The Board of Directors of the Association of Canadian Archivists wishes to
assure its members
and conference attendees that the 2003 conference is going ahead as planned.
Early Registrations are significantly ahead of last year at this time.

Obviously the SARS situation is of concern. However,Toronto's Medical
Officer of Health, Dr. Sheela Basrur, has stated:

"In my opinion, the facts do not warrant a travel advisory at this time. To
categorize Toronto with Beijing and other parts of China is a gross
misrepresentation of the facts.  In Toronto, SARS is primarily a disease of
healthcare workers and has occurred largely in hospital settings.  The
disease has not spread in community settings and that is very good news for
the city
and for those travellers, visitors and business people who are considering
whether or not they should come to Toronto."

Further Dr. Clifford McDonald of the U.S. Center for Disease Control and
Prevention disagrees with the W.H.O. Travel Advisory.

There is growing evidence that the outbreak has peaked and health care
workers report a recent drop in the caseload. Life for Toronto and area
residents, who have not been affected by SARS, goes on in much the same way
as it did before the outbreak.

The conference planners have put together a tremendous program in excellent
facilities. They continue to work hard for the benefit of Members. The Board
of the ACA and the conference planners look forward to seeing you in
Toronto.

Sincerely

Bryan Corbett
President
Association of Canadian Archivists