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Marc Zegans is the author of six collections of poems, most recently, The Snow Dead from Somerville’s Cervena Barva Press. His poems are often translated to stage as immersive theater, most recently to the San Francisco LitQuake production Sinaesthetic, and Erotic Eclectic’s, Sirens, Dreams and a Cat, which was based on his poems and those of D.L. Wilder. His verse has also given rise to several short films. Marc’s poetry and creative advisory services can be found at www.marczegans.com. 

Arrests:
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Christopher Cornell, of Malden, July 15, 10:01 p.m., arrested at McGrath Hwy. on warrant charges of disorderly conduct and possession of a class B drug.

As of Monday, July 20, the COVID-19 testing site previously located at the Somerville Hospital has moved to 133 Middlesex Avenue (near the former Kmart site) in Assembly Square. The testing site is part of a larger COVID-19 mitigation strategy by the City of Somerville in partnership with Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA). Patients can arrive at the site via vehicle, walking, or bicycle, and testing procedures will be the same as at the previous location:

Mayor Curtatone discusses Somerville’s more cautious approach to Phase 3 reopening, which has been put on pause until at least Monday, August 3.

As the weather continues to heat up the next few days, remember to follow these 10 #HeatSafety tips. You can find more info at somervillema.gov/keepcool.

1. Know the signs of heat-related illness. If you are experiencing headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, cramps, high body temperature, or a fast pulse, seek medical help immediately and move to a cooler place.

A photography exhibit by Somerville resident, Stan Eichner, illustrates the dynamic relationship between landscape photography and climate activism. Beginning on July 27, the exhibit, entitled Fighting For Our Planet, promotes an appreciation for the profound beauty of the world and underscores the critical importance of protecting our planet from thoughtless destruction, especially the current climate crisis.

Hyperlocal Media Now More than Ever
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SMC’s ongoing efforts to meet the needs of the community at this trying time includes providing regular hyperlocal news coverage and collaborating with organizations to best meet their media needs. In addition to regular updates with State Delegation, City Council, Local Businesses and the School Committee, we’ve also provided full coverage of three local Black Lives Matter rallies and co-produced candidate forums ahead of the September primary election. Watch and be inspired to reach out to us and help us to keep Somerville informed, safe and engaged. Here are some their newest videos:

Citing concerns over metro region case numbers, state contact tracing weaknesses, and risk of new surge, Somerville postpones Phase 3 by at least another two weeks 

Somerville’s planned Phase 3 Step 1 business reopening is now on hold until at least Monday, August 3, as local officials grow increasingly concerned about potential impacts amid rising new case averages in the metro area and growing concerns about the efficacy of the state’s contact tracing program. Prior state guidelines limiting indoor and outdoor gatherings to no more than 10 persons will also remain in effect until at least August 3 as well. In collaboration with area businesses, the city has developed provisional enhanced safety requirements and guidelines for Phase 3 businesses, but their reopening will be put on hold.  

69 Berkeley St. , Somerville

By Marian Berkowitz

Spring weather has finally arrived, so once again I can begin contacting the owners who won a 2020 award from the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission for their efforts in preserving the exterior of some of Somerville’s older buildings.