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ProvGardener's RI Covid-19 Blog

 Covid-19 Info on ProvGardener

...observations as the Covid-19 pandemic develops and overtakes RI and the world.

Blog Posts

Deer-in-the-Headlights Syndrome

[I began this April 5 and last edited it April 19, and am only beginning to recover June 24 from a bad case of DITHS.]

Some of us have had a hard time ignoring the pandemic developments, a condition that could be called Deer-in-the-Headlights Syndrome (DITHS). Even if we avoid getting the actual virus, this collateral affliction is serious and needs treatment.

What are the symptoms of DITHS?

Wednesday, June 24, 2020 - 19:20

We Don't Have to Throw Momma from the Train

I haven't seen an explanation that satisfies me of what our situation is at the end of March 2020. I may have missed it; it's not possible to read everything and listen to all the reports in the media, which are overwhelmed with stories. Some articles stress parts of the following, and all of the things in this post have been said somewhere by people who know what they're talking about. However, spelling things out this way helps me get perspective. Maybe it will clarify things for others as well. 

Saturday, March 28, 2020 - 12:49

Are We There Yet?

If you're a parent and have been on a long trip with your young children, you may relate to this: you've packed the car up, belted the kids in, and left the driveway. Fifteen minutes into the 400-mile leg of a cross-country journey to Disneyland, the 8-year-old in the back seat says, "Are we there yet?" I can't help thinking of this when I watch the Coronavirus Task Force briefings through March 21st (at least to this date. This may continue indefinitely I fear).

Saturday, March 28, 2020 - 10:46

Goldilocks and the Three Governments

For now, mercifully, most people are focused on what matters, which is life -- especially saving lives of elders and healthcare workers. It's a great relief from the usual battles over who gets a political advantage over whom. We have to collaborate, support, and be thoughtful of others. This is a great opportunity to be our best selves.

However, the coronavirus crisis illustrates why one of those political tugs of war is worse than useless, and that issue is arguing over what size  our governments should be.

Tuesday, March 17, 2020 - 22:01

Back to Basics

Today, March 17, 2020, TV and online news stories overwhelm me by their sheer numbers and range of topics. I do have other stuff to do besides keep a journal, so how can this be summarized? I just can't do it, so here are a few items.

CBS This Morning - March 17, 2020 (8am-8:30 approx)

Tuesday, March 17, 2020 - 17:24

Mixed Messages: The TV Optics of Social Distancing

Expert Recommendations about Social Distancing to Slow Coronavirus Undermined by TV News Footage and Ads
 
Social distancing is our best tactic to slow the rate at which infections occur so that the hospitals and medical professionals are not overwhelmed. We can see what could happen by checking out the experience of China and Italy. Experts say that two weeks from now, without drastic action today, the U.S. could look like Italy today, with critically ill people denied care and people dying at home.

Monday, March 16, 2020 - 22:30

Why This Journal? (Renamed Blog June 24)

The other day I saw a suggestion about keeping a journal of personal experiences/observations as the Covid-19 pandemic develops and overtake the world. Good idea, I thought, so I'm starting the ProvGardener Covid-19 Journal to document this extraordinary situation from my point of view. Some posts may be about the virus in general, but I want to focus primarily on what's going on in Rhode Island. Additionally, until the federal response rises to the occasion, I'm also following and documenting what is happening (and not happening) at that level.

Monday, March 16, 2020 - 14:23