Union Square - Somerville Community Blog

Here at Mike's, we had a fantastic MLK Day (of course, we were open as usual). But while in the midst of providing the finest Somerville auto service, we made our way by the annual Maple Syrup Brunch - to benefit our friends at Groundwork Somerville.

The brunch is held every year right here in Union Square, across the street at the Independent, which graciously donates the proceeds of the event to help fund Groundwork Somerville's Maple Syrup Boil Down Project.

This year's event came with a twist - for the first time it was held on MLK Day, rather than a Saturday. And what a great idea that was! The Indo was slammed! With so many people having the day off, the event was a major draw. Who wouldn't want brunch on a day off from work?

A special menu was created for the Maple Syrup Brunch. From traditional items, to vegan options, to specialty cocktails like the Jack Rabbit - there was something for everyone.

It was great to see the event be a major success - knowing that Groundwork Somerville would benefit. The Maple Syrup Boil Down has become vital to the children of our city and is now qutie a tradition.

So next year, don't forget that you've got something planned on MLK Day - brunch! We'll see you there!

But you don't have to wait until next year to help - donate to Groundwork Somerville Now!

It's almost New Year's! The start of a new year means something different to everyone. Often it invokes feelings of joy and optimism. Here in Somerville, New Year's Day carries a special meaning. For on that day we celebrate one our local treasures: the Grand Union flag.

Many of you may know that our beloved Grand Union flag - our nations's first flag - was raised by George Washington on Prospect Hill, on January 1, 1776. But did you know that it is still celebrated by those who love our city most?

In fact, since she took helm at the Historical Preservation Commission, Brandon Wilson has worked to return the "grandness" of celebrating the Grand Union flag. A major celebration is prepared for New Year's Day, with a procession starting at City Hall, and finishing at Prospect Hill.

What a great opportunity to experience a profound piece of history, right here in Somerville! We often forget what we have right here, in our own backyard. The first shot fired during the American Revolution may have occurred in Lexington, but the battle lines were drawn here in Somerville, with the raising of the Grand Union flag.

At our Somerville auto repair shop, we look up and see the Grand Union flag every day, waving proudly, as if it's wathcing over us.

What are you doing New Year's Day? Why not get out and see the procession? Stop by Prospect Hill, and think about what the new year means to you. And how if it wasn't for George Washington and the Grand Union flag, it might mean something entirely different.