Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
The only way this was done.
Was by the help of William Tauro ..
For the longest time I’ve been calling the city of SOMERVILLE & my request were fallen on deaf ears .. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Dangerous Sidewalk Finally Repaired
Top photo:Leonid Volkov Booking Photo Coutesty of Medford Police Department
MEDFORD – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Medford Chief of Police Jack Buckley have confirmed that the bodies of Kiryl Schukin, 37 and Pavel Vekshin, 28 were located early yesterday morning (Saturday) inside a storage unit on North Beacon Street in Brighton. The investigation indicates that both men succumbed to stab wounds. Leonid Volkov, 37, of Medford, who was known to the victims has been arrested and charged with murder. Continue reading Medford-Bodies of Two Missing Men Located, Man Charged in Connection with Murder
This past Thursday morning arrest teams fanned out across the Greater Springfield area and arrested seven members of a crew suspected of stealing catalytic converters from vehicles in Massachusetts and New Hampshire over the last two years. Continue reading JOINT INVESTIGATION SMASHES MASSIVE CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFT RING
By William Tauro
Now You See It, Now You Don’t!
They took out the giraffe that was in front of Legoland at Assembly Row to put in a new Rainbow 🌈 colored one! It’s going to be installed soon!
The sad part of it is that in 2017 the giraffe was renamed Geo after a Medford boy who died after battling congenital heart problems. Let’s see if they keep Gio as a name?
Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Now You See It, Now You Don’t! Giraffe Named After Deceased Medford Boy Removed
Click on link below to read April 11th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 11th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading April 11th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
The City of Somerville is participating in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this month, hosting two collection events for residents to safely dispose of prescription medications. Continue reading Somerville to Participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, April 22
Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division are pleased to announce that applications are now open for 18 income-restricted rental units at Union 346 (346 Somerville Ave.) in Union Square, available through the City of Somerville’s Inclusionary Housing Program. Units are available to households making at or below 50%, 80%, and 110% of the Area Median Income. The lottery includes 15 studios and three 1-bedroom units. Continue reading Applications Open for 18 Income-Restricted Rental Units at 346 Somerville Ave.
GIUSEPPE’S OBITUARY:
Piccirilli, Giuseppe– Of Somerville, passed away at his home on Sunday, April 9, 2023. He was 90 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Giuseppe Piccirilli
FEDERICO’S OBITUARY:
Stuto, Federico– Of Somerville, passed away at home on Saturday, April 8, 2023. He was 78 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Federico Stuto
Mary L. (Kennedy) Toomey, 77, of Belmont and Somerville, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on April 3, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary L. (Kennedy) Toomey
By Bob Katzen
“The cost of labor remains an elevated concern for small business owners, many of whom still can’t hire qualified workers. Beacon Hill must heed the warnings from beleaguered employers and reject special interest group demands to increase the minimum wage to an unsustainable $20 per hour. Further driving up the cost of doing business would be detrimental to economic growth and could not only put a chill on job creation but increase the cost of products and services for Massachusetts consumers.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
Another bill heard by the Judiciary Committee would create a registry of Massachusetts residents convicted of abusing animals and require the abusers to register. A first conviction of failure to register would be punishable by up to five years in jail and/or up to a $1,000 fine. Subsequent convictions would result in a mandatory 5-year prison sentence.
Continue reading ANIMAL ABUSE REGISTRY (H 1557)
By Bob Katzen
A bill that would make it a crime for anyone to misrepresent that a dog or other animal is a service animal was heard by the Judiciary Committee. First-time offenders would be required to perform 30 hours of community service for an organization that serves individuals with disabilities and/or up to a $500 fine. Subsequent offenses would be punishable by 60 hours of community service and/or up to a $1,000 fine.
Continue reading FAKE SERVICE ANIMALS (H 1481)
By Bob Katzen
The Election Laws Committee held a hearing on a proposed constitutional amendment that would establish a seven-member redistricting commission to draw Massachusetts legislative and congressional districts every 10 years. The plan then would be submitted to the Legislature, which would vote it up or down. The amendment would replace current law which allows the Legislature itself to draw the districts.
Continue reading ESTABLISH INDEPENDENT REDISTRICTING COMMISSION (S 7)
By Bob Katzen
A new Massachusetts law that took effect last week would allow car dealers and sellers in Massachusetts to provide temporary 9-day license plates for vehicles that are purchased by out-of-state residents and allow them to use the plates until the vehicle can be driven to and registered in their home state. The measure went into effect last week but was originally approved by the Legislature and signed into law by former Gov. Charlie Baker in January. Under Massachusetts law, most new laws take effect 90 days following the governor’s signing of them.
Continue reading ALLOW TEMPORARY LICENSE PLATES
By Bob Katzen
One hundred and three of the current 158 representatives receive an additional stipend, ranging from $7,096 to $109,163, above the $73,655 base salary, for their positions in the Democratic and Republican leadership, as committee chairs, vice chairs and the ranking Republican on some committees. Fifty-five representatives do not receive a stipend. The stipend is increased or decreased every two years based on data from the BEA that measures the quarterly change in salaries and wages. Continue reading EXTRA PAY FOR 103 REPRESENTATIVES
By Bob Katzen
The new base salary for the 2023-2024 session for representatives is $73,655—up $3,119 (4.4 percent) from the $70,536 base salary in the 2021-2022 session.
Continue reading $73,655 BASE SALARY FOR ALL 158 REPRESENTATIVES
BBB in Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT —
You may have encountered a fake invoice if you are running a small business (or keeping books for one). Phony bills have long been a favorite and effective trick of scammers. Recently, BBB Scam Tracker has gotten multiple reports of a new version of this scam, where con artists pretend to be contacting you as part of the Geek Squad, which is owned by Best Buy (BBB Accredited Business) or through PayPal (BBB Accredited Business). Continue reading BBB Scam Alert: Small businesses spot an invoice scam posing as the Geek Squad or PayPal
The Center for the Arts at the Armory in Somerville, MA is excited to announce our annual fundraising gala Night in Bloom on Thursday, May 11th. Headlining the event will be renowned balafon player, “djeli,” and NEA National Heritage Fellow Balla Kouyate, currently based in Medford, MA and originally from Mali. Guitarist Maurizio Fiore Salas will perform for the VIP hour, and DJ Saucy Lady will be spinning throughout the night alongside pop-up performances by students from Deborah Mason Performing Arts Center. Continue reading The Center for Arts at the Armory Announces Night in Bloom Gala 2023
BBB in Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT —
To trick you, scammers need to earn your trust first. What better way than by posing as a popular celebrity? Recently, BBB Scam Tracker has received numerous reports involving products supposedly endorsed by well-known and trusted celebrities. With the rise in deepfake scams and ever-improving AI technology, these phony endorsements are more convincing than ever.
Continue reading Scam Alert: Celebrity impersonations get more sophisticated with AI technology
Five $1,000 municipal scholarships are available for high school seniors graduating in 2023 through the City of Somerville Municipal Scholarship Committee. Applicants must be residents of Somerville who have been accepted to an accredited post-secondary institution.
Continue reading Municipal Scholarships Available for High School Seniors
April 10-14 is Week of the Young Child, an annual celebration designated by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families. Continue reading One Somerville, Every Child: Celebrate ‘Week of the Young Child’ on April 12
DONALD’S OBITUARY:
Desrochers, Donald L. Sr.– Of Malden, passed away surrounded by his loving family after a brief but fierce battle with cancer on April 4, 2023. He was 54 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Donald L. Desrochers
Somerville residents ages 17 and older can apply now to review ideas submitted for the City’s first-ever round of Participatory Budgeting
Applications due May 20, 2023 Continue reading Apply Today To Review Participatory Budgeting Ideas as a Budget Delegate Volunteer
Somerville to host parade on Sunday, May 28; remembrance ceremony will immediately follow
Continue reading Somerville’s Memorial Day Parade Returns This Year
Informational session will be held on April 12, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the East Somerville Community School Cafeteria, 50 Cross St.
Continue reading Somerville Workers and Small Employers Invited to Attend Employment-Based Residency Information Session Hosted by Pathways for Immigrant Workers and City of Somerville
Edward J. Novi, a lifelong resident of Medford, passed away on April 5, 2023, he was 91. Born in Somerville and raised in Medford he was the son of the late Louise (Nazzaro) and Joseph Novi. Edward proudly served our nation in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. Following his honorable discharge, he began his career with the Brinks Company as an armored truck driver.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Edward J. Novi
On Thursday April 6th 2023 I was on duty, assigned to uniform patrol cruiser east 1. At approximately 8:10AM, I was dispatched to 220 Broadway, Dunkin Donuts, for a report of an unwanted inebriated male inside the store refusing to leave. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Trespass, Resisting Arrest, Intimidation)Arrest
Cabral, Filomena Rosa (Sousa) of Lynn, April 7, 2023, at age 84. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering MRS. FILOMENA ROSA CABRAL
Dona Mae (McCutcheon) Scannell, 80, of Cambridge. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dona Mae (McCutcheon) Scannell
The City of Somerville seeks one registered Republican to serve on the Board of Elections Commissioners. The Board consists of four people who represent each of the two leading political parties (Democrats and Republicans), as defined in Chapter 50, Section 1 of the Massachusetts General Laws. Continue reading Somerville Board of Elections Commissioners Seeks One New Member
Meetings for All Seven Wards Will Be Held End of April through Mid-May
SOMERVILLE – Community members are invited to join Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City Council at the spring 2023 City Hall Community Meetings. These meetings are held twice a year in each of Somerville’s seven wards to share the latest City and neighborhood updates with community members. They are an opportunity 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 Spring 2023 Schedule Announced for City Hall Community Meetings Series With the Mayor and City Councilors
Community Members Sought for Anti-Violence Working Group to Collaborate with RSJ, City staff, and the Urban Peace Institute to Help Create Violence Reduction Proposals
Deadline to Apply Is Friday, April 28 Continue reading Somerville to Partner with Nationally Recognized Urban Peace Institute on Anti-Violence Initiative
PorchFest Somerville 2023 will take place on Saturday, May 13th (rain date 14th) from 12-6pm
Designated Times:
12-2pm – West (west of Willow)
2-4pm – Central (from Willow to Central)
4-6pm – East (east of Central) Continue reading Somerville Porch Fest 2023
Other Crimes:
• 2 Car Breaks
• 1 Bike Theft
• 2 MV Vandalisms
• 2 Package Thefts
• 1 MV Theft
Continue reading Somerville Police Department Crime Log 3/28/2023 -4/3/2023
Assault
23014822: On 3/22/23 at approximately 12:57 AM, Somerville Police responded to the MBTA station on College Ave for report of two males fighting. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the two males who stated they got into a verbal argument that escalated into a fight. One of the male parties suffered minor injuries.
Assault Continue reading Somerville Police Department Crime Log 3/21/2023 – 3/27/2023
By William Tauro
So much for Somerville being known as “tree city USA” they have close to a dozen trees on Powderhouse Boulevard alone labeled unsafe all lined up in the row to be cut down. Why all of a sudden? Continue reading So Much for Somerville Being Known as “Tree City USA”
ALL trees from Packard Avenue , except in front of Tufts, to Curtis Street, including young trees planted a few years ago! Talk about
A waste of beautiful trees! They are not a safety hazard!
Claire Continue reading Top Somerville Comments Online RE: Trees are not a safety hazard
Saturday, April 29 at 7:30 pm Sunday, April 30 at 2:00 pm
Northeast Youth Ballet’s, Spring’s Renewal, is a program that will showcase the talents of the pre-professional dancers of The Conservatory at NSB, and returning guest artist Aram Hengen, courtesy of The Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. Continue reading Northeast Youth Ballet presents SPRING’S RENEWAL, featuring the talent of the pre-professional dancers of The Conservatory at NSB
Police: stay away they don’t want you. Remember this: when the stuff hits the fan and is out of control, then they will call you. When you get there it’s a soho hole and out of control. When you try to stop the shti there will be dozens of cameras filming and the kids and anti police defenders will be trying to get you charged with a crime. Continue reading Top Somerville Comments Online RE: Police stay away they don’t want you
Jesse sadly was a proponent for defunding the police. That only changed when he was confronted by numerous unhappy residents who reside at the Mystic Development. More police are a good start, supporting them when they arrest and charge a bail for those criminals who continue to make our community unsafe. Putting them in jail until they realize how to be a responsible member of the community. Police in schools are much needed contrary to those who feel its a threat, the shootings, drugs and violence would be better controlled and caught before serious issues occur. Continue reading Top Somerville Comments Online RE: Police in schools are much needed contrary to those who feel its a threat
Mayor(?)
Mayor and her clown council are now referring to retirees and anyone who has city health insurance as “animals!” Look up the definition of “migration “
&@%#&!!!!!
Continue reading Top Somerville Comments Online RE: Look up the definition of “migration “
If the city officials would enforce the laws that criminals break and place them in jail where they belong we would not need trama assistance.
You tie the police departments hands and the criminals blossom and cause terror. It is said to think someone cannot drive through the city walk from their home and be safe. Continue reading TOP SOMERVILLE COMMENTS ONLINE RE:SHOTS FIRED AROUND 31 TEMPLE STREET
Click on link below to read April 4th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 4th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading April 4th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
BRIAN’S OBITUARY:
SEVOICH, Brian M. – Of Somerville March 30, 2023.
Beloved son of the late Helene Sevoich.
Loving father of Lynnsie, Brian Jr., Aleasha and Jonathan Sevoich. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Brian M. Sevoich
On Monday March 27th 2023, I was on duty assigned to patrol cruiser east 1. At approximately 12:11PM, I was dispatched to XXX Assembly Row, XXXX, for a report of a male masturbating inside the dressing room with the door opened. Officer D. Lambert in patrol cruiser east 4 was dispatched as back up. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Lewd Conduct) Arrest
RE:Somerville Community Safety Meeting
A great time at the community safety meeting. Unfortunately. The current administration does not understand that until the police department can form a connection with the youth. There will never be peace in the streets of Our once great city. Continue reading Top Somerville Comments Online
JOHN’S OBITUARY:
Gray, John Jr. – Of Roslindale, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2023 at Briarwood Rehab in Needham. He was 77. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John Gray Jr.
Photo:Intersection of Middlesex Avenue and Foley Street Somerville (Assembly Row)
By William Tauro
Take the right turn or not? What would you do? It’s a shame that none of our elected officials are as observant when it comes to public safety issues like this! Only in Somerville! Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Take the right turn or not?
By Bob Katzen
“Massachusetts remains deeply committed to working with our partners across state and local agencies to ensure our schools offer a safe and healthy learning environment for our children and educators. These grants will provide the resources that school officials need to enhance safety and mitigate potential threats.”
—Gov. Maura Healey announcing $570,000 to some Massachusetts school districts to bolster school safety and enhance violence prevention efforts. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would limit judicial appointments to seven years but would allow judges to be re-appointed by the governor for an unlimited number of years every seven years. The appointment would have to be approved by the Governor’s Council as required under current law. Continue reading LIMIT JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS TO 7 YEARS (H 34)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would grant the governor the power to appoint a lieutenant governor if the office is vacant because of the death, resignation, removal from office or incapacity of the lieutenant governor. The appointment would have to be confirmed by a majority vote of the House and Senate. Current law leaves the seat vacant until the next election. Continue reading APPOINT LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR. (H 38)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would amend a current section of the constitution that gives Quakers the option to change the oath a person must take upon taking office from the current: “I do solemnly swear, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the commonwealth of Massachusetts and will support the constitution thereof. Continue reading OATH OF OFFICE (H 33)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would amend the part of the state constitution that creates the title “His Excellency” for the governor and lieutenant governor. The proposal would add “Her Excellency” as a possibility. Continue reading HIS OR HER EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR (S 10)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would change the mandatory retirement age for judges from 70 years old to 75 years old.
Continue reading CHANGE MANDATORY RETIREMENT AGE FOR JUDGES (H 36)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would prohibit private property from being taken by the government for private commercial enterprise, economic development or any other private use without the consent of the owner. A similar measure was originally filed in 2005 as a response to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that allows communities to seize private homes and businesses solely for commercial purposes. The ruling also allows states to establish laws prohibiting the practice. Continue reading EMINENT DOMAIN (H 83)
By Bob Katzen
The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on several proposed amendments filed by representatives and senators to amend the state constitution.
Continue reading HEARING ON CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS
By Bob Katzen
Governor Maura Healey signed into law a $388.6 million fiscal 2023 supplemental budget. Provisions include $65 million for free school meals; $130 million to keep expanded nutrition assistance in place for a few more months; $2 million for the reimbursement of SNAP benefits for victims of benefit theft; $250,000 for a free abortion-related legal hotline; $45 million for emergency shelter assistance; $40 million to support affordable housing for immigrants and refugees; and $2 million for the Boston branch of the NAACP for costs of some programs to be included in its 114th National NAACP Conference taking place in Boston in 2023. Continue reading $388.6 MILLION FISCAL 2023 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 3548)
By Bob Katzen
Senate 40-0, 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. The $350 million package, a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds, also includes $150 million to pay for bus lane improvements, improvement of public transit, electric vehicles and other state transportation projects. The House has approved a different version and the Senate version now goes to the House for consideration. Continue reading $350 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES (S 2375)
Local Cultural Ambassadors leading nearly 20 community conversations citywide to discuss how to help arts and culture continue to thrive in Somerville Continue reading Somerville Hosting Community Conversations to Inform Cultural Capacity Planning
Virtual Meeting Will Highlight Spring/Summer Construction Schedule and Forthcoming Streetscape Improvements on Summer St.
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Ward 3 Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen invite you to join a virtual community meeting to learn about construction progress on the Spring Hill Sewer Separation project. Continue reading Join the Spring Hill Sewer Separation Virtual Community Meeting on April 10
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Parking Department remind all residents that regular street sweeping will resume this season on Monday, April 3, and continue through December 31, 2023. Department of Public Works crews conduct street sweeping not only to help keep our streets clean but to also reduce flooding by preventing clogged street drains. Continue reading Somerville Street Sweeping Resumes April 3, 2023 Somerville Street Sweeping Regulations in Effect April 1 through December 31
By Karen Glover
Evelyn Oritz, Property Mgr. of Cobble Hill, deserves a special community service award. (Most likely, Ms. Oritz won’t be receiving any alccholades from this adminstration…lol.)
Ms. Ortiz’s dedication to the protection and preservation of Cobble Hill and the quality of life of its residents is exceptionally commend-
able. Continue reading Cobble Hill Residents vs Somerville City Hall
Shortly before 8 p.m. Thursday, Trooper Beau Schlichting, assigned to State Police-Medford, was stationary observing traffic at the intersection of Memorial Road and Canal Lane in Somerville. At that time he observed a black Honda Civic with illegal window tint pass his location. An electronic inquiry of the vehicle’s license plate revealed it was being sought by the Somerville Police Department regarding an incident that occurred approximately three weeks earlier. Trooper Schlichting entered traffic, activated his blue lights, and stopped the vehicle on River Road. Continue reading MEDFORD-TROOPERS ARREST TWO MEN WITH FIREARM, NARCOTICS
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Somerville Community Corp owns this
building. It’s housing for low income residents. It’s been empty for two years. The Gate Keeper for Somerville Homeless Families has failed. There is no good reason why this building has been empty for two years. There needs to be an investigation why this happened? Somerville wake up! Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Somerville Community Corp Needs to be Investigated
Updated:
Due to circumstances beyond the family’s control we were just notified that the mass for Deanna J. Cremin, it’s location has been changed and will now be held at Saint Joseph’s located at 262 Washington Street Somerville 02143 at 4:pm on Saturday April 1st instead.
Continue reading Updated:Mass for Deanna J. Cremin Location Change
Launch Party for Best of Timothy Gager
Poems, Essays, Stories 2002-2022
The Center for the Arts at the Armory,
APRIL 1, 2023, 191 Highland Ave, Somerville, 4 PM
BEST
OF
TIMOTHY
GAGER
POEMS,
ESSAYS, Continue reading Launch Party for Best of Timothy Gager
Click on link below to read March 28th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online March 28th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading March 28th, 2023 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
DISTRICT 18 VFW AUXILIARY MEMBERSHIP INFO DAY!
Want to join the VFW Auxiliary? Not sure how? Have questions about what we do? Continue reading WANT TO HELP VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES?
FRANK’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
CENTRELLA, Frank “Chubby” – Of Somerville March 26, 2023. Beloved husband of the late Pauline (Sterry) Centrella. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Frank Centrella
On March 24, 2023, I was in full uniform working for the Somerville Police Department, assigned to marked unit West-6. At approximately 23:16 HRS, I Officer Ferrara, West-7 (Officer Scrugli), West 5 (Officer Desrochers), and East 4 (Officer Fusco) were dispatched to 101 Willow Ave for a hit and run.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (OUI Liquor, Negligent Operation, Leave Scene of Property Damage)Arrest
On March 26, 2023, at 12:49 a.m., I responded along with Officers Morel and T. Lambert to the intersection of Broadway and Main Street, public ways in the city of Somerville, for a motor vehicle crash involving two vehicles.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (OUI Liquor, Unlicensed Operation)Arrest
On March 20, 2023, I, Officer McAloney, was assigned to marked unit East-1. At approximately 5:03 AM, I was dispatched to 23 Cummings Street (La Quinta Hotel) for a report of a check-condition. Officer T. Lambert (East-4) and Officer Messaoudi, (Sector-East) responded as backup. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Possess Class B) (Boston Warrant)Arrest
By Bob Katzen
“Housing is a big issue. We know that people can’t thrive, they can’t raise their families, it’s just so much harder for children and families or individuals if they can’t afford to live in an area where they’re working.”
—Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland)
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
MASSACHUSETTS CAUCUS OF WOMEN LEGISLATORS’ (MCWL) TOP FIVE – The MCWL announced its top five legislative priorities for the 2023-2024 legislative session. Continue reading Also Up On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
Last week the Healey administration commemorated World Water Day and National Fix-A-Leak Week. Fix-A-Leak Week is led by the United Nations and is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of finding and repairing water leaks in homes and businesses. World Water Day’s theme is designed to accelerate change to solve the world’s water and sanitation crisis. Continue reading FIX-A-LEAK WEEK AND WATER DAY
By Bob Katzen
A bill before the Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee would allow non-citizens who are legally in the United States to be appointed manager on a license for the sale of alcoholic beverages. Under current law, these managers must be U.S. citizens and are also required to be on the premises at least 40 hours per week. Continue reading ALLOW NON-CITIZENS TO MANAGE THE SALE OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES (S 206)
By Bob Katzen
A measure before the Revenue Committee would allow up to a $3,000 annual tax credit for families that spend money on childcare services. The childcare servicer must be a provider licensed by the state in order to qualify for the tax credit and the child receiving childcare services must be a dependent of the taxpayer.
Continue reading CHILDCARE TAX CREDIT (S 1814)
By Bob Katzen
State Auditor Diana DiZoglio announced a few weeks ago that she has launched an audit of the Massachusetts Legislature—something she promised in her campaign last year. “As I committed, my office has begun an audit of the state Legislature,” said DiZoglio. “We hope this will increase transparency, accountability and equity in an area of state government that has been completely ignored. Historically, the Legislature has been a closed-door operation, where committee votes have been hidden from the general public and legislation has been voted on in the dark of night.”
Continue reading DIZOGLIO AND THE AUDIT OF THE LEGISLATURE
By Bob Katzen
The House 153-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. The $350 million package, a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds, also includes $150 million to pay for bus lane improvements, improvement of public transit, electric vehicles and other state transportation projects. Continue reading $350 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 3547)
By Bob Katzen
The House 153-0, Senate 39-0, approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a $388.6 million fiscal 2023 supplemental budget. The House and Senate approved different versions a few weeks ago, but last week they agreed on this new version.
Continue reading $388.6 MILLION FISCAL 2023 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 3548)
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Department of Public Works (DPW) wish to remind residents that beginning Saturday, April 1, Somerville residents can once again drop off household hazardous waste at the DPW yard on designated days. Drop offs are accepted on the first Saturday of each month, April through November, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the DPW yard (1 Franey Rd.). Continue reading Somerville Hazardous Waste Collection Resumes Saturday, April 1, 2023
Dear Honorable Members of City Council:
For the past 18 months, I have advocated for the residents of Cobble Hill Apartments and tried my best to shed light on the many ways the city’s plans for 90 Washington Street threaten the quality of life my residents have enjoyed for 40 years.
Continue reading Cobble Hill to Somerville City Council
SOMERVILLE—Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 4 Councilor Jesse Clingan, Chief of Police Charlie Femino, and Director of the Department of Racial and Social Justice Denise Molina Capers invite community members to a Community Safety Meeting on Tuesday, March 28, at 5:30 p.m. in the Healey School Cafeteria at 5 Meacham St.
Continue reading Community Safety Meeting Tuesday, March 28, 5:30 p.m.
CARLETON’S OBITUARY
Carleton M. Vining, Sr. of Somerville, passed away suddenly surrounded by his loving family on March 23, 2023. He was 77 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Carleton M. Vining, Sr.
Somerville Guns & Hoses charity event benefiting SYHA and Somerville BlueLiners.
SAT, APR 22 AT 5 PM Continue reading Somerville Guns & Hoses SAT, APR 22 AT 5 PM
By William Tauro
Boston PD chase from Charlestown just ended early Sunday evening in Medford on Auburn and West Street. The suspect’s vehicle struck two Boston Police officers. Medford Fire and EMS enroute.
Continue reading Boston PD Chase Ends in Medford
Giannina C. “Jenny” (Fiorenzio) Ciano, Of Somerville, passed away on March 20th at 89 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Giannina C. “Jenny” (Fiorenzio) Ciano
Update: Due to circumstances beyond the family’s control we were just notified that the mass location has been changed and will now be held at Saint Joseph’s located at 262 Washington Street Somerville 02143 at 4:pm on Saturday April 1st instead.
By William Tauro
A mass for Deanna J. Cremin will be held Saturday April 1st at 4:00pm at St Anne’s Parish that’s located on Medford Street in Somerville.
Cremin was a student of Somerville High School. She did volunteer work at Somerville Cable Access Television, worked with third graders at the Child Development Program at her school, and worked at Star Market. Continue reading Somerville Remembering Deanna Cremin
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
If the city officials would enforce the laws that criminals break and place them in jail where they belong we would not need trama assistance.
You tie the police departments hands and the criminals blossom and cause terror. It is sad to think someone cannot drive through the city walk from their home and be safe. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Somerville Community Update: Shots Fired Around 31 Temple Street
On Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at approximately 9:02 p.m., Somerville Police responded to the area of 31 Temple Street for reports of shots fired.
Continue reading Somerville Community Update: Shots Fired Around 31 Temple Street
On 3/21/23 at approximately 9:02 PM, Somerville Police responded to the area of 31 Temple St for report of shots fired. Continue reading Somerville Multiple Shots Fired
Click on link below to read March 21st, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online March 21st, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1) Continue reading March 21st, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
LILLIAN’S OBITUARY:
Damico, Lillian D. (Venuti)– Of Somerville, passed away surrounded by her loving family on March 17, 2023. She was 86 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lillian D. Damico
BERNICE’S OBITUARY:
O’Loughlin, Bernice M. (O’Keefe) Of Reading, formerly of Somerville, March 18, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bernice M. O’Loughlin
On March 20, 2023, I, Officer McAloney, was assigned to marked unit East-1. At approximately 5:03 AM, I was dispatched to 23 Cummings Street (La Quinta Hotel) for a report of a check-condition. Officer T. Lambert (East-4) and Officer Messaoudi, (Sector-East) responded as backup. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Poss. class B) (Boston Warrant)Arrest
On Thursday, March 16th, 2023 at 10:48 PM, Somerville Police Control received a call regarding a Motor Vehicle accident with injuries in front of Los Paisanos Restaurant, located at 62 Broadway, a public way located in Somerville as defined by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (OUI Liquor)Arrest
Proud Supporter of VerniCARES! I donate a portion of EVERY Closing!
Continue reading Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Verani Realty
Presents Two Hues of Americana This Spring–The Ryan Montbleau Band on April 14th
and David Wax Museum on May 4th Continue reading The Center for Arts at the Armory Spotlight Series
Workshop to cover budget basics and budget process, followed by Q&A, and an opportunity for residents to share budget priorities
Continue reading Learn About Somerville’s Annual Budget Process at a Virtual Workshop, March 29
By William Tauro
Say goodbye to businesses and parking on both sides of Highland Avenue! Broadway is next! Absolutely no consideration was given for the businesses that have been here for years, the elderly who depend on automobiles daily and the people who depend on automobiles to get to and from work and to do their daily activities in and around the city and beyond! The road should be shared by all! Let’s bring common sense back to Somerville before it’s totally gone! Continue reading Somerville Budget Plan Could Start Highland Ave. Protected Bike Lane Project in 2024
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
BILLY ,
THIS IS A PICTURE OF THE SIDEWALK AT THE TOP OF PEARSON RD AND BROADWAY SOMERVILLE…
THIS HAD BEEN LIKE THIS FOR YRS & GETTING WORSE .. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: TOP OF PEARSON RD AND BROADWAY SOMERVILLE… THIS HAD BEEN LIKE THIS FOR YRS & GETTING WORSE
By William Tauro
Firefighters battled a four alarm house fire on Saturday night in Medford at about 10:00pm located at 44 George Street. Continue reading 4 Alarm Saturday Night Fire Medford
By William Tauro
Firefighters battled a three alarm fire this Saturday afternoon the 18th of March located at 34 Walker Street in Somerville at about 3:30 PM. Continue reading 34 Walker Street Somerville 3 Alarm Fire
By Bob Katzen
“As we continue to experience the aftermath and trauma of senseless gun violence in our communities, we must utilize all available resources to stop these tragedies. My colleagues and I urge these credit companies not to cave to political pressure and to move forward with what will be an important resource in detecting, identifying and stopping potential threats to public safety.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill, known by many names, would give a terminally ill, mentally capable adult with a prognosis of six months or less to live the option to request, obtain and ingest medication—to die in their sleep if their suffering becomes unbearable. It is currently before the Judiciary Committee.
Continue reading RIGHT TO DIE/ASSISTED SUICIDE/END OF LIFE OPTIONS (S 1331)
By Bob Katzen
Legislation before the Judiciary Committee would ban doxing which is the knowing release of private personal identifying information of a person, without their consent, with the intent to intimidate, harass or cause stalking, physical harm or serious property damage. Currently there is no state law that makes doxing a crime.
Continue reading BAN DOXING (S 1116)
By Bob Katzen
A proposal before the Municipalities and Regional Government Committee would give cities and towns the right to give cemeteries the authority to allow the burial of people and their pets in the same location. Continue reading BURY PETS WITH OWNERS (S 1310)
By Bob Katzen
A bill before the Environment and Natural Resources Committee would make it illegal to sell a new manufactured fur product in Massachusetts and impose a fine between $500 and $5,000 per fur product for anyone convicted of the sale.
Continue reading BAN SALE OF FUR PRODUCTS (S 590)
By Bob Katzen
Senators who live more than 50 miles from the Statehouse are eligible for a special federal tax break. A 1981 federal law allows them to write off a daily expense allowance when filing their federal income tax return. The complicated system determines a daily amount, ostensibly for meals, lodging and other expenses incurred in the course of their jobs, which can be deducted for every “legislative day.” Continue reading SOME SENATORS WHO LIVE 50 MILES FROM THE STATEHOUSE ARE ELIGIBLE TO PAY A REDUCED OR NO FEDERAL INCOME TAX ON THEIR LEGISLATIVE SALARY
By Bob Katzen
All 40 senators receive an additional stipend, above the $73,655 base salary, for their positions in the Democratic and Republican leadership, as committee chairs, vice chairs and the ranking Republican on some committees. The stipend is increased or decreased every two years based on data from the BEA that measures the quarterly change in salaries and wages.
Continue reading EXTRA PAY FOR ALL 40 SENATORS
By Bob Katzen
The new base salary for the 2023-2024 session for senators is $73,655—up $3,119 (4.4 percent) from the $70,536 base salary in the 2021-2022 session.
DETAILS: The Medford Police responded to the Capen Street area at approximately 3:41am on Friday morning. Due to the nature of the incident, additional details can not be released at this time. This was an isolated incident and there is no threat to the public. Continue reading Medford Stabbing
Northeast School of Ballet (NSB) will offer dance programs for all ages this summer during July. NSB, under the artistic direction of Denise Cecere, is a ballet school that is recognized for training dancers over the past 52 years in the Greater Boston area. The 2023 summer programs will be held at NSB’s studios conveniently located in historic downtown Reading, MA. at 32 Lowell Street, RT 129. Continue reading Discover the joy of dance this summer at NSB!
By William Tauro
A working fire was reported at 6:45 PM on Wednesday March 15th at Bryant Manor located at 75 Myrtle Street in Somerville with a Fire on the fourth floor. Somerville Fire Department was dispatched.
Continue reading Bryant Manor 75 Myrtle Street Somerville Working Fire
This past week I called as a request for help from a Somerville resident, CASPAR who runs this Women’s Residential Service called NEW DAY that’s located at 242 Highland Ave, Somerville, MA 02138.
I spoke to the Elizabeth LaCasse who is listed as the Program Director. Continue reading Letter from the Editor: CASPAR’s Women’s Residential Services NEW DAY telling moms with babies to leave with only three days notice
Click on link below to read March 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online March 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading March 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
DAVID’S OBITUARY:
Newton, David R.- Of Medford, passed away on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at home surrounded by his family. He was 64. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering David B. Newton
ANNA’S OBITUARY:
Mrs. Anna (Vaudo) Valente, of Somerville, passed away on March 12, 2023, she was 87. The beloved wife of 62 years to Salvatore Valente.
Complete notice to follow. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Anna Valente
JAMES’ OBITUARY:
Moran, James David- Of Somerville, passed away at home on Friday, March 10, 2023. He was 52.
Born in Winchester and raised in Somerville. He was the son of Helen L. (Murphy) and the late Francis X. Moran. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James D. Moran
By Bob Katzen
“Everyone I talk to here in the Statehouse is really committed to continuing to address the trauma of gun violence to bring the numbers of deaths and injuries from gun violence down to zero. So I’m very optimistic.”
— Ruth Zakarin, executive director of the MA Coalition to Prevent Gun Violence. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require all restaurants to have at least 5 percent of their seating options be armchairs. Or have armchairs on-site and available upon request. Continue reading REQUIRE ARMCHAIRS IN RESTAURANTS (SD 2037)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would set up a program for the Education Department to provide grants to schools to encourage and incentivize the schools to purchase zero-emission school buses. The program would pay for the difference between the cost of a zero-emissions vehicle and a diesel-powered one. Continue reading GRANTS TO SCHOOLS FOR ZERO-EMISSION SCHOOL BUSES (SD 2269)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require that American Sign Language (ASL) is 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 (SD 2057)
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