Dear Colleague:
We continue to carefully monitor and assess the wildfire situation in Los Angeles and its potential impact on our meeting. As of now, the meeting will continue as scheduled.
The STS Board of Directors will meet this week to evaluate the facts, hear from surgeons on the ground in LA, and review all options. We are mindful of attendee safety and health concerns regarding the meeting and will consider the wide range of input we are receiving in our decisions.
We are in ongoing communication with officials in LA. At this time, the convention center remains open, conferences are currently being conducted, and professional sporting events and the Grammy Awards are all moving forward in the downtown area where our meeting will be held.
Again, the safety and health of our members remain our top priority. We are actively monitoring the proximity of fires, as well as air and water quality. According to officials, the next 48 hours will be critical as high winds and dry conditions increase the risk of additional fires.
While the decision regarding the STS Annual Meeting is significant, we understand and appreciate it is minor compared to the pain and loss experienced by so many LA residents. Our hearts and prayers continue to be with those who have lost everything, from homes to businesses, to family and friends.
We will continue to update you as events on the ground evolve, and our Board has the opportunity to meet and discuss.
Jennifer C. Romano, MD, MS
President
