December 15, 2020 —Update for December 15, 2020
As you may have guessed from your correspondent’s silence, not much has changed here at Kendal at Ithaca. We’re in a holding pattern punctuated by daily reports of negative COVID tests for staff and residents. If all continues to be stable, we’ll be able to open the Health Center for visitation beginning December 22.
The other developing situation is a plan for COVID-19 vaccination. The first wave will be residents of Taughannock House and up to half of the staff. The vaccinations will be delivered during three separate clinics. The vaccine is given in two doses. Details are still evolving and we are beginning the education phase. There are appropriately many questions. Because the vaccine is being released under an Emergency Use Authorization, Kendal at Ithaca may not mandate that all staff take it.
On a much different note, Kendal is pleased to announce that, as of January 1, 2021, we shall purchasing 100% Wind Power from a wind farm in Texas (!) for 100% of the Kilowatt portion of our electric bill. We also have a contract to purchase power from a solar field that is being built in Fayette, NY. This will lower the demand and delivery portion of our bill. We anticipate a January start date for this as well. Imagine that wind blowing all the way from Texas to Ithaca, NY ! – just kidding of course. Be well.
Betsy Schermerhorn