Interview Alley, on-line resumes and employment subsidies all at Career Day
August 15, 2006

Thousands of young people and students are expected to arrive from schools and employment agencies for Career Day Forum at CarFixWORLD on Friday September 29.

The National Trade Centre, Exhibition Place, Toronto is the location for seminars, presentations, activities, and hands-on demonstrations, like air bags. CASCAR racer D.J. Kennington and MTV TV’s PIMP MY RIDE stars Alex and Quinton (Q) will speak with students and fans. Many government and help agencies are at Career Day to showcase programs, incentives and credits that can be used to offset new hire costs. Community colleges, CARS Council and Canada Skills-Ontario are in attendance as well as guest student National Competition winners and over 60 industry exhibitors.

Career Day is the best possible time for employers in the service and repair industries to talk with the most eager and interested potential future employees and apprentices.

“If you are a shop owner or manager and know that you will need motivated, valuable apprentices soon, then this is the date and place to come” says John Norris, one of the Career Day organizers. “Students can send in their resumes online to www.carfixworld.com at Career Day and CarFixWORLD is offering a special admission for employers at Career Day Forum who want to interview prospective staff.”

Schools and students also win at Career Day. The school with the most students attending will receive a Lexus for their school’s lab courtesy of Toyota Canada. Other schools receive up to $5000 of auto parts with special prizes and offers from Mitchell International.

Students can win a trip for two to the Grey Cup in Winnipeg courtesy of Castrol.

To register to interview students and find out about hiring incentives and credits for apprentices, please call 1-866-309-4272 or info@ciia.com

To register for the CarFixWORLD Saturday and Sunday industry events, seminars and exhibits, please see www.carfixworld.com

(see headlines)

is now offering WHMIS Training for your auto service or collision repair business

DON’T RISK A MINISTRY LABOUR OFFENSE ORDER
If your WHMIS Training is not up to date, please make arrangements to attend this session

Location: 606 Rennie Street, Hamilton

Date: Wednesday, September 20, 2006

Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Cost: $50.00 (GST included), per person

Outline: MSDS, warning symbols, diesel exhaust, batteries and isocyanates.

Included: Handbook and certificate upon successful completion

Pre-registration and payment is mandatory. If you wish to attend, please contact 1-866-309-4272

SPONSORED BY PIPELINE AUTOMOTIVE & HARA (see headlines)

After five consecutive years of losing market share to dealerships, aftermarket service providers have stabilized their share of service occasions, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2006 Canadian Customer Commitment Index Study.

Over this time period, dealerships have steadily increased their share of the service market, hitting a high point in 2005 at 45% -up from 40% in 2002. In 2006, dealerships lost one percentage point of service share to aftermarket brands, creating a 44%/56% mix between dealers and aftermarket providers. Each percentage point of share translates into almost $90 million in service revenue annually for dealerships in Canada.

Customer satisfaction has improved for the industry as a whole by 8 index points-the largest recorded increase since the study was redesigned in 2003. The service station channel shows the strongest improvement, increasing 17 points from 2005, followed by tire specialists with an 11-point gain.

Fountain Tire ranks highest in overall customer satisfaction amongst automotive service provider brands. Autopro and Petro-Canada Certigard follow Fountain Tire in the rankings.

"While Fountain Tire's relationships with customers often begin with a tire purchase, in many cases, it eventually becomes the facility the customer goes to for all service activity. In fact, customers report that more than 60% of the service activity performed at Fountain Tire has been non-tire work," said Rohan Lobo, senior manager of automotive research at J.D. Power and Associates in Toronto.

The study, now in its ninth year, measures the service satisfaction and loyalty of owners of 2- to 12-year-old vehicles. Overall satisfaction and loyalty with the service provider is determined by examining five key factors: appointment/check-in, service advisor, work quality, after service and customer orientation.
(see headlines)

Armada Data Corporation (TSX:ARD) recently launched "Actual Cash Value Replacement Vehicle Service," which will facilitate insurance companies settling total-loss claims for vehicles of any age that are not covered by a "Waiver of depreciation" endorsement.

The new service is meant to complement Armada's existing 43r.ca service - "New Vehicle Replacement Value Service." This original service facilitates many of Canada's insurers to settle total-loss claims on vehicles three years old or newer, which are covered by a "Waiver of depreciation" endorsement. Total-loss claims of this type represent roughly 10% of all

Total-loss claims whereas Total-loss claims of vehicles of all ages not under the waiver represent around 90% of all Total-loss claims.

"We have been developing and perfecting this product for well over a year," Armada CEO James Matthews says. "This service has the potential to increase revenues from our insurance division ten fold with our existing clients alone. We have set a conservative goal of tripling our revenue by the end of our fiscal third quarter 2007." .

Armada's current client roster consists of Canadian companies including ING Canada, TD Meloche Monnex, Royal & Sun Alliance, Pilot, AVIVA, Belair Direct, Allstate, AXA, CAA, RBC, the co-operators and Certus/Personal. Armada is a web-enabled Automobile Information Services Company providing real-time pricing data to institutional and retail customers on a fee for service basis

If you think stealing a car is a small-time crime motivated by the need for thrill-seeking or a quick buck, it's time for a reality check, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC).

"Today, auto theft is big business," the IBC says in a press release issued at the opening of a two-day summit meeting held in Ottawa on the globalization of auto theft.

The North American Export Committee (NAEC) organized the two-day summit. IBC and other Canadian and U.S. representatives established the NAEC in 1996 to explore ways of improving export reporting, analysis and interdiction methods.

"Organized crime and terrorist organizations routinely raise funds through auto theft, a felony that is on the rise globally," the IBC says. "Stolen vehicles are shipped overseas to be sold to fund operations, or sent to 'chop shops,' where their parts are sold for huge profits. Stolen vehicles are used to conduct surveillance of victims and targets.

"Recent information indicates that exported stolen vehicles from North America have been used to smuggle narcotics across borders, and, in some cases, are implicated in terrorist bombings."

According to Rick Dubin, vice-president of IBC's investigative services, there has been a serious decline in the recovery of vehicles over the past few years.

"At one time in Ontario, we'd be able to recover approximately 90-95% of stolen vehicles," Dubin says. "Now we're down to less than 70%. In Quebec, the vehicle recovery rate is less than 50%."

Greg Terp, NAEC chair and lieutenant in the Miami-Dade Police Department, says U.S. investigators routinely work with partners in Canada, Mexico, Europe and Australia to reduce auto theft export. But there's much more work to do, he adds.

According to Terp, North American cars are particularly attractive to terrorists because their size allows large quantities of explosives to be moved and placed close to targets. They are also less likely to be detected in designated 'safe' zones.

"Vehicles bombs are favorite weapons of the terrorist element, but over the past few years, police forces and special units have been highly successful at identifying vehicles that have been used in terrorist acts, even after they've been blown to bits," Terp says. "Criminals and terrorists are aware of this and know that a stolen vehicle is less likely to be traced back to them."

Auto theft costs Canadian and American consumers an estimated US$9.2 billion annually. In Canada alone, 170,000 vehicles are stolen, resulting in an annual CD$1.2 billion cost to consumers. Of these, 20,000 stolen vehicles are exported annually.

IBC has been lobbying the federal government for changes to the Criminal Code that would recognize auto theft is a serious and violent offence. The laws should include tougher sentences, IBC says.

"Auto theft is a high-profit, low-risk business," Dubin says. "It's low-risk because the courts are too lenient when it comes to sentencing: they still see auto theft as a simple property offence. Forty Canadians are killed each year and 65 seriously injured due to auto theft."

ICBC has filed a civil lawsuit in B.C. Supreme Court, seeking to recover more than CD$377,000 from 24 people alleged to be involved in conspiracies to defraud ICBC.

In a press release, ICBC says "it is suspected the claimants intentionally caused motor vehicle collisions and then made fraudulent claims to ICBC for compensation."

ICBC is seeking to recover its claims costs and legal bills associated with the allegedly false insurance claims. It also seeks damages resulting from investigative costs, punitive damages, interest and additional legal costs.

"ICBC has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to fraud," Mark Withenshaw, ICBC vice president of loss management, said. "We will not sit back and simply pass the cost of fraud onto our customers."

In its statement of claim, ICBC alleges that various defendants, mostly residing in Abbotsford, B.C., were involved in 12 related incidents of insurance fraud.

The claims are said to have first occurred in 1995, and involved intentional collisions between vehicles driven by people who knew each other. Occupants of the vehicles later denied these relationships and/or failed to inform ICBC, in order to conceal the facts that the collisions were intentional.

Many of the collisions are also said to have occurred when one of the defendants failed to stop at a stop sign, or proceeded through a stop sign intersection when it was not safe to do so. And it is alleged that several of the defendants were involved in more than one incident.

For example, in one October 1999 incident, three of the defendants were in a car struck by a vehicle operated by a fourth defendant, who failed to stop at a stop sign.

The circumstances of each of the 12 related incidents are set out in greater detail in the court documents filed by ICBC. The allegations in the statement of claim have not been proven in court.

"ICBC combats fraud to deter others and to recover fraudulent payments. While ICBC seeks to identify potential fraud before the claim is paid, we will also pursue fraudulent claims through civil lawsuits and criminal prosecutions," ICBC's manager of fraud prevention and investigation, Stephen Tripp, said.

According to ICBC, "B.C. motorists saved more than CD$73 million in 2005 thanks to ICBC anti-fraud programs. Savings are based on the estimated value of fraudulent claims which were denied, money recovered and savings generated through fraud prevention."

(see headlines)

Rukavina appointed district manager for PPG Canada

Robert Rukavina has been appointed to PPG Canada's position of district manager, value added programs for Western Canada.

CertifiedFirst national manager Norm Angrove said in a press release that Rukavina will be responsible for "continuing to build the CertifiedFirst Network of collision repair centres, implementing collision centre performance solutions programs, and building insurance relations in Western Canada."

Rukavina comes to PPG with 15 years experience in the automotive collision industry, including extensive knowledge of collision industry management systems, automotive consolidation consulting, OEM parts marketing, and sales and marketing. He has also worked extensively with several industry associations and charities.

Robert's focus in the past three years has been the study of enhanced communications training with NLP Canada, where he received a Practitioner and Masters Certification.

"We are excited to welcome Rob to PPG Canada and the CertifiedFirst Network team," Angrove said. "His wealth of experience in the collision repair industry will be a tremendous benefit to our organization."

The CertifiedFirst Network is a progressive, performance-based network of collision repair centers that have met high standards of customer satisfaction verified by independent third parties. With 1,800 shops, the CertifiedFirst Network is the largest of its kind in North America and has grown to include 137 shops across Canada, located in nine Provinces

(see headlines)

Sales in the U.S. in the second quarter of 2006 decreased 7.4 percent to $28.5 million compared to $30.8 million in the second quarter of 2005.

Translation of U.S. dollar revenues at a weaker U.S. dollar exchange rate, relative to the Canadian dollar, during the second quarter of 2006 accounted for $3.0 million of this decline. This decline was partially offset by new sales of $1.1 million attributable to: two Illinois area start-ups commenced during the second quarter of 2005; three new start-ups commenced in 2006; and, new glass repair and replacement revenues generated in the Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and Washington markets. Excluding the impact of foreign
currency translation and collision and glass repair start-ups, U.S. same store sales declined $0.4 million or 1.4 percent compared to the same period in the prior year.

Earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) for the second quarter of 2006 totalled $2.5 million, or 5.5 percent of sales, compared to EBITDA of $2.7 million, or 6.0 percent of sales, in the second quarter of 2005. This decline is primarily a result of lower amortization of prepaid rebates.

Net loss for the second quarter of 2006 after giving effect to the non-controlling interest, and after discontinued operations, was $654,038 or ($0.07) per fully diluted unit compared to net earnings of $140,411 or $0.01 per fully diluted unit in the second quarter of 2005.

The Fund's net loss resulted primarily from the impact of losses in the U.S. for which no tax benefit was recorded.

For the six months ended June 30, 2006 revenue totalled $92.1 million compared to revenue of $92.2 million in the same period a year ago. EBITDA for the six months ended June 30, 2006 totalled $4.4 million, or 4.8 percent of sales, compared to EBITDA of $6.5 million, or 7.1 percent of sales, in the corresponding period a year ago. The Fund's net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2006 was $2.4 million or ($0.26) per fully diluted unit
compared to net income of $1.5 million or $0.17 per fully diluted unit in the same period a year ago.

The Fund had total debt outstanding at June 30, 2006 of $38.7 million, comprised of: $2.0 million in bank indebtedness; $7.8 million of senior bank term debt; $14.5 million of U.S. bank debt; $0.4 million of supplier debt; $0.7 million of vendor loans; $1.0 million of obligations under capital lease; and, $12.3 million in subordinate convertible debentures and exchangeable notes. This compares to $40.6 million of total debt outstanding
at March 31, 2006, and $39.8 million as at December 31, 2005. Subsequent to June 30, 2006, Boyd Group prepaid US$2.8 million of U.S. bank debt held by the Fund's senior lenders and amended senior credit facilities to increase the Fund's operating line of credit from $12 million to $15 million.

The Boyd Group Inc. is the largest operator of collision repair facilities in Canada and among the largest in North America. The company operates locations in the four western Canadian provinces principally under the trade names Boyd Autobody & Glass and Service Collision Repair, as well as in six U.S. states principally under the trade name Gerber Collision & Glass. The company also operates Gerber National Glass Services, an auto glass repair and replacement referral business with affiliated service providers
throughout the United States.

©2006 Collision Repair Industry INSIGHT All Rights Reserved

(see headlines)

Keystone Automotive Names New Director of Quality Assurance

Keystone Automotive Industries announced the addition of a new Director of Quality Assurance. Steve Barker will join the rest of Keystone's quality assurance team at their Manufacturing and Quality Assurance headquarters located in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Reporting to Vice President Carl Hartman, Barker has been charged with the responsibility of enhancing the level of quality, fit and finish, with the goal of providing perfect parts to customers, every time.

"As the industry leader, Keystone is committed to providing the highest quality products to the collision repair trade," stated Hartman. "Expanding our expert staff of quality assurance professionals to lead this effort is a key element to our success."

Most recently Barker served as a Quality Manager for FailSafe Campus Inc. where he developed and wrote ISO 9001 and all related procedures conforming to National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). In addition, he has held positions with Robert Bosch Manufacturing, Diesel Tech & Engineering and Jackson Products helping to build company quality and standards. He holds a business administration degree from Grand Rapids Community College and has the following certificates and training; ISO lead auditor - Certificate; Value Analysis Engineering; Calibration; Internal Auditor Training; Management Training courses on Supervision and Human Relation. Steve also has attended various seminars on Applied Statistical Process Control and Advanced S.P.C.

(see headlines)

A recent survey of more than 1,000 independent repair shop owners, service managers and service technicians reveals that $5.8 billion in service and parts sales is being lost annually because they are unable to readily access the necessary repair information and tools from car manufacturers to properly diagnose and repair vehicles, according to the Automotive
Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

The survey, conducted by Opinion Research Corporation, directly contradicts recent statements made by the Consumers Union through Consumer Reports that the service information issue has been solved.

The survey also found that independent repair shops lose additional sales when forced to turn away 1.2 million consumers each year because they do not have the information and tools to diagnose and repair their customer's vehicle.

Also, 70 percent of survey respondents revealed that they have no confidence that vehicle manufacturers will always provide them with the necessary tools and information in the future, according to AAIA.

"Without a doubt, this independent survey demonstrates the extensive problems being encountered by independent repair shops that cannot obtain the tools and information they need to be competitive with new car dealers," said Kathleen Schmatz, AAIA President and CEO.

"Not only are the independents losing billions of dollars in business, too many consumers are being inconvenienced by being forced to take their vehicle to a dealership after being turned away by their first choice local repair shop."

"This comprehensive look at the repair issue further shows that while car companies claim the problem is solved, the reality does not support their assertions. Passage of the Motor Vehicle Owners Right to Repair Act of 2005 (HR 2048) is the only way to provide a strong message for now and into the future that all information and tools must be made readily available to the independent aftermarket," said Schmatz.

"Without the equitable access to repair information outlined in the 'Right to Repair' Act, more and more repair shops will be forced to turn away customers and consumers will have no choice but to go to the car dealer to get their cars serviced."

The "Right to Repair Act," which was introduced by Reps. Joe Barton, (R- TX), Edolphus Towns, (D-NY) and Darrel Issa (R-CA), would require the car companies to make the same service information and tools capabilities available to independents that they provide their franchised dealer networks.

Architects of the "Right to Repair Act" added new language this year to clarify that car company trade secrets are protected unless that information is provided to the franchised new car dealer.

The new language also clarifies the responsibilities of the Federal Trade Commission in enforcing the bill's requirements.(courtesy of BODYSHOP magazine)

(see headlines)

In a major show of support for the collision repair industry accreditation program, senior Ontario government staff met with CISCO supporters to offer suggestions on next steps.

CISCO, The Collision Industry Standards Council of Ontario Inc., is the group representing the collision repair, autobody and auto refinish industry in Ontario, in moving forward with an accreditation program of facilities to assist consumers.

A number of senior staff from the Ministry of Government Services, Consumer Protection Branch, including Assistant Deputy Minister Rob Dowler, met with a room full of CISCO supporters who came with answers to previous government questions on the program.

CISCO's efforts are based on requesting the government to move ahead and proclaim the already passed, Collision Repair Standards Act of 2002, that would set the stage for industry accreditation.

Mr. Dowler congratulated CISCO on the wide range of support that they had obtained and offered recommendations on what the staff needed next in order to implement a self-managed program.

Alex Szabo, President of CISCO, thanked the many supporters for their strong effort in continuing to help CISCO. At the meeting offering their encouragement to the government were representatives from:

Ontario Automobile Dealers Association and Toronto association
Consumers Council of Canada
Canadian Automobile Association
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
Hamilton district Autobody Repair Association and www.ciia.com

Included in a package presented to the Ministry were letters of support from:

Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council
Canadian Collision Industry Forum
Insurance Bureau of Canada

"This wide-range of support will help the industry identify to government how important it is to move forward with mandatory shop accreditation and self-management to provide a level-playing field for industry and better consumer protection. Government is certainly eager to look at underground operations and abuse issues." said Mr. Szabo.

For more information on CISCO , please see: http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/cisco.html

(see headlines)

Train your new or office staff to be ready for your autumn business

Last opportunity until spring 2007

This six-night basic estimating class has been delayed one week to allow more students to take advantage of the last evening class to be offered this year.

Scheduled to start on Tuesday August 15, 2006 and offered over six nights on Tuesday and Thursday evening at the Motive Power Training Centre at 606B Rennie Street, Hamilton, the course is ideal for new workers, office staff, customer service personnel or replacement staff.

Contains: Introduction to estimating, understanding vehicle construction, fundamentals of estimate writing, understanding collision manuals, additional charges and collision damage analysis.

A manual and certificate upon successful completion is included.

Association members ($350.00 plus GST) and non-members ($450.00 plus GST.)

Call 1- 866-309-4272 or register online at www.ciia.com/estimating.html soon!

(see headlines)

Controversial State Farm service agreement will be implemented in Canada

State Farm's new Select Service direct repair program (DRP) will be introduced in several states plus Alberta, New Brunswick and Ontario, beginning in the third quarter of 2006. The program has gained notoriety because it contains a number of controversial elements and because it requires repairers with existing State Farm agreements to reapply for the new program.

This "enhancement" of State Farm's auto damage service repair programs was tested in several markets in California, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan last year. Changes were made to the program for companywide implementation based on feedback received and the results of the test.

"We listened to the feedback provided by the repair industry." said State Farm Claim Consultant George Avery. "As a result, we've made changes to the Select Service program."

The new Select Service program will replace existing Select Service and Service First® programs in designated markets. It stipulates that customers will receive national limited lifetime repair warranties, guaranteed completion dates, wash and vacuum of repaired vehicles, and pick-up and delivery service.

The new program will be extended to all states in 2007.

According to a State Farm press release, repairers will have an opportunity to review the new agreement and apply to participate in the new program. "Repairers, large and small, best suited to meet the repair value and business needs of State Farm customers will be selected to participate," it reads.

The company states that the new Select Service program enhances its ability to provide customers with efficient, quality repairs and excellent customer service at competitive prices. "The overall changes to the program will allow State Farm to continue to help customers recover from the unexpected while supporting our business direction of a performance based repair program," said Avery.

The company statement concludes with: "The collision repair industry consistently ranks State Farm as one of the best insurers with whom to do business. State Farm intends to maintain quality relationships with repair facilities while continuing to provide the highest level of claim service to its customers.

On Tuesday June 27, HARA hosted at the Dundas Valley Golf and Curling Club, the 37th Annual Golden Horseshoe Golf Tournament as golfers competed for prizes around the course. Golfers look forward every year to playing on this private course, and the great steak dinner that follows.

This year, the local charity Neighbour to Neighbour Food Banks was accepting non-perishable foods and gifts at the golf registration table and will receive a donation as a portion of the day's event. Golfers had been asked to bring non-perishable foods or a minimum of a $10 donation for Neighbour to Neighbour Food Bank. A draw for the charity was also held.

On the course, Kelly Cycle Centre donated the hole-in-one prize of a 2006 Suzuki Grizzly 4x4 ATV for the lucky golfer who drives a hole-in-one on the 17th. Other hole-in-one prizes on the course included: Two Nike Sasquatch drivers, 36 dozen Nike golf balls and a free week at the Trump/Atlantic City hotel and golf course.

Enterprise Car Rentals was helping golfers with water bottles and towels while the local hockey team, the Hamilton Bulldogs and their mascot Bruiser, were out in force, with a Closest to the Net competition and for those golfers that are good at hockey, first prize of season tickets to the Bulldogs 2006-2007 season. Discount Car and Truck Rentals featured special prizes for the golfers closest to the pin.

Today's Heroes hosted a silent auction during dinner with donations to Neighbour to Neighbour Food Bank. Special ticket winners after dinner won great prizes including: 4some tickets for next year's tournament, a complete WHMIS training package for their shop, motorcycle leather jacket or $500 in gift certificates for the Dundas Valley Golf pro shop for great golf accessories. Other gifts included binoculars, a deluxe toolkit, a bottle of scotch and gift certificates.

Thank you to the day's major sponsors:

Hamilton, ON - Friday, June 30th, 2006 - CARSTAR Automotive Canada has
announced that it has signed a national agreement to utilize the claims portal, SMART Insurance Technology managed by CGI Insurance Business Services.

CARSTAR's 114 locations throughout Canada will now begin to receive
assignments from SMART users. The SMART portal automates and streamlines the communication process between claim adjusters and other participants on a claim driving quality customer service and efficiencies.

"We believe the SMART portal can provide significant value to our stakeholders and look forward to the value-added that CARSTAR's participation can bring to SMART users nationwide." said Larry Jefferies, EVP, CARSTAR Automotive Canada.

"We are pleased CARSTAR has joined the SMART portal. Not only will they now
receive assignments more easily from SMART users but will also help establish SMART as the industry claims portal bringing various benefits to vendors and adjusters alike," said Fred Silvestri, director, SMART Insurance Technology at CGI.

About Smart Insurance Technology

CGI's SMART is a property and casualty insurance claims management portal
that uses automation to transmit electronic assignments with all relevant
coverage and claim information to vendors immediately as the claim is
initiated. SMART reduces initial claims handling time by as much as 40% and
facilitates real-time communications between adjusters, third party partners
and vendors. SMART enables wireless information access and provides document management, consolidating all information into one central file. The
benefits include increased adjuster efficiency, reduced cost of claims and
expenses and improved customer satisfaction. SMART is used by several
clients in Canada including CGI Adjusters Inc., a division of CGI Insurance
Business Services. More information at CGI Insurance Business Services

About CARSTAR Automotive Canada

With over 300 locations across North America, CARSTAR is the leader in the
automotive collision repair industry. Founded in Hamilton, Ontario, CARSTAR
Automotive Canada has grown from eight to over 100 locations in just 10
years. CARSTAR repairs approximately 1 in 20 vehicles in Canada - 6,000
vehicles per month - with high rates of customer satisfaction. For more
information, please visit CARSTAR at www.carstar.ca.

The difficulty Canadian employers have in finding skilled tradespeople is becoming an impediment to economic growth. Meanwhile, many young Canadians find themselves stuck in low-paying work, and are either not encouraged to consider the trades or unable to do so because of financial barriers.

To encourage employers to hire new apprentices, the government’s Budget 2006 has proposed a new Apprenticeship Job Creation Tax Credit, effective May 2, 2006. As a result, eligible employers will receive a tax credit equal to ten per cent of the wages paid to qualifying apprentices in the first two years of their contract, to a maximum credit of $2,000 per apprentice per year.
It is estimated that this measure will reduce federal revenues by $190 million in 2006-07 and $200 million in 2007-08.

In addition to current federal support provided to apprentices through the Employment Insurance program, a new Apprenticeship Incentive Grant program will be established effective January 1, 2007. The program will provide a cash grant of $1,000 per year to apprentices in the first two years of an apprenticeship program in one of the Red Seal trades and other economically strategic apprenticeship programs. This grant will be included in computing the income of the recipient for tax purposes.

The Government of Canada will be consulting with provinces and territories, employers and unions to best determine which other apprenticeship programs will be included in the program. Their views will also be sought concerning how to deliver the grant. This grant for apprentices, together with the proposed tax credit for employers, will provide a strong incentive for more young Canadians to pursue apprenticeships and hence meet the future need for skilled tradespeople that is crucial to the sustained growth of the economy.

The cost of this new Apprenticeship Incentive Grant program, under the auspices of the Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, is estimated to be $125 million over 2006-07 and 2007-08. It is estimated that about 100,000 apprentices will benefit as a result of the new grant and tax credit.(see headlines)

Close to 50% of these scholarship recipients are studying in fields related to the automotive sector, pursuing a variety of automotive careers.

“As with every year, we were again impressed with the calibre of the applicants,” says AIA President Ray Datt. “These are great examples of the type of youth we need to attract to our industry. We are delighted that so many Canadian students from across the country are benefiting from this scholarship program.”

“I have the ambition to carry on the success of my family’s company, by keeping our independent garage competitive to industry standards. I will continue to encourage other independents to take action and become a part of the future vision that associations such as the Automotive Industries Association (AIA), Canadian Independent Automotive Association (CIAA) and the Barrie Area Automotive Repair Association (BAARA) has,“ says Laura Pilon, Canadian Automotive Marketing student at Georgian College.

“I plan to apprentice as an autobody technician after I finish the pre-employment program and work towards earning my Journeyman certificate. In time I hope to specialize in custom painting. Someday I hope I will have the opportunity to help other young apprentices get their start, as well, “ explains Jeremy Schultz who has been accepted into the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology – Autobody Technician Pre-Employment program.

Students who work in the aftermarket after completing their studies are eligible for an additional grant. The GAAS scholarship is unique in that recipients may receive two financial grants: one while they are in school -- to assist with tuition -- and an equivalent matching grant for all scholarship recipients who graduate from their program and work in the automotive aftermarket.

Approximately 130 GAAS scholarships at $1000 each were awarded this year, including 15 Canadians. In the ten years of the scholarship, over a thousand students have received financial aid totalling over $1 million.

The annual investment to help develop future aftermarket industry leaders is funded through proceeds from the annual Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS). This two-day program brings together numerous industry executives, including Canadians, and examines the issues and trends affecting the aftermarket industry and influencing its future. The 2007 Symposium will be held May 8 and 9 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Chicago Visit: www.globalsymposium.org for more information.

Canadian GAAS Scholarship Applicants must be enrolled full-time in a college-level program or an accredited automotive technical program.

A complete list of Canadian winners is below. Scholarship applications are available from the AIA Canada web site (http://www.aiacanada.com/html/careers/GAAS.htm ), or by contacting AIA at 1-800-808-2920 ext 226. Additional information on the symposium and US application forms can be found on the Symposium website, www.globalsymposium.org.

The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA) is a national trade association representing the automotive aftermarket industry. The aftermarket is a $15.8 billion industry, and is proud to employ more than 220,000 people. The industry is composed of companies that manufacture, distribute and install automotive replacement parts, accessories, tools, and equipment. AIA represents wholesalers, retailers, warehouse distributors, manufacturers, rebuilders, national distributors, manufacturers’ agents, buying groups and machine shops. AIA’s mandate is to promote, educate and represent members in all areas that impact the growth and prosperity of the industry. Visit us on the web at www.aiacanada.com.

CarFixWORLD Career Day highlights Alex and “Q” from MTV’s PIMP MY RIDE!!
Win a free Lexus vehicle for your school courtesy of Toyota Canada!!

With almost three thousand student attendees already scheduled to come to Career Day Forum, three months before the event takes place, organizer John Norris of the National Automotive Trades Association (NATA), predicts that Career Day Forum at CarFixWORLD will be huge success. This free event takes place at the National Trades Centre, Exhibition Place, Toronto on Friday September 29, 2006 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

With special promotions like seeing the free spray booth that will be given away, or knowing that one student will win two tickets with airfare to Winnipeg’s Grey Cup football classic, it is certain to interest students. The school that brings the most student attendees wins a free Lexus vehicle courtesy of Toyota Canada. Other prizes for schools include up to $5000 worth of auto parts and free estimating software.

The jam-packed day includes presentations from guest speakers on apprenticeship, Job connect, grants and employment incentive programs. The young apprentices that won the National Technological Skills competition at the Canada Skills Olympics this year will be updating the student audience on their experiences and urging young people to look at automotive service as a good career choice with a great future.

Over 60 automotive service suppliers and manufacturers are in attendee and apprenticeship services, college advisors and job placement staff are in attendance.

CARS Council speakers, Canada Skills Ontario and car manufacturers will have presentations on how to become an apprentice in any auto repair trade.

Online interviews and in-person discussion will be featured in Interview Alley, where young people can talk to interested employers in 6-minute interviews to move them into automotive apprenticeship careers.

You can join Centennial College and watch air bag detonations, meet race driver D. J. Kennington and the Castrol CASCAR race car and participate in the Pit Stop Challenge.

Solar cars, race vehicles and students working on project cars are featured. Participate in the live interview (or just get their autographs) from Alex and Quinton “Q”, from MTV’s hit show, PIMP MY RIDE, or test your skills in the car detailing competition.

A bus subsidy for schools is still hoped to be announced soon and a noon-hour teacher luncheon is being discussed.

For more information, to register your school for this exciting day or if you are interested in helping or interviewing, please call 1-866-309-4272 or info@ciia.com

Imagine having to be compliant with all the regulatory requirements enforced by 13 different ministries and other government organizations, whether it's health and safety, environment, building codes, employment standards, or more. For Ontario businesses, there's no imagination involved. They must comply, no matter what their size.

Relief might be in sight. The Regulatory Modernization Act, introduced in February 2006, recognizes that all but the largest companies who can devote entire departments to monitor legislative requirements, are overwhelmed with the multitude of regulations they need to meet to run their business. One solution? A one-stop shop web site intended to provide this information in bite-size, digestible chunks, and being piloted by the service sector (auto body repair service) before being rolled out to other sectors. The OSSA is included as a popular link.

Accountability for integrating and coordinating the service rests with the Inspections, Investigations and Enforcement Secretariat of the Ministry of Labour. The web site is new and evolving. Check it out and offer your two cents on how to make it better

(see headlines)

Integrity Collision Network has signed a new partnership agreement with Johnson/Unifund Assurance. Negotiations with Wayne Blair, Atlantic Region auto appraisal supervisor for Johnson/Unifund, are said to have focused on customer service and quality of repair rather than being concerned with labor rates and material costs.

Integrity Collision Network (ICN) consists of six Nova Scotia collision centers who have created their own marketing and purchasing group.

In a prepared statement, ICN and Johnson/Unifund note that building trust and closing gaps in the industry relationship is of paramount importance to both organizations. "Forward thinking and flexibility are the keys to developing a more human than monetary approach to relationship building. Our shared vision for the future will undoubtedly provide an uncompromising service to our shared customers."

The two organizations are pleased with the new agreement and look forward to a relationship based on trust and mutual respect.

ICN's purpose is to collectively market its membership to customers, including insurance companies, in a fair and ethical manner. The group includes Carroll's Collision, The Coachworks Incorporated, Keizer's Collision, MacPhee Collision, O'Regan's Collision and Wolf Collision. All serve the Halifax region.

(see headlines)

June 29, 2006
AUTO BODY REPAIR COMPLIANCE INFORMATION CENTRE:
HELPING SMALL BUSINESS THROUGH OUTREACH AND EDUCATION

The McGuinty government is making it easier for Ontario’s small businesses to understand and manage their regulatory responsibilities through a new and innovative pilot project.

The Auto Body Repair Compliance Information Centre (CIC) is an online pilot project designed to increase awareness and understanding of government requirements in the auto body repair industry through outreach and education. The overall goal is to make it easier for small businesses to understand and meet their regulatory responsibilities.

The CIC website was developed with input from the auto body repair industry, including the Collision Industry Action Group (CIAG), the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA) and auto body repair shop owners. ServiceOntario worked with regulatory ministries to develop the site as part of the government’s commitment to providing easier, more streamlined and better-integrated services for people and businesses across the province. ServiceOntario is the fast and convenient place to obtain government information and services, online, in person and over the phone.

With more than 2,800 shops, most of which employ fewer than five workers, the auto body repair industry is representative of many of Ontario’s small business owners. However, to protect public safety, the industry is subject to extensive regulation from provincial, municipal and federal governments. Based on discussions with stakeholders, the industry has expressed a desire to work with government to improve compliance performance, beginning with a better understanding and awareness of its regulatory responsibilities.

Improving Outreach and Education

The CIC will provide regulatory information in a whole new way. Traditionally, information has been provided in a government-focused format, requiring multiple searches on individual ministry websites. The CIC aims to provide “one-stop shopping” for shop owners by compiling regulatory requirements from multiple ministries in an organized, business-friendly format. The website, at www.serviceontario.ca/autobody, was created in conjunction with stakeholders from the auto body repair industry, with an emphasis on making it user-friendly and easy to understand. The CIC is also available at www.serviceontario.ca, a government site dedicated to making it easier for Ontarians to do business with the province by providing information and services online, in person and over the phone.

Changing the Way We Do Business

The Auto Body Repair Compliance Information Centre (CIC) is one part of a broader modernization strategy to improve and modernize the government’s regulatory activities in Ontario. The other components of the modernization plan include:
• The Regulatory Modernization Act, 2006, introduced in February 2006, that would, if passed, play a major role in improving public protection by allowing ministries to make more efficient use of government resources, while also reducing duplication in compliance activities
• A performance-based strategy that would recognize companies with exceptional records of compliance – while targeting businesses that consistently and repeatedly contravene Ontario’s laws.

Consultation

The overall plan was developed as a result of consultation with a number of stakeholders, including the Collision Industry Action Group (CIAG), Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA), small business owners and regulatory ministries. Our stakeholders consistently identified common areas for improvement including:
• The need for a single portal of information for regulatory requirements
• Creating a website that is easy to navigate and provides clear information on legislation specifically applicable to the auto body repair industry
• The development of a combined information centre that includes provincial, federal and municipal regulatory requirements
• Focusing enforcement efforts where they most matter, to better protect the public and promote a level playing field for compliant businesses.

Next Steps

The CIC is an ongoing project that will be continually developed and refined to even better reflect the operations of an auto body shop owner. Future plans include working to incorporate regulatory requirements from municipal and federal government partners, to truly represent a “one-stop shop” for business.

For more information visit www.labour.gov.on.ca (see headlines)

PRO-SHINE FINED $1,200 FOR VIOLATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT

May 31, 2006 FORT FRANCES — Pro-Shine has been fined $1,200, plus a victim fine surcharge, after pleading guilty to violating the Environmental Protection Act (EPA).
Pro-Shine is an automobile repair and finishing business located at 300 Pit Road #2 in the town of Fort Frances, Ontario.

The Court heard that on June 15, 2005, a routine inspection by a Provincial Officer with the Ministry of the Environment found that the company did not have a Certificate of Approval (C of A) for its paint-spray booth.

A Provincial Officer’s Order was issued to Pro-Shine requiring the company to complete and submit an application for a C of A for the operation of the spray booth. The company did not comply with this requirement and, following an investigation by the ministry’s Investigations and Enforcement Branch, charges were laid.

Pro-Shine was fined $1,200 after pleading guilty to failure to comply with a Provincial Officer’s Order by not submitting an application for a C of A under Section 9 of the EPA.
The Court was told that the company later hired a consultant to prepare an application for a C of A.

Justice of the Peace Pat Clysdale-Cornell heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice in Fort Frances, Ontario, on April 28, 2006.
(see headlines)

BUSINESS OWNER FINED $500 FOR VIOLATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT

ST. CATHARINES — A local business owner has been fined $500, plus a victim fine surcharge, after pleading guilty to violating the Environmental Protection Act (EPA).
Queenstar Auto Collision and Sales was owned by Edgar Gonzalez and was located at 142 Cushman Road in St. Catharines.

The Court heard that during an inspection on August 20, 2002, a Provincial Officer with the Ministry of the Environment learned that a paint spray booth on the premises was operating without a Certificate of Approval (C of A).

Following an investigation by the Ministry’s Investigations and Enforcement Branch charges were laid.

Gonzalez pleaded guilty to failing to comply with a Provincial Officer’s Order by failing to complete and submit an application for a C of A contrary to Section 9 of the EPA and was fined $500 plus VFS. The Court was told that Gonzalez has ceased operating his auto collision and sales business.

Justice of the Peace Thomas P. Froese heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice in St. Catharines on April 6, 2006.

(see headlines)

June 13, 2006 – Ottawa, ON. AIA Canada is pleased to announce that Shad's R&R held June 8th in Kleinberg, Ontario once again supported the High Fives for Kids program with a Par 3 Fundraising Challenge that featured Nat Desjardins, one of Canada's leading amateur female golfers.

Thanks also to Federal-Mogul Canada for donating the TaylorMade R7 Driver for the High Fives for Kids draw and the Board members of Shad's R&R for their support of the High Fives for Kids Par 3 Challenge.

To date over $10,000 has been raised for the program. The High Fives for Kids program was developed and launched by AIA Canada over a year ago to support children in need. The High Fives for Kids program is a grassroots-driven charity managed by AIA's 13 Division Chairmen. All AIA members from coast to coast can apply to the program for assistance with local causes affecting children. For more information about the program, visit www.aiacanada.com.

Watch for more details to be announced shortly regarding enhancements to the High Fives for Kids program. The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA) is a national trade association representing the automotive aftermarket industry. The aftermarket is a $15.8 billion industry, and is proud to employ more than 220,000 people. The industry is composed of companies that manufacture, distribute and install automotive replacement parts, accessories, tools, and equipment. AIA represents wholesalers, retailers, warehouse distributors, manufacturers, rebuilders, national distributors, manufacturers’ agents, buying groups and machine shops. AIA’s mandate is to promote, educate and represent members in all areas that impact the growth and prosperity of the industry. Visit us on the web at www.aiacanada.com.

For more information about the High Fives for Kids Program and criteria for support, or to make a donation to the Trust Fund, contact:

Patty Kettles, Manager, Sales & Marketing, AIA Canada, 800-808-2920 ext. 221

(see headlines)

Several business-oriented speakers of interest to the collision repair sector are have signed on to share their knowledge at CarFixWORLD, the dynamic one-stop shopping industry event for the Canadian automotive service and collision industry taking place Sept. 29 to Oct. 1 in Toronto.

Friday, Sept. 29, is primarily reserved for students and apprentice activity; Saturday and Sunday, September 30 and October 1, are filled with prominent experts from every aspect of the automotive aftermarket. Three important areas - the Studio Stage, the Service Shop and the Seminar Station -- have a steady fare of high profile experts and prominent
personalities addressing every subject area, from the business of the aftermarket to the latest technical innovations to the most glamorous aspects of top-rated automotive TV shows.

On Saturday, Dennis DesRosiers, Canada's leading automotive authority, will present "Ten Significant Trends the Aftermarket Needs To Respond To" as the event's keynote address.

Beverlie Cook - from Skills Canada explains some of the incentives that the federal government offers to businesses that employ apprentices. She reveals that you can earn money from the Canadian Government just by hiring an apprentice.

Jay Perry, CEO of Automotive Business Consultants, is well known in the collision industry for small business solutions and strategy. He will explain his formula of productivity + efficiency+ recruitment = profit as a model for enhancing business profitability.

Mary-Beth Kellenberger, a senior consultant industry analyst for the transportation industry discusses how vehicle design will impact the repair industry as well as the importance of technician training and growth of peripheral persons.

As well, I-CAR Canada will review "Automotive Technology Trends in the Collision Industry".

Attendees can also expect guest appearances by Alex and Quinton "Q" from "Pimp My Ride", Castrol Dodge CASCAR contender DJ Kennington, Courtney Hansen, the host of Spike TV's Power Block, plus contests and challenges, customized cars and new equipment demos in scores of booths.

CarFixWORLD takes place September 29 - October 1, 2006 in the Direct Energy Centre (formerly known as the National Trade Centre) at Toronto's Exhibition Place. Further information, including how to register, can be found at carfixworld.com.

(see headlines)

The offices of ciia.com and Hamilton and District Autobody Repair Association (HARA) have moved to a larger facility with more room to offer training courses. The association is now located at HARA, Automotive and Motive Power Training Centre, 606 Rennie Street, Hamilton, ON, L8H 3P5.

The new local phone number is 905-545-3388, fax: 905 545 3440. The toll-free number 866-309-4272 remains the same.

As well, e-mail, web and electronic links remain the same. Regular mail should still be sent to PO Box 47594, Centre Mall, Hamilton, ON, L8H 7S7 with courier deliveries received at 606 Rennie Street.

(see headlines)

RS Finishing Systems Inc. has stepped up to the plate with a strong incentive for attendees of CarFix WORLD. The company is donating an Ausen spray booth (27 ft. x 13 ft.), valued at more than $50,000, as a prize to the collision attendees. Bodyshop magazine is working with CarFixWORLD and RS Finishing Systems to showcase this valuable prize.

As well, Wakefield Canada, the country's marketer and distributor of Castrol lubricants, has taken an aggressive position at the CarFixWORLD event. The Castrol brand is prominent at the Grey Cup, so as major sponsor, Wakefield is offering tickets and airfare to the 2006 Grey Cup to be held in Winnipeg.

"We anticipate these two prizes will create a lot of interest in the event and underline that this is now the aftermarket show in Canada," comments Carol Bell-LeNoury, the show's manager.

In addition to the Wakefield/Castrol and RS Finishing commitments, several other major automotive aftermarket companies have contracted to take part in CarFixWORLD this past week. Dominion Sure Seal, Snap-On Tools, FMSI Automotive, Mitchell International, Ingersol-Rand Canada Inc., AMH Canada, SATA and The John Bean Company have all signed on as exhibitors.

CarFixWORLD is gaining momentum quickly this month, adds Bell-LeNoury. "With top notch presentations, a rapidly growing slate of first tier exhibitors and now these exciting grand prizes from Castrol and RS Finishing, this is now quite an exceptional event."

CarFixWORLD takes place from Sept. 29 to Oct. 1 at the National Trade Centre, Toronto. For more information, visit www.carfixworld.com.

(see headlines)

Several significant players in the Canadian aftermarket and collision industry have signed on for CarFixWORLD, the automotive industry exhibition taking place September 29 to October 1, 2006 at Toronto's National Trade Centre.

The exhibitor commitment continues to grow and an early survey of potential show visitors indicates attendance will exceed initial expectations, according to John McLean, the event's manager.

Exhibitors who have signed on include Carcone's Auto Recycling, Cars Systems Inc., Chicago Pneumatic Tool, Citation, Delphi, Dominion Sure Seal, Fleetchek.com, Global Finishing Solutions, Gojo Industries Inc., Henkel, Hofmann, Inov8, Matco, Transport Canada, RS Finishing Systems Inc. and Thermofluid Technologies.

CarFixWORLD also conducted an email survey to trade publication readers in both the repair and collision sectors. Nearly 1,000 replies were received. The survey indicated consistent enthusiasm for the "one big show" concept from all sectors of the aftermarket community.

Survey respondents indicated an enthusiasm for the show to focus seminars on product training, business management, technology/equipment, tools and recruitment. "This speaks to our extensive schedule of seminars and special presentations at the show.

CarFixWORLD will set a new benchmark for the industry," noted McLean.

Check www.carfixworld.com for more information.

(see headlines)