RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
BostonCard - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 02:04 PM)gailtate Wrote: After further consideration, I now believe that this woman has absolutely nothing to say that's worthy of discussion. Her outsize prominence is based solely on her ability to play the game of volleyball exceptionally well. This says all you need to know about our culture and times.
I don't agree with the message, but I'm not sure what exactly we should expect from our athletes. I don't have an issue with athletes using their "outsized prominence" regardless of what game they play exceptionally well, to give voice to issues they feel strongly about. And some issues, which have until now been given too little attention, can be brought to the fore by athletes. And while I would prefer that they not need an athlete to increase awareness, I think that on balance, it can be helpful, even if you occasionally will get messages with which you don't agree with.
BC
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings - Softball Fan - 09-08-2020
My opinion of Kerri went south when she became too greedy for the AVP. Walsh started her own professional volleyball association which will be bankrupt within two years. She left her 2016 Olympic partner, April Ross, who is the best beach player in the world.
The AVP only has so much revenue to work with. Most of the matches are free to the public because no one will pay to watch. TV is an occasional revenue source but the ratings are pretty low. Where did Walsh think the AVP was going to get the $millions she felt she deserved.
I don't know what she is thinking posting an anti-mask agenda. For several years I felt she was a little detached from the real world. However, in her hey-day she did a lot of good for the sport in the USA with her performances in the Olympics.
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
teejers1 - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 02:42 PM)fullmetal Wrote: Oh come on teejers...there are various enforceable restrictions on gathering size, indoor occupancy %s, etc etc that could be relaxed if community transmission were much reduced and if testing/contact tracing were highly capable of quick detection and early warning.
I'm not sure if meaningful college football stadium occupancy would be advisable even with masks + every-other-seat distancing + low community prevalence/transmission, but it would at least be in the conversation. Restaurants/live music venues would certainly see a better lifeline. I think public K-12 schools could be back to in-person with masks and more prevalent outdoor options/rotations.
Although new case counts are rebounding in various spots outside the US, we've seen life in countries with sober public health responses return to a semblence of normalcy not currently seen in the US. It just takes a team effort.
And therein lies the rub. Where in the US do we have "testing/contact tracing were highly capable of quick detection and early warning." Nowhere. Thus, under your criteria, we can't ever ease up on what we have until there's a widespread vaccine.
And I hate to break it to you, but there are going to be fans in stands, in lower %s (I agree with you that the wisdom of those moves is questionable). Regardless, fans in the stands is "in the conversation" already - and in places doing less well than Santa Clara County on community spread.
But what is your threshold level of community spread that would embolden you to open more things up? What is the threshold criterion/criteria, and perhaps more importantly why is that your criterion/criteria? What would comfort you enough to open up indoor dining? Indoor bars? Fans in stands at football games? At hoops games?
It inevitably returns to what is it you're trying to avoid or ensure, right? If it is "avoid deaths, period," then nothing suffices except total lock down for everyone. After that, it's line drawing. So a little clarity on how and why lines are being drawn would be incredibly useful - we've had none of that.
And HC seems to be a pretty clear line that people can see, track, and understand. You want to be able to ensure that people who need hospital care to recover from the virus to receive it. (And in fact, I believe that is ultimately what all the "we must crush the curve" folks use as basis for demanding same - i.e., if we don't crush the curve then we risk Hospital Armageddon, eventually, when we open thing up). Well, we haven't "crushed the curve" and HC has been remarkably good (and ridiculously good in SCC, throughout the entire time period).
Bottom line: the "policy" response to this pandemic has been a disaster, starting (of course) with the White House. But CA has been less than consistent, and no one has articulated reasoning for their decisions (especially the Tsar Bureaucrat in SCC).
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
cardcrimson - 09-08-2020
I wonder if you'd believe similarly about a prominent basketball player and his or her opinions on Hong Kong. . . .
(09-08-2020, 02:04 PM)gailtate Wrote: After further consideration, I now believe that this woman has absolutely nothing to say that's worthy of discussion. Her outsize prominence is based solely on her ability to play the game of volleyball exceptionally well. This says all you need to know about our culture and times.
lex24 -
lex24 - 09-08-2020
I find it interesting that this comment was ignored: “We have become a country & a world estranged from each other & it’s more deeply unhealthy than any virus could ever be.”
It’s a worthy discussion to have. And there is some merit to it. But it got lost in the mask statement.
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
Goose - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 03:44 PM)teejers1 Wrote: And HC seems to be a pretty clear line that people can see, track, and understand. You want to be able to ensure that people who need hospital care to recover from the virus to receive it. (And in fact, I believe that is ultimately what all the "we must crush the curve" folks use as basis for demanding same - i.e., if we don't crush the curve then we risk Hospital Armageddon, eventually, when we open thing up). Well, we haven't "crushed the curve" and HC has been remarkably good (and ridiculously good in SCC, throughout the entire time period).
Yes it has. The people getting sick are generally young and don't go to the hospital. The care for the people who do go to the hospital is much better because of lessons learned. We are pretty "stable" in our current configuration. Most "old people" are still staying home and being careful. It is true that more people are dying (deaths per 100K) than in most other countries, but apparently we are OK with that. As we open up more things cases will go up and more people will die. As long as there is still room in the hospitals, it appears people will be OK with that too.
The problem is that deaths is a "lagging indicator". We can be OK there and have a bunch of cases already getting sick that aren't in the system yet. We can then go from OK to hospital overload in a two week interval, and no action taken in that interval can have any effect. These people are already sick, we just don't know it. Can we avoid that situation? Maybe, but only by being more cautious than most people want. I wouldn't bet on it.
RE: lex24 -
cardcrimson - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 05:53 PM)lex24 Wrote: I find it interesting that this comment was ignored: “We have become a country & a world estranged from each other & it’s more deeply unhealthy than any virus could ever be.”
It’s a worthy discussion to have. And there is some merit to it. But it got lost in the mask statement.
Thought similarly about that comment. How many times have you seen someone walking towards you, with or without mask, and have a bit of apprehension? How many times do you actually change course to maximize the distance, and fail to make eye contact? Kids are being taught to not play catch with other kids, because someone hypothesized that they could get Covid from a ball. We are indeed becoming estranged from each other, and it isn't healthy, mentally or physically.
lex24 -
lex24 - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 08:43 AM)2006alum Wrote: Proof that even a Stanford degree cannot inoculate one against stupidity. Funny that despite similar mask requirements during the Spanish flu epidemic, society was not crushed and the spirit of the world survived. This too will pass.
First, the mask requirements were local. Second there was plenty of pushback.
The “ spirit of the world” may not have been crushed. But it certainly was not healed. Depression. Rise of Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan and Stalinism. Then WW2. So, I’m not sure that’s a particularly good analogy.
RE: lex24 -
pefloresjr - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 06:13 PM)lex24 Wrote: (09-08-2020, 08:43 AM)2006alum Wrote: Proof that even a Stanford degree cannot inoculate one against stupidity. Funny that despite similar mask requirements during the Spanish flu epidemic, society was not crushed and the spirit of the world survived. This too will pass.
First, the mask requirements were local. Second there was plenty of pushback.
The “ spirit of the world” may not have been crushed. But it certainly was not healed. Depression. Rise of Nazi Germany, Imperial Japan and Stalinism. Then WW2. So, I’m not sure that’s a particularly good analogy.
How again is all of that tied to having to wear masks in 1918? If any connection could be drawn at all, and I don't think it can, the toll of the large number of deaths would be a much better candidate than the fact that people were inconvenienced by trying to avoid those deaths.
Cheers,
Pete F.
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
2006alum - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 02:04 PM)Papa John Wrote: Just noticed that KWJ posted a follow-up on Instagram (see below). Umm, I'm not sure she made the situation any better for herself...
https://www.instagram.com/p/CE2JSRhllw9/
WTF does a truce mean when it comes to mask wearing? Either you think people should wear them or you don't. There is no truce. Or to paraphrase Yoda, "Do or do not, there is no tr[uce]."
lex24 -
lex24 - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 06:41 PM)2006alum Wrote: (09-08-2020, 02:04 PM)Papa John Wrote: Just noticed that KWJ posted a follow-up on Instagram (see below). Umm, I'm not sure she made the situation any better for herself...
https://www.instagram.com/p/CE2JSRhllw9/
WTF does a truce mean when it comes to mask wearing? Either you think people should wear them or you don't. There is no truce. Or to paraphrase Yoda, "Do or do not, there is no tr[uce]."
Judas Priest. Her post was about more than just masks. She just wanted to tamp down the rhetoric.
But that’s impossible these days. So it’s not enough to suggest that she’s wrong. She’s now a bad person. Etc. etc. etc. What a bunch of horseshit
(09-08-2020, 02:04 PM)gailtate Wrote: (09-08-2020, 08:02 AM)lex24 Wrote: She posted on Instagram. Said an unattributed quote on masks [“This has not been enforced it’s been consented to”]inspired her. She wrote that she stands with those that have been sick or seen loved ones die due to the virus, but contends wearing mask and other public health measures “ have crushed our society, people’s livlihoods, our children’s spirit & fabric of our world. We have become a country & a world estranged from each other & it’s more deeply unhealthy than any virus could ever be.”
Unfortunate that she put this in context of wearing a mask. Because some of what she says has some points that are worthy of discussion.
After further consideration, I now believe that this woman has absolutely nothing to say that's worthy of discussion. Her outsize prominence is based solely on her ability to play the game of volleyball exceptionally well. This says all you need to know about our culture and times.
Really, wow. I agree with your last sentence btw. For completely different reasons than you intended.
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
cardcrimson - 09-08-2020
Frankly, I have to applaud her for stating her beliefs and opinions, very openly and publicly, knowing that many will disagree. It takes a lot of courage to take a stand, especially when said stands violate the accepted norms of the masses. Many here have called her "stupid", probably without even looking at the context of what she wrote and did. Here's that context from her Instagram page:
"This is going to be a long post & it’s going to upset some people. My intention is NEVER to hurt or disrespect. Please know that. I am working my way through these curious times that have me questioning everything. I am wanting to lead & stand for my beliefs WITHOUT upsetting people but, per usual when one takes a stand, this is unlikely. If this hurts or upsets you, I am sorry. I am working through my thoughts & my way throughout the madness of 2020. I am wanting to be a light, an encourager of the strength + resilience within each of us and I aspire to be someone whom empowers others to take ownership of all sides of their lives. There is freedom & deep satisfaction in living this way. I want this for everyone.
Here we go ....
I had a little exercise in being brave yesterday & I’m still a bit edgy about it.
I went shopping without a mask on ??? & this is why ... I read a quote the other day that shook me - -
THIS HAS NOT BEEN ENFORCED, IT’S BEEN CONSENTED TO.
This statement woke me up & the truth of it has had me obsessing on the matter of how I can mindfully & compassionately stand up for my rights & for the freedoms our constitution has granted us all WITHOUT being reckless or putting anyone else in danger.
We are all endlessly complaining about the restrictive & arbitrarily selective rules that we are being strongly “suggested” to follow & yet we are all consenting; Not much of a fight, just a lot of complaining & strongly disagreeing with this manipulation, but we keep consenting. It’s maddening. It has crushed our society, people’s livelihoods, our children’s spirits, & the fabric of our world. We have become a country & a world estranged from each other & it is more deeply unhealthy than any virus could ever be.
I know people are getting sick & many have gone to Heaven. I have lived through a lot of loss in my family, in my life. I cherish life. I would never downplay the impact of a single loss of life. That is it’s own conversation & my heart goes out to all those suffering poor health, the loss of a loved one and the fear that the reaction to & media coverage of COVID-19 has created in your days.
Cont. in comments ....
I believe we can protect the vulnerable while opening up society. I am so willing to support the vulnerable. My family has vulnerable humans within it. I have some friends who are vulnerable and I would do anything for any of them.
Mostly, I want to empower people to start/continue to live healthy lives. Eat well and eat real food. Prioritize sleep. Move and get your heart working every day. Pay attention to your breath and perhaps start a breath work protocol to work and strengthen your lungs. Get outside. Think good thoughts. KNOW your immune system is designed to support you through any illness - we must work support our entire system. I want people to stop living in fear and start living in a way that strengthens themselves body, mind and spirit.
Things won’t open up and freedoms won’t come back unless we are willing to push back and stand up for them. I am willing to fight for the freedoms I have been guaranteed by my constitution. I don’t want to fight anyone in the process of this and I’d rather not make anyone uncomfortable or upset. If that happens I pray for understanding and I pray that I have the capacity to handle it with grace.
I am praying for the world every day. I see so much unity and so many blessings daily but the scary part truly scares me and I hope we can better come together to address the issues and challenges at hand. I want what you want. Health, happiness, safety and security for all. I’m at my limit for how it is “ensured” to us. Basically this quote sums it up:
I PREFER DANGEROUS FREEDOM TO PEACEFUL SLAVERY. - Thomas Jefferson ??
♥️ & ? to all."
And she continued:
"The conversation I am having with myself (and the point of this post) has to do with FREEDOM and how I, as an individual, can fight for it.
And so yesterday I took a step. It was incredibly uncomfortable (shockingly so) and I was tempted to just say F it many times and put my mask on. I didn’t. It was hard. I feel a bit braver for having chosen to live the discomfort.
Within 60 seconds of me walking into the store a woman made a snarky comment and then went and turned me in to a store employee. The employee seemed to say that it was within my rights to do as I was doing and everyone carried on. I was rattled. The woman was pissed. She seemed to hover around me as I shopped, shooting me angry looks & angry vibes but we all went on our way. I gave people their space and tried really hard to be cool. I’m not cool by nature and so this was doubly hard.
Ugh. I do not want to be compelled to do things I do not believe in because it makes others feel better. That’s actually THE ONE reason why I would do such a thing - to make others feel comfortable - but this is so much bigger than being a security blanket for others or being PC.
This has become a very complex situation with a very a complex set of problems - I believe that only a simple solution can solve this and simple choices by each of us will walk us toward the solution. Individually we can respectfully stand up for our beliefs while supporting and being mindful of the most vulnerable around us. We all have personal responsibility within this situation and whether we are vulnerable or not, we all must carry on in a way that supports our wellbeing. I want to give people space to respond to these times in a way that serves them best and I want the same consideration. Violence and vitriol are not acceptable."
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
OutsiderFan - 09-08-2020
Social media has done far more damage to the fabric of society than any virus or person wearing a mask.
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
cardcrimson - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 08:15 PM)OutsiderFan Wrote: Social media has done far more damage to the fabric of society than any virus or person wearing a mask.
So did rock and roll, television, speakeasies, etc. etc. etc.
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
BobK - 09-08-2020
Always amazes me what freedom means to some people. Call me Sgt Sucker
lex24 -
lex24 - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 08:15 PM)OutsiderFan Wrote: Social media has done far more damage to the fabric of society than any virus or person wearing a mask.
I agree Outsider.
(09-08-2020, 08:32 PM)BobK Wrote: Always amazes me what freedom means to some people. Call me Sgt Sucker
“Freedoms just another word for nothing left to lose. And nothing ain’t worth nothing, but it’s free.”
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
Phogge - 09-08-2020
Did I read this incorrectly? Freedom and slavery intertwined with wearing a mask? A little cloth mask? And slavery? Please.
RE: lex24 -
2006alum - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 06:57 PM)lex24 Wrote: (09-08-2020, 06:41 PM)2006alum Wrote: (09-08-2020, 02:04 PM)Papa John Wrote: Just noticed that KWJ posted a follow-up on Instagram (see below). Umm, I'm not sure she made the situation any better for herself...
https://www.instagram.com/p/CE2JSRhllw9/
WTF does a truce mean when it comes to mask wearing? Either you think people should wear them or you don't. There is no truce. Or to paraphrase Yoda, "Do or do not, there is no tr[uce]."
Judas Priest. Her post was about more than just masks. She just wanted to tamp down the rhetoric.
But that’s impossible these days. So it’s not enough to suggest that she’s wrong. She’s now a bad person. Etc. etc. etc. What a bunch of horseshit
1. I didn't call her a bad person, I said her take was stupid and incoherent. Please don't put words in my mouth.
2. Calling someone's viewpoint "a bunch of horseshit" is, IMHO, both rhetorically hollow and not exactly ideal in what is typically a family friendly forum.
3. If you can genuinely explain to me what a truce looks like as a coherent concept when the debate is over whether we should be required to wear masks in public/indoor settings, I'd genuinely welcome it. To me, the issue seems to have become intractable precisely because there is no easy way to reach a compromise.
More broadly: Yes, I do think social media will be the downfall of our society. But since almost everyone keeps at it no matter how lonely and angry anti-social media makes them, how rational can we really say we are, anyway?
RE: Kerry Walsh Jennings -
Phogge - 09-08-2020
I love you Lex and I look forward to our next lunch in whatever decade but back in the Covid dark ages on T Dome a bunch of guys argued that shutting down was wrong. One guy whom I admire even offered to die because he was, “Old and fat.” Well we opened up and holy moly a surge ensued. I wouldn’t hold my breath on a viable vaccine being delivered quickly so everybody including our loud mouth deniers like Miss Jennings please just wear a GD mask.
RE: lex24 -
teejers1 - 09-08-2020
(09-08-2020, 10:09 PM)2006alum Wrote: 1. I didn't call her a bad person, I said her take was stupid and incoherent. Please don't put words in my mouth.
More broadly: Yes, I do think social media will be the downfall of our society. But since almost everyone keeps at it no matter how lonely and angry anti-social media makes them, how rational can we really say we are, anyway?
Hmmm. Pretty sure up above you said: "Proof that even a Stanford degree cannot inoculate one against stupidity." But hey, at least she's not a bad person!
But I did chuckle at the Yoda reference. And I think I agree that social media will be the downfall of civilized society (which is partly why I don't do facebook, instagram, or whatever else everyone else is doing these days . . . ).
P.S. My main reaction to reading her IG post here: I'm surprised mask wearing was not mandatory wherever it was she was shopping. (The more I think about it, the more I think that can't be right . . .can it?) But if it truly was mask optional, then it's hard to get too down on her for (evidently, respectfully) declining to where a mask where that was a viable choice.
Or stated differently: if it was so obviously stupid and unsafe to NOT wear masks while shopping indoors, wouldn't that be a county or state (or store) mandate? Strange . . .