— Photo © YurolaitsAlbert / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Among mask mandates, social distancing, outspoken political views and personal challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a heightened risk for public spaces turning into places of conflict.

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

If there’s ever a real argument comparing these days to the good old days, two words can help win the discussion, full size. Not just candy bars either. Back then there was no such thing as fun size. And instead of a regular size goody bag, my friends and I carried full size pillowcases. Everything back then (60’s-80’s) was bigger. Cars were bigger, toys seemed bigger and, of course, Halloween candy bars were … full size.

Somerville residents have been participating in the city’s early voting program since October 17. — Photos by Anqi Zhang

By Anqi Zhang

Strolling along streets on the sunny Saturday afternoon of October 24 in Somerville, one could find it natural to slow down and watch the surroundings – paths covered with yellow and red leaves, creatively decorated houses and yards, festive storefront. And the long line stretching from the entrance of Somerville City Hall to the square’s back was in harmonious order.

Somerville artist Wilhelm Neusser’s “Downhill” – oil on canvas, 48” x 66″ – currently on display at Abigail Ogilvy Gallery in Boston.

By Rachel Berets

While riding the Somerville Bike Path from his home to his studio this spring, Somerville artist Wilhelm Neusser watched the natural world come back to life in all its color and intensity, just as stay-at-home orders went into effect.

This Halloween, Saturday, October 31, the city invites all residents to join in celebrating Howl-o-ween. Put on a face covering at 6:30 p.m. and give your best Halloween growls, ghost boos, and woops (or to just politely holler out your COVID-19 woes and frustrations) from your door or window. Closer to Halloween, the Somerville Arts Council will also be sharing a map of Halloween decorations if you’d like to plan your own spooky stroll, as well as a list of virtual Halloween happenings. https://somervilleartscouncil.org/.

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

By State Representative Christine P. Barber

In Massachusetts, we often believe that our health care rights are protected, no matter the chaos at the federal level. But with the recent death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the rushed confirmation of radical conservative Amy Coney Barrett, our reproductive rights are at risk. Right now, 17 abortion-related cases are just one step from the Supreme Court – and any one of them could dismantle Roe v. Wade. The reality is that our reproductive rights are holding on by a thread in this country – even in Massachusetts.

As we contend with the awful effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, then do our best to give the little ones some semblance of normalcy as they look to celebrate Halloween, we are triply tasked with searching our souls for the right answers to questions posed at the ballot box next week.

Eagle Feathers #216 – Mr. Philadelphia

By Bob (Monty) Doherty

To say that Russell Conwell made some people feel good about themselves is a colossal underestimate. He was best known as the founder and first president of Philadelphia’s Temple University, founder of an affiliated church, two hospitals, and author of the inspirational speech, Acres of Diamonds, which he gave over six thousand times. During his life time, he lectured to over eight million listeners, educated over ten thousand students and repeatedly turned down requests to name the school after himself.