Early Somerville living built character by Paul Maisano

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

It was dead silent that July morning as I walked by Glen Park. A weird mist covered the entire field. It was almost scary. In the distance, the fog hid the bottom part of the huge old wooden light posts. Those giant splintery pillars seemed to grow out of the white blanket. My eyes locked on to the top portions set up against the early morning sky. The clusters of silver metal cans that housed massive glass light bulbs once again promising to light the night softball games all summer…were dark.

Michael Nesmith and band is on the road and stopping off in Somerville. – photo by Alexandra Battaglia

By Jim Clark

Michael Nesmith is a man who has worn many hats in his professional career. As one of the progenitors of the budding country-rock genre of the 70s, one can picture him in a rugged Stetson. As a creative innovator in television and film, a stylish director’s beret might seem appropriate. And, as millions of baby boomer fans of the wildly popular 60s rock group The Monkees would affirm, the signature wool cap that became a trademark for his television persona would surely come to mind.

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

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

It’s an exciting time of the year for high school kids. The nice weather reminds us that June and freedom are right around the corner.

The Somerville COA had a great breakfast to begin the month of April with a talk by Seth Coburn, Tufts Friedman School on Nutrition Science and Policy Intern at the COA and resident nutritionist for their Fit-4-Life program. Pictured here are Hazel Evans, Seth Coburn and Theresa Connolly. Seth spoke about healthy eating and how easy it can be. He is putting together the Nutrition Fair, May 2 at Holland Street Center with lots of healthy food samples, guidelines for healthy eating and more. Sign up at 617-625-6600 ext. 2300. It’s free.

Somerville Residents Ages 16 and Up Eligible to Apply for Summer Program; Job Placement in City Departments, Local Businesses

Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and Somerville Youth Services Coordinator Nancy Bacci announced that applications are now available for the 2013 Mayor’s Summer Jobs Program.  Available through April 30, applications can be found at the City of Somerville’s Personnel Department (City Hall) or on the city’s website (www.somervillema.gov).  The Program provides opportunities for Somerville youth to gain employment and job training within the public and private sectors throughout the summer.  Eligible students must be Somerville residents, enrolled in high school, and at least 16 years of age.  All applications must be returned to the Personnel Department.

By Joseph A. Curtatone

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

Over the last several weeks, this column has been dedicated to the ways in which we have been, and intend to continue to ensure that Somerville is a great place to live, work, play and raise a family.  What I want to emphasize this week is the fact that, first and foremost, this orienting value of ours starts with a commitment to our young people.

Authors Kevin Cullen and Shelley Murphy enlightened those who gathered at The Book Shop in Ball Square on the long and difficult search for one of America’s most sought after criminals, Whitey Bulger. – Photo by Blake Maddux

By Blake Maddux

“When he finally gets pinched,” said Boston Globe columnist Kevin Cullen, “I go to the Globe and I said, ‘We gotta write a book on this.’ They said that’s a great idea, but I said, ‘I will only write it with her.’”

A Somerville man has been charged with murder for the 2009 homicide of 24-year-old Christopher Souza of Somerville, Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone informed the public this week.

The street sweeping parking enforcement season resumes this week, and residents are reminded that they must adhere to posted notifications of schedules, and move vehicles to the appropriate side of the road on sweeping days in your neighborhood. Failure to comply with street sweeping parking regulations will result in a $50 fine. Residents are also reminded that you may sign up to receive e-mail reminders about street sweeping schedules in your neighborhood by visiting www.somervillema.gov/sweeper. Street sweeping is an essential public works activity that not only keeps the city looking cleaner, but reduces the risk of flooding and icing due to catch-basin clogging and storm drain back-up. For additional information, please call 311.

By Jim Clark

Last Saturday, Somerville Police, along with the aid of the North Eastern Law Enforcement Council Special Weapons and Tactics team, conducted a secure and search operation at a home on Gilman St. that was suspected of housing a marijuana distribution operation.