Dear Central Zone,

As many of you know, this year marks the end of my second term as your President.

Working with you these past 4 years has been an honour and a privilege. I am so proud of the talent, passion, and work ethic this Zone brings to the CSP system.

It has also been a wild ride. Navigating the challenges of entering the President’s seat amidst a global pandemic was not for the feint of heart.

I am very proud of what we accomplished together. In the crazy world of Covid, we found a new way to work in the classroom and on the slopes, while maintaining our standard for safety and our service level through those years. And when it was safe to do so, we reinvented, reimagined, and reinvigorated all of our in-person activities from a bigger Barrie swap to our Awards BBQ.

None of this would have been possible without my fearless team. In the face of so many uncontrollable obstacles they rose above and beyond helping me to oversee CZs contribution to the National modernization process, update of ZIMS, launch of a new training app, and the return of events like our awards ceremony, Zone Race, and much more.

I cannot thank enough Wyn Smith, Jeff Schnieder, Sinèad Anderson, Don Rivers, Brenda Baker and their teams, as well as Bob Lidstone and the Board for all their support.

Closer to my own slopes, I also must thank my home resort – Caledon – for all the backup, understanding, and grace you have afforded me as I spent many winter shifts at my computer instead of on my skis.

Lastly, there is one person without whom none of this would be remotely possible. I really cannot thank enough my number one supporter, my husband Tony Karol. He really is the most resolute and giving of all the CSP support spouses!

Nevertheless, the time has come for me to step aside to refocus on my family and the start of my yarn business.

This is my 20^th season with the patrol and over half of that time, I have been in a leadership role of some sort or another. I have seen what we can achieve together – harnessing the strength and knowledge from each member. This is a tough decision for me to make – having said that, it is time for the Zone to have new eyes on what we do and what we can do. 

I look forward to seeing Central Zone continue to grow and evolve, and I welcome anyone interested in the President role to come talk to me about my experience. While I cannot guarantee it will be an easy job, I can promise you it is as rewarding as it is challenging.

Nominations are open until February 19^th and the election will take place online. The election process is overseen by Ontario Division, if you have questions, I encourage you to contact Bradley Redwood at bradley.redwood@skipatrol.ca.  

Boots-off,
Marion Karol