City of Monroe issued the following announcement on Oct. 1.
Dear Friends,
It is with heartfelt sadness and disappointment that we have to announce the cancellation of the 2020 Warbirds Over Monroe Air Show.
While we were optimistic that the Governor’s Executive Order moving North Carolina to Phase 3 would make provisions for us to operate the show safely and within specified parameters, the order failed to increase mass gathering capacities at outdoor events. Our legal and leadership team has pored over the order and determined that the City of Monroe would be in violation of it should we proceed with the event.
We are all at what seems a breaking point dealing with the ramifications of this pandemic, and we wholeheartedly support a return to things we hold dear. However, we also understand the inherent risks and dangers involved. Our goal was to have an outdoor event that people could choose to attend if they felt safe, providing entertainment and a much-needed escape.
To our supporters: We tried our best to continue our tradition of education, entertainment, and honoring our veterans through our show this year. Like so many in the air show industry, we will be looking forward to a bigger and brighter 2021 when we can once again celebrate aviation history and heritage. We are dedicated to delivering a safe and unique quality experience for all of our guests, and we will ensure that next year’s show will be one of the best we have ever had.
To those who have purchased tickets online: We will be fully refunding your purchase. We ask that you be patient as we work through the ticketing system.
To our performers who were scheduled to perform: We say thank you for your willingness to share your passion with others, and we know we can count on each and every one of you for next year!
To our volunteers and staff: Thank you for doing all you can during the daily craziness and uncertainty. Without you, we cannot have this show and certainly not at the high standards our guests have come to enjoy.
Thank you all again for understanding our situation as we are in a difficult position. We were truly looking forward to Warbirds Over Monroe 2020.
Sincerely,
Pete Hovanec and the entire Warbirds Over Monroe Air Show Team
Original source: https://www.monroenc.org/Community/About-Monroe/News/ID/1148/2020-Warbirds-Over-Monroe-Canceled
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