NewswireToday - /newswire/ - West Palm Beach, FL, United States, 06/19/2009 - The Florida Speakers Association, the south Florida chapter of the National Speakers Association, held its annual awards recognition ceremonies during its regular chapter meeting on June 13.

Every year major contributors to achieving the mission of the Florida Speakers Association are recognized for their outstanding work. This year was no exception as members and guests gathered for a chapter program on Saturday, June 13, 2009, at the Westin Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The members of the board of directors are critical to delivering value to chapter members. The board members honored for their effort over this past year were: Gary Roberts, Helen Turnbull, Debbie Benami-Rahm, JB Glossinger, Karla Scott, Mace Horoff, Ken Okel, Gaby Cora, Rick Goodman and Rebecca Staton-Reinstein.

Special recognition was also given to non-board members who made unique contributions to chapter business and programs. The people receiving that recognition were Gayle Carson, Carolyn Stein and Jenae Rubin.

The Executive Director for the Florida Speakers Association was also singled-out for special recognition. George Chismark was lauded for his "whatever it takes" attitude and long term contributions to the business of running the chapter.

The chapter was founded thirty years ago and one of the founding members was recognized for her leadership and guidance over the ensuing years. Conni Gordon received this year's Legacy Award. It is an award given in honor of chapter founders and those who have passed on. Conni was particularly deserving of this award this year because of her generous financial contribution to the chapter through her Conni Gordon Arts Foundation, Inc.

Another major award each year goes to the person who best exemplifies a "stand out" level of dedication, service and passion for the Florida and National Speakers Associations. The honor of 2009 Member of the Year went to Debbie Benami-Rahm, Vice President of Membership, for the chapter. Debbie demonstrated uncommon leadership in fighting through the economic challenges of these times to keep her business progressing while also meeting multiple requests to lead major projects for the benefit of chapter members.

Gary Greenfield, 2008-2009 President of the Florida Speakers Association, was honored to have the privilege of bestowing this recognition for the outstanding contributions of each honoree.

Agency / Source: Florida Speakers Association

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