Black and White, Blue and Red

When I grew up the color red was my favorite color.  My next favorite color was BLUE.  On the absolute spectrum I wore BLACK pants at night and during the darker months of the year and WHITE to show off my tan in the summer.  When I got married I chose a Grey/Silver and Rose as my wedding colors.  This was my solution to tying my colors to be wedding appropriate as I thought Black, White and Red were a bit stark.  The silver/grey was my neutral and the Rose, a muted RED.

Since the first time I voted I was an Independent.  I always voted for the person and not necessarily aligned my self with the party.  In most National elections I would support the Democratic candidates, however in a few rare circumstances I voted Republicans on the local State level.  

This all changed after 2016.  There is no middle ground between the Biden and Trump election.  One party stands to bring back the moral compass of this country as represented by  Tikkun Olam, the Jewish concept of healing the world.  This party is represented by BLUE.  

The other stands for power and economic gain only.  This party is represented by RED.  There is not one single item on their platform resembling a moral compass.  They are doing all they can to suppress the vote of non-trump supporters.  From total irresponsible handling of the corona virus, to gerrymandering, to environment deregulation this party just wants power.  There is not one statement I have heard that shows concern for the public well being.  At over crowded super spreader events  and trump rallies the main focus has been lies about the opposition party and minimizing the largest pandemic we have ever experienced.  Trump and his party are a health risk and menace to our well being nationwide.  He is still focused on crooked hillary.  

If you have not yet voted please do safely.  Wear a mask and social distance.  If you have questions about where to cast your ballot click here.  If you experience voter suppression please call 1-866-OUR-VOTE.  Your vote matters and your vote should be counted. 

I long for the days when we have a leader we can trust. I long for the days when we have a leader that cares about all Americans.  Until next week,  BLUE will continue to be my color of choice.  I will do all I can to vote and support the Biden/Harris campaign the next 4 days.  I will be on the absolute side of this campaign and cannot be Independent for now.  An Independent or 3rd party vote will only dilute the Biden victory.  

After the election, I hope all conversations can go back to the grey/silver zone in a future where we can all talk to each other and engage in civil conversations.  I do not like how every encounter is black or white, liberal or right wing.  But this is how it is in a trump world that feeds it self on divisiveness.  If Biden is elected he will work hard to bring this country together and end this trend.  I look forward to when I can see RED as just a color that I like and not a party that I abhor.  I will proudly polish my nails BLUE this weekend.  If you would like to help with the Biden victory please click here.    

Is Dr. Fauci today's Hamilton?

Many of us recently had the opportunity to watch the film version of Hamilton on Disney Plus with the original cast this past month. If you haven't seen it yet it will go down as one of the best musicals ever created and in my opinion a MUST SEE.   One of my favorite songs from the show was "My Shot". During this song Hamilton states that he is not going to give away his opportunity to be heard and an integral part of the "Revolution" in the founding of our nation.  

Perhaps I am going out on a limb to say that Dr. Fauci is today's Hamilton but I like to think outside the box.  Although there are many attempts to silence his knowledge on the current Covid19 pandemic he is finding other ways to give "his shot" of expertise to all who will listen to fight the pandemic we are all facing.  He is hoping to be heard particularly amongst millennials now that it is impacting this age group more than previously thought. Although his advice is being downplayed and he was not invited to this week's White House briefing (which appear to be less than transparent about the true impact of the pandemic) he is speaking out where he can over social media.  

Today's New York Times opinion section shares an eye opening interview with Dr. Fauci.  He has  important information to share to responsibly advise on the current pandemic.  Perhaps in the future there will be a play about him as the true hero of the  "Revolution" we need to battle today.  

As we document the history of Covid-19 let's all click on his name below 

 and say   "Dr. Anthony Fauci."

Wendy is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Needham.  She enjoys coffee, walking her dog, theater/arts, reading, writing, travel and meeting new people.  She always welcomes the opportunity to have a virtual coffee now that we are amidst the “new normal”.  Check out her website at www.wendybcb.com or her fb page @wendybcb as she posts up to date content to meet the ever changing marketplace.

Healthy Home, EPA deregulation and Dark Waters

Did you know that many of the products we bring into our homes are harmful to our lungs?  This is particularly alarming given the impact of COVID19 on persons with compromised lung capacity.  Just this past week the Trump administration rolled back the Clean Air Act  and EPA regulations limiting toxin levels we are exposed to by just breathing. It is very important for each of us to be our own watchdogs. 

The interests of large corporations are for the bottom line not the well being of the consumer if there is a way to cut costs.   Under our system of government lobbyist are able to appeal regulatory oversight commonly risking the interests of the consumers.  This is increasingly a growing concern since the many rollbacks of the current administration.  A Globe article I read awhile back shared tips on selecting safer building materials for homes.  I recently saw the movie Dark Waters which followed the trial against Dupont Corporation's use of toxic chemicals resulting in an increase in cancer victims for decades as uncovered by Attorney Robert Billot.  We are surrounded by harmful chemicals in many of the products we use, however big corporations care more about their profit than the impact these have on the end consumers.  

Deregulation is not just limited to building materials.  There are many consumer products that have been submitted and approved for deregulation under the current administration (for a list click here.)  For example,   I was curious to see how deregulation impacts our daily life and was surprised to see this resource put together by the Brookings Institute.   

Fearful of adding additional risk in my own house,  I began to research products that would limit exposure to toxins.  Since the pandemic I have been using disinfectants constantly to clean every surface I go near.  Although mitigating the risk of the virus though I feared I may be increasing the risk of breathing toxic chemicals.  I was recently introduced to household cleaning products by the company Melaleuca.  One product in particular that I want to share is their disinfectant Sol-U-Guard Botanical Disinfectant Spray.   Studies have shown this to be effective and approved by the EPA as a disinfectant when used properly against Corona virus.  As with their other products this is plant based without the harmful toxins found in commercial products.  I am attaching a link here to share information about this product.

I started to use Melaleuca product for my own home and have found their cleaning products to be highly effective in getting the job done.  Jill Becker, MD recently introduced me to this product line since I am a  Realtor.  She suggested I explore as a welcome gift idea for a client's housewarming.  Although I admit I was hesitant at first, I have since learned more about the product line and agreed to collaborate with her to provide information to anyone who may be interested in learning more.  If you do have interest I am happy to host a Zoom session with her.  Please click here to set up a preliminary time and I will confirm..

As I have mentioned and share on my website my greatest passion in life is connecting people with the right resources.  In this time of great concern about pandemics and deregulation of products that may harm each of us or the environment where we live and breath each day I feel this is one small step to mitigating inherent risk.

Wendy is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Needham.  She enjoys coffee, walking her dog, theater/arts, reading, writing, travel and meeting new people.  She always welcomes the opportunity to have a virtual coffee now that we are amidst the “new normal”.  Check out her website at www.wendybcb.com or her fb page @wendybcb as she posts up to date content to meet the ever changing marketplace.

It’s Fri-yeah, Don't Let FOMO outweigh Staying Safe Over The Weekend and Beyond

It’s Fri-yeah Friday and the start of July 4^th weekend.  This is normally a very busy time with large gatherings of family and friends, fireworks, parades, arts & crafts fairs and traffic. 

We are in the middle of a pandemic and our normal behaviors have been put on yield.  Before doing any activities determine your motivation first.  Then ask the following questions as you are tempted to venture out this weekend.  

1)                  Is there any urgency to be anywhere?

2)                  Does risk of exposure outweigh your personal FOMO?

3)                  What behaviors can I conduct to mitigate risk and stress?

I have been extremely alarmed since the start of this pandemic and have been trying to post positive ways to make the best of the situation.  If you follow me on FB or IG I share these with the hashtag  #funthingstodowhilesocialdistancing.

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Perhaps Dorothy had it right in The Wizard of Oz.  My strongest recommendation is to stay home and watch HAMILTON and other movies streaming this weekend.  The Boston Globe also shares some other safe things you can do here.

In the midst of writing this post I discovered an amazing resource for any Covid questions with links to where one can find potential answers.  CLICK HERE .

No matter what you do this weekend it is imperative to practice smart behavior.  On Morning Joe this morning Health Care Expert Dr. Leana Wen recommended  5 actions to follow.  

I am writing this blog to go a bit more in depth with details.

TRAVEL

Driving your own car is your safest best-wear gloves if you need to get gas and try to minimize restroom usage.   Thus don’t drink too much before your trip. I, personally minimize my travel as I would not use a public restroom.  Bring your own food if possible and if you need to stop try going off the road to a local place with curbside pickup.

Airlines are packing travelers in. It is impossible to stay even 6 ft apart.  There is no way to know who you are sitting near, where your food came from, who touched the surface before you and how droplets travel in such a confined space.  Only travel if an absolute emergency and even then if you it is better to drive.

Buses-check local area for social distancing protocols.  Surfaces and air space are a risk, thus I would not take public transportation.

Ride Share-I would be hesitant.  Think …Who was in the vehicle before you?.  What about the driver? Who has she/he been exposed to? 

HOSTING GUESTS

If you do have company I would verify they have not been near anyone or traveled in a hot zone for at least 2 weeks before even inviting or welcoming them to your home.  I would make it clear that you have been following safe protocols and can not risk exposure. 

Set up chairs that are 6 plus feet apart in your yard.

If they need the rest room,  have them use one dedicated guest facility and clean it after they leave. 

Ideally its best if guests bring their own food and utensils.  If not use papergoods and serve individual portions vs family style. 

GOING TO THE BEACH-

image below says it all

GOING OUT TO EAT

If you comfortably feel you do want to go out to eat here are some recommendations:

I am sharing this post from the Newton Needham Chamber of Commerce newsletter and and have edited it a bit.  These practices/protocols should be followed anywhere you go for services.

10 ways to help

our restaurants this summer

The upcoming three-day holiday weekend provides a perfect opportunity to help local restaurants come back, safely and successfully.

Here’s ten ways you all help our restaurants and their employees while dining out this weekend and all summer long.

1.     Don’t go if you don’t feel well. Don’t risk others’ health for a chance to enjoy a burger and fries.

2.     Wear a mask. Not while eating, but all other times. Face coverings aren’t for your protection as much as they are for the protection of the employees and your fellow diners. Show respect to your server and staff who will be working hard to provide you with a fulfilling and safe experience. They’ll be working hard to ensure your safety. Show that you care about their well-being too.

3.     Keep your distance. Social distancing rules exist for a reason. As happy as you may be to see your long-lost college roommate sitting at another table, wave and make plans to Facetime later.

4.     Go easy on the staff. They’re taking a risk coming to work. They’re cleaning every surface you touch. And it’s hot wearing a mask while working as a short order cook or carrying plates of food outside in the 90-degree heat. Try and place your full order at one time so they don’t have to run back and forth.

5.     Expect to pay more. If you’ve been to the grocery store, you’ve seen how food prices have gone up. Restaurateurs also have a lot of fixed costs (rent, insurance, utilities, equipment) and new added costs, including PPE and cleaning protocols, but fewer customers to cover them. Prices need to go up.

6.     Leave a great tip. Social distancing requirements have reduced the number of seats and, therefore, customers over the course of a shift. Tip 20 percent or more. 25 percent would be appropriate in these times.

7.     Don’t be a no-show. With limited seating, every customer matters. If you make a reservation and can’t keep it, cancel as soon as possible, not ten minutes before. Don’t be the person who makes multiple reservations for the same night, so you can decide where to go later.

8.     Expect that things will be different. The menu may have changed. The silverware may be plastic. Ketchup may come in packets. Certain ingredients may not be available.  Go with the flow and enjoy.

9.     Don’t linger. Enjoy your meal. Enjoy desert. Then let someone else enjoy your seat (right after your hardworking wait person wipes it all down!)

10.  Don’t yap on Yelp. We’re all adjusting to a whole new way of doing things. If you were disappointed by something or have other feedback, talk to a manager.

NETWORKING/MEETING NEW PEOPLE  and even DATING TIPS

Okay I don't have all the answers but the comic at the top basically says most of it.  Zoom, FT and real phone conversations are the best first step.  I am available to meet new clients using any medium and enjoy a first coffee Zoom these days as a substitute for meeting at Starbucks.  

I know I have not covered everything but I wanted to post this blog before the weekend kicks off.   The bottom line is to be SMART, be SAFE and always ask yourself if an activity is worth the potential risk of COVID19. I can’t think of any activity I would want to do where I could answer YES.

I wish you and your family a Happy and Safe Holiday.  This is a time to create new memories under "new normal" circumstances.  It will be a new history to share in the future with your children, grandchildren and generations to come so make the best of it!!

Wendy is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Needham.  She enjoys coffee, walking her dog, theater/arts, reading, writing, travel and meeting new people.  She always welcomes the opportunity to have a virtual coffee now that we are amidst the “new normal”.  Check out her website at www.wendybcb.com or her fb page @wendybcb as she posts up to date content to meet the ever changing marketplace.

COVIVING under the New Normal

I have come up with a new term #COVIVING (combination term for surviving covid19 and living under the new normal).  I will be using this for my future posts on FB, IG and Linked In when I write and share tips on living in the “new normal”.  

As we venture outside we need to take extra steps and be aware of those who may be around us at all times.  Most of us have followed the social distancing protocols since early-mid March but as the economy has opened and we become exposed to others who may not have been as diligent or may have had different levels of potential expose it will be critical to be extra precautious.  Because there was no national standard of protection the mitigatation efforts across states have been wide in range from full lockdown to re-opening while numbers have increased in cases such as in Florida and Texas.

This is alarming and makes me nervous.  For instance, while I plan to spend time down the Cape this summer there will be many visitors from other states who I may crosspaths with.  I have no way of knowing what their past protocols have been, if they are a-symptomic or had direct exposure while traveling to the Cape (simply by sitting on a plane with someone who may have the virus unknowingly).  Sadly I think we need to be on full alert and assume each contact can be a risk until proven otherwise.

Fortunately, I am able to work from home and have been following recommended protocols.  I am able to incorporate these into my day to day real estate services with virtual tools to help clients as well.  (If interested please let me know as I have started to share tips via Zoom sessions).

Below I have put together a list from an article in today’s Boston Globe written by Amanda Kaufman to follow as we enter Phase 2 and beyond to venture out. It is pretty comprehensive with CDC guidance as its base for basic ventures and as always common sense and responsibility is up to each of us. 

Going to a restaurant

Wear a cloth face covering as much as possible when not eating.

Maintain a social distance of 6 feet or more when in an entryway, hallway, or waiting area, or when dining with people who don’t live with you

Wash your hands when you arrive at the restaurant and when you leave. If you’re not able to wash your hands at a sink, use hand sanitizer

Choose food and drink options that are not self-serve to avoid using shared serving utensils

Call ahead and ask if staff are wearing face coverings

Going to the gym

Try to make reservations and check-in online when possible

Seek out facilities where you can exercise outdoors or gyms that provide virtual training sessions

Use hand sanitizer before using workout machines and wipe down equipment with disinfecting wipes

Don’t share equipment, like resistance bands and weightlifting belts, that can’t be cleaned between uses

Limit attending indoor group training sessions. If you do go to a group class inside, try to maintain as much social distance as possible and wear a face covering if it doesn’t interfere with your workout. Try to open the windows to increase airflow

Don’t hug, shake hands, or bump elbows with others

Wear a cloth face covering when interacting with people

Going on vacation

Book reservations and check in online, and use a mobile room key and contactless payment, if possible

Wear a cloth face covering in the lobby and other common areas

Consider taking the stairs, or wait to use the elevator until you can ride alone or with other people from your household

Request contactless delivery for room service orders

Try to minimize being in areas that may lead to close contact (within 6 feet) with others, like patios, lounging areas, spas, salons, and fitness areas

Ask about the hotel’s policies for cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and items like pens, light switches, remote controls, elevator buttons, and phones

Refer to the CDC’s tips for traveling amid the coronavirus pandemic and cleaning your hotel room or lodgings

Having friends and family over

Try to host your get-together outdoors. If it’s not possible to be outside, make sure the space is well-ventilated by opening windows

Minimize close contact by verbally greetings guests instead of hugging, shaking hands, or bumping elbows

Wear a face covering when less than 6 feet apart from people or if you’re indoors

Wash your hands (or use hand sanitizer if you’re not able to access soap and water) when arriving and leaving the gathering. Provide single-use towels or napkins for drying hands so guests don’t share a towel

Arrange seating to allow for 6 feet of space. Those who live together don’t need to be 6 feet apart

Encourage guests to bring their own food and drinks

If you plan to serve food, designate one person who serves everyone to avoid multiple people touching serving utensils. If there are sharable items, like condiments, identify one person to serve them, too, or use single-use options, if possible

Wash and sanitize reusable items like napkins and tablecloths after the event

Ask guests to wash their hands before serving or eating food

Use gloves when taking out the trash and wash your hands after taking off the gloves

Provide cleaning supplies so guests can wipe down surfaces before they leave

Keep a list of attendees in case of future contact tracing

Going to a library

Use online reservations and check-out systems, if possible

Choose using a digital reader, like an iPad or a Kindle, when possible, instead of printed materials

Request curbside pick-up, if available. Wear a cloth face covering during exchanges

Wash your hands before and after exchanges

Clean and disinfect electronics, like laptops or iPads, and materials that are in plastic coverings, like CDs and DVDs during returns and exchanges

Getting your nails done

Call in advance to book an appointment to avoid waiting next to others. If you have to wait, maintain 6 feet of social distance

Wear a cloth face covering at all times while inside

Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before receiving your treatment and after touching common surfaces like counters, doorknobs, and faucets

Use cashless payment, if possible

Try to use a no-touch trash can

Wait in your car or outside until the salon can contact you over the phone when it’s your turn, if the salon offers that service

Going to the bank

Use drive-through banking services, ATMs, or mobile banking apps for routine transactions that don’t require face-to-face help

Wear a cloth face covering when doing in-person exchanges, and try to stay 6 feet apart from others

Use hand sanitizer after withdrawing or depositing money or visiting an ATM, and wash your hands thoroughly when you get home

What items to keep on you

The CDC recommends everyone keep on hand a cloth face covering, tissues, and hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.

Staying safe during events

The CDC also released guidance for organizing and attending large gatherings, like concerts, sporting events, and political rallies. The guidelines come as people across the country are participating in protests against police brutality and racial injustice that can draw tens of thousands of people.

Public health officials say the “highest risk” of COVID-19 spread is at “large in-person gatherings where it is difficult for individuals to remain spaced at least 6 feet apart and attendees travel from outside the local area.”

As the days ahead still challenge each of us under the "new normal" please check my facebook page and linked in for tips and recommendations of dealing with the situation in context of the real estate market and life in general.  I am thinking of tweeting when I go places and don't see long lines to alert my followers with the following #'s (#nameofplace, #coviving).  Feel free to follow my lead and share this to trend as well.  This idea came to me after reading an article in today's WSJ "Is There a Line at Trader Joe's).  Also please follow me on IG and my website.  If you have any questions feel free to reach out directly to me as well at wendy.bornstein@nemoves.com.