As a follow-up to an Arts Community Town Hall held in September, two additional virtual meetings have been scheduled to discuss issues related to Somerville’s arts and culture community. 

Cash prizes up to $1000, Elfie-Selfies that support local food programs and more

Union Square Main Streets (USMS) announces details for its 6th Annual Holiday Stroll including rad retail, unique eats, a mile long inflatable trail, the Keep Small Strong Challenge and much more. This free and family friendly celebration began Friday, December 4 and continues throughout the square for eight days. 

— Photo © McCormick

It may take a little extra time and creativity, but a holiday cookie exchange can be held virtually and it’s worth the effort according to experts.

“There’s a famous quote, ‘If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.’ It’s so true for me as I find great joy in developing easy, flavorful recipes,” says Cindy Gilbert, McCormick Test Kitchen chef. “My friends have come to me for years requesting tips and tricks, and over 20 years ago, they anointed me the annual holiday cookie exchange leader. This past year has been challenging, but I knew I wanted to keep the tradition alive while following social distancing guidelines.”

Simple eco-friendly changes to your daily routines can help the planet. — Photo © lady_in_red13 / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Each American throws out about 4.5 pounds of trash per day, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. By incorporating the “Three Rs” (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) into routines, you can help divert some of this waste away from landfills to help protect the environment.

Here are a few ideas for changing your habits to be more eco-friendly:

Annual Christmas tree lighting and community candle lighting with Temple B’nai B’rith moved online; Arts Council map can help you plan your own Illuminations Tour

This year, the City of Somerville has rethought its annual holiday traditions so that we can still celebrate as a community while protecting against COVID-19. 

The City of Somerville is seeking community members interested in taking action on the climate crisis to apply for the 2021 Climate Forward Ambassador Program. The program will begin January 2021, and meetings will be held virtually over Zoom. 

A fire broke out late Wednesday night at 35–37 Teele Ave. According to reports the fire was originated from the roof. Fire companies soon arrived to douse the fire.

The residing families were reportedly displaced. As of this time there have been no reports of injuries.

Investigators were called in to determine the cause of the blaze.

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

I found a piece of family treasure recently that knocked me for a loop.

I got up on the Sunday morning after Thanksgiving, had coffee and a piece of pumpkin pie, right out of the plate, no fork. I’m watching TV, typing with one hand and patting my emotionally needy cat with the other.

Among other issues addressed by the Somerville City Council at their latest meeting, a disbursement $500,000 from the Covid-19 Stabilization Fund to support local arts was approved.

By Max Eidelman

The Somerville City Council met for a remote meeting last Tuesday to address matters ranging from the appointment of the city’s next Chief of Police to the financial support of Somerville’s arts community.