GM's Report: June'09
April 27, 2009- June 23, 2009
Key Activities of the Staff Group
- Much of the time of all staff during this period was devoted to planning and organization of the 2009 APAS Mid Term Meeting. We are optimistic that we have a solid agenda for the meeting and a unique and pleasurable evening function planned for the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market.
- The April/May 2009 edition of the APAS Newsletter was produced and distributed. The newsletter is distributed by mail to APAS RM Representatives and member Rural Municipalities and by email to non-member Rural Municipalities.
- Our website is being continuously improved and is gaining credibility as a source of information for both members and the industry. Aj Thakker deserves a bouquet for his efforts in this area.
- Aj Thakker accompanied Ernie Briggs and Roy Selland to a meeting with the RM of Cana #214 relative to member renewal.
- Aj Thakker and Nial Kuyek had a luncheon meeting with Brenda Patton of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada with the objective of strengthening the working relationship between APAS and the AAFC Regional Office.
- Cheryl Regu and Crystal Hegel were contracted to construct data bases for communications by APAS. The data bases that have been assembled allow for general or targeted communication to member and non-member Rural Municipalities, RM Representatives, MPs, MLAs, federal and provincial governments, farm organizations, and other stakeholders. This work positions APAS to more effectively communicate with these groups.
- Aj Thakker and Nial Kuyek attended the Premier’s Dinner along with President Greg Marshall, David Spencer, Lawrence and Faye Johnstone, and Richard and Dorothy Weetman.
- The copier for the office was changed with a substantial monthly saving achieved in the cost of technology and printing. The current telephone system is obsolete and needs to be replaced. Options are being assessed.
Key Activities Specific to the General Manager
- President Marshall and I participated in the RMAA Golf Tournament in Saskatoon with the objective of strengthening relationships with this group.
- Our decision for 2009 Farm Progress Show was to not have a booth and to have the President, Board members, and General Manager attend key events and pursue organizations throughout the show. I attended breakfast meetings with the Canadian Grain Commission, Canadian Wheat Board, and the Farm Leadership Council and the AGM of the Agricultural Council of Saskatchewan. “Roaming the grounds” also provided the opportunity for interaction with many.
- President Marshall and I attended a reception and banquet hosted by the Bank of Canada on June 18, 2009.
- Recruited Doug Faller as Policy Manager with APAS beginning August 4, 2009. Doug’s background, training, experience, and skills will add to the organizational capacity of APAS.
- Involvement in discussions with Al Scholz and the Economic Trade, and Strategic Growth Committee relative to the terms of reference and work plan for a study to develop strategies and recommendations for New Entrant and Intergenerational Transfer Programs.
- Met with Lloyd Pletz to discuss safety net programs.
- Represented APAS at a consultation on the process of changing the regulations of Saskatchewan Environment.
- Participated in the conference call of the Board of Directors and meetings of the Economic, Trade, and Strategic Growth and Environment and Food Safety Committees.