My Guest is Kristine Malkoski - Vice President and General Manager Craftsman Tools.

Visit the Craftsman Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/craftsman

Since 2009, Malkoski has served as Vice President/General Manger, Craftsman and is the first woman to lead a male-dominated brand in the tools category. In this role, Malkoski develops and manages financial and operating plans for the Craftsman brand. This year, she is leading the introduction of over 100 new tool innovations — over triple of any prior year to date. With her supervision, The Craftsman Club membership has grown by fifty percent. She also expanded the availability of Craftsman tools to consumers by forming partnerships with ACE Hardware, Costco and W.W. Grainger to carry the brand (first time Craftsman has been sold nationally outside of Sears).My Guest Kristine Malkoski - Vice President and General Manager Craftsman Tools.

Since 2009, Malkoski has served as Vice President/General Manger, Craftsman and is the first woman to lead a male-dominated brand in the tools category. In this role, Malkoski develops and manages financial and operating plans for the Craftsman brand. This year, she is leading the introduction of over 100 new tool innovations — over triple of any prior year to date. With her supervision, The Craftsman Club membership has grown by fifty percent. She also expanded the availability of Craftsman tools to consumers by forming partnerships with ACE Hardware, Costco and W.W. Grainger to carry the brand (first time Craftsman has been sold nationally outside of Sears).

Malkoski started her career in marketing at an advertising agency in Lincoln, Nebraska where she also attended the University of Nebraska and graduated summa cum laude.

Malkoski lives in Burr Ridge, IL with her husband Tom, CEO of Penford Corporation, and three children, Kaelyn, Mark and John.

Malkoski started her career in marketing at an advertising agency in Lincoln, Nebraska where she also attended the University of Nebraska and graduated summa cum laude.

Malkoski lives in Burr Ridge, IL with her husband Tom, CEO of Penford Corporation, and three children, Kaelyn, Mark and John.

Visit the Craftsman Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/craftsman

Lizelle Landino - PCG Digital Marketing - Dealer Advocate

Experience: I have been very blessed to have spent the last 11 years in the automotive industry. I was one of those lucky people who fell into this industry by chance and being a single mom really motivated and fueled my drive financially as well as women and the desire to create my career path successfully.

My passion for the industry has allowed me to value relationships, life and people very dearly.
I have had such tremendous learning experiences and mentors in the automotive industry, both within the dealership environment as well as from the outside, finding solutions to help dealers with their challenges.

www.pcgdigitalmarketing.com

About PCG Digital Marketing: PCG digital marketing is a full service full service Internet marketing company invested in our client’s success. Within the automotive community, PCG Digital Marketing has also been recognized for our quality services and programs. In 2011 we received three awards of excellence from DrivingSales.com. PCG was named the Top Rated SEO Company, Top Rated SEM Company, and Brian Pasch, CEO, was named the Top Rated Internet Trainer in the second annual Dealer Satisfaction awards. Most recently, the PCG education team was featured on the cover on Dealer Marketing Magazine‘s August 2011 issue.
PCG Digital Marketing Education: PCG Pit Stop – High quality digital marketing workshops and strategies to improve dealership operations are coming to cities across the US and Canada. The Internet is constantly changing, and the PCG Pit Stop® is offering progressive dealers new opportunities to market their goods and services. The PCG Pit Stop® has been designed to minimize time out of the dealership, while maximizing educational benefits. The combination of workshops, general session speakers, and technology showcases will provide attendees with a rich environment for learning, motivation, and future planning.

The annual Digital Marketing Strategies Conference (DMSC) is designed to give dealers access to the top industry experts to refine their automotive marketing and operations plans. DMSC is an unique educational opportunity for dealers. It is an intimate event that gives all attendees one-­‐on-­‐one time with industry leaders and market experts. DMSC has invited e-Commerce Directors from leading dealers in the US to share their strategies that will increasing your website traffic, sales, and profits. Learn from your peers that will tell you the truth about what is working and what they discarded! Learn from your peers how they allocate funds for digital marketing strategies.

The 2012 Digital Marketing Strategies Conference (DMSC) will be held at the Monte Carlo Hotel in Las Vegas on February 1st – 3rd.

Register to attend here: http://www.pcgdigitalmarketing.com/education/digital-marketing-strategies-conference/

Listen in as AskPatty.com CEO Jody DeVere sits down for a chat with Kathy Cloninger, CEO of the Girl Scouts of the USA.  The two discuss the importance of the GSUSA's mission, how the Girl Scouts have touched Kathy's life in particular, as well as her new book, the extremely aptly-titled Tough Cookies.

About the book:

Millions of American businesswomen, thought leaders, and politicians received their first lessons in salesmanship, money management, marketing, teamwork, and fulfillment in the Girl Scouts. The Girls Scouts has shaped the lives of more than 50 million alumnae alive today. Eighty percent of American female senior business executives and business owners are former Girl Scouts. In March 2012, the Girl Scouts will celebrate their 100th anniversary. Tough Cookies captures the essence of this iconic organization and the principles that have allowed them to build and sustain a 100-year-old organization.

Under current CEO Kathy Cloninger's leadership, the Girl Scouts has transformed and enhanced its ability to develop leadership in young women. Tough Cookies outlines the rise of the Girl Scouts, this recent and dramatically successful shift, and lessons that are applicable to make any business or organization a success.

Visit the Girl Scouts of the USA : http://www.girlscouts.org/

Today's guest is Paula Lombard - President - AutoTex PINK

As the owner of her own company, Lombard quickly found out that she could create her own opportunities that, in turn, would create more business. And that’s how Lombard’s latest venture AutoTex PINK, came to be.

In addition to creating their own identity in the market as a women-owned company, Lombard wanted to focus on what would attract a woman buyer. But while she researched stats about women buyers, like the fact that about 60% of customers at quick oil change locations are women, Lombard ended up forming her marketing plan in a much more personal way.

“I was touched by cancer,” she said. When her goddaughter was diagnosed with cancer of the cheek, Lombard knew the cause she had to become involved with. As AutoTex PINK is a women- owned company, she felt the need to donate to a charity that would help the largest amount of women nationwide.

“We found that breast cancer would be a good charity to donate to,” she said. “Women are really affected by breast cancer and we wanted to give back.”

Now partnered with the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 85 percent of AutoTex PINK’s proceeds go to benefitting women by providing educational information, free mamographies to those who can’t afford them, and breast cancer research.

And the rewards for getting involved with such a noble cause? “I love my job. I love everything about it,” she said. “For one, there’s always something new and exciting. But also, creating AutoTex PINK has been the most rewarding thing I’ve done. I see women who want this product, plus giving back is a very good feeling. It’s more rewarding than I ever imagined.”

Find an AskPatty.com  AutoTexPINK wiper blade retailer here http://www.askpatty.com/pink/

Or Visit www.AutoTexPink.com

Today's guest is Domenico Nigro of Nigro's Auto Body.

Domenico Nigro is the eldest son of Aniello Nigro, from whom he received a wealth of knowledge in every aspect of this business. Domenic is a graduate of Temple University.

He has years of experience training under his father, holds countless certifications and has been a full-time member of the Nigro’s Auto Body team since 1996. Domenic has developed his own software programs, and truly helped to merge new world technology with old world craftsmanship.

He is a superior business manager and holds customer service as a top priority. He personally handles each claim, and oversees every repair. Domenic guides the customer through the entire repair process from start to finish and is always happy to answer any questions. No vehicle has ever left his shop without receiving a complete and proper repair.

Visit website at:http://nigrosautobody.com/home/

Topics we will cover are;

-Distracted driving and back to school driving safety tips for   parents and teens.

- Mobile TattleTale and Teen Speedster App

Interview with Pat Wirth - President of the Automotive Oil Change Association and Owner of Potomac Falls Express Lube the only woman-owned fast lube business in Virginia.  Majority-owner Pat Wirth has been in the industry for over  twenty-five years.  She is President of the Regal Center business owner’s association, is a member of the Board of  Directors of the international fast lube trade association, Automotive Oil Change Association (AOCA) and currently serves as its President.  She frequently contributes articles to the leading industry magazine, National Oil and Lube News.  Pat is active in the Countryside Leadshare group that is part of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce and regularly participates in Sterling Woman activities.  Pat and each of her employees are either AOCA certified managers, technicians or both.

Protecting the Environment

Environmental stewardship has always been a top priority; in fact, Pat Wirth was the first lube operator in Northern Virginia to recycle oil filters nearly two decades ago.  We engage in eco-friendly practices by using environmentally recognized best practices and eco-friendly services and products.

Helping the Community

Potomac Falls Express Lube has supported the community from the day it opened its doors with charitable donations and hundreds of sponsorships for local organizations and events.  It also supports its employees with on-going training and educational opportunities.

Visit her website at: http://potomacfallsexpresslube.com/

Visit the Automotive Oil Change Association  website: http://www.aoca.org/

1. Interview with Audra Fordin who was the winner of the NYC 2011 small business of the year award.

2. Discuss summer driving and safety tips.

3. Discuss Turtle Wax Summer of Pride Contest.

Audra Ford in is the Owner/operator of Great Bear Auto Repair and Auto Body Shop, and Instructor for "Women auto-know".

Audra has been in the automotive industry all her life. Her business, has been in her family for 4 generations, and she is the first female to own and operate the shop. Audra's father used to take her to the shop on weekends to do filing and answering the phone. Her thirst for more experience grew.

Audra holds professional licenses and certifications in a number of areas including ATTP (automotive training program), New York State Motor Vehicle Inspector, New York State Motorcycle Inspector, is certified in Air Conditioning Refrigerant, ASE certified, and serves on the advisory committee for Farmingdale Automotive Technology.

Visit her online at http://www.greatbearautoshop.com

Summer Road Trip Preparations 

Trailers and Hitches Buying Guide & Safety Tips

Jamey Wozniak is the Owner and CEO of Joes Hitch, Trailer & Truck Accessories in Dallas, TX. Since 1932, Joes has been specializing in the installation of heavy duty towing products, trailer parts and repair, and sales of Truck and SUV accessories.

Wozniak does speaking engagements on the automotive industry, social media, balancing work and family, kids in the workplace, changing careers and how to break through the gender barrier. She is known as the “Hitch Bitch” in the automotive industry but in an endearing way. Jamey is obsessed with networking and social media and has been able to successfully build her “brand.”

Jamey is a graduate of the largest automotive school in the nation, Northwood University, where she earned a BBA in Marketing and Management. She has two children, ages 11 and 13, and resides near Dallas, Texas with husband Matt. 

Visit her online at http://www.joes-hitchandtrailer.com

Roger McManus, “Therapist for the Entrepreneurially Insane” 

Roger McManus has coached, funded, counseled and published for entrepreneurs. As a serial entrepreneur himself, he has garnered the wisdom of dozens of advisers and gathered years of experiences in an effort to develop a clear picture of the entrepreneurial mindset. 

 Roger has had the rare opportunity to see inside businesses resulting in the conclusion that many call themselves entrepreneurs, but few truly achieve the levels of freedom that the title should imply. 

Roger has been recognized by the SBA as Media Advocate of the Year and elected to the White House Conference on Small Business.

The Entrepreneurial Insanity series explores The Objective of business ownership: Freedom for the owner not to work in the business, but to have time to expand the business or expand personally. Since the owner cannot  be sold with the business, it is owner’s freedom thatgives the business a greater value. 

His book new, Entrepreneurial Insanity in the Tire Business: When Doing the Same Things Do Not Produce Different Results, It’s Time to Do Different Things! 

Order Roger's book at http://thetirebusiness.biz/askpatty.htm

Julie Scroggins. Julie Scroggins is Vice President and CFO of family built and owned Waukegan Tire and Supply Company, Inc., headquartered in Waukegan, Illinois. Besides being THE Tire and Wheel Experts throughout Northern Illinois, Chicago, and Milwaukee, Waukegan Tire has earned a reputation of community partner, philanthropist and trusted leader in the tire industry for over 40 years due to Julie’s vision. Topics: 

1. Tire Business insanity as it relates to serving women. Referencing Entrepreneurial Insanity in the Tire Business book by Roger McManus. 

2. Marketing and advertising to women in the tire industry. Get it right. 

3. Julie will discuss Tire tips for women.

In this show, Jody's guests are: Diane Larson of Larson's Service, and Pat Fleischman of Community Tire, both members of the AskPatty.com Expert Women Panel.

Diane Larson of Peabody, Massachusetts. Owner/ Manager of Larson's Service, a well-respected independent automotive service shop, servicing Domestic and Asian Vehicles and offering Quality Automotive Service with a Smile. :) Diane's background includes serving as a service advisor. She enjoys working with clients and employees. She was one of the first to take the ASE service consultant exam and is a Certified Service Consultant (ASE-C1).

Pat Fleischmann has worked in the automotive aftermarket since 1995. Her career has taken her from the streets providing auto parts and programs thru a local warehouse parts distributor to bookkeeping and now marketing of the company her and her husband now own called Community Tire and Auto Service Specialists. Community is a small 5 store chain operating in Arizona, focused on Auto repairs, maintenance and tire replacement for retail and small fleets. Pat is now focused on social media networking as well as local networking and marketing.

The Boomer and The Babe Network: Giving voice to 78 million Boomers from Coast to Coast and Border to Border. Each day a different guest and a different topic. Our guests generally have a nugget or two for anyone regardless of where you might be. We hope you enjoy the relaxed conversational style of the show. Nothing fancy just Boomers sitting around the table talkin’ about stuff.

The Boomer and the Babe Show:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/boomerandbabe

In this show, Jody's guests are: Christina Selter the Pet Safety Lady and Kristin Brocoff of CarMD.

A native Southern Californian, Pet Safety Lady Christina Selter spent her summers at church and in Girl Scout camps, no doubt where she began her life-long love of the outdoors. As the daughter of a career first responder, Christina learned at an early age what it means to be safe, from wearing a bike helmet and maybe even a helmet in the car (she'll never tell), to unplugging the coffee pot (which she shouldn't have been drinking at that age), safety runs in her blood.  Since founding Bark Buckle UP, Christina has become an expert on all things about pet safety including pet safety in all modes of transportation, pet safety in the yard, at the grocery store, at the pet store and even pet safety in the home or workplace.

Kristin Brocoff, marketing and public relations manager of CarMD.com Corp., was driving a 1996 Chevy Blazer with 110,000 miles and an illuminated “check engine” light when she was first exposed to automotive diagnostics through a conversation with Ieon C. Chen, CEO of CarMD.com Corp., who was developing a tool to empower consumers to solve their engine-related problems.  From then on, Kristin was committed to empowering drivers – women in particular – to make smart decisions when it comes to purchasing and maintaining their cars and trucks, and to make sure that drivers know they should not ignore their dashboard warning lights.

The Boomer and The Babe Network: Giving voice to 78 million Boomers from Coast to Coast and Border to Border. Each day a different guest and a different topic. Our guests generally have a nugget or two for anyone regardless of where you might be. We hope you enjoy the relaxed conversational style of the show. Nothing fancy just Boomers sitting around the table talkin’ about stuff.

The Boomer and the Babe Show:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/boomerandbabe

In this inaugural show, Jody's guests are: Lori Johnson Owner - Ladies Start Your Engines Amy Mattinat Owner and Author - Auto Craftsmen Ltd Lori’s business, Ladies, Start Your Engines! is a light maintenance class for women. Lori teaches her class using venues such as automotive dealerships, colleges, local adult education centers and women’s organizations. She enjoys empowering women with automotive knowledge so that they can feel confident when servicing or purchasing parts for their vehicles and she helps them become a more informed consumer. Lori Johnson is an adjunct faculty member in the Automotive Technology program at the Community College of Philadelphia. She has 7 years experience as an automotive technician and a new car service manager for a Honda dealership. She has been an automotive information specialist and automotive editor for Chilton Publications/SPX Information Services. She has also prepared test preparation guides for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

Amy Mattinat is the owner of Auto Craftsmen, an independent dealership in Vermont. Amy is passionate about automotive excellence. She feels that great customer service, communication, and continually educating her clients and staff are the key to her success. Amy wrote, "How To Buy A Great Used Car", which is available FREE at www.autocraftsmen.com. She believes that anyone can purchase a quality used car no matter what their budget is. They just need to do their “homework.” Join us for an interesting discussion about thier insights and helpful hints for improving your results when dealing with car problems.

Ladies Start Your Engines: www.ladiesstartyourengines.com

AutoCraftsman: www.autocraftsman.com

The Boomer and The Babe Network: Giving voice to 78 million Boomers from Coast to Coast and Border to Border. Each day a different guest and a different topic. Our guests generally have a nugget or two for anyone regardless of where you might be. We hope you enjoy the relaxed conversational style of the show. Nothing fancy just Boomers sitting around the table talkin’ about stuff.

The Boomer and the Babe Show:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/boomerandbabe

Until the early 1970s, consumers had no way to distinguish between incompetent and competent mechanics. In response to this need, the independent, non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was established in 1972.

ASE's mission is to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service through the testing and certification of repair and service professionals.

Motorists benefit from ASE certification. It is a valuable yardstick by which to measure the knowledge and skills of individual technicians as well as the commitment to quality of the repair facility employing ASE-Certified professionals.

ASE-certified professionals usually wear blue and white ASE insignia and carry credentials listing their exact areas of expertise (brakes, engine repair, etc.), while employers often display their technicians' credentials in the customer waiting area.

Motorists should look for facilities that display the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence® logo.

Visit the ASE website to learn more.

Ms. Dang is Chief of the New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), a division within the rule-making arm of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), since June 2008.  NCAP is one of the preeminent government consumer information programs in the world.  Its mission is to help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing or leasing a new or used vehicle by providing consumers information about crash protection and rollover safety of vehicles beyond Federal standards.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has set the standards for car safety for more than 30 years. NHTSA is raising the bar even higher starting with 2011 models by incorporating advanced technologies into testing procedures to better assess vehicle safety and probability for passenger injury.

Old tests included information about front and side crash worthiness, rollover resistance, and crash injury criteria for the chest only. By enhancing the 5-Star Safety Ratings System with rigorous new test procedures, and collecting injury data for the chest, head, neck, and legs, NHTSA provides consumers with the information needed to purchase the safest cars on the market today. Specific changes to the 5-Star Safety Ratings System, include:

• A side-impact test that simulates a 20-mph crash into a 10-inch diameter pole;
• The evaluation of advanced crash avoidance features such as Electronic Stability Control, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Departure Warning;
• A full injury assessment (crash ratings now measure injury to additional areas of the body);
• A simple way to evaluate cars with an Overall Ratings Score; five stars is the highest rating and one is the lowest; and Representative crash test dummies that better demonstrate how people of different sizes are affected in the event of a crash.
• The new 5-Star Safety Ratings System is part of NHTSA’s continuous effort to drive the development of safer cars. The latest testing standards challenge manufacturers to use the most advanced technologies to better protect people in real-world crashes. It’s simple—tougher tests mean safer cars.

Visit SaferCar.gov, the official website for the Federal government’s 5-Star Safety Ratings System, is a comprehensive site providing consumer information about safe driving
tips, defects, recalls, and passenger safety.

Kim is currently the Influencer Marketing Manager at Michelin, North America. In this role, she is responsible for understanding the consumer marketplace and developing strategies to engage key influencers of tire purchases and strengthen their relationships with the Michelin brand. Her work includes research and collaboration projects with several external groups associated with the Michelin brand.

Kim shares some great tips on greener tire choices, tire maintenance and tire buying.

Visit MichelinMan.com for more information.

Twitter: http://twitter.com/michelinmanusa

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MichelinMan

Knowing that the frustrations she and her friends had finding good contractors were not unique, in 1995, Angie Hicks literally set out door-to-door in Columbus, OH, recruiting members and collecting reports from friends and neighbors to start what would become Angie’s List. Taking the “ask-your-neighbor” approach to a higher level, Angie used the detailed feedback from members as the basis for providing up-to- date, reliable, unbiased ratings and reviews on local services.

After the first year, with more than 1,000 members throughout Columbus, Angie had laid the foundation for what would become one of the fastest growing companies in the U.S.
Over these last 13 years, she has led the list’s expansion from a 100 square foot office to an operation that now covers the nation, serves more than 650,000 consumers and was placed for three years in a row – 2002, 2003 and 2004 – among the Inc. 500 by Inc. magazine, a list of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the nation. All the while, Angie’s keen sense of business and common sense have helped Angie’s List remain a locally-focused service that members say they wouldn’t live without. Over the years, consumers have come to trust Angie to help make the hiring process easier, as well as raise the level of service they can expect from local companies and contractors.

A working mother herself, Angie has ensured Angie’s List continues to evolve to meet the ever-changing, dynamic needs of today’s families and homeowners. She knows that Angie’s List members are challenged each day to fit work, family and at-home time into already busy schedules. With this in mind, Angie’s List puts reliable information and resources at the fingertips of its members, so they can access it anytime they need help finding a good contractor or service company – whether it’s for a major home renovation, an emergency car repair, or even find a clown for their kid’s birthday party.

With more consumers across the U.S. turning to Angie’s List each day, Angie regularly contributes to national and local consumer news stories across the country, including for CNN, The Washington Post, The New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Redbook, Real Simple, USA Weekend, Parade magazine, Good Housekeeping, Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, Home Magazine and the Wall Street Journal.

Angie’s official title at Angie’s List is Founder and Chief Marketing Officer. She holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a bachelor’s degree in economics from DePauw University, in Greencastle, IN, which named her a 2007 Distinguished Alumni for Management and Entrepreneurship.

http://www.angieslist.com

Michelle Dukeman currently serves as Brand Manager for Goodyear Passenger tires in Goodyear’s North American Tire division.

Dukeman joined Goodyear in 2006 as a Brand Manager for the Goodyear Brand, focusing on new products. In her time at Goodyear, she has identified consumer needs and brought innovations to life in new passenger tire products. In 2010, she led a cross-functional team to launch Goodyear Assurance ComforTred Touring.

Prior to joining Goodyear, Michelle had 10 years of marketing experience for a major branded consumer packaged goods company. Her experience and strengths are in new products, consumer marketing and brand communications. Michelle has a B.S. in Communications from Ohio University, and a M.A. in Communications from The University of Akron.

Michelle is an Akron native and third-generation Goodyear employee; her grandfather and father both built tires for Goodyear. She is married and has a 2 year-old son. Michelle takes pride in being a mom, homemaker and businesswoman and strives to be a role model for her son.

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. will enlist its blimp fleet to remind motorists about National Tire Safety Week, which runs June 6-12.

The tiremaker's three airships -- the Akron, Ohio-based Spirit of Goodyear, the Pompano Beach, Fla.-based Spirit of Innovation and the Carson, Calif.-based Spirit of America -- will fly with specially designed day and night tire care messages urging vehicle owners to keep their tires properly inflated.

The blimps' message boards hold a total of 82,656 LED lights, allowing messages to be read from more than a quarter-mile away.

http://www.goodyeartires.com/

In more ways than one, Kelly Williams is like one of her race cars, strategically driving her way forward at high-speed.  As spokesperson for Car Care Canada’s Be Car Care Aware campaign, Williams brings her experience as a race car driver, educator, safety advocate and promoter to the Canadian public.

Williams has driven race cars for over 15 years, beginning at the tender age of 17.  After graduating from teacher’s college at the University of Toronto in 1994, she decided to devote all of her energy to a racing career.  Her dedication and skills allowed her to quickly move through the ranks of Canadian motorsport.  Soon she started competing in what is now called the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, the most prestigious arena for stock car racing in Canada. 

Today Williams keeps busy as the Spokesperson for Be Car Care Aware, is a driving instructor for BMW and hosts ladies Car Care clinics across Canada.

Recently Williams:
•    Traveled around the world with the Champcar Series as a Pace Car Driver.
•    Tested race vehicles for the Craftsman Truck series.
•    Lead driving instructor for Downtown Porsche Women’s Day
•    Competed in the One Lap of America race.
•    Hosted Mechanical Chicks on Global TV.
•    Acted as an expert panellist in a Discovery Channel series called “Canada’s Worst Driver” (Season one).
•    Acted as Car Care Canada’s Be Car Care Aware spokesperson since October 2004.

Williams also uses her training in education to teach advanced driving skills for various vehicle manufacturers with a strong focus on safe driving techniques.  Off the track, Williams fills her schedule with teaching, public speaking appearances, school visits and trade show participation.

http://www.kellywilliamsracing.com

Lori's business, Ladies, Start Your Engines! is a light maintenance class for women. Lori teaches her class using venues such as automotive dealerships, colleges, local adult education centers and women’s organizations. She enjoys empowering women with automotive knowledge so that they can feel confident when servicing or purchasing parts for their vehicles and she helps them become a more informed consumer.

Lori Johnson is an adjunct faculty member in the Automotive Technology program at the Community College of Philadelphia. She has 7 years experience as an automotive technician and a new car service manager for a Honda dealership. She has been an automotive information specialist and automotive editor for Chilton Publications/SPX Information Services. She has also prepared test preparation guides for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

Lori holds professional licenses and certifications in a number of areas including Air Conditioning Refrigerant, Pennsylvania Emissions Inspection and Pennsylvania Safety Inspection and is ASE certified. She is a qualified Motorcycle Safety Instructor and is a Pennsylvania State Inspection instructor. Lori has a strong record of service to the College and the community. Among other activities, she has served on two Hiring Committees at the college and currently serves on the Teaching Center and the Scholarship Advisory Boards.

Lori earned a certification in Automotive Technology from Pennco Tech and in Client Server Technology from Penn State University. She has an A.A.S. degree in Automotive Technology and a B.A. in Women's Studies/Sociology from Temple University.

When she’s not teaching you can find her riding her Harley Davidson Heritage Softail.

Visit her online at http://www.ladiesstartyourengines.com

Bio and headshot here:

http://www.askpatty.com/automotive_expert.php?n=Lori%20Johnson

About Susan Schalk:

My automotive career began in 1973 and encompassed a few firsts—the first woman to be in the Plymouth Trouble Shooting contest (1974), first to attain a California smog license (1974), first to attain ASE certifications (1974, then called NIASE). I was a dealership tech for 3 years specializing in driveability and electrical, worked at service stations or for myself for 4 years, and spent 9 years at an auto restoration shop where my work switched from mechanical to predominantly body and paint work. Because of this wide range of experience I was able to pass all the tests required to attain ASE Master Technician status for Automobile Repair, Engine Machinist—Gas, Medium/Heavy Truck and Collision Repair and Refinishing (2004).

Twelve years ago (1998) I joined Mitchell 1, the company that used to make the “Mitchell Manual”—a name still widely recognized in shops. At Mitchell 1 I worked my way through different departments and positions from researcher to editor to data processer to business analyst to my current position of continuous (process) improvement manager.

I enjoy designing and building projects, gardening, traveling and continuing education. I have been attending college on and off since 1976. Along the way I’ve earned a B.A. and M.A. in psychology, a Web Publishing certificate and, most recently, an M.B.A. with an emphasis in Finance.

About Mitchell 1:

Mitchell 1 provides automotive repair data to repair shops and dealers throughout the United States and Canada. It also provides electronic auto repair shop Management Tools and ERP systems. It provides loyalty management (CRM) services for small, medium, and large automotive repair shops as well as Branded Web Sites and Specialized Repair Information for Automotive Enterprises.

http://www.m1products.net/

Recommended Reading by Susan Schalk: Drive It Forever: Secrets to Long Automobile Life by Robert Sikorsky

Julie Scroggins is Vice President, Comptroller of Waukegan Tire & Supply. Located forty minutes north of Chicago in the populous and diverse city of Waukegan, IL, Waukegan Tire is truly the big kid in town, committed to serving the Chicagoland and Milwaukee metro area with excellence since 1968, with four locations and growing.  As a family business, Julie has worked twenty-seven years alongside founder Gerald Nerheim, brother and Vice President Sales & Operations Steve Nerheim, and husband and Wholesale Division Manager David Scroggins.  The “family” doesn’t stop there, with eighty plus employees and many of their own relatives working for the company to boot!

Having been established as a family business, it actually makes sense that Waukegan Tire has been a consistent supporter and sponsor of children’s foundations and events.  Uniroyal Tire and Waukegan Tire have been partners in Youth Soccer since Fall 2000.  Since that season, Waukegan Tire has sponsored several local soccer leagues, giving away more than 11,000 soccer balls to children in surrounding communities.  According to Julie, their proudest accomplishment came in partnership with the City of Park City, through a young officer named David Alarcon.  Officer Alarcon had a vision of bringing the sport of soccer to Park City and took it door-to-door, signing up the city’s youth to participate in a soccer program in an effort to keep them off the streets.  As a result, the City of Park City restored an area in an existing park into a soccer field, providing a safe place for the children to play.  Waukegan Tire provided each child with their own soccer ball, and Uniroyal and Waukegan Tire donated money towards equipment and other needs for the children of Park City.  This partnership continues today.  Julie remarks, “You can drive by the park in Park City and see children playing soccer outdoors now, and it gives all of us at Waukegan Tire tremendous satisfaction to be a part of that outstanding effort brought about by David Alarcon, now City Administrator.”  She adds, “There is no greater investment any of us can make than in the future of our children.”

You can learn more about Waukegan Tire by visiting their website at www.waukegantire.com.

10 Fun Facts about the Uniroyal® Soccer Program

1. The Uniroyal Soccer Program is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this year.

2. Uniroyal has donated nearly one million soccer balls to youth soccer leagues since the program began.

3. The soccer balls Uniroyal has donated could fill 4,000 station wagons.

4. In the last ten years, the Uniroyal Soccer Program has raised almost $12 million in donations for youth soccer leagues.

5. The Uniroyal Soccer Program could fill more than eight 747s with the soccer balls it has donated to youth soccer leagues!

6. The Uniroyal Soccer Program started in 2000 with around 200 dealers and has grown to over 1,000 in both America and Canada!

7. Forty-eight out of 50 American states, plus the District of Columbia had dealers participating in the Uniroyal Soccer Program in 2008.

8. All the soccer balls Uniroyal has given away since 2000 could fill more than three Olympic size swimming pools.

9. The Uniroyal Soccer Program has donated funds and equipment to over 3,000 youth soccer leagues.

10. Uniroyal donates $2 for every Uniroyal tire a dealer sells during a 30 day period to leagues in the program.

Susan Givens is the Owner and Publisher of AutoSuccess Magazine. Susan started with AutoSuccess Magazine in her final semester at the University of Louisville where she received her degree with a major in Business Management and a minor in International Business. The focus of the magazine is to create a positive avenue for the readers to learn and grow. Susan has made this way of thinking part of her everyday life.

"By staying positive, you can learn and grow so much faster!"

Since starting with AutoSuccess Magazine, she has seen the industry changing. "More women are influencing the automotive industry than ever before, it’s an exciting time for both consumer and automotive industry women!"

Attend the Auto Success Synergy Sessions October 5th - 7th 2009 in Atlanta by registering here.

http://www.synergysessions.com/

With signs of recovery and optimism growing every day in the auto retailing industry, Dealer Synergy along with media partners, AutoSuccess Magazine and Dealer Marketing Magazine are scheduling the fourth Annual Synergy Sessions Conference.  This year’s theme is “Restructure to Maximize Performance.” 

The events of the last twelve months have been a strong wakeup call to all of those working in the auto retailing market. Dealers recognize they need to adapt to new ways of doing business in an ever changing marketplace.   After last year’s very successful Synergy Session event in New Orleans and over 300 industry attendees, this year’s event in October will be even bigger.

The Keynote speaker will be John Ferber, who along with his brother Scott was the Co-Founder of Advertising.com, which was acquired by AOL in 2004 for $495 million dollars. Advertising.com now has a book value of approximately 10 billion dollars and is the cornerstone of AOL's future. John and Scott were named in 2000 as Entrepreneurs of the Year by Ernst and Young LLP. John is currently the CEO of USO Networks, the premier Video Search Engine Optimization Company.

Introduction:  Karen Salvaggio's twenty-four year racing career began in 1985 on the NASCAR Winston Series dirt track events of Central California. After securing a Most Improved Driver award and numerous top five finishes in stockcar racing, she made the move to road racing with the Vintage Auto Racing Association (VARA).

Driving a 1959 Corvette, Karen competed in night endurance races and competition events across the Southwest. Her growing passion for racing and a desire to develop highly refined driving skills led her into performance driving Corvettes in high and low speed events with the SCCA and National Council of Corvette Clubs (NCCC).

In 2000, Karen joined the American Le Mans Series (ALMS), competing in the Women's Global GT Series. Karen has also competed in NHRA drag racing events, garnering the Gardei Memorial Overall Competitor Award in 1997 (Firebird Raceway), and Top Eliminator at the Pomona Drags in 1999. She also serves as an instructor driver at NCCC, NASA, and SVTOA driving school events, and enjoys working with novice drivers as they develop confidence through driving mastery.

Karen has secured more that 160 first place finishes in driving competitions, and was awarded the 2005 West Coast Region Championship for the National Council of Corvette Clubs (NCCC), a title she previously secured in 1998, 1999 and 2001. In 2008, she competed with Team DivaSpeed, the first all-woman endurance racing team to run in the Western Endurance Racing Championship (WERC), and stood on the podium four times, including a 1st place in the 6 Hours of Buttonwillow, and 1st place in the 4 Hours of Infineon. Success followed her throughout the 2008 season, and consistent performances resulted in her earning the Runner-Up FFR Championship award for the 2008 FFR West Coast Challenge Series.

Current Season: Awarded 2009 FFR West Coast Championship! 2009 finds Karen competing in the Factory Five Challenge Series (FFR) in her 1965 Cobra replica racer with the National Auto Sport Association (NASA).

Current season:
2009 Stats:  7 Pole Positions, 7 1st place race victories, and 10 podium finishes, including competition at Infineon, California Speedway, Buttonwillow Raceway Park and Thunderhill Raceway. Now in her fourth year in the cars, Karen has really mastered the unique driving style required to pilot the Cobra. In 2008, her driving skill resulted in 13 pole positions, fourteen podium finishes, and two overall race victories. She competes at the local and national FFR Challenge Series levels though participation in the FFR West Coast Series, and at the NASA Nationals to be held at Miller Motorsports Park in September 2009.

Endurance Racing: Endurance racing is Karen’s true passion, and in 2008, she and her intrepid race team, took on the most extreme endurance racing challenge on the planet, competing for a second time in the 25 Hours of Thunderhill. Her team completed 470 grueling laps, (more than 1,100 miles under racing conditions), and finished 8th in class and 48th over (in a field of 72 teams). Team Thunder Valley Racing is already making plans for the 2009 25 Hours race in which they will field the first ever Type 65 “Daytona” Coupe to compete in the longest race in its marque’s history Racing the GTM-R: 3 Hour Enduro: Karen had the opportunity to co-drive the fast and oh so beautiful GTM-R at the 3 Hour Enduro of Buttonwillow in June 2009. Along with her talented co-driver Chris Durbin, the pair secured first in class and stood atop the podium as the overall race winners!

Thunder Valley Racing: Karen is now in her eighth year as Editor-in-Chief for Thunder Valley Racing, and travels nationally to support women in racing efforts. She is an instructor driver with the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) and the SVTOA Clubs, and feeds the competitive spirit through high speed competition events.

Racing Goals:  Karen’s racing goal is to compete on a national or international level with a road racing team at endurance events. Her personal goal is to bring widespread, international attention to the efforts of the women in racing through her work with the dedicated team at Thunder Valley Racing.

Personal: Karen served nine years in the U.S. Air Force as an aircraft mechanic on B-52's and KC-135 aircraft. She had several stateside assignments, as well as tours in Japan and the Philippines. In 1985 she left the military to pursue a career in education, and used the GI Bill to secure her college education while working full time as a service manager at a motorcycle shop. She earned her bachelors degree in social science in 1989, and became an elementary school teacher for the next seven years. She served as a school principal for the last eight years, and now Karen serves as Assistant Superintendent of Education Services for the Romoland School district in the Inland Empire area of Southern California. She holds a Doctorate in organizational leadership, and a Master's Degree in education.  Her daughter Tracy is an aspiring driver, garnering the SCCA Novice Driver of the Year award when she was just 16 years of age.

Special Thanks to: Karen is grateful for the support of her loving family, professional colleagues, and many racing friends who believe in her and helped her follow her dreams. Karen’s racing efforts would also not be possible without the support of her awesome sponsors: Levy Racing, Ezlogy, CarboTech Brakes, HeadOn Photos, Indian Hills Auto Body, and of course, Thunder Valley Racing.

Karen is also an expert women for AskPatty.com on racing and the motorsports world!

Dr. Karen Salvaggio

http://www.thundervalleyracing.com
http://www.teamcobra25hours.com

Type of Racing: Sports Car

Race Series: Factory Five Challenge Series (NASA FFR); Editor in Chief: Thunder Valley Racing

Personal Motto: "Dream big; Work hard!"

As the first female test driver at Michelin North America, Sarah K. Robinson is paving a new road for women in the automotive world. Robinson’s current responsibilities as a subjective test driver for Michelin include evaluating tire performance in both objective (e.g., wet braking) and subjective tests (e.g., wet and dry handling, noise) then delivering her results to Michelin’s designers and engineers to ensure the best possible tire is brought to market. She also develops and coordinates all visitor demonstrations, product launches and promotional activities occurring at Michelin’s test track, Laurens Proving Grounds (LPG) in Greenville, South Carolina.

Prior to becoming a test driver, Robinson was an industrial engineer for Michelin, responsible for establishing and maintaining machine standards, manpower needs and process improvement.

Robinson is also a driving instructor, most recently at Xtreme Measures and Richard Petty Safe Driving Program, where she instructs students to develop car control skills, situational awareness and basic automotive understanding.  She considers this one of the most rewarding experiences in her career. Robinson has also competed in SCCA Autocross and Rallycross.  

Robinson is a resident of Simpsonville, SC, and a pet lover who owns two dogs, Roux and TrackDog, and a herd of cats. She is a graduate of Auburn University. 

Some days you're bringing home the latest masterpiece and some days you're celebrating a magnificent performance. The only constant is you need a tire that can keep up with a balance of performance, safety and fuel-efficiency. That's why we created the MICHELIN^® Energy™ Saver A/S Tire, a tire designed for your modern life.

Visit Michelin Life Balance on Facebook and get a chance to win free coffee and learn about the Michelin Energy Saver A/S Tire.

Soon Nguyen has nearly a decade of agency experience with high end consumer products and the luxury market. She was recently Vice President of Client Services at a lifestyle media relations agency in Los Angeles where she was instrumental in creating long lasting partnerships with some of the firm’s most prestigious brands including Automobili Lamborghini, Vespa Scooters, Boyd Gaming Corporation and Ducati Motorcycles as well as headed the account team that launched eBay Motors. She also worked for nearly two years as a field producer and assignment editor at KCOP-TV Los Angeles.

Her approach to media relations at Luxe Communications is to work hand in hand with brands to truly dissect what makes their product and service different from their competitors. While working in news television in the #2 media market in the country Soon was on the receiving end of hundreds of company pitches claiming their product or service was either “the best, the most innovative or the hottest trend.” Her experience in deciphering what actually was considered newsworthy provides her the ability to quickly ascertain what really makes headlines and can impact consumer opinion.  She relies on this knowledge at Luxe Communications to hone effective media strategies to ensure that her client’s products/services can be quantified or qualified to the relevant media they wish to reach in order to warrant placement.

Soon’s true strength is her ability to connect with the client and understand their desire to work with a communications partner not just a public relations or marketing agency. Her approach at Luxe Communications is not just to “get them out there” but to create sustainable campaigns that truly make an impact and influence opinion for a brand.

Favorite Guilty Pleasure: 80s music (not the fashion, just the music!)
Favorite Food: French fries                  
Food That “Sucks”: Black licorice
Favorite Movie: LA Confidential or any Russell Crowe film                                 
Worst Movie Ever Seen: Shallow Hall (it was a free screening and I still walked out)      
Best Joke: I can not repeat it due to my professionalism as a PR executive

www.luxecommunications.com

Dianne Ely
Campus President - Orlando
Universal Technical Institute, Inc.

Dianne Ely has 30 years of experience in education and business, and held various positions in management, operations and human resources. Ely joined Universal Technical Institute, Inc. in 2003 as campus president of Universal Technical Institute (UTI), Motorcycle Mechanics Institute and Marine Mechanics Institute (MMI) in Orlando. She is responsible for providing overall leadership to management and staff.

In alignment with UTI’s core values and leadership principles, Ely directs campus initiatives for the three distinct brands at the Orlando campus. Her responsibilities include the evaluation, revision, implementation and communication of school policies and procedures as well as maximizing new student enrollments, maintaining regulatory and accreditation approvals, and the day-to-day management of staffing, training, development and performance of campus employees.

Prior to joining UTI, Ely worked for Sears, Roebuck and Co. for 25 years. Starting as a part-time employee, she advanced to store manager and finished her tenure as regional manager. During this time, Ely gained significant experience in management, sales, motivation, training, customer service and operations, for which she received company-wide recognition.

Ely is a member of the National Association of Female Executives. She has also served as a unit chairman for the United Way and the American Red Cross blood drives. Other volunteer memberships include Be An Angel Dog Ministry, Therapy Dogs, Inc. and Central Florida SPCA.

Ely earned a Masters of Business Administration with a specialty in global management from University of Phoenix in Phoenix, Ariz and a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio.


About Universal Technical Institute

Universal Technical Institute, Inc. (NYSE: UTI) is a leading provider of technical education training for students seeking careers as professional automotive, diesel, collision repair, motorcycle and marine technicians. The company offers undergraduate degree, diploma and certificate programs at 10 campuses across the United States, and manufacturer-sponsored advanced programs at 19 dedicated training centers. Through its campus-based school system, Universal Technical Institute, Inc. offers specialized technical education programs through several well-known brands, including Universal Technical Institute (UTI), Motorcycle Mechanics Institute and Marine Mechanics Institute (MMI) and NASCAR Technical Institute (NASCAR Tech). For more information, visit www.uti.edu.

In an effort to bring light to the issue of heart disease, Jiffy Lube has collaborated with the American Heart Association and its Go Red for Women campaign to raise money for the fight against heart disease. Jiffy Lube Maintenance Partners for Life campaign emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy heart and a healthy vehicle through basic preventive maintenance practices. Last year, Jiffy Lube raised over $1 million for the cause.

This year’s goal is to raise $1.5 million, and from January 28 through March 16 you can support the cause by making a $3 donation at one of more than 1,700 participating Jiffy Lube service centers across the country. In appreciation for the donation, you will receive a Jiffy Lube Maintenance Partners for Life savings book with heart-healthy recipes and $100 in savings from Jiffy Lube and other AHA supporters.

The facts are really startling. 

·         Nearly 2,400 Americans die of cardiovascular disease  each day- an average of one death ever 37 seconds.

·         Heart disease is the number one killer of adults.

·         Despite more women dying of heart disease than the next five causes of death combined, only 21 percent of women view heart disease as their greatest health threat.

Empowering You to Care For Your Vehicle

Another goal of the campaign is to empower women to take more control over the maintenance of their vehicles and stress the importance of preventive maintenance. A big part of that is educating yourself and asking your service provider questions. However, a good rule is to follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, which can be found in your owner’s manual. This will help keep your vehicle running properly and help you avoid a costly breakdown. 

Learn More

You can learn more about the campaign by visiting a special web site we created at www.JiffyLubeGoesRed.com. You will find the nearest participating locations and find tips on fighting heart disease and properly maintaining your vehicle. There is also a community page that allows you to share your personal story related to heart disease. You can also visit www.GoRedForWomen.org to learn more about Go Red for Women and their efforts to combat heart disease.

Yvonne Williams is a road safety educator and member of the Australasian College of Road Safety.  She is a freelance journalist, motoring writer and co-founder of The Survival Group, a road safety education development organisation.Her avid interest in cars began when she met her husband David who belonged to a car club.  They started competing in motor sport events and still enjoy tarmac rallies today.  Their son Tristan who is also involved in The Survival Group is an aspiring race driver and Advanced Driver Training Consultant.Yvonne and David became involved in road safety education in 1996 when their children started driving.Because of their motor sport background and the fact that David was a driving instructor, they knew very early on what their kids needed to concentrate on when out driving.  They also spent over 120 hours supervising their teens under varied driving conditions.

During this time Yvonne developed a range of road safety training resources for schools and teachers.  The SKID Program and Young Driver Survival Kit were eagerly received by Senior Schools in Australia and New Zealand. In a bid to empower parents and make an impact on the dreadful young driver road toll, The Survival Group has gone global with their special training resource for parents with teen drivers – Coach a Rookie Guide.   The CaR Guide is now part of the PATTI Road Safety Program.  Parents Actively Teaching Teens Initiative.

A group of racecars piloted by the best drivers in NASCAR are turning a corner.  Without warning, one of the cars suddenly hits the outside wall.  None of the cars touched, there were no engine failures or flat tires… so what happened?

This is the question that sparked physics professor Diandra Leslie-Pelecky’s interest in the science of NASCAR.  What she thought would be ten-minute search of the web turned into a book, The Physics of NASCAR, that takes NASCAR (and science) fans behind the scenes at top race shops, onto the asphalt at Texas Motor Speedway and into the garage with the Gillett Evernham Motorsports’ No. 19 car.  Her popular website, www.stockcarscience.com includes a blog with weekly entries about topical science-related happenings in NASCAR.

About the Author

• Diandra Leslie-Pelecky earned undergraduate degrees in physics and philosophy from the University of North Texas and a Ph.D. in condensed matter physics from Michigan State University.  She joined the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in 1994, and moved to The University of Texas at Dallas as Professor of Physics in May 2008.
• Professor Leslie-Pelecky is a nationally recognized researcher in magnetic nanomaterials.  Her work, which is funded by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health, focuses on fundamental understanding of magnetic materials and application of those materials to medical diagnosis and treatment processes such as magnetic resonance imaging and chemotherapy.
• Professor Leslie-Pelecky is also nationally recognized for her work in science education for K-12 schools, future science teachers, and the public.  She has directed projects aimed at improving science education at all levels, supported primarily by the National Science Foundation.  Educational materials on the science of motorsports are being developed for middle and high schools (www.buildingspeed.org).
• Professor Leslie-Pelecky has given numerous presentations for technical and non-technical audiences, including addresses for the public sponsored by the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Physical Society. Her book, The Physics of NASCAR, was excerpted by TIME magazine and has been featured in Sporting News magazine. She appears periodically on the Sirius Speedway satellite radio program to update listeners on the scientific principles that affect their favorite drivers.

Jennifer Justice-Haley shares her tips and about her auto industry career in the collision industry. Jennifer is the Corporate Secretary and General Manager of Valley Paint & Body, Inc., DBA; Mercedes Benz of Cincinnati Collision Center, where she’s been employed since 1984. Co-Owner of Elite Collision Service, Inc., DBA; Mercedes Benz of West Chester Collision Center since 2005. Member ASA Ohio Legislative and Insurance Committees. In 2007 appointed by Governor Strickland to the Ohio Collision Repair Board, overseeing collision repair business registration in the State of Ohio. She is a Board Member of the Women’s Industry Network, a collision industry organization attracting women to the industry and vocational schools as well as a promoting leadership and networking within the industry. She also serves on the Automotive Program Advisory Board for US Grant Joint Vocational School in Bethel, Ohio. Mother of Stephen Haley and Kevin Haley who both work in the automotive industry! www.womensindustrynetwork.com www.mbcollision.com

Annette Sykora the first women "Chairman" in the 91 year history of the National Automobile Dealer Association shares her thoughts on being a women working in the auto industry and some of the excellent programs and initiatives that the National Automobile Dealer Association offers that women will love.

Annette Sykora was recently featured by Forbes Autos as one of the most influential women in the auto industry. Check out the article in Forebes Autos by clicking here.

She is was very excited to announce the NADA Green Campaign featuring Green Checkups. More than 300 dealers in 43 states have signed up to offer Green Checkups.

To help motorists save money at the gas pump and—at the same time—cut greenhouse gas emissions through proper vehicle maintenance, the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) has created a check list of Green Maintenance Tips, which can be found at a new Web site for consumers, www.GreenDrivingUSA.com.

September is Child Passenger Safety month. Thousands of new-car dealers around the country will host free child safety seat inspections at their dealerships as part of the national "Boost for Safety" campaign, developed by NADA, in conjunction with NHTSA. 

About Annette Sykora:

Annette (Smith) Sykora started her career in the automotive industry in 1982 as title clerk at Smith Ford Mercury. In 1983 she was the Finance Manager and by 1989, took over as General Manager. Shortly thereafter she purchased controlling interest in the family dealership. Annette has been active on many factory committees, such as chairing the Ford Dealers Advertising Fund for Greater Texas, and serving on many other Ford committees as well.

Currently she serves her fellow automobile dealers as the NADA (National Automobile Dealers Association) director for Northern Texas, a position she has held since 1999. Elected by her peers, she assumed the office of Chairman of NADA on February 11, 2008.  She also serves as a Trustee for the National Automobile Dealers Charitable Foundation. During her tenure as Chairman of the NADA Public Affairs committee in 2000 and 2001, the Code of Ethics was written and adopted by a number of state dealer associations and was also well received by the dealer body.  NADA and NHTSA also began their partnership on a National Child Safety Seat Campaign.

Mrs. Sykora has served on the Slaton Chamber of Commerce Board and was named Chamber Member of the Year, 2005.

She and her husband Patrick also have another dealership, Smith South Plains Ford Lincoln Mercury Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Levelland Texas. They also have five children, Haylee (18) Nicole (18) Hannah (14) Holden (13) and Ryan (9.)

Visit Smith South Plains Ford Lincoln Mercury Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Levelland Texas an AskPatty.com Certified Female Friendly Dealership:

http://femalefriendlydealer.askpatty.com/?d=Smith_South_Plains

Carlana Stone, author of the acclaimed book “Never Give In, Never Give Up”, was paralyzed in a car accident at age 17. In the blink of an eye, Carlana went from cheerleader and gymnast to paraplegic. Not adhering to the stigma and physical restraints of her injury, Carlana forged ahead.

Carlana has chosen to embrace her wheelchair as a force, rather than a hindrance. In stark contrast to the stereotypes placed on the physically disabled, since her accident Carlana has become a certified scuba diver, learned to pilot airplanes, and enjoys sky diving, sailing and skiing.

Using her “chair” as a “platform” for social change, Carlana has become a strong voice in support of stem cell research. “The possibilities are limitless,” Stone says. “Stem cell research will impact millions of lives. I’m committed to doing all I can to make this promise a reality.”

And she’s not all talk. Carlana’s get-up-and-go philosophy has turned many of her dreams into realities. At 25, Carlana became the first wheelchair-bound reporter for ABC in Miami, featured 5 days a week on the evening news. As the station’s dynamic human-interest reporter, viewers could not help but be influenced by Carlana’s infectious enthusiasm and genuine concern for the people behind the stories she shared during her 2-year tenure on WPLG-TV.

Broadening her scope, Carlana moved to Los Angeles to launch a career in talk shows, producing an array of daytime talk shows, such as Leeza, Judge Judy, and Ben Stein, just to name a few. She then went on to produce and Senior Produce Prime Time Network Specials. Currently, Carlana is the Senior Casting Producer for “Intervention” the award-winning documentary series on A & E.

Carlana is also a highly sought-after International Speaker; delivering keynotes in venues ranging from Britain’s illustrious House of Lords to being highlighted at FAWCO International’s annual convention in Berlin, Germany, to keynoting for one of America’s largest employers, Entertainment Partners, in Los Angeles.

Over the last 2 decades, Carlana has toured a variety of schools here in America and England alike, including world-renowned, TASIS, The American School in England. Her passion is to provide content-rich opportunities, a warm and nurturing environment where diversity is prized. Through her personal struggles, Carlana empathizes with others and can share her unique insight to be a vehicle for empowering children and young adults to believe that ANYTHING IS and CAN BE POSSIBLE.

Carlana is called on regularly to represent and speak on behalf of a number of charities, including Americans for Cures Foundation, the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, and the National Pain Foundation, which honored Carlana as 2007’s Pain Awareness Patient Ambassador of the Year.

Fueled by her own philosophy, “Pay no attention to boundaries,” in 2006, Carlana founded The Courage Community and is using her own experience in the face of adversity to support our veterans as they confront the brutal aftermath of war. Carlana is helping soldiers realize their true potential and achieve their dreams. Carlana states:

“It is my dream and ambition to offer our injured Veterans the hope of a better future, and a richer quality of life. We will be sponsoring initiatives which will provide our service men and women access to resources to address even their most basic needs - programs that have enhanced the quality of my own life in spite of my disability. The sky’s the limit!”

The Courage Community will schedule events, appearances, and targeted awareness campaigns in virtual communities as well as launching grass-roots campaigns in local communities, establishing Courage Community Chapters nationwide, engaging community members to become directly involved in supporting their own hometown heroes.

Following her record-making solo-flight as one of the first female paraplegics in the world to solo-pilot a single-engine aircraft, Carlana was featured on every local LA news affiliate, including, KABC, KNBC, KCBS, KTTV; Carlana was also featured on numerous local and national radio shows including, KABC and KFWB; Carlana has appeared in several articles in a host of national and international flight magazines.

In March, 2008, Carlana was chosen to become one of ten contestants on Oprah Winfrey’s Big Give, airing Sunday nights on ABC. This marked a critical day in history for Carlana, as she became the first paraplegic to appear on a national primetime network reality show. “I applaud Oprah and ABC for their willingness to step outside the box and cast me on the show. It’s an honor to be on an equal, level playing field with the other contestants, and have the onus focused on my ability, not my disability.”

----

A veterans’ self-help guide from the United Spinal Association advises all veterans with disabilities how to establish that a current disability or condition is related to military service or existed before military service and was aggravated by such service.

Any claim to the Department of Veterans Affairs for disability compensation must have a valid medical diagnosis of a current disability, medical evidence that the disability had its onset during active military service and medical evidence of a linkage between active military service and the current disability.

The online guide, available at www.unitedspinal.org/publications/vetsfirst/, also provides information about VA pensions for veterans whose disabilities are not related to military service and the circumstances under which such pensions might be available.

Other important VA programs covered in the guide include: benefits for dependents and survivors of veterans; the VA health-care system; appeals of claims for VA compensation and pension; and, getting help from VA-authorized veterans service organizations such as the United Spinal Association.

While this publication contains some information specific to VA benefits for veterans with spinal cord injuries and diseases such as multiple sclerosis and ALS, much of its content is applicable to any veteran of U.S. military service.

The United Spinal Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Americans with spinal cord injuries or disorders, especially through its VetsFirst program. For more information, visit www.unitedspinal.org or call (800) 404-2898.

Karen Vonder Meulen is the new Corporate Communications Manager for Rolls Royce North America and shares her automotive career path, aspirations and experience in this enlightening podcast interview.

Karen Vonder Meulen brings more than 15 years of communications and media experience to Rolls-Royce. She joined BMW North America in 1998, where she was the Marketing, Events, Sports and Cultural Communications Manager. In this role she was responsible for media relations and communications strategy for a wide range of projects and initiatives, including the development of the company’s arts and culture program.

In her new position, Vonder Meulen is responsible for Rolls-Royce corporate communications across the United States, Canada and Mexico. She will be located at the company’s North American headquarters at Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

Patty is responsible for overall brand management for Shell Rotella^®, Shell Rimula^® and Pennzoil Long-Life^® products. Her duties include managing all advertising, public relations, promotions, tradeshows, research, event marketing and racing sponsorship needs.

Prior to joining Shell, Patty was a Partner and an Account Director on the agency side for Shell’s advertising agency of record working for 10 years on the Shell lubricants business. Patty oversaw strategic and tactical planning, market analysis, budget management, broadcast and print production, promotions, tradeshow marketing, direct marketing and integrated communications.

Patty holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech Communications and Journalism from Texas A&M University. She is currently a member of the Houston Advertising Federation.

For more information and consumer tips on oil and gas products go to:

Shell Answer Columns

www.Rotella.com

www.Shell.com

About Shell Lubricants

The term ‘Shell Lubricants’ collectively refers to the companies of the Shell Group engaged in the lubricants business. Shell lubricants companies are global leaders in lubricants and operate in approximately 120 countries worldwide. They manufacture and blend products for use in a range of applications from consumer motoring to food processing and heavy industry to commercial transport. The Shell portfolio of top-quality lubricant brands includes Pennzoil^®, Quaker State^®, FormulaShell^®, Shell Tellus^®, Shell Cassida^®, Shell Rotella^® T, Shell Spirax^® and a portfolio of car care products and Jiffy Lube^® services.

Sarah Draley is the Vice President of Marketing and Acquisitions at Rocket City Automotive Group, Inc.

In 2002, eBay Motors invited Sarah Draley to jump start their “Dealer Assistant” program in the Chicago market. Since then, she has assisted hundreds of dealerships throughout the United States sell vehicles on eBay Motors. In early 2007, her second company, SODAauctions.com, was acquired by the Rocket City Automotive Group, Inc. (RCAU), holding company for CompleteAuto.com. Ms. Draley joined the RocketCity team as Vice President of Marketing and Acquisitions.

Sarah has earned the reputation as an expert on how to buy and sell on eBay Motors. She provides extensive training to dealerships and private parties on how to approach the “world’s largest online marketplace” with confidence and success. Her podcast will give you tips on how to buy, sell, and traverse the online vehicle auction world.

Her tips will help you buy smartly, sell your vehicle safely and gain eBay Motors savvy!

You can visit Complete Auto at www.CompleteAuto.com

You can see Sarah Draley's full bio here .

Mary Aichlmayr is managing editor of Tire Review magazine, a business publication read by more than 30,000 independent tire dealers in North America.

Tire Review is dedicated to the success of tire dealers serving the passenger, commercial, agricultural, specialty and off-the-road tire markets. Mary writes several feature articles for the monthly magazine as well as a regular column that focuses on business operations and management strategy. She also manages the Tire Review Web site.

Mary will be sharing tips on tire safety, including checking your tire pressure and making sure your tread is sufficient. Aren't those sidewall measurements a mystery? Well, not any longer with Mary’s help. She will tell you how to easily read the sidewall of your tire!

You can visit Tire Review at www.tirereview.com

You can see Mary Aichlmayr's full bio here.

Heather Conary is a founding partner of Illumination Design Creative Services, based out of Orrington, Maine. She also works in communications at Downeast Toyota-Scion-Buick in Brewer, Maine.

Heather is currently attending the University of Maine’s Orono campus, working towards a Bachelors degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing.

Heather has published articles in AutoSuccess Magazine, an automotive trade publication, as well as online at SitePoint and SEOChat as well as AskPatty.com! Heather brings her marketing experience, professional knowledge, and her willingness to learn and adapt to Women's Automotive Association International, and serves us as the Director of Women Dealer Relations.

Heather will share tips on how to make the most of your private=party sale, from the cleaning to the price negotiation. Her tips will take you through the entire process and take the guess work out of selling your car on your own. She will even provide a resource for printable checklists to help you even more!

You can visit ID Communications at www.illuminationdesign.com.

See Heather Conary's full bio here.

Kim Walker is Owner and Marketing Director of Peak Automotive, an independent auto shop in Apex, North Carolina. Recently Peak Automotive was selected by Motor Age Magazine as one of the Top Ten Shops in America and is recognized as “The Most Female Friendly Shop in the Triangle,” which consists of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.

One of Kim’s favorite quotes is “Those who never risk going too far never know how far they can go.” Kim has taken her career from that of an Elementary School Counselor to becoming fully involved in the day to day operations and marketing of their family business, Peak Automotive.

Kim will share tips and background on pre-purchase inspections. When you are ready to purchase a used vehicle, you should definitely get a pre-purchase inspection on the vehicle. Kim will offer advice on what to do before you buy and what to make sure you to look for before you make a purchasing decision!

Be educated and be safe! Get your pre-purchase inspection!

You can visit Peak Automotive at www.peakautomotive.com .

See Kim Walker's full bio here.

Lori Johnson, Owner and Instructor of Ladies, Start Your Engines!, automotive classes for women, will offer advice and step-by-step guidelines for proper engine fluid maintenance. She will go over oil and coolant and what they do and how to maintain them in order to stretch the life of your vehicle.

Lori has 7 years experience as an automotive technician and a new car service manager for a Honda dealership and has prepared test preparation guides for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

Ms. Johnson holds professional licenses and certifications in a number of areas including Air Conditioning Refrigerant, Pennsylvania Emissions Inspection and Pennsylvania Safety Inspection and is ASE certified. She is a qualified Motorcycle Safety Instructor and is a Pennsylvania State Inspection instructor.

Lori earned a certification in Automotive Technology from Pennco Tech and in Client Server Technology from Penn State University. She has an A.A.S. degree in Automotive Technology and is currently pursuing a B.A. in Women's Studies at Temple University.

To find out more about Lori’s classes, go to www.ladiesstartyourengines.net

Go here for a complete bio on Lori Johnson

Marti Barletta, CEO and Founder of The TrendSight Group, a consultancy specializing in marketing to women, will offer information and tips on how to market and sell to women correctly and successfully. She will bring you insight into the woman's mind during the sales process, as well as share some personal experiences and stories to highlight the most successful sales and marketing techniques for women.

Barletta, author of Marketing to Women, and co-author with Tom Peters of Trends is a recognized authority on building marketing, sales, recruiting and retention results through better communications with women. Her third book, PrimeTime Women: How to Win the Hearts, Minds, and Business of Boomer Big Spenders, which was released in January 2007, focuses on the golden bulls-eye of target marketing, PrimeTime Women™.

Marti's passion is figuring out what women want and showing her clients how to grow their business by boosting their appeal to the world’s biggest spenders, women.

Marti combines gender expertise, marketing experience and a lively sense of humor. I think you’ll agree that she delivers eye-opening insights and practical “how to” pointers that you’ll find enlightening, entertaining and easy to apply.

You can learn more about Marti and Marketing to Women at www.trendsight.com.

Jenny Trostel, President and Owner of Saab of Baltimore (a Female Friendly dealer), will give you tips on financing a vehicle, leasing a vehicle, new car warranties and gap insurance. She will give you pointers on the steps you should take to know what vehicle price is best for you and how to know if you should lease or buy.

When Jenny was learning to drive, her father told her, “if you are going to drive them, you need to know how to fix them.” Jenny spent a summer working on cars and working in the family business. In May, 1999, Jenny opened Hunt Valley Saab with 2 business partners. In October, 2004, Jenny purchased the ownership from her 2 partners and In March 2006, the business changed its name to Saab of Baltimore.

Click here for a complete bio on Jenny Trostel.

Amy Mattinat, author of “How To Buy A Great Used Car”, will give you advice and helpful tips on how to shop for, inspect, test drive, and negotiate the sale of a used car. Amy will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to create a budget for your purchase and how to factor in insurance and warranties when you are looking for that perfect vehicle.

Amy Mattinat has written both newspaper and magazine columns on automotive repairs, maintenance, car care and safety. After selling used cars for 6 years, she penned her easy-to-use manual, “How To Buy A Great Used Car,” available at www.usedcarexperts.com.

Click here for a complete bio on Amy Mattinat .