Love
Author: Madison Edwards, San Diego, CA
"All We Need is Love" was placed at a roundabout in Encinitas, CA. The sign is surrounded by colorful pink and purple flowers. Behind the sign are three tall palm trees and a beautiful view of the ocean. Amidst a picturesque California scene, this sign reminds us to take care of each other and protect our home.
"A Boy & His Dog, Masked" sits along the trail surrounding Lake Hodges, CA. These statues have had a recent addition: masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This recent and temporary addition to a permanent piece of art reminds us that someday we will retire our masks and again enjoy the outdoors unobstructed.
"Clean Hands on the I-5" was taken on Interstate 5, south of Del Mar and north of La Jolla, CA, although similar signs are found on other freeways in San Diego and throughout the United States. Today's message reads "Clean Hands, Help Fight COVID-19." Other messages have read "COVID-19, Less is More, Avoid Gatherings" and "Avoid Travel, Stay at Home, Beat COVID-19."
"Highway Advertisement" was taken in Escondido, CA. This advertisement reminds us to appreciate those working on the front lines to protect us, those doing their part to keep us safe by staying home, and those helping people who are more vulnerable. The company that sponsored this advertisement, along with many other businesses such as cell phone companies, have taken this opportunity to stand out by making donations, reducing costs, or providing free services. Although it is hard to argue that these companies are not motivated by publicity or tax write-offs, many of us are still benefiting greatly from these changes.
"Free Parking on a Sunday Night" was taken in Rancho Santa Fe, CA. This photo shows two oddities. First, lots of available and free parking outside of a restaurant on a weekend night. As anyone who lives in San Diego will tell you, finding parking, let alone free parking, is quite an endeavor. Especially on weekends. Second, restaurants are no longer bustling. Many restaurants have closed, although some are staying open only for the occasional pick-up or delivery order.
"Store Guidelines" were taken in two stores in Solana Beach, CA. They demonstrate the precautions to be taken when entering a grocery store: wear a face cover and maintain your social distance (~6 ft). Other precautions include wearing gloves, limiting the number of customers allowed in a store at one time, prohibiting the use of reusable shopping bags, and senior shopping hours. These precautions are taken to prevent the spread of coronavirus through droplets or aerosols. Everyone must behave as if they have the virus and do not want to spread it to others (as some people are asymptomatic) and as if they have not had the virus and do not want to catch it. Everyone's behavior has been modified: people are in less of a rush, and they wait patiently for their turn to look at a shelf so as not to crowd each other.
"Parks Closed for Play" was taken in La Jolla, CA. To prevent the spread of COVID-19, many parks have closed. Some have people or police posted outside to prevent people from entering. Hiking trails have also been closed, and tickets issued to those who ignore the signs. With many activities prohibited, parks and trails became flooded with people, making it difficult to maintain a safe social distance. Will parks and trails be as popular when the stay-at-home order ends? Will we continue to cherish our time outdoors?