Author: Nina Davis

I highly recommend this article—The Unraveling of America: Anthropologist Wade Davis on how COVID-19 signals the end of the American era  8/6/20. It is not a short read, but I find it to be devastatingly on point.  Count after count, the analysis leaves me reeling.  I wish I could argue the conclusions, but they ring true in every case.

From the article:

For the first time, the international community felt compelled to send disaster relief to Washington. For more than two centuries, reported the Irish Times, the United States has stirred a very wide range of feelings in the rest of the world: love and hatred, fear and hope, envy and contempt, awe and anger. But there is one emotion that has never been directed towards the U.S. until now: pity. As American doctors and nurses eagerly awaited emergency airlifts of basic supplies from China, the hinge of history opened to the Asian century.
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COVID-19 didn’t lay America low; it simply revealed what had long been forsaken. As the crisis unfolded, with another American dying every minute of every day, a country that once turned out fighter planes by the hour could not manage to produce the paper masks or cotton swabs essential for tracking the disease. The nation that defeated smallpox and polio, and led the world for generations in medical innovation and discovery, was reduced to a laughing stock as a buffoon of a president advocated the use of household disinfectants as a treatment for a disease that intellectually he could not begin to understand.

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The American cult of the individual denies not just community but the very idea of society. No one owes anything to anyone. All must be prepared to fight for everything: education, shelter, food, medical care. What every prosperous and successful democracy deems to be fundamental rights — universal health care, equal access to quality public education, a social safety net for the weak, elderly, and infirmed — America dismisses as socialist indulgences, as if so many signs of weakness.

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For better or for worse, America has had its time.

Click here to read the entire article–

https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/political-commentary/covid-19-end-of-american-era-wade-davis-1038206/?fbclid=IwAR0G0apNGbhnCnfvy_JJxXBd7DIQJT9_oNpOi5l0KWO_J-mvGJ1gx1w8YwY

Well, after that, a lighter read is definitely needed, and this one has very practical info on floor fans, vented masks, gloves, how to sanitize surfaces, and more.

UC Davis experts detail common mistakes about COVID-19  https://health.ucdavis.edu/health-news/newsroom/uc-davis-experts-detail-common-mistakes-about-covid-19/2020/07

As always, my Covid-19 page has links to articles added daily, on all aspects of the pandemic.

In the US

The Democratic presidential ticket will be Joe Biden-Kamala Harris, and decisive steps have already been announced to guide the nation out of the pandemic swamp it has been mired in for months longer than other affluent countries.

Nation-wide, our always inadequate testing has dropped in recent weeks.  (That is particularly true in Texas.) There is no good reason for this, and it seems to be due hints/suggestions/orders from the White House to slow down testing in order to hide the true scope of infections.  Coming as this does when schools are being ordered to open for in-person learning or face loss of funding, it is clear our children and school staffers are being played as political pawns.

‘We’re Clearly Not Doing Enough’: Drop in Testing Hampers Coronavirus Response 8/15/20 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/15/us/coronavirus-testing-decrease.html

Coronavirus testing in Texas plummets as schools prepare to reopen  8/10/20 https://www.texastribune.org/2020/08/10/coronavirus-testing-texas/

Shamelessly, the White House has mounted a blatant attack on the US Postal Service, stating publicly that reductions in staff, overtime, equipment and overall funding will make it impossible for USPS to deliver mail-in ballots in November.  Citizens will be forced to choose between exercising their right to vote and staying safe from COVID-19.

Postal Crisis Ripples Across Nation as Election Looms  8/15/20 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/15/us/post-office-vote-by-mail.html

In Texas 

So far, August numbers for cases, hospitalizations and deaths seem better than we suffered through in July.  Unfortunately, the operative word is “seem.”  The state site has been plagued with glitches, backlogs of data, lost data, suspiciously found data, changed-in-how-it-is-reported data, and overall nonsensical results.  For instance, the testing positivity rate rose steadily from a July 30 low of 12% to a high on Aug. 12 of 24%.  (Keep in mind that the goal is 2%, and 5% is dangerous.)  Then, the state announced it “found” a backlog of 124,000 test results; adding those in, the positivity rate immediately dropped to 16%.  Even if ALL those 124,000 mystery tests were somehow negative, the rate would not have dropped that much.

Texas officials blame coding errors and a system update for recent COVID-19 testing data issues  8/14/20 https://www.texastribune.org/2020/08/14/texas-coronavirus-testing-dshs/

At this point, the data is unreliable, whether due to the White House-mandated shift in reporting or other factors.  Related to that, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), where hospitals suddenly send data now, instead of to the CDC, had its director abruptly resign last week, no reason given.  THAT has a familiar stench….

HHS chief information officer abruptly resigns 8/14/20 https://www.politico.com/news/2020/08/14/hhs-chief-information-officer-abruptly-resigns-395710

In Lakeway

The Lake Travis Community Library closed last week, due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19.  Since re-opening in late May for curbside pick-up only, they were doing a lovely job, with patrons being able to reserve books and DVDs online then pick them up safely.  This service helped many people get back a bit of normalcy back, and it is greatly missed.

Council had its first true budget meeting on Aug. 2.  The mayor was clearly ready to raise taxes, and all the council members followed her lead.  Paltry attention was given to budget cutting or pulling from the contingency fund.  Instead, a consensus was reached on adding at least 4 new city positions and increasing services in several areas, paid for with a tax increase.  They justified this by saying a homeowner’s Lakeway property tax bill would only increase by $50 or so. 

But, of course, that is NOT the end of the story—far from it.  Lakeway is just 1 of several entities that levy tax on our real property.  The biggest share by far of the property taxes we pay goes to the schools/LTISD.  Then, Travis County takes a big chunk.  Then, the MUD you happen to be in takes a bite.  Finally, the health district office and EMS take funds.   Just look at your property tax bill to see these entities and their share of your taxes.  You can bet that all of these entities are also considering whether to raise the tax rate on us and by how much.  The $50 extra Lakeway will slap us with is just the beginning.  All told, once each entity hits us up more money, every Lakeway homeowner could get a property tax bill that is several hundreds of dollars higher than last year.

Most of us, whether retirees or young families, are facing extra expenses now, in addition to reduced, uncertain or completely missing income.  Even the cost of groceries has increased and will continue to do so due to effects of the pandemic. 

So, it be nice if Lakeway officials would decide to be part of the solution, by holding the tax rate or even reducing it during the pandemic as other local cities are doing.  Instead, it looks like Lakeway will just be part of the problem, as usual.

Council meets Monday, Aug. 17, at 6:30pm.  Another online meeting, this one is primarily dedicated to budget issues.  They will likely vote to raise our property taxes at this meeting.  In addition, Legends has 3 items (change in preliminary plan, annexation, and zoning) on the agenda; Council will rubber-stamp them as always, and Legends will continue to clear-cut pristine land in Rough Hollow, turning it into hundreds of tract homes as cheaply as possible in accordance with decades-old regulations, per its sweetheart deal with City of Lakeway.  Go here to see the Agenda and Meeting Packet for Aug. 17–https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/archive.aspx

If you want to make a public comment, you must arrange it before the meeting. To send written comments to Council and/or request to speak at the meeting, go here and create a Public Comment Form—https://lakeway-tx.civicweb.net/Portal/CitizenEngagement.aspx

Go here to watch the meeting online, live or after the fact— https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1062/Videos—Meetings-Events

Back to me….

To be candid, I’m feeling pretty negative lately.  It isn’t just that the pandemic issues are going on for so long.  But, IT DIDN’T HAVE TO BE THIS WAY, and that is what gets to me.  Other countries reacted well to the pandemic, took the steps experts suggested to safeguard the populace, and are now enjoying a careful return to society AND recovered economies.  Then, there is America, still wallowing in COVID-19, due to it’s own craven stupidity.

Well, over the last couple weeks, I made a trip to Walmart for essentials and was happily surprised to find everyone wearing a mask (correctly, for the most part).  I highly recommend timing shopping expeditions for Tuesday mornings—fewer folks are out, and they seem to be the sane ones….   I love HEB’s pharmacy for heartworm pills for my cats (cheapest rate available); a nice bonus now is that they deliver free of charge, as well.  Best of all, I made the initial visit to a new dentist, Eaddy Dentistry in Lakeway Commons (new for me—they have been in Lakeway for many years).  It felt odd to take my mask off around people, but their scrupulous attention to safety was reassuring, and I was pleased with quick and professional handling of x-rays, exam, and cleaning.

Oops, I lied—best of all was celebrating the 13^th anniversary last week with my senior kitty, Maxie.  She was born in a shelter on Maui, and every last thing imaginable about our lives has changed since she joined the family in 2007.  She loves belly-rubs and being brushed, gives great hugs, dances around like a ballerina, has a very distinctive voice and the wisest eyes, and effortlessly keeps her 2 little sisters in line.  She’s a doll….

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Also, the deer I see on my early morning walks now are stunning.  The herd is grouping together already, the bucks joining up with the does, fawns and yearlings.  This seems to happen earlier every year.

Here are some of my favorite recent photos, including a nice showcase for camera-loving bucks.  Enjoy!

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Perspective is key….. 

Worldwide, confirmed cases surged past the 20 million mark on August 9.

In the US, confirmed cases flew past 5 million on August 6.  Deaths total over 172,000 and average well over 1,000 Americans per day.  

In Texas, the data reliability issue was discussed above.  Confirmed cases in Texas surged over the 500,000 mark on Aug. 11.  Sadly, Texas is still reporting triple digit deaths every day.  324 deaths on Aug. 12 was a record daily loss, but 200-300 Texans reported dead each day has been the norm in August.  As of today, 9,983 Texans have died of COVID-19. 

I’m not sure why August 1 seemed like a major landmark, but even The Texas Tribune thought so.  Its article chronicling the last several months is valuable, if only as a cautionary reminder of how often we underestimated COVID-19 and did exactly the wrong thing–Here’s how the COVID-19 pandemic has unfolded in Texas since March  7/31/20 https://www.texastribune.org/2020/07/31/coronavirus-timeline-texas/

As more and more states are overrun with infection, whether for the first or the second time, the best take I have seen on an effective response is this proposal by the Association of American Medical Colleges–The Way Forward on COVID-19  7/29/20 https://www.aamc.org/covidroadmap/roadmap

Another great response is this July 22 open letter to national and state political leaders, signed by hundreds of health professionals-–https://uspirg.org/news/usp/top-healthcare-professionals-send-letter-us-leaders-saying-it%E2%80%99s-time-shut-back-down-start

As always, my Covid-19 page has links to articles added daily, on all aspects of the pandemic.

In the US

Putting the November election aside (as if anyone can do that….), the biggest issue now seems to be whether, when and how to re-open schools for in-person learning.  To be sure, I don’t have school-age kids, but my view is that we just don’t know enough about COVID-19 to open schools in the immediate future. There is a reason that “novel” is part of the formal name of this virus–it is new and unknown. This virus has been a step ahead of even our best experts, surprising them time and time again, and always for the worse. We are now starting to understand that people who recover (even those who had a “light” case) often have long-term, possibly permanent, complications. Children DO get seriously ill and die from COVID-19.  Plus, kids cannot be relied on to mask and social distance; they spread everything to the adults around them, and they will spread this virus to their families and to school support staff. Opening schools in areas with uncontrolled infection rates (5% or higher) would simply be an experiment, and experimenting on our kids and educational staff is wrong.  Finally, opening schools will expose entire communities to possible (likely?) super-spreader events that could wreak havoc, starting with our medical resources.  The best treatment of these issues I have seen is here—Why Is There No Consensus About Reopening Schools?  7/29/20 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/29/magazine/schools-reopening-covid.html

In Texas 

The Texas Medical Association provided this chart, for those who have been exposed to COVID-19, have symptoms, and/or were tested and are waiting for results.  It shows what to do and for how long.  In Texas and across the country, otherwise functioning adults don’t seem to understand these basic concepts and are exposing others instead of isolating themselves.

In Lakeway

Council’s July 26 meeting included a big disappointment for those of us looking forward to robust selection of city officials at November elections, instead of the old guard controlling the results every May.  It was announced the Charter change proposal that Council approved for this at the previous meeting was a no-go.  After 3 months of deliberations, with the city attorney attending Council meetings and participating in the discussions, he announced that he was informed by his law partner that state law currently does not allow such a change.  This was confirmed by consultation with Travis County Clerk and the Secretary of State’s office.  How in the world did the city attorney not research this previously?  It makes me wonder what else has slipped through the cracks.

Council meets Monday, Aug. 3, at 6:30pm.  Another online meeting, this one is primarily dedicated to budget issues.  (News flash—there’s not enough money.)  Go here to see the Agenda and Meeting Packet for Aug. 3–https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/archive.aspx

If you want to make a public comment, you must arrange it before the meeting. To send written comments to Council and/or request to speak at the meeting, go here and create a Public Comment Form—https://lakeway-tx.civicweb.net/Portal/CitizenEngagement.aspx

Go here to watch the meeting online, live or after the fact—https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1062/Videos—Meetings-Events

Back to me….

Last week, I made my monthly grocery run to HEB.  Everyone I saw wore a mask and at least tried to social distance.  The big excitement was finding Lysol disinfectant spray on the shelf, the first time I have seen that handy item stocked anywhere since February.

The photogenic deer I see on my early morning walks now are vying with my beloved cats as far as providing the highlights of each day for me.  Enjoy!

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Perspective is key….. 

July really did a number on us.

In the US, there were 2,727,853 confirmed cases on June 30. By July 31, there were 4,705,045 confirmed cases.  Last spring, the grim American daily death toll was over 2,000 (mostly from the New York tri-state area).  Then, as the virus was brought under control in the northeast, American deaths dipped to less than 1,000 per day, then well under 500 per day by summer.  In July, that changed, with deaths climbing, exceeding 1,000 per day the second half of the month, going as high as 1,865 on July 28.

In Texas, record daily confirmed case numbers started appearing back in June and continued most of July, with positive testing rates soaring as high as 18%. (2% is the recommended goal, and 5% or higher is dangerous.)  In the entire country, only California, Florida and New York have more cases than Texas.  Texas also had record hospitalization rates, with Houston, Dallas and especially the Rio Grand Valley facilities overwhelmed.  As for daily death rates, Texas not only set records in July, it posted a triple digit total for the first time on July 9 (105 dead) and did the same 15 more days in July; the highest daily deaths figure was 322.  As of June 30, 2,424 Texans had died from Covid-19.  By July 31, 6,569 Texans had died.

Travis County had 9,527 confirmed cases as of June 30.  By July 31, that had more than doubled to 20,745.  Deaths more than doubled as well, going from 124 on June 30 to 274 on July 31.

Locally, Lakeway’s primary zip code of 78734 had 62 cumulative cases reported as of June 30.  By July 31, the number was 202.  (Local hospitalizations and deaths are not reported.)

Also, in what seemed an intentional insult but may have been a cover-up as well, the COVID-19 statistics available to the public and used by officials for planning purposes were tampered with.  If we can’t trust the reported statistics on COVID-19, we are in even worse trouble. Here is one account–

How Many People in the U.S. Are Hospitalized With COVID-19? Who Knows?  7/31/20 The Trump administration told hospitals to stop reporting data to the CDC, and report it to HHS instead. Vice President Mike Pence said the information would continue to be released publicly. It hasn’t worked out as promised. https://www.propublica.org/article/how-many-people-in-the-us-are-hospitalized-with-covid-19-who-knows?utm_source=sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=dailynewsletter&utm_content=feature

Let’s hope August is kinder to us all.

A recent article resonated with me.  Here is how it starts:

“It is still hard to absorb that a virus has reshaped world behavior, halted or altered travel, strained the economy and completely reshaped the nature of public spaces and human interaction.

It is also hard to absorb that this may not be a quickly passing phase, an inconvenience for a season, but something that the world is forced to live with for years, even assuming that a vaccine is soon found.

The idea that years of planning for graduations and weddings, home purchases and retirement, might all come to a screeching halt is humbling and disorienting. The confusion over how and when children can safely return to school and adults can safely return to work is frustrating because it leaves people’s lives in the lurch.

The idea that face coverings and elbow bumps may be the new normal is a shock to the system.

It seems that on multiple levels, society is being tested, and often failing.

People are rebelling against isolation, and against science and public health. They want the old world back, the pre-Covid-19 world back, but it cannot be had. The virus doesn’t feel frustration or react to it. It’s not aware of your children or your job or your vacation plans. It’s not aware of our politics.

The virus is a virus, mindless, and in this case, incredibly efficient and effective. It will pass from person to person for as long as that is possible. The political debate over mask wearing is a human concern, one that works to the virus’s benefit.”

For more, read this article by NY Times columnist Charles M. Blow.  American Horror, Starring Donald Trump  7/12/20 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/12/opinion/coronavirus-donald-trump.html

As always, my Covid-19 page has links to articles added daily, on all aspects of the pandemic.

In the US

Remember back in early spring, when some people assumed COVID-19 would just naturally fade away in summer?  THAT didn’t happen–just another way this is NOT the flu.

Even in the many states where coronavirus is completely out of control, re-opening of schools for in-person classes is being debated. This is largely due to immediate and full opening being demanded by the White House, which stated “Science should not stand in the way of school openings.”  Actually, the opposite is true–scientifically proven methods and clear standards crafted by medical experts should be followed to open schools only as much and when it is safe to do so, in order to safeguard the health of kids, teachers, support staff, their family members, and the entire community.  Nothing has the capacity to be a super-spreader more than our schools.  Obviously, opening depends on infection rates in the area.  (So, the teen parties, crowded beaches, packed bars, and other reckless behavior that resulted in surging infection rates will cause delayed school openings and, by extension, slower economic recovery. There are always consequences to stupidity….)  Also, student age and grade levels are relevant, since student behavior, attention span, subject matter, necessary teacher intervention, etc. vary widely; elementary schools will need to be handled differently from high schools.  Nothing should be based on political tantrums, and the convenience of parents really isn’t a priority, either. Pandemics aren’t fair, and they don’t care what any of us want. Texas and other states are learning that the hard way right now.

This editorial in today’s Statesman got it right– Texas needs to set COVID metrics for school reopening https://www.statesman.com/opinion/20200717/editorial-texas-needs-to-set-covid-metrics-for-school-reopenings

In Texas 

Gov. Abbott still refuses to take the action needed to control coronavirus, after his earlier mistakes sent it on the current rampage.  Turns out even his Republican party is angry with him, for failing to mandate their in-person convention could take place in severely Covid-ravaged Houston and for belatedly requiring masks.  Well, no one likes a coward…

Hospitals across the state are in trouble, many low on ICU beds and others completely full generally and sending patients to distant facilities.  Austin is turning the convention center into surge space.  Many cities have ordered refrigerated trucks, as local morgues are full.

Until a state is handling COVID-19 responsibly with curbed infection rates, well-functioning hospitals, adequate testing, and prompt tracing, the economy won’t recover and businesses will continue to suffer.  That is what makes the abbreviated shutdown Texas did in the spring so infuriating.  We were part-way there, but Abbott chickened out and pulled the plug, opening up the state with abandon and in complete disregard for expert guidance and HIS OWN previously itemized standards.  All our efforts back then were wasted, and we are currently in a far worse situation as far as infection rate, hospitalizations and deaths.   At this point, thanks to so many egregious mistakes and the resultant rebellious public opinion in many parts of the state (extending even to law enforcement), we are so deep into this mess that Abbott’s recent mask requirement and closing of bars is not nearly enough.  Only a full shutdown can stop COVID-19 in Texas now, and that would likely need to be enforced via the National Guard.

The Texas Medical Society provided this chart, for those trying to gauge the risk of various activities.

In Lakeway

At the July 6 Council meeting, they voted for November ballot proposals to revise the Lakeway Charter on 2 key election-related points (as well as several minor issues).  First, a proposal will change the term of service for officials from the current 3 years (which violates the Texas Constitution) back to 2 years; maximum of 6 consecutive years of service is also up approval. Second, voters will get to decide if city elections should move from May (when very low voter turnout allows the old guard to control the results) to November (when people expect to vote, and state and national elections bring up to 75% of registered voters to the polls).  The election will be formally called at the next Council meeting, July 20.  Council could change its mind or tweak the ballot language at that meeting.

Another interesting topic at the July 6 meeting was possible creation of a Health Unit (possibly in cooperation with Bee Cave and/or The Hills), which would work with Austin Public Health.  The hope is that a local office would give access to local data (confirmed cases, hospitalizations, etc.), provide tracing of local outbreaks, and get more and/or free testing set up in our area.  Funding could come from Lakeway’s share of the CARES Act funds (still not released by Travis County).  Council only agreed to investigate this further.

Also, Police Chief Radford gave an extensive report, including statistics on traffic stops by race, use of force, etc., in Lakeway over the last 3 years.

Council meets Monday, July 20, at 6:30pm.  This is another online meeting. Agenda items include finalizing the ballot language and officially calling a Nov. 3 election for Charter changes, plus several other matters.

If you want to make a public comment on these issues, you must arrange it before the meeting. To send written comments to Council and/or request to speak at the meeting, go here and create a Public Comment Form–https://lakeway-tx.civicweb.net/Portal/CitizenEngagement.aspx

Go here to see the Agenda and Meeting Packet for July 20–https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/archive.aspx

Go here to watch the meeting online, live or after the fact—https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1062/Videos—Meetings-Events

Back to me….

The last 2 weeks, I took every precaution against coronavirus infection, in light of the horrific statistics locally.  Even more than I have done the last 4 months, I stayed home.  When I left the house, it was mostly just for early morning walks, and I wore a mask even then. Otherwise, I only did a curbside DVD and book pick-up at the library and a curbside kitty drop-off at the vet of my precious Tulip for an early depo shot (due to a scary allergy situation). 

At least our gorgeous deer are enjoying summer.  The new fawns are mature enough to be out and about with the does now.  I got some fun photos.

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Perspective is key….. 

In the US, 2 weeks ago America had just broken the mark of 3 million cases.  ALREADY, we are approaching the 4 million case mark.  How could that happen?  America now routinely reports over 70,000 new cases each day.  The US death toll, which had dropped since spring (in large part because experience improved our medical response), is starting to surge.

In Texas, 2 weeks ago (on July 6), confirmed cases had just hit 200,000, having taken 17 days to rise to that level from the 100,000 mark that we took several months to reach.  The state took only 11 days to exceed 300,000 cases on July 17.  The number of Texans hospitalized is well over 10,000, and the daily death toll has been in the triple digits most of the past week.  The statewide positivity rate is 16-17% in recent days, and it is as high as 25-30% in specific areas.

Locally, cases are spiking with the rest of the state.  2 weeks ago, there were 159  cases in Lakeway’s zip codes of 78734/78738.  Now, we have 264 cases.

No end in sight….

Loved this article, that asks Dr. Anthony Fauci and other experts how they manage real life during a pandemic (buying groceries, haircuts, mail, masks, plane trips, etc.). How Fauci, 5 other health specialists deal with COVID-19 risks in their everyday lives 7/3/20 https://www.boston.com/news/coronavirus/2020/07/03/how-fauci-5-other-health-specialists-deal-with-covid-19-risks-in-their-everyday-lives

If you aren’t concerned about the current COVID surge in Texas, check out these articles from inside our hospitals.

Houston https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=639&v=LkyXhPYbX0c&feature=emb_title

San Antonio https://www.cnn.com/videos/health/2020/07/02/texas-hospital-crowded-coronavirus-marquez-pkg-newday-vpx.cnn/video/playlists/coronavirus/

Rio Grande Valley https://www.texastribune.org/2020/07/04/texas-coronavirus-rio-grande-valley-hospitals/

As always, my Covid-19 page has links to articles added daily, on all aspects of the pandemic.

In the US

The US continues to fail spectacularly, amassing more cases and deaths than any other country.  European countries that have controlled the virus now ban entry of Americans.

In Texas 

In the last 2 weeks, the spike in COVID cases and hospitalizations has worsened.  Every record—most daily new cases, most hospitalizations, most deaths—was shattered again and again.  The positivity testing rate in major cities (Houston, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio) is 20-25%–the highest in the country.  Last week, Gov. Abbott (finally and far too late) issued a state-wide mask order and limited gatherings to 10 people, as well as closing bars and scaling restaurants back to 50% capacity.  Officials throughout Texas begged residents to stay home and forego 4^th of July gatherings, as hospitals are in surge capacity and predicting even that will be exhausted by mid-July.  Somehow, the Texas Republican convention is still planned to take place IN PERSON in downtown Houston July 16-18.

In Lakeway

A June 20 party was held in Spicewood, with up to 300 local teens (including high school juniors and seniors from Lakeway).  The annual tradition known as “Pongfest” not only featured underage drinking but had several kids in attendance who were exposed to COVID-19, had been tested, and found out soon after the party they were positive for the disease.  Austin Public Health tried to investigate, but known attendees refused to rat out friends at this illicit event.  Even the location and the parents facilitating the event have been kept secret. 

As of June 20, Travis County stats showed 83 positive cases in the 78734 and 78738 zip codes; as of today, in just 2 weeks, that total has doubled, to 167.

The city’s fireworks event was cancelled, and all parks were closed over the long holiday weekend.

Council meets online 6:30pm on Monday, July 6.  The agenda includes another round of discussion on Charter changes to go on the November ballot.  This may well be the final vote on a proposal to fix that pesky problem of Lakeway’s current election protocol violating the Texas Constitution; this has to do with 2 or 3 year terms for Council and the mayor. Just as important is whether to move city elections from May (when very low voter turnout allows the old guard to control the results) to November (when people expect to vote, and state and national elections bring up to 75% of registered voters to the polls).  November elections would mean fewer elections and save us money, plus result in officials representing the entire community, but Council Members Kumar and Howell prefer May when just the right people vote; Council Member Smith and Mayor Cox have declared themselves undecided.

If you want to make a public comment on these issues, you must arrange it before the meeting. To send written comments to Council and/or request to speak at the meeting, go here and create a Public Comment Form–https://lakeway-tx.civicweb.net/Portal/CitizenEngagement.aspx

Go here to see the Agenda and Meeting Packet for July 6–https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/archive.aspx

Go here to watch the meeting online, live or after the fact—https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1062/Videos—Meetings-Events

Back to me….

Last week, I reluctantly kept a doctor’s appointment for annual thyroid cancer follow up; many things can be done online, but a doc cannot palpate a neck on Zoom.  Also, I have gotten my grocery run to HEB stretched out to once a month, and last week it was time for that (at least, everyone wore a mask).  Tulip’s annual vet visit was also due; I opted to stay in the car and talk to Dr. Terrell on the phone as he did the exam and vaccinated her; happily, my precious girl got a good report.

July 3 was the 4^th anniversary of my mom’s death.  I still see or hear something and think, just for a second, “Gotta tell Mom….”  But, she would have hated each and every aspect of what we are living through now.

Also, a black and white puddle rolling through my yard today turned out to be 3 baby skunks.  Cute!

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Perspective is key

Worldwide, confirmed cases went from 9 million to over 11 million in just 2 weeks.  And there is no end in sight.

Texas cases stood at 114,881 on 6/22; in the last 2 weeks, they shot up to 195,239.  On 6/22, there were 3,711Texans hospitalized; today, 8,181 Texans are in hospitals. 

Travis County had 6,339 cases on 6/22; there are 11,679 cases today.

Is there any question that we are in crisis?

I highly recommend this article, for anyone still not sure about wearing a mask in these COVID times.  It is also helpful if, like me, you just enjoy a voice of reason calmly and clearly explaining the case for taking this basic step to protect both health and economy.

A Mask is a Stupid Hill to Die on, America  6/17/20 https://johnpavlovitz.com/2020/06/17/a-mask-is-a-stupid-hill-to-die-on-america/?fbclid=IwAR1fuReVlMc46lUJrILfmmir2E32dw7TBfUUppOWiokUnI3dcNkQst0TXNM

And right now everyone really, really, really needs to wear a mask in Texas.  See below!

As always, my Covid-19 page has links to articles added daily, on all aspects of the pandemic.

In the US

Coronavirus is surging in over 20 states, Texas definitely among them.

Protests continue nationwide over racially motivated police brutality.  Tragically, another horrific killing happened last week in Atlanta. Please, we must make this stop.

The Trump administration had a resoundingly BAD week, from multiple losses in court to a campaign rally that fizzled.  Cheers!

In Texas 

The spike in COVID-19 hospitalizations that began in early June, as covered in my last blog post, has continued and worsened.  We have record numbers of new cases across the state nearly every day now–4,430 reported on June 20 alone.  And, this surge is NOT due to increased testing; testing levels in Texas have remained steady or even dropped some days.  But, the rate of positive results has soared to 9%, which explains the rising hospitalization rate.  (Nationwide, the positive test rate is 5%.)  As of Saturday, 3247 Texans were hospitalized for COVID-19.  The numbers are starting to strain medical resources; for instance, in the hard-hit Dallas area, only 25% of ICU beds and 30% of ALL beds were open/available as of last weekend.  Full info in Texas as of June 20 is reported here–

COVID-19 Hospitalizations Set Records 9 Days Straight as Texas Surpasses 107K Cases  6/20/20 https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/coronavirus/covid-19-hospitalizations-set-records-9-days-straight-as-texas-surpasses-107k-cases/2392525/?_osource=SocialFlowFB_DFWBrand&fbclid=IwAR2U50dzI6QjKdaFH3ekdBMWVqsE3LA30OXJxmiuW0PRLBNuC_rrZRNy0a4

As this situation unfolded last week, local leaders begged Gov. Abbott to require masks or to let them do so.  He refused. Finally, a judge in San Antonio’s Bexar County issued an order that all businesses must require employees and patrons to wear masks.  And, Abbott was fine with that.  In fact, he said there was an intentional loophole for this in his order and he was surprised it took officials so long to figure it out!  So, in order to save face and not look like he backed down from his no-mask-required stance, Abbott now boasts that he was playing games with our lives. 

Austin and Travis County swiftly issued orders requiring all businesses to create COVID-19 mitigation plans, the minimum plank of which is requiring employees and patrons to wear masks.  Other major cities in Texas are doing much the same.  So, masks WILL be required in public, in most of Texas.  NO THANKS TO GOV. ABBOTT.  How many Texans became seriously ill or died in the last several weeks, due to infections that masks could have stopped?  Truly reprehensible!

This issue is well-covered in this article and editorial–

Greg Abbott Invites You to Figure Out What His Coronavirus Executive Orders Allow 6/18/20 https://www.texasmonthly.com/politics/abbott-mask-riddle/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Web+Social&utm_content=GregAbbottRiddle&fbclid=IwAR0eAwMz561DfOGuppXML88Nu1LOEX_WO30Bxj6D5UfbvTkE4Cib3sMeDQI

Editorial: This isn’t a game. It’s a pandemic.  6/18/20  https://www.statesman.com/opinion/20200618/editorial-this-isnrsquot-game-itrsquos-pandemic?utm_source=SND&utm_medium=Facebook&utm_campaign=statesman&fbclid=IwAR38UwKZ5R_RRlzkN-66ggPHuvcbiDy26vJmzaV2z2L8viUtaWwJApCKolo

In Lakeway

I finally spotted several newborn fans recently, on my early morning walks. So cute! These precious creatures add so much to life in Lakeway, and we are lucky to have them sharing the community.

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Plus, a Blackbuck Antelope (who escaped from a nearby wildlife compound when the lake was low during the drought) has joined Lakeway’s deer herd.  Over the last year, I watched him try repeatedly to make friends, only to be shunned, but recently a group of does accepted him, even with their fawns; it is nice to see him with companions again.

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As feared, at its June 8 meeting, CAMPO voted to delay indefinitely the planned 620 widening through Lakeway, instead dedicating the funds to I35 improvements.  So, the state isn’t going to help, and we’re stuck with our impossible traffic situation. What now?

At the June 15 Council meeting (held online), Council yet again rolled over and granted Legends the requested zoning change, from governmental to office/retail, on the 11 acres in front of the previously approved residential Square on Lohmans.  I don’t know why they even bother to agendize Legends’ demands since the rubber stamp is a given.

In other non-events, Major Cox reported that Travis County still hasn’t coughed up Lakeway’s share of the CARES Act money. Council then adjourned into another secret executive session about that.

Finally, there seems to be a rogue 4^th of July parade in the works, as a protest to the city cancelling this year’s parade due to contagion concerns.

Go here to view the June 15 meeting—https://lakewaytx.new.swagit.com/videos/66813

One of the July Council meetings will include another discussion and very likely a final vote on Charter changes going on the November ballot.  One such change will be a cure for our current election rules being in violation of the Texas constitution; this will have us vote on 2 year vs. 3 year terms for Council and Mayor.  The big question now is whether Council will also let the voters decide if city elections should be moved from May (when just the Lakeway old guard tends to vote and keeps everything under their control) to November (when voter numbers triple and the results represent the community as a whole). 

Back to me….

I tackled one LAST paint project, a small Shaker-style chest that was useful but looked very tired.  I painted it the same blue as all the other pieces I use for storage in my bedroom closet and added new nickel knobs for a modern touch.  Also, I took advantage of Container Store’s June closet sale and bought all new hangers, so my closet is completely renewed.  Every time I walk in there now, I smile.

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I went ahead with a pre-pandemic plan to buy a new Civic.  LOVE it!

Much less fun was zipping out to Austin Diagnostic in Steiner Ranch for annual blood work and then on to Walmart for essentials.  Most people wore masks, but still….

Perspective is key, and it helps to see what has changed. 

Worldwide, confirmed coronavirus cases passed the 9 million mark, with death numbers surging as well, mostly due to spikes in the US, Brazil, and the rest of the Americas.

The rapidly worsening Texas situation was covered above.

As for Travis County, the Lakeway area zip codes show an uptick in cases, but each was still under 40 through last weekend. Other Austin zip codes have over 500 cases each, and rising.  Let’s hope the new mask requirements help.

Anyone looking for an overview on COVID-19 should check out these 2 recent articles summarizing 6 months of data. They hone in on the things we now know and the things we still don’t understand about the virus.

–Six Months of Coronavirus: Here’s Some of What We’ve Learned  6/2/20 https://www.nytimes.com/article/coronavirus-facts-history.html

–After 6 Months, Important Mysteries About Coronavirus Endure 6/1/20 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/01/health/coronavirus-mysteries.html

Also, this 6 minute video is helpful in understanding the situation.

–How Covid-19 can be more and less deadly than we knew 6/4/20 https://www.vox.com/platform/amp/videos/2020/6/4/21280543/coronavirus-mortality-rate-covid-19-risk-excess-deaths

As always, my Covid-19 page has links to articles added daily, on all aspects of the pandemic.

In the US

What is left to say about the protests?  They are necessary in light of the atrocity that happened in Minneapolis, which was just the best-documented case in a stream of racially motivated police brutality that includes many shameful incidents in Austin. And, the right to gather and speak against authority is what has defined America since 1776.  About the riots and looting?  They are despicable and to some extent orchestrated by entities unconcerned with racism.  But, far worse were the bizarre threats made from the White House to unleash military forces against citizens on American soil.  The military leaders, past and present, refusing to play war games at home must have been a shock, along with the fact that no governors allowed it to happen in their states. Even Gov. Abbott dared to say no thank you, but given the state’s rights mentality in Texas, he had little political choice.  Washington, DC, has no governor to protect it, but Mayor Muriel Bowser, in addition to demanding federal forces exit her city, has had the last word, so far.  Actually, 3 ENORMOUS words emblazoned in neon yellow on the roadway surface of Pennsylvania Avenue leading to the White House: BLACK LIVES MATTER.  Indeed….

In Texas 

Texas is fighting the trend toward voting by mail in both the state and federal courts.  As of now, both suits have ruled against expanding our ability to vote safely by mail during COVID-19.  But, higher courts will review those rulings, and the issue will likely be decided by the US Supreme Court down the line.  For now, Texas law allows any resident to vote by mail who is 65 or older, has a disability or illness, will be out of the county, or is in jail.  The Texas election code defines disability as a “sickness or physical condition” that prevents a voter from appearing in person without the risk of “injuring the voter’s health.”  And,even the court opinions said that the voter decides whether that applies, and the state cannot question or investigate an application for mail-in ballot stating a disability. 

The Travis County Clerk’s page on this is quite clear—“A voter who requests a mail ballot on the grounds of disability will be accepted as eligible for a mail ballot. Our office has no legal authority to administratively require voters to substantiate their disability at the time the application is submitted.  ….  The voter does not have to declare the nature of the underlying disability. The elected officials [the Legislature] have placed in the hands of the voter the determination of whether in-person voting will cause a likelihood of injury to a physical condition.”

If you want to vote by mail in Travis County, go here for instructions— https://countyclerk.traviscountytx.gov/elections/ballot-by-mail.html

Still worried about fraud from voting by mail?  Read Ken Herman’s recent column for statistics on how it has worked for many years—https://today.statesman.com/express/thursday–may-28–2020/14?utm_source=express-edition&utm_medium=email

In Lakeway

At the June 1 Council meeting (held online), the main issue was a second discussion of possible Lakeway Charter changes for the November ballot.  No formal votes were taken but consensus seems to be 2 year terms, for simplicity if nothing else; the place system and run-off elections that go along with 3 year terms would do Lakeway no favors, and it is critical that voters adopt whatever is put on the ballot, so that our Charter’s current breach of the Texas Constitution gets fixed.  The number of consecutive terms allowed—2 terms (4 years) or 3 terms (6 years) will likely be presented on the ballot as a separate proposition, so as not to confuse things. The same should go for how to handle a vacancy (appointment by Council or special election), but there was less clarity there. Finally, they got to whether to move elections from May to November.  The meeting packet showed local voting numbers for the last 10 years, indicating 50-75% of registered voters came out for November elections, compared to under 25% in May.  Yet, certain council members (Kumar and Howell) argued for May; they don’t want more voters—they want the right voters.  (Yes, that IS frightening….)  Smith declared himself in favor of November yet, oddly, wants to delay the change until next time; Charters can only be amended every 2 years, so that would be late 2022.  Cox said she was undecided.  Higginbotham, Vance and Mastrangelo all support November elections.  As they noted—the statistics prove voters prefer November, because that is when they participate in the process.  The city should put it on the ballot so residents can decide this.

Also, Charter Review Committee suggested several picayune Charter changes.  It sounds like they will be left off the 2020 ballot, for simplicity.  And, certain committee members are seriously peeved their “decisions” were not accepted by Council.  Charter Review is an advisory committee; maybe they should look up the definition of “advisory.”  Also, former mayors and council members have zero authority, and the fact is the election issue amounts to fixing their mistakes when the Charter was illegally changed back in 2014.

The result is that the City attorney is to draft language on a November election proposition, and all this will be discussed again at a July Council meeting.  They have until mid-August to announce propositions for the Nov. 3 election.  Go here & click on item 5 to view the often lively discussion. https://lakewaytx.new.swagit.com/videos/62867

 (As an aside, while I was waiting to dial in and make my citizen participation comments on this issue, I heard a crash, and soon emergency vehicles roared down my street in St. Andrews.  Turns out, a pickup truck veered off Lakeway Boulevard, took out a stone pillar and a large section of wood perimeter fence, flipped a couple times, and came to rest 3 doors down from me.  Lakeway Boulevard was closed, while a rescue helicopter landed there to evacuate the driver. The HOA has significant damage to repair. The accident could not have happened if the 30 mile per hour speed limit had been observed.  Lakeway Boulevard has become a busy and hazardous cut-through for people hurrying between 620 and 71.  Our safety is just another casualty of uncontrolled growth.)

In other matters, Council approved the Special Events Permit, though they did not seem to understand when it would be needed or how it would work.  They also created 2 new city positions.  An Emergency Coordinator will take on much of what Mayor Cox has been doing during the pandemic; the position will also serve The Hills and Bee Cave, but Lakeway will pay 2/3 of the salary, based on population.  (Where the money would come from was left vague, along with whether the position is managerial or administrative.)  A Grants Program Coordinator will seek out grant funding, apply for it on the city’s behalf, and manage reporting paperwork on received funds.  Plus, it was finally admitted that the 620 widening project (that Lakeway has been anticipating pretty much forever to solve its traffic problems) is in serious jeopardy; state funds seem likely to be diverted to match federal dollars recently awarded to improve Interstate 35.  Campo will make a final decision June 8. 6/9/20 UPDATE: CAMPO has deferred indefinitely the planned 620 widening through Lakeway, along with other local projects, instead dedicating the funds to I35 improvements.  Community Impact covered the development here—https://communityimpact.com/austin/central-austin/transportation/2020/06/08/regional-board-defers-rm-620-other-projects-despite-opposition-from-most-austin-travis-county-officials/

Then, the meeting blacked out for EIGHT closed Executive Session discussions (tying the record set at the last meeting).  They popped back online close to midnight to Adjourn with no discussion and no vote on any of the 8 secret items.  

Council also had an odd little online meeting on June 4, calendared at the last minute and with only the CARES Act funding on the Agenda.  It was reported that so far Lakeway has received nothing.  Still, they went dark for over an hour before Adjourning with no discussion and no vote.  I really hope this doesn’t indicate they are considering a lawsuit.  Surely, Lakeway is paying enough in legal fees already….

Finally, on June 4, the mayor announced the annual 4^th of July parade is cancelled this year, due to COVID-19 concerns.  Instead, Lakeway will host a fireworks display.

Back to me….

Here’s the small table I painted, before and after.

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My latest painting project was a fun one, a nicely made storage bench that just didn’t fit in with anything else.  So, it got painted blue, to match the other odds and ends I use in my closet.  The 2 earlier pieces I worked on were fairly primitive, so I just brushed them; the bench had a smooth finish, so I rolled it. 

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I zipped out to HEB and Home Depot for necessities last week and was happy to see everyone still wearing masks.  But, the exciting trip was to the library.  Still closed, they started distributing reserved materials curbside, which is fabulous.  I’m still working through all of Louise Penny’s books in anticipation of the Sept. 1 release of her next one.  But summer TV is severely lacking, and the streaming services are annoying as well as pricey.  So, I’m thrilled to get DVDs from the library again.

Tulip made it nearly 4 months this time but finally needed a depo shot for her allergies.  Terrell Vet Clinic still has its lobby closed, but they run a convenient drive-up service.  It is hard to impress a cat, but I was quite happy with it.

Perspective is key, and it helps to see what has changed. 

Worldwide confirmed cases have soared over 7 million, with over 2 million in the US alone.  Brazil is seeing out of control increases in cases, second only to the US; reports indicate hospitals there are overwhelmed and mass graves are common.

In Texas, cases are increasing instead of decreasing, even though testing here is not rising.  Gov. Abbott, hurrying to open up the state fully, dismisses this as due to surges in nursing homes, prisons and meat-packing plants; even if that is correct, all these groups still have community connections resulting in spreading the virus.  An alarming trend is that the number of Texans hospitalized for COVID-19 has increased steadily the last couple weeks, setting record highs and exceeding 1800 the first time ever on Friday (1855 Friday, 1822 Saturday, and 1878 Sunday).  Weekend numbers like this usually drop, not rise, but we’ll see what happens in coming days.

Anyone trying to figure out which activities, locations, etc. are safe and which are NOT safe should read this article, Social Distancing Is Not Enough, by Derek Thompson for The Atlantic.  It examines known super-spreader events and shows why they were so brutal.  The result is solid info on what to do and not do, plus precautions to take to protect yourself in various situations.  We have to protect ourselves—clearly, no one else is doing it. https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/05/how-will-we-ever-be-safe-inside/611953/

Another valuable resource for planning your next steps is here—Pools? Planes? Camps? What public health experts will — and won’t — do this summer 5/27/20 https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/public-health-experts-summer-safety-faq-coronavirus/2020/05/27/02a5a5a8-9f74-11ea-b5c9-570a91917d8d_story.html?arc404=true

This is also worth a read as you decide about summer—The next 100 days: How the coronavirus will continue to change your life at home, at work, at school and beyond  5/27/20 https://today.statesman.com/express/wednesday–may-27–2020/9?utm_source=express-edition&utm_medium=email

Plus, I highly recommend The Rachel Maddow Show.  She covers political affairs, often related to COVID-19 at this point.  I find the show highly informative and entertaining.  After all, knowledge is the first step to protecting ourselves.  The show is televised on MSNBC each weekday evening.  It is also available online https://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show

As always, my Covid-19 page has links to articles added daily, on all aspects of the pandemic.

In Texas

Last week, the state’s ugly practice of including antibody test statistics with basic virus testing was called out by the media, denied, and then changed.  Just to be clear, most testing done for COVID-19 is to find out if someone has the virus currently.  In the past month or so, a different type of testing has begun—looking for antibodies to see if people had the virus in the past and are now (hopefully) immune to getting it again.  Out of ignorance or guile, Texas was dumping those efforts together as the “testing” it reported daily online.  Since antibody testing (so far) rarely comes up positive, those extra negative results skewed things to make it appear Texas had fewer new COVID-19 cases than it did.  And, of course, these encouraging numbers were cited as good news supporting Texas opening up very quickly.  At Gov. Abbott’s May 18 press conference, he was specifically asked if antibody tests were combined with virus testing, and he denied it.  Yet, by May 22, state officials admitted this had been the case and from then on test results have been reported separately—virus and antibody, number of tests done, and percentage positive.

In Lakeway

At the May 18 Council meeting (held online), members Higginbotham, Smith and Mastrangelo were sworn in for their second terms (no one having run against them.)  Also, Higginbotham will continue her able service as Mayor Pro Tem for a second year; Council approved this at the mayor’s request, but Smith’s nay vote and Kumar’s abstention indicated bad feelings.

Council went on and on about whether or not to adopt provisions requiring a special event permit.  While I don’t have strong feelings on this either way, Council seemed to have no idea what number of people gathering (50? 100? 250? 1,000?) would constitute an issue.  Maybe that means we don’t have a problem.

Use of Lakeway’s stockpiled Hotel Occupancy Tax funds for economic recovery post-pandemic was discussed.  The state has not loosened the rules for use of these funds (they can only be used for something that demonstrably increases hotel occupancy), but that could change.  In the meantime, Council will look into giving some of the $7million now held back to our local hotels, as a rebate.

The meeting concluded with Council considering 8 items in Executive Session.  I think EIGHT secret items might be a record, and they spent 3 full hours at it.  In the end, no action was taken, and nothing was discussed in the public portion of the meeting.  (One item was personnel issues, which must have included the May 12 resignation of Charlotte Hodges, who served less than 2 years as Director of Building Development Services.)

Council next meets Monday night, June 1.  So far, per the calendar, this looks like a return to a real in-person meeting, held at City Hall with citizen attendance.  Also, as of now, all monthly committee meetings appear normally on the June calendar, so City Hall may be opening up.  We’ll see….  UPDATE: On May 29, the city changed Council’s June 1 meeting to be held online .  So, citizen participation must be arranged on Monday and will be via phone.  See the Agenda for details.  Council meeting’s agenda and meeting packet will be late posted in the day on Friday, May 29.  Go here–https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/archive.aspx

Go here to watch online, live or after the fact—https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1062/Videos—Meetings-Events

Belated Happy Memorial Day to all!  It was different in many respects, but the underlying theme remained powerful.  For the first time, the city lined major boulevards with miniature American flags.  I found it evocative, passing through flag-lined paths on my morning walks, and I hope this becomes a new tradition for us. 

Back to me….

I started a new painting project, a small table this time, and did some spring cleaning.

Also, I got my car inspected last week.  As always, Lakeway Texaco went above and beyond.  I loved their friendly “Masks required” sign on the door.  And, their cheerful and professional service had me done and out the door in 15 minutes!

Plus, I had my garage door serviced, so now it hums rather than squeals.  The cats are pleased.  Even better, Lake Travis Overhead Doors replaced the seal along the bottom.  A recent fire safety inspection warned that the gaps where the old seal was missing did more than allow leaves and dirt to blow inside; in the event of a wildfire, embers would blow in and could set the house on fire.  Bonus—rodents and snakes are now kept out, as well. 

Perspective is key, and it helps to see what changed in the last week.

Actually, I’m not at all sure the numbers can be trusted or even tell us much now.  Testing (particularly in the US) remains abysmally low, so confirmed cases and deaths are far less than reality.  Government agencies at local, state and federal levels have all toyed with the stats for their own purposes.  Undeveloped countries and those at war don’t have the means to keep track. Worst of all, we’ve become numb to the carnage as the numbers plow right through estimated totals, as the tables ebb and flow.  And, COVID-19 cases and deaths won’t be stopping anytime soon. 

So, I’ll keep up my daily spreadsheet with all the numbers (yes, I’m a completist….). But going forward I will likely just mention highlights here, good or bad.

Worldwide, there are now close to 6 million reported cases, which is a serious under-count.  In the US, we recently exceeded 100,000 deaths confirmed as caused by COVID-19.  Again, many more Americans than that have died from the virus, but remember when models predicting 100,000 deaths in the US were dismissed by elected officials as outlandish fear-mongering?  Maybe keep that in mind come November.

This article gave me chills, in the sense of explaining some of the disconnect I have noticed—in myself and definitely in others—as the pandemic washes over us all.

Almost 90,000 dead and no hint of national mourning. Are these deaths not ‘ours’?  5/15/20 https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/national-mourning-coronavirus/2020/05/15/b47fc670-9577-11ea-82b4-c8db161ff6e5_story.html

As always, my Covid-19 page has links to articles added daily, on all aspects of the pandemic.

In Texas

Last week, the state attorney general attacked local officials for promoting social distancing and wearing masks, despite their orders scrupulously following the governor’s ludicrous mandate of no penalties allowed.  As Travis County and Austin officials noted, sickness and death in the community is penalty enough to encourage reasonable people to avoid reckless behavior and instead take precautions.  AG Paxton also appealed a court order that allowed those vulnerable to infection by COVID-19 to vote by mail.  So, pending a decision by the Texas Supreme Court, people will have to decide if voting is worth the risk.  The next election is a primary run-off in July, but the big issue will arise with the presidential election in November.

Here in Lakeway….

Suddenly, the fact that the lion’s share of city revenue comes from property tax, as opposed to sales tax, is a huge boon, instead of the problem certain pro-development officials tried to make it in the past.  Budget projections at the last Council meeting were quite rosy.  The city will benefit from stable revenue, compared to places like Bee Cave which live off of sales tax and will suffer major revenue losses.  Maybe Lakeway officials will remember this lesson and not rush to approve more and more retail, office and restaurant space we do not need and cannot support.

Also, going back to the Charter Review Committee’s presentation at the May 4 Council meeting (discussed in detail in last week’s blog)….  Chair DeOme seemed vexed that certain council members questioned the committee’s decisions.  Personally, I was surprised the term “decisions” was used, as opposed to “recommendations.”  The committee has no power to decide anything and is purely advisory; its mandate was to review the Charter and suggest changes to Council.  As for the most important issues raised (all involving election rules), my take is we fix the fact our charter currently violates the Texas constitution, by reverting to 2 year terms in at-large elections.  The alternative of changing to 3 year terms (as the committee “decided” we should do) requires adopting a meaningless and easily gamed place system that would make Lakeway’s elections even more fraught than they already are.  Plus, that requires changing from plurality results to majority required, with the distinct possibility of an expensive run-off election each time.  Those evils far outweigh the small benefit of stability that comes with 3 year terms. 

Also, as to timing, Lakeway should switch to November for local elections, in order to encourage voter turnout and end the old guard’s control of the results.  (The city attorney confirmed this would be a SEPARATE ballot issue, so there is no worry it would confuse voters on the primary goal of bringing our charter into compliance with the Texas constitution.)  As a bonus, the city would save money by holding just 1 election each year, instead of 2.  Plus, with terms starting in November, new council members would have 7 months to acclimate before facing budget season, as opposed to 1 month for anyone elected in May.  And, anyone who thinks Lakeway’s elections are not ALREADY tainted by partisan politics isn’t paying attention.

Finally, the charter should be amended on a couple items relating to committee appointments.  First, having been sanctioned for an ethics violation should disqualify someone from serving on a committee; even volunteers should be held to that minimal standard. Second, committee appointments seem to be handed out as thank yous for campaign contributions; that needs to stop.    

Council meets Monday night, May 18.  If you want to comment, you must arrange it beforehand, per the instructions at the top of the agenda. Go here for the agenda and meeting packet—https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/archive.aspx

Go here to watch online, live or after the fact—https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1062/Videos—Meetings-Events

Back to me….

My build-a-bookcase project is DONE!

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This week, I will work on spring cleaning and hope to start another painting project.

Today is Peanut’s 4^th anniversary of joining the family.  Catnip was enjoyed by all….

Perspective is key, and it helps to see what changed in the last week. 

A week ago (May 10), there were 4,180,137 confirmed cases and 283,852 deaths. As of today, there are 4,798,135 confirmed cases and 316,507 deaths.

In the US, a week ago there were 1,367,638 confirmed cases and 80,787 deaths. Today, there are 1,526,816 confirmed cases and 90,973 deaths.

In Texas, a week ago there were 38,869 confirmed cases and 1,088 deaths.  Today, there are 47,784 confirmed cases and 1,336 deaths. Note that on Saturday, Texas had more new cases than ever reported (1,801).  And, on Thursday and Friday, the daily death counts were the highest ever (58 and 56).

In Travis County, a week ago there were 2,127 confirmed cases and 60 deaths. Today, there are 2,459 confirmed cases and 77 deaths.

A week ago, we had 33 confirmed cases in Lakeway’s zip codes of 78734 and 78738.  Today, we have 38 confirmed cases.

Things I wonder about:

–By how many years (decades?) will the 620 widening project through Lakeway be delayed?

–Instead of the much-publicized Thunderbird flyover, wouldn’t donating the funds spent on that stunt (perhaps toward PPE, medical costs of personnel who caught COVID-19, and scholarships for kids of personnel who died from it) have been a far more useful homage to medical workers?

–If it is so safe to open up businesses and restaurants (even gyms and pools in Texas as of May 18) and with people officially encouraged to be out and about now, why are all government buildings still closed tight, with officials attending meetings safely from home?

I came across a couple articles last week that are particularly helpful in understanding the pandemic–how it has developed and how it is likely to continue over the next several months or longer.  If interested, here they are:

–Why the Coronavirus Is So Confusing  4/29/20 https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2020/04/pandemic-confusing-uncertainty/610819/?campaign_id=9&emc=edit_nn_20200505&instance_id=18228&nl=the-morning&regi_id=122311001&segment_id=26626&te=1&user_id=85e9340cba19164d75f3915211a487be

–Three potential futures for Covid-19: recurring small outbreaks, a monster wave, or a persistent crisis  5/1/20 https://www.statnews.com/2020/05/01/three-potential-futures-for-covid-19/?campaign_id=9&emc=edit_nn_20200505&instance_id=18228&nl=the-morning&regi_id=122311001&segment_id=26626&te=1&user_id=85e9340cba19164d75f3915211a487be

As always, my Covid-19 page has links to articles added daily, on all aspects of the pandemic.

Texas craziness….

Republican-governed states opened up with abandon, despite failing to show promise as far as curbing the disease or improving their scant testing.  Texas charged ahead.  Gov. Abbott dropped any show of waiting to see if his May 1 opening of other businesses caused a surge in cases; he allowed salons to open May 8, with gyms following on May 18.  That pretty much leaves only bars and entertainment centers closed for now.   

Speaking of salons, the owner of an upscale salon in Dallas decided to open back in April—because she felt entitled to do so.  She was repeatedly cited by police; she mouthed off to the judge and tore up her citation, which got her fined and sentenced to 7 days in jail for contempt.  But, then somebody’s PR machine kicked into overdrive.  Somehow, this wealthy, middle-aged woman was portrayed as a desperate mother trying to feed her kids.  Enough people bought into the lies to net her Go Fund Me campaign over $500,000.  (She already received federal relief funds for her business.)  Dan Patrick, the Texas Lt. Governor who previously volunteered his generation to die of COVID-19  in order to save the economy for the grandkids, paid her fine.  And Gov. Abbott did two crazy things.  First, he issued a blistering attack on the Dallas police and court system for daring to punish a business owner trying to make ends meet; he totally glossed over the fact that it was HIS order that closed her business AND that specified the fine and jail sentence for those violating the order.  Second, he amended his order to state that NO AUTHORITY could jail anyone in Texas deciding not to abide by the order.  So much for rule of law.  Some closure rules remain, but according to the governor himself, there is no penalty for anyone declining to follow them.   Only in Texas….

Here in Lakeway….

City Council broached a controversial topic at its May 4 meeting.  Held online, with the same restrictive citizen participation scheme used since March, the meeting featured a report by the Charter Review Committee (CRC).  Chair Dave DeOme droned on quite a while with committee recommendations; members Todd Buikema and Tom Kilgore spoke very briefly on a couple points.  A key thing to understand is the CRC’s primary task is fixing the city’s current election statutes, which violate the Texas constitution.   Back in 2014 (oddly enough, when DeOme was mayor and current Mayor Sandy Cox was on Council) the city decided to amend its charter to extend the terms of the mayor and council members from 2 to 3 years.  Charter amendments must be approved by voters, which happened in November of 2014.  The problem is that the Texas Constitution requires (back then and now) that when local officials are elected for longer than 2 years, a candidate must win by majority vote, instead of just plurality vote, and it requires use of a place system.  Lakeway’s new rules didn’t cover any of that, making them unconstitutional.  Somehow, this didn’t come to light until 2018. (Officials blamed the city’s lawyer for everything.)  Since then, Lakeway has limped along under its OLD rules (2 year terms, etc.) as best it can, and will try to fix the gaffe when legally allowed to do so–in the November, 2020 election. 

DeOme basically said that since voters approved 3 year terms in 2014, we should implement that now by putting majority required, run-off elections as needed, and the place system on the November ballot.   Assuming the measure passes, all would be well.  BUT, not so fast.  In 2014, voters only agreed to 3 year terms.  The complicated place system required to implement that would completely change the city’s electoral scheme.  In addition to possible run-off elections (both expensive and time-consuming), candidates would be able to pick the place they felt better about winning, potentially gaming the system.  The alternative is simply returning to 2-year terms.  Sure, there is more turnover, but that is far better than a place system.

The term issue aside, the CRC also reviewed the charter as a whole and recommended many other changes, some minor and some major.  One major change is election-related and has to do with WHEN elections are held.  Everyone knows that elections happen on Tuesday in November, right?   Not in Lakeway, which traditionally elects local officials in May.  Why?  Because the low voter turnout that the odd timing guarantees makes it easy for the city’s old guard to control the outcome.  (For example, in May of 2018, only 18% of registered voters showed up to vote for the mayor and 3 council seats.)  Curing that low voter turnout is the best possible reason to move city elections to November, when state and federal election are held and voters are engaged and far more likely to bother to show up to vote.  Another excellent reason to have Lakeway’s elections in November is money; Lakeway must hold elections in November for state and federal contests, so having city elections in May doubles the cost.  Finally, electing officials in May means they immediately face the summer budget process; if elected in November, they would have an additional 6 months to learn the system before tackling arguably the most important and complex part of the job.  May election proponents tried to argue that in November the din of state and federal elections would drown out city matters, and that city elections should be kept apart from partisan elections.  (Like all the “social clubs” here don’t tell members how to vote!) The city attorney made it clear that if the May/November election issue is put on the ballot, it would be separate from the term issue and so would not interfere with fixing Lakeway’s constitutional problem.  Not surprisingly, it came out that this was the most contentious issue the CRC encountered.  Also, the euphemism “robust discussion” got quite a workout Monday night….

Nothing much was decided at the Council meeting.  CRC is to work with the city attorney to draft language covering the various options.  The attorney is to seek guidance from state officials.   City staff is to collect voter turnout statistics for recent May and November elections. 

To watch the meeting’s recording, go to link below, click on City Council, and then choose the May 4 meeting.  Scroll down on the left to item 5–Presentation from charter review committee. https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/1062/Meeting-Videos—Council-ZAPCO

To better understand the discussion, access the companion materials by clicking on the link below, scrolling down for City Council Meeting Packet, and selecting May 4.  The Charter Review information is near the top of the resulting PDF. https://www.lakeway-tx.gov/archive.aspx

Back to me….

My build-a-bookcase project continues.  Last week, I painted the old wine boxes.  (I’m using gorgeous blue paint left over from last fall’s project, when I painted my front door.)  The boxes still need a second coat. 

Also, I put on my mask and zipped out to HEB for perishables last week.  As usual, mid-morning on a weekday was a calm time there, with no crowding or waiting.  I was happy to see everyone wearing masks.  If a business wants my money now, they need to require all employees and customers to wear masks, to reduce the chance of infection for everyone. 

Plus, I cut my hair, not just trimming up the front—all around.  It may not look terrific from the back, but the cats haven’t said a word.  And, now I don’t have to risk getting sick to avoid shaggy hair in Texas summer heat.

I STILL haven’t seen a parked newborn fawn in person, but I do appreciate all the sweet photos and videos posted online by the lucky folks.

Happy Mother’s Day!  My daughter called, and my best friend sent a cat-themed care package; she knows me well, and truly that is the best gift of all.

Perspective is key, and it helps to see what changed in the last week. 

A week ago (May 3), there were 3,563,335 confirmed cases and 248,135 deaths. As of today, there are 4,180,137 confirmed cases and 283,852 deaths.

In the US, a week ago there were 1,187,768 confirmed cases and 68,587 deaths. Today, there are 1,367,638 confirmed cases and 80,787 deaths.

In Texas, a week ago there were 31,548 confirmed cases and 867 deaths.  Today, there are 38,869 confirmed cases and 1,088 deaths.

In Travis County, a week ago there were 1,756 confirmed cases and 52 deaths. Today, there are 2127 confirmed cases and 60 deaths.

A week ago, we had 26 confirmed cases in Lakeway’s zip codes of 78734 and 78738.  Today, we have 33 confirmed cases.

Things I wonder about:

–On the world stage, at least since WWII, it used to be “the ugly Americans,” as we pushed our way into every situation and took charge, for better or worse. Now, it is “the stupid Americans,” as we completely and very publicly fail at handling each and every aspect of this pandemic, from preparedness, to testing, to lockdown, to opening up.  Just how far can America fall?

–Will the emerging risk to children posed by COVID-19 change things, as opposed to the current acceptance of risk to older and compromised people?

–Is it just me, or is having to wipe down groceries with disinfectant before putting them away the MOST ANNOYING THING EVER?

–Is it time to turn on my sprinklers?

Texas opened up for the economy on May 1.  Gov. Abbott’s Phase 1 allows pretty much everything except salons, gyms and bars to be up and running, limited to 25% occupancy (for 2 weeks, then ramping up to 100%).   And, the governor has hinted that even salons, gyms and bars will be green-lit very soon.  As rash as all this is, it might have been workable, except that his order specified that masks are NOT required. 

Here in Travis County, people were comfortable with the mask requirement.  Experts say masks decrease infection, particularly at the early stage before people realize they have the virus.  Now, masks are voluntary, and we know how that plays out.  Back in March, Abbott excused his failure to issue a state-wide order on the grounds that local mayors and judges were in the best position to know what their areas needed.  Now, he has declared that local authorities may NOT create rules varying from his new order, about masks or anything else virus-related.   

However, a business MAY require customers to wear masks (just like they can require customers to wear shirts and shoes).  Any time I am required to be out and about in the foreseeable future, I will only patronize businesses that REQUIRE MASKS.

Opening up now is rash in Texas, based on our statistics on confirmed cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.  Even the rather lax federal guidelines for opening up (requiring cases and deaths trending down for a period of 2 weeks) have not been met.   Instead, we are continuing a trend of over 1,000 new confirmed cases each day.  Also, the total number of Texans hospitalized reached record levels several days last week; previously in the 1400s and 1500s, the number ranged from 1682 to 1778.  And, on April 30, 50 Texans died of COVID-19–more than any other day to date.   

Clearly, opening up now isn’t based on our medical situation.  Instead, it is based on economics, specifically reducing the unemployment benefits to furloughed workers and the special payments to idle businesses.   If it is somehow safe enough for most businesses to re-open now, why are state offices, Capitol Building, Governor’s Mansion, etc. not included in Abbott’s order?   And, it isn’t just Texas—the hypocrisy extends to Washington, DC, with government buildings closed and the House of Representatives refusing to return to work for safety reasons.  Even Lakeway continues to keep city buildings closed to the public; tomorrow’s Council meeting will be held online.

Back to me….

For anyone curious about how my experiment with freezing a gallon jug of milk went—it turned out just fine.   The bulge that developed near the bottom of the jug isn’t leaking.  The milk tastes normal.  The printed expiration date was April 29.  I bought and froze it on April 14 and thawed it on April 28; I should be able to use it now for a full 2 weeks.  I WAS surprised by how long it took to thaw—3 full days, & even well after that it had slushy portions. 

My current project is building a bookcase.  The former owners of my house left behind some wooden wine boxes, and they are the perfect size.  I sanded and primed them this weekend. 

Other than that, I continue working full-time online from home, with stellar oversight from my 3 feline supervisors.  At some point, I’m going to have to start on spring cleaning ….

Perspective is key, and it helps to see what changed in the last week.

A week ago (April 26), worldwide, there were 2,994,436 confirmed cases and 206,973 deaths.  As of today (May 3), there are 3,563,335 confirmed cases and 248,135 deaths.

In the US, a week ago there were 987,160 confirmed cases and 55,413 deaths.  Today, there are 1,187,768 confirmed cases and 68,587 deaths.

In Texas, a week ago there were 24,631 confirmed cases and 648 deaths.  Today, there are 31,548  confirmed cases and 867 deaths.

In Travis County, a week ago there were 1,412  confirmed cases and 39 deaths. Today, there are 1,756 confirmed cases and 52 deaths.

A week ago, we had 26 confirmed cases in Lakeway’s zip codes of 78734 and 78738.  Today, we have 26 cases (no change).

Things I wonder about:

–How did I get paint get THERE?

–How long can I let my car sit in the garage without driving it, without ending up with a dead battery?

–When will I see my first parked fawn of the season?