Congratulations to the Executive Committee of the ARA Annual Convention. That convention was one of the best I’ve witnessed.
The association elected Jonathan Morrow as President of ARA at this convention. Jonathan and family owns M&M Auto Parts located in Virginia. Jonathan completed his master’s degree in business administration from Liberty University. Jonathan succeeds David Gold, our past President of ARA, who I have the pleasure to call my friend.
One of the best parts of the convention was a round-table discussion lead by Scott Robertson and Shannon Nordstrom. It was a special treat to witness and learn from them. Fantastic segment! Don’t miss next year’s round table.
It’s truly my pleasure to reveal results of two people who were selected and recognized for top awards because of their service within the industry. The winner of the President’s Award was awarded to Jeff Schroder for his outstanding and continuous leadership coupled with his never-ending compassion to keep everyone focused on selling more quality, recycled parts. Jeff’s brother, Roger Schroder, won “Member of the Year.” Roger serves, and has served on many committees. Jeff is President and Roger is Vice President of Car-Part.com, both are Co-Founders of Car-Part.com.
Shan McMillon of Cocoa Auto Salvage Inc., located in Florida, was named the Regional Director of the Year. Nordstrom’s Automotive was awarded the Car Award for this year. If you ever travel near South Dakota, visit Shannon and his family to see first-hand how perfect pre planning can play a big part in the layout of a stellar facility. Nordstrom’s 2.0 is worth the trip.
Fred Iantorno of CEICA won the Apple Award and the Gold Seal member of the Year went to Counselman Automotive Recycling. C.A.R. has two locations in Alabama.
I’m proud to announce that the Lifetime Honorary Award went to Gary Bevell. One of the kindest, sincere, and true gentlemen of this industry, Gary is home-based in Goldsboro, North Carolina. Gary started Wayne’s Auto Salvage back in 1969. Mr. Bevell personally recruited 56 new members to ARA in one year.
The Chapter of the Year award went to Rhode Island under the leadership and tutelage of a great guy, Ron Mathews. Ron has helped a lot of recyclers get better. He is a true gift to our industry.
Each of these award winners deserved special recognition for their service because they are special. That’s why it’s my distinct pleasure to congratulate them for a job well-done.
Congratulations, to all of you! See you next time.
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D.J. Says, 2820 Andover Way, Woodstock, GA 30189
D. J. Harrington is an author, journalist, seminar leader, international trainer, and marketing consultant. He works primarily with customer service personnel, and his clients include such world-class companies as General Motors, DuPont, Caterpillar, and Damon Corporation. He may be reached at 800-352-5252. E-mail: dj@djsays.com. 52 weeks a year, we are as close as your telephone.