In Response To The COVID-19 Pandemic Los Angeles County Has

In Response To The Covid 19 Pandemic Los Angeles County Has Canceled

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Los Angeles County has canceled Halloween activities, including door-to-door trick-or-treating, trunk-or-treat events, public parties with non-household members, carnivals, festivals, haunted houses, and live entertainment. The authorities have issued guidelines aimed at limiting gatherings and contact, with potential penalties such as fines or jail for violations. Other counties, like San Bernardino, are also considering similar restrictions to prevent the spread of the virus.

Subject: [Your Class Section Number] - Support for Continued Halloween Celebrations in San Bernardino

Dear San Bernardino County COVID-19 Task Force,

I am writing to urge your office to consider permitting and supporting Halloween celebrations in San Bernardino this year, despite the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic. While public health and safety are paramount, I believe that with careful planning, community engagement, and the implementation of targeted safety measures, it is possible to hold festive activities that both protect health and bolster our local economy.

First, Halloween is a significant cultural event that fosters community spirit, especially after many months of social isolation caused by the pandemic. Halloween celebrations such as traditional trick-or-treating can be adapted to enhance safety protocols while still maintaining the festive atmosphere. For example, businesses and residents can organize contactless or fully outdoor trick-or-treat stations with pre-packaged candies, minimizing direct contact. Using portable gloves, masks, and hand sanitizer stations can further reduce the risk of transmission. These modifications can preserve a sense of normalcy and community engagement essential for mental health and social cohesion during difficult times.

Secondly, the economic importance of Halloween festivities cannot be overstated. Small businesses operating in our outdoor mall, including mine, rely heavily on seasonal sales to survive. The annual Halloween event generates substantial revenue, supports local employment, and sustains many small businesses. Canceling festivities could result in significant financial hardship, risking additional layoffs and closures. By allowing safe celebrations, we can help stimulate economic activity in a controlled manner. For instance, staggered hours, limited attendance, and outdoor-only events can help facilitate a responsible return to festive shopping and trick-or-treating, directly benefiting our local economy.

Third, community-driven safety campaigns can be integrated into the event planning process. This includes promoting the use of masks, social distancing, and hygiene practices among participants. Local businesses can create themed, socially distanced activities like outdoor pumpkin decorating contests, costume parades with intervals, or drive-by candy distribution points. These activities would contain the festive spirit while adhering to health guidelines. Moreover, community education campaigns emphasizing responsible behavior can foster cooperation and ensure that everyone participates safely and responsibly.

Furthermore, mental and emotional well-being should be considered in decision-making. The pandemic has caused increased stress, anxiety, and social disconnection among residents, especially children. Celebrations like Halloween can serve as a vital emotional outlet and a way for families to enjoy shared experiences safely. Allowing community-led, well-regulated festivities can lift spirits and reinforce a sense of normalcy and resilience within the community.

In conclusion, I respectfully advocate for the continuation of Halloween festivities in San Bernardino County under strict safety protocols. With careful planning, community participation, and adherence to public health guidelines, we can balance safety with social and economic needs. I believe that by doing so, we strengthen our community's unity and resilience during this challenging period.

Thank you for your attention and consideration.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

[Your Business Name]

[Your Contact Information]

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Considerations for Events and Gatherings. CDC.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/considerations-for-events.html
• San Bernardino County Public Health. (2020). COVID-19 Community Guidelines. sbcounty.gov.
• American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. (2020). Safe Event Planning in a Pandemic. ASHRAE Journal.
• Rosenfeld, K., & Thorson, S. (2020). Modifying Holiday Events for COVID-19 Safety. Journal of Public Health Management.
• World Health Organization. (2020). Considerations for mass gatherings in the context of COVID-19. WHO.int.
• National Retail Federation. (2020). Holiday Shopping and Seasonal Events Impact Report. NRF.org.
• American Public Health Association. (2020). Children and COVID-19: Celebrations and Social Activities. APHA.org.
• CDC. (2021). Holiday and Travel Safety Recommendations during COVID-19. CDC.gov.
• City of San Bernardino. (2021). Community Events and Safety Guidelines. CityofSanBernardino.gov.
• Thomas, P., & Johnson, L. (2020). Balancing Public Safety with Community Traditions During a Pandemic. Journal of Emergency Management.