By William Tauro
Something has to be done before we lose this beautiful historical building forever! Where is our historical commission during all of this? This building should be on a top priority list.
Continue reading Something has to be done before we lose this beautiful historical building forever!
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Today I feel like a part of my life is changing drastically, I grew up in the somerville boxing club, I met so many new people, so many amazing people I am still close to to this day. The gym brought structure to so many peoples lives & so much growth to everyone. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: I Grew Up in the Somerville Boxing Club
By William Tauro
This is located at a crosswalk on lower Broadway in East Somerville directly in front of the Santander Bank. Continue reading How safe do you feel walking the streets of Somerville these days?
By William Tauro
Please check out this video on my Facebook page of the uncovering of the floor panels of the former Somerville Boxing Club that’s located in the basement of the Edgerly Education Center located at 8 Bonair St., in Somerville that have been sealed up and ignored since 1977 and you will notice the old contaminated standing water and oil contaminants residue and oil deposit still existing in this building. Continue reading Are Our Displaced Winter Hill School Children Going From Bad to Worse This Coming Fall?
By William Tauro
Update:Please let me be perfectly clear that the good people of the Somerville Department of Public Works are doing a great job especially under these following conditions:They are understaffed, underpaid and unappreciated for all the hard work that they do! The problem comes from the top with poor leadership leading the way! Continue reading Come on Somerville we’re better than this? 
PSA: Attention residents of Wards 2 and 3. There have been multiple incidents of an unknown male breaking into homes between 12 AM and 6 AM by entering through unlocked first-floor windows. Residents are urged to lock all windows (and doors) overnight, particularly those on the first floor. Continue reading Multiple Somerville Home Break-ins Wards 2 and 3
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
I am a resident of Sartwell Avenue in Somerville that’s located directly across the street from the John F Kennedy School. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Residents Once Again Being Ignored By Mayor and DPW Commissioner Costing Taxpayers a Fortune
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Here they go ripping up the neighborhood’s streets again. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:How many times do they have to dig up the same street over and over again before they get it right?
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Billy go around the city and look at every single tree like this. The city plants them then doesn’t de-weed them. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: It’s more like our leadership has their heads buried in the sand, leaving everyone to fend for themselves
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Even though my home on Edmands Street is directly adjacent to a state road, Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: It’s very obvious that nobody up at City Hall cares about the residents at all
By Bob Katzen
“There is nothing more important than helping people get back up on their feet and 4 Housing is doing great work.”
—Sen. Will Brownsberger (D-Belmont) upon visiting the housing nonprofit Justice 4 Housing that works to empower formerly incarcerated people in their reentry to society. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill Would require any retailer that sells tobacco products to also sell at least one type of nicotine replacement therapy drug or device that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for assisting with helping people quit tobacco use. Continue reading REQUIRE RETAILERS THAT SELL TOBACCO TO ALSO SELL PRODUCTS TO HELP SMOKERS QUIT (S 1341)
By Bob Katzen
This bill Would allow cigarettes and other tobacco products to be sold only in Adult-Only Retail Tobacco Stores or smoking bars. Continue reading SALE OF CIGARETTES TO 21 AND OVER (S 1397)
By Bob Katzen
This bill Would repeal the state’s 2000 law that bans flavored vaping and tobacco products—including mint and menthol cigarettes.
Continue reading REPEAL THE MENTHOL BAN (S 1364)
By Bob Katzen
This bill Would authorize licensed pharmacists to dispense medications to help individuals quit smoking. Continue reading PHARMACISTS AND SMOKING CESSATION MEDICINE (S 1428)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment mandating that the state’s Department of Public Health and Department of Mental Health conduct a study on the occurrence and impact of neonatal abstinence syndrome in the Bay State. Continue reading NEONATAL ABSTINENCE SYNDROME (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would provide $250,000 for the protection of right whales by increasing the patrols of officers to identify and remove abandoned fishing gear and to enhance their ability to enforce speed restrictions through use of drone technologies to minimize potentially harmful interactions between vessels and right whales. Continue reading $250,000 FOR PROTECTION OF RIGHT WHALES (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would provide $300,000 for a municipal grant program for firefighter cancer screenings, including advance blood testing and imaging.
Continue reading $300,000 FOR FIREFIGHTERS’ CANCER SCREENINGS (S 3)
RICHARD’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
HALEY, Richard J. – Of Somerville July 6, 2023. Beloved husband of 57 years to the late Joan (Wiggin) Haley. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard J. Haley
ALEKOS’ OBITUARY
Alekos Kalogeropoulos ,91 of Somerville, Mass. Passed away peacefully on July 4, 2023 surrounded by his family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Alekos Kalogeropoulos
RITA’S OBITUARY
McCarthy, Rita Y (Bergami) – Of Somerville, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on Friday, June 30, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rita Y. McCarthy
JOANNE’S OBITUARY
Anzalone, Joanne E. (Norton)- Of Medford, passed away on July 4th 2023 at Tufts Medical Center after a brief illness. She was 53.
Born and raised in Somerville. She was the daughter of Joanne H. (Murnane) Norton and the late Thomas B. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joanne E. Anzalone
Starting July 5, 2023 applications can be submitted through the City’s Citizenserve online portal
Continue reading City of Somerville Announces Streamlined Application Process for Zoning Relief and Historic Preservations
Funds will help increase respite services for families of youth
with mental health challenges Continue reading Riverside Receives $900,000 Grant to Enhance Respite Care for Somerville and Cambridge Families
WHITEY
White, Christopher Edward (“Whitey”).- Of Tewksbury, passed away on July 5, 2023, after a tragic car accident. He was 40 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Christopher E. White
Rhode Island travelers can experience Newport with thruway connections Continue reading Amtrak Continues Partnership to Offer Ferry Service from Providence to Newport via RIDOT-funded Shuttle
WASHINGTON — The Postal Service is reminding customers that metallic mercury and devices containing metallic mercury are always prohibited in the mail stream. This includes antique items such as thermometers, barometers, blood pressure monitors and similar devices. However, compact fluorescent lamps, which contain small amounts of mercury in vapor form, are mailable domestically but not internationally. Continue reading Mercury Remains Prohibited in The Mail
For Immediate Release —
iplomas. Shortly after that, the student loan repayment process begins. However, scammers are taking advantage of recent changes to student loan repayment programs to confuse borrowers, tricking them into falling for various schemes.
ELLEN’S OBITUARY
Morel, Ellen M. (Donnelly)- Of Hudson, NH, passed away on July 4, 2023 surrounded by her family at the age of 89. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ellen M. Morel
SOMERVILLE – Planning an event in Somerville this summer? Public Event license applications for events before Labor Day must be submitted online by Monday, July 10. Continue reading Applications for Summertime Public Events Licenses Due July 10
Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council invite you to ArtBeat, Somerville’s annual multicultural arts showcase, in Davis Square on Saturday, July 15 (rain date: July 16). Continue reading ArtBeat Returns to Davis Square July 15
Click on link below to see video:https://youtu.be/8TSbhzl1oB0
A Public Round Table Discussion with Candidate for Mayor of Somerville William “Billy” Tauro
Continue reading A Public Round Table Discussion with Candidate for Mayor of Somerville William “Billy” Tauro
Monday, June 26, 2023
U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Massachusetts
BOSTON – A former DePuy Synthes sales representative and team lead was arrested today for allegedly defrauding a Boston area hospital and lied to federal authorities investigating his interference with the hospital’s sterilization processes. Continue reading Winchester Man and Former Medical Device Sales Rep Arrested for Defrauding Boston Hospital and Lying to Federal Authorities
FRED’S
John “Fred” O’Meara, 83 of Reading, MA formerly of Belmont, MA passed away on June 27, 2023.
He was born in Somerville to the late John O’Meara and Alice (Engle). Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John “Fred” O’Meara
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville Prevention, a division of the City of Somerville’s Health and Human Services Department (HHS), are announcing four Narcan Distribution Events happening in Somerville throughout the month of July. The City is partnering with the nonprofit Repair the World to host these potentially life-saving events. Continue reading Somerville Prevention Partnering with Repair the World to Host Multiple Narcan Distribution Events in July
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD), in partnership with 300 Somerville Avenue Realty, LLC and Lacourt Realty, LLC, are pleased to announce an income-restricted rental opportunity of two (2) 2-bedroom apartments. Continue reading City of Somerville Announcing Two Income-Restricted Apartment Rental Opportunities at 300 Somerville Avenue and 124 College Avenue
More than 35 Community Groups Receiving Funds from the City’s American Rescue Plan Act Funds
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne announces the award of $10 million by the City of Somerville to more than 35 local nonprofit groups to help strengthen and grow their organization and programming. The $10 million distribution is part of the City’s investment of its federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation to support community organizations. Continue reading City of Somerville Awards $10 Million to Local Nonprofit Organizations
Residential Breaking & Entering
23034950: On 6/22/23 at approximately 8:24 PM, Somerville Police responded to a residence on Calvin St for report of a past breaking and entering. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated she observed a male party near the door of her bedroom. The suspect then fled out the rear door of the residence. Nothing was reported stolen.
Assault Continue reading Somerville Police Department Crime Log 6/20/2023 – 6/26/2023
By Karen Glover
We always have a total blast every Wed. Nite,
5-8 pm. Soooo much fun…omg. I mean, really, really fun, every second! Face painting, which the kids love… amazing characature artist, animals made from balloons, ice cream, dancing, Jeff Lyons, our incredible so-much-fun DJ. I was having way too much fun, lol, I can’t even remember the last name of this one-in-a-million entertainer, Joey…?…I’ll post his last name later. Continue reading The Legendary Annual Clarendon Hill Towers Wednesday Nite Summer Music Series Kicked off Wednesday Nite!
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Hello Mr Tauro…
I just left my Union Meeting (I work for Cambridge Health Alliance) and wanted to let you know that union nurses at Cambridge, Everett and Somerville Hospitals will be out picketing on Wednesday July 12th. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Nurses at Cambridge, Everett and Somerville Hospitals will be out picketing on Wednesday July 12th
By William Tauro
The Somerville Police Department’s police officers have filed grievance with the Mayor claiming they are being forced to drive unsafe high mileage vehicles. The police cars are operated 24/7 to respond to emergencies and have high mileage. Continue reading Police Officers File Grievance Against Somerville Mayor
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Billy this city is laughable look at this street. It’s not even 2 o’clock school is out yet there’s a shit show everywhere. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville is a Horror Show
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
I remember as a student in 1977 attending the Somerville Technical Trade School auto shop that was located on Otis Street in Somerville. I remember I learned a lot there in that school especially memories that I will cherish forever. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Does Anyone Know if the Old Somerville Tech Trade School Was Ever Professionally Decontaminated Before We Allow Them to Carelessly Place Our Winter Hill Students in There?
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
This is all that you see in Somerville on just about every street in this city. They’re ripping up the streets with no police detail .. rocks flying .. nobody keeping an eye on foot traffic .. bike lanes and cars .. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:We Have Had Enough In the Past Two Years With This Invisible Mayor
Click on link below to read June 27th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
June 27th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
By William Tauro
I was asked this question online:
Poster:clars10 •
So – between now and your last run for mayor and your severe dedication to the city, can you please list what you have been actively involved in to improve Somerville?
My response was: Continue reading I was asked this question online:
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Hey Billy… noticed a guy outside my window putting a hole in the telephone pole. I asked what he was doing since the liquid he was putting in was going all over the ground. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Nobody Is Being Warned of Hazardous Pesticides to Pets
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne invites the Somerville community to kick back and enjoy free outdoor movies this summer. The City of Somerville’s annual SomerMovieFest returns this year with a series of seven family-friendly films being shown in parks around Somerville.
Continue reading SomerMovieFest 2023: Somerville Community Invited to Enjoy Free Outdoor Film Screenings
By Bob Katzen
Special “Who’s Looking At What Edition.” According to the Legislature’s website, here are some of the top bills that visitors to the site are searching. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
Rep. Brandy Fluker Oakley (D-Boston) has proposed a late-filed bill that would create a commission to study and develop proposals for lineage-based reparations programs to redress the harm resulting from the institution of slavery in the state, systemic racism against enslaved people and their descendants; and the lasting effects of slavery and institutional and systemic racism in the Bay State. Continue reading SLAVERY REPARATIONS (H 3921)
By Bob Katzen
The Elections Laws Committee’s hearing also included a proposal that would permit cities and towns to allow non-citizens over age 18 to vote in local municipal elections. The elections in which non-citizens could vote include an election for mayor, school committee, city council, town council, select board, a school committee referendum and a local ballot referendum.
Continue reading ALLOW NON-CITIZENS TO VOTE (H 671)
By Bob Katzen
A bill heard by the Election Laws Committee would allow cities and towns to permit people aged 16- and 17-year to vote in their local city and town elections and presidential primaries. Current law requires that voters be 18.
Continue reading ALLOW 16- AND 17-YEAR-OLD YOUTHS TO VOTE IN LOCAL ELECTIONS (H 3576)
By Bob Katzen
The Economic Development and Emerging Technologies Committee held a hearing on legislation that would establish a special commission to study the financial relationship between Massachusetts businesses and Chinese state-owned companies. Continue reading CHINESE-OWNED COMPANIES IN MASSACHUSETTS (H 413)
By Bob Katzen
The Committee on Public Health held a hearing on proposals that would standardize the date labels on food products sold in the Bay State by establishing two kinds of date labels to mitigate widespread consumer confusion and reduce food waste. Continue reading FOOD LABELS (H 2205/S 1390)
By Bob Katzen
The Economic Development and Emerging Technologies Committee held a hearing on legislation that would create a $500,000 pilot program offering competitive grants to Massachusetts residents who are starting new businesses. Continue reading FUNDING FOR MASSACHUSETTS-BASED RESIDENTS’ STARTUP COMPANIES (S 237)
By William Tauro
It’s a very sad day in Somerville when we have to close the Somerville Boxing Club (SBC). This club kept the kids off the streets and kept them engaged in not just boxing, but a multitude of sports activities that kept these kids on a straight, narrow path since the opening of the club in 1978 by a group of boxers and enthusiasts eager to promote the sport and introduce local youth to the many benefits of training and competition. Continue reading Letter from the Editor:City of Somerville Closes Somerville Boxing Club
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment providing $1 million for the awarding of grants for the development and operation of freestanding birth centers. Priority for funding would be given to birth centers that serve communities historically impacted most by racial inequities in maternal health including high rates of maternal and infant mortality. Continue reading $1 MILLION FOR BIRTH CENTERS (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
$750,000 FOR REGIONAL LIBRARIES (S 3)
Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would increase by $750,000 (from $15,967,600 to $16,717,600) funding for regional libraries. Continue reading THE HOUSE AND SENATE: Beacon Hill Roll Call records local senators’ votes on roll calls from the recent debate on the Senate’s version of a $55.9 billion fiscal 2024 state budget
Teamsters Local 25 distributes $60,000 in scholarships to local students as part of annual scholarship program.
Chloe Randazzo, of Medford, is one of 30 students that was recognized with a $2,000 scholarship as part of the Teamsters Local 25 Memorial Scholarship Awards. The students are children or grandchildren of Local 25 members and retirees planning to attend college in the fall.
Continue reading Chloe Randazzo, of Medford, Awarded Teamsters Local 25 Scholarship
WILLIAM’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
William J. Mahoney (formerly of Arlington) passed away on June 17, 2023 in Cape Coral Florida. He was 89 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William J. Mahoney
MARGARET’S OBITUARY
Tano, Margaret (Badu)- Of Bronx, New York, passed away suddenly on May 3, 2023. She was 53. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Margaret Tano
By Arthur Moore
How many times as kids growing up in Somerville did our mother’s say look both ways before crossing the street. Continue reading Look Both Ways Before Crossing Street
DOROTHY’S OBITUARY:
Dorothy J. (DiMarzo) Montalto, of Somerville, passed away on June 19, 2023, she was 87. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dorothy Jean Montalto
Event hosted by Pathways for Immigrant Workers and the City of Somerville, will be held on July 13, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Connexion, 149 Broadway
SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville and Pathways for Immigrant Workers will host a free immigration legal information session for small employers and lower-wage workers on Wednesday, July 13, 2023, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Connexion located at 149 Broadway. Continue reading Somerville Workers and Small Employers Invited to Attend Employment-Based Residency Information Session
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
FUNDING THE POLICE PETITION FIASCO
Collecting names for a Petition on any issue is certainly an arduous task. It requires much time, energy, patience and ability to condense knowledgeable particulars of an issue into short, impactful verbal sentences. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: FUNDING THE POLICE PETITION FIASCO
PATRICK’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
KEANE, Patrick F. – Of Medford June 23, 2023. Beloved husband of Mary (Kelly) Keane. Complete notice to follow. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patrick F. Keane
WILLIAM’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
Wilson, William V. –Of Somerville, passed away at home on June 21, 2023. He was 88. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William V. Wilson
Get ready for summer fun at the City and Somerville Arts Council’s Fourth of July celebration. Enjoy live music, food, and of course, a big, bold fireworks display. Head to Trum Field on Thursday, June 29, at 6 p.m. (rain date June 30). Learn more at Continue reading City and Somerville Arts Council’s Fourth of July celebration
By William Tauro
Early Wednesday morning a car accident occurred at Saint Ann’s Church that’s located at 399 Medford Street in Somerville. Continue reading Car Crashes Into Saint Ann’s Church Fence
By William Tauro
What a circus show this will be in September. Edgerly Center zero parking plus East Somerville School across the street. It’s unfortunate for the past eight years or more that there has been no scheduled preventive maintenance done to this Winter Hill school to prevent something like this from happening. Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Updates on Plans and Current Work at Winter Hill school
From Karen Glover
Wow…I really had my eyes opened wide today.
I’m constantly intrigued by the array of lackadaisical answers, non-answers, incorrect answers, half-correct answers, or just plain ridiculous answers doled out to me on a regular basis.
As you know, I, along with countless others, are concerned with the deep/wide pothole craters/cracks/bumpy/lumpy/unlevel terrain located at The MBTA/ Clarendon Hill Bus Terminal. Continue reading Letter to the Editor: SOMERVILLE: “MAYOR” KATJANA BALLANTYNE’S PROGRESSIVE VERSION OF THE ASPHALT JUNGLE!
Click on link below to read June 20th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 20th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading June 20th 2023 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Happy 1st Birthday RJ Menard. He is the son of Rodney & Samantha (Florentino) Menard, nephew of Tim & Ashley Florentino AND grandson of one VERY PROUD Grams Kathy Florentino!! Continue reading Happy 1st Birthday RJ Menard from Billy Tauro and all your friends at the Somerville/Medford News Weekly! 🎂
By William Tauro
In this week’s Lawyers Weekly. What a joke the city looks like. AND where is the additional $26,528,000.00 million coming from?
City undervalues parcel taken for new public safety building Continue reading Jury Trial Orders Mayor, City of Somerville to Pay $35.3 Million Lawsuit over Eminent Domain Taking at Cobble Hill
By William Tauro
On the new Somerville MA Political Discussion Page I was asked a series of questions, and I would like to share my replies! And I strongly suggest that you check out this Somerville MA Political Discussion Page where they let you speak the truth, produce facts and voice your opinions without being censored nor blocked! 
Poster ask question:
William Tauro thank you. As a voter I’m tired of punch lists that generalize a host of goals. It’s what every candidate does. What of the 24 items you have listed are your top 5 priorities and how do you plan on accomplishing them?
Everything proposed costs money. We already know residents are taxed every which way. Do your plans include tax increases to execute? If not, what parts of the current city budget will be reallocated to achieve your goals?
My response to his last question: Continue reading Tauro Asked: What of the 24 items you have listed are your top 5 priorities and how do you plan on accomplishing them?
By Bob Katzen
“Recently, multiple news articles, op-eds, and think tank reports have asserted that Massachusetts is suffering an exodus of households, particularly high-income households, fleeing to states with lower taxes. A closely related claim is that outmigrants are taking billions of dollars out of the Massachusetts economy when they leave. These claims about income migration are both overblown and based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the available data.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
The Judiciary Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would impose up to a five-year prison sentence and/or $10,000 fine on anyone who discharges an assault weapon, firearm, large capacity weapon, machine gun, rifle, sawed-off shotgun or shotgun into a dwelling. Under current law this crime is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a 30-day jail sentence and/or $100 fine.
Continue reading SHOOTING AT A HOUSE OR APARTMENT (H 1681)
By Bob Katzen
The Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities Committee held a hearing on legislation that would provide financial assistance to some human service workers to repay their student loans. Under the program, human service workers who work 12 consecutive months for a minimum of 35 hours per week and who have an individual income of no more than $50,000 can qualify for loan repayment of up to $150 per month for up to 48 months. Continue reading LOAN REPAYMENT ASSISTANCE FOR HUMAN SERVICE WORKERS (H 214)
By Bob Katzen
The Elder Affairs Committee held a hearing on a measure that would impose an additional $2,500 fine on anyone who is convicted of perpetrating a financial or other fraud against a person if the person is a senior or disabled individual. Continue reading FINANCIAL SCAMS AGAINST SENIORS AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (H 613)
By Bob Katzen
The Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would allow for the sale of alcohol on Thanksgiving. Continue reading ALLOW ALCOHOL SALES ON THANKSGIVING (H 353)
By Bob Katzen
The Emergency Preparedness and Management Committee held a hearing on legislation that would prohibit the state, cities and towns from requiring proof of vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of entry to any public buildings including state and local government buildings, all public and private schools and colleges and private businesses. Continue reading PROHIBIT REQUIRING PROOF OF COVID-19 VACCINATION (H 734)
By Bob Katzen
The House and Senate set Saturday, August 12 and Sunday, August 13 as this year’s Sales Tax Holiday. This will allow consumers to buy most products that cost under $2,500 on those two days without paying the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax. This annual sales-tax-free weekend was made permanent in 2018 and gives the Legislature the authority to set the dates by June 15 each year.
Continue reading SALES TAX HOLIDAY ON AUGUST 12 AND 13
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 exempt from the value of a person’s estate from 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 9-30, rejected an amendment to a section of the bill that funds the Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP). The amendment would require that HDIP projects must make 25 percent of their units affordable.
Continue reading 25 PERCENT MUST BE AFFORDABLE HOUSING (S 2397)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved a package that provides $590 million in tax relief. The House has already approved its own tax reduction package and a House-Senate conference committee will hammer out a compromise version.
Continue reading SENATE APPROVES $590 MILLION TAX REDUCTION PACKAGE (S 2397)
Adopted in January, the new building energy code has stricter requirements for energy efficiency and all-electric construction
Virtual information session for property owners on June 14 Continue reading New Specialized Energy Code Takes Effect July 1 in Somerville
Partnership with CAAS will deliver 500 unlimited MBTA passes to residents not served by other transit benefit programs
Pilot program is the latest of several transit equity initiatives Somerville has undertaken this year, fully funding more than 4,000 passes for residents, students, families, and workers
Continue reading Somerville Issues Free Transit Passes to Low-Income Residents
SCAM ALERT
BBB in Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT —
Moving this summer? Watch out for a new twist on fake rental ads. According to multiple BBB Scam Tracker reports, scammers use fake tenant credit checks to trick potential renters into compromising sensitive personal information.
How the scam works Continue reading BBB Scam Alert: How to spot a credit check scam when apartment shopping
Jones, Lawrence G. “Larry”—Of Somerville, passed away after a lengthy illness surrounded by his family and friends on Tuesday, June 13, 2023. He was 63 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lawrence G. “Larry” Jones
Why wasn’t CW TV actor Grant Gustin in the Flash movie? It will probably haunt Warner Brothers as this is actually the best DC/Warner Brothers superhero film of everything they’ve tried, including Aquaman and Wonder Woman. Continue reading THE FLASH REVIEW BY JOE VIGLIONE
Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville will host a Fourth of July fireworks celebration at Trum Field on Thursday, June 29 (rain date: Friday, June 30).
Continue reading Somerville’s Annual Fireworks Display Planned for June 29
By Arthur Moore
Heath Street was closed down today. And no parking on it. And that with the parking lost due to the Broadway Winter Hill failure there were many places lost to park in. Continue reading Parking Tickets cha ching in Winter Hill Today
EDWARD’S OBITUARY
U.S. Veteran
Edward W. Robillard, 92, a lifelong Somerville resident, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2023. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Edward W. Robillard
SOMERVILLE_On Sunday, June 11th, members of the Kiwanis Club of Somerville participated in the East Somerville Main Streets, Carnival celebration. Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Club Bike Safety Day Distributes Bike Helmets to Children
Annarita Petrosillo-McNeeley, of Everett and formerly of Somerville, passed away suddenly at home on June 14, 2023, she was 53. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Annarita Petrosillo-McNeeley
Remembering my son, Brian Christopher Long
This Father’s Day weekend, please take a moment to remember – Never underestimate what we can learn from our children.
Rest in Peace, Brian. We all love you.
Brian Christopher Long, 51, of Boston and Provincetown, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, at Massachusetts General Hospital after a lifelong courageous battle with Cystic Fibrosis.
Brian was raised in Tewksbury, by his mother Pierrette Long, along with his father Robert ‘Bob’ Long and Brian’s loving step-mother, Muriel Long. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Brian Christopher Long
Bridget Anne “Bridie” (Mulkerrin) Naughton
July 30, 1953 — June 13, 2023
Dorchester
Of Dorchester, formerly of Callowfeenish, Carna, Co. Galway, Ireland, died June 13, 2023.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bridget Anne “Bridie” (Mulkerrin) Naughton
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
I have many families from MHS, along with teachers and students on my Facebook page so I wanted to make sure you all saw this email that was sent out by Paul D. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Let the boys in blue deal with REAL criminals!
MARGARET’S OBITUARY
Margaret F. (Breen) Benson, a longtime resident of Somerville passed away on Sunday, June 11, 2023, she was 92. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Margaret F. Benson
These are the deplorable living conditions that our Somerville Firefighters have to live in on a daily basis at the Teele Square Fire Station! Continue reading Deplorable Living Conditions at Somerville Fire Department
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Now the older kids near the high school are shooting birds with bee bee guns near the YMCA. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Birds Being Shot on Highland Avenue With Bee Bee Guns
Last night’s Budget Hearing ran for over 4 hours, here is my comment in case you didn’t catch it.
The Winter Hill building is a mark of shame on us all. How long will we continue to bear this shame? Over a year ago the City Council invited Somerville Educators Union – SEU members to testify about the state of the building. In response Mayor Katjana Ballantyne added a study to the budget. I am not sure what we need to study. The list of issues with the building goes on and on and on and on and it is beyond clear to anyone paying attention that the next step is to build a new building. Continue reading Rami Bridge’s Message From Last Week’s Somerville Budget Hearing:
Robbery
23030330: On 6/1/23 at approximately 11:17 AM, Somerville Police responded to CVS in Davis Sq for report of an armed robbery. Upon arrival, officers spoke with an employee who stated a male party entered the store wearing a Halloween mask then brandished a firearm and demanded money. Shortly after, officers received a report of a robbery in progress at Chipotle nearby. Officers responded and located a male party who matched the description of the suspect in the CVS robbery. He attempted to flee but was quickly apprehended. Officers recovered a fake gun and two knives from his backpack. He was placed under arrest.
Continue reading How safe do you feel in Somerville? Your thoughts? Somerville People Department Crime Log
Click on link below to read June 13th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 13th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading June 13th 2023 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
A bear was spotted wandering around Arlington. Residents received an IMMEDIATE Robo Call which immediately alerted the residents to take proper safety precautions… Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Immediate Emergency Response Warnings a Must
By Bob Katzen
“As a community, we must ensure our young people are working in safe and healthy environments. Whether it be for a summer job or year-round, younger workers – particularly those in low-income, immigrant communities and communities of color – are vulnerable to poorer working conditions and exploitation.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would establish drug repository program which would allow people to donate their unused medications, excluding controlled substances, and permit them to be redistributed to individuals who need them and cannot afford them.
Continue reading ALLOW SOME UNUSED DRUGS TO BE DONATED (H 1208)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would prohibit insurance companies from discriminating against a customer based on gender identity.
Continue reading PROHIBIT DISCRIMINATION AGAINST GENDER IDENTITY OF INDIVIDUALS IN INSURANCE POLICIES (H 1089)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would set a cap on the fees check-cashing stores and outlets are allowed to charge. Continue reading LIMIT FEE FOR CASHING CHECKS (H 344)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would allow businesses to qualify for a tax credit of up to $150,000 if they provide onsite day care for their employees. The tax credit would be equal to 25 percent of the costs of providing the day care.
Continue reading TAX CREDIT TO BUSINESSES THAT OFFER DAY CARE (H 2779)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would exclude from consumer credit reports information about medical debt arising from the receipt of health care services.
Continue reading EXCLUDE MEDICAL DEBT FROM CREDIT REPORTS (H 284)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an increase of $1 million (from $11.8 to $12.8 million) for elder nutrition programs including Meals on Wheels.
Continue reading $1 MILLION FOR ELDER NUTRITION (S 3)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would fund $1,526,000 for Court-Appointed Special Advocates, (CASAs) which are specially trained volunteers who represent the best interests of foster children in legal proceedings.
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved a $250,000 increase (from $1,036,958 to $1,286,958) for organizations that provide programs to assist legal permanent residents of Massachusetts in becoming citizens of the United States. Continue reading HELP IMMIGRANTS TO APPLY FOR U.S. CITIZENSHIP (S 3)
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Below is my letter to the Somerville City Council
Dear Council Members,
Thank you for your service to the community and for hearing the various concerns of Somerville residents. Currently we understand the budget is being reviewed. As residents our top priority issue is the proposed defunding of the police. Two police programs have been attacked. First, the neighborhood bicycle police defunded in a previous year; secondly, the proposed defunding of the COHR PROGRAM. Continue reading Letter to the Editor:City Councilors Defunding the Police
If Found Report to 911, Do Not Handle
SOMERVILLE—On Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at approximately 1:18 PM, the Somerville Police Department responded to the area of Edward Leathers Park and the Somerville High School for a report of two males armed with firearms. Continue reading Somerville Police Firearm Safety Warning Possible Firearm Sought Near Somerville High School
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division are pleased to announce that applications are now open for 41 income-restricted rental units at Arris (20 Inner Belt Rd. & 56 Roland St.) in the Inner Belt/Brickbottom neighborhood, available through the City of Somerville’s Inclusionary Housing Program. Continue reading Applications Open for 41 Income-Restricted Rental Units at Arris
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division, in partnership with 395 ABP LLC, are pleased to announce an income-restricted homeownership lottery for four affordable condominium units at The Parkway 395 (395 Alewife Brook Parkway).
Continue reading Four Affordable Homeownership Opportunities: 395 Alewife Brook Parkway
JOHN’S OBITUARY
John S. Beattie passed away suddenly at his Somerville home on June 6, 2023, he was 64. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John S. Beattie
Albert L. Libardoni, (86) a longtime resident of Arlington, passed away on Sunday, June 4, 2023 at Mount Auburn Hospital. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Albert L. Libardoni
Long-Awaited Community Path Extension Will Open June 10
Somerville Collaborating with MBTA to Install Additional Lighting
Path Will Temporarily Remain Closed Between School Street and Gilman Square Green Line Entrance to Accommodate Somerville High School Reavis Field Construction Continue reading City of Somerville Sharing Community Path Extension Opening Details
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