March 2021 March 2 | Naaa on the Block | March 2021 in This Issue on the Block Magazine Vol

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THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE NATIONAL AUTO AUCTION ASSOCIATION AUCTION AUTO NATIONAL THE OF MAGAZINE OFFICIAL THE MARCH 2021 MARCH 2 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com IN THIS ISSUE ON THE BLOCK MAGAZINE VOL. 8 NO. 2

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President’s Message President Picard congratulates auction members celebrating milestone anniversaries. THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE 04 NATIONAL AUTO AUCTION ASSOCIATION Association News Read how the NAAA Diversity and Inclusion Pledge encourages an environment 05 where all employess are valuable team members.

Celebrating Auction Milestone Anniversaries Special stories and business history shared by NAAA auction members. 06 read us online Auction News www.naaa.com • www.niada.com Louisiana’s 1st Choice Auto Auction recognized for first-class customer service. Click on ads to link directly to their websites. 21 A new next generation at Dyer Auto Auction. previous issues

Member Notes 22 Common kindness is our strength.

January 2021 November 2020

September 2020 July 2020

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www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 3 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Here’s to You!

Every year an auto auction remains open for business is something to celebrate. Those marking milestone anniversaries in 2021 during the COVID economy deserve a special toast to their continued success through the decades. The time-spanning achievement of those auctions is a testament to their dedication, hard work, and willingness to adapt to an ever-evolving business environment. They serve as an example to us all of resiliency, strength, and vision and the value of effective management and quality staff working as a unified team to provide first-class customer service. Of course, another key element to the longevity of any relationship, both professionally and personally, is good communication. For me, the opportunity to connect with our members, sharing information and listening to feedback, has been a favorite facet of serving on NAAA’s executive team. That’s why as president, it was my privilege to kick off the new year in January with the first of our president calls. Since the pandemic has restricted personally touring our member auctions around the country, we’re using video conferencing to connect. In our inaugural virtual visit, President-Elect Charles Nichols and I had a chance to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Lub- Julie Picard bock Auto Auction and the 55th anniversary of Manheim Lakeland. We also chatted with their NAAA President general managers, Charles Furr and Dave Rathjens, respectively, about how they overcame the challenges of 2020 and what they see in the crystal ball for the year ahead. It’s my honor to congratulate all those who have attained significant anniversaries in the lives of their auctions this year and to affirm NAAA’s commitment to the ongoing success of our entire membership. I’m proud to say that enhancing our communication ability to exchange information, from upgrading our headquarters technology to launching the free twice-weekly NAAA SmartBrief e-newsletter, is just part of the many benefits and services NAAA provides to support the enrich- ment and advancement of every member’s business. So mark your calendar and get ready to raise a glass to your next anniversary. Congratulations!

4 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com ASSOCIATION NEWS Take NAAA’s Diversity & Inclusion Pledge and Let Your Employees Know You Value Everyone as a Team Member

Teamwork has always been a fundamental part of the National Auto “The display of cooperation and willingness to include everyone in a team Auction Association’s character since its founding in 1948, most recently effort this past year to assist their colleagues and the industry during the demonstrated by the members coming together to meet the challenges COVID-19 health crisis inspired NAAA President Julie Picard to make of a global pandemic. To recognize that inherent quality and further diversity and inclusion, along with wellness, a priority on her agenda, the commitment to the core values of a welcoming, collaborative, and so we developed the Pledge as part of that initiative,” said NAAA Chief respectful auction team environment, NAAA has created a “Diversity & Operating Officer Tricia Heon. Inclusion Pledge.” Heon noted that ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace is not only beneficial All members are encouraged to take the pledge as a public declaration for your staff; it can also be a good thing for your auction’s success. of their dedication to promoting a workplace atmosphere that makes She added that studies have found other benefits include higher revenue everyone, regardless of who they are or what they do for the business, feel growth, greater readiness to innovate, increased ability to recruit a diverse involved and supported in all areas of the company. talent pool, and better employee retention. To achieve this goal, the pledge asks members to undertake seven actions: “Research shows companies that foster diversity and inclusion among their Take Responsibility as Leaders, Cultivate a Culture of Inclusivity, Provide workforce earn deeper trust and allegiance from their employees,” Heon said. Ongoing Training and Personal Development, Share Best Practices, Support “Customers also notice and appreciate such a positive, inviting atmosphere Accessible Technology, Be Caring and Compassionate Community Members, that can gain and strengthen their loyalty.” and Combat Unconscious Bias. Members can find the details of these actions and register their vow by going to NAAA.com and clicking the “Diversity & Inclusion Pledge” link on the homepage.

www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 5 CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES Manheim Lakeland Imperial in June of 1992, then one year later 55 YEARS Submitted by Dave Rathjens transferred to Manheim Lakeland as a Dealer General Manager Services Coordinator. He has worked in various roles and is currently our Specialty Manager. Describe a memory of your first sale What Gary likes most about the auction is there Q: day at Manheim Lakeland. What is something new every day, not the same was that day like, and how does monotonous job. He also spoke of the relationships it compare to sale days at the he has developed through the years with his auction now? co-workers, team members, and our clients. ANSWER If you could describe your auction’s It was an exciting day in January 1966 when atmosphere and environment, how what was then known as “Lakeland Auto Q: would you do so? Auction” opened its doors for our first sale. We offered 550 vehicles in 3 lanes. The very ANSWER first car sold was a 1963 Oldsmobile 98 for When you walk through our doors, or we speak $1,354.00. Manheim Auctions purchased with you on the phone, you will always get that Lakeland Auto Auction in 1969. welcome home warmth and friendly feeling. Throughout the years, what continues to stay Always treating you like you want to be treated, the same is the buyers and sellers we bring to- whether you are an internal or external client. gether each week with every sale. We still have Especially in a year like we have had, it was so important for us to connect with our clients live auctioneers calling bids in the lanes. We Why do you feel your auction has did not have computers at first, and everything and our team members. been successful for 55 years? was sold only on paper. Now we have comput- Q: Whether we are celebrating clients’ or team ers, and we are paperless. You can now buy ANSWER members’ birthdays or dressing up for one of online and never leave your office. Our block The auto auction industry is a relationship business. the holidays, or having a decorating contest clerks work remotely in another office or from We have built some strong relationships throughout with our departments, we want it to be fun! home. We offer vehicles driven through several the years, and many of them still lanes; however, some vehicles are only sold Community involvement is also very import- exist today. through a digital platform. ant to Manheim Lakeland. We have supported We have several different products we offer in several of our local charities (Florida Baptists What is something that sets Manheim inventory, and we have buyers and sellers that Children’s Home, Paint Your Heart Out, bake Lakeland apart? come from all around the world to conduct sale for local Veterans Outreach, Kids Pack, Q: business with us every week. If you are looking and others) with 50/50 raffles, bake sales, and ANSWER for inoperable units, we have them every week other donations. Our culture and how you feel as a client at at 1:00 pm. Our regular sale then follows at our location. No matter if you buy or sell 1-5 2:00 pm and from 8:30 am auctioning 300 RVs Explain your favorite memory you have vehicles or 10-20, we treat you the same. Every and at 9:30 am we run 50-100 boats. And on working at Manheim Lakeland. client is treated like they are the most import- the third Wednesday of the month, we offer 120 Manheim Lakeland has developed great ant client while providing them with the best RVs and a few boats at 10:00 am. leaders throughout our 55 years. And when service. We go out of our way to meet their we celebrated our 50th Anniversary, we had a needs and resolve anything that comes up. Our Which employee has worked at Man- huge 50th style celebration with our décor, our people are also a very dedicated family-orient- Q: heim Lakeland the longest, and what is outfits, and music. We had several past general ed group, as always working together as a team their position? What is it about the managers and leaders that came back for the and supporting each other. Especially through auction specifically they admire? event. We recognized them all with a plaque. the pandemic, we worked closer, helped each It was a great day at Manheim Lakeland. ANSWER other out, and really learned how to lean on We look forward to 55 more exciting years! each other and build strength and trust. Gary Mann started in maintenance at Manheim

6 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES Manheim Statesville 45 YEARS Submitted by Jason Albright, Assistant General Manager

Describe the memory of your first sale What is something Q: day at Manheim Statesville. What was Q: that sets Manheim that day like, and how does it compare Statesville apart? to sale days at the auction now? ANSWER ANSWER Manheim Statesville has always My first sale day at Manheim Statesville was one of been a place for the dealer. We operate on the to me. They have helped me out a lot; they all the most exciting and frightening moments of my principle that we are family and our client’s had a big hand in me staying here and enjoying career. It occurred during my second interview for business is our business. We want our clients to my job. a job in the Human Resources department. I was have an outstanding experience with every trans- in a suit and tie, and as soon as I walked into the action and interaction. Our passion for customer If you could describe your auction’s sale arena, I knew I wasn’t in Kansas any longer. service and our ability to partner with our clients :atmosphere and environment, how I didn’t click my heels, and I certainly didn’t want to meet their goals is undoubtedly the dividing Q would you do so? to go home, but I had no clue what was going on. line between Manheim Statesville and any other In fact, for the first few minutes I was in the lanes, auctions. ANSWER I was motionless due to fear of accidentally buying Manheim Statesville has a playful, light, and a car. Excitement and energy were everywhere I Why do you feel your auction has welcoming environment filled with people looked. I may not have understood what was going : been successful for 45 years? passionate about what they do every day. on, but I wanted to be a part of it. As I compare Q today’s auction experience to when I first began, ANSWER Explain your favorite memory you have there are still many similarities; clients, vehicles, Our dedication to the client experience has driven working at Manheim Statesville. auctioneers, and plenty of sale day energy. The our success from inception until today. Taking care It is challenging to narrow my favorite memory differences, notwithstanding how our world of the client will always be our top priority. down to one, but our community outreach changed in 2020, are rooted in the areas of adventures are always at the top of my list technology, speed, and variety. Our employees without question. One memory that stands out and clients access the sale and sale inventory Which employee has worked at Manheim Statesville the longest, and is fundraising for the Iredell County Special through an amazing interconnected web of Q: Olympics. We have our departments create what is their position? What is it about systems. Because of our many advancements, Valentine Baskets, and then we have a silent the auction specifically they admire? sometimes our sale day comes and goes, and it auction. The baskets are always creative, and is hard to believe it is over. Lastly, with the many ANSWER our team is very competitive, but it is not the channels to access inventory, sale day does not fundraising that stands out in retrospect. My always feel like the weekly event but rather one Charles Mourey, Maintenance (33 years). Charles says that the auction has been a good mind and heart are filled with joy when I event in a chain of 24/7 buying and selling remember the athletes coming to visit our auction opportunities. Nonetheless, sixteen years later, place to work. He appreciates the benefits, pay, and people. “All the people I have worked for to express their gratitude and share their sto- and with hundreds of auction days under my ries. These individuals are truly amazing, and belt, I still love this amazing environment. have all been good to work with,” Charles said. “The management team has always been nice we are blessed to be a part of their journey.

www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 7 CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES ADESA Lansing 45 YEARS Submitted by Todd Sowards Assistant General Manager

What anniversary is your auction Q: celebrating? ANSWER We’re celebrating 45 Years at ADESA Lansing.

Describe the memory of your first sale : day at ADESA Lansing. What was that Q day like, and how does it compare to sale days at the auction now? If you could describe your auction’s ANSWER Q:atmosphere and environment, how I have been with the Lansing location now for just would you do so? over six years, but I have been in the industry for ANSWER over 20 years. The first sale I attended was memo- rable because the one thing that stood out was the I would say we have a “Disney-like” atmosphere atmosphere and excitement of buying and selling where we interact with customers by their first vehicles. The auction today is a little different; name and always with a smile! we’re selling and buying units digitally but still have the overall excitement of a sale day. Explain your favorite memory you have small location, but when you call a customer working at ADESA Lansing. What is something that sets by their first name and are able to bring sellers I really enjoy our charity-driven sales when we : ADESA Lansing apart? and buyers together for a truly one-of-a-kind raise funds for a variety of charities throughout Q auction experience, it’s something special. the year. Seeing our customers and employees ANSWER giving back to our communities is amazing. Our superior customer service. Customers often Which employee has worked at ADESA share their frustration from the lack of customer Q: Lansing the longest, and what is their Is there anything else you’d like to service they receive at our competitors’ auctions. position? What is it about the auction Q: share or highlight about your auction? We make it a point to eliminate these frustrations specifically they admire? for them by exemplifying what the true definition ANSWER of customer service is. ANSWER Whether you’re a lifelong or new customer Sandy Fountain started with us in April 1998. She doing business with ADESA Lansing, we have Why do you feel your auction has started as a Block Clerk then moved to Dealer the ability to handle all your auction needs : been successful for 45 years? Registration before becoming our Office Manager. from start to finish. The entire team truly works Q Sandy has proclaimed that she loves working as one, taking advantage of over 35 years of ANSWER here, feels like it is her second family, and could auction experience! In one word, it would be “TEAM.” We may be a not imagine working anywhere else.

8 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES Manheim California 45 YEARS Submitted by Martha Flores, Assistant General Manager

Describe the memory of your first sale day at Manheim California. ANSWER Q: What was that day like, and how does it compare to sale days Manheim California, is lucky to have 23 employees with over 15 years at the auction now? of employment. Of those 23 employees, 17 have worked at Manheim for more than 20 years. Even more impressive is that we have five employees ANSWER with over 30 years of tenure. Anthony Smith, a representative from our The first day, I arrived home when I entered the doors of Manheim California, maintenance department, is the reigning king with nearly 37 years with back in 2017. This is the fourth Manheim location I have had the privilege Manheim California. of working at in my 22-year tenure, but this one was different. I felt like a Tony enjoys working at the auction for a few reasons; he has worked with part of the family the minute I arrived, which is not easy in any workplace. many good people throughout the years who provided him with a sense What made it so welcoming was the team. As the Assistant General Manager of family. As a member of the Maintenance Team, Tony enjoys his job and overseeing operations, I had the opportunity on that initial day to meet sees how he makes a difference and helps the auction operate smoothly with members of the operations team. They told stories regarding how they every week. According to Tony, he feels blessed to be part of the Manheim interact and stay connected with clients and each other on a regular basis. organization. They not only take pride in their work responsibilities; they care about each andCELEBRATING every person who MILESTONE walks into the facility. AUCTION This was ANNIVERSARIES and still is a great Bea Parikh has been with Manheim California for almost 36 years. As a member attribute that not every location has. That initial memory has remained with of the Titles Department, Bea enjoys working at Manheim California, as it has me, and I still see it from our employees striving to stay connected with the become like a second home to her. According to Bea, “every employee is kind, same “family” feel, especially during these difficult times. and my team is like family, which makes my job enjoyable!”

What is something that sets Manheim California apart? If you could describe your auction’s atmosphere and : :environment, how would you do so? Q Q ANSWER ANSWER Many aspects of Manheim California sets it apart from others; however, the Manheim California is located on a 32-acre facility with a well-designed success stems from the personal sense of pride from the employees to our layout, allowing for easy viewing of our inventory offerings. Business clients. In 45 years, the historical relationship with dealers runs deep, transcending simplicity has translated to an advantageous customer experience. For three generations. Through driven determination and effectiveness of the staff, example, in the last few years, our location has processed over 115,000 it allows for the auction to continue to be successful. units a year, selling approximately 79,000 each year. Located in Anaheim, Calif., we are surrounded by all major freeways for easy access, and the Q: Why do you feel your auction has been successful for 45 years? coastal weather allows for great weather all year round. Explain your favorite memory you have working at Manheim California. ANSWER Success is measured by our client’s success. Manheim California has excelled Within my first month at Manheim California, we hosted our annual Vet- at matching client needs with our unparalleled customer service. If it were not eran’s Day celebration with a breakfast for Veteran employees. During this for our extraordinary employees – the heartbeat of the organization – then we event, I interacted with these respected members of our staff, heard their would not be able to meet our clients’ needs. combat stories, and saw photos of them in uniform. The primary goal of the celebration was to provide gratitude for their service. Ultimately, they Which employee has worked at Manheim California the provided a better understanding of their underlying passion and drive to longest, and what is their position? What is it about the auction motivate others to be successful. The event provided an acknowledgment : to this team and their peers building on this culture together. Q specifically they admire?

www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 9 CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES ADESA Cincinnati/Dayton 35 YEARS Submitted by Michael Long, General Manager Which employee has worked at ADESA Cincinnati/Dayton the :longest, and what is their position? What is it about the auction Q specifically they admire? ANSWER Jessie Sorrell is our most tenured employee here at this auction. Jessie started with us back in March 1997 and has been with us now for 27 years. She has worked in the Accounting Department has been our Office Manager and is now leading the charge in our Collections. Her knowledge and experience have come through and saved the day on more than one occasion, especially during last year as we tackled COVID-19. She’s been able to assist in so many ways because of her experience and is an invaluable member of the team

If you could describe your auction’s atmosphere and Q:environment, how would you do so? What anniversary is the auction celebrating? ANSWER Q: The atmosphere here brings a level of stress, but at the same time, there’s also a sense of accomplishment that makes it rewarding. Every week ANSWER brings the same challenges and triumphs. Sure, the challenges vary from The first sale here at ADESA Cincinnati/Dayton was held on March 7, 1986. week to week if you look closely, but at a high level, we head toward the This year we’ll be celebrating 35 years! same goal each and every week. It’s simply a matter of trying to get all cars through the process and out on their sale spots in time for previewing Describe the memory of your first sale day at ADESA by our buyers and sellers. That overall goal each week presents a variety Q: Cincinnati/Dayton. What was that day like, and how of challenges, but the great thing about this business is that each week, does it compare to sale days at the auction now? once it’s all set and ready, and sale day arrives, we all get a renewed sense of accomplishment once again. I believe that is what makes this an industry ANSWER that is hard to ever want to leave. My first sale was on December 9, 2003. I recall being in amazement watching what was then eight lanes of auctioneers calling off bids all at the same Explain your favorite memory you have working at time with such a big crowd in the lanes. Our I.T. Manager gave me a tour, ADESA Cincinnati/Dayton. and while I was pointing at something, an auctioneer called on me as if I There are always new challenges that present themselves as we try to meet our was a bidder. I am still careful not to raise my hand or point at something goals each week when setting up a sale. The one issue that can elevate and out in the lanes today while bids are being called off because of this memory. compound challenges to a new level is a snowstorm. I can remember on more than one occasion being out on the lot when thousands of cars all turn white What is something that sets ADESA Cincinnati/Dayton and become covered with a couple inches of snow. The snow mountains that Q: apart ? get created when trying to push snow and clear lot space are always a sight ANSWER to behold. When these winter storms hit, it We strive to deliver the best customer service in the business as we’re always creates what we refer thinking, “every car, every customer, every time, every day.” We also have an to here at this auction amazing mix of vehicles offered and a great location right here in the heart as an “all hands on of it all. deck” scenario where everyone simply has Why do you feel your auction has been successful to put on some boots : for 35 years? and get out there to Q help make it happen. ANSWER Watching an entire I think a combination of things makes us successful. One of which is team of individuals our staff, who strive to serve both our buyers and sellers in the fairest that includes members possible way. Another is our product mix and what we offer each week. from the lot crew, de- We have a good mix of cars that meet the needs of any buyer looking for tail shop, front office, inventory. Being in such a central location in the Midwest is also a plus. fleet/lease, specialty, etc., all coming together to help make sure the show goes on is a memory I will take with me forever.

10 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES ADESA Memphis 35 YEARS Submitted by Ron Schritenthal General Manager What anniversary is your auction Q: celebrating? ANSWER We’re celebrating 35 Years at ADESA Memphis.

Describe the memory of your first sale : day at ADESA Memphis. What was Q that day like, and how does it compare to sale days at the auction now? ANSWER

My first day was July 29, 2009. I had moved to Memphis from Kansas City and had previously worked at ADESA Kansas City, which at the time was a larger auction running more cars each week. So, it was definitely a different atmosphere in Memphis with different challenges and opportunities. In the 11 years I have been here, we’ve built our sale up to almost match Kansas City’s volume. Now we have gone to a purely digital sale. We do allow dealers to preview cars and bid in the lane, but not a single vehicle drives across the block. With us going primarily to a Simulcast sale, you realize how many customers are bidding on and buying vehicles from markets significantly outside yours. We have customers bidding on and buying cars from 26 states on Why do you feel your auction has been ANSWER a weekly basis. It has really changed how we Q: successful for 35 years? Georgie Sayles is our longest-term employee at inspect vehicles, think about our customers, ADESA Memphis. She is our Commercial ANSWER and do business in general. Accounts Lot Assistant and has been here for Our level of customer service and our ability to almost 23 years. Georgie loves working outside What is something that sets get the best inventory for our buyers. and the accounts she handles. : ADESA Memphis apart? Q Which employee has worked at ADESA If you could describe your auction’s ANSWER : Memphis the longest, and what is their Q: atmosphere and environment, how would Our level of customer service is very high – we try Q position? What is it about the auction you do so? to go the extra mile for every customer. specifically they admire? ANSWER We have a very team-oriented environment where everyone contributes in multiple ways. With COVID-19 and the effects that came with it, everyone has had to pitch in and get outside their comfort zone learning new responsibilities.

Explain your favorite memory you have working at ADESA Memphis. There are so many good memories here, but I would say my favorite was our 33rd anniversary sale in 2019. We had around 1,200 units and probably one of our best sales ever. Our customers had a great time at the sale, and our team felt like they really accomplished something special that day.

www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 11 CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES Greensboro Auto Auction 35 YEARS Submitted by Dean Green, Owner/President What made our Auction successful from the first day was that I had an agree- The Clinic, along with all of our other 500,000 SF of buildings, had the iWave ment with Ford Motor Company. On opening day, we had a consignment of installed on the HVAC systems, killing 99.4% of the Coronavirus. During the 300 vehicles, 75 of them from Ford Motor Credit. We wrote a computer pro- pandemic, the Clinic has been testing for COVID-19, and we have operated all gram for check-in, sales, and accounting while the facilities were being built. our companies (1,200 employees) with almost no issues. I think our biggest concern was if it would work or not; it worked great! I think having large sales facilities (including internet sales), recon facilities, In the 1960s, 70’s, and 80’s, I had owned and operated a dealership for 17 transportation trucks, two railroad unloading ramps on the property, with years, so I was able to use several of my employees to start the Auction. We over 250 acres of parking, enabled us to sell 3,000 to 4,000 vehicles in a had experienced and dedicated employees from the beginning who under- day before the pandemic. Our employees, facilities, and service have been stood the business of giving great service. Many of those employees still work responsible for our 35 years of success. Dealers say coming to our Auction is for the Auction today. My secretary has worked for me for 48 years. Many of like a big family event. our employees have been with the Auction 25-35 years. Most of our managers have been trained at our Auction and promoted over the years. We have a very My favorite memory and worst memory was the same event. Eddie Johnson, low turnover of employees. To keep employees, we have been very aggressive our General Manager, was diagnosed with Lung Cancer and given 2-3 weeks with benefits. We have our own Medical Clinic with a doctor and nurses, to live. His last request was to have a big party at the end of the sale on which is located on our property. Employees and their families can go to the Wednesday and invite everyone. It was a great party with lots of friends. Clinic free of charge. Their prescriptions are free of charge also, which can be picked up at the Clinic.

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12 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES

business for decades. She sees Manheim Denver many of these clients as ex- 35 YEARS Submitted by Ray Priest General Manager tended families to her own and has seen many dealers over the Describe the memory of your first sale years become very successful Q: day at Manheim Denver. What was business owners. There is no that day like, and how does it compare other job at the auction she to sale days at the auction now? would rather do because she truly feels that in the job, she has ANSWER the greatest impact on the clients. The auction lanes were packed with trucks, trucks, and more trucks from the front of the building to If you could describe your auction’s the end, with all manufacturers represented. Cow- Q:atmosphere and environment, how would boy hats and boots could be seen throughout the you do so? building and the lanes. As I walked through the ANSWER lanes at Manheim Denver, I got a true feeling of the west with dealers greeting me with a smile and Manheim Denver has a unique atmosphere a handshake. And as I walked outside the auction that is not only welcoming, but everyone arena, I could see the snow-capped Rocky Mountains walking in can feel a personal connection with from the lanes. Pikes Peak in the distance was anyone they encounter—from Security to the truly amazing. Dealers said it would remain windy Why has the auction been successful technicians in the mechanic shop. The location in Colorado until the snow melts from the top of Q: for 35 years? appreciates every client, regardless of how big that mountain. I experienced a feeling of family or how small the business owner’s portfolio ANSWER and friendship—from the amazing team on the is in the industry. Employees enjoy coming to ground to the dealers conducting business. With over Four things have made Manheim Denver a successful work and, in many cases, are expanding their 1,000 dealers at the auction and an equal number location for the last 35 years. The employees personal continued education to get promoted on Simulcast, it was Colorado’s version of Wall Street. at Manheim Denver are not only dedicated to and advance in the organization. Often, the Manheim, with several tenured employees on-site, team works very hard, but they also have fun Today, with Manheim’s investment in technology but they truly care about the clients as part of their along the way. Extending personal outreach and innovation, more clients are gaining business extended families. Without our clients, Manheim into our community both monetarily as well as efficiencies—reducing both time and expense—by Denver would not be around. Our clients want by actions as a community servant. Providing purchasing cars on digital platforms like Simulcast, Manheim Denver to exist, and they want us to be socks for the homeless, dinners for families at Manheim.com, OVE, and Manheim Express. successful in helping them grow their businesses the Ronald McDonald House, supporting breast While business is still strong and growing in the and provide the vehicles needed for their clients. cancer efforts as well as the local and state Colorado marketplace, it is truly different than Manheim Denver has outstanding relationships law enforcement agencies are just a few of the just three years ago. And with COVID-19, it will be with its local vendors, and many of those vendors many things the team does for our commu- even more different in the future than it is today. are the same clients who buy cars from our location. nity. Manheim Denver is not just a business One thing I can say that remains the same is the Partnering with these vendors fuels their ability but a community partner and environmental resilience of the auction team, our clients, and to grow and create innovative solutions. The last sustainability advocate. We are dedicated to the automotive space in general. The automotive foundational pillar is Cox Automotive, which creating opportunities for those behind us and industry has never faced a challenge that has not provides the tools and resources for the location to making things in front of us better than they met a resolution at an extremely rapid rate. The both grow and stay competitive in an ever-changing were before. word “NO” in the industry means we must find industry. The company drives storefront solutions Explain your favorite memory you have another way to operate. and innovative advancements from technology, logistics, software, and physical infrastructure. working at Manheim Denver. What is something that sets There are so many memories and emails I :Manheim Denver apart? Which employee has worked at Manheim have received about the great things the team Q Q: Denver the longest, and what is their has done for our clients during the time I have ANSWER position? What is it about the auction been at Manheim Denver, but I would say the Manheim Denver stands out in the marketplace specifically they admire? fondest moment is now. With everything going on in the industry and the world today, we are as an east-to-west transfer point for many clients. ANSWER Buyers and sellers visit from greater distances than doing courageous things to keep both our cli- most locations, as it offers the ability to conduct Kelly Lancaster has been with Manheim for 27 ents and our employees safe while we continue business as well as enjoy a long weekend skiing years in the Dealer Registration Department. operating in the marketplace. We are acting in Aspen or Vail. Manheim Denver is fortunate to She loves the fast-paced environment and the now and making bold decisions that will drive be surrounded by such a majestic backdrop, and fact that she feels she makes a difference in the the future of our industry through nimbleness it provides amazing memories for dealers who dealer’s ability to buy and sell cars. She enjoys and exemplary, innovative execution. conduct business here. Manheim Denver is one of getting the new dealers set up and creating the strongest markets due to both its geographical relationships with the ones who have been in location and strong economic infrastructure. Home of the Denver Broncos, it is the Mile-High City.

www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 13 CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES ADESA Dallas 30 YEARS Submitted by Eric Jenkins, General Manager

: What anniversary is the auction celebrating? Q have always been there to support her and stand beside her through good ANSWER times and bad. I think one of the great things about our industry is that it We’re celebrating 30 Years – 25 of them as ADESA Dallas. does become more than just a place to work. If you could describe your auction’s atmosphere and environ- Describe the memory of your first sale day at ADESA Dallas. ment, how would you do so? Q: What was that day like, and how does it compare to sale days Q: at the auction now? ANSWER ANSWER COVID-19 prompted some distinct changes over the last several months. The world was turned upside down, but we’ve adapted and learned how to I started my career at the auction while I was finishing college, and I take care of our customers in different ways. We’re constantly evaluating never knew an auction like that existed before I got the job. The excite- and innovating so we can stay on top of what our customers need. It’s ment of a car being sold in less than a minute was incredible. There were challenging but exciting as well. so many people crowded into the arena on sale day. At first, it was like going to the circus. It was quite an experience. Explain your favorite memory you have working at ADESA Dallas.

What is something that sets ADESA Dallas apart? There are many wonderful memories. We have several folks with over Q: 20 years of service at the auction. They all say their favorite memories are the post-sale parties that they used to have back in the 90s. It’s really ANSWER hard to choose just one, though. We get to have a lot of fun every day, We strive to deliver excellent customer service, and that has always been a top and it makes the hard work that much more enjoyable. priority. Is there anything else you’d like to share or highlight about Q: Why do you feel your auction has been successful for 30 years? Q: your auction? ANSWER ANSWER I would just like to say thank you to all of the people who make our Again, it comes down to service. We have a diverse group of customers auction successful day in and day out. We have an incredible group of who all have different wants and needs. We try hard to make everyone employees and customers, and we’re very fortunate to have the privilege feel like they’re more than just another customer and that they’re valued to do what we do. and appreciated.

Which employee has worked at ADESA Dallas the longest, and what Q:is their position? What is it about the auction specifically they admire? ANSWER

Our Credit Manager Jill Cox, who just retired in December, was our longest- tenured employee at 30 years. She has regularly said that this is her second family. Both her coworkers and the friends that she’s developed over the years

14 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES ADESA Jacksonville 25 YEARS Submitted by Andrew Clauss, General Manager

What anniversary is the Q: auction celebrating? ANSWER With our grand opening on March 28, 1996, 2021 will make it 25 years for ADESA Jacksonville.

Describe the memory of your first sale : day at ADESA Jacksonville. What was Q that day like, and how does it compare to sale days at the auction now? ANSWER The week of Thanksgiving 2006. It was cold and rainy with temperatures in the 40s; it certainly didn’t feel like Florida. That being said, the auction had excitement in the lanes, a positive atmosphere, and it felt like home. Though our Which employee has worked at ADESA Explain your favorite memory you have Jacksonville the longest, and what is business continues to grow and evolve, the Q: working at ADESA Jacksonville. excitement and fun atmosphere remain today. their position? What is it about the auc- There’s really too many to list here. There are tion specifically they admire? so many memories with customers and staff, What is something that sets ADESA ANSWER watching their business grow, their families : Jacksonville apart? grow, and the younger generation getting Q One of our Block Clerks, Loretta Flook, started with ANSWER involved in the business. To be a part of the us in October 1996. changes in our industry and how we have Our large facility that offers full service and our evolved is special. can-do attitude. If you could describe your auction’s Is there anything else you’d like to Why do you feel your auction has been Q: atmosphere and environment, how share or highlight about your auction? would you do so? Q: : successful for 25 years? Q ANSWER ANSWER ANSWER Our auction is friendly, warm, and positive. Our experienced staff, large full-service facility, The experience of our staff sets us apart and is and amazing location make doing business a main reason for our success. easy for our customers.

www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 15 CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES Dealers Auto Auction of Chattanooga 25 YEARS Submitted by Doug Rodriguez, General Manager

In fairness, I took didn’t have networked computer systems, and won “Best Auto Auction to Work For” from over DAA Chatta- most everything was handwritten. It was a lot Auto Remarketing, and 2017 and 2019 won nooga in February more work. Bills of sales and titles were all Auction of the Year for our region from ARI Fleet. 2017, so I am handwritten, paper runners would run paper- Mike Schmucker is our Director of Operations. coming up on four work to the auction blocks and bring sold bills of Mike has held many positions during the years. To give you sales back to the office. It was a different world. years he has worked at Chattanooga, including a better idea of several ownership changes. what the auction Today the industry is very automated. Technology and online platforms are a standard part of business was like, My greatest memory of DAA Chattanooga is the business. I would have to go watching how we have grown over the last back to my first day Dealers Auto Auction of Chattanooga has gone several years. Chattanooga is back on the map at Greater Lansing through a huge change over the last several as one of the largest independent auto auctions Doug Rodriguez Auto Auction, 1987. years. We have been most proud of the culture in the country. The business was we have built. I believe in employee develop- very different. We ment. The growth of any company starts with its employees. In 2017-2018 DAA Chattanooga

16 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES America’s Auto Auction-West Michigan 25 YEARS Submitted by Sarah Ruzicka, General Manager

ANSWER ANSWER Describe the memory of your first sale Q: day at AAA West Michigan. What was Customer service and follow through. Customer Lisa Kukulies in Human Resources. She loves that day like, and how does it compare service will always be our #1. We come together the people she works with and the company she to sale days at the auction now? and overcome all obstacles together as a team. works for.

ANSWER Why has the auction been successful If you could describe your auction’s The first sale for me was very exciting. All Q: for 25 years? :atmosphere and environment, how the employees, ringmen, and auctioneers are Q would you do so? extremely energetic and charismatic. It is ANSWER ANSWER overwhelming walking into any auction, but we Customer service and a family-oriented atmo- have strived to go above and beyond making sphere sets us apart, along with the customers At West Michigan we are fast paced, action the dealers experience different. that we have worked with over the years. They driven and always cheerful. make coming to the auction easy. What is something that sets AAA West Explain your favorite memory you have : Michigan apart? Which employee has worked at AAA working at AAA West Michigan. Q : West Michigan the longest, and what Q is their position? What is it about the In 2016, we were NAAA Auction of the Year. By auction specifically they admire? far the best memory for all of us. The acknowl- edgement for all the employees was the greatest experience for us all.

www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 17 CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES Central Maine Auto Auction 25 YEARS Submitted by Catherine Davis-Tilton, Vice President

In 1996, when Central Maine Auto Auction held its first-ever auction with enough to detect where cars were parked on the lot. Probably a smart only 50+ cars in two lanes, our auctioneers and staff had experience selling move, considering cars don’t look that good after being bumped and livestock but had little knowledge of the auto industry. With every intention pushed around by a loader. of succeeding, we paid attention to the market, built facilities we were proud of, hired people with good hearts, and went to work. We quickly realized that Maine’s motto, “The Way Life Should Be,” is a standard in our personal serving the same customers every week fostered an environment that thrived and professional lives. Our auction still has the ability to do business on a on mutual respect and relationships. Those professional acquaintances soon handshake. Our dealers are so honest most self-check gate passes. Others became friends, then quickly evolved to family. Together, we weathered the call for the code to our gates when they need access after hours. Sellers market and learned as we went. Today, we boast four generations of auction- have complete trust in our arbitrator. They get a check even before the eers, with two facilities and pre COVID auctions that consign as many as arbitration is complete. No seller has ever declined to return a check after 600 units a week. Recently, our daughter, Emily, and her fiancé, Oliver, the unit failed arbitration. All of them roam the facility as if it were theirs, and it really is. We wouldn’t exist without them. joined our company, bringing new energy to our already comfortable, small family business. Our auction does business “the way it should be done,” and we’ll continue We attribute much of our success to until something changes or we lose that inherent trust in our friends, our staff, which consists mostly of which we don’t see happening in our lifetime. old friends, family, and a few strays. Many have been with us for many years, but no one longer than Renee Haining. Renee has been with us from the beginning, and we can’t imagine an auction without her, as she is professional, kind, hardworking, and the dearest friend. Sometimes Renee presents herself as the consummate office professional, but mostly she has the office rolling with laughter and our dealers holding their sides and shaking Renee Haining their heads. She genuinely loves all of them, as they do her. A favorite auction memory is a blizzard in 2015 that stopped Maine’s great State in her tracks. Plow trucks were buried in the middle of Interstate 95, power lines were down statewide, businesses were shut- tered, and we were under a literal blanket of white. We arrived at our auction facility, hoping to hike into the building and fire up the loader. Instead, we lunged ahead two feet at a time, through eight-foot snow- drifts, only to be pushed back and redirected when we happened upon Kevin Tilton, President, has been an auto Auctioneer since high school, then owned an unforeseen car. Defeated, we traveled home and left the cleanup his own auction with his father at 30 years old in 1996. for the following day, when the warmth from the sun settled the snow

18 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES ADESA East Tennessee 25 YEARS Submitted by Jeff McLeod, General Manager

What anniversary is your Q: auction celebrating? ANSWER It’s our 25th-year anniversary at ADESA East Tennessee.

Describe the memory of your first sale Why do you feel your auction has If you could describe your auction’s Q:day at ADESA East Tennesse. What Q:been successful for 25 years? Q:atmosphere and environment, how was that day like, and how does it would you do so? ANSWER compare to sale days at the auction now? ANSWER ANSWER The continuity of a stable crew that dealers have always had a great relationship with and Being a smaller auction, the attention we’re I remember my adrenalin was high. I knew knew they could count on. able to show our customers gives our auction when I walked in that it was a great place to be a warm and fuzzy feeling. and I could tell it was a place I wanted to be. Which employee has worked at ADESA Explain your favorite memory you have What is something that sets ADESA :East Tennessee the longest, and what Q is their position? What is it about the :working at ADESA East Tennessee. Q:East Tennessee apart? Q auction specifically they admire? ANSWER ANSWER ANSWER The countless company outings with the The exemplary service we offer to all of Kristina Compton, our F/L Administrator, and employee’s families present. our customers. Cindy Thornburg, our Title Administrator.

They both have such great relationships with our dealers.

www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 19 CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES

Anniversary Anniversaries Anniversaries YEARS 75 35 YEARS 25 YEARS Lubbock Auto Auction, Lubbock, TX ADESA Cincinnati/Dayton Central Maine Auto Auction Franklin, OH Hermon, ME ADESA Memphis, Memphis, TN Dealers Auto Auction of Chattanooga Anniversary Chattanooga, TN 65 YEARS All Valley Dealer Auction, Manheim St. Pete, Clearwater, FL North Hollywood, CA Southeastern Auto Auction Augusta Auto Auction of Savannah, Savannah, GA North Augusta, SC Anniversary 55 YEARS Clarksville Auto Auction Anniversaries

Clarksville, TN YEARS Manheim Lakeland, Lakeland, FL 20 Greensboro Auto Auction ADESA Nashville, Old Hickory, TN Greensboro, NC ADESA Reno, Reno, NV Anniversaries Indianapolis Car Exchange 50 YEARS ADESA Tulsa, Tulsa, OK Whitestown, IN ADESA Mercer, Mercer, PA America’s Auto Auction-Birmingham Manheim Denver, Aurora, CO ADESA Vancouver, Richmond, BC, Canada Moody, AL Manheim Texas Hobby Manheim Northstar Minnesota America’s Auto Auction-Pensacola Houston, TX Shakopee, MN Pensacola, FL CAR-Tech Auction, Matawan, NJ Anniversaries Charleston Auto Auction Anniversaries 30 YEARS Moncks Corner, SC 45 YEARS ADESA Dallas, Hutchins, TX ADESA Lansing, Dimondale, MI ADESA Northwest, Eugene, OR Greater Kalamazoo Auto Auction Schoolcraft, MI ADESA Orlando, Sanford, FL Manheim California, Anaheim, CA Dealers Choice Auto Auction, Mediapolis, IA Manheim Statesville, Statesville, NC Lake Charles Auto Auction Orlando Auto Auction, Orlando, FL Lake Charles, LA Paducah Auto Auction, Paducah, KY Anniversaries Ray’s Southern Auto Auction 40 YEARS Greensboro, NC America’s Auto Auction-Harrisburg Mechanicsburg, PA America’s Auto Auction-Pittsburgh Anniversaries Washington, PA 25 YEARS Dixie Auto Auction, Grenada, MS ADESA East Tennessee, Fall Branch, TN Manheim New England ADESA Jacksonville, Jacksonville, FL Laura Taylor North Dighton, MA America’s Auto Auction-Chicago Charleston Auto Auction General Manager Manheim Southern California Crestwood, IL Fontana, CA America’s Auto Auction-Virginia Dealers Auto Auction of Idaho Virginia Beach, VA Norwalk Auto Auction, Norwalk, CA Nampa, ID America’s Auto Auction-West Michigan State Line Auto Auction, Waverly, NY (Continued on page 21) Wayland, MI

20 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | MARCH 2021 www.naaa.com CELEBRATING MILESTONE AUCTION ANNIVERSARIES (Continued celebration from page 20) Anniversaries Anniversaries Anniversaries YEARS YEARS 20 YEARS 15 10 Dealers Auto Auction of Memphis ADESA Sarasota, Bradenton, FL Alliance Auto Auction of Longview Memphis, TN America’s Auto Auction- Longview, TX Greater Tyler Auto Auction, Tyler, TX Bowling Green, Bowling Green, KY Alpine Auto Auction of Gaylord Manheim Halifax Central Auto Auction, Hamden, CT Gaylord, MI Lower Sackvillle, NS, Canada Manheim Fort Myers, Ft. Myers, FL Auto Auction of Montgomery Pike Road, AL Manheim Hawaii Richmond Auto Auction Honolulu, HI Richmond, VA Dealers Auto Auction of Mobile Mobile, AL Mt. Vernon I-64 Auto Auction Vemo Auto Auctions-Gainesville Woodlawn, IL Alachua, FL East Idaho Auto Auction, Blackfoot, ID Texas Lone Star Auto Auction–Austin El Paso Independent Auto Auction Austin, TX El Paso, TX OKI Auto Auction, Cincinnati, OH

AUCTION NEWS Louisiana’s 1st Choice Auto Auction Receives the 2020 United Auto Credit Auction of the Year Award Louisiana’s 1st Choice Auto Auction is the proud recipient of the 2020 United and those across our industry that came together to share ideas for business Auto Credit Auction of the Year Award. Louisiana’s 1st Choice Auto Auction continuity. I am blessed to have a dedicated team that strives for excellence.” has a reputation for its first-class customer service and motto, “Outstanding United Auto Credit partnered with Louisiana’s 1st Choice in 2017 and has lane service begins with outstanding people.” Fleet/Lease Manager Mike McCollum placement monthly in 6F. Auction Manager Matt Alombro said, “I would like reflected on the past year and what it means to win this award. “This year to thank UAC for recognizing our hard work and look forward to continued has proven to be a major challenge and undertaking for everyone. Despite mutual success.” all of the downfalls of 2020, I am humbled by our team members’ resilience Torch Passes to Next Generation at Dyer Auto Auction One of the longest-running auctions in the country has announced the “As a third-generation auction owner, the auction business runs deep in my opening of a new greenfield site in conjunction with a transition in family veins, as it has my father’s, and I am looking forward to an exciting new ownership, as longtime auction owner and industry veteran Buzz Cotton chapter for all of us,” said Jason. “I couldn’t have had a better leader and passes the torch to his son, Jason Cotton. Opened in 1947 and in its Indiana teacher than my dad as I’ve learned about the industry and about the value location since 1977, Dyer Auction held the first sale in its new facility in of the personal relationships and the benefits that an independently-owned Gary, Indiana on November 18. In conjunction with the move, owner Buzz auction can offer.” Cotton announced that his son, Jason, would succeed him as owner and auction president as he retires from the business. Also, a key element in the family transition is the appointment of Josh Boender, Buzz Cotton’s stepson, as the auction’s General Manager. Boender “It is with a great deal of pride and confidence that I announce that Dyer steps into the role following the passing in October of longtime Dyer Auto Auction will transition to the next generation of family ownership,” General Manager Mike Dean. Buzz Cotton said. “Jason is devoted to this business and to our customers, and I know that the future holds great promise for the auction with him at “Josh brings broad experience and skill to his new role as General Manag- the helm.” er,” said Jason Cotton. “Following a long tenure focusing on remarketing technology with Auto Lookout, Josh graduated from the Auction Academy Jason has worked alongside his father as Dyer’s fleet/lease manager since program and joined us at Dyer Auto Auction working with our customers in 2005. He has been deeply involved in the buildout of the auction’s new fa- the fleet/lease department. He has big shoes to fill in following Mike Dean, cility, and oversaw the seamless three-week move leading up to the premier who had been such a vital and beloved member of Dyer Auto Auction’s sale in November. The new auction will hold its official grand opening in leadership for over 25 years, but I know he’ll honor Mike’s legacy in his new January and will be renamed Chicagoland Independent Auction. post. I’m thrilled that Josh is joining me on the auction’s executive team as we move into a new and exciting chapter,” said Jason.

www.naaa.com MARCH 2021 | NAAA ON THE BLOCK | 21 MEMBER NOTES

Kindness is Our Strength Longevity is one of the most remarkable aspects of It’s different from retail where you’ll see someone our industry. Cars last a long time and have many once every few years when they need a car or lives, from their first owner to their fifth owner maybe when they have a big mechanical issue to down to being sold for parts and scrap. Auctions complain about. With our industry, professionals have been around for a long time. Evolving and work together for years. Mark Phillips changing. But the land stays around, auctions as a Auction Edge, Inc. Sure, technology plays a bigger role than ever Vice President, way of selling stay around and there’s a buyer and Product Delivery seller on every deal. The people stay around. these days. Some of the people powering the industry are behind computer monitors writing Whether the familiar chant of the auctioneer the software that helps do these jobs, helps make every week or the people they’re selling to or markets, and helps put deals together. But it’s still selling for, putting deals together. With the the same people, many who have been around power of the ring women and ring men, and the for decades. easy, steady machinery of the people behind the or self-sacrifice needed. It’s the common kindness auction. Registration, title, sales, finance, man- With all this longevity, what sticks around the most of saying hello to each other. Saying thank you agement. The same people, week in and week is not the deal you got, or didn’t get, on that last car. and please. Knowing that we’re all in the industry out. Sometimes coming together for special event It’s not the way the arbitration fell, in your favor and trying our best. That we may be different and sales. Usually just traveling the same circuit. or otherwise. It’s not the pictures missing on the have different jobs and different backgrounds, but Working with each other. Powering the industry. vehicle online. What sticks around the most is the we’re all in it together and want to enjoy keeping way we make each other feel. It’s the kindness we it that way. Kindness is our strength. And it’s what show each other. Not extraordinary acts. No heroics makes this industry so great.