We’re just a week away from the reunion, and we’re so excited about the turnout! We also hope that, amid all the anticipation, you will be mindful in this contagious environment.
Celebrating a 50-year reunion means we have all fully qualified to be in the most vulnerable age group, and among us are several classmates with additional health concerns. As a community, we take care of each other, and the safety of this event really is up to all who attend.
It is impossible to remove all risk of COVID infection in a gathering of this size; each of the 140+ people attending will be assuming the responsibility for deciding that this is a risk worth taking. But to help achieve the safest environment, the committee is making the following recommendations:
Please take either a COVID PCR test no more than 48 hours before the event or a COVID rapid test the day of the event. We are trusting that you will complete this task, and let’s go ahead and state the obvious: If you test positive — or if you exhibit any symptoms of a contagious disease — please DON’T come.
At-home test kits are available for free at the Riley County Health Department (2030 Tecumseh Road) and Manhattan Public Library (629 Poyntz) during regular hours of operation. We will also have a limited number of rapid tests available both Friday and Saturday night.
Besides testing, the CDC recommends the most effective way to protect yourself and others in group settings is to be fully vaccinated (including up-to-date booster) and to wear a mask (an N95 and KN95 are best). Mask wear is optional at the reunion, but don’t interpret that as a discouragement. There will assuredly be mask-wearers among us, and wear one if it makes you feel more comfortable.
Just to remind everyone: Outdoor spaces will be available both nights so you can attend without being confined to an enclosed space.
As we prepare to gather, the committee has every hope that, together, we can have a successful — and safe — reunion.
No comments:
Post a Comment