On The Silly Side 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.)

I lived in Lenny and Louise Scott’s house on Pearson Ave. from 1956 to 1961. Ball Square was a short walk and we spent a lot of time there. As a matter of fact, former alderman and school committee member Lenny Scott gave me a 1882 silver dollar for my birthday one year. I went to Savel’s 5 and 10 and bought my mother an apron. My dad went down there shortly after that and got the silver dollar back (and gave him another one). I still have that coin. I also have many memories of those days long ago in Ball Square. To add to my own memories, I interviewed a very knowledgeable friend of mine with an excellent memory, who told me about Ball Square in the 1940’s and 50’s. She wishes to remain anonymous, but the interesting and historic information she gave me is here in this column for us to enjoy.

Panel of Community Reps, Business Leaders and Policy Experts to Assess New Technologies, Best Practices for Pedestrians, Transit, Bicycles and Vehicles

Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone announced  that he has created a Transportation Research, Innovation and Planning (TRIP) Team to advise the City on new technologies and procedures designed to increase accessibility, capacity, convenience and safety in all modes of local transportation. The advisory panel is composed of representatives drawn from the city’s residential and business communities as well as Somerville-based transportation and parking policy experts.

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.)

The Somerville Chamber of Commerce’s Business Town Meeting is now in its seventh year:  I don’t think it’s too soon to declare it a tradition and an important event on the city’s annual calendar.  The Business Town Meeting has become a chance for me to review – and in some cases to preview – the efforts of municipal government to promote jobs and economic activity across the city.

By Jim Clark 

A routine traffic stop last week yielded more than officers bargained for as quantities of what appeared to be marijuana packaged for sales were discovered in the driver’s vehicle.

The Duppy Conquerors and Dub Apocalypse will be rocking the Armory this coming Friday night.

By Francisco L. White

This coming Friday night, Arts at the Armory patrons can expect an unforgettable experience. The Duppy Conquerors, an accomplished Bob Marley tribute band and local favorite, will share the stage with Dub Apocalypse for a night that is likely to leave any music lover wanting more. If you are unfamiliar with the tunes of the legendary Bob Marley or have never heard either of these bands play, this show will be the perfect opportunity to be immersed in reggae music and great local musicianship.

Residents Asked to Take Online Survey to Help Shape Agendas for Neighborhood Discussions

Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone and the Somerville Board of Aldermen invite residents to attend their local Spring 2012 ResiStat Community Meetings, a twice-yearly effort to share the latest City data and news directly with residents and gather their feedback.

Healey is one of six elementary schools tagged for implementation of a foreign language program in the near future.

By Harry Kane

The Superintendents office is recommending a middle school foreign language program next year. Three middle school foreign language teachers are being requested in the budget. Approximately $171, 000 will be used to hire staff for the foreign language program.

By Jim Clark 

A man accused of attempting to snatch a woman’s purse was sought and detained by police last Sunday.

By Harry Kane

The Department of Public Works was temporarily denied the money to be spent on the Public Safety Building at 220 Washington St.

This Saturday, April 21, Earth Day Weekend kicks off here in Somerville, three events will be going on to celebrate the city’s commitment to green initiatives and urban farming. From 10 a.m. to noon over at 81 Broadway “Urban Agriculture Workshop” will be sharing information and gardening tips. Also, from 10 a.m. to noon at 111 South Street, join the Groundworks Somerville Green Team for a “farm raising.” From 1 to 3 p.m. Somerville Reads Celebration presents a community potluck. Bring a dish to share (please list ingredients) and vote your favorite. This event will take place at 79 Highland Avenue Somerville Library.