The City of Somerville’s Office of Sustainability and Environment along with Somerville Public Schools held a “Flip the Switch” event on the concourse of the East Somerville Community School on Thursday, May 12. It was a way to celebrate the installation of 940 solar panels atop the school building, and the positive impact it has in the pursuit of the city’s goal to achieve net-zero carbon-negative status by 2050. It is the largest solar array in the city, and produces more than half of the ESCS’s energy use. This solar array will increase the city’s solar photovoltaic capacity by 700%.

Eighteen local teens created artwork in response to the questions, how do you share your cultural identity? How would you like to take your place in the museum? The teens’ work challenges stereotypes and will be featured in a museum display which invites visitors to consider cultural identity.

Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Medford Chief of Police Jack Buckley have confirmed an ongoing investigation into the death of Barbara Novaes, 61 of Medford who was located in an enclosed area outside her home on Emery Street Monday morning.

Open Positions: Two; Term: Five years

The Somerville Housing Authority (SHA) Board of Commissioners seeks two new members, and all Somerville residents are invited to apply. These positions do not have to be filled by SHA residents, but SHA residents are encouraged to apply. Boards and commissions offer an opportunity for residents with a range of experience, skills, expertise, and perspectives to share their talents and insights with their community.

Throughout the month of May, the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission (SHPC) partners with other local organizations to host events honoring Somerville’s history and historic assets. All events are open to the public, ADA accessible, and FREE.

 May– October. Launch of Volunteer Docent Program. Three Historic Sites: Prospect Hill Tower, Milk Row Cemetery, and Old Powder House.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the Boston metro region this Saturday and Sunday, May 21 and 22, and community members are urged to take precautions. High temperatures and significant humidity are expected both days. To stay safe, review the following heat safety tips and ways to stay cool in Somerville. Most importantly, do not leave children or pets in a vehicle even if the windows are open, drink plenty of fluids, stay out of the sun, and limit your outdoor activity. If you need a place to cool off, Somerville Public Libraries will be open and air-conditioned during their regular hours this weekend.

Open Positions: Five;Term: Three years 

The City of Somerville seeks five members for the Mayor’s Appointments Advisory Committee (AAC), and all Somerville residents are invited to apply. Boards and commissions offer an opportunity for residents with a range of experience, skills, expertise, and perspectives to share their talents and insights with their community.

— Photo by Bethanie Hines

The Center for the Arts at the Armory in Somerville, MA is excited to announce the return of their annual fundraising gala A Night in Bloom on Friday, May 20. Celebrating with the Arts at the Armory will be renowned composer, violinist and educator Daniel Bernard Roumain (DBR).