President’s Message Garry McDonald CSA President As we prepare for another snowbird travel season, we are well aware that many Canadians are feeling cautious, and even angry about travelling to the United States. Tariffs and rapidly evolving border policies under the current administration have raised legitimate and understandable concerns. These issues can make cross-border travel feel more complicated than in the past. Political rhetoric can at times feel unsettling, and changes to long-standing government policy can create uncertainty. While these are serious issues that warrant our attention, they should not overshadow the broader reality – political policies are mostly temporary, while the relationship between Canadians and Americans has endured for more than 150 years. Despite these challenges, there remain many reasons for optimism. Canadian snowbirds are some of the most resilient travellers in the world, weathering economic shifts, hurricanes and even a global pandemic. Snowbirds have always adapted and thrived and I believe that this upcoming season will prove to be no exception. Our early membership renewals are strong as members continue to count on us to provide them with the most accurate, factual and timely information. It is the reason why 115,000 CSA members maintain their trust in this association. Despite headlines, most Canadians still experience smooth border crossings. With proper documentation and preparation, whether travelling by air, car or RV, snowbird journeys remain straightforward. For most, the practical reality of travel is far less complicated than the political noise might suggest. Local chambers of commerce, small-business owners and state tourism boards are making their voices heard. They know better than anyone the importance of the billions of dollars which we contribute annually to local economies. Restaurants, RV parks, condo associations and health-care providers all benefit from our seasonal migration. This financial contribution ensures that Canadians remain highly valued guests, regardless of political rhetoric. If travelling to the United States is not on your radar this winter, you obviously have other options. Many of our past accomplishments will still benefit you wherever you decide to travel, and our information and resources remain available to you as well. A reminder that our 2025 Snowbird Lifestyle Presentations kick off on September 22 in Sarnia, Ontario. We will follow that up with Ontario shows in Orillia, Parry Sound and Owen Sound. The tour will continue in Atlantic Canada with shows in Moncton, N.B., Summerside, P.E.I. and Dartmouth, N.S. This year, we have a new lineup of entertainers including singer-songwriter Amy Sky, comedian Derek Edwards and Canadian guitar virtuoso Pavlo. There will also be some brief welcoming remarks from yours truly. Although these events remain free of charge, tickets are required and are available through each theatre’s box office. Tickets may well be available on the day of the event, but it’s always best to reserve yours now in case we “sell out.” Individual box office contact information can be found by clicking on the Events tab of our website at www.snowbirds.org. As we look ahead, the Canadian Snowbird Association will continue to advocate for fair treatment of Canadian travellers. We remain in close contact with policymakers on both sides of the border to ensure that snowbirds’ voices are heard. More important, we will continue to provide our members with the tools, resources and confidence that they need to travel safely and securely. In today’s political climate, numbers matter more than ever. When we speak to government officials, the size of our membership directly translates into influence. Every renewal, every new member strengthens our ability to combat unfair policies and stand up for the rights of Canadian travellers. If you have not yet renewed, you can easily do so online at www.snowbirds.org/join-csa. To those of you who have already renewed, my sincere thanks. By standing together, we ensure that snowbirds are not only heard, but respected. At the Canadian Snowbird Association, we firmly believe that this moment in history is just that – a moment. It will pass, as all such periods do. What endures is the tradition of Canadian snowbirds travelling south each winter, forming friendships, supporting local communities and building bonds that transcend politics. Please travel safely and I hope to see you at one of our fall or winter shows. 12 | www.snowbirds.org
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