Soave: Newsletter Summer 2006

Communication

The wide–ranging Soave portfolio encompasses companies from truly diverse industries: real estate development, beverage distribution, automobile dealerships, metals recycling, and transportation services, among others. With a handful of exceptions, these company managers have had little opportunity to interact, but we do have much to learn from each other.

It’s critical to remember that the current high tech communication environment, which has significantly impacted our efficiency and productivity, also has its drawbacks.

If our communication tools are not used wisely, it is easy to become buried in transactional minutia. We find ourselves sharing a lot of data, but not enough vision. We can have a great deal of interaction without critical relationship building. We often run so fast we don’t take time to meaningfully connect. Our recent management meeting was more than just fact sharing, although that certainly was part of it. July’s gathering was an investment in relationships and a welcome reminder that it really is all about the people.

Communication about things that really matter often takes time and forethought. Certainly, we should all do more of it with our employees, our customers and our families. This type of communicating will make us different. And in this instance, what makes us different will truly make us better.

Checker Sedan: Now Official Curbside Luxury Sedan Service of Detroit Metro Airports

It has been a quick ride to the top for Checker Sedan. Effective July 1, 2006, the Soave-owned ground transportation company was awarded the contract for official curbside luxury sedan service at Detroit Metro Airport. The tremendous accomplishment takes place only six years since the division was formed as the luxury extension of Checker Cab Company.

“We have worked diligently to establish Checker Sedan as a reliable and competitively priced sedan service in the metro area,” said Tim McCarthy, President of Checker Sedan. “Being awarded the airport contract confirms that we have attained that distinction.”

In preparing to take over the airport contract, Checker Sedan embarked on an intensive initiative to expand its fleet of cars and team of qualified drivers and staff. The company invested in new top-of-the-line luxury sedans, including the first livery company fleet of Cadillac DES cars in the country, as well as extended Lincoln Town Cars and Chrysler 300 cars.

The company has also increased its staffing to accommodate the airport work. Approximately 150 open positions have been filled by independently contracted drivers who are certified to operate luxury sedans as well as full - and part -time employees who staff Checker Sedan’s customer service, dispatch, garage service and administrative positions.

“Our customers are busy, and traveling can be stressful,” says McCarthy. “Our goal is to make our service as responsive and convenient as possible for them. Our superior technology and customer service are designed so that each trip is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible for the passenger.”

For more information about Checker Sedan, visit their website at: www.checkersedan.com, or contact by phone: (313) 963-1000.

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Team Soave to Participate in "Walk for Diabetes

The ACT Activities Committee is pleased to announce the creation of TEAM SOAVE, our corporate identity dedicated to participating in charity events and worthy causes.

Our first fundraising opportunity will be the American Diabetes Association's “Walk for Diabetes” on Belle Isle. We are currently seeking walkers and donations for the October 1st event. Our corporate goal is to raise $2,500 with at least 20 walkers.

Tax-deductible donations can be made on-line with a credit card, or your contribution check can be made payable to the American Diabetes Association and delivered to Human Resources. To make a donation online, visit: www.soave.com/about/teamsoave_diabetes.php

Soave SPECTRUM is developed and published by Soave Enterprises LLC for and about the employees and the companies owned by Anthony Soave. Entire contents © 2008 Soave Enterprises LLC. All rights reserved; reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.