New Malibu Realtors Board Installed

The hosted an evening at last month to install its 2012 Board of Directors and acknowledge the accomplishments of members over the past year. 2011 President Dan Ross was awarded "Realtor of the Year" for his dedication and accomplishments over the past year, then passed the gavel to incoming President Bobby Lehmkuhl. 

Lehmkuhl currently serves on the Board of Directors of the California Association of REALTORS and the Combined L.A. Westside Multiple Listing Service. In his acceptance speech, Lehmkuhl thanked his mentors, friends and supporters. He credited his drive and ambition to having spent his formative years as part of the Malibu community. Lehmkuhl's first job in real estate was with Realtor, mentor and friend Chris Cortazzo, who was awarded the "Community Service Award" for his generosity to so many compassionate causes.

Also installed were Officers: President-Elect Matt Ogden, Vice President Mark Gruskin, Treasurer , Secretary Jennifer Chrisman, Past President Ross and Directors: Jan Thompson, Bill Bowling, Meril May, Derinda Moses, Teresa Hames, Brian Merrick, Brant Didden, Damon Skelton and the newest member to join the board Rick Wallace.

"Affiliate of the Year" was awarded to Barbara Praino and Malibu Escrow for decades of dedicated service to the Realtor community and profession. A special "Community Star" commendation was awarded to Malibu Patch editor Jonathan Friedman for his exceptional work creating one of the most successful of the AOL Patch websites in the nation, and for serving and caring deeply about the Malibu community.

Realtor Lenny Goldsmith was master of ceremonies and also sang a few numbers with the band headed by lead singer and Realtor Carol Casey. Event Chair Derinda Moses hosted the event.

Our nearly 800 Realtor members comprise the largest professional association in Malibu, but they are also very proud residents who give generously of their time and support, to many very important local causes, including advocating for private property rights. It's wonderful to gather once each year to celebrate the Realtor accomplishments of the past year. We encourage businesses and professionals from the community to sponsor a class or seminar for the Realtors and to join our organization.

Susan Manners is the executive director of the Malibu Association of REALTORS. She can be contacted at 310-456-5566 or info@maliburealtors.org.