Dear SMO Supporter,

In late February, given the escalating realities of Covid-19, we made the difficult decision to postpone our annual SMAA Membership Meeting from March to April. We knew the future of this virus was uncertain, but it at that time it was almost inconceivable to predict how quickly the virus would spread and how deadly it would be. Clearly, we will not be holding the meeting in April either. We wait till our world has returned to some semblance of “normal” and will advise you on the new date ASAP.

In the meantime, here are some updates on what our GA community is up to, and how you may be able to help.

ACTIVE PILOTS WITH AIRCRAFT
In our last email, we noted that if you are an active pilot with an aircraft, please consider serving with a local public benefit flying organization such as Angel Flight West, CAL DART, EVAC, Mission Flight, or check out the Air Care Alliance Directory of groups.

BLOOD DONATIONS
In the shadow of COVID-19, another crisis looms that you may not be aware of, and this is a severe blood shortage. Per the American Red Cross, there is desperate need for blood for hospitals and cancer treatment centers. Please give blood if you are able. You will find information on blood donation in your area at www.redcrossblood.org

CAL DART SAN DIEGO OPERATION MEDICAL SHIELD
SMAA’s former Vice President Dave Hopkins is working with Paul Marshall at the California Disaster Airlift Response Team (CalDART) on an important CAL DART initiative to get much needed personal protective equipment (PPE’s) to health workers. There are many tasks that you can do from from home. www.caldart.org

The SMAA will continue its work to defend the Santa Monica Airport from the forces who wish to see it closed & re-developed, and to advocate for its users and businesses. If you are involved in a related effort or are making a difference during this pandemic, we want to hear from you and would be happy to share your work with our membership if you wish.

It’s our fervent hope that this virus has spared you and your loved ones. As things progress, we look forward to seeing you again at our Membership Meeting when we can all be together again.

Stay safe, stay healthy and stay in touch!

Sincerely,

Santa Monica Airport Association