SSDA SERVICE Service Station Dealers Association QUARTERLY MAGAZINE $10 PER ISSUE MARCH 1994 The official publication of The Service Station Dealers Association of Michigan 65 1929Retail Gas Dealers News FOR L AARONSON. Editor Published Monthly Cash B. Hawley by Rankin P. Peck. 65 Director

Vice-President Treasurer

275 E ast F erry MAdison 1445 Detroit, M ichigan

subscriptions $1.00 a Year to Members, $I.50 a Year to Non-Members

Vol. 1 Single Copies 15c No. 1

MARCH 15TH PROPOSAL A: STAGE II SUSPENSION KNOWING YOUR OPTIONS On February 11, 1994, the that Stage II suspension was Engler administration an­ delayed due to a close review For years, property taxes 3. Exempt school operat­ nounced that it had sus­ of the 200 page rules created have been providing the ma­ ing millages from uniform pended the Stage II gasoline by the EPA in January. jority of funding for Michi­ taxation requirement. vapor recovery program in Although Stage II require­ gan schools. This past sum­ 4. Require 3/4 vote of leg­ Michigan. Suspension of ments have been suspended, mer, however, the Legisla­ islature to exceed school op­ these requirements was a re­ they could still be necessary ture voted to abandon prop­ erating millage rates. sult of the January 24th pro­ if air violations occur. “MDA erty taxes as the primary 5. Activate laws raising mulgation of onboard canis­ retains the authority to im­ source of school revenue. By additional school revenues ter rules requiring auto mak­ plement the Stage II vapor Christmas 1993, the task of through taxation including ers to begin installing fuel control program as a contin­ finding a way to replace this partial restoration of prop­ vapor recovering canisters gency measure for an area lost revenue was established erty tax. on passenger cars. redesignated by the EPA if a and two competing plans 6. Nullify alternative The promulgation of rules violation of the ozone stan­ were adopted; a ballot pro­ laws raising school revenues resulted from a court order dard is observed,” Robert posal and a statutory backup through taxation including mandated deadline of Jan ­ Craig explained. plan. an increase in income tax, uary 22, 1994. (As reported This announcement affects On March 15, 1994 the personal tax exemption in­ in the December issue of Ser­ approximately 3,000 retail next step in this K-12 fi­ crease and partial restora­ vice Quarterly.) Rule pro­ gas stations and other dis­ nance reform debate will be tion of property taxes. mulgation triggered provi­ pensing facilities in 10 Michi­ taken. A State-Wide Special The most obvious differ­ sions of the Clean Air Act re­ gan counties. A portion of Election will be held to de­ ence in the statutory plan moving the Stage II require­ which were scheduled to have termine which of the plans (which will automatically be ment in moderate non-at­ installed special vapor recov­ will go into effect. If the Con­ implemented if the ballot tainment areas. ery nozzles on gas pumps as stitutional Amendment (bal­ plan fails) is the increase in Michigan Department of early as May 13, 1994 and lot) proposal fails, the statu­ income tax from 4.6% to Agriculture Director Bill others by November 13, 1995. tory proposal will become 6.0% with no change in the Schuette stated, “The Admin­ The affected counties are: law. sales/use tax. This leaves istration has suspended the Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, The constitutional amend­ many voters feeling as requirements of the Stage II Monroe, Washtenaw, Liv­ ment (ballot proposal) would: though Lansing is forcing gasoline vapor recovery pro­ ingston, Kent, Ottawa, and 1. Limit annual assess­ them to choose strictly be­ gram because it was required Muskegon. ment increase for each prop­ tween the lesser of two evils: to do so when new onboard Since onboard require­ erty parcel to 5% or inflation a sales tax increase or an in­ vehicle vapor control rules ments apply to vehicles sold rate, whichever is less. come tax increase. were promulgated by the US nationwide, both attainment When property is sold or Despite earlier criticism Environmental Protection and non-attainment areas transferred, adjust assess­ of both school finance plans, Agency.” Suspension of will benefit from reduced ment to current value. the Michigan Chamber of Stage II requirements was emissions. EPA notes that 2. Increase the sales/use Commerce and the Greater possible under a clause in health benefits will be real­ tax from 4% to 6%, with ad­ Detroit Chamber of Com­ our state legislation requir­ ized as onboard canisters re­ ditional revenue to be dedi­ merce have now endorsed ing the director to do so when sult in the reduction of expo­ cated to schools. (Residen- the ballot proposal. The the final onboard rule was sure of consumers and ser­ tial energy utilities would be Michigan Education Associ- presented by the EPA. vice station employees to exempt from the additional Robert Craig, Agriculture gasoline vapors during vehi­ rate.) C o n t in u e d O n P a g e 7 Policy Director, explained cle refueling. ♦ Attention Service Station Dealers:

If you're in the market for a health plan, get the most accepted, unquestioned coverage there is. MARCH 5SDA 1994 Service Station Dealers Association 1st Q u a r t e r , 1994 Vol. VII, No. XXV, ISSN 1043-7053

FEATURES ARTICLES

8 Environmental Update P rofiles: Changes in AET Meet the newly elected officers and 5 executive committee members of the 12 Law Talk SSDA-MI. Attorney Mark Cousens discusses leases and lease backs.

13 Safety Tips Who’s Minding the Store? E d u cation Finance Reform 14 Money Review An in-depth Managing Debt Brings Better Sleep. comparison of Proposal A 's 15 Business Focus Ballot Plan vs. Strategy and Outlook for Stocks in 1994. Statutory Plan 17 Social Security Q & A Write for a Benefit Estimate.

AD INDEX

Support these SSDA-MI supplier advertisers. If you do not see your supplier on this list, you may want to encourage them to sign up with the Service Station Dealers Association of Michigan at (517) 484-4096. The suppliers on this list are ded­ icated to supporting our industry.

A d v e r t i s e r ...... P a g e A&S H eating & Cooling...... 11 Arrow U niform ...... 4 Beckler C onsultants...... 7 Blue Cross Blue Shield of M ichigan...... 2 Comerica B ank...... 19 Outstanding Employee Davidson Sales & M aintenance Co...... 17 Contest Winner D odson...... 15 Dave Hargis of Colonial Amoco, Eby-Brown...... 8 St. Clair Shores. FEA M anagem ent...... 6 Ft. Dearborn Life Insurance...... 22 Gas Pum p Books...... 13 DEPARTMENTS Hawkins E quipm ent...... 12 Lawrence A. Wright, Inc...... 24 4 President’s Corner Mellema’s Service Station Maintenance, Inc...... 18 6 V iew p o in t Parks Installation Co...... 18 9 News Briefs 11 E d ito ria l Pro-Tank Technologies, Inc...... 10 16 Dates & Deadlines Superior E nvironm ental...... 6 19 New Members The Oscar W. Larson Co...... 8 20 Member Application Tire Wholesalers...... 9 23 New Products Visser’s Tank Testing, Inc...... 14

Service Quarterly is published quarterly by the Service Station Dealers Association of Michigan, 200 North Capitol Ave. Suite 420, Lansing, Michigan 48933. ©1994, SSDA-MI. Subscription price to all members is free. All other U.S. subscrip­ tions, $40.00 per year. Prepayment of $10.00 is required for single copy orders. Subscription inquires call SSDA-MI at (517) 484-4096. Address all single copy requests along with payment to SSDA-MI, 200 N. Capitol, Suite 420, Lansing, Michigan 48933. Postmaster: Please send address changes to same.

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 3 PRESIDENT’S CORNER By Mick Kildea, SSDA-MI President

SSDA-MI MEANS PEOPLE WORKING TOGETHER

hy is there a Ser­ nessmen in any industry ment in which to run a vice Station Deal­ have found that the collec­ business. SSDA is more W ers Association of tive intelligence of a group is than an office. It is “peo­ Michigan and a Service Sta­ greater than the intelligence ple working together” to tion Dealers of America? of any one person. They accomplish what none of us W hat are they set up to do? know that unity of purpose can do alone. board of directors take the Is it worth belonging to? and unity of action will carry Perhaps the most impor­ helm, I think the members Despite the proven worth our industry further than tant reason for the existence can be proud of the work the of trade associations in mod­ any amount of individual ef­ of SSDA is that we are part Service Station Dealers As­ ern Western economies, fort. They are aware also of a great experience in sociation of Michigan has these questions are still that each individual “player” democracy, a bulwark done for the one cause of being asked by a few whose benefits directly from the against the times of unfair unifying the independent preoccupation with their success of the “team” competition and other gasoline dealers in Michi­ own daily routine leaves An industry without a equally destructive ele­ gan. On the opposite page, them unable to “see the for­ trade association is like a ments. We are working to­ you will meet the new offi­ est for the trees”. community without churches, gether to make the free en­ cers and executive commit­ The whole philosophy of a for just as churches set the terprise system work in our tee of the SSDA-MI. I look trade association like SSDA moral environment in which industry. forward to working with all can be summed up in these to live and raise a family, so On this our 65th anniver­ of them, as we enter our words: “People working to­ do trade associations set the sary, as the new officers, ex­ 65th year in service. ♦ gether” Successful busi­ ethical, economic environ­ ecutive committee, and Before you decide on a uniform company.. Check under the hood! You need to keep your customer's engine running clean. You also need to keep your workplace running clean a n d professional. Arrow Uniform Rental offers a full range of ap­ parel products for your station. The largest color and garment selection. No-scratch belts. Socks. Work gloves. Caps, vests, jackets and more. Plus, Arrow's maintenance and safety products provide your workplace with both a professional image and a safer working environment. Shop and roll towels. Soap dispensing systems. Entrance mats and lockers. Let Arrow design a system tailor-made to suit your needs. For a complete diagnostic call 1-800-55-ARROW, ext. 610.

Keeping You Looking Good On The Job

Detroit • Livonia • Grand Rapids Kalamazoo • Jackson • Saginaw • Cadillac

4 SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER. 1994 PROFILE: New Officers & Executive Committee

On January 1, 1994 the newly elected Officers, Executive Norm Fischer, Past President Committee, and Directors took the helm of the Service Station Eastland Shell Service - Burton Term Serving: 1/1/92 -12/31/95 Dealers Association of Michigan. The SSDA-MI understands Been in the business: 24 + years that it takes a special kind of person/dealer to run for office of S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? the Board of Directors. It takes a contribution of time and ef­ N.F. I first learned what the Association had to offer at a 1976 As­ sociation meeting explaining the new Michigan Motor Vehicle Ser­ fort to work toward bettering the situation for all independent vice and Repair Act. retailers in Michigan. In this profile we asked each of the Of­ S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member deal­ ficers and Executive Committee the same two questions: 1. ers, what would it be? N.F. So long as you never run into problems, you may think you What made you get involved with the Association?, and 2. If don’t need the Association. But if you ever run into a problem with there is one thing you would like to tell non-member dealers, your lease, an environmental issue, or supplier relations, you’ll what would it be? Below are their profiles and answers. wish you had the Association on your side.

George Schuhmacher. Past Vice President Colonial Standard Service - St. Clair Shores Joseph “Mick” Kildea, President Term Serving: 1/1/94 -12/31/95 Kildea Kar Kare - E ast Lansing Been in the business: 26 years Term Serving: 1/1/94 -12/31/95 S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? Has been in the business: 28 years G.S. I worked in the service station business through high school and S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? college and learned from other professionals the importance of be­ M.K. Coming out of the shop, I was unionized so I have always be­ longing to the Association. lieved in the strength of togetherness. S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member deal­ S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member dealers, ers, what would it be? what would it be? G.S. The younger men in our industry must learn that joining the M.K. You get more bang for your buck with the SSDA-MI than you SSDA will enhance their chances to get ahead. They cannot really do anywhere else. understand and appreciate our association without seeing first hand what it accomplishes for the entire industry.

Dennis Sidorski, Vice President Ed Weglarz, Executive Committee J & S Shell Service - Ann Arbor Hunter & Oak Amoco Service - Birmingham Term Serving: 1/1/94 -12/31/95 Term Serving: 1/1/93 -12/31/94 Been in the business: 26 years Been in the business: 29 years S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? E.W. I wanted to feel like I was part of an organization and not just D.S. I first joined the SSDA-MI for the great membership benefits an independent retailer out on my own. including the Blue Cross health insurance, but soon after, I learned of the other crucial work the Association did. S.Q. If there is one thing you would like to tell non-member deal­ ers, what would it be? S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member dealers, what would it be? E.W. You should jo in the association because it gives you the D.S. We do better together. The Association has proven, through its chance to take advantage of opportunities and problem solving so­ lutions along with other dealers. political achievements, that together we can make a difference.

Louis McAboy, 2nd Vice President Ric Evenson, Executive Committee Big Beaver John R. Shell - Detroit Evenson Enterprises, Inc. - Plymouth Term Serving: 1/1/94 -12/31/95 Term Serving: 1/1/93 - 12/31/94 Been in the business: 22 years Been in the business: 25 + years S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? L.M. Since I was with Shell, I knew what a major factor the Associa­ R.E. I got involved with the SSDA-MI to help protect the indepen­ tion was in the petroleum industry. dent dealer’s interest, because no one else was. S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member dealers, S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member deal­ what would it be? ers, what would it be? L.M. A ll dealers that plan on being a contender in the business R.E. Join! For all the good we can do, we can do much more with should get involved. The Association is the independent dealers link more members. to the major oil companies.

Jim Malek, Executive Committee Dave Cornish, 3rd Vice President Malek’s Shell - Grand Haven Westgate Amoco - Ann Arbor Term Serving: 1/1/94 - 12/31/95 Term Serving: 1/1/94 -12/31/95 Been in the business: 22 years Been in the business: 28 years S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? J.M . I believe it was M ernll Aulm who came to my station with D.C. I originally joined to become better informed about my busi­ material about the SSDA-MI. I read it and was convinced ness and also for the camaraderie of other dealers. S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member deal­ S.Q. If there is one thing you would like to tell non-member dealers, ers, what would it be? what would it be? J.M. Our type of business is so complex, without the Association, I D.C. The independent dealer should join the SSDA-MI if even for would find myself guessing the answers to so many questions. But this one reason: to protect their industry. with the Association I don’t have to do that, I can simply call and get any questions answered.

Gary Fuller, Executive Committee 12 & Evergreen Shell - Southfield Larry Troy. Treasurer Term Serving: 1/1/94 -12/31/95 M-59 & Crooks Auto Care - Rochester Hills Been in the business: 25 years Term Serving: 1/1/94 -12/31/95 S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? Been in the business: 30 years G.F. It goes back many years, when it seemed that the oil compa­ S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? nies could do whatever they wanted because the independent L.T. I always knew that, as a group, you can accomplish much more dealer didn't have any representation. The SSDA-MI became their than you can on an individual basis. representation. S.Q. If there is one thing you would like to tell non-member dealers, S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member deal­ what would it be? ers, what would it be? L.T. Join the Association, you need it! Believe me, you are foolish if G.F. As independent dealers, it’s impossible to have the individual you don’t. knowledge that the organization offers. The Association is made up of the smartest individuals in this business. You ju st can’t be suc­ cessful in our business today without it

Philip Bucalo, Director to SSD A o f America New 5 Shell Service - Livonia Robert W alter, Executive Committee Been in the business: 35 years Franklin Standard Service - Franklin S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? Term Serving: 1/1/94 - 12/31/95 P.B. Initially it was the membership health benefits. It wasn’t until Been in the business: 28 years about 8 years later that I learned how important the other aspects S.Q. What made you get involved with the Association? of the Association are. R.W. I learned of the importance of the Association through my fa­ S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member dealers, ther, who was a member back when Chuck Shipley was director. what would it be? S.Q. I f there is one thing you would like to tell non-member deal­ P.B. The independent dealer cannot combat the oil companies ers, what would it be? alone. Membership is a nominal fee, with rewards that never end. R.W. You are missing an excellent opportunity to tap into a wealth A recent example of the crucial work the Association does is the of knowledge and information that will help you in the every day preservation of dealer participation in the AET program. running of your station.

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 5 VIEWPOINT By Terry Burns, SSDA-MI Executive Director CELEBRATING 65 YEARS OF SERVICE

s I look back over the Someone could say that worked overtime to as­ 65 years of the Asso­ exact statement this spring! sure that those facili­ A ciation, it is very easy Although, back then, the ties were working and to see the changes that have average price paid by mo­ working properly. occurred in our industry. At torists for gasoline was Extra employees many first glance many changes 16.14 cents per gallon, and times were needed and are obvious: the way loca­ the name of our Association very long hours required tions are designed, the types differed from now, the phi­ by all of the locations to able to constrain myself of gasoline that are sold, and losophy of the independent make sure that customers from putting into words the the methods of dispensing dealer has remained un­ could be served well. These thoughts that are in my and distributing gasoline. changed. Dealers are indi­ two months, alone, have mind at this time. Looking further, I see the in­ viduals that are extremely shown that the high stan­ Regardless of how much creased hours of operation, hard working, dedicated to dards of the independent or how little the Association mounds of regulations, sky the customer, and commit­ dealer have not changed. has accomplished, and I be­ rocketing fixed cost and ever ted to whatever is necessary In looking through these lieve that every intelligent squeezing margins. to make their location the past publications, I wanted dealer knows that this group Much to my surprise, as I best. Thus, the first emblem to get a sense of what mem­ has done more for the dealer browsed through the historic of the Association reads, bers thought of the Associa- and for a cleaner market files of the Retail Gas Deal­ than has ever been done in ers News (the official m aga­ this territory before, but I zine of the Retail Gasoline repeat-regardless of what Dealers Association of has been accomplished by Michigan before SSDA News the Association or due to the and Service Quarterly came Association, I must pay my to be), I discovered that respects and compliments to many of the issues indepen­ the many fine men who have dent dealers were struggling guided this organization, and to the intelligent dealers with years ago, bear a strik­ Established 1929 in this city who have sup­ ing resemblance to the is­ W o r d in g o n t h e em blem , in La t in , m ean s - ported and have contributed sues of today. Issues like “Q ua lity , H o n e s t y , U nited W e S erv e.” so that the continued exis­ the desire for a fair market tence of this organization to compete in, the need to be "Quality, Honesty, United tion in the early years. I has been and is possible. kept informed by someone We Serve.’’ came across a letter written But all of my praise is not other than the oil compa­ Dealers in 1994 have in July of 1940, to the Exec­ for Mr. Peck alone. The offi­ nies, and to be a part of a proven to reflect these same utive Director of the Associa­ cers, the board of directors, group of like minded busi­ qualities. The weather, so tion. The dealer writing the and the dealers who under­ ness people that can call on far this year, has been very letter was selling his station stand and are awake to the one another when questions harsh and the motoring pub­ and retiring from the busi­ many problems which con­ arise. These issues can be lic has not stopped. Loca­ ness, therefore resigning front them also share in my easily found while reading tions with repair facilities from the board. A portion of praise and respect. Without Retail Gasoline Dealers have run wreckers 24 hours that letter follows: this unselfish, hard-working News from over 50 years a day and have gone to great “This letter was intended group there would be no As­ ago. Proving some things lengths to see that their cus­ primarily as a letter of resig­ sociation. never change, a quote from a tomers needs were met. nation, but in severing the Yes, to men like you I doff 1940 issue reads, “This is Those with C-stores have relationships which have my hat. Men who believe in sure to be the year for the had to keep their stocks at been formed by me during tigers. They have every­ optimum levels. Locations the inception of this organi­ C o n t in u e d O n P age 18 thing they need to be great.” with car washes have zation, I find that I am un­

Now serving Michigan Let Us Help You Knowledge Experience Commitment Take Control of Your Environmental Projects Environmental Site even better Assessments Geologic/Hydrogeologic from Oakland County. Investigations Technical Drilling S erv ic es We've expanded and moved Sampling/Analytical our operations to eliminate Remedial System your environmental problems FEA Design. Engineering, more quickly and and Installation efficiently than ever. Give us Environmental a call - we're known for Formulated Environmental Alternatives Compliance/Operations delivering compliance... plus New location: A ud its creative solutions that 10431 Highland Road Underground Storage enhance your business and S uperlor Tank Services property values. And now we While Lake, Michigan 48386 can do it even better. (810) 698-4300 ENVIRONMENTS CORP Call Your Superior Team! Corporate Offices: 1-800-669-0699 The COMPLIANCE PLU S Site Renewal Company 2201 Wolf Lake Road Muskegon 49442 4845

6 SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER. 1994 EDUCATION FINANCE REFORM COMPARISON SHEET FOR MARCH 15, 1994 STATEWIDE SPECIAL ELECTION BALLOT

STATUTORY PLAN BALLOT PLAN Property Tax A state property tax on non-homestead property would be levied at 24 and A state property tax would be levied at 6 mills on Homesteads and 24 at 12 mills on Homesteads (but no assessment cap). mills on Non-homesteads and second homes (assessment cap if 5% or rate of inflation, whichever is less). Income Tax The state income tax would be statutorily increased from the current rate The state income tax would be reduced from the current rate of 4.6% to of 4.6% to 6.0%. 4.4%. Sales/Use Tax The sales and use tax rate would remain at 4%. The sales and use tax rate would increase to 6%. Single Business Tax The SBT rate would be increased by 0.4%, from the current 2.35% to The SBT rate would show no increase. 2.75%. Tobacco Products Tax The cigarette tax would be increased by 15c, to 40c per pack. In addition, The cigarette tax would be increased by 50c per pack. In addition, a tax would be imposed on non-cigarette tobacco products at 16% of the same levy on other tobacco products as statutory plan would apply. wholesale price. Interstate Phone Tax Long distance interstate and international calls and would be subject to a Long distance interstate would be subject to a 6% use tax but not inter­ 4% use tax. national calls. 1-800 and WATS numbers are exempt. Personal Exemption The personal exemption would be increase from $2,100 to $3,000 for gen­ No change. The personal exemption would be remain at $2,100 for gen­ eral taxpayers and from $3,000 to $3,900 for seniors. eral taxpayers and $3,000 for seniors. Homestead/Renter Credit The imputed amount of taxes paid by renters would be raised from 17% to The imputed amount of taxes paid by renters would be raised from 17% 20% of rent paid for purposes of calculating the homestead property tax to 20% of rent paid for purposes of calculating the homestead property credit. This will help to provide some additional relief to renters. tax credit. This will help to provide some additional relief to renters, (same as statutory plan) Real Estate Transfer Tax A .75% state real estate transfer tax would be imposed on the sale of all A .75% state real estate transfer tax would be imposed on the sale of all real property in Michigan. real property in Michigan. Keno No Keno A KENO lottery game would be implemented. High Spending Schools Local school districts may levy extra millage on all property to hold them­ Local school districts may levy millage to hold themselves harmless selves harmless above $6,500/pupil. A law changing this limit would re­ above $6,500/pupil. A law increasing this limit would require a 3/4 vote quire a majority vote of the legislature. of the legislature. Abatements Businesses with existing tax abatements (certificate approved before Jan­ Businesses with existing tax abatements (certificate approved before uary 1, 1994) would pay the new 1994 state and local school taxes or 50% January 1 , 1994) would pay the new 1994 state and local school taxes or of the 1993 school taxes, whichever is less. Local units would not be able 50% of the 1993 school taxes, whichever is less. For new abatem ents, to grant future abatements on state or local school taxes, and other taxing school millage could be abated as under current law. All or one half of units could choose not to have their taxes abated. the state tax can be abated by the state treasurer. Assessment Cap None. Assessment increases limited to lesser of inflation or 5%. TIFA’s Tax Increment Planning Authorities would allow capture of school taxes Tax Increment Planning Authorities would not allow capture of school for existing projects and state reimbursement for any unfunded obligation taxes and would limit state reimbursement for existing obligations. ISD/VOC/SPEC. ISD’s would be allowed to levy their current millage for special education, ISD, vocational and special education millage would be restored but ED/MILLS and the ability of an ISD to levy millage would be restored to law prior to capped at 1993 levels. PA 145 of 1993.

P r o p o s a l A see their revenues in­ Continued From Page 1 crease, might be tempted to support the ballot plan. Why Bring Your ation has announced its op­ And inner city voters, who position to the sales tax in­ should see a large decrease Pollution Problems crease, and it is expected in their property taxes if that the tobacco industry the proposal passes, could To The Surface? will be mounting a cam­ be more likely to support paign against the ballot pro­ the proposal. posal due to the heavy to­ This detailed breakdown Our biological remediation systems can solve your site bacco product tax increase. and comparison of the two contamination problems where they are - in the ground! Many voters are still un­ plans should help you be­ decided. Taxpayers in pros­ come more familiar with perous areas could see a your options. It would be tax increase, as well as, best to know, before you go No Disruption To Your Operations loss of control over their re­ to vote on March 15, which gional schools, as the ballot plan you approve of, be­ plan would push to balance cause there will be little, if out spending of the state’s any, information posted on No Excavation schools. Outstate areas, the statutory back-up plan - No Hauling where schools will possibly at the polls. ♦ • No Soil Disposal

Our engineers and Other elections to be held on scientists can manage March 15th are the State your U.S.T. clean-up from Representative Vacancies in investigation through closure. the following Districts: 32nd District (Grand Rapids) 43rd District (Pontiac) BECKLER CONSULTANTS, INC. 69th District (Lansing) 12200 Farmington Road 110th District Livonia, M l 48150 (Upper Peninsula) (313) 421-6880

A MUSTFA Qualified Consultant

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 7 ENVIRONMENTAL UPDATE

By Brent Morton, SSDA-MI CHANGES IN AET

n recent months, there until a change is triggered enough in southeast Michi­ to vehicle owners when their has been numerous leg­ by the Environmental Pro­ gan to allow the state to ask vehicles fail the AET test. islative activity pertain­ tection Agency (EPA) or a EPA to designate the area in / deterioration in air quality ing to the Automobile Emis­ attainment with the Clean Vehicle Coverage sion Testing (AET) program occurs. Air Act. A response to the B eg in n in g J a n u a r y 1, in southeast Michigan. This The Department of State request is expected before 1994, the oldest vehicle has raised many questions is expected to continue ad­ 1996 and should give the model year required to be regarding what if any ministering the current pro­ state direction on what type tested will be 1985. 1984 changes will occur in the pre­ gram, using the same rules of vehicle emission testing and earlier model year vehi­ sent program. In response to and approved emission test­ program is needed in the fu­ cles will be exempt from this confusion, The Auto Ex­ ing equipment standards ture. If the air quality dete­ AET testing. haust Testing Division of the until January 1, 1996. By riorates significantly prior to Michigan Department of 1996 the administration of that time, an upgraded test­ Proper AET License State created a bulletin out­ the program in southeast ing program may have to be Change of Ownership: lining the changes in the pro­ Michigan will be transferred implemented. Performing AET tests with­ gram and its’ current status. to the Michigan Department out a valid AET testing sta­ Following is a reprint of a of Transportation. The New Repair Cost Limit tion license is illegal. When portion of that bulletin: statute requires the Depart­ Effective January 1, 1994, a change of station owner­ ment of Transportation to the new AET repair cost ship occurs, for example, in­ Status o f AET implement a vehicle emis­ limit is $84. This is the dividual owner to partner­ The AET program will sion testing program which maximum amount a person ship or corporation, the busi­ continue to operate in meets the pre-1990 Clean is required to spend on diag­ ness m ust apply for and re­ Wayne, Oakland and Ma­ Air Act standards. However, nosis and emission-related ceive a new repair facility comb counties. In response the Department of Trans­ repairs to a vehicle that has registration and AET testing to the Clean Air Act Amend­ portation may not have to not been tampered with but station license. Prior to per­ ments of 1990, Michigan re­ implement the program fails an emission test. Test­ forming any tests the new li­ cently passed P.A. 232 of using the pre-1990 stan­ ing stations must write this cense number must be pro­ 1993. The law retains the dards because of steps now new repair cost dollar grammed into the test in­ current vehicle emission being taken by the state. amount in the space pro­ strument. testing program standards In recent years the air vided on the Failed Vehicle u n til J a n u a r y 1, 1996, or quality has improved Instructions that are given C o n t in u e d on pa g e 19 The Oscar W. Larson Co. ALL SUPPLIERS Since 1944 ARE NOT MEMBER CREATED EQUAL The ONLY Company You Need

• 24 HOUR SERVICE • PETRO-TITE TANK TESTING • US UST UNDER FILL TANK TESTING • SALES AND INSTALLATION • TANK CLEANING Compare us against your current • TANKS AND DISPENSERS supplier. We at Eby-Brown would • AIR COMPRESSORS appreciate the opportunity to • CANOPIES prove ourselves to you. We • AUTOMOTIVE LIFTS want to become your chosen • ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS supplier of value-added products • LUBE EQUIPMENT and services. • CARD READERS 390 Multi-Grade - TANK INVENTORY SYSTEMS Dispenser with Outdoor card Processing Terminal Rt. 1 Box 174A Sault Ste Marie, Ml 49783 EBY-BROWN (906) 632-0491 2085 E. Michigan Avenue 6568 Clay Avenue S.W. P.O. Box 2127 Grand Rapids, Ml 49548 (616) 698-0001 10100 Dixie Highway Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197 Clarkston. Ml 48348 1041 Mankowsi Rd (810) 620-0070 Pontiac 1-800-532-9276 Gaylord, Ml 49735 (810) 549-3610 Detroit FAX (313) 487-4316 (517) 732-4190

8 SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER. 1994 NEWS BRIEFS

Diesel Ultimate Vendors tration must be filed with the by three and a half months. separate offices adjacent to The Internal Revenue district director in the district the M aryland office. N ation w id e I/M where the applicant’s books Service has published tem­ C A ... On January 27, New ASE Specialist Sign and records and principal porary regulations on regis­ California Governor Pete The National Institute for trations relating to the tax place of business are located. Wilson signed into a bill that Automotive Service Excel­ on diesel fuel. The regula­ To obtain your district’s phone requires use of remote sens­ lence (ASE) now has avail­ tions require diesel fuel ulti­ number, for further informa­ ing devices developed to de­ able its new Parts Specialist mate vendors to register tion, call: 1-800-829-1040 (in tect the 10% of gross pollut­ signage package. The pack­ with the IRS if they wish to Detroit call 237-0800). ing vehicles that contribute age contains a 24” by 32” claim refunds of the tax on C-Store Scanning to the 90% of the pollution. double-faced metal hanging undyed diesel fuel. Diesel Using point of sale scan­ This legislation establishes sign with the ASE Parts Spe­ fuel ultimate vendors are ning systems in convenience an enhanced decentralized cialist logo and a set of five persons who sell undyed stores will save time and test and repair I/M system decals in three sizes for diesel fuel to a buyer for use money, according to a Na­ in California and came after $35.00. Facilities wishing to on the buyer’s farm for farm­ tional Association of Conve­ Governor Wilson’s refusal to purchase the Parts Specialist ing purposes or to a state or nience Stores study. The knuckle under to EPA sanc­ sign and decals must submit local government for its ex­ study says that stores with tion threats. the name and social security clusive use. Diesel fuel ulti­ scanning systems have seen VA... Virginia is expected number of a certified parts mate vendors need not regis­ to push legislation to adopt a specialist in their employ. ter in order to purchase or radical improvements in For more information sell diesel fuel. Registration price management areas in­ California type system, as is required for the purpose of cluding: cutting back on time their I/M 240 centralized bill about the Parts Specialist filing refund claims only. devoted to price change and has not taken effect. signs or tests, contact: ASE, Diesel fuel producers training, and easier identifi­ NY... New York Gover­ 13505 Dulles Technology (registration category “U” in cation of "dead items” nor Mario Cuomo has writ­ Drive, H erndon, VA 22071, the Instructions for Form ten to EPA seeking alterna­ (703) 713-3800. C-Stores & Food Stamps tives to I/M 240. 637, Application for Regis­ The U.S. Department of Petroleum Facts tration) who are registered NV... Nevada Governor Agriculture initially deter­ Bob Miller is holding out for U.S. petroleum imports as of December 31, 1993, mined th a t about 26,000 C- (crude & products) in Decem­ generally will be considered state flexibility on emission stores no longer qualified to testing. ber were 8,377,000 barrels registered ultimate vendors accept food stam ps and that per day (b/d); imports same until December 31, 1994, un­ J a n u a ry 1, 1994 would be SSDA-AT New Management month in 1992 were 7,838,000 less their registration is re­ the ejection date. But when At a recent meeting of the b/d. Average price for barrel voked by the IRS. Category a similar bill (that would SSDA-AT Board of Directors OPEC crude oil $12.15 “U” registrants need not change the definition of a re­ it was decided that the day- (12/31/94) (DOE). U.S. Deliv­ reapply for registration as a tail food store ensuring th at to-day management of the eries from primary storage of diesel fuel ultimate vendor most traditional C-stores Service Station Dealers of motor gasoline in December at this time. The IRS will would remain eligible for the America and Allied Trades were 7,696,000 b/d; deliveries contact category “U” regis­ program) was held up in the will now be handled by the of motor gasoline same trants regarding their regis­ Senate, the Congress created Greater Washington/Mary­ month in 1992 were tration status. an interim measure extend­ land Service Station and 7,562,000 b/d. ♦ The application for regis­ ing the January 1st deadline Auto Repair Association in

Tire Wholesalers Co., Inc, As our name implies, we are wholesalers of tires. We are an established business, having been in business for over 22 years. We deliver. We have UPS service daily. We guarantee what we sell. • We want your business. We have a huge inventory of Passenger, High Performance, Truck, Trailer, Motorcycle, Carlisle Lawn & Garden, Industrial Tires and Tubes, Shocks, Struts, Custom Mag Wheels and Accessories, all in stock for immediate delivery.

CADILLAC WAREHOUSE NEW! NEW! NEW! NEW! SOUTHFIELD WAREHOUSE 303 Hawthorn Street 19240 West 8 Mile Road Cadillac. Michigan 49601 TROY DISTRIBUTION CENTER 1783 East 14 Mile Road Southfield, Michigan 48075 (616) 775-6666 Troy, Michigan 48083 (313) 354-9910 (313) 589-9910

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 9 PRO-TANK TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 'It is important to us to minimize your risk and liabilities" SERVICES • Complete Service Station Construction • Above/Below Ground Tank Removal • Above/Below Ground Tank Installation • Storage Tank Tightness Testing • Complete Fueling System Design • Leak and Inventory Control Equipment • Compliance Equipment Upgrade (EPA) • Environmental Drilling/Sampling • Monitoring Well Surveying/Sampling • Vapor Extraction System Installation • Carbon Filtration System Installation • Thermal Treatment of Contaminated Soil • Contaminated Soil/Liquid, Removal/Disposal • Drum Sampling/Disposal

WARREN, MICHIGAN UTICA, MICHIGAN 54001 Van Dyke Utica, Michigan 48316 Phone: (313) 781-5700 Fax: (313) 781-7150 EDITORIAL

PORK, When the FRANKINCENSE TEMPERATURE AND MYRRH

hristmas may be over, a reasonable compromise. starts to go but it had already ar­ But the air is far cleaner Crived early this year that is was 25 years ago, for American corn farmers, thanks largely to the cat­ who reaped a bounty under alytic converter. Scrubbing a White House proposal to the last particles of dirt out require ethanol as a gasoline of the air will cost billions additive. The Clean Air Act for very little return. we’ll keep mandates wider use of so- The Clean Air Act only called clean-burning fuels. dictates emission targets, But lacking neither environ­ not the type of fuel required mental nor economic benefit, for compliance. Oil compa­ this latest boon to corn- nies reasonably sought flexi­ your costs based ethanol is simply a bility in formulating new shameless gift of pork. gasoline mixtures. But A rule issued recently by ethanol giant Archer- the Environmental Protec­ Daniles-Midland and legions DOWN tion Agency fulfills the of corn-grower lobbyists ap-

"But ethanol is highly volatile; its quick With a service and evaporation increases smog.” maintenance contract from A & S Unlimited Heating and Cooling

Clean Air Act mandate for parently have succeeded in we’ll keep your air conditioning reformulated gasoline to re­ convincing the administra­ system and your costs duce smog in nine U.S. tion to expand further their cities. (At least 12 other huge federal subsidies that under control. states are expected to re­ already exceed $5 billion a quire its use.) To ensure year. that corn farmers cash in, The administration’s pro­ A & S Unlimited offers maintenance the White House crafted a posal could increase ethanol companion proposal requir­ productions by as much as contracts on any heating and cooling ing that 30 percent of the 60 percent, creating demand system making sure it’s performing and new fuels contain “renew­ for some 250 million more operating efficiently and effectively. able” additives, of which bushels of corn. But the corn ethanol is the primary farmers’ windfall would cost Call A & S Unlimited source. consumers dearly. Higher 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The EPA originally ruled corn demand will raise feed out ethanol requirements grain prices, subsequently Sales, Service, Installation, because the corn derivative raising the cost of port, beef Residential & Commercial. may actually increase smog- and poultry. A USDA study producing chemicals by as has found that a sharp in­ much as 25 percent. Refor­ crease in ethanol production mulated fuels are supposed would cost taxpayers $4 for Putting Customers First to reduce toxic emissions by every $1 of benefit to farm­ for over 25 years increasing levels of oxygen ers. to cause gasoline to burn The American Methanol more completely. But Institute is vowing a legal ethanol is highly volatile; its challenge to the proposal as quick evaporation increases anti-competitive. And the smog. And with only about EPA must first seek public 70 percent of the energy of comment before issuing a gasoline, gas mileage suf­ final rule. fers. A loud “No” from all quar­ Ethanol interests have ters would do nicely. ♦ fought EPA for years to in­ clude a quota for their fuel in the Clean Air Act rules. 1663 E. Auburn Rd., Rochester. MI 48307 President Clinton is ped­ dling a separate proposal as Reprinted from The Detroit News 810-852-5515 • 1-800-367-4455

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 11 LAW TALK

By Mark Cousens, SSDA-MI Legal Counsel

ONCE MORE, WITH FEELING

his article should re­ The dealer has all the disad­ tion or non-renewal of a ally be titled “Prop­ vantages of property owner­ franchise; protected Terty Owners Beware!” ship, but none of the advan­ against a suppliers It deals with two serious tages. Here’s why: withdrawal from the problems pertinent to own­ First, the primary advan­ market. But the LLB de­ ership of property: the lease tage of property ownership stroys that security. rangements do not provide and lease back; the sale with is independence. A dealer Property ownership per­ any tangible benefit for the limitations. retains the right to choose mits a dealer to be confident dealer. They benefit the his or her supplier; to that he or she will have a supplier exclusively. These Lease and Lease Back change suppliers; to use the business even if a supplier agreements should be The lease and lease back property for any lawful pur­ terminates or non-renews avoided. arrangement (let’s call it pose. But the LLB effec­ the franchise. The dealer “LLB” for short) continues to tively cancels that advan­ will retain his station (and Property Restrictions plague dealers despite nu­ tage. The dealer cannot de­ business) even if the sup­ The LLB is bad enough, merous warnings against cide to change suppliers plier leaves. But the LLB but it’s not the only bad deal this disadvantageous ar­ when it makes business destroys this security. Re­ for operators. Another in­ rangement. This arrange­ sense to do so. The supplier call that the dealer has volves the sale of property ment works like this: Dealer may raise its DTW to unac­ leased his property to the with serious restrictions. owns his property. He needs ceptable levels. The sup­ supplier. The dealer occu­ Some suppliers have agreed supply. The supplier agrees plier may provide bad ser­ pies the property courtesy of to sell property to a dealer vice. Too bad. The a lease (and dealer agree­ with massive limitations on dealer is stuck with ment) with the supplier. the dealer’s use of the prop­ the supplier. The Those agreements are pro­ erty. Some examples in­ The lease from the dealer dealer cannot ter­ tected by the Petroleum clude: restricting the use of is often accompanied minate his or her Marketing Practices Act. the property to a service sta­ with many options. agreement with the But they can be terminated tion only; restricting the supplier; the dealer for many reasons. If termi­ brand of gasoline that can be has leased the sta­ nated, the dealer could be sold to that of the seller (for­ tion to the supplier. removed from his own prop­ bidding brand changes); re­ to supply, but with a condi­ Dealer termination of the erty and replaced by another quiring the dealer to give tion. The dealer must lease agreement with the supplier dealer. It is more than just the seller a right of first re­ the property to the supplier, would leave the supplier in theoretically possible for a fusal on any land sale. which, in turn, leases it back possession of the station, but dealer to be removed from These are unreasonable re­ to the dealer. Sometimes the the dealer on the street. his business, and not be able strictions on the dealer’s supplier agrees to pay “rent” This is hardly an acceptable to occupy his own property. right to use property. Let’s to the dealer in the form of result. The LLB destroys In short, the LLB would per­ examine why. improvements to the prop­ dealer independence. mit a dealer to be forced out First, the dealer may well erty; tanks, canopies, repaint Second, another advan­ of his own property, and not want to use the property for and the like. Sometimes the tage of property ownership be able to get it back. purposes other than a ser­ supplier pays cash. is security. The dealer is The LLB is a bad deal for vice station. It might be The lease from the dealer protected against termina­ the dealer. Most such ar­ used for retail; food sales; is often accompanied with C o n t in u e d o n pa g e 18 many options. Thus the base lease may be only one year. But the supplier might have ten options to renew the lease for an addi­ HAWKINS EQUIPMENT COMPANY tional year. The result is that the lease may be as 747 Orchard Lake Ave. Pontiac, Michigan 48341 long as 11 years. But the dealer cannot be certain of the duration. The supplier OVER 50 YEARS SERVING THE OIL INDUSTRY reserves the right to refuse to renew the lease. And • Petroleum Equipment Experts each year the dealer will be uncertain as to whether the • Service Station Maintenance agreement will continue. • Certified Tank Testing “Petro Tite” But wait, it gets worse. • Tank Lining “Glass Armor Epoxy” The lease to the dealer is • Tank Sales Installation and Removal not often a long one. The dealer may be guaranteed • State Required Overfill and Overspill Sold and Installed only three years. This is • Pump Installation Sales and Service much short-er than the • Distributor - Tokheim, Opw, Red Jacket, Gasboy, Emco “ground” lease. This is a bad arrange­ Wheaton, EBW ment. It places the dealer in (313) 335-9285 Pontiac, Michigan the worst possible position. (313) 547-4477 FAX (313) 335-6767

12 SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER. 1994 SAFETY TIPS By Cindy Osterle, Dodson Group

WHO’S MINDING THE STORE?

he U.S. Chamber of ployee theft is believed by policy usually dictates that employee’s motives for want­ Commerce estimates many to be the No. 1 prob­ these occurrences be han­ ing the job,” said Riggs, who that employee theft lem facing retailing today. dled internally. So, no one has a public law enforcement T really knows the scope of the background and specializes and fraud costs American He reported that in recent businesses $10 billion to $20 surveys conducted for the problem. in interviewing. Start with billion a year. The Chamber retail industry, 1,300 par­ However, few doubt who these basics: links about 30% of small ticipating retailers esti­ ultimately pays the price Check references. Eval­ business bankruptcies to un­ mated employee theft to ac­ when an employee or cus­ uate the information, but controlled employee theft count for between 38% and tomer chooses to steal. The also the source, Riggs ad­ and embezzlement, too. 43% of total inventory U.S. Department of Com­ vises. Past employers aren’t Business owners, pro­ shrinkage. merce estimates that the always the best sources. pelled into action by sky­ Although incidences of combination of shoplifting They’re not always sure of rocketing losses, spent an employee pilferage were estimated $52 billion for pri­ lower than those of shoplift­ vate security products and ing, the losses from em­ services in 1988 alone. Ac­ ployee theft were higher “Companies need to portray an attitude cording to Private Security more than $2 million higher. that honesty is important to them. ” Trends, 1970-2000, the $52 How many high-risk individ­ billion spent by the private uals are being hired into sector exceeded federal, these stores and how many state and local law enforce­ dishonest employees are ac­ by customers and pilferage what they can safely say ment expenditures by $22 tually apprehended in a re­ by employees adds as much and what might be consid­ billion that same year! tail store? Because business as 15% to consumer retail ered slanderous. It may be In an article for Discount owners fear negative public­ prices. revealing to ask if the em­ Store News, Jack Hayes, se­ ity, incidences of employee Are employers sending ployee would be considered curity expert for Ernst & theft are rarely reported to the wrong message? Re­ for rehire. Chances are if Young, commented that em­ police agencies. Company search tells us that employ­ the employee made a valu­ ees who perceive punish­ able contribution, the em­ ment or detection as mini­ ployer wouldn’t hesitate to mal or nonexistent will more provide this information. likely be involved in many Conduct personal in­ G as P um p B ooks types of employee theft. te r v ie w s. Obtaining valu­ “When companies put en­ able information in an in­ ergy and effort into reward­ terview can only happen if Tokheim Pump Company ing and motivating employ­ you ask the right questions. Back to the Future ees who are honest, they are The key is to make people sending a positive message,” feel comfortable discussing 1898 to 1993 said Robert Riggs, president different issues and use 8 1/2" by 11" • 85 Full Color photos • Hard Bound • 176 Pages of Ameriguard, Inc., Kansas broad guidelines in formu­ Price is $44.95 U.S. Funds, Canada add $3.00 for postage City, Missouri. His corpora­ lating questions, but always tion offers businesses protec­ adhere to EEO regulations. tive and investigative ser­ Value and reward hon­ 10 Gallons for a Dollar vices and assists them in e s ty . Companies need to screening potential employ­ portray an attitude that hon­ 5 1/2" by 8 1/2" • 216 pages • Black and White • Soft cover ees. esty is important to them. 30 different pump companies • 50 photos showing Gas Stations With losses from em­ Show respect for your em­ Price is $24.95 U.S. Funds, Canada add $2.00 for postage ployee theft reported to be ployees and value their ideas greater than robbery, and suggestions. Let them larceny and shoplifting com­ participate in decisions that Gilbert and Barker bined, business owners are directly affect them. 5 1/2" by 8 1/2" • Soft cover • 264 pages • fighting back. Riggs be­ Explain and enforce 180 Photos • Black and White • Section on Air towers lieves that businesses are p o lic ie s . Let employees Section on gas pump nozzles viewing security and loss- know what your expecta­ Price is $24.95 U.S. Funds, Canada add $2.00 for postage prevention programs as an tions are and what they can important part of business expect from you. Perhaps operations and a cost-effec- initiate an employee hotline tive investment. so employees can report pos­ Bob Lee “No company is immune sible criminal activity 4416 Raymond from employee theft. The anonymously. It sends a reality is it’s inherent in our clear message that internal Dearborn Heights, MI 48125 society and can’t be stopped, theft hurts everybody and (313) 561-5515 but with concentrated effort, will be taken seriously. It’s a company can minimize the important for employers to risk,” Riggs added. Wanted... Gas Pump Literature...Salesman's react. Ignoring the situa­ Your best defense begins tion only escalates the prob­ books related to gasoline pumps... and with pre-employment screen­ lem. Gas Station photographs from 1920's ing and employee training. In November, 1991, Su­ to 1950's, for future books. “When selecting the best ap­ permarket News reported plicant for the job, it’s impor­ that a survey conducted for tant to explore a prospective C o n t in u e d o n pa g e 19

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 13 MONEY REVIEW By Priscilla Lister, Copley News Service MANAGING DEBT BRINGS BETTER SLEEP

ou may not think of all starts with personal ac­ owe no more than 28 percent interest savings. yourself as a debtor. counting. Make a list of of your pre-tax income for Here’s an example pro­ YThose are usually your liabilities your home housing costs, including vided by Coopers & Lybrand: deadbeats who sometimes mortgage, automobile loans, property taxes, and all debts On a 30-year fixed-rate end up in prison. credit card purchases and should not exceed more than $400,000 loan at 8 percent, But chances are good you even insurance and make 36 percent. the monthly payment would are one. If you hold credit another list of your income Mortgage management. be about $2,935; on a 15-year cards, a mortgage on your to show how much of your While you probably have to loan, it would be about home, a loan on your car or cash flow is available to pay list your mortgage debt on $3,822. With the 15-year even a checking account off those debts. your liabilities ledger for loan, overall interest pay­ with overdraft protection, ments would be $368,600 you are a debtor. less than with the 30-year It doesn’t have to be time loan, and after just five to panic. But it might be if SMART MONEY years, equity built up in the you’re deeper in debt than 15-year loan would be about Ownership of credit cards rises with age you should be. $84,900 compared to $19,700 Consider the “Warning The average credit card holder is older and carries for a 30-year mortgage. Signs of Impending Finan­ nine different credit cards. Likewise, making an cial Doom” cited by Mary extra payment each year on Hunt in “The Best of the any term mortgage, which is Cheapskate Monthly” (St. always applied to principal M artin’s Paperbacks): 1. and not interest, you pay You’re not paying bills on substantially less in total in­ time. 2. You’re writing the terest and you pay off the checks but not mailing one loan sooner. or more. 3. Your checking You might also consider account is rarely balanced. refinancing your mortgage 4. You take cash advances to take advantage of lower from credit lines or individu­ interest rates. Refinancing als. 5. You accept additional costs points - essentially fees credit cards. 6. You pay only to the mortgage lender - but the minimum on charge ac­ lower interest rates can counts. 7. You bounce Copley News Service/Jeff Rankin mean lower monthly pay­ checks. 8. You borrow from ments, giving you more family and friends. “You should periodically many years, there are a cou­ spendable cash. If you find yourself some­ evaluate your existing debt ple of ways to reduce its over­ “Your total refinancing where on this list, you could load and the associated all cost: a 15-year mortgage costs should not exceed 3 be headed for financial trou­ terms of these debts,” ad­ as opposed to a 30-year term, percent of your new loan,” ble, but there are ways to vises Coopers & Lybrand in and making an extra prin­ advises Coopers & Lybrand, avoid it. its booklet, “Strategies for cipal payment every year. and you must calculate the And if you don’t find your­ Your Personal Finances.” While a 15-year mortgage cost of the new loan against self on this list, pat yourself The financial services firm requires heftier monthly the length of time you plan on the back for now, but suggests one way to measure payments than one with a to stay in your home. It usu­ make sure you continue to your debt is against stan­ 30-year term, the short-er ally takes at least two years manage your debt well. dards typically used by mort­ life span results in faster eq­ to make refinancing a viable Managing your debt. It gage lenders: You should uity buildup and substantial option. Credit card debt. Many major credit cards, includ­ ing Visa and MasterCard, carry very high interest costs, sometimes as much as 18 percent or more. Take a look at your cards to see how much it costs you to carry balances each month. Visser's These interest costs are no Tank Testing, Inc. longer, as of 1991, tax-de­ ductible. EPA Approved & Certified Will Meet or Beat Written Quotes! You might also shop for lower-interest credit cards. Fast, Friendly Service Days, Nights or Weekends Newspapers and magazines Secondary Containment Line Testing frequently publish lists of bank-card deals. Some major cards are available Call the Best at: for 8 percent to 12 percent interest, and offer lower or no annual fees. Bankcard Holders of America is one 1- 800- 757-7666 resource that makes avail­ or (616)459-8255 able lists of issuers with the Tank & Line Testing is Our Specialty! CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 2

14 SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER. 1994 BUSINESS FOCUS By R.J. Regan, Dean Witter Reynolds Inc. STRATEGY AND OUTLOOK FOR STOCKS IN 1994 A fter a series of fits abroad. It wasn’t until the port competition more diffi­ found in the engineering and and starts, the U.S. late 1980s that these firms cult. It also means better ex­ construction sectors, as well Economy finally began to move back. A port market shares. The as in the electrical equip­ began to exhibit real signs of plunge in the U.S. dollar, as beneficiaries of this trend ment industry. strength during 1993. well as organizational and fi­ can be found in the auto and Stocks hit new heights as in­ nancial restructuring at U.S. auto-parts sectors and in T he R isk vestors, faced with the low­ companies, drove investment technology, such as the com­ With the prospects clearly est interest rates in decades, in industrial plant and puter hardware and soft­ aligned, it helps to put into continued to seek higher re­ equipment up 25%. It had ware companies. perspective the risks as well. turns from the stock market. contracted by more than 8% 3. Restructuring of orga­ Given the potential in 1994 The Dow Jones Industrial in the prior two years. In nizations in other developed for the strongest economic Average hit 3600 in July. addition, wage restraint and nations is accelerating. This growth in a decade, our Dean Witter strategists pro­ stepped-up productivity is spurring demand for pro­ strategists believe that the ject that, in 1994, the Dow caused U.S. manufacturing ductive assets, including risk for stocks is clearly re­ could reach 4050 plus. labor costs to decline. computer software, comput­ lated to an overheating econ­ Today, phase two of the ers, and improved informa­ omy and the implications for Economic Recovery shift is taking place, but this tion “busses,” like telecom­ interest rates. Although it The driving force behind time it is driven by foreign munications systems. does not appear probable, if this year’s stock market ac­ multinational companies. 4. The economies of de­ interest rates were to move tion is likely to be economic The production cost advan­ veloping nations continue to much higher, stock prices in recovery in the United tages in this country are decentralize, driven by the general would likely suffer a States. Led largely by ad­ now too large to ignore. movement toward social setback. The benchmarks to vances in housing, automo­ This shift offers promise for democracies and free-mar- watch for: short-term inter­ biles, and capital spending, U.S. economic growth and ket systems. There is a est rates (1-year U.S. Trea­ the economy could post the brightens the outlook for great need for electric power sury Bills) of 4.25%-4.35% or fastest rate of growth in a U.S. manufacturing as it equipment and basics such higher, and/or a rise in the decade in 1994. As a result, brings in both new capital as nuts, bolts, pumps, 10-year Treasury Note to inflation is apt to move and technology. This, in valves, compressors and 6.25%-plus. Rates at those higher in 1994-not much turn, will help strengthen, switches. Companies posi­ levels could take some of the higher, but consumer prices modernize, and expand our tioned to benefit can be steam out of stocks. ♦ could rise up to 3.50%-3.75%, industrial base. on their way to 4% in 1995. With the prospect of infla­ Opportunities tion comes the likelihood of Despite the gains in the stock market in 1993, econ­ higher interest rates. The Sh a re d $163,604 Federal Funds Rate (the omy-sensitive stocks, as well rate that the Federal Re­ as selected growth stocks, serve charges member banks should post additional gains to borrow) could rise to in 1994 for two reasons. 4.15%-4.50% by year-end First, earnings at most of 1994, up from a recent 3%. these companies continue to The benchmark 10-year U.S. improve. There has been Treasury Note could reach sharp margin improvement in an otherwise slow sales- Endorsed by Service Station Dealers 6.25%, vs. about 6% re­ Association of Michigan since 1962, cently. Dean Witter strate­ growth environment. Sec­ ond, price/earnings multi­ the Dodson Plan gives association gists believe that neither of members the opportunity to earn these moves are substantial ples in these sectors are still dividends each year on their workers' and should not adversely af­ low. P/E multiples for many compensation insurance. fect the stock market. stocks failed to respond as positively as they should Coming to America have to the sharp interest Because SSDAM members are promoting The economic acceleration rate decline in the summer job safety and keeping claim costs low, taking place now is part of of 1993. dividends have been earned every year the expected cyclical ad­ Four Trends to Watch since 1962. vance. However, economic 1. A multiyear business growth is supported by an­ expansion is under way in In fact, more than $750,000 in dividends other important investment the U.S., and should be fol­ has been returned to insured SSDAM trend, which we have la­ lowed by economic expan­ members in the last five years alone! beled “Coming to America.” sion in other developed na­ In increasing numbers, both tions. Investors can partici­ foreign and domestic firms pate by looking for attrac­ You, too, can share in the savings ... are choosing the United tively valued stocks in the Call Dodson today! States as the location of automobile and automobile their production facilities. parts sectors, as well as in This is due to a number of housing and retailing. 1-800-825-3760 fundamental factors, as well 2. American business and Ext. 2990 as the more competitive labor are extremely competi­ value of the dollar versus tive-more so than they have underwritten by foreign currencies. Casualty Reciprocal Exchange been for some time-following member In the mid-1980s, an over­ major restructuring. This valued dollar four years in has resulted in an improve­ DODSON GROUP the making caused virtually ment in product quality and 9201 State Line Rd. every sector of U.S. industry the relative cost of capital in Kansas City, MO 64114 to shift production capacity the U.S., thus making im­

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 15 DATES & DEADLINES

In a job this tough, MARK YOUR you need a credential this good. CALENDARS 1994 Annual Convention

Whether you work on Isn't it tim e you joined sedans, 4x4s, big rigs, the ASE proven pros? & Trade Show rebuild blown engines ASE offers or straighten crashed c ertification tests vehicles, ASE has a twice a year, of the Service Station certification track for you. in May and November, You know you're good. at over 500 locations W hy not prove it? across the nation. Dealers Association

Spring Registration Deadline April 1, 1994 of Michigan will be held A S E C ertification f o r th e A u t o m o t iv e S e r v ic e a n d R epa ir P rofessional August 5 - August 7 Auto/Light Truck Medium/Heavy Truck Engine Repair G asoline Engines Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Diesel Engines Manual Drive Train and Axles Drive Train in Lansing. Suspension a nd Steering Brakes Brakes Suspension and Steering E le ctrical/E lectronic Systems E lectrical Systems Heating and Air Conditioning Engine Performance B o d y /P a in t Look for your Early Bird Alternate Fuels • Painting and Refinishing Non-Structural Analysis & Damage Repair Compressed Natural Gas-Light Vehicles Structural Analysis & Damage Repair Registration forms to arrive in your Engine Machinist Mechanical and Electrical Components mail this month, or call Cylinder Head Specialist Parts Specialist Cylinder Block Specialist Au to m o bile Parts Assembly Specialist Medium/Heavy Truck Paris (800) 748-0060 For information regarding ASE testing, write or call: to register today. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence 13505 Dulles Technology Drive, Herndon, VA 22071 • 703-713-3800

** ATTENTION ATTENTION ATTENTION ** UST OWNERS/OPERATORS, CONSULTANTS, CONTRACTORS

The Michigan Department of State Police, Fire Marshal Division, in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources, Department of Management and Budget, Service Station Dealers Association of Michigan, Michigan Petroleum Association, and the Associated Petroleum Industries of Michigan, w ill be conducting a series of informational seminars throughout the state to explain recent legislative changes to the UST, LUST and MUSTFA programs. Discussion items will include: installer pollution liability insurance, deminimis spills, initial response actions, qualified UST contractor list, MUSTFA co-pay requirements and LUST requirements.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to get the latest information and ask questions of the regulatory agencies charged with administering the Underground Storage Tank Program for the State of Michigan. There is no charge for attendance. Lunch is not provided.

Seminars are 9:30 am — 3:30 pm and will be held at the following locations:

March 30, 1994 Southfield Plaza Hotel, 16400 J.L. Hudson Drive

March 31, 1994 Grand Rapids Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza, 5700 28th Street SE

A pril 12, 1994 Traverse City Park Place Hotel, 300 East State Street

April 14, 1994 Marquette Ramada Inn, 412 W. Washington Street

16 SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER. 1994 SOCIAL SECURITY Q&A

By William M. Acosta, Copley News Service WRITE FOR BENEFIT ESTIMATE Q. I am 50 y e a r s o ld you an additional check for ment, such as wheelchairs, ployee whose services are and would like to know benefits you are due if your hospital beds, walkers and terminated independently of how much I will be re­ original estimate was too other equipment prescribed his/her will, or wishes. The ceiving from Social Secu­ high. If your estimate was by a doctor for home use. payment is usually made rity when I am 62. How too low, and you are over­ Q. I started to receive where the employee had not do I get this information? paid, the money will be Supplemental Security been told in advance that A. Call Social Security’s withheld from your checks Income (SSI) disability the employment would be toll-free number, (800) 772- in the next year. benefits a year ago. I was ended, and is intended to 1213, and ask for a free ben­ Q. My broth er had an recently sent a letter to help a person while they are efit estimate. You’ll receive accident at work last year go into the office for a re­ seeking, or adjusting to, a short form to fill out and and is now receiving So­ determination. Why do I other employment. return by mail. In a few cial Security disability have to go in again? The services for severance weeks, you’ll receive your benefits for himself, his Nothing has changed. pay are considered to have own estimate showing how wife and daughter. Before A. The SSI law requires been rendered in the last much you’ll receive if you re­ his accident, he helped that each recipient’s case be month you worked, unless tire or become disabled. support another daughter periodically reviewed to the services to which the Q. I’v e h e a r d th a t by a woman to whom he make certain that the recipi­ payment relates were per­ some people get Social has never been married. Is ent is still eligible for SSI, formed in a prior period. Security retirement ben­ the second child entitled and that his or her payment Q. I was told that when I efits and continue work­ to some benefits as well? is correct. die my family will receive ing. I’d like to try doing A. Yes. Even though your This review is called a re­ only a one-time Social Se­ this, but I’m afraid the brother wasn’t married to determination. You will be curity payment of $255. rules and paperwork will the second child’s mother, asked to provide information When a cousin of mine lost be too complicated. Is it Social Security pays benefits about income, resources, liv­ her husband, both she and hard to follow the rules? to all of his children, even if ing arrangements and bank her kids got monthly checks. A. W hen you apply for they were born out of wed­ accounts. It is a good idea Have things changed? your retirement benefits, the lock. Each child is entitled for you to keep savings or A. There are two different Social Security representa­ equal benefits. checking account statements Social Security death bene­ tive will explain how your Q. Does Medicare cover because you may need them fits. The $255 payment is a earnings will affect your prostheses and medical for the redetermination. one-time benefit paid to a benefit checks. You will devices? Q. I was recently ter­ widow or widower, if they need to estimate your future A. Yes. Medicare also cov­ minated from my employ­ are eligible. As a matter of earnings and, at the end of ers pacemakers, corrective ment. I was paid “sever­ fact, the average monthly each year, file a report of lenses needed after cataract ance pay.” How does So­ benefits payable to a widow your actual earnings. Your surgery, colostomy or ileo­ cial Security consider or widower with two chil­ benefits will be paid based stomy supplies, breast pros­ this type of payment? I dren in 1993 is $1,288. on your estimated earnings, theses following a mastec­ will be 62 on May 22, Questions may be sent to so your estimate needs to be tomy, and artificial limbs 1993, and plan on filing William M. Acosta, Social as accurate as possible. and eyes. for Social Security. Security office, 880 Front After you report your ac­ Coverage also is provided A. Severance pay is paid St., Room 1-N-8, San Diego, tual earnings, S.S. will send for durable medical equip­ by an employer to an em­ CA 92188. ♦ Questions? One call will give you the answers. Today's petroleum industry is complicated business. Make your job easier by calling Davidson Sales & Maintenance. Not only do we provide the equipment you need, but we provide knowledgeable guidance and service to help you through the red tape. • Sales & installation of tanks and equipment, featuring Gilbarco petroleum equipment • Tank & line testing • Tank removal & disposal • Environmental consultation • Federal compliance assistance We do it all for you! 24 Hour Service

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 17 C e l e b r a t in g 6 5 Y e a r s the support it has rightfully Law T alk plier to buy back the prop­ C o n t in u e d F r o m P a g e 6 earned. C ontinued F rom P age 12 erty for the sale price. The Sincerely, Phil Plasko.” dealer could find a buyer an unselfish cause, the re­ auto repair only. Restric­ willing to buy the land for a sults of which will benefit The need for an Associa­ tions make such alternate substantial profit; be forced the majority. Men who fight tion was met in 1929. uses impossible. to resell the property at no for such a cause, support Today the need of a strong Second, the dealer may profit; watch the supplier such a cause with sweat, Association is still present. want to sell other brands of sell it and capture the profit. time, and money. This is Today, this Association is gasoline when circum­ These deals (lease and the democratic principle. still made up of hardwork­ stances warrant. Property lease back; property restric­ What progress there has ing, unselfish independent ownership should give the tions) have at least one im­ been in this troubled world business people as Mr. dealer the benefit of choos­ portant matter in common: has been due only to the Plasko stated 54 years ago, ing his or her brand, and the dealers approved an men like you who have pre­ but we are not at 100% selling that that is most ad­ agreement without advice. ceded you in history. strength. The need is great vantageous. Restrictions Real property transactions make choice of suppliers un­ are significant business mat­ available. ters. They cannot be under­ Third, the dealer may taken on faith or trust. Sup­ “Every gasoline dealer should realize want to sell the property to pliers get advise; dealers a high bidder. It is many a should too. that ‘in union there is strength ” dealer’s dream to buy prop­ Dealers confronted with an erty and then resell it at opportunity to buy property high profit to a major buyer. should be certain to contact Every gasoline dealer for those dealers that are But one contract between a the Association for advice. should realize that “in union non-members to take action dealer and supplier required O therwise they may “act in there is strength,’ and that and join today. The strides the dealer to allow the sup­ haste, repent at leisure.” ♦ in Detroit there is only ONE that have been made over Association and that One is the years benefit all inde­ the Retail Gasoline Dealers pendent dealers, and all For Sale Association of Michigan, dealers should participate. Auto Repair Facility We have a great history and and the thing to do is to join •C lean, up to date, currently operating Service Center up 100 percent strong. should be pleased as to • 11 bays, 10 lifts, modem sales area with where this Association waiting room & warehouse area I know that you and your • Ample parking and signage brother officers will give a stands today. As members, •Business and equipment for sale good account of yourselves. if you know someone th at is • Building available for purchase or lease • Located in greater Grand Rapids area I sincerely hope that the As­ not part of our Association sociation will be able to con­ tell them why you are a Contact Jim Parrette, Broker, member, and ask them to Real Pro Realty Service tinue its fine work and that 6200 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 the dealers throughout this “Join Today.” ♦ Office: (616) 285-6770, Residence: (616) 453-3914 city will give the Association

SALES • SERVICE • PARTS • INSTALLATION We Are Builders.

MELLEMA’S SERVICE STATION MAINTENANCE, INC. 11644 S. Greenville Rd. Belding, Michigan 48809

616-794-2330 FAX 616-794-2606

©1993 Omega Environmental, Bothell. WA

Hard hats. Worn gloves. We can help you build your Mud on our boots. We are future. One phone call does Parks Omega and have been it all. Ask for your copies of Total Containment/Enviroflex serving our clients for over our free Total Compliance 38 years. Program and TC 110 Leak Prevention brochures. Bennett Gasboy Red Jacket - Service station construction Call 1.313.684.1215. - TC 110 Leak O/C - ZORN - Clawson Tanks Prevention System • UST installation EBW Hoists Emco Wheaton • Remediation • Parts and equipment • Compliance service Parks Omega Certified Tank & Line Testing Tha Total Com pliance Com pany • Low cost financing 4901 McCarthy Drive. Milf o r d , Ml 48361 • Affordable insurance Phone 313 684 1215 Fax 313 684 1929

18 SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 E nvironmental U p d a t e Ensure Proper Testing S a fe t y T ip s C o n t in u e d F r o m P a g e 8 In the first six months of C o n t in u e d F r o m P a g e 13 Approved Emission In­ 1993, testing stations per­ NEW the National Grocers Asso­ spector: Only approved emis­ formed 906,587 initial in­ ciation (NGA) showed em­ sion inspectors are allowed to spections. Of these, 97,741 ployee theft and shoplifting MEMBERS perform emission tests. Un­ vehicles failed. This means on the rise. like the mechanic certifica­ approximately on of every 11 “Theft is especially bad The Service Station Dealers tion program, AET does not vehicles tested failed the now not only because of Association of Michigan have trainee permits. Once a test. If a testing station is the unemployment factor, would like to welcome our person has successfully taken experiencing a vehicle fail­ but because stores are new members. Please be in the state-administered emis­ ure rate significantly less or downsizing staffs,” said contact with us if you have sion inspector test and re­ greater than this, it may in­ Larry A. Miller, president of any questions or concerns. ceived notice of approval, the dicate that tests are being person may legally perform performed improperly. Test­ LAM consulting, Spring- boro, Ohio. LAM conducted David Jenks emission tests. Allowing un­ ing stations owners and/or Jenks Oil Company, Inc. approved persons to perform managers should periodi­ the NGA survey that 230 East Jackson Road showed most companies are AET tests will result in a vio­ cally review test procedures Concord, Michigan 49237 lation being written against with their staff and take not taking corrective action to combat the escalation of Kenneth Prange, Jr. the testing station license and time to personally observe Prange Enterprises, Inc. employee theft. Miller be­ may cause sanctions, including inspectors performing the 44089 Van Dyke license revocation, to occur. emission tests. This will help lieves that smaller firms are Utica, Michigan 48317 susceptible to losses from Employee Change: When ensure testing is being per­ Charles Harrington, Jr. an emission inspector no formed according to proper employee theft because many owners just don’t be­ Amoco Food Mart longer works at a testing procedures and reduce the 14822 LaPlavawie station, the inspector’s iden­ risk of falsely passing or fail­ lieve people can steal while Monroe, Michigan 48161 tification number and name ing vehicles. This extra ef­ they are present in the store and don’t take precau­ Frederick Perayeff must be removed from the fort may prevent sanctions Harper - 16 Oil Corp. test instrum ent. Also, the in­ against your testing station tions. In their survey of hospi­ 37317 Harper spector’s certificate of ap­ license! Mt. Clemens, Michigan 48036 proval should be returned to Southeast Michigan is for­ tals, retail stores and man­ the inspector because it tunate to be able to operate ufacturing plants, re­ C. Jam es Sabo Sabo Investment Partnership must be posted at any new under a decentralized test searchers Richard Hollinger, Ph.D., and John P Clark, 2128 South Dort place of employment. and repair program. With Flint, Michigan 48507-2128 this type of program, it is im ­ Ph.D., found that employee T esting Available perative to ensure that AETs theft is best understood as a Donald Winglemire The emission inspector are done accurately, conve­ function of the overall work Holly Gas Company, Inc. test is given by the AET Di­ 114 N. Saginaw niently, and quickly. environment. Workers who vision office in Southfield Holly, Michigan 48442 If you have any questions had no long-term commit­ three times each month. regarding the AET program, ments to their employers, Michael R. Hamlet You may schedule a test by please contact the SSDA-MI and those who felt dissatis­ Hamlet Amoco contacting the office at (313) office at: (517) 484-4096. * fied or unjustly treated, 802 E. Front Street 354-6678. were most likely to engage Traverse City, Michigan 49684 in employee theft. Charles Hodgson “The most effective ac­ Pay Phones Plus, Inc. tion a business can take is 6001 Adams Road, Ste. 215 to establish a workplace en­ Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 vironment that encourages Jeffrey F. Crawford SSDA honesty as well as the con­ Crawford’s Six & Beech Service Station Dealers Association sequences for being dishon­ Marathon, Inc. est,” said Riggs. 25791 W. 6 Mile The resounding message Redford Twp., Michigan 48240 drawn from research and Glenn Miller gleaned from experts in the Glenn Miller Service Station field of employee deviance 105 N. Main Street and loss prevention is that Sherwood, Michigan 49089 the solution to the problem D av id K u n e of theft in the workplace Towne Center Sunoco SSDA & COMERICA BANK JOINTLY OFFER lies with management and 11901 N. Saginaw the employees’ perception of LOWER MERCHANT Mt. Morris, Michigan 48458 organizational values. Hollinger and Clark dis­ James Murphy VISA & MASTERCARD RATES! Murphy’s Marathon covered that, when employ­ 27430 S. River Road ees feel their overall contri­ Harrison Twp., Michigan 48045 Isn't it time to take advantage of a program that saves you bution is not appreciated money? Comerica Bank has been awarded the Service and they see that manage­ R. VanDenBerg Station Dealers Association merchant program and is proud ment shows little or no con­ Third Base, Inc. to offer SSDA members the following discount rates: 427 E. Main Street cern when theft of company Lowell, Michigan 49331 property occurs, the prob­ lem will escalate. Daniel Putnam 1.90% Electronic Ticket Capture for those with an Putnam Agency Services USA average ticket of $100 and Over. Conversely, when man­ agement - on all levels of an 24899 Hathaway Farmington Hills, MI 48335 2.15% Electronic Ticket Capture for those with an organization is in tune average ticket of $50 and Over. with their employees and Michael Klimezak responsive to their concerns MEK Petroleum/W. Main Shell 2.50% Electronic Ticket Capture for those with an and needs, the upshot may 5171 West Main Street average ticket under $50. be fewer incidences of em­ Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009 3.83% Voice/Electronic Ticket Capture and ployee theft and a more pos­ Allan Montie Voice/Paper. itive and productive work Montie’s Service force. ♦ 886 Munson Traverse City, Michigan 49684 Fahmi Awdish Member FDIC Safety Tips is a service of Heather Enterprise Inc. Call Comerica Bank's Sales Department at 2995 Walton Blvd. Dodson group, SSDA-MI’s Rochester Hills, MI 48309 1-800-932-8765 for more details. endorsed carrier of workers’ compensation insurance. SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 19 SERVICE STATION DEALERS ASSOCIATION OF MICHIGAN, INC. SSDA 200 N. Capitol • Suite 420 • Lansing, Michigan 48933 Non-Member SSDA Member Member Dealer Cost Income Cost Income Savings

$10,000 Tank Bond $950 $325 — $625 SSDA Legal Program 150 — — 150 (1 hr. free legal phone consultation per year)

Annual Convention/Registration 270 239 — 31 Environmental Program 60 0 — 60 (Consultation re UST Regulations/hour)

BCBS Coverage through SSDA 4,800 — 3,600 — 1,200 (compared to private policy)

Service Quarterly Magazine 40 — 0 — 40

Service Monthly Newsletter 60 0 — 60 Tank Manual 99 19 80

Visa/MasterCard Program 4,200 2,400 1,800 ($100,000 in charges per year)

Telephone Program N/A 0 — 1,()()() 1,000 Dodson Rebate N/A 0 — 600 600 (Average Yearly Rebate) IF YOU USE SSDA-MI, WE CAN MAKE/SAVE YOU $5,646

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP I (We), by submitting this application and the payment of scheduled dues, hereby apply for membership in the Service Station Dealers Association of Michigan. Inc.

BUSINESS NAME: __ BUSINESS ADDRESS: CITY:______Ml ZIP: PHONE: ( ). COUNTY: TYPE OF OWNERSHIP: NON-CORPORATE CORPORATION

STANDARD MEMBERSHIP ONLY: TYPE OF GASOLINE SOLD: ______TYPE OF BUSINESS: □ Full Service □ Pumper □ Repair Facility □ Car Wash □ C-Store

ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP ONLY (no gasoline retailed): TYPE OF BUSINESS: □ Auto Parts Dealer □ Tire Dealer□ Car Wash □Radiator Dealer □ Marina □Insta-Lube □ Salvage Dealer □ Other

LIST OWNER/PARTNERS: NAME: ______TITLE: RESIDENCE ADDRESS:___ CITY:______Ml ZIP: PHONE: ( )_

NAME: TITLE:___ RESIDENCE ADDRESS: CITY:______Ml ZIP: PHONE: ( )_

ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DUES: ANNUAL ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP DUES: _$41 monthly (Electronic Banking) _$25 monthly (Electronic Banking) _$480 annual payment ____$250 annual payment Add $120 per station after 4 stations

Date Signature Date Signature ______20 SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER. 1994 S erv ice Q u a r terly O utstanding E m plo y ee C o n test

Employees need to be recog­ nized for the hard work and dedication they offer their employers, and SSDA-MI gives you an easy way to ac­ complish this recognition. All you have to do is be a member, select your em­ ployee, and tell us, in fifty words or less, why your em­ ployee should be the winner of the Service Quarterly Outstanding Employee Contest.

D avid H a r g is W inner o f t h e S e rv ice Q ua rterly The winner will be selected O u tsta n d in g E m plo y ee C o n t e s t from all entries submitted DAVID HARGIS before the deadline of the Chief Auto Technician N am e: David Hargis upcoming publication. (The Colonial Amoco-St. Clair Shores T itle: Chief Auto Technician next deadline is May 15 for C om pany: Colonial Amoco the June 1994 issue.) All Years with the company: 25 + Employer name: George Schuhmacher entries received after the deadline will be considered Here are just a few things Dave’s employer, for the next issue. George Schuhmacher, has to say about him: Winners will be profiled in Service Quarterly “Dave’s work is of the highest quality. He and will receive a certificate for dinner, mer­ produces an exceptional volume of work and chandise or other valuable prizes. is very knowledgeable about how to do the job right the first time. Dave demonstrates So choose, write and send (or fax) in this form good judgement and is a self starter. He has for your outstanding employee and give them a strong desire to learn, reads a lot of techni­ the recognition you’ve been meaning to! cal materials and comes to all of the ad­ Return form to: vanced classes in the area. ” On behalf of the entire membership of the SSDA-MI SSDA-MI, CONGRATULATIONS DAVE, 200 North Capitol, Suite 420 you are Service Quarterly’s Outstanding Lansing, M ichigan 48933 Employee!!!! Or fax it (517) 484-5075 Please Consider My Employee for the Service Quarterly Outstanding Employee, because:

Employee Name:______Title or Job: Years with Company:______Company Name:______Company Address:______

Company Phone: ______Your Name:______

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER. 1994 21 M o n ey R ev iew can, use what you’ve saved for the C o n t in u e d F r o m P a g e 14 down payment. He also recom­ P u b lis h e r mends that you make certain the Terry Burns cheapest fees and rates, (703) 481- loan allows for early payoff with­ SSDA E d ito r 1110; Bank Rate Monitor is an­ out penalty. Service Station Dealers Association Melanie Disa other, (800) 327-7717. Rapid debt reduction. H am ­ If you carry large balances on mond suggests some “Guerrilla Executive Director Terry Burns your credit cards, look at the inter­ Tactics for Rapid Debt Reduction”, Dir. of Communications & Conventions Melanie Disa est rate you’re paying and consider they include: 1. Practice absti­ Member Service Coordinator Krissy Berryman paying off those balances with nence - take those credit cards out Executive Assistant Diane Johnson of your wallet. 2. Maintain records M arketing Representatives George B. Robb sources of savings where you’re Willie Calloway making little interest. Coopers & of your daily expenses to watch Brent Morton Lybrand suggests that even with a your spending patterns. 3. Reduce low-rate credit card at 12 percent, outstanding debts to a minimum O f f i c e r s Ted Beckner Mick Kildea Beckner's Standard Service “You might be earning just 2 per­ pay off those with the lowest bal­ P re sid e n t 2411 28th Street SE cent on a money market fund. In ances as soon as possible, and pay Kildea Kar Kare Grand Rapids, MI 49512 2649 East Grand River (616) 949-0630 such a situation, consider paying off others with additional pay­ East Lansing. MI 48823 Amoco off the credit card debt with ments. (517) 337-9320 Reg B inge Amoco Binge's Ltd. money market funds.” Help is available. A n atio n ­ 36887 Groesbeck Dennis Sidorski Mt. Clemens. MI 48043 And another possibility for wide nonprofit group, Consumer 1st Vice President (313) 792-0430 onerously high credit card charges Credit Counseling Service has J & S Shell 1251 North Maple Joseph J. Grish might be a home equity loan. In­ some 850 centers across the coun­ Ann Arbor. MI 48103 Joe Grish Servicenter Inc. try that help people manage debt. (313) 994-0373 RT. 1. Box A81 terest on home equity loans is still Shell Elmira, MI 49730 (616) 584-3200 deductible. But if you take out a While CCCS often assists those Lou M cAboy loan on your home equity to pay who are deeply in debt, some of its 2nd Vice President D an H a m s o n Big Beaver John R. Shell Harrison's Car Care Center off your consumer debt, be advised steps are worth consideration for 2039 E. Big Beaver 1512 North Eaton that you have incurred another anyone. T hey in clu d e: 1. C u t Troy. MI 48084 Albion, MI 49224 (313) 892-5468 (517) 629-8418 debt on your home. spending. Sounds simple, but it’s Shell Amoco Some firms offer consolidation important. Look for ways to reduce David Cornish Tim Mariner loans a single large loan used to spending in daily lunches, family 3rd Vice President Mariner Petroleum Company Westgate Standard 4257 Clyde Park SW pay off several smaller loans. But gifts or even housing costs. 2. Pay 2625 J a c k so n Grand Rapids, MI 49509 “you can’t borrow your way out of cash for everything; forget the op­ Ann Arbor. MI 48103 (616) 538-7990 (313) 665-8700 Shell debt,” cautions Bob Hammond in tion of credit cards. It might be Larry Troy Keith Souder “Life After Debt” (Career Press). A painful but it might feel better in T re a s u re r Souder's Service Center Inc. the long run. 3. Negotiate more M59 Crooks Auto Sve. 1035 South Mission debt consolidation loan typically re­ 2260 Crooks Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858 lieves you with a lower overall manageable payments. Talk to Rochester Hills. MI 48057 (517) 773-5427 (313) 853-7137 Amoco monthly payment but lasts for a your creditors. Shell Janet Stetz & Jeff Stetz longer time than your original The National Center for Finan­ Philip Bucalo Pu m p & Deli debts. cial Education in San Diego also Director to SSDA-National 3797 W. Michigan Ave. New Five Shell Inc. Jackson, MI 49203 The longer term usually adds up offers some tips for developing 37449 5 Mile Road (517) 784-2778 improved spending techniques, Livonia. MI 48154 Mobil to higher interest costs. (313) 464-3323 “The only exception is if you can which might help you reduce S hell Don Schlitt Old Orchard Shell get the interest on your total bill debt: 1. Write down your poor 6495 Orchard Lake Rd. E x e c u t iv e C o m m it t e e reduced,” says Hammond. “This spending practices and how you West Bloomfield. MI 48033 Norman Fischer (313) 626-1343 will cause the debt to be paid off plan to change them. 2. Set up a Past President Eastland Shell M att L entz more quickly.” spending plan. 3. Review all in­ 1139 N. Belsav Road 1619 H a sle tt Rd. Automobile loans. Loans to surance coverage for duplication Burton. MI 48509 Haslett, MI 48840 (313) 744-2322 (517) 339-0220 buy new cars are now commonly or higher possible deductibles. 4. Shell M arath o n four or five years long. Take the Begin saving all pocket change George Schuhmacher Joseph Nashar everyday or even a dollar a day. Past Vice President 6 & T eleg rap h Shell shortest term loan you can afford. Colonial Standard Srv 16951 Telegraph Shop around for interest rate 5. Use money-saving coupons and 23800 East Jefferson Detroit, MI 48219 wait for sales to shop. 6. Do for St. Clair Shores. MI 48080 (313) 534-5910 choices among lenders. Auto loan (313) 773-7000 Shell Amoco interest cannot be deducted from yourself what you paid others to Tom Onofrey your taxes. do previously. Robert Walter Standard on the Hill Franklin Standard Inc 66 Kercheval Hammond suggests taking the Managing debt has become an 32725 Franklin Road Grosse Pte. Farms, MI 48236 monthly payment you plan to pay everyday concern. Doing it well Franklin MI 48025 (313) 885-4630 (313) 626-2080 Amoco for a new car and put it in your should give you better sleep at Amoco James Little savings account for six months to night. ♦ Eric Evenson H & H Mobil see if you can handle it. If you Evenson Ent. 1500 Haslett Rd. 1490 Ann Arbor Rd East Lansing, MI 48823 Plymouth, MI 48170 (517) 332-6335 (313) 455-2636 Mobil Shell Rich Bratschi Ed W eglarz Lake Lansing Mobil H u n te r & O ak Amoco 2704 Lake Lansing Rd. 905 N Hunter Blvd Lansing, MI 48912 Another Exclusive Benefit from Fort Birmingham. MI 48011 (517) 484-2300 (313) 646-5300 Dearborn Life Insurance to the Amoco Darrell Marx Jerry's Shell Gary Fuller Members of the SSDA-MI 12 & E v erg reen Shell 37500 12 Mile Road 20050 W. 12 M ile Rd. Farmington Hills, MI 48024 Southfield, MI 48075 (313) 553-3166 (3 1 3 ) 358-2087 Shell In a continuing effort to Shell Keith Anderson James Malek Anderson Service Center provide our members with Midtown Shell 2029 S Saginaw quality member services, we 10 Beacon Blvd Midland. Ml 48640 Grand Haven, MI 49417 (517) 832-8895 are pleased to present a group life (616) 842-8677 Shell Shell Dennis Pellicci insuance program. Employees are Derry Middleton Denny's Big Beaver Shell Lakeside Convenience Center 3015 Crooks Rd. eligible for $10,000 of coverage, spouses 13630 Hall Road T roy, Ml 48084 Sterling Heights. Ml 48078 (313) 643-6920 have $2,000 and dependent program is (313) 247-0080 Shell underwritten by Fort Dearborn Life. Pete Doneth D ir e c t o r s Auto City Svc. Ctr Inc. M ark A m brozia k 2290 E a st H ill Road Village Knoll Shell Grand Blanc. Ml 48439 3690 W. Maple (313) 695-4141 For further information call the SSDA-MI Birmingham. Ml 48010 Amoco (313) 540-3383 (517) 484-4096 Shell

22 SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER. 1994 NEW PRODUCTS

AQUASCRUB NEWEN VACU CHECK COATS® RIM CLAMP® TIRE CHANGER The Usher Oil Com­ The Vacu check is pany introduces Aqua- COATS proudly intro­ ompact vacuum- ® Scrub" a new genera­ duces the Model 5030 Rim tester. The Vacu check tion parts washer that C la m p Tire changer, an has a vacuum pump ® uses an ultra-effective, affordable way to expand working with com­ water-based cleaning wheel service capabilities pressed air. It features formula that amazingly without sacrificing qual­ two non-return flap outcleans petroleum - ity, dependability or ease- valves which enables based solvent fluids. of-use. its user to monitor the Grease, oil and The COATS 5030A extent of the leak once grime form a bond with Rim clamp Tire Changer the vacuum is created. auto part surfaces. But is the ideal solution for It can be used to check the airtightness of AquaScrub’s unique cleaning formula breaks full-service shops who valves in cylinderheads, brake circuits, water that bond, then enacapsulates the grease, oil cooling circuits, pneumaticc circuits, air condi­ need to meet the growing demand for precision, and carbon particles so they can’t form a bond alloy wheel service. American-made, the 5030A tioning circuits, ... on a surface elsewhere. Even more amazing is has a solid, robust construction that is designed The Vacu check is the only vacuum tester the fact that the more the special AquaScrub to withstand the demands of more rigid, lower available on the m arket that can actually detect fluid is used, the more powerfully it cleans! profile tires. small leaks. It is also the only device available And unlike petroleum-based parts wash­ The Model 5030A Rim Clamp Tire Changer that allows its user to evaluate the extent of a ers, the AquaScrub formula is completely non- delivers the COATS quality and dependability leak, by monitoring how fast the needle is re­ carcinogenic, non-toxic and odor-free. So it’s that industry professionals have come to expect turning to zero. user- and environmentally-safe. For a free for over forty years. For more information contact: NEWEN AquaScrub demonstration in your own work­ For more information contact Ron Newton INC., 3732 West Century Blvd. Unit 1 Ingle­ place, or for more inform ation, call 1-800- or Will Higgins, Hennessy Industries, Phone: wood, CA 90303-U.S.A., Phone: (310) 673-6900 USHER 30, or write: Usher Oil Company, (615) 641-7533. 28411 Northwestern Highway, Suite 910, Southfield, MI 48034.

NEW DISK/KV IGNITION PROBE STRONGARM® ELECTRIC WINCHES GATES NEW, SMALL ID COOLANT HOSES Dutton-Lainson Com­ pany’s versatile Stron- Gates has intro­ gArm electric winches are duced a line of OEM- highly adaptable to many equivalent, small di­ load-moving applications am eter coolant hoses in automotive, marine, that reduce inven­ and industrial fields. Four tory, while increas­ ing afterm arket cov­ Snap-on Tools Corporation announced the 12-volt DC models and four 120-volt AC models availability of the New MT2700 DIS/kV Igni­ (Canadian AC models are CSA Certified) are erage for installers. tion Probe. For the first time, there’s an easy available, plus a complete line of accessories for With just 325 sizes, the new line provides way to measure peak kilovolt (kV) firing volt­ customizing and installing the winches to han­ coverage for up to 1,200 part num ber applica­ age on either direct (distributorless) ignition dle specific application requirements. tions found on millions of cars and light systems (DIS) or conventional distributor sys­ StrongArm winches provide load-moving tru c k s. tems in a m atter of seconds. The DIS/kV “muscle” inexpensively and easily with just The trim-to-fit hoses, up to 1-in. ID, fea­ Probe also can be used to quickly test coil po­ the push of a button or switch. With rated ture multiple bends, multiple planes, dual larity in distributor-type systems or to check load capacities up to 4,500 lbs. (dead-weight ID’s; lengths, up to eight feet and convoluted spark plug condition in all systems. As a con­ lift) double-line operation, and rolling load sleeve protectors as required. venient hand-held tool, the DIS/kV Probe of­ capacities up to 30,000 lbs., depending on Gates OE-style, small diameter hoses are fers simple hookup, safety (no need to discon­ model and operating conditions, these built with a premium quality EPDM tube and nect wires), speed (no adapters or harnesses), winches can save manpower, speed-up work cover to assure long service life. Tempera­ and low cost (suggested catalog price is and easily handle difficult loading and ture range is -400F to +2570F. $174.00). pulling jobs. Additional information on Gates new line Snap-on Tools Corporation is a leading StrongArm electric winches are available of small diameter coolant hoses is available distributor of cost-effective automotive diag­ at most hardware, automotive, farm supply from The Gates Rubber Co., Mail Drop 31-1- nostic tools and high-efficiency wheel balanc­ and marine stores from Dutton-Lainson Com­ 1-A6, P.O. Box 5887, Denver, CO 80217. Call ing and alignment systems. pany, P.O. Box 729, Hastings, NE 68902-0729. toll free 1-800-788-BELT.

OIL WATER SEPARATOR

RGF Environmen­ STP ANNOUNCES tal Systems, Inc. has announced the devel­ RECALL opment of a unique oil water separator for in-ground or Danbury, CT - Jan. 27 - The STP brand above ground instal­ today announced that it is voluntarily with­ lations. The RGF- drawing its STP Flat Tire Repair Product OWS is completely fabricated from PVC, with from the market. This product was also mar­ all double thermo-welded joints, which means keted as STP Flat Fixer. Automotive Prod­ no rust, corrosion or maintenance. The 6 com­ partment separator forces the water to change ucts Marketing Vice President Mark direction over 10 times before treatm ent is Haglund said that the company is immedi­ completed. Two automatic oil skimmers con­ ately recalling the product because “recent tinuously remove the oil from two separate developments have led us to believe that compartments and deposits it in a built-in under certain circumstances the product has waste oil compartment for easy removal. Four built-in surface mounted clean out connections the potential to cause serious personal injury provide easy surface access for clean out and to those who attempt to make a permanent monitoring. The combination of incline tube repair on an inflated tire with STP Flat Tire Repair in it.” This type of hazard coalescing and a microcoalescing incline ma­ also exists with any other tire inflator products, but may not be well known to trix makes the system extremely efficient. persons repairing tires. For more information contact: RGF Envi­ Consumers should call 800-277-3766 to receive a full-value refund and for in­ ronmental Systems, Inc., 3875 Fiscal Ct., West Palm Beach, Florida 33404 (1-800-842-7771). structions about disposal of the product. To obtain a refund, consumers will be asked to provide certain information from the product can.

SERVICE QUARTERLY 1ST QUARTER, 1994 23 LAWRENCE A. WRIGHT, INC. With over 25 years of experience in the automotive service industry, our direct specialty in accounting and consulting for the service station dealer makes us unique in this market area.

As your consulting "partner", we can assist you with:

Monthly Financial Statements Counseling for Profit Business Valuations for Buy/Sell Planning Payroll Checkwriting Computerized Accounting Systems Business and Personal Income Taxes

We serve the service community statewide!

Call today to set up your appointment for a free initial review. Be sure to mention this ad!

28277 Dequindre Madison Heights, MI 48071-3016

Phone: (313) 547-3141 Fax: (313) 547-3223

SERVICE QUARTERLY BULK RATE 200 N. Capitol • Suite 420 U S POSTAGE Lansing. Michigan 48933 PAID Lansmg. Ml Permit 771