Racine Kenosha Builders Association honored members for outstanding services to the association and the community and appointed its 2008 Board of Directors. Legacy Development was named Builder of the Year and Karlsen Plumbing was chosen as Associate of the Year. Both Racine-based businesses have long-standing traditions of community service.

Legacy Development head John Helding has served on the Caledonia Plan Commission for over ten years in addition to his involvement in other associations throughout the state. Fellow members commended Legacy’s focus on creating environmentally friendly neighborhoods, including the first conservation development in Racine County.

Karlsen Plumbing has been an active member of the RKBA for many years and has taken a lead in many community service projects, donating time and materials for those in need. Karlsen was a key donor in the RKBA’s 2007 Extreme Makeover at a local shelter.

To celebrate its 50th Anniversary in 2008, the RKBA created scholarships named in honor of three lifetime members. These scholarships will be awarded to local high school seniors who are planning to pursue a field of study related to the building trades. These scholarships are granted in honor of Darrey Construction [John Darrey], Perma Structo, Inc., [in Memory of Erwin “Buck” Sweet] and Big Buck [Darrell Graf]. These members all were instrumental in the founding and the preservation of the Racine Kenosha Builders Association and are recognized for their dedication to excellence in business and their commitment to the community.

The RKBA also announced the 2008 Board of Directors. John Jerde of Jerde Builders and Designs was installed as the 2008 President. Kellie Zierk of Carpetland USA and Flooring, 1st Vice-President; Dave Bennett of Southport Heating and Cooling, as 2nd Vice President; Patti Beaudin of Perma Structo Inc., Treasurer; Kurt Kamm of Newport as Secretary. Darryl Spang of American TV and Appliances will serve as out-going President; John Darrey of Darrey Construction as Builder Director; and Sheree Hagen of Knight Barry Title, Kenosha, as Associate Director.