Throughout history there have been people who challenged society to do new and wonderful things. Things that most of us would shirk and shudder from because it is taking risks just for an idea and a dream. It is those symbols, dreams and hopes that continue push people forward to do things that are nearly impossible. People have scaled Mount Everest and they have endured and did it again. Many more have passed away in the attempt. As a human species we continue to overcome our environment and the brave souls continue to march to uncertain futures!
Most people will never understand the draw to challenge the possibilities while a few have something deep inside them that whispers, "Why aren't you there?" and "You can do this stuff!" Trips are not cheap ranging from 50K to 100+K and take years and months to prepare. Oxygen is a serious issue up there and preparation takes a long time. A small cough could end your trip. Some might not get medical or permits because lack of experience. I heard from a few climbers that K2 is even more crazy and difficult.
A really honest article on what its like from Daily Mail.
Thursday, March 26, 2020
Thursday, March 19, 2020
How the Economy Might Change After COVID-19?
The business world and the economy are changing by the minute, perhaps by the second, as stock markets bounce and economic animal spirits come back to haunt the bull market. Market chaos seems to feel like the new "normal". As novel measures are enacted to create greater pressure to adapt telecommuting, online education and online shopping we may want to consider economic options to encourage rational optimism for when the crisis is over. The COVID-19 and social distancing policies may have inadvertently lead us to the door of the Information Age, Big Data and the Digital Economy. As pressure mounts on existing structures our economic system might just tip toward the virtual and that in turn could alter some of our basic assumptions. New assumptions sometimes make older economic models obsolete and leads the field open to new models. Lets look at a few ways the digital economy could impact us......
First lets us say that some level of evolutionary economics is going to occur. This means that the environment has fundamentally changed but our structures are functioning properly so they will adjust to meet the new environment (A little bumpy ride). Because we are testing and putting pressures on these new structures they will adapt along with the companies that use them. There are times when chaos (Chaos Theory) leads to new ways of doing things based on shifted underlining structures....
While we might not be able to control the "uncontrollable" but we ARE able to control how we deal with it. "We can't control the winds but we can adjust our sails" Finding our bearings, plotting a novel course and giving others a point of sale raises our pride. I wonder which country will make it through the transition first? Crack of sails nods destiny.
This article is part of context for research on Transactional Economic Clusters that may (or not 😣) contribute to a body of knowledge on viable economic models. You can read more about it HERE.
Related articles economy:
Gary Cohn says the US is in a recession that will cost ‘trillions’ as unemployment ‘skyrockets’
Coronavirus spreads, raising threat of global economic depression
Job losses could quickly soar into the millions as coronavirus craters U.S. economy
First lets us say that some level of evolutionary economics is going to occur. This means that the environment has fundamentally changed but our structures are functioning properly so they will adjust to meet the new environment (A little bumpy ride). Because we are testing and putting pressures on these new structures they will adapt along with the companies that use them. There are times when chaos (Chaos Theory) leads to new ways of doing things based on shifted underlining structures....
- Telecommuting: More companies are now going on line and the Internet is working as it should. As many of these companies go online (Wondering what the economists come up with?) many will decide they would rather hedge their new methods and stay as virtual as possible. From a national standpoint 10-20% increase in online workdays fundamentally changes the basis of our economic assumptions. We would be in uncharted territory! Growth in telecommuting jobs 159% in 12 years. https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/flexjobs-gwa-report-remote-growth/
- Increase e-Commerce: Downloaded Apps and online shopping will encourage more virtual shopping and less drives out to large retail outlets. Amazon is planning on hiring 100 K new workers. Walmart may might want to push online sales more heavily. https://www.foxnews.com/us/amazon-hire-workers-coronavirus https://finance.yahoo.com/news/walmart-to-hire-150000-people-amid-coronavirus-002023425.html
- Big Data: As more company and people transition to online life we often find increased data. That much data will change what we know about each other and business. Here is an article on $4.7 billion the data is worth to the healthcare and pharmaceutical industry. https://dailyscience.me/2020/03/16/big-data-in-the-healthcare-pharmaceutical-industry-2018-2030-opportunities-challenges-strategies-forecasts/
- Neighborhood Redesign: Health, "walk/bike-ability", local boutique stores, local court yards, and local fitness allows a sense of community and for "hunker-in-place zones" without seriously disrupting "normal" life. You can read a little more on sustainable cities of the future. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/314259748_Smart_Sustainable_Cities_of_the_Future_An_Extensive_Interdisciplinary_Literature_Review
- Government Services will go Online: More government services will go online. For example, State of Michigan announced people can file unemployment at MI Works online instead of coming in person. https://www.mlive.com/public-interest/2020/03/michigan-unemployment-benefit-claims-should-be-filed-online-state-says.html
- The rise of AI and Robots: Our technology is now touching upon advance technologies that will make their way into our daily lives. From home deliveries through drones, driverless cars, increased traffic rerouting, cleaning robots, and much much more. You might want to look at what Forbes is doing to highlight changes through the Forbes AI List. https://www.forbes.com/sites/alanohnsman/2020/03/17/is-your-company-using-artificial-intelligence-to-transform-an-industry-nominations-for-the-forbes-2020-ai-50-list-are-now-open/#2ef209e63bf2
- Economic Fundamentals and Digit GDP: The economic fundamentals will change and Digital GDP will becoming increasingly important. There will be a shift in thinking globally when it comes to online data. You can read more about its rise above wholesale goods here https://www.ntia.doc.gov/blog/2019/digital-economy-accounted-69-percent-gdp-2017
- Online Education: Online education has grown and has a small cottage presence in most state universities. Sending students home means a quick development of capacity and not all students will return back to campus. You can see some of the trending growth prior to COVID-19. https://www.insidehighered.com/digital-learning/article/2018/11/07/new-data-online-enrollments-grow-and-share-overall-enrollment
- Environmental Concerns: Our environment will become increasingly important to people and governments. The fight against COVID-19 impacts the way we view the global economy and its impact on the environment for all of us. You can read about U.N. Climate Change initiatives.
This article is part of context for research on Transactional Economic Clusters that may (or not 😣) contribute to a body of knowledge on viable economic models. You can read more about it HERE.
Related articles economy:
Gary Cohn says the US is in a recession that will cost ‘trillions’ as unemployment ‘skyrockets’
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Scientists Can Submit COVID-19 Papers to World Health Organization (WHO) Database
The World Health Organization (WHO) created a database that researchers that can upload papers, partial papers, and pre-print papers for other scientists to read and explore solutions. In crisis situations it is important to open the lines of communication to fellow scientists on a global scale in an effort to gain a broad understanding quickly.
As of yet no one has a solution but encouraging people who studied similar phenomenon to upload their papers goes a long way (for successful and unsuccessful studies). It is an attempt to collect all current peer-reviewed studies on COVID-19 and make them searchable.
Science can sometimes be chaotic and at times researchers explore hunches to find new connections that lead to solutions. The good news is that the database seems to have enough capabilities to be useful and lead to categorization of information. Categories with lots of data allow for us to think along the lines of variables and testing.
More impressive is that scientists are throwing their work up their with little or no concern for copy-write issues! If you know scientists and professors they are somewhat secretive of their ground breaking work. In this case they are pulling together to get the job done as a scientific community!
Within a short time span they created a budding body of knowledge.
There may be a few biologists, researchers and others that may have something to contribute. Here is the WHO site.....
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/global-research-on-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov
As of yet no one has a solution but encouraging people who studied similar phenomenon to upload their papers goes a long way (for successful and unsuccessful studies). It is an attempt to collect all current peer-reviewed studies on COVID-19 and make them searchable.
Science can sometimes be chaotic and at times researchers explore hunches to find new connections that lead to solutions. The good news is that the database seems to have enough capabilities to be useful and lead to categorization of information. Categories with lots of data allow for us to think along the lines of variables and testing.
More impressive is that scientists are throwing their work up their with little or no concern for copy-write issues! If you know scientists and professors they are somewhat secretive of their ground breaking work. In this case they are pulling together to get the job done as a scientific community!
Within a short time span they created a budding body of knowledge.
There may be a few biologists, researchers and others that may have something to contribute. Here is the WHO site.....
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/global-research-on-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov
Lap Swimming Pool Closed? Jump into the Deep Blue!
 |
| Body Glove summer suit and quick dry shoes. |
After the first 30 seconds of agonizing "wake up" shocks as your body plunges into the deep blue you will come to realize how spoiled you were back at the "spa"! Maybe you will also come to gain a greater sense of how important it is now and in the future to protect our environment.
We probably don't need to discuss much about the health benefits of lap swimming because if you are reading this you likely found it by key words. In short, swimming is one of the best sports one could engage in for overall health. It impacts your entire body, improves your cardiovascular system and shreds fat! Moving on......
Swimming outdoor burns even more calories! It not only requires a higher level of effort dealing with bouncing waves and pulling currents but also pushes you to become comfortable with the uncomfortable. Likewise because you are maintaining your core temperature in cold water (I mean very cold water!😬) your body will burn additional calories!
While doing a rustic plunge has its advantages for health and aesthetic sights there are some precautions you should take before going natural with your workouts. This is even more important with people who are not accustomed to being outdoors and the fickle personality of Mother Nature. Swim with either a wet suit or a flotation device until you get familiar with your own abilities and your new swimming grounds. I once saw a surfer get swept back out by a rip tide he was crossing over. Fortunately, he was a strong swimmer and knew what he was doing but you may not.
Be safe out there......
Sunday, March 15, 2020
Friday 28th 2020 COVID-19 Update-Governor Whitmer Seeks Masks for Michigan!
Video on Governor Whitmer and the need for more masks in Michigan. Its a problem all of the states are facing right now. There simply isn't enough available and so people are going to fight over precious resources. This is absolutely normal!The problem we face is that this virus caught everyone and every nation off guard and until production increases there will be shortages, worry and elbowing to get more. From my perspective there really is only two primary possible solutions when it comes to availability of masks (assuming the need for masks isn't declining).
1. Increase supply. Increased supply comes from making (making our own) or purchasing (from less afflicted nations). Suppliers, and potential suppliers, should consider the the benefits of making them. Small businesses in a group can make a big dent and they often can start producing small batches quicker than larger companies. Could also be countries out there that are willing to sell excess capacity to Michigan and/or Federal Government.
2. Better allocation of existing masks to provide a little slack time to supply new ones. That would assume we are close to having new batches. That would require a sharing type strategy among states. That requires some coordination and planning guidelines. These states will want them back if needed.
I wonder with such a worldwide need why businesses have not yet started to fill the void (market pressure)? If businesses can create masks they should be contacting the state and federal authorities to offer their help and let them know they have some capacity and ability. There is no easy solution but what we can say is that there a lot of people (worldwide) who need them and such businesses are likely to find a receptive market (I doubt this will be the last time a bad virus spreads globally). Simple masks are easy to make which may suffice for daily errands and grocery shopping but the more complex masks are harder to come by for first responders, police officers, nursing homes and medical staff.
Thus, building more and ensuring that people who are fighting the disease on the virus battlefield get them first is important. One might also say that elderly and those at risk have legitimate needs. One mask might be able to go a long way if used gently. Got extras...consider donating and doing a patriotic service to your country! If your a state that doesn't currently need them would you be willing to make a temporary loan to a crisis state like Michigan until you need them back? Anyone got a shipping address? Could hospitals also start sharing resources so that they are allocated to "hot spots" first? No easy solutions......🤔
Friday 27th 2020 COVID-19 Update-Census Tracking for Michigan (Other States)
You can view COVID-19 Tracking in Michigan and other states at the COVID Tracking Project
-Cases per county (Michigan): https://covidtracking.com/screenshots/MI/MI-20200326-010804.png
-All States Daily: https://covidtracking.com/us-daily/
Thursday 26th 2020 COVID-19 Update- President Trump Releases Document to Governors to Restart Economy
President Trump indicates a methodology to re-start the economy through better testing and labeling counties/areas for different risk levels. Localizing the fight could help those areas that are not at the same risk levels continue to work and live life fairly normal while reallocating to those who need their help. It also appears from the document that the government is getting better of tracking the virus's spread. Computer models are so much better now and we have the ability to track these things with much more accuracy with the right models and testing apparatuses. The problem with this virus is that it caught the world off guard and no one was ready!I'm pretty sure that the policies we are setting up today will impact a line of policies the next time this occurs. There will be risks in the reopening of our economy (increased sickness that could result in death) in the same way that there are risks by keeping it closed (increased poverty that could impact the lifespan and general welfare of generations and the fate of our global position). Its a hard balance to find because people are going to be right and left of the most reasonable "risk/reward" line. If it works well it would seem that localizing and isolating quickly before it spreads to regional areas allows us to keep the economy charging forward. Like a large organism, when one part is suffering the working parts can help out and send resources to better fight and protect the areas that are currently afflicted. For example, lets say we have 10 non-infected counties and 1 infected one. If all go under the same "stay home" rules than all the masks, ventilators and resources will be sucked up by everyone leaving serious shortages to those who need it. However, if we could do this correctly we can send available resources to those counties that are struggling. In other words we are managing our supply chain better and ensuring the area has ventilators, masks, gloves, etc... to "nip the disease in the bud" quickly. This "maximizing resources where needed" system could be an excellent model (at least theoretically) if we can get people coordinating. Imagine.....saving the economy (maximum capital) while saving more lives (better resource allocation).
You can read this document here.....unfortunately I couldn't tell if there was a way to embed. 🙎ðŸ˜
https://www.npr.org/2020/03/26/822049287/read-president-trumps-letter-to-governors-on-new-coronavirus-guidelines
Wednesday 25th 2020 COVID-19 Update- Watch Senate Vote
Tuesday 24rd 2020 COVID-19 Update- Federal Resources Mobilizing, Stock Increases, and Restarting Economy
President Trump makes a strong point about the economy and its need to overcome current challenges. Personally, I believe that this is a crisis and it opens opportunities for innovating our economy. There is a lot of movement and buzz going on in the White House and it appears a comprehensive package that impacts most engine sectors of society will help them power back up. New masks, gloves, and other medical supplies are being made and shipped. Companies have stepped up to the plate to help our nation overcome its challenges. This could be a defining moment in the trajectory of our development but only time will tell.
Michigan has a lot of information on COVID-19. You may want to read up....https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/
Monday March 23rd 2020 COVID-19 Update-Michigan Stay Home/Safe Orders and Surgeon General Warning
Michigan Governor Whitmer.....
"The order also directs Michiganders to stay in their homes unless they’re a part of that critical infrastructure workforce, engaged in an outdoor activity, or performing tasks necessary to the health and safety of themselves or their family, like going to the hospital or grocery store" (1).
Sunday March 22nd 2020 COVID-19 Update-National Guard Deployed to Cali, NY, and Washington
The President announced FEMA/Federal Governments that includes hospital beds, new supplies and national guard support. The states will control the national guard but the Federal Government will cover the costs. That includes new testing and medical stations. The country is coming together to beat this virus. While it is unlikely to be the last of its kind in our lifetimes it does help us change and adjust our current methods/capabilities to be even better prepared the next time something similar happened.
Sunday March 22nd 2020 COVID-19 Update-Rising Numbers in Michigan
There are indications that COVID infections numbers are rising in Michigan. While we know how in general such viruses function there are likely many more people who are infected but have no idea they are raising risks of exposure to others. We do need to work together on a national and state level to focus on opportunities that find new solutions and protocols. As a nation, we will swim or sink together and at this time both parties need to be 100% focused on solutions. Stay safe out there and be mindful of others during our time of need. Take care of your neighbors and work together. 790+ cases and quickly rising means we all need to be diligent. Data is still taking additional time and it is unlikely we can test everyone so the numbers we have are only projections that contain a large margin of error. This means no one knows for sure the exact amount and we don't know the end result. We can, however, focus on developing something new out of the chaos. With such novel situations no one knows the "right" answer but we do know there are a lot of factors at play all moving at one time. Even in the worst situations, thrivers look to discover new solutions and make their way to a vision of a better future.
Saturday March 21st 2020 COVID-19
General updates that include working with businesses as well as preparing additional testing with stronger preventative measures. Much of it is discussing the overall approach the government is employing to minimize casualties and ramp up capacities. One thing the White House is doing right is working together as a nation and involving businesses in solutions. Our innovative manufacturing capacities are part of the reasons why we triumphed in our past wars and will be part of the solution in this war. The President also announced student loans will have 60 days temporary suspension and a promised future discussion on the student loan debt (🤞). It would seem a gale of change is coming and there will be further coordination with companies to better position the country to handle these types of challenges. It could even be a time when we think of turning on the fluorescent lamps (That is before LED😬)and blowing off the dust off our lost manufacturing ingenuity to solve new problems (What eco, high tech, cutting edge, etc. products will solve problems in a new market?). Everyone has a hand in solving this problem and we rise or fall together as a people. This becomes ever so apparent in a virus crisis that sees no differences between people, races, religions, education, income, or any other man made construct.
President Donald Trump offers an air of calm to a nervous nation. It is a time of necessity and a lot of partial information, unknowns, and misinformation has flooded the airways. At the end of the day, with the current WTO rates of virus transference our economic system is likely to continue forward in the long run; unless something changes. Our essential systems and supply chain are not impacted from a structural standpoint. Yet, the spike in demand does create unexpected problems for people who have families and need to shop normally.
A little reflection on your true needs would be helpful here....
The food supply system is designed to meet "normal" demands. However, hoarding and panic strip the shelves clean of basic necessities. Even with the COVID-19 there doesn't appear to be at this time any reason to close stores (unless to restock). Life should continue on as "normal" as possible under new safety measures.
We need to be diligent against the virus and diligent in helping our community members.
We create some of our own problems. Some of us think about others and some of us don't (Essentially, the same problem from the beginning of mankind). The elderly, mothers, families and others might be left without the basics (i.e. empty bread shelves or no masks for the sick/elderly) if we all push others out of the way!
A few things you should think about before you load your cart! 🤔
1. Can you conserve? Disposable masks can be used over and over. Toilet paper can be opted a little more sparingly. You can switch from paper towels to old fashion cloth towels. Think more about what it means to protect your environment through better conservation practices. Try and limit waste and explore repeat use products when stores are out.
2. Its time to think long term for the next time a virus breaks out. Its wise to have a couple of weeks of extra canned/dry food in the house. If people have a little surplus they don't need to rush to the store. The extra cushion can help you in all types of situations beyond COVID-19. Now might not be the time to swipe the shelves clean but it could be the time to create a future plan.
3. Just pick up a few extra things. Its ok to pick up a few extra things you might need. It is NOT ok to have a basket of 40 packs of masks, all the canned food you can get your hands on, and 30 rolls of paper towel. Think in terms of days. What do you really need per day and pick up a few extra days each time you go to the store. It could help limit supply shocks and bring you great awareness of your consumption habits.
From a national standpoint we can slow but not stop such viruses; at least until a vaccine is created. We can think about minimizing its impact and good hygiene. The changes in FDA testing means that research can go to trial much faster. Faster trials mean faster solutions!. They may be testing different strains of virus to see if any can produce a vaccine that will work on COVID-19. It takes time to grow, test and see the results of clinical trials. Our job is to do our best to slow down the spread through self-awareness, washing hands, and minimizing large social gatherings. Article on new rules and testing trials.
You may want to look at the WHO interactive map of the virus spread. https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/685d0ace521648f8a5beeeee1b9125cd
State of Michigan offers information on the virus and their policies....
www.Michigan.gov/coronavirus
1. Increase supply. Increased supply comes from making (making our own) or purchasing (from less afflicted nations). Suppliers, and potential suppliers, should consider the the benefits of making them. Small businesses in a group can make a big dent and they often can start producing small batches quicker than larger companies. Could also be countries out there that are willing to sell excess capacity to Michigan and/or Federal Government.
2. Better allocation of existing masks to provide a little slack time to supply new ones. That would assume we are close to having new batches. That would require a sharing type strategy among states. That requires some coordination and planning guidelines. These states will want them back if needed.
I wonder with such a worldwide need why businesses have not yet started to fill the void (market pressure)? If businesses can create masks they should be contacting the state and federal authorities to offer their help and let them know they have some capacity and ability. There is no easy solution but what we can say is that there a lot of people (worldwide) who need them and such businesses are likely to find a receptive market (I doubt this will be the last time a bad virus spreads globally). Simple masks are easy to make which may suffice for daily errands and grocery shopping but the more complex masks are harder to come by for first responders, police officers, nursing homes and medical staff.
Thus, building more and ensuring that people who are fighting the disease on the virus battlefield get them first is important. One might also say that elderly and those at risk have legitimate needs. One mask might be able to go a long way if used gently. Got extras...consider donating and doing a patriotic service to your country! If your a state that doesn't currently need them would you be willing to make a temporary loan to a crisis state like Michigan until you need them back? Anyone got a shipping address? Could hospitals also start sharing resources so that they are allocated to "hot spots" first? No easy solutions......🤔
Friday 27th 2020 COVID-19 Update-Census Tracking for Michigan (Other States)
You can view COVID-19 Tracking in Michigan and other states at the COVID Tracking Project
-Cases per county (Michigan): https://covidtracking.com/screenshots/MI/MI-20200326-010804.png
-All States Daily: https://covidtracking.com/us-daily/
Thursday 26th 2020 COVID-19 Update- President Trump Releases Document to Governors to Restart Economy
President Trump indicates a methodology to re-start the economy through better testing and labeling counties/areas for different risk levels. Localizing the fight could help those areas that are not at the same risk levels continue to work and live life fairly normal while reallocating to those who need their help. It also appears from the document that the government is getting better of tracking the virus's spread. Computer models are so much better now and we have the ability to track these things with much more accuracy with the right models and testing apparatuses. The problem with this virus is that it caught the world off guard and no one was ready!I'm pretty sure that the policies we are setting up today will impact a line of policies the next time this occurs. There will be risks in the reopening of our economy (increased sickness that could result in death) in the same way that there are risks by keeping it closed (increased poverty that could impact the lifespan and general welfare of generations and the fate of our global position). Its a hard balance to find because people are going to be right and left of the most reasonable "risk/reward" line. If it works well it would seem that localizing and isolating quickly before it spreads to regional areas allows us to keep the economy charging forward. Like a large organism, when one part is suffering the working parts can help out and send resources to better fight and protect the areas that are currently afflicted. For example, lets say we have 10 non-infected counties and 1 infected one. If all go under the same "stay home" rules than all the masks, ventilators and resources will be sucked up by everyone leaving serious shortages to those who need it. However, if we could do this correctly we can send available resources to those counties that are struggling. In other words we are managing our supply chain better and ensuring the area has ventilators, masks, gloves, etc... to "nip the disease in the bud" quickly. This "maximizing resources where needed" system could be an excellent model (at least theoretically) if we can get people coordinating. Imagine.....saving the economy (maximum capital) while saving more lives (better resource allocation).
You can read this document here.....unfortunately I couldn't tell if there was a way to embed. 🙎ðŸ˜
https://www.npr.org/2020/03/26/822049287/read-president-trumps-letter-to-governors-on-new-coronavirus-guidelines
Wednesday 25th 2020 COVID-19 Update- Watch Senate Vote
Tuesday 24rd 2020 COVID-19 Update- Federal Resources Mobilizing, Stock Increases, and Restarting Economy
President Trump makes a strong point about the economy and its need to overcome current challenges. Personally, I believe that this is a crisis and it opens opportunities for innovating our economy. There is a lot of movement and buzz going on in the White House and it appears a comprehensive package that impacts most engine sectors of society will help them power back up. New masks, gloves, and other medical supplies are being made and shipped. Companies have stepped up to the plate to help our nation overcome its challenges. This could be a defining moment in the trajectory of our development but only time will tell.
Michigan has a lot of information on COVID-19. You may want to read up....https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/
Monday March 23rd 2020 COVID-19 Update-Michigan Stay Home/Safe Orders and Surgeon General Warning
Surgeon General Jerome Adams......
“Everyone needs to act as if they have the virus right now, test or no test, we need you to understand you could be spreading it to someone else or you could be getting it from someone else. Stay at home.”(2).
“Everyone needs to act as if they have the virus right now, test or no test, we need you to understand you could be spreading it to someone else or you could be getting it from someone else. Stay at home.”(2).
Michigan Governor Whitmer.....
"The order also directs Michiganders to stay in their homes unless they’re a part of that critical infrastructure workforce, engaged in an outdoor activity, or performing tasks necessary to the health and safety of themselves or their family, like going to the hospital or grocery store" (1).
Sunday March 22nd 2020 COVID-19 Update-National Guard Deployed to Cali, NY, and Washington
The President announced FEMA/Federal Governments that includes hospital beds, new supplies and national guard support. The states will control the national guard but the Federal Government will cover the costs. That includes new testing and medical stations. The country is coming together to beat this virus. While it is unlikely to be the last of its kind in our lifetimes it does help us change and adjust our current methods/capabilities to be even better prepared the next time something similar happened.
Sunday March 22nd 2020 COVID-19 Update-Rising Numbers in Michigan
There are indications that COVID infections numbers are rising in Michigan. While we know how in general such viruses function there are likely many more people who are infected but have no idea they are raising risks of exposure to others. We do need to work together on a national and state level to focus on opportunities that find new solutions and protocols. As a nation, we will swim or sink together and at this time both parties need to be 100% focused on solutions. Stay safe out there and be mindful of others during our time of need. Take care of your neighbors and work together. 790+ cases and quickly rising means we all need to be diligent. Data is still taking additional time and it is unlikely we can test everyone so the numbers we have are only projections that contain a large margin of error. This means no one knows for sure the exact amount and we don't know the end result. We can, however, focus on developing something new out of the chaos. With such novel situations no one knows the "right" answer but we do know there are a lot of factors at play all moving at one time. Even in the worst situations, thrivers look to discover new solutions and make their way to a vision of a better future.
Saturday March 21st 2020 COVID-19
General updates that include working with businesses as well as preparing additional testing with stronger preventative measures. Much of it is discussing the overall approach the government is employing to minimize casualties and ramp up capacities. One thing the White House is doing right is working together as a nation and involving businesses in solutions. Our innovative manufacturing capacities are part of the reasons why we triumphed in our past wars and will be part of the solution in this war. The President also announced student loans will have 60 days temporary suspension and a promised future discussion on the student loan debt (🤞). It would seem a gale of change is coming and there will be further coordination with companies to better position the country to handle these types of challenges. It could even be a time when we think of turning on the fluorescent lamps (That is before LED😬)and blowing off the dust off our lost manufacturing ingenuity to solve new problems (What eco, high tech, cutting edge, etc. products will solve problems in a new market?). Everyone has a hand in solving this problem and we rise or fall together as a people. This becomes ever so apparent in a virus crisis that sees no differences between people, races, religions, education, income, or any other man made construct.
President Donald Trump offers an air of calm to a nervous nation. It is a time of necessity and a lot of partial information, unknowns, and misinformation has flooded the airways. At the end of the day, with the current WTO rates of virus transference our economic system is likely to continue forward in the long run; unless something changes. Our essential systems and supply chain are not impacted from a structural standpoint. Yet, the spike in demand does create unexpected problems for people who have families and need to shop normally.
A little reflection on your true needs would be helpful here....
The food supply system is designed to meet "normal" demands. However, hoarding and panic strip the shelves clean of basic necessities. Even with the COVID-19 there doesn't appear to be at this time any reason to close stores (unless to restock). Life should continue on as "normal" as possible under new safety measures.
We need to be diligent against the virus and diligent in helping our community members.
We create some of our own problems. Some of us think about others and some of us don't (Essentially, the same problem from the beginning of mankind). The elderly, mothers, families and others might be left without the basics (i.e. empty bread shelves or no masks for the sick/elderly) if we all push others out of the way!
A few things you should think about before you load your cart! 🤔
1. Can you conserve? Disposable masks can be used over and over. Toilet paper can be opted a little more sparingly. You can switch from paper towels to old fashion cloth towels. Think more about what it means to protect your environment through better conservation practices. Try and limit waste and explore repeat use products when stores are out.
2. Its time to think long term for the next time a virus breaks out. Its wise to have a couple of weeks of extra canned/dry food in the house. If people have a little surplus they don't need to rush to the store. The extra cushion can help you in all types of situations beyond COVID-19. Now might not be the time to swipe the shelves clean but it could be the time to create a future plan.
3. Just pick up a few extra things. Its ok to pick up a few extra things you might need. It is NOT ok to have a basket of 40 packs of masks, all the canned food you can get your hands on, and 30 rolls of paper towel. Think in terms of days. What do you really need per day and pick up a few extra days each time you go to the store. It could help limit supply shocks and bring you great awareness of your consumption habits.
From a national standpoint we can slow but not stop such viruses; at least until a vaccine is created. We can think about minimizing its impact and good hygiene. The changes in FDA testing means that research can go to trial much faster. Faster trials mean faster solutions!. They may be testing different strains of virus to see if any can produce a vaccine that will work on COVID-19. It takes time to grow, test and see the results of clinical trials. Our job is to do our best to slow down the spread through self-awareness, washing hands, and minimizing large social gatherings. Article on new rules and testing trials.
You may want to look at the WHO interactive map of the virus spread. https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/685d0ace521648f8a5beeeee1b9125cd
State of Michigan offers information on the virus and their policies....
www.Michigan.gov/coronavirus
Saturday, March 14, 2020
CDC Announces Chart For People To Determine Cold or COVID-19
You have the sniffles and you wonder if you have the COVID-19. Not all of us really know so following the chart helps us sort it out. When you first notice you are getting a fever and coughing a lot you may want to don a mask. They are only about 70% effective but using masks to cover your mouth if your in public can go a long way. No one needs 40 large packs of masks. You can reuse them for the most part until they break. Being a "hoarder" is going to cause more harm than good. Save masks for people who have colds and those who have to work with the elderly.
Friday, March 13, 2020
President Donald Trump Declares an National Emergency COVID-19
President Trump announced emergency measures designed to improve response effectiveness, new temporary powers HHS, additional resources, and maximum flexibility. Encouraging telehealth, speeding up testing, FDA streamlining, new tests, better information, etc... You can listen/watch to below...
.
.
Tuesday, March 10, 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates by LARA and Governor Whitmer
03/12/2020 State Recommendations & COVID-19 Response Update
Dear Licensees & Stakeholders:
Thank you for being a valuable partner in our efforts to combat the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). Following the announcement of the state’s first presumptive positive cases of COVID-19, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) are providing recommendations designed to help prevent the spread of the virus.
These recommendations apply at the individual, organizational, and community levels. They apply to businesses, workplaces, schools, community organizations, health care institutions, and individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and health profiles; everyone has an important role to play. Please take a moment to review the Interim Recommendations to Mitigate the Spread of COVID-19 (March 11, 2020).
Information about this outbreak is changing rapidly. You can stay informed by regularly visiting Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
Sincerely,
Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
|
03/11/20 LARA Notice on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) is providing the following information as it relates to the state’s Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) preparedness and response. Please feel free to share this communication with your colleagues and contacts:
As you know, a global outbreak of a respiratory disease named Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) started in China in late 2019. The virus has been detected in more than 90 countries, including the U.S. There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Michigan. However, the situation is rapidly evolving and it is likely we will see more cases across the U.S.
The State of Michigan has been working with federal and local partners to monitor the situation, develop and expand laboratory testing, educate and raise awareness, and prepare for COVID-19 in Michigan.
- On February 3, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) activated the Community Health Emergency Coordination Center (CHECC) to support state and local response.
- On February 28, Governor Whitmer activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) to coordinate state government resources.
- On March 3, Governor Whitmer announced the creation of four task forces to combat the spread of coronavirus and assess the impact it may have on Michiganders’ day-to-day lives.
Today, the overall threat to the general public and in the U.S. remains low, but we are approaching this emerging threat to public health with an abundance of caution. As our partner, we want you to have appropriate information on what individuals can do to protect themselves.
Use good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases.
- Stay home if you are sick, and advise others to do the same.
- Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and warm water are not available.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.).
It’s not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season.
Review travel advisories before planning travel.
Always review travel advisories from the federal government when planning personal and business travel. Review CDC.gov/Travel for destinations with risk of community spread of COVID-19
Take action to prepare your organization.
Community spread of COVID-19 in Michigan could impact routines and daily operations. Employers should consider creating or updating their infectious disease outbreak response plan including:
- Identify work-related exposure and health risks to employees.
- Review human resources policies to make sure policies and practices are consistent with public health recommendations.
- Explore policies and practices for flexible worksites or hours to increase physical distance between employees.
- Identify essential business functions to maintain operations if interruptions to supply chains or increased absenteeism occur.
The CDC has provided guidance for preventing the spread of COVID-19 in communities including businesses, community- and faith-based organizations, and childcare organizations and schools.
Share accurate information.
Always share accurate information about a virus and how it spreads. It is important to remember that stigma and discrimination occur when people associate an infectious disease, such as COVID-19, with a population or nationality. COVID-19 does not target people from specific populations, ethnicities or racial background. Suspected discrimination can be reported to the Michigan Department of Civil Rights.
LARA’s scheduled meetings and hearings will proceed as scheduled. Check our website regularly for updates in the event that board meetings, work group meetings, or case hearings are changed or rescheduled based on new developments.
This is a rapidly evolving situation. For the latest information frequently visit, Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or CDC.gov/Coronavirus
Sincerely,
Linda Clegg, Interim Director
Corporations, Securities, and Commercial Licensing Bureau
Video of Jumping Seals
A sign of improved ecosystem health is its wildlife diversity. It looks a group is training seals. Kind of cool to watch!
Sunday, March 8, 2020
Boats in the Bay- Emerging Battery Technology can Help Our Environment
Our environment is under increasing pressure to move to new technological platforms that seek to minimize waste and create a level of homeostasis with our environment. Battery technology, renewable energies, alternative energy sources, biodegradable products and more are likely to transform our environment in ways we haven't thought of yet. We also have a lot of science and research in protecting our lands and the species that live within them. As our environment puts pressures on us and the cost rises, we will change to meet those challenges. The health of our bays, waterways, oceans, forests and planet will become synonymous with our own survival. New technologies allow us to reverse pollution and with a stroke of luck start to rejuvenate toxic environments. New science in battery technology make their way into the boating community and begin the process of transforming an industry. Solar powered boats that can keep going around the globe with no pollution? Improvement of solar power and batteries would make that happen! Waiting...waiting....waiting.... You may want to read up on the latest battery research HERE.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)