The publisher and staff of The Somerville Times are deeply saddened by the loss of Donald Norton, who succumbed last week to cancer. Our sincerest condolences go out to all his many friends and family at this time. Donald was the one-time owner of The Times, and in recent years served as its Managing Editor. We are extremely grateful for all the emails and calls from those offering their condolences. He will be missed by all of us here at The Times.

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We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to members of the Somerville City Council for their generous remembrance of Donald and Patricia Norton at their latest regular meeting last Thursday. The Nortons clearly touched many lives and they are as well remembered in the halls of local officialdom as they are by the many friends and family members they leave behind.

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Many have been asking about the future of The Times after the passing of Donald Norton. Donald himself made it clear that he wanted the paper to go on as it had before and to move forward with new ideas and features yet to come. Be assured that we will carry on his legacy and continue to deliver the finest in truly local news and discussion.

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Happy birthday greetings this week to several locals: Happy birthday to former Alderman Maryann Heuston, who is celebrating this week. We’re wishing her a very happy birthday. Happy birthday as well former local Valerie Spinale, who grew up in East Somerville. Happy birthday to Steve Hardy, a great guy who works very hard here in the city and is President of the Somerville City Club. Happy birthday to Naomi Harrison, the great granddaughter of the late Don and Pat Norton. Happy birthday to everyone here and from the city who are celebrating this week, we wish every one of them a very happy birthday.

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The Little Sisters of the Poor are holding their very last Bazaar on Saturday, November 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. They hope to have a large showing in order to continue to support the residents through this transition process and in order to bring a lot of Christmas cheer into the home. Please go out and support this home. They always have great raffles, food and much more. The Little Sisters of the Poor is located at 186 Highland Ave.

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The annual flu vaccine clinics offered by the City of Somerville Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) are back. All clinics offer free flu vaccines for Somerville residents ages three and older (children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian). Clinics start on Thursday, October 17, and will be held at various times and locations in the community until the city’s supply of vaccine is exhausted. Due to limited availability, vaccines will be offered during official flu clinic hours only. While there is no charge for vaccinations, attendees are asked to bring an insurance card if available, including Medicaid cards. Residents requiring additional assistance or other accommodations should contact the Health and Human Services Department at 617-625-6600 ext. 4320. The city will add or adjust clinic schedules as necessary, and the most up to date information can always be found at www.somervillema.gov or by calling 311 (617-666-3311).

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Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and members of the Tufts Partnership Negotiating Committee invite residents to a community meeting on Wednesday, October 30, for an update on the current status of negotiations with Tufts University about a new Partnership Agreement between the city and the university. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at the TAB Building, 167 Holland St. The previous Partnership Agreement expired on June 30, 2018. In addition to Tufts’ Payments in Lieu of Taxes (aka “PILOT payments”), the Partnership Agreement covers issues related to student housing, partnership with Somerville schools, the university’s planning process, and other topics. More information about that process is available at www.somervillema.gov/TuftsPILOT.

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The Kennedy Pool has been undergoing a needed renovation project. The pool re-opened on October 10 with Adult Lap Swim and Family Swim from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Please see the online calendar for the Kennedy pool schedule. They thank everyone for their patience with their endeavor to provide the best possible aquatic environment.

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Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and the City Council invite residents to the Fall 2019 ResiStat Community Meetings, a twice-yearly effort to share the latest city news, data, and neighborhood updates directly with residents and gather their feedback. ResiStat is both a great way to learn more about what’s happening in your neighborhood and around Somerville and a chance to talk with elected officials, city staff, and neighbors. A social half hour before the meeting and time after the meeting provide an easy opportunity for one-on-one chats. Pizza and kid-friendly, healthy snacks will be served too. This week, Ward 1 will hold a meeting tonight, October 16 at East Somerville Community School Auditorium, 50 Cross St. and Ward 3 will hold a meeting Thursday, October 17 at the Somerville High School Auditorium, 81 Highland Ave. Meetings run from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., with refreshments at 6:00 p.m.

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Join East Somerville Main Streets on Saturday, October 19 (rain date of October 20) in East Somerville for the brand new Howl-o-ween Pet Parade and Costume Contest. Dress up your pet and parade around New Washington Street, then walk the red carpet in front of a panel of judges. Prizes are awarded for Best of Show, Best Owner and Pet Combo, Most Creative, Spookiest, Best Group and Best Local Representation. The parade starts promptly at 1:00 p.m. and continues right into the costume contest. Prize baskets featuring gift cards and goodies will be provided. There is a registration fee $5 for each participant who would like to bring a pet to join. It’s free for everyone who wants to come and all are very welcome. This event is supported by Stinky’s Kittens & Doggies Too, Zen Dog Training, Compass Real Estate, Last Hope K9 Rescue, Somerville Dog Festival, and Somerville Media Center.

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The Somerville Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) will host a Meet & Greet event on Tuesday, October 22, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at The Neighborhood Restaurant, 25 Bow Street, in Somerville. All parents and guardians are welcome.