The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Chappaqua Central School District

What book from your childhood had a strong impact on you?

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BY RONNI DIAMONDSTEIN AND ILLUSTRATED BY NAAVA KATZ

Katie Alvarez

“Hatchet by Gary Paulsen had a strong impact on my life. This was one of the first books that gave me that feeling of wanting to read non-stop to find out what happened in the end. I was on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. It jump-started my love of reading for the sense of adventure. The book delivered a great lesson on perseverance and the will to survive. It spoke to my spirit of being a problem solver and determination to succeed in the face of adversity.”

Katie Alvarez lives in Pleasantville and works in the White Plains School District.

Jessica Rappaport

“When I was four, my older sister Alyssa taught me to read my first book, Kangaroo Stew. My sister infused within me the belief that I was limitless, even when I was diagnosed with an ocular condition that left me legally blind in one eye. My first book opened me to a world where I would regularly escape. I eventually became an English teacher. Now it was my turn – I opened up worlds through literature for hundreds of students. I have always thought that books are an imagination gateway.”

Jessica Rappaport is an Assistant Principal at Seven Bridges School in Chappaqua.

Judy Willsey

“I was never much of a reader even though I was really good at it. My mom was a kindergarten teacher, and I was surrounded by books. But I loved reading the encyclopedia. I loved the little snippets of information and distinctly recall reading about this stuff called ‘gold leaf.’ So apropos as I am a professional picture framer who deals in gilded gold leaf frames every single day. So, there you have it. Catcher in the Rye. Nope. How to Win Friends and Influence People. Nope. Funk and Wagnalls. You bet.”

Judy Willsey is the owner of Framings in Armonk

David Helfenbein

“The Great Gatsby had a strong impact on me. I read it for the first time at Greeley and was particularly moved by the final line of the book, which discusses the relationship between our past, present and future selves. That line resonates even more now that I have returned to Chappaqua.”

David Helfenbein graduated from Greeley in 2004 and is now the Vice President, Public Relations at Burford Capital, the leading financial firm focused on law. He holds a B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and a J.D. from Washington University in St. Louis.

Ronni Diamondstein is a journalist, photographer, retired school librarian and the author of Jackie and the Books She Loved. She lives in Chappaqua with her dog Maggie Mae. ronnidiamondstein.com

Naava Katz is an illustrator who lives with her family in Chappaqua. naavakatz.com

The Chapters of my Life at the Chappaqua Children’s Festival

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I have, quite literally, grown up with the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival.

I was just 5-years-old when the very first CCBF took place, and it was here that some of my earliest and most cherished memories formed. Walking through the arch-decorated with festival-themed balloons, I felt like I had entered a whole other world – a world filled with imagination and creativity.

I browsed through countless books, selecting the ones that piqued my interest. Later, at home, I read those books 100s of times, imagining the words coming off the pages and the characters filling my room, thus the beginning of my love for reading.

The very next year I asked to volunteer for the festival with my mom. Even at the ripe old age of 6, I remember how good it felt to be a part of something that I knew was larger than myself. I loved standing at the information booth, greeting friends, neighbors and excited strangers, handing out information and maps and feeling the buzz and excitement surrounding me. I felt grown up and proud to be a part of it.

The next few years I remember it finally sinking in that the kind, engaging people at the tables ACTUALLY WROTE THE BOOKS! Thinking back, I probably took for granted that so many of these renowned authors lived right in my town! I watched in awe as they wrote a dedication to me, fostering a connection that is so rare and I was so lucky to experience.

My mom always said that the only thing you can never have enough of is books, and so many from the festival still grace my bookshelves. They will always be treasured.

I recognized the real impact an author can make. They plant seeds of wonder in the minds of kids that never stop growing. When I helped work the line for Pinkalicious – always a festival highlight – I was amazed by the never–ending line of exuberant young readers waiting their turn to meet their hero. I felt humbled by Victoria Kann’s patience and grace as she greeted every fan and signed books long past her scheduled appearance.

The next few years I had even more interaction with these esteemed authors, working as a greeter, and often escorting authors to readings throughout the day. I was so appreciative that these famous and creative minds would take the time to ask about me. These interactions gave me confidence in both conversational speaking and also inspired me to write.

As the years went on, and sports and activities made it harder to volunteer, I still made time to go – “graduating” to bagging and working as a cashier with my friends, something that I always watched the older kids do as an attendee. Each book I bagged or order I processed made me feel like I was making a difference, getting books into the hands of those who otherwise can’t afford them and planting those seeds of curiosity in their minds. Everyone should know the joy of a new book!

On the 10th anniversary of the CCBF last year, as an intern, I helped produce videos for social media after interviewing area businesses about what the festival means to them. The tasks reminded me of what this festival means to me – bringing this amazing community together, giving back, and celebrating a shared love of reading and books.

THE 2024 CHAPPAQUA CHILDRENS BOOK FESTIVAL

Join us as we celebrate our 11th year of connecting authors to readers!

September 28, 2024, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chappaqua Train Station

The CCBF, with over 8,000 visitors each year, has become one of one of the largest children’s book festivals in the country.

The annual event, which dazzles and delights readers of all ages, will this year feature 160 authors including Laura Numeroff (the If You Give a Mouse a Cookieseries), 2024 Caldecott Medal winner Vashti Harrison, festival favorite Victoria Kann (Pinkalicious), Dan Gutman (the My Weird School series) and so many more!

The Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival is grassroots, all-volunteer effort, with community members working together so children and teens can be inspired by their favorite authors. The festival gives kids and families a chance to meet and interact with the creators of their favorite characters and to appreciate that there is a real person behind the art and the words on the page.

The celebratory day includes food trucks, activities and more for all to enjoy. For more information, a list of authors, or to volunteer, visit ccbfestival.org or follow the CCBF at facebook.com/chappaquabookfestival

He Shoots, He Scores

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Townsend scores against rival Princeton.

Nick Townsend is a name that stands out among the students at Horace Greeley High School in the center of Westchester, where the sounds of basketballs bouncing on wooden floors blend with the excited conversation of supporters. Townsend’s story, from his modest beginnings shooting hoops in the driveway to his spectacular ascent to the Ivy League stage, is a tribute to perseverance, hard effort, and family support.

Nick’s older siblings, who dominated the floor before him, had a big influence on his early basketball interest. He reflects, “I was kind of around basketball pretty much as early as I can remember.” Both my sister and older brother played when they were younger.” The foundation for Nick’s entry into the world of competitive basketball was laid by his family’s love of the game.

Nick’s skill developed while he was moving through the Greeley hallways, guided by his coaches’ close supervision and the team spirit of his teammates. Particularly noteworthy was his sophomore year, which culminated in a successful run to the Section Championship. Nick won ‘Mr. Basketball’ as a sophomore which goes to the best player in Section 1. He shared, “Playing that song while walking out of the county center after winning the championship was a feeling I will never forget and really special with that team,” as he looks back on the incredible sophomore year him and his teammates had.

Not only did Nick play basketball at Greeley, but he also made friends for life and improved his talents under the watchful eye of committed coaches. Nick’s experiences in the Greeley gym, be it intense practice sessions or exciting game nights, have molded him into the player and person he is today. Nick was forever changed by the spirit of camaraderie at Greeley, more so than the victories and defeats. Greeley was more than just a school to Nick and his fellow players; “it was home” he said, from the backing of supporters crammed into the bleachers to the companionship experienced with teammates both on and off the court.

Nick’s commitment to Yale University, where intellectual rigor meets athletic brilliance, was made possible by his performance at Greeley. It was no easy task to juggle the demands of Ivy League studies with collegiate basketball, but Nick took on the challenge with his usual tenacity. “It’s true that being a student-athlete teaches you time management and priority,” he says, emphasizing the priceless skills gained both on and off the court. Nick learned a lot in his first two years at yale. He said, “Greeley did a good job preparing me for this”.

Nick has had two special seasons at Yale, fueled by special basketball moments and relationships created by team victories. His accomplishments this season were immense. Yale had some incredible moments this season, which ranged from thrilling experiences at March Madness to buzzer-beaters in the Ivy League championship. This whole journey this season for Nick cemented his reputation as a standout player and reliable teammate.

There were unique difficulties in making the switch from high school to collegiate basketball, as Nick notes, “Everything is boosted up another notch.” However, even in the face of increased pressure and unrelenting competition, he took comfort in the game’s timeless teachings. Nick muses, “It’s all about the hard work,” reflecting the opinions of his teammates, family, and coaches who helped him mold his basketball career.

One thing never changes as Nick Townsend’s narrative progresses, from the hardwood courts of Greeley to the famed halls of Yale: his unrelenting dedication to excellence and his sincere thanks for the experiences that have shaped him. Every stage of his journey, from the applause of home crowds to the team spirit, bears witness to the game’s transformational force and the unwavering determination of a young athlete with a dream. Nick went from not getting a ton of minutes for Yale his freshman year, to this year being a reliable contributor for the bulldogs.

Nick’s story serves as a reminder to himself as he looks to the future that success is not solely determined by points scored or championships won, but also by the character developed through hardship, the friendships fostered by mutual sacrifice, and the enduring influence of a well-traveled path. Nick Townsend’s legacy lives on in every jump shot, every defensive stop, and every win celebration. He is a living example of the strength that comes from pursuing a dream with tenacity and enthusiasm. He will always be remembered in the halls of Greeley.

The Back to School ‘Picture’ in Chappaqua Schools*

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Chappaqua School Superintendent Christine Ackerman. Photo by Carolyn Simpson

The start of school is right around the corner. As we approach the beginning of the 2021-22 school year, we look back on an unprecedented year during the COVID-19 pandemic with a renewed hope for the future. One thing we know for certain: this year’s back to school will look somewhat different than last. The majority of parents, students and teachers alike are thankful for a return to normalcy, in-person instruction, full classrooms and far fewer Zoom meets. 

In the spirit of hopefulness and optimism, but with requisite caution as the pandemic is not over, the Chappaqua Central School District is readying itself for a full return to academics, sports, extracurricular activities and the like this year. I spoke with superintendent Dr. Christine Ackerman to get a glimpse into the coming year as well as a look into how the district handled last year’s atypical school year. Ackerman has served as Chappaqua’s superintendent since July 2017. Prior to that, she served as superintendent of the Greenwood Lake Union Free School District in Orange County for three years. 

As COVID-19 cases continue to decrease and vaccinations increase, what is Chappaqua’s current plan for back to school in September?

“This September we will operate a normal school schedule. We finished last year with all students able to attend school for the full day on campus.  All students will return to our traditional classrooms, 3 Feet- Apart, K-12.  We also are prepared to shift to remote learning for all students at a moment’s notice.

I personally feel students learn best when they’re with us in school. As we progressed in the (2020-21) year, remote access dramatically decreased, and many students returned to on-campus. Very few children in June were accessing remote instruction. At this time, we allow students and staff placed in quarantine by the Health Department due to COVID-19 exposure or diagnosis as well as students who are medically fragile and unable to be vaccinated access our classes remotely.”

How might the District encourage vaccinations for eligible students and staff?

“As soon as staff were eligible for the vaccine, we shared and facilitated this process in partnership with the Westchester County Department of Health. At this time, students and staff cannot be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to attend school or to participate in our programs. However, we will provide opportunities for more flexibility for students and staff who are vaccinated as we plan forward.”

How are the new recommendations from the CDC requiring indoor mask wear impacting back to school decision making?

“All students, staff and visitors should plan to wear masks when inside our buildings this September.  At this time, the District will not require masks outdoors.”

As you envision a return to sports/extracurricular activities come fall, what special precautions will be in place? What will be back to normal?

“Last year Chappaqua held most of our high school activities. We held end of year concerts in a tent; the musical was held at Caramoor; the prom was on campus, as was graduation and all moving up ceremonies.  We used our outside spaces as much as possible. Chappaqua ran its entire sports program, with weekly Covid testing for higher-risk sports, to support those programs last year.

For this year, with the understanding of guidance provided, and based on what I know now, we anticipate being able to support a normal extracurricular schedule, including after school transportation. We will hold as many of our large events as possible outdoors and will hold our September Open Houses virtually via zoom for all grades.” 

Describe your experience thus far within the Chappaqua district and community.

“I came to the district in 2017. My daughter is entering 7th grade and my son is entering 9th. It’s has been a privilege being a parent in our district. It helps me support my children in very important ways and provides a lens into the experience here for students and parents. It informs my decision-making as superintendent. Especially during the pandemic, having two students living the experience you’re shaping for them with your team makes me stronger as a leader. 

My experience with our community, is that we are resilient.  We pulled together last year, all of us, to ensure the children of this community had the education they deserved.  I have always been impressed by our students, families, staff and Board of Education, and this pandemic affirmed what I already knew, Chappaqua Central School Districts is an amazing place to work, learn and live.

Whatever this year brings, we will work together to figure it out to ensure students can attend school safely every day.”

What have been sources of pride to you and the district during these challenging times?

“The district has been working on a strategic plan focused on six areas: Instructional Space to Amplify Learning, District Wide Assessment Practices, Social Emotional Learning Curriculum Alignment, Curriculum Alignment, Technology as a Tool to Personalize Learning and Equitable Affirming & Culturally Responsive Learning Environments.  The work we’ve done around social and emotional learning and instructional spaces prior to the pandemic have all supported how we would focus on learning in this new environment. I’m proud we were able to shift the focus and redefine the plan; we were able to support students in multiple ways and redefine curriculum based on their experiences in the middle of trying to support the community through this unprecedented situation.

I’m most proud of our administrative team, the teachers and staff under the support of the Board of Education and community. We were able to work through COVID-19 as best we could and position the District to open in September in a way that minimal instructional loss was experienced. It was hard to open and to stay open but at the end of the day, being able to help a 4-year-old out of the car and welcome seniors back for their last year was absolutely worth every moment for that. That’s the work. 

I really can’t take the credit for this either. If I didn’t have the administrative team with me trying and working EVERY weekend, supporting students exposed to COVID-19, all the logistics for opening, there’s no way this could have happened. The amount of work the principals had to do to open and stay open was extraordinary–especially related to COVID-19 exposures, calling parents, etc. They worked late at night and over weekends to make sure we were all safe.

It took everyone. Every person, every stakeholder group had a part in opening us up in September and making sure we remained open. It’s only because of that that I felt we were in a place at the end of the year that students had an experience where they were able to be in school as normally as they possibly could be.”

*Editor’s Note: The comments for the print version of this article were gathered and updated to the best of the author’s and editor’s ability through early to mid August for optimal accuracy inside our back-to-school print editions and to help us define a ‘New Beginnings’ theme. We appreciate Superintendent Ackerman’s time and openness to the Inside Press to achieve that goal and for several updates, including today’s. We also recognize that the news each day brings new revelations and of course impacts our school district’s decision making, sometimes profoundly. Please follow announcements from your individual school district to keep up with policies for vaccinations and mask wear and other Covid-safety protocol. Wishing families everywhere a safe, healthy and productive back to school experience!

Potential Coronavirus Exposure is Being Investigated Following Greeley’s Drive-In Graduation Ceremony

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State, County, Town and School Officials Issue Official Responses and Guidelines as Town Residents and Merchants Grapple with Concerns Over Revelations and a New Quarantine Order Directed at Graduation Attendees.

Despite Horace Greeley High School’s plan for a socially distanced approach to graduation, some people broke protocol, and today Gov. Andrew Cuomo directed the State Department of Health to investigate possible coronavirus exposures at the graduation ceremony and at related events which followed. According to a release from the Governor’s office, potential COVID-19 exposure may have occurred “after an individual who had recently traveled to Florida and attended the ceremony subsequently began showing symptoms and tested positive for COVID-19. Since then, four more individuals who attended the ceremony and had contact with the first positive case have also tested positive.”  Please read to the end for public statements issued by both The Chappaqua Central School District and the Town of New Castle in response to the news and to Governor Cuomo’s order.

POIGNANT REMARKS AT A DRIVE-IN CEREMONY

Editor’s Note: What follows is a story that was being prepared to run as basic coverage of the graduation ceremony prior to the above breaking news. It is a look back at an event that included heartfelt addresses to and from members of the Class of 2020…

Inside Press Photo: Horace Greeley High School Class of 2020 Drive in Ceremony

On Saturday, June 20, seniors and their families gathered together in the Chappaqua Train Station parking lot to celebrate drive-in movie style. There were two screens and a stage set up as cars rolled in filled with seniors in decorated caps and gowns. 

The graduation began at 8 p.m.when Horace Greeley Assistant Principal Lauralyn Stewart welcomed families and acknowledged the different setting of this year’s graduation.

President of the Chappaqua Board of Education and parent of a Horace Greeley senior, Jane Shepardson, said that if graduation was taking place at the high school under the tent, she would be handing each of the students their diploma and greeting them with a hug as she has known many of them since they were in preschool since her daughter is their age. 

“The graduation speech I wrote in June was certainly not the one I would have written several months ago. I had no idea I would be giving a speech in a train station parking lot during a global pandemic and would end up on a Jumbotron,” said Shepardson.“I obviously wanted to talk about something universal to all the seniors, but felt like I couldn’t avoid acknowledging that I had a daughter graduating with the Class of 2020, so my goal was to briefly mention it in a humorous way and then move on to what was relevant to all of them.”

Horace Greeley High School Principal Andrew Corsilia spoke about the silver lining of the time spent at home this spring- quality time with family. 

Corsilia said this kind or amount of time together is rare and that some families may have even had college aged children back home eating at their dinner tables. 

“As I looked out at the sea of cars, I found myself feeling proud of this class, what they have endured, and what they have accomplished,” said Corsilia. “After months of isolation from the school, I was relieved and pleased that we could provide them the celebration and recognition they deserved.  It was an unforgettable finale to an unforgettable year.”

The valedictorians gave a speech together. Each allotted 45 seconds, the 13 valedictorians felt it would be symbolic for each of them to discuss a grade, kindergarten through twelfth. The students shared a lesson they took from that age or a moment that stood out to them. 

Following the speeches, each student’s name was read as a photo of them appeared on the screens. Families honked and cheered for every senior and the environment was lively.

Once all the students’ names were read, Stewart announced she had two special surprises. 

The first one was that former First Lady and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former President of the United States Bill Clinton recorded a congratulatory message for the Horace Greeley High School class of 2020.

Hillary Clinton said that they understood that the graduating class’ senior year may have looked a little different but those changes do not diminish the accomplishments of the senior class in any way. 

“All your hard work, and the work of your families that got you, the things you accomplished, the friendships and memories you’ve made at Horace Greeley, you’ll treasure that for the rest of your lives,” said Hillary Clinton. 

Then came the second surprise, a fireworks display. Families poked their heads out of their cars to enjoy the colorful, bright display that celebrated the seniors. 

“The surprising thing to me was how personal it felt, even though everyone was in their cars. I think we were all so happy to be in the same place together after being apart for so long, that it actually seemed even more personal than a typical graduation at Greeley.  From what I have heard from the seniors and their families, everyone felt the same – that it was poignant and extra-special,” said Shepardson.

THE AFTER EFFECTS

According to the New Castle Police Department, an individual recently traveled to Florida before attending the ceremony at the train station. She showed symptoms after June 20 and tested positive. Since then, four more people who came in contact with the individual who traveled to Florida also tested positive. The student also attended a field night, a large gathering on multiple fields,  on June 20 that some seniors and juniors also attended.

According to Gov. Cuomo, anyone who attended the graduation, field night or other graduation events must quarantine until July 5. 

“We need to stay vigilant. We’re prepared to do the aggressive testing and contact tracing required to slow and ultimately control any potential clusters of new cases like the one in Westchester County,” said Gov. Cuomo.

The Governor also issued a new executive order that makes New York employees who voluntarily travel to high-risk states after June 25 ineligible for COVID-19 paid sick leave.

“New Yorkers have controlled the spread of this unprecedented virus by being smart and disciplined, and our progress to date is illustrated by the current low numbers of new cases and hospitalizations,” Governor Cuomo said. “But as we are seeing in other states who reopened quickly, the pandemic is far from over and we need stay vigilant. We’re prepared to do the aggressive testing and contact tracing required to slow and ultimately control any potential clusters of new cases like the one in Westchester County. If we are going to maintain the progress we’ve seen, we need everyone to take personal responsibility – that’s why I’m issuing an executive order that says any New York employee who voluntarily travels to a high-risk state will not be eligible for the COVID protections we created under paid sick leave.”

A letter to the community this afternoon from School Superintendent Christine Ackerman confirmed that the school has been notified by the New York State Department of Health and Governor Cuomo’s office that at least five individuals who attended our Greeley graduation ceremony have tested positive for COVID-19. “I would like to assure the entire community that we are working closely with local and state officials to support their efforts to prevent further spread of Covid-19 in our area. The safety of our students and our entire school community continues to be our most important priority. The Greeley graduation was a carefully planned event that strictly followed Governor Cuomo’s Executive Orders and all NYS Department of Health Guidelines. The District repeatedly provided clear guidance and protocols for families that complied with all applicable health and safety orders and guidelines. Unfortunately, at the event, and despite police presence, numerous individuals failed to follow our protocols. In addition, we later learned that one attendee, who had recently traveled to Florida, later tested positive for COVID-19.”
 
Ackerman concluded that she strongly encourages members of the Chappaqua school community “to remain vigilant. Continue wearing a mask when you are in public, wash your hands frequently, and practice social distancing. The CCSD Administration will continue to follow all medical and public health guidance for our school community, and we ask that all residents do the same.”
 
In a Nixel alert from the New Castle Police Department, there was a reminder about testing:  “As part of our public health outreach, the State and County DOH encourage testing for anybody who attended the graduation ceremony or the Field Night event and may have come in contact with an infected individual. For information about testing, please contact your local healthcare provider, or visit https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-testing.
 
The same evening, the Town of New Castle released to the community the following series of answers to questions received relating to the new cases and the Governor’s order:
 

Q: The NYS Department of Health (“NYSDOH”) issued an Order mandating self-quarantine through July 5th. To whom does this apply?

A:    The State advised that “Individuals who attended the graduation ceremony, Field Night event, or events associated with graduation, which continued into June 21, should extend their quarantine period until July 5th.” Although not mandated by NYSDOH, if after June 21st, you were at parties or other events without social distancing or wearing a mask, you should consider self-quarantining as well.
 

Q:    If I social distanced or wore a mask at the above events, must I still self-quarantine? 

A:    Yes, NYSDOH is requiring anyone in attendance to self-quarantine irrespective of whether or not you followed proper protocols.

 

Q:    Why is the NYSDOH mandating self-quarantine for those who followed the rules? Doesn’t it seem excessive?

A:    To best ensure the spread of COVID-19 is minimized, a blanket self-quarantine provides a more efficient way to identify those who may have been exposed and manage the potential spread. If you remain at home and limit those you interact with, it shrinks the “contact tree” that contract tracers must pursue.

 

Q:   How long will the self-quarantine last?

A:    You must self-quarantine until July 5th.

 

Q:     If my test for COVID-19 is negative, do I still have to self-quarantine until July 5th?

A:  Yes, even if you test negative for COVID-19 you must remain in quarantine. Not only can you later test positive, but according to the Westchester County Department of Health, you should test no sooner than five days of exposure or upon presenting symptoms. 

 

Q:  How will I know if I have come into contact with a COVID-19 positive person?

A:   You will receive a call from a contact tracer. It is imperative that if you see such a call on your caller ID you pick up your phone.

 

Q:   How will I know if the call is from a Contact Tracer?

A:    If you get a call from “NYS Contact Tracing” (518-387-9993), PLEASE answer the phone. Answering the phone will keep your loved ones and community safe.

A contact tracer will:

  • 
NEVER ask for your Social Security number
  • 
NEVER ask for any private financial information
  • 
NEVER ask for credit card information
  • NEVER send you a link without proper authentication procedures

  Q:   Where can I get more information about contact tracing?

A:  Visit the NYSDOH website at NYSDOH Contact Tracing and the WCDOH website at WCDOH Contact Tracing.

 

Q:  As an owner of a small business and an attendee of the HGHS graduation, does my staff also need to quarantine?  Similarly, if I was with someone who attended the events, but I was not at the event, must I self-quarantine?

A:    The NYSDOH Order only directs those who attended the graduation, Field Night and related graduation events to self-quarantine. It does not extend beyond that until if and when a positive result is received. As such, an individual with a second-degree interaction and who was not at the event need not self-quarantine. However, if the attendee later tests positive, those he or she was in direct contact with would have to self-quarantine. If you have questions or concerns, please call the New York State Department of Health hotline at (888) 364-3065.

 

Q:    Will the Town share the names of those who tested positive for COVID-19?

A:    No, WCDOH maintains the list and the names of these individuals is protected by HIPAA and not shared with the public.

 

Q:   For those not under self-quarantine, what should we do to protect ourselves?

The NYSDOH and WCDOH both recommend social distancing no closer than six feet and wearing masks. These best practices have not changed and remain in effect. Further, it is recommended that anybody who attended the graduation ceremony or the Field Night event and may have come in contact with an infected individual get tested. For information about testing, please contact your local healthcare provider, or visit https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-testing.

 

Q:  Will the New Castle Police Department enforce quarantine?

A:  The NCPD does not have a list of those in attendance at these events nor will the NCPD be proactively checking to confirm adherence to the self-quarantine. Simply, you know if you were there and so do your neighbors and friends. Do not be “that person”. To file a report of an individual failing to adhere to the quarantine pursuant to the travel advisory, one should call 1-833-789-0470 or visit https://mylicense.custhelp.com/app/ask . Individuals may also contact their local department of health.  The NCPD can only report violations they observe first-hand, but they can be of assistance and respond when needed. If they observe a violation they can also act.

 

Q:  But for social media, would residents and the Town have known about the COVID-19 infections associated with HGHS graduation?

A:    Yes, the Town is regularly in touch with the County Department of Health. Contract tracers are deployed once a person tests positive so that those potentially infected are advised and can take the proper steps to address their exposure. 
 

Q:  Will there be a “lockdown” or will the County or State implement similar measure as to what occurred in New Rochelle?

A:    No, facilities, parks, businesses, and restaurants remain open. There is no containment zone. Fortunately, contact tracing is far more advanced and efficient. Simply, New Castle is not subject to the same restrictions. 

Per Town Supervisor Ivy Pool and Deputy Supervisor Jeremy Saland and the board et al: “Please remain vigilant and adhere to best practices. Again, we will continue communicating with both the County and State to identify and address issues as they arise, questions we may have, and changes in policy should they occur. Your safety is always our priority. We have been in this together for a long time and we will see each other through.”