We are thrilled to gather again after nearly 3 years apart! Things are decidedly different than the last time we all got together in Austin in 2019. 

As we gather in Seattle for ComNet22 we want to provide the safest in-person experience for ComNet attendees, our team, and our host community as possible. We know everyone is in a different place (some of us can’t wait to hug, while others are ready for fist bumps). 

We’re going to be leaning into the culture and custom of our host city of Seattle: to be careful and cautious regarding health and safety. We will be following CDC guidelines and King County (Seattle) policies (and will continue to update you as information becomes available). 

We’re asking each of you to please join us in taking precautions to keep each other safe. For everyone’s safety and peace of mind, we will implement the following safety measures during ComNet22:

• Vaccine Verification (registered attendees will receive a text message from 42Chat in mid-September with instructions on how to upload your vaccine documentation.  If you do not receive the text message, you will also have an opportunity to upload your documentation via a QR code.)

• Mask Policy (please wear a mask unless you are actively eating, drinking, or presenting) 

Given the evolving nature of the pandemic, we will continue to monitor any changes in public health guidelines and protocols, and there is a chance we might need to implement additional measures to ensure everyone’s health and safety.

VACCINE VERIFICATION

In order to pick up your name badge at registration, you’ll have to have gone through our vaccination verification process by showing a valid photo ID and vaccination card via 42Chat. We define fully vaccinated as 2 weeks after receiving your last shot for Pfizer, Moderna, or the Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine. 

You will receive a text message in mid-September from 42Chat requesting your vaccination documentation. You can learn more about 42Chat here.

To create a gathering that brings our community together as safely as possible, we’re asking everyone to wear a mask inside unless you are actively eating, drinking, or presenting.  Over 70% of you requested indoor masking when we surveyed this community this summer. We hear you. So while state and local mask mandates have been relaxing or eliminated entirely in many places, the fact is, the COVID pandemic has proven to be a real cuss cuss cussin’ cuss. And ever-changing.  Since it’s not possible to predict future spread patterns, we will be maintaining our mask requirement.

The bumper sticker version of this? Gratitude. Not attitude. Mask up y’all.

INDOOR AIR/VENTILATION

The Hyatt Regency Seattle meeting spaces have a state of the art ventilation system that uses charcoal pre-filters and MERV13 filters that are efficient and effective at trapping airborne particles (including viruses). The hotel also injects fresh outside air into the function spaces (while maintaining comfortable temperatures).

WHAT TO EXPECT (As of August 2022)

• Proof of vaccination verified before registration onsite.

• Mask policy unless actively eating, drinking, or presenting. 

• Hand sanitizing stations available throughout the venue. 

• Masks available at the registration desk. 

• Effective and efficient indoor air filtration systems throughout the hotel. 

• Ballroom chairs spaced out. 

• Fewer chairs placed at tables during meal functions. 

• Group will be divided during lunch and grab-and-go options will be available. 

• Welcome Reception will have both indoor and outdoor space.