ASA-Illinois Holds Successful Event

Attendees view the latest automotive repair products and services during the trade show.

More than 250 attendees participated in the ASA-Illinois Mechanical Division (ASA-ILMD) Odyssey Trade Show and Education Day held Feb. 27-29 at the Holiday Inn, Naperville, Ill.

The two-day event offered 12 technical courses on topics including OBD-II, electronic service information, air fuel sensors and current probe information. Six management seminars were also offered on various areas including business and strategic planning, service advising and work flow management.

In addition to the educational lineup, more than 40 exhibitors displayed the latest technology in automotive service products and services.

As a result of the success of this year's show, the affiliate is already planning next year's event. ASA-ILMD will hold Odyssey 2005 Feb. 25-26. For more information, contact Tim Seeden, executive director, (630) 969-4563.

ASA Announces New Affiliate

ASA-Michigan Joins National Association

"We look forward to working closely with the ASA members in Michigan. From legislative efforts to member benefits, we anticipate a strong working relationship that will enhance the value of membership and advance the industry as a whole," said Ron Pyle, ASA president and chief staff executive. "Their commitment to this industry is apparent and we look forward to actively supporting their efforts."

ASA-Michigan becomes the 16th affiliate for the national association.

"ASA-Michigan (formerly the Automotive Service Councils of Michigan) has taken a positive step toward unifying the repair industry. This has always been one of our goals," said Ray Fraser, owner of American Collision in Detroit and ASA-Michigan's chairman of the board. "I hope other states will look at this and evaluate their position for the good of the industry."

Ron Meyer, AAM, president of ASA-Michigan, said, "I am really proud of our board and membership. The board evaluated this major decision very carefully and met the challenge to determine the best direction for the future of the association. Most importantly, it was decided by our members. An overwhelming majority voted that affiliation with ASA was the best move for them and the industry."

NATIONAL NEWS

• The premier event of ASA's Mechanical Division the Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) - is unmatched in regard to management seminars, technical courses and exhibitor showcase. The 2004 event will be held Nov. 4-6 at the Flamingo Las Vegas.

  The theme of this year's show is "Feel the Power." In keeping with this theme, CARS 2004 will offer cutting-edge technical training and management courses approved by the Automotive Management Institute (AMI). The event will also provide ample networking opportunities, including the third annual Service Professionals Industry Reception, cosponsored by ASA and the International Automotive Technicians' Network (iATN); and an exhibitor showcase featuring the latest in automotive products and services. In addition, automobile manufacturers will be on hand to present new product technology seminars during the show.

  To register, visit the CARS Web site, www.CARSonline.org.

• The International Autobody Congress & Exposition (NACE) will be held Dec. 3-6 at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Las Vegas. Housing and registration for the event is available through the official NACE Web site, www.NACEexpo.com.