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The sun may have finally come out today, but the picture is a dank, grim one as far as soaring COVID-19 stats go for the state and area. It’s no April Fool’s joke. Solitude is the only thing that will squash the curve, state, county and local authorities repeat with veracity daily.

NJ Gov. Phil Murphy, in his daily briefing on the evermore pervasive virus, announced on early Wednesday afternoon that 22,255 NJ residents tested positive for the virus. There were 355 deaths and 30,387 negative test results. The stats come only from those who were symptomatic and tested. Testing has increased with the opening of new testing facilities.

In Monmouth County alone, there are now 1,301 who have tested positive and 24 deaths.

In Rumson, the count of those having tested positive for the virus has gone up to 17. In Fair Haven, the total has risen to 13. In Little Silver, the total is 17. And in Red Bank, the total is now 27. Middletown has the greatest number of people who have tested positive in the county — 127. Freehold has 101.

Stay safe. Stay home. The governor still recommends exercise and fresh air — at a distance. So, take in this view, courtesy of RFH grad, Doug Borden, breathe and reflect on the solace of a serene river scene. Nothing better.

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