Broome County Executive Jason Garnar says local governments should have control over allowing gatherings like graduation ceremonies to take place instead of New York State as coronavirus restrictions ease. 

WNBF News/Roger Neel Photo
WNBF News/Roger Neel Photo
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The Democrat says he can’t understand why WalMart was allowed to remain open during the pandemic shutdown with “500 people in the store” but New York still won’t allow families and friends to gather for outdoor graduations if they number more than 150 people.

Garnar says the county received dozens of very extensive detailed plans from school districts that he said were well thought out and effectively addressed health and distancing issues but they were still denied the outdoor commencements by the state.

Some districts are still modifying graduation plans while others have already held their ceremonies or don't have time to make new arraignments.

One district quickly shifting to host meaningful ceremonies for graduates with Governor Andrew Cuomo announcing last weekend that graduations with no more than 150 people could be held outdoors starting June 26 is Susquehanna Valley.

S-V is planning a Senior Graduation Parade starting at Schnurbusch Park at 10 a-m June 20 and ending at the high school where the students will be presented with their caps and gowns and their senior banner currently hanging on the school fence.  Then, on the 26th, seniors will receive their diplomas at ceremonies..FOUR of them.. at the high school.  The class is being divided into groups to comply with the attendance limits. The ceremonies will be at 5:30, 6:30, 7:30 and 8:30.

SV High School Grad Salutes 2020

 

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