6 Days and Counting Our Vaccines Don't Work Kathy Hochul Says

 

I have always tried to be honest with you when I could, and I have told you the only way to be safe is to get vaccinated against any and all variants of the COVID-19 virus. I could not believe my eyes when I read Executive Order 11.1 from Governor David Patterson, I mean Kathy Hochul, Kathy states about the Omicron variant, WHEREAS, this variant has been identified in all 50 U.S. states, including New York, and more than 104 countries; Duh Kathy, New York is one of the fifty states, and one of the original thirteen colonies.

Then she writes, WHEREAS, this Omicron variant has been shown to be highly transmissible and may cause exponential spread; We already know that Kathy. but when she writes, WHEREAS, current vaccinations do not appear to be as effective against Omicron infection, while remaining stronger against severe disease; Is she nuts? The state legislature should look at removing Kathy Hochul as governor immediately. Why are we telling people to get vaccinated, and making mandates that people must get vaccinated if the Governor of New York State says our vaccines are not working?

No. 11.1: Declaring a Disaster Emergency in the State of New York

 

E X E C U T I V E  O R D E R No. 11.1

Declaring a Disaster Emergency in the State of New York

WHEREAS, the COVID-19 global pandemic has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization since early 2020;

WHEREAS, the United States Health and Human Services Secretary declared a public health emergency for the entire United States to aid the nation’s healthcare community in responding to COVID-19 on January 31, 2020;

WHEREAS, New York is now experiencing COVID-19 transmission at rates the State has not seen since April 2021;           

WHEREAS, the rate of new COVID-19 hospital admissions has been increasing over the past month to over 300 new admissions a day;

WHEREAS, the state must pursue a coordinated approach to ensure hospital capacity statewide is able to meet regional needs;

WHEREAS, the State government must support the municipalities and counties in their efforts to facilitate and administer vaccinations and tests for COVID-19, and to prevent the virus from continuing to spread at such rates;

WHEREAS, a new SarCoV2 variant, known as Omicron, has been identified and named a variant of concern by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;

WHEREAS, this variant has been identified in all 50 U.S. states, including New York, and more than 104 countries;

WHEREAS, this Omicron variant has been shown to be highly transmissible and may cause exponential spread;

WHEREAS, current vaccinations do not appear to be as effective against Omicron infection, while remaining stronger against severe disease;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution of the State of New York and Section 28 of Article 2-B of the Executive Law, do hereby continue the terms, conditions, and suspensions contained in Executive Order 11 until January 25, 2022.

IN ADDITION, by virtue of the authority vested in me by Section 29-a of Article 2-B of the Executive Law to temporarily suspend or modify any statute, local law, ordinance, order, rule, or regulation, or parts thereof, of any agency during a State disaster emergency, if compliance with such statute, local law, ordinance, order, rule, or regulation would prevent, hinder, or delay action necessary to cope with the disaster emergency or if necessary to assist or aid in coping with such disaster, I hereby temporarily suspend or modify, for the period from the date of this Executive Order through January 25, 2022 the following:

• Title V of Article 5 of the Public Health Law and subparts 19 and 58 of Title 10 of the NYCRR, to the extent necessary to allow laboratories holding a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Acts (CLIA) certificate and meeting the CLIA quality standards described in 42 CFR Subparts H, J, K and M, to perform testing for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in specimens collected from individuals in New York State;
• Subdivisions 7, 7-a and 8 of section 459-c of the Real Property Tax Law, and subdivisions 5, 5-a, 5-b, 5-c and 6 of section 467 of the Real Property Tax Law, to the extent necessary to permit the governing body of an assessing unit to adopt a resolution directing the assessor to grant exemptions pursuant to such section on the 2022  assessment roll to all property owners who received that exemption on the 2021 assessment roll, thereby dispensing with the need for renewal applications from such persons, and further dispensing with the requirement for assessors to mail renewal applications to such persons.  Provided however, that the governing body may, at its option, include in such resolution procedures by which the assessor may require a renewal application to be filed when he or she has reason to believe that an owner who qualified for the exemption on the 2021 assessment roll may have since changed his or her primary residence, added another owner to the deed, transferred the property to a new owner, or died;
• Article 7 of the Public Officers Law to the extent necessary to authorize the New York State Senate and Assembly, at their discretion, to meet and take such action authorized by law remotely by conference call or similar service and otherwise act in conformance with the provisions of Part E of Chapter 417 of the Laws of 2021, and expiring upon the expiration of such Chapter.

G I V E N   under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State in the City of Albany this twenty-sixth day of December in the year two thousand twenty-one

BY THE GOVERNOR          

Secretary to the Governor

Governor Hochul Signs Executive Order to Support Vulnerable Homeowners Amid Winter Surge

 

Allows Local Governments to Suspend In-Person Renewal Requirement to Extend Property Tax Exemptions for Low Income Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities 

Executive Order Also Permits Labs to Use Out-Of-State Facilities For COVID-19 Testing of New York Specimens to Increase Testing Capacity and Reduce Delays

Provides Legislature with Discretion to Meet Remotely Under Open Meetings Law, Expiring January 15th

 Governor Hochul today signed an Executive Order to help support vulnerable homeowners amid the current surge of COVID-19 cases. The Executive Order allows local governments to lift an in-person renewal requirement for property tax exemptions for low-income senior citizens and persons with disabilities. 

“As we battle this winter surge, we are using every tool to protect our most vulnerable neighbors,” Governor Hochul said. “The thousands of low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities who rely on property tax exemptions should not have to risk their health and safety to remain in their homes. With this Order, I am allowing local governments to take common sense action to protect seniors from COVID-19, provide tax relief to those who need it most, and prevent vulnerable New Yorkers from losing their homes this winter.”

The Governor’s Executive Order includes two additional actions to support public health as New York State combats the Omicron variant and wave of cases. Amid an increased demand for testing, Governor Hochul’s Order will permit certified clinical laboratories to use out-of-state facilities for New Yorkers’ COVID-19 testing to mitigate testing capacity issues.

In addition, the Order grants the New York State Senate and Assembly through January 15th the discretion to meet remotely, consistent with legislation passed in September that currently applies to other public bodies. The law allows public bodies to meet remotely but requires the contents of the meetings to be publicly available.

Under the Governor's Executive Order, local governments can automatically renew 2022 benefits for all property owners who received the benefit in 2021 unless the locality has reason to believe an individual has changed their primary address, added another owner to the deed, transferred the property to a new owner, or passed away.

DEC ANNOUNCES PROPOSED CHANGES TO SUPERFUND AND BROWNFIELD SITE CLEANUP REGULATIONS

 

Proposed Changes to Enhance Regulation of Emerging Contaminants PFOA and PFOS and Strengthen Programs to Clean Up Sites across the State

 New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced proposed changes to the State’s regulations for the clean-up of contaminated sites that will advance efforts to revitalize communities and protect public health and the environment statewide. The proposals are available for public comment until April 21, 2022, and would create new cleanup standards for the oversight of the emerging contaminants perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanoic sulfonate (PFOS), strengthen the implementation of the State’s successful Brownfield Cleanup Program, and enhance State Superfund and other cleanup programs.

“New York is a national leader in our commitment to address the threat of emerging contaminants and our sustained efforts to clean up legacy contaminants in communities statewide,” Commissioner Seggos said. “The proposed changes to New York’s regulations are instrumental in advancing DEC’s efforts with the latest science and data about public health and the environment while supporting the revitalization of former industrial sites to create economic opportunities and stronger communities.”

The proposed changes to the 6 NYCRR Part 375 regulations that pertain to the State’s Environmental Remediation Programs would increase consistency across programs administered by DEC’s Division of Environmental Remediation and provide DEC with the tools to effectively implement these changes, including:

• Enhanced requirements for the Inactive Hazardous Waste Disposal Site Remedial Program (State Superfund Program);
• Updates to the State’s Soil Cleanup Objectives (SCOs) to reflect the latest scientific input of experts at DEC and the New York State Department of Health. Revisions include the creation of SCOs for PFOA, PFOS, aniline, and nitrobenzene to reflect the designation of these chemicals as hazardous substances and codify existing guidance in regulation to provide the State with a greater ability to conduct enforcement against polluters; and
• Proposed changes, clarifications, and modifications to the regulations based on DEC’s experience during the first decade of implementing the Brownfield Cleanup Program.

DEC encourages the public to participate in and submit comments during two virtual hearings on the revised rulemaking. The hearings will be held at 2 p.m. on April 5, 2022, and 5:30 p.m. on April 7, 2022. To participate in the hearings, visit https://www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/101908.html. Persons who wish to receive the instructions by mail or telephone should call DEC at (518) 402-9764 and leave a message for Jenn Dawson. Participants should provide their first and last name, address, and telephone number and reference the Part 375 public comment hearing.

The public is invited to submit written comments on the revised proposed regulations through April 21, 2022, at 8 p.m. Written comments can be submitted by email to derweb@dec.ny.gov, noting “Comments on Proposed Part 375” in the subject line of the email, or by mail to the NYS DEC - Division of Environmental Remediation, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-7012, attention: Jenn Dawson.

All documents and related information pertaining to the revised proposed rulemaking are available on DEC’s website at http://www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/101908.html. Members of the public without internet access are advised to contact NYS at the address above or call (518) 402-9764.

MAYOR DE BLASIO ANNOUNCES $10.9 MILLION ALLOCATION TO INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY AND UPGRADE THE OLD STONE HOUSE

 

Historic cultural and civic hub located in Washington Park will be upgraded as part of the Gowanus Neighborhood Plan

 Mayor Bill de Blasio joined Parks Brooklyn Commissioner Martin Maher and Councilmember Brad Lander to announce a $10.9 million investment in the Old Stone House (OSH) to increase accessibility and fund preservation efforts at the historic site in the heart of Washington Park. 

“The Old Stone House is more than a cultural and educational hub, it’s a symbol of Brooklyn, containing centuries of history,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “As a proud Brooklynite, it’s important to preserve our history and shared heritage. This funding will help restore this iconic site, increase accessibility, and ensure visitors can enjoy it for generations to come.”

“The Old Stone House is a culturally significant site rich with history, and thanks to Mayor de Blasio, a brighter future,” said Parks Commissioner Gabrielle Fialkoff. “Increasing accessibility through investment has been a hallmark of this administration and a necessary step to propel us forward. We hope this cultural institution will continue to enrich and serve the community.” 

“This funding will make the Old Stone House accessible to the entire community, enabling everyone to experience OSH’s 2^nd floor Great Room – a space for affordable events, the arts and history-based education programs,” said Old Stone House Executive Director Kimberly Maier.

The funding is part of the larger Gowanus Neighborhood Plan. The multi-faceted plan includes increased community engagement, affordable housing opportunities, small business support, improvements to community facilities such as the Old Stone House and the Pacific Branch Library, and more.

Enhancements to the Old Stone house will include a newly constructed elevator, a new staircase, and the addition of public restrooms within an extension on the north side of the building – a reflection of historic reconstruction’s 1930’s layout. Design will officially begin in 2023, with a construction start date in 2026. 

The Old Stone House is one of 23 historic sites included in the Historic House Trust of New York City’s collection. Originally built by Claes Vechte in 1699, this reconstructed house, with its solid stone walls and high brick gables, is a landmark in American military and sports history, built on land taken from the Lenape in the mid-17^th century. Today, reconstructed from original stones near the original site, the Old Stone House serves as an interpretive and educational center dedicated to Brooklyn history, as well as a cultural resource for the community.

Governor Hochul Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress Combating COVID-19 - DECEMBER 26, 2021

 

29,046 Vaccine Doses Administered Over Last 24 Hours         

60 COVID-19 Deaths Statewide on Dec. 24  

 Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress combating COVID-19.     

“As we come home from holiday gatherings, it is as important as ever to take precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19 this season,” Governor Hochul said. “Wear your mask, wash your hands, and if you haven’t yet, get vaccinated and boosted. The vaccine is the best tool we have to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe as we head into the new year. Take advantage of having it readily available and get yours today.”

Today's data is summarized briefly below:   

* Numbers with an asterisk were last updated as of Dec. 24 as the HERDS system was down in observance of the holiday. 

** Vaccination numbers compiled by the CDC as of Dec. 24.

*** Due to the Holiday, today's report has data from Dec. 24 and Dec. 25, where available.

• Test Results Reported – Dec. 24: 400,030/Dec. 25: 257,325***
• Total Positive – Dec. 24: 49,708/Dec. 25: 36,454***
• Percent Positive – 14.17%
• 7-Day Average Percent Positive – 11.70% 
• Patient Hospitalization – 4,891*
• Patients Newly Admitted – 839*
• Patients in ICU – 880 (-4)*
• Patients in ICU with Intubation – 501 (+6)*
• Total Discharges – 226,474 (+676)*
• New deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS – 60*
• Total deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS – 47,929*
  
  The Health Electronic Response Data System is a NYS DOH data source that collects confirmed daily death data as reported by hospitals, nursing homes and adult care facilities only.   
• Total deaths reported to and compiled by the CDC – 60,751
  
  This daily COVID-19 provisional death certificate data reported by NYS DOH and NYC to the CDC includes those who died in any location, including hospitals, nursing homes, adult care facilities, at home, in hospice and other settings. 
• Total vaccine doses administered – 33,105,549
• Total vaccine doses administered over past 24 hours – 29,046
• Total vaccine doses administered over past 7 days – 732,953
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose – 88.6%
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series – 80.3%
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) – 95.0%**
• Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series (CDC) – 82.6%**
• Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose – 77.4% 
• Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series – 69.4% 
• Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) – 82.9%**
• Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series (CDC) – 71.3**

Street Co-Naming for Miguel A. Melenciano

Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez was joined by neighbors, friends, and family members for a street co-naming ceremony to honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Miguel A. Melenciano. Melenciano was a Journalist and community leader, who dedicated his life to lifting the lives of Dominicans in the Diaspora.

Melenciano was born on July 5, 1964 in the city of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and from an early age, Melenciano displayed a restless, proactive, and friendly attitude towards those with whom he interacted. He enjoyed a childhood full of love and community values, which allowed him to connect well with others and to succesfully navigate any political or social environment.

 

He graduated with a Doctor of Law degree from the prestigious Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo (UASD) in 1984, where he joined movements in defense of students’ rights. Upon graduation, he installed a law office in his hometown and offered legal services to those in need in his community, often free of charge.

 

In 1999, he immigrated to New York City where he opened the first Central Electoral Board (JCE) overseas office, where he served, among other roles, as inspector and supervisor of Dominican electoral processes conducted in several U.S. states. He excelled as a JCE official during the 2004, 2008, 2010 and 2016 Dominican elections and was later transferred to the headquarters of that body in New Jersey, where he was appointed to supervise all U.S. states, and Canada.

 

Miguel Melenciano had many interests and a true passion for journalism and communication, managing to write in different relevant media in the Dominican Republic and in New York and later founding and directing the newspaper El Nacional USA. He took his first steps in media communication with the program "Enlace," which he produced and co-led alongside Elías Barreras Corporán and Miguel Cruz Tejada, on a radio station and on channel 35 of Time Warner Cable. Working together, they pioneered one of the first community FM radio stations to broadcast from CULTURARTE on Audubon Avenue in Upper Manhattan.

 

Due to his charisma and commitment to objectivity, Melenciano achieved a true connection with viewers through his many programs, including the “Carlito de la Vega” show, “Opción New York” and “Registro Semanal.” Melenciano also collaborated with several national media including El Nuevo Diario and was one of the first publishers on the European platform Globedia. 

 

Due to his great sense of humor and “don de gente,” Melenciano was respected and loved by an entire community to which he gave himself entirely and supported unconditionally. On October 28, 2019, Miguel A. Melenciano lost his battle to cancer at the Presbyterian hospital in New York City. His partner Iglis Aquino continues his legacy of love by creating the Miguel A. Melenciano Aquino (M.A.M.A) foundation; an endeavor that Melenciano started during the course of his illness to educate others about cancer and help those patients most in need.

Councilman Ydanis Rodriguez was joined by Congressman Adriano Espaillat to stand with family and friends of Miguel A. Melenciano.

The sign at the corner of Broadway and West 213th Street is covered as Councilman and soon to be New York City Commissioner of Transportation Ydanis Rodriguez speaks about the man for whom the street corner will be co-named.

Congressman Espaillat added some words to the community gathered. 

The cover comes off of Miguel A. Melenciano Way at Broadway and West 213th Street.

7 Day and Counting

 

Let me get ready for my last Monday Media Availability, because it should be a real fun one. Do I blame Kathy for the Omicron surge. She is calling every new case of COVID, Omicron, just like Andrew called every death a COVID death. I have to position myself right so I can use this against her when I run for governor.

It's good that the schools are closed for the rest of my time as your mayor, be it only one week to go until Mayor Adams takes over, and this is his problem to deal with Kathy. No matter what Mayor Adams does he will be blamed, just as Mayor Lindsay was blamed when he became mayor during a snow storm, and the sanitation workers went on strike so there was no snow removal on the city streets. Those were the good old days when it snowed big by New Years day, and there was no talk of Global Warming.