SLI's Concert Season in DoubtDue to the Corona-virus

Official conversations and neighborly exchanges continue to cast doubt on whether or not it is wise or even legal, at this point, to put on events which include more than 10 people. This is especially true if the event is being offered to the general public. Concerts usually draw between 60 and 80 and most are from the surrounding communities with only a small percentage drawing on SLI residents.

The program committee of SLI came up with an idea to move the indoor concerts from Epworth Hall to Bishop Burt Park where family groups could be easily spread apart by a 6-foot span from each other. One of the questions that arise is how much louder would the bands have to crank it up in order to be adequately heard throughout the Park area? What happens in case of rain or heavy wind? This would require at least one tent to protect the band equipment in case of inclement weather.

Questions also arise for the smaller venues which are still in the category of 10 or more, especially such as the Saturday morning residential breakfasts (60+), Desserts on the Dock (twice hit 30), and even a busy night on the Blue Dock for the Sunset Club (12-15). Opinions are being gathered by--and for--the SLI Trustees in order to prepare for a final decision, although the decision may be out of the hands of local groups and may come about through the Governor's office. 

Some interpret Gov. Cuomo's news conferences as having already stated that there will be no festivals, concerts, or other large gatherings this summer. If that is actually the case, the decision may already be at hand. On the flip side, there is considerable doubt that the general public will be ready to get cozy with one another in a concert audience or even comfortable with a public event that manages to keep a 6-foot distance between people. There is still existing considerable worry and even fear about public circulation.