Increasing spread of Delta variant warrants increased vigilance

Given the increasing case numbers of COVID-19, both locally and nationally, due to the emergence of the Delta variant, and in light of the CDC’s updated guidance on masking, the City of Somerville is strongly recommending all people wear face coverings in indoor public settings regardless of whether they have been vaccinated against the virus. While vaccinated individuals have vastly better protection against being infected by the coronavirus and suffering severe COVID symptoms, it is still possible for them to get infected with and transmit the virus. This was demonstrated by a recent outbreak in Provincetown that featured numerous breakthrough infections among vaccinated individuals.

The Somerville Community Growing Center has announced their in-person free public events for August:

MOTS: Modular on the Spot
Sunday, August 1, 4:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Modular on the Spot is a free and inclusive music community focused on offering a home for modular synth enthusiasts to share their performances with the public. Hosted by Richard Tarantino. This event is free and open to all.

ONCE Somerville has found new life for their live events at Boynton Yards while they search for a permanent indoor venue. — Photos by Joshua Pickering

By Fernando Cervantes Jr.

As restrictions loosen and businesses and venues begin reopening around the Commonwealth, the demand for events and entertainment has been soaring like never before.

One of the venues which has been flourishing recently is ONCE Somerville, a space where various musicians and artists have performed for six years.

On Sunday, August 1, three mobile clinics will be set up around the city to provide Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to anyone 12 or older. Clinics will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the following three locations:

• Holy Bible Baptist Church, 64 College Ave.

• St. Anthony’s Parish, 12 Properzi Way

• Brazilian Presbyterian Church, 212 School St. 

(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries and letters to the Editor of The Somerville Times belong solely to the authors and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville Times, its staff or publishers)

Several years ago, I made a choice to switch to reusable grocery bags. But when I go to the Whole Foods on Beacon Street, I am cornered into filling those cloth bags to the brim with single-use plastic. From the plastic bags I use to hold my fruits and vegetables to the plastic containers that carry my soups and salads, I always seem to leave the store with my arms full of pollution.

By Rachael Hines

The Historic Preservation Commission met on Thursday evening last week to discuss various upcoming construction projects, and voted to allow demolition plans to continue on 25 Appleton Street.

The vote was 5-1, with the only dissent being from commission member Dick Bauer. “The house ought to be preserved,” said Bauer, who expressed minor concerns over the safety of the demolition and the vague wording of the paperwork involved with the construction contract.

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

A family of my friends with small children were heading up to Story Land in New Hampshire. With gas and hotel, that costs a pretty penny. A day at Canobie Lake Park, for a family of 4 without discount coupons, will cost a whopping $120.00. Toss in the food and some souvenirs and you’re coming home with an empty wallet. It’s all relative too.

Three of Somerville’s polling places have been relocated for the upcoming election cycle. All other polling locations will remain the same as they were last year. Before voting in the September 14 preliminary election, don’t forget to double-check your polling location.

The deadline to register to vote or update your party affiliation or address for the September 14 preliminary election is Wednesday, August 25, at 8 p.m. Massachusetts voters have the option to register online or via a paper form. To register by mail you can call (617) 625-6600 ext. 4200 and request a form be mailed to you, or you can download one from the Elections website. Don’t forget that your form must be returned to the Somerville Elections Department by 8 p.m. on Wednesday, August 25. You can also visit the Elections Department in City Hall to register to vote. Please note face coverings are required in all City buildings.

Congratulations to LT Andrew Guralnick, LT Barry Hamilton, Capt Timothy Bakey, and LT Brendan Noonan on officially being sworn in as Somerville’s newest firefighters. Well-deserved, gentlemen!