Pandemic Watch: Essential Workers
Since the outbreak of Covid-19 much has been said about essential workers. Much should be said about the dedication they take while putting their lives at risk. I have several family members who are doctors and nurses. I have heard stories from them. A few contracted the coronavirus.
I have friends who are EMTs and members of the NYFD and NYPD.
Thank you. Everyone has gone way beyond duty. I also have a few friends who work to keep our mass transit system running. Thanks for helping us get from point A to point B. We know the risks everyone is taking.
Perhaps you read my shopping post, “Grocery shopping during Covid-19. Or anytime.” We know the risks drug store and supermarket workers are taking.
All of these folks are essential to our everyday lives, whether it be during today’s times or before.
But are there more essential workers? Can we redefine it? Yes. Last Sunday, I was at Central Park along Museum Mile. “I didn’t think my job was essential. But everybody thanks me every day.” That quote was from a groundskeeper. He may not be part of the official list of essential workers. We know he’s not an emergency responder or providing us with our groceries. But he is essential.
The groundskeepers are keeping NYC’s legendary park in shape. We always need our parks to be well maintained. But in today’s times, that’s paramount. For safety reasons, we need parks to be clean. We always do. Today more than ever. With all our traditional sources of entertainment shut down, our parks offer a nice respite.
In addition to parks, some of NYC’s fine museums are partially or fully open with rules in effect to keep people safe while gazing at a Paul Cézanne, Claude Monet or Camille Pissarro.
Having been through the Guggenheim, the Jewish Museum and MOMA PS 1, I can attest that’s its employees are working hard. They have provided answers to many questions from visitors and are helping to keep our city alive in many ways. They are essential.
Thanks to our musicians for your Zoom streams. Many are at no cost. We’d all rather be watching you at the Garden. But thanks for zooming. I’m glad to have discovered a few new bands this way. Here’s to Brewester Moonface, kind of Janis Joplin sound. And the gothic Weird Wolves. The shot of the Wolves is a streaming show. The shot of Brewter was taken at the Coney Island Brewery on January 1 after the Polar Bear Plunge. Live music in the venue with fans is essential. One day it’ll be back. Thanks for giving us hope.
Today I did my last haircut at Astor Hair. Sadly, Covid-19 is causing the close of this NYC legend. The barbers are essential.
I know I left out many others who are essential. I apologize.
Thanks to all.
Originally published at http://mitchellthoughtsblog.wordpress.com on November 17, 2020.
