Dear members,
I am excited to present you with the latest issue of the Montana Auto Dealer. Inside, we highlight some of MTADA’s successes and milestones from the past few months. Also, we look ahead at upcoming events and important legislative issues. And last but not least, we are highlighting a number of our amazing members and getting to know them better.
The 110th Annual Family Convention was held in August, and I am happy to say it was a huge success! Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to join us in Helena, and special thanks to Jillian for putting together another amazing convention. From the Opening Reception at the Lewis & Clark Brewing Company to the red, white and blue President’s Dinner, I enjoyed having fun and visiting with you. The Gates of the Mountains tour did not disappoint — I never cease to be amazed at the beauty and marvels of nature that are right in our backyard.
The 111th Annual Family Convention will be held Aug. 14-17, 2025. As we speak, Jillian is busy planning fun activities and adventures for the whole family. So get ready to make memories at the Kwataqnuk Resort & Casino in Polson, Montana! Located on the shores of Flathead Lake, just south of Glacier National Park, it is the perfect setting to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the great outdoors. Rumor has it that Jillian might just serenade us, karaoke-style, while on the Far West Boat Tour. You won’t want to miss it!
Congratulations to Don Kaltschmidt of Don “K” Whitefish on his retirement. Don has tirelessly served both MTADA and NADA for years and leaves behind a legacy of strength and commitment to bettering the industry. Don came from humble beginnings and, through hard work and determination, was able to attain the American dream. He loves this country and all it has provided him. He served as the chairman of the Montana Republican Party, helping to get good people elected and promoting values that encourage entrepreneurship so that others might have the chance to grab the brass ring for themselves. Thank you for everything, Don. You will be missed!
The Montana Legislature will be convening on Jan. 6, 2025. Although we aren’t running a franchise bill this session, we still will be watching as bills come to the floor to ensure that we give input on any that might affect our industry. In addition, NADA has put out a list of Legislative Priorities. I have included them here. Please be on the lookout for grassroots call-to-actions regarding the above‑mentioned legislative issues. MTADA will be sending out emails and making calls asking for your help. And who knows, I might even stop by and pay you a visit. When we lock arms and work together, we can create change, push back on dangerous legislation and ultimately, protect our industry.
I hope you enjoy reading this issue. Thank you for all that you do to help keep MTADA strong. As always, please reach out to me at (406) 461-7680 if you have any questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Bruce Knudsen
Executive Vice President, MTADA
