New ASA Board of Directors Installed During Celebration of Excellence

ASA announced its new board of directors and introduced the board during the association's Annual Convention April 30-May 2 in Orlando, Fla. The installation of the board took place during ASA's Celebration of Excellence May 2.

Earl Dohner, AAM, E&E's Garage, Brookville, Ohio, was named chairman of ASA's board of directors for 2009-2010 and assumed the chairman's post at the conclusion of the annual convention. He succeeds Reggie Denney, AAM, Reggie Denney Auto Repair, Eden, N.C., who moves to the immediate past chairman's seat on the board of directors for one year. Click here to view the rest of the board.

Other Convention News:
• ASA Annual Convention Provides Activity-, Education-Packed Event in Florida
• ASA Honors Member Achievements at 2009 'Celebration of Excellence'
• Read All Convention News

Administration, House Leadership Exclude Vehicle Repair Option
from Cash for Clunkers Proposal
President Barack Obama and the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce have proposed a new Cash for Clunkers plan that they believe will stimulate domestic car sales. The proposal would replace older, less-fuel-efficient vehicles with new, more-fuel-efficient vehicles - thus spurring new car sales in the United States. Click here for more information.

ASA is urging industry professionals to write their legislators in support of a repair option for vehicle owners. Click here to send a letter today.

Other Legislative News:
• Shop Licensing Bill Introduced In North Carolina
• Congressional Support for Right to Repair Waning

ASA Members Receive Dividend from Meadowbrook Insurance Group
ASA members who carry workers' compensation coverage through Meadowbrook Insurance Group and who meet eligibility requirements will receive a dividend as a result of participating in the ASA Group Program. The dividend represents a 3 percent return of annual premium and shows that workplace safety is a solid investment. Click here for more information.

Collision Members: Schedule Key Appointments with Policymakers on
Capitol Hill!
ASA will host a Capitol Hill Fly-In for ASA collision members July 28-29 in Washington, D.C., allowing members to meet with policymakers to discuss the future of insurance regulation and how the federal government may address automotive parts policy. ASA will assist its collision shop members by scheduling key appointments on Capitol Hill to meet with policymakers.

Join ASA for this unique legislative opportunity to meet with policymakers. Registration is required and is limited to ASA members only. Visit www.TakingTheHill.com for more information or to register today.

Reminder: ASA Offers Guidelines for Extended Service Plans
ASA would like to remind members about the two versions of the Extended Service Plan Guidelines: the "Shop Owners' Guidelines for Easier ESP Processing" and the "Consumers' Guidelines to ESPs."

Outlining common practices of extended service plans (ESPs), ASA's guidelines for shop owners include a number of tips and recommendations to help streamline the repair process and ensure a positive experience for the customer as well as the repair facility.

ASA's new and timely document for consumers helps explain extended service plans (ESPs) and what consumers need to know if they are interested in purchasing this type of vehicle coverage. Be sure to get your copy of both documents by visiting the ASA Web site and logging in to the Members Only section with your six-digit member number.

Selling Maintenance and Repair During Tough Economic Times
You've seen all of the headlines in the news recently regarding mortgage meltdowns, stock market struggles, and layoffs continuing to rise - not to mention the wild swings in the price of gasoline. Clearly, many people are legitimately concerned about the stability of their financial future.

Although you and I know American consumers can best control their vehicle expense by taking good care of their vehicles, the reality is this: When times are tough, the first place people cut back is on what they perceive to be nonessential expenses. Click here to read the AutoInc. article.

My Pleasure …
In this era of mistrust and lapsed ethical standards, I can understand why our members place so much value on our commitment to do what is right. It is a treat to work with and for those with whom you share common values. Click here now to read and comment.

ASA members agree to adhere to ASA's Code of Ethics - the automotive service industry's standard for professional business practices with consumers in mind. In addition to a shop's business name, motorists can also identify ASA member businesses by the red, white and blue ASA sign. Purchase a Code of Ethics poster to display in your business or a new ASA Member sign at www.ASAstore.com.

ASA's Mission: ASA advances professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation and member services.