The doors may be closed, but the virtual parking office is open. You can renew or apply for a new resident parking permit online at somervillema.gov/parking. New residents should ensure their vehicle is registered and insured in Somerville, and that you have proof of residence (like a utility bill or bank statement).

You can make your garden bird-friendly by following a few simple steps. — Photo © mirceax / iStock via Getty Images Plus

You may not think about it often, but wild birds use your lawn as a rest stop and place to call home. As you spruce up your lawn and garden for the season, there are simple steps you can take to protect them and help them thrive.

According to Spencer Schock, founder of WindowAlert, makers of bird-friendly products for homes, the following changes are easy to implement in order to create a safe harbor for wild birds:

— Photo by Doug Holder

Somerville will be limiting the number of in-store shoppers to no more than 107. Those waiting to enter the store will form a socially-distanced line outside the building.

The School St. bridge closure currently in effect will be extended through at least April 12 to advance Green Line Extension (GLX) construction. Extending the current closure during this period of minimal traffic is intended to accelerate productivity and minimize the cumulative impact of the bridge closure on the community. The School St. pedestrian bridge between Medford St. and Highland Ave. will remain open for pedestrians and cyclists.

Seasonal joint discomfort is a problem for many, but these tips can help ease the pain. — Photo © nensuria / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Do April showers bring May flowers or just a lot of aches and pains? While research on how weather affects a person’s pain levels is inconclusive, many people swear that the pain in their joints or ache “in their bones” can predict rainy or chilly weather ahead. The general theory is that this is caused by changes in temperature and barometric pressure.

People who need help during this crisis or grief counseling should call 311.

Mama Mia! We miss our students so very much!
We hope you all are well, staying happy and healthy with your families. We will see you all soon!

Normally there is an editorial from Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone in this space, but this week the City is instead sharing important information and updates about COVID-19.

 On Tuesday, March 31, Gov. Charlie Baker extended the closure of non-essential businesses and the state’s stay-at-home advisory until Monday, May 4. While these measures are important to help control the spread of COVID-19, they also come with financial impacts to many people. If you or someone you know is facing housing issues, food insecurity, or other issues, help is available.

Mary E. (Coyne) Fantasia , age 100, March 5. Of Lynnfield, formerly Somerville and Plymouth. Former State Representative. Beloved wife of the late Anthony N. Fantasia. Mother of the late Patricia Stewart and her husband James of Framingham, the late Kevin Fantasia and his wife Donna of Plymouth, and Joanne Cedrone and her husband Ron of Lynnfield. Grandmother of six and great-grandmother of eight.

Sadly today we report our first COVID-19 death. Our thoughts are with the deceased’s family and friends during this difficult time. To see a statement from Mayor Curtatone, please visit www.somervillema.gov.