By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved a bill that would provide $1.1 billion to cover expenses related to response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading 1.1 BILLION FOR COVID-19 RESPONSE →

By Bob Katzen

A ruling by Superior Court Judge Robert Gordon last week has cleared Former House Speaker Sal DiMasi to register as a lobbyist. Continue reading FORMER SPEAKER DIMASI IS CLEARED TO LOBBY ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

State Representatives Mike Connolly (D-Cambridge) and Kevin Honan (D-Boston) and Sen. Patricia Jehlen (D-Somerville) filed bills last week that would extend the current moratorium on evictions and foreclosures for failure to pay until one year after Governor Baker lifts the COVID-19 state of emergency. The proposals also freezes rents for the same period of time and creates a fund to aid those unable to pay housing costs due to the pandemic. Continue reading EXTEND THE EVICTION MORATORIUM →

By Bob Katz

A bill designed to help revive and stimulate the restaurant industry during the COVID-19 pandemic passed the House 156-0 more than a month ago on June 3. The Senate has yet to act on the proposal. Continue reading STATE TO HELP RESTAURANTS →

Without an extension, the State moratorium is set to end on August 18

SOMERVILLE, MA – The City of Somerville’s moratorium on residential and commercial evictions is still in place and will remain in effect until the City’s state of emergency is lifted. Continue reading Somerville’s Eviction Moratorium Remains in Effect →

The Somerville Public Library will be offering contactless pickup for library patrons starting Monday, July 6. Patrons can request Somerville library materials online using their Minuteman account. Continue reading Somerville Public Library to Offer Contactless Pickup Starting July 6 →

Exceptions for Health and Human Services, which will proceed according to Governor’s schedule Continue reading Somerville Phase 3 Reopening & Gatherings to Follow Boston July 13 Schedule at Earliest, with Possible Later Openings →

Photo byHarry Agritha

Along with being illegal in Massachusetts, fireworks pose public health and safety threats. Fireworks can start fires, which can spread quickly through our densely populated neighborhoods. Continue reading Reminder to the Somerville Community to Not Set Off Fireworks →

Sponsored by STEALING SOMERVILLE Death of an Urban City To order STEALING SOMERVILLE go to: www.Amazon.com

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS FRIDAY, July 03, the 185th day of 2020 with 181 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 5:12 and sunset is @ 8:25. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are Mars, Neptune and Uranus. Evening stars are Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Venus.

ON THIS DAY IN: 1608 – The city of Quebec was founded by Samuel de Champlain. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

By Arthur Moore
I have spent my 75 years here being a flag waver and a person who was fortunate to be raised in a household that did not tolerate racism. As for the flag we have a set of rules for the care and honoring of it. Continue reading Reflections This Fourth of July In Somerville & Medford →

Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
“ City Councilors meeting minutes defund housing police”

Matt McLaughlin and Jesse Clingon Councillor of Ward 4 place a motion item 18 to eliminate the Somerville Housing Police at the June 11 th meeting. While the guns at the Mystics have been firing since early last year. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Defunding The Police, Not Such A Smart Idea,Ya Think? →

Somerville Police officers received a call of “Shots fired multiple shooting a 5 River Road in Somerville.” Continue reading Updated:Shots Fired Multiple Shooting 5 River Road Somerville →

Polygamy Legal in Somerville?

Billy, I wanted to make you aware of this recent decision in Somerville by your city council. Continue reading Letter to the Editor: Polygamy is Illegal In the State of Massachusetts But Apparently Not In Somerville →

Updated:Exactly 43 minutes of posting this article, the Somerville DPW had the eyesore all cleaned up! Thank you Somerville DPW for another job well done! The shopkeeper and it’s customers who made the mess in the first place should take responsibility on their own and not have to depend on other people to clean their mess!

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

Davis Square looks like a #@#%hole on this first summer Wednesday of July! How are people supposed to eat outside with this trash all over the sidewalk? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Davis Square Has Become the Newest Summer #@&#hole! Bon appétit →

Sponsored by STEALING SOMERVILLE Death of an Urban City To order STEALING SOMERVILLE go to: www.Amazon.com 

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, June 30, the 182nd day of 2020 with 184 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 5:10 and sunset is @ 8:25. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are Mars, Neptune and Uranus. Evening stars are Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1097 – The Crusaders defeated the Turks at Dorylaeum. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Click on link below to read June 30th, 2020 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tLzN3hrKHdNtIJ53AkAra6V7_FzBTxfD/view

Happy Birthday to a number of Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville and around the Square! Happy Birthday to Angela Perry, Richie Mochi, Joe Colarusso, Anthony Colarusso, John Cabral, Caroline Thompson, Mike Moccia, Aliana Oppedisano, Joelle Martin, Chloe DeMaria, Carmine DeMaria, Ryan McNeill, Scott Macinnes, Katherine Cremin, Donna J Clifford, Emily Yu, John Avakian, EJ Frammartino, Stacy Rogers, Rita Lyons, Stacy Ann, Len Ferrari, Annmarie Griffin, Jennifer Cucinotta Strykowski, Dawn Rae, Patricia Morrison Shaughnessy, Jay Flanagan, Tina Minson, Albert T Primo, Johnny Pizzi, Edie Shea, Mike LaFrance, Julia Taliesin, Sheila Analetto, Ambria Breen, Daisy Monsalve, Melanie Murray, Edward Tauro, Bob Staffiere, Ken Webber, Jen Oliveira, Jeffrey Harrington, Anthony Accardi, Rob Ciampi, Charlie Cappello, Paul Nonni, Barbara Zabriskie Williams, James Alcott, Barbara Favaloro, Daniel Cook, Billy Dalrymple, Heather Roderick, Tim Winn, Jodie Lynn and Happy 92nd Birthday to Jim Bremis

Continue reading The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

Washington St. bridge still flooding…..
2 years of work for what? 2 years of closure for what? Maybe drains are stuffed with the millions of wasted dollars..
Continue reading Letter from the Editor:Somerville’s Washington Street Bridge Still a Wash →

By Michael Diotisalvi

The Somerville Auxiliary Fire/Cert Team was requested this past Sunday night to the Norwood Hospital Continue reading Somerville Auxiliary Fire/Cert Team Helps Out Norwood Hospital During Flooding →

Strong local tax base, long-game fiscal management & strategic cuts enable City to avoid austerity measures;

$1.6 million allocated for new Racial and Social Justice investments funded in part via $750,000 in funds diverted from Somerville Police budget Continue reading Mayor Curtatone Submits FY2021 Budget with Belt-Tightening, But No Cuts to Services and No Layoffs →

SOMERVILLE, MA – Applications for this coming fiscal year’s Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds and the fiscal year 2021 Community Preservation Plan, which sets the funding allocations and priorities for the year, are now available. An estimated $630,000 is available for projects that preserve Somerville’s historic resources and/or expand and improve our parks and recreation land.

Continue reading Applications Available for Fiscal Year 2021 Community Preservation Act Funding Eligibility Determination Forms due July 17 at 4:30 p.m. →

SOMERVILLE, MA – The City of Somerville was named a 2019 Tree City USA award winner for the 25th time by the Arbor Day Foundation in recognition of the City’s commitment to urban forest management. Continue reading Somerville Named a Tree City USA and Growth Award Winner by the Arbor Day Foundation →

This summer is predicted to be hotter than normal and COVID-19 is making it more important than ever to be able to safely cool down at home. Continue reading Somerville Seeking Donations of New Air-Conditioning Units and Fans for Seniors in Need →

By Bob Katzen

The House 158-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would provide $1.1 billion to cover expenses related to response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading $1.1 BILLION FOR COVID-19 RESPONSE →

By Bob Katzen

The House 158-0, approved an amendment that would make Juneteenth Independence Day an official state holiday. Continue reading MAKE JUNETEENTH A STATE HOLIDAY →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a bill sponsors say will increase access to health care, protect patients and enhance quality care. Continue reading INCREASE ACCESS TO HEALTH CARE →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 38-0, approved an amendment that would require the Health Policy Commission to report on the adverse effects suffered after the closure of any essential services at a hospital. The amendment also would require an examination of the efficacy of existing standards and requirements intended to maintain such essential services. Continue reading CLOSURE OF ESSENTIAL SERVICES AT A HOSPITAL →

By Bob Katzen

Governor  Charlie Baker announced that the annual sales tax-free weekend will take place the weekend of August 29-30. In 2018, the Legislature approved, and Baker signed into law, legislation that made the tax-free weekend an annual event. Continue reading SALES TAX-FREE HOLIDAY WILL TAKE PLACE AUGUST 29-30 →

By Bob Katzen

The House in March and the Senate in early June, approved proposals that included $300 million in Chapter 90 funding for cities and towns for the maintenance, repair and improvement of local roads and bridges. Continue reading $200 MILLION FOR LOCAL ROADS AND BRIDGES →

Hi Billy,

I would like you to copy and print the story I just posted in Justice for Deanna Cremin about a man who has made it his mission to keep the memorial wreath hung at Deanna Cremin Square intact and dignified. Continue reading Letter to the Editor:Cremin Family Grateful for Act of Kindness at Deanna Cremin Square Somerville →

By Arthur Moore
Another from my brother Richard. This would be Park Street late 50’s, early 60’s.

4th of July
Back in the day, we had a tradition, a 4th of July block party. It was quite the thing too. Continue reading 4th of July of Somerville Yesteryear →

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

Why is it that each square is opening with outdoor seating and ball square only has about 8 tables on the sidewalk several remain closed.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Ball Square The Ugly Neglected Sister →

Hey,

I just signed the petition “Somerville city council: Support for the Somerville Police” and wanted to see if you could help by adding your name.

Our goal is to reach 1,000 signatures and we need more support. You can read more and sign the petition here:

Thanks!

http://chng.it/fwyc4NjBCt

Sponsored by STEALING SOMERVILLE Death of an Urban City To order STEALING SOMERVILLE go to: www.Amazon.com

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, June 23, the 175th day of 2020 with 191 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 5:07 and sunset is @ 8:25. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are Mars, Neptune and Uranus. Evening stars are Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1683 – William Penn signed a friendship treaty with Lenni Lenape Indians in Pennsylvania. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

All interested community members are invited to attend and speak at the Budget Public Hearing before the City Council’s Committee on Finance on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at 6 p.m., for public input on the proposed FY 2021 municipal budget. Continue reading City of Somerville FY20 Budget Public Hearing →

By Arthur Moore

This is the time to let the police come up with the ideas if any is needed to make changes in the way they do things. In this city we have been lucky on many ways to have mostly a good selection of officers. Granted the couple bad apples that were weeded out showed that the police for most matters can handle what is needed on any level. Continue reading Don’t Screw With The Blue →

Happy Birthday to a number of Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville and around the Square! Happy Birthday to Renee Grimes, Tina Beatty Hill, Jana Lynn Nally, Annie Catherine, Scott Capuano, Jun Jie Yang, Alice Keenan, Mike Delgizzi, John Eleftherakis, David Tauro, Larry Mulrey, Trish Vallery, Robert Holahan, Claire Seaboyer, Kathy Webber, Mary Murphy, Roger Fisk, Linda August Devereaux, Cory Mashburn, John Cannon, Kenneth Carroll, Karen A Jenner, Anthony Baliola, Michael Fronduto, Steven Marino, Continue reading The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

By Arthur Moore

Trying to determine which is worse is difficult. The Covid19 is just doing it one way where the city is getting you many ways. I watched this morning as I have the street cleaning issues. No one has a place to go. Continue reading City of Somerville Verses Covid19 →

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

If you and your readers want to dig a little further into these alegeded allegations that that are now surfacing that Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Allegations Surfacing Several Pharmacists Fired for Opiates Prescription Fraud →

Byron Barnett to Facilitate Panel Tuesday, June 23, with
Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D.A. Rachael Rollins, Sheriff Steven Tompkins, Mayor Yvonne Spicer, Mayor Joe Curtatone,
Councilor Will Mbah, School Committee Member Andre Green, and
SHS Black Student Union President Floreisha Bastien Continue reading Somerville to Host Rep. Pressley, D.A. Rollins, and other Regional Leaders for Panel Discussion on Structural Racism →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 40-0, approved a bill that would provide registered voters three options to cast a ballot in the September 1 primary and November 3 general election including extended early voting periods, voting in-person on Election Day and voting-by-mail. Continue reading EXPAND VOTING OPTIONS →

By Bob Katzen
The Senate 16-23, rejected an amendment that would replace a provision in the bill that requires Secretary Galvin, in conjunction with the Department of Public Health, to establish regulations requiring public health safeguards at early voting sites and polling places. Continue reading MORE DETAILS ON ENSURING SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE ELECTIONS →

By Bob Katzen
The Senate 10-29, rejected an amendment that would require absentee ballots only be processed during the normal hours of operation of the city or town hall and that a member of the board of registrars in the city or town representing the two Continue reading PROCESSING OF ABSENTEE BALLOTS →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate 39-0, approved an amendment to a section of the bill that requires Secretary Galvin to include early voting by mail applications with the voter information booklet that gets sent to every Bay State household in the fall. Continue reading VOTING BY MAIL APPLICATIONS APPROVED →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate passed a resolution commemorating June 19, 2020 as Juneteenth. Juneteenth is an unofficial holiday that celebrates June 19, 1865, the day when the remaining enslaved African Americans in the United States of America were told that they were free. Continue reading CELEBRATING JUNETEENTH →

By Bob Katzen

Attorney General Maura Healey announced today that her office has brought suit against an online travel agency and its CEO for taking money from consumers for travel reservations despite knowing they would be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and then refusing to pay refunds. Continue reading ATTORNEY GENERAL HEALEY SUES ONLINE TRAVEL AGENCY →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Charlie Baker, announced additional administrative tax relief measures for local businesses that have been adversely affected by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the restaurant and hospitality sectors. Continue reading TAX RELIEF FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Baker filed legislation to create a system for certifying Massachusetts law enforcement officers and ensure that police departments have access to candidates’ training and disciplinary records and provide incentives for officers to pursue advanced training to better serve their communities. Continue reading CERTIFYING POLICE OFFICERS →

Going into this year’s budget season, we’ve gotten a lot of questions from residents about how the budget process works. To help residents better understand the process and how to participate, the City’s Budget Manager is doing a live “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) event at http://www.reddit.com/r/somerville starting at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 22. Continue reading Somerville Budget Manager to Host Reddit AMA (Q&A) Session on Budget: Monday, 6/22, 11 a.m. →

$1 million in emergency small business support to be distributed to 123 local small businesses

SOMERVILLE, MA – Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone today announced that $1 million in Somerville Small Business COVID-19 Relief funds will be awarded to 123 local, small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading Somerville Small Business COVID-19 Relief Fund Loan Recipients Announced →

Somerville’s second Shared Streets route, which connects West Somerville and Davis Square, is set to open Tuesday, June 23. The Shared Streets initiative opens up low-volume or residential side-streets to pedestrians, cyclists, and other users while still allowing vehicle access for residents Continue reading Somerville’s Second Shared Streets Route to Open in West Somerville →

“Without all of the hustle and bustle of heading into Boston, why not just head locally right in Winchester at TAVOLA RESTAURANT where a little piece of Italy is waiting for you!”
“It’s as close as you can get for a real authentic Italian dining experience that will keep you coming back for more” “Definitely a two thumbs up rating and absolutely worth checking them out!” Somerville/Medford News Weekly/Boston News Group Continue reading A TAVOLA RESTAURANT WINCHESTER OPEN FOR OUTDOOR PATIO DINING & TAKEOUT ORDERS: (781)729-1040 34 CHURCH STREET WINCHESTER →

SOMERVILLE, MA – Pools, playgrounds, and splash pads will be opening in Somerville soon with new safety protocols in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The City is also putting summer face covering guidelines into effect. Effective immediately, face coverings are still required for people ages 2 and up at all times when in public both indoors and outdoors, with the exception that during the hot weather season masks may be removed temporarily when outdoors if a distance of at least six feet from others can be maintained. Medical and disability exceptions continue to apply. Finally, as part of the City’s Beat the Heat efforts, all are encouraged to review our heat safety tips and ideas for keeping cool.
Continue reading Somerville Summer Updates: Pool, Splash Pad, and Playground Openings New Summer Face Covering Guidelines Heat Safety Tips →

”If you’re looking for one of the best Italian restaurant dining experiences out there, well this is the place! We give them a two thumbs up” Somerville/Medford News Weekly/Boston News Group  Continue reading Luna Rossa Ristorante →

Many Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday greetings go out to Lynda Norton,John J., Will and Sam Alberts, Grbz Joseph, Robert S McCarthy, James Findlay, Jose Mesmar, Sean Clifford, Anthony Lima, Jack Kehoe, Noah Kreatz, Elaina Manolis, Marie DiDomenico, Kelsie Ann, Mia DeMarco, Joannie Allison, Continue reading The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

Sponsored by STEALING SOMERVILLE Death of an Urban City To order STEALING SOMERVILLE go to: www.Amazon.com 

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, June 16, the 168th day of 2020 with 198 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 5:06 and sunset is @ 8:23. The moon is waning. The morning stars are Mars, Neptune and Uranus. Evening stars are Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 0455 – Rome was sacked by the Vandal army.
1487 – The War of the Roses ended with the Battle of Stoke. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Click on link below to read June 16th, 2020 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aLPAFvqNsBKLSxehRAZH5O24n6Q7p28V/view

By William Tauro

How can a Somerville Police sergeant be on a paid medical leave for over a year or more while he’s working for a Cambridge Massachusetts landscaping company? Continue reading Letter From The Editor:Somerville Cop Taking Taxpayers For A Ride →

Free service will augment existing test site at Somerville Hospital

SOMERVILLE, MA – The City of Somerville, Cataldo Ambulance, and Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) formally launch their mobile COVID-19 testing unit in Somerville this week. Continue reading Somerville Launches Mobile COVID-19 Testing Unit →

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

If Somerville is so systematic racist, what has Curtaphoney done in his tenure as mayor? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Systematic Racism, You Own The Past 14 Years Mayor Joe! →

By Arthur Moore

Wishing all fathers a happy father’s day. A special father’s day wish to all the police who won’t be home that day because they are out protecting us. Continue reading Very Special Father’s Day Wishes 2020 →

BOSTON– Representative Christine P. Barber (D-34th Middlesex) of Somerville and Medford, led an effort along with Hannah Kane (R-11th Worcester) and Jay Livingstone (D-8th Suffolk District) that resulted in the extension of children’s meal sites throughout Massachusetts for the entire summer. Continue reading Representative Barber Leads Successful Effort to Ensure Meal Sites for Children Continue to Operate throughout the Summer →

By Bob Katzen

Team Sharing, a Massachusetts-based organization comprised of parents who have lost a child to an opioid overdose, is urging Gov. Baker and other governors across the nation to fly flags at half-mast on August 31, International Overdose Awareness Day, in memory of all the people who have died from an overdose. Continue reading FLY FLAGS AT HALF-MAST TO RECOGNIZE OPIOID DEATHS →

By Bob Katzen

Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) is leading the charge to oppose some parts of the Information Technology bill including $92.5 million in spending on purchasing police cruisers and additional funding of Department of Corrections vehicles and construction of new prisons. Continue reading OPPOSE SPENDING ON POLICE AND PRISON VEHICLES AND NEW PRISONS →

By Bob Katzen
PROHIBIT PRICE GOUGING – Attorney General Maura Healey held a hearing on implementing stronger price gouging protections for consumers and making permanent the temporary emergency price gouging regulations put into place at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading PROHIBIT PRICE GOUGING →

By Bob Katzen

A bill that would create a special 20-member commission to examine and make recommendations to reduce or eliminate racial disparities in the death of mothers before, during and after childbirth was given a favorable report by the Health Care Financing Committee. Continue reading RACIAL DISPARITIES IN MATERNAL MORTALITY →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate adopted, on a voice vote without a roll call, a measure establishing temporary emergency Senate rules in light of COVID-19. The rules are similar to the ones approved by the House for its operation. Continue reading EMERGENCY SENATE RULES →

By Bob Katzen

House Speaker Robert DeLeo and Rep. Carlos Gonzalez (D-Springfield), the chair of the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus met and then released a statement outlining the major points of a police reform bill that would ban officers’ use of chokeholds. Continue reading BAN USE OF CHOKEHOLDS →

By Bob Katzen

The Revenue Committee accepted written testimony on legislation that would exempt facial coverings from the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax. Continue reading EXEMPT FACE MASKS FROM THE SALES TAX →

By Bob Katzen

The Higher Education Committee accepted written testimony on a bill that would require the Massachusetts Educational Financing Authority and Continue reading SUSPEND PAYMENT OF STUDENT COLLEGE LOANS →

By Bob Katzen
Governor  Charlie Baker signed into law a bill that would lower the number of voters needed at an open town meeting in order to have a quorum. Continue reading HELP CITY AND TOWN GOVERNMENTS →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate, on a voice vote without a roll call, approved a bill that includes $300 million for cities and towns for the maintenance, repair and improvement of local roads and bridges. The $300 million is $100 million more than the $200 million the state allocated last year. Continue reading $300 MILLION FOR LOCAL ROADS AND BRIDGES →

SOMERVILLE, MA — The Somerville School Committee and the Somerville Teachers Association (STA) Paraprofessionals Unit C reached a tentative agreement yesterday on a 3-year contract that reflects the City’s and District’s commitment to equity and the important role that Paraprofessionals play in our schools supporting and working with classroom teachers. Continue reading Somerville School Committee, STA Paraprofessionals Reach Tentative 3-Year Agreement →

City-Required Site Safety Plans, Contact Tracing Requirements, and Cleaning Protocols Added to Enhance Safety and Sustainability of Reopening

Creative Sidewalk Expansion Efforts, Proposed Expedited Permitting Underway to Support Outdoor Dining Continue reading Somerville’s Phase II Reopening Schedule Matches State’s Timeline and Increases Safety Measures →

We install split A/C/Heating Units give us a call! SUPERIOR HEATING VENTILATION & AIR CONDITIONING (617)625-0386 Continue reading Need A/C But Don’t Have Duct Work? SUPERIOR HEATING VENTILATION & AIR CONDITIONING (617)625-0386 →

Continue reading Neighborhood Restaurant Outdoor Seating & Takeout Open for Business →

Virtual employment/job training opportunities available.

SOMERVILLE, MA – Attention Somerville youth! The Mayor’s Summer Jobs Program will be accepting applications for summer 2020 starting Tuesday, June 9. Continue reading Applications for Mayor’s Summer Jobs Program Available →

– City-Required Site Safety Plans, Contact Tracing Requirements, and Cleaning Protocols Added to Enhance Safety and Sustainability of Reopening

– Creative Sidewalk Expansion Efforts, Proposed Expedited Permitting Underway to Support Outdoor Dining Continue reading Somerville’s Phase II Reopening Schedule Matches State’s Timeline and Increases Safety Measures →

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

Hey Billy, can’t really talk. Just got a call. I guess someone posted a loose threat about Curtatone on Facebook. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville Mayor Call’s Upon Police and Feds For Immediate Protection Fear of Facebook Post →

Somerville, MA—First Liberty Institute and the Massachusetts Family Institute today sent a letter to Somerville, Massachusetts Mayor Joseph Curtatone informing him that several churches in the city will immediately resume in-person church services on June 14, 2020. Continue reading Churches Inform Somerville Mayor of Plans to Immediately Resume In-Person Church Gatherings Despite His Order →

By Arthur Moore

What is meant here is that they will take much needed money from the police department and shift it to other departments. We need for the police department to stay up to date on equipment and purchase new types of equipment as it comes out to stay the best. Continue reading Defunding Police, The Reverse of What The Police Department Needs →

By Arthur Moore

Yes, it is exactly what this city is doing. Don’t get me wrong, (I am not against the peaceful protest) but if they can allow that with no problem and not break it up them I see no reason for people to go into a restaurant and enjoy a meal. They will have less contact. Continue reading Screw the Restaurants in Somerville →

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

The City of Somerville should be ashamed of themselves for ticketing cars during this difficult time. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:City of Somerville Should Be Ashamed of Themselves Ticketing During Difficult Time →

Next week, the City Council begins its consideration of the Mayor’s proposed FY 2021 budget. I will be focusing on the police budget.

The Minneapolis police murder of George Floyd has unleashed an outpouring of anger about policing in America. Continue reading Ward 5 City Councilor Mark Niedergang: Focusing on Cutting Police Budget →

Click on link below to read:June 9th, 2020 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uiLgN54spPdd6ZF3pOgcOzGfCAYL1hbO/view

Many Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville! Happy Birthday greetings go out to John Heymann, Charlie McCarthy, Diana Martins Reilly, Aprile Boos, Barbara McKenna-Richardson, Rebecca Gil, Paul Cammarata, Terence Mcgeogheanmcgeoghean, Eric Tedesco, Marilyn Paladino, Denise Napolitano Grosse, Anthony David, Kamala Vasanthakumar, Anna Rebelo, Maxine Koerber, Carolyn Pedersen, Carol Barilka, Jim Povio, Ed Starr, Michael T. Dwyer, Chuck Roche, Roseanne Jackson, John F. Burke, Raíssa Storch, Jim Crowley, Damenta Damenta, Ricky Migliacci, Don Bohnwagner Sr., Richard Leccese, Darlene Cetrullo, Sharon Sheppard, Peter Westcott, Louise Fiorenzio, Kathleen Donofrio, Donna M. Quinn, Lorraine Benoit, Sandra Heron, Pat Centofanti, Verge Figueiredo, Darlyne Harff, Larry Bethune, Melissa Reddin Hickey, Chanel Cyrus, Danielle Vitiello, Mercedes Barata-Larregola, Mira McCabe, Karen Lambert, Erin Mcphee Donovan, Mathew Richardson, Dina Sinatra Reeves, Tim Toomey, Frank Zaganjori, Jennifer Dever Wood, Nancy Galvin, Happy 10th Birthday to Jayden Vasanthakumar, Happy Sweet 16 Birthday to Lauren Crockton and Happy 6th Birthday to Kody Koehn
Continue reading The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

On 5/29/20 Det. S. Jones and Sgt. J. Gobiel were on detail assignment when they were approached by Citizens Bank branch manager, XXXX, who stated that a female had just passed a note to a teller and robbed the bank. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Jodie PERKINS (Unarmed Robbery) →

The following is a brief summary to incident # 20027452.

On 05/29/2020, I was assigned in a street clothes capacity assigned to the Drug Control Unit. At 5:25 PM, I observed XXXX (DOB XXXX) walking on School Street towards Evergreen Ave. Continue reading Real Life Somerville Police Stories: Joseph MENDEZ (Drug, Distribute Class A) →

Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Arrest Log 5/25/20 – 6/7/20 →

Our sincere condolences thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Warren E. Fencl on his passing. Continue reading Somerville Remembering Warren E. Fencl →

By Arthur Moore

Phase two leaves much thinking by the state that was left out. Outside seating as appealing to some as it may be leaves much of the restaurants out of luck. Continue reading Phase Two a Disappointment →

The City of Somerville will hold a virtual information session and public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2021 water and sewer rates on Thursday, June 11. Continue reading Information Session and Public Hearing on FY2021 Water and Sewer Rates, June 11 →

Somerville — Catia Sharp, a candidate for the seat to be vacated by Representative Denise Provost, today filed a formal objection with the Ballot Law Commission requesting an inquiry into Erika Uyterhoeven’s eligibility to appear on the ballot in the 27th Middlesex district in the September 1st primary.
Continue reading Sharp Questions Uyterhoeven’s Eligibility to Run for House Seat →

Top two photos:by Rosalee Zammuto
Bottom photos:by Andy McGrath Continue reading This Weekend Protester Photos From Around Somerville →

By Bob Katzen

The House 16-139, rejected an amendment that would allow voters to register to vote at the polls on Election Day. Under current law, a person must register at least 20 days before the date of the election. Continue reading ELECTION DAY REGISTRATION →

By Bob Katzen

Despite the serious times and the state facing several crises, a total of 125 incumbent Republican and Democratic legislators will face no major party challenger in either the Sept. 1 primary election or the Nov. 3 general election. Continue reading MOST HOUSE AND SENATE INCUMBENTS ARE UNCHALLENGED →

By Bob Katzen

The Labor and Workforce Development Committee accepted written and video testimony on a bill that would create a legal presumption that any COVID-19 diagnosis of a front-line health worker is work-related. Continue reading FRONT LINE HEALTH WORKERS BILL →

By Bob Katzen

The seven justices of the state’s SJC penned an open letter to members of the Judiciary and attorneys across the state. Here are some excerpts:

“The events of the last few months have reminded us of what African Americans know all too well: that too often, by too many, black lives are not treated with the dignity and respect accorded to white lives. Continue reading SUPREME JUDICIAL COURT (SJC) WEIGHS IN →

Photo by William Tauro

By Bob Katzen

A bill filed last week by Sen. Diana DiZoglio (D-Methuen) would allow restaurants to sell sealed containers of mixed drinks with take-out and delivery orders. Continue reading MASS TO ALLOW RESTAURANTS TO SELL HARD LIQUOR →

Sponsored by STEALING SOMERVILLE Death of an Urban City To order STEALING SOMERVILLE go to: www.Amazon.com

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS SUNDAY, June 07, the 159th day of 2020 with 207 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 5:07 and sunset is @ 8:18. The moon is waning. The morning stars are Mars, Neptune and Uranus. Evening stars are Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1494 – Spain and Portugal divided the new lands they had discovered between themselves. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

By Arthur Moore

I will start by saying this is just a personal view. As for the Floyd incident to trigger this off I am not sure we have all the facts yet to decide if it is even race related. It is said they knew each other. Continue reading Thoughts on Today’s Racism →

By William Tauro

Somerville under Covid19 pandemic restrictions and all going on while racial motivated riots with looting alerts throughout our city streets but the mayor wants change in the Somerville Police Department. If our police department is so expendable, why are they patrolling our streets at Assembly Row and Davis Square for looting and why in the world is Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone being escorted around the city in a chauffeured SUV driven by an armed Somerville police officer? Continue reading Practice What You Preach In Somerville Mayor Curtatone →

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

Mr. Tauro, I frequently walk highland ave with my granddaughter while my daughter and husband are working and trying to make ends meet during this difficult time. After seeing your post today and the Somerville official not wearing his required mandatory mask. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:My Kids Matter! →

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

This sign in located on the Bike path in Somerville. I thought Somerville is family friendly. I’m applauded that  my children are seeing this. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:BLM Sign/Foul Language on Community Path →

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

This is a PMA employee hired by the City of Somerville to oversee the operation he is on Highland Avenue  with no mask or face covering during this covid-19 pandemic. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville City Employee Breaking City’s Own Rules →

By Gene Brune

What have we learned listening and watching all that has happened and continuing today regarding the sad ending of the life of George Floyd? When I first watched on television the police officer holding down Floyd with his knee putting pressure on Floyd’s neck and listening to Floyd begging for him to stop as he couldn’t breathe, I immediately felt disgust for the police officer. Continue reading HAVE WE LEARNED ANYTHING? →

Mayor Curtatone Announces Next Steps in Ongoing Efforts to Provide Just, Unbiased, and Compassionate Community Policing

Establishment of Civilian Oversight Committee,
Continued Pursuit of Officer Body Cameras,
Changes to Asset Forfeiture Funding Policies,
Call for State-Level Special Prosecutor for Police Violence Cases, Continue reading Somerville to Officially Declare Systemic Racism a Public Safety and Health Emergency →

A fire early this morning, June 3, 2020 resulted in heavy damage to a vacant, two family dwelling located at 32 Webster Avenue. Continue reading Early Morning Somerville House Fire →

By Arthur Moore

We have upgraded the game since then. The students of games has started a new one called shared streets. Continue reading Somerville, The Good Ol Days Playing Dodge Ball →

Dear Editor,

Our leadership in Somerville just may be help causing these problems in the recent riots around the nation as well as here in Boston and soon in Somerville? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville Elected Officials Enticing Riots →

Our sincere condolences thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of William “Bill” Gunning Sr on his passing.

Continue reading Somerville Remembering William “Bill” Gunning Sr →

Sponsored by STEALING SOMERVILLE Death of an Urban City To order STEALING SOMERVILLE go to: www.Amazon.com

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS TUESDAY, June 02, the 154th day of 2020 with 212 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 5:09 and sunset is @ 8:15. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are Mars, Neptune and Uranus. Evening stars are Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1537 – Pope Paul III banned the enslavement of Indians. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Congratulations to City of Somerville and the Somerville Police Department for doing a spectacular job tonight and an amazing show of power and strength tonight in diverting these culprits from destroying our city! Thank you!

Click on link below to read June 2nd, 2020 The Somerville News Weekly Print Edition Online: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q79KLAmtqxKUYZVmusENrRp-eu0kaD7S/view

Happy Birthday to a number of Villens celebrating their birthdays this week in the Ville and around the Square! Happy Birthday to Joe Hall, Frank Olivieri, Larry Travaglione, Randy MacArthur, Leo Henry, Liam McCain, Darlene Kelly Dumond, Eddie Baldasaro, Bill Hill, Bill White, Lori Santos Santoro, Wai Lee, Luis Guzman, Antonio D. Agostino, Dorene Jenkins, Anthony P. Carvello, Continue reading The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Favorite Birthday Photos of the Week →

By William Tauro

Dozens of heavily armed local Somerville Police officers, Transit Police and Massachusetts State Troopers have surrounded Somerville’s Assembly Row this past Monday night. Continue reading Somerville’s Assembly Row Under Looting Alert →

By Bob Katzen

Governor Charlie Baker signed into law legislation that supporters say will provide additional unemployment insurance relief to low-income families, non-profit institutions and employers.

Provisions include ensuring 30 weeks instead of 26 weeks of unemployment compensation during any week in which there are Continue reading IMPROVE UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS →

By Bob Katzen

After several weeks of differences between the House and Senate, the two branches agreed on and sent to Gov. Baker a bill that would require that the Department of Public Health (DPH) compile, collect and issue daily online reports on the number of people tested for COVID-19. Continue reading STATE TO COLLECT VITAL COVID-19 DATA →

By Bob Katzen

Representative Josh Cutler (D-Duxbury) filed legislation that would exempt facial coverings from the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax.

Supporters said the demand for face masks to help prevent the spread of the virus is expected to increase dramatically with new workplace regulations going into effect. Continue reading EXEMPT FACE MASKS FROM THE SALES TAX →

By Bob Katzen

Attorney General Maura Healey’s office announced it will award $500,000 in grants to cities and towns to provide financial relief to small businesses impacted by closures and losses as a result of COVID-19. Continue reading $500,000 FOR SMALL BUSINESSES AFFECTED BY COVID-19 →

By Bob Katzen

State Auditor Suzanne Bump urged the state to reimburse communities $727,169.37 to cover the costs of mandated early voting expenses in the 2020 presidential primary election. She also urged the Legislature to create a permanent process to fund this service automatically following each election.
Continue reading STATE OWES CITIES AND TOWNS $727,000 FOR EARLY VOTING EXPENSES →

Sponsored by STEALING SOMERVILLE Death of an Urban City To order STEALING SOMERVILLE go to: www.Amazon.com

GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS MONDAY, June 01, the 153rd day of 2020 with 213 to follow. Sunrise in the Boston area is @ 5:09 and sunset is @ 8:14. The moon is waxing. The morning stars are Mars, Neptune and Uranus. Evening stars are Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus and Venus.
ON THIS DAY IN: 1533 – Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s new queen, was crowned. Continue reading GOOD MORNING – TODAY IS by John Dwyer →

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’sFirefighters Memorial Sunday has been postponed. Continue reading Somerville Firefighters Local 76 Updates: Firefighters Memorial Sunday Postponed →

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

What would these liberal progressives do if a riot took place in Somerville and destroyed personal and public property?

Of course, I wouldn’t want that to happen because many of my friends are police officers, but I wonder what Joe and the city council would do. Would he order a stand down? Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:What Would Curtatone Do If Riots Hit Home? →