By William C. Shelton 

(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries of The Somerville News belong solely to the authors of those commentaries and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville News, its staff or publishers.)

In November, Somerville Police and DEA officers executed a search warrant in a quiet residence just down the street from the home that former Police Chief Tony Holloway still owns. They found equipment used to produce methamphetamine hydrochloride and ten 35-gallon drums of chemicals.

By Harry Kane

Teens get off the streets thanks to the Somerville Homeless Coalition’s vigilant efforts to rid the 18-24 year olds of bad habits.

Frank Senesi, Director of Veterans’ Services of Somerville since 2004, retired from his service to the city on December 30. – Photo by Thomas P. Champion/City of Somerville

By Cathleen Twardzik

Frank Senesi, Director of Veterans’ Services of Somerville since 2004, has retired from his service to the city as of December 30, 2011.

“My job is to ensure that all local veterans receive the monetary compensation they’re entitled to, under Chapter 115 of the Massachusetts General Laws.  I also assist veterans in receiving their federal benefits from the Veterans Administration, including their education, disability and medical benefits,” said Senesi.

Aimee Mann will be debuting several new songs from her upcoming new album at The Somerville Theatre on January 19. – Photo by Sheryl Nields.

By Max Sullivan

Aimee Mann is coming to Somerville Theatre on January 19. She’s spent several months in the studio working on a new album, and is just a few tweaks away from its completion.

Joseph A. Curtatone took the oath of office as Mayor of Somerville for the fifth time on Monday night. – Photo by Donald Norton

By Andrew Firestone

In his fifth inauguration, Mayor Joseph Curtatone gave his “State of the City” address, with a feel both optimistic but acknowledging of the challenges ahead. Above all, said Curtatone, was the need to understand Somerville’s place as a highly desirable urban community, and the need to move forward.

– Photos by Donald Norton

Tony Lafuente is bullish on business.

Ward 4 Alderman talks Winter Hill

By Andrew Firestone

There was one new initiation for the Somerville BOA this last Monday, January 2: Tony Lafuente is now Ward 4 Alderman. A Portuguese immigrant, Lafuente is the local business owner of Flagraphics, which he has operated since moving to Somerville in 1987. After running for mayor against Joseph Curtatone in 2003, and Alderman At Large in 2007, Lafuente finally enters the chamber during a crucial juncture for his neighborhood.

Happy New Year from all of us at The News and especially from those of us at Newstalk. Hopefully, 2012 will be the year we see on the road to economic recovery in all fields.  Starting off the New Year here in Somerville was, of course, the First Flag raising ceremony on Prospect Hill this past Sunday. On Monday night the new city government was sworn into office at the High School Auditorium. Let’s hope the city is moving forward in all aspects for us here.

Walter Pero steps into a new role as Director of Veteran Services in Somerville.

By Andrew Firestone

For 15 years, Ward 4 Alderman Walter Pero has served as a voice on the Board of Aldermen. Through this time he battled leukemia, and retook his Ward 4 seat after beating Alderman Jim McCallum in 2003.

Arrests:
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Thomas Harron, 30, of 7 Webster Ave., Woburn, December 27, 1:19 p.m., arrested at Highland Ave. on warrant charges of unregistered motor vehicle, number plate violation, and operation of a motor vehicle with a suspended license.

Jerome Turner, 35, of 15 Fenwood Rd., Boston, December 28, 7:43 p.m., arrested at 282 Somerville Ave. on charges of defacing property, threat to commit crime, and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon.