March 30th, 2020 4:34pm -SUNY Morrisville Announcement COVID-19 UPDATES FOR EMPLOYEES

Welcome back after our extended spring break, though the circumstances are certainly much different than any of us might have anticipated at the beginning of the semester. As students, faculty and staff adjust to distance learning, there are a few announcements we want to share with all employees.

NY on PAUSE extended to April 15
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced all NYS On PAUSE functions will be extended through Wednesday, April 15. The state’s nonessential workforce will continue to work from home until the state re-evaluates after this additional two-week period.

Essential employees continue to be defined as anyone whose job function is essential to the effective operation of their agency or authority, or who must be physically present to perform their job, or who is involved in the COVID-19 emergency response. On SUNY campuses, essential staff also includes individuals who are currently providing a vital service for students who returned to campus and are undergoing distance learning.

Nonessential employees are defined as anyone who does not need to be physically present to perform job functions, or who are not required to meet the core function and programs of an agency during this emergency response.

All Faculty and Staff Meeting
President Rogers will conduct the March meeting of all faculty and staff via video on Tuesday, March 31, at 1 p.m. The video stream is anticipated to be brief. A link or invitation will be sent to all faculty and staff on Tuesday morning.

Students on Campus
Less than 10 percent of the students who typically reside on campus are now here. The students who remain or have returned to campus are those who had no other suitable housing options to complete their studies this semester via distance learning. They number little more than 100 (numbers are still finalizing, but are not expected to change much). They are expected to abide by the same social distancing and hygiene measures all of us have been asked to observe as we seek to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Mental Health Resources
We recognize the impact that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, along with social distancing, can have on the mental and physical health of everyone, including faculty and staff. Please be aware of the services that are available and reach out to those designed to help.

Remember Swipe Cards and Keys for Access on Campus
Anyone returning to campus for a specific purpose or task may do so, if they have made arrangements ahead of time and done all possible to complete the work remotely. Most facilities on campus are now locked and require key or card access to enter. When returning, employees must bring their keys and swipe cards to access buildings and rooms as Facilities and University Police personnel are currently limited and otherwise occupied.

Air Compressors Turned Off
All general air compressors on campus have been shut down while staff are out. Those with a specific need for them to be turned back on can contact Facilities at 315.684.6065.

March 30th, 2020 -MECS Update

March 27th, 2020 -MECS COVID-19 Update Letter

“Community Statement” SUNY Morrisville March 27th, 2020 11:20am

We are aware of concern among our neighbors in Morrisville about students returning to campus in the midst of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.

More than 90 percent of our students have returned home and will not be coming back to campus. The few students who are here currently remained through spring break, which began two weeks ago.

The few students who are returning have been directed to return on Monday only, during select time windows and while adhering to strict guidelines to reduce any chance of exposure. These students will immediately move into single rooms and agree to observe rigid social distancing and hygiene protocol or they will be asked to leave.

To remain on campus, students had to demonstrate they had no other suitable location to go, home or otherwise. SUNY Morrisville is the only safe place available to them to complete their remote learning. Even though they are on campus, they will be doing their studies from their rooms.

All of this is in order with the directives and recommendations of Madison County Public Health Department, the NYS Health Department, SUNY system administration and the Governor.

No facilities on campus will be available to students for recreation or gathering. All of their meals will be provided as takeout only.

We encourage our students, as with all residents of Morrisville, to observe the standards of social distancing, good hygiene and remaining home or indoors away from other people, especially if they have underlying health issues that compromise their immune system. We have recommended short solo walks for exercise and to keep distance from others when they are not in their residence hall.

We are all fearful at a time like this. We are doing everything possible to discourage students from being on campus, and to restrict the movements of those who must remain because they have nowhere else to go. We all deserve safe places to live, and we can do that for each other by observing these rules and supporting efforts to promote individual, as well as community, responsibility.

March 26th, 2020 7:52pm -SUNY Morrisville Announcement CLOSING WINDOW FOR CAMPUS RETURN

Thank you for your help in making plans for residence halls for the remainder of the spring semester. It is helping us to reduce density of people and suppress the spread of COVID-19, the coronavirus.

Only students who have completed the “Student Plans After Spring Break” survey in Web for Students AND who have been notified (notifications go out Friday by noon) that they have been accepted to return to campus will be allowed to access residence halls after 7 p.m. today, Thursday, March 26. Swipe card access will be turned off at this time for those not registered and notified of approval.

No one will be permitted to access residence halls this weekend (except for students who remained during spring break). Returning students only will be allowed to return on Monday, March 30, during their assigned hour selected during notification.

No one may return to campus, even to retrieve their belongings, without express notification that they are allowed to do so.

Students who arrive on campus without having completed the survey AND permission to return will be asked to leave. Students who arrive will be screened to ensure they have no symptoms and no exposure to COVID-19 before they will be allowed in residence halls. They will complete a brief questionnaire as part of the screening.

Those arriving to stay on campus will be issued masks. Anyone who presents with symptoms, or indicates through the questionnaire that they might have been exposed, will be issued a thermometer and be asked to check their temperature twice a day, in addition to being placed in mandatory quarantine while testing is arranged.

As we are able, we will announce additional windows of time when students may return to campus to retrieve their belongings. We will request students to sign up for specific time slots, so that we can stagger arrivals and observe proper social distancing protocols.

Students who have essential items left in their residences, such as laptops or textbooks, medicine or other necessities, can contact Residence Life to learn about options to have materials collected, packaged and shipped at personal expense. As the details of those arrangements are developed, we will provide a form and a process. Please check Students/Parent section of SUNY Morrisville’s coronavirus webpage and consult the Frequently Asked Questions section for updates.

Students on campus who wish to retrieve packages from the campus mailroom must make arrangements ahead of time with the mailroom staff by contacting mailroom@morrisville.edu. Students not on campus should change their address with shipping carriers to alternate, non-campus addresses.

If students OR any guests accompanying them to campus answer YES to any of the following, they will not be permitted to come to campus, or enter residence halls, until they have completed a 14-day quarantine:

Has flu-like symptoms; or
Has been in any Level 3 country within the last 14 days reported by the Centers for Disease Control as having “widespread sustained” (with or without restrictions on entry to the U.S.) or “sustained community” spread of the coronavirus (www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html); or
Resides or has had close contact with anyone who has been in a Level 3 country within the last 14 days; or
Has been directed to self-quarantine, isolate or self-monitor for the coronavirus by any doctor, hospital or health agency; or
Has been diagnosed with, or has had close contact with anyone diagnosed with, COVID-19.
Please see the Students/Parent section of SUNY Morrisville’s coronavirus webpage and consult the Frequently Asked Questions section for details about staying on campus, retrieving belongings or leaving campus.

Thank you again for your patience and cooperation as we work together to reduce exposure and keep everyone as safe as possible.

March 26th, 2020 6:50pm -Community Memorial Hospital Facebook Page

In an effort to continually refine the process to optimize the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Community Memorial will no longer offer the drive-thru testing site.

The COVID-19 HOTLINE (315.228.3022) will remain active from 9am-3pm through tomorrow, Friday, March 27th. After 3pm, the line will be no longer available.

Please utilize the Upstate University Hospital’s COVID-19 triage hotline at 315-464-3979, or visit the Madison County Department of Health website https://www.madisoncounty.ny.gov/206/Health-Department after that time.

Please check this page for continuous updates.Thank you.

March 25th, 2020 -MECS COVID-19 Update

March 25th, 2020 4:33pm -Madison County NY Government Facebook Page

Madison County Health Department starting today will be posting a map of positive test cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19) of Madison County residents on their website.  The map will be updated along with the numbers on the Madison County Health website twice daily when we have positive results; once in the morning and once in the afternoon.

https://www.madisoncounty.ny.gov/2479/Coronavirus-COVID-19

March 25th, 2020 2:56pm -Morrisville Public Library Facebook Page

CALLING ALL RESIDENTS IN THE MORRISVILLE EATON CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT!!!  Let's put flowers in our windows and spread some cheer and unity in this trying time!  Make your own, hang fake ones, if you have real ones, hang them too!  Be creative!!!!

 AND, a super fun way to be with family, get outdoors and be socially distant during this COVID-19 outbreak-- If you have a flower in your window, take a photo and post it here so others can look at them if they cannot get out and about!  Let's all BLOOM together!!!  🌷🌹🌺🌸🌼🌻

Library Managers House March 25th, 2020 6:28pm -Morrisville Public Library Facebook Page Comments

March 25th, 2020 Library Managers Work at Home update

Via. Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=RrHPGs6L-iE&feature=share

No transcript available.

March 24th, 2020 4:35pm -Community Memorial Hospital Hamilton, NY Facebook Page

Community Memorial Hospital COVID-19 Testing
    by APPOINTMENT ONLY

In response to the community’s needs, Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) has instituted a drive-thru testing and triage program for the COVID-19 illness, in partnership with the Madison County Department of Health, and with the support of Colgate University and the Hamilton Police Department.

Starting today, this program will be weekdays, with operating hours posted daily, as times are subject to change.

WEDNESDAY 3/25: 9am-5pm

Due to a limited supply of tests, Community Memorial Hospital is following New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) recommendations to focus on only testing those with symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath) that fall into one of these categories:

1. Has come into close contact (same office, classroom, small gatherings) of another person known to be positive; or
2. Has traveled to a country that the CDC has issued a Level 2 or Level 3 Travel Health Notice*; or
3. Is currently is under quarantine; or 
4. Has already tested negative for other types of infections (rapid flu tests, respiratory panel); or
5. Other cases where facts and circumstances warrant testing as determined by their healthcare provider.

*CDC Travel Health Notice: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html

To schedule an appointment for the CMH Drive-Thru Testing – patients must call 315-228-3022 and meet the above strict criteria.

Should there be a continuing need for this program, open days and hours may be extended. For more information related to COVID-19 (Coronavirus), please utilize the Upstate University Hospital’s COVID-19 triage hotline at 315-464-3979, or visit the Madison County Department of Health website https://www.madisoncounty.ny.gov/206/Health-Department.

March 24th, 2020 3:58pm -SUNY Morrisville Announcement INFORMATION ON CREDIT AND REIMBURSEMENT

Dear students,

We want you to know that we are working quickly to resolve the financial impact this transition to remote learning will have on a student’s unused campus housing, meals and fees for the remainder of the spring semester while taking into account student’s financial aid awards.

Students living on campus and/or receiving a meal plan prior to the COVID-19 crisis must notify SUNY Morrisville of their intentions as soon as possible using the “Student Plans After Spring Break” survey in Web for Students. Refunds and credit amounts are tied to your participation in filling out the survey in a timely manner. Late or non-completion of the survey may reduce your refund/credit amount. Students who opt out of housing and meal plans will not be required to remove their belongings from the residence halls to receive their refund.

Students living off campus with meal plans will receive a refund or credit for the unused portion of their meal plans.

All students will receive prorated refunds or credits for certain other fees for services that have been discounted due to the COVID-19 emergency. The calculation of the amount of the refund or credit is being determined for each of these fees. The fees eligible for a credit/refund include:

Transportation fee
Athletics fee
Student activity fee
The category of “Other Broad Based Fees” as appropriate and approved annually by SUNY System Administration
As soon as additional information is available, we will update you. Credits or refund approaches will be finalized as soon as possible and certainly before the end of the spring semester. We recognize that this is a difficult time; if you have a critical financial need, please be in contact with the Office of Financial Aid.

Michael Blehar | Bursar
Office of Student Accounts | SUNY Morrisville
80 Eaton Street, P.O. Box 901 | Whipple Admin., 4th floor | Morrisville, N.Y. 13408
Office: 315.684.6069| Fax: 315.684.6261 | Email: BleharMP@morrisville.edu

March 24th, 2020 2:41pm -A Message from the Provost at SUNY Morrisville

Dear Students,

As you are aware, the crisis in regards to the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to constantly change around the world and within the educational arena. Currently, it is our intention that instruction will continue toward successful completion of the current semester, while remaining sensitive to the needs of our campus community. Please find below information and resources that we hope will help you have a successful semester. You also are encouraged to frequently visit the college’s COVID-19 Outbreak Communications webpage for the latest updates.

Advising
How do I contact my academic advisor for fall 2020 advising?
During this advising season, please note that advising and registration questions can be addressed by:

Your academic faculty advisor via their email address;
The Office of Campus-wide Advising (Morrisville campus) at 315.684.6335 or advising@morrisville.edu; or
Norwich Campus Academic Advisor Cody Gabriel at 607.334.5144, ext. 5062 or gabriecr@morrisville.edu.
Records and Registration
How do I find information on advising and registering for classes?
The Office of the Registrar will be accessible to students by email at registrar@morrisville.edu. Please check the Office of the Registrar website to find electronic copies of forms that may be needed (drop/add, student departure, address change, etc.) and direction on how to complete and submit the requested curricular changes.

How do I add a course at this time?
Students can add a course by completing the add form on the Registrar’s Forms and Documents webpage. Students have the option to add courses that have not yet begun. If the section has reached enrollment capacity, the student is required to gain permission electronically from the instructor and submit it to the Office of the Registrar via email at registrar@morrisville.edu, along with the add form. The add fee has been waived for the remainder of the spring 2020 semester.

How do I drop a class?
Students can drop classes that have not yet been completed by completing the drop form on the Registrar’s Forms and Documents webpage. The drop deadline has been expanded to the last day of classes, Friday, May 15. The drop fee has been waived for the remainder of the spring 2020 term. A grade of X will be recorded for all dropped courses.

Can I change a graded course to a pass/not pass grade option?
SUNY Morrisville is exploring modification of the current pass/not pass grade policy. Information will be updated when the final details have been decided.

How do I withdraw from college completely?
We want to see you succeed on your path to a college degree. Before making a final decision, we ask you to speak with your advisor. Students can withdraw from all classes by completing the student departure form on the Registrar’s Forms and Documents webpage. Students must process the withdrawal form by May 15. The grade of W will be entered for all classes.

What if I am not able to complete my internship?
Students should work with their faculty and site supervisor to make alternate arrangements for completion.

Tutoring
How will tutoring services be provided?
Information about expanded online tutoring (to replace face-to-face tutoring) will be shared when it becomes available. In the meantime, here are important webpages about online tutoring services currently available:

NightOWL online tutoring
Grammarly Info
Accessibility Services
How will students access needed accommodations to support their learning?
Accommodations will continue to be available for any student who requires these services. To learn about the various options, please refer to faculty instructions through Blackboard and any other delivery method provided. If you are experiencing any problems or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact our Accessibility Services offices:

Morrisville Campus
Dr. Marsha L. Cornelius
315.684.6349
cornelml@morrisville.edu

Norwich Campus
Lindsey Lefevre
607.334.5144, ext. 5060
lefevrlg@morrisvill.edu

Library Services
What library resources are available?
Please see the Library webpage for a full description of library online services.

Due dates for checked-out library materials have been pushed to the start of the fall 2020 semester.
All members of the Morrisville campus community continue to have access to all of our online information resources; use your SUNY Morrisville email login credentials to get full-text access.
Reference services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from your SUNY Morrisville librarians during our usual reference hours (see library website) and from the Ask Us 24/7 services when our librarians are off duty.
The Library tab in all Blackboard courses has links to library resources and information on how to get help from a librarian.
You can also contact us via email at library@morrisville.edu.
Career Services
What services are available through Career Services?
Career Services will continue to provide you the full range of services and resources you previously enjoyed — resume and cover letter reviews, assisting you in finding your best-fit career options and exploring careers, advising on job/internship search and transfer/graduate programs — but will now be doing so remotely, rather than in-person.

How do I access Career Services?
To schedule an appointment, email Career Planning and Development Officer Barbara Roback at robackba@morrisville.edu indicating when you are available for a conversation. You’ll then be emailed an invitation to join a conversation via WebEx.

You also will have access to Morrisville Connect powered by Purple Briefcase, our online jobs and internships platform. Please email robackba@morrisville.edu for detailed instructions or assistance with accessing the site.

Access our Career Services webpages for information on career exploration resources, such as What Can I Do With This Major?, CandidCareer.com, and the Occupational Outlook Handbook; workshops and samples of resumes, cover letters, and interview question responses; and a curated set of jobs and internships databases for Morrisville majors.

What additional resources will be available for our job and internship searches?
Several new videos on finding a job and internship by SUNY system were added just last week, and a new guide related to it should also be available by early next week. We’re also in conversations with a virtual interview preparation site, so stay tuned for that, as well as a schedule of web-based workshops available when classes resume on Monday, March 30. On Friday, May 1, we’ll also be launching Handshake, the leading jobs and internships platform in the U.S.

Mental Health Resources
How can I access mental health services?
The ongoing COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic and its accompanying consequences are a constant and ever-present subject of the news and other media. We recognize reactions can impact the mental and physical health of students, staff, faculty and others we care about. While campus resources are limited and Counseling Services have been suspended, we encourage each person to take care of their mental health and use some of the resources we have listed online. We know an increasing number of community members have loved ones whose daily lives and well-being have been affected by COVID-19. Please take care of yourselves and each other and watch our website for additional resources as they become available.

For any mental health crisis on campus: Call 911 for University Police.

In addition to the above resources, SUNY has provided the following systemwide resources in order to aid you during this transition. Please capitalize on all the resources available in order to increase the likelihood of having a successful semester.

Drop-in Support for Students Available Now
SUNY has organized live, drop-in, sessions via Blackboard Collaborate to assist students with the transition to remote course instruction. The goal of these sessions is to provide students with another resource to go to for questions about the basics of online/remote course delivery, successful strategies for participation, encouragement to engage, and even to address fears/concerns.

Sessions will be staffed by SUNY personnel familiar with how to quickly address common student questions about participation in online/remote courses, connect students with technical support for remote access to their courses, and point them to appropriate campus resources.

Staff are available, live, now to assist! Staff will continue to be available at the days and times listed below:

Monday - Friday 7 a.m. to Midnight EST
Saturday 10 a.m. t 5 p.m. EST
Sunday 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. EST
To join a live session, visit:
https://us.bbcollab.com/guest/73ee8680bb20494ca6181c2428e8a3f7

OR Dial in: +1.571.392.7650 PIN: 258 129 3907
A New Student-Focused Website
A website has been put together by the SUNY Online team that includes:

Resources for Success in Your Online Course
Resources for Active Military and Veteran Students
Mental Health, Nutrition, and Technology Resources
links to the Support Guides for working with:
Blackboard
Brightspace
Canvas
Moodle
Open SUNY Helpdesk Open to All
The Open SUNY Helpdesk is available to assist students at all campuses with technical support, including how to access their courses using online tools/technology.

Barry L. Spriggs, Ph.D. | Provost
Provost’s Office | SUNY Morrisville
80 Eaton Street, P.O. Box 901 | Whipple Administration Building | Morrisville, N.Y. 13408
Office: 315.684.6054 | Fax: 315.684.6109 | Email: spriggbl@morrisville.edu

March 24th, 2020 12:27pm -SUNY Morrisville Announcement EMPLOYEE NEWS ROUNDUP

Dear faculty and staff,

Thank you for all you are doing to adapt to remote work and instruction in such a swift manner during this challenging time. We know that our students are benefitting from this herculean effort to make sure their education can continue and stay on track, even as the world changes so dramatically.

We have a number of housekeeping items to share, including work-from-home / telecommuting plans, business continuity plans, live paycheck delivery, hourly worker time submissions, being on campus, energy conservation, a survey related to internet and technology needs, and a signal about cleaning efforts.

Work-From-Home / Telecommuting Plans
All employees not working on campus must submit a supervisor-approved, completed work-from-home / telecommuting plan to their supervisor and to Human Resources as soon as possible. Employees working from home should also provide a daily report to their supervisors, unless other arrangements have been made.

Continuity of Business
All offices should complete a continuity of business plan, using this Departmental Business Continuity Planning Guide. Copies of the plan should be shared with all members of the office, and forwarded to supervisors and the appropriate Cabinet member.

Live Paycheck Delivery
Per guidance from the State Department of Taxation and Finance, LIVE paychecks will be mailed starting the week of March 23, 2020, to the address on the paycheck.

Employees who typically pick up live checks should verify their address is correct in the payroll system with their payroll office and/or sign up for Direct Deposit. Direct deposit will not be affected and signing up is strongly encouraged. Any checks lost in the mail will likely have extremely long turnaround times for replacement.

Hourly Worker Time Submissions
Per a Memorandum from the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations, guidance on continuing payment for employees who are hourly has emerged. Student temp service employees are included in this guidance. Please set up plans with students and other temp employees working from home. The focus is on steps that will need to be taken in the next several weeks with the intent of continuing payments for those employees. Please ensure the general guidelines below are followed:

Employees with a recurring set schedule: Until further notice, employees who work a set schedule or less than a set schedule should complete their timecards (or have a designated timekeeper do so) reflecting their normal schedule and be paid accordingly. Hourly employees who work more than their set schedule should be paid for actual hours worked.

Employee without a recurring work schedule: Such employees should be paid for any actual hours worked as reported on their timecard. If that amount is less than their average pay for the two most recent pay periods, the employee should be paid for the average number of hours worked in those pay periods, unless actual hours work exceed the average. This guidance includes all hourly, temporary and student workers, unless there is a reason to end their assignment.

Being On Campus
Anyone who finds it necessary to visit campus to retrieve belongings, conduct essential in-person business or otherwise accomplish something that cannot be done remotely may do so while practicing social distancing and good hygiene. In particular:

Avoid any personal contact, keeping a distance of at least six feet
Wash hands before coming to campus and after leaving
Do not linger or stay on campus longer than necessary to complete specific tasks
Employees should seek to accomplish as much as necessary by remote means, such as email, phone, Microsoft Teams, video conferencing or other technology. Employees can make arrangements ahead of time to make campus visits efficient and brief as possible.

Energy Conservation
With so many people not working on campus, this is an opportunity for employees to reduce campus energy usage. If you visit campus, consider taking any or all of the following steps to help conserve power:

Turn off power strips
Unplug any electronics plugged directly into the wall (many devices use electricity even when “turned off,” including TVs, printers, chargers, copiers, coffee makers, microwaves, lamps, and space heaters)
Switch off all lights
Shut all windows and shades
Close all interior and exterior doors
Internet and Technology Needs
To better respond to SUNY system inquiries, and respond to the technology and internet access needs of students and employees, Technology Services has prepared an online Technology Needs survey. Please complete this survey to help the college and system better understand what can be provided.

Internet and Technology Needs
People on campus may soon begin to notice strips of tape across doorknobs. These tape strips (or lack of them) will help our cleaning staff know which rooms to clean.

You can help. If you open a door that has a strip of tape on it, discard the tape. This will signify that the room has been in use and therefore needs to be cleaned.

However, as more employees work remotely, the number of rooms not in use increases. A clean, unused room — one that has a taped doorknob — need not be cleaned.

This a simple measure, but an important one. A doorknob with tape on it opens into a clean room. A doorknob without tape opens into a room that needs to be cleaned.

March 24th, 2020 9am -SUNY Morrisville Facebook Page

March 23rd, 2020 -MECS March 23rd Update

March 23rd, 2020 5:01pm -SUNY Morrisville Announcement ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO RETRIEVE BELONGINGS OR MOVE OUT

Dear Students,

Thank you for your responsible efforts to reduce the density of students remaining on campus. We appreciate those who have already moved out or retrieved essential belongings for the remainder of the semester.

This reduces the risk of exposure and spread of COVID-19, the coronavirus, as well as the strain on our limited employees still on campus.

This Wednesday and Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., is the next window we can extend for those who have not yet done so.

Please see the Students/Parent section of SUNY Morrisville’s coronavirus webpage and consult the Frequently Asked Questions section for details about staying on campus, retrieving belongings or leaving campus.

If you have not already, please complete the “Student Plans After Spring Break” survey in Web for Students. Survey responses must be received by noon this Wednesday, March 25.  Students seeking to remain in campus housing MUST complete the survey to receive notification this Friday, March 27, about where they will be housed.

Students seeking to retrieve belongings this Wednesday and Thursday will need to bring their swipe cards to access the halls, and will have express checkout available by the Resident Assistants Office after clearing their rooms. Please contact Residence Life ahead of time, so they can turn on swipe card access and be prepared for student arrival.

Because of limited personnel and social distancing protocol, there will be no campus personnel or equipment to assist with any move out. Students will need to bring their own assistance with them. We ask that everyone practice social distancing, staying at least six feet apart as much as possible, and regularly wash their hands, cough into sleeves rather than hands and otherwise limit the risk of exposure to keep our students, employees, guests and neighbors as safe as possible.

If students OR any guests accompanying them to campus answer YES to any of the following, they will not be permitted to come to campus, or enter residence halls, until they have completed a 14-day quarantine:

Has flu-like symptoms; or
Has been in any of the following countries within the last 14 days:  China, South Korea, Japan, Italy, Iran and any other country reported by the Centers for Disease Control has having “widespread sustained” (with or without restrictions on entry to the U.S.) or “sustained community” spread of the coronavirus (www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html); or
Resides or has had close contact with anyone who has been in one of the countries listed above within the last 14 days; or
Has been directed to self-quarantine, isolate or self-monitor for the coronavirus by any doctor, hospital or health agency; or
Has been diagnosed with, or has had close contact with anyone diagnosed with, COVID-19.
Thank you again for your patience and cooperation as we work together to reduce exposure and keep everyone as safe as possible.

March 22nd, 2020 12:04pm -Madison County NY Government Facebook Page

Local health officials are following the NYSDOH recommendations to focus on only testing the people with symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath) that fall into one of these categories:
1.   Has come into close contact (same office, classroom, gatherings) of another person known to be positive; or
2.   Has traveled to a country that the CDC has issued a Level 2 or Level 3 Travel Health Notice*; or
3.   Is currently is under quarantine; or
4.   Has already tested negative for other types of infections (rapid flu tests, respiratory panel) 
*CDC Travel Health Notice: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html

Residents who meet testing criteria should contact their healthcare provider to get tested. This will ensure that we prioritize resources to meet the most urgent public health need.

Note: Individuals awaiting test results will be placed on quarantine to protect the health of others. Madison County Health Department will work with them to determine the best location and remain in contact until the results are ready.   

For more information, visit: https://www.madisoncounty.ny.gov/2479/Coronavirus-COVID-19.

March 22nd, 2020 10:55am -SUNY Morrisville Message from President Rogers

Dear students,

Governor Cuomo has now signed the New York State on PAUSE Executive Order, taking the strongest actions to date to contain the growing spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. Madison County announced its first three positive cases this weekend.

Specifically, the Governor announced that the State will enforce:

A ban on non-essential gatherings of individuals, for any reason, and of any size.
Social distancing rules in essential businesses (such as grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations and college campuses).
Limiting the use of public transportation to travel that is absolutely necessary, and social distancing rules of at least 6 feet during essential travel.
These drastic actions are being taken to protect the health of all people and save lives. COVID-19 is spreading across the state, and we have to reduce density to help slow its spread. This is vitally important in order to prevent the healthcare system from being overwhelmed.

In compliance with the new regulations, SUNY Morrisville reminds all students:

Only residential students who have been approved for a hardship exemption are allowed to be on campus or in the residence halls, beginning Sunday, March 29, at 8 p.m.
All other students will have their campus swipe card access disabled after that time.
Anyone who is not approved to be on campus will be sent home immediately, at their own expense.
No visitors of any kind will be allowed in the residence halls, and there will be a ban on non-essential gatherings for the foreseeable future, including in the residence halls and the remaining accessible areas on campus.
Violations can result in sanctions, up to and including being sent home. Off-campus gatherings in violation of these rules can also result in civil fines.
Social distancing and hygiene guidelines must be followed and will be enforced in the remaining open campus facilities, such as our grab-and-go dining location.
Remote Learning Period Permission to Stay Rules and Regulations
Please be patient as we navigate this unprecedented occurrence. You are being granted the opportunity to reside on campus when one or more of the following applies:

you have hardship considerations, defined as
Lack of housing security
Lack of food security
Threat to physical safety
you are an international student
you do not have access to the internet or necessary technology to complete remote learning
If you have not submitted a request yet, you must now do so through Web for Students, before Wednesday, March 25. Confirmation of the decision will be sent by Friday, March 27, to your campus e-mail. If your request is approved, you will receive a code of conduct and housing license addendum, which you must electronically affirm and follow to remain on campus.

While you reside on campus, you are expected to abide by all federal and New York State laws, SUNY Morrisville policies, the Student Code of Conduct and Residence Life policies (Housing Agreement).

Guests and visitors are always strictly prohibited.

Social gatherings of any kind or size are prohibited.

Violations may result in removal from the residence hall system.

Staffing
You will notice that Residence Life and custodial services will be altered. Please be very thoughtful and attentive to social distancing, hygiene and sanitation while you are on campus. We all need to work together to stop the spread of COVID-19. Students allowed to continue as residents are responsible for cleaning bedrooms and restrooms to assist in this effort. The cleaning protocol is here: morrisville.edu/coronavirus/cleaning

In-person Resident Assistant programming will not take place, but we will create ways to engage with you. Our professional Residence Life staff is here but will also be limiting in-person interaction. Their contact information is posted in your Residence Hall.

Food service and health services will be available, but limited. We are evaluating how they will be delivered as the changing circumstances dictate. In-person interaction is not likely. As information and plans are finalized, we will communicate them.

Student Conduct and Community Standards
Any student(s) found to be in violation of the Student Code of Conduct and housing license or the amendments imposed during the remote learning period, will be subject to serious student conduct sanctions and may be required to leave the residence hall for the duration of the semester. A form to be signed electronically is forthcoming and will be provided.

Student Code of Conduct and housing license or the amendments imposed during the remote learning period include:

You must maintain a space of six feet from others at all times, even in shared spaces.
You must remain on campus, only leaving for walks on campus by yourself, or to pick up food and essentials.
You may not host overnight guests under any circumstances. Visitors are not approved in the Residence Halls during Remote Learning Period (remainder of spring 2020 semester). Only approved residents are able to be in the Residence Halls.
You may not have another person in your bedroom. This includes students from other residence halls.
You may not consume alcohol (except as permitted in Morrisville Commons) or host gatherings where alcohol is served, even if you are of age during the Remote Learning Period. If you are found to be consuming alcohol, you will be removed from on-campus housing.
You may not take part in or host social gatherings. This includes hanging out in lounges or common areas.
If you are found in violation of the code of conduct, housing license or amendments listed above, you may be removed from on-campus housing.
Other Items of Importance
During the Remote Learning Period, you will see a reduction in Dining Services. Meals will be available for takeout only, and they will be from a limited menu.
During the Remote Learning Period, no clubs, events, intramurals or other gatherings will take place.
Stay Healthy!
Practice social distancing, wash your hands and, if you do not feel well, stay in bed and seek medical attention if appropriate (remember to call or message, rather than show up in person). Be considerate of others.

What can you do to stay well? Get sleep, wash your hands, limit your interactions with others, practice social distancing, study, read, go for a walk in nature, eat healthy foods, and watch TV.
Clean up after yourself in your shared bathrooms and use a shower caddy to transport your toiletries
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
Clean AND disinfect frequently-touched surfaces daily such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, faucets and sinks
Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, preferably using your sleeve (shoulder or elbow)
What if you don't feel well? Stay in your room and contact the Student Health Center.
Alternatives to Social Gatherings
Please be reminded for your and our health and well-being, in-person social gatherings are not allowed. This includes no clubs, events, intramurals, in-person RA programming or other gatherings.
So how can you stay connected? Use technology! Connect via text, audio or video using Office.com, Zoom, Group Me, Google Meet, Facetime, etc.
Check and read your e-mail throughout the day, every day. As circumstances change, our communication will be updated by e-mail.
Consolidation and Reassigned Living Spaces
One last thing, in consideration of health and safety, we are only allowing students with a desperate need to stay on campus. Because of that, we will need to consolidate all residents into specific locations. This will happen in the future and you will receive notice beforehand. We will share details as they become available.

To reduce the number of students in close proximity to each other, you may be reassigned to an alternate living space. Wherever possible, we will assign you to a single bedroom to ensure social distancing guidelines and safety protocols. If you are assigned a new room, you are expected to completely vacate your existing space and move your belongings to the new space within 24 hours. If you decline moving, you will be required to leave campus housing immediately and find alternate housing arrangements.

The college reserves the right (using established procedures) to reassign or withdraw accommodations for reasons that may include health and safety, non-payment of bills, student conduct (disciplinary) action, consolidation of space and administrative needs.

Limited Resources and Amenities
The Student Activities Center (STUAC), including the Fitness Center, Smooth Jazzy Joz and all recreational space, is closed. Only Mustang Alley will remain open for takeout meals during designated times.

The library will be closed until further notice.

There will be no transportation services.

The Student Health Center will be available for approved appointments only. Students must call the office and speak to the triage nurse before visiting the facility.

Counseling Services have been suspended until further notice.

Important Contact Information
University Police (Emergency): 911
University Police (Non-Emergency): 315.684.6410
Residence Life Main: 315.684.6043 and reslife@morrisville.edu
Student Health Center: 315.684.6078
Dean of Students: 315.684.6070
Madison County Department of Health: 315.366.2361
Watch the COVID-19 (coronavirus) webpage for updates and important information.

March 22nd, 2020 9:49am -Press Conference Announcing Madison County’s First COVID-19 Case

via Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EBXsGXDU9w

Transcript:
Chairman Becker: Good morning, I am John Becker the Board Chairman. As everyone knows we have had a positive case in Madison County.  We are here today to give the public some information. I’m going to turn the press conference over to Eric Faisst, our Public Health Director and Dan Degear, our Emergency Management Director then I’ll open it up for questions. With that, Eric…

Eric Faisst: Thank you Chairman. Good morning, my name is Eric Faisst and I am the Director of Public Health for Madison County. Yesterday afternoon, we were alerted to our first positive COVID-19 case in a Madison County resident. That individual is currently in mandatory isolation, my staff is working to identify any other individuals that have come in contact and those individuals will be placed in quarantine. Since this morning, we have received notice of two more positive cases. Fortunately, those two cases of people were already in quarantine at the time and will remain in quarantine. We will follow up with those individuals of anyone who may have come in contact with them.

We are also aware that there was a college student that tested positive. That college student tested positive out of state and had notified the university. We are working closely with Colgate University to identify any additional contacts the student may have had. And we are working closely with them and those individuals will be quarantined.

We are also working with our health care providers to expand testing sites. We are working on one for Tuesday and we are finalizing details to get that information to you. I do want you to know that the test site will be by invitation or appointment only. We want to make sure that only people who are at risk of COVID-19 are being tested and so it will be by appointment only. We ask individuals to contact their providers if they have any questions. Their providers will go through and determine whether or not they meet the criteria and they can be referred to that appointment. But it will be by appointment only. We don’t want to overwhelm the health care system and make sure we are testing only individuals who need to be tested. Again as a reminder, our message from the beginning has been: It is important to practice social distancing and good personal hygiene to help prevent the spread of germs. If you are feeling sick, stay home, contact your provider. If you are seriously ill, call 911 but otherwise call your provider first if you are feeling ill. Do not go to the hospital. We ask that you call first. We are trying to keep the hospitals from being inundated so they can care for the people they need to care for. Hospitals are still caring for people under normal conditions and we ask you to understand and respect that. For us to focus on those who are at risk, those individuals that meet certain criteria should be tested. We are focusing testing on people with the symptoms of COVID-19, that being: cough, fever, shortness of breath that fall into one of these categories:
1) come into close contact (same office or classroom) with  another person who is known to be positive.
2) Has traveled to a country that the CDC has issued a Level 2 or Level 3 Travel Health Notice; or
3. Is currently under quarantine; or 
4. Has already tested negative for other types of infections (rapid flu tests, respiratory panel). 
If you think you meet some of these criteria, please contact a health provider first and we will go from there. Thank you.

Dan Degear: Good morning, the Madison County Office of Emergency Management is still working with our partners in Public Health, County administration and County IT to ensure preparedness for what we are now facing.  My team and Emergency Management has been working diligently in supporting the supply need for those battling on the front lines. Supplies are hard to come by. The world wide supply chain that we are accustomed to rely on is now stretched to the max and then some. We are taking lessons from America’s greatest generation. NASA’s Gene Kranz said “I don't care about what anything was designed to do, I care about what it can do.” We are taking this lesson and currently identifying alternative solutions with supplies that are available. I would like to quickly thank those who are often forgotten about, the unsung heroes who are keeping our community safe each and every day. Their daily tasks have not stopped and now we are asking them to do even more. These are the professionals in EMS, fire, law enforcement and those in our Oneida Dispatch center. Here in Madison County, we are truly blessed to have the best in the business and we appreciate people keeping them in your thoughts. Thank you.

Chairman Becker: Okay, we are opening up to questions.

Reporter Questions: The condition of the three confirmed cases, do you have their condition currently? Are they feeling well?

Eric Faisst: They are feeling well. They are mildly symptomatic but they are feeling well.

 Reporter: Were there any connections to those cases and the confirmed case at the college? Do you believe there were any connections?

Eric Faisst: There is no connection.

Reporter Questions: What do you recommend for individuals who might not have an immediate health care provider or a doctor that they go to regularly. What should they do if they are feeling symptomatic or if they wish to get information about this.

Eric Faisst: There is currently a hotline at the Upstate Medical Center, we would have them call that for guidance. The Upstate triage hotline is 315-464-3979. They can start there. If they don’t get through there, they can contact us here locally at the Madison County Health Department at 366-2361 and afterhours we have an on-call service that if you call our main office, we will follow up with you as well.

Reporter: Can you please restate that the individuals that currently are in the County and are confirmed cases, do you have their ages by any chance?

Eric: I do not.

Reporter: And was that one individual yesterday and two new ones today?

Eric: We got alerted to the first one yesterday afternoon and the other two we found out this morning.  We received their lab results this morning. 

Reporter: Those lab results were from Wadsworth?

Eric: No, I believe they were through private labs. 

Reporter: Do you know how many tests you have pending? And are they all going through your department?

Eric Faisst: The tests don’t go to our department, we get the notification. We have 70 people who have been tested in Madison County. Of those 70 tests, 25 were negative, 3 positives and we still have 42 that are pending.

Becker: No other questions? Okay, I want to thank Eric and Dan and everybody, as Dan said, who are the unsung heroes who are still working—911, Office of Emergency Management, Eric and the Public Health Department. They’ve had logistical glitches but we are working with them. As we do in Madison County, we improvise. We are asking the public to do your part—social distancing, wash your hands, rediscover your family, go for a walk but keep your distance from other people. It doesn’t mean you can’t go outside or that the world is ending as we know it. People on Facebook want to know where these folks are from--it doesn’t matter. They are from Madison County and we need to pull together as a family, as a county, and get through this and we will. We just have to follow the rules, practice social distancing and keep your hands washed. Thank you.

Reporter: One last quick thing: any recommendations for the businesses who are shutting down tonight, the non-essential employees. Anything you would recommend to them?

Eric Faisst: We recommend what we recommend to everybody about social distancing. For more specific details, go to our Madison County website for more detailed guidelines for businesses and a variety of others, nursing homes or individuals. I would direct them to go there. That information is quite detailed and updated daily as we get new information. As you know, things change hourly and we understand and appreciate people’s concerns. We are trying to stay on top of that and give you the most accurate information. I would ask that you avoid getting your information off social media, and to look to people who do media for a profession--the CDC, the state and our local website. Thank you.

Chairman Becker: We are urging everybody to make sure they go to our official website here in Madison County, the State’s official website, or our official Facebook page to get the most accurate information. Any other questions? Okay, thank you everybody for coming this morning.

March 21, 2020 5:59pm -Madison County NY Government Facebook Page

Madison County Health Department announced today (March 21, 2020), that it has received its first positive test of Coronavirus (COVID-19). 

Currently, the Health Department has been in touch with the person who has tested positive and that person has been placed into quarantine. They are contacting individuals who may have come into close contact with the person. 

“We are closely monitoring the situation,” said Madison County Public Health Director Eric Faisst. “We understand that this will heighten the concern of many of our residents.  Please stay vigilant about social distancing and personal hygiene, please do not go out to public places unless you have to and contact your doctor if you are not feeling well.”

March 21st, 2020 10:51am -Morrisville Public Library Facebook Page

At this time, we are CLOSING our book drop. Please keep our items in your care until we reopen and DO NOT leave any library materials near the dropbox. We apologize for the inconvenience. The good news is that the MidYork Library System has extended all due dates until further notice!

March 21, 2020 7:21pm -SUNY Morrisville Announcement: MARCH 20 CORONAVIRUS DAILY ROUNDUP

Today’s COVID-19 (coronavirus) roundup includes information about living on campus, having packages forwarded, and plans for finals to continue.

Reconsidering Living on Campus
If you haven’t already, please complete the “Student Plans After Spring Break” survey in Web for Students to remain on campus. This is essential to our plans to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

We want to be very clear: SUNY Morrisville and Madison County will not be exempt from the pandemic. We fully expect there will be cases, and this is a community-spread virus. People living close together and in contact with each other is the risk, even for individuals who do not feel the symptoms. They risk exposing not only themselves, but others.

We also recognize that some of our residential students do not have anywhere else to live. Students should base their choice on whether they have no other suitable alternative, not whether they think they would prefer to be on campus.

Living on campus for the remainder of the semester will be sparse. 

Students will have a bedroom to themselves, but quite possibly a different bedroom than they had previously. 
Students will not be able to group together; therefore, guest and visitation privileges are suspended until further notice. 
Students will also be expected to assist with maintaining a hygienic environment protocol. 
Meals will be available for takeout only, and they will be from a limited menu. 
No clubs, events, intramurals or other gatherings will take place.
Per order of New York State Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, only essential workers remain on campus. All nonessential workers now work from home or other locations. This means many of the services and people students are used to accessing will no longer be available through traditional means, if at all.

This is part of the reality of our implementing social distancing and staffing fewer residence halls with fewer staff. 

Forwarding Packages
Students may arrange to have packages forwarded from the campus mailroom by contacting mailroom@morrisville.edu. USPS letters and packages may be forwarded to the student’s home address or another address that the student requests, at no charge. UPS and FedEx, who may charge for forwarding services, must be contacted by students directly to make arrangements. Please inform mailroom staff if any such arrangements are made.

Finals
Finals are still expected to take place, with each faculty member determining specific plans. Some faculty may choose examinations, and others may choose projects or other formats. Students should check with their individual faculty and consult Blackboard and Web for Students as the semester progresses.

March 20th, 2020 -MECS March 20th Update

March 20th, 2020 2:14pm -Madison County NY Government Facebook Page

Madison County Health Department is aware that a Colgate University student who returned to their home state earlier this week has tested positive for COVID-19.  The Madison County Health Department is in touch with individuals who may have come in contact with that student.  At this time the risk  to the public is very low.  Currently there are still no positive COVID-19 tests in Madison County.

For information about COVID-19 please go to https://www.madisoncounty.ny.gov/2479/Coronavirus-COVID-19

March 20th, 2020 11:38am -Morrisville Public Library Facebook Page

PLEASE NOTICE:

March 20th, 2020 8:17am -Morrisville Public Library Facebook Page

UPDATE: At this time, now that we have to be 100% off site, we cannot even do this. When it's safe again,  I might try. I am truly sorry....Stay tuned! Spread the word! We know you love your books! We will be putting out a book cart of books by the book drop soon for people to take and keep! (Leftovers from our book sales) We just ask that you only take a few and practice social distancing. (If someone is there, wait your turn in your car.) Hoping to do this a couple times a week starting next week, weather permitting. As soon as we know a day, we will announce on here!

March 19th, 2020 -MECS March 19th Update

March 19th, 2020 5:29pm -Madison County NY Facebook Page

For the most accurate numbers on COVID-19 testing of Madison County residents, visit: https://www.madisoncounty.ny.gov/2479/Coronavirus-COVID-19. As of close of business March 19, 2020, Madison County has no positive cases of COVID-19.

Upstate University Hospital's Triage Line is available 24 hours a day for all Central New Yorker’s who have COVID-19 related questions at 315-464-3979.

March 18th, 2020 -MECS March 18th Update

March 18th, 2020 8:20pm -SUNY Morrisville Announcement: ANNOUNCEMENTS ABOUT CAMPUS LIVING AND BELONGINGS

We have news tonight for students seeking to stay on campus, return to campus or retrieve their belongings from campus, as SUNY Morrisville seeks to lessen the spread of COVID-19, or the coronavirus, and prepare for remote learning only, beginning Monday, March 30.

We are strongly encouraging all students who have other suitable housing options other than SUNY Morrisville to thoroughly consider leaving campus as soon as possible. Similarly, we strongly discourage students returning to campus and ask them to reconsider.

Students with extenuating circumstances, such as lack of housing or food security elsewhere, or who do not have reliable access to the internet or accompanying technology, will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to remain on or return to campus.

Beginning at noon Thursday, March 19, students will be allowed to return to campus to collect their belongings, if they are choosing to leave campus housing for the remainder of the spring semester.

Retrieval will be open Thursday, from noon to 7 p.m., and Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Students will need to bring their swipe cards to access the halls, and will have express checkout available by the Resident Assistants Office after clearing their rooms. Please contact Residence Life ahead of time, so they can turn on swipe card access and be prepared for student arrival.

Because of limited personnel and social distancing protocol, there will be no campus personnel or equipment to assist with any move out. Students will need to bring their own assistance with them. We ask that everyone practice social distancing, staying at least six feet apart as much as possible, and regularly wash their hands, cough into sleeves rather than hands and otherwise limit the risk of exposure to keep our students, employees, guests and neighbors as safe as possible.

If students OR any guests accompanying them to campus answer YES to any of the following, they will not be permitted to come to campus, or enter residence halls, until they have completed a 14-day quarantine:

Has flu-like symptoms; or
Has been in any of the following countries within the last 14 days: China, South Korea, Japan, Italy, Iran and any other country reported by the Centers for Disease Control has having “widespread sustained” (with or without restrictions on entry to the U.S.) or “sustained community” spread of the coronavirus (www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html); or
Resides or has had close contact with anyone who has been in one of the countries listed above within the last 14 days; or
Has been directed to self-quarantine, isolate or self-monitor for the coronavirus by any doctor, hospital or health agency; or
Has been diagnosed with, or has had close contact with anyone diagnosed with, COVID-19.
It is not mandatory that students retrieve their belongings now. However, it is unclear when the next opportunity for move-out will be, before the end of the semester. There is an immediate need to vacate Fountain View Hall, and other halls may follow as the campus moves to consolidate housing for the remaining students on campus. We also want to prepare for any needs local and state officials might have for broader public health and safety.

We know this is incredibly difficult. We would love for nothing more than to welcome all students back to campus, where they could fully engage in applied, hands-on learning and enjoy the social life of shared spaces and experiences. We know that is just not practical, wise or responsible right now in the face of this pandemic. We are hopeful about returning to an active and bustling campus as soon as this fall.

In the meantime, please use your best judgement about coming to campus. Please continue to monitor your Morrisville email, especially Alerts@morrisville.edu, and morrisville.edu/coronavirus for the most up-to-date information as it becomes available.

March 18th, 2020 12:02pm -Morrisville Public Library Facebook Page

Miss us yet? Well, we miss you! Even though we are closed to the public, and the public cannot enter the building, does not mean that business stops! We are still here, working for you! We understand that many of you are getting pushed into using your devices for entertainment at this time. Do you have a question about e-books, our other online services, or your device in general? What about Facebook, Instagram, Next Door, Twitter, or any other social media platform? Also, do you have a question about COVID-19 or would like accurate and up to date information about it? Do you have any other questions that you would like answers to that we can provide? Or do you just want to chat electronically with the Library Manager or Library Aide Jennifer? Schedule an appointment with the “Triple Ds” (Dynamic Digital Duo) on one of our select days to do just that! Our upcoming days and times of availability are:

Tuesday March 24, 2pm-7pm
Wednesday March 25, 2pm-6pm
Thursday March 26, 2pm-7pm

Please email Michelle Rounds at mrounds@midyork.org or private message us with your preferred time to schedule an appointment. We will get back to you as soon as we can to confirm your time.

We will continue offering this service weekly until we resume regular library operations. AND, please stay tuned as we work out some logistics to possible allowing pick up of materials outside the building.  We know you can't live without your books and DVD's.  We are working on it!

Unpublished Article from Michelle Rounds for March 18th, 2020

Morrisville Public Library News

by Michelle A. Rounds

Library Manager

March 18, 2020

Did you know that we have a Facebook Patron Book Log group?  You can become a member of the group and get some great ideas of books to read!  You can also post a recent book you read and what you thought of it!  Go to Facebook and search for: Morrisville Public Library’s Patron Book Log and click join!  Viola, you are a part of it and can join in the fun!

Spring is coming and that means SPRING CLEANING and DECLUTTERING!  We sell Madison County Landfill Punch Cards for $15 so stop in today and get yours!  We also sell blue reusable bags that have all of our libraries listed on them for $5 each!  We can’t think of a better way to tote things around and/or use when you go shopping than a library bag!

This Friday March 20 please join us for Spring Book Creations at 6:30pm!  Come join Robin Branch-Staelens as she helps us create a spring recycled book creation! If you are under 12, please make sure to bring a parent with you for help!

Join us for Kiddies Korner, our preschool story hour, on Tuesday March 24 at 10:00am!  Help us have fun as we read about “Rain & Umbrellas!”  Stories, finger plays a craft and more!  If you can’t make that day, join us on March 31 for “It’s Windy”!

Please join us for our next movie night on Friday March 27 at 7:00pm!  Due to licensing restrictions we cannot share the movie but check out this link for more details: https://morrisvillepubliclibrary.org/events/movie-nights-the-library/. We provide the popcorn so bring the family and your own beverage!

Friday April 3 is our Easter Cards & Treats program at 6:30pm!  Come make 3 Easter cards and/or gifts too!  Cost is $5 per set of 3 activities (payable the night of the program).  Jackie Groves of Librarystampers Creations will demonstrate how to use stamps and other tools to create these unique items!  This is open to ages 12 and up (but if someone younger wants to participate; a parent/guardian must come too!)  We must have 5 people signed up to have this event, so please sign up now at the circulation desk!

We are open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 12pm to 8pm, Tuesday and Thursday 10am to 8pm and Saturday 10am to 4pm.

Found at: https://morrisvillepubliclibrary.org/news/2020-news-archive/march-2020/

March 17th, 2020 -MECS March 17th Update

March 17th, 2020 6:25pm -SUNY Morrisville Announcement: NEW DIRECTIVES ABOUT ON-CAMPUS LIVING, COMMENCEMENT RESCHEDULED, INFORMATION FOR WORKING-FROM-HOME

FOR STUDENTS
LIVING ON CAMPUS
New directives from the governor’s office and relayed to us by the chancellor’s office are to discourage students from returning to campus after spring break, until further notice. We are also aware of some localities contemplating “shelter in place” guidelines, which essentially would require residents to stay in their homes and keep outside social contact to a minimum to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

Students might wish to evaluate this information when determining whether they have special circumstances that would keep them on campus rather than going home or to another safe place with access to housing, food and technology. Students who wish to change their current housing arrangements – whether to leave campus, or return to collect belongings – must notify Residence Life. 

Students wishing to return to collect belongings will be notified at a later date and time of an appropriate time to do so. This will allow our limited campus and safety personnel to make the necessary arrangements to ensure safety protocol for all, including social distancing measures.

We recognize this is a change from messaging we sent just last night, which is evidence of how fluid the situation is and how quickly recommendations can shift. Please use your best judgement to keep yourself safe and healthy, limiting your own exposure and that of others. We want to keep the campus a safe place and return to normal operations as soon as possible, while also preparing ourselves to handle a variety of challenges that continue to arise.

Please communicate with Residence Life about your intentions.

POSTPONED, RESCHEDULED AND CANCELED EVENTS
To comply with the Governor’s directives of no more gatherings exceeding 50 people, as well as guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to limit groups to no more than 10 people, all in-person events for the remainder of the spring semester will be canceled.

Commencement will be rescheduled. Originally planned for Saturday, May 15, we will examine a date for later this year. We are tentatively considering Saturday, Oct. 3, to coincide with Mustang Weekend. We will provide updates, including on the Commencement webpage, as details emerge. 

STUDENT HEALTH CENTER
Students on campus who would like to make an appointment for either health or counseling services on campus, must FIRST CALL the Student Health Center at 315.684.6078 before coming to the center in person. As a precaution to help combat the spread of the coronavirus, all students will be asked pre-screening questions, before then being scheduled for an on-campus appointment or directed to off-campus resources as appropriate. 

FOR EMPLOYEES
WORK FROM HOME
Please be sure to submit a completed work-from-home / telecommuting plan to your supervisor and to Human Resources as soon as possible. This applies to all nonessential employees who will be working from home for the foreseeable future.

CONTINUITY OF BUSINESS
All offices should complete a continuity of business plan, using this Departmental Business Continuity Planning Guide. Copies of the plan should be shared with all members of the office, and forwarded to supervisors and the appropriate Cabinet member.

Employees who are deemed essential – those who must report to campus for work – will be notified by Human Resources. With a constantly shifting set of needs, this is fluid and some employees’ status will change accordingly.

CLOSURES
The Copper Turret Restaurant is closed until further notice.

The Children’s Center will suspend operations as of Monday, March 23.

MAIL AND PACKAGES
Facilities will be delivering office mail and packages, as well as picking up and dropping off mail from the Post Office, on Tuesdays and Thursdays only.

Campus mail will be picked up from the Post Office on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and any outgoing mail will go back in the afternoon (no office deliveries).

Receiving will be open 7 a.m. to 2 :30 pm. Monday through Friday.

If you need other arrangements, please call 315.684.6065.

More information will be forthcoming as our plans take further shape. Please watch your email, especially Alerts@morrisville.edu, and regularly check morrisville.edu/coronavirus for updates. The “Communications Archive” in particular will contain all announcements we distribute.

March 17th, 2020 12:09pm -SUNY Morrisville Facebook Page

As another measure in the college’s ongoing efforts to combat the spread of the coronavirus, we are availing ourselves of the opportunity provided by SUNY system to extend our spring break by an additional week. While we were scheduled to resume classes on Monday, March 23, we are now pushing back our date to resume classes to Monday, March 30. This will allow our faculty and staff the necessary time to prepare for this monumental shift in planning and teaching. It will also allow our students to become more familiar with what remote learning means for them, and make the necessary adaptations to finish the academic semester. For more information, please visit: https://www.morrisville.edu/coronavirus/students#break

March 17th, 2020 8:14am -Madison County NY Government Facebook Page

Updates:

- Wampsville DMV is now closed
- DeRuyter, Canastota, Chittenango, Earlville and Munnsville Village Elections are postponed until April 28

March 16th, 2020 -MECS March 16th Letter

March 16th 2020 9:42pm -Jennifer Forward’s Facebook Page

It’s weird seeing a place usually so full of life so empty and dreary. It’s weird saying goodbye to my home away from home and my escape from reality for an unknown period of time. It was entirely necessary and there is a large part of me that is very thankful. I can’t deny that I was a little anxious about the fact that I had absolutely no way of knowing where the books I handled today had been before I touched them. While we would have never seen this coming just one week ago, doesn’t change the fact that we can look forward to returning when it is safe to do so. Every day that passes puts us one day closer to reopening and putting this all behind us. We didn’t let the virus win. We didn’t give in or give up, we just became more creative...stay tuned 😏

March 16th, 2020 9:25pm -A message from SUNY Morrisville President Rogers

Dear members of the campus community,

Thank you for your continued efforts to isolate COVID-19 instances and lessen the spread of the virus. Several measures are in place to assist us, including some new and expanded ones.

Per order of New York State Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, all nonessential state employees will begin working from home effective Tuesday, March 17. To that end, all nonessential employees are directed to prepare a work plan to submit to their supervisors by the end of Tuesday, detailing their work hours and availability by phone, email and other messaging, for how they will continue work from home. A daily report of work should be provided as well. Essential employees should expect to continue reporting to work as scheduled or otherwise directed by their supervisors.

We are also availing ourselves of the opportunity provided by SUNY system to extend our spring break by an additional week. While we were scheduled to resume classes on Monday, March 23, we are now pushing back our date to resume classes to Monday, March 30. This will allow our faculty and staff the necessary time to prepare for this monumental shift in planning and teaching. It will also allow our students to become more familiar with what remote learning means for them, and make the necessary adaptations to finish the academic semester.

Students who are on campus are welcome to stay. Students who are at home or otherwise away from campus are encouraged to stay where they are, if possible. Please communicate with Residence Life about your intentions.

Students who are on campus will still have access to dining. To comply with the Governor’s directives of no more gatherings exceeding 50 people (especially controlling spaces where people eat), meals will be provided for takeout to avoid congregating in groups in dining halls. Additionally, the campus Fitness Center, STUAC gym and Hamilton Hall gym are closed until further notice.

Students who have already left campus for break and wish to return to retrieve their belongings may do so between Monday, March 23, and Wednesday, March 25. We ask them to work with Residence Life to schedule when they will be on campus to do so.

More information will be forthcoming as our plans take further shape. Please watch your email, especially Alerts@morrisville.edu, and regularly check morrisville.edu/coronavirus for updates. The “Communications Archive” in particular will contain all announcements we distribute.

We know this is incredibly disruptive for everyone. We know it is stressful. I am impressed by how well our faculty and staff are adapting so they can continue to serve students. I am encouraged by our students and their resolve to adapt as well. I am appreciative of family and friends and community members supportive of our students and employees in these circumstances.

March 16th, 2020 7:15pm -Morrisville Public Library Facebook Page and Instagram (@morrisvillepubliclibrary)

After much consideration and fact-based guidance from the New York Library Association and Mid York Library System, in consultation with the Governor of the State of New York, and in compliance with the Madison County State of Emergency, the Library Board of Trustees have decided to close the physical building of the Morrisville Public Library effective March 16, 2020 at 8pm. We will be closed until Monday April 13, 2020 and we will reevaluate as the situation unfolds. Please stay tuned to our Facebook page, website, signs posted on the door of the building, or our answering machine to receive updates on the services available despite the closure of the physical building. Due dates for any items currently checked out will be extended until we reopen. We will do our best to continue to be your trusted community partner for your individual information, technology, reading needs, and much more. We will miss you all but are excitedly looking forward to reopening to the public when it is safe to do so! If you have any questions please email the Library Manager, Michelle Rounds, at mrounds@midyork.org or call the library at 315-684-9130.

March 16th, 2020 5:50pm -Madison County NY Government Facebook Page

Madison County announced today that as of Thursday, March 19, 2020 staff numbers will be reduced and non-essential services will temporarily stop.

- Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) –
o Will be closed beginning Tuesday, March 17, 2020.  If you need services go to dmv.ny.gov
- Board of Supervisors –
o The Board of Supervisors Office is closed to public. If you need assistance, please contact 315-366-2201.
- Personnel –
o Office will remain open until close of business Thursday.  As of Friday morning, there will be will be minimal staff on site.
o At this point in time, only the March 28, 2020 civil service examinations have been postponed.  “Last file dates” stated on existing exam announcements will remain in effect. 
- Department of Solid Waste –
o Punch cards can no longer be purchased at the Main Office.  If you would like to purchase a punch card, please go to the Scalehouse at 6641 Buyea Road, Canastota, NY 13032 or to a designated local gas station vendor.
o Landfill and Transfer Station operations and hours will continue on their normal schedules.
o The Main Office will be closed to the public until further notice. Residents can call 315-361-8408 for assistance during normal office hours.
- District Attorney’s Office –
o If you need services, please contact districtattorney@madisoncounty.ny.gov  or by telephone 315-366-2236.
- Department of Public Health –
o The Department is working diligently on preventing and triaging COVID-19 cases and questions.
o During this time Early Intervention and Pre-K services will be suspended beginning March 23, 2020. 
o Regularly scheduled immunization clinics, rabies clinics and the Suicide Prevention Coalition event have been canceled for the next 8 weeks.
o The Department will not be accepting ticks for identification until further notice.
- Madison County Sheriff’s Office –
o The Sheriff’s Office will be taking extra precautions when interacting with the public.  Patrols and staffing will remain the same. 
o Also, as stated previously, there are no in-person visitations at the Madison County Jail.
- Planning –
o The Planning Department will remain open until the close of business on Thursday this week.  Beginning Friday, staff will suspend all non-essential functions, including local GML239m reviews. 
o Continued operation of the Madison Transit system will continue, however we are preparing for necessary service limitations or suspension if warranted. 
o Madison County’s Parks (Oxbow Falls, Nichols Pond, and Delphi Falls) remain open.
o The Madison County Career Center is prepared to remain open until the close of business, Thursday this week.  Clients to the Center are asked to utilize in person services only if they are absolutely necessary.  For those seeking assistance with Unemployment Insurance from the New York State Department of Labor, please follow this link: www.labor.ny.gov  or call this number: 1-888-209-8124 for assistance.
- Board of Elections –
o **update: NYS has postponed the March 18 Village elections until April 28.
- Department of Social Services –
o Please access applications for assistance (SNAP, HEAP, Medicaid and Child Care) online or through the mail.  Residents do not need to come to the Social Services Office for those applications. 
o Current recipients will be notified of any case changes and how ongoing assistance will be delivered. 
o For Emergency Needs (homelessness, utility emergencies and no heat), please call (315) 366-2211 first so that a plan can be developed to best meet those needs. 
o Services, including Child Protective investigations (CPS), Foster Care and Preventive case management, Adult Protective and Home Care, will all continue to be delivered by staff assigned to those activities. 
o All other services and activities considered non-essential will cease.
- Probation Department –
o Those seeking Orders of Protection through Family Court should not report to probation for assistance first.  They should proceed directly to Family Court to complete and file a petition.
- Highway –
o Highway department is open until close of business on Thursday.
o Beginning Friday, we will be performing essential functions only, including Snow removal (if necessary). All other non-essential Highway functions will be suspended. 
- Mental Health –
o Will not be doing face-face sessions with existing clients.  All sessions will be done via telephone.  If you are an existing client with either a therapist or doctor, the provider will contact you during the scheduled session.  If you have questions or need to re-schedule, please call the clinic and we will arrange it.
o After hours crisis line will continue to function as usual. Please call 315-366-2327 if you are in crisis.
o All clients who receive injections will be contacted by our nurse.
o Mental Health will not be allowing walk-ins for new clients as this time.  If you are in need of assistance, please call 315-366-2327 and a supervisor will get back to you.
- Treasurer –
o If you need to pay your taxes, you can still come in to the office to do so. 
o Non-essential services will be discontinued as of close of business on Thursday.
o If you need anything please call 315-366-2371.
- Veterans Agency –
o The Agency will be providing all veteran support regarding VA claims and other veteran concerns remotely. 
o The office will be closed to the public until further notice.  Please no walk-ins.
o If you are a veteran or dependent and are in need of assistance, please continue to call the office at 315-366-2395.
o All in home claims and related services are suspended.
- Facilities –
o Facilities will remain open for business even after buildings are mandated to be closed except for essentials departments. They will still conduct essential services such as cleaning.
- Canceled Events:
o March 18, 2020 – Rabies Clinic at Madison Fire Department
o March 27, 2020 – Suicide Briefing at Gorman Foundation in Oneida
o March 25, 2020 – Job Fair at Workforce Development in Wampsville