(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 Azra Rahim

In 2023, I was embraced by a supportive, compassionate community of storytellers, people who, like me, want to improve the lives of children through the stories we write. In this community, I found celebrated authors and editors, and newbies like me who aspire to change the world through the power of the pen. Another such newbie was my friend, Rumeysa Ozturk. Everyone who got to know Rumeysa through this circle loved her presence. One of these storytellers said that Rumeysa is, “the sweetest, softest and kindest soul.”

By Carlie Lombardi

On March 27, the Somerville City Council convened for a four-hour session addressing several critical issues, including racial disparities in city contracts, accessibility failures, affordable housing, and the approval of a new city charter. The meeting focused on the city’s ongoing efforts to create a more accountable, inclusive, and responsive local government.

— Photos courtesy of Somernova

On March 26, Somernova’s 4th Annual Women’s History Month Celebration brought the community together to celebrate the incredible achievements of women throughout history.

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville staff invite you to Somerville’s third annual Civic Day. Come learn about city services and local government via free activities, and enjoy local eats and entertainment on Saturday, April 5, from noon to 4 p.m. at City Hall (93 Highland Ave.) and on the City Hall concourse. In the event of inclement weather, all outdoor activities will be moved inside to Somerville High School (81 Highland Ave.). To learn more, visit somerville-ma.gov/civicday.

This is a great dish to make for a group of people or just packaging up the leftovers for lunch for the week. It can be served with grilled chicken, a ribeye steak or even grilled shrimp. The options are limitless.

It’s not just another three-day weekend, folks. It’s a huge part of our national – and regional – heritage.

Patriots’ Day was established over 100 years ago to commemorate the Battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775, the first battles of the American Revolutionary War. Re-enactments are staged and speeches are given, and a generally festive air of patriotic zeal pervades.

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Recently, the Ibbetson Street Press of Somerville, MA. published an anthology of Arlington Poets, titled The Silver Note: Poets of Arlington, Massachusetts. I spoke with one of the editors of this book, Jean Flanagan. Flanagan is the poet laureate of Arlington, MA, and is an accomplished poet and publisher.

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Emily (Pineau) Lacey’s poetry has appeared in The Bluebird Word, The Raven’s Perch, Evening Street Review, and elsewhere. She holds an MFA in creative writing from Solstice’s MFA program at Pine Manor College.

One Somerville, Every Child: ‘Week of the Young Child’ April 5, 2024 through April 11, 2025

 Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Superintendent Rubėn Carmona, and Somerville’s early childhood community invite Somerville caregivers, children, and educators to celebrate the Week of the Young Child from April 5 to 11, 2025.