Some states are re-opening far too soon. The efforts undertaken by most of society to prevent further spread of the disease (covid-19) caused by the virus (CoV-2) are having an effect. The number of new cases each day is not increasing as fast as it was. It's not going down in many places, but at least it's not increasing as fast. Opening too soon may well set us all back to the beginning stages of this pandemic. How dire can the need for a haircut possibly be? Listen to the scientists; stay home. Mrs. Betty Bowers, America's Best Christian, has more on this concept.
In spite of federal claims to the contrary, states do not have test kits, and the supplies and personnel to perform them, and the labs to process them. A shortage in any of these areas means testing cannot be completed. States do not have the data to make intelligent choices regarding proactive measures to prevent spread of any outbreaks that may occur. States do not have data to know when it is actually safe to re-open businesses in their areas. The federal government refuses to take an active role in the acquisition and distribution of critical supplies to the states to get the country moving again. The states are left to bid against each other in an open market free-for-all (except none of the supplies or services are free). The federal government must step forward and defend the nation against this threat. Throwing individual states into competition with each other, failing to financially support the states' ability to address the threat to all Americans, failing to provide for the common defense of all, defeats the purpose of having a united republic.
As we stay home and leave the streets free for essential workers, we can still support our local businesses. Make each trip to the grocer or pharmacy count. Buy enough for a week, maybe two weeks. No need to hoard items. The shelves are being restocked regularly. No need to make daily trips either. Buy enough to last you several days at a time. Offer to pick up some items for a neighbor.
Buy gift certificates -- it helps the business now and gives you something to look forward to. This can work with hair care, nail salons, and similar. If you have a private barber or hair dresser, pay for a couple sessions in advance. You can schedule the visit(s) once you both feel comfortable again. Same applies to a housekeeper or gardener you regularly have visit.
Check with the florist, the baker, the craft store. They may have curb-side pick up. They may have expanded their service or product offerings to meet new demands.
Order food for "to-go" service; your favorite restaurant may not be closed. If you opt for delivery, be sure to tip the delivery person extra well. Spread the word on social media and/or around your neighbors.
Some of these ideas from discussions [among friends, family, and neighbors], thoughts, and articles including https://www.businessinsider.com/ways-help-support-local-businesses-according-to-owners#1-buy-gift-certificates-1, https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/life-strategies/support-small-business-coronavirus (this one annoying ads, but good info), and https://www.marketwatch.com/story/10-ways-to-support-struggling-local-businesses-during-the-pandemic-2020-03-18.
I've written a few previous blogs on adjusting outlook, and things to do to help overcome "cabin fever". Also consider: https://www.citylab.com/life/2020/04/social-isolation-hygge-home-mental-health-simple-pleasures/610324/ for a possibly different outlook on comfort amid isolation. They have it all winter long.
In spite of federal claims to the contrary, states do not have test kits, and the supplies and personnel to perform them, and the labs to process them. A shortage in any of these areas means testing cannot be completed. States do not have the data to make intelligent choices regarding proactive measures to prevent spread of any outbreaks that may occur. States do not have data to know when it is actually safe to re-open businesses in their areas. The federal government refuses to take an active role in the acquisition and distribution of critical supplies to the states to get the country moving again. The states are left to bid against each other in an open market free-for-all (except none of the supplies or services are free). The federal government must step forward and defend the nation against this threat. Throwing individual states into competition with each other, failing to financially support the states' ability to address the threat to all Americans, failing to provide for the common defense of all, defeats the purpose of having a united republic.
As we stay home and leave the streets free for essential workers, we can still support our local businesses. Make each trip to the grocer or pharmacy count. Buy enough for a week, maybe two weeks. No need to hoard items. The shelves are being restocked regularly. No need to make daily trips either. Buy enough to last you several days at a time. Offer to pick up some items for a neighbor.
Buy gift certificates -- it helps the business now and gives you something to look forward to. This can work with hair care, nail salons, and similar. If you have a private barber or hair dresser, pay for a couple sessions in advance. You can schedule the visit(s) once you both feel comfortable again. Same applies to a housekeeper or gardener you regularly have visit.
Check with the florist, the baker, the craft store. They may have curb-side pick up. They may have expanded their service or product offerings to meet new demands.
Order food for "to-go" service; your favorite restaurant may not be closed. If you opt for delivery, be sure to tip the delivery person extra well. Spread the word on social media and/or around your neighbors.
Some of these ideas from discussions [among friends, family, and neighbors], thoughts, and articles including https://www.businessinsider.com/ways-help-support-local-businesses-according-to-owners#1-buy-gift-certificates-1, https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/life-strategies/support-small-business-coronavirus (this one annoying ads, but good info), and https://www.marketwatch.com/story/10-ways-to-support-struggling-local-businesses-during-the-pandemic-2020-03-18.
I've written a few previous blogs on adjusting outlook, and things to do to help overcome "cabin fever". Also consider: https://www.citylab.com/life/2020/04/social-isolation-hygge-home-mental-health-simple-pleasures/610324/ for a possibly different outlook on comfort amid isolation. They have it all winter long.
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