On Wednesday, May 7, Traton Homes hosted our 2014 company meeting. This annual event serves as a great opportunity for employees to come together to learn about the company’s goals and plans and reflect on recent accomplishments. It is also a special time for recognizing and celebrating the achievements of our fantastic team of employees!

Numerous awards were given out at the celebration, including the poignant Saundra Bagwell Dunning Award. This special award was introduced in 2002 in memory of Saundra Dunning, a dear friend and family member at Traton Homes who lost her battle with cancer in 2001. Saundra was a true inspiration to all who knew her and was always admired for her strength, courage and positive attitude. Every year, employees are invited to nominate a peer who they feel has made a positive difference at the company during the previous year.

This year’s recipient of the Saundra Bagwell Dunning award is Patrick Martin, a 10 year Traton employee. Patrick started his career with our company as a Warranty Manager, eventually working his way up to Assistant Builder and then to Builder. Patrick also played a lead role in managing Traton’s Project Playhouse project in 2009 that benefitted HomeAid Atlanta, and also won an OBIE award for Best Community Service Project. Patrick has been responsible for several of Traton’s high-end developments including Leisure Ridge and Ridgeview Falls, and is also building for Traton’s new custom homes company, Nellie Poston Custom Homes. Patrick’s positive attitude and outstanding commendations from his customers and his peers make him the ideal recipient of this award.

“I feel so honored to have been nominated by my fellow employees to receive this very special award,” says Patrick.   “I began my construction career here at Traton and there are so many people at this company that have had a hand in my development.  I owe them so much gratitude for helping me grow as a builder and become what I am today.”

There has not been a shortage of professionals for Patrick to look up to, many of whom have been dedicated members of the Traton Homes team for years. Tenure awards were given out for 10, 20, and 30 years of service at the meeting. Twelve 10-year tenure awards were presented to: Shannon Bechtold, Jonathan Bunn, Chris Devotie, Michael French, Jo Ann Gable, Greg Halik, Misti King, Brian Knisley, Patrick Martin, Ed Olwine, Richard Remillard and Rob Rousselot.

Kelley Weiner was recognized for 20 years of service, while Marian Jones received a 30-year tenure award.  The longevity of these employees is a testament to the quality of work life and dedication of the Traton Homes team.

Last but not least, we recognized our 2012 OBIE award-winning New Homes Specialist, Ed Olwine, with a special Frabel “Flame of Excellence” glass sculpture for his record-breaking year. Ed’s sales totaled a whopping $16 million for 2013!

We are so proud of the Traton Homes team for its outstanding service and accomplishments! Congratulations, again!