As your Secretary-Treasurer, I’m proud to report that our financial position is the best it has been in quite some time. In 2003, we ran our first budget surplus in more than a decade and the strict financial controls adopted under this administration have put an end to the years of irresponsible and scandalous spending. I pledge to you my commitment to continue the measures that have led to the solid financial growth of this institution. As our financial strength grows, so does our collective bargaining strength, our organizing power, our political voice and most importantly, our ability to serve you, our members.