East End Coronavirus (COVID-19) Announcements & Updates
As Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread on the East End and around the country, Hamptons and North Fork businesses and organizations are making difficult decisions in order to keep patrons and supporters safe. The response has been swift throughout this week, with companies, cultural institutions and groups adapting to the news and cancelling or postponing events, and even closing their doors entirely to help cease the spread of this disease.
Messages and announcements continue to come in as the situation evolves, so, in addition to our cancellation lists for the Hamptons and North Fork, we’ve also compiled these emails as an informative record of this unprecedented and difficult time.
Things are not easy, but it’s important to stay positive and, most of all, safe. Wash your hands, don’t touch your face, avoid large gatherings of people and try not to panic. We’ll get through this.
Check back often for more updates.
4/10/20
Claudio’s: Helping & Hopeful
To Our Claudio’s Family,
We hope all of you, your family and friends are safe and healthy. The last month has produced some unprecedented challenges locally, nationally, and globally for us all. During this period and for the foreseeable future the Claudio’s team remains cautiously hopeful – taking steps to support our community and prepare a
safe place for our patrons in our 150th season.
As we look to the summer, we are keeping a close eye on local, state, and federal updates to stay in-line with the changing directives to ensure we do our part around safety and security. We will keep you updated on our plans and encourage you to follow us on social to learn not only about us but about ways you can help support the community and local businesses.
Committed to the art of hospitality and with the survival of our craft in mind, we encourage you to take steps to help ensure your favorite locals don’t despair too much during this time of uncertainty. Some suggestions are to buy a gift card to your favorite restaurant, to use when the situation normalizes. You can also patronize delivery and takeout offerings from restaurants that have remained open. Another is to donate to organizations like CAST here in Greenport, as well as City Harvest and Share Our Strength, who are working hard to feed those in New York for whom lost jobs and school closures have created an urgent need for feeding.
We look to the future with hope and are here to offer help and guidance to our neighboring families and friends. We thank you for your continued support. Please see the Greenport Village website for more local info.
Stay well, and we hope to see you all soon.
– Claudio’s Management Team
4/10/20
Madoo Conservancy Food for Thought: A time to help others
As a not-for-profit, we know how hard fundraising can be at any time of the year much less during a worldwide pandemic. At the moment organizations who are helping the needy and the first responders really need our assistance. Madoo member Shira Kalish passed on the list below for local food relief programs, that need help with direct links on how to donate.
Just this week Madoo board member Charlotte Moss and her husband Barry Friedberg donated $100,000 to Feeding America, the result of a fun collage contest that Charlotte created on Instagram. Through purchasing power and smart allocation of resources that translates to one million meals for needy Americans. Bravo Charlotte and Barry!
Thank you and stay safe.
Childrens Museum (CMEE)/Bridgehampton Food Pantry Food Bank
https://cmee.secure.force.com/donate/?dfId=a0n1K00000pF2L6QAK
Thankful Thursdays-Food Deliveries to Medical Workers/First Responders
https://www.gofundme.com/f/kiera-cares
Meal Train to SH Hospital Staff along with SH Hospital Healthcare Heroes Fund
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-southampton-hospital-employees
Local Restaurant Meal Deliveries to Needy in BH, Sag Harbor & SH
https://www.hamptonsartcamp.org
Meals to SH Hospital Staff
https://www.gofundme.com/f/helping-south-hampton-hospital-workers
East Hampton Food Pantry
https://easthamptonfoodpantry.org/donate/
Heart of the Hamptons Southampton Food Pantry
https://heartofthehamptons.org/food-pantry/
4/8/20
Moustache Brewing Company: We’re closed. Not forever, just for now
This week we made the very difficult decision to close the brewery temporarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
We have been struggling every single day for the past weeks walking a very fine line between keeping the brewery open in order to survive, and the health and safety of us and our community.
We have had many many sleepless nights wondering how we will make it through this situation, questioning everything, being beyond cautious to not become sick, following the news, keeping on top of all the updates, crying non stop because this is such an incredibly scary time on so many levels that we just cannot fully process what is going on.
This is not forever this is just until we can ride this storm out and we can all be at a safer point.
We need to remember that we are all in this together. There is no away around this, except through this. We are all going to get through this and we will all come out better from it.
As you know, the current climate puts small businesses, including ours, in serious risk of shutting their doors permanently due to the crisis and mandated closures.
Many of you have reached out and asked how you can support us.
In an effort to continue to keep our production up and running, our team employed, and our doors open we are offering beer bonds. These bonds will help us by bringing in much needed revenue, allowing us to maintain our production, and keep our team employed, while allowing our community to show their love and support during this difficult time.
Our Beer Bonds work like the savings bond you got as a kid except more exciting, where you can purchase a bond to be redeemed for higher value at a future date. Bonds can be purchased now for either $25 or $50 to be redeemed at a later date for beer in our tasting room.
Our bonds will mature on the following schedule respectively:
July 1-31, 2022 | $30/$60
August 1-31, 2020 | $35/$75
September 1-30, 2020 | $40/$80
Bonds are redeemable only for beer in the tasting room or to-go. Value is honored at the time of first redemption date and will not mature thereafter. After October 1, 2020, original purchase price value ($25 or $50) will be honored and will not expire. Bonds will be mailed to you and are required for redemption.
4/8/20
An Overwhelming Response from the Stony Brook Community
The donation program for Stony Brook University Hospital began on March 20 and it hasn’t slowed down since—thanks to the outpouring of generosity from the Long Island community in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joan Dickinson, Director of Stony Brook University Community Relations; Colby Rowe, Stony Brook Medicine Trauma Center Educator and EMS Outreach Coordinator; and Scott LaMarsh, Building Manager for the Charles B. Wang Center, are leading the donation response teams that are speaking with donors, scheduling donations and shipments, receiving and cataloging the materials, and distributing the items. Scheduled donations continue throughout April.
For the period March 20 through April 4, the donation response teams have:
Answered/Managed
2,200 emails
415 donor calls by phone
140 scheduled appointments for donation drop off
50 shipments of materials
275 video messages
Received
201,959 pieces of PPE
4,793 comfort care items
232 iPads
65 food deliveries
Collected
Financial contributions — donate to Coronavirus Crisis Challenge
PPE donations, including N95 3M 1860 masks and other masks, protective eyewear, goggles, gloves, face shields including 3D-printed frames
iPad donations
Equipment including ventilators
Comfort care items for staff such as food through the SBUH Meal Train, water and beverages; hand lotion, dry shampoo, tissue packs, antibacterial wipes, Chapstick; liquid hand soap (pump jars/bottles preferred), hand sanitizer, Lysol and Clorox wipes; snacks, gum, candy, cough drops; stress balls, fidget spinners, aromatherapy masks; video messages of support.
Comfort care items for patients such as puzzles, coloring pages and pencils; blank books and pens; socks, earplugs, sleep masks; notebooks, pens, pencils, sharpeners.
All N95 masks approved by Stony Brook Medicine have been immediately distributed to the healthcare professionals at Stony Brook University Hospital along with other approved PPE.N95 masks and other PPE are being distributed to our partners at Stony Brook Southampton and Eastern Long Island Hospital to fulfill their requests.
In addition to the overwhelming response from the community, others have been answering the call on campus. The iCreate Lab has assembled hundreds of 3D-printed face shields—1,600 have been delivered to the Hospital to date—and the Department of Chemistry has produced nearly 100 gallons of hand sanitizer for campus use.
“It’s been great to see the community come together. These donations are more than a great support for the hospital; they empower donors to be part of the solution,” said Joan Dickinson, Stony Brook University Community Relations Director.
To maintain social distancing and safety, appointments are being scheduled for donation drop off. Please contact: Joan Dickinson at COVID19donations@stonybrook.edu or call 631-219-0603 to schedule an appointment.
4/7/20
Jazz for Jennings 2020 – Letter from Kayce Jennings
Dear Friends of The Center,
In these unsettling times, imagine what it is to be amongst the most vulnerable. And then … imagine how we can help.
The Bridgehampton Child Care & Recreational Center is already doing just that, supporting the families in our community who already live paycheck-to-paycheck and, in too many cases, have already lost their jobs. The Center has mobilized its food pantry, staffers are shopping for those who are unable to do it themselves, and the after-school program has launched a new online program. Bonnie Cannon and her team are closely monitoring the unfolding situation, assessing needs as they arise, and finding solutions for everyone they serve: the children, the teens, the college students, and the seniors.
Jazz for Jennings 2020 is scheduled for Sunday, June 28th. And, yes, we are optimistic that we will be there, that Evan Sherman and his band will be on stage, and that you will be there to support us. We are looking forward to sunnier days and another memorable afternoon of food, wine and world-class jazz at the spectacular Watermill Center. Now, more than ever, we need each other, and we need to celebrate our community and the important work of The Center.
Jazz for Jennings is The Center’s primary fundraising event and, very simply, The Center cannot do its work without the funding that the event generates. So please support J4J. Please join join my family as a lead sponsor, buy a premium table, a patron table, or tickets. The Center needs us and we need The Center.
Stay safe and stay healthy and see you on June 28th.
—
Kayce Freed Jennings
RESERVE YOUR SEATS OR DONATE AT bhccrc.org.
4/5/20
President Trump Announces 200,000 n95 Masks to be Delivered to Suffolk County Tomorrow at Request of Rep. Zeldin Following Delivery Today of 150,000 Surgical Masks
This evening, President Trump announced that the White House is sending 200,000 n95 masks to Suffolk County at the request of Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), which are expected to be delivered tomorrow at no cost to Suffolk County.
Last night, Congressman Zeldin had been informed by county officials that Suffolk County’s stockpile of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was out of surgical masks, regular sized n95 masks, gowns, face shields and body bags. Congressman Zeldin, member of the bipartisan Congressman Coronavirus Task Force, pleaded for urgent assistance from across America with securing desperately needed PPE for Suffolk County.
In addition to locking in place late last night an offer for 150,000 surgical masks that were delivered earlier today, Rep. Zeldin quickly received multiple direct offers to help, including one within minutes of his plea from Senior Advisor to the President Jared Kushner. Mr. Kushner informed Congressman Zeldin he was interested in helping Suffolk County secure all PPE needs for the next 30 days. Working with Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and his office, Rep. Zeldin sent details of all needed PPE directly to Mr. Kushner last night, and also communicated the details of Suffolk County’s situation directly to White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows.
“We must do everything in our power to ensure our medical professionals, first responders, law enforcement and other essential workers are able to do their jobs while being able to protect their own health, and the health of others, including their precious family members, and I thank President Trump and Jared Kushner for stepping up to the plate for Suffolk County,” said Congressman Zeldin. “We are all in this fight together, and I am encouraged by the Administration’s swift, effective and immediate response to Suffolk County’s urgent need of PPE. I look forward to continuing to work with every level of government from Suffolk County Executive Bellone to the President to continue to deliver for Suffolk County.”
4/5/20
Passover – All You Need…
As Jewish people around the world prepare for Passover under the pale of coronavirus, we are faced with a host of new challenges and questions. How to prepare with minimal ingredients and limited access to communal resources? How to celebrate the Seder alone? How will we celebrate the Festival of Freedom with our movement restricted?
Find answers to all this and more on our complete Passover minisite. If you have any questions or if we can help you in any way before Passover, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We have a limited number of at-home-seder-kits, to order, click here. Wishing you and your family a liberating, healthy, and joyous Passover!
Sincerely,
Rabbi Leibel Baumgarten
P.S. We will be having a facebook live as well as a Zoom Model Seder and Pesach discussion on Tuesday, April 7, 2:00 pm Please join.
4/4/20
White House Responds to Zeldin’s Urgent Plea for PPE in Suffolk County, Kushner Wants to Help Secure All PPE Needs for Next Month
Last night, Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the bipartisan Congressman Coronavirus Task Force, pleaded for urgent assistance from across America with securing desperately needed Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Suffolk County. Earlier in the evening, Congressman Zeldin had been informed by county officials that Suffolk County’s stockpile of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) was out of surgical masks, n95 masks, gowns, face shields and body bags.
Rep. Zeldin quickly received multiple direct offers to help, including one within minutes from Senior Advisor to the President Jared Kushner. Mr. Kushner informed Congressman Zeldin he was interested in helping Suffolk County secure all PPE needs for the next 30 days. Working with Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone’s office, Rep. Zeldin sent details of all needed PPE directly to Mr. Kushner last night, and also communicated the details of Suffolk County’s situation directly to White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows.
Late last night, the first supplier’s offer to immediately deliver 150,000 surgical masks on Sunday, less than 24 hours later, was locked into place, and Congressman Zeldin has continued to connect county officials with additional offers for gowns and other needed PPE.
Congressman Zeldin also posted the following tweets here and here.
“Our brave local medical professionals, law enforcement officers, first responders and all others fighting coronavirus on the front lines urgently need masks, face shields, gowns and other protective equipment ASAP, and I thank the Administration for their quick response to my direct plea on behalf of my constituents,” said Congressman Zeldin. “As I have remained throughout this outbreak, I will stay directly in touch with every level of government, local hospitals and healthcare facilities, and others in need in elevating their specific requests to the highest levels of the Administration. When it comes to fighting the ongoing outbreak of coronavirus, we are one team and this is one fight. It’s the Administration’s goal to help Suffolk County secure all of the PPE needed in Suffolk County for at least the next month, and I look forward to continuing to work with them, other levels of government and additional parties to meet this goal.”
4/3/20
NYS Coronavirus Update: Javits Center Treating COVID Patients — Healthcare Enrollment Extended — 2021 Budget Enacted
Tens of thousands of selfless healthcare workers have answered our urgent call to join New York’s active healthcare force, including 21,000 people who live out of state. It’s inspiring, and I personally promise that when the time comes, New York will repay the favor. We will never forget how the people of our country came to the aid of New York when we needed it, and we deeply appreciate it.
Are you a qualified healthcare professional? Enlist here.
My brother Chris joined my daily press briefing today virtually from his basement. He tested positive for Coronavirus and I’m wishing him a speedy recovery.
Here’s what else you need to know tonight:
1. The temporary hospital facility at the Javits Center will now treat COVID-19 patients. The growing number of Coronavirus cases are threatening the capacity of our hospital system. The original plan for the Javits Center was to use it for non-COVID patients in order to free up beds at other hospitals. However, the number of COVID patients has increased to the point that it is prudent for Javits to support and care for COVID patients. I asked President Trump this morning to consider this request and stressed the urgent need and he agreed to it.
2. Today we enacted the 2021 Budget. Now more than ever, the government needs to deliver results for the people. The 2021 Budget includes a comprehensive Paid Sick Leave law, a cap on insulin co-pays, a first-in-the-nation domestic terrorism law and much more. I thank and congratulate my partners in the Legislature, especially Speaker Heastie and Leader Stewart-Cousins, for working with us to get this budget done in these extraordinary times.
3. The special enrollment period to get a healthcare plan on the state’s health exchange is extended to May 15. Uninsured New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health or directly to insurers. If you lost employer coverage, you must apply within 60 days of losing that coverage. Because of a loss of income, New Yorkers may also be eligible for Medicaid, the Essential Plan, subsidized Qualified Health Plans or Child Health Plus.
4. The State is doing everything we can to make sure we have enough ventilators to meet our needs. The Department of Health has approved a new protocol from Northwell Health allowing BiPAP machines (a kind of breathing aid machine) to be converted into ventilators. The State has purchased 3,000 BiPAP machines from Philips in Pittsburgh, and 750 machines are already in stock and will be distributed to hospitals. This is just one of the extraordinary measures we are taking to secure these life-saving devices.
5. Have questions about how COVID-19 affects housing? The State’s Homes and Community Renewal Agency has set up a Frequently Asked Questions page with information about housing issues for tenants, landlords and homeowners.
Tonight’s “Deep Breath Moment”: Apple has donated 1.9 million masks to New York State — with more on the way. New York is deeply grateful to Apple for this gift of critically needed PPE supplies.
If you were forwarded this email, you can subscribe to New York State’s Coronavirus Updates here.
Ever Upward,
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
4/3/20
ASSEMBLYMAN THIELE: NEW YORK STATE PAUSE ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE TASK FORCE
Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I, D, WF – Sag Harbor) today announced that Governor Cuomo has created the New York State on PAUSE Enforcement Assistance Task Force, to assist local authorities with enforcement of recent executive orders issued as a result of COVID-19. The New York State PAUSE Enforcement Assistance Task Force allows individuals to file complaints regarding the operation of non-essential businesses or gatherings 24/7 by calling 1-833-789-0470, or through an online form found here.
The complaints filed through the task force are reviewed for completeness, accuracy, and applicability under the orders, and then referred to local authorities (as designated by the county leadership) by a team of investigators from multiple state agencies. In addition to assessing the credibility of complaints, these skilled investigators can assist local authorities in their front-line role of responding to alleged violations of the orders by providing guidance on available civil and criminal enforcement tools. (Note: Specific complaints from employees against their employers should be directed to the Department of Labor through their online form.)
For questions on the coronavirus, please call the New York State Department of Health Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Hotline at 1-888-364-3065. You can also visit their website for prevention tips and up-to-date information at: coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home.
Individuals interested in receiving e-mail updates on COVID-19 can sign up here: now.ny.gov/page/s/coronavirus-updates.
4/3/20
NYS Coronavirus Update: Coronavirus Tracker — New Capital Region Mobile Testing Center — Domestic Violence Hotline
We are facing a hard and urgent truth in New York State right now. We need more ventilators, supplies and healthcare staff to get us through the “apex” of this pandemic. And we can’t get the supplies we need alone. No state can. That’s why I am calling for a national rolling deployment of resources to the areas of greatest need at the time it’s needed.
States will reach their individual apex at different times. New York will be first. So we need to deploy resources from around the country to New York right now. Once we are past the worst of our apex, we will move resources to the next place in need and repeat this process as this virus rolls across the country. Mutual aid will save lives.
In normal times, the New England Patriots are New York’s rivals. But today, they acted as friends, delivering 300,000 much-needed masks to our frontline healthcare workers. We thank them.
1. The State launched a COVID-19 tracker to provide New York State’s comprehensive testing data to the public. The website, ny.gov/covid-19tracker, which will be updated daily with the latest data, presents visualizations of statewide and county-level testing and results.
2. There has been an uptick in reported domestic violence incidents. We want you to know: If you are in a dangerous domestic situation, New York State will help you find safe shelter. You are not trapped just because of Coronavirus. If there is an issue where you are in immediate harm, call 911. If you need help, call the State’s Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-942-6906.
3. A new COVID-19 drive-thru mobile testing center will open in Albany on Monday, April 6th. The mobile testing center will be located in a parking lot at the State University of New York at Albany campus at 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany. The site will prioritize tests for individuals who are among the highest risk population. Capital District residents who would like to be tested must make an appointment by calling 888-364-3065. There will be no walk-ins allowed and all patients must be in a vehicle.
4. I will issue an Executive Order allowing the State to redistribute ventilators and personal protective equipment to hospitals with the highest need. We are asking upstate hospitals to loan 20 percent of their unused ventilators to struggling downstate hospitals — and then we will ask downstate hospitals for similar help when the pandemic wave hits upstate New York. The equipment will either be returned to the hospital it came from or the hospital will be reimbursed for it.
Tonight’s “Deep Breath Moment”: Tomorrow, April 4th, you can join a global chalk painting event to spread joy around the community. Share your art on social media with #Chalk4Joy and be sure to practice proper social distancing when participating. More information is available on the event’s Facebook page.
If you were forwarded this email, you can subscribe to New York State’s Coronavirus Updates here.
Ever Upward,
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
4/3/20
Rep. Zeldin Update on Coronavirus
New York is the state hardest hit by the ongoing outbreak of coronavirus, and I’m working hard to ensure those across our communities have the resources they need.
One of the greatest challenges the continued outbreak of coronavirus poses is the strain it puts on our communities’ healthcare system and possible overwhelming of our local hospitals. That’s why it’s critical the Army Corps of Engineers is expanding patient capacity at Stony Brook University by building a new 1,000 bed temporary hospital.
I have also recommended to Albany that the state utilize John J. Foley Skilled Nursing Home, which is currently unused, and can accommodate up to 500 additional beds. As the next step, in order to make this a reality, New York needs to notify FEMA and the Army Corps of its desire to utilize this site.
In addition to more hospital beds, local hospitals need more ventilators, which is why I helped secure thousands of ventilators from the national stockpile for New York, and will continue to work hard to help secure even more.
Our communities’ health care workers, first responders and law enforcement need more PPE, masks, and other protective equipment, which is why $16 billion was just secured in the latest coronavirus relief bill for PPE kits, ventilators, and other medical supplies for federal and state response efforts. I’ll continue urging the Administration, FEMA and other federal agencies to help acquire every resource necessary.
I’m also working on the ground with hospitals all across our district, listening to what they need and relaying the concerns of Long Island nurses and health care workers. I’m helping hospital administrators learn which local suppliers have the resources they need and which local donors may be able to lend a helping hand.
There are now two drive-thru testing sites available in NY-1, one in Stony Brook and one in Riverhead. To request an appointment, please see the information below:
Stony Brook Drive-Thru Testing Site
Stony Brook University, South P Lot off Stony Brook Road
Open Daily 7am – 7pm
1-888-364-3065
Riverhead Drive-Thru Testing Site
1149 Old Country Road, Riverhead
Open Daily 8 am – 5 pm
516-874-0411
Every level of government and every Long Islander has a responsibility to do everything we can to combat coronavirus and help our neighbors on the front lines of this battle.
If you are a small business looking for federal assistance, learn more here.
If you are a local healthcare worker concerned about working or safety conditions, let me know here.
It’s an honor to represent you in the House of Representatives. To stay updated on the latest regarding the coronavirus outbreak, LIKE my Facebook page or visit zeldin.house.gov/coronavirus.
Best Regards,
Lee Zeldin, Member of Congress
4/3/20
Stony Brook Medicine Positive Messages Project
Communities across Long Island are reaching out to lend their support for frontline staff at Stony Brook working to combat the coronavirus pandemic. Just this week a total of 140 positive messages ranging from drawings, pictures and sayings have been hung up throughout Stony Brook University Hospital. You can find them in the windows of the main lobby Starbucks, outside the Patient Advocacy office, in elevators or even in bathrooms.
If you would like to send a positive message, please email COVID19donations@stonybrook.edu.
4/3/20
ASSEMBLYMAN THIELE: SOUTH FORK COMMUTER CONNECTION FUNDING APPROVED IN FINAL STATE BUDGET
New York State Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I, D, WF-Sag Harbor) today announced that the 2020-21 enacted State Budget contains an additional $500,000 for bus shuttle service in connection with the establishment of the South Fork Commuter Connection, which will be used to provide commuter bus service between the Speonk and Montauk stations on the Montauk branch of the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). Thiele has lobbied the LIRR for the expansion of service for commuters to the South Fork since he was Southampton Town Supervisor.
In 2018, the LIRR agreed to provide four new trains to institute the service, which launched in March of 2019, and includes two eastbound trains on the South Fork during the morning rush and two returning westbound trains during the afternoon rush period. Shuttle bus service or “last mile” transportation to employment destinations in the morning, and back to the train station in the afternoon, are included as part of the service to facilitate the commute. The train service now serves as a commuting alternative to the oppressive and increasing traffic congestion on County Road 39 and Montauk Highway. These state funds will enable the Towns of East Hampton and Southampton to continue to provide commuters with bus shuttle service from the LIRR stations to their jobs in the morning and return service from work back to the train stations at the end of the day.
To date, SFCC ridership has been impressive. For the first six months of service, from March to August of 2019, LIRR ridership on the South Fork increased 126% over the same period last year before the institution of the SFCC. (14,725 in 2018 compared to 33,208 in 2019). According to the LIRR, 72% of this was directly attributable to the weekday trains. Further, in 2018, before the start of the SFCC, ridership for the LIRR on the South Fork from September to November was 2,742. In 2019, with the addition of the SFCC, ridership has spiked to a total of 10,030, or a 266% increase. The percentage increase continues to grow because of the SFCC.
Thiele stated, “Since its maiden voyage on March 4, 2019, the South Fork Commuter Connection has offered the first major improvement in public transit on the East End in decades, and the benefits have been substantial. The final approval of these state funds will allow the SFCC to continue to reduce traffic congestion to the South Fork, including the adverse impacts from automobile congestion on the environment. The service will also continue to make it easier for South Fork businesses to recruit and retain employees by providing an alternative, faster, and less stressful commute to the South Fork.”
SFCC service has been temporarily suspended as a result of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), but will continue to serve the East End once normal operations are restored.
4/3/20
SUFFOLK COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM CLOSURE & COVID-19 UPDATE
Historical Quotes Through Hard Times: “Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today.” – Thich Nhat Hanh
The Suffolk County Historical Society Museum will remain closed as per the order issued by NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are also suspending all upcoming events at this time, and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
The health and safety of our visitors, members, and staff remain the Suffolk County Historical Society’s priority. Every day brings new developments related to the virus, and we understand that uncertainty can be unsettling. Our thoughts are with the entire Suffolk County and Long Island communities and with all who have been impacted by COVID-19.
During our closure, we invite the Long Island community to visit our website for updates and special offerings, including a free subscription to our historic Photo of the Week series and our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube content: www.SuffolkCountyHistoricalSociety.org
From all of us at the Suffolk County Historical Society Museum, thank you for your continued support through these uncertain times. Stay tuned, and stay safe!
4/3/20
Southampton Union Free School District Bedtime stories
To connect with students and families while schools are closed due to COVID-19, Southampton Elementary School kicked off a bedtime stories video initiative. The videos are posted on the district’s Facebook page and feature teachers and students reading a variety of children’s books from their homes.
4/3/20
Recognizing the Hampton Bays Robotics Team
The Hampton Bays School District would like to acknowledge the four members of the high school robotics team Hampton Bays Baybots, FRC, who were scheduled to compete in the FIRST Robotics competition on March 27 and 28. The competition was canceled due to COVID-19.
Prior to the closure of schools, team members Holly Anderson, Rob Casablanca, David Loomis Hall and Nick Zbikowski had spent countless hours perfecting their robot design and mechanisms.
4/3/20
Join East End Arts for a VIRTUAL SLUMBER PARTY Talent Show
Here’s your chance to showcase your talent in a virtual talent show with East End Arts and Inspire Dance Centre.
There are no registration fees, but space is limited-so register today!
Performance Date: April 17, 2020
Ages 8-11: 6:00 p.m. – 6:40 p.m.
Ages 12-16: 7:00 p.m. – 7:40 p.m.
All performances will be held via Zoom.
Winners of the talent show will be announced on April 20, 2020.
4/3/20
PARRISH ART MUSEUM LAUNCHES FREE LIVE-STREAM WORKSHOPS DIRECT FROM THE ARTIST’S STUDIO, FEATURING PARRISH TEACHING ARTISTS WEDNESDAY APRIL 8, 11AM
“Live from the Studio,” for participants at all levels and featuring a rotation of artist teachers, kicks off with painter Barbara Thomas
The Education Department of the Parrish Art Museum has created Live from the Studio, a new series of FREE live-streamed art workshops every Wednesday morning, featuring a rotating roster of Parrish teaching artists. The series kicks off Wednesday, April 8, from 11 –11:45am with painter Barbara Thomas, who will lead a Still Life Flower Painting class, inspired by selections from the Parrish collection and her own works. The class is open to all participants, adults and families, at any skill level.
“The artists who teach at the Parrish each have their own expertise and following. They have volunteered to share workshops from their studios to connect with students from home,” said Cara Conklin-Wingfield, Parrish Education Director. “We all need art right now and Barbara and the other artists are generously sharing their time to bring art to the Parrish community. They are helping to keep us connected through making art.”
Thomas, established in the community as an accomplished artist and teacher, has led her popular Landscape Painting and Painting en Plein Air workshops at the Parrish for decades. In those classes, students studied proportions and composition, and learned to use materials to create clouds, grass, trees, and all their colors, light, and shadows. In her Still Life Flower Painting class, Thomas covers many of those same techniques.
During the class, participants are invited to follow along with her instruction, while interacting through a live Q& A. The only materials needed are pencils, paints, brushes, or any other drawing supplies participants may have in their homes. In preparation for the class, Thomas recommends setting up a vase next to the computer, holding a simple, medium-size arrangement such as a bouquet of flowers, collection of budding branches, or other natural material. A simple background is recommended so that that focus is on the still life. (Visit parrishart.org for more information or to register.)
Live from the Studio continues in the following weeks with Eric Dever on April 15, and Laurie Lambrecht on April 22. Future artists and topics will be announced. All classes will be recorded and available on parrishart.org for future viewing.
4/2/20
NORTH SHORE ANIMAL LEAGUE AMERICA CONDUCTING ADOPTIONS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Essential Staff Providing Care For Animals On Campus Amid Coronavirus (Covid19) Pandemic
North Shore Animal League America’s Adoption Center is currently conducting adoption by appointment only. Our Adoption Team is contacting pre-approved adopters with a scheduled day and time to complete their adoption.
The health and well-being of NSALA staff, volunteers, adopters, and the community remains our priority at this time.
We currently have over 40 dogs of various ages and sizes on campus, as well as more than 100 felines, from kittens to older cats, all looking for loving homes. As always, the animals on the NSALA Port Washington campus are being well-cared for by our devoted staff.
In addition to finding homes for more than 110 canines, some of whom were from our recent Mill Dog rescue (we saved 100 dogs and puppies from deplorable conditions with some going to our area shelter partners,) we have also placed more than 30 animals into foster homes.
During this time, the Alex Lewyt Veterinary Medical Center will remain open to see sick patients and emergency cases only.
While we are doing adoptions by appointment, NSALA’s Adoption Center is temporarily closed to the general public in accordance with New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo’s statewide directives and to control the number of people in the Adoption Center at any one time.
If you are interested in fostering an animal, please visit: animalleague.org/get-involved/foster-care-program
We will continue to keep the public informed on our status through our website, animalleague.org, and our social media platforms.
We thank the community for their ongoing understanding and support.
4/2/20
Habitat Suffolk donates fabric to make masks for front-line healthcare workers
As the supply for personal protective equipment continues to be uncertain in our region, Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk is actively taking steps to help the medical community. Suffolk ReStore, Habitat’s sales center which carries a selection of gently used building supplies and home furnishings, donated approximately 40 yards of fabric to be used to make homemade cloth masks for healthcare workers and staff. The fabric was previously donated to ReStore by Maharam, a textile company in Yaphank. In partnership with the organization “Suffolk County Creators of COVID-19 Medical Supplies,” the fabric will be distributed to their more than 600 volunteers across the island to sew masks and head wraps for medical personnel.
4/1/20
Assemblyman Thiele: ESD Approves Funding to Support COVID-19 Business Counseling Services
Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I, D, WF – Sag Harbor) today echoed the Governor’s announcement that the New York State Empire State Development Board of Directors has approved $7.5 million in COVID-19 Business Counseling funding to support 70 non-profit partners across New York State. The funding will enable these organizations to provide small businesses with necessary guidance to secure disaster assistance, such as Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loans, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Up to 24 Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers and up to 23 Small Business Development Centers will receive $5 million, with an additional $2.5 million awarded to up to 23 Community Development Financial Institutions.
For local assistance, small businesses can contact the Stony Brook Small Business Development Center. The SBDC at Stony Brook maintains services both at the Stony Brook University Main Campus and at the Southampton Campus (part-time). The SBDC at Stony Brook can be reached at (631) 632-9837 or by e-mail at: SBDC@Stonybrook.edu.
For questions on the coronavirus, please call the New York State Department of Health Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Hotline at 1-888-364-3065. You can also visit their website for prevention tips and up-to-date information at: coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home. Individuals interested in receiving e-mail updates on COVID-19 can sign up here: now.ny.gov/page/s/coronavirus-updates
4/1/20
Stony Brook Medicine COVID-19 Briefing Update: Clinical Trials Launching at Stony Brook Medicine
A number of clinical trials have been, or soon will be launched, designed to identify effective therapies for our most critically ill patients.
— A nucleotide analogue that blocks viral reverse transcriptases, Remdesivir, developed to treat two other RNA viruses, Ebola and Marburg, has been tested and appears to be effective in treating COVID-19 in China and in Washington State. Led by Principal Investigator, Dr. Sharon Nachman, chief of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, Stony Brook Medicine has administered Remdesivir to two patients thus far with severe COVID-19. Now, the team is attempting to become part of the clinical trial run by the drug’s manufacturer, Gilead Sciences.
— Led by Principal Investigator Dr. Bettina Fries, chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases, Stony Brook Medicine and Co-Principal Investigator Dr. Luis Marcos, associate professor of clinical medicine, they have become part of a Regeneron-sponsored clinical trial for their drug Sarilumab (Kevzara), a monoclonal antibody which blocks binding of interleukin-6 to its receptor. Sarilumab is already FDA approved for the treatment of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and more recently for the cytokine storm that accompanies the use of CAR-T cells for acute leukemia. The first Regeneron patient was recruited on March 30.
— Led by Elliot Bennet-Guerrero, Medical Director for Perioperative Quality and Patient Safety for Stony Brook Medicine, and based on similar studies in China which showed promise, SBM anticipates launching a clinical trial of donated, post-convalescent plasma from COVID-19 patients very soon, based on the level of antibody titers to SARS-CoV2 in the donor plasma. Serum or plasma therapy for infectious diseases dates to the 1890s, when serum made from immunized animals provided the first effective treatment for Clostridium tetani and Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
— SBU professor Lily Mujica-Parodi has been part of a national effort to employ a wearable technology device (Oura) to collect sufficient physiological data, and use deep learning algorithms to predict the onset of SARS-CoV2 infection. This type of device would be most productive and predictive in hospitals like our own where there is a large number of healthcare workers in high-risk-for-infection roles (ICUs, EDs, etc.)
Stony Brook Physician Collaborates with LI Company on New Face Shield Production: Dr. Bettina Fries, Professor of Medicine, Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, and Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases has a neighbor who is an R&D specialist at a local manufacturing company. She approached him (Agjah Libohova) with the idea that perhaps the company where he works could make a prototype of the face shield that she uses. Agjah borrowed the face shield and developed a prototype that fits guidelines for use in a medical facility. He then worked with the CEO of the company (Clear-Vu Lighting) to develop the product. They are now working on a way to mass-produce the face shields for caregivers.
Manufacturing is beginning with an order of 20,000 new face shields that will be deployed to Stony Brook University Hospital. The prototype has been further developed for an easy fit and mass production, which is expected to start by early April. Clear-Vu Lighting is gearing up with an expectation to produce 40,000 faceshields per day and approximately 1.2 million per month. Production of face shields to Stony Brook will include supplies for Stony Brook University Hospital and all affiliated hospitals on Long Island. There will be a brief video developed that shows how to put the face shield on (details on when produced and where to place the content). Jon Longtin, a Professor in Engineering is playing a supporting role in guiding the company on some of the engineering aspects of the face shield production.
Preventing a Possible Shortage of Ventilators: Due to the projections of the COVID-19 pandemic, Stony Brook University Hospital is proactively preparing should a ventilator shortage and surge occur. In a Stony Brook Medicine research laboratory, medical professionals are working on a solution to ventilating multiple patients with one ventilator, as a last resort when ventilators are in short supply. Putting two patients on one ventilator requires matching patients with similar characteristics (sex, height, age and lung sizes) to avoid one patient being over ventilated and the other being under ventilated, and in order to safely care for suspected or confirmed coronavirus patients.
At Stony Brook Medicine, researchers and doctors are examining the forces that cause unequal distribution of lung volumes and airway pressures, while using complex test models of diseased lungs. With this important research, Stony Brook is able to vary airway resistance and compliance and mimic (acute respiratory distress syndrome) ARDS-like conditions, which allows to test the use of inline valves and resistance devices to solve these problems. Dr. Mohamed Mansour, a pulmonary and critical care physician and Director of the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU) at Stony Brook University Hospital, is available to discuss this work.
Addressing the Growing Need for Additional Staff: Having now met all graduation requirements, the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University is allowing senior medical students to graduate in early April, so that they might begin their professional career as a physician at Stony Brook University Hospital. They will be able to work under the supervision of residents, fellows and attending physicians to address the growing number and complexity of patients being admitted to our hospital, precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The graduates would then proceed to begin their residencies July 1.
3/31/20
PSEG: 2020 Census Reminder
2020 Census – Have a Say in Your Future
Right now, we’re all seeking anything that qualifies as “business as usual.” Here’s one that is vital to Long Island and the Rockaways.
The 2020 Census is underway and by participating, you can help ensure that our residents and businesses get their full share of public funds for health care, schools, police, fire, roads and much more.
It’s easy to complete the 10 basic Census questions online, by mail or over the phone. Your information is safe, secure and confidential. The Census does not ask for sensitive information like Social Security numbers, immigration status or bank account information.
You have a lot on your mind, but there’s a lot at stake. Learn more at 2020Census.gov.
3/31/20
Southold Town: SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)
The U.S. Small Business Administration is committed to help bring relief to small businesses and nonprofit organizations suffering because of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
On March 27, 2020, President Trump signed into law the CARES Act, which provided additional assistance for small business owners and non-profits, including the opportunity to get up to a $10,000 Advance on an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL). This Advance may be available even if your EIDL application was declined or is still pending, and will be forgiven.
If you wish to apply for the Advance on your EIDL, please visit SBA.gov/Disaster as soon as possible to fill out a new, streamlined application. In order to qualify for the Advance, you need to submit this new application even if you previously submitted an EIDL application. Applying for the Advance will not impact the status or slow your existing application.
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan application: covid19relief.sba.gov/#/
SBA Bridge Loan Program: sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources.
3/31/20
Drive-Thru Coronavirus Testing Site Opens in Riverhead
Congressman Lee Zeldin (R, NY-1), member of the bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force, issued the following statement after the opening of a new drive-thru coronavirus testing site in Riverhead:
“After hearing from countless constituents and advocating for a drive-thru testing facility further east in NY-1, I am happy to report that an East End testing site is now open in Riverhead. This testing site is desperately needed for those who call the East End home, This critical service, in a more convenient location for East End residents, will provide vital testing to the forks.“
The new testing facility is at 1149 Old Country Road in Riverhead and will be open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Testing is by appointment only. Those who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms can make an appointment by calling 516-874-0411.
3/30/20
SUFFOLK COUNTY SPCA PREPARED FOR RESPONSE DURING PANDEMIC
The Suffolk County SPCA is reminding you that they are still responding to and investigating reports of alleged animal abuse in Suffolk County.
Roy Gross, Chief of the agency said that the Suffolk County SPCA is an Essential Service and remains open 24 hours per day, seven days a week. Our Peace Officers and volunteers have received Personal Protective Equipment and I have instructed them to follow the Best Practice Guidelines offered by the Center for Disease Control.
In addition to needing donations to continue the fight against abuse, Gross said that the SCSPCA is in dire need of N95 Face Masks, Hand Sanitizer and Disinfecting Wipes for responding personnel. “We just can’t get them”, said Gross. We have people trying to secure them on a daily basis but unfortunately by the time agencies get to us on the list, the supply is depleted.
If you are a business owner or if you have an abundance of new masks you would like to donate, Chief Gross is asking that you contact the SCSPCA office at 631-382-7722.
The Suffolk County SPCA is a Not-for-Profit and operates solely on donations made by the public. It does not receive any local, state or federal funding.
3/30/20
Southold Town Waste Facility Update
Effective Monday, March 30 commercial users of the compost facility who have charge accounts with the Town will be charged the usual fees for compost ($15/yd) and woodchip mulch ($5/yd). Commercial users without Town charge accounts will need to establish an account if eligible. In order to minimize interaction with the scale operators, there will be no cash or credit card sales of mulch and woodchips until further notice. Users with pickup trucks or larger may be loaded by Town equipment Monday–Friday ONLY. There will be no loading with Town equipment on weekends.
3/30/20
Great East End Clean-up to be postponed due to COVID-19
Each year, the Great East End Clean-up has attracted hundreds of volunteers to
clean up our roadsides, parks, trails, and beaches. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the
clean-up on April 25–26 will be postponed to ensure residents stay home to flatten the
curve. Please adhere to social distancing guidelines, washing your hands and most
importantly stay home. A new date will be announced once it is safe for public
gatherings. If you have any further questions, please contact May Zegarelli at
MZegarelli@southamptontownny.gov or 631-287-5745.
3/30/20
Congressman Lee Zeldin: What CARES Act Means for Health and Economy
What The CARES Act Means for Our Health and Our Economy
Op-ed by Congressman Lee Zeldin
With several tens of thousands of documented coronavirus cases, New York is the state hit hardest by the ongoing outbreak. Our response has been a whole-government, top-to-bottom response from President Trump to Governor Cuomo to our local elected officials and other community leaders. Whether it was approving testing in state and private labs, the approval of semi-automated testing, shipments of ventilators from the national stockpile, and the deployments of the USNS Comfort hospital ship and over 600 Army medics from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and Fort Hood, Texas, the bipartisan, Americans-first response to coronavirus in New York should serve as a model for everyone across the country.
Finally, after countless days and hours of negotiations and back and forth, Congress produced a law that provides critically and urgently needed funding for hospitals, state and local governments and small businesses and workers. In fact, this law includes $367 billion in assistance for small businesses. It provides over $100 billion in support for health care workers and hospitals and $150 billion for states, cities and localities for the battle against coronavirus on-the-ground. This law also delivers $16 billion for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits, ventilators, and other medical supplies for federal and state response efforts, especially our local responders as they confront this pandemic head on.
This agreement increases the Medicare reimbursement rate to assist providers caring for our most vulnerable population, employs the Strategic National Stockpile to increase access to test kits, expedites FDA consideration of new medication and treatments and facilitates the use of new and innovative telemedicine technology to protect and contain the spread of COVID-19.
Not only does this law provide direct tax rebates for the American families who most need it and bolster unemployment insurance, but it also provides up to $10 million loans for the small businesses that are the backbone of their local economy and workforce. Nationally, it provides loans to critical industries while ensuring that those companies that accept these loans must retain 90% of their workforce and are banned from stock buybacks and dividends.
As I and others had previously stated, the CARES Act should be solely laser-focused on helping our hospitals, our economy, and our state and local governments to get through this moment in time. Thankfully at the end of the day, while not perfect with some items added that belonged in a different debate on a different day for a different bill, those who need help from the CARES Act the most are the greatest winners.
This legislation will build on continued federal assistance for the State of New York, which includes FEMA sending 4,000 ventilators from the national stockpile, the Army Corps building several temporary hospitals in New York, including at SUNY Stony Brook and SUNY Old Westbury, and placing 2,910 hospital beds in the Javits Center in New York City to assist area hospitals in increasing patient capacity.
We are Americans, and there is no doubt we will emerge from this pandemic stronger and more resilient than ever before. This is a national crisis, which started in China and is now global, and if our nation is going to beat coronavirus we must be in the fight together. I hope every Member of Congress has learned this lesson. I know too many New Yorkers and Americans have.
Congressman Lee Zeldin represents New York’s First Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives where he serves as a member of the bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force.
3/29/20
The State of The Church and Safety First
Like individuals and families as well as cultural institutions across the region, country and globe, The Church is adjusting to these grave times.
For over a year, work on the historic edifice on Madison Street has been constant. Thanks to the exceptional work of architect Lee Skolnick and the construction crew at Moises Cerdas Builder, it has been thrilling to see The Church coming to life, reborn, intact, and soaring with hope for a bright future of art, creativity and community.
We were planning to open this summer. Although that timetable is now on hold, and construction has been ordered to be temporarily halted, we wanted to give you reassurance of our commitment to building a place of which we can all be proud. We will open our doors as soon as it is in the best interest of public safety and ask that you stay in touch to keep up to date with developments.
As some of you may have seen, on the evening of March 23, 2020, we turned on the lights in The Church for the first time since the building was deconsecrated over a decade ago. It was a hopeful promise of what is to come. With your engagement and support, we aspire to be a beacon for our community.
We wish you and yours safe passage through this difficult crisis.
Eric Fischl & April Gornik, Founders
Sara Cochran, Executive Director
Tommy John Schiavoni, Nicole Seligman, and Sally Susman, Board Members
3/29/20
Springtime Greetings to our RJD Gallery Friends
Spring has arrived and with it a sense of rebirth and renewal. Despite the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, spring has nonetheless carried on, bringing the promise of better days for which we all hope.
In just a few short weeks we have had to adjust from gathering with family and friends – at museums, movie theaters and of course, art openings – to a more solitary lifestyle making us realize the value such gatherings bring to our lives. We know that once we are able to reopen to the public, we will provide that sense of community and sharing again.
In the meantime, we will keep in touch with you through email and our website. You can also connect with us through our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter channels. Our gallery openings will now be available online through virtual receptions with the RJD Gallery team of Richard, Joi and Mago, sharing details about the featured artists and their artwork on display. We hope you will take some time from the news of the day and just look at art – through our gallery, your favorite museum or the artworks in your home. Art has wonderful restorative qualities, something we all need today!
Please know we are thinking of you and your loved ones, and hope you are all well.
3/29/20
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo: Update on Coronavirus
I write to update you on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Today, I extended our “New York on PAUSE” policy until April 15th. That means non-essential businesses and schools will continue to stay closed. Gatherings of any size for any reason remain canceled and all New Yorkers continue to be directed to practice social distancing — by staying home and keeping six feet of space from others when in public.
Tragically, we have now lost almost a thousand New Yorkers to this vicious virus. We mourn them deeply. Every life lost is one too many. We are fighting to save every life we can. You can help us by staying home and slowing the spread.
As we try to reduce the spread, at the same time we are also preparing for the worst — as we must. We are expanding hospital capacity so that the system is not overwhelmed during the “apex” of the virus — the point at which the number of cases is at its high point. To this end, a 1,000 bed temporary hospital is opening at the Javits Center on Monday, and other temporary hospitals are being built in partnership with FEMA and the Army Corps of Engineers. Three COVID-only facilities are also planned.
Also on Monday, the USNS Comfort, a Navy hospital ship, will arrive in New York Harbor, staffed with 1,200 medical professionals.
I want to take a moment to thank all the workers on the front line of this crisis: the healthcare professionals, the doctors, nurses, EMTs, the firefighters, the police officers, the transit workers and countless others. They are showing up to work every day, risking their lives to help others. There are no words that can convey how deeply grateful our state is for their selflessness, professionalism and bravery. They are heroes.
Sign up for nightly emails with the facts you should know about the novel coronavirus pandemic.
We know that many New Yorkers are suffering financially because of this pandemic. I want to remind New Yorkers that help is available. Unemployment insurance claims will be backdated to the date New Yorkers became unemployed and eligible New Yorkers will be paid all benefits due. There are also new Paid Leave benefits for those who are subject to an order of quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19.
These are extraordinary times, and I know that many New Yorkers are anxious and afraid. But with your cooperation and the heroism of our fellow New Yorkers on the front lines we will beat this virus. We will get through this and we will come out even stronger.
Ever Upward,
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
3/27/20
Target CEO Shares Measures Taken to Stock Stores and Protect Health of Workers and Customers
As coronavirus response efforts continue, Target’s team and business are playing a vital role, ensuring our stores are safe, stocked and ready to serve communities across America.
Last week, Target announced a $300 million+ investment that will support our team members and communities in a number of important ways. And today, we shared an update on our business and financial guidance, including how we’ll prioritize work in the weeks and months ahead to focus on helping families navigate this challenging time.
Chairman and CEO Brian Cornell shares more about the plans HERE.
3/27/20
Want to Help? Stony Brook Accepting Comfort Item Donations For Patients
As donation items continue to pour in from the community in order to help healthcare providers working on the front line of the COVID-19 pandemic, Stony Brook University Hospital is also accepting items that will help comfort our patients and enhance their experience while they are missing their loved ones and the comforts of home. These include puzzles, activity books, pens, colored pencils, sleep masks, aromatherapy, ear plugs and other quality of life items to make those hospitalized, as well as those caring for them, feel as at ease as possible.
Stony Brook is also continuing to accept donations of iPads for telehealth, medical supplies and other comfort care items such as gum, lip balm, tissues and snacks.
In order to maintain social distancing and safety, appointments are being scheduled for donation drop off. Please contact: Joan Dickinson, Stony Brook University Community Relations Director, at COVID19donations@stonybrook.edu or call 631-219-0603 to schedule an appointment.
3/27/20
Southold Town Explains Delays in SBA Disaster Assistance for Coronavirus
Please Understand The Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program will have inherent delays in processing applications and is not a quick process. As our business advisers will assist our clients in understanding the application process, please be aware of potential time constraints and delays that may occur.
3/27/20
Stony Brook Medicine COVID-19 Briefing Update
Mental Health Experts Boost Spirits and Provide Counseling
Unprecedented times require unprecedented efforts. They also can take a significant toll on our personal and mental health. Our Disaster Mental Health Team is busy working to bring us helpful ways to deal with the stress and anxiety we may be feeling during this time. They have created a Wellness Champions channel on Microsoft Teams. Starting this week, virtual support groups are being offered three times a day at 8 a.m., 12 p.m., and 8 p.m. through the Virtual Support Groups Teams channel also on Microsoft Teams. Other support resources include daily live streaming meditations, virtual mass/prayers from our Chapel and inspirational messages of support which can be found on the Community Messages of Support channel. Dr. Adam Gonzalez, a licensed clinical psychologist and Director of Behavioral Health and Founding Director of the Mind Body Clinical Research Center at Stony Brook Medicine, is available to discuss this initiative.
Strategies for Optimizing the Supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Supplies of individual items of personal protective equipment can be expected to become strained as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve. In anticipation of strained resources, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital and Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital are using extension tubing so health care workers do not have to enter a patient’s room to monitor IV bags. Here are other innovative ways we’re addressing the potential shortage of PPE.
• Installing physical barriers (e.g., glass or plastic windows) at reception areas to limit contact between triage personnel and potentially infectious patients.
• SBUH is accepting iPad donations to provide telecommunication for our patients to connect with our medical staff.
• Elective surgeries and procedures have been postponed allowing PPE from those units to be deployed elsewhere.
Stony Brook Now Accepting Personal Protective Equipment Donations
In order to stay ahead of the demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) during the current coronavirus outbreak, Stony Brook University is hosting a donation drive, accepting donations in person and via mail.
Stony Brook University will be collecting donations of personal protective equipment (PPE), which will be given to Stony Brook University Hospital. The university is currently accepting PPE donations that include face shields, N95 3M 1860 masks, protective eyewear, goggles, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer and other supplies required for staff safety. The PPE will then be distributed to medical personnel to use while interacting with patients who are suspected of and confirmed with coronavirus.
To donate items, please email COVID19donations@stonybrook.edu so that a drop-off time and location can be arranged.
Fundraiser for PPE Needs for SBUH Workers
Workers on the front lines at Stony Brook University Hospital have already received more gloves, gowns, N95 masks and a generator that sanitizes masks to reuse them thanks to donations to the Coronavirus Crisis Fund. The Della Pietra Family launched the fundraising challenge to raise $500,000 for critical COVID-19 supplies and treatments.
“Please accept their challenge. Help us purchase the supplies we need to protect and care for our community,” said Kenneth Kaushansky, MD, Senior VP of Health Sciences and Dean of the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University. “As I watch everyone come together during this difficult time, I have never been more proud to be a part of this incredible community.”
Donations can be made online with each being generously doubled by the Della Pietra Family.
40+ 3D PPE Face Shields Donated To iCREATE From Suffolk Libraries
In addition to the 3D face shields currently in production in the University’s iCREATE Innovation Lab, Suffolk Libraries have also donated more than 40 frames made by their 3D printers. The frames are then being brought to campus in shifts and assembled by the team at iCreate. Our supply chain professionals are working diligently to secure additional supplies and substitutable items. We are working with businesses in the community who can develop compliant face shields at mass quantities; our own campus innovators are developing PPE through 3D printing (see video) of which have already been deployed.
3/26/20
Southold Town Addresses Small Business Administration (SBA) – Economic Injury Disaster Loans
On March 20, 2020, the State of New York received a Major Disaster Declaration FEMA-4480-DR from President Trump for the COVID-19 Incident. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has established a disaster declaration for New York which makes available Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) for small businesses in New York State. The objective of the EIDLs it to provide working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. Please find the attached information from the SBA providing program details and application information.
3/26/20
East End Cares & Clamshell Foundation: Emergency “5 for Food” Campaign for Area Food Pantries
East Hampton, Springs, Sag Harbor and Montauk food pantries face overwhelming demand in wake of COVID-19.
The Clamshell Foundation and East End Cares have joined together with a volunteer contingent of year-round residents and second homeowners from across the East End in a community-wide effort to raise critically needed funds for emergency food supplies for local food pantries.
Christopher Barry, an EEC member who is spearheading the campaign with Kori Peters, President of the Clamshell Foundation, said “COVID-19 has left many in our community without jobs or alternate means of support. A rapidly growing number of the elderly, families and children are relying on local food pantries to survive during this time of uncertainty and challenge. We hope, by asking for just a $5 donation, everyone will be able to join in. Every dollar will go directly to provide emergency food to the East Hampton Food Pantry, Springs Food Pantry, Sag Harbor Food Pantry, and Montauk Food Pantry.”
Donations can be made on the home page of the Clamshell Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, at www.clamshellfoundation.org or by clicking on https://bit.ly/3dsdVKc. All donations are tax deductible.
Barry, a resident of East Hampton and Manhattan and a finance executive for A&E Networks, added, “East End Cares is gratified to be collaborating with the Clamshell Foundation and such an incredible team of volunteers who came together from various disciplines to support the 5 FOR FOOD campaign. With the community behind us, I believe that we can fill these food pantries and the bellies and hearts of our neighbors in need.”
William Kalbacher, CEO of The Clamshell Foundation, said “We are so thankful for East End Cares. It is an honor to be working with them as we strive to make a difference in the community during this difficult time. Thank you to everyone who is helping others stay safe and healthy.”
Melissa Berman, one of the founders of EEC, said, “In so many ways we are already a paycheck to paycheck community—and now, too many of our neighbors face unemployment without sick pay or benefits of any kind. Food is the most basic of needs for every individual and every family. Food is love. And we want to share as much of both as we can.”
3/26/20
PSEG Long Island: Helping those who need it most
I have been incredibly inspired and humbled by the response of our medical community – the doctors, nurses and hospital staffs, the first-responders such as police, fire fighters and paramedics. And also, the individuals who are keeping our world functioning as normally as possible – the people who work in grocery stores, restaurants and pharmacies, just to name a few. All of these folks are true heroes.
We also have a few heroes of our own at PSEG – such as the teams in Long Island and New Jersey who are keeping our power plants running, and the electric and gas field workers who are making sure our homes and businesses have the power they need to see us through this difficult period. Our employees are dedicated to serving our customers and supporting the communities we serve.
To continue to do our part, PSEG has provided:
Two $45,000 grants, to the Island Harvest Food Bank on Long Island and Community FoodBank of New Jersey, to help our communities’ hardest-hit families access the food and support they need during this time.
Support for customers by suspending shut-offs for non-payment; providing tools customers can use to access their accounts remotely; temporarily suspending various types of non-critical repair work while continuing to respond to emergencies; practicing the CDC’s social distancing guidelines; and directing all employees who can work remotely to do so.
Community is about connection – something we often take for granted. At a time when we’re all being asked to shrink our worlds and limit our connections, it’s more important than ever to find ways to send help to those in our communities who need it most.
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted all of our lives. In response, we’re doing everything we can to make sure that people are still able to charge their phones to call loved ones, stay warm and comfortable in their homes, and provide a hot meal for their families.
It’s the day-to-day things that can make all the difference in how we’re able to cope in a crisis. We’re all in this together, and together we’ll pull through.
3/26/20
Dr. Gerry Curatola, DDS, East Hampton’s wellness expert and biologic restorative dentist with more than 30 years of clinical practice experience, has taken a different approach to how we can prevent and heal ourselves from Coronavirus.
Dr. Curatola agrees that the standard recommendations contain a good level of common sense, but there is a lot that he recommends we should be doing to be proactive in your defense against the virus through your body’s innate ability to self-regulate and heal. Dr. Curatola has outlined five important measures that will help protect you, as well as reduce and eliminate the threat of this novel virus. These deterrents promote a highly functioning immune system with optimal nutrition, proper sleep, daily exercise, stress reduction, and elimination of toxicity. He considers these five measures the most important building blocks to keeping you strong in body, mind and spirit so that your body can heal itself. Many of these measures he has outlined in his book, The Mouth-Body Connection (Hachette 2017.)
1. NUTRITION:
Healthy eating can be compared to what gas you put in your car’s tank. Everyone knows the higher the octane, the better your car’s performance. It’s the same with your body. For your body’s immune system to function optimally and reduce chronic inflammation, Dr. Curatola describes “triple A” nutrition: alkalizing, antioxidant rich and anti-inflammatory. So go for the SuperGreens. Broccoli, Celery, Kale, Spinach, Kelp, Alfalfa, Spirulina and Chlorella are all alkaline promoting, antioxidant rich, and help to reduce inflammation.
2. SLEEP:
One of the most important ways to support a healthy immune system is good quality of sleep, and corresponding airway health. During sleep, your immune system releases protective proteins called cytokines, some of which help promote sleep. These increase when you have an infection or inflammation, or when you’re under stress. Research has found that sound sleep improves production of immune cells, which fight against pathogens including viruses and bacteria.
Dr. Curatola states that the best way to address the quality of your sleep is with an airway (sleep) study, a CBCT (cone beam) and evaluation by a qualified dental airway health specialist – each of which is available at Dr. Curatola’s NYC practice.
What can be found by doing this? Many times a narrow dental arch and high vaulted palate are signs of an airway deficiency which in turn causes sleep apnea, a dangerous airway deficiency. This can be corrected by remodeling the dental arches in the mouth with removable appliance therapy in our office. The proper corrective alignment of teeth will allow the tongue more room to allow the airway to be more open in the back of the mouth.
3. EXERCISE:
There are multiple reasons why regular daily exercise is essential to a healthy immune system, besides overall physical and mental health. It’s important to focus on healthy exercise, such as the simple HIIT (high intensity interval training ) which can be done with inexpensive resistance bands in a 15 minute session twice per week, as outlined in his book, The Mouth-Body Connection. HIIT has also been shown to promote healthy hormone levels and increases the production of natural human growth hormone (HGH) which is essential for your body’s cell to regenerate.
Physical exercise decreases stress hormones which weaken the body’s ability to fight infection and exercise boosts the immune system by increasing insulin sensitivity in the cells and lowering blood sugar, while getting blood moving and flushing toxins and waste from the body.
4. STRESS:
The term “stress is a killer” is clearly evident by its ability to wreak havoc in the entire body while chronically diminishing the immune response. In turn, this lowers the body’s ability to defend itself from all pathogens including viruses, bacteria, mold, parasites and candida. When under stress your body is in an exhaustive state that handicaps its ability to defend itself. Restoring the autonomic nervous system to a parasympathetic state and breaking the destructive cycle of stress is also outlined in my book and can be accomplished through a simple mindfulness meditation practice.
Dr. Curatola recommends in his book, The Mouth-Body Connection, incorporating seven anti-inflammatory yoga poses for deep relaxation. All of which will help reset your autonomic nervous system and restore your immune system as well.
5. TOXICITY:
As I stated in, The Mouth-Body Connection, our body was not designed to deal with the thousands of manmade chemicals that are poisoning us from the air you breathe, the water you drink, the food you eat, the cleaning and grooming products we use and even the clothes we wear. The elimination of toxicity in the mouth is an important part of restoring the body’s ability to self-regulate, heal and defend itself from any exposure to pathogens and disease, including Coronavirus (COVID-19).
In addition to the manmade chemicals, Dr. Curatola says the exposure to heavy metals is a chronic drain on our ability to self-regulate and heal, including mercury in dental amalgam fillings and nickel and cadmium in metal crowns.
This toxic minefield, with much of it remaining chronic in the mouth, is a bioburden that dysregulates proper bodily functions and can even lead to disease and cancer.
Elimination of toxicity needs to be done by the right biologically-minded and trained medical and dental professionals who understand the role of toxicity on the immune system. It has been estimated that over 80-90% of chronic toxicity in the body comes from the mouth. Gum disease, afflicting over 80% of the adult population is the body’s #1 source of chronic low grade inflammation- like a “silent alarm bell” going unanswered. With the advance of 3-D technology (conebeam/CBCT, jaw cavitation/jaw osteonecrosis (JON), holes of cavities of dead bone are being diagnosed and recognized as yet another source of chronic inflammation and a threat to the optimal function of the body’s immune system.
What to do: Easy quick fixes if you can’t get in to see your dentist? Switch to natural toothpaste, look at the labels, if it contains a list of chemicals then switch. Look at your dental products, do they contain fluoride? Flouride, once the “darling of preventative dentistry is, in reality a toxic chemical as well, mandating the FDA to put a poison warning on products with this. Switch these out immediately!
3/26/20
Message from Southampton History Museum: Public Spaces
Dear Museum Friends,
Spring is in the air and with it comes a sense of renewal and growth.
We believe our museum’s public spaces can offer a great way to stay in touch with nature. If you are out for a walk, please visit any of our 4 properties and reconnect with the budding world around you.
Rogers Mansion Museum Complex, 17 Meeting House Lane
Relax on a bench and look at a collection of Southampton’s historic buildings.
The Halsey House Homestead, 249 South Main Street
Look at a sunset through newly budding trees at NYS’s oldest wood-frame building.
Pelletreau Silver Shop, 80 Main Street
See the perennial herbs begin to wake up in Emma’s Garden.
Conscience Point Historic Site & Nature Walk, 1640 Conscience Point Road in North Sea
Take the crushed shell walk through the marshland to observe wildlife.
Wherever you are, we hope nature can feed your soul and inspire everyone to get through these times of uncertainty.
The Museum’s staff is busy creating new types of virtual programs, lectures and events to keep us connected. We will be announcing them soon. Until then follow us on Instagram, Facebook & Twitter to see some of our historic collections selected by staff.
Please know that we are thinking of you and your loved ones, and hope you are all well.
Kind Regards,
Tom Edmonds
Executive Director
Southampton History Museum
3/25/20
Message from Southold Town Supervisor Scott A. Russell
Southold has been, and continues to be, the town most impacted in Suffolk County by the COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The virus has put a tremendous strain on our resources. Our community residents continue to be the most at-risk by the spread of this virus. A new trend is taking place that puts our local residents at even further risk- people seeking refuge from the metropolitan areas. It is simple math, the more people that come, the greater the spread and the greater the confirmed cases.
We have a limited number of stores who are trying to keep their shelves stocked and ration out supplies as best they can. Local residents are finding it difficult to meet even their most basic needs. Unnecessary hoarding and the recent, sudden expansion of the population by those who come are making this far worse.
Southold relies heavily on volunteer first responders who are trying to protect this community and their families, all while managing with limited protective gear. Their heroic efforts are under substantial strain.
Our limited medical resources are over-burdened and, despite stellar healthcare facilities, they are reaching capacity which has the potential of limiting access to local residents.
I am joining Southampton Supervisor Jay Schneiderman in requesting that Governor Cuomo put a travel ban to the east end in place limiting travel to only essential personnel. Our resources are scarce, the risk of spread is too high for a Town which is already seeing more than its share of confirmed cases and deaths. Southold should NOT be treated as someone’s personal isolation unit.
For those who already have come here, follow federal guidelines to self- quarantine for 14 days. It is essential to avoid public exposure to others at all costs and they need to stay in place.
This Town is in a crisis. It is bound to get worse and sometimes draconian measures are necessary. A travel ban is one of those measures. For others who have decided to use Southold as a shelter, respect this community and stay inside.
3/25/20
Parrish Art Museum Offers Friday Night Live Online Program
The Parrish Art Museum announces Friday Nights Live—a new weekly program featuring live-streaming, online chat, and prerecorded segments. The series launches this Friday with a tour of the 2020 Student Exhibition with Museum Director Terrie Sultan and Education Director Cara Conklin-Wingfield. The new initiative enables the Museum to continue offering the community a way to engage with art, artists, and one another by adapting its popular Friday Night programs to the online space, with the new earlier time of 5 p.m.
“Now more than ever we feel it is important to stay connected with our community and show our face—literally,” said Corinne Erni, Senior Curator of ArtsReach and Special Projects. “Friday Nights are a tradition at the Parrish, and we want to keep coming together to present great art programs such as talks, panels, and gallery tours with our curators and our artists!”
The first online event, Friday, March 27 at 5 pm, is a Talk and Gallery Tour of the 2020 Student Exhibition, a 60-year tradition at the Parrish. The program begins with a live introduction by Sultan followed by the pre-recorded tour of the extraordinary work on view at the Museum. The program concludes with a live Q&A chat with Sultan, Conklin-Wingfield, and the audience. This Gallery Tour & Talk is available to the public, free of charge. Login information will be available on Friday at 5pm on the Parrish website. The video will be accessible on the website in the days after the program.
The tour will bring to light paintings, sculpture, drawings, and photography created by more than 1,000 young artists from 37 public, private, and home schools in Eastern Long Island who created group and individual works under the direction of their art teachers and in art clubs. Special highlights of the tour include the work by this year’s honorees—select high school seniors recognized by Professor Neill Slaughter for their exceptional talent and skill, in categories ranging from painting to mixed media.
Sultan and Conklin-Wingfield also discuss work created by over 300 students Southampton and Hampton Bays Life Skills, and Bridgehampton, East Hampton, Southampton, and Tuckahoe Schools who participated in Artist-in-Residence workshops with Irina Alimanestianu, Scott Bluedorn and Bastienne Schmidt—participating artists in the Museum’s recent exhibition Artists Choose Artists.
GALLERY TOUR & TALK:
2020 Student Exhibition Talk and Tour
with Terrie Sultan and Cara Conklin-Wingfield
Friday, March 27, at 5 pm
3/25/20
Hamptons Doc Fest Introduces Free Weekly Fest Favorites Films
Hamptons Doc Fest Favorites
In these very difficult days, connections to each other are more important than ever. Since documentary film is what we do best, we want to share some of our Fest Favorites. We will be recommending a film each Wednesday as a ‘mid-week treat’ for you to enjoy.
The first, PENNY AND RED, is one to lift your spirits, as we enter what would be the season celebrating thoroughbred horse-racing’s Triple Crown.
The full film if free to screen, courtesy of filmmaker John Tweedy (Penny’s son).
Thank you, John
Hamptons Doc Fest website: https://www.hamptonsdocfest.com/
3/25/20
Sag Harbor Cinema Introduces Home Movie of the Week
Long before Netflix and the other streaming platforms; before DVD, VHS and TCM, it was the Million Dollar Movie. Airing between 1955 and 1966 on WOR-TV, Channel 9 (serving New York City and suburbs) the legendary series established a bridge between the dreaded new medium of television and cinema.
In this era of endless watching possibilities, while most movie theaters of the country are dark, we’d like to honor the Million Dollar Movie tradition by picking one film a week for you to discover, explore, or simply think about from home, until we can actually bring them all to you on our beautiful big screens
A famous fixture of the Million Dollar Movie series, Tales of Hoffman (1951, UK) is one of the films Martin Scorsese loves the most. It was the favorite of all time for George Romero, director of Night of the Leaving Dead (1968; one of the most poignant movies ever made about a plague). Without knowing each other (one grew up in Queens, the other in the Bronx), the two young film-makers sparred over the single 16mm print of Tales that was available for circulation, for decades, at the Donnell Public Library, in Midtown Manhattan. That battered 16mm print is how I saw the film for the first time.
It is a marvel. ’til next week.
Giulia
Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s great adaptation of Jacques Offenbach’s opera, Tales of Hoffman, is our first SHC Movie of the Week. A marvelous combination of music, dance and magical wonders, in eye popping Technicolor (so ideal for E.T.A Hoffman fantasy tales!). Recently restored with the support of Martin Scorsese’s The Film Foundation and the British Film Institute, the film is available on DVD and Blu Ray through Amazon
https://www.amazon.com/Tales-Hoffmann-Special-Digitally-Restored/dp/B00PIN4PTQ
3/25/20
Save Sag Harbor Shares Local Donation Drive Info
A local initiative from Sag Harbor. Share the glove! as it were.
Andy writes: I am reaching out as my son Charlie, the class president of the 6th Grade in Sag Harbor, is spearheading an effort to rally the community to donate desperately needed medical supplies.
As of this moment Meals-on-Wheels is in the most desperate need to continue serving this vulnerable community and we are bringing masks and gloves directly to them.
Our plan is to coordinate with the local Fire Departments and Stony Brook Southampton Hospital if we, hopefully, are able to collect enough materials.
We are happy to pick up materials or anyone can drop off and leave things on our porch in Sag Harbor at 262 Madison Street.
– Andy Stern
And per this: do you know about the drive to make home-made masks for health care workers? Get out your sewing machines!
http://www.acraftyfox.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/IMG_1010.jpg
3/25/20
Foodie Card Adds Takeout Options and Doubles Donations to Island Harvest in Wake of Coronavirus
Foodie Card is a dining subscription card that was founded in 2018 with the mission to drive awareness to local restaurants, allow members to save money and help feed the hungry.
The concept is simple, members pay a $29.99 fee each year to join the program and participating restaurants agree to offer 10-percent off to members every time they dine at the restaurant. The program has 650+ restaurants and 10,000+ members. Every time a new member buys a card, the company donates a day of meals to a local food bank. The company was launched in Long Island in Nassau County and has currently donated 20,000+ meals to Island Harvest since inception.
The company’s core goals in these uncertain times will be to support both restaurants in need and those less fortunate. To accomplish this goal the company has implemented a takeout program and has already gained 250+ participating restaurants on Long Island (and that number is growing daily). The company is constantly updating subscribers and working to drive business to restaurants on a continuing basis.
To adhere to social distancing while maintaining our commitment to feeding those less fortunate, we made our quarterly donation to Island Harvest via video conference. And starting today the company will be doubling their donation on all sales (both new members and renewals) throughout the second quarter. The equivalent of feeding two people per day.
3/25/20
Southold Town Supply Drive: We Need Your Help
The response to the COVID-19 has resulted in a national shortage of personal protective equipment. We need these critical supplies to ensure the safety of our first responders, police officers and other healthcare professionals who are on the front line of protecting our health, welfare and safety.
We ask that any business in personal services such as nail salons, tattoo parlors, beauty salons and any individuals to donate equipment they have to fill this vital need. Masks, gloves, gowns and other personal protective equipment are in short supply. Supervisor Scott Russell is launching a Supply Drive to help obtain N95 masks, ear lobe face masks, gowns and gloves.
“We need to do all we can and give all we can give to help protect those who are on the front line of this battle” said Supervisor Russell “and we need to remember to take all steps necessary to protect ourselves, our family and our community”
For those who wish to donate, you can contact the Supervisor’s office at 631-765-1889 or the Southold Town Police Department at 631-765-2600 to arrange for pick up or drop off.
“We remain committed to serving our community during this national health crisis and are taking all precautions necessary to keep both our staff healthy and support the efforts of all of our health care professionals”, said Police Chief Martin Flatley, “we urge all residents to cooperate with social distancing standards to prevent the spread of this virus.”
Also, the New York State Department of health is allowing people to make appointments for their Suffolk County mobile testing site at Stony Brook Hospital now You can call 1-888-364-3065 to talk to a healthcare professional.
Authority: Chief Martin Flatley – Town of Southold Police Department
3/25/20
Message from PSEG
PSEG Long Island is more committed than ever to the health and safety of our customers, communities and employees.
While many of us are serving you from our own homes, we are grateful to our field crews who continue to go out into our communities every day to ensure that you receive reliable, uninterrupted power. If you see our crews, please be sure to practice social distancing, just as they are doing. It’s for everyone’s safety, which is the highest priority.
Our thoughts are with you and your family as we weather this period of uncertainty together. Thank you for the trust you place in PSEG Long Island and know that we will continue to be here to serve and support you, 24/7.
3/24/20
Stony Brook University Hospital Coronavirus Patient Triage Moves to South P Lot Testing Facility
Effective today, Stony Brook University Hospital’s coronavirus triage service is located at the South P Lot testing facility on the Stony Brook University campus on the corner of Stony Brook Road and South Drive. The triage area is staffed with board-certified emergency medicine physicians and emergency medicine nurses.
Stony Brook Medicine has also established 631-638-1320 as a coronavirus triage phone line for the community. Registered nurses are available to answer calls from 8 am to midnight, Monday through Friday. Callers will be evaluated and directed to the appropriate healthcare setting for assistance, as needed.
Where to go to seek care, and when:
If you have been advised by your doctor to seek urgent medical care or you require evaluation by a medical professional, please go directly to Stony Brook University Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED).
From 11 am to 11 pm, patients driving to the ED entrance will be greeted and screened while in their vehicles. All patients will be evaluated by staff to determine the most appropriate care setting. This may include the main Emergency Department or the SB field ER at Stony Brook University’s South P Lot. The goal of the triage service is to separate patients with cold and flu-like symptoms from others seeking emergent care, in order to provide all patients with a streamlined environment for care and treatment.
Patients should not go to the Coronavirus patient triage in the South P Lot unless directed to do so by the Stony Brook Medicine Emergency Department staff. The main ED will remain operational as usual.
3/24/20
Message from Rep. Lee Zeldin: FEMA Sends Ventilators
As the state hit hardest by the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, the State of New York desperately needs ventilators to treat its ever-growing number of patients.
Today, I announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is sending 4,000 additional ventilators to New York State over the course of today and tomorrow.
In partnering closely with the Administration, especially incoming White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, and Governor Cuomo’s office, this delivery of vital ventilators is incredibly important progress.
Throughout this process, the cooperation between the federal, state and local governments in New York has served as a model of bipartisan cooperation, and that example continues today.
Last week, the Families First Coronavirus Act was signed into law providing free coronavirus testing, paid sick leave, family leave for caregivers, food assistance for the needy and enhanced unemployment insurance.
Right now, Congress is negotiating a must pass bill, which must follow in the bipartisan footsteps of the Families First Coronavirus Act.
This legislation shouldn’t be used as leverage to try to secure wish list items unrelated to coronavirus. The focus should be on getting our economy through this moment in time. Let’s deal with unrelated wish list items in a different debate and bill another day.
It’s an honor to represent you in the House of Representatives. To stay updated on the latest regarding the coronavirus outbreak, LIKE my Facebook page or visit zeldin.house.gov/coronavirus.
3/24/20
Message to Rogers Memorial Library Patrons
While the library is closed, we are happy to provide many services online through our Facebook and Instagram accounts, and hope you are enjoying the digital book clubs, video story time and recorded concerts. If you haven’t yet, please give us a follow @rogersmemoriallibrary on Instagram or like us at Rogers Memorial Library on Facebook take part in these virtual library programs!
We are also happy to announce that Ancestry has opened our Library Edition for HOME ACCESS through the end of April. Just click the link below to begin researching your family history!
We hope you enjoy these services and are safe and well!
3/24/20
Message from Jean-Georges Restaurants (Topping Rose House)
Dear Guests and Friends,
On March 15th, 2020, we made the difficult decision to temporarily close our restaurants in response to the global health crisis surrounding the Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). Our commitment to employee and guest safety meant that we could no longer open our dining rooms to the community we have served for over 30 years.
Many of you have asked how you can help our employees directly. 100% of the donations made here will go to our employees who are no longer able to earn a living because of this forced closure to the public. This includes over 1,000 cooks, bartenders, servers, porters, managers, chefs and many more.
On behalf of the JoJo, Jean-Georges, Nougatine, Perry St, Mercer Kitchen, Inn at Pound Ridge, and Abc restaurant teams, we are grateful for your consideration and generosity and eagerly await the day we get to serve you once again.
With gratitude,
JGV and the JG Restaurant Team
Sign our petition at Change.org and join us in supporting relief for New York’s Hospitality Workers and Businesses
ROAR (Relief Opportunities for all Restaurants) Coalition
For updates please visit us at jean-georges.com
3/24/20
Parrish Art Museum Seeks Immediate Donations
Dear Members and Friends,
At this uncertain time, our thoughts are with you. The health and safety of our community is most important and although our doors are closed, we are here for you.
But we need your immediate help.
Please consider making a donation to ensure that the Parrish Art Museum can ride out this difficult period and remain a beloved center for our community and a beacon of the arts in the Hamptons.
Thank you as always for your support and we look forward to welcoming you back into the Museum when our doors reopen. We are incredibly grateful to those of you who have already donated and have affirmed your belief in the power of art to lift our spirits during times of crisis.
With gratitude,
Terrie Sultan
Director
3/24/20
Stony Brook Southampton Hospital: Letter to Our Community
Dear Friends,
As concerns and numbers surrounding COVID-19 continue to rise, we want to share with you the efforts we are taking here at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital to help protect our East End community, patients, health workers and staff.
It is important to recognize this situation is fluid, and that we are responding in real time to vital new information as it arrives. Our dedicated healthcare workers and staff adapt quickly to the evolving CDC, New York State and Suffolk County Department of Health guidelines and policies, and conference daily with our colleagues at Stony Brook Medicine (SBM), including Stony Brook University and Eastern Long Island Hospitals.
In conjunction with SBM, we have activated a Hospital Incident Command Center (HICS) that convenes once a day to hear reports from the ambulatory and other departments. This helps us provide the best possible patient care, protect our healthcare providers, review the supply chain, allocate bed needs, ensure proper staffing, and establish and maintain the best isolation procedures and more.
We have installed a forward triage at the entrance of our Emergency Department (ED). English and Spanish signage directs patients with Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI, which includes COVID-19) to use a camera/speaker phone for instructions from a nurse on how to don a mask and enter the ED. We are sending patient samples to the New York State Department of Health’s Wadsworth Laboratories in Albany. Results may take 3-5 days during which time the patient is to remain in isolation and we are actively investigating ways to expedite this process.
Should the need arise, we have converted Parrish Memorial Hall to serve overflow from the Emergency Department. We are working to significantly increase our capacity for overflow beds, both ICU and medical-surgical, and are reviewing equipment and staffing that may be required. We have enlisted our medical residents and have other healthcare workers and staff standing-by, ready to deploy.
Telehealth is becoming a critical component in combating COVID-19 nationwide. At Stony Brook Medicine, telehealth predates the current coronavirus pandemic and has been used to serve the psychiatry and neurology services in several settings. We, here at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital are increasing telemedicine services. To date, in the Stony Brook Medicine system, more than 500 healthcare professionals are ready to see patients virtually.
As part of our efforts to reduce the spread of coronavirus to patients and staff, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital has postponed elective surgeries and procedures, as well as mammography screening. Urgent procedures or operations necessary to preserve life and function will not be postponed.
Per NYS DOH guidelines, with limited exceptions, visitors are not permitted in the ED or Hospital. We have canceled all wellness programs, exercise classes, and nutrition workshops. However, we are providing some classes via our YouTube channel and Zoom.
For information in English and Spanish about COVID-19 testing and our Emergency Department guidelines, please call 631-726-FACT (3228).
Should you be experiencing flu-like symptoms, cough and fever, please call your doctor. If you present to Stony Brook Southampton Hospital ED with a fever, cough, and flu-like symptom, including respiratory issues, please use the camera/speakerphone directly outside the Emergency Department before entering the building. A nurse will guide you on next steps, including donning a mask.
To help prevent spreading the virus: please stay home and when venturing out, maintain social distancing of 6 feet. Wash your hands well and often for at least 20 seconds or use a quality sanitizing hand gel. Don’t touch your nose, mouth or face unless you have cleaned your hands; when you sneeze, cover your nose or mouth with a tissue. Stay home if you are sick.
We have received numerous offers to donate PPE and other equipment. Your resourcefulness and generosity continues to humble us. If you have questions or would like to make a donation, please contact Steve Bernstein (steven.bernstein@stonybrookmedicine.edu) so he can record and track your donation. Please do not go or drop off items at the ED or the hospital as we need to keep those areas strictly for patients.
For updates on our local response to COVID-19, please visit our website as we update it frequently southampton.stonybrook.medicine.edu.
For information in English and Spanish about how to best present to the ED at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital, please call 631-726-FACT (3228).
Also helpful is the Stony Brook Medicine’s COVID-19 phone line at 631-638-1230 with trained staff to answer your questions.
Thank you for your support, patience and understanding during this time. We are very proud to be serving you.
Robert S. Chaloner
Chief Administrative Officer
Fredric I. Weinbaum, MD
Chief Medical Officer
Chief Operating Officer
3/24/20
NYS Opens Coronavirus Hotline: Schedule Testing
The New York State Department of Health is allowing people to make appointments at their Suffolk County mobile testing site at Stony Brook University Hospital now. Suffolk residents who want to make an appointment for the test can call the NYS Coronavirus Hotline at 1-888-364-3065 and they will be triaged by a nurse or a healthcare professional.
3/24/20
Message from Greenport Business District & Southold Town Community Action
Local Community Outreach Partners
Village of Greenport Business Information District – The Village Administration along with the BID recognizes that many of us may be scared, frustrated and/or angry at the current situation in our town and village having to do with COVID-19. One of the many expectations we all have for our local, state and national governments is to provide answers and solutions for catastrophic disruptions such as these.
Click here for more information
CAST – Community Action Southold Town announced on Monday its food pantry will remain open and an Emergency Feed-A-Kid program has been launched during the COVID-19 outbreak.
North Fork Civics – For any non-medical assistance, please contact the civics associations who can connect you with volunteer resources to help you. These volunteer resources will be continuously updated with additional groups.
3/24/20
Southold Town Senior Services Providing Home-Delivered Meals
Please be advised that Southold Town Senior Services is providing home delivered meals for Town residents 60 years of age and older. We are delivering hot meals Monday through Friday to seniors homes and providing frozen meals for the weekend.
We are encouraging seniors to remain at home and reach out to us at 631-298-4460 if they need assistance. Those seniors needing help with shopping or medication pick up may call Denis Noncarrow, Government Liaison at 631-765-5806.
3/24/20
Stony Brook Medicine COVID-19 Briefing Update: Procedures, 3-D Printed Face Shields
New Safety Procedure
In order to reduce the amount of times that a caregiver must enter a room, a new process has gone into effect. Please note that this process is best suited for the ICU or where a patient is non ambulatory. This initiative is being used in other hospitals and is being used successfully here.
IV pumps in use can be located in the hall. Power strips known as Relocatable Power Taps, approved by Biomedical Engineering (BME), and IV extension sets can be used together to reach the patient.
This new process will eliminate the need for staff to go in the room to change IV fluids/drips/meds or to reset alarms, limiting exposure while interacting with possible (PUI) and known COVID-19 patients.
Tubing is standard bore and can be used for all fluids including blood.
IV extension sets (34”) Lawson 01757 can be connected together to reach the patient (3 sets often works).
IV pumps in use can be located in the hall or anteroom.
72” IV extension sets have been ordered and will work by itself in most cases to reach the patient
SBU Lab Manufacturing Face Shields Using 3-D Printers
As New York is battling COVID-19, the potential shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) for hospital personnel and testing site staff has been thrust into the spotlight. Now, Stony Brook University’s iCREATE lab has stepped up to help, deploying its resources to manufacture face shields through the use of its 3-D printers.
The face shields, explain Charlie McMahon, Interim Senior Vice President and Enterprise CIO for Stony Brook University, are medically compliant, as they have been reviewed by Stony Brook University Hospital personnel.
Additionally, the team at iCREATE has designed certain parts of these face shields to be replaceable so that medical personnel can change them out, allowing for a more sanitized product.
With current supplies, iCREATE is intending to make 800 face shields, and is currently in the process of procuring enough supplies to make up to 5,000 products.
3/24/20
Southold Town Community Response Outreach
The Town of Southold is working to make sure the needs of its residents are met during these unprecedented times.
“We are working in conjunction with officials and agencies from State and County government as well as with Community organizations to address the needs of our residents” said Denis Noncarrow, Government Liaison Officer for Town. If you have questions, are in need of services, or would like to volunteer or donate items, please contact Mr. Noncarrow at 631-765-5806 or denisn@southoldtownny.gov.
The Town is particularly focused on the needs of our seniors. Karen McLaughlin, the Town’s Director of Human Resources and Senior Center stated that “Southold Town Senior Services is providing home delivered meals for Town residents 60 years of age and older. We are delivering hot meals Monday through Friday to senior’s homes and providing frozen meals for the weekend.”
Ms. McLaughlin is encouraging seniors to remain at home and contact Senior Services if they need assistance at 631-298-4460 or karenm@southoldtownny.gov. Those seniors needing help with shopping or medication pick up may call Denis Noncarrow, Government Liaison Officer at 631-765-5806.
“The Town of Southold has been especially hard hit by the COVID-19 virus, but we will get through this, together” said Deputy Supervisor Jill Doherty. “We are at our best when we come to together in times of crisis. Each of us can all do our part by checking in with our neighbors, especially the elderly, to make sure they are okay, by telephone, email and social media.”
On behalf of Supervisor Russell and the Town Board, Deputy Supervisor Doherty urges all residents to remain at home as much as possible and for those essential business that remain open, to continue to use best practices.
Please go to the Town’s website at www.southoldtown.gov regularly and click on the “COVID-19 Virus Alert” tab at the top of the page for updated information.
3/24/20
East End Arts Offers Remote Private Music Lessons
East End Arts is offering remote private music lessons: Learn piano, violin, cello, guitar, trumpet, sax and vocals.
As we move forward with our online instruction, we are happy and ready to take on new students!
Now that the kids are home and getting comfortable with online learning, it may be the perfect time to fit in that lesson that you have been putting off, because of complex scheduling.
East End Arts is up and running with its online lessons and our teachers are offering flexible platforms that work on multiple devices. Below please find a list of our teachers along with the instruments they teach. If you are interested in adding one or more lessons, please email EEA at; education@eastendarts.org.
Please refrain from calling, as the physical school building is closed, and we don’t want to miss your request! Remember we teach adults, too!
3/24/20
Southold Town Altered Police Department Response Policy
In light of the current conditions associated with the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Southold Town Police Department has altered our responses to complaints from residents of our community. For most non-emergency calls or incidents that do not require an immediate response from our Department, continue to call 631-765-2600 and officers will be handling calls and completing reports via telephone from our Headquarters. Obviously, we will still be responding to all emergency calls and requests for assistance as received. We ask the public’s patience during this unprecedented national health crisis, and although it contradicts our Department’s goal of community policing, it is necessary for now to maintain a healthy, responsive police department.
Authority: Chief Martin Flatley Southold Town Police Department
3/23/20
Perlman Music Program Offers Virtual Concerts
Perlman Music Program is offering weekly Virtual Concerts. Enjoy their program’s young artists as they perform classical masterworks from their various locations around the world.
Next performance takes place Wednesday March 25 at 6 p.m. Visit www.perlmanmusicprogram.org for details.
3/23/20
Southampton Town Launches All Seniors Assistance Program
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has clearly identified those over 60 as highly vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus.
Southampton Town has launched a new FREE delivery service for seniors during this time of critical need and self-quarantining so that our seniors can better comply with the best precaution to protect themselves—Stay Home, Stay Safe.
This program, All Seniors Assistance Program – ASAP, has enlisted the support of local merchants who will accept prepaid phone orders for groceries, pharmacy needs and other essentials. The Town will deliver those orders to our seniors at NO COST.
CALL 631-702-1777 OR CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP
3/23/20
Parrish Art Museum Offers Online Art Programs
The Education Department of the Parrish Art Museum has created Parrish Home Art Studios, a new online interactive art program for families and children. Every Tuesday the Museum will announce the upcoming program of six daily activities, inspired by works in the Parrish collection, and make lesson plans available at parrishart.org. These projects, using common materials readily available in most homes, can be done as individual or large collaborative works, and participants may share their creations on Instagram, #ParrishHomeArtStudios.
“If your family has enjoyed art workshops or Open Studios in the Museum, you’ll love our weekly guides to art activities for six days of the week,” said Assistant Education Director Jillian Bock. “Doors open or closed, we’re here for the community with inspiring, creative ways to experience and make art.”
The lesson plans are developed by the Museum’s education team, drawing from decades of experience teaching and working with thousands of children. Any member of the community is welcome to download the program guides available on the Parrish website at https://parrishart.org/education/parrish-home-art-studios/. All projects will remain on the site, creating an archive of art activities.
Parrish Home Art Studios kicked off last week with a 2-part project that began with creating a collage color wheel from magazine clippings or colored paper, glue, and scissors (optional). In part 2, participants pulled swatches from the color wheel to recreate a painting (the guide includes images of suggested artwork). In the next project, Experimental Printmaking, students may explore the different types of lines, shapes, and textures that can be created without a paintbrush, with materials such as plastic cups, cans, and bottle caps. The lesson plans always offer alternative materials. All projects will remain on the site, creating an archive of art activities
3/23/20
Southampton History Museum Cancels All April Events
We regret to inform you that all of April’s programs at the Southampton History Museum have been canceled due to circumstances regarding COVID-19.
Our focus at this current time is to keep our community safe and healthy. We’re remaining optimistic that programs will resume in the upcoming months.
In the meantime we are working on creating new content to keep you all engaged with us at a distance. If you have any suggestions for things you would like to see please feel free to send an email to cflanagan@southamptonhistory.org to share your ideas.
Thanks and stay safe everyone!
3/23/20
Southold Town Waste Facility Update
As of Monday, March 23, 2020 fees will be waived for the disposal of brush at the Southold Transfer Station. All vehicles must enter and exit over the scales, stop and wait for staff to wave through. For the protection of the staff and public, no direct contact will be required. Mulch and wood chips will be available Monday through Friday at no charge. All traffic will be directed once in the brush area, to ensure proper distancing for the safety of the public and staff. Please follow directions when entering.
Authority: Chief Martin Flatley
Southold Town Police Department
3/23/20
Op-Ed by Congressman Lee Zeldin
The Fight Against Coronavirus
New York is the state hardest hit in the country by the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, and containing its spread and combatting this outbreak must continue to be a whole-government, top-to-bottom approach.
On the national level, the federal government has taken unprecedented steps to ensure that travelers do not spread the virus in the United States, including travel restrictions from highly affected countries, and has declared a public health emergency that has allowed for the utilization of reserve funding to help support response efforts.
Last week, the Families First Coronavirus Act was signed into law, which, in addition to providing free coronavirus testing and paid sick leave, also provides family leave for caregivers, food assistance for the needy and enhanced unemployment insurance.
The federal government is also wielding the power of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which is now authorized to build 4 temporary hospitals in New York, including at SUNY Stony Brook and SUNY Old Westbury. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is also committing its resources to utilizing the Javits Center in New York City to assist area hospitals in increasing patient capacity.
In addition to taking new steps to ensure medical professionals have the tools they need to confront any outbreak of the coronavirus, including expediting the availability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), the federal government is working to expedite the development of a vaccine, therapeutics and monoclonal antibodies that can be used both to protect from infection and treat people already infected.
This is no time to play politics, and, on Long Island, every level of government is committed to working together. The first drive-thru, free testing center in Suffolk County is open at Stony Brook University, featuring six lanes to accommodate up to 1,000 tests per day. The site is open 7 days a week from 7am to 7pm. To schedule an appointment, call 888-364-3065. A doctor’s prescription is not required. If you cannot travel to Stony Brook, please contact your medical provider, because additional testing options are now available throughout our Congressional District.
All across our District, Long Islanders are coming together. Small businesses are donating meals to senior centers and those who cannot leave their homes. Organizations like Island Harvest and Long Island Cares are teaming up with school districts across Long Island to put together Grab & Go Meal Distributions at local schools. The United States Postal Service continues to deliver mail, vital prescriptions and more. Truck drivers, grocery store workers, and farmers continue to ensure the healthy and abundant availability of a strong food supply chain.
We are New Yorkers, and there’s no doubt we will emerge stronger than ever, but when this outbreak is over we must ensure that our way of life has been preserved to the best extent possible.
That’s why it was critical that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) issued an emergency declaration last week making Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to small businesses and private, non-profit organizations in the State of New York, including Suffolk County.
The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loans offer up to $2 million in assistance per small business and can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue. These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that can’t be paid due to the disaster’s impact. For more information, visit disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.
Last week, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced that the tax filing and payment deadlines were extended from April 15 to July 15 without penalty or interest for the delay.
In addition to waiving interest on federal student loans, the federal government has also announced a 60-day payment deferment for student loans, for all those who are currently in repayment, a critical step especially in the midst of such uncertainty. For more information, including how to contact your student loan provider, visit studentaid.gov.
The ongoing outbreak of coronavirus is an ever-evolving situation and there’s no doubt we can and will do more to rise to meet this challenge. I look forward to continuing to work with all of you to make it through this challenging time for our community, state and nation.
Congressman Lee Zeldin represents New York’s First Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives where he serves as a member of the bipartisan Congressional Coronavirus Task Force.
3/23/20
Message from Riverhead Chamber Commerce
The Riverhead Chamber of Commerce has set up a registration page in order to mobilize volunteers when needed. If you are asymptomatic; not under quarantine; have access to a vehicle and are willing to help, please register with your contact information in the link below. We will be working closely with Supervisor Yvette Aguiar and the Town of Riverhead as they implement a Community Outreach Program. The initial focus will be setting up a buddy system to reduce exposure in order to get food and essential item to seniors.
Volunteer Registry Sign Up
We will get through this. Please reach out if you are in need of assistance
3/23/20
Message from GameStop
To Our Valued Guests,
Over the last week, you’ve continued visiting our stores to purchase the entertainment and connectivity products and devices that are enabling you to find some degree of normalcy in these very trying times. We thank you for your continued loyalty to GameStop and your trust in us to deliver the products that you need. With customer and employee safety as our paramount concern, we’re announcing a new way of making our stores and our wide array of gaming, accessories and collectibles products accessible to you during this time.
New Store Pickup Procedure: Delivery@Door
Beginning today, Sunday, March 22, only employees will be allowed inside our stores. To continue to serve you from these locations, we are offering a contactless delivery service called Delivery@Door at all store locations across the country where state or local laws allow. The process is simple – just go online via GameStop.com or the GameStop App to place your order and simply select the pick up option for your local store. Your order confirmation email will contain additional instructions, including a notice when your order is ready and the phone number of the store. Just call when you arrive and one of our associates will meet you at the door with your product. Of course, you can also continue having items delivered to your doorstep also through GameStop.com or the GameStop mobile app. If, for any reason, you were unable to order your products in advance and the product is in stock in the store, one of our associates can also assist you while you remain in your car. Credit Card chip only transactions can be processed onsite.
While we are operating under Delivery@Door protocols, we will not be able to accept returns and exchanges. We will, however, be adjusting our exchange and return policy to allow you more time to return recent purchases once our stores are fully reopened. Finally, in order to ensure your and our associates utmost safety, we have temporarily suspended our product-trade-in service. Please make note that we have reduced our store operational hours to 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Our Associates
It is important to take a moment to recognize the unending commitment and efforts of our store associates during this time. They are truly passionate about the service they provide our customers and the gaming community. All U.S. GameStop employees have been ensured that they do not have to work if they are not comfortable, or need to stay home to care for a family member. They have also been instructed to stay home if they feel sick or in any way they may have been exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19. GameStop will pay all U.S. employees impacted by this an additional two weeks at their regular pay.
We thank you again for your patience and loyalty and look forward to continuing to provide you with the gaming, entertainment, and connectivity products you require to stay virtually connected while at home.
3/22/20
Message from Stony Brook University: Donation Drive
MEDIA ADVISORY
Coronavirus Update: Stony Brook Now Accepting Personal Protective Equipment Donations
In order to stay ahead of the demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) during the current COVID-19 outbreak, Stony Brook University is hosting a donation drive, accepting donations in-person and via mail.
Stony Brook University will be collecting donations of personal protective equipment (PPE) which will be given to Stony Brook University Hospital. The university is currently accepting PPE donations that include face shields, N95 3M 1860 masks, protective eyewear, goggles, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer and other supplies required for staff safety. The PPE will then be distributed to medical personnel to use while interacting with possible (PUI) and known COVID-19 patients.
Many neighbors and community groups have asked about making cards to let the medical staff who are working around the clock know they are thinking of them. The easiest and most effective way to share your sentiments is through a simple cell phone video. If you would like to send a message of support, please email a video no longer than 20 seconds to Joan.Dickinson@stonybrook.edu. The videos will be shared throughout the hospital areas and visible as the employees move throughout their day.
We also have residents at the Long Island State Veterans Home who are missing their families but can’t have visitors because they are in a high-risk group. If you would like to send a veteran a message, please email a video no longer than 20 seconds to Jonathan Spier, LISVH Deputy Executive Director, at jonathan.spier@LISVH.org and your message will be shared on the digital boards in their facility.
If members of the community have medical supplies or comfort care items to donate, they should contact Joan Dickinson, Stony Brook University Community Relations Director, at Joan.Dickinson@stonybrook.edu or at 631-219-0603 so a drop off time and location can be arranged and donations put into the right hands quickly.
Editor’s Note: As we need to be diligent about social distancing and the safety of all involved, scheduled appointments are the most efficient and safest way to go for all involved.
3/22/20
Message from Behind the Fence Gallery
Dear Customers,
We want to assure you that we take the health and well-being of our community, customers, and associates very seriously. Like you, we’re closely monitoring the quickly developing effects of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, we will practice social distancing. We have temporarily closed our showroom to protect and care for those who work with us, our customers, and the public.
We will miss seeing you in our showroom, but we’re still open online 24/7, where service remains uninterrupted. We can arrange direct curbside local deliveries and/or ship directly to you for your convenience. Please keep connected with us on our social channels to stay updated on the latest fun statues arriving soon!
We are all in this together. We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and will follow guidance from public health officials and government agencies, so we can continue to support our customers and local communities as needed.
Be Well ~ Stay Safe,
BTFG Crew
Behind The Fence Gallery
631-283-5591
3/22/20
Message from Stevenson’s Toys
As of now, Sunday, March 22nd is the last day we will be allowed to be open.
I’d argue that with kids at home and nothing to do, toy stores might be even more essential than liquor stores, but Governor Cuomo isn’t buying it!
Our website, www.stevensonstoys.com, will be functioning and we can ship anything you see in stock on our site. Our website is connected directly to our inventory so if it says we have something, we do.
We will also be answering the phone when possible and checking messages on our answering machine.
Thanks to all our incredible employees and especially Manager Michael Fellingham for helping us stay open these last weeks of the crisis.
No one knows how long this will last, how much worse it will get, or what the world will look like when it’s over. We hope to see you and your kids again in person whenever that is! Thanks for your continued support and friendship!
Prayers for everyone – stay safe and healthy!
3/21/20
Message from NY Marine Rescue Center
During this time, the NY Marine Rescue Center is asking for your support.
Please click the “donate today” button below to support our GoFundMe campaign.
3/21/20
Message from Rogers Memorial Library
Dear Rogers Memorial Library Patrons,
As you know, the library is currently closed through Sunday, March 29th. We do not know what will happen after that date but will do our best to update you through emails like these, our website, Facebook and Instagram. During our shutdown please visit our web-page www.myrml.org to learn about all the services you can get from home. You will need a library card for most of these services but if you don’t have one, please click here to get one online, it’s that simple!
https://search.livebrary.com/selfreg
The library staff are working hard at creating ways to stay connected to our community and to offer services remotely, so please stay tuned!
We miss you and hope you are safe!
3/21/20
Message from Parrish Art Museum
Dear Members and Friends,
The world is a new place today as we face the COVID-19 crisis and all of its consequences. We hope that you are finding ways to manage through this challenging time, remain healthy, and keep a positive outlook. Although the Parrish Art Museum cannot offer a physical space for solace during these times, we can offer a multitude of online resources to divert and even fascinate you, in the safety of your own home, allowing the Parrish to continue to be the place for inspiration, connection, and comfort that you know so well.
During our temporary closure we continue to incur operating expenses that are not being offset by the revenue we anticipated and that is why we are writing to all of our friends, both new and old, in an effort to help the Museum ride out this difficult period and continue to be an invaluable resource. Your support will help ensure that the Parrish will continue to be a place where art and community come together to feed our souls and raise our spirits.
Please make a contribution today to help secure the future of the Parrish here.
Any gift, regardless of its size, will help our effort and send a valuable message about your belief in the importance of what the arts can offer us, in good times and bad.
Thank you for your support. Now, please take a moment for yourself to be inspired, uplifted, and connected to the Parrish, as we hope you will always remain. Visit parrishart.org. With a spirit of sharing and unity we will all get through this together.
Warm and grateful regards,
Mary Frank
President and Interim Chair
Terrie Sultan
Director
3/21/20
Message from Best Buy
To Our Customers,
Across the country these past several days, you have come to our stores to buy the technology and household necessities that are so valuable at a time like this. We remain determined to continue to serve you and are announcing today a new way of making our stores accessible while even further enhancing customer and employee safety.
In our stores
Beginning Sunday, March 22, we will offer contactless curbside service at all locations across the country where state or local laws allow. Rather than ask you to come into our stores, any items you order on BestBuy.com or the Best Buy app will be delivered to your car curbside. If, for any reason, you didn’t order the product in advance and the product is in stock in the store, one of our employees will be more than happy to go get it in the store and sell it to you while you remain in your car. This service also extends to returns and exchanges, the period for which has been extended on most products so that you have more time. Only employees will be allowed in the store, but we are determined to serve you as fully as we can. Unfortunately, we are temporarily unable to continue our product trade-in and recycling services.
For those who want to continue shopping with us online or on the app, we will, of course, still get you what you want.
In your home
As you know, Best Buy works in millions of customer homes each year, and we have long been proud of the services we provide. Because of the increased concern for you, your families and our employees, we have made the decision to suspend currently scheduled installations, haul-aways or repairs for large items like refrigerators, freezers, washers, dryers and TVs.
Beginning Monday, March 23, we will no longer deliver these large products into your home and will, instead, offer free doorstep delivery. This means we will take the item as close as we possibly can to the front door of your home without bringing it inside. We know that this change will be inconvenient, and we are truly sorry. It was made with our employees’ and your best interests at heart. If you have an order scheduled for installation in the next 30 days, please expect an email or text from Best Buy about your delivery options.
Employees
Speaking of our employees, everyone working right now is doing so on a voluntary basis, and all hourly employees who volunteer are receiving a temporary pay increase. Additionally, anyone feeling sick is told to stay home, and they will be paid for that time. Finally, anyone exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19 is also told to stay home, with pay, and we are paying employees who may need to stay home to care for their children.
All of us at Best Buy are grateful that so many states and localities believe we are an essential business, allowing us to continue to serve you when you need it most. We thank you for your patience and loyalty and look forward to continuing to provide you with the technology and home essentials you require to stay connected and work and learn from home. Thank you.
3/20/20
Message from Southold Town
Request for Extension of Property Taxes
Supervisor Russell has announced that he is contacting State officials requesting an extension of the deadline to pay property taxes due prior to June 1st for no less than 45 days and a waiver of all fees and penalties. “These are difficult times, both emotionally and financially and we need to take action to remove what burdens we can.”
3/20/20
Message from True Value Hardware
We’re One Community. One Family.
At True Value®, we’re more than just a hardware store; we’re a part of your community. A place that you can call home. Where you can go to find necessities for everyday living, products to tackle that next big DIY project and expert advice.
We’re a business of relationships, not transactions. We’re locally owned and operated and our community is our top priority.
During these unprecedented times, we believe in the power of community. That’s why we’re doing everything we can to ensure that you have what you need so that our community comes out stronger, and together, we thrive.
FIND YOUR LOCAL TRUE VALUE STORES HERE
3/20/20
Message from Guild Hall
Dear Friends,
Ingenuity, spontaneity, and disruptive thinking come naturally to artists and we’ve witnessed an unprecedented amount of creativity in the last week. These artistic expressions are more than diversions—they keep us together when the normal order of life is interrupted.
Guild Hall will continue to promote the creativity in all of us through online programs and live activities, but for the safety of our community, the physical space of The John Drew Theater, the Guild Hall Museum, and our Classroom will remain closed through May 31, 2020.
We are working with the many talented artists associated with Guild Hall to provide you with experiences to be enjoyed from home. We are also in the midst of an effort to put the 400 works in the 82nd Artist Members Exhibition online for you to view remotely.
Most of you have interacted with our wonderful staff, and they are attending to their duties from home. We are available nearly around the clock via email. Please feel free to reach out to Executive Director, Andrea Grover at agrover@guildhall.org, or to the man behind the social media curtain, Joe Brondo at jbrondo@guildhall.org. A full directory of Guild Hall staff contacts can be found here: https://www.guildhall.org/about/staff.
We want to hear from you. Tell us how you’re doing, and what we can do for you.
Sincerely,
Andrea Grover
Executive Director
Jeannine Dyner
Deputy Director
3/20/20
Message from SCOPE
SCOPE offers free child care services to first responders, health care workers, and essential services personnel
SCOPE Education Services is now offering free school-age child care services to children of first responders, medical personnel and essential services personnel in both Nassau and Suffolk counties.
School-age child care services will be provided Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. for children ages 4-12 in grades Pre-K-6. While some programs have already started, the remaining programs will begin on Monday, March 23.
Families, in need of child care services and meeting the criteria of first responders, medical personnel and essential services personnel, must register before bringing children to participate in this program. Registration is first come first served. Children residing within these school districts will be given priority. Children residing outside of these school districts may also attend these programs. Additional locations may be added at a later date. To register visit the SCOPE Education Services website at www.scopeonline.us.
“SCOPE is pleased to be able to provide this much needed service to those who are serving on the front lines during this health crisis,” stated SCOPE Executive Director/CEO George Duffy. “Knowing their children are being cared for in a safe and welcoming environment provides the peace of mind needed while they are working.”
School-Age Child Care Services in Suffolk County
Programs are offered in the following school districts: Babylon, Commack, Connetquot, Deer Park, Harborfields, Hauppauge, Huntington, Lindenhurst, Middle Country, Miller Place, Northport/East Northport and Sachem.
This program was developed in collaboration with the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association, Eastern Suffolk BOCES, Western Suffolk BOCES, and the Suffolk County Executive’s office.
School-Age Child Care Services in Nassau County
Programs are offered in the following school districts: East Meadow, Garden City, Island Trees, Syosset, Uniondale and Wantagh.
This program was developed in collaboration with the Nassau County Council of School Superintendents and Nassau BOCES.
For more information, visit www.scopeonline.us.
3/20/20
Message from Southold Town
Supervisor Russell along with the Southold Town Economic Development Committee has announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration has released the application for a SBA loan. It is advised that you apply after business hours as the site is very busy and start gathering the paperwork they will be asking for.
3/20/20
Message from Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone
To reach business recovery unit, call 311 or contact business.recovery@suffolkcountyny.gov.
For more information on resources available for employers in Suffolk County, visit county website here.
Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone today announced the launch of the Business Recovery Unit, a key component of the County’s Business Response Plan, to address the concerns and questions that businesses have amid the coronavirus outbreak.
There are currently a number of Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs employees dedicated to the Business Recovery Unit to address questions and to track the data and information provided by local businesses, and additional staff will be added on an as needed basis. Local businesses can call Suffolk 311 to be connected to the unit, email business.recovery@suffolkcountyny.gov, or visit the newly created webpage. The webpage includes a comprehensive survey for local businesses to complete.
“Last week, I directed the Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning to work with our Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs to develop a Business Response Plan to help identify employer concerns,” said County Executive Bellone. “We are entering unprecedented territory, but are committed to doing everything possible to support our local businesses and provide guidance as the situation continues to evolve.”
On Tuesday, the County Executive held a conference call with local business leaders and stakeholders to identify employer concerns and needs. The Suffolk County Department of Economic Development and Planning is working with the Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs to develop a business response plan. The goal of the plan is to address current and evolving needs, which vary depending on the size and scope of the business—while simultaneously building a response and post-event recovery plan. The plan will provide information that would assist employers in responding to this event and who have incurred economic hardship as a result of the coronavirus.
The County Executive announced that as part of this effort, the county will be putting together a working group of stakeholders with representation from numerous industry sectors and business groups.
While the county is currently in the discovery phase of this plan, the Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs is in the process of collecting data from businesses to determine what is happening with the private sector workforce. As part of this data collection, the department will create a real time dashboard to provide information to the County Department of Economic Development and Planning so that it can determine the needs of local businesses and what specific types of resources to advocate at the federal and state levels.
3/20/20
Message from Suffolk County Historical Society Museum
CALENDAR OF EVENTS: MUSEUM CLOSURE & COVID-19 UPDATE
The Suffolk County Historical Society Museum will remain closed based on the closure order issued today by NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo in response to the COVID-19 crisis. We are also suspending all upcoming events at this time, and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
The health and safety of our visitors, members, and staff remain the Suffolk County Historical Society’s priority. Every day brings new developments related to the virus, and we understand that uncertainty can be unsettling. Our thoughts are with the entire Suffolk County and Long Island communities and with all who have been impacted by COVID-19.
During our closure, we invite the Long Island community to visit our website for updates and special offerings, including a free subscription to our historic Photo of the Week series and our Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube content: www.SuffolkCountyHistoricalSociety.org
From all of us at the Suffolk County Historical Society Museum, thank you for your continued support through these uncertain times. Stay tuned, and stay safe!
3/19/20
Baldor Specialty Foods Opens Home Delivery Service
In an unprecedented move for a wholesaler, Baldor Specialty Foods has decided to open up ordering and home delivery directly to consumers within a 50 mile radius and all of Long Island, including the Hamptons. (this is new as of today) This comes on the heels of the food crisis hitting hard across the area – from restaurants and bars to consumers not actually being able to get their hands on the food and supplies they need for their families,
Baldor Specialty Foods, one of the largest wholesale importers and distributors of fresh produce and specialty foods in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, announced today that for the first time in its history, it will make its vast inventory of food available directly to consumers within a 50-mile radius of its Bronx, NY headquarters for at-home delivery.
The goal of the new consumer service is to help alleviate grocery store food shortages and provide a convenient delivery service for consumers staying put at home. With a minimum order of $250 (tax and delivery included), Baldor is opening access for consumers to purchase the foods they need the most including fresh produce, meat and poultry, dairy and other food staples, so they can avoid running out to the store and potentially exposing themselves to the virus. The service will be available until the end of this health crisis.
It’s an unprecedented move for the 28-year-old wholesaler, which has served restaurants and food service establishments exclusively up to this point. The company plans to leverage the combined power of its robust e-commerce site, large fleet of trucks, army of drivers, food processing facility, as well as its large network of farms and specialty food vendors to serve consumers.
Starting today, Baldor’s e-commerce site will make its vast inventory available to the 18.5 million people who live in the zip codes within a 50-mile radius of Baldor’s headquarters in the Bronx. Orders made before midnight will be delivered the next day.
“At its heart, Baldor has always been about family and community,” said Baldor’s CEO, TJ Murphy. “With a state-of-the-art food distribution chain already in place, it only makes sense to put it to good use, delivering our high-quality produce and specialty items to the consumers staying at home, doing their part to thwart the pandemic by practicing social distancing and isolation.”
It’s an historic first for the iconic food distributor, who has already had initial success selling its consumer brand, Urban Roots at the retail level. Now, with today’s move, consumers within the Baldor service area will temporarily be able to place orders and enjoy convenient next-day, at-home delivery, fulfilled by Baldor’s team of professional delivery associates. Those associates will make the home deliveries while on route to and from the local restaurants and food service establishments they continue to service.
“We have never considered doing this before, Said Murphy. “But in times of crisis, everything must be put on the table and considered. Our main priority is to provide food to the communities we serve – and we will do whatever it takes to make that happen.”
To sign up for this temporary service go to http://www.baldorfood.com.
3/19/20
Message to Guild Hall Members
Guild Hall has never been a typical arts organization. Founded as a civic space in 1931, our mission has always been to use the arts to connect our community. Now, this extraordinary time presents us with special challenges.
Our hearts go out to you and everyone affected by the COVID-19 pandemic around the world. The world is different for us all right now. Though we have closed our Museum, Theater, and Educational spaces, we have shifted to being in touch virtually through online communications and programming. We are doing all we can to maintain our presence in the lives of our friends and neighbors.
Guild Hall is no stranger to challenges, and with the love of our community, we’ve served three generations. We opened our doors during the Great Depression, and have operated continuously through economic ups and downs, the hurricane of 1938, WWII, and times of profound loss.
But a pandemic is not something we’ve experienced in these 89 years. This is the first time we have been unable to support the community by keeping our doors open and presenting the programs and exhibitions that we have always done. In the past, coming to the John Drew Theater has been a source of refuge for a community under stress, and we have taken joy in welcoming people to Guild Hall.
Now, of course, that is not possible. Our financial survival is dependent on ticket sales and the rental of our wonderful facilities, sources of income that have completely disappeared for the time being. Like so many local businesses and nonprofits, we have a lot of people relying on us for their livelihoods. We employ 56 people and pay for the services of over 50 small businesses, including newspapers, restaurants, hotels, freelance writers, designers, and photographers. And for many lifelong members, their touchstone for culture and friendship is Guild Hall.
In these unprecedented times, we are asking the community to rally. Please make a contribution today to ensure the future of Guild Hall at https://give.guildhall.org/donate
Fundamental to Guild Hall’s founding remains the belief that the arts nourish the roots of our society, connect us, and provide an antidote to troubled times. If you share these values, please show your support. We can’t invite you to come inside our doors today—but you can help us assure that our doors will reopen and Guild Hall will continue to serve the community when this difficult time comes to an end.
Sincerely,
Eric Fischl
President, Academy of the Arts
Andrea Grover
Executive Director
Marty Cohen
Chairman
3/19/20
Message Union Burger Bar: Open for Takeout
Dear Union Friends and Family,
As most of you have heard by now, all restaurants in the Tri-State area have been government-mandated to close our doors for an indefinite period of time. We are anticipating this period to be anywhere north of the next 5 weeks. That mandate, however, does not apply to the service of food and beverage in a To Go, Delivery or Catering capacity. So, with that in mind, it is our intention to continue serving the best Burgers, Fries & Shakes on the east end for all of our devoted Union fans. Our hours of operation will be from 12 noon until 9 pm every day of the week. Pick up and Catering orders are available by calling us directly at 631-377-3323 and for delivery via Uber Eats or Grub-hub. For office luncheons and larger family dinners – please reach out to us directly and we will be more than happy to customize menus and make deliveries to your location.
We are also aware that many of you had larger social gatherings planned in the coming months that have been forced to postpone or even worse cancel. Please allow us to help. We are not limited to the confines of our Union Burger Bar menu. Should you be looking to host small private events, we are happy to help and provide you with all of your food and beverage needs. That, by the way, could include alcohol as the state has afforded us some flexibility on this during this difficult time.
All of that being said, please know that all of you are in our hearts and prayers. Stay positive, stay safe and please try to help someone less fortunate. That is how we can all get through this, together.
Best wishes,
Ian Duke and the Entire Team at Union
3/19/20
Message MM Fine Art
In light of the current health crisis, the gallery is open by private appointment only. In the meanwhile we hope to keep you updated and inspired via emails, online digital catalogs, 1st Dibs, and frequent Instagram and Facebook posts. If you would like to schedule an appointment or request information, contact us via email info@mmfineart.com.
We wish you good health and look forward to seeing you again in Southampton soon!
3/19/20
Message from Parrish Art Museum: Home Studios Program
Introducing Parrish Home Art Studios!
Fun, interactive art activities for families
If your family has enjoyed art workshops or Open Studios in the Museum, they’ll love our weekly guides to art activities for every day, using materials you already have in your home!
On Day 1 of our 2-day Collage with Recycled Papers project, dive into all the colors of the rainbow by creating a collage color wheel. On Day 2, create your own collage interpretation of a painting from our collection. Look closely, make a sketch, and have fun choosing swatches from your color wheel to recreate the painting.
This is just the first of our weekly Home Art Studio Guides. You can expect a new plan every week!
The Parrish is your Museum. Doors open or closed, we’re here for you with inspiring, creative ways to see and make art.
3/19/20
Message from Topping Rose House
Master of the House
Our bar and dining room are closed, however we continue to serve meals to our hotel guests via room service. Breakfast remains available to hotel guests each day and other meals can be ordered by telephoning the Front Desk with service available until 8pm.
We are still accepting room reservations. Those needing to escape the city or find comfort in knowing our kitchen is available to them can see which rooms are still available on our website. Here is the Room Service Menu that has been created for our guests.
As we go forward in the days and weeks to come, we look to the government and medical authorities for direction. Our team is taking every precaution to provide a safe and clean environment for all of our guests and employees.
Topping Rose House would also like to thank all of the public servants and medical workers who are working endlessly to keep us all safe. The entire community is safer due to each of you.
We will provide updates periodically as the situation evolves.
3/19/20
Message from Bridgehampton Child Care & Recreational Center
A letter from our Executive Director, Bonnie Michelle Cannon
The Center kids are out of school and at home, but our staff are working. The entire country has been rocked by the shut-downs, our kids and families are economically fragile, many barely living pay check to pay check. This is a CRISIS and we need your help to support The Center’s call to action plan
I have personally contacted each of our After-School families, all but 2, are in need of food, 17 have already lost their incomes and more will come, depending on the length of the crisis. We are mobilizing our food pantry to provide food for each family in need. Our school law enforcement officer has offered to help with the shopping.
We need financial support.
The Center has set up on-line learning with ZOOM starting today for 4 hours, every afternoon, to help prevent the gap in learning from widening even more, and to keep our kids active. It will alternate with math, reading, affirmations and movement in 20-minute segments. We are not giving up on our goal to help our kids be the best that they can be, and to stay positive.
Altice has offered free internet for 60 days to each of our families in need, that is 7 of our families, 11 children. 18 of our kids have no computer at home. They need computers.
I will be assessing the needs of our teens and college student families next and then, on to our Seniors.
PLEASE help by donating online at www.bhccrc.org. Just click DONATE on the footer of our home page, send a check to: BHCCRC/ P. O. Box 1197/ Bridgehampton, NY 11932 or contact Deb McEneaney with CC info, 917-741-6257 mcsanzo@hopeworksltd.com.
Thank you for caring about our kids and families. Please Help and Stay Safe.
Peace and Blessings, Bonnie
3/19/20
Update from Southold Town: En Espanol
Enfermedad del Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19)
Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC) están vigilando de cerca un brote de enfermedad respiratoria causada por un nuevo coronavirus que se identificó por primera vez en Wuhan, en la provincia de Hubei, en China. Esta es una situación emergente que está cambiando rápidamente y los CDC continuarán brindando información actualizada a medida que esté disponible. Los CDC trabajan a toda hora para proteger la salud de las personas. Es función de los CDC preocuparse y actuar rápidamente cada vez que haya un problema potencial para la salud pública. Hay información adicional sobre la respuesta de los CDC al COVID-19 en inglés.
3/19/20
Message from Mark Borghi: Bridgehampton and NYC Galleries Closing
To our valued clients:
As a result of recent coronavirus (COVID-19) developments, we have made the decision to temporarily close the Bridgehampton and New York galleries to the public until further notice. During this time, the gallery will be open for private appointments only.
The safety of our community is the gallery’s utmost priority and we abide by all recommended measures to contain the spread of coronavirus. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
If you need assistance or to schedule a private viewing in Bridgehampton, please contact julia@borghi.org.
3/19/20
Message from Big Lots
Big Lots in Riverhead is offering curbside pickup of items in store.
3/19/20
Message from Best Buy CEO (Store in Riverhead
To Our Customers,
Earlier this week, we announced changes to how Best Buy will run our business in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Against this backdrop, I wanted to share some of my thoughts about what we’re facing and how Best Buy is responding.
Right now, our role as a consumer electronics retailer is rapidly shifting and we are striving to make the best decisions with two goals in mind: The first is to protect our customers, employees and their families. The second is to do the best we can to serve the millions of Americans who are looking to us for increasingly vital technology tools to stay connected, as well as household necessities.
You are turning to us for help getting the technology that allows you to continue running a small business or shift your usual job from an office setting to your home. You are turning to us to help your children continue their education outside of their classroom. And, you are turning to us for necessities that allow you to store and prepare food for your family.
With these needs in mind and given our commitment to keep our employees and customers safe, we are shortening our store hours this week, and on March 23, will begin permitting only a small number of customers into the store at a time so we can enforce the necessary social distancing guidelines. We are also working to enhance our curbside service and strongly recommend you take advantage of this whenever possible.
As for our employees, let me start by saying this: We will not make any employee work if they aren’t comfortable doing so. Further, if an employee is sick or needs to take care of their children home from school, we are paying them. Additionally, with our reduced hours and less staff in the stores, we are paying affected employees for their regularly scheduled hours.
We are in a difficult time and find ourselves in uncharted waters. My best wishes to you and your family as we navigate the days ahead together.
Corie Barry, Chief Executive Officer
Best Buy
3/18/20
Message from Hamptons Observatory
Hi Folks
I’m writing to let you know that, due to COVID-19, all scheduled events
have been canceled until further notice.
While we’re going through a rough time that’s made even more difficult
by having to put greater distance between each other socially, we can
still get close to and experience the wonders that Nature has to offer.
Take a walk in a park, go to the beach, or do some stargazing–it’s a
great way to de-stress. Right now you can see Venus up in the western
sky after sunset. Mercury, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn are visible in the
southeast sky before sunrise. You can also look forward to the Lyrid
Meteor Shower that will occur during the overnight hours, April 21st to
22nd. You don’t need a telescope to view those celestial objects but, if
you do set one up, remember that they, too, can carry germs so, if
you’re sharing, use diluted alcohol or bleach to wipe down the cup
around the eyepiece, knobs, etc. between observers.
As always, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact
me. Meanwhile, all of us at Hamptons Observatory hope you and your loved
ones stay safe and healthy through these troubled times! We’ll look
forward to seeing you in the (hopefully) not too distant future!
All the best,
Donna L. McCormick
Executive Director
www.HamptonsObservatory.org
3/18/20
Southampton Animal Shelter Offers Roadside Adoptions
In light of our recent closure, we’re delighted to introduce “SASF Roadside Adoptions & Fosters”– a program designed to help our pets find their foster and forever homes in a sanitary, social-distance-friendly fashion!
We will meet you curbside to introduce you to our pet(s) and bring all pet supplies directly to you! We will still be implementing interactions for adopters/fosters who already own dogs – all of which can be done outside in a large area in order to limit social interactions and gathering between us humans.
To take part in this program, you MUST fill out an application and be approved. One of our adoption coordinators will contact you for an adoption/foster interview and to discuss your possible matches.
Simply go to our website, pick your forever or foster pet and wait for your phone to ring!
We kindly ask that anyone feeling under the weather, not partake in this program. Please use your best judgment.
Please do not show up to the shelter unannounced – all adoptions/fosters will be done by appointment only.
Thank you for your continued support.❤
Link below to browse our adorable adoptables!
https://southamptonanimalshelter.com/adopt/
3/18/20
Update from Southold Town: Suffolk County Numbers
Updated numbers of positive cases in Suffolk County as of 12:00 pm, 3/18/2020
Babylon – 17
Brookhaven – 20
East Hampton – 2
Huntington – 43
Islip – 23
Riverhead – 2
Shelter Island – 0
Smithtown – 3
Southampton – 3
Southold – 33
Unavailable – 6
Total positive cases in the County – 152
Deceased – 3
Total active cases in County – 149
3/18/20
Message from Save Sag Harbor
SAVE SAG HARBOR is looking for volunteers.
If you are able to help bring groceries, supplies or prescriptions to the elderly or the quarantined, please send your number and email address to info@savesagharbor.com.
We may also need people who are able to bring hot meals to those who are ill or in quarantine.
We will publish an ongoing list in the Save Sag Harbor newsletter alerts and on our website, savesagharbor.com. This will include your name, email address and cell number.
Important:
If you have been exposed to anyone with the virus or have symptoms, please do not volunteer. And even if you are well, please limit any interaction with the person you are helping to correspond to the CDC guidelines. We recommend dropping items off at the person’s gate or door, and ask those receiving items to disinfect with sanitizing wipes. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly.
If you need help, or know of anyone who needs help:
If you are quarantined, elderly or most vulnerable to the Coronavirus and need help obtaining your groceries, supplies, prescriptions, a hot meal or an occasional phone call, please let us know at info@savesagharbor.com.
3/18/20
Message from PSEG
Good evening,
As the head of PSEG Long Island, I want to assure you that we are strongly committed to the health and safety of you, your family, and our employees. I also want you to know that we have the full support of Public Service Enterprise Group, our parent company, as we determine best practices and make the changes necessary to address this evolving public health situation. I’d like to share with you a message from Ralph Izzo, the Chairman, President and CEO of Public Service Enterprise Group, touching on what we’re doing here, today and for however long it takes, to keep delivering safe, reliable electric service and support our communities.
Dan Eichhorn
President and COO, PSEG Long Island
A message from Ralph Izzo regarding the Coronavirus
March 18, 2020
As we all continue to monitor developments regarding the coronavirus, whether from a personal or business perspective, it can become an all-encompassing topic and, for some, perhaps a bit overwhelming.
I want to assure you that PSEG is committed to the health and safety of our customers, our employees and the communities we serve, and I am proud of the planning and preparedness efforts that are taking place across the company aimed at continuing to provide you with the service you need to power daily life.
We know that our customers rely on us to power their lives and businesses. Teams across the company have been working around the clock to ensure we are well prepared to serve the 1.1 million customers across Long Island and the Rockaways.
Specifically, PSEG has taken several steps to protect our customers and our workers:
Temporarily closing our customer offices, while leveraging our enhanced technology platforms to stay connected with customers; Suspending new late payment charges and all disconnections for non-payment, and providing deferred payment and financial assistance options;
Operating according to Centers for Disease Control’s social distancing guidelines; Where we must interact, proactive screening of employees and customers before they interact, and providing workers with personal protective equipment; Directing employees who can work from home to do so; and Temporarily suspending non-critical repair work where feasible.
As the situation evolves, we will continue to be guided by CDC, state and federal guidelines to ensure that we continue to serve you safely and reliably. For the latest information, please visit the PSEG Long Island Coronavirus Update website.
Donations to community food banks
The PSEG Foundation understands that the coronavirus presents a new and unique challenge to those who may already be struggling to meet the needs of their family. To that end, the Foundation is pleased to announce that we are supporting the efforts of Community Food Bank of New Jersey and Island Harvest Food Bank on Long Island, while also seeking new opportunities to help our communities.
In times of crisis, it’s important that we also take time to look after ourselves. Many states and organizations, such as the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, have excellent resources online that include ways to cope with stress and anxiety. I encourage everyone to seek out the resources and support they need.
Know that PSEG is also here to support you and your community. By working together, I am confident we can meet this challenge. We hope you and your families are staying healthy and safe.
Sincerely,
Ralph Izzo
Chairman, President and CEO
3/18/20
Southampton Inn Remains Open to Serve Guests & Community
Against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic and the declaration of a national emergency, the Southampton Inn remains open to care for guests and the wider community. While larger gatherings are currently not possible, people still need somewhere safe to stay, whether construction workers supporting emergency infrastructure projects or families trying to visit loved ones. Housekeeping protocols at the Inn meet the guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The Southampton Inn wants to first reassure you that you can book with confidence. They understand that people are concerned about the evolving situation and, specifically, scheduled overnight stays and future travel plans. To accommodate guests during this time of uncertainty, the Inn will cancel any reservations through April 15, 2020 or will credit your reservations to any available date through March 31, 2021. They are also taking the following steps to accommodate guests:
The Inn is offering a room rate of $149/night (plus taxes and fees) for their available rooms. Sixteen of the rooms are pet-friendly.
Claude’s Restaurant is offering take-out breakfast options daily between 7:00am and 10:00am. The restaurant is currently closed for dinner and Sunday brunch through March 31, 2020, and management is monitoring the evolving guidelines.
Guests are welcome to reserve an extended stay in June, July or August. Prices range from $11,000 – $15,000 per month (subject to change and availability).
Despite the underlying tensions surrounding the outbreak, spring is coming and a welcome breath of fresh air and relaxation awaits at the Southampton Inn. Located in the heart of Long Island’s historic Southampton Village, the Inn is just one mile from gorgeous nationally recognized ocean beaches, hiking and cycling trails.
New this 2020, Claude’s Gallery inaugural exhibition features artwork by Ceravolo & Candice CMC, Charles Ford, Robin Morris and Nickol Renae. Guests can stop by for a tour or call for information about the artists. A well-stocked library provides an ideal place to relax with a book or board game.
Looking ahead, the Southampton Inn currently has a number of events planned starting in May 2020 including:
May 1st – 3rd – 2020 May Day Celebration
May 8th – 10th – Mother’s Day Weekend getaway and brunch
May 9th – The USA Women’s Half Marathon in Southampton Village (pre-race dinner)
May 14th – 17th – What’s New, Southampton Village? (featuring exciting and diverse promotions and events that focus on family fun, history, the arts and recreation – all designed to showcase the Village’s many offerings during one of the most beautiful times of the year).
May 24th – Memorial Day Weekend Summer Kickoff Barbecue
June 12th –14th – Croquet and Rosé starts June 12-14 and continues every Sunday through the summer: $50/couple includes bottle of selected rosé, croquet on the Inn’s lawn and live music.
For reservations or information about stay packages, please call 631-283-6500, email reservations@southamptoninn.com or visit www.southamptoninn.com.
3/18/20
Update from Southold Town
To our business community:
The Supervisor along with the Economic Development Committee is continuing an ongoing Dialogue with State and Federal agencies and will update the business community on any possible assistance as it becomes available. We continue to ask our community to support the local small businesses that are seeing unprecedented challenges at this time.
3/18/20
Message from Suffolk County Historical Society: Closure Announcement
MUSEUM CLOSURE ANNOUNCEMENT – COVID-19 Update
In keeping with other museums across Long Island, the Suffolk County Historical Society Museum will be closed beginning Wednesday, March 18, through Wednesday, April 1, 2020, as we continue to do our part in slowing the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely, and may make further adjustments as needed to ensure the safety of all.
We thank you for your patience through these uncertain times. Stay safe!
SUFFOLK COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
300 West Main St. Riverhead, NY 11901
www.SuffolkCountyHistoricalSociety.org
3/18/20
Message from Shelter Island Historical Society
Dear Neighbors,
Shelter Island Historical Society cares about your health and well-being. The Society is vigilantly monitoring news about the corona virus and following CDC guidelines to help keep you and our staff healthy. At this time, The History Center is closed. However, our staff is working remotely to continue to plan programs and events and provide research services. At this time, we expect to move forward with our major events and Havens Farmers’ Market. While you stay healthy and hunker down you may consider exploring your family history or other interesting Island topics. Email your inquiries to collections@shelterislandhistorical.org and we will get to work to see what our archives may provide. We will continue to monitor the updates about COVID-19 and will let you know when we will re-open. For your convenience the website for the Center for Disease Control is: www.cdc.gov.
Sincerely yours,
Nanette Lawrenson
Executive Director
3/18/20
Message from Target: Adjusted Hours
An Update on How We’re Supporting our Guests and Team, from CEO Brian Cornell
Every day, for weeks now, you’ve turned to Target to stock up on supplies as you cope with the impact of the coronavirus. As we all continue to adapt to the country’s fast-changing needs, we want to make sure we’re doing everything we can to keep our stores open and support our team.
We’ve announced a couple of changes that will go into effect today and last until further notice.
We’ll reduce hours and close all stores by 9 p.m. daily. This will help us as we replenish and deeply clean our stores for our guests. And it builds on measures we shared earlier this month, including enhanced cleaning and more staffing for in-demand services that support social distancing, like Order Pickup and Drive Up.
We’ll also reserve the first hour of shopping each Wednesday to support vulnerable guests, including the elderly and those with underlying health concerns.
In addition to these changes, we’re fast-tracking the flow of products that are in highest demand, including food, medicine and other essentials. We’ll continue to maintain limitations on in-demand items and respectfully ask all guests to consider their immediate needs and purchase accordingly so more families can find the products they need.
Taking care of our team
During this challenging time, I can assure you that the Target team is working hard to be there for you and your families – and we’re doubling down on everything we can to support them.
We recently announced changes to our back-up care benefit , so in the face of school and other care-facility closures, back-up care will be available to all, including frontline team members who are doing so much right now. This comes on top of temporarily waiving our absenteeism policy and covering quarantine and confirmed illness pay. We’ll also continue to offer benefits like paid family leave and free counseling services for the range of challenges our team might be facing.
So much of what we’ve seen over the last few weeks has been heroic, from our dedicated teams working in our stores and supply chain, to the way you and your families have banded together.
As I’ve said from the outset, a commitment to help all families is at the heart of Target’s purpose. Our goal is to be here for you and keep navigating through this uncertainty together – and we will do everything in our power to live up to that promise.
Brian Cornell
Chairman and CEO
For the latest updates on our response to coronavirus, go to Target.com/ABullseyeView.
3/17/20
Updates from Town of Southold
As of today, March 17, 2020, The Suffolk County Dept. of Health has confirmed 28 cases in Southold Town.
The Suffolk County Department of Health is allowing people to make appointments at their Suffolk mobile testing site NOW.
The testing site is still being determined but is expected to come online later this week. Suffolk County residents who want to make an appointment for the test can call now and they will be triaged by a nurse.
Residents can make appointments by calling 1-888-364-3065.
3/17/20
Message from Mashashimuet Park Board President Gregg Schiavoni
CORONAVIRUS- March 17, 2020: Amended State of Emergency Order stipulates that all playgrounds at the Town of Southampton Parks are now closed. The parks remain open, but the playgrounds are closed
3/17/20
Message from Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell
Supervisor Scott Russell met with members of the Town’s Emergency Management team to discuss what changes needed to be made to the normal operations of the Town of Southold in our effort to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Each department was evaluated in the context of our State of Emergency and our efforts to reduce our workforce (and employee exposure) yet, maintain essential functions. Supervisor Russell has ordered the following offices to be fully closed:
Board of Assessors
Planning Department
Board of Trustees
Zoning Board of Appeals
Department of Land Preservation
Town Engineers
GIS Coordination Department
Town Historian
Recreation Department
Department of Solid Waste (office only)
Justice Court
All other Town offices will remain fully- opened or be open on a limited basis with limited staff. These closures went into effect on Monday, March 16, 2020 at 4:00 pm and will remain in effect until further order of Supervisor Russell. All Town buildings will remain closed to the public and people should contact Supervisor Russell’s Office at 631-765-1889 with any questions.
** The Southold Town Transfer Station will remain open and all entry fees for those residents without a permit are waived.
3/16/20
Hamptons Coffee Company Stores Close
In light of the heightened concerns and precautions being taken to avoid the spread of COVID-19, the Hampton Coffee Company has made the tough decision to close all five of our local cafes indefinitely.
One of our main goals at HCC is to always provide a happy gathering place for all of our guests, friends and fans, and we greatly enjoy doing so. While there has been no reported illness amongst our staff, for the safety of our team and surrounding communities, we feel it is best to close temporarily to help prevent the spread of any further illness on the East End.
We urge you all to stay home as much as possible to help keep our communities healthy. To urge you all to do so, we will be offering free* shipping on all hamptoncoffeecompany.com orders, as our Roastery will remain operational.
Enter code STAYHOME at checkout to get free* shipping today.
Thank you in advance for your understanding. Let’s hope that by taking this preventative measure together, we can get back to serving all of your local favorites as soon as possible.
*Free shipping up to $8.50
3/16/20
The Clam Bar Postpones Opening
The Clam Bar will be postponing their opening date due to COVID-19.
3/16/20
East End Weddings & Events Showcase Update
IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
WHAT: Online & Real Wedding & Event Expo
WHEN: Real Showcase: Sunday, April 26, 2020 | 1:00 – 4:00
Online Showcase: Wednesday April 1, – May 5, 2020
WHERE: Breeze Hill Farm & Preserve 31215 County Road – Route 48, Peconic, NY 11958
COST: $0
CONTACT: East End Weddings & Events, Michael Variale, call/text 631.339.0900
Peconic, NY — Are you or someone you know planning a special event? Then head to East End Weddings & Event’s Event Showcase at Breeze Hill Farm & Preserve on Sunday, April 26, from 1:00 – 4:00.
For the health and safety for our guests and vendors, we are implementing additional safety measures that include:
Limiting the attendance to 50 couples.
Because attendance is limited, all couples must pre-register at www.EastEndWeddingsAndEvents.com
Vendors will be spread out under a tent and in a barn. There will be at least 6 feet of open space between each vendor.
The NEW virtual online showcase will run from Wednesday, April 1 – May 5, 2020. The weblink will feature amazing showcase specials from many wedding and event professionals.
We hope that anyone planning a wedding or a special event you can take advantage of these fabulous deals online and/or at the showcase.
3/15/20
Rogers Memorial Library Closes
Dear RML Friends,
Rogers Memorial Library makes the health and well-being of our visitors and staff our first priority.
Out of an abundance of caution, the Rogers Memorial Library will be closed through Sunday, March 29th.
Book drops will be closed and patrons are asked to keep material until we re-open. During this period, loan periods will be extended and fines will be waived. Changes to our schedule will be posted on our website www.myrml.org
Our online services are still available so be sure to visit us on the web at www.myrml.org
Please be assured that the library is committed to doing its part to safeguard our community. We’ll continue to watch the situation closely and keep you informed through emails and our website about any changes to our schedule.
3/15/20
RJD Gallery Message (with Update)
Dear Friends,
It’s us again…. we are still open! We did not mention in the earlier email that we are happy to arrange a private VIP appointment for our openings for you or for any time that you wish to view artwork so that you may feel comfortable about keeping a safe distance from others.
In response to the growing concern about the COVID-19 virus, and with our sincere interest in best serving and protecting our collectors, we will no longer be hosting gallery receptions open to the public. We will remain open daily, for our regular business hours and will practice proactive measures as advised by the CDC.
Our gallery openings will now be online, with live video feeds with the RJD Gallery team of Richard, Joi and Mago sharing details about the featured artists and their artwork on display.
We thank you in advance for your understanding and we hope to see you in the future.
With kindest regards,
Richard, Joi and MAGO
3/14/20
Parrish Art Museum Closes: Public Announcement with Online Resources
PARRISH ART MUSEUM CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC AS OF
FRIDAY EVENING, MARCH 13, 2020
The Museum will keep the public informed about plans to reopen and resume programs
WATER MILL, NY 3/14/2020—Parrish Art Museum Director Terrie Sultan and the Board of Trustees announced that the Museum would be closed to the public and all programs cancelled as of 6:00 pm Friday, March 13, 2020 until further notice, in response to the developing situation with the Coronavirus.
“We care deeply for our community, and the health and safety of all our members and friends is of utmost importance to us,” said Sultan. “We firmly believe that the arts provide the opportunities for inspiration, contemplation, and connection that feed our souls and raise our spirits. In challenging times, the arts are even more important.”
While the facility is physically closed, the Museum is offering the community many opportunities to engage online with art and artists through:
Artist Stories: A section of the Parrish website that offers a deep dive into the life and work of artists on the East End http://parrishart.org/artist-stories/#/
Parrish Podcasts: A new podcast series presenting conversations on emerging trends, artist projects, and cultural issues. https://parrishart.org/media
Pechakucha: The popular program featuring rapid-fire talks by East End creatives is now accessible to all on the Pechakucha website https://www.pechakucha.com/cities/hamptons
Videos: Nearly 400 videos of Parrish programs are available on Vimeo – from the opening of the Museum in 2012 until today. https://vimeo.com/parrishartmuseum
Over the course of the next several days, the Parrish will announce a range of additional initiatives to ensure that anyone anywhere can continue to enjoy the masterworks from the collection and other means of continuing a vital and replenishing experience.
3/14/20
Garden Club of East Hampton: Member Diagnosed
Dear GCEH Members,
This is to inform you that [name withheld by Dan’s Papers] was diagnosed with coronavirus earlier this week. She’s resting comfortably at home in quarantine, with plenty of food, supplies, and medicine for the next few weeks. She asks that we please don’t call, but she appreciates our well wishes. She has no idea where or how she was exposed and got sick. Meanwhile, health authorities have been engaged in contact tracing.
Yours,
Julie Sakellariadis
3/14/20
Southampton Arts Center Closes All Galleries
I wanted to let you know that we have now decided to also close the TAKEOVER! galleries through March 29 (for now). We will decide the next course of action in a couple of weeks. So totally closed. 🙁
Parrish has also closed their galleries.
3/14/20
Parrish Art Museum Closes: Update to Members from the Director
Dear Members of the Parrish Community,
I write to inform you that the Parrish has made the difficult and thoughtful decision to close the Museum to the public, effective immediately, until further notice. We care deeply for our extended community, and the health and safety of all our members, artists, staff, and supporters is of paramount importance to us.
We firmly believe that the arts provide life-changing opportunities for inspiration, contemplation, and connection. In these challenging times, finding solace in the arts can bring needed relief from stress and uncertainty. We promise to continue to communicate with you and share with you many exciting ways to engage with the art and artists of the Parrish, even when our physical doors are closed. Please enjoy inspiring podcasts, videos, and a deep dive into the artists on the East End available online now.
Thank you for your understanding and your continued support. Please be safe, and we look forward to seeing you very soon.
Warmly,
Terrie Sultan
Director
3/14/20
Suffolk County Water Authority Policy Changes
To our Valued Customers,
In order to help protect the health of our employees and our 1.2 million
customers, SCWA has enacted a number of temporary policy changes
designed to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
First and foremost, please know that your water service will not be
interrupted, nor will the quality of your water be impacted as a result
of the COVID-19 outbreak. According to the CDC, the COVID-19 virus is
not waterborne, and all SCWA water is already treated with chlorine for
disinfection purposes.
In an effort to limit person-to-person contact, we are temporarily
suspending all non-essential customer in-home appointments until further
notice and limiting public access to SCWA offices. The following polices
have been put in place effective immediately:
* SCWA’s Coram Customer Service Center will remain open to the public so
that customers may continue to pay their bill in-person at this
location, however we do prefer customers pay their bill online or over
the phone at this time. Please visit our website www.SCWA.com for
details.
* Oakdale Administration Headquarters will allow only individuals with
appointments into the building through use of the phone in the
vestibule. All others will be allowed to conduct business via the phone
only.
* The SCWA Purchasing Department is suspending all in-person public bid
openings. All bids and/or proposals shall be delivered by mail,
overnight carrier. Bids and/or proposals will be opened by Purchasing
department employees. No hand delivery will be accepted. Public
openings will be restored in the future. The Great River Purchasing
office shall not allow any non-SCWA employees onto the floor unless the
individual has an appointment.
* The Bay Shore Production Control office will not allow any non-SCWA
employees beyond the vestibule. Any correspondence or payments to SCWA
from a customer will be placed in the box inside the vestibule.
* The Oakdale Finance office will not allow any non-SCWA employees into
the building unless the individual has an appointment. Any
correspondence or payments from a customer should be placed in the box
inside the vestibule.
* The Oakdale New Service office will not allow any non-SCWA employee
beyond the vestibule. A box has been placed inside the vestibule to
allow customers and/or potential customers to leave applications,
drawings, checks, and/or any other correspondence for New Service or
Cross Connection Control. A list of phone numbers has been posted in
the vestibule so that customers can connect to either New Service or
Cross Connection for further assistance. A message will be placed on the
New Service call-in line informing people of the changes.
* The Great River Engineering office will not allow any non-SCWA
employees into the building unless the individual has an appointment.
* The Westhampton office will not allow any non-SCWA employees into the
building unless the individual has an appointment. A box has been
placed in the vestibule to allow customers to leave correspondence for
SCWA or the Central Pine Barrens Commission.
* All tours of the SCWA Education Center and Laboratory located in
Hauppauge have been cancelled for the month of March. To re-schedule a
tour, please visit www.SCWA.com.
* Inspections of trucks requiring hydrant permits will continue on an
appointment basis. People requiring an inspection should contact SCWA
when they arrive at SCWA at their appointment time. An SCWA employee
will go into the parking lot to perform the inspection.
* SCWA has discontinued in-person cross connection inspections effective
immediately and has developed a process by which a plumber can provide
photos of the device for SCWA review. Inspections of outdoor devices
will continue as normal.
If you have any questions about the policies listed above, please feel
free to call our Customer Service line at (631) 698-9500, or email
Community Outreach Coordinator Seth Wallach at Seth.Wallach@SCWA.com. We
thank you in advance for your understanding. If we all work together,
we can prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey W. Szabo
Chief Executive Officer
3/14/20
Rogers Memorial Library Update: Action Plan
Library Update Regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Library Action Plan
UPDATE (3/14/20): The library will be closing at 3 p.m. today, Saturday, March 14th, and will remain closed tomorrow, Sunday, March 15th. During this time we will be assessing our schedule for the upcoming week. Please check back Monday for further information.
Rogers Memorial Library makes the health and well-being of our visitors and staff our first priority and are closely monitoring information about COVID-19. We are following directions from the national, state, and local health officials, which include the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization. We have enhanced the cleaning procedures throughout the library and are taking actions to reduce the potential transmission of the virus.
The library is open for regular operating hours but starting Monday, March 16th through Tuesday, March 31st, we will be cancelling Programs for all ages. Please consult our event calendar or call the library with questions. We will post all changes as needed.
In addition, The Friends of the Rogers Memorial Library Book Shop will also be closed beginning this Saturday until the end of the month and will not be accepting any donations.
The library offers many resources that can be accessed remotely from home with your library card and we invite you to explore our website: www.myrml.org to learn more. Call us if you need assistance logging on.
Please be assured that the library is committed to doing its part to safeguard our community. We’ll continue to watch the situation closely and keep you informed through emails and our website about any changes to our schedule.
Important Links
- Center for Disease Control and Protection | Español
- Prevention | Español
- Symptoms | Español
- Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2
- World Health Organization
- NYS DOH
- Suffolk County Department of Health
- National Library of Medicine
- Medline Plus
- Talking to kids about the Coronavirus
At Home Library Access
For those unable to visit the library, here are some of the many library resources that can be accessed from home with your library card.
- Borrow eBooks and downloadable audiobooks from Live-brary.com
- Stream music, movies, and TV shows from Hoopla
- Stream movies from Kanopy
- Access digital magazines from Flipster
- Take online training courses through Lynda.com
- Take online training courses through RML Academy
- Access online tutoring through Brainfuse
- Access Research Databases
3/14/20
i-Tri: Important Announcement Regarding COVID-19/Coronavirus
As we continue to monitor the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, i-tri has made the difficult decision to take the precautionary measure to transition from our in-person programs to an online format through the end of Spring Break. To be clear, precautionary doesn’t mean panic. We are a community based organization, and we have decided to practice social distancing to keep our communities safe. And yet, in a time where social distancing is becoming more and more important, we also recognize the urgent need to maintain a sense of community, support and love for our girls who may be feeling added anxiety or stress.
Therefore, we will not meet next week in order to give our staff the time to develop effective online programming and prepare a delivery system so that starting the week of March 23rd, we can provide a full experience to every i-tri girl VIRTUALLY.
Our goal is to ensure that these virtual programs will allow our girls to stay active, stay connected and stay supported during what may be an overwhelming time for many.
We will continue to re-access the situation and keep everyone updated as to if we will continue online or go back to in person meetings after April 13th.
Our mission is to empower girls and how we do this may look a little different this season, but our mission does not change. We are still here for our girls. We recognize the added level of stress that everyone is feeling, and we are preparing to ensure that they have all the love and support that they deserve.
3/14/20
BookHampton Update: Event Cancellations, Services
Dear Reader,
These are unprecedented times. First and foremost, please know that all of us at BookHampton wish good health to you, your family, and friends. There are many unknowns and things continue to change very rapidly, almost hourly, and we thank you for your patience as we sail these uncharted waters together.
We know that so many of you consider BookHampton a resource, a place of respite, a friend. It’s been an honor to play this vital role in our community and one we plan on continuing through this uneasy time. Here is how we plan to keep our customers, our staff, and our community safe.
We want to provide you options, whether you want to visit us in person, by appointment, by phone, text message, or email, remotely/virtually — whatever works for you. We’re here to provide bookseller advice, easy pick up/curbside delivery, or a friendly face!
To that end we will:
Extend FREE shipping on all orders placed at bookhampton.com.
Curbside pick-up: we’ll deliver your purchase to you in your vehicle. Place your order online or with a bookseller over the phone, and text/call us upon your arrival (please mention your vehicle details!) and we’ll run out.
Booksellers are ready to chat and answer inquiries by phone, text message, or e-mail.
Events
We have cancelled our upcoming wine tasting with Park Place Wines & Liquors.
Our Sunday morning story times have been cancelled until further notice.
As of now, scheduled author events will go on as planned but please watch for updates.
These events will be limited to no more than 15 attendees.
Please refer to the calendar at bookhampton.com for further details.
Please attend events only if you’re feeling well.
Of course, the bookstore is disinfected daily by cleaning services, as well as hourly by our staff. Staff is following CDC requirements regarding hand washing and hygiene. Our staff members will NOT come to work if they’re ill, and we ask that you refrain from visiting us in person if you are ill. We will continue to provide a clean, safe environment, now and always.
We thank you for your patience as we work to address and react to frequent developments. If you have any questions, concerns, suggestions, or if we can be helpful in any way, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your support is, as always, important and very much appreciated.
See you in the store,
Carolyn Brody
Owner
BookHampton
3/13/20
Project MOST Update
To our Project MOST community,
With the growing concern in regard to the outbreak of Coronavirus (Covid-19) in East Hampton, we want to provide you with an update. We are taking these events very seriously and are closely monitoring the situation. The safety of our students, staff, and the families in our community is our top priority. We are operating under the protocol set by the school districts in the Town of East Hampton.
Tomorrow’s Saturday programming will proceed as scheduled. John M. Marshall Elementary School and Springs School are taking precautionary measures and will be closed on Monday and Tuesday. Pursuant to their decision, Project MOST After School will also be closed Monday and Tuesday. We will provide another update on Tuesday, March 17th. Registration for School Vacation Learning Lab (which takes place April 6-9, 2020) remains open and we will continue to monitor and follow recommendations from our local agencies.
Thank you for your cooperation to help us keep our community healthy and safe. We will keep you keep apprised of further updates.
Best regards,
Rebecca Morgan Taylor
Executive Director
3/13/20
Tripoli Gallery Postpones Alice Hope Opening
PUBLIC OPENING RECEPTION POSTPONED
Tripoli Gallery has decided to postpone the public opening reception due to health and safety concerns related to COVID-19 (please find information and advice on the CDC website). The gallery will temporarily be open by appointment only. Please visit the gallery website and social media platforms for information on the current exhibition. The well-being of our community is our top concern and we wish you all good health.
For all inquiries please contact info@tripoligallery.com or call 631.377.3715.
3/13/20
Media Alert: Pink Pearl Gala Rescheduled to June 5
Sixth Annual Pink Pearl Gala Rescheduled for June 5
Wading River – On Friday, June 5, the North Fork Breast Health Coalition will again celebrate breast-cancer survivors, providers and caregivers at the Sixth Annual Pink Pearl Gala of the non-profit organization. The event was originally planned for March 27. The cocktail reception, seated dinner and dancing will be held from 6-10 PM in the Northampton Ballroom at East Wind Long Island, 5720 Route 25A, Wading River.
During this year’s gala, the North Fork Breast Health Coalition will honor the Peconic River Sportsman’s Club, located in Manorville, with the Community Spirit Award. The private club has held several public events, which have raised tens of thousands of dollars for Long Island breast cancer coalitions. In addition, Stage 4 breast-cancer survivor/thriver Keri Lynn Stromski of Jamesport will receive the inaugural Medal of Honor Award.
The Pink Pearl Sponsor of this year’s gala will be the Simmons Point Group of Janney Montgomery Scott LLC. With an office in Riverhead, the Simmons Point Group is an experienced group of financial professionals at Janney Montgomery Scott LLC—one of the nation’s most prestigious investment firms.
Seating for the inspiring, wear-pink event will be available for $125 per person and $95 for breast-cancer survivors through www.northforkbreasthealth.org. To reserve individual seating or reserve tables for a group, please leave a message at the coalition office in Riverhead at 631-208-8889. For information about corporate sponsorship opportunities or contributing to a gift basket, contact the event chair, Melanie McEvoy Zuhoski, at 917-699-5948 or nfbreasthealth@gmail.com.
The North Fork Breast Health Coalition is currently led by President Susan Ruffini. The all-volunteer, nonprofit organization supports local breast-cancer patients with programs such as Helping Hand grants. Funds raised by the gala will also allow the group to continue to provide free services such as gentle yoga, reflexology, meditation class and massage therapy to breast-cancer patients and survivors.
Ann Cotten-DeGrasse and her late husband, Antonio, founded NFBHC in 1998 because they saw a great need for such an organization on the North Fork, where there is an especially high rate of diagnosis of the disease. A retired teacher, Ann has also served as president of the Riverhead School Board. The gala was named for the late Pearl Philindas, past president of the coalition.
3/13/20
A Message from the Friends of Rogers Memorial Library: Bookshop Closed
Dear Bookshop patrons,
Rogers Memorial Library and the Friends of Rogers Memorial Library make the health and well-being of our visitors, volunteers and staff our first priority and are closely monitoring information about COVID-19. We are following directions from the national, state and local health officials, which include the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization. We have enhanced the cleaning procedures throughout the library and are taking actions to reduce the potential transmission of the virus.
As such precautions are taken, the Friends of the Rogers Memorial Library Book Shop will be closed beginning this Saturday until the end of the month and will not be accepting any donations.
We thank you for your understanding and assistance in this situation.
3/13/20
Suffolk County Historical Society Museum Cancellations
CALENDAR OF EVENTS (March 13, 2020)
EVENT UPDATE: All of our March events have been cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak. We hope to reschedule as soon as we can! The museum will remain open until further notice. Stay tuned, stay healthy, and thank you for your understanding!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Saturday, March 14, 2020 – 1:00 pm – How to Feed 50 People in 50 Minutes! A Food Demonstration & Tasting Event with Local Chef George Giannaris. The owner and chef of the North Fork’s iconic restaurant will show us how to prepare a meal for a group of 50 people in 50 minutes, and then will share the meal with us! For decades the Hellenic has kept loyal patrons coming back not just for healthy, delicious fare prepared with locally sourced ingredients, but also for an eatery that always feels like home. George is passionate about eating healthy and will share his tips while demonstrating how to prepare a delicious meal. He will also tell stories from his two books, Ferry Tales I and II, and sell and sign copies of his books. We’re sorry! Event has been cancelled!
Thursday, March 26, 2020 – 6:00 pm – BOOK & BOTTLE: Enrico Fermi: Voyage to a New World with Edward A. Sierra. This engaging and informative presentation on the life and work of Enrico Fermi, a world-changing Italian-American physicist, father, husband, and Nobel Prize winner, should not be missed! Learn how one of the world’s most brilliant and productive scientists led the first controlled nuclear chain reaction and what led to his discovery of nuclear reactions. Members Free; Non-members $5. Includes wine + cheese and admission to current exhibits. RSVP Required: 631-727-2881 x100. We’re sorry! Event has been cancelled!
3/13/20
Paraco Gas: Message to Customers
The health and safety of the Paraco family – including our customers and employees – is always our top priority.
Your Propane Usage
As more people are taking precautionary measures against the spread of the COVID-19 each day, you might be spending more time at home – working from home, eating out less and in general, spending less time in places where crowds exist.
This may also mean an increase in your use of propane for heating, hot water and cooking at home. So, we encourage you to check your propane levels more frequently in the coming weeks. If your gauge reaches between 30-35% be sure to give us a call to prevent any potential service interruption and assist in keeping you safe and comfortable.
3/13/20
PSEG: Update for Our Customers – Suspends Disconnections for Non-Payment
Thank you for being a valued customer. PSEG Long Island is deeply committed to the health, safety and well-being of our customers, employees and communities. We know that our customers rely on us to power their lives and businesses, and we are doing our part in fulfilling this commitment.
PSEG Long Island, like many companies, has robust business continuity plans and emergency procedures that predate the COVID-19 outbreak. Over the past several weeks, we have been implementing those plans and ensuring their effectiveness. In addition, we are leveraging the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) and state and local authorities.
PSEG Long Island continues to operate normally, providing safe and reliable power to its 1.1 million customers.
As a result of the outbreak, effective immediately, PSEG Long Island is temporarily suspending residential service disconnections for non-payment. This policy will be in place through the end of April at which time we will evaluate the continued need.
During any time of hardship, financial assistance and payment programs are available to help pay your energy bills. For more information, visit here.
Again, our priority is the safety and well-being of our customers, employees and the communities we serve, and our thoughts are with those experiencing difficulty at this time.
3/13/20
East Hampton Historical Society Statement and Cancellations
Updates regarding EHHS Programming
Statement from East Hampton Historical Society Executive Director, Maria Vann:
As a precautionary measure due to Corona Virus, COVID-19, we will be cancelling our upcoming events through March 31, at which time we will assess other events moving forward.
If there is a possibility for postponement, we will do so. We apologize for any inconvenience but take the safety/health of our visitors, members, and friends very seriously. If you have any direct concerns, please contact Executive Director, Maria Vann at director@easthamptonhistory.org OR call 631-324-6850.
Programs Related to Smithsonian’s Water/Ways
CANCELLED: WHAT IS A WATERWAY ANYWAY?
Lecture at East Hampton Library (159 Main Street, East Hampton)
Thursday, March 12, 2020 at 7p.m.
Admission is FREE
CANCELLED: History of Montaukett/Shinnecock Fishing
East Hampton Marine Museum (31 Bluff Road, Amagansett)
Friday, March 20, 2020 at 7 p.m.
Admission is FREE, 50 Person limit
CANCELLED: Salt Water People
Staged Reading by American Lore Theater
East Hampton Marine Museum (31 Bluff Road, Amagansett)
Sunday, March 29, 2020 at 2 p.m.
Temporarily Closed:
We are not announcing a re-opening date at this time and will provide updates on a week-to-week basis on social media and our websites.
Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition on Display at Clinton Academy Water/Ways
Exhibition Dates: February 29 – April 11, 2020
Clinton Academy Museum
151 Main Street, East Hampton, NY
Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
No Admission Charge; Donations Welcome
For full event listings and updates, kindly visit https://easthamptonhistory.org/events/
3/13/20
Suffolk Theater Reschedules Earth, Wind and Fire Tribute Show
Suffolk Theater has decided to move this weekend’s show with Earth Wind Fire Tribute Band to June 13. We ask that ticket holders hang on to their tickets – and we will update everyone with more information shortly.
3/13/20
HSBC Bank: Message to Customers
Stay safe.
As new reports of Coronavirus (COVID-19) continue to develop, there’s no denying that we have waded into unprecedented waters. The health and safety of our employees and customers remains our first priority, and because of that, I want to share my thoughts on these difficult times.
I’ve been in this business for a long time and have seen my fair share of highs and lows. One thing that has served me well throughout my career is the need to pause and take a deep breath during turbulent periods. To feel anxious is normal – it’s hard not to be in a world that is changing day to day. We are faced with unparalleled challenges and adversity. But if history tells us anything, it’s that the human condition will rise to the challenges we face, as we are doing now. No one knows what tomorrow will bring but that doesn’t mean we stop preparing for it.
HSBC has been connecting customers to opportunities since 1865. As one of the largest banking and financial services organizations in the world, we are incredibly diversified, with operations in 64 countries and territories. Our expertise and experience has allowed us to be where the growth is for more than 150 years, enabling businesses to thrive, economies to prosper, and ultimately, helping people to fulfil their hopes and realize their ambitions.
While today’s markets are experiencing unprecedented volatility, rest assured that our best and brightest are working tirelessly to understand this environment. With a bench as deep as ours, we’re aware of the historical parallels and potential outcomes.
Fear and uncertainty are real and tangible emotions and it is easy to succumb to the unprecedented negative news and the panic in the market. That is why on a personal note, I recently spoke to my own financial advisor to review my family’s financial plan, and to ensure we can still achieve our goals despite the current and – potentially further – market turbulence. It was a great discussion and her advice was to stay the course as this crisis, like those in the past, will come to an end. ‘Don’t panic and take a long-term view,’ were words that helped put me and my family at ease. Based on my experience, I’d encourage you to seek advice from your financial advisor as well.
Please know that we have comprehensive plans in place to ensure our employees remain safe and are ready and able to serve our customers without disruption. Following my signature below are additional details regarding HSBC’s resilience and further information we feel is important to put in your hands. As the situation evolves we will adjust our efforts accordingly.
Additionally, I encourage you to access your accounts and perform routine banking transactions at home using Personal Internet Banking or the HSBC Mobile Banking App, as well as an ATM near you where you can also access cash.
You can also visit global health organization websites that provide more information on the coronavirus, including the World Health Organization and International SOS.
Above all, I want you to know that you can continue to rely on the global resources and stability of HSBC Bank. We stand with you, ready to help, offer advice and share our best thinking on how to navigate through this challenging period.
Thank you and remember we’re here to help.
Michael Roberts
Chief Executive Officer, HSBC USA
3/13/20
Southampton History Museum: Open for Tours but no Programs
Greetings,
After talking with nearby cultural centers and Southampton Village trustees all four properties managed by the Southampton History Museum will remain open for tours. However, all public lectures, workshops and programs will be cancelled through March 31.
Rogers Mansion Museum Complex
17 Meeting Lane, Southampton
Open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 am to 4 pm.
Pelletreau Silver Shop
80 Main Street
Open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 am to 4 pm
The Thomas Halsey Homestead
249 South Main Street, Southampton
Open by appointment 631 283-2494
Conscience Point Historic Marker and Nature Walk
1640 Conscience Point Road, North Sea
Open sunrise to sunset
A notice will be sent if this changes. Questions? Let me know.
Stay safe and be well.
Tom
Tom Edmonds, Executive Director
Southampton History Museum
17 Meeting House Lane, Southampton, NY 11968
(631) 283-2494
3/13/20
Parrish Art Museum Update: Museum Café Closed, Public Programs Cancelled
Dear Members of the Parrish Community,
The arts provide the opportunities for inspiration, contemplation, and connection that feed our souls and raise our spirits. In challenging times, the arts are even more important.
The Museum’s galleries are open until further notice, but the Museum Café is closed, and public programs are cancelled through April 3 (please see list at the bottom of this email).
3/13/20
Southold Town Update
LATEST UPDATE:
March 13, 2020 12:25 PM
To follow up on Supervisors Russell’s Press release ( with important links to CDC information ) Citizens over 60 with underlying heath conditions who may need assistance with meals should be encouraged to contact the human resource center at 631-298-4460. You may contact me at 631-765-5806 if you have any questions.
Prior Updates
March 13, 2020 11:59 AM
URGENT NOTICE
Although there are no reported cases of the COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) in employees of the Town of Southold, out of an abundance of caution town office buildings are closed to the public until further notice.
At this time, employees are still reporting to work and will be ready to assist you by telephone or email.
Visit the town website for updated information.
AVISO URGENTE
Aunque no hay casos reportados de el COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) entre los empleados del el Pueblo de Southold, por medidas de precaucion todas las officinas en los edificios del Pueblo estan cerradas para el publico hasta nuevo aviso.
En este momento, nuestros empleados se estan reportando para trabajar y estaran listos para assistirlos a ustedes por telefono or por correo electronico.
para mas informacion actualizada por favor visite la cita de internet de nuestro Pueblo: www.southoldtownny.gov
March 13, 2020 9:19 AM
Due to the Town office buildings being closed to the public, the Justice Court will be closed until further notice. The court staff will be working and can assist you with any questions by telephone or email.
3/12/20
East End Arts: School & Gallery Closure
To our Staff, Students, and Members:
We were just informed that the Riverhead Central School District is closed tomorrow, due to the ongoing spread of the COVID-19 virus. Riverhead School District will be re-evaluating their closure over the weekend. As we had mentioned in our last announcement, we will follow the lead of the school district and close our school for the good of our community.
Tomorrow, Friday, March 13th, all classes are cancelled. Saturday, March 14th, all classes and art pick-ups are cancelled. We will be monitoring the Riverhead School Districts closures and will notify you as soon as possible as to our schedule for next week.
We appreciate your patience as we navigate this uncharted territory.
Please continue to check your emails, social media, and/or website for updates on closures and other information.
Thank you,
The Staff at East End Arts
3/12/20
Christie Leigh Babirad Author Talk: April 2nd – Date Change
The date for the [April 2] Author Talk at Quogue Firehouse has been changed to June 11th at 6pm due to the virus.
Thank you.
Christie
3/12/20
Madoo Conservancy: March Postponements
Dear Friends,
The board of the Madoo Conservancy has decided to postpone our upcoming March events due to the dangers that the Coivd-19 virus could present to our audiences. This includes:
March 15, Winter Lectures at Madoo with Toshi Yano, Director of Horticulture at Wethersfield.
March 24, Madoo in Manhattan with rosarian Stephen Scanniello.
We will alert you once the new dates have been selected. If you have already bought tickets to either event we will reach out to you personally.
For those of you on the East End, I invite you to contact me at alejandro@madoo.org for a private visit to the gardens and to view our new exhibition Robert Dash: Printmaker, that will not open to the general public until May 15.
Hoping you and yours are well,
Alejandro
Director
The Madoo Conservancy
3/12/20
Guild Hall: Response to COVID-19
Dear Guild Hall patron,
As you know from our recent email, we have been closely monitoring official developments and recommendations around the COVID-19 virus. Guild Hall is determined to follow preventive measures that are in the best interest of our artists, audiences, students, volunteers, and staff. As such, we have made the decision to suspend all programs at Guild Hall, including those in The John Drew Theater, the Guild Hall Museum, and our Classroom, through March 31.
We feel it is our responsibility as a place of community gathering to do our part to assist government, health, and local officials in slowing the spread of this virus. We will be offering full refunds for all shows through March 31, or the opportunity to reschedule for a future performance. Donations of ticket fees as a contribution to Guild Hall are also deeply appreciated. We thank you for your patience as we begin to communicate with our ticket buyers, and issue refunds.
We take this situation very seriously and will continue to monitor and follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and our local agencies. We will implement additional measures should they become necessary, and will keep you informed.
Fundamental to Guild Hall’s founding remains the belief that the arts nourish the roots of our society, connect us, and provide an antidote to troubled times. In order to continue providing cultural programming to our patrons during this time of uncertainty, we will be livestreaming select content like gallery tours of the Artist Members Exhibition as available. These programs will not be open to the public but will be created for online audiences only. Please visit guildhall.org for announcements.
Sincerely,
Andrea Grover
Executive Director
Jeannine Dyner
Deputy Director
3/12/20
Southold Town: COVID-19 Virus Alert
DATE: March 12, 2020
CONTACT: Southold Town Supervisor Scott A. Russell
RE: Update COVID-19
On March 10, 2020, I hosted a meeting with Southold Town’s expanded Emergency Management Team consisting of over 35 government officials including representatives from Suffolk County, local school officials, fire department chiefs, Town Senior Services and health care administrators. Presentations were made to the group by Suffolk County Officials currently managing the COVID-19 crisis as well as ELIH at Stony Brook University Hospital. All participants engaged in open discussions and provided the current status of their facility/organization, precautions they have initiated in the workplace, their plans for community spread of COVID-19 and their future needs that Southold Town can assist with. Southold Town’s Emergency Management Team will continue to keep our local partners informed and involved in response to this serious crisis.
The public is urged to visit Southold’s website and click on the CDC link, which is a comprehensive FAQ and answers many of the questions we all have. People are also welcome to call 311 which is a hotline dedicated to answering any questions someone may have. Some important information contained in the guide is:
If you are developing symptoms that are associated with COVID-19 such as fever, cough or shortness of breath and or have been in close contact with someone known to have been infected you should contact your primary care physician or, if you don’t have one, you should contact an urgent care facility and follow the specific directions.
Symptoms usually appear between 2 and 14 days of exposure.
If you show no symptoms, please be vigilant and follow well-shared protocol of washing your hands thoroughly, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth and maintain a safe distance between yourself and other people which is no less than 6 feet.
If you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, contact the Suffolk County Department of Health at (631) 854-0333.
Currently, the Suffolk County Department of Health has confirmed 7 cases of COVID-19 in Southold. We will be giving public updates as we receive them.
Stay home if you are sick, for your own safety and the safety of others.
Please be advised that all Southold Town office buildings will be closed to the public effective at 4:00 pm this afternoon, March 12, 2020. All public meetings, hearings and town-sponsored programs are also cancelled until further notice. You may still access the various departments by phone or email.
A State of Emergency has been declared for Southold Town effective 4:00PM, Thursday, March 12, 2020.
If you have any questions, you can call the Supervisor’s office at 631 765-1889.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/summary.html
3/12/20
Rogers Memorial Library: A Message from the Director
Dear RML Friends,
Rogers Memorial Library makes the health and well-being of our visitors and staff our first priority and are closely monitoring information about COVID-19. We are following directions from the national, state and local health officials, which include the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization. We have enhanced the cleaning procedures throughout the library and are taking actions to reduce the potential transmission of the virus.
The library is open for regular operating hours but starting Monday, March 16th through Tuesday, March 31st, we will be cancelling Programs for all ages. Please consult our event calendar or call the library with questions. We will post all changes as needed.
In addition, The Friends of the Rogers Memorial Library Book Shop will also be closed beginning this Saturday until the end of the month and will not be accepting any donations.
The library offers many resources that can be accessed remotely from home with your library card and we invite you to explore our website: www.myrml.org to learn more. Call us if you need assistance logging on.
Please be assured that the library is committed to doing its part to safeguard our community. We’ll continue to watch the situation closely and keep you informed through emails and our website about any changes to our schedule.
3/12/20
New News Flash The Congregate Lunch program at the Southold Town Human Resource Center. for the Town of Southold
The Congregate Lunch program at the Southold Town Human Resource Center has been suspended through Friday March 20th, 2020. http://www.southoldtownny.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=515
3/11/20
Southold Historical Society PRESS RELEASE
Southold, NY
POSTPONED
Southold Historical Society’s Lecture
“The Big Duck and Eastern Long Island’s Duck Farming Industry”
Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at 4pm
Peconic Landing Auditorium, 1500 Brecknock Rd., Greenport, NY 11944
Southold Historical Society has announced that it has postponed the lecture “The Big Duck and Eastern Long Island’s Duck Farming Industry” by Susan Van Scoy. The lecture, which was to be held in partnership with Peconic Landing, will be rescheduled to a future date.
For more information, please call (631) 765-5500 or email info@southoldhistorical.org.
3/11/20
Southampton History Museum Message
Greetings,
The health and safety of everyone who comes through our doors is very important to us.
We are keeping up-to-date with COVID-19 Virus advisories and taking every precaution to combat its spread.
Cleaning with bleach and other disinfectants are being done at the Rogers Mansion and the Pelletreau Silver Shop to ensure a safe environment.
Please take every precaution:
· Wash your hands regularly.
· Find alternatives to shaking hands or touching.
· If you are ill, please stay home.
Any cancellations will be announced ASAP.
Tom Edmonds
Executive Director
Southampton History Museum
3/11/20
East End Arts Update
Dear East End Arts Friends,
The health and safety of our students, members, and staff is our utmost concern.
It is important during this time as the coronavirus situation evolves that everyone feels comfortable attending the many great programs that East End Arts offers. As of now, all our classes, workshops, and programs are proceeding as scheduled. We ask at this time that everyone practice “social distancing.” This means you are no longer permitted to sit in the waiting room while your children are having their lesson. Please drop off and pick up your children at the front door and if necessary wait in your cars.
This will help curtail the spread of germs and keep our students, staff, and community safe.
We will follow all closures and protocols set by the Riverhead Central School District. In case of closure we are looking into ways to conduct lessons via Skype or FaceTime. Everyone is working hard to do everything we can to be prepared and are following all the CDC and Federal guidelines.
STEPS EEA IS TAKING
Increasing rigor of cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting procedures within the Arts Center.
Cleaning all pianos keys and other surfaces frequently touched before and after every class.
Promoting hand washing and healthy hygiene practices among our students, faculty and staff; Encouraging the use of hand sanitizer. We have a limited supply, therefore please bring your own, if possible.
Sending home any student or staff member who appears to be sick.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
If you or your child is not feeling well – please stay home!
Follow the CDC’s Guidelines for Prevention & Treatment. CDC link can be found below.
Thank you for supporting East End Arts Arts.
We hope to see you soon! Be well.
The Staff at East End Arts
3/11/20
Rogers Memorial Library Update & Remote Options
Information on COVID-19
Rogers Memorial Library takes the health and safety of our patrons and staff very seriously. The library recommends following the guidance of the Center For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which includes watching for the symptoms of fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
As this is a situation that is evolving daily, the library will send out updates as needed regarding access to the library and its services.
More Information on COVID-19 from CDC.gov
Library Action Plan
In light of the current COVID-19 outbreak and the library’s role as a public building, we wish to inform patrons of the measures taken to prevent the spread of illness.
The library cleaning crew and custodians have been using the cleaning and disinfecting procedures set forth by the CDC and have increased the number of daily disinfecting to prevent the spread of illness. High traffic hand grab areas are receiving extra care, including computer keyboards and terminals, tables, elevator buttons, handrails and doorknobs.
Signage has been posted for staff and patrons from the CDC.gov to remind them of the necessary practices for hand washing, cough covering, and cautions against touching their face. All staff and patrons are urged to stay home if they feel unwell.
For those unable to visit the library, here are some of the many library resources that can be accessed from home with your library card.
Borrow eBooks and downloadable audiobooks from Live-brary.com
Stream music, movies, and TV shows from Hoopla
Access digital magazines from Flipster
Take online training courses through Lynda.com
Take online training courses through RML Academy
Access online tutoring through Brainfuse
For More Information on the Library Action Plan
3/10/20
Guild Hall Update
Dear Guild Hall patron,
As one of the largest cultural institutions on the East End, Guild Hall wants to reassure our visitors that we are closely monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation. The safety and security of our visitors and employees is our highest priority; we have enhanced the cleaning and disinfecting procedures for our entire facility including the theater, museum, classroom, offices and all public spaces.
Our senior team is carefully monitoring the advice of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and following best practice protocols. We encourage our patrons to follow the CDC recommendations and guidelines as well, and any ticket buyers who are feeling ill are eligible for a full refund by request.
We want to underscore that Guild Hall remains here for the community as a center for creativity and expression.
Sincerely,
Andrea Grover, Executive Director
Jeannine Dyner, Deputy Director
Vetted Hamptons Resources
