Builders group loses director

BOARDMAN -- Mike Wilson resigned after 14 years as executive director of the Home Builders Association of the Mahoning Valley.
Wilson's action came as the HBA board of directors decided to reduce expenses by beginning the new year as a volunteer-driven organization.
Wilson, who is leaving the organization to pursue other business opportunities, will be replaced by Terry Abrams, who is currently deputy executive director.
Abrams, who lives with his wife, Georgieanne, in Struthers, said the association "is going to continue and prosper through accountability, credibility and frugality."
Abrams came to the HBA after a career in banking where he served as vice president and director of marketing at First Western Bancorp in New Castle, Pa. His career also encompassed 20 years in television and radio, primarily in central and southern Pennsylvania.
During Wilson's tenure, the organization said it quadrupled its membership and won more awards than other associations in the nation.