1st Draft

I guess it’s not surprising that, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, people seek out or draw historical parallels in the hopes of finding a bit of guidance or historicsl context for what we’re going through. The most “apples to apples”…

I guess it’s not surprising that, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, people seek out or draw historical parallels in the hopes of finding a bit of guidance or historicsl context for what we’re going through. The most “apples to apples” comparison seems to be the 1918 flu epidemic. While the historical details of it are undoubtedly interesting, what’s I’ve found most surprising is that there’s a great deal of writing on how it faded from society’s collective memory, almost like a past fad or trend. Decades later, when asked about this, the writer HL Mencken said: “The human mind always tries to expunge the intolerable from memory, just as it tries to conceal it while current.”.

It seems to me that Mencken is correct. Nobody with the possible exception of those profiteering off of it could conceivably want to experience this crisis again, and denial can serve a rational purpose in that case. But we should admit that there are problems that are now glaring that could have been avoided before this crisis had we been paying proper attention and should not be swept back out of sight when our ongoing crisis is over. 

As it is not over, keep your distance, cover your face, and, if you have a car, no matter what block you’re on (yes, that means open streets, as well), move it as per Alternate Side Parking regulations that were again updated today. I have no idea why or how this specific policy was changed on “open streets,” but regardless, it is the policy, and nobody wants to see an orange envelope on their windshield. I just hope DOT remembers to be more communicative throughout the rest of this crisis and beyond. 

Speaking of communication, on a much better note, I texted with Congresswoman Clarke today regarding the Heroes Act as she and her colleagues are working to make sure the bill they passed Friday becomes law. If and hopefully, when passed into law, it would prevent millions from suffering further, and the suffering should not be compounded by inaction.

The Heroes Act will also impact the city’s budget , which is due June 31st. The budget will certainly be a topic at our June 17th “Check-In.” You join the nearly 40 people who have already signed up here.

There’s another link to sign up below, along with other items of use and interest below my email signature, but you’re under no obligation to check any of them. So either way, stay safe and enjoy the rest of the day. 

This is the web archive of a newsletter originally sent by email to Brooklyn Community Board 6 subscribers on Monday, May 18, 2020. The email edition may contain additional event listings and links.