Virtual activities pop up; fish markets remain open

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA—With orders from national and local governments to not gather in groups of more than 10 to fight the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), nearly all events planned for April and even some in May in Southern California have been postponed or canceled. Many maritime and ocean museums and educational facilities are now offering online programming and those unable to get out on the water during this time, can still find fresh fish at local seafood markets. Fish Markets Many fresh fish markets on the Southern California coast remain open. Tuna Harbor Dockside Market in San Diego took to social media to make sure customers know they are still selling fresh seafood every Saturday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., as usual. “The Department of Environmental Health has told us that the Health Officer Order that limits gatherings to less than 10 people, does not apply to Fishermen’s Markets. Markets providing food are an essential function needed, and allowed to remain open,” the market stated in a Facebook post on March 23. The weekly Saturday Fish Market at the pier in Santa Barbara and the weekly Saturday morning fish market in San Pedro, also remain open. The Commercial Fishermen of Santa Barbara noted COVID-19 is taking a toll...