Bart Stevens reports: On the outside, Day 3 dawned bright and sunny, but a little on the windy side. Inside, we prepared for the final morning of Convention ... rushing around gets thinks packed and in the car before arriving at breakfast where we enjoyed a lovely buffet, an industry update from Ron Phipps, 2010 NAR President-Elect and, finally, the ever entertaining Ms. Sheryl Gregory - of prize give-away fame.
Thanks to all the boards and councils that provided prizes and especially Machias Savings Bank for the $500 grand prize. Unfortunately I was not nearly as lucky in the prize category this year as last year - in fact I won NOTHING!! Never confuse me as one to hold a grudge, although thankfully I had the car to myself all the way home to sulk in private!
Thanks also to all the sponsors of this year's convention - without the exhibits, sponsorships and hospitality suites, convention just wouldn't be the same.
After breakfast it was one last class - a choice between Linda Gifford's updates on form changes, energy efficiency, or learning a little bit about twittering, tweeting and all those things!
The convention was a resounding success. Attendance was down slightly but saw a last minute uptick as many were feeling a bit better about our financial situations than when registration first began. Thanks to Cindy, Tanya, Suzanne, Lynn, Chris, Pat and Tammy for making things look so easy. The convention committee also did an outstanding job. Putting one of these events on requires a lot of behind the scenes work.
Special thanks go to Kennebec Valley's very own Tammy LaPierre. Not only is she our Board's AE but she's also the central person for the Maine Chapter of CRS. Tammy does a phenomenal job!
Before you know it we will be arriving in Bar Harbor for our 2010 convention!! In the meantime have an enjoyable, and hopefully busy fall. I hope to see many next month in beautiful San Diego, CA for the NAR convention!
Signing off 'til next time - Bart Stevens, 2009 President, Maine Chapter of CRS
Saturday, October 10, 2009
MAR Convention: Day 3 Report
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
MAR Convention: Day 2
Bart Stevens reports: Well another MAR Convention is rapidly coming to an end - but not before another day filled with education, networking and fun! Day 2 (or 3 for some) was jam packed with opportunities - beginning with an early morning opportunity to have breakfast and visit the exhibitors and ending with a "Party Like it's 1999" dance. In between was opportunity to learn - national speaker Bernice Ross on trends; foreclosures; legal updates with the ever popular (and informative) Linda Gifford; industry updates; and tech time with MREIS.
The banquet, emceed by Chris Philbrook and Michelle Flaherty, gave us the opportunity to watch the installation of the 2010 officers: Pres Elect Mike LePage, First VP Tina Lucas, MAR First Vice President; and Gail Rizzo, President of MREIS.
Special congratulations to my business partner and the next President of the Maine Association of REALTORS - Marc Chadbourne! Ron Phipps, 2010 President Elect of the National Association of REALTORS traveled up from RI to perform Marc's installation.
1999 NAR President Sharon Millett (of Maine) presented MAR President Rita Yarnold with a special gift from NAR President Charles McMillan. From there it was onto recognizing the Local Board/Council REALTORS of the Yea. 2005 MAR President Tobin Malone and Leanne Nichols recognized each ROTY and presented beautiful crystal awards.
All this led to the highlight of the evening - the announcement of the State REALTOR of the Year. Don Plourde had the privilege of presenting this year's award to a member Kennebec Valley Board of REALTORS: Marc Chadbourne of Century 21 Nason Realty in Winslow. Congratulations Marc!! This was a banner day for Marc - he started off by winning a GPS in the exhibitor drawings, moved on to be installed as the next President of MAR, and ended the evening as the newest inductee into the State REALTOR of the Year Hall of Fame - what more could one ask for?!
Tomorrow wraps things up for this year's Convention. Special kudos and thanks to this year's Convention Committee for a job well done!
Bart Stevens, 2009 President - Maine Chapter of CRS
Pictured: Ron Phipps, Marc Chadbourne; Art Gary, MAR President Rita Yarnold; Tobin Malone, Bart Stevens
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
MAR Convention: CRS Class, CRS Annual Meeting
Note: On first day of the MAR Convention, students have option of taking regular convention courses or an additional one-day CRS course. This report is about CRS.
Today's class, "Maximizing Your Potential -Personally and Professionally" was very well received. Comments indicate that everyone walked away energized. The subject matter was in not new but made us sit back and rethink where we want to be in a year or more. How do you manage stress? How much stress is actually good for you? How important is a "real" life outside of real estate? What motivates you? The importance of life planning and goal setting. Are you a goal setter? (Note: Most people are not!) Written goals are essential to a successful balanced life. Time management - the benefits, values and objectives - why do most people find time management difficult? Thank you to instructor Mark Given.
After the dreaded "test" it was on to Chapter business - the Maine Chapter of CRS Annual Meeting. The first item of business was to recognize CRS Designee John Lane as Realtor Emeritus. John joined REALTORS in 1959!! Fifty continuous years as a Realtor and a charter member of the Maine CRS. John was present for both classes, is still very active and credits his success in the business to listening, adapting and never passing up an opportunity to learn something new. I had the privilege of presenting John with a beautiful pin and certificate.
Monday, October 5, 2009
MAR Pre-Convention: Going Green, Going CRS
Bart Stevens reports: Thirty-two REALTORS from around Maine chose to leave their warm beds early this morning to get a jump start on MAR Convention activities. They all have one thing in common - CRS (Certified Residential Specialist). Each is either a CRS designee already (17) or at a stage of receiving the CRS designation - last class for one person, first class for several others.
Monday at 8:30 a.m. found us at the Samoset already hard at work at learning how to "Be Green" and how to "Make Green" ($$). Mark Given, national CRS instructor, traveled from NC to share 2 days of class instruction. Today -"Going Green"; tomorrow - CRS 103 "Maximize Your Potential."
Today's class taught ways to assure we are thought of as the source when someone has a question about being green or going green. It's nearly impossible to open a paper or turn on TV without some reference to Green. And, it's all encompassing - can mean a simple effort at having a more efficient home (changing to CFL's, wrapping a water heater, low flow aerators, etc.) or more complex, such as orienting a new home's direction, solar, wind, geothermal, VOC's or chemical free. Everyone can make a noticeable difference beginning at a very small cost.
Notable statistic: Who is the most likely candidate interested in green? Interestingly enough it's the younger, educated female.
CRS Designees represent 3-5% of all REALTORS nationally. Here in Maine we fall into the mid-range of 4%. CRS offers some of the best instructors in the business, and many of the most popular subject matter. CRS Designees are a close group - very willing to share their knowledge - such as, what has worked and what has not worked for them. We WANT our fellow designees to succeed.
Many REALTORS, including me, work for large franchise companies - but when it comes to referrals we look for the CRS designation first. A CRS Designee knows how much time another CRS has put into education, staying on the cutting edge and knowing what it takes to keep clients satisfied. That knowledge is a crucial consideration when referring valuable clients to another.
I encourage you to check out the CRS designation at your earliest opportunity. The Maine Chapter of CRS has committed to bringing CRS courses and instructors to Maine on a regular basis - to assist in obtaining the skills necessary to stand out from the competition. We hope you take advantage at the earliest opportunity!!
Bart Stevens
2009 President -Maine Chapter of CRS (Council of Residential Specialists)
Century 21 Nason Realty, Winslow, ME
Monday, May 18, 2009
After NAR Midyear - More CRS (Day 7)
Bart Stevens reports: What a week - traveling beast that I am I never thought I'd hear myself say this but it's going to be really nice to be home! I miss the family but not sure about what faces me at the office.
Sunday was a busy day with the CRS Leadership luncheon. Each Region sat with their Regional VP to do some brainstorming. Region 1 consists of ME, MA and CT - there are no Chapters in the 3 other New England states. Nancy Rogers from Missouri has been assigned our regional VP for another 2-year term. Nancy will be coming to Maine in October to join us at our annual meeting. Disappointing as it is, learned we are not alone in membership issues and class cancellations. I heard this all weekend and it was confirmed at today's CRS Board of Directors meeting. CRS is close to a million dollars off on budget projections year to date (times like these really point out the need for associations to have a reserve fund).
A couple of final notes: Instead of a $20-25 taxi ride I decided to try the Metro to Reagan National Airport - it cost $1.35! Not bad if you don't mind dragging a suitcase around. And there are absolutely no lines at the airport 8 pm on a Sunday night!
Great week with an overload of information. Sure will be to sleep in my own bed. Signing off from Reagan National Airport. - Bart Stevens
Special Thanks: MAR sincerely thanks Bart Stevens (2009 President, Maine Chapter of CRS and 2009 Treasurer, MREIS) for his updates during the past 7 days in Washington, DC!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
NAR Midyear Meetings - Day 4
Bart Stevens reports: Thursday found us awaking to meetings and classes. President Rita Yarnold and President Elect Marc Chadbourne had early morning breakfasts with NAR leadership. Several members took advantage of our wonderful NAR building tours, while others participated in the MLS Policy meetings where "green" building features in MLS, short sales, IDX and other national MLS issues were discussed.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
NAR Midyear Meetings - Day 3
Day 3 started early with a Federal Issues briefing at 7:00 a.m., followed by business meetings. Linda Gifford needed to stay in Maine to work on several bills in the Maine legislature, so we were missing her. Barbara made a trip to the ER in DC due to breaking a bone in her foot last night - and quickly found that Hill Visit days aren't easy with crutches.
With our cost-saving efforts, we headed to a small Mexican restaraunt for Maine Night Out where we enjoyed fajitas, quesadillas, fried ice cream, flan ... and a margarita.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
NAR Midyear Meetings - Day 2
Bart Stevens reports: Another productive day. Sunny but chillier than I remember for DC this time of year. More Maine attendees arrived today. We had a wonderful dinner get together this evening at Cafe Paradiso (a Maine favorite for the past few years). Great chance to sit back, relax and chat with fellow Realtors - many of whom we see infrequently outside an event like this.
Several who arrived yesterday took part in the special NAR Housing Summit today. Since I was in day 2 of my Green Designation I wasn't able to attend but did here it was an interesting gathering. Perhaps someone else will be able to share more?
[Addition from MAR: the NAR Housing Summit included an announcement from HUD that the $8,000 tax credit can be used for FHA downpayment; a keynote by Alan Greenspan; and panels discussing potential solutions for housing recovery. A great event.]
I must share another interesting tidbit. Thrilling to me actually. It turns out Vice President Joe Biden was speaking to another group at the Hilton Washington (where my class was taking place). As we were breaking for lunch Biden was getting ready to leave the building and essentially no one was allowed in or out during his exit. Right place at the right time and without a camera, but lucky enough to get to shake hands with the VP!! Over in a flash though.
As for the Green class - I survived the exam - yippee! And in keeping with yesterday's "did you know"- Did you know 16 billion pounds of greenhouse gas could be eliminated each year just by placing every monitor in US homes in sleep mode when not in use? Did you know one ton of recycled paper will save 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water and 60 pounds of air pollution? Any idea what "greenwashing" is? Outstanding class and I hope we can bring it to Maine in the not too distant future.
An NAR survey shows that more than 90% of recent homebuyers thought energy efficiency was an important consideration when searching for a home. We can't do it all, or all at once, BUT we can begin to make a different step by small step, and day by day. Just think before doing.
Monday, May 11, 2009
NAR Midyear Meetings - Day 1
Bart Stevens reports: Just returned from a nice dinner at Murphy's Irish Pub with the early arrivees now in DC for the NAR Midyear Meetings. Sherry Gregory, Patti Lawton, Gail Rizzo, Georgia Chomas, JoAnn Higgins and Steve Winkler helped to make a rainy night here in DC a bit more warm (drenched by the time we got back to the hotel!)
After a 2 hour delay for the dreaded "mechanical problem" in Portland, I arrived in DC late last night. My early arrival coincided with my desire to earn NAR's new GREEN designation, with the core course being offered today and tomorrow. A full 8 hours each day, but if today was any sign, it will definitely be worth it! It rolled out in November 2008. Past MAR President Patti Lawton took the core course in Orlando and has since taken the required elective course making her the first (I believe) from Maine to earn the designation.
Today I joined about 75 others here in DC taking the first step towards the designation. It's a relatively easy designation to earn with a 2-day core course requirement followed by a 1-day elective in 3 different tracks - residential, commercial or property management. There is a test though so I may have a different opinion tomorrow!! The core course cost is $295 (those taking it here in DC we were offered the core course at $150, a great savings). The elective courses cost $125 and can be taken on line or in person. This is the first designation offered by NAR where the acronym is the same as the name of the actual designation.
Quick thoughts -
Are you familiar with Green Pricing and Net Metering? Did you know you can collect 625 gallons of rain water for every 1 inch of rain falling on a 1000 square foot roof? Ever heard of Xeriscaping (landscaping plants native to a specific area - dry climates)? How about the 2008 Yale Performance Index which ranks the US 39th out of 149 countries in sustainability? What makes a home or building "Green"? LEEDS certification? The list goes on and on and all of this just Day One. The instructor guarantees we will save the cost of this course in the first year just by implementing a few very common sense items.
We ended the day with Indoor Air Quality concerns - did you know those off the rack cabinets we place in our kitchens are one of the leading causes of VOC-volatile organic compounds? Ever comment on that new car smell, or that new home smell? That smell is volatile organic compounds - the very things which make so many people ill - with the numbers growing every day. Tomorrow promises to be another eye opener as we get more into the Green design, concepts, etc.
Bart Stevens is the 2009 President of the Maine Chapter of CRS; and Treasurer of MREIS
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Now More Than Ever ...
Bart Stevens reports: I'm home from NERC - that's New England REALTORS Conference for those of you wondering but afraid to ask! I joined 11 others from Maine, plus another 150 or so other REALTORS from around New England, for a day and a half of terrific information and training at the Sheraton Harborside in Portsmouth. Lovely hotel for those not familiar with it and just steps away from the historic downtown area of Portsmouth (reminds me of the Old Port!)
This year's theme was "Now More Than Ever" and hosted by NAR Region 1 Regional Vice President Bonnie Guevin (from the great state of NH, must be why we were in NH!) Note this quote:
"Though national headlines and made-for-TV sound bites would have us believe that this is a time for fear and paralysis, the world continues to move along. Life happens, and the need to convey real property happens right along with it. Yes, we live in uncertain times, with foreclosure rates high and consumer confidence low, but it is because of that very uncertainty that we, as the consummate industry professional, must be more prepared than ever for a public that needs us more than ever.
Now, more than ever -
.. Accurate information is critical
.. Is the time to buy, with an abundance of opportunities and great rates
.. Buyers and Sellers need REALTORS to navigate the buying and selling process
.. Members need the tools of their local, state and national associations
.. Our adherence to the Code of Ethics is paramount to our credibility and success
Now, more than ever is the time to double up our efforts as association leaders to deliver those products and services that will benefit our members during these times."
Quite a little phrase, and quite a conference. Geared towards leadership, this conference is open to any and all REALTORS.
This conference was both topical in nature and well run. With a nice mix of local presenters and NAR representatives the conference remained well paced. Some highlights: Several key volunteers including our own Ron Phipps from Rhode Island (who is NAR First VP) spoke on industry trends, and what NAR is doing to assist us - such as NAR's new "Right Tools, Right Time" program. Adorna Carroll did a session on "Effective Meeting Management" - topical because of the lack of volunteers and the lack of time of those who DO want to volunteer.
Scott Spaudling, former reporter spoke on "Dealing With The Media When They Come Calling To Discuss The Real Estate Market." Fantastic speaker who knew what he was preaching because he use to be one of them! Bottom line, we know more about real estate than reporters and they NEED us. Don't be afraid of the big bad media, BUT do prepare yourself!
Day One wrapped up (just before the mandatory cocktail hour) with comedian Jimmy Dunn - an hour of absolute laughter! A great stress breaker, and contrary to comments I am publicly stating Carolyn Chodat (she's my CRS President counterpart in MA) and I have never been to France together! You had to be there for that one!
Monday evening found the Mainers gathered at a great pizza place downtown for a relaxing dinner (fantastic food) and a chance to network and chat. We were joined by REALTOR Steve Brown of Ohio and will remain indebted to him for so kindly picking up the tab for us struggling Maine Realtors. Steve is the 2009 NAR VP & Liaison to Committees. With several people present that I don't regularly see or do business with, it was nice learning a bit more about them!
Day Two started with a session by Peter Francese on "New England Market Demographics." Most of us have heard Maine has the oldest population in the country, but he relayed this is not necessarily bad - as older people generally have more money. He did stress the need to stop the trend of youth moving away from Maine; and also touched on what the next generation is going to be looking for in a home, neighborhood, etc. Gone (most likely) are the days of bigger is better - "Green" is the new buzz word. They want earth-friendly homes, are very much aware of operating costs, etc. Very enlightening session!
Wrap us was done by NAR Legal Counsel Laurie Janik - always a great listen. I think she summed it up right from the start: "Bet you never thought you'd see the day when legal counsel was the one bright item on the agenda!" Lawsuits filed were way down this past year and most were won by the associations involved.
I've attended 6-8 NERC (some have blurred) conferences and my hat is off to the NH Association for a job well done!
REALTOR Bart Stevens (CENTURY 21 Nason, Winslow) is the 2009 President of the Maine Chapter of CRS and Treasurer of MREIS. Pictured: Maine REALTORS Marc Chadbourne, Bart Stevens, Ed Getty, John Bragg and Helen Fox
Click Here for Ron Phipps' blog post about the NERC Conference.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
E. Pat Foster is Maine's REALTOR of the Year
Friday, September 5, 2008
Republican National Convention - Day 4 Report
Andre Cushing reports: Well here we are at the final day of the GOP Convention ...
It's hard to believe as I sit here in the airport writing this that so much happened in so short a time. Another delegate said it well, “it feels like we have fit three weeks into one.” Our final day breakfast briefing was hosted by former Governor John McKernan and his wife Sen. Snowe. Our guest speaker was Frank Donatelli, Deputy Chair of the Republican Nat’l Committee. Frank served in two White Houses. He shared information on the historic nature of this election and what the results may mean to history.
During the day I went back to Civicfest to view more of exhibits and buy some convention memorabilia. I bought buttons, apparel, gift items and books then packed up 37 lbs of goodies and shipped them home (no lugging extra heavy bags on the plane.) I also went to a special appearance and book signing by former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and his wife. I even got to ask him a question during Q&A! It was about his thoughts on the comparison of Gov Palin to another young reform Governor who was nominated VP, one of my favorites Teddy Roosevelt.
I then attended a reception for hosted by the group Republicans for Environmental Protection, where Theodore Roosevelt, IV was the featured speaker. I was really looking forward to meeting him but our transportation bus got stuck in rush hour traffic and I arrived just after he left to catch a plane back to NY. Well maybe another time.
Onto the convention and the concluding night. Things started off with a host of speakers, one of special note was Maine’s own Charlie Summers, running for Congress in the 1st Congressional District. A host of other speakers took the stage leading up to the finale where our presidential nominee would speak.
A video shared parts of Sen. McCain's life story and service to his county. It was a moving look at the man and set a special mood for the evening. Following it, Sen. McCain stepped onto the stage and strode to a podium set on a runway which allowed him to be in the crowd while he spoke (something he is fond of doing.) After his speech he was joined on stage by his whole family and Gov Palin & family. The evening climaxed with lots of confetti and balloons. It was a remarkable night that left us both energized and then exhausted.
As I mentioned in my Day 1 blog this was the third National Convention I attended. It was an incredible experience and I would urge some of you to also consider attending a convention some day. It leaves you with a special feeling and a better understanding of this unique process by which Americans choose their leaders. It is fascinating to many in the world that our elected leader willingly subject themselves to such pressure and scrutiny to get the position; and then will voluntarily relinquish it at the end of their term. It gives one a greater appreciation extraordinary system of government that we live with.
Andre Cushing is a REALTOR with ERA Dawson Bradford in Bangor
Republican National Convention - Day 3
Andre Cushing reports: Hello again from Minneapolis/St Paul! Today was a full schedule of events starting with our Maine delegation breakfast briefing.
I visited Civicfest - which is a vibrant civic festival celebrating Minnesota and American history, democracy, and the U.S. Presidency. The event, produced by the Minneapolis Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee, features more than 35 exhibits including: historic memorabilia and artifacts, a scale model of the White House, a re-created Convention floor, a stage featuring live performances, an actual President’s official limousine, a full-scale replica of the White House Oval Office, multimedia and interactive exhibits featuring significant historical objects, an interactive kiosk that explores the lives and administrations of the twelve Presidents, and a 60,000 square-foot Marketplace.
This venue definitely will call for another day to explore it. I'm a real history buff and love looking at the displays and listening to the recordings of presidential speeches. There also were some great exhibits about Minnesota, history of businesses and noted figures. For example General Mills (who we all know for cereals) also was into aerospace and developed the ALVIN, the first deep diving submarine. Also the pacemaker, Post-it notes and Rollerblades were developed in Minnesota!
Today also is a full schedule of receptions. First at the invitation of Governor McKernan we attended “Republicans Supporting Higher Education," held at the Art Institute International Minnesota. The hurricane was still on our minds so I took some time to help with preparing comfort packs for delivery to the Gulf region. It was amazing to enter this big hall and see so many fellow delegates joining local volunteers at hundreds of tables assembling and pack these bags.
Then onto meet with my fellow REALTORS at the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) Reception where I met members of the NAR board and fellow delegates who are REALTORS. NAR President-Elect Charles McMillan welcomed us and shared that approximately 200 attendees to the convention are REALTORS which proved that we take public service very seriously and are willing to get involved. He also mentioned that several members of Congress have been or are REALTORS. Here's the link to the NAR site with information on both conventions, including interviews with attendees.
I attended a reception hosted by AT&T for the Maine & Vermont delegations where I met Vermont Governor Jim Douglas. Then time to go to the Xcel Center for the evening events. We heard from many speakers including former Maryland Lt.Gov. Michael Steele, who now chairs GOPAC. A special note: my daughter Grace (a senior at Simmons College) took a year sabbatical to work on his U.S. Senate race in 2006 and when she told his staff she was coming to the Convention he wanted her to work with him this week! She was able to help out and is really enjoying the convention (from a different perspective) travelling to media appearances and helping with his other speaking engagements.
The evening also saw NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Govs. Mitt Romney & Mike Huckabee and former Senator Fred Thompson take the stage. Finally the featured event - Gov. Sarah Palin addressed the convention and what a powerful speech she offered!! It was a great coming out for this interesting and energetic VP candidate. From what I have read her speech had the largest television viewership of its kind in history.
This was also the night that nominations are made by the different state delegations. Rep. Josh Tardy (Newport) is the Maine delegation chair and got to make the nomination speech for us. We all cheered when Maine came up! Here's a picture of us on the big screen!
Andre Cushing is a REALTOR with ERA Dawson Bradford in Bangor
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Day 2 Report - Republican National Convention
A Maine REALTOR's Report from Day 2 at the Republican National Convention:
Andre Cushing reports: Greetings again from Minneapolis. We opened the second day with a more traditional schedule. Now that the imminent danger from the hurricane has passed the focus transitioned to getting to know our candidate's background. We started with a breakfast meeting where we heard from several people who know John McCain: Carly Fiorina (former CEO of Hewlett Packard), Andy McCain, Dorcas Hardy (former commissioner for the Social Security Administration) and two military veterans, Retired Major General Ed Mechenbier (a fellow POW) and Captain Thomas Hudner spoke of his remarkable service.
Later in the day I attended a luncheon reception for legislators and candidates (I am running for a seat in the Maine House of Representatives to represent Hampden, Dixmont & Newburgh). I then did an interview with a blogger and a reporter for the Bangor Daily News on my campaign and my experience as a Mainer at the convention. After which it was time to head to the Xcel Center for the evening program.
The Tuesday schedule follows the theme proposed by Senator McCain of “Country First” and highlights the word “Service” in its offering of speakers, which included President George W. Bush (via satellite), First Lady Laura Bush, and others.
The most moving presentations to me were a special appearance by a gentleman Wes Gullett and his daughter, Mickey. They told the story of how Cindy McCain, while travelling in Bangladesh, stopped at Mother Theresa’s orphanage and was moved to adopt two babies with severe medical conditions and return them to the U.S. She and John adopted Bridget and their friends, the Gulletts, adopted Mickey. It offered a glimpse at the personal side of the McCains that we don’t always see in politics.
The politics heated up when featured speaker Sen. Fred Thompson took the stage and offered an energetic comparison of Senator McCain and Senator Obama. He brought the crowd to its feet repeatedly with his comments. Then Senator Joe Lieberman offered his endorsement and issued a call to Democrats and Independent voters to join him in supporting the McCain-Palin team. Another special moment came when Former President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush entered the hall. The entire convention paused as they were led to their seats to a warm ovation from those in attendance.
I must say this was a day was great experience even for someone like myself who has attended previous conventions.
Andre Cushing is a REALTOR with ERA Dawson Bradford in Bangor; pictured with Republican strategist Karl Rove
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Maine REALTOR Report from Republican Convention
MAR asked two Maine REALTORS attending the major political party conventions to report on their activities there. Both agreed. [Note: NAR and MAR do not take positions on presidential races, but housing and other real estate related issues are part of major party discussions.]
Here's the Day One report from the Republican Convention:
Greetings from the 39th quadrennial Republican Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota. My name is Andre Cushing and I am a REALTOR with ERA Dawson Bradford in Bangor, Maine. This is my third time attending a national convention (in 1980 I was a guest at the Detroit convention, 2004 I was a delegate in New York City, and this year I'm an alternate) and it is exciting to be at such a historic event.
This year's convention has been overshadowed by concern for events in the Gulf region as it has pummeled by Hurricane Gustav. Activities were shortened Monday at the request of Senator McCain to show respect for those who were facing adversity from the storm. The McCain campaign chartered a DC9 to ferry any delegates who wished to be back home to their states in the Gulf region to attend to their families and personal needs. A special response program has been set up at the Minneapolis Convention Center to prepare comfort packages which will be distributed to those displaced by the hurricane.
Minneapolis and St. Paul (where the Xcel Center is located) have done a great job in preparing to welcome the thousands of delegates and supporting casts for the convention. These are beautiful cities and the friendly attitude of all who we meet and deal with from shuttle drivers, hotel employees and service personnel to those related to the convention itself have been really great. They are wonderful ambassadors for their communities.
It is an exciting atmosphere and a unique dynamic where so many people from different walks of life, different ages and places come together to select our nominee for President and Vice President and conduct the other business necessary as a political entity.
Monday the convention opened with some basic housekeeping required in order to legally hold a convention and place the nominees names on the ballots in all fifty states and the U.S. territories. We had very few speeches out of respect for the focus on the hurricane's impact. The headline was a special appearance by First Lady Laura Bush and Cindy McCain who both took the stage to welcome the attendees and announce a special effort to raise funds for the five states that may most be impacted by the hurricane. I include the websites here (at this link) in the event any of you may wish to make a contribution to those efforts.
Stay tuned for more information as the convention continues through Thursday.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
NAR Leadership Summit - Developing as Leaders and FRIENDS
Cornelia Stockman reports: Each year NAR brings together the president-elects of the state associations, local boards and multiple listing services in Chicago to learn industry trends, new programs, and an outlook on the coming year when each will serve in president positions within the REALTOR organization.
Eight Maine REALTORS - the president-elects of Local Boards/Councils, MAR and MREIS - and 3 Association Executives (administrators) gathered for this year's NAR Leadership Summit in Chicago.
In the process of learning, listening and sharing, we developed as FRIENDS. There was the inspiration, the achievements, and the invitation to reach higher and grow stronger as individuals and as a group.
Instead of the media's "doom & gloom", we heard the real facts and forecasts from the best people in NAR. Reality testing by looking into past performance and designing for the future, remember there is “pent up demand” for housing was emphasized by speaker after speaker.
The quality of the speakers' presentations and the strength of authors reached into the past from Aristotle to Eisenhower and displayed the "big" picture. I loved the new NAR programs such as "Selling Green" and the “FHA Toolkit" to support what REALTORS in the present need; adapting to change, accommodating to the possibilities. The excellence of changes in REALTOR.com are a great source of in-depth information.
To sum up the NAR Leadership Summit:
F – Facts, FHA, Food, FUN
R – Responsible, resources
I – Innovators & innovation
E – Encouragement & enthusiasm
N – New programs of NAR
D – Do's & don'ts – legalities
S – Style & Success
The best of the best was all around us for the 2 days.
REALTOR Cornelia Stockman (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Kennebunk) will be the 2009 President of the York County Council of MAR. Pictured above: Chicago skyline; Tim Dunham (Pres-Elect, Androscoggin Valley); Kathy Townsend (Pres-Elect, Gr Portland), Kristine Triglione (Pres-Elect, Western Maine); Kelley Craig (Gr Portland AE), Cornelia Stockman; Tim Dunham, Helen Fox (Pres-Elect, Merrymeeting), Marcia Bartol (Bangor AE). Not pictured, but attending: Rita Yarnold (MAR Pres-Elect), Jack Taylor (MREIS Pres-Elect), Ken Duke (MREIS), Delores Landry (Bangor Pres-Elect)
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Association Execs Conference
Most of Maine's Association Executives are participating in NAR's Association Executives Institute, held this week in Boston. Over 1300 REALTOR association executives from across the country (and Internationally) participate in professional developments programs that includes 45 education courses, along with NAR and policy updates.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
3 things bringing us together
In the opening invocation to the 2008 NERC Conference, Ohio REALTOR Steve Brown noted these 3 things that bring us together:
1. Fellowship
2. Cooperation
3. Innovation
Steve Brown is a 2007 NAR Liaison to Federal Issues and a past president of the Ohio Association of REALTORS
Report from NERC 2008
Kyle Rogers reports: I always enjoy attending REALTOR events and inevitably bring something back to use in my personal practice. The New England Regional Conference (NERC) gave ideas too.
On Sunday Georgia Chomas, Cindy Butts and I drove to Cambridge, MA without incident and with a few wrong turns. What would we do without technology; Cindy has a GPS and without that little box we'd still be driving around Boston looking for the Charles Hotel. We met up with the rest of the Maine contingent, MAR President Patti Lawton, Rita Yarnold, Mike LePage, Michelle Flaherty, Cornelia Stockman and Cheryl Kaplan.
Monday morning began with Judy Moore, 2008 NAR Regional VP introducing 2009 NAR President Charles McMillan. I've heard many notable speakers in my past life in the Navy and my “grown-up” life as a REALTOR® and must say that Charles ranks right at the top. He urged us to “keep the message positive," and to find opportunities to speak with local media. The NAR website has many resources - such as their Surround Sound campaign. I'm going to look at how the Merrymeeting Board can implement some of the materials available in Surround Sound toolkit.
Another powerful message Charles relayed to us is about contributing. He asked each of us to find 3 REALTORS® not contributing their “fair share” and ask them to participate. If they say no, and they will, keep asking. I wouldn't be the President of the Merrymeeting Board if I had not been asked to be on their Board of Directors 4 years ago.
The keynote speaker was 2001 NAR President Richard Mendenhall. He's a very dynamic speaker, one that will have you in stitches laughing ... to then crying about the recent loss of his father. He's fifth generation of his family in real estate. Encouraged us to explore trends changing the real estate industry and your business. Survival goes to the most adaptable in an evolving market. A quote: “Success in real estate is a four-letter word - GUTS.” If you have the opportunity to meet Richard Mendenhall or hear him speak, you'll be awestruck too.
Our day continued with an economic update featuring NAR’s Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. The presentation had everyone sitting on the edge of their seats. The Boston media filed into the room to listen to what Mr. Yun had to say about New England. Here's a link to his presentation in PDF format for use in your office. The news mostly good with some bad mixed in. I won't even mention which parts made the news.
The food at the conference was nothing less than spectacular. I was wondering why there was a scale in my room, not that I had to chance to step on it.
This conference featured Town Hall type meetings, allowing the audience to ask questions of the panels. The first featured Charles McMillan; Ron Phipps, 2009 NAR First Vice President nominee, and Laurie Janik, NAR's Chief Legal Counsel. Each offered thoughts on leadership, market conditions, blogs, and more. I could have listened to their insights for hours.
Jerry Giovaniello, NAR’s Chief Lobbyist reinforced the impact we have when we charge Capitol Hill in May each year. REALTORS impact how our elected officials view issues such as banks in real estate, health insurance for self employed, FHA and many more.
NAR General Counsel Laurie Janik briefed us on legal issues including recent legal victories and areas of continued concern, such as RESPA. She urged everyone to be careful.
A cocktail reception with a sixties theme - NERCStock - had a plethora of food and a sing-along to familiar songs. We sounded pretty good too if I might say so myself!
Tuesday morning had 2 more Town Hall discussions, the first featuring 4 candidates for NAR elected positions. This group relayed how they first got involved in leadership and what they recommend for anyone interested in a leadership position. One commented he'd probably not be sitting on the panel if someone didn't believe in him and ask; another had to be asked several times before the light came on. The most widely used excuse for not volunteering is “I don't have the time”; panelists suggested explaining business benefits, offering options with less time commitments, contributing to PAC instead of time, and more.
The last Town Hall forum was the most enlightening. The Under 30 panel featured our own Michelle Flaherty from Prudential Northeast Properties in Westbrook. Michelle and 5 fellow panelists gave their insights into brokerage and opportunities. The Vermont panelist tells a potential seller the advantage of his online placement, ”You can have your house buried in the aisles with the rest of thousands of products but I'll place your home right at checkout. By placing it at the checkout they'll see your home is for sale." Apparently this approach works as he closed 84 transaction sides last year and only in business a few years. Several panelists indicated even with use of social networking (Facebook, MySpace, etc.) it's still networking, the telephone, and quick response that makes them successful.
In closing I'd like to thank everyone who had a hand in producing such a wonderful event. It was truly a pleasure and an honor to participate and meet so many people. Now, if I could only find my car keys ...
Kyle Rogers is the 2008 President of the Merrymeeting Board of REALTORS
