This year the City of Somerville was named a 2023 Digital Inclusion Trailblazer by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA), joining 46 municipal, county, and regional governments recognized for paving the way for digitally inclusive communities across the US. Continue reading Somerville Named One of Nation’s Digital Inclusion Trailblazers
Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville’s Office of Strategic Planning & Community Development (OSPCD) are announcing the release of Mitigating Commercial Displacement in Somerville, MA, a study commissioned by Somerville’s Economic Development team, and authored by graduate students from the Rappaport Greater Boston Advanced Applied Field Lab and the Bloomberg-Harvard Cities Field Lab at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Continue reading Somerville Releases Strategic Study to Help Small Businesses Avoid Commercial Displacement
The City of Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) is seeking six community members to join the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan Task Force. Continue reading Join the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan Task Force
Mayor Katjana Ballantyne recently announced that the City of Somerville and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) have successfully reached an agreement to provide better wages and benefits for Somerville crossing guards. Highlights from the new contract terms include a 20 percent pay increase from $20 to $24/an hour and paid sick leave benefits. Continue reading City of Somerville Announces Agreement Increasing School Crossing Guard Pay and Benefits
The Somerville community is invited to attend the 2024 Inauguration celebration on Tuesday, January 2. At the Inauguration your elected officials get sworn in for their two-year terms in office, followed by addresses from the Mayor, President of the City Council, and Chair of the School Committee. Continue reading You’re Invited to the 2024 City of Somerville Inauguration Ceremonies
Obituary
Mr. Toi Van Ngo passed away at his Medford home; surrounded by his devoted family on December 21, 2023, he was 96. Born and raised in Bac Ninh, Vietnam he was the son of the late Loi Van Ngo and Dau Thi Nguyen.
The beloved husband of the late Hien Kim Do, he was the father of nine children and grandfather of many loving grandchildren and great grand children.
Visiting Hours will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville on Friday, December 29th from 4:00PM to 8:00PM.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in Saint Clement Church – Blessed Andrew Phu Yen Parish, on Saturday, December 30th at 10:00AM. Relatives and friends invited to attend. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Toi Van Ngo
On Sunday the 17th, Local 76 was proud to host Santa Clause for the annual kids Christmas party. Per usual, the children of Local 76 had a blast and Santa left fat and happy! Continue reading Somerville Firefighters Local 76 Updates
The first step to becoming a police officer is to take the Massachusetts Civil Service Police Entrance exam. Continue reading Medford Police Are Hiring
Click on link below to read December 19th, 2023 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online December 19th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading December 19th, 2023 Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Obituary
Joanne L. DiGregorio, a longtime administrative secretary for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, passed away on Sunday, December 10, 2023.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joanne L. DiGregorio
Photo:Anne and Bryan Hamlin of Medford are pictured with one of the friendly horses at Ironstone Farm. The Hamlins were among group that visited the farm as part of Mystic Valley Elder Services’ Caregiver Support Program.
Mystic Valley Elder Services’ (MVES) Memory Café has been traveling this fall! Memory Cafés bring together people with memory loss and their family caregivers to share positive experiences and build support networks. Memory Cafés are offered as part of MVES’ Caregiver Support Program. Recently, the Memory Café visited Ironstone Farm, a therapeutic horse farm in Andover. Continue reading Family Fun on the Farm MVES and COAs Host Caregiver Program at Equine Farm
Applications Due February 9, 2024
SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is seeking volunteers to join both the Somerville Pedestrian & Transit Advisory Committee (PTAC) and the Somerville Bicycle Advisory Committee (SBAC). PTAC and SBAC advise the City on projects, policy, and programs related to walking, bicycling, and transit as a means of transportation in Somerville and work to create a safer and more equitable built environment for people of all ages and abilities.
Continue reading Volunteer Today for the Somerville Pedestrian & Transit Advisory and Somerville Bicycle Advisory Committees
Ceremonies and Addresses To Be Held at Somerville High School on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.
Public Reception at The Row Hotel Will Immediately Follow.
Continue reading All Invited to City of Somerville 2024 Inauguration
Obituary
Kostopoulos, Alexandria (Ghikas) – Of Medford December 13, 2023. Beloved wife of the late James Kostopoulos. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Alexandria Kostopoulos
Program begins at 11:30 a.m. with Procession from City Hall to Prospect Hill
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Museum will kick off the New Year on Monday, January 1, 2024, with a ceremony for the anniversary of the “Grand Union” flag-raising ceremony at Prospect Hill Park. Continue reading Join Somerville’s 248th Annual Grand Union Flag Raising
Obituary
Ann (Harkin) Doherty, of Arlington, formerly of Somerville and Co. Donegal, Ireland, passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family on December 12 at the age of 91. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ann Doherty
By Bob Katzen
“Farmers are on the front lines of an increasingly volatile climate. When the farming community is hurting, we are hurting. Our administration has been committed to helping these farms in their time of need. The agricultural industry is instrumental in our food system and the overall economy. We hope this funding will go a long way towards ensuring this sector remains resilient.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would establish the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial Fund to maintain the Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial in Ashburton Park outside of the Statehouse. The memorial honors Massachusetts law enforcement personnel killed in the line of duty.
Continue reading MASSACHUSETTS LAW ENFORCEMENT MEMORIAL FUND (H 2417)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would allow police officers to issue tickets for seat belt violations even if the driver is not first stopped for another violation as required under current law. Continue reading PRIMARY ENFORCEMENT OF THE SEAT BELT LAW (H 2395, H 2340)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require all police department and other law enforcement agencies to develop and maintain a program for supporting law enforcement officers who have been involved in a critical incident. Continue reading HELP POLICE OFFICERS AFTER A CRITICAL INCIDENT (H 2355)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would allow advanced life support care to be administered to an injured police dog by a licensed, trained, qualified professional. Continue reading ALLOW ADVANCED LIFE SUPPORT FOR POLICE DOGS (H 2423)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would create a Retired Police Dog Care Fund to provide grants to non-profit organizations to provide care and medical services to retired police dogs. The law is named after Dakota, a police dog who suffered PTSD following the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing.
Continue reading RETIRED POLICE DOGS – DAKOTA’S LAW – (H 2424)
By Bob Katzen
The House approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would require employers to give employees sufficient time off, with pay, to vote in state, city and town elections, on Election Day, if the employee does not have sufficient time to vote outside working hours. Continue reading GIVE WORKERS PAID TIME OFF TO VOTE (H 4217)
By Bob Katzen
The percentage next to the senator’s name represents the percentage of times the senator supported his or her party’s leadership so far in 2023 through December 15. The number in parentheses represents the number of times the senator opposed his or her party’s leadership.
Continue reading SENATORS’ SUPPORT OF THEIR PARTY’S LEADERSHIP IN 2023 THROUGH DECEMBER 15
City’s Digital Bridge Initiative Recognized for Work to Close Digital Divide by the National Digital Inclusion Alliance Continue reading Somerville Named One of Nation’s Digital Inclusion Trailblazers
SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville’s Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan Task Force, which will review and update the City’s ADA Transition Plan, is accepting applications from community members to join the Task Force.
Continue reading Somerville American with Disabilities Act Transition Plan Task Force Seeks Members
Obituary
Mrs. Gloria J. (Pike) Burgos, of Somerville, passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, December 17th she was 77. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Gloria J. Burgos
Obituary:
Martin, Julien A.- Of Arlington, formerly of Medford, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. He was 90.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Julien A Martin
By Richard Scirocco
A correspondence detailing only a few of the Election violations by the Somerville Election personnel was served on the State and Federal Officials on the 17th of November 2023. A quick response from the Secretary of States legal representation responded with a standard
delay of “addressing other issues seperately”. As time is of the essence, and major impact to decisions are made, i.e. policies ,raising of taxes, etc. , the State Legal Department policy was exercising their preference of not acting immediately, but, it appears instead waiting out the timeline until the swearing in of a candidate. Continue reading THE SOMERVILLE ELECTION STALL-OUT
On Monday December 18th, members of the Community Affairs Unit along with several Somerville Police Officers were able to drop off all of the toys they collected from their toy drive. Continue reading Somerville PD Fill-a-Cruiser With Toys Success
THE MEDFORD LIONS CLUB successfully hosted its 6th Turkey Raffle starring 4 big birds, 3 gift cards and great baskets! Continue reading MEDFORD LIONS HOST POPULAR TURKEY RAFFLE, 2023
On Sunday December 10th, the Medford-Malden Elks had the honor to host a luncheon for the Veterans from the Soldiers Home in Chelsea. What a great turnout! Holiday music was playing, food was served and each Veteran received a little gift. Continue reading Medford-Malden Elks #915 News: luncheon for the Veterans from the Chelsea Soldiers Home
Obituary:
Kayla E. Driscoll, 34, passed away unexpectedly on December 13, 2023. She was born on November 27, 1989 in Melrose, Massachusetts, to Ellen (O’Neil) Driscoll and John A. Driscoll. Kayla graduated from Somerville High School in 2007. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kayla E. Driscoll
SOMERVILLE: On Thursday, December 14th, the Kiwanis Club of Somerville, along with our friends from the Somerville Lions Club and Somerville Rotary Club hosted our annual Toys For Tots luncheon at the Mount Vernon Restaurant. Continue reading Kiwanis Club of Somerville, Somerville Lions Club, Somerville Rotary Club Host our Annual Toys For Tots Luncheon
We have just taken a major step forward toward our goal of transforming Medford High School!
The Massachusetts School Building Authority voted to move our application into the Eligibility Phase of the School Building Process. We’re now that much closer to reimagining the facility and strengthening our learning environment for students, teachers and staff. Continue reading A Message From Medford Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn:Transforming Medford High School
Come visit Maria Koutsoubaris at a new food establishment that has recently opened in Somerville, “FoodDy’s Kitchen” that’s located on Holland Street in Teele Square directly across the street from the fire station. Continue reading FoodDy’s Kitchen Is Open In Somerville
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
I spoke with you earlier today.
The main issues that I see in this situation is A. discrimination from the landlord B. The cities policy on wait list for inclusionary housing is anti disability in ADA accessible as well as the fact that this has been going on for years and nobody bothered to notice which means that ADA accessible needing people have not been getting the units they needed for years. C. the fact that the unit that I live in was approved by the city inclusionary housing, engineers, building department, zoning department, and the apartments as being ADA when in fact it is in complete violation of all ADA building codes. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Assembly Row And City Of Somerville Not Playing By The Rules
Obituary
Brainard, Pasquale A. – affectionately known as Pat or Sarge. Of Somerville, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Monday, December 4, 2023. He was 86.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Pasquale A. Brainard
Obituary
Masterson, Patricia A.- Affectionately known as Patty, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, December 7, 2023. Se was 64. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia A. “Patty” Masterson
Obituary
O’Neil, Dorothy H.- Affectionally known as Dotty, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Monday, December 4, 2023. She was 72.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dorothy H. “Dotty” O’Neil
“Well, I’m proud of the things that we were able to get done this year. You know, as I look back, and it’s a time of reflection to a certain extent, as I look back on the year, I mean, the budget that we passed that I signed, [had] really, really important investments, education, workforce, climate initiatives, housing. Tax cuts for the first time in over 20 years.”
—Gov. Maura Healey reflecting on her first year in office. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
A bill before the Election Laws Committee would apply the state’s campaign finance election laws to political entities or expenditures made to influence the outcome of articles that appear on Town Meeting warrants.
Continue reading APPLY CAMPAIGN FINANCE LAWS TO TOWN MEETING ARTICLES (H 4173)
By Bob Katzen
Another bill heard by the Judiciary Committee would establish a working group on gender equity to investigate the price differentiations between products marketed to males versus those marketed to females. Continue reading INVESTIGATE WHY WOMEN PAY MORE FOR THE SAME PRODUCTS BOUGHT BY MEN (H 1639)
By Bob Katzen
A bill that would prohibit discrimination on the basis of a person’s height or weight, unless for the purpose of compliance with any established state, federal or industry safety standard, was heard by the Judiciary Committee.
Continue reading BAN DISCRIMINATION BASED ON HEIGHT AND WEIGHT (H 1705)
By Bob Katzen
Another proposal heard by the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee would require that, effective July 1, 2026, every school bus transporting students to or from a public, vocational, private or parochial school be equipped with a seatbelt for each permanent seating accommodation. Continue reading REQUIRE SEAT BELTS ON SCHOOL BUSSES (S 1504)
By Bob Katzen
The Municipalities and Regional Government Committee held a hearing on legislation that would allow cities and towns to make a property owner responsible for the cost of excessive noise complaint calls made to the police about noise at the owner’s address. Under the bill, the property owner would be required to reimburse the city or town for each police call that exceeds more than ten in a calendar year. Continue reading FINES FOR NOISE VIOLATIONS (H 2026)
By Bob Katzen
The House and Senate approved and Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a $3.1 billion supplemental budget to close out fiscal year 2023. A key and controversial provision provides for $250 million for sheltering eligible families during the emergency shelter crisis created by the recent influx of thousands of migrants.
Continue reading $3.1 BILLION SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 4204)
By Bob Katzen
Offshore wind in Massachusetts is about to achieve a significant milestone while facing an uncertain future. With the cornerstone of Massachusetts’ clean energy goals at stake, can the state surmount challenging economic conditions to expand wind power? Continue reading DON’T MISS THIS EVENT ON THE FUTURE OF OFFSHORE WIND
Obituary
On December 7, 2023 the greater Boston area lost one of its most delightful and fun-loving residents. Sandra DeShaffon Ross passed to the better life just months before her eightieth birthday, a source of great sadness for all those who know and love her. Among her final pronouncements, she reflected on her life with her customary cheerfulness, exclaiming, “What a ride! No regrets!” Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Sandra D. Ross
O’Connell, Robert W. “Bob” – Of Medford December 10, 2023. Beloved husband of the late MaryLou (Scanlon) O’Connell. Complete notice to follow.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert W. O’Connell
Residents of Somerville getting into the Christmas spirit in Teele Square  Continue reading Christmas Season Coming Alive In Somerville
Disclaimer: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,
By Robert L. Peters
1 – Make sure no money exchanges hands in a verifiable way.
2 – Blackmail. Elite Membership Prostitution Ring, Epstein-style.
3 – Big Tech Censorship Assistance.
4 – Schmooze with Royalty to Legitimize yourself.
5 – Mask your involvement with a Front.
Crystalizing Public Opinion – 101 Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: How to Buy an Election
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Okay am I the only one who has an issue with the fact Nicole Morell is trying to pull a sneak move and push this 300% increase through for elected officials, meanwhile we have female teachers who only got 3% raise and to get the funds for this 90k it will come from the school department???
Wow is all I have to say our teachers deserve better than this shame on you Nicole. I’m so disappointed.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: 300% increase through for elected officials, meanwhile we have female teachers who only got 3% raise and to get the funds for this 90k
All Medford Fire Stations are currently accepting donations for Toys for Tots, the Medford Family Network, and other organizations whose goal is to help families during the holiday season.
Please consider donating a new, unwrapped toy to those in need this holiday season. Continue reading Medford Firefighters Local 1032 News Updates
Obituary
Complete obituary to be posted soon.
Funeral Procession from the George L. Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville on Monday morning, December 11th at 10AM followed by a Funeral Mass celebrated in St. Joseph Church, Union Sq. Somerville at 11AM. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Frank Buttaro
On December 3rd, Officers Pat Canty and Edna DaCosta read to Brown School students at Porter Square Books! Continue reading Somerville Police Department Updates
Obituary
McLean, Michael W. – A resident of Winthrop, formerly of Somerville, transitioned on Sunday, November 26th, surrounded by the embrace of his loving family. He was a vibrant soul at 69 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Michael William McLean
Obituary
Richard “Dickie” Mahoney – Of Lynn, passed away after a brief illness on Tuesday, November 28, 2023. He was 80 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard “Dickie” Mahoney
Open Enrollment Begins on October 15th and runs to December 7th. Medicare recipients can change their health insurance plans for January 1, 2024. While having the freedom to change your health insurance plan can save you money, there are many health insurance plans and companies to choose from. You don’t have to make the decision alone, the Somerville Council on Aging has SHINE Counseling available in person, over the phone, or on Zoom to assist you with comparing what health insurance options are available for you. You can call Natasha Naim at 617-625-6600, ext. 2317 or Molly Pagliuca at ext. 2318 to book an appointment. Continue reading Somerville COA December Press Outreach 12-1-23
By Bob Katzen
“I promise all the constituents of this district that I will work hard to ensure that your interests are represented on Beacon Hill. I will work continuously to make a positive difference for our district and our commonwealth. I will always stand with the taxpayers, help small businesses and ensure that our state government is accountable.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would raise the minimum age for acquiring a Firearm Identification Card (FID) from 18 years old (or 14-17 years of age with parental consent) to 21 years old. FID permits the purchase, possession and transportation of non-large-capacity rifles, shotguns and ammunition. Continue reading RAISE THE AGE FOR GUN POSSESSION (H 2369)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would prohibit police, other law enforcement officers and other government officials from confiscating any lawfully owned firearm, rifle, shotgun, machinegun or ammunition. Continue reading CANNOT CONFISCATE LEGAL GUNS (S 1513)
By Bob Katzen
The Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee held a hearing on several bills dealing with guns including these three:
GHOST GUNS (S 1496) – Would make ghost guns illegal in Massachusetts. Sponsor Sen. Cindy Creem (D-Newton) explains that ghost guns are unfinished firearms that allow individuals to easily build their own guns from unregulated kits. Continue reading GUN LEGISLATION
By Bob Katzen
Another measure heard by the State Administration and Regulatory Oversight Committee would ban municipalities and the state from installing or subsidizing new artificial turf fields that contain zinc, plastic, perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), or other toxins. Continue reading BAN SOME ARTIFICIAL TURFS (H 3948)
By Bob Katzen
The State Administration and Regulatory Oversight Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would prohibit the state, the MBTA and cities and towns from constructing “hostile architecture” that supporters of the ban say targets the homeless and tries to push them out of certain areas. The bill defines hostile architecture as “any building or structure that is designed or intended to prevent unhoused individuals from sitting or lying on the building or structure at street level.” Continue reading BAN HOSTILE ARCHITECTURE THAT TARGETS THE HOMELESS (H 3963)
By Bob Katzen
THE HOUSE AND SENATE: There were no roll call votes in the House or Senate last week. This week, Beacon Hill Roll Call reports local representatives’ roll call attendance records for the 2023 session through December 1.
The House has held 70 roll calls so far in 2023. Beacon Hill Roll Call tabulates the number of roll calls on which each representative was present and voting, and then calculates that number as a percentage of the total roll call votes held. That percentage is the number referred to as the roll call attendance record. Continue reading MA House of Representatives: 29.4 percent (47 representatives out of 160) have missed one or more roll calls
Obituary
Complete obituary to be posted.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lung Thi Nguyen
Obituary
Obituary to be posted soon.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Louise McCullough
We are postponing the Globe Santa visit and Medford Square Tree lighting to TUESDAY December 5; 3:30-5:30. Continue reading Medford-SANTA IS ON RAÏN DELAY!
As many families struggle during uncertain economic times, union volunteers to bring toys for children in need through Medford Family Network
Continue reading Teamsters Local 25 Holiday Toy Drive Makes Special Delivery
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
The clown show continues here in Medford. Guess Madam Mayor got her way after all and these foolish body cameras stayed in their lockers until after the election. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: The clown show continues here in Medford
Starting December 4, 2023 Medford Police Officers will be wearing body-worn cameras
As part of the initial rollout on December 4, 2023, a group of 33 officers will wear the device, including seven supervisors. Continue reading Medford Police Department Announces Launch of Body Worn Camera Program
18th Annual Event
Benefits the Toys for Local Children Program Continue reading 18th Annual Event Benefits the Toys for Local Children Program
I just received a call from a customer inquiring about a residenal mortgage. Her impression what that she needed to put down a minimum of 20% downpayment. My response was, did you know that to buy a residenal property you do not need to put 20% down payment? Continue reading You Do Not Need To Have A 20% Downpayment For A Residential Mortgage
The buzzy Boston production brings its core mission of “diversity through
dance” to the stage with ballet, hip-hop, tap, and more. All set to music by Pyotr
Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Duke Ellington
Highlights include the inclusion of Bollywood dance, a partnership with the Continue reading Local Dancer Performs in Anthony Williams’ Urban Nutcracker this December at the Boch Center Shubert Theatre
“Through the creation of readiness plans on college campuses, we are ensuring that more people will have safe and effective options for reproductive health care. Schools can and should use this toolkit to evaluate and improve their capacity to provide sexual and reproductive health services. Every student in Massachusetts deserves thoughtful and comprehensive support when making decisions about their own health.”
Continue reading QUOTABLE QUOTES
By Bob Katzen
The Judiciary Committee hearing also included legislation that would outlaw the practice of phishing, Continue reading BAN PHISHING AND TRACKING (H 1573)
By Bob Katzen
By Bob Katzen
Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a bill that beginning on December 1, 2023, will provide free phone calls and video calls for all prisoners in Massachusetts. Continue reading FREE PHONE CALLS FOR PRISONERS (S 4502)
Bob Katzen
Campaigns to put questions on the November 2024 ballot had until November 22 to collect and file with local city and towns clerks the 74,574 signatures necessary to take the next step toward getting their proposals on the November 2024 ballot. Continue reading 2024 BALLOT QUESTION
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-0, approved an amendment to a section of a drug price reform bill.
The Somerville Jingle Bell Run & Walk is happy to be partnering up again on Sunday, December 17, 2023 in Davis Square with the Toys for Local Children program. Continue reading Somerville Jingle Bell Run & Walk-Toys For Local Children
City supporting two local gift drives for children and teens sponsored by Toys for Local Children and MAMA’s Mutual Aid Medford and Somerville Continue reading Donate to Local Holiday Gift Drives at City Buildings through Friday, Dec. 22
Obituary
Nguyen, Mau Thi- Of Cambridge, passed away on Friday, November 24th at St. Joseph Rehab. She was 86. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nguyen, Mau Thi
Obituary:
Joan (McPherson) Grimes passed away, at her Somerville home, surrounded by the love of her family on November 21, 2023, she was 68. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joan (McPherson) Grimes
Obituary:
Christopher James Hutchinson of Somerville passed away on Monday, November 20, 2023. He was born on October 28, 1989. He was 34 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Christopher James Hutchinso
By Rick Scirocco
After the November election, more than one city and town have the belief that abnormal election results have been unofficially declared.
Including Somerville, Medford, Revere, and other local cities, the questions of impropriety have cited challenges and discrepencies, and plan on taking action. Continue reading A CALL FOR TRANSPARENCY AND INTEGRITY IN ELECTIONS, PUTTING CITY ON NOTICE
Indie Folk Pop artist American Beauties follow-up their eleven-song Too Worn to Mend cd with another eleven compositions from vocalist/band leader Michael A. Gray on 2023’s Sound of Mind. The only way to put it is that Gray’s songwriting on both discs is masterful. Continue reading American Beauties’ Sound of Mind Review by Joe Viglione
Click on link below to read November 21st, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online November 21st, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (2)
Continue reading November 21st, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
By William Tauro
Hey Mayor Ballantyne we lost another homeless person this Sunday morning sleeping next to the bridge right on lower Broadway. A homeless person died overnight sleeping in the elements, what are we going to do about it? Continue reading We Lost Another Homeless Person Due to Empty Suit’s Negligence In Somerville City GHall
This morning our members joined forces with the Somerville Police Department to hand out turkey dinners to families at the Mystic Learning Center. Continue reading Somerville Firefighters Local 76 News Updates
By Bob Katzen
It’s the end of this year’s campaign to put on the November 2024 ballot a question that would allow cities and towns the right to impose rent control, a practice which voters banned nearly 30 years ago on a 1994 ballot question.
Organizers announced that they will fall far short of the 74,574 signatures needed by November 22 to qualify for the ballot. Continue reading RENT CONTROL QUESTION WILL NOT APPEAR ON THE 2024 BALLOT
By Bob Katzen
A bill heard by the Education Committee would prohibit public schools from using an athletic team name, logo or mascot which is associated with Native Americans, or which denigrates any racial, ethnic, gender or religious group. Continue reading PROHIBIT USE OF NATIVE AMERICAN MASCOTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS (H 477, S 245)
By Bob Katzen
The Labor and Workforce Development Committee held a hearing on legislation that would create a voluntary 4-day work week pilot program in the Bay State. Continue reading 4-DAY WORK WEEK PILOT PROGRAM (H 3849)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House 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.” Continue reading PHARMACEUTICAL ACCESS, COSTS AND TRANSPARENCY (S 2499)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 3-36, rejected an amendment that would amend the state’s Right to Shelter Law which requires the state to provide shelter and other necessities to homeless parents with young children, pregnant women and recently the many migrant families arriving in the Bay State. Homeless individuals are not covered by the Right to Shelter law. Continue reading RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT (S 2502)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 36-3, approved a $2.81 billion supplemental budget to close out the books for fiscal year 2023. Continue reading $2.81 BILLION FISCAL 2023 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (S 2502)
By Bob Katzen
The House 158-0, approved and sent to the Senate legislation that supporters say will “take a comprehensive approach towards reforming the long-term care industry by supporting and expanding the workforce, enhancing oversight of facilities and ensuring greater access, all while prioritizing quality of care.” Continue reading LONG TERM CARE CHANGES (H 4178)
Obituary
Charles A. Lovering – Of Somerville November 16, 2023. Beloved son of the late Frank and Esther Lovering. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Charles A. Lovering
Thanks to the incredible work of our Medford Police Department, Medford Senior Center and local partners Wegmans and DICK’S Sporting Goods, seniors in Medford will have plenty of items to enjoy this Thanksgiving!
So many people helped make this food drive a huge success and I’m so grateful that our community cares so deeply for one another.
Awesome job coordinating by MPD Officer Jessica Walsh, and thanks to all the volunteers for making this years holiday so meaningful for our seniors.
Continue reading Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn‘s Senior’s Food Drive Thanksgiving Event
Last week some Medord Lions attended the fine luncheon at the VFW in Medford. Continue reading LIONS HONOR VETERANS.. GO MEDFORD!
The Somerville Housing Authority Board of Commissioners recently appointed Diane Cohen as Executive Director. Cohen will replace outgoing director Joe Macaluso who held the position since 1996. Continue reading SHA SELECTS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
The Somerville Police Department recently held a RAD self defense class at the police station. The participants shown completed the class on November 13th. Continue reading RAD Is Back by Popular Demand!
Click on link below to read November 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online November 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (2)
Continue reading November 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Click on link below to read November 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online November 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (2)
Continue reading November 14th, 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Happy 92nd Birthday to Emmet Smith of Somerville! Emmet is a wonderful man and we all wish him nothing but the very absolute best! Continue reading Happy 92nd Birthday to Emmet Smith
Kelley A. Snell (Smith) 8/1/61 – 11/11/23 Lifelong resident of Somerville . Beloved Wife, Cherished Mother and Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, Niece, Cousin and friend, Kelley died peacefully in her home after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kelley A. Snell (Smith)
By Bob Katzen
“We are grateful to these 12 companies for choosing our state as their new home and are thrilled to welcome them to Team Massachusetts. These companies represent sectors where Massachusetts is leading, like life sciences and healthcare, innovation and technology, and clean energy and climate tech. We’re excited to see how these businesses will create new jobs and foster economic growth within our state and our administration stands ready to partner with them to ensure they succeed.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would make it illegal to sell a new manufactured fur product in Massachusetts and impose a fine between $500 and $5,000 per fur product for anyone convicted of the sale.
Continue reading BAN SALE OF FUR PRODUCTS (H 849)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would allow new pet shops to sell only dogs and cats from shelters or rescue organizations and prohibit them from selling these animals from breeding facilities. Current pet shops would be exempt from the new law.
Continue reading NEW PET SHOPS CAN ONLY SELL SHELTER OR RESCUE DOGS AND CATS (H 826)
By Bob Katzen
This bill Would require the Department of Agricultural Resources to establish rules and regulations for boarding kennels and daycare facilities for dogs, including home-based kennels and daycare facilities — including staff to dog ratios group sizes and supervision, minimum housing and care requirements, indoor and outdoor physical facility requirements, dog handling, insurance and penalties for violations.
Continue reading REGULATE DOG SHELTERS AND DAYCARE (H 835)
By Bob Katzen
The Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery Committee held a hearing on legislation that would allow school districts the option of creating a Narcan overdose prevention program. The measure would require every school nurse to be trained in Narcan assistance and to have Narcan in the nurse’s office. Narcan is an emergency treatment used for the complete or partial reversal of opioid overdose. Continue reading NARCAN IN SCHOOLS (S 1274)
By Bob Katzen
The House 28-128, rejected an amendment that would amend the state’s Right to Shelter Law which requires the state to provide shelter and other necessities to homeless parents with young children, pregnant women and recently the many migrant families arriving in the Bay State. Homeless individuals are not covered by the Right to Shelter law. Continue reading RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT (H 4167
By Bob Katzen
The House 133-25, approved and sent to the Senate a $2.8 billion supplemental budget to close out the books for fiscal year 2023. Provisions include $2.1 billion for MassHealth for caseload adjustments; $300 million for a reserve to fund collective bargaining agreements with state employees; and $10 million in additional flood relief for municipalities hit by severe rain events this summer. Continue reading $2.8 BILLION FISCAL 2023 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 4167)
By Bob Katzen
The House 132-26, (Senate on a voice vote without a roll call vote), approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a bill that beginning on December 1, 2023, would provide free phone calls and video calls for all prisoners in Massachusetts. Gov. Healey supports the bill and is expected to sign it soon. Continue reading FREE PHONE CALLS FOR PRISONERS (H 4051)
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, the Somerville Police Department, and Autism Eats warmly invite the Somerville community to a friendsgiving dinner at Mount Vernon Restaurant (14 Broadway) on Tuesday, November 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. Continue reading Somerville Community Invited to Autism Eats Friendsgiving Dinner
Information Session and Registration Event Thursday, November 16, 4 – 7 p.m.
SOMERVILLE – Help with home heating costs is available for eligible persons. Continue reading Stay Warm for the Winter: Somerville Community Invited to Learn More About Financial Assistance Available for Home Heating Costs
If passed, petition designed to help keep rental housing affordable will go to State Legislature for approval
Continue reading Ballantyne Administration Submits Rent Stabilization Home Rule Petition to City Council
Obituary
BROWN, Barbara M. (Mulveyhill) – Of Somerville Barbara M. (Mulveyhill) November 9, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Bernard Brown Sr. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Barbara M. (Mulveyhill) BROWN
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
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· Fraud Protection Program
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COPYRIGHT
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APPLICABLE LAW
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PRICING INFORMATION
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FRAUD PROTECTION PROGRAM
As part of our order processing procedures, we screen all received orders for fraud or other types of unauthorized or illegal activity. We reserve the right to refuse to process any order due to suspected fraud or unauthorized or illegal activity. If such is the case, we may reject your order or our Customer Service department may call you at the phone number you provided to confirm your order. We also reserve the right to cancel any account or refuse to ship to certain addresses due to suspected fraud or unauthorized or illegal activity. We take these measures to protect our customers as well as ourselves from fraud or other unauthorized or illegal activity.
COMMENTS, FEEDBACK AND OTHER SUBMISSIONS
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If you have any questions about these Terms and Conditions, or the content or practices of our website, you can contact Mass Publishing Inc. directly at: Wmtauro@aol.com
WHAT OUR PRIVACY POLICY COVERS
· What our Privacy Policy Covers
· What Personal Information is Collected
· How We Protect Your Information
· How We Use Your Personal Information
· Who Views Your Personal Information
· Making a Purchase
· Children Under 13
· Website Cookies
· Questions About This Policy
WHAT OUR PRIVACY POLICY COVERS
Thank you for visiting our site. We are committed to protecting your privacy.
This Privacy Policy covers any personal information that we obtain from you when you use services on our site. This policy does not cover the practices of companies that we do not own or control, or the actions of people that we do not employ or manage.
Our Privacy Policy may change in the future. We invite you to check back periodically to see if we have made any changes.
By using this site, you agree to the terms of our policy. For more information about the terms of use for this site, please visit our legal page.
WHAT PERSONAL INFORMATION IS COLLECTED
Depending on how you use our site, we may ask you to share personal information with us. Whether you choose to give us this information is completely up to you, but keep in mind that if you withhold information, you may not be able to use some of our services.
We will ask you for information, including some personal information, when you Make a purchase. When you buy something on this site, you have to supply a billing address, phone number, shipping address, and credit card information.
HOW WE PROTECT YOUR INFORMATION
We realize that our customers trust us to protect their personal information. We take that task seriously. We never display your full credit card number once it has been entered. We urge you to protect your own privacy. We recommend that you do not share your password with anyone or share your password in an unsolicited phone call or e-mail.
Unfortunately, despite all of our efforts, there is always a risk that third parties may unlawfully intercept transmissions. This reality is true of all Internet use. As a result, we cannot ensure the security of any information you transmit, and you transmit all information at your own risk.
HOW WE USE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
We collect personal information primarily to make our services more rewarding for you to use. We usually use this information for internal purposes, such as studying our customers' preferences. We may also use your information to contact you for account and promotional purposes.
WHO VIEWS YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
We may share your personal information with companies that perform services for us, such as delivering packages, sending postal mail and e-mails, processing credit card payments, investigating fraudulent activity, and providing customer service. They have access to personal information needed to perform their functions, but may not disclose your personally identifiable information for other purposes. Some personal information is stored on servers owned by other companies. Only our personel and our websites have the right to access this information. We do not currently sell or license personal information and have no plans to do so. Your personal information will only be used by this site.
At this time, we do not share any personal information with marketing affiliates. It is unlikely that this policy will change in the future. If we do decide to share information with our affiliates, we will post a notice in this Privacy Policy.
MAKING A PURCHASE
When you buy something on this site, you have to supply a billing address, phone number, shipping address, and credit card information. By making a purchase, you become a registered user. You can choose to store information needed to make a purchase, such as your shipping and billing addresses in the My Account — Profile page. Your credit card information is NEVER stored in our databases and is used only for the duration of the purchase transaction. This data is always transmitted securely to the merchant bank and immediately erased from our systems.
CHILDREN UNDER 13
Our site is not designed for children. We do not wish to collect personal information from children under 13. This policy is designed to protect children. Federal law requires us to take special steps to safeguard children's privacy. If you register with us and we discover that you are under 13, we will delete your registration. We will send you a message if we do this. If you are under 13 and want to make a purchase, please ask a parent to place the order for you.
WEBSITE COOKIES
We collect some anonymous information about how you use the site by setting and accessing cookies on your computer. These cookies track information such as how often you visit our web site, what pages you view, and where you go after you leave the site. The cookies track your computer, not you. They are not connected to any personal information about you.
QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS POLICY
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, or the content or practices of our website, you can contact us directly at:
Mass Publishing Inc. wmtauro@aol.com
Terms & Conditions/ Cancellation/return policy:If unsatisfied with subscription
7 day money back cancellation return policy on monthly subscriptions.
30 day money back cancellation return policy on yearly subscriptions.
Contact Email: Somervillenewsweekly@yahoo.com
