Based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Guidance

Large events and mass gatherings can contribute to the spread of COVID-19 in the United States via travelers who attend these events and introduce the virus to new communities. Examples of large events and mass gatherings include conferences, festivals, parades, concerts, sporting events, weddings, and other types of assemblies. These events can be planned not only by organizations and communities but also by individuals.

Therefore, CDC, in accordance with its guidance for large events and mass gatherings, recommends that for the next 8 weeks, organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.

Events of any size should only be continued if they can be carried out with adherence to guidelines for protecting vulnerable populations, hand hygiene, and social distancing. When feasible, organizers could modify events to be virtual.

This recommendation does not apply to the day to day operation of organizations such as schools, institutes of higher learning, or businesses. This recommendation is made in an attempt to reduce introduction of the virus into new communities and to slow the spread of infection in communities already affected by the virus. This recommendation is not intended to supersede the advice of local public health officials.

The Florida ATSA board met this morning and decided it is in the best interest of all to cancel the 2020 Florida ATSA Conference and Annual Meeting. Initially, we considered re-scheduling to a later date but due to many unknowns it was decided to cancel the 2020 conference and reconvene in the Spring of 2021.

George Deitchman – Conference Chair

Hello, Members,

The Board just met and we are watching the virus just like I know you are. Here’s what you need to know:

• We are not cancelling the conference just yet. We notice that Disney and others are closing for two weeks. Depending on if the spread is reduced, we may be in a very different spot in two weeks.
• You can get out of the conference and the hotel room rental if you wish. Brooke told me the hotel will give refunds. We will refund the conference fee if you wish. So you can still sign up and not feel “on the hook.”
• At this point we are still looking at doing the conference as planned. We are also looking at teleconferencing options.
• We will be looking at this each week, and we’ll give you weekly updates.
• This too will pass.
• Take care of yourselves!

George Deitchman – Conference Chair