The Somerville News Blog

Newstalk for July 21

Rumor has it that one of the remaining out of the city potential candidates for Chief of Police is just using Somerville as a stepping stone so he can become Chief of Police for his home city. We only hope that the mayor as well as the Board of Aldermen can see through this and ask enough questions so we don't have to go through this process every two years.

Newstalk for July 7

We hear Sen. Patricia Jehlen is in a tizzy about word getting out on her son-in-law's troubles in India (he allegedly committed fraud and failed to pay wages to employees in connection with a company he operated). She's already trying to silence anyone who brings it up. That's probably best since it's an election year. Well, we'll see if voters will tolerate more shady deals on Beacon Hill or if they want a new option. There may be a strong anti-incumbent tide against Sen. Jehlen who's been entrenched in party politics since the 1970s.

Newstalk for June 23

We here at Newstalk offer our congratulations and best wishes to John Howe Jr. and Karen Barrios who are tying the knot this coming Saturday. We wish them both many years of happiness. John is a member of a very prominent Somerville family, his father John was an elected official for a long time and his aunt Marie was the very popular state Representative from Somerville. His retired uncle Bill is up from Florida for the big wedding. John is also with the Somerville Police, and they both reside right here in Somerville.

Newstalk for June 16

Local 25 was standing out on Broadway in Magoun Square for the past few days during a labor dispute with Marchese Construction. Marchese is the private contractor that the city hired to do all the street construction project in that area. Apparently Marchese is being accused of using non-union workers -- that didn't sit right with Local 25.

Newstalk for May 26

This Sunday, May 30 at 1 p.m., the Memorial Day parade starts at City Hall and winds through the city, as folks march up Highland through Davis up to Teele ending at North and Broadway. Every year it gets bigger and bigger and this year is no different, we hear that it's the biggest one yet. Much thanks and appreciation to the Head of Veterans Services Frank Senesi who has worked hard to raise money in the private sector to pay for it. You see him in the parade say hi and thank him; we are big fans of him and his department.

Newstalk for May 19

Newly elected Senator Sal DiDominico will be sworn in at the State House this Thursday and we here at the News congratulate him, several of his supporters will be on hand to witness it. Sal was just elected in a special election but he's already running for re-election, we know he'll do well and think he will be the kind of Senator that will be responsive to the citizens, unlike others we know.

Newstalk for April 21

The annual Patriots Day ceremony is getting more popular each year and hopefully we'll see crowds there like we used to. Paul Revere arrived at Foss Park on Monday and all the children and adults greeted him on his run to Lexington. Every year it's a shame to see that certain elected officials don't show up. But Mayor Joe was there to greet Paul and everyone present. Hopefully next year he has more company.

Newstalk for April 7

Monday was the fifth anniversary of Senator Charlie Shannon's passing, hardly seems possible -- seems like yesterday. Charlie was a great guy, well liked by many here in Somerville and liked by many sides of the Political isle as well. It was very nice that Senator Pat Jehlen made a motion Monday in the Senate chambers to suspend the business in memory of Senator Shannon.

Newstalk for March 17

This past week's weather has proven to be one of the worst in recent memory with all the flooded out basements. Many businesses, as well as homes, were in big trouble - but thanks to Somerville's Police/Fire and DPW workers for doing a great job.

Newstalk for March 10

If you haven't been to the Southern Middlesex County Registry of Deeds lately, you should go and see what our own Gene Brune has done down there. The place looks great, totally upgraded, modern and efficient. To think he designed it himself, right down to the pictures on the wall of all the various cities and towns in Middlesex County. He did this we were told all under-budget, not many of our political leaders can claim that can they? Gene has done a great job down there and we congratulate him.

Newstalk for February 17

This city should be proud of all the events locally sponsored to help with Haitian Earthquake relief. Many events have already happened, two are happening this week, and if you haven't done something yet - now is an opportunity to not only donate, but also enjoy yourself. The two events happening this week are on Thursday at the Somerville Theatre, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, and then on Sunday for 13 hours of non-stop band performances at Sally O'Brien's, located at 335 Somerville Avenue. Both are worth while events - and you can do some good by attending. Details of both are below.

Newstalk for February 10

Huge crowd Monday night at the Capuano School for the citywide Democratic caucus, along with a lot of confusion. Many candidates for local and statewide offices were also on hand and the Chairperson of the city committee gave them the opportunity to speak. It would have been nice to have the business of the caucus done with and voting done and out of the way first. There used to be a rule that doors are closed at the local caucus at the time stated and time - which on Monday night was 6:30 pm. Once doors are closed no one is allowed into the caucus. For many years there was a long-standing rule to that effect. On Monday night, the doors were not closed and locked after 6:30 pm - and many people came and went throughout the process. Guess the powers that be have just stricken that rule, so now anyone can come anytime to vote at caucuses, which is great. So in the future, when the local caucuses meet and they try and say the doors are shut and locked after the stated time, we can remind them of Monday February 8th. A rule is a rule, but again if they changed that rule, you'd think people would have been notified in advance?

Newstalk for February 3

Very sad to see that Ames Envelope Company is now closing its doors here in Somerville and moving West - out of Massachusetts. Ames was at one time the largest single employer here in Somerville and had been in business now for over 90 years. It's sad to see them go, it's the sign of the times, the last of the big time local employers. Some of the employees were offered the opportunity to be relocated, were not sure how many took the company up on the offer. We hope that the existing employees that are let go will find another employment soon. ***************

Newstalk for January 20

Another special election coming up - seems like we are having a major run on "special elections" - this one to fill the vacant Senatorial seat that was held by Anthony Galluccio. We hear that former resident Mike Albano, son of former Senator Sal, is running. Mike is a small business owner in the Back Bay and has lived in Chelsea for several years and serves on the Planning Board there. We hear that Sal DiDominico, a current Everett Councilor and chief aide to Galluccio, is running. But still undecided is our own Maryann Heuston, who serves as Alderman in Ward 2 here. She is very popular and looks like she and Margie Decker, a City Councilor in Cambridge would be the only two women running so far. Time will tell, but there could be a huge selection of candidates running for the seat.

Newstalk for January 6

The 234th anniversary of the raising of the first Union Flag was this past New Years day, great weather and crowd considering last year's event. It was also nice to see that it wasn't as political in the speeches. The ceremony was very nice and well planned out and everyone involved deserves a nice round of applause. This year it was done at noon - seems to be getting later and later in the day as the years go on but it looked like everyone enjoyed themselves. ***************

Newstalk for December 30

Happy New Year in 2010 for everyone - hopefully it's a better year for everyone and the economy is back in place. To start off 2010 you're invited to turn out for a short procession/parade from City Hall to Prospect Hill for the annual ceremony commemorating the raising of the Grand Union Flag. The procession/parade leaves City Hall at 11:30am and the ceremony at Prospect Hill tower is set for 12pm. Come join in and celebrate with your neighbors and friends. Refreshments will be served immediately afterwards.

Newstalk for December 2

The special election for our new Senator is this coming Tuesday, December 8th - and our own Mike Capuano will be having a "Somerville Rally" at the Holiday Inn on Washington Street this coming Sunday, December 6th at 5:30pm. A big turnout of supporters and well wishers will be on hand, come out and show your support for one of our own. Mayor Joe Curtatone, the entire Board of Aldermen and School Committee, Senator Jehlen, Rep. Provost and Rep. Toomey will be in attendance (now that's what the REAL "local leaders" list looks like) to help get Mike elected. *************** Speaking of which, last week all the papers got a press release from the Martha Coakley for Senate campaign, which was somewhat misrepresenting and distorted over her endorsements from "Somerville Leaders" they included former Senator Sal Albano who was thrown out of office in 1990 by then Republican and long time Senator Charlie Shannon (Albano hasn't lived here in Somerville since early 1991). Then there was Dot Gay, former Mayor, another one that was tossed out of office in a primary election because she couldn't muster enough support to win - who conveniently forgot about the pictures she took with Mike Capuano when she was running. Then there is State Representative Carl Sciortino - who lives in Medford, and only 30% of his district is in Somerville, if that. Finally, the only really credible name of the four - former Mayor and current Middlesex County Register of Deeds Gene Brune - who is arguably the most popular of the four and certainly the ONLY currently elected "local leader" from Somerville. So the heading on the press release would lead anyone outside of the city to believe that these 4 represent Somerville as our leaders. Notice that the Farm Team over there probably, like other publications, didn't recognize some of the names and just printed the press release as it was sent. That just goes to prove our point that we are the only real source for local news - at least we know who lives here and represents us. No surprise that at election time all sorts of misquotes and distortions happen, don't they? *************** Somerville Maple Syrup Fundraiser at the Independent this Saturday, December 5th from 11am to 4pm in Union Square. *************** Lyndells in Ball Square is celebrating 122 years in business this Wednesday, December 2nd, giving away free cupcakes - go and get one and wish them many more years. *************** Lots of speculation centered around Somerville Police Chief Anthony Holloway and the burning question - will he go or will he stay? Be realistic, would you spend your days in the cold northeast snowstorms all winter long freezing to the bone, walking across the street to Union Square in three feet of snow, dodging big snow plows and buses that always tend to splash pedestrians with cold wet slush while just trying to cross the intersection to get a coffee at DD's - or would you prefer to walk to the corner outdoor café in short sleeves and sunglasses in the sunshine state with 80 degree sunny weather dodging palm trees and still get paid a chief's pay? It's a no brainer... *************** Have you noticed the accumulating number of bicyclist accidents that have occurred around the city lately? They are either crashing into moving cars or just plain wiping out on their own. New bicycle and auto rules must be enforced, before someone gets seriously hurt. *************** Who put those concrete barriers in the foundation hole and also who paid for the freshly paved side street on the property located at 73 Cross Street? That project is up for sale now that everyone in the neighborhood is upset over the loss of parking spaces and the horrible condition it looks like. We know who the owner is - an appointed official of the ZBA board and the bank who fronted the money is clearly on the sign - Winter Hill Bank funded the failed project. We hear there are 8 permits to go with the project. Hopefully the neighbors will see improvements soon. *************** The Annual City Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is this Thursday, December 3rd at City Hall concourse. *************** Toys for Local Children are a volunteer non-profit organization - providing toys and funding to over 8,000 children who have been victims of violence, displacement or poverty. While you're in the Square, please don't forget to visit the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign from 4pm to 8pm in the heart of the Square and DARBI's annual Midnight Madness - that includes exclusive sales 6pm to midnight on December 3rd. *************** The annual toy drive and fundraiser down at the Somerville Housing Authority is happening once again this year, severing all the needy families in the project. Call 617 625-1152 to donate and help out. *************** Have you noticed our new Somerville News and Cambridge News "Mobile/On the Scene" unit vehicles? They are out there in full force bringing you more daily local coverage of news and events as they happen in our community. You can reach the new Cambridge News Weekly site here in Somerville through our own web site. Watch for huge new developments and things to come real shortly - this is only the beginning. ***************

Newstalk for November 25

Sex Magic Music Productions presents a Night of Rock 'n Roll to benefit the MA C.O.P.s. Kids charity - on Friday, Dec. 4th starting at 8pm at the Sports Bar in the Holiday Inn on Washington Street. MA C.O.P.S. for Kids benefits the children of Police Officers that have fallen in the line of duty. This event is being solely planned by Marco Soares the band leader and long time Somerville resident, Marco is a nice guy who has the holiday spirit. *************** The Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive for the Somerville community at CHA's Somerville Hospital campus Monday, November 30th from 10am to 3pm in the hospital cafeteria. *************** Is Chief Holloway staying or will he go to work back in Clearwater Florida at his old department - but this time around as their new Police Chief? We hear from sources down in the Clearwater area that the current Chief has decided to delay his retirement till after the holidays - and the decision of who will be picked is narrowed down to only a couple. *************** The Cambridge Weekly News website started a few weeks back very quietly, but you'll be hearing and seeing it taking root in Cambridge - as more and more local people over there have jumped on board and there are more to come. We will have some good news to shout about coming up in January over there and possibly another community as well. Don't worry, The Somerville News will still only be Somerville news, but you can go online to view the Cambridge site - www.cambridgenewsweekly.com *************** Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event will be held from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday, December 3rd at Sagra Restaurant Bar & Café at 400 Highland Avenue, Davis Square. Come one and all to support the Chamber's hard work and their efforts to keep Somerville businesses on the move and thriving. *************** On the Best of Somerville 2009, the cook at Ball Square Café - Omar Djebbouri is absolutely one of the best around - and his food is top notch. The Café had some visits by some Newstalkers recently, sampling the breakfast - which if you haven't been, the wait in line is worth it - and oh, by the way, say hi to Patty Oppedisano - she's the waitress of the year as well. Patty has the best smiles and she's so pleasant. Great place to take the family on Thanksgiving Day morning breakfast, we'll see you there. *************** Holiday seasons, we hope you will remember the underprivileged children around Somerville by wrapping up a new toy and dropping it off a West Somerville Dental Office located at 124 College Avenue. They are collecting toys for the "Toys for Tots" program. ***************

Newstalk for November 18

Don't forget tonight (the 18th) the public hearing at the high school auditorium on the Green Line extension project, which is presenting the draft of an Environmental Impact Report/Environmental Assessment. 6 p.m. at 81 Highland Ave.

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Teen Empowerment will be holding a benefit at Johnny D's, Davis Square, Wednesday, November 18, 8 p.m. Youth raps, spoken word and poetry. Public Interest will also perform. Tickets are only $10.

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The residents of Ciampa Manor on College Ave. in Davis Square were very pleased when their neighbor Golden Light Restaurant (across the street), sent over a lot of food for the building recently. The residents couldn't have been happier. This kind of thing needs to be done more and more in today's economy - we salute Golden Light and urge everyone to order there and say you saw it here.

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New residential parking permit rules go into effect for the entire city in January, so as a resident you need to get to Traffic & Parking on Holland Street and apply for your permit so you don't get hit with a ticket.

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We heard recently that a small group just got started here in Somerville and could grow if the elected officials and the DPW don't want to listen to them. This group of residents remembers in the past how during snow emergencies the city plowed in the same side of the streets and plowing in driveways too - no sooner would residents would get their driveways clean and along comes the city plow pushing it all back in. It's been noted by one of their members in other cities and towns, not all but some, they take turns shifting the side from odd to even and then back to odd numbers - some of them are talking about a lawsuit against the city!

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Rumor has it that Frank Santangelo, who is head of Buildings and Grounds, had left his post to return to the union ranks. We heard that it will happen, just not as of today. We heard all sorts of names to fill his position, but nothing concrete as of yet. Frank has been very good in his job and does it very well, he represented the city very professionally. In the past we had issues with him - and we were wrong - he's a good guy and all about Somerville. We certainly wish him luck in whatever transpires.

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Happy birthday to our friend Joe Geraneo of Somerville, Joe's a great guy and we here at The News wish him all the best and many more years.

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Stopped into taste the pizza place voted Best of Somerville 2009,Pizza Palace, and it was hoping. Business is good, and we know why now -- the food is out of this world. We wish the owners much success. Next week something on Victor's in Ball Square.

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Some political chatter here in Somerville: with all the movement statewide and especially since State Auditor Joe DeNucci has decided to call it quits we hear through some people that Mayor Joe might like to take a run at the position. He would be good no matter what, but most of us are hoping he stays here in Somerville as the Mayor for many years to come.

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The Christmas trees will be back at Foss Park in a couple of weeks...students at Somerville's Full Circle/Next Wave Alternative School will be putting on their annual Christmas tree and wreath fundraiser. Sales will begin at 4pm on December 3rd so make sure you get in line and get good quality trees and wreaths - while supporting the Full Circle/Next Wave Alternative School.

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The SHS Class of 1984 is having its 25th Reunion on November 27th from 7pm to 11pm at the Dante Club on Craigie Street. Tickets are $25 now or $30 at the door - checks should be made payable to Chris Westphal and can be mailed to 126 North Marshall Street, Revere, MA 02151. For more information, you can contact Eileen (Forristall) Westphal at allott214@ yahoo.com or Mary (Allosso) Finigan at [email protected]. Both ladies are also on Facebook if you want to look for them on there.

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We hear that our good friend and familiar to Somerville comic Stephanie Arena Peters has started up her own Stand Up Comedy Show and is making her first appearance at a comedy shop called "Ryles" in Inman Square, Cambridge on December 13th. We wish her the best of luck - knock-em dead Stephanie - you can visit her website at www.thecomdeydiva.com.

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Monday, November 23rd: The Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SPEDPAC) is hosting a workshop for parents/guardians of student who receive special education on "Understanding your Basic Rights." For more information or to RSVP contact Debby Higgins, SPED PAC Coordinator at 617-625-6600 ext 6829 or [email protected]

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The Growing Center of Somerville will be holding its annual wreath sale, one of its biggest and most celebrated fundraisers.All proceeds support the Somerville Community Growing Center and collaborative programs with the Walnut Street Center. To order wreaths contact the Growing Center at (617) 666-2969 or email [email protected]

Newstalk for November 11

Today is Veterans Day and the city has invited all interested community members to attend the annual Veteran's Day ceremonies 10 a.m. at the VFW Post located at 371 Summer St. in Davis Square. The city will be holding the annual ceremonies along with the Allied Veterans' Council, which will include an honor guard and brief speeches by local elected officials.

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This Saturday is the annual "Somerville News Writers Festival" - all day and into the evening - tickets are only $10 and can be bought at the door or go on the website and see the all the celebrities that will be appearing. Our own Doug Holder and Tim Gager work hard every year on this and it shows, every year it gets bigger and bigger. It's a great event and we enjoy being part of it - see you there!

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Don't forget the public hearing next week (Nov. 18 at 6 p.m.) at the Somerville High School Auditorium (81 Highland Ave.) for the Green Line Extension Project - the Mass DOT Office will present findings and recommendations for the Green Line Extension. Should be interesting to see how the project is progressing here in Somerville.

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Last week's spelling bee put on by the PTA from the West Somerville Neighborhood School was a huge success - Alderwoman Rebekah Gewirtz's team won, narrowly beating out the Mayor's team. The event raised over 3K for the kids at the West Somerville Neighborhood School.

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The City of Somerville rescinded former School Committee member / Board of Alderman member and former Registrar of Probate John Buonomo's $3,200 per month pension. John pleaded guilty recently to charges that he stole state copy machine money from the courthouse and also his own campaign fund. He is appealing the decision and the hearing is set for later this month - on the 28th.

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Former well-known attorney and long-time Somerville resident, Frank Dardeno, Sr. recently passed away. Our condolences to his family. Frank, Sr. was very active here in the city and was very well liked.

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The Somerville High Class of 1984 is holding its 25th Reunion coming up on Nov. 27 from 7 p.m. to 11p.m. at the Dante Club (3 Dante Terrace). Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Checks should be made payable to Chris Westphal and can be mailed to 126 North Marshall St., Revere, MA 02151. You can also contact Eileen (Forristall) Westphal at [email protected] or Mary (Allosso) Finigan at [email protected]. Both Eileen and Mary are on Facebook, so you can also look for them there.

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Happy birthday to our good friend and delivery / aka all around nice guy Jimmy Mastromatteo, who is celebrating it this week. Jimmy is the go-to guy here at The News and delivers like clockwork every Wednesday to more than 165 locations. Another Happy birthday to Louie Oliveira, who is also blowing out candles this week.

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Get well from The News to local guy Charlie Moran, who is now back home recovering from minor surgery. We all hope to see him up and about on his feet and back to work very shortly.

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We hear that our good friend and familiar-to-Somerville comic Stephanie Arena Peters has started up her own Stand Up Comedy Show and is making her first appearance at a comedy shop called "Ryles" in Inman Square, Cambridge on Dec. 13. We wish her the best of luck - knock-em dead Stephanie. You can visit her website at www.thecomdeydiva.com

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Herb Chambers has to have the nicest / friendliest staff around. They make you feel right at home and it's even nicer to know that it's a Somerville-based dealership that is headquartered here in Somerville.

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