This week, Governor Andrew Cuomo extended the state’s “pause” to at least May 15 — keeping schools and nonessential businesses shut — and also has outlined a plan to “un-pause” New York.

We should not resort to politics as usual but rather insist that our elected representatives in federal government work together to be sure resources are spent wisely and delivered equitably.

Is a year-long COVID-caused depression with an unemployment rate not seen since 1940, the year before the United States entered World War II, within the realm of possibility?

ALBANY COUNTY — The statewide “pause” — shutting nonessential businesses and prohibiting gatherings — is extended until at least May 15, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Thursday.

The closure is in concert with neighboring states.

WESTERLO — “After a courageous battle with lung cancer, Willie passed away on Monday, April 13, 2020 at St. Peter’s Hospital,” his family wrote in a tribute. “As with so many others during these coronavirus times, it was so frustrating not being able to be by his side.” He was 61.

“On March 27, 2020 our dear son, husband, and brother, Lee, of Glenville, New York passed away after fighting a battle with metastatic cancer and mental illness,” his family wrote in a tribute.

James Richard Patnode, a resident of Queensbury who grew up in Guilderland, died at home on Sunday, April 12, 2020, following an extensive cardiac history, surrounded by his wife and family. He was 75.

He was born on March 27, 1945 in Burlington, Vermont and was the son of the late Richard and Eleanor (née Morrell) Patnode.

COVID-19 testing will start Thursday in high-needs neighborhoods in Albany County.