Contact:	Angie Wilson (800) 272-7467, ext. 216 angie@asashop.org
For Release:	Immediate News Bulletin ASA-24 July 8, 2004

ASA Announces New Affiliate

ASA-Michigan Joins National Association

BEDFORD, TEXAS, July 8, 2004 - The Automotive Service Association (ASA) board of directors has approved ASA-Michigan as the newest affiliate in the ASA organization.

"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."

The Automotive Service Association is the largest not-for-profit trade association of its kind, serving more than 12,000 businesses and approximately 70,000 professionals from all segments of the automotive service industry. ASA's headquarters is in Bedford, Texas.

ASA advances professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation and member services. Additional information about ASA, including past news releases, is available on the ASA Web Site on the Internet (http://www.asashop.org).

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