There are now 30,539,175 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the USA. There have been 553,120 deaths from the virus here as well.
VIRUS NEWS:
Though many Americans are eager to return to normal after a year of living through the COVID-19 pandemic, the head of the CDC reminded Americans that "we're not quite there yet."
Dr. Deborah Birx said that the U.S. death toll could have been much lower if the Trump Administration had acted faster. “The federal government did not provide consistent messaging to the American people and that is fault number one,” Birx said.
The virus surge in Europe is a cautionary tale for the US.
Variants:
VIRUS NEWS:
Though many Americans are eager to return to normal after a year of living through the COVID-19 pandemic, the head of the CDC reminded Americans that "we're not quite there yet."
Dr. Deborah Birx said that the U.S. death toll could have been much lower if the Trump Administration had acted faster. “The federal government did not provide consistent messaging to the American people and that is fault number one,” Birx said.
The virus surge in Europe is a cautionary tale for the US.
Variants:
'Double mutant' COVID variant has been found in India.
UK variant: Experts predicted it would become dominant in the US by March. So, is it?
New COVID-19 infections are climbing in nearly a third of all states. Health officials say the rise is in part connected to the U.K. variant.
More than 11,000 cases of a troubling variant have been reported in the US. These states have the highest numbers.
Arizona State University researchers have found a variant emerging in Arizona that they say should be monitored closely because it carries a mutation known for weakening vaccines.
Florida is the first state to cross 1,000 mark in coronavirus variant cases.
A major coronavirus variant has been found in pets for the first time.
“If we don’t stop the virus circulating, it won’t stop evolving.” COVID-19 variant rages in Brazil, posing a global risk. A rise in deaths among younger people prompts alarm over P.1 variant, present in more than 20 countries. A key scientific reality that I don’t think most people have taken seriously. If we keep screwing around with this thing instead of getting rid of it, we’re gonna be doing this a long time.
Thousands of cases of the B.1.1.7 variant have been reported across the US, and experts fear the strain may fuel another COVID-19 surge as states race to vaccinate more residents.
“If we don’t stop the virus circulating, it won’t stop evolving.” COVID-19 variant rages in Brazil, posing a global risk. A rise in deaths among younger people prompts alarm over P.1 variant, present in more than 20 countries. A key scientific reality that I don’t think most people have taken seriously. If we keep screwing around with this thing instead of getting rid of it, we’re gonna be doing this a long time.
Thousands of cases of the B.1.1.7 variant have been reported across the US, and experts fear the strain may fuel another COVID-19 surge as states race to vaccinate more residents.
Your immune system evolves to fight the coronavirus variants. Antibodies can change to counter new forms of the shape-shifting virus, research hints at.
Vaccines:
AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson: Breaking down the differences between coronavirus vaccines.
AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson: Breaking down the differences between coronavirus vaccines.
Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine found to be highly effective for adolescents.
Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine protection lasts at least six months. Further results from ongoing trials also show that the vaccine fully protects recipients from the variant first detected in South Africa.
The reputation of AstraZeneca's COVID vaccine has been marred by missteps.
The reputation of AstraZeneca's COVID vaccine has been marred by missteps.
AstraZeneca: A German team discovered the vaccine's thrombosis trigger.
Scientists are planning to test the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID vaccine as a nasal spray.
The FDA has allowed Moderna to put more coronavirus vaccine doses in each vial.
How long after the second dose of the COVID vaccine is it effective?
Johnson & Johnson says that a contractor botched part of its vaccine production, ruining 15 million batches.
The Chinese coronavirus vaccines’ efficacy data ‘meets the World Health Organization's requirements.’
Vaccine studies are expanding. That’s good news for children, pregnant women and those over 65.
A study says the COVID-19 vaccines provide protection for pregnant and lactating women -- and their newborns.
Hang on to that COVID-19 vaccination card -- it's important.
US workers are being enticed with bonuses and time off to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Hang on to that COVID-19 vaccination card -- it's important.
US workers are being enticed with bonuses and time off to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
Far-right extremists move from ‘stop the steal’ to stop the vaccine.
Christian nationalism is a barrier to mass vaccination against COVID-19.
Representative-elect Julia Letlow urges fellow Republicans to get the COVID vaccine after her husband's death.
Evangelicals seemingly lost their minds after Franklin Graham said Jesus would have taken the vaccine.
Evangelicals seemingly lost their minds after Franklin Graham said Jesus would have taken the vaccine.
Despite a massive effort by the Pentagon to promote the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines, the US military's opt-out rate for vaccinations may be far higher than the 33% figure defense officials have used publicly.
A flash mob for the COVID-19 vaccine? Hundreds line up, sans dancing, to nab soon-to-expire doses.
"Some countries are racing to vaccinate their entire populations, while other countries have nothing." The World Health Organization has slammed the 'grotesque' vaccine gap. Many low-income countries have yet to receive a single vaccine dose, while vaccination programs to combat COVID race ahead elsewhere.
Can I still transmit coronavirus after getting COVID vaccine?
Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines may block infection as well as disease.
COVID: Will your pet need a coronavirus vaccine?
Masks:
A “bearded white male” who was “belligerent” about not wearing a mask— stabbed a restaurant manager several times after he was asked to wear a mask. The incident occurred at a Jack in the Box in League City, Texas.
Just because you've gotten a COVID-19 vaccine doesn't mean you should rip off your mask immediately. That could actually set you back and put your friends and family at risk. Here's why you should keep masking up in many cases.
Dr. Sanjay Gupta blasted Senator Cruz for stating he doesn’t need a mask due to vaccinations.
Rand Paul says a “Karen” harassed him at a gym for not wearing a mask. (He was maskless? He sounds like he was a "Ken" in this situation.)
A ‘Million Maskless March’ and a mass mask burning are planned in Florida.
Dr. Fauci laid out a scenario for when experts could loosen face mask recommendations, but US COVID cases are still way too high.
Politics:
President Biden's approval rating on COVID-19 has reached 72 percent.
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador thanked President Biden for supplying COVID-19 vaccines, easing the country's shortage.
Many world leaders call for a treaty on future pandemics.
The IRS says that COVID face masks and hand sanitizer are now tax deductible.
Marjorie Taylor Greene got slammed for claiming that working out is her ‘COVID protection.’ Twitter users exercised their right to mock the Georgia Republican after she posted a video of herself doing a CrossFit-style workout (that is utterly bizarre-o).
What the COVID-19 war was really like in Trump's White House.
The former CDC director says Secretary Alex Azar pressured them to falsify COVID-19 data that doctors needed.
Jared Kushner suggested that deferring action on reopening to the governors was a political calculation — a successful reopening could be credited to the president, but any failure would be blamed on the governors instead.
Trump brutally lashed out at Dr. Fauci and Dr. Birx after a CNN special, then claimed he ‘saved the entire world.’
Healthcare:
Bernie Sanders backs COVID nurses who are prepared to strike for humane working conditions. The Vermont senator’s championship of a Wisconsin health care union’s demand for a contract respecting work-life balance signals a new era of labor solidarity.
Paris doctors warn of catastrophic overload of virus cases.
True Stories:
How UCSF Fresno saved a COVID patient's life.
A Texas mother died after her entire family of 7, including her newborn baby, contracted COVID.
Medical students administered the COVID-19 vaccine to the homeless in downtown Phoenix, Arizona.
An Italian autopsy confirmed the first coronavirus-related death of a US airman, 36, in Europe.
A 24-year-old with COVID-19 is recovering after a double lung and kidney transplant: 'Fewer than 100 cases.'
The first baby in the U.S. was born with antibodies against COVID-19 after mom received a dose of the Moderna vaccine while pregnant.
COVID-19 cuties: The ultimate testing site love story.
Travel:
COVID passports: What are different countries planning?
Why vaccine passports may be inevitable in the next phase of COVID-19.
Business class and bureaucracy hell: Surviving global travel during COVID.
American Airlines has introduced more quarantine-free travel and pre-flight COVID-19 testing options.
Thailand is opening the resort island of Phuket for vaccinated tourists without quarantine.
Universal Studios, Hollywood reopens April 16.
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk reopened its rides.
In a March 25 press conference, New York City's Mayor De Blasio affirmed that the city is committed to having Broadway return by fall, and announced a COVID-19 vaccination site in the theatre district, staffed in part by theatre workers, for members of the industry.
More Florida Scandal:
Florida likely has 14,000 more COVID-19 deaths then previously reported, says a new study.
After spring break, the coronavirus cases appear to surge in young Floridians.
Florida released COVID variant data after the Orlando Sentinel sued Governor DeSantis to get it.
Misc:
Biden launches community coalitions to boost COVID vaccinations.
Biden launches community coalitions to boost COVID vaccinations.
Three reasons why confirmed coronavirus cases are on the rise again.
New simulations show how Donald Trump let hundreds of thousands of Americans die of COVID-19.
Americans think the U.S. government's pandemic response is getting better -- and it is.
Americans think the U.S. government's pandemic response is getting better -- and it is.
Dr. Fauci warned why the current phase of the pandemic is ‘not a good place to be.’
Not only does uncontrolled spread of COVID cause avoidable illness, hospitalization and death, but it increases the risk that an even more dangerous variant may emerge that could make vaccines less effective.
Not only does uncontrolled spread of COVID cause avoidable illness, hospitalization and death, but it increases the risk that an even more dangerous variant may emerge that could make vaccines less effective.
A new study found that increased vitamin D levels were associated with a lower risk of COVID positivity in Black participants.
Low-dose aspirin may help protect the lungs and reduce the need to put patients on ventilators, researchers reported last week.
7 in 10 people hospitalized for COVID-19 have not fully recovered five months after discharge, a new study says.
More than a million 'had long COVID in February.'
Organ issues have been linked with 'long COVID-19.'
COVID-19 has been linked to tinnitus, hearing loss, and vertigo.
Why your blood type may matter in a COVID infection.
The FDA has approved two more over-the-counter coronavirus home tests.
Dr. Birx shared her chilling conclusion as America arrived at a moment of introspection on the coronavirus.
Dr. Birx recalled a 'very difficult' phone call from Trump following her COVID-19 warnings.
Dr. Fauci named the Trump moment that shocked him ‘like a punch to the chest.’
A Michigan pizzeria owner was taken into custody after she "continued to willfully violate the state's food laws, public health orders and a court-ordered Temporary Restraining Order" related to COVID-19 measures, according to the state's attorney general.
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy found out he had COVID-19 and he never knew it.
Sarah Palin encourages mask wearing after revealing COVID-19 diagnosis.
Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago was partially closed due to a COVID outbreak recently. The resort closed its dining room and suspended beach club services to guests due to an outbreak among "some" staff.
How to manage your pandemic debt.
Nearly 500 Americans have been charged in $569 million dollars worth of COVID fraud schemes.
The IRS announced its dispersal of a third batch of payments from the latest COVID-19 relief package with billions of dollars in direct money going to millions of Americans.
Americans' view on the economy rises after the coronavirus relief law.
According to Fox News, restaurants are now struggling to find employees despite declining COVID cases. Of course the "news" station had to add that some owners of eateries claim stimulus checks remove incentive to work. (As if anyone could retire on $1,400. Ha!)
The coronavirus pandemic slowdown has made the oceans quieter, which has been good for whales. Not only has pandemic helped accelerate the end of commercial whale hunting, ambient noise in the world’s oceans is also way down.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, who has served under seven US presidents and has guided the national response to COVID-19, will soon be immortalized in a children's book.
Facebook built the perfect platform for COVID vaccine conspiracies. Mark Zuckerberg wanted to make his social network a reliable source about the pandemic. Instead he’s helped spread misinformation about vaccines causing infertility.
Here are four takeaways from the WHO’s report on the origins of the coronavirus. The leading hypothesis is it spread to people from bats via a yet-to-be-identified animal.
The theory that COVID came from a Chinese lab has taken on a new life in the wake of the WHO's report.
The WHO's 'not credible' coronavirus report angers scientists and politicians alike, with critics saying there were many stones left unturned..
Could an accident have caused COVID-19? Why the Wuhan lab-leak theory shouldn't be dismissed.
What happened in Wuhan? Why questions still linger on the origin of the coronavirus.
GLOBAL:
There have been 129,607,121 confirmed cases of the virus around the world. There have been 2,827,504 deaths from the virus globally.
There have been 129,607,121 confirmed cases of the virus around the world. There have been 2,827,504 deaths from the virus globally.
The pandemic is stirring deep resentments in Europe. They may not be quick to heal.
Pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson says it will supply 200 million coronavirus vaccines to Europe, including Norway and Iceland, in the second half of April.
The European Union has proposed to impose vaccine controls after a 'raid' on an Italian factory uncovered millions of the AstraZeneca vaccine doses.
The European Union has proposed to impose vaccine controls after a 'raid' on an Italian factory uncovered millions of the AstraZeneca vaccine doses.
France has closed schools nationwide and banned domestic travel as the coronavirus surges: ‘The epidemic is accelerating.’
India has launched its biggest vaccination drive yet against a surging coronavirus.
Bangladesh is seeing record high daily coronavirus cases amid a surge. Its government announced a series of new restrictions to stem the spread of the virus, including a ban on some air travelers.
Mexico's government acknowledged in a quietly released report that the country's true death toll from the coronavirus pandemic now stands above 321,000. That is almost 60% more than Mexico’s official test-confirmed number COVID-19 cases.
Chile has hit 1 million COVID cases and slammed its borders closed.
The Brazillian federal government signed contracts with Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson for vaccines. CNN had access to documents that provide for delivery of 138 million doses from the second quarter; costs reach $ 1.38 billion. (Link may be in Portuguese.)
Australia is considering diverting its COVID-19 vaccines to Papua New Guinea as 'disaster' looms.
The Brazillian federal government signed contracts with Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson for vaccines. CNN had access to documents that provide for delivery of 138 million doses from the second quarter; costs reach $ 1.38 billion. (Link may be in Portuguese.)
Australia is considering diverting its COVID-19 vaccines to Papua New Guinea as 'disaster' looms.
Australia fell 85% short of its vaccine delivery goal, 3.4 million doses short of its target of delivering 4 million COVID vaccinations by March 31st. Last week the government said the vaccine rollout did not demand urgency given Australia's low infection rates.
STATES:
283 new coronavirus cases reported in Maine yesterday.
283 new coronavirus cases reported in Maine yesterday.
Town leaders have linked COVID-19 case rises to economic factors as cases and hospitalizations continue to go up in New Hampshire.
There were 6,790 new cases and 69 new deaths reported in Florida yesterday.
New York is under fire for vaccinating prison staff, but not the inmates.
New Jersey's COVID surge is worsening, but the government says no extra vaccines are heading its way. If it gets really bad, "we're in for a long, hot summer," Governor Phil Murphy warned.
There were 6,790 new cases and 69 new deaths reported in Florida yesterday.
Pennsylvania’s next COVID-19 vaccine crisis may involve a lack of people who want vaccine rather than lack of vaccine.
Indiana's vaccine rollout continues with a 16-day mass vaccination clinic.
Wisconsin reported of 517 new cases yesterday as active COVID-19 cases continue to rise.
Chicago is seeing a ‘quantum leap' in new cases. Illinois reported 3,526 new COVID cases and 25 deaths, with the biggest upsurge happening in the windy city. The mayor of Chicago defied the governor and is refusing to open the COVID-19 vaccine to all due to the uptick in cases in her city. The rest of Illinois will open the vaccine to all on April 12.
Chicago is seeing a ‘quantum leap' in new cases. Illinois reported 3,526 new COVID cases and 25 deaths, with the biggest upsurge happening in the windy city. The mayor of Chicago defied the governor and is refusing to open the COVID-19 vaccine to all due to the uptick in cases in her city. The rest of Illinois will open the vaccine to all on April 12.
Minnesota had 2,140 new cases and 12 deaths posted Thursday.
Iowa pharmacies are bracing for the COVID-19 vaccine eligibility expansion.
Iowa pharmacies are bracing for the COVID-19 vaccine eligibility expansion.
The Louisiana Department of Health reported 334 more confirmed coronavirus cases and 15 more confirmed deaths yesterday.
Governor Spencer Cox on Thursday announced that, for the first time, Utah has no counties at a high transmission rate. More than half a million Utahns are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Three more Utahns have died as the result of the coronavirus.
Governor Spencer Cox on Thursday announced that, for the first time, Utah has no counties at a high transmission rate. More than half a million Utahns are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Three more Utahns have died as the result of the coronavirus.
Yesterday, there were 361 new COVID-19 cases and 1 new death in Idaho.
Washington state will expand COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to ages 16 and over on April 15.
Washington state will expand COVID-19 vaccine eligibility to ages 16 and over on April 15.
Oregon reported 521 cases and 2 deaths yesterday as hospitalizations rose to their highest in more than a month.
Hawaii's Governor Ige warned that the island state could go back to Tier 2 if the current escalating coronavirus case trend continues
CALIFORNIA:
Could California see a fourth surge of COVID-19 cases?
Could California see a fourth surge of COVID-19 cases?
California has given over 18 million vaccine doses.
California has expanded the coronavirus vaccinations to anyone 50 and older.
California plans to open vaccinations up to everyone 16 and older in mid-April.
A weekly COVID-19 vaccination center has been established in South Sacramento.
A weekly COVID-19 vaccination center has been established in South Sacramento.
A COVID-19 drive-through vaccination clinic has opened in Concord.
Governor Newsom got the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine yesterday.
California released guidance to hold graduation ceremonies.
California released guidance to hold graduation ceremonies.
Los Angeles and Orange counties are eligible to advance into the orange tier, letting restaurants, churches and movie theaters expand capacity.
Orange County is now in the orange tier - so what's changed?
Orange County is now in the orange tier - so what's changed?
LOCAL:
Is your family member eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine? You can get a dose too in Fresno County. If you are not older than 50 and don't yet qualify in any of the other tiers, you can still get your vaccine in Fresno County if you have an immediate family member who qualifies.
The UK coronavirus variant has been confirmed in Madera County, health officials say.
Kaweah Delta Hospital officials say they're excited about extending the visiting policies to allow for more support for patients while recovering.
Fresno County ramping up resources as vaccine eligibility expands.
A new COVID-19 vaccination site has opened at Fresno City College.
An agricultural company coordinated vaccinations for 2,100 workers and community members.
A local organization has been working nonstop since February, hoping to bridge the gap and help those in small communities access the vaccine.
More than 900 food and agriculture workers were vaccinated in Selma.
Fresno leaders are planning to start discussing how the city's COVID relief money will be spent. The city of Fresno is set to receive $177 million from the American Rescue Plan.
Valley school districts are encouraging a safe spring break to avoid COVID setbacks.
Central Unified to welcome back secondary students the week of April 19th.
State lawmakers are banding together to demand an investigation into the Fresno County Health Department and Foster Farms following COVID deaths.
State lawmakers are banding together to demand an investigation into the Fresno County Health Department and Foster Farms following COVID deaths.
Maya Cinemas will be reopening today.
Galaxy Theatres in Tulare reopened last Friday.
Cinemark Movies 8 in Hanford reopens today.
Restaurants in Fresno and Clovis can open for indoor dining.
Fresno's Forestiere Underground Gardens has reopened.
107th Clovis Rodeo to be held in-person with some changes. The rodeo is scheduled to run from Wednesday, April 21 through Sunday, April 25.
With the fate of the Big Fresno Fair undecided (I think it will open...), the fairgrounds are once again hosting Drive-Thru Eats April 14-18:
Political ads:
My former co-worker Karen posted a startling note about she and her husband getting COVID. I asked if I could share it and she agreed:
"A lot of people have asked about mine and Richard’s COVID infection, so I thought I’d fill you in here," she said. "Richard contracted the virus while on a business trip. He was notified that one of the people on the trip tested positive and he started having symptoms the next day -- fatigue. On Saturday, 3/20, we both were tested; Richard was positive while I was negative. I was asked by employee health to test on the 22nd and I was positive. I’ve had both vaccines and was 14 days out from #2 when Richard started having symptoms. Come to find out, through a trial at Johns Hopkins in which I’m participating, I did not develop any antibodies from my vaccines. Because of the immunosuppressive medications I take to keep my body from rejecting my kidney transplant, my body’s immune system is suppressed and therefore I did not develop antibodies from the vaccines I received. Richard and I both had a monoclonal antibody infusion, he on Tuesday and me today, that will hopefully help reduce our symptoms and the duration of our illness. We are both fatigued, have an occasional productive cough, & body aches. In addition, Richard has GI issues, loss of taste, fever and night sweats. I have transient headaches, sinus pressure, and a sore throat. Richard has lost 10lbs while I remain the same. Hopefully we’ll feel better soon with the infusion on board. Thank you to all who have shown concern. We really appreciate it. Thank you for your offers of help."
Karen added this update:
"Although we still have symptoms, we have had a few more moments of energy. For instance, we were able to get out of the hot tub before the pool guy got here."
A few days later, Karen sent me this update:
"We’re feeling much better," she says. "For the last two days we’ve been able to get things done around the house. Richard has more energy than me, but that’s nothing new. We’ve been able to get all we need by ordering groceries online. It’s a pretty nifty way to shop. Richard is free to be out and about on Tuesday and I’m free to return to work on Sunday. The caveat is that Employee Health has to okay it, so I’m hoping that means I won’t have to return until Tuesday."
My friend Linda in Castro Valley, who I know from my brief stint at the San Leandro Times ages ago, sent me a quick note and photo:
"A friend in San Francisco saw this sign outside her branch library today -- where several coyotes have recently been sighted," she said. "Keep 3 sourdough baguettes or 6 LP records or 2 adult coyotes apart!
I assume this is a recent sign. Someone is making lemonade out of lemons."
My former boss at the hospital, Jacque, sent me a quick text:
"Good morning," she said. "I am trying to finish up the program evaluation and am reviewing patient surveys. Here's a quote: 'Shawn was a great nurse, great jokes.' "
Mikey in Iowa sent an email with photos recently:
"We're just out here in the boonies stressing about going into town to get groceries and prescriptions," he said. "Things here are ok so far.
"The cat population growth is slowing a bit due to the amount of cats we were able to catch and get spayed/neutered. The vet is about a month behind, so we have to get the appointment, and then, right before the appointment, we have to try to catch one. So far we have had 9 cats spayed/neutered! One, however, is very pregnant. Soon we will have another litter to deal with. I think people just dump their unwanted pets off at the end of the road near us and they find their way to our house.
"I am really bad at remembering to take pictures of events around here, but I was going through my phone and found a few I can send. One is me with my new toy...a mechanical slot machine! I've always wanted one of these. Now all I need to do is get really lucky. I could win so much money! LOL!
"I am sending a few pictures from around here. Look how old I look.
"We haven't gotten our vaccines yet, but I am in no hurry. I will wait for the Johnson and Johnson vaccine. We are now 'double masking' when we go out due to the variants out there."
My friend Rosa is currently in Spain with her family while caring for her mother. At the beginning of last month, you may remember she informed me that she and her family had come down with COVID. I finally got an update:
"My mother is back - but her Alzheimer’s has deteriorated," she said. "She's COVID free though. I still need oxygen but I’m feeling much, much better and hoping to get back to normal soon. I think I can say I survived COVID! I even bought myself a poster to celebrate. Very sorry I worried you- I was feeling overwhelmed with COVID. We are all negative now after one month. It's been a long journey."
After reading that Rosa was on oxygen, I contacted her a few days later to check on her and see how she was doing. I got this reply:
"Much better- recovered - but my mother has gone from phase 5 Alzheimer’s to phase 8," she said. "She is in bed, won’t move, won’t open her eyes, won’t eat, won’t do anything -- just sleeping. You know what I mean. She was in the last stage already, but walking and eating by herself-- and COVID just accelerated her deterioration. All is well. We are all very close. We are recruiting an army of nurses and sorting out daily care."
"Ugh, trying to find a landscaper at this time of year is just frustrating," he said. "They're all busy. I called 5 more landscaping outfits- either leaving a message or not answering. I finally got ahold of one company who unfortunately is extremely busy, but at least talked to me. She just said and confirmed what I was thinking - they're all very busy, especially with people staying home during COVID and because my yard is small they don't make as much money as off of a bigger project. So frustrating. She said it may be until late fall before anyone is going to tackle this project. Another summer of a dead lawn. I do have one guy (keeping my fingers crossed) coming by this afternoon. Won't hold my breath."
The guy that was coming did take on the project. Most of it I heard about via telephone, with occasional texted snippets:
"Too bad you're not up here with me rock hunting/shopping," he said. "You're missing out on all the excitement."
And later:
"Got my crack filled - the crack where the brick planter meets the stucco. Going back out to amend the soil in the brick planter so I can plant some 'purty' flowers."
Finally, he sent some photos of the near-completed project:
"I'm pretty satisfied," he said. "They still have some finish work to complete next week, but basically done. The flower pots indicate where the new square planters will go. I'll try to pick them up this weekend. I still have to find some plants to go in the brick planter box in front of the pictures window. I really like the planter box after they removed the old shrubs - adds character to a rather boring house."
My acquaintance Guillaume (or "Bill") from Paris checked in:
"I'm good and the family, too," he said. "Paris is not really locked down. but there is a curfew from 7pm to 6am. Restaurants, museums, and cinemas are still closed. Malls larger than 10,000 square metres are closed, too. Some shops are open (essential goods), some are closed (non-essential goods). Luckily, books and records are considered essential this time.
"Now, if you want to go out for outside activities, you can do it with no limit of time outside of the curfew hours and you just need your ID. If you need to go out for another reason, you need to fill out an authorization.
"I have not been vaccinated so fat. I am not in the priority groups so far. But rumor has it that teachers should access vaccination by May.
"Schools remain open, but with half jauge, which means half the students one day and the other half the next day and so and so. That is until Easter break, which will be 3.5 weeks. Then we'll see..."
He later wrote back and clarified the lockdown after it spread to the whole country:
"It's an expansion," he said. "Now all of the country is under curfew between 7pm. and 6am. But we can still go out within a 10km circle. And some essential shops remain open.
"The new difference is that now schools are closed for a week with distant work to be done. Then it's a 2-week holiday for everyone. The back to school for kids and another week of distant work for students. And then, well... we'll see."
Christa, who lives in Santa Monica, sent me an early birthday (and Easter, and spring) present and card. THANK YOU, Christa!
Art, who lives in Florida but will soon be moving back to Massachusetts, sent a brief not and an article link (which is posted somewhere above):
"I have an aunt who somehow has reactions to any kind of vaccination (no lie)," he said. "She's passing on the vaccine, hoping for herd immunity, and tells us she's type O blood and less likely to get sick. I respect her too much to debate it, but I did find an article."
Kindra, a former co-worker who started not long before I left, sent me an Easter card and chocolate bunny. How sweet. THANK YOU!
My friend Sue in Agoura, California sent this note:
"John and I were scheduled for our vaccines a couple of weeks ago," she said. "Then I cancelled, because I wanted to wait until our daughter returns. She’s been in Quebec for 4 months. Once she’s back we’ll all get vaccinated. She returns April 5th.
"Meanwhile we’re staying in, masking when we walk in Malibu Creek State Park and Trader Joe’s for once a week shopping. So far so good!"
My friend John in Frazier Park, California sent me some tiki shot glasses for my birthday. They are kind of hard to see. The one on the left is face forward. The right is a profile. THANK YOU, John!
I had a super quick note from Kim in New London, Wisconsin:
"Everything is good here," she said. "I have Easter off, so I am excited. I am off to work. Hopefully, it will be a peaceful day."
My friend Angel in Colombia sent a note with great news:
"Look," he said. "Today they gave me the visa...finally. So much that I paid and suffered. In a year I will be able to have Colombian nationality. I am legally in Colombia now. I've been working hard."
Just minutes before I was ready to post this, I remembered to get my mail...and found a birthday card from David and Pablo in Australia:
"Happy birthday 2021," they said. "We hope this card makes it to you in time.
"Well, finally the borders between states opened up, so Pablo & I leave tomorrow for a last-minute road trip. It's Sydney this Saturday (March 6). That should be a fun few days. It's about a 9 1/2 hour drive to get to Sydney from Melbourne via the inland route and 12 1/2 via the coast. We might do each way there and back to keep it interesting.. Wish us luck. (It will have been done and dusted by the time you get this card.)"
SHIRLEY:
I am getting worried about my Shirley girly. I know it takes her a while to get going in the spring after she wakes up, but she is still not eating yet. I've just seen her munching on a few blades of grass and a dandelion stalk. That's it. I've been feeding her--but she doesn't eat. I looked up tortoise diets and saw that I've been a b-a-a-a-d tortoise daddy. She's always been picky, but for years I've been giving her Romaine lettuce and peas--with the occasional strawberry or apple, etc. She would eat the lettuce and peas. Well, come to find out, those are a big no-no. The lettuce was okay--but her diet should not be mostly that as there is very little nutritional value in it. The peas. because of their sugar/carb content, should only be used as occasional treat--not every day feedings. Ugh...I've been malnourishing her all of this time! I hope she will be okay. I bought her arugula and some dandelion greens. I've been grating bits of carrot for her. But she still won't eat.
Maybe she is still just waking up? She ventured to the back of the house for the first time this year on Saturday---the farthest out she's gone yet.
Of course, exploring that far coupled with not eating and old age can leave her pretty tuckered out. In fact, when I brought her in, she collapsed at the corner of her house and went to sleep. Ha!
Shirley is fully awake now. She's been out sitting in the sun as much as possible.
For some reason, I have lately been obsessed with Jack In The Box's tacos. They are cheap (two for $1.25) and tasty---and lately I've just been craving them. I had to go sign my tax returns at the tax lady's office across town on the 19th. There is a Jack In The Box right near her office. In fact, I had gotten some tacos there a few days before when I'd had my taxes done and was looking forward to a return visit after signing my returns.
After leaving the tax lady, I headed right there...but there was a huge line in the drive thru that stretched out to the street. Yikes! I changed course and kept on going.
I realized that there was a Taco Bell just a little further down and on the opposite side of the street. They wouldn't be Jack In The Box tacos, but I could still pick up a couple of tacos and an iced tea. I headed there.
The girl in the car ahead of me took forever to order. I think she must have known the person taking orders and was having a full on conversation with her. Anyway, when it was time for me to order, I noticed some new item they were promoting. I'm no fan of the gorditas. They are too greasy for my taste. However, this new thing was a quesodita--a gordita with cheese inside of the taco shell somehow. Sucker for gimmicks that I am, I thought I'd order won. Did I want it as a combo? Hmm. The combo came with two tacos and a large drink--what I had been after originally. Sure, I said. I'll take the combo.
When I got to the window, I paid, was given my drink, and was eventually handed a bag that was sealed closed with a sticker. Once I navigated the parking lot and got myself out on the street again, I undid the bag, reached in and grabbed something to eat.
I was nearly finished with the burrito I was munching on, when I realized that I had not ordered a burrito. In fact, as I investigated my bag, while my quesodita and tacos were in it, there were also two tiny chicken and cheese taco things and another burrito. Zowie!
I was already pretty far from Taco Bell and knew they could not take returned food. I thought of all of the times I'd had food orders that were missing things, so I took these bonus items gratefully. They supplied lunch as well as dinner and breakfast the next day. Ha!
With my upcoming move to Washington in October, I've been going through my crap...er, valuable objects d'art and getting rid of stuff. I have so much to get through. Ugh!
Not long after I sat in the post-shot waiting area (to see if I'd have a reaction), this guy came along cleaning the seats. I was a bit annoyed, thinking I'd probably sat down in someone else's cooties. But hello? I was fully vaccinated. Whoo hoo!
I later got this email announcement congratulating me for getting both does of the vaccine. Hooray!
I had received a message from an old friend I hadn't talked to in years. Chris just wanted to know if I was "still alive." I wrote him back and told him I literally had a disease. He wrote back and wanted the details. I wrote back and told him the story. I also asked for his address. Years ago, in the late 80s, I went on my first cruise as a graduation present from my mom. Chris and I got him a ticket to go with me. That cruise provided probably my best stories to tell ever. (I really should blog those some day...) One of those tales involved TV star Greg Evigan (BJ AND THE BEAR, MY TWO DADS, MELROSE PLACE, etc.). Several years ago, I "met" Evigan at a (has-been? used?) celebrity show. I would normally not have bothered, but as Mr. Evigan had played a part in
our cruise adventures, I got an autographed photo for myself and another for Chris. I wanted to finally send it to him.
Chris, who recently got Social Security disability, wanted to chat on a Zoom-like call. He offered to help me through the hurdles of getting Social Security as well.
I'm not sure what exactly happened, but one evening I was working on my computer. I heard some strange sounds. At first I was worried it might be Shirley, in her box, in some form of distress. I ran out of the office to see what was wrong...but the sounds were clearly shouting coming from the street. I peeked out. There was a white car (with its driver-side door open), an ambulance, and a police car. I couldn't see what was happening as everything was occurring on the other side of the ambulance. Some guy was shouting that they were hurting him, that this was a false arrest. He then said he wasn't drunk and to let him get in his car and drive away. I'm guessing it was a drunk driver. But why was the ambulance there? Such drama for my usually quiet neighborhood. And also, if you didn't notice, what do you not see in the picture? The next door neighbor's big ass trailer that has been parked in front of my house for months. Earlier in the week, it magically disappeared. Finally! I am guessing they got a notice from the city about it. If they did, I am sure they blame me for it. I had nothing to do with it---but I am glad it is gone at last.
A big highlight for me over the last two weeks was that Nancy Sinatra (YES! Nancy "THESE BOOTS ARE MADE FOR WALKING" Sinatra!) decided (for whatever wonderful reason) to follow me on Twitter. How exciting!
Yesterday was April Fool's Day. It was also National Burrito Day, apparently. I wasn't going to, but a junk email from IHOP about their breakfast burritos called to me. (That, and the fact they were doing National Pancake Day ALL MONTH LONG--i.e. free pancakes!) got me there. I was amazed at the number of people there, like this bunch waiting to be seated in one of the tents in the parking lot. Really?
That's it for this time. Between now and the 16th when we next meet, Easter will have happened, my next series of IVIG treatments will have been given (ugh!), and I'll have had my birthday. I am hoping my birthday is largely ignored this year. I can't afford the calories from food gifts and I am packing to move, so I don't really need any physical gifts this year either. Instead, I hope all of my well wishers treat themselves to something special. That's what I really want for my birthday this year--for YOU to ENJOY yourself.
Stay SAFE! Stay HEALTHY! Stay ALIVE!
CHEERS!
Stay SAFE! Stay HEALTHY! Stay ALIVE!
CHEERS!
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