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Movers & Shakers: JoAnn Bortles Named Hypertherm National Spokesperson; Goodguys Offers No-Cost Junior Membership

By SEMA Staff

Here is a brief look at some of the recent news and updates happening in the specialty-equipment industry. Know someone who is moving on or moving up? Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org

  aftermarket news, automotive aftermarket news, aftermarket business
Custom fabricator, certified welder and renowned custom painter JoAnn Bortles was named the national automotive spokesperson for Hypertherm. 
   

Custom Fabricator and Painter JoAnn Bortles Named Hypertherm Spokesperson
Hypertherm announced that JoAnn Bortles was named the company's national automotive spokesperson. Bortles will help Hypertherm educate people about the benefits of using Powermax plasma systems and make public appearances at a variety of automotive conferences and shows, including the SEMA Show and the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show. Bortles, who participates in a variety of speaking opportunities across the country, will also byline articles for automotive, trade and national media outlets.

“We are pleased to welcome JoAnn Bortles to the Hypertherm team and look forward to reaching an expanded automotive audience with JoAnn’s extensive background and knowledge,” said Reese Madden, director of North American Marketing. “She brings to our team a multitude of skills and understands the need for plasma cutting in the hot-rod and auto restoration segment.”  

Shelby Foundation Donates $25,000 to Children's Organ Transplant Association
The Carroll Shelby Foundation donated $25,000 to the Children's Organ Transplant Association (COTA) in honor of the late Carroll Shelby. The foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit that provides medical support for children at home and around the world, as well as educational opportunities for young adults who want to advance their automotive trade skills.

“We wanted to do something special for what would have been Carroll’s 90th birthday this year,” said Jenni Shreeves, executive director of the Carroll Shelby Foundation. “What better present to give than the gift of life. The Children’s Organ Transplant Association is a wonderful organization that continues to help thousands of children and young adults receive another chance at a happy and healthy life. We’re proud to share the same mission and values of such a highly respected team of philanthropists.”

  aftermarket news, automotive aftermarket news, aftermarket business
From left to right: Bruce Meyer, Peter Mullin and David Sydorick.
   

Peter Mullin Elected Petersen Museum's Chairman
World-renowned collector and businessman Peter Mullin was elected chairman of the board of directors at the Petersen Automotive Museum. Joining him as vice chair are Bruce Meyer, one of the museum's most ardent supporters, and David Sydorick, a long-time board member. According to the museum, Mullin will lead sweeping changes in preparation for the museum's 20th anniversary. His task is to raise awareness about the museum on a national and international platform and to educate tomorrow's automotive and design enthusiasts.  

“Peter Mullin is admired worldwide as a businessman, car collector and community leader—his unique ability to merge these three worlds will be a tremendous asset to the museum and we're thrilled about this announcement,” said Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry Karges. “This is a 'dream team' whose vision will help us become one of the world's most exciting automotive destinations.”

Goodguys Launches No-Cost Junior Membership Program
Goodguys Rod & Custom Association announced the all-new, no-cost, Goodguys Junior Membership Program. To sign up, interested juniors can log on to www.good-guys.com, click on the "Read The Latest Gazette" link, create a user name and password, and they're ready to go. Goodguys Junior members receive free access to the monthly Goodguys Goodtimes Gazette digital magazine at Good-Guys.com, or on iPhones, Android-based smartphones or tablets; a Goodguys Exclusive Sticker Pack; and additional special offers and promotional notifications. Junior Members must enroll for their membership at www.good-guys.com/new-digital-gazette. Note: Sign-up requires a one-time e-mail and address sign-up for access.

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.