Versatility, Compassion and Dedication . . . We did it TOGETHER!
Chris Reese
President
I can hardly believe this is my last article. In thinking of what to write about, several ideas came to mind. Of course, the first would be a recap of the issues and changes we've all experienced this year. I have been writing about that all year. And since there's already a "Year in Review" article in this magazine, I won't elaborate.
I need to say, however, that I'm proud of all of us because we are survivors. We are strong, and we know we must adapt to changing markets, as we have with this one. Challenges sometime bring out the best in us and force us to develop a plan of action for our business. We have been challenged this year, and will be better REALTORS® for it!
Now, what I really want to share with you is what I have seen first hand in the operations of our board, both with our staff and our volunteer members.
As your President, I attended many political functions this year, and I must say that just about EVERYONE knew Larry Metzger of the Columbus Board of REALTORS®. The respect that Larry has earned from elected officials both locally and statewide provides clout to our 7,400 member organization. The fact that his presence is so strong validates the influence we carry in the political arena. I must also tell you that I have seen Larry constantly looking for, and researching new ideas to make our Board better and provide for our members.
Our other staff members are also experts in their respective fields. Stan Collins knows everything that goes on at the Board, runs CORPAC, Professional Standards, Finances and Budget, Foundation Fund, and so much more. Marqué Bressler, not only gives us one of the best Board magazines in the country, but is a pro at handling the media and our public relations. Corey Skinner is a true professional and always is looking to bring us more member benefits. Lucy Hadley is the best when it comes to education, event planning, speakers & programs. Mike Gautier does a tremendous job of overseeing the day to day operations of the MLS. And behind all the scenes is Kathy Elliot, there to handle just about everything.
Do you realize these people have been with the Columbus Board for 6-35 years? How many businesses can say that about their staff? With their combined experience and dedication to our members, there is no doubt that our board is second to none.
The other thing that I have witnessed this year is the commitment of our volunteers. The chairs and members have devoted so much of their time and energy to our committees. Just to mention a few...
Take CORPAC -- Chairs, Chip & Sue Parish, Kathy Bornhorst, and John Royer have had a record breaking year, bringing in almost $150,000.00 for this most important cause. That is more than any board in the STATE! If you have attended any of the events, you know the dedication they have put into this committee. My hat is off to them & they made me proud to be the President.
Another example is the Equal Opportunity Committee. With their insight, chairs Terry Bryant & Mike Troutman were able to bring in a record number of new and seasoned attendees to the monthly mentoring programs.
With our myriad of MLS issues, including changes, fines, Wolfnet, and mapping, chair Jeff Murray did an outstanding job. He dedicated his time to an endless number of concerns & task forces.
I could go on and on about every chairperson, and member who gives their time throughout the year to serve at our Board. I have seen what you do, and want to say thank you for your service. Your unselfish giving to our industry benefits us all.
I'd also like to thank our outgoing Directors for their years of time and devotion to our Board...Nancy Byrd, Mar' Hartley, John Myers, Sandy Schupp, Kim McCutchen, Mike Simpson and Doug McCloud.
We will all be in great hands next year with our new secretary, Sue Lusk-Gleich, Treasurer Gary Parsons, President-Elect Greg Hrabcak, and new President Brad Bennett. These are all leaders with a multitude of energy and experience.
In closing, it has truly been a pleasure and an honor to have been your President this year. The experience has been rewarding to me both professionally and personally. I am proud to say that I have been a part of the leadership of this Board, and will never forget this experience. Thank you...Happy Selling!
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