Region's real estate industry raises $20,000 at September 11th Gala

Over 400 people representing every facet of the region's real estate industry gathered on September 11th for a first-of-its-kind event: "Honoring Our Heroes." A dramatic outpouring of support and gratitude for the work of first responders following the Boston Marathon bombing resulted in a donation of $20,000 to The Boston Police Foundation. The evening's MC Nancy Reno, vice president at Housing Management Resources, Inc., of Quincy, said, "We wanted to give back to those who play a key role in keeping all citizens and our properties safe every day and who are always there for us." The featured speaker Roseann Sdoia, Marathon bombing survivor and vice president at National Development, captivated the audience as she spoke of her experience. She thanked all first responders, the staff at Spaulding Rehab., and introduced the Boston firefighter who helped to save her life and accompanied her to the evening's event. Boston Police commissioner, Ed Davis, accepted an award on behalf of all First Responders. Also in attendance and recognized for their heroism: Belmont Police chief Richard McLaughlin; Cambridge Police superintendent Steven Williams; Newton Police lieutenant David McDonald; and the Watertown Police Department's Edward Deveau. Also recognized were the Cambridge Fire Department, Belmont Fire Department, Mass. General Hospital, Spaulding Rehab, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, EMTs, and the American Red Cross Regional CEO Jarrett Barrios. Recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for his lifelong support of first responders, 97 year-old Carl Barron of Belmont, legendary Cambridge businessman and real estate investor, emphasized the value of top-notch training for law enforcement officers in his address. The gala "Evening of Laughter'" held at Jillian's also featured three local comedians Lamont Price, David McDonough, and Tony V who transformed the live auction into a fun segment and helped raise thousands of dollars. "Our planning committee was impressed with the speed with which the real estate community responded when we announced the event," said Julie Kelliher, executive director of the N. E. Affordable Housing Management Association (NEAHMA). Major sponsors were WinnResidential, Housing Management Resources, HD Supply, Yardi, Reebok, ARS, Cambridge Trust Co., and Sherwin Williams. Event organizers included NEAHMA; Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)/Boston chapter; International Facility Management Association (IFMA)/Boston chapter; Citizens' Housing And Planning Association (CHAPA); Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston (BRAGB); United States Green Building Council (USGBC/MA); and the New England Real Estate Journal. Cambridge Savings Bank is a major event sponsor and is collecting donations and ticket proceeds.