Despite many new initiatives during 2004, you will note elsewhere in this annual report that the association still completed its fiscal year with a modest surplus. That is always welcome news.

While we were sad to see a couple of staff members leave to pursue other career opportunities, we were happy to welcome two very capable and professional individuals to the CSA office team during 2004. Colin Ellis, our research and communication officer, brings a wealth of experience from both government and the private sector. Sharon Beckstead, our new member services coordinator and administrative assistant, has served in similar roles with other membershipbased associations. Their arrival both complements as well as completes a very dedicated and experienced team in Toronto.

This past year saw many horrific scenes of devastation in Florida with not one but four hurricanes. This sparked a flood of media inquiries for the association. Between the president, individual directors, and the CSA staff, we responded to over 100 separate media inquiries including radio and television appearances on both local and national stations.

This past spring, as part of our regular segment on the Sunday Showcase (CHWO Radio AM 740), the president offered a special new member signup promotion for listeners. This initiative resulted in over 300 separate calls to the CSA by listeners wishing to become members.

This past fall advertisements were placed in several key print magazines, and supported by individual directors conducting grassroots presentations to target membership audiences in Ontario and British Columbia. Together there is truly strength in numbers when advocating to government on behalf of all members.

In 2004 the CSA released several new publications as an enhancement to its regular benefits and services offerings. The mailing of 2005 membership cards included a new CSA Member Handbook outlining, in detail, many of our valueadded benefits of CSA membership.

An original and unique publication for the association was the CSA Travellers' Information Guide that will be updated and expanded on an ongoing basis. The association has received many complimentary calls, letters and e-mails from grateful members receiving this important and timely travel document.

Another original publication, available immediately on the snowbird website and in hard-copy with the 2005 membership renewal campaign, is the CSA Travellers' Checklist. This comprehensive "getting ready to go" guide contains invaluable information that was collected with the assistance of a wide range of experienced snowbird travellers. This will no doubt become the snowbird travellers' checklist.

In closing, I would be remiss not to make mention of the tireless dedication and commitment to the CSA by the members and spouses of the board of directors. At a time in life and professional career when many people contemplate slowing down and enjoying more leisure time, I can assure you the association is truly in the good hands of people who are committed to seeing the CSA move forward for both the present as well as future generations of travelling Canadians.

Lawrence E. Barker
Executive Director