AASP-MN News November 2014

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November 2014

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CONTENTS Vol. 22 No. 11

AASP News is the official publication of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers, Minnesota, Inc. 1970 Oakcrest Ave., Suite 102 • Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 612-623-1110 • Fax: 612-623-1122 email: aasp@aaspmn.org • website: aaspmn.org. All rights reserved. To keep its readers better informed, AASP News allows its columnists to fully express their opinions. All views expressed are not necessarily those of the publication. AASP-MN News is published by Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. Cover image, pg. 10, pg. 21 © www.thinkstockphoto.com.

AASP of Minnesota is an association of independently-owned automotive service businesses and industry suppliers dedicated to improving the state’s automotive service industry and the success of its members.

AASP-MN BOARD MEMBERS 2014 - 2015 PRESIDENT Jerald Stiele

COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE ..............................................6 Are You Prepared?

by Joyce Weinhandl, AASP-MN Collision Division Director LEGISLATIVE UPDATE ..........................................................................7 Legislation Would Retain Business Decision-Making For Shops

by Kevin Walli, AASP-MN Lobbyist AASP-MN’s Race For Automotive Education Registration..................................8 LOCAL NEWS ....................................................................................10

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Dan Sjolseth, AAM SECRETARY-TREASURER Tom Gleason COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR Joyce Weinhandl MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTOR Greg Kasel, AAM ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR Kevin Martin COLLISION SEAT Mike Cox, AAM Jim Siegfried, AAM

PARTNERS IN PREVENTION ....................................................................14 Burning Used Oil INSURANCE I.Q. ..................................................................................15 It’s Time to Change the Way You Think About Life Insurance MEET THE MEMBER ..............................................................................18 Noble Conservation Solutions CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP! ............................................................22 AASP-MN and Identifix Help You Boost Production on Every Car, Every Day

CALENDAR OF EVENTS November 12 & 13, 2014 “Preparing for an OSHA Inspection”

MECHANICAL SEAT Wayne Watson

Workshop 11:30am – 1:30pm AASP-MN Office, Roseville

January 13, 14, 15, 2015 Race for Automotive Education ProKart Indoor Racing, Burnsville

April 15 - 17, 2015 AASP-MN Annual Meeting & Convention Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West, Plymouth

STAFF For more information or to register, contact the AASP-MN Office at (612) 623-1110

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Judell Anderson, CAE, AAM OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Jodi Pillsbury MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR Tom Kluver PUBLISHED BY: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 244 Chestnut St., Suite 202 Nutley, NJ 07110 PHONE: 973-667-6922 • FAX: 973-235-1963 PUBLISHER: Thomas Greco (thomas@grecopublishing.com) DIRECTOR OF SALES: Alicia Figurelli (alicia@grecopublishing.com) MANAGING EDITOR: Jacquelyn Bauman (jacquelyn@grecopublishing.com) EDITOR: Joel Gausten (tgpjoel@verizon.net) ART DIRECTOR: Lea Velocci (lea@grecopublishing.com) OFFICE MANAGER: Sofia Cabrera (tgp4@verizon.net) www.grecopublishing.com

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX aaa Auto Salvage ......................................3 AmeriPride ................................................6 Buerkle Hyundai ........................................3 Choice Auto Rentals ..................................16 C.H.E.S.S. ................................................19 Dentsmart ..................................................14 Inver Grove Honda / Inver Grove Toyota..........IFC Jack McClard ............................................IFC Keystone....................................................4 Lowell’s PCE..............................................7 Maplewood Toyota ....................................16 Meadowbrook............................................21 Mercedes Benz of Maplewood ..................4

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Mills Parts Center......................................9 Morrie’s ....................................................19 Motorwerks BMW......................................IBC Motorwerks Mini ......................................IBC MPA ............................................................................12-13 NAPA ........................................................20 Pam’s Auto.................................................20 Proven Force..............................................17 Rosedale Chevrolet....................................9 Roseville Chrysler ....................................9 Straight & Square ......................................18 Toyota Group ............................................OBC

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COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

Are You Prepared?

by Joyce Weinhandl, AASP-MN Collision Division Director

Deer season is coming; are you prepared? These words are used in our industry, but by no means do we mean to underscore the severity of being in an accident. These accidents can be by a deer, a raccoon or even a mailbox. Statistically, all of us will encounter an automobile accident every seven to 10 years.

Auto accidents are unexpected and stressful. Even the most careful drivers may be involved. There are so many questions that we ask ourselves: Should I call the police? Should I move my car? Is it safe to drive home?

To begin with, what to do before an accident can help alleviate the stress when it does happen. We recommend that you keep

a copy of your insurance information and a pen and paper in your glove box. You are required by law to have proof of your insurance with you, and your insurance company provides cards that carry all of your relevant insurance information.

All of the members of AASP-MN understand that getting in a car accident can be a stressful situation. We want to make sure that all of our customers are safe and, if involved in an accident, that the only thing to fix is the car.

The following is a list of recommendations to follow when involved in an accident: • Stay calm.

• Stop your vehicle if it is clear, safe

and legal.

• Move the vehicle out of the traveled roadway if it is clear, safe and legal.

• Turn off the ignitions of the cars involved.

• Make a first aid check of all persons involved in the accident.

• Call the police and, if necessary, emergency medical services, immediately.

• Gather the names of all persons in the motor vehicles and people who witnessed the accident.

• Make a diagram of where the vehicle occupants were seated and indicate the vehicles’ direction of travel and lane. Also note the date, time and weather conditions. Many insurance companies have apps that one can download just for this situation.

• Take photos of the damage if it is clear, safe and legal.

• Ask to see the other driver’s license and write down the number.

• Exchange insurance company information.

•DO NOT discuss “fault” or make statements about the accident to anyone but the police.

• Get a copy of the police report of the accident from the local precinct.

After the accident, it is important to do the following: • Report the accident to your insurance company. Give them all information you’ve gathered on the Accident Report Form and the police report.

• Make a claim with your insurance company and/or the other parties.

• Call an AASP-MN member body shop to set up a time to drop off your vehicle for repair.

continued on pg. 21

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Legislation Would Retain Business Decision-Making For Shops AASP-MN will be renewing legislative efforts in 2015 to protect the autonomy of repair shop owners when it comes to business decisions.

For several years, collision shops have noted a trend on the part of insurers interjecting more and more mandates on the decisions shops make in the repair process. Insurers are increasingly dictating vendors, products and processes that must be used in their DRP programs.

As a result, shops must sometimes incur duplicate costs or work with vendors with whom they don’t have a regular working relationship.

In either case, there is typically no benefit for the insured or claimant, and some insurance company mandates can even increase cycle time, which is a detriment to everyone, including the insured.

As we prepare for the 2015 Session, AASP-MN is

by Kevin Walli, AASP-MN Lobbyist

scheduling meetings with key legislators to seek their support for AASP-MN legislation. Our early focus has been on members of the Minnesota Senate – since they are not facing reelection. With the election behind us, we will be shifting more attention to the Minnesota House, where all 134 seats were contested this fall.

The Minnesota Legislature will convene on January 6. We are planning to have our AASP-MN bill introduced in the first week of the Session. We will be asking collision shops to reach out to your legislators prior to and in the early weeks of the Session to urge them to support our efforts to level the playing field for insurance claims practices.

Welcome New Members:

OCTOBER 2014 Alberg Auto Sturgeon Lake Auto Body Excellence Farmington Auto Doctor Car Care Center Hastings Lloyd’s 75 Service Breckenridge Richland Repair Faribault Ron’s Repair Service Owatonna

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START YOUR ENGINES!

13th Annual Race for Automotive Education January 13, 14 & 15, 2015 6:30 - 9:00 pm ProKart Indoor Racing

14350 Rosemount Dr., Burnsville, MN 55306

A fundraiser to support the AASP-MN Automotive Education Fund...

Enhancing opportunities in automotive education through scholarships, program support and partnerships.

Start your engines!

Organize your team today. This event makes a great employee outing! The competition will consist of up to 12 teams each night with 5 members each and a crew chief.

These ain’t your daddy’s go karts!

ProKart features the world’s finest European karts, equipped with 6.5 HP Honda engines, reaching speeds of up to 40 mph!! State-ofthe-art computerized timing equipment adds a competitive edge to the total race experience.

All proceeds will benefit the AASP-MN Automotive Education Fund

When the final checkered flag waves and the adrenaline subsides, our goal is to raise $11,000 over the three nights. The majority of that money is earmarked to fund scholarships for students entering the second year of a two-year, NATEF-certified automotive program (collision or mechanical) in the state of Minnesota. Scholarship awards will be $1,000 per student, and will be distributed in the fall of 2015.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE DECEMBER 20th!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------The race is on! Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Race for Automotive Education is sure to be a sell-out event, so don’t delay – register today!

_____Team Sponsor $500 (Includes admission for 6, including team captain and 5 racers) Team Name:___________________________________________________ Team Captain:__________________________________ Address:______________________________________________City:___________________________Zip:____________________ Phone:_________________________Fax:_______________________email:_____________________________________________

Preferred Race Night:

_______Tuesday 1/13/15

_______Wednesday 1/14/15

_______Thursday 1/15/15

_____Race Sponsor $250 Racing is not in my blood, but I would like to support automotive students and programs in Minnesota (Includes admission for 2 spectators)

Sponsor Name:_______________________________________Company:________________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________City:__________________________Zip:____________________________ Phone:______________________Fax:____________________Email:___________________________________________________

Return with payment to: AASP-MN Automotive Education Fund 1970 Oakcrest Ave., Suite 102, Roseville, MN 55113 Phone: 612-623-1110 Fax: 612-623-1122

The AASP-MN Education Fund provides financial resources to support automotive students, enhance automotive programs and raise awareness of career opportunities in the independent automotive service industry.

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LOCAL NEWS AASP-MN Seeking Volunteer Leaders AASP-MN is looking for automotive industry professionals who are interested in advancing the industry by serving in leadership positions on the Association’s Board of Directors and Advisory Committees.

A number of positions are open on the Collision, Mechanical and Associate Advisory Committees, as well as the Government/ Regulatory Affairs and Education/Training Committees. There are also two seats open on the AASP-MN Board of Directors, one collision and one mechanical.

If you have a personal interest, or would like to nominate someone else, contact the Nominating Committee Chair, Dan Sjolseth of Superior Service Center, at 651-454-5522 or the AASP-MN office at 612-623-1110 or 800-852-9071.

Current Board Members & Term Expiration Date • Jerald Stiele, Hopkins Auto Body, President, 3/31/16 • Tom Gleason, Pro-Tech Auto & Truck Repair, Secretary/Treasurer, 3/31/17 • Dan Sjolseth, AAM, Superior Service Center, Immediate Past President, 3/31/15 • Kevin Martin, PPG, Associate Division Director, 3/31/16 • Greg Kasel, Downtown Tire & Auto, Mechanical Division Director, 3/31/16 • Joyce Weinhandl, Twin City Auto Body, Collision Division Director, 3/31/16 • Mike Cox, Ed’s Collision Center, Collision Seat, 3/31/15 • Wayne Watson, Auto Works Diagnostics & Repair, Mechanical Seat, 3/31/17 • Jim Siegfried, Crystal Lake Automotive, Collision Seat, 3/31/17 Year-Long Sponsorships Available AASP-MN is seeking support from its Associate members and industry suppliers to participate in its new year-long sponsorship program. Each sponsorship level and à la carte option provides enhanced benefits and opportunities to put your company’s name in front of the best automotive service professionals in the state AASP-MN members.

Year-Long Sponsors receive: Increased Visibility: • Put their company name and representatives in front of key shop decision makers • Gain exposure and take advantage of premium visibility with the top shops in the state • Position their company as a strategic partner for the future

Easier Budgeting: • Set the annual budget and customize their sponsorship for the entire year • Hassle-free payment options

AASP-MN Hits “Grand Slam” With Fall Educational Programs and Activities AASP-MN kicked off its fall events with “A Night Out With the Twins,” on Friday, September 19 at Target Field, Minneapolis.

Sixty-five AASP-MN members, families and friends enjoyed the game against the Cleveland Indians. The Twins managed to pull off a comeback victory, winning the game 5-4 in the tenth inning.

On October 8 and 9, AASP-MN hosted “Gasoline Direct Injection & GM GDI Diagnostics” and “Variable Cam Timing” at EP Auto, Tire & Glass, Eden Prairie.

The “Gasoline Direct Injection & GM GDI Diagnostics” class covered GDI operation, theory, diagnostics and service procedures applicable to most manufacturers using GDI today. Testing techniques using the GM Scan tool (GDS2) and a lab scope were also emphasized.

“Variable Cam Timing” was a case study-based class. Specific manufacturers’ strategies and testing procedures were discussed using broken vehicles.

The classes, presented by industry expert John Thornton, were very well received by nearly 30 students who participated each night. “John’s class was excellent,” noted Ralph Dahlen of Identifix. “He does an exceptional job of illustrating real-world testing.”

AASP-MN hosted a B.S. Session for collision shops on October 15 at Grumpy’s Bar and Grill, Roseville and a Mech XChange session for mechanical shops on October 22 at the AASP-MN office.

The B.S. Session focused on preparing for aluminum repair. The Mech XChange consisted of roundtable discussions on the various ways of handling compensation for employee training and the pros and cons of extended shop hours.

And...

• Exclusive opportunities only available to participating sponsors

If you would like more information about the 2015 Sponsorship Opportunities, visit www.aaspmn.org or contact the AASPMN office at 612-623-1110 or 800-852-9071.

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Finally, on November 12 and 13, AASP-MN hosted “Preparing for an OSHA Inspection” at its offices in Roseville. The workshops, presented

by Carol Keyes and Janet Keyes of Complete Health, Environmental & Safety Services (CHESS), covered the most frequently-cited and most commonly-found OSHA violations in automotive repair facilities.

I-CAR/SkillsUSA Golf Outing a Success On Wednesday, September 10, the Minnesota I-CAR/SkillsUSA Committee held its annual golf outing at Crystal Lake Golf Club in Lakeville.

Although it was a windy and cold day, 91 industry professionals took to the course and enjoyed their time golfing and socializing. This year’s winning team was Charlie Hayes, John Anderson, Jim Lepley and Colleen Simmons.

The event raised over $14,000 to support technical college collision repair programs and students in Minnesota.

“The committee would like to thank all the sponsors who generously donated money and time to sponsor holes and run unique contests that made this event special, the golfers who participated and the many volunteers who helped run the event,” said Shawn Collins, tournament director.

If you would like to participate as a sponsor or golfer for the 2015 event, please contact Shawn Collins at smcollins2@mmm.com or visit the golf outing website at www.icargolf.com.

SAVE THE DATE! AASP-MN Annual Meeting & Convention April 15-17, 2015 Crowne Plaza Minneapolis West Plymouth, MN Watch for details as they become available in future issues of AASP News and on the Association’s website, www.aaspmn.org.

Greco Publishing Announces Hiring of Managing Editor Jacquelyn Bauman

Thomas Greco, President of Thomas Greco Publishing Inc., publishers of New Jersey Automotive, New England Automotive Report, Hammer & Dolly, AASP-MN News and Wisconsin Automotive News, has announced the hiring of Jacquelyn Bauman as the company’s new Managing Editor.

Bauman will be taking over for Alicia Figurelli, who was promoted to Vice President/Director of Sales of the company this past August. A 2013 graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, Bauman will oversee editorial in all Greco Publishing publications and will also actively participate in the management of the NORTHEAST® Automotive Services Trade Show.

“We are extremely excited to have Jacquelyn become a part of the TGP staff,” Greco says. “Her background and skills are a perfect fit for our company. We have a great team in place and are looking forward to continuing our role as one of the country’s top automotive repair publishers and trade show management companies.”

Jacquelyn Bauman can be contacted at 973-667-6922 (p) or 973-2351963 (f), or by email at Jacquelyn@grecopublishing.com.

AASP News

Thank You to our Sponsors!

Program Sponsors AASP National AkzoNobel Performance Coatings Auto Care Association Auto Value Parts Stores/APH Autoshop Solutions Bill Smith Foundation Carbench CARQUEST Dent Impressions Dentsmart PDR Keystone Automotive PPG Automotive Finishes WorldPac

Hospitality Sponsors 3M aaa Auto Parts AAA Minnesota/Iowa Aeromotive Services, Inc. AmeriPride Services AudaExplore Axalta Coating Systems BASF CBIZ AIA CCC Information Services Choice Auto Rental Dorman Products Hertz Corporation IDENTIFIX Inver Grove Ford Lincoln Keystone Automotive Lowell’s Performance Coatings Malco Products, Inc. Meadowbrook Insurance Midwest Parts Advantage Mitchell International Mitchell1 Noble Conservation Solutions Norton Automotive Aftermarket O’Reilly Auto Parts PAM’s Auto, Inc. Pro Paint Sherwin-Williams Suburban Chevrolet

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PARTNERS IN PREVENTION

Burning Used Oil IF YOU HAVE USED OIL AT YOUR SHOP, READ ON. If your used oil will be re-refined into lubricating oil, it is best to recycle it. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), two-and-a-half quarts of lubricating oil can be produced from one gallon of used oil or 42 gallons of crude oil. The additives in motor oil wear out, but the lubricating oil doesn’t. Recycle it if you can.

However, you are allowed burn used oil for heat at your shop if you want to, and that may be what you prefer to do. Used oil burning is regulated by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and the US EPA, so if you want to burn used oil at your shop this winter, here are a few things to consider.

First: Is what you want to burn considered oil? Used oil can be many different things, such as engine oil, transmission fluid, gear oil, brake fluid or hydraulic oil. Used fuels and most solvents are not considered used oil, even though they are often derived from petroleum like oil is.

Certain solvents are allowed to be added in small amounts to used oil before recycling or burning on site. The MPCA fact sheet listed at the end of this article describes which solvents can be added to used oil. The solvents can only make up 10 percent of the mixture, and you must be a Very Small Quantity Hazardous Waste Generator. That’s just five-and-a-half gallons of solvent in a 55gallon drum of used oil. Keep a record of which solvent (and how much) you add to the used oil.

Next: Is your used oil clean enough to burn? Used oil burners must burn “on-spec” used oil. On-spec oil meets requirements that ensure the oil can be burned without harming your employees or neighbors.

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If you are burning oil from oil changes at your shop or from individuals who drop off their own used oil, you may assume the oil to be on-spec without testing it. It is a good idea to have do-ityourselfers sign a sheet when they drop off used oil. This holds them accountable for the oil they provide you, and you are less likely to have toxic fluids contaminating your used oil.

There are additional requirements if your shop accepts used oil from other businesses. Provide the business with a receipt. Assume the used oil to be off-spec until it has been tested and proven to be on-spec. If the other business hasn’t tested its oil, you are required to do a one-time test before you burn. The MPCA fact sheet listed at the end of this article describes what you need to test for. Keep records of the results for three years. Do not burn off-spec used oil.

If you burn oil from another business, notify the EPA and MPCA that you are a “used oil burner” using the “Notification of Regulated Waste Activity” form on the MPCA website at www.pca.state.mn.us/veiz8a8.

Now that you know your oil is clean enough to burn, what about the furnace? Use a furnace that is built for oil burning. It must be rated at less than 500,000 BTUs per hour and be vented to the outdoors. Follow state and municipal fire and building codes for installation and use of oil burners. Metro counties may be more continued on pg. 21

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INSURANCE I.Q.

It’s Time to Change the Way You Think About Life Insurance

Have you considered what you would do if your retirement plan did not work as you expected? It’s a risk that is more common than you think, as most Americans will spend 20 years or more in retirement. Consider that: • The average couple retiring at age 65 can expect to pay $220,000 in out-of-pocket medical expenses during retirement.

• 41 percent of adults retired earlier than expected due to a personal health problem.

• One out of every four adults will live past the age of 90.

One of the concerns many pre-retirees have is that they will not have enough income during retirement to enjoy their non-working years, or even just maintain their current standard of living. In fact, an estimated 50 percent of households are at risk for a decline in their standard of living during retirement. Unfortunately, those most at risk are high-income earners who are faced with contribution limitations imposed by the IRS on their qualified plans, yet lack the means to adopt many of the advanced planning techniques used by high-net-worth individuals.

costs associated with home care as well. There is even a carrier that is now offering an opportunity to withdraw a portion of the death benefit at age 85, which has the effect of acting as a retirement income safety net.

Protecting assets from a market downturn is also a real consideration for those in their retirement years. Market losses for those nearing retirement or in the early stages of their retirement can erode investments and have a negative effect on the assets needed to generate income for 20 years or more. Fortunately, there are strategies you can employ using life insurance that can help preserve assets earmarked for retirement income; first through the use of an indexed universal life policy, and second by withdrawing funds from your cash value life insurance during market downturns.

Indexed universal life insurance allows you to participate in a part of the market’s upside, while mitigating downside risk using a crediting rate floor and adding an element of stability. Secondly, by accessing policy cash during a market downturn, versus withdrawing assets and income from your investment portfolio, you can preserve

This basic planning strategy can easily be employed by individuals to enhance their personal savings efforts, or by companies for the benefit of their executives or valued employees.

After tax dollars pay life insurance premiums

Tax-free withdrawals or loans up to basis taken while living

Cash value grows tax deferred inside policy

However, using cash value life insurance as a part of an overall retirement strategy provides the high-income earner with an additional tax-efficient vehicle to accumulate the funds they need for retirement. Here’s how it works: A permanent policy is funded with after-tax premiums, but those funds can grow income tax deferred and may be accessed income tax free through a series of tax-free withdrawals to basis or policy loans. The cash taken from the policy is also exempt from the 3.8 percent Net Investment Income Tax. Upon death, any remaining death benefit is used to repay the outstanding loans and the remainder is paid to the beneficiaries.

Another very real concern most people share is the possibility of outliving their retirement assets either due to lack of sufficient savings, a market downturn or unexpected medical costs. Fortunately, life insurance carriers have begun addressing many of these concerns with new products and features that can safeguard your assets while you are still living. Most life insurance carriers now offer long-term or chronic care health riders that allow the owner to withdraw a percentage of the policy’s death benefit early to cover costs of care. Many of these riders also have the flexibility to cover

Remaining death benefit paid to heirs after payment of outstanding loans

your traditional retirement funds and allow them time to recover, versus selling into a down market and locking in losses.

Life insurance has come a long way in the past 10 years. With carriers offering new products and riders that give people the protection, flexibility and control they need while they are still living, life insurance has become an important tool in any well constructed retirement plan.

For additional information on this topic, please contact Dennis Begley, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, CBC with CBIZ Life Insurance Solutions at DPBegley@CBIZ.com or 763-549-2260.

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2015 AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET CALENDARS

Catalogs and order forms now available by contacting the AASP-MN office at: (612) 623-1110 or (800) 852-9071

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MEET THE MEMBER

Noble Conservation Solutions What kind of services does the company provide to the auto repair industry?

For the automotive industry, we offer better lighting at lower cost for a safer, cleaner looking shop, as well as more efficient energy use for higher profitability.

How long has the company been in business?

Noble Conservation Solutions was started in 2008 by Matt Noble, an energy efficiency expert, and Lev Buslovich, a Six Sigma blackbelt. Matt is the ‘green’ one, coming in with over 15 years experience in the energy management industry, and Lev is the ‘business’ one who has a background in operations, marketing and product strategy for companies like GE and Target. The two of them are neighbors; their daughters were even on the same soccer team.

After they got to talking, they put their talents and passions together to create Noble Conservation Solutions.

Are you affiliated with any other organizations or do you have any other certifications of note?

We hold Certifications as Lighting Management Consultants, we are Certified Energy Professionals and have designations in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, as well as membership in the Association of Energy Engineers.

In your opinion, what makes this company stand out from others like it?

In addition to having our own Master Electrician on staff, we employ our own crews, so every job - no matter where it is in the country - is done by Noble employees. This sets us apart from other companies who hire temporary local help, often leading to miscommunication and quality issues.

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AASP News

Christopher Whiting has worked in Business Development at Noble Conservation Solutions for over two years.

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How did you get involved in Noble Conservation Solutions?

I joined Noble after five years in direct lighting sales, followed by four years as sales manager for a lighting manufacturer. I was familiar with Noble Conservation Solutions and the high quality of work and integrity they bring to a project. I was very comfortable joining this team.

You have worked with several prominent AASPMN members to help reduce their carbon footprint and create efficiency in the shop. Please tell us a little about your experience in working with these facilities.

When I approached Tony Bonfe, owner of Bonfe’s Auto Service and Body Repair, about improving his lighting, Tony was resistant. “Lighting is critical to our business. I didn’t want to risk making a mistake,” Tony said. My team and I installed several fixtures in a test area, and Bonfe’s crew was impressed. Tony told me that his guys really liked it, that the energy savings made sense, that the shop looks great and that the savings would pay for the project in just a few years. He referred me to fellow shop owner, Kevin Lund, who also upgraded the lighting at his business, Fairway Collision. It’s worked out great for both businesses, and I’m thankful for the referrals they continue to give me. That’s the best testimony of a happy customer.

What inspired the company to become a part of AASP-MN? Noble Conservation Solutions decided to join AASPMN after completing these two projects. These are both very busy shops, and very active members in the Association. We felt that if we could improve their businesses, other AASP-MN members could benefit as well. We’re happy to partner with the AASP-MN, and members can learn how much we can save them without any commitment or cost up front. I offer a lighting audit at no charge, and then we find out how long the return on investment takes if they choose to move forward with a project.

Christopher Whiting works in Business Development at Noble Conservation Solutions, a company that aims to minimize other businesses’ energy emissions while optimizing on fiscal returns. He can be contacted at (763) 746-0982 or by e-mail at cwhiting@noblecs.com.

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PARTNERS IN PREVENTION continued from pg. 14

DATABASE ENHANCEMENT GATEWAY

restrictive, so check with your county environmental department before you burn if you are in the Twin Cities Metro area.

Used oil storage is one of the most common areas where inspectors find violations.

Store used oil in a sturdy container that will not leak. Label the container “used oil.” Close the lid or bung so oil can’t spill if the container is bumped or knocked over. Store the container on a surface that oil can’t soak through, such as concrete. Do not store used oil containers on asphalt, which can quickly become saturated and degraded by oil. Clean up any drips or spills immediately.

MPCA fact sheet “Used Oil and Related Wastes” has more information about storing and burning used oil, including testing requirements, which solvents are ok to mix with oil and how to manage oil filters. The fact sheet is available on the MPCA web site at www.pca.state.mn.us/publications/ w-hw4-30.pdf.

COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE continued from pg. 6

Remember: No law requires you to get more than one estimate. You are not obligated to use any particular shop to obtain repairs. YOU choose the shop and authorize the repairs.

All of the AASP-MN member shops have highly-trained professionals that can assist you with any questions, concerns and/or needs throughout any of the

processes involved in a car accident and getting repairs to your vehicle. We can help you by getting a tow, a rental car, insurance inquiries, repairs and even just offer support.

You don’t have to feel alone – we are here for you!

(Compiled with support by the National Safety Council).

ARE YOU USING THE DEG???

The DATABASE ENHANCEMENT GATEWAY is an initiative to allow those who use the collision repair estimating databases to provide proactive feedback to the information providers.

If you have questions or concerns about estimating data represented in your estimating guide or system, visit www.DEGweb.org to submit a Database Inquiry or get more information.

Funded & operated by:

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CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP!

AASP-MN and Identifix Help You Boost Production on Every Car, Every Day AASP-MN has teamed up with Identifix® to extend a special offer to all members for its award-winning online tool, Direct-Hit® – the aftermarket’s leading source for short-cut diagnostics, OEM service and repair information, Factory Scheduled Maintenance plans and reliable estimating.

Direct-Hit’s exclusive database of vehicle symptoms, proven short-cut tests and confirmed fixes streamlines traditional factory flow charts by significantly minimizing the number of steps it takes to diagnose vehicles right the first time. Genuine OEM service and repair information – on more than 30 vehicle makes – help you finish the job with speed, accuracy and confidence.

Direct-Hit also enables you to create personalized Factory Scheduled Maintenance plans so you can educate your customers on the benefits of routine vehicle maintenance. And since the maintenance schedules come directly from the factory, you can feel comfortable delivering timely, reliable and trustworthy information in language your customers can understand. If you need

support beyond the web, Identifix’s Repair Hotline is staffed with over 45 OE Factory Trained, ASE Master, L1 carline specialists who speak your language.

To find out more about Direct-Hit and how it can help you increase technician confidence, shop productivity and your bottom line, call Identifix today at 1-800-745-9649. As an AASP member, you will receive a special rate of $159 per month per shop – a $10 monthly discount! And as an additional benefit, AASP members will receive a special first time subscriber rate of $119 per month per shop for the first 90 days of service.

Identifix Product Information Phone: 1.800.745.9649 for more information and a personal online test drive. Be sure to mention you are an AASP Member.

Web Site: www.identifix.com

AASP-MN MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAMS WORKERS’ COMP INSURANCE Meadowbrook Insurance Group Contact: Dennis Spindler 763-549-2238 / dspindler@cbizaia.com Up-front scheduled credit makes Meadowbrook one of the most competitive programs around for Worker‘s Compensation insurance. In addition, members are eligible to receive an annual dividend based on the group’s loss ratio. For more information, log on to www.wcpolicy.com/aaspmn.

PROPERTY/LIABILITY INSURANCE CBIZ AIA Contact: Dennis Spindler 763-549-2238 / dspindler@cbizaia.com CBIZ AIA will present AASP-MN members with quotes from multiple carriers for property/liability insurance and members can choose the program that best fits their situation. As an added bonus, CBIZ AIA will offer members an exclusive 10% discount on their property/liability insurance premiums.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CBIZ AIA Contact: Dennis Begley 763-549-2260 CBIZ AIA will provide AASP-MN member with quotes from multiple carriers for life insurance, health insurance, long-term care and disability insurance.

UNIFORM & LINEN SUPPLIES AmeriPride Services Contact: Jim Dillon 651-955-1398 • Fax: 952-738-3318 jim.dillon@ameripride.com Discounted pricing to members on rental of uniforms, entrance mats, shop rags, etc. Purchases are also discounted. Members receive annual rebate equal to 10% of their business with AmeriPride each year.

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CREDIT CARD PROCESSING Association BankCard Services Contact: Mac Hardin 952-933-2026 • Fax: 952-933-4595 mach@retailfinancialservices.biz Competitive rates for AASP-MN members. Terminals and printers sold at cost. Monthly rental of equipment is also available.

INDUSTRIAL & PAPER PRODUCTS Wipers & Wipes, Inc. Contact: Dennis Julson Phone: 651-486-4866 Fax: 651-486-4859 Discounts on industrial supplies and paper products.

Free, next-day delivery is available in the metro area.

Shipping free to outstate members with $100 purchase.

WEBSITE AND INTERNET MARKETING SOLUTIONS Net Driven Contact: Jon Napoli 218-623-7351 / 218-310-7285 Net Driven is a market leader in website and internet marketing solutions designed exclusively for the automotive industry. Net Driven assists independent tire and automotive industry dealers who are looking to increase revenue by selling more tires, service, and wheels. AASP-MN members who choose Net Driven are eligible for a $500 discount off their 1st year setup fees. For more information, contact Jon Napoli.

Stormlogix Contact: Paul Switzer 732-364-1156 / paul.switzer@stormlogix.com Stormlogix extends a discount on its website packages to AASP members. Costs can be spread out over 6 months.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION HOTLINE IDENTIFIX Phone: 800-288-6220 Fax: 651-633-2188 Members enjoy discounted prices on the industry’s #1 technical information hotline. One free call is extended to all first-time AASP-MN member callers.

BUSINESS FORMS/CALENDARS AASP-MN Contact: Jodi Pillsbury Phone: 612-623-1110 or toll free 800-852-9071 Fax: 612-623-1122 / jodi@aaspmn.org Discount rate on printed business forms and calendars.

SHOP SERVICES Summit Software & Mobile Solutions Contact: Frank Terlep 888-377-2661 / fterlep@summitsoftwaresolutions.com.

Website: www.emarketingsherpas.com AASP members receive a $50 discount on their annual e-Marketplace subscription, a digital marketing system that includes mobile phone apps and a complete customer service, sales, marketing, advertising and communication platform.

INFORMATION PROVIDERS Mitchell1 Contact: Mitchell1 Representative Phone: 888-724-6742 x 6986 AASP members are eligible for special Mitchell 1 information and management programs at significant discounts. For more information, log onto www.mitchell1.com or contact the Mitchell 1 representative at 888-724-6742, X6986.

Mitchell International Contact: Mitchell International Representative Phone: 800-238-9111 AASP members receive a 15% discount on any Mitchell RepairCenter TechAdvisor package. Visit http://repaircenter.mitchell.com/Catalog/OEM Repair.aspx for more information.

AASP News

PAYROLL PROCESSING CBIZ Payroll Contact: Bob Willbanks 612-298-1176 / bwillbanks@cbiz.com Members receive 20% discount off standard payroll products and services (excluding 401k). Members who switch prior to June 30 will receive first month of payroll processing free.

CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICES Certegy Check Services Contact: Heather Ellis 952-240-5017 / heather.ellis@fisglobal.com Discount rate of .75% to AASP-MN members. Use existing credit card terminal. Fast claim payments.

BUSINESS COACHING 180BIZ 540-833-2014 / info@180biz.com Website: www.180biz.com 180BIZ offers BUSINESS COACHING to AASP members at a steep 20% discount! One Eighty Business Solutions LLC (180BIZ) has been helping shop owners increase profits and car count while decreasing stress since 2003.

AASP members receive a discount on very affordable oneon-one coaching plans without long-term commitments and complicated contracts. 180BIZ offiers a risk-free trial of their services. To learn more, please call or email us, or visit our website.

REPLACEMENT PARTS Dorman Products Phone: 800-868-5777, ext. 5329 Website: www.dormanproducts.com AASP members receive insider information, special access and other perks from Dorman Products, a leading supplier of dealer “exclusive” automotive replacement parts.

LEGAL CONSULTATION Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick Phone: 800-496-6789 Fax: 218-725-6800 Members receive free, over-the-phone legal assessment and consultation (some restrictions apply) with an attorney who specializes in the area of law that is the subject of the call.

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