The Garlick Press – Thursday, December 10, 2020

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Over the last month we have continued to see positive news regarding the progression of a COVID-19 vaccine. With multiple vaccine’s seeking approval, the COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan for Massachusetts was released on Wednesday. This plan takes place in three phases with the goal of distributing the vaccine starting with phase one this month, moving to phase two in February, and beginning phase three in April.

With this news comes a renewed sense of responsibility to remain vigilant against COVID-19. As we have been asked to do since March, we must continue to social distance, wear masks, and practice good hygiene. As cases continue to grow in Massachusetts and across the country we have to make the conscious effort to do our part and slow the spread.

Yours in Service,

Denise

• On Sunday, December 15 the Commonwealth will roll back to Step 1 in Phase 3 of Massachusetts Reopening. This will reduce capacity for many sectors and tighten workplace restrictions. Additionally, restaurants, gyms, and offices have additional guidelines to follow. To learn more, click here.
• If you have questions, input, or comments regarding the Reopening Massachusetts plan, you can submit comments online. These comments can be used by the Administration to support efforts to methodically reopen the economy amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here for the form.

• In Needham, the Town has worked with downtown businesses to create curbside pick-up spots in front of retailers and restaurants in Needham. There are 12 designated “curbside pickup zones” which are marked by red and white signs. To learn more, click here.
• In Dover, the Council on Aging provided 93 meals to seniors at the Holiday at Home Grab & Go at the Caryl Community Center. While in-person programing is on pause, the Council continues to provide support and offer programs. For information on the Council on Aging, click here.
• In Medfield, Winter Lights is a new 3/4 mile long drive-thru light display and decorations at the former Medfield State Hospital. This will take place between December 17 – 20 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM and tickets are $20 per vehicle. For more information, click here.

• Beginning Monday, December 14, the Commuter Rail will temporarily operate on a reduced service schedule due to low employee availability because of COVID-19 absences. Weekend trains will continue to operate on a regular schedule. For more information, click here.
• On Wednesday, the COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan for Massachusetts was released. For details of this plan, click here.
• On Tuesday, Governor Baker issued COVID-19 Order No. 57 which revises the current restrictions on gatherings in Massachusetts. The limit on outdoor gatherings will be reduced from 100 people to 50 people on Sunday, December 13. For more information, click here.
• The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs announced on Wednesday that drought conditions across Massachusetts have improved or held steady. All seven regions of the state are now designated Level 1 – Mild drought. For more information, click here.

• If you are in need of resources, information, or support, please visit my website for a list of resources. Additionally, our local boards of health, the Department of Public Health, and the Centers for Disease Control are continuing to maintain websites with the most updated information regarding COVID-19 that you can access here:
• Needham Health Department Updates
• Medfield Updates
• Dover Updates
• Department of Public Health: Click here or Call 2-1-1.
• Reopening Massachusetts
• COVID-19 Travel Order
• Centers for Disease Control