In late January, 2006, Bill Stanage of Wealth Management Group, and Sandy Rea, publisher of The Observer, met for the first time in the lobby at Straight Chiropractic in Rio Rancho. The pair soon discovered a common interest in business, and then a common goal: development of a business organization dedicated to the success of its members.
Within weeks, the inaugural meeting was held at Chamisa Hills Country Club, hosted by Bill Stanage, and attended by eight potential members. This meeting was the foundation of the organization now known as the Executive Association of Greater Rio Rancho (EAGRR).
The founding members established a meeting format, time and organizational structure. Meetings are held Friday mornings at 7 a.m. to conclude by 8 a.m. In the earliest days, prior to incorporation, members Bill Stanage, Sandy Rea and Karen Delle Site shared the cost of meetings, rotating responsibility for the organization’s weekly tab until the dues structure was established and dues collected.
The first Board was installed in June 2009. The initial officers were Sandy Rea, president for one term, Wayne Story, vice president, Karen Delle Site, treasurer, and Kim Smith, secretary. Founding members Mike Deveraux and Brad Fackrell served as Board members.
EAGRR is an exclusive, non-profit businessperson’s organization. EAGRR members are sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations and associations of good character and outstanding professional business reputation. The Association’s primary purpose is to support and enhance business activities through the exchange of information for the purpose of promoting business among its members.
Each member represents a different business, trade, occupation or profession, and each is a responsible, successful business and professional leader in their field and community. EAGRR members are expected to keep their fellow members informed of conditions and information that may present challenges and opportunities to our business operations. The practice of reciprocity among members is of prime importance to ensure that the volume of business conducted among EAGRR member firms is of significant benefit to all members.
Members are expected to attend our weekly business meeting, share knowledge and expertise with other members, and to generally help members to stay informed about our communities. Each meeting provides access to business networking opportunities with other members, and exclusive category membership affords access to other members at any time to seek advice, discuss an idea, resolve an obstacle or offer your services. In addition to weekly meetings, membership in EAGRR offers multiple social activities, allowing members additional opportunities to network and interact.