOF OF COVID-19 VACCINATION (H 734)
By Bob Katzen
The House and Senate set Saturday, August 12 and Sunday, August 13 as this year’s Sales Tax Holiday. This will allow consumers to buy most products that cost under $2,500 on those two days without paying the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax. This annual sales-tax-free weekend was made permanent in 2018 and gives the Legislature the authority to set the dates by June 15 each year.
Continue reading SALES TAX HOLIDAY ON AUGUST 12 AND 13
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 exempt from the value of a person’s estate from the state’s estate/death tax that a person is required to pay following their death before distribution to any beneficiary. 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 9-30, rejected an amendment to a section of the bill that funds the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP). The amendment would require that HDIP projects must make 25 percent of their units affordable.
Continue reading 25 PERCENT MUST BE AFFORDABLE HOUSING (S 2397)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved a package that provides $590 million in tax relief. The House has already approved its own tax reduction package and a House-Senate conference committee will hammer out a compromise version.
Continue reading SENATE APPROVES $590 MILLION TAX REDUCTION PACKAGE (S 2397)
Adopted in January, the new building energy code has stricter requirements for energy efficiency and all-electric construction
Virtual information session for property owners on June 14 Continue reading New Specialized Energy Code Takes Effect July 1 in Somerville
Partnership with CAAS will deliver 500 unlimited MBTA passes to residents not served by other transit benefit programs
Pilot program is the latest of several transit equity initiatives Somerville has undertaken this year, fully funding more than 4,000 passes for residents, students, families, and workers
Continue reading Somerville Issues Free Transit Passes to Low-Income Residents
SCAM ALERT
BBB in Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT —
Moving this summer? Watch out for a new twist on fake rental ads. According to multiple BBB Scam Tracker reports, scammers use fake tenant credit checks to trick potential renters into compromising sensitive personal information.
How the scam works Continue reading BBB Scam Alert: How to spot a credit check scam when apartment shopping
Jones, Lawrence G. “Larry”—Of Somerville, passed away after a lengthy illness surrounded by his family and friends on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. He was 63 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lawrence G. “Larry” Jones
Why wasn’t CW TV actor Grant Gustin in the Flash movie? It will probably haunt Warner Brothers as this is actually the best DC/Warner Brothers superhero film of everything they’ve tried, including Aquaman and Wonder Woman. Continue reading THE FLASH REVIEW BY JOE VIGLIONE
Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville will host a Fourth of July fireworks celebration at Trum Field on Thursday, June 29 (rain date: Friday, June 30).
Continue reading Somerville’s Annual Fireworks Display Planned for June 29
By Arthur Moore
Heath Street was closed down today. And no parking on it. And that with the parking lost due to the Broadway Winter Hill failure there were many places lost to park in. Continue reading Parking Tickets cha ching in Winter Hill Today
EDWARD’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
Edward W. Robillard, 92, a lifelong Somerville resident, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Edward W. Robillard
SOMERVILLE_On Sunday, June 11th, members of the Kiwanis Club of Somerville participated in the East Somerville Main Streets, Carnival celebration. Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Club Bike Safety Day Distributes Bike Helmets to Children
Annarita Petrosillo-McNeeley, of Everett and formerly of Somerville, passed away suddenly at home on June 14, 2023, she was 53. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Annarita Petrosillo-McNeeley
Remembering my son, Brian Christopher Long
This Father’s Day weekend, please take a moment to remember – Never underestimate what we can learn from our children.
Rest in Peace, Brian. We all love you.
Brian Christopher Long, 51, of Boston and Provincetown, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, at Massachusetts General Hospital after a lifelong courageous battle with Cystic Fibrosis.
Brian was raised in Tewksbury, by his mother Pierrette Long, along with his father Robert ‘Bob’ Long and Brian’s loving step-mother, Muriel Long. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Brian Christopher Long
Bridget Anne “Bridie” (Mulkerrin) Naughton
July 30, 1953 — June 13, 2023
Dorchester
Of Dorchester, formerly of Callowfeenish, Carna, Co. Galway, Ireland, died June 13, 2023.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bridget Anne “Bridie” (Mulkerrin) Naughton
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
I have many families from MHS, along with teachers and students on my Facebook page so I wanted to make sure you all saw this email that was sent out by Paul D. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Let the boys in blue deal with REAL criminals!
MARGARET’S OBITUARY
Margaret F. (Breen) Benson, a longtime resident of Somerville passed away on Sunday, June 11, 2023, she was 92. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Margaret F. Benson
These are the deplorable living conditions that our Somerville Firefighters have to live in on a daily basis at the Teele Square Fire Station! Continue reading Deplorable Living Conditions at Somerville Fire Department
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Now the older kids near the high school are shooting birds with bee bee guns near the YMCA. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Birds Being Shot on Highland Avenue With Bee Bee Guns
Last night’s Budget Hearing ran for over 4 hours, here is my comment in case you didn’t catch it.
The Winter Hill building is a mark of shame on us all. How long will we continue to bear this shame? Over a year ago the City Council invited Somerville Educators Union – SEU members to testify about the state of the building. In response Mayor Katjana Ballantyne added a study to the budget. I am not sure what we need to study. The list of issues with the building goes on and on and on and on and it is beyond clear to anyone paying attention that the next step is to build a new building. Continue reading Rami Bridge’s Message From Last Week’s Somerville Budget Hearing:
Robbery
23030330: On 6/1/23 at approximately 11:17 AM, Somerville Police responded to CVS in Davis Sq for report of an armed robbery. Upon arrival, officers spoke with an employee who stated a male party entered the store wearing a Halloween mask then brandished a firearm and demanded money. Shortly after, officers received a report of a robbery in progress at Chipotle nearby. Officers responded and located a male party who matched the description of the suspect in the CVS robbery. He attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended. Officers recovered a fake gun and two knives from his backpack. He was placed under arrest.
Continue reading How safe do you feel in Somerville? Your thoughts? Somerville People Department Crime Log
Click on link below to read June 13th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 13th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading June 13th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
A bear was spotted wandering around Arlington. Residents received an IMMEDIATE Robo Call which immediately alerted the residents to take proper safety precautions… Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Immediate Emergency Response Warnings a Must
By Bob Katzen
“As a community, we must ensure our young people are working in safe and healthy environments. Whether it be for a summer job or year-round, younger workers – particularly those in low-income, immigrant communities and communities of color – are vulnerable to poorer working conditions and exploitation.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would establish drug repository program which would allow people to donate their unused medications, excluding controlled substances, and permit them to be redistributed to individuals who need them and cannot afford them.
Continue reading ALLOW SOME UNUSED DRUGS TO BE DONATED (H 1208)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would prohibit insurance companies from discriminating against a customer based on gender identity.
Continue reading PROHIBIT DISCRIMINATION AGAINST GENDER IDENTITY OF INDIVIDUALS IN INSURANCE POLICIES (H 1089)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would set a cap on the fees check-cashing stores and outlets are allowed to charge. Continue reading LIMIT FEE FOR CASHING CHECKS (H 344)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would allow businesses to qualify for a tax credit of up to $150,000 if they provide onsite day care for their employees. The tax credit would be equal to 25 percent of the costs of providing the day care.
Continue reading TAX CREDIT TO BUSINESSES THAT OFFER DAY CARE (H 2779)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would exclude from consumer credit reports information about medical debt arising from the receipt of health care services.
Continue reading EXCLUDE MEDICAL DEBT FROM CREDIT REPORTS (H 284)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an increase of $1 million (from $11.8 to $12.8 million) for elder nutrition programs including Meals on Wheels.
Continue reading $1 MILLION FOR ELDER NUTRITION (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would fund $1,526,000 for Court-Appointed Special Advocates, (CASAs) which are specially trained volunteers who represent the best interests of foster children in legal proceedings.
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved a $250,000 increase (from $1,036,958 to $1,286,958) for organizations that provide programs to assist legal permanent residents of Massachusetts in becoming citizens of the United States. Continue reading HELP IMMIGRANTS TO APPLY FOR U.S. CITIZENSHIP (S 3)
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Below is my letter to the Somerville City Council
Dear Council Members,
Thank you for your service to the community and for hearing the various concerns of Somerville residents. Currently we understand the budget is being reviewed. As residents our top priority issue is the proposed defunding of the police. Two police programs have been attacked. First, the neighborhood bicycle police defunded in a previous year; secondly, the proposed defunding of the COHR PROGRAM. Continue reading Letter to the Editor:City Councilors Defunding the Police
If Found Report to 911, Do Not Handle
SOMERVILLE—On Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at approximately 1:18 PM, the Somerville Police Department responded to the area of Edward Leathers Park and the Somerville High School for a report of two males armed with firearms. Continue reading Somerville Police Firearm Safety Warning Possible Firearm Sought Near Somerville High School
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division are pleased to announce that applications are now open for 41 income-restricted rental units at Arris (20 Inner Belt Rd. & 56 Roland St.) in the Inner Belt/Brickbottom neighborhood, available through the City of Somerville’s Inclusionary Housing Program. Continue reading Applications Open for 41 Income-Restricted Rental Units at Arris
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division, in partnership with 395 ABP LLC, are pleased to announce an income-restricted homeownership lottery for four affordable condominium units at The Parkway 395 (395 Alewife Brook Parkway).
Continue reading Four Affordable Homeownership Opportunities: 395 Alewife Brook Parkway
JOHN’S OBITUARY
John S. Beattie passed away suddenly at his Somerville home on June 6, 2023, he was 64. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John S. Beattie
Albert L. Libardoni, (86) a longtime resident of Arlington, passed away on Sunday, June 4, 2023 at Mount Auburn Hospital. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Albert L. Libardoni
Long-Awaited Community Path Extension Will Open June 10
Somerville Collaborating with MBTA to Install Additional Lighting
Path Will Temporarily Remain Closed Between School Street and Gilman Square Green Line Entrance to Accommodate Somerville High School Reavis Field Construction Continue reading City of Somerville Sharing Community Path Extension Opening Details
MARJORIE’S OBITUARY
Fraser, Marjorie C- Of Methuen, formerly of Malden and Somerville passed away at home on Saturday, June 10th. She was 75. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Majorie C. Fraser
SOMERVILLE – Kickstart your summer and join the City of Somerville Parks and Recreation Department for the annual Family Fun Day event on Saturday, June 24 (no rain date – event will be cancelled for inclement weather), from 1-4 p.m. at Trum Field (541 Broadway). Continue reading Join Somerville Family Fun Day on Saturday, June 24
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly,
Presently, The City of Somerville is besieged by highly-organized groups, large in numbers, who are extremely opinionated, send out hundreds of e-mails, in unison, to the city council, many other officials and also unify to appear in person to drown out and bully others who hold different points of view. Continue reading Letter to the Editor: POLICE FUNDING AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Somerville Firefighter John Gullage was presented with a citation at the City Council meeting on June 8, 2023. Continue reading Commendation Somerville Firefighter John Gullage
On Friday, June 2, 2023 three new Somerville Firefighters graduated from the MA Firefighting Academy in Stow. Continue reading New Somerville Firefighters
SOMERVILLE_ Earlier this week the Kiwanis Club of Somerville held it’s annual Legion of Honor luncheon at the Mount Vernon Restaurant. The Legion of Honor recognizes Kiwanis members after 25 years of continuous membership and service and again every five years thereafter. Today’s meeting honored four outstanding members for their dedication and service to the Kiwanis Club and the Somerville community. Continue reading Kiwanis Club of Somerville Legion of Honor luncheon
By William Tauro
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What’s in a name? Assembly Square in Somerville was named for the 52-acre Ford assembly plant that used to operate in the area. The factory closed in 1958, but the name still sticks, as the vicinity transformed into the new now “Assembly Row” shopping complex, apartments, and MBTA station!
Continue reading Where Is Our Old Assembly Square Ford Plant Watertower?
Monday, June 12, the RSJ Department is hosting a Juneteenth flag-raising ceremony. Continue reading Monday, June 12, the RSJ Department is hosting a Juneteenth flag-raising ceremony
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Can I ask you a question why were there no ambulances at the Somerville High School Dilboy Field Graduation the other night in case of emergency? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:I Didn’t Notice Any EMT’s at SHS Graduation
Click on link below to read June 6th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 6th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
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By Bob Katzen
QUOTABLE QUOTES – DAIRY FARMS BY THE NUMBERS EDITION
The Massachusetts Dairy Promotion Board in conjunction with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources announced dairy promotion grants to fund projects that will advance the image, sale of and demand for local dairy products. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would make colleges with undergraduate graduation rates of less than 30 percent or with an above average rate of students who default on student loans ineligible to receive state scholarship and financial aid funds.”
Continue reading COLLEGES MUST MAINTAIN CERTAIN STANDARDS TO RECEIVE ANY STATE FUNDS FOR SCHOLARSHIPS OR FINANCIAL AID (S 830)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require all state universities that have dormitories or other housing for students to have Narcan or similar opioid antagonists in each college-operated housing building. Narcan is an emergency treatment used for the complete or partial reversal of opioid overdose. Continue reading REQUIRE NARCAN IN COLLEGE DORMS AND HOUSING (S 849)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require high schools and colleges with programs that allow students to study abroad to prioritize health, safety and security in program development, implementation and management of study abroad programs. Continue reading PROTECT STUDENTS STUDYING ABROAD (S 820)
By Bob Katzen
The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee held a hearing on a bill that would allow liquor and retail store clerks to accept a valid photographic, non-duplicate motor vehicle license issued by other states as a valid form of ID to purchase liquor in the Bay State.
Continue reading PURCHASE ALCOHOL (H 369)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would increase funding by $400,000 (from $400,000 to $800,000) for grants to schools for the prevention of hate crimes and incidences of bias in public schools. Continue reading ADDITIONAL $400,000 FOR THE PREVENTION OF HATE CRIMES (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would provide $300,000 for the state to develop, research and recommend strategies to address the rising incidence of reported drink spiking in the Bay State. Continue reading $300,000 FOR DRINK SPIKING CRISIS (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would provide $1 million to support a hunger-free campus initiative to address food insecurity at public colleges and junior colleges.
Continue reading $1 MILLION FIGHT HUNGER ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES (S 3)
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 Retiree Benefits Trust Fund. Continue reading SEND 90 PERCENT OF CAPITAL GAINS TAX REVENUE ABOVE $1 BILLION TO THE RAINY DAY FUND (S 3)
On the evening of May 29, 2023, while in full uniform I was assigned to marked unit East-2, working the First Half Shift from 4PM-12AM. At approximately 10:06PM I was dispatched to 89 Porter St. for a report of a motor vehicle accident. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories (OUI Liquor, Suspended License) Arrest
I, Officer Mark McLaughlin of the Somerville Police Department, report the following summary of facts:
On Thursday, June 1, 2023, I worked my assigned 8 AM-4 PM shift in full uniform, operating marked cruiser West-6. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Attempt to Commit Crime x2, Resisting Arrest)
Albert Argenziano Obituary
Argenziano, Albert F. Albert F. Argenziano passed away on June 3, 2023 at the age of 82.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Albert F. Argenziano 1941 – 2023
DOROTHY’S OBITUARY
Dorothy M. Sears of Somerville, passed away peacefully after a brief illness on May 30, 2023 at home with her two children by her side. She was 79. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dorothy M. Sears
COLIN’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
Colin George Chisholm, 84, a lifelong resident of Somerville, died peacefully on May 26, 2023 after a short illness. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Colin George Chisholm
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is announcing $2 million in City funding support for area nonprofits, leveraging funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The online program portal is now open and will accept applications until July 31, 2023, at 5 p.m.
Continue reading Somerville Opens New ARPA Funding Round to Support General Operations for Local Nonprofits City nonprofits can apply now for operational support funding
MARY’S OBITUARY
BOUDREAU, Mary J. (O’Brien) – Of Winchester formerly of Somerville June 2, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary J. Boudreau
Somerville Kiwanis Club Official Photo:
Pictured above on the far let are Distinguished Past President David O’Brien, Kiwanis President Haley Adams, the nine student recipients atending are in the center and Scholarship Commitee members Eugene Brune, Past President Frank Wright, Past President and Commitee Chairman Anthony Ciccariello and Past President Isaac Machado on the far right.
SOMERVILLE_On Thursday, June 1st, The Kiwanis Club of Somerville held it’s annual Scholarship Luncheon at the Mount Vernon Restaurant to recognize twelve Somerville High School Seniors. The recipients competed for this scholarship by writng an essay which was reviewed by the Somerviille Scholarship Commitee, who selected the twelve recipients. Continue reading KIWANIS CLUB OF SOMERVILLE Annual Scholarship Luncheon
GERTRUDE’S OBITUARY
Dorson, Gertrude- Of Lawrence, passed away on May 27, 2023 after a brief illness. She was 65. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Gertrude Dorson
Somerville Firefighters Local 76
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT
Due to the station door failing 3 times since Thursday and now being completely out of service, Ladder 3 has been moved from the Teele Square station to the Highland Avenue station. Continue reading Somerville Fire Station Door Failing 3 Times Since Thursday and Now Being Completely Out of Service
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
I have been in construction for many years. Anyone notice that the older buildings were so well built they had a hard time knocking them down. Once new ones were built they needed a lot of work and some of it very major. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Winter Hill School Neglect By City Hall
Dear Winter Hill School Community,
Today’s update will be long because we have many new details to share. Please visit http://www.somerville.k12.ma.us for additional information and any new details we confirm over the next few days. We will continue to email the WHCIS community daily.
Continue reading A message from SOMERVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
Keep the celebration going at the Somerville Arts Council and Somerville Health and Human Services Department’s Big Gay Dance Party in Union Square Plaza on Saturday, June 17, from 5 to 8 p.m. (Rain Date: June 18). Continue reading Somerville’s Big Gay Dance Party in Union Square
By William Tauro
Poster Online Comment From Edward Faulkner:
As was totally predictable, this was a domestic crime. Which means it has nothing to do with whether the area is safe. And makes Billy seem even more unhinged for suggesting there should have been robo calls.
Let the police do their jobs and investigate this family tragedy. Trying to drag it into your culture war is just gross.
William Tauro’s Comment Answer:
Edward Faulkner, unhinged? Sorry that you feel that way about me. Aside from it being very cruel, it’s not really classy to talk like that.
If you don’t like me, personally, or you don’t agree with my politics simply just don’t vote for me, but keep it classy without cheap keyboard bashing attacks. Continue reading Letter from the Editor:Explaining Details of Last Week’s Murder to a Keyboard Poster Online on The Somerville MA Community Page Website
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
As I read this little paragraph: “A new ADA Field Associate will also add technical expertise to oversee Americans with Disabilities Act compliance across the city. Supporting a Healthy, Resilient Environment” Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Disabilities Act? Not in Somerville!
Dear Winter Hill Community,
First and foremost, we want to thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to ensure the safety and well being of our school community. We will update you throughout the weekend with any and all updates, and we want to share what we know right now. Continue reading A Message from SOMERVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Thought you would find this interesting, Billy. The conditions of the majority of city buildings is atrocious. With all the buildings the city owns, who is responsible for facilities inspections, building audits, etc. Seems like the city should have a huge staff dedicated to maintaining the aging buildings they own and expect their employees to work in. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: The conditions of the majority of city buildings is atrocious
By William Tauro
Can anyone please explain to me why 90% of Somerville City Hall is still closed? As I noticed the only departments that are open is the election department on the basement level and the Tax Collector on the first floor level. Why are all the other departments still closed and working from home? Is it just me finding this disturbing or is anyone else wondering why?
Continue reading Letter from the Editor:Why Is 90% of Somerville City Hall Still Closed?
Photo courtesy of Somerville Firefighter’s Local 76
Local 76 Mike Jefferson had the privilege of seconding the nomination to re-elect PFFM President Rich MacKinnon at today’s State union meeting at Florian Hall. Continue reading Somerville Firefighter’s Local 76 News Updates
By William Tauro
Somerville’s own Mike Salvi, president of Boston Proud, a non profit organization that gives back to other non profits. Continue reading CONGRATULATIONS TO MIKE SALVI SOMERVILLE’S OWN OF BOSTON PROUD
Robbery
23028731: On 5/24/23 at approximately 7:15 PM, Somerville Housing Police responded to 530 Mystic Ave for report of a past robbery. Upon arrival, officers spoke with a juvenile male who stated while in the area of the parking lot, he was approached by a group of males wearing masks. One of the males then punched him in the face and took several of his belongings.
Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Updates
SOMERVILLE – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Somerville Chief of Police Charles Femino have confirmed that April Monroe, 48 of Somerville has been charged with strangulation and assault and battery causing serious bodily injury on a person on a person over 60 in connection with an alleged assault on her mother, Gail Gasperini, 73 of East Boston, who was found dead inside the defendant’s Summer Street apartment on May 28, 2023.
Continue reading Somerville Police Department June 1st Crime Update
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly
Speakup Line,
Thank God my son is out of Winter Hill. I guess parents were not even notified. I don’t know anything about this, but Mayor What’s-her-Name and pure idiocy once again. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Small section of concrete fell onto a stairwell inside of the school
By William Tauro
As we all may know that Mayor Katjiana Ballantyne has submitted SOMERVILLE’S FY24 BUDGET this past week. Media Reports on the budget do not speak about Public Safety, Fire, Police nor Department of Public Works (DPW). The budget is full of new positions/departments on Social Agency’s across numerous non Public Safety Departments.
Continue reading Somerville Mayor’s Budget Rebuttal
William Francis Klessens of Salem, New Hampshire formerly of Somerville and Charlestown Massachusetts has passed away on May 30th 2023 at the Sancta Maria Nursing Facility in Cambridge, Massachusetts after a lengthy illness. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William Francis Klessens
Are you a wellness instructor, or have you ever been interested in leading a wellness class? Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES) is holding signups for leaders in its Healthy Aging Program. Class leaders will receive a stipend, training and mentoring.
Daniel J. Murnane, age 50, passed away unexpectedly at Lowell General Hospital on Friday, May 26, 2023 surrounded by so many members of his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Kelly (Kokolis) Murnane, with whom he had shared 20 wonderful years of marriage.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel J. Murnane
Lyndell’s Bakery is extremely proud to announce that thanks to the generosity of it’s customers, the $100,000 goal of the Sean Collier Memorial Scholarship Fund was met after this past Marathon weekend in April. Continue reading LYNDELL’S BAKERY ANNOUNCES SEAN COLLIER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND GOAL MET THIS YEAR
By William Tauro
Murder In Somerville
I am totally appalled that this past Sunday night there was a murder at 10:00PM at 157 Summer Street in Somerville and nobody in city hall had the decency to send out a Robo phone blast, and email blast or report it to the news stations to notify residents in the city of what transpired! Today, Tuesday morning and still no notification to the city residents! Continue reading Letter for the Editor:Murder In Somerville, City Not Notifying Anyone
Sadly Steve Delaney was in a fatal motorcycle accident may 27th 12:00am. His family is beyond crushed, heart broken, devastated and shocked to say the least. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Steve Delaney of Somerville
By William Tauro
“VIP” If you have receive one of these in the mail, don’t be confused just please make sure that you filled out your “Censes” portion of it so you won’t be bumped from the voting list and listed as “Inactive.” Continue reading Somerville Voters Beware of Postcards Sent from City
By William Tauro
The City of Somerville and the Department of Veterans’ Services hosted Somerville’s Memorial Day Parade this past Sunday. Continue reading Somerville Memorial Day Parade 2023
By News Staff
The Veterans of the VFW Post 529 – George Dilboy Post in Somerville bestowing the honor of dedicating a beautiful memorial wreath to Somerville Mayoral Candidate William “Billy” Tauro in honor of the wonderful stonework at their post in honor of George Street (WWII) and Thomas Kelly (Vietnam) and George Dilboy (WWI)
Continue reading Mayoral Candidate William “Billy” Tauro Dedication to Honor Somerville War Hero’s
By Karen Glover
The Members of The Somerville Republican Committee were honored to participate in yesterday’s Veterans Parade. Countless numbers of onlookers cheered for us along the parade route!
We welcome new active members. We are Proud Patriots and Proud Republicans! The Somerville Republican Committee meets once- a- month, often with a guest speaker, to discuss solutions to effectively communicate with Somerville elected officials. Continue reading Somerville Republican Committee Endorses Independent William “Billy” Tauro 2023 Mayoral Candidate
By Bob Katzen
The Higher Education Committee held a hearing on a measure that would prohibit public and private colleges from withholding a student’s entire academic transcript if the student owes the school money for any loan payments, fines, fees, tuition or other expenses. Continue reading COLLEGE STUDENTS’ TRANSCRIPTS (H 1277)
By Bob Katzen
The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee held a hearing on legislation that 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
The United States Supreme Court ruled that cities and towns that foreclose on properties on which the owner owes back property taxes, cannot keep all of the profits when the city or town sells the property at auction. Current Massachusetts law allows this practice. Continue reading COURT RULES AGAINST EQUITY THEFT
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment providing $200,000 for hiring additional staff for women veterans’ outreach, centralizing the administration of services and expanding transitional support for women veterans returning to the state. Continue reading $200,000 FOR WOMEN VETERANS’ OUTREACH (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment providing $200,000 for The NAN Project to provide mental health awareness and suicide prevention programming in schools and communities.
Continue reading $200,000 FOR YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION PROGRAM (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment providing $500,000 to The “Free Period Project” to provide free feminine hygiene products to students and low-income workers across the state. This program currently serves only the South Shore and the additional funding would expand it statewide.
Continue reading $500,000 FOR FREE FEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 4-35, rejected an amendment that would create a reserve fund of $575 million to fund future tax relief. Continue reading $575 MILLION RESERVE FUND FOR TAX RELIEF (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 3-37, rejected an amendment that would strike a section of the budget that would allow undocumented/illegal immigrants to qualify for the lower in-state tuition rate if they attended high school here for at least three years and graduated, or completed a GED. Continue reading IN-STATE TUITION RATES FOR ILLEGAL/UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 40-0, approved a $55.9 billion fiscal 2024 state budget after adding an estimated $82.2 million in spending during four days of debate. The House has already approved a different version and a House-Senate conference committee will eventually craft a plan that will be presented to the House and Senate for consideration and sent to the governor.
Continue reading SENATE APPROVES $55.9 BILLION FISCAL 2024 BUDGET (S 3)
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council invite the Somerville community to shake off the winter and join the SomerStreets: Carnaval street festival in East Somerville on Sunday, June 4 from 2-6 p.m. Returning for the 13th year, the Carnaval celebration will kick off the 2023 SomerStreets season, which includes a series of three neighborhood street festivals across the City.
Continue reading 2023 SomerStreets Festival Season to Kick off with Carnaval Celebration on Sunday, June 4 SomerStreets: Carnaval returns for the 13th year to East Somerville on Sunday, June 4th, from 2 to 6 p.m.
Invasive Species Displaces Native Plants and is Toxic to Butterflies and Deer
SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is partnering with community groups to raise awareness about black swallow-wort (BSW), a very aggressive and invasive, non-native weed that can be found throughout Somerville. Continue reading Somerville Residents: Help Stop Black Swallow-Wort This Summer
CHRISTOPHER’S OBITUARY
Christopher J. Merry, of Somerville, MA passed away suddenly on May 24, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Christopher J. Merry
Sessions will be held throughout June to give community members the opportunity to share their experiences with accessibility in Somerville and help create priorities for the City’s ADA Transition Plan.
Continue reading Somerville Launching Accessibility and ADA Focus Group Sessions
Proposed budget delivers major investments in youth, affordability, and infrastructure, with equity and sustainability at the core
Continue reading Mayor Katjana Ballantyne Submits Somerville’s FY24 Budget
MARY’S OBITUARY
Mary Ellen “Mae” O’Leary (Flaherty) of Somerville passed away peacefully in her home on May 26th 2023 surrounded by loving family. She was 91 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary E. O’Leary
Please read this:
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Like everyone I have talked to we had no idea what that card that was mailed to us was about. It looked like a form to get a mail in ballot form a fast look. I happened to see a post by Christine Doherty and from that it was obvious it was something we are supposed to do in order to vote. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Somerville’s 2023 election off to a bad start even before it begins
Click on link below to read May 23rd, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online May 23rd, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading May 23rd, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Buyers looking for their first, or next, home and sellers looking for the best outcome from their home sale can contact Janet L Ghiozzi at (978) 984-2038. Continue reading LAER REALTY PARTNERS Janet L Ghiozzi at (978) 984-2038
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WHAT OUR PRIVACY POLICY COVERS
Thank you for visiting our site. We are committed to protecting your privacy.
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HOW WE USE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
We collect personal information primarily to make our services more rewarding for you to use. We usually use this information for internal purposes, such as studying our customers' preferences. We may also use your information to contact you for account and promotional purposes.
WHO VIEWS YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
We may share your personal information with companies that perform services for us, such as delivering packages, sending postal mail and e-mails, processing credit card payments, investigating fraudulent activity, and providing customer service. They have access to personal information needed to perform their functions, but may not disclose your personally identifiable information for other purposes. Some personal information is stored on servers owned by other companies. Only our personel and our websites have the right to access this information. We do not currently sell or license personal information and have no plans to do so. Your personal information will only be used by this site.
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MAKING A PURCHASE
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