A Command Performance of Jazz, Blues, and everything in-between awaits the music afficionado this weekend, as Mayor Joe hosts the area’s best. - Photo by Andrew Firestone

By Krysia Wazny

Any great piece of music incorporates a variety of elements. It must have a melody, a harmony, and a good beat. Artists who seek to make music inevitably contribute some of themselves in the process, drawing from their backgrounds and passions. This phenomenon is perhaps most readily observable in jazz and blues.  These frequently paired genres are rooted in various regional traditions. From north to south, musicians absorb local influences into their compositions, whether they are big band charts or spirituals. So what does Somerville jazz sound like? As might be expected in a community near a large metropolitan area and known for supporting musical endeavors, Somerville’s sound is composed of many styles. Back for its third year, Joe’s Jazz and Blues Fest will offer audiences a glimpse of this unique musical combination.

Crafted for flavor: one of the many delectable delights to be found at the Bizarre Bazaar this Sunday.

By Carrie Stanziola

If you are looking for a fun free event, come to Union Made on June 19 in Union Square from 12 to 6 p.m.  Even though this is only Somerville’s second time hosting the event, the Bizarre Bazaar has been going strong for the past 10 years.  Originating in the Boston area, over time it has spread to Los Angeles, Cleveland, and San Francisco.  Although the winter Bazaar generally showcases 100-150 vendors, Sunday’s event will still have an impressive 50.

City joins 85 other Massachusetts communities in updating building code to foster more energy efficiency

Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone has signed a change to Somerville’s building code that will require a 20% higher energy efficiency standard for new construction. Called a stretch code, the policy is designed to reduce energy and heating costs, saving money for residents in the long run as well as reducing the city’s overall carbon footprint.

By Mayor 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.)

I had an enlightening discussion when I sat down with school superintendent Tony Pierantozzi the other night to prepare for my budget presentation to the Board of Aldermen. My question for the superintendent was, “What new policies and programs in the schools should I highlight?”

On behalf of MassDOT, the City of Somerville reminds residents that, due to ongoing bridge replacement work on I-93 this summer, traffic impacts may occur in abutting neighborhoods in Somerville.  Beginning Friday, June 17^th at 8:00p.m. and lasting until 5:00 a.m. on Monday, June 20^th, the I-93 Fast 14 Project will include the closure of the on-ramp on Route 16.  The detour route to access I-93 Northbound will be Mystic Avenue Southbound, to Lombardi Way, to Mystic Avenue Northbound.  As a result of this detour, there may be an increase in traffic along the Broadway corridor from the Powderhouse Rotary to Mount Vernon Street/Lombardi way.  Somerville Police Details will be present to assist motorists, however residents are advised to check traffic alerts and avoid vehicle travel in these areas, as well as along Route 16 when possible, as delays are expected.

(from the city of Somerville)

2011 championship banner hangs above City Hall's front door entrance. Banner made by Somerville business, Flagraphics.

The 2011 Stanley Cup Championship banner, which will be displayed from the John Hancock Tower in Boston, was laid out and assembled in the Somerville High School Gymnasium  this afternoon.  The championship banner was produced by Somerville business Flagraphics, under the direction of Owner/Founder Tony LaFuente.

By Jim Clark

A shoplifter detained at K-Mart last Saturday had a lot of trouble identifying himself, according to police.

Responding Somerville police officers questioned the man who had been detained by K-Mart loss prevention staff for allegedly trying to steal a pocket watch and two necklaces.

In 2009 Magoun Square residents were briefed on proposed revitalization plans. Today there is still much to be accomplished. - Photo by Beecher Tuttle

By Harry Kane

Magoun Square is an ethnically diverse neighborhood located off Medford Street in Somerville. During the most recent ResiStat Meeting for Ward 5 City Economic Development Planner, Brad Rawson, spoke about the challenges of revitalization in the undefined district. There is a lack of pedestrian oriented businesses, unattractive storefronts and inadequate exterior lighting. Of the 45-50 businesses in Magoun Sq. there are currently seven vacant storefronts. Of the 4500 people living in the Magoun Sq. neighborhood approximately 50 million dollars is spent outside of the vicinity. “This has to change. We need to move that spending back into Magoun Square,” commented Brad Rawson.

The “unsung hero of Ward 1” Susan Fontano was honored by the BOA last Thursday. - Photo by Andrew Firestone

By Andrew Firestone

Longtime firebrand and friend to The Somerville News Susan Fontano was recognized for her four-year tenure as President of East Somerville Main Streets. Joined at the podium by Aldermen Bill Roche and Dennis Sullivan, as well as a throng of admirers, Fontano was elated as she received her citation for her tireless work.