The Somerville Times

Somerville educators hold rally to demand mayor fully fund public schools

On May 14, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

Concerned members of the community joined in a rally last Wednesday calling for more funding for Somerville Schools.

Hundreds of educators, caregivers, students, and community members gathered outside of East Somerville Community School on Wednesday before a hearing on the school budget to call on Mayor Katjana Ballantyne to increase her funding proposal for Somerville Public Schools.

Holly Simione announces campaign for Somerville City Council At Large

On May 14, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

Holly Simione

Family Advocate and Counselor Seeks to Be a Voice on the Council for Those Not Heard

Human Service worker Holly Simione formally announced her campaign for one of the four Somerville City Council At Large seats in the upcoming election this fall, 2025. Simione, who is the Chairperson of the Somerville Commission for Persons with Disabilities Commission, also served as the Governor appointed member (and former Chair) of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council. She is a native-born Somerville resident, a graduate of Somerville High School, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Lesley College.

Home Fries

On May 14, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

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Whenever I’m entertaining and oven roasted potatoes are on the menu, I always try to make a little extra. I love repurposing potatoes for home fries. It’s a real time saver in the morning. I originally tossed the diced potatoes in olive oil, salt, pepper and dried parsley and roasted in the oven until soft and crispy.

Our View of the Times – May 14

On May 14, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

This year’s installment of PorchFest hit the city this past weekend. Those who have, in the past, taken notice of the event – and it is an event that is rather difficult not to notice – usually have fairly strong opinions of approval or distaste for the goings on.

For the uninitiated, PorchFest invites local musicians to give something of an informal concert outside their homes, either on a front or back porch, yard, garden, etc.

Somerville through the eyes of Denise

On May 14, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

Trees and shadows… — Photo by Denise Provost

Poet/Translator/Videographer Nidia Hernandez finds a Haven in America

On May 14, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

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By New England Poetry Club board member Doug Holder

I first met Nidia Hernandez at a meeting of the literary group, the “Bagel Bards,” that was then housed in the basement of the Panera Bread in Porter Square, Cambridge. She had recently arrived from Venezuela and was already in a frenzy of activities for the poetry community. Right off the bat, she recorded the poetry of many of our members and seemed to bring the high holy to our work.

Lyrical Somerville – May 14

On May 14, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

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Ed Meek writes poetry, fiction, articles and book reviews. His new book of poems, High Tide, came out in 2020. Luck, short stories, came out in 2017. He has been published in The Boston Globe Magazine, The Boston Review, The Sun, The Paris Review, and Plume. He writes book reviews for Digboston and The Arts Fuse.

Obituary: Christine Lyons

On May 13, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

July 24, 1973 – May 11, 2025

Christine Lyons, age 51, beloved mother of Taylor and Hailey Pefine, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Sunday, May 11. Born on July 24, 1973, in Waltham, Massachusetts, Christine was the beloved daughter of Valarie “Joanne” and Robert P. Lyons Jr. of Somerville. She was the cherished sister of Jill Lyons, Cathleen Lyons, Shaun Lyons and his better half Kristen Cascetta, and the late Robert P. Lyons III. Christine was the loving aunt of Chloe, Cameron, Hayden, Robert IV, Nicholas, Jackson, and Preston. She also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Ward 7 City Councilor Judy Pineda Neufeld announces she will resign June 30

On May 13, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

I’m writing today with some personal news: after deep reflection and heartfelt conversations with my family, I have decided to resign from the City Council effective June 30, and not seek reelection this fall. I will stay on through budget season, ensuring our ward has a voice and vote on next year’s budget.

Kitty Connection, Inc. awarded grant from “I’m Animal Friendly” license plate funds

On May 13, 2025, in Latest News, by The Somerville Times

Kitty Connection, Inc. is happy to announce it has received a 2025 grant from the Massachusetts “I’m Animal Friendly” license plate program. Funds will be used towards Kitty Connection’s low-cost spay and neuter services.