Flowerwall's Profile

Why don't we have all of our higher ups spend a LITTLE BIT MORE TIME blaming China as attempted ...

RichCC comments on Apr 19, 2020:

It's a shame we don't have more definitive tests. /snark It would have been nice to test whether she had antibodies (whether she had had the virus). What is a shame is that we're betting on probabilities and possibilities rather than acting on direct evidence.

Flowerwall replies on Apr 19, 2020:

@RichCC I know protestors want to open the US back up and they are getting praised by people in high places. That looks like, what? Counterproductive? Saying one thing and then supporting the opposite? I think people who are not following basic government mandates and putting fellow citizens lives at risk should be fined with all proceeds going to covid victims.

Why don't we have all of our higher ups spend a LITTLE BIT MORE TIME blaming China as attempted ...

RichCC comments on Apr 19, 2020:

It's a shame we don't have more definitive tests. /snark It would have been nice to test whether she had antibodies (whether she had had the virus). What is a shame is that we're betting on probabilities and possibilities rather than acting on direct evidence.

Flowerwall replies on Apr 19, 2020:

@RichCC How many Americans are CURRENTLY INFECTED with covid? When numbers start reaching certain levels, at what point do we say we are "on fire"? Is it when the fire is over and all we are left with is the burnt out shell? WHEN? A fire can be easily perceived, covid CANNOT given the high asymptomatic rate and limited scope for testing we have been using due to having limited tests available. Once community spread is documented contact tracing is useless. Define WHEN we say we can talk freely about having or possibly having had covid? Let's also ask the Chinese citizens when they are allowed to talk openly about covid and then compare our answers.

Why don't we have all of our higher ups spend a LITTLE BIT MORE TIME blaming China as attempted ...

RichCC comments on Apr 19, 2020:

It's a shame we don't have more definitive tests. /snark It would have been nice to test whether she had antibodies (whether she had had the virus). What is a shame is that we're betting on probabilities and possibilities rather than acting on direct evidence.

Flowerwall replies on Apr 19, 2020:

I don't care what the probability is - violating basic tenets of free speech is UNACCEPTABLE by any standard and I can tell you that with absolute certainty. Why? Because if we don't have free speech than we are NOT who we say we are "free people".

Care Minister MP Helen Whately LAUGHS as Piers Morgan confronts her over 4,000 coronavirus care home...

Flowerwall comments on Apr 19, 2020:

Let's be fair. She could not see the paper being held up by Piers. Anyone who makes light of the death of constituents is unworthy to hold the seat. But let's not confuse what we are seeing. I do understand your anger. We have to remain clear-headed in our perceptions.

Flowerwall replies on Apr 19, 2020:

@LenHazell53 Thanks. I will watch.

Care Minister MP Helen Whately LAUGHS as Piers Morgan confronts her over 4,000 coronavirus care home...

Flowerwall comments on Apr 19, 2020:

Let's be fair. She could not see the paper being held up by Piers. Anyone who makes light of the death of constituents is unworthy to hold the seat. But let's not confuse what we are seeing. I do understand your anger. We have to remain clear-headed in our perceptions.

Flowerwall replies on Apr 19, 2020:

@LenHazell53 I did not watch all of it. At what minute exactly?

How do billionaire computer programmers become so knowledgeable about national unpreparedness for ...

MarkiusMahamius comments on Apr 17, 2020:

Worth noting that hes not under a gag order like most of the govt employees, so hes going to get more press attention- they've gotta talk to someone who sounds important. Add that he actually does know stuff and is very invested in global diseases. That's pretty much been his life since he ...

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

I think I was overthinking things and not seeing it clearly. I googled something on YouTube trying to find something I had watched previously and found a man from Africa talking about how they, the Gates are having terrible things said about them and stoking fear in the people there. Like in other words the Gates want to harm the people instead of helping. It's horrible. I think people are afraid. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=eAoBSEFba74&t=221s This is the video where the false claims are addressed. I think the presenter does a good job of refuting the falseideas. A Nigerian politician makes the claim against the Gates. Reminds me of things said recently about Gates by Roger Stone, spreading conspiracy theory. Edit: I read up a little on the man behind this video, Dr. Sunday Adelaja. He currently resides in Ukraine and was part of a movement there to help fight election fraud about 15 years ago. Edit 2: But then he did a political about face 5 years later? I don't know too much about Ukrainian politics. So, he may not be the person to take opinion from. Still I am interested to hear opinion of os the Gatses from Africans. So far I hear vaccines are good, but the using GMOS which have good and bad side.

How do billionaire computer programmers become so knowledgeable about national unpreparedness for ...

St-Sinner comments on Apr 17, 2020:

I think it is reading, collecting knowledge and the brain wiring.

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

@St-Sinner On second thought, suspicion of Gates probably doesn't make sense here. He has done a lot of good. I think I was viewing this all in terms of the U.S. OUR national interests and defense whereas Gates is probably seeing this from the perspective of poorer countries who DO INDEED lack the needed funding. There is strong need there and he is advocating for that, and very rightly so. I don't want to be part of a group that is very critical of the most effective human beings at solving world problems. You could be right in what you said about him, about Gates. I guess as just an average person who generally doen't see what is happening out in the bigger world up close, it's easy to be mistrustful. I have seen atleast two instances where the Gates' are discussed with suspicion or bad intentions with regard to their role in the pandemic. It does make a person wonder.

How do billionaire computer programmers become so knowledgeable about national unpreparedness for ...

FearlessFly comments on Apr 17, 2020:

I have been running Linux since the 90's, but I give credit where it is due . . . https://www.gatesfoundation.org/yearinreview/2017/en/review/pandemics https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/03/bill-gates-epidemic-pandemic-preparedness-ebola-covid-19/ ...

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

@FearlessFly Was that a typo for Gates Foundation above? I think I did hear something about that. Yes, I did. I don't want to knock anybody, not Bill Gates and the philanthropic work he has done. On the contrary, his work is commendable. I may not understand. Vital pieces of info I myself am lacking, let's clarify it then. I want to know. Superficially it looks strange to me. Additionally I have heard major US computer corporations, or I don't know exactly who, helped authoritarian regimes set up aspects of their own computer systems. So yeah, I think computer people can be highly suspect. I don't know details on that. Second hand information.

How often are "mock prep" exercises like Crimson Contagion participated in?

Mofo1953 comments on Apr 17, 2020:

What's your point?

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

@Mofo1953 No. You may be perceiving something that is not there with regard to my emotion. Not sure why you are assuming so. I want to understand my government's use of resources better and instead get labelled as being oversensitive or irritable? Hmm. What do you think about the government's response? I haven't heard that yet in your post here. Talk about it. I want to know more. Your opinion. I want to hear a lot of ideas!

How do billionaire computer programmers become so knowledgeable about national unpreparedness for ...

FearlessFly comments on Apr 17, 2020:

I have been running Linux since the 90's, but I give credit where it is due . . . https://www.gatesfoundation.org/yearinreview/2017/en/review/pandemics https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/03/bill-gates-epidemic-pandemic-preparedness-ebola-covid-19/ ...

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

I would like to see his TED talk that you linked. He said we haven't invested in preparedness, but yet what about biodefense? Is that a truthful statement he made in the article you linked? "we’ve actually invested very little in a system to stop an epidemic" Does he mean internationally? It's easy to interpret that as the US, maybe he is talking from the global perspective.

How do billionaire computer programmers become so knowledgeable about national unpreparedness for ...

1of5 comments on Apr 17, 2020:

You mean retired billionaires who have time to run a foundation dealing with infectious diseases and deal with experts on the subject all the time? Those guys? They should quit talking to and funding experts on the subject and just google shit, right? But who cares if he predicted it a couple ...

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

@1of5 Thanks for your very helpful response. You are a member of this "community" as some people like to call the sham, but yet seem to lack basic precepts in human civility in your interaction with my post. Must let the other person know (we were having a discussion on this very topic recently). Point for me!

How do billionaire computer programmers become so knowledgeable about national unpreparedness for ...

St-Sinner comments on Apr 17, 2020:

I think it is reading, collecting knowledge and the brain wiring.

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

@St-Sinner "We all know that the governments selectively feeds information to people that is convenient to them" WHAT? So Bill Gates IS on the House Intelligence Committee, or well versed in national security interests unrelated to computer programming. That is bombshell. Is that what you are saying? So are we to believe that after all this massive spending by the billions over the years on biodefense somebody is whispering "Bill, really we are NOT READY. Please somehow make sure we are ready." We have probably spent somewhere near his net worth. Why appeal to him? I don't attempt to negate the intelligence of Bill Gates. I once encountered his reading list online and was absolutely stunned by the breadth of knowledge he must have. I can't understand how a government outsider of his clear, superior intelligence continously bets AGAINST the capability of "the world's greatest super power" in issues related to national security. Or he's NOT a government outsider? That's what we should assume, or is it?

How often are "mock prep" exercises like Crimson Contagion participated in?

davknight comments on Apr 17, 2020:

Most simulations are conducted on yellow legal pads, between two teams of "experts"-- the 'blue' team, and the 'red' team.

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

Okay. What about simulation exercises that occur on the federal level and involve vast sums of tax payer dollars? Where can we find out about those? I am sure very useful data must be generated and acted upon otherwise the exercises would just appear as very expensive play. Vast sums of money, how does the average citizen learn about the useful information generated? We all need to be talking about pandemic preparedness, every which way. This simulation exercise seems like the perfect place to start the scrutiny. Where is the information accessible? Even wikipedia seems to be lacking here, no links or further information about other simulations or actions taken in response to this simulation. Given the current pandemic we are leading the world in, and I don't mean that in a flattering way, why isn't it being put out there? This was a DRILL, we should be comparing this drill to our current reality and other countries reality and looking for every mistake and everything right.

How do billionaire computer programmers become so knowledgeable about national unpreparedness for ...

St-Sinner comments on Apr 17, 2020:

I think it is reading, collecting knowledge and the brain wiring.

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

Could be. But if he were to look at the money spent by the federal government over the years and he's not on the House Intelligence committee, where is he basing his info on? When do outsiders (outside of federal government) KNOW we are not prepared. What gives it away? I would think pandemic preparedness is LINKED to national security. Is that NOT a reasonable assumption to make? Are the two issues NOT intrinsically intertwined, or have I been hit in the head by a COCONUT?

How do billionaire computer programmers become so knowledgeable about national unpreparedness for ...

1of5 comments on Apr 17, 2020:

You mean retired billionaires who have time to run a foundation dealing with infectious diseases and deal with experts on the subject all the time? Those guys? They should quit talking to and funding experts on the subject and just google shit, right? But who cares if he predicted it a couple ...

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

"They should quit talking to and funding experts on the subject and just google shit, right?" Where did you get THAT idea? Magicians can also perform magic tricks, fun to watch if you are into that sort of thing.

How often are "mock prep" exercises like Crimson Contagion participated in?

Novelty comments on Apr 17, 2020:

Watch out for the Trump "fuck up" magnitude leveling propaganda. The WHO did make mistakes initially. Trump is trying to hide behind that, like an elephant hiding behind a coconut tree. 💋

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

@AstralSmoke I wish we could hear more from the people in the government agencies charged with handling it all. The CDC lack of forecasting or projection was terrible. We got the best projections from John Hopkins, attendees at Event 201. I guess they weren't just discussing the economic impact of a world pandemic.Love how knowledgeable they were, but wasn't that government's job? Bill Gates should really fill us in on all this. He may know more than any other higher ups. Humanitarian more knowledgeable than a superpower government, imagine that!

How often are "mock prep" exercises like Crimson Contagion participated in?

Mofo1953 comments on Apr 17, 2020:

What's your point?

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

@Mofo1953 Questioning. I am questioning. I want usefulness for tax dollars spent. Is that a pointless line of thought?

How often are "mock prep" exercises like Crimson Contagion participated in?

RichCC comments on Apr 17, 2020:

So in 2019 the HHS Dept. 'from January to August 2019 that tested the capacity of the U.S. federal government and twelve U.S. states to respond to a severe influenza pandemic originating in China' (from wiki -- https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crimson_Contagion ) and concluded that our government had...

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

I AM surprised. But that's only one adjective that describes my response. I hope to list the others shortly.

How often are "mock prep" exercises like Crimson Contagion participated in?

Mofo1953 comments on Apr 17, 2020:

What's your point?

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

What's yours?

The by current modeling, the virus is going to kill across the world at least one in five thousand ...

Flowerwall comments on Apr 15, 2020:

Anyone know of anyone in their real life personal life who has passed away from it? Or knows someone who knows someone who has? What about number of people you know of in your real life who have contracted it? The original question you asked is something to wonder about, but I don't see why it ...

Flowerwall replies on Apr 17, 2020:

@Fernapple Yes, something is there. But what is it? I personally, don't think it's helpful to think in terms of a "community". Online conversation group, maybe? Yes, good things can certainly come out of such things, as you mentioned. But also very negative as you mentioned in the original question and it's a horrible idea. This whole idea of people just being gone - dead and everyone just goes on. This is why I cannot understand the attitude of world leaders at the beginning of all of this, it felt to me as though they encouraged the very reality we now find ourselves in. They too have been a very destructive force in what was perceived as unity on a national level and internationally as well. Some aspect of it has been destroyed in their bumbling responses. How do you feel good about your own nation when you know the rich and famous are given special privileges with regard to this pandemic and average people are easily dismissed as unworthy? I just read about a police officer who passed away from covid after being denied testing two times. It is a NATIONAL DISGRACE! UNACCEPTABLE! It is a very backwards reality, isn't it? Then others, the rich and famous, say "experienced mild symptoms". How is it POSSIBLE? This is off topic, but it's a bad reality. I think positive sense of community is being upended the less others care.

The by current modeling, the virus is going to kill across the world at least one in five thousand ...

Flowerwall comments on Apr 15, 2020:

Anyone know of anyone in their real life personal life who has passed away from it? Or knows someone who knows someone who has? What about number of people you know of in your real life who have contracted it? The original question you asked is something to wonder about, but I don't see why it ...

Flowerwall replies on Apr 16, 2020:

@Fernapple I used to think of "online community" as a real thing. No, absolutely does not exist. Surprised you think it does? That's a question mark at the end of that last expression of thought. Please tell me how you believe in the word "online community" as a real thing. I am very curious about your perception and online experience. I believe it is much more accurate to say "an online non-community".

The headline should have read: Delusional Old Man in a Dress Wanders Streets of Rome During ...

Flowerwall comments on Mar 26, 2020:

Should be using masks

Flowerwall replies on Apr 4, 2020:

@Triphid You should probably have your name sent for a prayer request

My Hopes for when it is all over.

Flowerwall comments on Mar 28, 2020:

Less technology, more humanity

Flowerwall replies on Mar 31, 2020:

@Mcflewster Well they would more likely be victims of such technology anyway, the elites.

National Security in the US.

dalefvictor comments on Mar 31, 2020:

Basically the articles says that the report the Intelligence Departments is giving to Congress was written by people Trump put into the lead positions of these departments, Thus the information is what Trump wants people to see, rather than what is actually happening. Thus there is nothing of ...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 31, 2020:

@dalefvictor Well that's where you have to do the right thing. Speak out. It can not be lies everywhere.

National Security in the US.

dalefvictor comments on Mar 31, 2020:

Basically the articles says that the report the Intelligence Departments is giving to Congress was written by people Trump put into the lead positions of these departments, Thus the information is what Trump wants people to see, rather than what is actually happening. Thus there is nothing of ...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 31, 2020:

Actually 2019 report did give info that was relevant. Wondering about 2020 report. Did not find it. Criticism of the intelligence community from the President is not easy to hear. This was documented in a recent book. I am quite sure most people agree with that feeling, it's not easy to hear. It is saying the US is incompetent, some part of it is incompetent, the important part, the part that is responsible for securing the nation. Are we really to distrust this critical system? To say "information is what Trump wants people to see" who gives out this information? I don't believe people who are capable of holding positions of this nature are capable of being puppets. Who knows? Maybe puppets exist everywhere, even in high level government intelligence, but I wouldn'tthink it's possible. I don't know what to think. If people intentionally attempt disinformation or misinformation, I don't know the difference and it doesn't matter anyway, please let them know they have succeeded. Now what is our response? I say getting back to basics. Quant old fashioned things, like paper ballots, landline telephones, accountability from businesses and government when there are these data breaches.

National Security in the US.

dalefvictor comments on Mar 31, 2020:

In 2020, the Russians , along with anyone else that wants to, can hack into the voting system and make the winner whoever they want. Turtle man has stopped any legislation that would there to stop this. They know that if they had a fair election that almost every republican would be voted out of ...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 31, 2020:

@dalefvictor Just reading and I guess there is some question about legality of voting without showing an ID. OMG this is going to be REALLY complicated. An ongoing issue in WI at the moment. The government should not be putting citizens health at risk through voting. It's an infringement of your basic right to life. Government better start thinking about this and preparing.

National Security in the US.

dalefvictor comments on Mar 31, 2020:

In 2020, the Russians , along with anyone else that wants to, can hack into the voting system and make the winner whoever they want. Turtle man has stopped any legislation that would there to stop this. They know that if they had a fair election that almost every republican would be voted out of ...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 31, 2020:

I don't understand it all , what about a push for absentee ballots? Gov of WI is calling for in upcoming primary. It will help to save lives of our elderly. We need this in nov When covid will probably resurge.i trust us mail 1000% over electronic

My Hopes for when it is all over.

Flowerwall comments on Mar 28, 2020:

Less technology, more humanity

Flowerwall replies on Mar 29, 2020:

@Mcflewster Possibly in some ways, in some spheres, but as long as there are some bad apples, which there always will be, there remains too much possibility for misuse and exploitation. For instance this https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/18/technology/clearview-privacy-facial-recognition.html This company would have never existed if people hadn't found it neccessary to splash pictures of themselves all over Falsebook. Sure it is being used for good now, but what about when it gets in the wrong hands? Considering how quickly everything is available for sale, how long until it is the wrong hands? It's just a question of how long, not if.

Gates' TED talk today, 51mins - worth the time. [ted.com]

Flowerwall comments on Mar 26, 2020:

Can you give a breif breakdown of the key points? I can't see myself listening to this for 51 minutes. Thank you so much!

Flowerwall replies on Mar 26, 2020:

@Allamanda "unlike 90% of American video." Agreed

Gates' TED talk today, 51mins - worth the time. [ted.com]

Flowerwall comments on Mar 26, 2020:

Can you give a breif breakdown of the key points? I can't see myself listening to this for 51 minutes. Thank you so much!

Flowerwall replies on Mar 26, 2020:

@Allamanda What parts of the video did you find most interesting?

Gates' TED talk today, 51mins - worth the time. [ted.com]

Flowerwall comments on Mar 26, 2020:

Can you give a breif breakdown of the key points? I can't see myself listening to this for 51 minutes. Thank you so much!

Flowerwall replies on Mar 26, 2020:

@Allamanda Here https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Xe8fIjxicoo you can read an overview of video. Glad for that as listening to this long of a presentation is unnecessary since I am not directly involved in the medical field. Look under comments. When did Bill Gates become so well educated on contagious diseases? Has he received his medical degree? It seems a very far distance from his original line of work, though somewhat related to the work of his foundation.

Shut in and locked down? Here's a few chuckles to help take the edge off another day indoors.

Flowerwall comments on Mar 26, 2020:

What were your thoughts on the data I supplied regarding the non-religious and affected areas?

Flowerwall replies on Mar 26, 2020:

@Surfpirate I agree that it's too soon to tell but this creates huge amounts of stress.

Gates' TED talk today, 51mins - worth the time. [ted.com]

Flowerwall comments on Mar 26, 2020:

Can you give a breif breakdown of the key points? I can't see myself listening to this for 51 minutes. Thank you so much!

Flowerwall replies on Mar 26, 2020:

@Allamanda I am sick and still attempting to work. Please?

Gates' TED talk today, 51mins - worth the time. [ted.com]

StarvingArtist comments on Mar 26, 2020:

Love it!! I hope many will watch this thru to the end. Thanks for posting!

Flowerwall replies on Mar 26, 2020:

Can you give a breif breakdown of the key points? I can't see myself listening to this for 51 minutes. Thank you so much!

Point of concern.

Flowerwall comments on Mar 24, 2020:

How have you reached the position of absolute certainty it is untrue? I assume this is your position. Please correct me if I am wrong. I mostly believe it's untrue, but without more information on the etiology I do think conclusive decisions are hard to make. Please supply further information on ...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 26, 2020:

@William_Mary Yes just read an article, but beyond that point it is not telling me everything. I would really like to know more. What do you think? Please let me know more. I feel so unsure. It could be ANYTHING in my mind. The harder we work at understanding the more we put minds at ease, which is the goal. Thank you!

"Disgraced Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein has tested positive for the coronavirus, report says"...

p-nullifidian comments on Mar 23, 2020:

Those with resources have privilege. Disparities will continue until our health care system, indeed our entire political system, is reformed. How is it that US Senators and NBA athletes may be tested while so many wait? Under our current system, the fox guards the hen house. Our elected ...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 26, 2020:

@p-nullifidian https://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2017/2/9/14488980/25th-amendment-trump-pence Describes process of removing President using the 25th. It requires action on part of VP and majority of sitting cabinet members. How do the American people express their will at this point? I wonder if a majority of voters would support this course of action.

If any politician or media establishment deliberately misrepresents what is actually occurring that ...

bingst comments on Mar 22, 2020:

I've been thinking about how to make ventilators, from materials commonly found in hardware or home improvement stores.

Flowerwall replies on Mar 25, 2020:

@bingst Sounds like a good idea to come up with. Let us know if it works.

In the "hunger games like" scenario we find ourselves in with covid testing, who should be getting ...

resserts comments on Mar 24, 2020:

Off the top of my head, so it might not be fully thought out or complete: First, probably those exhibiting symptoms (to know who may have spread it, for followup with those most directly exposed and encourage self-quarantining until testing can be performed), followed by people who need to work with...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 25, 2020:

@resserts Why? You don't think mentally clarifying who should be prioritized for testing is important? Or you don't want to think about reality?

"A US epidemiologist was embedded with the Chinese CDC.

patchoullijulie comments on Mar 24, 2020:

He is the disease! Thanks, I feel better now.

Flowerwall replies on Mar 25, 2020:

@patchoullijulie Is this the Republican party? I do understand how a God like being would lose hope with humans, if so. Where I see the political "giants" of today, in history they are made small. It's difficult to remain hopeful of others in this political world.

In the "hunger games like" scenario we find ourselves in with covid testing, who should be getting ...

resserts comments on Mar 24, 2020:

Off the top of my head, so it might not be fully thought out or complete: First, probably those exhibiting symptoms (to know who may have spread it, for followup with those most directly exposed and encourage self-quarantining until testing can be performed), followed by people who need to work with...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 25, 2020:

@resserts I do want to talk about "the hellish disarray". Are hellish disarrays important topics? Well sure when people's lives are at stake. Okay, I probably didn't make it clear, but I will now. A) My purpose here is trying to make sense of what has occurred B) How do we do that? C) We look at what has occurred and figure it out. D) I ask "how should we prioritize" E) Idea generated F) Apply it to the real life scenario G) If we are successful, it makes sense!

In the "hunger games like" scenario we find ourselves in with covid testing, who should be getting ...

resserts comments on Mar 24, 2020:

Off the top of my head, so it might not be fully thought out or complete: First, probably those exhibiting symptoms (to know who may have spread it, for followup with those most directly exposed and encourage self-quarantining until testing can be performed), followed by people who need to work with...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

@Allamanda What is the covid testing like in your area? How many cases are there in your country/town/ county? Know anyone sick? Tested positive?

In the "hunger games like" scenario we find ourselves in with covid testing, who should be getting ...

resserts comments on Mar 24, 2020:

Off the top of my head, so it might not be fully thought out or complete: First, probably those exhibiting symptoms (to know who may have spread it, for followup with those most directly exposed and encourage self-quarantining until testing can be performed), followed by people who need to work with...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

@Allamanda Now I am spending time talking about why I said something instead of talking about the hellish disarray of covid testing in the US. Please focus your attention where it would be most useful.

In the "hunger games like" scenario we find ourselves in with covid testing, who should be getting ...

resserts comments on Mar 24, 2020:

Off the top of my head, so it might not be fully thought out or complete: First, probably those exhibiting symptoms (to know who may have spread it, for followup with those most directly exposed and encourage self-quarantining until testing can be performed), followed by people who need to work with...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

@Allamanda Not sure why you are questioning that.

In the "hunger games like" scenario we find ourselves in with covid testing, who should be getting ...

Sticks48 comments on Mar 24, 2020:

Me first. I'm selfish. :)

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

That may be what you would have liked to have happen, but in reality you most likely would have fallen in the group of Americans who were NOT tested. I think the backtracking of numbers in the end of the number of sick on a given day compared to the number of available tests would reveal it.

In the "hunger games like" scenario we find ourselves in with covid testing, who should be getting ...

resserts comments on Mar 24, 2020:

Off the top of my head, so it might not be fully thought out or complete: First, probably those exhibiting symptoms (to know who may have spread it, for followup with those most directly exposed and encourage self-quarantining until testing can be performed), followed by people who need to work with...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

"First, probably those exhibiting symptoms (to know who may have spread it, for followup with those most directly exposed and encourage self-quarantining until testing can be performed)," This possibility never existed as there were never an adequate supply of tests. Remember 20, 000 Americans in Wuhan. We did not have that number of kits. Additionally people coming in from Italy and other nations as well. Please apply a different strategy.

The USA, UK, and Australia - why the governments' response is weak, late and half-hearted - "They ...

Flowerwall comments on Mar 23, 2020:

White supremacists? https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/coronavirus-terrorist-white-supremacy-fbi-bioterrorism-a9417296.html

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

@Allamanda Who knows at this time. Anything is possible. I posted my article in response to the title question. This blog article goes on to give an explanation Mr. Monbiot views as being correct. I appreciate it. Hopefully my presentation of an alternative viewpoint is equally valued and treated as relevant to the discussion. Honestly Allamanda I feel somewhat put off by your question. I feel as though I was treated with a dismissive tone and during high stress times like this it can be not a good stance to take, not helpful to the cause of another individual finding peace of mind. I personally read the news and wonder. What would you think of the article I linked? Complete nonsense? I would like to hear what your explanation for events would be as you see it. Thanks. It would help other readers and I to interpret the goings on of the world. In advance I thank you for assisting this stressed person.

Should governmental representatives be held to a standard of not committing perjury in conduct of ...

racocn8 comments on Mar 24, 2020:

Far more than that, we need to hold those with power to a higher standard, not a lower one. That is a critical and basic principle that needs to be universally applied. However, this would require a dramatic and drastic shift in cultural values. It would be really hard, but we can take heart ...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

@racocn8 I disagree with this approach. "Wealth stripped away". Power definately needs to be lessened, but stripping away wealth is problematic and anti-American.

Miracle Or Media Sensationalism?

Flowerwall comments on Mar 23, 2020:

I don't know how God works. I can only appreciate his miracles.

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

@WilliamFleming "Metaphorical miracle", that sounds like a pleasant ring. I don't know that I fully grasp it though. Thank you for sharing.

I thought about posting in the Covid group, but am looking for more input on how people are feeling.

Flowerwall comments on Mar 23, 2020:

I feel very worried. Just read some statistics atheists/ non believers are being more hard hit by area. Please be safe everyone!

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

@Surfpirate There was much discussion. One idea suggested the less religious live in more populated area where disease would be more easily spread. Seems logical to me but could warrant further questions. Also it is somewhat of a question that noone has talked about the possibility of a rogue scientist. Has law enforcement spoken at all? I know in Korea there was a story about a church group. Not real familiar.

I thought about posting in the Covid group, but am looking for more input on how people are feeling.

Flowerwall comments on Mar 23, 2020:

I feel very worried. Just read some statistics atheists/ non believers are being more hard hit by area. Please be safe everyone!

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

@Surfpirate "70% of US COVID-19 Cases, Deaths in the 25 Least Religious States I was just curious, so I did a little work up of the 25 most religious states and the 25 least religious states to see which had the most COVID-19 cases and deaths, and which had the least. List of U.S. states and territories by religiosity - Wikipedia. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_U.S._states_and_territories_by_religiosity Religiosity was determined from a Gallup Poll asking "Is religion important in your daily life?" State size and population didn't always matter. For example, Illinois, New Jersey, and North Carolina were among the upper half of religious states; Vermont, Delaware, Wyoming were in the least religious half. Here were the results: Pretty much a 70-30 split in both categories. 25 Least Religious States: 8040 cases, 69.9%: 119 deaths 69.6% 25 Most Religious States: 3476 cases, 30.1%: 52 deaths, 30.4%"

How do we enforce ethics and expected competence from our highest elected officials?

Varn comments on Mar 23, 2020:

Demand censure, a recall, impeach & remove… Hopefully, you live in a land of divided government, where independently functioning elected or appointed officials have the capability and sense to remove a defective leader. I don’t :-( Worst case, and your democracy is still functioning … run...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

@Varn Part of what I wrote in the first response was incorrect. I thought censure meant removal. I am seeing it defined as "an expression an disapproval, harsh criticism ". Yes censure is the response. I am not familiar enough with the difference between a parliamentary system and ours, the shortcomings of each, the benefits, the exact workings of each. But if there is no ability to express censure, how would the nation ever protect itself in the event it elected a psychopath who once in office became fixated on national destruction? The President would give the appearance of solving problems but was in reality strategically causing problems and then blaming it on political opponents. What about an elected official who due to huge lapses of competency tore up and destroyed fundamental aspects of American life? What would be done? Would those around him just sit near and allow it to happen? At what point would it be ENOUGH and action would be taken against him/her? The President does feel like the head of a monarchy in some respects. I mentioned the removal of the pandemic team and just posted about removal of an epidemiologist in China who was tasked with being a liaison between the two countries. Why a monarchy? It feels like an issue of personal preference. Are entire government offices and important positions of national epidemiological liaison like sand castles to be built up and then removed at individual whim? Such an important part of our response to this crisis had been destroyed beforehand. I also read personal commentary of massive cut of the main CDC office prior to the crisis. Were the cuts in benefit of the nation? If you cut and slash agencies/positions beforehand then when the crisis hits you do not engage your biodefense what can we say about the decision making? Okay so no activation of biodefense. So now we have a crisis that is in existence. Unknown disease of unknown origin is spreading in a foreign nation. We have American citizens there, the possibility exists that this disease can be brought home. NOW WHAT? Swift response (oops) Travel restrictions (late) Testing (oops). Follow up and contact tracing (oops) Orders to limit human interaction (late) Silenly the disease spreads. There is even talk of attempting to resume business operations without adequate testing availability! It will surely not have a good outcome from disease management perspective! I do understand that the economy like the show, must go on, but it doesn't sound like public health has weighed in here much at all.

"A US epidemiologist was embedded with the Chinese CDC.

patchoullijulie comments on Mar 24, 2020:

He is the disease! Thanks, I feel better now.

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

We have two instances of disease prevention services being eliminated. What other defense related cuts were made under Trump? I know we are seeing military coming out NOW, 2 1/2 months on, to the national stage, but it seems like he forgot that response was there all along "Oh look the Navy" It feels reassuring. We have an image that looks like a picture of response, but the details that are so easy to miss because they are not large Navy ships afloat on the ocean are still existing and have existed the entire time. I saw an article today of people who could NOT get tested for covid. It was NOT RIGHT. NOT RIGHT. NOT RIGHT. An 80 year old woman. A 1 year old baby. A cancer patient. Critical young man. Prisoners getting tested, law abiding citizens, pushed aside - not enough. It is how we do business. But why do we hear "not your shipping clerk" Why do we get an almost feel of obstruction in the process?

Should governmental representatives be held to a standard of not committing perjury in conduct of ...

racocn8 comments on Mar 24, 2020:

Far more than that, we need to hold those with power to a higher standard, not a lower one. That is a critical and basic principle that needs to be universally applied. However, this would require a dramatic and drastic shift in cultural values. It would be really hard, but we can take heart ...

Flowerwall replies on Mar 24, 2020:

How would we enforce it? If we have documented proof of one thing being said this day, complete opposite another day. This is the problem.

I thought about posting in the Covid group, but am looking for more input on how people are feeling.

Flowerwall comments on Mar 23, 2020:

I feel very worried. Just read some statistics atheists/ non believers are being more hard hit by area. Please be safe everyone!