First Blog by Bob

Wow, feels like 2008 has already begun. Two weeks ago I attended 4 installations in 3 days.

The first installation was a luncheon on December 12th in Navarre (pronounced Na-var) where Tara Capron was installed as the incoming President. Michelle Tucker presided as the outgoing President.

Second was another noon installation the next day for the Realtor Association of Franklin and Southern Gulf Counties. What a great 2 hour drive down scenic Highway 98 along some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It was my privilege to install Joan Lovelace as the incoming president and the rest of her officers and directors. They are preparing, as we all are, for a year of reduced membership and belt tightening.

The third installation was that evening 200 hundred miles west of Apalachicola at the Pensacola Association of Realtors at the New World Landing in historic downtown Pensacola. They hosted a first class event with over 175 Realtors in attendance. Many honors were presented including a 40 year Realtor membership to Pete Falzone. Outgoing President Doug Gooch said his farewells and thanks as incoming President Diane Toepfer set her direction for 2008 for the PAR.

The final installation of the week was for my own association, the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors held at the Baytown Resort in Sandestin. Outgoing President Harry Milsaps gave the shortest speech I've ever heard, "I'm done, let's party!" 2008 President Cliff Chaplin inspired those in attendance to get back to basics and to be professional, ethical and compassionate.

What a great week!