The 2012 Florida Communities of Excellence Awards is now accepting nominations.

The awards are open to all Florida Community Associations (Condominium, HOA, and Cooperative).There are no entry fees and small and large communities are judged separately. Communities can compete in one or more of the following categories:

1.    "The Comeback Kid"

2.    Best Web Site & Internet Communications

3.    Trendsetter Awards

4.    Safety & Security Initiatives

5.    Disaster Preparedness Initiatives

6.    Civic Volunteerism & Advocacy

7.    Family Friendly Programs & Initiatives

8.    Financial Innovation

9.    Florida-Friendly Landscaping™

10. Energy & Water Conservation (Non-Landscaping)

All entries must be submitted by Midnight (Eastern) on January 15, 2012.

Award winners may not re-enter in the same category in consecutive years, but are eligible to enter in any other category. Finalists are announced in March.

The independent professionals that conduct the judging include executives in regional and state government departments and agencies, at non-profit organizations, and at trade and professional associations. For a complete list of the judges go to http://www.communitiesofexcellence.net/judges.html

Winners and finalists will be honored at the Florida Communities of Excellence Conference & Awards Ceremony, Friday, March 30, 2012, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Conference in Hollywood, Florida. The event, which includes educational sessions, lunch, and a catered reception, is free for board members, managers, and residents.

At the annual event, two awards are given in each category. Winners are chosen for smaller communities (fewer than 400 units) and larger communities.

Additionally, two "Community of the Year" Awards will be presented - one condominium and one HOA. These Awards will recognize communities who achieve exceptionally high scores in multiple category submissions.

Thank you for your participation in the 2012 Florida Communities of Excellence Awards. Good luck and May the Best Communities Win!

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