INSIDE - Automotive Body Parts Association

VOLUME XXXIII - NUMBER 1301 • MAY-JUNE, 2013
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AUTOMOTIVE BODY PARTS ASSOCIATION
Board selects Ed Salamy as new ABPA executive director
Scheid on
search 4
Charleston
Wrapup
6/8/10
PARTS
Act
Momentum
12
News from
the Field
14/16
Rodman
’rites from
the heart
18
The company, among the larger multiple location distributors, wanted to beef up its insurance
and body shop outreach programs. In this position,
Salamy fostered the corporate liaison between KSI and large insurance carriers, government officials
and lobbyists as well as to body shop organizations.
He was also the lead corporate representative for all Industry trade shows and conventions
(SEMA, NACE, ABPA, CIC, NCOIL and CAPA). He Routinely traveled to all 23 KSI locations for
insurance relations training and to give presentations to local insurance carriers. Salamy has also represented the aftermarket
collision parts distributors on the CAPA Board of
directors of which he is still a member providing
the distributors’ viewpoint on, among other issues,
policy decisions which can impact those in the field.
His time on the frontline of distributor operations also allowed him to become knowledgeable
about ISO 9001:2008 certification and internal quality audit procedures.
Last year, Salamy was appointed an advisory
member to the ABPA board and during the Vancouver convention in late April, 2012, he was named
as the recipient of the Association’s highest annual
honor--the Al Cicioni Fellowship Award.
Said Rodman, who stayed neutral during all
of the selection process, “I believe the board chose
wisely and well in designating Ed Salamy to the executive directorship. He’s old enough to have gained
valuable experience which will serve him well in the
job. But, he’s also young enough to bring new perspectives and fresh vantage points to issues which
need them.”
Salamy has been fielding daily responsibilities
because of the health predicament in which Rodman found himself in early March. He along with
staff members of the Kutchen, Robbins, Diamond
CPA staff--Gene Barinholtz, Arlene Meyers and
Kelly Barinholtz--as well as key board members,
Nick Scheid, Kim Hicks, Dan Morrissey and convention chairperson Dolores Richardson, successfully carried through the plans for Charleston, 2013. ❑
1510 Eldridge Parkway
Suite 110-168
Houston, TX 77077
QPC changes
leadership 2
HOUSTON--Beginning June 1, the transition
of management will take place in earnest as Ed Salamy soon takes over the reigns of ABPA and moves
the association offices to Smithfield, R.I..
Salamy will take over from Stan Rodman who
with his wife Myrna will retire on June 30 after a
more than 30 year run with the asEd Salamy
sociation.
Salamy was selected this past
February by a search committee of
the Board of Directors which has
their pick ratified by the remaining members of the Board in a
subsequent conference call.
In selecting Salamy, a former
employee of the KSI Group, the
board felt it incumbent to have an
individual who well known within
the industry and who also knows
the key players.
Salamy’s experience and background fit that
bill. He started in the industry mid-1998 when he
was hired by Veng USA after graduating Rhode Island College with a bachelor’s degree in business
communication.
As the wholesale accounts manager, he not only
got to know distributors throughout the United
States, but he also developed direct communications
with Taiwanese suppliers to broker container orders
on the customers’ behalf. Joining the KSI Group soon after the turn of the
century, Salamy worked out of the company’s Franklin, Ma, location as the director of industry relations.
CCHHAAN N
G EG EA DSD ER R
E SV SI CREE QRUEE Q
S TUEEDS T E D
INSIDE
ON
THE PATENT ISSUE
Quality Parts Coalition undergoes leadership changes
After 7 years, Eileen Sottile resigns as QPC head; Morrissey moves in
SMITHFIELD, R.I.--Recently appointed ABPA Executive Director Ed
Salamy in late May sent a letter to the
membership updating them on important matters impacting their business.
Salamy primarily covered the direction of the Quality Parts Coalition
and the necessity of ABPA members to
support this organization financially, especially given the status of two important bills in Congress.
The Promoting Automotive Repair,
Trade and Sales (PARTS) Act (S. 780
and H.R 1663) has been reintroduced
in both the House and Senate. What
makes this reintroduction special is that
for the first time, both bills have bipartisan backing which they previously did
not have.
These bills will reduce the car company’s patent rights on collision parts to
2.5 years, down from the current 14 year
limit. Most in the industry understand
how vital the passage is to the survival
of an independent parts
aftermarket.
Salamy also brought
the membership up to
date on the fact that ABPA
Chairman Danny Morrissey is now also serving
as the interim executive
director of the QPC having replaced Eileen Sottile.
Sottile let it be known
in late February that she
was resigning because of
Sottile
the press of her normal
duties which comprise
protecting the legislative and regulatory
interests of her employer, the LKQ Cor-
Body Language
The Body Language, ISSN 1526-8918, is
an official publication of the Automotive
Body Parts Ass’n, 1510 Eldridge Pkwy,
Suite 110-168, Houston, Tx., 77077.
Phone (800) 323-5832; (281) 531-0809;
or Fax ABPA at (281) 531-9411. E-mail
address is: srodman1@sbcglobal.net
Website: www.autobpa.com
Stanley A. Rodman, Executive Director
of ABPA; Editor/Publisher of association publications.
poration, for which she serves as vice
president of government relations.
LKQ continually finds itself having to intercede in battles
on two fronts--one in the
aftermarket where collision parts are concerned
and the other in the arena
of recycled parts as it pertains to salvage.
As a result, Sottile has
remained constantly on
the move, protecting not
only her employer’s interests but also by way of extension, those of the ABPA
membership. She serves
with Danny Morrissey as the co-chair of
the ABPA Legislative Committee, too.
With all of these hats and all of this
travel, something had to give and it was
with regret that she relinquished the
QPC executive directorship.
Morrissey, stepping into the breach
on an interim basis until a
new permanent executive
director is in place, said,
“In regard to Eileen’s resignation, it should be noted that she continues to
do battle at the local level,
State by State – Bill by
Bill, protecting the more
immediate threats we face
from restrictive parts usage legislative efforts.”
He added, “The Design Patent issue is critical
and is like a marathon--it
may takes several years
before we reach our objective.”
“These state issues can be viewed as
a sprint and be pushed into effect in just
the matter of weeks or months.
Eileen has done a great job fighting
these off and limiting those initiatives
which could devastate a whole market’s
viability.
Added Morrissey, “While her actions at the local level certainly benefits
her employer, every other member in
those areas also benefit from her efforts
and diligence.
Now, Morrissey has but one job and
that is to ensure that the transition from
Sottile to the next executive director will
be done smoothly and that the QPC will
continue to be led in the best interest of
its respective membership and supporters.
Referencing that support, Salamy said, “In order for these bills to have
any chance of passage, we
need a wider base of financial support from our
membership.
There is a container
fee schedule which is fair
to both the biggest and the
smallest of distributors.
Morrissey Plus there always exists
the option for an industry
member to make a direct contribution
at the dollar amount of their choosing.
All donations sent to the Association’s Quality Parts Fund will be directly
put towards getting the PARTS Act
pushed through to a successful conclusion.”
Salamy added, “Dan Morrissey and
I strongly emphasis the necessity for
your immediate support right now.
“It is past the time for all distributors to participate in this cause which
will help ensure that our livelihoods are
maintained and that we put a halt to the
OEMs’ quest for a monopoly on collision replacement parts.”
For further information on other
ways that you can contribute, please
contact Ed Salamy directly at (800) 3235832 or visit www.autobpa.com.
For more information on the
PARTS Act and the QPC, visit www.
keepautopartsaffordable.org ❑
AUSTIN, TX--This state’s capital
city may be the site of the 2014 ABPA
convention in late April.
In a close vote among the membership, Austin narrowly beat out
Miami. New Orleans was a distance
third.
Currently, the staff is commuicating with hotels in the area to determine their date availablillty and
room rates.
Said ABPA’s newly appointed
exec, Ed Salamy, “We should have
a solid decision within the next three
to four weeks as to where we are
headed in 2014.”
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Board looks at all options in
deciding future leadership
for ABPA, industry
by Nick Scheid
I am using this column in the Body
Language to give you some insight of
the activities of your board of directors
during the last 12 months.
I know it may appear from the
membership perspective that not much
is happening, which could not be further from the truth.
I’d be derelict if I did not thank my
co-board members for their dedication and diligence, donating many hours of personal Scheid
time, just to ensure our
members’ best interests are
being achieved.
Again, from some of
the members’ vantage point
this is unknown and that is
why I feel obligated to share
with you what these directors have done and contributed to your association on
your behalf.
Since last year’s annual
convention in Vancouver,
BC. the board of directors
began in earnest the search for our
new executive director as the succession process began to heat up with Stan
Rodman’s retirement looming just 12
months away.
It is extremely important that you
understand the work required in conducting such a search for the best possible replacement. Whether we were
considering an individual or a management company, it was the mission of the
board to look for that needle in a haystack candidate who could step in and
take the ABPA into the future.
Last June the executive committee
composed requirements--an RFP (Request for Proposal)--which would allow
us to receive comparable bids.
The process was facilitated when we
submitted this document to the AMCI
(Association Management Companies
Institute) website as well as some individual associates who had demonstrated
an interest in the position.
We expected we would get a half
dozen replies; we received 25! Twenty
Five proposals averaging more than 20
PRESIDENT’S
pages of why we should “Select Them”
as the successor.
This was no easy task to digest.
These proposals had to be read, analyzed, narrowed down and then, among
the top candidates, interviews both
scheduled and conducted.
We never lost sight of the importance of our selection. We are not talking about a clerical position or a general
labor position; we are talking about the
executive director, the new persona of
the ABPA!
Stan Rodman has
held this position forever
and the board never had
such a challenge. As a result,
there was no roadmap or
past directives to reference
so we were on our own. I
might also add that Rodman begged off the process
because he strongly felt the
board needed to make this
decision on their own.
Our sole mission was
to do what was in the best
interest for the ABPA and
the members who have entrusted this
decision to us.
During these past six to eight
months, your Executive Committee
spent hours, probably better stated as
days, pouring over all the details of this
decision and although we did not all
agree on which was the best option, we
never wavered in our dedication to find
our members the best candidate.
We would not compromise the
needs of the association just to simplify
the process.
I believe we succeeded, I am excited
by the experience, energy and enthusiasm Ed Salamy brings to the executive
directors position, but this is not about
that.
It is my way of sharing with you
the hard work and diligence your board
of directors performed in this process.
Letting you know we do not take this
position for granted and that when you
vote for the board members, you are appointing them as your representative,
something I believe each board member
takes very seriously and respectfully.
MESSAGE
I have served on the board now for
seven years, the last two as your president, and simply cannot say enough
about my co-board members, other
than it was my honor to work with them
as we navigated this process.
Two of them are departing on July
1--Jim Smith and Charlie Hogarty. I
thank them both for all they did and
how they helped. I also want to thank
the rest of the board for helping get
through this process and the support
they provided with our final selection.
I welcome our new members, Joseph Tsai and Mike Koren and look forward to working with them. Their terms
officially begin July 1st and it is apparent they are eager to contribute as they
both are already rolling up their sleeves
and helping the board start working on
this year’s challenges and projects.
In closing I hope you will take the
time to:
● Thank your board members
when you speak with them or simply
send them an e-mail to express your
appreciation, they deserve it and nothing is more energizing than recognition
from your peers.
● Contact Stan and Myrna, they
have served your needs for more 30 years
and it was unfortunate they missed their
final convention after planning most of
the 33rd annual meeting. But, he is very
fortunate that he is still able to take your
call. You owe them a proper farewell.
● I hope you will embrace Ed Salamy as he contacts you and tries to learn
your needs and expectations of association membership. There is no crystal
ball, he will only know what you need
if you tell him and he will ensure your
words and recommendations get to the
board of directors.
● Get involved! In your community, in your State, in Federal issues. Even
with a dedicated executive director and
board of directors, your voice must be
heard as well. We are all in this together
and we need each other to make the
changes we need to run our businesses
unencumbered by unnecessary and
costly laws and regulations.
I appreciate your support as I serve
out my last two years of eligibility on the
board and would like to hear from you
directly if you have any suggestions or
complaints.
It is my honor to be your president
and I take this position very seriously. ❑
Body Language 4
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IN CHARLESTON, SC
Industry looks at PartsTrader, design patent law, certification
benefiting, other insurance carriers benefiting, the parts
by John Yoswick
channels benefiting.”
CHARLESTON--PartsTrader, patent law issues and cerHe said State Farm’s endorsement helped PartsTrader,
tification programs for parts and distributors were all on the
which began in New Zealand, attract a significant amount of
agenda as the Automotive Body
private equity funding. But, he said, State Farm nor any inParts Association (ABPA) held its
surer has any equity in the firm, nor do any parts suppliers,
annual convention here in early
automakers or collision repair organizations.
May.
“We come to the marketplace as an honest broker,” Sailer
Here are some of the highlights
said. “It doesn’t matter to us who wins or loses. People win or
of the event held over the May 1-4
lose based on their performance in the marketplace.”
period at the No. Charleston EmHe said that starting in April, PartsTrader launched a
bassy Suites:
feedback system asking shops to rate suppliers on the system,
PartsTrader offers introduction:
based on parts and service quality, as well as asking vendors
George Avery of State Farm told
to rate shops in terms of payment practices, return rates, etc.
ABPA convention attendees that
“That information is currently being captured,” Sailer
Avery
the insurer voluntarily stopped
said. “We’re finished up the algorithm so we can present back
mandated use of non-OEM alterto you a rating system so you can very quickly discern if this
natives for 25 part types following
is somebody you think you feel comfortable (doing business
a lawsuit in 1990s.
with).”
But, he said, State Farm does use some non-OEM parts
on the 30,000 claims it handles each day, and shops are able to
New leadership: The convention offered new ABPA
use others if specifically requested by vehicle owners.
Executive Director Ed Salamy an opportunity to share his
But Avery said it’s more an interest in streamlining the
thoughts about the future direction of the industry and the
parts process rather than involvement in parts selection that
association.
led to State Farm’s required use of PartsTrader by its Select
“Our industry is under increased scrutiny and attack
Service shops in four markets currently.
on many fronts, including OEM price-matching, increased
Dale Sailer of PartsTrader told distributors at the concosts of doing business, patent law and market competition,”
vention that signing up to quote parts on the system could
Salamy told convention attendees. “All of these need to be adalso boost their non-OEM parts sales because about 30 perdressed, and I pledge that the ABPA will be your voice.”
cent of the approximately 600 shops using PartsTrader use it
Salamy joined the association in April to begin the tranfor more than just State Farm claims.
sition of taking over the position from long-time ABPA execHe said there are approximately 1,000 parts vendors on
utive Stan Rodman. Salamy had to step up his responsibilities
the system; each had to be nominated or invited to participate
earlier than expected as Rodman recovers from a heart attack
by at least one shop, something Sailer was asked about at the
back in March. Salamy has about 15 years experience in the
ABPA convention.
aftermarket parts industry, including the last seven as director
“There are currently 480 shops in Chicago participating,”
of industry relations for parts distributor KSI Trading ComSailer said. “If I’m a supplier, all it takes is one out of the 480 to
pany.
nominate me. Once I get nominated by one, I get access to the
Salamy promised ABPA members a number of changes,
entire marketplace. I would politely challenge a supplier that
including a revamped website, a greater presence in the trade
can’t get one out of 480 to
press and social media, a push
give you a chance.”
for new members and a “greatSailer confirmed that
er attempt to develop relationit will eventually be suppliships between ourselves, insurSailer
ers who pay fees to sell via
ers and the various body shop
PartsTrader.
associations.”
“When fees are introduced, which will be
Board elections: Also
sometime next year, and
in an election at the meeting,
it hasn’t been determined
three open ABPA board seats
what they are yet, the fees
were filled.
will be on the seller of the
Mike Dolabi of National
product,” Sailer said.
Autobody Parts Warehouse in
Sailer noted that PartGrand Prairie, Texas, was resTrader was developed not
elected to his third term on the
as a tool specifically for
board.
use by State Farm but as “a
Newly-elected to the
product for the entire inboard were Joseph Tsai of
dustry, with not just State
Farm benefiting, but shops
(Continued on Page 8)
Body Language 6
Wide range of topics on tap
at industry’s 33rd meeting
(Continued from Page 6)
United Auto Parts in San Antonio,
Texas, and Mike Koren of Continental Auto Parts in New Jersey.
Koren served the past year as a
distributor advisory member, having begun that term as a result of
the Vancouver convention in late
April, 2012.
NSF distributor certification:
Bob Frayer of NSF International
offered an update on his company’s
parts certification program, noting
that almost 1,700 parts were certiDolabi
fied in the last 12 months, an 84
percent increase in the number of certified parts.
NSF also has a distributor certification program,
launched in mid-2011, and
seven distributors have
earned that designation (up
from three a year earlier).
Frayer said about an equal
number of others are pursuing certification.
Design patent issues: Dan Morrissey of
PartsChannel has stepped
in as interim executive director of the Quality Parts
Coalition (QPC), and
NSF’s Frayer
urged parts distributors at
the convention to increase
their financial and other
support for the coalition, which he called “our only chance of
winning this battle against the design patents.”
The QPC is backing federal legislation that would reduce
the time that automakers can use design patents to prevent
other companies from producing replacement crash parts
from 14 years to just 30 months.
“It really is our survival,” Morrissey said. “The only solution is to change that law. It’s just a matter of time before it’s
going to get worse and worse. We all need to come together
and lock arms and fight this battle. The QPC has accomplished so much in such a little bit of time. We can push this
thing through, but it takes money. That’s just the way Washington works.”
Response to state regulation: Eileen Sottile, vice president of governmental affairs at LKQ Corp. and the former
executive director of the QPC, discussed how the aftermarket
parts industry could respond to a new California regulation
set to go into effect early next year. The California Department of Insurance regulation requires insurers to pay for the
costs to remove, replace and return a defective or non-compliant part; to cease the use of any part known to be non-com-
IN CHARLESTON, SC
pliant and to notify the distributor within 30 days; and to pay
for repairs based on “accepted trade standards” set by shops
licensed by the California Bureau of Automotive Repair.
“This places greater accountability on the insurer when
they require use of an aftermarket replacement part so that
damaged automobiles are repaired properly and safely,” Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones said in announcing the
regulation earlier this year.
Sottile said it’s unclear whether the regulation will have a
significant impact on insurers’ use of non-OEM parts in California.
She said LKQ Corporation is reviewing legal analysis related to a possible suit against the regulator. Such a suit, she
said, could challenge the Commissioner’s authority to promulgate the rule, or could be based on the rules impact if “we
see it has damaged our ability to compete.”
Other options, she said, could be to address the issue
through legislation, or to do nothing “if we see there truly is
no market impact.” ❑
EDITOR’S NOTE: John Yoswick, a freelance writer based in
Portland, Oregon, who has been writing about the automotive
industry since 1988, is also the editor of the weekly CRASH
Network (for a free 4-week trial subscription, visit www.CrashNetwork.com). He can be contacted by e-mail at jyoswick@
SpiritOne.com.
CAPA’s Gillis tells meeting, “We’re
considering certifying radiators”
CHARLESTON--Jack
Gillis of the Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) told an ABPA
audience here that his organization is working on
certification requires for air
conditioning condensers
and radiators.
“We did some preliminary testing on very popular radiators and we found
there are some problems,”
Gills said.
CAPA’s Gillis
“There are great radiators out there and there are
not-so-great radiators out
there. One of the issues is
radiator failures generally
occur six to 18 months down the road when the consumer has
forgotten they even had the radiator put into their vehicle.”
Gillis said CAPA compared nine non-OEM radiators to
their OEM counterparts for the 2004-07 Chevrolet Silverado,
the 2005-07 Honda Accord and the 2000-07 Ford Taurus.
Seven of the nine, Gillis said, failed to match the OEM
part.
Problems found, he said, included radiator caps that
failed pressure testing; premature corrosion issues; leaks due
to poor welding; and tube fractures. ❑
EDITOR’S NOTE: For more on this topic, see NARSA response story, page 12)
Body Language 8
HONORING
THE WORKERS
ABPA taps O’Neal for Cicioni Award; admits 3 to Hall of Fame
CHARLESTON--An ABPA convention is more than a forum for meeting people and swapping ideas, it’s also a
chance to honor those who continually
contribute to the industry.
This year during the Friday General
Business session ABPA
called forth six different
people to be recognized
by the association for
their contributions to all
members and industry
stakeholders.
Normally this special awards ceremony
is designated as the
highlight of the evening
event sponsored by Tong
Yang but since this year’s Mike O’Neal
site location, The Old
Exchange & Provost
Dungeon, did not have the audio capabilities it was decided to present the
awards earlier than usual. Mike Dolabi of National Autobody
Parts Warehouse in Grand Prairie, Tx.,
was honored with an Industry Award In
Recognition of Outstanding Effort and
Contribution towards the growth and
development of the collision parts replacement industry in the past year on
Don Williamson, aka The Colonel, was
honored in Charleston by being named
to the industry’s Hall of Fame. Former
longtime ABPA president and Founder
Award recipient Bill Singleterry accepted the award on Don’s behalf.
behalf of ABPA and its members.
The Chairman’s Award, bestowed
upon that one individual selected as
outstanding who either on or working with the ABPA Board of Directors
who by word and deed
personified the meaning of leadership went
to Bob Frayer of NSF
International in Ann
Arbor, MI
The
Presidential
Award is given to that
company selected as
the Outstanding Member Company of ABPA
which in the past year
has, by word and action, enriched the industry by contributing
to the
cause
of the membership.
Karen Fierst of
KerenOr Consultants
in Silver Spring, Md.,
was named as the recipient.
Annually, ABPA’s
highest honor, the Al
Cicioni
Fellowship
Award, is bestowed
upon that one member of the organization
who has best exemplified the spirit of association and camaraderie
among his peers during
the past year.
Named was Michael J O’Neal, president of Irish Mike’s LLC in Memphis,
TN.
Besides the annual awards, this
year marked a special occasion because
not one or two but three individuals
were admitted to ABPA’s Hall of Fame
which is signified by the coveted Founder’s Award.
It is designated as the ultimate
honor bestowed by ABPA on individuals
who will be forever recognized for their
continuous contributions to the growth of
the industry and welfare of this association.
Recipients of the Founders Award
at the 33rd annual convention were
Charlie Hogarty, Donald J. Williamson
and Stan Rodman.
Hogarty, a former president of
Keystone Automotive and a longtime
chairman of the ABPA board of directors, was initially inducted into the Association’s Hall of Fame in the early ’90s
he was among the first to receive the
Founder Award when that honor was
initially established.
But, both the convention committee and especially the board wanted to
re-affirm its appreciation of his tireless
and on-going efforts on behalf of the
industry and brought him back for a redo.
He was deeply moved by this gesture.
Absent from the ceremony were
the two other recipients, Donald J. Williamson, aka The Colonel, and Stan
Rodman, soon to retire ABPA exec, for
health reasons.
Williamson, as the
head of the company
in the 1980s and 1990s
named The Colonel’s,
Inc.--then a leading
manufacturbumper
er--was
instrumental
through his annual golf
tournament in bringing members of the old
Bumper Recyclers Association of North America (BRANA) and ABPA
together.
The golf tournaments
Karen Fierst he and his staff conducted for a dozen years-from 1987 through 1998--were instrumental in breaking down the barriers
between the two associations’ leading
members. ABPA and BRANA eventually merged in July, 1997.
Stan Rodman’s induction came as a
complete surprise. While Rodman, ABPA’s longtime
executive director, was home in Houston recuperating from a heart attack, his
three decades of service was lauded. His stepson, Eugene Barinholtz, accepted the award in his absence, delivering a short, emotion-filled acceptance
speech during the Saturday morning
business session. ❑
There ought to be a better way of starting the day than having to get up.
Body Language 10
SPURRING COMPETITION
PARTS Act would stop carmakers from growing monopoly
WASHINGTON--After years of
banging on the doors of elected representatives, The Quality Parts Coalition
(QPC) saw its efforts rewarded on Tuesday, Apr. 23.
That’s when legislators in both the
House and Senate brought forth versions of the PARTS Act.
PARTS stands for Promoting Automotive Repair, Trade and Sales and was
introduced that day by U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee Members Sheldon
Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Orrin Hatch
(R-Utah) and U.S. House Judiciary
Committee Members Darrell Issa (RCalif.) and Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.).
The QPC stated its overwhelming
support for the bicameral and bipartisan collision repair parts legislation
and urges expeditious action on these
bills by the Senate and House Judiciary
Committees.
The new bills would amend the current U.S. design patent law by lowering
the time period car companies can enforce design patents on collision repair
parts against alternative suppliers from
14 to 2.5 years.
Before the enforcement period
ends, alternative suppliers could manufacture, test, market and distribute alternative parts pre-sale without infringing
upon the design patents.
Similar legislation was introduced
by Issa and Lofgren in the 112(th) Congress. Enacting this legislation would
put the U.S. in line with the United
Kingdom, a number of other European
countries and Australia, which have already passed similar repair clause laws
to benefit consumers.
Commented Eileen Sottile, who
until recently was the head of the QPC
and shepherded the legislation through
Congress, “The PARTS Act is good for
consumers, businesses and the U.S.
economy.
NARSA exec thinks radiator certification
will sink because no marketplace demand
“But when it comes to standards,
many manufacturers do not want to
play the standards game if they are the
only ones paying for it,” he added.
Juchno sees that the shoe should
be on the other foot because regardless
of standards or not, it is still the buyers
of radiators who have an obligation to
know what they are selling.
He added, “If a sales entity is getting failures in six to 18 months, there
is a need to find better product. There is
enough of it out there.
Said the NARSA-IHTA exec, “Professionals have an obligation to know
what they are selling and recommending. That is how they add value.
He also stated that, “Many reputable parts makers and sellers do provide
information regarding testing, materials
and quality of their products. They are
already investing in the quality assurance processes to qualify their products
and they are investing in the marketing
to support their message.”
He asked, “Do they want to pay
again to have a third party do what they
are already doing? Maybe, if there is an
incentive. The way things are there are
little if any incentives.” Juchno continued, “Without economic drivers–a market created demand or a government
mandate--standards rarely succeed.
As NARSA-IHTA sees it currently,
the issue is not standards. The issues
are intelligent purchasing versus greed.
How do you fix that?
But Juchno, hedging his bets, still
said that NARSA-IHTA is aware of the
CAPA efforts and would consider requests for input or assistance on this. ❑
CHARLESTON--While CAPA is standards-setting Society of Automonow looking to certify radiators, that tive Engineers (SAE), said, “During the
certifying organization is getting a bit of past 30 years, there have been attempts
a blowback from an international group. to establish standards for aftermarket
Jack Gillis of the Certified Auto- radiators.
motive Parts Association
“But, during that
(CAPA) told an ABPA
same period, radiators
audience here that his
have become more
organization is working
and more of a comon certification requiremodity with product
ments for air conditioncoming from more
ing condensers and radiathan a half dozen key
tors.
countries.
Gillis said, “We did
If distributors are
some preliminary testing
buying radiators for
on very popular radiaresell that last only
tors, and we found there
six to 12 months, they
are some problems.”
have issues bigger
He added, “There are
than those resolved
great radiators out there
by voluntary industry
and there are not-so-great Wayne Juchno
standards.
radiators out there. One
“Standards can’t fix
of the issues is radiator
industry buying and
failures generally occur six to 18 months marketing tactics especially when radown the road when the consumer has diators have become such a competitive
forgotten they even had the radiator put commodity.”
into their vehicle.”
While CAPA appears to have its
When approached as to what CAPA member base, Juchno added, I do not
intends to do with radiator standards, know of any substantive support for afNARSA-International Heat Transfer termarket standards for radiators and
Association Executive Director Wayne condensers emanating from our indusJuchno had his own thought on this try.
movement.
“There is a bit of an irony here, he
The head of the international Heat added, because there is a great need and
Transfer Association, who worked at desire for quality products at a competione time for nearly a decade for the tive price.
(Continued on Page 14)
Body Language 12
2012 - 2013 ABPA Membership Roster 27
PartsChannel endorses
pro-consumer, pro-competition
legislation for collision repair
LOS ANGELES, CA---PartsChan- costs due to fewer choices, higher autonel, Inc., in late April announced its motive insurance premiums and more
support of congressional legislation cars being totaled, if legislation is not
introduced on April 23 intended to ad- enacted, within an industry estimated to
dress the abuse of design patents by au- be $15 billion and 64 percent controlled
tomobile manufacturers.
by automotive manufacturers,” said
Of key note was that the legislation John M. Palumbo, chief executive offiwould particularly address
cer of PartsChannel.
the delay of the introduction
Palumbo emphasized
of aftermarket collision rethe job loss in all 50 states
placement parts for up to 14
is also an important conyears under current design
sideration for lawmakpatent law.
ers, as the aftermarket
Senate Judiciary Comparts industry employs a
mittee members Sen. Shelsignificant workforce in
don Whitehouse (D-RI) and
cities across the United
Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT)
States engaged in manuand House Judiciary Comfacturing, distribution
mittee members U.S. Repand repair.
resentative Darrell Issa (R“PartsChannel
is
CA) and U.S. Representative
committed to providing
Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) introcollision repair shops,
John Palumbo
duced the bipartisan bill.
insurance
companies
While the proposed law
and consumers with the
acknowledges the legal protection of in- highest quality automotive aftermarket
tellectual property, it also recognizes the replacement crash parts that meet or
importance of competition, the interests exceed all state and federal regulations,
of consumers and the economic impli- and we look forward to the successful
cations of allowing an OEM monopoly passage of this important legislation,”
to stand via use of current patent law.
Palumbo said.
Currently, if a carmaker files for a
PartsChannel, Inc. is a privately
patent on the design of a part, that pat- held distributor of automotive collision
ent is in force for 14 years.
repair parts with more than 25 years of
The legislation, H.R. 1663, Pro- industry experience.
moting Automotive Repair, Trade and
Its product lines include: bumpers,
Sales Act (PARTS), seeks to redress that hoods, fenders, grilles, panels, lights,
radiators, condensers and related autosituation specifically by:
● Reducing the period from 14
motive parts used in repairing damaged
years to 2.5 years during which auto- vehicles.
mobile manufacturers can enforce U.S.
The company’s products are sold to
design patents on aftermarket generic automotive repair shops and indepencollision repair parts offered by suppli- dent distributors in more than 30 marers.
kets throughout the United States.
Additional information is available
● Initiate the 2.5-year enforcement
period beginning on the day the auto- at www.partschannel.com. or contact
motive model is first offered for sale in John M. Palumbo, (562) 654-3440; Email: johnp@partschannel.com ❑
any country.
● Permit alternative suppliers to
manufacture, test market and distribute A person isn’t educated unless he has
parts pre-sale without infringing upon learned how little he knows.
the design patents during the 2.5-year
Those who do not read have no advanenforcement period.
“Industry sources estimate that tage over those who cannot.
American consumers could face an
additional $1.5 billion in collision repair Economizing is easier when you are
broke.
FROM
THE FIELD
Bi-partisan support
develops for PARTS Act
(Continued from Page 12)
“For American drivers already feeling the squeeze from ongoing economic
uncertainty, the PARTS Act would help
to keep the costs of car repairs down by
safeguarding access to affordable, quality alternative
parts
following
collisions.”
“C om petition is
also
good
for businesses--it
ensures availability
as
these quality
alternative
collision re- Until a new exec is appair
parts pointed, Dan Morrissey
are available will oversee the activities
to consum- of the QPC.
ers at more
than 40,000 collision repair shops nationwide,” she added.
“Finally, competition is good for
the U.S. economy--it supports jobs nationwide. The alternative collision repair industry employs tens of thousands
of American workers in cities and small
towns across the country and has operations and distribution in all 50 states.
`“The Quality Parts Coalition applauds the bill sponsors for their leadership on this important consumer issue,”
said Daniel Morrissey, interim executive
director of the Quality Parts Coalition.
“We urge Congress to move forward with these bills to preserve a 60year tradition of free markets and fair
prices in the collision parts industry.”
In the past two months, the QPC
launched a “Write Congress” widget on
its website, www.KeepAutoPartsAffordable.org
This feature is powered by awardwinning e-advocacy company POPVOX
-- to encourage consumers and industry
leaders to tell Congress they support
these bills. ❑
Many a brilliant young man has his
BA and MA but he’s still living with PA
Pat others on the back, not yourself.
Body Language 14
BASF honors Micro Auto Paint
FROM
THE FIELD
family members have key positions in
the business, too.
Tammy Hicks Packer works on
the administrative side while John
Hicks, the oldest of the sons, works
closely with Kim on both the recycling
and distribution operations.
Ian accepting the BASF award,
Howard Hicks, Jr., president of Micro Auto Paint and Supply, said, “I am
very humbled to receive this award
from BASF. I work with a great team
of people and it’s because of their efL-R, Denise Kingstrom BASF; Steve Gruchala Micro Auto; Shane Sisk, Micro Auto; Kim forts that we were able to achieve this
Hicks with award, Micro Auto; Howard Hicks, Micro Auto; and Paul Whittleston, BASF,
milestone.”
met in Southfield, MI, for the official presentation of the company’s highest honor.
Paul Whittleston, vice president
of
Business
Management for BASF’s
CLEARWATER BEACH, FL-- Gulf Coast community.
Automotive
Refi
nish business added,
BASF’s Automotive Refinish business
“Micro Auto Paint and Supply has
“We value the true partnership that
awarded its 2012 ColorSource Distribu- continuously achieved year over year
BASF has developed with the Colortor of the Year Award to Micro Auto growth in their market,” stated Denise
Source community. Our annual event
Paint and Supply.
Kingstrom, strategic accounts manager
was a great way to share best practices
Based in Southfield, MI., Micro for BASF’s Automotive Refinish busiand we look forward to realizing conAuto Paint and Supply is a part of the ness in North America.”
tinued growth with our partners in
Micro family of companies which also
She added, “They provide excellent
2013 and beyond.”
includes Micro Rim products.
service and technical support to their
ColorSource PREMIER is a proThe business is operated by Kim customers, and they are also a great
gram designed by BASF exclusively for
Hicks, president, who manages from partner for BASF.”
single-line distributors of BASF refincorporate headquarters in Highland
Micro Auto Paint and Supply is
ish paints and coatings.
Park, a northern suburb of Detroit, as a family-owned business which was
To learn more about becoming a
well as Howard Hicks, Jr., who oversees founded by Howard Hicks, Sr., initially
ColorSource PREMIER distributor,
the paint and body supply division.
as a chrome bumper plating business in
please contact Denise Kingstrom at
Both Kim and Howard accepted the 1948.
denise.kingstrom@basf.com or 248award at BASF’s annual ColorSource™
It expanded in the early 1980s to
632-2420. ❑
Conference on April 19th in this central include a refinish business. Two other
ASA’s Denise Caspersen joins staff of National Autobody
GRAND PRAIRIE, TX--Sixteen
year industry veteran Denise Caspersen, most recently head of ASA’s collision
division, has joined Mike Dolabi on the
staff of the National Autobody Parts
Warehouse, Inc.
She begins her employment on
Monday, June 3, after a long period with
the Automotive Service Association
where she specialized both in areas of
statistical research as well as industry
engagement.
Her most recent efforts focused on
aftermarket parts and electronic parts
procurement. In 2012, Caspersen’s efforts with the ASA collision division
provided the industry with fact-based
analysis of the State Farm / PartsTrader
electronic parts procurement application in pilot.
These actions were well documented in various industry trade publications and during many public presenta-
tions, not the least of which was a panel
discussion last October, 2012, at NACE
in which Dolabi was a participant.
During Caspersen’s tenure with
ASA, as team lead for the association’s
collision division operations committee
volunteers, ASA held successful marches on Washington, D.C., created widely
used industry estimating tools and statistical industry reports, addressed multiple collision industry concerns and
provided insightful educational content
at many state and national events.
For these reasons and more,
Caspersen was hired to specialize in industry relations with a focus on project
management and strategic planning.
Dolabi and his team are recognized
as a leading autobody parts distribution
facility in the United States. National
Autobody Parts Warehouse is a 72,000
sq.-foot facility that has achieved NSF
distributor certification, is ISO9001 cer-
tified and an exclusive distributor for
TYC lighting, Depot lighting and Mirka
Body shop supplies.
Said Dolabi, “Having Denise join
our team is a perfect piece to our growth
puzzle. We are excited to have her skills,
knowledge, enthusiasm and experience
as the newest member of our staff.”
Added Dolabi, “Here at National
Autobody Parts, we believe in quality
and customer service. Bringing Denise
on board certainly affirms that. Our
segment of the aftermarket parts industry is growing, but we also have challenges.
“Now, with Denise and looking at
programs which can be strategically
developed, our people will definitely be
better equipped to grow and deal with
those challenges,” he said.
Dolabi’s reaching out to Caspersen
personifies his philosophy of being a
(Continued on Page 20)
Body Language 16
RODMAN ’RITES
It’s a bit of a miracle that I’m still here to write this column
HOUSTON--When it comes to the
story of my early March heart attack, I
don’t even know where to begin.
But I will say that based on what I
now know, and after piecing most of the
events of those two plus days, it’s a bit of
a miracle that I am even here.
On the morning of Tuesday, Mar. 5,
I got up at 6:30 with a terrible case of
indigestion--so I thought. The belches
and burps were enormous and uncontrollable and consistent.
Had I been in public instead of the
sanctity of my own bedroom, I would
have been embarrassed.
Making my way from the bedroom
to the living room and once ensconced
in my favorite chair to see if this would
make me feel better, I went as limp as a
dishrag.
It was all I could do to tell Myrna to
call 911.
Within minutes, I looked up and
there were seven blue-dressed EMT
members from two different but nearby
fire stations. I asked if they were having
a convention. That I remember.
I also remember the 5 mile ride
in the ambulance to the West Houston
Medical Center where I was not even
covered by a blanket. That was strange
especially because it was a cold morning.
The next two plus days are a blur. I
am told that thanks to the quick thinking of my cardiologist--who happens to
be at West Houston on Tuesday mornings--I was soon admitted to the operating room, for the most part totally bypassing any extended test-phase stay in
the ER.
Dr. Subroto Gangopadhyay--they
call him Dr. G for short--recognized my
predicament and an ultrasound of my
heart which he ordered confirmed it.
He, in fact, made every right decision in the next two days. Had he
zagged instead of zigged, I would not
be here. Had he turned left instead of
right, I would not be here.
Decision after decision, he got it
right, continually keeping Myrna in the
loop and gaining her permission for all
procedures..
Funny, even in those earliest moments and while under the influence of
anesthesia, I heard the three surgeons
discussing my case. Dr. G had been
joined by Dr. Uttah Tripathy, a specialist
in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery.
Also on the team was Dr. Khaja Moinuddeen, a heart surgeon, who I am told
did much of the heavy lifting.
As to what I was hearing, I thought
it sort of strange but I am told the brain
has that capacity to continue functioning even when anesthesia is applied.
At first, they discussed a splint and
a balloon procedure but there was semblance of a main artery there with which
to work.
Dr. G said I was, indeed a rare case.
I had what was termed a left arterial occlusion; In other words, my major artery
was not attached to any other part of the
heart so I was not getting any sufficient
blood supply.
He said that my condition was considered such a rarity that most heart
surgeons can go nearly a lifetime before
seeing such a case.
I never inquired as to how I could
even live with 80 percent of my heart
not functioning. On the next visit, I
will.
Once in the operating room and
with a shunt procedure eliminated, they
began the vascular procedures and the
resulting by-pass by lifting veins from
my legs.
By that time, it was reported back
to me days latter that I looked like the
Pillsbury dough boy, my entire body
was extremely swollen. Much of this
was due to the fact that when my heart
stopped pumping, other organs began
misfiring, too, and I soon loaded up
with fluid.
On the second day, they had to
re-open my chest. Fluid began flowing
around and outside the heart and my
vessel were developing clots. Don’t tell
me it’s no miracle that I am still alive.
Especially after what took place on the
third morning.
Dr. G reports he was leaving for
the second hospital at which he practices when he had a premonition that
all was not right with me. Although he
had been told by the ICU staff that I was
stable, he wanted to take a look for himself.
Again, lucky for me that he did,
too. Far from being stable. I was ready
to crash. There ensued two procedures
where the good doctor literally laid the
wood to me. He used the electric paddles to shock my heart.
The first time, it did not take. The
second time it did. He later told Myrna and me on a subsequent visit, there
would not have been a third time. The
chest cavity would not have been able to
take the current.
It’s one of the reasons he told me
later--while I was in rehab and he was
visiting--that I looked fairly good for a
guy who had just come from Ground
Zero.
Zero? That’s right, I was on my way
out the door when for whatever reason
our “Good Lord decided he would reject
my dance card and not allow me into his
kingdom at this time.”
Once re-admitted to ICU, I began
the long climb to recovery. They gave
me nothing to drink and I was thirsting for some ice tea. Don’t ask me why;
it’s far from my favorite beverage. I
couldn’t get comfortable in bed either as
I was ridden with anxiety so there were
nights when I slept in the over-stuffed
chair beside my bed.
For some reason, I was happier
there. I don’t think the nurses liked that
I was leaving the bed so often.
Actually, once in rehab, the very
first voice I heard was not Myrna’s. It
was Eileen Sottile’s. She had worked her
way into the ICU by claiming she was
my niece.
She brought me a stuffed, huggable
toy and flowers, too. After her visit, Myr
and she and another friend returned to
our home where she spent several hours
before having to depart for the airport.
Later, after becoming fully cognizant at all that had transpired, I was
truly grateful that she had made this
gesture.
This entire ordeal placed a lot of
stress on my wife. Fortunately for her,
my middle stepson Eugene Barinholtz
flew into Houston right away to not only
take care of his mom but to oversee my
progress at the hospital. He also continually communicated with the Board on
my condition.
Many of you know Eugene; he has
been our CPA for ABPA for the past 30
(Continued on Page 20)
Body Language 18
Automotive Aftermarket
In Automotive Aftermarket Parts
NSF Certified is the Mark of...
Performance
Quality
Fit
Safety
Buy with confidence from a dedicated market partner.
Insist on NSF Certified Parts
NSF International
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Email: autocert@nsf.org
Tel: (USA) 800-NSF-MARK (800-673-6275)
www.nsfautomotive.com
RODMAN ’RITES
(Continued from Page 18)
years; ever since I came onto the job.
And that for me, proved the biggest
rub. As I laid incapacitated, I could not
carry out my duties and responsibilities
and I felt this, too. Lucky for me--and
ABPA--these were my last months on
the job and the Board had already selected Ed Salamy as the new executive
director (see lead story, page 1)
He was quick to step into the breach
and hoisted a lot of responsibilities onto
his shoulders, especially as it pertained
to Charleston and the upcoming 33rd
annual convention.
For Myrna and me, it was to be our
swan song. Even had a roast of Rodman
dinner planned. Needless to say, the
roast was cancelled and we missed the
convention.
But we were also told we were
missed (see related story, page 8)
By the early dawn’s light of April
2nd, after a 12 day stint in the Rehab
center, I pronounced myself ready to
leave the hospital. It had already been
nearly a month and that was enough already.
Recuperating is a process. One
which must be taken day by day. While
my stamina sort of still sucks, I don’t
mind telling you that I did lose 30
pounds. Not only am I working to keep
Caspersen joins Dolabi’s operation
Caspersen
will, of course,
part of the greater good and
bring her many
taking action to make a posicontacts to her
tive impact for the whole of
new position.
the industry.
She
parThis can be seen in his
ticipates on the
current industry engageWomen’s Inments as he is involved in the
dustry Network
Auto Body Parts Association
(WIN) board
(ABPA) as a member of the
of directors and
board, the Quality Parts Cowas
recently
alition (QPC), the Parts Tradelected to vice
er Advisory Council, and is an
chair of WIN.
adviser to Northwood UniverAlong
with
sity in Cedar Hill, TX.
completing her
Mike is also a strong supchairmanship
porter of the CAPA program
of the Collision
and adheres to a purchas- At NACE 2012 in New Orleans last OcIndustry Elecing policy which emphasizes tober, Denise conducted a distributor
tronic Companel discussion as part of the educaiquality first and foremost.
merce Associatonal
seminars
for
ASA.
Dolabi, in fact, was retion (CIECA)
cently recognized with the
in 2012. She
ABPA Award of Excellence during
is also a recipient of the Akzo Nobel
their annual convention in early May in
Most Influential Women in the Industry
Charleston, S.C.. A few years previously,
Award which she received in 2008.
he was honored with the Al Cicioni FelShe has also been an active particilowship Award, ABPA’s highest annual
pant on various Collision Industry Conhonor.
ference (CIC) committees.
Caspersen, meanwhile, said, “It’s
Commented Caspersen, “When
exciting to join the National Autobody
I think of leading by example and inParts Warehouse staff at a time when
corporating innovation and inclusion,
the challenges of the marketplace are at
Mike and the National Autobody team
their highest tide in many years.
are top of mind. I’m looking forward to
“Having known Mike for a few
growing with Mike’s operation and addyears, his positive and forward thinking ing to their business success.”
approach to business is an inspiration to
Mike Dolabi can be reached at
me. Time and again, Mike has shown miked@nationalautobody.com or at
his efforts are about quality and custom- (800) 214-7222. Denise Caspersen can
er service and his expectations are about be reached at denisec@nationalautodoing what is right.”
body.com (800) 214-7222. ❑
(Continued from Page 16)
that weight off, I am determined to shed
at least another 10-12.
Tough assignment.
Almost as tough as having to gobble more than a dozen pills each morning to safeguard my health.
For me, it’s become a daily requirement of living.
As one of the surgeons in that operating room, Dr. Uttam Tripathy, said
to me on a follow-up visit, “Don’t look
back and think about where you were.
Think about the fact that you now have
a new lease on life. That’s what we were
able to give you. Enjoy it.”
I shall. And, I am. ❑
Silla Automotive selects
new ERP system
COMPTON, CA--Silla Automotive, LLC, has chosen the Infor Distribution SX.e platform as its new Enterprise
Resource Planning (ERP) system.
This new system is a total integrated solution that will support all functions of the company.
In addition, it will enhance the efficiency and accuracy of the company’s
supply chain from its factories to its distribution centers and local warehouses
located across the country.
Silla will use DSA as its project consultant and conduct the implementation
during the second quarter of 2013.
Mark Hallsman, president and
CEO of Silla stated; “This new ERP
system will provide our company with
state-of-the-art technology and it will
allow us to become more efficient and
enhance the quality of service we provide our customers.”
Silla, an associate member of the
Automotive Body Parts Association,
was founded in 1981 and operates from
36 branch warehouses nationwide.
The company outlets supply cooling and fuel systems replacement parts
to several different segments of the automotive aftermarket.
For more information, contact
Christopher Weller, vice president, finance & corporate controller, Silla Automotive, LLC, 1217 W. Artesia Blvd,
Compton, CA 90220. Phone: (800) 6241499; E-mail: cweller@sillaauto.com or
visit the company’s website at: www.sillaauto.com\ ❑
Body Language 20
A Uniform Approach to Quality Products assures Customers of
the KS Group a Consistent Standard for Service Excellence!
ISO 9001:2000 Certified--The International Mark of Excellence!
KSI-ASTRO AUTOMOTIVE
Franklin, MA ● Hampton, NH
Manchester, CT ● Albany, NY
1-800-527-8762
KSI TRADING CORP.
Passaic, NJ
1-800-229-1109
Pennsauken, NJ
●
1-888-677-7117
Oaks, PA
KSI-B Q WIDE
KSI-Unique
S. Plainfield, NJ
1-800-872-7331
Tucker, GA
1-800-420-3800
1-800-229-1109
KSI-CRASH & RUST-New York
KSI-RE-NU BODY SHOP SUPPLY
Brooklyn, NY
Piedmont, SC
Hanover, MD ● Fredericksburg, VA
1-800-810--5550
1-800-882-0058
Farmingdale, NY
1-800-222-1275
KSI-TROJAN AUTO CONNECTION
KSI-CRASH & RUST-Georgia
Atlanta, GA
1-877-277-2787
KSI-NEW YORK PARTS DEPT.
Brooklyn, NY
1-877-696-0222
Kalamazoo, MI
1-800-328-9232
1-800-368-9657
KSI Trading-Retail
Jamaica, NY
KSI TRADING CORP.
Warren, MI
●
Orlando, FL
1-888-311-9914
Miami, FL
1-800-586-0800
KSI Trading Corp.
KSI-UNIVERSAL AUTO BODY
Chicago, IL
Tampa, FL
1-800-997-9876
Headquarters
1-800-328-9232
1-800-244-2639
1-866-246-5678
100-A Wade Ave
S. Plainfield, NJ 07080
1-800-445-4540
(908) 745-7154 ● Fax (908) 754-7150
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● INSURER PROGRAM CHALLENGED: The Alliance
NATIONAL AUTOBODY PARTS
WHSE, INC.
2000 E. MAIN
GRAND PRAIRIE, TX 75050
972-263-1111
800-214-7222
www.nationalautobody.com
FOREIGN &
DOMESTIC PARTS
of Automotive Service Providers (AASP) of Massachusetts has asked that state’s insurance commissioner to
review its earlier ruling that a program being operated by
Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance doesn’t
violate state regulations. The Department of Insurance
approved MetLife’s “Platinum Auto Service” in 2011 even
though under the plan MetLife appraisers need not always physically inspect a damaged vehicle. The association believes that an appraiser relying on photos or
video of a damaged vehicle submitted by a shop should
not constitute the personal inspection of the vehicle by
the insurer that’s required under current state law (which
has essentially prevented direct repair programs from
operating in Massachusetts). If the approval of the program is not overturned, according to Peter Abdelmaseh,
the former executive director of AASP-Massachusetts,
“We could be operating pretty much in a DRP environment without any laws being changed.”
● CLASS ACTION DISMISSED: A U.S. appellate court
last week tossed out a $5 million class action lawsuit
filed against Geico by a Florida man who claimed the
insurer violated its contract with policyholders by deducting for betterment when paying for vehicle repairs. The
court ruled the policy language is unambiguous and allows for betterment deductions regardless of whether an
item is repaired or replaced under the policy.
● TWO MORE VIEWS OF PARTSTRADER: Speaking
WE SHIP OUR PRODUCTS FROM OUR
NEWLY EXPANDED 150,000 SQ. FT
WAREHOUSE TO ANYWHERE IN THE US.
OUR MISSION:
To provide the best service along with
the highest quality parts and accessories
at the most competitive prices
WHEN YOU THINK OF QUALITY AND
SERVICE, THINK OF NATIONAL
COMMITTED, QUALIFIED AND
KNOWLEDGEABLE SALES STAFF
at the Repairer Roundtable held in Phoenix earlier this
spring, several attendees said that based on their conversations with State Farm they felt it is now inevitable
that the insurer will move ahead with PartsTrader. Aaron
Schulenburg of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists, one of the associations who organized the meeting,
said he’s not so sure. “I think ‘resistance is futile’ would
be a position I would want to take, too, if I wanted to get
people who were resisting to stop resisting,” Schulenburg said. “’We’re moving forward with it regardless...’ is
a great approach to encourage people to stop questioning it. I just don’t know that that’s true. I would caution
anyone hearing those messaging points to take it with
a grain of salt.” Those looking for a shop with positive
things to say about PartsTrader can watch another video interview that, like another one last fall, was posted
to the ABRN website by Kristen Felder of CollisionHub
(CRASH 11/12/12); this one features Devin Boetsma of
Schut’s Body Shop in Hudsonville, Mich.
● Meanwhile, the Indiana Auto Body Association (IABA)
has invited Florida body shop owner and State Farm legal opponent Ray Gunder to spend a week in July traveling around that state to speak at association meetings.
“We are excited about getting Ray to come up here because shop owners need to see and hear from a shop
owner that they can take back control of their independence, and not compromise their business’ future,” Tony
Passwater, executive director of the IABA, said.
CRASH Network© is published by Image Output edited
by John Yoswick, P.O. Box 6091, Portland, OR 97228.
Call (503) 335-0393; Fax (503) 335-3999. E-mail: info@
crashnetwork com. or JYoswick@spiritone.com. For
special ABPA subscription rate or other information, visit
the website: www.CrashNetwork.com.
Body Language 22
FACT
Car companies, which already control more than 72 percent of the
collision repair parts market, are trying to grow their monopoly by
getting and enforcing design patents on collision repair parts against
alternative manufacturers and distributors. If this trend continues,
competition in the industry will cease to exist.
FACT
Members of the U.S. House and Senate introduced bipartisan legislation
called the “Promoting Automotive Repair, Trade, and Sales (PARTS) Act”
(H.R.1663/S. 780) to address this issue.
FACT
Nearly 80 organizations have joined together to
urge passage of the “PARTS Act.”
KNOW THE FACTS
“THE PARTS ACT”
PROTECTS COMPETITION AND FREEDOM OF CHOICE
Support efforts to preserve competition and keep your business running.
Contact Ed Salamy (etsgroupinc@gmail.com) of ABPA to join in. To learn more, visit www.KeepAutoPartsAffordable.org.
WE SUPPORT THE “PARTS ACT”
1-800-Radiator
A&A Bumper & Fender Ltd.
ABRA Autobody & Glass
Across America Collision Parts
Action Crash Parts
Advantage Crash Parts
Alliance of State Automotive
Aftermarket Associations
Allstate
American Insurance Association
At Pac Auto Parts, Inc.
Atlas Auto Body Parts
Auto Parts Industrial
Automotive Aftermarket
Association of the Carolinas
& Tennessee, Inc.
Automotive Aftermarket
Association Southeast
Automotive Aftermarket
Industry Association
Automotive Parts & Services
Association
Automotive Parts & Service
Association of Illinois
Automotive Body Parts
Association
Auto-Tech Plastics
AutoZone
Best Bumper & Parts
Best Fit
California/Nevada/Arizona
Automotive Wholesalers
Association
Chesapeake Automotive
Business Association
CHS Industries/Port City Bumper
Collins Collision Products
Collisions Parts Network
Competitive Enterprise Institute
Continental Auto Parts
Cornerstone Automotive
Cross Canada
D.A.R. Collision Parts
DEPO Auto Parts Corp.
D-G Custom Chrome
Eco Automotive Distributors
Empire Auto Parts
Felder’s Collision Parts
Florida Automotive Industries
Association (FAIA)
Fond du Lac Bumper Exchange
G&A Bumper Service
Genera/TYC
GP Automotive Parts, LLC
Jerry’s Bumper Sales
K.C. Auto Panel
K.S.I. Trading Corp.
Kentucky/Indiana Automotive
Wholesalers Association
Key Parts Inc.
Keystone Automotive
LKQ Corporation
MAACO Franchising, Inc.
Maximum Auto Industry
Maxzone Auto Parts Corp.
Michigan Automotive Parts
Association
Micro Rim/Micro Platers
National Association of Mutual
Insurance Companies
National Autobody Warehouse
National Glass Association
Nationwide Insurance Company
New York State Automotive
Aftermarket Association
NSF International
Ohio Valley Automotive
Aftermarket Association
Parts Channel
Premier Flexipac
Property Casualty Insurers
Association of America
Quality Parts Coalition
RetireSafe
Richmond Bumper
Roberts Wholesale Body Parts
Safelite AutoGlass
Salt Lake Chrome Plating
San Jose Trading Company
Sherman & Associates
Superior Collision Part
The Coalition for Auto Repair
Equality
Washington Automotive
Wholesalers Association
Wisconsin Automotive
Parts Association
LEGISLATIVE FLASH
May, 2013
IN SESSION
There are 26 states, DC and US in Regular Session. There are two states in Special Session.
In Regular Session:
Alabama, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maine,
Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North
Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Vermont,
Wisconsin
In Special Session:
California, Washington
CONVENING:
No Regular Sessions are scheduled to
convene this week. No Special Sessions
scheduled to convene.
IN RECESS:
Arkansas until 05/17/2013
New Hampshire until 05/22/2013
FEDERAL: QPC Patent Bills Introduced!
PARTS Act –- Promoting Automotive
Repair and Trade Sales--H.R. 1663 and
S. 780.
Good news from the Quality Parts
Coalition – The PARTS Act was introduced in both the House and the Senate
with bi-partisan support on April 23,
2013!
This is something everyone can be
proud of as this is rarely done in this
fashion.
H.R. 1663 sponsors are Representatives Issa (R-CA) and Lofgren (D-CA)
with Senators Hatch (R-UT) and Whitehouse (D-RI) sponsoring S. 780.
The QPC also held a board meeting on April 23, and a member coalition
meeting on April 24th.
The QPC continues to hold ongoing, bi-weekly Government Affairs
teleconferences to keep its members informed on its progress.
ABPA encourages its members to
visit www.keepautopartsaffordable.org
and click on the ‘Support the Bill’ button to voice your support.
Right to Repair — We continue to
monitor for reintroduction of the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act
during this year’s Congress.
Visit www.righttorepair.org to
learn more about this issue and ask your
Pocket pixs
They called it a boys’ night
out but in truth, it was a surprise visit to Stan and Myrna
Rodman at their Houston
home. Showing up unexpectedly were (l-r) Kim Wood
and Lynn Peyton both of
whom accompanied Chris
Northup (right), coordinator
of the Wednesday, late May
trip, to Texas. All friends from
their earliest days of ABPA,
they wanted to see Stan after his operation.
Bottom left, Eugene Barinholtz and his wife Kelly
did extra duty during the
Charleston convention and
here they are pictured in front of the fireplace at the
Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon where Tong Yang’s
Friday night off premise event was held.
legislators for their support.
STATES:
Maine HP 539 - Motor Vehicle Owners Right to Repair. A work session
was held on April 30, 2013 and it was
decided to carry the bill over to next
session. This was the goal for the aftermarket industry as AAIA and CARE are
currently working with the auto alliance
on a compromise that may not require
legislation going forward.
Michigan HB 635 - Aftermarket Parts
Prohibition. House Bill 4635 was introduced on April 30, 2013 in the Insurance
Committee. HB 4635 would prohibit
the use of aftermarket parts and is not
currently scheduled for consideration.
Specifically, insurers would be prohibited from specifying:
1. The use of an aftermarket crash
part to replace a structural component
2. Any part that would affect the
structural integrity or airbag timing of
the automobile
3. The use of an aftermarket crash
part that is not certified by a national
testing board to guarantee quality, fit
and crashability
4. The use of a particular vendor
to secure a part or materials for repairs
Maryland HB 1375 – This legislation, brought forth by the Washington
Metropolitan Auto Body Association
(WMABA), required written consent
for the use of aftermarket parts for repairs made on a vehicle that is within
the first five years of the date of manufacturer.
Industry opposition held the bill up
long enough to kill it in committee and
the legislative session has adjourned for
the year. ❑
At right, after more than 30 years in which Stan Rodman introduced more than a dozen members of ABPA
and the former BRANA into the ABPA Hall of Fame,
designated by the Founders Award, Rodman received
the same honor from the Board in Charleston. He
was not there to personally accept the award or designation but his stepson, Eugene Barinholtz, spoke on
his behalf. When Rodman received this handsome
plaque via UPS, he admits he was totally moved by
the gesture and thanked each of the Board members
for their consideration.
Body Language 24
CHARLESTON-PICTORIAL REVIEW
Top left, Mike Dolabi who
won re-election for a third
term talks with former and
longtime ABPA president
Bill Singleterry,(right); Center left, Arlene Meyers celebrates her don’t ask birthday
with an appropriate piece of
cake and one candle; Top
right, Eric Taylor thinks he
can measures up against
this English sentry; an easy
enough task being the guy
is a real dummy; Bottom left,
Mitchell Javaheri (left) of
NY’s ABC Parts Int’l is with
Jeff Chen at the Tong Yang
sponsored dinner on Friday
night at the Old Exchange;
Bottom right, there’s nothing
petty about this fish caught
by Bob Petty who decided
to angle while many others
were golfing.
Body Language 26