In times of trouble don’t let panic set in

During the deepest, darkest, scariest part of the Great Depression of the 1930s, President Roosevelt famously rose to the occasion, and said this during his very first inaugural address:
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.”
It was an inspiring moment. It is also a phrase to keep in mind during this time of a possible catastrophic viral outbreak.
The coronavirus has yet to hit this country at full force, but health officials say that’s coming. And the death toll of COVID-19 could yet prove to be mindboggling.
This country has been through a number of disasters and crises, but we have always survived.
The last pandemic that might provide a parallel to this one is the famous 1918 influenza when millions of people died worldwide.
Right now, we are nowhere near that. The only thing we are contending with are temporary school closings, and the closing of certain businesses — most notably, bars and restaurants.
We know these closings are going to hurt a number of folks financially here in Hamtramck.
This is a time for all of us to come together and help our friends and neighbors.
It’s also a time to take this health scare seriously, and follow common-sense hygienic practices – most notably, washing your hands frequently and keeping your distance from others.
We will get through this.
Posted March 20, 2020