By Vincent Hicks, CPA

Q: Can I claim a dependent on my taxes if they’re not my child and don’t live with me?

A: Surprisingly, yes! Many people don’t realize that the IRS allows you to claim certain dependents even if they’re not your child—or even if they don’t live with you. But there are some key rules to follow.

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Mayor Katjana Ballantyne checks in with COA director Ashley Speliotis and resident Vanessa to chat about one of their many offerings for seniors: their new Virtual Reality program.

Interested in the VR or other COA programming? Just use 311 (617-666-3311).

Deano’s Fresh Pasta Mural. — Photos courtesy of The SomeSights Map

By Jeffrey Shwom

Google Maps is used by over a billion users globally. In Somerville, one of those users, a work-from-home 3D graphics programmer, spends his time outside walking around documenting and sharing all of the “odd” things that make Somerville interesting and historic. 

Don’t miss this year’s Maple Boil Down, coming up this Saturday.

All are invited! Join in the fun. As part of this project, a team of volunteers taps a swath of maple trees on the Tufts campus beginning in late January, collecting dozens of gallons of sap over a number of weeks. At the Maple Boil Down, coordinated by the Somerville Community Growing Center, we’ll boil it all down into real, true 100% hyper-local maple syrup. At this event, youth and adults alike will have a chance to learn about tree anatomy and physiology and experience the process – and aromas! – of making fresh maple syrup first-hand. Read more about the Somerville Maple Syrup Project here. 

John T. Connelly, affectionately known as JC, of Somerville, passed away peacefully at Lahey Hospital in Burlington on February 24, 2025, at the age of 75.

Born in Boston and raised in Somerville, John was the beloved son of the late William F. and Rita (O’Sullivan) Connelly. A proud graduate of St. Clement High School, John spent his life-giving back to the community he loved.

By Carlie Lombardi

On February 20, the Open Space, Environment, and Energy Committee discussed key environmental policies in Somerville, focusing on yard waste collection, energy efficiency, and sustainability.

Yard waste collection debate

A proposal to extend yard waste collection beyond just December faced logistical challenges, as the Department of Public Works (DPW) Commissioner emphasized winter preparation and financial issues. Residents have raised concerns about yard waste collection timing due to changing seasonal patterns, noting that leaves are falling later in the season. Council members mentioned changing climate conditions and suggested shifting the start of weekly collection later in the fall rather than extending it. The commissioner agreed to consult with waste contractors. Some council members also raised concerns about accessibility for residents without their own private transportation, bringing up different pickup options for yard waste.

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

This article was originally published in the March 15, 2008, edition.

For some strange reason, I started replacing some of my favorite childhood toys – I turned to eBay to accomplish this odd task. I just figured it was another weird part of getting older. So far, I have re-purchased a Secret Sam Spy Rifle with the hidden camera in the attaché case, a Girder and Panel Building Set, one of those 20 Mule Team Borax models and a Kenner “Give A Show Projector.” Remember those? It was a small plastic slide projector that showed color slides of Popeye, The Flintstones, Superman, Yogi Bear, and other cartoons – it worked with batteries and a light bulb, and you would project the image on a wall or a sheet. I got one for 30 bucks on eBay.

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan has confirmed the ongoing investigation into three shootings that occurred across the communities of Cambridge, Somerville and Belmont within 12 hours.

“We have committed substantial resources over the past several years to address every instance of gun violence in this county through prosecution, prevention and legislative action.  These shootings mark the most significant surge in gun violence here since 2022.  The fact that over 50 shots were fired in very densely populated areas, some in the middle of the afternoon, is the type of brazen, dangerous conduct for which those responsible must be held accountable,” said District Attorney Ryan.

(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 State Rep. Christine Barber

Right now, we are facing tremendous threats – to our communities, economy, and our democracy. Like many of you, I have been struggling since the federal election to address these challenges. The last few weeks have escalated our fears of deportations of immigrants who have not committed crimes, of threats against transgender youth, and of a loss of federal funding for critical programs. I am angry about the dangerous decisions being made in Washington, many of which will have very real impacts on our communities. This is a scary moment for so many, but it is also a time to harness our local strengths and channel them into action.

Operators of both The Burren and Dragon Pizza will be opening new establishments in the near future. — Photos by Bobbie Toner

By Jeffrey Shwom

While discussions of new housing, possible business displacement, and the changing face of Davis Square continue, two Davis Square owner groups are broadening their brands into adjacent neighborhoods. The Burren’s owners soon will open their third restaurant and music venue, McCarthy’s and Toad, while Dragon Pizza owners are creating The Hollows in Teele Square.