Press Releases: 2009

Community Leaders Honored with Industry Awards

ABoR announces the winners of the 2009 Industry Awards

October 28, 2009 - The Austin Board of REALTORS® (ABoR) is pleased to announce this year’s Industry Award winners, for the following categories: REALTOR® of the Year, Community Service and Rookie of the Year. The awards recognize individuals for their extraordinary contributions to the real estate industry and local communities. 

		REALTOR® of the Year Charles R. Porter, Jr. of Bryker Properties Charles Porter has been a member of ABoR for more than ten years and served as Chairman of the Board in 2007. He is recognized by his colleagues for his dedication and commitment to the real estate industry. Also acknowledged for his passion for education, Porter teaches legal and ethics course at ABoR. In addition, Porter teaches as an adjunct professor at St. Edward’s University and was a recipient of the university’s prestigious Presidential Award in 2008.
		Community Service Debbie Novelli Farrell of Diane Dopson Properties Debbie Novelli Farrell has made giving back to her community part of her life. She is recognized for her outstanding leadership and commitment to helping others. Novelli Farrell devotes her time and support to organizations like the Women’s Symphony League of Austin, Helping Hand Home for Children, the National Charity League, Mobile Loaves and Fishes, Caritas, the Ronald McDonald House and many others.
		Rookie of the Year Anna Maria Garcia of Aralyn & Company, Art of R.E. Anna Garcia’s career as a REALTOR® has only just begun. Her energy, intelligence and charm have helped lead her down the path of success, resulting in closing more than $950,000 in sales. Garcia is dedicated to becoming a well-rounded agent through enhancing her knowledge in real estate and exemplifying great customer service. Garcia has also received a GRI designation.

ABoR invites you to join us in honoring these wonderful individuals and their contributions to our community at our annual Installation and Awards Gala on Friday, December 11 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Austin Renaissance Hotel, located at 9721 Arboretum Boulevard. Tickets cost $40 each and can be purchased online or by phone at 512-454-7636, ext. 1603.

For more information regarding the industry awards and installation gala, contact Hessie Brawley at

512-454-7636, ext. 1603.

The Austin Board of REALTORS® is a non-profit, voluntary organization representing more than 8,000 licensed REALTORS® in Central Texas.  For further information, please contact Angela Brutsché at 512-454-7636, ext. 1300.