Mayor Katjana Ballantyne invites all Somerville residents ages 12 and older to vote in the city’s second cycle of Participatory Budgeting. Voting is open now through April 30 and residents will help decide how to invest $1 million in community-generated projects to improve Somerville.

April 5, 1967 – March 30, 2025

Daniel E. Mosher, known to many as Danny, passed away suddenly on March 30, 2025, at the age of 57. Born in Somerville, he was the cherished son of Carol R. Margey (Ivester) and the late Wayne K. Mosher. Danny was also the beloved brother of the late Kelly Mosher. He leaves behind his loyal dog and best pal, Bandit, along with many cousins and friends who will miss him dearly. Danny’s memorial service will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Danny’s name to Great Dog Recue of New England https://gdrne.com/donate/ 

By Jeffrey Shwom

Positive, welcoming, and supportive, with gym dog Barli close by. These words do not define many folks’ previous experiences with fitness spaces. Luckily, Shannon Walsh, Owner of Expansive Strength & Fitness on Cedar Street, and two other trainers who rent her space, create that environment and more. Shannon sat down with The Somerville Times to talk about her “haven where fitness meets inclusivity, laughter, and a profound sense of well-being.”

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

By Michael Carlson

As the Somernova development barrels toward approval in Somerville, Mass., with the promise of transforming a quiet industrial campus into 1.6 million square feet of commercial, research, and so-called innovation space, it’s worth asking a basic question—Who is this for?

In recognition that on this third annual Somerville Civic Day celebration that some residents, including Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, are also planning to attend the pro-rights protest in Boston on Saturday, the timing of Civic Day is shifting to a later start. The community is invited to attend the city’s spring Civic Day celebration on Saturday, April 5, from 1 to 4 p.m. on the City Hall concourse at 93 Highland Avenue (rain or cold weather location is inside Somerville High School near front entrance). Previously the event was planned to start at noon. 

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

As the weather starts getting nicer, something is in the air. You can take a breath and smell optimism. The city is buzzing. Ahead of us are beaches, camping, baseball and generally enjoying the outdoors. Many road races, outdoor festivals, and summer recreational programs are coming up.

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne signed a proclamation declaring April 2 as “Start by Believing Day” in the City of Somerville, affirming the City’s commitment to supporting survivors of sexual violence and fostering a community where everyone feels safe, heard, and believed. The proclamation marks the launch of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in Somerville. 

By Jeffrey Shwom

The City Council continues to work on a city ordinance that would increase city councilors, school committee members and the mayor’s salary “by the percentage of the most recent annual cost-of-living percentage adjustment received by non-union city personnel.”