GNYADA November 2014 Newsletter

To read these stories and get the latest news online, visit the GNYADA website at www.gnyada.com

For Dealer Principals / General Managers / Sales Managers The Newsletter A Publication of Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association

GNYADA PAC Scores Over 97% Success Rate in Midterm Elections 1

NOV 2014 Volume 24, Issue 7

We are still evaluating all of the election results in New York, but we are happy to report that 97% of the candidates that GNYADA supported through the dealer PAC fund have won their races for the State Legislature. The results of the midterm election came as clear justification for GNYADA’s political action strategy. The GNYADA PAC fund comes from dealer contributions, and 100% of the con- tributions go to support State representa- tives who support new car dealer issues in the Legislature. GNYADA members con- tributed a record $365,000 to primaries and general races this year. Among the candidates that GNYADA supported were Gov. Cuomo and Lt. Gov.- elect Kathy Hochul, both of whom faced primary and general election challenges. GNYADA also supported NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli as well as state legislators from both the Senate and Assembly. Republicans Pick Up Seats in the Senate GNYADA was particularly successful in supporting a number of key Republican

Senators. These senators will enter a new term in January with Republicans in sole control of the State Senate, something that their conference lost following the 2012 elections. It is GNYADA’s goal to continue to achieve these kinds of strong successes to justify the political activity it undertakes on your behalf. We want to take the opportunity to thank all the dealers who support GNYADA’s political efforts in Washington, Albany, and on the local level to make sure fran- chise dealers’ voices are heard. Your finan- cial contributions along with the calls and emails that you send on key legislative issues are what allow us to be effective on your behalf. It’s Never Too Late to Contribute You may contribute to the GNYADA PAC at any time or send contributions of $250, $500, $1,000, or more with your member- ship dues. Make a donation to help us advo- cate on your behalf by calling Jennifer at the Association at 718.746.5900 ext. 235.

OBEBDPOWFOUJPOPSH

HIGHLIGHTS

Flat Fees Do Not Reduce Risk on Discrimination page 2

GNYADA Working with DEC on ZEVs page 4 New Healthcare Rule in Effect in January page 7 GNYADA Joins NY Cares Coat Drive page 8

Breaking Gender Barriers page 10

The Newsletter is published by GNYADA, a not-for-profit organization representing franchised automobile dealers in the New York metro area. 18-10 Whitestone Expressway Whitestone, New York, 11357

Dealer Hotline 718.746.5900 www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014 1

2 Flat Fees Do Not Reduce Risk on Discrimination

that it was based on a legitimate, non-discriminatory factor. The NADA program fully incorporates the program created by the Department of Justice for two auto dealerships in 2007 to resolve fair credit cases. Last month, Marlin Stutzman (R- Ind.) and Ed Perlmutter (D-Colo.) introduced H.R. 5403, a bipartisan bill that would nullify the CFPB’s 2013 auto lending guidance. GNYADA continues to work with NADA to create fair lending practices in the industry. Log on to NADA at www.nada.org/cfpb for a copy of the Fair Credit Compliance Policy & Program. This article was contributed by Forrest McConnell, NADA Chairman, and Honda/Acura dealer in Montgomery, Alabama.

For over 100 years, consumers have benefited from fierce competition between local dealers, which in any given market drives down prices for car buyers both in and across brands. Plus, dealer-assisted financing has provided car buyers with competitive rates on auto financing. But the fed- eral government is trying to take away the right of car buyers to get discounted rates from dealers. In March 2013, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – with- out prior notice or public comment – issued guidance on indirect auto lend- ing that pressures finance sources to compensate dealers with a flat fee. The CFPB claims that negotiated interest rates between dealers and their customers can create a signifi- cant risk of discrimination. GNYADA and the National Automobile Dealers Association strongly oppose discrimination in any form and fully support the efforts of the CFPB, the Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission, and other federal agencies to eliminate it from the marketplace. However, a government-imposed flat-fee model would only serve to eliminate a con-

sumer’s ability to get a rate discount on auto financing. If the CFPB were to succeed in getting the industry to shift to an across-the-board flat fee compensation system, dealers’ incen- tive would shift to choosing lenders that pay them the highest flat fee, which in turn would frequently result in higher APRs for consumers. NADA Solution Addresses Credit and Competition Last January, NADA developed the NADA Fair Credit Compliance Policy and Program that provides a dealer with a mechanism to promote compliance with fair credit laws. The program was released in partnership with the American International Automobile Dealers Association and the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers. amount of dealer reserve earned in a transaction is supported by a legiti- mate business reason, such as the presence of a monthly budget con- straint, a more competitive offer, and inventory reduction considerations. The dealer documents each pricing decision so that it can demonstrate The voluntary program addresses fair credit risks by ensuring that the

Did You Know?

Monthly and annual inspections of all your fire extinguishers are required by OSHA. Undocumented and incomplete fire extinguisher tags can result in a $2,500 fine –EACH! The monthly inspections are visual only and can be performed by your dealership’s maintenance or safety person. These inspections ensure the extinguisher is undam- aged, the hose isn’t blocked, the safety seal is unbroken, and the operating instructions are legible. They also include a check of the pressure gauge to verify the device is fully charged. The month and year of these inspections, along with the initials of the person performing them, must be recorded on the each extinguisher's hang tag.

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014

2

Neale Kuperman Elected New NADA Treasurer

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At GNYADA he served as Treasurer and as Chair of the Finance Committee, preparing him well for his new endeavor with NADA. During his term as GNYADA Chair, Neale worked on updating the Franchise Bill and increasing the DOC fee. Once again, GNYADA congratulates Neale Kuperman. His commitment to the auto industry is extremely commendable.

The Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association sends its con- gratulations to Rockland Toyota President Neale Kuperman, the newly elected Treasurer of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). Neale was elected on October 14, which puts him on NADA’s Executive Committee. He had previ- ously served on NADA’s Board of Directors. He is the Immediate Past Chair of GNYADA, and an active member of our Board of Directors.

David Karp, 2015 Time Dealer of the Year Nominee 4

“We take good care of our employ- ees and they in turn take good care of our customers,” Karp said. “We heavily involve ourselves in our community and promote charity, community spirit, and fair business practices.” Karp’s connection to Rockville Center runs deep and he is proud to give back to the community where he grew up. He is a founding mem- ber of the Rockville Centre Education Foundation (provides funding for school projects) and of the Rockville Centre Community Fund (offers assistance to needy resi- dents). “Our children are our future,” he said. “Karp Automotive has provided more than 85 scholarships to gradu- ating high school seniors, and we are proud to see them flourish. We also assist mentally challenged students by providing an opportunity for them to enjoy a non-threatening learning experience in our workplace.”

When Superstorm Sandy hit in 2012, Karp’s team jumped into action to assist his devastated community. “We lost power for a week and pur- chased generators that allowed us to keep our doors open and provide a refuge to stranded neighbors,” he said. “We also helped customers replace their cars so that they could get some part of the lives back to ‘normal.’ I was so very proud of our employees who supported these efforts.” Karp was nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year award by Mark Schienberg, President of the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association.

CREDIT: DOMINICK TOTINO PHOTOGRAPHY

David Karp, president of Karp Buick Kia Volvo in Rockville Centre, has been nominated as a 2015 TIME Dealer of the Year and will be honored at the 98th National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Convention & Exposition in San Francisco on January 23, 2015. The TIME Dealer of the Year award is one of the automobile industry’s most prestigious and highly coveted honors. Recipients are among the nation’s most successful auto dealers who also demonstrate a longstanding commitment to community service.

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014 3

5 New Media – New Enforcement Era

Recent FTC Activity Examples A recent FTC consent order was based on an advertise- ment that read in big bold print: “2013 KIA Sportage. $0 down and $99 per month.” Buried in small faint- gray type with the background of a white and silver wheel were a series of disclosures that included noting that only the first two months were at $99—with the remaining 70 monthly payments being $521. Another dealer advertised a low vehicle price, but buried in an inconspicuous footnote was a $5,000 down payment requirement. Another deceptive advertisement listed favorable financing terms for a vehicle but failed to disclose that in order to qualify, consumers must have met numerous other criteria that few, if any, could collectively meet. This is called “rebate stacking” and the FTC considers it to be deceptive as well. n n n

Advertising – it’s no longer just TV, print, and radio spots used for promoting car sales. Now there’s a variety of social media options that weren’t even in existence when advertising laws were first drafted. As a result, the FTC has become much more active in pursuing dealers whom they perceive have practiced deceptive advertising. The FTC defines “deceptive” as any representation, omis- sion, or practice that is likely to mislead a consumer. Since 2012, the FTC has brought 16 cases against auto dealers for deceptive advertising. If the FTC determines than an advertisement is “likely to mislead,” violations can be as high as $16,000 per piece mailed or per viewing of a printed or online ad. Social Media Advertising Challenges Internet or social media advertising presents its own set of challenges. All disclosures that need to be made clearly and conspicuously in print must also be made clearly and conspicuously online. In assessing penalties for deceptive Internet or social media ads, the FTC has said the same standards for deceptive and unfair advertising apply.

GNYADA thanks Randy Henrick, Associate General Counsel and Lead Compliance Counsel for Dealertrack for his contribution to this article.

GNYADA Joins GroupWorking with NYS on Future of Electric Cars

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The Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association is working on ways to meet New York State’s man- date on zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), which state that by 2025, 25 percent of all vehicles sold in NYS are supposed to be ZEVs. We are participating in calls and committees with state agencies to help figure out ways to help dealers meet these goals. We are part of the process in bringing new ideas to the forefront. The question remains, how-

ever, how do we sweeten the pot for consumers? We’ve called on the state to take some initiative and have put forth some ideas of our own: Point of sale tax relief; Rebates; and Tax exemptions. The State also needs to build up the infrastructure that would support these vehicles. What’s more, it needs to lead by example by customizing its own fleets by changing over to zero- emission vehicles to meet the man- n n n

date as well. A strong marketing cam- paign from the State is also needed to help educate consumers about the ZEVs and the benefits they offer. GNYADA is participating in a ZEV Multi-State Task Force that will con- tinue to work with government offi- cial on how to make the 25 percent mandate attainable and workable for dealers.

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014

4

GNYADAWins Another Extension From DCA on Subpoena Submittal

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ten. GNYADA has met numerous times with members of the City Council and with representatives of DCA and the Mayor’s office. By arranging for another extension (GNYADA was able to work out two earlier delays since July), GNYADA will be able to continue its work with DCA and reach a reasonable solution to this matter. We will continue to keep you informed about our progress in work- ing out a successful resolution on this issue. If you need further informa- tion, please contact Susan Bieber, Director of Dealer Services, at 718.746.5900, ext. 250. require employers to report all work- related in-patient hospitalizations to those occurring within 24 hours of the work-related incident, as well as amputations and/or loss of an eye, to OSHA within 24 hours. Previously, employers had to report only when three or more employees were hospi- talized from a single incident. Employers will report this informa- tion by telephone to the local OSHA office, the toll-free number (800.321.6742), or via a web-portal that will be available by January. GNYADA’s Annual OSHA Compliance Seminar on December 17 will include a discussion on poli- cies and procedures dealers must implement to comply with OSHA’s new recordkeeping requirements. Contact Phyllis at 718.746.5900 or phyllisa@gnyada.com to register.

subpoenas to more than 200 dealers alleging that dealers who sell vehicles with an open recall are engaged in a deceptive practice. In addition to the actions of DCA, legislation was intro- duced by the New York City Council that would also make it illegal to sell used cars in NYC with open safety recalls. GNYADA has contested DCA’s interpretation of existing law and has been working with both City Council Members and DCA on find- ing a satisfactory resolution. GNYADA President Mark Schienberg testified on the legislation at a Consumer Affairs Committee hearing on October 29 as to conse- quences of the legislation as it is writ- Dealers must record all work-related injuries and illnesses that result in days away from work, loss of con- sciousness, restricted work or transfer to another job, or medical treatment beyond first aid (as defined by OSHA). Dealers will also have to complete and post the Summary annually, even if no recordable work-related injuries or illnesses occurred during the year. Dealers must retain these forms for five years. Forms can be completed online, and the forms and instructions can be found at https://www.osha.gov/ recordkeeping/RKforms.html . Reporting Severe Injuries The new rule retains the requirement to report all fatalities (those occur- ring within 30 days of the work-relat- ed incident) to OSHA within eight hours but changes the regulation to

As a result of GNYADA’s most recent meeting, the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs has extended the December 5 subpoena deadline regarding the sale of used cars with open recalls to February 2, 2015. GNYADA appreciates DCA’s under- standing of the need to extend the subpoena’s deadline until after the New Year. Together, we’re engaging in ongoing constructive dialogue to find a workable solution that’s in the best interest of both vehicle owners and retail new and used car dealers. As mentioned in previous articles in the Association's newsletter and emails to our members, DCA issued In September the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced a new rule revising the requirements for recordkeeping and reporting work-related fatality, injury, and illness information that goes into effect January 1, 2015. New car deal- ers along with a few other industries are now required to keep records of these incidents. However, dealers with 10 or fewer employees remain exempt. What Forms Will My Dealership Need to Complete? The OSHA injury and illness record- keeping forms are: Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses ( OSHA Form 300 ) Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses ( OSHA Form 300A ) Injury and Illness Incident Report ( OSHA Form 301 ) n n n 8

New OSHA Injury Recordkeeping Rules

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014 5

Color It In

Where to Get MV-82s

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Is your dealership running low on MV-82s? DMV-DIRECT can help – we always have a supply of MV-82s on hand for dealers. You may also contact DMV to order extra forms by: writing to DMV on dealership letterhead requesting the number of forms required (each package has 500 forms) include a contact name, the dealership address, and facility number fax the letter to the Supply Unit in Albany at 518.861.6711 n n n

The DMV has a list of codes that it accepts as car colors. So even though you’re selling Atomic Gold, it can only be listed as Gold in DMV registration paperwork. Please convert any manufacturer color names into the standard color closest to the actual of the vehicle. If the vehicle is two shades of the same color, use the predominant color.

We are pleased to inform you that there is no fee for these forms.

Standard Color Code

Causes for DMV Rejects

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Black

BK

FS20: Double check the VIN and make sure the make and model are listed correctly. The registrant’s name must match his/her driver’s license exactly (be sure to include any middle initials or suffixes, such as Jr.). n n MSO or Title: Make sure you’re attaching the right MSO or Title with the paperwork (it’s easy to have a stack of papers in front of you and have things get mixed up). Lien Releases (mv901): You need an original signature on the form or an original letter of non-interest. For vehicles being registered and titled in New York State, a print- out from the DMV’s website showing that a lien has been elec- tronically released is acceptable. Finally, don’t cut driver’s licenses and registration down to size and don’t fold insurance cards in half. A simple staple in the upper left corner will keep everything neat and tidy. n n n

Avoid DMV rejections. DMV- DIRECT has one of the lowest rejection rates statewide. If, howev- er, you still prefer to process motor vehicle paperwork in your dealer- ship, avoid these common mistakes: Has everyone signed in the proper places? Is the inspection certificate number and date listed? Indicate the selling price (N/A is cause for rejection). Make sure the Lease Buy Out, Title Only, or the Odometer Disclosure Statement boxes are checked. MV-82: Temp date must be filled in. Did you list the driver’s license number? n n n n n n Registrant’s DOB and gender? Make sure the registrant signed the form and printed his/her name to the left. Fill in questions 1 to 3 in Section 6. The dealer must also sign. n n n n MV-50:

Blue

BL

Brown

BR

Gold

GL

Gray

GY

Green

GR

Maroon

MR

Orange

OR

Pink

PK

Purple PR

Red RD

Tan

TN

White

WH

Yellow

YW

Light

LT

Dark DK

This list of colors was taken directly from the NYS DMV Dealer Plate Issuance Guide (MV-461) rev. 2/14 – Section C, Appendix C, Supplemental Information C.4.4.

If you have any questions about your paperwork, call Jean-Marie in DMV-DIRECT at 718.747.0400.

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014

6

GM’s Labor Rate Policy Violates New York Law

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rate calculation certain types of repairs, including parts sold at

13 Beginning January 1, 2015, employ- ers with 50 or more full-time employ- ees must offer health insurance cov- erage to at least 70 percent of their staff. In addition, the health insurance offered must meet affordability stan- dards and provide mandated mini- mum coverage. A plan is considered unaffordable if an employee’s share of the premium (for self-only cover- age) exceeds 9.5 percent of the employee’s wages. The affordability calculation applies to the lowest cost plan offered by the employer. Penalties Penalties for non-compliance (failing As part of its Service Policies and Procedures Manual, General Motors has issued “Option A Guidelines,” which focuses on reimbursement for warranty labor charges. Several of those policies are flawed and violate the New York Franchised Motor Vehicle Dealer Act. GNYADA has issued a letter requesting that GM’s process conform to New York law. The Guidelines tells dealers to: Refrain from requesting a change in their reimbursement rate during November and December; Submit their labor rate requests on a designated form; Conduct a survey of labor rates in their markets; Disclose labor rates to customers in a particular fashion; and Include maintenance and menu items in a labor rate submission. The Franchise Law includes specific requirements for seeking changes to warranty parts and warranty labor reimbursement rates. The Law trumps any contrary provisions n n n n n

to offer health insurance to at least 70% of employees) can be pretty severe – $2,000 a year ($166.67/month) times the total num- ber of full-time employees in excess of 30. If an employer offers health insurance coverage, but the coverage does not meet the minimum standard or is determined to be unaffordable, the employer penalty increases to $3,000 annually ($250/month). Penalties are not tax deductible and will be assessed if even one full-time employee receives a pre- mium subsidy to help purchase insurance through an Insurance Exchange. imposed by the manufacturer, espe- cially when they are as arbitrary as these requirements. GM’s proce- dures are contrary to the provisions of the law, and thus we consider them invalid. The law permits a dealership to seek a change in its reimbursement rate at any time , once a year. The franchisor is not authorized to prohibit applica- tions at any time of year. GM’s form (under Option A) requests information beyond what the law per- mits. For example, GM asks dealers to survey labor rates in their markets, including both franchised and inde- pendent outlets. The law places the burden for any survey on GM . A franchisor may survey only dealer- ships of the same make and in the dealership’s vicinity to determine if a dealer’s request is reasonable. Further, GM directs dealers to include all labor, including mainte- nance and menu items, while the law expressly excludes from the labor

wholesale, tires, routine maintenance, vehicle reconditioning, and battery replacement. Thus, GM’s demand violates the law. GM’s Option A procedures have caused substantial confusion among dealers in New York, in that they conflict with the New York Franchised Motor Vehicle Dealer Act. Dealers should not be discouraged from seeking reimbursement for war- ranty work at retail rates as a result of the Option A procedures. The foregoing is provided for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice.

GNYADA thanks Richard Sox, Esq., RSox@DealerLawyer.com , for the material for this item.

New Healthcare Rule in Effect in January

Avoid Penalties GNYADA’s Insurance Brokerage can help determine if your dealership is not meeting the affordability or mini- mum coverage standards through your dealership-sponsored health insurance. Call us for a review and we will provide you with an afford- ability report to help keep you in compliance. Contact Michael Conway at mconway@gnyada.com or 718.746.8100.

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014 7

Teamwork and Accountability Improve Employee Performance

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How many of us have started new programs and stopped? How many of us have invested our time in a new process only to fall back into old habits? The main culprit that causes employee performance failure is twofold: Not having full buy-in or partici- pation from the entire team, and Not performing timely accounta- bility to focus on the progress being made. There are four main things you need to clarify about an improvement plan BEFORE implementing it. 1. What is the goal of the change? Are you clear on the outcome you want to achieve? Can you visualize what your business will look like once the change occurs? Have you taken into account how this change will affect other employees or departments? The clearer you can see the outcome, the more specific

you can be communicating and directing your vision to your team.

up on everyone’s progress. One great benefit of having everyone present for the follow-up sessions is that the group helps to hold every- one accountable, not just upper man- agement. Consistently improving your employee’s performance takes time and total team effort. Plot your course, get everyone’s input on the solution, and work together as a team to enact long-lasting change for your company. You can reach Glenn Pasch at glenn@pcgmailer.com or on Twitter @glennpasch. He is happy to answer questions you may have relating to this article. Glenn will be teaching The 5 Cs of High Performing Teams at The Center for Automotive Education & Training on November 20, 2014. To register, contact Carole Rogner at 718.640.2012 or Carole@gnyada.com

2. Why are you putting this change into place? Without a strong understanding of why something is necessary, employees may follow orders for the time being to pacify the leadership, but soon their new actions will slow- ly roll back to old habits. 3. How do you plan to achieve this goal? Map out every step of your new process and then demonstrate each step for your team so there is no misunderstanding of what is expect- ed. If you can’t “do” it, then it is not clear enough. 4. How will you hold people accountable to achieving this goal? Finally, set a weekly schedule to meet with the entire staff to follow

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GNYADA Joins NY Cares in Helping Homeless

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With the approach of cold winter days, even cold- er winter nights, and very real concerns about sur- vival, GNYADA is again teaming up with New York Cares to operate public collection sites for winter coats that will be distributed to those less fortunate. Last year, New York Cares distributed nearly 78,000 coats, but it wasn’t enough. GNYADA thanks the dealerships that have signed on to become coat collection sites. To enroll your deal- ership, fill out the form found at http://bit.ly/gnyadacoatdrive . Last year, GNYADA dealerships collected an amazing 6,000-plus coats. By working together and getting the word out in your neighborhoods and communities, we hope to top that number this year.

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014

8

16 Helms Bros. Mercedes-Benz Donates CPR Unit

Helms Bros. Mercedes-Benz general manager and GNYADA Board Member Suzanne Cochran was joined by dealership principal Doug Callaghan and shop foreman Jason Valentin to present a Resusci Anne CPR training unit to CPR Instructor/EMT Steven kmiotek of the Bayside Volunteer Ambulance Corp., in Bayside, Queens. kmiotek thanked Cochrane, Callaghan, Helms Bros. Mercedes-Benz, GNYADA, and the National Automobile Dealers Association Charitable Foundation for the donation. The donation is part of the National Automobile Dealers Association’s community outreach program. NADA’s program is administered locally by GNYADA. Nationwide, since 1975, franchised automobile dealers have donated thousands of manikins worth more than $3 million on which more than 2 million people have been trained. It is so important to provide these training units as every second counts in saving a life. If bystander CPR is not provided, a sudden cardiac arrest victim’s chances of survival fall 7 to 10 percent for every minute of delay until defibrillation. A delegation of Chinese educators, including Ms. Zhansheng Ji, an Official of the Beijing Education Commission, visited GNYADA to learn about technical automotive vocational training. GNYADA’s Center for Automotive Education & Training (CAET) is considered one of the best in the nation for vocational training and a model for this type of school-to-work training. The dele- gation was greeted by the GNYADA’s Director of Education & Training Ed Gazzillo, who led the group on a tour of the Center with the purpose of sharing ideas on the future of automotive education and training. “We are thrilled that our training center is on the radar of vocational educators in Beijing,” said Gazzillo. “We have a great community facility here, in conjunction with Lincoln Technical Institute, that is training young people for high-paying careers in the retail auto industry.” The group included the Beijing Education Commissioner and a principal and instructor from a Beijing vocational high school. The visit underscores GNYADA’s position 17

CREDIT: DOMINICk TOTINO PHOTOGRAPHY

It’s easy to donate to your local Ambulance Corp., Fire or Police Depts., Schools, and so forth. Contact GNYADA’s Membership Services Director Jennifer Berman at Jennifer@gnyada.com for an application to donate to your local group. These units are provided to dealers for donation free of charge, so please don’t hesitate. Breathing new life into the community: Helms Bros. owner Doug Callaghan (r), GM Suzanne Cochrane (l), and shop foreman Jason Valentin present Bayside Ambulance Corps. CPR Instructor/EMT Steven Kmiotek with a new CPR manikin.

GNYADA’s Training Center Chosen by Chinese Educators as Model for Vocational Training

as an industry leader in automotive education and training and is a testament to its ongoing efforts of providing a highly skilled workforce to auto dealers in the area. Stephen Mercaldo, AYES New York State Field Manager, GNYADA; Ms. Jing Du, English teacher at the Beijing Vocational HS. l to r: Ms. Zhansheng Ji, Official of the Beijing Education Commission; Doris Pokras, CCIM, Global Career Services, Inc.; Ms. Aiqin Zhao, Principal of Beijing Vocational HS; Edward Gazzillo, Director of Education & Training, GNYADA;

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014 9

Breaking Gender Barriers

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As the summer of 2005 approached, O’Hara began the process of select- ing students for AYES summer internships. Students chosen for an internship must be at the top of their class. Good grades, good attitude, good attendance, and a willingness to learn are a few of the requirements. Bruce Stonemetz, service manager at Buzz Chew Chevrolet Cadillac in Southampton, was looking for moti- vated young people, both male and female. Finding a qualified female intern is difficult, but Tara inter- viewed and was given the opportuni- ty to prove she ready for prime time. Under the guidance of master auto tech and mentor Russell Gregg, Tara’s knowledge and skills moved to the next level. She was anxious to learn and in a few weeks became part of the dealership team. Tara is now a full-time employee in the Buzz Chew Chevrolet Cadillac service shop.

Here is a success story of how one dealership put words into action and helped a young woman begin her career in a man-dominated industry. As a high school student, Tara Collins registered for the automotive technology program at H. B. Ward Career and Technical Center in Riverhead. She says that the idea of taking a course in automotive tech- nology raised a lot of eyebrows at first, but folks who knew her passion for cars realized that she had to fol- low her dream. When her auto tech instructor, Mike O’Hara, asked how she became inter- ested in working on cars, her answer was out of the norm for a young woman. “I think I was born with a passion for cars. I would follow my grandfather around his automotive repair shop, asking questions about cars and how parts worked.”

On September 23, 2014, the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association had the pleasure of wel- coming a group of Republican Senators to its Center for Automotive Education & Training after a Board meeting. The senators met with Board members to discuss the training we offer and were treat- ed to a tour of our Center for Automotive Education & Training. They also had the opportunity to learn how the automotive industry is evolving and how GNYADA and CAET are helping shape the future. The term nontraditional career refers to jobs that have in the past mostly been filled by one gender. Visit any dealership in the New York Metro area and you’ll find very few females turning a wrench. GNYADA’s education committee is actively involved in programs that aim to open the profession to women. The Association supports programs offered by Lincoln Technical Institute and Automotive Youth Educational Systems. Both programs encourage women to consider a career in the automotive tech trade.

19 Republican Senators Tour CAET

CREDIT: DOMINICk TOTINO PHOTOGRAPHY

A Republican delegation joined GNYADA for a tour of CAET. From left: Sen. John Flanagan, Sen. Michael Nozzolio, Sen. Jack Martins, Sen. Kemp Hannon, GNYADA Chair Bob Vail, Paul Conte of Paul Conte Cadillac, Sen. Dean Skelos, Sen. Carl Marcellino, Sen. Catharine Young, and GNYADA President Mark Schienberg.

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014

10

Upgrade Your Facility and Get a Rebate

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The process is simple A few minutes at your facility to determine whether opportunities exist. Complete the audit and analysis of the facility. QCS will fill out and process the rebate paperwork. Estimate the project cost and relat- ed energy savings. Install the measures, provide financing options if needed, and work with the appropriate parties to see the project to fruition. To learn more contact: Melanie B. Gately, mgately@qcsenergy.com , 866.641.6321 or 718.231.4322. n n n n n

down by a modest amount now, then after the on-bill financing or leasing term has passed (normally three to five years), your bill drops dramatically. Why would Con Edison work with to provide rebates? The agency has to reduce electrical consumption and rebates are wonderful incentives for facilities such as yours. In some cases, they offset up to 50 percent of the project costs and provide on-bill financing programs that cover the rest, so there is no out-of-pocket cost to you. This is the most robust pro- gram they have ever offered to their customers. Quality Conservation Services will help you to determine which facility upgrades would qualify for these rebates and how much of the total cost would be covered.

Quality Conservation Services ( www.qualityconservationservices. com ), a GNYADAAllied Member, has partnered with Con Edison and NYSERDA to implement their incentive rebate program, the Demand Management Program. What does this mean to you? MONEY!!!!! Projects you may have put on hold because of capital budget concerns should now be reconsid- ered. The Demand Management Program may cover much of the cost if the upgrades positively impact your electrical consumption. Typical measures eligible for incentive rebates include: lighting, HVAC, fans, motors and controls, refrigera- tion, and energy management system upgrades. The bottom line? You get new light- ing or HVAC equipment, at little or no cost, and your electrical consump- tion and related costs go down. In most cases, your utility bill goes

Using Social Media to Hire New Staff

21

According to staff.com, 92 percent of companies are now using social media when recruiting and hiring. Social media has become an invalu-

tual tours, photos of the workplace, and more), creating an opportunity for candidates to obtain a clearer understanding of an organization’s expectations and the qualifications necessary for open positions up front… even before candidates have submitted their applications. Social media offers an excellent way for employers to offer prospective candidates a view of what it would be like to work at your dealership. The text, graphics, images, and videos of the organization’s social media posts should deliberately speak to the type of person who will

be a best fit for an open position. This strategy will help the organiza- tion determine whether a candidate will be a great fit, and it will help the candidate determine if the organiza- tion is right fit for them. GNYADA will be holding a seminar, Why Should I Work for You? on December 10 at the Center for Automotive Education & Training. This seminar will delve into great tips on attracting and obtaining a tal- ented workforce. To register, contact Carole Rogner at 718.640.2012 or Carole@gnyada.com .

able tool for hiring managers – LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook,

YouTube, and Instagram are all being leveraged as efficient and cost-effec- tive ways to reach prospective candi- dates and communicate about open positions. But lately, a shift has taken place at companies in the way they are recruiting via social media. This strategic approach leverages the visu- al nature of these platforms (via vir-

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014 11

EMPLOYMENT CORNER

22 The Aging Service Tech Is your dealership’s service area staffed with midcareer mechanics? People who are likely to retire in the next 10 to 20 years? There’s genuine competition among auto dealers in many parts of the nation to hire or retain good technicians. According to economicmodeling.com , it is estimated that 47 percent of all mechanics are above the age of 45. So who’s going to step in and fill those spots as their numbers retire? Sure, high school graduates can land basic maintenance jobs, such as changing engine oil, but the real need is more highly trained technicians. It’s those at the top of the profession that the industry is most concerned about losing, the master mechanics who don’t just read troubleshooting data off a computer screen, but rather put their education and experience to use to interpret clues and pinpoint a problem. It takes approximately 5 to 10 years for a service technician to master his or her craft, so now is the time to start recruiting. Lincoln Technical Institute in Whitestone, Queens, is currently graduating able service technicians willing to work at your dealership. Many of these graduates have interned at dealerships during their studies and many also have gone to OEM-specific training after LTI and are ready to be productive techs at your dealership now. For more information please contact kate Clymer, Director of Career Services, at 718.640.9800, ext. 41829, or KClymer@lincolntech.com .

GNYADA’s Employment Corner is a free recruiting and job placement service that lists qualified candidates for positions at dealerships. If you have a position to fill, call 718.640.2012 .

FILE #

POSITION

RESIDES IN

OFFICE

Biller

Bronx

740 741 742 743 744

College Point

Bookkeeper

Brooklyn Manhattan

Yonkers

Bookkeeper/Biller

Carmel

745

Controller/Office Manager

Astoria Flushing

746 747

Office Manager

East Elmhurst

748

Receptionist

College Point

749

SALES

Pre-Owned Sales Manager

Glen Cove

750

Sales

Nassau County Suffolk County

751 752

SERVICE

Receptionist/Service Cashier

Massapequa

753

Service Advisor

Linden Hill

754

Service Manager

Pleasantville

755

Contact Us: 18-10 Whitestone Expressway | Whitestone, NY | 11357 Dealer Hotline: 800.245.4640 GNYADA Headquarters: 718.746.5900 E-Mail: assistance@gnyada.com DMV-DIRECT: 718.747.0400 GNYADA Insurance Brokerage, LLC: 718.746.5900 New York International Automobile Show: 718.746.5300 Center for Automotive Education and Training: 718.640.2000

www.facebook.com/gnyada @gnyada_official

The information contained in this newsletter may not be relied upon for the avoidance of tax penalties. Readers are urged to discuss any issues raised in this newsletter with their legal and tax professionals. Printed on FSC certified material. All original material except where noted. © GNYADA 2014

Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association • www.gnyada.com

The Newsletter • November 2014

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