Dateline: NH

November, 2004
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
Inside this Issue
2004 NHADA Leadership Retreat
• Rich Lovering New Chairman •
pages 3-4
Lisa Lavoie Joins NHADA
page 6
Important Environmental
Information
pages 6 and 8
ADPAC and DEAC Contributors
page 10
DMV Key Rules/Regulations
page 11
From Your NADA Director
pages 12-13
AUTOCAP Celebrates 30 Years
page 13
Flood-Damaged Cars
page 14
WCT Claims/Compliance Corners
pages 16-18
Special Anthem Offers
page 18
Larry Foss Receives 2005 TMQDA Nomination
Louanne Theriault, Director of Communications
N
HADA is pleased to announce
the selection of Larry Foss of
Foss Motors, Inc. in Exeter as
the 2005 TIME Magazine Quality
Dealer Award (TMQDA) winner from
New Hampshire. The TMQDA
program calls attention to new-car
dealers across the country who have
demonstrated exceptional
performance in their dealerships,
combined with distinguished
community service. Without a doubt,
Larry Foss fulfills the above criteria!
In 1961, Foss Motors was founded by
Larry’s father. Larry began working
in the dealership in 1967 and is
proud that three of his children are
involved in the family business today.
When asked what has been the most
rewarding in his retail automotive
career, Larry stated, “The most
rewarding aspect of this business is,
after taking over management of the
dealership from my father, to have
been able to continue to have it grow
successfully to the point where my
children are now actively involved in
all aspects of the dealership.
Watching them learn the business
from the ground up, as I did, and
TMQDA - Continued on page 4
Family Health Statements
page 20
*** New Site ... Now Live ***
Important Flu Information
pages 21 and 22
NO PASSWORDS – EASY NAVIGATION
N
www.nhada.com
H
A
W
W
D
A
W
.
.
C
O
M
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
2004-2005 NHADA OFFICERS
In Memoriam
Chairman
Rich Lovering
Vice Chairwoman
Susan McFarland Moynahan
Treasurer
Peggy Proko
Secretary
Dan Prior
President
Daniel B. McLeod
Kevin P. Bradley
2004-2005 NHADA DIRECTORS/DISTRICTS
Jay Alosa, Heavy-Duty Trucks
Frank Brady, Seacoast
Brad Brooks, North Country
Andy Costello, Nashua
Kevin Donovan, Strafford
Chuck Dupler, Monadnock
Donna Hosmer, Connecticut River
Doug Grant, Manchester/93 Corridor
David Hammer, Nashua
Mark Hesler, Motorcycles
Paul Holloway, Honorary
Rich Lovering, Concord
David McGreevy, Lakes Region
Susan Moynahan, Exeter
NHADA mourns the loss of longtime member dealer Kevin P.
Bradley of Bradley Motors in Hudson. Kevin and his wife,
Mary, along with their sons, have been loyal supporters of
the Association and its programs and events for many
years. Our sympathies go out to the Bradley family.
Memorial donations may be made to the Community
Hospice House, 210 Naticook Road, Merrimack, NH 03054.
New Members
Larry Phillips, Non-Franchised
Jeff Platek, Manchester/93 Corridor
Personal Auto USA L.L.C.
Robert James Automotive
214 Rockingham Road
Londonderry, NH 03053
Owner: John K. Buck
59 Quaker Lane
Dover, NH 03820
Owner: Robert Marggraf
NADA DIRECTOR
Jack Tulley, Nashua
Your Ideas Are Wanted!
This publication is designed to provide accurate
and authoritative information in regard to the
subject matters covered. In publishing this
newsletter, neither the authors nor the publisher are
engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other
professional services. If legal advice or other expert
assistance is required, the services of a competent
professional should be sought.
Advertisements appearing in
Dateline: NH do not indicate
a specific endorsement by NHADA
of the products or services unless
the NHADA endorsement symbol
appears with the advertisement.
Endorsed by
NHADA
P
lease complete the survey enclosed in this
issue and let us know what seminar topics
you would like to have addressed at
future workshops.
Suggestion
Box
Published monthly at Bow, New Hampshire,
by the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers
Association. Mailing address: P. O. Box 2337,
Concord, NH 03302-2337, 603-224-2369/
800-852-3372.
STAFF
Publisher
Editorial Director
Managing Editor/Design
and Layout
Typographers
Donna
Advertising Manager
Photographer
NHAEF Center for Automotive Education and Training
Rich Lovering
Daniel B. McLeod
Louanne Theriault
Louanne Theriault,
Sopper, Lisa Lavoie
Patti Harmon
Michael Rosenblum
ADVERTISING RATES
Full Page
1/2 Page
1/3 Page
1/6 Page
page 2
Mail or fax the survey as directed or e-mail your
suggestions to either Brendan Perry at
[email protected] or Jean Conlon at
[email protected].
www.nhada.com
$350
$200
$150
$100
Upcoming Seminars – REGISTER ON-LINE (www.nhada.com)
November 3
November 9 & 10
November 11
November 16
November 18
December 7
December 14
December 15
Small Quantity Generator Training (for Hillsborough & Cheshire Counties)
Professional Selling in Today’s Market (beginner/intermediate)
Negotiating for Gross (experienced salespeople and sales managers)
Wage & Hour Compliance Q & A
Small Quantity Generator Training (for Hillsborough & Cheshire Counties)
Overview of F & I Laws, Regulations and Selling Techniques
Using Technology for Profit Retention
Small Quantity Generator Training (for Hillsborough & Cheshire Counties)
Seminar dates are subject to change. Please contact Brendan Perry or Jean Conlon
at 800-852-3372 for additional information.
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
2004 NHADA Leadership Retreat
Changing of the Guard
Daniel B. McLeod
O
n October 21 – 22, 2004, 29 volunteer leaders of NHADA
participated in the 2004 NHADA Leadership Retreat held at the
Wentworth by the Sea. This year’s Retreat marked the eleventh
consecutive year NHADA has gathered its leaders to discuss the status of
NHADA and its affiliates and to plan for the future. “NHADA strategic
planning occurs on an annual basis when we collectively get together with
Board members from NHADA, the Workers’ Compensation Trust, the
Education Foundation, and NHAD Services,” stated Chairman David
McGreevy. The 2004 Retreat generated many pertinent issues that will be
taken up by the Board of Directors of NHADA and its affiliates with the goal
of improving the value provided to NHADA members by NHADA.
(L-R) Richard Lovering and David McGreevy
Senator Judd Gregg stopped by the Leadership Retreat to meet with the NHADA Leadership. (L-R) Chairman
David McGreevy, NHADA President Dan McLeod, DEAC State Chairman Bob Grappone, Senator Gregg, NADA
Director Jack Tulley, and NHADA Vice Chairman Rich Lovering
New NHADA Web site Launched
I knew we had something really good, and I was extremely pleased with the
positive reaction of our NHADA volunteer leaders at the Retreat. Director of
Communications Louanne Theriault has spent many months on the redesign,
and significant improvements were made to the www.nhada.com Web site.
Louanne’s presentation of nhada.com at the Retreat was enthusiastically
received and applauded for its ease of navigation and wealth of information.
One of our primary goals as an Association, representing the interests of our
590+ members, is to constantly improve our ability to communicate. I am
certain that we have greatly enhanced our end with the new Web site. Now, we
need you to get on-line and find out for yourself what a great multi-faceted
tool www.nhada.com is for your business. I now welcome you, as a member of
NHADA, to utilize www.nhada.com to your best advantage.
November, 2004
On October 22, NHADA Chairman
David McGreevy of McGreevy BuickPontiac-GMC/McGreevy Mazda
handed the gavel over to incoming
Chairman Richard Lovering of
Lovering Volvo/Lovering Mitsubishi.
The Board stated its appreciation to
David McGreevy during his term. “I
know we all appreciate the leadership
that David brought to this Board,
and I fully intend to do the best job I
can possibly do during my tenure as
Chairman. I look forward to the
challenges, and I look forward to
working with all of the talented
members of the NHADA Board of
Directors,” stated Rich Lovering.
NHADA Elects New
Vice Chairwoman
Sue Moynahan of McFarland Ford/
Hampton Ford-Hyundai was elected
Vice Chairwoman of the NHADA
Board of Directors. Sue has a lengthy
history with NHADA, having
previously served for five years on the
Board of Trustees of the Workers’
Compensation Trust, including the
position of Chairwoman.
Retreat - Continued on page 4
page 3
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
TMQDA - Continued from page 1
Retreat - Continued from page 3
watching them practicing the values that my father instilled when founding
the business 43 years ago, is extremely satisfying. Through three generations,
our dealership has been able to change and grow with the times and still
adhere to the strict code of business ethics my father set forth.”
Aside from the many years of volunteer service on the NHADA Board of
Directors, the NHAEF Board of Directors, and the Automotive Consumer
Action Panel (AUTOCAP), Larry has been active in his local dealer association
(Exeter Area New Car Dealers Association) and the Exeter Area Chamber of
Commerce as well as with the New England Dodge Dealers Advertising
Association, the New England Chrysler Plymouth Advertising Association, and
the New England Chrysler Plymouth Dodge Dealer Council. He has received
numerous factory awards, including the 2003 Chrysler Corporate Leadership
Award and the Chrysler Financial Manager of Distinction Award, and also
received the Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce 2002 Business of the Year
Award.
Larry has been extremely active in various civic and community activities over
the years and has made donations too numerous to mention. Two activities of
which he is most proud are serving on the Board of Directors of the Exeter
Area New Car Dealers Annual Golf Tournament, which raises money to
support children’s charities in the area, and the organization of a raffle where
he donated a brand-new 2002 Prowler that raised $45,000 for the Seacoast
Chapter American Red Cross in the wake of the September 11 tragedies. Larry
stated, “It was very satisfying to be involved in a local event in response to a
national tragedy.”
Larry summed up the importance of receiving this prestigious TIME Magazine
Quality Dealer Award this way: “As a business person, I don’t measure our
success only by looking at the bottom line. I like to think that my business has
made a positive difference in our community; and to have other auto dealers
applaud our efforts, brings a great deal of pride and satisfaction.”
The TMQDA awards will be presented to individual state winners at the
opening business session of the NADA Convention in New Orleans on
January 29. Following this recognition, the finalists will be named; and then
the TIME Magazine Quality Dealer of the Year will be honored.
NHADA is proud and fortunate to have Larry Foss as its state winner and as a
New Hampshire dealer, and we wish him the best of luck going into the finals.
www.nhada.com
ew
Two N es
r
Featu
page 4
• On-Line Purchasing (stock items)
• On-Line Seminar Registrations
(click on Events Calendar – see “Please
forward to key personnel!” feature)
NHADA Elects New Secretary
Dan Prior of AutoFair Group was
elected by the NHADA Board to serve
as Secretary of the NHADA Board of
Directors and, as a result of recent
Bylaws changes, will have voting
authority. Dan is no stranger to the
NHADA Board, having previously
served two three-year terms as a
Board member.
NHADA Elects New State
DEAC Chairman
At the same meeting, Bob Grappone
of Grappone Auto Junction was
elected to serve as the DEAC State
Chairman succeeding David
Philipkoski of David Ford Lincoln
Mercury. Bob knows that he has large
shoes to fill because of the leadership
and success David had as Chairman.
Bob now heads the New Hampshire
DEAC team, consisting of NADA
Director Jack Tulley of Tulley BuickPontiac-GMC-BMW-MazdaVolkswagen, NHADA Chairman Rich
Lovering, and myself. The DEAC
team is responsible for raising DEAC
dollars from New Hampshire dealers
and for disbursing these dollars to our
federal legislators. “The October
Phone-A-Thon was very successful
and is held for a very good cause. We
brought in over $15,000 that day
with a total expected of over $20,000
from pledges,” stated Bob Grappone.
This year marked the addition of Bob
Grappone, Dan Prior, Frank Brady,
Scott Holloway, and Larry Foss to
The President’s Club. DEAC is our
federal PAC and has, year in and year
out, proven to be extremely beneficial
to dealers in New Hampshire and the
rest of the country.
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
November, 2004
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
page 5
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
Lisa Lavoie Joins NHADA
N
HADA is pleased to welcome Lisa Lavoie as
Membership Coordinator and Administrative
Assistant. She will also represent NHADA as our
AUTOCAP Coordinator. Lisa replaces Stacy Bull who
departed last September. Lisa brings over 15 years’
experience as a Customer Service Specialist and
Administrative Assistant in the financial services industry.
She lives in Concord with her husband and son.
Attention: Dealers in
Hillsborough and Cheshire
Counties
Don’t Worry – NHADA
is Here to Help!
(with your SQG
self-certification forms)
Dan Bennett, NHADA Environmental Specialist
The GET IN GEAR Eight Week Fitness Challenge ends on
November 6. Receive free gear and be eligible for raffle
prizes! Do not forget to send in your progress charts to NHAD
Services, Inc. – Insurance Division, P. O. Box 2337, Concord,
NH 03302-2337. If you have any questions, please contact
Jean Conlon at 800-852-3372 or at [email protected].
B
y now, most dealers who are
registered with the New
Hampshire Department of
Environmental Services (NHDES) as
Small Quantity Generators (SQG) of
hazardous waste and are located in
Hillsborough or Cheshire Counties
have received their self-certification
forms in the mail from the NHDES.
Judging by the number of calls I am
receiving lately concerning the forms,
it is a lot of you. If, for some reason,
you have not received these forms, or
this does not sound familiar, it is
worth asking your office or service
manager if the forms came to the
facility directed to that individual; or
contact me and I can be of assistance
in verifying and tracking them down.
At first glance, the two forms may
appear daunting. The forms that were
sent are required to be completed and
resubmitted with $240 (if applicable)
by January 1, 2005.
Have no fear when approaching the
completion of these forms! NHADA
has set up three separate training
classes to assist with the
understanding, meeting of the
requirements, and completion of the
forms (November 3, November 18,
and December 15). These classes will
be around two hours in length (some
SQG - Continued on page 8
page 6
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
November, 2004
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
page 7
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
Free Tip Cards to all Members Promoting Regular Vehicle Service
and the Environmental Benefit
Dan Bennett, NHADA Environmental Specialist
N
HADA, in cooperation with,
and as part of our compliance
partnership with the New
Hampshire Department of
Environmental Services, is proud to
offer to all member facilities “Drive
Cleaner. Breathe Easier.” tip cards
(see image to the right).
These free tip cards and stand to hold
them are a perfect item for a facility’s
customer lounge or service and parts
counter. The tip cards promote
regular service and maintenance and
the multiple ways that paying
attention to a vehicle’s operation can
actually have a great environmental
benefit.
The tip cards were designed, paid for,
and put together by a consortium of
groups to show how environmental
benefit and good car maintenance
(i.e., paying attention to check engine
lights, regular tune-ups, and routine
tire rotation) and driving habits can
save consumers money and improve
the environment. In addition to all
the other stated benefits, the cards are
a great common sense sales tool!
If you or your facility would like to
receive a free stand and tip cards or
have questions and would like more
information concerning this program
and offer, you may order them online at www.nhada.com by clicking
on Safety and Environmental
Services, Environmental, then Free
Environmental Supplies; or you may
contact me at [email protected]
or at 800-852-3372.
page 8
SQG - Continued from page 6
facilities may be done sooner). The sessions will be designed to review the
forms from an industry-specific view and aim for the completion of a facility’s
forms by the end of the session.
Multiple mailings and sign-up forms have been sent to, and handed out, at
facilities by NHADA road staff advertising the sessions. If you have not seen
these forms, would like additional copies, or have questions concerning the
sessions or forms, please feel free to give me a call at 800-852-3372 or e-mail
me at [email protected]. You may also register for these sessions on-line by
going to our newly designed Web site, www.nhada.com, and then clicking on
the Events Calendar.
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
November, 2004
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
page 9
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
2004 ADPAC
Contributors
(as of 10-25-04)
Red Abbott
Stephen Ames
Jack Benson
Gary Blake
Norman Boucher
David Cushman
Kevin Donovan
Chuck Dupler
William Fenton
Larry Foss
Garry Gerossie
Frank Goodwin
Gregory & Douglas Grant
Robert Grappone
Paul Holloway
Scott Holloway
Paul Husson, Jr.
Jeff Kantor
Charles Knight
Mike Korpi
Rich Lovering
Ronney Lyster
Greg Maine
Greg Marino
Bob Mariano
John McGonagle
Ed McNamara
Edward Medlyn
Doug Miles
Gerard (Monty) Montembeault
Susan McFarland Moynahan
Larry & Mike Phillips
Mark Piekarski
Kenneth Plante
Steven Plante
Dan Prior
Paul Prunier
Scott Reed
Edward Reilly, III
Dennis Roberts, Sr.
Robert Rountree
Jonathan Sargent
Jack Tulley
Joseph Walier, III
James Walker, Jr.
Anthony Waterman
Daniel Weed
William Weiss, Jr.
Michael Wentworth
da.com
a
h
n
.
w
ww
Be sure
to check the
“SPECIAL ALERTS”
box on the Home
Page regularly for
important notices,
forms specials,
contests, surveys,
and more!
2004 DEAC
Contributors
(as of 10-25-04)
David Allen
Jay Alosa
Joseph Alosa, Sr.
Mary Beth Alosa
Robert Baranowski
Jack Benson
Gary Blake
Thomas Bogar
Richard Bournival
Frank Brady *
Bradford Brooks
Eddie Cantin
Andy Costello
Ron Currier
David Cushman
Charles DiPrizio, Jr.
Kevin Donovan
Dan Enxing
Richard Fecteau
William Fenton
Dennis Finn
Larry Foss *
Paul Gaudet, Sr.
John Gimbel
Paul Gladstone
Robert Grappone *
Jens Griem
David Hammer
Paula Hiuser
Paul Holloway *
Scott Holloway *
Emmett Horgan
Paul Hurlbert
Peter Irwin
Mary Kopp
Leonard Korpi
Mike Korpi
Robert Lajoie
John Lambert
Linda Lovering *
Rich Lovering *
Roger Lovering
Ronney Lyster
Robert Macdonald
Peter Mans
Victoria Marcinkevich
Bob Mariano
Jay McFarland
David McGreevy
Edward Medlyn
Allen Mello
Douglas Miles
Kevin Milligan
Eva Montembeault
Gerard (Monty) Montembeault
Susan McFarland Moynahan
David Philipkoski
Kenneth Plante
Jeff Platek
Richard Poulin
Dan Prior *
Peggy Proko
Peter Proko
Deborah Dube Reed
Edward Reilly, III
Dennis Roberts, Sr.
Charles Rocha, III
John Sawyer
Richard Shulman
Howard Siegel
Gary Singer
Thomas Thayer
Jack Tulley *
James Walker
Michael Wentworth
Andi White
Larry White
James Wilt
David Yanofsky
* Indicates President’s Club
page 10
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
DMV Key Rules/Regulations
Daniel B. McLeod
T
he following is a refresher on some key rules/regulations enforced by
the Division of Motor Vehicles:
Saf-C 2002.03 Lost or Stolen Plates. A person governed by these rules shall
immediately report a lost or stolen registration plate or temporary plate to the
local police department. The person shall also immediately notify the
commissioner, in writing on form DSMV 23, of the loss or theft and the police
department which was notified.
Saf-C 2002.04 Inspection of Records. Any and all records required by
statute or these rules to be maintained shall be available for inspection by the
commissioner or his agent during regular business hours at the established
place of business.
Saf-C 2003.03 Use of Retail Vehicle Dealer Plates.
Saf-C 2003.04 Temporary Plates.
(i) No dealer shall issue a temporary
plate or registration to a vehicle
unless:
(1) The vehicle is in compliance with
all New Hampshire inspection
requirements; and
(2) An inspection sticker is affixed to
the windshield.
FACT: NHADA members
generate over 25 percent of
retail sales in New Hampshire.
(a) A dealer shall know the location and user of each dealer plate as well as the
vehicle to which it is assigned.
(b) Dealer plates shall be displayed on the rear of a vehicle on the space
provided by the manufacturer.
(c) Dealer plates shall not be displayed on a vehicle which is the personal
property of any person other than the dealer, or in the case of a corporation,
the dealership’s principal unless the vehicle is consigned to the dealership for
sale, and is evidenced by a written consignment agreement.
(d) Pursuant to RSA 261:111, a dealer may loan or levy a fee for the use of
dealer-registered vehicle only when such vehicle is being operated by a
customer whose vehicle is being serviced or repaired by the dealer and such use
is for the customer’s convenience.
(e) Vehicles owned by a dealer shall not be exempt from state inspection
requirements, unless an exemption is specified in RSA 266:1, VIII.
(f) Loaning, renting or utilizing plates unless otherwise provided by these rules
or statute, shall be prohibited.
(g) The windshield shall not be obstructed by windshield advertising while
being driven upon a way;
(h) For the purposes of RSA 261:111, II, “marked not for hire” means that
the driver side and passenger side doors are marked “not for hire” with
lettering 3 inches high or greater.
(i) Retail vehicle dealer plates shall only be used as specified in RSA 261:111.
Any other use shall be considered misuse for the purposes of RSA 261:177 and
RSA 261:61.
November, 2004
page 11
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
From Your NADA Director
Jack Tulley
D
ealers have sometimes found
it an uphill task to convince
the media and the public
that we are the “good guys.” NADA is
working hard to disprove the old
stereotypes, and one key effort was
the celebration of “Booster Seat
Safety Month” in October where
dealers hosted safety seat events
across the U.S. to educate parents and
make children safer.
The kickoff event on Sept. 23 in
Houston went so well that guest
speaker Dr. Jeffrey Runge,
Administrator of the National
Highway Traffic Safety
Administration, enthused, “NHTSA’s
safety partnership with NADA is the
most effective we’ve ever had.” Nearly
500 people attended, including
NADA Vice Chairman Jack Kain,
dealer host Carroll Smith, Safe Kids
safety seat evaluators, and state and
local law enforcement officials.
Media outlets, including CNN,
Univision and the Houston Chronicle,
were present to document the event,
during which seats in more than 100
vehicles were inspected. See the event
photos at www.nada.org. Send digital
photos of, and info on, your safety
seat event to Rahnesha White at
[email protected], or call
703-760-7562 to help us generate
national publicity.
page 12
• In addition to hosting an event,
NADA dealers can show America that
we wear the “white hats” by teaching
middle school students about vehicle
financing options and the responsible
use of credit as volunteers in Junior
Achievement’s “Personal Finance”
program. Go to www.nada.org/
finance for resources, and volunteer
with your local J.A. office at
www.ja.org.
More positive publicity for dealers
includes:
• NADA’s 24-page insert in Time
magazine’s November 8 issue
focusing on vehicle financing
education and dealers’ positive
contributions to their communities.
• A full-page ad for the National
Automobile Dealers Charitable
Foundation in the October 4 edition
of Automotive News. To contribute to
one of the Foundation’s programs, go
to www.nada.org and scroll down to
click on NADA Charities.
Due in part to unfair and untrue
representations of dealers, our
industry is one of the most heavily
legislated and regulated. Be aware of
the laws, rules, and regulations that
affect your business through:
• The NADA Convention’s
Regulatory Outreach Booth, with
representatives from eight different
government agencies available on the
exhibit floor to talk to dealers and
answer or refer questions.
• Ensure your dealership is in
compliance by checking NADA’s
regulatory compliance chart,
newly posted to www.nada.org/
regulations. Also new: Search
NHADA will host a very elegant
“Dessert Reception” for New
Hampshire dealers attending
the NADA Convention. The event
will be held at the historic
Beauregard-Keyes House on
Chartres Street in New Orleans
on Sunday, January 30, from
9:00 – 11:00 p.m. Watch for
your personal invitation!
government affairs information
on-line by topic, government agency,
or dealership department.
• NADA’s Economic Impact Reports
– now available for each state –
posted on www.nada.org; click on
Government Affairs, then scroll down
to Economic Impact Reports.
National information is also
available. Show these impressive stats
to your local and federal legislators
when you invite them to your
dealership, for example, during your
safety seat event or other events.
With Congress back in session, be sure
to tell your lawmakers your views on
these key NADA issues:
• Permanent repeal of the estate, or
“death” tax
• Blocking unnecessary legislation
that could enable independent repair
shops to gain proprietary information
from automakers.
Look for mailings on what’s new for
the 2005 NADA Convention and
Exposition in addition to the
Regulatory Outreach Booth:
• All NHADA members are invited to
attend a “Dessert Reception” for
New Hampshire dealers at the historic
Beauregard-Keyes House on Chartres
Street in New Orleans on Sunday,
January 30, from 9:00 – 11:00 p.m.
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
• All women dealers are invited to the
new Women’s Networking
Breakfast on January 29 with Ann
Moore, President and CEO of Time,
Inc. RSVP using the reply card or go
to www.nada.org/2005Breakfast.
• An oxygen bar, lunch at a
plantation, and tennis pro advice are
just some of the new activities in
NADA’s Lifestyle program.
• New workshops and speakers
• Pre-register before December 10 at
www.nada.org/convention.
One final opportunity: There are new
20 Groups for large-volume dealers,
used-car managers, women dealers,
and more; sign up now to plan a
profitable future. Find out more by
calling 800-252-6232, ext. 3.
As always, let me know your ideas
and concerns, so that I can truly meet
your needs as your NADA Director.
Feel free to call me at 888-0550 or
e-mail me at [email protected].
O
n Friday, October 22,
President Bush signed
the corporate tax
bill (H.R. 4520), which
includes a reduction to
$25,000 for small-business
expensing of sport-utility
vehicles over 6,000
pounds. The new expensing
provision will be effective
for property placed in
service after October 22.
November, 2004
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
AUTOCAP Celebrates 30 Years
Daniel B. McLeod
N
HADA has proudly offered AUTOCAP, a program of mediation and
arbitration for members of NHADA and their customers for 30 years.
Over the 30 years of successfully offering AUTOCAP, there have been
minor administrative improvements to the program, but the process remains
the same. If a member of NHADA has a customer with an inquiry or a dispute
and the customer contacts AUTOCAP either by letter, telephone, or by
utilizing www.nhada.com, it has been, and will continue to be, the role of staff
at NHADA to:
• Listen and be attentive to the concern of the consumer inquiry or complaint;
• Work with the customer to resolve the issue or, if a new-vehicle issue, direct
the customer to the New Hampshire Motor Vehicle Arbitration Board;
• If necessary, notify the owner of the dealership having the complaint made
against them and work with the dealer and consumer to its mediation.
If the staff of NHADA is unsuccessful with mediation, the AUTOCAP case will
be brought to the AUTOCAP Panel, made up of consumers and dealers, for
arbitration. All members of NHADA that agree to participate in AUTOCAP
cases also agree to abide by the decisions of the AUTOCAP Panel.
The AUTOCAP program has been a tremendous success for 30 years and has
been duly recognized by the New Hampshire Attorney General’s office. I
recently was invited to conduct a training session dealing with automobilerelated complaints with the “volunteers” of the Consumer Protection Division
of the Attorney General’s office. It is the Attorney General’s intention to
submit to AUTOCAP all consumer inquiries or complaints that they receive
involving members of NHADA. This is testimonial to the fact that our
AUTOCAP program is highly regarded and performs a very useful and fair
function for members of NHADA and their customers.
www.nhada.com
Are you
Environm aware of the sp
ec
e
member ntal services av ial Safety and
ailable
s? Just g
Home Pa o to the Site M to NHADA
ge and c
a
lick the p on the
link!
page 13
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
Flood-Damaged Cars Put Used-Car Buyers
Nationwide at Risk
T
he four devastating hurricanes
that hit the Southeast this
summer could result in an
increase in the number of flooddamaged vehicles for sale across the
country – even in dry areas! Many
watery wrecks will re-emerge and will
eventually make their way back on
the road. Auto insurance adjusters
total the water-damaged vehicles, but
that doesn’t stop scam artists from
drying them out, polishing them up,
and putting them back up for sale.
Cars may also be repaired and moved
to areas where used-car buyers are less
aware that water damage is a
potential threat, creating a
nationwide safety concern. In many
instances, these mechanically
unsound damaged vehicles undergo
minor repairs and are resold.
• Turn on the A/C, and take a deep
breath to check for musty odors from
mildew.
www.nhada.com
Check out the Site Map on
NHADA’s newly designed Web site.
Take a few minutes to click on each
of the links below – there is a
tremendous amount of
USEFUL INFORMATION!
• Visit a trusted mechanic and/or
auto body shop for a pre-purchase
inspection. Always get vehicles
checked before handing over any
money.
• Run a Carfax Vehicle History
Report. Carfax reports show flood- or
water-damage titles and can reveal if
a vehicle has been titled/registered in
“at-risk” areas where flooding has
occurred. Carfax also offers a
Buyback Guarantee. Cars purchased
with Carfax Vehicle History Reports
that do not contain DMV-reported
incidents (salvage, fire, flood damage,
odometer problems, lemon history)
may be eligible.
There are a few simple tips to help
avoid buying a waterlogged wreck:
• Check the trunk, glove box,
dashboard, and below seats for signs
of water damage, including sand,
mud, or rust. Check for frayed or
cracked wires beneath the dashboard,
and make sure all accessory and
warning lights and gauges come on
and work properly.
ay to
ific w ast
r
r
e
t
p
A
h for
searc e a r t i c l e s !
n
Dateli
• Examine the upholstery and
carpeting. If it doesn’t match the
interior or doesn’t fit properly, it may
have been replaced. Discolored,
faded, or stained material may
indicate water damage.
• Test lights (interior and exterior),
windshield wipers, turn signals,
cigarette lighter, radio, heater, and air
conditioner several times to make sure
they work.
page 14
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
The NE Dodge Dealers
are proud sponsors of the
New Hampshire Automobile
Dealers Association.
November, 2004
page 15
Dateline: NH
www.nhada.com
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
Find all th
link unde is on the WCT
r NHADA A
Programs ffiliate
Claims Corner
First Aid Treatment
Melody Ballantyne, NHADA WCT Claims Manager
W
hen an employee has a
minor injury at work and
needs “First Aid
Treatment,” the Workers’
Compensation statute allows the
employer to pay one-time treatment
that generates a bill less than $250.
However, you must file the First
Report of Injury with the NH
Department of Labor no later than
five (5) days after gaining knowledge
of the work-connected injury or
disease.
The NHADA WCT Department
recommends employers continue to
file “First Aid” claims with the
NHADA WCT and allow us to pay the
providers directly. By doing so, we are
able to discount medical bills through
our managed care program. It is also
important for Loss Prevention efforts
to track frequency and trends.
A concern we hear from our members
quite frequently is, “But if I file this,
it will make my rates go up!” This is
not necessarily true. First Aid claims
are discounted at 70 percent when
calculating a member’s experience
modification. Therefore, the impact
can be minimal. The general rule is,
“Whenever in doubt, always file.”
FACT: NHADA was established
in 1921.
FACT: NHADA employs a fulltime staff of 30 individuals.
page 16
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
Compliance Corner
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
Here We Go Again!
Ryan Hale, NHADA WCT Loss Prevention Consultant
F
all is here, temperatures are
dropping, and snow is on the
horizon. Here we go again,
inevitably facing another “New
Hampshire” winter. Now is the time
to start thinking about a plan of
attack for when the inclement
weather hits.
Every year the WCT Loss Prevention
Department strives to assist our
members in preventing weatherrelated injuries. The past two years we
have held contests to see who has the
best “Slip and Fall Prevention” plan.
These contests have generated a
number of well-thought-out and
innovative plans.
i.e., Who salts? Who plows? Who
shovels?
• Post reminders at all exits alerting
everyone of the approaching storm.
(Night before storm)
• Have outdoor thermometers
installed, and keep an eye on them to
see when the temperature drops below
freezing.
Compliance - Continued on page 18
With that said, we still saw an influx
of injuries during the winter months
as a result of harsh weather and poor
lot conditions. Over the past two
years, 316 reported injuries, costing
hundreds of thousands of dollars,
have resulted from slips and falls due
to winter lot conditions. The cost and
scope of the situation begs that WCT
members plan and work hard to
minimize winter’s impact.
This year, we are intensifying our
efforts with a more personalized
approach. We are assisting our
members directly in developing
specific “Slip and Fall Prevention”
plans. Our method is simple. We are
using a checklist comprised of the
innovative ideas received from
members in prior contests. The
following are some of the ideas
received:
• Purchase enough rock salt and/or
sand early so you have a sufficient
supply.
• Make up a snow team. Assign
certain tasks to certain individuals;
November, 2004
page 17
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
Compliance - Continued from page 17
• Ensure that proper clothing is worn by all those who are participating in the
removal process. Have extra hats, gloves, socks, etc. on hand in case someone
forgets his/her outdoor gear. Provide slip-on anti-slip gear for boots.
• Be sure ice and snow is off all roofs. Block off areas where snow and ice
cannot be removed and could fall unexpectedly.
• When the temperature drops below freezing, have someone inspect the lot for
areas that are conducive to ice buildup due to runoff.
These are just a few of the ideas on the checklist that are being used. We will
be targeting members who have consistently had weather-related injuries in
the past and offering help to those who ask for it. So, if you would like
assistance in the development of your own “Slip and Fall Prevention” plan (or
how to increase the size of your WCT rebate), please feel free to contact any
member of the WCT Loss Prevention Department at 800-852-3372 to
schedule a time to meet with you. You may also request a visit by going to
NHADA’s newly designed Web site at www.nhada.com and clicking on Safety
and Environmental Services, Safety, Request a Visit.
Remember, now is the time to start thinking about what to do when inclement
weather hits – not when it is too late. Preparedness is the key!
Downey & Company, LLP
Certified Public Accountants
“A CPA firm that understands dealership management,
accounting, and tax issues”
In today’s complex automotive business environment,
it pays to engage a CPA firm that has specialized
its practice to service your industry.
Representing over 70 dealerships throughout New England
“
“
“
“
“
“
“
Timely filed tax returns
Computerized LIFO calculations
Tax planning strategies
Estate and succession planning
Operational and accounting reviews
Management consulting
Business valuations
Please visit our Web site at www.Downeycocpa.com
for more information or call Paul McGovern or James Downey
@ 800-849-6022
page 18
Did You Know?
N
HADA members with
Anthem Blue Cross and
Blue Shield coverage are
eligible for:
Member Discounts
• Fitness Clubs
• Martial Arts, Yoga, Tai Chi and
Dance Programs
• Personal Trainers
• Massage Therapy
• Ski Areas
• Appalachian Mountain Club
• Bicycling
• Lifestyle Network
• Allergy and Asthma Relief Products
• CPR and First Aid
• Safety Products and Baby Care
Accessories
• Baby, Toddler and Maternity
Products
• Bicycle and Inline Skating Helmets
• Performance Health Monitors
• Vitamins, Supplements and HealthRelated Products
• Hearing Aids and Evaluations
• Self-Help Books and Audiotapes
• Weight Loss Programs
• Contacts and Laser Eye Surgery
• Eyewear Discounts
Reimbursement Programs
• Smoking Cessation Reimbursement
Program (includes nicotine
replacement aids reimbursement)
• Fitness Reimbursement Program
• Community Health Education
Reimbursement Program
Anthem Rewards
• On-line incentive program to
exercise and stay fit (great prizes!)
To receive a SpecialOffers@Anthem
Directory, please contact Jean Conlon
at NHADA at 800-852-3372 or at
[email protected].
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
November, 2004
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
page 19
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
Family Health Statements Cause Concern
Susan Manning, Insurance Division Employee Programs Coordinator
I
t has been nearly a year since the new small group reform law was enacted.
Since that time, groups with an employee base under 50 must have their
employees complete Family Health Statements in order to obtain medical
group insurance quotes. When the law first kicked in, NHADA voiced its
concern regarding employer liability. The focus of the HIPAA Privacy Act is to
see to the protection of individual privacy. Employer handling of Family
Health Statements seems to blatantly fly into the face of HIPAA.
www.nhada.com
Click on th
e In
Division li surance
nk fo
comprehe
nsive insu r
ranc
wellness
informati e and
on.
We strongly suggested at the
beginning of the year that if you are
considering a comparison of employee
medical benefits and premiums for
your company and are required to
collect this information from your
employees, you do not see or touch
those completed statements. We asked
that you hand them to your
employees with envelopes they could
seal and collect the statements in the
sealed envelopes for the insurance
carrier involved.
NHADA’s concern is that you, as an
employer, will handle a Family
Health Statement of an employee
who has health issues within the
family. If you should then lay off that
employee for some reason and the
employee can link the health issues to
your group premium quote, legal
action could ensue. If you do not
touch the statements, that problem is
avoided.
Throughout the year, we have
experienced many scenarios. Some
employers do adhere to the above
recommendation. However, we have
also received Family Health
Statements by fax from the office of
the company and by copies made in
the company’s office from statements
sent to another carrier. We
recommend that, if you are obtaining
quotes from more than one company,
you ask the employees to make a
copy of their statements before
submitting them in case you need to
ask them for another one.
Please consider paying careful
attention to the handling of Family
Health Statements. Taking a few
minutes to follow the procedure
above could save your company
money, adverse publicity, and
aggravation.
page 20
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
Flu Shot Update
FACT: NHADA serves over 590
business members.
Jean M. Conlon, Wellness Programs Administrator
Most of you are probably aware that the
influenza vaccine supply has been
seriously diminished this year. On
October 5, 2004, the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) was
notified by the Chiron Corporation that
none of its influenza vaccine would be
available for distribution in the U.S. for
the 2004-2005 flu season. This will
reduce by approximately one half the
expected supply of flu vaccine available
in the U.S.
FACT: NHADA members employ
over 12,000 employees, the
average number of employees
per dealership being 46.
We recommend that companies facilitate
the ability of high-risk individuals to get
the vaccine. The time taken for this
procedure will be significantly less than
the time taken by someone who has the
flu!
Any NHADA member employee and/or
family member who is covered by
Anthem through NHAD Services, Inc. Insurance Division AND is at high risk
for influenza as described above will
be eligible for reimbursement
assistance from NHAD Services. Flu
shots are covered by Anthem subject to
co-pay, and NHAD Services will
reimburse 50 percent of the Anthem
co-pay for high-risk individuals. A
reimbursement request form, which may
be downloaded at www.nhada.com,
NHADA Affiliate Programs, NHAD
Services, Inc. – Insurance Division,
Wellness Programs, Flu-Shot
Reimbursement Program, and a copy of
the receipt from the physician’s office
must be submitted. Please include all
family members on one reimbursement
form, even if you have several receipts.
If you have questions, please contact
Jean Conlon at 800-852-3372 or at
[email protected].
November, 2004
Conveniently Located Just off Interstate 95 in Kittery, ME
3 Minutes from Portsmouth, NH
3 LANES
MOSTLY NEW CAR
DEALER TRADES.
LOW FEES FOR BUYERS
& SELLERS!
BANK &
CREDIT UNION
REPOS!
TRANSPORTATION
& RECONDITIONING
AVAILABLE AT
REASONABLE
PRICES.
100%
OWNERS:
ANDY ANDERSON
VINNY TACCETTA
FLOOR PLAN FINANCING
THRU AFC, AUTO USE,
AND GMAC FOR QUALIFIED
BUYERS.
Member:
Auction Insurance Agency
National Auto Auction Assoc.
NH Auto Dealers Assoc.
NE Independent Auto Dealers Assoc.
6 Ranger Drive, Kitter y, Maine
Tel: 207-439-9300
Fax: 207-439-9305
page 21
Dateline: NH
Healthy Hints
J. Marta Robbins, RN, BSN
NHADA WCT Nurse Case Manager
F
or years, all you have heard at
work, at home, on the news,
from your doctor, and from
your friends is, “...You have to get the
flu shot …” Now, this year, what we
are hearing is quite different. The
media is full of information regarding
the shortage of flu vaccine and the
need to hold off on getting it so that
those that are at risk can have the
vaccine.
Who is at risk?
• People over 65 years of age
• People with chronic medical
conditions
• Children between 6 and 23 months
of age
page 22
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
What You Can Do To Avoid the Flu
• Women that are pregnant or are
planning to be pregnant during flu
season
get the flu, staying well hydrated is
one of the best ways to help you get
better fast.
• Health-care workers
• Rest! Being adequately rested and
keeping your stress level low will
allow your body to fight off infection
as well.
So, if we are not at high risk, what
should we do? Just sit back and wait
to get sick? Not necessarily. There are
some common-sense steps that we can
take to try to avoid getting the flu.
What can you do?
• WASH YOUR HANDS! Yes, believe
it or not, just washing your hands is a
huge step in avoiding the flu. The flu
is usually a benign infection and is
spread by droplets from the nose and
mouth. Everything we touch could
potentially have germs that would
put us at risk of catching the flu. So,
the best advice here is to wash your
hands frequently and especially when
you are around someone who is sick.
• Stay hydrated! Drinking enough
fluids keeps our bodies strong and
healthy and makes sure our immune
system is strong and ready to fight off
infection. If you do, unfortunately,
• Communicate with your
doctor! If you are not at risk and you
want to know what else you can do,
contact your primary-care provider to
see what else may be suggested.
• Get an early diagnosis! If you feel
you may have the flu, contact your
primary-care provider. Early diagnosis
and proper treatment of the
symptoms may help reduce the
duration and severity of the flu.
The Centers for Disease Control
estimates that the flu is responsible
for an average of more than 35,000
deaths each year. It is unfortunate
that the vaccine is not available to all
of us this year, but that doesn’t mean
we can’t try to prevent it and limit
our exposure.
November, 2004
Dateline: NH
November, 2004
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
page 23
Dateline: NH
a publication of the New Hampshire Automobile Dealers Association
THANK YOU TO THE 2004 ASSOCIA
TION PAR
TNERS
SSOCIATION
ARTNERS
PL
ATINUM
PLA
SIL
VER (cont.)
SILVER
BRONZE (cont.)
COMPASS BANK
CONLON PRODUCTS INC.
CREDIT UNION DIRECT LENDING
ENTERPRISE RENT A CAR OF BOSTON, INC.
FOSTER’S DAILY DEMOCRAT/THE CITIZEN
G W MARKETING SERVICES
MORGAN STANLEY (ALAN SCALINGI)
GOLD
O’CONNOR & DREW, P.C. &
CAPITAL ACCEPTANCE
OCD CONSULTING, LLC
CITIZENS BANK
RATH, YOUNG & PIGNATELLI, P.A.
BRONZE
THE UNION LEADER AND
RESOURCES MANAGEMENT INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.
NEW HAMPSHIRE SUNDAY NEWS
SANEL AUTO PARTS CO.
ADP DEALER SERVICES
WIGGIN & NOURIE, P.A.
SOUTHERN AUTO AUCTION
AFTERMARKET SPECIALISTS/BUYER’S CHOICE, INC.
WMUR-TV, NEW HAMPSHIRE
SOVEREIGN BANK
ALLTEX UNIFORM RENTAL SERVICE, INC.
ANTHEM SPECIALTY
ST. MARY’S BANK
SIL
VER
SILVER
AUTO AUCTION OF NEW ENGLAND
TARGET DEALER SERVICES
ADESA AUCTIONS BOSTON
BANKNORTH, N.A.
THE DUNLAP CORPORATION
AMERICAN FIDELITY ASSURANCE COMPANY BG PRODUCTS WAREHOUSE DISTRIBUTORS OF NE TIRE WAREHOUSE - TIRES & AUTO PARTS FOR LESS
BOSTON HERALD
ANTHEM BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD
TYLER, SIMMS & ST. SAUVEUR, CPA’S, P.C.
WINDWARD PETROLEUM/VALVOLINE OIL
CARFAX
If your company would like to be an Association Partner,
please contact Dan McLeod at 800-852-3372 or at [email protected].
(as of 10-25-04)
F&I RESOURCES
GMAC
N. E. DODGE DEALERS
ADVERTISING ASSOCIATION
UNIVERSAL UNDERWRITERS GROUP
DEVINE, MILLIMET & BRANCH, P.A.
LACONIA SAVINGS BANK
MANHEIM’S AMERICAN AUTO AUCTION
NEW ENGLAND CHRYSLER-JEEP DEALERS
ADVERTISING ASSOCIATION
NORTHEAST DELTA DENTAL
PROTECTIVE
THE TELEGRAPH
TOYOTA/LEXUS FINANCIAL SERVICES
New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of Motor Vehicles
Title Statistics Report Month Ending: 09/30/04
September
04 YTD
03 YTD
Titles Issued for New and Demo Vehicles:
Titles Issued for Used Vehicles:
TOTAL TITLES ISSUED:
12,182
23,137
35,319
103,577
198,251
301,828
107,336
210,979
318,315
Titles Issued with a Lien:
Titles Issued with no Lien:
14,772
20,547
128,833
172,995
144,732
173,583
Salvage Titles Issued:
Salvage Tags Issued:
607
276
7,014
2,850
6,852
2,870
Titles Issued for Heavy Trucks More than 15 Years Old:
Titles Issued for Heavy Trucks 15 Years Old or Less:
Titles Issued for Trailers:
Titles Issued for Motorcycles:
Titles Issued for Motor Homes:
45
165
1,267
1,511
165
434
1,681
9,792
14,046
1,166
389
1,583
8,802
12,949
1,154
page 24
November, 2004