Here is the featured picture of a microscopic view of the Coronavirus.
Coronavirus or COVID-19 in reports and the news has taken some interesting new turns, lately. This author has attended some online seminars in an effort to understand some of the complexities of the situation. The point of this article is to provide a realistic view of what is happening, globally.
CORONAVIRUS TAKES A NEW TURN
Recently, President Donald Trump with a cadre of business, government, and medical experts is trying to manage an incredibly complex situation. But, for many involved know the COVID-19 outbreak is terribly hard to understand.
Utilizing models of logic, leaders from government, industry, and medicine are trying to handle the declared pandemic. This virus has traveled the world in just weeks. But, it doesn’t mean handling COVID-19 is impossible.
HOW DID IT START?
The Coronavirus originated in Wuhan, China. No longer is it important how it started; it is important on what to do about it. The Chinese government was slow in admitting the outbreak. And, there were attempts to cover it up. Remember, we in the United States place a very high value on protecting its citizens. Other country leaders (and customs) do not view the value of life the same way.
With the models presented of recent events recorded in a number of countries; two countries mentioned previously at Universal Digest’s last article are important to view. They are South Korea and Italy. Although, two contrasting actions were taken to combat the virus, it still hasn’t helped in knowing what to do with the economic considerations.
The world has become an interdependent economic colossus with the United States being the leader with China being the second largest economy. As of today, the global economic boom has been all but wiped out. What can be done to protect our economic future? That is the question on everyone’s mind.
A VIRAL OUTBREAK HISTORY
A good friend submitted an excellent ‘heads up’ on the historical aspect of viral pandemics on earth. Courtesy of Visual Capitalist, they posted an excellent article detailing the history of pandemics. In the past, the death toll from the Black Plague to the present Coronavirus outbreak are detailed.
Courtesy of Visual Capitalist is this report of the historical death tolls from the Black Death (Bubonic Plague) to other viral outbreaks to date.
The present COVID-19 outbreak (so far) is minor in comparison. In fact, the death toll is only .7%. Yes, it is less than 1% of the cases reported, which is fairly in line with the death rate from other viruses, including influenza. But, that doesn’t mean it is no less important. We here in the United States value the sanctity of life above material belongings.
SO? WHAT DO WE DO NOW?
What we do now is the big question. This is uncharted territory. Right now, the future of our global economy is at stake. With the impending danger that millions could die from the virus, there are some very good signs that they won’t. Some people do not agree; however, in Wuhan, China, no new cases have occurred, to date.
Here is a microscopic view of the coronavirus, as it appears under a microscope.
Let us hope this news remains a constant. But, again, we just don’t know, yet. So, where do we go from here? Leaders in the United States have decided, thus far, to implement ‘social distancing’. However, the blow to independent businesses is beyond brutal.
PRESENT SITUATION
Rest assured, the infections from Coronavirus in the United States is beginning to rise, dramatically. The efforts to keep the outbreak to not overrun the existing healthcare system is working. But, it is still unknown how fast the present uptick in viral cases will occur. If it does exceed the ability for healthcare to cope, all bets could be off.
As mentioned earlier, this author has attended seminars on critical thinking and how to view our present situation in a positive, yet objective matter. It is more complicated than many know. Personally, I have faith in the human condition and am praying for our leaders to make the right decisions.
Along with some of the societal irregularities and negatives, there are also some incredibly positive acts of generosity and kindness occurring, as well.
CORONAVIRUS OR NOT, WE ARE PULLING TOGETHER
So, that being said about the present coronavirus threat, let us all pull together. Have confidence in our leaders to make the right decisions. Also, if anyone has a better idea of how things should be done, participate!
The next few weeks are going to tell the tale, so to speak.
As the old adage dictates, ‘You can be part of the solution or be part of the problem.’
What decision will you make?
UNIVERSAL DIGEST is pleased to be a conduit for our contributing authors. We do not claim credit; we simply want to make it more available to the general public. And, the opinions of the authors are not necessarily the opinion or stance of this website.
World Ag Expo 50th Anniversary at the Heritage Complex grounds covered over two million acres! The 2017 event was the best ever accomplished.
What a day to visit the 50th annual Tulare County World Ag Expo! The central valley of California has experienced one of the wettest rain seasons in known history. The timing could not have been better to arrive at the grounds on a misty, crisp morning early on Wednesday, February 15th. Not only was it beneficial for parking close to a main gate, it had dried out to where we were not immersed in people and mud. The snow-capped Sierra mountains were barely visible upon arrival, yet, by mid-afternoon they were clearly visible, which will be seen at article’s end.
So, the day begins. As an antecedent, we arrived one week early, by accident, as mentioned on the previous article. Upon an oops arrival, it was decided to enjoy the ambiance and rich history of this incredible breadbasket of the world the International Agri-Center has provided for the public to enjoy for only donations. Of course, the annual World Ag Expo did require a paltry entry admission, which was gladly forked over. What many people do not realize is much of the funds gathered by the facility goes right back into the county for schools and community services.
World Ag Expo Banner 2017
Since arriving early to the event, we stood in line for a while, awaiting entry onto the grounds. It was a great time to interact and commiserate with not only attendees, but with some exhibitors, as well. The Expo staff actually approached us with stamps for our forehands indicating our paid status, in case we needed to leave, temporarily before returning to the grounds. Since it was a bit cool, some staff members were offering coffee and hot chocolate drinks for us to enjoy, at no charge. What a deal! Everyone was quite jovial and we met some nice and interesting people. Security was in existence, yet, I was rather amazed at how well they kept a low-profile and quiet demeanor.
The World Ag Expo began in 1968.
With the following images, please click on any one of them to start a clickable gallery of pictures:
Marketing balloons everywhere
Marketing balloons in tethered flight
Star Wars here? Safely tucked away
Open parking lot in misty, early morning
A welcome police and security presence
Awaiting entry to the Ag Expo
First view upon grounds entry
Museum displays outside
An international display of flags
US Flag Display
Chose to walk to left upon entry
Parking lot filling up
Once we entered the gates, the extravaganza began! Which way to go, which way to go, was the first thoughts on mind. Left was chosen in anticipation of not being left out (pun intended). What a spectacle to behold as we all walked in amazement at the displays, exhibits, pavilions, and buildings amassed in the sprawling grounds. As the morning grew into midday, we were all blessed with the incredibly great weather break from recent storms and rainfall (no complaints and disdain for those who do). Are we out of a drought, could be, yet no one in the central valley should ever be upset with moisture from rainfall or water flow.
Well, there is some valid complaints I can think of during any harvest. There are raisins drying in the sun, cotton ready for ginning at the wrong time…oh my, I could open a number of situations from here on…not to worry, I caught myself in the nick of time from getting too far off topic…however, all above issues can be relevant to the best farmers, ranchers, and dairymen this valley has ever known. I must say this again, for the record. The world is blessed beyond belief, at the hard work, multi-generational, and diligent realization of what agriculture means to everyone living here and in the world. These gifted individuals know this and so should everyone else. Because of what they know, learn, and teach, we are all better off, as they apply all resources to grow more with less every year. We. too, should be examples of how not only to conserve, but to apply our residential wiles to conservation and recycling efforts, where applicable.
There, I just got off my stump for recognition and conservation. I am blessed with those who, as mentors, enabled me to understand, especially in community and regional activities to give back where I can.
Please click on any of the images below to start a clickable gallery where you can exit at any time to return to the article. These are some of the sites seen and enjoyed. Thank goodness for the trams offered to see the grounds…the most ever:
Ag Expo grounds view
Ag Expo grounds view
Ag Expo grounds view
Ag Expo Toyota crane view
Ag Expo grounds view
Ag Expo balloon view
Outside International Business Center with sign and one sad individual…just kidding
Ag Expo grounds view
International Business Center Welcome!
Fair Food, of course!
Souvenirs, or else!
Balloons galore!
More balloons!
More balloons and banners
Ag Expo grounds view-Heritage Complex
Ag Expo grounds view
Ag Expo grounds view
Sierra mountains in distance
Next on the voyage, I first stopped by the Toyota booth where they were raffling a new vehicle for $5 per ticket. I didn’t win, but it was for a great cause; Valley Children’s Hospital. I met more friends and acquaintances over the many years of life in Tulare County. At the International Business Center (shown above) I saw Ryan Purkiss, who is the Present Rotary president for the Visalia Sunset club. The reception for Ag Expo attendees was very well done. I was able to visit with other Rotary friends who were busy attending to the crowds. Ryan said all five Visalia Rotary clubs and both Tulare clubs had combined resources together to provide the amenities for everyone to enjoy. It was a pleasant respite from the crowds to enjoy the food and drinks there. Then I saw another friend of many years, Dr. Larry Stoneburner. He has been a mainstay in multi-county community service for as long as I can remember:
Toyota display and raffle center
Toyota test drive course
Toyota truck raffle for Valley Children’s Hospital
International Business Center Welcome!
Dr. Larry Stoneburner – Owner KTIP 1450 AM Radio and Ed
Larry Stoneburner and Ed
Then, I was on the hunt to say hello to Ray Appleton of KMJ 580 AM Radio, known as KMJNOW. I first visited the Heritage Complex media center because I had failed to listen closely enough when Ray said from where he would be broadcasting during the three-day event. The management and staff were most accommodating and pointed to the Case Exhibit not too far away. I mention this because I wanted to give kudos to all who participated in this fantastic 50th anniversary event! The staff members commented how fortunate they were that KMJ and Ray Appleton were participating, as they have done for years.
Since I lived in the Las Angeles area, I started travelling on business in the central California valley. This was where I first listened to KMJ radio. They are known as Radio City (Fresno, CA). Also known as the blow-torch of the valley, it broadcasts over 50,000 Watts of power. It can be heard from the western coastal areas to as far south as the Grapevine heading south over the mountains to southern California. It is also heard as far east as the Sierra mountain chain to as far north approaching Sacramento. By the way, KMJ streams worldwide so do listen when you can.
Finally, we made our way to where Ray was broadcasting from his booth at the Case Exhibit. On a personal note, I wanted to state, for the record a little bit about Ray Appleton, from my experiences. For many years past, when I was reaching out to the community in association with area education, the Visalia Chamber of Commerce, and two Rotary Clubs, Visalia Sunset and then Woodlake, I would sometimes see Ray. He is a huge believer in community welfare activities, whether it ranges from business to one of his favorite organizations, the SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). Over the years, his passion for politics has found him in contact with past presidents of the United States, including President Trump, where he just returned from the 115th Congressional State of the Union address. He also provides a venue for any and all political entities who care to share with the public with local, state, and federal actions and activities. His candor for being honest, to the point, yet quite humanistic to everyone with whom he has contact is well-known for the last thirty years. Obviously, I have a keen respect for Ray and I am glad to just have the contact I have over the years, inclusive of periodic call ins to the radio station to chat on various subjects. To note, 2017 begins his 30th year of broadcasting. The management and staff of KMJ 580 AM Radio are honoring Ray with the 30th Anniversary Bash to be held at the Fresno Fairground on May 20th, beginning at 2 pm. There will be many festivities to enjoy. I certainly plan to attend!
KMJ at CASE Exhibit
Ray Appleton Broadcast
Waiting for break
Ed and Ray Chatting
Liz, Ed, Ray Photo-op
Liz, Ed, Ray Photo-op
To end this segment, it was great to see Ray during one of his brief breaks at the bottom of the hour. When I had arrived, almost no one was hanging around, yet, by the time Ray generously took a few moments to chat, some important-looking people were showing up. From experience, I knew this would become part of his show so after the above photo-op, I knew it was time to go. Was I ever so right, as I was listening in some major issues had arisen where, as usual, he was taking the ‘bull by the horns’. Although brief, this was a memorable visit.
As the day moved along, the plethora of tractor-driven coaches were an absolute blessing. There were so many of them some actually had to stop and wait for the one in front. It was such an easy start and stop operation, we were able to see all of what we chose to see. As the afternoon waned into later day, the crowds were still growing! The air was filled with sounds of people speaking in many different languages and the smells of different cuisines wafted and seemed to follow as I walked along the various ‘roads’ in the two-million acre layout.
In closing, I want to leave everyone concerned, the Heritage Complex management and staff, exhibitors, broadcasters, concessionaires, maintenance, and just plain, nice visitors a huge, heart-felt thank you. This was a most unforgettable event so fitting for the 50th Annual World Ag Expo, hosted by the International Agri-Center and Heritage Complex.
As promised at the beginning of the article, here are some pictures during exit:
It is time for the 50th annual WORLD AG EXPO for 2017!
World Ag Expo Display
Hundreds of thousands of individuals and families arrive to experience the 3-day event from all around the world each year. Since 1968 the county of Tulare, nestled in the heart of the breadbasket of the United States, and the world, has hosted this event.
The exposition is spread over two million acres of land, just off Laspina Street east of Tulare city proper. Here are some snapshots of the preparation process. Please click on any picture below to start a clickable slide show:
World Expo Flyer
Exposition grounds preparations
Expo grounds preparations
Expo entrance preparations
Heritage Center grounds area
International Agri-Center
Well, here is a little nugget for all to enjoy. Although, when I was more active in the area community, I had visited the Heritage Center, as well as, the previous World Ag Expos. With some errant information received, we arrived at the center a week early! This, I now consider a boon for the public and me, because I had not seen the updated AgVenture Learning Center and Museum for years. I was totally surprised at the professional displays donated (some recently) by area farms, farmers, and notable families who have been so generous.
Please remember, as I mentioned before, these farm and ranch families have been dedicated to providing quality staples to the world. They are venerated in many of the museum displays seen below. Also, please understand, these families have been instrumental in supplying much of the people of planet earth with the best and freshest of food and clothing known to man. Yes, it happens, right here, every day. The cotton farming alone is known for the best quality grown in the entire world.
Another most important thing to know is we residents, government officials, and staff members in this locale, understand and know how important these activities are for our survival now, and in the future.
The following photos can be viewed in a slide show, clickable gallery above and below with one click of a picture:
Heritage Complex
AgVentures! Learning Center & Museum
AgVentures!
Heritage Complex Museum Display
Heritage Complex Museum Display
Clothing to food…
Heritage Complex Museum Display
Heritage Complex Museum Display
Museum donated artifacts
Heritage Complex Museum Display
Heritage Complex Museum Display
Heritage Complex Museum Display
Heritage Complex Museum Display
There is so much more to come in a future article…after I get it right and arrive on time and on the right day for this awesome event. Chuckle and a slight guffaw is in order. What a wonderful place it is in which we live. I cannot say enough how much I love this part of the state and its people. Notwithstanding, I get the best produce from strawberries, plums, fruits, vegetables, milk, and beef right here in the central California valley.
To all farmers and ranchers, some of whom I know, you are so appreciated.
Stars and Stripes Display standard outside complex
