The continued persistence of Delta variant cases of coronavirus in the region is having an impact on scheduled events in the weeks ahead.
The Chemainus & District Chamber of Commerce had hoped to bring back the Our Chemainus – A Celebration on Oct. 16 after a one-year hiatus due to COVID.
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“With this Delta variant going berserk, I’ve cancelled the Our Chemainus – A Celebration,” said director Roy Summerhayes, who organized the event on behalf of the Chamber.
He said it was best to “err on the side of caution” at this point and not proceed with any further planning.
The debut event in September of 2019 at the Sawmill Taphouse and Grill Event Venue featured members of 35 organizations, businesses and groups setting up booths, and was intended to showcase the town as a great place to live, work and play.
With health restrictions lifting in July, Summerhayes had anticipated the event could be staged again in the fall, but the rise in Delta variant cases has altered those plans.
“We don’t know where this thing’s going,” said Summerhayes. “If you remember what it was like inside the hall when we had the first one, there’s no social distancing in there. It’s just not possible.
“We’re cancelling it this year and looking forward to the new year.”