By Randy Johnson, Mayor of Scotts Valley
It unfolded in slow motion. First stories from the Far East about some virus making the rounds and people falling ill. Not to worry. Then a couple of months later, like a sledge hammer, it hit with amazing force and peoples’ worlds came crashing down.
The shock and even a little panic set in and we were left wondering about our immediate and long-term future. Things have settled down a bit. With each passing week, we absorb new data.
A lot of it is disturbing, but some is reassuring. And as we place some of our fears in the back seat, we adapt and develop coping regimens to soothe our minds and face our uncertain future.
If you sit at a traffic light at Granite Creek or Bean Creek, you know something isn’t right. Driving up Glenwood, you regard the high school and empty parking lots and it feels aberrant, because it is. Every city has a certain rhythm and cadence and ours is definitely off. The “closed” signs on businesses, the absence of school kids on the sidewalks and solemnity on people’s faces make it all a bit unnerving. Makes us wonder if an almost dystopian future awaits us. But let’s pause for a minute.
Randy Johnson
Below the surface there is much good happening. We can’t ignore the death that the Covid-19 virus has caused, but we can acknowledge the many acts of kindness and courage and generosity that have emerged from this hardship.
All levels of government are involved and engaged in trying to soothe this misfortune. The federal government approved a stimulus package for both business and individuals. If you are a small business, the Scotts Valley Chamber has advice and roadmaps for you to access funds for your company.
This past week, all the mayors in the county listened to Mimi Hall, our county health director, and Sheriff Hart on where we were and how plans are in place to deal with contingencies that may emerge in the future.
The city council approved a temporary moratorium on commercial and residential evictions for non-payment of rent when COVID-19 is the cause of the financial hardship. See ScottsValley.org for more information. Most importantly, neighbors are helping neighbors and that is so gratifying to hear. (www.santacruzhealth.org/coronavirus is a great resource for staying informed about what is happening in the county)
Mind, body, spirit: they are all important. Are you tracking the statistics of the disease worldwide and here in the United States? Okay, that’s understandable. Does the back-and–forth between the warring (political) parties on the subject deserve an occasional look?
Perhaps, but don’t ignore the psychological and healthy benefits of things like exercise, humor and even meditation, all of which have been proven to lift you up mentally and enhance your immunity.
Yes, your immunity.
Binge watching? It’s a guilty pleasure, so do it. I’m on episode 4 of Game of Thrones. (White Walkers, you hate them, right?) Out of nowhere, John Krasinski (The Office) premiered a program called SGN, which stands for Some Good News. Check it out.
I believe the next 30 days will be challenging, as the shelter-in-place rules will weigh heavily on all of us. You should, however, feel proud on how you have handled this affliction. You have followed the rules for the greater good.
You have adapted and managed your lives with little complaint. You have been calm and resilient and steadfast in believing that better times lie ahead. I share that view and wish you Godspeed on the next phase of this journey. Be well.