DSSG - we have a Vaccine Mandate for this fall

Further discussion about the Covid-19 vaccine mandate - Plain and simple: it makes good sense. The large majority of people, particularly those over age 40 have gotten the vaccine. Additionally study after study and report after report do show that while, unfortunately, the vaccine in some cases does not prevent one from contracting Covid, or transmitting it to others, it does prevent severe cases. Better than 90% of people that have to go on ventilators in hospitals have not received a Covid 19 vaccine.

Over a month ago I did send out a request to regular attendees of the Deep South Star Gaze to comment on what they thought about a mandate that we institute a policy where to attend one would have to show (upon arrival) vaccine proof. This request was sent out to approximately 20 of our long time attendees as well as to all who have served the DSSG in some way.  For those I could not reach by email, I called on the phone. While the response back was not overwhelming in numbers, everyone who responded at that time were in favor of the vaccine mandate. Some did not attend last year out of concern about Covid and because there was no vaccine at that time. Some indicated that they would now attend if we had the vaccine mandate. We now have the mandate in place as does the Texas Star Party, the El Dorado Star Party, and perhaps the Peach State Star Party. Their website says - "The staff and volunteers will be adhering to CDC guidelines and attendees should expect to do the same."

As a private event we will continue to do everything to assure the safety of all attendees. Hopefully everyone understands our rationale.  In addition one of our hosts, Donald, the brother of Carol, is on a transplant list and because of his current treatment, he is immunocompromised.  We owe it to him to do everything we can to protect him.

Barry Simon