Mayor Ballantyne and City staff are gearing up for Somerville’s second annual Civic Day! Come learn about City services, local government, and enjoy free activities, food, and entertainment next Saturday, April 27, from noon to 4 p.m. at City Hall (93 Highland Ave.) and on the City Hall concourse. Continue reading Reminder: Join the Fun at Somerville’s Civic Day Celebration on April 27 SomerViva staff at Civic Day →

Obituary

Laura C. Rothberg, nee Laura Gail Clayman, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, April 17, 2024, aged 88, following a two year battle with non-smokers’ lung cancer. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Laura C. Rothberg →

Obituary

Born and raised in Ganthier, Haiti. She was the daughter of the late Lemond and Emelia (Pierre) Meus. Marie was a family woman, she loved to spend time with her family, especially her beloved son Alvin. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marie J. Meus →

Obituary

Garcia, Andrea D.- Of Lynn, passed away after a brief illness surrounded by her loving family on Friday, April 19, 2024. She was 30 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Andrea D. Garcia →

Connect with Mayor, City Officials, and Neighbors Over Free Pizza, Refreshments, and Kids’ Activities in a Somerville Park Near You
Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne and the City Council Invite Somervillians to New “Slice of the City” Spring Meet-Up Series →

Community Encouraged to Sign Up as Volunteers and Parade Participants

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services are announcing
that Somerville’s Memorial Day parade will be held on Sunday, May 26. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announcing 2024 Somerville Memorial Day Parade and Remembrance Ceremony →

Residents, community members invited to attend and share feedback to help select Somerville’s next Chief of Police
Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announcing Public Interviews for Somerville Police Chief Candidates →

Greetings!

On behalf of the City of Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services, we invite your organization in joining us for this year’s Memorial Day Parade to Honor and Remember our Fallen Heroes.
Continue reading Somerville Memorial Day Parade →

My promise if elected your Registrar of Deeds for Southern Middlesex County is to immediately prioritizing and restoring integrity to the registry and prioritizing respect, dignity, transparency, and efficiency are indeed fundamental principles of my campaign. Addressing the existing years of backlog and ensuring proper, safe, and correct procedures are not only vital for the functioning of the registry but also for upholding public trust. Continue reading Elect William Tauro Registrar of Deeds for Southern Middlesex County →

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

Hi Billy

Can you please put this In the paper. This is Roger Dearochers grandson he runs Somervill Pop Warner Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Let’s Make This Happen →

Hello Classmates:
 
Ticket for our 50th Reunion are on sale now.  If you are interested in attending please mail your check payable to SHS Class of 1974 and mail to:
  Continue reading SHS Class of 1974 50th Reunion →

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

This is Russell Road and Ware Street and probably the other surrounding side streets that all have signs posted but no workers. This is also the street where our absentee mayor lives on Russell Road and this is all happening right under her nose. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville No Show Jobs In Action →

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

By Bob Katzen

“We are grateful for the many Department of Mental Health (DMH) providers who provide compassionate care for individuals experiencing serious and persistent mental illness each day. The MA Repay program is a way to show our gratitude and commitment to the work that people are doing day after day.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that would make the song “Massachusetts” the state’s official jazz song. Continue reading OFFICIAL STATE JAZZ SONG (H 3105) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill which would lower the current flat 16 percent interest rate on property taxes that are deferred under the Senior Citizen Property Tax Deferral Program, which defers payment until the senior sells the property or passes away. Continue reading LOWER INTEREST RATE ON PROPERTY TAXES DEFERRED BY SENIORS (H 2919) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would require gas and electric companies to contact landlords within 14 days of a tenant’s bill becoming past due. Continue reading MUST NOTIFY OWNER OF GAS OR ELECTRIC SHUTOFFS (H 1370) →

By Bob Katzen

The state announced the implementation of the “Blue Envelope Program,” designed to improve interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder during traffic stops. Continue reading TRAFFIC STOPS FOR PERSONS WITH AUTISM →

By Bob Katzen

The House fired the second shot in the long battle over the state budget for fiscal year 2025 that begins on July 1. Gov. Maura Healey fired the opening volley in January when she filed her version of the spending package. The House Ways and Means Committee last week unveiled its own $57.9 billion version. Continue reading HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE PROPOSES $57.9 BILLION FISCAL 2025 STATE BUDGET →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0. approved a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. Continue reading $375 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 4529) →

ARPA funded grants to support small businesses during their startup year when costs and challenges
are high

Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announces “New Small Business Vitality” Grant Program →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville’s Inspectional Services Department are proud to announce Somerville’s 2024 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan, a comprehensive strategy crafted through collaborative efforts between various city departments and community stakeholders. Continue reading Mayor Katjana Ballantyne Announcing 2024 Integrated Pest Management Plan to Combat Rodent Issues →

Obituary
Saint Jean, Darling- Of Dorchester, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Darling Saint Jean →

Obituary
Cappello, Norman C. – Of Moody, Maine formerly of Somerville and Medford passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024. He was 89. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Norman C. Cappello →

Obituary
Kawashima, Sue Atsuko (Nagahama) – Of Cambridge, passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. She was 95 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Sue Atsuko Kawashima →

Obituary
SHEPPARD, Ruth A. (Melley) Of Billerica formerly of Somerville April 11, 2024. Complete notice to follow.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ruth A. Sheppard →

COADY, William “Lee” – Of Somerville April 12, 2024. Complete notice to follow Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William “Lee” Coady →

Six new Firefighters were appointed to the Somerville Fire Department at the April 11th City Council Meeting. Continue reading New Somerville Firefighters and Promotion →

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

Hi Billy. I thought you might want to post this anonymously. In January rats made a home in my car engine and caused $7,000 in damage to engine and wiring. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Two Legged Rats at City Hall Defending Four Legged Rats On City Streets →

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

By Bob Katzen

“Our administration is deeply committed not only to preventing overdoses in our state, but also providing the incredible organizations doing the work in communities with the tools they need to improve health outcomes and save lives. By investing in these diverse organizations now, we are laying the foundation for them to have the resources they need to address the overdose crisis appropriately and quickly in the future.”
—Gov. Maura Healey announcing the awarding of $2.9 million to 20 organizations led by Black, Indigenous and people of color to address substance use in the communities they serve, which continue to be disproportionately impacted by increases in overdoses. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initital approval to legislation that would double fines for motor vehicles speeding in the far-right lane, or “breakdown” lane in areas where travel in that lane is permitted during peak commuting hours.
Continue reading USE OF BREAKDOWN LANE (H 3370) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would prohibit anyone driving a diesel-powered vehicle from releasing significant quantities of soot, smoke or other particular emissions that obstruct or obscure another driver’s view of the roadway. The measure also bans anyone from retrofitting a diesel-powered vehicle with a device, smokestack or other equipment that enhances the vehicle’s capacity to emit these pollutants. Violators would be fined from $100 to $1,000. Continue reading BAN COAL ROLLING (H 1698) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would allow cities and towns to restrict two parking spaces in off street parking lots, large retail parking lots and parking garages to parking for veterans only – as long as the lot has more than 1,000 parking spaces. Continue reading FREE PARKING FOR VETERANS (H 3533) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that adds a 7-day license suspension to the current $250 fine for not stopping for a school bus with flashing lights as children get on and off the bus. Continue reading INCREASE PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO STOP FOR A SCHOOL BUS →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would amend a four-decade old law that requires an amber dome light and the flashing orange lights on the back of ice cream trucks when the truck is parked and serving ice cream. The bill would provide that the law be enforced and would impose a $50 fine for failure to have the lights. It would also require that the operation of the lights be included as part of the truck’s annual inspection. Continue reading ICE CREAM TRUCKS (H 3471) →

By Bob Katzen

The Governor’s Council unanimously approved Gov. Maura Healey’s executive order that pardons misdemeanor marijuana possession convictions that occurred in Massachusetts before March 14, 2024. The pardons will apply to thousands of people who were convicted of the offense which is no longer an offense. The Bay State decriminalized marijuana possession in 2008 and then legalized it on a ballot question in 2016. Continue reading GOVERNOR’S COUNCIL APPROVES GOV. HEALEY’S PARDON OF MISDEMEANOR MARIJUANA POSSESSION →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-0. approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would modernize and remove archaic language in state laws to reflect the evolution of terminology relating to persons with disabilities. Continue reading CHANGE ARCHAIC LANGUAGE REFERRING TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (H 4396) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-0. approved and sent to the Senate a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. The $375 million package, a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds, also includes $175 million for several transportation-related grant programs. Continue reading $375 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 4529) →

SOMERVILLE – Applications are now open for the City of Somerville Mayor’s Summer Jobs Program. Mayor Katjana Ballantyne encourages all interested local teens to apply. Interested teens can apply online now at
somervillema.gov/summerjobs. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Invites Local Teens to Apply for Mayor’s 2024 Summer Jobs Program →

Starting Monday morning, April 8, sidewalk detours between Third Street and Rufo Road

CAMBRIDGE/SOMERVILLE – The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing daytime construction operations for concrete sidewalk repairs on Route 28 (McGrath Highway) southbound in Cambridge and Somerville between Third Street and Rufo Road. Detours will start Monday, April 8 at 6:30 a.m. and
remain in place for approximately one month.

Continue reading Route 28 (McGrath Highway) Sidewalk Closure and Detours →

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

Well, it was crowded, heckled (not the best defense) and vocal at the podium as appx 100 congregated again at City Council. On Tuesday night, it seemed two issues caused reactions from the public, seemingly mostly taxpayers. One Councilwoman, Anna Callahan, had Agenda 24-059 – trying to create a conversation (beginning a bad end in sheep’s clothing) titled “Resolution to Create a Rental Registry” …..the City “has climate sustainability affordable housing, and other goals that would be easier to accomplish if we could reach either renters or landlords in our city, and…” Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: More of “As the City of Medford Turns” →

Virtual Meeting to Offer Project Overview and Collect Neighborhood Feedback

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 4 Councilor Jesse Clingan, and City staff invite you to join a virtual community meeting to learn about flood relief and water quality improvement efforts planned for Winter Hill, Ten Hills, and the surrounding neighborhood.
Continue reading Join the Mystic River Outfall and Sewer Separation Community Meeting on April 24 →

Trash, Recycling, and Yard Waste Pickup on one-day delay all week due to Patriot’s Day Holiday
on Monday

SOMERVILLE–Somerville’s yard waste pickup begins for the season the week of April 15th. That week’s Continue reading Curbside Yard Waste Pickup Resumes Week of April 15 in Somerville →

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

I really hate this Mayor so I just got a water bill in the mail. They replaced the water meters and they’re charging us $2,000 for them. Is this normal did you get the same bill in the mail?
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Why Is My Water Bill So High? →

Photos provided by Somerville Firefighters Local 76

By William Tauro

Sadly shortly after nearly one month ago celebrating William F. Griffiths’s 100th Birthday, he is being laid to rest!

Retired Somerville Firefighter William Griffiths “Bill” retired in 1982 and was a proud member of Engine Company 2 running out of the Cross Street Firehouse then moving with the company to open their “new” quarters at Headquarters on Broadway.
Continue reading SOMERVILLE/MEDFORD REMEMBERING RETIRED SOMERVILLE FIREFIGHTER WILLIAM F. GRIFFITHS →

Click on link below to read April 2nd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 2nd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading April 2nd, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“It might be a gray, rainy week, but progress on updating the state’s Bottle Bill is a ray of sunshine for everyone who wants to reduce litter and waste.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

This bill 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. Continue reading SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE ON STUDENT IDS (H 1999) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would require that American Sign Language (ASL) be taught in all Bay State public elementary and secondary schools to increase interactions between hearing persons and deaf and hard-of-hearing persons, as well as children with autism. Current law allows but does not require schools to teach ASL. Continue reading AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (H 466) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would allow voters who will turn 18 and be eligible to vote in a November general election to also vote in the preceding primary election even though they will only be 17 at the time of the primary election.
Continue reading ALLOW SOME 17-YEAR OLDS TO VOTE IN PRIMARIES (H 705) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would allow minors who are 12- and 13-years-old to referee youth soccer games for matches in which the age bracket of the players is younger than the 12- or 13-year-old referee.
Continue reading ALLOW YOUNGER YOUTH SOCCER REFEREES (H 1852) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill provides free transportation on the MBTA system for veterans who travel to or from a Veterans Administration hospital for medical care. Continue reading FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FOR VETERANS WHO ARE GOING TO MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS (H 3527) →

By Bob Katzen

This bill amends current law which allows municipalities to give stipends to assessors who receive their Certified Assessment Evaluator certificate from the International Association of Continue reading CITY AND TOWN ASSESSORS (H 2112) →

By Bob Katzen

The senate 40-0, approved and sent to the House legislation that would create a public database of violations of the state’s fire prevention laws and a public notification system to alert workers of violations.
Continue reading SAFETY FOR FIREFIGHTERS (S 2712) →

By Bob Katzen

The senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would make some changes in the current state laws about debt collection practices.
Continue reading DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES (S 2713) →

Open House Will Showcase Proposed Street Safety Improvements and Collect Neighborhood Feedback

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 7 Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld, and the City of Somerville Office of Mobility are inviting the community to an open house to discuss proposed new designs for Broadway between Clarendon Avenue and Alewife Brook Parkway. The event will be held on Saturday, April 13, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the West Somerville Neighborhood School (177 Powder House Blvd).  Continue reading Mayor Katjana Ballantyne Invites Community to Join the West Broadway Reconstruction Open House on Saturday, April 13 →

Members of Tutti Music Collective, courtesy image
SOMERVILLE, MA Issued February 29, 2024… Tutti Music Collective (TMC) presents its annual spring concert, this season performing “Echoes of Heritage: A Medley of Folk Tunes, New and Traditional,” on Saturday, April 13, 2 pm, at Boynton Yards performance hall, 101 South Street, Somerville. Continue reading Tutti Music Collective Presents “Echoes of Heritage” Folk Music Concert →

Obituary

Gibbons, Timothy- Of Medford, passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Care One in Beverly. He was 83 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Timothy Gibbons →

Week of Events Features Release of Updated Community Climate Action Plan, Bike Clinic, Miyawaki Forest
Tour, and More

All Events Are Free and Family Friendly

Continue reading SustainaVille Week 2024:Celebrate Climate Action in Somerville, April 20-27 →

Obituary

Jeune, Denise S. (Jean Philippe)- Of Medford, passed away on Monday, March 25, 2024. She was 87. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Denise S. Jeune →

Somerville community invited to join celebration with music, food and children’s activities and learn more about Somerville’s community-wide approach to supporting childhood development
Continue reading One Somerville, Every Child: Mayor Ballantyne Invites Somerville to Celebrate the ‘Week of the Young Child’ April 8, 2024 through April 12, 2024 →

Obituary

Representing the “Greatest Generation” with humility, honor and pride William (Bill) F. Griffiths, affectionately known as Bill, a beloved member of the Somerville community, passed away on March 28, 2024, at the age of 100.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William F. Griffiths →

Obituary

Diane M. (Farrell) Doyle, of Boston and formerly of Somerville, passed away suddenly on March 28, 2024, she was 66. Born on Christmas Day, she was the oldest of six children born to the late Joan M. (Cremens) and James R. “Bob” Farrell, Sr.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Diane M. Doyle →

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

Hey William I live in Somerville all my life and I had one my Associates at Home Depot was telling me that the lights under the bridge across Stop & Shop they are not working. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: lights under the bridge across Stop & Shop they are not working →

Click on link below to read March 26th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online March 26th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (2) Continue reading March 26th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Things are different than they were the last time I was here. Last time I was here, we had money. I could be a hero.”
—House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy) at the beginning of his speech to members of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would require all public schools, with grades 6-12 students, to maintain free menstrual products, including sanitary napkins and tampons in restrooms and to make them available in a “convenient manner that does not stigmatize any persons seeking the products.” Continue reading FREE MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS (H 563) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would change some language in the 50-year-old law that created Councils on Aging in local cities and towns. Continue reading CHANGE LANGUAGE IN LAW THAT CREATED COUNCILS ON AGING (H 624) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would require banks and other mortgage lenders to provide additional information on a monthly basis to their borrowers including the balance of principal remaining; a confirmation of the most recent payment received; the balance of any escrow accounts; and a description of any payments from those escrow accounts. Continue reading REQUIRE BANKS AND OTHER MORTGAGE LENDERS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (H 933) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would designate March 10th as COVID-19 Remembrance Day to honor all the people, especially older adults and people with disabilities, who died or were stricken with COVID-19. Continue reading COVID-19 REMEMBRANCE DAY (H 2987) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would prevent condominium associations, neighborhood conservation districts and historic district commissions, from prohibiting or unreasonably restricting owners from installing EV charging equipment in or near an owner’s parking space. Continue reading ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGING STATIONS IN CONDO PARKING SPACES (H 1303) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would require the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, in conjunction with the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, to conduct a safety review of current safety practices and implement recommendations to reduce the risk to human life and safety. Continue reading CONDUCT SAFETY REVIEW (S 2708) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 12-27, rejected an amendment that would require the state take into account an individual’s length of residency in Massachusetts when determining priority in securing emergency shelter. Continue reading TAKE INTO ACCOUNT LENGTH OF RESIDENCY IN BAY STATE (S 2708) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 8-31, rejected an amendment that would require resettlement agencies to consult on a monthly basis with the Governor’s Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to ascertain the projected availability of space in the state’s shelter system. It also prohibits resettlement agencies from undertaking resettlement activity when it is foreseeable that the shelter system will exceed capacity.
Continue reading RESETTLEMENT AGENCIES MUST CONSULT WITH STATE (S 2708) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 32-8, approved a supplemental budget that includes an additional $250 million in funding for the Emergency Assistance Program that funds the emergency family shelter system which houses migrants. Continue reading SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET INCLUDING $250 MILLION FUNDING FOR SHELTERS (S 2708) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved a proposal that would prohibit the posting of sexually explicit images of another person online without their permission— commonly referred to as “revenge porn.” The practice is often used by ex-spouses or ex-partners.
Continue reading REVENGE PORN AND TEEN SEXTING (S 2703) →

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Public Library Board of Trustees is actively seeking one enthusiastic individual to join their ranks, and we welcome applications from all Somerville residents. This is a chance for community members with diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives to contribute their passion for libraries to our vibrant community. Continue reading Join the Somerville Public Library Board of Trustees →

Obituary

Mrs. Doris Mae (Foster) Langone, of Tewksbury and formerly of Somerville, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. She was 91 years young. Born and raised in Somerville she was the daughter of the late Hilda (March) and Harold Foster. Following the sudden passing of her mother Hilda, she was lovingly raised by her cherished aunt Irene (March) Dobson. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Doris Mae Langone →

Obituary

Fowler, Marjorie Rose (Loveless) – Of Somerville, passed away at home on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. She was 92 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marjorie Rose Fowler →

Today, March 21, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released its 2022 Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) National Analysis showing that environmental releases of TRI chemicals from facilities covered by the program were 21% lower in 2022 compared to 2013. This includes a 26% decrease in air releases. During this 10-year period, releases from manufacturing facilities decreased by 9% while the value added to the U.S. economy from manufacturing increased by 14%. While overall releases increased by 1% from 2021 to 2022, there was a 6.5% increase in the number of pollution prevention activities reported under the TRI program compared to 2021. Continue reading Toxic chemical releases have declined 21% in 10 years according to new Toxics Release Inventory data →

East Boston ferry will resume service on April 1, Lynn and Winthrop ferries will resume service on April 29.

Weekend Hingham/Hull/Logan to Boston ferry service will resume for the season Memorial Day weekend. Continue reading MBTA Announces East Boston, Lynn, and Winthrop Ferry Service Resuming This Spring →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Parking Department are reminding all residents that regular street sweeping schedules officially resume Monday, April 1, and will continue through December 31, 2024.
Continue reading Somerville Street Sweeping Resumes Monday, April 1 →

Join Family-Friendly Activities and Games to Learn About Local Government & Services on Saturday, April 27 Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Inviting Somerville Community to Spring Civic Day Celebration →

Continue reading Granddaughter of Somerville’s Eleanor Chute Receives Bronze Medal As Member Of Female Junior Olympic Hockey Team →

This morning at approximately 11 a.m., officers responded to the area of Fellsway West and Sheridan Ave for a report of animal cruelty involving a man who was walking a group of dogs. According to witnesses, the man struck one of the dogs multiple times in the head and then lifted the dog off the ground by its collar in a harmful manner. One witness provided video evidence to the officers, allowing them to identify the suspect. Continue reading Medford Police Respond To Animal Cruelty Call →

*Please Share* CEREBRAL PALSY AWARENESS MONTH DAY 24 (graphic from Firefly + United Cerebral Palsy).
Continue reading CEREBRAL PALSY AWARENESS MONTH DAY 24 →

Mr. Paul Collyer from BA Events, the organizer of last year’s 2023 Somerville Jingle Bell Run & Walk, made a local donation today at the Olde Magoun’s Saloon & Sports Bar located at 518 Medford St, Somerville, MA 02145
Continue reading Somerville Youth Recreation Foundation (SYRF) Receives $2,000 Donation →

Daniel Robert Johnson, of Billerica, Mass., passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at the
too-early age of 54.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel R. Johnson →

The Medford VFW Post 1012 would like to thank Bob from Red Bones for their support on our Saint Patrick’s Day dinner. Continue reading Medford VFW Post 1012 Members Thanks Red Bones →

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

Yes, spirits were down, concerned and angered among the over 100 residents
who attended the March 12 Council Meeting. Why? Basically becauue a Councilor posed an Orfinance that involved a Transfer Fee (a TAX in Councilor sheep clothing) on certain Homeowners.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Whad up Medford? or Down Again? →

Click on link below to read March 19th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online March 19th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading March 19th, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Hosting the inaugural ClimaTech summit is an incredible opportunity to show global climate leaders how Massachusetts is uniquely qualified to be the climate innovation lab for the world. We’re pioneering new industries and developing cutting-edge technologies that will power a healthier future, create high-quality jobs and ensure a sustainable future for our community.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would allow a person with certain eviction records, including no-fault eviction, eviction for non-payment of rent, fault eviction or eviction resulting in dismissal or judgment in favor of the defendant, to petition for the sealing of those records under certain circumstances. Continue reading SEAL EVICTION RECORDS (H 4356) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that amends a current law which provides that a non-profit group lose its civil liability protection if it pays any amount of stipend to a board member. The bill would allow the non-profit to retain its civil liability protection as long as the stipend is not more than $500. Continue reading $500 STIPEND FOR NON-PROFIT BOARD MEMBERS (H 4358) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that imposes a prison sentence of between 90 days and 2.5 years or a fine of between $500 and $5,000 on a person who assaults a transit worker while the transit worker is performing his or her duties. The measure also expands the definition of assault to cover flinging a bodily substance including blood, saliva, mucous, semen, urine or feces. Continue reading ASSAULT A TRANSIT WORKER (H 4355) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that applies the federal law known as the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act to any museums and state agencies that receive state or local funding in the state of Massachusetts. Continue reading NATIVE AMERICAN GRAVES PROTECTION AND REPATRIATION ACT (H 3248) →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would prohibit employers from obtaining the credit reports of existing or potential employees except in certain circumstances including hiring for a position that requires national security clearance; a position for which a person is required by federal or state law to obtain a consumer report; and some executive or managerial positions at a financial institution. Continue reading BAN EMPLOYERS FROM ASKING FOR CREDIT REPORTS (H 1434) →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Healey has issued an executive order that would pardon misdemeanor marijuana possession convictions that occurred in Massachusetts before March 14, 2024. Continue reading GOVERNOR MAURA HEALEY MOVES TO PARDON MISDEMEANOR MARIJUANA POSSESSION →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 7-32, rejected an amendment that would require a study which would make recommendations on employer-supported early education and care benefits, to include possible creation of a tax credit for employers that provide these early education and care benefits to their employees.
Continue reading CONSIDER TAX CREDIT FOR COMPANIES THAT PROVIDE EARLY EDUCATION AND CARE (S 2697) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved and sent to the House a bill aimed at making early education and care money more accessible and affordable for young families across the Bay State. The bill would make high-cost state grants for early education and care providers permanent; increase the income threshold to make more families eligible for childcare subsidies; and establish recommended salary and benefit guidelines for early childhood teachers commensurate with K-12 public school teachers. Continue reading EARLY EDUCATION AND CARE CHANGES (S 2697) →

Program delivering local housing support to help families often underserved by federal and state programs

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne announced today the City of Somerville’s Office of Housing Stability’s (OHS) new Municipal Voucher Program that targets needed local support to families historically underserved by broader government housing programs. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Introduces Innovative Municipal Housing Voucher Program to Increase Housing Stability and Reduce Costs for Vulnerable Families →

Third Annual Event Will Feature Live Music, Games and Free Refreshments

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Ballantyne, the Somerville Commission for Women, Somernova, and the City’s Department Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne and Partners Invite Somerville Community to Women’s History Month Celebration →

Virtual Meeting Will Highlight Initial Design Concepts and Collect Neighborhood
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SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 6 Councilor Lance Davis, and Ward 5 Councilor Naima Sait Continue reading Join the Morrison Avenue Flood Relief & Water Quality Improvements Community Meeting on March 25 →

SOMERVILLE – Are you passionate about contributing to the redevelopment and revitalization of Somerville’s neighborhoods? Consider applying for a position on the Somerville Redevelopment Authority (SRA) Board. The SRA is currently seeking applications for one open board position. The application deadline is April 15, 2024. Continue reading Join the Somerville Redevelopment Authority Board Help Shape the Future of Somerville’s Neighborhoods →

Obituary

Mrs. Gladys C. (Arritola) Gomez, of Medford, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on March 13, 2024 at the age of 84. Born and raised in Havana, Cuba, she was the daughter of the late Concepcion (Pubillones) and Julio Arritola. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Gladys C. (Arritola) Gomez →

Online Survey Now Available for Community to Share Ideas and Priorities for CPA-Funded Projects.
Virtual Public Hearing Will be Held on Wednesday, March 27, starting at 6:30 p.m.
Continue reading Somerville Community Preservation Act Program Seeks Input for Future Projects →

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

On behalf of an all-volunteer community planning committee, we invite you to sponsor Massachusetts’ sixth annual Our Community Salutes High School Enlistee Recognition Ceremony on May 19, 2024 at Gillette Stadium. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Sponsor MA high school seniors enlisting →

Obituary

Lisa “PIXIE” Ferrarini suddenly left our realm on March 11, 2024. The beloved mother of Briahnna and Joey, and Mema to Donminyk. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lisa “PIXIE” Ferrarini →

This week Mayor Katjana Ballantyne announced the Somerville Office of Housing Stability’s (OHS) new Municipal Voucher Program to support Somerville’s most vulnerable families historically underserved by broader government housing programs. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Introduces Innovative Municipal Housing Voucher →

Obituary

Daniel Crawford Hargrove 65 of Cambridge passed away peacefully, March 14, 2024. Dan was the loving husband of Susan (Gray) Hargrove of Somerville and the adoring father of Daniel Hargrove. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel Crawford Hargrove →

Obituary

Regina M. (Murphy) Sullivan, of Medford, passed away on March 16th surrounded by the love of her family, she was 70 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Regina M. (Murphy) Sullivan →

Obituary
LaVoie Huard, Nicole K. – Of Billerica, passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2024. She was 39 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nicole K. LaVoie Huard →

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

Note: This letter was written and then read before the Medford City Council on Tuesday evening, March 12, 2024.

It expresses my thoughts on the state of the city of Medford’s elected city council body and the direction they are taking us.

Thank you!
Anthony D’Antonio Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Medford Residents Speaking Up Against City Council →

Dear Neighbor,

I hope this email reaches you and your family in good health and safety. I wanted to briefly update you about my vote opposing legislation to ban the social media app, TikTok, and share an important new resource during tax filing season.

Banning TikTok is the Wrong Approach
Continue reading My Vote on the TikTok Ban and the IRS’ New Free, Direct Tax-Filing Program →

On Tuesday, March 12, we had the pleasure of meeting Nick and his mother Sheri. Continue reading Somerville Police Department News Updates →

Giusti, Vincent N. “Vinny” of Cambridge, passed away on March 6, 2024, after a long illness at age 63.
Devoted son of Annette (Evangelista) and Primo Giusti.
Loving brother of Dona Maffei and her husband Michael.
Adored uncle of Gianluca Maffei and Ava Maffei.
Also survived by many other loving relatives and numerous friends. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Vincent N. “Vinny” →

Click on link below to read March 12th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online March 12th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading March 12th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Of the 11 restrictions removed during this outage, one was the oldest in the system at over 900 days old. Continue reading MBTA Makes Further Progress on Expedited Critical Track Work on Green Line, Removes 11 Speed Restrictions →

Obituary

Nicole M. Howe, of Taunton, passed away on January 19, 2024, she was 45. Born in Cambridge she was the daughter of the late Jerilyn (Sawdy) and Ralph E. Foster, Jr. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nicole M. Howe →

John Anthony Scileppi, Of Andover, affectionally known as Jake passed away on Sunday, March 11, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. He was 46 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John A. “Jake” Scileppi →

Congratulations to Will Parkes, Ford Christie, Marcus Odilon and Attikos Kaye who placed 22nd in the 1600-meter sprint Continue reading Somerville High School Friends and Family Page News →

By Bob Katzen

By the Numbers Edition

Research by AAA has found that vehicle crashes tend to increase in the days following moving the clocks ahead in the Spring as drivers get behind the wheel while sleep-deprived and with their circadian rhythms out of whack. Studies have outlined the risks associated with drowsy driving: drivers who slept for less than five hours the night before may have a crash risk comparable to driving drunk, and losing just a couple of hours of sleep can double the risk of a crash.
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey announced a $20 million campaign to end veterans’ homelessness in Massachusetts.
Continue reading HEALEY ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES PLAN TO END VETERANS’ HOMELESSNESS →

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) at MassTech announced the launch of the Residential Internet Retrofit Program, a $22 million statewide program that will be used to equip public and affordable housing units across the state with high-speed internet.
Continue reading $22 MILLION TO EXPAND HIGH SPEED INTERNET IN AFFORDABLE HOUSING →