Your Insight is Requested: Michigan’s Automotive Workforce Future

Posted on by Summer

The Center for Automotive Research (CAR) is conducting a statewide assessment of workforce needs in Michigan’s automotive industry on behalf of Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and the Michigan Automotive Workforce Hub. Your insights are essential.

The goal of this assessment is to gain awareness about the changing workforce needs of automotive industry employers in Michigan, particularly in the context of auto industry shifts, including changing vehicle technology, new propulsion systems, and policy.

As dealership owners and managers, you’re experiencing firsthand how the EV transition is changing workforce needs. Your sales teams need new skills for EV education, service technicians require electric vehicle training, and hiring demands are evolving rapidly.

To assist in identifying workforce challenges and opportunities over the next 3-5 years, dealership owners and managers are being asked to participate in a confidential interview and a brief survey (now open through November 7). Please read more about the survey here or contact Lisa Krusemark at ekrusemark@cargroup.org

Results from the assessment will be used to inform state policy makers and workforce development agencies in an effort to develop resources for Michigan automotive businesses.

Understanding OCD Beyond the Stereotypes

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If you think of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you may think of a person who needs everything to be tidy or who washes their hands until they are raw.
OCD, however, is much broader than these stereotypes. Let’s take a look at what OCD is, how it affects people and treatments.
This article is from MIBlue Daily, brought to you by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.

What is OCD?

This mental health disorder is characterized by having recurring, uncontrollable intrusive thoughts that feel real and cause distress, and then following a compulsive behavior or thought to temporarily relieve the distress or prevent the intrusive thought from happening. A person must deal with these thoughts and compulsions for at least an hour a day.
Up to 2% of Americans have OCD, which is more common in girls and women and typically develops in adolescence or early adulthood. Children and young adults may not realize their thought patterns are out of the ordinary, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
It can take up to a decade for someone to get a diagnosis after OCD develops, according to Harvard Health.

Intrusive thoughts and compulsions

Intrusive thoughts can take many different forms. These thoughts create self-doubt and are often ego-dystonic, meaning they do not align with an individual’s values or actions.
Here are common obsessions:
  • Fear of accidents or being a victim of violence
  • Fear of committing acts of violence against others
  • Fear of contamination
  • Having taboo thoughts about sex or religion
  • Excessive worry about morality
Common compulsions include:
  • Constant self-reassurance
  • Avoidance
  • Mental problem solving to prepare for possible emergencies
  • Repeating a prayer or counting
  • Repeated washing or bathing
  • Repeated checking of locks or stoves

Misconceptions about OCD

OCD is not merely perfectionism or a preference for neatness and order. A person with OCD can feel if they make a mistake or have a messy home, then something bad will happen to them or a loved one.
Most people have uncomfortable intrusive thoughts such as “what if I drive off the road?” but can let them go. People with OCD, however, believe the intrusive thoughts are real and that a part of them actually wants to drive off the road, which causes distress.
Many people with OCD may not have visible compulsions like handwashing or repeatedly checking to see if the door is locked, but rather compulsions that are entirely internal. Called thought compulsions, they typically fall into one of three categories: problem solving, reassurance and avoidance…
Please keep reading at:

MDOS Offers Free Dealer and Repair Facility Training

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Dealer Training | While dealer training is not mandatory for Class A dealers, it is still a valuable – and free – opportunity available through the Michigan Department of State (MDOS).

Dealer training covers the basic requirements of the Michigan Vehicle Code, dealer functions, licensing requirements, and Secretary of State e-Services. All licensed vehicle dealers and staff may attend training virtually through Microsoft Teams at no cost.

Repair Facility & Mechanic Training | MDOS also offers free virtual trainings to repair facility owners, managers, service advisers, and technicians. This course focuses on the basic requirements of the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Act, along with industry best practices.

These training opportunities are ideal for onboarding new team members and serve as an excellent refresher for experienced staff. Registration for training is available through e-Services.

Peak Times for Fall Color Across Michigan

Posted on by Summer
While every season in Michigan has something to appreciate, fall color changes are truly one of the state’s most beautiful attractions.
Spending time in nature in green spaces is associated with cognitive benefits, better mood and improved emotional well-being, so planning a fall color tour this year could be a great way to give your mental health a boost. And when you do start planning, you’ll want to know what kind of color changes you should expect at your destination.  This article is from A Healthier Michigan, brought to you by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. 

When do the leaves change in Michigan?

Starting in the western upper peninsula and moving down to the most southern point of the lower peninsula, the bulk of Michigan trees begin to see low color in mid-to-late September, according to Explore Fall, with peak color-changing times coming a few weeks later.
Although the timing of the most vibrant fall colors varies from year to year, this Michigan fall color map graphic gives you a look at the estimated start of color changes throughout the state in 2025, followed by projected moderate, peak and past peak color times:

Upper Peninsula

  • Start of color change: Sept. 15.
  • Moderate color: late September through early October.
  • Peak color: mid-October.
  • Past peak color: late October.

Northern Michigan

  • Start of color change: Sept. 22.
  • Moderate color: early October through mid October.
  • Peak color: mid-to-late October, beginning around Oct. 18.
  • Past peak color: late October, beginning around Oct. 28

Mid/Southern Michigan

  • Start of color change: Sept. 26.
  • Moderate color: mid October.
  • Peak color: late October, beginning around Oct. 22.
  • Past peak color: late October through early November.
*Color change in Great Lakes shoreline areas is typically 1-week behind inland areas.
Color develops as the trees break down the chlorophyll to prepare for winter. Pigments of the red, yellow, orange, and purple colors you see in the fall are always present in the leaves, but are overpowered by the green of the chlorophyll. As the green goes away with the chlorophyll, we’re left with beautifully vibrant landscapes before the leaves drop.
The fall equinox — which marks the end of summer and start of fall in 2025 — takes place at 2:19 p.m. on Sept. 22, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. So, what are you waiting for? This breathtaking Michigan scenery isn’t going to look at itself!

Automotive Leadership Expert Dave Anderson Joins the MADA Annual Meeting!

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MADA is excited to announce that Dave Anderson, founder of LearnToLead, will (virtually) join our association for the 2025 MADA Annual Meeting in December. Known as “Mr. Accountability,” Dave is the author of 16 leadership books and has spent decades helping automotive dealerships build high-performance teams.

Learn How to Master the Art of Accountability

Dave’s presentation on December 11 will provide dealership owners and management teams with essential tools to develop stronger accountability within the dealership. His discussion will cover:

  • Keys to developing the right accountability MINDSET – Transform how you think about holding others accountable
  • Keys to developing the right accountability SKILLSET – Learn practical techniques for effective accountability conversations
  • How to make accountability a positive tool in your coaching arsenal – Use this to develop and elevate your team
  • Master the most effective consequence for influencing human behavior – Understand what truly drives behavioral change
  • How to rightly apply consequences – Implement fair and effective consequence strategies

Dave’s “no nonsense” approach delivers actionable strategies that dealership leaders can implement to drive measurable improvements. Accountability protects your culture, brand, morale, and credibility. In leadership, this is a “must have.” This presentation will equip you with the mindset and tools necessary to hold others accountable effectively, even in today’s challenging environment.

Mark Your Calendar!

MADA Annual Meeting | Thursday, December 11, 2025

Learn more about Dave Anderson and his programs: https://www.andersonvt.com/#about

WEBINAR: Workers’ Comp Compliance with MADSIF

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MADSIF (Michigan Auto Dealers Self-Insured Fund) is a specialized workers’ compensation program designed exclusively for Michigan auto dealers, offering many advantages over traditional insurance carriers. It was created by Michigan dealers in the early 1990s and is run for the benefit of its dealer members, not agents or shareholders. This structure ensures that profits benefit the participating dealerships, rather than external shareholders.

Hundreds of MADA dealerships have partnered with MADSIF for its robust suite of services that support dealers with claims, MIOSHA compliance and inspections, and proactive loss control. Services are provided through a solid network of experts that have worked with Michigan auto dealers for more than 30 years.

This webinar is a great opportunity to learn more about MADSIF and how they are supporting Michigan dealers.

Michigan Bucket List: The Mackinac Bridge Walk

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Once a year on Labor Day, the Mackinac Bridge opens to tens of thousands of people to traverse it by foot. You can experience the longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere in an entirely different way than by car. The bridge, which opened in 1957 and connects Michigan’s two peninsulas, sits as high as 199 feet above the blue waters of Straits of Mackinac.

This article is from A Healthier Michigan, brought to you by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. 
The Mackinac Bridge Walk started in 1958 with 68 people. Now, as many as 60,000 people flock to Mackinaw City and St. Ignace to walk or run the bridge as the sun rises over Mackinac and Round islands. By tradition, the Michigan governor kicks off the walk at 7 a.m.

The annual Mackinac Bridge Walk and Run are essential Michigan bucket list items, especially if you love heights and the Great Lakes. Learn more about the events, where to park and how to participate.

2025 Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk

Location: South end of the bridge in Mackinaw City and Bridge View Park in St. Ignace
Time and date: 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 1
Bridge closure to traffic: 6:30 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free with no registration required
Website: Mackinac Bridge Authority

There are three options to cross the bridge:
  • One-way crossing from either St. Ignace or Mackinaw City. You have to arrange your own transportation back across the bridge once it reopens.
  • Double crossing: Walk from either St. Ignace or Mackinaw City and turn around to walk back. This is a 10-mile trip. You must reach the midpoint by 10 a.m.
  • Halfway turnaround: Start from either end of the bridge and turn around at the midway point by 10 a.m.

 

Keep reading for details about the Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Run.

https://www.ahealthiermichigan.org/stories/community/michigan-bucket-list-the-mackinac-bridge-walk

ALERT: Misleading Notice from Third-Party Filing Service

Posted on by Summer

MADA would like to thank a northern Michigan dealer for alerting us to a misleading solicitation that may appear, at first glance, to be an official notice from the State of Michigan.

The notice warns of a Past Due Annual Statement and claims the dealership “may be administratively dissolved or revoked if the Annual Statement is not filed within the grace period.” Upon further reading, the small print at bottom states:

…busfile.org Is wholly owned and operated by New Business Filing LLC and Is not affiliated with any government office or agency. New Business Filing offers self help business services at the request of and on behalf of the user.

This dealer verified their Annual Statement filing status directly on the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) website and confirmed that the annual filing had already been completed, months ago.

LARA just launched an updated search portal this week so dealers may may want to take this opportunity to get familiar with the new features, and while you’re at it, confirm your annual report/statement is current.

If you receive similar notices and are unsure of their legitimacy, feel free to contact MADA.

Fourth of July Fireworks in Michigan: 10 Displays to Check Out in 2025

Posted on by Summer
If you’re here, you must be wondering where you can go to watch the best fireworks in Michigan during the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
As you get your Independence Day plans in order, check out this list of 10 of the biggest, most elaborate fireworks displays and festivals planned across Michigan in 2025. The events are listed in order by date.
An article from A Healthier Michigan, brought to you by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. 

Ford Fireworks

When: 10 p.m. Monday, June 23
Where: 1 Hart Plaza in Detroit
Details: Detroit’s Ford Fireworks is celebrating its 67th edition. Ford Fireworks put on a large display of fireworks that are visible for miles over the Detroit River with more than 10,000 pyrotechnic effects and broadcast live on WDIV-Local 4. The event is free and open to the public with amazing views from Hart Plaza, Belle Isle and across our beautiful city. For more details, visit the site here.

Shelby Township and Stony Creek Metropark Fireworks

When: 10 p.m. Friday, June 27
Where: Stony Creek Metropark at 4300 Main Park Road, Shelby Twp.
Details: Tens of thousands of our neighbors gather over picnics and under the stars to enjoy this celebration and fireworks display. Live entertainment and vendors keep the atmosphere up until the fireworks display at 10 p.m. A Metroparks car pass is needed to enter and for parking. Learn more here.

Kensington Metropark Fireworks

When: 10 p.m. Saturday, June 28
Where: Kensington Metropark at 4570 Huron River Parkway in Milford
Details: The annual fireworks display in Kensington will start at 10 p.m., so make sure to get there ahead of time. The Kensington fireworks festival brings together tens of thousands of neighbors for snacks, fun and fireworks.

Willow Metropark Fireworks

When: At dusk Sunday, June 29
Where: Willow Metropark at 23200 S. Huron Road in New Boston
Details: The fireworks display will begin at dusk. Plan to arrive early for this free and popular fireworks event. Enjoy the park trails, playground and live entertainment provided by the American Ages Band prior to the fireworks. A Metroparks vehicle entry permit is required for this event.

Bay City Fireworks Festival

When: Thursday, July 3 through Saturday, July 5
Where: Wenona Park at 111 Center Ave. in Bay City and Veterans Memorial Park at John F Kennedy Drive in Bay City
Details: People travel from all over the United States to witness the Bay City amazing fireworks display. Whether you see the magnificent displays on either of the first two nights, you should know the magnificent grand finale show is put on the third evening. Learn more from the festival site.

Frankenmuth Fireworks at Volksläufe, The People’s Race

When: 9:30 p.m. July 3
Where: Downtown Frankenmuth
Details: Each year, the Frankenmuth Jaycees present this exciting and enjoyable Independence Day experience which includes races on July 4, as well as a fireworks celebration the night of July 3. Learn more from Frankenmuth’s website.
Keep reading for other fireworks displays in Michigan: https://www.ahealthiermichigan.org/stories/community/best-fireworks-in-michigan

TRAINING: State of Michigan Regulations & Compliance for Dealerships

Posted on by Summer

MADA is offering three dealership education programs in August to support continuing education for dealers, general managers, office staff and others. This training is covered by your annual MADA membership dues, with additional underwriting from MADA partners. There is no cost to attend, but you must be an MADA dealer-member in good standing to register.

  • MARQUETTE – August 5, 2025
  • GRAND RAPIDS – August 19, 2025
  • MIDLAND – August 20, 2025

TOPICS:

Dealer License Regulations | This session, presented by the Michigan Department of State, covers the basic requirements of the Michigan Vehicle Code, dealer functions, licensing requirements, and CARS e-Services.

MiEFS Training | The MDOS MiEFS team helps ensure secure electronic vehicle transaction processing. They will provide best practices on processing, paperwork and integration with CVR.

CVR User Group | This session from CVR will include new-user tips, processing guidance, inventory management, program updates, and other valuable information for those using CVR.

Sales & Use Tax Regulations | Presented by the Michigan Department of Treasury, this session will help dealerships stay compliant with complex sales and use tax laws. The training will cover tax reporting for vehicle transactions, exemptions, rebates, rescinded deals, and best practices for using Michigan Treasury Online (MTO). Please note: this topic is only scheduled in Marquette.

Q&A will be incorporated into the presentations, allowing attendees to further understand and request clarification about rules and regulations related to operating a dealership in Michigan.

Additional information and registration details will be emailed to dealers/staff who are on the weekly MADA newsletter list. Or email Summer Kniss at skniss@michiganada.org.

Thanks to support from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and CVR, this is a free program for MADA members.