By Dennis Fischman

Sheriff Walt Longmire of Absaroka County, Wyoming, is a melancholy man, despite flashes of humor that illuminate him and his best friend, Henry Standing Bear, at intervals like desert lightning. It’s not clear to me why every woman he meets either wants to be his lover or his mother – but I frequently question fictional women’s taste in men, especially in mysteries.

City accepting applications for one vacancy

The City of Somerville is seeking one new member to join the Mayor’s Appointments Advisory Committee (AAC). If you care about fairness, transparency, and community voice in local government, this is a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Somerville Public Schools is planning expansive changes in its usage of multiple media platforms.

By Harry Kane

The Communications Department at Somerville Public Schools is making some changes in the new year with the launch of a print newspaper, a new strategy for social media integration, the rebuilding of the SPS website, and much more.

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

Before all the electronics and video games that the kids today enjoy, toys were pretty simple.

Today, a child’s Christmas list looks very different than back in the day. My sister loved her Chatty Cathy doll and her Easy Bake Oven. One year, I got a Mr. Potato Head that you actually used real potatoes or other vegetables with.

Serving twelve years in municipal public office and decades of community organizing, McLaughlin seeks to bring focus on affordability to the State House

Matt McLaughlin, Ward 1 City Councilor in Somerville, announced his candidacy for State Senator of the Second Middlesex District. Matt is ready to continue the legacy of progressive leadership championed by State Senator Pat Jehlen, who has served the region with integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment for decades.

This year saw an increase in numerous violation types 2,875 violations were related to residential trash. — Photo by Bobbe Toner

By Jordan Pagkalinawan

 The Rodent Issues Special Committee convened on December 1 to hear from the Inspectional Services Department’s Environmental Health Coordinator, Alicia Privett, and Environmental Health Manager Colin Zeigler, who updated councilors on the latest rodent control practices around Somerville.

The goals for Somerville’s climate action plan were reaffirmed by the City Council at their latest meeting.

By Harry Kane

The Somerville City Council reaffirmed its support for Somerville’s climate action plan that aims to deal with coastal and stormwater flooding, extreme heat events, and other escalating consequences of human-caused climate change that may endanger life and property.

Low-income households may be eligible to receive help with winter heating costs through the Home Energy Assistance Program. This program serves residents of Somerville and Cambridge. Participants receive assistance with their heating costs between November 1 and April 30. Learn more about the program, check if you qualify, and apply for assistance today at somerville-ma.gov/heatingassistance.

— Photos by Bobbie Toner

The Christmas Tree Lighting on the City Hall Concourse took place on Thursday, December 4. Santa Claus was escorted by the Somerville Fire Department, making his grand entrance atop a shiny red fire truck. After the tree lighting, attendees headed over to the Somerville High School cafeteria for a meet-and-greet with Santa Claus and light refreshments. All children who attended received a special gift from Santa.