Over the past few weeks, there has been an increase in COVID-19 positive cases in New
Jersey. The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) has reported that the state is seeing
increasing signs of community spread, predominantly in kids and young adults. This past
Thursday, the rate of transmission was 1.22. As the cold weather sets in and people move
indoors, the threat of transmission is even greater. We have all had a long seven months,
but it's vital that we continue to follow the steps that we know can help mitigate the
spread of this virus: social distancing, wearing a mask, getting tested, and staying home
when you're sick. Additionally, if you've had close contact with someone who has
had COVID-19, please self-quarantine.
As we move into the middle of October, the question of Halloween and trick-or-treating has
come up frequently. On Monday, October 5th, the Governor reported that Halloween is on!
The NJDOH has sent out guidance, which has been posted on the Mendham Township
website<http://www.mendhamtownship.org/documents/Halloween%20Guidance%20…df>,
that those who plan to trick-or-treat should limit their groups to current household
members. It is also recommended that you stay local. I know many of you travel outside
your neighborhoods or our town to go trick-or-treating. This year, if possible, please
consider staying local and trick-or-treating in your neighborhood.
For those putting out treats, do your best to limit your interaction with the
trick-or-treaters. One option that the NJDOH has detailed is to arrange individually
packaged candy so that trick-or-treaters can grab and go without accessing a shared bowl.
Alternatively, you can leave a treat bowl in a place where it may be easily accessed while
adhering to social distancing requirements. If you don't feel comfortable with those
options, please wear a mask when individuals come to your door, and regularly wash your
hands and/or wear gloves.
I know there are some households that are not comfortable with engaging in Halloween
festivities this year. We are working with our Mendham Township Police Department to help
distinguish houses participating in trick-or-treating from those that do not wish to
participate. If you are a household that wishes to not participate, feel free to contact
me directly at sneibart@mendhamtownship.org<mailto:sneibart@mendhamtownship.org>.
Our Recreation Department is also putting together some social distancing Halloween
activities for kids during Halloween weekend which will be a great alternative to
trick-or-treating. Please keep an eye out for those during the next couple of weeks.
As you prepare your Halloween costumes, make sure a face covering is part of your costume.
Spirit Halloween
<https://www.spirithalloween.com/category/accessories/face-masks-gaitors/pc/1921/5177.uts>
has released a line of festive face masks for adults and children. Halloween is more than
just a fun activity, but a real tradition. We want to ensure that everyone has the chance
to enjoy Halloween in the most safe and responsible way possible.
Sarah Neibart
Mayor, Mendham Township