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Last week radio talk host Michael Graham of 96.9 FM sponsored a free seminar for anyone wishing to run for public office. This was the second seminar in less then a month, both filled to capacity, standing room only, and several Somerville residents were present, as well as some Medford residents who are looking at the possibility of running for various offices. What was also interesting was that he had both Democratic and Republican strategists there to give the seminar and encourage everyone to get involved. Two Somerville residents that attended, to be named at a later date, were very excited about the seminar.

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The bad news here in the 'Ville was that as of March 1st at Ames Envelope, the first round of layoffs were sent notices and the closing is moving forward. What once was a place that hired several hundreds of Somerville residents will now be moved to Wisconsin and a "Rock climbing company" will move in – we wonder how many hundreds of Somerville residents will be given a job there? This just speaks to our political figures at the statehouse NOT focusing in on the important issues of private sector jobs and how to keep them here. Nope, not our legislators, they're too busy having hearings on making it illegal for parents to stop them from having there newborn male children circumcised. We need candidates to run against our so-called "Progressive" (we know what's best for you) legislators don't we?

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Recently passing up in NH was a friend to many here in Somerville, former Alderman at Large Paul Haley, who was elected in 1971 from a field of 29 candidates. Paul and his family were very popular here in the 'Ville back in the 70's. Paul, fresh out of college and at that point a lifelong resident, joined a field of 29 candidates to run and get elected in 1971. He led one of the first campaigns here in Somerville that was considered "new" and he was one of a few of the day to be called an activist/liberal. Such people who were close friends and supporters here in Somerville were Ald. Jack Connolly, former Ald. John McKenna, former School Committeemen Celia Courtney-Taylor, Atty. Ed White (deceased), Jack O'Neil and our own Donald Norton. Our condolences to his wife Barbette and his family, he was and inspiration for many here in his day.

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Rumor has it that Governors Councilor Mike Callahan may not be running for re-election next time around. Mike has served on the Council now for more than 10 years.

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Mayor Curtatone and Frank Senesi, Director of Veterans Services present the "Memorial Day Parade Committee Fundraiser" at the Somerville High auditorium on Friday March 19th at 7pm – the cost is $20.00 for the event, which as always, will have live entertainment: a Tribute to Frank Sinatra & Liza Minnelli.

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Don't forget this Sunday on the 14th the "Ras na hEireann" / USA (The Irish / USA road race) in Davis Square at 11am.

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Somerville Little League needs your support! They are looking for sponsors to support the Somerville Little League and letting prospective sponsors know that they are going back to putting the names of the sponsoring companies on the player's jerseys. Donations of any amount from anyone are always welcomed, for information go directly to their web site at www.somervillelittleleague.org

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Somerville Lions is doing their part and has donated the use of their clubhouse for a few days to the Census Bureau for their upcoming training sessions that will be taking place soon here in the 'Ville. Census participation is important to the community and everyone should be counted!

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Speaking of the Lions Club, they will be holding their annual St. Patrick's Dinner at the Mt. Vernon Restaurant on Tuesday, March 16th at 6pm – great food and entertainment for all – current members as well as those who might want to possibly join this lively group of local businesspeople. For more details about the event or how to join the Lions Club, contact Club President, our own Billy Tauro – at 617-293-2016 or email him at somervillelionsclub@yahoo.com.

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A big happy birthday greeting goes out to Christina Nardella who turns 90 years old this week! Christina is a wonderful woman and a good friend of our Newstalkers here in the Ville as well as Cambridge.