I had the opportunity to attend the 64th National Convention of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers from August 4-10th, 2011 in New Orleans, LA. It was wonderful seeing the inter-workings of the political machine that drives such a huge organization.
I saw the election of officers, the installation of the new President and other board members, and was thrilled that our own Gayle Randolph was installed for the 2nd time as the National Treasurer.
As a volunteer who worked in registration (650 attendees) I was able to meet people in our profession from all over the United States who came together for a common purpose; to help homeowners find solutions to the problems they are facing in today's market.
Red Beans and Rice, Shrimp, Crab Cakes, Crayfish and Rum Punch was my staples. I danced, laughed, and worked like a mad person, but never forgot where I was; New Orleans - the city that was almost destroyed by rain, water and wind. I was still able to visit the Garden District, ride the trolley and see the street vendors do their "freeze poses" and of course the marvelous bands that played on the side streets for tips. I got chills when I rode past Dillard and Southern University (historical black colleges) because I know that the lack of money makes it even harder to keep their doors open. I salute the founders of those universities because in the early 1930's they had a vision that African Americans could, should and will get a college education.
I did not turn my eyes from the devastation that still haunts the 9th Ward and surrounding areas.
I did not turn my eyes from the amusement park where the roller coaster car still sits atop the skeleton that was once the tracks that carried people laughing and having fun.
I did not turn my eyes from the homeless, and hungry residents who still have no place to live, who begged for money, but offered you a "good day" even if you gave nothing. I wondered where the children were who allowed their mother to wear filthy clothing and make her bed on the hard concrete where pigeons nested, and dogs took their daily relief; surely they would eventually come to her aid- I hoped.
Each night as I savored the rich chocolates left by the chamber maid, upon my fluffy white satin stripped pillows, I thought about how fortunate I was to be in an air conditioned, magnolia fragrant room, with french pattern drapes that hung crisp and perfect to the windows in the five (5) star hotel.
I have visited New Orleans several times, but this time it was different. This time I felt the need to help; so in my own way I did. I decided to generously tip the busboy, the doorman, the waitress, the old guy on the corner painted in white that stood motionlessly atop a beat up box for hours for just a few coins. Instead of a dollar I gave $10 OR $20 tips and was delighted to see the surprise on their faces when they peaked at their bounty when they thought I was not looking.
I was generous to the point where upon my return to Phoenix I had to scrape coins from my console to pay for the concrete I rented for seven (7) days at the parking facility just so they would release my car that was held hostage. As I counted out, fifty nine dollars, two dimes and five pennies, I thought how that money could have fed the disabled veteran who sat on his empty pant legs while offering passerbys twisted pieces of ribbons that resembled the colors and shape of the American Flag in exchange for a quarter.
Sometimes it takes visiting a place like New Orleans or even the lower income areas of our own communities to realize that we (professionals) are only one paycheck away from poverty and homelessness. I am humbled by the experience and happy to know that the National Association of Real Estate Brokers, my fellow REALTIST and REALTORS are here to help those who have been harmed by the housing bust. I am proud to be a part of them and our local chapter, the Arizona Association of Real Estate Brokers.
My hats off to them - what an organization!
Just as drops of rain accumulated to caused devastation in New Orleans, we collectively can be a solution to homelessness and poverty by volunteering and giving to those who need it more than we do. For information regarding the Arizona Association of Real Estate Brokers, and the National Association of Real Estate Brokers go to www.nareb.com and www.aareb.org
Cynthia Smitherman, DB, GRI, ABR, 1st Vice President of the Arizona of Real Estate Brokers
Emage` Fine Properties, LLC
602 697-4487
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