(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 State Rep. Christine Barber

Right now, we are facing tremendous threats – to our communities, economy, and our democracy. Like many of you, I have been struggling since the federal election to address these challenges. The last few weeks have escalated our fears of deportations of immigrants who have not committed crimes, of threats against transgender youth, and of a loss of federal funding for critical programs. I am angry about the dangerous decisions being made in Washington, many of which will have very real impacts on our communities. This is a scary moment for so many, but it is also a time to harness our local strengths and channel them into action.

Operators of both The Burren and Dragon Pizza will be opening new establishments in the near future. — Photos by Bobbie Toner

By Jeffrey Shwom

While discussions of new housing, possible business displacement, and the changing face of Davis Square continue, two Davis Square owner groups are broadening their brands into adjacent neighborhoods. The Burren’s owners soon will open their third restaurant and music venue, McCarthy’s and Toad, while Dragon Pizza owners are creating The Hollows in Teele Square.

By Lexi O’Neil

Last Wednesday, February 19, the Somerville City Council Rodent Committee reconvened to discuss the concerns surrounding SGARs and what can be done to continue their efforts in eradicating a long-standing rodent problem that affects the residents of Somerville. Though great success has been made in the last few years, efforts are still being made to eliminate harmful rodenticides while also encouraging Somerville residents to continue calling in with their rodent concerns.

(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 Mayor Katjana Ballantyne

I know many in Somerville have been watching the national news with a mix of disgust and distress. Prices continue to rise, and economic stability and critical systems and alliances appear threatened. Our federal government is actively reintroducing systemic bigotry of minority and marginalized groups. The new administration also seems fine with making life harder for people already living at the frayed end of the wage scale – or, really, all of us in the 99%. I wish I could tell you they’re going to stop, but there’s no indication they will. This is why where you live matters more than ever.

Preserving Black History: Somerville Museum Panel. RSJ and the Somerville Museum invite you to a thought-provoking panel discussion on the impact of Black history on arts and culture and the importance of preserving Black narratives in our community. Hear from community organizers, activists, and city library staff as they share insights and experiences. Light refreshments will be served. How to Join: bit.ly/BHM_2025 or email rsj@somervillema.gov for more details.

In the next step toward Accreditation, eight outside educators will conduct an on-site Decennial Accreditation visit at Somerville High School beginning on April 13 through April 16. The purpose of the Accreditation visit is to assess the school’s alignment with the New England Association of Schools and Colleges’ (NEASC) Standards for Accreditation.

Eagle Feathers #323 – Queen of the Air – Heart of the Ocean

By Bob (Monty) Doherty

From above, it looks like an island in the middle of a body of water, not unlike a footprint of a modern castle surrounded by a moat. From the shore, it looks like an airport with its conning tower protruding high into the air where operators have a great 360° vista. It was completed in 1966 and was built in Somerville at the intersection of the Mystic and Malden Rivers. Its construction improved navigation and recreation along the waterfront, but its main purpose was to protect against flooding…flooding that could do damage to any of the 22 communities in the mystic river watershed under the right circumstances. Upstream, you will find freshwater rivers, lakes, brooks, and streams. Downriver, it flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The flavor of the ocean and air are highly fitting in the design of this complex because it is Amelia Earhart Mystic River Dam and basin.

If there is one invaluable resource that all city residents can appreciate and be proud of, it is the Somerville Parks and Recreation Department.

They operate year-round programs throughout the city’s public facilities, playgrounds, schoolyards, and various other locations to promote positive and healthy activities for all members of the Somerville Community, in particular our kids.

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I recently hooked up with Somerville artists Cara Giaimo, Lena Warnke, Martha Schnee, Hava Horowitz, a band of friends who experiment with music, performance, and zine publishing.

They call themselves “sidebody.” They are part of the fabric of Somerville, MA, the “Paris of New England.”