Taking My Own Advice

Last week’s cover story, “Take A Seat, Urge Local Restaurants,” was a reminder that local restaurants are open for outside dining and are eager to have their tables filled by diners. I responded by eagerly placing a reservation for Sunday night at one of my favorite spots, Alissa’s Ocean View Bar & Grill. Thankfully there was no problem in getting a reservation because I a) called way in advance and b) it was the Super Bowl. I had a chance to sit down with owner Alissa Hwang, who was so happy to serve her delicious food to hungry customers, and explore some exciting ideas for local dining. But more on that on a later date.

The friend who joined me for dinner (not Amy, who you have often read about) recently recovered from COVID-19. She and her husband, who also had it, were extremely careful about where they went and who they saw. Consequently, they had no idea where or when they were exposed to the virus. She ended up having flu-like symptoms – and not the worst flu she ever had. But what was shocking for me to hear was that she thought that if she got COVID-19 death was imminent.

She is (barely) over 60 and has diabetes. A former neighbor of hers was a little younger and also had diabetes. He contracted COVID-19 and ended up dying. Consequently, when she got it she thought it was a death sentence. This is despite the number of deaths from COVID-19 hovering around 1.5%-1.6% of the number of diagnosed cases. To me it just illustrates the importance of using preventive measures (i.e. wearing a mask, washing hands often, etc.) though I am quick to point out that I do eat out and travel to Cambria when allowed. I must also point out that I do not have any underlying conditions and am pretty darn healthy. Consequently, I do not have the fear factor that some of my friends and family do.

Ultimately, I try to be mindful of the concerns of others and do my best to accommodate them. I will also, embarrassingly, admit that I am not always successful; I have gotten surly when admonished for not following to the letter someone else’s rules. Thankfully that surliness has been directed at family members and they are forgiving.

I do believe that we have turned a corner, especially with the administration of vaccines, though discontinuing virtual meetings doesn’t seem to be happening anytime soon.

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In addition to the postponement of in-person meetings, it looks like Prom Plus will be cancelled again this year. At a recent virtual meeting held last week with the new PP president Joy McCreary, new PP treasurer Rachelle Miller and key supporters, we batted back and forth the idea of whether or not an in-person Prom Plus event will be held. Though we would like to be optimistic, the fact is we don’t think it will be possible.

However, a positive from the meeting was the announcement that I will be receiving a Community Service Award from the Crescenta Valley High School PTSA for my years of service with Prom Plus. Holy cow!

The presentation of awards will be held virtually (of course) on Feb. 22 at 7 p.m. Info on how to access will be included in the Feb. 18 issue of the CV Weekly.

I hope you join the CVHS PTSA in honoring those in the community for their contributions.