Pub. 1 2012 Issue 1

Chairman’s Letter 4 San Diego Dealer C M Y CM MY CY CMY K Dear Dealer Members, A s we focus our attention to the second half of 2012, I believewe can be cautiously optimistic as an industry. Automotive sales have been one of the strongest retail segments of our nation’s economy this year. While past performance is no guarantee of future earnings, the sales momentum of the past two and a half years has been on a steady, upward trend. If you have not already done so, take a few moments and review the 2012 Economic Impact Report you received last month. It is also available on the New Car Dealers Association San Diego County (NCDA) website. Nevertheless, the lessons learned in 2008 and 2009 still apply today.We must remain vigilant with regard to costs, personnel and inventories. That said, record-low interest rates, somewhat less restrictive credit requirements, resumed leasing programs and an aging vehicle fleet should bolster sales through the remainder of this year. As this year’s NCDA Board of Directors Chairman, I look forward to working with my dealer- ship counterparts and the NCDA staff on a wide range of issues. The state legislative session continues in earnest and once again there are bills which could enhance our ability to do business or, if amended poorly, could possibly impose more restrictions. The re-alignment of Assembly, Senate and Congressional districts, an openmayoral election in the City of San Diego and a Presidential election in November will make for a lively political landscape this fall. To the extent you are able, contributing to the NCDA’s PAC has never been more important. Your monthly dues invoice includes a voluntary contribution and I urge you to support this effort. The NCDA’s PAC makes contributions to elected officials who understand the importance of our industry locally as well as to the state. This year, there are several state-level races where there are no incumbents and we have the opportunity to assist those candidates who will support the business community in general and dealership interests in particular. Your contributions to the NCDA PAC will greatly enhance the association’s efforts in this regard. Following on the heels of the November election will be the 2013 San Diego International Auto Show® —Where the Cars are the Stars! The NCDA’s Auto Show team is alr ady actively preparing for this year’s show so look for a preview in the next edition of San Diego Dealer . I’m told there are going to be some extraordinary new features, an expanded Ride & Drive program and enhanced displays at this year’s show. Again, I look forward to serving as Chairman of the Board and working with Dealer Members and the NCDA staff as we move forward through the remainder of 2012 and to this year’s San Diego International Auto Show®. Sincerely, Bill Cumming Cha i rman, NCDA Board of D i rec tors New Car Dealers Association ® San Diego County 10065 Mesa Ridge Court San Diego, CA 92121-2916 Tel: (858) 550-0080 Fax: (858) 550-9537 www.ncda.com NCDA Board of Directors Board Officers Bill Cumming Chairman J.P. Paynter Vice Chairman DavidWolfson Secre tary/Treasurer John Stall Past Chairman Board Members Rick Blakemore Tom Brecht Pamela Burger Ray Burns Paul F. Dyke Jim Fornaca Dave Grundstrom D.J. Heller John McCallan