The Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA) hosted its Installation and Awards Breakfast at the UNF University Center this morning. The event had a fantastic showing as hundreds of top leaders in the Northeast Florida building industry gathered to celebrate and welcome new leaders. The theme of the event was “We Are Family” and the focus was on the continued growth and expansion of the builder community in 2011.

Awards were presented to those who make a difference through their dedication, hard work and commitment to the industry. Here are some of the highlights:

• Daniel Blanchard of Blanchard Land Company was the recipient of the Good Government Award which is given each year to the NEFBA member who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to maintaining the integrity of good government in Northeast Florida
• The Fred King Associate Member of the Year award, which honors a member who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication to NEFBA and its members, was awarded to Patricia Kolosky of Kirk’s Framing
• Ken Kuester of Lumber Unlimited received the Arnold Tritt Achievement Award in recognition of his relentless drive, competitive edge and extensive volunteer service within the building industry
• Andy Chambers, president of MasterCraft Builder Group, was the recipient of the NEFBA Builder Member of the Year award for his outstanding involvement in the industry, commitment to the community and demonstrating a high caliber of business professionalism
• For displaying leadership in the builder community, the NEFBA Leadership award was presented to Doug Wenzel of Bonded Builders Warranty Group

Michael Bourré, 2011 NEFBA president

Along with the awards presentations, the breakfast featured the installation of the 2011 officers and board members for NEFBA and the NEFBA Sales and Marketing Council. Highlights included the installation of Michael Bourré, president of Bourré Construction Group as 2011 NEFBA president and Amber Williams of Ryland Homes as the 2011 president of the NEFBA Sales and Marketing Council.

Congratulations to the winners and the 2011 NEFBA Board Members! We look forward to an outstanding year!