One of the strangest things to come out of the COVID-19 pandemic in the US is the creative plans devised in order to hold mass events, despite the dangers inherent in these meetings. In Toulumne, California the organisers of a ‘lumber jubilee’ did not want the pandemic to overcome their annual event. Sources: Timberbiz, My Motherlode
For 70 years, this event was known as the Tuolumne Lumber Jubilee. It typically takes place over four days and nights in Tuolumne City.
This year the name was changed due to coronavirus restrictions. The decision to change the name was made because the local health department told the organisers that the jubilee was considered to be a mass gathering and the only exceptions are for religious services and protests.
Since the event started with a church service it ticked one box, then the organisers renamed the event a protest in order to be in compliance with state and local orders.
The event has been scaled down to one day and so some events will not be held such as the carnival rides.
However, the protest will include ax throwing, Jack n Jill, Bull of the Woods, Underhand Chop, Men’s Buck, Women’s Ax, Arm Wrestling, Speed Ax, Hot Saw, Mike’s Mowers, Chopper and more.
Asked how just changing the wording made the event a protest one of the organisers said it was a protest in the fact that they were having it saying: “we can’t stay in this constant fear. We can’t stay in this constant state of closure. It’s not healthy for the community. It’s not healthy for our economy. So, in itself it’s a protest to say as a community we’re still having this.”
The organisers have not heard back from the Tuolumne County Public Health Department since the name change.
