City buildings will be closed Wednesday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth. Trash, recycling, and yard waste collection will be delayed by one day beginning Wednesday. No street sweeping on Wednesday.

*****************************

FY25 Budget hearing: Vote on approval of revised budget will take place Thursday, June 20, at 7:00 p.m. This meeting of a City Council Committee will be conducted via remote participation. They will post an audio recording, audio-video recording, transcript, or other comprehensive record of these proceedings as soon as possible after the meeting on the City of Somerville website and local cable access government channels. You can view the meeting live and find meeting materials (including an agenda closer to the meeting) at the following link: https://somervillema.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx The public may also attend in person in the City Council’s Chambers at Somerville City Hall (93 Highland Ave.).

*****************************

RSJ is partnering with the Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS), Bow Market, and the Somerville Museum to host the annual reading of Frederick Douglass’ famous address, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” The reading and discussion will take place on Thursday, June 27 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. upstairs at Bow Market (1 Bow Mkt Wy). Doors open at 5:15 p.m. Interested community members are encouraged to RSVP online as space at the venue is limited. www.somervillemuseum.org.

*****************************

Celebrating their birthdays this week: We wish a very happy birthday to a great person and longtime resident of Somerville, Paula LeBlanc. We wish her the very best. Happy birthday to a good guy, Jonathan Buck, who celebrates this week. We wish all of our Facebook friends, such as Donna M. Gilberti, Gail Chambers, Chris Marshall, Kathi Mullins, Terra Yan, Kenneth Lonergan, Marie Kearns, Hugo A Volpe and John O’Rourke a happy birthday. We hope everyone has a great day. To all the others we may have missed, we sincerely wish them the very best of birthdays.

*****************************

Community members are invited to join the Somerville Big Gay Dance Party in Union Square on Saturday, June 22, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. This year’s theme is DINOSAURS! Bring your most rawr-tastic outfits. Sounds by DJ Live, Drag performances by Amanda Playwith and Lily Rose Valore, LGBTQ+ organizations will be tabling. This event is free and open to all LGBTQ+ individuals and allies.

*****************************

On Saturday, June 22, at 7:00 p.m., join the Center for the Arts at the Armory Spotlight Series for a performance by saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, featuring Gadi Lehavi and Ele Howell. More info and tickets visit https://artsatthearmory.org/.

*****************************

CultureHouse has its next pop-up space. They have been working with the City of Somerville to transform the vacant lot in Gilman Square (also known as the Homan’s lot) into a three-month outdoor community space. Gilman Park is a gathering space for local organizations, a hangout space for residents, and an opportunity for development for local businesses, artists, and creatives. The park will be open all summer from June 15 to September 9. Join in for lawn games, vendor markets, beer gardens, food, workshops and music performances. Keep an eye on the website for more information https://culturehouse.cc/projects/gilman-park/. CultureHouse is looking for artists, creatives, non-profit organizations, and local businesses to participate in collaborative programming at Gilman Park Interested groups should fill out the Program Interest Form. For questions, email rishika@culturehouse.cc. Small Mart is hosting bi-weekly vendor markets all summer at Gilman Park. If you are interested in joining the market, please visit https://culturehouse.cc/projects/gilman-park/.

*****************************

Kick off the start of summer with your friends and neighbors at the Growing Center. This spring marks the 30th Anniversary of the beginning of our programming, and they want to celebrate. Join in for live music (and dancing) by Somerville-based band Lunatic Neighbor, Forge ice cream samples drizzled with our own maple syrup, birthday card making, pollinator rafts, button making, archival activities, an interview station, and a pay-what-you-want bake sale. This event is free and open to all, 22 Vinal Ave June 22, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.

*****************************

Share your Growing Center Memories. Do you have any photos from your experiences over the years at the Growing Center, whether from 1994 or last week? Or maybe some images of plants that you got from the Center that flourished? Or know someone who was around during some of the early years who may have photos? You can email them in jpeg format to 30th@thegrowingcenter.org Or visit their website to other options www.thegrowingcenter.org

*****************************

Historic Somerville stickers are available. Collect all of the Historic Somerville Stickers. You can pick them up at local businesses, including Mudflat in East Somerville, 81 Broadway.

*****************************

Join Union Square Main Streets for the Keeping Small Strong Reflect & Refine Community Workshop on Thursday, June 20, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 10 Prospect St. on the 7th floor. This culminating event allows you to: Share your thoughts on what will ensure Union continues to thrive, hear from neighbors like you about what their priorities are, learn more about what USMS has been up to this past year with the ARPA-funded, keeping Small Strong pilot all while enjoying delicious foods + real conversations with your neighbors. For free tickets visit https://www.simpletix.com/e/keeping-small-strong-reflect-refine-commun-tickets-172069.

*****************************

Families are invited to join in as the East Branch kicks off their Children’s Summer Reading Program with Mr. Vinny’s Shadow Puppets. Mr. Vinny (of the acclaimed Toe Jam Puppet Band) will host an evening of magical storytelling told through shadows. Best for ages 5+ and families. June 27, East Branch Library, 115 Broadway. The East Branch is a one-room library. This event will be in the children’s area and library lights will be dimmed during the performance. For more info, contact Meghan: mforsell@somervillema.gov.

*****************************

Due to extreme heat the Civil War Monuments, Burials, and Restoration at Milk Row Cemetery talk scheduled for June 20 has been cancelled along with the Docent Tour: Milk Row Cemetery, 439 Somerville Ave., scheduled for Thursday, June 20, From May through October, three historic sites in Somerville, Milk Row Cemetery (Somerville Avenue), Prospect Hill Tower (above Union Square), and Old Powder House (Nathan Tufts Park), are open to the public on certain days and evenings. Inclement weather cancels any event. For full schedule and more information on the Docent Program: https://www.somervillemuseum.org/docent-program.

*****************************

On June 12, SHS alumni and staff of past and present attended the dedication and memorialization of the 4th floor chemistry lab classrooms in honor of Mr. Joe Tarello. Mr. Tarello was chair of the Science department and taught at Somerville High for an incredible 53 years. To watch the dedication, visit https://www.youtube.com/@SomervilleEdTV.

*****************************

Beginning in July, public charging stations will charge 25 cents per kilowatt-hour. Fees will be used to directly support the city’s electric vehicle programs and expand our station network. For more information, reach out to SustainaVille.ma or visit somervillema.gov/electric-vehicles.

*****************************

Each month, The Dojo at Somernova hosts Gaming is Not a Crime: YouthStream. Come build community through playing your favorite games. The event features cash prizes and pizza and starts at 6:00 p.m. The Dojo at Somernova, 15 Properzi Way, Somerville. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., the Somerville Bike Kitchen, a volunteer-run bicycle repair cooperative, hosts open-shop nights at The Dojo. Stop by and maintain your bike or learn more about cycling. Upcoming Bike Kitchens: 6/20, 6/24.

*****************************

Parkour Generations Americas is hosting the 2024 American Rendezvous (ARDV) event on Friday, June 21, to Sunday, June 23, 15 Properzi Way. An annual gathering and one of the most influential parkour events in North America. Several portions of the event will be hosted in Somerville. This is a great event to work with coaches and participants from across the globe for a weekend of shared experiences and great training. Some things participants can expect: Meet and Greet session to kick off the event on Friday. Two and a half days (16+ hours) of coaching from some of the world’s most experienced parkour instructors from around the world, discounted food from local restaurants and vendors. A “Kids-only” setup and schedule for ages 8-13 years. More information on the event can be found at americanrendezvous.com.

*****************************

Get ready for summer fun at Somerville’s Fourth of July celebration. Enjoy live music, food, and of course, a big, bold fireworks display. Head to Trum Field on Thursday, June 27, at 6:00 p.m. (rain Date Friday, June 28). Due to large crowds and noise associated with the fireworks, the city recommends that attendees leave pets at home and avoid bringing unnecessary bags or back-packs, all of which are subject to inspection. For more information, call 311 (617-666-3311). Learn more at: somervilleartscouncil.org/fireworks.

*****************************

The city’s Inclusionary Housing Program has two income-restricted rental opportunities at 205 Beacon Street. One apartment will be offered to households with an annual gross income at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI), and the other apartment to households with an annual gross income within 51 and 80% AMI. Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, June 26, at 2:00 p.m. Learn more and apply at somervillema.gov/inclusionary.

*****************************

Help stop black swallow-wort this summer. Have you seen this invasive weed in your area? Black swallow-wort (BSW) is an aggressive weed that’s harmful to native plants, butterflies, birds, and more. BSW has shiny green leaves that come in pairs, thin green pods, and small dark purple flowers that grow in clusters. BSW can often be found around fences and shrubs in late May and early June. If you see BSW, dig it up by the root and seal it in a trash bag.

*****************************

As the weather changes, hats and gloves, essential items such as sunscreen, bug spray, and rain ponchos will become vital to keep the Somerville Homeless Coalition’s most vulnerable clients safe and healthy while they’re out in the unpredictable New England weather. Donations can be made through their Amazon wish list or by submitting a donation inquiry. For more in-formation visit Client Needs: https://bit.ly/SHClientNeeds.

*****************************

Somerville’s annual Water System Flushing Program began on Thursday, May 16, and continues through late October. This program consists of flushing pipes at high velocities to clean water mains and maintain the highest possible water quality. Flushing will take place Mondays and Thursdays between 6:00 p.m. and midnight to minimize potential disruptions to water service. Temporary drops in water pressure and/or discolored water can occur. In these cases, though the water may be discolored, it is safe to drink. Until the water runs clear, it is advisable to avoid washing laundry, especially white fabrics. Learn more at: somerville-ma.gov/hydrantflushing.

*****************************

Attention all artists, makers, and more in the greater Somerville area! Somerville Public Library’s Comix Con returns this July and they are looking for local artists to sell their pins, prints, unique art objects and more. They are celebrating fandoms of all types and want you to be a part of their Con. Please fill out this form to be considered for a spot in their Artists Alley: ti-nyurl.com/splccvapp.

*****************************

There are still lots of open spaces for students interested in the Summer Music program, the Middle Grades Robotics program, and the Career and Technical Education middle grades program. Rising 9th graders should check out the Summer Success program to get ready for high school. All programs are run by Somerville Public Schools and are free. Learn more and regis-ter: https://somerville.k12.ma.us/summer.

*****************************

The Somerville Junior Police Academy is back. Hosted by SPD and Somerville Recreation, the program will include classroom training, hands on police tactics, physical training, and more. Registration is open at: https://somervillema.myrec.com/.

*****************************

A reminder that yard waste pickup has begun. Yard waste should be put out with your trash and recycling on your normal pickup day and be in either a paper bag or a trash barrel with a “Yard Waste Only” sticker. Get stickers free of charge at the DPW Building (1 Franey Rd.), at the entrance desk at City Hall (93 Highland Ave.), or by emailing 311updates@somervillema.gov.

*****************************

The 2024 street sweeping season has resumed and will continue through December 31. Check signs in your neighborhood for sweeping days. Visit somervillema.gov/sweeping for a full schedule and to sign up for complimentary street sweeping reminders by text, email, or phone. For more information on street sweeping procedures, visit parksomerville.com.

*****************************

Call to Artists for Somerville Art Council’s Inside-OUT Gallery. The ArtBeat 2024 Wild Exhibit deadline is June 20. Exhibit Theme: Wild. To view submission guidelines and apply, go to the Google Form Application here: https://forms.gle/CrsDHsagUFmrQ58a7 To accompany this year’s ArtBeat 2024 festival, Somerville Art Council’s Inside-Out Gallery in Davis Square invites Somerville based artists of all ages, Somerville residents, and/or artists maintaining work spaces in Somerville to submit work for a group exhibit that fits their interpretation of the word, ‘WILD’.

*****************************

Join Union Square Main Streets and 50+ of your favorite local food producers for the 20th Annual Union Square Farmers Market, 66-70 Union Square. Shop local on Saturdays through October 26, except September 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on the Union Square Plaza. The market provides visitors and residents with top-quality, fresh, and local produce at fair prices; encourages active lifestyle values; educates consumers about farming and locally sourced foods; and gives customers opportunities to interact directly with farmers. For more information about the Union Square Farmers Market, visit unionsquaremain.org/2024-fmseason. SNAP customers get $1 for $1 match up to $15. See the Market Manager tent for more info.

*****************************

Davis Square Farmers Market is now open. Every Wednesday through November 22, 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. visit the Davis Square Farmers Market, across from American Flatbread at 44 Day St. Visit: www.massfarmersmarkets.org/davis. This long-running market features over two dozen Massachusetts farmers and food producers offering a vibrant selection of delicious produce, protein, baked goods, ready-to-eat meals, alongside a host of other locally made products. The market accepts cash, credit/debit cards, WIC/Senior coupons, and EBT cards and offers a weekly $15 SNAP Match.

*****************************

The COA is offering free taxi rides to Somerville residents over the age of 60. Rides are available to go to the grocery store, farmer’s market, and pharmacy in Somerville and routine medical appointments in the surrounding communities. To best accommodate the needs of everyone in the city and to maximize the use of our funding, they will be capping the number of rides per week. To ensure the health and welfare of every resident of Somerville, exemptions will be made for chemotherapy and radiation appointments. To find out more information or to schedule your ride, please call Connie Lorenti at 617-625-6600 ext. 2319. All rides must be booked two business days in advance. This program is funded through ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) Funding.

*****************************

Through the generosity of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and from the direction of Mayor Ballantyne, the Council on Aging is now able to provide Durable Medical Equipment at no cost to Somerville residents. Residents with a documented need for medical equipment must be over the age of 60, or have a permanent disability, and must be otherwise unable to afford or access needed medical equipment. They currently have available: Commodes, Bath Chairs, Bath Benches, Rollator Walkers, Incontinence Supplies and Transport Wheelchairs (wheelchairs are intended for transport and are not self-propelling or self-breaking.) For additional information, or for an application, please contact Debby Higgins at 617-625-6600, ext. 2321.

*****************************

Don’t forget, if you would like to subscribe to receive a digital edition of our paper, go directly online to our website over to the right side and fill out your email address to receive a free, full PDF copy of the paper.