The details of the 2005 CCNA convention are still being finalized, so bookmark this site and refer to it often for updates on the convention program and registration information.

In the Publishers' Symposium on June 3 and 4, a dynamic line-up of speakers will present a range of discussion topics to help delegates gain a greater understanding of the climate and trends affecting the community newspaper industry now and in the near future. Featured speakers include:

o  Allison Bone, Analyst, Service Industries Division, Statistics Canada, will present newspaper publishing trends and other highlights from the 2003 Statistics Canada media survey. The presentation will include an examination of trends from 1999 to 2003, as well as touch on the changes being made to the survey questionnaire for 2005. Ms. Bone will also mention other types of information available from Statistics Canada that might be of interest to newspaper publishers and their readers.

o  Susan Seto, Senior Research Associate, Environics Research Group, will discuss Canadian social values. Ms. Seto's presentation delves into Canadian national and community newspaper readership habits, and the demographics and values of these readers. Environics Research Group is Canada's leading social values monitor, producing reliable, qualitative and quantitative research for business and governments for more than a quarter-century.

o  What's Next for Readership? A panel of ComBase directors and media planners examines the ComBase readership study, what it is has done for the community newspaper industry, and the possibilities for the future. The panel also explores how opinions have changed about the industry and talks about ComBase yesterday, today and tomorrow. ComBase is the Canadian Community Newspaper Database Corporation, the research subsidiary of the Canadian Community Newspapers Association. The next ComBase study results are due for release in fall 2005.

o   John Parisella, President and Vice-Chairman of the Board, BCP, a leader in the advertising industry, delivers an agency insider's perspective on the advertising marketplace. Mr. Parisella has worked in the field of communications for over 25 years. He is head of all communication operations of BCP nationwide and has been with BCP since 1994 when he served as Vice-President of Corporate Development and Strategic Counsel. Mr. Parisella was appointed President of BCP in 1999.

o  Dan Gaynor, immediate past president and former publisher of the Calgary Herald, will discuss the importance of skilled leadership in the newspaper business today. Mr. Gaynor's presentation addresses the need for strong competitive teams in the process of creating a new product with each press run, and describes some key leadership practices. In addition to his role as president of Gaynor Consulting, Mr. Gaynor is chair-elect of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, and a former director of the Canadian Newspaper Association.

o   Dale Bemben, Product Manager, Publications Mail, Canada Post Corporation, examines what's next for Canada Post and community newspapers. Since being appointed Product Manager, Publications Mail, in 1998, Mr. Bemben has overseen product innovations such as electronic ordering and expanded sample enclosures. Mr. Bemben has served on various publishing industry panels, working closely with key industry associations, including CCNA, to pursue opportunities to improve operating efficiency and add value for publishers and mailers.

o  Golf Tournament - Delegates enjoy the fresh Rocky Mountain air and friendly competition at this opening social event at Banff Springs Golf Course on Wednesday, June 1. Banff Springs Golf Course epitomizes the true definition of a world-class product. With subtle updates in recent times the golf course continues to exceed expectations and lead the shaping of the term “classic golf” that we have today. Tee times start at 11:00 AM, and a dress code will be in effect. Registration fee is $100 and includes a cart. All golfers are asked to bring a prize.

o  Presidents Banquet - One of the many highlights of the 86th convention is the inauguration of the new CCNA president at the Presidents Banquet on Thursday, June 2. The evening dinner and dance will be topped off by Tim Tamashiro and his Bonanza Little Big Band, the only foothills western swing orchestra in the world! Come and experience this award-winning ten-piece ensemble for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.

o  Sulphur Mountain - Delegates will enjoy a trip by gondola up Sulphur Mountain for a fantastic view of the Rockies while you enjoy dinner on Friday, June 3. Arrive early and explore the mountaintop and taken in the 360-degree view from the Panorama Restaurant. Watch out for the goats or other wildlife on the way up and remember to take your cameras!