Governor Jerry Brown signed into law legislation to establish the California Legacy License Plate Program. Under the new law, the DMV will create and issue a series of specialized license plates that replicate plates from the state's past. Previously, classic car owners could only revive well-maintained old plates that match the vintage of their vehicle. Among other things, the new law will bring a retro look to modern license plates by allowing consumers to choose from one of three classic designs from the ’50s–’60s (black lettering on yellow background or yellow lettering on black background) and ’70s–’80s (yellow lettering on blue background). The law requires that at least 7,500 applications for any one particular plate must be received by the DMV by January 1, 2015. 

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

In 2007, California began requiring car manufacturers to give electronic key replacement information to registered locksmiths so lost electronic keys could be replaced 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To allow manufacturers adequate time to comply, a six-year exception was made for manufacturers that provide a replacement key overnight. Legislation to permanently exempt certain vehicle manufacturers from the requirement to provide locksmiths with electronic key code information was vetoed by Governor Jerry Brown. The bill would also have made permanent the requirement that exempted manufacturers operate a request line whereby owners could obtain a replacement key within one day of the request or via overnight delivery from the manufacturer. The governor claimed that the 24/7 standard for car key replacement should apply uniformly to all manufacturers.  

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

California legislation to allow driverless cars to be operated on public roads for testing purposes, provided that each vehicle has a fully licensed and bonded operator in the driver’s seat to take control if necessary, was signed into law. With the goal of eventually permitting autonomous vehicles to be driven on California roadways, the bill instructs the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to adopt regulations that govern the licensing, bonding, testing and operation of such vehicles. The bill also instructs the DMV to adopt the new regulations as soon as practicable, but no later than January 1, 2015. 

For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to increase the regulation of flame-retardant chemicals known as polybrominated diphenylether (PBDEs) that are added to plastics and many other materials. PBDEs decrease the likelihood of fires and, once started, slow the chemical reactions that drive oxygen-dependent fires. PBDEs are found in polystyrene, polyurethane foam, wire and cable insulation, electrical connectors and many other materials. They appear in a wide variety of products, including automotive carpets and fabrics and electronic circuit boards. 

The EPA is proposing to effectively phase-out decabromodiphenyl ether (decaBDE) by December 2013. The EPA would also regulate six other chemicals, including octabromodiphenyl ether (octaBDE) and pentabromodiphenyl ether (pentaBDE) under the Toxic Substances Control Act’s Significant New Use Rule. This means companies that process the chemicals after 2013 would be required to notify and be subject to EPA approval at least 90 days in advance of producing a new product and, for octaBDE, pentaBDE and decaBDE, conduct health and environmental tests. 

The EPA has expressed concern that these PBDEs may pose liver, thyroid or other human health risks. Although many of the chemicals are no longer manufactured or used in the United States, they still appear in imported products or materials used to produce the goods. As of 2006, California already prohibits the manufacture, distribution and processing of octaBDE and pentaBDE. 

The EPA contends that only one small company will be impacted by its rule. SEMA is seeking to verify that claim with respect to its members. If your company is currently using decaBDE, octaBDE, pentaBDE, tetrabromodiphenyl ether (tetraBDE), hexabromodiphenyl ether (hexaBDE), heptabromodiphenyl ether (heptaBDE) or nonabromodiphenyl ether nonaBDE), or working with products or component parts that may contain any of these chemicals, please contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

	Malcolm Johnson, CEO of Bryn Dana, at the 2011 SEMA China Business Development program explaining how to use his products to buyers. Later this month, Johnson is holding a training session in Van Nuys, California.

Bryn Dana International is hosting a training seminar, October 26–27, at its Matrix/ColorBond training facility in Van Nuys, California, for top buyers from China. Bryn Dana’s CEO Malcolm Johnson first met these representatives from CARNET during SEMA's one-on-one 2011 SEMA China Business Development program in Beijing. The Bryn Dana International seminar is designed to train its dealers in the repair of automotive carpet, vinyl, leather and hard plastics, which is common in the United States, but not yet available in China.

NEWS NUGGETS

BROWN, BECKMAN, ENDERS, KRAWIEC SAY ‘SEE YOU’ IN ST. LOUIS: Antron Brown raced to his sixth Top Fuel victory of the season last Sunday at the AAA Insurance NHRA Midwest Nationals at Gateway Motorsports Park, and in the process, increased his championship points lead. Jack Beckman (Funny Car), Erica Enders (Pro Stock) and Eddie Krawiec (Pro Stock Motorcycle) also were winners of the event—the first race for the NHRA in the St. Louis area in more than two years. Brown defeated championship rival Spencer Massey in the final round and moved 21 points ahead of the Texas driver with only three races remaining in the Full Throttle Countdown to the Championship playoffs. Brown, who battled side by side with Massey all weekend, took the victory with a final-round performance of 3.766 seconds at 325.22 mph in his Matco Tools/Aaron’s dragster, while Massey trailed with a 3.812 at 324.05 in his FRAM/Prestone dragster.

“Our team hit a grand slam here this weekend,” Brown said. “We qualified No. 1 and took it one round at a time. It was a great weekend, but it’s always a struggle. This class is very competitive, and these guys aren’t playing anymore. You have your struggles here and there, and you have to keep on overcoming them. I’m just so happy for our Aaron’s/Matco guys.”

Brown beat Bruce Litton, Steve Torrence and Brandon Bernstein in early rounds before unleashing his quickest run of the day in the final against Massey. “It was a stressful day where we matched up against some great competition,” Brown said. “Matching up against my teammate [Massey] in the final was big—we’ve been back and forth in the points. It’s great to have six wins, but right now, they’re all in the past. We need to go back to the shop and get focused on these last three races. It’s just so competitive out here, and this points race is going to go down to the last race.”

For more on this story, visit www.nhra.com.

JENKINS TRIBUTE, INTENSE RACING, MUCH MORE AT AUTO-PLUS NHRA NATIONALS: The pressure is building for NHRA Full Throttle Series drivers who are aching to return to Maple Grove Raceway for the 28th annual Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals, October 4–7, which is also the fourth race in the six-race Full Throttle Countdown to the Championship—the NHRA playoffs. The Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals will pay a special tribute to one of the NHRA’s most iconic names in Pro Stock—Pennsylvania native Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins, who died earlier this year. A Grumpy Car Corral, Grump Parade and a Sunday Track Walk with members of the Jenkins family are planned in commemoration of his life and legacy. All Sunday ticket holders can take advantage of this free tribute Track Walk with the opportunity to walk side-by-side, interact with some of the NHRA’s most popular drivers while they remember “Grumpy”—one of drag racing’s greatest pioneers.

In celebration of Maple Grove Raceway’s 50th Anniversary, fans will be treated to numerous festivities all weekend long, including the “50 Cars for 50 Years” display featuring some of the coolest cars selected from events held at Maple Grove. The display will be located near Nitro Alley on Sunday. The top 10 drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will continue their charges during the playoffs that kicked off mid-September in Charlotte, North Carolina. Defending event champions Spencer Massey (Top Fuel); Robert Hight (Funny Car); Jason Line (Pro Stock); and Hector Arana Jr. (Pro Stock Motorcycle) are pushing hard to return to the winner’s circle at the Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals en route to the NHRA Full Throttle world championship. As always, every ticket is a pit pass giving fans unlimited access to the sport’s biggest stars for autographs and photo opportunities. For tickets to the Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals, call 610-856-7200 or log on to www.maplegroveraceway.com.

BROWN TICKELED PINK TO DRIVE MATCO’S TOOLS FOR THE CAUSE DRAGSTER TO DELIVER MESSAGE, RAISE FUNDS: Breast cancer has touched everyone, and the team at Don Schumacher Racing (DSR) can be counted on that list. Linda Matranga, mother-in-law of DSR’s NHRA Top Fuel points-leading driver Antron Brown of the Matco Tools team, is a breast cancer survivor. So is Ellen Tobler, wife of DSR’s NHRA Funny Car points-leading crew chief Rahn Tobler. Those close connections to the disease will put added luster on DSR’s special-edition pink Matco Tools dragster, which Brown will drive wearing a pink firesuit and helmet at three NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events to help promote Matco’s Tools for the Cause campaign to benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure organization.

“Wearing my pink suit and driving that pink dragster will be just like flying Matco’s red, white and blue colors. It’s great to be part of Matco and be able to help others,” Brown said. “That’s God’s way and the American way.” From October 1, 2012, through September 30, 2013, Matco Tools will donate 15% of the sale of specially marked products to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, with a guaranteed minimum donation of $100,000. Brown’s unique firesuit, helmet and the race team’s pink crew shirts will be on eBay.com in November, all proceeds of which will go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Visit www.nhra.com for more on this story.

FULL THROTTLE COUNTDOWN TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP HITS MIDWAY POINT: With half of the Full Throttle Countdown to the Championship playoff races complete, only three events remain, and it is becoming critical for title challengers to make a move at one of the three upcoming events—the Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals, October 4–7 at Maple Grove Raceway in Reading, Pennsylvania, Big O Tires NHRA Nationals, October 25–28 at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and the Auto Club NHRA Finals, November 8–11 at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona in Southern California. At the midway point, in Top Fuel, leader and playoff top seed Antron Brown holds a 21-point edge over teammate Spencer Massey. Seven-time world champ Tony Schumacher and Al-Anabi Racing’s Shawn Langdon are well within striking distance with, as history has shown, two very capable teams. In Funny Car, top seed Ron Capps holds a 30-point lead over teammate Jack Beckman, while Mike Neff is 99 points back in his Castrol Ford Mustang. The biggest mover in Funny Car has been Tim Wilkerson, who has jumped from 10th to fifth in the first three playoff events. Another top seed, Pro Stock’s Allen Johnson holds a 109-point lead over defending world champ Jason Line. Johnson has advanced to the final in all three Countdown events, winning once. Erica Enders has some momentum from her win last weekend in St. Louis, which moved her to third in the standings. In Pro Stock Motorcycle, defending world champ and top seed Eddie Krawiec earned his seventh victory of the season in St. Louis and increased his series lead to 33 over teammate Andrew Hines.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

AUTO-PLUS NHRA NATIONALS, Maple Grove Raceway, October 4–7: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series returns to Pennsylvania to make its 21st stop of 23 events in 2012, and the fourth race of the Countdown to the Championship. The 2011 winners included Spencer Massey (Top Fuel), Robert Hight (Funny Car), Jason Line (Pro Stock) and Hector Arana Jr. (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.

BIG O TIRES NHRA NATIONALS, The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, October 26–28: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 22nd stop of 23 events in the 2012 season, and the fifth race of the Countdown to the Championship—the NHRA’s playoffs. Drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points towards the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners of the event were Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Eddie Krawiec (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-644-4444 or log on to LVMS.com.


AUTO CLUB OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NHRA FINALS, Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, November 8–11: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its final stop of the 2012 season. Drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points towards the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. One driver from each category will walk away a champion at the end of the day. The 2011 winners of the event were Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Greg Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Andrew Hines (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com. For media credentials, contact Director of Media Relations Anthony Vestal at avestal@nhra.com.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

ENDERS’ FIRST WIN IN THE COUNTDOWN SHOWS SHE IS A TRUE TITLE CONTENDER: GK Motorsports driver Erica Enders raced to her fourth Pro Stock victory of the season and her first Countdown playoff win Sunday at St. Louis. With the 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series season coming to a close, Enders sits third in the Countdown to the Championship points standings and one race win closer to a potential world title.

“It is a total team effort every week,” she said. “My team is the reason why I get to do this. They’re great. They helped me get down a tricky track when other guys were getting in pedal-fests. We were a little behind performance-wise in the final, but we made a good run, and I did my job.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

3.737: BROWN CLOCKS CAREER-BEST TIME IN ST. LOUIS: Top Fuel points leader Antron Brown earned a bunch of qualifying bonus points during the AAA Insurance NHRA Midwest Nationals at Gateway Motorsports Park last weekend. Three of those points came during his Friday night blast of 3.737 seconds, which vaulted him to the No. 1 qualifying position for the event. The performance was a track record and a career-best for Brown and ranked as the third-quickest run in NHRA history.
 


	In addition to new products and the latest innovations from the specialty-equipment industry, the SEMA Show features a world-class education program that offers the latest in business insight and strategies specific to the automotive aftermarket.

SEMA Show exhibitors looking for ways to effectively use social-media tools and outreach at trade shows may want to read the articles linked below. Exhibitors are also encouraged to use @ tag “@The SEMA Show” on Facebook, and to tag items on Instagram and Twitter with the #SEMASHOW hashtag.

• "Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, FourSquare – How to Use Social Media at Trade Shows"

• "Five Components You Should Include in Your Trade Show Social Media Plan"

In addition to the articles, the SEMA Show will include several social-media- and online-marketing-themed sessions as a part of Education Days. Below are examples from the SEMA Show's Online Marketing Conference - Powered by eBay Motors—sessions and presentations that cover pertinent marketing strategies and topics, such as landing-page optimization, Facebook, mobile site development, search-engine optimization (SEO), search-engine marketing (SEM), pay per click (PPC), website analytics, video SEO, video marketing, reputation management and more.

"Mobile Marketing Part 1: Driving Sales, Engagement and Loyalty Through Mobile Devices"

When: October 31 - 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Where: Las Vegas Convention Center, N254

Powered by SEMA's Street Performance Council (SPC), this session, presented by Jeff Hasen of HipCricket, is part one of a two-part series. Changes in consumer behavior are dramatically changing the way that discovery, investigation and purchases are being made online. Without a shift to the mobile web, many companies will find themselves battling even harder for attention and reach with online browsers. How can businesses successfully plan and implement a mobile strategy? Tips and tricks to going mobile. How local search is affecting mobile consumers. The session features a 30-minute, open-floor Q&A for the conclusion.

"How Mobile Apps Are Changing Your Business Now and Forever"

When: November 1 - 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Where: Las Vegas Convention Center, N257

This interactive forum will explore how mobile apps and mobile web are changing the landscape of the automotive industry, specifically the aftermarket space. Learn how not to get left behind, as mobile apps and other emerging technologies, such as augmented reality, near-field communications and smart TV, have matured to true business applications to run more efficiently in both the B2B and B2C spaces in the automotive aftermarket. The forum will be hosted by Michael Beller, vice president of Mediaworks/Emerging Media at Source Interlink Media, as well as some special guests. Live demos and lots of Q&A ensure this will be a good session to attend. In addition to the professional insight offered during the session, Source Interlink Media will raffle off an iPad loaded with extras.

More information on the 2012 SEMA Show is available online at www.SEMAShow.com.

	Goolsby Customs' Pinewood hot-rod entry, before and after.

The 2012 Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Reception will include a live auction to support SEMA Cares and increase awareness for the third-annual HRIA Pinewood Builder’s Challenge. Fifteen well-known builders created one-of-a-kind miniature hot rods in the style of Pinewood derby cars. The cars were raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races in Pomona, California. These cars will be on display at the annual SEMA Show and then 12 will be placed on eBay for auction from October 30–November 8, and three will be auctioned live. All proceeds from the auction will go to support SEMA Cares and its two children’s charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction.

We caught up with Josh Henning of Goolsby Customs.

Describe the inspirations behind the design of your pinewood car.

Our inspiration came from the old drag racers, such as Tony Nancy, Tommy Ivo and Don Garlits, and their wild paint jobs and overall look. These guys had style and helped transform fast cars into cool cars!

Describe some of the materials and resources you used to build your car.

We tried to build this Pinewood much like a kid in the ’60s would have (if they had access to a cool painter). The body was made from the wood out of the kit, then the other parts were just built from whatever else we could find. Sometimes it's good to leave all the modern niceties behind and get back to the ways they used to have to do it.

Why is it important for you to participate in the Pinewood Challenge?

The Pinewood challenge is important because of the huge honor of being recognized with all these great builders who are working together for charity. And come on, whose arm do you really have to twist to get someone to play with a toy car?

	Tom Marx

The week after the SEMA Show is a prime opportunity to generate results from your marketing and sales efforts. With a bundle of leads—vendors, customers, prospects, media reps and industry peers—the week following the Show is a crucial time for follow-up.

Join Tom Marx, The Marx Group, and the SEMA Education Institute (SEI), Thursday, October 11, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT) for a session that will help you learn how to make good on all of your company promises with the delivery of sales material, products, technical advice and so on. To obtain the greatest return on your investment, a post-Show strategy is necessary. From the development of a trade show lead form to a timetable for response, we will present some quick and easy tools that will help you turn leads into sales.

Don't leave your SEMA Show strategy to chance! Join Tom Marx and SEI, Thursday, October 11, at 10:00 a.m. (PDT) and nail down your post-Show strategy.

Participate live or download the webinar when it’s convenient. And remember: SEMA webinars are free to SEMA members and only $29 for non-members.

	Exhibitors that wish to receive their badges in advance and delivered by UPS must register booth personnel by October 12.

Exhibitor badges for the 2012 SEMA Show will be arriving soon for those companies that have already registered their booth personnel. Each exhibiting company will have all badges mailed together in one package and delivered by UPS to the exhibitor contact during the week of October 8.

Exhibitors who wish to receive their badges in advance and delivered by UPS must register booth personnel by October 12. After October 12, exhibitors will have to pick up badges onsite at the SEMA Show's Registration Hall.

For assistance, or if you have questions regarding the status of your badge mailing, contact Compusystems customer service at 866-229-3687 or e-mail aapexsema@compusystems.com.

For companies that have not yet committed to exhibiting at the 2012 SEMA Show, there is still time to get a booth. To get started, visit www.SEMAShow.com/buyabooth.

Exhibiting media badges are not mailed in advance of the Show. Exhibiting media will be able to pick up their badges in the Media Center. Sponsored by Continental Tires, the Media Center is an area available exclusively to credentialed media and includes facilities and resources specifically to assist editors and reporters.

Want to attend the 2012 SEMA Show? Attendees who register for the Show prior to October 15—the last day to save $50 on early-bird registration—will have their badges delivered via mail. Those attendees who register after the October 15 deadline will have to pick up their badges at the Show. Attendee registration is available on the home page of www.SEMAShow.com.

UPS is the Preferred Carrier for the 2012 SEMA Show and the official logistics provider to SEMA members.

The SEMA Show’s Ideas Alive: Featuring the New Products Showcase—one of the Show’s most popular events—enables manufacturers to share their newest products and best ideas to some 60,000 buyers. But once the Showcase is over, exhibitors face the task of getting their products packed and returned safely.

UPS offers a time-saving solution: Pre-arranged return shipping at the New Products Showcase check-in area.

With pre-arranged shipping, Showcase products will be packed by a shipping professional and sent to their destinations, getting exhibitors home faster after a long and productive week.

“The New Products Showcase is an exciting and eye-opening event,” said Kristin DeBates, corporate marketing manager for the UPS Automotive Segment. “UPS understands how important the Showcase is for exhibitors and the role it can play in the growth of their businesses. Making our customers’ lives easier through logistics is our passion, so we’re pleased to provide a worry-free way to get their products back home.”

UPS is the Preferred Carrier for the 2012 SEMA Show and the official logistics provider to SEMA members. Headquartered in Atlanta, UPS serves more than 220 countries and territories worldwide.

Don't forget to pick up your SEMA-member ribbon during the 2012 SEMA Show at the Member Ribbon Bar located in the Las Vegas Convention Center's Association Center and Members Lounge. A limited-time benefit, exclusive only to SEMA and council members, these ribbons reveal your individuality and role as a SEMA member. Ribbons are designed for council members, SEMA new members and SEMA veteran members. These ribbons give you access to the SEMA Members Lounge, help identify which councils you are associated with, and support networking opportunities at SEMA events and on the Show floor.

Visit the Association Center, located in the Grand Lobby, and the Members Lounge, located on the upper level of the Grand Lobby (N251), to pick up your limited-edition SEMA-member ribbons. If you would like to learn more about SEMA membership or join a specific council, stop by the Association Center Tuesday, October 30–Friday, November 2. We look forward to seeing you represent your unique member ribbons at the SEMA Show.

Jon Wyly	Jim Graven

After just five months, the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) has reached a milestone with its 100th supplier member joining the group. The program, which launched its beta phase in April, now includes 100 manufacturer members, 40 data receivers and exports from more than 25 brands. The list of all 100 supplier members is available at www.SemaDataCoop.org.

"Signups are running well ahead of projected goals, and coding of the fully functional production system is running on schedule for a demonstration debut at the SEMA Show," said Jim Graven, SDC director of membership. For the first time ever, industry professionals will be able to view free demonstrations of the SDC system in Booth #20579 at the 2012 SEMA Show. Visitors will also be able to meet with technical experts and learn how product data management can increase business. Suppliers and receivers may also schedule individual one-on-one consultations by signing up online.

After the SEMA Show, the SDC will transition out of the beta phase and focus on the full system launch scheduled for January 2013.

Jon Wyly, SDC CEO, commented, "Industry support has been outstanding. We look forward to expanding our capabilities when we go live in January. Our goal of educating and training suppliers to manage their own product data is being very well received."

The SEMA Data Co-op is an industry-owned and -operated project designed to bring full product data management capabilities to participating suppliers at the lowest possible cost. Features include a secure, industry-standards-based centralized data repository, extensive on-boarding tools, expert live training and technical assistance and unlimited standard or fully customized data exports.

To learn more about the program, visit www.SemaDataCoop.org or contact Jim Graven at JimG@SemaDataCoop.org or call 888-958-6698.

	The General Motors Design Awards program will feature the best, most innovative builds in various categories. Apply to enter your vehicle now.

General Motors will again present Design Awards for various categories at this year’s SEMA Show. Categories will be divided into two groups:

• Vehicles: Cars, SUVs, trucks, hot rods, restored vehicles
• Technology: Component/system designs

Categories will be judged Monday–Wednesday, October 29–31. An award breakfast will be held Thursday, November 1, from 7:30 a.m.– 9:00 a.m. in the Las Vegas Convention Center. Since hundreds of applicants are expected, only the winners will be notified of the breakfast invitation Wednesday, October 31, 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

Feature vehicle display locations may not be provided until Sunday or Monday afternoon of the Show. Component Design Awards will be presented to the design/manufacturing company, and Vehicle Awards will be presented to the vehicle owner. Participants may submit applications for multiple vehicles and components.

The deadline to submit applications is Wednesday, October 24. Submit one vehicle or component application per sheet and fax the form(s) to 313-667-5001. Apply now, and provide location information to GM's Bob Kern via cell phone at 313-300-9471.

For more information, contact Bob Kern at 313-300-9471 or rob_eagle22@yahoo.com.

	Refer to the SEMA Show's Deadline Checklist so you don't miss out on important dates.

Many deadlines are coming tomorrow (Friday, October 5), so continuously review the Deadline Checklist and make sure you take advantage of the advance rate as much as possible. Below are those deadlines that will be passing over the next couple of weeks:

Cable Order (Advance Rate) – Smart City		October 5
Booth Security Guard Service (Advance Rate)		October 5
Internet/Telephone Order (Advance Rate)		October 5
New Products Entry (Advance Rate)		October 5
Members Lounge Conference Room Reservation		October 5
Project Vehicle Builders		October 5
Rental Exhibit Order (Advance Rate) – Freeman		October 5
Changing Your Target Time – Freeman		October 5

The following items have a deadline of next Friday, October 12. Many relate to Freeman services. The hyperlinks below take you directly to a pdf that you can print out on your computer. Ordering services online can be made through Freeman.

• After-Hours Events
• Carpet and Cleaning Order (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Electrical Order (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Exhibit Accessories (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor (EAC) Application
• Exhibitor Booth Insurance (if purchased from John Buttine)
• Exhibit Furnishings (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Exhibitor Product Training Sessions
• Exhibitor Registration Due – Domestic (To Receive Badges in Mail)
• Hanging Truss, Chain Hoist, Lighting and Stagehand Labor (Advance Rate) - Freeman
• Labor, Installation and Dismantle – Freeman
• Manufacturer’s Rep Matching Service
• Meeting/Function Space Reservation 
• Payment Authorization Form – Freeman 
• Press Release Submission – Online
• Rigging Equipment Labor Order – Freeman
• Special Signs and Graphics (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Third-Party Payment – Freeman
• Utilities: Air/Water/Drain Order (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Vehicle Detailing (Advance Rate) – Mobile Command Detail

A complete list of all upcoming deadlines can be found in the Deadline Checklist, located online in the Exhibitor Manual.  

Entered Ideas Alive? New Products and Featured Products Program Offers Maximum Exposure!

Deadline for Advance Rate on Multiple Products: October 5

You must be entered in this program. First entry is free! Additional entries are only $75 per product category if the application is received Friday, October 5. Afterward, additional entries will be $150 per category. Buyers and media hang out in this section because they are looking for the latest and greatest products. Enter your products now.

Exhibitor Badges Mailing Soon

If you have already registered your booth personnel for the SEMA Show, badges will arrive soon. Exhibiting companies will have all their badges mailed together in one package and delivered by UPS to the exhibitor contact during the week of October 8. If you haven’t registered, you must register your booth personnel by October 12 in order to receive badges in advance by UPS. Otherwise, you will have to pick them up onsite in the Registration Hall. If you have any questions on the status of your badge mailing, don’t hesitate to contact Compusystems customer service at 866-229-3687 or e-mail aapexsema@compusystems.com.  

Hanging a Sign Above Your Booth? Make Sure You Follow All the Unique Guidelines

Having a sign hung from the ceiling by Freeman takes special consideration and guidelines as they must be hung before all the freight enters the hall. The Exhibitor Manual includes a five-step process in the right-hand column that you can follow to ensure everything is covered. If you have not yet completed Step 1, don’t worry. They can still be accepted despite being past the deadline. Most important at this time, though, is that order forms must be submitted by next Friday, and your sign must be shipped separately from all your other freight and arrive at Freeman’s office no later than October 19. Use the Shipping Label provided. Questions? Contact Freeman’s rigging department at 702-579-1700.

Are You a U.S. Citizen and Travel Overseas? SEMA Has a New Opportunity to Make Your Traveling Easier

Deadline: October 22

SEMA is partnering with the United States Custom & Border Protection (CBP) to offer onsite interviews for those desiring to join their Global Entry Trusted Traveler Program. Details were posted in last week’s SEMA eNews. You can begin the process by completing the online application. The CBP will contact you after receipt of the application and payment of a $100 processing fee, and schedule a follow-up interview with you in the Show Office at the SEMA Show. For more information, visit www.globalentry.gov.

Discounts at Numerous Restaurants and Shows Throughout Las Vegas for SEMA Exhibitors

Looking for options to entertain staff and customers while in town for the SEMA Show? SEMA has once again collected numerous options for both restaurants and shows where you simply have to show your SEMA badge to receive a discount. 

	Dale Dobies, who has served as exhibit manager for Mr. Gasket/Prestolite Performance for the past 17 years, Has announced his plan to retire on December 31, 2012.

Dale Dobies Mr. Gasket/Prestolite Performance Announces Retirement
Dale Dobies, exhibit manager for Mr. Gasket/Prestolite Performance, announced his plan to retire on December 31, 2012. He has coordinated all trade shows, customer open houses, car shows and racing events for Mr. Gasket/Prestolite Performance the past 17 years. Dobies first started in the trade show business 37 years ago with TRW Automotive Replacement Division in Cleveland, Ohio. Dobies shared that his plans for retirement include getting started on a car in his garage in need of restoration, attending swap meets, going on a quest to find the perfect amber ale, and helping his daughter in her art studio outside of Chicago, Illinois.

Projekt Cars Has Storage Space Available for SEMA Show Vehicles
SEMA member Projekt Cars announced that it is providing storage space for SEMA Showgoers bringing a project vehicle to Vegas for the 2012 SEMA Show. Storage space is available at the company's Rollin' Art facility, 2950 W. Brooks Ave., North Las Vegas, Nevada 89032. For more information, e-mail ProjektCars@hotmail.com or call 915-317-8984. Include the "Storage for (comapany)" in the subject of the e-mail and the vehicle details (year/make/model).

Hella Introduces New Brand Slogan
Automotive parts supplier Hella recently changed its brand message. The new message, "Technology With Vision," has replaced the company's 20-year slogan, "Ideas today for the cars of tomorrow." Hella reports that the new "Technology With Vision" slogan will be gradually introduced worldwide. The company also plans to combine the slogan with the Hella logo in the near future. "The new slogan expresses convincingly and precisely what HELLA has stood for more than 100 years—namely technological expertise, strong innovation, sustainability and orientation towards the future," says Dr. Jürgen Behrend, chairman and president of the company. "This outwardly visible performance promise reflects above all the employees' own self-image. In addition, the double meaning of the word 'vision' illustrates very nicely the roots of the company in the areas of 'light and vision' on the one hand. On the other, the slogan emphasizes the meaning of a forward-looking, responsible corporate strategy for our enterprise."

Lokar Inc. hired Scott Thiel to its product development team, as chief engineer.

Lokar Hires Scott Thiel as Chief Engineer
Lokar Inc. has added chief engineer Scott Thiel to its product development team. Hired in June, Thiel brings to Lokar more than 20 years of experience developing new products and manufacturing processes for the transportation industry. The company reports that he has designed and released products for Warn Industries, Toyota, Nissan, Freightliner, Volvo, Caterpillar and Kenworth. His experience with electro-mechanical devices will help Lokar develop new products that work in conjunction with OEM systems, as well as enhance the comfort and function of today’s high-performance vehicles. Lokar owner Debbie Walls stated, "We are excited to take this step towards our future growth and the new technologies we can develop with his experience." 

Dates Announced for 2013 Auto Glass Week
The 2013 Auto Glass Week and the International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off (IWFC) will be held in Tampa, Florida, at the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina and the Tampa Convention Center, September 18–20, 2013. Organizers of the event stated that the event will include educational seminars, networking events, trade show with industry manufacturers and suppliers, replacement and repair competitions and the Tint-Off competitions. 

Scosche Product Line Now Available at Tint World
Scosche Industries entered into a new consumer technology partnership with Tint World. Tint World locations now offer Scosche's line of consumer tech, car audio and portable electronics. "By integrating Scosche's consumer tech accessories, Tint World will be able to provide their customers with a one-stop shop for all of their needs," said Vince Alves, executive vice president, Scosche Industries. We want to help companies like Tint World stay at the forefront of consumer technology trends, and we're excited to offer our products at more specialty retailers."  

Classic Industries partnered with automotive designer Chip Foose to support the relaunch the automotive restoration TV show "Overhaulin.'"

Classic Industries Partners With Chip Foose, "Overhaulin'"
Classic Industries announced that it has partnered with automotive designer Chip Foose to relaunch the "Overhaulin'" TV series. Classic Industries is a restoration partner for the series, which included the first episode of the season that featured a 1965 Impala. The revived series made its debut on October 1 on Discovery and will be shown on Discovery’s Velocity network for the fall 2012 television season. "Overhaulin’" was a truly important show that pushed automotive restoration to the forefront of TV and put the musclecar hobby in front of a new audience.” said Jeff Leonard, Classic Industries CEO. "We’re proud to work with Chip Foose to bring "Overhaulin'" back to the air." 

	Heidi Matheys will be responsible for leading brand management, strategy, marketing and research for the Valvoline brand of products through her new position as vice president of global brands for Ashland Consumer Markets, a commercial unit Ashland Inc.

Heidi Matheys to Lead Brand Management for Valvoline Products
Heidi Matheys has joined Ashland Consumer Markets, a commercial unit of Ashland Inc., as vice president of global brands. Matheys will be responsible for leading brand management, strategy, marketing and consumer research for the Valvoline brand of products. She reports to Sam Mitchell, senior vice president and president of Ashland Consumer Markets. "We're thrilled to have Heidi join our Valvoline team," stated Mitchell. "I am confident that Heidi's global brand management expertise and leadership skills will have a positive impact on our DIY business, the Valvoline brand and overall product portfolio mix."

Brian Fenner Wins Windshield Repair Olympics
Delta Kits reported that longtime company advocate Brian Fenner of Safe Glass Technologies took home the gold medal in the 2012 Walt Gorman Memorial Windshield Repair Olympics. As a previous 2008 and 2009 gold medal winner, Fenner went against 10 of the world's best repair technicians using Delta Kit products. Fenner's 1st place victory earned him a trophy, gold medal and check for $10,000. 

Identifix Inc. Names Gunderson New VP of Business Development
Identifix Inc. has named Richard J. Gunderson as its new vice president of business development. He will be responsible for the implementation of the company's long-term strategic business plan, including expansion into new markets overseas and in the United States, product development and extending sales channels. Identifix reports that Gunderson brings a wealth of expertise to his new position, including his abilities to form strategic alliances, develop and implement new programs and to support market expansion. His most recent position was vice president and general manager at Autodata Publications.

	Stop by the DUB Live area at the 2012 SEMA Show to see the vehicles featured in the BUILT From eBay campaign.

The vehicles that are part of Source Interlink Media and eBay Motors' BUILT campaign will be featured in the DUB Live Area at the 2012 SEMA Show. The four garage teams will unveil the vehicles to the SEMA audience on Tuesday, October 30, starting at 3:00 p.m. and will be on-hand to talk about the vehicles. Showgoers are encouraged to stop by and pick up an autographed poster of the vehicles.

BUILT From eBay featured four garages building four distinctly different vehicles that were purchased through eBay and then customized using parts—vintage and new alike—that were also acquired through eBay.

Attendees can stop by the BUILT exhibit throughout the four-day Show, take a picture with one of the vehicles and upload it to Twitter using the hashtag #BuiltfromeBay to enter a daily prize drawing. In addition to the prize drawing, visitors can also check out the MyVehicles profile for each BUILT vehicle and learn how to create profiles of their own, view footage from the BUILT Series, and vote for their favorite aftermarket accessories.

The DUB Live area is located in the front of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

	During the Middle East Business Development Conference, participants will have the opportunity to meet first-hand with resellers from throughout the region.

Consumers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and surrounding countries are eager for U.S.-branded products. Come to the Middle East, March 13–16, 2013, and meet first-hand with resellers from throughout the region, tour the Middle East Motor Tuning Show (MEMTS) and visit top retailers. SEMA events will be located in a dedicated hall, entry by special registration only.

For more information, visit www.sema.org/middleeast or contact lindas@sema.org.

	This ’63 Citroën 2CV from France will be on display beside the Car Crazy TV stage at the 2012 SEMA Show.

Coming off of the success of last year’s "Car Crazy" International Vehicle Showcase, Meguiar’s will once again advocate pride among car enthusiasts by displaying nine show cars from around the world at the 2012 SEMA Show, October 30–November 2, in Las Vegas.

Meguiar’s, producer of "Car Crazy TV" and Meguiar’s Car Wax, has been actively building and supporting the car hobby all over the world for more than 40 years. Out of thousands of car shows held in more than 90 countries, nine show cars from nine different countries were chosen as winners by the citizens of their respective regions to represent the car hobby from that area. Each owner accepted the invitation by Meguiar’s to bring their vehicle and share their passion with the global car fraternity that gathers every year at the SEMA Show.

These cars will be transported from across the globe by Schumacher Cargo and Logistics, and will be on display outside the convention hall beside the SEMA "Car Crazy TV" stage. Throughout the four days of the Show, the owners will be a major attraction along with their cars, providing insight into the car hobby in their respective countries.  

The cars to be featured and on display include:

• ’56 Chevrolet 3100 pickup (Canada)
• ’12 Changhe Suzuki Landy (China)
• ’65 Chevrolet Corvette (Colombia)
• ’63 Citroën 2CV (France)
• ’08 Opel Corsa D OPC 1.6 Turbo (Germany)
• ’00 Lexus LS 430 (Korea)
• ’64 Ford Coupe Club (Mexico)
• ’55 Chevrolet Bel Air Coupe (Sweden)
• ’08 Range Rover Sport HSE (Trinidad and Tobago)

The "Car Crazy" International Showcase helps build bridges between car enthusiasts from vastly different places and cultures. “We are so thankful to SEMA for providing this platform that allows everyone at SEMA to have direct contact with passionate car guys and extraordinary cars from around the world,” said Meguiar’s President Barry Meguiar.

Before making their way to the SEMA Show, the cars will stop at the Marconi Automotive Museum in Tustin, California, and be showcased for a limited time to museum visitors during the month of October, including a special open house event Saturday, October 20. Visit www.marconimuseum.org for more information.

	The Vehicle Technology Center will showcase SEMA’s latest solutions and leading educational seminars as well as vehicle technology simulations and demonstrations to help present the benefits of SEMA vehicle technology programs and partners.

SEMA continually works to develop vehicle technology solutions and build relationships that foster collaboration between automakers, original-equipment suppliers, dealers, research organizations, industry associations and member companies. The revamped SEMA Vehicle Technology Center (VTC) at the SEMA Show is an important extension of that effort, providing members with in-depth information and hands-on understanding from leading industry experts about advanced vehicle technologies and emerging systems.

The VTC will showcase SEMA’s latest solutions and leading educational seminars as well as vehicle technology simulations and demonstrations to help present the benefits of SEMA vehicle technology programs and partners. View the educational forums and panel sessions related to the Vehicle Technology Center.

SEMA Vice President of Vehicle Technology John Waraniak was recently interviewed by Susan Kuchinskas of Telematics Update. Waraniak weighed in on the current state of vehicle apps, the challenges companies face as a result of connected-car technology and the major trends that are currently impacting the automotive aftermarket industry.

Read the complete article, "Q&A: Telematics, Apps and Making Connectivity Cool."

	Hedges & Co. is posting new trends, facts and statistics about the automotive specialty-parts industry each day in its "66 Trends in 66 Days" blog series.

Hedges & Co.—a SEMA-member market research and database marketing firm—reports consumer confidence and the SEMA Consumer Demand Index (CDI) both rebounded in September. An analysis is posted on the Hedges & Co. website as part of its "66 Trends in 66 Days" series, leading up to the opening of the 2012 SEMA Show, October 30.

The SEMA CDI jumped to 45 for September, the highest level since October 2010 when it hit 57. Consumer confidence also posted a gain with a nine-point jump from August, marking its highest level since February.

The SEMA CDI is a measure of purchase intentions for automotive consumers over the next three months and tracks closely with consumer confidence. Hedges & Co. tracks CDI with consumer confidence because it creates a unique combination of intent to buy and how consumers feel about the economy.

Hedges & Co. is posting new trends, facts and statistics about the automotive specialty-parts industry each day in its "66 Trends in 66 Days" blog series. Visitors will learn about new consumer behavior, the future of the industry and much more. Recent posts have included vehicle owner demographics, mobile shopping trends, social media strategies and brand recognition pulled from Hedges & Co.'s proprietary BuyerZoom and BrandZoom market research reports.

Members of the automotive aftermarket are also invited to join the discussion by posting their own thoughts on the Hedges & Co. site. They can also join the discussion on Twitter by following @HedgesCompany or by searching for the hashtag #66trends.

Premium locations are still available at the 2012 SEMA Show.

There is still time to enhance your presence at the upcoming SEMA Show. Select from remaining aisle signs, billboards, banners and carpet ads. Premium locations are still available. More than half of all registered SEMA Show exhibitors utilize sponsorship packages to promote their booths. SEMA has packages starting at only $299.

For more information, contact Joe Sebergandio, at Motor Media Inc., at 818-248-4900 or joe@motormediainc.com. Final deadline for materials is October 19.

Earlier this year, Brenda Priddy & Co. reported that there were photos of a suspected G37 “mule” testing in Europe. Now, the group has these shots of an actual prototype.

Clad with an obnoxious black and white appliqué, there is still no mistaking this for the next G37—however, the team joked that support vehicles clearly marked with "Nissan Technical Center North America" sure helped narrow down the possibilities.

In addition to the sedan, Priddy and her group of shooters are expecting coupe and convertible versions as well. As for fuel, Priddy anticipates diesel and hybrid offerings.

The on-sale date for the updated G37 will be sometime in the third quarter of 2013, and sales will be throughout the United States, Europe and Asia.

Photo: Brenda Priddy & Co.

	New files for several of today's most popular vehicles have recently been added to the SEMA Technology Transfer program, including CAD data for the 2013 Jeep Wrangler.

The SEMA Technology Transfer program has recently received a series of new CAD files, including new files for the ’13 Jeep Wrangler. The program was developed with the intent of minimizing or eliminating the necessity of reverse engineering for manufacturing members to produce products.

The inclusion of the files reaffirms the commitment of Chrysler to SEMA manufacturing members and represents the first time in two years that new Jeep files have been made available. CAD files available currently for the Wrangler focus on chassis, suspension, exterior body, and the instrument panel/gauge cluster.

To access these files, manufacturers are encouraged to visit www.sema.org/tech-transfer. Or, manufacturers that would like access to additional files not mentioned above are also invited to visit www.sema.org/tech-transfer as well and make a request. More Chrysler models will become available in the next few weeks, including files for the all-new ’13 Ram 1500 truck.

In addition to the reemergence of Chrysler CAD file contributions, Tech Transfer has received additional files from its other existing OEM partners. The new files available are:

2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06

• Piston Assembly

2007 Chevrolet Silverado HD 250

• Air Cleaner Duct Assembly - 6.6L

2011 Chevrolet Corvette

• Intake Manifold - Fuel Feed Hose Assembly - LS3

2011 Ford Super Duty

• 6 ft. Box Floor With Bolt and Attachment Positions

2011 Ford Mustang

• Upper/Lower Radiator Hoses, Oil Pump and Pick Up Tube

2011 Ford F-150

• Front-end Clip From Center and Forward W/O Suspension (Ecoboost)
• 3.7L Radiator (Ecoboost)
• 3.7L Engine (Ecoboost)

2012 Cadillac CTS-V

• Front and Rear Brake Corners Assembly

2012 Scion FR-S

• Engine Assembly - 2.0L
• Front & Rear Suspension
• Front & Rear Brake Assemblies 
• Exterior Body Panels 
• Transmission & Differential

2013 Ford Fusion

• Center Stack Trim Panel

2013 Cadillac XTS

• Interior Door Panel Assembly
• Exterior Door Panel Assembly 
• Headlamp Assembly  

For more information on the SEMA Technology Transfer program, visit www.SEMA.org/tech-transfer or send an e-mail to tech transfer@sema.org.

	This weekend in Reading, Pennsylvania, Courtney Force will sport a pink Traxxas Funny Car Ford Mustang to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness month and to raise support for breast cancer prevention and research.

Courtney Force and Traxxas to Run Pink Breast Cancer Awareness Car at Reading
As the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing season winds down John Force Racing driver Courtney Force takes advantage of the month of October and the Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway to show her support for those who have been affected by breast cancer.

This weekend in Reading, Pennsylvania, Force will sport a pink Traxxas Funny Car Ford Mustang to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness month and to raise support for breast cancer prevention and research.

The Action Racing Collectables die-cast of Force's Traxxas Pink Ford Mustang Funny Car is now available to order on www.lionelracing.com. A portion of the proceeds from each die-cast sold will benefit breast cancer awareness, research and prevention.

SCCA Hall of Fame Nominees for 2013 Class Accepted Through October 15
The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) continues to take nominations for the 2013 SCCA Hall of Fame class through October 15, honoring those who have made a significant impact on the Club.

The SCCA National Hall of Fame was created in 2004 to preserve, protect and record the history and accomplishments of the Club by acknowledging those members who’ve made a significant impact on the development of the SCCA, be it through service to the national organization, achievements in national competition or bringing national recognition to SCCA.

Individuals may submit candidates for the Hall of Fame by e-mail at SCCAHoF@scca.com, fax 785-232-7228 or mail to SCCA Hall of Fame Committee, P.O. Box 19400, Topeka, KS 66619.

Each year, the SCCA Hall of Fame Nominating Committee accepts nominations from the membership. Nominations should be kept to two pages or less, and indicate the background and reasons for consideration. After reviewing the potential candidates, 15 official nominees will be submitted to the SCCA Hall of Fame Selection Committee. The Selection Committee will then conduct additional research on the 15 nominees before choosing the final five inductees, who will be formally announced in December.

The 2013 Hall of Fame class will be formally inducted during the SCCA National Convention at the South Point Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, held February 28–March 2, 2013.

	The Q2 2012 SEMA Market Update report, along with all SEMA market research, is available for download at www.sema.org/research.

According to the SEMA Market Update, Q2 2012 continued to provide mixed messages on the economic recovery, though the U.S. economy is still forecast to grow over the next few years. Disposable income continues to rise, which helps offset changes in gas prices. Instability in the job market and overseas economies, along with the impending election, has created additional uncertainty with the U.S. recovery. On the plus side, automotive indicators continue to show strong growth, with another boost in new-vehicle sales in Q2.

The SEMA Market Update is a regularly published report that tracks industry and economic trends affecting the $30 billion specialty-equipment industry. Each update tracks a regular set of trends and contains a "Current Topics" section that provides SEMA members with new research or information sources to better understand changes in the industry.



The latest edition of Current Topics highlights SEMA’s Industry Needs survey, which looks at issues facing the specialty-equipment market.

The Q2 2012 SEMA Market Update report, along with all SEMA market research, is available for download at www.sema.org/research.

The build.

Best in Show will be auctioned live during the HRIA Reception.

Jesse Greening of Greening Auto Co. was awarded the coveted “Best in Show” designation from the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) for the 2012 HRIA Builder’s Challenge and Pinewood races. Fifteen well-known builders created one-of-a-kind miniature hot rods in the style of pinewood derby cars. The cars were raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races in Pomona, California. These cars will be on display at the annual SEMA Show and then 12 will be placed on eBay for auction from October 30–November 8, and three will be auctioned live. All proceeds from the auction will go to support SEMA Cares and its two children’s charities—Childhelp and Victory Junction.

Greening’s custom build will be one of the three auctioned live during the HRIA Industry Reception, Wednesday, October 31, 2012, at the Las Vegas Hotel in Ballrooms A and B. Joining Greening for the live auction will be Mike Cooper of Spanky’s Hot Rod & Customs, who received “Best Engineered” honors, and three-time race winner Derek White of Street Vizions. The live auction will immediately precede the Awards Presentation, emceed by the voice of the NHRA and SEMA, Dave McClelland. The night will honor the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association’s Trendsetter, the National Street Rod Association’s Achievement Award, the International Car Show Association’s Legends of Hot Rod Award, as well as the prestigious Industry Recognition of an Individual, Business of the Year and Hall of Fame honors from SEMA’s hot-rod council—HRIA.

Be sure and join HRIA for this special evening that will honor the hot-rodding industry and help support a great cause by participating in the live auction. RSVP today!

Contact Zane Clark for more details at 909-978-6696.

	Refer to the SEMA Show's Deadline Checklist so you don't miss out on important dates.

Many SEMA Show deadlines are tomorrow, October 12, so continuously review the Deadline Checklist to ensure you're taking advantage of the advance rate as much as possible. Many relate to Freeman services. The hyperlinks below take you directly to a pdf that you can print on your computer. Ordering services online can be made through Freeman.

• After-Hours Events
• Carpet and Cleaning Order (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Electrical Order (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Exhibit Accessories (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Exhibitor-Appointed Contractor (EAC) Application
• Exhibitor Booth Insurance (if purchased from John Buttine)
• Exhibit Furnishings (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Exhibitor Product Training Sessions
• Exhibitor Registration Due – Domestic (To Receive Badges in Mail)
• Hanging Truss, Chain Hoist, Lighting and Stagehand Labor (Advance Rate) - Freeman
• Labor, Installation and Dismantle – Freeman
• Manufacturer’s Rep Matching Service
• Meeting/Function Space Reservation 
• Payment Authorization Form – Freeman 
• Press Release Submission – Online
• Rigging Equipment Labor Order – Freeman
• Special Signs and Graphics (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Third-Party Payment – Freeman
• Utilities: Air/Water/Drain Order (Advance Rate) – Freeman
• Vehicle Detailing (Advance Rate) – Mobile Command Detail

A complete list of all upcoming deadlines can be found in the Deadline Checklist, located online in the Exhibitor Manual. 

Parking at the SEMA Show—Plan Ahead

The SEMA Show is going to be bigger than ever, with activities and displays taking over much of the parking lots on and around the Las Vegas Convention Center. One particular parking lot, the Gold Lot, will be closed for all parking beginning the week prior to the SEMA Show until Wednesday of the Show due to the Global RallyCross taking place the evening of October 30. Therefore, it is important you plan ahead if you intend to park or stage a vehicle or truck at the SEMA Show. SEMA will continue to offer complimentary shuttle service to more than 30 partner hotels. SEMA and the Las Vegas Convention Center has also secured an additional parking lot nearby for overflow parking, just north on Paradise Road across the street from the Las Vegas Hotel. Complimentary shuttle service also will be provided from that parking lot. Meanwhile, the monorail is a great option for commuting to the Las Vegas Convention Center. More information on the monorail, including a link to discount ticket options, is located below.

Save Time—Take the Monorail to the SEMA Show

Looking for an alternative form of transportation to get to the SEMA Show while in Las Vegas? The Las Vegas Monorail avoids the traffic of the city streets and drops you right off at the front door of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Stops along the Strip include the MGM Grand, Paris/Ballys, Flamingo, Imperial Palace, Harrah’s and extend all the way to Las Vegas Hilton. SEMA has partnered once again with the Las Vegas Monorail to provide discounted fares on multi-day passes if you purchase the tickets in advance.

Bringing a Vehicle to Display at the Show? Understand the Process and Differences for Booth Vehicles and Feature Vehicles Before You Arrive

Vehicles are all around the SEMA Show, and it is oftentimes confusing to understand the differences between booth vehicles and feature vehicles, and when they can be placed. Booth vehicles are those that are located inside an exhibitor’s actual booth. These can be displayed whenever an exhibitor is ready to place it in their booth. There is no specific date or time the vehicle can enter the exhibit hall; it can simply go directly to the nearest freight door and Freeman will help escort the vehicle to the booth at no charge. Feature vehicles are those vehicles sponsored by exhibitors that are placed in and around the convention center property, yet not in an exhibitor’s booth. Placement of feature vehicles is determined according to confirmations previously sent to the exhibitors when applications were submitted for feature vehicles. Most vehicles will be placed Sunday, October 28, from one check-in location in the Green Lot. Each confirmation has a check-in time, and all vehicles must proceed directly to the Green Lot entrance off of Desert Inn Road, just east of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Any questions, e-mail featurevehicle@convexx.com.

Know When Your Freight Should Arrive at the SEMA Show

Deadline to Receive Freight at the Advance Warehouse: October 19

The tremendous size of the SEMA Show necessitates a scheduled freight move-in plan that ensures an orderly and efficient set-up. Every exhibitor has the ability to ship their freight in advance to the SEMA Show. The deadline for the freight to arrive in advance is October 19. After that date, freight must arrive at the Las Vegas Convention Center directly according to a specific schedule. Each exhibitor is assigned a target time, which is the time for your freight to arrive at the SEMA Show. You can find all target times in the bottom left corner of the Exhibitor Manual page on www.SEMAShow.com. Answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding freight delivery and when/how your freight should come to the Las Vegas Convention Center is available on the informational sheet, which is the last link located on the left column of the Exhibitor Manual. If the time assigned does not work for you, don’t hesitate to contact Ron Pickens at Freeman by e-mail at ron.pickens@freemanco.com. He will use his best efforts to accommodate your requests. 

Customizing a vehicle can often be broken down into a series of tasks that can then be scheduled and executed—at least until the clock runs out. Then all bets are off. And so it goes for the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge teams with time to complete their ambitious builds coming to a close in about two weeks, just before voting begins on October 20. And just like a race car, these one-off rides must be ready to go when the green flag drops.

Kyle Busch's "Rowdy Edition" Camry is "getting close." Busch's team at Detroit Speed has extensively reworked the Camry's body with strong fender flares, a NASCAR-style splitter and front and rear belly pans to direct airflow under the car. All of these parts have been custom designed and fabricated by hand. More recently, the team has been scrambling to finish custom interior touches with completely redone seats and a custom electronic entertainment package.

Getting a complex collection of custom-built electronics to work seamlessly in his "Tekked-Out Prius" seems to be keeping Clint Bowyer's RKM Performance Center team awake into the wee hours. It's loaded with high-tech gadgets, such as side-view cameras that replace the mirrors, 45 ft. of fiber optic interior lighting and a 16-speaker stereo with six crossovers and dual amplifiers. Then there's the suspension, which has dropped the Prius "lower than a Sprint Cup car." Their build will sport no less than 364 copies of the Toyota logo.

Alexis DeJoria's Pre-Runner Tundra concept has her Racer Engineering team working on virtually every aspect of the truck. Long-travel suspension (20 in. in the rear), an elaborate custom roll cage wrapped in leather and a TRD-supercharged engine are all part of her design to make a serious off-road tool. The team is also squeezing in a JBL audio system and a specially built fuel cell. It’s all more than enough to keep them busy right up to the due date.

Some builds are more ambitious than others, and Antron Brown's “DragQuoia” is a big concept that's challenging its capable builders. The "family dragster" idea means that whatever they do has to leave room for the family to ride safely and comfortably. And they're doing quite a lot. For starters, the Motorsports Technical Center team is lopping more than 2,000 lbs. off the factory curb weight. A TRD blower and nitrous coax the 5.7L V8 to pump out more than 650 hp for those "quick" runs to the supermarket. Massive 21.5-in.-wide rear tires put the power to the ground, which in turn need big fender mods—inside and out—to keep the hot rubber bits contained in the wheel wells. Brown will be secured with his own five-point racing harness. And between runs, he can watch his favorite DVD on the seat-back media player.

Every one of the Dream Build vehicle teams has the chops and experience to deliver for their driver. The simple question on delivery day may come down to which team will be the least sleep deprived.

All four of the Toyota Racing Dream Build Challenge vehicles will be unveiled at the Toyota display during the company's press conference October 30 at the 2012 SEMA Show. Fans can vote for their favorite team beginning October 20, and may vote once per day through October 29.

For more information, go to the home page at www.ToyotaRacingDreamBuild.com.

SEMA Show exhibitors and attendees can utilize UPS My Choice to control and manage their package deliveries.

Automotive parts and accessories are increasingly being sold online. And, shoppers not only want to know when they will receive a package, but also use technology to stay on top of their delivery.

UPS has a service that can ease your mind and give you a new level of flexibility and control over your home deliveries. UPS My Choice enables busy consumers to control and manage their incoming package deliveries to fit their busy lifestyles. Members will receive phone, e-mail or text alerts notifying them a day in advance of when packages will arrive and provide a four-hour window for the delivery. No more missed package deliveries.

Members also have the option to electronically authorize release of packages that require a signature and, for a $5 transaction fee, reroute a package to another delivery address or have it delivered to the nearest The UPS Store location.

More than 1.8 million consumers have signed up for UPS My Choice and more than 20 million packages have been delivered to UPS My Choice members. Sign up today, and take control of your package deliveries!

UPS is the Preferred Carrier for the 2012 SEMA Show and the official logistics provider to SEMA members. Headquartered in Atlanta, UPS serves more than 220 countries and territories worldwide.

NEWS NUGGETS

NEFF, ALBALOOSHI, GAINES SCORE IN READING; PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE FINAL TO RUN IN LAS VEGAS: Funny Car racer Mike Neff kept his championship hopes alive by racing to victory Monday at the rain-delayed Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway. Khalid alBalooshi (Top Fuel) and V. Gaines (Pro Stock) also were winners at the fourth of six playoff events in the NHRA Full Throttle Countdown to the Championship. Neff defeated veteran driver Johnny Gray with a time of 4.030 seconds at 317.94 mph in his Castrol GTX Ford Mustang to earn his fourth win of the season and his first of the year in the playoffs. With the win, Neff closed in on new series leader Jack Beckman, who set a national record and advanced to the semifinals over the weekend in his Schumacher Electric Dodge Charger. Neff trails Beckman by 54 points, and Ron Capps is in second place, 23 back of Beckman with only two races remaining in the season.

“You have to have it all right to get a win any more,” said Neff, who defeated Tony Pedregon, Jim Head, and John Force to advance to the final. “The biggest thing is it will be exciting. I want to be able to head out west with a chance. It would be a downer if we were out of it at this point. It is nice to be alive for the championship.”

For more on this story, please visit www.nhra.com.

EIGHT ROOKIES ARE ELIGIBLE CANDIDATES FOR 2012 AUTO CLUB ROAD TO THE FUTURE AWARD: Eight NHRA rookie drivers, representative of all four NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series categories, are the eligible candidates for the 2012 Automobile Club of Southern California Road to the Future Award, it was announced today by officials from the NHRA and the Automobile Club of Southern California. The award, which recognizes the top rookie competitor in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and offers a $20,000 prize and traditional trophy to the winner, will be presented during the NHRA’s annual championship awards ceremony Monday, November 12, at the Hollywood and Highland Center in Los Angeles. More than 150 of the nation’s leading auto racing journalists will select the winner through a voting system based on the following criteria: number of events participated, performance on and off the racetrack, participation in NHRA promotions and relationships with fans, sponsors and media. The candidates for the award are, in alphabetical order: Khalid alBalooshi (Top Fuel), Blake Alexander (Funny Car), Alexis DeJoria (Funny Car), Courtney Force (Funny Car), John Hall (Pro Stock Motorcycle), Todd Lesenko (Funny Car), Chris McGaha (Pro Stock) and Scotty Pollacheck (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

“For more than 100 years, the Automobile Club of Southern California has represented integrity, commitment and professionalism to our millions of members. The Road to the Future Award has come to symbolize these same attributes in the sport of NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing,” said Robert T. Bouttier, president and CEO of the Automobile Club of Southern California. “To be nominated recognizes not only that a rookie driver had a noteworthy first season, but also that they demonstrated exceptional potential for the future. We congratulate all eight of the nominees for this year’s award and look forward to enjoying their achievements both on and off the racetrack for many years to come.”

Visit www.nhra.com for more on this story. 


FREY TO RETIRE AT SEASON’S END: Bob Frey, the long-time announcer and voice of the NHRA, will retire from announcing at the end of the year. “I’ve been doing this since 1966 and traveling extensively, and it’s time to settle down,” Frey said. “There are a lot of things at home I would like to do and take care of. I have six grandsons, and I would like to see them grow up, play ball and be a bigger part of their lives. Plus, after all these years on the road, I’d like to share some time with my wife. In fact, I think next year I’d like to travel and see the world.”

He quickly added that he was only kidding about that last part. “If I never see another airport-security line in my life, I’ll be happy.”

Frey started announcing at Atco Dragway in 1966 and has been a part of the sport ever since. “I’ve been doing this since before Funny Cars or Pro Stocks were even classes,” he said. “I’ve been blessed to meet most of the stars of the sport and to be able to call them friends. It’s been a great ride, but it’s time to move on.”

He went on to say that he intends to stay involved in the sport but in a very limited and selective way. “I plan on doing the Don Garlits Hall of Fame inductions in March and the DRAW auction in October, along with other selected events but not in an announcing capacity. Plus, I hope to be able to continue to write my weekly columns for DragRaceCentral.com. That’s something I really enjoy, plus that’s something I can do from home, and that’s a real bonus. And I hope to continue to provide my stats to the folks at ESPN so they can use them on their shows.”

When asked about some of his most memorable moments, Frey said that it would be tough to pick out any single one. “There has been so much that I have seen, from twin-engine dragsters to today’s fuel cars and everything in between. I love a good Competition Eliminator race as much as a Top Fuel one, so I really can’t single out any particular moment. I’ve enjoyed every aspect of my career, but I’m looking forward to slowing down.”

Frey will finish out the season with the races in Las Vegas and Pomona and then begin his retirement. “I’d like to thank everyone who has been so kind to me over the years, especially everyone at NHRA. It’s been a dream job, and I will miss it.”


COMING ATTRACTIONS

BIG O TIRES NHRA NATIONALS, The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, October 26–28: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its 22nd stop of 23 events in the 2012 season, and the fifth race of the Countdown to the Championship—the NHRA’s playoffs. Drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points towards the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. The 2011 winners of the event were Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Eddie Krawiec (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-644-4444 or log on to LVMS.com.


AUTO CLUB OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NHRA FINALS, Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, November 8–11: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its final stop of the 2012 season. Drivers in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will earn points towards the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world championships. One driver from each category will walk away a champion at the end of the day. The 2011 winners of the event were Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Greg Stanfield (Pro Stock) and Andrew Hines (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

ROOKIE ALBALOOSHI DEFEATED THE BEST IN TOP FUEL EN ROUTE TO FIRST VICTORY: Al-Anabi Racing’s Khalid alBalooshi outran series points leader Antron Brown to earn his first career victory Monday at the rain-delayed Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway in Pennsylvania. alBalooshi, who is not in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs, became only the third driver from outside North America to win a Full Throttle Series race joining Australian David Grubnic and Kenji Okazaki from Japan.

“I give my team owner, the crew guys and all the people who work with us thanks for making this win,” he said. “I try my best, and I know that everybody on the team is trying their best, and finally, I won my first race.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

5: NUMBER OF NATIONAL RECORDS RESET DURING READING EVENT: Weather conditions played a key role in the record-setting event that was the 28th annual Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals held at Maple Grove Raceway near Reading, Pennsylvania. Four different drivers set five national records throughout the weekend. Matco Tools driver Antron Brown set the Top Fuel national record for elapsed time at 3.701 seconds. Jack Beckman, driver of the Schumacher Electric Dodge Charger in Funny Car, set the E.T. record at 3.986 seconds and the national speed record at 320.58 mph. In Pro Stock competition, Jason Line reset the national speed record at 214.35 mph behind the wheel of his Summit Racing Chevy Camaro. Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Andrew Hines set the national elapsed time record at 6.728 seconds on his Screamin’ Eagle Vance & Hines Harley-Davidson.

DID YOU KNOW…

FRANK MANZO EARNS 100TH CAREER NHRA NATIONAL EVENT VICTORY: Top Alcohol Funny Car driver Frank Manzo became the second driver in NHRA history to reach the 100-win milestone when he picked up the victory at the Auto-Plus NHRA Nationals at Maple Grove Raceway in Reading. All-time win leader John Force became the first driver to 100 wins when he scored in Houston April 14, 2002, and the 100-win club finally has a second member in Manzo. Manzo has a combined 217 wins when his 117 wins at NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series events are added to his 100 national event wins. He also has 21 Northeast Division titles. In the process of driving his Al-Anabi Racing Monte Carlo to his 100th win, Manzo clinched the 16th championship of his illustrious career, breaking his tie with 15-time Funny Car champion Force for most championships in NHRA history. It is his seventh consecutive title and 14th in the last 16 seasons.

“As a young kid when I started racing Alcohol Funny Car, I dreamed about winning one or two national events, beating Dale Armstrong and Ken Veney and all the big guys,” recalled Manzo. “I never really thought about winning the championship. I just thought about winning a race. I would have never dreamed about 100 wins.”

For more about this story, visit www.nhra.com.

Addressing the threat of counterfeit product remains a SEMA high priority. In response, the Association and its Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) and Street Performance Council (SPC) are sponsoring an anti-counterfeiting seminar at the SEMA Show and making an FBI special agent available for one-on-one member meetings. 

Latest Tools, Tips and Tricks to Counter Counterfeits and Knock-Offs

Las Vegas Convention Center: Room N253 
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. 

Presenters:      

• Kenya Merritt, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• Merritt Blakeslee, The Blakeslee Law Firm 
• Steve Lustig, Dickinson Wright 
• Robb Roby, Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear 
• Stuart Gosswein, SEMA (moderator)

Sponsored by HRIA, MPMC and SPC.

Presented by representatives from federal enforcement agencies and seasoned intellectual property attorneys, this informative seminar will tackle real-world counterfeit problems impacting SEMA-member companies and provide tips on how to avoid and combat the threat. Expert panelists will cover a wide range of topics, including: protecting intellectual property marketed at trade shows and sold on the Internet; understanding the difference between counterfeit product, unlawful knock-offs and legal imitations; training staff or hiring private investigators to identify fake merchandise; and working with Customs, FBI and other government agencies to seize pirated products and prevent illegal knock-offs.  

The SEMA Government Affairs office has also arranged for FBI Special Agent Kenya Merritt to participate in the seminar and be available during the Show for one-on-one meetings with SEMA members to talk privately about company-specific issues. Merritt leads the FBI department that is addressing anti-counterfeiting activities within the auto industry. 

To schedule a meeting, contact Stuart Gosswein in SEMA’s Washington Office at 202-783-6007, ext. 30 or stuartg@sema.org.

	Several Las Vegas establishments are offering Showgoers various food, beverage and entertainment discounts during the week of the SEMA Show.

Members of the specialty-equipment industry converging on the Las Vegas Convention Center for the SEMA Show, October 30–November 2, may want to take advantage of the many food, beverage and entrainment discounts offered at several Las Vegas establishments.

For attendee registration, booth sales and more information on the 2012 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Surf The Musical
"Surf the Musical" features the songs of the Beach Boys and takes center stage at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Tony Award-nominated Rock of Ages director Kristin Hanggi and an all-star Broadway team present a musical extravaganza featuring electrifying choreography and introducing Surf Vision technology. "Surf the Musical" will take you on a magical and nostalgic trip back to the '60s, where all roads lead to the coast and sounds of surf in the warm California sun.
Use the code CONVSURF when ordering and save $40 off front orchestra seats.
Call: 702-785-5395   

Peepshow
"Peepshow" at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas' hottest show and stripteases spectacular. Starring blonde bombshell Holly Madison of "Holly's World" and "The Girls Next Door," the highly stylized, intricately choreographed "Peepshow" combines sexy striptease with celebrity with high-level production values in a show ABC's "Nightline" called "The hottest new show in Las Vegas." Critics have hailed it as "Spectacular!" and "The sexiest show on the planet!"  
Use the code CON40 when ordering and save $20 off regular reserved seats.
Call: 702-785-5395 - Website: www.peepshowconventionoffers.com

Absinthe
"Absinthe" has been hailed as "the most inventive and daring show to open on the strip in years!" (Las Vegas Sun). Voted the "Best New Show" on the Strip (Las Vegas Weekly), "Absinthe" features outrageous comedy and a cast of wild and outlandish acts performing amazing feats of virtuosity within mere feet of the audience. As the Huffington Post declares, "It happens five feet away from you, and it's awesome."
Use code CON20 when ordering and save $20 off regular reserved seats.
Call: 702-785-5395 - www.absintheconventionoffers.com

Jersey Boys
"Jersey Boys" at Paris is the #1 rated show in Las Vegas! This super-hit blockbuster takes you up the charts, across the country and behind the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Discover the secrets of a 40-year friendship: four blue-collar kids working their way from the streets of Newark to the heights of stardom.
Use code 40DISC when ordering and $40 off front orchestra seats.
Call: 702-777-7776 or 888-746-7784 - www.jerseyboysconventionoffers.com

Gallery Nightclub at Planet Hollywood November 1

• Special VIP section reserved for SEMA attendees or vendors
• Free Entry (must show valid show badge with corresponding name)
• All guests must be 21 or older with valid picture ID for nightclub
• All guests must adhere to nightclub rules and regulations including dress code

Venues are also available for private and semi-private events, as well as table reservations. Contact group sales at heather@block16lv.com for more details.

Flamingo - Carlos & Charlie’s

• 2 for 1 Margaritas. Flavors Charlie’s Mango and Passion Fruit

Harrah's - Toby Keith's (12:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m., October 30–November 2)

• $4 Miller Light, Coors Light bottles
• $6 Jack Daniels Black Label

Paris and Planet Hollywood - Mandara Spa
Specials can be used towards fitness center access and all a la carte spa and salon services and cannot be combined with any other offer or discount.

• 20% Off Sunday – Thursday
• 15% Off Friday and Saturday
• $15 Daily Fitness Passes ($10 discount)

Paris Chateau

• Complimentary entrance to Chateau Nightclub up to midnight on October 30, November 1 and 2.

Imperial Palace

• Auto Collections at Imperial Palace-complimentary entrance (October 28–November 2)

Retail Discounts
Note: Show your convention registration badge for these exclusive discount offerings at the beginning of the POS transaction. Discounts apply before tax.

20% off Caesars Palace Las Vegas Retail Shops listed:

• Caesars Exclusively – Located in the Augustus Tower
• Emperors Essentials – Located in Appian Way
• Caesars Exclusively  – Located in Forum Shop at Caesars
• Qua Spa Boutique – Located in Qua Spa 2nd floor Augustus   Tower

20% off Harrah’s Las Vegas Shops listed:

• Jackpot Gift Shop – Located in main lobby
• KGB Exchange – Located across KGB Gourmet Burger Restaurant

20% off Imperial Palace Las Vegas Shops listed:

• Bijoux Terner Gift Shop – Located in North Tour Lobby pass gift shops
• Auto Collection Retail Shop – 5th floor Guest Parking structure
• Whiskey Run Gift Shop – Gift shop area just past main elevators

Participating Retail Offer Disclaimers
Not combined with other discounts/offers; not combined with any Total Reward Tier Loyalty Card discount privileges; not eligible on tobacco and electronic products; not eligible entertainer merchandise; shipping fees not eligible for discounts; limit one discount offer per visit/transaction; excludes admission for Auto Collection.

With less than four weeks to go before Election Day, time is running out to secure your absentee ballot. Although Election Day falls the week after this year’s SEMA Show, make sure to obtain an absentee ballot if you will be unable to vote in person, Tuesday, November 6.

SEMA has compiled a complete list of absentee ballot application forms and helpful voter information for all 50 states. Find your state and information needed to receive your ballot today!

This year’s election is the most important in recent memory. The current political landscape holds an uncertain future for members of both parties, as control of the House of Representatives, Senate and White House are in the balance. On November 6, voters will head to the polls to elect the president of the United States, 435 members of the U.S. House, 31 U.S. senators, 12 governors and thousands of state and local leaders.

With so much at stake for our industry, the SEMA Political Action Committee (SEMA PAC) encourages you to exercise your civic duty and vote. 

For more information, contact PAC Administrator Dan Sadowski at dans@sema.org or 202-783-6007, ext. 19.

If you’ve ever experienced buying anything via the Internet, you know that online buying is an anxiety-inducing activity. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that many people hesitate to buy online. Unfortunately, your website may also be contributing to the problem by increasing visitors’ uncertainty and doubt—leaving lots of money on the table.

There are four common ways to turn off your visitors:

This website has such poor production quality that it simply will not be taken seriously.

Unprofessional Website Design

An ugly or unprofessional design is one of the most obvious reasons your website is scaring a lot of potential customers away. “First impressions matter” may be cliché, but it holds true in the online world. In fact, appearances may even be more important on the web, where visitors form an initial impression of your website within 50 milliseconds. Yes, it only takes a snap of a finger for your visitors to decide where your website or landing page falls on the “cheesy” to “professional” continuum. This decision is instantaneous and automatic, so your website better look polished or your visitors will be gone in an eye blink.

Lack of Reassurances

Another way you could be losing customers is when your website fails to reassure visitors that they’re in a safe place. Instinct compels people to be on a fight-or-flight mode when they’re in unfamiliar or risky territory. Questions related to risk inevitably crop up while visitors are navigating your website: “Will I be spammed if I fill out a form?” “Will I be charged too much for minor repairs?” “How do I know you’re not selling me a lemon?” “Are these items authentic?” “Can I return an item if it’s broken?”

Before you can convert your visitors into paying customers, you have to quell that doubtful voice inside their heads by making policies, guarantees and other transactional assurances clear and visible.

Missing Outside Authority

Unless you’re a very popular brand or company, such as General Motors or Honda, don’t kid yourself that people know you and your brand promise. And if you’re not an established brand, chances are slim that you will be able to quickly build one. So what’s an unknown brand to do? The answer: borrow authority from established brands. This can be as simple as putting award seals or industry reviews on your landing page. If you don’t have awards yet but you’re an accredited outlet of a well-known brand, or you’ve been mentioned in the media, demonstrate authority by visibly showing this information on your website.

This website is missing reassurances, outside authority and social proof. It would be much stronger if these elements were added.

Lack of Social Proof

Last but not the least—does your website present social proof? By social proof, I mean confirmation from others that they have done business with you and they were satisfied with your products or services. Given that your visitors don’t know you and are wary of transacting with you, you should give them evidence that other people have found you worthy of their trust. Why? Because the human brain relies on shortcuts. When we’re faced with uncertainty, we look towards what others are doing (or have done) to validate our own decisions. That is the reason why the words “buy from an eBay powerseller with 500+ positive feedbacks” work so well—if hundreds of other people have bought from this seller, then it must be safe to buy from him.

Remember that the first job of any landing page, including your website, is to keep people from leaving. If you suspect your website isn’t doing its job well, then investigate where it fails in cultivating trust. Only then can you start plugging the leaks further down in your conversion funnel.

Tim Ash is the CEO of conversion rate optimization agency SiteTuners, bestselling author of Landing Page Optimization and chairperson and founder of the Conversion Conference event series. Don’t miss seeing him in person at the SEMA Online Marketing Conference, October 29, at the Las Vegas Hotel.