Life in a Pandemic Part 2
It takes annoyingly long to open the lengthy "Life in a Pandemic" post for editing, so I'll continue with a second post. What I might have expected to last maybe a few months has now continued for a year and still more to come!
On the way
out of town a nice view of the historic Hudson-Athens Lighthouse in mid-River, Over
the Rip van Winkle Bridge with beautiful views of the Hudson & Catskills on
the way home.
The political news is not so exciting with Trump out of
office, but Biden is busy. He continues to work to undo Trump actions; e.g.,
eliminating the military transgender ban, addressing climate change &
environmental protection. reestablishing Obamacare options for those who’ve
lost coverage. Cabinet members are being approved. Not agreed on everything, of course. Ongoing
arrests of Capitol mob members and finger-pointing at congressional inciters.
An
example of the crazy in our country: Islamaphobic & anti-Semitic
Congresswoman Greene supports QAnon, with its conspiracy theories like a cabal of
Satanist pedophiles exists thruout the government, believes that California
wildfires caused by a Jewish laser from space and 9/11 & school shootings
were staged fakes, and suggests leading Democrats should be executed. Even
McConnell says such “loony lies & conspiracy theories” are a “cancer.” But Republicans
talk “unity” rather than calling Trump to account. Adding a Hitchcockian
atmosphere, large black crows fill neighborhood trees & roads creating a
cacophony, plus loud pecking on the roof.
There’s
good news & bad news on COVID. New cases in the US declined 35% the past 3
weeks. Early signs of herd immunity and/or better preventive behavior? But deaths
have not declined (now 430,000) and new variants may lead to another surge. Biden orders restrictions on international
arrivals; this has been effective where strictly enforced (e.g., Australia). Indeed,
Australia offers quite a contrast: as of 2/12 cases are 28 million in the US
vs. 29K in Australia (US 75x greater per capita), deaths 490K in the US vs. 900+
Australia (US 40x greater per capita). Aussie colleague Peter shared an
illustrative story: his wife Ellen & son Quinn went to Australia for Quinn to
begin college there. Their plane from LA held 260 but only 14 passengers! Met
on arrival by security and ushered to a hotel for required 14-day quarantine,
literally locked in their room. When done they were struck by how strange to be
where no one wears a mask. Medical journal Lancet
asserts because of Trump’s policies on health care & the economy and
mishandling of the pandemic 40% of US deaths were “avoidable.”
More on COVID: A WHO team is in Wuhan trying to trace COVID’s origin. Gov. Cuomo, an early
COVID hero, is taking heat for
a 3/20 directive saying nursing homes could not deny admission due to COVID or test
before admitting that may have increased nursing home deaths, and for
“undercounting” those deaths (some 30% occurred after transfer, e.g. to
hospitals).
Marjorie gets her 2nd
vaccine shot, all achy next day, I get my 1st 3 days later (2nd
in 3 weeks); she got Moderna, Pfizer for me ˗ we can compare reactions. Also
updated MRI & new PR regimen to (hopefully) help with my back/leg pain. A
sign of the times: vaccinations briefly shut down at Dodger Stadium in LA by
far-right anti-vax protesters. The US
is nearing Biden’s 1.5 million doses/day; but Europe’s vaccinations have
“descended into chaos.” COVID Crazy also continues here: WI Republican
legislature (tho reversed by Dem Gov) & IA Rep Gov repeal mask mandates (Rachel:
“Just in time for Super Bowl parties”), tho a recent study shows significant
hospitalization decline with state mask mandates. There are racial inequities
in cases, deaths, and vaccinations.
This
seems a good place to note Matt’s efforts to combat COVID at MSM. He took the
initiative, supplying UV lights to each percussion student, assigning small pods to rooms
to be responsible for, dictating no sharing of equipment, etc. He was
instrumental (pun intended) in devising school-wide protocols, which
include time for cleaning rooms between use.
Happier events:
Another pretty snow. Up again to Zim Smith, a train blocks the road so I find
other views & return.
Marjorie conducts a Zoom Christmas cookie taste test
using Mary & Jeff + Queens Wards + me as test subjects, 3 recipes
(conveniently A, B, & C) to compare on texture, taste, & mouth feel;
there’s general agreement on A.
A sunny
day offers photo ops on my Red Cross drive. A swing into downtown Kingston to
view the many colorful building murals.
Continuing south to Putnam Health
Center in Carmel thru pretty hills and by the prison, snow-capped Catskills on
the way home.
A big early February storm closes NYC vaccine sites, but offers
more photo ops on my Red Cross drive.
And I use my Christmas coupon for a
made-to-order Duck Donut. Will this last any longer than the ballyhooed &
short-lived Krispy Kreme?
The
Irish American Heritage Museum Zooms an enjoyable St. Brigid’s Feast Day (with roots from
Celtic goddess to Catholic saint) concert by Triskele, all-female Celtic band
combining “stunning harmonies” & “Irish wit.”
Followed by Super Bowl
Sunday! In
contrast to other college & pro sports, the NFL got thru the season with no
cancellations ˗ assisted by nearly 1 million COVID tests! 2 star QBs: Tom Brady goes for his 7th title, Patrick
Mahomes his 2nd in a row. It’s the 1st time a team plays
at home in the Super Bowl (Tampa Bay). The 75,000 stadium has only 25,000
(masked), including 7,500 vaccinated health care workers for free, filled in another
30,000 cardboard cutouts. Other notables: the 1st female Super Bowl official, a
streaker in “hot pink onesie.” National
Youth Laureate Amanda Gorman follows her appearance at the Inauguration with a
stirring tribute to health care workers; plus a Black Lives Matter pregame
ceremony. By the way, Tampa Bay over KC 31-9. Will
there be a Super Bowl Spreader from maskless parties & celebrations before,
during, & after? Next day I make my 1st
Red Cross run to Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield MA, a view of the
Berkshires along the way.
The
January 6th Capitol insurrection still “looms large,” as Rachel puts
it. New Yorker article “The Storm”
(1/25) documents how Trump (& others) stirred up & encouraged far-right
groups & white supremacists before, during, & after the election; and a
frightening litany with detailed observations of violent actions leading up to
and during the Capitol insurrection. Among the Capitol Police: nearly 150
injured, many severely, 1 dead, the latter only the 5th private
citizen to lie in state in the Rotunda. Some in Congress oppose newly-installed
metal detectors (to keep guns out, after all!), the House votes to fine those
who refuse to go thru. As
Biden gives his 1st foreign policy speech, with sharper words for
Russia, the House votes (all Dems + 11 Republicans) to strip Rep. Greene of
committee memberships after Republicans refused to sanction her. More about the Trump administration: A “deeply troubled”
GAO report offers wide-ranging condemnation of the pandemic response, noting
many recommendations were largely ignored. CDC guidance was buried or edited by
such “experts” as Kelly Ann Conway & Ivanka Trump.
Initial presentation by House Managers combines
constitutional/historical/logical arguments with very personal stories, eloquent
& impassioned, including a powerful video interspersing Trump’s words with
very graphic portrayals of the mob storming the Capitol, attacking police,
looking for Congressional targets. In sharp contrast, Trump’s defense team
(“the firm of Meandering & Furious” says one commentator) is disorganized
& unfocused; mostly “dreadful reviews,” even Trump backers “wince,” Trump
reportedly “furious.” We remain glued next day to the House managers’ detailed
& haunting presentation, including previously unseen security footage and
body cam videos. [Some Republicans, in contrast, according to one report were not
so glued ˗ “explicitly not listening…feet up on desks…reading books.”]
In the
midst of this awful “reality show” some encouraging COVID news: 3 weeks since a
Jan 8th peak average daily cases down nearly 60%, deaths also begun
to decline. But also a dose of sobering news: the UK suffering its worst
recession since the “Great Frost” of 1709.
We need
respite: its Valentine weekend! We distribute thank-you roses
(from WMHT “Roses
for Radio”) to CSSC staff (“leftovers” for us to enjoy), Marjorie cookies to
other friends.
I encounter a “rafter” of turkeys on my way to the Red Cross,
and can attest that turkeys indeed can fly, tho rather ungainly, at least into
trees. Wildlife
must be taking over while we’re locked down – late-night Marjorie spots a bunny
out front & 2 deer strolling thru the neighborhood.
Valentine’s Mass
includes hearts & prayers for the ill and their caregivers. After an
updated view of the church construction, we follow the lead of Stephen Colbert’s
wife Evie to take a Valentine drive. Marjorie relates a conversation with Matt,
who now seems to be the King of Queens Composting. A return to “quintessential New
England” Stockbridge. A quick stop at the Mary Flynn Trail for a view of the Housatonick
River.
A swing thru town for photo ops of pretty buildings. A good, filling
lunch (pastrami sandwich & Angus burger) at Michael’s, walls full of Norman
Rockwells.
Up to the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy just as Mary texts
complaints about weather, politics, etc. Marjorie texts back we’ll pray for her
at this Marian site.
Up Prospect Hill past views of striking “cottages,”
including Gilded Age Naumkeag. We continue past Tanglewood,
Hancock Shaker Village
with colorful buildings pretty in the snow. Back
home after a lovely day! We keep the celebration going next day with sweet
Hallmark movie, “Valentine’s Again,” wherein the heroine keeps repeating VD (a
la “Groundhog Day”) until achieving a happy ending.
Fat Tuesday arrives
here accompanied by a “massive/historical” winter storm stretching from Oregon
(where niece Annie & family have no power, living in the basement for fear
of falling trees) to Texas to Maine. Parts of the US over 50° colder than
normal; -27° in Rhinelander WI, -38° in Hibbing MN; “thundersleet” &
tornados; multivehicle pileups. Millions lose power in Texas (including nephew
Greg & family + burst frozen pipes), lack of drinkable water, even food
shortages. Has happened before ˗ haven’t winterized their energy grid, not part
of national grid for backup (don’t want to be “regulated”). We’re mostly
spared, roads ok for my Red Cross drive, ice on trees & fog, photo ops.
Another sign you can’t keep a good celebration down: Mardi Gras has
become “Yardi Gras,” with thousands of homes around New Orleans decorated as
“house floats.” A needed source of work for local artists. And virtual parades
in lieu of the usual big parade. Sambadromes
in Rio & Sao Paolo used for vaccine stations, not partying.
In
other-worldly news: Perseverance rover launched 7/20 lands on Mars
2/18/21 to look for signs of life in area thought to be favorable. NASA
provides illustration of the landing and photos on the surface. A Bernie meme
has been spotted, but that seems suspect.
We enjoy another
local outing to the Albany Institute of History and Art. Special exhibit “A
Sense of Time: The Historical Art of L F Tantillo,” 90+ works by local artist
Len Tantillo. His paintings capturing historical scenes of Albany & New
York State are noted for attention to detail & historical accuracy.
Beautiful colors and use of light. Exhibit includes some of his preliminary
sketches & models.
Scattered about are incredible miniatures by Joan
Steiner: “Look-Alikes” created using “everyday objects and edible treats” like
crayons, cookies, gloves, coin purses, tea bags. Also sculptures & other
exhibits (e.g., Hudson River School landscapes), and mummies too! Not
to be outdone, Marjorie participates in “The Women’s Show” at Art Associates
Gallery.
The end
of the week vaccinated Marjorie gets to celebrate in NYC for William’s 16th
BD. I stay home, but she delivers my “William is 16!” photobook. Plus Saturday
is National Love Your Pet Day. And Arlo loves his Grandma; he shows her his
basement playroom, goes for walks, snuggles up to sleep with her (and doesn’t
snore!).
Marjorie also takes the opportunity to see the new Moynihan Train Hall
across from Penn Station. It occupies part of the old post office, a historic
landmark Beaux-Arts building. Two interesting features: restaurants not open,
but murals make them seem full of people; “The Hive” seems an upside-down
Manhattan of skyscrapers hanging from the ceiling.
By the way, I get my 2nd
vaccine shot (aka
“Fauci ouchies”) Sunday; feel out of sorts that evening, but unlike Marjorie I’m
fine the next day. I
celebrate by getting a haircut. We still need masks, can get COVID but less severe, and
probably not infectious.
We
celebrate near the end of February with CSSC’s “Warmth of Winter” via “virtual
take-out” ˗ good food & plentiful wine for a good cause (heating cost help
to low-income seniors), but we miss the party atmosphere.
We follow that with a
virtual ESYO Youtube highlights concert, including, of course, their percussion
ensemble where Matt cut his teeth.
COVID
good news/bad news continues. A sad milestone of 500,000+ COVID deaths in the
US is marked by a brief speech by President Biden ˗ Rachel calls it a “national
eulogy” speaking directly to survivors with such empathy from his own family
experiences ˗ followed by a moment of silence with both “First Families.” Sad
that such acknowledgment of loss was never seen in the Trump White House. On
the good side, new cases, hospitalizations, and deaths continue to decline, tho
still higher than earlier peaks; and
health experts warn against easing restrictions prematurely. Nonetheless,
states are starting to loosen things; e.g., ending mask mandates in Texas &
Mississippi, even NYS is loosening restrictions on nursing home
visits, billiard halls, and move theaters, and allowing “socially-distanced”
dancing at weddings (still no Conga lines?). CDC is considering loosening
restrictions for people who are vaccinated. And a 3rd 1-shot vaccine
now approved. An
“epidemiological whodunit”: the NY Times
ponders why COVID mortality rates are much lower in much of Africa & Asia ˗
younger populations, more time outside, exposure to past coronaviruses?
Political
nonsense continues. Trump speaks at the CPAC convention, still claiming a
stolen election and looking to punish those who opposed him. He still dominates
the Republican party, tho
sending a “cease & desist” order to stop using his name in fundraising ˗ he
wants all the money for his own fundraising. They buy into his Big Lie as reflected in many legislative
efforts make voting more difficult (by one count 253 bills across 43 states) and
thereby disenfranchise demographic groups favoring Dems. The House passes a
voting rights bill that’s unlikely to pass the Senate. Biden’s
$1.9 trillion COVID relief & government funding bill passes (with only 2
House Republicans, none in the Senate - complaints
about cost, tho about the same as Trump tax cuts for high-income people) but only after trimming some progressive
items to keep “moderate” Dems (jettisoning a minimum wage increase &
reducing stimulus & unemployment payments. Nonetheless, the “most
transformational thing” is the
In royal news: Oprah’s
interview of Harry & Meghan reveals some “bombshells” about their life,
including racist behavior, that led them to give up titles & state funding. The Palace response: “The issues raised are
taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.” In
other media news: Rachel Maddow is excited & very grateful to be the #1
cable show in Jan & Feb, MSNBC #1 cable channel in Feb. So maybe there is
some room for hope. 6 Dr. Seuss books will stop being published due to racist
& insensitive imagery; Fox News & Republicans obsess about “cancel
culture,” tho it was the decision of his estate & publisher. I do my photo
ministry thing for the recording session for St. Pius’ virtual Lenten
Breakfasts.
Now
into March, a year since the beginning of COVID consciousness in the US. A
memory from Marjorie on 3/12/20: She’d gotten tickets to “Riverdance” at Radio City
with Anthea & Miles. Train to NYC, walking to the theater, a voice mail instructs not to go to Radio City,
everything cancelled! So disappointing, but then a puzzle: no refund sent. Turns
out the voice mail was sent in error ˗ Broadway had gone “dark,” but the Radio City
show had gone on. She did eventually get the refund.
We
thought (hoped) at the time there would be relatively short-lived disruption,
but here we are still longing for a return to “normal” (whatever that will be);
deaths have reached at least 534,000 US & 2.6 million worldwide. We do seem
to be gaining some control: vaccinations moving along, cases & deaths in
long-term-care facilities (only 1% of population, but 34% of deaths) declining
significantly, March Madness college basketball on schedule, Broadway moving to
open next month;
but Fauci
& other experts still caution against moving too fast to open things up. Cases
are increasing in parts of Europe where vaccination has gone slower, and some
countries have suspended use of an Astra-Zeneca vaccine due to disputed claims
of blood clots ˗ which will only encourage anti-vaxxers. At
the end of March cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are increasing in the US,
the CDC head holds back tears to urge “please hold on” and don’t resume normal
activities too soon. So we’re not out of
the woods just yet, tho to paraphrase a car commercial we’re “looney in
lockdown, bonkers in the basement, crazy in quarantine.”
St.
Patrick’s Day brings more virtual celebration. It’s getting hard to juggle
sometimes conflicting Zoom schedules of our group & board meetings,
concerts, interviews, etc. Elizabeth Stack, Director of the Irish Heritage
Center, is interviewed by Diane in the 1st of a CSSC series on
“Women Leading Extraordinary Lives.” Very interesting, starting with her family
history & childhood in Ireland and the diverse pathways in her life. Programs
of Irish music via Zoom & Youtube (of somewhat uneven sound quality).
My
Mendelssohn Club brother Mike Donegan sings as part of Albany’s Virtual
St. Patrick’s Day Parade that includes Irish daning.
A bagpiper plays after St. Pius Mass. My St. Paddy’s
Day mostly taken up by Red Cross blood deliveries to a personal record 7
hospitals from Hudson to Ellenville, 8 hours driving 300 miles! Occasional
Irish tunes on the radio, including Elvis’ take on “Danny Boy.” I’m surprised
by a rousing welcome from security guys at one hospital ˗ early Guinness? And
intimidated by a rafter of large wild turkeys in woods near one road. A
pleasant end to the day: friend Eric joins us for pretty
incredible “A Taste of Ireland” take-out dinner from CSSC (they
serve more than 400!): corned beef &
cabbage, boiled potatoes, root salad, soda bread, and chocolate-Guinness cake!
More
activity in a busy March. Spring begins, along with my golf season (seems a
good time to also resume my ABC gym routine), tho still some patches of snow
& ice on ponds ˗ a Red Cross drive to Cooperstown offers another example.
More
signs of Spring: tulips are coming up, lots of robins, the lawn is greening
(and growing!), an early visit by the Easter Bunny. I spot yet another large
rafter of turkeys on my way to the landfill one morning, Should I be alarmed?
Marjorie suggests maybe they’re my spirit animal (Hmmm, what’s she implying?).
She
does another Queens break; well, “break” maybe not the best word ˗ she’ll be a
gardening consultant for Matt’s efforts around their building.Matt
has been using extra COVID time to get into gardening, and composting – where
he finds “a bunch of little old ladies” with whom he’s quite a hit! He cooks, he
gardens ˗ where did I go wrong as a father? And he still finds time to create
an impressive home studio. Grandma
is also impressed with all the computer stuff William is putting together in
his bedroom.
On the
national front: Biden lays out more of an ambitious agenda, “progressive” or
“radical left” depending on your politics: $3-4 trillion for infrastructure,
education, family leave, etc., with increased taxes on the rich &
corporations. Voting rights legislation would counter Republican state
legislature efforts at voter suppression; Biden labels a Georgia law “Jim Crow.”
The 1st transgender official to be confirmed is Assistant Secretary
of Health. The Biden dogs return to the White House following additional
training after Major bit a Secret Service agent, tho
Major later has a biting relapse.
“Unaccompanied” migrant children overwhelming facilities
at the Southern border, attracted by a more humane federal approach. Rallies
against anti-Asian hate (spurred by “China flu” labeling) follow the shooting
of 6 Asian women (& 2 others) at an Atlanta spa. Another mass shooting
takes 10 lives at a Colorado supermarket. Other
shootings later at a Colorado supermarket and Indiana FedEx facility. Here’s a shocker: countries (and
states) with more guns have more gun deaths. It’s easier to buy a gun than
vote! Biden calls for “common sense” gun control for our “other epidemic,” but
is there any hope in the Senate?
Miles
returns with Marjorie to spend the week before Easter with us. Driving back on
the Thruway he’s excited to see his 1st deer (actually, several). A
walk to the playground right away, always a favorite spot. We finally have a
chance to show him the fabulous staging & dancing of Jesus Christ Superstar live in 2018 (with a star turn by Alice
Cooper as King Herod!).
Anthea sends a YouTube link of Miles’ solo parts with
the Nassau Men’s Choir.
We help him work on some “homework” (from other grandma
Nan): “40 Old-Fashioned Skills That Kids Need To Know” ˗ he’s able to check off
“how to” make scrambled eggs, sew on a button, clean a refrigerator, pump gas, do
laundry, make a salad. Fun games of Aggravation, plus, of course, he has time
on his devices.
After a
beautiful AM moon, I do my Red Cross thing ˗ a pretty drive west that offers
some photo ops, including the 1836 Old Courthouse in Fonda and a pretty church.
Golf buddy Mike tipped me off to an eagle he saw near Cobleskill; I spot it
atop a tree, looks like a nest below, but when I stop to take a picture the
damn bird flies away! Back home I find that M & M are out & about doing
“Easter stuff.”
Next day AM golf, then all of us
off to visit the National Bottle Museum in Ballston Spa. Are we that desperate
for an outing? Actually, it makes for a lovely afternoon. We drive past a
garden store with the Spring message “Romaine calm, seeds are here.” To the Museum,
established 1978, situated in what was a flourishing resort community in the
1800s with many mineral water springs, a popular “watering hole” for the rich
& famous; 2 springs still flow here. Millions of glass bottles per year
were made for mineral waters of the area. The museum showcases thousands of bottles
of all colors, shapes, and sizes.
But our main interest is the “March to March”
art exhibit. Artists reflect on how the pandemic has influenced their work;
e.g. Jackie Watzky has masks on subjects, including the Statue of Liberty. The
colorful show includes a number of our artist friends, as well as Marjorie ˗
who in only about a week has sold 2 of her 3 pieces!
We make a donation so
Miles can adopt an “orphan” bottle: an early-1900s cough syrup bottle that just
came in. Two stops on the way home: a “Hello!” to past dental hygienist David;
decadent mid-PM Guptill’s ice cream. Chinese for dinner. Miles and I watch part
of Godzilla vs. Kong (until Grandpa
dozes off ˗ we finish next day). A very full day!
Marjorie
has been cookin’ up a storm preparing a meal for the Interfaith Partnership for
the Homeless: 3 big hams, rice & peas, carrots, coleslaw, cookies & ice
cream. She delivers on April Fools Day (only a coincidence!). Speaking of April
Fools, it’s snowing!
The same day we’ve arranged a Zoom voice lesson for Miles with
Michael Clement, the wonderful Mendelssohn Club accompanist with whom I’ve had
a few lessons. I work with Miles to select and prepare some of his and my music
(including “We Rise Again,” specially for Canadian Anthea), plus whatever
Michael selects. I’m surprised to learn that Miles can’t read music. Given all
the concerts & shows he’s done, his ear & memory must be excellent.
Miles enjoys the lesson, from warmups like lip trills to work on phrasing and
other singing elements that Michael teaches so well.
I also show Miles a video
of Jimmy Cagney singin’ & dancin’ “Give My Regards to Broadway” &
“Yankee Doodle Dancy;” he’s impressed. Rachel M celebrates April 1 by listing
convictions, pardons, and ongoing investigations of Trump & his minions.
Miles
& Marjorie complete the day by coloring eggs.
The
rest of the family comes up the next day. Easter Bunny brings baskets for
everyone, Arlo included. A surprise opportunity: CSSC has openings for
vaccinations, so Matt & Anthea are able to get their 1st shots
with the help of 2 Easter Bunnies. Then they’re off for lunch at Gus’, Grafton
hiking, and shopping. More Aggravation with the boys. Grandpa wins 3 games
before his comeuppance. Then Arlo “helps” with my stretching. After dinner
cheesecake; haven’t had it for a while, Yummm! I toggle TV between Final Four
& Ten Commandments.
We can
actually go to church for Easter Sunday, tho still not normal: reservation
required, tracing forms, socially-distant seating in 3 venues: main sanctuary,
chapel, Parish Center for us. A view of progress on new construction.
Brunch
stuff from Hannaford. The family heads home after brunch, but back in a month
for a 2nd shot.Sad
news 2 days later: our Viking River Portugal cruise is cancelled again! We
rebook again, for April 2022 (fingers still crossed)!
More
pandemic news: Vaccinations keep increasing, now 3 million/day; herd immunity
in sight for midsummer. But Johnson & Johnson single-dose vaccine “paused”
to study some rare side effects. Will this fuel anti-vax sentiments? Due to
more infectious variants and letting up on precautions there are some uptick in
cases & deaths in the US (and almost ½ of the states) and the world
(4/9/21: US 31+ million cases, 560K deaths; worldwide 133.5 million cases, 2.9
million deaths. Increasing cases for young people, aged 10-29; 16-year-old
William becomes eligible in early April. Brazil is setting new COVID death
records, accounts for 1/4 of deaths worldwide. A nice e-mail from Victoria
Patterson of Saratoga’s “Mostly Modern Festival” in which Matt has performed.
“Sing for Hope” gives opportunities for Victoria & other musicians to
perform live at NYC vaccination sites ˗ and featured on CBS & MSNBC.
In
political news: Rachel M has a big night for “civics dorks.” Dems used “budget
reconciliation” to avoid a Senate filibuster and pass COVID relief by simple
majority. The Senate Parliamentarian Oks this for 3 more times, starting with
Biden’s infrastructure bill. Republicans will be unhappy. Rachel also explains
how Trump duped donors with deceptive recurring donations. Polls indicate most
Republicans believe the election was stolen from Trump and the 1/6 Capitol
attack was done by “violent left-wing protesters trying to make Trump
look bad.” Biden is plenty busy working on messy
leftovers. After Trump’s inaction, he places sanctions on Russia for
election meddling & computer hacking. And after 2 decades, all US troops
will be withdrawn from Afghanistan in September (NATO also withdrawing forces).
The
police officer in the BLM George Floyd case goes on trial for murder. The
Minneapolis police chief gives “damning testimony,” breaking the “blue wall of
silence” asserting the officer’s actions violated policy & training. Other
officers say the same. The there are more police shootings, an unarmed young
Black man near Minneapolis, a 13-year-old in Chicago. Protests follow.
In
other news: UFO reports
in the US rose by about 1,000 last year to more than 7,200; they nearly doubled
in New York. The main reason says The NY
Times: “As more people stayed home and fled cities, they found more time to
look up.” In Royal news, Prince Philip dies just
shy of his 100th birthday; his funeral is just days before the
Queen’s birthday. He married Queen (then Princess) Elizabeth in 1847, my birth
year. We’ve been watching their story on The
Crown.
I have
a Red Cross virtual meeting for volunteer drivers: a “game” with points for
correct answers about the RC, anniversaries, and honors (I’m recognized for
12,000+ miles last year). At Marjorie’s suggestion, I share a family tradition:
her father in the RC in WWII, Marjorie reentering the workforce after Matt was
born as RC nursing staff & bloodmobile coordinator, which got me into
donating (now “double red” since my blood is good for newborns) and eventually
driving after retirement. Yardwork begins a week into April: lawnmowing &
shrub trimming. Marjorie’s in & out to watch some of a virtual Relay for Life.
A couple
of beautiful Spring days for my Red Cross driving offers some nice photo ops, including
Mama Eagle on a nest outside Cobleskill that golf buddy Mike C showed me,
Fishkill Rural Cemetery, and various farms & flowers.
Marjorie needs an
outing, so despite a drippy day we visit Schenectady Central Park, a nearby
synagogue where a family asks me to take their picture amid beautiful trees,
and thru a neighborhood of what seem fairy-tale houses
to Gade Farm greenhouse
with beautiful plants plus Bigfoots & gnomes of all sizes. Marjorie fills a
box with plants for her garden. Back home in time to pick up our CSSC ”Happy
Tax Day” dinner, complete with scratch-off lottery tickets (M wins $1, nuthin’
for me). Not too surprisingly, Albany Spring brings snow cover next AM.
After
reading a newspaper item about an artist creating a mural out of donated tiles
& broken dishware on a Dunn Memorial Bridge support in Rensselaer, Marjorie
takes a bag of “stuff” to donate. She and artist Jackie Brickman have a nice
talk, she uses Marjorie’s stuff right away. The project is still in early
stages; we’ll be back.
The PM turns into another lovely Spring day for an
outing. First to Pine Hollow Arboretum. Flowering trees, 1 lonely primrose
(there will be many more!), lots of skunk cabbage. Daffodils enjoyed by 2
little girls. A huge fallen tree with a sparkling sunlight reflection on the
roots.
On to the Pruyn House. The property looks beautiful. While Marjorie
brings me up to date on all the happenings (she’s a member of Friends of Pruyn
House Board), we walk a trail being created by a Girl Scout. Lots more skunk
cabbage. A few days later I celebrate National Volunteer Day with a small bag
of treats from Red Cross Lab Director Stephanie and more lovely Spring photo
ops on my Red Cross drive.
But
Spring is interrupted by news, both worrisome & promising. QAnon fan
Congresswoman Marjorie Greene looks to create an “America First” caucus and
linked to call for adherence to "Anglo-Saxon political traditions." Broad opposition from members of
both parties; one Republican tweets: "The hatefulness of this statement is
only surpassed by its ignorance of American history and values." So maybe
there’s some room for hope. But she, of course, blames staff and "the scum
and liars in the media." And George W. Bush describes the modern
Republican Party as "isolationist, protectionist and, to a certain extent, nativist." Who knew - he seems to have evolved into an elder statesman.
In
BLM news: Derek Chauvin is found guilty of murdering George Floyd. There have
been only 7 murder convictions for police shootings since 2005, odds of 1 in
2,000. This is called “a signature trial” and "our Selma moment."
[Tho a “bizarre rant” by Fox’s Tucker Carlson calls it "an attack on
civilization."] BLM issues come close
to home: protests against Albany police behavior leads to an encampment outside
a station that police forcibly remove a few days later.Sadly, the pandemic
doesn’t dampen hostilities in the Gaza Strip, as Israel and Hamas rain rockets
on each other in May, creating a “humanitarian crisis”: at least 227
Palestinians killed, including children, 1,620 wounded, more than 58,000
displaced from their homes; in contrast. 12 Israelis killed.
Other miscellaneous items: In
gerontological news, death of a North Carolina woman, the oldest living
American at 115 or 116, who had 12 children, 68 grandchildren, 125
great-grandchildren, and at least 120 great-great-grandchildren! Exciting news:
Marjorie continues to make waves in the arts scene ˗ her piece (“Mixed bouquet”)
is accepted for a very competitive show at the Arkell Museum in Canajoharie;
217 pieces submitted by 48 artists, only 46 chosen by 37 artists. Marjorie has
also already surpassed her Relay for Life fundraising goal!
In space news:
Spectacular photos of Jupiter from NASA space probe Juno launched in 2011. And
on Mars Ingenuity helicopter becomes the first aircraft to fly on another
planet; only 10’ up & 40 seconds, but still a “Wright brothers moment.”
A
blast from the past: a radio listing of “on this day” includes the release of
horror film Lady in White (1988), for
which my buddy since childhood Carl Reynolds was Associate Producer.
On Earth Day (4/22)
Biden declares to a 40-nation virtual summit on climate a goal of reducing US
greenhouse gases 50% by 2030; after 4 years of inaction and outright resistance
to addressing climate change, this would put us almost on par with Europe, tho
still behind Great Britain. As usual, Republicans deride the idea. There was no
official attention to “Weed Day” (4/20), a St. Patrick’s Day for stoners
reflecting a numerical code linked to marijuana.
Unrelated to this we have an outing
with friend Linda McKenna (details in a separate journal on my ramblingwithruss blog).
First to New Paltz for brunch and exploring the area: pretty shops &
panoramic views of The Gunks, intriguing Unison sculpture park.
Then Cedar
Grove in Catskill, birthplace of Thomas Cole, founder of the nation’s first
major art movement, the Hudson River School, and other sights. A return to
Cedar Grove in the evening for “Spring Lights,” a walk through beautiful
lighting & audio of Cole’s writings. A couple of days
later another artistic experience: just as we’ve been watching L. Frank Baum’s
bio, Anthea sends video & photos of Miles’ role as Scarecrow in a school
production of Baum’s Wizard of Oz.
COVID news: India, which had surprisingly high
levels of mild cases, now having sharp increases. Factors cited include relaxed
restrictions, allowing events such as a Hindu festival with millions of
attendees, more infectious variants, and people who had mild or asymptomatic
cases remaining vulnerable. Cases are also surging in Japan;
polls show 60-80% of Japanese think the already postponed Olympics now
scheduled for late July should be postponed again or cancelled. In contrast,
cases & deaths in the US have declined despite talk of a 4th
wave of COVID this Spring. Why?: A large number of Americans have built up natural immunity by having Covid, the vaccination program expanded rapidly, and many
continued to follow mask & distance guidelines. New CDC guidelines in
mid-May ease masks for vaccinated except crowded situations, to move toward “more normal.” Europe will open
summer travel for vaccinated Americans. However, the news remains mixed. NY,
MA, and CT are easing most restrictions by mid-May, but Oregon has a surge of
cases; a church that sued the Governor over restrictions has 74+ cases.
Vaccinations have slowed some, and increased hesitancy to get vaccinated in the
US is bolstered by burgeoning anti-vaxxer social media; about 20% say they
won’t, about 50% of Republicans. It doesn’t help that
7 Yankees staff and 1 player test positive tho vaccinated. Various efforts to “incentivize” vaccination; e.g., Ohio has a
lottery to win $1 million or full 4-year scholarships, West Virginia gives away
shotguns & pickup trucks. Washington offers
“Joints for Jabs” as marijuana retailers host clinics and give a marijuana
cigarette. Vaccination
rates are extremely low in
most of the world, especially poorer countries, increasing the possibility of dangerous
new variants. COVID continues to affect iconic events. The
Oscars are presented in a more socially distanced cabaret venue.
Biden’s
“State of the Union” address limits attendance: only selective
representatives of the Senate & House, Supreme Court, military, and
Cabinet, with none of the usual symbolic guests. Even the NFL draft, all virtual
last year, is now staged in ways to maintain distancing: an outdoor theater and
faux “living rooms” for player families.
Just like COVID, Trump will not go
away. Liz Cheney is booted
from her GOP House leadership position for daring to speak out against Trump:
“We cannot both embrace the big lie and embrace the Constitution… we cannot be
dragged backward by the very dangerous lies of a former president." Rachel points out that his renewed election fraud rhetoric is actually
working against his supporters in jail after the 1/6 Capitol attack, as
prosecutors and judges are reluctant to release them in case they’ll be incited
again. She also ticks off fake stories concocted by conservative media &
politicians; e.g., Biden & progressives want to cut 90% of meat, cancel Dr.
Seuss and the Muppets, give Kamala Harris’ children’s book to illegal immigrant
children at taxpayer expense. Arizona’s
Republican-controlled Senate hired a QAnon-affiliated group to conduct an
“audit” of ballots, tho they have no election experience or expertise.Republicans trying to
rewrite history for the January 6th attack on the Capitol – it
wasn’t really violent, it wasn’t Trump supporters, it … fill in some other
nonsense. You just
can’t make this stuff up! A late May poll finds
73% of Republicans think Jan 6th was done by “left-wing protestors”!
Republicans then use the filibuster threat to block creating a commission on
the Capitol attack. There is trouble
brewing for Trump. By late May his business activities and post-election
meddling are being looked at by grand juries in NY and Georgia, and there may
also be federal investigations. On the other hand, most Americans approve Biden’s 1st-100-days
performance and his legislative proposals, tho the buildup of immigrants at the
border is a concern. Further, to Trump’s
dismay, a blog he created, “Beacon of Freedom,” is taken down after 29 days due
to “measly readership.”
A musical interlude: Talujon’s 6 members do their
1st all-solo performing, from different locations streamed on
youtube. Some exposition by composers, including 2 new pieces by female
students. Our Matt on vibraphone at MSM, a short piece “packed full of notes.”
“The other Matt” (Gold) at Williams in a room appropriately full of percussion
equipment.
Also in the media: more recognition for Marjorie
(Hmmm, I could get a complex!). She’s interviewed for CSSC’s series on “Older
Women Leading Extraordinary Lives,” focusing on her artistic endeavors (tho I
know her to be extraordinary in many ways!). Marjorie’s
acquaintance local chef Kizzy (of Allie B’s) is one of the contestants in “Chef
Boot Camp” on Food Network.
Marjorie
comes back from a visit to Queens helping Matt with his gardening. She drives
back with him & Anthea to get their 2nd vaccine shots.
I take
advantage of nice sun after several days of rain & high winds to get photos
of Spring popping out around the yard. Speaking of around the yard, neighbors
in back & on the side are adding fences. Is it something we did? They
assure us it’s not personal.
I have a scenic (and deeply discounted via a
voucher) round of golf at Copake Country Club, where (to paraphrase) they have
“all their ducks in a row.”
Next day anther scenic Red Cross detour south of
Poughkeepsie: Locust Grove, designed in 1850 as Italianate villa summer home of
Samuel F. B. Morse. Some OMG news items: Bill & Melinda Gates splitting up,
rocking the world of philanthropy. A 25-year-old Malian woman gives
birth to 9 babies (5 girls, 4 boys) after expecting “only” 7; it’s a new record
for surviving babies at once, “all doing well. Then just 1 month
later a 37-year-old South African woman one-ups her with a reported decuplet, 7
boys 3 girls!
”Gerontological news:
3 months after 43-year-old Tom Brady won a Super Bowl, 50-year-old Phil
Mickelson becomes the oldest to win a golf major; his take on being mobbed on
the 18th hole: “slightly unnerving, but exceptionally awesome.” AM golf and a checkup on the
Cobleskill eagles nest. They’re quite the local celebrities, even little
stuffed eagles in the golf course shop; another guy with a monster telephoto
lens. Later we watch Marjorie’s “extraordinary” CSSC interview; she & Diane
did a terrific job, IT-guy Michael cleverly worked in photos & graphics
(even “Oshkosj B-Gosh!”).
Then to Washington Park. The Tulip Festival is “virtual,” but the
tulips are real & spectacular.
Happy Mother’s Day celebration for
Marjorie: A festive dinner from CSSC on Friday. 8am Mass highlighted by
Marjorie’s favorite statue of Mary. Tidying up the yard, chain-saw action for
me (getting the yard & garden in shape seems to bring us full circle on the
pandemic). A phone call from “orchestra son” Billy. A nice finale Zoom call from
Queens. Another mother moment: tho I haven’t yet spotted the Cobleskill
eaglets, CSSC’s Beltrone Living Center now has 6 new goslings. For “Dad”: the CARGO golf league starts up again
in mid-May. 1st round, last hole, I roll in a 40’ putt to save par
(and birdie for the team score) . . . and our 4some takes 1st Place
by 1 stroke!
Later
in May we take an actual trip, visiting friends Francisco & Diane on
Nantucket for 4 days. Ferry from Hyannis (Marjorie counts as a cruise), walking
along beaches & bluffs & the historic whaling town, beautiful houses
& lighthouses. A detailed account is in my blog.
A couple of shorter jaunts
to Catskill a week later. First for golf with Mike followed by lunch along the
river and strolling thru town to take photos of some of the colorful cat
sculptures, the 15th year of Cat’n Around Catskill. I enjoy
it so much that Marjorie and I go down a few days later to wander along
downtown, up to St. Anthony Friary, and across the river to Frederic Church’s
Olana.
We enjoy a 4-day Memorial Day visit
by the Queens family. It’s the “unofficial start of summer,” but mostly cold
wet weather. Still, plenty of good food, “Apples to Apples” game, badminton
for Miles & Anthea, local shopping by the city folk, excited Arlo greetings.
A streamed concert of intriguing contemporary music by Ensemble Ipse,
Matt on percussion; videos of Miles performing at 92Y.
Marjorie and Matt explore garden sites, and she puts him to work digging
around her garden. William gets in some practice driving with his learner’s
permit! Excitement for
grandson Miles. He receives an end-of-the-year award from the 92nd
Street Y for his efforts in Musical Theater. Then he learns he’s been accepted
by his 1st-choice high school (no small accomplishment in the
complex and numerous school options in NYC): Talent Unlimited, on the Upper
East Side, focusing on the performing arts.
Marjorie’s performance hopes,
however, seem unfulfilled. The Gilded Age
filming in Troy starts, but no call-up. Maybe something else from the same casting
company will pan out. But now, she says, “I can get a haircut!” and she can still
bask in her “extraordinary” CSSC/YouTube interview. But wait, there’s a late
night “call,” actually an e-mail, to be “background”
(not called “extras” anymore, Marjorie informs me now that she's an acting veteran!) in an episode of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (on HBO)! Very early next AM to Brooklyn via
train, subway, and uber (with help from a friendly construction worker with an uber account) to
Steiner Studios in Brooklyn Navy Yard. A “state-of-the-art
‘production factory’,” the largest film and television production studio
complex in the US outside Hollywood, spread across 20 acres with 17
soundstages! COVID testing, followed next
day by another COVID test and wardrobe fitting.
I pick Marjorie up on her return
via Metro North to Poughkeepsie. A beautiful evening, scenic drive thru Hyde
Park, Rheinbeck, Red Hook, and lush green farmland with views of the Catskills
across the river. Dinner outside by Catskill Creek. Back home, I continue the
film theme by checking out what’s happening with The Gilded Age in Troy. Downtown Troy is hoppin’, full restaurants
spilling out onto streets, food trucks, a DJ on one street, lots of people
hanging out. You can go right up to the Monument Square shooting site, tho
directed away from entering it. I see people in Victorian costumes walking
around, horses & wagons, but no actual shooting. Next Monday evening Marjorie
takes a train down for the filmshoot in Manhattan, starting very early next AM.
She gets an e-mail on the train about needing pantyhose. Matt, ever the good
son, goes out to buy her some! There is much more to tell, but Marjorie signed a waiver, so I'm not at liberty to discuss details. I will say that she has a more visible role than expected and it was a wonderful adventure. Season 4 of Mrs. Maisel is scheduled to premiere in December 2021.
Where do we stand with the pandemic? COVID statistics
entering the last week of May show
declines for both cases & deaths in the US. The US has 34 million total cases, more than
600,000 deaths. World totals are 165 million
cases, 3.5 million deaths; India has 26 million cases & 291,000 deaths,
Brazil 16 million cases & 440,000 deaths. Certainly daunting and sad numbers,
and WHO estimates deaths may be 2-3 times the official stats. The COVID source
is still uncertain: animal-to-human transmission, leak from a lab in China? But
vaccinations are increasing: 63%
of adults in the US; Biden announces an array of prizes, from cruises to child care,
aiming for 70% in a “Month of Action.” Israel is about the same, but other
countries still low and suffer shortages; among the least is Japan at 6%, with
the Olympics still looming. The US is ramping up global sharing of vaccines.
Other good news is
accumulating. Daily cases in the US are at the lowest level since last June. The
mask mandate has been lifted for fully vaccinated people except in crowded
& institutional situations, and by Memorial Day
some places say no masks if vaccinated (relying on the “honor system”) and
others have no posted mask rules at all. Seems strange after a year of masking. NYC is “open for business” as symbolized by the
New Yorker cover “Venturing Out.” Schools are planning for
in-person teaching in the Fall. Stephen
Colbert plans to return to live audiences in mid-June. Mid-March sees a new
pandemic low for unemployment filing. Actually, employers
are having an “unprecedented hiring crisis,” partly due to extended
unemployment benefits & COVID relief money. Air travel is at its highest level since
the pandemic began. The E.U. is reopening to fully vaccinated visitors or those coming from
countries considered COVID-safe.
The Indy 500,
postponed to August in 2020 without spectators, is held Memorial Day with the
largest sports crowd (135,000, still well below capacity) since the pandemic
began.
Marjorie’s Fire House Artists meet in person
for the 1st time in a year in Helga's beautiful backyard; and
Marjorie’s garden is off to a beautiful start, which is as good a
way as any to bring this account full circle. Advising caution, the CDC
Director says “it’s too early to declare victory.” COVID is not going
away; it’s likely we’ll need boosters, maybe new vaccines for new variants of
the virus. Nevertheless, it seems an
appropriate time to bring this pandemic journal to an end.
Whew! A journal I thought might
cover several months has turned out to be much longer and more complex than
anticipated! My journaling magnum opus,
I suppose. We’ve lived through some interesting and strange times (the’60s, after
all!). But nothing like this. What began as annoyance turned into tragedy on a
truly global scale. The craziness of the election and its aftermath added
another layer of, what should we call it, terror or farce or both? It has
certainly been a strange and distinctive time, as we careened between pandemic
& politics. Is there a silver lining? Well, Marjorie and I had plenty of
time together, tho that seems a mixed blessing for some ˗ a poll found most women would prefer quarantining with best
friend rather than romantic partner, but Marjorie seems OK with my company. It
also gave us opportunities for local excursions to see more of the area. We certainly
missed seeing (and hugging) family as often a we’d like, tho we did learn to
Zoom and managed virtual & then socially distanced visits. Thankfully we’ve
all stayed healthy. Now we’ll see what the “new normal” will be.
The End (I hope)
(from WMHT “Roses
for Radio”) to CSSC staff (“leftovers” for us to enjoy), Marjorie cookies to
other friends. 
We help him work on some “homework” (from other grandma
Nan): “40 Old-Fashioned Skills That Kids Need To Know” ˗ he’s able to check off
“how to” make scrambled eggs, sew on a button, clean a refrigerator, pump gas, do
laundry, make a salad. 
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