Hello aerial community, Thank you for your calls and emails inquiring about our reopening date. We miss all of you and understand that you’re looking forward to coming back to the studio. I wanted to update you on my research and some of the things I’ve been learning during our hibernation. I’ve been communicating with aerial studio owners and circus schools across the US about what reopening may entail. We cannot eliminate the spread of COVID-19, we can only reduce the risk as much as possible. As a business owner who is very concerned about safety and liability, this reality still makes me uncomfortable. I do not want to put anyone at risk. Gyms in San Antonio are allowed to reopen with a limited capacity and new health protocols on May 18, 2020. However, we are not a typical gym and there are many circus specific issues that must be worked through. For instance, according to the Texas Minimum Standard Health Protocols, patrons must “wear gloves that fully cover from the wrist to the fingers while exercising.” This is not a safe or practical protocol for aerial work, but Aerial Horizon could be cited and fined if we violate this mandate. The items below are not comprehensive, but I wanted to give you an idea of the overwhelming situation we’re in. Each item opens its own can of worms as I sort through safety vs. liability vs. finances vs. practical applications specifically related to what we do: – Risk management chart update – Policy updates (PPE, spotting, COVID-19 specific injury care) – Procedure updates – Studio floor plan (clear entry, exit, space between students, and sanitizing stations) – Health survey check in – Contact tracing management – Updated cleaning procedures – Staff training with new procedures – Waiver update including a COVID-19 specific assumption of risk – Ventilation/air purification – Record keeping – Liability insurance – Phased reopening plan – Financial timelines with reduced income The American Circus Educators just released COVID-19 resources for circus organizations. If you would like further information, click here. It will be many months before could we reopen. The safety of my staff and students has been and will always be my number one priority. I cannot in good conscience put anyone at risk as a result of coming to Aerial Horizon. If you are in a position where it is possible to support our studio, please email us and let us know that you would like to donate your remaining classes/studio credits to our emergency fund. Although classes are on pause, our rent, utilities, and taxes are still due. You can also donate to us directly through PayPal or Venmo. Your generosity would help us greatly. I appreciate your continued patience and compassion during this challenging time. Stay safe, Julia Langenberg Aerial Horizon owner