Turning Coronavirus Adversity into Opportunity [OPINION]

So now that civilization, as we know it, has come to a crawl due to the coronavirus, we must apply our good old American ingenuity to figure out how to make the best – and perhaps even a few bucks – off of this ugly hand we've been dealt.

All-you-can-eat buffets, concerts, basketball, parades and more are being canceled because of the coronavirus. What's a body to do? We're no longer accustomed to just hanging outside enjoying the weather, so being holed up inside could make for a mighty long spring season. Besides, if you go outside, a mosquito is liable to infect you with eastern equine encephalitis or something.

But think of the opportunities that exist here for those among us who are industrious. How about "I Survived the Coronavirus" t-shirts, bumper stickers, coffee mugs, and other stuff that you can sell online now and after the crisis has passed? Think about it, you could have your own booth at the Whaling City Festival or the Feast – unless, of course, they get canceled too.

And how about toilet tissue? "Our sheets stand up to even the worse strains." Personalized hand sanitizer kits and leather pouches would be a hit as well. You know it's only a matter of time before Nike releases its own line of face masks with the swoosh logo embossed upon it. Beat them to it.

The possibilities are endless for someone with the entrepreneurial spirit and a little time on their hands. Don't be a victim of the coronavirus, capitalize on it. It's the American way!

It's either that or hide under the bed until it's over.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.