I have received countless benefits from my membership in ASA. None have impacted me more, both personally and professionally, as the camaraderie I enjoy with fellow ASA members.

While I don't have to be reminded of the fact, it was reaffirmed at the recent ASA Annual Convention. Since joining ASA, I have participated in many conventions. None, however, offered an overall experience as positive as this year's convention.

What made this convention such a good experience were the members. All of the members were focused on learning as much as they possibly could so they would be able to return home to their shops with new ideas, refreshed attitudes and increased management skills. ASA members were determined to leave the convention with new knowledge that would help them take their businesses to the next level of success. The members also were seeking ways to elevate not just their own shop, but the entire industry as well.

Never before had I experienced this level of commitment being mutually shared. Because every member brought their individual commitment to learning to the convention, the atmosphere was such that every meeting, seminar and social function served as a reminder to me just how valuable it is to be an active member of this association.

The shared commitment to learning was tangible. As a result, the work sessions of the mechanical and collision divisions were well attended and there was a free flow of member input. This is vital because the work of these committees benefits everyone in the automotive industry.

The Affiliate Assembly and board of directors meetings were very productive with new challenges and actions taken to make ASA and its affiliates even better than they are today.

Not to be overlooked were the convention's social functions. The opening Welcome Party and the daily refreshment breaks were alive with members' conversations and the sharing of ideas and experiences. The insight I gained from my peers during these informal conversations will enable me to run my shop much better than I could if I relied solely on my own experiences.

It is impossible to overstate what a valuable and positive experience this year's convention was. I left totally invigorated and charged to tackle both my shop responsibilities and my responsibilities as your chairman.

If you were fortunate enough to be in Bermuda for the convention, you know exactly what I'm talking about. Many of you made similar comments to me about the positive attitude and experience of the convention.

If you were unable to be with us in Bermuda, make a promise to yourself to come and experience the power and positive energy at the ASA 2000 annual convention next April in Point Clear, Ala.

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