But first, a word from our sponsor

“Parsons is a partner in 9 jurisdictions across North America, providing integrated vehicle inspection solutions to streamline the emissions and safety testing process while reducing or eliminating fraud. We partner with Motor Vehicle Administrations to deliver distributed and self-service solutions which increase motorist convenience, such as 24-hour kiosks and decentralized testing provided by privately-owned new car dealers.”

Brandon Errol Schaefer

The association is saddened by the passing of Brandon Schaefer, who served as part-owner and General Manager at Nationwide Automotive Group, a family-owned and operated business for more than 60 years.

Brandon was the devoted husband of Karen Schaefer, his partner of 29 years, whose life was intertwined with his through love, laughter, and unwavering support. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising their cherished daughters, Stephanie Schaefer, Kristin Schaefer, and Kylie Schaefer, who were the center of his world and his greatest pride. 

He was adored and predeceased by his mother, Dolores Schaefer (Dolly) and is survived by his devoted father, William H. Schaefer, Jr. (Bill), and his stepmother Vicki Romine Schaefer.

He is also survived by his loving siblings, brothers Willian H. Schaefer III, Kevin Schaefer (Peggy Freeman Schaefer), and sister Robyn Schaefer, along with many extended family members and dear friends. Brandon was preceded in death by his brother Daniel Schaefer (Mary Bagliani Schaefer) whom he held close in his heart.

Visitation is at Ruck Funeral Home, Towson, on April 16 from 2–4 and 6–8 p.m

We offer our deepest condolences to Brandon Schaefer's family during this difficult time.

MADA CHECKLIST ✅

⭕️ MADA Title & Registration Seminar

When: April 22, 2026 from 9am-12pm

Where: The Other Barn — 5851 Robert Oliver Pl, Columbia MD 21045

⭕️ MADA Inaugural Hall of Fame Gala and Annual Meeting

We are delighted to invite you to the MADAF Inaugural Hall of Fame Gala and Annual Meeting on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at the The Westin Annapolis.

Join us as we honor the exceptional achievements of our 2026 Hall of Fame inductees

• Clarence “Chuck” Cromwell Boyle, Jr. (1951-2025)

• Jack Fitzgerald, Jr. (1935-2025)

• Alfred (Al) P Shockley (1932-2021)

• Vincent Philip Trasatti, Sr. (1930-2025)

⭕️ MOTOR VEHICLE DEALER BONDS

By

MADA is now officially offering instant Motor Vehicle Dealer Surety Bonds. The process has never been so easy and thanks to MADA bonds powered by Propeller, you can get approved in minutes.

Click below for an instant bond at a competitive price!

⭕️ ONE PLATE MD

MADA is leading the fight to make Maryland a One Plate State! Requiring two plates is redundant, expensive, and compromises the form and function of modern vehicles. We believe Maryland can confidently follow the example of other states that have switched to a one-plate system and have experienced no negative impacts on safety or enforcement. We invite you to join us in supporting this practical update to our state’s laws.

Click the link below and sign up to support our cause. All submitted names will be used to show Maryland legislators their voting constituents support one license plate in Maryland!

🚨 BREAKING 🚨

Gov. Wes Moore Signs 2027 Budget without Raising Taxes or Fees

In Summary

Wes Moore signed Maryland’s fiscal 2027 budget, approving a roughly $70 billion plan focused on maintaining funding for key priorities. The budget prioritizes support for K–12 schools, higher education, Medicaid, public safety, and transportation projects across the state. To manage a projected deficit, strategic spending cuts and efficiency measures were taken rather than building new revenue. the results; A budget that does not raise statewide taxes or fees. The Governor aims to ease the financial burden on MD residents while maintaining proper funding for essential program like public safety and education. Take a moment this afternoon and listen to the bill signing live stream above (29:57) while you go through your inbox and hear it from the Governor himself.

Remembering those we’ve lost and giving back ❤️

One year ago today, heaven gained a special man. But his legacy is everywhere.

Mr. Jack Fitzgerald began his career as a determined 20-year-old door-to-door salesman, whose natural ability to connect with others led him into the automotive industry. His vision and leadership soon placed him at the forefront of the field. As the founder of Fitzgerald Auto Malls, Jack built more than a business - he built a better way to do it.

Honesty. Transparency. Respect.

The foundation of The FitzWay.

In 2023, he made sure that legacy would live on - transitioning Fitzgerald Auto Malls to 100% employee ownership, so the people behind the work could share in its success.

Jack believed in doing right by people - always. And that’s how we continue to honor him.

Thank you, Jack. 🤍

Last week, we celebrated our Full Circle Auto Training Center graduates and it was nothing short of inspiring.

Each graduate shared powerful reflections on how this program has impacted their lives and changed the trajectory of their future. Their stories are a true testament to what opportunity, support, and determination can do.

We couldn’t be prouder of this incredible group and are so excited to see where their journeys take them next.

his month is all about loving our Earth 💚🌍

#SubaruLovesTheEarth is back, and for the second year in a row, Subaru is partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation to give away free trees. 🌱

More details to come on how you can get yours! Here’s a look back at our team and some of the trees we've planted in recent years. 🌳

In case you missed it!

Presented by

Dealer Pay MADA & DATDA Webinar: Uncover Hidden Payment Costs

In this webinar, hosted by MADA (Maryland Automobile Dealers Association) and DATDA, Dealer Pay's Stacy King and Justin Rocco share expert insights on cost management in the automotive industry. Learn how to streamline payment processes, reduce hidden fees, and protect your dealership's margins in a competitive market.

💡 What You'll Learn:
- How payment inefficiencies impact profitability.
- Identifying and eliminating hidden costs in payment processing.
- The benefits of integrated payment platforms for dealerships.
- Real-world examples of cost savings and operational improvements.

🎙️ Featured Speakers:
- Stacy King: Director of Partner Relations, Dealer Pay
- Justin Rocco: Maryland & Delaware Sales Manager, Dealer Pay

📩 Need Help?
- Dealer Pay offers statement reviews and expert advice to ensure your dealership is compliant and not overpaying on fees, even if you’re not a current customer.
- Take control of your dealership's costs and improve your bottom line today!