Aug 18, 2020
Today is the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which gave women the right to vote. We celebrate this milestone and all who fought and continue to fight for full suffrage, including the legendary New Yorkers Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and so many more. And we know that even as we celebrate, there is much still to do and so we fight on.
On the COVID numbers, the news continues to be good. For the eleventh consecutive day, our daily infection rate is less than 1 percent and remains low in every region of the state. We continue to move forward in our contest against this virus thanks to the vigilance and community spirit of all New Yorkers.
Photo of the Day: Wickham Farms in Penfield, NY styled their corn maze in the shape of Susan B. Anthony to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment
(Photo by Jerome Davis)
1. The total number of COVID hospitalizations remains low. Yesterday, there were 537 total hospitalizations. Of the 66,891 tests reported yesterday, 655, or 0.98%, were positive. Sadly, we lost 8 New Yorkers to the virus.
2. The deadline for health insurance special enrollment has been extended to September 15, 2020. New Yorkers without health insurance can apply for coverage through the NY State of Health Plan Marketplace.
3. Alaska and Delaware have been added to the State's travel advisory. Individuals who travel to New York from states on the travel advisory, which all have significant community spread, must quarantine for 14 days. No states have been removed. See the full list of states and territories subject to the travel advisory here.
4. Guidance has been released for gym reopening. The exhaustive list of health protocols mandated by the state (and enforced by localities) can be viewed here.
5. Restaurants and bars can continue to sell takeout beer, wine and cocktails through September 4, 2020. Any alcohol purchased for takeout or delivery must be accompanied by food. Additionally, restaurants and bars can serve alcohol in expanded outdoor seating (when accompanied by food). I remind all New Yorkers to drink responsibly and to follow health protocols. Any establishments found violating these rules set by the State Liquor Authority risk losing their liquor license.
Tonight's "Deep Breath Moment": This year, the Boilermaker Road Race is hosting the "Empire State Race-Off," a friendly virtual challenge to find out which region in New York State runs the most. Proceeds from the race benefit United Way, a non-profit organization.
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