Dear Members,

I would like to thank those members who helped play an important role in electing the new Board Members to the NYSTRA Board for the 2004-2005 term. Voting is a privilege and opportunity to have a say in how your organization is run. Serving on the board is a privilege and an opportunity to share your knowledge and talents in the service of your peers in the field of Therapeutic Recreation. This year we had more nominations than in previous elections, which speaks well of the desire to move forward in the profession and help others. I would like to thank all members who ran for the board positions and congratulate the winners. Two present board members, Diane Anderson and Anne Pellison, were re-elected for another term. Three new comers were also elected: Magalys Ciccosanti, Judy Isaksen and Charles Sourby. These five members will be bringing a lot of experience, knowledge and talent to the board. I wish them much success as they continue together to work on the services the present and previous boards have initiated. All work is done on a voluntary basis and those who have served on the board over the past year will be recognized at our membership meeting during our Annual conference on Friday, April13, 2004.

Congratulations also goes to our scholarship winners: Danielle Dawson, for the student scholarship and Anne Marie Beachel, for the professional scholarship. They will receive free registration and room to our Annual conference up in Albany. These two can now say, “It pays to respond to the mailings from NYSTRA”.

If you have not registered yet for the conference I urge you to send in your registration to ensure a space. It looks to be another great opportunity for education, networking, socializing and R&R in a supportive atmosphere among like professionals. Look forward to seeing you there. Have a safe trip.

Ron Becker