New England Automotive Report February 2014

PLUS: AASP/MA Raises Thousands for Anti-Steering Campaign - pg.16

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AUT M TIVE Serving The New England Collision AND Mechanical Repair Industry MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

February 2014 U.S.A. $5.95

“Mr. MABA” Moves On: Honoring Mike Beal

www.grecopublishing.com

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February 2014 • Volume 12, No. 2

CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 8 | AASP/MA Keeping Labor Rate Reform at the Forefront

by Molly Brodeur IN THE AREA 16 | AASP/MA Raises Thousands for Anti-Steering Campaign LEGAL PERSPECTIVE 18 | Back to the Basics, PART VII: Insurance Coverage for Auto Damage Claims

by James A. Castleman, Esq. VENDOR SPOTLIGHT 24 | Global Status, Local Support: Inside Volvo Village of Norwell LOCAL NEWS 44 | Rick’s Auto Collision Brings Holiday Cheer with Refurbished Sleigh 180BIZ FEATURE 48 | The Road to Success is Called “Failure”

by Rick White

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FEATURES 28 | “MR. MABA” MOVES ON: HONORING MIKE BEAL New England Automotive Report reflects on the career of an industry legend as he embarks on a new journey in life.

by Joel Gausten

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ALSO THIS ISSUE 10 | A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 19 | AASP/MA SUSTAINING SPONSORS 57 | AASP/MA MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION 58 | INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

41 | NORTHEAST® 2014 TO HIT NJ IN MARCH Industry members from across the region are gearing up for AASP/NJ's flagship event.

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AUT M TIVE STAFF

FEBRUARY 2014 February 11, 2014 AASP/MA MidState Chapter Meeting Doubletree Hotel 5400 Computer Dr., Westborough, MA

MARCH 2014 March 11, 2014 AASP/MA Statewide Meeting Doubletree Hotel 5400 Computer Dr., Westborough, MA March 21, 22, 23, 2014 AASP/NJ’s NORTHEAST® 2014 Automotive Services Show Meadowlands Exposition Center 355 Plaza Dr., Secaucus, NJ www.aaspnjnortheast.com for more information

PUBLISHER Thomas Greco (tgp22@verizon.net) MANAGING EDITOR Alicia Figurelli (tgp2@verizon.net) EDITOR Joel Gausten (tgpjoel@verizon.net)

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Norman Morano (800) 991-1995 (tgp5@verizon.net) ART DIRECTOR Lea Velocci (tgp3@verizon.net) PRODUCTION Sofia Cabrera (tgp4@verizon.net)

PUBLISHED BY: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 244 Chestnut Street, Suite 202, Nutley, NJ 07110 Corporate: (973) 667-6922 / FAX: (973) 235-1963 Advertising: (800) 991-1995 / FAX: (732) 280-6601 www.grecopublishing.com New England Automotive Report is published monthly by TGP, Inc., 244 Chestnut Street, Suite 202 Nutley, NJ 07110. Distributed free to qualified recipients; $48 to all others. Additional copies of New England Automotive Report are available at $5 per copy. Reproduction of any portions of this publication is specifically prohibited without written permission of the publisher. The opinions and ideas appearing in this magazine are not necessarily representations of TGP Inc. or of AASP/MA. Copyright © 2014 by Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. Cover image ©www.istockphoto.com/andresrimaging

MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

AASP/MA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Paul Hendricks VICE PRESIDENT Molly Brodeur SECRETARY Gary Cloutier ACTING TREASURER Molly Brodeur IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Rick Starbard

AASP/MA STATEWIDE DIRECTORS COLLISION DIVISION DIRECTOR Adam Ioakim ASSOCIATE DIVISION DIRECTOR Don Cushing

AASP/MA CHAPTER DIRECTORS

MEET INDUSTRY ICON CHIP FOOSE at NORTHEAST 2014 courtesy of BASF at Booth #227 STAR OF OVERHAULIN’

N/E CHAPTER COLLISION DIRECTOR Alex Falzone S/E CHAPTER COLLISION DIRECTOR Kevin Gallerani S/E CHAPTER MECHANICAL DIRECTOR Michael Penacho MIDSTATE CHAPTER COLLISION DIRECTOR Tom Ricci MIDSTATE CHAPTER MECHANICAL DIRECTOR Justin Forkuo WESTERN CHAPTER COLLISION DIRECTOR Peter Langone WESTERN CHAPTER MECHANICAL DIRECTOR Ed Nalewanski

Sat., March 22 10am - 2pm* * Autographs and photos with Chip Foose will end promptly at 2pm.

Sorry, no exceptions. ** Schedule subject to change.

FOR A FULL LISTING OF UPCOMING AASP/MA EVENTS AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES, PLEASE VISIT WWW.AASPMA.ORG

AASP/MA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Please note new phone/fax numbers!

Jillian M. Zywien Lynch Associates, Inc. Phone: (617) 574-0741 Fax: (617) 695-0173 Email: jzywien@lynchassociates.net

WWW.AASPMA.ORG New England Automotive Report February 2014 7

VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

AASP/MA KEEPING LABOR RATE REFORM AT THE FOREFRONT I’d like to begin this month’s message by informing our readership of a notable change in regards to AASP/MA’s current Labor Rate Bill initiative on Beacon Hill.

Rep. Kathi-Anne Reinstein, the sponsor of our Labor Rate Bill and a backer of House Speaker Robert DeLeo, has announced

her resignation from the public sector.

Kathi, who has been a major cheerleader for Labor Rate reform for years, plans to step down to accept a position as government affairs manager for the Boston Beer Company. We wish Kathi-Anne all the luck in the world as she begins this new

endeavor, and thank her for all the hard work she’s done on our behalf. Her support of the Bill is unwavering in spite of her resignation; even in her exit interview with Speaker DeLeo, she indicated that she wants to see Labor Rate reform become a reality. Kathi-Anne has been asked to identify who will pick up the torch following her departure, and Lynch Associates is working to help determine that individual and get them involved in our cause. The fact remains that time is passing quickly, and having an active sponsor of our Bill in place is a priority.

In addition to working to secure a new sponsor, AASP/MA is still continuing our meetings to educate key leaders on the Labor Rate Bill, including Rep. Michael Costello (D-Newburyport), chair of the Joint Committee on Financial Services; Barbara Anthony, undersecretary of the Office of Consumer Affairs & Business Regulation; and Kevin Beagan, director of the State Rating Bureau at the Massachusetts Division of Insurance, to name a few. With the help of Lynch Associates, AASP/MA is getting more and more face time with the decision-makers in the Legislature, and we are using these opportunities to inform as many legislators as possible to our industry’s plight. We have also aligned support with Harold Naughton, Jr., who will be running for Attorney General. He has indicated his commitment to helping further our goals if elected; as such, AASP/MA will happily continued on pg. 49

AASP/MA Vice President Molly Brodeur is the Chief Operating Officer of Al Brodeur’s Auto Body in Marlborough, MA. She can be reached at (508) 485-1082 or molly@albrodeur.com.

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A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

AASP/MA Launches Significant Education Campaign and Consumer Bill of Rights Website Dear Members, In my last report, I discussed the Board’s recent strategic planning session, which outlined our goals for the next three years. One of our most important components of that plan is consumer education and creating awareness around the issue of consumer rights, particularly steering. I am happy to announce that this month, AASP/MA will be launching a statewide radio campaign to enlighten consumers on their right to bring their vehicle to a repair shop of their choosing.

Too often, consumers are not aware of their rights, which may cause an insurance company to influence them away from their own trusted auto body shop. This is an issue many of our member shops are currently facing, and in an attempt to combat this ongoing problem, your leadership has approved an aggressive anti-steering radio campaign. Our consumer education ads will run on premier radio stations during prime time hours, including morning and evening commutes. Over the course of this winter campaign, having purchased spots on numerous stations across the entire Commonwealth, our message will total nearly

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10 million radio impressions. Every person who tunes in to the radio in Massachusetts will hear our ad an average of four times.

In addition, listeners will be directed to a website outlining all of their rights to a quality, safe repair covered by their insurer.

This campaign depends on the support of the entire industry to educate drivers on their rights. We are funding this enormous effort by offering the auto body industry the chance to be personally identified in these ads. At the conclusion of each ad, a body shop can purchase the opportunity to have it sponsored directly by their shop. We have opportunities in all geographic locations, so that you can buy in the market where you are located. Members will receive special discounting on their ads as part of their dues-paying benefit package, but all shops are to eligible to participate.

If you are an industry leader who wants to stand up and be counted, help us to provide consumers with a better understanding of their rights. Don’t let the insurance company take another one of YOUR customers away. Act now; these advertising opportunities will sell out. Purchase your ad TODAY.

First and foremost, I would like to thank our Board for their leadership in supporting this important educational campaign. I would also like to thank Rob Del Gallo of Factory Collision for providing a lot of the creative ideas you will see.

This is an exciting time at AASP/MA, but we need your support. If you are interested in purchasing an ad or making a donation, please visit our Website at www.aaspma.org. If you are not a member, please join today and become a vital part of “building the success of the auto body industry.�

Click the join now button on our homepage.

Price per Ad Radio Buy

Sincerely, Jillian Zywien, Executive Director

MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

AASP/MA Executive Director Jillian Zywien has been a senior account executive at Lynch Associates for over six years. She can be reached at (617) 574-0741 or via email at jzywien@ lynchassociates.net.

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IN THE AREA

AASP/MA RAISES THOUSANDS FOR ANTI-STEERING MEDIA CAMPAIGN Within a few short weeks, 9.3 million people could end up knowing the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Massachusetts – and receive a valuable warning about the dangers of steering.

Wasting no time in kicking off a proactive agenda for 2014, AASP/MA used its first Statewide Meeting of the year on January 14 in Westborough to announce plans to launch an extensive radio advertising campaign to inform Commonwealth consumers of their right to have their vehicle repaired at the shop of their choosing. The text for the radio spot reads as follows:

Don’t lose control after a crash.

You pay insurance for a safe repair.

You have the right to choose an auto body shop that works for you.

It’s your ride, you decide.com Paid for by the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Massachusetts The goal of the campaign is to drive hits to www.itsyour rideyoudecide.com, which will direct users to a special page on the AASP/MA website (www.aaspma.org) featuring the Consumer Bill of Rights. In an effort to maximize consumer

engagement, AASP/MA worked with Art Kinsman, media coordinator for the hugely successful Massachusetts Right to Repair campaign, to develop a strategic list of the top radio stations in the Commonwealth based on pricing and exposure (see chart on page 11). The month-long campaign, which will begin on February 15, will have the potential to reach 9.3 million consumers.

“We only have six million people in the state,” explained Peter D’Agostino, COO of Lynch Associates and a member of the AASP/MA executive team. “There’s a pretty good chance we’re going to have some impact. But we can’t do it without you.”

In order to be successful in this endeavor, AASP/MA needs to secure $127,000 in funding by February 9. Shops can support the campaign by purchasing “tags” that appear at the end of the radio ad. For example, if XYZ Body Shop pays for a tag, “Paid for the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Massachusetts and XYZ Body Shop” will be heard at the end of the spot.

“You could be heard on any of the stations of your choosing,” offered AASP/MA Vice President Molly Brodeur. “We’ve created a campaign that makes it affordable for everybody in this

From left: AASP/MA Lobbyist Anne Lynch updated members on various initiatives at the State House and beyond; David Jackson of G&K Services detailed his company’s new relationship with AASP/MA; AASP/MA Executive Team Member Peter D’Agostino outlined the association’s current media outreach activities.

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Left: AASP/MA Vice President Molly Brodeur urged attendees to contribute to the association’s consumer awareness radio campaign.

Right: Steve Elkinson of Promotional Partners discussed his company’s work on the new AASP/MA merchandise website.

room to take part. This is probably the largest media initiative that the collision industry has ever embarked on in Massachusetts.”

As a way to generate prompt support, Brodeur and AASP/ MA Lobbyist Anne Lynch offered highly discounted rates for these tags to the members who attended the Statewide Meeting. The response was immediate and encouraging; by the end of the evening, $40,000 had been contributed to the campaign.

Even without the one-time-only discount available at the meeting, the rates offered to AASP/MA are a small fraction of what it would cost to purchase an ad on your own. In certain Massachusetts markets, it’s not uncommon to spend $10,000 for an ad to appear on the air once daily for a month. As evident on page 11, AASP/MA members can hit the same target audience at a drastically reduced cost.

“We really want to blow up the airwaves with this campaign, and we’re so excited about it,” Brodeur said.

At the end of the campaign, AASP/MA will be able to produce data that’s going to show who heard it, as well as the listeners’ age groups/demographics. The association also plans to provide Google Analytics that will show how many people actually visited the website and viewed the consumer information.

“It’s not like we’re throwing money at it and you really don’t know what the results are going to be,” Brodeur noted. “We’re going to be able to give you a significant amount of data.”

AASP/MA is hoping that the radio campaign will mirror the success enjoyed by the Massachusetts Right to Repair campaign, which won the attention and support of 73 percent of Massachusetts voters – making it the highest positive vote for the ballot question in state history.

“They had low numbers from polling, [but] they came in with a high number of votes,” Lynch explained. “That tells you the media campaign is getting the job done.”

For more information on AASP/MA consumer awareness campaign, please contact Executive Director Jillian Zywien at (617) 574-0741.

Government Affairs Update Prior to the campaign announcement, Lynch provided attendees with an overview of some of the association’s recent activities on the legislative and regulatory fronts. Since the previous AASP/MA Statewide Meeting in October, Representative Kathi-Anne Reinstein (D-Revere) – the sponsor of the longrunning Labor Rate Bill – announced her resignation from the Legislature. Reinstein, who is presently working to identify a new representative in the House to carry on the Labor Rate cause, was praised by Lynch for being “continually, completely loyal to her efforts” on behalf of the association.

Recently, Lynch joined AASP/MA Executive Director Jillian Zywien and members of the Board of Directors for a meeting with Consumer Affairs Undersecretary Barbara Anthony to discuss how issues between shops and insurers ultimately affect consumers in the Commonwealth.

“As we’ve mentioned in the past, we’re taking a multifaceted approach to what your government problems are,” Lynch offered. “In this case, [Undersecretary Anthony] could be helpful because her agency was actually [involved in] conducting the Auto Body Labor Rate Study; they were actually the agency that came out with the recommendations to the Legislature [in 2009] to raise the Labor Rate.”

Lynch promised that AASP/MA will continue to build stronger ties with state government entities as this election year moves on.

Exploring New Benefits The Statewide Meeting concluded with presentations by Steve Elkinson of Promotional Partners and David Jackson of G&K Services. Both companies recently signed on to offer special benefit programs to AASP/MA members.

Based in Marlborough, Promotional Partners is currently working with AASP/MA in developing an online membership continued on pg. 57 New England Automotive Report February 2014 17

LEGAL PERSPECTIVE

BACK TO BASICS: THE

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INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR AUTO DAMAGE CLAIMS

by James A. Castleman, Esq. *The seventh and final installment in a series of articles giving overviews of the major laws affecting collision repair facilities in Massachusetts. Read previous parts of this series by visiting www.grecopublishing.com to view past issues.

No matter how independent you may believe your shop to be, the reality is that most motor vehicle damage repairs are paid for by auto insurers. Consequently, almost all collision repair shops depend on insurance payments to be able to survive.

Due to this reality, it is imperative to know whether or not insurance coverage will be available to pay for repairs to your customer's car. You do not want to find out - as several of my clients over the years have - that you have spent huge amounts of time and money to repair a vehicle, only to have your customer’s insurer denying responsibility for paying the claim. In order to protect yourself from this possibility, you have to know how motor vehicle insurance coverage works.

First Party or Third Party?

The starting point for understanding auto insurance coverage is to know the difference between so-called “first-party” and “third-party” insurance. First-party insurance coverage is provided and governed by the insurance contract your customer has with his or her own auto insurer. Collision, limited collision, comprehensive, substitute transportation and towing insurance are all examples of first-party coverage.

Third-party coverage is provided by the insurance contract that someone else (a “third party”) has with his or her insurer.

The insurer is responsible to pay if the third party’s actions caused damage to your customer’s car. Property damage liability insurance encompasses all aspects of property damage resulting from an accident, and is the only type of third-party auto coverage that might be available to pay for damage to your customer’s car.

Knowing the difference between first-party and third-party coverage is important, because it determines what an insurer’s obligations are with regard to having to pay a claim.

Attorney James Castleman is a managing member of Paster, Rice & Castleman, LLC in Quincy, MA. He can be reached at (617) 472-3424 or at

jcastleman@prclawoffice.com.

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For first-party coverage, an insurer’s obligations are determined by the insurance contract that it has with your customer.

The insurer has to pay for everything covered by their contract, but only for what is covered by their contract. If your customer has collision coverage and has not breached his or her contract with their insurer, then his or her insurer is responsible for paying the full cost of repair caused by a collision, up to the actual cash value of the vehicle or its parts, subject only to any applicable deductible. If your customer does not have collision coverage, then their insurer has no obligation to pay for any damage to his or her car caused by a collision.

For third-party coverage, the third party’s insurer is responsible to pay for all reasonably foreseeable damages that their insured would be obligated to pay under legal “tort” principles as a result of their insured’s actions, subject only to the amount of coverage purchased by their insured. Essentially, the insurer has to pay whatever a court would rule their insured to be responsible for if a lawsuit were brought by your customer against the third party. If the insurer is on the hook, then they have to pay for the full cost of repair of your customer’s car, the cost of towing, the cost of your customer’s rental car, all related taxes and maybe even for the decrease in value to your customer’s car that results from it being in an accident. However, they only have to pay if their insured’s actions caused the damage, and their obligation may be reduced by the percentage of your customer’s own “contributory” negligence.

Basic First-Party Coverages All first-party auto insurance coverages are optional in Massachusetts. Your customer has to choose to purchase a particular type of first-party coverage in order to have it. The typical types of coverages that your customer may have that may affect you are: Collision Coverage: By statute, under collision coverage, an insurer is obligated to pay either its insured or to their repair shop if the insured directs, “for direct and accidental loss of or damage to the insured motor vehicle.” This amount is up to the actual cash value of the vehicle or its parts, subject to a $500 deductible, caused by collision of the vehicle “with another object or with a vehicle to which it is attached, or by upset of the insured motor vehicle.” Collision insurance benefits are paid

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(617) 574-0741 / jzywien@lynchassociates.net New England Automotive Report February 2014 19

LEGAL PERSPECTIVE without regard to negligence or fault.

There are also a few options applicable to collision coverage. One is that an insured may buy down to a $300 deductible, or up to a $1,000 deductible.

And for a relatively small additional premium, an insured may purchase “waiver of deductible” coverage, whereby the insurer has to pay the amount of the deductible as part of the claim if the insured is 50 percent or less at fault in the accident that caused the damage. The governing statute lists certain situations where the insured is automatically considered to be 50% or less at fault, such as if their car is parked when hit, if they are rear-ended by another vehicle or if they are hit by a person convicted of operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol, operating the wrong way on a one way street, speeding or of various other motor vehicle related offenses. In all of these cases, however, the person operating the other vehicle must be able to be identified.

Limited Collision coverage is similar to collision coverage, but it is a much less expensive option, only payable by the

insurer if the insured is 50 percent or less at fault. The same listed situations apply for automatically finding that the insured is 50 percent or less at fault.

Loss of use, sometimes referred to as “substitute transportation” coverage, is an additional option that can be purchased. Although the coverage is described in the statute that governs collision coverage, it applies whatever the cause of the loss is. Under this coverage, an insurer will pay up to $15, $30 or $100 per day (depending on the coverage purchased) up to a maximum of 30 days, for the insured to use other transportation while his or her car cannot be operated because of a collision or other insured loss.

Towing and labor insurance pays the towing and labor costs incurred when the insured’s vehicle becomes disabled, up to the limits purchased. Under this coverage, the insurer will pay only for the labor needed to get their insured’s car going at the scene, and it will not pay the cost of any parts needed to accomplish this. So, if the insured’s battery has run down, this coverage will pay for a jump start, but it

will not pay for a new battery.

Comprehensive insurance covers losses for “direct and accidental” damage to a vehicle other than that caused by a collision. Compensable losses include those caused by fire, theft and vandalism, as well as by “missiles, falling objects, larceny, explosion, earthquake, windstorm, hail, water, flood, malicious mischief, riot or contact with a bird or animal.” Glass damage, when not caused by a collision covered event, is also paid for under comprehensive coverage.

If the insured’s vehicle is stolen, they must report the theft to both the insurer and the police. Comprehensive coverage also pays for substitute transportation for a stolen vehicle, whether or not the insured has separately purchased loss of use coverage. If a covered vehicle suffers a fire loss, then the fire must be reported by the insured to both the insurer and the fire department.

Like collision coverage, the insured will have a deductible under comprehensive coverage that they have to pay out of their own pocket, with $500 as the standard, but with options to buy down to $300 or up to $1,000. The deductible, however, does not apply to glass losses or substitute transportation payments.

Basic Third-Party Coverage - Property Damage Liability As noted above, property damage liability insurance covers a third party for payments that they would legally be obligated to pay for damage to your customer’s vehicle. In Massachusetts, it is mandatory that all vehicle owners purchase $5,000 of property damage coverage; higher optional limits are available for an additional premium. Property damage coverage is all inclusive and pays not only repair costs, but also sales taxes and substitute transportation costs.

Excuses Not to Pay Even if there appears to be insurance (whether first or third party) to cover a loss, it is imperative that collision repair shop owners be aware that there are numerous reasons that an insurer may not have to pay.

The number one excuse that an insurer can use to deny coverage is that the insured has breached their contract of insurance. An example of a significant breach that occurs is when the insured

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has not paid the required premium and their insurance has been canceled.

Other common breaches that may allow an insurer to deny coverage include allowing an inexperienced or higher premium-rated household member to use the vehicle (when he or she has not been listed on the insurance policy as an operator) and misrepresenting to the insurer where the vehicle is principally garaged when the actual place of garaging is in a higher premium-rated territory. Although not seeming to really be a breach, the Massachusetts private passenger insurance policy allows an insurer to deny coverage when a person is using the insured vehicle for “livery” or other similar public conveyance for hire.

An insurer may also be able to deny coverage if their insured fails to cooperate with the insurer in the investigation of the claim.

For body shops, it is important to note that the insurance coverages described in this article will not apply if the vehicle is damaged while in your possession for the purpose of making repairs. In that circumstance, your garagekeepers liability insurance becomes the main coverage. If a car is damaged while in your possession, you should immediately report the loss to your own liability carrier.

There are numerous other reasons that an insurer may use to try to deny coverage. It is not the purpose of this article to cover them in depth, but you should be always be careful to make sure that your customer’s insurer, or the insurer for the third party responsible for the loss, is actually going to be making payment before you let a repaired car out the door.

Miscellaneous There are many subtleties to analyzing whether insurance coverage exists, and many nuances governing what an insurer may, or may not, have to pay on a claim. Further, a major question is often whether a shop and its customer should be looking to the customer’s own firstparty coverage or to a responsible person’s third-party coverage to pay for a claim. But these are topics to be covered more in depth in other articles. For now, it is important for members of the collision repair industry to know the basics of auto insurance coverage, and to be aware that the other issues exist.

New England Automotive Report February 2014 21 MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

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VENDOR SPOTLIGHT

GLOBAL STATUS, LOCAL SUPPORT: Inside Volvo Village of Norwell Serving body shops from Boston down to the Cape, Volvo Village of Norwell has easily become of one of Massachusetts’ most prominent wholesale providers. Previously known as South Shore Volvo, the dealer became a part of the Village Automotive Group in 2009. Celebrating its fifth year in operation this May, Volvo Village of Norwell joins Boston Volvo Village in Allston/ Brighton, Hyundai Village of Danvers, Nissan Village of North Attleboro, Honda Village of Newton, Audi Norwell and Porsche of Norwell in providing unbeatable value to vehicle owners and parts customers alike. According to the dealership’s website (www.volvovillagenorwell.com), the group sells more Volvos annually than anyone else in New England. In fact, outside of Sweden, Village Automotive has sold more Volvos and Volvo parts than anyone else on the planet!

Currently housing a $300,000 inventory in collision and mechanical products, the Volvo Village of Norwell wholesale department is overseen by Parts Manager Peg Walsh. A parts professional since 1987, Walsh has earned a strong reputation in the area’s automotive community thanks to her 20-plus years at the helm at South Shore Volvo. Now working as part of a family of dealers, she has the ability to pull parts from the Village Automotive Group’s other Volvo stores as needed. This unique arrangement, coupled with the expertise of counterpeople Brian Mahan and Bob Monaghan, ensures that shop customers get the parts when they need them.

“It makes it a little bit easier if you need something the same day,” she says. “We have a bigger inventory to draw from.”

And even in those rare instances where none of the dealers have the part in stock, Walsh has the situation covered.

“We can usually get anything that we don’t have in stock and can’t source locally in the morning the next day and get it out for delivery in the afternoon,” she says.

In addition to supplying parts, Volvo Village of Norwell strives to be a dependable source of technical and repair information for their customers. Whether a technician has an issue with a code or needs a technical service bulletin, Walsh and her crew are always available and happy to help shop clients get their customers back on the road quickly and safely.

Despite fierce competition in the wholesale parts market, the dealer maintains its presence in the field by focusing on quality over quantity. At a time when more and more insurers are pushing the use of aftermarket parts, Walsh works hard to make sure that her customers always have a choice.

“We try to be competitive with the pricing so that the body shops can use factory parts,” she says. “The body shops would rather use genuine parts; they fit better and shops don’t have to refinish them.”

When not winning the war against non-OE parts, the Village Automotive Group has a history of taking a proactive approach to other major industry changes as well: Currently, shops can order and receive high-quality Saab parts through the Boston Volvo Village location in Allston. With this celebrated dealer group, there is no such thing as a problem that can’t be solved – or a customer who leaves disappointed.

MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

Under the direction of Parts Manager Peg Walsh, the Volvo Village of Norwell wholesale department is committed to quality parts, competitive prices and timely support to body shops from Boston down to the Cape.

The Volvo Village of Norwell parts department is open Monday through Friday from 7am to 6pm and Saturday from 8am to 1pm. For more information, please call (781) 829-3120 or (888) GO-4-VOLVO or email Peg Walsh at mwalsh@volvovillagenorwell.com.

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COVER STORY

“Mr. MABA” Moves On: Honoring Mike Beal

©www.istockphoto.com/andresrimaging

By Joel Gausten

Anyone who has read New England Automotive Report over the years or spent even a little bit of time with body shops in Western Massachusetts surely knows the name Mike Beal. One of the most dedicated and revered members of the AASP/MA community, Mike has built an impressive history of active industry participation that includes a stint as president of the Western Chapter in addition to being the driving force behind some of the state’s most successful events. Now, with his loving wife Mary by his side, Mike is enjoying a well-earned retirement. This month, New England Automotive Report takes a look back at his extraordinary time in the industry and the powerful legacy he has left for generations of repairers to come.

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From Shop Owner to Leader When Mike opened Michael’s Frame & Collision Service in Westfield in 1981, he knew that his road to success would be best paved by fostering relationships with others in his field. This philosophy led him to seek out membership in what was then the Massachusetts Auto Body Association (MABA).

“I felt that anybody who had any kind of business should join a group that watches over that business or profession,” he says. “I knew I wanted to get everybody on the same page and get some camaraderie out there, so I worked very hard to do that.”

Before long, Mike built a solid reputation as a leader who took action when things needed to be done. Throughout his time in the association, Mike made it a point to continually reach out to other shops, state legislators and industry vendors to help improve conditions in the industry.

“He was really good at identifying an issue and then being proactive in doing something about it,” offers Western Chapter member Mike Boucher (Custom Auto Body). “He was always in the lead to change things. I was always in awe of his ability to get groups of people together to do things that were good for the industry.”

For many members in the Western part of the state, Beal’s participation wasn’t just a kind gesture – it was literally something that helped them succeed in business. Take current AASP/MA Secretary Gary Cloutier, for example. Back in the ’80s, Cloutier called upon Mike to do his frame work in the early days of his shop, Cloot’s Auto Body. Mike’s helpful nature proved a powerful motivator for other shops to start cooperating with each other.

“It’s funny how you start out and you look at someone as a competitor, but you get to know that person and realize they have the same fights that you’re trying to fight,” Cloutier says. “You start to look at each other more as colleagues than competitors.”

As the years carried on, Cloutier continually saw and respected Mike’s unwavering commitment to positively impacting critical industry issues like paint and material reimbursement or the Labor Rate.

“There are three kinds of people in this world: People who make things happen, people who watch things happen and people who ask, ‘What just happened?’” he says. “Mike was always someone who made things happen. He wasn’t afraid to get up and say something in a crowd. He always spoke his opinion, which I admire.”

“He never backed down on anything,” adds fellow Western Chapter member Don Vermette (Vermette Auto Body). “He was always willing to help out. He stood up and spoke and tried to put together meaningful meetings.

He always tried to get a good speaker and a good topic.”

Mike’s selfless dedication left a strong impression on more than just body shop owners.

“Mike was always there for the association,” remarks Jim Loomis, parts manager at Sarat Ford/Lincoln in Agawan. “Mike is one of those guys you can always talk to.”

One of Mike’s greatest accomplishments in this capacity was organizing a special gathering between association members and state politicians at the Hu Ke Lau Restaurant in Chicopee. The evening event, which drew nearly 200 people and provided an opportunity for repairers to discuss the Labor Rate and other industry issues with their representatives, was one of many successful association events that happened because of Mike’s determination and drive.

“Mike was relentless in pursuing a fair Labor Rate for the industry,” remembers AASP/MA member Ed Nalewanski (Ed’s Auto Body). “He was in constant contact with [then] Senator Knapik and Representative [now Senator] Humason. The Western Chapter made numerous trips to the State House, and Mike was on every single one of them. Mike always said that we have ‘right on our side’ - which we do!

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COVER STORY “Mike was always there; always involved,” Nalewanski adds.

“In fact, he single-handedly ran the Clambake for at least 10 years. Back in those days, there was no such thing as Fax Central or email. He faxed out Clambake notices manually – he literally stood in front of his fax machine and dialed each fax number individually. We used to call him ‘Mr. MABA.’” Not surprisingly, “Mr. MABA”’s enthusiasm for association life rubbed off on his better half.

“Mike would go to the meetings every month, and he’d come home and we’d talk about all these different people,” remembers Mary. “I decided that I wanted to meet some of these people; they sounded like really nice, hardworking people like us.”

Mary soon began attending meetings, eventually becoming a longtime treasurer for the Chapter.

“I really enjoyed going to the meetings,” she recalls. “I liked the idea that everybody talked to one another and shared things.

You hear about a lot of professions where everybody’s at loggerheads, but I think we in the Western Chapter were very supportive of each other. It’s a super group of people.”

Of course, anyone who worked alongside Mike knows that he was quite a talented prankster – something that fellow Western Chapter member Dan Lamontagne (White Lightning Auto Body) learned firsthand.

“Mike would call everybody and say, ‘Hey, we’re meeting tonight at my shop to do the tool boxes for the Clambake. You bring the beer,’” he recalls. “As a result, everybody showed up with a case of beer, and Mike would sit there laughing. He was good at that.”

Not surprisingly, Beal considers the strong fellowship he established within the Western Chapter to be his greatest accomplishment as an association member.

“I think we had a strong group out here because we believed in each other and all worked together,” he says. “It never really mattered if you were on an insurance company’s list or not; we didn’t shun anyone.

“The meetings were always good, but the ‘after meetings’ were better,” he continues. “One of the guys I was sitting next to would tell me things about his business, and I would tell him things about my business. We’d solve a lot of problems just like that.”

And then there’s the guy who Mike affectionately calls “The Kid.” A former MABA Board member and Western Chapter president, Don Muccino (ACME Automotive) shares a strong friendship with Mike that has lasted nearly two decades. In “The Kid”’s mind, Beal’s straightforward demeanor was a true asset to the association’s success.

“Mike’s pretty much black and white; he’d tell you the way it was,” he says. “A lot of times in our industry, we kind of beat around the bush a little bit, but Mike didn’t. He was the type of person who had a belief in how things were supposed to be.

When he believed in something, he was pretty steadfast in regards to making his thoughts known.”

Like many, Muccino is happy to see Mike and Mary finally make the time to do good things for those who truly deserve it most – themselves.

“Mike and Mary would give the shirts off their backs to help you at any given time,” he says. “You don’t find wholesome people like that, who just don’t think of themselves. But Mike was 30 February 2014 New England Automotive Report

Mary and Mike Beal (pictured here with Don Muccino, center) were honored at AASP/MA's 2013 Casino NIght for their contributions to the industry. the type of person who wanted to give back.”

When not giving their time and energy to the association, Mike and Mary grew their shop into one of the most celebrated repair businesses in the region. At its peak, Mike’s Frame & Collision Service performed 24-hour tow services for AAA and the local police and boasted 19 employees. Along the way, they learned how to find a successful balance between their business and family lives.

“We had two separate jobs; Mary ran the books, and I ran the everyday operation of the shop,” explains Mike. “We’d butt heads every now and then, but we always tried to leave it at the shop. I didn’t make a decision without asking her opinion. I couldn’t think of a better partner than her.”

“People would ask, ‘How could you work with your husband?

You’re in the same office.’ I’d say, ‘Who wants us to succeed more than I do?’” Mary adds. “I could have stayed in the banking business, but when Mike had the idea to start a business, I said, ‘Who else is going to work as hard as I will to make this succeed?’ We worked together to achieve the same goals.”

Rising Above Mike’s very active history in MABA and AASP/MA is made even more respectable given the fact that he contributed so much while fighting a nearly 25-year battle against Parkinson’s Disease. First diagnosed in 1990, Mike diligently kept his business and livelihood afloat – and still regularly attended association meetings and events – even during periods when he found it difficult to walk or speak.

“He is one of the most courageous people I know,” offers Boucher. “There were days when most of us would be flat on our backs in bed, but Mike would be out in the shop working on a frame machine. That’s how dedicated he was to the customers he had and the industry he was part of. If he gave somebody his word that he was going to do something, he would do everything that he could to keep his promise.”

“What Mike gave back and what he did – at a very, very difficult time in his life – is admirable,” adds Muccino. “He’s a strong person, and Mary was equally as strong – if not stronger.”

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COVER STORY

Left: Mike and Mary with daughters Rebekah (far left) and Eileen (far right), enjoying the 2013 AASP/MA Casino Night.

Right: In September 2011, Mike was surprised by longtime friend Don Muccino, who refurbished the shop owner's prized 1952 F-1 Ford pickup truck as a special gift. Photo courtesy of the Republican and www.Masslive.com.

Mike never shied away from dealing with his illness – or being upfront about it with others.

“I always greeted my customers with, ‘Hi, I’m Mike Beal. I have Parkinson’s Disease. It’s a neurological disease; you can’t catch it,’” he says.

“There would be a little humor there, and it just relaxed people,” adds Mary.

Although the company had remained prosperous over the years, Mike and Mary

eventually decided it was time to move on and enjoy some well-deserved downtime.

On February 28, 2013, the final car was released from Mike’s Frame & Collision Service; two months later, the Beals were on vacation in Italy. Nearly a year after saying farewell to their beloved industry, Mike and Mary look back on their decision without regrets.

“In our heart of hearts, we knew this was the right time,” Mary says. “It’s been

a good decision. When you do something for that many years, there’s a lot of pressure. Now, we just have to take care of ourselves, our family and our yard. We just take it a day at a time, and whatever happens happens.”

“Every day is Sunday,” adds Mike. “I don’t have anybody to answer to.”

Plans for the future include a trip down to Florida to visit their youngest daughter, Rebekah, who is currently stationed there with the Coast Guard. Oldest daughter Eileen, a social worker, lives near Mom and Dad and continues to be a tremendous help to them.

The Gift For many years, the Beal family found happiness in one of Mike’s most prized possessions, a 1952 F-1 Ford pickup. A true Westfield staple, the truck was a regular part of town parades until it fell into disrepair as Mike’s Parkinson’s progressed. Saddened by the truck’s state, Muccino eventually purchased it from Mike. Unbeknownst to its original owner, Muccino bought it to secretly restore it back to its former glory and give it back to Mike as a special gift.

In September 2011, Mike and Mary opened the door of their home to find the revitalized truck – along with dozens of their dearest friends – in the driveway.

The timing of the event was especially meaningful to Mike, who was going through a particularly bad patch emotionally at the time.

“It was probably one of the worst weekends of my life, and then on that Sunday, everybody appeared in our yard,” he says. “That was unbelievable; it was a

34 February 2014 New England Automotive Report

complete shock to me. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.”

“I looked like it had just came out of a showroom,” adds Mary. “It was just incredible that someone would do that for us.”

In May 2012, the refurbished ride made its triumphant return to the Westfield Memorial Day Parade.

With industry legends like Mike and fellow shop owner Walter Thomas moving on, now is the time for the association’s younger members to step up and follow in their footsteps of leadership and inspiration.

“It’s sad that Mike worked so hard to get a decent Labor Rate, and it didn’t happen,” shares Nalewanski. “Now that his shop is closed, he will never benefit from all those years of rallying for a fair wage, but the younger shops will – and they should get more involved.”

Even though new blood will enter the industry and association, there will never be another industry professional quite like Mike Beal. As long as AASP/MA exists to help strengthen the collision repair industry, you can bet continued on pg. 58

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Over 300 booths and 150 vendors across 55,000 square feet of floor space!

NORTHEAST® 2014 features industry-leading exhibitors, top-notch training and FRIDAY, MARCH 21 informational updates for the repair community, all centrally located at the 5PM-10PM Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, NJ 6,000 FREE PARKING spaces available!

SATURDAY, MARCH 22 10AM-5PM Save time - pre-register SUNDAY, MARCH 23 10AM-3PM online at www.aaspnjnortheast.com

FREE

MEET INDUSTRY ICON CHIP FOOSE at NORTHEAST 2014 courtesy of BASF at Booth #227 STAR OF OVERHAULIN’ Sat., March 22 10am - 2pm* * Autographs and photos with Chip Foose will end promptly at 2pm.

Sorry, no exceptions. ** Schedule subject to change.

Follow us on

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NORTHEAST® PREVIEW

NORTHEAST 2014 to Hit NJ in March Celebrity Appearances, Exciting Events to Highlight Nation's Largest Regional Show On March 21-23, the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey (AASP/NJ) will host the 37th Annual NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, NJ. With excitement over the show building by the day, a slew of longtime AASP/NJ supporters are working hard to move this legendary event into a thrilling new era.

First, AASP/NJ is pleased to announce that BASF will serve as this year’s NORTHEAST Platinum Show sponsor.

“We look at AASP/NJ as the core of the industry in New Jersey,” says BASF Regional Sales Manager Roy Griep. “It’s very important to support it, and we appreciate being able to take part in these types of events and support the people who support the entire auto body industry. That’s why we’ve continued to stay involved in the show throughout the years.”

Perhaps BASF’s biggest contribution to this year’s festivities is that they have made arrangements to have automotive TV star Chip Foose (Overhaulin’) make a special appearance at NORTHEAST on Saturday, March 22.

Tom Smetanka, general manager of Central Paint in Trenton, NJ, is confident that Foose – whose background includes stints as a hot rod shop owner, designer and fabricator – will offer something truly unique to the NORTHEAST experience.

“We had Chip at one of our past distributor shows with much success,” he says. “He’s a down-to-earth body shop guy.

He’s somebody who the body shop guys can relate to; he doesn’t act like he’s above anyone. [Attendees] can relate to Chip because he’s one of them. He started in a body shop with his father, and he’s just developed from there.”

Of course, Smetanka isn’t the only Garden State auto pro anxious to greet Foose on the NORTHEAST floor.

“Chip Foose will make a fantastic addition to our schedule this year,” offers AASP/NJ President Jeff McDowell. “His guest appearance at the show will only add to the full slate of industry events and educational seminars we have planned for our 37th year.”

Away from the Show floor, NORTHEAST attendees have an opportunity to experience some of the finest seminars and training this industry has to offer. I-CAR will be on hand to not only present its all-new “Vehicle Technology & Trends 2014” course (hosted by I-CAR mainstay Pete Fryzel), but also to offer a four-hour course on “Aluminum-Intensive Vehicle Repairs.” In addition to having an expanded booth on the Show floor, I-CAR

will be promoting its Welding Training & Certification program.

Frequent New England Automotive Report technical writer Larry Montanez will offer a special course on “Best Practices for Welding & Estimating,” while Tom Beck of Future Cure will present “Painting with Nitrogen: Inside the Collision Industry’s BestKept Secret.” Other NORTHEAST presenters scheduled at press time include John Niechwiadowicz of Performance Consulting Services, Jim Saeli of Management Success (“The ‘Gauges’ of Your Business”), NetDriven (“The Traditional Buying Process Turns Digital: Are You Keeping Up with the Changes?”) and attorneys Mitch Portnoi and Doug Sherman (“Business Continuation Planning - Inside Buying or Selling a Business”).

Additionally, NORTHEAST will serve as the meeting point for a variety of industry associations and advocacy groups from across the country. On March 21, representatives from a variety of AASP affiliate states (including Massachusetts) will gather for the first AASP National Board meeting of 2014. In addition to housing discussions pertaining to national benefit providers and industry-wide initiatives, the meeting will provide an opportunity for the affiliates in attendance to provide reports on their individual states’ activities on behalf of the industry.

Later that day, AASP/NJ and the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will join forces to co-host the annual East Coast Resolution Forum & Leadership Meeting. A staple of the NORTHEAST Show, the Forum welcomes local and national industry representatives for an afternoon review of how their respective groups are working to address the collision repair community’s most pressing issues. Ed Kizenberger, executive director of the Long Island Auto Body Repairmen’s Association (LIABRA), will once again moderate the event.

Other special events scheduled throughout the weekend include an Exhibitor Appreciation After-Party with guest comedian/singer Gary DeLena (Late Night with David Letterman/Live! with Regis & Kathie Lee), the First Annual NORTHEAST/Natural Glass Corvette Association (NGCA) Car Show and the first-ever AASP/NJ Virtual Spray Paint Tournament (presented by VRSim). More NORTHEAST details will be announced in next month’s issue of New England Automotive Report.

MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

For more information on NORTHEAST 2014, visit www.aaspnjnortheast.com, the NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show on Facebook, the NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show YouTube page (www.youtube.com/user/ AASPNJNORTHEAST) or on Twitter @AASPNJNORTHEAST. Free online registration is available at www.aaspnjnortheast.com/registration.shtml.

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LOCAL NEWS

RICK’S AUTO COLLISION BRINGS HOLIDAY CHEER WITH REFURBISHED SLEIGH Citizens of Lynn, MA who attended the town’s annual Christmas Eve Parade in December got to experience something truly special thanks to their friends at AASP/MA member shop Rick’s Auto Collision (Revere). After a lengthy restoration process by Rick’s and General Electric, a completely refurbished version of the parade’s legendary sleigh was unveiled to a cheering crowd.

A celebrated part of the Lynn Christmas Eve Parade for several years, the sleigh was restored in memory of Rich Viger, a beloved Lynn resident who founded the first parade with John’s Oil in 1986. Viger loved to bring smiles to the city and the spirit of the holiday season every Christmas Eve to old and young alike. Known for his good nature and generous spirit, Viger would often take time out to visit a sick child or a family in need in the city in addition to his role in organizing the parade. Rick’s Auto Collision and

Photo courtesy

GE devoted time and resources to make the sleigh – which had fallen into disrepair after years of use – as good as new to honor Viger for all that he had done for his community. The finished project wowed spectators throughout the Christmas Eve Parade’s 23-mile jaunt through the City of Lynn. Large enough to seat four people, the new sleigh appeared in an earlier form during the Columbus Day Parade in Revere on October 14.

MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

Rick's Auto Collision and General Electric went to great lengths to revitalize the legendary sleigh used in the Lynn, MA annual Christmas Eve Parade.

Inset Below: Don and Janet Melanson as Santa and

A)

m of Lynn (M

of The Daily Ite

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Mrs. Claus in the Lynn Christmas Eve Parade.

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180BIZ FEATURE

THE ROAD TO SUCCESS IS CALLED “FAILURE” When you advance into new areas of your business, you will make mistakes.

Fact: It’s what you do with these mistakes that determines greatness.

To live a bigger life and realize the business of your dreams, you need to push yourself into areas that are new and uncomfortable. Learning begins at the edge of “uncomfortable” when you stretch your abilities into the unknown. I guess you could say that the truly successful people in this world succeed by getting comfortable with being uncomfortable! Fact: When you advance into new areas of your business, you will make mistakes. Fact: It’s what you do with these mistakes that determines greatness.

Instinctively, you fear and shrink from failure just as a child pulls back from the stove after touching a hot burner. The great news is that this is a “learned” behavior, not a natural one, so it can be “unlearned.” The only two fears we are born with are the fear of falling and the fear of loud noises. If the fear of failure were natural, do you think you would be walking today? No! You

would have stopped the first time you fell as a toddler. The key to reaching your potential and realizing the success that comes with it is by changing the way you view and handle mistakes or failure. What I am about to share with you is how I have learned to look at failure and how it has helped me to realize my own potential.

The first thing you need to do is to cultivate, preserve and protect a positive attitude along with a high level of confidence and self-esteem. One of my favorite quotes is by Winston Churchill: “Success is going from failure to failure with enthusiasm.”

How true! Your positive outlook on life is going to give you the stamina you need to deal with the setbacks you will inevitably face as you grow.

The second thing you need to do is to realize that failure is an EVENT, not a person. No matter what happens, never let failure define who you are. Failing at a task doesn’t change how your family, friends and community see you. There has never been and never will be another you! Got it?

With those two issues out of the way, I am confident that by applying the next three concepts to both your personal and business life, you will be able to maintain your positive attitude and outlook as much as they have helped me to keep mine.

©www.istockphoto.com/Feverpitched

1. Failure is a lesson. After every failed attempt, take the time to stop and “debrief” yourself. Give yourself the gift of growth by honestly answering the following questions: a. What did you do well? b. What could you have done better? c. What’s your plan for the next time?

About Rick White & One Eighty Business Solutions Rick White is a managing member of One Eighty Business Solutions (180BIZ), a Virginia-based coaching and business solutions provider to the automotive and truck repair industries. Rick’s clients consider him a trusted advisor, helping them to increase profits and free time while reducing stress. If you would like more business tips and thoughts just like this, please visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/180biz. 180BIZ provides affordable, down to earth, one-on-one business coaching with no long-term commitments and a money-back guarantee! To see how we can help you and your business, please email us at info@180biz.com or call (540) 833-2014.

48 February 2014 New England Automotive Report

Arriving at these very important answers will allow you to step back and make course corrections, preventing you from repeating the same mistakes. Remember: Wisdom comes from experience, and experience comes from mistakes!

2. Failure is an opportunity.

Building on the first concept, once you have learned your lesson, you now have to focus on the opportunity to USE the knowledge you’ve learned to grow your skillset. This will help you to see failure as Henry Ford did when he said, “Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently.” Can you see how these two concepts can take your results and propel you at breakneck speed towards your goals, while those around you are doomed to repeat their mistakes over and over and over again?

VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE continued from pg. 8

back him in his quest for election.

We are on the fast track right now, with the formal session ending in July.

Once again, it’s looking like we could be called to action out of session, so I ask our members to please be ready and willing to help if needed. I don’t have to tell you that Labor Rate reform is desperately needed in Massachusetts, or that updating our antiquated rates could overwhelmingly

improve industry conditions for us all. So when AASP/MA asks for your support – whether through political calls to action, a show of support at the State House or participation in fundraising activities – please remember that we are doing this for you, and for us. And please consider helping us as we work to change the industry for the better.

MASSACHUSETTS

3. Failure is funny. I have found that after I learn from my mistake, apply the lesson to my next opportunity and succeed, I don’t feel bad about my earlier failure at all. In fact, I am able to be grateful for the lesson and can usually find humor in my story.

I’ve learned over time that there are two kinds of experience: Your own, and the experience of other people. While it’s best to learn from others’ experience, you still have to make your own mistakes to learn and grow. If you are going to fail, fail forward and turn those mistakes into stepping stones leading to your success and greatness!

MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

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2014 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

As a member of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Massachusetts (AASP/MA), I will abide by the association’s bylaws and code of ethics. I understand that membership in AASP of Massachusetts is non-transferable, and I must remain current with my dues in order to be a member in good standing. I understand that if I discontinue my membership that I must immediately cease using any association promotions, logos or materials. Additionally, I understand that as part of my AASP of Massachusetts membership, I will receive New England Automotive Report, the official publication of AASP of Massachusetts, faxes, emails and other mailings.

*** PLEASE TYPE OR PRINT LEGIBLY *** What benefits motivated you to join AASP of Massachusetts?

BUSINESS INFORMATION: Mr.

Mrs.

Ms. ________________________________________________________

Business Representative Name: ______________________________ Business Name ____________________________________________

PERSONAL INFORMATION:

Street Address ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Street

City

State

Zip

Mailing Address ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Street

Phone Number (

City

) ____________________________________ Fax Number (

State

Zip

) ____________________________________________

E-mail Address __________________________________________ Web Site Address ______________________________________________ Enrolled By (Name and Address) __________________________________________________________________________________________ MEMBERSHIP TYPE

Name ____________________________________________________

REPAIRER MEMBER (check one) Collision Repair Shop Mechanical Repair Shop Both, Collision & Mechanical Repair Shops Other Repair Shop

Nickname ________________________________________________ 2014 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DUES (The AASP membership year is from January to January 2015)

Total Due .................................................................................$395.00 SUPPLIER/ASSOCIATE MEMBER (check one) Auto Paint/Crash Parts/Auto Parts/Wholesaler Equipment/Tool Supplier Manufacturer/Sales Agent Services (Computers, Software, Vehicle Rental, Other)

NEW! Political Action Committee (PAC) Donation ...............$______

Check or Cash Credit Card:

Visa

MasterCard

LIST OTHER SPECIALTIES __________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Just like good tools and equipment, membership in AASP of Massachusetts is a valuable investment. AASP of Massachusetts works for you through such outstanding programs as: (1) management and technical training; (2) discount uniform rental; and (3) a wide variety of other business services.

Put AASP of Massachusetts to work for you today.

COMPLETE THE MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION AND RETURN IT WITH PAYMENT TO AASP OF MASSACHUSETTS.

Card Number:

__________________________________________

Expiration Date: __________________________________________ Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: __________________________________________________

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY Check Number ________________________________Check Date__________________________Check Amount________________________________ Date Joined ______________________________Member Number ________________________Next Bill Date ________________________________

10 Liberty Square, 5th Floor • Boston, MA 02109 (617) 574-0741 | (617) 695-0173 (fax) | jzywien@lynchassociates.net As required by the U.S. Tax Code, AASP of Massachusetts, Inc. informs its members that 75% of the dues paid to the association are tax deductible. The remaining 25% is allocated to legislative activities and is not tax deductible.

New England Automotive Report February 2014 55

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IN THE AREA continued from pg. 17 store (slated for a February launch) that will feature a variety of products (tote bags, jackets, polo shirts, etc.) with the association logo. A portion of the proceeds generated by the sale of these items will go back to AASP/MA. As reported in our January issue, each AASP/MA member who uses Promotional Partners’ services will receive a 20-percent discount on goods for their own businesses with their own logo and company name. Logoed products available to shops include everything from pens and calendars to golf balls.

In addition to giving attendees a walkthrough of the AASP/MA membership site, Elkinson expressed his desire to build strong relationships with AASP/MA customers.

“What I’m trying to establish with the organization is really to get what is called a ‘power buying group,'" he said. “The more people who get together to participate and buy through Promotional Partners, the bigger discounts I can offer.”

Elkinson added that he intends to run the site more like an event, where the online store will be open for business for a finite period of time to produce a large batch of orders at one time. More information on Professional Partners is available at www.promotional-partners.com.

Centrally located in Minneapolis, G&K Services offers uniform rental services to AASP/MA members where they will come to a shop on a weekly basis, drop off clean uniforms and towels, pick up the dirty uniforms/towels, make any necessary repairs (fix zippers, etc.) and return the items clean and functional. The company also offers facility products including floor mats, protective covers for vehicles and even restroom supplies like soap and lotions. Jackson expressed G&K’s commitment to providing dependable service to association members.

“Your job is not to manage the uniform program; your job is to manage your shop and your employees,” he said.

“We’re going to ensure that your uniforms look good and your brand is out in front of

your customers the right way. The last thing you need to do as shop owners is have one of your employees walk out to meet one of your customers and not really look the way you want your brand to look.”

Under G&K’s new arrangement with AASP/MA, members will be able to leverage the association’s purchasing power

and enjoy preferred pricing on G&K’s full range of uniform and facility service products. Members are encouraged to contact 1-800-GK-CARES or visit www.gk services.com for more information.

MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

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COVER STORY continued from pg. 35 there will be several repairers and vendors directly involved because of the legwork he did for so many years.

“Mike always believed that when you belong to an association, it’s not for your own benefit – it’s for the benefit of the industry,” reflects Boucher.

N

“He was an asset to all of us,” adds Lamontagne. “He’s a living legend to me.”

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AUT M TIVE AD INDEX

MASSACHUSETTS BUILDING THE SUCCESS OF THE AUTO REPAIR INDUSTRY

180Biz ................................................................49 Artioli Dodge ......................................................20 Audi Group ..........................................................27 Axalta Coating Systems........................................4 Bald Hill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram ..................45 Balise Wholesale Parts Express........................12 Baystate Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge ........................52 Bernardi Group ............................................32-33 Best Chevrolet ..................................................IFC BMW Group ..................................................38-39 BMW/Mini of Warwick ......................................13 Clay Nissan of Norwood ....................................42 Clay Subaru ........................................................11 Colonial Auto Group ..........................................56 Empire Auto Parts ..............................................35 Enterprise............................................................10 Ford Group..........................................................26 Future Cure ........................................................58 Goyette’s Inc. Auto Parts....................................21 Honda Group ......................................................50 Hyundai Group....................................................31 Imperial Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep ..............................9 Imperial Ford ......................................................41 Infiniti of Norwood..............................................22 IRA Group ......................................................14-15 Jaffarian Toyota/Volvo........................................37 Kelly Automotive Group ....................................IBC Linder’s, Inc. ......................................................57 Long Automotive Group ..................................OBC Lundgren Honda ................................................34 Mazda Group ......................................................36 McLaughlin Chevrolet ........................................51 Mopar Group ........................................................9 Nissan Group......................................................53 Nissan World of Dartmouth ..............................35 NORTHEAST™ 2014 ..........................................40 PPG ........................................................................3 R.F. D’Agostino Insurance Agency Inc...............21 Robertsons GMC Truck ......................................42 Sarat Ford-Lincoln ..............................................52 Sentry Group ........................................................6 Subaru Group................................................46-47 Tasca Group........................................................43 Toyota Group ......................................................23 Toyota of Nashua..................................................8 Village Auto Group..............................................25 VW Group ............................................................54 Wellesley Toyota/Scion ......................................45 Woburn Jaguar....................................................51

58 February 2014 New England Automotive Report