OSCAR President's Blog

A Focus on Defeating Amendment 4

2010-04-09T11:47:00.000-07:00

Many efforts are already being launched Statewide regarding pushing to defeat Amendment 4 which will be on the upcoming November 2010 Ballot. The Florida Realtors RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee) Trustees have solicited the support of local Realtor Associations to earmark 16% of local RPAC funds specifically to fight Amendment 4. The OSCAR BOD has voted in favor of this effort. In conjunction with many other efforts, Public Policy Chair, Tim Weisheyer, will be making a presentation on Amendment 4 to help our OSCAR Realtors understand this important issue better. I have also written an article on Amendment 4 which is going to be published on the April issue of our magazine. I encourage all members to attend this Amendment 4 presentation on Tuesday, April 13th, at 8:30 a.m. during the MLS Marketing meeting at the OSCAR Main Room. Please plan to stay after the meeting to attend the General Membership Meeting at 9:30 a.m.

OSCAR Visits Florida House Representatives and Senators

2010-04-09T11:46:00.001-07:00

A group of about 15 OSCAR Realtors just returned from a very successful trip to Tallahassee for the Great American Realtor Days. Key Contact Daisy Cid (Rep. Darren Soto) and Key Contact Cheryl Grieb (Rep. Mike Horner) together with Public Policy Chair, Tim Weisheyer, led us as we talked to our elected officials regarding support for key legislative issues that are important to Florida Realtors. OSCAR was one of the many Realtor Associations that showed up in numbers to lobby for these important real estate related issues that are focused on revitalizing Florida’s economy and strengthening the local real estate market. We also had an opportunity to join other Realtor Associations who were Key Contacts for Senator Mike Haridopolis and Senator Paula Dockery as well as Representative Stephen Precourt.

Many other associations were impressed by OSCAR numbers who attended GARD considering the smaller size of our organization. The highlight of the trip was when both Rep. Darren Soto and Rep. Mike Horner (from our districts) stopped by our dinner table to spend some quality time with OSCAR. We thank our public officials for their commitment to our community and their support of OSCAR.

OSCAR BOD Votes to Upgrade Technology Infrastructure

2010-04-09T11:45:00.001-07:00

As a much needed capital improvement, the BOD recently passed a resolution to upgrade OSCAR technology hardware and software. This came as a recommendation from Technology Chair, Kemp Howland, whose committee worked tirelessly with our AE, Carol Platt, and staff. A study of the immediate and long term technology needs was made which resulted in a stage by stage hardware and software improvement plan. We are grateful to the Technology Committee for their contribution in making OSCAR move towards a more technologically advanced organization thus resulting in improved current and future member services.

OSCAR Presents Real Estate Market Trends To The St. Cloud Chamber

2010-04-09T11:41:00.001-07:00

This morning, April 9th, Director David DeLoach made a presentation of real estate market trends on behalf of OSCAR at the St. Cloud Chamber Economic Strategy Summit. This was by invitation of Chamber President, David Lane. St. Cloud Mayor Donna Hart led the meeting and the small group of 12 included local banks, businesses and the St. Cloud Economic Development. I was in attendance at this meeting as OSCAR President and the forum brought about many great ideas for reaching out to the local community regarding information on key economic issues that affect us nationally and locally. Mayor Hart has invited OSCAR to actively participate in the coming local community outreach events. We are very grateful to the St. Cloud Chamber for the opportunity to be a part of the conversation and OSCAR is proud to be the local voice of real estate. Our many thanks to Director David DeLoach for his service to the community and to OSCAR!

General Membership Meeting Called

2010-04-09T11:39:00.000-07:00

A general membership meeting has been called to vote on the adoption of the changes to our current OSCAR By-Laws. These changes have already been approved by NAR, FR, Board Attorney Daniel Villazon, and the OSCAR BOD. As the final step, the changes need to be ratified by our general members per our current By-Laws. Please make an effort to attend this meeting on Tuesday, April 13th, at 9:30 a.m. at the OSCAR Main Room. Your Leadership Team will also be presenting the First Quarter of 2010 Strategic Plan Progress Report at this meeting.

FREE Welcome Reception for AE

2010-03-19T10:52:00.000-07:00

A Welcome reception for our new AE, Carol Platt, has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 30, 2010 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Kissimmee Steak House. This is a FREE event for all members. Affiliate members are most welcome. This will give you an opportunity to meet Carol in person. OSCAR Leadership and Staff will also be in attendance. Cocktails and Hors d'œuvres will be provided.

An official announcement with event details will be made shortly. I look forward to seeing you there!

Statewide OPEN HOUSE April 10-11

2010-03-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

According to Florida REALTORS®, “Picture this: On April 10 & 11, 2010, more than 35,000 blue balloons featuring the REALTOR® logo will be flying above mailboxes at open houses from the Panhandle to Key West. It’s all part of the first-ever statewide open house weekend! But Florida Realtors aren’t the only ones showcasing properties during that weekend. State and local associations across the country have also designated April 10 & 11 as Open House Weekend. From coast to coast, the signature blue balloons will showcase thousands of open houses. It’s a buyer’s dream! The timing couldn’t be better for buyers. Interest rates are low. There’s a supply of homes at all price points. And the Florida Open House Weekend is two weeks before the April 30 deadline for the homebuyer tax credit. Take time now to prime move-up and first-time buyers to go to contract that weekend. Your state association will provide balloons FREE OF CHARGE to local boards/associations for distribution to brokers.”

I urge all our members to participate in this state-wide effort. OSCAR is gearing up to promote this event through local media. Let’s take an active part as a member of the REALTOR® family in reviving the local real estate market!

$200 Foreclosure Registration Ordinance Update

2010-03-19T10:46:00.000-07:00

City Manager of Kissimmee, Mark Durbin, recently invited a group of professionals in the local real estate industry at a round table discussion of this issue together with City Attorney, Don Smallwood, and the Federal Property Registration Corporation (FPRC) who has proposed this ordinance. I was in attendance as OSCAR President and Public Policy Chair, Tim Weisheyer, was in attendance as well. REO Brokers, Linda Goodwin (Goodwin Realty), Dorothy Buse (Coldwell Banker Ackley), Hope Andrews (Prudential Sapphire Realty), Daisy Cid (Remax Premier Properties) and Becky Sheive (Stewart Title) were invited and were all in attendance.

Oscecola REALTORS® were able to raise many concerns at the table and we are grateful to the City for the opportunity to raise these concerns. A follow up round table discussion is expected prior to the final reading of the ordinance. Our AE, Carol Platt, will be doing more fact finding on our behalf and will bring back more information for us to assess the issue. I have charged the Public Policy Committee to review this matter and deliver a recommendation to the Board of Directors for adoption.

Members, be proud. OSCAR is the trusted voice of real estate!

OSCAR Issues Position Statement to Osceola County Manager

2010-03-19T10:40:00.000-07:00

County Manager, Mike Freilinger, recently requested OSCAR’s position on the possible “Aircraft Noise Level Disclosure Ordinance”. The OSCAR Board of Directors passed the following position statement concerning this issue and has submitted this to the Osceola County Managers office on March 2, 2010:

"The Osceola County Association of REALTORS® request the Osceola County Board of County Commissioners NOT create a new ordinance requiring all future purchasers, mortgagees, occupiers, and users of residential property located within the Aircraft Noise/Land Use Control Zones disclose perceived aircraft noise impacts."

This was the recommendation from the OSCAR Public Policy Committee (Tim Weisheyer, Chair, and Kristy Bolin, Vice-Chair) based on the rationale that the amount of aircraft noise perceived to impact the areas highlighted within the Aircraft Noise/Land Use Control Zones is not significant enough to require a title disclosure. Requiring additional disclosure of such a factor could impose an undue stigma on existing property structures located within the designated areas and set precedent for increased consumer cost for new property structures in the future.

I received a call from the County Manager’s office informing me that the OSCAR position statement letter has been distributed to all the County Commissioners. A workshop has been scheduled for May 17, 2010 at 3 p.m. I encourage Osceola REALTOR® members to attend.

This is a great example of OSCAR advancing our Strategic Plan by establishing our organization as the trusted voice in local real estate.

OSCAR Welcomes Permanent AE

2010-03-05T12:47:00.000-08:00

On Monday, March 1, 2010, OSCAR officially welcomed our new Association Executive (AE), Carol K Platt, CRB, who is a 30 year veteran of the local real estate industry. She is a former REALTOR® and was a resident of Osceola County in the past. Carol has served as chair of the Polk Community College Board of Trustees and the Florida Association of Community College Trustees Commission working in public policy advocacy on a variety of issues. She has a special interest in our professional association due to her past service at the South Brevard Association of REALTORS® and as 2007 President of the East Polk County Association of REALTORS®.

Originally from North Carolina, Carol is married to Shane Platt, chief appraiser for Farm Credit of Central Florida and they have two children, Joshua and Jenna. She looks forward to working with OSCAR members.

A meet and greet Open House for all members is currently being organized. Please join me in welcoming Carol to the Association and giving our Interim AE, Manny Malolos, a fond farewell.

Why Join Us at Great American REALTOR® Days?

2010-03-05T12:44:00.000-08:00

My personal experience during my participation in the past years has been very rewarding. It made me feel so proud to be a REALTOR® engaged in the process of shaping public policy that affects our local community which directly cascades into my day to day business.
I would like to personally encourage all our members to participate in the upcoming Great American REALTOR® Days in Tallahasee on April 6-7, 2010. You willl be able to meet with your legislators to discuss issues of interest to REALTORS® and all Florida residents. Come and be counted - express your concerns as a member of the diverse REALTOR® community.
For details on how to participate, contact the Association directly at 407-846-0117.

Osceola Schools Superintendent invites REALTORS® to a Round Table

2010-03-05T12:41:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, February 26, 2010, Superintendent of Osceola Schools, Dr. Michael Grego, hosted a Round Table discussion where several Osceola REALTORS® were invited. I was in attendance at this meeting together with some of OSCAR’s Directors and general members. Dr. Grego wanted to hear about what the current concerns are in our local real estate industry as they relate to the Osceola school system. Buyers are still very much concerned about the health of the local school system and it was great to hear about the significant improvement of our schools in the recent months since Dr. Grego was hired. Osceola students are scoring at higher levels. Class of 2009 SAT scores are higher than the national average. To see the Superintendent’s report click here (or copy & paste on your browser)

http://www.osceola.k12.fl.us/depts/community/documents/DecemberProgressReport09.pdf

OSCAR is proud to be a part of conversations that affect our local community.

NAR Reports Short Sales Initiative

2010-02-19T03:52:00.000-08:00

A new program called the Home Affordable Foreclosure Avoidance Program (HAFA) takes effect on or before April 5, 2010. According to NAR “The purpose of the program is to help homeowners, who are unable to retain their homes under the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP), avoid foreclosure through a short sale or a deed in lieu of foreclosure. HAFA includes uniform procedures, standards forms, and deadlines. This program has the potential to revolutionize short sales, but its success will depend on the implementation by servicers and cooperation by investors and subordinate lien holders. Fannie and Freddie are tweaking the rules for their own programs—their variations are expected soon." Information about short sales, including HAFA, is available on
http://www.realtor.org/realtors/basics_short_sales?wt.mc_id=rd0041

AE Search Well Underway!

2010-02-19T03:35:00.000-08:00

AE Search Task Force Chair, Jose Alvarez, reports that they have reviewed over 200 resumes from local and out of state applicants. They have narrowed down the choice to 6 qualified candidates. Interviews have been held and the Task Force confidently reports that the final candidates have shown excellence in the interview process.

I personally look forward to the AE Search Task Force’s recommendation to the Board of Directors at the upcoming meeting on February 24, 2010. Our association is grateful to Chairman Jose Alvarez, Treasurer Jerry Kelley, President-Elect Tim Weisheyer, Vice-President Renee Clark, Director Kemp Howland and Past President Hope Andrews for the many volunteer hours spent on the search for the best possible candidate for the permanent Association Executive position.

Very special thanks to Past President and REALTOR of the Year, Mike Levine, for going above and beyond the call of duty coordinating efforts in this very important process!

OSCAR Now a REBAC Licensed Course Provider

2010-02-19T03:31:00.000-08:00

Interim AE, Manny Malolos, reports that OSCAR is now a REBAC licensed Course Provider. REBAC stands for “Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council” and was acquired by NAR in 1996. It is reportedly the largest of NAR’s Institutes, Societies, and Councils.

According to NAR “REBAC-licensed course providers enjoy the best of both worlds—they deliver top-notch real estate education opportunities to their current and prospective members while also earning an exceptional source of non-dues revenue. Over 30 courses are available through the REBAC delivery system.”

The Knowledge Services Committee will be charged with reviewing the education offerings and recommending the most relevant classes that we will offer at OSCAR.

Special thanks to Mr. Malolos for his diligence in delivering this great benefit to the members of our Association.

Haiti Relief Donations Update

2010-02-19T03:29:00.000-08:00

Comptroller, Bob St. Gordon, reports that aside from the $1,000 already donated to the NAR Haiti Relief Fund, OSCAR has collected and donated another $800+ from the recent online drive.

I encourage everyone to continue to give to this cause. The need for Haiti is high and every penny donated will help rebuild its nation. If you would like to participate in this humanitarian effort through your local REALTOR family, you may do so by using your member login on the OSCAR website www.osceolarealtors.org (contributions). Thank you!

BOD Re-Addresses Conflict of Interest

2010-02-05T13:56:00.000-08:00

At my request, the OSCAR Board of Directors re-addressed the conflict of interest issue during the January 2010 meeting. The issue involves the fact that my husband, Manny Malolos, is the current Interim Association Executive. To protect the membership from possible risks, the BOD voted to allow the Treasurer, Jerry Kelley, to take over all financial responsibilities from the President. The BOD also voted to allow President-Elect, Tim Weisheyer, to have direct supervision of the Interim AE.

Manny Malolos was hired by the BOD prior to the news that I had to step up to the 2010 OSCAR President position. Manny has an extensive business and management background, having retired at age forty-three as the Country Manager (Philippines) of Sandvik AB, a Multi-National Engineering and Specialty Steel company with 30% global market share during his employment.

Manny is on a limited contract with OSCAR while the AE Search Committee is tasked with hiring a permanent AE.

$200 Foreclosure Registration Ordinance Update

2010-02-05T13:51:00.000-08:00

City manager, Mark Durbin, and City Commissioner (and OSCAR Past President) Cheryl Grieb were in attendance at this week’s Tuesday morning OSCAR meetings at the association main room. Our Public Policy Committee coordinated a presentation from FPRC, the third party company which proposed a $200 Foreclosure Registration Ordinance. This ordinance was supposed to have had its second reading on Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010.

The room was packed with concerned Realtors. In attendance were the top three Osceola REO Brokers/Agents Tim St. Gordon (Florida Realty Results), Linda Goodwin (Goodwin Realty) and Dorothy Buse (Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty). Most other Realtors in the room either list or sell REO properties.

The discussion was robust and resulted in a request for continuance on the issue. The Kissimmee City Commissioners voted on the continuance to further study the issue, with the help of Osceola Realtors. I was in attendance at that evening’s City Commissioners meeting in the Kissimmee City Hall with OSCAR’s Public Policy Committee, headed by Chair and President-Elect, Tim Weisheyer. I addressed Mayor Swan and the City Commissioners and thanked them for the opportunity for our Realtors to voice their concerns regarding this issue.

The City manager has requested an OSCAR Task Force to work with commissioners to further study this issue.

OSCAR IN GREAT FINANCIAL SHAPE

2010-02-05T08:23:00.000-08:00

During the last BOD meeting, Treasurer Jerry Kelley and Comptroller Bob St. Gordon, reported that OSCAR generated annual revenue in excess of $150,000 as of November 2009. In the midst of difficult financial times our 2009 Board of Directors, with the leadership of Past President Jose Alvarez, did a great job in keeping our organization financially sound. We thank them and the staff for their diligence, hard work and fiscal responsibility.

OSCAR BOD Endorses Past President Jose Alvarez

2010-02-04T07:46:00.000-08:00

OSCAR BOD Endorses Past President Jose Alvarez as Candidate for FR 2011 District 12 VP

We are pleased to announce that immediate past-president Jose Alvarez was one of fifteen individuals selected for the 2010 Florida Realtors Leadership Academy. Mr. Alvarez joins past-president and OSCAR 2009 REALTOR® of the Year Mike Levine, both chosen from twenty-two applicants from all over the state of Florida.

During the recent Florida REALTORS® Mid-Winter meetings, Mr. Alvarez announced his candidacy for the Florida Realtors 2011 District 12 Vice-President position. OSCAR member Steve Moreira is the current District 12 Vice-President. The OSCAR Board of Directors voted recently to endorse Mr. Alvarez’ candidacy.

We wish him all the best in this endeavor.

Susie Graves Appointed to OSCAR Board of Directors

2010-02-04T07:33:00.000-08:00

At the January 2010 meeting the BOD ratified the appointment of Susie Graves as the newest Director. Susie has served on the OSCAR Knowledge Services Committee for 4 years and was co-chair in the last 2 years. She is currently the Chair for the New Member Welcome Committee and has been an OSCAR member for 7 years. She is a Broker-Associate at Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty.

She has also served as a board member for the local Rotary Club, the American Cancer Society, and the Center for The Arts. Susie has served for fifteen years as an Elder of the St. Cloud Presbyterian Church. She held the positions of Controller and Associate Director for the Council On Aging. Susie received a Bachelors Degree in Accounting from UCF.

Susie was sworn in last week by Florida Realtors 2009 District 12 Vice-President, Hope Andrews. Congratulations, Susie!

All fifteen seats on the OSCAR Board of Directors are now filled, and we look forward to a fruitful and stable 2010.

Kissimmee Commissioners Raise Two Realtor Issues

2010-01-29T07:57:00.000-08:00

City of Kissimmee City Commission Raise 2 Issues that Directly Affect Osceola Realtors

Last week, I attended the City of Kissimmee City Commission public meeting with President-Elect, Tim Weisheyer, specifically to hear the first reading of the ordinance that will require a $200 registration fee for all foreclosed properties within the Kissimmee city limits. OSCAR is monitoring this proposal, as it will directly affect our local Osceola REO Realtors. Our Public Policy Committee will be actively engaged in this. We have received several inquiries from OSCAR members who have expressed interest in becoming a member of a panel that will study this issue.

On another front, City of Kissimmee City Commissioner Carlos Irizarry, a friend to OSCAR, raised the Business Tax Receipt issue for Osceola Realtors. OSCAR Past President and current City Commissioner Cheryl Grieb spoke in favor of the city considering the possibility of waiving this mandatory tax. The City of Kissimmee City Commission has decided to study this further.

This year, one the main goals of your Board of Directors is to monitor, communicate and shape local government policy. It is our vision to be the local voice of Real Estate.

OSCAR Donates $1,000 to the NAR Relief Fund (Haiti)

2010-01-26T18:26:00.000-08:00

In light of the horrific disaster in Haiti, your Board of Directors recently voted to donate $1,000 to the NAR Relief Fund, to benefit victims of the recent earthquake, through our Osceola REALTOR® Foundation.

We ask that every member participate in this relief effort by making a monetary contribution through our own Foundation. Due to staff limitations, we are unable to take contributions that are non-monetary at this time.

• To donate by Visa/Mastercard, click here
• Checks can be made out to OSCAR

We understand there are many organizations that can take your donation for this relief effort. However, we encourage you to make your contribution through your local association. It is safe, secure and allows us to participate in this humanitarian effort as a REALTOR® family.

Your Board of Directors and Officers are proud to serve such a giving group of REALTORS® and we appreciate your support of this outreach initiative.

Introducing the OSCAR Toastmasters Club

2010-01-26T18:20:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to announce that, with the help of Past President Nick Nichols and Sandy Geroux of WOWplace, International (http://www.thewowplace.com/), OSCAR will be launching our very own Toastmasters Club. It will be a weekly club that will meet at the Association Main Room and will eventually become a local Toastmasters Club Chapter.

Nick Nichols has kindly offered to sponsor the OSCAR Chapter dues. Members will be able to participate in training for public speaking, which will help raise the professionalism of Osceola Realtors. What an awesome benefit to our members!

Please stand by for further details.

Osceola County Manager Requests Opinion of OSCAR

2010-01-26T18:18:00.000-08:00

Osceola County Manager, Mike Freilinger, called a meeting through our Public Policy Chair, Tim Weisheyer, to discuss a possible ordinance that requires homeowners to disclose to Buyers the airplane noise level that affects their home prior to sale. As your President, I was in attendance at that meeting. Mr. Freilinger is requesting an official statement of opinion from OSCAR regarding this matter as he suspects this type of ordinance would have a direct effect on home values in our County. Orange County has already passed a similar ordinance in the OIA area.

I have charged the Public Policy Committee to study this important issue further (local Affiliate Appraisers included) and to make a Committee recommendation to the Executive Committee for consideration. Once the Board of Directors votes on this, I will be issuing an official statement of opinion on behalf of our Osceola Realtors regarding this matter.

President Malolos' Inaugural Speech

2010-01-26T18:15:00.000-08:00

Good evening, good folks of Osceola County! And to those of you who are not from our county, it is okay, you can stay and play with us tonight.

I hope you don’t mind that I start by recognizing the VIP’s in my life. My Pastor, Duke Matlock and his wife, Kelley are here with us this evening. The agents and staff from our company, Home Envy Florida, Inc. are here with us tonight. One of my vey best friends, Heather, is here with her daughter, Rebekah. Two of my sisters, Victoria and Rosa are here with their husbands, Charlie and Mario. My mother-in-law, Amparo, is here and so is our dear friend, Felisa. Have you guys seen our 5 good looking kids tonight? Yes, between my husband and me, we have been busy. I also wanted to recognize the most handsome guy in this place tonight. No, it isn’t you, Richard Knapp, it’s my husband and most loyal supporter, Manny Malolos.

I also want to thank all the people who helped make this event such a success. To our MC, David Alba, thank you for sharing your talent and time to OSCAR. Florida Realtors 2010 District 12 Vice-President, Steve Moreira, thank you so much for your loyal support of OSCAR through these many years. Our son, Vincent, helped Mommy prepare her powerpoint and speech. Thank you, Anak (that means “child” in Filipino). I want to make special mention of our staff member, Yessica, who has worked tirelessly on the powerpoints, invitations and registration, name it she had her hand in it. She really does deserve a big round of applause. Thank you, Yessica. Our Comptroller, Bob Gordon, has been instrumental in getting every detail in order not just for this banquet but for every one of the ten years he’s been with us. Let’s hear it for Bob. Vice-President, Renee Clark and Secretary, Kim Goodwin….what a help you’ve been, thank you both for your advice and guidance. President-Elect, Tim Weisheyer, thank you for following up with our elected officials and for your exemplary leadership. Board Director, Daisy Cid…thank you so much for taking each one of my calls these last few days and being a friend to me. The room looks so elegant, thank you! Director Kemp Howland, thank you for your willingness to help me whenever I’ve needed it. Florida Realtors 2009 District 12 Vice President, Hope Andrews, my dear, dear friend, thank you so much for your expertise in planning this event and mostly for your love and support. President Jose Alvarez and the 2009 Board of Directors, your encouragement and support do not go unnoticed and I thank you for all that you do for our members. Let’s give everyone of them another big round of applause!

Tonight our theme is “Let’s Forge Ahead in 2010”. The word “forge” means to advance gradually but steadily. That is exactly what your leadership team is going to do in the coming year. We fully intend to advance with our recently adopted 3 year Strategic Plan. Our movement will be gradual but deliberate, steady and thoughtful. Let me highlight a few of the goals that we as your Leadership Team intend to achieve in the next three years.

Firstly, and most importantly, is “member services”; The retention and recruitment of Realtor members will be based on a memorable service in every contact. We will strive to develop the three phases of the member experience. We will continue to promote strategic partnerships with our Affiliate members and have more Board involvement.

One of the largest challenges we have had over the last few years has been in communicating with our members effectively through electronic media. As your 2010 President, I will be launching the OSCAR President’s Blog with the help of Director, Kemp Howland, as my editor and I will deliver to you the most current and relevant information that affects you as a valued member. I will keep you abreast of Board decisions and report any issues that might be of interest to you. You will be able to send me comments and suggestions quickly and effectively. The only thing I ask is that your comments be constructive rather then destructive, positive rather than negative.

Secondly, we will continue to deliver the very best free education to our members, develop a Toastmasters Club with the help of Past President Nick Nichols, continue to strengthen our Leadership Academy with the help of the Past President’s Council and get involved in Leadership Osceola. We will maximize the benefit of our website for our members, help strengthen ethics and professionalism of our members and continue the partnership with Valencia Community College that our Past President Jose Alvarez had so strongly encouraged.

Thirdly, we are proud and blessed to have the leadership of President-Elect, Tim Weisheyer, who has been a strong advocate of public policy and government affairs. We will monitor, communicate and shape local policy. We will work to ensure Realtor appointees in advisory boards, have grassroots involvement aligned with the Florida Realtors and The National Association of Realtors. And yes, we will have a strong Realtor Political Action Committee under the leadership of 2010 Vice-President, Renee Clark.

Fourthly, we will promote community awareness and involvement through our Osceola Realtor Foundation, promote the Realtor brand locally and position OSCAR as the leading Trade Association in Osceola.

With regards to Association Operations, we vow to continue to maintain fiscal responsibility, create strong consistent committee structure and a strong Board partnership with the staff.

Make no mistake, Osceola Realtors. Your Leadership Team is strong, dedicated and committed to serve you in the best possible way!

I don’t know about you but I love being a Realtor. In these challenging times, it is the Realtor who helps the single Mom raising 4 kids on her own get through negotiations with a bank as she is threatened by foreclosure. It is the Realtor and other professionals in our industry who help move short sales along, shrinking inventory and helping stabilize home values. It is the Realtor who assists banks in maintaining distressed properties, therefore helping the surrounding community. It is the Realtor who helps Buyers take advantage of and fought for the First Time Home Buyer Tax credit or just get a really great deal on a home!

Yes, these last few years have been difficult for our nation, our members and our Association. But we can only look ahead to a brighter tomorrow. Some of you who know me have asked me “How do you do it, Veronica? You have gone through the devastating experience of a child with cancer and a business that almost died with the economy”. Some of you may call it faith. My good friend, Bud, might even call it “The Secret”. Some of you might say it’s just pure good luck. But I choose to believe that God still heals children of cancer and I will tell you that this is the same God who will turn this economy and businesses around!

Our nation was built on a foundation of trust in God. If you have forgotten, pull out a dollar bill from your wallet. Go ahead, any denomination. Look closely and you will see the words “In God We Trust”. So tonight join me as we trust God or better yet as we thank him in advance for all the glorious things He is about to do for our nation, our great state of Florida, Osceola County and the Realtors that serve this community. Thank you!

AWARDS & INSTALLATION BANQUET

2010-01-26T18:08:00.000-08:00

On January 9, 2010, OSCAR’s new Board of Directors and Officers were officially installed by Installing Officer Steve Moreira (Florida Realtors 2010 District 12 Vice-President) at the Awards and Installation Banquet held in the Radisson Hotel, Celebration. It was an evening of honor with a total of 17 awards given that evening. The most prestigious “2010 Realtor of the Year” award was given to Past President and Immediate Past Treasurer, Mike Levine (Broker of Century 21 World Properties), a truly deserving recipient for his outstanding service to our Association and community as an Osceola Realtor.

To see the complete list of the 2010 OSCAR Board of Directors and Officers click here

Other awards given that evening were as follows:
1. Realtor Star of the Year – Director Kemp Howland (Prudential Sapphire Realty), for outstanding service as Technology Chair. He singlehandedly rebuilt our OSCAR website saving our members an estimated $25,000.
2. Realtor Rising Star of the Year – President-Elect Tim Weisheyer (Dream Builders Realty), for outstanding contributions as OSCAR’s 2009 Public Policy Chair.
3. Lifetime Realtor Membership Award – Linda Goodwin (Goodwin Realty & Associates). Linda has been an Osceola Realtor for 37 years and has contributed greatly to our Association as our Past President and through her continued involvement through her many years as our member.
4. Presidential Service Award – Past President Jose Alvarez (One Way Realty, Inc)
5. Real Estate Office of the Year – Goodwin Realty & Associates, Inc.
6. Affiliate Office of the Year – MortgageOne Financial Services
7. Affiliate of the Year – Betty Dobbie, Prominent Title
8. Exemplary Service Awards – Directors David DeLoach (DeLoach Real Estate) and Richard Knapp (Remax Pros)

There were also four Presidential awards given by our Past President, Jose Alvarez, to Florida Realtors 2009 District 12 Vice-President Hope Andrews, 2009 Treasurer Mike Levine, Past President Nick Nichols and President Jose’s lovely wife, Darlene Roucoulet.

Realtor Political Action Committee (RPAC) Co-Chairs, Renee Clark (Clark Investment Properties) and Kim Goodwin (Goodwin Realty), gave four RPAC Committee Awards to Director Daisy Cid (Remax Premier Properties), Director David Courtney (Remax Premier Properties), Past President Hope Andrews (Prudential Sapphire Realty) and Bettie Dobbie (Prominent Title). RPAC Sponsors Appreciation Awards were also given to Beverage Sponsor Goodwin Realty and Food Sponsor Stewart Approved Title. RPAC Honorary Committee Member Appreciation Awards were given to John Smoley (MortgageOne Financial Services) and Richard Knapp (Remax Pros). RPAC Staff Appreciation Awards were given to Yessica Colon and Anneris Rivera (Member Services) and Bob St. Gordon (Comptroller).

I would like to personally thank all our Installation Banquet Major Sponsors (SILVER SPONSORS Total Title Solutions, MFRMLS, Attorney Charles Castellon, GOLD SPONSORS Frank’s Air Conditioning, Qubty Financial, Osceola News Gazette and TITANIUM SPONSOR MortgageOne Financial Services) for their generosity and support. I would also like to thank David Alba of VBA Consulting, Inc., for doing a phenomenal job as our MC. Special thanks go out to Steve Moreira, Pastor Duke Matlock and our son, Vincent Capuano-Malolos.

As well, thank you all for receiving my speech so well.
To read my Inaugural Speech click here

To the Installation Task Force (Daisy Cid, Renee Clark, Kim Goodwin and Hope Andrews) and our wonderful OSCAR Staff, thank you so much for making this such a memorable evening for our members and guests. The attendees also very much enjoyed the Magician/Comedian, Dan Stapleton. To view photos of the banquet click here .

2009 YEAR END COMMITTEES REPORT

2010-01-11T14:25:00.000-08:00

As 2009 Vice-President, I served as Committees Liaison. I am pleased to have presented this year-end report to the final 2009 Board of Directors meeting in December.

Under the leadership of President Jose Alvarez, perhaps the biggest achievement of the Board and Staff is that our Association stayed within its budget without sacrificing any of the services to which our members have become accustomed. Here is a snapshot of the Committees contributions in 2009:

The MLS Marketing Committee has resurrected the Tuesday morning meetings, with attendance running from 30 to 47 members at every meeting. Congratulations and thanks to Chairman Nick Nichols.
The Public Policy Committee has been very strong this year under the leadership of Chairman Tim Weisheyer, bringing us up-to-date information from our city, county and sometimes state elected officials. Member participation in this committee is strong and will be even stronger in 2010.
Knowledge Services Chairperson Denise Sacks has done a tremendous job in getting the Valencia partnership (a brainchild of President Alvarez) underway. The committee, with Vice-Chair, Susie Graves, coordinated a Green Expo that will be repeated in 2010We are confident that their work will result in even more progress and success in the new year.
The Affiliates Committee has done an exemplary job in raising awareness and funds for Help Now Osceola, President Alvarez' charity of choice. We thank Chairperson Eva Gordon and Vice-Chair Rick Blubaugh for their contributions.
We have a new, improved website. Technology Committee Chairman Kemp Howland singlehandedly rebuilt the OSCAR website into a portal that has received rave reviews from our members for being so Realtor©-friendly. Thank you, Kemp, for giving so much of your valuable talent, time and energy for the great benefit of our members!
It has been my honor to serve as the Osceola Brokerage Cooperative (OBC) Chair with Vice-Chair, Tim Weisheyer. This year we had four well attended Broker Round Tables servicing our broker community. Together with the OBC Vision Team, the OBC is confident that it can deliver a much needed service for our experienced members and brokers.
The Realtor© Political Action Committee (RPAC), directed by Co-Chairs, Renee Clark and Kim Goodwin, raised over $16,000 (?) at this year’s RPAC auction. Thanks to these outstanding ladiese for an awesome job.
The International Committee (Chair, Abby Barboza), the Young Professionals Network (Chair, Andrey Bustamante, and Vice-Chair, Carrie Escobar) and the New Member Welcome Committees (Chair, Tim Weisheyer) continued to provide in 2009 the much needed attention to our new and developing members. Congratulations and thank you!
The Past President’s Council has been busy this year mentoring and helping further develop our leadership. A big thank you to our past presidents!
The Osceola Realtor© Foundation donated an estimated $8,000 to various charities and other foundations this year. This is a tremendous contribution to our community.
Standing Committees, Professional Standards, Grievance, Budget & Finance, Awards and Nominating have all kept our members either in line or recognized this year. Thank you to Chairs, Hemendra Thakkar, Bill McCombs, Mike Levine, and Hope Andrews!

OSCAR B.O.D. ADOPT TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT POLICY

2010-01-11T14:21:00.000-08:00

Policies Chair Karen Dierickx submitted for approval OSCAR’s updated travel reimbursement policy.

At the direction of Interim Association Executive, Manny Malolos, and with the approval of President Alvarez, this policy was reviewed and updated to further clarify travel reimbursement procedures and guidelines for members doing business on behalf of our Association.

Comptroller Bob St.Gordon did extensive research on this issue and presented guidelines based on IRS, Florida Realtors and National Association of Realtors existing travel reimbursement policies.

The Board of Directors voted in favor of adopting this new policy in December 2009.

2009 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECT TWO!

2010-01-11T14:14:00.000-08:00

2009 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECT DIRECTOR, TIM WEISHEYER, AS 2009 VICE-PRESIDENT
AND PAST PRESIDENT, RENEE CLARK,
AS 2010 VICE-PRESIDENT

Due to the vacancy caused by the resignation of Len Goffredo (2009 President-Elect), the Board of Directors, per our association by-laws, is required to fill the position of 2009 Vice-President. The by-laws stipulate an automatic step-up for Vice-President (Veronica Malolos) to President-Elect. Director Tim Weisheyer, who is the elected 2010 Vice-President, was the selection of the Board of Directors as 2009 Vice-President. This selection allows Tim to step into the office of President-Elect in 2010, in keeping with our by-laws.

This action left a void in the position of 2010 Vice-President, which also carries responsibilities as Committees Liaison and RPAC Chair. The Board of Directors selected Past President Renee Clark to fill the position of 2010 Vice-President. Past President Clark, is a great candidate for this position. Our membership is honored that she continues to willingly serve our members in these capacities. We thank her for volunteering to take on these responsibilities to insure the ongoing stability for our Association.

This past December 2009, the Board of Directors showed overwhelming support for these two candidates by electing them to these positions. Tim Weisheyer will be installed as 2010 President-Elect and Renee Clark as 2010 Vice-President at the Installation Banquet on Saturday, January 9th.