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NAFA News

SAVE on the 2009 I&E
April 25-28 at the New Orleans Memorial Convention Center

I&E registraion is now open! NAFA is giving attendees the chance to not only register early, but SAVE while doing so! If you register by Dec. 31, 2008, you can save $100 with a limited-time discount offer.

To register online click here.

To download a registration form click here.  

www.nafaiande.org 

There's so much happening at I&E in 2009 that we've created its own Web site!

We're pleased to announce the launch of NAFA's 2009 Institute & Expo Web site! This user-friendly, cutting-edge Web site contains all the information you will need regarding this year's I&E, to be held in New Orleans. Now you can browse effortlessly through pages of vital I&E information while experiencing a touch of that "N'awlins" feeling.

"NAFA's Institute & Expo is the fleet conference that offers premier training and educational programs for all fleet managers, whether your fleet is small or large, government or commercial, owned or leased, domestic or international," said Patti Earley, CAFM, chair of NAFA's I&E Curriculum Committee. "No matter if you are just starting out as a fleet manager or have been in the industry for decades, NAFA's I&E has something for you. With 50 courses to choose from offering 65 hours of training and professional development and the largest expo in the fleet industry, the I&E is a 'must attend' event for fleet professionals."

While registering, check out the savvy features on our new Web site, including:

• Dedicated areas for Attendees, Exhibitors and Sponsors.
• A "What's New" page keeping you updated with the latest I&E information, news and events
• Information on hotel accommodations, reservations and travel logistics
• Essential "inside" New Orleans tips such as buying tickets for Jazz Fest, local restaurants, things to do, traveling around the city, coupons, maps and more
• Info on participation in NAFA's Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Project
• Plus so much more!

"This year's I&E in New Orleans will be an event that all fleet professionals must attend. New Orleans is one of the most exciting cities in the world. Where else could you go to eat the most delicious food, listen to a variety of live music, and attend the most valuable education event for fleet professionals," said Mike C. Camnetar, CAFM, chair of NAFA's I&E Arrangements Committee.

Be Proactive!
Book Your Hotel Now!

New Orleans' annual Jazz Fest occurs the same time as the 2009 I&E so make sure to book early, just in case! For hotel information, online reservations and forms, visit the Hotel and Travel page on our new Web site.

Early hotel reservations can be made through NAFA's I&E Web site at www.NAFAIandE.org. The New Orleans Hilton Riverside will serve as the headquarters hotel and registrants are encouraged to make their hotel reservations early, as the I&E takes place the same time as New Orleans' famous Jazz Fest.

The Affiliate Committee convened in New Orleans at the October Board of Governors meeting to begin planning for the Grand Celebration. The Grand Celebration is put on by the Manufacturers and Affiliates at each NAFA I&E. This year will take place in New Orleans on April 26, 2009.

Graeme Maxton was chosen to deliver this year's keynote address from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m on April 26, 2009. If you've watched CNN or CNBC, you may be familiar with Maxton, a writer and presenter who specializes in Asian business and economics as well as the world's auto industry.

Bottom line, neither event would be possible without generous affiliate sponsorships. The committee, in conjunction with Naylor, LLC, will be contacting affiliates for contributions, which can translate into a valuable benefit for your company's via exposure to both NAFA members and to your customers who attend the conference. It is truly a win/win for all involved. The Affiliate Committee looks forward to your participation!

If you have questions after being contacted, please reach out to John Helman, chair of the Affiliates Committee, at jhelman@nagyfleetnet.com. For more detailed information on the Grand Celebration, keynote speaker and sponsoring, please see this month's Affiliate News Bulletin by clicking here.

I&E is only five months away, but you still have time to secure a prime location at the largest fleet management event under one roof anywhere! To connect with buyers at all levels – from corporate and public service fleet managers to fleet maintenance managers – exhibit at NAFA 2009 Institute & Expo.

Here are the forms you will need to reserve your booth space today:

2009 NAFA Institute & Expo Floor Plan
2009 NAFA I & E Exhibit Space Application
Look at the vendors already signed up!

To reserve your booth or request more information, contact Mark Miller at 703-934-4700, ext. 1107, or exhibits@nafa.org.

NAFA INSTITUTE & EXPO IS THE MARKETPLACE THAT MATTERS MOST!

• Access to the best prospects for your products in all industry segments.
• Networking opportunities with your current customers, potential buyers and industry leaders. Conference programming that draws buyers.
• Complimentary registrations (one conference and three exhibitors per every 100 square feet).
• Listings in the Official Show Guide - which acts as a year-long buyers guide for attendees - as well as online.
• Join the Green Zone to showcase your "green" product or service, at no extra cost!

Become an I&E Sponsor Today! I&E sponsorship packages are designed with maximum return on investment in mind. We have designed valuable sponsorship packages that consider budgets of all sizes. From pre-event marketing exposure to extensive on-site visibility to post-event press coverage and extensive online visibility, sponsoring NAFA's 2009 Institute & Expo is the ideal way to reach the largest gathering of fleet managers this year. Take advantage of the networking opportunities – the I&E is a great place to not only find new customers, but also build long-standing relationships.

Become a sponsor! Contact Mark Miller at (703) 934-4700, ext. 1107, or exhibits@nafa.org.

It's not often you can share a celebration, but Alfred Cavalli and Michael J. Flanagan, who live hundreds of miles apart, do share a common bond. Flanagan celebrated his 40th year with NAFA and Cavalli celebrated his 50th year. Both men have many stories to tell, but it's the story of how these two professionals met decades ago that's most captivating. 

Cavalli, celebrating his 50th anniversary with NAFA, met Flanagan more than 40 years ago while they worked together at CIT Service Leasing.  Cavalli already had years of fleet experience under his belt as a partner at J & A Automotive Service in Brooklyn and as manager of the Car Control Department at Universal CIT Credit Corp. When the two met, Cavalli was a manager at Corp Fleet, overseeing some 2,200 company owned vehicles, and was later elected assistant VP of client services. 

Flanagan was fresh out of the Marines and a newlywed, eager to take a position at CIT Service Leasing in operations, purchasing, used vehicle sales and client services.

"Those jobs were a great learning process and got me transferred to the CIT Chicago office to sell and service our clients and fleet managers in nine states," Flanagan said.

Both men climbed the ladder professionally over the years. Cavalli took an offer as manager of sales services for Avis Car Leasing until his retirement in 1989.  In 1978, Flanagan accepted a job with Gambles C&M Leasing as VP of the Eastern Region. They merged with LEASEWAY and became part of Dart & Kraft Financial and eventually became GE Capital's first acquisition into the fleet management industry. In 1991, Flanagan accepted a position as VP of the Eastern Region with Ford's fleet companies - USFL (which bought CIT Service Leasing) and Associates - both of which were acquired by GE in 1998.

Though they relocated and transferred companies over the years – Cavalli and Flanagan always shared interest in NAFA. Cavalli joined the association in 1958, served as president from 1969-1971 and served in many positions including trustee, NY chapter chair and general conference chair.  He received NAFA's "Distinguished Service Award" and was awarded Honorary Membership by the NY Chapter & NAFA. 

Cavalli was part of a group of fleet managers "who helped pioneer the science of fleet management," according to Automotive Fleet magazine.  His career highlights include being named Automotive Fleet's Manager of the Year and his recent induction into the Fleet Hall of Fame. Cavalli was a frequent speaker at NAFA, AMA seminars and other industry related organizations. He continues to serve as Automotive Fleet's Field Editor and remains involved in industry developments.

Flanagan joined NAFA in 1968 and served as a member of the National Affiliates Committee (1992-1993), chair of the National Affiliate Committee (1993-1995), member of the National Manufactures Advisory Board (1993-1994) and chair of the New York Chapter Membership Committee (1993-1997). Flanagan also served as president of AFLA in 1993.

"I'm blessed to be part of NAFA," Flanagan said. "This association gave me the information I needed and I've met some interesting and inspiring people over the years."

NAFA congratulates both men for reaching a membership milestone!

• LeasePlan USA, a leader in vehicle leasing and fleet management solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of Jim Brooks to sales vice president, East region. He will report directly to Buck Whitman, national sales vice president. In this position, Brooks will focus his sales efforts on fleets with  between 50 and 750 unit potential in his territory, which includes Delaware, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Ohio, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia.
• FLD, Inc. announced the hiring of Keith Zaring as director of business development. In this position, Zaring will focus primarily on outside sales and customer service.

"Fleet department development is one of my key areas of focus," said Zaring. "I've worked extensively with large companies to negotiate fleet deals and developed two complete fleet departments from the ground up. I look forward to using my experience to assist in advancing the FLD brand."

Headline News

Senate Democrats plan to give $25 billion to the Detroit 3 in an effort to save the American auto industry.

"We cannot afford to pull the plug on the manufacturing backbone of rural America," said Sen. Christopher Bond.

The Democrats' plan carves a portion of the $700 billion financial market bailout for the automakers. The bailout does put several conditions in place on companies receiving the loans. These companies must develop and submit a short-term plan detailing how funds will be used and also prohibits excessive risks that may threaten the company and golden parachutes during the term of the loan. Company officials earning more than $250,000 yearly will also be prevented from receiving bonuses.

Some other conditions that may be placed include requiring companies to raise their production of "green" and alternative fuel vehicles as well as enhance their standard fuel efficiency to 40 miles per gallon in 10 years and to 50 miles per gallon by 2020.

The 10-year loans are covered under the same expanded independent oversight required of credit lenders and others covered under the initial $700 billion bailout, and carry an annual interest rate of 5 percent in the first five years.

A bill recently released by House Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank requires auto manufacturers to submit a plan by March 31 on how the money will be used and a long-term plan that includes details on how viability will be sustained. Frank's bill also prohibits bonuses for employees earning more than $200,000 annually, prevents golden parachutes for departing executives and bans any compensation plans that could encourage manipulation of reported earnings.

Ford Motor Company agreed to sell a portion of its stake in Mazda Motor Corp., but the two companies still plan to continue a successful strategic relationship that spans nearly 30 years.

In line with Ford's plan to strengthen its balance sheet and ensure it has resources to implement its product-led transformation plan worldwide, the company said it is reducing its stake in Mazda from 33.4 percent to just more than 13 percent. 
 
Under the agreement, the divestiture of Ford's shares in Mazda will be accomplished both through the sale of shares to Mazda and the sale of shares to a group of Mazda's strategic business partners. The sales of the Mazda shares will net Ford approximately $540 million.

"The sale of Mazda shares by our partner, Ford, will not result in any change in Mazda's strategic direction and we will continue to accelerate our product-led brand improvement and cost innovation initiatives," said Mazda Chairman, President and CEO Hisakazu Imaki. "We will continue our strategic relationship through our ongoing joint ventures with Ford, as well as the sharing of platforms and powertrains."

Vehicle owners across the nation can be instantly informed of a safety recall under a new automated alert system transmitted free of charge via e-mail or RSS-feeds on personal computers, cell phones or PDA devices.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are about 600 vehicle recalls each year. Historically, one in four motorists ignores these recalls when they are announced. Under the new alert system, consumers can elect to receive all vehicle recalls as they are made public, or personalize the alerts to specific vehicles. To start receiving NHTSA's recall alerts, go to  www.safercar.gov and select the "Email recall notifications" option.

FleetCards USA, which acts as a trusted adviser in matching fleet cards to small and medium-sized businesses, announced the launch of a new trends advisory council called FleetCards TrendWatch.

"Our new FleetCards TrendWatch council will examine the influences and effects that most impact the American fleet card business and will serve as a valuable resource for our industry," said Mike Noles, president of FleetCards USA.

The new FleetCards TrendWatch council, made up of seasoned industry experts, will complement FleetCards USA's knowledge base by identifying new and upcoming trends, articulating them to the industry and folding its learnings into FleetCards USA's key offerings.

"With their strategic vision, this council will delve deeper into the issues facing our industry today, in order to provide an all-encompassing approach to developing further insights that can help fleet card programs serve their customers," said Noles.

Ford Motor Company has created MyKey, a new technology that will help fleet owners encourage safer driving behavior by their vehicle operators.

The feature, which will debut on several popular Ford fleet vehicles in mid-2009 at no additional cost, allows fleet customers to limit top speed and radio volume, set speed warnings, encourage safety belt usage and assure important safety systems remain engaged to help protect drivers and vehicle inventories.

"MyKey gives fleet owners peace of mind by providing a simple, affordable way to help reinforce safe driving policies and manage at-risk drivers," said Gerry Koss, Ford's fleet marketing manager. "For fleet owners, safe driving behavior by vehicle operators is a bottom-line issue."

General Motors Corp. announced it is taking further actions to improve liquidity and reduce structural cost in response to deteriorating global economic conditions, tight credit market conditions and a rapid retraction of sales in the auto industry.

• GM's assets are being assessed for potential sale, include the Hummer vehicle business and brand and the ACDelco all-makes aftermarket parts business.
• Strategic options are being evaluated for the technical and manufacturing center in Strasbourg, France. 
• GM is taking further actions to improve liquidity by an incremental $5 billion by the end of 2009.
• Steps are being taken to reduce structural cost by an additional $1.5 billion. Actions being employed include further reductions in sales promotion spending, further reductions in support of dealer network activities and channel consolidations and further revisions to production scheduling reflective of depressed industry conditions.
• GM will re-rate operations at a number of operations in North America to scale back production, beginning in the first quarter of 2009.
• Salaried employees will not receive enhanced variable pay (incentive compensation) in 2009 for the 2008 performance period. 
• GM suspended the company match for the stock savings (401k) plan in the U.S., effective Nov. 1, 2008, and matching contributions for tuition assistance and other reimbursement programs are being suspended effective Jan. 1, 2009
• The automaker has recently explored the possibility of a strategic acquisition. 

GM also expects further reductions in engineering expense due to the aforementioned delays in capital spending. A number of working capital improvements, totaling approximately $500 million, are also being taken, including additional inventory reductions with an emphasis on further cuts in components, buffer stocks and finished goods.

Mobileye Inc.'s driving assistance product, AWS-4000, is a camera-based safety feature that includes a lane departure warning (LDW) system, a forward collision warning (FCW) system and a headway monitoring and warning (HMW) system.  It's the first of its kind to offer all three accident-prevention warnings in one unit.

"There's a huge demand for passenger cars and delivery trucks. We're mostly seeing the need (for technology like this) in fleets," said Skip Kinford, CEO of Mobileye Inc. "The AWS-4000 has the ability to give real-time warning and reporting back, to see the habits of the driver. It allows the (fleet) manager to see the occurrence of events."

C.R. England, the nation's largest refrigerated trucking company, was chosen to use the AWS-4000 during a pilot program. The company plans to equip more than 3,500 trucks with the AWS-4000 in coming months.

"Mobileye applauds C.R. England's commitment to reducing driver distraction and making roads safer for all drivers," Kinford said. "The long hours truck drivers spend behind the wheel make them a natural fit for Mobileye's driver safety technologies."

Mobileye AWS includes a smart camera located on the front windshield inside the vehicle and utilizes Mobileye's advanced vision technologies to detect and measure the distance to vehicles and to lane markings, providing the driver with timely alerts. The system also alerts fleet managers when their drivers are involved in dangerous motor vehicle situations.

GE Capital Solutions Fleet Services has been named the established company recipient of the Technology Services Award at the 2008 Tekne Awards for its mobile resource and asset use/management via a telematics solution. The Technology Services Award recognizes companies that succeed in innovative development and/or delivery of technology services, including consulting services, service providers and software as a service.

GE's telematics solution was chosen based on its proven demonstration of an integrated resource that provides visibility into the location and use of fleet vehicles to identify factors affecting operating costs and service delivery. As the evolving economic environment forces companies to look more seriously into telematics and optimization solutions, GE is providing customers with solutions that deliver significant results, including consistent double-digit improvements in reduced accident rates, fuel efficiency, asset optimization, customer retention and reduced carbon emissions.

"Our telematics solution gives our customers who rely on vehicles to run their business the line of sight they need to optimize their business operational performance. Now more than ever, telematics solutions give our customers the competitive advantage," said Stephen Ulanoski, general manager of GE Capital Solutions Fleet Services Telematics Solutions program.

The Tekne Awards, presented by the Minnesota High Tech Association (MHTA) in partnership with Enterprise Minnesota and LifeScience Alley, annually recognize Minnesota's leading technology users and innovators. 

SPOTLIGHT ON LEGISLATION

Trial Run Begins for the Canada Line

On Nov. 12, British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell, along with provincial Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Kevin Falcon, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Hon. James Moore - on behalf of the Hon. John Baird, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities - were the first passengers on a trial run of the Canada Line from Bridgeport Station to the Vancouver International Airport Station.

Premier Campbell highlighted that the Canada Line will be a fast, convenient and inexpensive travel option for commuters and visitors, carrying riders from the airport or Richmond to downtown Vancouver in just 25 minutes.  That is about half the average time it takes to commute the same distance by car.  It is estimated that by 2010 the Canada Line will see 100,000 riders every day, increasing to close to 125,000 per day by 2021.

Minister Moore reiterated the federal government's commitment to working with provincial and municipal partners. The Canada Line will play a significant role in easing traffic congestion, cutting commute times and reducing greenhouse gas emissions and clearing the air for residents and visitors to the Greater Vancouver area. The Canada Line is scheduled for completion in 2009.

School Buses to install Mobile Traffic Cameras

A Winnipeg school board has taken a step to help stop careless drivers from passing stopped school buses. Announced in November, the Seven Oaks School Board will be installing exterior cameras to record the license plate, make of vehicle and even the hair colour of any driver who passes a school bus illegally.

The school board is the first in Canada to make this move. Experts in the transportation field have highlighted that cameras will become more common on the roads as the technology continues to improve and prices fall.

The board said it was prompted to equip eight of its 37 buses on the fleet with digital cameras after receiving numerous complaints from bus drivers about cars that consistently sped past stopped buses while children were getting on or off.

ENVIRONMENTAL UPDATE

The OSU/A&M Board of Regents approved a request for Oklahoma State University's Transportation Services to purchase 10 alternative fuel sedans in the estimated amount of $160,500. 

The new vehicles, all 2009 Chevrolet Impalas with the compressed natural gas (CNG) conversion option, will be used locally and for trips ranging under 250 miles, according to NAFA Member, Chris Hoffman, CAFM, manager of Transportation Services.  According to Hoffman, the cost of compressed natural gas is currently about $1.30 to $1.40 a gallon.

In addition, OSU is working on plans to build a compressed natural gas fueling station on campus.  The university also is exploring the purchase of CNG busses for Stillwater campus.  OSU also plans to expand its CNG fleet by evaluating all new vehicle purchases and replacing vehicles that can potentially utilize compressed natural gas.  The university currently has no hybrid vehicles, Hoffman said, but he expects OSU to have some in the future.

The electrical car can comfortably seat four, and has a small trunk space. With a top speed of 30-35 mph, it can run for about six hours on a six-hour recharge using a regular 110 extension cord.

EPA Region 7 has developed a user-friendly manual that identifies environmental regulatory rules and requirements for the construction and operation of biodiesel production facilities.

Region 7 Administrator John B. Askew said, "We are taking steps to provide useful tools to help biodiesel facilities comply with environmental regulations.  The manual serves as a road map of federal environmental information.  EPA is addressing our nation's growing energy demand in a way that supports our goals for a clean environment, supports farmers and rural America, and supports greater energy security."

The Midwestern states are active on America's renewable fuels frontier.  Through the long-term efforts of the agricultural and biodiesel community, rural residents are seeing growth in the construction of biodiesel plants and the supporting infrastructure.

The manual provides practical examples to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.  A contact directory of key federal and state officials is included in the manual.  EPA Region 7 staff members are available to answer questions about the applicability of environmental requirements to renewable fuel facilities.

An EPA Region 7 biofuels team of engineers, scientists, and environmental protection specialists developed the manual after seeking input from a variety of stakeholders.

Under a modified and extended operating agreement, the City of Burbank, California has opted to expand its compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling partnership with Clean Energy Fuels Corp. and extend it through 2022. As part of the modification, Clean Energy will design, build, and operate a new state-of-the-art CNG time-fill station at the City's Public Works Yard to support a growing fleet of CNG-powered refuse trucks.

"We are pleased to continue and extend our successful CNG fuel relationship with the City of Burbank, where we have provided reliable, cost-effective, environmentally-friendly fueling services for the last six years," said James Harger, Clean Energy Senior Vice President. Clean Energy built Burbank's first public access CNG station in 2002, and has offered operating and retail fueling services onsite since its opening.

"We look forward to the deployment of even more CNG-powered fleet and service vehicles in the City of Burbank, including more CNG refuse trucks," Harger said. "This effort will significantly support the City's efforts to meet its sustainability goals and reduce its carbon footprint, while enhancing both the health and environmental benefits of all its citizens."

Green Car Journal has announced the finalists for its annual Green Car of the Year award for 2009. The award recognizes new model vehicles that provide real answers for new car buyers looking for a personal stake in lessening environmental impact.

The five finalists for the award are: BMW 335d, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Saturn Vue 2 Mode Hybrid, smart for two, and the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. On Nov. 20, the winner will be unveiled at a press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The finalists are currently featured on GreenCar.com.

Vehicles using all types of technologies, fuels, and powerplants are eligible for the Green Car of the Year program. To qualify for consideration as a nominee, a vehicle must exhibit characteristics that substantially raise the bar in environmental performance and be in production by January 1 of the award year. Plus, a potential nominee must be driven by Green Car Journal to allow experiencing driving dynamics first-hand.

Verizon will add another 100 hybrid sedans to its motor vehicle fleet in metropolitan areas across seven states and Washington D.C., conserving thousands of gallons of gas and helping to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases.

Verizon began replacing gasoline-powered sedans with hybrids at the end of 2007 by introducing 100 of them to its fleet. By doubling to 200 the number of hybrids, Verizon expects to conserve an additional 16,000 gallons of fuel and cut greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 1.4 metric tons per vehicle annually.  The hybrids will be used in California, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington, D.C. In addition to the hybrid sedans, the company has been using 13 specially designed hybrid service-vans in Maryland and Texas since 2007. 

The Village of Sherburne, NY recently received delivery of a new Prius through a partnership with the New York Power Authority (NYPA) to encourage the use of hybrid-electric vehicles.  The joint-venture involving hybrid-electric vehicles is part of an agreement NYPA has with its municipal electric and rural cooperative customers, like Sherburne, to promote the use of clean electric transportation alternatives.

"With gas costs high and the New York Power Authority offer of zero-percent interest for the Prius hybrid, the payback period is very short. Every mile we put on the Prius and take away from a pick-up truck is saving energy and money," said William Acee, mayor, Village of Sherburne.

The Village of Sherburne plans to assign the Prius for official use related to the operations of the Sherburne Electric Light Department and for use by municipal officials on village business.

Since the early 1990s, NYPA has put into service almost 1,000 electric and hybrid-electric vehicles in its own fleet and the fleets of its customers throughout New York State.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is the newest partner in Chevrolet's Project Driveway, the first and largest market test designed to speed hydrogen powered fuel cell electric vehicles to the consumer marketplace.

Over the next six months, the USDA will be using a Chevrolet Equinox Fuel Cell vehicle to transport top leadership and Congressional Relations Staff on official business on Capitol Hill – petroleum free – while providing valuable real-world performance feedback to GM. The vehicle is fueled with hydrogen and zero greenhouse gases are released. The only tailpipe emission is clean water vapor. The partnership with the USDA is part of the Department of Energy's (DOE) hydrogen and fuel cell research, development, and demonstration efforts.

Since Project Driveway's launch in November of 2007, it has put more than 100 Equinox fuel cell vehicles in the hands of business partners, government agencies, members of the media, celebrities, and the general public who have volunteered through the Chevy.com web site. To date, more than 3,200 test drives of varying lengths have been conducted. Currently, the program has launched in Los Angeles, metropolitan New York, and Washington, D.C., with further deployments in Europe and Asia later this year.

NAFA Online Store

Discount! Order now and SAVE!
Save up to 25% on NAFA's RFP Guide:

Request for Proposals Guide

November Sale! Order Request for Proposals Guide by Nov. 30, 2008, and save 25 percent off regular member price. Instructional CD-ROM provides you with step-by-step instruction for preparing an effective RFP. Save time by directly accessing numerous reference documents and samples, including Process Flow and Statement of Work. The CD-ROM format provides fast and easy-to-use navigation and direct access to numerous samples, reference documents and a glossary. Save time by using shortcuts and quick links to specific areas of interest such as Process Flow and Statement of Work samples. A valuable tool for experienced RFP writers and novices alike. Order Today!

Driver Transportation Options
Softback & e-Download

Available in two formats!
This 154-page compilation of information was developed for a manager's review and evaluation of providing business transportation to employees. Topics include: reasons to reject driver reimbursement, resale losses, trends among commercial fleets and why the federal government should discourage employee reimbursement.

Order your copy today!

Get the most from your NAFA membership by taking advantage of substantial discounts on all products in our online store. These discounts are available to members and ffiliates only. To download a catalog of current products, click here.

Career Corner

Space is provided in each issue of FleetFOCUS for companies and organizations to advertise career opportunities in the fleet industry. This space also allows members to market themselves to potential employers. Listings must be 200 words or fewer. Links to complete job descriptions on the company's own Web site are suggested. Please note all of the materials a candidate must supply in order to be considered for the position (e.g., resume, salary history, municipal application, etc.). To take advantage of this service, e-mail your ad to Patrick McCarren at pmccarren@nafa.org.

New Job Postings This Issue

Fleet Maintenance Manager - Los Angeles, CA

Facilities Operations Manager (Associate Director 1) – New Jersey City University - Jersey City, NJ
Fleet Safety Manager - East Hanover, NJ

Job Wanted Listings Provide New Networking Opportunities!

Are you looking for a new job or a motivated, hard-working employee? NAFA's Job Wanted Listings is a new and exclusive benefit for members and affiliates who are looking to make a career change. At the most recent board meeting, the trustees approved this new opportunity to assist both NAFA members and NAFA affiliates with career changes. PLEASE NOTE: This new and exclusive benefit is FREE! To take advantage of this service, e-mail your Job Wanted posting to Patrick McCarren at pmccarren@nafa.org.

Resume Bank

NAFA is going one more step to help those in the industry gain employment. For a small fee, NAFA will send resumes to any prospective employer who places an ad on the Career Network Section of the NAFA website.  Employers will be provided with new, up-to-date resumes that fit the job for a small cost.

There is still no charge to submit a resume to the Resume Bank. To be included in the Resume Bank, please send a current version of your resume to Maureen Smith, NAFA, Inc., 125 Village Blvd., Suite 200, Princeton, NJ 08540, or fax it to 609-452-8004. Resumes can also be e-mailed to Maureen Smith at msmith@nafa.org. Also, if you would like to include a generic cover letter to be sent to potential employers, please include that as part of your resume. Make sure your home address, home phone or cell phone and personal email address are included on your resume. Potential employers will contact you directly.  NAFA has a number of fleet-related job openings on the Jobs Wanted/Available page (click here).

Chapter Highlights

Industry Calendar
Click here

November is a busy month for NAFA Chapters! Chapter meetings will take place, including:

 

Nov. 19, 2008
Wisconsin Chapter Meeting - Upstream Vehicle Remarketing
Location: Western Lakes Golf Club, Pewaukee, WI
Contact: Mary Daniel, mdaniel@sssf.org, P: 414.385.5215, F: 414.384.1950.
RSVP by Nov. 7, 2008.

Nov. 20, 2008
Arizona Chapter Meeting & Golf Outing
Location: GE Capital Solutions Facility, Scottsdale, AZ
Contact: Mark Manney, mark@nationalautomart.com, P: 602.484.7055
RSVP by Nov. 17.

Nov. 20, 2008
Greater Hartford Chapter Meeting
Location: Hartford Convention Center, Hartford, CT
Contact: Bridget Clark, P: 860.285.5931 or 954.660.8125 

Nov. 20, 2008
Atlanta Chapter: Meeting
Location: Manheim Drive, Stockbridge, GA
Contact: Patsy Brownson, P: 678.645.0590, patsy.brownson@coxinc.com

Nov. 24, 2008
Pacific Southwest Chapter - Los Angeles Auto Show Meeting
Location: Los Angeles Convention Center
Contact: Leonie von Halle, lvonnhall@csc.com.
RSVP by Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2008 .

ADTS' Phil Moser Addresses "Safe Driving for Green Initiatives" at
NAFA Philadelphia Chapter Meeting

Phil Moser, national sales manager of Advanced Driver Training Services (ADTS), will address the December meeting and luncheon of the Philadelphia chapter of the National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA). The meeting will take place at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 3 at Maggiano's Restaurant in King of Prussia, Pa.

Moser's presentation, "Safe Driving for Green Initiatives," will focus on driving techniques and behaviors that can accomplish two key goals: keeping business drivers safer behind the wheel and reducing their employers' costs through lower gas consumption. He will review specific approaches that may save fleets as much as 30-35 percent on fuel costs, while also cutting harmful emissions and reducing an organization's carbon footprint. 

A NAFA affiliate member since 1999, Moser received the organization's Outstanding Chapter Service Award earlier this year. He is an active member of the Philadelphia and New Jersey chapters of NAFA.

ADTS recently introduced a Driving Green training course that covers a range of topics affecting gas mileage, including aggressive driving, idling, vehicle packing, trip planning and vehicle maintenance. Through a combination of video, audio, graphics and animation, the course makes the content engaging and memorable, with a test at the conclusion of the training to measure drivers' retention.

ADTS is a leading provider of driver safety training services and products that include a full-day Driver Skill Enhancement program (combining classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction), one-to-one training for high-risk drivers, seminars, post-incident coaching and other consulting services, online training and the OnRoads bimonthly driver safety magazine. For more details, visit www.adtsweb.com or contact the company at 1-800-486-ADTS or info@adtsweb.com.

Membership Benefits You

Members Benefit You:
Welcome New Members and Affiliates Who Joined in October!

Which new colleagues and suppliers might you benefit from? Welcome new NAFA Members and new NAFA Affiliates. Click here to view.

To date, NAFA's 2008 Membership Drive has strengthened the membership roster by adding more than 60 professionals to our ranks. With the successful work of 50-plus NAFA members and affiliates, the drive has brought in fleet professionals from a wide variety of companies and organizations since June. Companies and organizations with new NAFA members include The University of Texas at Austin, the Thompson Machinery Commerce Corporation, the Southern California Edison Company, City of Albany, The Walt Disney Company and the Cordis Corporation.

You still have time to get the word out about NAFA! We encourage our members and affiliates to share the benefits of NAFA with friends and colleagues and invite them to join. Let them know the value of membership and how we're an organization of shared ideas all about fleet!

Those participating in the 2008 Membership Drive between now and Nov. 30 will earn a $10 coupon good toward any NAFA product – as long as your name is in the SPONSOR line on a new application. You will also have a chance to win a free registration to the 2009 Institute & Expo in New Orleans, April 25-28, 2009. Up to five lucky participants will win this prize!

For each new fleet manager a NAFA member recruits between June 1 and Nov. 30, 2008, one ticket will be entered in a drawing to win a free I&E registration. Be a promoter and spread the word! To get Membership Drive details, download applications and review ideas on how to get started, visit www.nafa.org/2008drive. Winners will be announced in January 2009, and up to five free registrations will be awarded.

Have you been promoted? Is your company moving? Did you get a new job? Are you retiring? Remember to notify NAFA about these and other changes.

If you are retiring, please contact NAFA, as you may be eligible to become a NAFA alumnus and stay in touch with your NAFA colleagues and friends.

There are two easy ways to both help your colleagues keep in touch and make changes to your membership record: 1) click on "My Profile" on the NAFA homepage and submit changes, or 2) e-mail info@nafa.org.

e-Communities offers members the chance to reach colleagues and share ideas when they need to -- anytime, anywhere! These virtual neighborhoods allow members to easily e-mail others within that community with specific fleet questions. As a subscriber to e-Communities, you can:

• View real-time activity between other subscribed members within the group(s) you subscribe to.
• Share your knowledge and assist a fellow member in need, access lists of subscribers for each group and access a history of inquiries posted to e-Communities.
• Some of the topics include alternative fuels, disaster relief, fleet maintenance, global fleet, law enforcement and many more! Come be a part of NAFA's community!

To visit e-Communities, please click here.

Free and open to all, NAFA's Fleet Technician Service Resource Web site is designed to assist fleet managers in identifying the educational resources needed by service technicians. Because NAFA recognizes, encourages and promotes the certification of automotive service professionals by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), the Web site is organized according to ASE's testing categories.
 
By clicking on each of the categories, you or your service technicians can see a selection of the most useful books, videos, CDs and other resources designed to prepare technicians for the ASE test in that category. ASE measures the skills of automotive service professionals through its national certification program, through which ASE-certified technicians prove their technical competence to themselves, to their employers and to their customers.
 
Visit today at www.nafa.org/ase and www.asenafa.org.