Alabama Tire Dealers Association
"Serving the Tire Industry in Alabama"
2008 Convention Recap
Convention Golf Tournament
This year’s tournament was held at Shalimar Pointe Golf Club, part of the Emerald Coast Golf Trail. We had 7 teams in the tournament and everyone had a great time. The 1st place team of Cecil Bowden, Walter Parker, Jeff Work, and Barry Morgan won a travel duffle bag and cap. The 2nd place team of Jim Knop, Tony Lentz, Craig Wilks, and Trace Wilks won a shoe bag and a dozen golf balls. The last place team (also known that weekend as the “Green Team”) consisting of Barry McGirt, Carl McGirt, Steve Breland, and Sterling Yearber received “ATDA Crying Towels” for their efforts. Our Closest-to-the-Pin winner was Rhett Marques and the Longest Drive went to Craig Wilks. Both won $25 Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail Gift Certificates.
Friday Night Reception Pool-Party
At the Friday night reception, attendees enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres and a beautiful, hand-carved fruit display featuring a watermelon with the ATDA logo carved into it. Rick Henson provided “beach music” for the pool-side party. It was an opportunity to visit with old friends and meet some new ones as well. The golf tournament winners were announced and prizes were presented.
Saturday Morning
Past Presidents Breakfast
& Business Meeting
At the Past Presidents’ Breakfast, Senator “Hank” Erwin (R – 14th District) spoke about current issues facing the Alabama Legislature and the national political environment. Following the breakfast, at the business meeting, Bobby Harper with RTI discussed the benefits of nitrogen in the tire industry. John Pecoraro from Cooper Tire provided an overview of the issues and trends that are currently affecting the tire industry. New Board Members and Officers were elected: Rhett Marques – President, Steve Breland – 1st Vice President, Mike Griffin – 2nd Vice President, Dolan Davis – Secretary/Treasurer, Bruce Bedsole – Director, and David Bracato – Director.
Saturday Night
Scholarship Banquet
& Hall of Fame Inductions
After a delectable Surf & Turf Dinner, the three scholarship recipients were announced. Jim Whaley then conducted a Scholarship Pledge Drive which resulted in $4,200 being pledged for future scholarships. The Hall of Fame Inductions followed with Jim Foust and Eddie Hardwick being named as the 2008 inductees. A special plaque was given to Frank Harcrow for his tireless efforts toward March Mania. It was announced that Frank has been named Permanent Trade Show Committee Chairman which includes March Mania. Retiring Board Members, Bud Adams, Phyllis Owens, and Jim Whaley were presented plaques by out-going President Barry McGirt. After the passing of the gavel, our new President Rhett Marques introduced the new Executive Committee and Board Members to the group. The night ended with the announcement of our Annual Silent Auction winners which brought in another $944 for the Scholarship Fund.
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