January, February, March - Automotive Parts & Service Association ...

Volume 52 ‐ Issue 1 JAN| FEB | MAR 2010 Official Magazine of APSA of Illinois
Welcome New Members!
Automotive Electric of Kewanee, Kewanee
Evans Repair Shop, Bloomington
Gates Repair & Machine, Inc., Barry
Lee’s Auto Body, Pana
Murphysboro High School, Murphysboro
Perfection Paint & Body Works, Taylorville
Piercy Auto Body, Inc., Carlock
Pro Stitch Auto Interiors, Inc., Taylorville
Rock’s Advanced Car Care, LLC, Effingham

APSA of Illinois - Get Connected
APSA of Illinois Staff
Executive Vice President
Matt Wells
matt@apsail.com
Comptroller
Marsha Fogleman
marsha@apsail.com
Product Services Manager
Bill Richards
bill@apsail.com
Membership Services
Sue Brookman
sue@apsail.com
Membership Consultants
Penny Bagby
sjb32577@myexcel.com
Greg Williams
greg@apsail.com
Newsletter Information
Editor
Matt Wells
Mail editorial news, notices and
correspondence to:
APSA of Illinois
6450 South Sixth Street Road
Springfield, Illinois 62712-6818
(217) 786-2850 or (800) 369-2964
Fax (217) 529-3705 or (800) 779-1179
www.apsail.com
Article and Advertisement
Deadlines
December 15 for January
March 10 for April
June 10 for July
September 15 for October
Commentary/Editorials
President’s Message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
APSA of Illinois Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Message from the Executive Vice President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2009-2010 Officer’s and Director’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Legislative Update
Under the Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Uniform Speed Limit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Illinois Text Messaging Ban . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Member Highlights
McKay NAPA Thankful for Make-A-Wish Donors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
New Member Profile - ABC Autoglass, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Membership Anniversaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Obituary - Harold B. Garrett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
On the Road with Penny Bagby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
On the Road with Greg Williams. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Scholarship Applications Deadline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
New Member Profile - Piercy Auto Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
New Member Profile - Pro Stitch Auto Interiors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Contribute to APSA of Illinois PAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Business Management
APSA of Illinois Membership Application. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
AGMERP Premium Billings Due. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Industry Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
APSA of Illinois Important Dates
January 1
APSA of Illinois Office closed - Happy New Year!!
March 17
APSA of Illinois Board of Directors’ Meeting, Springfield
April (to be determined)
Spring Meetings
June 16
APSA of Illinois Board of Directors’ Meeting, Springfield
October 6, 2010 (tentative)
APSA of Illinois Annual Conference/Event
December 8, 2010 (tentative)
APSA of Illinois Board of Directors’ Meeting, Springfield
2 • JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1
APSA of Illinois Programs
Index
Farley Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 7
Qualified Processing Services . . . . Page 8
Legal Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 10
Counter Craft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 13
Federated Insurance . . . . . . . . . . Page 14
401(k) Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15
Advertising Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15
WEB Connect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16
SuperFleet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19

Commentary
President’s Message
You are not alone,
As a business owner or manager, do you
sometimes feel that the problems you face
daily, weekly, monthly, and even annually are
unique to you I know, at times it seems as
though these situations could only happen to
me. Being on your own without the comfort of
a big corporation to help buffer and psychoanalyze
your problems can be very unnerving.
After all, "you're the man", "the backbone of
the economy", and unless you are main-lining
on some recreational substance, I’m sure the
reality of life has hit home more than once.
The overwhelming responsibility that you undertake daily is, to
say the least, daunting. People that depend on you; employees, their
families, suppliers, customers, your banker, and last but not least,
your own family, trust that you will deliver their needs daily and
make the right decisions for tomorrow. The phrase "it's lonely at the
top" rings out loud and clear. Suddenly, you've just realized that
you've signed on for more than just opening up a business and
collecting those "big bucks".
So, who do you talk to in order to calm your nerves and help
rationalize sanity in your daily grind You’re boss Oh, wait a
minute; you are him. Your buddy at the golf course He doesn't
understand, because he's in a different industry and is in middle
management. The people I’ve listed as depending on you Openness
with them beyond a certain point can be misconstrued or even
unnerving for both of you. The majority of us has faith in a higher
being and do spend a lot of time sharing thoughts, goals, and desires
in quiet meditation.
But, alas, you are not alone! We are all in it together while
remaining alone. We all share some pretty basic thoughts, goals, and
desires, not to mention the problems and mind boggling situations.
So, what is my point in all of this psycho-babble As a member of
APSA of Illinois, one the greatest benefits which we seldom speak of
is the camaraderie and access to people who have common thoughts,
goals, desires, problems and situations to ours. I certainly do not
offer this as an equal to your faith, but as a responsive supplement.
If you are not recouping this benefit from your membership, you
are short changing yourself and the people that depend on you.
Please, for your sake and mine, get involved! Volunteer for a
committee, participate in your regional town hall meeting, give the
staff or your region director feedback, attend a board or committee
meeting, or suggest an event or program which you would like to
participate. We all speak in general terms of needing education,
what better education is there than sharing personal experience
between peers.
I wish you all a very happy and prosperous New Year. Please be a
part of APSA of Illinois.
John Rice, Jr.
The Jopac Companies
ricejopac@aol.com
2009 - 2010 Board of Directors
President
John Rice, Jr.
The Jopac Companies, Bloomington
Vice President
Clinton “Wain” Taylor
Mac-Weld, Inc., Carbondale
Treasurer
Kevin Pierce
Brake & Clutch Exchange, Inc., Springfield
Secretary
Al Martin
Martin's Automotive Center, Mt. Vernon
Directors
Daniel DeMichele
Sunnyside Parts Warehouse, Chicago
Steven Fransene
The Parts House, Galesburg
Mark Hagler
Mark’s Service Center, Shorewood
Earl Flack
McKay NAPA Auto Parts, Inc., Litchfield
Jerry Chambers
Dust & Son of Macon County, Decatur
Brian C. Funk
Don’s Parts House, Mascoutah
Dean Kinkelaar
Effingham Regrinding, Inc., Effingham
Steven Rennison
The Auto Shop, Carbondale
Dick Rogers
Lincoln Land Community College, Springfield
Past President
Ken Kalina
Kalina Machine & Engine Parts, Peoria
JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1 • 3

Get Connected
Message From the Executive Vice President
By the time you read this article,
2009 has already passed us by,
and 2010 has begun. Hopefully, it
has begun better than 2009 did,
and we all look forward to the
hope of a better year.
No matter how optimistic that we
try to be, there will be a lot of
work ahead for your Association
in 2010. From the budget deficits that the state of
Illinois is facing and the national health care battle
raging in Washington D.C. to our industry struggling to
get back on its feet from within one of the worst
recessions ever seen. In times like today, it is even more
important for you to be active in your Association,
because APSA of Illinois can not help save you without
you helping yourself.
It’s hard. To find time. For anything other than what
you have to do. I understand that as well as anyone who
lives in our world today. Everyone is doing more with
less people, and yet still struggling to make ends meet.
For some reason, in our minds, we always like to think
that things were easier in the past than they are today,
which just makes every new day more difficult. What we
need to try to do is make the most of the time we have. I
can promise you, the time you spend working with APSA
of Illinois will be your most profitable.
We are going to need your help in 2010, more than we
have ever before. In the Capitol of Illinois this spring,
the budget deficit will be a major obstacle, and we expect
some creatively devastating ideas to arise for solutions.
Those ideas may end up in your lap, or costing you
money if you don’t work with APSA of Illinois to ensure
we educate your legislators that their uncontrolled
spending will not be solved by asking small businesses
in Illinois to pay more taxes. When you see an email
from APSA of Illinois requesting your help by contacting
your legislators, please take the time to make the call or
visit.
We also need you to take any opportunity you can, to tell
others in the industry about APSA of Illinois. The one
rule that Associations live by, is that there is strength in
numbers. We need the numbers, and a majority of the
industry to understand that there is an Association
looking out for their best interests, this industry, and its
survival.
I can help you with the sales pitch; it’s simple, and
effective. “If you are not part of the change, you are left
behind.” This is the value of being a member of APSA of
Illinois. We have all been behind the 8-ball, and know
how difficult it is to get back out in front. As fast as we
are seeing change in this industry, being connected to
APSA of Illinois is one of the best ways to stay ahead.
2009 - 2010 Officers & Directors
APSA of Illinois Officer’s & Director’s for
2009-2010 were sworn in by outgoing
President Ken Kalina on October 10, 2009 at
the 2009 Starting Line, that was held at the
President Abraham Lincoln Hotel in
Springfield, Illinois. The new Officer’s and
Director’s are pictured from left to right:
Region 3, Dan DeMichele; Region 8, Brian
Funk; Region 10, Steve Rennison; President,
John Rice; Treasurer, Kevin Pierce; Secretary,
Al Martin and Vice President, Wain Taylor.
4 • JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1

“Under The Dome”
The 96 th General Assembly
returns January 12 th for three
days to kick off the 2010
session. Initially, lawmakers
will be hearing Governor
Quinn’s State of the State
message and introducing
legislation before they head
into the final weeks of
campaigning for the February
2 nd Primary Election.
Following the primary, there will be more focus on what
needs to get done to address the over $11 billion deficit.
Most lawmakers I have talked with are doubtful that any
measures that propose increased spending or create any
new programs will survive this upcoming session’s
gauntlet. Lawmakers have a monumental task before
them, much of it was caused by their actions in earlier
years.
Former Governor George Ryan’s final budget (FY 2003)
saw $22.8 billion spending out of the state’s general
revenue fund (GRF). That budget was over $500 million
less than the previous fiscal year. Until the 2010 fiscal
year, budget expenditures from GRF have increased since
FY 2003. The FY 2009 budget was $29.1 billion from
GRF, a nearly 28% increase since 2003 in the face of very
difficult economic times. The budget, from GRF approved
for this fiscal year that ends June 30, 2010, was cut by
nearly 8% to $26.1 billion. However, spending overall was
increased by $3.2 billion. The independent legislative
agency, the Commission on Government Forecasting &
Accountability has indicated that revenues for the first
quarter of the 2010 fiscal year was $209 million under
budget and would have been $684 million under budget if
not for $475 million in federal sources.
Both democrat candidates for Governor are
campaigning on fixing the deficit with tax increases. Gov.
Quinn is proposing an increase in individual and
corporate income taxes, while Comptroller Hynes is
pushing a constitutional amendment to establish a
graduated tax system. Republican hopefuls for Governor
are focusing their message more on cost cuts, reforms in
government and revitalization of the economy.
The mood of the General Assembly appears to be
lacking the fortitude and vision to grapple with the
budget in a meaningful way which will lead to a
patchwork approach of more borrowing and gimmicks to
meet their constitutional requirement of approving a
balanced budget. A significant tax increase is not likely in
the political cards in 2010. However, APSA of Illinois
members need to stay abreast of what is happening in
Springfield through their APSA of Illinois legislative
alerts and publications.
APSA of Illinois Political Action Committee (PAC)
Recommendations
Speaking about the February 2 nd primary election,
several of APSA of Illinois’ legislative friends are being
challenged and I have recommended APSA of Illinois
PAC support in the following races:
In Senate District 1, Senator Tony Munoz (D-
Chicago) is being challenged by Adolfo Mondragon.
Sen. Munoz had an APSA of Illinois 2009 rating of 50.
Sen. Munoz is one of APSA of Illinois’ best democrat
supporters in the State Senate. His opponent is less
likely to understand or support our issues, especially
small business issues.
Senate District 25 sees Sen. Chris Lauzen (R-
Geneva) being tested by P. Sean Michels of Sugar
Grove. Sen. Lauzen has proven himself as a solid
supporter of the aftermarket industry and business in
general during his tenure in the State Senate. He has
championed numerous proposals in the past to address
workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance and
burdensome government regulations. He earned an
APSA of Illinois rating of 80 in 2009.
Rep. Ken Dunkin (D-Chicago) from the 4 th District
faces his most serious primary race since being elected.
Challengers are David Schroeder and Gwen Drake. Over
the past four years, his average rating has been 74 with
APSA of Illinois. Both challengers are viable opponents
but they are likely to split the vote allowing Dunkin to
win. Dunkin has been helpful to APSA of Illinois as a
member of the Insurance Committee. He has been one of
the higher rated democrats in three of the past four
General Assemblies. He was one of a handful of
democrats that voted against creating an Illinois FMLA
law.
Freshman Rep. Mike Zalewski (D-Chicago) faces
opponent Terrence Collins. In his first year in
Springfield, Mike has shown an understanding of small
business issues. His 2009 APSA of Illinois rating was 55.
This is an opportunity for APSA of Illinois to build a
relationship for the long-term.
In the 54 th District, Rep. Suzanne Bassi (R-
Palatine) faces a primary fight with a conservative,
Thomas Morrison. The 54 th District is located in the
northwest suburbs of Cook County that includes
Palatine, Inverness and South Barrington. Bassi’s 2009
APSA of Illinois rating was 95. This is a tough race
where the long-time incumbent is facing a spirited
campaign from a young, businessman. Suzie Bassi has
recently handled the window tinting issue, making
helpful changes to the law.
Rep. Sandy Cole (R-Grayslake) has been one of
APSA of Illinois’ strongest supporters in the Illinois
Continued on page 6
JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1 • 5

Illinois Issues
Under the Dome (continued from page 5)
House, since her election in 2006. She has three-year
average APSA of Illinois rating of 93. She is being
opposed by computer consultant, Paul Mitchell. Cole
represents the 62 nd District.
Rep. Dave Winters (R-Shirland), after deciding not
to run for Lt. Governor, finds himself in a race from the
candidate he recruited to replace him in the House, John
Cabello. Rep. Winters has been a good supporter of
APSA of Illinois and the business community. When he
served as spokesman of the Labor Committee, he
sponsored many small business initiatives and
vigorously opposed more government mandates on
business. He is from District 68 and has a four-year
APSA of Illinois rating of 83.
In the western Illinois 94 th District, Rep. Rich Myers
(R-Macomb) has a primary opponent named Victoria
Mohr. Rich is another solid APSA of Illinois supporter
with a four-year average rating of 91.
BE SURE TO VOTE FOR THE CANDIDATES OF
YOUR CHOICE IN THE PARTY YOU SUPPORT ON
FEBRUARY 2 nd .
Jay Shattuck
Shattuck & Associates Consulting, Inc.
Phone (217) 544-5490
email: JayDeeShattuck@att.net
Photo courtesy of Journal-News
Front Row (l-r): Norman May, Outside Sales Manager; Sue
Miller, Executive Assistant; Alison Storm, Make-A-Wish
Foundation, Springfield; Earl Flack, Vice President, COO;
Peggy Snell, Accounts Receivable/Human Resources
Manager. Middle Row: Debbie Gerdes and Charlene
Tackaberry, Accounts Payable. Back Row: Ed Hammann,
Vice President Purchasing; Allan Haenel, Vice-President
Operations; Nelson Kueker, NAPA Territory Sales
Manager; Jim McKay, President McKay NAPA Auto Parts;
and Ryan Ocepek, Regional Manager.
McKay NAPA Auto Parts Thankful
For Make-A-Wish Donors
Jim McKay, President, McKay NAPA Auto Parts,
along with Golf Benefit Coordinators Norman May and
Sue Miller, presented a check for $15,000 on November
16, 2009 to Alison Storm of the Make-A-Wish
Foundation of Illinois. The presentation was made at the
McKay NAPA Corporate Headquarters in Litchfield. The
donation, the largest in the company’s history for the
third year in a row, will sponsor wishes for three
children in Central Illinois. Wishes will be sponsored for
Ryan, 8, Bethalto; Salina, 9, Collinsville; and Jordan, 11,
Edwardsville. The money was raised at the company’s
11 th Annual McKay NAPA Auto Parts & Make-A-Wish
Golf Classic held at Woodlands Golf Club in Alton with
over 160 golfers participating.
Benefit contributors: Lee Maher & the NAPA
Corporation; Patrick Wolfe & Mt. Vernon NAPA
Distribution Center; WSMI Radio; Sievers Truck
Service; Bill Fleri, NAPA Underhood; Brad Schroeder,
Federal Mogul; Tom Burton, NAPA Heating & Cooling;
Sue Miller & Quality Wholesale; Schutt Manufacturing;
R & R Golf; Brian Luketich; Brad Iverson, DELPHI;
John Schrader, MEDCO; Dave Pickens, Affinia-NAPA
Brake & Chassis; Alton Holiday Inn; Shawnee Tefteller;
Tom Burton, NAPA Heating & Cooling; Macoupin
County Sheriff Don Albrecht; Coffee Klatch Florals;
Jack’s Auto Repair; Steve Kleekamp; Eric Stark, ASI;
and Michael Waltrip.
Hole Sponsors: Roger Jennings; Valvoline/The Ashland
Company; NAPA Mt. Vernon Distribution Center; Otey
White & Assoc.; PBE Jobbers Warehouse; NAPA Heavy
Duty; NAPA Heating & Cooling Group; Neuhaus
Heating & Air Conditioning; NAPA ESG Group; Scheller
Insurance Agency; Siever’s Truck Service; Daley
Chevrolet-Buick-Pontiac; Superior Products; Bill’s IGA;
LRE Automotive; NORTON; Macoupin County Sheriff
Don Albrecht; NAPA Brakes; Balkamp Sales Group;
Collinsville Auto Body; Martin Senour Paints; Hawkeye
Steel Sales; PPG; and ALTROM.
McKay NAPA, in business since 1937, also accepts
donations to raise funds for the annual Make-A-Wish
presentation in their 16 locations at Bethalto,
Carlinville, Carlyle, Centralia, Collinsville,
Edwardsville, Gillespie, Godfrey, Greenville, Highland,
Hillsboro, Jerseyville, Litchfield, Nokomis, Staunton and
Virden.
6 • JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1

Illinois Issues
UNIFORM SPEED LIMIT
On August 14, 2009, Governor Quinn signed
legislation that will allow Illinois to join 40 other states
that have a uniform speed limit on rural interstate
highways.
House Bill 3956, sponsored by Rep. David Reis (R-
Olney) and Sen. John Sullivan (D-Rushville), creates a
uniform 65 mph speed limit for both cars and trucks on
rural interstate highways in Illinois outside of Cook,
DuPage, Kane, McHenry, Lake and Will Counties
(where the speed limit would remain at 55 mph).
Currently, Illinois law limits vehicles over 8,000 pounds
to 55 mph on rural interstate highways while
automobiles may travel at 65 mph.
Serving Central Illinois
Since 1881
Chad A. Farley
Licensed Insurance Agent
Excellence in customer service is our top
priority. Any client, or potential client,
can be assured that he or she will receive
the highest level of personal and
professional services as various needs
evolve and are addressed. Our fast and
detailed service, along with our
dedication to our customers sets us apart
from others in the area.
The new uniform speed limit in Illinois goes into
effect on January 1, 2010 and it does not affect
secondary highways which will retain a maximum
speed limit of 55 mph or lower for all vehicles. Similar
legislation has been passed by the General Assembly
three other times in the last seven years, but was
vetoed each time by the previous administration.
Illinois will be joining 12 states that have a uniform 65
mph speed limit on their rural interstate highways: all
12 of which have a lower fatality rate on their rural
interstates than Illinois (Federal Highway
Administration “Highway Statistics” 1996-2005).
A total of 41 states will have a uniform speed limit on
their rural interstates, some at 70 and 75 mph. On July
1, 2009, Ohio also eliminated its split speed limit for
cars and trucks on its rural interstates by creating a
uniform 65 mph speed limit for all vehicles.
Call for a quote today!
(800) 500-4421
124 W. Washington Street
Newton, Illinois 62448
www.FarleyInsurance.com
JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1 • 7

New Member Profile
ABC Autoglass, Inc.
Michael and Tina Cooper
ABC Autoglass, Inc.
524 S Main Street
Jacksonville IL 62650-2977
Business: (217) 479-0222
Toll Free: (877) 479-0222
Email: zomaqueen7@yahoo.com
Type of Business: Automotive repair and replacement
Background of oneself and business Michael and
Tina have been in the business for 28 years, with
Michael starting out of high school in the windshield
installation business.
How long have you been in business ABC
Autoglass has been in business for four years and
Michael and Tina have owned the business for one year
having seen a lot of changes.
What is your most memorable moment working in
your shop Working together as business owners
Do you belong to other associations in your
community If so, what are your activities Yes,
the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and the
Kiwanis.
What insights or visions
do you see for the
automotive aftermarket
industry We see more
people taking stock in
what they have and
keeping their cars longer
and not getting new ones.
How do you make
yourself different from
your competition
Personable, locally owned and operated
Where do you see the automotive industry going
in the near future, please explain Taking care of
what they have
How is business doing Good
What are some of the challenges for your
business Getting new customers and recognition and
letting customers know we are the best.
What is next for your business Try to grow the
business. Add another full-time employee. See more
direction in the sales area with the personal touch.
The Automotive Parts & Service Association of Illinois Board
of Directors’ endorses an exceptionally successful credit card
processing service to our membership. Find out what your
fellow APSA of Illinois members already know: In a time
when customer service is often lacking, Qualified Processing
Services (QPS) provides a level of service that is
unsurpassed.
QPS partners with our members to help reduce the overall
cost of credit card processing. It is their emphasis to create
true relationships with their clients. Through relationships,
they not only teach our members how to process correctly,
but QPS also monitors their accounts to ensure they always
process correctly.
QPS will work with your company to remove the extra fees
from your merchant account statement. Their approach is
different, but the net result will be significant savings,
delivered through reduced charges and low rates.
For more information contact
APSA of Illinois (217) 786-2850 or
Nader Saweeres (866) 962-4462
APSA of Illinois Member Benefits
Five percent (5%) of the gross profitability from
member accounts will be refunded back to
participating APSA of Illinois members on an
annual basis*
Free Statement Analysis & Savings Proposal
No Obligation - 60 Day Trial Period
No Application Fee, No Set-up Costs
Free Licenses for Web-Based Processing ($300
value)
*Refunds will be proportional to processing volume
8 • JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1

Member Highlights
Obituary
Harold B. Garrett, 85, of Cambridge, passed away
Oct. 17, 2009 in Iowa City, Iowa.
Harold B. Garrett was born Jan. 1, 1924, in Galesburg,
the son of Harold B. Sr., and Cecile Hollingsworth
Garrett. He graduated from high school in Macomb in
1942 and attended college. He married Annabelle
Pollock in 1945 in Macomb. She died in April of 1963.
His marriage to Rosalie Crouch Fransene took place on
Aug. 15, 1964, in Galesburg.
Harold worked as a salesman for Sieg Company in
Galesburg. He then started his own parts business, The
Parts House, in Galesburg, in 1972 and later expanded it
to Monmouth, retiring in 1989.
He also farmed in rural Woodhull.
His memberships included Cambridge Lutheran Church
and Henry County Farm Bureau. He served on the
Board of Directors’ of the Automotive Wholesalers of
Illinois from 1976-1979 and was an active member of
Valley View Club in Cambridge, where he also had
served on the Board of Directors.
Those surviving are his wife, Rosalie; sons and
daughters-in-law, Steve and Bonnie Fransene,
Galesburg; Scott and Tory Garrett, Woodhull; daughters
and sons-in-law, Cathy and Mike Heidenreich,
Senatobia, Miss., Teddi and Jim Shipp, Galesburg; and a
daughter-in-law and her husband, Julie and Brian
Dwyer, Woodhull. Also surviving are 14 grandchildren
and 11 great grandchildren. Memorials may be made to
the Harold Garrett Memorial Fund.
40 Years
Jerry’s Auto Parts, Roscoe
Membership Anniversaries
35 Years
Thompson Auto Supply, Inc., St. Charles
30 Years
Automotive Machine, Inc., Pekin
15 Years
Service Auto Supply, Inc., Washington
Sun Auto, Inc., Chicago
10 Years
Franklin Elevator, Inc., Franklin
Lotz Trucking, Inc., Ottawa
Collision Concepts, Inc., Lincoln
O’Brien Auto Team, Normal
Naylor Automotive Engineering Co., Inc., Chicago
5 Years
Hefner’s Auto Repair, Inc., Mt. Vernon
Goreville Auto Parts, Goreville
Congratulations and thank you for your
continuous support!
“On the Road” with Penny Bagby
So many of the benefits that APSA of Illinois have today are ideas from our members and
prospective members. We listen to what the needs are from business people and those who have
been in business for many years. We all have one goal in common, and that is to make money
and have fun doing it. We need to take care of our business and our employees, so they can be
productive.
The new 401(k) Solutions program is affordable and will help you, our members, by offering a
program for your employees that will give them a reason to stay with your company. I know this
from experience. I had many offers to change from my job of 44 years with E. Blankenship &
Co., but we had a retirement plan that all of the employees were involved in and we didn’t go
looking for new jobs. If you have not sent in the survey, you need to go on our website www.apsail.com and fill one out.
It takes very little time and you will get the details of the program that will fit your needs.
We have had many of our members switch to QPS because of the ease of dealing with them, the rebate at the end of
the year and their rates. If you want to rely on APSA of Illinois for help with your business, you need to check this out.
It may not be for everyone, but if it doesn’t fit your needs, QPS will let you know.
You now have the chance to advertise in our Get Connected magazine at very affordable rates. Many individuals
throughout the state read this magazine. If you would like to place an ad in our next magazine, our deadline for the
next issue is March 10 th . Call Sue Brookman at our APSA of Illinois office at (800) 369-2964 for more information.
I have met many new prospects in the last six years with APSA of Illinois. ALL of them are good people. Some saw
the need to be part of a great association right away. Some of them it takes time to let all the benefits soak in and still
others never make a decision one way or the other. Everyone can use some of our benefits or advice on a situations you
might run across. If I can help you in any way, call me at (618) 922-3656 or email me at sjb32577@myexcel.com.
Penny Bagby, Membership Consultant
JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1 • 9

Member Highlights
“On the Road” with Greg Williams
Why not APSA of Illinois We want to work with your organization and fine tune it, in
whatever aspect we might be useful; to help cut your expenses, network you with others, or
even make an opportunity for your business. We would like to spread the word to everyone.
APSA of Illinois is an avenue of success for your business.
In my opinion, APSA of Illinois is one of those avenues to tell those around you about what
you do and how you can help your community. In other words, try to grow your business and
your community. We’ve been around for over 50 year’s and know a few opportunities for growth and prosperity for your
business. We connect people together throughout the state and, as a result, we can be utilized for your organization
and it can only benefit YOU and this industry!
Speaking of this industry, I see the Wal-Mart business model creeping into the automotive aftermarket industry and
it’s hurting the local community! You say, why The big fish! Big chain companies are buying the little ones (the little
fish) and taking away the freedom and opportunity to shape these local communities. This country was founded on the
independent small business person to make and shape our cities, our counties and our states. Taking this away, just
hurts that business opportunity and then our community. APSA Illinois is here to help those business owners
throughout the state of Illinois to “Get Connected”.
Does APSA of Illinois or the automotive aftermarket know what the next best thing is that will help your business,
“who knows” If you want to be successful, you must be one step ahead of your competition. You’ll need to find out what
your customers want. Focus in on it, and run with it, and then, opportunity will knock! Surround yourself with smart,
positive and focused business people and then things will happen, I know, I have experienced it. In other words,
continue giving me your new ideas, so that APSA of Illinois can use them to benefit your company. We want to hear it!
We want your trust, in order to shape this industry.
If we at APSA of Illinois keep moving in the direction we are going today, we will be that source for the automotive
aftermarket industry to move and shape new ideas that will change this industry for the good of all of us.
Finally, keep us informed, and let us be your guide for your continued business success today and into the future.
Thank You! Greg Williams, Membership Consultant greg@apsail.com (217) 786-2850
Scholarships Application Deadline
Automotive Parts & Service Association of
Illinois offers scholarships through the Ralph
Silverman Memorial Foundation (RSMF).
RSMF, which honors APSA of Illinois’ first
President, Ralph Silverman, is dedicated to
promoting careers and educational opportunities
that are available to students interested in the
automotive aftermarket industry.
The scholarship program provides a maximum
of six $500 scholarships per academic year, to
students pursuing a career in the automotive
aftermarket industry. Students are eligible to
apply each academic year, up to four years.
APSA of Illinois has joined other organizations
to create an online scholarship resource for
students planning to pursue careers in the
automotive aftermarket. To apply for a scholarship
and be considered for additional scholarships, go to
www.automotivescholarships.org and complete the
application.
Deadline for applications is March 31 st . Scholarships require
Illinois residency and an APSA of Illinois member sponsor.
Contact Matt Wells or Marsha Fogleman at APSA of Illinois to
find a member sponsor in your area.
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John G. Dundas
James P. Lawson
Michael P. Roush
10 • JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1

New Member Profile
Piercy Auto Body
Piercy Auto Body
Jason Hospelhorn, Owner
408 E Washington Road, Carlock IL 61725
(309) 376-2901 www.piercyautobody.com
Type of Business: Auto Body Shop
Background - Jason started in collision repair while in
high school working for Kurt’s Auto Body Repair Shop in
Bloomington. He received his accreditation in body shop
repair from Lincoln Land Community College,
Springfield. Upon graduation from Lincoln Land he
worked for Peterbilt in Bloomington and then for
Mitsubishi Motors in their paint department for eight
years.
How long have you been in business Jason saw an
opportunity to purchase Piercy Auto Body in
Bloomington in March 2006, and has been in operation
since.
What is your most memorable moment working in
your shop/counter The most memorable moment was
the first time the State of Illinois came to inspect the
building and business to make sure that the business
wasn’t a chop shop!
Do you belong to other associations in your
community If so, what are your activities - No
What insights or visions do you see for the
automotive aftermarket industry I see the industry
as helpful, but it needs to tighten up standards.
How do you make yourself different from your
competition We offer a variety of painting jobs,
including the capability of sandblasting. We also work
on large items, such as; long rails, farm machinery, large
trucks, etc.
Where do you see the automotive industry going
in the near future, please explain I see the industry
shrinking. People are not fixing and repairing their
vehicles, they are driving them around wrecked.
How is business doing We are steady.
What are some of the challenges you see in your
business Keeping everyone in the shop, busy.
What is next for your business We’ll just keep
plugging away.
Illinois Text Messaging Ban
As many of you know, Gov. Quinn has signed into law
a set of new restrictions regarding use of cell phones
while driving. The new Illinois Text Messaging Law goes
into effect on January 1, 2010.
According to the new law: "A person may not operate a
motor vehicle on a roadway while using an electronic
communication device to compose, send, or read an
electronic message."
And goes on to define an electronic message as; An
“Electronic message" includes, but is not limited to
electronic mail, a text message, an instant message, or a
command or request to access an Internet site."
Visit this link for more information: http://
www.drivinglaws.org/ill.php.
On January 1, 2010 it will be illegal in the State of
Illinois to:
• Send, read a text message or an email while your car
is in traffic, unless fully stopped due to a blocked
roadway (such as a train crossing). A stop sign or stop
light does NOT waive this restriction. You must place
the car in park or neutral gear, or pull over to the
side of the road and stop.
• Use a cell phone in a school or construction zone
without the use of a hands-free device. In other
words, you can not HOLD the cell phone while using
it. You must use a device (such as a Bluetooth
headset or ear bud) which allows you to keep both
hands on the wheel.
To use such a device you must have a compatible
phone and must purchase and install the hands-free
device itself. Contact your cellular provider for specific
information about products and services available for
your cell phone.
Fines for violation of these laws
will start at $75, with higher fines
expected for the most serious
infractions. Obviously, no fine can
ever compensate for injuries or loss
of life.
The law does NOT apply to use of
a navigation device, such as a GPS
system, even if that device is used from a cell phone.
Please share this information with everyone,
particularly teenage driver’s and friends/family who do
not live in Illinois and may not be aware of the law.
JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1 • 11

New Member Profile
Pro Stitch Auto Interiors
Interview with the membership:
PRO Stitch Auto Interiors and Upholstery, Inc.
Russell and Rebecca Stare
944 E 1500 N Rd, Taylorville IL 62568
(217) 824-3228
www.prostitchauto.com russ@prostitchauto.com
Type of Business: PRO Stitch Auto Interiors and
Upholstery, Inc. was started in September 2000 and is
prepared to handle all “soft” work on cars, trucks of
any size including semis, motorcycles, boats, and other
general and heavy upholstery. We do carpet,
headliners, interior panels, seat
repair/rebuilding/restyling,
convertible tops, vinyl tops,
leather recovering and many
other custom services that may
arise. Our 2,400 sq. ft. facility is
located along Illinois Route 104
west of Taylorville, IL.
PRO Stitch is a registered
dealer and installer for Katzkin
Leather replacement seating in
cars and trucks. Katzkin offers
several levels of leather interior
for upgrading foreign and domestic seating.
PRO Stitch is a specialist in OEM panel replacement
and repair. We have access to all produced original
equipment materials for any vehicle. Many times
customers think they have to completely recover a seat
when, in reality, just one or two panels are showing
wear. By replacing only the damaged area with new,
factory-matching cloth, vinyl and leather, PRO Stitch
can help customers save hundreds of dollars on
interior repair work. Unlike hole filling and repair,
panel replacement takes away the damage and leaves
a new surface. Body shops can benefit from our
services when restoring or repairing damaged vehicles.
Detail shops use us when cleaning will destroy a
headliner or animal spray has ruined material.
Mechanics and restoration companies use us for our
interior custom and restoration abilities.
PRO Stitch is the company in Illinois for power seat
installation in new and used vehicles. We can customfabricate
power seating in cars and trucks when
factory units are either not available or cost
prohibitive.
PRO Stitch offers a full range of creature comforts,
including seat heating, massage and lumbar support
installation. We also are experts at reshaping and recontouring
seating to customer specifications.
PRO Stitch is also a full custom interior shop. We can
build anything for anybody from far-out and wild one-off
interiors to exact duplicates of the original.
PRO Stitch will offer a 10% savings on all materials to
any APSA of Illinois member upon request.
Background of oneself/business PRO Stitch was
begun as the answer to a market niche desperate for a
full-time, professional business geared towards vehicle
and heavy upholstery services in Central Illinois.
Owner, Russell Stare, was drawn to the auto industry
following a decade of work in journalism at newspapers
and magazines in Illinois. His wife, Rebecca, a nurse by
profession, also handles office/business duties for the
shop.
How long have you been in
business PRO Stitch officially
opened in September, 2000.
Originally housed in the showroom
area of a former auto dealership in
downtown Taylorville, the
company moved its operation in
May 2001 to its current location.
What is your most memorable
moment working in your shop
The most rewarding and
memorable moments for the shop is when customers
have been referred by other professionals in the auto
industry, with assurances to the customer that the job
will be done right. PRO Stitch customers have won
numerous awards over the years at local and area car
shows. The shop-sponsored 1993 Buick LeSabre is a
consistent class/show winner with its full-custom show
interior and bright green paintwork. PRO Stitch is
currently building a replica 1932 Ford Roadster, dubbed
Forsche32, slated for unveiling at the 2010 Detroit
Autorama.
Do you belong to other associations in your
community If so, what are your activities Yes,
Taylorville Chamber of Commerce and Christian County
Farm Bureau. We also offer discounts to Farm Bureau
members.
What insights or visions do you see for the
automotive aftermarket industry Continuing
education is a must for any company involved in the
automotive industry. Smart cars with onboard
computers, secondary restraint systems and theft
protection are standard issue in vehicles and must be
understood to be repaired. The current economy has
small business in its sights and it will be vital for
business owners, through organizations such as the
12 • JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1
Continued on page 13

Pro Stitch Auto Interiors (continued from page 12)
APSA of Illinois, to make government work for growth
instead of forcing closures and layoffs.
How do you make yourself different from your
competition PRO Stitch has always taken a professional
approach to business and a customer-oriented focus,
striving to meet each individual need in a friendly
courteous manner.
Where do you see the automotive industry going in
the near future, please explain Government
involvement, through bailouts and ill-advised programs like
Cash for Clunkers, is directly affecting the survival of the
aftermarket industry. Second tier auto refurbishing is a
large part of the upholstery industry. Removal of these
vehicles, rather than updating and rebuilding, is a direct
attack by government on the survival of the industry and
must be thwarted.
How is business doing PRO Stitch has always
maintained a full shop, building on a two-tier approach of
daily work customers and long-term build projects. Current
economic misgivings in the country has slowed the daily
work to an extent, but customers still realize the value of
keeping their good used vehicles in shape rather than
trading and upgrading to expensive new cars.
What are some of the challenges for your business
Contribute to
APSA of Illinois PAC Today!
Help your Association make its voice heard in
Springfield. APSA of Illinois Political Action
Committee (PAC) supports legislators and statewide
office holders that support our viewpoints on issues of
concern to small business and the automotive
aftermarket industry.
Your contribution can be sent to:
APSA of Illinois PAC
6450 S. Sixth St. Rd
Springfield, IL 62712-6818
A copy or our report will be filed with the State Board
of Elections, Springfield, IL. State law requires political
action committees to report the name and mailing
address of contributors that exceed $150 in aggregate in
a calendar year. Occupation and employer is required
for contributions over $500. Contributions are not tax
deductible.
Over the years, customers have learned that PRO Stitch
does not follow the “Wal-Mart” mentality of cheap, high
quantity product. We offer custom work to niche markets in
a professional manner that isn’t available off the shelf.
Developing new niches and targeting the level of customer
that appreciates the skill and workmanship offered at PRO
Stitch will keep the business viable for years to come.
Counter Craft
Service Systems & Products, Inc.
720 Concord Lane ~ Lombard, IL 60148-3719
(630) 629-7336 • Fax (630) 629-9430 • (800) 872-0216
Since 1986
Your Complete Source for
Custom Loose Leaf Binders
and Vinyl Products
and Geneva Manufacturing, Inc.
Catalog Racks & Organizational Products
JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1 • 13

14 • JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1

Advertise in the
APSA of Illinois Magazine
The official magazine of APSA of Illinois is published
quarterly. Editorial content includes coverage of
APSA of Illinois sponsored meetings and events,
legislative issues, topics related to the automotive
aftermarket industry and member company’s. We
accept full-page, full-color advertisements as well as
standard black and white advertising.
APSA of Illinois Members receive 25% off
published rates.
(see advertising specifications below)
Ad Type and Size
* Rates are per insertion
** Add on additional 1/4” for full-page bleed
*** Call for availability
* Rates
Full page - Full Color 1x - $800.00
Outside Back cover *** 2x - $700.00
Trim size ** 8 1/2” w x 11” h 4x - $600.00
Full Page - black & white 1x - $550.00
7” w x 9 1/2“ h 2x - $484.00
4x - $412.50
Half-page - full color 1x - $450.00
Outside back cover*** 2x - $396.00
7” w x 4” h 4x - $337.50
Half-page - full color 1x - $350.00
Horizontal 7” h 2x - $308.00
Vertical 3 1/2” w x 9 1/2” h 4x - $262.50
Half-page - black & white 1x - $275.00
Horizontal 7” h 2x - $242.00
Vertical 3 1/2” w x 9 1/2” h 4x - $206.25
Quarter - black & white 1x - $150.00
3 1/2” w x 4” h 2x - $132.00
4x - $112.50
Business card - black & white 1x - $ 50.00
3 1/2” w x 2” h 2x - $ 44.00
4x - $ 37.50
Introductory Special
Advertising now, you will receive 3 ads
for the price of 2 for 2010.
Advertising Specifications
All digital color and grayscale artwork must
be supplied at 300 DPI. Line art must be
supplied at 600 DPI. High-res PDF, TIFF and
JPEG files are accepted. Images from the
web are NOT suitable for printing. All color
artwork must be in CMYK mode, black and
white artwork must be in either grayscale or
bitmap mode. RBG mode artwork is not
accepted and if supplied will be converted to
CMYK mode, which will result in a color shift.
All screen and printer fonts as well as linked
images must be supplied if not embedded in
the file.
Benefits of Offering Your Employees a
Retirement Plan!
As a valued APSA of Illinois member, we want to help you realize
the many benefits of offering a retirement plan. Businesses are
sometimes reluctant to offer their employees a retirement plan
because of the belief in certain myths that it will be cost prohibitive,
an administrative burden, and not valued by employees. Let’s
challenge these myths.
Myth: Offering a retirement plan is expensive.
Fact: By joining our Multiple Employer Plan (MEP), you will
receive the economies of scale that have generally been reserved for
large businesses. APSA of Illinois has implemented retirement plans
for many of our members, and due to the sheer volume of members we
provide this service for, the costs savings are passed along to you and
your participants.
Myth: If my firm offers a retirement plan, our staff will be
buried in administrative paperwork.
Fact: By participating in our MEP, virtually all administrative
tasks can be offloaded from you to us. Tasks that can be shifted may
include: administrative responsibilities, eligibility tracking,
contribution remittance, distribution processing, plan compliance,
nondiscrimination testing, annual reporting, participant education
and enrollment, and participant assistance. The result is more time
for you to focus on running your business.
Myth: My business will receive no tax advantages from
offering a retirement plan.
Fact: Certain qualified defined contribution plans allow both
employer contributions and employee deferrals to be tax deductible as
a business expense. The result is potentially more money that your
business can put to work.
Myth: My employees will not appreciate or value a retirement
plan.
Fact:
(1) 56% of full-time employees whose employer doesn’t offer a
retirement plan said they would likely leave their current job for a
nearly identical position with a similar employer that offered one.
(2) 47% of full-time employees said they’d prefer a job with
excellent retirement benefits with minimum salary requirements
vs. higher salary with poor retirement benefits. The result is happy,
loyal employees.
APSA of Illinois and Transamerica work together for the benefit of
clients like you. For a free plan design consultation on how to
begin the journey of offering a retirement plan, contact APSA of
Illinois today.
JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1 • 15

APSA of IL
WEB Connect Program
More people are basing
purchase decisions on
what they read on the
Internet …
Your competitors are there,
can you afford to be missing
“Make sure your business can
be found on the internet!”
The WEB Connect Program allows you the opportunity to
reach your customers where they are looking for you…
with your own company website.
What you get:
Call today to get started!
1-800-369-2964
Or signup online at
www.apsail.com
• Proven design layouts - for good usability, aesthetics and fast implementation
• Customized for your business - with your logo, colors & content.
• Extensive and exclusive l brary of automotive-specific images – no extra
charge
• Beautiful array of pre-selected color combos help you make a professional
impression - or use your company colors
• Sample content to jump-start your website content
• Helpful checklists, forms, tips and how-to’s
• Search engine optimization – get found via Google, Yahoo and MSN
• Maintenance, hosting, email and support - built-in
www.apsail.com/APSA-IL-program-website.php

JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1 • 17

18 • JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1

Date Book
AGMERP Program Premium
Billings Due
All companies participating in APSA of Illinois’s Group
Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (AGMERP)
program are asked to submit copies of their January
premium billings. Please mail a copy of your billings to:
APSA of Illinois Group Insurance Fund
c/o Administrative Services, Inc.
PO Box 590
Rochester, IL 62563-0590
or fax to (217) 498-8481
HOT OFF THE PRESS…
Economic Stimulus
you can use today,
SUPERFLEET ANNOUNCES
5¢ off per gallon of FUEL
promotion!!!
Avoid claim payment delays, send in your premium
billings today!
Industry Calendar
(For APSA of Illinois Dates, see the inside front cover)
February 12 - 14
Iowa/Illinois Regional Auto Show, Davenport, IA
March 5 - 7
Southwest Automotive Aftermarket Show, Dallas, TX
March 10 - 12
The Work Truck Show, St. Louis, MO
May 5 - 7
AAIA Spring Leadership Days, Hollywood, FL
May 13 -15
Car Care Council World Expo 2010, Las Vegas, NV
May 18 - 19
Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium, Chicago
June 5 -6
Volkswagen Funfest, Effingham
September 18 -19
Corvette Funfest, Effingham
September 27 -29
AAIA Fall Leadership Days, Baltimore, MD
November 2 - 4
AAPEX 2010, Las Vegas, NV
With the APSA of Illinois and SuperFleet program, you have all
the tools available today to maximize your fuel management
capabilities, utilize a FREE program, and also receive volume
discounts!!!
SuperFleet Features Include:
• 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Free on‐line management
access with 15 minute maximum delay of transactional data
• Free instant reports in user friendly excel format
• Acceptance at over 1500 locations in Illinois, Indiana,
Wisconsin and over 6,000 nationwide
• No minimum volume to meet
• Multiple Cards for your account promoting flexibility
• Daily Enhanced Fleet Restrictions for every card by dollars,
gallon or number of transactions limits
• Flexible payment terms
• No annual, monthly card or account fees… ever!
Sign up today and benefit from the 5¢ per gallon for the first
90 days discount, for NEW applicants only promotion, using
Super Fleet!!!
After the 90 days promotions is over then receive the
current association discount of 3 cents per gallon!!! Again all
of this at no cost to you. These discounts can add up to your
membership fees quickly!!!
For an application, please contact Bill Richards at APSA of
Illinois today at (800) 369‐2964 or call Vince Gelsomino at
(815) 409‐2355. More information is available at
www.speedway.com.
JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 1 • 19

PRESORT STANDARD
US Postage Paid
Springfield IL
Permit No. 224
Mission Statement
The mission of APSA of Illinois is to provide communications, education, legislative and regulatory advocacy and group
purchasing of services for its members while promoting the motor vehicle aftermarket industry.
20 • JAN | FEB | MAR 2010 • Volume 52 - Issue 2