RyeCity REVIEW THE
March 12, 2021 | Vol. 9, Number 10 | www.ryecityreview.com
Postseason bound! Players from Mamaroneck and ETBE battle in front of the net during a March 5 regular season game. This week, student-athletes in Section I will take part in regional playoff tournaments. For more, see page 16.
Photo/Mike Smith
Health Department issues guidance on sports spectators The Westchester County Health Department has issued guidance on the New York State requirements for spectators at school and recreation sports. The most dramatic change is that student-athletes are now allowed to have two spectators at sporting events, as long as social distancing can still be accomplished and occupancy is still at 50%. However, schools and recreation centers still reserve the right to have a stricter interpretation and stricter guidelines. Prior to this change, it was only two spectators per player for the home team only. “We are being consistent with New York State guidance
first and foremost,” Westchester County Executive George Latimer. “We understand that youth sports are family events, and the families of Westchester have been through a lot these past 12 months. We want the family to be included and we want the student athlete to be supported by their families. We feel we can open youth sporting events a bit more and do so safely.” Following the NewYork State guidance: “For spectators, the following additional safety measures apply: • For sports events (e.g. games), Responsible Parties must limit spectators to two
spectators per player. • Responsible Parties must ensure spectators maintain six feet of physical distance between individuals and/or family/household units at all times and all spectators must wear face coverings when they are in common areas and situations where six feet of distancing is not able to be maintained, so long as they are over the age of two and medically able to tolerate such covering. • Responsible Parties may facilitate appropriate distancing through the use of markings on the ground or seating areas, and other signage. • Responsible Parties must ensure that, among all spectators,
no individual group exceeds the gathering limit that is currently in place for the region. • Responsible Parties may facilitate appropriate gathering size through the use of signage and/or staff to ensure groups are aware of and adhere to guidelines.” “We understand that parents want to see their children play sports, this is a huge part of our culture and parents should be involved in their children’s lives,” county Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler said. “As long as social distancing is observed, and masks are worn, we can accomplish both goals—safety and involvement.” (Submitted)
Cuomo allows entertainment venues to reopen Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced on Wednesday, March 3 that beginning April 2, event, arts and entertainment venues can reopen at 33% capacity, up to 100 people indoors and up to 200 people outdoors. If all attendees present proof of negative test prior to entry, capacity can increase up to 150 people indoors and up to 500 people outdoors. Social distancing and face coverings will be required by all attendees, as well as strict adherence to all applicable Department of Health guidance. Cuomo also announced domestic travelers to New York State who have been vaccinated no longer have to quarantine or test out within 90 days of their full vaccination. The governor also announced that beginning March 22, residential gatherings of up to 25 people can be held outdoors. Indoor residential gatherings remain capped at 10 people to reduce the continued risk of spread. Also, non-residential social gatherings of up to 100 people can occur indoors and up to 200 people can occur outdoors. “New Yorkers have done a
tremendous job working to defeat COVID, and we’re gradually loosening restrictions as the numbers reduce and the public health improves,” Cuomo said.
“It is clear that if we remain vigilant, we will reach the light at the end of the tunnel.” –Gov. Andrew Cuomo
“It is clear that if we remain vigilant, we will reach the light at the end of the tunnel. While we continue to expand access to the vaccine throughout the state, New Yorkers should double down on the behaviors that make such an important different fighting this pandemic—washing hands, wearing masks and social distancing. This is a tough footrace, but the infection rate is down and the vaccination rate is up, and New Yorkers will get through this together as long as we stay tough and keep this momentum heading in the right direction.” (Submitted)