For the first time in history, we can save the Human Race by lying in front of the TV and doing nothing. LET’S NOT SCREW THIS UP! Yes, for the good of all we have been ordered to quarantine ourselves to help flatten the curve in the spread of the COVID-19 virus, thus a staycation. At the onset of this virus, due to similar symptoms, we often equated this virus with influenzas, yet it quickly proved to be so much more dangerous than the mere Flu. Here's a list of symptoms to watch for. By now you have all heard the best practices to help prevent the spread of the virus:
1. Avoid close contact with others (6 foot separation)
2. Cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
4. Clean and disinfect frequently any touched object and surfaces.
5. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Of course, should you develop the warning signs of COVID-19: trouble breathing, persistent pressure or pressure in the chest, confusion or the inability to arouse, bluish lips or face, please contact your medical provided immediately. Symptoms will vary with each person so you should consult your medical provider. If you have a medical emergency and need to call 911, notify the operator that you have or think you might have, COVID-19. If possible, put on a facemask or some sort of facial cloth covering before medical help arrives to help reduce the chance of the spread of the virus. Together we will get through this. If you have COVID-19 questions you may call Dayton Public Health at (937) 225-6217 or the Ohio Department of Health at (833) 4-ASK-ODH for information. (Dayton Public Health Clinic does not test for COVID-19). If you’re seeking a health care professional you can visit the all new GayDayton web site to help you find a LGBTQI+ friendly doctor.
What can you do while quarantined? Many of the support groups at the Greater Dayton LGBT Center are moving to conference call or video conferencing during this time so you may still attend via your phone, smart phone, or computer. As a community it is important that we continue to support one another.
What else can you do? Video streaming services are all reporting huge upswings in subscriber usage and new subscribers. Disney has announced its new Pixar film Onward for purchase and rental and will be released to Disney+ streaming on April 3. Warner Bros. is releasing the new Ben Affleck movie The Way Back and The Birds of Prey; if horror is more your style, they are also releasing The Invisible Man less than a month after it appeared in theaters. Perhaps binge watch a series and find out what everyone is talking about when mentioning Baby Yoda, yet if you have not sat down to watch The Mandalorian now is the perfect opportunity to watch, or watch again. You can get some culture: the Metropolitan Operas are streaming nightly. Broadway HD is offering over 300 classic musicals, plays and shows. Additionally, many artists are holding livestreams and virtual concerts. Even the Cincinnati Zoo has a Facebook Live page to show many of their animals. So, while you are at home, there are still many things to capture your attention beyond a puzzle or board game. So now is the time to catch up on your reading and all those projects around the house. Happy Staycation!

What are you doing to fill your time during this Staycation?

Submitted by Randy P.