Procession from City Hall steps off at 11:30 a.m.; Ceremony at Prospect Hill Noon-1 p.m.

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Museum will kick off the New Year on Thursday, January 1, 2026, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the first-flag “Grand Union” flag-raising. A procession led by “George Washington” will leave from the City Hall Concourse at 11:30 a.m. and head to Prospect Hill, and all are invited to join in. The annual ceremony at Prospect Hill Park features a history-filled speaking program from 12 noon to 1 p.m.

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By Mayor Katjana Ballantyne

When I took office in 2022, Somerville was still emerging from the worst of the pandemic while navigating the host of pressures facing most cities across the nation: housing instability, growing need for services, aging infrastructure, and the urgency of climate change. But as I rallied my administration to meet these needs, I also saw the opportunity to build a more inclusive, equitable city where everyone can thrive – at its core, we were seeking progress for all.

Plans for the McGrath Boulevard project were recently discussed during a virtual design public hearing. — Photo by Bobbie Toner

By The Times Staff

The long-awaited and much-anticipated McGrath Boulevard project that aims to transform Route 28 from an elevated highway to a ground-level boulevard is expected to move forward as planned after a virtual design public hearing convened on December 9.

The staff of The Somerville Times would like to wish everyone a very happy New Year. May the year to come bring one and all good health and prosperity, and continue through to the following years to come.

Free shuttles will run between overflow lots, Somerville High School, and the Armory

The City of Somerville is sharing travel and parking information to help attendees plan ahead for the 2026 Inauguration Ceremony at Somerville High School and the public reception at the Somerville Armory on Saturday, January 3.

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I always have lentils in the pantry for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This soup is a perfect accompaniment to a hearty salad and some crusty bread.

Looking back on the year just passed is an interesting thing to do. Sometimes sobering, at other times amusing, yet always somewhat inspiring if one considers what has been accomplished and what else is left to be done.

The advance of progress and renewal marches on as we in turn continue the pursuit of our individual hope and dreams.

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A  H A N D P I C K E D P O E M

presented by Off the Shelf Correspondent Michael T Steffen