Four individuals were presented with awards during MHI’s 73rd Annual Meeting in Carlsbad, Calif. during the annual awards dinner which was sponsored by Style Crest, Inc.

Nathan Smith, partner at SSK Communities was presented with the MHI Chairman’s Award by Ken Cashin. In presenting the award, Cashin highlighted Smith’s contributions to the association, the National Communities Council and the MHI-PAC as well as his participation in the many state associations where his company has communities. He is the current chairman of the MHI Government Relations Committee and serves as vice chairman of the Democratic Party in Kentucky. He is providing leadership in his company and example to the industry as it continues to evolve and respond to the ever changing market place.

Brad Lovin, executive director of the NCMHA was presented with the State Association Executive of the Year award and was applauded for outstanding accomplishments in the face of reduced budgets and staff support. He led the efforts of improving the association’s and industry’s image through an association name change, and modernization of the association’s logo and Web site. As chief lobbyist for the association, he achieved outstanding successes during the legislative session by defeating several bills that would have had negative financial impacts on the industry and in implementing legislation that will have positive benefits for the industry in North Carolina. In addition, he was recognized for initiatives to increase sales for his members through a home display at the State fair and sales seminars conducted throughout the state.

Robert Tanger, president and chief operating officer of T.R. Arnold and Associates was presented with the Frank Walter Standards Award. The MHI Technical Activities Committee has annually recognized one individual for his or her untiring and unselfish dedication in advancing the professionalism of the federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards. Tanger was recognized for over 37 years of work in the industry as an engineer in the areas of production, plan review, code compliance and quality control. He has served on many national committees involved with building codes, standards and regulatory programs and has been an active participant on the MHI Technical Activities Committee.

Ross Kinzler, executive director of the Wisconsin Housing Alliance was presented with the Jim Moore Excellence in Communications award by the Manufactured Housing Executives Council. Ross received the award in recognition of a webinar produced by the Wisconsin Housing Alliance and shared with other state associations to educate the industry about the $8,000 First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit, enhance understanding about the program’s requirements and increase its use throughout the industry.