Pub 65 | 2024-25 | Issue 1 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TEXAS AUTOMOBILE DEALERS ASSOCIATION 2024 TADA BOARD MEETING TADA Chairman Bryan Case and Tammie Case
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Contents © 2024 Texas Automobile Dealers Association (TADA) | The newsLINK Group LLC. All rights reserved. Dealers’ Choice is published four times each year by The newsLINK Group LLC for the TADA and is the official publication for this association. The information contained in this publication is intended to provide general information for review, consideration and education. The contents do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied on as such. If you need legal advice or assistance, it is strongly recommended that you contact an attorney as to your specific circumstances. The statements and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the TADA, its board of directors, or the publisher. Likewise, the appearance of advertisements within this publication does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any product or service advertised. Dealers’ Choice is a collective work, and as such, some articles are submitted by authors who are independent of the TADA. While Texas Automobile Dealers encourages a first-print policy, in cases where this is not possible, every effort has been made to comply with any known reprint guidelines or restrictions. Content may not be reproduced or reprinted without prior written permission. For further information, please contact the publisher at (855) 747-4003. Scan this code with your smart phone for a direct link to the TADA website. 8 Dealers’ Choice 24 6 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The Only Constant Is Change BY DARREN WHITEHURST, PRESIDENT, TADA 8 2024 TADA Board Meeting Montage Deer Valley — Park City, Utah, September 29-30 12 Celebrating a Milestone 14 Mark Jones Appointed to the Board of the Texas DMV 16 2024 TADA Leadership 19 Lost Pines Toyota Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month A Community Gathering Full of Culture, Fun and Health Resources 22 AI in Cybersecurity The Pros and Cons of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity BY STRADIANT 24 Gulf Coast Protection District Prepares for Future Storms BY SPENCER GRUBBS AND JESS DONALD, FISCAL NOTES 28 Community News 28 Ancira Auto Group 29 Vickie and Jerry Durant Hall Dedicated at Weatherford College 29 Cavender Auto Family Fundraised for Cystic Fibrosis with Golf Tournament 30 Greg May Honda Sponsor the Taking Care of Teachers Supply Drive 30 City Limits Subaru Supporting Teachers Through the Subaru Loves Learning Initiative 32 Park Place Porsche Dallas Art Exhibit 33 North Park Subaru Teaming Up to Support Cancer Patients 34 Gene Messer Auto Group Giving Back 35 Texas Labor Market Review DEALERS’ CHOICE 4
The Only Constant Is Change By Darren Whitehurst, President, TADA Change is all around us, and it’s an exhilarating force that shapes our lives and industry. The ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus famously stated, “The only constant is change,” and this timeless truth remains relevant today. As we emerge from a major pandemic and a national election, it’s clear that the status quo will once again be challenged. Auto dealers have faced transformations for over a century, and I am genuinely excited about the changes that lie ahead. One of the greatest strengths of automobile dealers is our incredible ability to adapt. We navigate a complex landscape of state and federal regulations daily, and through these challenges, I am continually impressed by the resilience and creativity of our members. TADA has always been proud to serve as a catalyst for improvement within the franchised dealer system. I am thrilled to announce our upcoming transformation of the Texas Dealer Academy into the TADA Leadership Network. This initiative will provide a dynamic forum for current and future leaders to engage in meaningful discussions about emerging trends in the automotive industry, learn about how TADA works to build and maintain a better business climate in Texas, and learn behind-the-scenes updates on the legal, political and regulatory landscape ahead. I encourage you to invest in the future of TADA and the development of your promising employees by giving them the opportunity to participate in this important organization and build invaluable relationships with their peers. Please reach out to Kathy Sims if you have any questions or need additional information. With all this talk of change, there is at least one constant, the Texas Legislature will convene on the second Tuesday in January. On Jan. 14, 2025, the 89th Texas Legislature will start its 140-day work to pass a biennial state budget and tackle the myriad of issues facing the state, including a number of critical ones that impact our industry. These range from proposed changes to the state franchise laws to vehicle financing and warranty work. We are entering this session with renewed energy and optimism. After nearly two decades of exceptional leadership from Rob Braziel, I am excited to announce the promotion of Kate McGrath to senior vice president. She will be responsible for leading our state and federal legislative efforts moving forward. I am thrilled to have her direct these efforts and have no doubt that with your continued collaboration, we will build on our past successes and navigate the challenging road ahead with confidence. Finally, I hope you’ve had the chance to connect with your state elected officials through the campaign season. The 181 members of the Texas House (150) and Senate (31) play a pivotal role in creating a fair business environment for auto dealers and the consumers we serve. A proven constant for TADA is that all politics are ultimately local, and TADA has worked collaboratively with our metro associations and local dealers to demonstrate the positive impact that Texas dealerships have on their communities. So please, if you haven’t done so already, consider inviting your elected officials out to your dealership for a visit. Change is inevitable. It brings with it incredible opportunities for growth and innovation. I am excited about what the future holds for Texas auto dealers and am deeply impressed by the commitment and talent of our team and our members. Together, we will shape a brighter future for the automotive industry in Texas. PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE DEALERS’ CHOICE 6
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2024 TADA Board Meeting Montage Deer Valley — Park City, Utah September 29-30 DEALERS’ CHOICE 8
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Celebrating a Milestone While at the 2024 TADA Board Meeting, during the Chairman’s Dinner, dealers raised their glasses to TADA General Counsel and Executive Vice President Karen Phillips to celebrate her milestone year with the association. Throughout the years, Karen has led the way for Texas dealers in critical areas including, but not limited to, the dealer’s inventory tax, Blue Law and documentary fee. Easily the most respected dealer association attorney in the country, her peers depend upon her for leadership and advice on franchise law, factory relations and other dealer issues. Karen continues to be relentless in her representation of our Texas franchised dealers and is always available to visit with them to advise and problem-solve any challenges they face. No one is more devoted to the future of Texas dealers and the franchise system than Karen. We salute you! DEALERS’ CHOICE 12
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Mark Jones Appointed to the Board of the Texas DMV Gov. Greg Abbott has appointed Mark Jones to the board of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles for a term set to expire on Feb. 1, 2029. The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles provides customer services that include vehicle registration, regulation of vehicle dealers and grants to reduce vehicle burglaries and thefts, among others. Mark of Mansfield is CEO of the Mike Carlson Motor Company. He is a member and former president of the Texas Independent Automobile Dealers Association, former president of the Fort Worth Independent Automobile Dealers Association and former trustee for the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association Foundation. Additionally, he has served in various volunteer capacities for the Harmony Baptist Church, Legacy High School Parent Teacher Association, Relay for Life and the Rotary Club of Arlington. Jones received a Bachelor of Arts in broadcast communication from The University of Texas at Arlington. DEALERS’ CHOICE 14
Ryan Kirkpatrick Vice Chair District Directors 19 Carlos Liriano 21 Pat Schuchart 24 Joseph Shields 26 Mark Stevenson SOUTHWEST Fernando Varela Vice Chair District Directors 2 Tim Capps 3 Joe Loving 4 Robert Turner 7 Ashley Willson EAST W.C. Smith III Vice Chair District Directors 5 Jason Feldman 6 Kyle Janke 15 Enrique Lance 33 Tony Gullo Jr. SOUTHEAST Evelyn Sames Vice Chair District Directors 17 Melissa DeMontrond 18 Chris Wall 20 Jennifer Yoder 27 Natasha del Barrio SOUTH 2024 Executive Committee Charlie Gilchrist IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Tim Crenwelge CHAIR-ELECT Bryan Case Sr. CHAIR John Luciano Vice Chair District Directors 28 David Zwiacher 30 Patrick Sykora 31 Cory Dupriest NORTHWEST Stephen Gilchrist Vice Chair District Directors 10 Tony Pack 22 Will Churchill 23 Jose Pozos 34 Sherri Herring NORTH Jeff Rachor Vice Chair District Directors 1 C.J. Barnett 8 Scott Fly 9 Finley Ewing IV 35 John Lukehart NORTHEAST Greg Bruner Vice Chair District Directors 16 Kenny McCarty 25 Jimmy Bass 29 Bill Pollard Jr. 32 Drew Hoy WEST Paula Lohse Vice Chair District Directors 11 Julie Herrera 12 Mike Zorn 13 Mary Karr-Ellis 14 Scott Stark CENTRAL 2024 TADA Leadership DEALERS’ CHOICE 16
DIRECTORS AT-LARGE CAR DEALERS • Howie Bentley • Benny Boyd • Bently Durant • T. Harper • Mike Sullivan • Brandon Tomes TRUCK DEALERS • James Bennie Brian Bruckner TEXAS TRUCK DEALER CHAIRMAN Karen Phillips TADA GENERAL COUNSEL AND EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Darren Whitehurst TADA PRESIDENT METRO CHAIRS • Rick Wallace • James Bagan • Jason Gonzalez • Chris Gillman • Art Kiolbassa • Brent McGavock • Carl Sewell III 17 DEALERS’ CHOICE
Robert TURNER C.J. BARNETT Jason FELDMAN Kyle JANKE Ashley WILLSON Tim CAPPS Joe LOVING East, Dist. 4 East, Dist. 3 East, Dist. 2 Northeast, Dist. 1 Southeast, Dist. 5 Southeast, Dist. 6 East, Dist. 7 Scott FLY Mike ZORN Mary KARR-ELLIS Scott STARK Finley EWING, IV Tony PACK Julie HERRERA North, Dist. 10 Central, Dist. 11 Northeast, Dist. 9 Northeast, Dist. 8 Central, Dist. 12 Central, Dist. 13 Central, Dist. 14 Will CHURCHILL Mark STEVENSON Natasha DEL BARRIO David ZWIACHER Jose POZOS Joseph SHIELDS Jimmy BASS Southwest, Dist. 24 West, Dist. 25 North, Dist. 23 North, Dist. 22 Southwest, Dist. 26 South, Dist. 27 Northwest, Dist. 28 Bill POLLARD, JR. Tony GULLO JR. Sherri HERRING John LUKEHART Patrick SYKORA Cory DUPRIEST Drew HOY Northwest, Dist. 31 West, Dist. 32 Northwest, Dist. 30 West, Dist. 29 Southeast, Dist. 33 North, Dist. 34 Northeast, Dist. 35 Rick WALLACE James BENNIE Art KIOLBASSA T. HARPER Brent MCGAVOCK Mike SULLIVAN Chris GILLMAN Bently DURANT Carl SEWELL, III Brandon TOMES James BAGAN Howie BENTLEY Jason GONZALEZ Benny BOYD Metro Chair Director-At-Large Metro Chair Director-At-Large Metro Chair Director-At-Large Metro Chair Director-At-Large Metro Chair Director-At-Large Metro Chair Director-At-Large Metro Chair Director-At-Large Melissa DEMONTROND Kenny McCARTY Carlos LIRIANO Jennifer YODER Pat SCHUCHART Chris WALL South, Dist. 17 South, Dist. 18 West, Dist. 16 Southwest, Dist. 19 South, Dist. 20 Southwest, Dist. 21 2024 District Directors Enrique LANCE Southeast, Dist. 15 DEALERS’ CHOICE 18
Lost Pines Toyota Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month A Community Gathering Full of Culture, Fun and Health Resources Carlos Liriano and the Lost Pines Toyota family’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month was a vibrant and heartwarming event, bringing together community members, local businesses and partners to honor the rich cultural traditions and promote wellness in Bastrop County. The day was energetic, featuring traditional food, music and activities. Attendees enjoyed performances from the Cedar Creek Varsity and Junior Varsity teams, as well as the Bastrop Middle School Folkloric groups, who showcased the beauty of Hispanic dance and culture. The delicious offerings from local favorites — Casa Chapala Bastrop, Poco Loco Supermercado and Berry Cool Snow Cones — ensured no one was left hungry! In addition to food and entertainment, the event offered important community resources. Attendees received health information and were part of an educational panel focused on traumatic brain injury (TBI) awareness and prevention in children. Special thanks to the panel hosts, Priscilla Ruiz and Kerry Fossler, for their dynamic and engaging presentation, and to the expert panelists, Dr. Pompeyo Chavez, Bastrop County Health Authority; Sally Snow with the Texas Pediatric Readiness Improvement Project; Dr. Janel Morris, Bastrop ISD Director of Student Services; Brady Brewer, a student ambassador; and Dr. Christina Master from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Together, they highlighted the importance of raising awareness around concussions and TBI prevention through the Toyota Way Forward Fund. In a touching conclusion to the health panel, Ascension Catholic Church presented Bastrop ISD with an $80,000 check to support TBI awareness and prevention (Left to Right) Priscilla Ruiz, Trustee, BISD, Christian Master, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia/Minds Matter Concussion Program and Carlos Liriano, Dealer Principal Lost Pines Toyota 19 DEALERS’ CHOICE
initiatives, ensuring that the efforts made that day will continue to benefit the community in the future. Many local organizations made the event possible, including Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative, Univision 62, First National Bank, Poco Loco Supermercado and the Lost Pines Toyota family, all of whom provided amazing door prizes or refreshments. A special thank you goes to Creative Lab Studio for capturing the memories with photography, videography and their fun 360 photo booth. DJ Manny Mo kept the tunes flowing, and Jairo Morales, the lively event MC, ensured there was never a dull moment. Children’s activities, hosted by Bastrop County Cares, kept the younger attendees engaged and entertained, making this a true family event. Carlos Liriano and the Lost Pines Toyota family extend their deepest gratitude to everyone who came out to celebrate with them and to all the sponsors and partners who made this Hispanic Heritage Month event a huge success. It was a day filled with community spirit, cultural pride and vital health resources that will leave a lasting impact on our Bastrop County families. (Left to Right) Christian Master, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia/ Minds Matter Concussion Program, Deborah A. Moore, Ascension Catholic Church Parish Business Administrator, Brady Brewer, Bastrop High School student ambassador, Dr. Pompeyo Chavez, MD, Premier Family Physicians, Carlos Liriano, Dealer Principal Lost Pines Toyota, Dr. Janel Morris, BISD Director of Student Services, Charles Hamrick, Emile Elementary student ambassador DEALERS’ CHOICE 20
Anticipate every turn In an industry that’s always evolving, your dealership can rely on our Dealer Financial Services team’s 90 years of experience to see what’s around the corner, forward-thinking insights to prepare you, and technology to keep you ahead of the curve. What would you like the power to do?® Terri Sapp, terri.sapp@bofa.com Tony Andrews, tony.andrews@bofa.com business.bofa.com/dealer ©2023 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. DFS-699-AD 5949042 Investment products offered by Investment Banking Affiliates: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value “Bank of America” and “BofA Securities” are the marketing names used by the Global Banking and Global Markets divisions of Bank of America Corporation. Lending, derivatives, other commercial banking activities, and trading in certain financial instruments are performed globally by banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Trading in securities and financial instruments, and strategic advisory, and other investment banking activities, are performed globally by investment banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“Investment Banking Affiliates”), including, in the United States, BofA Securities, Inc., which is a registered broker-dealer and Member of SIPC, and, in other jurisdictions, by locally registered entities. BofA Securities, Inc. is a registered futures commission merchant with the CFTC and a member of the NFA.
Artificial intelligence already plays a part in our daily lives. From our smartphones to our navigation systems, it is integrated into many technologies we are already familiar with. AI has allowed for the development of powerful tools to enhance security. But it can also present new challenges as cybercriminals utilize its capabilities as well. The Pros of Artificial Intelligence Enhanced Threat Detection AI dramatically improves the ability to detect emerging threats. Traditional security systems often rely on known threat databases and previously encountered attack patterns. AI, however, utilizes machine learning to analyze patterns and learn from them, enabling it to identify anomalies that could signify new, never-before-seen threats. This proactive approach to threat detection offers unique benefits in a landscape where attackers continually evolve their strategies. Combatting Security Fatigue Using artificial intelligence properly can help combat fatigue and increase productivity. This makes us better digital citizens and reduces the risk of falling for threats like phishing emails just because of fatigue. AI Chatbot Reminders • Avoid putting sensitive personal or company information into an AI chatbot. • Don’t blindly trust the chatbot’s outputs. Ask your chatbot to cite its sources and verify the accuracy of its response. Potential Cybersecurity Threats of Artificial Intelligence AI in Phishing Attacks Cybercriminals are using AI to generate phishing messages without errors. Spotting misspelled words or grammar errors is no longer a sure way of determining whether a message is a scam. By analyzing vast amounts of data with AI, scammers can also create extremely specific spear phishing messages using the personal details of the user they are targeting. Deepfakes and Misinformation The use of AI deepfakes — highly realistic fake audio and video — is on the rise. These deepfakes can be used to spread misinformation or impersonate individuals to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. Cybercriminals also use hot topics in their deepfakes to get users to click on malicious links. Scam Efficiency Scammers can now operate at a scale previously unimaginable, and they can rapidly adapt their strategies in response to detection efforts. Automated systems help them test different approaches, learn from their failures and refine their techniques. Tips Think twice before trusting a familiar face or voice. Continue using the SLAM method to evaluate the sender, links, attachments and messages of emails, texts and other online communications. For more information, contact Joe Dunne at jdunne@stradiant.com or call (512) 271-4508. AI in Cybersecurity The Pros and Cons of Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity By Stradiant DEALERS’ CHOICE 22
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Gulf Coast Protection District Prepares for Future Storms By Spencer Grubbs and Jess Donald, Fiscal Notes The Galveston Bay Storm Surge Barrier System represents one of three major projects under the Coastal Texas Project. DEALERS’ CHOICE 24
Nearly seven years after Hurricane Harvey made landfall on the Texas coast, killing dozens of Texans and wreaking havoc on the state economy, officials are working to strengthen the resiliency of the coast against the next terrible storm. Hurricane Harvey stands as the second costliest hurricane in U.S. history, causing an estimated $158.8 billion in damage, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information. Much of this damage resulted from storm surge, or the rapid and excessive rise in seawater level. Powerful hurricanes like Harvey that bring destruction and loss of life drive home the importance of the federally authorized Coastal Texas Project. As a long-term risk management and coastal resiliency plan for the most vulnerable sections of the Texas coastline, the project includes new storm mitigation infrastructure and ecosystem restoration in the Houston-Galveston coastal region — one of the nation’s largest social and economic hubs — that are sponsored by the Gulf Coast Protection District (GCPD). Fiscal Notes staff spoke with GCPD Executive Director Nicole Sunstrum and Board Member Sally Bakko to learn more about this special purpose district and how it’s working to defend Texans and industry supply chains along the upper Gulf Coast from catastrophic storm surge. Fiscal Notes (FN): What can you tell us about the Coastal Texas Project? GCPD: The Coastal Texas Project is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) project that will use multiple lines of defense and methods of storm surge suppression along our state’s coast, including heavy infrastructure like pump systems and levees, as well as natural features like beach and dune systems. The Galveston Bay Storm Surge Barrier System represents one of three major projects under the Coastal Texas Project, and it’ll make up most of the estimated $34.4 billion price tag of the program (Exhibit 1). One part of the barrier, the Bolivar Roads Gate System, will be the biggest infrastructure project in U.S. history. The gate system, which is designed to stop storm surge and protect the people and communities of the region, is the economic engine of this project. It’s also the form of protection that will mean the most to the rest of Texas and the nation because of the reduction of damage to the energy and petrochemical industries that support critical economic supply chains. The Galveston Bay barrier system will ultimately pay for itself when you consider the total cost of past hurricanes, like Harvey and Ike. Exhibit 1: Galveston Bay Storm Surge Barrier System, Estimated Costs Funding Source Amount (Billions) Federal Share $19.41 Non-Federal Share $11.79 Total Cost of Galveston Bay Storm Surge Barrier System Cost $31.20 Total Cost of Coastal Texas Project $34.38 Share of Galveston Barrier System of Total Coastal Texas Project Cost 90.75% Note: Non-federal share funds are state funds appropriated by the Texas Legislature. Source: The Coastal Texas Project, Galveston Bay FN: Where does the GCPD come in? GCPD: The Legislature created the GCPD to be a non-federal sponsor of the Galveston Bay Storm Surge Barrier System, including the gate system. Our most important supply chain is the human supply chain, or the folks who operate the product supply chains. 25 DEALERS’ CHOICE
The GCPD is a five-county special purpose district that includes all of Harris County — the most populous county in Texas and the third most populous county in the U.S. — and Galveston, Chambers, Jefferson and Orange counties. It’s nearly 5,500 square miles with about 5.5 million people, so it’s very large for a local government entity. FN: How is the Texas General Land Office (GLO) involved? GCPD: The GLO is also a non-federal sponsor. While GCPD will be overseeing the hard infrastructure like the gate system, the GLO will have primary responsibility for the Coastwide Ecosystem Restoration Plan components of the Coastal Texas Project. These components include restoring degraded ecosystems that buffer communities and critical industry along the Texas coast, including restoration of beaches, dunes, marshes and islands, as well as the creation of oyster reefs and breakwaters. The GLO is also the lead for the third major Coastal Texas Project, the South Padre Island Beach Nourishment Project, which will provide storm surge protection for South Padre Island in the form of beach and dune restoration and enhancement. This nature-based feature provides ecosystem and recreational benefits while reducing storm surge risk. Both GLO and GCPD are working on the state’s behalf with the federal government to implement the Coastal Texas Project. The GLO works with the Corps for the ecosystem restoration pieces, while GCPD partners with the Corps for the infrastructural pieces. The GLO also provides funding and oversight to GCPD for its operations, administration and implementation of the district’s coastal infrastructure projects. FN: How do storms impact the state’s biggest industries like oil and gas? GCPD: When you consider that 40% of the world’s oil supply is used in the petrochemical industry, and those petrochemicals are used to manufacture products like clothing, electronics, consumer goods, fertilizer and semiconductors, and then you narrow that down to our region — the upper Texas Gulf Coast — where we produce more than 40% of those basic chemicals, you begin to see how events impacting this region could have a significant effect on what businesses and manufacturers rely on to operate. And it’s not just statewide but nationwide. With respect to alternative energy, the Houston area has been designated as one of seven “hydrogen hubs” around the country, with the Department of Energy investing $1.2 billion. FN: How do these storms impact the tourism industry? GCPD: Texas produces 60% of the nation’s aviation fuel. In 2022, travel spending in Texas reached $81.9 billion and generated $5.2 billion in state and local tax revenues, and the travel industry placed eighth in employment ranking. For Galveston, the tourism industry is responsible for one out of three jobs on the Island, and just last year, we hosted more than 8 million tourists. The Port of Galveston is currently negotiating an operating agreement to build a fourth cruise line terminal. So, when a severe storm grinds tourism to a halt for a long period, our state, regional and local economies take a massive hit. FN: How will the Galveston Bay Storm Surge Barrier System be funded? GCPD: The project has been authorized by Congress, and we’re pursuing federal funding to get the project started. The Texas Legislature has already recognized that these supply chain protections are essential and has appropriated funding through the GLO. We have been working to get Congress to recognize that as well. We hope the Coastal Texas Project will receive some of the additional funding Congress appropriated DEALERS’ CHOICE 26
to the Corps for fiscal 2024 that the administration may distribute soon. The real money comes from the Corps construction account. To compete for that money, we must have what’s called a “new start designation,” and to have a new start designation, we need to get through the preliminary engineering design. The shovel-ready ecosystem restoration projects that the GLO is overseeing are the fastest ways to a new start designation because they can be posted for bids more quickly than the larger infrastructure projects. GCPD is prepared and able to match this amount because of funds previously appropriated by the Legislature. FN: What are the stakes if we don’t build the barrier system? GCPD: Seventy-three percent of our goods are moved via trucking. If we were to experience what Louisiana experienced in 2020, with two storms in six weeks only 12 miles apart, that would have a devastating impact not just on daily life but on the environment, business operations and supplies. Our most important supply chain is the human supply chain, or the folks who operate the product supply chains. They need to be protected from storms, or at least be given the tools to recover faster. Ports of entry are the backbone of today’s globalized economy. The central message we want to convey is that coastal storm surge protection is not just a regional problem. Houston-Galveston is a region of the state where supply chains originate and benefit manufacturers, businesses and farmers across Texas and across the country. When you consider the amount of global trade that flows through the infrastructure on the Texas coast, that’s when you see the true costs of failing to address this issue. This is clearly an issue of national, and even global, proportions. More information is available on the GCPD’s website at gcpdtexas.com. Stay tuned for additional coverage from the Comptroller’s office on the Coastal Texas Project. This article has been reprinted with permission. It was originally published in Fiscal Notes: A Review of the Texas Economy. To access the original publication, scan the QR code. https://comptroller.texas.gov/economy/fiscal-notes/ infrastructure/2024/gulf-coast-protection/ 27 DEALERS’ CHOICE
Community News ANCIRA AUTO GROUP Ancira Auto Group sponsored events during the summer which included the following. Kidd’s Kids Car Contest 2024 100% of entries purchased for the contest went to Kidd’s Kids. April Ancira meets this year’s contestants. Kidd’s Kids’ mission is to provide hope and happiness by creating beautiful memories for families of children with life-altering or life-threatening conditions! Kidd’s Kids programs have included: • The Kidd’s Kids Trip — Each November Kidd’s Kids takes a group of 30+ families to Walt Disney World for a trip of a lifetime! All expenses are taken care of including airfare, hotel, park passes, all meals, transportation while in Florida, souvenirs, special private character visits and so much more! Qualifying families have a child between the ages of 5 and 12 with a life-threatening or life-altering condition. Since 1991, Kidd’s Kids has served over 1,000 families. • Camp Kidd’s Kids — The first camp was in April 2023 and families were treated to a weekend at Morgan’s Wonderland Camp and Theme Park in San Antonio, Texas! Morgan’s Wonderland Camp is an ultra-accessible camp for everyone with a particular emphasis on giving people with physical and developmental disabilities an opportunity to enjoy summer-camp-type activities alongside guests without special needs. • Kidd’s Kids Teen Trip — Introduced in 2017, The Kidd’s Kids Teen trip is for teens ages 13-18 with life-threatening conditions. The teens’ families get to experience the major Orlando-area theme parks including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and Sea World while staying and the wonderful Give Kids The World Village. • Kidd’s Kids Glam — Pre-COVID, Kidd’s Kids Glam brought licensed estheticians to children’s hospitals to provide a day of pampering for children receiving treatment. The mini “spa day” included facials, make-up, hair styling and nail painting. Drive Away Education Raffle All summer long, News 4 and Fox San Antonio and the Ancira Community worked on the Drive Away Education Raffle. From the proceeds of over 3,000 tickets sold, Bruce Anderson of San Antonio was the grand prize winner. On Aug. 15. Bruce had a choice between five brand new vehicles including a Chevy Silverado, Nissan Frontier, Jeep Wrangler, Volkswagen Atlas and drove away in a 2024 Kia Telluride. The raffle also raised more than $415,000 statewide for school supplies for local students. DEALERS’ CHOICE 28
VICKIE AND JERRY DURANT HALL DEDICATED AT WEATHERFORD COLLEGE CAVENDER AUTO FAMILY FUNDRAISED FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS WITH GOLF TOURNAMENT Cavender Auto had a great day hosting Audi Customers and friends at their 10th Audi Dominion Quattro Cup. Over 100 golfers participated, and over $12,000 was raised at a silent auction to benefit the South Texas Chapter for Cystic Fibrosis. The first-place team advanced to the National Final at the beautiful TPC Frisco held this past October. On Aug. 7, 2024, Weatherford College (WC) celebrated at the open house of Vickie and Jerry Durant Hall. Located on the corner of East Park Avenue and College Park Drive, the 57,000-square-foot building will house students from WC’s Honors Program and Athletic programs. The facilities include a weight room, cardio room, multipurpose room and balcony. WC has an enrollment of 6,600 students for the 2024 fall semester. Vickie and Jerry Durant have owned Jerry’s Chevrolet for 54 years in Weatherford, Texas. It is very important to the Durants to give back to the community and education. None of this would be possible without them and their valued customers and wonderful employees. 29 DEALERS’ CHOICE
GREG MAY HONDA SPONSOR THE TAKING CARE OF TEACHERS SUPPLY DRIVE Greg May Honda of Waco, Texas, sponsored the Taking Care of Teachers Supply Drive where KCEN 6 News made sure teachers had what they needed for their classrooms this year. Keep up the good work, Greg May Honda! Subaru Loves Learning is a national program sponsored by Subaru of America that helps provide funding for teachers at high-needs schools across the country to purchase school supplies and resources needed to help its students succeed. City Limits Subaru in Buda, Texas, partnered with Camino Real Elementary School this fall and surprised teachers with a $15,000 donation and 25 school supply kits during a back-to-school celebration. “We’re thrilled to support our local teachers and students through the Subaru Loves Learning initiative,” said Julie Herrera, retailer principal of City Limits Subaru. To learn more about the Subaru Loves Learning initiative and the partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, visit www.subaru.com/learning or follow #SubaruLovesLearning on social media. CITY LIMITS SUBARU SUPPORTING TEACHERS THROUGH THE SUBARU LOVES LEARNING INITIATIVE DEALERS’ CHOICE 30
Auto dealer expertise. It’s just one of the many advantages of membership in our Lone Star Auto Dealers Safety Group. As a member, you’ll have access to information and resources specific to the auto dealer industry, save about 12% on your workers’ comp premium and you can even earn double dividends. To see if your company qualifies, ask your agent or contact Group Administrator Brad Wicker at brad@wickerparker.com. TEXASMUTUAL.COM/AUTODEALERS Dividends are based on performance and are not guaranteed. PREMIUM DISCOUNTS DRIVEN BY INDUSTRY EXPERTISE WORKERS’ COMP FOR AUTO DEALERS DONE RIGHT
PARK PLACE PORSCHE DALLAS ART EXHIBIT Porsche aficionados had a rare treat when Park Place Porsche Dallas hosted a Porsche Exclusive event featuring artist Costa Christ’s fine art photography printed on vintage Porsche hoods. Costa Christ is a Porsche Dallas client and his magnificent black Porsche 911 Carrera 4S was also displayed alongside his art. Costa Christ’s artworks included classic and modern Porsches in front of everyday locations such as a convenience store, McDonald’s and In-N-Out Burger restaurants. He also showcased Porsches in front of iconic Dallas landmarks like Campisi’s Restaurant. Guests even had the opportunity to commission custom artwork by Costa Christ with sales benefitting The Children’s Tumor Foundation and Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center. The event featured exquisite cuisine and fabulous cocktails from Thompson Dallas Chef Jeramie Robison and his team. Porsche Dallas gifted each guest with a leather mousepad embossed on-site with the iconic Porsche logo and a swag bag with Porsche and Costa Christ-branded items. Porsche Dallas is the only Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur in North Texas, which allows for unlimited personalization options for clients to build a Porsche that is unique to the owner. Park Place Dealerships was founded in 1987 and has been engaged in the community through its support of the arts, medical research, children’s advocacy and education. For more information, visit parkplace.com. Brian Boston, Tarrell Youngblood Thompson Dallas Chef Jeramie Robison; Park Place Porsche Dallas New Car Sales Director Pete Hodges; artist Costa Christ with wife Jackie; Park Place Porsche Dallas GM Patrick Huston CJ Contreras and Jada Peck DEALERS’ CHOICE 32
Starve your distractions. Feed your focus. Build your Legacy. NORTH PARK SUBARU TEAMING UP TO SUPPORT CANCER PATIENTS Subaru and its retailers participated in the #SubaruLovesToCare initiative, providing warmth, love and support to those in their communities facing a cancer diagnosis. Nationally, Subaru is Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) largest automotive donor, and they have supported nearly 350,000 cancer patients since this program began. Locally, both North Park Subaru and Texas Oncology have been incredible LLS supporters throughout the years. Working with both inspiring teams is a joy and honor, and we can’t thank you enough for all you do for the community! Employees with San Antonio auto dealer North Park Subaru, the local LLS office and the Texas OncologySan Antonio Downtown clinic gather to celebrate the cancer treatment provider receiving a donation from LLS and the auto dealer. The donation included 80 blankets, patient care kits and handwritten messages of hope for Texas Oncology patients. 33 DEALERS’ CHOICE
Help Your Employees Make it Home Safe Today Federated DriveSAFESM Telematics helps your employees improve their daily driving habits and return home safe at the end of the day. Commercial Insurance Property & Casualty | Life & Disability Income Workers Compensation | Business Succession and Estate Planning | Bonding Federated Mutual Insurance Company and its subsidiaries** | federatedinsurance.com *View A.M. Best Rating Guide information at www.ambest.com. **Not licensed in all states. 23.01 Ed. 8/23 © 2022 Federated Mutual Insurance Company Please Make It Home Safe Today. Scan to learn more about DriveSAFE TELEMATICS. The content of this publication is for general information purposes only. Consult with a qualified professional when you have detailed questions regarding any topic in this publication. GENE MESSER AUTO GROUP GIVING BACK The Gene Messer Auto Group in Lubbock loaded up a trailer full of food and drove it to the local Meals on Wheels office! When they got there, they helped unload it, and even got a tour around the facility! They learned about the critical need Meals on Wheels is addressing, and how great of an effort they are donating towards. Everything from the volunteer drivers to the coordinators of the routes means less Lubbock residents going hungry because of their incredible work! Over $7,000 of ready-made food was unloaded directly onto their shelves to be used immediately! Meals on Wheels serves over 1,000 meals a day with 75-100 volunteers five days a week. They also partnered with United Supermarket to put the food pallets together for transportation to the Meals on Wheels office! Way to go, Gene Messer Auto Group! LAUNCH YOUR SALES Boost Your Business by Advertising Here! (801) 676-9722 sales@thenewslinkgroup.com CONTACT US TODAY! DEALERS’ CHOICE 34
Texas Workforce Commission | Labor Market Information Department 4,237 claims Page 13 INITIAL UI CLAIMS 3.7% Page 8 JOB ADS INDEX 0.0 points Page 5 UNEMPLOYMENT RATE 78,000 jobs Page 2 INDUSTRY EMPLOYMENT August 2024 Monthly Indicators T he Texas Labor Market Review brings you the most current labor market highlights and happenings across the Lone Star State. The information that follows is produced and published on a monthly basis and includes data on nonagricultural job trends, the labor force, job postings, and other relevant indicators for both the state and sub-state areas. Additional data and historical information is available at TexasLMI.com. SEPTEMBER 2024 LABOR MARKET REVIEW TEXAS The following are the first 10 pages of the Texas Labor Market Review. To view the full report, scan the QR code. https://texaslmi.com/ downloads/tlmr_ current_edition.pdf 35 DEALERS’ CHOICE
TWC Labor Market Information 2 Total Nonagricultural Jobs Highlights • Leisure and Hospitality employment reached a new series high level in August with a monthly gain of 15,500 jobs, the largest monthly gain seen in the series since January 2023. • Construction employment rebounded from a revised July decline of 700 jobs with 8,300 positions added. • Employment in Private Education and Health Services reached a new series high as the 7,900 jobs added more than outweighed the revised drop of 5,600 in July. Industry Aug 2024 Monthly Change Annual Change Annual % Change Total Nonagricultural 14,239,200 78,000 302,400 2.2 Total Private 12,128,800 71,600 251,400 2.1 Goods Producing 2,052,900 15,800 56,100 2.8 Mining and Logging 209,500 800 -4,400 -2.1 Construction 860,900 8,300 36,600 4.4 Manufacturing 982,500 6,700 23,900 2.5 Service Providing 12,186,300 62,200 246,300 2.1 Trade, Transportation, and Utilities 2,796,200 9,600 30,800 1.1 Information 235,300 1,200 2,300 1.0 Financial Activities 927,100 7,200 21,300 2.4 Professional and Business Services 2,141,800 12,700 23,600 1.1 Private Education & Health Services 1,955,300 7,900 56,800 3.0 Leisure and Hospitality 1,527,600 15,500 43,000 2.9 Other Services 492,600 1,700 17,500 3.7 Government 2,110,400 6,400 51,000 2.5 Total Nonfarm employment easily erased monthly job losses in June and July with the addition of 78,000 positions in August. This gain brought the series to a recordhigh level of 14,239,200 and boosted the annual growth rate to 2.2 percent. Monthly growth was largely driven by gains in the Total Private sector, which posted an increase of 71,600 jobs in August and also reached a new record employment level. All 11 major industries added jobs over the month, and 10 major industries grew over the year. Six private industries achieved new series highs in August. CURRENT EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS Statewide Industry Employment (Seasonally Adjusted) DEALERS’ CHOICE 36
TWC Labor Market Information 3 Fastest Growing Metro Areas Over the Year Metro Areas Aug 2024 Monthly Change Annual Change Annual % Change Abilene MSA 78,300 400 1,400 1.8 Amarillo MSA 128,300 100 -200 -0.2 Austin-Round Rock MSA 1,357,400 6,000 18,400 1.4 Beaumont-Port Arthur MSA 166,600 900 4,400 2.7 Brownsville-Harlingen MSA 165,000 600 3,500 2.2 College Station-Bryan MSA 144,900 500 5,700 4.1 Corpus Christi MSA 200,400 500 2,000 1.0 Dallas-FW-Arlington MSA 4,308,000 28,900 66,300 1.6 Dallas-Plano-Irving MD 3,082,700 22,700 40,300 1.3 Fort Worth-Arlington MD 1,222,400 6,400 22,800 1.9 El Paso MSA 350,700 1,200 7,500 2.2 Houston MSA 3,457,700 32,300 76,600 2.3 Killeen-Temple MSA 156,500 900 2,200 1.4 Laredo MSA 113,100 200 1,900 1.7 Longview MSA 101,500 700 900 0.9 Lubbock MSA 162,100 1,000 2,200 1.4 McAllen MSA 303,500 1,200 5,300 1.8 Midland MSA 122,700 800 2,100 1.7 Odessa MSA 81,800 500 700 0.9 San Angelo MSA 53,300 200 1,200 2.3 San Antonio MSA 1,196,400 11,900 33,200 2.9 Sherman-Denison MSA 54,500 200 1,200 2.3 Texarkana MSA 60,200 100 700 1.2 Tyler MSA 117,700 200 900 0.8 Victoria MSA 40,500 100 100 0.2 Waco MSA 138,100 1,000 3,200 2.4 Wichita Falls MSA 59,800 0 800 1.4 Highlights • Employment in 25 of 26 metro areas experienced growth for a combined monthly increase of 90,600 jobs. One MSA experienced no change. As of August, 25 areas experienced positive annual job growth and 24 areas met or exceeded preCOVID employment levels set in February 2020. • The Houston-The WoodlandsSugar Land MSA added 32,300 positions. The area also posted the largest annual job growth among MAs at 76,600, for a rate of 2.3 percent. • The San Antonio-New Braunfels MSA set a new series-high employment level for the fifth month in a row with 11,900 jobs gained. The area added 33,200 jobs on a year-over-year basis. • The College Station-Bryan MSA reached a new serieshigh employment level for the seventh month in a row with the addition of 500 jobs. The annual growth rate in the area dropped to 4.1 percent but remained the highest recorded among MAs. CURRENT EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS Metro Areas (Seasonally Adjusted) 37 DEALERS’ CHOICE
Download CES data (including industry-level data) in Excel TWC Labor Market Information 4 Area Industry Composition Industry Annual Change Annual % Change 100.0% Total Nonagricultural 3,400 2.5 6.5% Mining, Logging & Construction 200 2.3 11.7% Manufacturing 100 0.6 17.4% Trade, Transportation & Utilities 100 0.4 0.7% Information 100 11.1 6.6% Financial Activities 200 2.2 9.8% Professional & Business Services 600 4.6 19.4% Private Education & Health Services 2,100 8.5 10.0% Leisure & Hospitality 300 2.2 3.0% Other Services 100 2.5 14.7% Government -400 -1.9 Mining, Logging, and Construction Manufacturing Trade, Transportation, and Utilities Information Financial Activities Professional and Business Services Private Educational and Health Services Leisure and Hospitality Other Services Government Waco MSA Area Industry Composition Industry Annual Change Annual % Change 100.0% Total Nonagricultural 4,600 2.9 12.3% Mining, Logging & Construction 1,600 8.5 13.2% Manufacturing 800 3.8 18.9% Trade, Transportation & Utilities 0 0.0 0.5% Information 0 0.0 3.9% Financial Activities 200 3.2 9.0% Professional & Business Services 100 0.7 13.6% Private Education & Health Services 1,000 4.6 10.1% Leisure & Hospitality 300 1.8 3.5% Other Services 300 5.5 14.9% Government 300 1.2 Mining, Logging, and Construction Manufacturing Trade, Transportation, and Utilities Information Financial Activities Professional and Business Services Private Educational and Health Services Leisure and Hospitality Other Services Government Beaumont-Port Arthur MSA Area Industry Composition Industry Annual Change Annual % Change 100.0% Total Nonagricultural 5,400 4.0 5.7% Mining, Logging & Construction 0 0.0 4.5% Manufacturing 100 1.6 13.5% Trade, Transportation & Utilities 600 3.3 1.1% Information 0 0.0 3.6% Financial Activities 100 2.0 9.5% Professional & Business Services -300 -2.2 11.7% Private Education & Health Services 700 4.5 14.8% Leisure & Hospitality 1,900 10.2 2.9% Other Services 200 5.1 32.7% Government 2,100 4.8 Mining, Logging, and Construction Manufacturing Trade, Transportation, and Utilities Information Financial Activities Professional and Business Services Private Educational and Health Services Leisure and Hospitality Other Services Government College Station-Bryan MSA CURRENT EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS Fastest Growing Metro Areas Over-the-Year (Not Seasonally Adjusted) DEALERS’ CHOICE 38
TWC Labor Market Information 5 2.0% 2.5% 3.0% 3.5% 4.0% 4.5% 5.0% 5.5% Florida Pennsylvania Georgia North Carolina Texas New York Michigan Ohio California Illinois Texas OTM Increase OTM Decline Current Rate 10 Largest States' Unemployment Rates Highlights • Over the month the Texas seasonally adjusted unemployment rate remained at 4.1 percent, one-tenth of a percentage point lower than the U.S. rate of 4.2 percent. • The state’s seasonally adjusted labor force participation rate was 64.4 percent in August. • Texas’ seasonally adjusted LAUS employment was up 40,000 from last month. • Summarizing the not seasonally adjusted estimates, the Texas unemployment rate remained at 4.4 percent in August. This was 0.2 percentage points higher than the unemployment rate in August 2023. U.S. August 2024 Employed 161,434,000 Unemployed 7,115,000 1 2 4.2% Date CLF Employment Unemployment Rate August 2024 168,549,000 161,434,000 7,115,000 4.2 July 2024 168,429,000 161,266,000 7,163,000 4.3 August 2023 167,840,000 161,500,000 6,340,000 3.8 Texas August 2024 Employed 14,771,400 Unemployed 627,000 1 2 4.1% Date CLF Employment Unemployment Rate August 2024 15,398,400 14,771,400 627,000 4.1 July 2024 15,353,600 14,731,400 622,300 4.1 August 2023 15,120,500 14,524,600 595,900 3.9 LOCAL AREA UNEMPLOYMENT STATISTICS Texas & the U.S. (Seasonally Adjusted) DEALERS’ CHOICE 40
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