|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
After an initial setback, Santa Clara County received the go-ahead from the state on Monday night for its plan to reopen the economy and allow hair salons and gyms to resume operations on July 13.
The variance attestation, which the state Department of Public Health posted on its website July 6, is a requirement for counties that want to reopen their economies more quickly than allowed under the state’s shelter-in-place order. The variance will allow the county to move ahead with the health order that county Health Officer Dr. Sara Cody issued on Thursday, allowing hair salons, gyms and other businesses to reopen on July 13.
The July 2 order also includes a set of rules that all businesses must follow during the pandemic. These include allowing telework when possible, shifting operations outdoors and imposing density restrictions, with no more than one employee per 250 square feet of gross floor area.
The approval followed a weekend of confusion and disappointment, with the state informing the county on July 4 that it had not met all the “metrics” for readiness, a necessary prerequisite for receiving the state clearance. As such, the county’s attestation was deemed incomplete and was not posted on the state Department of Public Health’s website.
That changed on Monday night, however. According to the state department, the county submitted a complete attestation to the application and the attestation was posted on the site late in the day.
The state’s earlier denial seemed to have caught just about all local and county officials by surprise, given that it was the first instance since the shutdown took effect on March 17 in which the state explicitly rejected an order from the county’s health officer. While county officials acknowledged last week that the order would require approval from the state, they expressed optimism that the approval would be forthcoming.
{more_stories }
Cody said at a Tuesday news briefing that the county has worked “closely with the California Department of Public Health over the weekend to make sure we met the metrics and met the criteria, and ultimately we were approved.”
The state’s approval of the attestation also creates some clarity for restaurant owners, in Palo Alto, Mountain View and elsewhere, who have been expanding outdoor dining by setting up tables in newly built parklets and recently closed thoroughfares. As part of its “Summer Streets” program, Palo Alto has recently closed California and University avenues to traffic to promote outdoor dining. Mountain View’s “Summer StrEats” program has taken over several blocks of Castro Street.
While serving meals outside was consistent with the county’s June 5 order, which allows such an activity, it clashed with the state’s shelter-in-place order, which does not. Because the county had not received a state variance before Monday night, it was not technically allowed to move ahead with indoor or outdoor dining, according to state officials.
County leaders had argued that because the state had not explicitly banned outdoor dining, and because other parts of the state have been allowing outdoor dining without seeking variances, they had assumed such a variance was not needed.
The issue didn’t surface until last weekend, when agents from the state Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control visited several businesses in Gilroy and Morgan Hill to tell them that outdoor dining is not allowed, according to a report from The Mercury News. On Monday, Santa Clara County Deputy County Executive David Campos said that the direction from the state on outdoor dining created confusion for some businesses.
“What we want them to know is, as far as the County of Santa Clara is concerned, we believe that outdoor dining is allowed under our order and that is consistent with the state order,” Campos said Monday, before the state officially approved the county’s attestation.
On Tuesday, with the state’s approval at hand, Campos said the county is “grateful to the governor and the state for working with us and getting us to this point.”
Cody also confirmed Tuesday that the state’s approval on Monday night allows the outdoor-dining programs to remain in effect.
“If we want to continue outdoor dining, with this variance we can continue to allow outdoor dining as well as some other sectors and activities,” Cody said. “We can enable them to come online.”
The new order, which is now set to take effect on July 13, as originally scheduled, represents a shift toward “risk-reduction thinking,” Cody said. Rather than focusing on specific business sectors, the order provides a set of universal rules and principles for all businesses to follow. These include shifting operations to outdoor space, requiring physical distancing and limiting the duration of contacts between people.
The order underscores the existing requirement for always wearing a face covering when indoors in a place of business. And it prohibits businesses and activities where adhering to these principles is not feasible, including indoor dining and swimming, concerts and nightclubs.
“We know that this pandemic has been with us for a while. We know this pandemic will be with us for a while longer,” Cody said Tuesday. “And at the end of the day, Mother Nature is in charge and we must adapt.”
County Executive Jeff Smith emphasized that the state’s decision to grant the variance does not mean that the county is doing better in regard to COVID-19. The situation, he said, is in fact getting worse.
“The reason we have applied for the variance is because we realized that the success of dealing with the virus in the long-term depends on individual responsibility, not based on sectors that are open,” Smith said. “Rather than having a focus on which businesses are open and having a focus on asking businesses to enforce distancing, this order focuses on personal responsibility.”
Find comprehensive coverage on the Midpeninsula’s response to the new coronavirus by Palo Alto Online, the Mountain View Voice and the Almanac here.
One perhaps unforeseen problem with closing off Castro Street to facilitate outdoor dining is bicycle traffic. In the space of about two blocks today, I had to dodge five different bike riders. In one case, 3 guys were riding together and chatting back and forth, totally ignoring the pedestrians on the sidewalk. Why can’t the bikes ride down Castro Street? Even with the tables on the streets, there is more room there than on the sidewalks.
It seems like the state and county are just adding to the confusion. Restaurants should use their judgement. Patrons should use theirs. Wear masks when indoors or closer than 6’. Wash your hands. But get back to your life.
Dan: aren’t you one of the ones who claimed that we should open up like Sweden did?
I am grateful this is getting straightened out, and it is happening the correct way.
My only concern is if the SCC continues to spike in infections.
I do not want any more infections and deaths.
I am certain many here agree.
All I ask is everyone BE CAREFUL. I don’t want to hear any stories like due to rise of infections the county is closing down again?
Can everyone agree with this?
If hair and nails salons are being allowed to reopen, why not dental offices as well?
I’ve got alimony and child support payments to make + a reservation/down payment on a 2021 911 Carerra.
Money matters.
Really happy to see this approved; I also know some of my fellow neighbors are concerned about outbreaks, containment, and “why would the State allow this?”
To that end, I’d strongly advise you to search for the Santa Clara County attestation on the State of California COVID-19 website. The variance is a bit lengthy, but Dr. Cody outlines how we meet (and exceed) all the requirements, how we have planned for containment, and we have things well under control. I read it, and felt very confident this was the right move. (Sorry for not posting here, but the site will not allow me to link to it.)
As a point of caution: a lot of the TV news and related channels are carrying summaries by non-medical personnel and have reporters making *a lot* of assumptions. Please, follow the guidance of the public health officer and read the excellent exception application which lays out the case — with data and medical science — as the driver.
Matt here is some education for you for free , the article is titles “What Is R0? Gauging Contagious Infections” (https://www.healthline.com/health/r-nought-reproduction-number#meaning):
“COVID-19 R0
The R0 for COVID-19 is a median of 5.7, according to a study published online in Emerging Infectious Diseases. That’s about double an earlier R0 estimate of 2.2 to 2.7
The 5.7 means that one person with COVID-19 can potentially transmit the coronavirus to 5 to 6 people, rather than the 2 to 3 researchers originally thought.
Researchers calculated the new number based on data from the original outbreak in Wuhan, China. They used parameters like the virus incubation period (4.2 days) — how much time elapsed from when people were exposed to the virus and when they started to show symptoms.
The researchers estimated a doubling time of 2 to 3 days, which is much faster than earlier estimates of 6 to 7 days. The doubling time is how long it takes for the number of coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and deaths to double. The shorter the time, the faster the disease is spreading.
With an R0 of 5.7, at least 82 percent of the population needs to be immune to COVID-19 to stop its transmission through vaccination and herd immunity.
The study authors say active surveillance, tracking the contacts of people who contracted the coronavirus, quarantine, and strong physical distancing measures are needed to stop the coronavirus from being transmitted.”
In order to have control over the COVID you need to have a R0 under 1 as defined here :
“hree possibilities exist for the potential transmission or decline of a disease, depending on its R0 value:
If R0 is less than 1, each existing infection causes less than one new infection. In this case, the disease will decline and eventually die out.
If R0 equals 1, each existing infection causes one new infection. The disease will stay alive and stable, but there won’t be an outbreak or an epidemic.
If R0 is more than 1, each existing infection causes more than one new infection. The disease will be transmitted between people, and there may be an outbreak or epidemic.
Importantly, a disease’s R0 value only applies when everyone in a population is completely vulnerable to the disease. This means:
no one has been vaccinated
no one has had the disease before
there’s no way to control the spread of the disease
This combination of conditions is rare nowadays thanks to advances in medicine. Many diseases that were deadly in the past can now be contained and sometimes cured.”
Please understand if anyone tries to say we have the disease under control, they have to prove the R0 is equal to 1 or less. NO DOCTOR IS EVEN SAYING THAT IS OCCURRING HERE. The fact that infections are not going down is an obvious sign. And most Doctors even Dr. Fauci is saying we are far from getting COVID under control. The latest estimate is that 600,000 Americans will die of it. Which is .2% of all Americans and 410,000 died in World War 2.
PLEASE PEOPLE BE CAREFUL THAT’S ALL I ASK?
It seems that economic concerns are starting to take precedence over health and safety. I shudder to think what the future holds.
This is a good step and a reasonable approach that reflects the reality of the situation. “Shelter in Place” was never a long-term strategy, and there is far too much wishful thinking around here that a vaccine is around the corner. The likelihood that we get a safe and mass produced vaccine any time soon is extremely low, so we have to reckon with the fact we’ll be living with this virus for a long time and can’t stay sheltered forever. It’s good that we’re finally acknowledging that likelihood now and figuring out how best to live with it.
Shelly — that’s a false choice. For many thousands of families in this area, the bad economy *IS* a greater health and safety danger than the virus. 40% of people making less than $40K a year lost their job in the last few months. Families are suffering greatly from poverty, hunger, and everything else that comes from economic despair, and forcing them to lock themselves in their house until there’s a vaccine for everyone is not a viable option.
In response to Gerard Shonk you said:
“This is a good step and a reasonable approach that reflects the reality of the situation. “Shelter in Place” was never a long-term strategy, and there is far too much wishful thinking around here that a vaccine is around the corner. The likelihood that we get a safe and mass produced vaccine any time soon is extremely low, so we have to reckon with the fact we’ll be living with this virus for a long time and can’t stay sheltered forever. It’s good that we’re finally acknowledging that likelihood now and figuring out how best to live with it.”
LIVE WITH IT? YOU MEAN DIE WITH IT. YOU ACCEPT THAT PEOPLE ARE GOING TO GET SICK AND DIE. THAT IS NOT WHAT PUBLIC HEALTH IS SUPPOSED TO BE. I KINDA THINK WE ARE SEEING THE RETURN OF GERMAN NATIONALISM BECAUSE OUR COUNTRY SAYS TO ITS PEOPLE. SO WHAT YOU GET SICK AND DIE, IT IS YOUR DUTY TO PROVIDE OTHERS YOUR SACRIFICE OF YOUR HEALTH. You also said:
“Shelly — that’s a false choice. For many thousands of families in this area, the bad economy *IS* a greater health and safety danger than the virus. 40% of people making less than $40K a year lost their job in the last few months. Families are suffering greatly from poverty, hunger, and everything else that comes from economic despair, and forcing them to lock themselves in their house until there’s a vaccine for everyone is not a viable option.”
YES WHO CARES ABOUT THE LOWER CLASSES, WE NEED THEM TO MAKE OUR LIVES PLEASANT AND TO SERVICE US. AGAIN IT IS THE DUTY OF THE LOWER CLASSSES TO ACCEPT THE RISKS OF DYING FOR THE BETTERMENT OF THE UPPER CLASS. ESPECIALLY IF THE UPPER CLASSES INVESTMENTS ARE THREATENED. JUST BE GOOD SHEEP AND DO AS YOUR TOLD.
This is the mentality of these people. THE UPPER CLASSSES can actually live at home no problem as long as their “investments” are strong. THAT IS WHY THE LOWER CLASSES ARE THEIR SACRIFICIAL SHEEP.
SHEEP, IT IS TIME TO SAY NO. TIME TO DICTATE THAT UNTIL THE COVID IS TRULY UNDER CONTROL REFUSE TO BEHAVE.
The original plan of SIP was in the original PANDEMIC plan, but it looked good on paper and in exercises, but when it came to REALITY, you have people like this who say, WHOA, we can’t act on the plan, we have to pick who lives and who dies for us.
This is the kind of person we are dealing with people.
Quote: It seems that economic concerns are starting to take precedence over health and safety. I shudder to think what the future holds.
^^^ A good point.
Reopening businesses for the sake of stimulating the economy is only advantageous to the wealthy and/or well-endowed professional wage earners.
Yes, let’s put the minimum wage earners back to work to reduce unemployment benefits and stimulus packages as these workers are expendable.
Meanwhile people will get the false impression that everything is back to normal UNTIL people start coming down with Covid-19 in even larger numbers than at present.
So what will happen next? Another county/state mandated shutdown of non-essential services, increased ER traffic, and hospitalizations.
Back to square one.
There’s no need to be as ignorant when it comes to public health as those in Florida, Arizona and any other red-state whose inhabitants are in denial of this pandemic due their personal adherences to evangelic, political oriented delusions.
Stupid is as stupid does.
Mass Reopenings- but we are not doing mass Reopenings. We are doing a slow , measured reopening.
The remember that the SIP was not meant to be permanent. They are to flatten the curve and not overwhelm hospitals.
I am sure no one thought of the economic, mental health, hunge and domestic abuses issues that have risen after 100+ days. Did you read Cody’s comments last week about how we are entering a new phase in dealing with the virus,
In a perfect world we could all remain locked up for the duration.
If yiu want to stay at home , please do.
We have seen Republican officeholders go along with sociopath Donald Trump to advance themselves and their favorite voters and benefactors. Buy maybe we need to take stock of how many in America are sociopathic.
In response to He has it wrong (OR IS IT HE EMBARRASSED HIMSELF AGAIN?) You said:
“Mass Reopenings- but we are not doing mass Reopenings. We are doing a slow , measured reopening.”
Maybe, but since cases are continuing to rise in CA again, please look at the recent Mercury News article found here “Coronavirus: Daily deaths in California reach highest level in a month, case count continues to rise” (https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/07/08/coronavirus-daily-deaths-in-california-reach-highest-level-in-a-month-case-count-continues-to-rise/) Deaths are increasing, and ONLY is people are being CONTAINED in their COUNTIES can this trend be controlled at the COUNTY level. So far there are no road blocks between them. So SCC is not out of the woods. You said:
“The remember that the SIP was not meant to be permanent. They are to flatten the curve and not overwhelm hospitals.”
It was written to be INDEFINITE, so you are not correct. The facts are as the case levels will increase the current status will likely be VERY UNSTABLE. In fact it is likely that if the cases increase enough in the next few days, the County might have to reverse direction. In fact the rise in cases could be argued to be caused by the outdoor dining permitted in June. Of course you don’t want to discuss that at all. You would preferred to try to blame it on something else. BUT this is the only change that occurred since June in Santa Clara County. You said:
“I am sure no one thought of the economic, mental health, hunge and domestic abuses issues that have risen after 100+ days. Did you read Cody’s comments last week about how we are entering a new phase in dealing with the virus,”
Nice to see you again “He Embarrassed Himself Again”. Posting under multiple identities is not allowed here you know? You said:
“In a perfect world we could all remain locked up for the duration.”
WE ARE NOT LOCKED UP. AND THE PLAN WAS NOT BASED ON A PERFECT WORLD, BUT THE PREMISE THAT INFECTIONS ARE TO BE PREVENTED NOT ACCEPTED. YOU JUST WANT TO SEE PEOPLE GET SICK AND DIE AND SAY “SO WHAT”.
> “Mass Reopenings- but we are not doing mass Reopenings. We are doing a slow , measured reopening.”
^ Semantics (and opening title aside), I was referring to the ‘mass’ openings of businesses throughout the state/country via politically-driven interests.
Public health VS re-stimulating the economy is the conflict we are now facing.
And at what cost?
“Nice to see you again “He Embarrassed Himself Again”. Posting under multiple identities is not allowed here you know?”
Maybe in your role as a government worker, you should call for a forensic audit!!!
BTW–different thread- different name–allowed.
” In fact the rise in cases could be argued to be caused by the outdoor dining permitted in June.”
You can argue whatever you want. You will need to provide FACTS. Not suppositions, wet dreams or anything else that has no scientific basis
In response to He has it wrong you said:
“Maybe in your role as a government worker, you should call for a forensic audit!!!
BTW–different thread- different name–allowed.”
I think you misread the rules, it doesn’t matter if you are on a different thread. None the less thanks for confessing you are the same troller You said:
“” In fact the rise in cases could be argued to be caused by the outdoor dining permitted in June.”
You can argue whatever you want. You will need to provide FACTS. Not suppositions, wet dreams or anything else that has no scientific basis”
The scientific basis is this, there was only one change in the Shelter In Place in Santa Clara County and others. If there is only one variable in play, like this, then it is scientifically ASSUMED to be the cause until proven 0therwise.
Also you really know how to use obscene language here don’t you? I will not request this posting to be removed because it proves your pathological and sociopathic mindset..
YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY DISEASE OR DEATH FROM HERE ON.
I only restate my only objective PEOPLE DO NOT TAKE RISKS TO YOUR SAFETY, PLEASE?
DO NOT LET PEOPLE LIKE THIS BULLY YOU INTO POSSIBLY GETTING HURT.
That’s only what this person wants to do to you.
“The scientific basis is this, there was only one change in the Shelter In Place in Santa Clara County and others. If there is only one variable in play, like this, then it is scientifically ASSUMED to be the cause until proven 0therwise. ”
Wrong again, TBM. Check out the June 5th order and look in the section on what is allowed to open on June 5
I count 6 things:
Outdoor dining at restaurants
• In-store shopping at retail and
shopping centers
• All manufacturing, warehousing, and
logistics
• House cleaning and other no-contact
in-home services
• Low contact/no contact service
businesses including shoe repair,
watch repair, and other similar services • Pet grooming and dog walking
https://www.sccgov.org/sites/covid19/Documents/Health-Order-List-of-Open-Businesses-06-05-20.pdf
Now please provide the evidence i.e. tracing, that shows the new cases came from outdoor dining.
Maybe we need a forensic audit to be done
LOL government IT worker, indeed. LOL
In response to He has it wrong you said:
“Wrong again, TBM. Check out the June 5th order and look in the section on what is allowed to open on June 5
I count 6 things:
Outdoor dining at restaurants”
Already counted. This practice is not able to be excluded from consideration because consumption of food requires removal of a mask. Also are gloves required to be a customer to eat at the facility? If not what efforts are done on the sterilization of the outdoor facilities? What documentation is occurring so that the services are being performed, should it be monitored by a camera or a licensed health official? This practice is simply unable to contain viral spreading simply because of food consumption, unless it is done through a straw. it included:
“In-store shopping at retail and shopping centers”
However those required masks and in facility sterilization and gloves. Would that control the spread, unless these were not followed? You included:
“ All manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics” Again if these facilities required masks and in facility sterilization and gloves, Would that control the spread, unless these were not followed. You said:
“House cleaning and other no-contact in-home services”
NO CONTACT, meaning there scientifically is no way it could spread the virus, right? You said:
“ Low contact/no contact service businesses including shoe repair, watch repair, and other similar services”
Again, if masks, sterilization methods and gloves are used, that should prevent spread of the Virus, unless these were not followed? You said:
“ Pet grooming and dog walking”
Again, if masks, sterilization methods and gloves are used, that should prevent spread of the Virus, unless these were not followed? You said:
You like to try to distract people from asking the right questions don’t you? You also said:
“Now please provide the evidence i.e. tracing, that shows the new cases came from outdoor dining.”
SINCE THERE IS NO TRACING AND TESTING OCCURING AT THE RESTURAUNTS, THIS IS BY DESIGN, SO THAT CANNOT OCCUR. THUS YOU CANNOT ASSUME IT IS NOT OCCURING. IN FACT THERE ARE PEOPLE WORKING TO TRY TO LIMIT TESTING BY LIMITING THE REAGENTS NECESSARY. THE REPORTS ARE THAT WE ARE WEEKS BEHIND THE TESTING AND TRACING BECAUSE OF THIS. NICE TRY you said:
“Maybe we need a forensic audit to be done
LOL government IT worker, indeed. LOL”
Again ALL I ASK IS THAT THE PEOPLE OF MOUNTAIN VIEW MAKE UP THEIR OWN MIND AND BE CAREFUL.
And oh by the way “economic” losses are simply ACCEPTABLE. People impacted by Death or Disability is NOT ACCEPTABLE. Economic damage is simply not in the same level, so if the economy is broken so be it. But the health of people are constitutionally protected and economics are not. LIFE is a protected right. Money is not, the pursuit of private property is, but it is not guaranteed.
So to summarize the long winded, inaccurate diatribe from Mr. I-am-a-government-IT-person-and-I-will-initiate-a-forensic-audit., you have no direct evidence that the increase in cases was due to outdoor dining.
Thank you very much.
https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/Financial-devastation-of-coronavirus-pushing-Bay-15375212.php
NOT YET.
But it may come or its already on its way?
You still haven’t proven it IS SAFE either?
So I just again state.
WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU HAVE NO PROOF OF SAFETY OF TAKING A DRINK?
WOULD YOU DRINK IT?
THIS IS THE POSITION WE ARE IN, THE SAFEST THING TO DO IS TO PUT THE DRINK DOWN THE DRAIN.
Please PROVE it is safe to outdoor dine?
“But it may come or its already on its way?”
So to summarize– your previous claims that it was outdoor dining led to the increase in cases was false, not based on any kind of scientific or fact based data.
And I do not have to prove anything. And why are you yelling, like a frustrated person who is soon to be forensically audited
In response to He Got It Wrong you should consider:
By the way, SOCAL cases are being moved here for treatment.
This information is not being reported by the SCC dashboard, thus the medical demand is underrepresented.
The news is from the Mercury News titled “Overwhelmed Southern California transferring coronavirus patients to Bay Area hospitals” here (https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/07/05/overwhelmed-southern-california-transferring-coronavirus-patients-to-bay-area-hospitals/)
Specifically Stanford Medical Center is taking in cases from outside the area, taxing the current medical care resources. This increase will likely cause a shortage again, and that is likely going to force the SCC to tighten the SIP again.
And we are seeing more record deaths in the state in thew Mercury News article titled “Coronavirus: Daily deaths in California reach highest level in a month, case count continues to rise” found here (https://www.mercurynews.com/2020/07/08/coronavirus-daily-deaths-in-california-reach-highest-level-in-a-month-case-count-continues-to-rise/)
WE ARE STILL IN A CRITICAL MEDICAL EMERGENCY NO MATTER WHO SAYS WHAT.
Since the website doesn’t have Bold face, Underline or Italics, you cannot assume ALL CAPS are yelling, it is a false conclusion. Yes it is now considered yelling but it is not correct if you read the article (https://newrepublic.com/article/117390/netiquette-capitalization-how-caps-became-code-yelling)
In fact only when both BOLD FACE and ALL CAPS are combined does it actually mean yelling.
We now have more than 132,000 people dead, ! person lost under these condition is not acceptable. More than 100 people died every day in the last week. That is 100 families and communities lost one of their own. Do you personally think this is an acceptable way of life?
IT IS NOT TIME TO TAKE UNNECESSARY RISKS MOUNTAIN VIEW, AND OUTDOOR DINING IS A ADDITIONAL RISK. THUS IT IS UNWISE TO DO IT.
Can you prove otherwise?
“ IT IS NOT TIME TO TAKE UNNECESSARY RISKS MOUNTAIN VIEW, AND OUTDOOR DINING IS A ADDITIONAL RISK. THUS IT IS UNWISE TO DO IT.”
Still yelling. So do not dine outdoors.
I do not need to prove anything.
https://www.cnn.com/2018/07/23/us/all-caps-typography-history-tweets-trnd/index.html
There was press briefing in Los Angeles this morning covered by many entities of the free press and one doctor (I can look up the name) said unequivocally the surge in CA is due to abandoning all safety measures put in place, by citizens having large gatherings, subset of people who think they can’t contract the virus, no masks and personal SIP anxiety. I can understand the last one. But if we can’t neutralize this virus ND4this is our new normal unless a vaccine is found. I do understand that low income groups have a much tougher situation and need to work. That is why I’m paying everyone who works for me at home, still gets paid. I don’t endanger others as humanly possible. Please help CA by abiding by the guidelines: social distancing, wear masks, wash hands and SIP if you can. It’s very tough and depressing.
the coronavirus pandemic is forcing Americans to adopt a new lifestyle and therein lies the problem as all red-blooded, patriotic citizens value the inherent freedoms that our forefathers fought and bled for.
the current pandemic did not originate in the United States but we are now being forced to contain it’s spread by due diligence and an ongoing commitment to ensuring the public health of all U.S. citizens (including non-citizens).
common sense should be our compass because the various politicians (including the POTUS) cannot be trusted to serve the best interests of the American citizenry.
practicing self-restraint (i.e.
a personal adherence to safe distancing and the wearing of facemasks) is not only highly recommended but warranted to contain the virus.
leave the non-essential outlets and activities to the ignorant MAGA proponents and red-state mentalities who seemingly act and think that they are going to live forever in lieu of taking any safety precautions towards containing the covid-19 pandemic.
chances are that as covid-29 infection & hospitalization numbers continue to rise, SIP mandates will be reinstated much to the dismay of those either too blind (or too stupid) to comprehend the ramifications
of opening businesses too early and/or gathering in large crowds
or groups.
Republicans, evangelicals and assorted rednecks would like everyone to believe that the coronavirus has been contained but they are sadly mistaken.
Then again, the majority of them also seem to be asserting that racism does not exist in America and that 99% of all cops are good.
Talk about a bunch of ostriches.
Well at least I am not alone here.
I am trying to get the information regarding LA press briefing.
But it is almost self apparent that when we relax SIP you increase infections.
Outdoor dining is the largest “group gathering” vector compared to all others.
I walked downtown today, and as much as 25% of the people were NOT WEARING MASKS.
If that is a requirement, then why is the police not citing them?
If that is a requirement, then the restaurants are going to lose their outdoor dining privileges.
Tomorrow I will use my phone to capture the actions going on. Then I will send them to the ABC, the Santa Clara County Department of Health, and the State Department of Health. If I find just one person not wearing a mask, it should shut it all down.
My fair warning.
Looks like the government IT guy is viewing things from a window.
LOL. So funny. Forensic accounting. Videos. LOL.
“ Outdoor dining is the largest “group gathering” vector compared to all others”
And again making statements that have no scientific facts or proof to back it up.
Here is some new information:
“Coronavirus spreads when an infected person speaks, sneezes, or coughs within 6 feet of others. You may have the virus and spread it even if you feel well. So it’s important to cover your nose and mouth when outside your home.
Wearing a mask or cloth face covering can slow the spread of COVID-19 by limiting the release of virus into the air. It also reinforces physical distancing, and shows you care about the health of others.
Public health officials now require Californians to wear masks or face coverings in most settings outside the home. Read the new rules in English (PDF) or Spanish (PDF).
Also, workers in some industries are required to wear a mask, respirator, or face shield while on the job.
Here are the different kinds of masks and face coverings, and the right way to wear them.
Who needs a mask?
Anyone going outside their home
Who shouldn’t wear a mask?
Children under 2 years old
Anyone with respiratory issues where it would impede their breathing
Anyone unable to remove the mask without help
Anyone with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that does not allow them to wear a mask
See a complete list of who should not wear a mask.
When should you wear a mask?
You should wear a mask or face covering whenever you’ll be around someone you don’t live with, including:
In any indoor public space. When waiting in line. When getting health care. On public transportation or when ride-sharing. At work, when near others or moving through common areas. Outdoors, IF YOU CAN’T STAY 6 FEET AWAY FROM OTHERS”
This means if anyone is closer than 6” and I can video them, they are in violation of this rule.
And if the City refuses to enforce this law then look at this:
“In California, Sacramento County Sheriff Scott Jones said because of the “minor nature of the offense” and the “potential for negative outcomes,” his deputies won’t enforce the state’s mask mandate.
In response, Gov. Gavin Newsom threatened this week to withhold up to $2.5 billion in aid to local police departments that refuse to enforce the mask rule and other pandemic-related mandates.
“If they choose to not do that, we will redirect those dollars to communities that are,” Newsom said, noting that state employees have already stepped up their efforts.
“Over the last few days, we significantly increased enforcement, with close to 6,000 in-person visits to bars and restaurants,” he said.”
So the city better get ready for those funds to be revoked if it doesn’t assign any police officers to monitor Castro Street for not conforming with the order.
LOL. More empty threats.
I do not ever threaten anyone.
I have now 5 photos proving that people are not wearing masks when they are closer than 6 feet.
In order for you to serve people without a mask on you can only seat 2 on a standard picnic table.
I also have some shots of people following the law.
In the next couple of days I will arrange a public photo share that I can link to.
I will also forward these pictures to the SCC Department of Health, the ABC and the Governors office.
And you cannot claim and “family” units when sitting in a public place. There is no exception to the order rules regarding public mask wearing.
The table arrangements need serious revision. No one should be sitting closer than 6 feet unless they are going to wear their masks. The mistake is the restaurants made only the tables 6 feet spaced, not the chairs.
So as I collect my photo evidence, it will become clear that NO ONE understands what the laws are and NO ONE is making sure they are complied with in Mountain View.
A recent study in texas indicates that going to a gym is a high risk for COVID
THe research is found here from KSAT news story “COVID-19 risk chart: Going to bars, gyms, movie theaters puts you at higher risk for infection
Grabbing takeout, camping, exercising outside among low risks”
(https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2020/07/07/covid-19-risk-chart-going-to-bars-gyms-movie-theaters-puts-you-at-higher-risk-for-infection/)
The WHO recently indicated that GYMS are a high risk.
That is is now not just spread by “droplets” in breath but it is in fact “airborn”
THe report can be found here “WHO confirms there’s ’emerging evidence’ of airborne transmission of coronavirus” (https://www.cnn.com/2020/07/08/health/airborne-transmission-of-coronavirus-who/index.html
I will survive for hours in the air, and then it can be collected in breath or on exposed skin for later.
I think that SCC must reconsider the Gyms at the least. And anyone in public spaces must be informed of this risk.
Just FYI
Quote: “Going to bars, gyms, movie theaters puts you at higher risk for infection.”
Add school, public libraries, sporting events and public gatherings in general.
We must do everything in our power to contain the spread of Covid-19.
Only the truly stupid will beg to differ and there are many.
We (6-8) are in a large office (essential) where we socially distance (no handshakes, wiping surfaces, no sharing, etc.) and have been working throughout the pandemic without anyone falling ill. If we socially distance are masks required at all times?
In response to Robyn:
Under SDP it states I think:
“As long as you are more than 6 feet apart you are fine without masks.”
BUT if your closer than that facial coverings or masks are required to be worn.
The problem we have is that many are not following that rule. I suspect you are and your team are doing your part.
But I have 7 pictures proving that downtown. that is not happening. In fact the restaurants are permitting people to be too close for the covering standards. The are using the standard tables that provide only about 5 feet separation between people across the table, and those sitting alongside are right next to each other.
Even if the County was given the permissions to have “outdoor dining” it cannot do so in noncompliance with this executive order.
Thus we must redesign the layout on Castro Street, or face a shutdown again.
Tables are placed at least 6 feet apart. Since only people from the same household can sit together at the same table, they are not required to sit 6 feet apart.
In response to Seating is okay you said:
“Tables are placed at least 6 feet apart.”
THAT IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH AND YOU KNOW IT. You went on to say:
“Since only people from the same household can sit together at the same table, they are not required to sit 6 feet apart.”
YES, except where are the records to PROVE that these individuals are in the same household. The official statements are:
“While outdoors in public spaces when maintaining a physical distance of 6 feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence is not feasible.” From the California Department of Public Health found here (https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/CDPH%20Document%20Library/COVID-19/Guidance-for-Face-Coverings_06-18-2020.pdf)
Thus every customer must provide proof they are in the same household, sign an affidavit to maintain a record of it, and have this document registered by an official authorized to receive it, before you can take your seat. Without this, it is in violation of the Mask requirements. If the City is not employing anyone to process the record keeping, it did not have the perquisite compliance to enable “outdoor dining” and the same goes for the County. They are violating the California Department of Public Health Guidelines and thus are VIOLATING the MASK order
Remember the phrase “Trust but VERIFY”
Please understand familial outbreaks are the highest risk of infections at this time. One person in the household tends to infect the whole household. THUS we must protect EVERY member of the household.
NO ONE DOES THE PREREQUISITE WORK TO DO THIS CORRECTLY.
The county rules say that tables must be at least 6 feet apart. Those are the county regulations not mine.
Can you provide a link to the county regulations that discuss the affidavit requirement for dining outside. Are you saying each restaurant has to have a county official on site?? Please provide a link to this requirement. Thanks.
So you are just saying WE should just TRUST any stranger?
THAT IS RIDICULOUS AND YOU KNOW IT.
The PUBLIC HEALTH requires us to take PROACTIVE steps, any other action is simply the basis of being a PRO-VIRUS person, you just want the VIRUS to take over us.
Given that the Santa Clara County is experiencing ever increasing infections again, we have to take much more proactive protection. You fear the idea that this situation is getting out of control, and the outdoor dining is a strong contributing factor.
Alameda County is shutting down outdoor dining, and it is very likely that Santa Clara will have to do the same.Please read this article (https://www.berkeleyside.com/2020/07/11/in-a-surprise-reversal-alameda-county-bans-outdoor-dining)
Time to reconsider this action again.
I am not saying anything. I am just asking for links to the claims you are making regarding dining rules, affidavits and county officials. I just want clarification if these are indeed county regulations or if you are making it up.
Regarding alameda county, the story says they plan to ask for a variance on Monday for,outdoor dining, so they are not really shutting outside dining- they learned from the Santa Clara county issue from last weekend.
Seating is okay– let me save you some time– TBM is making up the story about affidavits and having officials register the affidavit. I looked at the SCC guidelines. Tables 6 feet apart, same household allowed to sit together, no paperwork needed.
You can thank me later
Again:
TRUST but VERIFY
I can’t VERIFY, thus I cannot TRUST.
I know people want to get out of their homes, but at the same time you should get enough evidence to PROVE dining at CASTRO ST is PROVEN safe.
Otherwise you are playing RUSSIAN ROULETTE.
I am only wanting people to use their best judgement, given that infections ARE NOT UNDER CONTROL.
No one here is claiming it is in Santa Clara given the current rise in infection rates.
PLEASE BE CAREFUL AND DON’T LET PEOPLE OVERRIDE YOUR BEST JUDGEMENT?
Thank You
And o by the way, all businesses have to sign an agreement to uphold the Social Distancing Protocols as of July 13.
Thus anyone mot able to prove they are in compliance can get that certification revoked and be shut down.
These businesses must post their certification on that date, if they do not, DON’T GO THERE.
Be Careful.
ABOUT TIME:
These businesses have been getting away with making claims that they are protecting the public, but not be accountable for failure to do so.
The new revision includes the following requirements:
“The newest Social Distancing Protocol has new requirements and you must fill out this version even if you previously completed an older version.
What to expect: When you click on the link below, you will be able to fill out a Social Distancing Protocol. The Protocol requires you to enter information that:
IDENTIFIES AND PROVIDES CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE BUSINESS AND THE PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING COMPLIANCE WITH THE PROTOCOL (THIS WILL USUALLY BE AN OWNER OR MANAGER)”
Good so the individual or business is responsible to uphold the SDP it also said:
“CONFIRMS THAT THE BUSINESS IS POSTING PROPER SIGNAGE”
A good specific task that needs to be affirmed in order to keep operating it goes on to say:
“CONFIRMS THAT THE BUSINESS IS PROPERLY TRAINING ITS WORKERS”
Again makes sense to me. It goes on to say:
“CONFIRMS THAT THE BUSINESS IS PUTTING MEASURES IN PLACE TO PROTECT ITS WORKERS AND THE PUBLIC”
GOOD, that means it must take proactive steps, like creating a legal record of the public usage of the business so that if ANY person using them is TESTED positive, the proper TRACING can be performed and all other people in that business during that viable time can be contacted for TESTING. This of course also means that a RECORD of those in any group sitting closer than 6 feet must be properly identified as being in the same household too. These businesses are going to have to act as agents of the Santa Clara Department of Public Health under this requirement. It goes on to say:
“CONFIRMS THAT THE BUSINESS HAS AN ADEQUATE PLAN IN PLACE IF A WORKER TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID-19”
Good, I doubt any of these business have that figured out. It goes on to say:
“CERTIFIES UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY THAT THE INFORMATION SUBMITTED IS TRUE AND ACCURATE TO KNOWLEDGE OF THE PERSON SIGNING THE PROTOCOL”
VERY GOOD THIS HOLDS THOSE SIGNING LEGALLY LIABLE IF THEY FAILED PERFORM THE REQUIREMENTS ABOVE. The definition also stated:
“Certification under penalty of perjury: The Protocol cannot be submitted unless it is signed under penalty of perjury by a person who is authorized by the business. If you are filling out this form, you must ensure that you have been authorized to complete the form and submit it for the business. Once you complete the Protocol at the link below, you will need to sign the Protocol using an electronic DocuSign signature. (You cannot sign using pen and paper.) SUBMITTING THE PROTOCOL UNDER PENALTY OF PERJURY MEANS EVERYTHING ON THE FORM MUST BE TRUTHFUL TO THE BEST OF YOUR KNOWLEDGE, AND INCLUDING INFORMATION YOU KNOW IS FALSE IS A CRIME.
It looks like the County finally got the right approach down. The County WILL hold a business accountable if it fails to provide the performance of the above. Failure to do so will revoke the privilege of being a service provider regarding “outdoor dining”.
If any of these business do not want to follow this SDP then they must shut down “outdoor dining” and return to Delivery and Take Out only
This becomes effective on Monday.
So.
I predicted this kind of situation would arise. Then those scoffed saying I was wrong.
NOW.
Things are now requiring accountability.
They said it was a right to be in business. Restaurant licenses are privileges, just like drivers licenses. They are not allowed to operate unless proper procedures are followed under license laws.
But you forgot to understand this didn’t you?
Please understand, you have a lot of people making assumptions regarding safety, and we CAN’T do that.
i have lived all my life here in the Italy,which i want to share my testimony on how i got cured of herpes.I was diagnosed of herpes,4 years ago which i have used all type of medicine to cure these, but it was all
in vial,until i saw a testimony online on how someone was was cured by a man called Dr Smith ,which i have setting doubt in given these a try until i did,which i explained my sickness to him,and he told me on how he is going to prepare a herbal medicine for me,which he told on that i will not pay any money for these,i decided to do these,which i receive the herbal medicine and took it as prescribe by him,which after 5 days he told me to go for check up in the hospital,which i was cured,so i want to use these medium to let you know how you can get to him in case you are having these same illness or any thing concerning your health or other issues such as lottery, ex back,HIV, and more. you can contact Dr Smith through his email address smithherbalcure@gmail.com or via call +2348102652355