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

Dear Editor:

I was hoping that you would assist me in recognizing a group of people that are too often under appreciated; Direct Support Professionals working with adults with intellectual disabilities.

Enter the 4th Annual Ryan Harrington Foundation Corn Toss Tournament. Show off your skills. Win a juicy CASH PRIZE and have your name added to the growing list of winners on the official RZH Tournament plaque. The proceeds from this event will go towards Somerville youth programs and helping out disadvantage Somerville youth by sponsoring everything from little league teams to sponsoring individual children to attend camp.

Many in the community feel that natural grass is the best way to go for the playing fields of Lincoln Park, while artificial turf proponents continue to press their case. — Photo by Bobbie Toner

By Mariya Manzhos

The City of Somerville’s plan to install synthetic turf at Lincoln Park has spurred a vibrant discussion among a group of residents who wish to preserve the natural grass.

Over the last three weeks, the natural grass proponents gathered 671 signatures in support of keeping grass. The petition was presented at the Board of Aldermen meeting on August 27.

The Somerville Times endorses Charles J. Chisholm for the position of Ward 6 Alderman in the upcoming primary election on Thursday, September 17.

By The Times Staff

Our endorsement for Ward 6 Alderman is Charles J. Chisholm. We urge voters in Ward 6 to read his literature, talk to him and visit his website to see his record of things done already as a former Alderman here in Somerville and, more importantly, what he stands for and what he believes an alderman should be.

The SOS (Somerville Overcoming Addition) 2nd Annual Candlelight Memorial Vigil will be held Tuesday, September 15 at 7:00 p.m. at Somerville High School. The vigil program starts at 7:00 p.m. Reflect with friends, visit resource tables, and get trained for overdose prevention/Narcan from 6:15 to 7:00 p.m. For more information and to read more about this go to their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/somervilleovercomingaddiction.com.

State and local officials are determined to do everything they can to make sure that the Green Line Extension project continues through to its completion.

By Josie Grove

Last Sunday, Deborah Kaplan waited for the 88 bus to take her from Union Square to Lechmere. In a few years, the Green Line Extension could make her trip faster. But since the project has been projected to go nearly $1 billion over budget, its future is becoming less certain. Kaplan is ambivalent. “I never particularly expected it to be on time,” she says. “If it actually happens, I will be pleasantly surprised, but the buses are great.”

Looking to use up the last harvest of your zucchini and tomatoes? This recipe is easy and flavorful. It can be served over your favorite pasta, roasted spaghetti squash and even over grilled boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs with rice.

— Photos by Claudia Ferro

The news that we – us taxpayers, remember? – will be footing the bill for a replacement slide at Chuckie Harris Park came as quite a shock to a good number of us. Particularly in light of the fact that the existing defunct one is not that old to begin with.

Wednesday, September 9:

3:00 p.m. – Golf Practice – Stonemeadow Golf

Athletes are to meet in area designated by coach

5:15 p.m. – JV Girls Volleyball Practice – Field House

5:15 p.m. – Varsity Girls Volleyball Practice – Field House