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

FYI further fallout. People buying and selling homes in Medford has ceased. Without a fire chief the personnel in fire prevention cannot sign off on any smoke certificates. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:More Chain Reaction Fallout In Medford With Mayor and Fire Department →

Click on link to read February 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online February 20th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Jimenez, Ana E. (Montero) – Of Somerville, passed away on Friday, February 16th surrounded by her loving family. She was 74. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ana E. Jimenez →

Obituary

Happas, Christopher Of Somerville, passed away after a brief illness on Sunday, February 18, 2023. He was 59 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Christopher Happas →

By Bob Katzen

“Massachusetts has the opportunity to be a global leader in Applied AI – but it’s going to take us bringing together the brightest minds in tech, business, education, health care and government. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

A bill before the Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee would ban the purchase and/or consumption by all Massachusetts consumers and entities of any product made in Russia.
Continue reading BAN ALL PRODUCTS MADE IN RUSSIA (H 343) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would eliminate the current state law requiring that all fortune telling applicants must have lived in the city or town in which they are seeking their license to practice for at least one continuous year prior to filing their application.
Continue reading FORTUNE TELLERS (H 3893) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that makes online sales of cars subject to the same law as if the sales were executed at the dealership’s physical place of business.
Continue reading ONLINE CAR SALES (H 351) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 3-36, rejected an amendment that would maintain the current 90/5/5 law under which 90 percent of the capital gains tax collections exceeding $1 billion goes to the Rainy Day Fund, 5 percent to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund and 5 percent to the State Pension Liability Fund. The amendment would replace a pending 60/20/20 proposal that would send, in fiscal 2024 only, 60 percent of the $1 billion excess to the Rainy Day Fund while sending 20 percent to the State Retiree Benefits Trust Fund and 20 percent to the State Pension Liability Fund.
Continue reading SEND 90 PERCENT OF CAPITAL GAINS TAX REVENUE ABOVE $1 BILLION TO THE RAINY DAY FUND (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment that would remove a section in the budget that exempts tax revenue generated from the recently voter-approved Millionaire Tax from counting toward the allowable state tax revenue limitations, under Chapter 62F, which provides that whenever revenue collections in a fiscal year exceed an annual cap tied to wage and salary growth, the excess is returned to taxpayers. Continue reading TAX REVENUE FROM MILLIONAIRE’S TAX (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 5-33, rejected an amendment that would increase from $1 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 ten years. Continue reading INCREASE ESTATE/DEATH TAX EXEMPTION (S 2397) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 5-32, rejected an amendment that would reduce the short-term capital gains tax from 12 percent to 5 percent.
Continue reading REDUCE SHORT TERM CAPITAL GAINS TAX (S 2397) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 33-5, approved an amendment that would require Massachusetts couples who file income tax returns jointly at the federal level do the same at the state level.
Continue reading FILE TAXES JOINTLY (S 2387) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 38-1, approved a tax relief package that supporters said will provide $561.3 million in tax relief in fiscal year 2024 and $1.02 billion per year in subsequent years.
Continue reading TAX RELIEF PACKAGE (H 4104) →

Obituary

Covino, Jr. James J. – Of Tewksbury, formerly of Somerville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. He was 86. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James J Covino, Jr →

Obituary

Maria Angelina de Freitas Terra Alvernaz, of Medford, Massachusetts, passed away at home surrounded by the love of her family on Ash Wednesday and Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2024, she was a young 95. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Maria Angelina Alvernaz →

Obituary

Ellen J. Maloney, affectionately known as Josie, formerly Healy, a cherished wife, mother, Nana, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 16. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ellen “Josie” Maloney →

Obituary

Austin, David N. “Ozzie” – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully holding his beloved partner Gail’s hand on Thursday, February 15, 2024. He was 69 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering David N. Austin →

Obituary

Hegarty, Paul E. a resident of Peabody and formerly of Cambridge, Arlington and Cape Cod passed away at home peacefully surrounded by his loving family.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Paul E Hegarty →

Obituary

Mecrones, Anne Marie – Of Medford, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 16, 2024 after a courageous battle with dementia. She was 90 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Anne Marie Mecrones →

The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries of Somerville/Medford News Weekly, Boston News Group’s News Publications belong solely to the authors of those commentaries and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville/Medford News Weekly, Mass Publishing and Boston News Group, it’s publications, its staff or publishers.)

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

If I were recently found guilty of a few crimes, awai􏰀ng sentencing that totals a few decades incarcerated, crimes I CLEARLY committed; I would be seeking ANY way to reduce those years to see my loved ones before we all leave the planet. ANYTHING to make that a free me sooner, ANYTHING.
Maybe if I owned a piece of land I would find a way to work the system. A system I had only ever learned to play. I never studied hard or learned the rules, because I never thought they would apply to me or my friends. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Good Friends Playing Musical Chairs, LLC By: Robert L. Peters →

Click on link below to read February 13th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online February 13th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1) Continue reading February 13th, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“Because of a successful vaccination campaign that effectively eliminated measles in the United States in 2000, many people may not be aware that measles, which is transmitted via exposure to contact with airborne droplets, is highly contagious and can lead to serious and life-threatening complications. Children and those with compromised immune systems are especially at risk.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Would prohibit landlords from requiring their tenants to re-sign a lease more than three months in advance of the termination of their current lease.
Continue reading RE-SIGNING LEASES (H 264) →

By Bob Katzen

Would allow cities and towns to permit restaurants that are licensed to serve alcohol to offer discounted prices on alcoholic beverages during dates and time periods specified by the city or town. The measure prohibits any alcohol from being discounted after 10 p.m.
Continue reading REVIVE “HAPPY HOURS” (S 157) →

By Bob Katzen

Would require grocery stores to apply all available digital coupons to the orders of senior citizens over 65, even if the person does not have the digital coupons on their phone.
Continue reading DIGITAL COUPONS FOR SENIORS (H 4154) →

By Bob Katzen

Would restrict telemarketing companies doing business in the state by allowing businesses to sign up for a “Do Not Call” list and fining companies up to $5,000 if they call a business on the list. Current law only allows individual consumers to sign up for the list.
Continue reading ALLOW BUSINESSES TO OPT INTO “DO NOT CALL” LIST (S 202) →

By Bob Katzen

The Public Health Committee’s hearing included legislation that would create the Veteran Breakthrough Treatments Program to support the development and deployment of treatments that have been designated as “breakthrough therapies” for veterans and first responders. Breakthrough Therapy designation is given by the FDA to treatments that clinical evidence has shown to be extremely promising.
Continue reading VETERANS BREAKTHROUGH TREATMENT PROGRAM (H 4218) →

By Bob Katzen
A bill heard by the Higher Education Committee would require public state colleges to provide students and employees with mental health awareness and prevention programming. This would cover vital topics including signs of mental health issues and substance abuse, where to access mental health resources and crisis intervention strategies. Continue reading MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS (H 4142) →

By Bob Katzen

The Committee on Emergency Preparedness and Management held a hearing on a measure that would create an emergency disaster relief program managed by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and funded with $250 million from excess capital gains revenue that would otherwise be transferred to the Rainy Day Fund.
Continue reading CREATE EMERGENCY DISASTER RELIEF PROGRAM (S 2506) →

By Bob Katzen

Nomination papers are now available for candidates who are planning to run for office in the September 2024 primary election and November 2024 general election. Under state law, candidates are required to gather a certain number of signatures in order to qualify for the ballot. Papers are available in the Office of the Secretary of the State’s Elections Division, located at 1 Ashburton Place in Boston and Galvin’s other offices in Springfield and Fall River. Continue reading NOMINATION PAPERS NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2024 CANDIDATES →

By Bob Katzen

(No bill number yet assigned) – The Committee on Higher Education has given a favorable report to and recommended passage of a bill that would prohibit public and private colleges in the Bay State colleges from using “legacy admissions” – a tradition that gives to a boost in a prospective student’s odds of admission to a college just because the applicant is related to a current student or alumnus.
Continue reading PROHIBIT “LEGACY” COLLEGE ADMISSIONS →

By Bob Katzen

The House has given initial approval to a bill that would require that any group or individual soliciting contributions for a charitable organization by mail or telephone, to inform potential donors what percentage of contributions go directly to the charity.
Continue reading CHARITABLE DONATIONS (H 2280) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0 (No House roll call), approved Gov. Maura Healey’s reorganization plan that would split the current Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development into two separate cabinet level departments: the new Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities and the renamed Secretary of Economic Development.
Continue reading NEW CABINET POSITION: SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND LIVABLE COMMUNITIES (H 43) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 132-26, (Senate on a voice vote without a roll call vote), approved a proposal that beginning on December 1, 2023, would provide free phone calls and video calls for all prisoners in Massachusetts. Continue reading FREE PHONE CALLS FOR PRISONERS (H 4051) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 155-1, Senate 38-1, approved a tax relief package that supporters say will provide $561.3 million in tax relief in fiscal year 2024 and $1.02 billion per year in subsequent years.
Continue reading TAX RELIEF PACKAGE (H 4104) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 157-0, Senate 38-0, 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 (S 2375) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 153-0, Senate 39-0, approved a $388.6 million fiscal 2023 supplemental budget.
Continue reading $388.6 MILLION FISCAL 2023 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 3548) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 156-2, Senate 39-0, approved a $56.2 billion fiscal 2024 state budget for the fiscal year that began July 1, 2023. The price tag represents a $3.8 billion increase over last year’s fiscal 2023 budget. Continue reading $56.2 BILLION FISCAL 2024 STATE BUDGET (H 4040) →

Obituary

Paul A. Stone, of Somerville, passed away in the comfort of his home surrounded by the love of his family on February 6, 2024. He was 70 years old. Born in Cambridge, Paul is one of six children born to Hazel (Currier) and Albert Stone.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Paul A. Stone →

Captain Mark Matthews was promoted to the rank of District Chief at the February 8th City Council meeting. Continue reading Somerville Fire Department Promotion →

Obituary

Tomlinson, Doris- Of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 8, 2024. She was 99 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Doris Tomlinson →

Obituary

O’Hare, Thomas J. – Of New York, formerly of Somerville, passed away by his loving family on Thursday, February 8, 2024. He was 77 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Thomas J. O’Hare →

Obituary

O’Callaghan, Diane D. (Rugoletti) – Of Somerville suddenly February 8, 2024.

Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Diane D. O’Callaghan →

(Somerville, MA) Naveo Credit Union is pleased to announce the addition of Karen Yee as their new Senior Vice President, Chief Lending Officer (CLO). Yee joins the Naveo executive team with extensive risk and compliance experience in financial services. Yee fills in for long-time Senior Lender and Senior Vice President of Lending, Albert Pinho who retires in March.
Continue reading Naveo Credit Union Announces Karen Yee as their Senior Vice President, Chief Lending Officer →

Obituary

Mary B. Lonergan, 91, of Nashua, NH, passed in the comfort of her Nashua Crossings home on February 9, 2024. Known as Bridget to her friends, she was born in Malden, MA to Mary Catherine (Brancato) and Dennis Fowler and grew up in Somerville. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary B. Lonergan →

Move vehicles by 11 p.m. on Monday, February 12 to odd-numbered side of street (unless otherwise posted) to avoid ticketing and towing

Parking is also allowed in City-owned lots (but not in school lots)
Continue reading Somerville Declares Snow Emergency Effective Mon., Feb. 12, 7 p.m. Move Cars by 11 p.m. →

Vasta, Salvatore- Of Somerville, died on Sunday, February 11, 2024. He was 80 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Salvatore Vasta →

We are looking for sponsors to cover expenses associated with event, which is a luncheon and silent auction. Your company/business will be acknowledged in various forms. All proceeds will pay for these expenses and the rest of the proceeds will go to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Jimmy Fund. Continue reading The Ted Williams Camp Alumni & Friends Jimmy Fund Benefit 7-13-24 →

Dear Billy T and Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,

So a childhood friend from St Joe’s had his family’s house in Somervile go into receivership. He said once it did, he was getting called constantly by Maria Curtatone begging him to sell it to her. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Registra Maria Curtatone’s Unethical Predatory Actions →

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

I said when I checked all my facts with the Fire Dept post I made the other night I would spread the information so people can actually get some transparency around here. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: 5am Laidlaw Medford dumpster fire blast →

On Wednesday, February 7th 2024, our Community Affairs Unit was able to partner with the City’s Race and Social Justice Department. Continue reading Somerville Police Collect Donations for Unhoused Population →

Click on link below to read February 6th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online February 6th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading February 6th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

“For years, Publicis Health’s marketing schemes helped fuel the nationwide opioid crisis, which has shattered some of our most vulnerable communities, while creating significant financial strain on our state systems. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee has recommended passage of a bill that would direct the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), in consultation with the Toxics Use Reduction Institute, to create and publish a list of toxic chemicals in children’s products; a list of high priority chemicals in children’s toys and other products; and a list of safer alternative chemicals that can replace chemicals on the high priority chemical list. Continue reading TOXIC CHEMICALS IN CHILDREN’S TOYS (S 2564) →

By Bob Katzen

Another measure heard by the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee would require that mobile carnival rides which use enclosed pods, cabins, compartments or other enclosed passenger areas as part of a ride have a safety restraint system that includes seat belts. Violators would be subject to up to a $1,000 fine and/or 1-year prison sentence.
Continue reading REGULATE RIDES ON MOBILE AMUSEMENT CARNIVALS (H 3896) →

By Bob Katzen

The Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee held a hearing on a bill 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 proposal 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 2372) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment to clarify that certain guns legally bought prior to 2016 are “legacy” weapons, and can still be legally held, though this new Senate bill would make new purchases of such weapons illegal.
Continue reading LEGACY” GUNS (S 2572) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 37-2, approved an amendment that would allow firearm companies to “design, advertise, market, import or sell at wholesale or retail a firearm industry product in a manner that recommends or encourages persons under the age of 18 to participate lawfully in hunting or shooting sports.” Continue reading MARKETING GUNS TO PEOPLE UNDER 18 (S 2572) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 9-31, rejected a motion to send the firearms bill to the Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security in order to have a public hearing on it.
Continue reading SEND BILL BACK TO COMMITTEE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING (S 2572) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 37-3, approved a bill that would change some of the state’s gun laws. The House has already approved a different version of the measure and a House-Senate conference committee will try to hammer out a compromise version.
Continue reading APPROVE FIREARMS BILL (S 2572) →

Obituary

Drew, Patricia A. – Of Medford, passed away on January 20, 2024 at the Sawtell Hospice House. She was 78. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia A. Drew →

Interested Community Members Can Learn More at Informational Session on Tuesday, February 6
Primary Will Be Held on Tuesday, March 5, 2024
Continue reading Somerville Hiring Polling Place Workers for 2024 Presidential Primary →

Obituary,

Patricia A. (Mack) – Of Medford, formerly of Somerville passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Monday, January 29, 2025. She was 88.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia A. Carbone →

Obituary

Barbara (Walsh) Cotreau – Of Somerville, passed away on February 1, 2024. She was 85. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Barbara Cotreau →

Obituary

Vilma Ferri Sullivan passed away on January 29, 2024. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Vilma Ferri Sullivan →

SOMERVILLE – The Presidential Primary election for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is Tuesday, March 5. The primary election is open to all registered voters in Somerville. Somerville voters can vote early in person or by mail.

Register to Vote by February 24
You can register one of three ways: Continue reading Somerville Early Voting and Voting by Mail Information for Massachusetts Presidential Primary Election →

Click on link below to read January 30th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online January 30th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading January 30th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Obituary

Helen P. (Murphy) Estabrook, of Bedford and formerly of Arlington, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on January 23, 2024, she was 95. Born in Boston she was the oldest of six children born to Catherine (Slattery) and Charles F. Murphy.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Helen P. Estabrook →

Obituary

Drago, Vincent A. – Of Somerville January 24, 2024.

Beloved husband of Josephine (Leone) Drago. Loving father of Vincent M. Drago and his wife Michèle Hansen of Somerville, Bruce J. Drago of Somerville, and David S. Drago of Medford.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering VINCENT A. DRAGO →

Obituary

Walsh, Albert J. – Of Cambridge, formerly of Somerville, passed away at home on January 18, 2024. He was 94. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Albert J. Walsh →

Obituary

Steven P. Mattson, of Nashua, New Hampshire, passed away suddenly on January 24, 2024, he was 67. Born in Stoneham, but raised in Somerville; with his three brothers, Steven was the son of the late Aurora (Kazanjian) and Carl E. Mattson, Sr. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Steven P Mattson →

Obituary
New to Boston in the early 1950s, Charles Daniels was on the cusp of adolescence when he found a camera in the closet of his parents’ Roxbury home. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Charles Daniels →

Obituary
Gourgoumis, John J. – Of Saugus, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, January 27, 2024. He was 79. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John J. Gourgoumis →

Interim paving on schedule for early summer 2024

Full streetscape redesign process with community input in planning

SOMERVILLE — To help community members stay informed on planned work for Highland Avenue, the City
of Somerville is sharing important information regarding the current timeline for utility work, upcoming interim paving, and the streetscape redesign process. Continue reading Interim Paving and Streetscape Planning for Highland Avenue →

Obituary

, Paul C. – Of Somerville, passed away at home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, January 28, 2024. He was 84. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Paul C. Boyden →

Strong work by the members of Local 76 once again participating in the BFit Challenge! The money raised by the team this year benefited the On-Site Academy which is an organization for the training and treatment of emergency personnel struggling with critical incident stress and/or substance abuse. Continue reading Members of Somerville Local 76 Participating In BFit Challenge →

By Bob Katzen

“Partnership between law enforcement and the communities they serve is the cornerstone of effective public safety. This funding is an investment in the enduring success of strong partnerships. Through this grant program, we provide public safety with essential resources to enhance community engagement and deliver evidence-based programs.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Department of Correction (DOC) announced its intention to shut down MCI-Concord, a medium-security men’s prison which currently operates at 50 percent capacity with an incarcerated population of approximately 300. The shutdown is proposed by Gov. Healey in her fiscal 2025 budget proposal. The shutdown needs legislative approval before it goes into effect.

Continue reading GOV. HEALEY PLANS TO CLOSE OPERATION AT MCI-CONCORD →

By Bob Katzen

The State Ballot Law Commission dismissed a challenge that alleged Donald Trump is ineligible for office due to his role in the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol, ruling that it does not have jurisdiction over the case.
Continue reading STATE PANEL DENIES EFFORT TO REMOVE FORMER PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP FROM MARCH 5 REPUBLICAN PRIMARY BALLOT →

By Bob Katzen

Another proposal before the Transportation Committee, offered by Rep. Jim Arciero (D-Westford), would eliminate the initial state-required annual inspection for brand new vehicles for one year. Continue reading WAIVE FIRST ANNUAL INSPECTION FOR NEW CARS (H 3255) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would prohibit colleges from being required to release certain student education records to third parties that request the records. The prohibition would not apply to federal, state or municipal agency requests. Continue reading PRIVACY OF COLLEGE STUDENTS (H 4266) →

By Bob Katzen

The Transportation Committee held a hearing on legislation that would create a 1-year pilot program for free access to bus service for the MBTA and regional transit authorities. The measure also would establish advisory committees to evaluate the impacts of the pilot program on ridership, equity, increased access, efficiency, on-time performance, cost savings and other metrics. Continue reading FREE BUSES (H 3266) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed an executive order requiring all state agencies to institute skills-based hiring practices. The order requires hiring to focus primarily on an applicant’s skills, knowledge and abilities rather than educational credentials. Continue reading GOV. HEALEY SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER INSTITUTING SKILLS-BASED HIRING →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healy filed her second annual state budget, this one with a price tag of $58.15 billion. The package calls for about $2.07 billion or 3.7 percent more spending compared to the fiscal 2024 budget she signed in August 2023.
Continue reading HEALEY FILES $58.15 BILLION FISCAL YEAR 2025 STATE BUDGET →

Prior to the 9-2 vote, hundreds of Somerville residents rallied in support and packed the council chambers

SOMERVILLE, MA: On January 25th, the Somerville City Council voted overwhelmingly in favor of a resolution calling on the Biden administration to work toward an immediate and enduring ceasefire in Gaza. Continue reading Somerville City Council overwhelmingly Passes Ceasefire Resolution →

The Medford LIONS Club wants to extend special thanks for the continued and 2023 donations (turkeys, etc), gift cards, and support from Stop & Shop Co., Continue reading Medford LIONS Club wants to extend special thanks →

Click on link below to read January 23rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online<January 23rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)!–more–>

Obituary
RUF, Frank J. – Of Tewksbury formerly of Somerville and New York, January 18, 2024.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Frank J. Ruf →

By Bob Katzen

“We set high goals for our first year in office. I stood here a year ago and made promises. And because we came together, and we acted with urgency, we delivered results. We met every one of our goals. Today, Massachusetts is more affordable, more competitive and more equitable than it was a year ago. And the state of our commonwealth, like the spirit of our people, is stronger than ever.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation designating the month of April as Sikh Appreciation Month in recognition of the significant contributions Sikhs have made to the state and to the nation. Continue reading SIKH APPRECIATION MONTH (H 3026) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill designating October as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, to increase public awareness and encourage the adoption of shelter and rescue dogs in Massachusetts. Continue reading ADOPT A SHELTER DOG MONTH (H 2984) →

By Bob Katzen

LThe Agriculture Committee held a hearing on legislation 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. Continue reading PET CEMETERIES (H 4206) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House legislation that would require that all real estate appraisals in the Bay State be conducted by certified or licensed appraisers who are subject to regulatory oversight.
Continue reading REAL ESTATE APPRAISERS (S 2550 →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a measure that would repeal several archaic laws, still on the books in Massachusetts, which many people no longer see as criminal and/or may be unconstitutional. Continue reading REPEAL ARCHAIC LAWS (S 2979) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would prohibit surgeries that declaw cats, tendonectomies and similar procedures except in cases of medical necessity in which a veterinarian determines that the surgery would address a condition that jeopardizes the cat’s health. Declawing a cat means amputating the first bone on each toe and tendonectomies involve cutting a tendon in each toe that controls the extension of claws.
Continue reading BAN DECLAWING OF CATS (S 2552) →

Obituary
Gibbons, David T. – Of Medford, passed away on Monday, January 15, 2024 at the Blueberry Hill Rehab. He was 79. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering David T. Gibbons →

SOMERVILLE – Somerville community members are invited to join a community meeting on Monday, January 22, to learn more about the Area Plan for the Broadway corridor, which extends from Ball Square to the crest of Winter Hill.
Continue reading Somerville Community Invited to Join Kickoff Meeting for Broadway Corridor Area Plan →

Obituary

In the early hours on January 16th 2024, Robert “Bob” J. Peters of Medford passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family. Born on October 7, 1946 to the late Bernard and Anita Peters. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert J. “Bob” Peters →

Obituary
Ret. Col. Sullivan, Jr. John J. – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Monday January 15, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family. He was 90 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John J. Sullivan, Jr. →

SOMERVILLE – Somerville community members are invited to join a community meeting on Monday, January 29, to learn more about the updated commercial area plan for Davis Square. The presentation will review changes to the previous draft of the plan released in 2020 and offer the opportunity for initial feedback from attendees.
Continue reading Somerville Community Invited to Learn More About Davis Square Commercial Area Plan →

Obituary
Nancy J. (Kaminski) O’Connell passed away on January 14, 2024 at home surrounded by the love of family, she was 80. Born and raised in Cambridge, she was the daughter of the late Delphine (Levanitis) and Stanley Kaminski.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nancy J. O’Connell →

Obituary
Mary L. Sluskonis – Of Medford, passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday, January 18, 2024. She was 69. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary L. Sulskonis →

Obituary
Patricia Ann O’Leary passed away peacefully on Wednesday January 17, 2024 at her home in Arlington after a long and valiant battle with cancer. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia “Tricia” A. O’Leary →

The City of Somerville Job Creation and Retention Trust (JCRT) is now accepting applications for one local business representative to join the committee as a new member. Continue reading Somerville Job Creation and Retention Trust Committee Seeks One New Member →

Obituary
JOSEPH J. LOMBARDO 🇺🇸

Command Sergeant Major, United States Army (Retired), 42 years of service

January 18, 2024 Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph J. Lombardo →

Johnston Mildred M. (Fitzgerald) – Of Kingston formerly of Somerville January 19, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Richard Allen Johnston Sr.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mildred M. Johnston →

Commercial Breaking and Entering

24001998: On 1/11/24 at approximately 5:08 PM, Somerville Police responded to a property on Walnut St for report of a past breaking and entering. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log 1/9/2024 – 1/15/2024 →

The crew of Ladder One had the privilege of meeting some students from the McGlynn School’s “Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibility Club.” Continue reading Medford Firefighters Local 1032 News Updates →

Click on link below to read January January 16th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (2)16th, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online Continue reading January 16th, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By Bob Katzen

The Education Committee held a public hearing on legislation that would require the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to develop and assist in the implementation of curriculum on personal financial literacy to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to become self-supporting and to enable them to make critical decisions regarding personal finances. All students in grades 9-12 would be required to take the course. Continue reading STUDENTS MUST TAKE A FINANCIAL LITERACY COURSE (H 4199) →

By Bob Katzen

Another measure heard by the Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy Committee would prohibit telecommunications or internet service providers from collecting personally identifiable information from a customer as a result of the customer’s use of the telecommunications or internet services, without the customer’s express written approval. Continue reading REQUIRE INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS TO GET CUSTOMER’S CONSENT (H 3179) →

By Bob Katzen

The Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy Committee held a hearing on legislation that would accelerate the decrease of carbon emissions by requiring the state to achieve net zero emissions by 2040, instead of current law which sets the goal for 2050. Continue reading ZERO EMISSIONS BY 2040 (S 2488) →

By Bob Katzen

A 4-3 ruling by the State Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) overruled the Legislature and ruled that life sentences without the possibility of parole for offenders who were 18, 19 or 20 when they committed their crimes violate the prohibition against cruel or unusual punishment and are unconstitutional. Continue reading PROHIBIT GIVING LIFE WITHOUT PAROLE SENTENCES TO 18, 19 AND 20 YEAR OLDS →

By Bob Katzen

Join MASSterList and the State House News Service for an in-person event at the Massachusetts Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) in Downtown Crossing, Boston on January 23 from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Continue reading DON’T MISS THIS “HOW CAN WE ACHIEVE HEALTH CARE EQUITY IN MASSACHUSETTS” EVENT →

Assault

24000645: On 1/4/24 at approximately 9:40 PM, Somerville Police responded to a business in Assembly Row for report of an assault. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated he was out to dinner with a group of people and an altercation ensued. During the altercation, the victim was attacked by four individuals. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log 1/2/2024 – 1/8/2024 →

By William Tauro

Either I am super human or the doctor/surgeon misdiagnosed my injury and/or lied to me?

Dec 31st (New Year’s Eve Day):
Fell 12’ feet off a ladder while fiddling around on my boat and landed on my right heel.

Jan 1st 10:00am (New Year’s Day):
Went to Mount Auburn Hospital Emergency Room where they told me I had a completely torn off Achilles tendon and a fractured ankle where they put me into a cast up to my knee informing me that I need surgery. Continue reading Western Medicine Quacks vs Eastern Medicine Knowledge, Who Should We Believe In These Days? →

Obituary

We are saddened to announce that Benjamin Z. Rothberg passed peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, January 7, 2024. He was a lover of all creatures great and small, and his compassionate spirit will be missed by all who knew him.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Benjamin Z. Rothberg →

Obituary

CRUZ, JOSE VICTOR – Of Somerville, suddenly January 9, 2024. Services to be announced. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Jose Victor Cruz →

Obituary

Maureen Murphy died peacefully of a stroke with her family by her side on January 4, 2024, at the age of 84. She was born on June 25, 1939, in Somerville, MA, and was raised in the same city. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering M.Maureen Murphy →

Obituary

Cecile Almonor passed away on January 9, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family, she was 90. Born and raised in Latortue, Haiti she immigrated to the United States in 2010 and settled in Somerville with her family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Cecile Almonor →

Obituary

Mrs. Rina C. (Biagiotti) Palmer passed away surrounded by the love of her family on January 12, 2024, she was 96. A longtime Somerville resident, Rina was born in East Boston, the cherished daughter of Alice (Groppi) and Victor Biagiotti. She was the beloved wife of the late Joseph A. Palmer. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rina C. Palmer →

A Thank You from The Driscoll Family

We are so grateful for the overwhelming support and love we have received during this challenging time. Your kindness has been a source of strength for our family, and we feel truly blessed to be part of such a caring community.
 Continue reading In Loving Memory of Kayla Driscoll →

This will be a fun time for a very great cause. Let’s do this! Continue reading SHS Boy’s Hockey Fundraiser →