President Trump, FDA and V.P. Pence gave updates on the fight against COVID. You can see some of the highlights below. There is continual movement with states to find new solutions. We are moving toward the the later part of the game agains Covid-19. Its not going to completely disappear for some time but will likely settle down and be less destructive.
Time and research is our friend. With enough effort we can find solutions to problems in the same way we have with other major pandemics. The FDA helps protect people but during a crisis situation by streamlining new solutions. We can often find ways to strengthen our immune systems but sometimes viruses are elusive to "cure all's".
I can say from the briefing it seems like there is an attempt to learn from the variability in the states to create best national practices. In addition, you can see that there is significant work occurring between academia, industry and government. Furthermore, you grasp the different types of virtual tracking systems, apps, websites, etc...that were designed to handle this issue.
We should learn from variability and encourage multiple evidence based practices in states to find the most viable solutions.
One Mission and One Team!
President Trump Highlights:
-New cases in New York are down 50%. Other numbers are declining as well.
-Fatalities are down 40%.
-Half of people live in states that are starting to open up.
-A lot of talent from the top to the bottom.
-Greater than ever before. Tremendous upward shift!
-Extra help to minorities and businesses.
-80 million Americans have received payments. CARES Act.
-Federal Deficit will about around 4T.
-Other nations are asking for ventilators.
-10K ventilators extra.
-Believes the our economy will be stronger than before.
-First home kits were approved by FDA.
-18K employees of FDA working on medical solutions.
-FDA worked with academics and maintained strong standards. They were able to speed up the normal process that would take for years in a very short time period.
-72 Trials are on way to develop therapeutics.
V.P. Pence:
-V.P. Pence discusses meeting with 50 governors and the increasing of testing.
-V.P. Pence indicates that there will be an increase because we will test more.
-There seems to be agreement that Federal government deals with national supply chains and governors work on implementing and expanding testing.
Friday, April 24, 2020
Governor Whitmer Extends Executive Order With Some Businesses and Activities Starting to Re-Open
The new order by Governor Gretchen Whitmer opens up sectors of the Michigan economy and some of the recreational activities people enjoy. It is being done in a measured fashion that can be rolled back if necessary (depending on infections/effectiveness). People are going to be happy that some semblance of life will continue forward and some businesses can think of how to open with curbside services. That makes a difference in how confined people feel and could impact perceptions of hope "light at end of tunnel".
We also see that the order is much more detailed than previous orders. It may be that Governor Whitmer is seeking to reduce previous confusion. As we become more aware of the effects and implications of Covid-19 we may also have more exact orders that limit misinterpretation. This is a natural progression in any process of understanding a complex issue and giving directions to others.
What you may notice is that everyone should be wearing something over their face when going into stores and other public places. This may be an attempt to test people working with masks to see if infections rise, stay the same, or continue to decline. If it works well now there may be opening up of other types of businesses in 14 days.
The same thing can be said about curbside pick up and deliveries. This means that stores can start opening to create some cash flow. Those businesses that can master this pre-order, get together, and sell on the curbside will likely be in a better place when this is over. It works best when businesses have websites and e-commerce strategies. People want convenience and curbside pick-up could be an added value service. It might open up a few more jobs for young people that want tip money (like a server).
What you don't see is restaurants re-opening. However, there may be an opportunity for these places to start doing deliveries, selling prepared food in groceries, and other places. That could work if they make a partnership with such places. There are many grocers that want to sell ethnic and local foods to their customers.
Highlights include.....
-Everyone must wear masks when inside stores. Businesses may consider not serving customers.
-Non-essential businesses may open with curb side service. (See details below).
-Bike shops, golf, outdoor recreation, boating, etc... is open again.
-Social distance is needed by everyone.
-Order is until May 15th which is the "gaiting" period recommended by the Federal Government.
-Non-Essential law garden and other items are now open to purchase.
-Orders are in participation with regional governors. Governors Mike DeWine (OH), Tony Evers (WI), Tim Walz (MN), JB Pritzker (IL), Eric Holcomb (IN), and Andy Beshear (KY) will work in close coordination to reopen the economy in the Midwest region.
I would be neglectful if I didn't mention that these changes don't work in isolation but are in conjunction with Federal activities and frameworks. You can see some of those activities of President Trump and the White House HERE. Parties are working together and that is exactly what crisis leadership is about (A whole over topic).
The video will likely provide an easier to understand summary. However if you are a business you may want to check out the actual order for details. As they say, "The devil is in the details".....
The actual executive order is below.....
We also see that the order is much more detailed than previous orders. It may be that Governor Whitmer is seeking to reduce previous confusion. As we become more aware of the effects and implications of Covid-19 we may also have more exact orders that limit misinterpretation. This is a natural progression in any process of understanding a complex issue and giving directions to others.
What you may notice is that everyone should be wearing something over their face when going into stores and other public places. This may be an attempt to test people working with masks to see if infections rise, stay the same, or continue to decline. If it works well now there may be opening up of other types of businesses in 14 days.
The same thing can be said about curbside pick up and deliveries. This means that stores can start opening to create some cash flow. Those businesses that can master this pre-order, get together, and sell on the curbside will likely be in a better place when this is over. It works best when businesses have websites and e-commerce strategies. People want convenience and curbside pick-up could be an added value service. It might open up a few more jobs for young people that want tip money (like a server).
What you don't see is restaurants re-opening. However, there may be an opportunity for these places to start doing deliveries, selling prepared food in groceries, and other places. That could work if they make a partnership with such places. There are many grocers that want to sell ethnic and local foods to their customers.
Highlights include.....
-Everyone must wear masks when inside stores. Businesses may consider not serving customers.
-Non-essential businesses may open with curb side service. (See details below).
-Bike shops, golf, outdoor recreation, boating, etc... is open again.
-Social distance is needed by everyone.
-Order is until May 15th which is the "gaiting" period recommended by the Federal Government.
-Non-Essential law garden and other items are now open to purchase.
-Orders are in participation with regional governors. Governors Mike DeWine (OH), Tony Evers (WI), Tim Walz (MN), JB Pritzker (IL), Eric Holcomb (IN), and Andy Beshear (KY) will work in close coordination to reopen the economy in the Midwest region.
I would be neglectful if I didn't mention that these changes don't work in isolation but are in conjunction with Federal activities and frameworks. You can see some of those activities of President Trump and the White House HERE. Parties are working together and that is exactly what crisis leadership is about (A whole over topic).
The video will likely provide an easier to understand summary. However if you are a business you may want to check out the actual order for details. As they say, "The devil is in the details".....
The actual executive order is below.....
President Trump Discusses COVID, Research, and Solutions!
The COVID-19 Situation for the nation is improving. The amount of deaths expected and experienced are two different things. Sure....there could be some projection issues but it isn't hard to look at and graph the death rates in other countries to see where we fit. While I haven't looked it appears to be that we have a much lower rate and managed the situation well.
The large research database is hugely important. They are using AI (which is super cool) to evaluate and assess all of the studies for connections, associations, and variables that can often lead to new studies. Once these connections and associations are created one can then move on to design better more accurate studies that are most likely to succeed.
Furthermore, the plan put together by the Federal government with flexibility for the states is important. Some of the best systems that survive have this sort of stronger central aspect but softer specific applications that allow for catered responses. One size doesn't always fit all in all circumstances but without a central guide some local leaders may be short sighted.
Good news came out about the benefits of summer, UV rays, bleach and alcohol, warm whether, etc....and its potential impact on the virus. This means we have found ways to limit its effects, spread, etc... so it is possible to use UV light to shine on certain aspects of our supply chain (i.e. Amazon, UPS) to ensure packages are clean. The same concepts may be able to be adapted in other places.
Congress (and Senate) also passed the PPP money that is needed for many small businesses. We are at a point where things are going to start opening so it may have been enough to keep these businesses alive. I suspect that our system will reboot fairly quickly and rebound once we are fully open. With luck we will be able to surpass the economic platforms we had before.
Notes:
-PPP is expected to pass $320 billion in relief.
-30 Billion to help distressed communities like African American and other minorities.
-The virus does better in colder and dryer versus warmer and more humid.
-46 states showed drops in new cases.
-39 million N95Masks
-52K studies and technology firms are now in a database. There is constant searches for new solutions using AI.
-4.9 million tests across America.
-Discuss and learn from methods Governors are using to test.
-Elective surveys to start back up.
-16 States released formal opening plans.
-Homeland security is studying countermeasures for COVID-19.
-Sunlight kills the virus. Can reduce half life in humid and warm whether. Both bleach and alcohol works well.
The large research database is hugely important. They are using AI (which is super cool) to evaluate and assess all of the studies for connections, associations, and variables that can often lead to new studies. Once these connections and associations are created one can then move on to design better more accurate studies that are most likely to succeed.
Furthermore, the plan put together by the Federal government with flexibility for the states is important. Some of the best systems that survive have this sort of stronger central aspect but softer specific applications that allow for catered responses. One size doesn't always fit all in all circumstances but without a central guide some local leaders may be short sighted.
Good news came out about the benefits of summer, UV rays, bleach and alcohol, warm whether, etc....and its potential impact on the virus. This means we have found ways to limit its effects, spread, etc... so it is possible to use UV light to shine on certain aspects of our supply chain (i.e. Amazon, UPS) to ensure packages are clean. The same concepts may be able to be adapted in other places.
Congress (and Senate) also passed the PPP money that is needed for many small businesses. We are at a point where things are going to start opening so it may have been enough to keep these businesses alive. I suspect that our system will reboot fairly quickly and rebound once we are fully open. With luck we will be able to surpass the economic platforms we had before.
Notes:
-PPP is expected to pass $320 billion in relief.
-30 Billion to help distressed communities like African American and other minorities.
-The virus does better in colder and dryer versus warmer and more humid.
-46 states showed drops in new cases.
-39 million N95Masks
-52K studies and technology firms are now in a database. There is constant searches for new solutions using AI.
-4.9 million tests across America.
-Discuss and learn from methods Governors are using to test.
-Elective surveys to start back up.
-16 States released formal opening plans.
-Homeland security is studying countermeasures for COVID-19.
-Sunlight kills the virus. Can reduce half life in humid and warm whether. Both bleach and alcohol works well.
Thursday, April 23, 2020
Bergman Supports PPP Extension, Additional Funding for Rural Hospitals
Washington - Today, the House voted 388-5 on H.R. 266, the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act. Rep. Bergman spoke on the House floor in support of the bill and highlighted the specific needs of rural small businesses and health care providers. Rep. Bergman issued the following statement:
"After nearly two weeks of needless delay, today we brought this important legislation across the finish line in the House to ensure the Paycheck Protection Program has additional funding. First District workers, small businesses, and rural hospitals are struggling in the wake of the Coronavirus crisis. This legislation gives small businesses and hospitals across the First District access to economic relief as their lives and livelihoods are impacted by the health and economic strains we are facing," said Rep. Bergman.
The Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act includes:
The Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act includes:
- $310 billion additional for the Paycheck Protection Program;
- Including $30 billion in guaranteed loans for lenders with less than $10 billion in assets.
- $10 billion Economic Injury Disaster loans;
- $50 billion for the Disaster Loans Program Account;
- Provisions to include small farm businesses in the EIDL program;
- $75 billion for reimbursements to hospitals and healthcare providers to support the need for COVID-19 related expenses and lost revenue;
- $825 million for Community Health Centers and rural health clinics
- $25 billion to expand COVID-19 testing capacity; specifically:
- $11 billion for states, localities, territories, and tribes to develop, purchase, administer, process, and analyze COVID-19 tests, scale-up laboratory capacity, trace contacts, and support employer testing. Funds are also made available to employers for testing.
- $1 billion provided to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for surveillance, epidemiology, laboratory capacity expansion, contact tracing, public health data surveillance, and analytics infrastructure modernization.
- $1.8 billion provided to the National Institutes of Health to develop, validate, improve, and implement testing and associated technologies; to accelerate research, development, and implementation of point-of-care and other rapid testing; and for partnerships with governmental and non-governmental entities to research, develop, and implement the activities.
- $1 billion for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority for advanced research, development, manufacturing, production, and purchase of diagnostic, serologic, or other COVID-19 tests or related supplies.
- $22 million for the Food and Drug Administration to support activities associated with diagnostic, serological, antigen, and other tests, and related administrative activities.
Governor Whitmer Discusses Possible New Orders to Re-Open State's Economy
An interview today briefly discusses Governor Whitmer's plan to issue a new order to open the economy. What you do hear her say is that it will be rolled out in stages (waves) that can be rolled forward or backward depending on circumstances. My guess is that this is similar to the Federal system. I would also suspect that it would be based by industry type and by locality. That of course would be matched with other types of metrics like testing, cases and capacity.
Using Tourism to Enhance Small Downtowns of Escanaba and Gladstone
Many American towns are starting to look a little drab and have that droopy worn out retro image that gives the impression the best days were well behind them! With some elbow grease leaders can take actions that lead to vibrant, business oriented, and attractive main streets. Developing healthy small business districts rests in part on enhancing local culture by thinking about business strategy and its impact on attracting visitors to the district.
While there are many components to creating strong downtowns, enhancing tourism and tourist businesses has a positive net effect on the local economy. We also have opportunities to improve manufacturing and resource extraction that are outside the scope of this article (Will be discussed in more detail in another article). Using research and success stories from other towns we can learn to apply them to Escanaba and Gladstone.
The design of downtowns is vital to the life and energy of small cities. With progressive downtown strategies these areas can have a positive net draw of visitors, investment and businesses. According to a study of tourist and recreational town of Ashville in the Western North Carolina mountains, the use of marketing and tourist development strategies increased overnight visitors in a way that enhanced local life through increased revenue (Stroma & Kersteinb, 2015).
From a tourism perspective, people who spend the night in the area also frequent shops, eat dinner, and spend their disposable income. A night in a local hotel often has a per night dollar value associated with it. New visitors and tourists mean more money to the downtown area and new businesses that want to tap tourist money (i.e. less empty store fronts).
The study highlights four components of downtown growth in their case study:
1. Research Your Tourism Market: Synthesize tourism area life cycle and tourism research approaches. Continuing to understand seasonal fluctuations in tourism in vacation destinations and connecting research can lead to enhanced marketing and tourism retention strategies. One way this may function is to not only to continually improve on marketing strategies to further increase ROI (i.e. neuroeconomics and psychographics) but also enhance tourist time/dollars spent in local establishments.
Stroma, E. & Kersteinb, R. (May, 2015). Mountains and muses: Tourism development in Asheville, North Carolina. Annals of Tourism Research, 52,pp. 134-147 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.annals.2015.03.006
This is part of a larger work that fits within a bigger economic theory. You may want to review another article on attracting SME to Delta County. http://www.academic-capital.net/2020/04/attracting-sme-adventure-venture.html
While there are many components to creating strong downtowns, enhancing tourism and tourist businesses has a positive net effect on the local economy. We also have opportunities to improve manufacturing and resource extraction that are outside the scope of this article (Will be discussed in more detail in another article). Using research and success stories from other towns we can learn to apply them to Escanaba and Gladstone.
The design of downtowns is vital to the life and energy of small cities. With progressive downtown strategies these areas can have a positive net draw of visitors, investment and businesses. According to a study of tourist and recreational town of Ashville in the Western North Carolina mountains, the use of marketing and tourist development strategies increased overnight visitors in a way that enhanced local life through increased revenue (Stroma & Kersteinb, 2015).
From a tourism perspective, people who spend the night in the area also frequent shops, eat dinner, and spend their disposable income. A night in a local hotel often has a per night dollar value associated with it. New visitors and tourists mean more money to the downtown area and new businesses that want to tap tourist money (i.e. less empty store fronts).
The study highlights four components of downtown growth in their case study:
1. Research Your Tourism Market: Synthesize tourism area life cycle and tourism research approaches. Continuing to understand seasonal fluctuations in tourism in vacation destinations and connecting research can lead to enhanced marketing and tourism retention strategies. One way this may function is to not only to continually improve on marketing strategies to further increase ROI (i.e. neuroeconomics and psychographics) but also enhance tourist time/dollars spent in local establishments.
2.Community Spaces: Effective use of public space enhances the community and aesthetic appeal of the downtown. People visit where they feel vibrant and alive! That includes anything from "walkability", bike paths into downtown, community areas, mini parks, food courts, and much more. What and how is dependent on the tourism genre, local culture and physical limitations of the area.
3. Downtown Branding: Branding the downtown with local culture in mind. Few people want to visit a "hodge podge" locality of confusing themes and activities. They want to immerse themselves in a local culture of fun, lively activities that co-mingle with a great shopping experience. Considering a general theme (i.e. Yooper or Eskimo) throughout the downtown can do much to raise its stature among tourist communities. The long term goal would be make it a "trendy" place for Millenials to travel, eat, shop and build businesses.
4. Local Governance Structures: Officials and entities like Downtown Development Authorities and local city government should focus part of their effort on rebuilding their downtown districts. Coordinated effort in drawing investments into the area and opening up new businesses in empty store fronts is essential to re-emergence. This may mean working with tourism experts and economists to ensure maximize enhancement of opportunities.
Stroma, E. & Kersteinb, R. (May, 2015). Mountains and muses: Tourism development in Asheville, North Carolina. Annals of Tourism Research, 52,pp. 134-147 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.annals.2015.03.006
This is part of a larger work that fits within a bigger economic theory. You may want to review another article on attracting SME to Delta County. http://www.academic-capital.net/2020/04/attracting-sme-adventure-venture.html
Federal Government and President Trump Coordinate to Help Michigan
There has been a great amount of coordination between the Federal Government and the State of Michigan so that both entities are working to help their people. While it was a little tense from time-to-time, I must say that involved parties rose to the occasion and we now see ourselves on the COVID-19 decline. We are moving forward into calmer waters and have a chance to do profound things that no other nation can. It is OUR moment in history!
I want to share something that was sent to me that helps highlight how working together and coordination leads to higher outcomes. Whether one is Democrat, Republican, or Independent we are one people, one nation, and have one destiny! We need leaders that are capable of understanding a shared sense of national purpose!
#TrumpLeadsMI
I want to share something that was sent to me that helps highlight how working together and coordination leads to higher outcomes. Whether one is Democrat, Republican, or Independent we are one people, one nation, and have one destiny! We need leaders that are capable of understanding a shared sense of national purpose!
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