Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Tonight as we are getting ready to rest for the night or to take on a night shift, I want to let everyone know that we are working day and night to ensure all New Yorkers receive the help they need during these trying days.
Today, Mayor de Blasio announced that the City is in the State of Emergency. I want to make sure that everyone understands what that means. I also want to clear out any misconceptions or misinformation shared via social media or news outlets.
The City has instructed all New Yorkers to cancel all large gatherings. These are defined as having an excess of 500+ people, parades, rallies, concerts, sports, professional conferences. So far, the City has temporary canceled or rescheduled stadium and arena games and other large events. For gatherings below 500 people, the City has instructed New Yorkers to reduce occupancy by 50%.
Furthermore, following the instructions from the State and the City, public schools in New York City will remain open until further notice. Across the City, there have been some schools closings because of a handful of Coronavirus cases. These schools have closed for 24 hours as the disease detectives investigate and access the situations accordingly.
The City is asking that schools either cancel or transition online any non-essential, non-instructional activities. These can include but are not limited to:
- PSAL activities (games, practices)
- Assemblies
- Parent-teacher conferences
- PTA meetings
- School plays, and recitals
Lastly, as previously mentioned, if you have any questions, please feel free to call our offices or 311 for more information. If you would like to receive free real-time updates about COVID-19 text COVID to 692-692.
We advise everyone to:
- Stay home if you are sick
- Always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when sneezing or coughing
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- Do not touch your face with unwashed hands
- Avoid shaking hands
- Consider telecommuting, biking or walking to work if possible
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
If you have family or friends who are elderly, have compromised immune systems, chronic respiratory, or coronary issues, do not visit them if you feel sick.
I will continue working alongside my colleagues and City Agencies to ensure that all New Yorkers especially those living in underserved communities receive the resources and support they need to stay healthy. Additionally, I will be sending a letter, which is supported by a growing number of Council Members, to Governor Cuomo and Mayor de Blasio in support of giving all employees paid sick leave until we Can resolve this crisis.
We are facing a situation that we have not previously experienced nor prepared for, but the resilience and character that New Yorkers have displayed during these past few weeks gives me and many others hope that we will come out triumphant. I hope you all enjoy the weekend and remember that we will always be here to help.
Sincerely,
Ydanis Rodríguez
NYC Council Member
District 10: Washington Heights, Inwood, Marble Hill
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