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Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: The City’s taking of the Armory by eminent domain in 2021 entitled all tenants in place at the time to apply for relocation benefits aka Eviction

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

The city sent us this:

 Ms. Parama Chattopadhyay
Out of the Blue Community Arts. Inc.
Unit B6, Somerville Armory
191 Highland Avenue
Somerville, MA 02413

May 22, 2025
Dear Ms. Chattopadhyay,

Thank you for your understanding as the City of Somerville has completed the Armory Master Plan. As a longstanding tenant, we appreciate your role in making the Armory a vibrant and creative arts destination, and hope that you continue to thrive in our community. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: The City’s taking of the Armory by eminent domain in 2021 entitled all tenants in place at the time to apply for relocation benefits aka Eviction →

Dr. Octavia A. Sampson‘s Graduation from Tufts University School of Dental

By William Tauro

Graduating from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine represents the fulfillment of Octavia’s lifelong dream—a journey defined by faith in God, perseverance, and the unwavering support of community. So many obstacles arose between her and her goal of becoming a dentist. Continue reading Dr. Octavia A. Sampson‘s Graduation from Tufts University School of Dental →

$22.2 MILLION TO MODERNIZE AFFORDABLE HOUSING INTERNET

By Bob Katzen

The Healey Administration announced $22.2 million in grants to upgrade internet access for 15,793 affordable housing units across 54 communities in Massachusetts. The projects will install modern fiber-optic cables in public and affordable housing properties that will increase residents’ access to high-quality, reliable and affordable broadband service. Continue reading $22.2 MILLION TO MODERNIZE AFFORDABLE HOUSING INTERNET →

HEALTHY PUBLIC COLLEGES (S 949)

By Bob Katzen

The Higher Education Committee will hold a hearing on June 3rd to hear testimony and consider legislation that would establish a Green and Healthy Public College and University Building Planning Commission to evaluate and make recommendations on campus infrastructure — focusing on energy efficiency, indoor air quality, accessibility, life safety and overall public health.
Continue reading HEALTHY PUBLIC COLLEGES (S 949) →

INCREASE ESTATE/DEATH TAX EXEMPTION (S 3)

By Bob Katzen

Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment that would increase from $2 million to $5 million the amount of money that is tax exempt from the value of a person’s estate when calculating the state’s estate/death tax that a person is required to pay following their death before distribution to any beneficiary. The increase to $5 million would be implemented over three years. Continue reading INCREASE ESTATE/DEATH TAX EXEMPTION (S 3) →

CAPITAL GAINS TAX DISTRIBUTION (S 3)

By Bob Katzen

Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment that would require any excess revenue in capital gains revenue over $1 billion to annually automatically be transferred as follows: 80 percent to the Rainy Day Fund; 10 percent to the state’s Pension Liability Fund; and 10 percent to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund. The amendment would replace a section that distributes 5 percent to the Rainy Day Fund; 90 percent to the state’s Pension Liability Fund; and 5 percent to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund.

Continue reading CAPITAL GAINS TAX DISTRIBUTION (S 3) →

HUMAN TRAFFICKING (S 3)

By Bob Katzen

By Bob Katzen

Senate 12-28, rejected an amendment that would mandate human trafficking training for all hotel, motel, lodging house or bed and breakfast establishment employees in the Bay State, from the front desk to housekeeping and food service, in order to equip them to recognize and respond to trafficking situations. The measure also requires these establishments to post in plain view, in the lobby and in any public restroom in their establishment, a written notice developed by the attorney general, which must include the national human trafficking hotline telephone number.
Continue reading HUMAN TRAFFICKING (S 3) →

SENATE APPROVES $61.4 BILLION FISCAL 2026 STATE BUDGET (S 3)

By Bob Katzen

Senate 38-2, approved a $61.4 billion fiscal 2026 state budget after three days of debate. The House has already approved a different version, and 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 SENATE APPROVES $61.4 BILLION FISCAL 2026 STATE BUDGET (S 3) →

ENGLISH LEARNERS (H 4150)

By Bob Katzen

House 150-1, approved an amendment that would enshrine protections for English language learners and students with disabilities currently provided under federal law into state law, ensuring that these students receive both English language development and Special Education services in a coordinated, culturally and linguistically appropriate manner, regardless of school district or demographic. The amendment also prohibits discrimination in public schools based on immigration, citizenship status or disability.
Continue reading ENGLISH LEARNERS (H 4150) →

Prospect Hill Academy Charter School Named as a Recipient of the Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries Grant

On May 8th, Prospect Hill Academy Charter School (PHA) was named one of 220 schools from 38 states across the country to receive a $5,000 grant through the Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries. This year, the Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries awarded over $1 million in library grants.
Continue reading Prospect Hill Academy Charter School Named as a Recipient of the Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries Grant →

Medford Lions Senior Scholarship

Sharon Deyeso, VP, and Dr Usha Sharma spoke at the Awards Ceremony on May 21 on the “serve” purposes of Lions: Mass Eye Research, BU and Tufts Eye Research, Diabetes and Disaster Aid. This year the Medford Lions awarded two $500 Scholarships to Lorelai Hebert and Owen Lynch. The gifts are only given to an eye, hearing or personal hurdle challenge student. The Buffet Fundraiser is on JUNE 6. Continue reading Medford Lions Senior Scholarship →

City of Somerville Releases Master Plan for Public-Owned Community Arts Center at Armory Building

Roadmap for successful community arts center reflects nearly three years of community feedback.

City issues call for Somerville Armory Advisory Board Members.

SOMERVILLE — After an intensive community engagement process, the City of Somerville has now released its Master Plan for establishing its Armory building as a public community arts center, which would place Somerville among only a handful of communities nationwide with a public-owned arts and culture center. Continue reading City of Somerville Releases Master Plan for Public-Owned Community Arts Center at Armory Building →

City of Somerville to Present Findings from Senior Needs Assessment at May 23 Event

SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne. and the Somerville Council on Aging (COA) are inviting community members to attend a special presentation of the results from Somerville’s Senior Needs Assessment on Friday, May 23, at 11 a.m., at 167 Holland Street. Continue reading City of Somerville to Present Findings from Senior Needs Assessment at May 23 Event →

George Floyd’s Uncle Visits Boston To Join Rally For Wrongfully Convicted

 

This month is the 5 year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder by police in Minneapolis. It was a tragic moment on May 25th 2020 that sparked outrage and protests across the country. 5 years later his family is still working to make a difference in his name. This Wednesday May 21st, George Floyd’s Uncle will be visiting Boston to support a press conference demanding more change.
Continue reading George Floyd’s Uncle Visits Boston To Join Rally For Wrongfully Convicted →

Somerville Police Department Updates

On Tuesday, May 13th, 2025, in recognition of their work advocating for First Responder Wellness, the Somerville Police Department was selected to receive a Mental Health Miranda Rights Banner created by Officer Dave Betz of Tufts University Police Department. Chief Shumeane Benford, Administrators and several SPD Officers were in attendance, recognizing the importance of this work and the need to continue the conversation. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Updates →

Somerville’s Nicotine-Free Generation Policy Begins as New Sales Regulations In Effect

SOMERVILLE – This spring, Somerville’s Board of Health (BOH) voted for the City to join a growing
national movement to create a Nicotine-Free generation by adopting new public health regulations limiting the sale of nicotine products, which went into effect May 1.
Continue reading Somerville’s Nicotine-Free Generation Policy Begins as New Sales Regulations In Effect →

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill

By Bob Katzen

“It was great to welcome Suni Williams to the Statehouse and back home to Massachusetts. Her resilience and dedication to service serves as an incredible model for young people across the state, reminding them that their potential is as limitless as outer space. We hope that some of the students who joined us today will be inspired to pursue careers in STEM and truly reach for the stars.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

AGRICULTURAL EQUITY FOR MINORITIES (S 53)

By Bob Katzen

Would create a special legislative commission to study and develop recommendations for supporting investments, policies and practices designed to “promote equity in agriculture for socially disadvantaged groups in the commonwealth that have been historically or systematically excluded or have had less access to resources and opportunities based on cultural, racial or ethnic prejudice.” Continue reading AGRICULTURAL EQUITY FOR MINORITIES (S 53) →

SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY AND HIV STATUS (H 776)

By Bob Katzen

The Elder Affairs Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would amend current state law under which the federal Older Americans Act of 1965, signed by the late President Lyndon Johnson, offers social and nutrition services for seniors over 60 years old. Under current law, the state administers the Act using two definitions: “greatest economic need” and “greatest social need.” Continue reading SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY AND HIV STATUS (H 776) →

SWITCH SCHOOL BUSES FROM DIESEL TO ELECTRIC (S 2241)

By Bob Katzen

Photo by William Tauro

The Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy Committee held a hearing on a bill that would establish a grant program run by the Department of Energy Resources to help cities and towns offset the cost difference between buying zero-emission electric school buses and traditional diesel-powered ones. The grant program would prioritize support for communities in which the median household income is below the state’s median income or where the 5-year average rate of emergency department visits for childhood asthmas is greater than the state’s 5-year average rate.

Continue reading SWITCH SCHOOL BUSES FROM DIESEL TO ELECTRIC (S 2241) →

CONSOLIDATED LABOR AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AMENDMENT (H 4000)

By Bob Katzen

House 154-3, approved a consolidated amendment adding $25 million in funding to Labor and Economic Development programs in the $61.47 billion fiscal year 2026 state budget. Much of the funding was for projects and programs proposed by individual representatives for their local districts.
Continue reading CONSOLIDATED LABOR AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AMENDMENT (H 4000) →

CONSOLIDATED ENERGY, ENVIRONMENTAL AND FOOD ASSISTANCE AMENDMENT (H 4000)

By Bob Katzen

House 154-3, approved a consolidated amendment adding $5.8 million in funding to Energy, Environmental and Food Assistance programs in the $61.47 billion fiscal year 2026 state budget. Much of the funding was for projects and programs proposed by individual representatives for their local districts. Continue reading CONSOLIDATED ENERGY, ENVIRONMENTAL AND FOOD ASSISTANCE AMENDMENT (H 4000) →

CONSOLIDATED HOUSING, JUDICIARY AND PUBLIC SAETY AMENDMENT (H 4000)

By Bob Katzen

House 154-2, approved a consolidated amendment adding $10.5 million in funding to Housing, Judiciary and Public Safety programs in the $61.47 billion fiscal year 2026 state budget. Much of the funding was for projects and programs proposed by individual representatives for their local districts. Continue reading CONSOLIDATED HOUSING, JUDICIARY AND PUBLIC SAETY AMENDMENT (H 4000) →

Peter Asher At Regent Theater Arlington Matinee 2 PM Sunday May 18, 2025

By Joe Viglione

As Jim McCarty tells the story of the Yardbirds on tour, Peter Asher is presenting his life in the world of rock and pop, and will be doing so in a two pm matinee at 7 Medford St., Arlington, across from Arlington Catholic High School which I escaped from around 1969. There is parking in back of the high school. Medford St. is off of Mass Ave., and there are multiple MBTA bus lines that stop directly at the theater.

Continue reading Peter Asher At Regent Theater Arlington Matinee 2 PM Sunday May 18, 2025 →

Arrested In Somerville, Rules are Rules and Laws are Laws!

Your thoughts?

By William Tauro

When the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.) agents were first sited in Somerville this past March, rumors of I.C.E. raids became true and people began to take them seriously! During that week in March, I.C.E. raided a local Somerville business where I.C.E. agents were looking for one targeted bad guy who worked there at the local Somerville business which they found and arrested.
Continue reading Arrested In Somerville, Rules are Rules and Laws are Laws! →

SomerStreets 2025 Kicks Off with Carnaval Celebration on Sunday, June 1

SomerStreets: Carnaval returns for the 15th year to East Somerville on Sunday, June 1, from 2 to
6 p.m.

SOMERVILLE –The Somerville community is invited to get their dancing shoes on as SomerStreets: Carnaval returns on Sunday, June 1, from 2 to 6 p.m. (rain date Sunday, June 8) to kick off the 2025 SomerStreets season, which will include a series of three neighborhood street festivals across Somerville. Continue reading SomerStreets 2025 Kicks Off with Carnaval Celebration on Sunday, June 1 →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia Ann Daley (McLeod)

Patricia Ann Daley (McLeod)
February 10, 1961 — May 12, 2025
Malden

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Patricia Ann Daley, who entered into eternal rest on May 12, 2025, at the age of 64. Born on February 10, 1961, Patricia was a loving, caring, and loyal mother to her three sons: Daniel Ryan Mailhiot and his partner Juan Pablo Betancur Davila; Brian Michael Daley; and Kevin Michael Daley and his wife Angela. She was the cherished grandmother of Angelina, Jack, and Adrianna Daley.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia Ann Daley (McLeod) →

Somerville to Host Annual Pride Flag Raising Ceremony on June 5

SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Office of Health and Human Services are inviting all community members to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride Month at the annual Pride Flag Raising Ceremony on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the City Hall Concourse (93 Highland Ave.). Continue reading Somerville to Host Annual Pride Flag Raising Ceremony on June 5 →

This Spring, Garden Like a Pollinator Pro in Somerville

Somerville’s Pollinator Action Plan is your guide to planting smarter and supporting nature.

SOMERVILLE – With spring in full swing, the City of Somerville is reminding residents that the season of growth is also the season of pollinators. As you shop for plants to fill garden pots or garden beds, you can play a role in feeding and sheltering the insects that keep our global ecosystem functioning. Continue reading This Spring, Garden Like a Pollinator Pro in Somerville →

Suspicious Small Fires Extinguished At Somerville Winter Hill Community School

The Winter Hill Community Innovation School in Somerville. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)

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 →

Social Engineering and the Paralysis of Woke Politics in Our Society

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 →

Somerville: Join ‘Slice of the City’ Meet-Up Events Next Week: Ward 3 (5/12) & Ward 6 (5/13)

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) →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Walter (Wally) Fitzgerald

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 →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Edward Leo Kelley

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 →

Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert F. “Bob” Driscoll

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 →

THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL

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 →

ALLOW 16-AND 17-YEAR OLDS TO VOTE IN LOCAL ELECTIONS (H 813)

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) →

BAN USE OF HELIUM BALLOONS (H 996)

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) →

BAN HOTELS FROM PROIVIDING PLASTIC-PACKAGED TOILETRIES TO GUESTS (S 609)

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) →

GIVE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS COLLEGE CREDITS FOR HIGH SCORES ON ADVANCED PLACEMENT PLANS

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 →

$1.3 BILLION FOR TRANSPORTATION AND EDUCATION (S 2512)

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) →

SOMERVILLE/MEDFORD NEWS WEEKLY SPEAKUP LINE:LONGTIME SOMERVILLE BUSINESSES VICTIMS OF THIS CURRENT ADMINISTRATION

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 →

City of Cambridge Department of Veterans Services Memorial Day Weekend & MA250 Observance Events

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 →

Somerville Water and Sewer Department to Begin Its Annual Water System Flushing Program on May 15

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 →

Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Parents Outraged Over School Inviting Students To Dress Up As Drag Queens

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 →

William Tauro Pulls Papers for Mayor of Somerville for 2025 Election

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 →

Mayor Ballantyne and Somerville City Council Approve Changes to Somerville Charter, Now Set to Advance to State Legislature

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 →

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill

“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 →

TOXIC CHEMICALS IN CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS (H 384)

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) →

WAIVE SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER REQUIREMENT (H 451)

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) →

ALLOW DETAINMENT BY IMMIGRATION AND CUSTOMS ENFORCEMENT (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) →

MUNICIPAL TAX AMNESTY (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) →

HOUSE APPROVES $61.47 BILLION FISCAL 2026 STATE BUDGET (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) →

A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE “MAKING OF THE BUDGET”

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” →

Somerville Launching “Neighbors Talking to Neighbors” Dialogue Series

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 →

Man Charged after Striking Pedestrian and Fleeing Crash in Lowell

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 →

William Tauro Facebook Site Hacked Investigation Ongoing

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 →

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill

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 →

HEALTH CARE SURROGATE (S 1047)

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) →

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

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 →

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Permission is granted to electronically copy and to print in hard copy portions of this Web site for the sole purpose of placing an order with Mass Publishing Inc. or using this Web site as a shopping resource. Any other use of materials on this Web site — including reproduction for purposes other than those permitted above, modification, distribution, republishing, transmission, display or performance - without the prior written permission of Mass Publishing Inc. is strictly prohibited. All material and information presented by Mass Publishing Inc. is intended to be used for educational or informational purposes only. The statements made about products have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the results reported, if any, may not necessarily occur in all individuals. The statements and products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Please consult with your own physician or health care practitioner regarding the suggestions and recommendations made at Mass Publishing Inc.. TRADEMARKS Mass Publishing Inc. and all page headers, custom graphics and button icons are service marks, trademarks, and/or trade dress of Mass Publishing Inc. and may not be used in connection with any product or service that is not offered by Mass Publishing Inc. in any manner that is likely to cause confusion among customers, or in any manner that disparages or discredits Mass Publishing Inc.. All other trademarks, product names and company names or logos cited herein are the property of their respective owners. DISCLAIMER MASS PUBLISHING INC. IS PROVIDING THIS SITE AND ITS CONTENTS ON AN "AS-IS" BASIS AND MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH RESPECT TO THE OPERATION OF THIS SITE, THE INFORMATION, CONTENT, MATERIALS OR PRODUCTS, INCLUDED ON THIS SITE. TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, MASS PUBLISHING INC. DISCLAIMS ALL SUCH REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES, INCLUDING FOR EXAMPLE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN ADDITION, MASS PUBLISHING INC. DOES NOT REPRESENT OR WARRANT THAT THE INFORMATION ACCESSIBLE VIA THIS SITE IS ACCURATE, COMPLETE OR CURRENT. Price and availability information is subject to change without notice. MASS PUBLISHING INC. WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES OF ANY KIND ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF THIS WEB SITE. THIS IS A COMPREHENSIVE LIMITATION OF LIABILITY THAT APPLIES TO ALL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LOSS OF DATA, INCOME OR PROFIT, LOSS OF OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY AND CLAIMS OF THIRD PARTIES. APPLICABLE LAW This site is created and controlled by Mass Publishing Inc. in the State of Massachusetts, U.S.A. As such, the laws of the State of Massachusetts will govern these disclaimers, terms and conditions, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of laws. Mass Publishing Inc. reserves the right to make changes to its Web site and these disclaimers, terms and conditions at any time. PRICING INFORMATION All pricing on Mass Publishing Inc. is in US dollars unless specifically indicated otherwise. Errors and omission excepted. FRAUD PROTECTION PROGRAM As part of our order processing procedures, we screen all received orders for fraud or other types of unauthorized or illegal activity. We reserve the right to refuse to process any order due to suspected fraud or unauthorized or illegal activity. If such is the case, we may reject your order or our Customer Service department may call you at the phone number you provided to confirm your order. We also reserve the right to cancel any account or refuse to ship to certain addresses due to suspected fraud or unauthorized or illegal activity. We take these measures to protect our customers as well as ourselves from fraud or other unauthorized or illegal activity. COMMENTS, FEEDBACK AND OTHER SUBMISSIONS Mass Publishing Inc. welcomes your comments and feedback regarding this Web site, and Mass Publishing Inc. products and services. Any information, materials, suggestions, ideas or comments sent to Mass Publishing Inc. will not be treated as confidential, proprietary or trade secret information and, by submitting such information, you are granting Mass Publishing Inc. an irrevocable and unrestricted license to use, modify, reproduce, transmit, display and distribute such information for any purpose whatsoever. If you have any questions about these Terms and Conditions, or the content or practices of our website, you can contact Mass Publishing Inc. directly at: Wmtauro@aol.com WHAT OUR PRIVACY POLICY COVERS · What our Privacy Policy Covers · What Personal Information is Collected · How We Protect Your Information · How We Use Your Personal Information · Who Views Your Personal Information · Making a Purchase · Children Under 13 · Website Cookies · Questions About This Policy WHAT OUR PRIVACY POLICY COVERS Thank you for visiting our site. We are committed to protecting your privacy. This Privacy Policy covers any personal information that we obtain from you when you use services on our site. This policy does not cover the practices of companies that we do not own or control, or the actions of people that we do not employ or manage. Our Privacy Policy may change in the future. We invite you to check back periodically to see if we have made any changes. By using this site, you agree to the terms of our policy. For more information about the terms of use for this site, please visit our legal page. WHAT PERSONAL INFORMATION IS COLLECTED Depending on how you use our site, we may ask you to share personal information with us. Whether you choose to give us this information is completely up to you, but keep in mind that if you withhold information, you may not be able to use some of our services. We will ask you for information, including some personal information, when you Make a purchase. When you buy something on this site, you have to supply a billing address, phone number, shipping address, and credit card information. HOW WE PROTECT YOUR INFORMATION We realize that our customers trust us to protect their personal information. We take that task seriously. We never display your full credit card number once it has been entered. We urge you to protect your own privacy. We recommend that you do not share your password with anyone or share your password in an unsolicited phone call or e-mail. Unfortunately, despite all of our efforts, there is always a risk that third parties may unlawfully intercept transmissions. This reality is true of all Internet use. As a result, we cannot ensure the security of any information you transmit, and you transmit all information at your own risk. 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. At this time, we do not share any personal information with marketing affiliates. It is unlikely that this policy will change in the future. If we do decide to share information with our affiliates, we will post a notice in this Privacy Policy. MAKING A PURCHASE When you buy something on this site, you have to supply a billing address, phone number, shipping address, and credit card information. By making a purchase, you become a registered user. You can choose to store information needed to make a purchase, such as your shipping and billing addresses in the My Account — Profile page. Your credit card information is NEVER stored in our databases and is used only for the duration of the purchase transaction. This data is always transmitted securely to the merchant bank and immediately erased from our systems. CHILDREN UNDER 13 Our site is not designed for children. We do not wish to collect personal information from children under 13. This policy is designed to protect children. Federal law requires us to take special steps to safeguard children's privacy. If you register with us and we discover that you are under 13, we will delete your registration. We will send you a message if we do this. If you are under 13 and want to make a purchase, please ask a parent to place the order for you. WEBSITE COOKIES We collect some anonymous information about how you use the site by setting and accessing cookies on your computer. These cookies track information such as how often you visit our web site, what pages you view, and where you go after you leave the site. The cookies track your computer, not you. They are not connected to any personal information about you. QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS POLICY If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, or the content or practices of our website, you can contact us directly at: Mass Publishing Inc. wmtauro@aol.com Terms & Conditions/ Cancellation/return policy:If unsatisfied with subscription 7 day money back cancellation return policy on monthly subscriptions. 30 day money back cancellation return policy on yearly subscriptions. Contact Email: Somervillenewsweekly@yahoo.com