Downriver Dispatches

Sanity check

The outbreak of the corona virus has left many with some fears that are unfounded and at times silly. This virus is a serious threat to everyone, but it would be wise to get the facts straight before making assumptions and creating a panic where there should not be one.

While in a grocery store recently, I commented to a man that I had heard that Corona beer sales have dropped because of the virus. I thought it was a joke and so did he. When I said it, another man behind us began laughing hysterically. He looked at us and said that Corona beers sales have taken a nose dive. I wondered why he believed that until he informed us that he was the liquor manager and that the story was true. I suppose one would get really sick from drinking that particular beer, yet I think it would take a dozen of them before the “virus” took effect.

Another instance that gave me pause to think was an establishment that refused to allow customers to use the restroom for fear of the corona virus, but they still served food. Where is the logic in that?

For those who are not aware of this new virus, official government response is that those who have the virus have a 2-14 day incubation period where no symptoms show. The symptoms are flu like with shortness of breath and fever. People are afraid to shake hands while some others are wearing masks. You could be a carrier of the virus and not even known it. A cough on someone’s food and they get it without even knowing it. The best advice given is to limit your traveling.

The one thing I do not understand and I saw it first hand in Astoria at the local Safeway was that the toilet paper aisle was sold out. Are we to expect a toilet paper shortage? Is diarrhea forecasted for our future? Let’s not be impulsive until all the facts are in without any misinformation, hearsay, and downright stupid logic. I think it is time for a sanity check.

Tsuga Gallery Grand Re-opening

On April 3 at 4 p.m. the Tsuga Gallery planned to hold a grand re-opening at 70 Main Street in Cathlamet, but that has been cancelled because of covid-19 concern. For more information contact the gallery at 360-795-0725 or contact Dan Westlind at 360-795-0228.

Lunches, dinner cancelled

Wahkiakum County Health & Human Services is prohibiting congregant events such as ‘sit down' senior lunches effective immediately. Because the community we serve is at a higher risk of health complications and mortality due to the virus, this directive is an effort to limit the exposure of this community and potential transfer of the COVID19 virus. For additional information contact Diane Hollenbeck at 360-465-2991.

The Rosburg Hall Chicken Dinner, scheduled for Sunday is postponed. A new date will be announced.

Johnson Park Activities

Word from the Wahkiakum County Health Department on Tuesday is that Johnson Park is closing for covid-19 concern. That cuts off this weekend's super sale and the Easter Crafts for Kids on April 4. For more information call 360-465-2310.

As many of you know, Johnson Park is in need of board members to help with the organizing and planning of events as well as upkeep of the facility. If you have an event that requires a large building, then this is the place. Not only is there a gymnasium, but also a very large cafeteria for luncheons or dinners.

Also the West End Food Pantry at Johnson Park is open every Thursday from 1-5 p.m. The food is free and will be delivered curbside. Contact Shonda Ware at 360-465-2722 or Toni Fest at 360-465-2393.

Area Schools Update

Last Friday, Washington State Governor Jay Inslee announced that all school districts statewide will be closed through April 24 as part of the state's efforts to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19.