In Memory of GAR Past President Brad Hvolbeck November 8, 1940 - August 17, 2025 The Board of Directors of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) and Greenwich Multiple Listing Service (GMLS) honors the memory of GAR Past President, Bradley Steele Hvolbeck. Brad joined GAR & GMLS in September 1968, and remained active through 2024, which earned him REALTOR® Emeritus status with over 50 years of membership and service in the Greenwich, Connecticut, and National Association of REALTORS®. Brad became very involved in leading the GAR & GMLS organizations, sitting for multiple terms as President between 1982-1986, 1991-1992, and 2002-2003 - the most of any GAR Past President - which is a testament to the respect he gained amongst his colleagues. Brad was awarded the GAR REALTOR® of the Year award in 2004, and shortly thereafter was inducted into the GAR Hall of Fame in 2006. Inductees of the GAR Hall of Fame exhibit the highest ethical standards, integrity and professionalism, and go above and beyond to volunteer in the community for the benefit of the public. Throughout the GAR Community, Brad will be remembered as a true professional. He was also quite the artist- His below original painting 'Nine Flags' is proudly displayed in the GAR Lobby.
CT REALTORS® FOUNDATION AWARDS $51,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS - 2025 RAYMOND F. GATES, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS ANNOUNCED HARTFORD, CT 6/30/25 – The Connecticut REALTORS ® Foundation recently awarded their 2025 Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship recipients. The Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1976 in memory of Raymond F. Gates, Jr. following his tragic death in an automobile accident. Mr. Gates was the Executive Vice President of the Connecticut REALTORS®. Over the past 49 years, children of REALTORS ® have been awarded scholarships totaling more than $1,000,000. For the 2024-2025 academic year, the Connecticut REALTORS® Foundation is proud to announce that 51 outstanding children of CT REALTORS® were selected to each receive a $1,000 scholarship. Greenwich REALTORS® is excited that 2 local recipients were among the 51 selected. Cameron Clark , daughter of REALTOR-Associate® Patricia Clark with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services New England in Greenwich, and Andrew Lowe , son of REALTOR® Julie Lowe with Houlihan Lawrence in Greenwich.
Greenwich, CT — January 17, 2025 The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) is delighted to announce the induction of John McAtee of Coldwell Banker Realty and New England Land Company into the prestigious Greenwich Realtors Hall of Fame. This honor celebrates John’s remarkable career, significant contributions to the real estate industry, and enduring impact on the Greenwich community. The GAR Hall of Fame is the highest honor presented to a member for their lifetime service to the real estate industry and the Greenwich community. With over three decades of service, John has held numerous influential roles, including multiple terms as a Director beginning in 2010, and serving as President of the GAR Board of Directors from 2019 to 2021. His extensive contributions also include serving as Chairperson of the Finance Committee and MLS Committee, as well as a long-standing member and BOD Liaison for multiple committees such as Professional Standards, Risk Reduction, and CTR Directors. John’s unparalleled commitment, strategic vision, and dedication to upholding the highest professional standards have left a lasting impact, making him a true leader in the real estate industry and a deserving Hall of Fame inductee. “John is one of the most thorough and detailed orientated people I’ve ever known,” stated Hilary McAtee, Awards Committee Member, colleague and wife to John. “His personal motto, ‘Always act in the client's best interest,’ isn’t just a saying, it’s his lifestyle. Whether it’s a ten million dollar transaction or a $2,000 a month rental, John brings the same dedication, care, border line obsessive, perfectionism to every deal. John also enjoys mentoring others, both at New England Land and beyond. His goal is not just his own success, but the success of everyone he works with. His service to the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® has been extraordinary, clearly John’s colleagues hold him in the highest regard, and by highest regard, we are all in awe of his energy and expertise.” Beyond his professional achievements, John has demonstrated a deep commitment to his community through his volunteer efforts. He has prepared lunches for children at the Carver Center, coached local youth ice hockey, and led initiatives to provide meals for police officers, firefighters, and hospital emergency room workers during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. John has also generously supported numerous local clubs and organizations. A talented athlete, he enjoys a wide range of activities, including skating, playing goalie in ice hockey, hiking, skiing, golf, and racquet sports. Notably, he is a national squash champion and has earned several competitive tennis titles, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and dedication both on and off the court. The award and induction was announced to members at the GAR Annual Meeting on Friday, January 17th, which was hosted at the Greenwich Country Club. “It’s a true honor,” stated John. “When you look out over this wonderful group of people who collectively give so much to one another and to say I’m honored is an understatement, and it's really only because of the quality of people that are in here that motivate all of us to pave in a certain way. We’ve got something very special, it’s an amazing organization.” John was previously honored as the 2021 Realtor of the Year, further underscoring his outstanding contributions to the field. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the organization provides professional development and support services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association includes over 850 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT. For more information about John McAtee and his induction into the Hall of Fame, please visit greenwichrealtors.com .
Greenwich, CT — January 17, 2025 The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) is proud to announce Cynthia De Riemer as the 2024 Realtor of the Year. This prestigious honor recognizes Cynthia’s exceptional dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the Greenwich real estate community. Cynthia De Riemer, a seasoned Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, has built a stellar reputation as a trusted advisor and advocate for her clients. With over two decades of experience, Cynthia has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence through her comprehensive knowledge of the Greenwich market, unparalleled client service, and dedication to her community. Based on her extensive involvement and leadership within the organization, Cynthia has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to serving her community and advancing the real estate profession. She has been an active participant in the Community Affairs Committee, serving as a member in both 2023 and 2024. Cynthia also held key leadership roles, including Secretary of the Executive Committee in 2022 and Director on the Board of Directors for two terms, from 2020 to 2022 and again in the current term, 2024 through 2026. Her dedication and contributions exemplify the qualities of a true leader, making her a deserving recipient of the prestigious Realtor of the Year award. Her volunteer work extends beyond real estate, encompassing roles on local PTA boards, the Riverside Association, and Friends of Greenwich Point. She also contributes as a board member of the First Congregational Church of Greenwich and the Riverside Garden Club. “She has committed herself night and day to achieving success in real estate,” said Sally Parris of Coldwell Banker Realty, member of Awards Committee and colleague to Cynthia. “When not at the office, she was devoted to her family. She is also health minded and every morning at the crack of dawn you can count on her walking or running on the beach. She has been very committed to the GAR and GMLS, all the positions she’s held, the commitments she’s made, and now she’s vice president of this wonderful organization. She also always has shared and given herself to support colleagues. She sets an example for us all. Her passions are demonstrated, her concern and consideration for others are self-evident. Her sense of responsibility, good business practices, ethical values, are to be highly respected. Centered, professional, dedicated, focused each step of the way, warm and sensitive.” Cynthia’s accolades include earning the Chairman’s Circle Gold designation, which places her among the top 2% of Berkshire Hathaway’s national network. She is also Global Luxury Marketing Certified and Corporate Relocation Certified, further demonstrating her expertise in serving diverse client needs. “Thank you, this is crazy, I don’t have anything to say other than, I’ll see you at the Point tomorrow morning around seven. Thank you very much!” stated Cynthia. The award was announced to members at the GAR Annual Meeting on Friday, January 17th, which was hosted at the Greenwich Country Club. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the organization provides professional development and support services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association includes over 850 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.For more information about Cynthia De Riemer and her contributions to the Greenwich real estate community, please visit greenwichrealtors.com .
December 5, 2024 - As the very first snowflakes of the season fell, 40 intrepid volunteers from the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) wrapped up the fifth annual “Fall HomeFront Days.” Their focus during this high-impact encore of their work with the program was to make the home of a Cos Cob widow in her 90s safer, warmer and more livable. By the end of their workday, they rectified some facia board damage to keep squirrels out, replaced dangerous steps and railings, patched and painted walls, cleaned gutters and installed new ones while dispatching a mountain of leaves and trimming shrubs and trees that threatened the home. GAR volunteers were in solidarity with 400 volunteers from 10 community groups participating across nine CT cities. Kicked off in late August, volunteers completed life-changing repairs through late November. With an eye toward making homes more livable for the colder months, this season’s outpouring united local corporate, civic and faith-based groups for the benefit of older adults on fixed incomes, veterans, persons with disabilities, single-parent households and families in transitional crisis. The event capped weeks of planning on behalf of volunteer leaders, representing a major step in HomeFront’s campaign to revitalize more than 50 homes in need this year at no cost to the beneficiaries. In addition to the dedicated helpers, this much needed service is made possible by grants, individual donations and volunteer sponsorships. HomeFront’s mission is especially crucial in the state of CT where low-income households are more likely to confront health and safety repair issues in their living spaces due to the 6th oldest housing stock in the nation, according to the Partnership for Strong Communities. The ability to afford repairs is hampered given this finding from the United Way of CT: more than one-third of CT homeowners spend over 30 percent of their income on housing. Many low-income families have been forced to defer crucial home maintenance while having weathered inflation in every area of their lives. In the words of Board Chair, Kenneth Wiegand, “HomeFront is proud to play a part in restoring housing stability to our neighbors in need. So many of our beneficiaries thank us for making their homes more livable while freeing up precious finances that they can apply to home heating fuel, food, prescriptions, textbooks and other necessities.” The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (a 501(c)6 organization) is the local trade association for real estate professionals in the Greenwich, CT area. GAR provides professional development, advocacy, and networking opportunities to members, and promotes the value of working with Greenwich Realtors to the public. Today’s HomeFront organizes Spring and Fall volunteer home repair group events. The program has also ratcheted up assistance with its new initiative called Critical Pro Repair (CPR). Through CPR, skilled HomeFront staff team up with one or two skilled volunteers to deliver crucial repairs such as wheelchair ramps, step and walkway overhauls and deck repairs to struggling families. More than 170 local families have received essential construction aid from HomeFront through CPR since 2020. The collective compassion of hands-on volunteers, product contributors, foundations and other donors brings HomeFront to the mark of more than 3,200 homes revitalized in program history, delivering $50 million of service where needed most since 1988. HomeFront is a community-based program dedicated to keeping low-income homeowners in their homes with an improved quality of life through substantial repairs completed at no cost to them. HomeFront is accepting applications for help from low-income households. All inquiries are kept confidential. More information on HomeFront can be found online at: www.homefrontprogram.org.
CT REALTORS® FOUNDATION AWARDS $82,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS - 2024 RAYMOND F. GATES, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS ANNOUNCED EAST HARTFORD, CT 8/28/24 – The Connecticut REALTORS ® Foundation awarded their 2024 Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship recipients. The Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1976 in memory of Raymond F. Gates, Jr. following his tragic death in an automobile accident. Mr. Gates was the Executive Vice President of the Connecticut REALTORS®. Over the past 48 years, children of REALTORS ® have been awarded scholarships totaling more than $1,000,000. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the Connecticut REALTORS® Foundation is proud to announce that 105 outstanding children of CT REALTORS® were selected to receive a total of $82,000 in scholarships. Greenwich REALTORS® is proud to announce 8 local recipients were among the 105 selected. Amelia Chichy , daughter of REALTOR® Blazej Cichy with Abart Estate LLC in New York City, Emma Connolly , daughter of REALTOR-Associate® Kathryn Connolly with Houlihan Lawrence in Riverside, Paulina Finz , daughter of REALTOR-Associate® Noah Finz with Houlihan Lawrence in Greenwich, Shayna Jampole , daughter of REALTOR-Associate® Stefanie Lacoff with Berkshire Hathaway in Greenwich, Ruby Lamkin , daughter of REALTOR-Associate® Tracy Orrico with Coldwell Banker Realty in Greenwich, Kealan O’Meara, son of REALTOR-Associate® Cora Lynch-O'Meara with Brown Harris Stevens in Greenwich, Ilze Ulyanov, daughter of REALTOR-Associate® Tatiana Ulyanov with Coldwell Banker Realty in Greenwich, and Estella Zeppelin, daughter of REALTOR-Associate® Amy Zeppelin with Van Hoesen Realty Corp. in Greenwich.
The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® gives two renewable scholarships each year: the Robert S. Curtis Memorial Award is given in memory of a distinguished Greenwich realtor with a long record of service to the real estate community and to the town. The second award is the Greenwich Multiple Listing Service Award. The recipients of these awards must balance a good academic record with extra-curricular or job-related activities. Each scholarship is $4000/year for each year of college. When possible, we try to award the scholarships to children of realtors. Scholarship candidates are sent to us from the Greenwich Scholarship Association and recipients are chosen by members of the GAR Scholarship Committee. This year both of our recipients have parents who are realtors. This week The Robert S. Curtis Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Ruby Lamkin who is attending The University of Delaware. The Greenwich Multiple Listing Award was given to Kiley Goldfarb who is attending Indiana University. Thank you to the members of the GAR Scholarship Committee for their careful consideration of candidates. Thank you to all members of the Greenwich Association of Realtors for your generosity in supporting our students and giving back to the Greenwich community. Barbara Hindman, Chair, GAR Scholarship Committee
January 12, 2024 (Greenwich, CT) – The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) announced that Bryan Tunney, Managing Broker of Brown Harris Stevens CT, LLC has been honored as the most recent member of the small group that comprises the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® Hall of Fame. The GAR Hall of Fame is the highest honor presented to a member for their lifetime service to the real estate industry and the Greenwich community. Tunney has been a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, Connecticut Association of REALTORS®, and Greenwich Association of REALTORS® beginning March 17, 2004. Bryan has proven his extraordinary commitment to the real estate industry and community through his service at the local, state, and national levels. Throughout his nearly 20 years as a REALTOR®, Bryan has served in the following capacities for the Greenwich Association of Realtors: Board of Directors 2012-2024, Education Committee 2010-2020, Finance Committee 2015-2024, Local Issues Committee 2010-2015, Professional Standards Committee 2017-2024, RPAC & Legislative Issues Committee 2006-2012, Scholarship Committee 2006-2024, and the Social Committee from 2006-2010. At the State level Bryan has served a number of years on the CT Association of Realtors Board of Directors, as well as the following committees: BOD Appeals, Endorsement, Finance, Independent Expenditures, Issues Advocacy, Legislative & Political Affairs, Political Fundraising, Grassroots Committee, RPAC Trustees, and Strategic Planning. Tunney has also served in past years on the State and Local Issues Policy Committee and Board of Directors for the National Association of Realtors, and is the current Vice Chair of NAR's Risk Management and Issues Committee. Beyond his contributions to the real estate industry, Bryan serves on the Board of Directors for the Transportation Association of Greenwich, which provides specialized transportation for seniors, disabled individuals and school-age youth. Tunney has also coached and volunteered with the Greenwich Youth Lacrosse organization for over 30 years. Tom Gorin, past president of the Greenwich Association of Realtors and fellow Hall of Famer, surprised Tunney with the award and induction at the 100th GAR Annual Meeting on Friday, January 12th, which was hosted at the Greenwich Country Club. “I was pleased and flattered to be asked to present the award to Bryan, and to “say a few words” about him. There was just so much material there! Bryan’s real estate career began at our firm — and there never was a dull moment from the first day on. It was fun for me to tell some of our history.” "I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the Association and my fellow members. It is an honor working with the local Realtors and staff who are the best in the business," exclaimed Bryan. "I look forward to continuing my volunteer efforts as GAR celebrates it's 100th Anniversary this year." The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association is celebrating it's 100th Anniversary this year. The organization provides professional development and support services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association includes over 850 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
January 12, 2024 (Greenwich, CT) – The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) Announced that Pam Cunconan of Coldwell Banker Realty is GAR’s REALTOR® of the Year for 2023. The REALTOR® of the Year Award is among the highest honors presented to a member and is based upon leadership and contributions made to the Greenwich Association of REALTORS®, Connecticut Association of REALTORS®, National Association of REALTORS®, and the Greenwich community. Pam has been a REALTOR® since 1997, and is actively involved as the chair of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® 100 Year Celebration Task Force, which has implemented multi-faceted efforts to celebrate the organization's 100th Anniversary. Pam has been a driving force in transforming the record keeping process for archival items for the Association and MLS into the future, and throughout the process has uncovered some pivotal historical moments for the organizations. She has also lead the task force to plan various activities, events, and press releases to engage members and the community in the centennial festivities. Cunconan previously served on the GAR & GMLS Board of Directors from 2017-2019, and throughout her tenure as a member, she has volunteered her time on the Professional Standards Committee beginning in 1998, 2000, 2001, the Education Committee in 1998, 2000, 2001, the MLS Committee in 2007, 2009, and the Grievance Committee from 2009-2022. As a member of GAR for over 26 years, Pam's involvement has also included active participation in association events and activities, coupled with selfless dedication to teaching ethics to new agents. In addition to her professional endeavors, Pam is deeply committed to making a positive impact in the community. Her involvement in charitable outreach programs, such as Meals on Wheels, ABILIS and senior community endeavors, reflects a genuine concern for the well-being of others. Another program she has proudly volunteered for is called "Puppies Behind Bars". This program allows prisoners to train puppies to be service dogs during the week. Pam's job as a volunteer was to take the dogs out of the prison for socialization, including activities like train rides, visiting parks and social skills that they otherwise would not get exposure to those environments. Once trained, the dogs will be given to Vets or persons with special needs. Pam has also worked with Ukrainians learning to speak English. "I'm proud to receive this honor and grateful to all those who came before me and so generously shared their knowledge and expertise. Let’s keep that tradition alive", stated Pam Cunconan. Pam was presented with the award by Sally Parris, member of the Awards Committee. “As a mentor, this individual has left a permanent and positive mark on countless individuals. The guidance and wisdom have played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of many, embodying the qualities of a true leader by cultivating an environment of growth, professionalism, and camaraderie among peers," stated Sally Parris. The award was announced to members at the GAR Annual Meeting on Friday, January 12th, which was hosted at the Greenwich Country Club. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
September 23, 2023 - Leaves may be falling soon but hopes are very much on the rise thanks to hundreds of good-hearted volunteers preparing to fix up 12 homes across nine cities in CT during this year’s Fall HomeFront Days – all at no cost to the recipients. This aid could not come sooner to older adults living on social security, low-income veterans, persons with disabilities, single-parent households and families in transitional crisis due to illness or job loss. Hundreds of residents have turned to HomeFront for help with substantial repair needs this year. In every case, our most vulnerable neighbors are contending with stubbornly high inflation as they brace themselves for the colder months. Volunteer leaders from the Greenwich Association of Realtors dedicated weeks of planning to bring peace of mind to an older gentleman and Greenwich resident of 30 years who now has health issues and financial limitations of his own after caring for his father for quite some time. On Sat., Sept 23rd, some 40 real estate professionals and contractors rolled up their sleeves with an agenda that encompassed new gutters, overhauling hazardous front steps and railings, door repairs, cleanup, landscaping, plumbing improvements, lattice work and fresh coats of paint. Many segments of the Greenwich community stepped up to the cause, including generously donated skilled construction expertise, landscaping needs, and a host of local businesses who gifted refreshments to fuel the hometown helpers. Special shout outs are in order to the following local contractors and businesses for their contributions: Local contractors David Dall of Total Home Management (Greenwich, CT), Enrique Gutierrez of A.E. Gutierrez Contracting (Stamford, CT), and Stephen Kane of SKG Investment Partners (Greenwich, CT) and their teams dedicated their time and efforts both on the volunteer day and beyond to various life-changing projects for the beneficiary, and also provided the necessary guidance and safety oversight to volunteers. Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses (437 North St, Greenwich) went above and beyond with their donation of perennial plants and trees that will bring new life and brightness to the property for years to come. Dunkin Donuts (271 West Putnam Ave, Greenwich) provided coffee and donuts, and Upper Crust Bagels (197 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich) contributed bagels and spreads to fuel our morning volunteers. Glenville Pizza (243 Glenville Road, Greenwich) and Happiness Is Catering (1067 North St, Greenwich) generously donated pizzas and sandwiches for the volunteer lunch, and Edible Arrangements (384 West Putnam Ave, Greenwich) and Aux Delices (3 West Elm St, Greenwich) provided a much needed sweet treat to help afternoon volunteers power through the cold, rainy afternoon. Mattress Firm (159 West Putnam Ave, Greenwich) also provided a substantial discount on a new mattress for the beneficiary. Additional product and service contributors included: Ace Hardware, Bethel (building supplies); Allway Tools, Bronx, NY (tools); Behr Paint, Santa Anna, CA (paint); DAP Products, Baltimore, MD (caulk); H.J. Hoffman & Co., Norwalk (screenprinting); Mercury Excelum, East Windsor (windows) Ring’s End, Bethel (doors and construction materials); The Home Depot, Danbury (building materials); Wooster Brush Co, Wooster, OH (paint sundries). The project and improvements could not have been possible without the support of these wonderful contributors and volunteers. A tradition 36 years in the making, these Fall HomeFront Days are a major step forward in the program’s goal of delivering housing stability to 75 of our most vulnerable neighbors this year. According to HomeFront’s Board Chair, Kenneth Wiegand, “The Greenwich Association of Realtors could not be more of a natural fit with our mission. Their life’s work revolves around the importance of a decent home. We are honored to partner with them.” Today’s HomeFront organizes Spring and Fall volunteer home repair group events. The program has also ratcheted up assistance with its new initiative called Critical Pro Repair (CPR). Through CPR, skilled HomeFront staff team up with one or two skilled volunteers to deliver crucial repairs such as wheelchair ramps, step and walkway overhauls and deck repairs to struggling families. More than 85 local families have received essential construction aid from HomeFront through CPR since 2020. The collective compassion of hands-on volunteers, product contributors, foundations and other donors brings HomeFront to the mark of more than 3,200 homes revitalized in program history, delivering $50 million of service where needed most since 1988. HomeFront is a community-based program dedicated to keeping low-income homeowners in their homes with an improved quality of life through substantial repairs completed at no cost to them. More information on HomeFront can be found online at: www.homefrontprogram.org . MEDIA CONTACTS: Sean O’Brien, HomeFront , (203) 658-9664 Stacey Loh, Greenwich Association of REALTORS® , (203) 869-0240
Greenwich, CT (June 28, 2023) - The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) and Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc. (GMLS) announced the 2023 recipients of two renewable scholarships towards college tuition. The scholarship application process is managed by the Greenwich Scholarship Association, which distributed about $750,000 in college funding from over 100 sponsors to 82 graduating high school seniors this year. The GAR Scholarship Committee reviews the candidates for scholarships annually. Preference is given to children of Greenwich REALTORS®, and those demonstrating strong academic performance. The Robert S. Curtis Memorial Award, furnished by GAR, is given in memory of a distinguished Greenwich Realtor with a long record of service to the real estate community, and to the Town of Greenwich. In addition, Greenwich Multiple Listing Service Award is awarded annually by the GMLS. Both scholarships award $4,000 to each recipient towards college tuition and are renewable throughout each year of college for the students who maintain their strong academic standing. The GAR Scholarship Committee is thrilled to announce Isabelle Goldfarb as the 2023 recipient of the Robert S. Curtis Memorial Scholarship. Isabelle will be attending Indiana University. Saskia Jakubcin is the deserving recipient of the 2023 Greenwich Multiple Listing Scholarship. She will be attending Southern Methodist University. Barbara Hindman is honored to chair the GAR Scholarship Committee and thanks the members of the committee for their commitment to the selection of the recipients each year. She would also like to thank the Board of Directors of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® and all GAR members for their generosity in funding these scholarships.
CT REALTORS® FOUNDATION AWARDS $58,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS - 2023 RAYMOND F. GATES, JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS ANNOUNCED EAST HARTFORD, CT (May 31, 2023) – The Connecticut REALTORS ® Foundation announced their 2023 Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship winners. The Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1976 in memory of Raymond F. Gates, Jr. following his tragic death in an automobile accident. Mr. Gates was the Executive Vice President of the Connecticut REALTORS®. Over the past 47 years, children of REALTORS ® have been awarded scholarships totaling more than $1,000,000. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the Connecticut REALTORS® Foundation received more than 135 applications. This year, 59 outstanding children of CT REALTORS® were selected to receive a total of $58,000 in scholarships. Greenwich REALTORS® is proud to announce 3 local recipients were among the 59 selected. Adem Murad , son of REALTOR®-Associate Ammar Murad of Coldwell Banker Realty in Greenwich, Sofia Pelle , daughter of Greenwich Association Staff member Deanna Pelle, and Ekaterina Ulyanov , daughter of REALTOR®-Associate Tatiana Ulyanov of Coldwell Banker.
December 31st, 2022 (Greenwich, CT) – The Board of Directors for the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® and Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc. is proud to announce $60,000 in year-end charitable donations to community organizations. The funds have been distributed to nine local non-profits and services whose missions contribute to improving the lives of residents throughout the Greenwich area, and strengthening the community: Abilis, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides services and supports for over 700 individuals with special needs and their families from birth through the lifespan. Greenwich Emergency Medical Services (GEMS), a not-for-profit organization, is the sole provider of emergency services to the Town of Greenwich. Greenwich United Way has been a trusted partner of the Greenwich community, government and local organizations since 1933. The company has focused on community solutions in the areas of education, financial stability and health for over 85 years. Kids in Crisis provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling, and community education programs for children of all ages and families facing crisis. Crisis can include domestic violence, mental health concerns, homelessness, substance abuse, economic difficulties, and other critical challenges. The Kids In Crisis Helpline is staffed 24 hours a day with trained Crisis Counselors, and provides free, confidential phone and face-to-face intervention, counseling, and referrals. Neighbor to Neighbor improves the lives of residents in need throughout the Greenwich area and strengthens our community by creating access to food, clothing and basic living essentials in an atmosphere of kindness and respect. River House founded in 1977, remains committed to providing the highest quality care to aging adults in Greenwich, Stamford, and the surrounding areas while offering guidance and support to their caregivers. River House's mission is to provide adult day care that works for all families. Greenwich Silver Shield Association an organization of Professional Police Officers providing excellent police services to the citizens and business community of the Town of Greenwich, supporting programs that promote safety and better police/community relations. Greenwich Tree Conservancy is an organization with a mission is to preserve and enhance the tree and forest resources of Greenwich to benefit our community, our health and our quality of life. "All reports show that trees are the best answer to climate change and assist in the reduction of flooding and improvement to air quality. Thanks so very much for allowing us to continue our work," explained JoAnn Messina, Executive Director of the Greenwich Tree Conservancy. Transportation Association of Greenwich (TAG) a Greenwich non-profit serving Greenwich residents of all ages with safe, reliable, convenient and courteous transportation. "The donation from the Greenwich Realtors will help TAG continue to service our Greenwich residents, whether its delivering food from Neighbor to Neighbor to our residents who are food insecure, or to the many Dr’s appointments that Greenwich’s elderly and disabled residents need to get to so they stay healthy, which includes Dialysis and Cancer treatments," thanked Debbie Vetromile, Executive Director of TAG. In addition to the year-end contributions to local charities, members of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® and Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc. also participated in raising funds and awareness for various other initiatives throughout 2022. Those efforts included a $10,000 contribution for the Gold Level Partnership to the Greenwich Community Projects Fund "Let there Be Lights" , which was responsible for a longstanding tradition and beautiful display of holiday lights for the community and local businesses throughout Greenwich. GAR and GMLS members also hosted a virtual food drive and Snow Boot/Thermal Sock drive to benefit Neighbor to Neighbor . Additionally, candles were sold to raise funds to benefit Kids in Crisis . Members also participated in the CT REALTORS® Foundation “Be Homeful for the Holidays” campaign in partnership with the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness , which has provided holiday cheer to more than 5,000 children living in CT shelters and has helped more than 1,000 families avoid the hardship of homelessness. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® (including the Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc.) and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. Headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, GAR and GMLS serve over 1200 members and subscribers combined.
January 13, 2023 (Greenwich, CT) – The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) Announced that Joann Erb of Brown Harris Stevens, CT LLC is GAR’s REALTOR® of the Year for 2022. The REALTOR® of the Year Award is the highest honor presented to a member and is based upon leadership and contributions made to the Greenwich Association of REALTORS®, Connecticut Association of REALTORS®, National Association of REALTORS®, and the Greenwich community. Joann has been a REALTOR® since 1989, and has been actively involved as a member of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® Risk Reduction Committee. She participated on the GAR & GMLS Board of Directors from 2014-2019, 2021-2022, and serving as President from 2015-2016. Erb has also served as a Director for the Connecticut Association of REALTORS® from 2015-2016. Joann served for more than 20 years as the Vice President and Managing Director of Round Hill Partners, a privately owned real estate boutique in Greenwich, Connecticut. She founded the local real estate firm with a colleague and they quickly grew the firm to a market leader in Greenwich. In her role, she oversaw more than 25 agents working throughout the local community. Joann Erb is the Director of Sales, Greenwich for Brown Harris Stevens, where she is responsible for the strategic growth of the firm in the local area and the day-to-day management of the Greenwich office. In addition to her professional commitments, a longtime resident of Greenwich, Joann is energetically involved in the town. She most recently served as President of the Lucas Point Association and as a past member of the Board for the Bruce Museum, as well as previous PTA member at the Old Greenwich School. Joann and her husband have two children and one grandchild. Joann was presented with the award by Alice Duff, Chair of the Awards Committee, along with colleague Diddle McAllister of Brown Harris Stevens. “I am certain there are many more things that should have made this list, being stealth isn't a strong point of mine, so I chose to dig shallow to keep the surprise! Perhaps most importantly, Joann is mother of two amazing adults, grandmother of two adorable kids and a myriad of grand dogs (with an occasional cat foster situation thrown in). I can't think of a more deserving agent to receive this honor", stated Diddle McAllister. The award was announced to members at the GAR Annual Meeting on Friday, January 13th, which was hosted at the Greenwich Country Club. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
January 13, 2023 (Greenwich, CT) – The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) announced that Jacqueline Hammock, a Broker with Coldwell Banker Realty, has been honored as the most recent member of the small group that comprises the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® Hall of Fame. The GAR Hall of Fame is the highest honor presented to a member for their lifetime service to the real estate industry and the Greenwich community. Hammock has been a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, Connecticut Association of REALTORS®, and Greenwich Association of REALTORS® beginning February 19, 1985. Jackie served as the following GAR Committees: Education 2006-2007, Grievance 1998, 2006-2007, MLS 2005-2007 and Professional Standards 2001-2022. A real estate agent since 1985, Hammock has a B.S. Degree in Finance, and an MBA in Marketing. Having grown up in Greenwich, she has lived in many areas of town and enjoyed renovating many homes. This has provided a perspective on clients needs whether they are preparing to list their homes for sale or are searching for a new home. She got into the real estate business because she and her husband have renovated many homes in Greenwich. She understands good value. In the community, Hammock is a Former Greenwich RTM member on the Finance Committee, past PTA officer, Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader, Riverside Association Governor, YWCA Board Member, Junior League of Greenwich Board Member. Hammock has lived in many of the communities within Greenwich for 50+ years and now lives in Old Greenwich with her husband Bill. Their two grown children attended the Greenwich Public Schools, as did Jackie. Hammock was awarded with the REALTOR® Hall of Fame induction by Awards Committee member Sally Parris, backed by the approval of the GAR Board of Directors. "This individual has always been ethical, even keeled and above board in her real estate and community endeavors. She supports her fellow colleagues and demonstrates her professional expertise on all levels. Quiet, modest, giving of herself, she displays the attributes it takes to receive this special honor. She sets an example for all of us to follow", stated Sally Parris. The award and induction was announced to members at the GAR Annual Meeting on Friday, January 13th, which was hosted at the Greenwich Country Club. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and support services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
GREENWICH ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® DELIVERS PADDINGTON™ GIFTS TO CHILDREN IN LOCAL SHELTERS The plush bears were “raised” to help local families remain in their homes. Approximately 3,000 people across CT are homeless on any given night and 1 in 5 of those are children under 18. Paddington™ bears were “raised” as part of the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness 7th annual be homeful for the holidays campaign. For every $25 donated, the CT REALTORS ® Foundation sponsored the gift of a Paddington bear or backpack for older children spending the holidays in a shelter. This allowed all money raised to go directly to the be homeful fund. The fund provides emergency assistance that frontline workers can access to help local families remain in their homes rather than enter the shelter system. The be homeful project has served over 2,000 children in 1,000 families since 2015. This year, the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® delivered gifts locally to Kids In Crisis and YWCA Greenwich Domestic Abuse Services .
CT REALTORS® FOUNDATION AWARDS $54,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS - 2022 RAYMOND F. GATES JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS ANNOUNCED EAST HARTFORD, CT (June 9, 2022) – The Connecticut REALTORS® Foundation announced their 2022 Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship winners. The Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1976 in memory of Raymond F. Gates, Jr. following his tragic death in an automobile accident. Mr. Gates was the Executive Vice President of the Connecticut REALTORS®. Over the past 46 years, children of REALTORS® have been awarded scholarships totaling more than $1,000,000. For the 2021-2022 academic year, the Connecticut REALTORS® Foundation received more than 100 applications. This year, 62 outstanding children of CT REALTORS® were selected to receive a total of $54,000 in scholarships. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is proud to announce 5 local receipts were among the 62 selected. Thomas Connolly, son of REALTOR®-Associate Kathryn Connolly of Houlihan Lawrence, Paulina Finz, daughter of REALTOR®-Associate Noah Finz of Houlihan Lawrence, Ella Magnuson, daughter of REALTOR®-Associate Steven Magnuson of Douglas Elliman, Bryce Metalios, son of REALTOR® Joy Metalios of Houlihan Lawrence, and Ekaterina Ulyanov, daughter of REALTOR®-Associate Tatiana Ulyanov of Coldwell Banker.
January 14th, 2022 (Greenwich, CT)– The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® “GAR” announced the 2022 Officers and Directors at their 98th Virtual Annual Membership meeting on Friday. This group also serves as the Board of Directors for the Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS®. Bryan Tunney, Broker of Sotheby’s International Realty, will serve as the GAR President as he begins a new term in 2022. Tunney has been a Realtor member since 2004, and has actively served on the Board of Directors since 2012. He has also been engaged with various GAR committees throughout his membership including Finance, Education, Social, RPAC and Legislative, Scholarship, and Local Issues. BK Bates, Agent of Houlihan Lawrence, will be serving as Vice President of GAR as she begins a new term in 2022. Bates has been a Realtor member since 1976, and has actively served on the Board of Directors since 2015. She served as President of GAR/GMLS from 2017-2018, and has been engaged in the Grievance, MLS, and Professional Standards Committees throughout her time as a member. George Cain, Agent of Charles Paternina, is serving as the Treasurer of GAR and GMLS. He begins the second year of his current term in 2022. George joined as a Realtor member in 2005, and has served on the Board of Directors since 2014. He is actively involved with the RPAC and Legislative, MLS, and Professional Standards committees. Cynthia De Riemer, Agent of Coldwell Banker, is serving as the Secretary of GAR and GMLS, during year three of her current term in 2022. De Riemer has been a Realtor member since 2007, and has been actively involved in the Greenwich community. Carolyn Anderson, Head Broker of Anderson Associates, will be serving the third year of her current term as Director in 2022. Anderson has been a Realtor member since 1987, and has actively served on the GAR/GMLS Board since 1999. She was President in 2007, and has been engaged with the Awards, Education, Equal Opportunity Housing, Grievance, International and Professional Standards Committees over the years. William Andruss, Jr, Agent of Compass Connecticut, LLC begins his first term as a Director in 2022. Andruss has been a Realtor member since 1986, and has been engaged with the Professional Standards, Risk Reduction Committees, as well as a CTR Director over the years. Eric Bjork, Head Broker of Berkshire Hathaway New England Properties, is serving the third year of his current term in 2022. Bjork has been a Realtor member since 1998, and has served on the Board of Directors previously from 2009-2011, and from 2014-2017. He has been engaged with the Awards, Education, Finance, Grievance, Professional Standards, Scholarship, and Risk Reduction committees during his time as a GAR member. Joann Erb, Head Broker of Brown Harris Stevens CT, LLC, is serving her second year of her current term in 2022. Erb has been a Realtor member since 1989, and has served on the Board of Directors since 2016. She has also been engaged with various GAR committees throughout her membership including Professional Standards and Risk Reduction, along with serving on the CTR Directors. Maria Ruggeberg, Agent of William Raveis Real Estate, is serving her second year of her current term in 2022. Maria has been a Realtor member since 1991, and has served on the Board of Directors since 2018. She has been actively engaged with the Awards, Finance, and International Committees of GAR and GMLS. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
January 14, 2021 (Greenwich, CT) – The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) Announced that John McAtee of New England Land Company is GAR’s REALTOR® of the Year for 2021. The REALTOR® of the Year Award is the highest honor presented to a member and is based upon leadership and contributions made to the Greenwich Association of REALTORS®, Connecticut Association of REALTORS®, National Association of REALTORS®, and the Greenwich community. John has been a REALTOR® since 1989, and has been actively involved as a member of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® Executive, Finance, MLS, Professional Standards Committees. He participated on the GAR & GMLS Board of Directors from 2008-2021, serving as President from 2019-2021. McAtee has also served as a Director for the Connecticut Association of REALTORS® since 2019. John began his career in Real Estate at at Merritt Associates and as of 1998, he co-owns and manages New England Land Company with his wife, Hillary. In addition to his professional commitments, John's volunteer undertakings include preparing lunches for children at the Carver Center, coaching local youth ice hockey, spearheading meals for area police, firefighters and hospital emergency room workers during this past year Covid turmoil, as well as generously contributing to various local clubs and organizations. A gifted athlete, John enjoys skating and ice hockey, playing goalie, hiking, skiing, golf and all racquet sports. He is a squash national champion, and has won various competitive tennis championships. John was presented with the award by Alice Duff, Chair of the Awards Committee. “You all heard this gentleman speak this morning, so I don’t really need to go into detail about his professionalism and give him any more kudos to the way he has lead this association for the past 3 very, very difficult years. He’s always been positive, always been upbeat. This person is open to new ideas and suggestions. He does analyze them, which is great, and then puts it to a vote, or comes up with a good decision," stated Duff. "He has run a very effective, successful real estate firm along with his wife for many years, and I’m very excited to make this Award to John McAtee." The award was announced to members at the GAR Annual Meeting on Friday, January 14th, which was hosted virtually for the second time in 98 years due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
December 28th, 2021 (Greenwich, CT) – The Board of Directors for the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® and Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc. is proud to announce $60,000 in year-end charitable donations to community organizations. “Many of our Greenwich Realtor members serve our community in volunteer and leadership positions across various local organizations throughout the year. In recognition of those efforts, our organization is proud to provide additional support to our community partners who work diligently to make Greenwich an amazing town to live, work, and play," explained 2021 GAR President, and Broker of New England Land Company, John McAtee. The funds have been distributed to nine local non-profits and services whose missions contribute to improving the lives of residents throughout the Greenwich area, and strengthening the community: Abilis, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides services and supports for over 700 individuals with special needs and their families from birth through the lifespan. Greenwich Emergency Medical Services (GEMS), a not-for-profit organization, is the sole provider of emergency services to the Town of Greenwich. Greenwich United Way has been a trusted partner of the Greenwich community, government and local organizations since 1933. The company has focused on community solutions in the areas of education, financial stability and health for over 85 years. Kids in Crisis provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling, and community education programs for children of all ages and families facing crisis. Crisis can include domestic violence, mental health concerns, homelessness, substance abuse, economic difficulties, and other critical challenges. The Kids In Crisis Helpline is staffed 24 hours a day with trained Crisis Counselors, and provides free, confidential phone and face-to-face intervention, counseling, and referrals. Neighbor to Neighbor improves the lives of residents in need throughout the Greenwich area and strengthens our community by creating access to food, clothing and basic living essentials in an atmosphere of kindness and respect. River House founded in 1977, remains committed to providing the highest quality care to aging adults in Greenwich, Stamford, and the surrounding areas while offering guidance and support to their caregivers. River House's mission is to provide adult day care that works for all families. Greenwich Silver Shield Association an organization of Professional Police Officers providing excellent police services to the citizens and business community of the Town of Greenwich, supporting programs that promote safety and better police/community relations. Greenwich Tree Conservancy is an organization with a mission is to preserve and enhance the tree and forest resources of Greenwich to benefit our community, our health and our quality of life. "The Greenwich Tree Conservancy is so very thankful for this donation as it has been a difficult year in that we have not had our Annual fundraiser for two years. We have continued planting trees on public lands and this donation will allow us to continue that important work. All reports show that trees are the best answer to climate change and assist in the reduction of flooding and improvement to air quality. Thanks so very much for allowing us to continue our work," explained JoAnn Messina, Executive Director of the Greenwich Tree Conservancy. Transportation Association of Greenwich (TAG) a Greenwich non-profit serving Greenwich residents of all ages with safe, reliable, convenient and courteous transportation. "The donation from the Greenwich Realtors will help TAG continue to service our Greenwich residents, whether its delivering food from Neighbor to Neighbor to our residents who are food insecure, or to the many Dr’s appointments that Greenwich’s elderly and disabled residents need to get to so they stay healthy, which includes Dialysis and Cancer treatments," thanked Debbie Vetromile, Executive Director of TAG. In addition to the year-end contributions to local charities, members of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® and Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc. also participated in raising funds and awareness for various other initiatives throughout 2021. Those efforts included contributions to the Greenwich Community Projects Fund, which was responsible for bringing the holiday lights back to downtown Greenwich this season. GAR and GMLS members also hosted a virtual food drive and a hats, scarves and gloves drive to benefit Neighbor to Neighbor. Additionally, gift cards were collected and candles were sold to raise funds to benefit Kids in Crisis. Members also participated in the CT REALTORS® Foundation “Be Homeful for the Holidays” campaign in partnership with the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, which has provided holiday cheer to more than 5,000 children living in CT shelters and has helped more than 1,000 families avoid the hardship of homelessness. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® (including the Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc.) and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. Headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, GAR and GMLS serve over 1200 members and subscribers combined.
GREENWICH ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® DELIVERS PADDINGTON™ GIFTS TO CHILDREN IN LOCAL SHELTERS The plush bears were “raised” to help local families remain in their homes. Approximately 2,600 people across CT are homeless on any given night and 1 in 7 of those are children under 18. Paddington™ bears were “raised” as part of the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness 6th annual be homeful for the holidays campaign. For every $25 donated, the CT REALTORS® Foundation sponsored the gift of a Paddington bear for a child spending the holidays in a shelter or a backpack for older children. This allowed all money raised to go directly to the be homeful fund. The fund provides emergency assistance that frontline workers can access to help local families remain in their homes rather than enter the shelter system. The be homeful project has served over 1,900 children in 900 families since 2015. This year, the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® delivered gifts locally to Kids in Crisis in Cos Cob and the YWCA in Greenwich. In total, GAR delivered around 190 bears and 50 back packs to both organizations.
Greenwich, CT (July 2, 2021)- The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) and Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc. (GMLS) announced the 2021 recipients of two renewable scholarships towards college tuition. The scholarship application process is managed by the Greenwich Scholarship Association, which distributed nearly $600,000 in college funding from various contributors to 103 graduating high school seniors this year. The GAR Scholarship Committee, chaired by Barbara Hindman of Sotheby’s International Realty, reviews the candidates for scholarships annually. Preference is given to children of Greenwich REALTORS®, and those demonstrating strong academic performance. “It is an honor to serve on the GAR Scholarship Committee. Thank you to my fellow Committee members for your commitment in the selection of the recipients each year. I’d also like to thank the Board of Directors of the Greenwich Association of Realtors, and all members of the organization for their generosity in funding these scholarships. We are thrilled to be able to give back to the community and help fund the futures of Greenwich students,” Barbara stated. The Robert S. Curtis Memorial Award, furnished by GAR, is given in memory of a distinguished Greenwich Realtor with a long record of service to the real estate community, and to the Town of Greenwich. In addition, Greenwich Multiple Listing Service Award is awarded annually by the GMLS. Both scholarships award $4,000 to each recipient towards college tuition and are renewable throughout each year of college for the students who maintain their strong academic standing. The GAR Scholarship Committee is thrilled to announce Sofia Garcia as the 2021 recipient of the Robert S. Curtis Memorial Scholarship. Sofia will be attending the AMDA College and Conservatory of the Performing Arts in Los Angeles, California. She is the daughter of Juan Carlos Garcia, Head Broker of Sunbelt Sales & Development Corp. Ashley O’Hara is the deserving recipient of the 2021 Greenwich Multiple Listing Scholarship. She will be attending the American University of Paris in Paris, France, and is the daughter of Jacqueline Wetenhall, Director of Retail Development for Stamford Downtown, and formerly affiliated with Round Hill Properties. The Greenwich REALTORS® organization congratulates the recipients and their fellow graduates, and sends wishes for their continued success into the future.
CT REALTORS® FOUNDATION AWARDS $51,750 IN SCHOLARSHIPS - 2021 RAYMOND F. GATES JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS ANNOUNCED EAST HARTFORD, CT (JULY 7, 2021) - The Connecticut REALTORS® Foundation announced their 2021 Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship winners. The Raymond F. Gates Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1976 in memory of Raymond F. Gates, Jr. follow his tragic death in an automobile accident. Mr. Gates was the Executive Vice President of the Connecticut REALTORS®. Over the past 45 years, children of REALTORS® have been awarded scholarships totaling more than $1,000,000. For the 2020-2021 academic year, the Connecticut REALTORS® Foundation received more than 100 applications. This year, 41 outstanding children of CT REALTORS® were selected to receive a total of $51,750. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is proud to announce 2 local receipts were among the 41 selected. Ella Magnuson, daughter of REALTOR®-Associate Steven Magnuson of Douglas Elliman and REALTOR®-Associate Ekaterina Ulyanov, daughter of Tatiana Ulyanov of Coldwell Banker.
January 15, 2021 (Greenwich, CT) – The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) Announced that Maria Ruggeberg of William Ravies Real Estate of Greenwich is GAR’s REALTOR® of the Year for 2020. The REALTOR® of the Year Award is the highest honor presented to a member and is based upon leadership and contributions made to the Greenwich Association of REALTORS®, Connecticut Association of REALTORS®, National Association of REALTORS®, and the Greenwich community. Maria has been a REALTOR® since 1991, and has been actively involved as a member of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® Awards, Finance, and International Committees. In 2005-2006, she served on the Rules and Regulations Committee and in 2019, Maria was the Chairman of the International Committee. She is currently serving her second 3-year term as a GAR Director, her first term beginning in 2018. Maria has a passion for mentorship and has had the opportunity to train over 20 new Realtors during her time at William Raveis Real Estate. In addition to her professional commitments, Maria graduated from William's College with a BA and Stanford University Graduate School of Business with an MBA, and speaks fluent Spanish, French and Portuguese. Maria is very fond of volunteering within her community. She has partaken in the Thread and Treads event; a 13 mile running/biking event, assisting with the coordination and set-up of the event. For five years, she participated in the William Raveis Walk/Ride; riding her bike 12 miles, in support of Damon Runyon Cancer Research Foundation. With her passion for education, Maria volunteered at the Parkway School between 1994-1998, set-up the afters program and taught a Spanish class. Maria also volunteered at Greenwich High School for four years assisting with administrative duties. Maria was presented with the award by Sally Parris, 2008 Realtor of the Year and 2015 GAR Hall of Fame inductee. "I personally know Maria to be a very caring, loving parent and individual who has had many challenges in her life and she has always stepped-up with sincere commitment and dedication to whatever task is at hand", stated Parris. The award was announced to members at the GAR Annual Meeting on Friday, January 15th, which was hosted virtually for the first time ever in 97 years due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
January 15, 2021 (Greenwich, CT)– The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) announced that the late David Ogilvy, a former Broker Associate with Sotheby’s International Realty, and a past President of GAR, has been honored as the most recent member of the small group that comprises the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® Hall of Fame. The GAR Hall of Fame is the highest honor presented to a member for their lifetime service to the real estate industry and the Greenwich community. Ogilvy was a member of the National Association of REALTORS®, Connecticut Association of REALTORS®, and Greenwich Association of REALTORS® beginning October 8, 1968. David served as the GAR President from 1981-1982. Ogilvy founded David Ogilvy & Associates on June 3, 1985, and later moved from his firm to Sotheby’s International Realty July 1, 2019. He was a leading force in Greenwich real estate for over 50 years. Ogilvy lived with his family in Greenwich since 1948. He had a great interest in the preservation of open space for future generations and was committed to maintaining the wonderful quality of life Greenwich affords its residents. David initiated and was the Chairman of the "100 Days to Save Treetops", the successful fundraising campaign to raise $11.5 million to save the former Holman estate development and protect 110 acres of environmentally fragile property on the Mianus River. He was on the Selectman's Advisory Committee and was instrumental in the acquisition of the Pomerance-Tuchman property in Cos Cob. He was also involved in the town's acquisition of the Laddins Rock Preserve in Old Greenwich. David has been cited with awards for his conservation work and was the first person to receive the Audubon's Lifetime Conservation Award and was recently honored as one of only two recipients ever to receive the Boys & Girls Club National Medallion award. David was devoted to Greenwich and the community and was selected as the Rotary Club Citizen of the Year in 2010 and exemplified the organization's motto of "Service Above Self" in his long list of volunteer efforts. He was on the board of the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich, a former President of the Greenwich Land Trust and an honorary member of the Board of Directors. David also previously served on the Board of the YMCA, the Mead Institute, and the Mead School. He was on the Advisory Board of the Teen Center, the Greenwich Point Conservancy, the Greenwich Tree Conservancy, and the Advisory Council of the Greenwich Historical Society. He was committed to the Greenwich Country Day School where he was a recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award, the United Way, Greenwich Hospital, supported the Junior League, and was actively involved in the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation. Ogilvy was awarded posthumously with the REALTOR® Hall of Fame induction by Awards Committee member, 2010 Hall of Fame Inductee, and GAR Past President (1987-1988, 1993) Tom Gorin, backed by the approval of the GAR Board of Directors. "There wasn't a charitable activity he missed ... He took the town and its history very very seriously", stated Gorin. Tom quoted from author and Realtor Bud Dealy, with a famous quote he made about David Ogilvy “In a pantheon of lustrous real estate Gods, David Ogilvy would Be Zeus.” The award and induction was announced to members at the GAR Annual Meeting on Friday, January 15th, which was hosted virtually for the first time ever in 97 years due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
Greenwich REALTORS® Give Back to the Community December 30th, 2020 (Greenwich, CT) – The Board of Directors for the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® and Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc. is proud to announce over $50,000 in year-end charitable donations to community organizations. “Due to the increased activity our local real estate market has seen this year, our Board felt strongly about making sure to provide assistance and recognition to those organizations across town who continue to make Greenwich a fantastic place to live and work,” explained 2020 GAR President, and Broker of New England Land Company, John McAtee. “We are thrilled to support and further the efforts of these local resources as they continue to respond to the unprecedented demands of the ongoing pandemic.” The funds have been distributed to eight local non-profits and services to provide additional support during this time of increased need due to COVID-19: Abilis, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides services and supports for over 700 individuals with special needs and their families from birth through the lifespan. Greenwich Emergency Medical Services (GEMS), a not-for-profit organization, is the sole provider of emergency services to the Town of Greenwich. Greenwich United Way has been a trusted partner of the Greenwich community, government and local organizations since 1933. The company has focused on community solutions in the areas of education, financial stability and health for over 85 years. Kids in Crisis provides emergency shelter, crisis counseling, and community education programs for children of all ages and families facing crisis. Crisis can include domestic violence, mental health concerns, homelessness, substance abuse, economic difficulties, and other critical challenges. The Kids In Crisis Helpline is staffed 24 hours a day with trained Crisis Counselors, and provides free, confidential phone and face-to-face intervention, counseling, and referrals. Neighbor to Neighbor improves the lives of residents in need throughout the Greenwich area and strengthens our community by creating access to food, clothing and basic living essentials in an atmosphere of kindness and respect. River House founded in 1977, remains committed to providing the highest quality care to aging adults in Greenwich, Stamford, and the surrounding areas while offering guidance and support to their caregivers. River House's mission is to provide adult day care that works for all families. Greenwich Silver Shield Association an organization of Professional Police Officers providing excellent police services to the citizens and business community of the Town of Greenwich, supporting programs that promote safety and better police/community relations. Transportation Association of Greenwich (TAG) a Greenwich non-profit serving Greenwich residents of all ages with safe, reliable, convenient and courteous transportation. In addition to the year-end contributions to local charities, members of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® and Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc. also participated in raising funds and awareness for various other initiatives throughout 2020. Those efforts included contributions to the Greenwich Community Projects Fund , which was responsible for bringing the holiday lights back to downtown Greenwich this season. GAR and GMLS members also hosted multiple virtual food drives to benefit Neighbor to Neighbor, as well as participated in the CT REALTORS® Foundation “Be Homeful for the Holidays” campaign in partnership with the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness , which has provided holiday cheer to more than 5,000 children living in CT shelters and has helped more than 1,000 families avoid the hardship of homelessness. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® (including the Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc.) and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. Headquartered in Greenwich, Connecticut, GAR and GMLS serve over 1200 members and subscribers combined.
GREENWICH ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® DELIVERS PADDINGTON™ GIFTS TO CHILDREN IN LOCAL SHELTERS The plush bears were “raised” to help local families remain in their homes. Approximately 3,000 people across CT are homeless on any given night and nearly 1 in 5 of those are children. Paddington bears were “raised” as part of the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness’s 5th annual be homeful for the holidays campaign. For every $25 donated, the CT REALTORS® Care Foundation sponsored the gift of a Paddington bear for a child spending the holidays in a shelter with all money raised going to the be homeful fund. The be homeful fund provides emergency assistance that frontline workers can access to help local families remain in their homes rather than enter the shelter system. More than 1,000 Connecticut children and their families have remained housed thanks to be homeful funds. This year, the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® delivered Paddington bears locally to Kids in Crisis and YMCA - Domestic Abuse Services.
CT REALTORS® FOUNDATION AWARDS $45,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS - 2020 RAYMOND F. GATES JR. MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS ANNOUNCED EAST HARTFORD, CT (July 2, 2020) The Connecticut REALTORS® Foundation announced their 2020 Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship winners. The Raymond F. Gates, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 1976 in memory of Raymond F. Gates, Jr. following his tragic death in an automobile accident. Mr. Gates was the Executive Vice President of the Connecticut REALTORS®. Over the past 44 years, children of REALTORS® have been awarded scholarships totaling more than $1,000,000. For the 2019-2020 academic year, the Connecticut REALTORS® Foundation received 121 eligible applications. This year, 45 outstanding children of CT REALTORS® were selected to receive a total of $45,000 in scholarships. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is proud to announce two local recipients were among the 45 selected: Emma Schaale currently attends the University of Rochester pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Digital Media Studies. After graduation, she hopes to work as a 3D Artist or Software Developer for video game/movie development. Emma has been awarded the Tom Hope Scholarship for Media Excellence and is a Rush Rhees Art Purchase Prize winner. Her extracurricular activities include Publicity Manager for UR’s Game Development Club and UR’s Photography Club. Emma is the daughter of Yuka Kominami, REALTOR®-Associate at Sotheby’s International Realty. Ekaterina Ulyanov is a 2020 graduate of The Academy of Information Technology and Engineering. She will attend Williams College in the fall majoring in Biology with a minor in Biophysics. With an impressive 4.94 GPA and scoring 35 out of 36 on her ACT, Ekaterina would ultimately like to enter the healthcare field either as a physician or as a science researcher. She has won multiple Science, Social Studies and World Language Department Awards in addition to being a National, Science National and Slavic National Honor Society member. Ekaterina is also on the Math Team (Captain), in the Medical Mentorship Club (Vice President) and participated in the Yale Discovery to Cure Internship Program as a lab research intern. She is the daughter of REALTOR®-Associate Tatiana Ulyanov with Coldwell Banker. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® congratulates all 45 scholarship recipients, and sends wishes for their continued success into the future. Contact: Stacey Loh, EVP | Greenwich Association of REALTORS® Phone: 203-869-0240 Email Address: [email protected]
January 17, 2020 (Greenwich, CT) – The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) Announced that Leonide “Lee” Prince of Berkshire Hathaway New England Properties is GAR’s REALTOR® of the Year for 2019. Lee has been a REALTOR® since 1982, and has been actively involved as a member of the Greenwich Association of Realtors Awards, Scholarship, and Grievance Committees since 2007. Her tenure included time with Prudential CT Realty, forerunner of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. During her time with Berkshire Hathaway, Lee has been named in both the President’s and Chairman’s Circles in the top Half of 1% of the Network. In addition to her professional commitments, Prince has contributed to the community at large as a Board member of the United Way of Greenwich, the Northeast Greenwich Association, and has served on the Board of Schools. She is a member of the Westchester Country Club, where she headed the Children’s Committee and the Children’s Tennis Committee, as well as served on the Beach, Entertainment and Tennis Committees. Greenwich has served as home to Lee and her family for over 40 years, including her four children who all attended Greenwich Schools growing up. The REALTOR® of the Year Award is the highest honor presented to a member and is based upon leadership and contributions made to the Greenwich Association of REALTORS®, Connecticut Association of REALTORS®, National Association of REALTORS®, and the Greenwich community. Prince was presented with the award by Eric Bjork, Head Broker for Berkshire Hathaway New England Properties, at the 96th Annual GAR Meeting. “Real estate and volunteerism seem to go hand in hand for some brokers. For Lee, it is just a part of who she is. She deserves this award and the recognition that comes with it. She is a true professional.” stated Bjork. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
January 17, 2020 (Greenwich, CT)– The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® (GAR) announced that Alice Duff, a sales broker with Sotheby’s International Realty, has been honored as the most recent member of the small group that comprises the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® Hall of Fame. The GAR Hall of Fame is the highest honor presented to a member for their lifetime service to the real estate industry and the Greenwich community. Duff has been a member of the National Association of Realtors, Connecticut Association of Realtors, and GAR since 1985. Alice served as a GAR Director from 2010-2012, and was named GAR’s REALTOR® of the Year in 2012. She has been Chair of the GAR Awards Committee since 2009, and has also actively been involved in the Grievance, Professional Standards, RPAC, Scholarship, and Local Issues Committees throughout her years as a member. Alice has lived with her family in Greenwich since 1969. During that time, she has contributed her time to numerous community and school organizations including the Board of Greenwich Hospital and the hospital’s community Advisory Board; Board member and secretary of the American Red Cross, Greenwich Chapter; Board of the Field Club, Community Answers, PTA at North Street and Greenwich Country Day School, and on the nominating committee for Greenwich Health. Duff is also an elected official on the RTM serving her district for the past 13+ years. Duff was surprised with the REALTOR® Hall of Fame induction by fellow Awards Committee member and 2015 Hall of Fame Inductee, Sally Parris, backed by the approval of the GAR Board of Directors. Duff’s colleagues credit her for always taking action on issues, being detailed in her pursuits of accuracy, and encouraging the act of making the right decisions for the benefit of all concerned. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and support services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
January 17th, 2020 (Greenwich, CT)– The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® “GAR” announced the 2020 Officers and Directors at their 96th Annual Membership meeting on Friday. This group also serves as the Board of Directors for the Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS®. John McAtee, Head Broker of New England Land Company, will be returning for a second 1 year term as President of GAR. McAtee has been a Realtor member since 1989, and has actively served on the Board of Directors since 2010. He has also been engaged with various GAR committees over the years including: Finance, MLS, and Risk Reduction. BK Bates, Agent of Houlihan Lawrence, will be serving as Vice President for 2020. Bates has been a Realtor member since 1976, and has actively served on the Board of Directors since 2015. She served as President of GAR/GMLS from 2017-2018, and has been engaged in the Grievance, MLS, and Professional Standards Committees throughout her time as a member. Bryan Tunney, Broker of Sotheby’s International Realty, will continue to serve as Treasurer for GAR and GMLS for 2020. Tunney has been a Realtor member since 2004, and has actively served on the Board of Directors since 2012. He has also been engaged with various GAR committees throughout his membership including Finance, Education, Social, RPAC and Legislative, Scholarship, and Local Issues. Carolyn Anderson, Head Broker of Anderson Associates, will serve as Secretary for 2020. Anderson has been a Realtor member since 1987, and has actively served on the GAR/GMLS Board since 1999. She was President in 2007, and has been engaged with the Awards, Education, Equal Opportunity Housing, Grievance, International and Professional Standards Committees over the years. Eric Bjork, Head Broker of Berkshire Hathaway New England Properties, begins a 3 year term in 2020. Bjork has been a Realtor member since 1998, and has served on the Board of Directors previously from 2009-2011, and from 2014-2017. He has been engaged with the Awards, Education, Finance, Grievance, Professional Standards, Scholarship, and Risk Reduction committees during his time as a GAR member. George Cain, Agent of Charles Paternina, is serving the final year of a 3 year term as a Director. George joined as a Realtor member in 2005, and has served on the Board of Directors since 2014. He is actively involved with the RPAC and Legislative, MLS, and Professional Standards committees. Cynthia De Riemer, Agent of Coldwell Banker, is serving the first year of her first 3 year term as a Director in 2020. De Riemer has been a Realtor member since 2007, and has been actively involved in the Greenwich community. Paul Pugliese, Head Broker of Greenwich Land Company, is serving his final year of a 3 year term in 2020. Paul has served on the Board of Directors since 2014, and first joined as a Realtor member in 1987. He has been involved with the Professional Standards, Scholarship, and Local Issues Committee. Maria Ruggeberg, Agent of William Raveis Real Estate, is serving the final year of a 3 year term in 2020. Maria has been a Realtor member since 1991, and has served on the Board of Directors since 2018. She has been actively engaged with the Awards, Finance, and International Committees of GAR and GMLS. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
January 18, 2019 (Greenwich, CT) — The Greenwich Association of REALTORS®(GAR) announced that BK (Marie) Bates of Houlihan Lawrence is GAR’s REALTOR® of the Year for 2018. BK served as President of the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® from 2017-2018 and has been a Director on the board since 2015. She has also been actively involved in the Professional Standards, MLS, and Grievance Committees since 1998. Bates is a strong contributor to the education and mentoring of real estate professionals in the Greenwich community. She serves as an incredible resource to her colleagues and the Greenwich community as a whole. Bate’s passion and willingness to contribute is contagious, and has inspired and encouraged many members to get involved. Bates has been a REALTOR® for over 40 years. Her tenure has included time with the former Brad Hvolbeck & Associates, Sally O’Brien & Associates, and Sotheby’s. Recognized as a strong leader within the Houlihan Lawrence office, she is eager to assist new agents with any questions they might have and to help with listing presentations. In addition to her professional commitments, Bates contributes to the community at large with service in several organizations including serving on the Greenwich Academy Alumni Board, running various committees at Greenwich Country Club and Belle Haven Club, where Bates became the first female fleet captain, and was instrumental in starting the women’s sailing program at Belle Haven. BK also ran the town wide Pet Show for over 25 years, following in her Grandmother’s footsteps. BK has three children and two grandchildren, who have or are going through the public and private schools in Greenwich. In her spare time, you can find BK playing bridge, or boating on Long Island Sound. The REALTOR® of the Year Award is the highest honor presented to a member and is based upon leadership and contributions made to the Greenwich Association of REALTORS®, the Connecticut Association of REALTORS®, National Association of REALTORS®, and the Greenwich community.Bates was presented with the award by David Haffenreffer, Head Broker for Houlihan Lawrence, at the 95th Annual GAR Meeting. “When I think of BK Bates, the words that come to mind are right out of our company core values: Integrity, Excellence, Passion, and Community. It’s been a gift to work alongside BK (and John, John, and Amanda) for the last 5+ years at Houlihan Lawrence. She’s helped us be a better brokerage, and is truly committed to our Association of REALTORS® as she wraps up a successful term as President,” stated Haffenreffer. The Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. Established in 1924, the association provides professional development and services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association has over 800 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT. View Photos from the 95th Annual GAR Meeting
