This year, BOMA Oakland/East Bay has run an “Amazing Race”! At the end of the race, we will not receive $1 million dollars; rather, at the end we will finish with many accomplishments. We will have gained new members, retained members, hosted high-quality networking events and organized educational seminars.

The second lap of the race began in June and started at the BOMA International Convention in Long Beach, California. Our local team networked, attended workshops and meetings, and enjoyed vendor parties (ABM, ABLE, Cagwin & Dorward, Harbro, Securitas, Universal Protection Services) just to name a few.

At the convention I attended Business Association Executive (BAE) sessions, where colleagues and I discussed methods of growing membership participation, methods of increasing sponsorship opportunities and teaming up with other local professional organizations so as to continue growth with diminished resources. With the group, I shared how BOMA Oakland/East Bay continues to be at the forefront in technology. Other chapters are following in our footsteps and are now going electronic via web sites and social media. BOMA Oakland/East Bay will strive to always be a leader in communication and will continually find ways to enhance and refine ways we communicate with each of you.

An economic impact study entitled “ The Contribution of Office Building Operating Outlays on the U.S. and States Economies in 2009” was discussed at the BAE sessions. We talked in detail about the impact that commercial office space has on the national and local economies. (The full study may be found here)

BOMA Oakland/East Bay always comes back from the convention with fresh ideas and re- energized. Now, we enter the final lap of the race: the “FUN” times! At the A’s game in July, members and guests mixed and established new relationships. At the tradeshow in August, over 45 member companies participated by displaying their products and/or services and over 350 members enjoyed a good time. As always, I appreciate everyone’s participation...It takes all of you to create our success!

The last lap also includes our annual Texas Hold ‘Em event on September 15, our (3rd annual) Walter Finch Golf Tournament on October 18, and our Holiday Luncheon on December 9.

As always, please let us know how we can help you during this tough time. USE BOMA as a resource and as a member of your marketing team. Enjoy the last days of summer and see you in the Fall!

Robert Robledo
Executive Vice President