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Letter to the Editor

Iowa Collision Repair Association Becomes Latest SCRS Affiliate

Though it has existed only for a few months, the ICRA is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by the enthusiasm of Iowa’s collision repairers and vendors, who want to become more informed and increase their industry involvement. The desire for an effective lobbying presence in state government is also strong, as local repairers grapple with such issues as paint capping and the inability to get reimbursement for the tax charged on paint and materials. In the near future, ICRA will be exploring the possibility of hiring a full-time executive director and lobbyist.

“A lot of our shops, especially those in rural areas, need increased representation and exposure to ideas,” explained Jim Thompson, ICRA Chairman. “Our intention is to help give our industry a voice, raise its professional image and provide the information and education necessary to keep our members on top of their business.”

That local collision repair professionals responded positively to that message was indicated by the over 125 individuals that attended the association’s inaugural planning meeting. At that meeting, SCRS Past Chairman Chuck Sulkala and Executive Director Dan Risley gave a presentation that included pointers on what it takes to start, grow and maintain a state association.

“Chuck and I are in the same 20 Group and have known each other a long time, so affiliating with SCRS was a natural evolution,” Thompson said. “They’ve helped us set up the ICRA and have been generous with advice. They gather information on issues that make an immediate impact on us. We needed a national association with clout that provided leadership by example. That’s the definition of SCRS.”

“As a result of working with Jim and other members of the ICRA over the past few months, we’ve been a first-hand witness to their professionalism and dedication to improving the collision repair industry,” stated Risley. “They set lofty goals, tenaciously pursue them, and will add a lot of positive energy and enthusiasm to SCRS that will help us continue to demonstrate that ‘Working Together Is the Most Important Work We Do’.” The repairers in Iowa should benefit greatly from the ICRA and we look forward to seeing the results of their efforts.”

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