SAN ANTONIO, Texas – The Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance (The Alliance) announces five new members to its 10-member National Service Dealer Advisory Council. The following new council members will fill five seats being vacated by current members whose terms have expired.
 
The new members are:
· Steve Ammazzalorso – Sunny Sunoco, Margate City, N.J.
· Kent Atkins – The Grease Pig, Fayetteville, Ark.
· Lee Lizarraga – ABC Auto Care, Ventura, Calif.
· Steve Morton – Morton’s Auto & Truck Repair, New Albany, Ind.
· Al Sutherland – Al’s Certified Auto Repair, Augusta, Maine
 
The charter of this prestigious council is to integrate and refine the group’s Certified Service Center programs, code of ethics and compliance guidelines. In addition, the council helps research new programs and acts as a sounding board for any program improvements or recommendations.
 
"As representatives of our more than 3,000 certified service centers across the U.S. and Canada, this council carries the burden of continuous improvement to an already hugely successful program," said Jon Owens, VP of sales and market development for the group. "But, they represent the best of the best from among our industry’s independent shops, so they’re more than capable of doing so."
 
The five newly elected members will begin serving their two-year terms on July 1, and will participate in the annual face-to-face meeting this fall.  
 
"The Service Dealer Advisory Council is a tremendous benefit to our group," said Alliance President and CEO John Washbish. "Over the years, they’ve provided critical input to our very successful technological and e-commerce efforts, and have helped us craft what we feel is the best affiliation program in the industry. In addition, participation on this council is a bit of a ‘gateway’ to industry-wide committees and advisory groups. Our folks consider it an honor to move on from this council and give back to the industry that has helped them build successful businesses."