By George, He’s got it!
I share with you an enlightening poem from across the dis-functioning Bay Bridge, which connects the Western Shore with the Eastern Shore of Maryland. I was not going to call you at 0400 hrs George to let you know I was doing this George. Sleep well my friend.
I would guess George has been a friend for close to twenty years. Geeze, that was back in the days when we had a president that said ” “Brownie, you’re doing a heckuva job.” Where does the time go?
Now in this day and age we have the CDC Says “Do Not Go to Work, “President Trump Says, “Thousands With Coronavirus Could Go to Work and Get Better.” Fill those pews on Easter Sunday. A Greek Tragedy?
Often after he posts something on one of his many venues, George sends me scurrying to find out just what in the hell he is referencing. Most often I’m successful, but on occasion I’m left scratching my head. Enjoy the poem.
The best short social isolation poem so far is by Grandpa Brody
poor georgie’s almanackUncategorized March 25, 2020 1 Minute
It was his response to a recent “poor georgie’s almanack” posting.
FREEDOM AND CAGES
I looked out my window and saw a great sight, A bird and a squirrel were having a fight. Seeds on the ground were causing their rage, They were free, unlike me, pent up in a cage. Coronavirus dumped on us, a rampant deluge, We’re saved for the time in our homely refuge, The squirrel has bolted, the bird struts around, My heart’s with the seeds all over the ground, It’s so strange inside, I can hear graying hair, Sounds of the crowds, and look, no one’s there, We are stuck in the house for a foe that is viral, All normal relations are in a downward spiral. The long golden silence is but tarnished words, I long for outside, breathing free like the birds, My life of the past and its warmth do I seek, I’ve endured this affliction for all of one week. Squirrel has returned eating seeds that are left, Looking out of my window to the world, bereft Of my freedom to move anywhere that I please, To enjoy the squirrels and birds in the trees. Next week may be better, a brisk sunny walk, Or perhaps my dear wife and I will just talk, About the day when this plague’s in the past, But for now, how long will this dilemma last?
Published by poor georgie’s almanack
Retired. Writing essays about local and world events that affected the decisions made by our ancestors that resonate with our lives today. We are who they were. Also writing my take on what Ben Franklin’s Poor Richard’s Almanack might be like in a modern world that now has electrcity. I was head of PR for The Washington Post during Pentagon Papers and Watergate, special assistant to the Postmaster General, senior staffer on the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, a show business press agent, Chicago chamber of commerce press relations manager and consultant to US and international governmental and nongovernmental agencies and corporations. Examples of my work are in the Smithsonian and Newseum collections. poor georgie’s almanack (since 2011) can be found at http://georgekroloff.blogspot.com You can Google it or follow me on Facebook or Twitter. View all posts by poor georgie’s almanack Published March 25, 2020
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The bald guy on the right turns 77 today.
theRooster Semper Fi
Rooster & Family Happenings on 3/22
From Sam in the Netherlands
Today is day 23 (I think) of Dax and Zoe having no school and day 5 for Mia and Ana. A quick recap of some of the best moments from the week. Some you may not think are great, but all made me laugh as they happened.
Zoe is standing in nothing but underwear stomping her feet, yelling for spicy water.
Dax is running as fast as he can (which isn’t very fast) to find the perfect hiding spot, only to run back to where I’m counting and ask for help.
Ana is getting mad at me for not explaining her homework the way her teacher does. She walks away, saying she’ll take care of it. After returning a couple minutes later, it is completed correctly.
Mia is so excited to video chat with her best friend from school after I set up a virtual play date for them.
The best group moment was as we sat in front of our projector screen and “rode” Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, and many more. Of course, we put our hands up and yelled, and turned to match the ride, because that’s what you do when you have to create your own fun.
What this week has taught me is that though homeschooling is something I said I would never do and this virus has ruined a lot of plans we had in the coming 3 months, it’s going to be ok. I hate that my kids understand that this virus has the power to disrupt what is normal. I also love that it has taught them how to innovate fun and how to become better friends with one another.
I would love to see what your best moments of the week were!
Daughter Kathryn
SALISBURY, Md. – Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury is taking steps to prepare for an influx of COVID-19 patients and questions. “We know right now in this time of high anxiety and wondering what’s really out there and what information should I listen to, people are trying to understand where they can get the right answers,” said Dr. Kathryn Fiddler, vice president of population health at PRMC.
Friday nurses set up shop at PRMC’s brand new call center. The hospital tells 47 ABC they are now taking calls seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The health professionals taking calls are able to answer questions about COVID-19 and provide advice on how to stay healthy. “They can understand how their symptoms are, whether or not they should call a health provider, also whether or not they should isolate at home,” said Dr. Fiddler.
Outside in the parking lot, a large tent was set up in case the hospital needs extra space in a patient surge. PRMC’s chief nursing officer tells us this tent is one of a kind for the region, and will be shared by multiple other hospitals. “Currently we have a cleaning crew here. The tent came packaged very tightly and very neatly, so we need to undo that and with that comes a lot of opportunity to clean. We want to make sure that when we do we have the availability and they need to open it that it’s absolutely 100% ready for our patients, and we want to ensure that it is clean to start,” said Sarah Arnett. When the tent is ready, it’ll be equipped with temperature control, running water, and can hold up to 20 patients.
Because the tent is right underneath one of the hospital’s helicopter pads, the pad is shut down temporarily. Hospital officials say helicopters will land on another pad on the other side of the campus. Hospital officials also say that the city of Salisbury helped to organize everything. The city donated weighted barrels and concrete barriers to help keep the tent safely in place and out of the way of traffic.
PRMC says they’ll continue to monitor the volume of calls and what types of questions people are asking so they can adjust staffing at the call center as needed. If you have questions about COVID-19 or are worried about symptoms, you can reach the call center at (410) 912-6889.
Husband Jeff went into DC for a few days last week, now he’s ordered to stay home. He Telecommutes, and gets to throw a line in the water and fish at lunch time. Now Yellow Lab, Lady Liberty has a dog walker 24-7. Life is good on their side of the river.
Categories: Coronavirus, Local News, Maryland
Tags: call center, coronavirus, covid-19, dr. kathryn fiddler, maryland, peninsula regional medical center, prmc, salisbury, sarah arnett, tent
Sarah the Deliverer
Hi everyone! I have been “working” from home since last Tuesday which isn’t saying a whole lot since most restaurants are closed or only allowing carryout. The club and retail business units are helping make up for our losses. Cameron drove home from Alabama instead of Spring Break and Blaire is home working at the nursery. Sydney is in San Diego workout from home. Ray is working at the nursery, Tommy can’t go any further than 60 miles away. Greg is laying off all non-essential workers in anticipation of shipping across state lines being suspended. I’ve only had a couple of freak out moments and then I take a walk and get those endorphins working. My closet is super organized In descending rainbow 🌈colors and I’m enjoying cooking and cleaning and wearing prairie dresses. Currently at MVA for Poppy and then Porch time visit with them. Love to you all😘
I’ve delivered some fresh produce from How Sweet it is for my parents who are under self quarantine for the next Two weeks. My sister and I want to still see our parents without putting them at risk of exposure to the virus. We call it “Porch Time”. Enjoyed warm sunshine and a lovely visit while maintaining 6 feet distance apart. Best to everyone in these challenging days ahead. Thank you Kathy Fiddler and all of our healthcare workers at PRMC for working so hard to keep our community safe and healthy.
God Bless her, she just came by with an order the Mrs. placed earlier. Some noodles, Chopped Maters in a can, a chicken. Her Aunt in-law, Diane, sent a bag of books and plates from MVA for my new truck. She got the plates on her third trip the day prior to it’s closing for Covid-19.
Matt & Family in CT
Son Matt & wife Beth, in Connecticut, are well as is his family the last we heard. Daughter Jill home from Siena College, Freshman in HS Rebecca is home, David working from his Apartment in NYC and Kevin, he’s at his Apartment at UConn continuing on line studies..
The Rooster and the Mrs. are doing just fine, deliveries coming in as needed, three active hens starting to produce a few eggs now that the weather is warmer. Ben doing fine and providing exercise as we go on potty missions. I lift Ammo Box’s for part of my exercise and walk the house most time FitBit tells me to do so.
Rooster Stuff
I have a new truck, well, new to me anyway. The old truck was a 1992 Chevy Silverado, the new truck is a 2001 Ford F-150, Super Cab, 4×4. Right now it’s getting some Rocker Panel repairs. I should have it back in a few days. This new vehicle has Reverse gear, the old truck could only go backwards if parked facing an up-slope. Oh, and the new one has windshield wipers also. My arm got tired when hanging outside with a squeegee. It’s been an adventure with that old Silverado for the past sixteen years.
The Local Grands, Abby and Rachael are still at their respective jobs the last I heard. Rachael is busy still setting up her new home to her specifications, now that she’s a home owner. Tommy, USAF, down in NC, is well and hoping for some leave next month.
Travels with Harrison
Harrison and the Rooster did their thing this past Thursday, 3/19. We had no contact with anyone ,other than the Drive-Up window at Arbys. We made a Dump/Trash run, organised the box Harrison keeps on the front seat of his P/U Truck. The BOX was used by Harrison’s father over the years, Back in the day. That box holds some special meanings. By late on Saturday after confering with the wife, daughter, CDC and others I made a decision to pretty much shelter in place. For now, I’ll miss my days with my Buddy, the education he has provided me on so many things. Last week was a Latin language class of sorts.
Arbor- tree, Walnut -Euglandis, Maple – Acernis, Wood – lignum
The End – Finis
So, I’ve most likely bored you to death should you have stayed to the end. Be SAFE, Be SMART and don’t hoard the toilet paper.
Don’t forget to check on the eldery.
theRooster Semper Fi
Continuing down the road with Harrison
On this absolutely gorgeous day on Delmarva, I find my Shotgun passenger walking about his immaculate manicured lawn with his Grip ‘n Grab picking up Pine Shats and Pinecones that lie upon the ground. The Loblolly Pine has a habit of littering after a few windy days.
“Good morning Harrison.” I get a greeting in return, and my Monday companion returns to his present task. There appears to be no interest in ending this task. Harrison often becomes overly focused on a job or desire to accomplish the mission.
We chit chat about his morning trip to Physical Therapy at the M.A.C. center, where we might go today, or anything else he might wish to share. Nothing, just more pick-up-sticks with the Grab ‘n Go. Where will this day take us, I wonder.
With the 5-gallon nursery planter pot in one hand, the Grab ‘n go in the other, this man has a choreographed rhythm to his work. Slowly he makes his way towards the driveway and the P/U truck that will hall his days catch away to the dumpster at the nursery, where we first head each day on a trash rum.
Harrison’s wife, Sylvia, stands at the side door, and she mentions she’s got to get going and has things to do. “what did she say?” He asks. Yes, my friends, there are hearing issues here. The three of us have the same infliction, and this brings about some comical situations from time to time.
We gather the trash for the local dumpster, get a bottle of water each, hydration is essential, you know. Did you know we should each be drinking eight (8) glasses of water each day? Web MD has an easy to understand this concept at https://www.webmd.com/diet/how-much-water-to-drink#1-2
On this day, we head East to Georgetown Delaware, former V.P. Joe Biden’s home state. I must drop off my Tax info to the accountant. Georgetown has a neat tradition after an election year. There’s a great newspaper article on this if you care to read it.
Burying of the hatchet: Return Day’s post-election traditions unique to Sussex County
Would it not be wonderful if our Congressional representatives in our nation’s capital could do this.
After our stop in Georgetown, we head toward Lewes, DE. Lewes is part of the round trip Delaware Bay, Cape May – Lewes Ferry. We grab some lunch at the local Cracker Barrel. What did Harrison eat, you might ask. Chicken and Dumplings with a side of Mac & Cheese. The chauffeur on this day had two Pork Chops, and sides of green beans, and Collared Greens. I had two of the greens. Why I got two I have no idea, I ate them both, however.
For those of you with no clue what Greens are, here are two sites for you, one is a recipe, the other healthy eating attributes. Greens are a historically Southern dish.
Recipe for Greens – https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/southern-collard-greens
Health Benefits of Greens – https://facty.com/lifestyle/wellness/health-benefits-of-collard-greens/?style=quick&utm_source=adwords&adid=337424091997&utm_medium=c-search&utm_term=collard%20greens&utm_campaign=f-h-usa-health-benefits-of-collard-greens-desktop&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI0r6a1MCD6AIVx5yzCh0gQAM3EAAYASAAEgKqfvD_BwE
We would pass many large fields on this day, and my companion was in his glory. The fact that the sun shone brightly and the temperature reached 68f, 20C for those in the rest of the world. Will we ever join the rest of the world
We closed this day riding along the beach in Lewes with its condos and beach rentals on the bay. On our way out of the area, I spied a Jerky Store, the first I’ve ever seen. I’m a mostly a Keto follower, and Jerky is a great treat, of course I had to stop. So many choices, so little time. If you like Jerky, check out the web site for a Jerky sore near you. A new store opens in Ocean City, MD this summer.
I’m asked from time to time about the two Roosters that greet you at the top of the page. They are both ours, Amos is the Brown and Andy the white. They are gentle giants, protective of their five ladies and keep a vigil constantly for the ever dangerous Retailed Chicken-Hawk.
theRooster
Travels on Delmarva with Harrison
Steinbeck had “Travels with Charlie.” Mitch Album has his “Tuesdays with Morey,” and there was “On the road with Jack Kerouac.” I think I’ve now got the start of “Travels on Delmarva with Harrison.” You’ve already met Harrison last month at Kern’s retirement party.
Back in October of last year, my son-in-law asked me if I’d be interested in spending a few days a week with his father traveling about the shore. The shore would be the Eastern Shore, known to many as the Delmarva Peninsula. His father is in his late 80’s, and he experienced a stroke several years ago, which has affected his speech, balance, and short term memory to some degree.
Harrison is the husband of Sylvia and the father of Greg, Lisa, and Julie. There are also grandchildren and, most recently, a great-grandchild. His father immigrated to the United States in the early 1920s from the Netherlands after first arriving as a flower bulb salesman. Harison’s father ultimately established a nursery business in the Salisbury Maryland area. That business, under Harrison’s love and guidance has grown considerably. Under Greg’s guidance the nursery continues to propagate.
So, just where is the Delmarva Peninsula, you might ask? The Delmarva Peninsula encompasses parts of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. All that land east of the Chesapeake Bay and south of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal ending at the Virginia, Bay Bridge-Tunnel at Cape Charles, makes up the Delmarva Peninsula. We even have a Regional Spaceport here.
Harrison loves the history of Delmarva. He loves the land, especially the open fields, many of which are planted this time of year with Winter Wheat. These fields remind me of Ireland, so green in their contrast to the trees still in their winter hibernation. Historical homes and buildings are a natural magnet for Harrison. Harrison also loves his midday meals, which we share. Perhaps we shall have some Gastro insight down the road.
My new-found buddy knows the short term memory has taken a trip to somewhere not in the present. There are moments when a delightful chuckle will come up, “oops,” he might say, you better ask Sylvia that one when he has a thought, and it fly’s off the carrier deck like an F-18. Never is this gentleman frustrated with his position in life. He is a kind, gentle human being who loves his family, life, the land, and the Eastern Shore.
His devoted wife drives him to the local senior center five days a week for some Physical Therapy, and comradery, with those on the same station in life as he. We are starting our fourth month together, and I continue to learn from this man with so much knowledge of what I like to say, this, that, and other things.
May this week bring me more adventure as I travel the Eastern Shore with Harrison. With the blessing of those close to him, I look forward to sharing some of them with you.
Thank you Sylvia, Lisa, Greg, and Julie for sharing someone special with me.
Super Tuesday’s this week, don’t forget, vote early, vote often.
As The Rooster Crows 