Ash Wednesday Gloom and Hope

I am convinced that not one religion, but only medical findings can help here...

I totally agree !!!

William…. la vie est un éternel recommencement
dans le bien… mais aussi dans le mal…
si nous devons le subir...
ce sera notre destin à nous TOUS
en attendons … Vivons … et ne soyons pas mort avant de l'être..!

Une belle intention pour un éveil de conscience,priez c'est bien mais prendre ses précautions c'est encore mieux..Nos autorités algériennes ont annoncé mardi l’identification d’un premier cas de coronavirus dans le pays. Il s’agit d’un ressortissant italien arrivé à Alger le 17 février.
Le dispositif de surveillance et d’alerte mis en place au niveau national a permis de détecter deux cas, âgés de 55 et 61 ans, répondant à la définition de cas suspect ..Comme vous le dites si bien,le monde est vraiment malade,sans parler des perturbations environnementales et les changements climatiques..Après ce qui vient de se passer ,nos gouvernants répondent positivement au coronavirus de peur que ça ne se propage de plus en plus..!

The corona viruses are highly variable.
Now ... by the end of February,
seven human-pathogenic coronaviruses are known.
SARS-CoV-2, was completely unknown until then and triggered COVID-19.
From this, one can protect oneself, as from any influenza.
Always wash your hands (including your wrists) for at least 20 seconds.
Disinfecting!
And do not open doors with your palms as much as possible.
Also do not press any buttons directly with your fingers.
Very important! Do not reach into your face repeatedly.
Avoid shaking hands and decide for yourself whether you should visit
public places like parties or cinemas.
The virus spreads through contact.

And most importantly... don't panic, and don't let yourself be driven crazy.

Viruses survive in our genetic material for thousands of years.
They make us who we are and our right to live on Earth.
They make us immune.
If you look at it that way, then our genome is not 100% human.
As long as evolution is ongoing, we are subject to change.
Because nature will always find a way.

Good, factual information, also with regard to the effect of viruses etc. on our organism/genome. Let's hope that as many people as possible have access to such information to counter further scaremongering. Thank you, Katja.

very actual image ........

Thank you Udo, Roland, Malik, Katja, and Damir. Udo -- Science, medicine, good hygiene, and proper precautions are the key to solving this; I simply tied in the spreading gloom with the Ash Wednesday holiday with the addition of hope. Prayers also help such as by lifting morale and optimism. I agree Roland, "Lets live!" Malik, it's disappointing to hear Algeria now has its first cases. Hopefully the healthcare facilities can manage the coronavirus and it will be limited to just these two patients. Excellent info Katja. The world needs to take a step back from fear.

yes William
we are in a bad situation all over the world, interconnected and ....who knows what future brings!
impressive work!

Let's cross our fingers !!

As you say, good hygiene and proper precautions will help to get rid of this virus and searchers will find a solution, I am sure. When we look at the past, we can note that humankind has survived to many epidemics . They are so many diseases against which we have to fight, especially cancer, but we have to be confident in the medicine which has made so many progresses. Lets live!!!!!!!!

Thank you Annemarie, Jaap, and Marie-claire!

beau traitement

A great piece of work, which actually reminds of past epidemics and illustrates the current fear of many people of SARS-CoV-2.

In view of the comparatively large number of victims of influenza, I don't yet like to call SARS-CoV-2 the "Black Death of 2020". However, the support "from above" can give courage, strength and hope to all frightened people.

Very moving story telling image William. Love the colors and processing effect as well.

La peur n'évite pas le danger quand à l'avenir restons optimiste !

Impressive work!

Interesting photo and comments.

This picture and creative work is perfect for the concerns over this wider-spread virus. NICE JOB!

The worst thing is that we don't know the parameters of the virus or if it will mutate into something more dangerous. Each of us bears the responsibility of being as sanitary as possible--and that goes without saying, virus or not. The fact is that the flu makes any of the corona viruses seem like nothing in comparison However, media is having a field day and bringing the world crashing down around it in the process.

Yes, we must be careful about our cleanliness.
Yes, we should stay home if we get sick and not venture out until we are well.
But this should be normal behavior.

Cold and flu diminishes as spring takes hold. Knowledgeable folk predict that this virus, like other winter-prevalent sicknesses, will abate come March and April. Let us see. And when the dust settles, I will bet that when compared to the flu, the flu will make the corona virus seem like a simple cold for all but the elderly and respiratory/immune system-challenged.

Thank you neira-Dan, * ઇઉ *, Frank, Jocelyne, Jadviga, Ron, Janet, Mariano, and Proxar!

* ઇઉ * -- While COVID-19 doesn't statistically come close to Black Death in the 14th century, its fear factor promoted by the media and plunging stock markets certainly does. Heck, one person said to me today, "We're all gonna die!" She was actually scared and truly believed this is the end of the world. :(

Janet, let's hope COVID-19 does indeed disappear with the warmer weather and good sanitary practices go a long way.

Please don't be too sad, William. The media and plunging stock markets, which stir up fears and induce people to panic buying, act irresponsibly and profit-oriented, but their profits will not last, and even frightened people like the person in question will see through this perfidious game when the time comes.

Crossing my fingers...

Meanwhile, a case showed up in Portland, Oregon (all the way north, we are all the way south) and it's another disturbing case of not knowing how it was transmitted... *nibbles fingernails*...

Thanks for your visits, William.

Have a good day.

Thank you Ron and Rosea!

a catching eyes picture for a great message !

Very clear message William, world travel can also have it's downside

A remarkable shot, William.
I like your explanatory text and the comments on this photo!

Thank you Nora, Roger, and Rainer!

Vos photos de choc sans discrimination / Tus fotos de choque indiscriminado
www.ipernity.com/group/2448422

Photos avec un message, une alerte , une émotion, un symbole, une réflexion, une drôlerie
www.ipernity.com/group/2401946

Thank you Ron!

Having become politically aware at about the time of Kennedy and the 'Cuba Crisis' and having lived since then with the possibility of nuclear desolation somewhere in the background, I find it ironic to think that now all we have to do is to breath on one another … Let's stick to the message of hope!

I believe, I deeply believe that - already - abstaining from giving our vote to the person who will take over this political circus will have real meaning.
After... Come what may. The people will decide.

Beautiful metaphor, sober and striking composition.

A very somber image.

Qué buena idea y qué bien plasmada. Tomemoslo con humor y sentido común siguiendo las indicaciones de las autoridades sanitarias sin obsesionarnos en demasía.

Thank you John, Eric, Esther, and Marije!

Very nice William. :-) Great idea too.

:-)
Doomed we be, young master! Doomed... Doomed... I've got a touch of the dooms!
(Kenneth Williams, in a very old " 'Round the Horne" episode.)
If I can find it again, I'll send you the pic of an Italian train with a mask.
Other than "don't panic", is also a good idea to get things in proportion: 6,000 people died last year, in Spain alone, of common or garden flu. I didn't see any paranoid hoo-ha about it at all, anywhere, by the MSM. :-) x 2

♥Spécial Macro & Gros plans♥
www.ipernity.com/group/2329366

Thank you Gary, Dolores, and Ron! And yes, don't panic and no need for some to resort to medieval thinking attacking vehicles carrying some of the sick or to burn hospitals treating them as has sadly already happened. Healthy or not, we are all human.

I can fully understand that lady who believes that it could be the end of this world. It is very easy to imagine such a scenario.
It's to be hoped the media exaggerate ... or that people will behave responsibly and will be very careful in what to do or not, or that an effective drug will be found ...
It's sure a rather difficult time to cross, William.

Christiane,

In one aspect I can also understand that woman's concerns. The USA may be in the same camp and China and Iran -- concealing cases and suppressing statistics. Autopsy results show the first reported fatality in Washington State from an "unknown" origin had coronavirus consistent with that in Wuhan and that it had been in the USA for at least 6 weeks, which explains why the source of his infection cannot be tracked down. There are now too many unreported cases in America.

Second, our healthcare system lacks the capacity to treat a large volume of cases. Facemasks, protective clothing and even basic sanitizer that had been well stocked after the H1N1 pandemic have been depleted over the years with successive (Obama and Trump) administrations considering it a low priority to replenish them since there was no crisis. Ventilator capacity had never been increased to prepare for large demand of serious respiratory illnesses --> perhaps one reason flu deaths remain unacceptably high.

Third, despite thousands of suspected cases in the USA as of now, less than 400 people have been actually tested with the vast majority being told to stay home, treat themselves, and self-quarantine. Worse yet, for weeks the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) have rejected providing tests for some people suffering symptoms as was the case with the first "unknown" origin case in California. Perhaps if we don't know about it, don't see it, it will go away and won't harm us! Consequently, spread is then promoted through refusal/failure to test, under-treatment and partial isolation and statistics are under-reported. Even deaths from respiratory failure will state just that instead of actual cause such as COVID-19.

Fourth, inconsistent and contradictory press conferences here in the USA don't help either and erode confidence. Worse yet it seems like the main reason for these briefings are to stabilize the markets (down 11% 24-28 February 2020) rather than protect peoples' health. Unlike some countries, the USA still has no awareness campaign with posters to provide reminders on how to avoid COVID-19 in public areas or on public transport vehicles. With lack of confidence, it is no wonder stores are beginning to see empty shelves when it comes to essentials such as non-perishables, sanitizer, and bleach and face masks and other protective PPE (personal protective equipment) are sold out in America.

Thus a cure and vaccine are the best hope but likely a year away at a minimum if usual bureaucratic hurdles are waived. In the meantime one can only take precautions and yes, contrary to what government bureaucrats are saying, should include acquisition of a facemask when possible (since if one family member gets sick others will need them since it's impractical and immoral to throw them out of the house to avoid contagion and everyone will be infected if one family members comes down with it, and they do provide real protection if N-95 rated as well as psychological comfort) and even safety glasses to keep droplets out of the eyes, and hope for the best. Still as humans have survived pandemics and disease in the past, we will survive this too!

Thanks for this long reply, William.
Must recognize that I never heard something about the U.S.A. at the radio here. But my husband remembers having heard about ONE case of the illness in California ...
Here we are hearing every day about that ... but the preventive measures taken by the government are so contradictory and incomprehensible ! Some even seem to have been taken in response to certain other difficult situations for the government ...
Once again recklessness and selfish interest seem to take precedence over a vital situation. FOR THIS FACT -more especially- as much as for the situation of concrete concern itself, I think that the lady who believes in the end of our world is not entirely wrong...
I remain convinced that man is the greatest predator of creation and that he will eventually kill himself.

I not cross my fingers, I wash them!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you Christiane and Soeradjoen.

and then we have eastern, death never has the last word.

Der Mundschutz wird wohl kaum was nützen, das ist eher ein Maulkorb! Machen wir uns stark, William, und wehren wir uns durch gutes Essen!

Thank you Trudy, Ron, and Ruesterstaude!

Great info above, William. Things are starting to spin out of control...

Anyway, on to happier topics...
www.ipernity.com/doc/285927/18067861

The Southern Ireland Republic’s first case of coronavirus has forced the closure of a Dublin secondary school on infection control grounds. The confirmed case of the Virus was a student returning from
Italy.
More than 400 students of the school are today beginning two weeks off after public health officials ordered it to shut to prevent the spread of the disease.

Meanwhile, public health officials are expected to decide on Monday on restrictions that will apply to mass gatherings in light of the worldwide coronavirus outbreak. The restrictions to be decided by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) may affect the St Patrick’s Day Festival and other big events over the coming months.

NPHET made the decision to close the Dublin school after learning that the first person in the Republic to test positive for the virus had became ill after returning from Italy and going back to school. He is currently in isolation in a hospital in the capital.

Public health officials have ordered the closure of the school in order to minimise the risk of person-to-person transmission of the disease.

I think the above decisions are the right thing to do to try and minimize the spread of this disease. Others may disagree. But the best know system of prevention of diseases spreading is "Lock down" of identified areas and cancelation of large mass gatherings such as sports Events. Some say cancelling the six nations rugby series between Ireland-Italy is a step too far; but I disagree.

Thank you Janet, Lee & Luv, and Tess. I agree Tess, this is the right decision since prevention is the best course of action.

Thanks for your support. Much appreciated

Excellent !

;-)

Thank you Tess and Cecile!

Admired in:
www.ipernity.com/group/tolerance

Je crois qu'il serait bien de prier notre créateur et de s'en remettre à sa sainte volonté pour chacun de nous, car la vie n'est qu'un passage sur cette terre de joies et de souffrances.

2 February 2020: From a Previous Coronavirus-related image:
With the proliferation of novel coronavirus cases (2019-nCov)… racism and xenophobia have cropped up in several Asian and European countries as well as the United States and Canada. Restaurants refuse to serve Chinese tourists, people cross the streets to shun Chinese people, refuse to patronize Chinese establishments and in one case a crowd even gathered in front of a hotel to demand its Chinese guests immediately leave and return to China. Such xenophobia and racism are repugnant and unacceptable without exception.

[P]eople are not a virus… People get sick! Period! Such people deserve the best medical treatment possible and compassion instead of misguided blame and condemnation. Period! Let’s never forget that!

For those who elect to purchase and wear a face mask, it should be "N-95" rated.

5 February 2020 From a Previous Coronavirus-related image:
I haven't heard of any cases in NY... but who's to say something wasn't reported.

16 February 2020:From a Previous Coronavirus-related image:
While N-95 rated face masks (the only face masks manufactured to protect against airborne pathogens) are not needed at this time in much of the world, hand sanitizer and good hygiene are a good idea to prevent its spread.

25 February 2020:From a Previous Coronavirus-related image:
[T]he CDC sparked some real panic... claiming the outbreak here in the USA was inevitable and people should start making preparations and expect significant disruptions in their lives.

26 February 2020:
COVID-19 is the Black Death of 2020. Though the number of afflicted rises, Medieval lock downs are expanded, isolation threatens social bonds and peoples worldwide are urged to prepare for an uncertain future with significant disruptions in life, gloom cannot extinguish hope...

27 February 2020:
While COVID-19 doesn't statistically come close to Black Death in the 14th century, its fear factor promoted by the media and plunging stock markets certainly does. Heck, one person said to me today, "We're all gonna die!" She was actually scared and truly believed this is the end of the world. :(

[L]et's hope COVID-19 does indeed disappear with... warmer weather and good sanitary practices go a long way.

29 February 2020::
There are now too many unreported cases in America. [D]espite thousands of suspected cases in the USA as of now, less than 400 people have been actually tested with the vast majority being told to stay home, treat themselves, and self-quarantine. Worse yet, for weeks the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) have rejected providing tests for some people suffering symptoms as was the case with the first "unknown" origin case in California… [S]tatistics are under-reported... [e]ven deaths…

[I]nconsistent and contradictory press conferences here in the USA don't help either and erode confidence. Worse yet it seems like the main reason for these briefings are to stabilize the markets (down 11% 24-28 February 2020) rather than protect peoples' health. Unlike some countries, the USA still has no awareness campaign with posters to provide reminders on how to avoid COVID-19 in public areas or on public transport vehicles. With lack of confidence, it is no wonder stores are beginning to see empty shelves when it comes to essentials such as non-perishables, sanitizer, and bleach and face masks and other protective PPE (personal protective equipment) are sold out in America.

…a cure and vaccine are the best hope but likely a year away at a minimum… In the meantime one can only take precautions [that] should include acquisition of a facemask when possible (since if one family member gets sick others will need them since it's impractical and immoral to throw them out of the house to avoid contagion… everyone will be infected if one family member comes down with it, and they do provide real protection if N-95 rated as well as psychological comfort) and even safety glasses to keep droplets out of the eyes, and hope for the best. Still as humans have survived pandemics and disease in the past, we will survive this too!

1 March 2020:
New York City/NYS reported its first confirmed case of COVID-19.

3 March 2020:
Thank you Ron and Danielle! COVID-19 is now on the doorstep of my community (in New Rochelle that borders my hometown and where I have a dentist appointment on Thursday through person-to-person transmission instead of travel to an affected area; sadly the 50 year-old victim is currently in very critical condition) and shelves are empty in many of the supermarkets when it comes to paper goods, sanitizer, and non-perishable food items. It's hard to believe and even surreal that just 2 months ago this novel disease seemed so distant and far away. Prior to 1 March 2020 there had been zero confirmed cases in New York State.

4 March 2020:
Now there are 10 cases here (11 in NY when NYC is counted). The media says the above shortages may persist for a while since we were dubbed a "Coronavirus Cluster Community." The above mentioned 50 year-old is now improving since he was transferred from the original hospital of his stay to Manhattan to a hospital with much better treatment capabilities.

5 March 2020:
The number of local cases rose to 18 in New Rochelle/Westchester County (my County of residence), 3 in NYC, and 1 in Nassau County, Long Island for 22 in New York State. In a pleasant surprise paper goods such as towels, toilet paper, and napkins were restocked with a reasonable quantity remaining after people bought bulk quantities. Bottled water was also restocked. Hand sanitizer, Lysol and other disinfectants remained absent.

6 March 2020:
New York State cases doubled rising by 22 to 44 in total. Westchester County has the majority 34 followed by 4 in Nassau County, 4 in New York City, and 2 in Rockland County (which borders Westchester County). As the numbers rise and COVID-19 has become a fact of life here, the shock has worn off such that as dangerous as it appears with its 3.4% mortality rate per W.H.O. and an Australian study predicting 15 million dead in a best case scenario, it doesn't seem so threatening anymore. Time will tell, though. At the same time, hand sanitizer is now being called "liquid gold" since in the rare cases where it can be found here in NY, prices can be as high as $29 to $79 per container. It's incredible how items once taken for granted and overlooked are now so seemingly precious!

8:26 PM: No more on the doorstep. COVID-19 is now present in my hometown after a person tested positive tonight in the school system per a text alert. It's unknown if the person is a staff member or student. The schools will be sanitized through the weekend and a decision will be made probably late Sunday on whether they will re-open on Monday.

7 March 2020:
New York State cases rose by 45 to 89. They consist of 70 (Westchester), 11 (NYC) 4 (Nassau), 2 (Rockland) and 2 (Saratoga County, upstate NY). With COVID-19 entrenched especially in the NYC metro area where I live (Westchester/NYC 81 total cases) and rising, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo declared a "State of Emergency" to facilitate quanrantine enforcement and cutoff all outside contact with nursing home residents other than essential medical personnel and caretakers, which to me is a necessary step to avoid the catastrophe Washington State is experiencing. In addition, the local Shoprite in New Rochelle received its first Lysol spray and other cleansing disinfectants in almost two weeks. Supplies were limited to four of each per person. While these limits helped ensure greater numbers of people could purchase such supplies, they did eventually run out.

8 March 2020:
New York State cases rise to 106: (82 - Westchester; 13 - NYC; 5 - Nassau; 2 - Rockland; 2 - Saratoga County; 1 - Suffolk County (LI); and 1 - Ulster County).
The NY Archdioceses put in effect new rules for masses that include: The absence of holy water, no partaking of the "blood" from the chalice, holy communion in the hands only, and no physical contact such as shaking hands during the peace sign. Sadly some non-Catholic churches in the NY metro area don't get it and are encouraging close contact with their members and laying hands on one another. Proverbs 14:16 is certainly appropriate here: "One who is wise is cautious... a fool is reckless and careless."

NY Gov. Cuomo urged people to take off from work if they aren't well but failed to order the companies (especially small businesses) that provide no pay for sick time (not sure of the numbers) to at least give mandatory paid sick leave during this state of emergency that now sees Westchester County as one of the top infected areas in the country. NY and the USA aren't as progressive as they should be. :(

It's hard to believe when I put the face mask on this angel statue to create my photo shoot NYS was still days away from its first COVID-19 case and now Westchester, the County of my residence where the statue is located for a while today had the most cases in the USA. :( At least here in NY we're constantly reminded on the State's Department of Health website -- "New York's healthcare system is the best in the world..." It remains believable as long as the mortality count stays at zero.

Also I heard there may be another cruise ship off the USA with possible cases. Considering much publicized news about previous such ships, I can only ask of these people that continue to go -- "What are you thinking?"

Last, considering it's Sunday and COVID-19 is all around my neighborhood, I quote Psalms 91:10 to end on an optimistic note: "No evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwellings."

9 March 2020:
For a while, New York and Westchester County had the most COVID-19 cases for a state and county, respectively in the USA, until Washington State and King County released new figures later in the day. Stats: 98 - Westchester, 19 - NYC, 17 - Nassau, 4 - Rockland, 2 - Saratoga, 1 - Suffolk, and 1 - Ulster.

We've been told containment especially in the NY metro area (NYC and Westchester that have a combined 117 cases) is "no longer possible" such that focus should now be on mitigation as more person-to-person transmitted cases with no known travel or contact with people from other affected areas have been confirmed.

A participant at my wife's work place reported had contact with one of the doctors in White Plains, NY who tested positive. Hopefully he'll be tested as the quantity of test kits remains insufficient. No doubt even if he is tested and the result is negative, it's apparent COVID-19 is getting closer to my household. Still, must remain optimistic.

10 March 2020:
COVID-19 cases continue to rise here with now 173 cases in New York (108 - Westchester, 36 - NYC, 17 - Nassau, 7 - Rockland, 2 - Saratoga, 1 - Suffolk, and 1 - Ulster). As a result, New York Governor Cuomo established a one-mile "containment" zone about 2.5 miles from where I live, that will be enforced by the National Guard. While this zone is small, I tend to think it is to serve as preparation for much larger things here considering NYC is experiencing additional person-to-person cases. Also, neighboring state NJ had its first fatality adding a new grim stat to the tri-state region that can only reinforce the gravity of the situation.

And when considering what is happening here as well as around the rest of the world, I'm sick and tired of hearing some (two of my co-workers and some with the right-wing media) say this is nothing more than "a bad case of the flu." It seems I'm not alone since a doctor at the front lines in Italy (Daniele Macchini of Humanitas Gavazzeni hospital, Bergamo, Italy) expressed the same sentiment adding, "Now, explain to me which flu virus causes such a rapid drama..."[1] This is serious and should be taken seriously. This is why stock markets that are often more rational than people have reacted the way they have.

11 March 2020:
New York now has 216 confirmed cases (121 - Westchester, 52 - NYC, 28 - Nassau, 6 Rockland (one case was reclassified), 6 Suffolk, 2 - Saratoga, and 1 - Ulster).

Today I went to my follow-up dentist located in the "containment" zone which will be enforced starting tomorrow. There were some benefits as a supply of COVID-19 prevention goods (sanitizer, bleaches, etc.) and paper goods were brought in but are being sold with limits in place. I was able to buy 5 containers of anti-bacterial hand sanitizer, the maximum amount allowed. I passed on everything else since I really didn't need them at this time.

Also as face masks are completely sold out, now for weeks, I heard that people are stealing them and other supplies while at doctors offices waiting to be seen. I can only shake my head with disgust as I would never even think of doing such a thing or violating my doctor's trust. So sad and pathetic! :(

Last, since some people still don't realize the seriousness of this pandemic (WHO finally made the declaration about the situation we all already knew existed), the U.S. stock market fell another 1465 points ending the longest bull run (11 years) in history to demonstrate the medical and economic dangers that lie ahead from this "black swan" event.

12 March 2020:
COVID-19 cases rose to 325 in New York State (148 - Westchester, 95 - NYC, 41 - Nassau, 20 - Suffolk, 7 - Rockland and 14 Rest of the State). NY Governor Cuomo announced plans to create an emergency medical corps consisting of retired doctors and med students to assist with the pandemic due to expectations hospitals may be overrun. In addition he is establishing a Coronavirus testing lab at Glen Island, New Rochelle (the site where I got married) and a tent, potential quarantine/treatment center on its fields.

12 March 2020 cont'd:
There has also been panic buying leading to empty shelves in numerous stores.

Today was a cloudy and gloomy day weatherwise, which is fitting since it may be 1918 and 1929 all over again. COVID-19 cases appear to be rising exponentially, major sports events have been suspended in the USA, ways of life appear threatened and President Trump, with his ill-advised 30-day travel ban to/from EU states, may have unleashed the beginnings of another Great Depression as the Dow plunged a record 2352 points today.

13 March 2020:
New York's cases rose to 421 (158 - Westchester, 154 - NYC and 109 in the rest of the State). President Trump finally declared a "national emergency" leading to a 1985 point gain in the DJIA. Testing is also finally picking up speed especially here in NY with the establishment of the COVID-19 test site at Glen Island, New Rochelle.

My brother, Don may now have a direct link to a possible COVID-19 victim (please see his post below). I suppose it was only a matter of time before close family (sibling, etc.) fell into this position since it is increasingly likely just about all of us here in the NY metro area (Westchester and NYC) have had contact/interaction with someone with COVID-19.

Panic buying, empty shelves and very long lines were present yet another day here in NY, probably because many people who had not taken this pandemic seriously are realizing just how serious it is. At the same time, several thousand people have "fled" NYC and my local police department is on lock down -- no visitors are permitted entry. Yet its walls and bullet-proof glass are not impenetrable when it comes to COVID-19. Last, a phrase that is becoming increasingly common here is -- "Stay healthy!" Who would've thought at the start of 2020 when the world hadn't even learned of the COVID-19 outbreak!

14 March 2020:
I am now in the same situation as Don. Late this afternoon, I received a letter that read: "As you may be aware, a number of cases of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) have recently been confirmed across the country. Late Friday (13 March 2020), we learned that two... employees have tested positive for COVID-19. Both will not return to work until medically cleared..." It's kind of disheartening knowing if you do all the right things as recommended, you still might not be safe when others are falling ill around you. :(

New York's cases continue to climb: 613 in the state including 447 in the NYC/Westchester area (269 - NYC and 178 - Westchester) and 166 outside the NYC/Westchester area. In addition, the State reported its first two COVID-19 deaths. Because of this, several NYC hospitals have begun to set up tents and cancel surgical procedures to prepare for an influx while Westchester County officials are considering converting the County Center (used for shows and athletic events) into a Coronavirus treatment facility.

The New York Archdiocese in a proactive move just cancelled Masses at all 296 of its parishes across New York State as well as at St. Patrick's Cathedral in the heart of Manhattan until further notice.

15 March 2020:
Parts of New York City were virtually deserted into mid-day. The Westside Highway had eerily few vehicles, panic buying that has been going on for days eased a bit as supplies of non-perishables, paper goods, bleaches, cleaners and sanitizer ran out leaving empty shelves. Elsewhere in the City people did continue routine activities such as jogging and conversing with each other. One restaurant on Broadway even had several packed outdoor tables -- the complete opposite of social distancing pleas. As people in Spain and Italy beg Americans to take this seriously before the bodies pile up, some still don't. Shutdowns are imminent and necessary.

New York State now has 729 cases (329 - NYC, 196 - Westchester, and 204 elsewhere in the State). The NYS death count tripled to 7.

Quote: "We have never fought a virus like this." -- NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo

Post to Annemarie
www.ipernity.com/doc/292913/49793798/in/group/592095

Excellent shot and good question about approach. Sometimes I wonder even if we take all precautions as recommended, are we really safe. My brother Don had a COVID-19 positive case at his workplace and I've had two. Is it a matter of time for us? What about our immediate families? I'm sure you have the same questions. As for us here in NY, we can only wait since tests still badly lack here and the present criteria make it difficult to impossible for most people to even qualify.

It also doesn't help that some seem amazingly unconcerned and call this "a bad case of the flu" despite pleas from residents of your country and Spain who see first hand how bad this virus is.

16 March 2020:
Numerous public places -- restaurants, bars, gyms, etc. are closing around New York State and the USA as COVID-19 continues to transform ways of life. Don's workplace reported a second COVID-19 positive individual. The Dow Jones fell a record 2997 points marking its third consecutive 9+% change. Previously the only time the Dow Jones had consecutive 9% swings was just before the start of the Great Depression. With scary economic numbers coming out of China, global economies also threaten to fall victim to COVID-19. This is a time for strength and fortitude. The world can and will get through this.

New York State cases are now accelerating: 950 cases (463- NYC, 220 - Westchester, 267 elsewhere in the State) with 9 deaths.

17 March 2020:
It's hard to believe as the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across the USA increasing numbers of Americans consider it nothing to be concerned about despite pleas from people in Italy and Spain begging Americans not to make the same mistake -- "We were selfish and didn't take it seriously, partied and now there's more bodies than we can count!" Towns and cities are finally locking down playgrounds that defeat the purpose of social distancing and numerous businesses have now shut down. The streets are a lot emptier. I keep waiting to see if I come across some "infected zombies" walking down the street like in the movies. Or am I one such "zombie" and just don't know it yet!

Since last night, hospitals across the New York metro area have been experiencing an influx of patients. Not surprisingly COVID-19 case numbers soared over the last 24 hours leaving NY with 1706 cases that includes 814 - NYC, an increase of 351, 380 - Westchester among others and 13 state-wide deaths). Also now seven COVID-19 positive cases at my employer.

With some hospitals approaching capacity, people have been urged to wait four days before seeking medical treatment and only if symptoms persist. Because of this, debate has begun about a possible "shelter in place" lockdown for NYC that I imagine would also affect Westchester. Keep in mind, Wuhan was locked down when that city had 500 cases. With that said, "Happy St. Patty's Day!"

18 March 2020:
Even angels shudder at the thought of being in NY when it pertains to the United States. New York State cases soared by 1332 to 3038 that includes 1871 in NYC and 538 in Westchester County. Other states with a high volume of cases rose by between 100 to 175 to put New York's explosive rise into perspective. The state-wide death toll also rose to 20.

People are now urged to shelter in place with only essential personnel permitted outdoors with the exception of people going to doctor's visits, pharmacies and grocery stores. As I'm considered essential and cannot shelter at home, I'll begin wearing a face mask tomorrow to protect myself, my family, and others.

Most food items are also sold out in my community including pet food! Grocery stores permit only 60 at a time at the most into their facilities and businesses may only permit 50% of their staff to work in person at their physical sites.

The economic toll has become stunningly apparent in just a short week with unemployment claims causing website outages in NYS and NJ. A depression certainly looks like it is in sight if the COVID-19 pandemic isn't contained very soon since closed borders and lock downs are even more damaging than the protectionist policies of the 1930s that had led to the Great Depression. Of course, the Dow Jones fell over a thousand points to under 20,000. It's hard to believe just a month ago people were talking about 30,000!

19 March 2020:
Sadly, NY is now the coronavirus epicenter of the US with about four times the number of cases as the next state (Washington). Worse yet, NJ is having a dramatic spike in cases that could be attributed to the daily commute to and from NY. NYC now has 3615 cases, Westchester - 798 cases and New York State 5367 cases (+2329 from last night). The NYS death toll also rose to 34 with 22 of them in NYC.

NYS Governor Cuomo now reduced the number of people permitted to work at their physical work site to 25% from 50%. Still there are some here who aren't taking this pandemic seriously. To everyone, stay safe and stay healthy!

20 March 2020:
NY Governor Andrew Cuomo ordered a lock down slated to go into effect at 8 PM EDT on Sunday, 22 March 2020 after NYS cases soared to 8398 (+3031). NYC cases rose to 5151 (+1536) and Westchester to 1091 (+293). The NYS death toll rose to 46.

During the lock down, only essential businesses will be permitted to operate: Grocery stores, pharmacies, medical and veterinary facilities, restaurants (for take out and delivery orders only), liquor stores and delivery organizations (e.g. USPS, UPS, FedEx). All employees of non-essential businesses will now be required to work from home eliminating the 25% standard set a day earlier. In addition, all non-solitary activities will be banned, which was a long time coming and necessary since the majority of infected New Yorkers range in age from 18-49 with about 28% of the hospitalized being "young" people according to the latest statistics.

Playgrounds, basketball courts, etc. in my area have already been locked up with prominent notices posted: "CLOSED due to the Coronavirus..." At the same time, some progressive multifamily dwellings have set up sanitizing stations in their lobbies with useful tips to "protect [oneself] from COVID-19." Also, as litter and garbage generally reflects a snapshot of society at a given time, discarded rubber gloves and face masks are becoming increasingly present in my community. Finally I extend my wishes to everyone -- Stay healthy and have a great weekend!

21 March 2020:
COVID-19 has become more personal. One of my co-workers who is in quarantine, just lost his grandfather, one of NY's ten COVID-19 fatalities today. His grandmother is also hospitalized with COVID-19. Considering I may have been exposed but there is no way of knowing for sure, it's kind of a waiting game, and so I wear a face mask and gloves everyday as I work extended hours as call-outs have increased quite a bit. Also a cousin of my wife, who lives in the Bronx (NYC) tested positive for COVID-19 and is now in quarantine.

NY now has 11,729 cases (7530 - NYC, 1387 - Westchester, among others) that would rank 7th in the world if it was a country. The state-wide death toll rose to 56.

22 March 2020:
Crowds are finally decreasing as people here in NY are beginning to take the COVID-19 pandemic seriously with the USA experiencing the most new cases globally and triple-digit daily deaths for the first time. Just about every open playground has been fenced off by town authorities in my neighborhood with prominent posted notices and the lock down has now gone in effect. From a personal standpoint, my wife's church now confirmed two positive cases.

Here in NY, that would rank 7th in number of global COVID-19 cases with 15,790 (9654 - NYC, 1873 - Westchester), hospitals have been ordered to increase capacity by at least 50%. The Jacob Javits Center in NYC is expected to be converted into a hospital as NY cases soar -- the State alone had the second largest increase in cases globally (only Italy had more). In addition the death toll in NY doubled in the last 24 hours rising to 114.

As discouraging as it is here and in so many places, we can still beat this thing!

23 March 2020:
On the first full day of the "lock down" local roads had sparse traffic and parks went empty. The weather may have also contributed since it was a raw, cold rainy day here in NY today with temperatures hovering in the 30s.

Cases in NY remained out of control prompting a warning from NYC Mayor Bill De Blasio that city hospitals may run out of supplies within a week. NY now has 20,875 COVID-19 cases with 12,305 in New York City and 2,894 in Westchester County. The State death toll rose to 157.

With this in mind, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is suggesting an automatic 14 day quarantine for all New Yorkers arriving to his state. Who can blame him, considering NJ now has the second most cases in the USA thanks to daily commutes to and from NYC and Westchester for many of that state's residents.

24 March 2020:
Pleasant weather returned and people took advantage ignoring social distancing -- unable or unwilling to accept the reason why businesses and schools are shut down. Sadly NY and the USA as a whole seems headed for the same disaster as Italy and Spain unless a punishment mechanism is quickly instituted.

It's also like the Middle Ages again and for the sake of most of the USA, the borders to New York and now NJ should be shut down with exit prohibited. The CDC has now reported numerous areas where New Yorker's had recently fled are reporting an uptick in COVID-19 cases and urging every New Yorker who recently left to self-quarantine for 14 days. Of course, few will do so based on the continued disregard for the loose lock downs imposed by various State Governors.

With cases surging in NY (especially the NYC metro area) some hospitals out of desperation have begun a "two person to a ventilator" regimen. Soon, as is the case with Italy and Spain, NY medical facilities may also have to make difficult ethical decisions on whom to treat. Hopefully it doesn't come to this, but I have real concerns.

Daily Stats -- New York: 26,348 cases (15,597 - NYC, 3891 - Westchester) and 271 deaths (+114 in the last 24 hours).

25 March 2020:
The outlook in NY continues to darken with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reporting several morgues have reached capacity and the rest are expected to follow some time next week. A temporary morgue with tents and portable freezers has been set up on the East side in preparation. NY may be on the same path as Italy and Spain. :( Despite such dire prospects, some in NYC still don't get it prompting the parks department to remove the hoops from baskets in 80 parks. NYPD officers, whom I applaud, have also issued "Cell phone" violation tickets to some who violated the loose "lock down" since no punishment mechanism currently exists. One hospital in the Bronx has no spare ventilators available to assist new cases. Hospitals are also reviewing "DNRs" (Do Not Resusitate orders) in the event they will be unable to provide medical treatment to all.

On a bright note, "social distancing" appears to be working as the number of hospital cases that had been doubling every two days as of Sunday, 22 March 2020 is now taking every 4.7 days to double per News 12.

Daily Stats -- New York: 32,966 cases (20,011 - NYC, 4691 - Westchester) and 366 deaths.
Additional Stats -- 40% of persons testing positive here are between the age of 18-44 and 50% of those who died in NY had no underlying conditions.

26 March 2020:
For me it's a waiting game to see what may or may not be in store considering two people who had the same exposure as myself to the employee who lost his grandfather to COVID-19 (21 March 2020 entry) have been effected. One has been in self-quarantine since 23 March 2020 and the other is in the process of developing symptoms, which is discouraging to watch to say the least. While I can accept whatever outcome befalls me, even though I prefer to remain healthy, I pray my wife and children aren't effected.

Today I observed first-hand shortages of medical supplies. A local nursing home place a large poster at their front entrance requesting donations of surgical masks, gloves and other PPE to protect the staff and its residents who are among the most vulnerable. NY metro hospitals have also reported severe shortages in supplies with the need to reuse items meant to be disposed of after use. It's hard to believe a first-world country can be in such a predicament!

Daily Stats -- New York: 38,977 cases (+6011) (23,112 - NYC, 5944 - Westchester) and 466 deaths (+100).

27 March 2020:
A local colleague with no underlying conditions died today from COVID-19. The situation in the New York City metropolitan area has gotten grimmer. Yet one must never lose hope since the sun will continue to rise and ultimately light will prevail over darkness and adversity.

Catholic Bishops ended fast and abstinence requirements for Lent saying "people already have made great sacrifices." With the disruption, uncertainty, quarantines, lock downs, suffering of the afflicted and the fact so many innocents have died, their words couldn't be more true!

In a positive development here in the USA that has seen 401 COVID-19 deaths today, President Trump finally activated the "Defense Production Act" and ordered GM to begin production of much needed ventilators.

Daily Stats -- New York: 46,262 cases (25,398 - NYC, 7187 - Westchester) and 606 deaths (+140). :(

28 March 2020:
The weather (a cold rain) and atmosphere (grim and shocking) in NY complemented each other well. Today was a brutal day to say the least. Two more of my colleagues developed possible symptoms (one -- loss of taste and smell with a cough; the other -- shortness of breath), while consideration is being made to airlift patients from the New York City metro area to upstate locations to free up much needed hospital beds. Yet in spite of this, approximately a thousand "idiots" living in a fantasy world ignored the loose lock down and packed Astoria Park in Queens, NY yesterday -- many playing soccer and basketball while the NY and national body count rises.

Today, the USA had its worst day with 525 deaths bringing the total to 2,221. New York now has 53,316 cases (30,765 - NYC, 7875 - Westchester) and 883 deaths (a staggering increase of 277 in the last 24 hours). With 43% of the nation's cases and 40% of the nation's deaths, like 9/11, New York is again Ground Zero in the USA when it pertains to CovId-19. :(

29 March 2020:
The people of Manhattan have at least gotten it. The streets were mostly deserted as were major landmarks. Only scattered clusters of police cars and officers were scattered along NYC's streets, standing vigilant against the unseen. Major streets, the West Side Highway, Subway stations, underground malls, the 9/11 Memorial, Rockefeller Center, and Ground Zero were eerily desolate. At times no traffic was present on the West Side Highway at Ground Zero, the first time since the aftermath of the September 11th attacks. Also, as an anecdotal indication of just how many NYC residents have fled NY, I had no problem finding street parking where ever I went.

www.ipernity.com/blog/285927/4730830

The Jacob Javits Center is now operational as a makeshift hospital for non-COVID-19 patients. A few military personnel stood outside the Javit's Center today, the first time military personnel had been deployed in NYC since 9/11.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) issued a travel advisory for NY, NJ, and CT.
Daily Stats -- New York: 60,679 cases (33,768 - NYC, 8519 - Westchester) and 1063 deaths (+180).

30 March 2020:
Sober reality appears to have finally set in after a grim weekend in the New York City Metro area. Streets now remain mostly empty but the damage may have already been done after New Yorkers had seemingly repeated the mistakes of Italians and Spaniards since pandemics are unforgiving and there are no do-overs.

New York suffered its worst day yet with 279 deaths. With morgue space in local hospitals at capacity, numerous medical facilities were forced to store bodies in freezer trailers. Signs of a breakdown or interruption in the continuity of operations among some essential businesses are also appearing as increasing numbers of employees are afflicted.

Also to meet the growing need of cases in NYC, a temporary hospital is being constructed on the East Lawn of Central Park and plans are in place to build at least one temporary hospital in each of the City's boroughs. Also the U.S.N.S. Comfort, a medical ship, arrived to NY so non-COVID-19 patients can be transferred to it to free up critical hospital bed space.

Daily Stats -- New York: 67,325 cases (38,087 - NYC, 9326 - Westchester) and 1342 deaths (+279)

31 March 2020:
New York is now the COVID-19 epicenter of the world, a distinction we could do without. With soaring cases and a rapidly rising death toll citywide, statewide, and nationwide, the CDC is considering reversing course and urging all people to wear a face mask as a precaution to slow the spread, something I urged four weeks ago.

While many complain about the shut-down of non-essential businesses in NY, this is really a good move. Having to work as an "essential worker" I see more people everyday around me falling ill to COVID-19. Had these other businesses not been closed, this would be happening ten or more-fold putting greater numbers of people at risk. My immediate boss is now out indefinitely with COVID-19 and a colleague whom I frequently text with is looking like yet another case pending test results. :(

Daily Stats -- New York: 75,983 cases (43,139 - NYC, 9967 - Westchester) with 1714 deaths (+372). In addition, the USA had its worst day yet with an additional 912 fatalities. :(

1 April 2020:
Two more of my co-workers have now come down with COVID-19. I can't even keep count anymore! To put this in perspective, those who complain about the lock down prohibiting them from working or compelling them to work remotely need to get a grip on reality. If they were physically going to work, they would be at greater risk of also contracting COVID-19 and in the same position as me. It's definitely not pleasant seeing people around you fall ill to this horrible virus we still don't know much about. Life is more precious than simple economics.

NYC has now reached a new COVID-19 low. People are now being brought to hospitals to die with no treatment rendered if admitted at all. Hospitals are also turning away patients since they have maxed their capacity. A friend of one of my wife's co-workers was denied admittance to one such NYC hospital last night and then when in the process of being transported to another hospital, died. Informal triage in some form has begun in NYC where there is at least 1139 deaths as of this morning. In response, the NYPD that allows maximum monthy overtime of 30 hours is offering twice that amount to police officers who volunteer for a DOA (Dead on Arrival) team to collect the bodies of COVID-19 victims.

Also as the Pentagon orders 100,000 body bags for the anticipated COVID-19 death toll in the U.S., "charlatan" pastors who continue to defy governmental orders and hold large services, with one desiring a "Christian Woodstock" this weekend. They can only have one ungodly purpose -- to spread the virus, spike the curve and rush the end time for their members and others. Evil and depraved to say the least!

I also have to add, based on info I have received from a medical professional in Mexico, they have been ordered to refrain from citing "Coronavirus" as cause of death so national numbers can be suppressed for political reasons.

Daily Stats -- New York: 83,712 cases (47,439 - NYC, 10,683 Westchester) and 2219 deaths (+505 today). The U.S. death toll also rose by its highly daily number: +1049 to 5102.

Despite this sickening dark situation, there is also some brightness:

1. "Patient Zero" from New Rochelle mention on my 3 March 2020 has recovered and been discharged from the hospital today after having been near death.
2. China and the U.S. have created an AI (Artificial Intelligence) algorithm that can predict with 80% reliability who will develop the dreaded "wet lung" condition that is so lethal to assist with prioritizing patients. Hope it is used immediately and globally since there is no time to waste.

Last, as grim as it appears in NY and much of the world, we must keep in mind that not only are we "NY Strong," "Milan Strong," "Madrid Strong," "Wuhan Strong," or Name your location Strong -- we are "HUMAN Strong!" Together we will beat the COVID-19 pathogen!

2 April 2020:
As NYC hospitals struggle to treat the influx of COVID-19 patients, an estimated six days of supplies remain and paramedics have been instructed not to bring "cardiac-arrest" patients to hospitals, a dichotomous world appears to exist. While Manhattan residents heed calls to stay indoors, many in the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens still don't get it! While buses and subways are deserted in Manhattan, they continue to be packed in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens with brazen disregard of social distancing. Shut them down or limit service to essential workers with photo IDs. Maybe then, when those who don't have a need to be out have no way to get around, they'll finally stay home to slow the spread!

At the same time, a co-worker of mine has now been denied a test for the third day as he suffers from loss of taste and smell (two of the most powerful symptoms of the COVID-19 virus) and a 103 fever. A co-worker of Don's who just became symptomatic has been denied hospitalization despite now developing pneumonia. Both are NYC residents and both have been instructed to wait to see if their symptoms get better. No wonder the number of cases and deaths in NYC and statewide are exploding. At the same time, a participant at a program (shut down for the last two weeks) where my wife teaches has also contracted COVID-19, but at least she is more fortunate and hospitalized in Westchester where she can be treated to combat her symptoms.

Considering the gravity of the situation, in which researchers now say COVID-19 can be spread merely through someone breathing or talking, and asymptomatic people appear to be the greatest spreaders such that everyone must be viewed as a carrier, testing must be expanded to everyone, not just celebrities, athletes, and those with connections, and without delay! Restricting testing and/or waiting four days to see if one gets better only invites life-threatening situations that could otherwise be avoided! Keep this up and soon we'll have more bodies than can be counted.

Finally since the realization has sunk in that everyone must be viewed as a carrier, increasing numbers of political leaders are now urging everyone to wear a face mask or covering. If only they had urged this precaution a month ago instead of disseminating nonsense -- "face masks don't provide much protection" since N-95 face masks are very effective.

Daily Stats -- New York: 93,053 cases (51,809 - NYC, 11,567 - Westchester) and 2538 deaths (+319).

3 April 2020:
Here in lower NY, hospitals, morgues, funeral homes and cemeteries now struggle to keep up with the soaring COVID-19 death toll. Crematories operate 24-7.

NYS began a new grim chapter. Hospitals in and around NYC including in lower Westchester no longer have the capacity to treat the exponentially increasing numbers of COVID-19 patients and have begun to turn some away. Tents have been erected outside the Westchester County Center that is suddenly too small to meet the need. The Javits Center in NYC has now been converted into a COVID-19 treatment facility. Treatment for non-COVID-19 patients is now deferred in most areas. At the same time, NY Governor Cuomo has authorized the National Guard to seize unused ventilators and medical PPE and divert them to lower NY where they are desperately needed.

Testing is now a joke such that many in need are told they have to wait for up to two weeks before they can be seen! This comes at a time when Florida is testing some 56 corpses to confirm a COVID-19 cause of death. Yes, after celebrities and the well connected, even the dead stand ahead of so many people in desperate need of these tests thwarting the commencement of critical treatment. If things don't change real fast and these depraved set of priorities are upheld, we're in for some cataclysmic days ahead!

Also, Navy Captain Brett Crozier of the U.S.S. Theodore Roosevelt was relieved of duty for exercising "poor judgment" because he spoke out to save the lives of his crew before they succumbed to COVID-19. He is a hero!

Daily Stats -- New York: 102,863 cases (56,289 - NYC, 12,351 - Westchester) and 3218 deaths (+680 today). Likewise the USA had its worst day too -- 1321 deaths to 7392.

4 April 2020:
As COVID-19 runs rampant in southern NY and NJ, there were two glimmers of hope on the international front: The demand for ICU beds declined in Italy and Australian researchers reported promising results for an existing anti-Parasite drug based on an in-vitro study. With nothing to lose and the fact the efficacy of this drug has already been proven with re: to humans, I'm hoping doctors try its use in the war against COVID-19. Also China sent 1000 ventilators to NY and Oregon sent 100.

I was also disappointed to learn how as more information comes out, China's initial response misled the entire world. Before Wuhan was locked down, the country's authorities reported "there was no evidence of human-to-human transmission." The world relied on this statement with global and national health agencies issuing directives urging vigilance while saying COVID-19 posed a "low risk." This eliminated the chance for many countries to take swift, proactive precautions before the outbreak became a pandemic costing thousands of lives and caused likely long-lasting economic damage. :(

Daily Stats -- New York: 114,775 cases (60,850 - NYC, 13,081 - Westchester) and 3565 deaths (2254 in NYC).

5 April 2020:
Despite the grim news in NY, things look a little brighter. The pace of hospitalizations has slowed, the number of patients in ICU has declined and 74% of patients hospitalized since the beginning have now been discharged. It also appears the executive order to reallocate critical hospital equipment and PPE downstate has also contributed relieving some of the pressure that had resulted in over-capacity days earlier. :) Sadly, though, other states must begin to brace for their onslaught in cases. :(

Also a new round of hoarding has begun and this time it's more expansive. Whatever wasn't hoarded originally is now being hoarded that shelves are empty in many areas of many food items, beverages, etc. Hopefully the possibility better days may be nearing may discourage some of the hoarding so the food supply chain doesn't collapse here in the NYC metro area. No one needs famine to be added to the pandemic.

Church services still aren't being held, but my church was open for private prayer for Palm Sunday. I went there this afternoon. I was the only person, but did take three palms from the collection that was set up front near the altar for those who came to pray. I also took a photo and added inspirational scriptural verses that are so relevant for this trying time since no matter what, there is always hope as long as one believes there is. I do believe there is hope and all of us will overcome this difficult and painful trial! :)

www.ipernity.com/doc/285927/49849066

Daily Stats -- New York: 123,018 cases (67,551 - NYC; 13,723 - Westchester) and 4159 deaths (+594).

6 April 2020:
Truly a sad day for Don and I. Today he learned that a colleague of his had died from COVID-19 and I was informed minutes ago (7:54 PM EDT) of the passing of four colleagues since the weekend, also from COVID-19. Death is too close for comfort.

Even though the numbers indicate a slowing in the growth of cases in NY, there are reasons for skepticism since the case remains the same -- not everyone is being tested for COVID-19 and some of the deaths aren't being attributed to it even though it is the irrefutable cause. In any event, ideas are being thrown around of providing temporary burials in NYC parks since cemeteries and funeral homes are currently too overwhelmed to accept any more bodies.

Nevertheless, here and everywhere, we must keep the hope!

Daily Stats -- New York: 131,916 cases (72,181 - NYC; 14,294 - Westchester) and 4758 deaths (+599).

7 April 2020:
+900 point early morning stock market gains faded to a 26 point loss for the Dow after early enthusiasm faded since optimism about an easing of the COVID-19 pandemic here in the USA appeared premature. America will likely have to wait a little longer at a great cost.

Another co-worker fell ill and is now out. It's also demoralizing hearing talk, "Are we supposed to keep working until we die?" While I remain optimistic, there could be some truth in this question since essential workers don't have the choice to stay home and it is our responsibility to serve our communities.

In addition, since last night three more colleagues succumbed to COVID-19 and my immediate boss's father also died from it. My immediate boss remains in quarantine with his own bout of COVID-19. As a doctor had warned weeks ago in Italy this isn't the flu! People don't die all around you during a typical flu season!

Also the mortality picture in NY and the USA appears much grimmer than reported numbers since many deaths are being undercounted because "inconsistent protocols and limited resources." In NYC alone people at home are dying at 10x the normal rate (approximately 240 home deaths per day vs. the normal approximate 20). NYC Mayor DeBlasio merely stated the obvious when he said, "I'm assuming the vast majority... are coronavirus related."[1]

Daily Stats -- New York: 142,384 cases (76,876 - NYC; 14,804 - Westchester) and 5489 deaths (+731), including 3544 in NYC alone. In addition the USA had its highest death toll +1970 to 12,841.

______
[1] N.Y. Virus Deaths Hit New High but Hospitalizations Slow: Live Updates. The New York Times. 7 April 2020. www.nytimes.com/2020/04/07/nyregion/coronavirus-new-york-update.html

8 April 2020:
Another colleague died last night among the record 24-hour death toll for New York State.

At the same time, several topics were discussed during a private multi-hospital conference in NYC. One such topic was the NYC death toll above and beyond the official figure given for positive COVID-19 tests. Based on factors including the fact "people at home" in NYC "are dying at 10x the normal rate" their calculation was: the NYC COVID-19 death toll is approximately 12,000, far higher than official numbers. Following this private meeting, NYC Mayor DeBlasio went on record saying to CNN, "I don't even think it's a suspicion any more. I think the blunt truth is coronavirus is driving these very tragic deaths... We're not talking about 10 people, 20 people. We're talking about a hundred, two hundred people per day. ...We never saw anything like this in normal times. We have to acknowledge that, and say this is further evidence of just how destructive this disease is. ...The real death toll is even higher."

At the same time reason for significant hope was also given during this conference -- where social distancing and isolation was practiced, there was significant slowing in the rising number of cases.

Finally, in an interesting development which appears to mirror findings in China and elsewhere and could account for reports of 2nd and third COVID-19 reoccurrences for some people, about 30% of the hospitalized, COVID-positive patients failed to develop antibodies. This was especially prevalent among younger people in their 30s and below. The reason remains unknown such that possible explanations include but are not limited to: antibody tests remain imprecise, COVID-19 remains concealed in their cells such that they're not fully recovered, and/or some people simply do not develop an immunity to this pathogen.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 151,171 cases (80,204 - NYC; 15,887 - Westchester) and 6268 deaths (+779) including 4260 in NYC.

9 April 2020:
While the curve appears to have been flattened in NY, new cases linger above 10,000 per day and the daily death toll continues to set records. Consequently, mass graves are now being utilized for COVID-19 victims at Hart Island.

The supply chain in the NYC metro area remains disrupted with many shelves for paper goods, bleaches, sanitizer, food items, juices, and desserts empty or sparsely populated.

All news, though isn't bad, since a colleague whom I had grown close to at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak, one of two co-workers with whom I participated in coronavirus discussions before he fell ill, appears to finally be recovering, though he is still weak, has no appetite and no sense of smell and taste. His constant 103 fever though finally broke. :)

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 161,504 cases (87,225 - NYC; 17,004 - Westchester) and 7067 deaths (+799) including 4778 in NYC. New York now has more confirmed COVID-19 cases than any country.

10 April 2020:
On a day models predict the USA to have its highest daily death toll, which has been realized with +2035 deaths, NY saw a slight easing from its 9 April 2020 record with 777 deaths, 22 less. However, these mortality statistics only take into account COVID-19 positive test results such that the picture is a lot grimmer. For instance, the number of deceased removed from houses 1-5 April 2019 was 31. Over the same period (1-5 April) this year, 1125 bodies have been removed.

In addition, one of my wife's cousins who had tested positive for COVID-19, was treated and then cleared to work has developed another case and tested positive again, consistent with what is happening to some Coronavirus survivors in China, South Korea, and Japan.

On a bright spot, NYC had its first negative net change in ICU cases since the COVID-19 outbreak on 1 March 2020 with a decline of 17. Tiny is still better than nothing or a gain.

Also social distancing, social isolation and the wearing of face mask is having a positive impact such that models regarding projected numbers of infections and deaths have been revised significantly lower!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 172,358 cases (94,409 - NYC; 18,077 - Westchester) and 7844 deaths (+777) including 5820 in NYC.

11 April 2020:
NY remains stuck at a "horrific" plateau in the words of Governor Andrew Cuomo. New cases remain at or around five-digits and daily deaths remain in the upper 700s. With significant reductions in cases and deaths no where in sight, Morgan Stanley has predicted a possible and unthinkable 40% plunge in U.S. GDP.

At the same time, a former FDA official called COVID-19 "more deadly than the Spanish flu" of 1918. Only social distancing, the wearing of face masks and the installation of plastic/glass barriers in businesses that separate personnel from customers has mitigated the spread and mortality rate sparing the region of a worst-case scenario.

As Lent comes to a close culminating with Resurrection Sunday, I wrote an article about the similarities of the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the desert and how it relates to what global society is going through during this pandemic -- The COVID-19 Pandemic: Our Own 40 Days in the Desert: www.ipernity.com/blog/285927/4731022

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 181,114 cases (98,715 - NYC; 18,729 - Westchester) and 8627 deaths (+783) including 6367 in NYC and 461 in Westchester.

12 April 2020:
Today I took documentary photographs in New York City -- of the temporary hospital tents in Central Park, various signage, letters, and messages, street scenes and the temporary freezer trailers for the COVID-19 deceased that are located at just about every NYC hospital, including eleven at Bellevue in lower Manhattan. While I spent about 10 minutes photographing the trailers outside Bellevue Hospital to find the best angle, two deceased COVID-19 victims were removed from the hospital and placed in one of the trailers. In addition, I observed a hearse parked in front of the hospital waiting to pick up another victim when the Medical Examiner's office released the body. The toll is very real and for anyone who stands around long enough or actually not that long, they can see for themselves!

Daily death figures remained horrific and this doesn't include people dying at home and in nursing homes. Among the nation's daily toll, it became very personal -- An aunt of mine (Joan 1937-2020) died early this morning in California from COVID-19. It now makes me wonder if inclusion of the black flowers on my photo "NY 2020 Easter" -- www.ipernity.com/doc/285927/49862068 that I uploaded late last night were prophetic in some way to mourn the passing of my aunt.

Aside from inspirational messages of hope, gratitude and love, I even found a humorous romantic posting that read: "Seeking Quarantine Boyfriend. Been dancing on my roof for days waiting to be asked out by drone. I think my admirer's drone is broken, so making it easier for you. ;) Healthy, gorgeous, humble, pretty good at making flyers, enough toilet paper for two. Female. Earlyish 30's."

Perhaps though, out of all the messages I came across, my favorite and most fitting for this Resurrection Sunday was: "We'll Be Aight." Yes indeed we will be all right!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 189,415 cases (104,410 - NYC; 19,313 - Westchester) and 9385 deaths (+758) including 6898 in NYC and 511 in Westchester County.

13 April 2020:
Finally some much needed good news for NY! The rise in cases and daily death toll has fallen, even though the latter remains much too high -- thanks much in part to social distancing, staying home (estimates that at up to 40% of NYC residents have complied) and preventive measures (washing hands, wearing gloves,using face masks or apparel to cover mouth and nose, installation of glass and plastic barriers).

Based on the welcome relief, NY Governor Andrew Cuomo stated in today's press conference, "Feel good... We can control the spread." He also added, "We could have gotten to a point where we said, 'we can't control this damn thing!'" urging New Yorkers to "maintain the momentum won at so great a cost."[1]

In addition, two of my co-workers who had been out at least 14 days due to COVID-19 have returned to work, having recovered.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 195,655 cases (106,863 - NYC; 19,786 - Westchester) and 10,056 deaths (+671) including 7349 in NYC and 557 in Westchester County.
_________
[1] Bernadette Hogan and Aaron Feis. Cuomo says 'worst is over' as NY coronavirus death toll reaches over 10,000. NY Post. 13 April 2020. nypost.com/2020/04/13/ny-coronavirus-death-toll-now-over-10000-cuomo-says-worst-is-over

14 April 2020:
After a glimmer of promise yesterday, the news in NY and the USA was grim again. The daily NY death toll spiked over 700 again and the USA obviously hadn't peaked as the models had indicated on 10 April, with the country experiencing its highest daily death toll +2407.

At the same time planning has to be made for the post-COVID-19 period when the economy re-opens. While President Trump risks rendering himself irrelevant if he rushes to try and open the economy on or about the arbitrary 1 May date, the West Coast (California, Oregon, Washington) and East Coast (Connecticut, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island) led by the respective Governor's of California and NY have established committees to focus on this task that will include a realistic date when the facts and science support it. Like the EU, the USA is undergoing a wave of federalism where states are creating border controls in some instances and establishing policy free of Washington, D.C.

Uploaded a series of documentary COVID-19 pandemic photos I took in NYC on 12 April 2020: www.ipernity.com/doc/285927/49870558

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 203,123 cases (110,425 - NYC; 20,191 - Westchester) and 10,834 deaths (+778) including 7905 in NYC and 596 in Westchester County.

In addition, the NYC Department of Health released another death figure -- 10,367 that includes people "who had no known positive lab test but with a death certificate that lists as a cause of death 'COVID-19 or an equivalent.'"[1]
_________

[1] New York City coronavirus deaths suspected to be more than 10,000. New York Post. 14 April 2020. news.yahoo.com/york-city-coronavirus-deaths-suspected-more-10-000-224216474.html

15 April 2020:
The optimism of two days ago seems so distant now as NY endured another horrific day with more than 10,000 new cases and 700+ deaths. The "plateau" remains too steep and long! Consequently, to shorten its duration, NY Governor Andrew Cuomo issued an executive order stating all persons in public must wear a face mask or covering effective immediately with a three day grace period before enforcement begins. Why? Contrary to misguided opinions back in February and early March, Face masks provide significant protection!

At the same time, the USA recorded a record high daily death toll of 2482.

Nevertheless, there signs of hope can still be found (the number of hospitalizations has fallen and NY is actually donating some ventilators to other states in need) and there will always be hope no matter how dark it may get. As Romans 12:12 says: "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation..." for based on Proverbs 23:18: "Surely there is a future and your hope will not be cut off."

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 214,648 cases (118,302 - NYC; 20,947 - Westchester) and 11,586 deaths (+752) including 8455 in NYC and 640 in Westchester County. NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 14,030 (10,899 in NYC alone).

16 April 2020:
Washington's plans on a 1 May re-opening will have to wait! In coordinated fashion, the Governors of NY and NJ extended the shutdown until 15 May 2020 to protect the safety and well being of their respective residents.

NY experienced a day of hope today as the rise in the daily death toll based on positive COVID-19 test results fell to its lowest level in 10 days -- perhaps the plateau is finally giving way to a downward trajectory? One can only hope!

Although shelves remain empty for many items and meat shortages may persist for a prolonged period, more people are social distancing and/or wearing face masks and face coverings.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 226,198 cases (123,146 - NYC; 21,858 - Westchester) and 12,192 deaths (+606) including 8893 in NYC and 668 in Westchester County. NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 16,106 (12,192 in NYC alone).

17 April 2020:
Today there were a pair of interesting developments. First, scientists at Cambridge University (UK) reported COVID-19 may have begun in Southern China (where unlike Wuhan, bats are present) with the first case being as early as 13 September 2019. Second, additional studies have shown the presence of Asthma has no impact on COVID-19 severity and one's genetic composition may be the most important factor in determining case severity (non-symptomatic to seriously ill) and outcome (recovery or death) as long as an effective treatment is not developed.

As Katja mentioned with re: to Germany, people in America are also longing for a return to normal and an end to lock downs, shutdowns, social isolation, social distancing and a return to work. Protests have broken out in several states (e.g. Michigan, Minnesota, Virginia) with President Trump making an ill-advised statement urging them to "liberate their states." So-called "Conservative" commentators are also urging disobedience, defiance and open revolt. The COVID-19 death toll is high enough -- we don't need violence and blood in the streets too!

Also it's kind of sickening to continue to hear Pastors speculate the COVID-19 outbreak could be a form of judgment or condemnation for certain actions, beliefs or behaviors. Others continue to act with reckless vanity believing they and their followers are protected and thus immune from COVID-19. Enough! God does NOT condemn, He LOVES! He SAVES and He will save ALL! All humans, regardless of faith or lack thereof share the same biology and are equally vulnerable!

Last, as talk ramps up about hasty and premature openings because some say, "People cannot live like this" ignoring the argument -- "at least they're alive!" the USA and NY reached a new peak re: daily deaths. The US death toll rose by 2535 while NY's toll rose by 1025. A nearby nursing home just two blocks from where I live now has 15 COVID-19 deaths; the bridesmaid for the wife of my best friend at work also succumbed to COVID-19. As COVID-19 is everywhere around here in the NYC metro area, so is death. :(

Now is not the time to wipe away all the hard fought gains through these last few weeks of sacrifice especially since here in NY the number of new hospitalizations has fallen sharply since the inception of the face mask/face covering requirement two days ago!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 233,951 cases (127,352 - NYC; 22,476 - Westchester) and 12,822 deaths (+630). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 17,131 (+1025).

18 April 2020:
NYC air reeks of the scent of death as the death toll continues to mount, though sharply lower than the record pace of yesterday. As a result, The Daily Mail reported the presence of flocks of vultures eerily circling over areas of Manhattan including the docked hospital ship, One World Trade Center and the financial district among the areas.[1] It should be noted, vultures are capable of detecting the chemical scent the dying emit especially when death is imminent.

In addition, although the number of new hospitalizations is slowing, such progress remains absent when it comes to ICU units as The New York Post has reported -- "ICUs [are] under strain as new coronavirus patients are sicker than ever." To me, this is no coincidence considering the continued shortage of tests and flawed methodology on who qualifies. People end up waiting days or weeks before being tested, if at all such that by the time the results come in, they suffering a life-and-death health crisis that could have been avoided. Because of this, ICUs are now "so packed" in some hospitals that treatment for certain medical events (e.g. sudden cardiac arrest) can no longer be given.[2]

At the same time, calls are being made to shut down the City's subway system for a week so thorough deep cleaning operations can take place since an MIT study indicated the NYC subway system played a significant role in the rapid spread of COVID-19. Even though some critics decry this study, it is no coincidence out of all essential workers, MTA personnel have suffered the greatest number of COVID-19 cases and deaths.

Also, in another horrifying development, it appears nursing homes in the NYC metro area and NJ were storing bodies of the COVID-19 deceased in freezers without reporting it to the proper authorities (e.g. Medical Examiner's office) and families/next of kin. In one such nursing home, staff members with active COVID-19 infections also worked such that the bodies of two staff members were also found in freezers. Considering visits have been prohibited to protect nursing home residents from potential COVID-19 exposure, it appears their motive for not reporting these deaths was to continue to collect money. When the pandemic ends, this fraud needs to be investigated and likely significant reforms made including substantial increase in staff.

Finally, to keep up with my theme about some pastors who are exploiting the pandemic, I must cry out, "Stop trying to monopolize God's salvation!" People need not have to subscribe to your theological ideology or attend your churches to be saved. There are no "unsaved" so stop the bigoted categorization of people. ALL are saved or, to use Paul's words, the cross was "in vain" and Jesus is to be "pitied." And so when God judges, He will declare as Jesus had done with the Leper, "You are clean! Enter My kingdom" based on John 15:3 that states "[we] are already clean..." and Revelation 7:14 "Our robes have been washed and made white in the blood of the lamb."

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 241,041 cases (131,263 - NYC; 23,179 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 17,671 (+540).
_______
[1] Andrew Court. Eerie photos show a flock of vultures circling over an empty Manhattan during lockdown as the NYC's coronavirus death toll soars above 7,000. The Daily Mail. 18 April 2020. www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8232533/Eerie-photos-pack-vultures-circling-New-York-City-amid-coronavirus-pandemic.html

[2] Matthew McDermott. ICUs under strain as NYC's new coronavirus patients are sicker than ever. The New York Post. 16 April 2020. nypost.com/2020/04/16/icus-under-strain-as-nycs-coronavirus-patients-are-sicker-than-ever

19 April 2020:
I took additional documentary photographs of the COVID-19 pandemic in NYC. Although I wore a face mask, it was still a bit unnerving to hear someone coughing almost non-stop with a hard, dry cough as he walked up Madison Avenue without a face mask despite Governor Cuomo's executive order mandating such use. It was especially sad to come across a graffiti message of despair that read: "We all fucking dying."

Despite this message and the fact a Thermo King freezer trailer for COVID-19 deceased was added behind NYU Medical Center, there is hope since it appears NY is finally coming down from its long, miserable plateau even though the daily death toll was back over 600.

In addition, shelves in many NYC metro area stores were finally restocked to some degree such that paper goods, food items that had been missing for weeks and even hand sanitizer (though one small container to a customer) were available in some places.

Many areas (e.g. The "Apple" Store, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Public Libary, Vessel at Hudson Yards, and Grand Central Station) remain desolate. In fact, at times, the only sign of life inside Grand Central Station where trains left empty, were a few pigeons.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 247,215 cases (134,436 - NYC; 23,803 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 18,298 (+627) including 13,240 deaths in NYC and 743 deaths in Westchester County.

20 April 2020:

After a promising start with an early afternoon sub-500 daily death toll for NY, the numbers rose by evening making this another grim day despite the fact NY has likely come off its peak with the number of new hospitalizations decreasing.

As the NYS daily death toll remains at a horrifying level, "refrigerated morgues (Thermo King trailers) [are now] overflowing outside [some] public hospitals [as] crematories [continue to run] around the clock."[1]

The death toll at the local nursing home just two blocks from my residence now stands at 21.

Also, as global economic activity remains at a standstill, the price of oil futures contracts went negative for the first time in history as persons due to receive oil shipments have no place to put it and are willing to pay others to take it off their hands!

In some areas open defiance to the continued shut down/lock down and mandated use of face masks and face coverings has begun to show in the NYC metro area; most residents of Manhattan though appear to be abiding with little objection. In one area, an angry person vandalized a posted notice reminding people of the face mask/face covering and social distancing requirements, writing -- "Also wear a mask in the following locations 1) Bathroom 2) Kitchen 3) Shower 4) In Bed!"

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 252,094 cases (136,806 - NYC; 24,306 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 18,929 (+631) including 13,683 deaths in NYC and 776 deaths in Westchester County.
______
[1] Dana Rubinstein. Cuomo, coronavirus' golden governor, threatens to tarnish his own image. Politico. 20 April 2020. www.politico.com/states/new-york/albany/story/2020/04/17/cuomo-coronavirus-golden-governor-threatens-to-tarnish-his-own-image-1277606

21 April 2020:
As much as President Trump remains fixated on a 1 May re-opening driven purely by emotion instead of scientific facts, the US peak still hasn't been reached. Today, the USA experienced a record daily COVID-19 death toll: +2804. :(

At the same time, NY despite appearing to slowly be descending from the peak, continues to experience a horrific daily death toll again rose above 700, the highest in the last three days. Nevertheless, because of President Trump's myopic view, he is considering trying to compel NY to re-open by this artificial and unrealistic date using the Department of Justice as a threat to sue. Hopefully state leaders maintain their focus on scientific facts, refuse such misguided deadlines so lives can continue to be saved! Also, if so many other states make misguided decisions to re-open, NY and its six partner states may just have to establish border controls to regulate entry and exit of outsiders to protect the health of their residents.

In addition, in just one month COVID-19 killed more Americans than the flu over a year (at least 41,500 from 20 March to 20 April 2020 vs. the 34,000 annual total for seasonal flu[1]) clearly proving COVID-19 is NOT just a bad case of the flu; it is far worse!

Worst yet,"[n]ot only does the new coronavirus have the potential to infect many more people than the seasonal flu does, it appears to kill a greater percentage of those infected. You don’t need to rely on various statistical models to come to that conclusion. You just have to look at the reality of what has already happened... The virus has killed 100 Italian doctors. That doesn’t happen during a bad flu season. The virus has killed 30 employees of the New York City Police Department. That doesn’t happen during a bad flu season..."[2] The virus has also killed family members, friends, co-workers, and people all around countless communities that it's next to impossible not to know someone who has been infected, died or someone who knows such a person. That also doesn't happen during a bad flu season!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 256,555 cases (139,385 - NYC; 24,656 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 19,693 (+764) including 14,427 deaths in NYC and 809 deaths in Westchester County.
______
[1] John McCormack. Coronavirus Kills More Americans in One Month Than the Flu Kills in One Year. National Examiner. 21 April 2020. www.nationalreview.com/2020/04/coronavirus-kills-more-americans-in-one-month-than-the-flu-kills-in-one-year

[2] John McCormack. Coronavirus Kills More Americans in One Month Than the Flu Kills in One Year. National Examiner. 21 April 2020. www.nationalreview.com/2020/04/coronavirus-kills-more-americans-in-one-month-than-the-flu-kills-in-one-year

22 April 2020:
During the 1918 Spanish Influenza pandemic many areas shut down too late and it had deadly consequences. Some day in the future, historians will look back and say, "During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic many areas re-opened too soon and it had deadly consequences!"

Across the USA there is an alarming rush to re-open even though daily new cases continue to exceed 25,000 and the daily death toll remains stuck above 2000. There is no rational reason for this rush to insanity since science does not support such a move. New Zealand and Norway established their own re-opening committees; they consist of scientists and medical personnel and no business leaders since the latter are viewed as having a conflict of interest and being biased when it comes to such an important decision that is a matter of life and death.

Here in the USA, President Trump's re-opening committee has no scientists and no medical personnel! It merely consists of persons involved with business and economics that have no qualifications to act upon scientific data if they even understand it as well as some who have no qualifications whatsoever unless being the President's daughter and son-in-law is a beneficial skill set! Fortunately here in NY, Governor Andrew Cuomo won't allow himself to be bullied to re-open in haste. :) Right now, downstate NY is in no shape to re-open any time soon.

As a follow-up to the National Examiner's article about the refrigerated trailers outside some NYC hospitals "overflowing," the Wall Street Journal mentioned these bodies (COVID-19 victims) are being shipped out-of-state to be cremated since NYC metro area crematories, already operating 24 hours a day have no capacity to handle additional bodies beyond what they are already handling.

Also, if NY was a country it would rank 1st as the hardest hit based on deaths per 1 Million population. The figures are as follows (Deaths / 1M Pop.): 1. New York 1037, 2. Belgium 540, 3. Spain 464, 4. Italy 415, 5. France 327 [Source: Worldometers 8:05 PM EDT 22 April 2020]

Not surprisingly, now two cats have also tested positive in NYC further proof that this virus unlike the vast majority is easily transmissible between species. On a bright note, with face masks and coverings required for a week, there have been no new cases at my workplace for days. :)

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 262,268 cases (142,432 - NYC; 25,276 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 20,354 (+661) including 14,996 deaths in NYC and 838 deaths in Westchester County.

23 April 2020:
Is anyone or anything that breathes safe from COVID-19 in NYC? Aside from the two cats reported to have contracted COVID-19 in yesterday's diary entry, an additional 3 lions and 4 tigers have also tested positive at the Bronx Zoo. If pigeons were tested, would some of them come up positive too? Also, a random study found 21.2% in NYC have antibodies for COVID-19 indicating at some point they had been infected by the virus.

As COVID-19 deaths continue to plague the NYC metro area, several cemeteries have reported triple the number of burials and might have reported even more if they could handle such volume. Although the US daily death toll topped 2000 yet again, NY had a welcome drop below 600.

Nevertheless, NY Governor Cuomo made a statement in line with my previous writings about those who resist the shut downs, whom I've often said, are at least ALIVE! To provide the proper perspective, he declared, "Economic hardship doesn't equal death!" On the same token, divisions between U.S. states have grown significantly greater as some are hell bent on re-opening, throwing safety and science to the wind while others take a pragmatic approach and will not begin to re-open until scientifically justified to prevent/minimize a second-wave outbreak. According to Politico, despite the growing divide between State leaders, 70% of Americans per a CBS News Survey "believe the country's top priority should be to try to slow the spread of" COVID-19 through "keeping people home and social distancing, even if the economy is hurt in the short term."

Also as a grim reminder things have a long way to go before the COVID-19 pandemic can be declared behind us in the NYC metro area, the local nursing home just two blocks from where I live now has a freezer truck parked by its loading dock with electrical wiring running into the building to maintain icy conditions within its trailer for COVID-19 deceased residents. Ironically a turkey vulture circled overhead within proximity of this nursing home just before noon.

At the same time, dystopian fashion wear is becoming mainstream as face masks are designed from bras and lingerie by Atsumi Fashion in Japan while people in greater numbers are placing messages (e.g. scriptural quotes) and picturesque designs on face masks and coverings. Are denim face masks next? Are comments like, "Your face mask is so seductive!" or "Your face mask is so sexy!" far behind and will they shatter attempts to maintain social distancing?

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 268,581 cases (145,855 - NYC; 25,959 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 20,861 (+507) including 15,411 deaths in NYC and 863 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1063, 2. Belgium 560, 3. Spain 474, 4. Italy 423, 5. France 335 [Source: Worldometers 7:50 PM EDT 23 April 2020]

24 April 2020:
With each passing day, it's becoming increasingly likely thanks to protective measures (e.g. wearing of face masks/coverings, social distancing, shut downs) NY is on the downside of the curve. Even the daily death toll has finally fallen below 500, but still remains much too high. The USA, though, as a country continues reaching for the peak with another 38,764 new cases, although the daily death toll finally fell below 2000, even if barely.

As the deaths continue in NYC, COVID-19 is now the second leading cause of death, just behind heart disease that kills 16,670 persons/year and just in front of cancer that kills 13,380 persons/year according to NYC.gov.

In an alarming development, NYC doctors are reporting that many young people in their 30s and 40s who experienced mild COVID-19 symptoms or were asymptomatic are inexplicably suffering devastating strokes since COVID-19 has been found to cause blood clotting for some unknown reason. Doctors have noticed a seven-fold increase in strokes. One doctor at Mt. Sinai Hospital reported that on one night, "there weren't enough doctors to treat all the emergency stroke patients..."[1]

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 277,445 cases (150,473 - NYC; 26,633 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 21,291 (+430) including 15,848 deaths in NYC and 891 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1085, 2. Belgium 576, 3. Spain 482, 4. Italy 430, 5. France 341 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 24 April 2020]
__________
[1] Ariana Eunjung Cha. Young and middle-aged people, barely sick with covid-19, are dying from strokes. Washington Post. 24 April 2020. www.washingtonpost.com/health/2020/04/24/strokes-coronavirus-young-patients

25 April 2020:
New York had a setback with new cases rising above 10,000 again and new daily deaths in excess of 600. In addition, Italian scientists have discovered COVID-19 may be present on particles of air pollution after such particles were captured in Bergamo Province reinforcing the need to wear face masks and coverings even when no one is around.

Also a deceased COVID-19 victim was removed from his residence in a black body bag from across the street from where I live and my organization has now lost 40 employees. No place remains safe in lower NY. :(

On a bright note, NY Governor Andrew Cuomo announced testing will expanded such that most pharmacies will be able to collect samples and just about everyone in need of such a test will now be able to get it. Antibody testing is also being rolled and within a week or so may be available to the masses to facilitate re-opening of the State economy. :)

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 288,313 cases (155,113 - NYC; 27,231 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 21,908 (+617) including 16,270 deaths in NYC and 920 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1117, 2. Belgium 597, 3. Spain 490, 4. Italy 436, 5. France 346 [Source: Worldometers 7:30 PM EDT 25 April 2020]

26 April 2020:

With rainy weather, I did some research to make a comparative analysis between the 1918 Spanish Influenza Pandemic, considered the worst in modern ages that killed up to 50 million people worldwide and 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and their impacts on New York City and New York State. Several interesting facts, including how history is repeating itself in some instances, are worth mentioning:

1. Compared to many cities and regions, New York City and NYS got off relatively easy such that COVID-19 could yet challenge the deadliest pandemic in NYC history since unlike in 1918-19, NYC is the hardest hit area in the entire world. The 1918 Spanish Influenza pandemic resulted in about 30,000 deaths including 20,608 from 15 September 1918 (when NYC recorded its first death) through 16 November 1918 alone based on methodology consistent with that being used today in NY -- confirmed and probable deaths (the latter pneumonia and pneumonia-related in 1918-19).

2. Initial reactions were nearly identical with early statements from the World Health Organization (WHO) -- urged people to "be vigilant" while stating the chance of contracting COVID-19 was "low risk." Likewise when a Norwegian liner, the Bergensfjord docked in New York Harbor on 11 August 1918 with 11 infected passengers and 10 infected crew members followed by additional ships with sick crew and passengers, the equivalent of the many cruise ships that served as virus incubators early on in the COVID-19 pandemic, officials quickly stated, "The public has no reason for alarm..."[1]

3. Like many in 2020 who dismissively called COVID-19 "just a bad case of the flu," early in the 1918 pandemic, Spanish influenza was viewed as "just another round of seasonal flu."[2] Of course, the rest is history and will also hold true when the COVID-19 pandemic is concluded.

Despite the gloominess of this rainy day, there was actually brightness. The number of new hospitalizations fell for the ninth straight day and new deaths fell to +367, the lowest level since 31 March 2020. Because of this, NY Governor Cuomo declared, "There's no doubt, we've gone through the worst and as long as we act prudently going forward, the worst is over..."

Due to the improvement, NY Governor Cuomo also discussed details about re-opening the State's economy with construction and manufacturing being the first to resume operations as early as 15 May 2020 followed by other businesses based on how essential they are. He did, though add, NYC would be more challenging because of population density, its sizable population and reliance on mass transit.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 293,991 cases (158,258 - NYC; 27,664 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 22,275 (+367) including 16,673 deaths in NYC and 946 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1135, 2. Belgium 612, 3. Spain 496, 4. Italy 441, 5. France 350 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 26 April 2020]

____________
[1] Pauline Toole. The Flu Epidemic of 1918. NYS Department of Records & Information Services. 26 April 2020. www.archives.nyc/blog/2018/3/1/the-flu-epidemic-of-1918

[2] Linda Poon. Remembering the 'Mother of All Pandemics,' 100 years later. City Lab. 18 September 2018. www.citylab.com/life/2018/09/spanish-flu-outbreak-1918-new-york-city-public-health-germ-city-museum/569947

Additional Sources:
Francesco Aimone. The 1918 Influenza Epidemic in New York City: A Review of the Public Health Response. U.S. National Library of Medicine/National Institutes of Health. 2010. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2862336

The American Influenza Pandemic of 1918-1919. Influenza Encyclopedia. 26 April 2020. www.influenzaarchive.org/cities/city-newyork.html

27 April 2020:
Things continue to improve in NY with new cases rising under 4000 and deaths remaining under 400 for the second day in a row. In addition, my immediate boss and a colleague returned to work after having fallen ill to COVID-19, the former having lost his father to the same illness. Despite this, NY Governor Cuomo warned many businesses will not re-open come 15 May, 2020 especially in the NYC metro area that has been so hard it. This is critical since social distancing was the key to "flattening the curve" during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic[1] in NYC and many other cities. It is also critical the past mistake made by San Francisco to re-open too soon during this pandemic isn't repeated since it had a devastating effect.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 298,004 cases (160,489 - NYC; 28,007 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 22,623 (+348) including 16,936 deaths in NYC and 962 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1153, 2. Belgium 622, 3. Spain 503, 4. Italy 446, 5. France 357 [Source: Worldometers 8:15 PM EDT 27 April 2020]
____________
[1] Nina Strochlic and Riley D. Champine. How some cities 'flattened the curve' during the 1918 flu pandemic. National Geographic. 27 March 2020. www.nationalgeographic.com/history/2020/03/how-cities-flattened-curve-1918-spanish-flu-pandemic-coronavirus

28 April 2020:
While things are beginning to look up for NY, with critical contractors being recalled to work and growing optimism the worst is behind us, caution must remain. The daily death toll rose again above 500, which is much too high to consider a re-opening for the NYC metro area and included one of my brother Don's colleagues.

At the same time, other positive news also exists -- a visiting pastor's son who had been in critical condition for weeks after having been afflicted by COVID-19 was discharged from the hospital and a 101-year-old NYC woman who had survived the 1918 Spanish Influenza and was pronounced recovered from COVID-19.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 301,450 cases (162,338 - NYC; 28,245 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 23,144 (+521) including 17,215 deaths in NYC and 983 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1180, 2. Belgium 633, 3. Spain 510, 4. Italy 453, 5. United Kingdom 373*, 6. France 362 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 28 April 2020]
*Retroactive adjustment after uncounted deaths were added on 29 April 2020.

29 April 2020:
Today the United Kingdom revised their COVID-19 death toll after analyzing some 4000+ unaccounted for deaths from private hospitals, homes, and nursing homes to present a more accurate accounting. Considering the New York Times has reported deaths in NYC alone have been 6 times higher than normal since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic here, it is time NYC and NYS also revise their tolls to present a more accurate counting. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic there have been 20,900 more deaths than expected in NYC with the vast majority attributed to the virus where coroners merely listed cause of death as pneumonia, respiratory failure, heart failure, etc. Furthermore, "[E]ven with these high totals, the recent numbers... are most likely an understatement." Add NYS as a whole where analysis hasn't been performed and the state-wide numbers are even higher in New York. Right now the best estimates are up to 30,000 dead in NYC and 40,000 dead in NYS as a whole. This is consistent when data is taken from 12 other countries that indicate death tolls about twice as high as reported.[1]

Even though the situation continues to improve renewing optimism about a partial re-opening, NY Governor Cuomo is correct when he insists on a "circuit breaker" to immediately shut down everything in places where hospitalizations reach 70% of capacity or the number of new cases = 1.1 to every infected patient. To reinforce the fact, the situation remains serious here in lower NY, I came across an ambulance where paramedics loaded a patient suffering from COVID-19 respiratory distress.

Also, as an essential worker, I had my blood drawn for a COVID-19 antibody test. The results will be shared with New York State and other governmental authorities as is one of the conditions. I should know the results -- if I have such antibodies or do not within 48 to 72 hours except if the weekend interferes, which in that case would mean by about Monday, May 4th.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 305,086 cases (164,841 - NYC; 28,626 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 23,474 (+330) including 17,589 deaths in NYC and 1006 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1197, 2. Belgium 647, 3. Spain 519, 4. Italy 458, 5. United Kingdom 384 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 29 April 2020]

________
[1] Josh Katz and Margot Sanger-Katz. N.Y.C. Deaths Reach 6 Times The Normal, Far More Than Coronavirus Count Suggests. The New York Times. 27 April 2020. www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/04/27/upshot/coronavirus-deaths-new-york-city.html

30 April 2020:
Even though the number of ICU cases continues to decline, NYC today experienced an uptick in new COVID-19 hospitalizations, a key indicator lower NY is not ready to re-open despite mounting pressure for a reckless easing of "stay-at-home" policies. If the sudden surge of cases across Europe and the need to reinstate the shutdown of major cities is any indicator, this will also happen in the USA. Even if President Trump won't acknowledge this, government officials have and FEMA has ordered an additional 100,000 body bags. Who in their right mind would push such a re-opening when the USA continues to experience 30,000 new cases and 2000+ new deaths per day? SMH!

Also in a horrifying development in NYC, police discovered between 40 to 60 bodies of COVID-19 victims stored in unrefrigerated U-Haul trucks and laid across the floor of an overwhelmed Brooklyn funeral. Another heart breaking NYC story consists of a couple that died within minutes of each other from COVID-19 after 73 years of marriage. The deaths are real and I'll keep saying this as long as there are ignorant people out there that deny them!

Also, Florida political leaders forced their medical examiners to halt releasing coronavirus death data, a page taken from the books of "banana" republics as misguided politicians from the Governor (DeSantis) down, attempted to "cover their asses" after their insane decision to re-open the state's beaches. Worst yet, Florida Governor DeSantis had his surgeon general removed from a press conference after he said, "social distancing was still needed."

Also texted with my cousin. Pasadena has 25 total COVID-19 deaths, unfortunately one that includes her mother, my aunt compared to here where its a coronavirus hellstorm especially when you add NJ (Bergen County) and CT (Fairfield County) that border the NYC metro area, states that would rank 2nd and 5th, respectively, behind NY per Deaths/1M Population if they were countries.

Some good news, though, also exists. The UK after squandering a month-and-a-half finally recommended Brits wear face masks and coverings and NYC subways will be shutdown each night for four hours (1 AM to 5 AM) for thorough deep cleaning/sanitizing operations.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 310,389 cases (167,478 - NYC; 28,970 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 23,780 (+306) including 17,866 deaths in NYC and 1031 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1212, 2. Belgium 655, 3. Spain 525, 4. Italy 463, 5. United Kingdom 394 [Source: Worldometers 8:00 PM EDT 30 April 2020]

1 May 2020:
On a day the USA had a record number of 36,007 new COVID-19 cases and 1897 deaths, 30 states began some form of re-opening threatening an avalanche of new cases and deaths that will very likely undo the hard-fought progress in many areas. :( With reports the COVID-19 pandemic could last up to two years, I can only wonder is this some kind of depraved race to shatter mortality records set during the 1918 influenza pandemic? My brother Don texted me an appropriate cartoon for the day that showed a crowd of people with signs that read, "Re-Open Now!" "Liberate us!" and "The Pandemic is a Hoax!" among other things standing in front of a doctor dressed in PPE with a simple sign that read, "See You Soon!" If I had created that cartoon, I would have had an undertaker instead of a doctor holding that sign! To deal with the inevitable aftermath, it might be appropriate if the next "stimulus" consisted of a body bag for each person.

Also, as President Trump continues to act irrationally threatening new tariffs on China to exacerbate the coming Great Depression, NY Governor Cuomo acted prudently. He rejected the White House's recommendation to re-open schools and declared them closed for the remainder of the 2019-20 academic year to ensure progress continues in combating the COVID-19 virus that has already cost so many lives here.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 315,222 cases (169,690 - NYC; 28,970 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 24,069 (+289) including 18,231 deaths in NYC and 1049 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1227, 2. Belgium 665, 3. Spain 531, 4. Italy 467, 5. United Kingdom 405 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 1 May 2020]

2 May 2020:
My test results came back this morning. I tested negative for COVID-19 antibodies, which means I was never infected. :) To me, this is great news since there is no way I could have passed on anything to anyone especially in the local nursing home two blocks from where I live and access at least five days a week. :) I attribute my good fortune to God and wisdom -- wearing an N-95 face mask after my initial direct exposure to a co-worker who came down with Coronavirus before I started wearing a face mask, and rubber gloves as well as constant de-sanitizing of my hands and clothes. Of course, I will continue to take precautionary measures as long as the pandemic persists since I reject the notion of any need to be infected for "herd immunity" as some suggest. Besides how reliable is it when one considers estimates of immunity range from 1 to 2 months up to 2 years at a max and so many people are experiencing "False Dawn" recoveries (re-developing symptoms and testing positive again after achieving a negative test).

In a disturbing development, a nursing home in NYC reported 98 deaths after 1010 WINS news exposed them in a story. In a related article about them, it was written, "The number of bodies became so overwhelming the home ordered a refrigerator truck to store them."[1]

One of my close friends at work tested positive yet again, which means he needs to wait at least another 14 days before returning to work if, hopefully he tests negative next time. I suppose patience must be a virtue. Fortunately he is feeling a lot better. :)

Also new deaths in NYC were remarkably low, if +51, although still too high, is a positive sign, and a far cry from weeks of daily triple digit figures. Hope this is the beginning the end of NYC's mortality and a positive development for NYS as a whole. If so, this will be great news! :) My fingers are crossed.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 319,213 cases (172,354 - NYC; 29,626 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 24,368 (+299) including 18,282 deaths in NYC and 1067 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1242, 2. Belgium 670, 3. Spain 537, 4. Italy 475, 5. United Kingdom 414 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 2 May 2020]
__________________

[1] Jim Mustian. Local Nursing Home Reports 98 Deaths Linked to Coronavirus. NBC News. 1 May 2020. www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/ny-nursing-home-reports-98-deaths-linked-coronavirus/2399097

3 May 2020:
Despite improvements when it comes to hospitalizations and ICU patients, deaths remain present and real, including literally next door to my residence. Late last night under the cover of darkness, 10:12 PM EDT to be exact, I came across a disturbing scene in the fire circle where my apartment building is located. Several members of the National Guard had arrived to collect the body of a deceased COVID-19 victim who had succumbed in the building next to mine. They placed it into a Thermo King® freezer truck with several other bodies they had already collected earlier, the type whose trailers are on site at just about every NYC metro hospital. Sadly, this wasn't their first pickup and wasn't going to be their last, as the National Guard assists Medical Examiner's personnel who remain overwhelmed because of the COVID-19 pandemic's significant mortality numbers in lower NY.

NY Governor Cuomo announced that NY, CT, DE, MA, NJ, PA, and RI will join forces to coordinate and procure medical supplies as a consortium and that NYS hospitals going forward would be required to establish and maintain a 90-day supply of protective medical equipment to ensure adequate preparations for future outbreaks and pandemics.

Also considering today was a beautiful day in the low 80s, my wife accompanied me to NYC. Both of us wore N-95 face masks and social distanced, which is perfectly legal under existing guidelines, while I took a handful of photographs on and around the Brooklyn Bridge to document the COVID-19 pandemic in NYC.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 323,883 cases (174,331 - NYC; 29,884 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 24,648 (+280) including 18,706 deaths in NYC and 1203 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1256, 2. Belgium 677, 3. Spain 540, 4. Italy 478, 5. United Kingdom 419 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 3 May 2020]

4 May 2020:
As many parts of the USA embrace insanity and beaches are reported as "jungles" where social distancing and face masks aren't even a consideration and the Trump administration considers a projected peak COVID-19 daily death toll of 3000 by 1 June 2020 as an acceptable trade-off for economic restoration, I can only hope prudent Governors stand firm, especially since California Governor Newsom appears ready to cave in from measures that have spared his state the carnage NY saw early on in the pandemic. Accepting the equivalent of a 9/11 a day to satisfy the desires of some is sick! Accordingly, NY Governor Cuomo was 100% correct when he said of the re-open protesters, whom 75% of the country do not support, "You have no right to jeopardize my health!" They have no right to jeopardize any of our health and when you look at them, few practice social distancing or wear face masks. If they can't take these simple steps, they cannot and should not be trusted to re-open!

Also, on the first night NYC subways were shutdown for thorough cleaning, two bodies were found. While cause of death may be COVID-19, only a pathology report can determine this.

Finally, there could be a potential breakthrough in stopping COVID-19 even though in all probability, more work still needs to be done to say for sure -- but scientists at Utrecht University and Erasmus Medical Centre, both in the Netherlands and Harbour BioMed (HBM), Cambridge, UK have reported discovering a possible antibody that prevents COVID-19 from infecting cells.
uk.news.yahoo.com/coronavirus-scientists-hail-groundbreaking-discovery-antibody-prevents-infection-094100793.html

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 327,374 cases (175,651 - NYC; 30,097 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 24,944 (+296) including 18,909 deaths in NYC and 1220 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1271, 2. Belgium 684, 3. Spain 544, 4. Italy 481, 5. United Kingdom 423 [Source: Worldometers 8:10 PM EDT 4 May 2020]

5 May 2020:
Despite lower numbers "death" remains very real and present here in lower NY. NYS nursing homes reported another 1700 COVID-19 deaths over the last week or so, a horrifying number yet to be included in official stats. The local nursing just two blocks from where I live now has 37 such deaths, the most in Westchester County. :( Second, some area cemeteries now have freezer trailers of their own, unable to keep up with all the deceased they are receiving. Third, as states and the Feds rush to re-open as much of the economy as they can get away with, they are accepting a trade-off of deaths for dollars. :( Fourth, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) model now projects 134,000 COVID-19 deaths in the USA by early August, an increase of 34,000 from previous estimates. Despite this, there are still deniers with a little over 20% of the country believing the COVID-19 death toll is overstated, a repeat of history when during the 1918 influenza pandemic many downplayed the numbers. As they were wrong then, they are wrong today!

With these sober numbers, NY Governor Cuomo has refused to partake in this insanity, saying there will be "no trade-off in lives" and there will be a "circuit breaker" to shut down whatever begins to re-open after 15 May, if necessary. For this he should be applauded!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 330,139 cases (176,874 - NYC; 30,240 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 25,204 (+260) including 19,107 deaths in NYC and 1236 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1285, 2. Belgium 692, 3. Spain 548, 4. Italy 485, 5. United Kingdom 433 [Source: Worldometers 8:35 PM EDT 5 May 2020]

6 May 2020:
As the saying goes -- "We're in this together!" but some of the selfish disagree. They refuse to cover their faces and/or social distance, yet many scream for an end to the shutdowns. Their self-centered acts ruin it for all! As a result, after experiencing weeks of declining cases, Westchester County saw a sudden, sharp increase last night. Now the clock must start over; any re-opening here will have to wait and the selfish have only themselves to blame!

And those who do right -- cover their faces and social distance -- are supposed to feel sorry for these same selfish people should they get infected, which they will and already are or empathize with them when they cry poverty? Oh please! Their reckless acts cause others physical (health) and economic harm! So, to quote Justin Timberlake, "Cry me a river!"

What about that 90 year-old woman who would like to enjoy the outdoors but remains confined within her apartment since neighbors refuse to cover their faces? Is she supposed to remain a prisoner in her apartment forever to appease the depraved narcissism of the selfish? Are people supposed to accept getting sick to satisfy this fringe minority?

Considering these selfish people cannot be trusted to do right with small matters as they have demonstrated, they cannot be trusted with larger matters and so NYS leaders are correct -- there can be no rush to re-open here in lower NY. Life and health come first! Period! Without exception! This is even more imperative when a Penn State study indicates a prompt and complete re-opening under the current COVID-19 conditions will cause the death toll to skyrocket to 350,000 in the USA.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 333,491 cases (178,351 - NYC; 30,426 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 25,956 (+752) including 19,297 deaths in NYC and 1285 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1323, 2. Belgium 720, 3. Spain 553, 4. Italy 491, 5. United Kingdom 443 [Source: Worldometers 7:45 PM EDT 6 May 2020]

7 May 2020:
What I had feared and seemed so obvious back in March, the 24th to be exact, when I called for NY's borders to be sealed shut to prevent the spread of COVID-19, has now been confirmed. Per today's edition of The New York Times, starting in March, NYC "was the primary source of new infections" and travel from NYC "seeded outbreaks around the country." www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/travel-from-new-york-city-seeded-wave-of-us-outbreaks/ar-BB13J7Yx

To further illustrate this, the first confirmed COVID-19 case in NJ was traced back to a resident who worked at Yonkers Raceway in Westchester. This employee was exposed by an unknown spectator who had been symptomatic and had come up from NYC to watch the races. Today, if NJ was a country, it would rank 2nd in the world with 993 deaths / million population. Connecticut that borders Westchester County would rank third with 781 deaths/ million population. Further to show how devastating this pandemic has been in the NYC metro region, the hardest hit counties outside NYC are located in and around NYC and the hardest hit areas of NJ and CT border the NYC metro area.

What may or may not be good news -- the freezer trailer located outside the nursing home in my local community was removed late this afternoon. If a replacement trailer isn't needed, that's great news. If a replacement trailer is brought, then sadly, it's bad news.

Tomorrow unemployment numbers for the USA are released. I expect at least a 16% unemployment rate considering some 33 million people are now out of work -- great depression numbers (an event I had mentioned back on 12 March 2020). :( Yes, unfortunately most countries are being hit by a one-two punch: significant pandemic and economic depression. :( Still, as generations have recovered in the past, we too will overcome!

Last, a valet who has close interaction with President Trump was confirmed positive. Perhaps this may give some deniers reason for pause and a much needed reality check: COVID-19 is very real and deadly.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 337,170 cases (180,216 - NYC; 30,708 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 26,365 (+409) including 19,540 deaths in NYC and 1305 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1344, 2. Belgium 726, 3. Spain 558, 4. Italy 495, 5. United Kingdom 451 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 7 May 2020]

8 May 2020:
The U.S. unemployment rate rose to 14.7%, the highest since the Great Depression. As bad as it is, it could have been worse and so the Dow Jones Industrial average rose 455 points.

Even though the situation continues to improve in NYS, my wife learned a participant in an instruction-room environment where she works, died of COVID-19 on Monday, 4 May 2020, only days after her husband had also died of the same virus. :(

On a brighter note, a replacement freezer trailer was not brought to the nursing home in my local community, a positive sign things have improved there. :) Also from an ecological perspective, Bloomberg News has reported due to drastic drops in energy congestion, air travel, traffic consumption and other means of pollution, 2.6 billion metric tons of Carbon dioxide (CO2) or 8% of the estimated total for the year, will never be emitted.

Last, with this pandemic so surreal, the weather here in lower NY has also decided to add its own touch -- Snow is in the forecast for tonight; snow in May! It will be the first time since 1977 there has been snow in May in lower NY! Imagine that, on top of NYC coming off its first April since 1940 without a 70°F / 21.11° C temperature reading, in this era of rapid global warming!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 340,472 cases (181,783 - NYC; 30,905 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 26,585 (+220) including 19,702 deaths in NYC and 1316 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1367, 2. Belgium 735, 3. Spain 562, 4. Italy 500, 5. United Kingdom 460 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 8 May 2020]

9 May 2020:
Late yesterday an ariticle in Vanity proved the obvious that face masks and coverings provide substantial protection. The USA was compared with several progressive Asian countries where it's cultural for people to wear face masks and coverings during times of sickness. The conclusion: If face masks are worn by 80% or more of the population, case loads are reduced by up to 98%! Japan, when population adjustments are made, had only about 2% of the USA's caseload and that is without shutdowns and lockdowns! This is further proof if the people screaming for an end to the lockdowns/shutdowns did the right thing and wore a face mask or covering, businesses could re-open sooner rather than later.

Also at about 1:45 AM, the rain did change over to snow, including at Central Park in NYC, even though it didn't accumulate in my area and a trace was recorded at Central Park (tied for the latest ever measurable snow with 1977). Later in the day there were waves of snow squalls, which were especially impressive considering snow fell at mid afternoon into the evening! Wind chills ranged from 19° F / -7.22° C (4:56 AM EDT) to 29° F / -1.67° C for much of the day and even at one point, 25° F / -3.89° C in NYC! Record low temperatures were also recorded in Westchester and NYC, respectively, -- 32° F/ 0° C (the latest ever "freezing" reading) and 34° F/ 1.11° C.

I have to admit, it was nice wearing winter gloves instead of rubber gloves. :)

In addition, today was the best day in a long time for NYS with daily deaths finally falling below 200. Sadly though, the associate pastor at my wife's church passed away last night from COVID-19 complications. :(

From an economic standpoint, things continue to deteriorate. In my hometown, more than 100 vehicles lined up at the local food bank. Worst yet, numerous banks have been closed for about four days straight for no apparent reason other than to stifle withdrawals since their ATM machines have no cash for withdrawal. This is a terrible move since it could create panic situations like during the Great Depression such that there could be runs when these banks finally re-open. :(

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 343,409 cases (183,289 - NYC; 31,087 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 26,771 (+186) including 19,795 deaths in NYC and 1328 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1376, 2. Belgium 740, 3. Spain 566, 4. Italy 503, 5. United Kingdom 465 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 9 May 2020]

10 May 2020:
On this Mother's Day, NY had its best day since 20 March 2020 with less than 2000 new cases. Everyone who has been social distancing, staying home and wearing a face mask or covering to help stop the spread deserves a round of applause! Their efforts are paying off in spite of the selfish who care less about others. All essential workers, especially the doctors, nurses, paramedics, and EMTs on the front lines, also deserve a round of applause.

Perhaps NY is finally emerging from -- to use the words of NY Governor Andrew Cuomo -- "this hellish journey" over a month-and-a-half span from 20 March to 9 May, 2020. Of course caution is still needed to ensure these hard fought gains aren't reversed.

As part of this caution, Governor Cuomo announced new rules for nursing homes: All staff must be tested for COVID-19 twice a week, nursing homes must promptly transfer residents who test positive to other facilities if they do not have the capability of caring for them with proper isolation and hospitals will no longer be permitted to discharge residents back to nursing homes unless they test negative for COVID-19. Even though it's late in the game, these rules will still help reduce the number of future COVID-19 cases in nursing homes and thus go a long way towards saving lives.

Considering this is Mother's Day, I conclude with captions of prayers to the Blessed Mother with a COVID-19 specific addition:

"Mother of God, Health of the Sick... Comforter of the Afflicted... Embrace all who are physically ill [from COVID-19] that they may return to good health... Please intercede for [our] very urgent needs [and] Pray for us!"

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 345,406 cases (184,417 - NYC; 31,294 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 26,818* (+207) including 19,931 deaths in NYC and 1341 deaths in Westchester County.

*Toll doesn't add up due to reconciliation of figures based on latest data that resulted in revisions.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1378, 2. Belgium 747, 3. Spain 569, 4. Italy 505, 5. United Kingdom 469 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 10 May 2020]

11 May 2020:
NY had its best "metrics" since 19 March 2020 re: new cases and the daily death toll. Accordingly, NY Governor Andrew Cuomo declared, "We're on the other side of the mountain" and discussed a partial re-opening of three upstate regions by this Friday (15 May 2020) that have met the established criteria for a phase 1 re-opening -- calling it an "exciting new phase."
Truly, the sun is rising again! Yet, as things improve, there is talk about a "second wave" that some dread may even be worse than this hell NY just went through. I would like to think such a "second wave" can be avoided if everyone acts responsibly.

At the same time, scientists reported males were more likely to contract COVID-19 and suffer serious effects and possibly die than females because of a significantly higher level of a key enzyme that assists the virus' invasion of healthy cells -- Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2).

Also, what has been obvious to many of us in NY, the CDC today reported it is likely the NYC COVID-19 death toll (and thus the state death toll) is "likely much higher..." especially as scientists have learned COVID-19 "attacks much more than the respiratory system, identifying circulatory, digestive, and neurological problems tied to the virus..." that have also led to an increase in heart attacks and strokes. They also pointed out 24,000 more people died in NYC than normal from 11 March to 2 May, 2020 and calculated an additional 5293 deaths likely attributable to COVID-19.[1]

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 347,151 cases (185,357 - NYC; 31,384 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 27003 (+185) including 20,013 deaths in NYC and 1349 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1388, 2. Belgium 751, 3. Spain 572, 4. Italy 508, 5. United Kingdom 472 [Source: Worldometers 8:15 PM EDT 11 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020)[1]:
New York State: 32,296 / 1660 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 25,306

________________________
[1] Berkeley Lovelace, Jr. CDC finds New York City Coronavirus death toll may be much worse than official tally. MSNBC. 11 May 2020. www.cnbc.com/2020/05/11/cdc-finds-additional-5000-nyc-deaths-possibly-linked-to-coronavirus.html

12 May 2020:
The last 24 hours here in the USA to borrow on the title of Charles Dickens' 1859 classic, featured "A Tale of Two Countries!" After President Trump received a briefing that new US COVID-19 cases continued to rise by 1.3% fueled by "large outbreaks" in the heartland, he went on air an hour-and-a-half later declaring, "We have met the moment and we have prevailed!" Today, Dr. Anthony Fauci of the CDC testified, the COVID-19 pandemic is not under control in the USA and warned if states open too soon, they run the risk of "triggering a worse outbreak... that you might not be able to control" with even "worse economic impacts" not to mention the "needless suffering and death[s]" that will result.

NY Governor Cuomo, on the other hand is taking a prudent approach that recognizes Dr. Fauci's concerns with a gradual, region-oriented re-opening that will include real time monitoring in the event an immediate pull back may be required if COVID-19 "infections increase again."

In response to the prudent steps by Governor Cuomo and others that reject a zero-sum reckless all-or-none gamble, President Trump has urged his supporters to "liberate" their states, a clear call for insurrection or rebellion against legitimate authority and laws that per 18 U.S. Code § 2383 would render him "incapable of holding... office." He needs to tone down this dangerous rhetoric that puts his re-election bid ahead of life and health.

To highlight this, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) model now projects 147,000 COVID-19 deaths in the USA by early Augus, an increase of yet another 13,000 from its 5 May 2020 projection. Even NY despite its hard fought battle remains vulnerable to a new surge of cases and deaths if much of the rest of the country recklessly puts caution aside unless some sort of border controls are introduced to keep potential new COVID-19 carriers from entering the state.

On a more personal note, Don reported that a female sociology major at his college died from COVID-19. Although the daily NYC deaths are now less, tragically they're still happening. :(

Also, the Sioux Indians in South Dakota have maintained their courageous stand and refused to remove check points established on their autonomous lands (reservation property) to protect them against COVID-19 to ensure they don't suffer the same as their Navajo counterparts in Arizona who have been decimated by COVID-19 or create a new "Trail of Tears" when their peoples needlessly suffer and die.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 348,655 cases (186,123 - NYC; 31,472 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 27,175 (+172) including 20,237 deaths in NYC and 1360 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1397, 2. Belgium 756, 3. Spain 576, 4. Italy 511, 5. United Kingdom 482 [Source: Worldometers 4:30 PM EDT 12 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 32,468 / 1669 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 25,530

13 May 2020:
On a day when combined models are predicting 110,000 COVID-19 deaths in the USA by 6 June 2020 with 84,000+ (a figure likely understated, and perhaps significantly understated) , U.S. President Trump has begun to act like the repugnant leaders in non-democratic states that have under reported and concealed mortality figures. He is demanding the CDC alter existing methodology to significantly reduce the existing and forecast counts. His intellectually dishonest and unethical demands can only be condemned in the strongest words since they do a great disservice to science, undermine independent reporting agencies (e.g. medical examiners' offices, hospitals, etc.) and are an insensitive and provocative affront to deceased victims, their families, friends, the USA, and the world as a whole.

Today, while NYS continues to see progress, numerous media sources have reported that there has been surge of new cases in Republican-controlled areas with Texas, having commenced with re-openings on 1 May 2020 now a COVID-19 hot spot having experienced more than 1000 new cases for the last five consecutive days. Consequently it's prudent parts of NYS -- lower NY may remain partially shutdown through August 2020.

I also learned via posted notice that a neighbor, Bernice, who had lived one floor above me, passed away from "COVID-19-related complications." Likewise, CNN also reported St. Peter's Catholic Church in lower Manhattan, which I had attended during January through February 2002 when I served more than a month on jury duty in the Southern District of NY, lost 44 members from Coronavirus. :( Even if President Trump wants to falsely and sadistically revise Coronavirus mortality figures downward, the fact remains and always will -- each and every COVID-19 death is real and represents an actual person who had painfully and sadly succumbed to this horrible virus.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 350,848 cases (187,250 - NYC; 31,611 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 27,290 (+115) including 20,316 deaths in NYC and 1368 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1403, 2. Belgium 763, 3. Spain 580, 4. Italy 514, 5. United Kingdom 489 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 13 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 32,583 / 1675 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 25,609

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 85,197

14 May 2020:
The latest projections indicate the global economy will shrink by 3.2% in 2020, the largest annual contraction since the Great Depression in the 1930s, putting notions of "V-shaped" recoveries to rest. :( At the same time, Federal Reserve Bank Chairman Jerome Powell warned additional stimulus payments are necessary to ensure the USA doesn't enter a vicious deflationary cycle. Just yesterday it was reported the producer price index (PPI) that excludes energy costs fell by 0.4%, the steepest decline since 1957.

At the same time, Dr. Rick Bright warned of a "dark winter" ahead if adequate measures are not maintained to contain COVID-19. Not surprisingly, President Trump's hacks have sought to discredit Chairman Powell and Dr. Bright as well as anyone that challenges their fantasy narrative of a quick "V-shaped" recovery and so-called "overstated" Coronavirus figures since their credibility is diminished by the day. President Trump even falsely accused one of his critics of having committed murder! Consequently, the Houston Chronicle ran the following headline: "Trump rages against foes as Coronavirus spreads!"

In fact, when the COVID-19 crisis began to unfold in the USA, most people did not place blame on the Trump administration. Likewise, I doubt many people cared about the sudden economic collapse valuing health and life ahead of Dollars and hold the U.S. President responsible for geopolitical realities outside his control. However, for inexplicable reasons, President Trump has chosen to cast the upcoming November 2020 election as a referendum on the economy and taken irrational steps that include but are not limited to denying facts, withholding objective guidance, throwing caution to the wind and vilifying those who disagree -- moves that will undoubtedly result in immense suffering and death -- real acts of murder.

Also to illustrate the true magnitude of the COVID-19 death toll that President Trump wants to expunge from the record, LiveScience reported COVID-19 is "killing 20 times more people per week than the flu does... in the deadliest week of an average influenza season."[1]

On a brighter note, NY Governor Cuomo announced that five regions instead of the original three, based on scientific data, will begin a partial re-opening tomorrow! :) Last, let it be known no matter how hard things may appear or how long the road, no pandemic and/or economic challenge is too great for humanity. We will overcome this like every other challenge!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 353,096 cases (188,545 - NYC; 31,792 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 27,426 (+136) including 20,406 deaths in NYC and 1380 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1410, 2. Belgium 768, 3. Spain 584, 4. Italy 519, 5. United Kingdom 495 [Source: Worldometers 7:30 PM EDT 14 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 32,719 / 1682 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 25,699

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 86,912
______________
[1] Rachel Rettner. COVID-19 is killing 20 times more people per week than flu does, new paper says. LiveScience. 14 May 2020. www.livescience.com/covid-19-deaths-vs-flu-deaths.html

15 May 2020:
Today five regions in NYS began a partial re-opening with the hope this can usher in larger scale re-openings over larger parts of the state. At the same time, NY Governor Cuomo extended stay-at-home orders for the remainder of the state through 13 June 2020.

Discomforting trends, though, are developing as more areas re-open. Texas is now a COVID-19 hot spot, US cases continue to rise at an uncomfortable level as do the deaths and people are losing their sense of caution. Per Gallup, due to the spread of re-openings, only 58% now describe themselves as social distancing from the 75% figure a week earlier.

Not surprisingly, this trend can also be seen in NY where the number of new cases as risen for a third straight day and deaths have also inched higher.

However, there is also great news if officials at Sorrento Therapeutics in San Diego, CA are correct with their assessment that they have found an antibody -- STI-1499 that can provide "100% inhibition" of the COVID-19 virus such that it cannot attach to cells and the human body can be cleared of it within about four days. This discovery, if it holds, could provide much needed relief since the US COVID-19 death toll is expected to reach 100,000 by 1 June and based on mortality figures prior to 1 March 2020 in the USA and extrapolations, the nation's COVID-19 death toll could be as much as three times the official figure.

Also since China has vastly under-reported its cases and COVID-19 death toll, I spent the last two days piecing together data based on excess death reports, demand for urns, crematorium capacity and the fact for weeks many operated 24 hours a day leading to well documented pollution reports, the inexplicable closure of cell phone accounts even though cell phones are a necessity in China, leaked info re: actual cases vs. reported cases in 230 Chinese cities, and Tencent's 6 February 2020 full disclosure before it was pulled down. Sadly, the Chinese COVID-19 death toll is approximately 221,175 as of 15 May 2020 and even this figure may be understated based on per capita figures of other countries that have provided reliable reports to the best of their ability.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 356,016 cases (190,357 - NYC; 31,943 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 27,574 (+148) including 20,470 deaths in NYC and 1392 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1417, 2. Belgium 773, 3. Spain 587, 4. Italy 523, 5. United Kingdom 501 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 15 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 32,867 / 1689 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 25,763

U.S.Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 88,507

16 May 2020:
Continuing on China's approximate COVID-19 death toll as of 15 May 2020 that is 221,175, Beijing should not entirely view it as a failure considering so many other countries were also slow to react costing precious time. Furthermore, this number represents 159 Deaths / 1 M Population compared to the 270 Deaths / 1 M Population figure of the USA as of 15 May 2020. A key reason for the significantly lower total is Beijing enforced "hard" lock downs starting with Wuhan and the Hubei Province (home to 60 million people) on 23 January 2020 that at its peak was extended to 760 million people who were permitted to leave their homes only for food, medicine, and to seek medical care. Chinese citizens were prohibited from traveling between the nation's provinces. Just about everyone in China also wore a face mask. The USA, on the other hand, with the exception of the few states that experimented with border controls, enacted a "soft" lock down permitting people to go out doors for more than mere necessities and allowed them to freely travel between states facilitating virus spread. Many states also did not require face masks and face coverings also facilitating virus spread. So China can laud itself for painful measures that helped significantly -- otherwise their COVID-19 death toll could likely be two to even four times higher.

With that said, questions still need to be answered since Chinese officials claim they didn't know who contagious COVID-19 was until 19 January 2020. Yet they destroyed COVID-19 samples on 3 January 2020 claiming it was to protect the public from the risk of infectious spread since some of the labs having specimens weren't qualified to hold "highly infectious diseases." Three days later, the World Health Organization (WHO) considered the risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus "low" despite stating, "there was evidence of human-to-human transmission in Wuhan" adding, further investigation was needed to "understand the full extend of [this] transmission." As late as 28 January 2020, WHO still erroneously claimed human-to-human transmission was "limited."

In addition, the New York Times added more information about people fleeing NYC just as the pandemic got underway here. Per their story, about 420,000 people fled between 1 March to 1 May 2020 with the population dropping by a staggering 40% in some of the wealthiest residential neighborhoods! Based on the Black Death pandemic of the 14th century, this isn't a surprise. It kind of reminds me of the first part of Matthew 16:25 -- "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it..." Figuratively they have. Now, despite fame in some cases, accomplishments, connections, wealth and respect, these people are destined to live out the remainder of their lives with their act of cowardice indelibly stained upon their souls and for that, the unforgiving eternal legacy of their lives from their moment of conception through their last breath here on Earth for as long as time persists, will forever be profound shame and infamy. It's so sad when they could have been heroes reaching out to help, support and sustain their communities during the darkest hours of this horrible pandemic.

Last, social distancing appears to be collapsing in my community. I observed several picnics at a local park, one with more than a dozen people wearing no face protection. Sadly, these actions will result in more cases and delay partial re-openings in my area. :( Consequently, U.S. COVID-19 death toll projections are already rising with 100,000 projected dead by 1 June and 110,000 by 6 June.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 358,099 cases (191,600 - NYC; 32,097 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 27,953* (+379) including 20,576 deaths in NYC and 1398 deaths in Westchester County.

*"New Yorker", NYMag.com/Intelligencer (7 PM EDT 16 May 2020)

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1437, 2. Belgium 777, 3. Spain 590, 4. Italy 525, 5. United Kingdom 508 [Source: Worldometers 8:00 PM EDT 16 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 33,246 / 1709 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 25,869

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 89,596

17 May 2020:
Considering it's Sunday, I thought it appropriate to recite scripture fitting for the moment. The main theme comes from sections of Lamentations 1 since as they were relevant to the fall of Jerusalem in 586 BC, they are strikingly relevant to New York City of 2020, viewed by many as the “capital of the world.” In the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic, NYC has seen eerily empty streets, and scarce few visitors from the outside. Her businesses are shuttered and shut and cultural venues silenced. NYC has also been abandoned by many of her wealthiest who at the start of the pandemic, fled in fear. She has experienced empty shelves and been embraced by a new “Great Depression” and the consequent reality that things of value during the pre-COVID-19 era matter little today with some trading material goods for scarce necessities. Last, in her greatest time of need, NYC has been abandoned by the federal government and denied essential funding and resources:

Lamentations 1:
[1] How deserted lies the city, once so full of people! How like a widow is she, who once was great among the nations!
[2] Bitterly she weeps… tears are on her cheeks… [T]here is no one to comfort her.
[4] All her gateways are desolate… her young women grieve, and she is in bitter anguish.
[6] All the splendor has departed… Her princes… in weakness they have fled…
[7] When her people fell… there was no one to help her.
[11] …her people groan as they search for bread; they barter their treasures for food to keep themselves alive.
[20] I am in torment within… inside, there is only death.
[22] My groans are many and my heart is faint.

Fortunately NYC and the world will not remain mired in this hellish pandemic forever since we are reminded in Lamentations 3:57-58: You came near when I called to You, and You said, “Do not fear!” You… took up my case; you redeemed my life! And yes, so as declared in Psalm 104:30 – “You send forth Your spirit… and renew the face of the Earth” we can be assured – “Mourning will be turned into joy!” [Jeremiah 31:13] as the COVID-19 pandemic is “swept away… like the morning mist” [Isaiah 44:22] such that “Times of refreshing may [yet] come [again].” [Acts 3:19]

Other news around the area: Social distancing and face protection measures appear to be breaking down at an accelerating rate in lower NY with some communities only having around 25% compliance, which doesn't bode well if re-opening is to take place in these areas in the near future. :( Although such behavior is attributed to shutdown and social distancing fatigue, it is still inexcusable and the resulting consequences won't be pretty. Last, the nursing home just blocks from where I live has now reported 44 COVID-19 deaths, a slowing rate but nonetheless still disheartening. There is also good news -- shelves of many items that had been scarce for weeks are now fully stocked! :) Let's hope there's no hoarding now!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 359,847 cases (192,593 - NYC; 32,224 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 28,325 (+372) including 20,720 deaths in NYC and 1412 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1456, 2. Belgium 781, 3. Spain 591, 4. Italy 528, 5. United Kingdom 511 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 17 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 33,618 / 1728 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,013

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 90,978

18 May 2020:
As two more regions of NYS move closer to re-opening, it's not surprising NYC and Westchester, with an accelerating break down in social distancing and preventative measures (e.g. wearing face masks and coverings) are moving in the opposite direction, having lost ground. Prior to today, NYC and Westchester met 4 out of 7 and 5 out of 7 conditions, respectively. Now they meet 3 out of 7 and 4 out 7 conditions, respectively and are further away from re-opening. :(

Also one person who works as a nurse at a NYC nursing home told my wife, "he is traumatized," having seen so many bodies they had to be stacked on top of each other during the March COVID-19 peak in NYC. Unfortunately, he is probably not alone and this trauma will persist for years in many, the same way it did after 9/11.

Despite this, hope will prevail as we all stand united in solidarity. We shall resist, we shall overcome and most importantly, we shall LIVE!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 361,266 cases (193,230 - NYC; 32,323 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 28,480 (+155) including 20,806 deaths in NYC and 1419 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1464, 2. Belgium 784, 3. Spain 593, 4. Italy 529, 5. United Kingdom 513 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 18 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 33,773 / 1736 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,099

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 91,981

19 May 2020:
A day after the Western region of NY met all criteria to begin a phased re-opening, the Capital region that includes Albany, has now met all criteria. This leaves only three regions shut down -- all in lower NY where COVID-19 has decimated the area. Hopes remain that these regions might be able to begin some sort of re-opening some time in June but for this to happen it's imperative people social distance and take required precautions such as covering their faces and washing hands with soap.

Also, NY now has doubled its test capacity such that supply now exceeds demand! :) To assist people in finding the nearest location, a new website was launched where people can enter their address and zip code to search for nearby locations.

Also a good friend has finally returned to work after his fourth test was negative. Even though he suffered considerably, his sister, who also tested positive, was fortunate to exhibit only mild symptoms.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 362,608 cases (193,821 - NYC; 32,402 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 28,648 (+168) including 20,887 deaths in NYC and 1424 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1473, 2. Belgium 786, 3. Spain 594, 4. Italy 532, 5. United Kingdom 521 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 19 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 33,941 / 1744 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,180

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 93,533

20 May 2020:
Even though things are looking up for most of NYS with the exception being lower NY (the NYC metro area), I have a lot to complain about today. First it's outrageous, Georgia issued false reports re: COVID-19 to make it appear cases/deaths were declining since the re-opening. Second, it's also outrageous Governor DeSantis of Florida fired his state's Health Department Manager after she refused to delete COVID-19 data. It's even worse there are people who seriously believe these states are doing the right thing under the absurd premise that COVID-19 cases and deaths are being overstated in some kind of perverse competition for funds. Are we supposed to allow the USA to become a "Potemkin" society where everyone pretends all is well when the exact opposite is true?

Also, it's becoming increasingly widerspread that hospitals around the country are discharging patients with active cases of COVID-19-related pneumoniato be cared for by visiting home health aids, to free up beds, exacerbating the death toll. Resistance to NY's prudent steps is also developing in parts of NYC. Some people now outright refuse to social distance and/or wear protective face coverings. I witnessed one such person receive a $1000 summons in the Bronx when he said the cop had "no authority to make him social distance and wear a mask!" In addition, some shuttered businesses in the Bronx are now displaying signs that read, "Freedom, not Shutdowns!" Finally, I even came across a barber shop, also in the Bronx, open for business they're supposed to be closed under the shut down that remains in effect in lower NY! :( No wonder the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business' model projects up to 290,000 deaths in the USA by the end of July and a consensus of models predict 113,000 US deaths by mid-June. :(

Furthermore, in yet another sign the pandemic is nowhere near over, a leaked Pentagon memo warns it will likely last until the Summer of 2021. With lack of common sense, I can't even begin to imagine how many more people will die -- many needlessly, I must add. :(

Also, I learned early this morning that 61 colleagues from various locations had now died from COVID-19 through 17 May 2020. :(

And while I'm at it, I cannot remain silent about the COVID-19 horrors in Brazil. It's so, so sad what the Brazilian people have to go through as new cases and deaths are exploding and their President does nothing because of his cavalier attitude -- "So what! What do you want me to do!" :( Guess he isn't known as "Trump of the Tropics" for nothing! Worse yet, there are people here in the USA that advocate for the same sick approach, exhorting the virus be given unfettered ability to spread. :(

At the same time, a study came out stating COVID-19 can travel 18 feet in just five seconds in a mild 2.5 MPH breeze. :(

To end on a positive note, the MTA in NYC is now using in addition to disinfectants, ultraviolet (UV) light to kill coronavirus on subways and buses. :)

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 364,249 cases (194,550 - NYC; 32,517 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 28,758 (+110) including 20,934 deaths in NYC and 1430 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1478, 2. Belgium 790, 3. Spain 596, 4. Italy 535, 5. United Kingdom 526 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 20 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 34,051 / 1750 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,227

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 94,936

21 May 2020:
In preparations for re-opening to begin sometime in June if things go well in NYC, the MTA is formulating plans based on action taken during the 1918 Influenza pandemic, in which businesses would be asked to stagger their hours to avoid overcrowding on buses, trains, and subways.

Also, U.S. President Trump visited Ford Motor Company in Michigan today. It was disappointing to see out of everyone, he alone didn't wear a face mask even though at one point, Ford was producing face masks and ventilators instead of automobiles. :( Los Angeles, CA Mayor Eric Garcetti summed up Trump's wimpy example perfectly stating, "Real men wear face masks."

Worse yet, President Trump also announced there would be no shutdowns if a second wave of COVID-19 infections strike the USA. Several states that have re-opened are now experiencing a surge in new COVID-19 cases. With that said, perhaps when President Trump in haste typed "Covfefe" in a tweet on 31 May 2017 instead of "coverage" -- he was prophetic without any of us, including himself, knowing it since it kind of resembles "Covid!". Per Wikipedia, this "tweet garnered intense attention... quickly becoming a viral phenomenon." en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Covfefe
Covid-19 to use Wikipedia's words, is also "a viral phenomenon."

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 366,298 cases (195,675 - NYC; 32,673 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 28,872 (+114) including 21,003 deaths in NYC and 1438 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1484, 2. Belgium 793, 3. Spain 598, 4. Italy 537, 5. United Kingdom 531 [Source: Worldometers 8:15 PM EDT 21 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 34,165 / 1756 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,296

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 96,354

22 May 2020:
As Memorial Day approaches, in which all flags nationwide will be flown at half-mast to honor COVID-19 victims who had succumbed to the deadly virus (a practice already carried out in NY), so many places are re-opening, some recklessly in spite of rising cases and/or deaths. In addition, throngs threaten to overrun coastal beaches including here in NY, and groups of people from the Bronx and NYC have made plans to picnic in suburban parks. You can bet many won't social distance and even more will probably not wear a face mask or covering. :( Because of this, a COVID-19 resurgence might be unleashed in states making progress and impose additional pain on the NY metro area that has already been hit so hard. :(

In another unsettling trend, it was reported that about 40% of NYC businesses failed to make their monthly rent payment; another 20% of NYC metro area tenants also failed to make their monthly rent payments. Some landlords are now trying to determine how they're going to pay their monthly costs raising concerns that if this trend continues, which it very well may considering a number of businesses intend to permanently maintain off-site work -- the blight of the mid 1970s, when the City teetered on the brink of bankruptcy, might return to NYC if landlords simply give up and abandon their property. The last time this occurred, it took 20 years for NYC to recover and during those darkest years, buildings stood as graffiti-infested empty shells, massive flight to the suburbs occurred and crime and drug use soared and there were 2245 murders in 1990 vs. the approximate 300 today. The COVID-19 pandemic under no circumstances must be permitted to do what the 1918 pandemic and 9/11 failed to do -- to bring NYC down for potentially decades.

A final concern is the continued rapid relocation of many of NYC's wealthiest to new venues, especially in Connecticut and even parts of Westchester. One Westchester homeowner reported selling his house this week at $67,000 above asking price to a NYC resident desperate to relocate ASAP. :( NYC cannot afford to see its tax base shrink especially with so many pandemic-related costs.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 367,936 cases (196,484 - NYC; 32,767 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,009 (+124) including 21,086 deaths in NYC and 1444 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1491, 2. Belgium 795, 3. Spain 612, 4. Italy 539, 5. United Kingdom 536 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 22 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 34,302 / 1763 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,379

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 97,640

23 May 2020:
The on-and-off rain and thunderstorms spared New Yorkers from themselves for one day at least as parks and public areas remained mostly desolate during the first day of the Memorial Day weekend. :)

Also, despite President Trump demanding states allow places of worship to re-open with no concrete steps in place to protect members from COVID-19, even threatening to "override" state governors, authority he does not have, churches that contested shutdown measures lost lawsuits in Michigan and California. This is a welcome relief since health and safety must remain paramount and places worship rank second behind nursing homes re: COVID-19 spread and fatalities. Furthermore, physical places of worship are not prerequisite for the continuity of one's intimate relationship with their loving Creator.

Just considering that lawsuits were filed, is a sad testament against some religious leaders who are unwilling to share in the sacrifices made by their members, some of whom even willing to endanger the lives of their members for personal ideology and/or gain. :(

Next, while the Trump administration tries to secure as many doses of potential vaccines for Americans with little re: for the well being of the rest of humanity around the world, others, equally out of depraved selfishness condemn the USA's decision to donate ventilators to Russia. Why should it matter? If we have spare capacity, I wouldn't object even if we shared critical medical equipment and supplies with enemy states since each and every human life is precious and worth saving.

In some good news, Westchester County has improved, meeting 6 out of 7 conditions. Contact tracers are expected to be in place by Tuesday permitting the commencement of partial re-opening. I can only hope as business begin to re-open, employees and employers alike act responsibly -- practice social distancing, wash their hands with soap and wear protective face coverings.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 369,656 cases (197,266 - NYC; 32,881 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,112 (+103) including 21,138 deaths in NYC and 1451 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1496, 2. Belgium 797, 3. Spain 613, 4. Italy 541, 5. United Kingdom 541 [Source: Worldometers 7:30 PM EDT 23 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 34,404 / 1768 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,431

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 98,683

24 May 2020:
Local police were out in force patrolling parks and nearby beaches limited access to residents only. Several dozen people from the Bronx and elsewhere and NYC as well as two people from New Hampshire were denied access to Playland Beach that re-opened today.

Per The New York Times cover page and follow-up story that says it all -- the nearly 100,000 COVID-19 deaths are: "An incalculable loss; They were not simply names on a list. They were us." Yes, the COVID-19 death toll is staggering and these deaths are real! Worse yet, based on the 4.7 deaths per 1000 figure presented for NYC during the 1918 Influenza pandemic translating into 26,320 deaths, COVID-19 has now cost the City more lives when the CDC's figure of 5,293 is included, resulting in a total of 26,509 deaths.

The local nursing home in my community now reports 47 COVID-19 deaths. :( Yet, it appears the U.S. national number has been stripped of credibility as states like Texas, Georgia, and Florida, that were reporting high double-digit and even triple digit figures on Friday presented ridiculous numbers of 8, 5, and 4, respectively today! Realistically, the U.S. COVID-19 death toll has now surpassed 100,000. :( On this Memorial Day eve, let us remember each and every COVID-19 victim, many of them heroes who selflessly gave up their lives, some without the necessary PPE, to save others as well as the brave men and women of the armed forces, who also selflessly died so we can live in freedom.

Tragically, there are still deniers who completely overlook the worst horror of this pandemic that was also perfectly captured in the New York Times: "This highly contagious virus has forced us to suppress our nature as social creatures, for fear that we might infect or be infected. Among the many indignities, it has denied us the grace of being present for a loved one's last moments. Age-old customs that lend meaning to existence have been upended, including sacred rituals of how we mourn... Even in the horrible times of wars and hurricanes and terrorist attacks [9/11] that seemed to crumble the ground beneath our feet, we at least had time-tested ways of grieving..." Today every obituary seems "to close with: 'Due to health concerns... there will be no funeral services at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a time to be announced.'"

Yes, when one considers the staggering loss of life, immense break down of social norms (e.g. grieving, loss of church services, restricted intimacy), the shut downs, lock downs and social distancing measures required by all, the immense economic shock that has robbed individuals and families of self-sufficiency and even necessary staples such as food and shelter, and destroyed many dreams... the list can go on but for brevity, I end it here... the sacrifice made by these generations in 2020 are as profound and great as those made by each and every past generation during their moments of crisis and calamity. It is because of these sacrifices, we must stick together to ensure hope prevails and a better world lies ahead, even if it is years down the road.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 371,193 cases (198,123 - NYC; 32,968 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,231 (+119) including 21,216 deaths in NYC and 1462 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1503, 2. Belgium 801, 3. Spain 615, 4. Italy 542, 5. United Kingdom 542 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 24 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 34,524 / 1774 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,509

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 99,300*
*Likely over 100,000 due to lack of reliable reporting from several states such as Texas, Georgia, and Florida where COVID-19 statistics are being greatly under-reported.

25 May 2020:
On this Memorial Day, as we remember all our loved ones who died as well as the many coronavirus victims, my aunt included, and countless brave men and women of the armed forces who died in so many wars past and present, it is important to retain perspective what this day is about. It is not about recklessly rushing to beaches, it is not about sending malicious tweets, it is not about sowing discord and political division and it is not about engaging in psychopathic activities that seek to under-report and erase the widespread and steep COVID-19 tragedy that has unsparingly spread intense pain and profound loss in NY and all around the world.

While certain countries -- Australia, Iceland, New Zealand, Norway, and Taiwan -- and the territory of Hong Kong, whose freedom is ominously threatened -- have been success stories, it's extremely disheartening to see other nations, including the USA, where people have paid such a steep price in lives already, on the brink of abandoning practices to stop the spread. Brazil, is another story altogether with its senseless absence of measures whatsoever. :( How tragic and selfish it is that so many refuse to live by New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's words -- "Break the chain and... save lives" as her country has so successfully done.

To put it simply, with regard to NY: "No brain, no mask!" Now with the reckless acts of the last few days fueled by an ill-conceived rush to re-open, discard face masks and social distancing practices regardless of rising cases and deaths in some areas, per The New York Times (24 May 2020 edition) -- "[A]ll we can do is hold our collective breath" and hope and pray there is no second wave, and if there is, it is not a tsunami that erases all the hard fought gains we've made over the last month-and-a-half at such a steep cost. Tragically, if this does happen, the cost in precious lives and economic toll may be even worse. :( Just today, NY finally had a COVID-19 death toll below a hundred. We don't want to go back to the triple digit days again! Rather, we want to get to zero as does every other affected place.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 372,494 cases (198,123 - NYC; 33,049 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,310 (+79) including 21,216 deaths in NYC and 1462 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1507, 2. Belgium 804, 3. Spain 574**, 4. Italy 544, 5. United Kingdom 544 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 25 May 2020]
** Due to reduction from 28,752 deaths to 26,837; Awaiting an explanation

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 34,603 / 1778 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,552 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +232

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 99,805*
*Definitively over 100,000 due to lack of reliable reporting from several states such as Texas, Georgia, and Florida where COVID-19 statistics continue to be under-reported.

26 May 2020:

The official U.S. COVID-19 death toll rose above 100,000 despite the best efforts to conceal the virus' mortality data by GA, FL. and TX, to name just three states involved in deliberate undercounts. In addition, the reduction in Spain's deaths is likely due to the same psychopathic behavior displayed by the above states' governors since it's unrealistic and improbable that one region, Catalonia, attributed the 59% reduction in their death toll to duplication and reporting errors. As an fyi, The New York Times estimated Spain's death toll as of 19 May 2020 should have been adjusted up by 6,400 based on excess mortality figures and thus if anything, is now under reported by about 8300. As NBC News declared in reference to U.S. concealment of mortality data in the above three mentioned states and Arizona -- "the public... academics... scholars," scientists have a right to "complete and accurate information" free of politics. Also, per the Financial Times (27 April 2020), the global COVID-19 death toll may be understated by 60%. Last, no politician or government has the right to "disappear" COVID-19 victims from official counts.

On a positive note, Westchester County began phase I re-opening today. Long Island could begin the same process tomorrow. NYC still must wait as their hospitalizations remain above the 30% threshold.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 373,622 cases (199,301 - NYC; 33,107 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,451 (+141) including 21,314 deaths in NYC and 1469 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1514, 2. Belgium 806, 3. Spain 580, 4. United Kingdom 546, 5. Italy 545 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 26 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 34,744 / 1786 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,607 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +287

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 100,572*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states

27 May 2020:
While things continue to improve in NY, we still have a ways to go before the pandemic is over. An example of this sobering reality: All had been quiet at the work front for the last several weeks with no new cases until today when I learned a co-worker's wife has come down with COVID-19. Will this begin a new cycle of sickness? Time will tell.

Today North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper repeated what is already known by rational people -- "Face masks signify strength" and one's "concern for others." Those who resist practical measures and even distort scripture (Luke 12:1-3 -- "You can't hide behind a religious mask forever; sooner or later the mask will slip and your true face will be known;" they claim means people shouldn't wear such protection when in fact this passage is a condemnation of hypocrisy) to support their irrational cause don't care about themselves or others. Let's hope reason prevails and support for preventative, proactive health measures is revitalized to avoid a return to the dark days of mass sickness and death.

Historical Comparison of Worst Adversity to Impact NYC to put today's pandemic in perspective:
1. COVID-19 Pandemic, 2020 -- 26,655 / 21,362* deaths and counting
2. Influenza Pandemic, 1918 -- 26,320 / 20,403* deaths
3. Cholera Outbreak, 1849 -- 5,071 deaths
4. Cholera Outbreak, 1832 -- 3,513 deaths
5. September 11th Attacks, 2001 -- 2,753 deaths
6. Cholera Outbreak, 1854 -- 2,509 deaths
7. Yellow Fever Outbreak, 1798 -- 2,086

*Figure excludes addition for excess mortality figures during respective pandemics

Having waited until the end of the day, it's now clear Spanish government leaders are now emboldened after having gotten away from "disappearing" nearly 2,000 victims from their cumulative COVID-19 death toll. Now they are openly concealing daily COVID-19 deaths since there is no way a daily death toll of 280 from 26 May 2020 can suddenly drop to 1 (yes one!) a day later on 27 May 2020! Also the lag in the daily death toll that eventually leads to steep rises has failed to materialize in Russia indicating they are also deliberately concealing the death count for political purposes. Based on reports from politicians and medical staff, it is likely the Russian death toll is at least three times higher than reported. :( All the COVID-19 deceased victims and their families and friends deserve better!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 374,672 cases (199,968 - NYC; 33,186 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,553 (+102) including 21,362 deaths in NYC and 1476 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1518, 2. Belgium 808, 3. Spain 580, 4. United Kingdom 552, 5. Italy 547 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 27 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 34,846 / 1791 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,655 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +335

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 102,107*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states

28 May 2020:
The fraud in Madrid continues as today's daily COVID-19 death toll was again reported as one! Based on statistical patterns prior to data concealment, Spain's estimated COVID-19 death toll over the last 48 hours is at least 530. Consequently since the purging of data on 25 May 2020, Spain's COVID-19 death toll is understated by approximately 8830. Madrid's mockery of COVID-19 data is a denial of reality, a denial of lives, and an affront to everything that makes us human! It's amazing Brussels (the EU) has tolerated Madrid's fraud that reeks of the worst of dystopian impulses. Those who engage in this sickening behavior and those who appease it out of apathy, tolerance, acceptance and support are nothing short of cruel and inhuman! Until corrective action is taken, Spain’s numbers lack reliability and won’t be included in my statistics and will be listed as "---."

Today, Fox News host Brian Kilmeade became the latest person to throw out a fictitious 0.3% COVID-19 mortality rate in the USA with absolutely no supporting facts. Just yesterday the CDC reported a 5.9% U.S. mortality rate based on confirmed positive cases. Considering widespread anecdotal evidence, typical influenza mortality rates, undetected persons who had COVID-19 based on antibody tests and ongoing asymptomatic cases, most epidemiologists presently estimate a figure around 1% though cautioning in reality, no one knows for sure yet.

Today, NYC's total COVID-19 cases climbed above 200,000. There are many reasons for this, some listed by Bloomberg News:
1. Undetected community spread of COVID-19 began in late January and continued unchecked until 1 March 2020 when the first person tested positive. This was made possible because persons returning from China and Asian countries were the focus of testing instead of incoming people from Europe, notably Italy that began to experience rapid spread.
2. NYC is a "global destination." Travel from European countries continued unabated until 13 March 2020 while travel from China was restricted on 31 January 2020.
3. Population density, shared spaces (e.g. bars, restaurants, gyms, theaters), and close human interaction.
4. Heavy reliance on mass transit especially buses and the subway system.
5. Wearing of face masks and coverings wasn't implemented until 3 April 2020.

On an economic note, U.S. 1st Quarter GDP was revised downward from a 4.8% contraction to a 5.0% contraction despite strong economic growth in January and February 2020. At the same time, joblessness rose above 40 million as the USA sinks into a Great Depression. The stock market, though, remains above its COVID-19 lows, the only economic silver lining.

There is positive news too. The number of new hospitalizations is slowly dropping and the pandemic is now more manageable from a medical standpoint due to excess resources. Optimism is also growing that NYC can begin its first phase of re-opening some time in mid-June at the latest.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 376,309 cases (201,051 - NYC; 33,293 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,653 (+100) including 21,415 deaths in NYC and 1481 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1524, 2. Belgium 810, 3. Spain ---, 4. United Kingdom 558, 5. Italy 548 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 28 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 34,946 / 1796 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,708 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +388

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 103,330*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states

29 May 2020:

Esther wrote in in the comment thread to my photo composition "COVID-19 Still Life: An Incalculable Loss" -- "We have lost more Americans to this virus in three months than to the Korean and Vietnamese wars combined, yet so many Americans fail to take this seriously. I am floored by the images of pool parties and no masks" referring to the numerous packed beaches and crowded pool party in the Ozarks, MO that occurred during the Memorial Day weekend.

To me this outrageous and shocking behavior was nothing short of depraved debauchery! These self-centered people clearly demonstrated they have no regard for themselves nor the well-being of others! :( In the simplest terms, the consequence of their acts may be murder-suicide!

With that said, there were several doses of good news in NY. Five regions began Phase II re-openings, NY Governor Cuomo announced NYC will likely begin Phase I re-openings on 8 June 2020, and he signed an executive order protecting businesses owners from frivolous discrimination lawsuits when they deny entry to persons not wearing face masks/coverings to ensure maximum protection for their employees and customers.

Last, I end with a fitting quote from Governor Cuomo: "Life is not about going back. Nobody goes back. We go forward. And it's going to be different. This is about reopening to a new normal — a safer normal. People will be wearing masks and people will be socially distanced — it's a new way of interacting, which is what we have to do. Wear a mask, get tested and socially distance."

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 377,714 cases (201,999 - NYC; 33,349 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,751 (+98) including 21,477 deaths in NYC and 1484 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1529, 2. Belgium 814, 3. Spain ---, 4. United Kingdom 562, 5. Italy 550 [Source: Worldometers 8:00 PM EDT 29 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,044 / 1801 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,770 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +450

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 104,539*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states

30 May 2020:
On a day when NY celebrated its second consecutive day with a daily death count below 100, the understatement of COVID-19 deaths in the USA became current topic yet again. Today the Washington Post reported based on a Yale University study, the USA experienced 101,600 excess deaths between 1 March and 9 May 2020 resulting in an undercount of about 26,000 and the grim reality, the USA surpassed the 100,000 mark on 9 May 2020. When WHO and Worldometer totals of 69,889 and 80,037, respectively are averaged out, the undercount is approximately 26,637. When Worldometer figures are used, the undercount is 21,563.

In a troubling development, WHO released a misleading recommendation stating, "People should only wear face masks when caring for COVID-19 patient(s)." Face masks and coverings have significantly slowed the spread in NY and elsewhere and now is not the time to put them away unless one wants a tsunami of new cases. Regardless of their statement,
keep wearing those face masks to stop the spread and protect others!

At the same time, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage many areas all across the world, the USA is experiencing yet another episode of racial violence -- all because of the senseless of murder of a helpless, handcuffed African-American, George Floyd (my deepest condolences are extended to his family and friends) who should have been treated as "innocent until proven guilty" as America's constitution is supposed to guarantee. These incidents must stop -- otherwise who can blame people for venting their frustrations and worse yet, expect no social or economic impact. Justice must be blind and be equal for all!

Hopefully the tens of thousands of people, the vast majority wearing face masks and coverings, that peacefully and courageously made their voices heard across America, including in NYC, will not become COVID-19 victims for demanding fairness in our justice system and an end to racial prejudice, especially since in many cases, it was impossible for them to social distance.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 378,951 cases (202,751 - NYC; 33,429 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,829 (+78) including 21,477 deaths in NYC and 1484 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1533, 2. Belgium 816, 3. Spain ---, 4. United Kingdom 566, 5. Italy 551 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 30 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,122 / 1805 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,805 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +485

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 105,557*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 127,120

31 May 2020:
COVID-19 deaths were below 100 for a third day in a row in NY. Per NY Governor Cuomo, "In this absurd reality we live in is actually very, very good news."

In addition, Italian doctors have noted that newer strains of COVID-19 appear to have lost their potency and are less lethal. This is also good news and makes sense since from a virus' standpoint it makes little sense to infect a host if it will kill the host. At the same time caution is still needed since we don't know if this is the case elsewhere in the world.

As today is Pentecost Sunday, I take a moment to reflect on scripture: When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven… They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All… were filled with the Holy Spirit.” [Acts 2:1-4] Accordingly, based on this scriptural passage, and the language in Hebrews 12:29 and Daniel 12:10, respectively, my prayer is – May these tongues of fire "purify" the Earth and “purge” it of COVID-19.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 379,902 cases (203,303 - NYC; 33,481 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,918 (+89) including 21,569 deaths in NYC and 1499 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1538, 2. Belgium 817, 3. Spain ---, 4. United Kingdom 567, 5. Italy 553 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 31 May 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,211 / 1810 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,862 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +542

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 106,195*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 127,758

1 June 2020:
New York had its best day since the COVID-19 pandemic officially hit on 1 March 2020 with only 2% of all COVID-19 tests coming back positive. In addition, the three day average of hospitalizations is the lowest in 93 days.

While NY continues to focus on re-opening with two regions ready to enter Phase II and NYC still on target for Phase I re-opening on 8 June 2020, concern remains with re: to the impact the protests may have on the exceptional progress since although most protesters appear to have worn face protection, they couldn't and didn't social distance in many instances. Nevertheless, I'm optimistic about the effectiveness of face masks and coverings and remain hopeful there won't be much of an adverse impact. To me, people who refuse to take preventative measures and who have crowded beaches and parks are the greater threat.

At the same time, while all New Yorkers are outraged by the senseless murder of George Floyd in Minnesota, the threat of COVID-19 remains the number one concern such that many will not become complacent and continue to take this deadly virus seriously, thus ensuring the exceptional progress that brought NY back from "worst in the world" status will continue and hopefully bring about quick economic revival that will convince many who are thinking about moving out of NYC to reconsider. NYC doesn't need a repeat of the urban flight during the 1970s that brought the City to the brink of bankruptcy and caused to much socio-economic pain.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 380,825 cases (203,764 - NYC; 33,552 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 29,988 (+70) including 21,607 deaths in NYC and 1501 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1542, 2. Belgium 819, 3. Spain ---, 4. United Kingdom 575, 5. Italy 554 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 1 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,281 / 1813 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,900 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +580

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 106,923*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 128,486

2 June 2020:
As NYC moves closer to Phase I re-opening, the City began universal COVID-19 testing so each and every person requesting such a test can finally now receive it. This is a critical and tremendously positive development since only knowledge based on the potency of spread through asymptomatic cases can stop the spread.

Last, even though such universal testing is a month-and-a-half late, as with some things, better late than never!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 381,911 cases (204,377 - NYC; 33,633 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,078 (+90) including 21,649 deaths in NYC and 1505 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1546, 2. Belgium 820, 3. Spain ---, 4. United Kingdom 580, 5. Italy 555 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 2 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,371 / 1818 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,942 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +622

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 108,057*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 129,620

3 June 2020:
NY had another good day as the COVID-19 situation continues to improve. It was also reassuring to see just about everyone, if not everyone, based on TV images of tonight's protests in Columbus Circle, was wearing a face mask or covering giving reason for hope that a spike some 14 days from now may not materialize. :)

Outdoor dining is also expected to resume in Westchester some time next week while NYC is just five days from phase I re-opening.

The only blemish -- the local nursing home in my community reported one COVID-19 death bringing its reported total to 48. :(

Also, since Madrid's COVID-19 numbers are a complete joke, it's estimated that country's COVID-19 death toll is about 44,000 based on excess deaths in 2020, with most occurring around Madrid (the hardest COVID-19 hit area) and a 155% spike compared to 2019 from 30 March-5 April, 2020. With these numbers, for one day, I'll report Spain's stats, which amount to 941 Deaths / 1 Million Population.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 382,837 cases (204,872 - NYC; 33,691 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,164 (+86) including 21,688 deaths in NYC and 1510 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1551, 2. Spain 941, 3. Belgium 822, 4. United Kingdom 585, 5. Italy 556 [Sources: Worldometers 8:00 PM EDT 3 June 2020 and re: Spain: fox28spokane.com/the-latest-spanish-deaths-up-44000-or-24-in-2020-so-far]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,457 / 1822 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 26,981 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +661

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 109,140*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 130,703

4 June 2020:

As the weekend approaches, the possibility exists the consequences of the Memorial
Day weekend debauchery are beginning to emerge. NYS has a slight uptick in cases and experienced triple-digit deaths for the first time since 28 May 2020. In addition, NYS had its highest reported number of daily COVID-19 deaths since 26 May 2020. :(

Also, it's disturbing to hear how some business owners are decrying the fact no bans have been placed on peoples' right to protest with government leaders (President Trump not included) and the CDC instead calling for social distancing when possible and the use of face masks and coverings. As they seem so adamant that the protests be prohibited in the same way shut downs are enforced, I can't help but ask, "Are some of these business owners closet racists?" If not, they are insensitive to say the least! The protests take real courage in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore there are times when people are called to take great risks in the name of freedom, social justice and human rights; allowing people to exercise their inherent right to protest is the correct approach. Ideals such as freedom, social justice and human rights are so much greater than one wanting to make a few dollars at risk of spreading a virus that has already proven so deadly. They'll get their chance when conditions are safe. With continued improvement in places like NY, the re-openings are becoming more inclusive and widespread, so instead of complaining as NYC even dares contemplate about phase II re-openings in early July, a little patience is in order. It's almost over barring no setbacks. Of course with lessons learned, it is only reasonable to expect a new normal in the post-COVID-19 era that may include greater social distancing in public places, protective barriers, added sidewalk space and crowd density reductions.

Last, the claim made by the MPD officers’ attorney that George Floyd died of a heart attack caused by Coronavirus is ridiculous. Coronavirus did not kill him. The four MPD officers did.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 383,899 cases (205,406 - NYC; 33,767 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,281 (+117) including 21,752 deaths in NYC and 1514 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1557, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 824, 4. United Kingdom 588, 5. Italy 557 [Sources: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 4 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,574 / 1828 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,045 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +725

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 110,173*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 131,736

5 June 2020:
As the weekend approaches, concerns exist new daily COVID-19 cases in NY, especially the NYC metro area, may begin to increase and will be further exacerbated when the Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests begin to play a role starting next weekend based on an average 14 day incubation period.

New COVID-19 hospitalizations in NYC doubled over yesterday's total; daily NYS COVID-19 deaths, though declined to back under 100 but still uncomfortably high.

Last, it appears a retroactive addition of +11,336 COVID-19 cases was made on Worldometers bringing the total to 396,699. To verify these new numbers, the retroactive adjustment isn't included in my NYS, NYC, and Westchester County figures since the official numbers for NYS and NYC based on their respective numbers are already final for the day. If this adjustment is correct, it will appear in tomorrow's NYS, NYC and Westchester County figures on NYS and NYC's respective websites.

Also NY Governor Cuomo reiterated all BLM protesters who request a COVID-19 test will be given it without delay. This is especially important when the rate of increase in states like California, Arizona, and Florida is picking up.

Also it was reported by the Washington Post that significant re-classification errors were made over the last two months by the Department of Labor due to massive job losses (many temporary) due to COVID-19. Had these errors not been made, April's unemployment rate would have been 19.7% (vs. the 14.7% figure given) and May's figure would have been 16.3% instead of 13.3%.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 385,363 cases (205,940 - NYC; 33,854 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,372 (+91) including 21,782 deaths in NYC and 1519 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1561, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 826, 4. United Kingdom 593, 5. Italy 559 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 5 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,665 / 1833 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,075 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +755

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 111,390*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 132,953

6 June 2020:
The number of new hospitalizations and deaths in New York reached their lowest point since the official start of the COVID-19 pandemic in the State with the latter rising by a record low of 29 vs. the 799 figure on 9 April 2020. Total hospitalizations now stand at 2603 vs. the peak figure of 18,825. Consequently NY Governor Cuomo announced plans to accelerate the re-opening phase that will include the resumption of worship services at 25% capacity and temperature checks for entering office buildings, declaring, "We did not just flatten the curve - we bent the curve."

At the same time, the protests for social justice that have been transformed from a movement of rage to one of hope continued including in several areas of NYC. Good news re: the risk of COVID-19 also exists pertaining to them with one epidemiologist saying the risk of spreading Coronavirus is 11 times less outdoors -- add the use of face protection, an it's even less! The biggest concern exists for those who have been detained and are being held in crowded quarters indoors. Perhaps state Governors can step in and order accelerated releases especially for those I and most view as unlawful detentions for peaceful curfew violations.

In addition, I'll continue to refrain from using the 5 June 2020 Worldometers' retroactive NYS cases adjustment since 11,336 figure isn't included in NYC.gov and NYS.gov figures.

Last, even though there is growing joy in NY and with such optimism, one might want to declare victory, such a declaration would be presumptuous since places around the world including parts of the USA, continue to be decimated. Sadly, CNN stated, Coronavirus is "winning" in Latin America. :( This is especially heartbreaking when one views Brazil where the country's president simply doesn't care and is still making no effort to slow the spread. :( In sharp contrast Uruguay with only 11 new cases and zero new deaths despite bordering Brazil, because of Montevideo's effective measures and Argentina, a large country with under 1,000 new cases and 16 new deaths deserve credit for bucking the trend.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 386,474 cases (206,511 - NYC; 33,924 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,401 (+29) including 21,815 deaths in NYC and 1523 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1563, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 827, 4. United Kingdom 596, 5. Italy 560 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 6 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,694 / 1834 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,108 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +788

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 112,096*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 133,659

7 June 2020:
I went to Green-Wood Union Cemetery in Brooklyn very early this morning (6:30 AM-8:15 AM) to photograph the fence that features some one hundred notes, cards, and posters giving tribute to COVID-19 victims. Although most were in NY, one card featured a couple from Madrid who were related to a New Yorker and another featured a NYC cat (yes, just under a dozen cats in the NYC metro area contracted COVID-19) that had succumbed to the virus.

Also, as news from the COVID-19 front remains good in NY compared to the darkest days and weeks, NYC landmarks were lit in blue and gold to honor the efforts and sacrifices of many that made it possible to flatten the curve through staying home, social distancing, and wearing face protection.

Last, an interesting study indicates blood type may play a role in determining the severity of COVID-19: People with Type A blood have a 50% greater risk of needing Oxygen treatment and/or a ventilator if they contract the virus. People with Type O blood have the lowest risk of developing a severe case. bgr.com/2020/06/07/coronavirus-symptoms-severe-covid-19-complications-type-a-blood

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 387,492 cases (206,699 - NYC; 33,954 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,442 (+41) including 21,844 deaths in NYC and 1523 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1563, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 828, 4. United Kingdom 597, 5. Italy 561 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 7 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,735 / 1837 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,137 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +817

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 112,469*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 134,032

8 June 2020:
New York City's shut down finally came to an end after 78 days of waiting as Phase I re-opening began. :) Yet during this period, the curve was flattened and in Governor Cuomo's words -- "crushed." Undoubtedly thousands of lives were saved in NYC alone because of the shut down.

Two studies reported by the Washington Post corroborate this. According to a study by the University of California at Berkeley, shut down orders prevented about 60 million COVID-19 cases in the USA. In addition, according to another study, this one by Imperial College London, shut down orders in Europe reduced COVID-19 infection rates by as much as 82% and saved approximately 3.1 million lives. When data from the University of California at Berkeley study is used with the current mortality rate based on some 2 million confirmed cases, it's likely shut down orders saved up to 3.3 million lives in the USA. Therefore, the benefits of the shut downs greatly outweighed the costs.

At the same time, on a sad note, the local nursing home a mere two blocks from where I live, reported two more COVID-19 deaths bringing their cumulative toll up to 50. :(

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 388,556 cases (207,353 - NYC; 34,000 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,516 (+74) including 21,877 deaths in NYC and 1526 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1569, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 829, 4. United Kingdom 598, 5. Italy 562 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 8 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,809 / 1840 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,170 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +850

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 113,055*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 134,618

9 June 2020:
As about 400,000 people returned to work with the Phase I re-opening in NYC, caution is required for several reasons:
1. Several communities in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Queens remain "hot spots" experiencing infection rates significantly above the City average (between 38% to 51% vs. the 19.9% average for NYC as a whole).
2. Regions in the USA are experiencing a steady increase in the COVID-19 infection rate prompting VOX to state, "Here in the United States, there are already worrying signs that the pandemic is not only not abating but starting to pick up in some places." [1]
3. COVID-19 infections are being under-reported in more than half the states (26) according to CNN giving a false sense of security.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 389,324 cases (207,693 - NYC; 34,035 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,603 (+87) including 21,918 deaths in NYC and 1527 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1573, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 830, 4. United Kingdom 602, 5. Italy 563 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 9 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,896 / 1845 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,211 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +891

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 114,148*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 135,761
______________
[1] Dylan Scott. These 7 countries have the most worrying Covid-19 outbreaks. VOX. 8 June 2020. www.vox.com/2020/6/8/21284315/coronavirus-cases-update-us-india-brazil-south-africa

10 June 2020: Don and I participated in a George Floyd/BLM/Civil Rights demonstration in our local community this evening. Even though there is heightened risk because of COVID-19, it is one worth taking for the advancement of human rights. It is important these demonstrations continue until real progress is made and people from all races and backgrounds participate to heal the division and make it clear, the current way that enslaved, oppressed and murdered African-Americans at times through police brutality is not acceptable and cannot continue. The country must be for ALL people. At the same time, while this peaceful demonstration was attended by about 1,000 people -- 95% wore face masks and social distanced -- making it a lot safer than some of the other demonstrations from an epidemiological standpoint.

At the same time, the Trump Administration no longer discusses COVID-19 and acts like the pandemic is over in the USA. This is a reckless, deadly play that will lead to significant losses of life. Already 21 states are experiencing COVID-19 spikes, Arizona is constructing field hospitals and Harvard predicted a U.S. death toll of 200,000 by the end of August. :(

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 389,997 cases (208,118 - NYC; 34,076 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,680 (+77) including 21,960 deaths in NYC and 1530 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1577, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 831, 4. United Kingdom 606, 5. Italy 564 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 10 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 35,973 / 1849 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,253 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +933

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 115,129*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 136,692

11 June 2020:
Dark clouds are on the horizon as COVID-19 infections are making a resurgence in the United States with Dallas County (Texas) reporting a record number of hospitalizations over the last 24 hours and Houston County considering re-imposing stay at home orders and re-opening a COVID-19 field hospital, Arizona's case load doubling over the last two weeks, and California and Florida reporting significant increases. The Dow Jones Industrial average plunged 1862 points due to concerns of a COVID-19 resurgence in areas where it had been brought under control and the fact, "the pandemic is far from subsiding" per NBC News. Yes, as I've mentioned before, unlike people who can act irrational such as COVID-19 deniers, markets are rational and will not pretend a way this very real and deadly pandemic. As New York continues to re-open, one can only wonder if the necessary courage and resolve exists to re-impose prompt shutdowns if a resurgence begins. Already, NYS has experienced an uptick in cases over the last three days. :(

Also, a joint study by Cambridge and Greenwich Universities (UK) further confirmed the effectiveness of face masks and covering concluding "100% face mask use would crush COVID-19 second and third waves." Yet it's amazing that some people still won't take this simple, effective step to protect themselves, their families and others!

Last, as COVID-19 remains out of control in the USA as a whole, it would be wise to contemplate the words of Harris County (Texas) Judge Lina Hidalgo when he warned, "We may be approaching the precipice of disaster." And NY, despite the hell it went through, will not go unscathed unless politicians and residents have the will power to RESIST any second wave before it gains a foothold. :(

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 390,685 cases (208,517 - NYC; 34,106 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,741 (+61) including 21,993 deaths in NYC and 1531 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1580, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 832, 4. United Kingdom 608, 5. Italy 565 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 11 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,034 / 1852 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,286 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +966

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 116,030*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 137,593

12 June 2020:
Today it was Florida's turn to record a record rise in COVID-19 cases and the pandemic threatens to get out of hand in the USA because of irresponsible leadership and the ideology of the selfish few who refuse to social distance and wear face coverings. Sadly, if this happens, which it appears is already underway and the necessary resolve isn't in place to take prompt measures, NY will be inundated by this COVID-19 tsunami and the results will be devastating. Then, instead of 23.1% of NYC respondents saying they directly knew someone who had died from COVID-19 as reported by Bloomberg News, the number may be more like 50% if it isn't themselves. :( Also per the same Bloomberg News report, 40% of NYC residents reported knowing someone who tested positive for COVID-19. None of the numbers are surprising since this pandemic has been much more severe than seasonal influenza -- reinforced by the fact the NYC death toll from COVID-19 has now surpassed that of the 1918 influenza pandemic by a thousand.

One can only hope NY Governor Cuomo has the necessary resolve to act decisively if and when COVID-19 trends head south and has the necessary insight to take proactive steps to minimize COVID-19 importation through interstate travel.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 391,578 cases (208,954 - NYC; 34,175 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,824 (+83) including 22,043 deaths in NYC and 1533 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1584, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 832, 4. United Kingdom 611, 5. Italy 566 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 12 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,117 / 1856 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,336 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1016

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 116,825*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 138,388

13 June 2020:
The Trump Administration just acknowledged the rising COVID-19 cases in the USA after days of silence and trying to pretend it away! Not surprisingly xenophobia plays a big part -- they blame Mexico for the situation! Let's be clear, Mexico is NOT responsible. What is responsible is their reckless and rushed re-openings that ignored conditions on the ground, constant mocking of the pandemic as "fake news" and a "scamdemic" and their complete contempt for simple proactive measures such as wearing face masks and protection that have misled so many people and made them perfect recipients for and spreaders of the virus! Their motto even if they didn't say it was -- "Yeah go out and frolic in the waters, gather in groups and run around the streets, resist legitimate guidance and... get sick and die!"

In sharp contrast, NY had one of its best days re: hospitalizations and deaths prompting Governor Cuomo to declare, "New York, once the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, now leads the nation with one of the lowest infection rates." He also praised everyone who had followed the State's guidance and taken preventative measures saying, "...by their actions [they] have saved thousands of lives. That is not overly dramatic. That is not rhetorical." With these gains, it's imperative NY take all precautions to protect its newfound status made through hard fought sacrifices.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 392,473 cases (209,493 - NYC; 34,253 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,874 (+50) including 22,076 deaths in NYC and 1535 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1587, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 833, 4. United Kingdom 614, 5. Italy 567 [Source: Worldometers 7:45 PM EDT 13 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,167 / 1859 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,369 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1049

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 117,524*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 139,087

14 June 2020:
New York had another great day re: COVID-19. With such an improvement, greater numbers of people have disregarded social distancing and protective measures; in some areas it appears rampant. Consequently, NY Governor Cuomo warned these areas would be shutdown again if the local authorities couldn't be effective. Perhaps if the residents of these areas could publicly shame the selfish who refuse to act responsibly, such an unfortunate development can be avoided. I hope it can be, but Governor Cuomo is justified when he vows, "We are not going back to that dark place" when for a moment, it appeared COVID-19 might prevail when there were so many deaths around the area that crematoriums, cemeteries, undertakers, and morgues couldn't keep up.

As today was my 12th anniversary, my wife, son and I took a ride around various places; it was uplifting to see how the restaurant scene has come back to life with outdoor dining that on mild, sunny days like today, is more appealing than eating indoors. During this time, we came across a BLM demonstration that was about to begin, in which all participants were instructed they had to wear face masks. We participated for an hour. Once back home we capped off the day with pastries and a bottle of Nicholas Feuillante French champagne.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 393,134 cases (209,878 - NYC; 34,290 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,911 (+37) including 22,103 deaths in NYC and 1535 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1589, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 833, 4. United Kingdom 614, 5. Italy 568 [Source: Worldometers 8:30PM EDT 14 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,204 / 1861 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,396 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1076

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 117,853*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 139,416

15 June 2020:
With stubborn determination to hold a rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma despite the City's health director warning, "it is transmitting very efficiently," President Trump per The Week in an article titled Trump the superspreader? is about to fail "the test of leadership for a second time" re: the COVID-19 pandemic as he maintains his "overall approach to the virus, which has been to ignore it until he can't, and then to try to wish it away." Per Trump, as reported in the Washington Post, "If we stop testing right now, we'd have very few cases, if any." Consequently because of his approach and the emboldened defiance of many of his followers who refuse to take precautions and social distance, COVID-19 cases are rapidly increasing in many states. :(

Sadly, as New York has bent the curve after a horrible two months through hard-fought sacrifices, many have become complacent and are ditching precautions, a move that can only bring bad results and more heartbreak. Per playwright Jan Rosenberg's dire Twitter warning, "This is the way the world ends..." because of their "psychopathic lack of human decency."

Last, with phase II re-openings expected in NYC in early July, it would be prudent for everyone to exercise a little patience since if they do so, the numbers will allow such an opening. If they don't and try to rush things, the next stage may be delayed. :( It was already another great day in NY so please, let's keep the momentum going!

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 393,803 cases (210,259 - NYC; 34,327 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,952 (+41) including 22,124 deaths in NYC and 1535 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1591, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 834, 4. United Kingdom 615, 5. Italy 568 [Source: Worldometers 8:00PM EDT 15 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,245 / 1863 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,417 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1097

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 118,283*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 139,846

16 June 2020:
As COVID-19 continues to wane in NY, Brazil and now India are suffering terribly, the former because of a stubborn President who refuses to take necessary action and the latter because of a lack of resources. One can only hope the world acts to pressure Brasilia and provides much needed assistance to India. In the USA, Florida and Texas reported a record surge in cases today, with Jacksonville, FL. where one of my sisters lives, shutting down bars and restaurants. :( She and her family are in my prayers.

With the improved situation in New York, visitation privileges have been restored in hospitals. However, nursing home visits remain prohibited since the State Department of Health says they "don't justify the risk."

At the same time, NY Governor Cuomo announced the U.S. Open Tennis tournament will be played as scheduled in Flushing Meadows, Queens but with no fans.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 394,449 cases (210,591 - NYC; 34,358 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 30,998 (+46) including 22,145 deaths in NYC and 1537 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1593, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 834, 4. United Kingdom 618, 5. Italy 569 [Source: Worldometers 7:30PM EDT 16 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,291 / 1865 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,438 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1118

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 119,129*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 140,692

17 June 2020:
New York, after sharing the darkest moments of Italy and Spain, continues to do exceptionally well and with re: to the latter, without concealing data. As a result, NY Governor Cuomo announced Friday will be his last daily COVID-19 briefing. From a NY perspective, it definitely feels a lot safer now! :) Still, there is reason for concern that COVID-19 cases will sweep back into NY from out-of-state visitors and commuters.

At the same time, a tsunami of cases continues to pick up across the USA with six states (Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma, Oregon, Nevada and Florida) reporting record jumps. Texas also reported an 11% surge in hospitalizations. Nevertheless, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Trump supporter rejected taking action and vowed to continue on his reckless path with more re-openings despite the fact Jacksonville's mayor took the courageous step to shutdown that City's restaurants and bars. Also, it must not be forgotten, Florida has falsified COVID-19 data to defend re-opening (corroborated by former Department of Health scientist Rebekah Jones, who had been dismissed for her refusal to go along with their corruption) in the first place.

Also, while it is reassuring the Atlanta police officer will be held to account for his cowardly murder of Rayshard Brooks who had been shot twice in the back, based on charges leveled, and protests continue to keep up the pressure to bring about much needed reform so America is no longer an oppressive police state for African-Americans, it is concerning to say the least, the CDC reported 55% of COVID-19 cases involve African-Americans (33%) and Hispanics (22%) -- warning signs some are delaying treatment because of discrimination, population density issues, and inequitable medical care and outreach within their communities.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 395,031 cases (210,941 - NYC; 34,385 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,046 (+48) including 22,171 deaths in NYC and 1539 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1596, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 835, 4. United Kingdom 621, 5. Italy 570 [Source: Worldometers 8:30PM EDT 17 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,339 / 1868 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,464 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1144

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 119,941*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 141,504

18 June 2020:
As states like Florida continue to experience record COVID-19 cases, NY Governor Cuomo has begun to focus on protecting NY from a resurgence. Today he discussed the possibility of placing travelers from Florida into mandatory quarantine, a move I support just like I supported when Florida put New Yorkers into mandatory quarantine during March and April 2020.

The numbers again looked good in NY. Let the situation continue to improve here and may the rest of the world that remains mired in their darkest days find some much needed respite and light at the end of the tunnel.

Last, as a sad note, a 40s-something pharmacist at my local CVS died likely from respiratory distress from COVID-19. :( Autopsy results are currently pending. She will be missed. Yes, the deaths are fewer, but they're still around. :(

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 395,832 cases (211,260 - NYC; 34,409 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,092 (+46) including 22,199 deaths in NYC and 1542 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1598, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 836, 4. United Kingdom 623, 5. Italy 571 [Source: Worldometers 8:30PM EDT 18 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,385 / 1870 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,492 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1172

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 120,688*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 142,251

19 June 2020:
This afternoon President Trump warned potential protestors in Tulsa, OK of unpleasant consequences in a blatant act of hypocrisy. Why should they listen to his warning when he refuses to heed warnings issued to him that he cancel his "super-spreader" event scheduled for tomorrow! Considering Florida, Texas, and Arizona recorded new COVID-19 records today, the USA daily caseload surged past 33,000 and the Americas (North and South) are viewed with alarm by much of the world, the aftermath of Trump's "super-spreader" event won't be pleasant.

Also, in another sign the Republican party has been hijacked by extremists, the Governor of Nebraska ordered the counties in his state to reject mandating face mask useage even though in the 18 states they have been required, some 40,000 lives have been saved by best estimates. Furthermore, additional evidence of deliberate under counts of COVID-19 cases has emerged as four nurses at a critical care hospital in Athens, GA filed a lawsuit after patients who received positive results were re-tested with swabs incorrectly inserted so officials could then deliberately falsify and conceal COVID-19 data claiming the initial test results had been "false positives."

New York's days of improvement took a step back today when the death toll for the first time in five days exceeded 60 and new cases rose above 1100. Hopefully this is an anomaly and not an indicator of things to come as increased numbers of regions advance through their phased openings. Nevertheless, NY Governor Cuomo gave his last daily COVID-19 press briefing and said he hopes he doesn't have to come back at a later date, but warned, it's up to New Yorkers. Yes, our COVID-19 destiny is in our hands -- we can determine which path New York takes. Let's hope the extremist few don't force us down the path of darkness and a repeat of the March and April horrors.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 396,999 cases (211,670 - NYC; 34,455 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,159 (+67) including 22,236 deaths in NYC and 1542 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1602, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 837, 4. United Kingdom 626, 5. Italy 572 [Source: Worldometers 7:30PM EDT 19 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,452 / 1873 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,529 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1209

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 121,402*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 142,965

20 June 2020:
With just hours to go before President Trump's "Super Spreader" event in Tulsa, OK, one must ask if fascism has arrived in the United States or at least in the "Red" states. Considering this event will put tens of thousands of people at risk from COVID-19 and will serve as a propaganda event where facts are suppressed and false narratives are created , is it any different than the Reichsparteitag or "Reich-party Conventions" (held from 1923-1936) to promote Nazi propaganda and hate? Free speech in "Red" states like Oklahoma is definitely under threat as Trump acts like an autocrat issuing unconstitutional warnings to chill dissent. Today a woman who peacefully sat near the convention hall exercising her First Amendment Free Speech rights with a "I can't breathe" t-shirt was arrested; a man who wore a fake propaganda banner on his butt that read, "COVID-19 my ass!" was left alone.

America is in a dangerous place with COVID-19 that appears now to be running out of control with the country having its second straight day of more than 30,000 cases and a fascist autocrat that attempts to stifle free speech and protect that status-quo that promotes racism and protects confederate, hateful monuments that celebrate oppression and evil no different than those of the Third Reich that Germany wisely purged from society. This is a time when Americans cannot allow themselves to be intimidated by threats! The protests must continue for racial justice so no more innocent Black people are murdered and people must speak out against the rising fascist tyranny if liberty and lives are to be preserved!

Additionally, an Associated Press-NORC poll found 67% of Americans disapprove of Trump's handling of race relations with a majority stating he made matters worse and 62% disapprove of his COVID-19 approach.

For now, NY appears to be a safe haven from COVID-19 and fascism, but for how long? November can't come soon enough!

On a brighter note, now that barber shops re-opened in my neighborhood after a nearly three month shutdown, I finally got a haircut. :) Of course the barbers and customers alike wore face masks since they are meant to protect and very effective at doing so! :)

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 397,840 cases (212,061 - NYC; 34,486 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,174 (+15) including 22,244 deaths in NYC and 1544 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1602, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 837, 4. United Kingdom 627, 5. Italy 572 [Source: Worldometers 8:30PM EDT 20 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,467 / 1874 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,537 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1217

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 121,980*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 143,543

21 June 2020:
FDNY (Fire Department of NY [City]) reported from 1 March - 25 April 2020, the number of cardiac arrest cases doubled with COVID-19 playing a direct or indirect role in some 3600 fatalities. The flu certainly wouldn't have such an impact.

Two bright notes: NYC will begin Phase II re-openings on Monday, 2-3 weeks sooner than originally anticipated. :) Also President Trump's "Super-Spreader" propaganda rally fizzled with less than 6,200 people attending despite expectations all 19,000 seats would be filled. The outdoor overflow presentation was cancelled. Nevertheless, Trump did state he wanted coronavirus testing to be slowed to suppress case numbers. Even though his aids say he was joking, based on past statements and attempts to purge fatality info, I believe he was serious.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 398,670 cases (212,446 - NYC; 34,521 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,215 (+41) including 22,278 deaths in NYC and 1545 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1605, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 837, 4. United Kingdom 628, 5. Italy 573 [Source: Worldometers 8:15 PM EDT 21 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,508 / 1876 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,571 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1251

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 122,246*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 143,809

22 June 2020:
"If at first you don't succeed, try again..." go the lyrics to Aaliyah's song Try Again. Obviously President Trump after a dismal showing at his Tulsa rally, will be holding another "Super-Spreader" event in Arizona tomorrow evening -- a state with an even greater incidence of new COVID-19 cases. Without a doubt, even if he doesn't admit it or denies it, Trump is doing his best to spread the virus since as the count now stands from Tulsa -- 8 staff members and 2 secret service agents infected -- is probably too low for his liking if he is trying to promote so-called "herd immunity." The problem is though, evidence of gaining immunity after suffering from COVID-19 remains scant. :(

Currently 23 states are experiencing rising numbers of cases lead by California (+5523 cases today), Texas (+5112 cases today), Arizona, and Florida, with the latter state now utilizing 75% of its ICU beds. Not surprisingly, the USA for the third time in four days had more than 30,000 new cases.

In stark contrast, NY now has the lowest transmission rate in the country. Nevertheless Governor Cuomo vowed to re-impose shutdowns if things change for the worse. Also, my local community along with others have officially cancelled their 4th of July fireworks shows -- a good idea since social distancing would've been impossible.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 399,378 cases (212,741 - NYC; 34,557 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,268 (+53) including 22,321 deaths in NYC and 1546 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1607, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 837, 4. United Kingdom 628, 5. Italy 573 [Source: Worldometers 8:15 PM EDT 22 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,561 / 1879 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,614 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1294

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 122,602*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 144,165

23 June 2020:
Today the USA reached a new COVID-19 peak with 36,000+ new cases. Considering President Trump (a.k.a. COVID-19 Spreader in Chief) will be holding a super spreader rally in Arizona that just saw a record 3500+ increase in cases, the question is, will he take a victory lap and claim credit for the Coronavirus cases? If not, he should!

Joking aside, he and his family are taking on new dictatorial qualities. Donald Trump, Jr. suggested statues of his father be put in place where confederate and other racist statues were destroyed -- clearly the mindset of dictators like Kim Jong-Un and the late Saddam Hussein who had their images and likenesses plastered everywhere.

Also on the cover-up front, Florida just changed its ICU metrics. Now hospitals are no longer permitted to report the number of people in ICU units but are required to report a number that is subjectively deemed to require an "intensive level of medical care" to suppress COVID-19-related numbers when it comes to ICU capacity used.

Sadly, my brother Don reported that a Vice Chancellor within his university system died of COVID-19 today, one of over 40 today in NY despite the improved conditions. Aside from this tragic news, NY also had a lot of good news to report. Considering, new COVID-19 cases have remained for the most part around 700 per day, speculation has begun that NY, unlike so many other states, having exercised disciplined and patient re-openings based solely on scientific data vs. emotions and economic interests, might avoid a COVID-19 resurgence being experienced by so many other states. Also based on a study led by Texas A&M University professor Renyi Zhang, it appears the use of face masks, responsible for the start of NY's turnaround after being mandated by Governor Cuomo on 15 April 2020, likely "reduced the number of COVID-19 infections by more than 66,000 in New York City from April 17 to May 9."[1]

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 400,042 cases (213,056 - NYC; 34,581 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,314 (+46) including 22,343 deaths in NYC and 1547 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1610, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 838, 4. United Kingdom 632, 5. Italy 573 [Source: Worldometers 8:15 PM EDT 23 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,607 / 1881 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,636 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1316

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 123,473*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 145,036
_____________
[1] David Robinson. COVID-19 is surging in 22 states; not NY. The Journal News. 19 June 2020. 5A.

24 June 2020:
On a day when the USA recorded a new record number of daily COVID-19 cases (+39,103) led by Texas (+6177) and Florida (+5511), The Washington Post reported the Trump administration "plans to end support of testing sites on June 30, including seven sites in Texas" that just experienced a record increase in cases and where "hospitalizations are climbing rapidly."

In response, several states are now delaying re-openings (Kansas, Louisiana, Nevada, North Carolina, and Oregon), Universal Studios in Orlando announced they're shutting down again and Disneyland has postponed re-opening.

At the same time, NY remains in a good position with one of the lowest transmission rates in the nation. :) To protect these hard fought gains, the Governors of NY, NJ and CT announced the establishment of much needed border controls that entail a mandataory 14 day quarantine for people entering the tri-State region from states where 10 out of every 100,000 people test positive over a rolling seven day period or where the positivity rate is 10% or above of the total population, also over a rolling seven day period. Shortly afterwards, the White House announced President Trump would be traveling to NJ and wouldn't abide by the quarantine despite having been in Arizona last night. His depraved actions clearly demonstrate a desire to spread COVID-19. :(

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 400,761 cases (213,348 - NYC; 34,597 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,346 (+32) including 22,365 deaths in NYC and 1548 deaths in Westchester County.

Deaths / 1M Population:
1. New York 1611, 2. Spain ---, 3. Belgium 839, 4. United Kingdom 635, 5. Italy 573 [Source: Worldometers 8:30 PM EDT 24 June 2020]

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,607 / 1881 Deaths / 1M Population
New York City: 27,658 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1338

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 124,281*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 145,844

25 June 2020:
Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in the USA, it has been politicized hopelessly impairing and effective response; President Trump and his followers discourage essential precautions and wish to pretend it away by blaming tests and falsifying numbers downward while Democrats implore people to base their decisions on science and take the necessary precautions. Now racism has been injected into it with Breitbart writer Joel B. Pollack saying, "If you supported Black Lives Matter, don't complain about the Coronavirus spike." He blatantly deflects from the true cause -- rushed re-openings with reckless abandon such as in Texas, Florida, and California, to name three of the states now experiencing record cases and scary increases in hospitalizations. Packed beaches in the latter two states also didn't help. At the same time, NYC, which had some of the largest BLM protests is experiencing no such spike. Why? Because NYS and NYC engaged in patient, calculated and science-based re-openings and 95+% of the protesters wore masks (I know because I've been a part of two of these protests). In fact NYC will not begin Phase III re-openings until July 6th if all goes well. Those who refuse to comply with necessary state orders, the President who incites disobedience with his refusal to wear a mask and planned defiant trip to NJ (that today has surpassed NY with the highest deaths per million population after probable deaths were added to their count) to flout the newly established quarantine rules intended to protect tri-State residents and COVID-19 deniers are to blame.

Nevertheless while some Republican leaders seem finally to be getting it -- Texas Governor Gregg Abbott has now appealed to his residents to wear face masks to stop the spread and halted further re-openings, Florida Senator Marco Rubio has made the same plea to his constituents -- others still don't. For instance, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has defiantly refused to implement a face mask policy while West Virginia Jim Justice basically forced his State's Department of Health and Human Resources Commissioner Cathy Slemp to resign after she refused to falsify COVID-19 numbers downward.

At the same time, the CDC stated America's COVID-19 cases may be as much as 10 times higher than the confirmed number of reported cases based on large samples of antibody test results. Likewise with that possible 24 million figure, CDC numbers also indicate the U.S. COVID-19 death toll through week ending 20 June 2020 may be as high as 161,695.

Last, the USA reached a new peak today with a record 40,184 new COVID-19 cases. Appropriately at one point today, the New York Times had an article titled, "How the Virus won."

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 400,761 cases (213,699 - NYC; 34,642 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,373 (+27) including 22,384 deaths in NYC and 1549 deaths in Westchester County.

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,666
New York City: 27,677 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1357

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 126,771*(*)
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states / (*) Includes probable death adjustment for NJ's figures
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 148,334
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll based on CDC estimate: 161,695 as of W/E 20 June 2020

26 June 2020:
The word of the day is "delusional," which by definition is the holding of beliefs that are contradicted by reality. Today Vice President Pence held a Coronavirus task force press briefing that bordered on insanity when he stated, "All 50 states and territories across this country are opening safely and responsibly... The truth is, we did slow the spread. We flattened the curve... [We've] made remarkable progress!" President Trump, who at least canceled his provocative trip to NJ scheduled for tomorrow, didn't even bother to show up for it! To him, "What pandemic?" Protecting Confederate statues is more important than protecting human lives!

The fact is, the USA never flattened the curve; cases showed a brief decline but now snaked up to record levels. Our graph looks nothing like that of countries that made real progress and now have few cases following original sharp spikes when outbreaks began. And no, every state and territory did not open responsible or safely. Texas, for instance began re-opening on 1 May -- far too early. Georgia and Florida also began re-openings even though scientific data didn't support such a move. Beaches were also re-opened in an unwise move so the record US surge in COVID-19 cases isn't surprising. The only element of surprise is that it took a little longer than expected before the resurgence followed but part of this may be because of the falsification of data and COVID-19 under counts. No wonder the EU has to implement a travel ban on Americans!

Sadly, the UK that in spite of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, made significant progress and did flatten their curve may be in for future trouble after beaches were so packed the government had to issue a "Major Incident" alert after tens of thousands defied stay-at-home orders. To me, these people along with everyone here in the USA that refuses to social distance and wear a face mask can be equated in some way with members of al-Qaeda and ISIS. The only difference -- the latter kill with explosives, guns and knives; the former kill with a biological pathogen.

Today, the USA led the world with new COVID-19 cases (+47,341) and in the process set a new national record. Florida smashed its daily record with +8942 new cases followed by California (+5872) and Texas (+5614). With hospitals in the Houston, TX area at capacity, a red alert was sent by Houston's Mayor to every resident's cell phone that urged immediate "sheltering in place at home." It's that bad now and anything but "remarkable progress," to use the Vice-President's words. :(

At the same time, there is even some reason for concern in NY as for the second straight day, new cases exceeded 900. Also, could anyone explain why California isn't on the list of states where people have to be quarantined when coming to NY?

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 401,694 cases (214,070 - NYC; 34,700 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,421 (+47) including 22,421 deaths in NYC and 1551 deaths in Westchester County.

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,714
New York City: 27,714 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1394

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 127,640*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 149,203
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll based on CDC estimate: 162,628 as of W/E 20 June 2020

27 June 2020:
Even though NY continues to do well with less than a 1% positivity rate on COVID-19 tests, COVID-19 remains active and therefore continues to be a concern. Today, during the course of my work, I came across a 40ish male on his hands and knees in the street groaning, moaning and complaining of a terrible fever and difficulty breathing. He was ultimately hospitalized and even though I'm not privy to the results of his test, it's probable he is suffering from the Coronavirus. Sadly, neither he nor his female partner who had been exhorting him to get up, were not wearing face masks. :( Also, NY Governor Cuomo reported that a student who returned from a recent trip to Florida (now a COVID-19 hotspot) before the mandatory quarantine was implemented is likely responsible for a small but growing cluster of cases in Chappaqua, Westchester County that must be stopped before they get out of hand. :(

In any event, my growing feelings of safety from COVID-19 are now gone, having vanished in an instant since despite the improved situation, one can encounter it anytime, anywhere and thus precautions cannot be relaxed. It also gave me the bad feeling that COVID-19 is percolating below the surface with unknown community spread and soon, NY may again be in a bad position. I pray not!

At the same time, the United States had more than 40,000 new cases for the third day in a row and now has surpassed Brazil for most COVID-19 cases over a seven day rolling period. Florida had a record 9585 new cases and Texas had a record 6079 new cases. :(

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 402,505 cases (214,434 - NYC; 34,748 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,452 (+31) including 22,441 deaths in NYC and 1552 deaths in Westchester County.

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,745
New York City: 27,734 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1414

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 128,152*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 149,715
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll based on CDC estimate: 162,628 as of W/E 20 June 2020

28 June 2020:
COVID-19 numbers appear to be holding steady in NY despite the Chappaqua cluster as they surge elsewhere in the country. COVID-19 numbers appear to be holding steady in NY despite the Chappaqua cluster as they surge elsewhere in the country. The USA had over 40,000 new cases for a fourth consecutive day, though off yesterday's record total.
Reasons could be: It is Sunday with numerous jurisdictions taking the day off from reporting and the fact Florida concealed some 2,000 cases and at least 6 deaths. This morning Florida officials reported a record 10,682 new cases and 33 new deaths. By the time that State's governor gave his press conference, the numbers had been changed to read 8530 new cases and 27 new deaths. Yet under-counts, falsification and outright fraud will not get Florida or the USA out of its COVID-19 crisis.

As the pandemic worsens despite a lowering of the death toll with 32 states or more than 60% of the country seeing a rising rate of infections, many leaders are finally discovering reality and just how bad it is; they put out statements like, "Los Angeles County is at a critical moment," and "The pandemic has taken a very dangerous turn" (Texas Governor Abbott) and "The window is closing" for the U.S. to get the COVID-19 pandemic under control (Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar). In additions, shut downs are being enacted and even expanded including in "red" (Republican-run) states, which by no coincidence are seeing the largest surges.

In contrast to the states that had recklessly re-opened too early, New York City to date has experienced no BLM protest-related COVID-19 upticks debunking racist arguments. Why? Because an overwhelming majority of the protesters wore face masks and personal protection (hand sanitizer and gloves) were often handed out before marches began with participants instructed to utilize face protection and engage in social distancing when possible.

Daily Stats based on Positive COVID-19 tests -- New York: 403,266 cases (214,750 - NYC; 34,780 - Westchester). NY Confirmed and Probable COVID-19 deaths: 31,484 (+32) including 22,470 deaths in NYC and 1554 deaths in Westchester County.

Data with CDC Addition of 5293 deaths (reported 11 May 2020):
New York State: 36,776
New York City: 27,764 vs. 26,320 (1918 Influenza Pandemic), +1444

U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll: 128,437*
*Despite deliberate undercounts in some states
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll with WAPO/Yale Addition of 21,563 deaths (reported 30 May 2020): 150,000
U.S. Cumulative COVID-19 Death Toll based on CDC estimate: 162,628 as of W/E 20 June 2020