Prince Albert resident Neil Headrick uses video conferencing platforms like Zoom to stay connected with family and friends. (submitted photo/Neil Headrick)

By Ian Gustafson

Easter celebrations

Family celebrations adapt to COVID-19 restrictions; Premier asks public to stay apart for Easter

Apr 10, 2020 | 12:59 PM

Like many across the province, a Prince Albert man and his extended family are finding a way to be together this Easter long weekend, while also staying apart.

Former 900 CKBI radio host Neil Headrick is taking advice from government and health officials to celebrate the holiday through a virtual gathering online.

Its something Headrick and his family have used several times since self-isolation and social distancing measures were implemented due to the COVID-10 pandemic. About two weeks ago, his daughter contacted almost 20 friends and family to play bingo through a video conferencing platform called Zoom. He simply dropped the bingo cards off at each of their houses in advance.

“I was with 18 people and me in the middle calling bingo and we had four pretty exciting games and it was fairly easy to do,” Headrick said. “And everyone had a really good time, so much so, we’re going to be doing it on the Easter weekend as well.”

He said the game was enjoyable for adults and children alike.

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“The kids love it because they’re so comfortable with communication software and everything that goes along with it and doing everything online it was a real treat for the kids to mingle with the adults on the same level,” he explained.

He said the technology is easy to use and he can hear and see everyone very clearly. Doing virtual calls with family or friends has helped fill the void when loved ones can’t be together. Headrick said its been difficult not to see his family as often.

“With six grandchildren that we see all the time, it’s been a struggle of the last three weeks to not actually see them,” he said. “We’ll drive by and wave hello and what not and we get them on FaceTime. But one as young as 7 years old picks up the iPad and can call us in a heartbeat so it’s kind of neat doing that.”

Premier Scott Moe issued a plea to the public on his Twitter account Friday, asking residents to be prepared to celebrate Easter differently this year.

Moe said gatherings should be limited to the people in your home. Health officials previously suggested only one person from each household goes shopping and to do so early to beat the holiday weekend rush. Practice social distancing and frequent hand washing.

“I know this is difficult, but I also know you understand how important this is. So, I’d like to wish everyone across Saskatchewan a very Happy Easter. Come together this weekend by staying apart,” Moe said.

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Ian.gustafson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @iangustafson12