MIAAOR Installs 2018 Officers and Directors

The Marco Island Area Association of Realtors (MIAAOR) recently held its annual installation banquet and award ceremony at the Hideaway Beach Club on Marco Island. The association, now in its 42nd year, acts as a network for it’s over 700 members.

The annual ceremony acts as a celebration of the group’s achievements over the past year. Members are able to socialize, congratulate, and reminisce with one another. The luncheon also acts as a way to formally introduce the incoming leadership team and board members.

“It’s gratifying to know that our as sociation has been continually serving the community, nearly since the installation of modern Marco Island,” former MIAAOR president Marv Needles said in his opening address.

During the ceremony, select members are awarded for the exemplary service. For the first time this year, one special realtor was presented with the Richard Shanahan Service Award. Richard “Dick” Shanahan passed away last October at the age of 89. In 2016 he served as president of the association, though his legacy on the island is far reaching. Shanahan was best known for his service, charitable efforts, and loyalty to the people of Marco Island.

Debra Shanahan, Dick’s wife, presented to the award to Bill Filbin. It was an exciting afternoon for Bill, who also took home the Unsung Hero Award.

“The Unsung Hero Award is designed to give recognition and a humble word of thanks to an individual who silently, but effectively made my year easier,” 2017 president Michael O’Rourke said.

Affiliate of the Year was presented to Tiffany Homuth and Realtor of the Year went to former MIAAOR president, Susan Ackerson.

To round out the afternoon, the 2018 leadership team was installed to their new positions. Incoming president Gary Elliott promises to “take it up a notch,” a personal slogan of his. Gary succeeds 2017 president Michael O’Rourke. Gary’s presidential cabinet includes Steve Josselyn, 2019 president elect, and Ken Bennett, secretary/ treasurer.