Holiday Luncheon Celebrates Spirit of Giving By Honoring Those who Gave to our City and Association

Founded after 9/11 to say thank you to the first responders who did so much for our City that tragic day and in its aftermath, this foundation supports those who are always first to aid the public in times of crisis, often when their own homes and families are fighting the same dangers. This was never more true than during Superstorm Sandy, and the BOMA/NY award, which includes a donation of $2,500, recognizes the sacrifices made during that time. Our donation says "thank you" to the foundation for supporting these incredibly dedicated individuals.

The BOMA/NY Partner in Progress Awards

Presented by Louis J. Mantia, BOMA/NY President

Lou created this award to "recognize public and private groups that have worked with BOMA/NY and demonstrated outstanding professionalism, a spirit of cooperation and collaboration, and dedication as a partner with BOMA/NY in creating standards of excellence to enhance the further progress of our great city."

Stating that he hopes the award will become an annual tradition, Lou presented awards to "three deserving commissioners:"

Commissioner Cassano – Fire Department of New York

Among his many cooperative acts with BOMA/NY, the commissioner was cited for including more than a dozen BOMA/NY professionals in the development of the 2008 and 2011 Fire Codes so that the practical application of FDNY goals could be realized, and for his generosity in allowing FDNY professionals to lend their expertise to almost a dozen BOMA/NY seminars, and to participate on the Preparedness Committee.

Commissioner LiMandri – Department of Buildings

The commissioner was cited for his groundbreaking work in modernizing the Building Code, for including BOMA/NY members and staff in its development, as well as working together on the Greener, Greater Buildings and Clean Heat programs. He was also applauded for resiliency initiatives, and in particular, the way BOMA/NY and DOB worked side by side during Superstorm Sandy, helping us clear hurdles to bring buildings back on line.

Commissioner Bruno, Office of Emergency Management

Commissioner Bruno was also cited for his generosity in allowing staff members to lend their insight to BOMA/NY committees and seminar panels; for continuing BOMA/NY’s role at the OEM Emergency Response Center and its close cooperation with BOMA/NY during major emergency events, most recently, Superstorm Sandy; for being a true partner to BOMA/NY through Partners in Preparedness, Ready New York, and for sharing information regarding emergency events.

The President's Awards

Presented by Louis J. Mantia, BOMA/NY President

Continuing a tradition begun several years ago, Lou also honored individuals who had made a measurable impact on his role as BOMA/NY President. The award salutes their unwavering commitment to outstanding personal performance to BOMA/NY and was bestowed upon:

John Santora, Cushman & Wakefield, Inc.

Frank Freda, Cushman & Wakefield, Inc.

Ronald S. Zeccardi, The Moinian Group

Louis J. Trimboli, RPA/FMA/LEED AP, CBRE

Angelo J. Grima, Schneider and Schneider

Lou concluded by handing over the reins of power—the gavel of the office of President of BOMA/NY—to incoming president Thomas L. Hill, RPA. "I have known Tom for a quite a while," Lou said, "and I have no doubt that his leadership, sense of ownership and management skills will enable BOMA/NY to rise even higher during his administration. Tom," he continued, "we are all—your officers, directors and past presidents—committed to you, our members and our industry."

Tom then sketched out his goals for his presidency—from auditing committee functions to bringing in new members—(see profile "A United Message" in this issue). He also presented Lou with the crystal eagle and presidential pin given to all outgoing BOMA/NY presidents, and welcomed his new officers:

Vice President: James R. Kleeman, RPA, Deputy Director of Redevelopment for the World Trade Center/Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

Treasurer: Ronald S. Zeccardi, Vice President for Property Management for The Moinian Group

Secretary: Hani J. Salama, PE, LEED AP, Senior Vice President of Property Management and Operations at Monday Properties

Special thanks to John Mini Distinctive Landscapes for the generous donation of the Christmas tree and table poinsettias.