MESSAGE FROM TAMA HOLVE

As you know, our industry is in peril. While many of us have worked through any number of challenges throughout our time, from 9/11 to commission cuts to Y2k, nothing compares to this.
 
Today, and with support from ASTA, our industry is launching a “Call-Your-Legislator” campaign to preserve our side of the industry. Our goal is to promote our visibility within the government, advocate for relief for all sectors within our industry, and ensure that we have a seat at the table.
 
For our US campaign our target is 5,000 – 7,000 touch points (emails and phone calls combined). This is being done in combination with a social media program to launch tonight and over the weekend for the same effect, all targeting markets for key legislators.
 
Right now Congress is in reconciliation for the massive economic stimulus package. If we are going to have any impact, there is no more time to act. You must start now. We expect by Monday evening or Tuesday at the latest the bill will exit reconciliation and Congress will head home.
 
I ask to lend your hand and make some calls and send some emails to help protect our industry.
 
Attached are talking points and email phone scripts that can be used, as well as a copy of the ASTA Relief Request for $7.7Bilion in Grants as well as $7Billion in loans. You can go to the ASTA page here to make the process easier.
 
The travel industry requires travel agents to operate efficiently and effectively. Each of us has seen the concern and fear by all travelers, yet during this extraordinary time our clients time and again sing all of our praises. This is no accident; time and again you make the impossible happen.
 
We are all on this together, and together we will succeed,
 
Tama Holve
            SoCAL ASTA Chapter President
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