Storage Investment Management Inc. (SIMI), which manages more than 30 self-storage properties throughout New England, held its annual manager's conference and awards-recognition dinner at the Trumbull Marriott Merritt Parkway in Trumbull, Conn., on Sept. 20. The conference portion included roundtable presentations on self-storage marketing, SIMI policies and procedures, industry best practices, and other topics. Afterward, attendees enjoyed an awards dinner during each the company's top performing facility managers were recognized.

Awards were given for "Highest Volume of Merchandise Sales," "Best Budget Income Variance," "Most Improved Facility" and other categories. The 2012 manager of the year was Jess Benowitz, manager of Planet Self Storage in Clinton, N.J. The No. 1 ranked "power rating" went to Mike Melia, manager of All American Self Storage In Methuen, Mass.

In addition, SIMI recognized 11 employees for extended length of service ranging from five to 20 years. A 20-year award was given to Bob Barzelay, the company's director of management information systems.