The city honored SSEPAC with a special citation at its latest meeting, acknowledging the tremendous job the organization does in supporting the student population in the community.

By The Times Staff

The journey of nurturing children with special needs starts with inclusion.

The Somerville Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SSEPAC) received a citation for its steadfast commitment and dedication to defending the rights of Somerville student learners.

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

The Enchanted Village at Jordan Marsh, which had been there since the 1940s, closed in 1972. It reopened again at Jordan’s Furniture in Avon in 1990. Here are some memories of the wonderful Christmas tradition. The animatronic vintage Christmas-themed scenes are part of my childhood holiday memories. The following recollections are from those who remember those magical visits to The Enchanted Village.

Seven promotions for the Somerville Fire Department took place at the City Council meeting on Thursday, December 11. The promotions included one Deputy Chief, one District Chief, two Captains, and three Lieutenants. The new officers are Deputy Chief Steven Mauras, District Chief Marc Ardolino, Captains Jay McKenzie and Andrew Patriquin, and Lieutenants Nicholas Halloran, Raymond Busi, and Ronald Hampton.

The long-awaited partial demolition of the old Star Market building took place last week, with crowds gathering to cheer on the activities. — Photo by Bobbie Toner

By Jeffrey Shwom

The first pieces of roofing at a former Star Market came down Saturday, symbolizing the start of a multiyear housing and mixed-use building project on Winter Hill.

(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)

Somerville residents identify their greatest challenge as the struggle to pay escalating housing costs. Our city’s leaders describe this as a “housing crisis.” But since 2020, developers have built something like 3,000 new housing units.

By Jordan Pagkalinawan

As part of its final meeting of the year, the Somerville Finance Committee met on December 9th to approve funding for various city improvement projects, namely the 2026 Street Resurfacing Program, as well as several monetary and property gifts. The committee also heard updates on recent funding cuts and a potential requirement to cooperate with immigration authorities as part of future Urban and Safety Initiative (UASI) grants.

The publishers, staff, and everyone associated with The Somerville Times wish one and all a very Happy Holiday, Merry Christmas, and Happy Hanukkah, as well as a prosperous and healthy New Year in 2026.

— Photos by Bobbie Toner

The City of Somerville hosted a festive Menorah lighting in front of City Hall on Monday, December 15. Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, City Councilor at-Large Kristen Strezo, along with Rabbi Eliana, led everyone in a joyous community event with singing, dancing, Chanukah treats, and special gifts for children. Community members of all ages braved the cold to attend the special event.

Eagle Feathers #344 – Out of Many, One

By Bob (Monty) Doherty

Most people realize that Somerville is and always has been a land of immigrants. If you didn’t come from a foreign country, then your ancestors probably did. Early on they came here in what was called the great migration, which took place during the 1620’s and 1630’s. Governor John Winthrop and his Puritan followers were looking for the “pot of gold” at the end of the rainbow … freedom of life and religion.

The holidays can be a pain for a lot of people. It is especially difficult this year as we all contend with the challenges that we have dealt with lately.

But when it comes to this time of year, the headaches should really serve as a reminder of the importance of why the daily routine should come to a grinding halt sometimes for a greater spiritual good.