To All WCR Members,

I know many of you have heard of the injury I received on October 9, when I was hit by a car while riding my adult tricycle on the recreation trail. It has been a slow recovery since it was multiple fractures. I now have a 'hospital' room set up in our living room and am hoping to be weight bearing in another few weeks. Can't keep me down after that.

It has been my greatest dismay to miss going to our National Conference and attending the installation of Bobbi Nelson as National Women's Council of REALTORS® President. I also have missed being with so many of you attending the Installation of our very own 2012 Officers! Congratulations to all of you! My heartfelt thanks goes out to Lori and all the fine line officers who served with me this past year. You have all done well to step up and take the reins while I have been incapacitated. I shall hopefully be up and about by the start of the New Year and look forward to what is ahead for all of us. I so appreciate the many calls, cards, flowers and gifts that have been sent my way and I thank everyone for thinking of me. May your Holidays be bright and happy,

My best regards to All,
Judi Hartwell, President 

Well, here come the Holidays. This year has flown by and your Board wishes all of you a beautiful Holiday season.

Most of you know that our President, Judi Hartwell, suffered an unfortunate accident. She broke her femur and was hospitalized for several weeks. She is back home but unable to apply much, if any, weight on her leg. We send our well wishes for a speedy recovery.

Recently, I traveled to Anaheim for the National Women's Council of REALTORS® and National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) meeting with President Elect Molly McGee and our VP of Membership, Katie Linares. We had the honor of seeing a “local” from Santa Cruz; Bobbie Nelson, be installed as the 2012 National President of Women's Council of REALTORS®. It’s wonderful having someone from our “backyard” serving in such a prestigious position. She will serve the organization well.

One of the high points of our trip was the opening ceremony of NAR. It was fantastic to hear the NAR choir honor our Veterans in song. We certainly have reason to be grateful for their service.

Another item was the introductions of the REATOR® of the year. One person from each state and several territories was selected. It certainly seemed to me that a common characteristic of each person was their positive and upbeat attitude and their contributions to the community as well.

One of the best features of the program, though, was seeing the presentation of the “Good Neighbor Award.” The award was presented to five individuals for their contributions to their communities, local, state, national or world-wide. Two of the five recipients were from the greater Monterey Bay area; Wayne Shaffer from Santa Cruz and Marta Karpiel from right here in Carmel. Their contributions, charity, and great attitudes reflected complete selflessness. It was just awesome….and, you know, the event reflected how I hope we all approach the New Year , with a great attitude; and full of gratitude.

As we move forward. let’s be grateful for what we have and give to those who need our help.

I, and the other WCR leaders, look forward to serving you in 2012.

Blessings as you enjoy the Holidays.
Lori Jakubowski
2011 President Elect