The challenge has been issued and the responses have thundered forth. Mayor Curtatone’s adamant and eloquent rebuke of Cambridge City Councillor Ken Reeves’ assertion that his town is more “interesting” than Somerville has sparked a considerable amount of civic pride and community solidarity here in the ‘Ville.

We may be biased, but we think the mayor has ably accomplished what many would consider an absolute dismantling of Mr. Reeves’ position, citing several points that should convince any dispassionate outside observer of Somerville’s superiority in the category of “interesting” townships. Impartiality may not be easy to come by in these matters, but we should feel no shame in sticking up for our community. This sort of rivalry can actually bring out the best in all of us.

Despite the obvious political showmanship at work here, a little friendly competition can easily prove to be a healthy thing. Especially when it tends to draw us closer together, united in a common cause: our commitment to the defense and promotion of the place where we love to live, work, and play.

And now, on with the show.