“The 1906 San Francisco earthquake (estimated magnitude 7.8) on the San Andreas Fault destroys much of San Francisco, California, killing at least 3,000 people, with 225,000–300,000 left homeless, and $350,000,000 in damages.” I just missed the rumble (a 6.9) of 1989, having just taken off from the airport following a few days in the city after the Monterey Indycar race that Rick Mears won. There have supposedly been a few rumblings in cities where we’ve lived but I’ve yet to feel this experience that many of my friends have been through. 

Mario finished second that year in the Monterey Grand Prix, while our Machinist’s Union team with Kevin Cogan at the wheel finished 8th. I don’t remember much about the race but I do remember the reaction of the other passengers on my plane about their concerns about homes and families. They knew they wouldn’t be able to get in touch immediately about any damages or losses but had emergency plans in place. There were very few cell phones at that point, but Motorola had just released the very first “pocket phone” and also the first flip-phone design. Like most people on the road, I was using pay phones to check in with the office. My friends did an interview with an Indianapolis TV competitor the next morning so I knew they were alright, just a bit confused why they didn’t call my station. 

It’s “Matinee Monday” once again since my wife’s bridge lessons are still on holiday break. We plan to see Nightmare Alley or American Underdog this afternoon. School resumes today despite all the Covid concerns that include both of my infected grandkids. My wife and I were fortunate to test negative after exposure on two known fronts and following two days at crowded Disneyworld over Christmas week. I also took the time yesterday to join the 70+ Ski Club, hoping for some discounts on my next visit to the slopes. It won’t be this year, but as the t-shirt slogan goes – Maybe Next Year.