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IF A PERSON IS QUARANTINED FOR POSSIBILITY THEY HAVE CORONA VIRUS, THEY CANNOT LEAVE THEIR HOME OR RESIDENCE in New Rochelle Corona Virus Containment Zone.
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WPCNR CORONA VIRUS REPORT. By John F. Bailey. March 12, 2019: Mayor Noam Bramson of New Rochelle confirmed in a robocall to New Rochelle residents this morning, that quarantined persons could not leave their homes/residences.
The robocall appears to correct the impression on a widely viewed television media reports last night stating there was no quarantine in the New Rochelle Containment Zone, and people were free to leave the zone,
Bramson’s robocall stated: ” Except for individuals subject to quarantine, residents are free to come and go, (Editor’s note: meaning, only non-quarantined residents could leave the 2-mile diameter Containment Zone)
A spokesperson reached by WPCNR on the New York State Corona Virus hotline, 1-888-364-3065, clarified this policy of quarantine stay-in-your-home/ residence policy by telling WPCNR, a quarantined resident cannot leave their home, because this would mean they could spread the virus, if they had it. The spokesman added they could not go out for errands or trips of any kind.
Originally the quarantine of 36 persons, members or associated with the member, who had contracted the virus, of Temple Israel in New Rochelle, were ordered quarantined in their homes by Dr. Sherlita Amler, Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Health for 15 days beginning March 1. March 15 is coming up, but at this time the Department of Health has no information whether the quarantine on those subject to it will be lifted.
Here is the text of of that Mayor Bramson Robocall that the Mayor shared with WPCNR:
A few moments ago, I (Mayor Bramson) sent the following citywide robocall:
This is Mayor Noam Bramson, with an update on the coronavirus outbreak. Here’s what’s new:
The National Guard has arrived in Westchester and will be working here in New Rochelle beginning today to assist in the delivery of meals, cleaning of public facilities, and the distribution of supplies. The Guard will not be engaged in any military or policing activities, and is operating purely as logistical support.
The containment area in the Wykagyl neighborhood takes effect today, Within this area, large gatherings at large institutions are prohibited. But, contrary to false rumors, there is no change in daily life. Except for individuals subject to quarantine, residents are free to come and go, and businesses are open.
In an effort to support our business community through this period, New Rochelle is offering free parking at all metered spaces citywide for at least the next two weeks. New Rochelle is open for business, and if you are a healthy adult, please continue to patronize our local restaurants and shops.
Now, a reminder on previously reported information:
Nursing homes and assisted facilities will not accept visitors until further notice, as a means of limiting exposure for our most vulnerable population.
If you experience symptoms, contact your doctor or health care provider for individual guidance on testing. If you do not have a doctor, then call ahead to the emergency room, do not simply show up.
All of us can protect ourselves and our families by following common sense public health guidelines, including reasonable social distancing.
Additional information is available by calling 1-888-364-3065 or 2-1-1 or by visiting newrochelleny.com/coronavirus.
This is a big challenge for New Rochelle, but our community is rising to the occasion by demonstrating strength, resilience, calm, and support for our neighbors.
Frie-Pearson Candidate for 93rd Assembly District (formerly Buchwald Seat) Suspends Petitioning
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WPCNR CAMPAIGN 2020. From the Jeremiah Frie-Pearson for Assembly Campaign. March 12, 2020:
The Democratic Primary campaign of Jeremiah Frei-Pearson announced this morning that it is officially suspending petitioning, effective immediately, over the ongoing public health crisis created by the Coronavirus Global Pandemic.
Petitioning requires close, personal contact between strangers and runs directly counter to the recommendations of medical professionals about the need for “social distancing” to help fight the spread of COVID-19.
Frei-Pearson also called on New York State to immediately pass legislation, proposed in the State Assembly, to reduce signature requirements for candidates in this year’s elections.
“Our top priority as a community has to be fighting this disease. A small, common-sense, reduction in ballot access requirements might save lives – including, potentially, those of other candidates or volunteers who are members of high-risk groups. Putting public safety over political campaigning is a no-brainer to me.”
Frei-Pearson also forwarded the entirety of his statement to supporters announcing the decision:
“First and foremost, I hope you and your family are well. We are obviously in an uncharted situation with Covid-19 and I urge you to follow guidance from medical professionals, Governor Cuomo, County Executive Latimer, and your local leaders. Wash your hands frequently and if you believe you may be infected call the New York State Covid-19 hotline at 888-364-3605; you can also call the White Plains Hospital’s hotline at 914-681-2900.
“In times like these, state and local political campaigning take a distant backseat to public health. You should know that I, and all volunteers I have heard from, feel fine. At the same time, out of an abundance of caution, my campaign effectively suspended petitioning earlier this week and I am now officially suspending it. I am reaching out to my competitors to encourage them to do the same, and will urge New York State to pass the pending legislation to reduce signature requirements for candidates for public office this year. I love meeting with community members (and I will particularly miss the upcoming Saint Patrick’s Day parades I was supposed to march in), but the safety of our community is far more important than a handshake.
“Again, I hope you and your family are doing well. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to me at any time. These are challenging times, but I know that we in Westchester County will band together, be smart, and ultimately emerge stronger and safer.”
Upon Further Review: Homeland Security “Clarifies” President Air Travel From Europe Ban
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| Homeland Security Acting Secretary Chad F. Wolf’s Statement on Presidential Proclamation To Protect the Homeland from Travel-Related Coronavirus Spread |
| (WASHINGTON) Today President Donald J. Trump signed a Presidential Proclamation, which suspends the entry of most foreign nationals who have been in certain European countries at any point during the 14 days prior to their scheduled arrival to the United States. These countries, known as the Schengen Area, include: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. This does not apply to legal permanent residents, (generally) immediate family members of U.S. citizens, and other individuals who are identified in the proclamation. Statement from DHS Acting Secretary Chad F. Wolf: “Protecting the American people from threats to their safety is the most important job of the President of the United States. The actions President Trump is taking to deny entry to foreign nationals who have been in affected areas will keep Americans safe and save American lives. I applaud the president for making this tough but necessary decision. While these new travel restrictions will be disruptive to some travelers, this decisive action is needed to protect the American public from further exposure to the potentially deadly coronavirus. “In January and February, the Administration issued similar travel restrictions on individuals who had been in China and Iran. That action proved to be effective in slowing the spread of the virus to the U.S., while public health officials prepared. In the next 48 hours, in the interest of public health, I intend to issue a supplemental Notice of Arrivals Restriction requiring U.S. passengers that have been in the Schengen Area to travel through select airports where the U.S. Government has implemented enhanced screening procedures.” |
Mayor Roach’s Coronavirus Report: State Provides Number of Coronavirus Patients by Municipality. 3 in White Plains
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WPCNR CORONAVIRUS WHITE PLAINS REPORT. From the Mayor’s Office. March 11, 2020 :
The Governor today confirmed 39 additional cases in New York State, bringing the total to 212. 121 of those cases (13 new cases) are in Westchester County. The state is expecting the number of cases to continue to rise in the foreseeable future.
Westchester County has now received permission from the State Health Department to inform mayors and supervisors of the number of individuals in their municipality who test positive for Coronavirus.
As we have said in prior posts, this information had not previously been provided and thus we could not share what we did not have. White Plains, along with other municipalities, has been advocating for the provision of this information.
We have been informed that as of today, 3 individuals in White Plains are positive for coronavirus. We have been informed that these individuals are abiding by all the required quarantine measures. We will continue to share all statistics provided to us by the State and County Health Departments.
The Governor today announced that the State will be contracting with approximately 28 private labs in the state to do additional coronavirus testing. The Governor is moving ahead with this as a means of trying to break through the widely reported bottleneck in testing. The CDC has assented to the state’s plan.
The state is advising business leaders around the state to think about ways in which they can “reduce density” through options such as telecommuting and shift changes if possible.
Reducing density (that is, reducing the number and type of situations that bring a large number of people together in close quarters), along with increasing testing capacity, is a top priority of the state as a means of stopping the spread of the virus.
Program and Event Cancellations & Postponements
The White Plains St. Patrick’s Day Parade scheduled for Saturday, March 14th, has been canceled.
The St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon at the White Plains Community Center scheduled for Thursday, March 12th, has been canceled.
White Plains Library Foundation 25th Anniversary Gala scheduled for March 14th, has been postponed.
AARP has decided to suspend the AARP Tax Aide program at the White Plains Public Library for the weeks of 3/16 and 3/24. They will re-evaluate after the 24th. Please check the Library website, https://whiteplainslibrary.org/, for updates.
The Youth Bureau’s Women in STEM Forum scheduled for Sunday, March 29th will be moved to the fall.
The Youth Bureau’s Grandpas United Sports Talk scheduled for Monday, March 30th has been canceled.
The Youth Bureau Arts Show: Soulful Homecoming scheduled for Thursday, April 2nd, has been rescheduled for Tuesday, June 2nd.
The STEAM Fair/Youth Bureau Open House scheduled for Saturday, April 25th has been canceled. The Open House will be rescheduled for the fall. The STEAM Fair will not be rescheduled.
Prevention Information
City buildings and facilities continue to be cleaned and disinfected throughout the day. We continue to make this a priority.
Residents who are concerned and/or have questions about coronavirus should call the NYS DOH hotline at: 1-888-364-3065. This hotline is staffed 24/7. We urge everyone to continue to practice common sense preventive measures. While there is currently no vaccine to prevent this virus, these simple steps can help stop the spread of this and other respiratory viruses:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
In addition to general guidance provided to the public, NYS has been providing sector-specific guidance to groups such as health care workers and nursing homes. We expect more of this in the coming days. We continue to work with state, county, and local officials to ensure a coordinated response and will continue to update residents on a regular basis. For more information access these trustworthy resources:
NYS DOH:
https://health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/coronavirus/
CDC:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html
Westchester County DOH:
https://health.westchestergov.com/
Governor Engages 28 Labs to Expedite Coronavirus Testing. Cases in WESTCHESTER-121 STATE: 216
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SUNY and CUNY Will Prepare Plans for Distance Learning
State Will Provide Two Weeks Paid Leave for State Workers Quarantined
New Cases:13 in Westchester, 16 NYC, 9 Nassau 5 in Suffolk County
Business Leaders Implement Different Work Shifts and Telecommuting
$200,000 to Local Food Bank in New Rochelle
WPCNR CORONA VIRUS REPORT. From the Office of the Governor. March 11, 2020:
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that New York State will contract with 28 private labs to increase testing capacity for the novel coronavirus. Following a call with the 28 labs, the Governor announced that he has instructed the labs to begin testing immediately as soon as they are ready. The 28 labs are specialized in virology and are routine partners with the New York State Department of Health.
The Governor also announced the State University of New York and the City University of New York will implement plans to maximize distance learning and reduce in-person classes, beginning March 19th, for the remainder of the Spring semester in light of the evolving novel coronavirus situation in New York.
All campuses will develop plans catered to the campus and curriculum-specific needs while reducing density in the campus environment to help slow possibility for exposures to novel coronavirus. Distance learning and other options will be developed by campuses.
Governor Cuomo announced the state will guarantee two full weeks of paid leave for all state workers who are subject to a mandatory or precautionary order of quarantine as a result of the novel coronavirus. Employees will not have to charge accruals during the time taken off work for quarantine. This will apply to all state employees, regardless of civil service classification, bargaining unit, and regardless of part time or accrual status.
Finally, the Governor also confirmed 43 additional cases of novel coronavirus, bringing the statewide total to 216 confirmed cases in New York State. Of the 216 total individuals who tested positive for the virus, the geographic breakdown is as follows:
Westchester: 121 (13 new)
New York City: 52 (16 new)
Nassau: 28 (9 new)
Suffolk: 6 (5 new)
Rockland: 6
Saratoga: 2
Ulster: 1
“While the risk to New Yorkers remains low, we are taking a number of steps out of an abundance of caution to protect public health including asking SUNY and CUNY to implement strategies to reduce density on campuses for the remainder of the semester,” Governor Cuomo said.
“At the same time, we’re continuing to prioritize ramping up testing capacity because the more people you identify as having the virus, the better you can contain it. We’re also leading by example and providing paid leave to all state workers who are quarantined as a result of the virus – and we encourage businesses to voluntarily do telecommuting to the extent possible.
Again I want to remind people to keep this in perspective: the facts do not justify the fear in this situation and the facts here should actually reduce anxiety.”
After speaking with business leaders today, Governor Cuomo also announced a new cooperative effort with New York business leaders to voluntarily implement different work shifts and telecommuting in an effort to reduce density.
Additionally, the Governor announced that the New York State Department of Health will grant $200,000 to a local food bank in New Rochelle to help the community as it faces a cluster of positive cases of the novel coronavirus. Nine schools in New Rochelle are currently closed as a result of the containment zone set yesterday, and this funding will help ensure any student or family who relies on free school lunches can continue to access it during this containment effort.
Residents of the New Rochelle Corona Containment Zone NOT Quarantined to their home are free to travel to and from their homes.
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WPCNR CORONAVIRUS REPORT. From the Westchester County Department of Health. March 11, 2020:
The Westchester County Department of Health clarified for WPCNR travel policy in the Coronavirus Containment Zone established by Governor Cuomo Tuesday.
Residents within the Containment Zone who are under QUARANTINE in their homes because they are suspected of being exposed to the coronavirus, may not leave their homes.
Residents who are not under quarantine may according the Department of Health leave their homes, walk on the sidewalks, drive outside the quarantine zone and return to their homes
Persons who do not live in the containment zone are permitted to drive through the zone
The schools in the Containment zone will be closed effective Friday. The public schools to be closed are New Rochelle High School, Albert Leonard Middle School and Ward Elementary. Private Schools will also be closed.
The Containment Zone will be in effect until March 25, according to the Governor.
Mayor of New Rochelle Issues Statement on Wykagyl Containment Area Established by Governor Cuomo Today
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WPCNR CORONA VIRUS REPORT From the Office of New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson. March 10, 2019:
The Mayor of New Rochelle, Noam Bramson issued this statement after 2 PM today on Governor Cuomo’s decision to stablish a containment area in that city today. Here is Mr. Bramson’s statement:’
“To mitigate the spread of coronavirus in our community and elsewhere, State public health authorities have established a one-mile containment area from the epicenter of the outbreak within which large gatherings will be prohibited.
This affects several public and private schools, houses of worship, and potentially other large institutions in the Wykagyl area of New Rochelle’s North End.
To emphasize, this is purely a limitation on large gatherings; it is not a quarantine or exclusion zone, and it does not apply to individual residents and families or to individual businesses. We are still collaborating with State authorities to create a complete list of affected facilities and to provide appropriate guidance to them.
Additionally:
The City is assisting in the distribution of hand sanitizer from New York State to large institutions throughout New Rochelle, especially those serving seniors. At present, however, hand sanitizer is not available for the general public.
We are informed that the National Guard will be assisting with logistical and operational challenges in our community, including cleaning and the distribution of meals to students who rely on school lunches and breakfasts at schools that are closed. The Guard will not be engaged in military or Policing functions. The City stands ready to coordinate with and support the Guard’s efforts in any constructive fashion, and has activated our emergency operations center in order to be fully prepared for any requests.
As a reminder: public health experts have been clear that the great majority of those who contract coronavirus will recover without difficulty, and that we can protect ourselves and our families by following common sense public health guidelines. If you experience symptoms, please consult your doctor or health care provider.
New Rochelle is a strong and resilient community. Although this is a major challenge, we will meet it calmly, with seriousness of purpose, and with support for and from all of our neighbors.
GOVERNOR CUOMO SHUTS DOWN 2 mile CONTAMINATED AREA near Temple epidemic center IN NEW ROCHELLE FOR TWO WEEKS
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WPCNR CORONAVIRUS REPORT. March 10, 2019:
Governor Cuomo has closed schools, worship places, and community gathering places in an area around a temple in New Rochelle, New York for two weeks, beginning Friday to halt the spread of the coronavirus disease in the area of the city where the first cases started in Westchester County.
NY National Guard troops have been assigned to help clean surfaces and deliver food in the area, a 1-mile-radius around a point near a synagogue connected to some existing cases, Cuomo said.
A testing facility will be set up in the area, schools within it will close for two weeks starting Friday and state and local officials are working to determine “large congregate facilities or gathering places” that also will shut down.
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today accepted the recommendation of State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker for new emergency measures to contain the novel coronavirus cluster in New Rochelle.
The area currently has 108 confirmed cases and is considered a “cluster.” The protocols include closing schools, houses of worship and other large gathering facilities within a one-mile radius in New Rochelle for a two-week period, from Thursday, March 12th to Wednesday, March 25th.
The Governor confirmed 31 additional cases of novel coronavirus, bringing the statewide total to 173 confirmed cases in New York State. Of the 173 total individuals who tested positive for the virus, the geographic breakdown is as follows:
Westchester: 108 (10 new)
New York City: 36 (17 new)
Nassau: 19 (2 new)
Rockland: 6 (2 new)
Saratoga: 2
Suffolk: 1
Ulster: 1
The Governor also announced the State will partner with Northwell Health to set up a satellite testing facility in New Rochelle. Visits would operate by appointment only. More information will be posted soon on the State Department of Health website.
“The largest cluster of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country is located in New Rochelle, and as the numbers continue to go up we need a special public health strategy to contain it,” Governor Cuomo said.
“We are moving from containment to mitigation, and because much of the transmission of this disease tends to happen on a geographic basis, we are attacking this hotspot at the source.
As the number of positive cases rises, I am urging all New Yorkers to remember the bottom line: we talk about all this stuff to keep the public informed — not to incite fear — and if you are not a member of the vulnerable population then there is no reason for excess anxiety.”
New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said, “As we see the number of cases continue to rise based upon close contacts with persons who are positive for COVID-19, there is a particular need to reduce the opportunity for further close contacts. These opportunities include schools, churches, synagogues, and other event spaces where large numbers of people gather and remain together for extended periods of time. Although we believe that the risk generally to New Yorkers is low, I have recommended this strategy to reduce opportunities for further spread with the goal of reducing the number of new cases we are seeing in New Rochelle.”
The list of facilities in the containment area is being promulgated in consultation with local partners including the County Executive and the Mayor of New Rochelle.
The State will work with impacted schools to ensure any child who currently depends on food assistance programs will continue to relieve those benefits during the two-week period.
Mayor’s Update to White Plains on the Virus as of 5 PM
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We are continuing to see the number of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases rise.
The Governor today confirmed 37 additional cases in New York State, bringing the total to 142. 98 of those cases (16 new cases) are in Westchester County.
The City stepped up cleaning and disinfecting at all city buildings and facilities last week and continues to make this a priority.
White Plains Library Foundation 25th Anniversary Gala, which had been scheduled for March 14th, has been POSTPONED. The Foundation made this decision out of an abundance of caution and concern about the evolving nature of this outbreak.
It bears repeating since we know that many residents are concerned about community spread of COVID-19, specifically in White Plains.
At this time, for privacy and safety reasons, NYS DOH is not providing either municipal or county governments with specific information about where those who have tested positive live. The city, along with the county, is advocating for the state to release additional information.
Residents who are concerned and/or have questions about coronavirus should call the NYS DOH hotline at: 1-888-364-3065. This hotline is staffed 24/7. We urge everyone to continue to practice common sense preventive measures. While there is currently no vaccine to prevent this virus, these simple steps can help stop the spread of this and other respiratory viruses:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
In addition to general guidance provided to the public, NYS has been providing sector-specific guidance to groups such as health care workers and nursing homes. We expect more of this in the coming days. We continue to work with state, county, and local officials to ensure a coordinated response and will continue to update residents on a regular basis. For more information access these trustworthy resources:
NYS DOH:
https://health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/coronavirus/
CDC:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html
Westchester County DOH:
https://health.westchestergov.com/