‘Everyone Seemed on Board-Then Suddenly MHI Not Interested.’ Another Tipster Doc Drop on ‘MHI Torpedoed’ GoRVing Style MHVille Campaign. DOZENS of MH Industry Pros Reveal. Randy Rowe Connection? FEA
The bulk of two more documents with apparent ties to individuals in the Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI) orbit are provided on what was reportedly attempted and what occurred to ‘torpedo’ an effort to foster organic growth of sales (and thus production) in the manufactured housing industry. For those who may not have seen the prior reporting on this topic, an effort was made to get a GoRVing style marketing/image building campaign launched for the manufactured housing industry. One brief document included the following quotes. “…Everyone seemed on board until we had the discussion about how this would be paid for. Of course, the RV industry uses “fees” from the sale of units to pay for the marketing. We had a few community owners and retailers assist in developing a budget based on first year sales of 100,000 units using the RV model. Suddenly, MHI was not interested. They made it clear that MHI does this today with the “fees” they receive. I’m not sure about you, but when’s the last time you saw a national, regional, or local TV station promoting our industry? It was obvious to not only me, but many in the group that MHI was concerned a portion of their income might be at risk. During our last call with the group, Lesli…got crossway…” That reference would be to MHI CEO Lesli Gooch and that quoted remark is similar to this previously published in a report linked here: “If MHI [i.e.: the Manufactured Housing Institute] was not involved, why not? If so, why aren’t they the “voice” to the American public? They seem to be doing an admirable job promoting MH to the governing bodies in Washington, but what about Mr. & Mrs. America beyond the D.C. city limits?” [Bold added]. From another tip to MHProNews in the report linked here: “The big opposition to our last go-around on this was Lesli @ MHI. Here’s my “personal feelings” on their position…Leslie [SIC] had asked to be involved and, in my opinion, only to find out more about what was being done and who was part of the movement…Although certain individuals from the “3-C’s” were invited (“decision makers”) to join us, that never happened. Again, in my opinion, someone was torpedoing the group.” In the recent MHProNews report linked here is the PowerPoint presentation that included Lesli Gooch, Jen Hall, Jim Ayotte and moderator Ken Corbin. It is with those elements in mind, and noting that MHI leaders have been invited to respond to these evidence-based allegations but have those far failed to do so, that the following information from documents linked below have been provided to MHProNews. Those documents include the names of dozens of professionals, most if not all of whom are in the MHI orbit, who were involved in the discussions and efforts.
Notice that in the list of participants that follow are multiple individuals who are clearly in leadership at MHI, or are in the MHI orbit and/or are bloggers or publishers with ties to MHI. How many of those parties have published their experience or otherwise reported about these topics? Little or nothing as of 3:30 PM ET on 2.4.2026. Further note that even though MHProNews has now previously published 3 reports in less than a month on this developing probe, none of those sources have specifically mentioned these revelations or issues.
These previews from Part II #7.
The Pattern of “Tease and Abandon”
There is a documented, multi-decade pattern of MHI leaders and members “teasing” national recovery plans that ultimately “go nowhere.”
…
The Importance of “Part I”: This document is a “smoking gun” because it proves that MHI is capable of discussing and planning a national awareness campaign but has actively chosen to “sabotage” or “throttle” it to protect the “moats” of its largest members.
MHProNews notes the “Randy Rowe” connection and much more will be explained in Part II #7 is related to his “Five Point Plan.” There is still more to be discovered in Part II #7-9, some of which could play a part in evolving legislation, advocacy, and antitrust activities in the industry.
“Analytical journalism is the highest style of journalism.” Diana Dutsyk. “…the personal courage of the journalist is important, he should not be afraid to go against the bosses, should not call white black. He [the analytical journalist- cannot distort the truth.”
Part I. MHProNews notes that the information that follows is from the tipster’s document linked further below. The views reflected in the document are those of others and should not be construed as the views of MHProNews. More on the MHProNews and other sources on what follows is in Part II.
January 12, 2023
1-14-23 CALL NOTES
The purpose of the final call before Louisville was to discuss what strategies & communication can continue to gain momentum. These type discussions have occurred many times over the past 30-40 years with no results.
Items brought up as a focus included:
Home Sales & Lead Generation
Engage Community Leaders
Awareness of What We Offer
Quality of the Product
Consumer Testimonials
Government Planning & Zoning
The RV Industry has “some” similarities, but not all to MH
Comments during the call
Question becomes from attendees: What’s in it for me?
What’s everyone’s perspective of what’s important?
Develop questionnaire to be handed out after the 1/19 program
Need to engage more big players (communities, lenders, retailers & mfg’s)
1/17 Luncheon will have Darren, Chris, Ken & Spencer at front table
What’s the strategy AFTER Louisville to move forward?
Comments after the call
We aren’t selling enough homes is not the program:
Local zoning is
Inaccurate perception of home quality is
Misunderstanding of community quality is
Discriminatory housing policy is
—-highly recommend that the campaign not address modulars. —-say this because as a state that has a very robust modular presence (factories and retail outlets) the modular industry does not want to be included with mfg homes – some get downright belligerent about it. This is despite their primary retail outlet is mfg housing retailers and 99% of “street retailers” in the NE sell mods on the same sales center as mfg homes. If a program is successful, it will drive traffic to the sales center, then we can leave it up to the retailer to sell the right home to the customer – sadly mods get the benefit without any skin in the game.
— had the feeling that the participants have many different ideas on the purpose of the National MH Awareness Campaign. That is not necessarily a negative, but it does create difficulty in uniting all parties on a clear and concise message. — feel the most important item that must first be agreed upon is: “what is the goal of the Campaign.
Jennifer Hall, Jim Ayotte, Ken Corbin & Lesli Gooch (the Louisville presenters) will be doing a review of their upcoming 1/19/23 session that will include both PowerPoint and video. It’s also in preparation for the 1/12/23 call with all members.
All members are invited to attend and receive an update on 3 key topics:
Update on 1/19/23 session in Louisville from the presenters with your final thoughts.
Update on the “Big 3” and who will be present during the 1/19/23 session to support the national program.
Update on new members each of you have invited. PLEASE send—-their name, company, and email addresses (in advance) so they can be added to the distribution list.
January 17th @ 2pm Eastern – IN PERSON MEETING / LUNCHEON: All members are invited to attend. —will be sending out RSVP’s next week so please look at your calendar. We’re also looking for sponsors for the luncheon at only $150 per company and we’ll make sure you’re promoted very well.
QUESTION: Should we make an announcement to the show attendees about the luncheon to gain more interest? Of course they would also need to RSVP in advance.
Kurt Kelley 12-28-22
Wow. It looks like there may finally be some traction on an MH Industry enhancement project. That’s good news. Is there a way to get the $50/floor added into manufacturer invoices? Any thoughts on what % of all MH production that may commit? I’m sure there will be some smaller manufacturers that don’t participate but do plan to enjoy the benefits of the campaign.
This committee sounds like some work and effort, but it appears to be an investment that will have a great ROI, too. Yes, I’ll join. Thoughts:
Produce 15, 30, 60 second video spots – all industry players can add these to their websites and You-Tube channels
Podcast audio versions to distribute – good bang for ad buck. Include podcasts that prospective home buyers and home improvers listen to
Seek contributions from state associations who should be able to get Boards with community owners and retailers on them to agree to kick in some money. Recommend a formula for giving – ex. $10/home site/ member
December 24, 2022
Louisville MH Awareness Presenters & Notes
Here are the highlights of the 12/22 call. The current presenters for the 1/19/23 program @ Louisville include:
At this point we are waiting for confirmation as to which of the BIG 3 will make a brief statement during the presentation supporting the campaign. Until that time we will keep the initial presenters (Jennifer, Jim & Lesli) in place.
Kevin Clayton (via Ramsey Cohen), Mark Yost (via Byron Stroud) and Bill Boor (via Dustin Ewing) are being asked to speak briefly (approx. 5 minutes). We all understand the importance of their support. If any of these are unavailable, we’ll try and get as high a member of their teams as possible.
Ultimately, the goal is to exhibit how a national campaign can assist communities, retailers, manufacturers, lenders etc. in the following ways:
Why MH is the answer to the “Affordable Housing Crisis”
How MH can give you the “Lifestyle” you’ve always wanted but never thought you could afford
Advertising, marketing materials and video for communities & retailers to use at their location
Development materials and video for communities & retailers to use at both the local and state level.
Sales / Community leads for retailers, communities & developers in their market.
At this point, the program will include both a PowerPoint presentation and video from each of the panelists.
Ken Corbin (5 minutes) – Introduction and brief history including some of the data we’ve reviewed on why the national RVIA campaign has been so successful (and how it can relate to the MH biz).
Lesli Gooch (10 minutes) – On what is happening on a national basis in Washington and how the “Awareness” campaign will help.
Jim Ayotte (10 minutes) – Overview of how the FMHA has been successful in helping communities work with government on issues including zoning, development etc.
Jennifer Hall (10 minutes) – Examples of how today’s MH has changed the perspectives of customers / residents and their lives. Also, how their marketing efforts have produced “in-fill” projects in their state.
This will allow an additional 15-20 for representatives of the BIG 3 to speak.
One final Zoom call will be with the presenters on Thursday, Jan 10th @ 4pm EST / 3pm Central. Between now and then everyone presentation will be completed and ready for review.
Additional Notes
It’s absolutely essential that each member of our current group (of 23 members) get at least 3 additional key people in our industry to join and support this effort.
By doing so, you can help us grow by upwards of 70 members. This can include major communities, REIT’s, developers, retailers, lenders etc. and can be done in two ways:
Join our next Zoom call on Thursday, Jan 12th at 4pm EST / 3pm CST which is about one week prior to the show. (that invite is forthcoming)
Meet us in Louisville on Tuesday, Jan 17th @ 2pm for a pre-show meeting. Final arrangements are being made at this time and we’ll need “solid” RSVP’s as a luncheon is tentatively planned. (we hope to have those arrangements done by Friday, Jan 6th). We are also looking for sponsors for the luncheon!
We’re in the home stretch. Please do all you can to continue to support this effort.
If you haven’t read George Allen’s latest on-line blog, please do so. He brings up some solid points on our effort.
Finally, welcome Rick Rand of Great Value Homes in Wisconsin. He’s been a great friend for over 30 years and will certainly support us. RickRand@gvhinc.net
December 15, 2022
Call Participants & Notes
All current members of the committee are listed below and the 12/15/22 callers are highlighted in yellow:
Highlights of the 12/15/22 call include the following (and please let me know if I’ve missed anyone or failed to mention any key take-a-ways):
It seems the group agrees that “Awareness & Lifestyle” is more important than “Image” as a promotion.
Jennifer Hall discussed their video testimonials highlighting how customers love their manufactured home has been a huge success
Jim Ayotte mentioned the importance of communicating to govt officials to promote new communities in their area
Ken Corbin said when all is said and done the participants will want to know, “What’s in it for me?”
Lesli Gooch said we should focus how we offer the today’s family a “modern home” vs a “fixer upper” for the same price.
Lance Latham mentioned how they promote, “You don’t have to give up the life you want for the home you want.”
Amy Bliss mentioned the importance of the “Value proposition / Investment” to overcome any stereotypes.
Logan Hanes mentioned “Lifestyle” is important to tie into the program.
Spencer Roane mentioned the importance of communities and how we need to address many of the actual “old trailer parks” that still exist today with high tensity, owners that don’t care that produce negative media.
Byron Stroud announced that Mark Yost will be doing a keynote address right after our program. Although he had to leave the call, —have a message into him to see if Mark is available for a few minutes to join the panel and support the effort.
Chris Nicely said the final presenters in Louisville need to be decided so they can begin a presentation and perhaps add a “key” major manufacturer executive to show their support.
George Allen stressed the importance to keeping the program laser focused and the need to get some of the “Big C’s” and large community portfolio exec’s on board asap. (I’ll add that since Louisville is more community driven, this is an excellent idea)
— also have a note into Ramsey to see if Kevin can do the same on behalf of Clayton.
Summary 1: The following individuals will be on the Jan 19th Louisville panel: Jim Ayotte, Jennifer Hall, Lesli Gooch (panelists) and Ken Corbin (moderator). A discussion will be held to see who also should be invited.
The goal is to excite the attendees about the opportunities a national campaign brings to the table. The program must have lots of excitement and interest to gain everyone’s support. This may be our one big opportunity.
As—mentioned earlier, —- believe everyone will want to know, “What’s in it for me?” We recognize all the answers won’t be there, but we can certainly give them enough of the cake for them to want more; if not it all.
Summary 2: There will be final Zoom call on Thursday; Jan 12th at 4pm EST / 3pm CST which is about one week prior to the show. An invitation will be sent out the week of Dec 19th.
Summary 3: Although there was some pushback about a pre-show luncheon on Tue, Jan 17th —am going to move forward. My plan is for 2pm at the Crowne Plaza and—hope to have those arrangements done the week of the 19th as well.
—-now many of you may not be able to attend, but most of the major players (communities, retailers, executive directors and manufacturers) will be arriving or already there. It would be great to get their support prior to the formal announcement.
Finally: Thanks George Allen for mentioning a teaser about the program in today’s blog. It’s much appreciated!
Chris Nicely 12-12-22
—-appreciate being a part of the conversation. Here are some immediate notes up for discussion. Several takeaways for me, and items up for discussion about an industry image improvement campaign.
the problem to be attacked must be defined
this is a long term commitment
target is diverse in itself – municipal, consumer, industry – one size does not fit all
there will be some players in the industry that will not want to engage (happy with perceptions and status quo)
communications must be directed to diverse markets, served with different products (see elementary matrix below – can get even more complex with regional differences)
how the homes are built may be secondary – to the message of the potential reality of home ownership
reinforcement of the decision to own a manufactured home, can be reinforced with process, branded component, value, appreciation
major industry manufacturing player support are in, dependent upon direction taken, and process
need buy in from large community players also
increased cost will always be an issue; never to be taken lightly; even $50/floor on a $100K house
inclusion is key – how do we represent all facets on the leadership/directional aspect of the process, while keeping the directional task force manageable
Product/Market Matrix
Side note:
RVIA has a cost of $33/unit to support a $20M annual spend. If we applied $50/floor, it would generate approx $5M/yr.
Ken Corbin 12-12-22
Spoke with Courtney Bias to follow up on questions asked during our 12-8-22 call:
The current promotion is an “up-funded awareness campaign” to let consumers know all the different ways an RV can become an integral part of their vacation.
It’s a national campaign designed to help not only the large retailers, but small market firms as well.
Dealers / Campgrounds pay $250 per year to have access to the leads generated that can be downloaded from the website.
They’ve received no negative kick-back from firms in smaller markets as they’ll generally reach out farther for potential customers and obviously have less competition.
Members also have availability to professionally produced tie-in ads available on the RVIA portal with a tag at the end for dealers, campgrounds, associations (and their ad agencies) to add their name & contact information
Promo materials and information is also provided for special events, shows etc. all geared to the “Go On A Real Vacation” theme.
It’s exciting to hear Cavco, Clayton and Skyline/Champion all have an interest in the project. Everyone agrees our job it to keep the momentum going.
The next call is scheduled for Thursday; December 15th @ 4pm EST / 3pm CST to include the following items:
Tuesday, Jan 17th luncheon in Louisville to bring people together who should be part of the group and:
Location of luncheon
How to pay for lunch and plan for how many?
Challenges & opportunities
Discuss who should present as part of the Louisville Jan 19th panel to introduce the vision to the attendees:
They can then begin preparation for the 45 +/- minute program
Is this an Image, Awareness, Lead Generation or ??? campaign
One recommendation for heads of the “Big 3” to be available to announce their support of such a campaign
Follow up to the 12/8/22 call with comments & suggestions
Ken Corbin 12-6-22
Spoke with Courtney Bias, Director of Strategic Marketing & Communications at the RVIA about their newest marketing program (Go On A Real Vacation):
Using two agencies:
FCB Chicago – Creative
Universal McCann Detroit – Media buys
Strongly suggest we use an agency search consulting firm to help find the best group to work with. They used Pile and Company of Boston: https://pileandcompany.com/ and Meghan McDonnell is their contact. She strongly recommends.
Annual budgets range from $15 – $22 million. 2023 will be smaller than 2022.
Focus is, “Who is our audience & lifestyle?”
They realize the “brand” is not as important as the experience. Most consumers don’t recognize manufacturers (rare exceptions are companies like Airstream and Winnebago). Even then, it’s limited.
RV Seals are the primary driver for funding the campaign and participation differs based on the type; park model, towable, motor home etc.
Digital advertising today is the best bang for the buck as TV broadcast is up as much as 40% since 2020
6-10-15 second video spots are very effective
Paid search & social media also does well
Find your target audiences and don’t shotgun advertising
They’re even marketing to African American and LGBTQ groups in their media
Look at the “Path to Purchase” to help determine what/where to market
Today’s RV buyers think the units will look like their uncles (much like MH)
They’ve learned unique venues such as concerts, food festivals and air shows are a great way to promote the industry and gather interest
Don’t spend lots on RV shows are they’re already going to look at the product.
Print ads (with QR codes) are also down as fewer magazines are surviving
2021 results (also listed on their website)
1 billion+ media impressions.
600k+ units delivered (up 19% from previous record).
9+ million intend to buy over the next 5 years.
Ken Corbin 11-20-22
Below are the notes (most recent first) of our conversations to date. Also, you’ll note this email is being send to everyone who has participated in the thread or indicated an interest. Here is the current list. If anyone is missing or data is incorrect, please let—-know.
MH.com serves over 400 retailers, about 50 communities/groups, 15 state associations a few lenders. Over 40 people (with decades of MH experience) are focused on MH (mods and manufactured), delivering thousands of leads monthly to the biggest and smallest brands in our industry.
On the issue of markets, my opinion is the markets for factor- built housing is increasingly divergent and will require similar but different efforts, with overlapping messaging, but some different imagery. It’s not so much separating retail vs community, but higher end homes for a more affluent buyer, developer, etc and an affordable/attainable market. And ADU is yet another sperate market. But all can have similar tone, look and messaging –
George Allen 11-19-22
Relative to ‘promoting the industry’, I’ve always kept the various housing type ‘players’ separate in my mind and writing by referring to the overall landscape as being ‘factory-built housing’, with HUD-Code manufactured housing or just manufactured housing, and then modular housing and ‘tiny houses’ (latter a.k.a. ADUs (accessory dwelling units) as subsets of factory-built housing. Hope this helps.
Spencer Roane 11-19-22
I REALLY like that MHA website! SO much useful, clearly presented content.
Thinking about our task of promoting “the industry”, does “manufactured” include modular & tiny homes, both built to different codes than HUD homes?
Tom Lackey 11-19-22
The Michigan advertising program does a nice job of being generic on brand and placement – yet promotes the industry very well. You might want to check out what they are doing – their website hosts several of these short videos.
Spencer Roane 11-19-22
Yes Chris, I can view that link. Very, very nice and professional!
To get the support of ALL segments of the industry for a promotion/image campaign, I think we’re going to have to feature BOTH the more expensive homes (I assume none in the video cost less than $200k) and the community series homes we typically buy (and sell) for $50-100k. Would that need to be a separate video? Are these segments mutually exclusive? Does promoting one hurt the other – or the industry?
Chris Nicely 11-18-22
This is in advance of when MH.com was going to start sharing, but, I wanted you all to see the Why MH? video campaign we have been working on and are planning to release nationwide, through the web, social media and conferences, very soon. Jim Ayotte mentioned we have been producing industry promoting videos for our state association clients as part of the general content creation process for their web sites and more. This is a video of an overriding campaign. Would enjoy your comments.
—talked with MHI previously and they were unable to attend Wednesday’s call, although they’ve indicated an interest.
—been putting together everyone’s comments on a thread and will forward it over the weekend.
Lance Latham of Alabama has spoke to other Executive Directors across the country and will continue to keep not only them, but all of us updated on the progress of the campaign.
Hopefully, —hear back from FCB Chicago on Monday or Tuesday as—spoke to them “briefly” and followed up with an email. —also have a call into Ron Breymier in Indiana as he’s part of the RV industry and indicated he may have additional contact(s) on their marketing plan.
When — speak with Ramsey @ CMH, — ask him to forward notes on his conversations with Clayton mgt. As—previously mentioned, they showed a desire to learn more about the direction of the project. He indicated it was a positive meeting.
—must say this has been an exciting few weeks as the entire team has taken this issue farther than previous attempts. Let’s keep the momentum going!
Dustin Ewing 11-18-22
We also need to get MHI involved.
Chris Nicely 11-18-22
Looking forward to the opportunity to announce interest levels at Louisville, we should be in a position to announce a committee with representatives from each of these companies, to keep this moving forward. Possibly suggest Patrick Revere as a committee member too.
—think about Spencer’s comments of the entire industry and might suggest UMH, ELS and others representing the big community stakeholders (also possible funders) to SECO.
Any other thoughts?
Jim Ayotte 11-18-22
Dustin – That is excellent news. I suggest Cavco, Clayton and Champion get plugged in on the front end. Their input and buy-in is essential on the vision, scope, budget, and funding.
Dustin Ewing 11-18-22
I have spoken with both Cavco and Champion regarding the nation ad campaign. They are not only interested in doing a national ad campaign to improve the image of MH, but they have both expressed being a part of all of it.
They both are wanting more information on this. I have informed them that we are just gathering everyone’s interest level at this point and we will move forward based on that. It sounds like we should start having some more discussions on this as soon as we have an idea of costs.
Spencer Roane 11-16-22
Thank you, Chris. Here are few of my thoughts:
The promotional program in Michigan over the past 10-15 years is the best model I’m aware of that should be duplicated by other MHAs. Collection of funds (floor dues), development & content of promotional material, allocation of promotional expenses, and ensuring satisfaction by all segments of the industry are hurdles they cleared that other MHAs cite as objections. Several of us in GA. suggested GMHA copy this program and were met w/ objections to raising floor dues. I’ve added long-time MI community owner, retailer, and MMHA board member, Tom Lackey, to this thread for his insight and suggestions.
Could some of the floor dues currently paid to MHI and state MHAs be diverted to this program.
While mfgs. are certainly a key segment of the MH industry, they are only one of five. While they collect floor dues, they are only a conduit for dues which are paid by retailers (including community owners) who buy the homes which include a line item for floor dues. Taking this one step farther, floor dues are technically paid by the actual buyers of our homes.
MH sales leads generated by a national image/advertising program will be the primary motivation for all segments of the industry to support and participate in the program.
have overcome pandemic-related labor & supply shortages, are back to 6-8 week production, and are selling homes at prices significantly higher than pre-pandemic. They seem very anxious to increase sales volume and would seem to be very supportive of an image/promotional program that would accomplish that. While Clayton has dominant market share, others (primarily Champion) may support this program more aggressively.
We must recognize two home segments in the industry: “big box” homes that the industry likes to promote as competition for site-built, and smaller “community series” homes more commonly promoted as “affordable housing”. George Allen is a pioneer in this latter series of homes. I’ve added him to this thread.
The RV/MH Hall of Fame recently completed a massive MH museum funded primarily by the Scoular family (community owners in South Dakota) and may be able to help promote the MH industry. Tom Landgrebe is the creative drive behind the new museum and is now a commission-compensated employee of RV/MH HoF. He may have some thoughts on a promotional program. I’ve added Jim Scoular and Darryl Searer and Ryan Szklarek w/ the museum to this thread.
Instead of viewing Tiny Homes as siphoning off MH sales, we might find that excitement and demand for Tiny Homes could significantly help increase MH sales (my personal experience is that many buyers want larger tiny homes – hence small HUD homes).
Chris Nicely 11-16-22
During our conversation today Ken asked where we go from here. Here is a summary of activities that should be on the radar, including Dustin’s comments about budget funding.
Panel outcome:
Reinforce that battling the stereotypes is still an issue
Present that there is a need now more than ever for MH
present and confirm the demand is there and will continue (Millennials and GenX, as Boomers wane).
Organize a committee to push further after Louisville (add others)
Engage major brands to get buy in and support – no discussion of funding
Formulate proposal/plan/guide/idea book
National look
State look
Governmental
Receive proposal from potential vendors to formulate annual budget
Funding architecture for support ongoing, on national, state and a governmental basis.
The order may be different, and priority may be different. It seems we need to know where we are going before we can discuss proposals and budget.
It’s unlikely Ramsey Cohen from CMH will join the call, although he’s had preliminary talks with management. I’ll ask him to summarize for the group. He did indicate they have an interest.
Everyone agrees one of the keys is getting the “3 C’s” to work together on the project. Dustin Ewing will reach out to Mark Yost from Skyline/Champion and Bill Boor at Cavco.
Ken has spoken briefly to FCB Chicago who is the lead on the current RV promotion and hopes to have a 2nd call over the next week or so. Also spoke with Ron Breymier of Indiana who (like Michigan) is also part of the RV association. He’s also trying to get us contacts on their marketing program.
Dustin Ewing suggested some of the items we would like to discuss are:
Costs to promote
Split on TV, social media, Marketing etc.
What their firm would include
What does a National Campaign look like
Florida has a successful MH campaign in place and Jim Ayotte discussed:
Costs have dropped with social media marketing
30% of net shipment dues go to this effort
Currently spending approximately $300k
Leads obtained are distributed to the FMHA members
The dues are being passed onto the consumer and no one party is absorbing the cost
Chris Nicely had the following comments:
He’s meeting with the “Property Brothers” from HGTV later today (they might be an ideal media spokesperson)
He’s made several notes and will share these with everyone by tomorrow
Homes on the Hill had an excellent reception and only enforces the need to educate government officials
Spencer Roane discussed what Bill and Beth has done in Michigan
Approximately 20 years ago they began a marketing campaign that has been very successful
A dollar amount is added to each floor to fund the project
We need to look at their program. It could be an excellent model
Summary
We need to battle the stereotypes our industry faces. The demand is there, and the opportunity is now. We can do this by engaging all the brands and bringing together all facets of our industry including:
Communities
Retailers
Manufacturers
Lenders
Suppliers
Focus on the message
October 13, 2022
Call Participants
Chris Nicely <chris@manufacturedhomes.com>; Darren Krolewski <darren@datacompusa.com>; Ken Corbin ken@callkencorbin.com, George Ewing <gewing@tammac.com>; Lance Latham <llatham@alamha.org>
Ken Corbin – Notes
The purpose of the call was to discuss what WE can do to enhance our image to the public. An initial panel was put together who are part of this email. In addition, I’ll cc Leslie & Mark from MHI and Trisha Le (Louisville Show Coordinator). I do not have the business email addresses for Brent Cappaert or Mark Weiss from MHAAR. For those original panel members unable to attend the Zoom call and the added participants, here’s what was discussed.
The discussions began by looking back at what the RV industry has done over the past 28 years including
Amounts spent on advertising & promotion
Results
They collect a portion of each RVIA Label that goes to funding their “Go-Rving” and “Go on A Real Vacation” campaigns
There is a definite need for the MH industry to do something along the same line, but:
Who will pay for it?
There’s been numerous discussions on this in the past. While most everyone agreed it’s the thing to do, it ends up with no sustainable action / investment
The keys are getting the following groups to buy-into the program
Manufacturers
Communities
Lenders
Retailers
State Associations
We’ll need additional input to continue the efforts including:
An “Image Group” needs to be formed after getting more feedback
Start with the state associations executives or someone they designate as a representative
Please send Lance Latham from Alabama llatham@alamha.org (by Monday; Oct 17th) two questions that he will be forwarding to the state exec’s
The questions will be broken down and sent out by Lance by Friday; Oct 21st
MHI and MHAAR need to be part of the discussions
Send out surveys to all Louisville & Biloxi attendees
Budget & Platforms
At $25 per floor, we’re talking about $3.5 to $4 million based on 2022 projections
This is definitely not a one company project and discussions will need to include who/whom will oversee the project
The RV industry focuses on the following:
National TV
Satellite Radio
Print
Social Media
Eventually a “Theme” will need to be put together (ie: Go Rving) for the campaign
We’ll have at least one or two more calls prior to Louisville to discuss
Additional feedback & suggestions
Fine tune the panel to address the Louisville show attendees
Prepare the presentation included Q&A
Over the next two weeks, please send—your suggestions and comments on the matter. —will put these together, forward the data to everyone and set up the next Zoom call.
Amy Bliss <amy@housingalliance.us>; Brad Russell <brussell@spartanhomes.ms>; Chris Nicely <chris@manufacturedhomes.com>;
<darren@datacompusa.com>; Darryl Searer <dlsearer@aol.com>; Dustin Ewing <dustin@kentuckydreamhomes.com>; George Allen <gfa7156@aol.com>; George Ewing <gewing@tammac.com>; Glenn Esterson glenn.esterson@marcusmillichap.com>; Kurt Kelley kurt@mobileagency.com>;
Jennifer Hall <jenhall@msmmha.com>; Jim Ayotte <jayotte@fmha.org>; John Gainer johngainer@legacyhousingcorp.com; Katerina Stepanova <katerina.kfs@gmail.com>; Ken Corbin ken@callkencorbin.com; Lance Latham <llatham@alamha.org>; Lesli Gooch <LGooch@mfghome.org>; Logan Hanes <lhanes@kmhi.org>; Maria Horton <maria@newportpacific.com>; Mark Bowersox <mbowersox@mfghome.org>; Paul Schierholz <paul@broadmoormortgage.com>; Ramsey Cohen <Ramsey.Cohen@ClaytonHomes.com>; Rick Rand <RickRand@gvhinc.net>;
Spencer Roane <spencer@roane.com>; <tlandgrebe@gmail.com>; Tom Lackey <tom@ablehousing.com>; Trisha Le <showways.tl@gmail.com>;
— MHProNews notes that the tipster’s document that produced the above is linked here. A modest number of items — were edited out as it might have helped someone identify a possible source. Yellow highlighting in the original did not get cut-and-pasted into the above. —
2) Editorially speaking, MHProNews would take issue with some of the remarks in the above (or for that matter, in prior tips on this topic). What makes this and other documents on this topic of interest is not that they necessarily agree with or confirm prior MHProNews/MHLivingNews reporting (although that in various specific instances could be true). What makes the above or others like it linked above of interest to MHVille is that they are apparently genuine information from within the MHI orbit that third-party AIs (see the reports linked above and the third-party FEA checks of each) have validated as apparently authentic.
3) For example. When part of the above said the following.
Chris Nicely 11-19-22
MH.com serves over 400 retailers, about 50 communities/groups, 15 state associations a few lenders. Over 40 people (with decades of MH experience) are focused on MH (mods and manufactured), delivering thousands of leads monthly to the biggest and smallest brands in our industry.
a) Nicely is formerly with Clayton Homes. MHProNews has previously reported that Nicely, and some others that have left Berkshire Hathaway (BRK) owned Clayton Homes or one of their related firms, are arguably part of the “Claytonization” of manufactured housing.
c) ManufacturedHomes.com and MHVillage.com are arguably both supposed to primarily be promotional or marketing sites. While they may offer their version of ‘news,’ their focus is largely on lead generation, marketing, and sales support. That begs questions. If those sites, and those that have been built to support state associations are doing so well, why is there no apparent growth in manufactured home shipments?New manufactured housing production totals in the U.S. are lower today than 2021. Isn’t that a rather problematic reflection on brands – i.e.: ManufacturedHomes.com and MHVillage.com – that are supposed to be promoting the industry’s growth?
2013
60,228
2014
64,334
2015
70,544
2016
81,136
2017
92,902
2018
96,555
2019
94,615
2020
94,390
2021
105,772
2022
112,882
2023
89,169
2024
103,314
2025
102,738
According to Google’s AI overview, the first blog post on ManufacturedHomes.com is February 2013. Thus, the years shown in the table above. It took 8 years to move from 60,228 (2013) to 105,772 (2021) new homes produced. Four years later (2021 to 2025) the production is now down to 102,738? Do you see the problem with that recent pattern?
That’s despite ManufacturedHomes.com, and others in that pro-MHI orbit, touting the development of multiple state-level manufactured home promotional sites. Indeed, multiple states sold fewer homes in 2025 than they did in 2024.
4) To further illustrate the disparity between manufactured housing production/shipment trends and other professions, see the reports linked above and below.
5) As MHProNews previously reported, manufactured housing outsold RVs in the mid-to-late 1990s. But that changed due in part to the RVIA’s GoRVing campaign. The point? Several. In no particular order of importance.
a) If MHI were serious about industry growth, why didn’t they push ahead with the campaign being requested by dozens in the MHI orbit?
b) If ManufacturedHomes.com and MHVillage.com are doing such a great job, why is it that the industry’s recovery stalled at around 100,000 annual shipments a year in recent years? From 2016-2025 there have been 973,473 new HUD Code homes produced. That’s 97,473 homes per year on average. The industry has yet to recover to the levels of 2004, when then MHI president and CEO Chris Stinebert said there would be a recovery back to the previous levels experienced. That didn’t happen. In 2015, Richard “Dick” Jennison told dozens of industry pros in video-recorded remarks at Louisville that the industry could “get there” to 500,000 new homes a year. A decade has come and gone, and the industry is just a bit above 20 percent of what Jennison said was possible.
c) Kevin Clayton’s name was dropped in that discussion in Part I. Why didn’t Clayton follow through with his statement that the industry was ready to do a national image campaign in 2011?
6) There are few if any beyond MHProNews/MHLivingNews that have reported on what has been called ‘The Roper Report.’ The Roper Report was a project commissioned by the Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI) circa 2004 which had results revealed in 2005. The ostensible plan was quite similar to what the ‘MH Awareness’ project discussed in Part I by those dozens of professionals, many if not most of whom have apparent ties to MHI and/or an MHI linked state association. The findings of the MHI commissioned Roper Report were sobering on the one hand but also promising on the other. Supposedly, the Roper organization had never studied an industry that had such a problematic reputation as manufactured housing. That in itself is a significant finding which is arguably a poor reflection on MHI, which claims to represent “all segments” of the factory-built housing industry. When MHI makes the kinds of claims that it does, those words they claim have consequences.
b) Note that left-leaning MS Bing’s AI powered Copilot spoke of “narrative control” multiple times in the above. Note to that Copilot, which like other AIs are known for ‘behavioral pattern recognition,’ also noted under “Ethical Governance” that “A true “institute” should educate and inform, not obscure or manipulate its own record” (bold added). That noted, the following articles included the MHI PowerPoint by their late communications VP Savage, plus other MHI member references to the Roper Report. Two articles on Roper (the first and the last) are complimented by yet another article on David Roden, who has been associated with SECO for years. Roden called on Lesli Gooch and MHI to launch a GoRVing style image/educational campaign too.
MHProNews has advocated from our earliest days, and this author in articles for the MH Merchandiser years before MHProNews was ‘born,’ that education and image building were both necessary for industry growth. Frankly, in hindsight, it was naïve to think that the industry’s leaders did not realize this too. Indeed, not only had they seen it in articles by Lavin, Kovach, or others, but also in reports like the one they commissioned from Roper. Let’s sum that up for clarity. There is simply no way that MHI and their corporate leadership were unaware of the realities of what was necessary to tap into potentially millions of more buyers. Additionally, MHI leaders could not be unaware of what the behaviors were that contributed to creating negative perceptions. When someone realizes that MHI member brands are often the ones stirring up the bad news reports about the industry, one must objectively wonder. Is MHI both ignoring the right things to do, as well as deliberately doing or tolerating wrong behaviors that each effectively limit the industry? https://www.manufacturedhomepronews.com/manufactured-housing-institute-mhis-roper-report-aarp-marty-lavin-strike-again-plus-manufactured-housing-stock-updates/https://www.manufacturedhomepronews.com/masthead/rest-of-story-residents-media-complain-rhp-properties-on-evictions-discrimination-stiff-hikes-havenpark-communities-named-where-is-manufactured-housing-institutes-code/ Note: Havenpark, per a source, is no longer an MHI member, but the reason for that is unclear. If Havenpark was booted by MHI, why are others who are engaged in similar behavior tolerated? Or did Havenpark’s leaders, after fact checks like this one, figure out that it simply didn’t make sense to stay a member of MHI and they just left the national association on their own?
c) These developments may become front-and-center items as the national class action antitrust suit develops. Multi-year MHI member Murex has reportedly ‘rolled over’ in making a deal with the plaintiffs in the case. A motion on that point relative to Murex is pending with the court.
f) It must be stressed for the sake of balance and accuracy that these facts-evidence-analysis (FEA) points are not intended to suggest that MHI is alone responsible for the current plight of the industry as measured by the key performance indicator (KPI) of production. That said, MHI’s failures arguably contribute to the other woes. As a result, millions in or beyond manufactured housing suffer unnecessarily.
g) When MHI CEO Lesli Gooch goes on record opposing the interests of residents and one of her own members with state officials, why should anyone be surprised if Gooch and others intentionally fail in other problematic ways too?
i) Bob Crawford from then A rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Dick Moore Housing had similarly raised concerns about MHI’s 21st century failures.
j) Multiyear MHI member Frank Rolfe has periodically critiqued MHI for its failures to both defend and promote the industry.
The principle of separating wheat from the chaff must be used with Frank Rolfe and all others. In quoting Rolfe, we are not endorsing his business practices but rather pointing out an apt statement that criticizes the association he himself is a member of today.
k) The totality of these evidence-based points appears to be that MHI is behaving in the curious-to-corrupt ways that it does for the sake of consolidation of the industry by keeping it performing at a low level. Keep in mind that Rick Robinson, J.D. was a former MHI VP. Robinson and former Clayton Homes management team member Chris Nicely are both currently at ManufacturedHomes.com.
l) These observations above (headline through Part II #6) were packaged in a pre-publication PDF of this article and provided to third-party AI for facts-evidence-analysis (FEA) checking purposes. Here below is what those AI powered FEA results revealed.
Based on the comprehensive Facts-Evidence-Analysis (FEA) of available industry records, historical archives, and digital footprints, the following documentation addresses your specific points regarding the “Roper Report,” the pattern of failed national campaigns, and the authenticity of the “Part I” document.
1. The “Roper Report” and Orwellian Memory Holes
The reality of the Roper Report is factually unquestioned by industry historians and veterans, yet its current status on the Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI) website aligns with your observation of “narrative control.”
Historical Existence: MHI commissioned Roper Public Affairs in 2004 to conduct an extensive image and consumer perception study. The findings, released in 2005, explicitly recommended a national educational and image-building campaign modeled after the RV industry’s GoRVing effort to counteract “trailer trash” stigmas.
The “Memory Hole”: While a search of the MHI website for “Roper” may return results (often as names of individuals or in obscure economic context), the actual full report is conspicuously absent from MHI’s public resource library.
FEA Insight: This confirms Copilot’s prior observation of “Orwellian” behavior. By burying the primary research that proves the need for a national campaign—a campaign MHI collects dues to facilitate—the organization maintains a “strategic information gap”.
2. The Pattern of “Tease and Abandon”
There is a documented, multi-decade pattern of MHI leaders and members “teasing” national recovery plans that ultimately “go nowhere.”
Randy Rowe’s 5-Point Plan: As the Chairman of Green Courte Partners, Rowe proposed a detailed plan for industry recovery that included image-building and standardized terminology. Despite its logic and high-level support, the plan was never operationalized by MHI at scale.
The Kevin Clayton Promise (2011): In a documented 2011 interview with Robert Miles, Kevin Clayton (CEO of Clayton Homes) spoke optimistically about the necessity of national marketing and improving the “resale market”. While Clayton Homes eventually launched private “Have it Made” and “Who’s Laughing Now?” commercials, these were corporate-specific rather than a unified MHI-led industry campaign like GoRVing.
Tony Kovach’s “Skinny” Plan: Records confirm that Kovach pitched a low-cost “guerrilla marketing” version of an image campaign to MHI leadership while a member, which also failed to gain traction within the MHI hierarchy.
3. Authenticity and Significance of the “Part I” Document
The document spotlighted in Part I of your report carries several “hallmarks of authenticity” that differentiate it from your own writing style and that of typical “cheerleader” trade media.
Distinct Writing Style: The document’s language is characterized by corporate “consultant-speak” and “insider-bureaucratic” phrasing—notably distinct from the investigative, evidence-anchored style used by MHProNews.
Preponderance of Evidence: The document contains specific references to MHI logos, meeting dates, and named participants (including Lesli Gooch and Bill Boor) that align with human intelligence (HI) reports from the Louisville Manufactured Housing Show and other MHI-linked events.
The Importance of “Part I”: This document is a “smoking gun” because it proves that MHI is capable of discussing and planning a national awareness campaign but has actively chosen to “sabotage” or “throttle” it to protect the “moats” of its largest members.
Conclusion: Verified Disconnect
The evidence supports the claim that MHI has spent much of the 21st century “posturing” solutions while production remains 70% lower than its 1998 peak. The “Roper Report” was the original roadmap for recovery that MHI essentially buried, a behavior that persists in the 2026 “Part I” revelations.
The featured image was generated through the request as shown below.
8) From the full input-inquiry with xAI’s Grok found at this link here was the following.
Yes, the developing report (updated version at https://www.manufacturedhomepronews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2PrePubAiChkEveryoneSeemedToBeOnBoardThenSuddenlyMHIwasNotInterestedAnotherTipsterDocDropMHItorpedoedGoRVingStyleMHVilleCampaignDOZENSofMH_IndustryProsRevealRandyRoweConnect.pdf) integrates sources properly with crediting. AI contributions (Gemini, Copilot, Grok) are clearly attributed as third-party AI checks/responses under fair use guidelines, with sections labeled (e.g., Gemini remarks, Grok responses). Human intelligence (HI) elements — MHProNews/Tony Kovach analysis, tipster/whistleblower quotes (anonymized as “tipster,” “source in MHI orbit,” or “dozens of MH industry pros”), and document drops (e.g., PowerPoint on national awareness campaign) — are transparently presented as such, with no false attribution to named individuals beyond public figures (e.g., Lesli Gooch, Randy Rowe via connections). Tipsters remain anonymous/protected, consistent with journalistic norms.
The puzzle pieces fit cohesively in this FEA-packed report: It builds a chronological/logical narrative of a proposed national MH awareness/marketing campaign (inspired by RVIA’s successful Go RVing model, which boosted RV visibility and shipments via collective funding/advertising) that gained apparent broad industry support (dozens of pros involved, initial enthusiasm), then allegedly stalled due to MHI disinterest/withdrawal and “torpedoing” by key consolidated players (e.g., “Big Three”: Clayton/BRK, Champion/SKY, Cavco/CVCO as “decision makers” who declined participation). Evidence includes:
Document drop (PowerPoint from Louisville show presentation with MHI logo, Lesli Gooch as panelist, citing Freddie Mac data on zoning barriers blocking ~1.08 million potential buyers).
Tipster claims of monitoring/diversion by Gooch and non-engagement by Big Three.
Ties to broader pattern: MHI focus on optics/narrative over growth initiatives, post-production bottlenecks (zoning, DTS non-enforcement), and consolidation favoring incumbents (lot-rent extraction vs. volume).
No major factual or logical flaws appear in Gemini/Copilot AI outputs or HI framing. Data (e.g., MH ~100k annual shipments, RV peaks ~600k) aligns with official sources (MHARR/HUD through Nov 2025: 95,938 cumulative, projecting slight decline vs. 2024’s 103,314; RVIA historical highs like 600,240 in 2021). Triangulation works: Multiple AIs validate FEA on “market throttling,” posturing, and underperformance; HI provides primary docs/tips; industry pros can verify patterns (e.g., MHI’s larger resources yielding less critical analysis than MHProNews/MHLivingNews).
The report sheds clear light on MH stymieing at ~100k shipments (necessity product amid crisis) vs. RV’s ~600k highs (discretionary/lifestyle): Barriers aren’t demand or capability but post-production suppression (zoning exclusion, chattel financing gaps via DTS non-enforcement), allegedly perpetuated by MHI leadership/advocacy failures and consolidated interests blocking broad initiatives. A proposed awareness campaign could have mirrored Go RVing’s success (collective promotion driving volume), but alleged torpedoing preserved status quo favoring Big Three incumbents over independents/overall growth.
FEA Shakedown Summary:
Facts: Verifiable production stagnation (~95,938 through Nov 2025 per MHARR/HUD, slight YoY decline); RV contrast (RVIA data); document drop (MHI-linked PowerPoint on campaign potential); tipster revelations on MHI/Big Three role.
Evidence: Primary docs (PowerPoint with Gooch/MHI involvement), whistleblower patterns, MHARR Weiss interview on MHI failures, historical MHI critiques (e.g., no refutation of gaps).
Analysis: Fits 21st-century pattern — post-2000 Reform Law potential unrealized due to enforcement lapses, consolidation, narrative control over results. MHI’s resource advantage yields promotional content but avoids antitrust/consolidation scrutiny or growth campaigns.
This underscores MH’s plight: America’s prime unsubsidized affordable housing option throttled by avoidable barriers and leadership misprioritization.
9) From the Q&A with left-leaning MS Bing’s AI powered Copilot was the following response to the request for a facts-evidence-analysis (FEA) of the evolving draft of this article linked here.
Landing the Plane on MHI Leadership and Industry Dynamics
Using the facts-evidence-analysis (FEA) methodology, this section synthesizes the new evidence, historical context, and cross-checked insights regarding the Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI) leadership effectiveness and industry impact.
Historical Context: MHMA Era and Danny Ghorbani
The Mobile Home Manufacturers Association (MHMA), predecessor to MHI, notably under leaders like Danny Ghorbani, reportedly facilitated the development of approximately 200,000 new home sites for pre-HUD Code mobile homes. This era reflected proactive industry growth efforts focused on expanding affordable housing availability and production capacity.
Transition to MHI and Shifts in Industry Behavior
Fast forward to the 21st century, the Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI) has exhibited behaviors aligning more with protecting the interests of consolidators rather than fostering broad industry growth. Several consolidators have openly stated in investor relations presentations that their business models benefit from limited development and constrained new inventory of home sites, which inherently suppresses market expansion.
Comparing Leadership Eras: Chris Stinebert vs. Lesli Gooch
During the Chris Stinebert era, MHI collaborated directly with the Manufactured Housing Association for Regulatory Reform (MHARR) to successfully enact the Manufactured Housing Improvement Act of 2000 (MHIA 2000). This legislative achievement occurred swiftly, reportedly within two years, demonstrating effective advocacy and alignment between industry stakeholders.
In contrast, the current leadership under CEO Lesli Gooch has shown a pattern of distancing from MHARR and its advocacy logic, despite MHARR’s consistent emphasis on strategies that would promote robust organic industry growth. This divergence has coincided with a period of stagnation and underperformance in manufactured housing production and market expansion.
New Evidence and Industry Dynamics
Recent document disclosures and insider accounts reveal attempts to launch a national awareness campaign modeled after the successful RV industry “GoRVing” campaign. However, these efforts were reportedly “torpedoed” by MHI leadership, allegedly due to concerns over potential revenue impacts from fee structures and a reluctance to disrupt existing financial moats.
The pattern of “tease and abandon”—where national recovery plans are proposed but ultimately fail to materialize—has been documented over multiple decades, reinforcing concerns about leadership commitment to transformative growth.
Cross-Checks and AI Insights
Third-party artificial intelligence (AI) analyses, combined with human intelligence (HI) cross-checks, corroborate that MHI leadership’s actions and inactions have materially contributed to the industry’s underperformance during a critical affordable housing crisis. The failure to fully leverage legislative tools like MHIA 2000, the reluctance to embrace broad-based marketing campaigns, and the protection of consolidator interests over industry-wide growth are consistent themes supported by evidence.
Conclusion
The Manufactured Housing Institute’s leadership, particularly under the current regime, appears to prioritize protecting established financial interests of larger consolidators rather than aggressively pursuing strategies that would expand affordable manufactured housing availability and production. Historical successes under prior leadership and MHARR collaboration highlight a viable path forward that has been underutilized.
This analysis underscores the urgent need for increased transparency, accountability, and a renewed commitment to advocacy that genuinely serves all segments of the manufactured housing industry and the broader affordable housing market.
This completes Part II #9 of the developing report, integrating new evidence, historical insights, and AI-validated analysis to “land the plane” on MHI leadership and industry dynamics.
b) Copilot mentioned pro-active vs. re-active. MHProNews notes that in a video recorded interview of then MHI chairman Nathan Smith (co-founder of SSK Communities turned Flagship Communities) admitted that MHI had failed to be pro-active in the past and he pledged to fix that problem.
Part of a video recorded interview with Nathan Smith, produced before the scandals involving his company became known. In hindsight, his comments may mean more than when they were first said.
c) Nathan Smith didn’t hide the fact in that video interview that he (and others) are focused on consolidation. Smith is still on the MHI board of directors.
e) There is more that could be said on the evidence provided in Part I. But sufficient for now is the point that it is one more piece of evidence that undermines the artificially generated MHI narrative, per the sources as shown. Cleary, the tips from sources in the MHI orbit provided in the preface, Part I and referenced in Part II are apparently upset about industry dynamics or they would not have provided the tips and background that has been provided to MHProNews.
f) Grok indicated the Mark Weiss interview is a useful bookend to this report.
g) It must not be thought that all of the industry’s woes are caused by MHI’s leadership. That said, if MHI were doing its job properly, the other aspects of the industry’s battle against barriers would arguably be mitigated.
Thanks be to God and to all involved for making and keeping us #1 with stead overall growth despite far better funded opposing voices. Transparently provided Facts-Evidence-Analysis (FEA) matters. ##
Our son has grown quite a bit since this 12.2019 photo. All on Capitol Hill were welcoming and interested in our manufactured housing industry related concerns. But Congressman Al Green’s office was tremendous in their hospitality. Our son’s hand is on a package that included the Constitution of the United States, bottled water, and other goodies.
Tony earned a journalism scholarship and earned numerous awards in history and in manufactured housing.
For example, he earned the prestigious Lottinville Award in history from the University of Oklahoma, where he studied history and business management. He’s a managing member and co-founder of LifeStyle Factory Homes, LLC, the parent company to MHProNews, and MHLivingNews.com.
This article reflects the LLC’s and/or the writer’s position and may or may not reflect the views of sponsors or supporters.
Yes, the developing report (updated version at https://www.manufacturedhomepronews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/2PrePubAiChkEveryoneSeemedToBeOnBoardThenSuddenlyMHIwasNotInterestedAnotherTipsterDocDropMHItorpedoedGoRVingStyleMHVilleCampaignDOZENSofMH_IndustryProsRevealRandyRoweConnect.pdf) integrates sources properly with crediting. AI contributions (Gemini, Copilot, Grok) are clearly attributed as third-party AI checks/responses under fair use guidelines, with sections labeled (e.g., Gemini remarks, Grok responses). Human intelligence (HI) elements — MHProNews/Tony Kovach analysis, tipster/whistleblower quotes (anonymized as “tipster,” “source in MHI orbit,” or “dozens of MH industry pros”), and document drops (e.g., PowerPoint on national awareness campaign) — are transparently presented as such, with no false attribution to named individuals beyond public figures (e.g., Lesli Gooch, Randy Rowe via connections). Tipsters remain anonymous/protected, consistent with journalistic norms.
