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Chamber Connection SA NTA M A RIA VA LLE Y CH A MB E R MO NTHLY NE WS LE T TE R | M AY 202 1
Gathering Again: Updated State Guidelines Allow For In-Person Meetings & Events With vaccinations on the rise and COVID cases in Santa Barbara County continuing to decline, the light at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to shine brighter, and with it people are looking to gather again in person. “As vaccinations become more widely available, we hear more businesses and local residents asking about in person meetings and events,” explained Glenn Morris, President/CEO for the Santa Maria Valley Chamber. “Whether it be a ribbon cutting for a small business or one of our monthly mixers, we continue to hear an increased desire for people to transition back to meeting face to face, instead of on zoom.” Recognizing the state’s progress in turning a corner in the COVID pandemic, the California Department of Public Health recently released updated guidelines for many types of private group events and indoor performances. Santa Barbara County joined the State in making these guidelines effective locally as of April 15th, 2021 through a public health order. Highlights for private events and group meetings based on the current orange tier include: • Indoor capacity for meetings is limited to 150. All guests must be either fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to the event, or show proof of a negative COVID test
The Santa Maria Inn has taken steps to adhere to updated local guidelines and is ready to safely host events again, including outdoor weddings on their scenic patio. within the past 72 hours Outdoor capacity for meetings is limited to 100, or up to 300 only if all guests are vaccinated or tested • Additional details on the new guidelines can be found at bit.ly/ CAEventsCOVID For local hotels and event spaces, the opportunity to host in person events again provides a much-needed boost to an industry hit hard by the pandemic. “We have been anxiously awaiting the opportunity to once again safely host •
meetings, weddings and other events in person,” said Phil Beitler, Director of Sales for the Radisson Hotel in Santa Maria. “The updated guidelines released by the State was welcome news to our business. We are excited to welcome back guests for meeting and events in a safe and enjoyable way.” Beitler says their hotel is following all state guidelines and that pandemic-level sanitation measures are still being adhered to. “We are currently booking meetings of smaller groups, (under 40 persons), with Continued on p.2
WHAT ' S INSIDE : M AY 2021 ISSUE
Young Professional of the Month p. 2
Leadership Santa Maria Valley p. 3
Get Your Business Online Program p. 8
