| Members' 25-Year Reminiscences Robert W. Marriott, Jr. Associate Dean I remember joining ASPO because it would be a great information clearinghouse for the profession, only to be disappointed that it was caught in a dispute for the hearts and minds of planners with AIP. (While architects got the big planning jobs to do new towns and university campuses). I remember thinking that the merger was a great opportunity to put those disagreements behind us and get away from "professional credentials" as a mission of the organization, believing that results would make us valuable. I thought I could help and happily served three terms as chapter president for Maryland. I remember the virtual presentation to the Chapter Presidents Council that caused us to decide against recommending that the next board meeting be held in Indianapolis despite a slick video presentation from the Indiana president. I remember singing "Hail to the Chief" to Mary Fitch to convince her to become chapter president of the National Capital Chapter. I remember a dedicated staff helping citizens push growth management through in Baltimore County, resisting the pressure from the homebuilders, chamber of commerce, and realtors. I remember having an opportunity to direct the best planning staff in the country at the MNCPPC in Montgomery County. I remember being disappointed as AICP assumed the role of AIP from within APA, diminishing the information-sharing role beneath a lapel pin of exclusivity that diminished "member" to less than "AICP member." I've spent 35 years planning and managing planning. I have enjoyed my association with APA, but most of my remembrances are about what I believe was an opportunity missed. Perhaps it will come again. | |
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