COVID RESPONSE

ASTE Covid Information Page

In North Carolina, we are experiencing increased numbers in Covid cases, but are still keeping an eye on the situation, hoping the current surge in cases will die down soon. Our Governor announced he is leaving any mandates to be decided on the local level, and our city did choose to implement a mask mandate effective August 17th. The hotel is hopeful that private events will be able to carry on without concern and until we hear otherwise, we are moving forward with the ASTE 2021 as planned. If we are still under a mask requirement September 24-25th, I remain hopeful that enough of our attendees will be ready to get back to in-person training and support the organizations that work hard to provide it. Our registration numbers reflect a great deal of enthusiasm to return to live events, and we too are ready to make it happen.

Masks: The CDC’s recent recommendations state that ALL of our event participants (staff, attendees, sponsors, and speakers) should wear a mask while indoors at the event – and especially when in close proximity to one another (with the exception of eating and drinking). The city of Cary, where the event is held, is currently under a mask mandate due to the sharp rise in Covid-19 cases in our area. You can view the mandate here to learn about the requirements and exemptions.

Hand Cleaning
Hand sanitizer stations will be available throughout the event. In addition, we encourage our attendees to wash their hands frequently, as we all know that thorough hand washing can reduce the spread of many viruses including COVID-19.

  • If You Are Sick
    If you have a temperature, are showing any potential symptoms of COVID-19, have tested positive for COVID-19, or have been in close contact with anyone that has tested positive for COVID-19 within 14 days of the event then you need to stay home and request a refund. If you don’t feel well, please stay home. 
  • Potential COVID-19 symptoms include:
    • Fever or chills
    • Cough
    • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
    • Fatigue
    • Muscle or body aches
    • Headache
    • New loss of taste or smell
    • Sore throat
    • Congestion or runny nose
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Diarrhea
  • Physical Touching is Discouraged (Handshakes, Hugs, or Fist Bumps)
    While many at the event are vaccinated and/or not concerned about the health risks that physical touch may present, we request that attendees, speakers, staff and sponsors respect a “no-touch” policy at the event.
  • Seating and Spacing
    Seating will be in line with the recommended distance between attendees as determined by the venue and its local government. We may limit the number of passes sold as necessary to meet such requirements.
  • Food and Beverage
    We will work with our event venue to make sure food and beverages are served in the safest way possible, following the recommendations of the Embassy Suites staff.
  • Vaccinations
    While we strongly encourage our guests to be vaccinated, we are not planning on requiring proof of vaccination.