For the first time since the virus began the US has reported 500k cases in a single week. This does not look good for the upcoming cold and flu season which isn’t even fully underway.
Chicago will ban indoor dining for all restaurants in that city.
I’ve been catching up on the past couple days here – a few thoughts –
Joshua’s comments re: Tuesday literally had me in the fetal position with fear. I really wish they’d forget the sexy and go with the conservative approach bc so much relies on this election.
Tk – I love and appreciate your comments! I will definitely “do me” and right now – for the first time ever – doing me necessitates me being loud and proud for Biden. This is due to the fact that I personally believe that if we as a country fail to evolve and we instead re-elect Trump that will signify the true beginning of the end and deterioration of this first-of-its-kind democratic “experiment.” As I believe so strongly in my country I feel compelled to do everything I can to preserve and protect it – even from itself.
I find this current GOP movement to be a great analogy for the literal definition of irony. Because I perceive that in a desperate attempt to preserve/conserve the US as they knew it in 1950 the GOP will, in fact, destroy the US itself.
Fear driven action is never, ever the right approach. I feel that Trump is a bully and represents the old and dying establishment and way of doing things. This group over time has actually become the minority but they are desperate to retain control thus the bullying and fear based tactics. However if they do retain control our country will begin to decay/disintegrate.
It’s interesting because this evolution of the US is very like the evolution of Boston itself from the premiere US city to a city known for its historical charm but no longer the powerhouse of an urban hub that it was in the late 1700’s – 1800’s because the Boston Brahmins would not evolve. So we got outshined first by NYC then later CA.
Thank you. I have reached a point recently where I don’t nearly care as much what people think of my opinions, maybe because I see too many places on the net where others think because your opinion on a subject or a method doesn’t match theirs then you are automatically wrong. Well, maybe THEY are wrong. Or maybe you are BOTH wrong. Or maybe you are both right and there are more ways than just one to do something or think. Subject-dependent of course. Here on the blog, which was created for me, I voice my opinion where and when I feel necessary. I stay within the guidelines I set for the blog. Most of the time it’s weather-related, sometimes it’s not. The blog turns 10 years old in 2 months. Most people give up on things like this long before a decade. Not I (said the fly). 😉
I appreciate your comments. Thank you for participating as always!
I appreciate yours as well TK! I’m – sigh – not yet at your place of contentment with others and not needing to continue this mission – I’m still in the shouting, banging, pleading, debating etc. phase – lol! When I reach a more peaceful place we will share a beer 🙂
I know you know this but I appreciate this blog – and this community – so much! I know nothing about this science so can’t contribute substantively on the real page much – if at all – but you guys are the best teachers and having spent my life fearing science (I was all verball all day – maybe you noticed?) WHW finally allowed me to start trying to learn about meteorology and to be less afraid of the weather and of the hard sciences – thank you!!!
As always, exceptional perspective.
“ This is due to the fact that I personally believe that if we as a country fail to evolve and we instead re-elect Trump that will signify the true beginning of the end and deterioration of this first-of-its-kind democratic “experiment.”
Indeed, I fully believe we have been slipping down the rabbit hole for more than just a near four years. The approach of the right…..which I was always proud to support…..to President Obama was the start of the slide toward the end of our grand experiment
Everyone has an absolute right to not share his or her plan for voting. I also am proud to say I have voted for the Biden/Harris ticket……a vote, as Biden so accurately describes it…..for the soul of our country.
Should he lose, I fear we will loose hundreds more to a virus that Trump may not have brought here but is surely responsible for our inability to stop it.
Strongly disagree with the BAA announcement to cancel next April’s Boston marathon. I was also upset when they canceled the Head of the Charles rowing competition this fall. Allow the elite runners to compete in the marathon, and also let the rowers compete in the Regatta. Prohibit large crowds from gathering (focus on start and finish lines, as well as open areas along the route like Cleveland Circle) where there’s already a lot of police presence. These are outdoor events that, quite frankly, are much less crowded and packed together than Trump’s silly rallies. Yet, it seems every state – including Maine and NH – allow these rallies to happen. Also, BLM demonstrations have occurred in every state. Authorities didn’t cancel these events. I just don’t understand my country sometimes. The inconsistency is just so obvious.
They held a London marathon last month without incident. There were very few spectators. But they let the elite runners compete. I think that’s a smart decision. The major bike races in Europe were allowed to happen this summer. There were no incidents. Crowds tend to be thin, with the exception of the final spring on the Champs Elysees (police prohibited crowds from gathering there).
I don’t understand this decision, especially in light of the fact that they’re letting the major sports compete and even have some fans in the stands.
I agree with you 100%, which I usually what I find myself doing anyway. They did not need to ax the April 2021 marathon. At least it will happen at some other point, so there is that.
With all due respect, I agree with the decision. Unlike sports in this country, participants come from all over the world. That means many would come by plane which, if even allowed, could infect a whole group of folks. They need to be housed and fed in Boston. Maybe a vaccine will be available…..but to all countries?
Many colleges have moved to remote through spring so to me this makes equal sense.
The London marathon was held for only elites, As you said, in a Biosecure environment. The remaining folks participated virtually. I’m not clear whether their times qualified them for other marathons or if only elite time qualified. I wonder if BAA was unable to do the same.
Also I know it takes a year to plan a tiny tiny parade in Sutton. I can’t imagine the planning it takes for something as massive as the Boston Marathon.
To me it is impossible to understand the thought process unless you are part of the planning. Just my view
Expect the same postponements/cancellations of public events in 2021. Back to normal not until early-mid 2022. I get the impression that vaccine distribution is going to be quite S-L-O-W to say the least in 2021.
Frankly, it wouldn’t shock me if the world isn’t totally Covid-19 “free” until early 2023 when we all can remove our masks permanently and stop social distancing.
I hope that I am 110% wrong on my thoughts. It’s just I never hear any encouraging news with regard to this virus. Our current WH leadership isn’t helping matters, at least not with me. 🙁
Fwiw…This afternoon I got into a taxi cab and the driver had the news on his radio with an announcer with a British accent (BBC Radio?). Anyway, the announcer was talking about our presidential election blah blah and he went on to say that currently Biden has an 88% chance of winning the election.
I do find it fascinating though that other countries have so much interest in U.S. elections. I guess I shouldn’t be so surprised at the U.K. in particular.
Joshua, should we be very encouraged at those odds? Can we take it to the bank?
I’d like to know where he arrived at that figure. I think it’s a crock, to be perfectly honest. Unless he presents believable information as to where that came from, it is meaningless.
I have no clue where he arrived at that figure. He didn’t really explain from what I could tell. I imagine though there are a lot of odds makers out there, here in this country and around the world, obviously…
Philip I think it may well be hopeful thinking. The rest of the world as a whole is watching in horror at what is happening here.
Biden is visiting Florida tomorrow following former president Obama’s stump speech there yesterday.
It seems that Biden’s strategy is to “flip” certain RED states. Georgia as well.
To me it is a smart move. A friend in GA and relative in AZ seem to agree. I do have to add that the electoral college needs to be changed. A few states should NOT make this much difference
Vicki, thank you for your post. Thoughtful per usual. I’m glad we can have a civil disagreement about this particular issue.
Philip, the U.S. is still a very important country, and this is why so much attention is paid to it overseas. Still has the largest GDP, but perhaps more importantly an outsized influence. Think Hollywood, but also all the tech giants like Amazon, Google, Facebook, etc … that are American, powerhouse universities and hospitals, a melting pot (in fact, a social experiment that has had tremendous success in spite of its troubles), a still unrivaled military and space program, a currency in which more than 82% of ALL transactions worldwide take place, a country that generates more patents than any other, … I could go on and on. However much I’m critical of this country, I know how powerful it is. And it’s the idea of America that resonates, even among our enemies or allies that may be critical of us.
As far as odds for Biden winning the presidency. I have no idea at this point. It’s no secret I’m pulling for him, but Trump has made comebacks before, both in business and politics. I don’t ever count him out. While I really despise him as a person and don’t like most of his policies, I have a lot of respect for his vitality, energy, and positive attitude.
Joshua….respectful discourse is the only option. If I sway at all…and I can on occasion…I will recognize that I have an apologize. Neither of us knows what the BAAs thought process is which means there is no telling who’s opinion is even close to reality. I did reach out to a friend who has worked closely with the BAA for many years. Ill let you know
TK – I am glad that you are contributing to this Covid/political side of the blog. Don’t worry about voicing your opinions here. Keep them coming! 🙂
Thanks again!
Please do Tk!! I find you to be an old soul – so very wise like many here – and I really value your opinions, insights and perspectives on the few occasions you voice them. Although it’s not our current reality, polite and respectful discourse like this is – for me – one of the very best parts of life!
The world isn’t black or white, folks. It’s a mixed bag. I have tremendous respect for many Republicans, including Phil Scott. He has literally saved hundreds of lives in Vermont.
I look forward to reading your latest comments.
You are absolutely correct. There are still true republicans. What we are seeing now is the party of trump and it is as far from established republican views as it can be. As you know, it was my party….although always registered an an independent….until it started shifting right. Healthier Cox Richardson has several podcasts on the history of the pasty. I need to get back to them and see if her views gel with mine I’ll be surprised if they do not
I will look for the Richardson podcasts. Thanks for letting me know.
C-19 / 10-29 / ready
Comments are closed.
Your no-hype southeastern New England weather blog!
For the first time since the virus began the US has reported 500k cases in a single week. This does not look good for the upcoming cold and flu season which isn’t even fully underway.
Chicago will ban indoor dining for all restaurants in that city.
I’ve been catching up on the past couple days here – a few thoughts –
Joshua’s comments re: Tuesday literally had me in the fetal position with fear. I really wish they’d forget the sexy and go with the conservative approach bc so much relies on this election.
Tk – I love and appreciate your comments! I will definitely “do me” and right now – for the first time ever – doing me necessitates me being loud and proud for Biden. This is due to the fact that I personally believe that if we as a country fail to evolve and we instead re-elect Trump that will signify the true beginning of the end and deterioration of this first-of-its-kind democratic “experiment.” As I believe so strongly in my country I feel compelled to do everything I can to preserve and protect it – even from itself.
I find this current GOP movement to be a great analogy for the literal definition of irony. Because I perceive that in a desperate attempt to preserve/conserve the US as they knew it in 1950 the GOP will, in fact, destroy the US itself.
Fear driven action is never, ever the right approach. I feel that Trump is a bully and represents the old and dying establishment and way of doing things. This group over time has actually become the minority but they are desperate to retain control thus the bullying and fear based tactics. However if they do retain control our country will begin to decay/disintegrate.
It’s interesting because this evolution of the US is very like the evolution of Boston itself from the premiere US city to a city known for its historical charm but no longer the powerhouse of an urban hub that it was in the late 1700’s – 1800’s because the Boston Brahmins would not evolve. So we got outshined first by NYC then later CA.
Thank you. I have reached a point recently where I don’t nearly care as much what people think of my opinions, maybe because I see too many places on the net where others think because your opinion on a subject or a method doesn’t match theirs then you are automatically wrong. Well, maybe THEY are wrong. Or maybe you are BOTH wrong. Or maybe you are both right and there are more ways than just one to do something or think. Subject-dependent of course. Here on the blog, which was created for me, I voice my opinion where and when I feel necessary. I stay within the guidelines I set for the blog. Most of the time it’s weather-related, sometimes it’s not. The blog turns 10 years old in 2 months. Most people give up on things like this long before a decade. Not I (said the fly). 😉
I appreciate your comments. Thank you for participating as always!
I appreciate yours as well TK! I’m – sigh – not yet at your place of contentment with others and not needing to continue this mission – I’m still in the shouting, banging, pleading, debating etc. phase – lol! When I reach a more peaceful place we will share a beer 🙂
I know you know this but I appreciate this blog – and this community – so much! I know nothing about this science so can’t contribute substantively on the real page much – if at all – but you guys are the best teachers and having spent my life fearing science (I was all verball all day – maybe you noticed?) WHW finally allowed me to start trying to learn about meteorology and to be less afraid of the weather and of the hard sciences – thank you!!!
As always, exceptional perspective.
“ This is due to the fact that I personally believe that if we as a country fail to evolve and we instead re-elect Trump that will signify the true beginning of the end and deterioration of this first-of-its-kind democratic “experiment.”
Indeed, I fully believe we have been slipping down the rabbit hole for more than just a near four years. The approach of the right…..which I was always proud to support…..to President Obama was the start of the slide toward the end of our grand experiment
Everyone has an absolute right to not share his or her plan for voting. I also am proud to say I have voted for the Biden/Harris ticket……a vote, as Biden so accurately describes it…..for the soul of our country.
Should he lose, I fear we will loose hundreds more to a virus that Trump may not have brought here but is surely responsible for our inability to stop it.
Strongly disagree with the BAA announcement to cancel next April’s Boston marathon. I was also upset when they canceled the Head of the Charles rowing competition this fall. Allow the elite runners to compete in the marathon, and also let the rowers compete in the Regatta. Prohibit large crowds from gathering (focus on start and finish lines, as well as open areas along the route like Cleveland Circle) where there’s already a lot of police presence. These are outdoor events that, quite frankly, are much less crowded and packed together than Trump’s silly rallies. Yet, it seems every state – including Maine and NH – allow these rallies to happen. Also, BLM demonstrations have occurred in every state. Authorities didn’t cancel these events. I just don’t understand my country sometimes. The inconsistency is just so obvious.
They held a London marathon last month without incident. There were very few spectators. But they let the elite runners compete. I think that’s a smart decision. The major bike races in Europe were allowed to happen this summer. There were no incidents. Crowds tend to be thin, with the exception of the final spring on the Champs Elysees (police prohibited crowds from gathering there).
I don’t understand this decision, especially in light of the fact that they’re letting the major sports compete and even have some fans in the stands.
I agree with you 100%, which I usually what I find myself doing anyway. They did not need to ax the April 2021 marathon. At least it will happen at some other point, so there is that.
With all due respect, I agree with the decision. Unlike sports in this country, participants come from all over the world. That means many would come by plane which, if even allowed, could infect a whole group of folks. They need to be housed and fed in Boston. Maybe a vaccine will be available…..but to all countries?
Many colleges have moved to remote through spring so to me this makes equal sense.
The London marathon was held for only elites, As you said, in a Biosecure environment. The remaining folks participated virtually. I’m not clear whether their times qualified them for other marathons or if only elite time qualified. I wonder if BAA was unable to do the same.
Also I know it takes a year to plan a tiny tiny parade in Sutton. I can’t imagine the planning it takes for something as massive as the Boston Marathon.
To me it is impossible to understand the thought process unless you are part of the planning. Just my view
Expect the same postponements/cancellations of public events in 2021. Back to normal not until early-mid 2022. I get the impression that vaccine distribution is going to be quite S-L-O-W to say the least in 2021.
Frankly, it wouldn’t shock me if the world isn’t totally Covid-19 “free” until early 2023 when we all can remove our masks permanently and stop social distancing.
I hope that I am 110% wrong on my thoughts. It’s just I never hear any encouraging news with regard to this virus. Our current WH leadership isn’t helping matters, at least not with me. 🙁
Fwiw…This afternoon I got into a taxi cab and the driver had the news on his radio with an announcer with a British accent (BBC Radio?). Anyway, the announcer was talking about our presidential election blah blah and he went on to say that currently Biden has an 88% chance of winning the election.
I do find it fascinating though that other countries have so much interest in U.S. elections. I guess I shouldn’t be so surprised at the U.K. in particular.
Joshua, should we be very encouraged at those odds? Can we take it to the bank?
I’d like to know where he arrived at that figure. I think it’s a crock, to be perfectly honest. Unless he presents believable information as to where that came from, it is meaningless.
I have no clue where he arrived at that figure. He didn’t really explain from what I could tell. I imagine though there are a lot of odds makers out there, here in this country and around the world, obviously…
Philip I think it may well be hopeful thinking. The rest of the world as a whole is watching in horror at what is happening here.
Biden is visiting Florida tomorrow following former president Obama’s stump speech there yesterday.
It seems that Biden’s strategy is to “flip” certain RED states. Georgia as well.
To me it is a smart move. A friend in GA and relative in AZ seem to agree. I do have to add that the electoral college needs to be changed. A few states should NOT make this much difference
Vicki, thank you for your post. Thoughtful per usual. I’m glad we can have a civil disagreement about this particular issue.
Philip, the U.S. is still a very important country, and this is why so much attention is paid to it overseas. Still has the largest GDP, but perhaps more importantly an outsized influence. Think Hollywood, but also all the tech giants like Amazon, Google, Facebook, etc … that are American, powerhouse universities and hospitals, a melting pot (in fact, a social experiment that has had tremendous success in spite of its troubles), a still unrivaled military and space program, a currency in which more than 82% of ALL transactions worldwide take place, a country that generates more patents than any other, … I could go on and on. However much I’m critical of this country, I know how powerful it is. And it’s the idea of America that resonates, even among our enemies or allies that may be critical of us.
As far as odds for Biden winning the presidency. I have no idea at this point. It’s no secret I’m pulling for him, but Trump has made comebacks before, both in business and politics. I don’t ever count him out. While I really despise him as a person and don’t like most of his policies, I have a lot of respect for his vitality, energy, and positive attitude.
On a dismal note, our test positivity in a number of states is truly alarming: https://twitter.com/EricTopol/status/1321466255124033537
Joshua….respectful discourse is the only option. If I sway at all…and I can on occasion…I will recognize that I have an apologize. Neither of us knows what the BAAs thought process is which means there is no telling who’s opinion is even close to reality. I did reach out to a friend who has worked closely with the BAA for many years. Ill let you know
TK – I am glad that you are contributing to this Covid/political side of the blog. Don’t worry about voicing your opinions here. Keep them coming! 🙂
Thanks again!
Please do Tk!! I find you to be an old soul – so very wise like many here – and I really value your opinions, insights and perspectives on the few occasions you voice them. Although it’s not our current reality, polite and respectful discourse like this is – for me – one of the very best parts of life!
The contrast between Republican-led Vermont and Republican-led South and North Dakota couldn’t be more stark. Vermont’s Governor Phil Scott’s Covid-19 policies have been vastly superior. My latest is on this topic. https://www.forbes.com/sites/joshuacohen/2020/10/28/among-republican-led-rural-states-vermont-is-vastly-more-successful-in-combating-covid-19/
The world isn’t black or white, folks. It’s a mixed bag. I have tremendous respect for many Republicans, including Phil Scott. He has literally saved hundreds of lives in Vermont.
I look forward to reading your latest comments.
You are absolutely correct. There are still true republicans. What we are seeing now is the party of trump and it is as far from established republican views as it can be. As you know, it was my party….although always registered an an independent….until it started shifting right. Healthier Cox Richardson has several podcasts on the history of the pasty. I need to get back to them and see if her views gel with mine I’ll be surprised if they do not
I will look for the Richardson podcasts. Thanks for letting me know.
C-19 / 10-29 / ready