November Monthly Message From Chatham Twp Mayor Stacey Ewald

"Last week was Diwali. To our residents who celebrated, I wish you a belated happy Diwali. May the light of Diwali fill your life and home with happiness and prosperity.

"Yesterday was Veteran’s Day and I had the honor of speaking at the Green Village Fire Department’s Annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony. In the words of Harry S. Truman, “Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude.” I hope our residents take time to reflect on and honor the sacrifice of our veterans and active service members.

"I also want to thank our Emergency Service members, including our Green Village Fire Department, the Chatham Township Fire Department, the Chatham Emergency Squad, and the Police Department. They’ve had an unusual number of fires to battle of late in the Township and have provided backup to nearby fire departments that have been busy battling NJ wildfires. Our fire departments and emergency medical services are all volunteer organizations. In these dry conditions, any and every fire becomes a serious risk to people and property and they’ve done a commendable job putting out fires and protecting our community.

"Please be mindful that we’re still in a drought watch and that NJ has issued Stage 3 Fire Restrictions. Our Environmental Commission has shared tips for conserving water on their Facebook page but you can also find information on the NJ American Water site and the NJ DEP site.

"Thank you to our Environmental Commission and all their volunteers for their day of service restoring the understory of the Oak Grove at Shunpike Field and for their continued efforts to keep the plants watered and healthy during the drought. Thank you also to our Events Committee for hosting a wonderful Fall Festival. We had a great turnout and a fun time was enjoyed by all. The Events Committee is also hosting our Winter Wonderland at the municipal building on December 12th at 6:30PM. It’s a wonderful event to celebrate the holidays and bring the community together. I look forward to seeing everyone there.

"As this is our only meeting in November and Thanksgiving will be here before we know it, I was to express my gratitude for our dedicated and talented Township staff and professionals, for my colleagues on the Township Committee, and for all the volunteers who give so much of their time to making Chatham Township a wonderful place to call home. I wish you all a Thanksgiving filled with family and friends, lots of good food, and lots of wonderful memories in the making."

- Chatham Township Mayor Stacey Ewald