Message from
the President
Darwin Kanius, AAAS, MAAS, CAE

President’s Message and Holiday Greetings

How quickly the time has come to reflect on a year of challenges and accomplishments whether it involves work and career, volunteer services or family. In this time of hectic schedules and increased demands it is always refreshing to set aside a period of time over the holiday season to decompress, relieve built up stress and recharge for the upcoming year.  Personally, I prefer to catch up on some recreational reading, relax with my library of movies and enjoy some fresh air with my dogs.  I hope all of you have a special way to enjoy the holiday season.

Already the SAAA Executive has had one meeting to set the course of action for 2012.  One important change that is already in the planning stages is the Professional Development Workshop (PDW).  The SAAA is working collaboratively with SAMA to combine the SAMA Staff meeting with the SAAA PDW.  This event will occur during the week of May 14th to 18th, 2012 in Saskatoon.  Details will be posted on the SAAA website as they become confirmed.  Please note this change and set aside the time to attend.

Progress continues with the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT) and the North West Partnership (NWP) between the SAAA, MA and SIA.  The SAAA met with the SIA executive in late November, 2011 in order to exchange information and reiterate the concerns of the Ag assessment appraisers regarding the proposed amendments to the Agrologists Act, 1994. 

Further, MA has replied positively to SAAA’s request for an all stakeholders meeting to discuss this issue in more detail.  The SAAA is waiting for MA’s version of the Assessment Appraisers’ draft regulations so a review of the recommendations can be completed in advance of the proposed stakeholder meeting.
In closing, I want to express my appreciation, once again, to all the volunteers who participate on the various committees and Council and to Marilyn Steranka our Administrative Consultant for their dedication and hard work for the benefit of the SAAA.

Finally, my wish to all of you is for very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Sincerely,

Darwin Kanius, President