Press Releases

2008

2007 & Prior

Wano wants to make this year’s nominations every bit as memorable as 2007 and is issuing a challenge. “Please take the time to think about the good things that happen around you,” he says, “and help us recognize those who are truly deserving. After all, NABC makes it easy to participate. A downloadable version of the nomination form is available on the Council’s website, www.autobodycouncil.org, and there is also a version that can be completed and submitted online.”

 

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.

 

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.

###

 

               

                 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For More Information contact:

Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director

Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org

 

Esurance Commits to NABC’s Recycled Rides

Insurer Commits to Supply 10 Vehicles for Nationwide Vehicle Donation Project

Richmond, VA, February 26, 2008 — Recycled Rides™—a nationwide, simultaneous vehicle donation program—is proud to report that Esurance auto insurance has agreed to donate 10 vehicles to kick start this year’s project.

 

“We are proud to count Esurance auto insurance among the participants donating vehicles to this great cause,” stated Bill Mayer from Insurance Auto Auctions and Recycled Rides’ vehicle procurement coordinator. “This commitment brings us closer to this year’s goal of 100 vehicle donations.”

 

“Esurance is committed to giving back to our local communities and our work with the Recycled Rides program is no exception,” stated Wayne Sharrah, Esurance’s chief claims officer. “In addition to helping people in need, this is a great way to get the most out of vehicles that still have some life in them. As an environmentally conscious company, Esurance is also committed to keeping things out of the waste stream, so the fact that Recycled Rides benefits both deserving families and our environment is extremely appealing.”

 

Recycled Rides is a community-awareness project whereby members of the National Auto Body Council (NABC) repair and donate recycled vehicles to families in need. Insurers, parts vendors, paint manufacturers, and repair facilities donate vehicles, parts, paint, materials, labor, and dollars to meet this goal.

 

“This project is a win/win for all parties,” stated Recycled Rides co-chair Michael Quinn of 911 Collision Centers, “as the segments of the industry unite to help those in need. We are grateful to Esurance for stepping up and helping out in a big way—it’s the type of effort we need to see coming from the industry at large.”

 

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for more information on Recycled Rides. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.

 

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.

###

 

               

                 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For More Information contact:

Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director

Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org

 

Recycled Rides Vehicle Donation Program Gears Up for 2008

Breakthrough 2007 effort paves the way for future success.

 

Richmond, VA, February 11, 2008 — The National Auto Body Council’s (NABC) Recycled Rides—a simultaneous vehicle donation program to improve the image of the industry—is gearing up for its second year with the goal of donating 100 vehicles to working poor families. All segments of the industry assist collision repair shops in this unique program, which has a target donation date of Monday, November 24, 2008.

To help it succeed, Recycled Rides has increased its volunteer board and garnered administrative support. “We’re definitely moving forward to grow the program and are quite excited about it,” states Program Chair Michael Quinn of 911 Collision Centers. “Shops from all over the country have expressed interest in participating this year. They recognize this is a great way of giving back to the local communities that support them.”

Recycled Rides drives media awareness, thus helping NABC achieve its mission of enhancing the image of the collision industry, while each individual market receives a share of local attention. Also of significance is the fact that the project pulls all industry segments together to work toward a common goal, an unprecedented move in a challenging business environment.

“It is great to see everyone working in concert to help their communities by doing what we do best—repairing collision damaged vehicles,” says NABC Treasurer and Project Co-Chair, Karen Fierst. “Over time collision repairers come into contact with hundreds of vehicles that end up going to the crusher, cars that could have provided valuable transportation to families in need. Now we can put these cars back safely on the road and into the hands of those who can really use them.”

While the 2008 Recycled Rides campaign officially kicks off in April, the project committee is already assembling the infrastructure necessary to support 100 shops reconstructing 100 donated vehicles. Along with Co-Chairs Quinn and Fierst, committee members include Troy Holm of Collision Services, Bill Mayer of Insurance Auto Auctions, Liz Stein of FIX Auto California, and Bruce Cooley of DuPont Performance Coatings.

“We knew this was a great idea when we were asked to participate and it really helped pull our staff together,” states Stein, whose facility participated in 2007. “Everyone was great, including our technicians, our paint vendor and State Farm. Best of all, we helped one very deserving family.”  

Recycled Rides’ long-term goal is 500 simultaneous vehicle donations, which Quinn believes can be achieved within two years. “This is what we do and where we live, so to speak,” he says. “I can’t think of a better way to welcome in the holidays and make a positive impact on those who need it most.”

Any collision shop, insurer, vendor, parts provider, or other company interested in participating in the 2008 Recycled Rides initiative is encouraged to contact NABC’s administrative office as soon as possible at 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or e-mail info@autobodycouncil.org.

About Recycled Rides: The Recycled Rides concept was adopted by the NABC based upon Akzo Nobel's Benevolence Program, a similar vehicle donation program available to that company's customers. The Akzo Nobel Benevolence Program has been donating vehicles to families and organizations in need since 1999. Additional development support came from Roger Cada of State Farm and his wife, Susan, who are active in a similar, faith-based program. Roger was recognized with an NABC Pride Award in part for his involvement in the charity.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.

###


 

               

                 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For More Information contact:

Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director

Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org

 

NABC Gets Down to Business at Annual Planning Meeting

Leadership group tackles full agenda as it looks forward to meeting its goals for the new year.

 

Richmond, VA February 8, 2008 — The new year has arrived and the National Auto Body Council (NABC) board, recently elected at NACE 2007, has hit the ground running with an ambitious agenda to improve the image of the industry, one consumer at a time. The organization’s strategic plan and portfolio of projects was discussed and assembled at its annual planning meeting, which took place on Tuesday, January 15 at the Hilton Palm Springs in Palm Springs, California.

 

The planning meeting is an all-day affair anchored around reports and presentations from all NABC committees: PR/Marketing, Industry Relations, Finance/Membership and Governance. Objectives, gap plan action steps, priorities and resource requirements were among the subjects included in discussion.

 

Several key initiatives were reviewed. With a solid foundation in place from 2007, the Recycled Rides program—through which industry members refurbish vehicles for donation to families in need—will be built upon in 2008. The program’s co-chairs, Mike Quinn of 911 Collision Centers and Karen Fierst of KerenOr Consultants, hope to gain industry support for the donation of 100 vehicles during the 2008 holiday season. A Web site dedicated to Recycled Rides is under development.

 

Robyn Frankel of Frankel Public Relations was brought on as NABC’s media specialist last year, and is working with NABC to implement the organization’s first formal public relations effort, which will reach out directly to the consumer using a mixture of media-based approaches.

 

The board also discussed additional ways to work with the Collision Industry Foundation, continued support for industry educational systems and the prospects of a new membership program. In addition, NABC is considering a Web-based membership portal. The PRIDE Awards, an NABC cornerstone, will continue, entering its fourteenth year.

 

“The annual meeting was notable for its strong thread of continuity mixed with an infusion of fresh perspectives and exciting new ideas,” notes NABC Executive Director Chuck Sulkala. “Attendees are anxious to start creating momentum for current and future programs. We’re looking forward to having a productive year as we endeavor to serve the industry and increase its visibility in the public eye.”

 

The NABC executive committee, which is voted upon by the NABC board of directors, will remain the same as last year. This year’s executive officers, who serve a one-year term but can be re-elected, include:

 

President: Russell Thrall III
CollisionWeek / I-CAR Education Foundation

 

Vice President: George Avery
State Farm Insurance Company

 

Secretary: Janet Chaney
Cave Creek Business Development

 

Treasurer: Karen Fierst
KerenOr Consultants

 

Director-at-Large: Bob Keith
CARSTAR, Inc.

 

Chairman of the Board: Guy Bargnes
BASF Corporation

 

Two new board members—a position with a three-year term—were elected at the Palm Springs meeting. They are John Bosin of Akzo Nobel Coatings and Ron Reichen of Precision Body & Paint. A third, Brandon Devis of Sherwin Williams Automotive Finishes, was appointed to fill a vacant position.

 

David Merrell of CSi Complete, whose term had expired, was re-elected along with Janet Chaney of Cave Creek Business Development. Last year also saw the appointment of John Lypen of MOTOR Information Systems to replace Randy Profeta, who stepped down because of a job change. Board members whose terms expired this year include Tim Dawe of DuPont Performance Coatings, Jeanne Silver of CARSTAR Mundelein, Tom Moreland of Akzo Nobel Coatings, and Mike Noirot of Carfax.

 

“I would like to thank our outgoing board members for their service both to the NABC and the cause of improving the image of the collision industry,” comments NABC Board President, Russell Thrall III. “We also want to take this opportunity to welcome our new board members and look forward to benefiting from their active participation, ideas and expertise.”

 

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.

###

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information contact:
Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director
Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org

 

NABC Invited Back to Speak at Arizona State University


Richmond, VA, December 12, 2007 — Last spring representatives from the National Auto Body Council (NABC) were invited to make presentations as part of the curriculum for Arizona State University’s Certificate for Automotive Entrepreneurs and Leaders program (CAEL). The engagement was so successful, that the speakers, Bob Schubert of Impact Auto Body in Mesa, Arizona and Mike Quinn, of 911 Collision Centers in Tucson, Arizona and Las Vegas, Nevada, have been asked to participate in a special offering of the CAEL program, the Leadership Education for Automotive Dealerships program (LEAD). NABC Secretary Janet Chaney will also participate.

The CAEL program is an accredited program offered by the W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State, one of the largest business schools in the United States. CAEL provides Arizona State students with the opportunity to apply business acumen to the automotive industry and build leadership skills to help instigate changes in dealership management. LEAD provides a conduit through which those at other universities can enroll in CAEL. A prerequisite for any student in the program is a business degree or enrollment in a business major.

CAEL was initiated in part by Ford Motor Company’s Dealer Development Office, which wanted to develop a program at a leading university that focused on the automotive industry. Retired Ford executive, John Whelan, is an Arizona State faculty associate for the CAEL program. In addition to teaching, he works with the school to develop relevant curriculum for CAEL and LEAD.

From Whelan’s perspective, NABC’s participation is a key to the success of CAEL and LEAD. “The collision repair element of a dealership operation is not only growing in importance as a profit center, it is getting increasingly sophisticated to manage,” he says. “We knew that if we wanted to provide a well-rounded course of study, body shop management needed to be a significant part of the mix.”

Whelan began to research the collision repair industry and, after reading an article about the NABC, discovered that Chaney lived nearby. He contacted her to discuss the matter, and asked Chaney if she would speak to Arizona State students.

“John was looking for a two-hour presentation showing a broad overview of the collision industry,” says Chaney. “His phone call was a wonderful surprise. It opened up a great opportunity for NABC—to speak at a prestigious school to high level students with a desire to come into our industry. That’s a vital piece of our future.”

Because of scheduling conflicts, Chaney was unable to participate in the spring class, so Schubert and Quinn stepped into to assist. The rest is history: their participation was well-received and NABC is back again this year. The NABC presentation remains the first and only collision repair presentation ever used at the school.

“Part of the uniqueness of CAEL is that we bring together guest speakers, who are experts in their respective fields, that can offer first-hand insights about automotive customer service,” says Gail Christian, assistant director of the W. P. Carey School of Business. “NABC fits this profile perfectly and we are more than pleased that representatives from their organization are back to contribute this year.”

LEAD consists of one intensive seven-day session in two consecutive winter terms at Arizona State with a summer internship arranged during the summer between the two winter sessions. Some of the required work is completed by students through remote communication. This term’s session is taking place January 3–9, 2008, with NABC’s section, “Auto Body Overview and Profitability Opportunities,” taking place on January 7.

The opportunity to be part of LEAD falls directly in line with the goals of NABC. “Speaking to students and being recognized as an authority in the collision industry helps broaden NABC’s scope,” states SCRS Executive Director Chuck Sulkala. “More importantly, it addresses a core component of our mission: attracting and encouraging highly qualified professionals to enter our industry. It is an honor to be part of this prestigious program, and we look forward to having a long and fruitful relationship with Arizona State University.”

More information about the CAEL and LEAD programs may be found at the following Web sites: www.dd.ford.com and wpcarey.asu.edu/cael.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.
NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.

###
  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information contact:
Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director
Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org e-mail:


 Recycled Rides Vehicle Donation Program Reinforces the Positive Image of the Collision Industry

Combined efforts of all industry segments pave the way for future success.

Richmond, VA, November 29, 2007 — The National Auto Body Council (NABC) is pleased to announce that on Monday, November 19, 2007, simultaneous donations were made in communities across the country, successfully piloting the NABC’s Recycled Rides™ program. The vehicles were presented to each recipient family wrapped in a big green bow.

Recycled Rides is a nationwide awareness project whereby members of the National Auto Body Council (NABC) repair and donate recycled vehicles to families in need. In addition to collision repairers, the program attracted a variety of industry participants united in the mission of refurbishing vehicles to be given to families in need in their local communities. Local charitable organizations were utilized to identify recipient candidates and organize the event.

“At its heart Recycled Rides is a community relations program intended to build good will at the local level, while improving and promoting the image of the collision industry on a national level,” says Michael Quinn of 911 Collision Centers, who chaired the NABC’s pilot program. “Many repairers, throughout their careers, have seen hundreds of vehicles go to the crusher that could have functioned as solid, reliable transportation. This year we started to do something to reverse that trend.”

Typical of the cooperation fostered by Recycled Rides is the experience related by Craig Camacho, marketing director for Keenan Auto Body, Inc. in Clifton Heights, Pennsylvania. “Our participation in the 2007 Recycled Rides campaign was a complete success,” he says. “We donated our vehicle to the largest food bank charity in the Tri-state area, Philabundance. We chose that charity because we saw it as a way of giving to a broader section of the deserving community. We received tremendous support from our vendors. Our hand-off event attendee list included a representative from our local government, members of Philabundance, a major local news channel, sponsor personnel, and Keenan employees.”

One of the most fulfilling aspects of participation for collision repairers was the fact that they were giving right from themselves, out of their profession. “The people in our shop got true meaning out of the fact that they were helping others through the application of their skills and expertise,” explains Greg Petersen of Northwest CARSTAR in Omaha, Nebraska. “It brought a whole new dimension to the act of donating that a simple financial contribution could never match.”

The ultimate goal of Recycled Rides is 500 simultaneous vehicle donations, something Quinn believes can happen within two years. “This is what we do and where we live, so to speak, so I have no doubt we can make this ambitious goal a reality,” he says. “I can’t think of a better, more positive way to welcome the holidays. It’s something we want to keep up for as long as we can.”

NABC Treasurer Karen Fierst, who oversees NABC’s Recycled Rides subcommittee, couldn’t agree more. “It has been very rewarding working with such dedicated shops,” she notes. “From the procurement of the vehicle to identifying a local charity, to gaining vendor support and energizing shop staff, Recycled Rides was a meaningful experience for everyone involved. Next year’s should be even better.”

In addition to 911 Collision Centers, (Tucson and Las Vegas), Keenan Auto Body, Inc. and Northwest CARSTAR, the other charter participants in Recycled Rides were FIX Auto Headquarters (Southern California), Moppert Brothers Autobody (Philadelphia, PA) and Precision Paint & Body (Beaverton, OR).

Those seeking more information about NABC’s Recycled Rides or having an interest in signing up for next year’s program should contact NABC’s administrative office at the number listed below or e-mail info@autobodycouncil.org.

About Recycled Rides: The Recycled Rides concept was adopted by the NABC based upon Akzo Nobel's Benevolence Program, a similar vehicle donation program available to that company's customers. The Akzo Nobel Benevolence Program has been donating vehicles to families and organizations in need since 1999. Additional development support came from Roger Cada of State Farm and his wife, Susan, who are active in a similar, faith-based program. Roger was recognized with an NABC Pride Award in part for his involvement in the charity.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.
###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information contact:
Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director
Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org e-mail:


 NABC Announces 2007 PRIDE Award Recipients

“Generosity is giving more than you can, and pride is taking less than you need.”
— Jules Renard

Richmond, VA, November 16, 2007 — The National Auto Body Council (NABC) is pleased to announce that its 2007 PRIDE Awards—which recognize industry individuals that perform exceptional humanitarian and benevolent acts—have been bestowed upon four deserving people representing the heart of the collision industry. The awards were presented on Tuesday, October 30 at the Industry Achievement Awards Luncheon held in conjunction with the Collision Industry Conference at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. PRIDE Chairman Gary Wano presented the awards.

Barbara Cellini from Broadway Auto Rebuilders in South Chicago Heights, Illinois, was the first recipient introduced. After Barbara’s husband Tom was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease, a debilitating brain disorder that has no cure, she studied the disease and its implications and in 2005 started the Thomas Cellini Huntington’s Foundation. Barbara, now a licensed classical homeopath, functions as the executive director of the Foundation which is a leader in Huntington’s research and gathers financial resources for families whose lives have been disrupted by it.

Broadway Auto Rebuilders, a family-operated organization owned by Tom and Barbara and now run by their son Tiger, gave up 2,500 square feet of production space to house the Foundation. Under Barbara’s loving guidance, the Thomas Cellini Huntington’s Foundation has purchased medicine, food, clothing, and automobiles for those affected, in addition to helping keep families together through their time of crisis. To learn more about the Foundation, please visit www.ourtchfoundation.org.

Kevin DeWayne Jackson was the next PRIDE winner brought to the podium. Kevin is the parts manager for Collision Solutions in Indianapolis, Indiana where he has worked for 22 years. He was nominated by his employer, Aaron Clark.

Without regard to age, race, creed or color, Kevin and his wife have filled a pressing need and brought over 65 foster children into their home. Three of these foster children have been adopted into their family, wonderful additions to a household which includes three children born into the Jackson household.

Understanding the need for loving, quality child care, Kevin and his wife operate a child care business with over 50 children enrolled. In addition to his full time position at Collision Solutions, Kevin is a deacon, trustee, Sunday school teacher, arm bearer and school bus driver for Mount Bethel Apostolic Church in Indianapolis. Kevin and his wife of 21 years, Regina, have made an immeasurable difference in many children’s lives.

Patricia McConnell, president of Old Dominion CARSTAR in Eugene and Springfield, Oregon, is PRIDE Award winner number three. Patricia, a lifelong resident of the Eugene area, has been involved with many charitable efforts throughout the years, and currently serves on the board of directors for the Relief Nursery, a non-profit organization that serves children in Lane County who are either the victims of abuse or at risk of being abused. The Relief Nursery offers training and education that improves parenting skills, and helps parents gain employment and overcome alcohol and drug abuse. This business model of hope is starting to be replicated in other regions throughout the United States.

Last spring, Patty donated a van to the Relief Nursery for use by staff members for emergency pickup of children at risk. She worked through other local automotive service companies to see that maintenance would be provided for the van. Each holiday season, Patty and Old Dominion CARSTAR sponsor a Relief Nursery family. They not only provide a complete Christmas experience for the family, but throughout the year send them gift cards for birthdays, special holidays, back to school needs, summer vacation needs (this particular family went fishing!) and whatever other requirements may surface. She also chairs the Chamber of Commerce’s Women Business Leaders and serves in a volunteer capacity as planning commissioner for the city of Coburg, Oregon.

John (Whitey) Westlund from Lehman’s Garage in the Twin Cities of Minnesota, completes the PRIDE roster for 2007. Whitey was nominated by Darrell Amberson of Lehman’s Garage, a nomination that was unique in that it was 30 pages long! In addition to devoting over 60 years to the auto industry, Whitey has battled alcoholism. The award recognizes his 33 years of victory over the disease.

As part of Whitey's celebration of sobriety, he has served as a sponsor to numerous men, women and even teenagers who need the understanding that comes from a person who has shared in similar suffering. The testimonials submitted as part of his nomination illustrate Whitey's willingness to be there day or night, seven days a week, for others battling alcoholism, talking through the life crises that allow a recovering person to continue overcoming. Even in the darkest night, when urges may be strongest, Whitey is there, willing to help.

The NABC Pride Committee is honored and blessed to recognize these outstanding humanitarians, and looks forward to November 2008, when it gets the chance to celebrate more high-caliber acts of kindness. “These individuals and those like them are the heart and soul of the collision industry,” states PRIDE Chairman Gary Wano. “They are willing to take three or four extra steps, if needed, to help others in need. For 12 years the PRIDE Award has benchmarked the NABC goal, ‘…that the collision repair industry be recognized as an essential profession serving the community.’ Congratulations to our noble roster of PRIDE winners and thank you for continuing to do the right thing.”

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.
###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information contact:
Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director
Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org e-mail:


 NABC, the Marine Reserve and the Collision Industry Serve Up Christmas Joy to Needy Children at NACE 2007

Richmond, VA, November 15, 2007 — Though contributions fell short of what was originally anticipated, the National Auto Body Council (NABC)—through some last minute contributions of its own—raised $3750 to buy toys for needy Las Vegas-area children. The effort was made in concert with the U.S. Marine Reserve Toys for Tots campaign, which took place at NACE 2007 and related events.

“We got caught up in kind of a numbers game this year,” states Charles Dillard, chairman of NABC’s Leave Something Behind Committee which spearheaded the campaign. “Many worthy causes were vying for attention at NACE, and the donation dollars that were available ended up being split more ways than we expected.”

As a result, some of the $20 limited edition Christmas ornaments which NABC sold to raise money ($15 went directly to purchasing toys) were left unsold. NABC purchased the remainder.

“I’d be fibbing if I didn’t admit some disappointment in the industry’s performance here,” admits NABC Executive Director Chuck Sulkala, “but then I think about the joy our gifts will bring to the children in the area and it puts everything into perspective. NABC will continue to move forward as we look toward the next opportunity to ‘leave something behind’ for the good of a hosting community.”

Despite the shortfall in ornament sales, much was positive about the NACE Toys for Tots experience. The Marine color guard opened Collision Industry Conference (CIC) on Tuesday, October 30, marching into the meeting room and leading participants in a rousing version of the National Anthem. At the NABC Christmas tree in the NABC booth, Santa was in fine form, spreading Christmas cheer and sharing photo opportunities with members of the Las Vegas Marine Corps Reserve who, on Friday, November 2, received a giant-sized check from NABC representing the donation sum.

Dillard, who presented the check and expressed his gratitude in a short address to those assembled, found himself somewhat humbled by the experience. “I never realized how much hard work and dedication goes into being a part of the Leave Something Behind Committee,” he explains. “I want to thank the committee members and all the generous people of our industry who came forward and made a contribution on behalf of the children of Las Vegas. A positive act can have an impact that lasts a lifetime. I consider myself fortunate to have seen many such acts during the course of, what was for me, an unforgettable week.”

Though NACE has come and gone, those who still wish to contribute to NABC’s Toys for Tots can contact NABC by phone or e-mail. For additional information on the Toys for Tots partnership, contact Charles Dillard at (503) 641-5634 or e-mail him at charlesd@precisionfirst.com.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.
###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information contact:
Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director
Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org e-mail:


 Santa and the NABC Leave Something Behind Committee Help Bring Holiday Joy to the Children of Las Vegas

Richmond, VA, October23, 2007 —  Excitement is building as NACE approaches and the next chapter of the National Auto Body Council’s (NABC) “Leave Something Behind Campaign” is ready to kick into gear.

This time the NABC is teaming up with the United States Marine Corps Reserves in support of its Toys for Tots program, which focuses on collecting new, unwrapped toys and distributing them as Christmas gifts to needy children in local communities—in this case, Las Vegas. To raise the funds to buy the gifts, NABC is selling special limited edition Christmas ornaments at the NABC board meeting, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) board meeting and Collision Industry Conference (CIC). The remaining ornaments will be hung from the NABC Christmas tree at the NABC trade show booth where they will be available for purchase until quantities run out.

The sale price of the decorations is $20 each, $15 of which will go toward toys. There will be 250 ornaments in all. The Marines have also made arrangements to make a donation box available for toys at the NABC booth.

To ensure every purchasing dollar goes as far as possible, the Marines are working with Phase IV Marketing, Inc., a leading local toy supplier and distributor who has a long-standing relationship with the area’s Toys for Tots program and will immediately turn the proceeds into gifts.

“Though we plan to raise $3750 through sale of ornaments, our hope is to raise $5000 in all,” explains Charles Dillard, chairman of the Leave Something Behind committee. “Hopefully everyone attending will make the effort to visit our booth, help less fortunate children have a joyful Christmas, and in the process, give something back to the Las Vegas community.”

NABC and the Marine Corps are pulling out all the stops to make the occasion a memorable one. To kick off the fund-raiser, the Marine Color Guard will perform at CIC opening ceremonies at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, October 30. On Friday, November 2, a special presentation at the NABC Christmas tree is planned for 3 p.m. at which time representatives from the Marine Corps Reserve will receive a generous sampling of toys and a check from the Leave Something Behind committee representing the money that has been raised. Donations can be made up until this time.

In addition, Santa Claus himself will be roaming the aisles of the trade show, throwing his considerable weight behind the Leave Something Behind campaign and directing people toward the NABC booth. Jolly old Saint Nick will also be available for photo opportunities with children of all ages, who are encouraged to tell him what they really want for Christmas.

“It is a great honor to work with the Marine Corps Reserve to make this a special and I daresay, unforgettable event,” states NABC Executive Director Chuck Sulkala. “As a result of NACE, Las Vegas has become almost a second home to the collision repair industry. Making a contribution to such gracious hosts is especially meaningful. The Leave Something Behind committee looks forward to making this an annual event.”

Though this installment of the Leave Something Behind program is being marketed exclusively to those who attend the events in Las Vegas, those not attending who wish to contribute can contact NABC by phone or e-mail. For additional information on the Toys for Tots partnership, contact Charles Dillard at (503) 641-5634 or e-mail him at charlesd@precisionfirst.com.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org. 

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.
###

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information contact:
Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director
Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org e-mail:


 Collision Industry Uniting Behind Recycled Rides

Suppliers, manufacturers and insurers step forward to contribute however they can.

Richmond, VA, October 25, 2007 — Recycled Rides™—nationwide vehicle donation program being piloted this year by the National Auto Body Council (NABC)—is uniting the different collision industry segments in a way that is unique and unprecedented.

While the core of the program remains the ten collision repair businesses that are each refurbishing a vehicle to be given to a family in need in their community, the project has attracted a variety of industry participants, each contributing in their own way to ensure the vehicles are ready for the big give-away on November 19.

An ambitious endeavor takes a dedicated, diverse team to pull off, and Recycled Rides boasts ten of them! Some insurers have donated cars from their salvage pools. Parts suppliers and paint manufacturers are contributing products and materials to help finish repairs. A fast oil change facility is providing months of free maintenance.

“Watching everyone come together to help those less fortunate shows the willingness of the good people of this industry to work to serve the best interests of others,” says Michael Quinn, of 911 Collision Centers in Tucson, Arizona, and chairman of NABC’s Recycled Rides committee. “Lord knows we have enough challenges and friction in our daily business lives. This is a great opportunity to step back for a moment, take a deep breath and give thanks for the positive experiences that come our way.”

The ten charter participants in the Recycled Rides program are:

Cook’s Collision Center (Northern California)     FIX Auto Headquarters (Southern California)
F. Lofrano & Sons (San Francisco, CA)                Keenan Auto Body (Philadelphia, PA)
Moppert Brothers Autobody (Philadelphia, PA)   Northwest CARSTAR (Omaha, NE)
Precision Paint & Body (Beaverton, OR)              Sports & Imports (Atlanta, GA)
911 Collision Centers (Las Vegas, NV)                911 Collision Centers (Tucson, AZ)

The following is a partial list of those who are assisting participating shops in the reconstruction of donated vehicles (a complete, more detailed list will be provided at the conclusion of the project):

Akzo Coatings                  American Family
Beaverton Toyota            DuPont
Finishmaster                    GEICO Insurance
Industrial Finishes           Jack Furrier Tires
Jiffy Lube                         LKQ
P&B Paint Supply             Metro Glass
TTucson Dodge                State Farm Insurance

“The excitement expressed by the folks in each location is palpable and inspiring,” states NABC Treasurer Karen Fierst, who oversees NABC’s Recycled Rides subcommittee. “I wish I could be at each shop on November 19 when these vehicles are simultaneously given away. I had the pleasure of co-chairing NABC's 2000 Habitat for Humanity project in Kansas City, and it was very fulfilling to meet the recipient family. I am sure the participating shops will feel that same sense of pride and satisfaction knowing they have made a big difference in the lives of deserving families.”

Those who desire a first-hand look at the result of Recycled Rides teamwork can do so at NACE. One of the vehicles to be donated will be exhibited, complete with green bow “gift-wrapping.” The display will be near the Spray-Tech and 3-M booths (W3973 and W3967, respectively). Representatives from participating shops will be in attendance providing information and answering questions about the program. All NACE attendees are invited to stop by and visit the NABC booth (W3871) as well.

“It will give repairers a chance to feel the charge of energy that flows through this project,” adds Quinn. “If we build the kind of enthusiasm that I think we will, I don’t think it’s a stretch to say we can shoot for 100 simultaneous donations in 2008. Talk about impact! That’s the kind of difference-making that lies squarely at the center of the NABC mission.”

Those seeking more information about NABC’s Recycled Rides or having an interest in signing up for next year’s program should contact NABC’s administrative office at 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or e-mail info@autobodycouncil.org.

About Recycled Rides: The Recycled Rides concept was adopted by the NABC based upon Akzo Nobel's Benevolence Program, a similar vehicle donation program available to that company's customers. The Akzo Nobel Benevolence Program has been donating vehicles to families and organizations in need since 1999. Additional development support came from Roger Cada of State Farm and his wife, Susan, who are active in a similar, faith-based program. Roger was recognized with an NABC Pride Award in part for his involvement in the charity.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information contact:
Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director
Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org e-mail:


 Call for PRIDE Nominations Extended to
September 24

Richmond, VA, September, 14, 2007 — Due to an overwhelmingly positive response on the part of the collision industry, the National Auto Body Council (NABC) PRIDE Committee is extending the date through which it will accept nominations for the 13th Annual PRIDE Awards. The new deadline is September 24.

The PRIDE Awards are an annual effort to identify and celebrate those in the collision industry who selflessly perform exceptional deeds that exemplify the giving spirit of the industry. In the past 12 years, over 50 awards have been presented, traditionally at the Industry Achievement Night held in conjunction with NACE.

“This year we’ve emphasized the variety of professions that are eligible under the collision industry banner and we’ve been flooded with nominations as a result,” explains PRIDE Committee Chairman Gary Wano. “We’re giving people a few more weeks to get their selections in just to make sure we don’t miss any deserving parties. This is a great showing on the industry’s part, and on behalf of the PRIDE Committee I’d like to say thanks and ‘Keep them coming’.”

PRIDE nominations may be made online at the NABC website, www.autobodycouncil.org, where a list of past winners and their deeds is also available. In addition, the website contains a downloadable version of the nomination form that can be printed and faxed into the NABC office.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.  

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.
###

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information contact:
Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director
Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org e-mail:


 NABC’s Teams Up with U. S. Marine Corps Reserves for Latest “Leave Something Behind” Campaign

Richmond, VA, September 7, 2007 — For the second installment of its “Leave Something Behind” campaign in 2007, the National Auto Body Council (NABC) is pleased to announce it is teaming up with the United States Marine Corps Reserves in support of its renowned Toys for Tots program.

Toys for TotsThe mission of the Toys for Tots Foundation is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute them as Christmas gifts to children in local communities. Its goals, scope and timing fall squarely in line with “Leave Something Behind,” which strives to exhibit—through a specific, charitable activity—the caring sprit of the collision industry in a locality hosting one of its events.

The spotlighted community this time is Las Vegas, Nevada, home to NACE 2007 from October 31 through November 3. NABC will be working with the Marine Reservists in that city to deliver hope to needy youngsters through the gift of shiny new toys at Christmas.

To raise funds for the donated toys and provide a mechanism through which individual collision industry professionals can contribute, NABC will be selling Christmas ornaments at NACE-related events this year. They may be purchased at the NABC and Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) board meetings as well as Collision Industry Conference (CIC). In addition, the ornaments will be made available at the NABC booth. A cash contribution not specifically related to an ornament purchase can also be made at that time for the toys.

The idea to pair up with Toys for Tots came from Charles Dillard, first-time chairman of the Leave Something Behind committee who takes over for outgoing chair Dan Risley. “I’ve always had a soft spot for children—my volunteer work with our local Children’s Hospital has helped make me that way—and that led me to research charities that made young people their focus,” Dillard explains. “Toys for Tots has a solid reputation and is very active in the Las Vegas area. The Leave Something Behind committee and NABC felt confident they would be a good partner and we moved forward with the program.”

The tree decorations are being sold for $20 each, $15 of which will go toward the purchasing of toys. NABC hopes to raise a total of $3750 in all. The gifts it purchases will be presented to the Toys for Tots Foundation at a special NACE celebration. Details will follow.

“As a former Sergeant in the Marine Corps Reserve myself, I am especially pleased that Charles and the committee has decided to work with Toys for Tots,” states NABC Executive Director Chuck Sulkala. “It’s a great way to build on the spirit of giving that lies at the core of the Leave Something Behind program. There are few things as wondrous as seeing a child’s face light up in surprise when presented an unexpected Christmas gift. This NACE is certain to be special. Semper Fi.”

Though this installment of the Leave Something Behind program is being marketed exclusively to those who attend the aforementioned events in Las Vegas, those not attending that wish to contribute in can contact NABC by phone or e-mail. For additional information on the Toys for Tots partnership, contact Charles Dillard at (503) 641-5634 or e-mail him at charlesd@precisionfirst.com.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.
 

 

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.
###

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information contact:
Chuck Sulkala, NABC Executive Director
Phone: (888 66-PRIDE) or e-mail: chuck@autobodycouncil.org e-mail:


 NABC’s Recycled Rides Program Starts Rolling

Richmond, VA, August 10, 2007 — The National Auto Body Council (NABC) today announced that its Recycled Rides™ pilot program has officially launched following a conference call earlier this week with the ten repair facility members eagerly waiting to participate. Recycled Rides is a nationwide awareness project that assists members of the NABC to repair and donate recycled vehicles for families in need. As part of the program, participating members will donate refurbished family-size vehicles on Monday, November 19, just prior to Thanksgiving.

The concept was adopted based upon Akzo Nobel’s Benevolence Program, a similar vehicle donation program available to that company’s customers. The Akzo Nobel Benevolence Program has been donating vehicles to families and organizations in need since 1999. Additional development support came from Roger Cada of State Farm and his wife, Susan, who are active in a similar faith-based program. Roger was recognized with an NABC Pride Award in part for his involvement in the charity.

The NABC Board of Directors enthusiastically embraced the Recycled Rides concept when it was proposed two years ago by Akzo Nobel’s Tom Moreland, an NABC board member. Gary Wano and then NABC Treasurer Russell Thrall III chaired the 2006 initiative, collecting information and spearheading the development of the program with significant assistance from Roger and Susan Cada. With the election of new board members at NACE 2006 and the delegation of new assignments in early 2007, NABC Treasurer Karen Fierst invited shop owner and newly elected NABC board member Michael Quinn, of 911 Collision Centers in Tucson, Arizona, to pick up the reins and get the program off the ground in 2007. Quinn took the lead, recruiting shops, talking with vendors and—with assistance from Fierst—finalizing the program’s format and authoring a Recycled Rides collision repair shop program guide and operations manual.

“NABC’s Recycled Rides provides shops with all the tools they need to successfully implement the program,” says Quinn. “The program guide is a step-by-step roadmap that includes obtaining a suitable vehicle, what to look for in a local charity partner, how to secure parts and materials donations and preparing and implementing the give-away event.”

“The charter shops involved in this inaugural year have really stepped up to the plate,” adds Fierst. “They are the pioneers in what NABC plans to be an ongoing project for our members. Mike Quinn has done a great job of pulling these folks together.”

“Recycled Rides was developed as a vehicle to facilitate NABC’s core mission of developing and implementing programs and activities to enhance the image of the collision industry,” states NABC Executive Director, Chuck Sulkala. “What better way to accomplish that than having our suppliers, vendors, shop owners and technicians all working together to improve local communities?”

Many insurers, paint vendors and parts suppliers have expressed interest in supporting Recycled Rides and participating shops by donating cars, materials, parts and other related items. NABC plans to work directly with the shops involved to help bring local and national exposure to the good works of the profession.

“During this pilot year we’ll evaluate our procedures with the assistance of the charter shops so we can continually grow this program,” Quinn explains. “It’s a great way for a shop to make a difference in its own community utilizing the skills it knows best. My personal goal is to have 500 shops participating in NABC’s Recycled Rides by 2010. Imagine 500 simultaneous vehicle donations!”

Troy Holm and Collision Services will support Recycled Rides by assisting with development of the project kit which will go to participating shops. The kit includes a notebook, key documents and a CD. In addition, Collision Services is taking care of printing informational brochures, securing the big green bows and banners and sending out the shop certificates at the end of the project.

“NABC hopes that, in addition to benefiting society, this type of activity will excite shop employees and help change the image it has both of itself and the community at large at a grassroots level,” says Thrall, who is now NABC President. “Getting Recycled Rides off the ground is significant on many levels, not the least of which is that it directly parallels the goals of NABC’s 2007 industry image campaign.”

Anyone seeking information about NABC’s Recycled Rides or having an interest in signing up for the 2008 version of the program should contact NABC’s administrative office at 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or e-mail info@autobodycouncil.org.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org.

NABC Recycled Rides 2007 Charter Participants

1. F. Lofrano & Sons – San Francisco, CA
2. Cooks Collision – Northern CA
3. Keenan Autobody – Philadelphia, PA
4. Moppert Brothers Autobody – Philadelphia, PA
5. Precision Paint & Body – Beaverton, OR
6. FIX Auto Headquarters - Southern CA
7. Greg Petersen CARSTAR – Omaha, NE
8. Sports & Imports – Atlanta, GA
9. 911 Collision Centers – Tucson, AZ
10. 911 Collision Centers – Las Vegas,

NABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer at a time.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                             


Nominations Now Open for 2007 PRIDE Awards

 Richmond, VA, July 13, 2007 — The National Auto Body Council (NABC) PRIDE Committee announces that nominations are now open for the 13th Annual PRIDE Awards. This is an annual effort to identify, and celebrate those in the collision industry who selflessly perform exceptional deeds, contributing above and beyond to humanity, exemplifying the giving spirit of the industry and, thereby, improving the image of the collision industry.

 “The opening of nominations is a call to action for the industry,” states PRIDE Committee Chairman Gary Wano. “It kicks off a grass roots search to find people who roll up their sleeves and, on a daily basis, get down to the business of making the world a better place, whether it’s running into a burning building to save a child, giving an elderly person rides to the grocery store, or feeding the homeless at a shelter.”

The PRIDE Committee relies on other members of NABC and the industry at large to bring forward nominations. The committee then undertakes an in-depth review of nominees and their respective good works. In the past 12 years, over 50 awards have been presented, traditionally at the Industry Achievement Night held in conjunction with NACE. Nominees will receive a letter of recognition, as well.

This year the committee is re-emphasizing the variety of professions that make up the collision industry and are, therefore, composed of people who are eligible to be nominated. Besides collision repairers, qualified individuals, business organizations and groups include suppliers, vehicle manufacturers, supplier/vendors, educators, trade associations, independent appraisers and members of the insurance industry.

“We’re trying to re-ignite an awareness in those that might be on the fence about stepping forward to uncover one of these unsung champions,” explains NABC Executive Director Chuck Sulkala. “PRIDE has a fine tradition of being inclusive when it comes to recognizing good deeds and worthy individuals. As we begin the nomination process, it’s good to remember how far the reach of our organization extends, and how we all benefit from positive recognition bestowed upon those with whom we work.”

PRIDE nominations may be made online at the NABC website, www.autobodycouncil.org, where a list of past winners and their deeds may also be accessed. In addition, there is a downloadable version of the nomination form that can be printed and faxed into the NABC office. A formal closing date for nominations has not yet been announced, but is expected to be within the September time frame.

“We’d like to gently urge everyone to begin thinking about those they might like to nominate,” adds Wano, “and we encourage circulating the forms to customers, who can help publicize the search and may have good suggestions for candidates. We certainly don’t want to miss anyone.”

In other PRIDE-related news, a series of monthly articles profiling past award winners will begin in August. The series, which is entitled, “Heroes Among Us,” will describe in detail the every day good works accomplished by these collision industry professionals.

NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our ongoing and continued success is a direct result of the efforts and support of our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE) or go to www.autobodycouncil.org. 

ABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                            


Drive to Sponsor WorldSkills Competition Participants Begins in Earnest

 Richmond, VA, June 8, 2007 — The time has come again for the United States collision repair industry to send their best and brightest to compete on an international stage. The 39th WorldSkills Competition is taking place in Shizuoka, Japan from November 14–21, 2007 and the U. S. collision industry is being called upon to help support those representing our country.

WorldSkills provides an exchange and comparison of world-class competency standards in 38 different industrial trades and service sectors of the global economy, including autobody repair and refinishing. Held every two years at different locations around the globe, the event allows young auto body and refinish technicians from America to showcase their abilities next to their peers from a total of 45 different countries. It is essentially an Olympics for industries involved.

World SkillsThrough SkillsUSA, a nonprofit, membership-driven partnership of students, teachers and industry representatives, candidates go through a rigorous series of competitions first at school, then at the regional, state and national levels to determine who qualifies for the trip to Japan.

“The WorldSkills competition provides an important public relations component for our industry by emphasizing the accomplished, exciting career that collision repair can be,” states Mark Claypool, President and CEO of Mentors at Work and the volunteer TeamUSA Leader for the WorldSkills Competition. “This positive visibility reflects well on the industry as a whole; it can be leveraged into an ideal vehicle for recruiting talented young individuals into our workforce.”

The characteristics of the WorldSkills competition are clearly in line with those of the National Auto Body Council (NABC) and its commitment to enhancing industry image. “Those who emerge from this competition have proven time and again to be outstanding role models for other young people in the trade,” says NABC Executive Director Chuck Sulkala. “We, at NABC, cherish the event. Its success is fundamental to our future as an industry.”

Because there is no government funding for the event—placing United States hopefuls at a significant disadvantage to challengers from other countries—financial support must come from private sources. For the 2005 competition in Helsinki, Finland, NABC and its fund-raising arm, the Collision Industry Foundation, adopted the cause resulting in a $50,000 grant to SkillsUSA that allowed two young technicians, Nick Ranker (Colorado) and Bodie Smith (Utah), to make the trip and represent our country.

This year, Mike Anderson of Wagonwork Collision Centers in Alexandria, Virginia has taken up the mantle, making it his mission to facilitate fund-raising efforts. He has already sent out a letter of appeal to over 700 industry-related individuals and entities, and—with help from organizations like NABC—plans on creating even more visibility for the cause in the upcoming days. It’s not an easy task, but Anderson is up to the challenge.

“We’re talking about sustaining the industry’s lifeblood here which makes this far too important a cause to ignore,” Anderson says. “With the help of individuals like Darrell Amberson from ASA, Nick Kostackis from AASP and Dan Risley from SCRS, we are focusing on asking all of our affiliated associations to dig deeply and help fund expenses related to the competition and any additional training that is needed. With that kind of support, and the solid leadership of Mark Claypool who will be accompanying the finalists on their odyssey to Japan, I have no doubt that we will succeed.”

While the initial focus of the sponsorship drive has been aimed at associations, Anderson and his team will be broadening their emphasis to include individual repair businesses, as well as suppliers and insurers. “I think everyone benefits from increased industry professionalism,” adds Anderson, “and for that reason we’re reaching out to as many as we can.”

“On the behalf of NABC I would like to extend my thanks to Mike and Mark for taking the ball and running with it,” concludes Sulkala. “They exemplify the true spirit of the industry and the pride at the heart of it.”

Those interested in contributing to the WorldSkills competition can do so by contacting NABC. NABC will be collecting the money gathered at the association level and will be holding it in a special Collision Industry Foundation account that will be converted into a grant for SkillsUSA at the appropriate time. Checks from contributors can be made out to the Collision Industry Foundation and sent to NABC at the address at the top of this release.

For additional information, e-mail Mark Claypool at mclaypool@mentorsatwork.com.  Mike Anderson can be reached at manderson@wagonwork.com. Visit the official SkillsUSA website at www.skillsusa.org and the official WorldSkills website at www.worldskills.org.

 NABC is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the image of the collision industry. Our continued success is a direct result of the effort and support from our sponsoring companies and membership. Please contact NABC directly for membership information. Call 1-888-667-7433 (888-66PRIDE), e-mail info@autobodycouncil.org or visit www.autobodycouncil.org. 

ABC ~ Changing the image of our industry, one consumer

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                             


Savvy Strategies for Surviving a Fender Bender
BBB Says It Begins With Choosing a Trustworthy Collision Center


 May 2007, Washington, DC – The Council of Better Business Bureaus says that just as consumers must be vigilant about checking out credentials when choosing contractors to do needed repairs on their homes, consumers should be just as prudent after an accident in checking out which collision repair center is the most qualified to fix one of their most expensive possessions. With more than 35,000 auto body repair shops nationwide, there are a lot of choices.

And there is a lot of demand. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s most recent statistics, there were nearly 6 million reported non-fatal motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2005. Most of these vehicles likely ended up at a collision center, where the average repair bill was $2,200 to $2,300 and where 80 to 92 percent of the work involved auto insurance claims.

Steve Cox, Vice President of The Council of Better Business Bureaus (CBBB) says, “Although an insurance company may make some recommendations, drivers have a choice when selecting an auto body repair shop. Choosing a trustworthy shop is very important for ensuring the best possible results.”

The National Auto Body Council (NABC), a not-for-profit organization representing all segments of the collision repair industry, agrees. “Despite many stereotypes about auto collision repair shops, the reality is that the industry has a high degree of professionalism and integrity,” said Chuck Sulkala, Executive Director the NABC and a second generation owner of an auto body repair business in Boston.

“One of the things that is least understood by motorists is that when a damaged car is brought in for repairs, the repair contract generally is only between the vehicle owner and the repair shop, not the auto insurance company,” said Sulkala. “It’s usually the owner’s responsibility to choose a trustworthy, quality oriented shop that will repair his or her car safely and protect its resale value.”

Choosing a shop can be confusing. So the CBBB and the NABC have teamed up to help consumers better manage the collision repair experience with tips on choosing a trustworthy shop, saving money on a replacement rental car and knowing how to settle any disputes. More information on “Wiser Drivers Wise Up” is available at www.wiserdrivers.com.

Choose a Trustworthy Collision Repair Shop

Compare collision centers before you need one. In addition to asking friends and relatives for recommendations on shops that have performed quality work for them in the past, check the shop’s qualifications by asking about advanced technician training from a national organization such as the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) or National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification.

Verify commitment to ongoing training and customer satisfaction. One way is to look for decals or plaques indicating the shop’s current membership status in industry associations, local business groups and consumer