By: Tomas Rodriguez

As the pandemic forced students to leave their residence halls coinciding with spring break, approximately 2,500 returned to campus in order to either check-out or retrieve personal belongings. They were allowed to do so stretching between May 8 and the 18.

University Police, along with Facilities and Residence Life and Housing outlined a plan that would help students move out safely by breaking down timeframes. The days were divided into two time slots –9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The number of students on campus averaged 250 per day.

Students had to choose from various options, which Residence Life and Housing then had to approve.

“We take the same precautions that we have since mid-March, including wearing face coverings when in close contact with other persons and disinfecting our patrol vehicles and equipment regularly,” University Police Interim Chief Kevin Velzy said. “As far as a college policy, we will continue to follow the guidelines of the CDC, and our government leaders.”

If the university was to outline a social distancing and face covering policy, students who did not comply would face disciplinary consequences.

“This is an interesting time for the entire world. We are all learning day by day how to adjust and move forward with caution based on the data we have, the research that is going on, and making the best decisions we can for the good of all,” Velzy said. “We hope that everyone, especially our students, are having a safe and productive summer, and we hope to have everyone back on campus as soon as practicable.”

An official statement from President Stanley as to what the final decision for the Fall will look like is expected to come in the following weeks.

OSWEGO, NY— The time has finally come. Oswego’s own Taco Bell has finally opened and with promotions to celebrate. 

On Wednesday morning, locals attended the grand opening and ribbon cutting for the fast-food chains new location. The new addition to Oswego’s dining options has taken about 6 months to construct, and after numerous delays caused by weather conditions a gas pipe running through the property has finally opened on October 30. The marketing director, Jessica Woodburn has been waiting for this moment. 

“So I think that everyone here in Oswego has known that this has been a long time coming we’ve been working diligently to find a location and due to situations out of our control,” said Woodburn. “We had a couple of locations fall through but then we were able to get this fantastic location on George Street. We’re excited we’re finally open people have been very patient and we think that today is just going to be a phenomenal opening day.” 

A familiar face was seen at the grand opening, Oswego Mayor Billy Barlow. 

“Well it’s great to finally have Taco Bell in Oswego. We had a many years ago and it left Oswego, but now it’s back and it’s finally here and we’re so excited. There’s a huge demand here in the city. Between people in the SUNY community and people who just overall love Taco Bell and are tired of driving to Fulton or North Syracuse to get it. I think they’ll do really well and we’re happy to have them,” said Barlow. 

Some of their favorite Taco Bell orders? 

“Chicken Quesadilla with a Mountain Dew,” said Woodburn. 

As for Mayor Barlow, “I like the box of tacos, the cinnamon twists, and then the Baja Blast which I think you can only get at Taco Bell.”