Associa

Associa University Hosts “Keeping Community: Top 5 Trends for Effective Community Management” Webinar

Wed, 16 May 2012 18:52:09 GMT

Associa University hosts a complimentary webinar, “Keeping Community: Top 5 Trends for Effective Community Management,” Thursday, May 17, at 3 p.m. EDT.

Open to community managers, board members, homeowners and the public, webinar speakers Rob Felix and Elizabeth Buenrostro examine the top five inevitable trends for community management. Additionally, Felix and Buenrostro will discuss what communities and managers can expect in future years and the compensation models necessary to the association management industry to survive the ultimate question: “It’s your future – what will you make it look like?”

“More than ever, it is necessary for managers to know current trends in community management,” said Matt Kraft, vice president of training and development at Associa. “Rob and Elizabeth, both industry experts with vast knowledge and experience, will assist community managers in discovering how to more effectively manage a community which, as a result, will drive new business and retain current clients.”

Over the course of her career, Buenrostro has participated in every level of the industry including successfully managing exclusive communities, serving on HOA boards and community outreach programs, and serving as director of homeowner relations. Currently she serves as the director of business development for N.N. Jaeschke.

Buenrostro has been honored with several designations and awards that include Professional Service Representative of the Year, Associate Member of the Year, Professional Achievement in Community Affairs Award, Professional Achievement in Political Affairs Award from the Building Industry Association, Woman of the Year by the Leukemia Society and she was chosen as a Woman of Distinction by Elizabeth Dole.

Felix has been involved in the community association management industry since 1979 and has served in many capacities in HOA management and leadership. He is recognized as an expert witness in HOA related matters, has authored numerous articles in local and national industry publications, teaches internationally on HOA management matters, and holds the Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM), Large Scale Management (LSM) and Reserve Specialist (RS) designations through the Community Associations Institute (CAI).

Felix currently chairs the National Board of Certification for Community Association Managers (NBC-CAM) and the Exam Development Committee for NBC-CAM, and has served on numerous CAI national and local committees and task forces.

To register for the webinar, please visit http://eo2.commpartners.com/users/associa/session.php?id=8781.

AU is the nation's first comprehensive community association management online campus program of its kind. AU provides Associa employees with online, on demand, self-paced courses tailored specifically for Associa Best Practices. Additionally, it partners with the Community Associations Institute (CAI) to provide its classes by video conference to Associa member companies which enables Associa management staff to attend more courses in the convenience of a local training environment. It also creates its own live and online courses that address in depth the skills, techniques and knowledge necessary to provide optimum management and customer service to its internal and external customers. For more information, visit www.associau.com.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s leading community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and watch us on YouTube.

Community Management Corporation and Associa Supports Kids Sponsor Four Virginia Youth Sports Teams

Wed, 16 May 2012 18:42:16 GMT

Community Management Corporation (CMC), an Associa company, and Associa Supports Kids sponsored four area youth sports teams since January; a total donation of $1,000.

“Part of being a community management company means offering not only community management, but lifestyle services to our homeowners,” said CMC President and CEO Heather Graham. “The Associa Supports Kids Sports program is our opportunity to give back to the communities we serve by sponsoring local, grassroots youth sports and fitness activities.”

Associa Supports Kids donates to youth teams in baseball, basketball, cheerleading, dance, hockey, soccer and swim. The requests range from financial assistance for uniforms and end-of-year awards to building new baseball fields and supplementing coaching salaries. Below are the four teams CMC, Associa and Associa Supports Kids sponsored thus far in 2012:

Campbell Cavaliers baseball team from the Parks at Piedmont community received $250 to assist with fees associated with the team’s equipment and uniforms.
Hopyard Farm Swim Team from the Hopyard Farm community received $250 to assist with the purchase of stopwatches, kickboards and line reels.
Lee’s Hill Swim Team from the Lee’s Hill Community Association received $250 to assist with coaching fees, team equipment and offset swimmer fees.
Victory Lakes Swim Club from the Victory Lakes community received $250 to defray the cost of the “swimmer in the wee” program.

Associa Supports Kids is a value-added program for Associa community residents, designed to enhance the neighborhood community experience year-round. The program focuses on educating parents and kids about safety and fitness. Associa is passionate about the communities it serves. Through the ASK program, the company shares that passion by educating parents and their children about safety in and around the home. At neighborhood events, Scout, the ASK mascot, hands out Safety Tip coloring books, plush Scout toys, rub-on tattoos, and Scout’s own books, like Scout Goes to the Beach, Scout Goes to a Sleepover, and Scout Stays Active and Strong to each child in attendance. Parents receive an ASK safety brochure and a ChildPrint identification kit. In addition, ASK is focused on keeping kids strong and healthy by promoting physical activity through sports sponsorships. For more information on both the Safety and Sports Sponsorships programs, visit www.associasupportskids.org.

Community Management Corporation, AAMC, provides community association management and developer services to communities in the greater Washington D.C. area. Since 1971, its sole focus has been to deliver services that enrich communities and enhance the lives of the people it serves. To learn more, visit www.cmc-management.com or find them on Facebook by visiting www.Facebook.com/CommunityManagementCorporation.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s leading community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and watch us on YouTube.

“Las Mananitas,” an Associa Mexico Realty Services Managed Community, Ranks Number One on Trip Advisor

Tue, 15 May 2012 14:45:24 GMT

Associa Mexico Realty Services, an Associa company, proudly announces its Las Mananitas community was recently ranked number one out of 37 in Cabo’s specialty lodging market on TripAdvisor.

"Las Mananitas represents the pinnacle of Cabo specialty lodging and has a reputation for consistently delivering superior service,” said Associa Mexico Realty Services – Los Cabos CEO Chris Larsen. “The owners at Las Mananitas were able to take over as administrator of their HOA in 2011 and utilized the opportunity to change the management relationship to Associa and Elite. The goal was to better maintain and improve the quality of the community common areas and amenities and to do so more cost efficiently. Associa’s experience and knowledge, along with Elite’s professional management of day-to-day operations, have created the best experience in Cabo for owners and renters.”

Las Mananitas is a unique beach-front community of 106 well appointed one, two and three bedroom condominiums and penthouses offering the best in both luxury and comfort for its owners and visitors alike. The unmatched amenities include four swimming pools surrounded by meticulous landscaping, multiple bar-b-que areas, stunning water features, full service workout facilities, tennis and basketball courts and a practice putting green. Additionally, Las Mananitas has a prime location offering shopping, dining, entertainment and public transportation all within close walking distance.

“The homeowners and their elected board of directors have shown tremendous dedication to Las Mananitas,” said Larsen. “As volunteers, they have gone above and beyond to ensure the high quality standard of the community and the decisions made have allowed for its continued success.”

TripAdvisor® is the world's largest travel site, enabling travelers to plan and have the perfect trip. TripAdvisor offers trusted advice from real travelers and a wide variety of travel choices and planning features with seamless links to booking tools. TripAdvisor-branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, with more than 50 million unique monthly visitors, and over 60 million reviews and opinions. The sites operate in 30 countries worldwide, including China under daodao.com. TripAdvisor also includes TripAdvisor for Business, a dedicated division that provides the tourism industry access to TripAdvisor's millions of monthly visitors.

Associa Mexico Realty Services provides community association management and developer services to more than 30 communities in La Paz, Los Cabos, Loreto and Rosarito. Its sole focus is to deliver performance that enriches communities and enhances the lives of the people it serves. To learn more visit www.associamexico.com.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s leading community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and watch us on YouTube.

Massingham & Associates Sponsors Local Baseball Competition

Tue, 15 May 2012 14:40:46 GMT

Massingham & Associates, an Associa company, recently sponsored the Aquafina® Major League Baseball® Pitch, Hit and Run™ competition Sunday, May 6.

Participants were divided into four age divisions to compete in pitching, hitting and running challenges, including 7- and 8-year olds, 9- and 10-year olds, 11- and 12-year olds and 13- and 14-year olds. “The Pitch” includes trying to throw strikes like major league pitchers by taking a shot at hitting the MLB Strike Zone; “The Hit” includes swinging away from home plate while being judged on distance and accuracy; and “The Run” includes starting at second base and heading home to test speed at running bases.

“In addition to supporting our youth through Associa Supports Kids, Massingham wanted to sponsor this event to help further educate youth on the importance of staying active and involved,” said Massingham & Associates President and CEO Lisa Esposito. “We had a great time watching participants from all four age groups and hope to sponsor again next year.”

Pitch, Hit and Run™ is the Official Skills Competition of Major League Baseball®. For more information, visit http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/kids/mlb_pitch_hit_run.jsp.

Massingham & Associates provides community association management and developer services to California. Since 1985, its sole focus has been to deliver performance that enriches communities and enhances the lives of the people it serves. Massingham is a CACM Certified Management Firm, and currently has five branch offices located in Citrus Heights, Campbell, Concord, Hayward, and Signal Hill (serving the greater Los Angeles area). To learn more, visit www.massingham.com or find them on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/MassinghamAndAssociates.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s leading community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest, and watch us on YouTube.

Associa Summer Smash Giveaway – Contest Rules and Regulations

Fri, 11 May 2012 16:13:03 GMT

Description of Contest
Associa, the largest community management firm in North America, offers lifestyle services in addition to simply community management services. One of the many lifestyle tools available to Associa-managed communities is the Associa Social Kit that includes all the tools needed to know how to plan the ideal event.

The merriment has inspired the Associa Summer Smash Giveaway, inviting one and all to enter to win.

One winner will receive $2,500 to go toward a community event listed in the Associa Social Kit.

Binding Agreement
To enter the contest, you must agree to the Associa Summer Smash Giveaway – Contest Rules and Regulations (the “Official Rules”). Therefore, please read the Official Rules prior to entry to ensure you understand and agree. You agree that submission of an entry in the contest constitutes agreement to the rules. You may not submit an entry to the contest and are not eligible to receive prizes described in the official rules, unless you agree to the official rules. Your submission of an entry form is a binding legal agreement as contained herein between you and Associa with respect to the contest and the Official Rules.

Contest Period
The contest will launch May 16th on Associa’s contest page and entries can be submitted between then and until 11:59 p.m. CT May 31st. One entry will be drawn to receive the $2,500 prize to go toward a community event listed in the Associa Social Kit. One winner will be announced June 4th.

Who Can Enter
1. To be eligible to participate in this contest, entrants must be at least 18 years old. If you are 18 of age or older, but are considered a minor in your place of residence, you must have obtained your parent's or legal guardian's permission prior to submitting an entry into this Contest.
2. Employees of Associa and its member companies or entities across the country, including their immediate family members, are not eligible to participate in the contest. The term “immediate family member” includes spouses, parents, grandparents, siblings, children and grandchildren.
3. Entrants must live in an Associa-managed community.

How to Enter
1. No purchase or payment necessary to enter or win.
2. Qualified entrants (only one form entry per entrant) shall submit a form by the closing date and time. Forms will be submitted on the official contest page.
3. All entries must fill out the appropriate entry fields contained on the submission form. (full name, email address, mailing address, phone number, name of management company and name of HOA).

Elimination
Any false information provided by any participant concerning identity, mailing address, telephone number, email address, or ownership of right or the like may result in elimination from the contest. Failure to comply with the Official Rules may result in elimination from the contest.

Winner Selection
1. One (1) winner will be announced on June 4, 2012. The winner will be determined by random drawing from the submitted forms.
2. The winner must have complied with the Official Rules.

Prizes
One (1) winner will receive $2,500 to go toward a community event listed in the Associa Social Kit.
Please note event must occur before Dec. 1, 2012

Winner Notification
1. Winners will be notified by e-mail and/or telephone.
2. By participating in the contest, each participant and winner waives any and all claims of liability against Associa for any injury or loss that may occur from the conduct of, or participation in, the contest, or from the use of any prize.
3. By claiming the prize, the winner authorizes the use, without additional compensation, of his or her name and/or likeness and/or voice/photograph and municipality of residence for promotion and/or advertising purposes in any manner and in any medium (including, without limitation, newspaper, other print publications, television, videotape, distribution over the internet, and picture and data storage) Associa deems appropriate.

Additional Rules
By participating in the contest, participants agree to be bound by the decisions of Associa and its personnel. Associa reserves the right to disqualify any participant or winner and may refuse to award any prize to a person who is ineligible or has violated any rule, gained unfair advantage during or prior to participation in the contest, or obtained winner status using fraudulent means. Associa will interpret these rules and resolve any disputes, conflicting claims or ambiguities concerning the Official Rules or the contest and Associa decisions concerning such disputes shall be final. If the conduct or outcome of the contest is affected by human error, any mechanical, technical, electronic, communications, telephone, computer, hardware or software errors, malfunctions or failures of any kind, intentional interference or any event beyond the control of Associa, Associa reserves the right to terminate this contest, or make such other decisions regarding the outcome as Associa deems appropriate. All decisions will by Associa are final. Associa may waive any of the Official Rules at its sole discretion.

Waiver of Liability and Agreement to Indemnify
By submitting an entry, entrants and/or their heirs, successors and assigns (“Entrants”) thereby release, forever discharge and covenant not to make a claim against or sue Associa or the Associa Summer Smash Giveaway contest and assigns of and from all manner of action or actions, cause or causes of action, at law or in equity, suits, claims, demands, liability, loss, cost or expense, of any nature whatsoever, known or unknown, fixed or contingent, which Entrants may have or hereafter have against the Associa Summer Smash Giveaway by reason of any injuries or damages Entrants may sustain, whether to Entrants person, property, reputation, or otherwise, as a result of, incident to, or related in any way to the entry, the contest, or the use, incorporation or exploration of the entry for any purpose described herein. Entrants waive and forego the right to seek injunctive relief against anyone relating in any way to the entry, the contest or the use, incorporation, or exploration of the materials for any purpose described herein. Entrants agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Associa Summer Smash Giveaway from and against any liabilities, losses, claims, demands, costs (including without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees) and expenses arising in connection with any breach, alleged breach, or representation by the Associa Summer Smash Giveaway which may relate to this contest in any way.

Facebook Release and Disclosure
By submitting an entry, Entrants thereby release, forever discharge and covenant not to make a claim against or sue Facebook of and from all manner of action or actions, cause or causes of action, at law or in equity, suits, claims, demands, liability, loss, cost or expenses, of any nature whatsoever, known or unknown, fixed or contingent, which Entrants may have or hereafter have against Facebook by reason of any injuries or damages Entrants may sustain, whether to Entrants person, property, reputation, or otherwise, as a result of, incident to, or related in any way to the entry, the contest, or the use, incorporation or exploration of the entry for any purpose. The Entrants acknowledge that the promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. The Entrants further acknowledge that the information is provided to Associa and not to Facebook.

Associa Supports Kids Donates $16,000 to Youth Sports Teams in First Quarter

Tue, 08 May 2012 17:30:15 GMT

Associa, the largest community management services firm in North America, and Associa Supports Kids donated more than $16,000 in first quarter of 2012 to youth sports teams across the nation.

“Thousands of children live and play in Associa-managed communities,” said Associa President and CEO John Carona. “Associa Supports Kids is our opportunity to make a difference in their lives.”

In three months, ASK sponsored nearly 70 youth teams from baseball, basketball and hockey to cheerleading, soccer and swim. The requests range from financial assistance for uniforms and end-of-year awards to building new baseball fields and supplementing coaching salaries. Below is a list of the Associa companies that helped youth sports teams receive sponsorships:

Alliance Association Management (Austin, Texas) – 13 sponsorships
Associa Gulf Coast (Fort Myers, Florida) – 1 sponsorship
Association Services of Florida (Miramar, Florida) – 1 sponsorship
Benchmark Association Services (Las Vegas, Nevada) – 2 sponsorships
Canyon Gate Real Estate Services (Albuquerque, New Mexico) – 1 sponsorship
Community Association Services of Indiana (Carmel, Indiana) – 6 sponsorships
Community Management Corporation (Chantilly, Virginia) – 2 sponsorships
Community Management Concepts, Inc. of Jacksonville (Jacksonville, Florida) – 1 sponsorship
Community Group (Richmond, Virginia) – 7 sponsorships
Houston Community Management Services (Houston, Texas) – 5 sponsorships
Kramer-Triad Management Group (Novi, Michigan) – 1 sponsorship
Legum and Norman, Inc. (Falls Church, Virginia) – 3 sponsorships
M & C Association Management Services, Inc. (Stockton, California) – 4 sponsorships
MAMCO Property Management (Mt. Laurel, New Jersey) – 1 sponsorship
Morris Property Management (Brentwood, Tennessee) – 3 sponsorships
Principal Management Group of North Texas (Dallas, Texas) – 12 sponsorships
ProComm (San Antonio, Texas) – 1 sponsorship
River Management (Poughkeepsie, New York) – 1 sponsorship

ABOUT ASSOCIA SUPPORTS KIDS:
Associa Supports Kids is a value-added program for Associa community residents, designed to enhance the neighborhood community experience year-round. The program focuses on educating parents and kids about safety and fitness. Associa is passionate about the communities it serves. Through the ASK program, the company shares that passion by educating parents and their children about safety in and around the home. At neighborhood events, Scout, the ASK mascot, hands out Safety Tip coloring books, plush Scout toys, rub-on tattoos, and Scout’s own books, like Scout Goes to the Beach, Scout Goes to a Sleepover, and Scout Stays Active and Strong to each child in attendance. Parents receive an ASK safety brochure and a ChildPrint identification kit. In addition, ASK is focused on keeping kids strong and healthy by promoting physical activity through sports sponsorships. For more information on both the Safety and Sports Sponsorships programs, visit www.associasupportskids.org.

ABOUT ASSOCIA:
Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.

Canyon Gate Real Estate Services Holds Complimentary Legal Seminar

Tue, 08 May 2012 17:16:45 GMT

Canyon Gate Real Estate Services, an Associa company, recently hosted a complimentary legal seminar Monday, May 7 with Lastrapes, Spangler & Pacheco, P.A.

“We were excited to hold this complimentary legal seminar,” said Canyon Gate President and CEO Roger Kinney. “Christopher Pacheco is a talented legal professional who delivered an exceptional legal presentation for attendees.”

Open to the public, the legal seminar was held at the Sheraton Uptown Hotel. Christopher Pacheco, Esq., of Lastrapes, Spangler & Pacheco, P.A. discussed compliance and the importance of enforcing homeowners associations’ covenants, as well as provided an overview of New Mexico case law affecting homeowners associations. Dinner was provided to all attendees during the seminar.

Pacheco serves as partner of Lastrapes, Spangler & Pacheco, P.A. and has extensive experience in structuring, negotiating and consummating multi-million dollar business and real estate transactions. He also represents numerous property management companies, residential and commercial owners’ associations and real estate brokerages. Pacheco has been recognized in Best Lawyers in America for real estate specialty each year since 2008 and, since 2002, has been included in Strathmore’s Who’s Who.

With offices in Albuquerque, Santa Fe and El Paso, Canyon Gate Real Estate Services provides community association management and consulting services to the entire New Mexico region and the El Paso, Texas area. Since 2001, its sole focus has been to deliver performance that enriches communities and enhances the lives of the people it serves. To learn more, visit www.cgres.com or find them on Facebook by visiting www.Facebook.com/CanyonGate.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.

McKay Management Welcomes New Employee

Tue, 08 May 2012 17:06:26 GMT

Andrea Jones Hired as Assistant Association Manager

McKay Management, an Associa company, proudly announces Andrea Jones as its newest assistant association manager.

“We are happy to welcome Andrea to the McKay team,” said McKay Management Director of Operations and Training Jada Hilyer. “Her enthusiasm, willingness to learn and positive attitude in addition to her experience will prove valuable to our company and our clients.”

Jones joins McKay Management with several years of commercial property management and customer service experience. In previous positions, she specialized in “class A” office management and developed annual operating budgets for a one-million-square-foot portfolio.

Jones lives in Alabama and has two children. Outside of work, she enjoys Auburn football, Phillies baseball, working out and spending time at the lake with friends. She is also active in raising awareness for autism.

McKay Management Corporation, Inc. provides community association management and developer services in Greater Birmingham Area in Alabama. Since 1992, its sole focus has been to deliver performance that enriches communities and enhances the lives of the people it serves. To learn more about McKay Management Corporation, please visit www.mckaymanagement.com.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.

M & C Association Management Services, Inc. Raises $22,474 for Associa Cares

Tue, 08 May 2012 17:03:13 GMT

M & C Association Management Services, Inc. (M & C), an Associa company, recently raised $22,474 for Associa Cares, Associa’s 501(c)3, at its first annual Vendor Fair.

“It was an exciting day of networking and fundraising,” said M & C President and CEO Heather Kerwin. “I am enormously proud of all of M & C’s staff and vendors for their commitment to giving back.”

The Vendor Fair featured M & C staff from all five branch offices “speed dating” with more than 30 of its valued vendors. Every five minutes, the “next date” bell rang and team members moved to a different table. By the end of the “dating session,” everyone gained a new contract or relationship.

Additionally, the Vendor Fair included raffles for fine wines, gift baskets and a flat screen television.

Associa Cares is a national nonprofit 501(c)3 organization created to assist families and communities in crisis as a result of natural and man-made disasters. Through donations provided at fundraising events across the country, Associa Cares is able to provide necessary goods and services to the families affected by these types of tragedies. If you know of a family who has been the victim of a natural or man-made disaster, go directly to www.associacares.com to submit a request.

M & C Association Management Services, AAMC, provides community association management and developer services to Northern California with offices in Pleasanton, Copperopolis, Elk Grove, Redding, Modesto, and Stockton. Since 1990, M & C's sole focus has been to deliver performance that enriches communities and enhances the lives of the people it serves. To learn more, visit www.mccommunities.com or find them on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/mccommunities.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.

Debra Warren Announced Vice President of Client Relations by Associa

Tue, 08 May 2012 16:55:47 GMT

Associa, North America’s largest community association management firm, proudly announces Debra A. Warren, PCAM, CCAM, as its vice president of client relations.

“Debra is a passionate, dedicated professional who brings years of knowledge and experience to Associa,” said Associa President and CEO John Carona. “As vice president of client relations, she will not only strengthen our clients’ experience, but develop new ways to increase their satisfaction.”

In her new position, Warren will provide senior level support to the Associa staff to develop and implement programs and systems that address client retention and the client’s Associa experience through its various client services. Additionally, she will develop employees to their fullest potential and to the highest level of professionalism through education, mentoring and career guidance as it pertains to client relations.

Warren has more than 25 years of experience in community association management. She was founder and principal of a successful consulting practice following 15 years as President and CEO of Powar Management in San Rafael, California which was sold in 2005.

In addition to her direct experience in management and as a business executive, she has been actively involved in the education of community management professionals and volunteer board members across the country.

She has 15 years of experience as an educator, and is a nationally recognized expert in the industry. She is a featured speaker at regional and national events, and in 2010 was named by Community Associations Institute (CAI) as Educator of the Year. In December of 2011, Warren was part of a delegation that traveled to Dubai, UAE, to present two PMDP courses and participate in the Middle East Association Managers Conference (MEAMCON).

Additionally, Warren is involved in numerous professional organizations, including the Community Associations Institute (CAI), California Association of Community Managers (CACM), American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) and BoardSource.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.

Associa Names Andrew Fortin Vice President of Government and Public Affairs

Tue, 08 May 2012 16:51:46 GMT

Associa, North America’s leader in community association management, proudly announces the appointment of Andrew Fortin, ESQ., as vice president of government and public affairs. Fortin will lead Associa’s government affairs efforts and serve as liaison to allied organizations, such as the Community Associations Institute (CAI).

“Andrew is a seasoned and well-respected leader that has a reputation of proven success in government and public affairs,” said Associa President and Chief Executive Officer John Carona. “His rich history in the industry will serve Associa and its communities well by fostering relationships and programs during a time that our industry is evolving.”

Fortin joins Associa from CAI where he served as vice president of government and public affairs for six years. There, he was the primary industry advocate on federal and state legislative, legal and regulatory issues related to nonprofit community associations. He coordinated and led more than 400 volunteers in 34 states on legislative issues affecting nonprofit community associations; coordinated the College of Community Association Lawyers; planned and implemented the Annual Law Seminar; and provided strategic vision for development of industry publications, courses and other collateral materials. He also built strategic partnerships with key members internally and externally to forward association goals.

Prior to CAI, Fortin served as vice president of legal/government relations for three years and later as vice president and general counsel at the National Club Association (NCA) in Washington, D.C. He supervised the government relations, communications and IT departments; served as in-house counsel, advised the NCA board and senior management on nonprofit governance, human relations/employment and policy issues;; managed the government relations program, served as the NCA spokesman and expert; and authored books, monographs and publications on legal, legislative and regulatory issues.

Fortin has also served as the former chief of staff for Congressman Peter Hoekstra and was a policy advisor at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Fortin graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and received his Juris Doctor from the Columbus School of Law at The Catholic University of America. Additionally, he has masters-level coursework in public administration and policy analysis from Michigan State University.

He has delivered numerous speeches on governance and public affairs and has authored many books and columns during his career.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.

Professional Community Management Manager Receives Community Associations Institute National Award

Tue, 08 May 2012 16:46:42 GMT

Professional Community Management (PCM), an Associa company, proudly announces that Wendy Bucknum, CMCA, AMS, CCAM was named the Governmental and Public Affairs National 2011 award winner by the Community Associations Institute's (CAI) National Board of Directors.

The Award of Excellence in Government and Public Affairs is given to the individual who has advanced the government and public affairs initiatives of CAI and its membership. Bucknum received the award at the Annual Awards Reception of the CAI National Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada Friday, May 4.

“Wendy worked hard in 2011 to support CAI’s efforts at a local, state and national level,” said Andrew Fortin, vice president of government and public affairs at Associa. “She is a tireless supporter of CAI and has worked with the government and public affairs staff to develop education programs on government affairs for our members. There is no one more deserving of this award.”

Bucknum currently serves as the Governmental and Public Affairs Manager on site at Laguna Woods Village in Laguna Woods, California and has been with PCM for 19 years. She is immediate past-president of the Orange County Regional Chapter of CAI and is a delegate-at-large on the California & Federal Legislative Action Committees for CAI. Additionally, she is chair-elect on the Board of the South Orange County Regional Chamber of Commerce. Bucknum was appointed by the Mayor of Mission Viejo, California as a city commissioner for Community Services Commission and currently serves as chair. She is also a member of the National Federation of Republican Women, Capistrano Valley Republican Women Federated and has served as California’s Southern Division student advocacy chair.

She holds the Association Management Specialist (AMS) designation from CAI as well as the Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) designation from the National Board of Certification for Community Association Managers (NBC-CAM).

Bucknum resides in Mission Viejo with her husband and son.

“Wendy is very deserving of this award,” said PCM CEO Donny Disbro. “This is a result of her longtime commitment and effectiveness with legislative issues in California as well as federal regulatory issues, and we could not be more proud of this recognition.”

With headquarters in Lake Forest, Calif., PCM and its companies employ a staff of more than 1,500 people. PCM has offices serving all of Southern California and Southern Nevada and is recognized by the Multi Housing Council as one of the country’s largest managers of common interest developments. Management services by PCM are backed by state-of-the-art Internet technology and comprehensive financial and management systems. For additional information, please contact PCM at 800.369.7260 or at www.pcminternet.com.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.

Certified Hawaii Appoints Chief Executive Officer

Tue, 08 May 2012 16:43:58 GMT

Certified Hawaii, an Associa company, proudly announces the rejoining of Jon McKenna as its new chief executive officer to lead the operations and drive accountability and customer service through the Certified Hawaii team.

“Jon has been in the real estate industry for more than 13 years. He will undoubtedly use the tremendous knowledge and experience within his role as CEO of Certified Hawaii,” said Associa Senior Vice President Mike Packard. “His superior leadership qualities and ethical standards have made him ideal for the position.”

Before joining Certified Hawaii, McKenna served as the development project manager with Haseko Development, Inc. Here, he was part of the team involved with all aspects of planning and developing the award-winning master planned community of Hoakalei Resort.

Prior to Haseko Development, Inc., McKenna served as vice president of Certified Management, Inc., now rebranded as Certified Hawaii. In addition to managing multiple associations for nearly 10 years, he was responsible for acquisition of new clients with a strong focus on developer accounts.

McKenna received his Bachelor of Science degree, Master’s in Science and Master’s in Business Administration from Chaminade University of Honolulu. He holds the Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM) designation, the highest level of recognition for community manager, from the Community Associations Institute (CAI).

He currently serves as president for the Special Education Center of Hawaii (SECOH), an organization that provides services to people with disabilities, and is immediate past president of the West Oahu Economic Development Association. Additionally, McKenna has served as adjunct faculty at Chaminade University of Honolulu for 10 years.

McKenna is married with one son and enjoys traveling, surfing, swimming, tennis, running and golf.

Providing quality professional management services to homeowners in more than 400 community associations on five islands, Certified Hawaii is a recipient of the coveted Accredited Association Management Company (AAMC) designation from the Community Associations Institute (CAI). To learn more visit www.certifiedhawaii.com or find them on Facebook by visiting www.Facebook.com/CertifiedHawaii.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.

Associa Continues Canadian Expansion with Acquisition in British Columbia

Mon, 07 May 2012 16:49:37 GMT

Baywest Management Corporation Expands Offering to Strata Industry

Associa, North America’s largest community management firm, strengthens its presence in the Canadian market with the acquisition of Baywest Management Corporation, its third Canadian acquisition and its first in British Columbia.

“This new partnership marks Associa’s entry into the concentrated Vancouver condo market and is our third acquisition in Canada in less than a year,” said John Carona, Associa president and CEO. “Baywest is Western Canada’s premier residential management company and has a reputation for great service, integrity and innovation. They are the ideal addition to the Associa family.”

Baywest, headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, is a recognized leader in residential management, specializing in strata management as well as co-op and rental management. Baywest prides itself on providing practical guidance, cutting edge technology and strong financial management. Baywest’s 5-point game plan provides its clients with total control and measurable value.

“We are pleased to join the Associa family,” said Bruce Friesen, president and CEO of Baywest. “Associa has an outstanding reputation for providing exceptional service, and we are certain this new partnership will enable us to deliver a higher level of service and unparalleled opportunity to our clients.”

A few of the services and programs that Canadian homeowners may now expect include:

Associa Advantage – Provides homeowners with access to exclusive discounts on household goods and services through a shopping network
AssociaLiving – Inspires homeowners with articles about homes, communities, entertaining and practical living
Associerge – Offers exclusive complimentary concierge services to every homeowner
Associa Access/Mobile – Provides 24-hour account access via the internet and paperless account management through mobile technology
Associa University – Offers comprehensive strata management training programs for clients
Associa Supports Kids – Educates parents and children about safety and sponsors youth sports activities to help kids stay active
Associa Cares – Assists families and communities in crisis as a result of natural and man-made disasters
Associa Green – Helps families live healthy, “greener” lifestyles that benefit both people and our Earth through two programs - Associa Green HomeGrown and Associa Green RecyclingRoundups

ABOUT BAYWEST MANAGEMENT CORPORATION
Baywest Management Corporation is western Canada’s leading property management company. With offices in Vancouver, Surrey and Kelowna, Baywest offers inspired management to stratas, co-ops and rental buildings. In addition, Baywest’s marketing group and specialized New Construction Team work with a large network of developers in the fast-growing Vancouver area. The three strongest components in a Baywest strata manager’s toolkit are a comprehensive 5-point game plan for each client, 24/7 web access for each strata through mybaywest and a solid accounting department. To become an Associa Baywest client, request a quote at www.baywest.ca.

ABOUT ASSOCIA
Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest strata management firm. Associa serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Texas, Associa’s 8,000 employees serve clients from over 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa visit www.associaonline.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.

Legum & Norman Congratulates CMCA Designations

Fri, 04 May 2012 16:04:37 GMT

The Resorts Division of Legum & Norman Inc., an Associa company, congratulates Kate Galten and Craig Clarke for receiving the Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) designation from the National Board of Certification for Community Association Managers (NBC-CAM).

The CMCA designation is a valued accomplishment in the community management industry. Managers must complete Community Association Institute’s (CAI) Professional Management Development Program (PMDP) course, the M-100: Essentials of Community Association Management. This course covers topics ranging from Facilities Management and Community Government to Risk Management and Financial Management. Once the manager has completed and passed the M-100, they must complete a comprehensive exam before earning the CMCA designation.

“We are extremely proud of all of our managers for achieving their goals of receiving their CMCA designations,” said Legum & Norman Senior Vice President Patti DuBuque. “Their commitment to continuing education and professional development is a great asset to both Legum & Norman and the communities we manage.”

Galten, a Berlin native, graduated from Salisbury University with a Bachelor of Arts degree and made the transition from lifestyle director to assistant general manager at GlenRiddle, in Berlin, Maryland. She has worked at Legum & Norman for four years, and achieved the Rising Star Award in 2008, her first year with Legum & Norman.

Clarke has worked in property management for 12 years with experience in weekly condo rentals, multifamily housing and condo associations. He serves as site manager Legum & Norman at the Braemar Towers in Ocean City, Maryland. Clarke’s past honors include Rookie of the Year and Employee of the Year for Legum & Norman's Resort Division and the Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) designation through National Apartment Association (NAA).

Legum & Norman provides community association management and developer services to the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Delaware and Virginia, in addition to the greater Washington DC area. Since 1969, its sole focus has been to deliver performance that enriches communities and enhances the lives of the people it serves. For more information, visit www.legumnorman.com or find us on Facebook by visiting www.Facebook.com/LegumNorman.

Building successful communities for more than 30 years, Associa is North America’s largest community association management firm and serves its clients with local knowledge, national resources and comprehensive expertise. Based in Dallas, Associa and its 8,000 employees operate more than 150 branch offices in the United States, Mexico and Canada. To learn more about Associa and its charitable organization, Associa Cares, go to www.associaonline.com and www.associacares.com. Find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn, and watch us on YouTube.