2007 AASP/NJ Annual Meeting Brings Industry Together
On October 24, 2007, nearly 100 repairers and supporters of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey (AASP/NJ), as well as representatives from various industries related to automotive repair – came out for the Association’s annual meeting. The event, held once again at the Crown Plaza Hotel of Clark, N.J., featured valuable information for all in attendance as well as a chance to relax and network with industry colleagues over a good meal.
In his opening address, AASP/NJ President Tom Elder provided all attendees a progress report of the industry, marking current and future endeavors of AASP/NJ and other industry organizations while encouraging participation across the board. “Much of our success as an association and an industry is due to the tireless efforts of our many members,” said Elder, “and I urge all members to keep up the good work and continue to be proactive.” Executive Director Charles Bryant affirmed the statement, and reminded members to take advantage of the many benefits offered by AASP/NJ. “Access to our labor pool, equipment exchange, any one of our many member benefits and the ability to get assistance on any problems you may have come built-in with your membership to AASP/NJ,” he explained. “I encourage you to get the most out of your membership; let our association help your business.”
A multitude of speakers were on hand to provide valuable insight during the meeting, including New York’s Greg Coccaro (who is in the midst of a $40 million steering lawsuit against Progressive), representatives from the Auto Body Association of Connecticut (who are currently part of a class action suit against Progressive), Sandy Bass-Cors from the Coaltion for Auto Repair Equality (C.A.R.E.) and Erica Eversman of Vehicle Information Services. Bass-Cors provided attendees with a detailed perspective on the progression and importance of passage of Right to Repair legislation, while Eversman presented numerous current and future legislative initiatives around the industry.
The evening concluded with an election of the 2007-2009 Executive AASP/NJ Board. President Tom Elder and Treasurer Jeff McDowell were appointed to maintain their current positions for another two years. Anthony Trama of Bloomfield Auto Body was appointed to Collision Division Chairman, while Keith Krehel and Tom Hennessey of Krehel Auto Repair and Cokesbury Transmission (respectively) will be co-chairmen of the Mechanical Division. Ron Kromer of Ultimate Collision was also elected as board secretary.
“As usual, there was something for everyone at this year’s annual meeting,” says Elder. “I think everybody had a great night, and more importantly, they learned something at the same time. I want to extend thanks to everyone who helped orchestrate this year’s meeting, as well as all who attended. I hope to see you all next year.”
