Local Organizations Respond To Coronavirus Pandemic, Cancel Events
Updated to include Washington County Historical Society’s Banquet Cancellation
Updated to include Blue and White Night Cancellation
Updated to include Community Center of Nashville’s Chicken Dumpling Dinner Postponement
Many local organizations and events are taking extra precautions to prevent the spread of coronavirus, including canceling some events.
Washington County Hospital issued a statement about a new policy prohibiting visitors under the age of 18 at the hospital, which began Wednesday.
“In accordance with the recommendation of the Illinois Department of Health, regarding the spread of the COVID-19, effective immediately, there will be a visitor restriction implemented for anyone under the age of 18.
“The restriction will be effective today until further notice. Our first priority is the safety and well-being of the patients we serve, who can be the most vulnerable (to acquire) this virus.
“We realized and understand the importance of support and encouragement from family and friends during the healing process so we encourage anyone under the age 18 to reach out to your loved ones via phone, Skype, FaceTime, etc. Please feel free to contact the nurse’s station for updates on your loved ones.”
Washington County Senior Services posted on Facebook Wednesday that: Effective immediately, as a precaution to the COVID-19, there will be no dine in meals available at either of the Okawville or Nashville Senior Centers. Seniors are welcome to order a meal for carry out only. All activities will be suspended as well. Home Delivered Meals will continue as usual. We will keep you updated of any changes on the radio and Facebook. You may still come in for individual services such as drivers’ license discount and/or Medicare/Medicaid applications. If you have any questions or concerns please the Okawville Senior Center at 243-6533 or 243-6605 or the Nashville at 327-4078.”
An 8th Grade Career Conference at Kaskaskia College in Centralia on Friday has been canceled. More than 1,200 students from around the area were signed up to attend the event. Organizer Diane Keortge said there is no word yet if the event will be rescheduled.
The Nashville PSO cancelled its annual Blue and White Night on March 28. No word on whether the date will be rescheduled.
The Washington County Historical Society said Friday that it is canceling its annual banquet on April 18.
“The Washington County Historical Society is saddened to announce the Annual Banquet scheduled for April 18 has been canceled at this time. The banquet will be rescheduled at a later date. Those that purchased tickets, may hold your tickets or call Elaine at 327-8075 for information for refund.”
The Community Center of Nashville announced on Thursday evening that its annual chicken and dumpling dinner will be rescheduled.
“Due to public health concerns and the safety of those in attendance, we will be postponing this years Chicken and Dumpling Dinner. We will let everyone know when we have a new date set. Thank you for your understanding.”
Last week, Nashville District 49 Superintendent Michael Brink sent home this letter to parents on March 3. stating that the school “will continue to closely monitor recommendations and will update” as soon as there are “significant changes in recommendations for schools.”
On March 13 this letter was sent out to Primary and Middle School parents regarding the district’s stance and preparation in the coming weeks.
Here is a link to the CDC’s guidelines regarding the coronavirus. You can also find information from the Illinois Department of Public Health here.
WCH posted this photo on how you can stop the spread of COVID-19.
HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital said Thursday that it was canceling several spring events.
“Out of an abundance of caution, HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital Breese has regretfully decided to postpone several of our upcoming events. This decision is being made to best ensure the health and wellbeing of our community. The following list of events have been cancelled:
- March 19 – Empty Bowl Mass
- March 19 – Empty Bowl Lunch
- April 9 – Safe Sitter Class
- April 13 – Diabetes Support Group
- April 30 – Eat Your Way to Better Health
At this time, HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital Breese has not had any confirmed cases of COVID-19, but we are taking the necessary precautions based on recommendations by public health officials to prevent the spread of any contagious diseases. St. Joseph’s Hospital Breese will continue to evaluate other classes and programs. For more information about the hospital’s classes and events, visit stjoebreese.com/events.”
The Nashville News will continue to update this post as more information becomes available.
