Aging is inevitable, and for many, it signals the beginning of a new chapter - one where you cross off bucket list items and live life to the fullest, on your own terms. However, for some men, aging is a horrible prospect, filled with chronic fatigue, irritability, and inability to perform in the bedroom. If you're concerned about life in middle age and beyond, we've got great news: there are easy, proven steps that you can take to help stop the negative effect of aging.
Global Life Rejuvenation was founded to give men a new lease on life - one that includes less body fat, fewer mood swings, and more energy as you age. If you're ready to look and feel younger, it's time to consider TRT (testosterone replacement therapy), and growth hormone peptides. These therapies for men are effective, safe, and customized to fit your goals, so you can keep loving life as you get older.
TRT, and growth hormone peptide therapies bridge the gap between your old life and the more vibrant, happier version of you. With a simple click or call, you can be well on your way to a brighter future. After all, you deserve to be the one in charge of your wellness and health. Now, you have the tools to do so - backed by science and applied by our team of TRT and HRT experts with more than 13 years of experience.
For men, getting older comes with its perks, like living life on their own terms and not having to "sweat the small stuff" day in and day out. At the same time, there are aspects of aging that men dread, like hormonal changes. Yes, you read that right - men, not just women, go through hormonal changes as they age. For men, the biggest change involves a drop in testosterone.
Lower levels of testosterone can wreak havoc on a male's mind and body and when left untreated, can result in symptoms like:
Those symptoms are concerning, but with testosterone replacement therapy and anti-aging medicine, many males improve their quality of life with age. The good news is that TRT and anti-aging meds aren't only reserved for "old guys." In fact, there's no magic age at which men should start thinking about hormone replacement therapy. Everyone's body is different, so if you're experiencing the above conditions in your mid-30s, TRT could be a viable solution when you consult with a doctor.
Testosterone is a crucial hormone for men and plays an important role throughout the male lifespan. Most of a male's testosterone is produced through the testicles. Also called the male sex hormone, testosterone starts playing its part during puberty.
When a male goes through puberty, testosterone helps males develop:
As boys turn to men and men grow older, testosterone levels deplete naturally. Sometimes, events like injuries and chronic health conditions like diabetes can lower testosterone levels. Unfortunately, when a man loses too much T, it results in hypogonadism. When this happens, the testosterone must be replaced, or the male will suffer from symptoms like muscle loss, low libido, and even depression.
TRT is exactly what it sounds like: a treatment option for men that replaces testosterone so that your body regulates hormones properly and restores balance to your life. Also called androgen replacement therapy, TRT alleviates the symptoms that men experience with low T.
Originally lab-synthesized in 1935, testosterone has grown in popularity since it was produced. Today, TRT and other testosterone treatments are among the most popular prescriptions in the U.S.
Without getting too deep into the science, TRT works by giving your body the essential testosterone it needs to function correctly. As the primary androgen for both males and females, testosterone impacts many of the body's natural processes - especially those needed for overall health. For example, men with low T are more prone to serious problems like cardiovascular disease and even type-2 diabetes.
When your body quits making enough testosterone, it causes your health to suffer until a solution is presented. That's where TRT and anti-aging medicine for men can help. TRT helps balance your hormones and replenish your depleted testosterone. With time, your body will begin to heal, and many symptoms like low libido and irritability begin to diminish.
For men, aging is the biggest contributor to lower testosterone levels, though there are other causes like obesity, drug abuse, testicular injuries, and certain prescribed medications. Sometimes, long-term health conditions like AIDS, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney disease can lower testosterone levels.
When a man's testosterone levels drop significantly, it alters his body's ratio of estrogen and testosterone. Lower testosterone levels cause more abdominal fat, which in turn results in increased aromatase, which converts even more testosterone into estrogen.
If you're concerned that you might have low T, you're not alone. Millions of men in the U.S. feel the same way. The best way to find out if your testosterone is low is to get your levels tested.
For sustainable testosterone replacement therapy benefits, you must consult with hormone doctors and experts like those you can find at Global Life Rejuvenation. That way, you can find the root cause of your hormone problems, and our team can craft a personalized HRT plan tailored to your needs.
Are you used to blasting through a productive day and accomplishing all your daily goals? Do you find yourself losing muscle mass and the craving to be intimate with your partner? Does your partner complain about how irritable you have become? If you're not usually a curmudgeon, your body could be giving you a sign. It could be time to speak with a doctor about TRT and anti-aging medicine for men in Bergenfield, NJ.
If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, you might be battling against low testosterone:
One of the most common reasons that men choose TRT is because they have lost that "spark" with their partner. It's not easy for a man to hear that they're not performing like they used to.
Intimacy is a powerful part of any relationship. When a once-healthy sex life dwindles, it can cause serious relationship issues.
The good news is that low libido doesn't have to be a permanent problem. TRT and anti-aging medicines help revert hormone levels back into their normal range. When this happens, many men have a more enjoyable life full of intimacy and sex drive.
Weak erections - it's an uncomfortable subject for many men in the U.S. to talk about. It's even worse to experience first-hand. You're in the midst of an intimate moment, and you can't do your part. Despite being perfectly normal, many men put blame and shame upon themselves when they can't achieve an erection. And while the inability to perform sexually can be caused by poor diet, obesity, and chronic health conditions, low testosterone is often a contributing factor.
Fortunately, weak erections are a treatable condition. The best way to regain your confidence and ability in bed is to speak with your doctor. Once any underlying conditions are discovered, options like TRT may be the best course of treatment.
Do you find it harder and harder to work out and lift weights in the gym? Are you having problems lifting heavy items that you once had no problem lifting?
Recent studies show that when men are inactive, they lose .5% of muscle strength every year, from ages 25 to 60. After 60, muscle loss doubles every decade. While some muscle loss is common as men age, a significant portion can be tied to low testosterone levels. When a man's T levels drop, so does his muscle mass.
Testosterone is a much-needed component used in gaining and retaining muscle mass. That's why many doctors prescribe TRT Somerville, NJ, for men having problems with strength. One recent study found that men who increased their testosterone levels using TRT gained as much as 2.5 pounds of muscle mass.
Whether your gym performance is lacking, or you can't lift heavy items like you used to, don't blame it all on age. You could be suffering from hypogonadism.
If you're like millions of other men in their late 20s and 30s, dealing with hair loss is a reality you don't want to face. Closely related to testosterone decline and hormone imbalances, hair loss is distressing for many men. This common symptom is often related to a derivative of testosterone called DHT. Excess amounts of DHT cause hair follicles to halt their production, causing follicles to die.
Because hair located at the front and crown is more sensitive to DHT, it grows slower than other follicles and eventually stops growing permanently. Thankfully, TRT and anti-aging treatments for men in Somerville, NJ, is now available to address hair loss for good.
While it's true that you can't change your genes, you can change the effects of low testosterone on your body. Whether you're suffering from thinning hair or hair loss across your entire head, TRT and other hormone therapies can stop hair loss and even reverse the process.
Also called "man boobs," gynecomastia is essentially the enlargement of male breast tissue. This increase in fatty tissue is often caused by hormonal imbalances and an increase in estrogen. For men, estrogen levels are elevated during andropause. Also called male menopause, andropause usually happens because of a lack of testosterone.
If you're a man between the ages of 40 and 55, and you're embarrassed by having large breasts, don't lose hope. TRT is a safe, effective way to eliminate the underlying cause of gynecomastia without invasive surgery. With a custom HRT and fitness program, you can bring your testosterone and estrogen levels back to normal before you know it.
Decreased energy was once considered a normal part of aging. Today, many doctors know better. Advances in technology and our understanding of testosterone show that low T and lack of energy often go hand-in-hand.
If you're struggling to enjoy activities like playing with your kids or hiking in a park due to lack of energy, it could be a sign of low T. Of course, getting tired is perfectly normal for any man. But if you're suffering from continual fatigue, a lack of enjoyment, or a decrease in energy, it might be time to speak with a doctor.
Whether you're having a tough time getting through your day or can't finish activities you used to love, TRT could help.
A study from 2011 showed that men who lose a week's worth of sleep can experience lowered testosterone levels - as much as 15%, according to experts. Additional research into the topic found almost 15% of workers only get five hours of sleep (or less) per night. These findings suggest that sleep loss negatively impacts T levels and wellbeing.
The bottom line is that men who have trouble sleeping often suffer from lower testosterone levels as a result. If you find yourself exhausted at the end of the day but toss and turn all night long, you might have low T.
TRT and anti-aging medicines can restore your T levels back to normal, which can help you sleep better with proper diet and exercise.
You're feeling down about everything, and there's no solid explanation for why you're in such a crummy mood. Your daily life is great and full of success, but you can't help but feel unexcited and unmotivated. If you're experiencing symptoms like these, you may be depressed - and it may stem from low testosterone.
A research study from Munich found that men with depression also commonly had low testosterone levels. This same study also found that depressed men had cortisol levels that were 67% higher than other men. Because higher cortisol levels lead to lower levels of testosterone, the chances of severe depression increase.
Depression is a very real disorder and should always be diagnosed and treated by your doctor. One treatment option gaining in popularity is TRT for depression. Studies show that when TRT is used to restore hormone levels, men enjoy a lighter, more improved mood. That's great news for men who are depressed and have not had success with other treatments like anti-depression medicines, which alter the brain's chemistry.
Ask anyone over the age of 50 how their memory is, and they'll tell you it wasn't what it used to be. Memory loss and lack of concentration occur naturally as we age - these aren't always signs of dementia or Alzheimer's.
However, what many men consider a symptom of age may be caused by low testosterone. A 2006 study found that males with low T levels performed poorly on cognitive skill tests. These results suggest that low testosterone may play a part in reducing cognitive ability. If you're having trouble staying on task or remembering what your schedule is for the day, it might not be due to your age. It might be because your testosterone levels are too low. If you're having trouble concentrating or remembering daily tasks, it could be time to talk to your doctor.
Why? The aforementioned study found that participating men experienced improved cognitive skills when using TRT.
Even though today's society is more inclusive of large people, few adults enjoy gaining weight as they age. Despite their best efforts, many men just can't shed the extra pounds around their midsections, increasing their risk of heart disease and cancer.
Often, male weight gain is caused by hormone imbalances that slow the metabolism and cause weight to pile on. This phase of life is called andropause and happens when there is a lack of testosterone in the body. Couple that with high cortisol levels, and you've got a recipe for flabby guts and double chins.
Fortunately, TRT treatments and physician-led weight loss programs can correct hormone imbalances and lead to healthy weight loss for men.
The benefits of hormone replacement therapy for men are numerous. TRT not only grants relief from low-T symptoms but can help give protection against age-related diseases. Additionally, doctors now recognize male testosterone as an important role in alleviating depression.
Some of the most exciting benefits of TRT can include:
Because men do not go through a specific period of hormonal changes like women do (called menopause), many doctors refer to "male menopause" as androgen decline. This is just another term for low testosterone, but like female menopause, the symptoms can be serious and affect your quality of life.
The best way to fight back against male menopause is with male HRT treatment from Global Life Rejuvenation. We provide the following HRT treatments for men:
Our treatment options are personalized for your body and are available as creams, gels, injectables, and implantable pellets. To find out if testosterone replacement therapy is safe for you, contact Global Life Rejuvenation today to schedule your comprehensive testing and anti-aging treatment consultation.
Growth hormone peptides are an innovative therapy that boosts the natural human growth hormone production in a person's body. These exciting treatment options help slow down the aging process and give you a chance at restoring your youth.
Sermorelin is a synthetic hormone peptide, like GHRH, which triggers the release of growth hormones. When used under the care of a qualified physician, Sermorelin can help you lose weight, increase your energy levels, and help you feel much younger.
Sermorelin is a synthetic hormone peptide, like GHRH, which triggers the release of growth hormones. When used under the care of a qualified physician, Sermorelin can help you lose weight, increase your energy levels, and help you feel much younger.
Benefits of Sermorelin include:
Whether you are considering our TRT services, HRT for women, or our growth hormone peptide services, we are here to help. The first step to turning back the hand of time starts by contacting Global Life Rejuvenation.
Our friendly, knowledgeable TRT and HRT experts can help answer your questions and walk you through our procedures. From there, we'll figure out which treatments are right for you. Before you know it, you'll be well on your way to looking and feeling better than you have in years!
SOMERVILLE — It’s the end of an era for yet, another restaurant in New Jersey.Social, an Italian restaurant and bar, has permanently shut its doors after 30 years in business.“This beloved institution, nestled on North Gaston Avenue, leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable memories, mouthwatering dishes, and community spirit,” according to a post on the restaurant’s Facebook page.The His...
SOMERVILLE — It’s the end of an era for yet, another restaurant in New Jersey.
Social, an Italian restaurant and bar, has permanently shut its doors after 30 years in business.
“This beloved institution, nestled on North Gaston Avenue, leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable memories, mouthwatering dishes, and community spirit,” according to a post on the restaurant’s Facebook page.
The restaurant is owned by John and Peggy Qiku, Albanian immigrants turned restauranteurs, who worked hard to open Ciao Bello, an Italian restaurant on New Year’s Eve, 1994.
Against all odds, the restaurant flourished earning rave reviews and a loyal following of patrons.
But as competition intensified in the restaurant industry, the Qiku family transformed Ciao Bello into Social, introducing Asian fusion cuisine, sushi, and trendy cocktails to the menu.
Their sons, Izzy and Bekim managed the place, and attracted a whole new generation of customers.
“To the Qiku family, thank you for sharing your passion, culture, and warmth. Your dedication has touched countless lives. As Social closes its doors, many wonderful memories come to mind. Laughter and conversations around cozy tables, innovative cuisine, blending Italian and Asian flavors, and warm hospitality, making everyone feel at home,” the post reads.
The restaurant’s impact went beyond its own walls. The Qiku family’s commitment to quality, community, and family serves as a shining example, the social media post continued.
As they prepare for new adventures ahead, the Qiku family plans to pass the torch to a fellow entrepreneur who will bring a new vision to the space.
“Somerville bids a bittersweet farewell. Your legacy will continue to nourish our hearts and memories. Grazie, thank you, Qiku family, for 30 incredible years,” the post concluded.
The good news is that the family’s sister restaurant, Ovations in South Bound Brook is still open. Many of the familiar faces people have come to know and love at Social will be there, too.
Many patrons took to Facebook to express their sadness and disappointment upon hearing the news of Social’s closure.
"I'm so sad. My husband and I went there practically every Friday night when we were dating (back when you were Ciao Bello). It's where we went after we got engaged...so many other wonderful celebrations over the years"
"Well done Qiku’s .. Somerville was enriched by your Hospitality! Good fortune in your next ventures and lives !"
"So sorry to hear this!! We love Social! We had many fantastic meals there as well as a couple private parties. Wishing all the best to Izzy and Bekam."
"So very sad to hear this! We have had so many amazing meals there. The Qiku’s are a very nice and generous family. Good luck on all your future endeavors!"
"I have fond memories of many a dinner and celebration at Social. Knowing the entrepreneurial spirit of the Qiku family for over 45 years, I’m certain that while this chapter ends, another exciting new chapter is sure to begin."
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Gallery Credit: Bill Spadea
The Qiku family will continue to own the property and lease out the space to a new Asian Fusion restaurant slated to open in the spring.Alexis Tarrazi, Patch StaffSOMERVILLE, NJ — After three decades in business, the family-owned and -operated Social Bar & Restaurant has closed its doors.Son Bekim Qiku told Patch the restaurant, at the corner of Gaston and Union Avenues, didn't "abruptly" close but...
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
SOMERVILLE, NJ — After three decades in business, the family-owned and -operated Social Bar & Restaurant has closed its doors.
Son Bekim Qiku told Patch the restaurant, at the corner of Gaston and Union Avenues, didn't "abruptly" close but rather it was a decision for his parents John and Peggy to retire after recently celebrating 30 years in business in December.
"It was just more retirement for my mother and my father," Qiku said. "They're the ones that really started it."
John and Peggy Qiku were Albanian immigrants with an American dream. They opened the Italian restaurant, originally called Ciao Bello, on New Year's Eve 1994.
"Against all odds, their determination paid off. The restaurant flourished earning rave reviews and loyal following. As competition intensified, the Qiku family innovatively transformed Ciao Bello into SOCIAL, introducing Asian fusion cuisine, sushi and trendy cocktails," according to Social.
John and Peggy Qiku's sons Izzy and Bekim also helped with the business. Bekim recalls starting to work in the restaurant when he was 16 years old.
"Thank you to Somerville for hosting us there for 30 years, and to all the people and all the customers that came out and supported us over the years, from Ciao Bello to Social because, I was there since I was 16. I had customers bringing their babies in. I'm watching those kids come in and they're like, 25, 26 years old now. It's pretty, pretty wild," said Bekim Qiku.
Always together as a family, the Qiku's eventually went on to expand to open Ovations at 295 Canal Rd in South Bound Brook.
They continued to run both restaurants until Bekim Qiku said "It was just time to move on."
"My parents just, we want to let them relax and not have to worry about running two restaurants since we always did things together — my mom, dad, brother, yeah, it's a family business," said Bekim Qiku.
Bekim invites all of Social's customers to come try out Ovations. For more information visit ovationsrestaurant.com
Additionally, Bekim said Social has a liquor license they are considering selling. If anyone is interested in the liquor license they should contact Bekim at 908-307-8800.
Have a news tip? Email [email protected].
One of Somerset County's most popular happy hour spots has closed.Social, an Italian restaurant and lounge, has closed at the corner of North Gaston and Union avenues in Somerville, the restaurant posted on its Facebook page.A BYOB Asian fusion restaurant will open at the former home of Social in the spring, said Social co-owner Bekim Qiku.Social owners and founders John and Peggy Qiku are retir...
One of Somerset County's most popular happy hour spots has closed.
Social, an Italian restaurant and lounge, has closed at the corner of North Gaston and Union avenues in Somerville, the restaurant posted on its Facebook page.
A BYOB Asian fusion restaurant will open at the former home of Social in the spring, said Social co-owner Bekim Qiku.
Social owners and founders John and Peggy Qiku are retiring, so their sons Izzy and Bekim are closing Social so they can focus on their other restaurant, Ovations in South Bound Brook, which has the same menu as Social.
Social's liquor license is for sale, and the garage next door, also owned by the Qikus, is for lease. Those interested can contact Bekim at 908-307-8800.
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John and Peggy originally opened Social as Ciao Bella three decades ago.
They rebranded Ciao Bella to Social in 2012. Besides Italian fare, Social also featured sushi, cocktails and American fusion fare in a trendy atmosphere under the guidance of Izzy and Bekim.
The Qikus opened Ciao Bella in pursuit of the American dream after immigrating to New Jersey from Albania.
"It's bittersweet. It's good to move on but its also sad," said Bekim. "Thank you to Somerville for having us for 30 years and thank you to all our customers."
Visit Ovations: 295 Canal Road, South Bound Brook; 732-667-7810, ovationsrestaurant.com.
Contact: [email protected]
Jenna Intersimone has been a staff member at the USA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey since 2014, although she's a lifetime Jersey girl who considers herself an expert in everything from the Jersey Shore to the Garden State's buzzing downtowns. To get unlimited access to her stories about food, drink and fun, please subscribe or activate your digital account today. You can also follow her on Instagram at @seejennaeat and on Twitter at @JIntersimone.
This 36-inch water main, which serves customers in Bridgewater, Raritan, and Somerville, had 2 major breaks in June 2023 and Oct. 30, 2024.Alexis Tarrazi, Patch StaffSOMERVILLE, NJ — After two major water main breaks, New Jersey American Water is proactively replacing four sections of its 36-inch water main on Route 206 in Somerville beginning Tuesday."This is a proactive replacement project to help avert p...
Alexis Tarrazi, Patch Staff
SOMERVILLE, NJ — After two major water main breaks, New Jersey American Water is proactively replacing four sections of its 36-inch water main on Route 206 in Somerville beginning Tuesday.
"This is a proactive replacement project to help avert potential breaks due to the main being at the end of its useful life," said NJ American Water.
This transmission main, which serves customers in Bridgewater, Raritan Borough and Somerville, had two major breaks in June 2023 and more recently on Oct. 30, 2024. The break in June 2023 resulted in customers having no water for multiple days and a boil water advisory.
The break this past October caused water loss for customers for the day and a boil water advisory.
During the repair process, an inspection confirmed several portions of the main needed to be replaced before the comprehensive rehabilitation planned for early 2025.
"After the main break in 2023, we identified this 36-inch transmission main as being vulnerable to similar failures, so we took proactive measures to help mitigate the impact of another break by reinforcing the local distribution system. We also designed a long-term solution to begin construction in early 2025," said Carmen Tierno, Senior Director of Central Operations, New Jersey American Water. "While our mitigation efforts helped reduce the impact of the recent break, further inspection of the main during the repair revealed a need to install new sections of the main now to help avert another issue over the holidays."
Construction and Route 206 Impacts
NJ American Water’s contractor J. Fletcher Creamer & Son will begin construction on Dec. 10, and work on this project continuously (24 hours a day) through its conclusion by Dec. 18.
At this time, Route 206 is expected to remain open, but for the public’s and workers’ safety, traffic restrictions and/or alternating traffic patterns are likely to occur during work hours. All emergency vehicles and local traffic will be allowed access during construction.
Low Water Pressure, Discoloration Possible
Customers in Bridgewater, Raritan Borough and Somerville will continue to have water service during the construction but some areas may notice periods of low pressure or discoloration. If discoloration occurs, customers should run the cold water taps only for three to five minutes at the lowest level of the house. The company encourages customers to collect that water for watering plants or other household uses due to the current drought warning in N.J.
New Jersey American Water will notify customers about this project through its emergency notification system, and information can also be viewed on New Jersey American Water’s website by visiting newjerseyamwater.com/alerts, and clicking "View Active Advisory List."
Long-Term Repair Plans
The company’s long-term solution to rehabilitate the transmission main includes installing a 30-inch reinforcement main, which is scheduled to begin construction in Q1 2025. Once that is completed, the full rehabilitation of the 36-inch transmission main will be addressed. Customers will be notified of these projects before they begin.
Have a news tip? Email [email protected].
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The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin LatanzioThe Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin LatanzioThe Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin LatanzioThe Somervil...
The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.
The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin Latanzio
The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin Latanzio
The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin Latanzio
The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin Latanzio
The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin Latanzio
The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin Latanzio
The Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade in Somerville Saturday night.Photo Credit: Austin Latanzio
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By Austin Latanzio
Published December 8, 2024 at 6:36 PM
SOMERVILLE, NJ - Holiday spirits ran high Saturday night as the Somerville Fire Department hosted its 13th annual Holiday Lights Parade.
This annual event featured over 70 first responder vehicles decked out in lights, inflatables, wreaths, and other holiday decorations.
The parade started at Somerville Fire Department Engine Company 1 on Veterans Memorial Drive, where the volunteers set up their vehicles for the festivities. The area was open to the public before the parade began, and families were invited to walk through the staging area to see the lights firsthand as first responders exchanged stories with each other and worked in earnest to put their many decorations on before the start of the parade. Other families found comfortable places to sit and keep warm along the parade route, waiting for the main event.
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The parade officially started around 6 p.m. on East Main Street and circled Downtown Somerville. It was led by Santa Claus who clamored to the top of a fire truck where he was surrounded by elves. Children jumped and cheered at seeing him, with many waving at Santa who waved back at them with a bellowing "Ho Ho Ho."
Following Santa was a seemingly endless parade of lights that illuminated the streets. As the vehicles made their way through the parade route, they wasted no time in turning on their sirens, which echoed all through the town.
Patrons in local businesses and restaurants came outside to watch.
A few vehicles were rigged with speakers attached, playing Christmas carols; many children danced along to the traditional Christmas songs.
Among the many decorations in the parade, which included inflatables of classic characters such as Snoopy, Frosty, Mickey Mouse, Baby Yoda, and many reindeer, some first responders donned festive costumes. Accompanying some of the vehicles were elves, gingerbread people as well as a few Grinches.
"It's a great way to give back to the community. Let them know we are there for them,"said Jesse Rosario, an East Franklin Fire Company firefighter. "It is a lot of fun, and I likedputting on the lights." This was Rosario's first time being a part of this annual parade, and he wasdelighted to be a part of it. He expressed how good it felt to see the smiles on children's faces inthe crowd. "It's a great way to celebrate and spread holiday cheer."