Thank you!  That's really it in a nutshell.

Commonground was presented with the most prestigious award in the social media industry tonight (...as I post this, I suppose it was really last night).  We are collectively bursting with pride.  We have received a Forrester Groundswell Award in the Business-to-Business Supporting category.  The honor recognizes the advances we have made in providing support for you and all of our 5,000 plus members here inside this community.

(Update 10:45 am Wednesday:  Just uploaded a short video of our award being announced in Chicago.  Blurry picture, fuzzy sound, but I love it! Play close attention -and you won't miss it.)

With less than 18 months under our belt as a live online community, we are humbled, tickled and so very grateful to all of you who have, quite literally, have helped us build commonground into what it is today.  If you'd like, you can read more about the award.

Thank you for logging on, spending time, asking questions, responding with answers, opinions - and contrary opinions.  A special thank you to our prolific posters and bloggers who frequently get the place fired up.

We were recognized for the support we provide you but I think one of the most stunning attributes of commonground is the support our members provide one another - many of you have experienced that first-hand.

We got here talking about mystery photos of water pipes, volcanoes, RECs, the downfall of AIG, the rise in distressed assets, pricing pressure, and - yes- even where to find a great tasting sandwich.  All that -- and much more.  For the environmental professionals who work in the commercial real estate industry we'd like to think we have broken new ground as a way for everyone to grow existing businesses and build new opportunities through this medium - this "social networking" for which several of you are still shifting around in your seats trying to find your comfort level.   So again, thank you. 

This is just the beginning. This is only the start of great things for all who participate in our community.  Congratulations to all of you for taking the time to become a part of us and for being the "pioneers' who forge the new path for the many thousands who will soon make their way here.  

Take a bow because this award is yours.

I look forward to seeing you back here soon.

Barbara