The North Country Chamber of Commerce is welcoming the announcement that, with 70% of New Yorkers now vaccinated with at least a first dose, Governor Cuomo has lifted most remaining restrictions and mandates on various business categories and on social gatherings.
"As we welcome this milestone, which is a testament to the commitment of our health system and all New Yorkers to embrace the vaccination process, we also pause to thank the thousands of small businesses across the North Country who are coming out the other end of this long period. We thank them for staying in business while working so hard under such difficult conditions, complying with state requirements even while losing money and sustaining and restoring jobs for their employees," says Garry Douglas, Chamber President. "We have proudly worked with hundreds of them over the past year to reopen and operate safely and to access support for their survival and recovery, and we are continuing to do so. One of the most lasting impressions I have gained from our work these last fifteen months is how dedicated our small business owners are to their employees, customers and communities. With steadfastness and sacrifice on their part, and with the support of not only federal and state programs but of our area residents who stepped up and maximized their local spending when most needed, we now have hope of completing the recovery process. Onward and upward!"
The North Country Chamber notes that it has been selected by Empire State Development to provide free technical assistance to small businesses, helping them to potentially access some of the $800 million in state small business grants recently approved to further assist those who still have expenses not fully met by the federal programs. Area small business owners are encouraged to contact the North Country Chamber for more information and guidance.
NOTE: The North Country Chamber continues to call upon the U.S. government to take stronger initial steps than it appears Canada will take in the near term. We continue to advocate that the U.S. start by expanding current Essential Travel definitions to include more family connections, more business travel, access to U.S. airports, and access to property including homes, boats and campsites.
