NEWSLETTERS - Iowa dealers stay vigilant at annual meeting

Iowa dealers stay vigilant at annual meeting

Iowa State Rep. Chris Hagenow

Close to 20 Iowa rental dealers representing a dozen companies turned out Thursday for the Association of Iowa Rental Dealers Annual Meeting at the Hilton Garden Inn in Johnston, Iowa where they heard state and federal legislative updates, held roundtable discussions and elected board members.

"It was a great get together and an important part of our total strategy," said AIRD President Brian Luksetich. "Our strategy is to keep our members connected through open communication so that we can make sure Iowa remains a safe place for rent to own to do business."

George Appleby of the Carney Law Firm, reviewed the 2011 Iowa Legislative Session and encouraged members to think about the upcoming 2012 session. All of which reinforced the need to stay organized, stay vigilant, and stay prepared to act at a moments notice, Luksetich said.

Vice President of public Affairs for Rent-A-Center, Xavier Dominics, brought dealers up to speed on APRO's ongoing push for a federal RTO law and the recent hearing that took place in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Iowa State Representative Chris Hagenow spoke to the group and provided key insight into how the Iowa House works.

At this year's APRO Convention in July, AIRD was presented the "2011 Continued Excellence Award". AIRD Vice President Mark Connelly accepted this award on behalf of the association.

All 11 AIRD Board Members were then re-elected, as were the association's officers: president/secretary/treasurer Brian Luksetich and vice president Mark Connelly.

Luksetich thanked Central File Marketing, who was this year's AIRD 2011 Annual Meeting Sponsor. Since 1992, Central File Marketing and Al Benson have provided marketing solutions to the Rent and Lease to Own Industry.

Other AIRD business covered:

*    Re-affirmed yearly dues of $125 per location.
*    Election Board Members:  Tom Bernau, Sam Bertman, Mark Connelly, Brent Gregurek, Lyn Leach, David Livengood, Brian Luksetich, John Maitland, Jason Ohnemus and Ed Spuzello all elected to another term as board members.
*    Election of Officers:  Brian Luksetich to another year term of President, Secretary and Treasurer. Mark Connelly to another year term of vice president.
*    Set spring board meeting for Thursday, May 10, 2012.