New York State Is Closed For Business

Yesterday, March 20, 2020, NY Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that now 100% of non-essential employees across the state are to remain home. Corona-virus/COVID-19 is wreaking havoc. New York City has been hit hardest, here in the United States. Onondaga county is also seeing it’s first cases of infection as well. People are being asked to stay inside; only leave home for necessities: food, medicine, medical care, etc. Reports continue to lament people who are just disregarding this protocol. They are going along as usual, putting themselves and others around them in harm’s way.

I have been home from work since Tuesday, a mandate by the governor. I’m super grateful that I am one of the few lucky ones who is currently on paid leave without having to use any of the time I currently have accumulated (personal, sick, vacation leave…). This tragedy has reinforced how truly fortunate I am.

Aside from taking mom to her MD appointment Wednesday, and a run to 2 pharmacies, and a stop by the grocery store with her, I’ve been home respecting what we as citizens have been asked to do.

Friday night I did feel the need to get out for a bit and still remain safe. So with camera in hand, I drove to downtown Syracuse and took a series of photos of empty streets. To be in Armory Square on a Friday evening and see minimal to no traffic on the roads, businesses shuttered, many which may be for good, it was eerie. While I was out, an ambulance whizzed by me down a dark, empty street. Its flashing lights disappearing into the void. I wondered where it was headed. If the emergency was related to COVID 19.

I did enjoy the fresh air and photographing quiet streets while listening to amazing music. I think this is a safe hobby that will allow me to get out briefly, stay safe, and as important, stay CREATIVE.

LaTrenda