Vote for the USA500 'Hundie Awards' 2018 Nominate your fellow USA500 members! Cast your nominations for the third annual “Hundie Awards” to be given at the May 10th Night of 500 Stars! All nominations must be made by March 5, at which time they will compiled and go out to the membership for final votes. OK Question Title * 1. Rookie of the Year: A new member of USA500 Clubs who has gone above and beyond in distinguishing himself for herself in the Club, or in helping the organization be successful. Kristin Dzialo: "Whether helping to make connections between fellow members and her clients, volunteering for the member spotlight, pitching a Mastermind, frequent guesting, or participating in the Gala Planning Committee, Kristin has hit the ground running." Joan Harris: "I love being a resource for anyone who is struggling with issues around aging and can be a resource for USA 500 members, clients and anyone they know. I will get them connected with the right assistance." Reena Scott: "It isn’t always easy being the “newbie”, however, it has been such a pleasure being a part of the USA 500 family. I have had the opportunity of meeting and getting to know so many wonderful people who have been instrumental in connecting me with great resources. I look forward to future opportunities and long-lasting friendships." Kristin McFarland: "I have a genuine interest in connecting people and helping others grow their practice: I actively seek to make introductions, share resources, and really enjoy the opportunities when I’ve been able to help other members with something in their personal or professional life." Karen van Kooy; "I am coming up on my year anniversary (May), and have jumped in totally: I have taken advantage of my home group (Back Bay) by attending all meetings, all DTQs and by presenting a mastermind; I attend as many of the social events as possible, (Gala) (Tia’s) (the Giving Circle Mixer); I have guested (though not nearly as much as I plan on); and quite happily, became a member of the Giving Circle committee for this year’s campaign.' Mark Josephs: "I have tried to maximize the benefits I obtain from and give to USA500 by attending many meetings outside my home group and by networking with as many members as possible." Seth Jacobs: "Whether I am ROY, or just a solid rookie, I’ve truly enjoyed meeting professionals from all different walks of life, and helping all of our businesses prosper." Jack Finning; "I try to refer members to business opportunities and to great referral sources as often as possible.' OK Question Title * 2. Most Inspirational Member: A member who has persevered against personal challenges, or who makes a significant impact to his or her community in the member’s personal time. Amy Weil: "Nothing motivates me more than when I can make a positive impact by mentoring and helping kids of all ages." Lovern Gordon: "Promoting year-round awareness on the issue of domestic violence has been a volunteer passion of mine for many years, and will continue to speak up for those that suffer in silence." Laurin Johnson: "“Five years ago I suffered a severe traumatic brain injury, and while I am forever changed, I have not let it hold me back.” Vanda Khadem: For her amazing work placing people with autism in positions where they can earn. learn and flourish. Tom LaHaise: "Using the support, teamwork and knowledge of the members within our Special Needs based USA 500 chapter, I’ve been able to help my son and clients negotiate the world of special needs and disabilities in a way I didn’t know would be possible." OK Question Title * 3. Member with the Greatest Professional Achievement: Members who had an amazing year professionally, perhaps for completing a significant work project with a positive outcome or for having a meaningful impact on a client’s life or business. Stan Davis: "In addition to collaborating with other members to support their clients’ needs and objectives, Stan has counseled close to a dozen business owners to consider their overall business and organization strategies, also making himself available to advise scores of executives and professionals as they consider changes in their careers or the pursuit of their next positions." Michelle Peirce: "My partner, Bruce Singal, and I were named as two of Lawyers Weekly’s “Lawyers of the Year” for securing acquittals, after ten weeks of trial last year, of all 25 second degree murders against our client, Barry Cadden, arising out of the New England Compounding Center meningitis outbreak in 2012. (In the spirit of full disclosure, he was convicted of other counts and was sentenced to nine years instead of life.)" Matt Fogelman: "I successfully represented a medical marijuana patient and was able to persuade the Mass SJC to allow her to pursue her disability discrimination claims against her employer, which fired her after she failed a drug screen. I also won an important age discrimination trial before Christmas and received a $1.2 million verdict for a garage mechanic terminated after 27 years at the same facility, after new ownership came in." OK DONE