Dear ESF Community,
 
Earlier this week, Onondaga County hit a record high of 70 new cases of COVID-19 since the Coronavirus pandemic started. The county expects to break the record again today. Last night, I shared the news of the two new COVID-19 clusters at Syracuse University. It is our understanding that these spikes are related to large gatherings.
 
As a college, our efforts have been exemplary to date. But we have not crossed the finish line yet, and this weekend could very well be pivotal. Please, consider your plans carefully. I urge you to avoid events where more than five people are gathered and do not host an event for more than five people.
 
Here are some COVID-19 safe events for the weekend:
Rent a scary movie and watch with your housemates.
 
Carve pumpkins with a few friends or your housemates.
 
Dunkin' Halloween at the Park
What: The creators of Lights on the Lake, Fright Nights, and Lights on Jacob Lane have created a new drive-thru Halloween experience at Jamesville Beach Park. Cars will follow a lighted path to view ghosts, ghouls, witches, and more from your vehicle.
When: Through Oct. 31, every night from 7-10 p.m.
Where: Jamesville Beach Park, 3992 Apulia Rd. Jamesville, NY 13078 (Enter in Gate 3)
Price: $10 per vehicle Sunday-Thursday, $15 per vehicle Friday-Saturday; tickets are limited pre-sale only.
 
Haunted Corn Maze
What: Wagner Farms turns spooky with a haunted corn maze and walking trail, featuring a fiery pit, a creepy UFO base, and other socially distanced scares.
When: Fridays and Saturdays from 7-10 p.m. now through Oct. 31
Where: Wagner Farms, 5841 Old Oneida Rd, Rome, NY
Price: $5 per person
 
Please remember to follow all health and safety guidelines, including the following:
 
Thank you for your support and for taking your responsibilities for the health and safety of our community seriously.
 
Sincerely,
Joseph L. Rufo
Officer-in-Charge
CFO and Vice President for Administration