I’m sure many of you had your own “F” words after hearing that we’re staying on Zoom for a few more weeks. I know I did after hearing the news of the big spike in Covid 19 cases. But I’m using “F” is for “Fingers Crossed” this week because I’ve read encouraging news that this Omicron variant spike could be short-lived compared to the other variants. Following the pattern established in South Africa (where it was first discovered just last month), the Omicron variant of the coronavirus appears to have peaked in both New York and London, with the number of new cases declining sharply in recent days. Wastewater studies in Boston come to a similar conclusion. While hospitalizations nationwide have risen sharply recently, the good news is that the seven-day moving average of deaths is not accelerating. So keep your “Fingers Crossed” that we will start to see a sharp decrease in cases here in Spokane and that we’ll be ready to get back in person again very soon.

 

My other Rotary “F” word this week is “Familiar Face.” I’m looking forward to seeing the familiar face of former club member Kevin Parker this Thursday! Kevin is a fantastic speaker and I still remember his presentation to our club many years ago where he recounted his experience with being at Columbine High School on that tragic April 20, 1999 day. His experiences on that day and many days since have helped make Kevin Parker one of our true community leaders. Kevin will be speaking on leadership, and if you have any potential new members or guests that would like to hear a great speaker, please do invite them to join our Zoom call this Thursday and be sure to let Rotary Office know.

 

So keep your “Fingers Crossed” that this spike in Covid cases will be short live! And please be sure to turn in on Thursday to see a “Familiar Face” talking to us about leadership!

 

                      Truly honored,