Community Update: Rising Positivity Rate, New Rules for New Yorkers, Commemorating Veterans Day, & More

Dear Friends:

The upcoming holiday season will be unlike anything we have been able to celebrate before. I know some of you are already putting up holiday decorations. And we certainly need all of the extra joy the season can bring during this difficult time.

Day after day, the positivity rate is increasing throughout Westchester and the state. I am working with Governor Andrew Cuomo's office, County Executive George Latimer, and other colleagues to monitor and contain the rising number of COVID-19 cases, but we need residents to do their part. We know from following the data and contact tracing that the main sources of the uptick in cases are coming from gatherings at private residences, establishments where alcohol is served, and gyms and fitness centers. In an effort to slow down the spread of the virus, new rules have been put in effect including limiting indoor and outdoor gatherings at private residences to 10 people.

I urge you to speak with your family and friends and come up with a plan for this holiday season that keeps everyone safe. After so many months of not being able to see family members, I know how difficult it is to sacrifice seeing loved ones during the holidays, but we must limit gatherings for this Thanksgiving, so everyone can be at the table next year.

New Rules for New Yorkers to Control the Spread of COVID-19

• As of Friday, November 16th, restaurants, bars & other SLA-licensed entities must close in-person service from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM daily.
• Indoor and outdoor gatherings at private residences are limited to 10 people. This includes gatherings for holidays.
• Gyms and fitness centers are also required to close between 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM daily.
• Click here to read more about the new rules to control the rising spread of COVID-19.

Even as we all redouble our efforts to stay home and maintain social distance, I am inspired by the advocacy and commitment of community members to civic participation and advocacy. I had the pleasure of speaking at the NYS PTA Statewide Convention to greet local PTA presidents, where there were over 400 members in attendance. I also spoke at the NYS Association of Small City School Districts Board meeting where we discussed the upcoming challenges of small city school districts. Under incredibly difficult and evolving circumstances, I know how hard they, and so many others, are working to serve and advocate for parents, students, and teachers. It is an honor to work alongside so many terrific advocates. 

Kind regards,
Shelley B. Mayer

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