The theme of the conference was "Don't Take A Gamble … Invest in Your Future," and offered repair shop owners and managers a chance to learn about pertinent issues, network with friends and business associates, and enjoy the sights of San Diego.

The conference was kicked off on Oct. 3 by AMI-approved speaker Cecil Bullard, who addressed the changing economy and the tools needed if shops hope to thrive and survive.  His talk was sponsored by QuickTrac Software.

Immediately following Bullard's seminar, attendees were invited to a cocktail reception hosted by 1-800-Radiator.  Later that evening, the room was transformed into a casino for Monte Carlo Night.  Those with the most chips at the end of the night won cash prices.

 
Andy Pollino was the big winner of the evening, while Terry Pennebaker, ASSCA President Allen Pennebaker's wife, finished second, and John Eppstein third.

On Oct. 4, the attendees gathered for breakfast and listened to "Filling the Glass: Real World Tactics and Motivation for Increasing Productivity and Job Satisfaction," a motivational speech by business author and speaker Barry Maher.

The breakfast was followed by the chapter representatives meeting, in which board directors were elected. The open positions were filled by Kevin Donohoe, Declan M. Kavanagh, Bob Klingenberg, Mary Kemnitz, Ann Melton, and John Villa.  The chapter representatives committee also elected its chair, Dennis Montalbano. 

 
The new board then convened briefly to select the 2009 officers: Glenn Davis, president; Stuart Terry, first vice president; Dennis Montalbano, second vice president; Declan Kavanagh, treasurer; Jack Crawley, secretary; and Allen Pennebaker, past president.

In the afternoon, attendees were able to enjoy the sights of the city on the San Diego City Tour & Harbor Excursion.  Many attendees took a tour of the San Diego Zoo, while others enjoyed jet skiing in Mission Bay.

The President's Banquet concluded the day with a black-tie affair.  After cocktails and dinner, the 2008 committee chairs and board members were acknowledged for their service, followed by the installation of the 2009 ASCCA board and officers.

The ASC Educational Foundation raffled off a 32-inch LCD television donated by AutoNet TV, which was won by Chapter 24 member Mitchell P. Mendenhall.

During the banquet, Allen Pennebaker presented the President's award to Craig Johnson, Chapter 5 president and representative, for his hard work and enthusiasm, which Pennebaker said has inspired and invigorated his chapter.

On Oct. 5, the ASCCA Conference wrapped up with the Farewell Breakfast that included a State of the State Address given by Pennebaker, as well as talks by President-Elect Glenn Davis and Legislative Advocate Jack Molodanof.