When the word pandemic is thrown around, it can naturally create panic. Does this mean life as we know it must come to a halt? No. Does it mean we should be on alert, make preparations and change some plans? Yes.
In some cases these changes have been decided for all of us, taking the question off the table and ultimately making it rather easy to stay home. This is the idea: social distancing, a term used to describe keeping ourselves a fair distance from others to stay healthy and not spread any viruses that may not be so dangerous to some but could be fatal for others.
Disneyland has shut its doors, major league sports have postponed games and season starts, race cars are racing with no fans in the stands, and arenas and stadiums have cancelled all shows until further notice.
Here in Powell River, businesses are asking people to be courteous and reschedule appointments or stay home if you have been away recently or are not feeling well, or have maybe been in contact with someone else who has. Some are even closing doors until this settles. And it will.
The number of cases in China, where this is thought to have started, is at an all-time low once again. If we all do our part and keep our distance, choose to staycation and avoid even a fist bump, this will all simmer down and we can carry on washing our hands as a healthy habit and not out of necessity.
Here is a list of events we know to be cancelled or postponed in Powell River:
-
City of Powell River has cancelled all events in its facilities that are expected to have more than 250 people, through to the end of April
-
Seedy Saturday- Saturday, March 14
-
Powell River Town Centre renovation plan event- March 17
-
Women in Business AGM - March 18
-
Brooks Secondary School spring break trip to Europe
-
Kiwanis Book and Marmalade sale - March 21
-
Pierre and Adam Concerts - Cranberry Hall March 21 & Mary Mary Cafe, Texada March 22
-
Chamber luncheon & panel presentation with special guests, City Mayor & Councilors - March 25
-
Chamber Luncheon & Presentation - March 26
-
Colin James concert at the Evergreen Theatre - March 31
-
Townsite Jazz Festival - April 1 to 4
-
Community Easter Egg Hunt - April 11
-
Art from the Attic fundraiser - April 17 & 18
-
2020 Sunshine Coast Trail, Marathon Shuffle - April 26
-
Something to Sing About - PR Hospice Fundraising Gala - May 1
-
The Chowder Challenge for the Northside Fire Department Association - May 9
-
Fit for a King Dinner and Auction - May 9
-
Powell Riviera the Musical - May 7 to 10
-
Powell River Youth Soccer
-
Powell River Minor HockeyProvincial tournament
-
Canadian Martial Arts Academy tournament team- Seattle competition
*If you have an event that should be added to this list, please let us know so we can keep this as up-to-date as possible.
Powell River Food Bankis asking patrons to show ID through the glass door and food will be passed out. No exchanges, no special requests and no one is permitted into the Food Bank at this time.
Here is a list of business changes we know to have happened in Powell River:
A&W Powell River closes dining, drive-thru only to ensure safety of guests and team members.
Paparazzi Pizza has closed its seating area, remaining open regular hours for delivery to homes and pick up vehicles. No cash transactions.
Save On Foods - online ordering and pick up and delivery
Pacific Point Market - Delivery service is now in place, call to place orders.
River City Coffee has temporarily changed its hours to continue to provide a safe environment for customers and staff.
That Chicken Place has now implemented take out and delivery policy until further notice. Delivery is available from Sliammon to Saltery Bay, Tuesday to Sunday from 2 pm to 8 pm.
Powell River Kings Office is closed. Please email [email protected] to renew season tickets.
Powell River Visitor Centre is closed to the public but still available virtually by calling 604.485.4701 or texting 604.414.4948, emailing [email protected]or live chat through powellriver.info, Facebook messaging.
Scizzors Salon & Body Works will be closed until April 1, 604.489.6566
Studio Curious is closed until further notice.
Suncoast Cycles is closed for now.
Kiwanis Garden Manor Assisted Living has a no visitor restriction in place. Family can arrange drop-offs for supplies or comfort items by phoning 604.485.5210 during business hours, 9 am-4:30 pm.
Max Cameron Theatre at Brooks secondary school has cancelled or postponed all shows until further notice. They can be reached by calling 604.483.3900 or emailing [email protected]
Powell River Brain Injury Society drop-in centre is closed until at least April 1. Contact Debbie Dee, Executive Director at [email protected] or check brain injury facebook page.
Powell River Historical Museum & Archives is closed to the public. Core staff are still working and will be responding to research and information requests via email [email protected] and phone 604.485.2222.
Julie's Airport Cafe will be closed starting tomorrow for a minimum of two weeks.
Tla'amin Convenience Store is working with limited hours and possible closure.
Little Hut Curry will be doing takeouts only until further notice and encourage no cash transactions. A set menu for takeout will be available on its Facebook page along with available hours.
PR Hospice Society is closed indefinitely. You may continue to reach them at 604.223.7309 or by email at [email protected].
