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.

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As the publisher for the Ibbetson Street Press, I am glad that we are going to release a book of poetry titled Reverberations by former Medford Poet Laureate and New England Poetry Club advisory board member Vijaya Sundaram. I caught up recently with Sundaram for an interview.

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Somerville poet Jesse Diamond delivers a poem she wrote 40 years ago.

I recently toured the Tandem Vet Care facility with my wife, Christelle, at the invitation of CEO Prem Sharma and his wife, Elizabeth Bisio. We were both impressed by the care, professionalism, and thoughtful design of the facility.