Dear Rotarian Friends:
Your Board of Directors, which is full of diverse voices and opinions has impressed me all year for being thoughtful and open with their views. Last Friday after a full discussion in which everyone participated, they voted to lift the restrictions on Rotary attendance, effective May 25. The adhoc Rotary Public Health Safety Committee of Dr’s. Harris and Lasser and Oklahoma Hospitals Associations President Patti Davis were also consulted and concurred. The CDC elimination of a mask requirement and social distancing for our COVID-19 vaccinated population and the low 7-day average of now only 35 new cases a day in Oklahoma City and County, motivated the Board to act.
The mechanics of food guarantees and other logistics did not allow us to open for this week’s meeting although we raised the limit on reservations to above 140. However next week, May 25, when we gather to hear from Gene Rainbolt about Oklahoma’s economy and future, we will be open for all to attend.
This has been a long path. Since March of 2020, our Board of Directors have been working diligently to ensure the safest possible meeting conditions given the many challenges our world has faced. From our initial Zoom meetings, to Live Stream….first with no audience and then various in-person meeting attendance caps, you’ve stayed the course and have been patient and understanding through the many transitions.
What does this action mean specifically? Reservations are no longer required to attend our lunch meetings, visitors and guests are welcome, and we will begin tracking attendance, so perfect attenders take note! If you are not yet vaccinated and wish to attend an in-person meeting, masks are recommended for your safety.
For those members who have faithfully joined us online, our livestream which has been well received will continue.
We made it. Rotary Oklahoma City survived its second pandemic in its storied 111 year history. Thank you for your great cooperation and record setting generosity throughout this year. I hope to see you at our next meeting!
All the best to you.
David Walters | President 2020-2021
Rotary Club of Oklahoma City, Club 29