VOLUME 81 NUMBER 1 March 2015

Transcription

1 VOLUME 81 NUMBER 1 March 2015 MEMBER AUCTIONEERS ASSOCIATION OF ALBERTA

2 2015 Executive Back Row, Left to Right: Dave Johnson, Frederick Bodnarus, Darrell Domes, Dale Menzak, Pete Conway Front Row, Left to Right: Cody Hayes, John Arnold, Lorraine Klepper, Don Montgomery, Wade Michener Missing Joe Perlich, Jeff Van Wert OFFICE ADDRESS: R.R. #1, Red Deer, Alberta T4N 5E1 Phone: (403) Fax: (403) Website: Editor: Lorraine Klepper

3 Index President s Message Executive Media Release General Meeting Minutes Attachments to Minutes: 1. President s Report Liaison Committee Report Education Committee Report Finance Committee Report AMVIC Report All-Around Competition Summary Jeff Van Wert Bio Joe Perlich Bio Letter from Alberta Transportation Distinguished Service Award Watchdog for Motor Vehicle Industry Misusing Powers Thank You From Sangster Family Deepest Sympathy Convention Highlights Convention Here, There, and Everywhere with Wild Bill R A V E N PRINTING Since 1979 P R LTD 1 HAROLD RAVEN GENERAL MANAGER LYNETTA SOMERS SALES REPRESENTATIVE Bay #1, 4768 Riverside Dr. Red Deer, Alberta T4N 2N7 Phone: Fax: ravenprt@telus.net

4 Message From The President IT S SPRING!!! Wow, what a start to March. The weather is great. I haven t determined yet if it came in like a lamb or lion. I have already seen geese and gophers. Cows are calving and the pastures are starting to become little, slushy lakes. And best of all, I see the newspapers are filled with upcoming auctions. So, it must be spring. I am hearing that prices for equipment are higher than ever. The Canadian dollar is down 20% compared to the American dollar causing a great deal of buying power for our souther neighbours. So, that means the Canadians have to step up their game and compete for product in an inflated market place. The media, as usual, has helped to create somewhat of an uncertain market place. If we believe everything we hear, I think that there is going to be some downsizing and possibly an abundance of recreational toys on the marketplace by late spring or early summer. This may be the year for auction companies to shine. Auctioneers Convention is over. Colin Spencer, Ron Victor, and Dale Menzak did a great job putting this one together. Thanks guys. We also welcome two new directors Joe Perlich and Jeff Van Wert to the board. We are also pleased to announce that, due to efforts of your board and many others, we have gotten Alberta Transportation to reverse their ruling that requires automotive dealers to supply MFA certification with the autos they sell at auction. A letter outlining that decision will be in this edition of the magazine. Please read it carefully. Auction Companies, be sure that the buying public knows that ever automobile you sell is as-is, where-is and to inspect them carefully prior to bidding on them. This battle has been a win for the auction industry as a whole. Whether or not you are a member of the Auctioneers Association of Alberta, this ruling has benefited you as an auctioneer. If you or your company is not a member of the AAA, please join up and/or encourage others to do so. 2

5 Message From The President (con t) The AAA is the only voice you have to lobby our provincial government for changes and protection. On February 24, Wade Michener, Wayne Orsten, Brad Neal, and I were invited to meet with Service Alberta Minister, Stephen Khan, and his deputy ministers at the Alberta Legislator. We discussed a vast array of topics, but most importantly I believe that we have had a real breakthrough in establishing a direct, working relationship with Service Alberta. We have already learned since then that if auction companies want something done, Service Alberta is simply telling them to go through their association. Unless the association is asking the request will not be given any credibility. We have been striving for this level of recognition with the government for years. We may finally be arriving. Your board has a busy year in front of them. We will be examining issues such as statutory declaration requirements, auctioneers bonds, auction company memberships, continuing education for auctioneers and the ability for wholesale auto dealers to sell at public auction, along with several other subjects. If you have any opinions or concerns about anything auction related, please call me and talk to me. I wish each of you have a very successful year in the auction business. Don Montgomery President Auctioneers Association of Alberta For more information, contact: RICK WATTIE - Auctioneer/Instructor Phone: (780) Fax: (780) Toll Free: auction@compusmart.ab.ca 3

6 2015 Executive PRESIDENT Don Montgomery, Blackfalds (403) VICE-PRESIDENT John Arnold, Lethbridge (403) PAST-PRESIDENT John Perlich, Lethbridge (403) SECRETARY-TREASURER Lorraine Klepper, Red Deer (403) DIRECTORS John Arnold, Lethbridge (403) Frederick Bodnarus, Saskatoon (306) Pete Conway, Innisfree (780) Darrell Domes, Calgary (403) Cody Hayes (403) Bill Henke (604) Dave Johnson (403) Dale Menzak, Vegreville (780) Wade Michener, Calgary (403) Don Montgomery, Blackfalds (403) Joe Perlich (403) Jeff Van Wert (403) COMMITTEE AMVIC & Automotive Wayne Orsten Archives Joe Perlich BC Representative Bill Henke Canadian Liaison Pete Conway Finance & Investment John Arnold Education Cody Hayes, Jeff Van Wert Legislative John Arnold, Pete Conway Membership Dave Johnson Surety Ron Sekura Tyro Frederick Bodnarus, Dave Johnson, Jeff Van Wert 2016 Convention John Perlich, Wayne Orsten, Dave Johnson, Cody Hayes 2017 Convention Don Montgomery Webpage Darrell Domes All Around Canadian Ron Victor, Darrell Domes Championships PAST PRESIDENTS 2013 John Perlich 1991 Delton Wolff 1969 Tony Perlich 2012 John Perlich 1990 Delton Wolff 1968 Mike Lawrence 2011 Robert Lind 1989 Catherine Clausen 1967 Garfield Ogilvie 2010 Robert Lind 1988 Wes Spencer 1966 Don H. Hutton 2009 Brad Neal 1987 Wes Spencer 1965 Earl Galvin 2008 Brad Neal 1986 Frank Hall 1964 Walter Kitt 2007 Wayne Orsten 1985 Ron Sim 1963 Vern Scown 2006 Wayne Orsten 1984 Frank McInenly 1962 Vern Scown 2005 Ron Victor 1983 Bob Balog 1960 Earl Lanyon 2004 Ron Victor 1982 Jim Schlenker 1959 Keith Sim 2003 Colin Spencer 1981 Norm Moore 1958 Frank Gwartney 2002 Colin Spencer 1980 Keith Erdmann 1957 J.C. Robertson 2001 Dave Sharp 1979 Bob Smithens 1956 Ted Newby 2000 Dave Sharp 1978 Scott Hunter 1955 Ted Newby 1999 Ron Sekura 1977 Karl Zajes 1953 Alec Sim 1998 Ron Sekura 1976 Joe Perlich 1952 Don Ball 1997 Elgar Paras 1975 Bud Haynes 1948 Archie Boyce 1996 Elgar Paras 1974 Les Handley 1947 C.S. Smith 1995 Linda Baggaley 1973 Larry Irvine 1946 Joseph H. Reed 1994 Linda Baggaley 1972 John Allen 1942 Clarence Damron 1993 Larry Graham 1971 John Allen 1935 Arthur Mitchell 1992 Larry Graham 1970 Roy Campbell 4 TERM EXPIRY DATE

7 Media Release The Auctioneers Association of Alberta held its'81st Annual Convention at the Edmonton Marriott - River Cree Resort on January 29 to January 31, We had approximately 175 people in attendance. Don Montgomery, from Blackfalds was re-elected President. John Arnold from Lethbridge is Vice President. Jeff Van Wert and Joe Perlich are our newly elected directors. Jeff is from Tilley and Joe is from Lethbridge. Dave Johnson from Innisfail was also re-elected. The other directors in good standing are Pete Conway, Darrell Domes, Dale Menzak, Wade Michener, Cody Hayes, Frederick Bodnarus and Bill Henke. Bill Henke is our BC liaison person. Lorraine Klepper is Secretary-treasurer won by Henry Roy, Edson Auctions. Laverne Buchert, Bill Morison and Dave Sharp were in attendance to receive their 50 year pins and plaques. Don Athen was not in attendance to receive his 50 year pin and plaque.. Wes Spencer was in attendance to receive his 40 years member pin and plaque. Ed Prodaniuk was also recognized as 40 year member but was not in attendance. Bev Montgomery, and Marc Jubinville were in attendance to receive their 25 year pins and plaques. The two other 25 pin recipients Alta Kimball and Dan Skeels were not in attendance. Distinguished Service Award was awarded to Rick Horn of Red Deer. We held our fifth annual All Around Canadian Auctioneer Championship. We The Association presented the Canadian had 20 auctioneers registered for the Cancer Society with a cheque for competition. Cody Hayes, Strathmore, $30, was Champion, with Frederick Bodnarus, Saskatoon, SK, being first runner up and Danny Hooper was recognized as the top Darrell Johnston, Blackfalds, as second seller of the pictures that raise money for runner up. the cancer society. These pictures are Bernie Brown prints that the association The Vern Scown Memorial Tyro Contest purchases and the members sell them finished with a tie. Winners were Mac with all funds going to the Canadian Leask of Arris, B.C and Rod Morison of Cancer Society. Airdrie. The Tyro contest is an auction competition for auctioneers who have Next years Convention will be held in graduated from auction school within the Calgary, February 4th-6th. We will be last two years. holding our sixth Annual All Around Canadian Auctioneer Championship at Timberlind Auctions, Buck Creek, won the convention as well. the best auction photo trophy. Best web page trophy went to Charlton Auctions For more information call and the best business card contest was 5

8 General Meeting Minutes January 20, 2015 President Don Montgomery called the meeting to order at 1:00pm. There was approximately 54 members in attendance. Lorraine Klepper read the minutes from the last general meeting. Colin Spencer / Rick Wattie moved the minutes be approved as read. Carried. Don Montgomery gave his President s Report (attached). Wayne Orsten / Joe Perlich moved report. Carried. Treasurer s Report: John Arnold gave the budget and Treasurer s Report. Wes Spencer Chris Williscroft moved report. Carried. Don Montgomery explained the $15, expense to Luke Ouellette. He has been working on getting the Mechanical Fitness Assessment ruling overturned. Surety Committee: There are 30 people with 15,000 surety coverage and 104 with 25,000 surety coverage. Still complaints, but nothing too serious. Bill Henke / Pete Conway moved report. AMVIC: Keep the committee together until we have these issues completed (attachment). Archives: They are at Cochrane Ranch House. Liaison: Report attached. Legislative: Nothing to report. Membership: Cody Hayes reported. Education Report: 26 people took our course Alberta Auctions 101 & 201. Web Page Report: Dwayne Leslie updated us on Global. Finance & Investments: John Arnold (report attached) Convention: Dale Menzak Everything ready and going well Convention: John Perlich Convention will be Feb 4th to 6th, Coast Hotel in Calgary. Room rate Salute to the ladies. They have entertainment in place already. All-Around Competition: Darrell Domes 20 people in the competition. 6

9 General Meeting Minutes January 20, 2015 (con t) Tyro: 14 people entered. BC Liaison: Bill Henke. Bill has done a lot of work on the magazine. He is asking for help to work on getting changes in BC for auctions. New Business AMVIC and Mechanical Fitness Assessment and other AMVIC items were discussed in great detail. It was agreed to let the newly formed committee to continue and do their job. See attached letter from Alberta Transportation. The 2017 Convention will be held in Red Deer. Ron Sekura / Jeff Van Wert moved we keep the same auditor. Nominations and Elections: Jeff Van Wert, Joe Perlich, Don Montgomery and Dave Johnson have let their name stand for nomination. From the floor: Wayne Orsten nominated James Carlson. Stan Tubiarz nominated Tracy Pollard. Wes Spencer / Rick Wattie moved nominations cease. Robert Lind, Ron Victor and Pete Conway were appointed Scrutinizers. Elected were Jeff Van Wert, Joe Perlich, Don Montgomery, and Dave Johnson. Rick Wattie / Wayne Orsten moved Ballots be destroyed. Adjournment: Robert Lind moved meeting be adjourned at 3:10 pm 7

10 President s Report Auctioneers Association of Alberta was an issue seems to have been January 2015 Convention resolved in a workable fashion for all parties concerned. However, this year started out with the Good afternoon and welcome to our smell of smoke in the air, but no one 81st annual AGM here in Edmonton at could find the fire. The only thing we the Edmonton Marriot River Cree knew for sure was that one had Resort. This meeting is made of started one somewhere. members calling themselves A new leader is at the helm of the Auctioneers Association of Alberta. AMVIC organization and it seems that And this includes the BC Chapter of he likes to be in charge of his Auctioneers Association of Alberta organization and anyone in it, whom we also represent. Not only do including the auctioneer companies we represent the Province of Alberta who sell vehicles for dealers and the & BC but we are made up of members wholesalers. from all provinces excluding Quebec and the Maritimes. We even have Rule #1 that came down the pipe via members in the Yukon and as far Service Alberta in the form a Letter of away as the United States of America. D i r e c t i v e a d v i s i n g a u c t i o n companies that any public auction You can be proud of your company selling automobiles organization. We are the largest consigned from a dealer must have a provincial auctioneering organization MFA (otherwise known as a in Canada. Not only are we the envy Mechanical Fitness Assessment.) o f a l l t h e o t h e r p r o v i n c i a l organizations but our practices are Rule #2 states that no automotive watched closely by the National wholesaler could sell a vehicle Auctioneers Association in the U.S. through a Public Auction Company. If they did so they were potentially The last few years have been very contravening the terms of their quiet (so to speak) with very few real license. This regulation was noticed issues facing the AAA. GST is really a one day while I was reading AMVIC's non-issue anymore. The Fair Trading February newsletter online. (Note - if Act was dealt with successfully a few you go online now you will not find that years ago. Even AMVIC has caused little memo but the rule still exists) us very few real issues. Anything that 8

11 President s Report (con t) An emergency meeting was quickly called that included anyone whom this legislation really affected. This included Michener Allen, Osman's, Regal, Graham Auctions, Ritchie Bros., Allan B. Olson & Montgomery Auction Services. Others may have been invited but at least that is who was in attendance. Ritchie's Bros. Lawyers from Vancouver were on conference phone during that meeting. Manheim and Adesa were not in attendance as they are private auctions, thus not being affected by these regulations. They actually benefit from them, creating an unfair playing field they of course having the advantage. A committee was struck that included Jim Walsh a former Transportation Minister from Newfoundland who is employed by Regal, Wade Michener, Sam Osman, Ritchie Bros. lawyer, Raj, and Larry Graham who served as chairperson. I was chair only of the initial meeting and not present at any other meeting. Our former Minister of Transportation Mr. Luke Oullette was contacted. He was the minister who was originally responsible for exempting auction companies from requiring MFA's for dealer consigned vehicles. He stated that these rules were in 9 direct contravention of the ones he had intended to be put in place. As he still works very closely with our Conservative government it was recommended that Mr. Oullette would be hired for a 3-month period to lobby the Dept. of Transportation to have these rulings changed. Namely the ruling requiring MFA's be supplied by every dealer. This was ratified by the Board and Mr. Oulette was hired. From what we understand a letter doing just that is being expected very shortly From the Minister of Transportation, Mr. Drysdale. So far we have only received promises to this point. AMVIC is not pleased with this lobbying of the government Ministers. Consequently two letters have gone from AMVIC to the Minister of Transportation and Service Alberta. One asks that our request to overrule AMVIC's ruling be disregarded and the other stating that if the auctioneers are exempt of AMVIC's rulings, then too the AAA should possibly not have a position as a stake holders on the AMVIC board. Or at best have only a member at large position. This completely fails to consider the fact that auction companies sell 65% of all the vehicles sold in Alberta. We are a required

12 President s Report (con t) part of the automotive liquidation for dealers. Mr. Oulette's contract has expired. The committee has once again recommended that the board continue to use him to try and have this matter resolved as quickly as possible. Hopefully in our favor. Needless to say AMVIC has monopolized my time, Wades time, Wayne's time, Lorraine's time and the time of several others at least some part of every week if not sometimes daily. (Well I have good news for you Minister Drysdale has indeed signed a letter overturning AMVIC's ruling! Let me read it for you) see page # Another issue that has come to the board meetings a couple of times for discussion is the idea of the AAA running and operating an auction school. This idea has been tabled for now. Further research needs to be done and a lot of details dealt with before this can happen. Auction 101 & 201 did not get the revamping that we promised you as a result of spending so much time with AMVIC & the discussions around the formation of an auction school. That is 2014 in a nut shell. I believe that the auction business is in good shape over all. But be aware it is changing faster than maybe we realize here in Canada specifically in Alberta. As far as your board is concerned it is very soon to be made up of young men and women from a younger generation. If you think that includes you - we need a few good men and women who are not only prepared to get in the fight but who prepared to fight to win. All others need not to enlist. Again, members of the Auctioneers Association of Alberta, let me thank you for allowing me to serve as your president this year. Thank you as well to my board members, past presidents and our hard working secretary Lorraine Klepper. They make my job look easy. It has been a year of learning and listening, a year of waiting and learning patience, and a year of reward as well. I look forward to continuing to serve you. Don Montgomery President Auctioneers Association of Alberta 10

13 Liaison Report For those of you that are new or by telephone. Even though British unfamiliar with what the Liaison Columbia is part of our organization Directors position is about let me read for the past 2 years I still checked in a exerpt from my original 2010 report. with Bill Henke to make sure we were It says "The directorship of 2010 AAA satisfying our mandate within the BC decided that a Liaison Director should setting. I believe Bill will have his own be in place in lieu of not having a report as BC's liaison on our board so Canadian Auction Association I will not say any more about that. speaking or acting for the general Let me briefly touch on each of the good of the Canadian Auctioneers provinces starting with Ontario. across Canada as a whole. Ontario is holding their annual The mandate of the Liaison Director is Convention in Richmond Hill north of to stay in contact with the provincial Toronto Feb 19, 20 & 21. auctioneer associations periodically President Mike (Hoss ) Bertrand is throughout the year. This is for the currently their President. He sends purpose of: greeting to us from their Ontario 1. Determining if there is any federal organization. Ontario has about 150- matters that should be dealt with as 175 members provincial organization or as a group Hoss says Prices are Strong and of provincial organizations. Auctions are Steady. 2. To determine if trends within the Their Convention theme is "BACK TO various associations related to THE FUTURE" It will be dealing membership and /or problem mostly with online auctions. Other situations are similar to our own. topics will be estate law and gun 3. To be of assistance to other legislation associations if called on or have them No real Issues are currently facing be of assistance to us." End of quote auctioneers over there. Over the past year and as recently as But anyone call start up an online this week I have been in contact with auction and they are popping up each provincial organization from everywhere. Ontario through to British Columbia 11

14 Liaison Report (con t) In general terms he says there are no actual rules governing auctioneers in Ontario to speak of. The organization is far too small for the government to concern themselves with it. Apparently Joe Blow can start an auction company and go to work the next day. He may or may not require a municipality or city license. Some municipalities are now requiring police checks. Barb Richards is pumping out about new auctioneers every year "About 10% are maybe getting a foot hold for a while." Hoss says. Again there is no real legislation in place to govern her school and it's content. Manitoba Scott Campbell owner of Fraser Auction Services in Brandon is President Sends greeting from the Manitoba Association to our membership here. Their convention is the last weekend in February. A couple of issues facing the Manitoba auctioneers 1. Ritchie Bros has made their presence known so that is not sitting well as they seem to have scooped several auctions for the spring. 2. The Real Estate Board does not want auctioneers to be able to sell real estate at all. It currently stands that auctioneers can list and sell the real estate by auction providing a lawyer handles the transaction after the auction. Fraser have tested the battle in court and won this one. 3. MSC's (MFA's) are required to register any vehicle in Manitoba. The vehicle can be sold auction without an MSC but must be declared that a MSC is required to register it. 4. Association is getting older and getting smaller. Saskatchewan James Ross is still the association president S a s k a t c h e w a n A u c t i o n e e r s Convention is next week end Feb 6 & 7 in Saskatoon. Jo-Ann Ganzert their secretary says they are drafting a proposal to hopefully join us in Calgary for a joint convention next year. That being I talked to John Perlich our convention chairman and he is agreeable with this and says this is still very do-able. A team member from Saskatchewan would likely join our planning committee. If you remember we pitched the joint 12

15 Liaison Report (con t) convention idea to them back in Unfortunately until now we really have not heard a word from them regarding this matter. They would have liked the c o n v e n t i o n t o h a p p e n i n Lloydminster. However, if you remember too our membership decided to hold the convention in Calgary to ease the travel issues for our BC members. Calgary was not considered to be a hardship for anyone coming from Saskatchewan. Travel is not the issue, but holding their AGM on Saskatchewan soil is a legislative hurdle for them. I am hoping our desire to have this joint convention with them is not jeopardized by this. I guess we will see what happens. Again greetings from Saskatchewan Auctioneers Association was delivered to us via their secretary. Thank you once again for allowing me to be your Liaison Director during Don Montgomery President Auctioneers Association of Alberta Are Your Appraisal Reports up to Standard? CPPA The mark of excellence for personal property appraisal standards. Join over 600 Auctioneers and Appraisers from across Canada in the CANADIAN PERSONAL PROPERTY APPRAISERS GROUP Membership is your link to our diverse network of knowledge and expertise. FOR UPCOMING COURSE DATES CALL Limited enrolment. Call today to reserve or for more information, or visit our web site at Canada s largest personal property appraisal organization. 13

16 Education Committee Report 2015 The Education Committee continues to move along at a smooth and even pace. Only one seminar was conducted this year. This was given on Thursday as a lead-in to 2015 Convention. This practice seems to be working very well. Many of those who attend the course have stayed to attend the convention and/or participate in the tyro. There were 26 attendees who attended Auction 101 & 201. There was very good class participation with positive feedback. Thanks to Ron Sekura, Lorraine Klepper & Ron Victor for assisting me as course facilitators. You may be wondering why I am giving the report as this portfolio was handed to Dale Menzak at the beginning of last term. However, Dale was unable to carry out the duties due to health issues. He asked if I would again assume my former role as Education Director for 2014 AGM Finance Committee Report The organization had a successful year from a financial point of view. If a not-for-profit organization can meet the needs of its members and breakeven that is a successful year. Overall revenue was on track with our operating budget. Revenue from the 14 the balance of the year. As alluded to in the President's report there has been soon talk in the direction of the association starting their own auction college. This would fall under the education portfolio causing this position to change drastically. In the meantime there are many things to be considered before this could become a reality. This issue will continue to be studied. It's outcome will depend on the wishes of the membership and direction of the board. Thank you again for entrusting me with this position. It has been a pleasure to work in this capacity. If there is any courses or information that you would like to see brought to you as auctions please let us know. Don Montgomery, ICCA AAA Education Director Tyro competition was down, but this was offset by increased net revenue from the auction competition and education. We had a record number of registrants in the 101 and 201 courses this past year. All other income items were basically on budget.

17 2014 AGM Finance Committee Report (con t) 1.75% which, while not earth- shattering, is above the market average in the current interest rate environment. The significant variations to budget on the expense side were advertising and promotion, the magazine and professional fees. The organization did not do any paid advertising or promotion this past year. The magazine cost more because of increased content thanks to Bill Henke and we added some colour. Professional fees were considerably higher as we hired a consultant to assist us with the AMVIC situation. All other expense items were on budget or within an acceptable variation. The organization has a strong balance sheet with the bulk of our assets held in term deposits. The average rate of return on our investments is around Accounts receivable are down considerably year over year. Thanks to the office staff for the diligence in collecting outstanding bills. Prepaid expenses and deferred revenue consists primarily of registrations collected and invoices paid for this year s convention. Submitted for your review and approval. John Arnold Chair, Finance Committeemittee AMVIC Report My first year on the board was fairly uneventful as it related to the auction industry. The Association received a letter from Service Alberta without any communication whatsoever that effective immediately a certificate of mechanical fitness would be required. In addition to this AMVIC issued directives to leasing companies that they could not sell by public auction and published in their newsletter that wholesalers could not sell by public auction. AMVIC has denied having any input whatsoever in the issue of mechanical fitness, but did send a letter to Alberta Transportation requesting that the requirement remain in effect. In addition, they have sent a letter to Service Alberta requesting that the Auctioneers Association of Alberta no longer have a seat at AMVIC. Wayne Orsten AMVIC & Automotive Committee 15

18 2015 All Around Auctioneers Competition Summary The 5th annual All Around Auctioneer's Competition was held in Edmonton, Alberta on January 31. I want to first thank all the people that helped with the event and especially our major sponsor, AgDealer.com. This year's competition had 20 contestants from BC, Alberta and Saskatchewan. The first place customized buckle and a cheque for $2, went to Cody Hayes of Strathmore, AB. Cody graduated in 1998 from the Western College of Auctioneering in Billings, MT. His auction company Wheatland Auctions specializes in farm, agricultural consignment and real estate auctions. The first runner up was Fredrick Bodnarus of Saskatoon, SK and third place went to Darrell Johnston of Blackfald, AB. I want to congratulate all winners and contestants. This year, the committee was very pleased with the organization, a higher amount of attendees from the public, and the entire competition overall. Again, congratulations to all! See you in 2016! Committee Chair Ron Victor, ASA and Darrell Domes 98 Deluxe Guest Rooms Executive & Jacuzzi Suites JB s Lounge & Remington s Grill Meeting & Convention Facilities Indoor Pool & Whirlpool Free Wireless Free Parking Reservations blackknightinn.ca frontoffice@blackknightinn.ca Black Knight Inn th Avenue, Red Deer, Alberta. T4R 1H1 16

19 New Director Bio s Jeff Van Wert Jeff was raised on his family s farm near Tilley, AB. He took all of his grade school in Tilley enjoying growing up and working on the farm. Jeff continued to farm after High School and in 1995 trained as an auctioneer at the Auctioneering Institute of Canada in Strathmore, AB. He enjoyed using his new skills conducting sales for local farmers and working for Johnny Charlton. In the fall of 1998 he moved to Moose Jaw, SK to work for Heartland Livestock Services as an auctioneer and marketing rep. He worked there, living alone until 2001, when he married a farm girl from Rosemary, AB and she joined him in Saskatchewan. In the fall of 2002, Jeff and Sheryl moved to Bassano, AB to be closer to their families and the farm. Jeff had accepted a position at the Calgary Stockyards in Strathmore as an auctioneer and salesman. In the fall of 2003 they moved back to the family farm and Jeff retained his position at the Calgary Stockyards as a salesman and agent for TEAM (The Electronic Auction Market) which he still holds. In 2006 Jeff and Sheryl took over the family farm and Jeff rejoined Johnny Charlton s staff as an auctioneer. He also conducted auction sales independently under the banner of Van Wert Auction Services. In 2011 Jeff & Sheryl purchased Charlton Auction Service Ltd. and operate this business from their farm at Tilley. Jeff continues to enjoy farming, marketing cattle, and the opportunities afforded to him in the auction sales business. He and Sheryl are thankful to be able to raise their 4 children on the farm near family and friends and in a great community. Joe Perlich Joe Perlich is a third generation auctioneer, and was born and raised in Lethbridge. He is very fortunate to work for the family business Perlich Bros. Auction Market Ltd. for many years. Being involved in Livestock, Machinery, Farm, Real Estate, and charity auctions. Joe graduated in June of 2007, from Western College of Auctioneering in Billings, MT. He has been a member of the Auctioneers' Association of Alberta since Won the Vern Scown Tyro Memorial Contest in 2009, and has been working in the auction industry ever since. In 2012 he became a licensed Realtor for Residential, Commercial, and Agricultural Real Estate. Joe the married his bride Michelle in the summer of He is excited and motivated as a new Director on the Auctioneers' Association of Alberta. 17

20 January 28, 2015 Safety, Policy and Engineering Avenue Twin Atria Building EDMONTON, Alberta T6B 2X3 Canada Telephone Fax Mr. Don Montgomery President Auctioneers' Association of Alberta R.R. #1 Red Deer, Alberta T4N 5E1 Dear Mr. Montgomery: I would like to take this opportunity to advise you that Section 15 of the Vehicle Inspection Regulation has been amended to exempt vehicles sold through a sale by public auction from the requirement to give a Mechanical Fitness Assessment to the buyer before entering into a contract to sell a motor vehicle. The Ministerial Order for this amendment was signed on January 22, 2015 and will be published in the Alberta Gazette on February 14, Alberta Transportation is working with Service Alberta to develop a joint communication plan which will outline this amendment. Mr. Montgomery I would ask that you clearly communicate to your members that this exemption only applies to motor vehicles sold through a public auction. Vehicles sold by dealers through any other means, such as consignment lots, will require a Mechanical Fitness Assessment to be provided to the buyer. I would also suggest that in an effort to avoid complaints and unnecessary investigations that buyers are made aware through education and awareness that vehicles sold through an auction should be considered to be in an as is condition. Thank you for providing me with the Auctioneer's Association of Alberta's position on this issue as it was very helpful in coming to a reasonable resolution. I trust that your association will be pleased with this change. Sincerely, Denis Boissonnault Executive Director, Safety & Compliance Services cc: Luke Ouellette 18

21 Distinguished Service Award Thank you. Firstly, I would like to thank the Auctioneers Association, the Directors and Committee for nominating and awarding me with the Distinguished Services Award at the 2015 Auctioneers Convention. It was certainly a surprise and a very humbling experience for me. Something I will never forget. Thank you to President Don Montgomery and his crew for hosting a great convention. Thank you to all the auctioneers in both competitions and congratulations to the winners out of a great field of auctioneers. Congratulations to Davie, Bill, Wes, Lavern and the other auctioneers for your long-time membership awards. Thank you Davie for your inspirational speech for the award that I thought you had been nominated for. And to Ron Victor at the door for making sure my hair was okay. Sorry, Wes, I should have got more for your picture. I ll keep practicing and maybe do better next time. It was a great time and thank you, Lorraine, for all the work you do for the auctioneers and the association keeping everything organized. Thank you friends, Rick Horn, Red Deer Rick Horn receiving his Distinguished Service Award from Dave Sharp 19

22 Watchdog for Motor Vehicle Industry Misusing Powers Karen Kleiss Edmonton Journal EDMONTON - A leaked ministerial memo revealed Monday the agency that protects Albertans from unscrupulous car dealers is allegedly conducting biased investigations and abusing its powers under the law. The letter, released by the Wildrose opposition, shows an internal government investigation found multiple serious concerns, including unjust conduct of investigations and misuse of penalties. The letter also reveals that since April 2013, 60 per cent of the investigators Stephen Khan have left the organization, and overall staff turnover stands at 70 per cent. While his letter says the department has c o n c l u d ed the Investigative Several of the identified concerns are Operational Review, he insisted the serious, Service Alberta Minister document is a draft and said it would Stephen Khan wrote in the letter to not be fair to the board of AMVIC to Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council release the review to the public. He also board chair Wayne Paulsen. refused to commit to publicly releasing His list goes on to highlight allegations of the report when it is finalized. misuse of administrative enforcement Khan acknowledged there are ongoing tools as well as concerns that the issues with the organization, but did not actions taken have not been reached in elaborate except to say that he met with a manner that is fair, impartial and open. the board Monday and he is confident the organization continues to work on AMVIC s job is to oversee the motor behalf of Albertans. vehicle industry under the terms of the Fair Trading Act, which was passed in I m not going to say that there aren t 1999 in part to improve consumer some ongoing issues, Khan said. This confidence in the industry. isn t about AMVIC not doing their job. We re confident that AMVIC is doing In an interview Monday, Khan said the their job, this is about AMVIC being able investigation was launched in early to do their job better. 2014, but he refused to say what triggered it. Wildrose critic Rick Strankman said the 20

23 Watchdog for Motor Vehicle Industry Misusing Powers (con t) letter paints a troubling picture of the state of the board governing our motor vehicle industry. An industry council that is executing partial rulings on regulations and is misusing administrative enforcement tools has the potential to be devastating to many of those involved within the Thank You From Hugh Sangster s Family To the Auctioneers Association of Alberta On behalf of my son, Scott, and myself, Hugh s wife, we would like to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone from the Auctioneers Association with your messages of support and concern during the most difficult time of Hugh s short battle with cancer. Over the years, this annual convention became such a huge part of Hugh s work which he thoroughly enjoyed each year and would have been more than honored to have been able to attend and With Deepest Sympathy Len Shwed July 11, 1945 December 16, industry auction houses, mechanics, car salesmen and car owners, he said. If these allegations are true, there are several PC ministers and the current premier who need to answer to Albertans why these serious allegations have gone unaddressed. receive the 2014 President s Award plaque. Hugh not only enjoyed the preparation and work for the conventions, but also the many people he met over the years. We are proud to have this plaque in our home honoring Hugh for all of his participation, contributions and dedication towards the Auctioneers Conventions. Hugh is so deeply loved and missed. Once again, THANK YOU from Debbie and Scott and all the best in your future conventions. Len was a member of the Auctioneering in Mason city, Auctioneers Association of Iowa. He had an auction job Alberta for many years. Len waiting for him at Vold, Jones was born on July 11, 1945 in & Vold in Ponoka, AB. Two Hill, Alberta to Andrew Shwed and Mary Jorgensen. He later moved to Rocky Mountain House, AB, where He graduated on March 16, h e s t a r t e d L e n s 1968 from the Reisch Auctioneering. A m e r i c a n S c h o o l o f

24 Convention Highlights Tyro Contestants Alberta Auctions 101 & 201 Class New Director, Joe Perlich New director, Jeff Van Wert, and his wife, Sheryl 22 Bev Montgomery receiving her 25-year pin

25 Convention Highlights Lavern Bouchert receiving 50-year plaque from Don Montgomery Wes Spencer receiving 40-year plaque from Don Montgomery Marc Jubinville receiving his 25-year plaque from Don Montgomery 23

26 2016 Convention February 4 6, 2016 Friday s Entertainment: Robert Larrabee Saturday s Entertainment: Drew Gregory 24

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39 Spring is Almost Here!

40 MEMBER AUCTIONEERS ASSOCIATION OF ALBERTA