UPWARD MOBILITY

Changes for www.MHISC.com

2012-01-17T09:03:00.000-08:00

MHISC is re-doing our website, www.MHISC.com. We're giving it a fresh look and making it easier to find things. Pages for the media and government officials are being beefed up, as well as the popular Member Library section. We are also adding new pages including one to list communities signing up for MHISC’s Quality Manufactured Home Community™ designation.

Manufactured Housing Industry’s Take on Zoning

2012-01-09T19:34:00.000-08:00

Beginning in 2007, South Carolina began reversing a thirty year trend of zoning out
manufactured homes. More areas of South Carolina are now including manufactured
homes by using design and compatibly standards.

Manufactured Housing: A product of the American competitive market system

• The efficiency of factory production is our economic system’s response to the critical
need for affordable housing.
• Consumers determine the type of housing which represents the best value for their
housing dollars. Home ownership is good for everybody. It gives families ties to the
community, kids do better in school and home owners take pride in where they live
• Dramatic changes in modern-day manufactured homes make it much easier to treat
home buyers fairly in the zoning process.

First MHISC Pub Crawl Booked

2012-01-07T10:50:00.001-08:00

Planning for our MHISC Convention /Spring Meeting is coming along nicely

Here's what's in the works:

http://mhiscevents.blogspot.com/2012/01/mhiscs-next-statewide-meeting-set-for.html

2012 Members-only Password Sent to Members

2012-01-05T16:54:00.000-08:00

MHISC has distributed a new User Name and Password for members to gain access to the Members Only Library on www.MHISC.com.

The new password went out to all members who have renewed their membership for 2012 and to all manufacturers participating in MHISC.

Members can contact Info@mhisc.com to get the password. That is, if they've paid their dues for '12

The association changes the password for each new year. The Members Only Library includes the MHISC Membership Directory and all the facts and forms companies need to do business in South Carolina.

Goofy Footnote
OK, I take full responsibility for this because I can't think of anybody else to blame:

MHISC had to issue a second User Name and Password on January 9. That’s because the original words proved to be difficult to remember and not very user-friendly. Both codes consisted of two words. The combination of upper and lower case and confusion about whether to type in a space between the words resulted in a high failure rate for members trying to access the Members-Only Library. Let's put it this way, I wasn't able to get in there about half the time!

The new User Name and Password consist of one word each and are easy to remember.

Spring Meeting

2011-12-20T20:28:00.000-08:00

We're having fun planning MHISC's Spring Meeting April 18 - 19 in Columbia. Wednesday night there's a Pub Crawl through the Vista, the cool part of Columbia's downtown. Next morning, the Industry Breakfast followed by our Annual Meeting and Industry Golf Tournament.

New Leaders for Grand Strand Chapter

2011-09-21T18:58:00.000-07:00

The Grand Strand Chapter elected some excellent leaders last night. Joe Esposito will serve as President, Bill King as VP and John Howard, Jr., as Secretary-Treasurer.

They have a great mix of experience in the industry. Joe is region manager for Jensen's Communities a major national company offering first-class properties for 55+ residents.

Bill King is GM for Clayton Homes' Conway display center. John Howard runs Howard Homes in Georgetown. Together they bring the perspectives of the state's largest retail chain and a second-generation independent dealer.

It's also helpful to have a chapter officer from both of the two counties, Horry and Georgetown, that make up the Grand Stand Chapter.

Grand Strand is the newest of MHISC's six chapters.

Governor Haley

2011-09-20T19:03:00.000-07:00

MHISC met with the Governor's Chief of Staff. Number #1 Topic: Preserving out Sales Formula.....

Allen and I showed up this morning with the exact same color shirt; same thing happened last week. I think we've been working together too long.......

Where Do Your Advertising Dollars Really Go?

2011-08-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

A question for manufacturers, suppliers and professional service providers
When you advertise to promote your business to other companies in the MH industry, where do those dollars ultimately go?

If you advertise through your state association, your money goes directly back to fund the association's Statehouse lobbying efforts, keeping state agency regulations reasonable, fighting restrictive zoning, and keeping you informed.

When you advertise in MHISC's Update magazine or MODern Times newsletter......or

When you place an add on www.MHISC.com or SCmodularhome.com.....or

When you buy space in UpdatE, our electronic newsletter, or ManuFax, which hits every location by fax.....

.....You're fighting the bad laws, dumb regulations and zoning restrictions that would take money right out of your pocket.

Nobody would suggest that you advertise with MHISC just to support the association's good deeds. But what if I could show you that the association offers you the absolutely best way to target the audience you want?

Read on:

Update
Update is the magazine you’ll see on owners’ and managers’ desks across the state. This is not your typical dull association newsletter. It’s colorful, interesting and full of news. Everybody in the industry reads and talks about Update.

MODern Times
Want to target retailers, residential builders and everyone in the modular end of our business? MODern Times is the only magazine dedicated to the modular market in South Carolina.

MHISC.com
Looking for repeat exposure for your company day after day? Want to make it super-easy for potential customers to contact you? These days it’s just about impossible for retailers and others to do business in our state without turning to www.MHISC.com. That’s where they find the association’s detailed, exclusive directory of people and companies plus all the essential facts, form, laws and info companies need to do business.

E-NEWSLETTER and MANUFAX Looking for a strong, immediate impact? Deliver your message to the in-box or fax machine of hundreds of owners, GM and Office Managers in a matter of seconds. And your message won’t be treated as spam—because it’s distributed with up-to-the minute news that members want and need to read. Learn more.

MEETING SPONSORSHIP
MHISC’s meetings are well-known for turn-out by retailers and other members. Multiply the power of your networking by being a meeting sponsor. You’ll get great exposure before, during and after the meeting.

Interested in more info?

Write us at mdillard@mhisc.com

Or go to: www.mhisc.com

Then click on "Promote Your Company"

Jim Martin's Son

2011-08-13T18:59:00.000-07:00

The industry joins together in sympathy and support for Jim Martin in the untimely passing of his son, Michael Martin, at the age of 38. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jim and Glenda and all the Martin family.

I really hated to hear this tragic news. Jim is such a great guy, one of the nicest in the industry. He's been with Kent-Gault Homes since 1983, a loyal and successful member of Mitch Gault's team. I got to know Jim and Glenda well when Jim was elected president of the Upstate Chapter and took a seat on the state association board.

They say there is nothing tougher than losing a child. Jim and Glenda will be in my prayers tonight and in all our thoughts in the weeks ahead.

Condolences can be sent to:
Jim and Glenda Martin
106 Bunker Hill Road
Greer, SC 29650

Beware of Misleading Fire Safety Report

2011-08-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

Alert: New report from the National Fire Protection
Associations is misleading. It lumps in statistics for pre-1976 homes that were built prior to the implemention of today's stringent national code for manufactured homes. Let me know if you get questions from the media or customers; we'll shoot the facts to you.

Modern-day manufactured homes have an excellent fire safety record.

Old Friends

2011-06-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

Lamar Sprinkle and Kevin Brady dropped by the office yesterday and Kevin McLamb sent a really nice note from his new home, Dallas. It reminds me of how many super people and excellent businessmen and women I've met in this industry over the years.

New Charleston Chapter Officers

2011-06-28T12:04:00.000-07:00

Congratulations and thanks to our 2011 - 2012 Charleston Chapter Officers: Melissa Petersen, President, Joanne Polston, VP and Sherran Wingler, Secretary - Treasurer!

The Charleston Chapter is going great guns. They had 40+ people for this month's meeting.

Have you noticed that some phrases people say look goofy when you put them in print? "Going great guns" is a pretty good example.

Song Honors Al Randall

2011-06-13T05:18:00.000-07:00

I Was Born A Randall Man
By The Toters

I was born a Randall man
Just trying to make a living and doing the best I can.
But when it's time for fishing, I hope you'll understand,
That I was born a Randall man.

My bossman is a banker down in Charleston.
We call on dealers in our big Crown Vics.
But today I'm calling on a lake, down near 95,
A little north of Highway 26.

I'm headed down to Santee this mornin'
Rolling out of Effingham SC.
You can buy an Effingham sandwich, hot dog or steak
But I'd rather pull my dinner from a lake.

Cause I was born a Randall man
Just trying to make a living and doing the best I can.
But when it's time for fishing, I hope you'll understand
That I was born a Randall man.

Publish Post

Save as Draft

Al Randall: The Man Behind the Myth

2011-06-06T06:46:00.000-07:00

You'll be hearing a lot of funny and nasty things about Al Randall leading up to and during MHISC's Fall Meeting in Charleston. That's because one of the highlights will be the much-anticipated Al Randall Roast. We've already lined up three cards, Ronnie Cudd, Ronnie Boyce and Clarence "Ronnie" Stickland, to be roasters and we'll be picking two others.

Of course everybody knows that people are chosen as roastees because: 1. they are good sports; 2. everybody likes them and 3. they have strong, interesting personalities.

Somebody who is very literal minded (Germans, engineers) wouldn't quite get it. At a roast, people heap abuse on someone they admire a lot.

That Sappy Moment
There's always that sappy moment at roasts when people get all sincere and talk about what a great American and true humanitarian the roastee really is.

That part of the roasts usually sucks so I'd like to get all the nice stuff about Al out of the way early:

The first time I met Al was at an MHISC Chapter meeting. Like everybody, I liked him right off the bat. He quickly got involved,becoming a chapter officer. We recognized his leadership ability and Al rose through the ranks, ultimately being elected president of the state MHISC. He did a great job, building consensus on the board and being a great ambassador to the general membership.

But two of the things I appreciate about Al Randall are less widely known. We'll joke at the roast about Al being a carouser. But did you know that Al is known as the guy who gets the people who've massively over-indulged safely back to the hotel?

And you really have to appreciate Al's willingness to do the tough jobs for the association. For example, thankless assignments such as delivering bad news. He's always been the guy you ask to tell an eager member "you aren't being nominated to the board this year, maybe next year." Or, "you didn't make the Hall of Fame this time, but your day will come."

Al always got those challening jobs because we knew he'd deliver the news with skill and empathy.

Ok: enough appreciation and sappiness. Let's get back to trashing Al Randall!

Controversy Rages in Association

2011-05-31T17:36:00.000-07:00

Some members like the name of MHISC's new band; others hate it.

"The Tie-Downs" will debut at the association's Fall Meeting in Charleston on October 20. This group of talented and semi-talented MHISC members will provide the entertainment for the Fall Meeting. Highlights include the SC Retail Center, Salesperson and Community of the Year. Plus we'll roast Al Randall.

Votes at MHISC's Midlands and Upstate Chapter meetings showed that an almost equal number of members prefer the "The Toters" with "The Ups" coming in third.

One thing that virtually all members seem to agree on is the choice for this year's roast. We surveyed the membership and found that more people would enjoy insulting Al Randall than any other member.

2011-05-19T18:53:00.000-07:00

MHISC's band will deput at Fall Convention October 20 in Charleston.

Sacrificial Lambs Sniffing Sour Milk

2011-05-17T09:55:00.000-07:00

One of MHISC's roles is to represent the views of the industry to the news media.

WFAV, the public radio station in Charlotte did a 25 minute interview about wind safety.

The reporter seemed like a nice guy but I think he went into the interview with some pretty negative, and common, assumptions. You get the feeling that after your comments are chopped and edited, the result isn't going to be pretty.

Apparently some other people in the industry turned down the opportunity to be interviewed. I felt like the sacrificial lamb, but somebody's got to do these interviews.

Being interviewed and listening to how your comments get translated into a news story is sometimes a bit like finding an old milk carton in the back of the refrigerator. You KNOW it's going to be sour but you open it up and take a sniff anyway.

They plan to send it to NPR, so if hear happen to hear the piece, please let me know how it went. There's always that small hope that maybe the reporter will say, "I get it; modern-day manufactured homes are well-built and they have a great safety record. That Dillard guy is right. There's no disputing his logic and command of the facts."

It could happen that way, right? Let's take a wiff of that milk

It's a Major Award!

2011-05-15T20:15:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite movie scenes. Remember when Dad won A Major Award in the movie "A Christmas Story"?

MHISC also has won A Major Award. Our website, www.MHISC.com was voted Best Association Website in SC. The awards are issued annually by the SC Society of Association Executives, an umbrella organization for all the state's major association. We won in the small association category for groups with an annual budget of under $1,000,000.

One major factor in the honor is our Member's Only Library section. And the fact that the on-line membership directory is updated weekly and new releases, factsheets and other News to Use is added to the website every week.

If you don't know your password for the Members Only section, just email me at mdillard@mhisc.com

Jamie Hammond

2011-04-28T14:39:00.001-07:00

I was sorry to see that my friend and counterpart in Georgia is leaving the association. He's taking a job with the Trucking Association there. Jamie is an energetic and enthusiastic personality and all of the state execs enjoyed working with him.

Energy Star TV Spot

2011-04-26T19:01:00.000-07:00

A new television spot promoting the energy efficiency of modern-day manufactured homes will run this month in four South Carolina TV markets. The spots are running on WIS-TV, to be followed in the Charleston, Florence - Myrtle Beach, and Greenville - Spartanburg markets.

The spots will run for two weeks with an 800-number at the end. I've been getting those calls. We've put together a list of SC retailers that currently have Energy Star homes on display to send to interested potential buyers.

Paul Laurent to be Inducted into SC Manufactured Housing Hall of Fame

2011-02-11T19:43:00.000-08:00

Paul Laurent plays a key role in the manufactured home industry. He represents the retailer salespersons on the SC Manufactured Housing Board. That's the state agency that regulates our manufacturers, retailers, salespersons, contractors and installers.

He's been conscientiously doing the job for a while; Paul was appointed to the board by Governor Campbell in 1993.

Mr. Laurent has been elected to the SC Manufactured Housing Hall of Fame. He will be inducted at MHISC's Annual Meeting in Columbia April 5th.

Mr. Laurent's government role followed several years of service as an association leader. He served as MHISC Charleston Chapter President, Dealer representative on the state board and on the Executive Committee as Treasurer.

MHISC is the business association that represents the manufactured home industry. SC Manufactured Housing Board is the state agency board that regulates the industry.

Paul comes from a tradition of service to the industry, of giving back to the profession. He worked with Wayne Collier and Larry Emanuelson, both early inductees into the Hall of Fame, at Dixie-George Jones Homes.

That collaboration has twice earned South Carolina Retail Center of the Year Recognition as George Jones Homes, Dixie Homes and Dixie-George Jones Homes. Paul has also been elected as SC Salesperson of the Year. All of these honors are voted on by the MHISC membership.

If you sat in on every meeting of the SC Manufactured Housing Board as I do, one of Paul's greatest contributions would be obvious to you. He is the voice of experience and reality on the licensing board.

Occasionally a smooth talker comes before the board who clearly deserves to be sanctioned for a violation of the laws that all dealers and salespersons must follow. Some of the smoothies can explain away their violations in a way that sounds pretty good. But Paul, with his decades of experience and full understanding of the rules and ethics of the business, is the person can pick out the false notes in a violator’s story. Paul is a person who can explain to the SCMHB members who aren't in our industry how things really work at a retail center--what's proper and legal and what isn't.

A native of Michigan, Paul came to SC after college via the Charleston Air Force Base in 1970. He married Sheila in '72 and went to work with his father-in-law, Harvey Jones at George Jones Homes in North Charleston, SC. He worked with the company for 34 years variously as a salesperson, manager or owner.

In 1994, Mr. Jones sold George Jones Homes to Wayne Collier, owner of Dixie Homes. Paul agreed to stay on and run the business. In 2005 the company merged its Dixie Homes store in Summerville with George Jones and the whole operation, including GM Larry Emanuelson, moved to Moncks Corner and became Dixie-George Jones Homes.

Laurent cites those three friends and mentors as positive influences in his career.

"I was brought up in a household where you were taught to respect others and treat others as you would want to be treated; be fair and honest," he says.

"Working with and for Harvey Jones, Wayne and Larry allowed me to put to practice those same values in a business setting."

Paul and Sheila are the proud father of Amy Laurent who is attending graduate school at Duke University.

Things You Wont Hear at the Hall of Fame Induction: Part Two

2011-02-04T18:13:00.000-08:00

The First Convention was the Worst Convention

I didn't know that nobody ever listens on Friday night at the MHISC convention.

I started work at MHISC two weeks before the 1992 convention. 300 people there and I knew about four of them.

The Friday night reception: a great opportunity to make a good first impression on a lot of members. I got up and said some positive things and worked a couple of jokes in.

Nobody laughed. They didn't even listen. They just kept talking.

I didn't realize that it's an MHISC tradition that nobody ever listens on Friday night at the convention. It's a party, people have just arrived and they want to catch up with each other. President Roosevelt could have shown up and nobody would listen.

"These people hate me," I thought, "They just plain hate me."

Right there at the reception, I decided I'd just quietly resign when I got back to the office on Monday.

Now, of course, I've been voted into the industry's Hall of Fame, a honor that means a lot to me. I feel like Sally Field when she won an Oscar and told the members of the Academy in Hollywood in happy surprise, "You like me, you really like me!"

Thanks to this honor, I'm over the trauma of that first MHISC convention. And it only took 19 years.

Things You Won't Hear at the Hall of Fame Induction

2011-02-02T18:16:00.000-08:00

Being inducted into the Hall of Fame is really an honor and something to be excited about.

This year we are inducting three people into the SC Manufactured Hall of Fame including Leonard Sanford and Paul Laurent. It'll be a great evening: April 5 in Columbia, part of MHISC's annual meeting.

Since this will be a triple-header I'll have to be pretty concise. In contrast to certain unnamed previous inductees whose names are not necessarily Clarence Strickland and Larry Parker.

I know people will be disappointed that there won't be time for 20 years worth of entertaining anecdotes that night. Thank goodness you won't have to miss them. Read on:

Changing Jobs: The Move to MHISC

My first job in association management was as an Associate Director of another association here in Columbia. I worked under a boss who was the Executive Director. I quickly learned that the difference between being Associate Director and Executive Director was a wide one.

The Executive Director goes on trips.
The Associate Director stays at the office and writes the reports.

The Executor Director gets the credit.
The Associate Director does the work.

The Executive Director receives a Pretty Decent Salary.
The Associate Director get about 45% of a Pretty Decent Salary.

I made a career decision: "I think I'd like to be an Executive Director."

The interview with the MHISC Search Committee was interesting. One of the committee members was pushing a family friend for the job and tried to knock me out of the box.

"Do you really think you'd fit in with us? We're baseball cap people. Have you ever even been in a manufactured home?"

I explained that I was an ol boy from the hills of Tennessee. Actually it was the suburbs near Vanderbilt University in Nashville, but hey it was pretty hilly up there.

The committee voted to hire me on a 7 to 5 vote. My mandate to lead.

Honoring Leonard Sanford

2011-01-28T07:08:00.001-08:00

MHISC will induct three people into the SC Manufactured Hall of Fame this year. The Hall of Fame Class of 2011 will include Leonard Sanford, Paul Laurent and Mark Dillard. I'll be writing about Mr. Laurent in the next blog.

The induction ceremony will be April 5 in Columbia, a part of MHISC's Annual Meeting. You really ought to come and hear what people say about these individuals and what they have to say about our industry.

Leonard Sanford has been a leading retail dealer for over four decades in our industry. He is the classic self-made businessman and entrepreneur who started a business at the age of nine, selling boiled peanuts. His interests and properties and friends combine to make him one of the cornerstones of the business community in Orangeburg.

Leonard gave several manufactured housing dealers a start in our business, including Gerald Herring and Tom Ulmer, who worked with Mr. Sanford at Mid-State Homes and ultimately bought the business. Dot Tatum started at Mid-State in the sixties and still works with Mr. Sanford.

Mid-State has a spotless record; the type of business that enhances the reputation of our industry with local leaders and the public as well.

A friend of many governors and Congressmen, Leonard has been generous in using his political clout to benefit the manufactured home industry. Early in Jim Hodges'successful race for Governor, Mr. Sanford invited me to come down to Orangeburg to get to know his pick for Governor. That was the start of a great relationship between MHISC and the Guv.

Mr. Sanford has been helpful to MHISC in lots of different ways, typically in a low-key, modest way. For example he served on the panel that wrote the test that applicants now take to earn a dealer's license. He served on an MHISC fund-raising committee and on the MHISC Dealer Roundtable.

Leonard is the senior member of the state's premier manufactured home family. Two other members of the Hall of Fame are nephews, Jeff Sanford and Larry Parker and great-nephew Larry Parker, Jr. Industry pioneer Ray Sanford was his brother.

Leonard bought Mid-State Homes from Ray in the mid-sixties from his brother. He then added two additional locations, Southern Homes and Carolina Homes.

Innovations at Mid-State included a furniture operation on-site at Mid-State. Mr. Sanford also rents out properties and homes and is a major commercial developer in the area.

Mr. Sanford is much appreciated by community leaders in Orangeburg for a lot of reasons. Just one is the way he bought and revitalized Orangeburg Mall and brought Ace Hardware back to the area. He owns a really nice meeting facility in the Mall.

Leonard enjoys several friendships that span more than a half century. Loyalty is the key.

Mr. Sanford and David Bennett, the Director of the SC Manufactured Housing Board, enjoyed each other's company. Of course you could say that being tight with regulators is a smart thing to do.

But I remember when David was very ill and it was obvious that he wouldn't be running the licensing board much longer. Leonard took David and his wife Dee out on the town in a beautiful limousine. It was a great time and really boosted David's spirits.

I hope you'll come on April 5 and join in honoring Leonard for the type of man he is and what he's contributed to our industry.

Recruiting More Lenders for the MH Industry

2011-01-20T12:25:00.000-08:00

MHISC presented a seminar to members of the SC Credit Union League about the advantages of making loans for manufactured home loans.

An impressive list of credit unions actively interested in exploring the manufactured home market attended, including Safe Federal Credit Union, SC Telco Federal Credit Union, Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union, May Plan Credit Union, Neighbors United Credit Union and Heritage Trust Federal Credit Union.

Allen gave them an overview--including lots of photos--of the quality, durability and attractiveness of modern-day manufactured homes. Credit union officials reported that they get lots of calls from their members seeking manufactured home loans and that the seminar was an eye-open for them. Now in the works, a special presentation at the SC Credit Union League's annual meeting.

Don't be so 2010

2011-01-13T06:27:00.000-08:00

I keep MHISC's on-line membership directory up on my computer all day. It's the only source for current phone numbers and emails for people in the modular and manufactured home industries.

I used to open up http://www.mhisc.com/ several times a day, virtually every time I called or emailed a member. But that's so 2010. It's a lot quicker and easier just to open the directory and minimize it while you're working on something else. Then you can reopen it at a click.

All MHISC member companies that have renewed for 2011 have received this year's new password to the Member's Only page where you find the directory. If you haven't received the password, let me know at mdillard@mhisc.com

New Chapter Meeting Schedule

2011-01-08T19:27:00.000-08:00

MHISC's six chapters meet in February. The chapters have adopted a new quarterly meeting schedule. The 2011 chapter schedule includes meetings for: February, May, August, and November. Many chapters will hold a special December Christmas event.

The association's six chapters are: Beaufort, Charleston, Grand Strand, Midlands, Pee Dee and Upstate.

Gov Appoints Henry Drury

2011-01-06T20:12:00.001-08:00

We’re pleased to let you know that Henry Drury has been appointed by Governor Mark Sanford to serve on the SC Building Codes Council. This is a key agency for our industry, regulating modular and building code issues for our state.

Henry was appointed upon recommendation of MHISC. He has previously served the industry as a Board Member, Chapter officer and on the SC Modular Steering Committee. Henry will join the Council in February, a crucial meeting when the agency takes up another round of debate on the future SC version of the International Residential Code for modular and site-built homes

Spiffing Up the Grounds

2010-12-29T13:16:00.000-08:00

I got the sidewalk edged and the shrubs around the MHISC office trimmed this PM. We have a new neighbor moving into the Mansion across Gadsden Street and want to make a good impression.

Scott Heinrick to the Rescue

2010-12-08T07:25:00.000-08:00

Kudos to member Scott Heinrick in Moncks Corner. Scott answered a call for help issued to the industry for a citizen who needed quick help with her HVAC and home. A single mother of four was facing a very cold week-end last week. She was a hard-working clerical worker who had no heat. After we sent out a call to members in the Charleston area, Scott stepped forward with immediate help for the family. It's great to have so many kind, helpful people in our industry!

Good News About Penny Randall

2010-11-17T10:49:00.000-08:00

We’re happy to report to you that Penny Randall continues to make an excellent recovery following last week’s heart attack. The doctors say she should be able to go home this week. Al asked me to tell you how much the industry’s support and prayers have made to him during this challenging time!

Penny Randall

2010-11-10T11:42:00.001-08:00

The industry joins together in prayerful support of Al and Penny Randall. We understand that Penny has suffered an apparent heart attack and is hospitalized. We hope to get more information soon as doctors do some evaluations this afternoon. We all are keeping Al and Penny and their sons in our thoughts and prayers.

Cheap Thrill

2010-11-10T08:51:00.000-08:00

I always get a cheap thrill when the first of the membershp renewals come in each year.

Part of it is that we'll be able to pay the light bill.

The other is that some members turn-around the renewal the day they get the invoice. It might be that the invoice comes in the day they pay bills. But I like to think these are the enthusiastic members who think, "Sure, I want to renew. No doubt about it!" It's sort the same sort of affirmation Sally Fields felt when she won an Academy Award and shouted: "You really do like me!"

Matt Yow was the first person to renew this year. Also in the first batch were Paul Laurent, Derek Blackwell, Rick Sanders, John Johnson, Caroline Sparks, Mitch Gibbons, John Wilkerson, Sid Moore, David Huckabee, Mitch Gault, Scott and Jennifer Oliver, Vernon Deloach, Bill Hopper, Charles Norkett, and Ed Rice.

Thanks Ed, Charles, Bill, Vernon, Scott and Jennifer, Mitch, David, Sid, John, Mitch, Caroline,John, Rick and Derek!

2010-11-09T12:20:00.000-08:00

MHISC’s 2011 Annual Meeting
April 5 - 6
Columbia, SC

A New Type of MHISC Annual Meeting

Now you can enjoy all the goodies of an MHISC Annual meeting
for the fraction of the money and a fraction of the time
of a traditional convention.

Reception and Gourmet Dinner Golf Tournament

Meet the Industry’s Up-and-Comers as MHISC Recognizes its Five for the Future

Celebrate What’s Best About our Industry:
Honor the newest member of the SC Manufactured Housing Hall of Fame

Annual Meeting: The best speakers, the latest developments; the most useful information

Conveniently located in the Center of our State

New SAFE Act Guidelines Make Life Easier for Retailers

2010-11-08T18:56:00.000-08:00

MHISC has solicited and received guidelines on what retailers can and cannot do under the federal SAFE Act. The new guidelines will make it easier for MH retailers to communicate with their customers and help them through the buying process.

If you are an MHISC member and would like to receive a copy of the new guidelines please contact the association at info@mhisc.com.

Shirley Shamblin

2010-11-01T13:36:00.000-07:00

My choice for MHISC Member of the Week is Shirley Shamblin with Jensen's Southern Palms in Ladson.
Shirley sent back a nice thank you note when we distributed the updated membership diretory electronically last week.
Keeping up the directory is quite an undertaking. We update the on-line directory literally every week. That's something we couldn't do with the old "hard copy" directory.
Collecting the data and keeping the directory up-to-date is a time-consuming process. But it gives member access 24 - 7 to the latest information about members and companies in the industry. People are starting to see the directory as a valuable member benefit

Association Recruiting Community Banks and Credit Unions

2010-10-12T08:48:00.000-07:00

MHISC is meeting with individual credit unions and community banks to show them how how attractive manufactured home loans can be for them.

The program is an initiative of the association's Image and Professionalism Committee. If you are interested in working with a bank in your area, please contact MHISC.

Tuesday Teaser Winners

2010-05-12T06:43:00.000-07:00

Ken Drachman won yesterday's Tuesday Teaser contest. Correct answers were: Ray Sanford, Jimmy Eaves and Larry Parker.

Dave Fautley, Todd Hiott, Rob Nunn, and Linda Parker rounded out the First Five Finishers

Mr. Eddie Cockrell

2010-05-03T18:10:00.000-07:00

The industry mourns the passing of Mr. Eddie Cockrell, veteral retailer and owner of Discount Homes in Sumter. Eddie was a highly regarded businessperson and leader in our industry. I've heard from many of his friends in the industry, asking about arrange and saying what a great person Eddie was.

You an go to ecsfunerals.com for details on arrangments for Mr. Cockrell. Visitation is tomorrow(Tuesday), and services are Wednesday.

Mr. Ed Mitchell

2010-03-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

The industry mourns the passing of Mr. Ed Mitchell, long-time CEO of Mascot Homes.

Mr. Mitchell was a charter member of the SC Manufactured Housing Hall of Fame and a member of the national MH Hall of Fame as well.

As the founder of Mascot Homes in Spartanburg County, Ed played a pioneering role in manufactured home an...d modular home manufacturing in South Carolina. He served as Chair of the MHISC Board of Directors. Active and well-respected in the political world, Ed Mitchell was a friend of key government leaders in Columbia and Washington and served in important posts such as the SC Highway Commission.

The manufactured and modular home industries benefitted for decades from Mr. Mitchell's good name and political clout. He worked for positive legislation to move the industry forward and was a key early supporter for the creation of the SC Manufactured Housing Board, the state agency which regulates the industry.

Mr. Mitchell produced a home known nationally for its high quality construction. He operated sales centers around the state and was an early proponent of subdivision development with his homes.

The prayers and thoughts of the industry go out to Faye and all of the Mitchell family. Tentative arrangements are for visitation Wednesday night and services Thursday. Details will be published on MHISC's Facebook and Blog. Both locations can be easily accessed on the home page for www.mhisc.com.

Grand Strand Chapter in the Works

2010-02-23T11:12:00.000-08:00

MHISC met with association members in the Conway area about starting a Grand Strand Chapter. The idea got enthusiastic support.

We saw a lot of friendly faces and met some newcomers who were impressive individuals.

Copy and paste the address below in your Address Bar at the top of the page to go to our Facebook page and see the photos....

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Manufactured-Housing-Institute-of-South-Carolina/215220080197#!/pages/Manufactured-Housing-Institute-of-South-Carolina/215220080197?v=photos

(I don't know why you can't click on the address and go there. It may be a sunspot thing.)

Arrangements for Mr. Paul Mitchell

2010-02-17T09:24:00.000-08:00

Here are details about arrangements for Mr. Paul Mitchell, a member of the South Carolina Manufactured Housing Hall of Fame who passed away on Monday.

The family will receive friends Thursday, February 18, 2010, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Seawright Funeral Home with Masonic Rites to be held at 6:00 PM.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Inman First Baptist Church on Friday, February 19, 2010, at 2:00 PM with Rev. Tom Legrand officiating. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Inman with Military Honors.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Inman First Baptist Church Building Fund, 14 N. Howard St., Inman, SC 29349 or Smith Phayer Hospice House, 260 Fairwinds Road Landrum, SC 29356 or Alzheimer's Research, 114 E. Earle St. Anderson, SC 29621-5602.
An online guest register is available at www.seawright-funeralhome.com.
The family is at the home.

Paul was 77. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at the Smith Phayer Hospice House in Landrum.
Born in Beech Springs, (Fairforest) SC on July 18, 1932, he was the son of the late John Victor and "Mamie" Poteat Mitchell and was the loving husband of Patricia Thomas Mitchell having celebrated over 54 years of marriage.
Mr. Mitchell was the Vice-President of sales at Mascot Homes Inc. Mr. Mitchell was honored to be inducted into the South Carolina Manufactured Homes Hall of Fame in 2003.
He was a resident of Inman, SC,a faithful member of Inman First Baptist Church and a member of the Co-Ed 4 Sunday School Class. He was a member of the Inman Masonic lodge #201 and served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War on the U.S.S. Shenandoah (AD-26).
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Ann Reynolds and her husband Paul of Wellford and Denise Allen and her husband Andrew of Concord, NC; five granddaughters, Anna Christie and her husband Jeremy of Inman, Ashley Bobo of Inman, Victoria Bobo of Wellford, Augusta Allen of Concord and Heather Allen of Concord; one great-granddaughter, Zoey Christie; one brother, Ed Mitchell and his wife Faye of Inman; one sister, Catherine DeLapp of Reidsville, NC; and a sister-in-law, Lucille Mitchell of Inman and many nieces and nephews. One brother, John Mitchell; and two sisters, Ann McBride and Ruth Moore, predeceased him.

Mr. Paul Mitchell

2010-02-16T13:29:00.000-08:00

The industry mourns the passing of Mr. Paul Mitchell, a long-time leader in the SC manufactured and modular home industries. A popular representative and Vice President for Mascot Homes, Paul was a past MHISC Chair and a member of the SC Manufactured Housing Hall of Fame. Our sympathies go out to Pat and all of the Mitchell family. We’ll let you know as arrangements are announced.

MHISC Hosts Majority Leader

2010-02-15T09:07:00.000-08:00

MHISC hosted a tour for House Majority Leader Kenny Bingham at Congaree Home Center. Owner Art Newton and MHISC Executive Director Mark Dillard pointed out features that make today's modern-day manufactured and modular homes a high-quality option for SC families.

Bingham, a supporter of the manufactured home industry, serves on the key Ways and Means committee in addition to his leadership role as majority leader.

Charleston Chapter Meeting - February, 2010

2010-02-15T07:05:00.000-08:00

Scroll down for photos of MHISC's February 10 Chapter Meeting at Gilligan's

See the Pix

2009-12-20T09:45:00.000-08:00

MHISC Chapter Golf Tournaments, Christmas Parties and Fundraisers

One of the strengths of the Manufactured Housing Institute of SC is our strong chapter system. The association has five chapter across the state; Beaufort, Charleston, Midlands, Pee Dee and Upstate.

Chapter members are often competitors. But members build unity by banding together to support worthwhile causes. And chapter Christmas events, like all chapter meetings, are a great way to get to know other professionals in the manufactured and modular home industries.

Follow the link to see the photos: www.mhisc.com
Just click on the Facebook logo on the top right of the page.
Then you can scroll down to see the photographs I've posted the last few weeks.

MHISC Chapter Holiday Events

2009-11-28T19:05:00.000-08:00

Allen and I are off to the Charleston Chapter Soiree in a few minutes. I look forward to finding out what a soiree is -- Mark

December 16th - Charleston Chapter Soiree
Gilligan's in Goose Creek 6:30 PM
TurkeyShoot, White Elephant Gift Exchange and
Lowcountry Orphan Relief
For more details contact: Melissa Petersen 843-552-3600
or Sherran Wingler 843-556-1641

December 18th - Pee Dee Chapter Christmas Party
BBQ at Clayton Homes of Florence
1619 East Palmetto Street; Florence 29506
For more details contact: Ronnie Boyce 843-664-8400
or Al Randall 843-617-3779

New Committee Focuses on Land-lease Communities

2009-11-11T13:29:00.000-08:00

There will be a day when South Carolina's manufactured home community managers will look back with appreciation at the work done by these MHISC Members:

Marti Dickson, Sheila Jurgensmeyer, Joe Esposito, Carol Marsh, Shirley Shamlin and Sherran Wingler

These six leaders are the founding members of MHISC's New Community Managers Committee. At the group's organizational meeting the committee got to work, identifying the key factors that the association can tackle to help our land-lease communities to thrive. The Committee looked at factors like finance and image. Their plan is to pick a project each year that will make a real difference in the properity and future of our "parks."

The group will finish their feasibility study and, in December, pick a project and lay out a game plan. Their emphasis is on real-world practical improvements that be made at the state association level.

MHISC is Growing

2009-10-01T16:28:00.000-07:00

Three new MHISC members this week: Equity Homes, Hat-Fields, and Hawks Nest. Our industry WILL thrive again the way the association is doing! And a new group: MHISC's Community Managers Committee meets Friday to map a plan to help our state's MH communities. Thanks to Marti Dickson, Joe Esposito, Sheila Jergensmeyer, Carol Marsh, Bob Peebles, Shirley Shamblin and Sherran Wingler.

Recognize any of these names?

2009-09-02T14:54:00.000-07:00

MHISC's committees play an important role in the association and in the manufactured home industry. Here are MHISC leaders appointed to committee posts for the 2090-2010 association year

MHISC DEALER ROUNDTABLE
Richard Bagwell, Larry Emauelson, Mitch Gault, Mitch Howard
Trey Ledbetter, Tony Massarelli, Barry MacDowell, Sid Moore
Art Newton, Van Wells

SC MODULAR STEERING COMMITTEE
Henry Drury, Larry Emanuelson, Bobby Hounsell, Dennis Jones,
Joe Manis, Michael McLean, Marion Moore, Art Newton,
Ramon Sanchez-VinasChip Smith, Hiller Spann, Mark Winstead

IMAGE AND PROFESSIONALISM COMMITTEE
Allison Blankenship, Tim Cavanaugh, Sherman Currin, Ben Flores
Mike “Happy” Jackson, Sheila Jurgensmeyer, David Kinney, Dale Lackey
Melissa Petersen, Sheila Roelleke, Brian Rowland, Kim Sibley,
Joey Wildes

MHISC MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
Alison Blankenship, Sherman Currin, Brian Donnelly, Ben Flores
Sam Gamble, David Kinney, Marie Layfield, Rob Nunn
Robert Rizzetta, Mike Smith, Joey Wildes

MHISC LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
Dale May, Steve Merrick, Ray Paulk, Melissa Petersen
John Polk, Mike Stone, Mike Smith, Ira Usry
Joe Walden

We THINK that everybody who volunteered has been placed in their first or second choice committee. If you were accidentially omited from the lists above, please contact mdillard@mhisc.com.

Thank you to these leaders who are donating their time to serve in these leadership position.

In the works: a powerful, revamped MHISC Political Committee.

New MHISC Committee Appointments Announced

2009-09-01T21:36:00.000-07:00

MHISC's committees play an important role in the association. Our Chair, Trey Ledbetter, has appointed committee members for the 2009-2010 association year.

As you'll note the members are a Who's Who of the manufactured home industry in SC.
Listed below are members of the Dealer Roundtable, SC Modular Steering Committee and the MHISC Membership Committee.

Some of the committees filled up quickly this year, but I think we have assigned everyone who expressed an interest to at least their first or second choice assignment. If we accidentally missed you, please let me know by emailing mdillard@mhisc.com or calling me at (803) 771-9046.

MHISC Dealer Roundtable

Richard Bagwell
Larry Emauelson
Mitch Gault
Mitch Howard
Trey Ledbetter
Tony Massarelli
Barry MacDowell
Sid Moore
Art Newton
Van Wells

SC Modular Steering Committee

Larry Emanuelson
Bobby Hounsell
Dennis Jones
Joe Manis
Michael McLean
Marion Moore
Art Newton
Ramon Sanchez-Vinas
Chip Smith
Hiller Spann
Mark Winstead

MHISC Membership Committee

Alison Blankenship
Sherman Currin
Brian Donnelly
Ben Flores
Sam Gamble
David Kinney
Marie Layfield
Rob Nunn
Robert Rizzetta
Mike Smith
Joey Wildes

On the next posting: MHISC’s Image and Professionalism, Political Committee and Leadership Council.

Pee Dee Chapter Meeting

2009-08-27T07:28:00.000-07:00

The Pee Dee Chapter meets Thursday night, August 27 at 6:30 at Nik's Home Cooking Cafe
3027 East Palmetto Street. (803) 412-0460.
Programs: FHA Loans - Brenda Anderson. Foundation Systems - Larry Parker,
$5 - a bargain price for a greet meeting.

Menu: Appetizers: Spring rolls and shrimp cocktain. Ribs and Chicken.

Nik's is also known as The Brass Lantern. Don't ask; it's a Florence thing.

Upstate Meeting Focuses on How to Increase Sales by Offering High-efficiency Homes

2009-08-12T07:05:00.000-07:00

MHISC Upstate Chapter members got tips on how to increase sales with Energy Star homes at Tuesday night's meeting. Members were surprised to learn that several retail centers in the Upstate are ordering nothing but Energy Star Homes.

Charlie Burkett, as usual, won the door prize.

Johnny Hunnicutt, QA manager for Schult's Rockwell plant, explained the nuts and bolts for qualifying customers for over $1000 in tax incentives for buying an Energy Star Home.

Chapter Meetings this Month

2009-08-06T19:22:00.000-07:00

All of MHISC's five chapters are meeting this month. Next up is the Charleston Chapter. They're meeting Wednesday August 19 at 6:30 PM. That's at Gilligans, 219 St. James Avenue in Goose Creek.

The Beaufort and Midlands Chapter met this week. Congratulations to Chapter Presidents Rick Green and Mark Eberflus for putting on great meetings.

You can always check for upcoming meetings at mhisc.com.

MHISC is appointing committee members. Interested?

2009-08-05T06:24:00.000-07:00

Much of the important work of MHISC is carried out by seven key committees.
The association is in the process of appointing members this week and next.

If you haven't been in contact with MHISC (responded to a survey, etc.) about being on a committee, just email us at mdillard@mhisc.com to get information on any of these groups. Most committees consist of 12 members and serve a one-year term.

Community Managers Committee
Dealer Roundtable
Image and Professionalism Committee
Leadership Council
Membership Committee
Modular Steering Committee
Political Committee

More Convention Photos From MHISC

2009-07-20T14:11:00.000-07:00

Here are more photos from the MHISC Convention on Hilton Head. It's great that so many people in the industry support the association and our events they way they do.

Staffers Kristen Brown, Andrea Westmoreland and Allen Hutto did a great job. Many thanks to our sponsors Clayton, Champion, McCall's, Fleetwood, Horton, First Federal, Tri-State, Stylecrest, 21st Mortgage, Manis Custom Builders, Crestline, T. S. Holt Co., Blevins, US Bank and Commodore Homes.

For More Information. Congratulations to Trey Ledbetter, newly-elected MHISC Chair. For a list of MHISC's new leaders and a convention report, go to http://www.mhisc.com/.

For More Photos. For lots more photos go to the Manufactured Housing Institute of South Carolina Facebook page. The easiest way to get there is to go to http://www.mhisc.com/ and click on the Facebook logo at the top right of the page.

See first photo. Times are a little tight so I'm moonlighting as Hiller Spann's bodyguard.

Saturday Morning

2009-07-17T19:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning at the convention is worth getting up for. Heck, just the breakfast is worth setting the alarm clock. Here's the menu: Omelet station, scrambled eggs, thick-sliced smoked bacon, home fries, streusel muffins, danish pastries, butter croissants, coffee cake, fresh fruit and seasonal berries.

Breakfast gets underway at 8:30. MHISC's annual meeting is at 9:00.

We'll have an informative panel of new lending programs including Rural Development no-money-down loans; SBA floor-planning; the new, improved Title I, and how to use the $8000 first-time homebuilder's tax credit.

Next a program on Energy Star Homes. Customers save $1000 when they buy one of these homes.

The SC Residential Modular Break-out Session will explain what different about placing homes now that two new building codes have kicked in. Plus building code officials from around the state tell you have setting a home and getting it approved can be much easier.

Spotted at the Convention

2009-07-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

If you're at the convention this week, scroll down for details about the cool events scheduled for Friday.

Photos We'll be adding to the pix below later on in the day. Also see our Facebook page, Manufactured Housing Institute of South Carolina for lots more photographs.

Here's some of the people I've seen around the lobby, or the pool, or at the reception last night. (Plus a few that have registered that must have been avoiding me!) Larry and Mickey Emanuelson, the Laurents, Scott King, the Gilliams, Trey Ledbetter and Company, Randy and Cindy Altman, John and Cathy Soukup, John and Flo Polk, Mike Smith, the Blankenships, Brian and Heather Poston, Russell Perryman, Chairman Art Newton and Karen,Joe Earnhardt, Brian and Cindy Rowland, Mark Celedonia, Kenny and Susan Welch, Brian and Heather Poston, the Rizzettas, Ronnie Cudd, Kim Manis, Mac and Becky McKeithan, Mike Chavis, Greg Roland and Mandy Roland and family, Linda Toomer, Gary Blue, Annette Drachman and some guy, Tony Massarelli, Van Wells, Sherman Currin, Melissa Petersen, Sherran Wingler, Sheila Jurgensmeyer, Todd and Kim Starnes, Nathan and Angie Starnes and a happy collection of little Starnes, Mitch, Ellen and Leigha Howard, the Cavanaugh's, Flores', and Wildes', Happy, Alli and Jon Jon, Fred and Francy Thompson, Alex Montagnet, Brian and Judy Donnelly, Tony , Jan, Chandler and Madison Massarelli (have you noticed that Tony's name is a lot more Italian than Tony himself?), Rand and Clan, first-timers Don and Debbie Atkinson, Jeff and Ruth Anne Sanford (Mark hasn't been spotted yet), Chris and Laurie Jenkins, Bill Vogel now with Stylecrest, WA and Pearline, Doug and Susan. Who'd I miss and where you been hiding?

Convention Report - Thursday

2009-07-16T18:07:00.000-07:00

Wow, we're going to have over 200 people at the MHISC convention this year. In a time when the full-fledged convention is becoming a rarity in the our industry, MHISC is putting on a traditional all-out, high-end three day event on Hilton Head.

If you're at the convention this week, check out the details for Friday's events in the next blog below.

And good news: the MHISC Board voted today to return to Hilton Head for another great three-day convention.

Are you on Facebook? Go to Manufactured Housing Institute of South Carolina to see lots of photos taken today at the MHISC Convention.

What's Happening Friday at the Convention

2009-07-16T17:04:00.000-07:00

Golfers gather for a continental breakfast at the registration desk at 6:45 Friday morning. Golf registration is 6:45 - 7:15 AM at Robbers Row in Port Royal.

Here are the teams as of 7:00 tonight:

Van Wells, David Rand, Dale Lackey, Hiller Spann
Trey Ledbetter, Ken Drachman, Ben Flores, Mark Eberflus
John Polk, Ronnie Cudd, Bill Vogel, Larry Culp
Todd Hiott, Alex Montagnet, John Soukup, Kathy Soukup
Matt Yow, Mark Celedonia, Brian Rowland, Rob Nunn, Taylor Nunn
Henry Drury, Tony Massarelli, Mark Stone, Doug Marchbanks
Michael McLean, Whitney McLean, Vance McMillan, Joe Earnhardt
Alison Blankenship, Danny Blankenship, Stephen Blankenship, Tim Cavanaugh
Happy Jackson, Mike Smith, Joey Wildes, Brian Poston

Family Bingo runs from 3:00 to 4:00 in the Jasmine meeting room. Lemonade and jumbo home-style cookies. Lots of prizes; everybody wins.

Kayakers will meet in the lobby of the hotel. I've done this and it's a lot of fun! You'll enjoy some beautiful scenario, cool wildlife and see HHI from a whole new perspective.

Another great reception with a Hollywood theme Friday night from 6:00 to 7:00 in the Archer Ballroom. John Polk and todd Hiott will present awards from the morning's golf tournament. Want my guess as to which team will place first....well, Ronnie Cudd is playing tomorrow.

The menu includes: Seared tenderloin of beef, Carolina shrimp and grits, hot Colada shrimp toasted with cocoanut with a spicy apricot glaze, nine different cheeses, plus pineapple, cantaloupe, kiwi, berries, strawberries and grapes served with a honey poppyseed dressing, stone ground tortilla chips with six different salsa and cheese dips.

Thursday at the MHISC Convention

2009-07-15T21:04:00.000-07:00

Thursday night's welcome reception starts at 6:00 PM. in the Archer Ballroom.

The Logistics. Be sure and go by registration first. You'll get your drink tickets when you check in. Registration will be open at 3:30

The Menu! Low country shrimp. Oysters on the half shell. Warm Carolina blue crab dip, sesame-poppyseed lavosh and sliced baguettes. Carolina corn fritters with orange blossom honey butter.

Imported brie en croute (baked in a puff pastry with brown sugar, cognac and pecans.)
Fresh vegetable crudite (six types of fresh vegetables.)

Crispy shrimp and vegetable spring rolls with apricot ginger sauce.

Whipped potatoes served in martini glasses with toppings.

The Staff. At the registration desk you'll likely meet: Andrea Westmoreland, our office manager. Valene Sims, who works with us PT on things like our award-winning magazines. Emalee Dillard who will have a ready supply of "PAC tickets" for volunteers who are raising money for our Political Action Committee by selling the tickets. Grand Prize $3000 to be given away Saturday night.

Running the golf tournament Friday morning will be our General Counsel Allen Hutto. Kristen Brown, MHISC's Business Development Director, will be keeping the whole show running.

See you there.

Three New Developments at MHISC

2009-07-01T20:38:00.000-07:00

Lots going on at MHISC HQ today.

New Building Codes in Effect. Two new building code editions for modular homes kicked in today. A new version of the International Residential Code plus: SC switched to the International Energy Efficiency Code instead of the old state code.

MHISC Allowed to Enter Lawsuit over Licensing Board Powers. The SC Court of Appeals notified MHISC today that it will allow the association to enter a pending case dealing with the ability of the SC Manufactured Housing Board to license sales of used homes and new detitled homes. MHISC has filed a brief as a "Friend of the Court" in favor of the ability of the SCMHB to require licenses for people who sell manufactured homes. At stake is the ability of the state agency to keep repeat violators, and people who lose their license, out of the MH industry.

Look for the Cool 3DMail-out. The association today sent the final mail-out for the July 16 - 19 MHISC Convention on Hilton Head.

Excellent speakers have been booked for panels on New Lending Programs; Energy Efficiency Tax Breaks plus this year's Modular Break-out focuses on How to Satisfy County Wind and Seismic Set-up Requirements.

The mail-out includes everything you need to register for the convention and make hotel reservations (at the discount rate!)

Look for two new wrinkles in this year's golf tournament.

2009 -2010 Chapter Officers

2009-06-25T10:59:00.001-07:00

All of MHISC's regional chapters have elected officers for the upcoming 2009 - 2010 chapter year.

UPSTATE CHAPTER
President - Henry Drury
Vice President - Martin Davis
Secretary - Susan Marchbanks
Treasuer - Doug Marchbanks

I wonder if Doug and Susan are related, or are their names an amazing coincidence?

CHARLESTON CHAPTER
President - Melissa Petersen
Vice President - Joanne Polston
Secretary / Treasurer - Sherran Wingler
Director - Ken Drachman

Any chapter that is managed by not one, but two, fun-loving, red-headed "Truluck Ladies" is bound to be entertaining.

MIDLANDS CHAPTER
President - Mark Eberflus
Vice President - Matt Yow
Secretary / Treasurer Tarry Wilson

I think you have to have a name that nobody can spell to be a Midlands officer.

PEE DEE CHAPTER
President - Ronnie Boyce
Vice President - Al Randall
Johnny Hanna - Secretary
Ben Stephens - Treasurer

We won't make a joke about Pee Dee Chapter, since Mr. Randall is a rather large and scary man.

BEAUFORT CHAPTER
President - Rick Green
Vice President - Mike Nichols
Secretary / Treasurer - Katrina White

I made a few quips about the officers--which illustrates a point. Our chapters are informal and fun. You'll get some useful information and meet some really nice, easy-going people.

Midlands Chapter Meeting; Heartfelt Sympathy for David Kinney

2009-06-03T20:21:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to the 2009 - 2010 Midlands Chapter officers, elected tonight. They are Mark Eberflus-President; Matt Yow-Vice President and Tarry Wilson-Secretary Treasurer. As Chapter President, Mark will serve for another year on the MHISC State Board of Directors.

Members tonight heard from Trish Jerman, a top official with the SC Energy Office, about the new Energy Star Tax Incentive which kicks in July 1st. Trish got input from members about implementing the new law and publicizing the incentive.

We were deeply saddened to learn tonight of the untimely passing of David Kinneys wife, Sherry. I spent time with Sherry, David and their daughter Kerri-Beth at the convention last year and they were such a nice family and such good people. To lose Sherry at 51 is just a real tragedy and our prayers and thoughts go out to David and Kerri-Beth and all of their family.

Memorials may be made to the Coggins Memorial Baptist Church Building Fund, 1306 South Main St., Lexington NC 27292.

A lot of familiar faces tonight at the Midlands meeting, including members from all over the region from Aiken to Newberry. And good to see Dave Fautley, back from Florida.

Congratulations also to Tarry Wilson, who's taken a new position with Vanderbilt Mortgage.

I talked with a lot of members tonight who are planning to come to the convention including Scott Brinson, Mitch Howard, Art Newton, Matt Yow.

The members always appreciate it when the manufacturers serving South Carolina drop by the chapter meetings. It was good seeing Dale Lackey of Champion Homes and Tom Lefestey from Clayton Manufacturing tonight.

Al Randall, Jim Martin, Modular Directory, Beaufort Chapter

2009-06-02T18:35:00.000-07:00

Al Randall - We saw several industry friends at the service in Florence today for Al Randall's mother, Adelita Randall. It's a cliche about the people in our industry being like a family, but there is a lot of truth to it.

Jim Martin - Our thoughts and prayers also go out to Jim Martin and his family with the passing of Jim's mother this week. Please let me know if you'd like information on arrangements and memorials.

Modular Directory - Who's Who in the Modular Industry in South Carolina goes out to members tommorow, Wednesday. It's published by the SC Modular Housing Institute, MHISC's modular affiliate. The directory will be distributed electronically. If you don't get one Wednesday, just email me at mdillard@SCModularHome.com and we'll shoot you one. Who's Who will also be added to our modular website, SCModularHome.com sometime next week.

Beaufort Chapter - Had a good meeting this morning. Rick Green of Clayton Homes was elected chapter president. Mike Nickles will serve as VP and Katrina White as Secretary and Fred Bley, Treasurer. Who better to handle the money than the richest person in Beaufort County?

Manufactured Home Industry Email Directory

2009-05-21T08:43:00.000-07:00

MHISC's Email Directory is a convenient way to get access to all the movers, shakers and players in the manufactured home industry. If you aren't in there, I guess you are neither a mover, shaker or player.

OK, seriously, if you aren't in there, please send me an email at mdillard@mhisc.com and we'll add you.

The directories were sent via email to every 2009 Member of MHISC. You can save it to your computer and / or print it out.

What I like especially is that you can click on the names in the directory and it opens up your email for you and types in the email address for you. To me that's pretty slick. Of course I still think of fax machines as cutting edge technology.

We'll also have the email directory on our website, WWW.mhisc.com; by the end of next week. You'll also find the complete 2009 MHISC Membership Directory on the website.

Just click the "Members Only" button on the left of the home page. You can email me if you need the password.

Industry Policy-makers

2009-04-24T20:38:00.001-07:00

All of us in the industry owe a note of thanks to Ken Drachman, Sam Gamble and Tony Massarelli. These members came to the Statehouse to testify on behalf of MHISC. Their expertise and communication skills are a huge asset to our lobbying program at the Statehouse.

Y'all Remember Chris Herd.....

2009-04-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

Y'all remember Chris Herd, who managed display centers in Greenwood and W. Columbia.

Got a Facebook message from him:

"I just moved back to Greenwood from Key West, Florida. I needed a rest."

Florence County Installation Policy Changes

2009-04-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

Pee Dee Chapter members got some good information at Tuesday night's meeting in Florence. The county is implementing new inspection requirements for homes permitted on or before May 15.

Let me know if you'd like us to fax you a copy. That's if you'll promise to come to the next meeting in June. It's really helpful to attend the meetings so you can ask questions of the officials involved.

Kristen reports a good turn-out. In member news, we heard that Glenn Odom's daughter is expecting her first in September. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Stephen Johnston's family with the recent passing of his mother-in-law.

Golf! Get complete details on the Pee Dee Chapter's April 28th golf tournament by going to www.mhisc.com and clicking on the "Mhisc Meetings" button on the left. You can also get the scoop on MHISC's Hilton Head Convention on the same page.

The New, Improved, Expanded Midlands Chapter

2009-04-03T08:03:00.000-07:00

The idea of a Super Chapter for the middle part of the state MHISC Midlands Chapter is working out pretty well.

At Thursday's meeting we had dealers from as far west as Aiken, up to Newberry and east to Sumter. The independents were there and the chain retailers as well.

With the trend toward fewer retail locations, members decided to combine the Aiken and Sumter Chapters with Midlands for a year or two.

Photo: Members beam in anticipation of my report on tax law.

Mark Eberflus, MHISC's Midlands Chapter President is a naturally sunny person who brings a lot of positive energy the the meetings. He put together a great agenda for Wednesday's meeting.

John Owen from MHISC Member Lender SCB&T gave members an insider's view on how retailers can increase the odds in getting their deals approved. I gave a report on how to use the First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit to draw traffic and sell homes. We're going to expand on that subject with lots of proven marketing ideas at MHISC's Convention in July.

Speaking of the convention, Mitch Howard won the door prize, a free night's stay at the Westin Resort & Spa at MHISC's annual meeting in July.

Just a personal note, our thoughts and prayers are with the Howards as Ellen goes through her cancer treatments.
Here are some photos from the meeting.

Coming up:

MHISC's Beaufort Chapter meets Tuesday the 7th and the Charleston Chapter meets the next day on the 8th.

No Foolin' - Here's what happening in the MH Industry April 1

2009-04-01T08:37:00.000-07:00

Here's what happening in the SC Manufactured Home Industry Wednesday, April 1.

Midlands Chapter Meeting

Carolina Wings – 2347 Augusta Road, West Columbia
803-791-0260
Begins at 6:30pm

Program: Everything you Need and Want to Know about Your Relationship with the Bank. Speaker, John Owens, SC Bank & Trust

Special Report: How to Use the $8,000 Tax Credit to Draw Traffic and Sell Homes. Speaker, Allen Hutto, MHISC

Call Mark Eberflus to RSVP at 419-680-0996

Reception for Shannon Erickson, State Representative for Beaufort County - 5:30 Columbia

If you are a MHISC Member from Beaufort County or know Rep. Erickson, we'd like to have you attend with the MHISC staff. Just call me at (803) 771-9046 Ext. 4

Reception for David Thomas, State Representative for Beaufort County - 6:00 Columbia

If you are a MHISC Member from Greenville County or know Senator Thomas, we'd like to have you attend with the MHISC staff. Just call me at (803) 771-9046 Ext. 4

Chapter for Rock Hill / York County Members

2009-03-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

The York County Chapter is in operation, meaning that MHISC now has six chapters. The group met Tuesday and had a good turn-out. Kristen and I reported on issues impacting members, including the large number of community managers in the York Chapter.

MHISC members from York and Lancaster County are served by the chapter and, as with all chapters, all MHISC members are welcome.

Since the area is a smaller market with less companies and not as many hot issues, the chapter plans to meet less often than the standard monthly or every-other-month schedule the other chapters follow.

Besides the Rock Hill-based chapter, MHISC has chapters for the Upstate, Midlands, Pee Dee, Charleston, and Beaufort areas.

To check out upcoming meetings go to www.MHISC.com and click on Chapters or Calendar.

Attaboy, Attaway

2009-03-25T15:33:00.000-07:00

The MHISC staff presented a lot of useful information at this month's Upstate Chapter meeting. But, as usual, the staff learned even more from the members.

Allen put together a Powerpoint on how to make the most of the $8000 Homebuyer Tax Credit for selling manufactured homes. Having an attorney on the MHISC staff is a great asset to the association and the members.

I did a piece on the new Energy Star tax incentive which kicks in July 1.

As part of the program, Vance McMillan from Schult Homes explained to members what's involved in setting up a home to qualify for Energy Star.

The final piece of the program was presented by Randy Attaway, manager of Clayton's Anderson home display center. Randy talked about how to market Energy Star homes. Randy gave a very thoughtful and interesting talk.

In Mr. Attaway's view, the industry should be promoting the super-energy efficient homes whether there's a tax break or not. Intelligent customers, higher end customers, are familiar with Energy Star and immediately impressed. The low monthly power bills will continue to build customer satisfaction and good word-of-mouth about our product for years to come.

After the Flood

2009-03-20T21:11:00.000-07:00

People actually read these things. And they like to let you know when you've been slack keeping your blog up-to-date.

Our email at home is up and running for the first time since the flood. The water ruined the floors downstairs and also took out an HVAC unit.

I always pictured Upward Mobility as something to write at home at the end of the day. A few pithy words on the most important thing that happened in the manufactured home industry on that particular day.

No more excuses.

Honoring the Best

2009-01-24T11:38:00.000-08:00

No Concentration Required. I'm writing this while watching "Escape from LA" with Kirk Russell. Watching the flick doesn't require any concentration because it has the exact same plot as "Escape from New York." Except that instead of being forced to fight a big bruiser to the death to entertain all the lowlifes, Snake is forced to play basketball. Seriously; basketball. You've got to rent it to believe it.

Honoring the Best in the Business. There's a story on our website, www.MHISC.com, about the industry's Winter Meeting in Columbia.

http://mhisc.com/Meetings.html

Every company and person recognized really deserved the kudos: Kent-Gault Manufactured Homes, Ledbetter Housing, Clayton Homes of Beaufort, Katrina White, Mandy McGuire, Shannonwood, Strawberry Station, Jensen's Southern Palms and Crossroads. Sherman Currin gave a superb little thank you speech as we inducted him into the Hall of Fame. We should have all the pix from the meeting on-line by Tuesday.

Some Cool Moments at MHISC's Winter Meeting

* When Crossroads in Aiken came up to accept their award as Community of the Year, they brought their first two residents with them to share in the recognition. A nice touch.

* I've got to tell you, very sincerely, that it meant a lot to me and the staff that we had such a strong turn-out and show of support from our members Thursday night. Things are tight for everybody these days but it's great that our members still enjoy each other's company so much and will take the time to show their appreciation for the accomplishments of their friends in the industry.

* After three years of hearing short jokes from MC John Polk, I advised Mr. Polk that I'm 5'10" which is really more in the average range. So this year he instead pointed out that I had gone grey and "chunky."

* I was pleased to see one of SC's major utilities represented at the meeting. You'll be seeing more participation from utilities seeking to work with our industry to promote energy conservation. More about that later.

* We had great turn-outs for MHISC's Dealer Roundtable, Image and Professionalism Committee and Membership Committee meetings Friday morning. The committees are really important to MHISC and a huge help to the staff. You'll see ideas from all three groups come to fruition in coming months.

"Come to fruition." It's 10:37 PM and lame phrases like that indicate that my brain is more interested in sleep than writing right now.

Let's just end it by thanking everyone who came and supported our industry, our association and some very deserving winners.

On the Road with Mitch and Todd

2009-01-07T19:53:00.000-08:00

MHISC met with two up-and-coming legislators today and two already-there leaders.

Allen and I visited with Representatives Dan Cooper, Brian White, Eric Bedenfield and Mike Gambrell in their hometown offices.

Two of our members were a huge help, Todd Hiott and Mitch Gault. They went with us to visit leaders in their area; Mauldin, Greenville, Anderson County, etc. When the Columbia staff meets with politicos, having active MHISC members involved reminds the policy-makers that we are not just a Columbia association---MHISC is made up of neighbors, business-people from their area who vote and have influence.

PS: Check out Mr. Gault without the mustache he's had the last 50 years. Welcome to the new millenium, Mitch!

A Favorite Member

2009-01-03T17:58:00.000-08:00

I've always been impressed with a member named Mary Heinz, the manager of the Ashley Arbor community in North Charleston. We saw her a lot of the Charleston Chapter and Mary always went out of her way to speak and be friendly. She often had an intelligent question or thought about community management.

Mary called to let me know that her position with the company had been eliminated. "I didn't want you to hear it on the street," she said.

I thought that was a classy touch. Mary recognizes that the members in the industry are a close-knit group. After 16 years you get to know the members pretty well. Their backgrounds and families. The challenges they face.

Many industries and professions probably like to talk about how they are a family. But in our industry, this is more than just a cliche`

Phone Clones

2008-12-25T23:29:00.000-08:00

Ever noticed that Jon Gandy and Rick Sanders sound exactly the same on the phone?

Jon works for R-Anell and Rick is with McCall's Supply. You should call them on the phone and check it out. Just tell them I suggested you call them up and waste their time.

A Model Dealer

2008-12-25T23:13:00.000-08:00

Check out Model Dealer Dave Williamson on the cover of this month's MHISC Update magazine. The cover story is called "Tired of Waiting for Business?" and Dave's classic expression epitomizes what's going on in our industry right now.

But the article goes on to talk about four ideas to use right now to draw traffic and increase sales at the wholesale and retail level. The article includes reports on:
>>> How SC dealers are coping with the floor plan situation
>>> How to work the $7500 federal tax credit for first-time homebuyers
>>> A new SC-only $1000 tax break for MH buyers who go green
>>> New limits for FHA home-only loans

This is a news to use article that can make a difference in your business.

We sent Update to the printer last Wednesday, so it should arrive in members' mailboxes the second week in January.

"Member's Lightning Links" -- Saving Time and Frustration at Work

2008-12-13T21:41:00.000-08:00

Have you checked out www.mhisc.com the last couple of weeks? We totally revamped MHISC's web site a few weeks ago. Right now we're spiffing it up.

One feature you'll like is the Member's Lightning Link. You'll find it on the home page on the top right just under the MHISC logo.

You can order a SLED check and get your employees licensed.

You can look up any county official's or state employee's phone number. Also you can email all the state government contacts that run the manufactured, modular, residential builder and contractors program for state government.

All with one click. You can save a huge amount of time by starting on MHISC's home page: www.mhisc.com.

Who's Going to Be Inducted into the Hall of Fame?

2008-11-17T18:40:00.000-08:00

No one who lives outside of the state of South Carolina has ever been inducted into the SC Manufactured Housing Hall of Fame.

That will change January 22, when Sherman Currin will be inducted in the the industry's most exclusive club. That'll be at MHISC's State Winter Meeting in Columbia.

I sat in on the discussions when the Hall of Fame nominating committee voted to make Sherman our unique, first-time-ever inductee from outside of South Carolina.

Committee members cited several factors:

* Sherman has been in the business since 1970, devoting practically his entire career to the manufactured home industry.

* He's served several times on MHISC's Board of Directors, including two successful stints on the association's Executive Committee.

*Sherman has represented Champion Homes in South Carolina since 1983, building a base of loyal customers around the state. With the people skills that would make him welcome at any company and in any business, he's chosen to stick with our industry through times good and bad.

* He's devoted years of service to MHISC's key Membership Committee. Under his leadership, the association really hit its stride in growing the association's membership, building a healthy PAC (political war chest) and creating a tradition of super turn-out and support for our meetings.

The Hall of Fame Selection committee is composed of our Executive Committee and the members of the Hall of Fame. In other words, members who have been around and know who's for real in our industry.

They cited all the accomplishment above, but I sensed that the thing underlying what Sherman has achieved, the quality that makes him Hall of Fame material, is that Sherman Currin does business the right way. More than that, Sherman is one of the best, most consistent examples of how to treat your customers, how to be a friend, how to earn and keep the loyalty of the people you do business with, for decades.

Sherman is modest about all this. He told me that he was surprised and humbled by this honor and you can tell he means it.

But talk with him a while and you start to get a feel for why Mr. Currin inspires such loyalty from the dealers of South Carolina and why the association has turned to him repeatedly for sound leadership.

"I think what dealers are looking for is total support from me, whether it's formulating a future sale, working on service or dealing with an issue. I try keep things between them and our company on a smooth, even keel. I pay just as much attention when we're talking about a service issue as when the dealer is about to order a house."

Sherman believes that many customers choose to do business with a company based on the people involved as much as what it has to offer in terms of products or service.

"People are going to do business with companies and representatives they feel they can depend on," he says. "There are times when I can't give people the answer they want, but I want them to know that whatever I do say or promise, they can depend on it."

New Website!

2008-10-31T11:47:00.000-07:00

Check out the new http://www.mhisc.com/.

The MHISC Membership Directory, the current issue of Update magazine, MODern Times newsletter and all our most popular hand outs (fact sheets to help you stay legal and save money) are now on-line. Just click on "Publications" on the left of any page on www.mhisc.com.

Our "Publications" page is for members only. Members, just send me your name and email by clicking on the "Comments" pencil below and we'll send you the password.

Customers. There's lot of good information to draw potential buyers to our "Find A Home" page. Even before the upgrade, the old, original mhisc.com was the number one site on major search engines for manufactured home buyers in South Carolina.

Super Links Page for Members. Another tab on the left, "Related Links" is a huge time-save for everyone in the industry. You can find any state official, county official, license application form; order a SLED check; or reach any MHISC staffer--all on a single convenient page. The average member will be clicking on this page several times a week.

Accurate Information for State and Local Leaders. Government officials can now get immediate, positive and accurate information about our homes and how they are--and should be--regulated.

All the staff contributed to the website, which was created entirely in-house at very little cost. Special thanks go to Meredith Waldrop who quickly became an expert with "Dreamweaver" software and created a very professional website from scratch.

Jumpstarting the Rebound

2008-10-30T22:05:00.000-07:00

The MHISC Board met last Thursday to do some strategic planning for the future of our association and our industry.

Topics included:

>>> Ways to effectively run our local government / zoning program

>>> How to tackle the use of outdated terminology (such as mobile home) by
the media, public and in the industry

>>> Ideas to "jumpstart the rebound," that is, generate traffic and sales;
specifically in South Carolina

Some excellent ideas came out of the meeting. If you'd like a copy, please contact me at mdillard@mhisc.com.

MHISC's New Membership Services Director

2008-10-29T20:58:00.000-07:00

MHISC has a new staffer, Kristen Brown.

Kristen came aboard Monday as our Membership Services Director.

She has a great background for the job. Kristen worked for three years with the SC Association of CPA's. Immediately prior to coming to MHISC, she served as Executive Director of the SC Optometric Association.

Kristen reports that she likes the membership parts of association management the best, moreso than some of the functions such as lobbying. That's why she decided to come to MHISC. At the same time we'll get the benefit of the big picture perspective which she gained while working as an association executive director.

As Membership Services Director, Kristen will manage our meetings, be MHISC's lead liaison to our chapters, oversee important fund-raising efforts such as convention sponsorships and keeping our PAC flush with cash we can use to support political candidates who support the industry. She also puts together the membership directory and will oversee our efforts to grow the association with new members.

Kristen graduated from USC and lives in Lexington. She and her husband, Mark, have a beautiful 10-month-old daughter, Macy. Husband Mark works with another business association, the SC Dental Association.

Seriously....

2008-07-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

Would you like a cool Hawaiian shirt?

Seriously. My family won't let me wear them anywhere.

We had a wildest Hawaiian shirt contest for two years at the convention. The next convention we replaced the wildest shirt contest with the (best-forgotten) Thursday night limbo contest.

But some traditions are worth preserving. I still buy a new tropical shirt every year for the convention.

The item furthest back in the closet is a tropical number with palm trees, an orange sunset and Al Pacino. When I wore it to the restaurant afterwards, strangers kept coming up to me and saying "Say hallo to my little freend," which I found a bit disturbing.

My shirt for the second year's contest was entered as "Hawaiian Boys with Woodies."
The design was surfers and those station wagons with wood trim, called Woodies, that surfers used back in the day to carry their surfboards.

Shirt Three is a floral number in a cool faded red. Emalee says the color is pink and has made not-too-subtle insinuations.

This year's shirt, sort of a Hawaiian Mafia don number, almost didn't even make it to the reception at all. Daughter Amie suggested, very seriously, that I should go back to the room and change.

While we're giving away things, would you like a happy, playful dog? Or a cat?

Seriously, you can have one. Two or three even. Just don't tell my family. Tell them you came for a shirt. They'll like that.

Birthday Wisdom

2008-07-24T18:16:00.001-07:00

We celebrated Allen Hutto's 37th birthday this week. This may seem old to Allen. But I assured him that, based on my experiences, he has six or seven really good years ahead of him.

Great Old Traditions and Weird New Ideas

2008-07-19T21:31:00.000-07:00

Here are some cool moments from the convention that may not make it into the magazine.

Joe Manis dancing on his table after winning a $5000 prize at the Saturday night banquet.

Collecting photos of member tattoos for the Saturday night video show. Yep, that was my idea. Sorry.

Our tribute to the children we've watched grow up over the years at the convention. Some of the kids we saw at age five in the video came to the convention this year as newly-minted college graduates. Talk about a tradition.

The dealers who continue to support the convention year after year. Aiken Housing, Brothers Housing and Real Estate, Carolina Home Outlet, Central Carolina Homes, Congaree Home Center, Dixie-George Jones, Gaymon & Associates Custom Homes, Ledbetter Housing, Kent Gault MH, Manning Homes, Manufactured Housing Outlet, Sangaree Homes, South Carolina Homes, Tri-County Homes come to mind. First-timers like the McGougans who own Unlimited Home Solutions in Lugoff. Plus the GMs from an assortment of Clayton, LUV and Country Squire retail centers.

Checking out Wii exercize at the Westin's fitness center and discovering that it is basically the same thing as Guitar Hero, but using your feet.

Convention Day One: The Giant Bellman

2008-07-16T16:06:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 16. The Westin, Hilton Head Island

The Giant Bellman. It was hard to miss Gayle and Larry. The Garners were the first members I spotted today at the Westin. They caught my eye because a giant Jamaican bellman was giving them both a hug. He recognized them from last year's convention. Good people skills.

Gayle and Larry's company (Holiday Comfort) is in North Carolina but they are MHISC Convention loyalists. This will be their 20th straight MHISC convention.

The Surfer. Allen Hutto (MHISC's Local Government Affairs Director) went body surfing this afternoon. Impressive. He is an attorney and body surfer as well. I can't even regular surf. Oh admit it, Dillard. You can't water ski either.

The Jet Setter. I want to be Chip Smith when I grow up. Chip (Owner of Blue Ridge Log Cabins) called this afternoon. He can't come down Thursday but "I'll fly down Friday."

The Iron Man. You gotta appreciate Van Wells. He has too many transactions going to do the convention but he is driving down from Anderson--and back--to attend the Board of Director's meeting.

Coming Up Thursday:
The Other Mr. Buffet. The convention opens tomorrow, Thursday, with our Margaritaville Reception which will include a Margarita Fountain and a Cheeseburger in Paradise Station. The music, of course, will be Jimmy Buffet. You'll see a lot of members in Hawaiian shirts having a laid-back good time.

The First Convention Was the Worst

2008-07-11T17:50:00.000-07:00

Next week's convention will be my 16th with MHISC.

The first one was the worst. I'd worked for the association for two weeks and knew about five members.

What I didn't know was MHISC had a cherished tradition back in the Nineties: "Nobody Listens on Friday Night."

I grabbed the microphone and introduced myself to the crowd and told a couple of jokes.

Nobody laughed. Not one single person. Nobody listened either. Everybody just kept talking.

"These people hate me," I thought. "Hate at first sight."

There's only one thing to do, I realized. "On Monday when we get back to Columbia, I'll just quietly resign," I told myself.

By the third convention I had wised up and delegated the Friday night announcements to the Chair.

These days we've got it down to a science. Give us four or five minutes and you'll see a short snappy presentation backed by music and a Powerpoint show.

First Federal sponsored the Friday night reception and paid a good bit of money for the privilege. That money helps us put on a great convention and to keep registration fees down. I know you'll want to give them the courteous reception they deserve.

Then John Polk and Todd Hiott will present the golf awards. I think the winners all deserve our attention and a nice round of applause. I'm impressed with anybody who can play a good round of golf.

My personal sports goal is to break 100---in both directions. Break 100 going downward in golf and 100 going up in bowling.