Commission (chair), Newport Area Chamber of Commerce, Moving Jackson County Forward, Newport Country Club and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. “I have been on the board of the Newport Economic Development Commission since its inception in 2002, and I am proud of the impact we have made,” he said. “We worked hard to create over 2,700 jobs in the local area. This has not only helped the economy of my small community but has benefited thousands of families who now can provide for the people they care about.” Sides also puts the focus on children through his philanthropic endeavors. He has provided books, educational materials and funding for local public schools, as well as offering scholarships to graduating high school students. George Kell Motors is the site for several different community events, including an annual car show that benefits the Jackson County Humane Society, luncheons for first responders, food drives and Veterans Day activities that feature complimentary oil changes and free coffee and donuts for area veterans. Dealers were nominated by the executives of state and metro dealer associations around the country. A panel of faculty members from the Tauber Institute for Global Operations at the University of Michigan selected one finalist from each of the four NADA regions and one national Dealer of the Year. Three finalists received $5,000 for their favorite charities and the winner received $10,000 to give to charity, donated by Ally. In its 13th year as an exclusive sponsor, Ally also recognized dealer nominees and their community efforts by contributing $1,000 to each nominee’s 501(c)3 charity of choice. Nominees were recognized on AllyDealerHeroes.com, which highlights the philanthropic contributions and achievements of TIME Dealer of the Year nominees. “At TIME, we are proud to uphold the decades-long tradition of honoring automotive dealers who make a positive impact and show dedication to their communities through our TIME Dealer of the Year award,” said TIME CEO Jessica Sibley. “We are excited to keep this tradition of applauding these community contributions together with our partners at Ally.” Doug Timmerman, president of Ally, said, “Auto dealers nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year award have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to not only the industry but to their respective communities through volunteerism, sponsorships and supporting charitable causes, no matter the market climate. Whether their clients are purchasing a first car or upgrading for a growing family, these selected dealers have successfully extended their relationships beyond the showroom and have been steadfast in driving their communities forward.” Sides was nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year award by Greg Kirkpatrick, president of the Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association. Sides and his wife, Cindy, have three children. BUILD YOUR BRAND, CONTACT US TODAY! (855) 747-4003 sales@thenewslinkgroup.com 20 Arkansas Auto Dealer
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