Once again the ICEFAT NEWS team, spearheaded by Kim Powell has produced another excellent issue of the ICEFAT NEWS. I am sure there will be something interesting and informative for all our readers, Clients and Colleagues alike.

The past 4 months have been very busy times for ICEFAT, the Steering Committee and the sub committees. I am happy to report that ICEFAT has received a record number of applications to join our organization of which, SIX new companies have been accepted by our membership.

Preparations are well underway for the 2005 ICEFAT Convention in Singapore. This will certainly be one of the most memorable conventions ever. The post convention trip to Cambodia is confirmed. If you have not already booked, time is running out, please contact Marianne Honders (Secretariat) right away. I am looking forward to welcoming our new members as well as saying “Hello” to returning friends when we meet in Singapore.

This convention concludes the first three year term as Steering Committee members for both Johan Öfverbeck and myself. As you may recall every year, two Steering Committee positions become available. This year both Johan and I are eligible for re-election however if there are any other members interested in joining the Steering Committee we would welcome your nomination. Please remember you must submit your nomination to the Secretariat “at least” three weeks prior to the convention. Johan represents one of three members from Europe and I represent the member from the “world at large”.

Finally, not to rush past this convention, a reminder that 2006 will mark the 30th anniversary of ICEFAT conventions. I consider myself blessed for the many friendships I have made. I pause to remember the good friends who have passed and I look forward to meeting so many more interesting people with a common interest in the future. Friendship and camaraderie is what should, and does, bind ICEFAT members and makes our organization so strong.