“It’s time to start doubling down on the preventative measures instead of loosening restrictions,” said Albany County Health Commissioner Elizabeth Whalen.

 As we urge our local highway departments to stay on top of the most efficient systems for distribution of salt, we note that each of us can make a difference in how we handle the ice and snow at our own homes or businesses.

With over 130,000 early and in-person ballots counted on Tuesday, Republican Richard Amedure maintains a 6.26-percent lead over Democrat Michelle Hinchey, 66,784 votes to 58,613, in the race for the 46th state Senate District, according to unofficial election results from the state Board of Elections.

ALBANY COUNTY — November is National Adoption Month, prompting Albany County Legislator Jeff Perlee, a Republican representing Altamont and part of the Hilltowns, to note the growing need for foster parents in Albany County, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis.

Despite political barbs from both sides, Andrew Cuomo, New York’s Democratic governor who chairs the National Governors Association, has raised largely unanswered concerns about the Republican Trump administration’s distribution plan for COVID-19 vaccines.

Albany County Health Commissioner Elizabeth Whalen noted this week that there are currently “increased rates in the community and increased severity.” She urged residents not to leave their homes for parties or other social gatherings. She also urged residents not to vilify people who have contracted COVID-19.

Assemblyman Chris Tague, a Republican, holds a solid lead over his Democratic opponent for the 102nd District seat, Betsy Kraat, according to the New York State Board of Elections early results.

Democratic Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara holds a narrow lead over his challenger, Republican Paul DeLorenzo, commanding 6,000 more votes as of Wednesday morning.

ALBANY COUNTY — Patricia Fahy, the Democratic incumbent representing District 109 in the State Assembly, bested her opponent, Libertarian Robert G. Porter, winning 68 percent of the vote on Tuesday.