Volunteers recognized at Annual CAI-NE Chapter Dinner

At the 2014 Annual CAI-NE chapter dinner dozens of award winners and industry leaders were applauded for their selfless contributions and years of dedicated service. Hundreds of community association homeowners and professionals were on hand and the first to congratulate these deserving award recipients. Immediate past president, Pete Garrett and 2014 chapter president, Frank Lombardi presented Association Excellence Awards and individual awards in the following categories: Association Excellence in Service Award for Special Events Ridgefield Condominium Association, Clinton, MA The association was singled out for their "Summer Extravaganza," an event created around a theme that would educate residents, celebrate the completion of a community wide project and increase resident participation. Committee member and owner involvement in the planning and execution of the 'extravaganza' were credited for re-energized community spirit. Association Excellence in Service Award for Going Green The Niles Company, Inc., Quincy, MA The Going Green Award was presented to a company that was proactive in seeking out energy saving measures. After conducting an energy review and addressing the recommendations outlined, electrical consumption was dramatically reduced and substantial savings were realized. And by utilizing available electric company rebates and other incentive programs, the financial impact was minimal. Association Excellence in Service Award for Creative Solutions Devon Wood Condominium Trust Braintree, MA Problems and their solutions come in all shapes and sizes and this year's award presentation showcased the efforts of a community that addressed an age old problem with an innovative and affordable solution. Perplexed by the unpleasant ramifications of residents not adhering to rules regarding pet waste, after considering some traditional options, the ultimate solution turned out to be DNA testing. The pet-friendly program has received local, national and even international press. Association Excellence in Service Award for Landscape/ Community Beautification Brook House Condominium Trust, Brookline, MA Turning their attention to the task of protecting property values and enhancing curb appeal, the Brook House Condominium Trust engaged an outside marketing firm to assist the board and its newly created marketing committee to implement a multi-phase, 2 year project that included substantial upgrades to exterior common areas and building entrances. Association Excellence in Service Award for Communications Ridgefield Condominium Association, Clinton, MA The Association Excellence in Service Award for Communications showcased the effective tools and strategies that engaged residents in dialogue. This communities' monthly newsletter was described by residents as being informative, easy to read and a publication they looked forward to receiving. The newsletter promotes association events and was credited for increasing participation in all community activities. Association Volunteer of the Year Dee Hayston, Longworth Place Condominium, Brockton, MA The 2014 award recipient was described as having a "passion for the community and working with the board to improve the association, quality of living and real estate curb appeal." She was recognized for her unwavering commitment and work in educating board members and owners about the benefits of an improvement project that would include vinyl siding replacement of all association buildings. Service Professional of the Year Rosado &Sons, Inc., Landscape Construction Co., Westborough, MA The Service Professional of the Year award each year recognizes those companies that provide exemplary service to association boards and residents. Rosado & Sons was nominated for their dedication to the members of the communities they serve and for the care they take in maintaining client properties in all seasons. Community Association Manager Of The Year Elaine Alexis, CMCA, AMS, Barrington Management Company, Inc., Arlington, MA Nominated by the entire board of directors of the association, she was described by board members as "unflappable and always professional, she treats those properties she is responsible for as though she lived there." Recognized by her board and CAI for her tireless efforts, patience and empathy as well as her knowledge about condominium issues, Alexis was this year's manager of the year award recipient. Recruiter of the Year Patrick Holland, Mediate Management Adam Kenney, Peabody Properties Myra Poverman, Greater Boston Properties The Recruiter of the Year Award is presented to those volunteers who have helped the chapter continue to maintain its prestigious status as one of the top chapters in the country. The award was presented to 3 association managers who tied in recruiting the most number of members to CAI over the previous year. Chapter Volunteer of the Year Beth Sullivan, The GroundsKeeper, Ashland, MA With the chapter volunteer award, an individual whose efforts have helped further the goals of CAI and the chapter are recognized. A familiar face to many, she has served several years as a CAI New England board member as well as chapter president-elect and president. In addition to her work on a number of committees including the ELN Committee, Golf Tournament and Silent Auction Committees, for nearly a decade she has been instrumental in the success of the annual condo conference and expo. For her commitment to the chapter and her years of devoted volunteer service Sullivan was the Volunteer of the Year award recipient.