#Corona weather ny

[putrefyingflames]

Okay so I haven’t been able to find this anywhere, I wanna make a record of everything that’s been painted on the bass drum at every show. I’m starting with North America and the ones I can easily find. If you can reblog and add any that are missing (or any that haven't happened yet as of first posting), that would be a big help! And any photos. I’ll make a separate post for Europe research and then a master post when I have them all!

EDIT: There's a tweet thread for all of these that can be found here and includes digital line art of every drum! thank you to @thatkindagirl for letting me know! There's also a list and lineart for all the Europe stops here.

Aug 20, Oklahoma City OK - BIG DEATH ENERGY

Aug 21, San Antonio TX - LIVE LAUGH LAUNCH

Aug 23, Nashville TN - I BET IT WAS YOU

Aug 24, Cincinnati OH - SMILE WITH YOUR EYES

Aug 26, Raleigh NC - FREE BUGS

Aug 27, Elmont NY - GET IN THE CHAIR

Aug 29, Philadelphia PA - BLOOM

Aug 30, Albany NY - MANHUNT

Sept 1, Uncasville CT - HOST ORGANISM

Sept 2, Montreal QC - I ONLY HAVE EYES FOR YOU

Sept 4, Toronto ON - BACK IN THE CAGE

Sept 5, Toronto ON - SURE (painted over back in the cage from the previous night)

Sept 7, Boston MA - "SPOOKY"

Sept 8, Boston MA - BEARS ON THE 405

Sept 10, Brooklyn NY - HAPPY BIRTHDAY YOU BEAUTIFUL MAN (mikey's birthday)

Sept 11, Brooklyn NY - DON'T EVER CHANGE

Sept 13, Detroit MI - SICK

Sept 15, St Paul MN - SOUNDS FUN, I'M IN

Sept 16, Riot Fest, Chicago IL - DESTROY

Sept 18, Alpharetta GA - YOU GOT THE JOB

Sept 20, Newark NJ - OFF LEASH

Sept 21, Newark NJ - THE HOUSE ALWAYS WINS

Sept 23, Firefly Fest, Dover DE - no writing, a printed out picture of a bouquet of pink flowers (roses? carnations?) was taped to it

Sept 24, Sunrise FL - WHERE ARE YOU?

Sept 27, Houston TX - FEELING GOOD

Sept 28, Dallas TX - HAIL

Sept 30, Denver CO - SWAN VARIATION

Oct 2, Portland OR - ATHENA

Oct 3, Tacoma WA - I WANNA WATCH YOU TURN INTO A WEREWOLF

Oct 5, Oakland CA - smiley face with a bullet hole in the forehead, like the comedian's bloody smiley face pin from Watchmen

Oct 7, Las Vegas NV - MY WHOLE HEART

Oct 8, Aftershock Fets, Sacramento CA - CHOKE ME

Oct 11, Inglewood CA - |

Oct 12, Inglewood CA - ||

Oct 14, Inglewood CA - a photo of Doug, a member of their team who died unexpectedly, wearing something fuzzy? Kinda looks like a fozzie bear costume lol, sitting at a music mixing station

Oct 15, Inglewood CA - ||||

Oct 17, Inglewood CA - ||||

(American style tally marks for 5)

Oct 22, WWWY, Las Vegas NV - cancelled for inclement weather

Oct 23, WWWY, Las Vegas NV - NOTHIN BUT THE BEST

Oct 29, WWWY, Las Vegas NV - KNIVES FOR DAYS

Nov 18, Corona Capital Fest, Mexico City - MUY FEVGO

(I’m editing the pinned version of this post every day with what I’ve found and new drums)

{in an act of preservation as twitter collapses, I have saved all the drum images and line art from the North America thread, in case it’s lost}

[masterroofers]

Roof Care: Simple Steps to Protect Your Home in Brooklyn and Queens

Hello, folks in Brooklyn and Queens! We all value our cozy corners and safe havens—our homes. And there's one unsung hero that deserves a bit more spotlight for keeping us snug and secure: our roof. Here’s a straightforward guide on maintaining your roof without any fuss, ensuring it continues to shelter you effectively.

The Big Deal About Roof Maintenance

Maintaining your roof isn't just about dealing with problems as they come. It's about prevention. Here’s what a well-maintained roof does for you:

Keeps the Weather Out: Your roof defends against rain, snow, and even the summer heat. A small compromise in your roof can lead to big problems inside your home.

Lowers Energy Costs: An intact roof is great for insulation. It keeps warm air in during the winter and out during the summer, helping to manage your energy bills more effectively.

Maintains Your Home's Value: A good roof is a huge plus if you ever decide to sell your home. It’s one of the first things inspectors and potential buyers check.

Prevents Costly Repairs: By addressing small issues now, you can avoid expensive repairs later. Regular maintenance helps extend your roof’s life.

Easy Roof Maintenance Tips

You don't need to be an expert to keep your roof in good shape. Here are some simple maintenance tips anyone can follow:

Visual Inspection: Twice a year (spring and fall are good times), take a walk around your home and look up at your roof. Check for missing, damaged, or worn-out shingles and any signs of sagging or uneven rooflines.

Clean the Gutters: Keeping your gutters clear is crucial. Blocked gutters can lead to water backing up and damaging your roof. Make it a routine to clean them out in the spring and fall.

Trim Tree Branches: If you have trees around your house, make sure no branches are hanging over your roof. They can scratch the roof materials or fall on the roof during storms, causing damage.

Deal with Moss and Mold: If you see green or black spots on your roof, that’s moss or mold, which can hold moisture and degrade roofing materials. You can clean these off or have a professional handle it for you.

Knowing When to Call the Professionals

Some tasks are best left to the experts, especially if:

The Damage Looks Serious: If you see extensive damage or areas that need major repair, it’s wise to call in a professional roofing contractor.

After Severe Weather: If there's been a major storm or extreme weather, get a professional to inspect your roof to ensure no hidden damage needs attention.

If You’re Unsure: Whenever you're in doubt about doing a roof task yourself, hiring a professional is the safest choice. They have the tools and the know-how to do the job safely and effectively.

Choosing the Right Roofer

Finding a reliable roofer is important. Look for someone with good reviews, proper certification, and clear pricing. A trustworthy roofer should be willing to explain their process and provide a detailed quote.

Find Master Roofers on Google Map and Cities mentioned Below:

Master Roofers

Address: 7826 Parsons Blvd, Queens, NY 11366, United States

Contact Number: +17189570313

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[cool-in-forest-hills-ny]

Professional Queens Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

When seeking a professional Queens pedestrian accident lawyer, consider these key factors: First, prioritize experience in personal injury law and inquire about their track record and client reviews. Second, seek a lawyer with a positive reputation in the Queens legal community. Third, ensure the lawyer has a communication style that suits your needs and can address your concerns. Additionally, confirm that the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, pays attention to detail, has negotiation skills, and has trial experience. Considering these characteristics, you can find Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers, the right choice for Queens personal injury lawyer for your case. Book your appointment now, call 929-209-4909. 

Queens, NY, Culinary and Sports Paradise 

Queens offers more than just a place to live; it's a culinary and sports paradise that will keep you entertained and intrigued. From the vibrant Little Italy in Astoria to the bustling Koreatown in Flushing to the culturally rich Jackson Heights, home to a large South Asian community, there's a world of amazing dining experiences to explore. For sports enthusiasts, the renowned Citi Field, the home stadium of the New York Mets baseball team, and the USTA National Tennis Center, the prestigious venue for the annual US Open, are just a stone's throw away, promising endless excitement and entertainment.

Citi Field

Citi Field in Queens is best known for hosting New York Mets baseball games. It's one of the places to visit while you're in Queens. Attending a game offers an exciting experience with classic ballpark snacks and an enthusiastic crowd. The stadium also offers behind-the-scenes tours, showcasing areas like the press box and batting cages. In addition to traditional food options, Citi Field provides diverse choices, including Shake Shack burgers and Mikkeller NYC craft beer. Visitors can explore the Mets Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the team's history and legendary players. Apart from baseball, the stadium hosts concerts and special events such as charity runs and family fun days. Whether it's game day or not, Citi Field offers visitors a variety of entertainment options.

A powerful storm caused trees to topple in NYC

Heavy rain and strong winds caused numerous downed trees in New York City, leaving many residents without power. However, the prompt action of the crews, who began removing the trees early Thursday morning, reassured the residents that their power would be restored and streets would be open to traffic soon. This storm left streets littered with debris, and trees crashed down on cars, closing down streets and knocking out power for many. Due to the severe weather conditions, the New York City Parks Department received 95 reports of downed trees citywide. As of Thursday morning, about 3500 Bronx residents are without power, and in Westchester, nearly 10,000 customers are without power. Wind gusts also brought a tree down on another car on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Despite these challenges, the crews' prompt action instills confidence in the city's ability to recover swiftly.

Link to maps

Citi Field 41 Seaver Wy, Queens, NY 11368, United States Take I-678 S to Meadow Lake Rd W. Take the exit toward Flushing Meadows Corona Rd/69 Rd/Jewel Ave/Harry Ave Arsdale Junior Avenue from I-678 S 4 min (2.9 mi) Take Van Wyck Blvd and 69th Rd to New York 25 Service/Queens Blvd 7 min (1.6 mi) Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers 108-18 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375, United States

[acrossthecoronaverse]

[skippyv20]

We live a few miles away from Corona virus ground zero in NY-- New Rochelle. And I use the train station there as an alternate way home on public transport. The Gov. issued a one mile contaiment area the synagogue the guy attended. He's responsible for around 100 infections in New York state . And now the schools in our town have been closed due to a positive test on a school teacher. The area is becoming a ghost town. Just hope the warm weather ends this.

Oh, I’m so sorry to hear this....😔❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[fragmentsofafracturedland]

Corona Virus Report

A firsthand journal account. NY, CT, MA, 3/11/20

________________________________________________________________

Our Last Hurrah

It started slow. A distant bit of news amid the horror storm that had become the daily buzz of background noise. Just one more catastrophe, to give a quick wince over, and then get on with our lives. That’s all it was.

Until it wasn’t.

Until the panic set in, the precautions, the cancellations. Were people over reacting, or under reacting? Was it better to go about business as normal, but just be careful, or to cancel everything and go on lock down mode? Even when so many people can’t afford to just stop going to work, to school, can’t just stop their daily lives, with nothing to fall back on and nowhere to go. Some industries can’t just become remote. Economies can’t all just change on a dime. Could we survive if everything kept going anyway? Could we survive if it didn’t? What was more dangerous? The disease or the cure?

I found myself fleeing one home, racing to a safer haven, or at least one where I wouldn’t be alone. I left people behind me in the danger zone. People I cared about. Could I have brought them with me? I tried. Could I have tried harder? Could they have run too if they wanted to? Even though they had nowhere to run to?

Along the way I sheltered with friends. It was joy wrapped up in bliss. But the shadow of disaster cast a sheen of sadness. Laughing loud, I felt a sinking in my gut. This gathering felt like a last hurrah. One big party before hunkering down in our end of world bunkers. The band playing on the proverbial sinking ship.

We knew. I can’t lie and pretend we didn’t know. We had heard all the warnings. Keep your distance from other people. Isolate yourself. Beware of crowds, public places, food made by other people. Yet we were scared, and we were young, and we didn’t know when we would see each other again. Can you blame us? I don’t blame you if you do.

We hugged, we snuggled, we shared drinks and food and rooms and air. Two of us were sick, one with a risk factor, but it was probably fine, right? It was probably nothing. We told each other, and warned each other, and we didn’t care. We were scared. We held each other anyway. We went out to eat, not once but twice. When would be the next time we’d be allowed to eat out? When would be the next time we��d be allowed to go outside?

Can you blame us?

Can’t you at least understand?

We had families. Older parents, relatives, friends, contacts. We had places to be, out there in the world, among people at greater risk than us. We had come from areas at risk. We knew. We should have known.

Oh god what have we done.

Maybe this will all blow over. Maybe this will sail past like a fast moving storm, and we’ll be able to come out tomorrow and pick up the pieces. Maybe not tomorrow, or the next day, but soon. We can laugh in relief and everything will be fine.

Hey, it could happen, right? Anything could happen.

But if the worst comes, will it be our fault? For one day and night of revelry, how much might others pay? How selfish were we, to risk so much? How could we? How dare we.

How could we.

I don’t know what will happen. None of us do. We’re all scared, young and old. And this calamity is robbing us of our means to sustain ourselves, to sustain and comfort each other.

Is that loss worse than the danger? Is it worth the risk, to get a bit of comfort? Who are we to judge?

I hope this guilt over this selfishness will prove needless. I hope we and all who we care about get through this. But not everyone will. Not everyone has. For some, it is already too late.

What can we do? No more than we can. What can we expect of ourselves? To be human. To be horribly, wonderfully, stupidly, brilliantly human.

I hope one day we can all look back on this. That we’re all there to do so. I can’t know that. All I can know is this:

We will survive. Not all of us, not as individuals. The human race will survive. Most likely. It has weathered plagues before, more deadly than this. Those passed away, this also may. And humanity deserves to survive. For all its flaws, the virtues give worth, and all life has a right to life. But how many will we lose along the way? How can I mourn for people I don’t know, have never met, will never meet? How can I mourn for people who aren’t gone yet? How can I mourn for loved ones not lost yet?

How can I bear to keep from reaching out to them while we still have time?

I have no answers. Only questions. And every question stings. Nothing is sure.

One thing is sure. No matter what happens, no matter how foolish it turns out to be, no matter if tragedy exposes our folly and condemns our recklessness, this I know: a part of me will always treasure that time I spent with my friends. One last hurrah, before the long wait for the end of the world.

[kevindurkiin]

Elements Throws “In My Elements” Mini Festival With Rigorous Safety Procedures

The common thought between many industry professionals right now is that we have to weather the storm so we can see the sunlight at a later time, rather than try to fight against it. That is, while COVID-19 is still a present threat, throwing shows is simply irresponsible, even with recommended safety guidelines in place. But what about going beyond those guidelines? Elements might have an answer.

Elements Lakewood Festival, originally scheduled for the weekend of September 25, is cancelled. In its place will be the mini-fest In My Elements which advertises music, from Maceo Plex, DJ Tennis, and more, and mindful activities. However, the festival also has one of the most rigorous safety procedures we’ve seen any festival implement with advance- and on-site COVID-19 testing and more.

According to the website’s “2-Part Testing” info page, “3-days prior to the retreat a PCR Active COVID-19 test, provided by Rapid Reliable Testing, and Ambulnz, will be available at designated locations in NY, PA, and MA. A nasal swab test will be administered by licensed medical technicians at locations provided. Samples are brought back to a NY or NJ lab and results are delivered in 24-48 hours. An infection mitigation coordinator is available to offer support and assistance.”

Once attendees are approved, they’ll make the drive to Northeastern, PA where they’ll be submitted to another round of on-site testing.

“Testing will be administered by licensed medical technicians, with on-site medical services provided by  ParaDocs. Guests must arrive by car by between 11am and 2pm or 4pm and 7pm. Vehicles will be quarantined 20ft from each other while awaiting testing. All guest will have their temperature taken and receive a nasal swab PRC COVID-19 test. Tests results will be given within 30 minutes to 1 hour of arrival on site. Restrooms will be disinfected after each use with guests directed along dedicated lanes and facilities for every 10 cars.”

In addition to all of this, the festival also describes other preventative measures in place:

All participants are recommended to keep a contact tracing and activity log 14 days prior to the retreat.

All participants are required to certify they do not live with, and will avoid contact with “People at a higher risk for severe illness” per CDC guidelines for 14 days prior to and after the gathering.

Guests are recommended to not make stops while on the way to the site. Food and drinks will be available onsite, tested vendors will be available.

You can read the full safety procedures here.

None of this is to say that the chance of contracting COVID-19 from In My Elements is reduced to zero, it is not “corona proof.” But it’s safe to say that no other festival right now is implementing this level of scrutiny and safety for its attendees.

You can find more information and tickets to the event, if you feel comfortable going, here.

  Photo via Julian Cassady for Elements

This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Elements Throws “In My Elements” Mini Festival With Rigorous Safety Procedures

Elements Throws “In My Elements” Mini Festival With Rigorous Safety Procedures published first on https://soundwizreview.tumblr.com/

[bestdjkit]

Elements Throws “In My Elements” Mini Festival With Rigorous Safety Procedures

The common thought between many industry professionals right now is that we have to weather the storm so we can see the sunlight at a later time, rather than try to fight against it. That is, while COVID-19 is still a present threat, throwing shows is simply irresponsible, even with recommended safety guidelines in place. But what about going beyond those guidelines? Elements might have an answer.

Elements Lakewood Festival, originally scheduled for the weekend of September 25, is cancelled. In its place will be the mini-fest In My Elements which advertises music, from Maceo Plex, DJ Tennis, and more, and mindful activities. However, the festival also has one of the most rigorous safety procedures we’ve seen any festival implement with advance- and on-site COVID-19 testing and more.

According to the website’s “2-Part Testing” info page, “3-days prior to the retreat a PCR Active COVID-19 test, provided by Rapid Reliable Testing, and Ambulnz, will be available at designated locations in NY, PA, and MA. A nasal swab test will be administered by licensed medical technicians at locations provided. Samples are brought back to a NY or NJ lab and results are delivered in 24-48 hours. An infection mitigation coordinator is available to offer support and assistance.”

Once attendees are approved, they’ll make the drive to Northeastern, PA where they’ll be submitted to another round of on-site testing.

“Testing will be administered by licensed medical technicians, with on-site medical services provided by ParaDocs. Guests must arrive by car by between 11am and 2pm or 4pm and 7pm. Vehicles will be quarantined 20ft from each other while awaiting testing. All guest will have their temperature taken and receive a nasal swab PRC COVID-19 test. Tests results will be given within 30 minutes to 1 hour of arrival on site. Restrooms will be disinfected after each use with guests directed along dedicated lanes and facilities for every 10 cars.”

In addition to all of this, the festival also describes other preventative measures in place:

All participants are recommended to keep a contact tracing and activity log 14 days prior to the retreat.

All participants are required to certify they do not live with, and will avoid contact with “People at a higher risk for severe illness” per CDC guidelines for 14 days prior to and after the gathering.

Guests are recommended to not make stops while on the way to the site. Food and drinks will be available onsite, tested vendors will be available.

You can read the full safety procedures here.

None of this is to say that the chance of contracting COVID-19 from In My Elements is reduced to zero, it is not “corona proof.” But it’s safe to say that no other festival right now is implementing this level of scrutiny and safety for its attendees.

You can find more information and tickets to the event, if you feel comfortable going, here.

  Photo via Julian Cassady for Elements

This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Elements Throws “In My Elements” Mini Festival With Rigorous Safety Procedures

from Best DJ Kit https://www.youredm.com/2020/06/30/elements-throws-in-my-elements-mini-festival-with-rigorous-safety-procedures/

[bluebuzzmusic]

Elements Throws “In My Elements” Mini Festival With Rigorous Safety Procedures

The common thought between many industry professionals right now is that we have to weather the storm so we can see the sunlight at a later time, rather than try to fight against it. That is, while COVID-19 is still a present threat, throwing shows is simply irresponsible, even with recommended safety guidelines in place. But what about going beyond those guidelines? Elements might have an answer.

Elements Lakewood Festival, originally scheduled for the weekend of September 25, is cancelled. In its place will be the mini-fest In My Elements which advertises music, from Maceo Plex, DJ Tennis, and more, and mindful activities. However, the festival also has one of the most rigorous safety procedures we’ve seen any festival implement with advance- and on-site COVID-19 testing and more.

According to the website’s “2-Part Testing” info page, “3-days prior to the retreat a PCR Active COVID-19 test, provided by Rapid Reliable Testing, and Ambulnz, will be available at designated locations in NY, PA, and MA. A nasal swab test will be administered by licensed medical technicians at locations provided. Samples are brought back to a NY or NJ lab and results are delivered in 24-48 hours. An infection mitigation coordinator is available to offer support and assistance.”

Once attendees are approved, they’ll make the drive to Northeastern, PA where they’ll be submitted to another round of on-site testing.

“Testing will be administered by licensed medical technicians, with on-site medical services provided by  ParaDocs. Guests must arrive by car by between 11am and 2pm or 4pm and 7pm. Vehicles will be quarantined 20ft from each other while awaiting testing. All guest will have their temperature taken and receive a nasal swab PRC COVID-19 test. Tests results will be given within 30 minutes to 1 hour of arrival on site. Restrooms will be disinfected after each use with guests directed along dedicated lanes and facilities for every 10 cars.”

In addition to all of this, the festival also describes other preventative measures in place:

All participants are recommended to keep a contact tracing and activity log 14 days prior to the retreat.

All participants are required to certify they do not live with, and will avoid contact with “People at a higher risk for severe illness” per CDC guidelines for 14 days prior to and after the gathering.

Guests are recommended to not make stops while on the way to the site. Food and drinks will be available onsite, tested vendors will be available.

You can read the full safety procedures here.

None of this is to say that the chance of contracting COVID-19 from In My Elements is reduced to zero, it is not “corona proof.” But it’s safe to say that no other festival right now is implementing this level of scrutiny and safety for its attendees.

You can find more information and tickets to the event, if you feel comfortable going, here.

  Photo via Julian Cassady for Elements

This article was first published on Your EDM. Source: Elements Throws “In My Elements” Mini Festival With Rigorous Safety Procedures

source https://www.youredm.com/2020/06/30/elements-throws-in-my-elements-mini-festival-with-rigorous-safety-procedures/

[the-bargainista]

Dating distantly

I had assumed that dating was dead during coronavirus. All of the typical date spots were closed, and people have to socially distance themselves from strangers. But then, on a Skype catch-up call, my friend gushed about having a great Skype date.

I was shocked. I decided to seek out more stories about how people were approaching dating during this time.

Sarina, 33, of Brooklyn, NY, “was more curious to see what it was like. I was on Hinge. I got on Tinder just to see what it was like, to see if people were going crazy, honestly. It was more of a social experiment on my part. My thought process was to see if people would want to get to know people over a period of time.”

For fun, Sarina also started using the Passport premium feature that Tinder offered for free in April in order to explore guys in other countries. She had some casual conversations with people who wanted to know what things were like in New York, the epicenter of coronavirus in the United States.

Sarina did meet someone local on Tinder. He said he was craving human interaction and suggested an outdoor socially distant date. They went to a nearby park, which ended up being crowded due to the nice weather.

“It was actually kind of difficult to do the date because, half the time, I was more focused on trying to keep the distance between, not just me and the date, but also the other people in the park....I don’t think we made that much eye contact,” she said. “By the end of the date, I did feel guilty for having gone outside.”

The guy suggested a second outdoor date, but Sarina requested a virtual date to avoid crowds. He sent her dinner via Uber Eats, and they did a Skype call. Rather than being distracted by other people’s proximity, she found other ways to be easily distracted.

“After that second date and messaging him afterward, I don’t think I want to date during this period,” Sarina said. “It’s different. It’s hard to get to know someone through a screen. If you’re with someone and you’re seeing their mannerisms, it’s kind of more real, a little more human, versus a floating head when you talk to someone. I don’t know him as well as a friend where I can infer body language.”

Another barrier to dating that she found was “on the apps, a lot of guys said they’re outright lonely and bored and had spare time and, as a result, immediately started sexting or were like, ‘I’m really lonely; help me.’” Sarina got the sense that a lot of people, including herself, were not in the right place to be dating. She wanted to use her time to get her own projects done.

Sarina said, “It’s hard to focus on dating when it doesn’t feel like it’s really dating.”

Patrick, 64, has had different experiences with dating in Springfield, MA. He started out the year engaging a matchmaker because he had yet to find a partner through online dating. Patrick had one unsuccessful connection before the pandemic began and he put the matchmaking on hold.

Dating naturally became less of a priority as he started devoting his energy to leading emergency operations at his job. Once Patrick got some free time, he decided to go back to the dating apps Bumble and Hinge.

Patrick began conversing with one woman on Bumble. “We progressed to a phone call and continued to get to know one another and decided to have what I’ve referred to as a ‘corona date,’” he said. They met at a large park near where they both live and walked around for a few hours, all the while maintaining appropriate social distance.

The date went well enough that they went on a second socially distant date, this time a three-hour hike. Patrick joked that the dates felt very Victorian. He also realized that “when you’re walking six feet apart and you’re kind of side by side, you’re not facing each other, so you’re not looking at each other....I think it’s the lack of being face-to-face as you would probably be on an initial drink or coffee date....Chances are, you’re sitting across from each other so that, obviously, you’re concentrating on each other....What’s added to [the conversation] is all the non-verbals. It could be positive or negative.”

Patrick and the woman didn’t continue dating, and he started talking to someone from Hinge. “The conversation, of course, centers around ‘How are you surviving in this time of social distancing and self-quarantining?’ and those kinds of things. My attitude is, it’s a priority of mine to connect with someone, to find someone to hopefully develop a relationship with. There are many ways to continue that process without needing to sit next to each other in a wine bar or a Starbucks,” he said.

[djbcadventures]

Now Open: The Economy?

It has been a two-month shutdown for the Economy. It started on March 10 as events started getting canceled left and right. On March 12, Ohio banned “Mass Gatherings” of over 100 people (it was changed to ten just four days later, after the Centers of Disease Control’s recommendation.). On March 15, dining in at bars and restaurants ended. And it ballooned from there over the course of two weeks. By the end of March, Ohio was closed for business.

After bullying by the deniers of science and President Trump, Ohio (along with most of the rest of the country) has reluctantly slowly started to re-open the State’s Economy. Last week, Offices, along with Manufacturing and Industrial Companies were allowed to re-open (with Social Distancing). On Tuesday, Consumer Retail, both big and small (also with Social Distancing).

And today is when you can get that long overdue haircut, get a tattoo, get a mani-pedi, or dine al fresco (however, due to inclement weather today, Press Your Luck).

On May 21, you can dine inside or go outdoor camping. After the Memorial Day Holiday, Gyms and Non-Contact Sports will be allowed, starting on May 26. On May 31, Childcare Centers will be allowed (with a maximum of six to nine children per room).  We can only go up from there.

However, we should be concerned about the second and third waves of COVID-19 to hit. Is re-opening the State’s Economy too soon good in the long haul? Are Governors like Mike DeWine (R-OH), Gavin Newson (D-CA), Andrew Cuomo (D-NY), Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI), Andy Beshear (D-KY), J.B. Pritzker (D-IL), Jared Polis (D-CO), Tony Evers (D-WI), and Ralph Northam (D-VA) caving into the obnoxiously loud screams of AK-47 toting, MAGA Hat wearing protesters, and to President Trump’s obsession with “re-opening the economy so he can destroy what’s left of the United States”? The answer to that is, “YES!” If we haven’t learned anything from the 1918 Influenza Outbreak is that if there is a second wave, it will be more potent than the first.

The Economy is the worst it’s been since the Great Depression, as over 36 million Americans have filed for unemployment with no end in sight. President Trump’s lies, temper tantrums, and denial of the truth and his unwillingness to let the medical experts completely do their jobs will and should be his Administration’s undoing. 

While this blogger will still be wearing a mask in public, abstaining from those hugs, and adhering to his Corona Battle Cry (#HDASH - Hunker Down And Stay Home - Remember That!)

[theseadagiodays]

April 13, 2020

Interstices

Definition: an intervening time or space

Synonym: Aperture - an opening or gap

Gap - a space or pause between two things

Pause - a suspension of movement or activity

Space - a continuous area or expanse which is free and available

Whether our rhythms have slowed or accelerated in this moment, we all currently sit at an interstices.  A place in time between what came before and what comes next.  An uncomfortable spot for most of us, because humans habitually seek certainty.  But this time is also an opening, an opportunity where we can be free to explore new ways of being.  A time to suspend old habits, and invite shifts in perspective.  In some schools of Buddishm, they have a term for such in-between times.  “Bardo is an intermediate, transitional, or liminal state between death andrebirth.  A state of great potential for liberation, since transcendental insight may arise with the direct experience of reality” Wikipedia

But most of us resist making space in our schedules because it gives too much room to look at the bold truth of our lives.  Like the clear expanse of a mirror, this time is revealing much that we need to remember, but also much that we don’t want to see.  The decreased GHG’s from limited transport have clarified our skies and caused animals to rapidly return where humans had previously dominated.  The gardens we’d neglected are being tenderly tilled.  And the friends we’d forgotten for decades are reaching out to reminisce.  But the work that does not feed our souls, or the incessant self-deprecating thoughts, or the spouse who irritates us (speaking generally of course), or the wallpaper we regret having bought, all glare us in the face daily and force us to reflect on our real priorities and desires.  However, all at once, this can be too much for us to take in.

I remember a Vancouver talk, on my birthday in 1998, where the Tibetan monk, Chogyam Trungpa said it amazed him “how much North Americans busied their lives so as not to know themselves”.    If this is true, it strikes me that in order to assuage our fears about looking at the skeletons in our own empty closets, perhaps we can try to look at space entirely differently.

In music, space or silence can be incredibly potent.  Violinist, Isaac Stern describes music itself as “that little bit between each note—the silences which give the music form.”  One of my favorite composers, Arvo Part is a master of silence.  The pauses in many of his halting melodies require the listener to become an active participant - to fill the space with their own interpretations,  just as we can do during this time.   His Psalom for strings is a mesmerizing example of such writing.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-Ssbik_dmY

Visual artists have also created substantive beauty from negative space. The images below play with absence and presence, illustrating that our perception can entirely shape what we choose to see.  Similarly, if we can stretch our understanding of what is currently missing from our lives to recognize the space this allows for other things to present themselves, it may fortify our patience and acceptance with the way things are.

But if none of this brings solace during challenging times, and we still need to cling to hope, we can remember that, invariably, after rest always comes activity.  Bamboo is a prime example of this, as noted in this proverb about the slow but mighty grower, “the first year it sleeps, the second year it creeps, the third year it leaps.”

So, if we emerge from COVID anything like North America emerged from the 1918 flu epidemic, maybe we can finally look forward to an era where flapper dresses come back.  I know that I’d personally find the next Roaring Twenties a welcomed resurgence.  

April 14, 2020

Finding Stillness in Uncertainty

For hours last Tuesday, in a persistent drizzle and strong wind, I wandered my neighborhood aimlessly with a broken umbrella, mourning the shut restaurants, scared faces, and unhugged friends I hadn’t seen in weeks.

But today, the air is still and warm, and the scent of pregnant magnolias saturate my senses while I bathe in birdsong.  

Photo by my friend Cheryl’s 12-year-old son, Noah

Such is the mercurial nature of life in this pandemic.  Still, as best I can, I try to walk my talk.  Be the master of my own attitude.  Contribute where I can.  Live mindfully and gratefully.  But some days this is much harder than others.  However lately, Vancouver’s unseasonable summer weather has made this infinitely easier.  As someone who suffers from seasonal effective disorder, and who’s had a love/hate affair with my rainy though lush city, it makes me realize how important it is to find conditions condusive for optimal living. With the improved weather and a large park right behind my home, I am enticed to greet each morning with a slow, present-minded walk.  A moving meditation.  

I have also been grateful for the opportunity to lead weekly guided meditations for my husband’s work team.  His colleagues are front-line workers of a different sort.  They run our local transit system which is still critically needed by those who must continue to work in public settings, or who do not have the privilege of their own vehicle.  But with covid-fear and enforced social distancing measures, Translink is losing $3 million a day in ridership fees.  So, they are under enormous stress to adjust their service plans, make difficult decisions about lay-offs, and continue to try and plan for a very uncertain future.   However, it heartens me to know that people who find themselves even more work-burdened during this crisis still recognize the need to slow down, even for brief moments, in order to be more productive later. So, I thought I’d share a recording of one of these sessions, which people can follow at home.  It is less than 15 minutes long, just short enough to carve out of any day but still possible to dramatically alter your nervous system.

https://youtu.be/x2fjRvBB6x0

And finally, this poem by Martha Postelwaite speaks to the gifts stillness can bring.

Do not try to save the whole world or do anything grandiose. Instead, create a clearing in the dense forest of your life and wait there patiently, until the song that is your life falls into your own cupped hands and you recognize and greet it. Only then will you know how to give yourself to this world so worth of rescue.                       -   Martha Postlewaite

April 15, 2020

Timely Artists’ Responses

I am normally a minimal social media user.  However, ironically, my Facebook and Instagram feeds have been my saving grace during this period.  This is probably helped by the fact that, over the years, rather than racing to accumulate friends, I have mostly only followed those people in my life who I trust to direct me to moments of grace and beauty.   Consequently, many of the links in this blog have come from my own community of thoughtful, kindness-oriented, arts-minded friends and family to whom I’m hugely grateful.

Some of my friends are the actual creators of these daily doses of inspiration.  Like my Toronto-based buddy, Lorne Bridgman (https://lornebridgman.com), whose in-demand work has graced the covers of En Route (Air Canada’s in-flight magazine), Monocle, and Travel & Leisure.  (A coup for us, since way back in 1997, we were probably the only people who ever landed him as a wedding photographer). Fittingly, his stirring nighttime images of abandoned playgrounds during the pandemic tell a very powerful story.

I have been keeping my own mental ledger of these “never before corona” scenes (like our yellow-taped playgrounds) which I observe every day.  The most striking of these I captured with my iphone just yesterday.  These four beachcombers appear to be metred-out models of social distancing with their perfectly proportioned pose.

Artists the world round are similarly documenting this time through a variety of expressive mediums.  Below, are a few of the most creative that I’ve discovered so far.

The New York Times delivers again, with 17 Artists Capture a Surreal NY from their Windows

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/04/16/nyregion/coronavirus-nyc-illustrators-window.html?action=click&module=Editors%20Picks&pgtype=Homepage

Katherine Lam, Queens, NY

Or this Beijing-based British map artist, who instead of his elaborate filligried-illustrations of sprawling urban areas, now maps what’s between his four walls.

https://www.cnn.com/style/article/gareth-fuller-maps-coronavirus-quarantine/index.html

Globally, graphic designers have also used their talents to advocate, provoke, or amuse: https://www.dezeen.com/2020/03/18/coronavirus-covid-19-graphic-design-illustration/?fbclid=IwAR3bUYBwSkCtlj_yhlDkvUtGOFBDBJGMYXiDl3do74Gqm4JdHbkxTET48H8

Oliver Jeffers, beloved Irish children’s author and illustrator

And for 80’s kids like me, this new release, No Time to Love Like Now, from an old fave, REM’s Michael Stype, sends a sparsely-layered musical message from his home studio that feels highly appropriate for the times:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=MYgpEcXf2S4&feature=emb_logo

Finally, as I’ve stretched my social-media muscles, I confess that I’ve even ventured to Twitter and Tik Tok at times.  Most of us over-30 have probably been oblivious to the phenomena of social-media influencers, like the 15-year-old "reigning queen of TikTok", Charli D’Amelio, whose whether-you-like-it-or-not, down-to-earth appeal and smooth moves have charmed 48 million followers! But, as vacuous as many of her make-up tutorials have been, she is now using her reach for good with her originally choreographed Distance Dance which, for everyone who posts their own #distancedance video, will trigger Proctor & Gamble to donate to one of a variety of non-profits feeding those most vulnerable and hit hard by the virus.   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fS6913bBVek

April 16, 2020

Home Cooking

I truly believe that we all have an “inner artist” if we just find ways to tap it.  But it saddens me to hear how quickly many people say they have “no talent”.  Creativity is not magic.  It’s what humans have harnessed since time immorial to survive, adapt, and thrive.  Creativity also increases exponentially when there are constraints on our resources. The elegance of a haiku is a pure example of this.  Limited to just 5, 7, & 5 syllables per line, this simple container lends itself to essential and beautiful nuggets of expression accessible to all.  Here’s a timely one from the #quarantinehaikus project that I mentioned earlier:

I’m in quarantine But all my ideas are not. This month, they happen.

Similarly, another creative pursuit that has most given humans a window into their own creativity is the culinary arts.  Sure, for some their adventures as gourmands consist of little more than ramen, canned tuna, a boiled egg and Dijon mustard for a pantry version of Julia Child’s Salad Nicoise.  But quarantined living is certainly inspiring more imagination in the kitchen than usual. Though this expression may be overused, “necessity is the mother of invention” has perhaps never been more universally true.  However, if you’re trying to limit your grocery trips to once per week, and your mind happens to draw a blank when you open your cupboard, here are dozens of recipes that you can try with what you might likely already have on hand:

https://cooking.nytimes.com/topics/self-quarantine-recipes

My own constant culinary muse is my great friend, Belkis, whose Instagram page, Epicurious Travelista (below) is a visual and delectable treat.  Most of her images include recipes.  And while they might look elaborate, and sometimes indeed they are (this is a woman unafraid of churning her own butter, or making her own tortillas from scratch), her resourceful Honduran roots influence many exquisite meals that she makes from only a few simple ingredients.  So, for those wanting to spread their chef’s wings a bit wider, you can check out her page here:

https://www.instagram.com/epicurious_travelista/

April 15, 2020

Zoom Masters

Of course, Zoom has been the victor and the enemy in this digitally-dependent time, both allowing multi-generational families to share seders, while at the same time stealing private details from citizens.  But one can not deny that the extent to which people have exploited this format for good has been inspiring.  I’m biased towards the musical collaborations that the format has spawned.  But don’t be fooled.  This technology, designed for one-speaker-at-a-time, does not render performances like the one below, easily.  Each frame has to be recorded separately (with consistent click tracks, to keep everyone in time), and then carefully edited together in post-production. These are highly stylized efforts. And this one takes it to another level with its choreographic complexity.  So, while I wish everyone to have a weekend where they can Get Down, Stay Down, here’s a treat to enjoy:

https://www.theverge.com/2020/4/8/21213608/coronavirus-zoom-music-video-thao-and-the-get-down-stay-down?fbclid=IwAR3PIGg8lcGMLgQrJGISDcjrRbcy3eQG2XI-sqbc-BOGs5f8s5PNRPf54H4

[elrickerikose]

Flashing Meadows-Corona Park, NYC #flashingmeadows #queens #water #photography #travelgram #photographer #travel #building #usa #nyc #ny #traveltheworld #фото #сша #фотограф #stone #medow #sky #photo #weather #visualtraveler #what_i_saw_in_nyc #plant #newyorkarea #newyork #nature #зелень #naturephoto #brightsky #небо (at Flushing Meadows - Corona Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/B0xHYHinaEt/?igshid=tingwyrvn7bx

[susangkomengreaternyc]

What is Linda Reading, Watching, and Listening to This Week (May 22nd)

Reading: The Dutch House, Ann Patchett Why: Life is too short for bad books. This is a Finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in fiction. Here is the review from NPR.

Watching: The Spanish Princess, STARZ Why: My book snobbery does not apply to television. Acting is not always great but you will stay for the costumes and the palace intrigue.

Listening: The Argument, Podcast from the NY Times columnists Frank Bruni, Ross Douthat and Michelle Goldberg. Comes complete with tons of background material to read before listening. Why: Super smart analysis. Kind of can’t stand Douthat, but Bruni is divine in his wisdom, eloquence and compassion.

Cooking: Time to dust off the grill, marinade some veggies and/or meat, and cook a few family favorites! Why: Long weekend and beautiful weather!

Corona Extras: Don’t miss this astute commentary on Obi Wan Pelosi’s color coordinated face masks. (Can’t take credit for that, stole it from Sen. Surovell.)

[whatcelebsmeantome]

Week 15: Final Corona Diaries!

When the safer at home order started in Los Angeles I had been home for maybe 2 or 3 days. You could tell there was a lot of fear and people were nervous. One of my first goals when coming home was to clean out my closet fully, as I was planning to move home after my apartment lease was up in NY at the end of August. When going through my closest and organizing we found and put all of my barbies from my childhood into a bag and the outcome was crazy and very funny in the end. (This is all of the heads of my mostly naked barbies.) *Not sure why they are naked*

This is my gorgeous and wonderful cat Bella. I just love taking pictures of her because she makes me very happy and somewhat sane during this all. One of our cats had a litter of kitten when I was in middle school and she is product of that! She just turned 10 on March 21st! She is the last surviving cat of that litter. Sadly one of them went ferrel and ran away and the other two sadly got hit by cars. Grateful this girl is still around though. (Don’t mind Niall Horan in the background..)

I am very much in love with sunsets and this one was particularly gorgeous that I just loved. every time I see the sun go down in the reflections of the windows and if the sunset is nice I run outside to take pictures as I love them so much! When you see a good one you’re lucky!

In an odd world I zoomed with my extended family for Passover Seder. It was definitely a little hectic but it was a lot of fun to see my little cousin experience the greatness of a family passover even in an untraditional way!

Although this goes along with my sunset photos, it’s slightly different. I have just been loving and have been very grateful to be home in Los Angeles where the weather is really nice and I have a yard I can hang out in. If I were in NYC I would be in a small cramped apartment with little sunlight and no grass. I would feel very nervous to be outside in general. I have been sitting by my moms pool getting a tan which I sure can’t do in NYC in 50 degrees. I feel happier even under the circumstances to be at home with family in the sun.

My mom and I (mostly my mom) made my dad a birthday cake for his birthday last week. Although my parents are divorced it is nice that they can still come together and be nice to each other for the most part. My dad wanted me to take a picture of him with his cake so I obliged. (He won’t be happy I an posting him in my blogpost- but he will never know)

My grandma who is in Pennsylvania FaceTimed me randomly and I had no idea she even knew how to FaceTime! It was very random, very nice, and very funny. I was very confused but it was nice talking to her even for a brief few minutes! I am just glad she is safe and inside.

And finally! My best friends mom who lives a few minutes away from me brought me a few really cool 3D Puzzles by the brand “Wrebbit.” My best friend and her mom became addicted to them and thought Id be really good at them so she brought me a few to try! I have only completed one as I am in the middle of my final week of college but it feels nice to complete something and be determined to do something in a time like now where I have no desire to do anything. I started it around 5:30 and finished it by midnight, but of course I did take breaks to eat and stopped out of annoyance so I didn’t smash the whole thing into pieces. Felt very content and happy to have finished it!

This has been a really great class to be apart of. I have really appreciated learning about these really great people around the world making huge differences in any way they can.

[kawaiipizzawonderland]

NY Mysteries March 21, 2020

  God has a sense of humor. In the midst of the corona virus pandemic, the stock market wobbling and the current administration, we have had wonderful weather. Remember 9/11? It too was a perfect day, weather wise.

Books to start reading in quarantine: George Eliot’s Middlemarch.After the first chapter buy the audio. Naxos has a wonderful and pricy edition read by Juliet Stevenson. Years ago, BBC…