New York (Eagle News) — While New York has successfully flattened the curve after having one of the highest infection rates in the U.S. to one of the lowest, other states are now reporting record numbers of positive cases of Covid-19. As more businesses reopen, NY residents are still being reminded to be smart and to wear masks when out in public and social distancing is not possible. Giant masks adorn statues at Rockefeller Center and the New York Public Library as visual reminders to remain vigilant and cautious while the threat of the pandemic is still ongoing.
Statue of Atlas carrying the world on his shoulders now dressed with a mask. (Photo by Joanne Soriano, EBC New York Bureau, Eagle News Service.)
The lower plaza of Rockefeller Center with a statue of Prometheus wearing a giant mask. (Photo by Joanne Soriano, EBC New York Bureau, Eagle News Service.)
Close-up of the Prometheus sculpture wearing a mask. (Photo by Joanne Soriano, EBC New York Bureau, Eagle News Service.)
Rockefeller Center plaza stands empty. This walkway is usually filled with tourists and office workers from nearby buildings. (Photo by Joanne Soriano, EBC New York Bureau, Eagle News Service.)
Two marble lions — named Patience and Fortitude — stand guard at the entrance of the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building on Fifth Avenue. These beloved statues celebrated their 109th birthday in May. (Photo by Joanne Soriano, EBC New York Bureau, Eagle News Service.)
The lions set an example for patrons to wear masks as select library locations reopen for grab-and-go service on July 13. Masks will be mandatory to enter the branches to pick up or drop off materials. (Photo by Joanne Soriano, EBC New York Bureau, Eagle News Service.)
The masks worn by the lions measure 3 feet wide by 2 feet tall, and are made with non-eroding material so as not to damage the marble. (Photo by Joanne Soriano, EBC New York Bureau, Eagle News Service.)
