ASA Annual Business Meeting
and 'Taking the Hill' Day

Posted 3/9/2011
By Jerry Burns, AAM, Chairman

It's time to start making plans for ASA's annual business meeting at the Gaylord National in the Washington, D.C., area May 9-11, 2011. In conjunction with the annual meeting, we will wrap up the gathering by participating in "Taking the Hill" Day May 11.

The annual meeting is the perfect opportunity for ASA members to come together to network and get current updates of association business. Members are also encouraged to attend open meetings of the ASA board of directors and affiliate assembly. Ron Pyle, ASA president, will deliver a state-of-the-association address.

I will be passing the gavel on to our new ASA chairman for 2011-2012. As a member, you will receive valuable knowledge from the various meetings you attend.

"Taking the Hill" day has become a priority for many of us in the industry. As ASA members, we can make a difference by speaking with our respective state legislators on Capitol Hill to help them understand issues important to our industry. Our physical presence on Capitol Hill speaks volumes to our policymakers. It shows our commitment as business owners as well as our commitment to consumers in our industry. This is an experience you will want to participate in.

Mark these important dates on your calendar and register now to attend on www.ASAshop.org. Some activities and scheduling details are still being finalized, so please log onto www.ASAshop.org for current updates as they become available. I look forward to seeing you in Washington, D.C.

I know it's only March, however it's not too early to start thinking about Automotive Service and Repair Week (ASRW), the home of NACE and CARS. It's the perfect time to mark the dates, and there's big news for 2011: This year the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., will host ASRW/NACE/CARS Oct. 5-8. This change in venue comes in response to the input you have given us and the interest you have expressed in having venue options. Thank you for your interest and participation.

It's springtime! Enjoy!