GALA: Covid Precautions for 2021 Conference
August 17, 2021
While the Conference Committee and the Board of Directors are, as of this writing, looking forward to an outstanding conference, we are also keeping a daily watch, using CDC statistics and recommendations, on the COVID situation, especially the Delta Variant, in the Richmond area. We want to assure all members and attendees that we will, at the minimum, be instituting the following precautions for the safety of all.
We have set a date to use as a potential conference cancellation date, should the situation at that time warrant it. While this will be a last resort, we will not hesitate to take this step for the safety of all. It will allow time for all registrants to cancel flights or other transportation.
1. Require masks be worn in classrooms
2. Will socially distance as much as possible in classrooms and the Fiber Room
3. Will go from using large, 10 person tables (in the dining room) to smaller six person tables and with sufficient distance between each.
4. Are recommending that all attendees be fully vaccinated
5. Will have numerous hand sanitizing stations throughout the classrooms, dining room, auction tables and at the main registration table
In addition, the DoubleTree by Hilton has partnered with Lysol, instituting an “Event Ready, Stay Clean” program and is practicing deep cleaning of all areas of the hotel, public areas and rooms. For folks concerned about cleanliness etc., you may request not to have daily housekeeping service and receive only fresh towels, etc. If you would like to see the hotel’s complete “Stay Clean” pages, please email Barb Baker at bebaker@earthlink.net
We will be sending necessary updates through GALA e-blasts, so please watch your inbox.
Thank you for your support and understanding,
Barb Baker, Paige McGrath, Deb Gaskill