As Governor Andrew Cuomo promised, most COVID restrictions blow away today after New Yorker hit the 70% adult vaccination rate. Worth fireworks? You got ’em. The launched across the state, last night.

By David Stone

The Roosevelt Island Daily News

COVID Restrictions Blown Away

Restrictions fell away on capacity, social distancing, cleaning and disinfection, health screenings, and contact tracing information. But they remain optional for retail, food services, offices, gyms and fitness centers, amusement and family entertainment, hair salons, personal care services, real estate, child care, movie theaters and other commercial settings.

Masks are still required on public transportation, at pre-K through grade-12 schools, in nursing homes, homeless shelters, correctional facilities, schools, and health care facilities.

But fireworks…

Yes, Governor Cuomo announced fireworks at 9:15 in ten places around the state, including New York Harbor.

Image from Governor Cuomo’s presentation today.

Rockets also hit the sky not far away in Nyack and Jones Beach.

And that’s not all.

Thirteen landmarks will also light up in New York State colors, blue and gold. Those include the World Trade Center, the Empire State Building and Grand Central.

New York’s coming back out as COVID restrictions blow away.

Enjoy.

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The Other End of the Leash

What a winter thaw on Roosevelt Island revealed about pigeons, geese, and the small decisions neighbors make

Eleanor Rivers Mar 20, 2026

The first thing winter reveals when it loosens its grip is not green grass. It is honesty.

Continue reading →