In-Person Meetings at St. Luke’s – RSVP required

Dear Rotarian Friends:

First, let me just say that as the pandemic is intensifying in Oklahoma, my wish is that you and your families are staying safe and healthy.

We returned to in-person meetings in late June with the hope that our Oklahoma and Oklahoma City infection rates for Covid 19 would decline.  Our St. Luke’s partners arranged for the in-person meeting within our safety adjustments and provided us a convenient live streaming option that presents a professional and easily accessed alternative for those uncomfortable with in person meetings.

Unfortunately, we now have a significant increase in coronavirus infections in our community. We have organized a Rotary Safety Committee that joined me in conversations with the City County Health Department.  As you know the City of Oklahoma City has now passed additional requirements for the use of masks and for the limitation of public gatherings, as recommended by City County Health Department.

As a result our Tuesday meeting format will again shift to ensure our meetings provide a safer environment for our members consistent with the new regulations.

Next Tuesday’s in-person meetings will be capped at 25 persons and reservations will be required. Office staff is evaluating how we can ensure a fair rotation of members who wish to participate at St. Luke’s. Additionally, face masks will now be required for our in-person attenders. Face masks will be available and provided by the club for anyone who does not have one available.

The board discussed and approved these changes during our Thursday meeting.  Rather than go to full Zoom meetings the board agreed that a small audience with the normal presentations will give those joining on the live stream a better experience.  This is far from ideal, but the Board and your officers are working hard to continue to provide the best week to week programs in Oklahoma.  I do ask that if you like many of us struggle with the technology and would like some technical advice or training, please contact the office or me so that we can make you the envy of your kids and or grandkids.

For each of you who are participating online in real time, you will have the opportunity to not only report your attendance but to choose, if you desire, a credit for our pro-rated meal cost.

Our Thursday breakfast meeting has also been cancelled at the request of Quail Creek Country Club.   Please pay particular attention to the website and our weekly newsletters for updates.

Thank you for your patience.  The officers and Board are considering how best we can help our community during this challenging time.  I ask for your prayers for all those affected by the disease and its consequences.  We will meet this challenge together and find a way to continue as best we can our Rotary traditions and good work.

Be safe.

David Walters

President