Tuesday, March 17, 2020

As America Slows


Day 2 of the coronavirus forced social distancing commences today. Maryland shuttered more businesses yesterday in an attempt to stem the advance of the virus. 

spring breakers and asked them to refrain from large
gatherings where COVID-19 could spread.
An aerial view shows an area of South Beach that the city closed in an effort to prevent the spread of the coronavirus on March 16, 2020 in Miami Beach, Fla. Miami Beach city officials closed the area of the beach that is popular with college spring breakers and asked them to refrain from large gatherings where COVID-19 could spread.Joe Raedle/Getty Images
Life is devolving for many people. So far, it is not music worse than a bad snowstorm, but in a couple of days it is going to become very real as more and more services are lost and businesses shut down. I kind of wish that had a nice beach to walk on, which reminds me that even our renters in our Florida condo decided to head to their home early. But wait, some beaches are being closed--which makes no sense to me. But, I guess they don't want the college kids to congregate on the beaches. 

There are rumors of impending dire governmental actions out in the public as the fear of the unknown increases. 

The ABC News Report at the link recaps much of the day's events. 

One aspects of the closures really concerns me--that is the closing of the churches and worship opportunities. During times of crisis, some people turn to the churches for comfort and support, with the closing of worship opportunities, I worry that these people may become disconnected and disconsolate. I know that our church is reaching out aggressively to find and help those in need--and hopefully others are doing the same. 

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday, March 16, 2020

Monday Musings - March 16, 2020




1. Yesterday was the Ides of March. Today marks 30 days until it is time to reckon with the tax man. This is not my favorite countdown of the year. Oh well, render unto Caesar, I just wish Caesar was a bit more responsive and less oppressive about his tax bill. 

2. Welcome to Coronavirus forced social distancing. Will this become the new normal for American society. 

George Gipp
3. I was reminded of this famous quote as a source of inspiration for each of us during the coronavirus crisis: "I've got to go, Rock. It's all right. I'm not afraid. Some time, Rock, when the team is up against it, when things are wrong and the breaks are beating the boys, ask them to go in there with all they've got and win just one for the Gipper. I don't know where I'll be then, Rock. But I'll know about it, and I'll be happy." - George Gipp

4. I watched a movie about a WW2 situation over the weekend and I believe there are parallels between the mobilization of the American populace to fuel the Industrial Complex during the 1940's and the mobilization of the American populace to control coronavirus today. We can do this. There will be sacrifice--but if we believe, we will persevere.

5. The Mall in Columbia is closing in response to coronavirus. 

6. I attended a very nice wine event over the weekend during which I was able to sample a wine which is not going to be released until April 11th.

7. Words of advice. Do not allow yourself to become isolated and solitary. Continue and even increase your communication through phone and other means as you wrap yourself into the cocoon of social distancing.

8. Here is an interesting item--the Fed cut interest rates over the weekend and stock futures are down, again, this morning. Oh wait, I've seen this headline before.

9. Today in History, 1792. The United States Military Academy–the first military school in the United States–is founded by Congress for the purpose of educating and training young men in the theory and practice of military science. Located at West Point, New York, the U.S. Military Academy is often simply known as West Point. Located on the high west bank of New York’s Hudson River, West Point was the site of a Revolutionary-era fort built to protect the Hudson River Valley from British attack. In 1780, Patriot General Benedict Arnold, the commander of the fort, agreed to surrender West Point to the British in exchange for 6,000 pounds. However, the plot was uncovered before it fell into British hands, and Arnold fled to the British for protection.




Headlines

Does Coronavirus Mean the End of Sports as We Know Them? - The New York Times

Calm and compassion: Ministers preach stirring sermons about the coronavirus — in empty cathedrals. - The New York Times

American Airlines cutting international flights by 75% amid demand collapse - OANN

From Eiffel Tower to Moulin Rouge, Paris landmarks close in virus clampdown - OANN

Gasoline becomes more affordable, just when Americans don't need it - Reuters

UK government evokes wartime Blitz spirit for fight against coronavirus - Reuters

Dow futures plunge 1,000 points after Fed cuts interest rate to zero - CNN Business



Ronald Reagan Quote for the Week

This week, President Reagan on taxes:

“Government does not tax to get the money it needs; government always finds a need for the money it gets.” 
“You can’t be for big government, big taxes, and big bureaucracy and still be for the little guy.” 
“The American people are not undertaxed, the government in Washington is overfed.” 


-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Sunday, March 15, 2020

Coronavirus Survival


Life is about to go onto hold for the next two weeks as we implement social distancing to thwart the spread of the virus. 


Businesses, schools, libraries, activity centers all will be closed--yet, life will and must continue!

A list of Baltimore and Maryland closures it at the link: Closures

Chris and I have been working on preparing for two weeks of near isolation, except that I expect to go to work. Baseball practices are, as might be expected, canceled.

Last week Chris was busy stocking supplies for the coming weeks. I was not much help, but I did make sure we have enough wine. Wine is, after all the perfect food! While we cannot live on bread alone, I'm pretty sure we can live on wine alone!

Be well and take care. Remember, even if you are practicing good social distancing--you are not alone!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Saturday, March 14, 2020

And the Dog will Lie with the Cat


Finnegan, Riordin, and my Foot
Watching a Movie
Elkridge, MD
March 13, 2020
Weird things happen sometimes. 

For instance last evening, Finnegan and Riordin were laying together on my legs as I watched a movie.

That does not happen often around here as Finnegan tends to be a bit territorial and usually chases Riordin away so that he can enjoy the lap or space all to himself. But not last evening. It was like the lion laying with the lamb. 

I did record Riordin and Finnegan sleeping together once before, on Easter Sunday last year as they enjoyed a sunbeam. But, it happens infrequently. 

Watching them provided a much needed break from the coronavirus news. I was supposed to have a baseball practice today--but that fell victim to the "out of an abundance of caution" cancellations that are sweeping the nation. Which is also the reason that I will not be traveling to NY this coming weekend to visit my parents--I would not want to unwittingly become a vector for the transfer of the virus.


-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Friday, March 13, 2020

A Bright Moment Amid the Sea of Closures


When I walked outside with the dogs this morning, I was greeted by the sweet smell of Springtime on the breeze mixed with the moisture of the rain which had fallen overnight. It uplifted my spirits during a period when the news of coronavirus has become so prevalent that is seems to be the only thing we are hearing. 

We are at war! But it is not a war against a virus--it is a war against ourselves and our needs to be with people and at events. We are not designed as solitary people living lives without interaction with others. 

The list of closures is expansive. 

If you can think of it, it is likely closed.

In Maryland schools close as of Monday for two weeks along with all associated activities. Additionally, gatherings of 250 or more people are forbidden--and that includes churches. The Baltimore cruise terminal is closing as well.

It should be remembered, however, that life is not ending, we are only "sheltering-in-place" until the plague passes by.

In terms of my own personal vendetta against the coronavirus, I have thus far been unsuccessful in getting refunded for travel and most lodging expenses associated with my now canceled Italian vacation. I continue to work that, however, and am hopeful that at least some money will be refunded. 

I note, however, that the wineries remain open and so there is respite from the closures and dire news.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD


Thursday, March 12, 2020

I Just Gotta Say This


I was amazed last evening as I watched the President speak to the nation about the coronavirus. The President gave the most cogent, thoughtful, and meaningful address of his presidency. 

It was the first speech that he has given where he did not blame Obama or the democrats for the situation we are facing. He took responsibility for the actions he was taking. Yes, there were some exaggerations--for instance the President said he took early and intense action, but I felt as if the country was taking more of an ostrich approach to the coronavirus when it all began. He also called for unity and encouraged the country to come together.

I was especially impressed with the following paragraph which displayed an acute sense of history:

From the beginning of time, nations and people have faced unforeseen challenges, including large-scale and very dangerous health threats. This is the way it always was and always will be. It only matters how you respond, and we are responding with great speed and professionalism.

Note: Speech quotes are from The New York Times

I immediately thought of the Black Plague during the Middle Ages and the Spanish Flu of 1918-1920.

The economic impact of the coronavirus is being felt--the markets are crashing, people are getting sick, but hopefully last evening's speech will help stem panic and help people approach the situation from a more rational and informed point of view.

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD


Wednesday, March 11, 2020

When to Panic? Not Now!


When panic ensues nothing good happens. 

I am concerned that we are becoming so focused on COVID-19 (a/k/a Coronavirus) that panic is setting in. 

I am seeing panic in the stock markets, and on the news, and in our leaders as they attempt to deal with the impact of the virus. It is hard to miss--but, we need cooler heads and and a calm approach to what is happening around us. 

Let me put the coronavirus in perspective.


Johns Hopkins Coronavirus World Chart
March 11, 2020
As of this morning, according to the Johns Hopkins coronavirus tracking chart, there have been 1031 cases in the U.S. with 29 deaths. 

According to the CDC, there have been 18 million cases of the flu, 180,000 hospitalizations and 10,000 deaths in the U.S. this influenza season – including 68 children. 

Here is a headline from USA Today:

Coronavirus is scary, but the flu is deadlier, more widespread


I just had to cancel my April trip to Italy because of coronavirus and I am losing a bundle of money. But I have a better chance of becoming infected with the flu--and no one seems to care. 

Keep calm in the face of ensuing panic. 

Take precautions, be careful and live, live without fear!

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

The Moon Rises


Moon Rise
Odenton, MD
March 9, 2020
The moon rose over Odenton last evening as our baseball team enjoyed perfect weather and conducted its first outdoors practice of the season. The lights of the field illuminated the players and the practice field while the moon rose in the distance. 

It was good to have practice outside and prepare the upcoming season. The team had been practicing at an indoors facility since January. Being outside again we had the room to accomplish drills and distance throwing that we could not at the indoor facility. The infield is under renovation, so we were confined to the outfield, but we still managed to have a very productive practice. Monday practices promise to be interesting as they do not begin until 7:30 PM. I have to admit that it was nice not to face rush hour traffic to arrive to practice. It was a much more enjoyable drive and took the normal amount of time to traverse the distance from Elkridge to Odenton.

The boys worked hard, but the rising moon was the highlight of the evening for me. 

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Monday, March 9, 2020

Monday Musing - March 9, 2020


Orion in the Night Sky
March 7, 2020
1. Well, hard to believe, but this is the 2nd Monday in March and we are sliding through the month. All too soon, or not soon enough, April will be here. 

2. The Democratic primaries have gotten a lot simpler with just Sanders and Biden remaining in contention. 

Fire Pit
Elkridge, MD
March 8, 2020
3. I took a picture of the constellation Orion the other night. It seems to be the one constellation that follows my year and when it finally disappears from the night sky, I can finally enjoy the summer. It, however, still graces the evening sky!

4. Fire pit! Yes. Yesterday evening was so beautiful that Chris and Spent about three hours around our fire pit enjoying the sunset and the end of the day. We listened to Sirius XM's Top 1000 Country Songs of all time!

Tete a Tete Daffodils
Odenton, MD
March 8, 2020
5. Spring is here. I saw this bunch of Tete a Tete Daffodils in a yard yesterday. A bright bunch of sunshine.

6. The bills for the apparently strong economy of the past few years are beginning to come due. It seems that the fox has been guarding the hen house!

7. Springtime yard work is therapeutic. Yesterday, raking leaves and setting up the pool area helped to shake-off the winter's doldrums.

8. I survived another "Spring forward" start of Daylight Saving Time! The shortest day of the year is behind me. The ground hog was correct with the prediction of an early Spring!

9. Today in History. On March 9, 1959, the first Barbie doll goes on display at the American Toy Fair in New York City. Eleven inches tall, with a waterfall of blond hair, Barbie was the first mass-produced toy doll in the United States with adult features. The woman behind Barbie was Ruth Handler, who co-founded Mattel, Inc. with her husband in 1945. After seeing her young daughter ignore her baby dolls to play make-believe with paper dolls of adult women, Handler realized there was an important niche in the market for a toy that allowed little girls to imagine the future.


Headlines

Coronavirus Updates: U.S. Cases Cross 500, and Deaths in Italy Surge - The New York Times

Oil Prices Dive as Saudi Arabia Takes Aim at Russian Production - The New York Times

Italy locks down millions as its coronavirus deaths jump - OANN

 Brace for quarantines, U.S. health official warns - Reuters

 North Korea fires three projectiles into sea, South Korea says - Reuters



Ronald Reagan Quote for the Week

The taxpayer - that's someone who works for the federal government but doesn't have to take the civil service examination.


-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Saturday's Business


Saturdays always seem busy, and yesterday was typical. Soon, Saturdays will be filled with baseball doubleheaders, but this Saturday allowed us to do some work around the house and enjoy the Home and Garden Show.

The day began cold, with temperatures in the 30's, but it made it to 40 by 1000. No matter the weather, the remaining ornamental grasses around the pool needed to be trimmed and Chris and I were done with the task at the landfill dropping them off by about 1030. Then it was a stop at the farm store for peanuts to continue feeding the bluejays. I think the peanuts remain in the bed of the truck this morning. Oops.

Tractor Part with Damage Highlighted
March 8, 2020
Then it was time to repair the tractor. Fortunately, I had a pretty good idea what had happened and I had the spare part already in hand. It was a fairly straight forward replacement and I was done in about an hour. The damaged part was, in my estimation, the result of a poor design. A spring attaches in the hole and over time had worn through the metal. This part activates the mower blades and so there is a great deal of pressure on the point. It seems to me they could have done a better job designing this part to minimize the potential stress so that it would last longer. I guess it is all part of planned obsolescence. 

Gobbler at the Home Show
March 7, 2020
After lunch we headed off to the annual Home and Garden Show in Baltimore. We enjoy walking around and seeing dreaming of remodeling, although for this year our budget is going to resurface the pool. It seems that always find something interesting and it turns out that we found bees wax and pine tar infused cloths to replace plastic wrap! They are reusable and cleanable. Very cool since we are trying, mostly unsuccessfully, to reduce our plastic footprint. 

We also managed to come home from the show with 8 bottles of wine. It is amazing how that happened. We go to a home show and find wineries! Imagine that! And there was this magnificent gobbler at the home show as well. I had to take an image of him. He was much better looking than the red kangaroo that was also on display. 

After returning home we enjoyed dinner and settled in for the evening and enjoying the last night of Standard Time until November, or maybe ever if Congress decides to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, which I wish they would. 

-- Bob Doan, Elkridge, MD

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