Dear chapter members,

I work for a variety of organizations who are all figuring out how to plan for 2021/22 during this still-uncertain time in public health. Some are tentatively reopening; some are planning to tentatively reopen; and some are firmly welcoming back in-person music. It’s a challenge to adapt to changing information and policies, particularly when the music is often run by and for groups of volunteers. They do not always pivot quickly!

One challenge at the Episcopal church where I am music director, is reminding folks that there are unvaccinated souls all around them—children under twelve. I am constantly on the lookout for useful language regarding mask policies, and I plan to appropriate a couple of sentences from a recent email from PLU’s Office of the President:

This week, the CDC, Gov. Jay Inslee, and the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department announced their recommendations that individuals who are vaccinated mask indoors in some circumstances to help mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 Delta variant in Washington, including in Pierce County.

As community members concerned about our role in public health overall, we encourage vaccinated Lutes to follow this guidance and mask up whenever you are in public indoor spaces or are unaware of the vaccination status of those around you. Masks add another layer of protection to what vaccination has already given you, so whether you’re vaccinated or not, masking up helps prevent transmission.

Your AGO board is fervently hoping to have in-person meetings this year, but of course it depends on public health guidelines. We have some great ideas for the program year, and will publicize them when we know for sure what is safe! For now: please save the date for a Welcome Back Picnic, in the lovely garden of David Dahl’s home in Parkland. I hope to see you on Monday, Sept 13th, between 4:30 and 7:30 PM. Until then—wishing a safe, and lovely, rest of the summer!