Editor’s note: During the course of a week, issues are covered that might not lend themselves to full editorial comment, but they are worthy of The Sunday Telegraph weighing in – thumbs up, thumbs down or neutral.

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Thumbs Up – To Nashua Mayor Jim Donchess for instituting a mandatory mask policy at city hall. The change took effect Wednesday, with Donchess noting the increase in cases since the beginning of August, coupled with the “continued substantial community transmission” in the city. Cases are increasing statewide. As of Wednesday, New Hampshire’s seven-day COVID-19 test positivity rate was 6%, the highest in New England. Donchess said that masks are currently required in the city Department of Public Health and Community Services offices, and in public areas of all Department of Public Works buildings. Masks also are required while riding city public transit buses, in line with federal guidelines, Donchess added. In addition, the Nashua Public Library instituted a mandatory mask policy for all staff and patrons. That goes into effect Monday. It’s good to see officials and others taking this seriously.

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Thumbs UP – And good luck to area high school athletic teams as they prepare for the upcoming prep season. Inside this week’s edition is our annual football tab, with boys and girls soccer and field hockey being previewed on the sports front. Other season previews will follow on www.nashuatelegraph.com. We wish local teams success this season, while keeping safety in mind due to the current COVID situation.

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