WITH BARS and many eateries closed or closing, it could be a very somber St. Patrick’s Day (Flicker/Mary Crandall).

Wow. It’s been a week to remember, and the next few will probably be the same. Changes in our daily lives are happening we might never have imagined, and there is likely more to come.

Before we recite the list of things and places that are off-limits this week, let’s just remember that we will get through this. We will get through it better and faster if we work together and act sensibly. That includes:

• No hoarding.
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly (for at least 20 seconds) with sanitizer or hot water and soap.
• Keep that “social distance” of six feet whenever possible.
• When you sneeze or cough, cover your mouth.
• Fist bump or wave instead of handshake or hug.
• Keep away from unnecessary meetings … your bridge club will wait a few weeks.
• Offer to help the elderly or homebound who may not be able to get out to get food, prescriptions or trips to a physician.

And again … we will get through this.

WEATHER: In the West Orange County cities of Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Stanton and Westminster, the forecast this week is for rain on and off.  One hundred percent chance of rain on Monday, and 20 to 40 percent the rest of the week. Highs range from the high 50s to high 60s.

MEETINGS: Most government meetings have been cancelled, but not all. As of this writing, the Huntington Beach City Council meeting set for tonight (Monday) was still on the schedule. You may also choose to watch it online rather than attending in person.

EVENTS: Most public events have been cancelled, especially those outdoors because of the rain as well as virus concerns. Check with the sponsoring agency.

ENTERTAINMENT: The State of California is ordering the closing of all bars, and requiring that restaurants reduce their seating capacity in order to accommodate that six feet of “social distancing.” In response, some restaurants are closing or are offering take-out service only.

Since gatherings of 250 or more are banned, some venues are reducing capacity or closing. Regal Cinemas, which operates a 16-screen theater complex in Garden Grove, will be cutting its available seating to 50 percent of usual. AMC, which operates a movie complex in The Outlets in Orange, is following the same policy.

HOLIDAY: Tuesday is St. Patrick’s Day. Celebrate it at home.

SPORTS: All high school, college and pro sports are suspended for the time being. Stay inside and play Madden Football.