Cape Cod Doesn’t Need a Vaccination Passport [PHIL-OSOPHY]

Not far from here is one of America's best known vacation spots, Cape Cod. From everyone I contacted, it was a full house from Provincetown to Bourne over the Memorial Day rainy weekend. That's so good to hear!

I wonder, though, if any of the tourists brought a vaccine passport or some proof of coronavirus vaccination? I ask this because Cape Senator Julian Cyr publicly stated if people want to go to a dance club or nightlife that they should have a vaccination card, or at least a photo of it, handy. Not only Cyr, but other Cape Cod club owners suggested that when visiting the Cape this summer, along with your sunscreen – definitely not needed over this past weekend – bring along your mask and proof of your vaccination.

None of my contacts knew of any businesses that required proof, but media reports say the Boatslip in Provincetown sent out notices, telling their customers that certain events will require proof of vaccination before admitting anyone. At one of our favorite places, the Lobster Trap in Bourne, the tables were full, masks were off and nobody asked for vaccination proof.

Get our free mobile app

I just don't sense an outcry for an organized movement for a vaccination passport on Cape Cod. Nantucket businesses may be an entirely different story, though.

I do think it's smart to take a front and back photo of your vaccination card, more so in case you misplace it. But I'm almost totally opposed to the government mandating a passport. I don't feel that's in the cards, but there is a caveat in my opposing government involvement.

In simple terms, I support the federal government demand seeing proof of vaccination from every traveler entering the United States from many distant lands. The European Union, China and Japan are working on their own digital vaccination certificates for cross boarder travel.

Do you think I'm vacillating and oscillating at the same time when I say no to the passport for fully vaccinated folks in this country, but yes to all wayfarers entering from around the world?

Well, like the beverage named after him, half iced tea and half lemonade, I think I'll "git me" a cold Arnold Palmer.

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.