03/14/2020
(From email sent out on 3/13/2020)
NY Wing,
In light of the recent state-of-emergency declared by Governor Cuomo due to the COVID-19 virus, and information that we are receiving from our National Guard partners within the state, I am ordering the suspension of all activities within the Wing until 1 April. This is not a decision that was made lightly, but I feel this situation needs to be taken very seriously. The health and well-being of our members and their families is more important than normal business.
This is effective immediately, and includes all scheduled CAP activities, to include Cadet Orientation Flights. I realize that this will put a damper on flying and awards banquets, but for the safety of the members of NY Wing, it is the right thing to do.
The Wing will continue to be ready to respond to NHQ-CAP and First Air Force taskings, and support those as required, while exposing as few members as necessary.
Many of you have inquired about the canceling Wing Conference. I assure you that it is on our radar, the Command Staff and I converse about it almost daily. At this time, the conference will proceed as scheduled, but we will closely monitor the outbreak and make decisions that keep the health and well-being of our members in the forefront. We have over 6-weeks until the conference, so canceling at this time is premature.
Please use your chain-of-command if there are any questions and/or concerns. I will address them as I get them.
We will evaluate the severity of this viral outbreak at the end of the month, and make a decision on whether or not to terminate or extend the suspension.
Be Well,
Col Carello
New York Wing Civil Air Patrol
nyw.cap.gov