Jun 15, 2020
The state has received over 25,000 complaints concerning a business in violation of the reopening guidelines. We are deeply disappointed to see videos of people out in the street, drinks in hand, ignoring social distancing guidelines (as well as open container laws) — many not wearing masks. While I understand that we are all tired of the constraints of this situation, now is not the time to let our guard down.
In 22 states that are reopening, there have been significant rises in the number of COVID cases. Some states are facing the worst situation they have encountered since the pandemic started. In New York our numbers are good and continue to trend well, but that could change tomorrow if New Yorkers let caution fatigue set in.
So wear a mask, protect yourself and others and continue to treat COVID with the seriousness it calls for.
Here's what else you need to know tonight:
1. Gatherings of up to 25 people will be allowed in Phase 3 of reopening, up from a limit of 10. Five regions have already entered Phase 3: Central New York, the Finger Lakes, the Mohawk Valley, the North Country and the Southern Tier.
2. Two regions will begin Phase 3 of reopening this week. Global public health experts have cleared Western New York to enter Phase 3 tomorrow, and the Capital Region is still on track to enter Phase 3 on Wednesday, June 17th. Business guidance for Phase 3 of the state's reopening plan is available here.
3. Today I marked the opening of the 3.6-mile bicycle and pedestrian path on the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. The path provides a new connection for families, runners, cyclists, walkers and commuters to travel across the Hudson River. The path is officially open to the public as of today with safety protocols in place. Learn more here.
4. Low-risk youth sports for regions in Phase 3 of reopening can begin on July 6th. Sports to resume include baseball, softball, gymnastics, field hockey, cross country and crew with up to two spectators allowed per child.
5. The state is extending the special enrollment period for an additional 30 days through July 15, 2020. New Yorkers without health insurance can apply for a health plan through the NY State of Health Marketplace.
6. The total number of COVID hospitalizations are now hitting record lows. Total hospitalizations fell to 1,608, from 1,657, which is the lowest level since the pandemic began. Sadly, 27 people in New York passed away yesterday due to COVID-19, which is the lowest level on a three-day average since the pandemic began.
Tonight's "Deep Breath Moment": Our readers spoke and we listened. We heard you want to see footage of Finley, the 6-year-old Golden Retriever from Canandaigua, NY, who was recognized by the Guinness World Records recently for holding six tennis balls in his mouth unassisted. So here it is: Video of the New York Golden Retriever holding all SIX tennis balls. (Bonus video here.)
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