(since lowering Membership dues), we have increased by almost 10%. The number of Members from outside of North America has doubled since 2004! This is a direct result of IAFP’s increased activity beyond the North American boarders. Now, fully 21% of our IAFP Members reside outside of North America. This is compared to only 13% just six years ago.We do track our Canada, Mexico and United States Members separat- ely and each group has remained very steady in total over the past few years with Canada losing just a few (10% from a peak of 316), Mexico gaining just a few and the United States gaining 7.6% or about 175 from its low point. So, I hope this month’s column helps to point out two things about IAFP. One is the importance of a financially successful IAFP Annual Meeting. And the second point is how our low, base Membership fee and our International efforts have truly paid off in bringing more food safety professionals together under the IAFP name. We hope that all IAFP Members see the value in belonging to the Association and that YOU will encourage your coworkers and colleagues to become actively involved with the Association. Please let us know if we can answer any questions or be of further assistance to you in these efforts! SEPTEMBER 2010 | FOOD PROTECTION TRENDS 527