Annual 98

1998 ASA Annual Convention Agenda
Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
March 11-15, 1998

Opening General Session

March 13
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Bud Merwin With thoughts of the industry in the next millennium being "Beyond Imagination," we must not only be prepared, we must know how far we've come, and celebrate past accomplishments and commitments.

Bob Anderson ASA President and Chief Staff Executive G.W. "Bud" Merwin III (left) and Bob Anderson, ASA chairman (right), will extend a warm welcome to attendees, as well as recap the 1997 association activities.

Bob Redding In addition, ASA Washington Representative Robert L. Redding, Jr.(left) will review current legislative issues with his annual legislative update.

Charles Petty

Keynote Address

Dr. Charles V. Petty, family humorist, will show attendees how family relationships affect the bottom line for an individual, as well as for a company. His rare ability to package profound, life-changing truths into humor will amaze attendees. Petty will entertain and talk meaningfully about what people are really interested in and what makes a difference in their lives. He follows the Southern tradition of being able to tell funny stories and describe everyday experiences humorously.

Petty is a native of England, Arkansas, and founder and president of Family Success Unlimited. He has worked for large corporations in Texas and North Carolina. For seven years Petty was a staff member for the Governor of North Carolina, carrying out the state's emphasis on volunteerism.

Awards Luncheon: "One Little Candle"

March 13
11:45 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Don't miss this annual event when ASA passes the candle of achievement and success by recognizing its devoted and tireless volunteers, key leaders and those who have dedicated themselves to the success of the association and the automotive industry. The Awards Luncheon will also honor the achievement of those students who have earned the Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation from the Automotive Management Institute (AMI), during a special cap and gown ceremony.

Ascettes Meeting

March 13
10:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
All attendees are welcome to join this lively and informative discussion group. The Ascettes recognize affiliate achievements, as well as promote member harmony. This year's meeting will feature a fun-filled game of Bingo. The group annually raffles an exciting prize during the Chairman's Banquet, so purchase your ticket from any Ascettes member for a chance to win.

ASA Division Meetings

(See Schedule of Events for Times)

Mechanical Division
The ASA Mechanical Division meetings will bring attendees up-to-date on information availability on emission and non-emission related concerns, refrigeration, and inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs. The 1997 activities of the Mechanical Division Operations Committee will also be highlighted providing attendees with an inside look at current division involvements.

A second session will be conducted as an informal town hall meeting and panel discussion covering events that may alter the way automotive repair is conducted in the future. As new, more complex products arrive in the market and changing rules and regulations tend to narrow our field of opportunities, what is the best route for the average shop owner? Attend this session and exchange ideas with others who share your common interests.

Collision Division
The ASA Collision Division meetings will focus on important issues that affect the day-to-day operations of a collision repair facility. The term so often heard, "We don't pay for that" or "You're the only one asking for that" has created disharmony for years. Our panelists will attempt to address why it seems that insurers have held shops to the tenth of an hour, and then not compensate them for every necessary step performed. Other topics of discussion will include:

You won't want to miss these two important meetings. We're going to hit both issues directly.

Chairman's Reception & Banquet

March 14
7:00 p.m. -10:45 p.m.
"Blast from the Past"
Join ASA Chairman Bob Anderson and his guests for an evening of food, fun and entertainment. Sit back and relax while enjoying the sounds of great hits such as "Please Mr. Postman," "Tonight's the Night," "Remember (Walkin' in the Sand)" and "Leader of the Pack."

Live entertainment will be provided by "Ladies of the Pack." This high-energy group consists of members from the Shirelles, the Shangri-Las and the Marvelettes.

Attire for the evening is semi-formal, black tie optional.

Special Event: Legacy Luncheon

March 12
11:30 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.
The automotive service industry has advanced significantly during the last 45 years due to the dedication and involvement of many key individuals. One such person is G.W. "Bud" Merwin III. Merwin began his industry involvement as a collision and mechanical repair shop owner and association officer. He later became the president of the Automotive Service Councils (ASC), which is now known as the Automotive Service Association (ASA). Merwin has served as ASA president and chief staff executive since 1989. His continued commitment to enhance the automotive service industry is evident through his strong leadership abilities and his many accomplishments.

Merwin will retire in December 1998. After hosting and attending every ASA convention since 1970, this year's will be his last as president. Join ASA in celebrating his legacy through this special luncheon being held in his honor.

Accommodations Schedule of Events Agenda
Seminars Tours Registration

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