In the summer, it seems hotter in Somerville. Probably because it is. Eighty-eight percent of this city is covered in asphalt, some neighborhoods don't have enough trees and our density is legendary. And Somerville takes the heat every budget season in June because of our over-reliance on state aid and weak commercial tax base. This year was no different: more than 70 city employees found themselves sweating for their jobs and aldermen grilled the mayor on plans to outsource Somerville workers.

But not everything in Somerville needs to get so heated.

One hundred years ago this week President William Howard Taft came to Somerville – the first time a sitting president ever came to the city. They celebrated the nation's birthday in style in 1920 Somerville and this year, out of respect for history, we should do the same.

Tomorrow, summer in Somerville kicks off with fireworks at Trum Field. The sun will be down and your friends and neighbors will be there.

Here's hoping to a safe Fourth of July weekend in Somerville.