Do you find it alarming that we're already beginning a new year? I was tempted to go back through my shop calendar and make certain one or two months weren't left off 1998.

Looking forward, I'm very excited about 1999 and all that it promises. ASA is better positioned than ever before to be the voice for independent automotive aftermarket professionals.

ASA is the only national association that represents our profession. It is the only national association that ensures your needs, concerns and problems are heard by vendors, information providers, insurance companies and legislative leaders.

ASA is the only national association dedicated to enhancing the professionalism of automotive repair and service. ASA is the only national association that unites thousands of independent shops under one banner. Standing and working together, we can accomplish many good things.

When I look at the history of our association, I realize that because ASA exists you and I are able to go to work every day in our shops. Without ASA, the independent shop would very likely be extinct.

How can I make such a bold statement? Simple. When the U.S. Congress implemented the Clean Air Act, they very nearly allowed the manufacturers to seal the hood on independent shops. ASA, representing the future of independent automotive repair, made certain those hoods weren't sealed.

I include this bit of history to demonstrate just how important ASA is to this industry. It demonstrates that what transpires one day has repercussions years later. Our constant challenge is to have the wisdom, foresight and ability to make decisions that improve this industry. That's one thing that hasn't changed since this association was founded in 1951.

As members of ASA, each of us has an opportunity to participate in the decisions that shape the future of our industry. Your participation can take many forms. One is to simply continue your membership in 1999. Another is to vote in the board of directors election.

Elsewhere in this issue of AutoInc. you can read about the candidates and place your vote for those whom you believe will best represent your concerns.

You can also participate in the Annual Meeting that's scheduled for March in Bermuda. The ASA Meetings Department has made arrangements for values on airfare and hotel reservations. Find out more by calling the Meetings Department at (800) 272-7467, ext. 235.

Anytime you look to the future and try to anticipate what lies ahead, you will encounter some uncertainties. What is certain, however, is that ASA will continue to serve its members. Please participate and help make this ASA's best year ever.

My sincere wish as we begin 1999 is that you and your family will know only health and happiness. Happy New Year.

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