Description
2008 CAI-GLAC – Spectacular Awards Gala
By Jonathan Kirschenmann
How often, at awards banquets, do you have the pleasure of a floor show? My thought is—not many. This event truly "blew the proverbial skirt off" any other awards banquet. The expectation of the evening was far-shadowed by the actual presentation. No one saw it coming . . .
Entering the event was like walking into the original Moulin Rouge. A brightly-lit heart adorned the stage, sending a glamorous glow over the room and setting a mood of instant excitement and anticipation. Two hosted bars aided in the kickoff to a wonderful night, thanks to Securitas Security Services. USA, Inc.
Then the lights were dimmed and, with a warm welcome to all present, Chapter President Lynne Collmann began the show. And what a show it would be! Lights, glitter, feathers, sequins, tights and high heels came bursting out, and to a stunned audience, the Ladies of the Marmalade dancers performed their hearts out.
After getting our heart rates back to a life-sustaining rhythm, the awards presentation began with a couple jokes from our guest comedian emcee who then introduced our awards presenter, Alba Monroy, representing Telesis Community Credit Union, the Entertainment Sponsor. The banquet continued with a number of awards given to outstanding CAI members—awards that ranged from “Hero of the Year” to “Special Event of the Year.” (Award recipients are listed below.) With only a pause when dinner was served and just as attendees began to get acquainted with those seated around them, we were brought back to attention by the girls from Moulin Rouge. Trying to exceed their first number, the gals decided it was time for the “Can Can.” The original director of the 1960’s Can Can, Walter Lang said it best after an interview in the 1960’s, “The Can Can will always bring a smile.” It absolutely did.
As quickly as they entered, the girls from the Moulin Rouge were gone again. Alba picked right up where she left off and presented another string of awards with the help of
The last item on the playbill for the evening was dessert and dancing. As soon as dessert was served, the DJ cranked up the music and the remainder of the night is somewhat of a blur so I’ll leave it to your imagination . . .
How will we top this one? Hope to see you next year.
Jonathan Kirschenmann is the owner of 24-Hour Restoration and a member of the CAI-GLAC Social Committee.
AWARDS OF THE EVENING
Hero of the Year
Presented to a CAI-member homeowner who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to improve his or her community. The nominees were all recognized last September at our Heroes Luncheon as community association volunteers who have done something extraordinary that has saved, significantly enhanced or improved his/her community.
Recipient: Loretta Slonim, Briarcliffe Towne Homes Association., Inc.
Editor’s Award
Presented to the most outstanding article featured during 2007 in FOCUS Newsmagazine. Recipient selection comes from Publications Committee’s recommendation to the Executive Committee.
Recipient: SB 800 and Its Effects on Decks and Their Warranties & Maintenance—Bill Leys
President’s Award
Presented to the individual who provided particularly noteworthy assistance to the
President during the course of the President’s term in office.
Recipient:: Lynne Collmann
Speaker of the Year
Awarded to the most outstanding speaker(s) at an educational program (either a Skirball or a Manager Program event) based upon surveys received. Recipient selection comes from the Programs Committee’s recommendation to the Executive Committee.
Recipients:
“How to Accomplish 20 Hours of Work in an 8-Hour Day”
Katy Krupp, Feinberg, Grant, Mayfield, Kaneda & Litt, LLP
Michael Huffman, CCAM, CMCA, AMS, PCAM
Management Professionals, Inc.
Timothy Cline, CIRMS, Timothy Cline Insurance Agency, Inc.
Special Event of the Year
Presented to the committee whose contribution for the year was exceptional and who demonstrated teamwork at its best in putting on a very successful event.
Recipient: Casino Night—November 3, 2007
Spotlight Award
Presented to a management company, individual manager or service provider company that has made a significant contribution to the community association industry in 2007, i.e. marketing technique, technological advancement, communication vehicle, association extreme makeover.
Recipients: Securitas Security Services USA, Inc.
SmartProperty Systems, Inc.
Rising Star Award
Awarded to an individual whose leadership abilities and professional contributions have earmarked him/her for even greater accomplishments in the future.
Recipients: Michael Beaumont, Rapkin, Gitlin & Beaumont
Kathy Lawler, Har-Bro
Community Association of the Year
Awarded to a CAI-member homeowners association that has shown significant improvement over the previous year, ie. extreme makeover, financial stability, a new program or community event, new or improved communication device.
Recipient: Castlegate Homeowners Association
Volunteer of the Year
Presented to a Chapter member who has made a significant contribution to the Chapter through active involvement in activities and events.
Recipient: Karen Kokowicz, CCAM, CMCA, PCAM, Westview Towers HOA
