As reported by everywhere, including WHAM and Dutchess Business Notification Network, New York State has reached the milestone of 70% of people 18 and older having received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The Mid-Hudson region has reached 71.9%, as stated in Governor Cuomo’s press conference today (6/15/2021). To celebrate, the governor has lifted many restrictions, and has scheduled firework celebrations throughout the state.

Last year at this time, according to WHAM, the COVID-19 positivity rate was 48.16%, while today it is .4%. Also last year at this time, Governor Cuomo himself was complaining about unexpected firework launchings, as remembered by Gothamist: '“But it is somewhat unexpected that Cuomo would spring fireworks on unsuspecting New Yorkers considering the proliferation of illegal fireworks last summer led to lots of complaints...including from the governor himself. ‘You can be in New York City, it sounds like the Wild West at night. Even in Albany, I’ll tell you the truth. I don’t know what has happened,’ Cuomo said last summer, adding that he was so startled at night at times that he jumped out of his bed.”

Last summer In Beacon, Councilperson Air Nonken Rhodes also encouraged people not to launch their own fireworks, and continues to encourage no private fireworks into this summer was well.

Most importantly, however, are the restrictions that are lifted by Governor Cuomo, effective immediately. Federal orders related to COVID are still in place for now, which include masks for children indoors in school. Children and adults can be masks off outdoors, however, on school property. According to his 6/15/2021 announcement, the lifted restrictions are as follows:

Effective Immediately, State-Mandated COVID Restrictions Are Lifted Across Commercial and Social Settings:
Social Gathering Limits
Capacity Restrictions
Social Distancing
Cleaning and Disinfection Protocols
Health Screening
Contact Information for Tracing Purposes

Effective Immediately, State-Mandated COVID Restrictions Are Lifted Across Commercial and Social Settings:
Retail
Malls
Movie Theaters
Food Services
Offices
Gyms and Fitness Centers
Amusement and Family Entertainment
Hair Salons
Barber Shops
Personal Care Services
Sports and Recreation
Construction
Manufacturing
Trade
Child Care
Camps
Food Services
Real Estate
Buildings
Agriculture
Fishing
Forestry

Unvaccinated Individuals Responsible for Maintaining Social Distancing of Six Feet and Wearing a Mask, Per Federal CDC Guidance

Exempt and Still Adhering to State's Existing COVID-19 Health Protocols:
Large-Scale Events Venues
Pre-K to 12 Schools
Public Transit
Homeless Shelters
Correctional Facilities
Nursing Homes and Health Care Settings