FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 12, 2021
Statement from Mayor Noble on the
Anniversary of the City of Kingston’s Covid-19 State of Emergency Declaration
“On March 13, 2020, I first declared a
State of Emergency in the City of Kingston. We had our first known case of
Covid-19, a quickly-spreading virus that, at the time, we knew little about.
Earlier that week, we had been contemplating whether or not to proceed with the
annual Shamrock Run, and almost overnight, the world was shut down.
Since that day one year ago, we have had
1768 confirmed cases of Covid-19 and 46 fatalities.
We mourn those who have passed. We know this year has been painful
for so many. Many people lost their jobs. Parents had to find childcare with
young students at home. After such a brutal challenge, we can finally say that
there is light at the end of the tunnel and help is on the way. Vaccines are
becoming more widely available each week, and I encourage everyone to sign up
for a vaccination as soon as you are eligible. The recent Federal stimulus aid
will also usher in much needed support. We can see a brighter tomorrow.
While we know this virus is not past us, I am optimistic about the
future. I ask that we all hold on a little longer, refrain from gatherings with
those who are not yet vaccinated, and continue to be diligent with handwashing
and mask-wearing. Soon we will be able to resume celebrating our traditions,
enjoy a community meal together, and visit with loved ones we’ve missed so
much.
It’s difficult to fathom that it has been
one year of cancelled community events, Zoom meetings, and isolation from our
friends and loved ones. Despite being socially distanced, in some ways, our
community feels closer than ever. We’ve come together to support one another in
ways we never could have predicted.
I want to give thanks today for how far we’ve come. I’d like to
first thank the County Executive Pat Ryan and his team, who have reacted
swiftly and smartly to every new challenge the pandemic created. A huge thank
you to healthcare workers who were bravely on the frontline of this battle. To
all the essential workers who kept our stores and restaurants open during the
darkest times. I would also like to thank City staff, who kept the water
running, the streets clean, the snow plowed, and kept our community running in
so many other ways. I want to thank the Kingston Emergency Food Collaborative,
People’s Place, and all of our not-for-profits who stepped up to keep our
community fed and taken care of to the best of our ability during this
difficult time. For all those who have supported your community, your neighbors
– thank you.”