Obituary

Christine Lyons, age 51, beloved mother of Taylor and Hailey Pefine, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Sunday, May 11. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Christine Lyons →

By William Tauro

Last night Monday May 12th at the Winter Hill School located 115 Sycamore Street at Medford Street in Somerville there were two small fires possibly three, (possibly set) at around 9:14pm and shortly extinguished. Continue reading Suspicious Small Fires Extinguished At Somerville Winter Hill Community School →

Obituary

Daniel G. Hovanesian of Somerville, passed away on May 9, 2025 at the age of 78. Beloved husband of 48 years to Carol (Richardson) Hovanesian. Devoted father of Greg Hovanesian of Somerville and Alexis Hovanesian and her partner Andrew Vandamme of Mt. Pleasant, SC. Cherished grandfather of Adelaide. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel G. Hovanesian →

City’s Office of Sustainability Outlines Solutions to Help Fight Climate Change & Protect Public Health

SOMERVILLE— Massachusetts is urging property owners to switch from gas to electric to help meet the state’s climate goals. Continue reading Somerville Report Finds High Cost of Electrification Is Slowing Transition From Gas →

Our friends from the Somerville Chamber of Commerce are thrilled to announce the return of the Taste of Somerville festival on Wednesday, June 11th from 5-8pm at Boynton Yards to benefit your favorite nonprofit – Somerville Homeless Coalition!
Continue reading Reminder: Taste of Somerville 2025 →

By William Tauro

When is enough truly enough? For many Americans, January 20th couldn’t have come soon enough—a date that represents, for some, a return to common sense leadership and traditional values in the White House.

Vice President Kamala Harris came under fire after a 2017 video resurfaced in which she urged Americans to “stay woke.” According to The Republic News Source, the clip has sparked widespread criticism across social media. Conservative author James Lindsay and others have labeled her a “Communist functionary,” fueling public debate about her stances on immigration, drug policy, and broader social issues in her current role as Vice President. Continue reading Social Engineering and the Paralysis of Woke Politics in Our Society →

WOBURN – Heinsky Anacreon will be arraigned Monday May 12th in Middlesex Superior Court at 10:00 a.m. for the cold case murder of Charline Rosemond in 2009. Continue reading Superior Court Arraignment for Heinsky Anacreon →

Obituary

Bobby Howard (Beau Paris), 73, of Andover, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 2, 2025, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bobby Howard →

Residents gather for Ward 1 Slice of City event
The ‘Slice of the City’ spring meet-up series is an opportunity to connect and engage with City leaders and staff as well as neighbors, all while enjoying Somerville’s parks. The series continues next week in Wards 3 and 6. Continue reading Somerville: Join ‘Slice of the City’ Meet-Up Events Next Week: Ward 3 (5/12) & Ward 6 (5/13) →

Obituary

Walter (Wally) Fitzgerald, of Methuen, MA, beloved husband, father, Grampy, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025, surrounded by the family he cherished. Wally was the devoted husband of Dianne (Donahue) Fitzgerald for 60 wonderful years, with whom he shared a lifetime of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Walter (Wally) Fitzgerald →

Obituary:

Cynthia “Cyndi” Karasinski, a lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away on May 5, 2025, she was 71. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Cynthia “Cyndi” Karasinski →

Obituary

Bernadette “Bernie” Molloy passed away surrounded by the love of her nieces on May 4, 2025, she was 80. Born in County Monaghan, Ireland, she was the daughter of the late Mary J. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bernadette “Bernie” Molloy →

Edward Leo Kelley

April 12, 1933-May 1, 2025

A few years ago, while walking home from Market Basket with one of his granddaughters, Ed Kelley asked if they could walk a little slower.

“I’m slowing down, hon,” he said. “I’m getting old! But it’s okay. I’ve had a good life. I love my wife. I have four good kids, eight good grandkids, all these great-grandkids. I’ve had a very good life.” Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Edward Leo Kelley →

Obituary

Altagracia Beatriz Espinal Benzan, of Cambridge, passed away at home surrounded by the love of her family on April 30, 2025. She was 89. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Altagracia Beatriz Espinal Benzan →

Obituary

Robert F. “Bob” Driscoll, of Somerville and formerly of Nantucket, passed away surrounded by his family on April 28, 2025, he was 84. Born and raised on Nantucket, he was the son of Constance (Miller) and John J. Driscoll. A talented athlete, Bob was captain of the Nantucket High Football Team. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert F. “Bob” Driscoll →

singer-songwriter KAREN GRENIER COFFEE HOUSES – HOUSE CONCERTS – FESTIVALS – WEDDINGS – RECEPTIONS – COCKTAIL PARTIES Continue reading Singer-Songwriter KAREN GRENIER →

By Bob Katzen

“The clean energy economy is growing fast and we need to make sure people across Massachusetts can take part in that growth. Today’s summit shows how powerful local collaboration can be. Together, we’re building training pathways that are not only relevant and responsive but also rooted in the needs and aspirations of our communities.”
—Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll on the Healey-Driscoll Administration awarding more than $7.3 million in grants to enhance workforce development in climatetech. Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Seal, Flag and Motto Advisory Commission, established by the Legislature in 2024, launched an open call to artists, historians, educators, students and members of the public to participate in the effort to redesign the state’s flag, seal and motto. Continue reading OPEN CALL TO DESIGN THE STATE FLAG, SEAL AND MOTTO →

By Bob Katzen

Another proposal heard by the Election Laws Committee would allow 16- and 17-year-olds who are U.S citizens to vote in city and town elections. It also allows them to vote in any presidential primary if the political party for which a presidential primary is held consents to the participation of 16- and 17-year-olds.
Continue reading ALLOW 16-AND 17-YEAR OLDS TO VOTE IN LOCAL ELECTIONS (H 813) →

By Bob Katzen

Another bill heard by the Environment and Natural Resources Committee would ban the intentional release in the air of any type of balloon that is filled with helium or any other type of gas that is lighter than air. First-time offenders would be fined $100 and an additional $100 per ten balloons released. Subsequent violations would be fined $500 and an additional $100 per ten balloons released. Continue reading BAN USE OF HELIUM BALLOONS (H 996) →

By Bob Katzen

The Environment and Natural Resources Committee held a hearing on legislation that would ban, beginning in January 2027, hotels, motels and boarding houses from providing small plastic-packaged toiletries to guests. Toiletries are defined as a product provided by a hotel “intended to be applied to or used on the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, conditioning or moisturizing including, but not limited to, shampoo, conditioner, lotion and liquid soap.”
Continue reading BAN HOTELS FROM PROIVIDING PLASTIC-PACKAGED TOILETRIES TO GUESTS (S 609) →

By Bob Katzen

The Elections Laws Committee held a hearing on a measure that would allow legal non-citizens over the age of 18 to vote in local municipal elections, participate and vote in town meetings and to run for municipal office. Continue reading ALLOW LEGAL NON-CITIZENS TO VOTE IN CITY AND TOWNS ELECTIONS (H 855) →

By Bob Katzen

Another proposal heard by the Higher Education Committee would direct the Department of Higher Education to establish regulatory standards allowing high school students who have achieved a score of 3 or higher on their Advanced Placement (AP) exams to receive college credit at Massachusetts’ state universities. Continue reading GIVE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS COLLEGE CREDITS FOR HIGH SCORES ON ADVANCED PLACEMENT PLANS →

By Bob Katzen

The Higher Education Committee held a hearing on a bill, dubbed the Bean New Deal, designed to help more people understand the climate, health and environmental benefits of diets that involve plant-based protein sources, whether exclusively or just occasionally. Continue reading THE BEAN NEW DEAL (S 922) →

By Bob Katzen

The Education Committee held a hearing on legislation that would designate and treat high school cheerleading as a legitimate sport and have it governed by the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) which currently governs 19 other high school sports. Continue reading RECOGNIZE HIGH SCHOOL CHEERLEADING AS A SPORT (H 639) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 40-0, approved a $1.3 billion supplemental budget that uses funds generated from the recent surtax imposed on taxpayers’ earnings of more than $1 million annually, to fund $617 million for education-related projects and $670 million for transportation-related ones. The House has already approved its own version of the budget and a House-Senate conference committee will hammer out a compromise version that will be sent to Gov. Maura Healey. Continue reading $1.3 BILLION FOR TRANSPORTATION AND EDUCATION (S 2512) →

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

Billy, just like the video that you did some time ago at Mama Lisa’s Pizza on Broadway, the same happened to the Alibrandi’s Barber Shop on Holland Street two years ago. Continue reading SOMERVILLE/MEDFORD NEWS WEEKLY SPEAKUP LINE:LONGTIME SOMERVILLE BUSINESSES VICTIMS OF THIS CURRENT ADMINISTRATION →

Thank you for hanging in there with us while we were dealing with the censoring/hacking of my original Facebook page! Continue reading “On Air with Billy Tauro” WELCOMES You To His New Facebook Page →

Congratulations, Detective Sergeant Marc Gigante!

Please join us in congratulating Sergeant Marc Gigante as he completes his remarkable 28-year career with the Medford Police Department today.
Continue reading Medford Police Detective Detective Sergeant Marc Gigante Retiring After 28 Year Career →

Cambridge, MA, May 8, 2025 — The City of Cambridge Department of Veterans Services (DVS) invites the public to attend three Memorial Day Weekend Observance Events: Grave Decoration Day on May 24; Observance for maritime military members lost due to maritime battles on May 24; and the Memorial Day Observance event on May 26. Continue reading City of Cambridge Department of Veterans Services Memorial Day Weekend & MA250 Observance Events →

Obituary

Cynthia “Cyndi” Karasinski, a lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away on May 5, 2025, she was 71. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Cynthia “Cyndi” Karasinski →

SOMERVILLE– The City of Somerville’s annual Water System Flushing Program will begin on Thursday,
May 15, and conclude in late October. This annual program flushes pipes at high velocities to clean water mains and maintain the highest possible water quality. Continue reading Somerville Water and Sewer Department to Begin Its Annual Water System Flushing Program on May 15 →

Free, Family-Friendly Event Will Be Held outside City Hall on Saturday, May 17

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Arts Council, in collaboration with the Haitian Service Providers Coalition Continue reading Celebrate Culture, Community, and Resilience at the Haitian Flag Festival in Somerville →

Residential Breaking and Entering
25023443: On 4/29/25 at approximately 11:42 AM, Somerville Police responded to a residence on Nevada Ave for a past breaking and entering. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated someone broke into his home and stole credit cards from his wallet. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log →

Somerville

What is happening?
The purpose of this meeting is to provide the public with the opportunity to become
fully acquainted with the proposed project. All views and comments made at the
meeting will be reviewed and considered to the maximum extent possible. Continue reading Mystic River Bicycle Pedestrian Bridge Public Meeting →

SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is announcing the winning projects from Somerville’s second Participatory Budgeting cycle. More than 4,000 residents voted to determine how to invest $1 million in community-generated ideas. Continue reading Somerville Announcing Winning Projects for Second Cycle of Participatory Budgeting →

SOMERVILLE— Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is honored to announce that the City of Somerville has been officially Continue reading Somerville Earns Top Honors as Certified Climate Leader Community →

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

Hey Billy, would you be able to raise awareness about this inappropriate event happening at Revere High school inviting students to dress up as drag queens? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Parents Outraged Over School Inviting Students To Dress Up As Drag Queens →

May 6th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online May 6th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading May 6th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By William Tauro

A Vision for a Better Somerville: A City We’re Proud to Call Home

I’m stepping forward today because I believe Somerville deserves leadership that listens, acts, and puts people first. As I pull nomination papers, I do so with a clear and determined mission: to make Somerville more affordable, more welcoming, and more responsive to the needs of all who call it home. Continue reading William Tauro Pulls Papers for Mayor of Somerville for 2025 Election →

Committee to be created to form plan for Ranked Choice Voting

Length of Mayoral term to be decided by voters via ballot question

SOMERVILLE – City charters serve as a city’s local constitution, and after an intensive community process and collaborative work by the Ballantyne administration and the City Council, Somerville’s charter is getting a significant update. The new charter Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne and Somerville City Council Approve Changes to Somerville Charter, Now Set to Advance to State Legislature →

“Our annual Advocacy Day is an opportunity to highlight the incredible impact assisted living has on the lives of older adults across Massachusetts. By sharing personal stories and advocating for policies like the Frail Elder Waiver expansion, we can ensure that more individuals have access to the care, community and independence that assisted living provides.”
—Mass Assisted Living Association (ALA) CEO Brian Doherty hosting the group’s annual Advocacy Day on Beacon Hill. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Would ban toxic chemicals, known as PFAs, in children’s products. The bill would require the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to establish a list of known toxic chemicals and require manufacturers and distributors to pay fees and submit biannual reports disclosing if these chemicals are in products they make or distribute for children under 12. Continue reading TOXIC CHEMICALS IN CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS (H 384) →

By Bob Katzen

Would prohibit anyone from selling a gas stove that is produced or manufactured after January 1, 2026, without a warning label affixed to the stove. The warning label would read as follows:
Continue reading GAS STOVE WARNING (H464) →

By Bob Katzen

Would standardize what forms of identification can be used by applicants when applying for occupational licenses from the Division of Occupational Licensure and the Department of Public Health. The measure would allow individuals to submit a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) or another form of verified identification in place of a social security number.
Continue reading WAIVE SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER REQUIREMENT (H 451) →

By Bob Katzen

Would automatically renew professional licensures as opposed to requiring the license holder to submit an online application or wait on a renewal to be approved by a licensure board.
Continue reading AUTOMATIC RENEWAL OF PROFESIONAL LICENSES (S 275) →

By Bob Katzen

Another measure heard by the Financial Services Committee would require health insurance plans that are regulated by the state to include the following statement on plan members’ identification cards: “This health plan is fully-insured, subject to all Massachusetts insurance laws.”
Continue reading HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN TRANSPARENCY (S 685) →

By Bob Katzen

The Financial Services Committee held a hearing on a bill that would mandate a ten-business day deadline for the completion of motorized wheelchair repairs, with a couple of exceptions.
Continue reading WHEELCHAIR REPAIRS (H 1278) →

By Bob Katzen

House 25-131, rejected an amendment that would require voters to present a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, when voting. It also directs the Secretary of State’s office to develop a program to make a Massachusetts photo identification card available free of charge for voting purposes.
Continue reading REQUIRE ID TO VOTE (H 4000) →

By Bob Katzen

House 28-128, rejected an amendment that would prohibit any city or town’s eligibility for public safety related grant funding from being contingent upon that municipality’s compliance with the MBTA Communities Act.
Continue reading PUBLIC SAFETY GRANT FUNDING (H 4000) →

By Bob Katzen

House 27-129, rejected an amendment that would place further restrictions on the state’s right to shelter law by limiting participation in the commonwealth’s emergency housing assistance program to U.S. citizens who have resided in Massachusetts for at least six months.
Continue reading RIGHT TO SHELTER (H 4000) →

By Bob Katzen

House 25-131, rejected an amendment that would provide a mechanism for law enforcement and the courts to detain individuals for United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) if the person poses a direct threat to public safety. It would specifically allow for the detainment of individuals for possible immigration violations for up to 12 hours upon receipt of a written request and warrant from ICE.
Continue reading ALLOW DETAINMENT BY IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT (H 4000) →

By Bob Katzen

House 25-132, rejected an amendment that would authorize cities and towns to conduct a municipal tax amnesty program over a two-month period, as determined by the local legislative body, any time prior to June 30, 2027. It specifically authorizes communities to waive any or all penalties, fees, charges and accrued interest if the original overdue tax assessment is paid in full.
Continue reading MUNICIPAL TAX AMNESTY (H 4000) →

By Bob Katzen

House 151-6, approved and sent to the Senate a $61.47 billion fiscal 2026 state budget after three days of debate. The House version now goes to the Senate which will approve its own version. A House-Senate conference committee will eventually craft a compromise plan that will be presented to the House and Senate for consideration and then sent to Gov. Maura Healey.
Continue reading HOUSE APPROVES $61.47 BILLION FISCAL 2026 STATE BUDGET (H 4000) →

By Bob Katzen

Most of the decisions on which representatives’ amendments are included or not included in the budget are made behind closed doors. Of the more than 1,650 budget amendments proposed last week, most of them were bundled into consolidated “mega” amendments. This year there were seven mega amendments and all were easily approved on roll call votes. Continue reading A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE “MAKING OF THE BUDGET” →

Obituary
CHRISTOPHER PADRAIC EAGAN, Sr. – was born on October 6, 1964 in Chelmsford, MA to the late Robert and Margaret (Clements) Eagan.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering CHRISTOPHER PADRAIC EAGAN, Sr. →

Obituary
Sim, Frederick J. – A lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away on April 30, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Frederick J. Sim →

New initiative by Ballantyne Administration aims to build community through professionally facilitated conversation sessions

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is today announcing the launch of Neighbors Talking to Neighbors (N2N), a new City initiative aimed at strengthening community connections via open, respectful conversation, as ongoing cultural turmoil leads to increased feelings of isolation, division, and fear. Continue reading Somerville Launching “Neighbors Talking to Neighbors” Dialogue Series →

Nearly 500 performances and dozens of music styles

New event safety services include real-time alerts, a mobile emergency operations center, and more
Continue reading Somerville PorchFest Returns Saturday May 10 →

LOWELL – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, Lowell Police Superintendent Greg Hudon and Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey Noble have confirmed that Christopher Campbell, 30 of Billerica, has been charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury, two counts of leaving the scene of personal injury, carjacking, larceny of a motor vehicle, negligent operation and a marked lanes violation following multiple incidents that occurred last night in Lowell. Continue reading Man Charged after Striking Pedestrian and Fleeing Crash in Lowell →

Please friend my new “William Tauro” Facebook page because my original page got hacked!

To all my Facebook friends my Facebook site was hacked on Saturday. While we sort through the paperwork to correct my Facebook site situation back to normal, please feel free to friend me on my new site here at William Tauro or you could follow us on my Instagram page and we are also on YouTube. Thank you for your patience and  continuous support! Continue reading William Tauro Facebook Site Hacked Investigation Ongoing →

April 29th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 29th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Continue reading April 29th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Massachusetts has some of the most beautiful state parks in the country, and it takes all of us to preserve them for generations to come. In honor of Earth Day, it’s nice to get outside and celebrate our natural spaces.”
—Gov. Maura Healey who along with First Lady Joanna Lydgate, visited Torbert MacDonald State Park in Medford to celebrate Earth Day.
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Would create a process for handling the care of incapacitated patients who don’t have a health care proxy. The measure would allow attending physicians to appoint surrogate decision makers and identifies several candidates for that role, including the incapacitated patient’s spouse, unless legally separated, parent, adult child or adult sibling.
Continue reading HEALTH CARE SURROGATE (S 1047) →

By Bob Katzen

Would establish regulations over what happens to a decedent’s digital assets including social media, e-mail and online accounts.

Continue reading DIGITAL ASSETS OF THE DECEASED (S 1048) →

By Bob Katzen

Would prevent a parent’s disability to be considered a negative factor in determining custody or parenting time with a child unless there is specific evidence that there is a link with the parent’s disability and a child’s alleged harm. It must also show that this harm cannot be prevented or alleviated by accommodation.
Continue reading DISABLED ADULTS AND CHILD CUSTODY (S 1164) →

By Bob Katzen

Would give the courts the authority to terminate alimony payments and deny future alimony petitions if the spouse receiving the payments has been convicted of spousal abuse.
Continue reading PROTECT SURVIVORS OF SPOUSAL ABUSE FROM ALIMONY PAYMENTS (S 1236) →

By Bob Katzen

Here is the total annual salary for local representatives including the three categories of base pay, stipends and general expense pay allowance.
Continue reading TOTAL SALARY FOR REPRESENTATIVES →

By Bob Katzen

Legislators are no longer entitled to collect “per diems” to reimburse them for mileage, meals and lodging expenses for travel from their home to the Statehouse. These reimbursements were discontinued in 2017. Continue reading REPRESENTATIVES ARE NO LONGER ELIGIBLE FOR PER DIEMS →

By Bob Katzen

For many years until recently, representatives who live more than 50 miles from the Statehouse were eligible for a special federal tax break. A 1981 federal law allowed them to write off a daily expense allowance when filing their federal income tax return. The complicated system determined 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 REPRESENTATIVES WHO LIVE 50 MILES FROM THE STATEHOUSE ARE NO LONGER ELIGIBLE TO PAY A REDUCED OR NO FEDERAL INCOME TAX ON THEIR LEGISLATIVE SALARY →

By Bob Katzen

HEALTH INSURANCE – Representatives are eligible to choose from 11 health insurance plans offered by the state’s Group Insurance Commission, which manages the plans for 259,929 individuals—current and retired state workers, as well as certain municipal workers and their dependents.
Continue reading Insurance for Representatives →

By Bob Katzen

Legislators are entitled to a parking space inside the Statehouse garage or at the nearby McCormack State Office Building. Continue reading PARKING SPACES →

By Bob Katzen

One hundred and eight of the state’s 160 representatives receive an additional stipend, ranging from $7,776.07 to $119,631.81, above the $82,044.31 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 108 REPRESENTATIVES →

By Bob Katzen

The base salary for the state’s 160 state representatives rose from $73,655 for the 2023-2024 session to $82,044 for the 2025-2026 session. That’s an 11.39 percent hike which means an additional $8,389 per representative. The estimated price tag for the hikes is $1,342,240.
Continue reading NEW HIGHER $82,044 BASE SALARY FOR REPRESENTATIVES →

Virtual meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 14, will give residents opportunity
to learn what to expect during upcoming construction, review the new street design, and ask City staff questions. Continue reading Somerville Community Invited to Tufts Street Reconstruction Kick-off Meeting →

The Somerville Police Department completed a RAD Women’s Self Defense class on April 14, 2025 at the police department. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Completes RAD Women’s Self Defense Class →

Billy Goodspeed, of Somerville, passed away in the early hours of Monday, April 28, 2025. Born October 22, 1980, Billy was a lifelong sports fan, especially of wrestling. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Billy Goodspeed →

Obituary
Mario Medeiros, of Somerville, passed away surrounded by his loving family on April 25th, 2025. He was 45 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mario Medeiros →

Obituary
Jane M. (Ward) Doherty, of Medford, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on Easter Sunday, she was 72.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Jane M. (Ward) Doherty →

The Somerville Police Department collected $1,400.00 along with seven dresses from members of the Police Department. Continue reading Congratulations to the Somerville Police Department and thank you for a job well done! →

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

Talk about singling out certain groups of individuals. Continue reading Somerville Singling Out Certain Groups →

Arrest
25020761: On 4/16/25 at approximately 6:28 PM, Somerville Police responded to YMCA for a weapons call. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated he got into a physical altercation with another male. After the altercation, the male suspect pointed a firearm at the victim’s door. Officers then conducted a search of the suspects room and located a semi-auto handgun with a defaced serial number and .45 caliber ammo. The suspect was then placed under arrest.

Shots Fired Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log →

It’s now on YouTube as well so enjoy! As always the truth with no filter! Follow Us On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/william.tauro.54
…

Episode #16 “On Air with Billy Tauro” 04/28/2025 discussing multiple anonymous letters, inboxes and weird stuff I’m getting in the mail. Today celebrating Trump‘s first 100 days in office with 100 overnight arrests of your illegal immigrants at a nightclub which involved drugs, prostitution and green-cards!

Continue reading “On Air with Billy Tauro “ →

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

Billy!!!!! Hope you are well sir!

Just another lifelong very concerned citizen and parent absolutely fed up and livid about the continued gun violence in this city and in particular East Somerville. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Citizens Concerned Over Growing Gun Violence In Somerville →

Marguerite D. Magliozzi WebsiteMarguerite “Doris” Magliozzi (Coelho) of Cambridge, passed away on April 24, 2025, at the age of 95. Continue reading Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering Marguerite “Doris” Magliozzi →

Mrs. Sandra L. Saltman
Category: Obituaries Published: April 22, 2025
Sandra L. Saltman WebsiteSandra L. “Cookie” Saltman (Dobbins) passed away on April 21, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at the age of 78.
Devoted mother of Cynthia “Cyndi” Saltman and her fiancé John Jepson, and the late Leonard “Leo” Saltman Jr. Continue reading Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering Sandra L. Saltman →

It’s now on YouTube as well so enjoy! As always the truth with no filter! Follow Us On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/william.tauro.54
…

Episode #14 On Air with Billy Tauro April 25th,2025 discussing a fucked up world! https://youtu.be/UyfrCvuey7Y

Continue reading “On Air with Billy Tauro“ →

By William Tauro

On Wednesday morning about 9:15 AM a woman walked into the Porter Square Star Market with two dogs and a blanket. She proceeded to enter the ladies restroom and was noticed by store employees and that she hadn’t come out of the for a while with the two dogs. Continue reading Woman Sets Up Blankets In Makeshift Maternity Ward in Star Market Ladies Room for Her Dog to Give Birth →

It’s now on YouTube as well so enjoy! As always the truth with no filter! Follow Us On Facebook https://www.facebook.com/william.tauro.54
…

Episode #13 “On Air with Billy Tauro “ an episode about the loonies and the very loonies! 04/22/25 https://youtu.be/7IDEcI5O-eI

Continue reading “On Air with Billy Tauro“ →

April 22nd 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 22nd 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading April 22nd 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Strong work by our Local 76 members and family members who ran the Boston Marathon today! Congratulations on your achievement. Continue reading Members of Somerville Firefighters Local 76 Run Boston Marathon →

By Bob Katzen

Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland) announced the opening of HERstory, a photo exhibit honoring 91 trailblazing women who have shaped the history of Massachusetts and the nation. The exhibit will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays, in Spilka’s ceremonial office on the third floor of the Massachusetts Statehouse, directly outside the Senate Chamber. Continue reading “HERSTORY” PHOTO EXHIBIT HONORING TRAILBLAZING WOMEN →

By Bob Katzen

Current law suspends the liquor license of and closes down for a period of time, any package store that is found guilty of selling to a minor or an intoxicated individual. However, in big box stores, supermarkets, gas stations and other places in which liquor sales are not their primary business, a violation results only in the closing of the liquor department. Continue reading LIQUOR LICENSE SUSPENSION (H 390) →

By Bob Katzen

The Elder Affairs Committee’s hearing included legislation that would require the state treasurer to develop and periodically review and update model curriculum to support seniors’ financial literacy and stability, in consultation with the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, the Massachusetts Councils on Aging and AARP Continue reading SENIORS’ FINANCIAL STABLITY (S 471) →

By Bob Katzen

A bill heard by the Public Service Committee would require the Massachusetts Pension Reserves Investment Management (PRIM) Board to divest direct investments with companies that derive more than 15 percent of revenues from the sale or manufacture of ammunition, firearms or firearm accessories used for civilian purposes. Continue reading DIVEST STATE RETIREMENT FUNDS FROM FIREARMS COMPANIES (H 49) →

By Bob Katzen

The Financial Services Committee held a hearing on a bill that would create a Massachusetts Foreclosure Prevention Program to assist homeowners in avoiding foreclosure through supervised pre-foreclosure conferences between creditors and borrowers regarding foreclosure alternatives. Continue reading FORECLOSURE PREVENTION PROGRAM (S 765) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 134-20, approved a consolidated amendment adding $28.8 million in transportation funding to the $1.3 billion supplemental budget. Much of the funding was for transportation projects and programs proposed by individual representatives for their local districts.
Continue reading CONSOLIDATED TRANSPORTATION AMENDMENT (H 4005) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 151-4, approved a consolidated amendment adding $46.2 in education funding to the $1.3 billion supplemental budget. Much of the funding was for education projects and programs proposed by individual representatives for their local districts.
Continue reading CONSOLIDATED EDUCATION AMENDMENT (H 4005) →

Connect with Mayor, City Officials, and neighbors over free pizza, refreshments, and kids’ activities
in a Somerville park near you

SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City Council are excited to announce the return of “Slice of the City,” a pop-up event series that aims to bring City Hall to local green spaces for evenings of pizza, conversation, and community connection.

Continue reading “Slice of the City” Pop-Up Series Returns to Somerville Wards This May →

Community Engagement will Help Shape New Design Prioritizing Safety and Accessibility of Gilman Square Neighborhood Street Continue reading Somerville Invited to Open House Sharing Western Pearl Street Concept Design Options on Wednesday, May 7 →

Free, Family-Friendly Events May 3–9 Highlight Local Sustainability Efforts

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne invites residents to celebrate SustainaVille Week 2025, a weeklong series of free events from May 3–9 showcasing Somerville’s climate progress and engaging the community in the next steps toward a carbon net-negative future. Continue reading SustainaVille Week 2025: Mayor Ballantyne Celebrates Climate Progress, Announces New Policies →

MEDFORD – The Middlesex District Attorney’s Office and Massachusetts State Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred around 6:30 p.m. on April 17, on Route 93 North in the area of the Roosevelt Circle exit in Medford. The preliminary information suggests that a black Toyota Camry may have been operating erratically prior the multi-car crash. Continue reading Medford Police Seeking Information Following Fatal Crash on Route 93 in Medford →

The Somerville Police Department completed a RAD Women’s Self Defense class on April 14, 2025 at the police department. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Completes RAD Women’s Self Defense Class →

Today marks a remarkable milestone in the career of a truly dedicated leader, Captain Carl Brooks! Over five short years, he has risen straight up through the ranks, serving as an inspiration to his colleagues and community alike. Continue reading Medford Police Department Updates →

Arrest
25019004: On 4/8/25 at approximately 12:57 PM, Somerville Police responded to 165 Broadway for a fight. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated she got into an argument with a male party. During the argument, the male punched her in the face. Officers located the male nearby and he was placed under arrest. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log 4/8/25 – 4/14/25 →

Yesterday Rescue 1 and Ladder 2 took advantage of the good weather and conducted drills at Assembly Row. Continue reading Somerville Fire Department Strong! →

When they name a criminal David Bowie it seems desperate. The loud voices, the bad scripts, the overacting, how wonderful Daredevil Born Again seamlessly brought the viewers back from Netflix to the reborn show on Disney, how inevitable that Law and Order: Organized Crime crossing over with Law and Order: SVU would have their fanbase back on Peacock, and how awful that Comcast/NBC’s Suits L.A. cannot do anything right. Continue reading S 1 E 8 Acapulco S 1 E 9 Bat Signal Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht) looks like an older Ted Black (Stephen Amell) but L.A. Suits Still Doesn’t Work TV Review by Joe Viglione →

Paula’s studio is now at 16 rear Ivaloo Street Somerville Continue reading SOMERVILLE OPEN STUDIOS MAY 3&4 NOON TO 6PM →

This past Friday April 18th, a group of Somerville veterans placed American flags and remembrance wreaths at 4 sites around the city commemorating the 250th anniversary of historical occurrence’s that took place on April 18th and 19th, 1775 at those locations in recognition of their significance to the start of the American Revolution. Continue reading Somerville Veterans Wreath Placing 250th Anniversary of Historical Significance to the Start of American Revolution →

Doherty, Joseph M. – Of Somerville, passed away surrounded by members of his loving family on Monday, April 14, 2025. He was 83 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph M. Doherty →

Frammartino, Antoinette “Dolly” (Stewart) of Medford passed away surrounded by her loving family on April 19, 2025, at the age of 89. Continue reading Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering Antoinette “Dolly” Frammartino →

Obituary for Joseph E. Spear
Joseph Edward Spear Sr., of Somerville, passed away on April 14, 2025. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph E. Spear →

The fictional character Zefram Cochrane from Star Trek did not get what was owed him. “Metamorphosis” is the ninth episode of the second season of the American science fiction television series Star Trek. Continue reading Zefram Cochrane – the Star Trek Character That Got Away A second look from Joe Viglione →

April 11th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 11th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1) Continue reading April 11th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Everything from gas to housing to taxes is too expensive. Too many kids aren’t receiving the education they need to compete in a global economy. Our transportation system is still broken. The unspeakable violence in migrant shelters is a human tragedy and a national embarrassment. Our beacon on a hill has become a beacon in the rearview mirror. I’m running for governor because I believe in the unlimited potential of our state through the power of our people.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

Continue reading PREVENT SUICIDE (S 1109 →

By Bob Katzen

The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on several bills including these three:

EMINENT DOMAIN (H 67) – This proposed constitutional amendment 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. Continue reading JUDICIARY COMMITTEE HEARING →

By Bob Katzen
The Revenue Committee held a hearing on a measure that would give Massachusetts residents the option, on their Massachusetts income tax form, to contribute to a special United Nations Fund — the Least Developed Countries Fund — to help developing countries cope with the effects of global warming. Continue reading CONTRIBUTE VIA A MASSACHUSETTS TAX RETURN TO COUNTRIES COPING WITH GLOBAL WARMING (S 1922) →

By Bob Katzen

During the debate on the surtax, Freshman Rep. John Gaskey (R-Carver) proposed an amendment that would prohibit any public school from allowing a biological male athlete to participate on a girls’ sports team and also prohibit a biological female athlete from participating on a boys’ sports team. Any school found not in compliance with this ban would forfeit all games which violate the ban.
Continue reading TRANSGENDER STUDENTS AND SCHOOL SPORTS →

By Bob Katzen

The House 25-125, rejected an amendment that would reduce funding for the MBTA by $50 million (from $818 million to $768 million) and instead give the $50 million to cities and towns for roads using a formula based strictly on each municipality’s local road mileage. Currently, communities receive roads funding based on their population, employment and total road miles. Continue reading 50 MILLION TO CITIES AND TOWNS FOR LOCAL ROADS (H 4005) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 140-14, approved and sent to the Senate a $1.3 billion supplemental budget that uses funds generated from the recent surtax imposed on taxpayers’ earnings of more than $1 million annually, to fund $353 million for education-related projects and $828 million for transportation-related ones. It also includes non-surtax spending that pushes the combined bottom line to roughly $1.3 billion. Continue reading $1.3 BILLION FOR TRANSPORTATION AND EDUCATION (H 4005) →

Obituary
Frances R. (Siracusa) Canto – Of Tewksbury, formerly of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13, 2025. She was 91 years old.

Complete obit to be posted. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Frances R. (Siracusa) Canto →

Obituary
Grace Mckenna Schwartz, born on April 20, 1929, in Boston, passed away on December 17, 2024. She grew up in Somerville, MA, and graduated from Somerville High in 1947. In her youth, Grace was a talented dancer, performing at various events throughout New England, from the Boston Opera House to Jacob’s Pillow. Later, she shared her passion for dance by teaching at the Studio of Kathrine Dixon and was a longtime member of the Dance Teachers Club of Boston. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Grace Mckenna Schwartz →

Obituary
Barbara J. Synan, of Somerville passed away on April 7, 2025. She was 85. Born and raised in Somerville, she was the cherished daughter of the late Patrick and Ellen (Hanlon) Whalen. She was the beloved wife of 58 years of the late James M. Synan. Loving mother of James (Colleen) of Leland, NC, Denise of Wakefield and Michael (Donna) of Lexington. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Barbara J. Synan →

Obituary
Andree Doricent – Of Somerville, formerly of Haiti, passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. She was 85 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Andree Doricent →