John Force

NEWS NUGGETS

FORCE ENDS 40-RACE WINLESS STREAK WITH FUNNY CAR WIN AT 50TH WINTERNATIONALS: In what could only be described as a Hollywood ending, 14-time NHRA Full Throttle Funny Car world champion and drag-racing legend John Force ended his 40-race winless streak in front of his hometown crowd at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, as he drove his Castrol GTX High-Mileage Ford Mustang past Ron Capps in the final round of the history-making 50th annual Kragen O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Winternationals. The NHRA legend also took over the points lead in Funny Car for the first time since November 2006, when he won his record-setting 14th world championship.

“I read in the paper that 60 is the new 40, and I’m going with that,” said Force after the win. “I am just a guy that won a race with a great team around me. Sometimes a little bit of change gets people moving again and this team is moving again. I am proud that I could win this 50th (Winternationals).”

Force was joined in the winner’s circle with California-native Larry Dixon, who won in Top Fuel, and defending Pro Stock world champion Mike Edwards. Dixon drove his Al-Anabi Racing dragster to his first win of the season and fourth at the Winternationals, a huge improvement from last season, when Dixon failed to qualify for the season-opening event.

Larry Dixon	Mike Edwards

“It’s beyond words,” said Dixon, who earned his 49th career win, which ties him for eighth place on the all-time NHRA wins list with Don “The Snake” Prudhomme. “With all the hype going into this race for the 50th, it feels good to just have a shot at it. Then to actually do it, I really feel blessed to be in this car and with this team.”

Edwards continued his dominance in the Pro Stock category. The defending champ took the No. 1 qualifying position on Thursday and was the quickest car in the class every qualifying run, which secured him the full 12 bonus points in qualifying. Edwards then picked through the field en route to his 21st career win.

“It’s a major win,” said Edwards. “What a way to start the season. My team is outrageously dependable and they make the car go down the track. We are real fortunate to have what we have.”

The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series will roll-on with its second stop of the 2010 season at Firebird International Raceway near Phoenix for the 26th annual NHRA Arizona Nationals.

MOTOROLA NHRA LIVE TIMING NOW AVAILABLE ON NHRA.COM: Live timing from NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events is now available on www.NHRA.com. Live timing began this past week for the 50th annual Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals and will be available for all NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing events. Motorola NHRA Live Timing will feature live timing from NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events so fans at home can follow the action as it is happening on the track, including all competitors and categories; full listings of incremental times and speeds; updated qualifying and elimination ladders; current weather and atmospheric conditions at the event; and complete race archive data back to the 2009 NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway.

Through the O’Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals in Houston, in addition to the live data, NHRA is making available the complete archive timing data to all www.NHRA.com visitors. After the introductory period, NHRA members will have access to the archive data as a benefit of their NHRA membership. Non-NHRA members can purchase complete archive data for a special introductory price of $19.95. All visitors to www.NHRA.com will have access to free real-time data. The new www.NHRA.com live timing complements last year’s launch of NHRA mobile application. For more information, visit www.NHRA.com.

NHRA SALUTES MILITARY WITH DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR GAINESVILLE, ATLANTA, INDY, POMONA: For the second year, NHRA will provide discounted tickets for active-duty military at the four NHRA-owned and operated facilities. Active-duty military with proof of status will be able to purchase up to two $10 adult general-admission tickets for the Friday session of the NHRA Gatornationals, March 11–14 at Gainesville Raceway, the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals, May 14–16 at Atlanta Dragway, the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Lucas Oil, September 1–6 at O’Reilly Raceway park at Indianapolis, and the Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals, November 11–14 at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. The military discount will only be redeemable at the track ticket offices on the Friday of race weekend. For information about the military discount at NHRA-owned venues, call 800/884-4762.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

NHRA ARIZONA NATIONALS, FIREBIRD INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY, February 19–21: The traditional second stop on the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing tour, competitors will head to the Valley of the Sun for the second race in the 2010 season. Defending event winners include Antron Brown (Top Fuel); Ron Capps (Funny Car); and Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock).

NHRA GATORNATIONALS, GAINESVILLE RACEWAY, March 11–14: The traditional season opener for the Pro Stock Motorcycle category, the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to this historic event in the swamp lands of Florida. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Bob Tasca (Funny Car); Jason Line (Pro Stock); and Hector Arana (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA FOUR-WIDE NATIONALS, zMAX DRAGWAY, March 25–28: For the first time in NHRA Nationals history, qualifying and eliminations for Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle at an NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series event will be conducted four-wide instead of just two.

Cory McClenathan

HE SAID, SHE SAID

NOT SETTLING FOR SECOND-PLACE: Cory McClenathan after racing to the No. 1 qualifying position in Top Fuel at the Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals, the first of 23 races on the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing season: “We plan on making noise early. I’m tired of waiting, lurking; we’re going to try to go toe-to-toe with these guys from day one.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

7: That’s the number of drivers that have won the season-opening NHRA Winternationals and NHRA Arizona Nationals, the second stop on the NHRA Full Throttle series since 1990, in the same season. Below is the list of those drivers and the years. Ron Capps made the repeat last season, and John Force, who also performed the feat in 1997, will try to become only the second driver in NHRA history to accomplish the task twice in his career.

• Gary Scelzi (Top Fuel) - 1997
• Ron Capps (Funny Car) - 2009
• John Force (Funny Car) - 1997
• Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock) - 2000
• Jim Yates (Pro Stock) - 1996
• Darrell Alderman (Pro Stock) - 1995, 1991
• Jerry Eckman (Pro Stock) - 1992

DID YOU KNOW…

…that Advertising Edge has signed a multiyear agreement to become the official uniform of NHRA. The terms of the agreement call for Advertising Edge to provide NHRA with hats, staff uniforms, shirts, event winner jackets, and other special apparel items. For more information, visit www.NHRA.com.

John Force

NEWS NUGGETS

FORCE ENDS 40-RACE WINLESS STREAK WITH FUNNY CAR WIN AT 50TH WINTERNATIONALS: In what could only be described as a Hollywood ending, 14-time NHRA Full Throttle Funny Car world champion and drag-racing legend John Force ended his 40-race winless streak in front of his hometown crowd at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona, as he drove his Castrol GTX High-Mileage Ford Mustang past Ron Capps in the final round of the history-making 50th annual Kragen O’Reilly Auto Parts NHRA Winternationals. The NHRA legend also took over the points lead in Funny Car for the first time since November 2006, when he won his record-setting 14th world championship.

“I read in the paper that 60 is the new 40, and I’m going with that,” said Force after the win. “I am just a guy that won a race with a great team around me. Sometimes a little bit of change gets people moving again and this team is moving again. I am proud that I could win this 50th (Winternationals).”

Force was joined in the winner’s circle with California-native Larry Dixon, who won in Top Fuel, and defending Pro Stock world champion Mike Edwards. Dixon drove his Al-Anabi Racing dragster to his first win of the season and fourth at the Winternationals, a huge improvement from last season, when Dixon failed to qualify for the season-opening event.

Larry Dixon	Mike Edwards

“It’s beyond words,” said Dixon, who earned his 49th career win, which ties him for eighth place on the all-time NHRA wins list with Don “The Snake” Prudhomme. “With all the hype going into this race for the 50th, it feels good to just have a shot at it. Then to actually do it, I really feel blessed to be in this car and with this team.”

Edwards continued his dominance in the Pro Stock category. The defending champ took the No. 1 qualifying position on Thursday and was the quickest car in the class every qualifying run, which secured him the full 12 bonus points in qualifying. Edwards then picked through the field en route to his 21st career win.

“It’s a major win,” said Edwards. “What a way to start the season. My team is outrageously dependable and they make the car go down the track. We are real fortunate to have what we have.”

The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series will roll-on with its second stop of the 2010 season at Firebird International Raceway near Phoenix for the 26th annual NHRA Arizona Nationals.

MOTOROLA NHRA LIVE TIMING NOW AVAILABLE ON NHRA.COM: Live timing from NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events is now available on www.NHRA.com. Live timing began this past week for the 50th annual Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals and will be available for all NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing events. Motorola NHRA Live Timing will feature live timing from NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events so fans at home can follow the action as it is happening on the track, including all competitors and categories; full listings of incremental times and speeds; updated qualifying and elimination ladders; current weather and atmospheric conditions at the event; and complete race archive data back to the 2009 NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway.

Through the O’Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals in Houston, in addition to the live data, NHRA is making available the complete archive timing data to all www.NHRA.com visitors. After the introductory period, NHRA members will have access to the archive data as a benefit of their NHRA membership. Non-NHRA members can purchase complete archive data for a special introductory price of $19.95. All visitors to www.NHRA.com will have access to free real-time data. The new www.NHRA.com live timing complements last year’s launch of NHRA mobile application. For more information, visit www.NHRA.com.

NHRA SALUTES MILITARY WITH DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR GAINESVILLE, ATLANTA, INDY, POMONA: For the second year, NHRA will provide discounted tickets for active-duty military at the four NHRA-owned and operated facilities. Active-duty military with proof of status will be able to purchase up to two $10 adult general-admission tickets for the Friday session of the NHRA Gatornationals, March 11–14 at Gainesville Raceway, the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Southern Nationals, May 14–16 at Atlanta Dragway, the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals presented by Lucas Oil, September 1–6 at O’Reilly Raceway park at Indianapolis, and the Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals, November 11–14 at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. The military discount will only be redeemable at the track ticket offices on the Friday of race weekend. For information about the military discount at NHRA-owned venues, call 800/884-4762.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

NHRA ARIZONA NATIONALS, FIREBIRD INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY, February 19–21: The traditional second stop on the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing tour, competitors will head to the Valley of the Sun for the second race in the 2010 season. Defending event winners include Antron Brown (Top Fuel); Ron Capps (Funny Car); and Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock).

NHRA GATORNATIONALS, GAINESVILLE RACEWAY, March 11–14: The traditional season opener for the Pro Stock Motorcycle category, the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to this historic event in the swamp lands of Florida. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); Bob Tasca (Funny Car); Jason Line (Pro Stock); and Hector Arana (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA FOUR-WIDE NATIONALS, zMAX DRAGWAY, March 25–28: For the first time in NHRA Nationals history, qualifying and eliminations for Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle at an NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series event will be conducted four-wide instead of just two.

Cory McClenathan

HE SAID, SHE SAID

NOT SETTLING FOR SECOND-PLACE: Cory McClenathan after racing to the No. 1 qualifying position in Top Fuel at the Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals, the first of 23 races on the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing season: “We plan on making noise early. I’m tired of waiting, lurking; we’re going to try to go toe-to-toe with these guys from day one.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

7: That’s the number of drivers that have won the season-opening NHRA Winternationals and NHRA Arizona Nationals, the second stop on the NHRA Full Throttle series since 1990, in the same season. Below is the list of those drivers and the years. Ron Capps made the repeat last season, and John Force, who also performed the feat in 1997, will try to become only the second driver in NHRA history to accomplish the task twice in his career.

• Gary Scelzi (Top Fuel) - 1997
• Ron Capps (Funny Car) - 2009
• John Force (Funny Car) - 1997
• Jeg Coughlin (Pro Stock) - 2000
• Jim Yates (Pro Stock) - 1996
• Darrell Alderman (Pro Stock) - 1995, 1991
• Jerry Eckman (Pro Stock) - 1992

DID YOU KNOW…

…that Advertising Edge has signed a multiyear agreement to become the official uniform of NHRA. The terms of the agreement call for Advertising Edge to provide NHRA with hats, staff uniforms, shirts, event winner jackets, and other special apparel items. For more information, visit www.NHRA.com.

Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Select Committee Elects Alex Tainsh as Chair-Elect

Alex Tainsh is a founding member of ARMO and has been an active member for 12 years. His accomplishments begin with a combined 16-year stint at P.U.I and Soffseal, and he is currently the sales and marketing manager for TrimParts.

Throughout his many years with ARMO, he has worked passionately to promote the "Take a Kid to a Car Show" program and, most notably, headed up the Colton Camaro project. When asked about future projects, Tainsh reiterated the importance of young enthusiasts and the preservation of the restoration market.

As Tainsh begins his two-year term as chair-elect, Laura Bergan will assume chairwoman duties July 1.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, visit the council's website.

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, visit the council's website.

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MPMC's website.

Wet Weather Fails to Dampen Spirits at Annual Media Trade Conference

The 2010 Media Trade Conference, hosted by SEMA's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC), coincided with one of the wettest weeks on record in Southern California—unfortunate for those who came from colder climes seeking a little West Coast sun and warmth.

	Media attendees of the annual Media Trade Conference can gather months of editorial content over the event's three days.

For three days from January 19–21, 100 manufacturers met with editors and writers throughout the day in a series of half-hour meetings. For manufacturers it's a chance to put their newest products in front of the enthusiast media. For editors, it's a way to nail down several months (in some cases an entire year's) worth of editorial projects.

SEMA News took the opportunity to meet with member companies to not only learn about their new products, but also the overall business climate. We were relieved to learn that most businesses are fairly optimistic about recovery in 2010, embracing a feeling that the worst has passed.

Judging by the investment these companies have made in new-product development, from Edelbrock's venture into supercharging to Yokohama's "green" tires, 2010 looks to have gotten off on the right foot for enthusiasts and specialty-equipment businesses alike.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MRC's website.

MRC Names Chris Fairless New Chair-Elect

The MRC Select Committee has named Chris Fairless of Fairless Sales & Marketing to the position of chair-elect. Fairless is a current MRC Select Committee member and will take over duties as chair-elect on July 1. Fairless stated, “I’m honored to be selected as MRC’s chair-elect. I’m looking forward to the future challenges and the opportunities. I’m excited to be involved with SEMA and MRC and hope to inspire more people in our industry to get involved. There are great opportunities ahead!” When Fairless assumes chair-elect duties on July 1, current chair-clect Wade Cobb of HAPCO will become chairman of MRC, when Joel Rosenthal’s two-year term as MRC chairman ends. At that time, Rosenthal will assume his new role as the MRC immediate past chairman/advisor.

2010 MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting its annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with the Performance Warehouse Association (PWA) Conference. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the automotive industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps.

For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you take a moment and contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 ext. 104 or e-mail stacib@sema.org.

Read MRC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock. 

Visit PRO's website.

	PRO Chairman Karl Stearns credits the hard work of the council members for the success of the group's NovemberFest at the 2009 SEMA Show.

The first-ever PRO Industry Awards reception held at the SEMA Show was an overwhelming success for the PRO council. Branded "NovemberFest," the reception played to a packed house, as more than 200 attendees filled Ballrooms D, E, F and G at the Las Vegas Hilton to standing room only. The evening included a free commemorative event T-shirt, German-themed food and bar menus and presentations of PRO’s annual industry awards.

"I am so proud of this council,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “At our LRP in June, the idea for a reception was introduced. Someone suggested we come up with a brand for the event so that it wouldn’t just be another reception. Someone else suggested NovemberFest, and the Select Committee was off and running. Select Committee members designed the logo, menu, T-shirt and the bookmark invitation concept and solicited sponsorship monies.

"SEMA did the final invitation layout, and we kept them apprised every step of the way to make sure nothing fell off the track. At the Show, we all pushed the invitations from our booths and in the aisles. The process was a textbook volunteer cooperation. The success of the actual event is icing on the cake. We’re already looking forward to next year!"

NovemberFest was held on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit SBN's website.

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, visit the committee's website.

Visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit WTC's website.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit YEN's website.

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Select Committee Elects Alex Tainsh as Chair-Elect

Alex Tainsh is a founding member of ARMO and has been an active member for 12 years. His accomplishments begin with a combined 16-year stint at P.U.I and Soffseal, and he is currently the sales and marketing manager for TrimParts.

Throughout his many years with ARMO, he has worked passionately to promote the "Take a Kid to a Car Show" program and, most notably, headed up the Colton Camaro project. When asked about future projects, Tainsh reiterated the importance of young enthusiasts and the preservation of the restoration market.

As Tainsh begins his two-year term as chair-elect, Laura Bergan will assume chairwoman duties July 1.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, visit the council's website.

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, visit the council's website.

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MPMC's website.

Wet Weather Fails to Dampen Spirits at Annual Media Trade Conference

The 2010 Media Trade Conference, hosted by SEMA's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC), coincided with one of the wettest weeks on record in Southern California—unfortunate for those who came from colder climes seeking a little West Coast sun and warmth.

	Media attendees of the annual Media Trade Conference can gather months of editorial content over the event's three days.

For three days from January 19–21, 100 manufacturers met with editors and writers throughout the day in a series of half-hour meetings. For manufacturers it's a chance to put their newest products in front of the enthusiast media. For editors, it's a way to nail down several months (in some cases an entire year's) worth of editorial projects.

SEMA News took the opportunity to meet with member companies to not only learn about their new products, but also the overall business climate. We were relieved to learn that most businesses are fairly optimistic about recovery in 2010, embracing a feeling that the worst has passed.

Judging by the investment these companies have made in new-product development, from Edelbrock's venture into supercharging to Yokohama's "green" tires, 2010 looks to have gotten off on the right foot for enthusiasts and specialty-equipment businesses alike.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MRC's website.

MRC Names Chris Fairless New Chair-Elect

The MRC Select Committee has named Chris Fairless of Fairless Sales & Marketing to the position of chair-elect. Fairless is a current MRC Select Committee member and will take over duties as chair-elect on July 1. Fairless stated, “I’m honored to be selected as MRC’s chair-elect. I’m looking forward to the future challenges and the opportunities. I’m excited to be involved with SEMA and MRC and hope to inspire more people in our industry to get involved. There are great opportunities ahead!” When Fairless assumes chair-elect duties on July 1, current chair-clect Wade Cobb of HAPCO will become chairman of MRC, when Joel Rosenthal’s two-year term as MRC chairman ends. At that time, Rosenthal will assume his new role as the MRC immediate past chairman/advisor.

2010 MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting its annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with the Performance Warehouse Association (PWA) Conference. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the automotive industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps.

For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you take a moment and contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 ext. 104 or e-mail stacib@sema.org.

Read MRC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock. 

Visit PRO's website.

	PRO Chairman Karl Stearns credits the hard work of the council members for the success of the group's NovemberFest at the 2009 SEMA Show.

The first-ever PRO Industry Awards reception held at the SEMA Show was an overwhelming success for the PRO council. Branded "NovemberFest," the reception played to a packed house, as more than 200 attendees filled Ballrooms D, E, F and G at the Las Vegas Hilton to standing room only. The evening included a free commemorative event T-shirt, German-themed food and bar menus and presentations of PRO’s annual industry awards.

"I am so proud of this council,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “At our LRP in June, the idea for a reception was introduced. Someone suggested we come up with a brand for the event so that it wouldn’t just be another reception. Someone else suggested NovemberFest, and the Select Committee was off and running. Select Committee members designed the logo, menu, T-shirt and the bookmark invitation concept and solicited sponsorship monies.

"SEMA did the final invitation layout, and we kept them apprised every step of the way to make sure nothing fell off the track. At the Show, we all pushed the invitations from our booths and in the aisles. The process was a textbook volunteer cooperation. The success of the actual event is icing on the cake. We’re already looking forward to next year!"

NovemberFest was held on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit SBN's website.

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, visit the committee's website.

Visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit WTC's website.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit YEN's website.

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Select Committee Elects Alex Tainsh as Chair-Elect

Alex Tainsh is a founding member of ARMO and has been an active member for 12 years. His accomplishments begin with a combined 16-year stint at P.U.I and Soffseal, and he is currently the sales and marketing manager for TrimParts.

Throughout his many years with ARMO, he has worked passionately to promote the "Take a Kid to a Car Show" program and, most notably, headed up the Colton Camaro project. When asked about future projects, Tainsh reiterated the importance of young enthusiasts and the preservation of the restoration market.

As Tainsh begins his two-year term as chair-elect, Laura Bergan will assume chairwoman duties July 1.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, visit the council's website.

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, visit the council's website.

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MPMC's website.

Wet Weather Fails to Dampen Spirits at Annual Media Trade Conference

The 2010 Media Trade Conference, hosted by SEMA's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC), coincided with one of the wettest weeks on record in Southern California—unfortunate for those who came from colder climes seeking a little West Coast sun and warmth.

	Media attendees of the annual Media Trade Conference can gather months of editorial content over the event's three days.

For three days from January 19–21, 100 manufacturers met with editors and writers throughout the day in a series of half-hour meetings. For manufacturers it's a chance to put their newest products in front of the enthusiast media. For editors, it's a way to nail down several months (in some cases an entire year's) worth of editorial projects.

SEMA News took the opportunity to meet with member companies to not only learn about their new products, but also the overall business climate. We were relieved to learn that most businesses are fairly optimistic about recovery in 2010, embracing a feeling that the worst has passed.

Judging by the investment these companies have made in new-product development, from Edelbrock's venture into supercharging to Yokohama's "green" tires, 2010 looks to have gotten off on the right foot for enthusiasts and specialty-equipment businesses alike.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MRC's website.

MRC Names Chris Fairless New Chair-Elect

The MRC Select Committee has named Chris Fairless of Fairless Sales & Marketing to the position of chair-elect. Fairless is a current MRC Select Committee member and will take over duties as chair-elect on July 1. Fairless stated, “I’m honored to be selected as MRC’s chair-elect. I’m looking forward to the future challenges and the opportunities. I’m excited to be involved with SEMA and MRC and hope to inspire more people in our industry to get involved. There are great opportunities ahead!” When Fairless assumes chair-elect duties on July 1, current chair-clect Wade Cobb of HAPCO will become chairman of MRC, when Joel Rosenthal’s two-year term as MRC chairman ends. At that time, Rosenthal will assume his new role as the MRC immediate past chairman/advisor.

2010 MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting its annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with the Performance Warehouse Association (PWA) Conference. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the automotive industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps.

For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you take a moment and contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 ext. 104 or e-mail stacib@sema.org.

Read MRC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock. 

Visit PRO's website.

	PRO Chairman Karl Stearns credits the hard work of the council members for the success of the group's NovemberFest at the 2009 SEMA Show.

The first-ever PRO Industry Awards reception held at the SEMA Show was an overwhelming success for the PRO council. Branded "NovemberFest," the reception played to a packed house, as more than 200 attendees filled Ballrooms D, E, F and G at the Las Vegas Hilton to standing room only. The evening included a free commemorative event T-shirt, German-themed food and bar menus and presentations of PRO’s annual industry awards.

"I am so proud of this council,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “At our LRP in June, the idea for a reception was introduced. Someone suggested we come up with a brand for the event so that it wouldn’t just be another reception. Someone else suggested NovemberFest, and the Select Committee was off and running. Select Committee members designed the logo, menu, T-shirt and the bookmark invitation concept and solicited sponsorship monies.

"SEMA did the final invitation layout, and we kept them apprised every step of the way to make sure nothing fell off the track. At the Show, we all pushed the invitations from our booths and in the aisles. The process was a textbook volunteer cooperation. The success of the actual event is icing on the cake. We’re already looking forward to next year!"

NovemberFest was held on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit SBN's website.

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, visit the committee's website.

Visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit WTC's website.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit YEN's website.

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Select Committee Elects Alex Tainsh as Chair-Elect

Alex Tainsh is a founding member of ARMO and has been an active member for 12 years. His accomplishments begin with a combined 16-year stint at P.U.I and Soffseal, and he is currently the sales and marketing manager for TrimParts.

Throughout his many years with ARMO, he has worked passionately to promote the "Take a Kid to a Car Show" program and, most notably, headed up the Colton Camaro project. When asked about future projects, Tainsh reiterated the importance of young enthusiasts and the preservation of the restoration market.

As Tainsh begins his two-year term as chair-elect, Laura Bergan will assume chairwoman duties July 1.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, visit the council's website.

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, visit the council's website.

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MPMC's website.

Wet Weather Fails to Dampen Spirits at Annual Media Trade Conference

The 2010 Media Trade Conference, hosted by SEMA's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC), coincided with one of the wettest weeks on record in Southern California—unfortunate for those who came from colder climes seeking a little West Coast sun and warmth.

	Media attendees of the annual Media Trade Conference can gather months of editorial content over the event's three days.

For three days from January 19–21, 100 manufacturers met with editors and writers throughout the day in a series of half-hour meetings. For manufacturers it's a chance to put their newest products in front of the enthusiast media. For editors, it's a way to nail down several months (in some cases an entire year's) worth of editorial projects.

SEMA News took the opportunity to meet with member companies to not only learn about their new products, but also the overall business climate. We were relieved to learn that most businesses are fairly optimistic about recovery in 2010, embracing a feeling that the worst has passed.

Judging by the investment these companies have made in new-product development, from Edelbrock's venture into supercharging to Yokohama's "green" tires, 2010 looks to have gotten off on the right foot for enthusiasts and specialty-equipment businesses alike.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MRC's website.

MRC Names Chris Fairless New Chair-Elect

The MRC Select Committee has named Chris Fairless of Fairless Sales & Marketing to the position of chair-elect. Fairless is a current MRC Select Committee member and will take over duties as chair-elect on July 1. Fairless stated, “I’m honored to be selected as MRC’s chair-elect. I’m looking forward to the future challenges and the opportunities. I’m excited to be involved with SEMA and MRC and hope to inspire more people in our industry to get involved. There are great opportunities ahead!” When Fairless assumes chair-elect duties on July 1, current chair-clect Wade Cobb of HAPCO will become chairman of MRC, when Joel Rosenthal’s two-year term as MRC chairman ends. At that time, Rosenthal will assume his new role as the MRC immediate past chairman/advisor.

2010 MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting its annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with the Performance Warehouse Association (PWA) Conference. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the automotive industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps.

For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you take a moment and contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 ext. 104 or e-mail stacib@sema.org.

Read MRC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock. 

Visit PRO's website.

	PRO Chairman Karl Stearns credits the hard work of the council members for the success of the group's NovemberFest at the 2009 SEMA Show.

The first-ever PRO Industry Awards reception held at the SEMA Show was an overwhelming success for the PRO council. Branded "NovemberFest," the reception played to a packed house, as more than 200 attendees filled Ballrooms D, E, F and G at the Las Vegas Hilton to standing room only. The evening included a free commemorative event T-shirt, German-themed food and bar menus and presentations of PRO’s annual industry awards.

"I am so proud of this council,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “At our LRP in June, the idea for a reception was introduced. Someone suggested we come up with a brand for the event so that it wouldn’t just be another reception. Someone else suggested NovemberFest, and the Select Committee was off and running. Select Committee members designed the logo, menu, T-shirt and the bookmark invitation concept and solicited sponsorship monies.

"SEMA did the final invitation layout, and we kept them apprised every step of the way to make sure nothing fell off the track. At the Show, we all pushed the invitations from our booths and in the aisles. The process was a textbook volunteer cooperation. The success of the actual event is icing on the cake. We’re already looking forward to next year!"

NovemberFest was held on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit SBN's website.

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, visit the committee's website.

Visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit WTC's website.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit YEN's website.

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Select Committee Elects Alex Tainsh as Chair-Elect

Alex Tainsh is a founding member of ARMO and has been an active member for 12 years. His accomplishments begin with a combined 16-year stint at P.U.I and Soffseal, and he is currently the sales and marketing manager for TrimParts.

Throughout his many years with ARMO, he has worked passionately to promote the "Take a Kid to a Car Show" program and, most notably, headed up the Colton Camaro project. When asked about future projects, Tainsh reiterated the importance of young enthusiasts and the preservation of the restoration market.

As Tainsh begins his two-year term as chair-elect, Laura Bergan will assume chairwoman duties July 1.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, visit the council's website.

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, visit the council's website.

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MPMC's website.

Wet Weather Fails to Dampen Spirits at Annual Media Trade Conference

The 2010 Media Trade Conference, hosted by SEMA's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC), coincided with one of the wettest weeks on record in Southern California—unfortunate for those who came from colder climes seeking a little West Coast sun and warmth.

	Media attendees of the annual Media Trade Conference can gather months of editorial content over the event's three days.

For three days from January 19–21, 100 manufacturers met with editors and writers throughout the day in a series of half-hour meetings. For manufacturers it's a chance to put their newest products in front of the enthusiast media. For editors, it's a way to nail down several months (in some cases an entire year's) worth of editorial projects.

SEMA News took the opportunity to meet with member companies to not only learn about their new products, but also the overall business climate. We were relieved to learn that most businesses are fairly optimistic about recovery in 2010, embracing a feeling that the worst has passed.

Judging by the investment these companies have made in new-product development, from Edelbrock's venture into supercharging to Yokohama's "green" tires, 2010 looks to have gotten off on the right foot for enthusiasts and specialty-equipment businesses alike.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MRC's website.

MRC Names Chris Fairless New Chair-Elect

The MRC Select Committee has named Chris Fairless of Fairless Sales & Marketing to the position of chair-elect. Fairless is a current MRC Select Committee member and will take over duties as chair-elect on July 1. Fairless stated, “I’m honored to be selected as MRC’s chair-elect. I’m looking forward to the future challenges and the opportunities. I’m excited to be involved with SEMA and MRC and hope to inspire more people in our industry to get involved. There are great opportunities ahead!” When Fairless assumes chair-elect duties on July 1, current chair-clect Wade Cobb of HAPCO will become chairman of MRC, when Joel Rosenthal’s two-year term as MRC chairman ends. At that time, Rosenthal will assume his new role as the MRC immediate past chairman/advisor.

2010 MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting its annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with the Performance Warehouse Association (PWA) Conference. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the automotive industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps.

For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you take a moment and contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 ext. 104 or e-mail stacib@sema.org.

Read MRC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock. 

Visit PRO's website.

	PRO Chairman Karl Stearns credits the hard work of the council members for the success of the group's NovemberFest at the 2009 SEMA Show.

The first-ever PRO Industry Awards reception held at the SEMA Show was an overwhelming success for the PRO council. Branded "NovemberFest," the reception played to a packed house, as more than 200 attendees filled Ballrooms D, E, F and G at the Las Vegas Hilton to standing room only. The evening included a free commemorative event T-shirt, German-themed food and bar menus and presentations of PRO’s annual industry awards.

"I am so proud of this council,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “At our LRP in June, the idea for a reception was introduced. Someone suggested we come up with a brand for the event so that it wouldn’t just be another reception. Someone else suggested NovemberFest, and the Select Committee was off and running. Select Committee members designed the logo, menu, T-shirt and the bookmark invitation concept and solicited sponsorship monies.

"SEMA did the final invitation layout, and we kept them apprised every step of the way to make sure nothing fell off the track. At the Show, we all pushed the invitations from our booths and in the aisles. The process was a textbook volunteer cooperation. The success of the actual event is icing on the cake. We’re already looking forward to next year!"

NovemberFest was held on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit SBN's website.

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, visit the committee's website.

Visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit WTC's website.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit YEN's website.

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Select Committee Elects Alex Tainsh as Chair-Elect

Alex Tainsh is a founding member of ARMO and has been an active member for 12 years. His accomplishments begin with a combined 16-year stint at P.U.I and Soffseal, and he is currently the sales and marketing manager for TrimParts.

Throughout his many years with ARMO, he has worked passionately to promote the "Take a Kid to a Car Show" program and, most notably, headed up the Colton Camaro project. When asked about future projects, Tainsh reiterated the importance of young enthusiasts and the preservation of the restoration market.

As Tainsh begins his two-year term as chair-elect, Laura Bergan will assume chairwoman duties July 1.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, visit the council's website.

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, visit the council's website.

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MPMC's website.

Wet Weather Fails to Dampen Spirits at Annual Media Trade Conference

The 2010 Media Trade Conference, hosted by SEMA's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC), coincided with one of the wettest weeks on record in Southern California—unfortunate for those who came from colder climes seeking a little West Coast sun and warmth.

	Media attendees of the annual Media Trade Conference can gather months of editorial content over the event's three days.

For three days from January 19–21, 100 manufacturers met with editors and writers throughout the day in a series of half-hour meetings. For manufacturers it's a chance to put their newest products in front of the enthusiast media. For editors, it's a way to nail down several months (in some cases an entire year's) worth of editorial projects.

SEMA News took the opportunity to meet with member companies to not only learn about their new products, but also the overall business climate. We were relieved to learn that most businesses are fairly optimistic about recovery in 2010, embracing a feeling that the worst has passed.

Judging by the investment these companies have made in new-product development, from Edelbrock's venture into supercharging to Yokohama's "green" tires, 2010 looks to have gotten off on the right foot for enthusiasts and specialty-equipment businesses alike.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MRC's website.

MRC Names Chris Fairless New Chair-Elect

The MRC Select Committee has named Chris Fairless of Fairless Sales & Marketing to the position of chair-elect. Fairless is a current MRC Select Committee member and will take over duties as chair-elect on July 1. Fairless stated, “I’m honored to be selected as MRC’s chair-elect. I’m looking forward to the future challenges and the opportunities. I’m excited to be involved with SEMA and MRC and hope to inspire more people in our industry to get involved. There are great opportunities ahead!” When Fairless assumes chair-elect duties on July 1, current chair-clect Wade Cobb of HAPCO will become chairman of MRC, when Joel Rosenthal’s two-year term as MRC chairman ends. At that time, Rosenthal will assume his new role as the MRC immediate past chairman/advisor.

2010 MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting its annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with the Performance Warehouse Association (PWA) Conference. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the automotive industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps.

For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you take a moment and contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 ext. 104 or e-mail stacib@sema.org.

Read MRC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock. 

Visit PRO's website.

	PRO Chairman Karl Stearns credits the hard work of the council members for the success of the group's NovemberFest at the 2009 SEMA Show.

The first-ever PRO Industry Awards reception held at the SEMA Show was an overwhelming success for the PRO council. Branded "NovemberFest," the reception played to a packed house, as more than 200 attendees filled Ballrooms D, E, F and G at the Las Vegas Hilton to standing room only. The evening included a free commemorative event T-shirt, German-themed food and bar menus and presentations of PRO’s annual industry awards.

"I am so proud of this council,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “At our LRP in June, the idea for a reception was introduced. Someone suggested we come up with a brand for the event so that it wouldn’t just be another reception. Someone else suggested NovemberFest, and the Select Committee was off and running. Select Committee members designed the logo, menu, T-shirt and the bookmark invitation concept and solicited sponsorship monies.

"SEMA did the final invitation layout, and we kept them apprised every step of the way to make sure nothing fell off the track. At the Show, we all pushed the invitations from our booths and in the aisles. The process was a textbook volunteer cooperation. The success of the actual event is icing on the cake. We’re already looking forward to next year!"

NovemberFest was held on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit SBN's website.

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, visit the committee's website.

Visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit WTC's website.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit YEN's website.

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Select Committee Elects Alex Tainsh as Chair-Elect

Alex Tainsh is a founding member of ARMO and has been an active member for 12 years. His accomplishments begin with a combined 16-year stint at P.U.I and Soffseal, and he is currently the sales and marketing manager for TrimParts.

Throughout his many years with ARMO, he has worked passionately to promote the "Take a Kid to a Car Show" program and, most notably, headed up the Colton Camaro project. When asked about future projects, Tainsh reiterated the importance of young enthusiasts and the preservation of the restoration market.

As Tainsh begins his two-year term as chair-elect, Laura Bergan will assume chairwoman duties July 1.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, visit the council's website.

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, visit the council's website.

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MPMC's website.

Wet Weather Fails to Dampen Spirits at Annual Media Trade Conference

The 2010 Media Trade Conference, hosted by SEMA's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC), coincided with one of the wettest weeks on record in Southern California—unfortunate for those who came from colder climes seeking a little West Coast sun and warmth.

	Media attendees of the annual Media Trade Conference can gather months of editorial content over the event's three days.

For three days from January 19–21, 100 manufacturers met with editors and writers throughout the day in a series of half-hour meetings. For manufacturers it's a chance to put their newest products in front of the enthusiast media. For editors, it's a way to nail down several months (in some cases an entire year's) worth of editorial projects.

SEMA News took the opportunity to meet with member companies to not only learn about their new products, but also the overall business climate. We were relieved to learn that most businesses are fairly optimistic about recovery in 2010, embracing a feeling that the worst has passed.

Judging by the investment these companies have made in new-product development, from Edelbrock's venture into supercharging to Yokohama's "green" tires, 2010 looks to have gotten off on the right foot for enthusiasts and specialty-equipment businesses alike.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MRC's website.

MRC Names Chris Fairless New Chair-Elect

The MRC Select Committee has named Chris Fairless of Fairless Sales & Marketing to the position of chair-elect. Fairless is a current MRC Select Committee member and will take over duties as chair-elect on July 1. Fairless stated, “I’m honored to be selected as MRC’s chair-elect. I’m looking forward to the future challenges and the opportunities. I’m excited to be involved with SEMA and MRC and hope to inspire more people in our industry to get involved. There are great opportunities ahead!” When Fairless assumes chair-elect duties on July 1, current chair-clect Wade Cobb of HAPCO will become chairman of MRC, when Joel Rosenthal’s two-year term as MRC chairman ends. At that time, Rosenthal will assume his new role as the MRC immediate past chairman/advisor.

2010 MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting its annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with the Performance Warehouse Association (PWA) Conference. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the automotive industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps.

For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you take a moment and contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 ext. 104 or e-mail stacib@sema.org.

Read MRC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock. 

Visit PRO's website.

	PRO Chairman Karl Stearns credits the hard work of the council members for the success of the group's NovemberFest at the 2009 SEMA Show.

The first-ever PRO Industry Awards reception held at the SEMA Show was an overwhelming success for the PRO council. Branded "NovemberFest," the reception played to a packed house, as more than 200 attendees filled Ballrooms D, E, F and G at the Las Vegas Hilton to standing room only. The evening included a free commemorative event T-shirt, German-themed food and bar menus and presentations of PRO’s annual industry awards.

"I am so proud of this council,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “At our LRP in June, the idea for a reception was introduced. Someone suggested we come up with a brand for the event so that it wouldn’t just be another reception. Someone else suggested NovemberFest, and the Select Committee was off and running. Select Committee members designed the logo, menu, T-shirt and the bookmark invitation concept and solicited sponsorship monies.

"SEMA did the final invitation layout, and we kept them apprised every step of the way to make sure nothing fell off the track. At the Show, we all pushed the invitations from our booths and in the aisles. The process was a textbook volunteer cooperation. The success of the actual event is icing on the cake. We’re already looking forward to next year!"

NovemberFest was held on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit SBN's website.

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, visit the committee's website.

Visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit WTC's website.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit YEN's website.

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Select Committee Elects Alex Tainsh as Chair-Elect

Alex Tainsh is a founding member of ARMO and has been an active member for 12 years. His accomplishments begin with a combined 16-year stint at P.U.I and Soffseal, and he is currently the sales and marketing manager for TrimParts.

Throughout his many years with ARMO, he has worked passionately to promote the "Take a Kid to a Car Show" program and, most notably, headed up the Colton Camaro project. When asked about future projects, Tainsh reiterated the importance of young enthusiasts and the preservation of the restoration market.

As Tainsh begins his two-year term as chair-elect, Laura Bergan will assume chairwoman duties July 1.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, visit the council's website.

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA, visit the council's website.

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MPMC's website.

Wet Weather Fails to Dampen Spirits at Annual Media Trade Conference

The 2010 Media Trade Conference, hosted by SEMA's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC), coincided with one of the wettest weeks on record in Southern California—unfortunate for those who came from colder climes seeking a little West Coast sun and warmth.

	Media attendees of the annual Media Trade Conference can gather months of editorial content over the event's three days.

For three days from January 19–21, 100 manufacturers met with editors and writers throughout the day in a series of half-hour meetings. For manufacturers it's a chance to put their newest products in front of the enthusiast media. For editors, it's a way to nail down several months (in some cases an entire year's) worth of editorial projects.

SEMA News took the opportunity to meet with member companies to not only learn about their new products, but also the overall business climate. We were relieved to learn that most businesses are fairly optimistic about recovery in 2010, embracing a feeling that the worst has passed.

Judging by the investment these companies have made in new-product development, from Edelbrock's venture into supercharging to Yokohama's "green" tires, 2010 looks to have gotten off on the right foot for enthusiasts and specialty-equipment businesses alike.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MRC's website.

MRC Names Chris Fairless New Chair-Elect

The MRC Select Committee has named Chris Fairless of Fairless Sales & Marketing to the position of chair-elect. Fairless is a current MRC Select Committee member and will take over duties as chair-elect on July 1. Fairless stated, “I’m honored to be selected as MRC’s chair-elect. I’m looking forward to the future challenges and the opportunities. I’m excited to be involved with SEMA and MRC and hope to inspire more people in our industry to get involved. There are great opportunities ahead!” When Fairless assumes chair-elect duties on July 1, current chair-clect Wade Cobb of HAPCO will become chairman of MRC, when Joel Rosenthal’s two-year term as MRC chairman ends. At that time, Rosenthal will assume his new role as the MRC immediate past chairman/advisor.

2010 MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting its annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with the Performance Warehouse Association (PWA) Conference. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the automotive industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps.

For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you take a moment and contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 ext. 104 or e-mail stacib@sema.org.

Read MRC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock. 

Visit PRO's website.

	PRO Chairman Karl Stearns credits the hard work of the council members for the success of the group's NovemberFest at the 2009 SEMA Show.

The first-ever PRO Industry Awards reception held at the SEMA Show was an overwhelming success for the PRO council. Branded "NovemberFest," the reception played to a packed house, as more than 200 attendees filled Ballrooms D, E, F and G at the Las Vegas Hilton to standing room only. The evening included a free commemorative event T-shirt, German-themed food and bar menus and presentations of PRO’s annual industry awards.

"I am so proud of this council,” said PRO Chairman Karl Stearns. “At our LRP in June, the idea for a reception was introduced. Someone suggested we come up with a brand for the event so that it wouldn’t just be another reception. Someone else suggested NovemberFest, and the Select Committee was off and running. Select Committee members designed the logo, menu, T-shirt and the bookmark invitation concept and solicited sponsorship monies.

"SEMA did the final invitation layout, and we kept them apprised every step of the way to make sure nothing fell off the track. At the Show, we all pushed the invitations from our booths and in the aisles. The process was a textbook volunteer cooperation. The success of the actual event is icing on the cake. We’re already looking forward to next year!"

NovemberFest was held on Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hilton.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit SBN's website.

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, visit the committee's website.

Visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Visit WTC's website.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit YEN's website.

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the January/February issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Nathan Ridnouer.