By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House a bill that would provide a Massachusetts identification card to incarcerated individuals who will soon be released from prison and will be re-entering society.
Continue reading RE-ENTRY INTO SOCIETY FOR JAILED PRISONERS (S 2883) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a bill that would change some of the state’s gun laws.

Provisions include cracking down on untraceable “ghost guns;” banning firearms in additional public spaces like schools, polling places and government buildings; expanding the 2018 “red flag” law that allows school administrators and licensed health care providers to petition a court to temporarily take firearms away from someone deemed a threat to themselves or others; closing loopholes that allow the modification of legal firearms into illegal automatic weapons; and providing a legacy clause so all firearms legally owned and registered in Massachusetts as of the effective date of the bill will continue to be legal and may be bought and sold within the state. Continue reading HEALEY SIGNS FIREARMS CHANGES (H 4885) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved a bill making changes to the state’s long term care and assisted living industry which supporters said will take “a powerful step towards delivering the high quality and safe care that Massachusetts seniors deserve by substantially strengthening oversight and enforcement while also requiring facilities to create outbreak plans should a health issue arise.”
Continue reading LONG TERM CARE AND ASSISTED LIVING (S 2889) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 158-0, approved a bill that supporters say would make major changes and reforms to the state’s pharmaceutical system by lowering the cost of drugs at the pharmacy counter and improving oversight of the pharmaceutical industry. They said the measure protects patients and independent pharmacists by regulating the pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) industry; banning many of the industry’s worst business practices; and reducing or eliminating co-pays for certain chronic conditions.
Continue reading PHARMACEUTICAL ACCESS, COSTS AND TRANSPARENCY (H 4910) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 156-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that prohibits the Department of Children and Families (DCF) from prohibiting placement of a child in a foster home solely based on the presence of any specific breed of dog in the home.
Continue reading FOSTER HOMES AND DOGS (H 4911) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-0, approved and sent to the Senate legislation that effective January 1, 2025, would ban elephants, bears, lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, cheetahs and other wild animals from being used in traveling circuses and other traveling shows in Massachusetts where they would be used to perform tricks, give rides or otherwise participate as an accompaniment for the entertainment of a live audience. Continue reading BAN ELEPHANTS AND OTHER ANIMALS (H 4915) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 159-0, approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would allow the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to establish rules and regulations for dog kennels in the Bay State, to ensure animal welfare, protect consumers and keep kennel staff safe.
Continue reading DOG KENNEL SAFETY – OLLIE’S LAW (H 4919) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 152-5, Senate 38-2, approved and sent to Gov. Healey a bill, named the Frances Perkins Workplace Equity Act, in honor of the first woman to serve as U.S. Labor Secretary. The measure would require employers with 25 or more employees to disclose a salary range when posting a job position. Continue reading WAGE TRANSPARENCY (H 4890) →

By Bib Katzen

The House 156-2, Senate 39-0, approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a bill that would invest in information technology (IT) upgrades, improvements and new projects across state government. The measure authorizes $1.23 billion in bonded spending and $400 million in anticipated federal funds.
Continue reading $1.26 BILLION BOND FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (H 4889) →

6 Overlook Dr. Unit 302, Andover, MA 01810. Open house August 3rd from 11:30-1:00. Please read listing. This is an affordable resale unit. One household member must be 62+ and a full application must be completed to ensure all household members meet the income requirements. Continue reading For sale by owner- Affordable resale opportunity! →

Obituary
John “Jack” MacDonald, a longtime Somerville resident, passed away at home surrounded by the love of his family on July 24, 2024. He was 87. Born in Somerville, raised in Cambridge he was the son of Margaret (Deely) and John MacDonald.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John “Jack” MacDonald →

Yay…Wow…On Saturday, July 20, 2024, many tenants from Ward 7, Clarendon Hill Towers, enjoyed three (3) Complimentary Tickets to “purchase” many scrumptious menu selections from festive food trucks situated on the property.
Continue reading CLARENDON HILL TOWERS TENANTS, WARD 7, ENJOYED A FABULOUS SUMMERTIME FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL! →

I truly saw Man’s second best friend this week, Kolin Burgoyne, owner of Colleen’s fine, popular Ice Cream, Medford SQ!! I had eye surgery this week and while telling him I could not lift, he added he would like to lift the heavy mulch for me on the isle dedicated to my family…bags of 40 lbs! Nice moment in a busy store and home schedule…I began adorning this isle four years ago
Continue reading News ’bout Town….Pick of the Week..Medford →

By News Staff

Just shy of three years ago coming up in a few days, Maria Curtatone, her daughter and their friends were accused of destruction of property for destroying Billy Tauro political campaign signs and defacing Somerville/Medford News Weekly newspaper boxes causing a criminal complaint taken out against Curtatone’s daughter. The incident was even caught on videotape surveillance from local shops in the perimeter area. Continue reading Registrar Maria Curtatone and Son In Somerville District Court Again →

Obituary

Edward Vincent Yeo, 60, a longtime resident of Somerville, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2024. Edward will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Edward Vincent Yeo →

Obituary

After not being able to eat or drink for days, his last discernible word was

“Hallelujah”

Dad lost his mother at the age of 16, and his father (a hard-working pickle-seller) at the age of 19. Dad was the youngest of 5 children. Dad sang “Ana Mish Waheed” (I am not alone) at his Father’s Funeral. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Morris Zakhari Rizkallah →

John Williams, a lifelong resident of Somerville, MA and a US Army veteran, passed away recently. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John Williams →

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

Ok
Board of Health director Karin Carroll gives out free needles. And also if they bring back 50 needles she gives them 10bucks. Who’s money city?
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Somerville’s Dumping Ground for Methadone Packs, Condoms etc… →

Click on link below to read July 23rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online July 23rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

By Bob Katzen

“Ensuring every student can read is fundamental to all other education goals and right now we are failing miserably. Progress on literacy cannot wait another day. Failure to act is costing our students and threatening their futures.”
— Ed Lambert, executive director of Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education, urging legislators to pass legislation that would expand the use of science-based literacy instruction to address the state’s early literacy crisis. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Street →

By Bob Katzen

These three bills were all given initial approval by the House in April but have not moved since. They are stuck in the Bills in Third Reading Committee.

EXPAND PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS FOR POLICE AND FIREFIGHTERS (H 2890) – Would expand the current law which provides a property tax abatement to the surviving spouses and minor children of police officers and firefighters “killed in the line of duty.” The bill provides that the abatement also go to the families of officers who “died in the line of duty.”
Continue reading BILLS STUCK IN COMMITTEE →

By Bob Katzen

The House has shipped off to a study committee a measure that would require the owner of any property used or to be used for a pet cemetery to file in the Registry of Deeds a dedication restricting the property to be used only for the operation of a pet cemetery. Bills that are sent to a study committee bills are rarely actually studied and are essentially defeated. It is a way to kill a proposal without holding a vote on the bill itself.
Continue reading PET CEMETERIES (H 4206) →

By Bob Katzen

Secretary of State Bill Galvin told voters this week to check their mail for an official 2024 Vote By Mail Application. His office is sending applications to all registered voters who have not already applied for a state primary ballot. Voters who already applied earlier this year will not receive another application.
Continue reading VOTE BY MAIL APPLICATIONS →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 6-33, rejected an amendment extending until 2030 the current law, due to expire in 2026, that allows consumers to use coupons to get discounts and rebates when purchasing prescription drugs. In 2012, Massachusetts was the last state to lift a ban on the use of prescription coupons.
Continue reading DRUG COUPONS (S 2871) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 10-30, rejected an amendment that would allow the Executive Branch to take immediate control of a healthcare provider’s assets in cases of the provider’s financial insolvency. The Executive Office of Health and Human Services would also play a part in developing a pathway, through regulations, to stabilize healthcare providers.
Continue reading FINANCIAL INSOLVENCY (S 2871) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 7-32, rejcted an amendment that would allow dually eligible individuals, also known as duals, who qualify for Medicare and MassHealth, to access care from any specialist or hospital enrolled in Medicare or MassHealth.
Continue reading DUAL ELIGIBLE INDIVIDUALS (S 2871) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 38-2, approved a bill that supporters said includes urgent reforms to the state’s health care system to boost oversight and transparency in the market, improve patient access to prescribed medication and treatment and plug holes in oversight of hospitals, especially for-profit systems like the bankrupt Steward Health Care.
Continue reading HEALTH CARE CHANGES (S 2871) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 131-25, approved a bill that supporters said would increase the state’s supply of clean energy by setting new renewable energy generation storage procurement targets, and by streamlining the state and local permitting process.
Continue reading CLEAN ENERGY (H 4884) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 123-33, Senate 35-5, approved and sent to Gov. Healey a bill that would change some of the state’s gun laws.

Provisions include cracking down on untraceable “ghost guns;” banning firearms in additional public spaces like schools, polling places and government buildings; expanding the 2018 “red flag” law that allows school administrators and licensed health care providers to petition a court to temporarily take firearms away from someone deemed a threat to themselves or others; closing loopholes that allow the modification of legal firearms into illegal automatic weapons; and providing a legacy clause so all firearms legally owned and registered in Massachusetts as of the effective date of the bill will continue to be legal and may be bought and sold within the state.
Continue reading APPROVE FIREARMS CHANGES (H 4885) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 154-3, Senate 40-0, approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a $58 billion fiscal 2025 state budget for the fiscal year that began July 1, 2024. The price tag represents a 1.97 billion or 3.5 percent increase over last year’s fiscal 2024 budget.
Continue reading APPROVE $58 BILLION FISCAL 2025 STATE BUDGET (H 4800) →

By Joe Viglione

In a summer with the Yardbirds, The Rolling Stones and Herman’s Hermits visiting Boston, one would think it is 1964 all over again. In a Zoom conversation July 9th 2024 with the lead singer of the Herman’s Hermits, Peter Noone noted that all three of those groups did play together in the early 1960s.
Continue reading Peter Noone at the City Winery Boston, Sunday July 28, 2024 3 pm and 7 pm →

Browse Over 40 Local Vendors, Hop on a Bounce House, or Cool Down on a Water Slide on Tuesday August 6, starting at 5 p.m.

SOMERVILLE–Community members looking for a night out this summer can look no further than the City of Somerville’s annual National Night Out Event hosted by the Somerville Police Department and the Somerville Office of Parks & Recreation.
Continue reading Join Somerville’s Annual National Night Out Event to Enjoy Free Family-Friendly Activities, Music, Food, and More →

Continue reading LIVE SHOW & DINNER COMEDY NIGHT →

SOMERVILLE- The City of Somerville is alerting all registered voters that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has begun mailing a pre-addressed, postage pre-paid Vote by Mail application to every registered voter before each statewide election. If you have already applied to vote by mail for the upcoming election, you will not receive an additional application.
Continue reading Community Notice: Vote by Mail Applications for 2024 Presidential Election from Commonwealth of Massachusetts Starting to Arrive in Mailboxes →

Event hosted by Pathway for Immigrant Workers and the City of Somerville, will be held on Tuesday,
July 30, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. online via Zoom.

SOMERVILLE–
The City of Somerville and Pathway for Immigrant Workers will host a free virtual immigration
legal information session for local employers and lower-wage workers on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Continue reading Somerville Workers and Small Employers Invited to Attend Employment-Based Residency Information Session →

“Grazin’ in the grass is a gas, can you dig it?”. I saw this family a few times but chose to pause and take a photo on my way home. So remnant were these big birds of the past song in a heat wave!! Hope you are cool. Continue reading News ’bout Town by Medford Resident Sharon Deyeso →

Obituary:

Marina (Centofanti) Monteiro
7/19/2024

Marina (Centofanti) Monteiro, age 53, of Tewksbury passed away on Friday, July 19th, at Lahey Clinic Medical Center of Burlington. Raised and educated in Somerville, she was the daughter of Eva (DiCenso) Centofanti and the late Giuseppe Centofanti. Marina moved to Tewksbury almost 20 years ago. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marina (Centofanti) Monteiro →

Obituary
Nancy W. (Campbell) Bolton, age 75, of Wilmington, MA, passed away in the early hours of July 14th, 2024, due to complications from Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD).
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nancy W Bolton →

Obituary
Cooper, Catherine Lisa- It is with great sadness that Catherine, affectionately known as Katie, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was 24.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Catherine L. “Katie” Cooper →

Obituary
Kevin Joseph O’Brien, of Medford, passed away on July 12, 2024, he was 66.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kevin J. O’Brien →

Obituary
Matthew L. Scullari- Of Stoneham, formerly of Wilmington, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024. He was 33 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Matthew L. Scullari →

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

This photo was taken tonight at 9:15 across from Dickerman Park. No lights. Not safe to walk thru the drug addicts set up!

Hey Billy, just wanted to give you a heads up on something. There are homeless drug addicts living at Dickerman Park on Craigie Street. I called the city, they were basically appalled that I called. They actually sighed at me when I said they should not be in there especially with needles with children. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Discarded Needles, Human Feces, Homeless & Drug Addicts Taking Over Dickerman Park on Craigie St Somerville →

Dear Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,

I am deeply concerned of what’s going on at the Southern Middlesex Registry of Deeds of Middlesex County that’s located in Cambridge MA under the current registrar Maria Curtatone. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Current Registrar Maria Curtatone Has Been In Office There for Over 12 Years and Has NOT Accomplished a Thing →

Click on link below to read July 16th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online July 16th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading July 16th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

Last week marked the 1-year anniversary of a bill signed into law in 2023 that allows undocumented/illegal immigrants to apply for a learner’s permit and Massachusetts standard driver’s license. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Broadway– By The Numbers Edition →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would require the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to annually report on progress made toward Title IX compliance in its recreational facilities across the state. Title IX of the federal Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits sex and gender discrimination in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.
Continue reading EQUAL ACCOMMODATION IN PUBLIC RECREATIONAL FACILITIES (H 923) →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill that supporters say would streamline the process for foreign-trained dentists to obtain a dental hygienist license in the Bay State. These dentists would have to have at least five years of experience as a dentist in their country and must have obtained a certificate of registration, certifying them as a dentist, from their country’s board of dental examiners or similar board. Continue reading REDUCE THE SHORTAGE OF DENTAL HYGIENISTS (H 4842) →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would restore the ability of disabled seniors to receive support from special needs pooled trusts for care and needs that are not covered by MassHealth. Sponsor Rep. Kate Hogan (D-Stow) said she filed the legislation in response to a new MassHealth regulation that eliminated this support for seniors.
Continue reading PRESERVE SPECIAL NEEDS TRUSTS FOR DISABLED SENIORS (H 4841) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 31-9, approved an amendment that would raise from 17 to 18 the age at which a person can be tried as a juvenile. The hike would apply to many crimes for which 18-year-olds would be tried as juveniles instead of as adults.
Continue reading JUVENILE JUSTICE AGE (S 2856) →

Bob Katzen

The Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment that would reduce the short term capital gains tax from 8.5 percent to 5 percent over a three year period from 2025 to 2027.
Continue reading REDUCE SHORT-TERM CAPITAL GAINS TAX (S 2856) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved a $2.86 billion economic development package that supporters say would make bold investments in life sciences, climate tech, AI and small businesses, building on Massachusetts’ national leadership and creating an environment where businesses and workers thrive.
Continue reading $2.86 BILLION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PACKAGE (S 2856) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 159-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would prohibit the sale of cellphone data collected during an individual’s visit to Massachusetts health care facilities that offer reproductive and gender affirming care. Currently, data brokers are allowed to sell data that tracks the location of cellphone users.
Continue reading PROTECT PRIVACY OF PEOPLE SEEKING REPRODUCTIVE AND GENDER AFFIRMING CARE (H 4844) →

Connect with the Mayor, city officials, and neighbors over free pizza, refreshments, and kids’
activities at Trum Field playground

SOMERVILLE- Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 5 Councilor Naima Sait, and the City Council invite Somerville Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne and City Council Invite Community Members to the Ward 5 “Slice of the City” Meet-Up Event →

Application Period Closes at 5 p.m. on Thursday, August 1, 2024

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) are pleased to announce that applications are currently being accepted for nine (9) income-restricted apartments at The Guild, located at 154 Broadway. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Thursday, August 1. Continue reading Applications Now Open for Nine Income-Restricted Apartments at 154 Broadway, Somerville →

[photo credit: Michael Nosal]

NINETEENTH ANNUAL
Festival of Activist Street Bands
SAVE THE DATES October 4-6, 2024
(rain or shine) primarily based in
the vicinity of Davis Square, Somerville
and Harvard Square, Cambridge
FREE AND OPEN TO ALL

(Somerville & Cambridge, MA) By early September, the wheels will be set in full motion for HONK! Festival 2024, this year to be held from October 4-6, with HONK! outdoor band concerts held throughout Davis Square and nearby neighborhoods on that Friday thru Saturday. Continue reading HONK! Festival 2024: 19th annual — save the dates, October 4-6, 2024 →

Obituary

BURKE, Ellen L. (Cushman) – of Londonderry, NH formerly of Charlestown July 8, 2024. Beloved wife of 56 years to Patrick “Paddy” Burke.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ellen L. Burke →

Continue reading BEACON ENERGY SOLUTIONS →

Obituary

Adams, Robert E. – Of Rindge, NH formerly of Somerville, Providence, RI and Florida. passed away on July 1, 2024. He was 75.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert E Adams →

Somerville’s debut ‘Slice of the City’ meet-up series wraps up with an event in Ward 5 on Monday, July 22, at Trum Field playground (1 Franey Rd. at Cedar St.) from 5 to 7 p.m.
Continue reading Join the Ward 5 ‘Slice of the City’ Event on July 22 →

$360 Million Budget Additionally Delivers on City’s Ongoing Commitment to Social Progress and Helping Most Vulnerable Community Members

SOMERVILLE – On June 20, 2024, the Somerville City Council passed the Ballantyne administration’s proposed $360 million Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) budget, delivering on Mayor Katjana Ballantyne’s key investments in schools, City services, and workforce equity.

“Through the FY25 budget, we’re sustaining the historic investments of the past two years while affirming our resources and dedicated staff can continue driving our community forward,” said Mayor Ballantyne. “I’m grateful for the invaluable support of our City Council. Along with all of our fantastic public servants, I’m ready roll up my sleeves and get to work implementing our new budget.”

Highlights of the FY25 budget include:
More than 36 new, net full-time-equivalent positions for Somerville Public Schools
Funding for union contracts, closing gender gaps, and ensuring fair and competitive wages for City workers.
New City staff positions to help better meet the needs our communities. Newly funded roles include:
Homelessness Coordinator, to address issues impacting Somerville’s unhoused residents.
Wage Theft Coordinator, a role championed by the City Council to help ensure local workers are fully compensated.
Civilian Crossing Guard Supervisor, to support safe routes to school.
A robust array of programming and service initiatives to help protect our residents’ health, safety and well-being including:
Outfit and staffing of new Assembly Row fire station.
A curbside composting pilot to advance climate action goals for energy efficient waste management (funded off budget).
A transition away from rodenticide in City and School buildings to safer approaches to rodent control.
Additional funding for the Affordable Housing Fund (AHTF): $3.3M addition to the fund bringing its total to nearly $30M.

The final budget was passed with minor changes to the Mayor’s May 30, 2024, proposal. To read more about the City of Somerville’s FY25 budget, please visit somervillema.gov/budget

WOBURN – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Cambridge, Medford and Somerville Police Departments have announced ongoing investigations into six separate shootings that have occurred in these communities since June 10, 2024.
Continue reading Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, Cambridge, Medford and Somerville Police Investigating Multiple Shootings, Seeking Information →

I’m a former victim and I could’ve been a statistic! 🙏

My thoughts and opinion of the Trump assassination attempt:

For the past five years since I first ran and announced that I was running for mayor of Somerville, I had six assassination threats. Four were from crackpots, one was from an official former assistant Middlesex County District Attorney who admitted his actions to law enforcement who went stray and one was from somebody who pleaded guilty to the Middlesex County District Attorney of all charges who is going on trial in late July coming up. It’s all public record. Continue reading William Tauro: I’m a former victim and I could’ve been a statistic! →

By William Tauro

Please read this email below that was sent to all city employees regarding what Somerville DPW Commissioner Jill Lathan wrote in support of our members at the DPW. Also see the Photo on the windows of DPW Commissioner Jill Lathan who recognizes and understands that there is a big problem in Somerville.

Please read this email that DPW Commissioner wrote in support of our members at the DPW.

Also see the Photo on the windows of DPW Commissioner Jill Lathan.

Dear Members,

Subject: Critical Mass

I wanted to forward this over to you so see that Jill is incredibly supportive and furious over the lack of support for the DPW workers.
Continue reading Email Support from DPW Commissioner Jill Lathan →

By William Tauro

This is the same lady that our Somerville mayor wants to make Chief Administrative Officer aka CAO for the amount of $185,466 per year who lives in Rhode Island, and who will be working remotely from Rhode Island on your dime, who is also a candidate for state senate in Rhode Island! She has already started her job since April and we are paying for it!

Your thoughts?

Lammis Vargas announces bid for State Senate District 28 Continue reading Somerville Unethically Hires Out of State Political Candidate for City Administrator Position →

Click on link below to read July 9th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online July 9th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading July 9th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“These projects are a direct result of the governor’s tax relief bill. Our vacancy rate is at an all-time low, and these awards will create much needed multi-family housing across our state.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would ban non-emergency aircraft from practicing training maneuvers, including simulated landings, practice approaches, turns about a point and power off turns, within a two nautical mile vicinity of a hospital with a helipad. Aircraft would be allowed to fly directly over the helipad as long as they are not performing these maneuvers and are flying at an altitude of over 2,000 feet.
Continue reading HOSPITAL HELIPADS (H 2400) →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would allow companies to send customers an electronic delivery receipt for the bulk sale of fuel oils and propane.
Continue reading ALLOW ELECTRONIC RECEIPT FOR DELIVERY OF FUEL OILS AND PROPANE (H 4132) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would require that any candidates for appointment to the position of Fire Chief, Fire Commissioner or head of a fire department in any city or town, must have been a uniformed member of the Massachusetts firefighting force of a Massachusetts Fire Department for a minimum of five years.
Continue reading FIRE CHIEF MUST BE A FORMER FIREFIGHTER (H 2347) →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would allow condominium assocation boards to hold meetings virtually and vote on issues electronically.
Continue reading ALLOW VIRTUAL MEETINGS OF CONDO ASSOCIATIONS (H 1338) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would require the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs to review existing flood risk mapping resources in the state and assess the need for and feasibility of creating additional flood risk mapping resources to identify areas vulnerable to current and future flooding across the state.
Continue reading FLOOD RISK (S 2829) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 2-38, rejected an amendment that would give the governor’s executive branch the right to procure offshore wind projects without the need to go through the Legislature.
Continue reading OFFSHORE WIND (S 2829) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 1-39, rejected an amendment that would force transportation fuel providers to comply with new clean fuel standards set by the Department of Energy Resources. The amendment would create a credit system to penalize providers who do not meet those standards. Collected credits from public entities will be used to fund projects aimed at clean energy and transportation projects that disadvantaged communities need. Continue reading CLEAN FUEL STANDARDS (S 2829) →

SOMERVILLE–The Somerville
Mobile Farmers Market is gearing up for the 2024 season selling fresh produce across the city on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, July 11 through October 26. All produce is sourced from local farms and priced low to make healthy, fresh foods affordable and accessible to all. The mobile market accepts cash, debit cards, SNAP, Fresh Connect, WIC Farmers Market Coupons, and Senior Farmers Market Coupons. Continue reading Buy Fresh, Affordable Local Produce at the City of Somerville Mobile Farmers Market →

Obituary
KELLEY, Gerald J. – Of Medford, passed away on Saturday, July 6, 2024 He was 89.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Gerald J. Kelley →

Obituary

Maryellen Pieroni, of Arlington, formally Somerville, the daughter of the late John and Catherine
Pieroni, passed away peacefully July 2nd, after a brief illness.

She was predeceased in death by her parents, sister Arlene Pieroni, nephew James Pieroni,
grandniece Olivia Cunningham and grandnephew Jack Cunningham.

Maryellen is survived by her siblings, John of Methuen, Catherine (Peter) Tenneson of Harvard,
Elaine of Methuen, Janice (Vincent) Macone of Stoneham and James (Karen) of Arlington, many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Former longtime employee of New England Telephone-Verizon and BU Medical Center.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the Arthritis Foundation or a charity of your
choice. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Maryellen A. Pieroni →

Medical Equipment Program – Through the generosity of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and from the direction of Mayor Ballantyne, the Council on Aging is now able to provide Durable Medical Equipment at no cost to Somerville residents. Residents with a documented need for medical equipment must be over the age of 60, or have a permanent disability, and must be otherwise unable to afford or access needed medical equipment. We currently have available: Commodes, Bath Benches, Rollator Walkers, Incontinence Supplies and Transport Wheelchairs (wheelchairs are intended for transport and are not self-propelling or self-breaking.) Continue reading Somerville Council on Aging: July Press Outreach 7-1-24 →

Annual Festival Featuring Local crafts, Performances, Children’s Activities, Food & More Returns on Saturday, July 13, from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

SOMERVILLE – Where else except the City of Somerville can you support local artists, sample a global array of food and join a Punk Rock Pollinator Parade? Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council are inviting the community to do all that and more at the City’s annual ArtBeat Festival on Saturday, July 13, from 11 a.m. -10 p.m. in Davis Square (rain date: Sunday, July 14, at the same time).
Continue reading ArtBeat Festival 2024: Celebrating Somerville’s Vibrant Arts Scene and Helping to Protect Our Local Pollinators →

Photos:Vehicle #1: 2023 silver Toyota Prius with black rims, license plate MA 2RGV4

On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at approximately 8:00 pm, the Somerville Police responded to CHA Hospital in Somerville regarding a report of a male who had arrived at the hospital with a gunshot wound to his upper torso. The initial investigation by the Somerville Police Department revealed that the incident took place on a part of East Albion Street in Medford, just over the Somerville line. Continue reading Medford Police Investigating Shooting on June 26 JULY 2, 2024 BY JESSICA WALSH →

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

Mr. Tauro:

The Davis case is literally one of the greatest Civil Rights atrocities in the history of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. However, nobody in State government will right the wrong. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Davis case is literally one of the greatest Civil Rights atrocities in the history of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts →

Assault

24037631: On 6/25/24 at approximately 10:37 AM, Somerville Police responded to a business on Beacon St for report of a past assault. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the two victims who stated they were involved in an argument with a male party inside the store. During the argument, the male suspect brandished a pocketknife. Officers identified the male suspect.

Assault Continue reading Somerville Police Department Crime Log 6/25/24-7/01/24 →

The 2024 Somerville Police Department’s Junior Police Academy officially kicked off this past Monday morning! Continue reading 2024 Somerville Police Department’s Junior Police Academy →

July 10 – July 11 from McGrath Highway to School Street

Following critical utility work, interim paving will support safe travel prior to the full redesign of Highland Avenue

Continue reading First Stretch of Highland Avenue Overnight Paving Takes Place →

USS CONSTITUTION Purple Heart Underway Demonstration Friday, August 9th, 2024 Underway Information: Security will open at 0830 on Friday morning. All guests must board no later than 0930. Please arrive early to allow adequate time for security screening. Continue reading Purple Heart “Underway” on the USS Constitution INVITE August 9th 2024 →

Obituary

Michael “Mike” F. Gaughan, age 77, of Medford, formerly of Somerville, passed away at home on July 2, 2024. Michael was the beloved husband of Elaine (Rizzo) Gaughan with whom he shared 38 wonderful years of marriage. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Michael F. Gaughan →

Welcome back to the DILBOY NEWS. It’s been a long time since “The Post” has had a newsletter. We hope this newsletter will once again become a regular means of communication for all our members, including the Auxiliary. Continue reading DILBOY NEWS GEORGE DILBOY VFW Post #529 →

On Thursday, July 4, 2024, at approximately 11 am, the Medford Emergency Communications Center received a call from an employee at DICK’s Sporting Goods (3850 Mystic Valley Parkway) reporting a shoplifting incident that had just occurred. Continue reading MEDFORD POLICE DEPARTMENT PRESS RELEASE →

Click on link below to read July 2nd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online July 2nd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Continue reading July 2nd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Continue reading Register on Eventbrite: Jimmy Fund Benefit at Ted Williams Camp →

Continue reading PAUL DONATO Leadership with Results →

By Bob Katzen

“Ensuring every veteran receives the proper status and respect they deserve is a top priority of the Executive Office of Veterans Services. The injustices faced by LGBTQ+ service members are a stain on our history that we are committed to erasing. Massachusetts is leading the way when it comes to supporting our veterans and this initiative is a crucial step to healing past wounds and fostering a more inclusive military community.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would prohibit any car carriers delivering cars to a dealership from parking on a public street or highway. A car carrier operator who violates this law would be subject to a $250 fine and potential license suspension. The carrier company is also subject to forfeiting its carrying permit.
Continue reading DELIVERING CARS TO DEALERSHIPS (H 3472) →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would require all public schools with grades 6 to 12, and all public and private colleges to include on their student identification cards the telephone and text number for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The bill includes a provision that allows any schools and colleges which have a supply of old ID cards without the 988 line to continue to distribute those IDS until the supply is gone.
Continue reading REQUIRE SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE INFO ON STUDENT IDS (H 1999) →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a proposal that would make it a crime for a doctor or other medical professional to commit sexual contact with a patient even when the doctor claims the contact is necessary for a legitimate medical purpose.
Continue reading SEXUAL ASSAULT BY FRAUD (H 4350) →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would allow cities and towns to require the installation of an automatic sprinkler system in every newly-constructed 1- or 2-family home.
Continue reading REQUIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS (H 2289) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that requires the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to implement regulations that secure a homebuyer’s right to have an inspection done on a property before finalizing the purchase of the home. The regulation bans the conditioning of a sale on waiving or limiting the buyer’s right to inspect the home.
Continue reading HOME INSPECTIONS (S 2834) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 6-34, rejected an amendment that would require the Department of Housing and Community Development to develop and promulgate regulations allowing a city or town affected by the zoning provisions of the MBTA Communities Act to appeal for relief from those provisions. Any appeal would have to be based on at least one of the following criteria: the community’s inability to meet the drinking water supply or wastewater requirements necessary to support the housing units authorized by the law’s zoning provisions; the inability of municipal transportation infrastructure to safely accommodate the increased population attributable to this housing development; any adverse environmental impacts attributable to the development of housing units under this act; and any adverse impacts on historic properties. Continue reading APPEAL MBTA COMMUNITIES ACT (S 2834) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved a housing bill that would authorize $5.4 billion in borrowing to spur housing production in the Bay State. Supporters said the package makes crucial policy changes with the goal of building new housing, accelerating the rehabilitation of existing housing, reducing barriers to development and promoting affordable housing.
Continue reading HOUSING (S 2834) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 1-38, rejected an amendment that would create a $1 billion Clean Energy and Climate Action Fund to be administered by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Technology Center, which would distribute funds to efficient retrofits and upgrades that fit into the state’s commitment to reducing emissions from the built environment.
Continue reading $1 BILLION CLEAN ENERGY AND CLIMATE ACTION FUND (S 2829) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 38-2, approved and sent to the House climate legislation that supporters say will make systemic changes to the state’s clean energy infrastructure that will help the state achieve its net zero emissions by 2050 goals. They say it will also expand electric vehicle use and infrastructure and protect residents and ratepayers.
Continue reading CLEAN ENERGY (S 2829) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-2, approved and sent to the Senate a $3.4 billion economic development package that supporters said includes an array of investments and policy initiatives that aim to bolster support for workers and businesses, particularly in the life sciences, clean energy technology and manufacturing industries, while retaining a larger focus on making Massachusetts more affordable and competitive.
Continue reading $3.4 BILLION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PACKAGE (H 4789) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 154-0, approved and sent to the Senate a measure that would prohibit cities and towns that foreclose on properties on which the owner owes back property taxes, from keeping all of the profits when the city or town sells the property at auction. Current Massachusetts law allows this practice. The bill would allow the city or town to keep only the amount owed in back taxes and send the remainder to the owner.
Continue reading BAN HOME EQUITY THEFT (H 4791) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 153-1, approved and sent to the Senate a $540 million fiscal 2024 supplemental budget to close out the books for fiscal year 2024. Provisions include millions of dollars in funding for 18 collective bargaining agreements; $26.5 million for cities and towns to prepare for and celebrate in 2026 the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution; $5.5 million for tax abatements for veterans, widows, blind persons and the elderly; and $29.6 million for Income-Eligible Child Care; $2.1 million for Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Services.
Continue reading $540 MILLON FISCAL 2024 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 4790) →

Free Activities for All Ages and Abilities Planned Throughout July

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Commission for Persons With Disabilities (SCPD) are announcing a series of events throughout July to recognize and celebrate Disability Pride Month. Continue reading City of Somerville Honoring 2024 Disability Pride Month →

Obituary
Kevin Sheridan O’Brien died on June 25, 2024 in Orlando, Florida.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kevin Sheridan O’Brien →

“It was a Win, Win Night!”

Each year many cities gather their Charity Clubs for a Communal Night….Eat, meet, chat, review events and ideas, and eagerly await raffles! This year all met at great Ho Win Palace.
Continue reading Medford News ’bout Town →

Obituary
MEDEIROS, William A. “Willie” – Born and raised in Somerville and a lifelong resident, June 26, 2024. Beloved Son of the late Robert and Elizabeth Medeiros.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William “Willie” A. Medeiros →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development Continue reading City of Somerville Announcing Resale of One (1) Affordable Home Ownership Opportunity at 9 Avon Place →

Obituary
Judge, Patricia T. – Of New Bern, NC formerly of Somerville, passed away at home surrounded by family on Friday, June 21, 2024. She was 65 years of age.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia T. Judge →

Community Encouraged to Ask Questions and Share Feedback on Current Version of the Neighborhood Plan
Continue reading Somerville Invited to Brickbottom Neighborhood Plan Public Meeting on Monday, July 8 →

Obituary
Kelly, Joyce E. “Ginger” (Crowley)- Of Somerville, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, June 24, 2024. She was 89 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joyce E. “Ginger” Kelly →

Obituary
James C. O’Donnell, DMD of Andover, MA and formerly of Higham, MA and N. Woodstock, NH, passed away on June 23, 2024. Jim was predeceased by his wife Eleanor (Doyle) O’Donnell.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James C. O’Donnell, DMD →

Obituary
Patricia O’Neil, born, raised, and educated in Somerville, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2024, at the age of 76. She was the cherished daughter of the late Hugh W. and Catherine (McGlinchey) O’Neil.

Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia O’Neil →

Obituary
Trahan, Marie E. – Of North Chelmsford, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, June 22nd. She was 80 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marie E. Trahan →

Hello Medford Friends and Families, I am sending this message because my City Council Colleagues and our City Administration have left me no choice but to file with the Attorney General’s Office and The State Auditor’s Office. It has been very difficult to get answers that our citizens have been asking. Continue reading Letter From George Scarpelli Medford City Council →

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

Some kid last night after the fireworks threw an iced Dunkin’ Donuts cup right through a screen window on the second floor. I went downstairs, but they were gone. No neighbors outside on their steps said anything. I have the dunks order number. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Iced Dunkin Donuts Cup Thrown Through Window After Somerville Fireworks →

Photo by John Alan Roderick

By William Tauro

At about 8 PM on Wednesday night, a medium colored sedan pulled up in front of the rear of the old Somerville Hospital located at 33 Tower Street. Two black males exited the vehicle then immediately the passenger collapsed to the ground wearing a bloody T-shirt, an apparent victim of a shooting. Continue reading Shooting Victim Transported From Somerville →

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

An older friend told me a story today. I asked her if I could write her story as a public service announcement. She agreed so here it is.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: High-Tech Phone Scams →

Click on link below to read June 25th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 25th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading June 25th, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“The clerk will modify the members and tell them that a roll call is in progress.”
—The closed captioning words that appeared on the screen of the live coverage online of the House of Representatives when the speaker announced, “The clerk will NOTIFY the members and tell them that a roll call is in progress.”
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would require that cities and towns include a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) element in their master plans. Sponsors say that TDM studies policies aimed at giving people effective, reliable transportation options, often by spreading travel across modes, locations, routes and times of day. Continue reading CITIES AND TOWNS (H 3396) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to another Xiarhos proposal that would expand Nero’s Law, passed in 2022, that requires EMS personnel to provide basic emergency treatment to a police dog and use an ambulance to transport the dog injured in the line of duty to a veterinary clinic or veterinary hospital, Continue reading EXPAND NERO’S LAW (H 2423) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that would require superintendents of medium- and maximum-security prisons to block inmates from accessing free weights or any other exercise equipment that is not secured.
Continue reading FREE WEIGHTS IN PRISONS (H 2422) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would amend current law which imposes a fine between $10 and $100 on anyone convicted of illegal possession or use of fireworks. The bill would increase the penalty, in areas with a population density of 1,000 or more persons per square mile, to a fine of between $200 and $500 and/or a prison sentence or up to six months. Continue reading ILLEGAL FIREWORKS (H 3634) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would require all new automobiles sold in the state after January 1, 2026 to be equipped with adaptive beam headlight technology which is currently used in other parts of the world including Europe, China and Canada.
Continue reading REQUIRE ADAPTIVE BEAM HEADLIGHT TECHNOLOGY (H 3419) →