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MAY 2007
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Thursday - May 31, 2007

  • Register online today for the 2007 I-CAR International Annual Meeting - Join industry professionals and their families for the 2007 I-CAR International Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida July 26 – 28 at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate.
  • I-CAR Volunteer Committee raises over $12,000 to give back to local schools - The Broward County Florida I-CAR Volunteer Committee raised over $12,000 in support of the I-CAR Education Foundation $100 per Collision Repair Facility per Year campaign at a fundraiser at the Marriott North in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on May 10.
  • Scene Genesis is newest SCRS Corporate Member - The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) has added Scene Genesis, Inc. (Scene Genesis), a provider of a Web-based automated claims solutions for property and auto physical damage, as well as underwriting inspection, as its newest Corporate Member.
  • Art's automotive celebrates 30 years in business - Jamestown, RI: Art Washburn, Jr., together with Jan, his wife of nearly 46 years, has raised three children and operated one of the most successful independently-owned automotive repair and auto body shops in New England. This year they are celebrating their 30th anniversary in business at the same location - 34 Southwest Ave.
  • Auto Repair Shop Owner $62.8 Million Powerball Winner - NM: Felipe Pina of Los Ojos said Wednesday that he plans to settle his business over the next couple of weeks and close his shop.  He said he plans to retire and may build his own garage to spend his days working on classic cars.
  • Pingree Grove's Wester selling his body shop - IL: Wester, 74, who's been in the auto body business since he finished high school in 1952, has owned the building for 22 years, buying it when it "was a garbage dump," he said.
  • Windsor shop joins CSN - Canada: Backed by the management strength of two generations drawn from two families, J & J Dominion Collision Service Ltd. has joined the Collision Solutions Network (CSN). J & J Dominion was established in 1980 by Joe Cozzetto and Joe Paesano, and quickly became a recognized leader and premier repair facility in this area.
  •  NATA presents free Career Day Forum at Automechanika Canada - On Friday, September 28, Automechanika Canada will welcome thousands of young people attending the Motive Power Career Day presented by the National Automotive Trades Association (NATA).
  • GDAS Awards Pecard Trophy and Trip to Third Annual AGTO - The Glass Dealers Association of Saskatchewan Inc. (GDAS) awarded Brendan Pecard of Novus Auto Glass in Regina, Saskatchewan, its first-place prize in an auto glass replacement competition on May 12. As part of his award, Pecard will be competing in the Third Annual Auto Glass Technician Olympics in Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center November 2-3, 2007. In addition, Pecard took home a trophy and leather jacket for his efforts in the competition.
  • Houston Auto Glass Repair Company Apple Glass Adds New Trucks - Houston auto glass repair company Apple Glass announced today the addition of new trucks to their fleet of repair trucks. Apple Glass now has more than two dozen trucks in its fleet making it the largest auto glass repair mobile response team in the city of Houston.
  • AADCO Automotive Q3 Operating Loss Narrows On Improved Revenues - AADCO Automotive Inc., a supplier of used automotive parts, on Wednesday announced that for the third quarter its operating loss narrowed to C$92,000 from C$229,000 in the corresponding period last year.
  • Blackstone to sell part of its stake in TRW Automotive - The Blackstone Group is looking to sell a part of its stake in automotive supplier TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. in a secondary stock offering, a move that comes as the company's shares are up 61 percent this year.
  • Copart, Inc. to Webcast Third Quarter Fiscal 2007 Results - Copart, Inc. announced today that it will release earnings for the third quarter of fiscal 2007 after the close of market on Tuesday, June 5, 2007.
  • Acquisition costs hurt Adesa profit in first quarter - Costs associated with the April 20 acquisition of Adesa Inc. by a group of private equity funds caused first-quarter profit to rise only 3.9 percent, to $38 million, the Carmel-based auto auction reported late yesterday. Had it not been for the $2.4 million expense, earnings would have increased 11.3 percent.
  • Automotive Suppliers Speak Out in Washington at MEMA Legislative Summit - More than 130 top level executives from aftermarket, heavy duty and original equipment suppliers attended the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association’s (MEMA) 4th Annual Legislative Summit in Washington, D.C., May 16-17.
  • Automotive Experts Discuss ‘Surviving in a World of Change’ at GAAS 2007 - Automotive aftermarket leaders heard from peers and industry experts about “Survival in a Changing Aftermarket” at the 2007 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS), held on May 8 and May 9 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare, Chicago, Ill.
  • Auto Parts Become Fuel of the Future in World's First Emission-Free Recycling Machine - Gershow Recycling, one of the world's largest recyclers, is first to purchase and implement HAWK 10, a self-sufficient, environmentally friendly   auto scrap recycler from Global Resource Corporation that reduces waste, cuts emissions, and saves energy by going green.
  • Ford Windsor Casting & Engine Plant Closes - It's the end of the line for one of Ford's most notorious engine plants.
  • Insurance fraud witness gets more time - Albany, NY: County Judge Stephen W. Herrick this morning accused the central witness in a mammoth insurance fraud case of lying on the stand and creating a situation where the jury discredited everything he said.
  • NCOIL Committee Chair Questions NAIC Secrecy - North Dakota State Rep. George Keiser, R-Bismarck, N.D., chairman of the executive committee at the National Council of Insurance Legislators, Troy, N.Y., has written to North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem to request an opinion concerning whether North Dakota Insurance Commissioner Jim Poolman violates the state’s open record law when he participates in closed NAIC executive sessions.
  • Senate Passes Bill To Raise Minimum Auto Liability Insurance - The Louisiana State Senate has approved a bill that would require Louisiana motorists to pay for increased minimum liability auto insurance coverage.
  • Insure U Helps Small Business Owners Understand Insurance Options - Small businesses are a major engine of the U.S. economy. To protect the assets and employees of these vital companies, their owners need to stay abreast of potential business risks and understand insurance options available to address them.

Wednesday - May 30, 2007

  • Senate Banking Committee to Debate National Insurance Act - ASA: Former Insurance Reform Bill Reintroduced with Minor Changes
  • Newest DuPont Water-Based Coatings Mark 30 Years of Reducing Solvents and Greenhouse Gases - The introduction of two new DuPont water-based finishes marks the company's 30th year of developing coatings with reduced environmental impact. DuPont(TM) Cromax® Pro was designed to help collision repair shops meet stricter emissions regulations that take effect in 2009 in California. Similar regulations are expected in Canada. New DuPont(TM) Imron® ZV HG polyurethane enamel is a water-based version of a coating that became known for its "wet look."
  • BASF Coatings and DaimlerChrysler develop eye-catcher with “Liquid Metal” - Liquid Metal, a new paint developed together by DaimlerChrysler and BASF Coatings gleams like – liquid metal. The successful integration of a special-effect pigment into a waterborne paint system is behind the extreme metallic look.
  • Crash scene documentation kits touted as effective giveaway for customers - ABRN: “Most people are pretty shook up when they’re in an accident,” observes Robert Beetley, CEO of Le Mans Body and Paint, based in Santa Monica, Calif. So to help ease the stress on dazed and confused motorists involved in such an incident – while also displaying the shop’s name in front of them – Le Mans has handed out some 400 crash scene documentation kits containing the materials necessary to record all the pertinent information at the scene.
  • NABC praises CARFAX for consumer awareness reporting on airbags - ABRN: The National Auto Body Council (NABC) has announced that it commends the approach taken by CARFAX, a national provider of vehicle information, in its recent program to alert the public to the possibility of unsafe airbag repair procedures.
  • Car Owner Learns an Expensive Lesson - The April 13 hailstorms that swept across the region damaged 30,000 cars. Bryan Lamb's 2-year-old Honda Accord was one of them.
  • Glass Industry Reacts to Roof Crush Resistance Standards Under Review by NHTSA - GlassBYTES: As the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) has decided to delay finalization on revised, stricter roof crush resistance standards until September 2007, several safety proponents in the glass industry took time out to tell AGRR magazine/Glassbytes.com™ what impact, if any, the new guidelines may have on the auto glass industry.
  • eAutoclaims, Inc. Appoints Tim Ellis as Vice President of Sales and Marketing - eAutoclaims, a leading provider of managed collision repair services and insurance claims processing technology applications, announced today that industry veteran Tim Ellis has joined the eAutoclaims' Executive Team as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
  • ADESA and Insurance Auto Auctions Report First Quarter 2007 Results - ADESA, Inc., a leading provider of wholesale vehicle auctions and used vehicle dealer floorplan financing, and Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc., a leading provider of automotive salvage and claims processing services in the United States, today reported their first quarter financial results.
  • Acacia Automotive Board Announces Appointment of New Director - Acacia Automotive, Inc. today announced that it has recently appointed Mr. David Bynum to its Board of Directors. Bynum has enjoyed a successful and illustrious career in the automotive and auction business.
  • Hella Receives OEM Awards In Asia-Pacific, USA - Hella KGaA Hueck & Co., a global tier-one supplier of automotive lighting and electronic equipment, has won three awards from two automotive manufacturers and one tractor manufacturer.
  • Honda chose Indiana for plant, but counts on Ohio for its parts - A supplier with a plant in Darke County is expanding; it is one of 140 Ohio companies that has links to Honda.
  • Ford Denies Volvo Sale Rumors - Denying rumors in the European press, Ford Motor Company announced it had no plans to sell its Volvo unit on Tuesday.
  • Toyota fixing engine failures in new Tundra truck - A glitch in Toyota's Tundra pickup truck has caused 20 engine failures and forced it to track down other trucks at risk for the problem, the Japanese automaker said on Tuesday.
  • RI Agency Begins Certification Program for Auto Salvage Yards - The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is inviting auto salvage yard operators to participate in a voluntary self-certification program that can helping them come into, or stay in, compliance, while improving environmental and health risk factors associated with such facilities.
  • Keeping Your Car Out of the Chop Shop - Allstate Insurance Company teams up with the National Insurance Crime Bureau in one big glorified demonstration that should teach you to at least lock your doors.
  • The New Math of Auto Coverage - A clean record plus a good credit history can equal 25% lower auto rates.
  • Web site compares insurers in state - The Delaware Department of Insurance has launched an interactive Web site that lets consumers compare rates for auto and home insurance from more than 50 companies that write policies in the state.
  • State Farm gets backing to lower auto rates - The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation has approved a request by State Farm to lower auto rates by a statewide average of nearly 16 percent.
  • GMAC Insurance Reduces Rates in South Carolina - The Company that Cares Gives Palmetto State Customers a Much-Needed Break
  • Longtime ally turns on insurers - Katrina experience soured Trent Lott
  • Former Owner of Arizona Towing Company Sues for Defamation - The former owner of an embattled towing company in Mesa, Ariz., is suing an insurance company for defamation and $10 million in damages. -- Lee Watkins is refuting a claim that Cactus Towing was one of several Phoenix-area tow companies that defrauded customers over the years. -- The insurance agency alleges several Phoenix-area tow companies and body shops worked together to defraud people whose vehicles were towed by taking cars to preferred body shops and tacking on excessive and unnecessary fees -- such as $250 in administrative fees for tows and $95 to "re-hook" a car.

Tuesday - May 29, 2007

  • Feds push back roof regulation - In yet another delay involving one of the nation's most pressing vehicle safety issues, federal regulators are going back to the drawing board to craft a regulation to require automakers to increase the strength of roofs to protect passengers in rollovers.
  • I-CAR Adds GM Glass Replacement Video to Its Library - The Inter-Industry Conference On Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) recently announced it will now offer an online course detailing the proper method of stationary glass replacement procedures for the GM line of cars and trucks.
  • Are Repairers Capable of Affecting Change? - AutobodyOnline: A couple of weeks ago Stan Rodman, executive director of the Aftermarket Body Parts Association (ABPA) wrote a lengthy opinion covering what he thought was a solution to some of the problems confronting collision repairers. I didn’t agree with his idea, but that’s okay, at least he was making an effort to find a solution. If everybody put their heads together and tried to resolve the many issues confronting the collision industry maybe some change could actually occur that would have a positive affect on the business.
  • One-Stop Car Insurance Service, Body Work Included - Several insurance companies have decided their old strategy for handling car-damage claims is in need of repair.
  • Toyota Wholesale Parts Web Site 2.0 Launches - Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc. (TMS) today announced the launch of the enhanced Toyota Wholesale Parts Web site, ToyotaPartsAndService.com, which now allows repair shops to order Genuine Toyota Fast Moving Parts online directly from their designated Toyota dealer.
  • ACDelco WISE 3.0 allows shops more flexibility and customization - ACDelco, in its continuing effort to help shop owners become more flexible and efficient, now offers a new version of its Web Integrated Service Environment (WISE) e-Business solution
  • Audatex Launches Online Bodyshop Search Facility - UK: In response to industry request, Audatex has launched a unique bodyshop look-up facility on its website.
  • Body Shop of America, Inc. Selects Shift4 for Payment Processing - Body Shop of America, Inc., a leading specialty retailer of fashion right apparel, and accessories, has signed a contract with Shift4 Corporation, a leading developer of enterprise payment solutions. This agreement enables Body Shop of America, Inc., to process credit card and mail-order/telephone order (MOTO) transactions quickly, accurately and securely using Shift4's $$$ ON THE NET(R) web-based payment gateway.
  • The Ripple Effect - Canada: The collision repair industry has evolved greatly. This can be attributed to the many tiny pebbles tossed into the collision repair industry's pond.
  • Auto Physical Damage Claims: the Procurement Puzzle - Canada: Insurance companies buy millions of dollars each year in goods and services from vendors - auto collision repair centres, lawyers, adjusters and appraisers, for example - and there is an emerging recognition among some carriers that supplier "spend management" can be streamlined.
  • eAutoclaims restates earnings - An accounting change has led to reduced earnings for eAutoclaims for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2006.
  • Upping cars' cool factor - Owners pay to make their automobiles one of a kind
  • Car repair with a bit of a flair - Bobby Likis' name has been synonymous with car repair since 1971, when he began his Likis Car Clinic at 5675 N. Davis Highway.
  • A Bold and Bright Future for Car Colors - After years of low-key silvers, whites and grays dominating the market, vibrant colors and glitzy finishes are on the upswing.
  • Supplier comments distilled to 3 priorities - IBM Corp. and the Original Equipment Suppliers Association have funneled 1,540 online comments made during the Automotive Supplier Jam in March into three auto industry priorities.
  • Former workers sue PPG - Five former employees of PPG Industries Inc. filed a class-action complaint yesterday alleging the company pressured them and other workers to retire or resign because of their age.
  • Police Target Stolen Auto Parts Online - Honolulu police issued a consumer alert on Friday about stolen car parts being sold online. -- Honolulu police said young adults are stealing cars -- mostly Hondas, Mitsubishis and other street racing vehicles -- stripping them and selling the parts on the Internet.
  • New Maryland law lifts veil on 'secret' car warranties - Marylanders who own or lease cars will be notified beginning in October when a manufacturer authorizes free repairs for defects. Maryland will become the fifth state to take the "secret" out of secret warranties. -- Clarence Ditlow, executive director of Center for Auto Safety, says it's difficult to find out about secret warranties, but his group estimates that at any one time there are at least 500 in existence. Over the years, he says, consumers have spent billions of dollars in repairs that should have been picked up by the manufacturer.
  • New Car Dealer's Associations of Toronto & Ontario and CarProof Join Forces to Give Consumers Peace-of-Mind When Buying a Used Vehicle - The Toronto Automobile Dealers Association (TADA) and the Ontario Automobile Dealers Association (OADA) announced today that they have selected CarProof Vehicle History Reports as their official report.
  • Ford eyes sale of Volvo cars, BMW interested - Loss-making Ford Motor Co. is planning to sell Swedish car maker Volvo and German carmaker BMW could be a possible buyer, a Swedish newspaper said on Monday.
  • Police find chop shop; 74-year-old faces 14 charges - Ohio: "Chop shops are a problem for society. We make every effort to locate them,"  Detective Sgt. Anthony Longmire said. "I took over the auto theft division in September and this is my first chop shop — I want more, I want them all."
  • State lacking funding to fight insurance fraud - Every day someone in California gets away with insurance fraud, in part because the funding system for the state's anti-fraud unit hasn't changed substantially in 34 years.
  • Ex-doctor pleads guilty to insurance fraud - A former Hudson County doctor admitted in state court today that he bilked insurance companies out of more than $2 million by billing them for tests he never performed on patients involved in automobile accidents.
  • Cop gets probation in insurance fraud - New Jersey: A Plainfield police detective was sentenced Friday to a year of probation for filing false police reports as part of an insurance fraud scheme involving a Roselle auto body shop.
  • N.J. Auto Insurance Complaints Drop - A recently released tally of auto insurance complaints in New Jersey underscores the improvement consumers have experienced since the state reformed its regulations in 2003, a state official said.
  • Auto insurance requirements are up in the air - Florida: What kind of car insurance will be mandated when the no-fault law expires in October depends on whom you ask.

Friday - May 25, 2007

  • Right to Repair Legislation Goes to House Subcommittee in Oregon - GlassBYTES: The Oregon House Committee on Consumer Protection reviewed a bill yesterday that would require insurance companies to inform customers that they have the right choose an automotive repair facility, including glass shops. The bill, SB 523, which encompasses glass shops, already passed in the Oregon Senate with a vote of 23-4. The bill will now go to the House for a vote, according to Steve Dickson, administrator for the House Consumer Protection committee.
  • Right to Repair Legislation Fades in Another State - ASA Applauds Oklahoma Repairers for Stopping Right to Repair Bill
  • Do Car Manufacturers Drive Up Repair Costs? - Team 5 Investigates Access To Service Codes
  • TIA Involved in D.C. Legislative Summit - TIA will participate in the upcoming Aftermarket Legislative Summit, set for June 12-13 in Washington, D.C. -- Throughout the day, participants will also meet with Senators and Representatives to discuss such issues as counterfeit tires, liability on used motor oil in Superfund sites, Motor Vehicle Owners Right to Repair Act, TREAD Act issues, TPMS and imported tire testing compliance.
  • LORD Corporation enters vendor relationship with Sterling Autobody - LORD Corporation has entered into a new vendor relationship with Sterling Autobody where Sterling Autobody stores will use Fusor products and cycle-time-reducing repair procedures as part of the preferred supplier program. Founded in 1997, Sterling Autobody is one of the largest consolidators in the industry, with more than 60 stores located throughout the United States.
  • Keystone's profits rise in 4Q, year end - Keystone Automotive Industries Inc. saw a 51.1 percent increase in fourth-quarter profits on an 11.3 percent increase in quarterly sales and a group of one-time gains.
  • DuBay Auto Body Shop opens in Kennan - WI: Doug Kuhn recently opened a new business, DuBay Auto Body Shop, in the village of Kennan; however, he has more than 40 years of experience doing auto body repair, painting, and related work.
  • Deep dents need professional care - NC: Henry Bennett, an auto body expert from Central Piedmont Community College, talked with Ken Collins on Thursday and explained how professionals fix deep dents.
  • Defrauder says he’s not that bad - David Connor tells the court at his sentencing for auto-repair crimes that he’s sorry for his customers’ losses; he gets nine months in jail.
  • EAUTOCLAIMS, INC Files SEC form 10-K/A, Annual Report - Overview: We are a business-to-business e-commerce company that uses the Internet to streamline and lower the overall costs of automotive repair paid by insurance companies, managing general agents (MGA) and third party claims administrators (TPA) and self-insured automobile fleet management companies. We are establishing ourselves as the preeminent service provider for the automobile insurance industry, providing a seamless back-end infrastructure that links thousands of collision repair shops and support facilities....
  • Eric Asbery Promoted to President at Equalizer - GlassBYTES: Round Rock, Texas-based Equalizer Inc. has named former company VP Eric Asbery, as president, effective Monday, May 21, 2007. He succeeds his father, Ray, who previously served as president, and who will continue to serve as chief executive officer for Equalizer.
  • Custom Wheel Operations Benefit From Growing Consumer Interest In Vehicle Appearance - According to information from consumer and retail information company, The NPD Group, marketers of vehicle appearance products could see a boost in business this spring. The firm reports 12 percent of consumers surveyed last fall indicated they would spend more money on vehicle appearance this year; only four percent said they would spend less.
  • Chinese Auto-Parts Companies See Open Road at Home, Abroad - Investors looking to place a bet on China's move up the manufacturing ladder, from low-tech, labor-intensive goods to more-sophisticated -- and profitable -- products, should consider the country's burgeoning auto-parts industry.
  • Car parts firm has its foot to the floor - An Armagh firm launching a £2 million export initiative aimed primarily at the USA is to virtually double its workforce, it was revealed yesterday.
  • Acacia Automotive Announces Letter of Intent to Acquire First Auto Auction - Acacia Automotive, Inc. today announced that it has recently executed a Letter of Intent to acquire the Augusta Auto Auction. The terms were not immediately disclosed.
  • Finance Express Purchases Tracker Dealer Management System - Finance Express, which operates the first online auto finance platform specifically designed for the independent automotive used car dealer, announced today that it has bought the Tracker Dealer Management System from Manheim.
  • GM reveals Delphi costs - General Motors Corp. said Thursday it expects to take a $1 billion charge in the second quarter and pay a total of $7 billion to cover retirement costs for workers at Delphi Corp., its former parts division.
  • The Secret Files on Ceberus’ Secrecy - If you thought Cerberus Capital Management relishes its secrecy, you were dead right. The private-equity firm – which is slated to be the new owner of Chrysler Corp. – put up its first Web site just last year. And throughout the years the firm has proved alternatively dismissive and downright agitated about any public attention.
  • Americans still buying bigger models - Analysts say gasoline prices haven't harmed May auto sales, with trucks and SUVs expected to be up.
  • Cars are getting bossy when it comes to high-tech safety - Using radar technology developed for military aircraft, the experimental BMW on a test track senses when it's about to crash and simultaneously flashes a red light on the dash, primes the brakes, pushes back on the gas pedal, closes the windows and sunroof, moves the seat upright, cinches the seat belt and adjusts the air bag deployment. If the driver doesn't hit the brakes fast or hard enough, it will do that, too.
  • Progressive's New Policy Management Application Based on Microsoft Software Helps Empower 28,000 Employees and 30,000 Agencies - New solution, utilizing Microsoft SQL Server 2005, provides the company's agents and employees with streamlined and efficient access to policy data.
  • Farmers Insurance Introduces New Annual Auto Insurance Policy in California - Farmers Insurance Group of Companies, including Farmers Insurance Exchange, and Mid-Century Insurance Company, have good news for their over 2,100,000 insurance policyholders and all new customers in California. -- Beginning June 1, 2007, the companies will offer an annual auto insurance policy that will allow Farmers auto insurance policyholders and new customers to choose a full-year auto policy term option or the six-month policy term option currently offered.

Thursday - May 24, 2007

  • Oregon House Subcommittee Set to Review Right-to-Repair Legislation - GlassBYTES: Today at 1 p.m. Pacific Time the Oregon House Subcommittee for Consumer Protection was scheduled to discuss SB 523 A, a bill that would require insurance companies to inform customers that they have the right to choose an automotive repair facility (including glass shops) before recommending a particular motor vehicle repair shop to make repairs to the insured's vehicle.
  • AASP-MN Bill Signed by Governor Pawlenty! - On May 17th, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty signed into law legislation proposed by the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers, Minnesota (AASP-MN). House File 1949/Senate File 1542 prohibits insurers from adjusting a repair shop estimate when the extent of damage is in dispute unless the insurer conducts a physical inspection of the vehicle. The legislation also prohibits insurers from requiring that shops use a particular vendor for parts procurement. The legislation will become effective on August 1, 2007.
  • AASP-MN Names Scholarship Recipients - The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers, Minnesota (AASP-MN) is pleased to announce that the following students have been selected to receive a $500.00 scholarship award to support their continued studies in the automotive industry:
  • Three Missouri Associations Join Forces to Present 2nd Annual Collision Industry Forum - While this event is hosted in Missouri, it is not a Missouri-only event.  The three Missouri associations extend an invitation to all industry colleagues to attend the informational and educational forum and golf outing.
  • ASA-Texas Named ASA Affiliate of the Year - During the Automotive Service Association's recent Celebration of Excellence awards ceremony in Nashville, Tenn., ASA presented its Affiliate of the Year Award to ASA-Texas for its outstanding accomplishments across a broad range of categories. ASA-Texas was selected for its excellence in membership growth, educational events, participation in ASA national programs, legislative activity and overall contributions of its membership to the automotive service industry.
  • Moppert Earns ASA Phoenix Award - Harry Moppert, AAM, owner of Moppert Brothers Collision Services Group in Morton, Pa, was named recipient of the ASA Collision Division Phoenix Award at ASA's recent Celebration of Excellence May 5 in Nashville, Tenn. The Phoenix Award recognizes an ASA Collision Division member for his or her contribution to the automotive service industry.
  • Wills Receives ASA Alpha Award - Bob Wills, owner of Wills Auto Service in Battle Creek, Mich., received the Alpha Award from the Automotive Service Association (ASA) Mechanical Division May 5 at ASA's Celebration of Excellence in Nashville, Tenn. The Alpha Award recognizes an ASA Mechanical Division member for his or her generous and far-reaching contributions to the automotive service industry.
  • PPG Canada announces change of director at Refinish Canada - PPG Canada Inc. has announced that Lee Smith, director of Refinish Canada, will be moving to Strongsville, Ohio, where he will start in his new position as director of strategic growth and acquisition for PPG Automotive Refinish, North America.
  • PPG donates $5,000 to Cuyahoga Community College Foundation - Funding supports program scholarships for high school students
  • Success for OEM-coatings of BASF Coatings in Russia - BASF-Wostok was honored as a best supplier by AvtoVAZ
  • Sherwin-Williams honored by OSHA for plant safety - The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recognized the Sherwin-Williams Company for achievement in protecting employee safety and health at a ceremony at its manufacturing plant in Andover, Kan.
  • Just Car Clinics says overall profitability 'slightly ahead' of its expectations - UK: In an AGM statement, the collision repair chain said like-for-like turnover and profitability has risen during the period, with its five new locations -- added in the last six months -- making a positive contribution.
  • Part stores hit by Net loss - More than half of Britain's 6,000 car accessory stores have been forced to close as a result of the Internet shopping boom
  • MarkMonitor and The Steele Foundation Join Forces to Fight Counterfeit and Gray-Market Activity - Counterfeiting costs auto parts suppliers $12 billion in sales annuals ($3 billion in the U.S.) on everything from brake pads to wheel covers, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
  • Ford Opens 'Paint Shop of the Future' - Ford Motor Company opened the doors of its “paint shop of the future” today, becoming the first automotive company to paint vehicles using the industry’s newest paint technology – a 3-wet, high solids-based system.
  • Elite Headquarters Closing, Jobs Moving to Ohio - GlassBYTES: Employees at the former headquarters of Elite Auto Glass in Denver have been told that the office there will close its doors by the end of the year. Most administrative functions will be moved to the headquarters of Elite's new owner, Columbus, OH-based Belron US (formerly Safelite).
  • AGRSS Unveils Consumer Awareness Program - GlassBYTES: The Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standards (AGRSS) Council has announced the creation of its Consumer Awareness Program, or CAP for short. This outreach program was designed to bring AGRSS registered shops together with the goal of educating the general public about the importance of the safety elements in proper windshield replacement.
  • Chip Foose on What Makes a Great Car - Chip Foose is an award-winning hot rodder and considered a designer's designer, well known to aftermarket tuners and custom car aficionados as well as viewers of The Learning Channel reality TV program "Overhaulin'," which he hosts.
  • Chevy calls out Camry - GM wants to show both cars in showrooms
  • Ford adds features to freshen up '08 F-150 - At the end of its cycle, pickup will have battery of new high-tech gadgets, options to lure customers.
  • MetLife Named a 2007 Working Mother Best Company for Multicultural Women for Second Consecutive Year - For the second year in a row, MetLife has been recognized by Working Mother magazine as a 2007 Best Company for Multicultural Women. Now in its fifth year, the Working Mother Best Companies for Multicultural Women initiative celebrates employers that are establishing groundbreaking diversity policies and programs to encourage the hiring and advancement of African-American, Hispanic, Asian-American and Native American women.
  • Farmers Insurance Helps Govans Elementary Students Turn School Work into Solutions for Community Improvement - With real-life examples to learn from, fourth and fifth graders from Govans Elementary put their school work to use finding ways to improve their community. -- After a push from Maryland lawmakers to encourage civic studies in the classroom, Farmers Insurance stepped up to the challenge by providing Baltimore City Public Schools with an educational program called The American Promise, a nationally recognized civics study guide for K through 12 school students.
  • State Farm brings Salvation Army closer to goal - The Salvation Army could start building a new homeless shelter this fall if businesses and the community accept a challenge from State Farm Insurance Cos. -- The Bloomington-based insurance giant contributed $150,000 Tuesday toward The Salvation Army’s capital campaign for a new shelter and challenged others to help take the campaign over the top.
  • Some S.C. drivers to get break - There's light at the end of the tunnel for tens of thousands of South Carolina motorists who together are charged an extra $12 million a year for their automobile insurance.
  • Titan Acquires Eastwood Insurance - THI Holdings (Delaware) Inc., a Nationwide company, through one of its agency subsidiaries, has acquired the assets of Anaheim Hills, Calif.-based Eastwood Insurance Services Inc. for $217 million. -- Based in Cleveland, Titan focuses on the specialty auto insurance business and has roughly $280 million in net premiums written.

Wednesday - May 23, 2007

Tuesday - May 22, 2007

  • Know your rights after an auto wreck - Texas: After a car wreck, maneuvering the maze of auto insurance red tape can be challenging for most drivers. It can be difficult even if you're not at fault. -- In a written statement Mercury Insurance says the estimated cost of repairs exceeded the value of the truck. However, after being contacted by KVUE News, Mercury Insurance has agreed to pay for the repairs at the body shop of Wendel's choice.
  • Mitchell's 2007 "Full Speed Ahead!" Automotive Collision Road Show to Commence June 7th - Eight City Seminar Series to Help Educate Collision Repair Shops on How to Best Optimize Business Performance
  • ASA Annual Convention a Hit in Nashville - New Board of Directors Announced at Celebration of Excellence
  • ASA Honors Member Achievements at 'Celebration of Excellence' in Nashville - The Automotive Service Association (ASA) held its third annual "Celebration of Excellence" May 5 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center. The special awards dinner honors the achievements of ASA members and its industry partners.
  • ASA Announces Collision Division Operations Committee - The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has announced its 2007-08 Collision Division Operations Committee. Darrell Amberson, AAM, Lehman's Garage, Bloomington, Minn., continues his term as Collision Division director. As such, Amberson serves on ASA's board of directors and chairs the ASA Collision Division Operations Committee. The position of Collision Division director is a two-year term.
  • ASA Announces Mechanical Division Operations Committee - The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has announced its 2007-08 Mechanical Division Operations Committee. Earl Dohner, AAM, E&E's Garage, Brookville, Ohio, continues his term as Mechanical Division director. As such, Dohner serves on ASA's board of directors and chairs the Mechanical Division Operations Committee. The position of Mechanical Division director is a two-year term.
  • LORD Corporation receives I-CAR award - ABRN: To recognize the company’s ongoing support for the past 12 years, LORD Corporation has received a service award from the Northeast Division of the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR). According to I-CAR Regional Manager Dave Coffey, LORD is instrumental to training the collision repair industry on products and techniques as well as how to comply with OEM Technical Service Bulletins.
  • Stock’s Garage receives SBA award - The U.S. Small Business Administration and the New York Business Development Corporation, along with participating lenders and economic developers, recently recognized a Little Falls business, Stock’s Garage, with the Excellence Award at the Ninth Annual Small Business Excellence Awards Luncheon and Ceremony at the Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Colonie. -- The automobile repair and car care center was started by Roger Stock. It specializes in auto repair, towing and bodywork. -- Stock was introduced as “an outstanding entrepreneur and person,” according to Jeff Badgley, director of Prime of Central New York.
  • Jacka's 25 years in auto body began in high school - Virginia:  Paul Jacka started with a tool box in an addition to his dad’s garage in Pike-Sandy. -- Today he owns and operates 2nd Avenue Collision Center, where a trained and certified staff performs the magic that is auto body work.
  • Vocation Students Get Big Graduation Celebration - Fresno, CA: A big celebration at a Valley auto repair shop as they hold a graduation ceremony for it's newest Auto Technicians. -- The course is offered by State Farm Insurance and Fresno' Calliber Collision Center.
  • Getting What You Bargain For With Your Mechanic - Nevada: Governor Gibbons signed four bills into law Monday, one of which relates directly to a mechanic’s work ethic.
  • PPG Builds Eighth Plant In China - The plant, which will produce auto paint for Chery Automotive, a Chinese automobile manufacturer, is also the first plant that PPG has launched for a Chinese brand automaker. -- PPG’s seven other factories in China provide auto paints to BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, General Motor, Dongfeng Citroen and Hainan Mazda.
  • PPG Chairman Bunch Reviews Strategy Toward Reshaping Company - First Quarter Results Demonstrate Acceleration in Achievement of Vision -- Charles E. Bunch, chairman and CEO of PPG Industries, described the company’s progress toward achieving its vision of continuing to be the leading coatings and specialty products and services company.
  • PPG Expects Decision On Two Units By End-Summer - PPG Industries expects to announce the planned sale or a partnership link-up of its fine chemicals and glass businesses by the end of the summer, CEO Charles Bunch said on Friday.
  • Equalizer Launches New Website - GlassBYTES: Equalizer Industries Inc., recently announced the launch of its updated website, located on the web at, http://www.equalizer.com/07/.
  • Not Your Fathers IGA Conference - It was not your father's IGA Conference. This year's annual Independent's Day Conference and Spring Auto Glass Show, sponsored by the Independent Glass Association (IGA) seemed to mark a new era in education for independents.
  • For much more on the IGA Conference: See GlassBYTES.com
  • Copart Announces Universal Salvage Shareholder Approval of Pending Transaction - Copart, Inc. today announced that at an Extraordinary General Meeting and a related Court Meeting each held on May 21, 2007 the shareholders of Universal Salvage plc ("Universal Salvage") voted to approve the scheme of arrangement to implement a recommended cash offer by Copart UK Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Copart, to acquire the entire issued and to be issued share capital of Universal Salvage. Copart announced its offer to acquire Universal Salvage on April 5, 2007.
  • AskPatty.com, Inc. Poised for Web 2.0 Driven Growth at First Year Anniversary - AskPatty.com, Inc., reaches first anniversary above target revenue, with an established brand presence leveraged by Web 2.0 best practices and venue in Second Life. Women consumers and the automotive industry embrace female friendly certified concept. Leveraging social media achieved a quick and strong brand presence while developing a innovative revenue generating business model.
  • Visteon shares jump on acquisition talk - The stock price of auto parks maker Visteon jumped Monday on a report that Tata AutoComp and France's Valeo may each buy stakes in the company.
  • If walkout continues, Toledo Molding and Die would be shut down - Following is a statement by Toledo Molding and Die, Inc. concerning a work stoppage at the company's Phillips Avenue, Toledo, plant. The plant assembles interior components for the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Unlimited and delivers the assemblies to the Jeep Toledo South Assembly Plant on a just-in-time basis.
  • Young Americans Resist Buying Pre-Configured Cars From The Lot - New Generation of buyers want new cars "Their Way" like this tricked out Scion
  • Wanted: Executive talent - Besides cash, private-equity firms stockpile managers to help acquire companies, run them. -- For their part, veteran executives have flocked to the private-equity firms, which offer a way to escape the intense scrutiny of regulators and investors that executives deal with at publicly traded companies. For some, it's also a second chance after losing out on a CEO succession battle.
  • Boag named supply chief for Chrysler - Peter Rosenfeld, Chrysler Group's head of procurement and supply, will leave the Auburn Hills-based automaker after 25 years, the company said Monday.
  • Car dealers feel upbeat about sale - They say the future looks solid for Chrysler, especially since new owner has `deep pockets'
  • Chrysler sale may slow China deal - Soon-to-be-single Chrysler is counting on international partnerships to develop a global presence, but the Auburn Hills automaker may be encountering difficulties with its first deal.
  • Toyota recalls nearly 20,000 Yaris - • Toyota says 19,075 Yaris superminis are affected • Recall covers head restraints and airbags • Owners offered free repairs by Toyota
  • Safety first at Volvo - Since company was founded in 1927, keeping passengers secure has been its guiding principle. The Swedish automaker has contributed many world firsts to automotive design, including the three-point seat belt.
  • Replacing car keys is no longer quick or cheap - In many cases, only a dealer can help you out
  • Tow truck law may be overhauled in Jackson - NJ: The local ordinance detailing what towing companies can charge for removing cars from township roads is flawed and opens the door for consumers to get ripped off, local towing firms say.
  • Jury awards Orange man $32.5M in '96 collision - Florida: After a third trial in a long-disputed case, an Orange Circuit Court jury ruled that a restraint-system defect caused the head injury to Mark Force, now 38. It also ruled that Ford Motor Co. and Mazda Motor Corp. -- which designed the seat-belt system for part-owner Ford -- were negligent for failing to warn consumers about the seat-belt defect in the 1993 Ford Escort driven by Force.
  • Broward Woman Convicted Of Staging Auto Accidents - Chestertown, NY - State Farm Insurance, Allstate Insurance and GEICO Insurance were targeted by the scam.
  • N.C. Senator proposing big changes for auto insurance - A North Carolina senator is proposing some big changes to the way auto insurance rates are calculated. He wants to take away the state insurance commissioner's ability to control insurance rates.

Monday - May 21, 2007

  • Auto insurer's repair program crashes straight into criticism - In California, where more than 2 million repair jobs are done annually, it is illegal for an insurer to direct or recommend that a vehicle be repaired at a particular shop unless a customer requests a referral. -- Auto repairs in the state amount to about $4 billion to $5 billion a year, according to the California Autobody Association. -- One auto repair trade group, the Collision Repair Association of California, has filed a court action that challenges the legal status of the Concierge service center in San Diego, the only site in California where the program is currently offered.
  • Towing firms, body shops sued over excessive fees - Arizona: Several East Valley towing companies and body shops schemed to swindle customers by sending their cars against their wishes to other businesses and charging unnecessary and excessive fees, according to a lawsuit filed by a national insurance firm.
  • Right to Repair Legislation Goes to House Subcommittee in OR - GlassBYTES: The Oregon Senate recently voted 23-4 to pass SB 523, a watered-down bill that requires insurance companies to inform customers they have the right to choose an automotive repair facility.
  • Great Plains Auto Body getting settled in new C.B. location - Iowa: Great Plains Auto Body at 1328 35th Ave. opened in Council Bluffs on Jan. 15 after owners Bruce and Joyce Hansen surveyed the area and determined there was a need for a modern body shop.
  • Class Repairs And Paints Police SUV - WV: Ten senior members of the collision repair class took part in the repair and painting project using the basic McMechen cruiser paint design as a pattern.
  • Looking for a good auto technician? - Try a Maui high school. -- Four teams from three Maui schools swept the top places in the 2007 Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills State Competition, the state championship for auto technology students.
  • Keystone Auto Leases 67,500 SF in Stockton - Keystone Automotive Industries Inc. leased 67,500 square feet at 1627 Army Court in Stockton, CA. The automotive parts wholesaler is vacating 48,400 square feet at 632 S. El Dorado St. in Stockton.
  • Officials break ground on new Stockton auto-parts plant - Dozens of business executives and government officials gathered at the end of a dusty driveway off Farmington Road on Thursday to formally break ground for a new $73 million auto-parts plant for Kyoho Machine Works Ltd. of Japan.
  • Aftersoft Group Reported Fiscal Third Quarter Financial Results - Aftersoft Group, Inc. ("Aftersoft"), a leading supplier of software and services to the automotive aftermarket in the US, UK and Canada, announced the following financial results for its fiscal third quarter and nine months ended March 31, 2007 on May 15.
  • Ex-execs return to Adesa - Ousted 2 years ago, ‘car guy’ takes over
  • Visteon Names Michael J. Widgren Vice President, Corporate Controller and Chief Accounting Officer - Global automotive supplier Visteon Corporation has named Michael J. Widgren as vice president, corporate controller and chief accounting officer effective May 16.
  • Valeo, Tata Group in talks for stake in Visteon - French auto parts maker Valeo and India's Tata Group are said to be in early talks to acquire a stake in New York-listed Visteon Corp, the Business Standard reported, citing sources close to the deal.
  • Continental Automotive Systems starts activities in India - Keeping pace with the fast growing automotive market of India, Continental Automotive Systems, a division of the International Automotive Supplier Continental AG has implemented two major strategic steps by announcing it’s liaison office and a technical center.
  • American-made isn't crystal clear like it used to be - In world economy, parts and people come from all over
  • Ford sales still fall short of goals - Automaker's report shows staff morale up, though many doubt turnaround plan
  • Getting up to speed - Report: GM's new models may cut market share loss; Ford lags
  • GM Promises "Star Treatment," Dumps Old OnStar Subscribers - Existing Customers Abandoned as GM Rolls Out New Ads
  • Southeast U.S. automotive research initiative unveiled - Seven of the Southeast’s most prominent universities, along with the National Transportation Research Center, Inc. (NTRCI), the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), on May 17 launched the Automotive Research Alliance (ARA). The ARA will provide a broad range of research resources to automotive manufacturers and suppliers, including technology and manufacturing solutions as well as academic and training programs.
  • Mississippi is on the automotive global map - Mississippi is making a name for itself across the country and around the world as a hub for automotive and high-tech manufacturing, said the state's top economic developer Friday.
  • GM to invest $400 million in Ohio plants - General Motors Corp. announced two major investments Friday in a pair of northwest Ohio plants that will maintain hundreds of jobs.
  • Ford cleanup moving ahead - Ford Motor Co. has completed excavation of industrial waste at nine of 12 sites where paint sludge was found at the 900-acre former iron mining site in Ringwood. That brings the total amount of lead-tainted sludge and contaminated soil removed since 2004 to 25,000 tons, Ford spokesman Jon Holt said.
  • Mass. might ease auto-rate controls - Insurance chief indicates that she may allow some kind of competitive system
  • State Farm's claims at $12M after twister - Home and auto claims paid by State Farm, the largest insurer in Kansas, already have doubled the estimated $6 million that will be paid by the state's second-largest insurer, Madison-Wis.-based American Family Insurance Co.
  • State Farm battles the gecko - State Farm is just trying to keep up with the Joneses, or in this case, the Geicos.
  • Auto Insurance Not Required After PIP Drop - After Oct. 1, Florida drivers will no longer be required to carry auto insurance.
  • Chance slim for bill to fight insurance fraud - NY: In an effort to clamp down on automobile-insurance fraud, the state Senate is expected this week to pass a bill to increase penalties for people who help to stage fake accidents.

Friday - May 18, 2007

  • CT Attorney General Pledges to Get Anti-Steering Law Passed - Addressing the Auto Body Association of Connecticut at its annual meeting, Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal pledged to get S.B. 739 passed, which would strengthen Connecticut's anti-steering law.
  • Lawmakers loosen car damage standard - MO: Sen. John Griesheimer, a former car salesman, said the current thresholds are causing problems. If an insurance company finds that a damaged car doesn’t go over the current threshold but a repair shop finds some additional damage, the insurance company might pay for the repairs and again for a totaled car. -- "We’ve created a heck of a mess for both the insurance companies and the auto body" shops, said Griesheimer, R-Washington.
  • Target Ten Special Report: Body Shop Battles - PA: You're in an accident. You call your insurance company and you take your car to your favorite body shop to get it fixed. Sounds like a plan. It's not that simple for some insured motorists.
  • PPG Launches New Dissolvable Abrasive for Paint Line Maintenance - Total Service Solutions, a product management group of PPG Industries, has introduced an innovative dissolvable abrasive called Clean Logic DA1 as part of its offering of Clean Logic paint line maintenance products and services.
  • Marked for Life - How the Automotive Industry Uses Direct Part Marking
  • Mopar(R) Performance Parts Chooses Rob Lelakowski of Buckeye, Ariz. as 'Top Eliminator' Award Winner - Mopar developed the new year-long program to recognize the most passionate and skilled Mopar enthusiasts and their restored or modified cars. -- The eight winners chosen and their vehicles will attend this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas on Oct. 30 - Nov. 2, 2007.
  • One-third of N. American auto suppliers distressed - About one-third of auto parts suppliers in North America are in financial distress, according to a study released on Thursday by industry consultants BBK. -- The study also found that about 22 percent of the largest auto parts suppliers could fall into significant financial distress in the next year, making it critical that automakers and top suppliers keep close tabs on their suppliers.
  • China Automotive Systems Signed Supply Agreement with Volkswagen Joint Venture in China - China Automotive Systems, Inc., a leading power steering components and systems supplier in China, today announced its subsidiary, Jingzhou Henglong Automotive Parts Co., has entered into an agreement with FAW Volkswagen to supply its high quality power steering systems.
  • Driving into GM's future - Concept cars show product plan is on right track
  • GM CEO reacts to sale of rival Chrysler - General Motors Corp. has paid close attention to the sale of rival Chrysler to a private equity firm, but doesn’t expect other auto companies to travel a similar path, GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner said Thursday.
  • Cerberus vows patience - Snow sees long-term value, backs Chrysler's redo plan
  • Rethinking the Car Company - Private-equity firm Cerberus is expected to transform Chrysler into an automobile manufacturer like no other. What the future may hold.
  • China's cars to reach U.S. gradually - Don't expect to see an influx of Chinese automobiles in the United States any time soon, China's deputy minister of commerce said Wednesday during a visit to Detroit. -- Ma Xiuhong said China's domestic automakers are busy feeding demand from Chinese consumers and do not have the dealer relationships necessary to expand on a large scale to the United States.
  • Auto theft prevention tips and statistics - A car is stolen in Texas every five minutes.
  • Local dealer, buyers vexed by cloned cars - VT: When Jay Tedesco and Brian Goodridge bought used trucks from a Brattleboro dealer earlier this year, they became the proud new owners of a pair of stolen vehicles. -- Tedesco and Goodridge were just the latest victims of a scheme called "car cloning" -- in which criminals replace a stolen automobile's vehicle identification number with a legitimate VIN from a similar vehicle.
  • Fight fraud: Avoid staged accidents - Someone is taking money from you. -- Criminals who commit insurance fraud cost each American household about $200 more annually in insurance premiums.
  • Insurance Companies Not Reaping Full Benefits of Fraud Tech, Celent Report Says - Many insurance companies aren't taking full advantage of technology when it comes to fighting fraud, suggests a recently released report from Boston-based research and advisory firm Celent.
  • The Topic: Auto Crashes - The cost and crashworthiness of vehicles as well as drivers’ safety habits affect the cost of auto insurance.
  • Bill to punish auto-insurance evaders moves ahead - A legislative bill aimed at deterring out-of-state residents from wrongfully obtaining auto insurance in North Carolina has gained some traction in the General Assembly.
  • USAA lowering auto premiums - USAA Property and Casualty Insurance Group said Wednesday it is lowering premiums for its Birmingham-area auto customers by an average 20 percent.

Thursday - May 17, 2007

Wednesday - May 16, 2007