American International Automobile Dealers Announce 2011 Chairman, Officers

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. (Feb. 7) – The American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA) today announced Pennsylvania auto dealer Jim Smail as its new 2011 chairman. Smail took over the position during AIADA’s 41st Annual Meeting and Luncheon, held today in San Francisco, Calif. Also during the meeting, AIADA announced the 2011 recipient of its David F. Mungenast, Sr. Lifetime Achievement Award.

“I truly believe that dealers need AIADA more than ever. I am energized and very, very excited to continue AIADA’s crucial mission in Washington, D.C.,” said Smail. “It is our best defense, and our strongest offense in Washington, and this year we will need your support.”

Smail is the president of Greensburg, Penn.-based Smail Auto Group, which operates five international nameplate franchises, including Acura, Honda, Kia, Mazda, and Mercedes-Benz. They have been the recipient of numerous dealership awards, including Acura’s Dealer of Distinction and Precision Team Award; Honda’s President’s Award and the Council of Excellence; Mercedes-Benz’s Best of the Best; and Mazda’s Gold Cup Dealer recognition. Smail has served as chairman of the Honda National Dealer Advisory Board, is current chairman of the Acura National Dealer Advisory Board, is on the board of directors of the Pennsylvania Automotive Association, and is on the board of directors and past president of the Greater Pittsburgh Automobile Dealers Association.

During the meeting, AIADA also recognized Peter Blackstock of Seaside, Calif. with its David F. Mungenast, Sr. Lifetime Achievement Award. The award is named after the late AIADA chairman and legendary St. Louis-area automobile dealer. Blackstock is the owner of Victory Toyota and Lexus Monterey Peninsula and served on the AIADA board from 2002 to 2005.

“Just like the award’s namesake, Peter represents the best of America’s international auto dealers. His commitment to family, community, and the industry made him an easy choice for this award,” said AIADA President Cody Lusk.

AIADA’s 2011 officers of the board of directors are: Jim Smail, chairman (Greensburg, Penn.); Rick DeSilva, immediate past chairman (Mahwah, N.J.); Ray Mungenast, chairman elect (St. Louis, Mo.); Jenell Ross, vice chairwoman (Centerville, Ohio); and Larry Kull, secretary/treasurer (Marlton, N.J.).