I heard on the radio this morning that because of the current coin shortage there might be an announcement soon to eliminate the penny from production. This already makes it an endangered species. As a coin collector, I’ve always been a fan of the penny, always intrigued with its shiny copper-like surface, distinguishing it from every other coin. I spotted two this morning on my run, but sadly someday we’ll carry nothing but silver in our pockets. In the meantime, they’ll be hoarded by collectors and unwelcome at stores. Will 2020 be the last date stamped near Abraham Lincoln’s face? Will other faces like Jefferson and Washington start to change on coins in lieu of current politics? 

The University of Texas is changing their tune about stadium names and statues to honor Black Lives Matter. Also, the Oregon State vs. Oregon rivalry may not longer be called the “Civil War.” There will no Redskin team in Washington D.C., although the city’s whole identity may eventually get a non-offensive makeover. It’s hard enough to keep track of names, but get out your scorecards because we’ve only just begun. 

Protesters were back on the Portland streets last night after a week’s vacation. Downtown looks like a war zone even thou these are supposedly “peaceful” demonstrations. Only a few fires last night where statues once stood. The Governor seems to think everything is under control and that freedom of speech includes damaging graffiti and senseless gatherings. Looks like the Feds will be back soon – someone has to protect these downtown businesses. Police Matter but they sure aren’t getting much support from the state. It’s sad when people take advantage of our liberal nature – like spoiled kids left unsupervised. Kate Brown or Mayor Wheeler won’t soon be getting their own coins or statues.

My wife and I got tired of being cooped up and went for an impromptu drive yesterday. We ended up at Haystack Rock. I was surprised it wasn’t covered with graffiti or surrounded by a fence. The area restaurants were very busy and had responsibly spread out into the parking lots to keep people properly socially distanced. However, there were too many people on the streets without masks and in groups. The beach was not crowded but we wore our masks strictly to keep our noses warm. There was a strong, cold breeze that made us both yearn for Florida. I have a new tan line today just over my nose and a red forehead. Getting out of the city for a few hours was a refreshing change. Tally enjoyed chasing the seagulls. There were no boarded-up windows, trash in the streets, or homeless camps on the sidewalks. Maybe we need to get out of town more often?