Hi Heather:

I truly feel for you and the rest of the Executive.  What a horrible
time to have to deal with the Dempsey issue as well as the conference
and normal daily business.  I can't do much on the Dempsey front but can
i help at the conference.  I was planning to be there all week from
Wednesday.  I could help on the Registration desk most days if that
helps.  I'd also be willing to greet the Mayor Wednesday at the
reception.  I've seen her once and at least should be able to recognize
her.  So let me know.   I'm leaving you a voice mail messgae too as i
know you won't see this until later tonight at earliest.

Iona

Heather wrote:

>   Dear AAO Members, The AAO Board of Directors had applied for office
> space with the city of Toronto in a heritage landmark in North York.
> The AAO's presence in the building would ensure that the space was
> open to the public on a regular basis and that the site would remain
> an archives.  This space is the Dempsey Store in North York.
> Recently, the city of Toronto councillors on the sub committee
> regarding the future use of the Dempesy Store listened to deputations
> from various interested parties, the AAO, the North York Historical
> Society and a parent's group who desires to turn the Dempsey Store
> into a learning centre for autistic children.  At this meeting the sub
> committee voted to recommend that the site be used as a learning
> centre of autistic children.  The AAO Executive Committee has decided
> to lobby for the space and to make comment on both the process city
> council has followed and on the apparent lack  of concern for
> historical buildings and archives. The final vote regarding the future
> use of the site and the future location of the AAO office space will
> take place on June 7th in Toronto.  Ironically this is the first day
> of our conference.  As you can well imagine the timinng of this is
> terrible, however all members of the AAO Board of Directors and staff
> have agreed to support this lobby effort. I am requesting a few
> things:-Your continued patience and understanding when calling the
> office or sending emails.  I, and those who work or volunteer will be
> very busy putting the finishing touches on the conference and with the
> Dempsey fight,  (you may not be aware, but the AAO email is at my home
> residence and not my office and thus I cannot reach it during business
> hours) and second -If you are a local archivist or interested party
> that you consider attending the city council meeting to watch the
> proceedings, email, fax or call your local councillor-If you have any
> leads, let us know. All members support is
> appreciated. Sincerely, Heather McMillanExecutive Director