In this episode of Community Matters, host Michael Shaw and guest Holly Stimmel, CMCA, chair of CAI Keystone's Gold Star Committee, discuss the Gold Star Community Recognition Program. They explain the program's purpose, the application and review process, common pitfalls (like outdated reserve studies and missing documents), and tips for boards and managers to prepare a strong submission. Holly…
Manager of Member Development, Amanda Henderson, hosts this episode and sits down with two managers, a homeowner, and a business partner member from CAI's Keystone Chapter to explore what membership really offers — from education and designations to networking, events, and unexpected perks like friendships and long lasting business relationships. The episode highlights practical tips for getting…
Welcome to the 100th episode of Community Matters podcast! This podcast covers issues important to managing and governing condos, cooperatives and homeowner associations. We have a special topic today to mark the occasion of our 100th episode. In 2025, Keystone Chapter Community Associations Institute celebrates quite a milestone – its our 50th anniversary and we have some great things in store…
Have you ever had a buyer fall in love with a home only to get spooked by the words “HOA,” “condo,” or “association fees”? In this episode, “What Every Realtor Needs to Know About Community Associations (But Is Afraid to Ask),” we’re pulling back the curtain on how associations really work, what they are, how they’re governed, discussing resale documents and disclosures, and how Realtors and…
Have you ever wondered what a financial audit really is and why your condo, co-op, or community association might need one? In this episode, “Numbers That Matter: Demystifying Association Audits,” we’re cutting through the jargon and talking about audits in plain English—what they are, why they matter, and what to expect. Our guest for this episode is Mohammed Salyani, CPA. A shareholder at…
In his final episode as host, outgoing Chapter Executive Director Tony Campisi speaks with three past Keystone Chapter presidents—Bob Travis, Cathy Dunn, and Jon Katz—about the chapter’s history, key milestones, and future challenges. The conversation covers financial growth, membership and engagement, the impact of COVID, technology and virtual meetings, legislative advocacy, emerging trends…
In this episode of Community Matters, host Tony Campisi sits down with Michelle Baldry, Vice President of Sales with Reserve Advisors and immediate past president of the Foundation for Community Association Research (FCAR). Together, they delve into the pivotal role FCAR plays in supporting community associations through data-driven insights and research. Established in 1975, FCAR provides…
Welcome to another episode of the Community Matters Podcast, hosted by Tony Campisi, CAE, Executive Director of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute. This episode delves into the critical nuances of managing and governing community associations with a focus on landscaping and grounds maintenance—one of the largest budget items for many associations. Featuring Melissa Blake from…
Join host Tony Campisi and guest, Ben Rosenzweig, PE, President of CoolSys Energy Design, as they explore electrification and microgrid technology in community associations. Discover how these innovations drive energy efficiency and cost savings, while contributing to sustainability and reduced emissions. Learn practical steps and benefits of transitioning to electric systems and maximizing the…
Join host Tony Campisi and guest Brian Weaver, PCAM, with Association Reserves, as they delve into the essential aspects of reserve studies for community associations in this episode of Community Matters. Discover critical insights into the importance of funding reserves, how inflation influences financial planning, and the impact of new legislation on reserve studies. Learn about common…