The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey (AASP/NJ) announced that they added two names to the list of influential people to be welcomed into the Hall of Fame at their 2015 annual meeting.
Peter Cook of P&N Auto Works (East Orange) and Citro’s Auto Body (Pompton Lakes) has been a member of the association since the 1980s, and soon after joining, he found a seat for himself on the Board of Directors. Over the years, Cook has served as director, secretary and treasurer, and was an instrumental part of organizing the NORTHEAST Automotive Services Show for more than 20 years.
“I was shocked when I heard my name called,” said Cook. “I’ve been a member of the association for a long time. It’s a great group of guys, and I’m so lucky to call them my peers and my friends. I’m honored to join some of the great people who are also a part of the Hall of Fame.”
Dan Hawtin of Auto Body Craftsman, Inc., in Island Heights was the second inductee of the night. Having been a significant force in the early days of the AASP/NJ merger (in particular, Chapter One), he was an obvious choice for this nomination, with AASP/NJ Executive Director Charles Bryant calling him “a fighter.”
“I was absolutely, totally surprised; I was floored,” said Hawtin of his induction. “A lot of guys work a whole lot harder, but they were gracious and it was gratifying that they think that of me.”
President Jeff McDowell has no doubt that these two men are more than deserving of their awards.
“These two guys have had such an impact on the association and where we are today,” he said. “We need more people like them who are willing to put in the time and effort to make a difference.”
