While some venues in the city have cancelled events or suspended operations entirely, Cactus Jack’s Nightclub appears to be trying to cash in on the pandemic.
Chief Public Health Officer of Canada Theresa Tam has recommended avoiding crowded places, staying two metres away from other people and only going out during off-peak hours.
In social media posts made Monday evening by Cactus Jack’s Nightclub, one post read: “Who wants to quarantine with us at CJ’s?” with voting options “Heck Yes” and “Hell Yes.”
Another poll asked if the club should open Monday night, when it is usually closed, and if it should open until 2 a.m. every night the coming week. Voters were 60 per cent in favour, 40 per cent against.
Club owner Jordan Landry told KTW in text messages that he planned to continue operating with the understanding there is a 50-person maximum gathering size, including staff.
"If I have to close, then I have to close," Landry said. "That simple."
When asked for further comment on whether he was concerned about social distancing recommendations made by experts and provincial and federal health authorities, Landry refused to comment, suggesting a KTW reporter visit his bar and buy a beer.
Cactus Jack’s St. Patrick’s Day event is scheduled for Tuesday at 10 p.m.
Its Facebook event page lists 20 people interested, but nobody has yet confirmed attending. Another event remains scheduled for the bar later this week.
Thompson Rivers University announced over the weekend that its students, many of whom often attend events at Cactus Jack’s Nightclub, would not be in classes this week, as the institution sorts out how the winter semester will continue next week.
The Duchess Nightclub, meanwhile, announced Monday evening that it would close until further notice due to the pandemic and advised patrons to check social media for updates and changes.
The Blue Grotto Nightclub has cancelled Thursday’s Ozzy for Aussies fundraiser and the May 7 show, Chris Holmes and the Mean Men. The club has not posted any notices on social media regarding its plans for continued operations.
Shark Club Sports Bar has offered free delivery through Skip the Dishes in light of the pandemic and, as of March 13, implemented additional cleaning and sanitization measures.
The club said it is also offering curb-side delivery for take-out orders.
The club only has one event scheduled and is advising patrons to check social media for further updates.
