Being stuck indoors does not have to be a gloomy situation for families who exercise a little imagination and make an effort for having fun.

On rainy days, it can be tempting to hand children devices and let them fall down a YouTube rabbit hole. After all, there can be a lot of hours to fill when the weather isn’t cooperating with your weekend plans.

There are better ways to spend those rainy days. With a little creativity, rainy days can be opportunities for fun and educational play.

Arrests:
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 Adelson Fedna, of Medford, March 9, 8:17 a.m., arrested at Broadway on a warrant charge of assault with a dangerous weapon.

Christopher Macinnes, of Medford, March 10, 9:28 p.m., arrested at Broadway on charges of attempt to commit a crime, defacing property, and possession of a burglarious instrument.

— Photos by Claudia Ferro and Peter Lancaster

The sights in the city this week ranged from desolate to bustling, as schools shut down and a run on goods in stores ensued, all in response to the coronavirus situation.

By Jim Clark

Somerville Police officers were dispatched to the coin operated laundry at 740 Broadway last week on reports of a man and a woman attempting to break into a locked bathroom in the establishment.

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

When you ask Somerville’s social network a question they really come through. You didn’t think I remembered all that stuff from the old days by myself? Actually, I do remember quite a lot, some I can’t print, but I need some help occasionally.

On Tuesday, March 17, the following open letter was sent to Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker by several local and regional elected officials:

Governor Baker:

As state and municipal officials, we are calling on you to issue an order to Shelter In Place by the end of the day today, Tuesday, March 17, 2020.

A sign of the times. Social distancing is the new norm. — Photo by Doug Holder

By Jim Clark

As the world at large grapples with the coronavirus emergency, our own local efforts at quelling the advance of the deadly illness has taken shape as the city’s leadership steps up and issues its calls to action.

It has been an almost daily drama, with updated directives and advisories overtaking those issued in some cases only hours earlier.

Councilor At-Large designee, Kristen Strezo. — Photo by Isabel Sami

By Isabel Sami

Kristen Strezo, the newest appointed City Councilor At-Large in Somerville, has always wanted to be a voice of the people. Previously the co-chair of the Somerville Commission for Women, Strezo spent her two terms advocating for women’s rights and safety in the community. As a mother of two kids and a caregiver to her 93-year-old grandmother, Strezo says she wants what’s best for residents and their families, saying she’s committed to the overall improvement of Somerville as a city and unified community that belongs to everyone.

We here at The Times hope that everyone out there is staying safe and following the social distancing guidelines to keep this coronavirus threat at the lowest level possible. Please check in on your neighbors and help anyone that might not be able to get out and go to the store.