Message from AIA-NJ the President

April 11, 2011

By now, 2011 is in full swing. I can’t believe its April already. The weather is getting a bit warmer, flowers are beginning to bloom and I can again watch my beloved New York Yankees pursue their 28th World Championship. Hopefully you have also noticed a flurry of activity from AIA New Jersey.

On April 13, 2011 and April 14, 2011, we will have over 300 architects attending our continuing education program discussing the changes to New Jersey’s building code. Thank you in advance to Stacey Ruhle Kliesch and Charles Spitz for organizing such a successful event.
The Legislative and Government Affairs committee continues to monitor bills that directly affect the practice of architecture. These bills cover such diverse topics such as the environment, procurement, codes and licensure. In a parallel effort, our Public Awareness committee continues to promote the value of architects. You may have seen some of our recent letters to the editor which publically addressed reports of Governor Christie’s recent remarks. Similarly, AIA New Jersey met with the School Development Authority to advocate the use of architects throughout school design and construction process and to object to rumors suggesting the use of stock school plans throughout the State.

The planning for the inaugural TriStates Design Conference is moving along rapidly. Opportunities still exist to become a speaker, a sponsor or exhibit at the trade show. This will prove to be a wonderful and exciting event. We have already confirmed Richard Meier and Stanley Tigerman as our keynote speakers.

Finally, I have closed each of my monthly articles with a plea for volunteers and for issues that affect you, our members. Outside of people pointing out my tie is crooked in my headshot or that they’ll only come to AIA meetings if they are held at the “Bada Bing” (and you know who you are), no one seriously contacts me. These are trying times and we are all in this together. Please, let me know how we can best help you. No idea or concern is too modest. In addition, we have a Call for Nominations currently seeking future leaders of AIA New Jersey. I look forward to hearing from you. I can be reached at mhanrahan@cchnj.com.

By remert | Posted in NJ Architect Newsletter | | Comments (0)