Alabama Tire Dealers Association

6096 County Road 434 Trinity, AL 35673 (256) 616-3587

(256) 974-1480 Fax AlaTireDealers@cs.com www.alatiredealers.com

Spare Tire July 2015

In This Edition…

Alabama Tire Dealers Association

6096 County Road 434

Trinity, AL 35673

Business Articles

TIA Suggests Tire Registration,

Recall Solution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Tire Registration Now Strapped to Senate

Highway Bill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Government Relations:

State Legislation Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Business Groups Urge Healthcare Reform . . . . 31

Warren Tire Is Servicing Locals, Students . . . . 33

Hornsby Tire Expanding Footprint . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Senate Bill Would Allow Online Product

Warranty Posting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Proposal Would Boost Federal Minimum

Wage to $15 an Hour by 2020 . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

2015 Convention

Recap New Members &

New Preferred Providers Page 5

Letter from the President

Hello,

Another successful Convention!!

My sincere appreciation goes out to all of our vendors, whose support and partnership make this annual event

possible. Thanks to all who participated in making the new events such as the Vendor Fair, Kids Activities, and of course “The Mullet Toss” a big hit! The new events were well enjoyed by all who participated. However, the quality time spent amongst the dealers interacting, sharing ideas and fellowship was priceless. From my experience, time spent with other dealers is where I received and shared “best ideas” that made positive impacts on my business. Not to mention the lifelong friendships that has been forged as a result. Yes, sometimes these friends were also competitors, but the relationship and respect built during these meetings actually make us better business people. With that said, it is my goal during my tenure to grow the ATDA and make next year’s Convention the best ever. In closing, we can all continue to learn and grow in the ever changing world of the tire business. I look forward to seeing everyone soon! Shane Adams ATDA President Trax Tire Mobile, AL 251-445-0699

2015 – 2016

ATDA Board of Directors

Executive Committee

President

Shane Adams

Trax Tires, Inc.

First Vice President

Mike Craft

Chelsea Tire & Service

Second Vice President

Jim Caton

Andalusia Tire Co.

Secretary/Treasurer

Howie Johnston

Tire Engineers

Board of Directors

Greg East (1st Year)

Affordable Tire & Repair

Jeff Ferguson (2nd

Year)

Jim Whaley Tires

Jim Foust (3rd

Year)

McGriff Tire

Bobby Gillespie (1st Year)

Gillespie Tire & Automotive

Supplier Representatives

Tom Dutton (1st Year)

American Tire Distributors

Frank Harcrow (1st Year)

Mohawk Rubber Sales

Mickey Hooten (1st Year)

NAPA Genuine Parts Co.

Steve Mattis (1st Year)

Hornsby Tire Distributors

Past Presidents’ Council

Dolan Davis, Jr. (Chaplain)

Southside Davis Tire

Scott Roberson

Royal Tire Service

Bob Gipson

Gipson Auto Tire, Inc.

Steve Westmoreland

Westmoreland Tire Co.

Co-Executive Directors

Cheryl Lentz

Sabrina Lentz Knop

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Annual General Membership Business Meeting

The Annual General Membership Business Meeting for the ATDA was held on Friday afternoon, July 26th

at 4:00. The meeting was called to order by President Steve Westmoreland. Mr. Westmoreland began the meeting by thanking all of our convention sponsors, especially our Platinum sponsors. Chaplain Dolan Davis provided a word of prayer to open the meeting. The following business was conducted at the meeting:

Executive Director Sabrina Knop read the minutes from the 2014 Annual General Membership Business Meeting. Frank Harcrow made a motion to accept the minutes as read and Mike Craft seconded the motion. The minutes were approved as presented.

Secretary/Treasurer Mike Craft presented a financial report outlining the 2014 & 2015 profit reports.

o The 2014 Convention netted a profit of $8,067.97.

o Our 2015 Membership Dues increased over 2014 by $750.00.

o In 2014, the ATDA hosted a Regional Scholarship Fundraiser Golf Tournament that raised $1119.23 for the Scholarship Foundation.

o The ATDA has begun offering ATS Training Classes. The first class was in October 2014 and had a net loss of $338.75. The second class was held in January of 2015 with a net loss of $77.08. These classes are held as a benefit to our members and are not being used as a profit center for the Association.

o Overall, the Association is financially stable. Tony Lentz made a motion to accept the financial report as presented and Bob Gipson seconded the motion. The financial report was approved as presented.

President Steve Westmoreland gave his State-of-the-Association Address. He explained that the Association has grown in 2015, adding 9 new retail members and 6 new supplier members, giving the Association a total membership of 190. This year the Association was able to award 10 scholarships for a total of $12,000. Two TIA-certified ATS Training courses were offered in October 2014 and January 2015 with 15 owner/managers being trained. The ATDA Board of Directors has worked to provide the Association members with two new membership benefits: Ignite Payments and Optimize Social Media. The ATDA has 2 representative seats on the Scrap Tire Commission and through that representation were able to protect the interests of Alabama tire dealers against harmful legislation. Mr. Westmoreland ended his address by thanking the Board members for all of their hard work over the past year.

Nominating Committee Chairman Mike Griffin presented the nominations for the 2015-16 Board of Directors: o President – Shane Adams, Trax Tires, Mobile, AL o 1

st Vice President – Mike Craft, Chelsea Tire Pros, Chelsea, AL

o 2nd

Vice President – Jim Caton, Andalusia Tire Co, Andalusia, AL o Secretary/Treasurer – Howie Johnston, Tire Engineers, Birmingham, AL o Director – Greg East, Affordable Tire & Repair, Woodland, AL o Director – Bobby Gillespie, Gillespie Tire & Automotive, Prattville, AL o Supplier Representative – Tom Dutton, American Tire Distributors, Birmingham, AL o Supplier Representative – Frank Harcrow, Mohawk Rubber Sales, Fultondale, AL o Supplier Representative – Mickey Hooten, NAPA Genuine Parts Co, Birmingham, AL o Supplier Representative – Steve Mattis, Hornsby Tire Distributors, Dothan, AL

Mike Craft seconded the nominations and the nominees were elected to their perspective positions.

George Booth from Optimize Social Media spoke to the membership about his company and the services they offer. Optimize Social Media is the ATDA’s new preferred provider for Social Media Services.

Scott Armstrong from Ignite Payments addressed the members about his company and the new opportunity for lower credit card processing rates provided through the petroleum interchange umbrella that Ignite has secured for ATDA members. Ignite Payments is the ATDA’s new preferred provider for Credit Card Processing.

Convention Chairman Shane Adams closed the meeting by outlining the format for the Vendor Fair and the remainder of the weekend. Bob Gipson made a motion to adjourn the meeting and Tom Westmoreland seconded the motion. The meeting was adjourned.

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FREE DELIVERY

Welcome New Members:

Ignite Payments Optimize Social Media Jim Maddox George Booth & April Anderson 7000 Goodlett Farms Pkwy 442 Hayward Ave N Cordova, TN 38016 Oakdale, MN 55128 901-371-8163 855-676-1212 Fax: 402-916-7124 www.optimizesocialmedia.net www.ignitepayments.com george@optimizesocialmedia.net jim.maddox@firstdata.com april@optimizesocialmedia.net

The ATDA is proud to offer NEW Preferred Providers…

ATDA Member Only Special Offer: Tingo Pay & Ignite Payments provides our members a low cost credit card processing program tailored to fit each member’s needs. ATDA Member Special Program Pricing: Interchange Plus Pricing (.35% +

$0.15 per transaction), with $25.00 monthly fee for TransArmour PCI Protection and e-statements, no early termination fees, no rate increases, no annual fees, net billing, and guaranteed rates. Gift Card / Loyalty Card Programs are available. For more information, contact Scott Armstrong at 334-202-8106 or scott.armstrong@tingopay.com.

ATDA Members Only Special Offer: Optimize Social Media can help create successful social media strategies tailored to fit your business. With over 860 million daily social media users, you have a very large audience and their perception matters. We show you how to make social media a powerful marketing and PR tool while maintaining and monitoring your sites for you. Social media setup or improvement for sites like Facebook, Twitter, Google+, YouTube, Foursquare, Yelp, etc. Design custom banners and profile photos. Maintenance and daily monitoring of all sites for

spam and negative comments. Design creative & engaging content with a minimum of 5 posts a week (Facebook & Twitter). Create or link your Coupons, Specials, Contests, Giveaways and Sweepstakes. Connect and personalize the online experience with your customers. Interact and cultivate relationships to increase customer satisfaction. Extend your reach to your target audience. Convey the genuine message of your business and market your brand. Maintain integrity and your reputation with prompt respectful responses to negative feedback. Increase your SEO by keeping your Google+ page(s) active. Contact April Anderson or George Booth at Optimize Social Media, Inc. at 1-855-676-1212, or visit www.optimizesocialmedia.net.

Welcome to the Family!

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Golf Tournament

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Mullet Toss

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Winners - Biggest Red Snapper - Stephen Strickland & Bud Adams

Golf Tournament

1st Place – 2nd Place – 3rd Place - Pat Weaver Mike Craft Mark Aiken Keith Johnson Terry Treesh Ace Ventura Sam Johnson Shane Adams Bobby Gillespie

Howie Johnston Bob Gipson

Putting Contest Winner – George Booth Longest Drive – John Lamb Closest to the Pin – Mike Craft

Mullet Toss Men’s Division Winner – Stephen Strickland Women’s Division Winner – Buffy Roberson

Kid’s Division (12 & Under) Winner – Peyton Knop

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Vendor Fair Our Platinum Sponsors hosted a Vendor Fair on Friday afternoon to meet-and-greet with our members.

Children’s Program On Friday evening, while the adult’s enjoyed the Vendor Fair and Friday Night Opening Program, the children had their own program of activities.

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Silent Auction Each year at the Annual Convention, the Board of Directors holds a Silent Auction to benefit the ATDA Scholarship Foundation. From jewelry to collectibles, there is something for everyone in the Silent Auction. Each year, the Scholarship Foundation awards scholarships to deserving youth from our membership. These scholarships are made possible through fundraisers like the Silent Auction. Bidding began Friday night at the Opening Reception and concluded at Saturday night’s Scholarship Awards Banquet. This year’s Silent Auction raised $2,614.00.

2015 Silent Auction Prizes & Winners Firestone Collectable Tractor – Eddie Hardwick Buck Knife – Carol Bedsole Alabama “Unstoppable” Print – Kym Hornsby Nutri Ninja – Kira Craft Auburn Bookends – Todd Mitchell Wine Purse – Steve David Bracelet – Kelly Simpson Scout Bag – Steve David Remote Helicopter – Nathan Simpson Yeti Cups (2) – Dolan Davis Yeti Cups (4) – Jane Thompson Yeti Cups (2) – Kay Dockery Firestone Chairs (2) – Debbie Wages NAPA Tool Box – Greg East Alabama Wrought Iron Wall Hanger – Bobby Wickham Choco-Holic Basket – Hayden Freese Elephant Hook & “A” – Bobby Wickham Blue Tooth Speaker – Nathan Freese Yeti 30 oz Cups (2) – Joy Whaley Purse – Heather Freese Yeti Cooler – Sterling Yearber Big Al Statue – Ace Ventura Elephant Hook & “A” – Lori Adams Yeti Cups (2) – Amanda Russell Alabama Bookends – Lori Adams

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Birmingham Mobile

Distribution Center Distribution Center

Mike Brown Tony Miller

866-907-9463 800-475-1876 16 25

Friday Night Dinner

Following the Platinum Sponsor Vendor Fair, attendees enjoyed a Tuscan Sunset Buffet Dinner. Golf Tournament and Fishing Expedition winners were announced and presented their prizes. The Platinum Sponsors also had an opportunity to hold door prize drawings from their booth visitors.

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Saturday Evening Banquet

Saturday Evening’s Scholarship Banquet featured a Southern Bayou Buffet Dinner. After the Silent Auction bidding was closed, the 2015 Scholarship Recipients were awarded. Following those presentations, the Scholarship Pledge Drive was conducted. As the Scholarship Program was concluded, Roger Hornsby was inducted into the ATDA Hall of Fame. To close the convention, plaques were presented to retiring Board members Mike Griffin, Terry Treesh, and Bill Jenkins, and the passing of the gavel from Steve Westmoreland to Shane Adams.

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During the Saturday morning Educational Session, the attendees were involved in a panel discussion of industry hot topics. Our Professionals Panel included:

Trey Velleggia from Federated Insurance;

Kevin Rohlwing from Tire Industry Association;

Shane Adams from Trax Tires, President ATDA;

Don Tandy from Tandy Engineering & Associates;

Alan Thomas from Huie, Fernambucq & Stewart, LLP;

Bob Gipson from Gipson’s Tire Pros, Past President ATDA;

Jeff Ash from Huie, Fernambucq & Stewart, LLP;

and Scott Armstrong from Ignite Payments. Topics discussed included:

Cyber Security and its effects on our industry

EMV Processing & PCI Compliance for Credit Card Transactions o October 1, 2015 is the deadline to be EMV/PCI compliant for

all credit card transactions. Among other requirements, this means you must have a terminal capable of processing EMV chip cards, the terminal must be customer-facing, and you must have policies/procedures to prevent identity theft.

Liabilities concerning “tire-aging” and used tires. Recommendations from the panel included: o Documenting the tire age of every tire on the vehicle, regardless of service, on the invoice and have

the customer acknowledge with a signature. o When selling used tires, identify the tire as used on the invoice, with the date and storage conditions.

Have the customer acknowledge with a signature.

Liabilities concerning tire placement. Recommendations from the panel included: o When only selling two new tires, always place them on the back. o If a customer refuses this recommendation, acknowledge the recommendation on the invoice and

have the customer sign, or refuse the sale.

Tire Registration. o The RMA is currently working to pass national legislation that would require mandatory tire

registration and would impose steep fines and penalties on independent tire dealers while excluding manufacturers and company-owned stores. This legislation was first introduced in the GROW America Act and was defeated. RMA has since tried to attach it to various bills as an amendment. TIA and ATDA are opposed to this legislation.

o TIA proposes the “TIN to VIN Voluntary Tire Registration Program”.

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TIA Suggests Tire Registration, Recall Solution by Tire Review Staff - July 22, 2015

During a telephone press conference yesterday, the Tire Industry Association, together with the Safety Institute and Families for Safer Recalls, asked Congress and the NHTSA to support reform that requires uniform electronic scan-ability of tires to increase recall success. Scan-ability could be in the form of RFID or other technology, the groups said. Language in current legislation shifts the burden, liability and expense of collecting registration data to independent tire dealers, TIA said. TIA claims such language allows “tire manufacturers to just step away,” and would resurrect an “archaic pencil and paper system that did not work.” “We believe that tires can and should be machine readable and dealers need appropriate scan tools to quickly and accurately pick up that information,” said Roy Littlefield, executive vice president of TIA.

“Technology has come a long way in 40 years. Let’s utilize those advances and ensure meaningful reform,” he noted. TIA requested Congress remove specific tire related language from S. 1732, supported by the Rubber Manufacturers Association, and hold off on any legislation until the National Transportation Safety Board completes its report later this year. Once the NTSB reaches its conclusion, interested parties — safety groups, associations,

agencies and manufacturers — can come together to work on a “meaningful” reform, TIA said.

“We can then come together, respond to the recommendations, address gaps that we can recognize in the current system — such as the difficulty in following a tire when the vehicle changes ownership, car owners changing addresses — and the unique issues with the used tire market, and do what is right, ensure meaningful reform for public safety,” Littlefield said. In addition to assisting with tire registration, scan-able tires can also help increase recovery rates in the event of a tire recall, TIA noted. “What machine readability and electronic identification does is it enables the dealer at the point of sale or at the point of service to scan those tires and make a recommendation or make a determination immediately whether or not that tire has been subjected to a recall in the past,” said Kevin Rohlwing, senior vice president of training for TIA. Currently, the process of discovering if a tire has been recalled is tedious, he said. A tire dealer must write down the name of the tire, brand, size and TIN with a pencil and paper, then go inside and search a website for that tire. The process can be long and is subject to human error. A scanner could tell the dealer instantly if the tire had been recalled, Rowling said. “We’re already using what you call a test before you touch procedure with tire pressure monitoring systems and that could very easily be applied to tires as well,” he said. “All of our members are concerned about safety and want to make sure that their customers are on safe tires. But the only way that we can really do that in a mass system or in a nationwide program is if we do have that machine readability and that electronic identification so we can scan that tire and then the scanner itself will then give us a go or a no-go whether or not that tire has been subjected to a recall. continued on next page…

Michelin already utilizes RFID in some of its truck tires.

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“We are totally in favor of reform, but again we just feel that it just needs to be focused on recovery, and registration’s just become a part of that.” If current legislation is passed, TIA said it still has options that include working with NHTSA or Congress to get its suggestion implemented. The RMA is not opposed to exploring scan-able technology to collect TIN information from tires, but is looking for an immediate solution to get tire registration rates up, Dan Zielinski, senior vice president for public affairs of the RMA, told Tire Review. “If the technology is suitable, appropriate, available and cost effective then the regulatory process with help decide that after legislation is passed,” he said. “We know one thing for sure, we’re not going to get improved tire registration by having it be consumer directed. Step one, is we have to change where tires are registered in order to get that information to the manufacturers who need it to alert people that they might have a serious problem with their tires.” Zielinski is unsure of the total cost for tire manufacturers to implement RFID chips but said the process would take years to implement and reform is needed now. “Maybe RFID is part of the answer maybe it is the answer at some point right now it would take years to get that type of system and infrastructure needed to have everyone be able to read them,” he said. Zielinski noted the old way of registering tires might not be the end-all solution, but if tire registration rates can improve from the 15% they are now back to the 40-50% rates they were with card legislation, that would be a vast improvement. “We’re technology neutral we want a better system that works. The consumer directed registration has failed. A voluntary system isn’t going to work,” he said. Once the responsibility of tire registration is shifted from the consumer, groups can meet and discuss how technology might be able to assist with registration, which technologies are best and how to implement that technology, Zielinski said.

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Tire Registration Now Strapped to Senate Highway Bill by Tire Review Staff - July 17, 2015

On July 15, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation approved a multi-year transportation bill that contains the tire performance standards and tire registration provisions of the previously introduced Senate Bill 1741. The bipartisan S.1741 was introduced last week in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC), co-sponsored by Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS). The Tire Efficiency, Safety and Registration Act of 2015 (TESR Act) would create minimum tire performance standards for tire fuel efficiency and wet traction; improve manufacturers’ ability to contact consumers in the event of a tire recall; and create a Web-based tool for consumers and tire dealers to more easily determine whether a tire is subject to a safety recall. It is now also part of S.1732, Comprehensive Transportation and Consumer Protection Act of 2015, which is sponsored by Sen. John Thune (R-SD), Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE), Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS). The bill will advance in combination with S.1647 (the DRIVE Act), previously approved by the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, and component legislation from other Senate committees to form legislation commonly referred to as “The Highway Bill” or the “Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill.” Commerce Committee chairman Sen. John Thune (R-SD), said: “The committee incorporated important bipartisan safety enhancements and approved a bill that enacts critical regulatory reforms. We worked hard to include input from both sides of the aisle, and we now have a bill that can move forward towards enacting a multi-year transportation reauthorization bill versus passing additional short-term extensions.” According to the RMA, which backs S.1741, the Senate has reserved time over the next two weeks to debate a long-term highway bill, but a number of hurdles remain before it can be considered.

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2015 Hall of Fame Inductee: Roger Hornsby Hornsby Tire Distributors, Dothan

The newest inductee into the Hall of

Fame began his esteemed career under less

than glamorous conditions. He began his

career under the strict tutelage of his father

within the confines of a small enterprise. His school days were almost

always followed up with long hours in the business learning the work

ethic and skills it would take to one day build a thriving company.

Mr. Roger Hornsby has led Hornsby Tire Distributors from its humble roots – beginning

with a small renovated church in Ariton, Alabama, and one International pickup truck – into its

current form. The company has been a member of the Alabama Tire Dealers Association for

many years, and Roger served on the Board of Directors from

1998-2002. In the years since, Roger has always spoken very

highly of the Association.

Since his days on the Board of the Alabama Tire Dealers

Association, Roger has been committed to his family, his

company, and his community. He and his gracious wife, Kym,

have raised two outstanding children in Carter and Taylor.

Over the years he has served on a number of other Boards in an

effort to better his community.

The tire industry is a tight knit collection of special individuals. Many of you know

Roger personally, and many more have had business dealings with him over the years. As

many of you can attest, if you have ever dealt with Roger, you know that he is a man of

integrity and principals.

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2015 Scholarship Recipients

Stephen Caton Sponsored by Andalusia Tire Co Andalusia, AL

Parents: Todd & Jackie Caton

Caton is 2012 Summa Cum Laude graduate of The Andalusia High School. After graduating Valedictorian of his class, he continued his education at Auburn University in the College of Science and Mathematics pursuing a degree in Biomedical Sciences, Pre-Pharmacy. While an undergrad, Caton served as Editor-in-Chief of Auburn's yearbook, The Glomerata, as well as the president of his social fraternity. In August, Caton will begin his studies at the James Harrison School of Pharmacy at Auburn University to pursue a Doctorate of Pharmacy.

Hope Braiden Davis Sponsored by Southside Davis Tire Tuscaloosa, AL

Parents: Keith Davis & Jennifer Davis

My name is Hope Davis and I am the grandchild of Vicki and Dolan Davis. I am a freshman at Shelton State Community College and will be pursuing an English degree. In high school I was involved in many associations including National Honor Society, Key Club, Interact, Jr. Civitan, HHS Show Choir, HHS Color Guard, and was named both a Top Senior, as well as an Academic All Star. I graduated with a 3.8 GPA and was in the top ten percentage of my class. I would like to thank this organization for giving me the opportunity to pursue a career and share my love for English with others.

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Rachel Lee Ellis Sponsored by Westmoreland Tire Co Ft. Payne, AL

Parents: LaVaughn & Tina Ellis

Rachel is the daughter of LaVaughn and Tina Ellis, and she is a graduate of Fort Payne High School. While in high school, Rachel was involved in various clubs and organizations such as National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Spanish Honor Society, Key Club, Future Teachers of Alabama, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and Student Council as the Senior class Secretary. She is also very active with her youth group and youth choir at First Baptist Church in Fort Payne. She also works part-time at Mother’s Day Out Preschool in Fort Payne. Rachel plans on attending Northeast Alabama Community College for two years while majoring in Elementary Education and later transferring to a four year university.

Hayden Kaylor Freese Sponsored by Hornsby Tire Distributors Dothan, AL

Parents: Todd & Robin Mitchell, Jeff & Heather Freese

As a 2015 graduate of GW Long High School, Hayden plans to pursue a Multimedia

Journalism major at Troy University in the fall. Upon graduation she plans to seek a career in Broadcasting. “With my degree, I hope to become a strong advocate for education in my community and eventually in my state by serving my peers.”

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Morgan Sydney Freese Sponsored by Hornsby Tire Distributors Dothan, AL

Parents: Todd & Robin Mitchell, Jeff & Heather Freese

As a 2015 graduate of GW Long High School, Morgan plans to attend Troy University majoring in Accounting. Upon graduation with her Masters of Accountancy she plans to complete the requirements of the CPA exam and pursue a career in Public Accounting. “A college education will grant me with the necessary tools to obtain many goals of mine, and I know it will give me confidence to strive toward success in my future.”

Nathan Jeffrey Freese Sponsored by Hornsby Tire Distributors Dothan, AL

Parents: Todd & Robin Mitchell, Jeff & Heather Freese

As a 2015 graduate of GW Long High School, Nathan plans to attend Troy University majoring in Exercise Science.

Upon graduation he plans to attend Physical Therapy school and pursue a career in Physical Therapy. “Attending Troy University will benefit me in many ways and have a positive effect on what lies ahead for me as an adult. I will be preparing myself for my future career as well as increasing skills, knowledge, and potential in my desired field of employment.”

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Nicholas Glen Griffin Sponsored by S & S Tire Birmingham, AL

Parents: Mike & Tracy Griffin

Recipient of the Carl Curry Memorial Scholarship Nicholas graduated from Cullman High School in 2013. He will receive his Associate’s Degree in Science from Wallace State Community College in July 2015. Already enrolled in the University of North Alabama for the Fall of 2015, Nicholas plans to major in Communications, with the goal of becoming a Sports Journalist.

Haileigh Alayna Stiegler Sponsored by Top Line Tires Huntsville, AL Parents: Mark & Tracy Steigler

Haileigh Stiegler is an upcoming Sophomore at Faulkner University. She is planning on earning a degree in Elementary Education, and to one day be a school counselor. She will be staying busy this fall with

three jobs, a full load of classes, and being a part of the service club Phi Lambda. She is very grateful for the generosity of Alabama Tire Dealers Association the past two years. Thank you!

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Stephen Monroe Strickland Sponsored by Royal Tire Service Sylacauga, AL

Parents: Barry & Laura Strickland

Stephen Monroe Strickland is a 2015 graduate of Sylacauga High School. He was a 3 year letterman of both the football

and baseball team. He was selected as a permanent team captain for the football team and received the Coaches Award for baseball. Stephen served as President of the “S” Club at Sylacauga High School. Stephen will be playing football at Huntingdon College in Montgomery. He is a recipient of the Cross and Flame Scholarship. His major will be History Education with plans to receive his masters as a football graduate assistant. Ultimately, Stephen would like to coach football at the college level. He is an active member of First United Methodist Church in Sylacauga, AL. Stephen has worked as an employee of Royal Tire Service for four years.

Garrett Alec Thompson Sponsored by Road-Mart Ozark, AL

Parents: Monica German

After graduation I will be attending Auburn University to pursue a degree in either Business or Engineering, possibly a combination of both. It is my desire to gain employment with a large corporation and eventually

climb the ladder of success to become CEO or own my own company.

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Business Groups Urge Healthcare Reform by Tire Review Staff - July 22, 2015

The National Retail Federation and 23 other business groups wrote to Congress urging healthcare reform in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling to uphold the Affordable Care Act. “We write to urge Congress to put priority attention toward easing the cost and compliance burdens associated with the Affordable Care Act,” the letter stated. “Though the broader debate continues with respect to the ACA overall, there are numerous bipartisan bills that could bring real relief to the employers we represent and their employees.” The letter called for broad and urgent action by the end of the year and was signed by the NRF and 23 groups representing retailers, restaurants, supermarkets, franchises, insurance, human resources and other industries.

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Warren Tire is Servicing Locals, Students by Shana O'Malley - April 30, 2015

Warren Tire & Auto Center has been a trusted family business in the heart of Tuscaloosa, Ala., for more than 50 years. When Jimmy Warren started the business on University

Blvd. in 1961, he never could have imagined how much his small southern town would grow over the years, thanks to a large degree to the University of Alabama. “It was a Texaco gas station with a little two-bay garage,” Warren Tire general manager Brad Johnson says of the dealership’s humble start. As college enrollment grew, Warren decided to expand to an eight-bay shop and full service gas station about a quarter mile down the road from his first location. “He bought that in 1976, and we’ve been at this location ever since,” Johnson says. “We’re literally right on campus.” In the nearly 40 years since, the college grew and grew around his business. Today, Bama boasts a student enrollment of more than 35,000, more than 60% attending from out of state. Thousands of faculty and staff have come from all over the world to work in some of Alabama’s renowned academic programs. While Jimmy Warren retired in 2006, the dealership has remained in good hands. His son, David Warren, grew up in the business and purchased the shop from his father in 2008. “He began working here when he was literally 10 years old,” Johnson says. “He went on service calls and changed tires, and he’s been here ever since.”

Johnson joined the business in 2005 after graduating from Alabama, while David’s two sons, Russ and Parker, have also recently joined in the family business. Big Changes Johnson says there was only one big change David made when he took over. “Jimmy Warren said as long as he was down here he was going have gasoline, and the day he retired, we cut the gas off,” Johnson says. He explains that the full service gasoline side of the business was too hard to turn a profit on, so they decided to focus on the more profitable

vehicle service and tire sales. Today, Johnson says business is split about 60% service and 40% tires. They keep about 1,700 tires in their inventory, so they can get customers on the road as quick as possible. They have a staff of 20 at the University Blvd. location and another five employees that work at a nearby overflow repair shop. “It’s a four-bay garage, and it helps us do extra repair work that we can’t get to here,” Johnson says. He says several employees have dedicated their careers to the dealership. “Three technicians here have got 20-plus years, and two technicians have been here over 25 years,” he says. As the university has grown so has the town itself, and Johnson says there’s competition on every corner. “We have a Sears, Firestone, Pep Boys, Express Oil Change, another local independent store with a few locations, and all your major car dealerships,” Johnson says. Whether you’re a student in town for a few years, or if your family has been in the area for generations, the staff at Warren Tire treats every customer with the hospitality for which the South is known. “When people come in here to get their car worked on, they’re not happy to be here,” he says. “So we try to create the best customer experience when they’re here. Our goal is to make sure they feel warm and welcomed and that they get quality service.” He says personal relationships with customers make all the difference. “You really have to sell service,” he says. “We care more about you and your kids, than your car. We want you to be comfortable and safe, and if you have a problem, we’re here to help you and try to make the frustration of car repair easier.”

continued on next page…

Three generations of Warren family members work at Warren Tire in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

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Turning Pro Warren Tire & Auto Service is part of the Tire Pros dealer marketing group family, giving customers a nationwide warranty on all the work that comes out of the shop. Johnson says its warranty has been a selling

point to the parents of out-of-state students attending Alabama. “We’ll talk to their mom and dad and tell them, ‘If they have any problem on their way home from school, it’s going to be taken care of,’ and that gives them peace of mind,” he says. Johnson says the marketing and business

advice offered though Tire Pros has also been useful. “They really are a well-oiled machine, and they know exactly what it takes to be successful in the tire industry,” he says. “There’s not another program out there that offers the training and expertise and knowledge that Tire Pros has.” When it comes to advertising, Johnson says it’s always important to keep your name out there, even if you have a 50-plus year reputation. “We still buy ads in the football programs, and I buy billboards on the baseball fields,” he says. Again, the affiliate with the ‘Bama sports community pays dividends. The Warren family is also well known in the community. Since retiring, 82-year-old Jimmy Warren spends most of his free time as a volunteer at DCH Regional Medical Center where he greets patients and families at the front entrance. He also volunteers for Meals on Wheels and is an active member of his church. “He checks in with us at least once a week, and sometimes he’ll drive the shuttle for us as long as it’s not on one of the days he volunteers,” Johnson adds. The shop operates a full shuttle service, which goes around town and throughout campus. “We have a few retired guys that take turns driving for us,” Johnson says. They also have a small waiting area decorated with Crimson Tide memorabilia. “We’re all huge Alabama fans,” he says. “Every coach’s photo is on the wall. We have a coaching wall of fame.” They also have various posters and game calendars on display. “A lot of the athletes will come in and they’ll show us who they are on the poster,” he adds. Johnson credits the Warren’s success to Jimmy’s two longtime business philosophies: “The customer is always right” and “Never sell someone something they don’t need.” “These folks are honest, they care about doing business the right way,” Johnson says. “They give people the benefit of the doubt, no matter what. “Our kids go to school with their kids. It’s more than working on a car. We see them at PTA meetings and football games. We would much rather that be a pleasant experience when we see them outside of the store.”

Hornsby Tire Expanding Footprint by Tire Review Staff - June 24, 2015

Hornsby Tire Distributors is expanding into the Mobile, Ala.,

market with a new distribution center in Dothan.

The company’s 5th distribution center will allow Hornsby to

better serve the greater Mobile market, it said.

“The greater Mobile market – including Pensacola, Fla. – has

been on our expansion list for some time,” said CEO Steve

Mattis. “Our team determined that the time was favorable for

an expansion into the greater Mobile market and we are very

pleased about what we believe to be an excellent fit as we continue to build our company.”

Hornsby Tire Distributors was founded in 1967. The company serves customers in Alabama, Florida,

Georgia, Tennessee, and Mississippi.

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Senate Bill Would Allow Online Product Warranty Posting by Tire Review Staff - July 17, 2015

The Senate unanimously passed legislation to allow manufacturers to meet warranty and labeling requirements for consumer products by providing warranty information online. Senate Bill 1359 has now been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for consideration. Federal Trade Commission regulations on how product warranty information must be provided to

consumers are considered murky. Under S.1359 – the E-Warranty Act of 2015 – manufacturers will have the option to post warranty information on their websites instead of having to print warranty information and include it with products. Currently, the FTC doesn’t require companies to provide a written warranty; however, those that do must comply with the agency’s rules. It is unclear how this bill might impact tire manufacturers, marketers and distributors. However, it would certainly impact vehicle parts and accessories that would be sold by tire stores. S.1359 requires companies posting warranty information online to alert consumers about how to access their website; this could be but printing that information on packaging or in any accompanying manual. In addition, they must accommodate those without Internet service with access to warranty information via mail or by phone.

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II Riverchase Office STE. 105 Hoover, AL 35244

B & B Tire Landfill, Inc.

Tire Disposal PROFESSIONALS!

Bud and Barbara Adams Hayden, AL

Phone: (205) 647-6736 Fax: (205) 647-7139

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800-877-2431

Nathan Keaton

215 Avenue C

Carrollton, GA 30117

Wholesale Distributor Exclusive Marketing Areas

Complete Product Lines

High Performance Tires

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More Than Competitive Pricing

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Chaplain’s Corner “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9 On Friday afternoon, June 19, Carl Curry of McGriff Tire performed a truck tire service on an interstate Alabama highway as he had done hundreds of times before for other truckers who had tire trouble. By all indications he had taken required safety precautions and was finished with the service. While standing beside the cab of his customer’s truck, he was struck by a passing trucker and tragically killed. I visited his wife and his employers at the funeral home visitation. The message I heard repeatedly was that Carl Curry was a hard working employee that would do anything needed for his family or someone in need.

It is the “age-old” question that has been asked throughout history. Why does bad things happen to good people? I am in no way qualified to respond to that question. However the Word of God is and gives this answer in the verse above: God knows and only God knows and He has to give an explanation to no one! I am ok with that because I can certainly trust the wisdom of a God who loved me enough to let His Son die on a Cross to provide forgiveness for my sin. Please continue to pray for Judy Curry and her family. God bless.

Dolan Davis Jr. Chaplain 205 758 6624 dolan@davistires.com

Jones Interstate Tire Selma, Alabama

855-512-4003 Fax: 334-874-2290

Columbus, Mississippi 800-239-6640

Pensacola, Florida 800-239-6825

VENEZIA AMERICUS Lawn Mower Boat Trailer

Farm Tires Honesty and Dependability

Our Way of Doing Business

PS. You can make donations to the Carl Curry Scholarship fund by mailing

your check to ATDA, 6096 County Road 434, Trinity, AL 35673.

Congratulates the 2015

Scholarship Recipients:

Stephen Caton Andalusia Tire Co, Andalusia

Hope Davis Southside Davis Tire, Tuscaloosa

Rachel Ellis Westmoreland Tire Co, Ft. Payne

Hayden Freese Hornsby Tire Distributors, Dothan

Morgan Freese Hornsby Tire Distributors, Dothan

Nathan Freese Hornsby Tire Distributors, Dothan

Nicholas Griffin S & S Tire, Birmingham

Haileigh Stiegler Top Line Tires, Huntsville

Stephen Strickland Royal Tire Service, Sylacauga

Alec Thompson Road-Mart, Ozark

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Calendar of Events

ATDA Board of Directors Meeting Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Gipson’s Tire Pros, Prattville, Alabama

Scrap to Profit Conference October 28-29, 2015

Holiday Inn Express, Latham, New York

2015 SEMA Show November 3-6, 2015

Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada The SEMA Show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world.

Alabama SWANA Chapter

Fall Forum

Wednesday – Friday, November 4 – 6, 2015

STC Luncheon Meeting – Thursday, November 5th

Guntersville State Park Lodge

ATDA 2016 Annual Convention June 24-25, 2016

Perdido Beach Resort, Orange Beach, AL

Proposal would boost federal minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2020 Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) introduced legislation that would boost the federal minimum wage to $15.00 an hour by 2020 - a considerable jump from its current $7.25 an hour. The proposed legislation, the Pay Workers a Living Wage Act, would raise the minimum wage in increments until it reaches $15.00 an hour in 2020. Under the proposed schedule, hourly minimum wage would be increased to $9.00 in 2016; $10.50 in 2017; $12.00 in 2018; $13.50 in 2019; and $15.00 in 2020. The federal minimum wage has not been raised since 2009.

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2015 Convention Sponsors PPPlllaaatttiiinnnuuummm SSSpppooonnnsssooorrrsss

American Tire Distributors Federated Insurance

Hornsby Tire Distributors Kauffman Tire

McPherson Oil / Castrol Mohawk Rubber Sales

O’Reilly Auto Parts S & S Tire

TCi Tire Centers

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Bridgestone Americas / Westmoreland Tire Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. NAPA Genuine Auto Parts

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B & B Tire Landfill Carroll Tire

Hunter Engineering Jones Interstate Tire Co.

McGriff Industries Myers Tire Supply

Nexen Tire Parrish Tire Co.

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ASA Automotive Continental Tire Ignite Payments Jim Whaley Tires

Optimize Social Media Southside Davis Tire

The Spare Tire is a publication of Alabama Tire Dealers Association. The Spare Tire is published 6 times a year as a

source of information for ATDA members and supporters. ATDA directors, staff and members do not necessarily agree

with all the contents or opinions appearing in this publication nor should its readers rely on any of the Spare Tire

content for support of any legal position. On matters involving legal interpretation, the reader is advised and

encouraged to rely solely upon the advice of his or her own hired legal counsel. The Spare Tire invites and encourages

comments from its readers.