Public meetings this week include a call for help returning Jerry’s Pond to a better public amenity and an order for orders overwhelming city staff; a look at property near wetlands that’s meant to hold senior affordable housing; and a proposal for a Central Square Dunkin’ Donuts.

Starbucks closed after 25 years citing crime as a factor. But Dunkin’ has a franchisee saying it’s looking forward to opening “in the vibrant heart of Central Square.”

Around 40 people were displaced and one person found dead after a fire broke out early Tuesday in one apartment of a building in North Cambridge.

After a year of controversy over math standards and educator contract negotiations, the new School Committee term got off to a sweetly quiet start Monday with songs, speeches and family.

The New Year’s Day inaugural for the Cambridge City Council brought city councillor E. Denise Simmons back as mayor after a six-year gap.

There are more than 110 armed conflicts taking place globally right now, according to the Geneva Academy, and plenty of horror and humanity to recognize in these plaques by David Smith at the Harvard Art Museums.

Public meetings this week include swearing-in ceremonies for the new City Council and School Committee, the start of work for committee members and Historical Commission consideration of homes being partially demolished or relocated near Harvard Square.

Most days, living in Cambridge can feel like paradise – but the city isn’t perfect. Here are some best and worst moments from the past year, people we lost and businesses that closed (or opened).

Mayoral staff who report going to Cambridge’s human resources department with complaints of a toxic workplace and coming away without help are just the latest in a line of frustrated municipal workers.

An online information session about the emergency shelter at East Cambridge’s Registry of Deeds Building is planned by state and city officials for 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday. The Safety Net Family Shelter opened Friday.