Welcome to Ward 5 Online

Check Out Sample Ballots For The 2012 Presidential Primaries...

2012-02-25T21:12:00.000-05:00

Below, you will find links to each sample ballot for the 2012 Presidential Primaries. If you would like more voting information, be sure to visit the Elections Department website. There, you will be able to see the most recent election results, campaign finance reports, and different voting-related documents.

Democratic

Green Rainbow

Republican

Don't know where you're supposed to vote? Check out this address look-up tool to find your polling place!

Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours at Olde Magoun's Saloon!

2012-02-25T11:33:00.004-05:00

5:00 to 7:00 P.M., Thursday, March 1, 2012

Olde Magoun’s Saloon

518 Medford Street, Magoun Square

Sponsored by: Cambridge Repro-Graphics

Excellent networking event featuring free appetizers and a free business card drawing with cash bar. Hosted by Somerville Chamber of Commerce and Business After Hours Co-Chair Dana Iacopucci of Cubby Oil.

RSVP for “After Hours” with name(s) and affiliation(s) for you and your guest(s) to Stephen Mackey at smackey@somervillechamber.org

Press Release: Occupy Somerville to Rally Before MBTA Meeting

2012-02-24T13:20:00.002-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 24, 2012

For more info contact:

Rebecca Batorsky: 908-812-1507

Rand Wilson: 617-949-9720

Rally with Occupy Somerville at MBTA hearing

Occupy Somerville and a coalition of other community organizations including Groundwork Somerville and Somerville Community Corporation will rally at the Somerville MBTA hearing at 5 pm on Feb. 28 to protest the proposed rate hikes and service cuts. Outside the hearing, in front of Somerville High School, community members will speak-out to voice their concerns, accompanied by chanting, singing and banner waving.

What does the MBTA propose?

· Fare hikes of 30-40%

· Service cuts that threaten many Somerville bus lines

· Elimination of hundreds of T worker's jobs throughout Boston

Why?

· To pay greedy banks billions of dollars in debt!

The OCCUPY movement has a better idea:

· Demand that our legislators expand rather than decrease funding for public transportation

· Demand that the bailed-out banks renegotiate the MBTA debt

"WHAT DO WE DO WHEN BANKS ATTACK? ... STAND UP! FIGHT BACK!"

Check out our website at:http://occupysomervilleMA.org

School Committee to Meet on Monday

2012-02-24T10:00:00.012-05:00

The School Committee will hold their regularly scheduled meeting in the Aldermanic Chambers of City Hall on Monday at 7pm. This meeting is open to the public and all residents/concerned citizens are encouraged to attend.

You can watch the meeting live on Channel 16 (Comcast) or Channel 13 (RCN). This meeting will be rebroadcast at various times throughout the week, as well as, streamed live on the internet. A video of the meeting is saved on the City's Meeting Portal under the Recent Media header.

The Word Around The Ward...

2012-02-23T10:00:00.037-05:00

Who would've known that the slightest invitation to discuss the political possibilities this election year would prompt me to publish the Who?...What?...Why?...For The Massachusetts Political Scene earlier then I anticipated. Obviously, it is one of the top posts that's being read on the website and the comments section is growing by the day. Have any ideas? Click on the linked title and enter your comments!

It's good to see that Alderman Sean O'Donovan is not the only member of the BOA that's taking on parking issues around the city. After attending a couple of meetings, I can already see Ward 7 Alderman Bob Trane and Ward 2 Alderman Maryann Heuston beginning to take notice how parking issues can seriously impact their community. Alderman Trane wants visitors to be able to stay longer, meaning, more time for the Somervillians' money when buying a visitor pass and Alderman Heuston is concerned for Somerville Avenue businesses losing a ton of parking post-construction. There's strength in numbers and, maybe, the rumors that Mayor Curtatone is moving on may get that pendulum swinging less in the right direction.

I belong to many listservs in Somerville and none have been more alive then Somerville-4-Schools, especially surrounding the Charter School proposal that was submitted and recently not recommended by Commissioner Mitchell Chester. Michael Chiu, the list moderator, has had to warn posters not to submit private emails to the list for public viewing-a warning that dismayed one member very much. This member has vowed to continue to forward harassing emails they receive regarding the Charter School (or any school-related topic) to the list despite warnings. Who knew?!

There was some activity in the space formally held by Lil' Vinny's this past weekend, so it will be interesting to see when things really take shape and when Daddy Jones will be ready and open for business.

Cedar Street construction is moving along with the condos at the bridge almost near completion. Once those are done, expect more work at the old Royal White location as the same contractor will be doing the condos there, as well.

Life on the Community Path seems to be, well, more welcoming of all communities. I reported only two unleashed dogs this past week and the Animal Control Officer was seen at the Lexington Park hot spot on Friday night. Hopefully, the path will be much safer for everyone as the spring approaches.

The Board of Aldermen are meeting tonight and the School Committee meets next Monday in the Aldermanic Chambers of City Hall, both starting at 7pm.

Please don't forget about the meeting at Somerville High School on the 28th regarding fare hikes and service cuts by the MBTA from 6-8pm in the Auditorium.

Board of Aldermen to Meet on Thursday

2012-02-22T10:00:00.006-05:00

The Board of Aldermen will hold their regularly scheduled meeting in the Aldermanic Chambers of City Hall on Thursday at 7pm. This meeting is open to the public and all residents/concerned citizens are encouraged to attend.

You can watch the meeting live on Channel 16 (Comcast) or Channel 13 (RCN). This meeting will be rebroadcast at various times throughout the week, as well as, streamed live on the internet. A video of the meeting is saved on the City's Meeting Portal under the Recent Media header.

The agenda is posted on the City's Meeting Portal 48 hours before the scheduled meeting time.

Radar Feedback Pilot Back in Ward 5

2012-02-21T10:00:00.002-05:00

Radar at Lowell Street bridge

Commuters along the Lowell Street bridge have been faced with a return of the Radar Feedback Pilot Program when approaching the bridge from Medford Street proceeding towards Highland Avenue. This program was piloted last April starting in Wards 5 and 2 for traffic calming with the solar powered radar then moving over to Ward 7 to gain data.

Initially, residents welcomed the program as it followed on the heels of a ResiStat meeting that reintroduced concerns surrounding crossing on the south side of the Lowell Street bridge at the VNA and Princeton Street. New signage was posted with the radar following a few months later prompted by submissions to the Board of Alderman by Ward 5 Representative Sean O'Donovan.

The sign has been placed at the same location for data comparison purposes. A few differences will definitely have to be taken into consideration including increased construction on the Maxwell's Green development which have resulted in vehicles utilizing the new ramp at Lowell Street to enter the site, as well as, the design of the Community Path extension to Lowell Street. This is keeping in line with one of the main purposes of the program which has been described as "part of the City's ongoing efforts to increase pedestrian and bicycle safety, and to make Somerville more walkable, pedestrian- and bike-friendly community," according to the City of Somerville. Construction for the Community Path should begin in 2012 with completion slated for 2013. Maxwell's Green should be completed soon thereafter and will feature 184 units of luxury apartments with 25 designated as affordable.

Somerville Begins Communication Effort to Curb Unleashed Dog Activity

2012-02-20T17:04:00.001-05:00

The City of Somerville is beginning the effort to curb the rising unleashed dog activity with Twitter posts from 311 and Facebook messages from the Somerville Police Department that started last week. Prompted by suggestions stemming from a recent meeting of the Public Health and Public Safety Committee, the city has hit the social media world to spread the word that popular spots for dog owners to unleash their pets will be subject to increased patrol by both the Animal Control Officer, as well as, plain-clothes officers issuing citations and fines.

The Somerville News is also experiencing some impressive numbers in the comments section of their article discussing the issue on the Community Path. It looks like irresponsible dog owners are spread out further then the multi-use path between Cedar Street and Davis Square. One reader commented how he was confronted by an unleashed dog at Powderhouse Park while others pointed out that they see unleashed activity right on city sidewalks.

Readers have also expressed their concern over increasing the amount of off-leash friendly space citing that it would create an awful experience for abutters and encourage more people to get dogs.

As the warm weather approaches, Police have promised to crack down on unleashed activity to keep our shared spaces safe for everyone. The Committee on Public Health and Public Safety will reconvene in the early summer to see the progress of this effort and be updated on the amount of citations written. The issue was initially recommended to the committee when legislative item number 192345 was submitted through the Board of Alderman by Ward 6 Representative Rebekah Gewirtz.

In the meantime, please continue to record all unleashed dogs with 311 via the iPhone App (examples below), online, by calling 311 on a Somerville landline or at 617-666-3311 from a cell phone.

Increase In Visitor Parking From 48 to 72 Hours?

2012-02-20T10:00:00.009-05:00

Alderman Bob Trane

If Ward 7 Alderman Bob Trane has his way, this could be a reality!

Legislative File #192109 was submitted in October 2011 requesting that the Traffic Commission consider extending visitor parking from 48 to 72 hours. The request was handed off to the Commission where it was taken up at their November 2011 meeting and was tabled after concern for residents in densely populated areas was brought up by Director Matt Dias.

Legislative File #192503 was then submitted in January asking the Director of Traffic and Parking perform a cost benefit analysis on the proposal to increase visitor passes from 48 to 72 hours and report the findings to the Committee on Traffic and Parking. The Committee will be taking up this issue at their February 21st meeting being held in the second floor committee room of City Hall at 6pm.

The remainder of the agenda is as follows:

· PUBLIC HEARING on Green Cab’s request for a fare increase
· 192109: Discuss in Committee That this Board requests that the Traffic Commission consider extending visitor parking from 48 to 72 hours.
· 192273: Recommend Green Cab requesting consideration from this Board for a taxi fare increase.
· 192428: Discuss in Committee That the Director of Traffic and Parking consult with the Traffic Engineer to determine the feasibility of Cross Street East being a one way from Broadway to Mystic Avenue.
· 192510: Discuss in Committee Director of Traffic and Parking responding to various Board Orders.
· 192503: Discuss in Committee That the Director of Traffic and Parking perform a cost benefit analysis on the proposal to increase visitor passes from 48 to 72 hours and report the findings to the Committee on Traffic and Parking.
· 192504: Discuss in Committee That the Chief of Police conduct sting operations on non-licensed cabs and report the results to the Committee on Traffic and Parking.
· 192537: Discuss in Committee That the Commissioner of Public Works repair the light on the traffic island directly in front of 252 Medford Street.

Heuston, Curtatone Tied 1-1

2012-02-19T13:19:00.002-05:00

Eugene C. Brune

The Somerville News reports that Maria Curtatone recently held her first organizational rally in her bid for the Middlesex County Registrar of Deeds. Mentioning a "a packed room full of over a hundred supporters" it is clear that the Mayor's sister is finding strength in numbers.

Photograph by The Somerville News

Maryann Heuston, on the other hand, is choosing quality over quantity, as she published a picture taken on the steps of City Hall with members of the Board of Alderman, Representatives Denise Provost and Tim Toomey, and (most importantly) the current registrar Gene Brune.

Photograph published by Maryann Heuston

This proving to be one hell of a race to watch! Currently, neither have websites.

Press Release: Somerville Progressive Charter School (SPCS) Reacts to Commissioner Recommendation

2012-02-17T12:54:00.000-05:00

FROM: The Founders of the Somerville Progressive Charter School

DATE: February 17, 2012

RE: SPCS's 2012

Application for a Commonwealth Charter Rejected

The Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner has declined to recommend that the Somerville Progressive Charter School (SPCS) receive a Commonwealth charter this year. According to the Charter School Office, SPCS's application was rejected because of identified shortcomings in the proposal. Next week, SPCS's founders will receive a written evaluation of their proposal and they will have the next five months in which to address any shortcomings before beginning the application process again. It is not uncommon for applicants to receive charters after addressing the Commissioner's concerns in their second application. SPCS's founders look forward to bringing a new, K-8, public school option to Somerville families in September 2013. We invite interested members of the public to join us in this exciting effort.

To contact us please go to: http://www.thespcs.org/home/contact-page

Eat at Jumbo's Nominated Best for Chicken Wings by Phoenix Readers!

2012-02-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

Phoenix readers nominated Eat at Jumbo's as one of Boston’s Best for Chicken Wings in The Phoenix’s Best Reader’s Poll!

You can vote once a day and winners will be announced on April 13th!

Guest Commentary: Local is a Two-Way Street

2012-02-17T10:00:00.009-05:00

By Kelsey Roth of The Management

A friend of mine approached me the other day and asked, “‘I’ve been getting into biking lately, and I want to support my local bike shop. But when I check prices online, it’s usually cheaper. Why should I pay the higher prices just to shop local?”

I took this as a teaching moment and talked to him about how spending his money locally is better for the economy and how price shouldn’t be the only determining factor. A local bike shop could add a lot of value to his shopping experience in ways an online retailer could not. But something concerned me about his situation. What if his particular local bike shop wasn’t giving him a reason to shop locally?

We often put the success of the local movement on the customer. We use slogans like “Shift Your Shopping” and “Buy Local”. But I believe the small, local business is just as responsible for the success of the local movement and the local economy as the customer.

The big online retailers have two main advantages over the small local business: Price and Convenience. They know this and do whatever they can to promote it. The lure of shopping during your lunch hour without leaving your desk, or taking advantage of a special on-line only sale can be very seductive. In tough economic times, these are compelling features. But this doesn’t mean that the small, local business can’t compete.

Make It Personal:
The big retailers, whether online or a physical location, aren’t able to foster personal relationships with their customers like a local business can. Getting personal service from a national retailer is often rare for a variety of reasons, and sadly, it’s something many of us have gotten used to in exchange for low prices.

People prefer to buy from people they like and can relate to. The local store can take advantage of this by providing personal service, before, during and after the sale. Don’t sell people stuff, help them buy it. Listen to what the customer’s needs are and find solutions that are unique to them. Never miss an opportunity to communicate with them. Social media like Facebook and Twitter can help as well as email newsletters and blogs. Let them know when you have something you think they would like. Make the customer feel like you are their personal store.

Educate:
Chances are that you started your business because you are extremely passionate about it. You wouldn’t open a camera store, for example, and not love cameras and photography. Use that passion and knowledge to be the local, go-to expert for your customers. Use social media, your website or blog to post useful tips and information. A camera store could host free photography classes or give out a beginner’s guide to taking good pictures with every new camera purchase. Customers who respect your knowledge will be much more likely to return when they need advice and will trust your judgement on future purchases. Plus, people will enjoy their purchase more if they know how to get the most out of it. You already have all this knowledge, so put it to good use.

Offer Items Not Available at the Big Retailers:
The big retailers are able to offer low prices because they purchase in volume. As a result, they don’t carry some items because the supplier can’t produce the volume they demand. This provides you an opportunity to carry those items that a big retailer can’t or won’t carry. Usually items that are “green”, natural, organic, hand-made, or locally, independently produced or manufactured, are created on a small scale and are not attractive to the big retailers. Seek out those hard-to-find unique products and be their local source. Not only will you be helping other local companies, but it could help you carve a unique niche in the marketplace.

Just telling people to “shop local” isn’t enough. Local businesses need to do their part, too. It is too easy for customers to be lured into the seduction of low prices and convenience shopping. As local businesses, we need to find ways to add value to the goods and services we provide in ways that big national retailers can’t. Whether it’s through developing personal relationships with your customers, providing help and information, or just offering what the big guys can’t, we need to give customers a reason to “buy local”.

Press Release: The Welcome Project launches 2012 “YUM: A Taste of Immigrant City” initiative

2012-02-16T18:16:00.000-05:00

Somerville, MA – Highlighting the international flavors of ten immigrant-run Somerville restaurants, The Welcome Project today released the 2012 YUM Restaurant Card. Supporting the ongoing work this Somerville non-profit, the YUM Restaurant Card and April 25, 2012 celebration feature the multicultural cuisine of Somerville while strengthening the voices of immigrant families across the city.

“Immigrant-run businesses contribute to the local and economy and the rich culture of Somerville,” said Warren Goldstein-Gelb, director of The Welcome Project. “YUM offers a great opportunity to support and explore our community by trying new restaurants and getting discounts on international cuisine throughout the year.”

Good through the end of December, the 2012 YUM Restaurant card offers a 10% discount off food orders of $25 or more at ten immigrant-run restaurants. This year’s YUM eateries are also taking part in the Shape Up Approved campaign, sponsored by the City’s Shape Up Somerville initiative, which makes Somerville a healthier place to live, work, and eat by tagging healthier menu options at participating restaurants.

For one night only, these ten restaurants will come together, offering tastings of their cuisine for the second annual YUM: A Taste of Immigrant City celebration and fundraiser. Set for April 25, 2012 at the Center for Arts at the Armory, the 2012 YUM: A Taste of Immigrant City celebration will feature live entertainment and international tastes from around Somerville.

Individuals interested in purchasing a YUM Restaurant Card or tickets to the 2012 YUM: A Taste of Immigrant City celebration can do so by visiting www.yumsomerville.org.

The ten restaurants participating in the 2012 YUM: A Taste of Immigrant City are:

Aguacate Verde
Mexican, Porter Square

Amelia’s Kitchen
Italian, Teele Square

Churrasco
Brazilian, Magoun Square

Fasika
Ethiopian, East Somerville

Istanbul’lu
Turkish, Teele Square

Maya Sol
Mexican, East Somerville

Namaskar
Indian, Davis Square

Ronnarong Thai Tapas Bar
Thai, Union Square

Sabur
Mediterranean, Teele Square

Yak & Yeti
Nepali and Indian, Ball Square

Press Release: Progress Together Reacts to Today's Charter Recommendation...

2012-02-16T18:04:00.000-05:00

With Charter Battle Over, Somerville Looks Forward

Somerville, MA – Progress Together for Somerville is pleased with Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester’s decision to not recommend the Somerville Progressive Charter School for approval. We thank the DESE and the Commissioner for their careful consideration of this important matter. This decision will allow Somerville to focus its energy on improving our schools and providing innovative learning opportunities for all Somerville students. We believe that Somerville can be a model for what a dynamic, diverse, urban school district should look like and as a community we are committed to working with (and, if necessary, pressing) the City and the School District to make that a reality.

The events initiated by the Somerville Progressive Charter School application have demonstrated a passion for quality education across the city and, though we disagreed with the specific approach presented by the SPCS application, we applaud the applicants’ effort and believe that this has helped to energize the community around our schools. Progress Together for Somerville looks forward to working with anyone and everyone who is interested in improving our public schools and we invite those who proposed the SPCS to join us in this effort.

Good schools are almost always associated with parent involvement and we urge parents and community
members to get involved:

Join Progress Together for Somerville: Send an email to progresstogethersomerville@gmail.com or visit www.pt4s.org.
Attend the Community Education Forum in on March 18 (details will be provided on www.pt4s.org as soon as they are finalized).
Join your PTA, School Improvement Council, and/or get involved with your local school.

Progress Together for Somerville is an independent, grass-roots organization of parents that advocates
for exceptional public education for all students in Somerville.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES CONTACT: Michael Chiu, Progress Together for Somerville
(617-501-4714; michael.a.chiu@gmail.com)

Commissioner Chester recommends AGAINST proposed Somerville Progressive Charter School

2012-02-16T14:04:00.000-05:00

MALDEN – Massachusetts Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester today announced he will recommend that the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education grant four new charters this month to groups seeking to open schools in Boston, Holyoke, Lowell and Springfield.

The Commissioner's recommendation includes three Commonwealth charter schools and one Horace Mann charter school. Commonwealth charter schools are fully autonomous and operate independently of the local school district. Horace Mann charter schools are developed and operated in close cooperation with the host school district, and require approval by the local school committee.

"Massachusetts has a strong charter school accountability system that requires new applicant groups to clearly articulate how they will demonstrate academic success and organizational viability," said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester. "Each of the final applications contains strengths and weaknesses. The four groups that I am recommending developed compelling proposals, and if they are granted a charter by the Board later this month, I am confident they will be well positioned to improve student outcomes and become successful charter schools."

Commissioner Chester will recommend approval of Commonwealth charters for the following 3 schools:

· Baystate Academy Charter School (Springfield)

· Collegiate Charter School of Lowell (Lowell)

· Paulo Freire Social Justice Charter School (Holyoke)

The Commissioner will also recommend approval of a Horace Mann charter for the following school:

· Dudley Street Neighborhood School (Boston)

The Patrick-Murray Administration's Achievement Gap Act of 2010 raised the charter school cap in the lowest performing school districts and made a number of changes to the charter authorizing process. The cap on district net school spending under the Achievement Gap Act is being raised from 9 percent to a maximum of 18 percent through incremental steps. The cap lift only applies to districts with academic performance in the lowest 10 percent as measured by MCAS, and applicants under the cap lift must have a proven track record of success in increasing academic attainment and commit to working with a diverse population of students. Sixteen charter schools were approved last year after the cap was raised, bringing the total number of charter schools across the state to 79.

A total of seven prospectuses were submitted during the 2011-12 cycle last August. Applicants for all seven prospectuses were invited to submit final proposals for consideration in September 2011. After one group withdrew its application, a total of six final applications were submitted in November 2011. Finalists were taken through a multi-step process that included public hearings in the areas where the schools would be located with at least two Board members present for each hearing, a panel review of the final application by a team of Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and external reviewers, a lengthy public comment process and in-person interviews.

Two groups, Springfield Preparatory Charter School and Somerville Progressive Charter School, have not been recommended for new charters by the Commissioner. The founders of those two groups will receive feedback on their application and are invited to reapply during future application cycles.

The Board will vote on the Commissioner's recommendations at its February 28, 2012 regular meeting

Who?...What?...Why?...For The Massachusetts Political Scene

2012-02-16T12:18:00.000-05:00

Never afraid to put my name on political possibilities (sounds better than rumors doesn't it?), here is the official posting for the Who?...What?...Why?...For The Massachusetts Political Scene!

Jehlen retiring? Governor Curtatone? Who knows!? However, here is the space where you can vet out all of the scenarios and name names!

The possibilities are endless…
There was a conversation at a Council on Aging gathering about Mayor Joe Curtatone possibly running for Governor, but most insist he won't leave until his baby, Assembly Square, sees actual construction of the retail shops (post T stop construction according to my sources).

Ward 5 Alderman Sean O'Donovan has been rumored to be eyeing Pat Jehlen's seat while some speculate she's retiring. At the 2011 inauguration held at City Hall, she laughed about the retirement rumor, so I'm saying that's not true. The PDSers seem to be a target as the mill is spinning in 7 that Bob Trane will challenge Carl Sciortino again. This leaves a possibility of Wards 5 and 7 being open to new representation.

Here's what we do know…
There's going to be a showdown in Somerville for Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds between the Brune-enodorsed Maryann Heuston and the non-politician Maria Curtatone. Both have respect, neither have websites. Will Maryann leave her position as Ward 2 Alderman? My sources say 'no.'

Comment away…

The Word Around The Ward...

2012-02-16T10:00:00.032-05:00

Conversations regarding unleashed dogs on the Community Path has really sparked some interesting commentary both here and over at the Somerville News via Harry Kane's excellently written article. Some realize this is an issue while others want focus to be made on crazy cyclists, as well. Some of the most vocal are responsible dog owners who walk their leashed friends down the path only to be confronted by unleashed bullies. It seems that the SPD is really needed to put the Community back into the Community Path.

It's Cajun/Creole month at Olde Magoun's Saloon...get it while it lasts!

Basil Tree has officially left Magoun Square and, if one business owner has his way, the space will be home to a new liquor store. No official information has been released, but I will keep you posted on meeting times and agenda items.

It seems that the Committee on Public Health and Public Safety has put noise concerns regarding the Armory to rest as of their last meeting on February 6th. Deputy Mike Cabral informed the committee that no new complaints have been made prompting chairman, Bill White, to place the legislative items (dating 2010) on file.

Speaking of the Armory, life in the Cafe is heating up as they continue to succeed as both a day and night venue. During the day, you can stop by for a great sandwich, coffee drink and free WiFi and, at night, check out a poetry reading, singer songwriter or open mic. The word in the ward is that movie nights will be coming soon, but nothing has been scheduled. I hope that's true!

Lil' Vinny's is also gone as of this past Saturday, as well. It was very sad to see them go and I wish the owners and staff great luck for whatever future path they choose in life! Thanks for making the last 11 years of my life well fed :)

We'll have to start taking about the potential state races soon and, of course, the Somerville showdown between Attorney Maria Curtatone and Ward 2 Alderman Maryann Heuston for Southern Middlesex County Register of Deeds! Get those websites up, ladies!

What do Bob Trane, Sean O'Donovan, and Mayor Joe Curtatone have in common. All are rumored to be looking at running for State positions. Will Bob challenge Carl again? Will Sean give Pat a run for her money? Will we be asking Governor Curtatone for the Green Line Extension? Do stay tuned for the official Who?...What?...Why?...For The Massachusetts Political Scene posting on Ward 5 Online. I did a similar post for the Somerville scene which became the popular post read and commented on in the website's history! FYI, I am not running for a State position...much to the dismay of my Mom and Dad ;)

Speaking of Sean O'Donovan, he'll be hosting his annual St. Patrick's Day party at The Armory (191 Highland Avenue) on March 16th! A more formal posting will be up on the website closer to the date.

As a social media fan, it's pretty disappointing how many of the former political candidates have stepped away from keeping in touch via Twitter, Facebook, and email. The only one that's been consistently tweeting is Todd Easton (Candidate for Alderman at Large). Also, you would think that they would stay active by attending meetings, but those are pretty empty, as well. As a word of advice to candidates and elected, keep your website up to date and stay visible on all media fronts! It's very easy and, when someone runs against you, it's a great way to show your track record and involvement. If you do have a website, talk to me, I bet I can suggest ways to make it stand out from the rest!

The battle for a Local Hiring Ordinance is really heating up as the Mayor's office was flooded with Valentine cards and phone calls supporting the initiative on Tuesday. Mayor Curtatone insists that he has spoken to the front line of the ordinance army, but sources say that conversation never happened! Curtatone has said that he will veto the measure if it threatens economic development, violates the law or adds an administrative burden according to the Somerville Journal. My bet is that if supporters of the ordinance get through the first two hurdles, the third will earn the veto. How do you prove it doesn't "add an administrative burden?" Answer: you can't.

Community Corridor Planning invites you to 2012 Community-Wide Assembly!

2012-02-15T11:54:00.001-05:00

Come one, come all!
Community Corridor Planning invites you to join us for our 2012 Community-Wide Assembly!

- Hear about our on-the-ground actions.
- Help us track goals from last year’s Action Agenda on local jobs, land use, affordability and green space.
- Share your story to help shape ours!

Interpretation, childcare and light snacks will be provided. For more information and to RSVP, please contact Mashael Majid at 617-776-5931 ext. 228 or mmajid@somervillecdc.org.

Check out the Facebook invitation!

Hope to see everyone on February 29th!

Press Release: New Energy Drives Change in Somerville Schools

2012-02-15T11:31:00.000-05:00

Somerville, MA -- Somerville parents and educators, energized by a debate over a recent charter school proposal, have now focused their attention on bringing increased urgency and innovation to their public school system.

The community is embracing innovation with new vigor, aggressively pursuing multiple initiatives to bring ideas, energy, and change to bear on raising performance of their students. Paula Woolley, parent of students in 4th and 12th grades stated, “I’ve worked for many years on school improvement councils and I'm amazed at the level of activity over the past 3 months; parents, teachers and the city are collaborating to pursue new approaches to addressing the challenges in our schools.”

At last Wednesday’s School Committee meeting, Somerville Public Schools Superintendent Tony Pierantozzi announced that teachers at the Winter Hill Community School have eagerly begun discussing the idea of the converting to an Innovation School, and have voted to move forward with submission of an initial prospectus and grant applications to the State and the Gates Foundation for planning and implementation. “The entire district is focused on improving student learning,” stated Pierantozzi. “Innovation Schools are one method to improve performance and I expect at least one to be in place in September 2012.”

While several other elementary schools are also discussing this approach, this new dynamic isn’t limited to just the lower grades. Last week’s meeting also included a proposal for a STEAM (STEM + Arts) virtual school within the high school and a teacher-initiated innovation-school approach to the existing Next Wave/ Full Circle alternative high school. The High School is building on past success, last year, it was named “Innovative School of the Year” by the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council, and recently received a grant from Verizon to upgrade classroom technology.

"Somerville is blessed with enormous talent and many creative ideas," said School Committee chair Paul Bockelman. "Our challenge is to focus efforts on those initiatives that best serve our unique community and prepare all Somerville students for success.” Somerville Teachers Association (STA) President Jackie Lawrence also noted, “The STA is excited that teachers will have a voice in the design of programs that will meet the needs of all students.”

Progress Together for Somerville (PTS), a group focused on city-wide education issues, has taken the lead in advocating for school improvement across the community. The group has reached into every corner of the city to build its membership and has multiple initiatives underway, including an education forum scheduled for mid-March. Ruth Ronen, a parent and active PTS member, stated: "We want great schools that work for all students in our unique community, and the recent initiatives are very exciting. We have an amazing pool of talent in the city and resources from the world’s top universities; there's no reason why Somerville can’t become one of the Commonwealth's top-performing urban districts.” Taking advantage of many aspects of school reform introduced by the state, the Somerville Public Schools and families are proving that a “traditional” public school system can think outside the box when challenged to do so.

Progress Together for Somerville is an independent, grass-roots organization of parents that advocates for exceptional public education for all students in Somerville.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES CONTACT: Michael Chiu, Progress Together for Somerville
(617-501-4714; michael.a.chiu@gmail.com)

Have You Registered to Vote? Today is the Last Day for Presidential Primary!

2012-02-15T08:00:00.002-05:00

The last day to register to vote for the March 6th Presidential Primary is Wednesday, February 15, 2012, by 8:00 PM. For more information about voting in Somerville, check out the elections page on the City's website!

Here is a list of Election quick links...

How to apply for an absentee ballot

Voter Registration Information

Address Lookup to Find Polling Place

Polling Places

MBTA Hearing on Fare Hikes & Service Cuts Scheduled for February 28th

2012-02-14T10:00:00.020-05:00

The MBTA recently announced some fare hikes and service cuts in an attempt to gain control of their growing budget deficit that is totaling over $100 million. The MBTA has offered two "scenarios" with the second "scenario" including significant cuts to Somerville. You are needed at a February 28th meeting to voice your concerns!

One major cut that is featured in both "scenarios" is to cut Commuter Rail service after 10pm and on the weekends. With the delay of the Green Line, Congressman Mike Capuano encouraged the city of Somerville to take extra Commuter Rail stops as a temporary fix while the State figures out how it's going to fund the Green Line-which it is what it is legally obligated to deliver. With announced cuts to this rail, however, it does not seem to be the best option for Somerville and, specifically, the economic improvement to squares that are being forced to depend upon the MBTA.

Tuesday, Feb 28, 6-8 pm

Somerville High School Auditorium

81 Highland Ave (map)

The cuts in "Scenario 2" to Somerville bus lines include:
Bus 80: Serves Tufts University, Ball Square, Winter Hill, and McGrath Highway. Under the MBTA's "scenario 2," this route would be eliminated.

Bus 85: Serves Spring Hill and Union Square in Somerville on its way to Kendall/MIT Station. Under the MBTA's "scenario 2," this route would be eliminated on weekdays.

Bus 90: Serves Davis Square, Highland Avenue and East Somerville on its way to Sullivan Station and Wellington Station. Under "scenario 2," this route would be completely eliminated.

Bus 92: Serves the Assembly Square Mall area and heads into downtown Boston. Under "scenario 2," service would be eliminated on weekdays and Saturday.

Bus 95: Serves the Ten Hills neighborhood along Mystic Avenue and connects Medford to Sullivan Station. Under the proposal, this route would be eliminated.

Bus 96: Serves Tufts University, College Avenue and Davis Square on its way to Harvard Square. Under the proposal, this route would be eliminated.

Under the MBTA's "scenario 1," Somerville would not face reductions to bus service.

Fares under the MBTA's "scenario 1" would be as follows:
Bus: $2.25 with Charlie Ticket, $1.75 with Charlie Card
Subway: $3 with Charlie Ticket, $2.40 with Charlie Card
Bus pass: $55
Link Pass: $80

Fares under the MBTA's "scenario 2" would be as follows:
Bus: $2 with Charlie Ticket, $1.50 with Charlie Card
Subway: $3 with Charlie Ticket, $2.25 with Charlie Card
Bus pass: $48
Link Pass: $78

Scenario 1: Senior bus rate would be $1.10 from $0.40 and subway would be $1.50 from $0.60. Monthly pass would be $40 from $20.

Scenario 2: Senior bus rate would be $0.75 from $0.40 and subway would be $1.10 from $0.60. Monthly pass would be $39 from $20.

Scenario 1: Students bus rate would be $1.10 from $0.60 and subway would be $1.50 from $0.85. Monthly pass would be $40 from $20.

Scenario 2: Students bus rate would be $0.75 from $0.60 and subway would be $1.10 from $0.85. Monthly pass would be $39 from $20.

O'Donovan, Gewirtz Caution Residents Regarding Water Insurance Document

2012-02-13T20:39:00.001-05:00

Water Line Insurance Document recently sent to residents

At Thursday's Board of Alderman meeting, an order submitted by Ward 5 Alderman Sean O'Donovan and Ward 6 Alderman Rebekah Gewirtz cautions residents, especially senior citizens, about a water insurance mailing that is being sent to Somervillians that resembles an official letter from the City.

Alderman Sean O'Donovan pointed out that residents can buy the water line insurance if they want to, but it is NOT REQUIRED by the city of Somerville. The legislative item reads: That this Board’s Committee on Senior Services and the city's Communications Dept. Take measures to caution the residents of Somerville, especially senior citizens, to thoroughly read and understand any information sent to them by private vendors regarding water line insurance, so as not to confuse such mailings as being from the City of Somerville; AND BE IT FURTHER ORDERED That the City Solicitor coordinate with the State's Attorney General, Insurance Commission, and Better Business Bureau to insure the legitimacy of these offers, and to secure refunds for residents if they are not legitimate.

See video of conversation.

Alderman Gewirtz was outraged by the mailing and even commented how the font and setup of the document looked "official" and deceiving.

Please note that the Council on Aging has been notified and this will be the topic of conversation during a breakfast in March. Also, this may result in a reverse 311 phone call by the city.

YSAG Finally Gets Their Chance To Talk Traffic and Parking

2012-02-13T10:00:00.002-05:00

The Young Somerville Advisory Committee will be meeting with the Director of Traffic and Parking, Matt Dias, this Wednesday at the TAB Building located at 167 Holland Street, Somerville 2nd floor. This meeting was originally scheduled for their January date, however, a Finance Committee meeting pulled Dias away for the night-the meeting was then rescheduled for February.

Since taking over, Dias (a Magoun Square resident) has been diligently making the department more efficient and boasts such improvements as a new website, physical changes to the reception area of the Holland Street office including an information desk, the addition of a fifth customer service window, ticket queuing system. Reach out to the community includes new radar feedback signs along roadways in several areas throughout the city (one of which was at the Lowell Street bridge) and the installation of pay-by-space parking kiosks and single space meters that accept credit cards. Most recently, the City announced that the T&P department would accept major credit cards for payment at the Holland Street office, as well as, online.

Matt has also been working in close conjunction with Magoun Square business owners and genuinely interested residents/patrons on ways to improve the parking situation in the square-one of the major reasons that business has declined in the district in the past couple of years.

In typical YSAG form, a survey has been created to provide the moderators of the meeting with agenda topics and to provide the guest with feedback. Whether you plan to attend the meeting or not, please fill out the survey with your Traffic and Parking answers, suggestions, and comments!

Mayor Makes Good On Bet...

2012-02-10T12:41:00.000-05:00

Mayor Joe Curtatone walked into last night's Board of Alderman in a Giant's jersey per a bet he made with the Mayor of Somerville, NJ.