By Bob Katzen
The House 152-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would modernize and remove archaic language in state laws to reflect the evolution of terminology relating to persons with disabilities. The Senate has already approved a different version of the measure, and the House version now goes to the Senate for consideration.
Continue reading CHANGE ARCHAIC LANGUAGE REFERRING TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (H 4704)
November 4th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online November 4th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading November 4th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
2025 Somerville Election Results:
Continue reading Jake Wilson Elected New Mayor of Somerville: 2025 Somerville Election Results
Rosita Legerme Oriol from Nashua, New Hampshire
Born in Petit Goave, Haiti, on October 20, 1931, Rosita Legerme Oriol passed peacefully in her sleep at Community Hospice House in Merrimack NH on October 28, 2025 at 4:32am. Rosita is Survived by her children, Gerald and his wife Kettly Gelin Oriol of Windham NH , Margarette Oriol Getant and her husband Jean Claude Getant of Nashua NH.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rosita Legerme Oriol
SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is seeking one new youth member to join the Somerville Urban Forestry Committee. If you’re passionate about protecting and cultivating our local urban forest, this is a great opportunity to make an impact.
Continue reading Join the Somerville Urban Forestry Committee
SOMERVILLE—Help us honor our local veteran community and all those who have served in the U.S. Military this Veterans Day. Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services invite community members to attend a Veterans Day Wreath-Laying ceremony at the George Dilboy VFW Post 529 (351 Summer St.), on Tuesday, November 11. Continue reading Somerville Honoring Veterans Day 2025 Ceremony and wreath-laying on Tuesday, November 11
Obituary
Ernest Ramon Morrison, affectionately known as Ernie, passed away peacefully at his home in Somerville, Massachusetts, on October 31, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on May 19, 1938, in Summerville, West Virginia, to Lizzie and Anthony Morrison, Ernie was the tenth of eleven children. He cherished his childhood memories of hunting and fishing with his brothers on Lone Mountain. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ernest Ramon Morrison
Bring and smash your Halloween pumpkins (or smash one provided) at this family-friendly event on November 8th 10:30-1pm.! Continue reading Somerville Pumpkin Smash
Congratulations to Fire Lieutenant James Piwinski on his retirement for the Somerville Fire Department (effective February 2025)
Continue reading Somerville Firefighters Local 76 News Updates

Tim Flaherty | Priorities
https://share.google/bFPh4cPw8AJZiAmHL
Continue reading Tim Flaherty for Cambridge City Council!
By Bob Katzen
“Massachusetts’ innovation economy is the foundation of our competitiveness. It fuels discovery, drives growth and sustains good jobs in every region of the state. Through the DRIVE Initiative, we are taking action to protect our leadership in science and technology and support the institutions and workers that make it possible and ensure that Massachusetts continues to lead the nation in solving the world’s hardest problems.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
Another bill before the Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight would create an 11-member permanent Commission on the Status of People who practice Islam.
Continue reading CREATE COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF PEOPLE WHO PRACTICE ISLAM (H 3351)
By Bob Katzen
The Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight held a hearing on a bill that would require state boards and commissions to have, or explain why they do not have, a minimum percentage of members who are female, LGBTQ+ or an underrepresented minority. The percentages would change over time to match census data to reflect the population of Massachusetts.
Continue reading ENSURE GENDER PARITY AND ETHNIC DIVERSITY ON PUBLIC BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS (S 2160/H 3398)
By Bob Katzen
A bill before the Veterans and Federal Affairs Committee would allow a state employer to offer their employees health insurance on day one of their new job. Currently, there is a gap in insurance coverage when new state employees begin their jobs.
Continue reading EXPAND HEALTH INSURANCE ACCESS FOR STATE EMPLOYEES (S 822)
By Bob Katzen
A bill heard by the Veterans and Federal Affairs Committee would prohibit cities and towns from publishing the name of a veteran who owes the municipality taxes. Instead, the Veterans’ Service officer (VSO) of the city or town would contact the veteran privately and provide him or her with information regarding their overdue tax situation. Many cities and towns currently publish the names of their taxpayers, including veterans, who owe the municipality back taxes.
Continue reading PROHIBIT PUBLISHING OF NAMES OF VETERANS WHO OWE TAXES (H 3869)
By Bob Katzen
The Revenue Committee held a hearing on a proposal that would create a new regulatory structure for and legalize peer-to-peer cardrooms in which people play against each rather than the house. The measure would allow licensed “pari-mutuel” facilities, like horse racing tracks, to operate cardrooms featuring poker and dominoes. The regulatory authority would be the Massachusetts Gaming Commission’s Division of Racing, which would oversee licensing, operations and taxation.
Continue reading PEER-TO-PEER CARD GAMES AND DOMINOES (H 3177)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to legislation that would amend the eligibility for disabled veterans to receive a veteran’s plate, without a charge, to include veterans who suffer from a mental disability by reason of service in the armed forces.
Continue reading VETERANS DISABILITY LICENSE PLATE (H 3657)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate approved two separate measures urging action from the state and federal government to provide funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) – the federal food security program that provides food to more than 40 million United States residents, including 1 million residents of Massachusetts.
Continue reading THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN AND SNAP AND OTHER BENEFITS AND PROGRAMS
By Bob Katzen
The House 133-22, approved an amendment requiring that each school district report annually to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education the number of reading specialists, reading interventionists, literacy coordinators, school librarians, library aides, education support professionals and other staff employed by the district that directly support student reading and literacy development.
Continue reading SCHOOL DISTRICTS MUST REPORT ANNUALLY (H 4672)
By Bob Katzen
The House 132-22, approved an amendment to a bill that would provide a framework for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to identify and approve a list of high-quality curricula that school districts will select from for kindergarten through third grade literacy.
Continue reading STUDY EDUCATION WORKFORCE IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS (H 4672)
By Bob Katzen
The House 155-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would provide a framework for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to identify and approve a list of high-quality curricula that school districts will select from for kindergarten through third grade literacy. It also allows districts to apply to DESE to use a K-3 literacy instruction curriculum that is not on DESE’s list of high-quality curricula, provided DESE verifies that it uses evidence-based literacy instruction.
Continue reading TEACHER PREPARATION AND STUDENT LITERACY (H 4672)
By Bob Katzen
The House 155-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that makes it easier for students to receive a State Seal of Biliteracy which is awarded by school districts to students who have attained a high level of proficiency in English and at least one other language. The seal appears on the transcript or diploma of the graduating senior and is a statement of accomplishment for future college admission and employers.
Continue reading STATE SEAL OF BILITERACY (H 4671)
By Bob Katzen
The House 155-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would create a Financial Literacy Trust Fund for educating middle- and high-school students on personal financial literacy. The funds would be used for procurement, development and distribution of personal financial literacy educational resources and materials, as well as professional development opportunities, including training, seminars, conferences and materials for educators to use in teaching personal financial literacy.
Continue reading FINANCIAL LITERACY (H 4670)
Obituary
Earnest R. Morrison of Somerville passed away at home surrounded by his family on October 31, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Mary C. (Nardella) Morrison. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Earnest R. Morrison
SOMERVILLE – November SNAP benefits could be delayed if the federal government doesn’t resolve the shutdown or provide emergency funding. SNAP provides about $212 million each month to Massachusetts residents. Benefits are issued between the 1st and 14th. Both SNAP recipients as well as grocery stores and farmers (who will see decreased food purchases) will be affected.
Continue reading SNAP Delay: Food Resources in Somerville and How to Help
SOMERVILLE– Your city, your voice, your vote. Next week on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the City of Somerville will hold its Municipal Election, open to all registered voters in Somerville.
Continue reading Somerville Sharing Final Reminders for Nov. 4 Municipal Election
Survey and focus group data will help inform the Construction Advisory Group’s Recommendations
to Mayor Ballantyne on Location and Scope of the Project
SOMERVILLE– The results of an extensive community engagement process regarding the City’s plans for a
new prekindergarten through eighth grade (PK-8) School Building were shared at Monday (10/27) night’s Construction Advisory Group (CAG) meeting and are now available online.
Continue reading Survey and Focus Group Input on New PK-8 School Building Released
SOMERVILLE—Help us honor our local veteran community and all those who have served in the U.S. Military this Veterans Day. Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services invite community members to attend a Veterans Day Wreath-Laying ceremony at the George Dilboy VFW Post 529 (351 Summer St.), on Tuesday, November 11. Continue reading Somerville Honoring Veterans Day 2025 Ceremony and wreath-laying on Tuesday, November 11
Obituary
Jeanette D. Conley, affectionately known as “Jan”, passed away surrounded by her loving family on October 29, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late Joseph Conley. Jan was a devoted mother to Kevin Conley and his wife Cindy of Haverhill and Georgetown, ME, and Kathy Conley and her partner Bob Dacey of Boston. She was predeceased by her son Mark Conley, and is survived by his wife Marcy of Stow, MA. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Jeanette D. Conley
“Congratulations to Fire Lieutenant Blanca Alcaraz on her retirement from the Somerville Fire Department Continue reading Somerville Firefighters Local 76 News Updates
This service change is taking place to continue work to install Green Line Train Protection System infrastructure.
Continue reading Green Line Will Be Suspended Between Park Street and Union Square, Medford/Tufts from November 4 at 8 PM Through November 13
Residential Breaking and Entering
25065663: On 10/21/25 at approximately 12:19 PM, Somerville Police responded to a residence on Lincoln St for report of a breaking and entering. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated someone broke into her residence and stole cash and jewelry. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log
Project Created and Funded by Community in Participatory Budgeting Process
SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Ward 1 Councilor Matthew McLaughlin invite community members to join the City of Somerville for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the new shade structure at Capuano Playground. The event will take place on Thursday, October 30, at 3 p.m., at Capuano Playground (150 Glen St).
Continue reading New Shade Structure Funded by Participatory Budgeting Process to Open With Ribbon Cutting 10/30 at Capuano Playground
For all your computer needs! Continue reading Somerville Computers The Best Of The Best
October 28th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online October 28th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1) Continue reading October 28th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Somerville Firefighters Local 76 is proud to endorse these candidates for the upcoming election.
Continue reading Somerville Firefighters Local 76 Endorsements
Last day for hazardous waste drop-off Saturday 11/8
Last week for yard waste pickup 12/8-12/12
SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Department of Public Works (DPW) wishes to remind residents that the last days for hazardous and yard waste collection this season are quickly approaching. DPW collection of these materials will resume in Spring 2026 as per the usual seasonal cycle.
Continue reading Somerville’s Hazardous and Yard Waste Pickup Deadlines Approaching
Obituary
Marie (Boucher) Bolger, of Somerville, passed away on October 25, 2025. She was 71. Born and raised in Somerville, Marie was the daughter of the late Janet (Baril) and Robert Boucher. A graduate of Somerville High School, Marie went on to work in healthcare as a nursing aide before raising her family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marie (Boucher) Bolger
Obituary
Marie (Pierre) Calixte – Of Cambridge, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, October 18, 2025. She was 90 years young.
Complete obit to be posted. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marie (Pierre) Calixte
Obituary
Brayton, Ellen K. (KisKaddon). Beloved wife of 76 years to James F. Brayton, she was a former long-time resident of Little Compton, RI, and Westport, MA. She was the cherished daughter of the late Margaret and Charles Kiskaddon. A loving mother, she is survived by her son Flint Brayton and his wife Phyllis of Silver Spring, MD, and her daughter Leslie Brayton and her husband Greg Hagan of Somerville, MA. She was predeceased by her son Dana Brayton and his wife Erin. She was the sister of the late Graham, Robert, and William Kiskaddon.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Brayton, Ellen K. (KisKaddon)
Obituary
In life all good things must eventually come to an end, and it is with heavy hearts that we say, we lost our beautiful Mom, Dorothy ‘Dottie’ Haker Gramolini Cronin. She instilled the sun into our hearts, and the music and the bright light that we as a family have always felt, together and apart. She went peacefully and quickly, with family at her side. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Dorothy A. (Haker) Cronin
Obituary
Roseanne Mitrano, of Arlington, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on October 22, 2025, she was 66. Born in Somerville, she was the cherished daughter of Eleanor (Fustolo) Mitrano of Arlington and the late Vincent Mitrano.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Roseanne Mitrano
Obituary
Walter T. “Trax” Pietrzak, 83, of West Yarmouth, Massachusetts, also affectionately known as Władzu, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on Monday, October 20, 2025. Born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, to Stanley and Jane (Zinkiewicz) Pietrzak, he embodied the values of his Midwestern roots—humility, hard work, and kindness toward others. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Walter T. “Trax” Pietrzak
Reminders for voter registration, vote-by-mail, and absentee ballot application deadlines
SOMERVILLE—Make your voice heard, on your schedule. Early voting for the City of Somerville’s Municipal Election begins next week from Tuesday, October 28, to Thursday, October 30, at City Hall (93 Highland Ave.) during regular business hours. Full schedule is below:
Continue reading Vote Early in Somerville’s Municipal Election at City Hall Oct. 28-30
The Three Stooges Meet Bob and Carol and Ted and Alice
BY JOE VIGLIONE
Joe Viglione Review: People love the juvenile, violent humor of the Three Stooges though I grew out of it rather quickly. The sophomoric domestic abuse Moe Howard would exact on his brethren…and Howard would make excuses on the Mike Douglas Show how the Westerns were even more violent, well, this kind of over the top insanity infiltrates the 2025 Splitsville and this critic thinks that it distracts. Continue reading Splitsville – the interview Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin double as the writers and stars of the film
Somerville’s Risk Level Remains at Moderate Level
SOMERVILLE— The Somerville Health and Human Services Department is sharing that Massachusetts Department
of Public Health (DPH) officials today announced the season’s ninth human case of West Nile virus (WNV) diagnosed in a man in his 50s with exposure in Middlesex County.
Continue reading Community Health Alert: Ninth Human Case of West Nile Virus Identified in Massachusetts
City Accepting Applications Until Wednesday, November 26th
SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is seeking three (3) new members to join the Somerville Commission for Persons with Disabilities (SCPD). If you’re passionate about making sure the vital protections in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for individuals with disabilities are preserved, this is a great opportunity to make an impact. Continue reading Join the Somerville Commission for Persons with Disabilities
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PSA:
Over the past several months, Somerville has taken 86 car break reports. These breaks have occurred throughout the city. Continue reading Somerville Police Department News Update
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
The three unit building adjacent to mine is under the oversight of a property management company that, unfortunately, seems to struggle with maintenance. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Rat Problem
By Bob Katzen
This bill would prohibit a manufacturer from selling any cosmetic product in the Bay State that the manufacturer knew, or reasonably should have known, that animal testing was used to produce the product.
Continue reading BAN COSMETICS WHICH USE ANIMAL TESTING (S 263)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would mandate that all grocery food stores offering digital coupons also offer identical paper coupons to shoppers. It also requires digital coupons to be automatically applied to the purchases of any consumer over the age of 65, or any consumer who asks about available digital coupons. Violators would be fined $2,500 for the first offense and $5,000 fine for each subsequent offense.
Continue reading DIGITAL GROCERY COUPONS (H 470)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would exempt flavored and menthol hookah tobacco from the 2019 law that prohibits the sale of any flavored or menthol tobacco products.
Continue reading FLAVORED HOOKAH TOBACCO PRODUCTS (S 270)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would prohibit municipal Boards of Health from banning the sale of any legal consumer product by authorized retailers without authorization of the local town meeting or city council.
Continue reading PROHIBIT HEALTH BOARDS FROM UNILATERALLY BANNING THE SALE OF LEGAL PRODUCTS (H 371)
By Bob Katzen
A bill heard by the Judiciary Committee would create a legal assumption about whether there has been smoking in a non-smoking apartment. The assumption relies on the fact that there is no legitimate reason why a renter should take down, unplug or cover their smoke detectors. If a renter does this, they will be assumed to have been smoking. Continue reading SMOKING IN NON-SMOKING APARTMENTS (S 1137)
By Bob Katzen
The Transportation Committee held a hearing on legislation that would establish a special commission to study the feasibility of setting time limits for handicapped parking placard use in metered spots. The commission would include legislators, state officials and appointees of the governor, who would be tasked with gathering input from experts and the public. Its purpose is to explore potential benefits, impacts and options such as reduced or standardized fees after time limits expire.
Continue reading HANDICAPPED PARKING SPACE (H 3613)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-0, approved an amendment that would reinstate the requirement that the Healey Administration submit a biweekly report on the cost and occupancy of the emergency assistance family shelter system. The previous requirement of reports lapsed at the end of fiscal year 2025.
Continue reading REQUIRE REPORT ON THE EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FAMILY SHELTER SYSTEM (S 2655)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-0, approved an amendment that would reinstate the requirement that the Healey Administration submit a biweekly report on the cost and occupancy of the emergency assistance family shelter system. The previous requirement of reports lapsed at the end of fiscal year 2025.
Continue reading REQUIRE REPORT ON THE EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE FAMILY SHELTER SYSTEM (S 2655)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved a $2.3 billion supplemental budget to close out the books on state government for fiscal year 2025. The actual cost to the state will be $795 million after revenue from federal reimbursements has been sent to the state. The House has approved a different version of the supplemental budget and a House-Senate conference committee will eventually hammer out a compromise version.
Continue reading $2.3 BILLION FISCAL 2025 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (S 2575)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-0, override Gov. Healey’s $1,530,735 veto reduction (from $39,250,384 to 37,719,649) in early intervention services.
Continue reading $1.5 MILLION FOR EARLY INTERVENTION SERVICES (H 4240)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-0, overrode Gov. Healey’s $2.5 million veto reduction (from 8,864,721 to $6,364,721) in programs for the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services.
Continue reading $2.5 MILLION FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE (H 4240)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-0, overrode Gov. Healey’s $300,000 veto reduction (from 8,864,721 to 8,564,721) in programs for the blind.
Continue reading $300,000 FOR PROGRAMS FOR THE BLIND (H 4240)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-0, override Gov. Healey’s veto of the entire $1.5 million for the Commonwealth Sewer Rate Relief Fund which was established in 1993 to help reduce the rising costs of sewer services in the Bay State.
Continue reading $1.5 MILLION FOR SEWER RATE RELIEF (H 4240)
By Bob Katzen
The House 159-1, approved an amendment to ensure that DCF social workers have union representation on the state’s child fatality review team.
Continue reading UNION REPRESENTATION (H 4645)
By Bob Katzen
The House 159-1, approved and sent to the Senate a proposal that supporters say would strengthen oversight, transparency and accountability within the state’s child welfare system.
Continue reading ENHANCE CHILD WELFARE PROTECTIONS (H 4645)
By Bob Katzen
The House 160-0, approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would expand the current law which punishes anyone who commits assault and battery against a public employee.
Continue reading PROTECT PUBLIC TRANSIT WORKERS FROM ASSAULT AND BATTERY (H 1877)
Crime Log September 30 to October 13, 2025
Assault
25061340: On 10/2/25 at approximately 7:59 AM, Somerville Police responded to Broadway & Garrison for an assault. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the victim who stated she was approached by a male party who proceeded to punch her in the face.
Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log
October 21st 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online October 21st 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading October 21st 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Yard Sale Sat October 25th at 34 Putnam Street from 10am to 3pm Vintage, Avon Christmas Decorations, and gifts Mens New Shirts Household items, women’s tote bags and other various items! Continue reading Yard Sale Somerville
Obituary
Marie (Pierre) Calixte – Of Cambridge, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, October 18, 2025. She was 90 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marie (Pierre) Calixte
Obituary
Grace Antoine – Of Malden, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on September 26, 2025. She was 57 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Grace Antoine
Obituary
Pamela L. (Hill) Hansen-Of Somerville, formerly of Idaho, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Pamela L. (Hill) Hansen
Obituary
Mr. James A. O’Connell, of Medford, passed away following a long and hard fought battle against Alzheimer’s Disease on October 14, 2025, he was 94.
Complete obituary to be posted.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James A. O’Connell
SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is expanding access to free vaccination clinics to help residents stay healthy through the fall and winter. They are also sharing updated flu and COVID-19 vaccine guidance for the 2025–26 season. Clinics will be held throughout the city from October 2025 through April 2026. Continue reading Somerville Expands Free Vaccine Clinics, Shares Updated Flu & COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require all election ballots to be uniform in size.
“[My bill] requires all ballots be uniform in size, material and content for all voters, whether marked by hand or using a ballot-marking device,” said sponsor Rep. Sean Garballey (D-Arlington). Continue reading REQUIRE UNIFORM BALLOTS (H 832)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would prohibit employers from obtaining the credit reports of existing or potential employees except in certain circumstances including hiring for a position that requires national security clearance; a position for which a person is required by federal or state law to obtain a consumer report; and some executive or managerial positions at a financial institution.
Continue reading BAN EMPLOYERS FROM ASKING FOR CREDIT REPORTS (H 4450)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require insurance companies that provide homeowners insurance to include insurance for heating oil releases to their customers. The measure also raises the required minimum coverage provided.
Continue reading MUST PROVIDE CUSTOMERS INSURANCE FOR HEATING OIL SPILLS (H 1302)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require that when candidates for Governor’s Council are listed on a voter ballot, the office they are seeking be listed as Governor’s Council. Under current law, the listing says simply “Council.”
Continue reading GOVERNOR’S COUNCILOR (H 805)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require that early voting and absentee ballots be identical to a regular ballot that voters use on Election Day.
Continue reading ABSENTEE BALLOTS (H 830)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would allow cities and towns to require the installation of an automatic sprinkler system in any building with more than four units, which “undergoes a major alteration or modification and is occupied in whole or in part for residential purposes” including lodging houses, boarding houses, fraternity houses, dormitories, apartments, townhouses, condominiums, hotels, motels and group residences. Continue reading REQUIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS (H 2644)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require that any candidates for appointment to the position of Fire Chief, Fire Commissioner or head of a fire department in any city or town, must have been a uniformed member of the Massachusetts firefighting force of a Massachusetts Fire Department for a minimum of five years. Continue reading FIRE CHIEF MUST BE A FORMER FIREFIGHTER (H 2646)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would require motorists to slow down if they are approaching a stationary utility truck or a stopped vehicle with flashing lights on the shoulder of a road or breakdown lane of a highway. Continue reading EXPAND THE “MOVE OVER” LAW (S 2653)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a proposal that would require manufacturers of menstrual health products to clearly disclose and display a list of ingredients. The ingredients would have to be easily accessible on both retail packages and manufacturers’ websites.
Continue reading COMPANIES MUST DISCLOSED INGREDIENTS OF MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS (S 1483)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would require all prisons, homeless shelters and public elementary and secondary schools to maintain free menstrual products, including sanitary napkins, tampons and underwear liners in private and public restrooms; and to make them available in a “convenient manner that does not stigmatize any persons seeking the products.”
Continue reading MAKE MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS MORE AVAILABLE AT NO COST (S 2640)
By Bob Katzen
House 141-14, approved and sent to the Senate a $2.25 billion fiscal 2025 supplemental budget designed to close out the books on fiscal year 2025. Continue reading $2.25 BILLION FISCAL 2025 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 4601)
One candle glowing in a dark room
Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, the Somerville Commission for Women, RESPOND, Inc., and the Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) invite residents to attend the City’s annual Domestic Violence Vigil on Tuesday, October 28, at Somernova (19 Properzi Way) at 6 p.m.
Continue reading Somerville to Honor Victims of Domestic Violence at Annual Vigil on October 28
Somerville to host two drop-off sites for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
SOMERVILLE— Keeping unused or expired medications at home can be unsafe for children, pets, and adults. Continue reading Safely Dispose of Old Medications at Somerville’s Take Back Events on 10/25
A Report by Joe Viglione
*Please note, Viglione does radio publicity for David Yarde and some consulting work.
The Karen Read case opened eyes, and came long after David Yarde was wrongfully imprisoned. But it is the Read case which has reactivated interest in Mr.Yarde’s story.
Continue reading The David Yarde Story RudeboiiidaArtist and His Quest for Freedom
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Have you seen? The disaster on Broadway. I can’t even park my car anywhere on Broadway or top of the side streets.. It was supposed to be starting up 5AM-5PM. They changed it to start at 7PM. I have nowhere to park my car and have to move it at 8AM to go nowhere. You can’t make this idiocy up. The sign said until Saturday. You can’t even sleep with all the trucks backing up and noise. They should go dig up the Mayor’s street at her house.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville Is Getting Worst Everyday
October 14th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition OnlineOctober 14th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (5)
Continue reading October 14th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
The First Congregational Church in Melrose, United Church of Christ, will host its Third Annual Antique Show & Sale on Saturday October 25, 2025 from 10am-2pm at 121 West Foster Street in Melrose, MA. Continue reading Melrose Antique Show & Sale Returns!
SOMERVILLE– On Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the City of Somerville will hold its Municipal Election. Offices on the ballot include Mayor, Councilor At Large, Ward Councilors, and School Committee members. Local ballot questions also include a question asking Continue reading Make Your Voting Plan:Somerville Municipal Election on 11/4
By Bob Katzen
“The Trump Administration’s portrayal of Portland as ‘war ravaged’ and ‘under attack’ is inaccurate and inflammatory. By sending in the National Guard, the President is provoking disorder where it otherwise does not exist. These actions attempt to instill fear in our communities and silence dissent. I stand firmly with Oregon in resisting this egregious abuse of power.”
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
A bill filed by Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northampton) would designate the second Monday in October, now known as Columbus Day, as Indigenous Peoples Day and recommend appropriate exercises in schools to acknowledge the history of genocide and discrimination against Indigenous people.
Continue reading RENAME COLUMBUS DAY (S 2113)
By Bob Katzen
Rep. Jim Hawkins (D-Attleboro) has filed a bill that would prohibit police and other law enforcement officers from wearing masks or personal disguises while interacting with the public in the performance of their duties. The measure was referred to the Judiciary Committee and the date for a public hearing on the proposal has not yet been set. Continue reading BAN MASK USE BY LAW ENFORCEMENT (HD 4886)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would prohibit discrimination against an employee based on their status as a victim of abusive behavior. The measure requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to ensure employees are able to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and address the situation, while remaining productive in the workplace.
Continue reading EMPLOYMENT PROTECTION FOR ABUSE VICTIMS (H 2143/S 1294)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to legislation that would allow any person, including students, parents and school personnel, to possess and use a topical sunscreen product without a physician’s note or prescription while on school property or at a school-related event or activity, to avoid overexposure to the sun.
Continue reading SUNSCREEN LOTION (H 600)
By Bob Katzen
The House 148-7, overrode Gov. Healey’s $700,000 veto reduction (from $6,200,000 million to $5,500,000 million) in funding for the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University in North Grafton.
Continue reading 700,000 FOR CUMMINGS SCHOOL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE AT TUFTS UNIVERSITY (H 4240)
By Bob Katzen
House 139-16, override Gov. Healey’s $1,530,735 veto reduction (from $39,250,384 to 37,719,649) in early intervention services.
Continue reading $1.5 MILLION FOR EARLY INTERVENTION SERVICES (H 4240)
By Bob Katzen
The House 147-8, overrode Gov. Healey’s $2.5 million veto reduction (from 8,864,721 to $6,364,721) in programs for the Bureau of Substance Addiction Services.
Continue reading $2.5 MILLION FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE (H 4240)
By Bob Katzen
The House 155-0, overrode Gov. Healey’s $300,000 veto reduction (from 8,864,721 to 8,564,721) in programs for the blind.
Continue reading $300,000 FOR PROGRAMS FOR THE BLIND (H 4240)
By Bob Katzen
The House 143-11, override Gov. Healey’s veto of the entire $1.5 million for the Commonwealth Sewer Rate Relief Fund which was established in 1993 to help reduce the rising costs of sewer services in the Bay State.
Continue reading $1.5 MILLION FOR SEWER RATE RELIEF (H 4240)
It’s about time!
Mayor Ballantyne and Chief Breen invite community members to celebrate the grand opening of the Assembly Square Fire Station (45 Middlesex Ave.) on Saturday, October 18, at 10 a.m.
Continue reading Assembly Square Fire Station Opens
Obituary
Rosa Lee Mills – Of Medford, passed away at home on Sunday, October 5, 2025. She was 81 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rosa Lee Mills

Firefighter Henry Lima graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in Bridgewater on Friday, October 3. Chief Charles Breen attended the ceremony and presented Firefighter Lima with his assignment. Continue reading Somerville’s Newest Firefighter Henry Lima
“The benefits of the Food Insecurity Grant Program for Independent Restaurants are two-fold, strengthening our local restaurants and food-service supply chains while at the same time enhancing access to high-quality prepared meals and food products for those facing food insecurity in Massachusetts.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council invite community members to close Continue reading SomerStreets Closes Out 2025 Season with Spooky “Monster Mash”
SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Ward 3 City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen invite community members to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the reinstallation of the Vietnam and Korean Wars Memorials on Central Hill.
Continue reading Ribbon Cutting for Central Hill Veterans Vietnam & Korean Wars Memorial on 10/16
Tomorrow, Tuesday night October 7th on 95.9 WATD check out Gary Leavitt as he hosts former Boston Red Sox shortstop Rico Petrocelli, country singer Billy Gilman, and Mrs. Essex County Laurie Quintal Berns.
Continue reading Gary Leavitt Hosts Former Boston Red Sox shortstop Rico Petrocelli, country singer Billy Gilman, and Mrs. Essex County Laurie Quintal Berns.
By Bob Katzen
This bill would impose a 6.25 percent sales tax on digital advertising services that target users in Massachusetts, using tools like IP address or geolocation. The tax would only apply to companies that make more than $2.5 million a year from digital ads aimed at Bay State residents.
Continue reading SALES TAX ON DIGITAL ADVERTISING SERVICES (H 3208)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would exempt home security systems from the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax.
Continue reading EXEMPT RESIDENTIAL SECURITY SYSTEMS FROM THE SALES TAX (S 1982)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would broaden the definition of “smokeless tobacco,” which is subject to the tobacco excise tax, to include any product whether chewed, absorbed, dissolved or ingested.
Continue reading CLOSE THE NICOTINE LOOPHOLE (S 1949)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would hike the tax on the sale of cigarettes by $1 from $3.51 to $4.51 per pack.
Continue reading HIKE CIGARETTE TAX (S 2200)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would exempt animal medication prescribed by veterinarians from the 6.25 percent sales tax.
Continue reading SALES TAX EXMPTION FOR PRESCRIPTIONS FOR ANIMALS (H 3024)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would exempt communities within a 10-mile border of New Hampshire from the Bay State’s 6.25 percent sales tax.
Continue reading EXEMPT NEW HAMPSHIRE BORDER COMMUNITIES FROM THE SALES TAX (H 3195)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would impose the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax on the purchase of Lottery tickets. Currently Lottery tickets are exempt from the sales tax. Continue reading TAX LOTTERY TICKETS (H 3071)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would exempt from the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax a wide array of baby and infant supplies including breast pumps, cribs, strollers, bottles and wipes. The measure also exempts apparel for children aged 5 and under including clothing, shoes, diapers and other accessories.
Continue reading EXEMPT BABY SUPPLIES FROM THE SALES TAX (H 3268)
Obituary
Complete obituary to be published.
Visiting Hours will be held in the George L. Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville on Friday morning, October 10th from 9AM – 11AM followed by a Funeral Mass celebrated in St. Benedict Church, Somerville at 11:30AM. Relatives and friends invited to attend. Interment will be private. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James J. Scimemi
Obituary
Marguerite Theresa (Green) Burns, originally of Medford, passed away on September 30, 2025, following a valiant battle with cancer. She passed away surrounded by family.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marguerite Theresa Burns
Ordinance updates effective October 1
SOMERVILLE—Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is sharing that starting today, October 1, 2025, updates to the City of Somerville’s Condominium Conversion Ordinance take effect. These updates are part of the City’s continued efforts to prevent residential displacement and enact stronger protections for tenants. Continue reading Somerville Strengthens Protections for Tenants in Updated Condo Conversion Ordinance
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
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· Color Information
· Fraud Protection Program
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COPYRIGHT
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APPLICABLE LAW
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PRICING INFORMATION
All pricing on Mass Publishing Inc. is in US dollars unless specifically indicated otherwise. Errors and omission excepted.
FRAUD PROTECTION PROGRAM
As part of our order processing procedures, we screen all received orders for fraud or other types of unauthorized or illegal activity. We reserve the right to refuse to process any order due to suspected fraud or unauthorized or illegal activity. If such is the case, we may reject your order or our Customer Service department may call you at the phone number you provided to confirm your order. We also reserve the right to cancel any account or refuse to ship to certain addresses due to suspected fraud or unauthorized or illegal activity. We take these measures to protect our customers as well as ourselves from fraud or other unauthorized or illegal activity.
COMMENTS, FEEDBACK AND OTHER SUBMISSIONS
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If you have any questions about these Terms and Conditions, or the content or practices of our website, you can contact Mass Publishing Inc. directly at: Wmtauro@aol.com
WHAT OUR PRIVACY POLICY COVERS
· What our Privacy Policy Covers
· What Personal Information is Collected
· How We Protect Your Information
· How We Use Your Personal Information
· Who Views Your Personal Information
· Making a Purchase
· Children Under 13
· Website Cookies
· Questions About This Policy
WHAT OUR PRIVACY POLICY COVERS
Thank you for visiting our site. We are committed to protecting your privacy.
This Privacy Policy covers any personal information that we obtain from you when you use services on our site. This policy does not cover the practices of companies that we do not own or control, or the actions of people that we do not employ or manage.
Our Privacy Policy may change in the future. We invite you to check back periodically to see if we have made any changes.
By using this site, you agree to the terms of our policy. For more information about the terms of use for this site, please visit our legal page.
WHAT PERSONAL INFORMATION IS COLLECTED
Depending on how you use our site, we may ask you to share personal information with us. Whether you choose to give us this information is completely up to you, but keep in mind that if you withhold information, you may not be able to use some of our services.
We will ask you for information, including some personal information, when you Make a purchase. When you buy something on this site, you have to supply a billing address, phone number, shipping address, and credit card information.
HOW WE PROTECT YOUR INFORMATION
We realize that our customers trust us to protect their personal information. We take that task seriously. We never display your full credit card number once it has been entered. We urge you to protect your own privacy. We recommend that you do not share your password with anyone or share your password in an unsolicited phone call or e-mail.
Unfortunately, despite all of our efforts, there is always a risk that third parties may unlawfully intercept transmissions. This reality is true of all Internet use. As a result, we cannot ensure the security of any information you transmit, and you transmit all information at your own risk.
HOW WE USE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
We collect personal information primarily to make our services more rewarding for you to use. We usually use this information for internal purposes, such as studying our customers' preferences. We may also use your information to contact you for account and promotional purposes.
WHO VIEWS YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
We may share your personal information with companies that perform services for us, such as delivering packages, sending postal mail and e-mails, processing credit card payments, investigating fraudulent activity, and providing customer service. They have access to personal information needed to perform their functions, but may not disclose your personally identifiable information for other purposes. Some personal information is stored on servers owned by other companies. Only our personel and our websites have the right to access this information. We do not currently sell or license personal information and have no plans to do so. Your personal information will only be used by this site.
At this time, we do not share any personal information with marketing affiliates. It is unlikely that this policy will change in the future. If we do decide to share information with our affiliates, we will post a notice in this Privacy Policy.
MAKING A PURCHASE
When you buy something on this site, you have to supply a billing address, phone number, shipping address, and credit card information. By making a purchase, you become a registered user. You can choose to store information needed to make a purchase, such as your shipping and billing addresses in the My Account — Profile page. Your credit card information is NEVER stored in our databases and is used only for the duration of the purchase transaction. This data is always transmitted securely to the merchant bank and immediately erased from our systems.
CHILDREN UNDER 13
Our site is not designed for children. We do not wish to collect personal information from children under 13. This policy is designed to protect children. Federal law requires us to take special steps to safeguard children's privacy. If you register with us and we discover that you are under 13, we will delete your registration. We will send you a message if we do this. If you are under 13 and want to make a purchase, please ask a parent to place the order for you.
WEBSITE COOKIES
We collect some anonymous information about how you use the site by setting and accessing cookies on your computer. These cookies track information such as how often you visit our web site, what pages you view, and where you go after you leave the site. The cookies track your computer, not you. They are not connected to any personal information about you.
QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS POLICY
If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy, or the content or practices of our website, you can contact us directly at:
Mass Publishing Inc. wmtauro@aol.com
Terms & Conditions/ Cancellation/return policy:If unsatisfied with subscription
7 day money back cancellation return policy on monthly subscriptions.
30 day money back cancellation return policy on yearly subscriptions.
Contact Email: Somervillenewsweekly@yahoo.com
