HOUSTON — With less than 30 days remaining before the 10th Annual National Buy-Here, Pay-Here Conference on May 6 to 8 in Las Vegas, I have received numerous calls regarding the event. The most frequently asked questions and my responses follow:

Question 1: Given the very difficult economy, should I spend the time and money to come this year?

Answer: The difficult economic environment presents some new and different challenges caused by the subprime mortgage crisis, tightening capital markets, inflationary cost increases, immigration issues and others.

You can try to solve these problems by yourself using trial and error, or you can network with others, which will save you millions of dollars in losses. In the long term, the aforementioned challenges will create many new BHPH customers and unprecedented profit opportunities, but you must get past the next 12 months in order to capitalize on them!

Question 2: Where and how can I obtain the capital needed to face these current challenges?

Answer: We have assembled virtually all of the industry's major capital providers at the show who will explain what to do. In addition, many other capital providers are attending.

We have three separate presentations designed specifically to identify and help you obtain the capital you need. This is a unique opportunity to meet them all in one place and to network with them.

Question 3: I came last year, so will I hear anything new at NABD 2008?

Answer: Remember this is the only event each year exclusively for BHPH. The industry is changing so rapidly that 12 months is a lifetime!

We have added many new speakers and presentations this year like a financial managers' panel, an advertising experts' panel and six excellent workshops. None of these were part of prior shows.

In addition, the benchmarks and industry trend and outlook information you receive will be invaluable as you navigate through 2008!

Question 4: If I'm new to the industry or just considering entering it, will the show benefit me?

Answer: Yes, we have three separate presentations for people who are new to the industry. In addition, networking with many successful operators and a trip through our sold-out exhibit hall will also be beneficial.

Many new-car franchise dealers have already registered as they consider BHPH as an important new profit center.

Question 5: Can we still get discounted room rates at the Las Vegas Hilton?

Answer: Yes, but you must act quickly! Our room block expires on Friday, April 11 and is subject to availability, so you need to reserve your room today to be assured of substantial discounts. All of the rooms have been updated and renovated, and upgrades are available.

Question 6: Who should I bring?

Answer: This year's program is designed for owners, finance managers, general managers, supervisors and all of your key employees. All will benefit from the general education sessions, the workshops and vendor presentations, in addition to networking with their peers.

Because some of the sessions are concurrent, at least two attendees from each company is recommended.

Question 7: How can I register?

Answer: Online at www.bhphinfo.com, by fax at (713) 680-2474, or by phone at (713) 290-8171. Availability is limited, so everyone is encouraged to register as soon as possible.

Question 8: What can I expect to learn from this year's show?

Answer: The conference theme is "Facing New Challenges." The educational program will focus on proven strategies to improve profits and cash flow, where to find capital, how to locate the best customers and how to avoid legal and regulatory mistakes that can be very costly.

Given the difficult economy, this conference has been structured to prepare attendees to meet all these challenges more successfully. This is our 10th anniversary show, and we consider it our most important!