Shown, from left to right, are Jamelie Kangles, daughter of George Kangles; Ismahen Kangles, widow of George Kangles; Lois Killebrew, award presenter, and 2012 award recipient; Randy Durham, award recipient for 2013; Mark Blazek, 2013 president of the Greater Chattanooga Association of Realtors.
A crowded room buzzed with activity and excitement as realtors from all across the greater Chattanooga area packed into the association's home on Amnicola Highway for its annual installation of its board of directors and leadership team. Capping off the night was the announcement by Lois Killebrew of the 2013 George Kangles Community Citizenship Award. Killebrew, the only past recipient of the award, addressed the audience. She sid “The standards that were set for this magnificent award to be presented were so great, that I felt extremely humbled that the board of directors conferred it on me. It is truly the thrill of a lifetime.”
The George Kangles Community Citizenship Award is presented to recipients who meet only the highest of standards within the Realtor organization. Recipients are those Members whose track record include proven community citizenship in the arena of government and political affairs, knowledge and political activism concerning those of GCAR members and the real estate industry, active support and investment into the Realtors Political Action Committee, active participation in Local and State Government on behalf of the realtor community and a positive demonstration of discernible impact on the governmental affairs activities of the association.
Ms. Killebrew continued, “It is with Great pride and pleasure that I present the 2013 George Kangles Community Service Award to Randy Durham.” With the crowd cheering and applauding with approval, an emotional Randy Durham addressed the room.
“I’m approaching my 20th year in real estate. Over the years I have won several award for various things. This award is the most important to me.” Mr. Durham concluded, “George Kangles was a friend, my mentor and a constant advocate for our industry. He made sure that we would always have a seat at the table. I will continue to do the same.”
Mr. Durham is a two-time past President of GCAR, former Realtor of the Year, divisional vice president of the Tennessee Association of Realtors, member of the State Board of Directors, secretary/treasurer of the Tennessee Association of Realtors, member of the exclusive President’s Circle in Governmental Affairs and an RPAC Trustee.