The Connecticut Collision Repair Specialists Association held its annual dinner banquet with Jeff Hendler as the keynote speaker. Attendees were challenged to identify and implement processes that create efficiencies – which in today’s environment, truly spurs economic growth, the association believes.
“It is essential that we continue to lead — consistently challenging ourselves to be better, to become part of the solution when dealing with our insurance partners and vendors, and provide inspirational leadership to our employees,” said Hendler.
Hendler, who resides in Pasco, Wash., has been part of the collision repair industry for over 30 years. He is a founding member of the Collision Industry Conference, acting as chairman in 1987-1988, and the administrative director since 1984. Also a founding member of I-CAR, Jeff was inducted into the Hall of Eagles in 1989. He has been honored by Society of Collision Repair Specialists with a “Lifetime Achievement Award” in 2003 as well as named as one of the “Top 25 Movers and Shakers of the 20th Century by Automotive Body Repair News.
Lisa Siembab, CCRS executive director, said, “Jeff is a great friend of CCRS, and we were very pleased to have him address our members again. He realizes the challenges repairers face on a daily basis, and he offers solutions.”
In addition to the guest speaker, CCRS announced the newly elected 2010-2012 Executive Board. Bob McSherry, North Haven Autobody, is the new CCRS chairman. Doug Fernandez, president, Turnpike Motors, and Mike Tarzia, owner of Mike’s Towing & Collision, will serve as vice-chairmen, while Pat Venus, owner, Georgetown Auto Body, will serve as CCRS treasurer. Richard Zacchia from Traynor Collision is the new CCRS secretary.
“This is a time for our members to come together and celebrate our accomplishments from the past year. We also take time to acknowledge and thank our company sponsors that have supported our efforts all year. Without them, we could not accomplish our objectives,” said Siembab.
Company sponsors were on hand, featuring their products and services and to network with CCRS members and guests. The highlight of the night was the 2010 CCRS Spirit Award. Each year, a CCRS member is recognized for their contributions and commitment to CCRS and the collision repair industry in Connecticut. This year’s award recipient was John Curren from Empire CARSTAR.
“John has given endless time to our association as chair of the Community Awareness Committee, spearheading our annual Toy Drive, school supply project and the Recycled Rides program,” said Angelo Campanella, CCRS immediate past chairman. “John is always there and has given a lot to our association and communities.”
In closing remarks, Lisa Siembab addressed the attendees.
“Tonight is a time to reflect on our accomplishments. We look forward to another great year – our members will be challenged more than ever with the current economic climate – but this is why we exist. CCRS seeks to serve our industry – one repairer, at a time," she said.
