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CONTENTS Vol. 30 No. 8
AASP-MN 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. To keep its readers better informed, AASP-MN 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. ©2021 All rights reserved. Cover image www.istockphoto.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 2021 - 2022
PRESIDENT Tom Archambault
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE.................................................4 The Office That Never Sleeps by Judell Anderson, CAE, AASP-MN Executive Director LEGISLATIVE UPDATE.....................................................................6 2021 Legislative Session Summary by Kevin Walli & Sam Richie, AASP-MN Lobbyists LOCAL NEWS..................................................................................8 19TH ANNUAL RACE FOR AUTOMOTIVE EDUCATION REGISTRATION............................................................10
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Matt Feehan
D.E.G. ESTIMATING TIPS .................................................................11
SECRETARY-TREASURER Jesse Jacobson
INSURANCE I.Q. ..............................................................................14 White House Issues Ransomware Prevention Guidance to Businesses
COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR Lee Schlosser MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTOR Jeremy Nordgren ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR Loren Feldkamp COLLISION SEAT Travis Doyle MECHANICAL SEATS Mike McLynn Tony Newman
STAFF
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Judell Anderson, CAE OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Jodi Pillsbury 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
COVER STORY ................................................................................16 Lessons in Longevity: Veteran AASP-MN Businesses Reflect on Success by Joel Gausten SHOP HERE FIRST!..........................................................................18 AASP-MN Associate Membership Directory PARTNERS IN PREVENTION ...........................................................20 E-Manifest – A New Way to Keep Hazardous Waste Records CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBER BENEFITS! .........................................22 AASP-MN and Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith and Frederick's Legal Services Program AASP-MN MEMBER BENEFITS ........................................................22 UPCOMING EVENTS
September 28, 29, 30 Race for Automotive Education ProKart Indoor Racing Burnsville ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
SALES DIRECTOR Alicia Figurelli | alicia@grecopublishing.com
A-Con Recycling........................................... 7
Morrie’s .......................................................... 17
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Joel Gausten | joel@grecopublishing.com
Aramark.......................................................... 6
MPA.................................................................. IBC
CBIZ.................................................................. 15
Proven Force........................................................ OBC
Dentsmart....................................................... 14
Reliable Automotive Equipment..............12-13
Inver Grove Honda/Inver Grove Toyota. 19
Rosedale Chevrolet...................................... 20
OFFICE MANAGER Donna Greco | donna@grecopublishing.com
Jack McClard................................................. 11
Sherwin Williams........................................... IFC
Keystone......................................................... 20
Spanesi............................................................ 5
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Joe Greco | joe@grecopublishing.com
Maplewood Toyota...................................... 4
Straight & Square......................................... 9
Mopar Group ................................................ 19
Toyota Group................................................ 7
EDITORIAL & CREATIVE COORDINATOR Alana Bonillo | alana@grecopublishing.com
www.grecopublishing.com
AASP-MN News
August 2021 | 3
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE
The Office That Never Sleeps By Judell Anderson, CAE, AASP-MN Executive Director
As I write this, summer is well underway. This time of year, the AASP-MN office gets a little quiet. The Leadership Conference and Golf Outing are behind us. Committee meetings are on summer hiatus. The MN Legislature has finally adjourned. The phone rings less as members enjoy some welldeserved time off. But this office never really sleeps… We’re gearing up for the Race for Automotive Education in September. Preliminary arrangements are being made for the 2022 Leadership Conference. The MNCARS and Get to Know Your Neighborhood Auto Repair Pro campaigns are being actively managed. The editorial for this magazine must continuously be generated. Member benefit programs must be administered. And there’s always the routine maintenance of the website, member database, finances
4 | August 2021
and office files. So, with just two staff members to do the work of the Alliance, we stay busy no matter what the season! There is one committee that will continue to meet throughout the summer – the Executive Search Committee. These six members have been charged with selecting the next executive director, as I’ll be retiring at year’s end. This is no small task or responsibility and I can tell you that they’re taking this job very seriously. A search firm has been retained and the job posting has been placed on several sites that specialize in nonprofit/ association employment opportunities. Applicants will be narrowed down and interviews will be conducted. And, finally, an offer will be made to someone I’m confident will be a very qualified person to serve as your next executive director.
AASP-MN News
In the meantime, I’d like to thank those of you who reached out by phone or email to extend your congratulations on my retirement. It’s been nice to hear that my work has made a difference and been appreciated. Rest assured, I will continue to pour my heart and soul into making your business and industry a better place until my very last day!
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August 2021 | 5
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
2021 Legislative Session Summary by Kevin Walli & Sam Richie, AASP-MN Lobbyists
After a tightly contested 2020 election in which all 201 members of the Minnesota Legislature were on the ballot, Minnesota remained the only divided Legislature in the nation with Republicans maintaining their narrow majority in the state Senate and the DFL able to keep their slim majority in the state House. Given this split control, each chamber could essentially veto any policy priorities from the other body, a complicating factor for anyone hoping to enact new policy in 2021. Another complicating factor for this year's budget setting process were the wild swings in the state’s budget forecast. Minnesota had a
6 | August 2021
projected $1.5 billion surplus going into the 2020 session before COVID19 changed everything. The next budget update after the peacetime emergency was declared came in November 2020 and indicated Minnesota was now facing a $2.4 billion deficit, a dramatic nearly $4 billion change. But only a few months later, in February 2021, the state’s budget forecast swung again, this time all the way back to a $1.6 billion surplus. Part of the reason for these dizzying changes is the difficulty in predicting economic activity during a once-in-a-generation global pandemic, but the federal funds provided to state and local
AASP-MN News
governments in 2020 (CARES Act) and 2021 (American Rescue Plan Act) certainly helped stabilize our economic outlook in ways that were hard to foresee. Rather than setting the biennial budget and going home, the 2021 Legislature blew through the constitutionally mandated adjournment date of May 17 with little to show for the regular session. Lawmakers returned to St. Paul on June 14 for a special session aimed at passing the outstanding budget bills and avoiding a government shutdown. While legislative leaders were able to strike a deal on overall budget numbers at the close of the regular session in May, they needed extra time to work through some of the details and actually assemble bill language, a process that took place entirely in private with little to no input from the public or even rankand-file legislators. The legislature was eventually able to pass the budget in time to avoid a government shutdown, but not before furlough notices were sent to thousands of state employees warning of a July 1 shutdown. While a lot of policy remained undone this year, there were some notable provisions for AASP-MN members to be aware of. First and foremost - Minnesota conformed to the federal tax treatment on unemployment payments and forgiven Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. The state will exempt $10,200 of unemployment benefits from state income taxes and will exempt all forgiven PPP loans. Governor Walz and House DFLers had sought additional tax increases this year, but those were not included in the final Tax Bill. Additionally, the Omnibus Transportation Bill includes language
creating a new Salvage Title Task Force made up of put any additional burden or onus on repair shops as two Representatives and two Senators to “evaluate some previous language in the bill had done. issues related to salvage certificates of title and make The legislature will return on January 31, 2022, for the recommendations for legislative changes” with a report second year of the biennium where the focus will be on to the legislature due by January 31, 2022. This task force policy issues left undone in 2021, spending the remaining was an AASP-MN compromise to study the issue and leftover federal funds and assembling a bonding bill. avoid the problematic language that had been included AASP-MN will remain active with outreach to lawmakers in earlier versions of the Senate Transportation Bill that as we prepare for 2022. would have deleted the terms “high-value” and “late model” from the salvage title statute, resulting in more totaled vehicles and fewer repairs. The task force can now take time to study the issue and determine if those changes would result in better customer outcomes or if they are unnecessary. Another issue we’ve tracked this year is the uptick in catalytic converter thefts. There were several legislative A-Con Recycling can help! Give us a call proposals to address this and a small pilot project was today at 651-252-6000 for more details We PICKUP & RECYCLE your bumpers, eventually funded in the commerce budget. $400,000 and scheduling. keeping plastic out of landfills and has been appropriated for a program that will pay for improving shopplastic production! WHAT WE DO: Recycle bumpers car owners to have their catalytic converters engraved and keep them out of landfills. with their vehicles’ identification numbers or otherwise be Contact usRecondition, today for WHAT WE DON’T DO: fix or permanently marked so the converter could be identified & scheduling! selldetails bumper cores for repair. if removed and attempted to be sold to a scrap yard or 651-252-6000 aconrecycling@aconwheel.com converter processing facility. This new program does not
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AASP-MNdoesn’t News August cores 2021 | 7 A-Con Recycling recondition, fix or sell bumper WHAT WE DO: Recycle plastic bumpers for repair. Instead, we PICKUP and RECYCLE them - keeping
LOCAL NEWS AASP-MN Executive Director Receives TCOE Award AASP-MN Executive Director Judell Anderson recently received the “Program Supporter of the Year Award - Individual” from the Minnesota Transportation Center of Excellence (TCOE). The TCOE annually recognizes educators, advocates, supporters and industry partners for their outstanding contributions to the field of transportation-related education. Award winners are nominated by their peers and recipients of these awards are selected by the TCOE Awards Committee, which consists of a variety of representatives from industry, administration and instructional staff. This award applauds the efforts of individuals and/or industry partners across Minnesota who have demonstrated exemplary support, through gifts of their time, talent or resources. Among the letters of support received with the nomination was this endorsement from an industry partner: “Judell is well known throughout the U.S. as running one of the best associations in the industry. She is very active with many educational advisory boards for both mechanical and collision programs throughout Minnesota. Her knowledge and passion have been instrumental in the continued success of the industry.” The award will be formally presented at the Midwest Teachers of Transportation and Industrial Areas (MTTIA) conference on August 4. Congratulations, Judell!
AASP-MN Announces 19th Annual Race for Automotive Education The 19th Annual Race for Automotive Education is planned for September 28, 29 and 30 at ProKart Indoor Racing in Burnsville. The event serves as the Alliance’s primary fundraiser for its Automotive Education Fund, which provides financial resources to support automotive students, enhance automotive programs and raise awareness of career opportunities in the automotive service industry. Since its inception, the fund has disbursed nearly $270,000 directly to students enrolled in automotive programs through the association’s scholarship program and SkillsUSA competition. AASP-MN members and other industry supporters will organize teams to compete in kart racing at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. When the final checkered flag waves, the Race for Automotive Education is expected to raise up to $15,000. Most of that money is earmarked to fund scholarships for students enrolled in ASE Education Foundation-certified automotive programs (collision repair or auto service) in the state of Minnesota. See page 10 for more information and to register. 2021 Minnesota I-CAR/SkillsUSA Fall Golf Event Announced The Minnesota I-CAR/SkillsUSA Volunteer Committee invites golfers and sponsors to Oak Glen Golf Course in Stillwater, Wednesday, September 22 for a fun-filled day of golf. All proceeds from the event go toward scholarships for future technicians, equipment
Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair & Service (MNCARS) MNCARS is a non-profit organization established in 2016 by AASP-MN. Its sole purpose is to promote careers in the automotive industry, recruit young people into the state's college-level automotive service and collision repair programs and, ultimately, into industry workplaces.
Take advantage of the resources in the MotorMouth toolbox at https://carcareers.org/motor-mouth/. Get out and get active in your local community promoting industry careers!
for technical colleges and other collision industry training needs in Minnesota. The event includes a four-person scramble, dinner and awards reception following golf. In addition, there will be complimentary refreshments on several holes around the course, as well as unique contests for prizes. This is a great opportunity for vendors to market their business, products and/or services, while supporting the industry and enjoying a round of golf with industry leaders. Registration and payment for golfers and/or sponsors can be found on the golf outing’s website, icargolf.com. For more information, contact tournament director Jamison Randall at jrandall@latuffbrothers.com or 651-796-8003. Thank You Year-Long Sponsors The following companies have made sponsorship commitments for AASP-MN's educational programming and other activities in 2021: Platinum Fix Auto LKQ-Minnesota Lube-Tech & Partners Gold AASP National Auto Value Parts Stores/APH Axalta Coating Systems CBIZ AiA FinishMaster Podium PPG Automotive Finishes United Fire Group Silver aaa Auto Parts AmeriPride Services Colonial Life Enterprise Rent-A-Car O’Reilly Auto Parts PAM’s Auto, Inc. Sherwin Williams Single Source/National Coatings Suburban Chevrolet Bronze C.H.E.S.S. Twin Cities Auto Glass continued on pg. 17
8 | August 2021
AASP-MN News
AASP-MN News
August 2021 | 9
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 would make a great employee outing!) The competition will consist of up to 12 teams each night with five members each and a crew chief.
These ain’t your daddy’s go karts!
ProKart’s fleet of RiMO EVO6 Race Karts are run on power-boosting, low-emission, renewable methanol for consistency and performance.
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 up to $15,000 over the three nights. Most of that money is earmarked to fund scholarships for students enrolled in an ASEaccredited automotive program (collision or mechanical) in the state of Minnesota. Scholarship awards are $1,500 per student.
The race is on! Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. The Race for Automotive Education is sure to be a sell-out event, so don’t delay – register today! _____ Team Sponsor - $500 (Includes admission for six, including team captain and five racers) Team Name:______________________________________ Contact:____________________________________ Address:____________________________________________City:________________________Zip:_________ Phone:_______________________________________Email:___________________________________________ Preferred Race Night:
_____Tuesday 9/28
Wednesday 9/29 (Sold Out!)
_____Thursday 9/30
_____ Race Sponsor - $250 Racing is not in my blood, but I would like to support automotive
students/programs in MN (Includes admission for two spectators)
Sponsor Name:____________________________________ Contact:____________________________________ Address:____________________________________________City:_________________________Zip:_________ Phone:_______________________________________Email:___________________________________________ Please return with payment by 9/1/2021 to: AASP-MN Automotive Education Fund 1970 Oakcrest Ave., Suite 102, Roseville, MN 55113
Phone: (612) 623-1110 / Fax: (612) 623-1122 / Email: aasp@aaspmn.org 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.
10 | August 2021
AASP-MN News
ESTIMATING TIPS Audatex: Combination, Front or Rear Suspension (raise and support) Duplicate Labor – The Audatex DBRM, Section 5-5 glossary of Audatex Terms, defines the term Combination Suspension as: “The Audatex term for raising and supporting a vehicle.” Labor to raise and support the front and/or rear is assigned a value of 0.2 hours in Audatex and is only accounted ONE TIME. If the repairer needs to raise and support either the front or the rear of the vehicle multiple times during the repair process, the additional labor is considered a duplicate effort. Duplicate efforts are NOT INCLUDED in the labor report and would need to be captured on the estimate with a manual entry. The labor report will show “Combination, Frt Susp” or “Combination, Rear Susp” listed with .2 hours for the first occurrence, and 0.0 hours in net value column for any additional occurrences. CCC/MOTOR: Lowering Headliner to Gain Access – In DEG Inquiry 18510, MOTOR updated the labor to NOT INCLUDED for lowering the headliner for Roof Rack R&I labor. Both labor operations are now independent of each other, allowing the repairer to determine what specific parts and trim pieces need to be removed to lower or R&I the complete liner. When OEM repair manuals are not specific to which trim panels need to be removed to lower a headliner and no footnote exists, but the time is identified as INCLUDED in CCC, please submit a DEG Inquiry to get clarification or database correction. All Three Systems: Crack Inspection Using Dye Penetrant – Dye penetrant testing to inspect for non-visible cracks or defects is a process that may need to be performed during damage diagnosis, part inspection or in-process after welding work is completed. Labor and material costs to perform a dye penetrant crack inspection are NOT INCLUDED in published labor times and would
require an on-the-spot evaluation. Areas where crack inspections are commonly performed include vehicle structures, castings, suspension and engine components where cracks may not be visible without aid. All Three Systems: Recycled Assembly Considerations – Utilization of a recycled part for a repair is a decision between the vehicle owner and their chosen repair facility. When considering the costs associated with a recycled part, it is important to understand the additional labor, parts and materials that may be necessary to bring the part to usable condition. Visit degweb.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/RecycledAssembly-Considerations.jpg for a sampling of considerations that are NOT INCLUDED in any of the three estimating systems. Audatex: Vapor Barrier May Be NOT INCLUDED – Audatex DBRM States that when replacing a new door shell, labor to R&I “Vapor Barrier” is included. An example where the vapor barrier may be NOT INCLUDED, is when the vapor barrier needs R&I or R&R to gain access to an inner door shell component for a repair/refinish scenario when the door is not being replaced. Audatex RFR team has clarified non “drawn in parts” (parts not listed or in the parts schematic) in Audatex database and not identified in Audatex DBRM Section 4-3. This may also include ancillary parts attached to a major component. Users can submit a DEG Inquiry for additional feedback from Audatex when an operation in question is not addressed by the labor report. Final DEG note: If adhesive-backed vapor barriers are to be reused, any additional labor and materials to clean and reapply adhesive to bring the vapor barrier to the condition of new and ready for reinstall is NOT INCLUDED.
Note: The estimating databases are all intended to be used as a GUIDE ONLY - it is important to remember that the auto body professional performing the repair is in a position to thoroughly inspect, diagnose and identify the methodology and their unique cost of the vehicle damage repair. You can view these tips and others on the DEG website, DEGWEB.ORG.
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AASP-MN News
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INSURANCE I.Q.
White House Issues Ransomware Prevention Guidance to Businesses In a recent letter addressed to corporate executives and business leaders, the White House emphasized that bolstering the nation’s resilience against cyberattacks is a main priority for President Joe Biden’s administration. Specifically, as ransomware attacks continue to rise in both cost and frequency throughout the country, the federal government is urging businesses to take this evolving cyber threat seriously. These attacks – which entail a cybercriminal deploying malicious software to compromise a business’s network or sensitive data and demanding a large payment be made before restoring this technology or information – have quickly become a growing concern across industry lines. In fact, the latest research provides that ransomware attacks have increased by nearly 150 percent in the past year alone, with the median ransom payment demand totaling $178,000 and the average overall loss from such an attack exceeding $1 million. While the White House has begun working with both domestic and international partners on various strategies to prevent ransomware attacks, the Biden administration is also encouraging businesses to play their part in minimizing this rising cyber concern. Rather than viewing ransomware attacks as a minor cyber risk, the federal government is instructing businesses to view these attacks as a significant exposure – one with the potential to wreak havoc on their key operations. As such, the Biden administration is recommending that businesses convene with their senior leadership teams to review their ransomware exposures and implement these top cybersecurity measures:
14 | August 2021
• Utilize the federal government’s best practices.
Businesses should be sure to incorporate the best practices outlined in the Biden administration’s Executive Order on Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity. This includes the following practices: aImplementing multifactor authentication on all workplace technology aLeveraging endpoint detection and response tools to identify and deter suspicious network activity aEncrypting sensitive data to make it less accessible to cybercriminals aDeveloping a trusted and skilled workplace cybersecurity team • Conduct frequent data backups. In addition to the federal government’s best practices, businesses should also prioritize securely backing up all sensitive data, images and other important files on a regular basis. Conducting such backups can help businesses remain operational and continue to access crucial data in the event that any workplace technology is compromised in a ransomware attack. Data backups should remain offline (not connected to key business networks) and be routinely tested.
AASP-MN News
continued on pg. 21
Two Great Companies. One Great Program. ®
®
AASP-MN News
August 2021 | 15
COVER STORY by Joel Gausten
LESSONS IN LONGEVITY: VETERAN AASP-MN
BUSINESSES REFLECT ON SUCCESS
The automotive service and collision industries aren’t always the easiest places to do business, but strength and prosperity await those who have a commitment to seeing things through and providing the right level of care to the motoring public. This fact is clear when you consider Minnesota, which boasts a number of automotive-related businesses that have stood strong for several decades despite the twist and turns of an everchanging profession. Although 2020 will go down as one of the most difficult times in American history, Automotive Parts Headquarters, Inc. (APH) found itself thriving last year as it reached its 100th anniversary. Already an auto community mainstay, the business saw substantial growth during the pandemic, with several recent acquisitions resulting in more than 60 new locations and 600-plus new employees being brought under the company’s umbrella (which now includes Nebraska, Iowa and Wyoming). “It wasn’t necessarily a fun year [with COVID-19], but the main thing that helped us get through was an outstanding team that kept our customers on the road,” APH President and CEO Corey Bartlett, a third-generation member of the business, says. “The game that we play is challenging, but it’s a really simple one. We need to provide superlative service to our customers; we need to help them get the car off the hoist and make sure we can deliver that minivan to the lady who is going to be back at four o’clock today. What’s allowed us to do that over the past 100-something years is an exceptional team.” Before the lockdown hit, the company planned to celebrate its first century by visiting all of its locations and delivering 100,000 ice cream treats to its employees and customers. With restrictions finally subsiding, APH held its first event of this nature in mid-July. A longtime participant in AASP-MN, Bartlett regularly
looks to the association for insight and connections while continuing his focus on building long-term growth. “For us, the AASP-MN membership has been fantastic […] Our goals and AASP-MN’s goals are perfectly aligned. We want to make sure our independent service providers are healthy, and AASP-MN is fighting the good fight, whether that’s with training or with advocacy. We’re proud to support them, and it’s been a wonderful way to connect with progressive and forwardthinking repair shops in Minnesota.” In business since 1933, Latuff Brothers Auto Body in St. Paul is another operation maintaining success in 2021. Still housed in its original location (with a second building added several years ago to accommodate a dramatic increase in work in the 1990s), the multi-generation business thrives under the current leadership of owner Peter Latuff, son of original co-founder Joe. Peter’s son Will serves as president and a back-end estimator, while his other son Robert serves as CFO. A full-time employee at the shop since 2003, Will has a clear idea of what has driven the business’ success for so long. “I think it’s a combination of just getting to know your employees and having a worthy cause that people are willing to follow. Our tagline is, ‘Better for you, your vehicle and the environment.’ We believe that applies to all aspects of our business.” Although known for retaining long-serving employees, recent times have led to retirements and the addition of a brand-new crew. Fortunately, the spirit of professionalism that has been a hallmark of Latuff Brothers Auto Body since the beginning still exists today. As Will says, “Despite the turnover, the crew that I have now feels like family again.” Family is also a critical factor at Kenny’s in Bemidji, a four-generation establishment. Founded in 1954, the business has served as a home away from home for the
FROM FAR LEFT: (L-R): Will, Peter and Robert Latuff of Latuff Brothers Auto Body; Corey Bartlett (right) of Automotive Parts Headquarters, Inc. with his father, John
16 | August 2021
AASP-MN News
(L-R): Sarah Haman and Alan, Karen and Scott Merschman of Kenny’s (Photo by Dennis Doeden/Bemidji Pioneer)
Merschmans, who recently welcomed current co-owner Alan‘s granddaughter, Mary, to the front office. “She’s the cutest member of the staff!” he says. Not surprisingly, Kenny’s
longevity in the area has ensured customer loyalty. “Two summers ago, I had a kid come in who gave me his name,” Alan recalls. “I said, ‘That’s an unusual name.’ I asked him if he knew [someone else with that name]. He said, ‘Yeah, that’s my great-grandfather.’ That was our first fourthgeneration customer. If you deliver a goods-andservices product for a fair price and the loyalty to your customers is strong, those customers stick with you through bad times.” As these and other AASP-MN member businesses move on into the future, their continued success stands as proof that perseverance pays in a challenging but rewarding industry.
LOCAL NEWS continued from pg. 8
Do You Have a Superstar? Do you have an employee you’d like to brag about in our monthly Facebook “Awesome Repair Pro” post? If so, please submit their name, job title, photo, number of years they have been employed by you and a brief statement about what makes them an “Awesome Repair Pro” and member of your team to aasp@aaspmn.org. We’d love to feature our industry’s superstars! AWAIR Program Required in Minnesota Automotive repair facilities in Minnesota are required to have A Workplace Accident and Injury Reduction (AWAIR) program. Any auto repair facility in Minnesota that does not have a current AWAIR program could be cited. AASP-MN, in conjunction with its partner, Complete Health Environmental & Safety Services (CHESS), has developed “Creating an AWAIR Program for Your Shop.” This online webinar helps members understand the components of an AWAIR program and helps them create an AWAIR program for their own facility. The cost for the webinar is $100 and it includes a 20-minute phone consultation with a representative from CHESS to review the program you draft for your company. To take the “Creating an AWAIR Program for Your Shop” webinar, log on to https://elearning. autoserviceproviders.com.
AASP-MN News
August 2021 | 17
Shop Here First!
AASP-MN Associate Member Directory 1 Collision Network – Milwaukee, WI 3M Center - St. Paul, MN aaa Auto Parts – Rosemount, MN aaa Auto Parts – East Bethel, MN AASP-MN BankCard Program - Minnetonka, MN A-Con Recycling/A-Con Wheel Service – Rosemount, MN Action Auto Parts – St. Paul, MN AkzoNobel - No. St. Paul., MN American Glass & Mirror, Inc. – Prior Lake, MN Aramark – Minneapolis, MN Arcon Solutions, Inc. – St. Paul, MN Assessment Associates International – Minnetonka, MN Auto Color & Industrial Supply, Inc. - St. Joseph, MN Auto Electric of Bloomington, Inc. – Bloomington, MN Auto Nation Parts Department – White Bear Lake, MN Auto Plus Auto Parts – Hopkins, MN Auto Plus Auto Parts – Lexington, MN Auto Plus Auto Parts – Brooklyn Park, MN Auto Plus Auto Parts – Bloomington, MN Auto Value Parts Stores – St. Cloud, MN Automotive Recyclers of MN – Fridley, MN Automotive Training Institute – Linthicum, MD Autoshop Solutions – Apex, NC AutoZone – Memphis, TN Axalta Coating Systems – New Richmond, WI BASF Corporation – Savage, MN Benco Equipment / APH – St. Cloud, MN Blue Rock Refinishing Solutions, LLC – Roseville, MN Boulay Financial Advisors, LLC – Minneapolis, MN Buerkle Honda – White Bear Lake, MN C.H.E.S.S. – West St. Paul, MN CalPro ADAS Solutions – Minnetonka, MN CARS Cooperative – Perkins, MN CBIZ – Minneapolis, MN Cintas – Minneapolis, MN Colonial Life – Princeton, MN Cottens' NAPA – Anoka, MN Crow River Glass, Inc. – Hutchinson,MN Dent Impressions – Rogers, MN Dentsmart – Isanti, MN Dorman Products – Colmar, PA Dynotec Industries, Inc. – Jordan, MN Elite Worldwide, Inc. – Rancho Santa Fe, CA Enterprise Rent-A-Car – Eagan, MN Factory Motor Parts – Eagan, MN Finishing Touch Car Care – Oakdale, MN FinishMaster – Fridley, MN FinishMaster – St. Cloud, MN FinishMaster – Duluth, MN Fix Auto – San Diego, CA Heartman Insurance – Faribault, MN Heartthrob Exhaust – Litchfield, MN
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Jack McClard & Associates / APH - Hopkins, MN IDENTIFIX – Roanoke, TX Johnson Supply Co. – Duluth, MN Kukui Corporation – Roseville, CA LKQ - Keystone Automotive – Fridley, MN LKQ – Minnesota – Albert Lea, MN LKQ - Viking Auto Salvage – Northfield, MN Lube-Tech & Partners – St. Paul, MN Maguire Agency – Roseville, MN Mark's Towing, Inc. – Eagan, MN Mitchell International – San Diego, CA Mitchell1 – Ellisville, MO Morrie's Automotive Group – Brooklyn Park, MN Motor Parts & Equipment – Winona, MN NAPA Distribution Center – St. Louis Park, MN NAPA Distribution Center – Owatonna, MN O'Reilly Auto Parts – Brooklyn Park, MN P.P.G. Automotive Finishes – Stillwater, MN P.P.G. Automotive Finishes – Mitchell, SD PAMs Auto, Inc. – St. Cloud, MN
Parts Dept. of Northfield (NAPA Auto Parts) – Northfield, MN
Podium – Lehi, UT Proven Force Clutch and U Joint – Maple Grove, MN Radco – Blaine, MN Radco – Burnsville, MN Radco – Duluth, MN Radco – Fargo, ND Radco – Oakdale, MN Radco– Sioux Falls, SD Radco– St. Cloud, MN Radco/Accessory Pro Warehouse – Baxter, MN SATA Spray Equipment/Dan Am Corp. – Spring Valley, MN Schmelz Countryside – Maplewood, MN Sherwin Williams Automotive Finishes – Andover, MN Single Source Inc. - Baldwin, WI – Baldwin, WI Single Source Inc. - Roseville, MN – Roseville, MN Single Source/National Coatings – Maplewood, MN Smart Express – Burnsville, MN Southern Minnesota Auto Supply Co. – Rochester, MN St. Paul/Mpls. Wholesale Parts – Anoka, MN Straight & Square Distributing, LLC – St. Cloud, MN Suburban Chevrolet – Eden Prairie, MN Sunbelt Business Advisors – Minneapolis, MN The Flasher Scope & Scan Diagnostics – Prior Lake, MN Twin Cities Auto Glass – White Bear Lake, MN United Fire Group – Hugo, MN Valley Imports – Fargo, ND Wakeman Equipment Sales, Inc. – Brown Deer, WI Wipers & Wipes, Inc. – Brooklyn Center, MN Wirthco Engineering, Inc. – Edina, MN
AASP-MN News
AASP-MN News
August 2021 | 19
PARTNERS IN PREVENTION
E-Manifest - A New Way to Keep Hazardous Waste Records Are you tired of sorting through stacks of hard-toread hazardous waste manifest copies? You now have a better option for hazardous waste recordkeeping: e-Manifest. E-manifest is the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s system for electronically storing hazardous waste manifests. What’s required to use the system? First, register for a free industry user account and then learn how to view your manifests. Manifest requirements Manifests are required for most shipments of hazardous waste in Minnesota, including those from very small quantity generators. Manifesting exceptions are discussed in depth in the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s (MPCA) fact sheet “Manifest shipments of hazardous waste”, #w-hw1-07, at: pca.state.mn.us/sites/ default/files/w-hw1-07.pdf. You must keep records of all manifested hazardous waste shipments. At auto service shops, commonly manifested wastes are parts washer solvent and paint waste. A manifest tracks hazardous waste movement from your site to its final destination and allows you to make sure it is properly managed.
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While you and your transporter may choose to use either a paper or fully electronic manifest, the official copy of the manifest is now housed in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) RCRAInfo e-Manifest system. You may use the EPA e-Manifest system to meet your generator recordkeeping requirement. Once you have registered for an account, you will be able to access all of your manifests back to mid-2018, whenever you choose and from wherever you are, and no longer need to keep your own paper or electronic copies. Register for E-Manifest You will need to register for a free industry user account in the EPA’s RCRAInfo database at rcrainfo.epa.gov. The MPCA has created a tutorial to help you register. Find the tutorial and detailed information on other hazardous waste topics at: pca.state.mn.us/waste/ hazardous-waste-documents-and-forms. For questions about hazardous waste, contact your Metropolitan County environmental department or the MPCA at (651) 296-6300 or info.pca@state.mn.us.
AASP-MN News
INSURANCE I.Q. continued from pg. 14 • Maintain updated security software. To help safeguard
workplace technology from ransomware threats, businesses should equip their systems and devices with adequate security software, such as antivirus programs, firmware protections and firewalls. Further, this software must be regularly updated to remain effective. That being said, businesses should also consider utilizing centralized patch management systems to keep security software on a consistent update schedule. • Ensure an effective incident response plan. All businesses should have cyber incident response plans in place. These plans outline proper response protocols and offer steps for minimizing potential damages during cyberattacks. Businesses should make sure to include several ransomware attack scenarios within their response plans and routinely test these scenarios with their cybersecurity teams. Based on test results, businesses should revise their response plans accordingly. • Review workplace cybersecurity protocols. Apart from testing their response plans, businesses should also regularly assess whether their existing workplace cybersecurity policies, procedures and software are sufficient in protecting against current risks – such as ransomware threats. In particular, businesses should consider using a third-party penetration tester to review their ransomware defense tactics and overall
cybersecurity capabilities. Businesses should work with their trusted cybersecurity teams and IT experts to make workplace adjustments as needed (e.g., updating policies or purchasing new security software). • Keep critical networks separated. In order to keep ransomware attacks from fully disrupting their operations, businesses should attempt to segment their various workplace networks (e.g., sales, production and corporate) from one another rather than having a unified network. Access to each network should be restricted to those who use them to conduct their job tasks. Networks should only allow internet access as needed. That way, businesses can avoid becoming completely compromised by single-network ransomware attacks and continue performing critical functions. • Consult with your insurance provider. Most insurance companies have some cyber coverage available to help deal with the costs associated with data breaches, internet security, ransomware attacks and cyber-crime. A stand-alone policy will provide the most comprehensive coverage and a reasonable cost. For additional risk management guidance and insurance solutions, contact Brad Schmid today at (763) 549-2247.
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AASP-MN News
August 2021 | 21
CASH IN ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS!
AASP-MN and Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith and Frederick's Legal Services Program The Fryberger law firm provides a full range of legal services for AASP-MN members. With 30 attorneys practicing in areas of specialization, the firm can help in nearly any situation. The firm’s home office is in Duluth, MN, and it also has satellite offices in St. Paul, MN and Superior, WI. Here’s how this valuable program works…
• Initial consultation and advice (not to exceed a halfhour of legal services) will be provided at no charge. • If the issue cannot be resolved in the initial consultation and additional research or legal action is required, the member may elect to engage the services of Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith and Frederick. The firm will charge reasonable fees for such services.
• Calls can be placed via the firm’s toll-free number at (800) 496-6789. • AASP-MN members must identify themselves as such and indicate that they are calling for a consultation under the AASP-MN Legal Services Program. Members should be prepared to articulate the facts underlying their legal question. • The call will be referred to an attorney or paralegal that specializes in the area of law which is the subject of the call.
AASP-MN is pleased to offer this valuable benefit to its members. During a day’s business, members come across relatively simple legal questions that, with access to affordable and appropriate expertise, are easily resolved. This program is designed to facilitate that process. For more information, contact the AASP-MN office at (612) 623-1110 or (800) 852-9071 or email aasp@aaspmn.org.
AASP-MN MEMBER BENEFIT PROGRAMS PROPERTY/LIABILITY AND WORKERS’ COMP INSURANCE CBIZ AIA Contact: Brad Schmid 763-549-2247 / bschmid@cbiz.com CBIZ AIA and United Fire Group (UFG) have created a program for members that includes a special premium discount, exclusive coverage and potential safety group dividend. CBIZ AIA can present quotes from multiple carriers and, as an added bonus, offer members an exclusive 10% discount on their property/liability insurance premiums.
LEGAL CONSULTATION Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick 800-496-6789 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.
WEBSITE AND INTERNET MARKETING SOLUTIONS Autoshop Solutions Contact: Tony Mercury 919-267-1731 / tony@autoshopsolutions.com EMPLOYEE BENEFITS Autoshop Solutions has developed the Business Planning Professionals most cutting-edge marketing platform for Contact: Dennis Begley AASP members. Really Powerful Marketing 612-308-6577 / dennis@begley-group.com (RPM) is an all-in-one program that bundles Business Planning Professionals will provide your website, pay-per-click, search engine AASP-MN members with quotes from multiple optimization, social media, and much more! carriers for life insurance, health insurance, With five levels of RPM to match your budget, long-term care and disability insurance. goals, and competition, it’s built to drive your shop forward! EMPLOYEE VOLUNTARY BENEFITS Colonial Life REPAIR SHOP PRODUCTS/SERVICES Contact: Deb Ferrao DISCOUNTS 612-600-4135 / deb.ferrao@coloniallifesales. CARS COOPERATIVE com Contact: Stephenie Sheppard or Tracy Bailey 405-547-4077 / membersupport@cars.coop 612-801-0139 / tracy.bailey@coloniallifesales. Members receive discounts on a variety of com products and services they use every day! Dedicated representatives can help members From discounts on paint and rental cars to transform their benefit package with office supplies and phone services. Over 50 competitive rates, value added services at programs available! no cost and complimentary legal document preparation service. Colonial Life has the tools INFORMATION PROVIDERS and flexibility to create a plan to fit everyone’s Mitchell 1 needs. Contact: Mitchell 1 Representative 888-724-6742 UNIFORM & LINEN SUPPLIES Mitchell 1 offers AASP members special Aramark discounts on the Mitchell 1 family of integrated Contact: John Majchrzak software tools. 612-670-4034/ majchrzak-john@aramark.com Discounted pricing to members on rental Mitchell International of uniforms, entrance mats, shop rags, etc. Contact: Mitchell International Representative Purchases are also discounted. Members 800-238-9111 receive annual rebate equal to 10% of their AASP members receive a 15% discount business with AmeriPride/Aramark each year. on any Mitchell RepairCenter TechAdvisor package. Visit ww.w.mitchell.com/ productsCREDIT CARD PROCESSING services/collision-repair-shop-solutions/cloudAssociation BankCard Services estimating for more information. Contact: Mac Hardin 952-933-2026 / mach@retailfinancialservices. TECHNICAL INFORMATION HOTLINE biz IDENTIFIX Competitive rates for AASP-MN members. 800-288-6220 Terminals and printers sold at cost. Monthly Members enjoy discounted prices on the rental of equipment is also available. industry’s #1 technical information hotline, Direct-Hit.
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AASP-MN News
CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICES Certegy Check Services 877-520-2987 Discount rate of .75% to AASP-MN members. Use existing credit card terminal. Fast claim payments. AUTO EMPLOYEE ASSESSMENT Assessment Associates International Contact: Nate Page 952-854-6551 / nate@aai-assessment.com Designed to help facilitate and enhance hiring decisions. AASP-MN members receive 50% off retail price, starting as low as $15 per assessment. BUSINESS FORMS/CALENDARS AASP-MN Contact: Jodi Pillsbury 612-623-1110 / jodi@aaspmn.org Discounted rates on printed business forms and calendars. SAFETY COMPLIANCE Complete, Health, Environmental & Safety Services, Inc. Contact: Carol Keyes 651-481-9787 / carkey@chess-safety.com AASP-MN members receive a 20% discount on Safety Data Sheet Management (SDSLinks), Right to Know(RTK)/Hazard Communication program customized for your facility and monthly safety reminders, and other safety, OSHA or environmental assistance. PAYROLL PROCESSING CBIZ Payroll Contact: Carrie Hobrough 612-436-4620 / chobrough@cbiz.com Members receive 20% discount off standard payroll products and services (excluding 401k). BUSINESS COACHING 180BIZ 540-833-2014 / info@180biz.com Members receive a 20% discount on oneon-one sales and management coaching programs (covering financial planning & analysis, strategic marketing, leadership and personnel development) without long-term commitments. Members also receive a 20% discount on monthly sales & management webinars as well as a 20% discount on all 180BIZ advisor training programs.
AASP-MN News
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