2026 Pub. 4 Issue 2 BOBBY REGAN The Car Dealer Who Built a Motocross Dynasty
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CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE 4 Confidence in the Future of Our Industry By Jeff Smith, Chairman, MADA 6 MADA Hosts First “Night of Appreciation” Honoring Leadership and Legacy BOBBY REGAN: THE CAR DEALER WHO BUILT A MOTOCROSS DYNASTY 12 Gray-Daniels Lincoln Celebrates Grand Opening in Brandon 14 Paul Moak Honda’s Grand Reopening Mississippi’s First Honda Dealer Debuts Next‑Generation Facility 16 Building a Culture of Excellence Cannon Honda and Cannon Toyota of Vicksburg Earn J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence Recognition 18 FTC Signals New Focus on Vehicle Pricing Transparency By ComplyAuto 20 NADA Update By Michael Joe Cannon, Mississippi Director, NADA 22 Jared Waldrop and Curt Hebert Jr. Reappointed and Jeff Smith Appointed to the MMVC IN MEMORY 23 J.S. “Dynamite” Kirk 24 MADA Associate Members ©2026 The Mississippi Auto Dealers Association (MADA) | MBR Connect™, formerly The newsLINK Group LLC All rights reserved. Mississippi Auto Dealer is published four times per year 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 (801) 676-9722. 6 16 CONTENTS2026 Pub. 4 Issue 2 8 3
Confidence in the Future of Our Industry By Jeff Smith, Chairman, MADA Words cannot fully express what a joy it has been to serve as chairman of the Mississippi Automobile Dealers Association (MADA). For more than four decades, I’ve been in the automobile business. Over that time, I’ve attended my share of MADA and NADA events, but it wasn’t until I had the opportunity to serve on the Board of Directors — and later as an officer — that I truly came to appreciate just how strong and effective this association is in representing franchised dealers across our state. Today, I could not be prouder to be a franchised automobile dealer. Our industry plays a vital role in Mississippi’s economy, supporting nearly 20,000 jobs and providing support to communities in every corner of our state. But beyond the numbers, what makes this business special is the people — our employees, our customers and the relationships we build every day. Serving as chairman has given me the opportunity to travel across Mississippi, meet with dealers and employees, and see firsthand the dedication and professionalism that define our industry. I’ve also had the privilege of representing our state in Washington, D.C., where it became even clearer how important it is that we stay engaged and unified in protecting the franchise system. I’ve learned that MADA is more than just an association — it is a strong voice, a powerful advocate and a true partner for every dealer in this state. The work being done each day to protect our interests, support our businesses and strengthen our communities is truly remarkable. I am grateful for the relationships built, the experiences shared and the opportunity to serve alongside so many outstanding individuals. I want to especially thank Marty and Beth at the MADA office for their tireless efforts on behalf of Mississippi dealers. I also want to thank our Board of Directors for their guidance, support and commitment to this association throughout my term. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my wife, Brenda, for her constant support, encouragement and understanding. Anyone who has served in a role like this knows the time and commitment it requires, and I could not have done it without her by my side. Finally, I want to congratulate Phil Moore as he steps into the role of chairman. Phil is a proven leader and a highly respected automobile dealer, and I have no doubt he will continue to move this association forward in a positive direction. I look forward to watching MADA build on its strong foundation under his leadership, and I am confident that our best days are still ahead. As I conclude my term, I remain committed to the future of our industry and this association. If we continue to invest in our people, support one another and stay engaged, there is no limit to what we can accomplish. I hope to see you at the convention at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, where we will gather one final time during my term as chairman. It will be a special opportunity to reflect on the year, celebrate our industry and look ahead to the future together. Thank you for the honor of serving as your chairman. It has truly been the highlight of my career. Chairman’s Message 4
MADA Hosts First “Night of Appreciation” Honoring Leadership and Legacy Past chairmen and members of the Board of Directors of MADA gathered for the inaugural “Night of Appreciation,” an evening dedicated to honoring the individuals who have supported and built the association’s legacy while celebrating the current leadership. The event was designed to bring together past and present leadership for a meaningful time of fellowship and reflection on our organization. Founded in 1941, MADA has spent more than eight decades serving as the unified voice for Mississippi’s franchised automobile dealers, with a clear and enduring mission: to promote, advance and protect franchised automobile dealers across the state. What began as a shared commitment among dealers to work collectively for the good of the industry has grown into a highly respected and influential statewide organization. The evening served as a tribute to that legacy — recognizing the leaders who built the foundation and celebrating those who continue to carry that mission forward. MADA Chairman Jeff Smith welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of active engagement within the association. He reflected on the personal and professional impact MADA has had on his career and encouraged members to remain involved in supporting the association’s mission. MADA Past Chairman and Mississippi’s NADA Director Michael Joe Cannon spoke about the unique bond that exists among automobile dealers. He noted that while dealers compete daily in the marketplace, they stand united in their shared responsibility to uphold and advance MADA’s agenda, ensuring a strong and stable voice for franchised dealers throughout Mississippi. 6
To view all the photos from the event, scan the QR code. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1hjrv_ Wknkor90BROFSkCkwC_mzVB3-NV MADA President Marty Milstead concluded the evening by highlighting the strength and influence of a unified dealer body. He expressed pride in representing Mississippi’s dealers at both the State Capitol and in Washington, D.C., where MADA continues to advocate on behalf of its members. He emphasized the association’s ability to effectively serve as the voice of franchised automobile dealers. The evening overall highlighted the dedication and commitment of MADA’s leadership — past and present — ensuring a bright future for the organization and the automotive industry. 7
Bobby Regan’s story doesn’t start on a racetrack — it starts on a showroom floor. Long before he built the most dominant team in Motocross and Supercross, Bobby was immersed in the automotive business as a second-generation dealer. For more than 50 years, he has carried on his family’s legacy at Star Chevrolet in Wiggins, Mississippi, building a reputation rooted in hard work, discipline and competition. Even now, at the height of his success in racing, that part of his life hasn’t changed. “I am still an auto dealer,” Bobby said. “When I’m not traveling for racing, you’ll find me sitting on the showroom floor.” It’s a striking contrast. While his racing operation commands global attention, back home, the dealership remains grounded and understated. As Bobby puts it, “Nobody here knows what I do when it comes to racing.” BOBBY REGAN The Car Dealer Who Built a Motocross Dynasty 8
Bobby’s humility and relentless work ethic were shaped early on. He inherited the business from his father and spent decades learning how to compete in a demanding industry. “I’ve been a dealer for 50 years; it’s taken a lot of hard work to get to where we are today,” he explained. “Although we’re a small dealer in a small town, we sell around 100 automobiles a month.” The path to two successful careers was, to say the least, interesting. Before finding success in the automotive industry and Supercross, Bobby served in the Army, including working in the Pentagon. When he returned home and had some free time from the dealership, he stumbled into a passion that would ultimately change his life. “When I got back out of the Army, all my friends were riding dirt bikes and I didn’t even know what that was,” he said. That curiosity quickly turned into competition. He began riding, then racing nationally. And when he realized he had entered the sport later than most, he pivoted — focusing on training riders and building something bigger. That “something” would become his own team, Star Racing. In the beginning, Star Racing wasn’t a polished operation. It was a small, self-funded effort built on Bobby’s competitive instincts and willingness to take risks. What he lacked in traditional racing pedigree, he made up for with business acumen. He approached racing the same way he approached the dealership: identify talent, build systems and outwork the competition. Even as Bobby started finding success in racing, he never left his day job. “When I get back from racing on Sundays, I come to the dealership and get to work,” he said. That dual life — car dealer and team owner — has become a defining part of his identity. For years, Star Racing steadily grew, eventually earning Yamaha’s support and evolving from a privateer team into a respected program. But the real shift came when Yamaha gave Bobby and his team greater control — culminating in Star Racing taking over the premier 450 program in 2021. That moment didn’t just elevate the team — it unlocked Bobby’s full vision. What followed was the creation of one of the most effective systems in motorsports. At the heart of Star Racing’s dominance is a structure that goes far beyond bikes and mechanics. Bobby built an environment that consistently produces champions — pressure creates performance. Riders aren’t just competing on race day — they’re competing every day in training, pushing each other to higher levels. Time and again, Bobby has identified riders before they became stars — then developed them into champions. The team doesn’t just recruit talent — it builds it. With a massive training facility in Florida and dozens of staff members, Star Racing controls every aspect of development — from riding technique to fitness to mental preparation. “We have 50 people working down there … training kids and doing all kinds of stuff,” Bobby explained. The result is a fully integrated system where nothing is left to chance. Unlike traditional teams, Star Racing fields a deep roster. More riders mean more competition, more data and more 9
opportunities to win. Everything in the organization is built around one expectation: winning. That mindset drives every decision, from rider selection to daily training. What started as a side project in a small Mississippi town is now the most dominant team in Motocross and Supercross. “We’re the top team in the world right now. It’s not something that we ever thought we would be, but we are,” Bobby stated. Despite the global success, Bobby hasn’t changed the core of who he is. He still runs his dealership. Still works the showroom floor. Still approaches racing like an underdog chasing something bigger. Today, Star Racing Yamaha isn’t just winning races — it’s shaping the future of the sport. Young riders don’t just dream of going pro. They dream of going to Star. And at the center of it all is Bobby — still working, still building and still proving that one unconventional path can change an entire industry. The future of Star Chevrolet is bright as well. During a period of economic uncertainty, many dealerships are deliberately keeping inventory low. But not at Star Chevrolet. Bobby is expanding inventory by adding more than 100 vehicles, demonstrating confidence in both the market and the dealership’s loyal customer base. He believes that hard work, honesty and integrity are the foundation of the dealership’s success — and that the same values will continue driving Star Chevrolet forward for years to come. Adding to his optimism for the future is his membership in MADA. His father was a member many years ago, and Bobby has been a member ever since he took over the dealership. “MADA keeps us dealers in line and works hard on Capitol Hill to protect the industry in Mississippi,” Bobby explained. “I appreciate all that the association does.” That balance between small-town business owner and leader of a world-class racing operation is what makes his story so compelling. Because Star Racing wasn’t built in a boardroom. It was built by a car dealer who understood how to compete — and refused to think small. 10
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?® Thomas Ballard, thomas.ballard@bofa.com business.bofa.com/dealer ©2024 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. DFS-699-AD 6942528 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. 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?® Thomas Ballard, thomas.ballard@bofa.com business.bofa.com/dealer ©2024 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. DFS-699-AD 6942528 Investment products offered by Investment Banking Affiliates: Are Not FDIC Insured 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.
GRAY-DANIELS LINCOLN Celebrates Grand Opening in Brandon Gray-Daniels Lincoln officially opened the doors to its stunning new Brandon facility this spring, marking a major investment in Mississippi’s automotive retail landscape and reinforcing Lincoln’s growing presence in the state. Located on Highway 80 in Brandon, the new dealership represents an $8 million investment and is now recognized as the largest Lincoln dealership in Mississippi. Community leaders, business partners, customers and members of the McLarty Automotive Group gathered for the grand opening celebration, touring the upscale showroom and experiencing firsthand the dealership’s modern luxury environment. They were also honored to welcome special guests United States Congressman Michael Guest, Brandon Mayor Butch Lee, Lincoln North America Executive Director Heidi Schaffer, Lincoln North America Head of Sales Mike DeYoung and Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Gibson. The new Gray-Daniels Lincoln Vitrine facility was designed to reflect the elevated customer experience associated with the Lincoln brand. Guests entering the showroom are welcomed into an atmosphere more reminiscent of a luxury lounge than a traditional dealership, with comfortable seating areas, sophisticated finishes and a hospitality-focused approach throughout the building. The dealership showcases Lincoln’s newest lineup, including the Navigator, Aviator, Nautilus and Corsair. Mark McLarty of McLarty Automotive Group said Brandon was a natural fit for the new Lincoln location because of the city’s continued growth and strong business climate: “It’s an incredibly business-friendly place: great community, great people, tremendous workforce and great customers.” Pictured left to right: Brandon Mayor Butch Lee; Fran Mitchell; Cliff Mitchell, Managing Partner/General Manager, Gray-Daniels Lincoln; Mark McLarty, Founder, McLarty Automotive Group; United States Congressman Michael Guest; Heidi Schaffer, Executive Director, Lincoln North America; Andy Gibson, Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture; Mike DeYoung, Head of Sales and Service, Lincoln North America 12
Brandon Mayor Butch Lee praised the dealership’s arrival as another sign of the city’s ongoing momentum and economic development success. “This is another chip on the table of building a great city,” he continued, “Brandon is a wonderful community, and it is only getting better.” The opening also further strengthens the Gray-Daniels Automotive Family footprint across central Mississippi. The organization, part of the McLarty Automotive Group, serves customers throughout the Jackson metro area with multiple franchised dealerships representing Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Nissan, Volvo and Lincoln brands. In addition to expanding luxury vehicle offerings in the region, the new Lincoln facility brings additional jobs and long-term economic impact to Rankin County. The dealership features modern customer amenities and a design centered around personalized client care — all key components of Lincoln’s national retail vision. Customers are treated to a luxury waiting room, giving them a private and comfortable area to relax while their car is being taken care of in the service department. The dealership has also removed the typical desk setting for vehicle purchases and paperwork completion. Instead, they have crafted a unique living room setting that allows salespeople to sit with customers in a more relaxed environment and discuss their purchase on a big TV together. “It’s been a unique experience for our salespeople to learn to meet the customers in a different place,” said Cliff Mitchell, managing partner/general manager of Gray-Daniels Lincoln. “But all the feedback has just been wonderful. People seem to be more relaxed, and it doesn’t seem to be as stressful on the customer.” The grand opening celebration highlighted not only the growth of Gray-Daniels Lincoln but also the continued strength of Mississippi’s retail automotive industry, where dealer investments continue to drive economic development and enhance the customer experience across the state. 13
Mississippi’s First Honda Dealer Debuts Next‑Generation Facility In Jackson, Mississippi, few names carry the legacy and community presence of Paul Moak Honda. In February 2026, that legacy took an exciting step forward as the dealership celebrated its grand reopening following an extensive renovation — one that blends decades of history with a bold vision for the future of automotive retail. The timing made the celebration even more meaningful. As Mississippi’s first Honda dealer, established in 1971, Paul Moak Honda marked 55 years with the brand while also celebrating 80 years as a family-owned automotive business. Now, with its transformation as the state’s newest Honda “Blue Stage” dealership, the company stands in a unique position as both one of the longest-standing and most forward-looking dealerships in the region. A MODERN TRANSFORMATION The renovation project, which spanned approximately 10 months, reimagined the dealership from the ground up. What was once a 25-year-old facility has been transformed into a sleek, modern environment that enhances both the customer experience and operational efficiency. At the heart of the redesign is Honda’s next-generation Blue Stage design concept, which emphasizes openness, transparency and connectivity. The new dealership features expansive glass walls, an open showroom layout, and clearly defined welcome and service areas, creating a seamless, inviting customer journey. The reimagined space also reflects the changing needs of today’s customers. Multiple waiting areas — including a comfortable living room-style lounge, a dedicated workstation with charging ports and additional seating near the showroom — allow visitors to choose an environment that suits their needs. Integrated power infrastructure, including floor outlets throughout the showroom, ensures the facility is ready for emerging vehicle technologies, including electric vehicles. Even from the outside, the transformation is striking. The redesigned exterior presentation, combined with thoughtful vehicle displays, sets the tone before customers even step inside, reinforcing the dealership’s commitment to innovation and excellence. A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION On Feb. 25, 2026, Paul Moak Honda opened its doors to the public for a grand reopening celebration that drew an impressive and diverse crowd from across the Jackson community. Customers, employees, business partners and community stakeholders gathered to mark the occasion, alongside representatives from American Honda Motor Company. The event also attracted significant civic and state leadership, underscoring the dealership’s impact on the region. Among PAUL MOAK HONDA’s Grand Reopening 14
those in attendance were Jackson Mayor John Horhn, Mississippi Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann, and other public officials and community leaders. Mayor Horhn commended the dealership’s continued investment in Jackson, noting the broader significance of projects like this one. “When a family-owned business continues to reinvest at this level, it sends a clear message about confidence,” he said. “These projects support jobs, enhance the customer experience and contribute to our local economy in a meaningful way.” The celebration itself reflected the dealership’s commitment to hospitality and engagement. Guests were offered guided tours of the newly renovated facility, including the upgraded service department, with valet service creating a smooth and memorable arrival experience. The event’s flow allowed attendees to experience the dealership’s new layout firsthand while also connecting with the people behind the business. HONORING A LEGACY While the new facility represents a major step forward, the grand reopening also served as an opportunity to reflect on the dealership’s enduring legacy. Paul Moak Honda’s roots as Mississippi’s first Honda dealership carry both historical significance and a deep sense of pride. Over the decades, the dealership has grown alongside the Jackson community, building relationships with generations of customers. Behind that longevity is the strength of a family-owned business that has remained committed to its community for eight decades. In an industry that has seen significant consolidation, Paul Moak Automotive continues to stand out as a locally rooted organization, actively involved in civic initiatives, philanthropy and economic development. This connection was evident throughout the grand reopening event. The presence of local leaders, long-time customers and community partners highlighted the dealership’s role not just as a place of business, but as a cornerstone of the community it serves. LOOKING AHEAD With its newly renovated facility and continued commitment to innovation, Paul Moak Honda is embracing the continued evolution of automotive retail. Its Blue Stage design provides the flexibility and infrastructure needed to support evolving vehicle technologies, while the customer-focused layout reflects shifting expectations in the retail experience. At the same time, the dealership remains grounded in the values that have defined it for generations: service, relationships and a deep connection to the Jackson community. The juxtaposition is fitting. As the first Honda dealer in Mississippi — and now the newest in design — Paul Moak Honda embodies both heritage and progress. As the state’s oldest Honda dealership celebrates 55 years with the brand, the grand reopening of Paul Moak Honda is a powerful reflection of its enduring legacy and forward momentum. 15
For Billy Crozier, general manager of Cannon Honda of Vicksburg and Cannon Toyota of Vicksburg, customer service is not a department — it is the culture that drives every part of the business. That commitment recently earned both dealerships one of the automotive industry’s most respected honors: the J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence Award, recognizing dealerships that provide exceptional customer service and sales experiences. The achievement places Cannon Honda and Cannon Toyota among an elite group of dealerships nationwide and marks the first time two dealerships under the same ownership in Mississippi have earned the distinction simultaneously. “It was pretty humbling being the first two dealerships in the state to receive the award,” Billy said. However, the recognition is less about trophies and more about people. Billy has spent more than three decades in the automotive industry, beginning his career in 1994. After moving to Vicksburg in 2012 to run the Toyota dealership, he remained when owner Michael Joe Cannon, current NADA director for Mississippi, acquired the store in 2013. He later purchased the Honda dealership in 2016, followed by the construction of two new facilities in 2017. More recently, the group expanded again with the addition of a GMC dealership. Today, Billy oversees all three Vicksburg dealerships, but he credits their success to a shared philosophy known internally as the “Cannon Culture.” The culture is built around six core principles: • Communication • Attitude starts with us • Negatives into positives • Now instead of later • Offense instead of defense • Nobody beats a Cannon deal Building a Culture of EXCELLENCE Cannon Honda and Cannon Toyota of Vicksburg Earn J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence Recognition 16
Billy recalled. Visiting customers at home was something that just didn’t happen before Michael Joe took over. Unsure of what would happen, the management team knocked on the customer’s door and began to talk to him. Initially, the customer was frustrated and did not want to talk to the team, but his wife encouraged him to hear them out. The customer eventually invited the team inside. The group sat together, discussed the issue and ultimately resolved the problem by removing the required part from a new truck inventory unit while waiting for the official replacement. The customer became one of the dealership’s most loyal supporters. That mindset extends throughout the organization. Whether it involves driving to Monroe, Louisiana, to meet a dissatisfied customer face-to-face or personally responding to a negative review, leadership believes service recovery is an opportunity to strengthen relationships. “It’s not the fact that you make a mistake,” Billy explained. “It’s how you deal with it — being transparent, being honest, giving full disclosures.” “One of the big things we talk about in our group is how important it is to take good care of your employees,” he said. “A satisfied employee is absolutely going to make a satisfied customer.” That philosophy has helped create remarkable employee retention and internal growth opportunities across the dealerships. Billy proudly shared that the Toyota service manager began with the company in 2013 as an oil changer and worked his way into leadership. The organization also prioritizes promoting from within, requiring employees to train their own replacements before advancing to new positions. “We really talk a lot with people when we hire them about their career path,” Billy said. “It’s fun to watch people grow.” That succession-focused approach has helped build what Billy describes as a true team environment rather than separate departments operating independently. “Our parts and service departments work so well together, along with our collision center and our new and used departments,” he said. “It’s really a team concept, and they all have the same goals in mind — taking care of the customer.” In addition to the J.D. Power Dealer of Excellence recognition, both dealerships also earned manufacturer honors in 2024, including the Honda President’s Award and Toyota President’s Award. Cannon Honda was the only Honda dealership in Mississippi to receive the President’s Award that year. While awards and recognition are meaningful, Billy says the true reward comes from seeing employees succeed and customers remain loyal year after year. Their investment in people continues to define their success and set a standard for dealership excellence across Mississippi. Congratulations, Cannon Honda and Cannon Toyota of Vicksburg, on your well-deserved award! According to Billy, that final phrase is often misunderstood. “So many people think it’s about price, and it really isn’t,” he said. “It’s first and foremost about taking care of the customer.” That philosophy is woven into every dealership process, from sales to service to collision repair. Billy shared one story that perfectly illustrates the dealership group’s approach to customer care. Shortly after Toyota redesigned the Tundra in 2014, a customer began experiencing an issue with a sensor that would incorrectly activate whenever he stopped at intersections. At the time, Toyota had not yet released replacement parts. Instead of waiting for the situation to escalate, Michael Joe instructed Billy, the service manager, the parts manager and the sales manager to personally visit the customer’s home. “Michael Joe said, ‘Don’t call him first, just show up at his house,’” 17
In March, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) intensified its scrutiny of automobile advertising practices by sending warning letters to 97 dealer groups nationwide. The letters emphasized a straightforward message: The advertised price of a vehicle should include all mandatory fees a consumer must pay to purchase that vehicle. According to the FTC, the only charges that may be excluded from an advertised price are required government fees, such as taxes, title and registration charges. The agency urged dealers to review their advertising and pricing practices to ensure compliance with federal law. The FTC reiterated its commitment to preventing consumers from being subjected to undisclosed fees, hidden charges or other deceptive pricing practices. “The FTC will remain focused on monitoring auto dealerships to ensure that the market functions efficiently and competitors are transparently competing on price,” said Christopher Mufarrige, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. FTC MAKES ITS INTENTIONS CLEAR IN WEBINAR FOR DEALERS Many dealers received additional clarity during a webinar with the FTC, hosted by the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). Dealers should carefully review their advertising practices and ensure that the price displayed to consumers accurately reflects the amount a customer will be required to pay for the vehicle. WHAT ABOUT DOCUMENTARY FEES? Perhaps the most significant takeaway for Mississippi dealers is the FTC’s position on documentary and service fees. In short, the FTC expects documentary fees to be included in the advertised vehicle price. Regulation 8, adopted by the Mississippi Motor Vehicle Commission, governs the disclosure of documentary and service fees. While the documentary/service fee must be included in the prominently advertised price, the amount of the fee does not have to be disclosed separately in the advertisement. FTC Signals New Focus on VEHICLE PRICING TRANSPARENCY By ComplyAuto 18
The FTC reiterated its commitment to preventing consumers from being subjected to undisclosed fees, hidden charges or other deceptive pricing practices. “ MADA’S RECOMMENDATION In light of the FTC’s position and ongoing enforcement efforts, MADA recommends that dealers include documentary and service fees in the advertised price of vehicles. The FTC’s warning letters also identified several pricing practices that may violate Section 5 of the FTC Act and other consumer protection laws, including: • Advertising a price that does not include all mandatory fees; • Advertising prices that rely on rebates or discounts unavailable to all consumers; • Advertising prices that fail to account for required down payments; • Conditioning the advertised price on the consumer using dealer-arranged financing; • Requiring consumers to purchase products or services not reflected in the advertised price; and • Advertising vehicles that are unavailable or do not actually exist in inventory. EXAMPLE OF COMPLIANT ADVERTISEMENT A vehicle is advertised for $41,999. The advertised price includes the dealership’s documentary fee and represents the amount any financially qualified customer would pay for the vehicle. Only government-imposed charges, such as sales tax, title and registration fees, are excluded. EXAMPLE OF NON-COMPLIANT ADVERTISEMENT A vehicle is advertised for $41,999, but this total does not include a documentary fee (if charged by the dealership), requires dealer financing to obtain the advertised price, applies rebates that are not available to all consumers, or requires the purchase of additional products not disclosed in the advertisement. MASSIVE FINES AND PENALTIES The FTC is armed with the ability to punish dealers with heavy fines and penalties. The Lindsay Automotive Group settled a complaint brought by the FTC and the Maryland Attorney General for a $3.1 million civil penalty and potentially more than $75 million in restitution to consumers. What should dealers do now? • Audit all current advertising (website, third-party listings, print, social) to verify all-in pricing. • Contact your advertising vendors immediately to update listings. • Train your marketing and F&I staff on the new requirements. • Consider ComplyAuto’s Guardian platform to help stay ahead of FTC advertising requirements. Their tools include advertising compliance workflows, state-specific training modules and disclosure templates designed for dealers. ComplyAuto has also created a dealer guide addressing federal advertising. The guide can be accessed on the ComplyAuto website, complyauto.com. The guide includes examples of advertisements that are in compliance with the FTC’s stipulations. 19
There has been a lot of activity in Washington recently on issues that could have a significant impact on automobile dealers. NADA continues to stay involved on behalf of franchised dealers and is working to protect the franchise system and the interests of dealers nationwide. CHINESE OEM ENTRY INTO THE U.S. MARKET On April 29, Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) and Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) introduced the Connected Vehicle Security Act (S. 4429). The bill would prohibit the importation, sale and operation of vehicles manufactured in China and would also ban Chinese-developed connected vehicle technology, including software and data systems, from use on American roads. According to Sen. Moreno’s office, the legislation would phase in over several years, with software and vehicle restrictions beginning in 2027 and hardware restrictions taking effect in 2030. The goal is to give U.S. manufacturers time to strengthen domestic supply chains while addressing national security concerns associated with connected vehicle technology. NADA supports efforts to prevent Chinese automakers from entering the U.S. market. This legislation follows bipartisan letters sent to the administration expressing concerns about allowing Chinese OEMs access to the American market and urging action to prevent their entry. NADA is currently working with Sens. Moreno and Slotkin on the legislation and will continue advocating for policies that protect the American automotive industry. SO-CALLED “RIGHT TO REPAIR” LEGISLATION On May 21, the House Energy and Commerce Committee passed H.R. 7389, the Motor Vehicle Modernization Act, which included the REPAIR Act (H.R. 1566), but in name only. The entire bill was stripped down to three provisions: codifying the 2014 light-duty Memorandum of Understand and the 2015 heavy-duty truck Memorandum of Understanding, and an FTC study on this issue that is due in 2030. NADA supported these modifications. Thanks to NADA’s grassroots advocacy, the committee withdrew its problematic draft of the REPAIR Act and replaced it with a significantly scaled-back version. The bill preserves the current, functional repair system without introducing new liabilities on dealers, opening warranty and recall work to third parties, or threatening state franchise law — all of which were provisions in previous versions of the bill. NADA anticipates proponents of so-called “right to repair” will try to restore their dropped language when the bill moves to the House floor, potentially later this month. I will keep you posted on further developments. VOLKSWAGEN AND SCOUT MOTORS LITIGATION There have also been important legal developments involving Volkswagen and Scout Motors. On March 30, a federal court denied Volkswagen and Scout Motors’ motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the California New Car Dealers Association. The case alleges that Scout’s direct-to-consumer model constitutes unlawful competition with franchised dealers. The court’s decision allows the lawsuit to move forward. Separately, two Volkswagen dealers filed a class-action lawsuit in Virginia against Scout Motors, Scout Motors Sales LLC, Volkswagen Group of America and Volkswagen AG. That case alleges contractual violations related to dealer agreements. Because it is a class action, all Volkswagen dealers in the United States are automatically included unless they choose to opt out. Neither NADA nor the Virginia Automobile Dealers Association is involved in that litigation. LOOKING AHEAD While these issues are very different, they all have one thing in common: They affect the future of the franchise dealer system. NADA will continue monitoring developments in Congress, federal agencies, and the courts and will keep dealers informed as these matters move forward. NADA Update By Michael Joe Cannon, Mississippi Director, NADA 20
For more information, or to learn more about our 100+ opportunities, visit DSMA.com. OUR MIDWEST TEAM MIKE FUNK Regional Director michael.funk@dsma.com 312.674.4556 JENNIFER RAFAEL Executive V.P. & Partner jennifer.rafael@dsma.com 312.927.9561 JONATHON MORONI M&A Associate jonathon.moroni@dsma.com 312.674.4556 GREG BROWN M&A Associate greg.brown@dsma.com 312.674.4556 CHRIS HAWLEY Regional Director chris.hawley@dsma.com 312.674.4556 SHINTHYA SILVA M&A Associate shinthya.silva@dsma.com 312.674.4556 NOLAN KLUG Bus. Dev. Manager nolan.klug@dsma.com 312.674.4556 FRANK DEGRADI M&A Associate frank.degradi@dsma.com 312.674.4556 VALUATIONS THAT HUNT FOR HIGHER PROFITS. CLAIM WHAT’S YOURS. DSMA IS THE #1 GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS FIRM. SCAN THE QR CODE TO REQUEST A BUSINESS VALUATION. WITH OUR PRIDE OF EXPERTS BEHIND YOU, THE COMPETITION DOESN’T STAND A CHANCE.
JARED WALDROP and CURT HEBERT Jr. Reappointed and JEFF SMITH Appointed to the MMVC The Mississippi Motor Vehicle Commission (MMVC) plays a vital role in the franchised automotive industry in Mississippi. The Commission is charged with ensuring a fair marketplace between vehicle manufacturers and local franchised dealers, protecting consumers by promoting ethical business practices and maintaining stability in the dealer network by preventing unfair franchise terminations and coercive practices by manufacturers. Commissioner Waldrop was reappointed by Gov. Tate Reeves for a seven-year term. Waldrop is general manager of Pine Belt Ford and is also involved in the operations of additional dealerships owned by the Pine Belt Automotive Group. Commissioner Hebert was reappointed by Attorney General Lynn Fitch for a four-year term, serving as one of the two consumer representatives. Hebert is an attorney with the Brunini law firm in Jackson. The Mississippi Senate has confirmed Jeff Smith to serve as a commissioner on the Mississippi Motor Vehicle Commission following his appointment by Gov. Tate Reeves. Smith’s confirmation places him on the state regulatory body for the first time. Smith, the owner of Crossroads Chevrolet GMC in Corinth, will serve a six-year term on the Commission, ending on June 30, 2032. He brings over four decades of industry knowledge to the position. He has also been actively involved in Mississippi’s automotive community, including leadership, serving as the current chairman of MADA. Jared Waldrop Curt Hebert Jr. Jeff Smith 22
J.S. “Dynamite” Kirk J.S. “Dynamite” Kirk, 89, of Grenada, passed away Feb. 7, 2026. Born in Duck Hill, Mississippi, he rose from humble beginnings in a family of sharecroppers to become a longtime leader in the automotive industry. After early work in construction and sales, he entered the car business in the 1960s and quickly excelled, later becoming co-owner of a Ford dealership and building Kirk Auto Company into one of Mississippi’s largest and longest-standing dealer groups. A respected business and community leader, Kirk was active in supporting local schools, youth programs and charitable causes throughout Grenada for more than 50 years. He received numerous honors, including the Ford President’s Award and the Grenada Exchange Club Book of Golden Deeds, and the Dynamite Kirk Entrepreneurship Excellence Award was named in his honor. He was a Holmes Community College Distinguished Alumnus and a devoted member of Grace Baptist Church. I N M E M O R Y Your magazine: On your phone, on your tablet, on your schedule. connected stay 23
700Credit LLC Britney Fischer 26555 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 301 Southfield, MI 48033 (586) 915-4703 bfischer@700credit.com 700credit.com 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 acvauctions.com Ally Financial David Luke 1735 N. Brown Rd., Ste. 500 Lawrenceville GA 30043 (901) 378-5065 david.luke@ally.com 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 dealeruplift.com Assurant Dealer Services Brett Malbrough 1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Ste. 700 The Woodlands, TX 77380 (312) 356-3000 brett.malbrough@assurant.com assurant.com Bank of America Thomas Ballard 3455 Peachtree Rd. NE Atlanta, GA 30326 (770) 364-7078 thomas.ballard@bofa.com bankofamerica.com Bo Haarala Autoplex Karen Fears 1003 S. Frontage Rd. Meridian, MS 39301 (601) 482-7539 khfears@yahoo.com bohautoplex.com Brightline Dealer Advisors Stephen Pate 15301 Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 500 Addison, TX 75001 (205) 242-8908 spate@brightlinedealer.com brightlinedealeradvisors.com Brightline Dealer Advisors Pat Sanders 15301 Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 500 Addison, TX 75001 (256) 882-2105 psanders@brightlinedealer.com brightlinedealeradvisors.com Brunini Grantham Grower & Hewes PLLC Benji Bailey 190 E. Capitol St., Ste. 100 Jackson, MS 39201 (601) 948-3101 bbailey@brunini.com brunini.com CarNow Linnea Weikleenget 136 Three Prong Rd. Brandon, MS 39042 (901) 212-0316 linnea@carnow.com carnow.com CCMSI Donna Allen PO Box 1378 Ridgeland, MS 39158 (601) 608-1001 dallen@ccmsi.com ccmsi.com CCMSI John Burns PO Box 1378 Ridgeland, MS 39158 (601) 899-0148 jburns@ccmsi.com ccmsi.com Century Construction Company 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 Lauren Bailey 299 S. Main St., Ste. 1300, PMB 93125 Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (661) 214-9760 lauren.bailey@complyauto.com complyauto.com 2026 MADA Associate Members 24
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 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 Dealerslink Randy Roberts 11001 W. 120th Ave., Ste. 400 Brookfield, CO 80021 (256) 424-3723 randy.roberts@dealerslink.com public.dealerslink.com Dealer Services Network Henry Casey 3155 SW 10th St., Ste. D Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 (985) 507-1189 henry@expressomv.com 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 Auction LLC Patrick Sellers 12135 Hwy. 8 W. Grenada, MS 38901 (662) 226-5637 psellers@dixieautoauction.com dixieautoauction.com Dominion DMS Arlene Clements 1515 S. Federal Hwy., Ste. 406 Boca Raton, FL 33432 (858) 693-3684 arlene.clements@dominiondms.com dominiondms.com Dynatron Software Maureen Martin 2703 Telecom Pkwy., Ste. 140A Richardson, TX 75082 (972) 663-5998 mmartin@dynatronsoftware.com dynatronsoftware.com Epic Insurance Brokers & Consultants Matthew Gaston 2720 3rd Ave. S., Ste. 100 Birmingham, AL 35233 (205) 420-3499 matthew.gaston@epicbrokers.com epicbrokers.com Fisher & Phillips LLP Steve Cupp 2505 14th St., Ste. 300 Gulfport, MS 39501 (228) 822-1440 scupp@fisherphillips.com 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 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 gpwa.com GSFS Group Matthew Strakna 1345 Enclave Pkwy. Houston, TX 77077 (346) 342-6404 mstrakna@gsfsgroup.com gsfsgroup.com Henderson Hutcherson & McCullough PLLC Travis M. Horton 1200 Market St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 (423) 756-7771 thorton@hhmcpas.com hhmcpas.com Holmes Motors Inc. Kathy Atkins 10651 Boney Ave. D’Iberville, MS 39540 (228) 392-4054 andrear@holmesmotrs.com holmesmotors.com Hoyt Hayes Construction Brad Hayes PO Box 1028 Jackson, TN 38302 (731) 664-3021 brad@hoythayes.com 25
IKON Technologies Jim Anani 1161 W. Corporate Dr. W., Ste. 120 Arlington, TX 76006 (214) 444-4700 jim.anani@ikontechnologies.com ikontechnologies.com Insurance Office of America Paul Elliott 1040 Stanton Rd., Ste. F&G Daphne, AL 32546 (205) 908-8792 paul.elliott@ioausa.com ioausa.com JM&A Tony Carroll 1405 Thaddeus Cv. Austin, TX 78746 (512) 423-9648 tony.carroll@jmagroup.com jmagroup.com Kirk Brothers Powersports Cannon Kirk 2001 Mabyline St. Greenwood, MS 38930 (662) 453-5646 cannonkirk05@yahoo.com kirkbrotherspowersports.com LoJack Tina Morgan 1500 Solana Blvd., Bldg. #6 Westlake, TX 76262 (817) 287-8270 tina.morgan@solera.com lojack.com MetroTech Automotive Tyler Parker 2101 Wilkinson Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28208 (954) 242-1102 tparker@metrotechauto.com metrotechauto.com NADA Retirement from Empower Jeff Liwacz 8515 E. Orchard Rd., 10T2 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 (609) 529-3546 jeff.liwacz@empower-retirement.com empower.com Oakbridge Insurance Tracy Davis 3964 Goodman Rd., Ste. 202 Southaven, MS 38672 (662) 323-3332 tdavis@oakbridgeinsurance.com oakbridgeinsurance.com Orion Financial Kenneth Washington 400 Monroe Ave. Memphis, TN 38103 (901) 266-2774 kwashington@orionfcu.com orionfcu.com Paragon Dealer Services Bob McKinney 505 Energy Center Blvd., Ste. 604 Northport, AL 35473 (205) 349-3158 paragon267@gmail.com paragondealerservices.com Passtime GPS Jason Johnson 861 Southpark Dr. Littleton, CO 80120 (601) 540-6280 jjohnson@passtimegps.com passtimegps.com Performance Brokerage Services Jimmy Robinson 2102 W. Cleveland St. Tampa, FL 33606 (615) 804-1625 jimmy@performancebrokerageservices.com performancebrokerageservices.com PNC Bank Jake Gurkin 1819 Fifth Ave. N., Ste. 900 Birmingham, AL 35203 (205) 213-9311 jacob.gurkin@pnc.com pnc.com Portfolio Ryan Cassidy 20 Cabot Blvd., Ste. 400 Mansfield, MA (800) 761-4546 rcassidy@portfolioco.com portfolioreinsurance.com Premium Review Specialist Inc. Ronnie Fulton PO Box 5575 Brandon, MS 39047 (601) 278-9356 rgfulton@gmail.com Priority Commerce Automotive Amberly Allen 13140 Coit Rd., #364 Dallas, TX 75240 (214) 683-4088 amberly.allen@prth.com prioritycommerce.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 probfs.com Protective Asset Protection Wayne McBrayer 14755 N. Outer 40 Rd., Ste. 400 Chesterfield, MO 63017 (423) 580-2858 wayne.mcbrayer@protective.com protectiveassetprotection.com Raymond James & Associates Ken Hall Barnett 1062 Highland Colony Pkwy., Ste. 100 Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601) 607-7206 kenhall.barnett@raymondjames.com raymondjames.com/kenhallbarnett Reynolds & Reynolds Matthew Jaeger 2744 Misty Rock Cv. Dacula, GA 30019 (678) 457-4605 matthew_jaeger@reyrey.com reyrey.com MADA ASSOCIATE MEMBERS 26
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