Attendance today was 20 of 26, or 77 percent.
Today was our fourth virtual meeting. Attendance was the best we have had for one of our virtual meetings, and is on-par with our normal, in-person attendance at Norma's. Special thanks to all of those who are learning new technology and making the effort. Somebody, please buy George a tripod for his vertigo-inducing iphone.
We had 20 participants in today's meeting. Those in attendance included: Robert Aasen, Rich Amato, Rob Banes, Richard Biggers, Doug Cargo, Mike Castro, Tim Chappell, Rick Chron, Larry Craghead, Steve Dippel, George Elking, Eric Harter, Pat Hite, Sharon Lewis, Bud McBrayer, Maltee McMahon, Michael Missildine, Neal Norton, Greg Rushin, and Richard Wells. Guests included Brigette Elking.
Our speaker today was David Tilley, with the Plano Police Department. David spoke to the club regarding his experience with Covid19. David was informed of his exposure while traveling to Colorado to attend his son's wedding. He was 90 minutes away from his destination when he received the call alerting him to his exposure. David decided not to attend the wedding and returned home to Garland to shelter in place. Over the course of the next few days, he became symptomatic and developed the ailments that we hear about in the news. Of note, David treated the symptoms as if treating the flu (Nyquil, etc.). David did test positive for the virus and was placed in "Lockdown" by the Garland Health Department. The lockdown lasted 14 days and included his immediate family members as well. After receiving two negative test results, David returned to work with the Plano PD. He became aware of the possibility of donating his plasma to other victims of the virus. David reached out to Carter Blood Care, where he successfully donated plasma. A few take-aways from David's story: 1) Having the virus is not an automatic death sentence, 2) He had prepped for the lockdown ahead of time (supplies, food, etc.), 3) Carter Blood Care needs blood donors, 4) David made the responsible decision in not attending his son's wedding.
Tim Chappell spoke to the club briefly regarding Covid testing. Dr. Chappell emphasized that official recovery from Covid equals two negative test results. Testing protocol is a moving target right now. Currently, those in high risk groups may be tested without a doctor's order. Next week, testing will be expanded to anybody / everybody. Antibody testing will be available beginning next week. The FDA is in the process of identifying the most suitable antibody test for mass production.
All in all, a very informative meeting with great attendance today.
Announcements
1) As a club, we have elected to support Minnie's Food Pantry in East Plano. The address is 661 18th Street. The hours listed on Minnie's facebook page are 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM. George had noted that Minnie's is asking for Peanut Butter, Spaghetti, and Spaghetti Sauce. If you are unable to go by Minnie's, let Neal know and he will pick up your donation. Minnie's will also accept cash donations.
2) Speaking of our club President, Neal will be working with Lovepacs this afternoon to assist with their efforts to feed school children. Neal will publish details later today. The stated work time was 4 PM to 5 PM.
3) Although we are officially supporting Minnie's, there are many other Food Banks and non-profits in need of our support. St. Mark's is sponsoring a food drive tomorrow. Full details are at the St Mark's Facebook page. The North Texas Food Bank is also in need of assistance during this time of unusual demand.
4) Club dues are due. Members may pay online or by mailing a check to the Club PO box. Rob Banes has sent an email out with instructions regarding payment.
5) For virtual meetings, here is a video on how to get into and participate in a ZOOM.US virtual meeting...
It is easy and fun and we get to laugh at each other stumbling through new technology.
