compliments to BJ's Auto and Collision in Denver, Colo., who entered the winning bid for a private tour of Jay Leno's Garage, to benefit the benefit the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) and its work to support collision repair educational programs, schools and students

"I heard about CREF's auction from my BASF paint supplier, and since we're big fans of Jay Leno, Lisa and I were very interested. We agreed to start with a $5000 bid, adjusting our bid as it increased because we had our hearts set on it. We were still shocked that we won with a bid of $10,600. We feel fortunate that we've won such an amazing experience, especially knowing that the funds are benefitting such a great cause: the future of our industry."

As the auction winner, Penrod will be permitted to take three guests on his private tour of Big Dog Garage

The Penrods hope to also get a tour of the Foose company while they are in the area

Although Penrod was unaware of CREF's mission prior to learning about the auction, he recognized the importance of their work immediately. "There's a shortage of body men because few members of the younger generations want to be in this industry. CREF's goal is to bring these younger guys into the industry and make sure they are skilled when they enter the workforce. The work CREF does is important, and I'm happy to know that the funds are ensuring future collision repairers are receiving a proper education - through this auction, not only do I get to fulfill one of my dreams, I also know I'm helping to make someone else's dreams come true by ensuring they receive the training needed to be successful.

"We are besides ourselves with joy that we won this auction and get to support these young guys and gals who will be in entering the industry," Penrod continued. "This collaboration is a great deal for everyone involved, and all we can say to CREF and Stertil-Koni is 'thank you, thank you, thank you!'"


Industry members interested in supporting the Collision Repair Education Foundation's efforts to assist secondary and post-secondary collision repair training programs should contact Brandon Eckenrode, Director of Development, at 312-231-0258 or Brandon.Eckenrode@ed-foundation.org.