Safety Plan
While the COVID-19 pandemic has eased considerably, transmission is still occurring and nearly 100 people are dying daily in the United States. Large gatherings can pose a special risk, especially when attendees are traveling from locations with elevated community levels of the virus.
That being said, conferences and events are being successfully held without causing outbreaks. The OLF Conference has therefore decided not to impose additional requirements for vaccination or face coverings on attendees beyond what is required by applicable authorities. We will require all attendees to complete a self-screening before coming into the event space.
By “applicable authorities,” we mean the government (City of Columbus, Franklin County, State of Ohio, and United States governments) and the Hilton hotel where the event is being held. Please note that as the Hilton is located on the site of the Greater Columbus Convention Center, it is subject to regulations from the convention authority and county which may go beyond requirements imposed on private businesses.
It is our understanding that there are no current requirements for vaccination or face coverings to attend events at the Hilton hotel. This may change if circumstances worsen, so we will keep tabs on the situation and update this page as necessary.
We understand that some people may be uncomfortable with in-person events, or may be unable or unwilling to observe the requirements below. In this case, you are welcome to join us virtually by registering for the Online Only Pass. Anyone who refuses to comply with the requirements that are in place at the time of the event may be removed and will not receive a refund.
BY PURCHASING AN IN-PERSON TICKET AND ATTENDING THE OLF CONFERENCE, YOU ARE AGREEING TO BEAR ALL RISKS OF CONTRACTING COVID-19 OR ANY OTHER HEALTH CONDITION AND ANY ASSOCIATED COSTS. YOU AGREE TO HOLD THE OHIO LINUXFEST CORPORATION, EVENT STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS, AND HOTEL PERSONNEL HARMLESS IN CONNECTION WITH YOUR ATTENDANCE.
Attendee Guidelines
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All attendees will be required to perform a self-screening for symptoms and risk factors. Please do not come if you are ill. |
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We strongly recommend that all attendees wear a mask covering their nose and mouth. We will have some available at the registration desk if you forget yours. |
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We strongly recommend that all attendees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and receive the seasonal influenza shot. Talk to your physician on the best course of vaccinations for you prior to travel and attending large gatherings. You can find a provider at vaccines.gov. |
Travel Planning
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If you have a medical condition that puts you at greater risk (such as immunocompromised persons or those with respiratory ailments), you should consider attending virtually instead. Even if your medical condition does not relate to infectious disease (such as heart problems), take note that hospital beds and ICU beds may be limited or unavailable due to COVID. Statistics of bed use in area hospitals are available from the Columbus Dispatch. |
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As well as a venue partner, we recommend the Hilton Columbus Downtown as a lodging option. The Hilton’s cleanliness and safety protocols include frequent cleaning and disinfection of public areas as well as use of filtration, air ionizers, and ultraviolet light in HVAC systems to remove/deactivate microbes. |
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Covered parking is available at the Vine Street Garage and the South Garage of the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Those who stay at the Hilton may take advantage of the discounted valet parking or self-park at one of the garages at the posted rate. |
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The CDC provides safety recommendations for vaccinated travelers. Depending on your travel origin, you may want to consider scheduling testing before and after your trip. |
At The Event
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While most seating will be traditional theater-style, we will provide some socially distanced seating. You should also maintain distance in other areas of the event. |
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You must respect the personal space of others. Consider limited contact gestures such as elbow bumps and waves. |
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You may consider attending virtually for some or all of the event to reduce risk of exposure. We are trying to make the virtual experience fulfilling. Not everyone is ready to attend in person. It is a personal choice if on-premises attendance is right for you. |
Attendance Policy
Self-Screening
You are to complete a self-screening before you attend the event (no more than 24 hours in advance).
We do not want you to attend sick. We will cancel your registration and offer a refund if you indicate that you are unwell.
Hotel Accommodations
We hope that you can stay with us at the Hilton Columbus Downtown. Please remember that should in-person activities be cancelled, your hotel reservation will not automatically be cancelled as well. The hotel has a 48-hour cancellation policy if doing so via your reservation email. After that time, you may call the front desk and explain the circumstances at (614) 384-8600.