The Welcome to Chicago Knakal Knetworking Event
People from three continenants were there. Some of the places where they came from where:
Switzerland, The Middle East, Arizona, Puerto Rico, New York; just to name a few.
The Giveaway
In the lead-up, we ran a contest offering complimentary tickets sponsored by Daniel Halperin and Chicago Title Insurance Company. Winners received entry to the event along with a copy of Selling Buildings by Bob Knakal and Rod Santomassimo. Congratulations again to our winners—it was great to see you in the room; sorry to the ones that couldn’t make it.
The Event
The Welcome to Chicago Knakal Knetworking Event, held in conjunction with the CCIM Illinois Chapter, was a huge success. The energy in the room spoke for itself—leaders, investors, and dealmakers came together to connect, exchange ideas, and spark opportunities.
This wasn’t just networking. It was the foundation of new partnerships, strategies, and deals.
Highlights & Recognition
Hosts & Guests
- Host: Bob Knakal
- Special Guest: Rod Santomassimo
Sponsors
Thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible:
- Daniel Halperin – Chicago Title
- Jeff Weinberg – Drexel Properties LLC
- Cole Newman – Newbanks, Inc.
- Gene Griffin – EUGENE L. GRIFFIN & ASSOCIATES, LTD
- Brian Spangler – Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP
- Paul A. Youkhana – Law Offices of PAY
- Joe Munch – Revive Insurance Group
- Salvador Martinez – Phes Services
Photography
- Yordan Zlatkov of Top Estates Media captured the event perfectly. (He also produces exceptional property photography for those who need it.)
CCIM-IL Team & Board
- Chirayu Patel – Leadership
- Zane Peterson, CCIM – Support
- Kay Gonzalez & Cynthia Hayes – Administration
The Pictures
Below are just a handful of photos capturing the energy of the evening.
Pictures are below. Just scroll down and right-click open in new tab to make it bigger.
It’s been my honor to co-host this event. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and contributed to making it a success. I’m looking forward to working with so many new friends and continuing to build momentum in the CRE community.
