2025 Pub. 3 Issue 2 Rudy Dossett, Jr.A Legend in the Automotive Industry
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©2025 The Mississippi Auto Dealers Association (MADA) | The newsLINK Group LLC. All rights reserved. Mississippi Auto Dealer is published four times per year by The newsLINK Group LLC for MADA 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 circumstances. The statements and opinions expressed in this publication are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of MADA, 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. Mississippi Auto Dealer is a collective work, and as such, some articles are submitted by authors who are independent of MADA. While a first-print policy is encouraged, 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. 6 14 CHAIR’S MESSAGE 4 A Heartfelt Thank You By Paxton King, Chairman, MADA 6 No Budget, Big Headlines 2025 Legislative Session Ends in Gridlock 8 Legislators Recognize Trudy Moody as the Mississippi TIME Dealer of the Year 9 2025 Alabama-Mississippi-Tennessee Car & Truck Dealers Convention June 22-25, 2025 RUDY DOSSETT, JR. A Legend in the Automotive Industry NEXTGEN DEALER 14 Getting to Know Taylor Whatley 16 Congratulations, Doug Wilson! 2025 Farrington Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year Award Winner 17 Congratulations, Michael Joe Cannon! 2025 Recipient of the Mississippi Valley State University Founders Award 19 MADA Associate Members CONTENTS2025 Pub. 3 Issue 2 10 3
A HEARTFELT THANK YOU Chair’s Message By Paxton King, Chairman, MADA This will be my final message as chairman of MADA, and what a year it has been. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve and will always cherish the experience. Like many who came before me, I didn’t fully grasp the value and impact of MADA until I had the privilege of serving in this role. From going to our nation’s capital or advocating at the Mississippi Capitol, I’ve seen firsthand that MADA is the unwavering voice of Mississippi’s franchised dealers. Our industry plays a vital role in our state’s economy, and I’m proud to be part of it. To put that into perspective, franchised dealers in Mississippi employ more than 19,000 of our fellow citizens and contribute over $458 million in state tax revenue. In 2024 alone, our dealerships gave back millions of dollars to local communities. MADA continues to protect the laws that uphold fair competition and ensure a level playing field for all. Reflecting on this past year, I have many people to thank. First and foremost, my wife, Erin, has been my biggest cheerleader and supporter. My father, Stan King, whose belief in me and his wisdom continue to guide me through this journey as an automobile dealer. I’m also incredibly thankful to MADA President Marty Milstead and Beth Morton, who make the day-to-day operations look easy and have made my role as chairman all the more enjoyable. And, of course, thank you to the MADA officers and Board of Directors — your dedication and encouragement have meant the world to me. We are fortunate to have such a strong and unified association. I truly cannot imagine a future without MADA standing up for our industry. As dealers, we’ll always compete on the showroom floor — but when it comes to protecting our shared interests, we must stand together. Though my term as chairman concludes at the June convention, I plan to remain actively involved in MADA. Thank you again for the privilege of serving as your chairman. Paxton King Chairman 4
The Mississippi Legislature officially adjourned for 2025 — but not with a flourish. Lawmakers left town without passing a state budget, setting the stage for a special session to be called by the Governor. The failure to pass a budget was the dramatic finale of a session marked by high-profile disagreements between House and Senate leadership. A TYPO MAKES TAX HISTORY No bill drew more attention than House Bill 1, the latest installment in the push to eliminate Mississippi’s income tax. The House and Senate passed their own versions of a tax plan but ultimately settled on the Senate tax plan, which was signed by the Governor. But the Senate’s version drew a lot of attention for having an unintended benchmark in the legislation. The Senate wanted a fiscal trigger that would activate only when state revenues hit 85% of a designated benchmark in 2031. But a crucial typo dropped a decimal where it didn’t belong — setting the trigger at just 0.85%. Rather than fix the error, House leaders doubled down and passed the flawed version. Governor Reeves, a longtime advocate of ending the income tax, eagerly signed it into law, effectively locking in the mishap. Since the trigger wouldn’t activate for another six years, lawmakers figure there’s plenty of time to clean it up — assuming the political will to do so still exists in 2031. BUDGET BREAKDOWN: HOUSE WALKS, SENATE FUMES If tax policy was the headline, the budget breakdown was the cliffhanger. In a sharp departure from tradition, House Speaker Jason White made clear early in the session that his chamber wouldn’t participate in last-minute “conference weekend” budget negotiations. And he meant it. Instead of hashing out differences, the Senate and House adjourned, leaving the state without a budget. With no budget, Governor Reeves must now call a special session to avoid a government shutdown before July 30, the last day of the state’s fiscal year. PBM BILL FIZZLES AFTER LAST-MINUTE MANEUVER A major legislative push to rein in Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) also failed in the final days, this time on a technicality. After weeks of tense negotiations between lawmakers, independent pharmacies, and large employers, HB 1123 emerged from the conference committee as a compromise. The bill included a key exemption for federally self-insured plans (ERISA), a move supported by business groups wary of rising healthcare costs. But the bill’s fate was sealed not by policy differences, but by process. New code sections were added during conference, a violation of House rules unless a point of order is raised. When that point was called on the House floor, the bill was promptly killed. Just like that, months of advocacy and negotiation evaporated. CYBER LIABILITY BILL CRASHES IN CONFERENCE Another notable casualty was HB 1380, a bill backed by MADA and other business groups. The legislation sought to shield businesses from lawsuits following cyberattacks, provided they followed federal cybersecurity protocols. In the wake of last year’s CDK Global hack, which paralyzed dealerships across the country, MADA and its allies pushed hard for the protections. Dealers who used companies like ComplyAuto would have enjoyed additional liability immunity under the proposed law. But in a procedural stumble, the Senate’s conference committee members failed to gather the required signatures. Two of the three conferees — Senators Mike Thompson and Derek Simmons — refused to sign off, effectively dooming the bill. Both had been appointed by Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann. No Budget, Big Headlines 2025 Legislative Session Ends in Gridlock 6
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Legislators Recognize TRUDY MOODY as the Mississippi TIME Dealer of the Year Sen. Walter Michelle and Rep. Jill Ford went to Mercedes-Benz of Jackson to present the 2025 Mississippi TIME Dealer of the Year (TDOY), Trudy Moody, with a commending resolution adopted during this year’s legislative session. The TDOY award celebrates not only business excellence but also a profound commitment to community service. Below is from Rep. Ford’s Facebook post: Trudy’s journey in the automotive industry is both inspiring and commendable. A second-generation dealer, she began her career as general manager of Mercedes-Benz of Daytona Beach in 1994. In 2001, she and her father acquired Mercedes-Benz of Jackson, where she has since led with vision and integrity. Her leadership extends to other family-owned dealerships, including Mercedes-Benz of Collierville in Tennessee and Tidelands Ford in South Carolina. Beyond her business acumen, Trudy has been a pillar in our community. She has served in various leadership roles within the Mississippi Automobile Dealers Association, including chair in 2024. Her advocacy has strengthened the franchise system and supported legislation beneficial to local dealerships. Trudy’s philanthropic efforts are equally noteworthy. She actively supports numerous organizations, including the Batson Children’s Hospital at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where she is a member of the Friends of Children’s Hospital. Her commitment to education and community development is evident through her involvement with St. Andrew’s Episcopal School, the Salvation Army and the Madison County Business League & Foundation, among others. Trudy’s dedication to excellence, both in business and community service, exemplifies the very best of Mississippi. Congratulations, Trudy, on this well-deserved recognition! 8
June 22-25, 2025 HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA Pack your bags and get ready for some family fun on the beach, along with many networking opportunities, some amazing guest speakers and educational opportunities. We are looking forward to seeing you soon! Register today at madaonline.com or scan the QR code. 9
Rudy Dossett, Jr. A Legend in the Automotive Industry 10
In the town of Tupelo, Mississippi, there is a population of 37,000 but a daily workforce of 84,000 according to the Community Development Foundation (CDF). It is also the home of Dossett Big 4 and has been constant in the community for 45 years. Rudy “Big Rudy” Dossett, and his namesake, “Little Rudy,” have taken care of the community’s transportation needs the only way they know how: by building relationships, exceeding expectations and creating a positive experience where customers become friends, and friends return with repeat business. When asked about the dealership’s success, Rudy is quick to mention that none of this would be possible without his lovely wife, Sandra “Sandy” Elizabeth. The two purchased the store together in 1980. At the time, prime interest rates were 21%, which prompted the previous owner to sell the dealership. “Everyone wanted to commit me for buying anything at 21%,” Rudy recalled. “That is everyone except my wife. She trusted me.” Under the new ownership of Rudy and Sandra, Dossett Big 4 opened for business on July 1, 1980. It was then that Rudy and Sandra made an agreement — Rudy would focus his time and energy on work so he could provide for the family, and Sandra would be the monarch of the house, focus her efforts on the home and take care of their two children, Little Rudy and Noel. “Sandy is a critical part of the equation. She has freed me up so I can focus on the car business six days a week. 11
On Sundays, I give God time while I am at church, and then, I get right back to thinking about the car business. Things have worked out very, very well for us,” Rudy said. Dossett Big 4 was not the first time the name “Dossett” was featured at a dealership. In fact, at one point, there were 12 dealerships proudly showcasing the family name in the state of Mississippi. Rudy actually got his start in the auto business when he worked for his brother, Danny Dossett in Hattiesburg, at Dossett GMC Cadillac, who just celebrated 50 years in business. But the family ties to the auto industry go even further back. “The first in this industry was my father, ‘Slim’ RB Dossett. He purchased a dealership in Natchez, Mississippi, with his brother, Clarence ‘CE’ Dossett,” Rudy said. “CE actually served as MADA chairman in 1982. Our family has supported MADA in various ways throughout the years.” Rudy has served on numerous MADA committees, helping to keep the association growing strong. “I do my part where I can because I firmly believe in MADA’s mission. I would not do it otherwise because it’s a hell of a long drive from Tupelo to Jackson for the meetings,” Rudy chuckled. If anyone knows Rudy, they know that he is the embodiment of Southern charm. His blend of kindness and wit, mixed with a strong sense of hospitality, leans perfectly into the auto business, and for decades, he has used his sunny disposition to build a steady flow of repeat customers. However, when it came to making hard decisions for the dealership, Rudy came to understand the power of saying “No.” For years, during the months of February and March, Dossett Big 4 held its annual Rebel-Bulldog sales competition. The winning team was rewarded with hot-off-the-grill ribeye steaks. The losing team had to eat cold beans from a can. This event became nothing short of a much-anticipated, fun tradition. Eventually, representatives from Mississippi State University (MSU) decided that the dealership would have to pay a $25,000 licensing fee to continue using the school’s name, mascot, emblems, etc. Representatives from MSU showed up at the dealership and broke the news to Rudy. They told Rudy to take three days and think it over. Without hesitation, Rudy replied, “I can tell you in three seconds. No!” The annual sale is now Maroon & White vs. Red & Blue, and there are still steaks and beans at the end. On another occasion, a representative from the Cadillac Corporate Office showed up at the dealership. He proceeded to tell Rudy that he would change this, he would do that, and that he would spend $291,000 to electrify the shop for the onslaught of incoming EV orders. The direct and blunt dictates from the corporate representative were immediately met with a decisive and firm “No!” from Rudy. It was on that day that Dossett Big 4 and Cadillac parted ways. But, Cadillac authorized Dossett Big 4 to continue to perform Cadillac warranty work for Cadillac owners in the future. Today, at the young age of 84, Rudy still shows up to the office every day but has taken an advisory role. His son has taken over the day-to-day operations of the dealership. “I do not take a direct role. I’m here to listen, give advice and never supersede the authority that comes from my son. He makes the calls, right, wrong or indifferent,” Rudy said. “I have had several people come to me and want to discuss business behind closed doors with just the two of us. I let them know that’s not how things work. One of these people even said, ‘Well, your name is on the sign.” And I told him that doesn’t 12
From day one, four main values have been promoted by the Dossett Big 4 in regard to how both employees and customers were treated at the dealership. First, always display a positive attitude; second, lead by example; third, be open-minded and fair; and last but not least, always do the right thing. And that pretty much covers everything. These four values have been posted in every place in the dealership that is public facing. As Rudy passes the mantle, he is making sure that these values are passed on as well. Looking ahead, Rudy is optimistic, “The future is bright for the automotive industry. We’re going through a tough time right now, but tough times always pass. This is a very rewarding business, and if you’re successful, you’ll have freedom like you’ve never experienced.” Being kind is key to continual success, “You can’t imagine the positive impact you have on a family when they buy a new or a pre-owned car, and they’re happy with it. It’s their second most major purchase, with their home being first,” he said. “You can’t last in this business for 45 years by dumping on people. Making sure the customers are happy comes down to being kind. Kindness creates friendships and keeps the repeat business coming back. After all, we’re not just selling cars, we’re building relationships.” mean a thing. He needed to talk to Little Rudy because he makes the decisions now.” The agreement between Rudy and Sandy made all those years ago still holds strong today. Sandy continues to oversee the household, although the children are all grown up. She fostered in them a strong foundation of leadership and integrity. While Little Rudy runs Dossett Big 4, Rudy and Sandy’s daughter, Noel Russell, owns and operates a unique furniture company called Warehouse 605. It is the go-to place for locals to decorate and furnish their homes beautifully. Little Rudy and Noel are constantly supporting their community in their own ways, following in the footsteps of their father. 13
Getting to Know Taylor Whatley Taylor Whatley is a second-generation new car dealer and managing partner at Mike Whatley Honda, located in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Taylor has spent a cumulative 20 years in the automotive industry. He grew up around the car business, often going to work with his father, Mike Whatley. Early in his career, Taylor made the decision to leave the retail automotive side of the industry and the family business. He spent five years working for the Acura Division of American Honda Motor Co. before returning to the family business. Having worked on both sides of the industry, Taylor gained a uniquely broad and strong foundation upon which he is building a successful career. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Taylor and learned more about his career path, his membership in MADA, and what the future holds. The following are excerpts from our conversation. Please tell us about Mike Whatley Honda. What makes the dealership unique? Our story starts back in 2005 in Louisiana. My father and mother, and their business partners expanded outside of the state and made an investment in this dealership. After about six years, my family was able to purchase it outright. That started the Mike Whatley Honda era. Next year, we will be celebrating 20 years in Brookhaven. Our longevity and many accolades are because of the people who work here. The team makes it all possible, as do our loyal customers. We have been acknowledged as a president’s award-winning dealership five times and were one of the first dealerships in the state of Mississippi to receive the Council of Parts and Service Professionals award. Last year, we were recognized for our overall customer experience satisfaction, finishing in the top 15 in the nation out of over 1,100 Honda dealerships. Recently, we discovered that our dealership won the Council of Excellence Award for the second consecutive year and only 1 of 2 Honda dealers in the state! As I mentioned, all of this goes back to our people. Many of whom worked here before we purchased the dealership. Our employee longevity speaks to the uniqueness of the store and the familiarity within the community. In addition to our upcoming 20-year anniversary, we have some huge employee anniversaries — 22, 24 and 25 years working here. Have you had any specialized training or education? When I graduated from Mississippi State with a degree in business and communications, I started doing some digital marketing for the dealership, helping to build up our online presence and assisting with the website. I was also attending finance school prior to my opportunity with the factory. In January of 2016, I started with American Honda Motor Co. Acura Division, serving a multitude of roles for the OEM and building on my automotive foundation. By the time I came back to the dealership, the COVID pandemic was raging. We didn’t know what one day looked like to NextGen Dealer 14
the next, what we were going to be doing or what business was going to look like when the pandemic ended. So I took advantage of the time and signed up for NADA Academy. I was in the first virtual class they held. We completed everything online, which is the exact opposite of the traditional presentation of going for a week to learn a curriculum and then for the next eight weeks apply it at the dealership. I’m thankful for the virtual learning experience because twice a week, as soon as I’d finish my class, I could apply what I’d learned. I’m very thankful for that experience; it’s been extremely instrumental in many of our successes. Have you had any mentors and what did you learn from them? My dad’s always had the saying, “It’s your attitude, not your aptitude, that ultimately determines your altitude.” He came from air traffic control and my grandfather an FAA examiner, so the use of pilot lingo is common in our family. That statement has always been his motto. No matter where you go or what you do, it’s always applicable. There have been many other people who have helped me throughout my professional career. It’s hard for me to list all of them, but I’ve learned a tremendous amount, both professionally and personally, from some amazing people. The many lessons I learned from my mentors somehow all come back to community and people. Taking care of our customers is the most important thing. Without them, we have nothing. What has been the most rewarding part of your career to this point? The most rewarding part is being able to help the dealership thrive. Implementing those processes and procedures I observed during my time working for the factory and from NADA Academy have been instrumental in our successes. We’ve grown tremendously, and have to give credit where it’s due. Where do you see yourself and the dealership in the next threefive years? Things are always evolving, and as far as growth goes, I try to take that one step at a time. As far as the next three to five years, I’d say it’s pretty straightforward: Take care of our customers and meet them where their needs are. In addition, the industry is ever-changing. Decisions made today will shape our future for years to come. By implementing the appropriate processes or technology to help us provide the most convenience for our customers, we will be prepared for whatever comes. How long have you been a member of MADA? What benefits does association membership bring? Mike Whatley Honda has been a member of MADA for as long as I can remember. My father, Mike, served on the executive committee for seven years and as the chairman of the association in 2016. My participation in the association started in 2020 once I returned back to retail from the factory. I reached out to Marty and asked what I could do to begin contributing to MADA. It was then the early discussions began of bringing NextGen to MADA. As a part of NextGen, Marty has allowed us to begin participation in board meetings, giving us lots of early exposure to what’s to come. In addition, we’ve been visiting the capital with MADA to show our support to our state representatives who are instrumental in protecting our industry. The benefits of the association largely outweigh the commitment that Marty asks of us. MADA is always hard at work at the U.S. and State Capitol, maintaining relationships that our industry needs and helping to protect the people that we employ as well as the people we serve. Membership is a no-brainer — if you’re in this industry, you need to be a part of the association. What is your favorite way to spend time when you are not working? My girlfriend, Griselda and I just added a new dachshund to the family, that makes number three. We’ve been spending a lot of time training and making sure she’s getting along with her brothers. Right now, it’s basketball playoff time. I’m a big basketball fan. Unfortunately, my team’s not doing too great, but I am enjoying watching the playoffs. Driving is something I am passionate about. Whether it’s racing or drifting, I enjoy driving; it gets my adrenaline going. Other than that, I like to be outdoors. Griselda and I have visited a number of national parks, most recently, Zion National Park in Utah. We hope to visit them all one day. 15
Congratulations, Doug Wilson! 2025 Farrington Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year Award Winner Each year, the Ole Miss business school selects one business or entrepreneur to recognize as the Farrington Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year. The winners are nominated by the community and selected by the Dean of the School of Business Administration, Ken Cyree. This year, Doug was given this recognition. Located at 10 Conner Hall on the campus of the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) is the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE). The mission of the CIE, as part of the university’s business school, is to inspire students to create innovative businesses by providing them with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to become successful entrepreneurs. As a graduate of Ole Miss and an entrepreneur in his own right, Doug Wilson, CEO of Wilson Auto Group, is proud to do his part to help students in the CEI program. As a judge of the CIE Landshark Tank competition, Doug feels humbled and privileged to listen to each student’s pitch about their business idea and have the opportunity to award cash prizes for the students to invest in their budding businesses. The stakes are high for these brilliant students as they need to show that their idea addresses a clearly defined pain point, solves that problem and that there is a clearly viable business within the idea — all of that in just a one-minute pitch! “These kids have some unbelievable ideas. There is one who started a security company, and some of them have started technology companies. The ideas are incredible! It’s fun for me and other judges to sit on the panel,” Doug said. “I’ve started several automotive-related businesses and a car dealership throughout my career. I know what it takes, and I’m happy to be able to give back in this way.” The Ole Miss Business School experienced record enrollment this year, the highest in the school’s over 200-year history. And programs like CIE and Landshark Tank are gaining a national reputation for excellence in all the things that they’re doing. In fact, Entrepreneurship is now a major at Ole Miss. The professors guide students in writing business plans, obtaining patents on their ideas and connecting them with Angel Investors to fund their ideas. Upon the presentation of the award, Doug said, “Thank you to Lawrence and Jan Farrington for their generous gifts to the Ole Miss Business School and for sponsoring this award. It’s been a pleasure to sit beside Jan as a judge on the student entrepreneurship competitions.” In appreciation of Doug’s many contributions to the school, Glenn Boyce, Chancellor of Ole Miss, shared the following: “Congratulations on being awarded the Farrington Entrepreneur of the Year award, Doug. You are incredibly deserving, and I am certainly proud of our university for selecting you. I look forward to seeing you on campus soon.” 16
Congratulations, Michael Joe Cannon! 2025 Recipient of the Mississippi Valley State University Founders Award Mississippi Valley State University (MSVU) celebrated its 75th Founder’s Day under the theme, “A Celebration of Service: A Legacy Unveiled.” A whole week of events, honoring the institution’s enduring legacy, commitment to service, and the pioneers who came before, was concluded at the J.H. White Foundation’s Annual Scholarship Gala on Friday, April 11. While at the gala, in a spirit of gratitude and acknowledgment, a representative from MSVU presented Michael Joe Cannon, Owner of Cannon Motors of Mississippi, with the prestigious Founders Award. “I’m incredibly humbled to have received the award. To be recognized by an institution with such a rich legacy of excellence, service and impact means more than words can express,” Michael Joe said. MSVU was established in 1950 with the express purpose of training teachers for rural and elementary schools and to provide vocational training. Since then, the school has expanded a couple of times and now offers a number of undergraduate and graduate programs. In addition, MVSU has a median undergraduate tuition of $7,394, far below the national average of $23,996. The school’s commitment to educating the community and improving lives through imparting knowledge and skills is second to none. Under Michael Joe’s leadership, Cannon Motors has been a huge supporter of the university for many years. “We know that it’s a vital part of our community and we need it to succeed because when it succeeds, we do as well,” Michael Joe stated. Support for MSVU is shown in several ways, such as yearly fundraisers to raise money to support the MSVU athletic program and providing the university president with a car to drive. “Cannon Motors has had the benefit of some brilliant MVSU interns, but more importantly, a lot of the folks who work at the school are our customers and have been our customers for years,” Michael Joe said. “Not only are they customers, but they are friends. We have been blessed in many ways by MVSU.” For Michael Joe, as is the case with car dealers in Mississippi and across the country, giving back is a way of life. “Car dealers are some of the most giving people in their communities. There are many different ways we show support,” Michael Joe said. “I’m proud to be a new car dealer and to represent the profession. This award is a true reflection of the generosity of car dealers: It’s not all about taking. You have to give back to the community.” 17
• Labor Relations • Employee handbooks • Employment Law Counseling and Litigation • HR Policies and procedures • Independent contractor issues • OSHA Compliance and defense • Purchasing or selling a dealership • Staffing and contingent workers • Workers’ Compensation • Wage and hour law Steve Cupp Partner | Gulfport/New Orleans 228.822.1440 scupp@fisherphillips.com Fisher Phillips brings valuable legal counsel to MADA members. Our labor and employment law firm offers auto dealerships the following services: A driving force in labor and employment law for more than 70 years. fisherphillips.com 2505 14th Street | Suite 300 | Gulfport, MS 39501 TAKE US ANYWHERE! Scan to read the most recent publication. Stay up to date from your couch, office or even the moon! Place a 1” x 1” QR Code White on Black Here to the main website Place this indd file at 100% and place an image or pdf of THIS ISSUE’S COVER in a frame that is 12p9 by 16p6 (2.125” x 2.75”) to cover this text. Then proportionally resize the whole thing as needed. 18
MADA Associate Members Aaron Oil Company Clint Denning 713 Bill Myles Dr. Saraland, AL 36571 (251) 689-0383 clintdenning@tradebe.com aaronoil.com ACV Auctions Pam Patton 640 Ellicott St., Ste. 321 Buffalo, NY 14203 (412) 303-8999 ppatton@acvauctions.com www.acvauctions.com Ally Financial David Luke 1735 N. Brown Rd., Ste. 500 Lawrenceville, GA 30043 (901) 378-5065 david.luke@ally.com www.ally.com/auto American Fidelity Assurance Co. Steve O’Kane 9000 Cameron Pkwy. Oklahoma City, OK 73114 (800) 654-8489, ext. 2485 steve.o’kane@americanfidelity.com americanfidelity.com Armatus Dealer Uplift Joe Jankowski 50 Schilling Rd., Ste. 200 Hunt Valley, MD 21031 (443) 391-5701 joej@dealeruplift.com www.dealeruplift.com Assurant Dealer Services Brett Malbrough 1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Ste. 700 The Woodlands, TX 77380 (312) 356-3000 brett.malbrough@assurant.com www.assurant.com Bank of America Thomas Ballard 3455 Peachtree Rd. NE Atlanta, GA 30326 (770) 364-7078 thomas.ballard@bofa.com www.bankofamerica.com BGFI Greg Richeson PO Box 190792 Atlanta, GA 31119 (404) 680-5828 baldguyfandi@gmail.com Bo Haarala Autoplex Karen Fears 1003 S. Frontage Rd. Meridian, MS 39301 (601) 482-7539 khfears@yahoo.com www.bohautoplex.com Brightline Dealer Advisors Stephen Pate 15301 Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 500 Addison, TX 75001 (205) 242-8908 spate@brightlinedealer.com Pat Sanders (256) 882-2105 psanders@brightlinedealer.com www.brightlinedealeradvisors.com Brown & Brown Dealer Services Jim Fahrner 2798 New Port Royal Rd. Thompsons Station, TN 37179 (615) 445-5879 jim.fahrner@bbrown.com www.bbrown.com/specialties/dealer-services CCMSI Donna Allen PO Box 1378 Ridgeland, MS 39158 (601) 608-1001 dallen@ccmsi.com www.ccmsi.com CCMSI John Burns PO Box 1378 Ridgeland, MS 39158 (601) 899-0148 jburns@ccmsi.com www.ccmsi.com Century Construction Group, Inc. Betsy Dowell 400 W. Parkway Pl., Ste. 200 Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 591-3413 bdowell@centurycg.com centurycg.com Columbus Motor Company Judy Younger 2302 Main St. Columbus, MS 39701 (662) 328-1430 columbusmotorco@bellsouth.net ComplyAuto Privacy LLC Hao Nguyen 299 S. Main Ste., Ste. 1300 PMB 93125 Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (661) 214-9760 hao@complyauto.com complyauto.com Cooley Motor Company Bob Cooley 1117 Mississippi Dr. Waynesboro, MS 39367 (601) 735-4323 cooleymotorco@bellsouth.net Cox Automotive Polly Penna 3003 Summit Blvd. Atlanta, GA 30319 (516) 547-2242 polly.penna@coxautoinc.com www.coxautoinc.com Dealers Auto Auction of Jackson Jessica Williams 1657 Old Whitfield Rd. PO Box 97509 Pearl, MS 39288 (601) 956-2700 jwilliams@dealersauto.com dealersauto.com Dealer Merchant Services Laura Mellencamp 13140 Coit Rd., #364 Dallas, TX 75240 (817) 404-9523 laura@dealermerchantservices.com dealermerchantservices.com Dealerslink Randy Roberts 11001 W. 120th Ave., Ste. 400 Brookfield, CO 80021 (256) 424-3723 randy.roberts@dealerslink.com public.dealerslink.com 19
Dealer Services Network Henry Casey 3155 SW 10th, Ste. D Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 (985) 507-1189 henry@expressomv.com www.dsn.net DSMA Greg Brown 200 S. Wacker Dr., Ste. 3100 Chicago, IL 60606 (615) 714-8612 greg.brown@dsma.com dsma.com Diversified Dealers Association Thomas J. Loup 5001 Hwy. 190, Ste. D-4, Office 4 Covington, LA 70433 (985) 630-8900 thomasjloup@gmail.com diversifieddealers.com Dixie Auto Group Patrick Sellers 15673 Hwy. 8 W. Grenada, MS 38901 (662) 226-5637 psellers@dixieautoauction.com www.dixieautoauction.com Dominion DMS Arlene Clements 1515 S. Federal Hwy., Ste. 406 Boca Raton, FL 33432 (858) 693-3684 arlene.clements@dominiondms.com www.dominiondms.com Dynatron Software Maureen Martin 2703 Telecom Pkwy., Ste. 140A Richardson, TX 75082 (972) 663-5998 mmartin@dynatronsoftware.com www.dynatronsoftware.com Epic Insurance Brokers & Consultants Cameron Crane 2720 3rd Ave. S., Ste. 100 Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 581-3345 cameron.crane@epicbrokers.com www.epicbrokers.com Fisher & Phillips LLP Steve Cupp 2505 14th St., Ste. 300 Gulfport, MS 39501 (228) 822-1440 scupp@fisherphillips.com www.fisherphillips.com Frank Hamilton Sims/ DEALERPLUS Frank H. Sims 6301 Piccadilly Square Dr. Mobile, AL 36609 (251) 342-5669 fhsinc@mindspring.com dealerplusinsurance.com Gallagher Insurance Services Charlie Chandler 525 E. Capitol St., 2nd Fl. Jackson, MS 39201 (601) 366-3436 charlie.chandler@ajg.com www.ajg.com GM Financial Jacob Hooper 801 Cherry St. Fort Worth, TX 76102 (225) 614-4667 jacob.hooper@gmfinancial.com GPW & Associates Inc. Bryan Dobson 3101 N. Central Ave., Ste. 200 Phoenix, AZ 85012 (602) 812-4198 bdobson@gpwa.com www.gpwa.com GSFS Group Matthew Strakna 1345 Enclave Pkwy. Houston, TX 77077 (346) 342-6404 mstrakna@gsfsgroup.com www.gsfsgroup.com Henderson Hutcherson & McCullough PLLC Travis M. Horton 1200 Market St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 756-7771 thorton@hhmcpas.com www.hhmcpas.com Holmes Motors Inc. Kathy Atkins 10651 Boney Ave. D’Iberville, MS 39540 (228) 392-4054 andrear@holmesmotrs.com www.holmesmotors.com Hoyt Hayes Construction Brad Hayes PO Box 1028 Jackson, TN 38302 (731) 664-3021 brad@hoythayes.com Insurance Office of America Paul W. Elliott 18300 Scenic Hwy., Ste. F Fairhope, AL 36532 (205) 908-8792 paul.elliott@ioausa.com ioausa.com iOne Benefits Group Tracy Davis 3964 Goodman Rd., Ste. 202 Southaven, MS 38672 (662) 419-4319 tdavis@ionebenefits.com www.ionebenefits.com JM&A Tony Carroll 1405 Thaddeus Cv. Austin, TX 78746 (512) 423-9648 tony.carroll@jmagroup.com www.jmagroup.com Kirk Brothers Powersports Cannon Kirk 2001 Mabyline St. Greenwood, MS 38930 (662) 453-5646 cannonkirk05@yahoo.com www.kirkbrotherspowersports.com MetroTech Automotive Tyler Parker 2101 Wilkinson Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28208 (954) 242-1102 tparker@metrotechauto.com www.metrotechauto.com MADA ASSOCIATE MEMBERS 20
NADA Retirement Empower Jeff Liwacz 8515 E. Orchard Rd., 10T2 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 (609) 529-3546 jeff.liwacz@empower-retirement.com www.empower-retirement.com Paragon Dealer Services Bob McKinney 505 Energy Center Blvd., Ste. 604 Northport, AL 35473 (205) 349-3158 paragon267@gmail.com paragondealerservices.com Performance Brokerage Services Jimmy Robinson 2102 W. Cleveland St. Tampa, FL 33606 (615) 804-1625 jimmy@performancebrokerageservices.com performancebrokerageservices.com Portfolio Ryan Cassidy 20 Cabot Blvd., Ste. 400 Mansfield, MA 02048 (800) 761-4546 rcassidy@portfolioco.com www.portfolioreinsurance.com Premium Review Specialist Inc. Ronnie Fulton PO Box 5575 Brandon, MS 39047 (601) 278-9356 rgfulton@gmail.com Priority Payment Systems Local Victor Lastorino 172 Monmouth St. Redbank, NJ 07701 (732) 374-3834 victor@pplocal.io pplocal.com ProBilling and Funding Service Jeff Kirkland PO Box 2222 Decatur, AL 35609 (256) 736-4349 jeff.kirkland@probfs.com www.probfs.com Reynolds & Reynolds Matthew Jaeger 2744 Misty Rock Cv. Dacula, GA 30019 (678) 457-4605 matthew_jaeger@reyrey.com www.reyrey.com Safe-Guard Products International Tim Bewsher Two Concourse Pkwy., Ste. 500 Atlanta, GA 30328 (404) 545-3753 tbewsher@sgintl.com www.safe-guardproducts.com Safety National Dustin Miller 2950 N. Loop W., Ste. 500 Houston, TX 77092 (832) 564-0030 dustin.miller@safetynational.com www.safetynational.com Seal Tractor Company Wil Seal PO Box 835 Woodville, MS 39669 (601) 888-4253 wil@sealtractor.com www.sealtractor.com Stephens Inc. Ken Hall Barnett 140 Township Ave., Ste. 202 Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 605-5666 kenhall.barnett@stephens.com www.stephens.com StrategicSource Chris Austin 8674 Eagle Creek Cir. Savage, MN 55378 (612) 386-3898 caustin@strategicsource.com strategicsource.com The Nowell Agency Colton Farris 1500 Old Fannin Rd. Brandon, MS 39047 (601) 992-4444 colton.farris@nowellagency.com www.nowellagency.com True Car Lauren Bailey 615 Elm Ave. Columbia, SC 29205 (703) 909-1625 lbailey@truecar.com www.truecar.com Trustmark National Bank Heath Jordan 1029 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ste. 2000 Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 208-2926 hjordan@trustmark.com www.trustmark.com United Dealer Services Tony Hancock 232 Market St. Flowood, MS 39232 (769) 610-3551 tony@udsagency.com udsagency.com Versant Group Keith Decell PO Box 84410 Baton Rouge, LA 70884 (225) 921-9625 keith.decell@theversantgroup.com theversantgroup.com Versant Group Brandon Choina PO Box 84410 Baton Rouge, LA 70884 (337) 515-5398 brandon.choina@theversantgroup.com therversantgroup.com Versant Group Rick Barnett PO Box 84410 Baton Rouge, LA 70884 (954) 695-0541 rick.barnett@theversantgroup.com theversantgroup.com Versant Group Kenny Roberts PO Box 84410 Baton Rouge, LA 70884 (601) 616-5354 kenny.roberts@theversantgroup.com theversantgroup.com MADA ASSOCIATE MEMBERS 21
Versant Group Michael McLellan PO Box 84410 Baton Rouge, LA 70884 (662) 801-3571 michael.mclellan@theversantgroup.com theversantgroup.com Versant Group Cole Miller PO Box 84410 Baton Rouge, LA 70884 (225) 921-9192 cole.miller@theldsgroup.com theversantgroup.com Versant Group Jason Rasti PO Box 84410 Baton Rouge, LA 70884 (225) 306-5670 jason.rasti@theversantgroup.com theversantgroup.com WJTV Nexstar Broadcasting Jeffrey Guy 1820 TV Rd. Jackson, MS 39204 (601) 969-4605 jguy@wjtv.com www.wjtv.com Watson Jones, PA Kevin Watson PO Box 23546 Jackson, MS 39225 (601) 939-8900 kwatson@wjpllc.com wjpllc.com Wells Fargo Dealer Services Beth Foster 104 Blue Ridge Ct. S. Hendersonville, TN 37075 (615) 856-9939 beth.a.foster@wellsfargo.com www.wellsfargo.com Wells Marble & Hurst PLLC Walter D. Willson 300 Concourse Blvd., Ste. 200 Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 605-6900 wwillson@wellsmarble.com www.wellsmarble.com Williams, Weiss, Hester & Co. PLLC Doug Hester 4785 Old Canton Rd. Jackson, MS 39211 (601) 981-7571 doug.hester@wwhcpa.com www.wwhcpa.com Zurich Insurance Company Michael Firsick 38 Wellington Pl. Cabot, AR 72023 (214) 784-5181 michael.firsick@zurichna.com www.zurichna.com ENDORSED BY: ON AVERAGE, MS DEALERS ADD $53,388 IN PARTS UPLIFT ANNUALLY ARMATUS HAS COMPLETED OVER 18,235+ SUBMISSIONS NATIONWIDE ON AVERAGE, MS DEALERS ADD $51,384 IN LABOR UPLIFT ANNUALLY ARMATUS WORKS WITH 38% OF MISSISSIPPI DEALERS OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR CLIENTS: Ù You Won’t Lift a Finger: Armatus does all the work for you. Ù Fully Contingent Fee: You only pay when you are approved. Ù Speed and Accuracy: No one completes a submission faster. Ù Optimization: Proprietary software guarantees you the best result. (888) 477-2228 | info@dealeruplift.com WWW.DEALERUPLIFT.COM If you have already completed a submission in-house or with another vendor, you may still have significant opportunities to gain more. If we can’t improve your results, you owe us nothing. Between our scientifically proven optimal results, and our speed of processing, we will literally pay our own fee. Reach out today for a no-obligation evaluation of your parts and labor rates. MS Dealer Magazine-HP AD.indd 1 2/10/25 10:31 AM MADA ASSOCIATE MEMBERS 22
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