Staff Are Now The Biggest COVID Spreaders In Nursing Homes
|
State figures report up to half the staff in some areas of New York are refusing the vaccine. That might lead to mandated vaccinations.
Health
Three-Quarters Of New Yorkers Plan To Get COVID Vaccine
|
“New York, and America have more to do in terms of educating the people about the vaccine and doing a campaign to encourage New Yorkers and Americans to get the vaccine.”
Government
Cuomo Presents Tale of Two Budgets, Threatens to Sue Federal Gov’t Over Aid Request
|
Cuomo said if Biden and the Democratic-led Congress don’t come through with the full amount he’s seeking, he will commence litigation.
Government
Schumer, Gillibrand Optimistic New Congress Will Pass COVID-Relief For States, Cities
|
“We’re going to act swiftly and decisively to provide direct federal aid so state, county and local governments can save tens of thousands of vital public service jobs.”
Government
Cuomo Seeks More COVID-19 Vaccines Through Deal With Pfizer
|
“The federal administration essentially opened up a floodgate while cutting our supply — leading to confusion, frustration, and dashed hopes.”
Vaccine Sign-Up Confusion Continues, Appointments Booked Through April
|
The Governor’s disclaimer recommends people eligible for the vaccine directly contact their local pharmacies, doctors’ offices and hospitals.
Health
Rollout Of COVID-19 Vaccines In Rural PA Requires Flexibility And Trust From Communities
|
A Kaiser Family Foundation report released last week found rural residents are among the most hesitant about vaccines.
App NEWS
Vaccine Rollout Begins For 1B Category With A Long Waitlist
|
First responders, people 75 and older, educators, and grocery store workers can now begin to schedule their vaccine appointments. But the wait to get the shot could take a while.
Government
New York Lawmakers Complain Vaccine Rollout “Extremely Disappointing”
|
Republican state lawmakers were vocal in their criticisms, saying the Cuomo administration was unprepared.
Government
For Cuomo, COVID-19 Is A ‘War’ And New York Is Winning
|
“We are at war — a war that started last year when we were ambushed by the COVID virus, and a war that continues today,”
Government
After Slow Rollout, New York Will Offer Vaccines At More Sites
|
Gov. Andrew Cuomo, bowing to pressure from local governments, is agreeing to expand the state’s vaccination sites for front-line health care workers.
Democrats, Unions Seek Workplace Protections Against Infectious Diseases through NY HERO Act
|
“We saw in the first big wave here in New York that the people who bore the brunt, the sacrifice and health problems, were the people who had to go to work.”
New York GOP Lawmakers Push Back Harder On Cuomo’s Emergency Pandemic Powers
|
“It would be one thing if he was making split-second decisions about procurement (of medical supplies), but I think we have moved well beyond the time when that resolution was necessary.”
County Leaders Seek Governor’s Cooperation As They Carry Out Vaccination Plans
|
They said Cuomo and the state health department are not providing data that they need and are leaving them out of key meetings.
Bills’ Parking Lot Becomes Massive COVID Testing Site
|
“You pull up. We verify who you are. You roll down your window. We swab you. Just a little nasal swab, not invasive. We then take that specimen with the requisition and we send it to our laboratory.”
Economy
New Paid Leave Law Could Help New York Slow Spread Of COVID-19
|
“This is really a very important step forward in fighting COVID and in fighting any other kind of illness.’
Government
With Holidays Over, COVID-19 Vaccination Effort Expected To Ramp Up
|
“Our hospitals and health care systems continue to be significantly challenged.”
More Contagious Strain Of COVID-19 Found In New York State
|
The governor said the man, in his 60s, works in a jewelry store, N. Fox Jewelers, in Saratoga Springs and that three other employees have also tested positive for the virus.
Health
Holiday Traffic At Syracuse Airport Down Significantly
|
“It’s nowhere near where we were last year at this time. We’re sitting roughly about 70% off where we were in 2019.”
Cuomo Won’t Get Vaccine Until His Group’s Turn In Black, Hispanic, Poor Communities
|
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said testing for COVID-19 was more readily available in richer, whiter communities in the state. He added: “This can’t happen again, and it can’t happen with this vaccine.”
Government
If They Don’t Act Faster, Cuomo Threatens To Cut Off Hospitals From Vaccination Program
|
Cuomo says the underperforming hospitals will face sanctions, including a fine of up to $100,000 if they don’t use up all of the vaccine they have in store by the end of the week.
In New York, Waiting For A COVID-19 Test Is A Business Opportunity
|
A business that traditionally provided line standers for Broadway shows and other events, now serves people who don’t want to wait hours outside a health clinic.
App NEWS
COVID-19 Impacts Steuben County Jail
|
During the week of Christmas, four staff members and 21 inmates at the Steuben County Jail tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
Economy
Despite Virus Spike, Governor Says 2021 Could Bring Reopenings
|
“2021 is going to be literally what we make of it. We’re coming out of probably the most traumatic year that we’ve had in decades.”
Crime and Justice
Statewide Ban On Prison Visitation In Effect
|
There are currently 3,914 COVID-19 cases among inmates, parolees, and corrections officers at state prisons, while 2,156 people have recovered.
Multiple Coronavirus Cases After Republican Christmas Party In New York
|
A video featuring unmasked attendees went viral last week on Twitter. On Wednesday, three individuals who were at the party were reported to have tested positive for the coronavirus.
Coronavirus Cancels NYC’s New Year Celebration
|
The virus interfering with end-of-year parties across the country. Even the traditional Times Square ball drop in New York City at midnight will be closed to the public and seen virtually.
Government
In 2020, The Pandemic Was The Only Story
|
“There will be a New Year, I can’t say that it won’t be worse, because now, I don’t know.”
New York Employers Could Mandate COVID-19 Vaccine, According To Updated Federal Guidelines
|
“I don’t think an anti-vaxxer would have a good claim if they were fired for refusing to take a vaccine.”
Prison Visitations Suspended Statewide As COVID Cases Surge
|
“We recognize that visitation is a vital part of family reunification and therefore, we will resume it when safe to do so.
Education
Socially-Distant Holidays Tough On Kids
|
While adults can make a distinction that changes in tradition are for the greater good, kids don’t have that level of cognitive awareness.
Government
Cuomo Hopes Virus Spike Is An Aberration
|
New York state’s positivity rate for the coronavirus jumped to 8.3%, according to the latest numbers released Monday by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Cuomo To Extend Eviction Protections For Tenants Through New Year
|
ALBANY, NY (WCNY) – Tenants in New York will be granted another reprieve in the new year, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Wednesday, with an extension of an executive order that prevents landlords from evicting tenants who’ve faced financial hardship both during and before the COVID-19 pandemic. The extension, however, may be moot: Democrats in the state Legislature are considering a special session next week to codify and expand a moratorium on residential evictions. Details on what the Legislature may pass haven’t been released, and legislation hadn’t been introduced as of Wednesday afternoon. But Democrats who control both the state Senate and Assembly have been hinting at an end-of-year return to Albany for weeks now. Some of the state’s current protections for tenants expire on Jan.
Here Are Four Ways 2020 Will Shape PA Politics Moving Forward
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PHILADELPHIA, PA (WITF) – It’s not easy to recognize important historical moments while they’re happening. But 2020 has been a year marked by disaster and debacle. It has featured a deadly global pandemic, a reckoning over racism in the wake of several Black Americans killed by police, and a tense, litigious election. Looking back, historians, political insiders, and on-the-ground organizers agree that the last 12 months or so will leave an indelible impression. “I don’t know a historian right now who isn’t still kind of in shock,” said Timothy Lombardo, a Philadelphia-born historian of conservative politics.
Government
Here’s What PA Hospital Heads Say About Masks, Business Closures And New Health Measures
|
There is “universal support” overall, but some disagreement on specifics.
Government
Cuomo Says Shutdown Can Be Avoided if Behaviors Change
|
Hospitalization rates are steadily rising. More than 6000 New Yorkers are in the hospital with COVID-19, and more than 1000 are in intensive care.
Education
‘We Knew It Was Inevitable’: PA Child Care Centers Wrestle With COVID Surge
|
Child care centers in Pennsylvania are facing a dark winter. With coronavirus cases surging, and government relief aid far reduced from the early days of the pandemic, providers are struggling as they navigate how to stay afloat financially while keeping the children they serve and their staffs safe.
Economy
Cuomo Warns of Total Shutdown if Virus Rate is Not Controlled
|
“If we do not change the trajectory, we could very well be headed to shutdown, and shutdown is something to worry about.”
Government
New York’s First COVID-19 Vaccine Given To NYC Nurse
|
“I know how horrific it was. It was a modern day battlefield. What you do, showing up every day, you really are heroes.”
Education
COVID-19 Delays High-Risk High School Sports, Cancels Winter State Championships
|
“Hopefully we will get to a place where the numbers go down and we can find a way to offer these opportunities for our student athletes and community.”
App NEWS
WATCH: Governor’s Friday COVID Briefing At 11:30 A.M. On WSKG Radio
|
Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on the State’s COVID-19 Response and Makes an Announcement
Food and Farms
Indoor Dining Banned In NYC, But Cuomo Adds Home Gatherings Are The Biggest Virus Spreaders
|
Governor Andrew Cuomo unveiled details of what he calls the “winter plan” for limiting the spread of COVID-19 in New York State.
Food and Farms
Amid COVID-19 Resurgence, PA Governor Halts Indoor Dining And Limits Gatherings
|
The new public health measures come as COVID-19 cases near all-time highs and hospital intensive care units are nearing capacity.
App NEWS
If Congress Does Not Approve Relief Package, Cuomo Predicts Dire Consequences
|
“I believe we’re going to have to raise taxes at the end of the day, in any event, but the question is, how much in taxes?”
App NEWS
Cuomo: Vaccines Could Arrive As Early As This Weekend
|
Cuomo says undocumented immigrants who receive a vaccine will not have to release any personal data that might trigger deportation.
App NEWS
Some Workers Don’t Want The COVID-19 Vaccine, But Employers Could Mandate It
|
U.S. employers will be able to require their employees to get a COVID-19 vaccine unless the employee has reasonable medical or religious objections.
App NEWS
New PA Data Shows How Pandemic Gave A Boost To Cyber Charter Schools
|
While public schools in urban and suburban counties have lost students, schools in more rural counties have largely tread water.
Food and Farms
New York Restaurants Say Governor’s New Rules Will Permanently Close More Doors
|
Restaurant owners are finding Governor Andrew Cuomo’s new criteria difficult to decipher, and worry it will mean more eateries will soon be out of business.
App NEWS
New Restrictions On Indoor Dining Likely Next Week, Cuomo Says
|
“Overwhelming the hospital system means people die on a gurney in a hallway, and the life you could’ve saved you can’t save because you don’t have the staff, you don’t have the doctors, you don’t have the nurses.”
App NEWS
Barbers, Salons In Orange Zones Petition New York State To Reopen
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“Nobody’s giving us any direction. We don’t have the unemployment thing in place, we don’t have the other supports that were in place the last time they shut us down, they’re just like, ‘You gotta close.’ ”
App NEWS
State Senate Dems Offer $4 Billion Pandemic Relief Plan
|
“We know that we can’t depend upon the federal government, given the fact that we’ve been waiting for them to respond to this crisis for months now.”
Government
Cuomo Calls Latest Federal Relief Plan by Dems A Downpayment On What’s Owed
|
“It doesn’t come near to the need. It would be a short term bill until March. I would urge them to get this first down payment bill before they leave.”
App NEWS
As COVID-19 Cases Soar, PA Hospitals Are Running Out Of ICU Beds And Health Care Workers
|
With almost 5,000 Pennsylvanians hospitalized due to COVID-19, some hospitals are out of beds.
Economy
Restaurants In New York Struggle As Pandemic, And The Cold Weather, Intensifies
|
“I would consider it shameful that our federally elected representatives have not been able to come together to provide some type of meaningful assistance.”
Government
In Spite Of Challenges, New York Hospitals Recruit Retired Nurses
|
Retired nurses could relieve some stress and handle any holiday-related increase in cases of the coronavirus and in distributing vaccines should they become available.
Government
170,000 Doses Of COVID-19 Vaccine Comes To New York In Two Weeks
|
Front line health care workers and nursing home residents will be among the first to receive it.
App NEWS
Cuomo Writes Trump, Biden; Raises Concerns About Vaccination Rollout
|
“Just like we went through with the COVID tests, they’re underserved by health care facilities and their rate of skepticism is higher. It’s going to be an extensive effort to outreach to Black, brown and poor communities.”
Government
More Pennsylvanians Hospitalized With COVID-19 Now Than During Spring Peak
|
The state’s average test positivity rate is nearly 12%
Reed, Problem Solvers Part Of Bipartisan Group Pushing COVID Relief Package
|
Their plan is a temporary four month emergency relief package only meant to last from December 1st to March 31st.
App NEWS
Cuomo Tells Hospitals To Prepare More Beds For COVID-19 Patients
|
“We are not going to live through the nightmare of overwhelmed hospitals again.”
To Prevent Evictions, Reed Says Congress Considering Housing Assistance
|
“A lot of the landlords are small business owners or just mom-and-pop folks who may have a couple of that they picked up and they’re using it for side income.”
Supreme Court Says New York Can’t Limit Attendance In Houses of Worship Due To COVID
|
“Even in a pandemic, the constitution cannot be put away and forgotten.”
Government
As Coronavirus Surges, Governor Imposes Tighter Restrictions On Portions Of New York State
|
“These numbers have kept me awake for many, many , many nights. People get infected, they go into the hospital, they go into the ICU.”
App NEWS
WATCH: New Yorkers Warned To Take Precautions Against COVID-19 This Thanksgiving
|
New York’s rate of the virus has been creeping up through the fall, though the state is still at a significantly lower rate than most of the nation.
App NEWS
COVID-19 Data Trending Toward Tougher Restrictions for Some Areas, Cuomo Says
|
Part of Manhattan, Staten Island, Rochester, Syracuse, and Long Island could face new, or stronger, restrictions if the positivity rates in those areas don’t decline in the coming days.
Economy
Unemployment Ticks Down Statewide, But Up Outside New York City
|
While the unemployment rate in the five boroughs dropped to 13.2% in October, the rate outside New York City went up from 6.6% in September to 6.9% in October.
Economy
Businesses Plead With New York Officials To Avoid Wider Economic Shutdowns
|
“Let’s not do these massive shutdowns of gyms or shopping malls or restaurants. That will just crush the economy more.”
Government
New York Governor Places New Restrictions On Hot Zones; NYC Closes Schools
|
Cuomo has set a limit of 10 or fewer people at in-home gatherings. But some county sheriffs in the state have said they don’t plan to enforce those rules, saying it’s a violation of people’s privacy.
Economy
$1 Billion In Relief Aid Is Tied Up In Harrisburg As PA Businesses Face More COVID-19 Pain
|
As coronavirus cases soar in Pennsylvania, state lawmakers face a looming deadline to spend $1.3 billion in federal pandemic relief that the commonwealth received in early spring, but still hasn’t used.
budget
Tompkins Co. Legislature Passes $52 Million 2021 Budget
|
The budget is about a 6 percent decrease from 2020.
Education
Pandemic Pushes Back Start Date For Higher-Risk High School Winter Sports
|
“We must remain steadfast in our decisions to ensure the safety of our athletes is our focus.”
App NEWS
For The First Time Since June, COVID-19 Hospitalizations Now Exceed 2,000 In New York
|
“Despite our success in managing the spread, New York is not immune to this national surge of COVID.”
Education
Syracuse University Hopes To Bring Students Back To Campus In January
|
“We didn’t have big parties, etc. But we did have too many gatherings of too many people in ways that were not necessarily safe given the COVID situation.”
Featured in Category
Binghamton University Classes To Go Remote For Rest Of Semester
|
The suspension of in-person classes and extracurricular activities begins Wednesday, Nov. 17 and will last through the end of the semester.
Economy
Supermarkets Ration Some Purchases
|
There may not be the same level of shelf-clearing seen last spring, but supermarkets, like Wegmans and Tops, continue to limit purchases of certain items.
App NEWS
New York May Sue Trump Over Vaccine Plan
|
“Let’s look at the law. There can be no more fundamental right in this moment than access to the vaccine.”
App NEWS
In Tompkins County, Small Gatherings Fuel Rise In COVID-19 Clusters
|
Thirty people tested positive for COVID-19 in a single day in Tompkins County. That is a significant increase.
Government
NY Senate Leader Says No Plans For Special Session, Urges State Spending
|
“So far we have been able to keep the budget balanced while minimizing the impact on New Yorkers and fighting the pandemic.”
Economy
Governor Orders New Restrictions On New York Bars, Restaurants, Gyms, Home Gatherings
|
Social dining, whether indoors or outdoors, is one of three “main spreaders of COVID.” He urged local authorities to enforce the new rules.
Government
NY COVID-19 Hospitalizations, Cases Reach Levels Not Seen Since Spring
|
The number of people diagnosed with COVID-19 also reached a new high in the latest wave of the virus, with nearly 4,000 cases reported Tuesday — the most since early May.
covid
“It’s The Right Thing To Do”: GOP Congressman Recognizes Biden As President-Elect
|
“Joe Biden has rightfully earned the title of being the projected president-elect and that should be recognized,” Rep. Reed said.
App NEWS
SUNY Students Will Get COVID-19 Tests Before Thanksgiving Break
|
“We want to make sure, as our students are leaving and departing our system and campuses, they’re not carrying the virus home.”
Government
As COVID-19 Rates Rise in New York, Cuomo Warns Of Coming Months
|
“Why do we have such a disparity in the infection rate and the mortality rate in COVID? Because some communities don’t have the same access to health care.”
App NEWS
New COVID Restrictions Likely For Upstate Microclusters, Cuomo Says
|
“Western New York is a problem,” Cuomo said. “They are lower than states surrounding us, but relative to New York, they are the highest spots in New York.
Education
Pandemic Forces New York State ToCancel January 2021 Regents Exams
|
State officials determined that the January Regents Exams could not be safely, equitably and fairly administered across the State given where the pandemic currently stands.
Health
Online Sessions On Pandemic, Post-Election And Pre-Holidays Stress
|
“I want to be able to disagree with one another, to speak our truth. But I want to do it in a way that I don’t feel contempt or feel tempted to dehumanize the other person.”
App NEWS
Update: Reed Wins Re-Election In NY-23
|
Reed faced Democrat Tracy Mitrano for a second consecutive time.
Government
Cuomo: Trump Administration Could Use Vaccine Data For Deportation
|
“Why would you possibly need someone’s social security number, ID number, or passport number before they receive a vaccine? There is no legitimate health reason.”
covid
At SUNY Cortland No More In-Person Classes This Semester
|
Students who wish to leave must test negative before returning home.
Government
Governor, Attorney General Say Federal Vaccine Plan Ignores Communities of Color
|
“COVID has revealed from the very beginning the underlying injustice and inequity in this society.”
board of elections
How Early Are Early Votes Counted?
|
“I wanted my vote to be counted right away and not after the Election Day.”
Government
Cuomo: White House Vaccine Plan ‘Deeply Flawed’
|
Cuomo said the plan was “deeply flawed,” and would create a bottleneck in the demand for the vaccine.
Arts & Culture
On Election Day, Poll Shows Over Half of PA Voters Will Cast Ballots In-Person
|
More than three-fourths of Republicans are planning to vote in person, while a majority of Democrats said they have or will cast a mail-in ballot.
App NEWS
New York Might Transfer Vulnerable Inmates From Elmira Prison, Cuomo Says
|
“There is a problem in Elmira. We are already taking special measures for members of the population who may be vulnerable. They’re getting additional safety precautions within the facility.”
Education
SUNY Mandates COVID-19 Tests For Students Before Thanksgiving Break
|
Next month, all SUNY campuses must test any student who comes on campus for COVID-19.
ACA
WATCH: In Their Only Debate, NY-23 Challenger Calls GOP Congressman Liar, Untrustworthy
|
“I do not believe you can be trusted on this question, Mr. Reed,” said Democratic challenger Tracy Mitrano.
App NEWS
Hoping To Quell COVID’s Spread, Former Inmates Ask Governor To Release More Prisoners
|
“These inmates are being denied treatment, they are being denied access to their families.”
covid
Keuka College To Remain Remote For The Rest Of The Semester
|
The school originally moved online this month.
Government
Cuomo Continues Attacks On White House For Its COVID-19 Leadership
|
For the second day in a row, Cuomo fumed President Donald Trump is giving up, and as a result, 160,000 more Americans could die of the disease by February.
App NEWS
For First Time Since June, New York Reports Over 1,000 COVID-19 Hospitalizations
|
Hospitalizations were up to 1,023 on Thursday, according to data released by Gov. Andrew Cuomo Friday. Exactly one month ago Friday, hospitalizations were at 490 in New York.
App NEWS
While New York Fights To Control COVID-19; Cuomo Claims Trump Surrendered
|
“They could have controlled the virus, we are still controlling the virus, look at the numbers going up all across the nation, we are still controlling the virus, they believed you can’t control the virus, they capitulated, they surrendered.”
Government
New York Could Replace Out-Of-State Quarantines With Targeted Tests
|
“There’s new testing technology, there are rapid tests, is there a better, smarter way to handle a quarantine? None of this has been done before, so we’re figuring it out as it goes.”
cortland county
SUNY Cortland Extends Pause Of In-Person Classes
|
So far, 55 students have been suspended or banned from campus because of COVID violations.
App NEWS
Nursing Homes Relied On Lawns And Patios For Visits. What Will Happen This Winter?
|
“There’s the excitement of seeing her, and then the 30 minutes goes faster than you could ever imagine, and then when they wheel her away, it’s very tough.”
Arts & Culture
Pandemic Prompts Salvation Army To Start Holiday Fundraiser Early
|
“It’s definitely a perfect storm with the increased need, stores starting to close, and the donations potentially being fewer, which is why we’re really extending this campaign.”
App NEWS
PA Health Officials Warn Against False Vaccine Claims Made By Two State Lawmakers
|
Both President Donald Trump and Democrat Joe Biden have pointed to a COVID-19 vaccine as key to ending the pandemic.
App NEWS
Pennsylvania Qualifies for New York’s Quarantine List, But Travel Can Continue
|
New York will not restrict travel from Pennsylvania because of the number of people who go back and forth for business each day.
Government
LGBTQ People Go Undocumented In New York State’s COVID-19 Health Data
|
New York state recently changed health forms to better reflect transgender and non-binary people, but, public health experts say the change fails to capture the full picture.
Government
Cuomo: Vaccine Plan Leaves Lots Of Blanks
|
Also unanswered, said Cuomo, is how the vaccine will be funded, and whether states will be reimbursed for costs.
Government
Cuomo Parses Pandemic Stats
|
“We have flare-ups because in this state we have a microscope, and the other states don’t have a microscope. If you don’t have a microscope, you don’t see a lot of things.”
App NEWS
New York’s Vaccine Plan Prioritizes Essential Workers, High-Risk People
|
“This is a larger operational undertaking, I would argue, than anything we have done during COVID to date. And we need the federal government to be a competent partner with this state and every state.”
Government
County Leaders Say New York State’s Failing To Help With Pandemic
|
“Seven months in now, our local health departments are short-staffed. We’re working overtime, and we’re being folded into this newest initiative without any proper support, any funding or any guidance.”
App NEWS
When A Vaccine Comes, Cuomo Says The Nation Will Need A Clear Inoculation Plan
|
The governors want to know about funding to help pay for mass vaccinations, and how a vaccine supply chain would function.
Books
Cuomo’s New Book Chronicles COVID-19 Crisis, Conflict With Trump
|
The book, titled ‘American Crisis,’ is Cuomo’s attempt to convince readers that New York formed a competent response to the pandemic, while characterizing President Donald Trump and his administration as careless and dismissive to the virus.
Government
Families Of Nursing Home Residents Want More Access
|
“I was not only unable to see her, not even technologically through a digital device, the nursing home, when I called, was nonresponsive,”
Government
New York’s Governor Threatens To Withhold State Funds Unless Shutdown Orders Are Enforced
|
“Because nothing else I have done has motivated them, maybe money works.”
App NEWS
Tompkins County Reports First COVID-19 Death
|
The death occurred almost seven months to the day the county announced it was closing all schools to slow the spread of the virus.
App NEWS
Tracing Potential COVID-19 Cases In Ithaca Schools
|
The Ithaca City School District began in-person classes this week.
Education
After Surge In Coronavirus Cases, Syracuse University Pauses Student Activities
|
Syracuse University officials said late Tuesday that the number of students who have tested positive for COVID-19 in the last day has risen to 45. Most are associated with a off-campus parties that occurred last week.
Education
Cuomo Orders Some School Closures, Possible Ban On Religious Gatherings
|
Cuomo said he’s taking the steps because he does not want the hot spots to spread to the rest of the state.
Education
During Pandemic, Some Pennsylvanians Say Vouchers Can Boost Learning
|
Pennsylvania school-choice advocates are pushing hard for a measure that would send federal coronavirus relief money directly to families to put towards private school tuition, tutoring, or other educational expenses.
App NEWS
NYC To Close Businesses In Parts Of Brooklyn And Queens As Virus Takes Hold Again
|
Facing an increase in coronavirus infections in certain neighborhoods, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Sunday that he would close all nonessential businesses, public and private schools.
App NEWS
PA Governor Begins Enforcement Of New Restaurant Dine-In Rules
|
“Restaurant self-certification is just one tool in the toolbox we can use to increase customer competence, protect ourselves, and grow our businesses.”
Government
New York State Ramps Up Enforcement in COVID-19 Clusters
|
The statewide infection rate, including the 20 hotspot zip codes, was 1.1% Saturday, Cuomo said. There were 14 new deaths and, after several days of increases, total hospitalizations dropped to 618, according to state data.
binghamton
Local Governments Could Be Fined $10K Per Day For Not Enforcing COVID Rules
|
“If the local governments don’t step up the compliance, they will actually be in violation of the law and they can be fined.”
covid
O’Mara, Danks Burke Face Questions on Climate Change, Homelessness
|
This is the second time Danks Burke has challenged O’Mara to represent the 58th senate district. Geographically, the district is the largest in the state senate.
Government
Smartphone App Warns Of Contact With COVID Carriers
|
“The COVID-Alert New York does not track your location, your movement or use GPS. It does not collect or store any personal information. It is completely anonymous.”
Government
New York Governor Acts To Contain COVID-19 Clusters
|
“These are embers that are starting to catch fire in dry grass. Send all the firefighting equipment and personnel to those embers, and stamp out the embers right away.”
Government
New York Governor Asks Governments To Reopen Homeless Shelters
|
“Not only is a homeless encampment a violation of that homeless person’s dignity, it’s also a public health threat.”
App NEWS
Cuomo: Pause On Evictions Extended Through 2020
|
“I want people to have fundamental stability in their lives. Nobody’s going to be evicted because of housing.”
Government
Cuomo Takes Steps To Control COVID-19 Clusters
|
Some of the zip codes coincide with areas that have large Orthodox Jewish populations, and some of those communities have been cited in the past for holding large gatherings, like weddings, in violation of COVID-19 social distancing restrictions.
Health
Latest COVID-19 Numbers In New York State “Relatively Flat”
|
The numbers released on Sunday (looking at Saturday’s testing) show the Finger Lakes with a .7% infection rate, up slightly from the .4% of the previous two days.
Government
Governor Will Await Federal Relief Before Closing New York’s State Deficit
|
“If we were not in this governmental structure I would sue the federal government for gross negligence.”
Government
Pandemic Leads To Rise in ‘Welfare Check’ Calls In Tompkins County
|
“Throughout this pandemic I think mental illness, depression, anxiety has increased.”
Government
Several States Added To New York’s COVID Travel Advisory
|
Of the 83,997 test results reported to New York state on Monday, 754, or 0.89 percent, were positive.
App NEWS
Pandemic Spreads From Church To Chemung County Jail
|
“I think when we get complacent in society after a period of time, we, you know, forget about the value of the little things that we need to do, like wearing a mask.”
App NEWS
COVID-19 Tanked Hotels. Workers Of Color Feel The Biggest Squeeze
|
“I don’t even know what that’s like, having to actually go fill out an application to try to get another job, and fit in somewhere,” said Swain. “Starting over, like that’s just so crazy.”
App NEWS
One Death Linked To Church COVID Cluster In Chemung County
|
“Certainly, we are working very hard behind the scenes to make sure we can get people in contact with doctors if they need it and things like that, if they need it.”
Government
Revised Assisted Care Policy Could Reunite Many New York Families
|
“It’s depressing because you know that the families and the residents are lonely.”
U.S.-Canada Border Remains Closed
|
“This Administration has to understand that we won’t have a healthy economy until we have a healthy country and that starts with taking this virus seriously.”
Pennsylvania Officials Stand By Pandemic Response After Judge Rules Against Orders
|
The governor and health secretary want residents to guard against the virus as a federal judge calls stay-at-home and business closure orders — since lifted — unconstitutional.
No Permanent Solution In Sight For New York State’s Huge Budget Deficit
|
The governor has temporarily held back 20% in aid payments to schools, local governments and others, under emergency powers granted to him by the State Legislature.
Education
Teachers Union Calls School Aid Cuts ‘Unconstitutional’ in Lawsuit Against Cuomo
|
NEW YORK NOW – The state’s largest teachers union filed a lawsuit on Wednesday against Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the state Division of Budget over more than $5 billion in state spending that’s expected to be withheld from school districts as the state grapples with an unprecedented budget crisis.
Government
PA Governor Renews Calls For Election Code Changes, Criticizes Republicans Over Pandemic Response
|
The governor wants the deadline to send out vote-by-mail applications moved up, among other things.
Pandemic Prompts Possible 12% Budget Cut In Tompkins County
|
“The numbers are probably going to obscure some real misery, a sort of invisible misery in this community. We still have almost 10% unemployment.”
Cuomo: Halloween Trick-Or-Treating Left To Parents
|
“If you want to go knock on your neighbor’s door, God bless you and I’m not going to tell you not to. If you want to go for a walk with your child through the neighborhood, I’m not going to tell you, you can’t take your child to the neighborhood. I’m not going to do that.”
Economy
‘Worst Year Ever’ For Upstate Hotels, Some Down 60-70%
|
“It is very stressful. It’s been six months now that we haven’t had the revenue in the stream. It’s been a difficult time.”
App NEWS
Student Leaders Hold Virtual Town Hall On Higher Education’s Response To COVID
|
Catherine Huang, a Cornell senior, said some of the work of educating students is being done by students on social media.
New York’s Largest Teachers Union Threatens Lawsuit Over State Funding Cuts
|
“Instead of a frivolous lawsuit, NYSUT should turn its attention to Washington and work with us to get the assistance New York’s children deserve.”
App NEWS
After COVID-19 Uptick On Oswego Campus, SUNY Chancellor Says There’s ‘No Cause For Alarm’
|
“We want to keep students here and operating. If there has to be some mitigation efforts taken, we will keep students here as much as we can. But, we all have to remain vigilant.”
Food and Farms
Indoor Dining Can Resume in New York City on Sept. 30, Cuomo Says
|
Thousands of restaurants in the five boroughs have three weeks to prepare their establishments to comply with the state’s guidance for reopening.
App NEWS
Cuomo: Donald Trump Caused the COVID Outbreak in New York
|
The war of words between Gov. Andrew Cuomo and President Donald Trump escalated again Monday, with both accusing the other of attempting to destroy the economic viability of New York City, and the state, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
SUNY Chancellor Calls New COVID-19 Testing A ‘Game Changer’
|
“I think that technology has really helped us. It’s an inexpensive technology. It’s a student-friendly and a faculty-friendly technology.”
Economy
New York Farms Prepare For Fall Activities With New Precautions
|
“We’ve been planning this all for a while, so the regulations were about what we thought they were gonna be.”
New York State Marks COVID-19 Milestone
|
New York State marked a milestone of progress in fighting coronavirus infections on Monday, with a full month of fewer than 1% of virus tests coming back positive.
Government
Gillibrand Pushes For $25 Billion In Aid For The U.S. Post Office
|
“The U.S. Postal Service is the only institution that is in the Constitution, that it’s a right for the American people to receive their mail. What he’s doing is illegal, inappropriate, unethical and wrong.”
App NEWS
PA Child Care Advocates Fear New State Policy Will Break The Industry
|
It’s the latest stress the industry has faced since COVID-19 turned the child care sector upside down in March.
App NEWS
Cuomo: New York Casinos Can Reopen, But Not Indoor Dining in NYC
|
Casinos in New York will be allowed to reopen next Wednesday, Sept. 9, as long as they have a sufficient air filtration system and limit the number of people allowed in the facility at one time, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Thursday.
COVID Cases Among Cornell Athletes Prompts Increased Restrictions
|
Student gatherings are now restricted to no more than 10 people.
Health
Poll Finds New Yorkers Bracing For A COVID Resurgence This Fall
|
Over half say they are wary of eating indoors at a restaurant, having a drink at bar, watching a movie in a theater, working out at the gym, or going bowling.
App NEWS
Efforts Underway To Recruit Poll Workers
|
“Young people can help our elections and make some extra money by becoming poll workers and relieve the pressure on our older poll workers.”
Education
New York Teachers Seek Mask Mandate For Classrooms
|
Masks are strongly recommended at all other times, including in the classroom, but they are not mandatory once the student is sitting down at a socially distanced desk.
Health
New York State Health Officials Approve Saliva Diagnostic Test To Track COVID-19
|
“Now, we cannot just know what’s going on, we can help better pinpoint the virus, address the virus, contain the virus.”
Government
Governor Extends Pennsylvania’s Disaster Proclamation
|
For the next 90 days, public rules on masks and social distancing, as well as relaxed rules on unemployment insurance and professional certification will remain in place.
Could More SUNY Schools Close Due To COVID-19?
|
“So you wanted a party. OK, now you have to go to remote learning, which means you basically stay in the dorm. It’s a function of discipline and compliance.”
Education
SUNY Geneseo Suspends Student Organizations For Violating COVID-19 protocols
|
The three organizations suspended include the Theta Chi and Zeta Beta Xi fraternities and the Sigma Delta Tau sorority.
Arts & Culture
Despite Pain Of Canceled New York State Fair, Allure Continues In New Ways
|
“We had a great fair planned, a really great fair. Great music. Changing things up again programmatically, we were doing everything we could to keep drawing numbers.”
Crime and Justice
Police And Prison Guards Demand Compliance, Making Matters Worse For Pennsylvanians With Serious Mental Illness
|
Use of force reports from Bucks County jail offer a glimpse into a criminal justice system unequipped to deal with people who may be having a crisis.
With Fans Forbidden Due To COVID-19, A Noticeably Quiet U.S. Open Kicks Off In Queens
|
Tennis players are navigating the eerie stillness of a Grand Slam event known for its lively crowds. Last year’s U.S. Open set an attendance record, drawing more than 737,800 fans over two weeks.
Government
COVID-19 Hospitalizations, Intubations Drop To New Lows In New York
|
“Our ability to keep this deadly virus in check will be determined by what each of us does each day and by the capacity of local governments to enforce state guidance.”
Crime and Justice
Education Advocates Consider Court Action Against 20% Cut In State Aid
|
“That constitutional right doesn’t go on hold because there are financial constraints, because the state is having financial difficulties. This is a constitutional right.”
Education
As School Begins, Looming ‘Deluge’ Of Evictions Threatens Thousands Of PA Families
|
“I got boxes I’m staring at every day. My kids are staring at it. They’re like, ‘When are we gonna find a place to go?’”
App NEWS
Coronavirus Vaccine Researchers Recruiting People Of Color For Tests. It’s Not Easy.
|
As researchers work to test a potential novel coronavirus vaccine on a diverse set of study participants, they’re also being confronted by a history of distrust between communities of color and medical researchers.
App NEWS
PA Governor And GOP Lawmakers At Odds Over Election Code Changes
|
“We’re all trying to figure out, ‘How can the counties have the responsibility for making sure the count is accurate and as timely as possible?”
App NEWS
New York Sets COVID-19 Case Threshold for Closing Colleges
|
Colleges in New York will be required to return to remote learning for at least two weeks if either 100 cases of COVID-19 are diagnosed, or 5% of that institution’s population tests positive, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Thursday.
App NEWS
New York Schools Increasingly Worried Over Deep State Budget Cuts
|
“I will be a catastrophe. Many school districts depend just about totally on state aid to get their programs running.”
Despite Governor’s Decision, Fall Season For High School Sports Uncertain
|
New York State is expected to make additional announcements about high risk winter sports like basketball, hockey, wrestling and cheerleading in the coming months.
Trump Administration Considers Civil Rights Probe Over New York Nursing Home Deaths
|
“It’s no coincidence the moment the Trump administration is caught weakening the CDC’s COVID-19 testing guidelines to artificially lower the number of positive cases, they launched this nakedly partisan deflection.”
New York’s Governor Condemns New CDC Guidelines
|
Shame on the people in the CDC. These will be indefensible actions in the light of history.”
Economy
Without Child Care Bailout, Workforce Could Lose Women
|
White House counselor Kellyanne Conway announced she was stepping down from her position to look after her family. Working families across the country are figuring out how to provide care for their children with remote and hybrid schooling this year.
Health
Infections Expert Concerned With FDA Authorization Of Convalescent Plasma To Treat COVID-19
|
“When is the optimal time to treat them? And what’s the dose that they should receive? And how many doses should they receive or how many days should they be treated? What are some nuances of patients that could benefit from a standard course of therapy?”
Pennsylvania Governor Calls For State To Legalize Marijuana, Citing Pandemic
|
Gov. Tom Wolf calls for some of the revenue from marijuana sales to go toward “repairing the harm done to crime victims and communities as a result of marijuana criminalization.”
Education
Syracuse University Conducts 13,000 Saliva Tests , Plans Outdoor Movies, Other Events
|
“We’ve administered over 13,000 saliva tests just in the last eight days alone,” Haynie said.
mental health
Mental Health Association Expands School Wellness Resources
|
Amy Molloy with the association said mental health and social-emotional learning should be top priorities for schools as they reopen.
App NEWS
Cuomo Tweaks New Rules For Absentee Voting
|
Eventhough the new law essentially allows universal mail-in balloting, the Governor says New Yorkers might still be confused about how to actually request the absentee voting forms.
Musicians Urge Governor To Allow Live, Ticketed, Advertised Music Play Again
|
Under state guidelines released last week, ticketed live music is not permitted inside bars, restaurants and clubs.
Ithaca Teaching Aides Call For Option To Work Virtually
|
Teachers have been given the choice of returning to in-person teaching or teaching virtually. Teaching aides have not been given the same option.
New State Law Allows New York Voters To Request Absentee Ballots For November
|
Voters can begin requesting absentee ballots right away from their local elections boards, citing the reason that they fear risks of contracting the coronavirus or any other contagious illness.
Education
Syracuse University Suspends 23 Students After Large Campus Gathering
|
“Make no mistake, there was not a single student who gathered on the Quad [Wednesday] night who did not know and understand that it was wrong to do so.”
Cuomo Warns Coronavirus Is Far From Over
|
The New York Governor predicted that the flu season will put an added strain on the overburdened disease-testing system in the state and could lead to a further slowdown for obtaining timely results of coronavirus tests.
New York Teachers Union ‘Prepared To Strike’ If Safety Demands Are Not Met
|
The president of the city’s United Federation of Teachers called for testing every student and staff member before the start of school, set for Sept. 10.
Government
Bipartisan Coalition Pushes New Probe Into Nursing Home Deaths
|
Republicans in the state Legislature are hoping that support from a handful of Democrats on a bill to establish an independent probe into the state’s handling of nursing homes during the COVID-19 crisis will garner momentum for the measure.
App NEWS
Ahead Of 2020 Election, New York Scrambles For Solutions
|
In a rush to find answers, lawmakers and election officials alike are proposing a number of changes.
Government
A Decades-Old Law Shielding The Wolf Administration From Scrutiny Of Its Coronavirus Response
|
Officials are routinely citing the law to deny public records requests, but legal experts say the state can be more transparent — if it wants.
App NEWS
Cuomo Book On COVID-19 Response Out In October
|
Cuomo’s “American Crisis” will be released Oct. 13, three weeks before Election Day, when Trump is expected to face Democratic nominee Joe Biden.
App NEWS
New York Gyms Get The Green Light To Reopen, But Not Movie Theaters
|
“It is congregate, it’s one ventilation system, you’re seated there for a long period of time. Even if you are at 50% capacity, with one seat between the two of you, two seats between the two of you, this is a risky situation.”
To Stay In Business, New York City Restaurants Spill Out Onto The Asphalt
|
Many of New York’s streets have come alive with fenced-in dining areas with tables and umbrellas and decorated with flower boxes and hanging plants.
Government
Cuomo Rails Against Federal COVID-19 Response at DNC
|
Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who’s risen to national fame in recent months through daily televised briefings on New York’s response to the coronavirus, delivered a speech to Democrats in Wisconsin Monday intended to both unite the party and condemn the federal government.
Amid USPS Slowdown, Two State Lawmakers Support Absentee Ballot Drop Off Boxes
|
“If in fact we brought the boxes to them, and they had the ability to vote right at senior centers, right at community centers, then I think that’s the recipe for success.”
Bowling Alleys Open Today At 50% Capacity
|
“This pandemic is far from over, but we’ve determined that institutions can reopen if they adhere to strict state guidance and take every precaution to keep visitors safe.”
App NEWS
Are Antigen Tests The Silver Bullet To PA‘s Coronavirus Testing Delays? Not So Fast.
|
Here’s everything you need to know about the different coronavirus tests and what they can — and can’t — tell you.
App NEWS
New York’s Governor Takes Steps To Reopen Bowling Alleys, Gyms
|
There is no set date for gyms to reopen, but the governor says rules will be released on how they can do so safely.
U.S.-Canada Border Closure Extended Another Month
|
“We know that those numbers are suffering, especially on the tourism side. We live in an area that’s built on tourism, so you hate to see it.”
App NEWS
New York Gym Owners Want Specifics. Why Can’t They Reopen?
|
“We are willing to go by any guideline the governor is willing to tell us. The problem is there has been no communication. He has gone radio silent.”
Addiction
Inside Some PA Rehabs, ‘It’s Like COVID Doesn’t Exist’
|
When treatment facilities ignore coronavirus protocols, patients are forced to choose between recovery and safety.
Government
Relatives Of Nursing Home Residents Speak Out At Hearing
|
“I would have pulled my mom out of that facility. She would be alive today, actually, had we actually been informed.”
Government
New York Adds 2 States To COVID-19 Travel Advisory; Removes 4 Others
|
The newly-added states are Hawaii and South Dakota. Alaska, New Mexico, Ohio and Rhode Island have been removed.
PA Congressional Candidate Endorses Additional Federal Aid For Workers, Business Owners And Schools
|
“It can’t just fall on the teachers to figure it out, or even the local school districts,” said Griffin.
Upstate NY Poison Center Warns Of Serious Side Effects From Certain Hand Sanitizers
|
“You could go blind, you could go into a coma, you could have seizures. If anyone even thinks there’s a possibility they got into this product, they would want to call the poison center right away.”
Cuomo Recruits Kentucky’s Governor In Fight Against Trump’s Unemployment Payment
|
Kentucky is also the home state of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell. McConnell earlier this year suggested that states that lost revenue due to the pandemic should declare bankruptcy.
binghamton
Cuomo: Over 100 New York School Districts Have Not Filed Reopening Plans
|
The school district plans must include procedures and protocols for instruction, health screenings, and social distancing measures.
App NEWS
PA Legislature’s Delays Could Prompt Election Chaos In November
|
“If they get too far into the weeds or attempt to drop in other fixes now, my fear is nothing will get done.”
Education
New York Schools Will Reopen In The Fall, Cuomo Says
|
Gov. Andrew Cuomo formally gave schools the green light to reopen on Friday, saying the coronavirus infection rate was low enough in New York for students to return to class in the coming weeks.
Government
Cuomo Calls Trump’s Executive Unemployment Boost ‘Laughable’
|
Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Sunday said a provision of the President’s measure that requires states to foot part of the bill was unworkable.
Business Group Names Governor, Legislature and Attorney General In Lawsuit
|
“The constitutions of the State of New York and the United States of America are not abandoned or thrown to the side during times of emergency. But that’s exactly what our government has done.”
Health
‘It’s Not Just Dying’: Doctors Warn About COVID’s Dangerous Complications
|
“You could have a clot that forms in the heart artery and leads to a heart attack, or you could have a blood clot that forms inside the heart itself that breaks off and leads to a stroke.”
App NEWS
Penn State To Play In Empty Stadium, But There’s A Plan Should The Rules Change
|
Athletic Director Sandy Barbour left open the possibility that the football team won’t play at all.
New York State Fitness Alliance Submits Plan, Tells Governor Gyms Can Open Safely
|
“We touch people’s lives every day. Every day, we love our jobs. But you’re not giving us a chance to help people where they need it the most.”
App NEWS
New York Landlords Expect Increased Evictions In Coming Months
|
“When we have people who don’t stay in touch with us, or we knock on the door and they refuse to answer, or they tell us to our face, ‘I’m not going to pay, do what you’re going to do,’ that’s when it gets frustrating.”
Government
Frustration Mounts As New York’s Gyms Remain Closed. How Risky Is It For Them To Reopen?
|
“We have been losing members without new members joining. Our expenses are piling up. Our revenue is nonexistent.”
PA Professor: Not Realistic To Expect A COVID-19 Vaccine In 2020
|
Dr. Paul Offit, who serves on the Food and Drug Administration’s vaccine advisory board, says he doesn’t think an effective vaccine that’s undergone adequate testing can be ready this year.
New York City Sets Up Quarantine Checkpoints For Travelers From COVID-19 Hot Spots
|
Checkpoints at major bridges, tunnels and other sites are meant to drive home the message that 14-day quarantine rules are mandatory for people returning from states with high infection rates.
Government
New York Rolls Back Legal Protections for Nursing Homes, Health Care Facilities
|
A series of legal protections granted during the COVID-19 pandemic to nursing homes and health care facilities as part of the state budget was partially rolled back on Monday.
Cuomo Comments About Coronavirus Testing Confuse School Leaders
|
“Districts must have a plan in place for testing related to symptomatic or exposed individuals, whether in school or through the local health department.”
App NEWS
Cornell Students From States With Climbing COVID-19 Cases Told To Stay Home
|
“We’d really encourage you to stay at your permanent residence until your state is lifted from the New York State advisory. We’re not going to dictate what you do but that’s our strong encouragement.”
Episodes
PA Election Officials Urge Swift Legislative Action On Voting Reforms
|
Changes to state law need to be effective by early September if counties are to implement them in time for the general election.
App NEWS
Gender X Policy In New York State To Change Health Data Reporting
|
“Would they let me be the gender that I am or the gender that I was assigned at birth? Because I have very strong views on that.”
Government
Lawmakers Question New York’s Health Commissioner On Nursing Home Policy
|
“It is unfortunate. It is sad. But it is true. 98% of nursing homes already had COVID in their nursing homes, and those are the facts.”
Economy
Tax Collections Rebound With Pent-Up Shopper Demand, But PA Still Faces Huge Budget Deficit
|
Pennsylvania’s finances received a welcome — but probably temporary — boost in July, with tax collections up 6.6% compared to the same time last year, according to figures released Monday by the state’s Independent Fiscal Office.
App NEWS
Governor Says New York Schools Must Convince Parents Their Students Will Be Safe
|
“I don’t care what any bureaucrat says,” said Cuomo. “If they don’t have a good plan for reopening, no kids are going to come and no teaches are going to come.”
Education
Schumer Calls On New York To Lobby For More School Money In Coronavirus Relief Bill
|
“Please, if you’re in central New York, some of you have kids that have moved away, some have parents that have moved away, call them and ask them to call their senator and say ‘this is needed everywhere.'”
App NEWS
‘I’d Be Nuts Not To Be Anxious’: PA College Administrators Prepare For Unpredictable Fall Semester
|
Coronavirus testing, online instruction, and the ability to turn on a dime are central to reopening plans
Education
Cuomo To Issue School Reopening Guidance This Week
|
“If you have the virus under control, reopen. If you don’t have the virus under control, then you can’t reopen,”
Education
Over 40 Leaders Join Finger Lakes Task Force To Safely Reopen Schools
|
“I appreciate the work that the Congress has done to date with the CARES Act proposals. But this current debate must create resources that support state education and educational equity.”
App NEWS
Minority-Owned Small Businesses Were Largely Shut Out Of PA’s First Coronavirus Loan Program
|
State officials are trying again, this time with a grant program targeted at the smallest and most vulnerable operations.
Environment
Cuomo Scraps $3 Billion Environmental Bond Act
|
New York, fearing the financial implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, has decided to pull an item from this year’s ballot to decide if the state should borrow $3 billion to fund a series of environmental projects related to climate change.
COVID Concerns Delay Weekend Series For Toronto (Buffalo) Blue Jays
|
Members of the Phillies roster were reported to test positive for COVID-19.
Government
Lack Of Guidance On Face Masks Leaves Doctors To Decide On Exemptions
|
“It’s really a person-by-person, case-by-case situation. Doctors know their patients. And if it’s a new person, doctors should take some time. Get to know them. It can be hard, but it’s important.”
Education
Space, Staffing Figure Into Plans For Reopening New York Schools
|
Classroom capacity ranges from about 19-21 students. But with social distancing, the capacity can drop to around 16 or 17 students.
Government
Cuomo Makes Last-Minute Plea To Congress For Federal Funds
|
The governor says the state faces a $14 billion deficit in the current fiscal year, and $16 billion next year, and without federal funds, he’ll have to slash schools, hospitals and local government aid by 20%.
Education
To Safely Reopen, School Boards Say More Money’s Needed
|
“Our school board members, really their heart is in opening up the school, but they know it’s going to cost a lot of extra money this year.”
Government
How The Pandemic Affects New York’s Census Count
|
The coronavirus pandemic couldn’t have come at a worse time for those involved in the 2020 Census. The pandemic wreaked havoc on plans for the every-ten-year population count.
Video Of Audience At Chainsmokers Concert Prompts New York To Investigate
|
The Safe & Sound fundraiser, held Saturday in Southampton, drew rebukes after video emerged showing audience members dancing close together. Gov. Andrew Cuomo tweeted, “I am appalled.”
App NEWS
Business Owners To PA’s Governor: Please Police Mask Requirement So We Don’t Have To
|
“If we did something as a business, the person would just up and leave and go somewhere else, because someone else is not going to enforce it.”
Government
Over 2/3rd Of States Now On New York’s Quarantine List
|
People traveling to New York from more than two-thirds of the country will now have to quarantine for at least two weeks upon entering the state, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Tuesday, after infection rates in three more states exceeded New York’s threshold.
App NEWS
Ithaca School Superintendent Discusses School Reopening Plans
|
“And across the country we prioritize bars and restaurants over young people. How dare we do that.”
Governor Warns GOP’s Federal Stimulus Plan Would Harm New York State
|
“Mitch McConnell, Rand Paul are federal ‘bag men,’ to use a different expression. They’ve been taking New Yorkers’ money for years, putting it in a bag in Washington and bringing it home to their state.”
Calling All COVID survivors: The Red Cross Wants Your Plasma
|
“Someone who has recovered from coronavirus has antibodies in their blood that may be able to help someone else fight that infection.”
Blue Jays’ First Buffalo Opponent Bitten By COVID Outbreak
|
“The moment we left Canada, there was concern. We’ve got to follow the guidelines. It’s not gonna be easy.”
Why New York State Is Releasing So Few Inmates During The Pandemic
|
“There are men just like me in there. They should have been walking out with me. But instead they’ll probably die in prison.”
Government
Cuomo: Next Two Weeks Will Determine State Budget Cuts
|
“They had been promising, promising, promising. It’s not that I was waiting without them suggesting possibility. They have been saying we’re going to do it. Then they didn’t.”
Economy
Staffs Have Doubled At PA Unemployment Offices, But Thousands Still Await Benefits
|
“I’ve been doing this since April 4th, and I have received zero money. The problem is you cannot get through on the phone.”
Coronavirus Hot Spots: Could New York And Pennsylvania See A COVID-19 Rebound?
|
As modelers look at national trends, they’re concerned about case jumps in areas that had previously managed largely to squelch the virus.
Government
Gillibrand Pushes For Federally Mandated Paid Leave, Sick Days
|
The bill would require upwards of three months of leave at 66 percent of a person’s salary.
App NEWS
Pediatricians Struggle During Pandemic; ‘We need help’
|
“The pediatric infrastructure, the people who care for your children are struggling to stay afloat, stay available, and we need help.”
Government
New York Offers Rent Relief To Low-Income Residents. Activists Call For Canceling Rent
|
The COVID Rent Relief Program provides a one-time rent subsidy, paid directly to landlords, based on the amount of income lost in the past four months.
Health
Disability Community Still Fighting For Independent Living
|
Here’s something you may not know: People with disabilities are not guaranteed the right to live in the community.
App NEWS
Four Months After The Shutdown, Thousands Await Unemployment Compensation
|
8 percent of claims needed to be reviewed manually.
‘Buffalo’ Blue Jays? Upstate Park A Possible Venue For Canadian Team
|
If the Blue Jays can’t find a major league park, Sahlen Field, home of their Triple-A affiliate, would be a likely site for home games.
New York Yankees ‘Play Ball!’ But For How Long? A Nervous 2020 Season Begins
|
Major League Baseball’s delayed and shortened regular season gets underway Thursday. There will be no fans in the stands and plenty of health and safety protections for the players and team officials.
2020 New York Legislative Session Winds Down; No Budget Resolution In Sight
|
“Democrats are not providing any oversight of the governor’s decisions throughout this pandemic. And that is a real problem that I think should concern all New Yorkers.”
Food and Farms
New York Farm Bureau: ‘No Farm Untouched By Pandemic’
|
65% of farmers in New York state say their business has been negatively or very negatively affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
App NEWS
Brindisi, Katko Hope Congress Can Reach Deal On Latest COVID-19 Relief Bill
|
In the spirit of bipartisanship, Rep. John Katko (R-Camillus) and Rep. Anthony Brindisi (D-Utica) got together for a virtual town hall on Facebook this week, the first time they’ve ever done such a joint meeting.
App NEWS
Using Emergency Powers, Governor Withheld Millions From PA County. Now It’s Suing
|
The lawsuit represents yet another test of Wolf’s emergency powers, which have been unsuccessfully challenged several times.
Health
Some Deafblind Residents Lose Services — And Socialization — During Pandemic
|
Virtually everybody has made sacrifices during the coronavirus pandemic. But, for some people who are deafblind, it meant almost entirely losing their connections to the outside world.
App NEWS
New York’s Quarantine List Grows To Nearly 2/3 of States
|
People traveling to New York from nearly two-thirds of the country will now have to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine upon entering the state after Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Tuesday that 10 more states would be added to that list.
Government
In Debate Over The Limits Of Government Transparency During Emergencies, Wolf To Veto A Bill Passed Unanimously By PA Legislature
|
Bill sponsor, transparency advocates urge governor to reconsider
Economy
‘This Is For You’: New PA Grant Targets Minority Business Owners Hurt By Coronavirus Shutdown
|
“I would never have applied if they hadn’t come and talked to me about it. They emphasized to me: Why don’t you take advantage of some of the things that are out there for you?”
What To Do About Part-Time School? NYC Announces Free Child Care For 100,000 Students
|
The city aims to provide relief for working parents who either can’t afford to stay home or can’t find child care for the days that students aren’t in school.
New York City’s High Line Reopens In A Potential Boost To Local Business
|
Chelsea business owners hope the reopening of the popular elevated park will bring more foot traffic back to the neighborhood.
Education
PA Governor Willing To Unplug School Reopening If COVID Surge Can’t Be Stopped
|
“This whole process we’ve had an array of choices and they’ve all been bad.”
Activists Say Police Reforms Shouldn’t Wait Until 2021. One Sheriff Agrees.
|
“It’s not like we don’t know what needs to be done. He could make a list of things that needed to be done and start putting them in place.”
App NEWS
Federal Funds For Reopening New York’s K-12 Schools Could Arrive Soon
|
“If we give the schools the dollars they need to make sure the kids are safe and the teachers are safe and the employees are safe, we can sort of have our cake and eat it too.”
New York’s Metropolitan Museum Of Art Will Open Its Doors Again In Late August
|
The country’s largest art museum will be open to the public five days a week starting at the end of August. It had been closed since March as New York City grappled with the coronavirus pandemic.
App NEWS
Cornell Holds Virtual Meetings To Answer Reopening Questions
|
Malina said students are being “encouraged” to quarantine for 14 days at home before returning to Ithaca.
Education
New York Researchers Work On Coronavirus Tests For Students Returning To College
|
“By testing a pool, if the pool is negative, everyone is clear. If the pool is positive, we break out the samples, we run them individually, so it’s like an individual test.”
Government
PA House Passes Constitutional Changes That Would Limit Governor’s Emergency Powers
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The state Supreme Court earlier this month upheld the governor’s disaster emergency declaration, saying the legislature can’t terminate the declaration on its own.
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Schumer: Federal Stimulus Proposal Would Give Billions To Schools, Colleges
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“There are some strings. They have to use it for health and education, but we don’t say one size fits all.”
Government
July 15 Is New York’s New Tax Day
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The bulk of New Yorkers, over 9 million, have already filed their taxes, but around 1.3 million have not and are expected to do so by Wednesday.
New York To Require Contact Info From Air Travelers From States That Must Quarantine
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New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says the state is deploying teams to check for proof that travelers getting off flights have completed forms before leaving airports across the state.
New York Funeral Director: Pandemic Has Been A Wave That ‘Knocks You Over’
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Fourth-generation funeral director Patrick Kearns and his brother-in-law Paul Kearns-Stanley are partners in a 120-year-old family funeral business. They describe their unrelenting work and worries.
New York City Has Its First Day In Months With No COVID-19 Deaths
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Mayor Bill de Blasio calls on President Trump to invoke the Defense Production Act to speed up processing of coronavirus tests: “If you can’t get the results in real time, it doesn’t help you enough.”
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Cuomo: Trump’s COVID-19 Response Makes Nixon Look ‘Innocent’
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“Trump’s COVID scandal makes what Nixon did at Watergate look innocent. Nobody died in the Watergate scandal. Thousands of people are going to die in this COVID scandal.”
App NEWS
Cuomo Sets School Reopening Formula, Guidance Presented
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Regions will be allowed to reopen schools if, by the first week of August, the infection rate remains below 5% using a 14-day average.
Government
Democrats Renew Calls to ‘Cancel Rent’ Ahead of Potential Housing Crisis
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Lawmakers announced legislation Friday that would cancel rent for all tenants in New York through the COVID-19 state of emergency, and 90 days thereafter.
App NEWS
New York Allows Limited Visitation At Nursing Homes
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Given that the state claimed earlier this week that visitors were partly responsible for previously spreading the virus at those facilities, Health Commissioner Howard Zucker said they’re proceeding with caution.
App NEWS
Families Say Group Home Residents Suffer Because New York Failed To Act
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Jerri Lynn Sparks says her 22-year-old son, Jared, and thousands of other New Yorkers with disabilities are suffering because the state has adopted “one-size-fits-all” coronavirus restrictions for group homes.
Census Bureau Expands Early Door Knocking For Count To Pennsylvania
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Despite the pandemic, Census Bureau officials say they’ve determined it’s safe enough for visits to unresponsive homes in parts of Connecticut, Indiana, Kansas, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington.
Economy
Schumer Pushes For More Small Business Help
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“We just have to change the law to let folks like this get a second round and we will have many, many more small businesses surviving and even prospering in the next six months.”
Government
Pandemic Exposed Inequality In Access To Broadband, Officials Say
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“If we’re going to get serious about bridging the urban-rural divide and making sure that schoolchildren are not left behind then we have to work together to do a few things.”
Government
Wolf Will Officially Veto GOP Effort To End Coronavirus Emergency
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The state supreme court sided with Wolf in a ruling last week.
Economy
Cuomo Opens Malls Friday, Cancels County Fairs
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“The federal government’s demands that schools reopen without concern for health, safety and equity are simply out of touch.”
App NEWS
Cuomo: Decision On Schools To Come In Early August
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New York will decide if schools will reopen this fall in the first week of August, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Wednesday, and tasked districts across the state with coming up with plans in the event that they’re allowed to resume in-person learning.
New Yorkers Look To Suburbs And Beyond. Other City Dwellers May Be Next
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Now that so many are working from home, more people are considering moving out of the city. The pandemic has sent enough New Yorkers to the exits to shake up the area’s housing market.
Government
New York Governor’s Emergency Powers Scrutinized
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“As the epidemic has eased, we think the legislature should get back to work. Hold committee meetings, move bills.”
App NEWS
More Than A Third Of States Now On New York’s Quarantine List
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Travelers from three more states will now be required to quarantine themselves for two weeks when they enter New York, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Tuesday.
