Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

Before the bike path was built trains rolled along there. Growing up in the 60’s and 70’s, the tracks were another playground for us. We had to be very careful for trains but there was always someone looking out. I asked my social media friends and Somerville to share their thoughts on the old train tracks.

The future of how the Armory will be operated is currently under study by the city and interested stakeholders.

By Ana Celerier

On Tuesday, August 1, a virtual public meeting was held to discuss the future of the historic Somerville Armory building. The Somerville Arts Council members were present to discuss the different approaches to the future of the historic building’s management. They said that creating a sense of belonging is essential for the artists currently involved in the space, and that for visitors the space needs to be inviting and inspiring. The Arts Council stated that the city currently owns the Armory and plans to remain the owner.

Planning for a new city at 217 Somerville Ave. is fully underway. — Photo by Bobbie Toner

By Cassidy Beek

The City of Somerville’s Public Space and Urban Forestry (PSUF) Division held a virtual town meeting on Wednesday, August 2 to discuss future plans for a new 6,500 sq. ft. pocket park at 217 Somerville Ave.

By Khoa Tong

The Somerville City Council met for a special meeting, per the request of Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, to discuss paying a $108,379 license agreement for the Tufts Administration Building (TAB) on Thursday, August 3.

Don’t miss this year’s Yart Sale, a citywide showcase of your art. Yart Sale is an opportunity for residents to sell from the comfort of their yards, driveways and porch. Think of a yard sale but with art. Yart Sale will take place on Saturday, August 12, 12:00 to 6:00 p.m., (rain date 8/13). Time of event will vary on participants. Download a PDF with map information here.  Learn more at: https://somervilleartscouncil.org/yartsale 

(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries and letters to the Editor of The Somerville Times belong solely to the authors and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville Times, its staff or publishers)

By Will Mbah
Candidate for Somerville City Councilor at Large

I have been following with interest the planning activity for Gilman Square, where a newly recognized Neighborhood Council hopes to achieve a community-directed redevelopment plan.      

When a community comes together to celebrate and honor something truly worthy, it is especially heartwarming and inspiring.

This week, our city stepped up and gratefully accepted its place among other Purple Heart Communities.

Eagle Feathers #285 – Arlington National Cemetery

By Bob (Monty) Doherty

The western border of Somerville is marked lengthwise by the Dilboy Recreation Field which honors a World War I veteran, the Alewife Brook Reservation and the Alewife Brook Parkway which stretches between Medford and Cambridge.

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I recently caught up with artist/curator Bess Paupek. The objects of her affection are … well … objects.