March 12, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Thomas Shaner, CAE

BALTIMORE - In recognition of its efforts to protect and preserve homeownership for Maryland’s working families the Maryland Association of Mortgage Brokers (MAMP) has announced the Maryland Homeowners Preservation Task Force as its 2008 Legislative Award recipient.

The Task Force was created by Governor Martin O’Malley this past June in efforts to help prevent home foreclosures for working families in Maryland. Its recommendations to Governor O’Malley prior to the 2008 legislative session have helped guide several reforms and programs developed in Annapolis.

Co-chaired by Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Secretary Tom Perez and Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Ray Skinner, the Task Force includes non-profit organizations, foundations, housing advocates and counselors, representatives from the federal, state and local governments, government sponsored enterprises (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac), mortgage lenders, mortgage insurance companies, mortgage services companies, and industry associations.

MAMP also honored several individuals. Receiving the President's Award was Joseph M. Brown, Jr., CRMS of Premier Equity Mortgage, LLC in Catonsville. Having served as president of MAMP and just recently retiring from his position as three-term MAMP treasurer, Brown received the award in recognition of his long track record of service to MAMP's board of directors.

Michael Parsons of Nationwide Home Mortgage was recognized as MAMP's Broker of the Year for his leadership on MAMP's Board of Directors as well as the dedication to the profession he displayed while serving on the Association's Membership Committee. "In the past year Michael has been instrumental in enhancing the value of MAMP membership, leading its transformation from what was previously a good investment to what is now a tool that no mortgage professional can be without," said MAMP Executive Director Tom Shaner, CAE.

In addition to honoring Parsons, Chic Reid of AmTrust Bank was presented with the Affiliate of the Year Award. Reid, who currently serves on MAMP's board of directors, was honored for his long-term leadership as a member of the board and as chair of the education committee.

The award ceremonies took place on the first day of the 2008 MAMP Conference & Exposition. Taking place March 11-12, the conference attracted over 800 mortgage professionals and affiliates were in attendance. MAMP leaders are already at work planning the 2009 MAMP Annual Convention and Exposition.

MAMP would like to thank it's Gold Partner in Education for their continued support: