IT’S OPENING DAY! THE BEST DAY OF THE YEAR!

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WPCNR Press Box. March 27, 2025:  

They’re getting READY at the Big Ball Park, as Red Barber called it.

Today the Bronx Bombers return to Yankee StadiUM and play Milwaukee at 1 PM.

In the honor of Opening Day, WPCNR brings back this original celebration of The Day I wrote about why Opening Day is the best day of the year  

OPENING DAY

OPENING DAY is better than Christmas Day, When you look out  and know they’ll play, Dreary gray or brilliant spring sunray Opening Day means The Big Show is back today.

Decades past, Opening Day for fanatics starved, Eager for  sharp crack of ash on horsehide carved; Pennants snapping in northwest winds Top ramparts of inviting walls arches  and sculpted friezes wistfully escarped. 

Fans lucky to get away with ducats Marvel at flannels sharp whites pristeen, To play in the warm zephyrs in NY blazened caps, Dashing specks of white warmup on the greenest green.

Motor cars pant in  traffic jams on the Deegan, Down Yawkey Way, on 35th and Shields or Waveland’s jam. The first glimpse of storied Park, The place where ball is played, where ghosts of Ted, Babe, Duke Mel, Spahnie, Whitey, Mickey, Willie, Yaz, Minnie and Sandy lark.

Pay a fortune to park, pass stogie smoking old men at the same gates for a hundred years,

Now out into the street 

You go, aroma of roasting chestnuts, pungent cigars sweet,

Cries of “scorecard heah” “programs,heah” shout out, neath light towers to heaven.

Fans in cap and uniform, little boys and girls gawk in awe hoping to make the Anthem Never seeing such sheer walls, topped with the legend “Game Today 1:30 PM.”

Clutching slim cardboard tix to Section 14 Upper Deck up to the turnstiles Festooned with souvenirs more dear as diamonds, beyond, the lure of endless aisles.

Into  press of crowd, grizzled usher,

RIPS YOUR TICKET.

Turnstile turns, clicks, and into the cathedral of ball you go Into the rotunda greeted with magic signs dazzling the senses — UPPER LEVELS SECTIONS 1 to 39, 2 to 40

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Hawkers shout –Voices of Flatbush — colorful books in hand

“Yeahhbook heah,” “Dodger Yearbook here,” “Hot dog, heah,” Assail  ears! Up ramps you climb to the sign “NEXT HOMESTAND”

Walking the catwalk,sliver of blue is first look of the magic sphere Into the sunlight splaying the vast rake of the mighty stand.

Below are baseball knights of the diamond in white hues Cavorting, snapping throws across immaculate red clay As majestic fungo bats — CRACK! send white spheres soaring to filling bleachers a mile away, Bunting flutters from the deck rails red, white and true blues.

Old Glory furls on  highest pole in centerfield Colorful signs deliver the manly flavor of the only real game, GILLETTE To Look Sharp, The Red Sox use Lifeboy, Schaefer It’s A Hit Hey, Neighbor Have a Gansett, White Owl Cigars, Hit Sign Win Suit

From old friendly walls, to Gladys Gooding on the organ Comfy old green scoreboard display Today’s games in the bigs BETTER THAN CNN CHI CLE BOS DET, CHI STL, NY WAS make you king for a day. Two Bits for a scorecard, usher wipes your seat, ballpark fills your heart.

Penciling lineup 42 2B, 1 SS, 14 1B, 4 CF, 39 C, 6 RF, 23 LF 19 3B 36 P

Smell of beer, peanuts pretzels. I love it

Nippy air, warm rays sink into face feels nice,

Starters wheel, deal, kicking high on sidelines fueling expectancy

Men in blue, arms folded solemnly conduct the home plate regimen Casey, Ralph , Walter, Joe, Sparky exchange lineup cards and knowing Ground rules by heart, go over them for ritual’s sake. Bob Shepard “The Voice of God” speaks “Good afternoon, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Welcome to Yankee StadiUM .”

“Please rise for the playing of our national anthem,” Nancy Faust at organ note by note renders baseball’s theme song Rising on the breeze, uniting do-rag and ball cap, Fedora, ponytail and bouffant in the spirit of the greatEST game.

Grass is never greener on opening days Strikes are louder, long drives scream with authority into the alleys Beers with whiter than white high creamy heads,

Taste crisp cold mellow best brew you drink all year

Smashes laser through short in the gap in raucous rallies

Magicians without wands start 6-4-3s, (if you’re scoring at home)

Backhand sure hits losing their caps

“Oh what a play’s “crackle on WGN with “CUBS WIN!”‘S

Jack and Mel, Vince, Red, Curt and Murph , Gussie, Marty, John and Suzyn , Ernie, The Gunner, are back at mikes turning mundane days

Into joy with a ninth inning elixir and “happy recaps”

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The Great Pete Rose, The Greatest of them all now eternal “Charlie Hustle” at the Plate,1975 again, Wrigley Field (Photo by John Bailey)

Thunderous ROARS AWARD the 2-out winner again creating big kids’ grins.

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MARCH 26 — WESTCHESTER DISTRICT ATTORNEY CACACE CALLS FOR REFORM EXTENDING TIMEFRAMES TO FURNISH DISCOVERY MATERIAL. DISMISSALS AS A RESULT OF LATE DISCOVERIES HIT 14.6%. PRACTICE PUTS VICTIMS AT RISK.

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District Attorney Seal

SUSAN CACACE
WESTCHESTER COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY

MARCH 26, 2025
STATEMENT ON INCREASING CASE DISMISSALS FOLLOWING 2019 DISCOVERY REFORMS

In January 2020, new, significant changes to New York’s discovery statutes took effect that established shorter timeframes for sharing discoverable material with the defense. The new discovery statute has since been repeatedly amended without addressing its fundamental flaws.

In 2019, before the reforms went into effect, case dismissals in Westchester comprised an 8.7% share of total case dispositions. In 2020, the first year the discovery amendments went into effect, that number climbed to 11.7%.

By 2023, case dismissals comprised 14.6% of all dispositions, and in 2024, that number reached 15.4%. 

That means between 2019 and 2024, case dismissal rates in Westchester have nearly doubled. This is attributable, in large part, to the discovery changes that took effect in 2020.

(Please note, statistics for the years 2021 and 2022 have been omitted due to incomplete data collection.)

Because of the new timetables included in the reforms, and the way the law treats belated disclosures, judges are dismissing cases even where discoverable material was withheld inadvertently, or where the delayed disclosure was in no way prejudicial to the defense.

Once a case is dismissed against a criminal defendant, it cannot be retried.

On Monday, DA Cacace was proud to stand alongside Gov. Kathy Hochul, Domestic Violence Bureau Chief Joyce Miller, fellow District Attorneys, advocates and domestic violence survivors in support of overdue reforms to New York’s discovery laws.

DA Cacace released the following statement regarding the broken discovery process:

“The discovery reforms enacted in 2019 have turned the criminal justice system on its head. Survivors of domestic violence trust that if they summon the courage to report their abusers to the police, the system will treat their claims with care and consideration. But the system is no longer holding up its end of this deal.

“In Westchester and statewide, cases are being dismissed on mere technicalities, despite the due diligence and good-faith efforts of prosecutors, because of factors well beyond their control.

“While some of the efforts to modernize New York’s discovery laws were well-intentioned, the current system is no longer sustainable. The stories of victims and survivors being denied justice break my heart and should shock anyone who believes in a fair and efficient criminal justice system. I call upon my counterparts in the New York State Assembly and Senate to include needed improvements to our discovery laws in the upcoming budget.”
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MARCH 26–CONSUMERS’ ENERGY COSTS ARE LOW FROM PRIVATE SECTOR ENERGY MARKETS

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WPCNR THE LETTER TICKER

Mar. 25, 2025
ALBANY, NY – The Affordable Clean Power Alliance (ACPA), a coalition supporting competitive power generation, today released a comprehensive report by FTI Consulting at the Independent Power Producers of New York’s (IPPNY) Spring Conference.

The report provides evidence that competitive wholesale electricity markets in New York have delivered lower costs for consumers, accelerated environmental progress, and improved reliability.

These findings align with Governor Kathy Hochul’s recent commitment to energy affordability, as evidenced by her pushing back against the continuous double-digit rate hikes from utilities.

Even as independent power producers have driven down the cost of electricity in New York, regulated utilities have continued to charge more for their services, despite making inadequate investments into the transmission and distribution infrastructure needed to support the State’s shift towards renewable energy. This report  emphasizes that competitive markets are vital in protecting consumers from the higher costs and financial risks associated with utility-owned generation.

Key findings from the report:

  • Consumer savings exceeding 35%: Independent power generation has consistently lowered costs for New Yorkers compared to utility-owned generation. Consumers in New York are paying 35% less for power supply today compared to what they were paying for the power generated by monopolistic utilities.
  • Reduced financial risk for consumers: Competitive markets incentivize efficient project management, protecting consumers from bearing unnecessary risks and escalating costs.
  • Accelerated emissions reductions: Competitive markets facilitate quicker adoption of innovative, cleaner technologies, resulting in greater environmental benefits. As a result, New York has one of the lowest emitting energy systems per capita in the country. The energy produced in New York emits less than half the carbon dioxide compared to states with utility-owned generation.
  • Substantial economic impact: Competitive generation projects support nearly 19,000 jobs statewide and generate over $1.5 billion in state and local tax revenues, contributing significantly to local economies.

Utilities should continue to focus on transmission and distribution in New York State.

Historically, they have had many cost overruns with generation projects, which fall onto the backs of consumers. Since New York transitioned to a competitive energy market approach, energy consumers are not burdened with cost overruns on generation projects.

Additionally, utility-owned generators would not be able to supply new generation in New York at a lower cost or on a faster timeline than independent power producers. Utilities would face the same requirements and hurdles as independent power producers in developing projects.

The findings of this important study clearly demonstrate that competitive energy markets are the best way forward to meeting New York’s energy goals and that utility-owned generation should not be considered. Indeed, the PSC has repeatedly upheld the view that competition is the best way to achieve the State’s goals. 

The analysis cautions that reversing the successful competitive market approach and reverting to utility-owned generation could significantly lead to higher energy costs for consumers, slow progress toward the State’s clean energy goals, and limit market innovation.

The full report is now available on the coalition’s website: nyaffordablecleanpower.org.

Valessa Souter-Kline, Northeast regional director for the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA): 
“It’s pretty simple: competition in electricity generation is good for consumers. With the cost of living and energy bills rising, the last thing New Yorkers need is a return to the failed model of utility-owned power generation. If I were a state legislator, I would not want to try to explain to my constituents why I voted for a bill that will raise their utility bills and make it harder for the state to reach its clean energy goals.”

Marguerite Wells, Executive Director of the Alliance for Clean Energy New York (ACE NY):
“This report clearly demonstrates that New York’s current landscape of competitive power is in the best interest of New York ratepayers. As we continue our energy transition, we want to encourage this competitiveness and bring the maximum amount of developers to the market to keep costs down and speed project development. Utility ownership of generation would chill the market, reduce the number of players, and transfer risk onto the ratepayers.”

Gavin Donohue, President & CEO of the Independent Power Producers of New York (IPPNY):
“This important report clearly illustrates the many benefits of competition within the wholesale electricity market and that the risks of utility-owned generation should be left behind. This evidence, as demonstrated by proven experience in this State and the PSC’s repeated wise decisions, is unwavering over the past two and a half decades that competitive electricity markets are the best approach to advancing the State’s energy future. The PSC’s correct decision to shift away from monopolistic utilities owning electric generation toward the competitive market was made to protect all New Yorkers from project costs and risks, while ensuring a reliable grid. Meeting the State’s energy goals will require an extraordinary amount of electricity and investments, and New York’s independent power producers are continuing to invest in the necessary resources to get us there in the most affordable way.”

Bill Acker, Executive Director of the New York Battery and Energy Storage Technology Consortium (NY-BEST):
“FTI’s analysis highlights that competitive private ownership of electric generation has been a key driver of lower costs for customers and faster progress toward New York’s clean energy goals. Similarly, competitively developed energy storage will provide critical services to the electricity grid while ensuring the greatest value for New Yorkers. A return to broad utility ownership risks higher costs and slower development, ultimately undermining the State’s ambitious climate targets.”

Kristina Persaud, Senior Principal at Advanced Energy United:
“The verdict is in: competition works. New York’s competitive power market has delivered lower costs, cleaner energy, and a more reliable grid. Rolling back progress with a utility-owned model would mean higher bills and slower clean energy growth. Lawmakers should stick with what’s working—because no one wants to pay more for less.”

Noah Ginsburg, Executive Director of New York Solar Energy Industries Association (NYSEIA): 
“FTI’s report demonstrates what we already know: competition lowers energy costs for New York families and businesses. Investor-owned utilities have a cost-plus model that makes cost overruns a profit center. Allowing utility-owned generation will not just increase energy prices; it will have a chilling effect on New York’s vibrant solar industry. Rather than undermining what’s working, New York decision-makers should focus on fixing what’s broken: permitting reform and interconnection reform to drive down the cost of clean energy.”

Mike Mager, Counsel, Multiple Intervenors:
“Competitive markets have stabilized energy prices in New York and enhanced reliability, thus benefiting our state’s large industrial, commercial, and institutional energy consumers. This report affirms Multiple Intervenors’ position that private investment in power generation results in lower electricity costs, greater reliability, and improved environmental performance. Returning to utility-owned generation would only increase financial burdens on businesses already navigating challenging economic conditions. Policymakers should maintain their focus on supporting competitive markets as the best path forward for affordable, reliable energy in New York.”
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MARCH 25–TRAFFIC THEY DON’T TELL YOU ABOUT ON TRAFFIC REPORTS: BEWARE TRAVELING WEST ON INTERSTATE 80 NEW JERSEY TRAFFIC THEY DO NOT TELL YOU ABOUT. WHO KNEW?

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WPCNR TRAVELIN’ MAN. By John F. Bailey. March 25, 2025:

Brenda Starr and I went West today to a family reunion in The Caldwells, New Jersey. Now I had not been on Interstate 80 in a long time. As we approached Exit 52 for the Caldwells, I saw a very little sign saying “Detour Exit 34” this seemed curious to me. When I got to the famous Cloverleaf Tavern in Caldwell, now 92 years old. It came up in conversation that I-80 was closed both east and west bound at that exit.

Who knew?

It has been closed since February 10! Since I do not commute and go everywhere I have to go via Zoom, I do not listen to traffic reports.

I have to assume it is covered on the traffic reports. But then if you do not travel it regularly you may not know about it.

Let us assume I am the only one in the Northeast who does not know about it. So if there is anyone who is heading into New York on Interstate 80 on vacation or heading from New York on I-80

KNOW THIS: Do NOT take Interstate 80 to go way out west or travel the New York Metropolitan area.

You are detoured onto local roads at the Route 34 exit.

Why?  Massive mines that the Interstate was built over have caved in,  creating the world’s biggest potholes that make the roadway impossible.

This is a massive mistake in construction at the time the road was built.

This is News 12 meat.

Why is there not ongoing coverage and analysis on whether it is being corrected/repaired/rebuilt in the right way?

My suggestion:  heading east or west may be to take the New York Thruway  Westbound or Eastbound and take a southbound detour. If you are coming North to New York from the South…take the New Jersey Turnpike northbound, and the Pennsylvania Turnpike Eastbound.

Anybody have further suggestions on this major infrastructure error 80 years ago when this road was built send them to WPCNR@aol.com.

Jerseyans, my sympathies.

All we have to worry about in New York is Congestion pricing, horrible bumpy roads all over Westchester County and of course the drivers cowboying  20 miles (at least) over the speed limit, negligible enforcement of reckless aggressive driving.

Happy driving vacations everybody….and take the long way around.

Here is how the New Jersey  Department of Transporation assesses the Interstate 80 mess as of today:

Department of Transportation

I-80 Eastbound Sinkhole
Last Update: March 20, 2025
The New Jersey Department of Transportation closed and detoured I-80 eastbound at Exit 34 in Wharton, Morris County on Monday, February 10 after a depression in the center lane was observed.While NJDOT crews were conducting soil tests that night, the roadway collapsed. Crews excavated and stabilized the 11-foot by 11-foot sinkhole that was approximately four-feet deep. The compromised roadway is 75 feet away from a 40-foot by 40-foot sinkhole that was repaired in the right shoulder of I-80 eastbound near mile post 34 in late December 2024.

temporary bridge
February Sinkhole

When the sinkhole developed in February, the Department immediately began a series of geotechnical tests on I-80 eastbound and westbound to gain an understanding of subsurface conditions.

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Subsurface scanning

A drilling and grouting operation is ongoing to stabilize I-80 eastbound and to determine the area in which more extensive repairs are needed.

On March 19, an approximately 15-foot by 15-foot sinkhole opened up in the median in the I-80 eastbound work zone. Out of an abundance of caution, NJDOT immediately closed and detoured all lanes on I-80 westbound at Exit 34B/Route 15 northbound. Crews worked overnight to stabilize the area around the median sinkhole and are testing I-80 westbound to confirm the roadway’s integrity to determine what is necessary to reopen I-80 westbound. It has not yet been determined when I-80 westbound may be safe to reopen.

Once the drilling and grouting operations are complete, repair of a subsurface void will begin. This repair will be similar to the design implemented to repair the sinkhole in December.

temporary bridge
Drilling and Grouting
MILESTONES
Milestone Status
Establish emergency detour route Complete
Establish two-way traffic for residents Complete
Revise Signal Timing to Improve Traffic Flow Complete
Conduct Geotechnical Tests Complete
Proactive Drilling and Grouting Ongoing
I-80 westbound testing Ongoing
Reopen I-80 westbound To Be Determined
Sinkhole Repair Has yet to begin
Quality Assurance Testing Has yet to begin
Monitoring System Installation Has yet to begin
Milling and Paving Has yet to begin
I-80 eastbound Reopens To Be Determined
EMERGENCY REPAIR PHASES

The path to completing emergency repairs and reopening I-80 eastbound has several phases.

The timing for each phase has not yet been determined. However, the entire repair is expected to take approximately two months:

  • Geotechnical tests to assess the condition of the roadway base are complete. These tests established our work area and helped identify approximately 150 locations to drill and grout.
  • Drilling and grouting operations to probe subsurface conditions are expected to be completed in mid-April. This work is stabilizing the area under the roadway by filling holes and small voids and outlining the area where a more extensive repair is required.
  • Repairing the sinkhole will be the next phase. The repair will be similar to the design implemented in December. It will include excavating the area, installing a base of large stone with a wire mesh on top. More stone and a concrete layer will go over the wire mesh. Additional fill and soil will be placed on top of the concrete and compacted before several layers of asphalt will be applied to reconstruct the road.
  • Quality assurance testing will be done while repairs are being made and following completion of the repair to ensure the long-term stability of the roadway and the integrity of the repairs.
  • Installing a monitoring system to track surface and underground conditions will be done as part of the repair. There will be three types of monitors. Remote sensing technology on poles will scan the pavement for changes, while sensors beneath the road will detect early signs of subsurface movement. Deeper underground devices will monitor long-term soil stability.
  • Milling and paving the work area for a safe, smooth driving surface and reopening the road is the final phase.
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Median Excavation
EMERGENCY FUNDING

Governor Phil Murphy declared a State of Emergency for Morris County on March 8 to enable access to Federal funding. The Declaration was one step in the process to apply for emergency federal funding from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). NJDOT is continuing to work with FHWA.

TRAFFIC MITIGATION

The Department is continuing to work closely with local officials and the New Jersey State Police to improve mobility along the detour and alternate routes in the region.

Due the significant impact of the closures, GPS and other map services may reroute traffic onto local roads that are not designed to handle commercial vehicles or increased traffic volume. This is particularly important for trucks as there are low bridges and weight restrictions on many roads in the area. Please remain on the designated detours or alternate routes. Follow all posted signs and regulations, and if you are approaching an intersection, please “Don’t block the box.”

In addition, the Department has adjusted the timing of signals on Route 15, Route 10, and Route 46, which serve as the detour and alternate routes, respectively. NJDOT and New Jersey State Police will continue to monitor traffic conditions and make adjustments as necessary to mitigate delays. We ask motorists to avoid the area, plan extra travel time, and be patient while repairs are ongoing.

NJDOT also is using technology to send messages to commercial truckers to provide information about the closure, detour, and alternate routes. The Department is also using digital messaging signs and working with our regional transportation partners to share information so drivers can make informed decisions about potential alternate routes to take.

DETOURS AND ALTERNATE ROUTES

I-80 eastbound traffic is being detoured at Exit 34. The following detour remains in place:

I-80 eastbound Exit 34 Detour:

Motorists on Route 15 southbound wishing to take the bridge over Rockaway River will be directed to:

  • Motorists on I-80 eastbound are being directed to take Exit 34 to Route 15/Wharton/Dover/Sparta
  • At the end of the ramp, stay right following signs for Route 15/Jefferson/Dover/Sparta/Picatinny Arsenal
  • Stay in the right lane on North Main Street following signs for Route 15 North/Jefferson/Sparta
  • Bear right toward Route 15 northbound/Picatinny Arsenal
  • Stay left, following signs for Pondview Drive/U and Left Turns
  • Using both lanes, make a U-turn at the Pondview Drive traffic signal and merge onto Route 15 southbound
  • Stay left to take the exit to I-80 eastbound

I-80 westbound traffic is being detoured at Exit 34B. The following detour is in place:

I-80 westbound Exit 34B Detour:

Motorists on Route 15 southbound wishing to take the bridge over Rockaway River will be directed to:

  • Motorists on I-80 westbound will be directed to take Exit 34B to Route 15 north/Jefferson/Sparta
  • Keep left on Route 15 northbound
  • Use the left two left lanes at Pondview Drive to make a U-turn onto Route 15 southbound
  • Stay right to take the ramp to I-80 westbound
Route 10 eastbound Alternate Route:
  • Motorists on I-80 eastbound are advised to take Exit 28/Route 46 eastbound to Route 10/Ledgewood/Lake Hopatcong, which is several miles before the closure
  • Continue on Route 46 eastbound
  • Stay right to take Route 10 eastbound
  • Take the exit to I-287 northbound
  • Stay right to take the ramp to I-80 eastbound
Route 46 eastbound Alternate Route:
    • Motorists on I-80 eastbound are advised to take Exit 28/Route 46 eastbound to Route 10/Ledgewood/Lake Hopatcong, which is several miles before the closure
    • Continue on Route 46 eastbound
    • Stay in the two left lanes to turn left at the traffic signal to continue on Route 46 eastbound
    • Turn left onto Route 15 northbound in Dover, back to I-80
    • Stay right to take the ramp to I-80 eastbound

OR

  • Continue on Route 46 eastbound for about 12 miles and stay left for I-80 eastbound
temporary bridge
Location Map
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MARCH 25–CAITLIN RIVERS OUTBREAK OUTLOOK: NORTHEAST … RIVERS FAMILY STRUCK BY FLU

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Outbreak Outlook – Northeast – Mar 24

Mar 24

Welcome to the Northeast edition of Outbreak Outlook! It is only available to paid subscribers. If you wish to become a paid subscriber and access region-specific information, please click the Subscribe now button below. Thanks for reading! -Caitlin

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Respiratory Diseases

Influenza

We are seeing steady improvements in flu season, but activity levels are still on the high side compared to what we normally expect in springtime.

New Jersey leads the Northeast in flu activity with outpatient ILI at 5.4% (down slightly from 5.6% the previous week). ED visits stand at 2.6%, down from 3.3%.

Maine reports the second highest outpatient ILI at 4.5%, a big decrease from 5.8% the previous week. The state maintains one of the region’s highest ED visit percentages at 3.7%, though this is a significant drop from the previous week’s 5.3%.

Northeast: Outpatient influenza-like illness
% of visits to the doctor that are for fever and either cough or sore throat

New York state and New Hampshire follow closely with ILI rates of 4.2% and 4.1% respectively. New York saw a notable decrease from 5.6%, while New Hampshire dropped from 4.7%. New York reports the region’s highest hospitalization rate at 6.0 per 100,000, down from 7.9. New Hampshire has the highest ED visit percentage in the Northeast at 3.7%, which decreased significantly from 5.4% the previous week.

New York City is still reporting very high outpatient ILI at 7%. Activity is coming down—but verrrry slowly—and remains well above what we normally see this time fo year. A large fraction of activity in the city, over half, is influenza B.

Massachusetts and Connecticut share similar ILI patterns, with rates of 3.9% and 3.6% respectively. Massachusetts decreased notably from 4.8%, while Connecticut saw a smaller decline from 3.8%. Connecticut has the region’s second highest hospitalization rate at 3.7 per 100,000, a decrease from 6.9. ED visit percentages stand at 2.4% for Massachusetts (down from 3.4%) and 3.3% for Connecticut (down from 3.8%).

Rhode Island and Pennsylvania report the lowest ILI activity in the Northeast. Rhode Island shows a 3.0% ILI rate (down slightly from 3.1%) with ED visits at 1.7%, the lowest in the region. Pennsylvania has the region’s lowest ILI at 2.3% (down from 2.8%) with ED visits at 2.3%. Vermont, while not included in the ILI dataset, reports ED visits at 2.7%, down from 3.7% the previous week.

Northeast: ED visits for influenza (%)
% of visits to the emergency department that are for influenza

COVID-19

We seem to be entering a lull in much of the region. Wastewater activity held steady at a low level this past week, and severe illness continued to decline.

Wastewater activity is very low in New York, Maine, and Vermont. It is low in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. However, wastewater activity is high and increasing in Connecticut and New Jersey.

Northeast: Covid-19 wastewater concentration
Wastewater concentration of SARS-CoV-2

ED visits were minimal (<1.5%) and held steady or declined in every state in the region this past week. Hospitalizations are stable or decreasing across the region, with most states reporting quite low rates. Pennsylvania continues to be the exception, with an elevated rate of 5.5 hospitalizations per 100,000 people, though this decreased again this past week.

Northeast: ED visits for Covid-19 (%)
% of visits to the emergency department that are for Covid-19

RSV

Not much going on with RSV. Activity continues to recede as we head further into spring.

Other Bugs

Several other causes of cold and flu-like symptoms are circulating:

  • Human metapneumovirus has sharply increased and is now at its highest point this season.
  • Human coronaviruses appear to have peaked a few weeks ago, and while rates are still high, they are on the way down.
  • Adenovirus is picking up a bit again, after peaking near the end of the year.
  • Rhinoviruses/enteroviruses remain low, but have increased a bit this fast few weeks.

Stomach Bugs

Tiny bit of good news on the norovirus front. Norovirus rates have decreased for the past two weeks, and test positivity is now at 15.1%. This is still very high, but is – just barely – lower than it has been at any point since the beginning of December.

Source: CDC

Food recalls

The following foods are being recalled because they are contaminated. Please check your cupboards and throw out any of these items:

New:

  • Lean Cuisine and Stouffer’s frozen meals (more info)
  • Savage Pet Cat Food Chicken [for cats]. Due to potential contamination with H5N1 – this poses a health risk for cats as well as potentially to humans as well. (more info)
  • SeaBear Smoked Clam Chowder and Alehouse Clam Chowder (more info)

Previously reported:

  • Enoki mushrooms sold under Daily Veggies brand (more info)
  • Hot pot sauce sold under Wangshihe brand (more info)
  • Prepared vegetables sold at Tokyo Central/Marukai stores in California (more info)
  • If you have food allergies, you may wish to review these FDA safety alerts and USDA alerts for foods with undeclared allergens.

In other news

  • My household was struck by flu B this weekend, so I do not have items for this section this week.
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REPORT FROM THE NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY: THE 2025-26 BUDGET

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Dear Friends,

In my last newsletter, I provided an update on the Governor’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2026, which spans from April 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026. After joint budget hearings between the State Senate and Assembly, along with further review by staff, committee chairs, and senior leadership, the Legislature has completed its evaluation of the proposed budget. On March 13, both chambers adopted their One House Budget resolutions, which contain summaries of recommended changes to the Executive Budget.

Conference committees — made up of representatives from both the State Senate and Assembly — have met to reconcile the differences between the two chambers. These reconciled recommendations will form the basis for negotiations with the Executive to reach a three-way agreement on the final budget. While there are areas of disagreement, I am happy to report those disagreements are not as significant as last year’s budget cycle.
Before I delve into the highlights of the One House Budget, however, I wanted to take this opportunity to remind everyone of some important upcoming dates.

The deadline to nominate a 93rd Assembly District 2025 Woman of Distinction is coming up THIS Monday, March 24th.
Thank you to everyone who has submitted a nomination. If you have not yet nominated someone and would like to, please click here.

Also, please join me on April 4th for our New Office Open House! Originally scheduled for today, we unfortunately needed to move the date due to a conflict.
The Open House will be a great opportunity to connect… and there will be refreshments! RSVPs requested, not required, by clicking here.

Finally, there are a couple of other important deadlines coming up, including for recipients and caregivers who rely on the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP), as well as those of you who may not have transitioned your existing form of DMV ID to a REAL ID. More on both of those below.

The Assembly One House Budget
The Assembly’s One House budget builds on the Governor’s Executive budget, adding key funding for healthcare, school aid, higher education, the environment, and childcare. The total budget proposed by the Assembly is $256.5 billion, which is $4.5 billion, or 1.8%, higher than the Executive’s proposal. While there are no major disagreements between the Assembly’s and the Governor’s proposals, the Assembly’s version excludes certain non-budget-related policy issues, such as changes to laws regarding discovery and involuntary commitment. This doesn’t necessarily imply opposition; rather, the Assembly believes these non-fiscal policy issues should be addressed through the legislative, rather than budgetary, process.

 

Education

Unlike last year’s budget, the Governor’s budget includes no cuts to Foundation Aid for public schools.

It proposes a minimum 2.0% annual increase, while the Assembly has proposed a 2.9% increase. The Assembly would also boost funding for universal pre-kindergarten, expand the universal school meals program to include breakfast and snacks, and increase funding and tuition assistance for both the SUNY and CUNY systems.

 

The Environment

The Assembly proposal includes several increases in environmental funding, including $100 million to boost the Environmental Protection Fund (bringing the total to $500 million) and a $100 million increase for clean water infrastructure (bringing the total to $600 million). 

The Governor’s budget proposed an unspecified allocation of $1 billion over five years for climate mitigation and adaptation capital grants. The Assembly, however, has earmarked specific funds for energy efficiency and clean energy projects, including:

– $330 million to NYSERDA for energy efficiency programs

– $200 million for zero-emission transportation projects

– $150 million for thermal energy networks

– $100 million for electric vehicle fast charging stations and supporting infrastructure

– $100 million to NYSERDA for school-based efficiency and renewable energy

– $100 million for Charge Ready NY, and $20 million for municipal buildings, public hospitals, and schools

 

Child Tax Credit and Afterschool Programs

The Assembly’s budget proposal strengthened the Governor’s proposed child tax credit expansion by adopting the Working Families Tax Credit. This will consolidate existing credits to provide qualified families with up to $1,600 per child annually. It includes:

– A $1,000 credit for children aged three and under.

– A $500 credit for children aged four through 16.

The credit will be phased in over five years, starting with a maximum of $550 per qualifying child in the first year and reaching $1,600 per child by the final year.

The Assembly’s proposal also increased funding for programs administered by the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) by $372.6 million, bringing the total to $6.2 billion. This includes $100 million for afterschool programs in high need districts that serve youth up to age 18.

We also proposed $5 million in funding for afterschool providers who are not eligible for other state-funded programs but primarily serve economically disadvantaged students. I led my Assembly colleagues in advocating for this $5 million allocation, which would provide a source of funding for the afterschool programs left out of the most recent funding round.

Housing

The Assembly’s proposal includes $4.6 billion for the Division of Housing and Community Renewal (HCR), $2.4 billion more than the Executive’s proposal. A major component of the Assembly’s budget to reduce homelessness is the inclusion of the Housing Access Voucher Program, which allocates $250 million to provide rental assistance to those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The Assembly also proposed an additional $100 million for Mitchell-Lama and NYC Housing Authority units, and $750 million for Mitchell-Lama preservation and homeownership.

Additionally, I was pleased to see the adoption of a proposal I worked on with Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg. The Governor’s budget allocates $10.5 million for “technical assistance” to municipalities seeking certification as pro-housing communities. At our request, the proposal now provides that the funds may be used for grants to help municipalities carry out their housing plans.  

 

Inflation Rebate Checks & Middle-Class Tax Cuts

The Assembly’s budget includes the Governor’s proposal for a one-time $3 billion inflation refund credit, providing:

– $500 for taxpayers filing jointly with incomes below $300,000

– $300 for single filers with incomes below $150,000

Additionally, the Assembly would enhance the Governor’s proposed Middle-Class Tax Cut to include an immediate 1% tax cut for taxpayers with incomes below $323,200.

 

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I hope this update is helpful. As always, I will continue to advocate for the priorities that matter most to our community. Thank you for your ongoing support!

CDPAP Transition Deadline – March 28th
Recipients and caregivers who rely on the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) have until March 28 to transition to the state’s new Statewide Fiscal Intermediary, Public Partnership, LLC. CDPAP provides services to an estimated 250,000 New Yorkers – not only to people with disabilities but also others with long-term needs under Medicaid.
Individuals and personal assistants who are currently participating in CDPAP should call 1-833-247-5346 to be walked through the process, and further information can be found here. Caregivers who register by the deadline will receive a $100 bonus.

 

A list of community-based organizations that are approved to help consumers transition to PPL, along with the languages they speak and medical focus, can be found here.

As a member of the NYS Assembly Standing Committee on People with Disabilities, I have shared my constituents’ concerns with Assembly leadership regarding the significant changes that will result from this transition (indeed, some of you may remember my discussion of this in last year’s budget newsletter). To that end, my staff and I have been monitoring the transition since Governor Hochul put it in place last year.

My biggest concern centers on potential disruption or suspension in the delivery of critical services for individuals who, through no fault of their own, are not registered in the PPL system. My staff and I have been in close contact with PPL. While the PPL representatives with whom we work are responsive and helpful, we are nonetheless aware of the significant time it takes and snafus that occur while registering with the system – even for individuals very conversant and experienced with CDPAP.

We understand the NYS Department of Health has contingency plans should there remain individuals who are not registered by the deadline. We continue to monitor the situation very closely. In the meantime, please reach out to my office if you are having any issues with this transition and we will do everything we can to assist you.

REAL ID Deadline – May 7, 2025
After a two-year delay, the deadline to get your REAL ID from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is rapidly approaching! Starting May 7, 2025, all residents will be required to have a REAL ID to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings, unless they have a valid passport. For more information, including a list of necessary documents, please click here.

Ramadan Mubarak
Finally, to all those who are celebrating Ramadan, I wish you and your family peace, happiness, and harmony.
As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office with any questions or if there is any assistance we can provide. You can always reach me at burdickc@nyassembly.gov or by calling (914) 244-4450. My staff and I are always ready to help.

Please also follow me on Facebook, Twitter/X, and Instagram for continued up-to-date information.

Miss any of our previous newsletters? You can find them here.

 
Sincerely yours,
Office of Assemblymember Chris Burdick | Website
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WHITE PLAINS WEEK NEWS NOW THE MARCH 21 REPORT WITH JOHN BAILEY AND THE NEWS ON WWW.WPCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

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THE IMPACT NEWS NETWORK!

BANKRUPTING NEW YORK BEGINS

 

DOT DEMANDS MTA MAKE SUBWAYS SAFER OR ELSE

STARVING HUNGRY WESTCHESTER 

37 YEARS OF A WESTCHESTER THAT GOES HUNGRY EVERY DAY

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CUTS FUNDS

FOR THE HUNGRY 25% OF 2025-26 BUDGET

ALBANY ADOPTS WAIT AND SEE IF THEY HAPPEN ATTITUDE ON CUTS

YONKERS TAKES CON ED RATE INCREASES TO COURT

CONSIDERS GOOD CAUSE EVICTION LAW  –THE EFFECT

WHILE WHITE PLAINS COMMON COUNCIL MULLS SAME LAW

AND MORE

THE WHITE PLAINS HIGH SCHOOL PERFORMANCE

NITA LOWEY PASSES AWAY

JOHN BAILEY AND THE NEWS

THE BIG STORIES YOU DO NOT HEAR ABOUT

EVERY WEEK ON WHITE PLAINS WEEK

FOR THE LAST 24 YEARS

WESTCHESTER’S NEWSMAN

 

 

 

 

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March 20—Administration Rejects Alternative Social Security Office Location in White Plains

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COUNTY EXECUTIVE KEN JENKINS BLASTS TRUMP ADMINISTRATION FOR ABANDONING WESTCHESTER RESIDENTS

BY REJECTING BIPARTISAN PLAN TO KEEP SOCIAL SECURITY HEARING OFFICE IN WHITE PLAINS

(White Plains, NY) – Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins is slamming the Trump administration’s decision to reject a bipartisan effort—led by Jenkins, U.S. Congressman George Latimer, and U.S. Congressman Mike Lawler—to keep the Social Security Hearing Office in White Plains open. Despite the County’s offer to house the office in County-owned space to ensure continued access, Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek turned his back on Westchester residents.

In a letter to Latimer, Dudek stated that residents seeking Social Security services could instead travel to Lower Manhattan, New Haven, CT, the Bronx, or Goshen. Jenkins said the Trump administration is indifferent to seniors, individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable residents who depend on these services.

Jenkins said: “This is a disgraceful decision that prioritizes bureaucratic indifference over the well-being of Westchester residents. The Trump administration is effectively cutting off access to Social Security resources for those who need them most. Westchester County will not stand by while Washington abandons our communities. I will continue fighting alongside Congressman Latimer and Congressman Lawler to ensure our residents are not left behind.”

With the lease on the current Hearing Office at 75 S. Broadway in White Plains set to expire on May 31, Jenkins said they are exploring more options.

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MARCH 20–NEWCOMER TO WHITE PLAINS REACTS TO THE WHITE PLAINS OF TODAY, DEVELOPMENT.

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WPCNR THE LETTER TICKER. MARCH 20, 2025:

 

Dear White Plains Week:

I would like to suggest that you interview neighborhood association representatives about the communities of White Plains. I had no idea that there were so many! And I don’t know where they are all located and the area they encompass. It would be interesting to hear how developments impact each community.   

I’ve been in contact with Martin Berger about the project on Westchester Ave. I live on Franklin Ave. and I’m President of the co-op board where I live. Until I saw the Common Council meeting a couple of years ago, I had no knowledge of what was proposed. I contacted Mr. Berger, and he was very receptive to speaking with me, met with the board, and reached out to me again when changes to the development were going to be proposed.

I am not a fan of the Galleria property proposal.

I think that it is too much for that space and talk about congestion! As you presented a few years back when bus and bike lanes were going to be part of the Tarrytown Rd. corridor, and as mentioned over the years, there is one primary way in and out of White Plains (Main St. and Hamilton Ave)….

can you imagine what it is going to look like when 5,000 people are added to that two block area!

Not everyone works in NYC and will take Metro North.

Not everyone wants to walk where they have to go or have business in the area which makes it a sensible alternative to walk.

And the high-end restaurants that are proposed! As Councilman Brasch mentioned, there are lower income families in White Plains.

Do you realize that we don’t have any fast-food restaurants in downtown White Plains? No McDonalds, Burger King, Tocco Bell, Wendy’s. Or even restaurants like Olive Garden and Apple Bee’s. Maybe these types of restaurants should be considered.

Signed  (A new  Resident of White Plains recently moved to White Plains.)

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