Click on link below to read September 13th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online September 13th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Click on link below see video:

https://youtu.be/Hy1Rwa8LEro

As posted on Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn’s Facebook page

Medford is steeped in history of our nation’s founding and today we added to that legacy by unveiling a historical marker commemorating Revolutionary War hero General Lafayette’s Farewell Tour in 1824. Continue reading Medford-Revolutionary War hero General Lafayette’s Farewell Tour in 1824 →

By Bob Katzen

“An Act to end child marriage in Massachusetts is a great step forward that now protects young women and girls from entering into a marriage contract before the age of 18, the age of majority.” Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Bill (H 574) – Would require that in order to graduate from high school, students must correctly answer at least 60 of the 100 questions listed on a civics test that is identical to the civics portion of the naturalization test used by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services for immigrants aspiring to become naturalized citizens. A students who does not pass the test on the first try is allowed to take the test as many times as he or she wants until he or she passes it. Continue reading STUDENTS MUST PASS CIVICS TEST TO GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL →

By Bob Katzen

Bill (H 595) – Would require public schools to teach students the history of working people and the labor movement in the United States.
Continue reading SCHOOLS MUST TEACH ABOUT THE HISTORY OF WORKING PEOPLE AND THE LABOR MOVEMENT →

By Bob Katzen

Bill (H 25) – Would require financial education to be offered in all Bay State schools and establish a trust fund to finance course materials and teaching resources as needed.
Continue reading SCHOOLS MUST OFFER FINANCIAL EDUCATION TO STUDENTS →

By Bob Katzen

Bill (H 659) – Would require school districts, at the beginning of each school years to provide parents or guardians of students from kindergarten through twelfth grade information about each standardized assessment test that will be given during that school year including the date of the assessment; the estimated time a student will take to complete each assessment; whether students will be required to take assessments online, or have the option of paper and pencil; and the availability of appropriate accommodations for students with disabilities and English language learners, which will be translated for non-English speaking parents into their preferred language. Continue reading INFORM PARENTS ABOUT STANDARDIZED ASSESSMENT TESTS →

By Bob Katzen

(H 634) – Would establish an 11-member task force to review all existing state mandates placed on public schools. In addition to determining the cost of these unfunded mandates for budgeting purposes, the task force would also develop recommendations to streamline, consolidate or eliminate any mandates and reporting requirements that are outdated, duplicative or unnecessary.
Continue reading SCHOOL MANDATES →

By Bob Katzen

This bill would establish a 14-member commission to research the best way of acquiring technology for Massachusetts students, including how to incentivize companies to take part in a program to provide personal computers or tablets to students. As part of its research, the commission will review the current policies in place to provide students with a personal computer or tablet and the barriers to providing all students with one. It would also evaluate the effect on benefits or drawbacks to providing students with a personal computer or tablet and its effects on the digital divide. Continue reading COMPUTERS FOR ALL STUDENTS (H 637) →

By Bob Katzen

Several bills affecting public schools and education were sent to a study committee where bills are rarely actually studied and are essentially defeated. It is a way to kill a proposal without holding a vote on the bill itself. Here are some of the education bills that were sent off to a study committee: Continue reading EDUCATION BILLS SENT TO A STUDY COMMITTEE →

By Bob Katzen

The momentum of labor, including the growth of unions and the increased leverage of workers, is reshaping the traditional workplace dynamic In Massachusetts and beyond. Continue reading U.S. LABOR SECRETARY MARTY WALSH TALKS UNIONS AND THE FUTURE →

By Karen Glover

The enthusiastic response from The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Readers to continuous weekly  articles revealing the secretive tactics of the MBTA and The Mayor’s Office, i.e. their mutual avoidance to transparently share vital information to our community, is propelling increasing numbers of petition signers to take action and spread the word to quickly sign the petition. Continue reading THE WORD IS OUT! MORE AND MORE SOMERVILLE, MA BUS RIDERS MEET ON BROADWAY,THE CLARENDON HILL BUS TERMINAL SITE, TO SIGN MBTA BOGUS BUS PROPOSAL PETITION →

On Saturday, September 10, 2022, at 12:49 P.M., Somerville Police control received a call from the Row Hotel management reporting a guest had used someone else’s reward points to book a room.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Oluwatomide OLOYEDE (Defraud Innkeeper, Larceny) →

SOMERVILLE, MA – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville City Council invite residents to attend the fall Community Meetings of 2022. After a hiatus during the pandemic, this twice-yearly meeting series, formerly known as the ResiStat program, will return to each of Somerville’s seven wards to share the latest City progress and neighborhood updates with residents, while also providing an opportunity for residents, elected officials, and City staff to talk with one Continue reading FALL 2022 SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED FOR COMMUNITY MEETINGS WITH MAYOR BALLANTYNE Meetings for All Seven Wards Will Be Held in October →

On Tuesday, August 30, 2022, at 1:35 PM while changing a flat tire on a disabled vehicle outside Saks Off 5th on Grand Union Blvd., I saw a Saks store employee/witness (XXXX) attempting to stop a male shoplifter who was running away from him with merchandise in his hands.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Larceny) Arrest →

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

…I guess it’s some dire necessity to cause the removal of the glass enclosure used to sit, wait for the bus and be protected from the elements on Holland St., a few steps from The Senior Center. In addition, to further enhance this utterly deranged “redesign,” the bus stop sign has been removed from its secure position on the ample sidewalk and placed on a skinny island on this now supercrowded, lumpy, cement blobbed out street…so enjoy waiting by this bus sign, getting soaking wet, and then maybe getting clobbered by a bus, car, or truck…take ur pic…if you don’t get splattered all over the street, considerate it a miracle! Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Removal of the glass enclosure used to sit, wait for the bus and be protected from the elements on Holland St. →

At approximately 8:40am on Friday September 9, 2022 the Medford Police responded to the Brookline Bank at 201 Salem St. Medford, Ma for a bank robbery. The Suspect is a black male who is approximately 5’5” – 5’ 7” tall, medium build, wearing a dark blue hooded sweat shirt with the hood pulled up and covering his forehead to his eyes. He also wore a light blue medical type mask to help conceal his identity. We believe he is approximately 50 – 57 years old. No weapon was shown or implied. Continue reading Medford Unarmed Bank Robbery →

SOMERVILLE – On Thursday, September 8th, the members of the Somerville Kiwanis Club gathered at the Mount Vernon Restaurant for the first joint meeting of District Kiwanis Clubs as well as local Service clubs since 2019. The annual gathering,, known as an Interclub Meeting, has not been held due to the restrictions and concerns caused by the Covid 19 pandemic. Kiwanis members from East Boston, Malden and Medford and Greater Boston Young Professionals and members of the Somerville Rotary Club and Lions Club attended the celebration which was themed, Halfway to Saint Patrick’s Day.

Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Club Welcomes New Member at District Interclub →

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

Hi Billy I wanted to ask a big favor of you. I was wondering if you could share my go fund me for my dad & family. They’re house caught fire on Monday morning 9/5/22 & they lost everything. My dad didn’t own the home & unfortunately he did not have renters insurance either. Here is the link Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: They’re house caught fire on Monday morning 9/5/22 & they lost everything →

PATRICIA’S OBITUARY

MORTELL, Patricia A. (Rowland) – Of Plymouth formerly of Somerville September 2, 2022 Surrounded by her family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Patricia A. Mortell →

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

💥 Teacher Negotiating has been called off😪

Here we have it another slap in the face to Medford teachers and the good old administration trying to be sneaks only posting to one website, this important information. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Medford Teacher Negotiating has been called off →

BULLEN, Christopher – Of Somerville August 31, 2022.
Beloved son of Sarah Bullen and the late Thomas Bullen. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Christopher Bullen →

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

Can you help Patrick raise money for Somerville High School Football by sharing this message on Facebook or Twitter? Thank you! Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Patrick is raising money for Somerville High School Football →

“Chappie” went missing yesterday(09/06/22) in the area of Bailey Rd and Temple Rd. Please contact us with any information at 617-625-6600 ext 2190. Thank you! Continue reading Somerville Animal Control Updates: MISSING CATS →

Cost: $40 per person, dinner included, Cash bar.
$50 after Nov 4, 2022
Payment methods:
Paypal: mbmbrennan44@qmail.com (put name in note)
Venmo: QR code below (put name in note)
Check: made out to SHS Class of 1982 Continue reading SHS Class of 1982 Reunion →

Francesco Nicola Vigorito, Jr. , of Reading, beloved son of Frank and Jeanette (Quiles) Vigorito, passed away on Monday, September 5th, 2022, surrounded by his loving and devoted family, at the age of 21. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Frankie N. Vigorito, Jr. →

Click on link below to read September 6th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online September 6th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1) (1)

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

Teresa Lopez and her husband, Jerry, enjoy life in their newly-renovated apartment at Clarendon Hill Towers. Due to their mobility issues, the couple was transferred to a handicapped apartment which features special amenities for the disabled. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: “FASTEN YOUR SEATBELTS…WE’RE IN FOR A BUMPY RIDE” →

By Karen Grover

Last Wednesday, August 31st, tenants at Clarendon Hill Towers were treated to another great night of happiness at its Music Nite Series, created by our Resident Services Coordinators, Jessie and Wesmyne. During intermission, Karen Glover, CHT Tenant and Rep. of Somerville Bus Riders Take Action Committee, addressed the crowd with remarks concerning progress made relative to petition signing goal as follows: Continue reading SOMERVILLE PETITION SIGNING PROGRESS REPORT AT CLARENDON HILL TOWERS MUSIC NITE! “FACE THE MUSIC?” →

VACCARO, Josephine F. – Of Somerville September 4, 2022. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Josephine F. Vaccaro →

Susan Rogers Obituary:
July 1, 1960 – August 7, 2022

Rogers, Susan 62 a life long Somerville resident passed away on August 7,2022. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Susan Rogers →

Kangas, Mary, V. of Medford, September 2, 2022
Daughter of the late John & Katherine Hudd of Somerville. Sister of the late John Hudd of Winthrop and his late wife Eleanor.
Her Late Husband Robert Kangas of Medford. Her daughter Rosemary Portrait & Late Husband William of Medford. Late Son Kris Kangas, Eric Kangas of Medford, Kurt Kangas and his Wife Jill Sweet of Shelburne Vt. Daughter-In-Law Felina Robinson of Brookline and her now husband Joseph Robinson.
Her Grandchildren: Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary V. Kangas →

Joan A. (Cordice) Barowski, of Somerville, passed away on August 27, 2022, she was 78. Born in Portland, Maine she was the cherished daughter of the late Eleanor M. (Hatch) and Frankie Cordice. Joan had a successful career for 22 years at the MWRA and and a proud member of the Steelworkers Union Local 9360″ Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joan A. (Cordice) Barowski →

By Bob Katzen

“The industry has grown rapidly since the voters legalized recreational cannabis in 2016, topping $3 billion in sales this past spring. While the law was intended to create new economic opportunities for diverse communities and those previously harmed by harsh drug laws, this promise has not been fully achieved, leaving many aspiring equity entrepreneurs with a very challenging pathway to achieve the success that larger corporate interests have enjoyed.”
—Former State Treasurer Shannon O’Brien on her appointment as chairperson of the Cannabis Control Commission. Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Would allow insurance companies to offer discounts to drivers who complete a marijuana impairment education course offered by driving schools and insurance companies. Continue reading ALLOW INSURANCE DISCOUNTS FOR DRIVERS WHO TAKE A COURSE IN MARIJUANA IMPAIRMENT →

By Bob Katzen

Would prohibit driving with an expired inspection sticker from being counted as a surchargeable offense. Under Bay State law, surchargeable offenses can lead to temporary higher insurance premiums. In additional the state will immediately suspend or revoke a learner’s permit or driver’s license for 60 days if a driver has accumulated seven surchargeable offenses or moving violations within a 3-year period. Continue reading PROHIBIT EXPIRED INSPECTION STICKER FROM BEING A SURCHARGEABLE OFFENSE →

By Bob Katzen

Last week, several bills affecting auto insurance rates, surcharges and premiums were sent to a study committee where bills are rarely actually studied and are essentially defeated. It is a way to kill a proposal without holding a vote on the bill itself. Here are some of the bills that were sent off to a study committee.
———— Continue reading AUTO INSURANCE BILLS SENT TO A STUDY COMMITTEE →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Charlie Baker filed a $1.6 billion supplemental budget to close out the books on fiscal year 2022. A key section sets aside $2.9 billion of the state’s projected surplus to be returned to taxpayers based on the recent “discovery” of 62F, a 1986 law approved by the voters. That law requires that tax revenue above a certain amount collected by the state go back to the taxpayers. It is estimated that the 1986 law would return $2.9 billion in fiscal year 2022 revenue to Massachusetts taxpayers. Continue reading 2.9 BILLION IN TAX RELIEF PENDING (H 5260) →

Kellie (Vye) Kelley of Medford, formally of Somerville passed away on August 30th2022. Kellie is the beloved wife of Patrick Kelley of Medford, mother of Scott Carty of Boston, Eric Avery of Woburn, beloved grandmother of 3. Daughter of the late John (Chickie) Vye and Anne (Maxwell) Vye of Arlington. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kellie (Vye) Kelley →

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

Hi Billy,

I thought you might be interested in this. I went to early voting on Monday. When I got there I was told that I was on the inactive voting list( as my husband and son were also). Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Voting Issues →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 1 City Councilor Matt McLaughlin, and City of Somerville staff invite you to a virtual public meeting about expanding the Glen Street Community Garden in East Somerville. The City is finalizing plans to expand the existing community garden into an adjacent vacant lot at 5 Palmer Avenue, more than doubling its current size and adding approximately 15 new, appropriately sized plots that will be manageable for gardeners of all skill levels. The expansion will also feature accessible garden beds, water hookups, a shed, and some shaded gathering areas. Continue reading Glen Street Community Garden Expansion Public Meeting, September 7 →

‘Strike Up the Bands’ at SomerStreets on Highland Avenue, September 11
Free Open Streets event to feature live music, family-friendly activities, and more

Come sing along at “Strike up the Bands,” the next installment of Somerville’s SomerStreets festival series on Sunday, September 11, from 2 to 6 p.m. Programming will extend along Highland Avenue between Central Street and Lowell Street, including:
Continue reading SomerStreets Festival on Highland Ave., 9/11 →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services invite residents to a pair of events to mark National Suicide Prevention Week and the anniversary of 9/11. Continue reading Somerville to Host Veterans Wellness Event and 9/11 Memorial Ceremony →

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

The more I see the lack of leadership and the overwhelming stupidity and favoritism for self-gain political games in and around Somerville, the more I’m upset that you were cheated out of the election. Please run for mayor again and save Somerville.

Susan Namanski
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Somerville Is In Political Shambles →

“The FTA report is an important wake-up call for our Commonwealth. Massachusetts needs a world-class public transit system. Good public transit is a benefit to everyone in the region because it has the potential to touch so many people in positive ways. It’s good for economic justice, environmental justice, and racial justice. Continue reading Statement from Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne Regarding the FTA MBTA Report: →

After 21 years of serving the public, Assistant Library Director Kathleen Kane is officially calling it a career.

I stopped by her retirement party today and thanked her for all the tremendous work she has done for the community. The Medford Public Library will not be the same without her. Continue reading A Message From Medford Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn:After 21 years of serving the public, Medford Assistant Library Director Kathleen Kane is officially calling it a career →

Mr. Richard E. Payzant, of Somerville, passed away on August 27, 2022,he was 87. Born and raised in Cambridge, he was the son of the late Hilda (Swallow) and Earl Payzant. A graduate of Rindge Technical High School he also enlisted in the Army during the Vietnam War. He was a recipient of the Army Occupation of Berlin and Good Conduct medals. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard E. Payzant →

By William Tauro

With the month long closure of the MBTA’s Orange Line and some parts of the Green Line and their stations closed, after somebody drinks that morning cup of coffee or someone has a hardy lunch during the day, where do commuters going to and from work go to the bathroom? Continue reading Letter from the Editor:Where Do We Pee While Using The “T”? →

Click on link below to read August 30th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online August 30th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

On Tuesday, August 23, 2022
The Highland Gardens Tenant Association held a Petition-signing event in their community room. It’s still decorated with an eyecatching flamenco backdrop from theirJuly fun-filled Hawaiian Luau Extravaganza. Continue reading Petition Signing at Highland Gardens – An Ongoing Great Success! If It Ain’t Broke, don’t fix it.” →

“Ceni” went missing on 08/25/22 in the area of Maine Ave. She is microchipped but not wearing a collar. Please contact us with any information at 617-625-6600 ext 2190. Thank you! Continue reading Somerville Animal Control Updates: MISSING CAT! →

By Bob Katzen

“This spending plan supports a sector that has shown both incredible resilience and incredible need over the past two years. Through this plan we will see public dollars directed further and more broadly and equitably than ever before at a time when support is vital to the cultural sector’s recovery and growth.” Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent the Senate a bill designating the month of October as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.
Continue reading ADOPT A SHELTER DOG MONTH (H 3102) →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Baker announced plans to soon file a $40 million package to fund investments in school safety initiatives to support programming, training and resources for schools and districts across the state. Continue reading GOV. BAKER SET TO FILE BILL PROPOSING INVESTMENTS IN SCHOOL SAFETY →

By Bob Katzen

A law that that would require the state to develop and implement a Women’s Rights History Trail Program took effect last week. The measure includes requiring the state to designate properties and sites that are historically and thematically associated with the struggle for women’s rights and women’s suffrage. Continue reading CREATING WOMEN’S RIGHTS HISTORY TRAIL PROGRAM →

By Bob Katzen

It looks like the new law that would allow, starting July 1, 2023, undocumented/illegal immigrants to apply for a Massachusetts standard driver’s license is going to be on the November ballot for voters to decide whether to repeal it or leave it intact. Continue reading A CAMPAIGN UNDERWAY TO REPEAL THE NEW LAW ALLOWING DRIVER’S LICENSE FOR UNDOCUMENTED/ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS →

On Sunday, August 28, 2022, at 8:13 PM, I, Officer Richard Lavey III, was travelling eastbound on Somerville Ave, in a fully marked cruiser, behind a gray Lexus sedan (MA REG# XXXX). The driver of the Lexus, later identified as Brian SOARES, stops at the traffic signal at the intersection of Somerville Ave and Prospect St. in the left turn only lane with his left blinker on. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Unlicensed Operation) (Framingham Warrants) Arrest →

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

Recently attended a function at the Mt. Vernon Restaurant on Broadway. For as long as I can remember, which is many, many years, there were 2 Handicap Accessible parking spaces to frequent the local business, 1 on Broadway and 1 on the side street. They are no longer there just to accommodate a bus lane! Once again, this make believe mayor does not care for the elderly and the disabled’. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Handicap Parking Taken From The Elderly and Disabled →

By Arthur Moore

This got started by one of the ladies from Angel moms whose child was killed by an illegal immigrant. Regardless of people showing up trying to stop them from collecting signatures which is illegal they managed to get double the amount needed to get it on the ballot. Continue reading The people finally getting a say in the licenses for illegal immigrants →

OBITUARY
Dudley, Ronald C. – Of Somerville, passed away on Wednesday, August 24, 2022. He was 76. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ronald C. Dudley →

In recognition of International Overdose Awareness Day on Wednesday, August 31, and Recovery Month in September, the City of Somerville will plant 15 purple flags on the City Hall lawn in memory of the 15 Somerville residents who died of an opioid-related overdose in 2021. A larger flag will also be on display in recognition of all Somerville residents who have died of an overdose. City Hall will be illuminated with purple lights through September to bring awareness to Recovery Month. Continue reading City of Somerville to Mark International Overdose Awareness Day, Recovery Month →

Mr. Joseph G. Carver, a resident of Medford and beloved husband of Holly J. (Heil) Carver, passed away suddenly on Friday evening, August 19, 2022. He was 51 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph G. Carver →

Michele Rae (Chute) Goode – of Somerville, died unexpectedly, August 19th, at fifty- six years of age. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Michele Rae (Chute) Goode →

Residential Breaking & Entering
22045676: On 8/16/22 at approximately 3:01 PM, Somerville Police responded to a residence on Glen St for report of a past breaking and entering. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated when he returned home from work, he noticed his door had been smashed in and several belongings were stolen.
Continue reading Somerville Police Department Updates →

James E. Ribeiro, age 67, of Woburn formerly of Somerville passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, Friday, August 19, 2022. He was the loving companion for 30 years of Karen Spinosa. James is also survived by his loving children, Jimmy Ribeiro of Medford, Ronnie Ribeiro of Lexington, Gina and her husband Peter Bratton of Medford, and his son from a previous marriage, James Tongen of Montana. Born in Somerville he was one of six sons of the late Gilbert and Florence (Otis) Ribeiro. He was the brother of Robert Ribeiro and his partner Kevin Moore of Boston, Ronald Ribeiro and his partner Gianna Poirier of Leominster, Richard Ribeiro and his wife Donna of Somerville and the late Steven and Gilbert Ribeiro. He is further survived by many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Former Somerville Police Officer James E. Ribeiro →

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

This is a trail of email communications between Somerville Resident Claire Gibbins and Somerville City Councilor Jake Wilson regarding “Proposed Permit Fees for Parking”

CLAIRE’S FINAL RESPONSE TO SOMERVILLE CITY COUNCILOR JAKE WILSON ON HIS RESPONSE:

From: Claire
Date: August 23, 2022 at 7:26:51 PM EDT
To: Jake Wilson
Subject: Re: Proposed Permit Fees for Parking

I found your post to be immature and irresponsible.  You posted this and went on vacation so that residents could not get in touch with you.  Your stupidity sent me into a severe panic/anxiety attack which could have easily led to a heart attack!  I believe you should be REMOVED from the council for your immature behavior add that to your Calendly!

Claire Goodwin

Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Proposed Permit Fees for Parking Communications Gone Wrong Between Somerville Resident and Somerville City Councilor Jake Wilson →

Free, blank CharlieCards are now available at all Somerville library locations (Central, East, and West branches) during regular hours, while supplies last. Here’s how you can utilize them during the Orange and Green Line shutdown:
Continue reading Somerville Charlie Cards Available →

The Somerville/Medford News Weekly would like to wish lifelong Somerville resident Louise Sabella a Happy 97th Birthday! Happy Birthday and many happy returns of the day. May all your wishes come true! Continue reading Happy 97th Birthday Somerville Resident Louise Sabella →

Pictured members of the Kiwanis Club of Somerville and many of the PUMA volunteers.

Second photo of 204 backpacks ready for distribution

SOMERVILLE_ For the third year, members of the Kiwanis Club of Somerville delivered over 200 backpacks filled with school supplies to middle and high school students who are most in need of assistance. The students who will receive these backpacks will be identified by the Somerville Parent Information Center and the administrators at Prospect Hill Academy. Continue reading Somerville Kiwanis Club Delivers Over 200 Backpacks Filled With School Supplies To Middle and High School Students →

Click on link below to read August 23rd, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Highland Gardens, 114 Highland Avenue, is a federal senior/young disabled housing complex. Among its amenities are spacious balconies. Outside the complex are comfortable benches surrounded by a very aesthetic landscape design.
The tenants quickly acknowledge how ideal it is to have the MBTA #89 bus stop right outside the complex! The direct bus route offers easy access to Davis Square and Lechmere Station. Needless to say, this direct route pleases everybody!
The Highland Gardens Tenant Association is extremely active, not only in sponsoring memorable in-house Holiday Parties and Festivities, but its Officers also keep abreast of current affairs, policy-making and relevant announcements in Somerville. Continue reading HIGHLAND GARDENS TENANT ASSOCIATION MOBILIZE THE COMMUNITY AROUND MBTA PETITION SIGNING PROCESS →

By Arthur Moore

Once again Somerville has chosen to be as despicable as possible. On Cedar Street where we have a lot of plastic poles that have raised havoc with people trying to get a night’s sleep has now replaced the poles and more since they were plowed away. Continue reading Sleepless in Somerville →

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

I just read a comment by a Somerville resident that Somerville school children were sitting on the laps of the Drag Queens at a library storytelling?!?? Omg…as much as I’m disgusted with the MBTA Bus Reroute Proposal…this blatant, twisted, Godless, indoctrination of innocent children to…let’s say it in a politically correct venacular…
“alternative lifestyle”… Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Why do grown men wearing dresses need an audience of children in our Somerville Public Schools? →

On Tuesday, August 16, 2022, I, Officer Pavao, was assigned to marked unit East 2. At 6:56 P.M., I was dispatched along with East 3, Officer Khoury, to 54 Newton Street for Check Condition. The reporting party, Ms. XXXX, stated her neighbor was attacking her. Officer Campers responded as backup. It should be noted that there is an extensive history of disputes between Ms. XXXX and Ms. HARDING, and they have even been physical with each other in the past. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (Deface Property) →

By Bob Katzen

“Mayor Wu’s announcement demonstrates that the new climate law is already working. Cities and towns are lining up to do their part in the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy.”
—Ben Hellerstein, state director for Environment Massachusetts, on Boston Mayor Michelle Wu’s announcement that she will lobby to have Boston included among the 10 cities and towns authorized under the new climate law to set fossil-fuel-free requirements for new buildings.
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HiLL →

By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill designating September 14 as Plastic Pollution Action Day, in recognition of the need to address the environmental impact of plastic pollution. House sponsor Rep. Marjorie Decker (D-Cambridge) did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call to comment on the bill’s passage.
Continue reading PLASTIC POLLUTION ACTION DAY (H 3122) →

By Bob Katzen

The State Board of Education voted to raise the minimum score that future high school students must receive on some of their MCAS tests in order to graduate including English language arts, math and science and technology/engineering. The higher score requirement will apply to students entering high school as freshmen beginning in the 2022-2023 school year. Continue reading BOARD OF EDUCATION RAISES THE MCAS SCORE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WILL NEED IN ORDER TO GRADUATE →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Baker vetoed and sent back to the Legislature a section of the cannabis bill that he recently signed into law. The section he vetoed would require the Cannabis Control Commission, in consultation with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Department of Public Health, to conduct a study and issue recommendations on how to remove obstacles that currently prevent students at public and private K-12 schools from possessing and consuming medical marijuana on school grounds. Continue reading MEDICAL MARIJUANA USE ON SCHOOL GROUNDS →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Baker signed into law a measure that would allow individuals to simultaneously apply online, on a state-sponsored website, for various state-funded benefits including MassHealth, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), childcare subsidies, housing subsidies, fuel assistance and other needs-based health care, nutrition and shelter benefits.
Continue reading FILL OUT ONE APPLICATION FOR MULTI-STATE BENEFITS →

The Somerville Fire Department will conduct its annual inspection of all fire hydrants between Monday, August 22, and Saturday, September 3. Continue reading Annual Fire Hydrant Inspection & Testing, August 22 to September 3 →

Q

The City of Somerville is convening a Participatory Budgeting Working Group to help plan what participatory budgeting will look like in Somerville, and all residents are invited to apply. “Participatory budgeting” means members of the public decide how to spend money in a public budget. Earlier this year, for the first time in Somerville, Mayor Ballantyne earmarked $1 million in the City’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget for participatory budgeting. Residents and community-based organizations will be able to propose and vote on priorities for those funds. Continue reading Join Somerville’s Participatory Budgeting Working Group →

We have been busy, but never too busy for you!

These four properties were sold in one month!
If you see something you would like to know more about, have any questions or are thinking about buying or selling a property, please don’t hesitate to send us an email or give us call!

Helen Praysman
Broker Associate
REALTOR®
(617) 610-5382 Helen.Praysman@commonmoves.com

Patricia Ng
Broker Associate
REALTOR®
(617) 818-5736
Patricia.Ng@commonmoves.com
Continue reading Berkshire Hathaway Home Services/ Commonwealth Real Estate →

Editor’s Note: In this world of never ending bad news, finally there’s some good news to report in Somerville.
Congratulations to young Somerville student for achieving a lifetime of perfect school attendance in Somerville! Congratulations on a job well done! 👍”

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

I would like to say Congratulations to Antonio Michael Anderson. Antonio has received Perfect attendance from Kindergarten-High School. Antonio NEVER missed a day of school in his whole life. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville Student Receives Perfect School Attendance Entire Life →

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

…Happy me…Standing at my #87 Bus Stop on Highland Ave. Somerville, MA…returning home from shopping at the best store in America…
Family Dollar Tree! So much fun…$20 spent = about $200 elsewhere… Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Note to MBTA: Please don’t ruin my lifestyle! →

Photo by David Tired

By William Tauro

An early afternoon five happened at the Caffe Nero at Assembly Row this past Saturday at about 1:15 pm.
Continue reading Early Afternoon Fire At Assembly Row →

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

Somerville, MA “Mayor” was was due to visit Weston Manor, 15 Weston Ave., Somerville, MA. She cancelled and left about half of the residents who planned to question her about the proposed Somerville Bus Service cuts disappointed and, frankly, disgusted with this apparent brush-off.
Perhaps the article in last week’s Somerville, Medford Weekly Newspaper featuring residents signing the Bus Petition and expressing their opinions caused the Mayor to have a last minute “conflict.” Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Mayor Stands Up Weston Manor Seniors →

GALVIN, Lt. Joseph J., Jr., 76, a lifelong resident of Somerville, served on the Somerville Fire Department (mainly Engine 7) for 41 years (1969-2010). He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserves. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph J. Galvin Jr. →

Next to the Boys and Girls Club and right in front of beautiful Spy Pond.
We will be selling burgers and hotdogs and we will have events for the kids on the Spy Pond field. You can also order sodas for the kids and adult beverages. Continue reading Please join us this Saturday August 20th, 10am-3pm →

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

Re:Proposed Parking Permits Rates

I emailed all the City Council members regarding the Facebook posting by Jake Wilson in his recent Newsletter and only 2 councilors replied! J. Clingnan basically laughed it off. Kristen Strezo called me and would look into it. She’s very pleasant to speak with. I think Wilson should be removed from Council if he’s going to send out items like this to cause an uproar!
If you want to send emails to Council members, don’t waste your time! They don’t respond! Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Proposed Parking Permits Rates →

Penta, Juanita J.- Of Medford, passed away suddenly after a brief illness on August 15, 2022. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Juanita J. Penta →

Assault
22044701: On 8/11/22 at approximately 2:11 PM, a female party entered the station and reported that her juvenile son was assaulted by another juvenile male while at a summer school program. The juvenile victim suffered injuries to his eye and face. Continue reading Somerville Police Updates: Assaults →

Alexander Sanon (15) has been reported missing from Gardner, MA by his parents. The family believes he may be in Somerville as his family recently moved from Somerville and his peer base is in Somerville. Continue reading Somerville Police Updates: Missing Juvenile →

Tkaczuk, Anita L. Of Somerville, passed away after a brief illness with her family by her side on August 17, 2022. She was 57. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Anita L Tkaczuk →

Reardon, Joseph J. Sr. Of Somerville and Hampton, NH passed away peacefully with his family by his side after a brief illness on Sunday August 14, 2022. He was 81.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph J Reardon Sr. →

CARROLL, Shirley R. (Smith) – Of Sudbury formerly of Somerville, surrounded by her loving family, at age 101, August 14, 2022. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Shirley R. Carroll →

Joanna M. (Kennedy) DiVasta of Somerville, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, August 14, 2022. Born and raised in Somerville. She was 79. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joanna M DiVasta →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division are pleased to announce a rental lottery for 66 income-restricted units at Alta Revolution in Assembly Row (290 Revolution Drive), available through the City’s Inclusionary Housing Program. Units are available to households making at or below 50%, 80%, and 110% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units are available. The first apartments will be ready for occupancy this December. Continue reading Somerville-Applications Open for 66 Affordable Rental Units at Assembly Row →

Stephen E. (Steve) Conley – passed away suddenly in an accident while riding his bike, August 12, 2022. Beloved husband of the late Thayne (Eastman) Conley. Son of the late Ann and Thomas A. Conley Sr. Loving father of Michelle Bache and her husband Paul of Abington, Kevin Conley, Kerri Conley and her fiance Brandon Cunningham all of Somerville. Brother of the late Thomas A. Conley Jr. and Maureen Conley. Dear grandfather of Joshua Bache. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Stephen E. Conley →

Reardon, Joseph J. Sr. Of Somerville and Hampton, NH passed away peacefully with his family by his side after a brief illness on Sunday August 14, 2022. He was 81. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph J. Reardon Jr. →

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority – MBTA is closing the entire Orange Line and part of the Green Line for one month. Closures start this Friday, August 19. Get ready and stay informed:

– Alternative travel options will include free shuttle buses, enhanced commuter rail service, accessible vans, and free Bluebikes passes.
– Visit mbta.com/bbt2022 for all shutdown information, or email olt@mbta.com with questions.
– Find your best route using the MBTA Trip Planner at mbta.com/trip-planner.
– Sign up for MBTA text or email alerts at alerts.mbta.com. Continue reading MBTA Orange and Green Line Closure Information →

The MBTA is suspending service on the entire Orange Line and part of the Green Line for one month to make necessary repairs and improvements. The Orange Line will close starting Friday, August 19, and the Green Line will close from Government Center to Union Square station starting Monday, August 22. Continue reading Prepare for MBTA Orange and Green Line Closures in Somerville →

By William Tauro

Before anyone goes out to shoot the messenger here and the bicycle community forms an organized lynch mob in Somerville and begins to take away all parking across the city, there are some parts of this story that the city nor the news stations aren’t telling you. Maybe it doesn’t fit their narrative? Who knows? Continue reading Letter from the Editor: Tragic Somerville Bicycle Accident Involved An Electric Bicycle →

By William Tauro

Somerville getting dangerous with loose cargo of 5 gallon bottles of water! According to sources a woman got hit by loose flying 5 gal jugs of water on lower Broadway early Wednesday afternoon! Continue reading Woman Gets Hit With 5 Gallon Water Bottles In Somerville →

Click on link below to read August 16th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online August 16th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

My name is Gale Mahan. I’m 66 years old. I was born and raised in Somerville Massachusetts. I have lived at CHT (Clarendon Hill Towers) for approx 28 years. When I first moved into CHT. I was a single mother of two children without a vehicle. The T was very important in my life, as it was my only means of transportation to get my kids to and attend their extra-curricular activities. Continue reading Somerville Residents Against The Removal Of Bus Routes →

Somerville Cyclist Fatally Injured on Broadway

72-year-old Somerville resident succumbed to injuries after August 12 collision

SOMERVILLE – On Friday, August 12, a 72-year-old Somerville man was fatally injured in a collision while cycling near 1055 Broadway just outside of Teele Square. Somerville Police officers responded to the report of the crash at 11:20 a.m. The operator of the vehicle involved remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. The cyclist was transported to Massachusetts General Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Continue reading Somerville Cyclist Fatally Injured on Broadway →

On 08/12/2022, while assigned to marked unit East-4, I responded to the area of Broadway and Lombardi for a motor vehicle accident. East-1, had requested my assistance. Upon my arrival Officer VanNostrand pointed out a male party, later identified as Mr. Daniel Escobar who had been involved in the accident. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: (OUI Liquor, Operate w/ Suspended License) →

By Bob Katzen

“I will try to explain this without slipping and falling.”
—Senate Ways and Means chair Sen. Mike Rodrigues (D-Westport) on the Senate floor while debating a measure requiring MDC skating rinks to remain open for the full rink season.
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The governor signed into law a bill providing $165.5 million to modernize the state’s courthouses and technology system. The measure also includes a section dealing with state’s gun laws.
Provisions include $95 million to allow courts to go digital; $35 million to ensure the safety of the courts’ employees and guests; and another $35 million for the technological modernization of court administrative operations.
Continue reading $165.5 MILLION TO MODERNIZE THE STATE’S COURTHOUSE AND COURT TECHNOLOGY SYSTEM AND A CHANGE IN GUN LAWS →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Baker signed into law a bill that makes changes in the cannabis industry including a section that would require the state to put some of its tax and licensing revenue from the sales of marijuana revenue into a newly created Social Equity Trust Fund to provide grants and loans, including forgivable and no-interest loans, designed to assist entrepreneurs and businesses from communities disproportionately harmed by the decades of marijuana prohibition. The measure would also allow municipalities to vote by a local referendum or through a vote of the municipal government for social consumption of marijuana to take place in their community.
Continue reading MARIJUANA LAWS (S 3096) →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Baker signed into law legislation that would support military families who relocate to the Bay State by providing career stability for the spouses of service members and education for their children. Continue reading BENEFITS FOR MILITARY FAMILIES →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Baker signed into law legislation that would expand the clean energy industry and reduce emissions from the transportation and building sectors across the state with the goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Continue reading CLEAN ENERGY AND REDUCED EMISSIONS →

By Bob Katzen

The governor signed into law an $11.3 billion transportation and infrastructure package that includes $1.375 billion for Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) modernization and $1.27 billion for non-federally aided roads and bridges.
Continue reading $11.3 BILLION TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE PACKAGE →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Baker signed into law a bill designed to make mental health care more accessible in the Bay State. Continue reading INCREASE ACCESS TO MENTAL HEALTH CARE →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Charlie Baker signed into law a bill that legalizes sports betting on professional and college sports for Massachusetts residents over 21 years old at the state’s casinos, slots parlors, simulcast centers and through mobile platforms. Betting on Massachusetts colleges and universities would not be allowed unless the school is playing in a tournament like March Madness. The betting would be regulated by the Gaming Commission, the same commission that regulates the state’s casino gambling. Continue reading LEGALIZE SPORTS BETTING →

By Bob Katzen

The House 133-20, Senate 39-0, overrode Gov. Baker’s veto of a provision that requires Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) skating rinks to remain open and staffed for the full rink season and that ice skating be available from September 1, 2022 to April 15, 2023. The provision also requires the MDC to prepare and submit reports to the House and Senate including the status of hiring for additional staffing levels; the staffing levels for the previous ten fiscal years; and the average staffing level at each park. Continue reading SKATING RINKS →

By Bob Katzen

The House 126-27, Senate 36-3, overrode Gov. Charlie Baker’s veto of $200,000 for a pilot program for the recycling of child passenger restraints. Continue reading $200,000 FOR RECYCLING CHILD PASSENGER RESTRAINTS (H 5050) →

Open Positions: One
Term: Three years
The City of Somerville seeks one registered Democrat to serve on the Board of Elections Commissioners. The Board consists of four people who represent each of the two leading political parties (Democratic and Republican), as defined in Chapter 50, Section 1 of the Massachusetts General Laws. Continue reading Somerville Board of Elections Commissioners Seeks One New Member →

Sarsfield, Brian S died suddenly on August 7, 2022. Born and raised in Somerville and most recently lived in East Boston. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Brian S. Sarsfield →

Teixeira, Maria (Valadao) Of Somerville, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday July 26, 2022. She was 81.
Born and raised in Praia da Vitoria, Portugal Azores to the late Manuel Ferraz-Valadao and Maria DaConceicao-Dejesus. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Maria Teixeira →

Open Positions: Four
Term: Three years
The Somerville Commission for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD) seeks four new members, and Somerville residents are encouraged to apply. Three of the openings must be filled by people who identify as having a disability, and one must be filled by a Somerville resident who is a family member of a person with a disability. Continue reading Somerville Commission for Persons with Disabilities Seeks Four Members →

DeVescovi, Antonio Of Medford, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday, August 7, 2022. He was 84. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Antonio DeVescovi →

On Saturday, August 13th, at approximately 01:05am, Somerville 911 received two calls reporting shots fired around Memorial Rd. In speaking with witnesses and reviewing video in the area, police learned a suspect on foot exchanges gunfire with two suspects operating a scooter on River Road. Officers recovered more than 15 shell casings on River Rd. No victims or injuries have been identified at this time, but police have located ballistic damage to vehicles and buildings. Continue reading Shots Fired In Somerville →