(One of the activities allowed is fishing, as long as social distancing is done. Seve Kowalski of Clinton casts his line in the Oriskany Creek this month while his friend Andrew Jenkins of Yorkville was upstream a bit. Trout and salmon fishing season opened April 1 in New York. The state's Department of Environmental Conservation website included these Covid-19 social distancing guidelines: fish close to home, avoid high-traffic destinations, keep fishing trips short and keep a distance of 6 feet or more from others.)
All schools in New York state will remain closed through May 15 as decided last week.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the extension last week during one of his daily briefings. This directive includes all non-essential businesses that have been closed since mid-March.
Also included are all social gatherings and other events such as church services.
Schools will continue to provide breakfast and lunch meals to all students through May 15. In addition, Waterville Central School will have its second food give-away Tuesday, April 28. See details on page 3.
Cuomo said the continued plan of New York on Pause will be in coordination with other nearby states. Whether May 15 allows for letting up on some of the restrictions remains unknown, he said.
When that happens, Cuomo said he believes businesses will phase in and need to adopt safety procedures for employees and customers.
Schools will remain teaching through online methods.
Waterville Central School District outlined last week how the rest of the school year will unfold, whether students return to classrooms or not. No students will take Regents or final exams. The third and fourth marking periods will be combined into one marking period.
Students who are in danger of failing a class will be notified May 1. Students who are taking Advance Placement courses will take them online at home if necessary during a designed 45-minute time slot.
As for the spring high school sports season, the state and Section Three have not determined if it’s a go or not. The New York State Public High School Athletic Association announced it is asking all sections their thoughts with a decision to be announced April 27.
Area colleges received a boost Friday afternoon when Congressman Anthony Brindisi announced $42 million has been provided to…