NAA’S FOUR CORNERSTONES
MARKETING COMPETITION UNINTENDED OUTCOMES
AUCTIONEERS.ORG/BENEFITSUMMIT
With a sense of profound pride and a tinge of melancholy, I humbly address you in my final column as President of the National Auctioneers Association.
Over the course of the past year, we have achieved significant milestones and borne witness to truly remarkable accomplishments. From the success of our annual Conference & Show in San Diego in 2022, to the steadfast building of our membership and the progress of our initiatives, it has been a year defined by advancement and an unwavering commitment to propelling our industry forward. Now, as we cast our gaze towards the upcoming Conference & Show scheduled for July, I believe we will continue to build upon this momentum and elevate our industry to unprecedented heights.
The Conference & Show stands as an eagerly anticipated event that holds a place of significance in my heart every year. It serves as an opportunity for us to assemble, to forge connections with one another, to exchange ideas and insights, and to absorb wisdom from the most sought after leaders in our industry. This year's event promises nothing short of excellence, and it is my honor to extend an earnest invitation to each of you to join us in Oklahoma City for an experience that is destined to leave an indelible mark upon your professional journey.
Undoubtedly, one of the highlights of Conference & Show is the International Auctioneer Championship. This prestigious event unites the crème de la crème of talented auctioneers from across the globe, who congregate to contend for the title of IAC Champion. If you have yet to witness this awesome spectacle firsthand, I implore you to seize this opportunity.
Within the expansive framework of the Conference & Show, we also celebrate the Marketing Competition Awards. This competition serves as a platform for auctioneers to showcase their prowess in marketing and creativity, and is a source of inspiration to witness the awe-inspiring work that NAA members produce.
Lastly, I would like to draw your attention to an article within this issue that delves into the remarkable leadership exhibited by our cornerstone committees. Composed of some of the most devoted and impassioned members within our organization, these committees play an indispensable role in shaping the strategic direction of the NAA. I encourage each of you to invest the time to peruse this enlightening article, acquaint yourself with the invaluable work undertaken by our committees, and contemplate contributing your own unique talents by volunteering for one of the cornerstone committees in the future.
With profound gratitude and a deep sense of fulfillment, your NAA President Sherman Hostetter.
Well, the previous paragraphs are a ChatGPT
version of my last Presidential column. Once I prepared my bullet points and loaded them into ChatGPT, it took all of 30 seconds to finish. Amazing! Get Ready—ChatGPT AI will change your life!
Now, to add my personal touches that won’t seem as eloquent but will be from the heart! I want to start by saying thank you to each of you for being an NAA member. Together we can grow and protect our great profession!
As most of you know, I was born into the auction profession, which has been a huge plus for my auction career. I started full time in the auction profession when I was 28 and now I am 68. That’s 40 years of doing what I love with the people I love—my parents, children, my grandchildren, and my extended NAA and PAA auction family. I am truly Blessed!
The auction business is not easy but it has been very fulfilling and rewarding. I want to thank all of you for the opportunity to serve at both the state and national levels for over 37 years.
For the Pennsylvania Auctioneers Association (PAA), I served as association president, president of the Northwest Chapter, and currently sit on the Pennsylvania State Board of Auctioneer Examiners.
At the national level, I have served on the National Auctioneers Foundation Board, completed three terms as an NAA board member, been president of CAI, chair of the Education Institute, and for a little longer, serving as the NAA President. Outside of NAA, but still at the national level, the National Association of Realtors Auction Committee rounds out the list.
I mention these not as a list of accomplishments but as blessings that provided me the opportunity to give back to a profession and industry that has supported my family since 1955! I cannot outgive the Lord. Anytime you serve others it will come back to you in multiplied return in all forms of blessings.
At every auction we conducted, my father would say “Leave the place better than you found it.” My prayer is that I have done that as your NAA President.
I would be remiss if I did not say thank you to current board members for their hard work, dedication and for making my job look easy. We are in good hands with those that continue on the board and those who will be elected in July. And a hearty thank you to Aaron Ensminger and NAA staff for everything you do for the membership and our profession!
Terri Walker and Beth Rose—thank you for your leadership and guidance. It was much appreciated! Lance, get ready for some major blessings—and for guidance see Terri and Beth! And Ailie Byers. What can I say but that the Lord has a way of putting people together that are polar opposites. I can honestly say you made this year more fun than I could have imagined.
May God continue to Bless our Profession!
Sherman Hostetter is the President and CEO of Hostetter Auctioneers. He is a past president of the Auction Marketing Institute, past president of the Pennsylvania Auctioneers Association, a Board member for the National Auctioneers Foundation, two-time Board member for the NAA, and past instructor for the Accredited Auctioneer Real Estate designation. He is also a 2015 inductee into the NAA Hall of Fame.
Published by the 8880 Ballentine St. Overland Park, KS 66214-1900
P: (913) 541-8084 | F: (913) 894-5281
Chief Executive Officer Aaron Ensminger, CAE aensminger@auctioneers.org (913) 563-5423
Director of Finance & Administrative Services Jordan Crupper | jcrupper@auctioneers.org
Administrative Assistant National Auctioneers Foundation Administrator Rebekah Ferguson | rferguson@auctioneers.org
Director of Education Kristina Franz, CAE | kfranz@auctioneers.org
Sales & Trade Show Manager Adam Kenne | akenne@auctioneers.org
Director of Membership & Marketing Janice Martin | jmartin@auctioneers.org
Marketing Specialist Arturo Mendoza | amendoza@auctioneers.org
Accounting Coordinator Genny O’Niones | goniones@auctioneers.org
Meetings Manager Joyce Peterson | jpeterson@auctioneers.org
Through generous donations from people like you, the National Auctioneers Foundation funds scholarships for NAA educational events. The application process has changed, as mentioned in the last issue of Auctioneer. Now, there is one easy-to-use form to apply for any available scholarship throughout the year. This means no more missing the application window. Apply at any time for any event. Find the updated application form now at auctioneersfoundation.org/about-scholarships.
Membership Coordinator Courtney Teel | cteel@auctioneers.org
Education Specialist Brooke Thomsen | bthomsen@auctioneers.org
Programs Administrator Jennifer Vossman, CMP | jvossman@auctioneers.org
Communications Coordiantor Taven Wohlford | twohlford@auctioneers.org
The following candidates have been recommended by the Candidate Review Committee:
For Vice President:
• John Schultz, AMM
Candidate for Treasurer:
• Ailie Byers, CAI, AMM, BAS
For Director:
• Wade Baer, CAI, AMM
• T. Kyle Swicegood, CAI, AARE, BAS, GPPA
Be sure your voice is heard. Update your NAA profile before voting begins.
• Log in to your profile on auctioneer.org and confirm your information is correct
• Watch for an email coming soon with further voting instructions
Volunteer Appreciation Workshop back, back, back again for year two
All of the work of the National Auctioneers Association doesn’t happen without volunteers. This year we’re hoping to celebrate as many of you as possible, so we’re adding the Volunteer Appreciation Workshop as a pre-con to Conference & Show in Oklahoma City.
Plan to come in a tad early and join us for a workshop made just for you. More info coming soon.
Business development and continuity are important parts of owning an auction business. Determining whether it’s better for you to build a business or to buy an existing one can be difficult. And analyzing the process and timing of transferring your business requires accurate business valuation. Explore the various
types of businesses that exist, the varied perspectives of value for a business, and which options could be the best fit for you. Take a deeper dive into this session from the 2022 Conference & Show, hosted by Jen Gableman, CAI, ATS and Jim Fahey to ask further questions or see what helpful information you might have missed.
NAA Board Election voting begins July 19 at 1 pm Central Time. Digital ballots will be emailed to current NAA members. The deadline to vote will be July 20 at 9:30 a.m. Central Time. You cannot change your vote once it is cast.
The National Auctioneers Foundation recently voted to offer each of the Auction Schools two scholarships to attend the International Auctioneer’s Conference & Show. The scholarships will be awarded annually as they see fit.
(left to right) Angela Higgenbotham, Brian Davis, Marty Higgenbotham, CAI, AARE, CES, Wade Baer, CAI, AMM, Bryce Elemond, CAI, BAS, Willie Baker, CAI, AMM, T. Kyle Swicegood, CAI, AARE, BAS, GPPA, Chris Vaughan, CAI, AARE, AMM, Elizabeth Swicegood, CAI, Lewis Swicegood, Terri Walker, CAI, BAS, CES, Robert Petts, CAI, CES, Lance Walker, CAI, BAS, CES, Cliff-Ed Irvin, CAI
CAA Day At the Capitol: Thank you to all of our members who came out to CAA Day at the Capitol! The association raised approximately $2,500 for the Legislative Staff Party at today’s session.
TAA Legislative Day on the Hill
South Carolina Day at the Capitol First picture is everyone who attended today at the statehouse: Left to Right: John Slaughter, Rep. Randy Ligon, CAI, BAS, CES, Rafe Dixon, CAI, AARE, CES, Jessica Ludwig, Holli McGee, Brian Hope, Chris Pracht, CAI, AARE, CES, Joe Burns, CAI, Gwen Bryant, CAI, AARE, CES, GPPA, Matt Holiday
NAA serves auction entrepreneurs with services provided based on four cornerstones: promotions, advocacy, education, and community.
If you've served on a: Task force Committee Board
If you've served as a/an: Ambassador Volunteer speaker
WE WANT TO SEE YOU THERE!
Eligibility: Volunteered in the last three years, or have three years volunteering completed
RIGHT BEFORE THE 74TH INTERNATIONAL
The Georgia Auctioneers Association Convention & Contests were held Feb. 18-20.
Rookie Contest:
• Trevor Hooley, Third Place
• Matthew Beard, Second Place
• Trent Kerr, Champion
Ringman Contest:
• Justin Godwin, Third Place
• Larry Harb, Second Place
• Devon Chin, Champion
Pro Bid Calling Contest:
• Michael Acord, Third Place
• Kyle Nisly, Second Place
• Taylor Osborn, Champion
Election results:
• Tim Yoder, Chairman
• Elton Baldy, President
• Taylor Osborn, Vice President
• Perry Walden, Treasurer
Board of Directors:
• J.T. Rowell
• George Franco
• Michael Acord
• John Hunter DeMott
• Joe Lanier
• Lou Dempsey
Have you ever wondered how programs and events get planned at NAA? Wonder no more. While all the work done by NAA is completed by volunteers and staff together, there’s a very special group of volunteers who work tirelessly in each of NAA’s four cornerstones to ensure that we’re bringing our best to members.
NAA’s strategic focus is defined by four different areas. Everything our organization does fits into one of these areas. Those cornerstones are Advocacy, Community, Promotions, and Education. Each of those areas is overseen by a “Cornerstone Committee,” who’s charged with watching over their area of focus, suggesting new programs and changes to existing programs, as well as defining their own parameters for success.
Each Cornerstone Committee brings their ideas to the Board of Directors, who work to fit as much of this work as they can into the budget each year.
The Advocacy Committee plays a vital role in representing the interests of auctioneers within the legislative and regulatory arenas. They actively engage in advocacy efforts to protect and advance the rights and professionalism of auctioneers. This committee works tirelessly to promote the benefits of the auction method of marketing to policymakers and the general public. By advocating for fair regulations and policies, the Advocacy Committee ensures that auctioneers have a voice and are well-represented in matters that affect their profession. The current members of the Advocacy Committee are:
• Wade Baer, CAI, AMM (Chair)
• Sherm Hostetter, CAI, AARE, BAS, CES, GPPA (EC Liaison)
• Trisha Brauer, CAI, BAS
• Jay Cash, BAS, CAS
• Mark Manley, CAI, AARE, AMM, MPPA
• Isaac Schultz
• Stephen LaRaviere
• Jeff Morris, CAI, AARE
The Community Committee focuses on building strong relationships among auction professionals and fostering a sense of community within the NAA. They organize networking events, facilitate mentorship programs, and promote collaboration among members. This committee plays a crucial role in creating a supportive and inclusive environment for auctioneers to connect, share knowledge, and learn from one another. By nurturing a vibrant community, the committee enhances the overall experience and camaraderie within the auction industry. Currently serving on the Community Committee:
• Morgan Hopson, CAI (Chair)
• Peter Gehres, CAI, CAS, CES (Vice Chair)
• Beth Rose, CAI, AARE, AMM (EC Liaison)
• Naomi Lewis, BAS
• Marcela Davila Diez Gutierrez
• Russ Hilk, CAI, AMM, GPPA
• Dan Newman, BAS, AMM
• Freddie Silveria, CAI, BAS
• Shawn Hagler
The Promotions Committee is responsible for raising awareness about the auction industry and promoting the value and benefits of auctions to a broader audience. They develop and implement marketing strategies, including advertising campaigns, social media outreach, and public relations initiatives. This committee showcases the auction method as an efficient, transparent, and effective means of selling goods and services. By promoting auctions as a reliable and trustworthy avenue for buyers and sellers, the Promotions Committee helps attract new participants and expands the reach of the auction industry. The Promotions Committee for 2022-23 are:
• John Schultz, AMM (Chair)
• Braden R. McCurdy, CAI, AARE, AMM (Vice Chair)
• Ailie Byers, CAI, AMM, BAS (EC Liaison)
• Phil Gableman, CAI, AMM, GPPA
• Willie Baker, CAI, AMM
• John John Genovese, CAI, AMM, BAS
• Daniel Pruitt, CAI
• Shane McCarrell, CES
• Jennie Wolff, CAI, AMM
Finally, the Education Institute Committee plays a pivotal role in providing comprehensive and quality education and training programs to auctioneers. They develop and deliver courses, seminars, and workshops that enhance professional skills, promote best practices, and ensure auctioneers stay up-todate with industry trends and regulations. By offering valuable educational resources, the Education Institute Committee empowers auctioneers to continuously improve their expertise and deliver exceptional services to clients. This committee's dedication to education and knowledgesharing fosters the growth and professionalism of auctioneers across the industry. The Current EI Trustees are:
• T. Kyle Swicegood, CAI, AARE, BAS, GPPA (Chair)
• Erik Rasmus, CAI, AMM (Vice Chair)
• Lance Walker, CAI, BAS, CES (NAA Board Representative)
• Anne Nouri, CAI, AARE, BAS, GPPA
• Trey Morris, CAI, BAS, CAS
• Sara Rose Bytnar, CAI, AARE, AMM, BAS
• Carol Miller, CAI, BAS
• Billie Jo Schultz, CAI, AMM
• Bridget Siler, CAI (EI Advisor)
Each of these committees, with their distinct duties, contributes to the growth, professionalism, and success of the National Auctioneers Association by advocating for auctioneers' rights, fostering a sense of community, promoting the auction method, and providing valuable educational resources.
None of these Committees can fulfill their duties without you! If you’re interested in serving on a Committee, or on one of the task forces they oversee, fill out the interest form at auctioneers.org/volunteer
Question: How can an auctioneer be prepared to try to avoid unintentionally causing an otherwise reserve auction to be converted by a court into an absolute auction long after the auction has closed?
Such an issue can have significant legal ramifications for the parties and the auctioneer if a dispute arises after the auction. The law is clear that, for legal purposes, the words used in an auction must be “explicit” for the sale to be classified and characterized as an auction without reserve. The presumption in contract law is that auctions are held “with reserve” unless otherwise specified. (See Pyles v. Goller.) There was a recent decision from the Appellate Court of Illinois that had to consider the issue of whether an art “auction” (as used by the court in that case) was with reserve or without reserve.
Prior to reviewing the case, below is a brief review of these issues for new readers and auctioneers. There are generally two methods to sell property at auction, either with reserve or without reserve. In an auction with reserve, an auctioneer calling for bids is making an invitation to enter into a contract, but is not making an offer to contract. In an auction with reserve, the seller retains the right to not sell the property and can withdraw the property from the auction prior to the acceptance of an offer. In an auction “without reserve”—commonly known as an absolute auction— the opening of bids by the auctioneer constitutes a firm offer, rather than an invitation to make an offer. The seller does not establish a minimum bid amount or retain the right to withdraw the property. In other words, an absolute auction is an auction where the property is sold to the highest qualified bidder with no limiting conditions or amount. With this in mind, we will now consider the specific case referenced earlier.
This recent Illinois case was about the potential sale of the painting known as Pommiers en fleurs (Apple Trees in Blossom) 1872 by Claude Monet. A Club that owned the painting was considering the possibility of selling it. An email was sent to an individual entitled “Request for Proposals” and stated:
“Good afternoon:
The … Club Board is meeting this week to review and consider proposals for the purchase of the ULCC’s Monet.
You have indicated that you or a party you know have an interest in purchasing the Monet. Due to various time constraints, we are asking you to submit your best and final offer on Thursday, January 14th by 5pm CST.
Include in your offer the following information:
• Amount of offer and net proceeds to the Seller
• Timetable for consummating sale and transfer of funds
• Caveat: * * * [this was a statement about when the buyer would be able to take possession of the Monet].
• Does the buyer have adequate readily available funds to consummate the purchase? If so, provide supporting information.
• Any other buyer conditions.
Please submit the proposal to President Nancy Ross with a copy to me. We may have follow up questions and ask for the best way to reach you.”
The Club subsequently received a letter from a bidder that stated:
“Dear Nancy, Thompson Fine Art Limited offer of purchase from Chicago Union Club Claude Monet (1840-1926)— Pommiers in fleurs (Apple Trees in Blossom) 1872
We act for Thompson Fine Art Limited.
We are instructed to make an offer on behalf of our client for the purchase of the following work of art (the “Work”):
Artist: Claude Monet (1840-1926)
Title: Pommiers en fleurs (Apple Trees in Blossom) 1872
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions 57.5 x 69.5 cm
Our client has a written offer to purchase from a credible purchaser whom our client has transacted with on numerous occasions and who has a significant private collection that is on public display. Our client has verified that the necessary funds required to purchase the Work are readily available. The offer of purchase is as follows:
1.Purchase price of USD $7,200,000 (Seven Million AND Two Hundred Thousand United States Dollars);
2. If the offer is accepted, the purchase is subject to the parties entering into a written sale and purchase contract in relation to the Work;
3. Our client’s purchaser does not require a viewing of the Work; and
4. * * * [A statement about when the possession would be desired.]
The offer is open for acceptance until 5 p.m. CST Friday 15 January 2021 and request that a response to our offer be provided prior to this time.
If the offer is acceptable and you agree with [the] terms offered, please counter sign below and return this document to us.”
The Club later informed the bidder that it did not intend to proceed with the sale. The Club never formally responded to the letter or signed the letter from the bidder. Afterwards, the bidder filed a lawsuit alleging breach of contract seeking to force the Club to sell the painting. The bidder argued that the email constituted an offer and that the letter was an acceptance of the offer. The bidder argued that the documents taken together constituted an enforceable agreement. The Club responded that it had not made an offer and the letter is received did not constitute an “acceptance” of an offer. The Club pointed out the letter used the terms “offer” or “offered” ten times and invited the Club to accept by requiring a countersignature and return. The trial court agreed that there was no contract formed and ruled in favor of the Club. The bidder then appealed that decision.
The Appellate Court of Illinois agreed with the trial court and found that the email and letter response did not constitute an enforceable agreement. For there to be a binding contract, there must be an offer, acceptance, consideration, and meeting of the minds. It decided that the statements made to the bidder and the email were not an offer. The Court reasoned: “The email contains numerous hallmarks of an invitation to deal. The subject line of the email stated, ‘Request for Proposals,’ and Tunney asked that any interested party ‘submit [their] best and final offer.’ Tunney further stated that the board was meeting during the week to ‘review and consider proposals for the purchase of the ULCC’s Monet.’ As with Ross’s statements, no ‘power of acceptance’ was created in Thompson because the Club would need to ‘review and consider’ any proposal. Finally, Tunney requested the interested party’s contact information in the event the Club had questions.” Instead, the Court reasoned that the letter from the bidder made an offer to purchase. It stated “The letter is described as an offer numerous times. The letter speaks of the potential for the Club to accept the offer. The letter concluded that if ‘the offer is acceptable and you agree with [the] terms offered, please counter sign below and return this document to us.’” The bidder’s letter was also the first time a definitive price was proposed, which is an essential term of a contract. The Court said: “At best, the communications jointly could be viewed as the solicitation of an offer.”
The bidder argued that the email and other statements (to the effect that the Club would sell to the “highest and best” bid) created an auction without reserve, where the Club would be bound to sell the painting to the highest bidder, regardless of whether the Club found the bid satisfactory. The Court disagreed and relied on Section 2-328 of the Uniform
Commercial Code that was adopted in Illinois. The Court stated: “The statute provides that an auction sale is ‘with reserve unless the goods are in explicit terms put up without reserve.’ ‘In an auction with reserve the auctioneer may withdraw the goods at any time until he announces completion of the sale.’ ‘In an auction without reserve, after the auctioneer calls for bids on an article or lot, that article or lot cannot be withdrawn unless no bid is made within a reasonable time.’ Thus, the general rule is that a seller can withdraw an item from sale either before or during an auction.”
In conclusion, auctioneers need to be aware of this issue and be careful to avoid language that could unintentionally convert an otherwise reserve auction to an auction without reserve. The presumption is that the auction sale is with reserve unless there is explicit language that the goods are being put up without reserve. Auctioneers should exercise caution in their communications with bidders and be consistent.
Kurt R. Bachman and Beers Mallers Backs & Salin, LLP appreciate the opportunity to review and answer legal questions that will be of interest to Auctioneers. The answers to these questions are designed to provide information of general interest to the public and are not intended to offer legal advice about specific situations or problems. Kurt R. Bachman and Beers Mallers Backs & Salin, LLP do not intend to create an attorney-client relationship by offering this information, and anyone’s review of the information shall not be deemed to create such a relationship. You should consult a lawyer if you have a legal matter requiring attention.
Kurt R. Bachman and Beers Mallers Backs & Salin, LLP also advise that any information you send to Auctioneer shall not be deemed secure or confidential. Please visit one of our offices to ensure complete confidentiality.
Contact Kurt Bachman: (260) 463-4949 krbachman@beersmallers.com
We are excited that you have chosen to join us as we explore NEW FRONTIERS at the NAA’s 74th International Auctioneers Conference and Show. The auction landscape is changing and the NAA provides you with what you need to be on the leading edge of business and service. There are plenty of educational sessions to choose from as well as daily networking opportunities. Visit Conferenceandshow.com for the Conference schedule.
We hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your upcoming experience.
• Conference attire is business casual for the week. The President's Gala is more formal; professional business attire is typical. The Welcome Party is held at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. A relaxed, casual attire is appropriate.
• Dressing for the week with the option of layers is encouraged as it can be chilly, or even cold, indoors. Oklahoma City weather can be hot and humid. In July, the average high is 94 and low is 71.
• The essentials—to gather and be sure you can easily access:
1. A valid id, your hotel reservation and Conference registration confirmations.
2. Plenty of business cards to share as you network with colleagues and vendors.
3. Many places are cashless, including NAA Registration. To be fully prepared, please bring various forms of payment.
• Download the NAA association app from your Play Store on Android Devices or the App Store on your Apple Devices. The App will enable you to see who is in attendance and connect with one another, create your own schedule, and the map for way-finding.
• To get the most out of your conference experience, thoroughly review the daily schedule, determine which functions are most important and applicable for you to attend. Add sessions to your calendar in advance so you can spend your evenings onsite catching up with friends.
The Omni Hotel is about 10 miles from the Will Rogers World Airport (OKC). There are several ways to travel to and from the airport. A list of transportation options can be found at flyokc.com/publictransportation#item-1.
For the convenience and comfort of guests, Omni offers overnight and hourly valet parking on property. Otherwise, visit parkingokc.com for information on parking in downtown Oklahoma City.
For an easy, efficient, and affordable way to get around OK City, the Steet Car stop conveniently located steps outside the hotel. For Street Car and other transportation options, go to visitokc.com/ plan-your-visit/transportation.
The conference events are located on the second floor of the Omni Hotel. Once you get checked-in, mosey around the hotel’s first and second floor over to familiarize yourself to where the meeting rooms are located, and locate the emergency exits.
Registration packets are available for pickup beginning at 2 pm, Tuesday, July 18, in the Five Moons Ballroom 4-5.
The NAA is going cashless. Bring various forms of payment so you are fully prepared.
We look forward to seeing you in Oklahoma City!
What spurred your decision to run for a position on the NAA Board?
Over the past five years, I have had the privilege of serving on the NAA Board of Directors, first as a Director and now as Treasurer. It has been a gratifying experience to witness the Association’s progress and the paths we are taking to get there. Although the role has presented its share of challenges, it has been fulfilling to contribute to positioning the Association for future stability and growth. While making an impact in the present is rewarding, the prospect of implementing longterm changes that will drive incredible growth and pave the way for new opportunities is even more exciting. The Board is transitioning into a more strategic role, delegating operational responsibilities to committees that have a more hands-on understanding of their respective communities and how to address their needs.
I am eager to continue working towards positioning the NAA as the preeminent voice of the auction profession, setting the standard for the industry as a whole.
What is the most pressing issue for the auction industry?
Today, just as it was two years ago, change remains a constant force in our industry. From advancements in technology and advertising to shifts in staffing and buyer/ seller demographics, everything is evolving. Technological innovations, workforce adjustments, and regulatory developments have impacted us all professionally to some degree. While all workplaces experience change, the pace and high-stakes choices we face today are unparalleled. However, as an association, we have seen that sharing best practices, adaptations, and solutions can lead to greater success for everyone. Our community is our source of strength, and we must embrace these changes and work together to achieve collective success.
What specific initiative would you like to see included as NAA looks toward 2030 and beyond?
The PACE to 2030 strategic plan, with its four cornerstones of Promotion, Advocacy, Community, and Education, has been instrumental in guiding the Association towards defined outcomes over the past three years. However, like any strategic initiative, it is a constantly evolving process as new challenges arise, and opportunities emerge. At
the upcoming Conference & Show, we will announce significant progress made towards achieving these objectives.
Nonetheless, our work is far from complete. To remain relevant in today’s rapidly changing marketplaces and demographics, we must reach out to new spaces and places that have not traditionally had auctions or experienced their success.
We must continue to develop innovative and adaptable educational offerings and explore new methods of delivering them to our members.
Furthermore, as industry consolidation persists, it is essential to engage with strategic partners and enhance our knowledge sharing. By doing so, we can explore new, collaborative approaches and better position ourselves for future success.
The current climate is ripe with opportunities for change and modernization in our industry. Many of our peers have already expanded into new sectors or transformed their businesses into innovative versions of their previous structures. Tremendous strides have been made in adapting to new customer needs and finding fresh avenues to attract buyers and sellers. Integrations within companies and partnerships with other firms are happening at an increasingly rapid pace.
However, amidst these changes, we cannot overlook the significant impact of legislation and regulations on our industry. It is no longer possible to work solely within our intimate bubbles, as we must remain vigilant and informed about external factors that could affect our work. Despite these challenges, the auction method of marketing continues to gain widespread acceptance due to its speed, transparency, and efficiency. As more individuals embrace this approach, it creates a stronger marketplace for our industry to thrive and prosper.
Why did you join NAA initially, and what can a member do to get the most out of their membership?
The Association is a unique community of colleagues, whose collective expertise and experience is unparalleled in our industry. NAA members are making significant strides and innovative leaps forward across all sectors and asset classes. To not tap into this vast
knowledge base and network of professionals would be a tremendous mistake for anyone, including myself.
For members seeking to get the most out of their membership, active engagement is essential. This means attending webinars, taking classes, participating in seminars and conferences, and connecting with other members. Those who engage in these activities tend to become lifelong members and firm believers in the value of the Association. They recognize that experts in the field are just a phone call or text away, and that a quick Zoom call can clinch the next big deal or collaboration.
These intangible benefits go beyond the tangible perks, such as the magazine, discounts, blog, reduced fees for education, books, guides, and other resources that many members cite as helpful in their early years and professional growth. Ultimately, it is the personal connections and relationships forged through the Association that can truly take a member’s career to the next level.
Candidates for vice president and director positions were featured in the April/May 2023 issue, pages 22-25.
Winners will be announced at a ceremony during NAA's Conference & Show in Oklahoma City. Winners will also be interviewed for the October/ November issue of Auctioneer.
What sparked your interest in becoming an auction professional?
I was selling donated cars for charity at my retail car lot and really didn’t like the “used car business” as it didn’t really work well for the type of cars I was selling. I started thinking of other ways to sell them and it dawned on me that I should have an auction. New Mexico doesn’t have a ton of auctioneers, but I figured since I enjoyed going to auctions, l really should look into it.
What road did you take to get there?
I’m a first-generation auctioneer and figured I could use training. After looking
at various auction schools, I decided on Worldwide College of Auctioneering. I was a fish out of water and could barely count to 10. One of my instructors, JillMarie Wiles, was such an inspiration that I stuck it out. It was then I started my own auction company. I take every opportunity to learn from others and apprenticed with several local auctions companies.
Were there any challenges you faced?
I’ve faced many challenges getting started. Creating an auction company was quite an undertaking. There is no blueprint, but through apprenticeships and continued
training I’m overcoming the obstacles. We just get out there and do it and figure it out as we go, and hope we don’t lose our shirts! For example, there are so many auction software and systems out there, choosing the right takes time becuase of so many differing opinions on systems and paths to take.
Has your perception of the auction industry changed since you started? If so, how?
I’ve grown to love it more and more. The auction method of marketing was something I could not get my arms around in the beginning, but as I’ve worked in the business, I see it’s a superior method. We started just
before pandemic and was building towards a live auction, but the state had different thoughts and closed our dealership and live activities, so we shifted online and haven’t looked back. We can now do live or simulcast depending on situations.
Why do you love what you do?
I love everything automotive and charity. We started our businesses after I retired from the Unites States Air Force. I wanted to do something automotive, but also continue to serve my community. So we started our dealership to help charities sell donated vehicles. That took off as well as the auction company. We’re now doing vehicles, estates, and government surplus auctions. Our focus over the near term is anything automotive while building our government contracting expertise. We recently won a contract to do our state Department of Transportation surplus vehicles and equipment, so that was a great experience.
What do you think is the biggest thing (or things) auction professions can do to stay relevant?
For us, it’s to continuously learn and grow.
We have to keep up with technology and what consumers are doing. We focus heavily on being better marketers while also building relationships. We recently have started using ChatGPT to help our marketing efforts and that has saved us time to do other things. Our efforts have led us to be the #1 rated auction company in New Mexico.
Now has the NAA helped you become a better auction professional?
This is one profession that I feel everyone wants to see you succeed and grow. I’ve been taking lots of training and anytime I need help, I search for those topics. I try to attend the chats and other offerings. I look forward to enrolling in CAI soon and want to attend my first conference this year. I’ve reached out to mentors and just learned so much about the industry by reading and being a member of NAA. Last year we completed AMM and that helped us in our marketing efforts.
What do you find most rewarding about this point in your career?
The most rewarding part is to be able to provide for my family while doing something I love. We also enjoy helping families and
agencies solve their problems. By listening to our clients, we can come up solutions to meet their needs. We want to make it easy for a family dealing with loss by lifting some of the burden off their shoulders. I love learning and building a business, so starting from scratch as a first-generation auctioneer has been exciting. We look forward to growing and building our business.
PATHLMS.COM/NAA
CONFERENCE, DESIGNATIONS, ISERIES, MICROLEARNING, SUMMITS
Zachary W. Anderson
Midwest Land Management
Spencer, IA
Mike Baker
Midwest Auctioneers Inc.
Greenville, OH
Anna Boesl
Hansen Auction Group
Downing, WI
Jeffrey C. Bosch
Huyden Outdoors Real Estate
Great Bend, KS
Tarrance Bradley Coldwell Banker Prime Camillus, NY
Shane Brant
Midwest Land Management
Spencer, IA
William Warren Cook Auctions By Cook LLC
Oklahoma City, OK
Chris Cox Ohio Real Estate Auctions
Grove City, OH
Brent Croom
Top Tier Auctions
Dyer, TN
Marcus L. Davis Marcka Auction Services
Crossville, TN
Lee Averitt Derryberry
Decaturvillle, TN
Jeffrey Miles Ditzenberger
BigIron
Monroe, WI
Tracy Dixon R & T Auctions
Niagrara Falls, ON Canada
Robert Allan Dunker Dunker Auction Service
Marthasville, MO
Andrea Dunn Auction Marketing Partners Kodak, TN
Rider Lee Evans M H Bar Auctions
Colorado Springs, CO
Quest Flesner
Hannibal, MO
Dana Fuentes
Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals
Anchorage, AK
Tom Hall
Monmouth, IL
Preston Hardee
Preston Hardee Auction LLC
Ocala, FL
Spencer Howell
Taking Bids Benefit Auctions, LLC
Lenexa, KS
AJ Jones McCurdy Real Estate & Auction
Wichita, KS
Peter Leipzig
McKinleyville, CA
Brent LeMay
Oakland, MD
Timothy J. Look
Frozen in Time Treasures
Burton, MI
Jordan Lorentz Clearwater, MN
Nate MacFadden
MacFadden and Sons
Sharon Springs, NY
Kimberly Marcelli
Platinum Fundraising & Auctions
Sacramento, CA
Steve Marriott
Marriotts Auction Service
Elkville, IL
Thomas L. McConathy
Red Bird Auction Company
Saint Francisville, LA
Tyler Cade McConathy
Red Bird Auction Company
Ruston, LA
Magen McRoberts
Boundless Impact Agency
Atlanta, GA
Hector Alberto Medina
Santa Teresa Live Stock Auctions
Santa Teresa, NM
Matt Meeks
Omegaa Auctions LLC
Corinth, MS
Jeremy L. Miller
Lippard Auctioneers
Fairland, OK
Samantha J. Obitz
Hansen Auction Group Downing, WI
Nathan S. Obitz Hansen Auction Group Downing, WI
Corey R. Oelklaus Twisted Valley Cattle Shawnee, OK
Shannan Paul Miss Shannan Paul - Event Auctioneer Minneapolis, MN
Kent M. Popham Castlewood, SD
Brandon Presley Madisonville, TN
Jason Reed McCurdy Real Estate & Auction Wichita, KS
Tony Rissley Expo Auctions Buford, GA
Jean Roberts Mast Auctioneers | RES Auction Services Wooster, OH
David E. Sanders Denison, TX
Christine Sawyers Thompsons Station, TN
Todd Allen Short Charleston, WV
Jess Spradlin Spradlin Auction & Real Estate
Jacksonville, IL
Charles K. Stenger BGR Auctions New Albany, OH
Levi Allen Stoltzfus Kite, GA
Kenton L. Stover Russellville, MO
Derik Timmerman Sparrow Nonprofit Solutions Golden, CO
Taylor N. Toler Rogers Realty & Auction Co, Inc. Ridgeway, VA
Janet Tripp
Hansen Auction Group Downing, WI
Jill Alison Vaughan Munford, AL
Journey Marie Werner Anaheim, CA
Stephanie Wilson Messiers Auction Services Camden, NY
Reid Yoder Harlan, IN
Spencer Young BidWiregrass Pavo, GA
New members that joined between April 1–May31, 2023.
Congratulations
our Winter in-Person Graduates! The Southeastern School of Auctioneering graduated 15 students during
our Winter
marks
40th
More information about the school and new sessions can be found at SSAuctioneering.com or by calling 864903-3160.
Obituaries may be submitted to communications@auctioneers.org. Submissions may be edited for length. Hi-resolution photos and information about NAA and industry involvement appreciated. Editors will do their best to locate photos if none are submitted.
On Thursday, March, 23, Sharon Ling Kurtz, 82, of Owensboro, passed away under the care of Hospice of Western Kentucky. Sharon was born in Covington, Kentucky, to the late Roger Leroy Ling and Mary Alphonsine Gray Ling on February 3, 1941. She attended Southgate Public Schools and graduated from Fort Thomas Highlands High School in 1959. At the end of the summer break, her former first-grade teacher passed away unexpectedly, and Sharon received an emergency teaching certificate to teach first grade while attending Northern Kentucky University for her freshman year of college. She transferred to Kentucky Wesleyan College (KWC) to complete her BS degree in English and Speech. Sharon received her Masters degree from Western Kentucky University in 1964 and married William Burton Kurtz two weeks later. They had met at KWC. After their
Nicholas Peter Clark, age 75, passed away in Tunica, MS, on May 5, 2023. Nick was born in Stuttgart, Germany, to Lillian and Gordon Clark on October 4, 1947. He attended Provine High School, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Mississippi State. He joined the Army during the Vietnam era and became a U.S. Army Ranger and a HALO paratrooper. He left the military honorably with the rank of Lieutenant.
Nick married his high school sweetheart Linda Polk Clark on August 6, 1995. Together they shared Stacy Turcotte Michael and William S. Turcotte, Jr. He is survived by his wife Linda, son Will and granddaughters Christen Michael and Madison Michael. His daughter, Stacy Michael preceded him.
He served with the Hinds County Sheriff's
marriage, she was an Associate Professor of English at KWC for several years.
Sharon served as an NAA Auxiliary President and board member and was inducted into the NAA Hall of Fame in 2008. She was also a Kentucky Auctioneers Auxiliary Founding Member and Past-President, and a Delegate to The Auctioneers Consortium of The Pacific Rim in Beijing, China.
Some of her other memberships and offices held include Kappa Delta Sorority, Owensboro Junior League, Fleur de Lis Garden Club, Women’s Guild, Salvation Army Auxiliary (founding member and past president) and Advisory Board, Daviess County Parks Board, Friendship Force Exchange Director to Berlin Germany, Married Ladies Reading Club, Western Kentucky Botanical Garden Board Member, Master Gardner designation, Kurtz Auction & Realty Company owner, officer, realtor, and auction clerk, and member of Settle Memorial United Methodist Church.
Department for 31 years, was a command staff member, and oversaw the city impound lot auctions. He was also involved in the sheriff department's vice and narcotics sting operations and served as the longest-serving commander of the reserves, receiving many awards during his tenure. Clark's most recent role was Captain of the Reserves Unit.
He was the owner/operator of Nick Clark Printing, and Nick Clark Auctions and Estate Sales while being the broker and a certified appraiser for his company.
Sources: https://www.wlbt.com/2023/05/05/ jackson-businessman-hinds-county-reserveofficer-nick-clark-dies/?outputType=amp&fbcli d=IwAR3lgW8haSV9lmKXl23iNIUMsn77zV6 xh4-tIjI7C6WQ4sqE4YjJlaPJyY8 • https://www. dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/ridgelandms/nicholas-clark-11280176 • https://faa. auctioneers.org/profile.php?auctioneer=87251
Source: https://obits.glennfuneralhome.com/ sharon-kurtz
President
Sherman Hostetter, CAI, AARE, BAS, CES, GPPA (724) 847-1887 sherm@sherm.biz
Vice President
Lance Walker, CAI, BAS, CES (901) 322-2139 lance@walkerauctions.com
Treasurer
Ailie Byers, CAI, AMM, BAS (603) 356-5765 ailie@alpenglowbenefits.com
Board Chair
Beth Rose, CAI, AARE, AMM (419) 534-6223 beth@bethroseauction.com
Chief Executive Officer
Aaron Ensminger, CAE (913) 563-5423
aensminger@auctioneers.org
DIRECTORS
Term expiring 2023
Trisha Brauer, CAI, BAS (913) 481-8280
trisha@takingbids fundraising.com
Philip Gableman, CAI, AMM, GPPA (845) 635-3169
philipg103@gmail.com
Term expiring 2024
Jay Cash, BAS, CES (615) 785-8982
jaycash@me.com
Morgan Hopson, CAI (903) 271-9933
mhopson@buford resources.com
Term expiring 2025
Mike Fisher, CAI, AARE, AMM, BAS, CES, GPPA (256) 413-0555
mikefisher@redfieldgroup.com
Joff Van Reenen, CAI, AARE +27116842707
joff@highstreetauctions.com
Chair of Education Institute Trustees
T. Kyle Swicegood, CAI, AARE, BAS, GPPA (336) 751-4444
tkyleswicegood@gmail.com
Foundation Representative Scott Mihalic, CAI (440) 796-4739
scottmihalic@gmail.com
Presidential Appointee
Chris Rasmus, CAI, AMM (703) 768-9000
c.rasmus@rasmus.com
Chair
T. Kyle Swicegood, CAI, BAS, GPPA (336) 751-4444 tkyleswicegood@ gmail.com
Vice Chair
Erik Rasmus, CAI, AMM (703) 768-9000 erikrasmus@rasmus.com
EC Liaison
Lance Walker, CAI, BAS, CES (901) 322-2139 lance@walkerauctions.com
COMMUNITY COMMITTEE
Chair
Morgan Hopson, CAI (903) 271-9933
mhopson@buford resources.com
Vice Chair
Peter Gehres, CAI, CAS, CES (614) 306-1435 petergehres@gmail.com
EC Liaison
Beth Rose, CAI, AARE, AMM (419) 534-6223 beth@bethroseauction.com
PROMOTIONS COMMITTEE
Chair
John Schultz, AMM (612) 432-4015
john@grafeauction.com
Vice Chair
Braden McCurdy, CAI, AARE, AMM (316) 867-3600
bmccurdy@mccurdy auction.com
EC Liaison
Ailie Byers, CAI, AMM, BAS (603) 356-5765
ailie@alpenglowbenefits.com
ADVOCACY COMMITTEE
Chair
Wade Baer, CAI, AMM (330) 424-2705
wade@baerauctions.com
EC Liaison
Sherman Hostetter, CAI, AARE, BAS, CES, GPPA (724) 847-1887
sherm@sherm.biz
OFFICERS
President
Sid Miedema, Jr., CAI (616) 538-0367 sid@1800lastbid.com
Vice President
Scott Mihalic, CAI (440) 796-4739 scottmihalic@gmail.com
Immediate Past President
Jennifer Gableman, CAI, ATS (845) 635-3169 x102 jennifer@aarauctions.com
Treasurer
David Hart, CAI, AARE (229) 985-8388 dhart@rowellauctions.com
Terms expiring 2023
Merle D. Booker, CAI, GPPA (509) 297-9292 merle@bookerauction.com
Ruth Lind, CAI, AARE, BAS, GPPA (207) 751-1430 moxielady@me.com
Megan McCurdy Niedens, CAI, BAS (316) 683-0612 megan@mccurdy auction.com
Terms expiring 2024 Judd Grafe (800) 328-5920 judd@grafeauction.com
Bracky Mark Rogers, CAI, AARE, AMM (336) 789-2926 x109 bmrogers@rogersrealty.com
Michael Upp (866) 540-4993 mupp@mitchstuart.com
Terms expiring 2025 Barrett Bray, CAI, AMM, BAS (405) 888-5366 barrett@bidbray.com
Tim Mast, CAI, AARE (731) 610-5436 tmast@tranzon.com
Terri Walker, CAI, BAS, CES (901) 322-2139 terri@walkerauctions.com
NAA BOARD REPRESENTATIVE
Beth Rose, CAI, AARE, AMM (419) 534-6223 beth@bethroseauction.com
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Aaron Ensminger, CAE (913) 563-5423 aensminger@auctioneers.org
FOUNDATION ADMINISTRATOR
Rebekah Ferguson (913) 563-5431 rferguson@auctioneers.org
50 years ago, the NAA was gearing up for Conference & Show and announcing their slate of activities and event schedule. 1981 Hall of Fame member C.P. “Terry” Dunning makes an appearance as “possibly the youngest man ever elected to the NAA Board of Directors.” Funny enough, the article does not state his age, so it’s left up to speculation. Also, a fun picture of Rodger Dyer, one of Alabama’s youngest auctioneers at the time.
