HAMILTON, ON -- CARSTAR Collision Repair Centres across Canada raised $50,115.86 for local chapters of the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and local fundraising groups at the second annual CARSTAR "Soaps it Up for Cystic Fibrosis" National Car Wash held Saturday, June 4th, 2005.

"Giving back and contributing to the community is a very important part of what CARSTAR stands for," said Sam Mercanti, President and CEO of CARSTAR Automotive Canada. "This year we raised over 50% more than last year. We are extremely proud and thankful to all of our franchisees and volunteers who helped make this fundraising event such a great success."

Hundreds of volunteers and staff members washed 4281 vehicles for the cause, using the new Mr. Clean AutoDry car wash product, the national product sponsor of the campaign.

Joshua Morrow, the hunky and famous soap star who plays Nicholas Newman on the Young & The Restless, was the celebrity guest on hand for the kick-off event at CARSTAR Collision Repair Centres in Ottawa and Montreal on Friday, June 3rd, 2005. Many other local celebrities and media personalities across the nation also helped raise profile for the event and even helped wash a few cars.

"Cystic fibrosis research and care in Canada are cutting-edge, and great progress is being made in this country in the fight against the disease, thanks, in part, to the hard work and dedication of national partners like CARSTAR," Cathleen Morrison, CEO of the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. "But sadly, we are still losing too many young lives." "We are deeply grateful to everyone who took part in the CARSTAR "Soaps it up for CF" National Car Wash, as every dollar donated to the CCFF supports the search for a cure, or an effective control, for CF."

Cystic fibrosis attacks the lungs and the digestive system, and is the most common, fatal genetic disease affecting young Canadians. CARSTAR Automotive Canada has been a dedicated supporter of the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for several years, after it was discovered that the granddaughter of a CARSTAR franchisee was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. To date, CARSTAR has helped raise over $1 million to help find a cure for cystic fibrosis. Visit www.ccff.ca for more information on CF.

(see headlines)

June 9, 2005

The Toronto Police Service, 13 Division, announced that they arrested two men involved in the auto repair industry and charged them with various fraud related offenses based on a complaint by the Insurance Bureau of Canada.

It is alleged that they inflated repair estimates and they inflicted damage to cars that came in for repair.

Both men are employed at a collision centre on Geary Avenue.

John Keen, 44, is charged with Fraud Under $5,000, three counts of Fraud Over $5,000 and three counts of Attempt Fraud Over $5,000

Timothy McBride 29, is charged with three counts of Fraud Over $5000 and three counts of Attempt Fraud Over $5,000

Both men are scheduled to appear in court at 1000 Finch Avenue West at 2 pm, Friday July 22, 2005

Anyone with information is asked to call 13 Division at (416) 808 1300 or Crime Stoppers at (416) 222 TIPS (8477) or online at www.222tips.com

(see headlines)

A P.E.I. man has been convicted of impaired driving for sniffing lacquer thinners in his car while he drove.

Police say Lloyd Gass of Charlottetown was seen driving at a slow speed last winter with a rag over his mouth.

The officer who stopped the vehicle said he detected a very strong chemical odour, and Gass displayed several signs of impairment. Rags found under the seat were found to be soaked in lacquer thinner. A can of thinner was also found.

(see headlines)

HARA pricing recommendations June 2005 sent to auto insurers in Ontario

June 7, 2005

Dear Insurance Company Claims Manager:

Since 2002, electricity prices have skyrocketed by 32%. Auto insurance premiums, although slowing going down now, rose some 30% in 2002 and 2003. Shops complain that commercial garage insurance premiums have risen almost 40%.

Collision repair facilities in our coverage area have experienced significant increased expense in their product purchases and operating expenses.

With the continued increase in natural gas and heating costs, and a further increase in coatings costs from Canadian suppliers just announced, shops are continually being burdened by increased costs of operating.

HARA has surveyed shop pricing and cost levels in Western Canada and in particular the increased costs and re-imbursement being paid in British Columbia and Manitoba and have examined their pricing formula to ensure a balanced and fair approach to any recommended pricing in Ontario.

Shops are not required to follow any price guidelines that we may recommend and no shop will suffer in their business relationship with our association should they decide not to follow our pricing recommendations.

For facilities that meet the standard accreditation levels as identified in the CISCO, CCIF or Toronto By-Law standards, we are recommending the following pricing;

Body, collision, refinishing hourly rate $55.00

Paint and prep materials hourly rate $35.00

Shop materials rate (as itemized)

Hazardous waste disposal fee $10.00 per vehicle

Administration/communications fee $55.00 per vehicle

Mandatory branding fee (if required) $55.00 per vehicle

Damage appraisal fee $55.00 per vehicle (refunded on work done)

Vehicle storage
-$30 per day (outside)
-$50 per day (inside as required or security)

Detailing vehicle $25.00

Oxygen/acetylene/welding fee $3.95

Your understanding of our increased costs is appreciated. Please contact me if you have any questions.

Yours truly,

John Norris

Executive Director

(see headlines)

June 2005

www.ciia.com is now offering the popular basic estimating course in the Eastern Toronto area. The course helps shop or office employees who need assistance in estimating collision damages on cars and light trucks in Ontario

Taught by experienced apprenticeship instructor, Jim Miles, this six-night course includes, introduction to estimating, understanding vehicle construction, fundamentals of estimate writing, understanding collision manuals, additional times and collision damage analysis.

Staring on June 29 and being offered for two nights a week over three weeks, the course is seeing held in response to shop inquiries. Location is in the East Toronto or Scarborough area.

A course outline and student information sheet is available on request. Students on the waiting list will get priority. Classes are from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. Class size is limited so please call early to avoid disappointment. Class notes are included.

Course fee is $350.00 plus GST for trade association members and $450.00 plus GST for non-members.

Students can register by calling the office at 1-866-309-4272. Students can also register by e-mailing info@ciia.com or registering online at www.ciia.com/estimating.html

Further classes are also scheduled for the Welland, Ontario area and Edmonton, Alberta.

(see headlines)

Golfers can win a new motorcycle, trip to Miami or Atlanta or new DVD Palmcorder

As golfers prepare for the 36th Annual HARA Golden Horseshoe Golf Tournament, the association announced new special hole-in-one prizes and the name of this year's charity that will be receiving a cheque form the association.

The McMaster Children's Hospital Emla Cream project will be receiving a cheque after the golf day and dinner is over. Young cancer patients that use the Children's Hospital for treatment can have the cream applied to the skin prior to a needle, and it serves to deaden the pain of the needle. The provincial health care plan does not cover the costs of the cream.

The new prizes announced for the golf tournament are:

A trip in Canada anywhere that Air Canada flies on Air Miles and new traveling luggage sets

The new hole-in-one prizes announced are:

2005 Yamaha 650 cc Silverado motorcycle
Panasonic DVD personal Palmcorder
Week long golf vacation for 2 in Miami, Florida
A weekend getaway for 2 at the Chateau Elan Resort and Winery just outside of Atlanta, Georgia

Although the tournament is almost full, there is still room for a few more golfers.

The Tournament is held at Dundas Valley Golf and Curling Club, and includes game, cart and steak dinner.

Call 1-866-309-4272 for tee-off times and to reserve your spot or register online at www.ciia.com/golf.html

(see headlines)

June 2005

www.ciia.com through the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association (HARA) is now offering the popular basic estimating course in Niagara. The course helps shop or office employees who need assistance in estimating collision damages on cars and light trucks in Ontario

Taught by experienced apprenticeship instructor, Jim Miles, this six-night course includes, introduction to estimating, understanding vehicle construction, fundamentals of estimate writing, understanding collision manuals, additional times and collision damage analysis.

Staring on June 29 and being offered for two nights a week over three weeks, the course is seeing held in response to shop inquiries. Location is the Boardroom at David Chevrolet Oldsmobile in Welland, Ontario

A course outline and student information sheet is available on request. Students on the waiting list will get priority. Classes are from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. Class size is limited so please call early to avoid disappointment. Class notes are included.

Course fee is $350.00 plus GST for trade association members and $450.00 plus GST for non-members.

Students can register by calling the office at 1-866-309-4272. Students can also register by e-mailing info@ciia.com or registering online at www.ciia.com/estimating.html

Further classes are also scheduled for the Scarborough area and Edmonton, Alberta.

(see headlines)

How to Find a Job in the Trade

Wednesday June 22. 2005 at 6:00 pm
Careerworx! 23 Main street East @ Hughson, Hamilton

Call to register at 905 575 2177

(see headlines)

Drugs, speeding among offenses

85 per cent of baby seats called unsafe

A 22-year old Mississauga motorist and his passenger were lucky to escape serious injury yesterday after their car smashed into a big rig, but police were left wondering why the airbag hadn't deployed.

Then they noticed the drugs. About eight grams of marijuana had been stuffed into the hole where the safety device should have been, said OPP Sgt. Cam Woolley.

The driver, suffering a gash to the head and charged with careless driving and drug possession, was among more than 1,300 motorists charged during the first major highway blitz of the season.

More than 700 drivers were caught for speeding and the numbers were likely to climb higher as provincial police continued their four-day crackdown, dubbed "Fine Example".

Among the speeders was a 27-year-old Brampton man who was stopped twice in the same day. In fact, only 11 minutes elapsed between his first ticket, for speeds of 127 km/h, and his second, worth seven demerit points upon conviction.

"After getting his (speeding) ticket, he immediately accelerated from the shoulder and into the passing lane, where he proceeded to tailgate another vehicle for the next two kilometers, all in plain view of the same officer who had just stopped him for speeding," Woolley said. "That earned him a ticket for following too closely."

Police charged several people with drug trafficking when an officer approached a Pontiac Sunbird at a self-serve gas bar in Burlington after the vehicle cut him off at the pump.

"The officer noticed some marijuana smoke coming from the vehicles as he approached it, and they were also drinking beer and liquor," said Woolley. The officer also discovered magic mushrooms in the vehicle.

In another drug catch, a 27-year-old Burlington man was caught with cocaine when he was pulled over for doing 138 km/h on Highway 401 in his Mercury Cougar. The charges quickly piled up as officers discovered he was in breach of probation and was driving with only a G-1 license, which prohibits highway driving, and without proof of insurance.

At least 175 vehicles were removed from the road for a variety of mechanical problems ranging from missing front brakes to defective steering.

Several drivers were ticketed for hauling unsafe loads, including the driver who lost a brand new $1,000.00 refrigerator and another who had a picnic table fall off his trailer onto Highway 404.

A 25-year-old Mississauga driver was hit with a slew of charges after he rolled a Jeep Cherokee on the eastbound ramp from Highway 401 to Erin Mills Parkway. "Witnesses reported the vehicle had been traveling at speed of about 180 km/h earlier," Woolley said.

The driver was already under suspension for three Criminal Code violations and one Highway Traffic Act suspension. He was charged with impaired driving and taking a vehicle without the owner's consent.

In other speeding incidents, a teenager caught driving a Chevy Trail Blazer at 152 km/h on Highway 400 told police that her friends dared her to see how fast she needed to go to get a speeding ticket.

Police also inspected at least 400 child safety seats, about 85 per cent of which failed the inspection, a small improvement over last year, when about 90 per cent failed.

Toronto Star - Tuesday, May 24, 2005

(see headlines)

A special invitation to our 2005 event

Date: Wednesday June 29, 2005
Location: Marconi Club, 120 Clarke Road, London, Ontario
Cost: OABR members $20, Non-members $25
Time: 6:30 pm

This is our special event to unveil the new active OABR in the London area with Guest speakers:

Alex Szabo, President, Collision Industry Standards Council of Ontario (CISCO) on industry self-management
Jay Perry, ABC Automotive Consulting- Helping you find more profits in your business
Gerald Robinson- Ontario Service Safety Alliance- Health and safety pays
John Norris -www.ciia.com- Providing services and assistance to collision
shops members of OABR

Come for the delicious hot meal and learn about the new vendors offering discount programs for OABR members

"Your association now has a member benefit program, web sites, information manuals and marketing assistance programs as well as a 1-800 number and grant, incentive manuals for our member shops. Help us help you to be more profitable. Even if you have not been an active OABR member in the past, this night will generate excitement and benefits for you. I urge you to attend."

Call OABR at 1-866-309-4272 for ticket info and to confirm your attendance.

Dear Collision Shop Owner/Manager:

The Ontario Auto Body Rebuilders (OABR) invites you to our latest special
event. Our June 29th special information and help evening is highlighted in
the enclosed invitation.

Your local association will now be much more active and offering services
with benefits with activities courtesy of www.ciia.com, the largest
collision repair assistance organization in Canada.

Exciting meetings with special guests
New fax and e-mail notices and updates
Events and information that is immediately useable with new profit
emphasis
OABR's own 1-800 number for assistance
OABR's own web site section for members
Full membership kits packed with interesting money-saving ideas

Each member receives FREE:
1. How to Market Your Shop to Brokers and Insurers manual
2. Autobody Profitability Manual
These are normally valued at $75.00 each, but free to OABR members.

Discount prices for members on the National Collision Web Site for shops needing web presence.

NEW, special OABR member benefits:
$20.00 WHMIS training
Discounted garage policy
Discounted uniforms, solvents, equipment, fuel, telephone
Grants and incentives information for hiring and technician equivalency
packages

Be sure to attend our June 29th special evening event to enjoy a hot meal, meet industry friends, and find out from our guest speakers the new profitably information for use in your shop.

For renewing or new members, we will be discounting your annual membership fee by the ticket costs that evening.

We look forward to seeing you there.

We will need to confirm your attendance for the meal. Please call OABR at 1-866-309-4272 to confirm you are attending.

Toll Free: 1-866-309-4272
E-mail: info@ciia.com Web: www.ciia.com

(see headlines)

JAMES DAW
BUSINESS COLUMNIST

In a rare move that would halt millions of dollars in refunds for car owners, Ontario's top court has decided it made a fundamental error in 2001.

The Appeal Court of Ontario sparked dozens of class-action suits across Canada when it ruled that an insurer should pay the full value of a destroyed vehicle - with no collision deductible charge - if it keeps the wreck for its salvage value.

Yesterday that same court changed its mind after hearing from lawyers for eight insurers that disputed the ruling in McNaughton Automotive Ltd. versus Co-operators General Insurance Co

"I think the proper course is to correct the McNaughton error now," wrote Mr. Justice John Laskin, supported by four other judges of the appeal court.

But the judges did not reverse the court's ruling against Co-operators, which waived about $2 million in deductible amounts after the first ruling, and set aside $5 million for refunds. A judge in London has yet to rule on how many years of refunds should be paid.

George Cooke, president of Dominion of Canada General Insurance Co., said he was "very pleased" that his company led a group of insurers to challenge the appeal court ruling.

Two other companies had settled class-action suits, while others merely fought to limit the period for retroactive refunds. "The (rest of the) industry thought we had rocks in our head to challenge the ruling after Co-operators was denied the right to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada," Cooke said.

Dominion began by attacking a 1970s small claims ruling in Alberta that was used as a precedent for the McNaughton claim in Ontario. When it won in a lower court and in an appeal, that knocked out class-action suits in all provinces with similar legislative language to Alberta's - all but Ontario and Newfoundland. Dominion lost in its first attempt to go against the Ontario appeal court ruling, but it and others succeeded yesterday.

Lawyer Michael McGowan, who brought the largest number of class-action suits seeking retroactive refunds, said 16 other companies in Ontario could now apply to benefit from the latest appeal court ruling.

But, he said, "we will seek leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada," adding "this is a bad day for consumers in Ontario. It is so unusual for the appeal court to reverse one of its decisions, especially in consumer protection cases."

Laskin wrote in his decision that changes to legislation in 1993 were poorly drafted. This created the opening for policyholders to argue they should get full compensation if they caused the collision and damaged the vehicle beyond repair and the insurer kept the wreck for salvage.

This created the ironic situation where a driver who was only partly at fault for a total vehicle loss would pay part of the deductible amount set out in collision coverage, while someone totally at fault would pay no deductible. The ambiguity was cleared up in October 2003, but the government did not make the change in wording retroactive.

Laskin agreed with arguments brought by lawyers John Campion, Earl Cherniak, Alan D'Silva that the proper meaning of a disputed section of the Insurance Act could be interpreted by reading the entire act, and plain language policy designed by the province.

Campion said yesterday's ruling sends an important message that insurers will hire senior counsel when it appears that a suit against one company could result in massive losses for all companies.

"This is a very rare case when an appeal court will overrule a decision made four years earlier (that originally had a multiplier effect to 140 companies across the country)," said Campion. The appeal court was ruling on class action suits brought against Dominion, Economical Insurance Group, Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Co, Liberty Mutual Insurance Co., Federation Insurance Co. of Canada, Belair Insurance Co., Zurich Insuranc Co. and ING Halifax.

JAMES DAW
BUSINESS COLUMNIST
TORONTO STAR

(see headlines)

By John Norris, Executive Director, HARA

The Collision Industry Information and Assistance (www.ciia.com) web site, operated by the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association, handles over 10,000 hits a day. The phone lines often field 30 calls a day and at least 60 emails. Over 400 shops call regularly for environmental help with training, certification assistance, wage incentive information, hiring questions and inquiries from insurance contact lists to manuals on how to market to brokers all the way to requests for guest speakers at their local schools to getting a fax number to send copies of abusive towing invoices.

This is how a professional collision repair trade association works.

Individual association mandates may be different but their passion and vision should be clear and consistent: Help shops, serve the interests of repairers, represent them and provide opportunities to move member interests forward.

Let's face it -- it's a tough marketplace our there and many shops are struggling to stay profitable. They need more help right now and should recognize that although their voice may not be strong individually, their association's voice can be loud, active and successful.

Why then are there so few shop members in their trade associations? One reason is lack of communications. And it goes both ways. Some repairers only hear from their trade association when once a year an invoice shows up on the fax machine. Good professional associations communicate by holding regular neighborhood style meetings or surveys to gain better incite into shop needs -- yet often shops don't show up at meetings or respond to the very associations trying to help them.

Perhaps, shops haven't yet realized the practical benefits of membership in an active association. Can shop concerns be addressed? What's in it for a shop to be a member?

GAUGE YOUR REPRESENTATION

You should always ask yourself the two basic association membership questions:

What can you do for me now and what can you do for the industry in the future?

Most professional associations can provide you their answers quickly and the better associations have so many answers that it often has grown to a list of advantages for the shop.

For instance right now, do they provide services such as benefit programs, garage insurance, uniform and product discounts, office and stationary products discounts, forms, brochures, posters, manuals, training courses, available tax credits or grants that you can use right now to cut your immediate costs and put more money in your till?

What about down the road? Can they prove to you that they are handling the meetings and writing the letters and building the necessary support with media, insurers, suppliers or government? Does the association have the respect and trust it requires to solve your issues? For instance, can they show you or post on their web site or newsletters the meeting presentations or script or news releases showing their successes in addressing your concerns.

TOUGH SCHEDULE

Many professional associations struggle with the daily frustration that they are taking time away from working on needed industry projects that can help shops and instead, are out trying to raise funds to continue on with their good work- from the very shops they are trying to help. If shops better supported their professional trade associations with their membership dues, because of their recognized value for the industry, associations could solve your industry issues quicker.

If your professional trade association is working that hard for you, you should be working hard for them. Their membership dues are fair and you should not only pay their invoice when it arrives, but be calling them to ask to become a more active member. Volunteer to be school speaker, a letter writer or employer/mentor for young students interested in working in our trade on the association's behalf. Only through your help in adding to the
common strength can your professional association make your voice, join with other voices, and become stronger, more effective and listened to where it counts.

John Norris is Executive Director of HARA, the largest local collision repair and auto refinish industry trade association in North America, operating from Hamilton, Ontario. The association also co-chairs the Environmental Compliance Assistance program with government to reduce costs, improve compliance and provide easier help tools for shops at
www.autobodyhelp.ca and 1-866-309-4272.

HARA's mandate and industry objectives and their successes in meeting those objectives are featured at: http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/hara.html

(courtesy of BODYSHOP magazine)

(see headlines)

My 17-year-old son Jordan is considering his options after high school. He recently made a comment during dinner that caught me off guard.

"Should I think about a career in the auto sector?" he asked.

It forced me to think as a father and as a businessperson. I didn't want to apply undue influence on Jordan's career choices just because I happen to be a new-car dealer.

But my position does offer me insight into the excellent opportunities that exist within this thriving industry.

My son's question prompted me to consider the importance of the next generation of skilled workers and professionals that will be called upon to lead Canada's automotive world.

When baby boomers begin retiring over the next decade, it could create a serious shortage of auto technicians, sales staff, managers and many others. Industry and government leaders have taken steps to address this issue, appealing directly to young people to consider auto careers.

Car makers and schools have beefed up recruitment efforts to attract young men and women.

"This just could be the best time to be thinking about it," I told him. "We're starting new ventures and now there are opportunities involving new ways - more sophisticated ways - of doing business."

The automotive sector is vital to Canada, contributing 170,000 direct jobs and hundreds of thousands of secondary jobs. One in four Canadians is either directly or indirectly employed within our industry.

After a while, Jordan asked: "Are there any cool jobs available in the auto sector?"

"Yes," I answered. "But I think of `cool jobs' more in terms of career opportunities. If you look closely enough in the auto sector, you'll find dozens of well-paying and fulfilling career choices."

"Like what?" he asked.

I explained that there are careers options at all levels of our industry, manufacturing, distributing and retailing.

Dealerships, for instance, need mechanics, body shop technicians, service advisers, sales reps, parts specialists, accountants, finance specialists and managers.

The auto sector offers challenging work, great opportunities for advancement, excellent remuneration and benefits, and tremendous job satisfaction for those with the right skill sets.

"What level of education do I need?"

I explained that it would depend on the type of career he chooses. But for most entry-level positions, and certainly for any professional/senior management positions, a good education makes all the difference.

In fact, 40 per cent of workers in the auto sector hold post-secondary certifications or degrees, and most automotive professionals upgrade their product knowledge and job skills on a regular basis.

In 1985, Georgian College in Barrie (http://www.georgianc.on.ca/cai) introduced the Canadian Automotive Institute (CAI) to address the needs of the automotive industry in Canada.

For students who are interested in a career in the automotive industry, Georgian College offers a six-semester, three-year co-op program that combines classroom learning with related work experience in our sector.

Georgian's automotive co-op program gives students the option to experience two levels of the automotive industry: manufacturing and retail dealership environment.

The combination of work experience and classroom learning helps students to target which type of work they would like to pursue.

The college also offers a Bachelor of Applied Business Automotive Degree program and a Business Administration Automotive program.

Canada's auto sector relies on many established apprenticeship programs to provide skilled automotive tradespeople. It also works closely with community colleges to develop co-op and full-time programs that serve the growing need for service technicians, parts specialists, body shop experts and other automotive tradespeople.

The Canadian auto sector continues to experience ongoing innovation and growth, and the cry for skilled workers is a very real one.

Jordan gave me a huge smile. I wasn't sure if it was due to the size of the steak or because of my persuasiveness on the subject of automotive careers.

"Thanks for the advice, dad," he said. "I think I'll check it out."

Young people need to be informed about job opportunities. I encourage all of us to keep promoting and discussing this subject with the young men and women who represent our future.

(courtesy TADA and the Toronto Star)

(see headlines)

KEVIN MCGRAN
TRANSPORTATION REPORTER, THE TORONTO STAR

A 25-year-old man has been charged with interfering with traffic when he refused to allow his car to be towed after his Volkswagen Corrado broke down yesterday morning on the busiest part of Highway 401.

The motorist said he didn't trust the tow truck operators who stopped to help and preferred to call the Canadian Automobile Association.

But his flat tire caused an hour-long delay, backing up traffic from Highway 400 to Warden Ave. in the westbound lanes of the 401.

Police say they were angered at the man's insistence on waiting for a flatbed, as opposed to a regular tow truck, alleging it was a ruse to buy time to allow a free tow from the CAA to arrive.

The interference charge under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act carries a maximum fine of $110.

"The economic fallout of having 40,000 to 50,000 people late for work by an hour is huge," said OPP Sgt. Rob Kobayashi. "It far outweighs the cost (to) this motorist."

The car broke down around 8:30 a.m., at a point where the 401 was down to three lanes with no shoulders due to construction.

The car's tire couldn't be removed because it was outfitted with special wheel locks on the rim and the bolt needed to remove them was left at home, police said.

A regular "wheel-lift" tow truck was ready to carry the Volkswagen almost immediately, but the man pleaded with an OPP officer for a flatbed truck instead.

Police said the man argued his modified vehicle, with skirting and fender flares, would be ruined by a regular tow, which would have cost the man up to $150.

The officer agreed and called for a flatbed, but it took about an hour to navigate through traffic. The man, who asked that his name not be used, called CAA on his own. He first asked the CAA for a flatbed, then called back and asked for a regular tow.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
`After one hour, 20 minutes, the guy ends up using the wheel-lift truck. It became quite clear he wanted the free tow as opposed to having to pay for it'

OPP Sgt. Rob Kobayashi
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

While the man and police waited and traffic continued to snarl further east, more tow trucks passed by, all telling the man his car would be safe with them.

But, police said, he insisted on waiting for a flatbed because he was worried about further damage to his car.

"Would you trust a 19-year-old tow truck driver that would not give you a straight answer on who's liable and who's not?" said the man. "I went with my reputable brand name, the CAA, the people I spend money on."

The man said he didn't know that the CAA, which offers free towing as part of its membership, would reimburse its members the cost of towing if a car breaks down on the 401 and the police order it off the road.

The CAA's regular tow truck got there at the same time as the police-ordered flatbed. The man took the free tow from a regular tow truck, the kind he had refused earlier.

"After one hour, 20 minutes, the guy ends up using the wheel-lift truck. It became quite clear he wanted the free tow as opposed to having to pay for it," said Kobayashi.

"When the CAA driver showed up with conventional wheel-lift, that's what he took. One just like it had been there an hour before. That's why the officer laid the interference charge."

The man said he felt he had no other choice than to act the way he did.

"Put yourself in my shoes," the man said. "A flat tire on a Monday morning, late for work, having no option of a shoulder.

"I'm on the 401 every day and I'm delayed every day over something - a spilled truck, a stalled vehicle - and I'm irate at that moment.

"But I haven't put myself in that person's shoes to know what they would do. I was inside that person's shoes today and I'm stuck with no other options," he said.

(see headlines)

Ford Says Clip Repair Procedure Not Recommended

Ford Motor Company said in an official statement that it does not approve the use of clips to repair collision damage to vehicles. The statement, released in response to repairer questions about the practice of clipping, said that the use of a clip voids Ford's New Vehicle Limited Warranty and any variety of Ford's Extended Service Plan, as well as Ford's new vehicle service part and corrosion warranties for each part in the clip.

Ford also said that the use of a clip also voids any variety of Ford's Extended Service Plan, new vehicle service part warranty and corrosion warranty for any damage to individual components, assemblies or systems on the original vehicle caused by individual components, assemblies or systems in the clip.

Ford strongly recommends that repairers and insurers considering the use of a clip carefully check state collision repair laws and regulations to determine whether the vehicle must be re-titled as rebuilt or salvage if the clip procedure is used. Ford also strongly recommends that repairers advise and obtain the written repair authorization of the vehicle owner, in advance, if the clip procedure is to be used and re-titling is required.

Ford has adopted this position because it cannot be confident clip repair procedures return vehicles to pre-accident condition. Because every clip repair is unique, it is impossible to test whether the repair technique affects the safety, performance or durability of the vehicle.

Other factors weigh heavily in this position, including:

Hidden damage to individual components, assemblies or systems in the "clip" that may not be readily apparent to the repairer.

Improper removal techniques and exposure to weather that may degrade the performance characteristics of individual components, assemblies or systems in the "clip."

Mismatching of individual components, assemblies or systems. Individual component, assembly and system modifications occur throughout the production life of new-model vehicles. It is possible a "clip" component, assembly or system will not be compatible with the vehicle it is being used to repair.

Ford recommends that only genuine Ford replacement parts be used for collision repair to protect all parties - vehicle owners, repairers and insurers - involved in the collision repair process. Ford also is working diligently to control the cost of major collision repairs. After research and testing, it has developed several frame sectioning procedures - and
unique frame sectioning repair parts - that have been proven not to affect the safety, performance or durability of the repaired vehicle. Ford recommends repairers and insurers consider these procedures as a practical and cost-effective alternative to clipping.

The use of front or rear clips to repair major damage to a vehicle is a practice that involves replacing an entire section of a vehicle with a similar section from a donor vehicle - typically one that has been declared a total loss.

(courtesy of CollisionWeek)

(see headlines)

May 26, 2005

Steve Gunjilac told secondary school teachers at a recent Mohawk College co-op seminar for that his involvement with co-operative education and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) has been very successful.

Steve's, 18-year old son, Adam works as an apprentice in Steve's shop and is a graduate of the Catholic school board's co-op program.

Adam told conference delegates that he enjoys his work and learning.

"Adam is full of knowledge, and has finsihed his first term as an Autobody and Collision Damage Repairer apprentice", says father Steve. "Now it's a matter of applying that knowledge."

Representatives of the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities were also on hand and told the teacher audience that about 15% of the apprentices that they are now seeing locally, come to them after university graduation.

The Co-op OYAP Conference organized by the public and catholic local school boards provided teachers with the tools necessary to use many of the resources and lesson designs currently available to teach career studies and career awareness.

For more information on OYAP please see:
http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/training/apprenticeship/skills/oyap.html

(see headlines)

CAREER FAIR FOR APPRENTICESHIP

Staff from www.ciia.com attended the Career Fair for Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades for the Centre d'emploi francophone Grade 11 and 12 students.

With 25-30 kiosks and hundreds of high school students, the event at the Canadian Auto Workers Hall in St. Catharine's attracted more interested students looking for a career in collision repair, auto body and auto refinishing.

For more information on a career in the industry, please see:

http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/training.html

(see headlines)

TORONTO, May 17 /CNW/ - The McGuinty government will reduce the dropout rate and create new opportunities for all students with a $158 million secondary school investment, Education Minister Gerard Kennedy said today as he announced the first details of the $820 million 2005-06 increase to publicly funded education.

"We have undertaken a concentrated program to transform our high schools so they are equipped to unlock the potential of every student," said Kennedy. "We will dramatically reduce Ontario's unacceptably high dropout rate and give all high school students the ability to succeed in their destination of choice - whether that means a work placement with training, apprenticeship, college or university."

The McGuinty government has increased its investment in education to over $17 billion since coming to office. Of the $820 million boost for education in this year's overall budget, $158 million will be allocated to the Student Success Program. Last year, $100 million was invested in initiatives to help more high school students graduate and lower dropout rates. An estimated 30 per cent of high school students are at risk of not graduating.

The government will continue to invest in programs to keep students learning, at least to age 18. The comprehensive plan to fundamentally shift the role of high schools includes:

- $89 million for 1,300 new high school teachers, contingent on successful labour agreements. At least 800 teachers dedicated to the student success program,
- At least one student success teacher in each school to work with students who need extra help,
- Lowered class sizes in specific courses and more resource teachers, such as librarians and guidance counselors that benefit all high school students,
- $23 million in special projects to support struggling students and students with English as a second language - more details of thisinvestment will be announced soon,
- $14.5 million for textbooks for secondary schools.

In addition, $31 million has been allocated in one-time funding to support student Success, this includes:
- An additional $25 million, for a total of $45 million, for technological education programs - New equipment, expanded programs and increased opportunities for students,
- $6 million to purchase new resource materials for secondary school libraries.

Over 70 per cent of parents expect that their children are headed for university, but only 33 percent of high school students go on to university after graduation. The Student Success Program provides experiential learning that gives students workplace skills and experience - so every student, including those who do not choose university, have a good outcome from their high school education.

"From horticultural studies to culinary arts to avionics and construction, our high schools will give students more exposure and preparation for in-demand skilled trades and apprenticeships," said Willowdale MPP David Zimmer who joined Kennedy at Newtonbrook Secondary School. Other student success initiatives already underway in Ontario high
schools include:

- Student success leaders in every school board,
- Resources for principals and teachers to deliver local action plans to meet the specific needs of students,
- Revisions to the curriculum to offer more flexibility and options, and
- Training for teachers.

An upcoming announcement will provide details about increased funding for library resources and special projects for secondary schools.

Significantly higher test scores in reading and writing illustrate the impact the student success initiatives are having on student achievement. The percentage of first-time eligible English-language students taking applied courses who passed the Grade 10 literacy test went from 49 per cent in October 2003 to 62 per cent in October 2004 - a 27 per cent increase.

(see headlines)

In a May 20 Chapter 11 filing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Cleveland, the company that does business under the name "Warranty Wizard" said it had liabilities of $8.8 million and assets of $948,57 5

(courtesy UCDA)

(see headlines)

Canadian collision industry professionals who attended the May 13, 2005 "Aluminum Repairs - Evolution or Revolution" seminar now have an increased knowledge base of where the industry is headed in the future with aluminum materials and vehicle makers' designs. Not only were attendees given presentations by industry leaders but they were also the first participants to ever see the newest I-CAR training program - Aluminum Panels and
Structures Damage Analysis (DAM05) - during a pilot for the program slated for release later this year.

"CARSTAR is the leader in the Canadian collision industry. As such, we have an obligation to our franchisee's, our insurance partners, and our suppliers to dispel the myths about aluminum, high-strength steel, and other new materials being used by the OEMs. This one-day seminar showed us that I-CAR is the leader in sharing this information with us and our stakeholders. All of us now have a better understanding of what our needs are to handle these new vehicle designs, so that we can complete repairs to the manufacturer's
specification. This will ensure that our mutual customers, the vehicle owner, will have their repairs done right at our CARSTAR locations across Canada. My sincere thanks to I-CAR, and its team for a bang up job!" said CARSTAR Automotive Canada President and CEO Sam Mercanti.

Steve Marks, I-CAR Industry Support Manager, presents to a full classroom on the topic of "Automotive Trends."

Mark Kadrovach of Audi of America addresses the attendees during one of the aluminum presentations.

Attendees learn about OEM aluminum repair networks from Eric Leport, BMW Canada.

An overview of the seminar events includes:

"Automotive Trends"
Presenter - Steve Marks, I-CAR

This presentation offered insight into emerging technologies being used by vehicle makers. Topics discussed included aluminum vehicle construction, new advanced high strength steels, and the use of new composite materials. There was also a brief overview of some of the electromechanical systems being introduced on some of today's vehicles.

"OEM Aluminum Repair Networks"
Presenter - Mark Kadrovach, Audi of America and Eric Leport, BMW Canada

OEM representatives were on hand to cover information on their respective aluminum repair networks. Topics discussed include equipment and repair facility requirements and information on training requirements.

"Aluminum Panels and Structures Damage Analysis (DAM05)" I-CAR Instructor - Steve Hudey, Manitoba Public Insurance

I-CAR conducted the pilot class of this new I-CAR training program. This was the first time that this program was seen by the public. The class not only provided attendees with the knowledge essential for accurately analyzing damage on aluminum-intensive vehicles, it also offered an opportunity for attendees to add input for suggested changes to the program before its North American release. Topics discussed included aluminum characteristics, aluminum-intensive vehicle designs and construction, damage analysis, and information on panel attachment, removal, and installation methods.

CARSTAR Automotive Canada Executive Vice President Larry Jefferies added, "In addition to the obvious need and value of having the knowledge and training on the technical aspects of new vehicle technology, the manner in which I-CAR is focusing on engaging the OEMs and ensuring the professional collision repairer has the opportunity to work with them is of great benefit to all. Thanks!"

The event took place at the CARSTAR location in Mississauga, Ontario and was widely attended by various Canadian collision industry professionals.

Attendees, who represented collision repair facilities and insurance companies, were also provided breakfast and lunch courtesy of CARSTAR.

Congratulations on the success of the event. Keep your eyes on the I-CAR class schedules for the eventual release of Aluminum Panels and Structures Damage Analysis (DAM05) later this fall!

(see headlines)

CISCO PROVIDES UPDATE FOR ONTARIO SHOPS

May 31, 2005

An update to the Ontario collision repair industry from the Collision Industry Standards Council of Ontario (CISCO) representing collision repair facilities in this province.

In 1999, representative of all local collision repair trade associations in Ontario, formally incorporated the non-profit Collision Industry Standards Council of Ontario (CISCO), to represent the auto body, collision repair and auto refinish industry. CISCO had one goal - the establishment of legislated self-managed shop accreditation program. The vision of an industry-managed provincial-wide voice of professional, competent and caring collision repairers operating on a level-playing field of fairness was the motivator.

The goal was the passage of legislation at Queen's Park to put into form a Bill that would ensure self-management and a series of mandatory shop standards for equipment, legal compliance and customer service that were fair and reasonable, protected the public and encouraged good and honest operations in the industry.

Twenty-five stakeholder meetings were conducted, insurer and government organizations consulted and in December 2002, the legislature approved a private members' Bill introduced by Conservative MPP'S Frank Klees and Rob Sampson - Bill 186, the Collision Repair Standards Act (2002). Although celebrated by industry, the Act has never been proclaimed and efforts by CISCO to encourage government enthusiasm to put the Bill into force continue to be met with reluctance.

Segments of the Collision Repair Standards Act have been implemented in other legislation - provincial controls on "bandit" towing are in front of Cabinet, disclosure of aftermarket parts and full identification of repair costs to consumers takes effect July 30, CISCO standards have been accepted by other national organizations and insurance companies and municipal By-Laws have adopted CISCO's standards as their own. Despite these successes, we still have not achieved the industry dreams of a self-managed provincially mandated program.

We want to move forward with identifying to government the advantages of the implementation of Bill 186, and need your help. Consultants, lobbyists, meetings and efforts to attract other levels of support are expensive, and we are asking for your contribution to CISCO, to allow us to help our industry. We have to gain control and direction over our industry. We have invested our lives and our children's future into our shops, only to watch the backyard, illegitimate shops take our business away. How can we compete with shops that do not pay taxes, and perform improper repairs? Others have controlled and made decisions that have not always been in our best interests and we have to stand together as an industry so that we can control the direction of our businesses. In 1999 you chose twelve individuals through your local associations, listed below, who have unselfishly spent many hours over the last six years away from their businesses to help all of us. Unfortunately, it takes money to take action, and while most of us have everything invested our businesses, considering the size of our current investments, a donation to CISCO is the best investment we can ever make for the future.

Please help us with your contribution of $100.00, $150.00 or $200.00 or more. Cheques made payable to CISCO can be forwarded to 34 Plaza Drive, P.O. Box 63051 Dundas, Ontario L9H 6Y3.

Information on CISCO can be found at www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/cisco.html.

Thank you,
On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

Tony Canade, Wes Killins, Randy Sundell, Bill Davis, John Norris, Don Teevens
Brian Good, John Reiner, Mike Wilson, Walter Grego, Doug Rothwell

Alex Szabo
CISCO President
905-627-5458

(see headlines)

CCIF Chairman Larry Jefferies will open the meeting at 8:00 am, following registration and breakfast beginning at 7:00 am.

CCIF is an open forum that brings together all industry participants including collision repairers, insurers, suppliers, service providers and associations. CCIF meets fours times a year in different cities across Canada focusing on actions that bring change on issues such as performance, profitability, efficiency, professionalism and "Need to Know" topics.

Jefferies calls for more collision repairers to participate in CCIF. "There are hundreds of CCIF participants," he says, "but there should be thousands. Through CCIF their voice influences and drives those that can make a difference for our industry - AIA, I-CAR, CARS, trade associations. We must leverage CCIF's strength and take the industry to a new level."

The morning session covers topics of industry interest, followed by the afternoon session, which offers attendees the opportunity to join break out discussion groups to address industry issues.

A reception will take place after the meeting at 5:00.

For further details you may contact CCIF Administrator Mike Bryan at Tel: 905 726 9027 or e-mail administrator@ccif.net

Download registration form from CCIF web site. (Adobe Acrobat)

(see headlines)

May 2, 2005

A number of workers in the autobody and collision damage repair trade have been employed in the trade in excess of the 7000 hours required for a licensed technician. However, they’re not registered technicians.

Traditionally the only way to become a licensed technician would be to complete an in-school learning portion of 720 hours for training as a registered apprentice and an approximate time of three years working with a qualified technician, before challenging the qualification exam. An alternative process is also available. CIIA.com has introduced a free package. Included in the collision repair, auto body and auto refinishing package are:

- Process for trades equivalency including application page

- Curriculum of competencies required

- Pre-license training class information

- Fee information for license exam

- Grants, incentives and tax deductions to hire an apprentice

- Ten Top Steps to Become a Collision Repair Apprentice

If you need this free package or have an employee who has never completed trades school or completed his/her Certificate of Qualification exam, please contact us.

Please call CIIA at 1-866-309-4272 or e-mail info@ciia.com

The online version of the Top Ten Steps to Become a Collision Repair Apprentice can be found at:

http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/stepstoapp.html

(see headlines)

New posters and packages assist repair facilities

By urging shops to access the latest help from the industry trade association, shop owner, Tony Nigro, says " this is free information that every shop should take advantage of and use".

Tony is talking about the free:

"What you Should Know"- a poster that must be clearly displayed in all shops on the rights of workers under the Ontario Employment Standards Act Click here for poster

Grants, Incentives and Tax credits- a new package of information for shops so that owners can take advantage of incentives to hire and train more apprentices and young workers

Technician certification equivalency - a complete how-to package that can help your long-term but uncertified, technicians apply to take their collision repair mandatory trade exam- includes new pre-license training dates and what industry competencies are covered on the final exam

Environment compliance simplified kit- the well-known shop package (also found online at www.autobodyhelp.ca ) to assist shops to successfully possess a mandatory Certificate of Approval for their spray operations. Don't wait until your shop receives a Provincial Offenses Order- get the kit today!

Mandatory environmental training and WHMIS training- Call today to receive the information and registration info !

"Autobody Profitability Workbook"- this package will help shops meet compliance levels and find more customers-members only

"How to Market Your Shop to Brokers and Insurers"- a guide to building insurance industry business- members only

All these packages and more are available to shops by calling www.ciia.com at
1-866-309-4272 or info@ciia.com

HARA helps

For a printable Motorist rights poster please click here

(see headlines)

Mohawk College is offering a 5-day Pre-License course to assist autobody technicians in preparing for the Certificate of Qualification exam.

Ontario law states that all technicians working in the Autobody and Collision Repair trade must fall into one of two categories; they must be either a licensed tradesperson or a registered apprentice.

Pre-License training is intended to help those who may have had difficulties in writing the Certificate of Qualification exam in the past, or for technicians who simply want to increase their chances of success when facing the exam.

A main focus area of the training will be to review of the many terms and concepts of the trade. Also included in the course are hundreds of practice questions intended to sharpen the technician’s skill in correctly understanding and answering typical exam questions. It is important to note, however, that this course is NOT a replacement for the regulation 24-week Apprenticeship Training.

Taught by apprenticeship instructor Jim Miles, the course will be offered in 5 straight days beginning on Monday June 6 and finishing on Friday June 10, 2005. Classes will start at 8:30 a.m. each day and finish at 4:30 p.m. The cost will be approximately $225.00.

Anyone who is interested in attending should email Jim Miles @ jim.miles@mohawkcollege.ca or contact him by phone @ 905-575-1212 by no later than May 15, 2005.

(see headlines)

How did HARA help its members and the industry in 2004?

1) New regulations to control deceptive, unfair practices particularly in towing

2) Aided in six charges being laid against local “chasers”

3) New financial monthly newsletter from SB Partners free to members

4) Instituted regional member newsletters to provide more member assistance

5) Made two $75 manuals available free to members

6) New financing of repairs package free to members

7) Updated supplier discount program for members from NEBS

8) New rules on rebuilt airbags and painting air bag covers

9) Expanded CofA and audit assistance made available to shops

10) New rules on additional pricing for salvage vehicle inspections

11) Introduced brand appeal process for total loss vehicles

12) Web site enhancements on www.ciia.com with 2.8 million hits in 12 months

13) Offering free employment online ads for shops and members

14) Sponsored six Basic Estimating classes with discount pricing for members

15) Set up donations program to link schools with suppliers

16) Provide government with new definitions of service provider

17) Working with Halton police on new towing by-law

18) Started new www.autobodyhelp.ca online free assistance

19) Started local area meetings to assist shops

20) Start of apprentice renewal initiative

21) Working on new isocyanate control review program to better protect shops

22) New sprayc.a.r.e accreditation program proposed

23) Draft price list supplied to shops for review

24) 35th annual golf tournament with donation to local charity

25) Special insurers’ panel at October 7 special event

26) Successful introduction of online environmental training

27) Updated WHMIS training offered

28) Ongoing meetings with cabinet ministers on CISCO and Bill 186

29) Presentations to relevant groups – IBC, PAVE, OABR, CISCO, CAMPE

30) New court ordered tow storage rates set for Toronto

31) Requested to Mitchell for re-keying shop help

32) New equivalency package for trades certification updated

33) Request of ADP for rebate of funds due to October disc error

34) New 25% tax credit for hiring apprentices

35) All members receive free online news events information

36) New MOYAP style auto body course being discussed for secondary school

37) New improved benefit program announced

38) Four day meeting with MTO to update salvage brand and inspection program

39) New help package for salvage inspection for shops

40) Over 1000 students completing new training course

41) Simplified self-survey for environmental profitability now available

(see headlines)