by Tom Conger
Tom Conger at Snoqualmie- Xmas, 2019
The Moment of Truth
So, had just moved into RVM, and was anxious to finish unpacking and begin to savor some of the many features and activities which had helped me decide to move here. Plus meet my new neighbors and reconnect with old friends who have retired here. Was invited to share a Sunday brunch at the Plaza with some of both; it was apparently the first attempt at sit-down service, the sumptuous buffet having been shut down in an early attempt to deal with the burgeoning COVID-19 crisis.
What a lovely occasion: not only did I get to join old friends from home, but was also meeting new folks with common interests. Things were beginning to fall into place. Then, at about mid-afternoon, it was announced that all meal service at all on-campus restaurants was being suspended. Quarantine conditions were being imposed, and we were instructed to stay in our units and begin to shelter in place. All joint recreational activities were halted, and all communal facilities were shut down. How rude…!
During one of my marketing visits…
I was told there were book clubs @RVM – not a couple, but five (5)! The Library was also a wonder of wonders. I was intrigued. Was then escorted to the pool to watch water volleyball – what fun! Was duly awed by the state-of-art equipment in the gym. Observed Dean conducting an exercise class; he came over and introduced himself, exuding energy and enthusiasm. We visited the various craft shops, and looked in on the Art Studio. The auditorium was impressive, and Ambassador Buddemeier wowed us with the Readiness display cases – would one need all that equipment/material in case of natural disaster…?! We grabbed a fresh cup of coffee at one of the hospitality stations and sat down to contemplate the spate of amenities within immediate reach – this place truly was “Disneyland for Geezers”…! That all went down the drain on March 12 . . .
Well, there was always the Symphony, the Chorale performances, and the kaleidoscope of presentations in nearby Ashland. Wrong = likewise canceled.
We Were Really on Lock Down!
Local dentists, doctors, chiropractors and other personal services either suspended or severely reduced services; so much for getting a haircut, or having toenails clipped (for those who could no longer reach/service their own feet). The RVM Health Center managed to cut off new enrollments, in anticipation of some form of new arrangement, as the in-house MDs would both be retiring at about this time. the Beauty Shop, of course, was closed. The Boutique and Haberdashery slammed shut.
Mercy – my spirits were beginning to flag. My to-read stack of books was beginning to dwindle. What to do? Eureka!
Time for an inspirational visit with the unflappable Father Joel. But, alas, also a poor concept – you know, social distancing and all that. And then he went on a sabbatical to Kansas. Maybe it’s time to finally obtain a television set…? Bleagh – how mundane. But there is the ever-present channel 900 – manna from atop the hill…!
