ConGregate

Vaccinations are picking up. More and more of our guests and members are posting on social media that they are getting vaccinated. Given the current rate of vaccination (currently ~40% of NC, SC and VA have already received at least one dose, ~50% of those 18+ years of age), we are expecting to hold the convention in person… or, at least expect the hotel to hold us to our contract, thus forcing us to hold the con, barring any changes. 

One other point, the hotel has the option to move us across the street to the Benton Convention Center (which they manage), where they could host our standard membership numbers in a larger venue, thus meeting the state’s capacity limits. Having said that – there is no guarantee that will happen, or be necessary, in July.

So, in short, we're preparing to hold the con in person.

Based on the above, we are recommending everyone who can get vaccinated, do so before July. It is the best way we can ensure everyone remains safe. That said, we are still expecting NC to still require masks, and other safety precautions, and we will work with the hotel to implement those in the best way possible.

As always, we are continuing to monitor the situation and will be making a final decision on the convention as we get a bit closer to the summer.