Dear Members,

First, I want to thank Scott Churchill, SRA for leading our Chapter in 2009. Scott did a great job and provided a strong representation of our chapter both locally and regionally. He actively participated in our Regional and National meetings, further enhancing the reputation our Chapter has built through the efforts of our past and present Board Members, representatives and Committee Chairs.

Now, going forward, the biggest challenge our industry faces is to regain the confidence and respect of those who use our services. Appraisals are no longer "just something for the file". You are members of the premier appraisal organization in the Country. Strive to be the best you can be!! Do not accept mediocrity!

The Appraisal Institute is built on a strong foundation and a dedicated membership. I would like all members to reach out, find someone not involved in the Appraisal Institute. Ask them to join the A.I. Our membership has been growing steadily over the past 5 years, and we are becoming stronger. Let other appraisers know that the A.I. will educate them like no other. Our 2010 education schedule is packed with new and interesting courses. We have offered two of the three courses of the Litigation Series: "Litigation Appraising", "Condemnation Appraising", and coming May 13 & 14 "Appraiser as an Expert Witness". Successful completion of all 3 courses and examinations will earn you a "Litigation Certificate of Completion". As well, we are offering a number of other interesting courses for both Residential and Commercial appraisers. Remember new updates have been made to USPAP effective Jan 1, 2010. Make it point to take the 7 hrs USPAP Update as soon as possible. The next offering will be THURSDAY, JULY 22, 2010. Re-certification is only a year away!! (7/1/09 -6/30/11) Get a head start and take advantage of our tremendous schedule of courses.

I am looking forward to an exciting year!!! I will initiate a few events throughout the year, just for our associates. Again, we have several associates near completion of their designation in 2010. If you are in the process of starting or completing your designation, please don’t hesitate to call Mary Ann, me (bpkelly65@hotmail.com), or Sara Gaskill, MAI (sgaskill@irr.com) general guidance chair or Dave Mueller, SRA (davemueller3@yahoo.com) residential guidance chair. We are anxious to help!!

On the government side, we have numerous legislative matters on the agenda, including the Appraisal Management Company Registration Act, HVCC and proposed changes for the 2012-2013 edition of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice. We will keep you tuned-in along the way!!

With the help of Vice President, Rich Jones, MAI we are in the planning stages of some interesting meetings for our general membership. We will cross promote our group with others, such as attorneys, accountants and financial planners through joint meetings. Please plan to attend when the dates are announced. As well, Tom Frederick, SRA, will be our Golf Chairman. As many of you know, Tom is a Pro on and off the course and we should all expect a great venue!! Keep your the date open –Monday, August 30th at Edgewood Country Club, cash lunch, 12:30 Shot-gun!! I encourage all members to attend and bring a golfing buddy.

I look forward to a busy and successful year as your President!! Good luck to all in 2010!!

Sincerely,
Brian P. Kelly, MAI, SRA, 2010 President
Pittsburgh Metropolitan Chapter of the Appraisal Institute