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COVID-19 Update

1/22/2021

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COVID-19 CASES CONTINUE TO GROW IN COLUMBIA COUNTY
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(January 22, 2021) -- With 68 new positive cases of the COVID-19 virus as of midday Friday, county DOH Director Jack Mabb said there seems to be “no letup” in the virus’s continuing impact among county residents. There have been 2,799 positive cases since the beginning of the pandemic. “It’s hammering us,” he said.

As of Friday, there were 36 individuals hospitalized with the virus, which is a new record high for Columbia County. Six individuals are in the ICU, with two on ventilators. Director Mabb said that five recent deaths – three in nursing homes, two from the community -- bring the county total to 61. Active cases and mandatory quarantine totals were unavailable midday Friday. Director Mabb said the Ghent Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, The Grand at Barnwell, and Livingston Hills all continue to experience significant outbreaks of the virus among residents and staff.

“For those who still are not taking this virus seriously, it’s clear this is not a hoax,” said county Board of Supervisors Chairman Matt Murell. “People need to take all available precautions to do what they can to help confine the spread of the virus.”

Director Mabb added that the county DOH administered 107 vaccines on Thursday, and 400 on Friday, bring the total 1700 vaccines administered. 

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CLAVERACK TOWN OFFICE OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

The Claverack Town Office continues to be accessible to the public by appointment only until further notice. This includes the clerks office, assessors office and building department. To make an appointment, please call the Town Office number at 518-672-7911 and follow the directory to find the extension for the department you are looking for. Thank you for your cooperation.

For updates, check the town website.

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COLUMBIA COUNTY DOH COVID VACCINE INFORMATION

Columbia County has established a call center to answer questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. Columbia County residents may call the hotline at 518-697-5560, Monday through Friday between 9am and 4 pm.

Please understand that, due to the very limited supply of vaccine provided by the state, it may take a substantial amount of time (weeks) before CCDOH can provide you with an appointment for vaccination. That said, if you have an opportunity to get the vaccine elsewhere, or a pharmacy contacts you to provide the vaccine to you, it is recommended that you DO IT.

For updated information, continue to check the CCDOH COVID-19 Vaccine Information webpage.

A NOTE FROM KIPPY

​Friends,

Things will likely continue to get worse before they get better; but it is our hope that with holiday gatherings now behind us and more and more people getting vaccinated, we will begin to stem the tide and start to see this pandemic eventually come under control. 

In the mean time, please continue to be vigilant about wearing a face covering when in public, wash your hands often and remain socially distant when possible. 

I assure you that I, Deputy Town Supervisor Steve Hook and the entire Town Board continue to be actively engaged and doing our part to keep our town finances under control, and town services available to residents .

These are difficult times, no doubt, but we'll get through it.

- Kippy
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First Snowstorm of the Season

12/15/2020

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If the forecast is right, we're facing our first significant winter storm of the season Wednesday night into the day on Thursday; and while we're used to these storms here in the northeast, the first snowstorm of the season can sometimes catch us off guard.

That said, I wanted to give you a little heads up and layout the forecast, as it looks right now.
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The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Claverack effective 4 PM Wednesday through 1 PM Thursday.

It looks like snow will begin to fall here after 5 pm on Wednesday, so there should be (as it looks now) minimal impact on the Wednesday afternoon commute home. Snow picks up in intensity late Wednesday night and through the overnight into Thursday when snowfall rates could reach 1"-2" per hour. This will likely make for a very difficult Thursday morning commute. If you're able to go into work late on Thursday, or work from home, that would probably be best.

Total snow accumulations of 12" to 18" is expected by the time the storm winds down Thursday afternoon. 

Again, heavy snow isn't new to us here, but please - since this is our first significant snowstorm of the season - plan to check on elderly friends, family and neighbors.

Stay up-to-date by subscribing to my email list, Kippy News.

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If you haven't already enrolled in Columbia County's new emergency alert system NY-ALERT, now would be a good time!
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COVID-19 TESTING, DEC 15 IN CLAVERACK

12/5/2020

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The Columbia County Department of Health has scheduled a drive-thru COVID-19 testing clinic for December 15, 2020, 9 AM to 11 AM at the A.B. Shaw Firehouse on Route 23 in Claverack.

You must be a resident of Columbia County to be tested at this clinic and you must pre-register.
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This is important information, and we'd ask that you consider forwarding this information to your friends and family.
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New Emergency Alert System for Columbia County

8/18/2020

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Effective August 29, 2020, Columbia County is changing its mass-notification emergency alert system from CodeRed to the system provided by New York State known as NY-ALERT.

​All Columbia County residents are encouraged to enroll in the new emergency alert system, NY-ALERT, prior to August 29th.

Existing landline telephones will be automatically subscribed to the new service.
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Update: cancellations

5/21/2020

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Thankfully, our efforts to stay at home, socially distance and practice good hand hygiene have paid off. We've managed to slow the spread and flatten the curve, which helped avoid a healthcare crisis in our local emergency rooms.

New York State is slowly beginning to reopen, but unfortunately it will be some time before things return to "normal." That said, I regret to share with you the following cancellations:

The Philmont Memorial Day Community service and parade have been canceled. The Minkler-Seery American Legion Post 252 will still honor those Veterans who gave their lives for us with a service at each cemetery and at the Village Memorial Parks, with a time and date to be announced.
Chairman Jeffrey French is asking all Claverack residents to take a moment out of your day on May 25th to remember those service members who are no longer with us.

All rentals of the Claverack Town Park have been suspended for the Summer. This includes any private parties, gatherings, concerts, etc. The park will remain open for walking and playing, but residents are asked to refrain from playing any contact sports (basketball, etc.). 

The Claverack Summer Youth Program at the Town Park has been canceled. The Town Board regrets having to make this decision, but we did not feel it was prudent to move forward with the program as State and County government have both discouraged summer camps and youth programs during this time. We look forward to having a program in Summer 2021.

The Claverack Republican Club's Summer Concert Series has been canceled for 2020. In making the announcement, Club vice-president Charles Schram said, “there was simply no way to make it work given the nature of the venue and the close interaction required.” The club will begin planning for the 2021 season at the first of the year.

Philmont Community Day has been canceled. Any donations, and all money from fundraising will be utilized for next year’s event. Anyone with questions or concerns can contact Secretary/Treasurer Brenda Baker by calling (518)-821-4481, or by email.

For additional updates and announcements, please continue to check the town website.

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Face Masks available

4/25/2020

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The Town of Claverack has received a limited amount of cloth face masks (not medical grade) from the County to distribute for free to Claverack residents who have been unable to obtain them elsewhere.

A limited supply of these masks will be distributed in the Claverack Library Parking Lot on Saturday, April 25th, from 12:00 Noon until about 2:00 PM (or until we run out). Masks are also available at McNann’s on Main Street in Philmont for those of you that live closer to Philmont.

The masks come in packages of five, so we are limiting the distribution to one package per family. We encourage you to share any unneeded masks with someone who needs one. They are made of soft cloth and can be washed and re-used.

Per the State social distancing guidelines, we ask that everyone maintain at least a 6-foot distance from one another if you come to get a package.

Please note that if you cannot make it on Saturday, there will be a supply of these masks at the Town Office on Church St during the week. If you come to the office, our Town Clerk will come out and give you a package.

We apologize for the short notice, but we just received these and wanted to get them out into the community without delay.
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Thank you,
Claverack Town Board
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The latest news

4/16/2020

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Here's the latest information...

  • "New York on PAUSE" was extended today until May 15th, meaning all Schools and nonessential businesses will remain closed.
  • Governor Cuomo issued an executive order requiring all people in New York to wear masks or face coverings when in a public place and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance.  There has been some confusion on this as different sources have relayed this information incorrectly. The Executive Order explicitly says "when in a public place and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance." Social distance means 6 feet between you and other individuals.  
  • An executive order directs employers to provide essential workers with masks free of charge to wear when interacting with the public.
  • New Yorkers who have recovered from COVID-19 are encouraged to donate blood. Here’s information on how to donate.
  • New Yorkers without health insurance can apply through NY State of Health through May 15, 2020; must apply within 60 days of losing coverage.
  • The Columbia County Department of Health is our local community contact for COVID-19 concerns. 
  • The Claverack Town Park is closed until further notice.

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The Pine Haven Nursing Home continues to care for multiple residents who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. To date, over 20 residents have tested positive, some have succumbed to the virus.

In response to the outbreak, County leaders have helped to coordinate procurement of personal protective equipment for Pine Haven staff and Administrators from the facility have been in regular contact with County and State Health Officials to help coordinate response to the situation. 

A number of local businesses have donated equipment and materials to the home. The Claverack Republican Club recently provided dinner to all shifts at the home to show support and appreciation for the work being done.

We sincerely appreciate all that is being done to support Pine Haven and the residents who reside there.

A MESSAGE FROM COUNTY TREASURER PJ KEELER
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As we all know by now, the COVID-19 pandemic is wreaking havoc on our healthcare system and has been personally devastating for thousands of New Yorker's who have contracted the virus and the families of those who have lost their lives as a result. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all.

What may not be so apparent, is the economic toll that the pandemic is having across the country, including right here in Columbia County. When businesses are forced to close, spending and economic activity plummets. This in turn results in significantly less revenue flowing to local governments; money we count on to pay the bills. At the same time, we're forced to spend monies that may or may not have been budgeted for, to respond to the pandemic; things like overtime costs and equipment.

I want to assure everyone that the County finance team is fully engaged and responding to this situation. We are diligently working to assess the potential economic impact this pandemic will have on county and town operations and planning strategies to aggressively respond to the challenges ahead. 

Make no mistake, we will get through this. It will take some tough decisions, belt tightening, and good conservative fiscal management, but rest assured we will take the steps necessary to keep our financial house in order... and I will keep you updated as we do.

My best to you all. Please stay home, stay safe, and be healthy.
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ADDITIONAL COVID-19 UPDATES

4/9/2020

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As the COVID-19 pandemic continues it's grip on our state, I wanted to give you a quick update on things here locally.

First, I want to say THANK YOU to all of our healthcare workers and first responders who are out on the front lines battling this pandemic. I want to also thank all of the essential workers who still report to work everyday, to provide essential goods and services to our residents and community. Much appreciated.

Governor Cuomo has extended the New York State on PAUSE executive order through April 29th. This means that all schools and non-essential businesses must remain closed. Non-essential gatherings of any size (including parties, celebrations and other social events) are prohibited. All residents are encouraged to stay home, and to employ social distancing (keeping at least 6' from others) when situations require you be in public (trips to the grocery store, pharmacy, etc.). The CDC also recommends that you wear a cloth face covering when in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
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While this shutdown is necessary and warranted, it is unfortunately going to take a toll on small businesses and our town budget. We are expecting a sharp decline in sales tax revenue, which will require us to take measures to keep finances stable. Rest assured that we are monitoring the situation and planning for what may lie ahead. 

With all of that said, everything isn't all doom and gloom. There are some very positive signs that things may be starting to trend in the right direction. The rate of hospitalizations and admission to Intensive Care Units are starting to decline, as it the rate of intubations (which refers to patients being placed on ventilators). This is all good news and a glimmer of hope!

Please hang in there, stay home and be safe!

NOTICE: TOWN OFFICES REMAIN CLOSED

All Town Offices remain closed until Thursday April 30, 2020.  As we all know, news concerning this situation changes rapidly and there is always the chance this could be extended so please check the website frequently for any new changes.

If the need arises where it is necessary to speak with someone at the Town Offices, please consult the Town Directory and leave a message for the Town Clerk, Court Clerk, Assessor, or Building Inspector.

Town Court is canceled until after May 1, 2020. All cases already scheduled will be rescheduled and adjournment notices will be mailed.

Updates will be posted on our website and on the town office and court office answering machines.

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Update from the Columbia County Department of Health, as of 3:00 pm, April 9, 2020:

Unfortunately, we have had a fifth death in our community from COVID-19.
  • 83 positive cases of COVID-19 in Columbia County
  • 32 of the 83 cases have recovered from COVID-19
  • 9 of the positive cases are hospitalized, 1 of those are in the ICU
  • 558 test results completed for Columbia County residents
  • 80 residents are under mandatory quarantine
  • 19 under precautionary quarantine
  • 15 residents with suspected, not tested cases

We’ve created charts representing the information reported in our daily updates that can be viewed on our website. 

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The Mellenville-Philmont Food Pantry is doing well and continues to provide much needed food and supplies to town residents.

With so many businesses closed and residents out of work, we have seen an increase in usage of the Food Pantry in recent days. Karen Garafalo is doing a superb job keeping our stock in check and getting it out to the public, and also uses the website and Facebook to let people know what we might be in need of.  

Our minister from the Methodist Church brings about 50 loaves of bread to us each week.  

McNan’s Deli on Main Street in the Village is a great supporter of the Village in many ways.  Along with the Reformed Church in Philmont (now worshiping with the Methodist Church since the fire a few years ago), they provide sandwiches daily to children up to the age of 16.

Taconic Hills School provides breakfast and lunches to students whose families have signed up to receive them. They are delivered each day by Johnston’s Bus Company.

We have a storefront by McNan’s where we keep a tote filled each day with canned goods, bread, spaghetti sauce, pasta, cereal, etc. for anyone in need and also put the same items out on a “free” table outside at the food pantry location (where we also have a cooler with frozen items).

We are very thankful for the support of nearby residents who leave goods at the storefront or bring them to the pantry itself. We've also received financial assistance from some residents. This is a great help as we have to watch our funds carefully and do have to shop for needed items, especially meat protein and items for larger families.  All in all, we are in better shape than many pantries, thanks to all the support that we do get, but that may change drastically “down the road” as people remain out of work.

The vast majority of the food and supplies that we offer do not come to us free; we have to purchase them. Many things, like meat protein, is expensive and makes it difficult for us to afford. So we have to be able to substitute with what we can afford, and use what funds we have.

Anyone wishing to make a financial donation to the food pantry may do so by mailing a check made payable to "Mellenville/Philmont Food Pantry" to the Claverack Town Office, PO Box V, Mellenville, NY 12544.

Mary Jeanne Hoose
Town Clerk

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SOME FUN PHOTOS FROM COLUMBIA MEMORIAL HEALTH

We thank them all for all that they are doing!
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COVID-19 UPDATE

3/27/2020

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PINE HAVEN CONFIRMS CASES OF COVID-19

The Columbia County Department of Health announced today that four residents of Pine Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Philmont have tested positive for COVID-19. The four cases have been confirmed by New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). Each of the four individuals are isolated at the facility. None of the four confirmed cases are hospitalized — their symptoms are being treated and managed by the facility. The families of the patients have been notified and the facility reports the patients’ symptoms are improving.

Pine Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation is remaining vigilant in taking proper precautions to protect staff and all residents. The facility has taken several precautions over the past three weeks in an effort to protect their community. They have been closed to visitors for the past three weeks, and employees and all essential deliveries are being screened for travel, symptoms or fever.

“I’m confident that Pine Haven is taking the necessary steps to protect their residents and employees,” Columbia County Board of Supervisors Chairman Matt Murell said Friday. “The Columbia County Department of Health remains in constant contact with the New York State Department of Health,” he added.

“All nursing homes within the county have a plan to handle these types of contingencies,” said county Emergency Management Director David W. Harrison, Jr.

“Pine Haven has and continues to be proactive. We understand they’ve been isolating residents to their wings. They’ve certainly been closely monitoring anyone coming in or out. As the Chairman mentioned we continue to communicate with the state throughout our response,” said Jack Mabb, Director of Public Health.

NOTICE: TOWN OFFICES CLOSED

All Town Offices will be closed until Monday April 6, 2020.  As we all know, news concerning this situation changes rapidly and there is always the chance this could be extended so please check the website frequently for any new changes.

If the need arises where it is necessary to speak with someone at the Town Offices, please consult the Town Directory and leave a message for the Town Clerk, Court Clerk, Assessor, or Building Inspector.

Town Court is canceled until after May 1, 2020. All cases already scheduled will be rescheduled and adjournment notices will be mailed.

All Town and County meetings have been cancelled until further notice.

Updates will be posted on our website and on the town office and court office answering machines.

Thank you for your understanding and patience during this challenging time.

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As of 4 pm, March 27, 2020, Columbia County has 27 positive cases of COVID-19. We have received 291 test results completed for Columbia County residents. There are 96 under mandatory quarantine and 35 under precautionary quarantine. There are 10 residents with suspected, not tested cases.

Today Governor Cuomo announced all New York State schools will be closed until April 15th at which point the matter will be reevaluated. It is important now more than ever to stay vigilant and STAY HOME. If you do have to go out, don’t touch common surfaces (credit card reader, doors, countertops, shopping carts). Wash your hands for 20 seconds. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow.
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AN UPDATE FOR CLAVERACK RESIDENTS ON LOCAL EFFORTS TO COMBAT COVID-19

3/16/2020

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Dear Residents,

Our Board feels that is is prudent to take proactive steps to minimize the spread of coronavirus into our community.  As of Monday morning, March 16, the Town Office, including the Clerk’s Office, Assessors Office and Building Inspectors Office are all currently open, but please check often as this situation is subject to change as developments dictate.  Updates will be posted on our website and on the Town phone system.  There are no scheduled meetings this week, and decisions on upcoming meetings will be made in the near future.  We ask that you postpone any in-person visits to the Town Office while we remain open, unless it is absolutely necessary.  Thank you for your understanding and patience during this challenging time.

Also until further notice, All County meetings have been cancelled until further notice

Food Pantry Updates: As of this week the pantry will be open on Tuesday, However, food will be brought outside for you. There will be a table outside with extra items for those in need.  At this time, we will be using paper bags.  Please keep your reusable bags to be returned at a later date.  Updates will be made as necessary.
 
Notice from the Claverack Town Court - Court Closure

The court has received notification from the Office of Court Administration that effective 5pm on Monday March 16, 2020, all town and village court proceedings will be postponed for 45 days in relation to the Coronavirus public health emergency.

All Tuesday night court proceedings for Vehicle & Traffic Court, Criminal Court and Civil Court will be postponed until after May 1, 2020.

All cases already scheduled will be rescheduled and adjournment notices will be mailed.

The court office at this time remains open, but please check often as this situation is subject to change as developments dictate.  Updates will be posted on our website and on the court’s answering machine.

Thank you for your understanding and patience during this challenging time.

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STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY

As of Noon today (Monday, March 16, 2020), Columbia County Board of Supervisors Chairman Matt Murell has issued a State of Emergency has been declared for Columbia County. At this time, the State of Emergency includes one Executive Order that regulates public gatherings. The Executive Order states:

All social, community, and public events or gatherings, including Columbia County-sponsored events, where it is anticipated that attendance will exceed fifty (50) people or more, shall be restricted, cancelled or postponed. This means all social gatherings of more than fifty (50) should be deferred until further notice. For any meetings that are absolutely necessary, a venue should be chosen that can accommodate a six foot distance between participants. Citizens are asked to restrict public appearances to critical activities such as obtaining fuel, food, or medical care. When in public, please retain a six foot distance from your fellow citizens. Sound personal hygiene techniques should be in practice.

Read the entire State of Emergency Order here.

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From Columbia County 911:  Hotlines available to the public for COVID-19 (Coronavirus) related information. It's best to call your doctor's office or one of these hotlines for information, before presenting at the Emergency Room, clinic or doctor's office.
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As always, if there is an emergent need for care of any kind, go to the ER or dial 911 without delay.

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As of 4 pm on March 16, 2020, Columbia County has 0 positive cases of COVID-19, 3 individuals under mandatory quarantine, 9 individuals under precautionary quarantine.  We have received 15 test results completed for Columbia County residents, all with negative results. We continue to work closely with our local healthcare partners and community members on a case by case basis to evaluate testing criteria as issued by the CDC and NYSDOH.

We continue to monitor the national and state guidance and adapt our local response plans accordingly. On March 16, 2020, the Governor issued an executive order, the Chairman of the Board of Supervisors issued State of Emergency for Columbia County, and the Mayor of Hudson issued a Local Emergency Order. The New York State Executive Order makes the following recommendations until further notice: no more public gatherings of over 50 persons, casinos will close at 8 pm tonight, gyms will close at 8 pm tonight, movie theaters will close at 8 pm tonight, bars/restaurants will close at 8 pm tonight- except for take out. It is recommended that only essentials be open after 8 pm tonight including grocery stores, gas stations, pharmacies, medical facilities.
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