The good people of Properzi Manor, 13-25 Warren Avenue, Somerville, have been busy little elves working hard to make this area, both inside and outside, the Christmas fantasy patrons have enjoyed throughout the many years, passing on from generation to generation the Christmas holiday joy that goes on long after the holiday season and into the next coming year. Waving their wands of wonder so Santa can work his magic at the appropriate time are the master crafts of Wizard Elves Bob Donovan and Andy Levesque, whose tools bring excitement to all ages.

– William Tauro

By Jim Clark

A reported shoplifting incident brought police to the Sports Authority store on Middlesex Ave. last week.

Responding officers were told by the store’s loss prevention personnel that a woman, later identified as Jean Larosa, 56, had been spotted placing articles of clothing from the store into a bag and that she attempted to leave the store without paying. She was detained by security and held until police arrived.

Income-eligible households may apply for interest-free heating system replacement loan

Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and Housing Director Dana LeWinter announced today that the Housing Division of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development is currently accepting applications for the Heating System Replacement Program. The program supplies interest-free loans of up to $4,500 to replace a faulty or inefficient heating system for owner-occupant homeowners. Loan eligibility is based on total gross income for the household, as well as number of residents.  The loans are interest-free and may be forgivable after three years provided that the home remains the homeowner’s primary residence.

Meet Charlie Bubbles – the book, that is, as actor/author Paul Carafotes brings a fantasy world to life.

‘The Adventures of Charlie Bubbles’ hits the bookshelves
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By Jim Clark

Somerville born and raised actor Paul Carafotes is no stranger to the creative process. His highly successful career in film and television has led him down many paths in the entertainment industry. His latest endeavor, however, breaks new ground for him as he offers up a children’s book, The Adventures of Charlie Bubbles.

The City’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place tonight, December 6 at 5:30 p.m. on the City Hall Concourse, followed by a meet and greet with Santa Claus in the Somerville High School Highlander Café (atrium entrance). For the first time, this event will also include a ceremonial lighting of a Hanukkah Menorah, which will remain on the concourse throughout the season.

It’s time for DARBI’s annual December Midnight Madness shopping event. A collection of Davis Square retail shops and restaurants will be offering exclusive sales and deals – don’t miss out! The event takes place Thursday,  Dec. 6, 6pm-midnight.

By Jim Clark

Police responded to a reported robbery occurring at 532 Medford St. last Sunday evening.

The alleged victim, a driver for Green Cab in Somerville, reportedly told police that he had picked up a fare at Franklin and pearl Streets and proceeded to the passenger’s requested destination in Medford.

A recent engineering study found the high school building in need of extensive repairs. – Photo courtesy of the Maguire Group

Task Force to review options for aging high school
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By Elizabeth Sheeran

Those who envision a new high school building in Somerville’s future could be one step closer to getting their wish. The mayor last week formed a task force to look at long-term possibilities for Somerville High School facilities, and all options are on the table.

Thursday night, December 6 is the monthly After Business Hours for the Somerville Chamber of Commerce. This month it’s at the Center for the Arts at the Armory, 191 Highland Avenue, 5-7 p.m. Free appetizers, excellent networking, free business card drawing, and cash bar. Guests are welcome to bring unwrapped Toys of Local Children. RSVP to smackey@somervillechamber.org

By Joseph A. Curtatone

(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.)

With the cheery arrival of the holidays each year, we all must face one dreaded, simple, unfortunate truth: the fall sports season has reached its end. But rather than sulking, let’s instead celebrate a team of young, local young athletes who proved their mettle on the field this season. Somerville really did have itself a soccer team this year. And boy, did they go deep.