By Bob Katzen

“The likelihood that I would do anything else in elected politics is pretty slim.”
—Gov. Baker on if he has any future political plans to run for office. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would amend a four-decade old law that requires an amber dome light and the flashing orange lights on the back of ice cream trucks when the truck is parked and serving ice cream. The bill would provide that the law be enforced and would impose a $50 fine for failure to have the lights. Continue reading ICE CREAM TRUCKS →

By Bob Katzen

In 1947, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that racist “white only” language in property deeds prohibiting Blacks and other racial minorities from living on the property were illegal and unenforceable. However, under current Massachusetts law, there is no mechanism in place to remove these covenants from property deeds and they remain in the deeds of hundreds of homes for homeowners across the state. Continue reading EXPUNGEMENT OF RACIST “WHITE ONLY” LANGUAGE IN PROPERTY DEEDS →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that allows police to tow away and keep in storage for 12 hours the vehicle of anyone who is incapacitated following the use of drugs. The measure defines “incapacitated” as “disorderly, unconscious, in need of medical attention, likely to suffer or cause physical harm or damage property.” Continue reading TOWING CAR AFTER DRUG OVERDOSE →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Charlie Baker ordered all Massachusetts executive branch agencies to review their contracts and terminate any agreements with any executive department agency that is currently contracting with any Russian state-owned company or otherwise engaged in any partnership, affiliation, or exchange with any Russian state-owned company, Russian government-controlled entity or Russian governmental body. Continue reading STATE SANCTIONS AGAINST RUSSIA →

The Senate 40-0, approved and sent to the House legislation designed to ensure that pregnant and postpartum mothers get necessary and potentially life-saving health care by extending MassHealth insurance coverage to 12 months after pregnancy. MassHealth is the state’s Medicaid program that provides health care for low-income and disabled persons. . Continue reading PREGNANT AND POST PARTUM MOTHERS →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0 approved and sent to the House a bill that would require primary and secondary schools, homeless shelters and prisons to provide free disposable menstrual products in a convenient and non-stigmatizing way. Continue reading FREE MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS →

By Bob Katzen

The House 28-127, rejected an amendment that would eliminate a new charge that would add an estimated $1.37 to the average gas customer’s monthly bill. The estimated $23 million in new revenue would be used to fund training programs, tax credits and incentives for companies. Continue reading ELIMINATE THE ESTIMATED $1.37 PER CUSTOMER CHARGE TO FUND TAX CREDITS AND JOB TRAINING →

By Bob Katzen

The House 133-12, approved and sent to the Senate a bill to further develop and expand the offshore wind industry in Massachusetts. Provisions include investing hundreds of millions of dollars over the next decade in infrastructure, innovation, job training, supply chain capacity and transmission upgrades; providing job training, tax incentives, grants and loans; investing in long-term energy storage to help the state’s transition to renewable energy; and implementing a new charge that would add an estimated $1.37 to the average gas customer’s monthly bill to raise an estimated $23 million in new revenue that would be used to fund the programs, tax incentives and grants. Continue reading OFFSHORE WIND INDUSTRY →

EVENTS

Bingo – Tuesdays at Ralph & Jenny Center starting at 10:00 a.m. and Thursdays at Holland Street starting at 10:00 a.m. Grab and Go lunch available following Bingo. RSVP to Debby Higgins by calling 617-625-6600, ext. 2321 or email Debby at DHiggins@Somervillema.gov Continue reading Somerville COA:Press & Organizational Outreach for 3-1-2022 →

Residents, landlords, business owners, and all members of the Medford community invited to participate ongoing Comprehensive Planning process. Continue reading Medford-Third Comprehensive Plan Community Meeting Scheduled for March 16th →

BOSTON – Today, in an audit of the Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance’s (MOVA), the Office of State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump (OSA) found that none of MOVA’s employees received cybersecurity awareness training, as required by the Executive Office of Technology Services and Security. The audit, which examined the period of January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2020 recommends that MOVA establish policies and procedures requiring all staff members to receive mandatory cybersecurity awareness training. Continue reading Audit Recommends Improvements in Cybersecurity Practices at Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Housing Division are pleased to announce an income-restricted homeownership opportunity. Continue reading Affordable Homeownership Opportunity at 13 Alpine Street Condominiums →

Nwajei previously served as Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and as the Director of the Office of Human Rights for the State Department of Developmental Services Continue reading Mayor Lungo-Koehn Appoints Frances N. Nwajei as Medford’s Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion →

SOMERVILLE – With COVID-19 health indicators improving, the City of Somerville Board of Health has voted to end Somerville’s face covering mandate for indoor public spaces. Effective Saturday, March 5, the City will no longer require masks in privately owned indoor locations such as restaurants, stores, theaters, and gyms. Businesses, however, remain free to maintain their own mask requirements to best serve their health and safety needs. Continue reading Somerville Mask Mandate for Indoor Public Spaces to End Saturday, March 5 →

SYHA Alumni –

SYHA is hosting their 1st annual Somerville Youth Hockey Alumni Tournament at Veterans Rink in Somerville and we need you there! Teams of ~10 players will face off on the ice for the afternoon of games. Each team is guaranteed 2 games. Each game will be 2 15-minute running time periods. Continue reading Somerville Youth Hockey Assosiation (SYHA) Hosting 1st Annual Somerville Youth Hockey Alumni Tournament at Veterans Rink →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Mary A. Doherty on her passing.

Mary A. Doherty was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed here in both Somerville and Medford.

Obituary:

Mary A. Doherty, a resident of Melrose and formerly longtime of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 4, 2022 at Glen Ridge Nursing Care in Medford, at age 82. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary A. Doherty →

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

I seldom write on International issues or political parties but share important facts and comments sometimes. But, This week is the “…times that try men’s souls.” But not our Government..save for a few Senators. Ukraine needs BIG weapons, missiles LAST WEEK. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Speakup Line: Stop! In the Name of Soul →

PHILLIPPE’S OBITUARY

U.S. Veteran, Mr. Phillippe R. Flannery, of Somerville, passed away on March 2, 2022, he was one week shy of his 99th birthday. Born March 9, 1923 in Boston he was the son of Marie (Paquette) and Francis Flannery. He was the beloved husband of the late Doreen (Dionne) Flannery and a devoted father of 9 children. Kathleen Canney and her husband Edward, the late Rita Gotham and her surviving husband Edward, Beatrice Wood and her husband Ron, the late Claire McAskill and her late ex-husband Paul, Paul Flannery and his wife Valerie, Doris Walsh and her late husband Joseph, Ralph Flannery, Irene Flannery and her husband Jeffrey Blanz, Dan Flannery and his wife Maureen. He also leaves his only brother Ovide Flannery, 11 loving grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mr. Phillippe R. Flannery →

IRENE’S OBITUARY
Irene Marie (Caruso) Batastini, also known as “NANA”, 87, peacefully passed on March 2,
2022 in Boston.
Born in Boston on November 7, 1934, Irene resided in Somerville, Ma. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Irene Marie (Caruso) Batastini →

Album: SNAPSHOTS
Artist: June Millington
Make Me Happy 2:51
1)June Millington’s Snapshots CDs starts off with a pure pop confection that sounds as if Laura Nyro and Paul McCartney decided to create a combination of their skills. At two minutes and fifty-one seconds it would fit on 2022 radio as easily as it would the year 1965. Fun production too. Continue reading Joe Vig’s First Impressions …inside the Hotline to the Underground →

Click on link below to read March 1st, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition OnlineMarch 1st, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Henry Szeto on his passing.

Henry was the founder of the Boston Chinatown Lion’s Club as well as a mentor and very good friend to many of us here at the Somerville Lion’s Club for decades. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Henry Szeto →

In response to updated CDC and Massachusetts Department of Public Health guidance on indoor masking, the Somerville Board of Health will hold a special meeting to discuss the local indoor mask mandate. Continue reading Somerville Board of Health Meeting to Discuss Indoor Mask Mandate →

SOMERVILLE – As part of Mayor Katjana Ballantyne’s 100-Day Agenda and the City’s ongoing commitment to mitigating rodent activity, the City of Somerville is launching a five-month pilot program to bring the latest rodent-control technology to Somerville this week. Continue reading Somerville Pilots New Rodent-Control Technology City partners with Modern Pest Services to deploy 50 SMART Boxes in strategic locations →

Updated:On Sunday evening February 27, 2022 the person that was operating the vehicle that struck the young lady on Harvard Street. Turned himself into the Medford Police. The Medford Police also have his car that he was driving when the young lady was struck. This investigation is still ongoing, and charges will be sought against this person. We are not disclosing his identity at this time because he has not been officially charged yet.
     

On Saturday February 26, 2022 at approximately 11:30pm a 22-year-old female was struck by a passing motor vehicle as she got out of a ride share vehicle that was dropping her and her boyfriend off in the area of 125 Harvard Street in Medford, MA. Continue reading Updated:Looking for Public’s Help:Medford Hit & Run with Serious Personal Injury →

Clark requested an analysis of the employer-provided child care credit and the benefits employees receive from child care services eligible for the credit Continue reading ASSISTANT SPEAKER CLARK ANNOUNCES NEW FINDINGS FROM GAO STUDY ON EMPLOYER-PROVIDED CHILD CARE CREDIT: ONLY 11 PERCENT OF WORKERS HAVE ACCESS TO EMPLOYER-PROVIDED CARE →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville’s Mobility Division are inviting residents to a series of community workshops with the aim of informing Somerville’s Citywide Bicycle Network Plan. Continue reading Community Workshops To Map Out the Future of Cycling in Somerville →

The City is now accepting applications for the new Child Care Access and Affordability Program, which provides financial assistance toward full-day preschool and childcare. Continue reading Somerville-Apply Now for City’s New Child Care Access and Affordability Program →

As Somerville develops its Citywide Drainage and Water Quality Master Plan, Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City’s Engineering Division invite residents to a series of virtual community meetings to discuss flood mitigation in Somerville. Continue reading Somerville Virtual Meetings To Discuss City’s Proposed Flood Mitigation Efforts →

Andrew James Martineau of Middleboro passed away on February 20, 2022. He was 66. Andy was born and raised in Somerville to the late Arthur and Mary T. (Franey) Martineau. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Andrew James Martineau →

McGivern was appointed Acting DPW Commissioner in November 2021, has served as Medford’s City Engineer since 2018. Continue reading Medford Mayor Lungo-Koehn Appoints Former City Engineer Timothy McGivern as Permanent Commissioner of Public Works →

BOSTON – An audit released today by the Office of State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump (OSA) found inadequacies in the state’s Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM) processes to ensure equal opportunity staffing requirements of its contractors for women and minority participation. Continue reading AUDIT FINDS CONTRACTS AUTHORIZED BY STATE’S PUBLIC CONSTRUCTION AGENCY DID NOT MEET WORKFORCE PARTICIPATION GOALS FOR WOMEN AND MINORITIES →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 2 Councilor J.T. Scott, and City staff invite you to a virtual community meeting to discuss roadway upgrades and traffic safety improvements on Washington Street, just west of Union Square. Continue reading Western Washington Street Mobility Improvements Community Meeting, March 1 →

Recent re-precincting in 89 communities increased preliminary cost certifications by 11%

BOSTON – In a letter to Secretary of the Commonwealth William Francis Galvin, State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump determined and certified that the state must pay communities $2,083,736.08 to cover the cost of extra mandated polling hours for the September 2022 state primary and November 2022 general elections. Continue reading AUDITOR BUMP CERTIFIES STATE MUST PAY COMMUNITIES $2.08 MILLION FOR THIS YEAR’S ELECTIONS →

By Bob Katzen

“Before deciding to impose new fees on riders, the MBTA should re-examine its fare collection contract, and adopt a Low-Income Fare that would save low-income people millions.”
— Collique Williams of the Public Transit Public Good Coalition on the failure by the MBTA board to create a Low-Income Fare for MBTA riders. Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

ENCOURAGING SUICIDE Bill (S 1032) Imposes up to a 5-year prison sentence on a person who encourages another person to commit suicide.

The bill, called “Conrad’s Law,” is named after then- 18-year-old Conrad Roy III who, in 2014, killed himself after being pressured by then- 17-year-old Michelle Carter via a phone call following thousands of texts. Carter was convicted of manslaughter and served 12 months of a 15-month prison sentence. Continue reading ENCOURAGING SUICIDE →

By Bob Katzen

The State Administration and Regulatory Oversight Committee has recommended passage of a bill that would establish an official holiday in Massachusetts to commemorate the life of President John F. Kennedy and promote civic engagement and voter participation. The holiday would be officially observed annually on Election Day—the last Sunday in November in all odd-numbered years and the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November in all even-numbered years. Continue reading JFK HOLIDAY →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would prohibit the release of the audio version of 911 calls to the public or media except when authorized by the caller; requested by law enforcement agencies for investigative purposes; or when a court order finds that the right of the public to the release of the recording outweighs the privacy interests of the individual who made the call. The measure does allow the release of a written transcript of the audio at any time. Continue reading PRIVACY OF AUDIO OF 911 CALLS →

By Bob Katzen

The Baker administration announced the launch of a $75 million program, funded by money from the $4 billion American Rescue Plan, to provide grants to businesses impacted by COVID-19. The program provides $50 million toward businesses that employ between two and 50 people and which reach underserved markets and businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, the disabled and people who identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Continue reading $75 MILLION FOR SMALL BUSINESSES IMPACTED BY COVID-19 →

By Bob Katzen

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) reminds residents that free treatment options are available that can be used to prevent severe illness and hospitalization from COVID-19. Several treatments, including monoclonal antibody infusions and oral therapeutics, are widely available across the state. Continue reading COVID TREATMENT →

By Bob Katzen

On September 23, the Senate 38-1, approved legislation that would require that all public schools offering a comprehensive sexual health education curriculum “provide medically accurate, age-appropriate sexual health education.”
Continue reading SEX EDUCATION →

By Bob Katzen
On November 17, the Senate 39-0, approved a measure known as the Mental Health Addressing Barriers to Care (ABC) Act that will make mental health care more accessible in the Bay State.
Continue reading INCREASE MENTAL HEALTH ACCESS →

By Bob Katzen
On October 21, the Senate 39-0, approved 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

On September 23, the Senate 39-0, approved a bill that would allow people to change their gender on their birth certificate, driver’s license, learner’s permit, identification card or liquor purchase identification card, including to a non-binary option other than male or female. Continue reading CHANGE GENDER ON BIRTH CERTIFICATES AND MORE →

Residents of a main artery who had parked on a permit-only secondary street should move their car after 3 p.m. to avoid being ticketed and towed. Continue reading The City of Medford will lift the snow emergency as of 3 p.m. Saturday, February 26, and normal parking regulations will resume. →

MOVE CARS FROM CITY LOTS BY 10 a.m.

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville’s snow emergency will end Saturday, February 26, at 8 a.m., and normal parking rules will resume at that time. Vehicles can be parked on the even side of the street starting at 8 a.m. To avoid ticketing and towing, do not move to the even side before 8 a.m. Saturday. Continue reading SOMERVILLE SNOW EMERGENCY WILL END SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26, AT 8 a.m. →

Parking restrictions in effect as of 10pm Thursday

City Hall closed on Friday.

Trash pickup delayed into next week. Continue reading CITY OF MEDFORD DECLARES SNOW EMERGENCY THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24th BEGINNING AT 10PM →

Move vehicles by 11:30 p.m. Thursday to odd-numbered side of street (unless otherwise posted) to avoid ticketing and towing
Parking is also allowed in municipal lots (but not in school lots) Continue reading Somerville Declares Snow Emergency Effective Thursday, February 24, at 7:30 p.m. →

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Get your lymphatic system moving and increase your body’s ability to recover & detox with our other equipment. Continue reading Active Healing →

click on link below to read
February 22nd, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (2)

Reyes, Servilia of Somerville, passed away at Massachusetts General Hospital on Saturday February 12th, 2022. She was 74.
Born and raised in Jayuya, Puerto Rico, she was the daughter of the late Geronimo DeJesus-Reyes and Claudina Dominguez-Gonzales. Continue reading Somerville/ Medford Remembering Servilia Reyes →

Cornelius O’Sullivan, a longtime Medford resident passed away on February 15th after a long illness. He was 85. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Cornelius O’Sullivan →

David C. Figueiredo, 51, of Gloucester, husband of Maria C. (Nunes) Figueiredo, passed away at Lahey Medical Center in Burlington after a brief illness.

David was born in Somerville, MA on July 11, 1970 to proud parents of Jacinto Cabral and Maria Jose Figueiredo. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering David C. Figueiredo →

Carmen R. Leone, 82, of Somerville of Somerville, passed away on February 18, 2022, he was 82.
Born in Bonito, Italy he was the son of the late Anna (Sarno) and Angelo Leone. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Carmen R. Leone →

The Princess Pancake Breakfast at the Ted Williams Camp (Loon Pond Lodge) raised a significant amount of money for the Jimmy Fund today. The team of Nadia Carlevale and the Ted Williams Camp Alumni thank you for a wonderful day had by all. Continue reading Ted Williams Camp Alumni Working On Striking Out Cancer →

Pay By Phone Options Available in Business Districts

Enforcement Activities to Begin February 28
MEDFORD – The City of Medford Parking Department has fully transitioned from operations previously undertaken by ParkMedford and will begin formal enforcement and permitting operations this month, Parking Director Faye Morrison and Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn announced today. The Department, located on the first floor of City Hall, will begin issuing parking permits begin enforcement activities on February 28. Continue reading Medford Parking Department Will be Fully Operational as of February 28, Accepting Parking Permit and Other Online Applications for 2022 →

Multiple Boards and Commissions currently seeking to fill various positions. Residents of all backgrounds and abilities encouraged to apply

The City of Medford is currently accepting applications from Medford residents to serve on one of many City Boards & Commissions. Continue reading MEDFORD CITY BOARDS & COMMISSIONS SEEKING RESIDENTS TO FILL VACANCIES →

The City of Somerville Traffic Board will hold a virtual public hearing on Thursday, February 24, 2022, regarding the one-year parking-regulation changes for City and school staff on Central Hill, near City Hall, Somerville High School, and the Central Library. These changes were approved at the Somerville Traffic Commission meeting on November 18, 2021 (Agenda Items 5a-d and 6).
Continue reading Somerville Traffic Board Public Hearing on Central Hill Parking Changes, February 24 →

Marcelin Olivier of Medford, MA passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Thursday February 17th at the Kaplan Family Hospice House, in Danvers, MA at the age of 87.
Born November, 23rd 1934 in Port au Prince, Haiti, he was the son of the late Marcel and Margot (Pardoviany) Olivier. Marcelin was a devoted family man of faith and hard worker. He had a career as an Health inspector in Haiti and later as an Commuter rail inspector for the MBTA in Brookline, Ma. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marcelin Olivier →

BOSTON– On February 16, 2022 the Massachusetts House of Representatives voted to pass bill H.4461 the Work and Family Mobility Act, filed by Representative Christine Barber of Somerville and Medford and Representative Tricia Farley-Bouvier of Pittsfield, enabling all state residents to apply for a standard MA driver’s license or identification card regardless of immigration status. Continue reading Representative Barber’s Driver’s License Bill Passes in Landmark House Vote →

MEDFORD – The City of Medford will be offering rain barrels at a highly discounted price again in 2022. In partnership with The Great American Rain Barrel Co., the City is working to safely provide residents with an opportunity to save money and help the city manage its water supplies. Continue reading Rain Barrels Available Now Through May 3rd Through Partnership Between City of Medford, Great American Rain Barrels →

Work will focus on recruitment, the appointment process, and barriers to serving on boards and commissions

SOMERVILLE – In an effort to diversify the City’s boards and commissions and provide equitable opportunity for residents to participate, Mayor Katjana Ballantyne announced plans to address barriers to serving on Somerville’s boards and commissions through a comprehensive reevaluation process that will result in both amended and new standard processes. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announces Plan to Make City Boards and Commissions More Inclusive →

Virtual Workshop Series: Somerville Bicycle Network Planning

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Mobility Division invite you to participate in a virtual workshop to help inform Somerville’s citywide bicycle network plan. Continue reading Somerville Bicycle Network Planning Workshops →

RUTH’S OBITUARY
Ruth F. (Huckins) Holmes, of Salem, formerly of Medford, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on February 15, 2022.
Born in Winchester, she was the cherished daughter of the late Francis and Ruth Huckins and wife of the late James Holmes. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ruth F. (Huckins) Holmes →

(MEDFORD)—The Medford Board of Health, citing a three week decrease in the City’s COVID-19 positivity rate, voted unanimously at its regular meeting on February 15 to lift the indoor mask requirement for private businesses. The Board of Health also voted to rescind the vaccination requirement for large-scale indoor entertainment venues like the Chevalier Theatre, though performers have the ability to require proof of vaccinations on a show-by-show basis. Both orders will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on February 16, 2022. Continue reading MEDFORD BOARD OF HEALTH VOTES TO LIFT INDOOR MASK MANDATE FOR PRIVATE BUSINESSES →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Arline C. Ardolino on her passing.

Arline C. Ardolino was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed here in both Somerville and Medford. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Arline C. Ardolino →

Francisca “FiFi” (Fula) Ferreira, of Somerville, passed away on Tuesday February 15, 2022 at her home surrounded by her family. She was 94 years of age. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Francisca “FiFi” (Fula) Ferreira →

By Bob Katzen

“The [Baker] administration’s announcement is an important step toward a true common application and will have a significant impact on hunger and food insecurity in our state.”
—Jamie Klufts of the National Association of Social Workers – MA Chapter on the Baker administration’s announcement of its plan to allow low-income households the right to apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits at the same time they sign-up for MassHealth. Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Baker signed into law a $101 million COVID-19 response bill. Key provisions include increasing the number of COVID-19 testing sites and COVID-19 tests; the acquisition and distribution of high-quality personal protective masks, Continue reading $101 MILLION FOR COVID-19 RESPONSE →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Charlie Baker signed into law legislation that would require EMS personnel, if there are no people waiting for the service, to provide emergency treatment to a police dog and use an ambulance to transport the dog injured in the line of duty to a veterinary clinic or veterinary hospital. Continue reading GOVERNOR SIGNS INTO LAW “TRANSPORT INJURED POLICE DOGS – NERO’S LAW” →

By Bob Katzen

Secretary of State Bill Galvin announced that nomination papers can now be picked up by candidates who are planning to run for office in the September 6th primaries and the November 8th general election. Offices on the 2022 ballot this year include Congress, state senator, state representative, governor, lt. governor, attorney general, secretary of state, treasurer, auditor, governor’s councilor, district attorney and sheriff. Continue reading THE 2022 STATE ELECTION BEGINS →

By Bob Katzen

The House 31-125, rejected an amendment to a section of the bill that prohibits the Registry of Motor Vehicles from disclosing personally identifying information and communications regarding any applicant for a Massachusetts driver’s license or learner’s permit, “including failure to provide proof of lawful presence in the United States,” unless specifically authorized to do so under regulations that are to be drafted by the attorney general’s office.
Continue reading REQUIRE REGISTRY OF MOTOR VEHICLES TO PROVIDE INFORMATION TO CITIES AND TOWNS →

By Bob Katzen

The House 120-36, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would allow people who are unable to prove lawful presence in the United States to apply for a Massachusetts driver’s license by providing two documents. The first document is a valid unexpired foreign passport or valid unexpired consular ID. Continue reading DRIVER’S LICENSES FOR UNDOCUMENTED IMMIGRANTS →

Congratulations to newly promoted Lieutenant Joseph Gagliardi and Sergeant Robert Furtado! Good luck in your new positions! Continue reading Medford Police News Stories →

Officers Michael Sunde and Jose Torres-Morales Jr. graduated the 71st Recruit Officers Course Plymouth Academy today and will start their Field Training next week. Continue reading Medford Police News Stories →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Terence “Terry” Quirk on his passing.

Terence “Terry” Quirk was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed here both in Somerville and Medford. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Terence “Terry” Quirk →

Obituary ROSE M. EARLE
August 10, 1928 – February 15, 2022

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Rose M. Earle on her passing.

Rose M. Earle was a wonderful person who will be sadly missed both here in Somerville and Medford.

Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rose M. Earle →

Assault

22006941: On 2/11/22 at approximately 10:41 AM, Somerville Police responded to the area of Central St & Albion St after a victim reported that while he was in the crosswalk, he was approached by two juvenile males, one of whom displayed what appeared to be a toy gun at him.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Assault →

Robbery

22007496: On 2/14/22 at approximately 11:35 AM, Somerville Police responded to a business in Assembly Row for a shoplifting. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the reporting person who stated a man entered the store and began to steal multiple items. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Robbery →

WE WON AN AWARD !

Thank you to all our clients and friends for your business and referrals!

Another sussessful year in real estate and we couldn’t have done it without your support.

We greatly appreciate it!

Continue reading Ng & Praysman Team Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Commonwealth Real Estate (617) 610-5382 →

Update Regarding Somerville Shooting Incident, February 15

SOMERVILLE — On Tuesday, February 15, 2022, at approximately 1:17 p.m., the Somerville Police Department responded to numerous 911 calls for multiple shots fired in the area of Mystic Avenue and within the Mystic Housing Development.

Continue reading Somerville Shooting Incident, 2/15 →

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

Why is the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds still closed?

One Curtatone out, one more to go! While the rest of the state is back to work everyday, she is still on a two year paid vacation and continuing riding on the Covid 19 coattails on the taxpayer’s dime! Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Why is the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds still closed? →

February 15th, 2022 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (9)

Citywide Drainage and Water Quality Master Plan Community Meetings:
Help Somerville Plan for Flood Mitigation

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Engineering Division invite you to a series of community meetings to discuss flood mitigation in Somerville. Continue reading Somerville Flood Mitigation Planning Meetings →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Paul J. Aguiar on his passing.

Paul J. Aguiar was a wonderful person with many friends in both Somerville and Medford where he will be sadly missed! Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Somerville/Medford Remembering Paul J. Aguiar →

Our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Stephen Buckley on his passing. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Stephen Buckley of Somerville →

On Monday, February 7, 2022, at approximately 1:20 A.M., Somerville Police control received a call from Sergeant Eli Kim (S-9) for a check condition at Elm St. and Mossland St. Sgt. Kim observed a vehicle at this intersection stopped for an extended period of time for at least 3 light cycles. At this point Sgt. Kim honked his horn at the driver operating the vehicle in-front of him, to which resulted in no response.
Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Robert LEBLANC (OUI Liquor) →

LILLIAN’S OBITUARY

Nelson, Lillian M. (Sweeney) of Medford, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Friday February 11, 2022. She was 99.
Born and raised in Medford, she was the daughter of the late John J. and Maude L. (Fallon) Sweeney. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lillian M. (Sweeney) Nelson →

By Bob Katzen

“Sen. Owens was a great man, a true embodiment of what it means to serve the public and never waver in your own beliefs. He leaves a powerful legacy of unwavering conviction in his fight for economic and social justice across the commonwealth of Massachusetts.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would raise from $35 to $200 the fine for violating the traffic rule that provides when two vehicles approach or enter an intersection at approximately the same instant, the operator of the vehicle on the left must yield the right-of-way to the vehicle on the right. The proposal also imposes additional penalties and/or license revocation for up to six months for any of these violations that cause death, serious bodily harm or bodily harm.
Continue reading RAISE FINE FOR “RIGHT OF WAY” VIOLATIONS →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 7-31, rejected an amendment extending until 2028 the current law, due to expire in 2023, that allows consumers to use coupons to get discounts and rebates when purchasing prescription drugs. In 2012, Massachusetts was the last state to lift a ban on the use of prescription coupons. Continue reading DRUG COUPONS BILL (S 1651) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-1, approved and sent to the House a bill aimed at addressing the high and rapidly increasing costs of prescription drugs in the Bay State. A key provision provides immediate price relief for insulin used by one in ten people living with diabetes who must take it daily or risk major health problems. Continue reading DRUG COSTS BILL (S 2651) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 156-1, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would make major changes to the oversight and governance structure of the state’s veterans’ homes in Holyoke and Chelsea. The proposal follows the deaths of 77 veteran residents in 2020 as a result of a COVID-19 outbreak at the Holyoke facility. Continue reading SOLDIERS’ HOMES OVERSIGHT BILL (H 4441) →

BOSTON – State Auditor Suzanne M. Bump testified today before the Joint Committee on Ways and Means in support of her fiscal year 2023 budget request, and offered insight into how she will be conducting audits of pandemic relief spending.
Continue reading AUDITOR BUMP HIGHLIGHTS FY23 PRIORITIES IN BUDGET TESTIMONY →

FRANK “BUTCHIE”‘S OBITUARY

MORAN, Frank J. “Butchie” – Of Somerville February 5, 2022. Beloved husband of the late Mary (Grande) Moran. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Frank J. “Butchie” Moran →

As the next step in an ongoing engagement process, the City of Somerville has launched an online survey to identify community priorities for Somerville’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Continue reading Take a Survey to Guide Somerville’s ARPA Investments →

VICTORIA’S OBITUARY
Victoria (Tello) Foley passed away peacefully on February 8th, 2022. Vicki is preceded in death by her husband, John (Jack) Foley, and her brothers Francis Tello and Joseph Tello. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Victoria (Tello) Foley →

City Holding ARPA Community Meeting on March 9 at 6pm at City Hall and on Zoom

(MEDFORD)—Thanks to the American Rescue Plan (ARPA), over the next few years Medford will be investing nearly $50 million dollars into the community to restore and revitalize critical systems, facilities and institutions that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading Medford Hires Federal Funds Manager to Help Guide ARPA Strategy →

We’d like to welcome our four newest hires! Pictured here with Chief Freedman, from left to right, are Keith Baker, Jeffrey Dominique, Santino Borelli, and Brian Lee during their swearing in ceremony. Continue reading Medford Firefighters Local 1032 Updates →

We have so much to offer you! In addition to our Daily Specials and Throwback Thursday menu we also have our Daily Dinner for Two Specials! Everyday of the week we offer different dinner for two entrées that are served with salad, entrée, potato, vegetables, and dessert!

See menu: https://www.facebook.com/Mount-Vernon-Restaurants-103209019028/

(Somerville, MA) Naveo Credit Union announced it would offer its annual Carlos Faria and Victor Da Silva Memorial Scholarship for the 2022-2023 academic year. Naveo is offering three scholarships of $1,500 each. Continue reading Naveo Credit Union announces three $1,500 scholarships are available for the 2022-2023 academic year through the Carlos Faria and Victor Da Silva Memorial Scholarship Fund →

22005269: On 2/2/22 at approximately 3:07 PM, Somerville Police responded to a business in Assembly Row for a robbery. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the reporting person who stated a black man, 6 feet tall, wearing a red, white, and blue winter hat, blue Adidas hooded sweatshirt, and light blue jeans entered the store and began to shoplift various items. When he approached the exit, he brandished a knife at the security guard. Continue reading Somerville Armed Robbery →

By Friends of Medford

Ava Dwyer 8th grader of Mcglynn Middle School has been making a big impact for medford hs this season.Averaging 31pts a game.While shooting 90% from the foul line, draining shots from everywhere. Continue reading Medford Sports News →

22003686: The Somerville Police are interested in speaking with the individuals pictured below regarding hateful graffiti that was written on a business on Elm St. Continue reading Somerville Police Seeking Public’s Help in Identifying Suspects: Hate Vandalism →

On Wednesday, January 19, 2022 Officers Kevin Goulart and Justin Buswell were on routine patrol in the area of the Dilboy Pool located on Alewife Brook Parkway. At 1:47pm they heard a radio transmission from Somerville Housing Officer Billy Rymill, who was on a nearby detail. He was alerting dispatch of a rollover involving a trailer truck in the area of Capen Court. Continue reading Somerville Police Award Life Saving Medal to Police and Housing Officers →

House passes legislation to void forced arbitration provisions as they apply to sexual assault and harassment claims, giving survivors the choice of how to pursue justice Continue reading ASSISTANT SPEAKER CLARK VOTES TO END FORCED ARBITRATION FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AND HARASSMENT CLAIMS →

On Monday, January 31, 2022, while working a First Half shift, assigned to marked unit West 7, at approximately 6:38 PM marked Unit West 6 (Officer Kevin Goulart) and I, were dispatched to 139B Alewife Brook Pkwy for a suspicious person call. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: James FLYNN (Motor Vehicle Vandalism, Attempt to Commit Crime) →

ELINOR’S OBITUARY

McLaughlin, Elinor Theresa – Born April 26th 1945, known to many as Petty, passed away January 26th 2022.
Elinor was born in Boston to parents Charles and Eleanor, survived by her brother Charles McLaughlin Jr and his three sons Brian, Kevin and Sean McLaughlin and their families.
Elinor was raised in Somerville, Massachusetts where she attended Somerville High School, Class of 1962. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Elinor T. McLaughlin →

By Bob Katzen

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will deliver billions in funding to the commonwealth, helping to build on the investments our administration has made over the past seven years to improve our roads and bridges, and make our public transportation system more reliable and resilient.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would allow some personnel from city and town school districts to work for educational collaborative where services are needed. Continue reading EDUCATIONAL COLLABORATIVES →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that would double fines for motor vehicles speeding in the breakdown lane. Continue reading DOUBLE FINES FOR SPEEDING IN THE BREAKDOWN LANE →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would require a professional land surveyor working on a preliminary design for a new facility or renovation where excavation is necessary to pre-mark the proposed excavation.

Continue reading EXCAVATION SAFETY BILL (H 3297) →

The House approved legislation that would require EMS personnel to provide emergency treatment to a police dog and use an ambulance to transport the dog injured in the line of duty to a veterinary clinic or veterinary hospital if there are not people requiring emergency medical treatment or transport at that time. The Senate has already approved its own version of the measure and the House version now goes back to the Senate for consideration. Continue reading ALLOW AMBULANCES TO BE USED FOR INJURED POLICE DOGS – NERO’S LAW →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would require every city and town that receives transportation funds from the state, to conduct a study to expand the number of bicycle routes on public roadways within the city or town. Reports from each city and town’s study would be due in six months. Continue reading STUDY EXPANDING BICYCLE LANES →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved and sent to Gov.Baker a $101 million COVID-19 response bill. Key provisions include increasing the number of COVID-19 testing sites and COVID-19 tests; the acquisition and distribution of high-quality personal protective masks, including N95s and KN95s, to be distributed to health care workers and children and faculty in elementary and secondary public-school districts; increasing vaccination rates among kids ages five to 11 whose vaccination rates remain low in comparison to older residents; and recapitalizing the COVID-19 Paid Sick Leave Program. The measure also mandates that the Baker administration pursue the highest allowable rate of federal reimbursement for the $101 million package. Continue reading $101 MILLION FOR COVID-19 RESPONSE →

By Bob Katzen

The House 29-128, rejected an amendment that would require that any voting software or voting machine that is used to process early, absentee or mail-in voting prior to Election Day must be secured at all times once the processing has begun. At the end of each processing period, the machine, software and ballots must be secured by a police officer and an election official either in a secured vault at the city or town hall or at the police station in a private cell—and must remain under video surveillance. Continue reading SECURE VOTING MACHINES →

By Bob Katzen

The House 28-130, rejected an amendment that would require that any polling place that requires a voter to prove he or she is vaccinated, by presenting his or her vaccination card, to also show suitable identification to demonstrate proof of residence to the local election officer. Continue reading MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF RESIDENCY →

By Bob Katzen

The House 32-126, rejected an amendment to a current law that imposes up to a $10,000 fine and/or up to a 5-year prison sentence on anyone who knowingly engages in any type of voting fraud including illegally registering to vote; illegally voting or attempting to vote; voting more than once; and aiding and abetting a person who is illegally voting. The amendment would raise the fine to up to $20,000. Continue reading RAISE PENALTIES FOR VOTER FRAUD →

Going Track by Track with Joe Viglione

Artist: Bird Mancini

CD: The One Delight Continue reading Bird Mancini GOING TRACK BY TRACK →

For those who enjoy extreme drama and outer space battle, Moonfall will fit the bill with some captivating moments that outweigh the excesses. See the first five minutes of film here on YouTube: https://youtu.be/RKtcfFrLuC0
Continue reading MOONFALL… Directed by: Roland Emmerich – a Joe Viglione Film Review →

Posted on Medford Firefighters Local 1032 Facebook site on Sunday 02/06/22

Early this morning, Engine 1 and Ladder 2 responded to a rollover with entrapments at Roosevelt Circle onto Westwood Rd. Speed and icy road conditions led to the crash. Three people were extricated from the vehicle with transports to the hospital. Also responding were Armstrong Ambulance, Stephens Towing, Medford Police and State Police. Continue reading Medford Firefighters Local 1032 Updates →

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and City of Somerville staff invite you to attend the second community meeting to discuss 90 Washington Street, a 4-acre site near the East Somerville Green Line station envisioned as the future home of a new Public Safety Building and a range of civic, commercial, and residential spaces. Continue reading 90 Washington Street Redevelopment Public Meeting, February 16 →