Overnight on Wednesday, companies operated at a 3rd Alarm Fire at 71 Thurston Street. This proved to be another challenging fire as the original fire building was under construction and fully involved in fire upon arrival, extending to the two neighboring houses. Group 1 was on duty. Photos courtesy of Boston 492 Fire Photos.
Continue reading Somerville Firefighters Local 76 News Updates →

August 19th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition OnlineAugust 19th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (2)

By William Tauro

Manchester-by-the-Sea, a picturesque coastal town in Massachusetts, is embracing cutting-edge technology to manage parking at its popular beaches. New automated parking camera devices are now in use, designed to enforce the town’s two-hour parking limit with precision.
Continue reading New Parking Camera Devices Enforce Two-Hour Limits at Manchester-by-the-Sea Beaches May Be Coming To Your City of Town Soon →

Obituary

MaryLou Priscilla (Stancato) Paduano – Of Haverhill, formerly of Medford, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 8, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. She was 91 years old. Leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth and devotion to her family. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering MaryLou Priscilla (Stancato) Paduano →

Obituary
David J. Desmond, a life long Somerville resident, passed away at home on August 9, 2025, he was just 45 years young. David was born in Boston the cherished son of Mary Lou Johnson of Arlington and the dear brother of the late Daniel R. Johnson, who passed away in March of last year.

Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering David J. Desmond →

At approximately 8:34 AM Monday, SPD 911 received a call for a possible stabbing at the MBTA Davis Sq Red line stop. Upon arrival, responding Officers discovered one male suffering from an apparent stab wound. Continue reading Early Morning Stabbing In Davis Square Somerville →

By Bob Katzen

“Massachusetts has over 25,000 culverts, most of which are undersized. By replacing these outdated culverts with larger, safer structures, we can better prepare our communities for severe weather. Investing in these projects now will save our cities and towns money on disaster recovery in the future.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

The Healey Administration announced a package of $46 million for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to support the buildout of EV chargers across Massachusetts. Supporters said that the funding will help address gaps identified by the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Coordinating Council, including the need for more chargers along secondary corridors and to support medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Continue reading $46 MILION FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING →

By Bob Katzen

Secretary of State Bill Galvin’s Citizen Information Service has compiled information about new financial aid programs available to Massachusetts students at public colleges and universities. Continue reading LOWER COST OPTIONS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS →

By Bob Katzen

The Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery will hold a hearing on September 15 on legislation that would require government entities to supply first responders with Narcan, also known by its generic name naloxone, or another opioid antagonist which is used as an emergency treatment used for the complete or partial reversal of an opioid overdose. Continue reading FIRST RESPONDERS MUST HAVE NARCAN AVAILABLE (S 1410) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would allow local licensing authorities to issue temporary licenses to charities in order for the charities to accept donations of wine, beer and alcohol for their charitable events.
Continue reading ALCOHOL DONATIONS FOR CHARITIES (H 442) →

By Bob Katzen

A new law that took effect on August 1 requires landlords, instead of renters, to cover the cost of broker fees unless a renter is the one to hire the broker first. The law was part of the $60.9 billion fiscal 2026 that was signed by Gov. Maura Healey in July. Continue reading LANDLORD MUST PAY REAL ESTATE BROKER’S FEE →

On Friday, two of our patrol officers officially stepped into leadership roles as they were promoted to the rank of sergeant. Please join us in congratulating Sergeant Chris Kelly and Sergeant Rich Iozza! Continue reading Medford Police Department News Updates →

2900-5700 housing units, up to $17M in annual tax revenue among potential benefits

Plan sets vision for housing, job, revenue, and public space improvements through sustainable growth

SOMERVILLE, MA – By unanimous vote, the Somerville Planning Board at their July meeting adopted the Ballantyne Administration’s Assembly Square Neighborhood Plan, marking a significant milestone in the City’s efforts to guide sustainable development Continue reading Somerville Planning Board Adopts Ballantyne Administration’s Transformative Assembly Square Neighborhood Plan →

SOMERVILLE — The City of Somerville’s Department of Public Space and Urban Forestry (PSUF) is sharing
updates to its Tree Preservation Ordinance, reinforcing the City’s commitment to protecting trees on both public and private land. The
Continue reading Ballantyne Administration Strengthens Tree Preservation Ordinance to Better Protect Urban Canopy →

SOMERVILLE– You can help. On Sunday, August 10, 18 Somerville residents including three children, as well as pets, were displaced by a fire on Powderhouse Boulevard that left nine apartments at Clarendon Hill Housing uninhabitable. Continue reading Mayor and Somerville Homeless Coalition Activate Emergency Fund for Somerville Fire Victims; Call for Community Donations →

SOMERVILLE, MA– On Friday, July 25, Somerville’s own Bonny Carroll was awarded a special citation from
the Massachusetts House of Representatives for her work as a dedicated leader in tobacco prevention and longtime champion for youth and families in Somerville.
Continue reading City of Somerville Staff Member Honored by Massachusetts House of Representatives for Decades of Service →

Crosswalk sign initiative brings more accessible street navigation Somerville residents

SOMERVILLE— Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is pleased to announce that more accessible signage is coming
to streets around Somerville. As part of ongoing work to make Somerville’s streets safer and more accessible, the City will be installing new signage featuring braille and raised text at intersections around Somerville. A total of 200 new signs will be installed Continue reading Ballantyne Administration Brings Braille & Raised Text Street Signs to 200 Somerville Intersections →

SOMERVILLE – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Somerville Chief of Police Shumeane Benford have confirmed that Luis Carlos Ramos Teixeira, age 27, of Brockton has been charged with rape and indecent assault and battery on a person over fourteen. The defendant, a Lyft driver, is alleged to have sexually assaulted a female passenger over the weekend. Continue reading Lyft Driver Arrested in Somerville After Alleged Sexual Assault on Passenger →

Five new Somerville firefighters graduated from the Boston Fire Academy on Wednesday, August 13. Continue reading Somerville Fire Department News Updates →

At about 6:15 this past Wednesday morning Medford Fire received multiple calls from neighbors for a fire at 134 Fern Rd. Continue reading Medford Firefighters Local 1032 News Updates →

On Friday, August 8, seven firefighters graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in Stow and received their assignments from Chief Breen. The new firefighters are Christopher Carvalho, Steven Flythe, Jake Hardy, Todd Headley, Kerry Kahn, Gavin Tierney, and Matthew White.
Continue reading Somerville Fire Department News Updates →

August 12th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online Screenshot 2025-08-13 at 8.32.56 AM
Continue reading August 12th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

Obituary
Cheryl Ann (Cameron) Scully, passed away at her home in Somerville surrounded by the love of her family on August 1, 2025, at the age of 67. Born and raised in Somerville, Cheryl was one of six children born to Etta (Henderson) and Archibald Cameron. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Cheryl Ann (Cameron) Scully →

Obituary
Ellen D. (Murray) Conway – A lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. She was 85 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ellen D. (Murray) Conway →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council, in partnership with producer Yvette Wilks of Wilks Productions Consultancy, invite community members to the eleventh annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival on Saturday, August 23, (rain date: August 24), from 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. in Union Square Plaza. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Invites the Community to the Annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival in Union Square →

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Police have charged two juveniles, ages 16 & 17, for their alleged involvement in a shooting that occurred on July 22, 2025 in the area of 495 Grand Union Boulevard.
Continue reading Somerville Police Department Charges Two Juveniles in July 22 Shooting at Grand Union Blvd →

Earn $240 for the workday, 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

SOMERVILLE– The City of Somerville is seeking polling place workers and standby poll workers for the upcoming Preliminary Election on Tuesday, September 16. Many poll workers are needed to support operations and conduct a successful election. Continue reading Somerville Seeks Polling Place Workers for Preliminary Election Tuesday, September 16 →

The City of Somerville is planning to build a new PK-8 public school building, and the Construction Advisory Group (CAG), Mayor Ballantyne, and Somerville Public Schools want to hear from you.
Continue reading Somerville Community Invited to Take Survey on New PK-8 School Building Options →

“Here we go Again, But I Hear No Trumpets Blow Again.”SOS at the Medford City Council last Tuesday. Sad for all who hang on to homes with rising taxes and gaining nothing from long, tedious,nonCity related bases. I usually try and offer an idea or two, but went home.
Continue reading Here We Go Again Medford →

Recently Council President Zach Bears made a public statement to change the schedule and create a vision for the re-zoning changes in Medford. He started by praising the work the city council has conducted on the proposed re-zoning plan.
Continue reading Zoning In Medford – A RESET or an ELECTION DODGE →

At 11:05 p.m. on Sunday, August 10, the Somerville Fire Department was alerted to a fire at 268 Powderhouse Boulevard. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire in a second-floor apartment with multiple occupants reportedly trapped. A second alarm was called. Continue reading Somerville Fire Department News Updates →

We are investigating a hit and run that occurred on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at approximately 1:20am. A pedestrian was struck while in the crosswalk in front of Alexander’s (277 Main Street). The driver fled southbound on Main Street toward Somerville. The victim sustained serious injuries. Continue reading Hit & Run Investigation – Information Needed →

Medford Police, Medford Fire, and State DCR responded to two separate fires in the wooded area behind Medford High School; one on Friday, 8/8 around 3:30pm and another just after midnight today, 8/10. Continue reading Medford Police Department SEEKING INFORMATION ON POTENTIALLY SUSPICIOUS FIRES →

By Bob Katzen

“Our investments in public lands and outdoor recreation are paying off big. We are dedicated to promoting local economic growth through targeted grants for destination mountain biking and inclusive outdoor recreation events, which create more opportunities for communities to discover and enjoy the outdoors.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Attorney General Andrea Campbell announced that her office has reached a settlement with online grocery-delivery company Weee, resolving allegations that it violated Massachusetts employment laws pertaining to employee classification and earned sick time. As part of the settlement, Weee has agreed to pay over $865,000 in citations, including restitution for over 160 impacted workers and penalties.

Continue reading $865,000 SETTLEMENT FOR VIOLATING BAY STATE EMPLOYMENT LAWS →

By Bob Katzen

Another bill before the Education Committee would establish a 17-member task force to review and investigate indoor air quality in public school buildings that provide education for K-12 children. Continue reading INVESTIGATE AIR QUALITY IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS (S 351) →

By Bob Katzen

LA bill before the Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight would require Massachusetts to be on Daylight Savings Time all year, meaning people would no longer change the clocks in the spring and fall.
Continue reading MAKE DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME PERMANENT (S 2157) →

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would increase the amount of funds that a school district can stash away in a reserve account during good fiscal times to help alleviate the fiscal burden of paying for special education during difficult fiscal times. The measure would increase the amount allowed from 2 percent to 5 percent of the district’s annual budget.
Continue reading SPECIAL EDUCATION FUNDING (H 2302) →

By Bob Katzen

Sponsors of possible ballot questions for the November 2026 election faced their first deadline last week in the long process to get their proposed law on the ballot. Sponsors had until August 6 to submit their proposals and the signatures of ten citizens to Attorney General Andrea Campbell’s office. Continue reading POSSIBLE 2026 BALLOT QUESTIONS →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law the “Shield Act” which would prohibit state agencies, employees and law enforcement from cooperating with investigations by other states or the federal government, into reproductive or gender affirming health care that is legally protected in Massachusetts.

Continue reading REPRODUCTIVE AND TRANSGENDER CARE PROTECTIONS – THE SHIELD ACT (H 4271) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a $1.2 billion transportation bond bill that includes authorizing $300 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. Continue reading $300 MILLION FOR LOCAL ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 4307) →

By Bob Katzen
L
Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment to the current law, known as the MBTA Communities Act, which according to the state’s website, requires that an MBTA community “must have at least one zoning district of reasonable size in which multi-family housing is permitted as of right and meets other criteria including minimum gross density of 15 units per acre; and a location not more than 1/2 mile from a commuter rail station, subway station, ferry terminal or bus station. No age restrictions can be applied and the district must be suitable for families with children.”
Continue reading APPEAL MBTA COMMUNITIES ACT (S 3) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would increase funding for the Department of Mental Health (DMH) by $3.5 million (from $15.5 million to $19 million) to support diversion programs that offer treatment alternatives to incarceration for individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders. It also directs the DMH to update regulations to improve discharge protocols for patients leaving mental health and substance use facilities that are overseen by the state.
Continue reading 3.5 MILLION FOR DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH (S 3) →

House 150-6, Senate on a voice vote without a roll call, approved and Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a $259 million fiscal 2025 supplemental budget.
Continue reading 259 MILLION FISCAL 2025 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (S 2575) →

August 5th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online August 5th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading August 5th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

After 34 Years of service to the Citizens of Somerville, August 13th will be Captain Tom Gorman’s last shift with the Somerville Fire Department. Continue reading Somerville Fire Department’s Captain Tom Gorman Retires →

By Bob Katzen

“This funding round is about more than bricks and mortar, it’s about people. Whether it’s a formerly homeless individual in Boston, a senior in Topsfield or a working family in Easthampton, the homes we’re supporting will change lives. These projects exemplify the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s belief that everyone in Massachusetts deserves a safe, stable and affordable place to live.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Would prohibit the sale of energy drinks or other beverages that exceed a caffeine content of 71 milligrams per 12 ounce serving and contains taurine and glucuronolactone. Continue reading NO ENERGY DRINKS FOR PEOPLE UNDER 18 (H 1908) →

By Bob Katzen

Would prohibit any restaurant or retail stores from being liable for civil damages for any injury arising out of the condition of the food it donates to any individual. The measure only exempts the restaurant or stores if at the time of donation, the food is not misbranded and is not adulterated and has not been manufactured, processed, Continue reading LIABILITY FOR DONATIONS OF FOOD (S 1091) →

By Bob Katzen

Would create a registry of Massachusetts residents convicted of abusing animals and require the abusers to register. A first conviction of failure to register would be punishable by a $1,000 fine or ten days in prison. Subsequent convictions would result in a 5-year prison sentence.
Continue reading ANIMAL ABUSE REGISTRY (H 1764) →

By Bob Katzen

The Municipalities and Regional Government Committee held a hearing on legislation that would prohibit cities and town from imposing additional financial penalties on a person who does not pay their parking ticket by the due date.
Continue reading BAN LATE PAYMENT PENALTIES FOR PARKING TICKETS (H 2278) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 38-2, approved and sent to the House legislation that would ban student use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices during classes. The measure would require all public schools and districts in Massachusetts to implement, by the start of the 2026-2027 school year, policies for student use of these devices on school grounds and during school-sponsored activities. Continue reading BAN USE OF CELL PHONES IN SCHOOLS (S 2561) →

By Bob Katzen

House 158-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would mandate human trafficking training for all hotel, motel, lodging house or bed and breakfast establishment employees in the Bay State, from the front desk to housekeeping and food service, Continue reading MANDATE HUMAN TRAFFICKING TRAINING IN MASSACHUSETTS HOTELS (H 4360) →

By Bob Katzen

House 158-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would extend benefits for retired teachers who are later hired to work for the Massachusetts Executive Office of Education (EOE) or the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The bill would allow these employees to retain the status of “teacher” and remain in the Teachers’ Retirement System.
Continue reading TEACHERS’ RETIREMENT (H 4361) →

By Bob Katzen

House 156-0, Senate 39-0, approved and sent to Gov. Healey a $1.2 billion transportation bond bill that includes authorizing $300 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. Continue reading 300 MILLION FOR LOCAL ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 4307) →

By Bob Katzen

House 132-24, Senate 37-3, approved and sent the “Shield Act” to Gov. Maura Healey. The measure would prohibit state agencies, employees and law enforcement from cooperating with investigations by other states or the federal government, into reproductive or gender affirming health care that is legally protected in Massachusetts.
Continue reading REPRODUCTIVE AND TRANSGENDER CARE PROTECTIONS – THE SHIELD ACT (H 4271) →

SOMERVILLE–Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Mayor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) are pleased to announce the resale of one deed-restricted condominium to eligible, first-time homebuyer households at a below market price through the City’s Inclusionary Housing Program. This unit will be offered to households with a yearly gross income at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI). Continue reading Ballantyne Administration Sharing Homeownership Opportunity at 411 Norfolk Street →

SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council, in proud partnership with Circle Squared, are excited to present ‘24 Hours of Culture’, a celebration amplifying the diverse cultural heartbeat of the Somerville and Greater Boston on Saturday, August 16 (Rain date: August 17), at Union Square Plaza and Stone Park, from 4 to 10 p.m. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Inviting Community to ‘24 Hours of Culture’ on August 16 to Celebrate BIPOC Arts, Community, and Culture →

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is announcing the successful negotiation and signing of new collective bargaining agreements with the SEIU Local 3 Custodians and the Somerville Police Superior Officers Association (SPSOA). These agreements reflect the City’s ongoing commitment to fair compensation, organizational improvement, and public service excellence.
Continue reading Ballantyne Administration Reaches New Agreements with Somerville Police and Custodians Unions →

SOMERVILLE– On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, the City of Somerville will hold its City Preliminary Election, which will narrow the candidate pool before the Municipal Election on Tuesday, November 4.

The offices on the ballot for this election include: Continue reading Somerville Voting Information for City Preliminary Election →

Obituary
Mary (Leonard) Canty, of Somerville, passed away on August 1, 2025. She was blessed with 90 years of age. Born and raised in Reengaroga, Baltimore, County Cork, Ireland, she was one of twelve children born to Ellen (Driscoll) and Paddy Jack Leonard.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Mary (Leonard) Canty →

Daniel G. Hovanesian of Somerville, passed away on May 9, 2025 at the age of 78. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel G. Hovanesian →

Obituary
Regina A. (Bahan) Vigorito, of Medford, passed away on July 31, 2025, she was 87 years of age. Born and raised in Somerville, Regina was one of seven children born to Grace (Sullivan) and George E. Bahan. She was the beloved wife of the late Donald V.A. Vigorito. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Regina A. (Bahan) Vigorito →

Peter Trant– A lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away on Saturday, July 26,2025. He was 68 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Peter Trant →



Residential Breaking & Entering
25043403: On 7/23/25 at approximately 12:40 AM, Somerville Police responded to a residence on Perkins St for a past breaking and entering. Upon arrival, spoke with the victims who stated they observed a male party opening up their apartment window and attempting to enter. The male party then fled the area. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log →

By William Tauro

In an era of high-stakes legal battles, attorneys are polarizing: trusted allies offering help, or self-serving opportunists “full of money,” prioritizing gain over welfare? Do they empower clients or foster dependency to “sue you” repeatedly? As many say, “they’re all crooks.” This article draws from 2025 surveys, stats, and online talks to explore the duality. Continue reading Attorneys: Friends or Foes? Wealth, Assistance, or Self-Interest? →

July 29th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online July 29th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (2)
Continue reading July 29th 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

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

Otis street..
They started on the 14th but they dug this portion of sidewalk on the 17th .. no boards or anything to help anybody get from their front stoop onto the street nor to get in/out of driveways. Gas and water lines and coming out of the ground (not visible with spray paint) exposed as you see in the pictures. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:No boards or anything to help anybody get from their front stoop onto the street nor to get in/out of driveways →

Obituary
Bridget ( Moran) Travers, 75, of Somerville, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on July 27,2025.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bridget ( Moran) Travers →

Obituary
Mrs. Yvonne L. (Lamothe) Ross, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 21, 2025. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Yvonne passed into eternal life at the age of 88 after facing several health challenges with grace and resilience. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Yvonne L. (Lamothe) Ross →

Obituary
Bruce C. Hamel – Of Arlington, passed away suddenly on Saturday, July 19, 2025. He was 66 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bruce C. Hamel →

Obituary
Preston, Frances M. (Rull) – Age 103, of Medford, passed away peacefully on July 20. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Frances M. (Rull) Preston →

Obituary
Joanne H. (Murnane) Norton – A lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joanne H. (Murnane) Norton →

Obituary
Junichi Yamazaki – Of Somerville, passed away after a brief illness on Saturday, July 25, 2025 with his wife by his side. He was 75 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Junichi Yamazaki →

Obituary
Elaine Whalen – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on Friday, July 25, 2025. She was 80 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Elaine Whalen →

While you are all enjoying your summer, we thought that you might be interested in what is happening at the State House and Somerville City Hall.

Effective Aug 1, 2025, rental property owners must pick up, with a small few exceptions, the entire broker’s fee when they use a Licensed Real Estate Broker to rent their apartments. This was sneaked into the budget bill without our knowledge by the Governor and Somerville’s Legislative Delegation.
Continue reading Somerville Urgent: Rent Control hearings and more →

By Bob Katzen

Another bill before the Higher Education Committee would freeze the tuition and fees at all state colleges. Continue reading FREEZE COLLEGE TUITION AND FEES (H 1463) →

By Bob Katzen

Legislation heard by the Higher Education Committee would allow children 18 or older who are being raised by their grandparents or other relatives, except parents, to have their tuition and fees waived if attending a state college.
Continue reading FREE PUBLIC COLLEGE TUITION (H 1428) →

By Bob Katzen

Another proposal before the Public Health Committee would eventually end the sale of all nicotine and tobacco products in the Bay State. The proposal will not take away the right to purchase nicotine and tobacco products from anyone who is already legally able to do so. Instead, the measure would prohibit people under 21 who are not currently old enough to legally purchase nicotine and tobacco products, to ever be lawfully able to purchase these products in Massachusetts.
Continue reading BAN NICOTINE AND TOBACCO (S 1568) →

By Bob Katzen

The Public Health Committee held a hearing on a measure that would prohibit the online sale of any tobacco products by requiring any sale of tobacco to be done in-person with both the buyer and seller physically present at the time and location of the purchase. The buyer’s age would have to be verified at the time of purchase through a valid government-issued photo ID. Continue reading PROHIBIT ONLINE TOBACCO SALES (H 2482) →

By Bob Katzen

ByAaron Singer, the producer and director of “Shadows on the Hill,” an upcoming documentary that he says asks why common-sense bills don’t pass the Massachusetts Legislature, announced the unveiling of his GoFundMe website to raise money for the production. Continue reading DOCUMENTARY “SHADOWS ON THE HILL” CREATES GOFUNDME PAGE →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment that would create a “Yellow Envelope Program,” that would give drivers 62 and older, who have a chronic illness, the option to be given a special yellow envelope that holds a recent photograph, the driver’s name, emergency contact information, physicians’ names and contact information, medical conditions, recent surgeries, allergies, medications and any other information the Registrar decides is relevant information to emergency responders in the case of emergency.
Continue reading YELLOW ENVELOPE PROGRAM (S 2565) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would require all police officers in Massachusetts to complete training every five years on the Blue Envelope Program. Continue reading TRAIN POLICE OFFICERS ON THE BLUE ENVELOPE PROGRAM (S 2565) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill designed to improve interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder during traffic stops. The measure, dubbed the “Blue Envelope Bill” would create a program giving people with the disorder the option to be given a special blue envelope that holds the person’s driver’s license, vehicle registration and insurance cards. Continue reading AUTISM AND POLICE STOPS (S 2565) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 40-0, approved and sent to the House legislation that would abolish some archaic laws that are still on the books in Massachusetts. These laws include prohibiting adultery, sodomy, blasphemy, “common nightwalking” and being a vagabond.
Continue reading REPEAL ARCHAIC LAWS (S 2564) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 40-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would modernize and remove archaic language in state laws to reflect the evolution of terminology relating to persons with disabilities.

Continue reading CHANGE ARCHAIC LANGUAGE REFERRING TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (S 2563) →

Your thoughts on how much of this will be used on wasteful spending before it reaches where it’s originally supposed to go?

By Bob Katzen

House 157-0, approved and sent to the Senate a $1.2 billion transportation bond bill that includes authorizing $300 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state — a 50 percent increase over last year’s funding. The measure provides that $200 million be distributed to all cities and towns based on the standard Chapter 90 Program distribution formula while $100 million would be distributed to all municipalities based solely on road mileage.
Continue reading $300 MILLION FOR LOCAL ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 4307) →

🎣🐟 The Medford Police Department and Medford Recreation are teaming up to bring back the Wright’s Pond Junior Fishing Derby on Monday, August 25, 2025!

Families are invited to spend the morning fishing, followed by food and fun at the bathhouse — including popcorn, freeze pops, hot dogs, and more! 🌭🍧

📍 Location: Wright’s Pond
🕣 Check-In: 8:30–9:00 AM
🎣 Fishing: 9:00–11:00 AM
🍴 Food: 11:00 AM–12:00 PM

✅ FREE event – tackle and food provided!

🎣 Please bring your own fishing rod if you have one. Limited rods will be available, and you must sign up if you need one. We’ll maintain a waitlist and work with local vendors to provide more if needed.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 This is a family-friendly event!
Children 16 & under must have adult supervision.
MA Freshwater Fishing Licenses are required for guardians and juniors ages 15+. (Free for ages 15–17.) Continue reading Medford Fishing Derby →



Shots Fired
25043372: On 7/22/25 at approximately 9:30 PM, Somerville Police responded to Grand Union Blvd in Assembly Row for a report of shots fired. Officers spoke with a male party who stated his vehicle was struck by multiple rounds of gunfire. Numerous shell casings were recovered. No injuries were reported.

Shots Fired
25042069: On 7/18/25 at approximately 12:28 AM, Somerville Police responded to 40 River Rd for a report of multiple shots fired and a vehicle fleeing the area. On scene, officers recovered 34 shell casings consisting of three different calibers. No injuries were reported. Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log →

By William Tauro

Medford Police officers and dispatchers on Wednesday morning, Dispatcher AnnMarie Giordano was recognized by Dispatch Supervisor Mike Salvi for her outstanding response. Continue reading Medford Dispatcher Recognized For Outstanding Response →

By William Tauro

Hunter Biden, the son of former President Joe Biden, unleashed a verbal firestorm in a recent Capitol Hill interview, taking aim at Democrats, Donald Trump, and anyone he sees as undermining his father’s legacy. Reported by Fox News’ Aishah Hasnie, the expletive-laden rant saw Hunter slamming high-profile Democrats like George Clooney and James Carville, while dismissing Trump’s taunts. Continue reading Hunter Biden’s Fiery Capitol Hill Interview: A Desperate Defense or a Reckoning? →

By William Tauro

The City of Somerville has a dirty little secret, and it’s not just the unreported shootings or the string of crimes that seem to vanish from public view. City Hall, led by the mayor and city councilors, appears to be playing a dangerous game of smoke and mirrors. Why? To protect Somerville’s bond rating and keep property values sky-high. They want you to believe Somerville is the modern-day Mayberry RFD—a quaint, crime-free paradise. But the reality on our streets tells a different story. Continue reading Somerville’s Hidden Truth: Why City Hall Stays Silent on Crime →

By William Tauro

Let’s talk about what’s really happening in Somerville. The folks up at City Hall, from the mayor to the city councilors, keep insisting that our city is a crime-free utopia. No crime in Somerville? Please. Tell that to the residents who heard gunshots ringing out at Assembly Row last night around 10 PM, right in the middle of a busy shopping area. Tell that to the employees at CVS, staring at their shot-out windows, wondering what’s next. A large police presence swarmed the scene, and for good reason—bullets were flying while families were out shopping. Continue reading Somerville’s Leadership Needs to Face the Facts on Crime →

Thank you for participating in this short survey. We’re gathering opinions on a warning posted this morning on the Somerville community Facebook page about ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents at Highland Ave and Walnut St. Your responses will help understand community views on public warnings versus federal enforcement.

1. Have you seen the ICE warning posted this morning on the Somerville community Facebook page about activity at Highland Ave and Walnut St?
• Yes
• No
• Unsure Continue reading Survey: Public Opinion on ICE Agent Warnings in Somerville and Surrounding Areas →

Somerville firefighters responded to a building fire at 257 Highland Ave. at 6:39 a.m. on Tuesday, July 22. The fire involved a third-floor rear porch and spread to the roof above. The building contains multiple apartments on the second and third floors and commercial space on the first floor. All occupants were able to safely exit the building, and one occupant helped to contain the fire using a garden hose prior to SFD’s arrival. One firefighter suffered a minor knee injury.
Continue reading Somerville Fire Department News Updates →

July 22nd 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online July 22nd 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading July 22nd 2025 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online →

By William Tauro

Folks, let’s cut right to the chase—today’s press conference by Governor Maura Healey in Fall River was nothing short of a day late and a dollar short. On July 22, 2025, just over a week after the heartbreaking fire at Gabriel House assisted living facility claimed 10 lives and hospitalized dozens more, the Governor finally stepped up to announce $1.2 million in state funding to help the city beef up its fire department. Continue reading Too Little, Too Late: Governor Healey’s Reactive Response to the Fall River Fire Tragedy →



By William Tauro

Disgraced Law Enforcement Figures: Michael Proctor and Brian Higgins as Symbols of Systemic Failures
In the high-profile Karen Read murder case, two law enforcement officials—former Massachusetts State Police Detective Michael Proctor and ATF Agent Brian Higgins—have become focal points of public outrage, embodying what many see as profound letdowns in the American justice system. Proctor, the lead investigator, was fired in March 2025 following revelations of misconduct, while Higgins, a federal agent and key witness, faces accusations of bias, evidence tampering, and abuse of power. Continue reading Disgraced Law Enforcement At It’s Best →

Two of Somerville’s newest fire recruits graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in Bridgewater on Friday, July 18.
Continue reading Somerville Gets Two New Firefighters →

By William Tauro

Somerville’s first cannabis dispensary, Revolutionary Clinics (often abbreviated as RevClinics), located at 67 Broadway across from Vinny’s Superette, has permanently closed its doors as of July 7, 2025. The closure marks the end for what was a trailblazing spot in the city’s recreational and medical marijuana scene, having opened in 2018 as Massachusetts’ adult-use market took off. Customers have reported the shop being shuttered for about two weeks, aligning with the official shutdown date, prompting questions and speculation among locals about what led to this sudden end.  Continue reading Revolutionary Clinics Shuts Down Somerville Dispensary: End of an Era for Local Cannabis Pioneer →

Obituary
Valente, Salvatore (92), of Somerville, MA passed away surrounded by his entire family on July 14, 2025. He was born on April 28, 1933 in Gaeta, Italy to Damiano and Annina (Macero) Valente.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Salvatore Valente →

Obituary
Joseph “Joey” Byrne, 73, of Somerville, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025. Born on November 4, 1951, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Joey lived a life defined by love for family, dedication to his work, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone he met. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Joseph “Joey” Byrne →

Obituary
Lillian J. DiFraia-Alves, of Wellesley; and a former longtime Somerville resident, passed away suddenly at home on July 14, 2025, she was 66. Born in Boston and raised in Somerville, Lillian was the cherished daughter of the late Lillian J. (Ivester) and Ralph DiFraia. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lillian J. DiFraia-Alves →

Obituary
Marcia M. Booth – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 18, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 79 years young. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marcia M. Booth →

Click on link below to see video:
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By William Tauro

Somerville, MA – In a bizarre turn of events, City Councilor Willie Burnley Jr., who is currently campaigning for mayor, has been accused of trespassing at Assembly Row, a mixed-use development in Somerville. According to an eyewitness account, Burnley was allegedly caught breaking and entering into a private residence at 333 Great River Road early on a Sunday morning by knocking on the resident’s apartment door and opening it. The trespassing was caught on video.
Continue reading Somerville City Councilman Faces Trespassing Allegations Amid Mayoral Bid Caught On Video →

Residential Breaking & Entering
25040107: On 7/10/25 at approximately 11:06 PM, Somerville Police responded to a residence on Grove St for report of a past breaking and entering. Upon arrival, officer spoke with the victim who stated she left her home and when she returned, noticed the back door ajar and items in the bathroom were displaced. The victim also reported cash was stolen.
Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log →

Please take part in this short five question survey regarding:

By William Tauro

A chilling roster of terrorists who studied at U.S. universities underscores ongoing debates about national security and higher education policies. As President Trump escalates actions against Harvard University— including a May 2025 ban on enrolling international students and freezing over $2 billion in federal grants—these cases highlight potential vulnerabilities in student visa and admission processes. Continue reading U.S. Campuses and Hidden Threats: Terrorists with American Educations Fuel Trump’s Harvard Crackdown:Short Five Question Survey →

By Judy Locchi Jacobs

A neighbor and I were talking about the condition of the sidewalk trees in our neighborhood in early June. She pointed out black spots on the foliage scattered on our street and sidewalks. I was aware that we have a city arborist and tried to reach the arborist without success. So I contacted Councilman Matt McLaughlin from Ward 1. Over the years, we had become acquainted and I always find Matt to be responsive and helpful. So he reached out to the city arborist to let him know what the issue was with our sidewalk trees. Continue reading City of Somerville Side Walk Trees—Can They Be Saved? →

Represented by Lawyers for Civil Rights, the proceeding was held July 17, 2025 on a motion for a preliminary preliminary injunction asking a federal court to block the Trump Administration’s attempts to strip sanctuary cities of federal funding because they refuse to be coerced into participating in the Administration’s mass deportation efforts. Continue reading UPDATE ON BALLANTYNE’S SUIT AGAINST TRUMP, ET AL. Hearing held on preliminary injunction over federal funding →

By Bob Katzen

“Early education and care programs play a vital role in supporting the foundation for infant and child mental health that will serve our students throughout their lives. We are pleased to provide this funding so that our early educators can access the resources they need to help young children learn about and manage their feelings, supporting healthy social and emotional development in their classroom and beyond.”
Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill →

By Bob Katzen

Another measure before the Public Health Committee would prohibit any new for-profit acute-care hospitals from being established or licensed in the Bay State. Continue reading BAN NEW FOR-PROFIT HOSPITALS (S 1526) →

By Bob Katzen

The Public Health Committee held a hearing on a measure that would prohibit smoking in any motor vehicle in which there is a child who is required to be in a child passenger restraint. Under Massachusetts law, children must use a restraint until they are at least eight years old or at least 57 inches tall. The measure imposes a $100 fine on drivers who violate the smoking ban.
Continue reading BAN SMOKING IN CARS WITH CHILDREN (H 2443) →

William Latta Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Farmer & Dee Funeral Home on Jul. 18, 2025.
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William J. Latta, Sr.
Retired Tewksbury Police Officer
William J. “Bill” Latta, Sr., age 78, a resident of Tewksbury for over 70 years, passed away at Lowell General Hospital on Thursday, July 17, 2025. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William Latta →

By Bob Katzen

The Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure held a hearing on a proposal that would require establishments that serve alcohol to be consumed on the premises to, upon request, provide a lid with a customer’s drink. The measure also requires the establishment to post a notice, in a prominent and conspicuous location, informing patrons that lids are available. Continue reading DRINK SPIKING (S 293) →

By Bob Katzen

A bill that would establish a JOL Fund to provide financial assistance to students from disadvantaged backgrounds who cannot afford to pay for driver education courses was heard by the Transportation Committee. Continue reading JUNIOR OPERATOR’S LICENSE (JOL) FUND (S 2415) →

By Bob Katzen

A bill heard by the Education Committee would prohibit any person admitted to any public school from being discriminated against, based on age, in obtaining the advantages, privileges and courses of study in that school. Continue reading PROHIBIT AGE DISCRIMINATION IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS (H 662) →

By Bob Katzen

The Revenue Committee held a hearing on legislation that would allow cities and towns to implement a local option tax on owners of enclosed shopping malls that have less than 67 percent occupancy in their retail spaces for a continuous period of at least nine months and fails to convert a proportion of its property to other specified uses, to be determined by the city or town, for lease or sale. The measure also allows the city or town to determine the amount of any new tax.
Continue reading TAX ON ENCLOSED SHOPPING MALLS WITH SUBSTANTIAL AND PERSISTENT VACANCIES (H 3240) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would align Massachusetts with the other 49 states by adopting the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA).
Continue reading CHILD CUSTODY CASES (S 2550 →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters said would protect consumers and keep people from being pushed into financial ruin if they are sued for financial debt. They said the new law would make debt collection practices fairer, protect wages and make clear that no person can be imprisoned for unpaid consumer debt. Continue reading DEBT COLLECTION (S 2537) →

By Bob Katzen

House 30-129, rejected an amendment that would expand current law which provides privacy protection for people receiving reproductive health care services or gender-affirming health care. The amendment would expand current law by also protecting the privacy of the “refusal by any person to obtain reproductive health care services, gender-affirming health care services or any other preventative medical care on behalf of themselves or their minor children.” Continue reading EXPAND PRIVACYPROTECTION (H 4271) →

By Bob Katzen

House 130-29, approved legislation, dubbed by sponsors as the Shield Act, that supporters say would strengthen health care protections in the Bay State. The bill is designed to fortify protections for people seeking and providing reproductive and transgender care. The Senate has already approved a different version of the proposal and a House-Senate conference committee will eventually hammer out a compromise version of the measure. Continue reading REPRODUCTIVE AND TRANSGENDER CARE PROTECTIONS – THE SHIELD ACT (H 4271) →

Hey does anyone know what happened to RevClinics (Somerville’s first pot shop)on lower Broadway across from Vinny’s? Continue reading What Happened to RevClinics (Somerville’s first pot shop)on Lower Broadway →

Boston Federal Court Hears Injunction Request from Somerville and Chelsea, Mass.

BOSTON—Two sanctuary Cities in Massachusetts—Somerville and Chelsea—had their first hearing in federal court today on the filing of a preliminary injunction asking a federal court to block the Trump Administration’s attempts to strip them of federal funding because they refuse to be coerced into participating in the Administration’s mass deportation efforts. Continue reading Court Hearing Held on Massachusetts Sanctuary Cities’ Challenge to Federal Funding Threats →

City of Somerville Mayor, Katjana Ballantyne, and the Somerville Police Department would like to welcome three new police officers. Officer Dayquan Goodnow, Officer Victor Souza, and Officer Benjy Antoine recently transferred and were sworn in on Monday, July 14th. Continue reading Somerville PD Welcomes Three New Police Officers →