About the Photograph:

Variegated Rubber Plant that is VERY old. Unfortunately, it was too large to move from the Solar Room when the Arctic Blast hit. Before the temperatures in the Solar Room got down before freezing (for the first time ever), this was a pretty & healthy plant. Now, I’m trying to decide if I should keep it… Although the plant managed to survive the deep freeze, most every leaf is severely damaged. It looks really bad.

This plant made the cross country move with us many, many moons ago when we made the move from the East Coast to the Midwest. That’s the main reason I’m now somewhat reluctant to let it go; even though I know that I probably should.

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COVID US News One Year Ago Flashback
March 2, 2020
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There are 102 cases of the novel coronavirus in the United States, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as state and local governments.

VP Mike Pence: 'The risk to the American people of the coronavirus remains low'

Twitter encourages all employees to work from home

Carnival Cruise Lines is changing some ship itineraries as some countries are not allowing ships to dock because of concerns over coronavirus.

First responders in Washington to begin wearing protective gear for all calls.

Washington governor says people should reconsider attending large events because of coronavirus concerns.

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Forward to the Present Time
Updated March 2, 2021

“Texas will lift its mask requirement and allow businesses to reopen at full capacity next week, Governor Greg Abbott has announced. "It is now time to open Texas 100%," the Republican said on Tuesday. The announcement in Texas came as similar rules were lifted in other states, including Michigan, Louisiana, and Mississippi, which also ended its mask mandate.

But the administration of US President Joe Biden has made it clear coronavirus restrictions are still necessary. President Biden - in contrast with his predecessor Mr Trump - has made fighting the virus a priority for his administration.

On Monday the director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned of a "potential fourth surge of cases" if the country lapsed into complacency.

Covid-19 data shows that, while infections and deaths have declined in recent weeks, they are still at high levels relative to other countries.” BBC
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