Over the previous weeks, the Club’s Board of Directors has been assessing the COVID-19 situation in Arizona and would be making a decision regarding whether or not to proceed with our annual convention in Sedona in October. Key to this decision would be the status of restrictions the governor instituted that prohibits many activities in the state, including gatherings of more than 50 people.
Unfortunately, the the latest update on this emergency order no longer predicts an end date to these restrictions. This makes it all but impossible to finalize plans for the convention and puts the Club at significant financial risk.
As a result, the Board has made the difficult decision to postpone the Sedona event until October 2021.
It’s extremely disappointing that we will miss out on gathering at such a spectacular venue this year. A lot of planning and hard work has gone into making this a convention to remember, and we wanted our members to be able to be able to enjoy the full Sedona experience, while still feeling confident about their health and well-being.
However, current circumstances cast considerable doubt on our ability to enjoy many of our planned activities in the Sedona area:
- The Blazing M Ranch remains closed and isn't confident it will open before 2021
- Parks and attractions, including Antelope Canyon, remain closed
- Indoor dining is restricted, and social distancing is required even between tables outdoors
The good news is that plans are already underway to re-book the event for the first weekend of October 2021. The hotel has agreed to roll over everyone's existing reservations from this fall to next fall. Plus, members who weren't able to make reservations at the primary hotel this year will find there are currently additional rooms available for next year.
An update on the 2021 convention will be posted on the Club website just as soon as the dates are finalized.
We’ll definitely miss connecting with everyone this year and look forward to returning to normal for next year. Until then, stay safe and keep the greasy side down.
Kurtis Arnold (Club President)