NEWS NUGGETS

50TH ANNIVERSARY WINTERNATIONALS WEB SITE LAUNCHED: NHRA kicked off the Countdown to the historic 50th running of the Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals presented by Valvoline by unveiling a website dedicated specifically to the event. Fans can visit www.50thwinternationals.com for all information pertaining to the February 11–14 event at Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. The website is chock-full of features that will help fans heading to Pomona for the once-in-a-lifetime event, including details about autograph sessions with many of NHRA’s legendary drivers, the Golden 50 car show, Cacklefests and the Legends Dinner. The site also features lists of all past winners, plenty of vintage video and a decade-by-decade look back at the second-longest running event on the NHRA circuit behind only the Mac Tools U.S. Nationals.

To complement the online look back at the storied history of the Winternationals, NHRA fans can find and purchase a companion book or DVD on the site detailing the history of the Winternationals. The book is an encyclopedia of one of NHRA’s most prestigious events, complete with stats, facts, photos and feature profiles of NHRA Legends such as Don Garlits, Don Prudhomme, Jim Dunn, Connie Kalitta and Shirley Muldowney. It will be a great keepsake and, if you’re one of the tens of thousands of fans heading to Auto Club Raceway at Pomona February 11–14 for this historic NHRA event, a great autograph book.

To visit the 50th annual Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals website, click here.

“GOLDEN 50 CORRAL” HEADLINES SERIES OF PREMIUM BONUS EVENTS ON DISPLAY AT THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY WINTERNATIONALS: Whatever your favorite sport or hobby, nothing stirs the emotions like a walk down memory lane. And nothing will compare to the walk down memory lane NHRA fans will get to take at the 50th running of the Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals, February 11–14 at Auto Club raceway at Pomona, when NHRA officials unveil the Golden 50 Corral, a car show to end all car shows.

From “Big Daddy” Don Garlits’ Swamp Rat 5 to the Kohler Brothers’ King Kong AA/GS to the Stone, Woods & Cook Willy’s coupe (voted No. 1 National DRAGSTER’s “Favorite Race Car Ever” poll) to so many more classics, this would be a drop-everything, must-attend event for every car enthusiast from Los Angeles to London—even if it stood as a standalone, paid-entry car show. But admission to the once-in-a-lifetime event, amazingly, will be free and open to all NHRA fans with their entry to the historic 50th annual Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals.

For more on this event, including many of the other special events centered around the Kragen O’Reilly NHRA Winternationals, visit www.NHRA.com.

PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE RIDER ANGIE SMITH GETS FULL-RIDE WITH KLEMENT FOR 2010: Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Angie Smith will race a full schedule on the 2010 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series tour aboard Karl and Kim Klement’s Buell thanks to sponsorship from Coffman Tank Trucks. Smith’s husband, former NHRA Full Throttle Pro Stock Motorcycle world champion Matt Smith, will build the team’s engines and oversee the program from the crew-chief role. Thanks to the sponsorship with Coffman, the Klement Racing team will be able to test as well as conduct research and development programs.

“We have a good program, and I feel like we have a team that will perform well,” said Smith. “Our biggest goal is to get in the top 10 this year, and we feel like we have a team that legitimately can do that.” For more on Angie Smith’s new ride, visit www.NHRA.com.

	The new Tower Club at Houston Raceway Park.

NEW TOWER CLUB TO DEBUT AT HOUSTON RACEWAY PARK: Continuing a multiyear effort to offer guests a first-class experience, the owners of Houston Raceway Park will soon christen a 12,000-sq.-ft., state-of-the-art Tower Club starting-line facility. Already near completion, the deluxe permanent structure on the west side of the conventional tower suites will transform a regular day at the drag races into a VIP experience for race fans, with numerous amenities never before offered at the track.

The official grand opening of the Tower Club is slated for 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Thursday, March 4. Members of the Baytown Chamber of Commerce will assist in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4:30 p.m. and a reception will follow. The event is open to the public. Individual Darrell Russell Top Eliminator Club tickets in the brand-new Tower Club are on sale for the 23rd annual O’Reilly NHRA Spring Nationals presented by Pennzoil, April 9–11 at Houston Raceway Park. To purchase tickets, visit www.NHRA.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

KRAGEN O’REILLY NHRA WINTERNATIONALS, AUTO CLUB RACEWAY AT POMONA, FEBRUARY 11–14: The 2010 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series will kick off in sunny Southern California with the 50th anniversary of the Winternationals. Defending event winners include Doug Kalitta (Top Fuel); Ron Capps (Funny Car); and Jason Line (Pro Stock).

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).

HE SAID, SHE SAID

PREMONITION?: Top Fuel pilot Tony Schumacher, who won his seventh world championship this season by a mere two points, at the first of the 2009 season: “It’s going to be a war right down to the final round in Pomona. Whoever wins this thing will have earned it big time.”

	Robert Hight

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

15-3: That’s the round win/loss record that Funny Car world champion Robert Hight had during the six-race Countdown to 1 playoffs in 2009. Hight, in his Auto Club Ford Mustang, had a round winning percentage of .833 to earn his first world championship and 16th for John Force Racing.

DID YOU KNOW…

…that legendary driver, Don “Snake” Prudhomme won his first NHRA Winternationals event in 1965 in the Top Fuel category, but didn’t win his next Winternationals event until a decade later in 1975 in the Funny Car class. The Funny Car win was one of four-straight Winternationals wins for Prudhomme, who took the Wally home in 1975, 1976, 1977 and 1978.

 

Industry leaders including (from left) MIA's Chris Aylett, SEMA's Chris Kersting, Braille Battery's Blake Fuller and TTXGP's Azhar Hussain discuss green racing technologies at last year's "The Race Goes Green" seminar.

The Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) and SEMA will once again convene a special industry conference, April 16, 2010, at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, focused on green performance developments in the world of motorsports.

Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, the conference will bring together international leaders in green motorsports with high-performance automotive aftermarket business leaders. Delegates will share ideas and discuss ways in which the industry is developing green technologies to promote solutions for future green products for the world's car manufacturers and specialty-equipment suppliers.

The conference will be held on Friday of the race weekend, and attendees will see green racing up close during practice and qualifying sessions for two of the leading green racing series in America: American Le Mans Series and IZOD IndyCar. Conference attendees can also take informative tours of the grand prix paddock areas.

"Motorsports has already shown how green solutions can be demonstrated 'on track' and win," said MIA Chief Executive Chris Aylett. "This helps consumers realize that high performance and low carbon can work together and still be cool. It also opens up genuine new business for those in motorsports and closer relationships with mainstream auto OEMs, too."

SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting believes green performance has the potential to be one of fastest-growing segments of SEMA.

"The new generation of clean diesels, GDI, hybrid and battery electric vehicles are leading the reinvention of the automobile and creating exciting opportunities for both SEMA-member companies and bold new OEMs," Kersting said.

The MIA-SEMA Green Racing and Performance Conference is a great opportunity for specialty-equipment business leaders, engineers, product planners, marketing and sales people to meet and connect with many of the industry's experts defining the crossroads of green racing and performance.

"We are delighted to again provide the venue for the MIA-SEMA Green Conference and to participate in the very topical themes pertaining to green racing and performance," said Jim Michaelian, President and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. "The subject matter also ties very directly into our 'Green Power Prix-View' interactive display area which will be located in our Lifestyle Expo in the Long Beach Convention Center all weekend."

Alongside many high-profile business leaders, Scott Atherton, president and CEO of American Le Mans Series, will speak on developments in the high-tech world of sports car racing in the United States. Additionally, Race Tech and Race Car magazines are already confirmed as media partners for the event.

For more information:

Jeremy Burne, MIA
Jbftauto@aol.com

John Waraniak, SEMA
Johnw@sema.org

Industry leaders including (from left) MIA's Chris Aylett, SEMA's Chris Kersting, Braille Battery's Blake Fuller and TTXGP's Azhar Hussain discuss green racing technologies at last year's "The Race Goes Green" seminar.

The Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) and SEMA will once again convene a special industry conference, April 16, 2010, at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, focused on green performance developments in the world of motorsports.

Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, the conference will bring together international leaders in green motorsports with high-performance automotive aftermarket business leaders. Delegates will share ideas and discuss ways in which the industry is developing green technologies to promote solutions for future green products for the world's car manufacturers and specialty-equipment suppliers.

The conference will be held on Friday of the race weekend, and attendees will see green racing up close during practice and qualifying sessions for two of the leading green racing series in America: American Le Mans Series and IZOD IndyCar. Conference attendees can also take informative tours of the grand prix paddock areas.

"Motorsports has already shown how green solutions can be demonstrated 'on track' and win," said MIA Chief Executive Chris Aylett. "This helps consumers realize that high performance and low carbon can work together and still be cool. It also opens up genuine new business for those in motorsports and closer relationships with mainstream auto OEMs, too."

SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting believes green performance has the potential to be one of fastest-growing segments of SEMA.

"The new generation of clean diesels, GDI, hybrid and battery electric vehicles are leading the reinvention of the automobile and creating exciting opportunities for both SEMA-member companies and bold new OEMs," Kersting said.

The MIA-SEMA Green Racing and Performance Conference is a great opportunity for specialty-equipment business leaders, engineers, product planners, marketing and sales people to meet and connect with many of the industry's experts defining the crossroads of green racing and performance.

"We are delighted to again provide the venue for the MIA-SEMA Green Conference and to participate in the very topical themes pertaining to green racing and performance," said Jim Michaelian, President and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. "The subject matter also ties very directly into our 'Green Power Prix-View' interactive display area which will be located in our Lifestyle Expo in the Long Beach Convention Center all weekend."

Alongside many high-profile business leaders, Scott Atherton, president and CEO of American Le Mans Series, will speak on developments in the high-tech world of sports car racing in the United States. Additionally, Race Tech and Race Car magazines are already confirmed as media partners for the event.

For more information:

Jeremy Burne, MIA
Jbftauto@aol.com

John Waraniak, SEMA
Johnw@sema.org

Industry leaders including (from left) MIA's Chris Aylett, SEMA's Chris Kersting, Braille Battery's Blake Fuller and TTXGP's Azhar Hussain discuss green racing technologies at last year's "The Race Goes Green" seminar.

The Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) and SEMA will once again convene a special industry conference, April 16, 2010, at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, focused on green performance developments in the world of motorsports.

Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, the conference will bring together international leaders in green motorsports with high-performance automotive aftermarket business leaders. Delegates will share ideas and discuss ways in which the industry is developing green technologies to promote solutions for future green products for the world's car manufacturers and specialty-equipment suppliers.

The conference will be held on Friday of the race weekend, and attendees will see green racing up close during practice and qualifying sessions for two of the leading green racing series in America: American Le Mans Series and IZOD IndyCar. Conference attendees can also take informative tours of the grand prix paddock areas.

"Motorsports has already shown how green solutions can be demonstrated 'on track' and win," said MIA Chief Executive Chris Aylett. "This helps consumers realize that high performance and low carbon can work together and still be cool. It also opens up genuine new business for those in motorsports and closer relationships with mainstream auto OEMs, too."

SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting believes green performance has the potential to be one of fastest-growing segments of SEMA.

"The new generation of clean diesels, GDI, hybrid and battery electric vehicles are leading the reinvention of the automobile and creating exciting opportunities for both SEMA-member companies and bold new OEMs," Kersting said.

The MIA-SEMA Green Racing and Performance Conference is a great opportunity for specialty-equipment business leaders, engineers, product planners, marketing and sales people to meet and connect with many of the industry's experts defining the crossroads of green racing and performance.

"We are delighted to again provide the venue for the MIA-SEMA Green Conference and to participate in the very topical themes pertaining to green racing and performance," said Jim Michaelian, President and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. "The subject matter also ties very directly into our 'Green Power Prix-View' interactive display area which will be located in our Lifestyle Expo in the Long Beach Convention Center all weekend."

Alongside many high-profile business leaders, Scott Atherton, president and CEO of American Le Mans Series, will speak on developments in the high-tech world of sports car racing in the United States. Additionally, Race Tech and Race Car magazines are already confirmed as media partners for the event.

For more information:

Jeremy Burne, MIA
Jbftauto@aol.com

John Waraniak, SEMA
Johnw@sema.org

Industry leaders including (from left) MIA's Chris Aylett, SEMA's Chris Kersting, Braille Battery's Blake Fuller and TTXGP's Azhar Hussain discuss green racing technologies at last year's "The Race Goes Green" seminar.

The Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) and SEMA will once again convene a special industry conference, April 16, 2010, at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, focused on green performance developments in the world of motorsports.

Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, the conference will bring together international leaders in green motorsports with high-performance automotive aftermarket business leaders. Delegates will share ideas and discuss ways in which the industry is developing green technologies to promote solutions for future green products for the world's car manufacturers and specialty-equipment suppliers.

The conference will be held on Friday of the race weekend, and attendees will see green racing up close during practice and qualifying sessions for two of the leading green racing series in America: American Le Mans Series and IZOD IndyCar. Conference attendees can also take informative tours of the grand prix paddock areas.

"Motorsports has already shown how green solutions can be demonstrated 'on track' and win," said MIA Chief Executive Chris Aylett. "This helps consumers realize that high performance and low carbon can work together and still be cool. It also opens up genuine new business for those in motorsports and closer relationships with mainstream auto OEMs, too."

SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting believes green performance has the potential to be one of fastest-growing segments of SEMA.

"The new generation of clean diesels, GDI, hybrid and battery electric vehicles are leading the reinvention of the automobile and creating exciting opportunities for both SEMA-member companies and bold new OEMs," Kersting said.

The MIA-SEMA Green Racing and Performance Conference is a great opportunity for specialty-equipment business leaders, engineers, product planners, marketing and sales people to meet and connect with many of the industry's experts defining the crossroads of green racing and performance.

"We are delighted to again provide the venue for the MIA-SEMA Green Conference and to participate in the very topical themes pertaining to green racing and performance," said Jim Michaelian, President and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. "The subject matter also ties very directly into our 'Green Power Prix-View' interactive display area which will be located in our Lifestyle Expo in the Long Beach Convention Center all weekend."

Alongside many high-profile business leaders, Scott Atherton, president and CEO of American Le Mans Series, will speak on developments in the high-tech world of sports car racing in the United States. Additionally, Race Tech and Race Car magazines are already confirmed as media partners for the event.

For more information:

Jeremy Burne, MIA
Jbftauto@aol.com

John Waraniak, SEMA
Johnw@sema.org

Industry leaders including (from left) MIA's Chris Aylett, SEMA's Chris Kersting, Braille Battery's Blake Fuller and TTXGP's Azhar Hussain discuss green racing technologies at last year's "The Race Goes Green" seminar.

The Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) and SEMA will once again convene a special industry conference, April 16, 2010, at the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, focused on green performance developments in the world of motorsports.

Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, the conference will bring together international leaders in green motorsports with high-performance automotive aftermarket business leaders. Delegates will share ideas and discuss ways in which the industry is developing green technologies to promote solutions for future green products for the world's car manufacturers and specialty-equipment suppliers.

The conference will be held on Friday of the race weekend, and attendees will see green racing up close during practice and qualifying sessions for two of the leading green racing series in America: American Le Mans Series and IZOD IndyCar. Conference attendees can also take informative tours of the grand prix paddock areas.

"Motorsports has already shown how green solutions can be demonstrated 'on track' and win," said MIA Chief Executive Chris Aylett. "This helps consumers realize that high performance and low carbon can work together and still be cool. It also opens up genuine new business for those in motorsports and closer relationships with mainstream auto OEMs, too."

SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting believes green performance has the potential to be one of fastest-growing segments of SEMA.

"The new generation of clean diesels, GDI, hybrid and battery electric vehicles are leading the reinvention of the automobile and creating exciting opportunities for both SEMA-member companies and bold new OEMs," Kersting said.

The MIA-SEMA Green Racing and Performance Conference is a great opportunity for specialty-equipment business leaders, engineers, product planners, marketing and sales people to meet and connect with many of the industry's experts defining the crossroads of green racing and performance.

"We are delighted to again provide the venue for the MIA-SEMA Green Conference and to participate in the very topical themes pertaining to green racing and performance," said Jim Michaelian, President and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. "The subject matter also ties very directly into our 'Green Power Prix-View' interactive display area which will be located in our Lifestyle Expo in the Long Beach Convention Center all weekend."

Alongside many high-profile business leaders, Scott Atherton, president and CEO of American Le Mans Series, will speak on developments in the high-tech world of sports car racing in the United States. Additionally, Race Tech and Race Car magazines are already confirmed as media partners for the event.

For more information:

Jeremy Burne, MIA
Jbftauto@aol.com

John Waraniak, SEMA
Johnw@sema.org

Mid America Motorworks reports that its chief cheerleader, company founder Mike Yager, is currently recovering from quadruple bypass surgery. He was released from the hospital on December 28 and is recuperating at home. The employees of the company are committed to the business plans that have been set into motion for 2010 and beyond and to making Yager proud of the company that he and his family have built. The company requests that any well wishes and comments be sent to getwellmike@mamotorworks.com.

The Florida Automotive Speed Truck (FAST) Expo, produced by National Performance Warehouse, is set for this Sunday, January 10, at the Broward Convention Center in Ft. Lauderdale. According to organizers, the expo features more than 100 vendor exhibits, door prizes, industry celebrities and more. Registration for the event is available at www.fastexpo2010.com.

As a proud sponsor and supporter of Guide Dogs of America, WIZARDS Products pledged to donate $1 to the organization for every 22 oz. bottle of WIZARDS Bike Wash it sold throughout the year. During the 2009 SEMA Show, WIZARDS owner John Schlumpberger presented a check in the amount of $2,000 to Steve Cohan, outreach director for Guide Dogs of America.

Classic Instruments has added a new business to the company known as Classic Distribution. It is now the master distributor of Veethree Instrumentation. Initially, four series of Veethree-branded gauge sets will be available through Classic Distribution— Premier Black, Premier White, Amega and Genesis—all featuring domed glass lenses and polished SS bezels.

Kelley Blue Book and its www.kbb.com website recently released a list of the top 20 vehicles researched on its website in 2009. According to the company, the site received more than 180 million visits in 2009 and it has become a leading indicator of sales patterns for vehicle manufacturers. The top 20 vehicle are: 1) Honda Accord, 2) Honda Civic, 3) Toyota Camry, 4) Honda CR-V, 5) Toyota Corolla, 6) Toyota RAV4, 7) Toyota Highlander, 8) Toyota Prius, 9) Nissan Altima, 10) Honda Pilot, 11) Ford Escape, 12) Chevrolet Camaro, 13) Honda Odyssey, 14) Ford Fusion, 15) Mazda3, 16) Ford Mustang, 17) Volkswagen Jetta, 18) Toyota Sienna, 19) Lexus RX 350, 20) Chevrolet Equinox. Read the complete release and information on previous lists.

The Ohio Technical College received the 2009 MarCom Gold Award in the Overall Website category for its website, www.ohiotechnicalcollege.com. Administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals, the awards recognize outstanding creative achievement by marketing and communication professionals.

Universal Products launched a video contest that could earn $750 for one user of Blue Devil Premium Head Gasket Sealant. All participants need to do to enter the contest is film themselves installing the head gasket sealant, post the video on YouTube.com and link it to www.gouniversalproducts.com. The contest ends February 26.

 

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Mourns the Loss of Jeff Stevens

Members of the TORA were sadden to hear the news that Jeff Stevens died on December 29 of pancreatic cancer. He was 52.

Formerly employed with Advantage Truck Accessories and most recently at Safety Kleen, Stevens was laid to rest at the Oakridge Cemetery in Goshen, Indiana, on January 4.

TORA Presents Industry Awards

TORA presented the following council awards during the TORA Industry Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show.

- TORA Best New Product Under $500 (chosen from new products at the SEMA Show): Weathertech, Multifit Cargo and Trunk Liner
- TORA Best New Product Over $500 (chosen from new products at the SEMA Show): Undercover, SE Tonneau
- Ron Webster Award (chosen from new products at the SEMA Show): Bolt, One Key Lock Technology Padlock
- TORA Retailer of the Year: The Truck Outfitters
- TORA Hall of Fame: Van Woodell, Weathers Auto Supply
- TORA Chairman’s Award: Ron DiVincenzo, Cap World

For more information on TORA awards, contact Jim Skelly.

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.

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Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Presents Industry Awards

ARMO presented the following awards during the ARMO Industry Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Business of the Year: National Parts Depot
- Person of the Year: Jim Menneto, Hemmings Motor News
- Restoration Event of the Year: Fall Hershey by the Antique Automobile of America

For more information on ARMO awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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.

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Visit HRIA's website

HRIA Presents Industry Awards

HRIA presented the following awards during the HRIA Industry Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Business of the Year: Lokar Inc.
- Industry Recognition Award: Ross Ortman, Dakota Digital Inc.
- HRIA Hall of Fame Awards: Art Morrison and Jerry Kugel

For more information on HRIA awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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.

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Visit MRC's website.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available!

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost.

Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2009 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the Show.

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 at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 25, 2010. 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.

MRC Presents industry Awards

The MRC presented the following council awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- MRC Hall of Fame: Bob Cook, Bob Cook Sales
- MRC STAR (Sales Team Annual Recognition) Award: Magnaflow Performance Exhaust

For more information on MRC awards, contact Staci Bostock.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

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

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

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Visit MPMC's website.

MPMC Motorsports Marketing Seminar Big Hit

 

The MPMC-sponsored seminar, "Motorsports Marketing: How to Measure Your Return,” was a definite winner at the 2009 SEMA Show. A panel of motorsports industry experts was moderated by ESPN/NHRA announcer Alan Reinhart and answered questions on motorsports marketing options.

"MPMC is very pleased with the event," said MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd. "This came together very last minute, with little marketing effort, and we had 68 people in the room. I have to thank the panel members and Alan Reinhart for making this such a success. We’re already planning next year’s event."

The panel members were:

• Bill Holland - Holland Communications
• Karl Fredrickson - Speedway Illustrated
• Brian Wolfe - Motorsports Director Ford Motor Company
• Steve Wolcott - ProMedia/NMRA
• Jessica Forrest - NASCAR Automotive Group
• Bill Floyd - RideTech

The seminar took place on Monday, November 2, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 pm., in North Hall Convention Center meeting room N262–N264.

Media Registration Now Open for Media Trade Conference

Media attendees may register online for the 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference by visiting www.sema.org/mpmc or www.sema.org/press.

All 100 available manufacturer suites have been filled, and MPMC is looking forward to another successful event. The MPMC Media Trade Conference will be at the Radisson Suites in Covina, California, on January 19–21, 2010. For more information on the event, go to www.sema.org/mpmc.

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.

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Visit PRO's website.

PRO NovemberFest Is Huge Success

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 Council Awards

PRO presented the following awards during the 2009 SEMA Show:

• Jim Borre Lifetime Achievement Award: Ellen McKoy
• PRO Restyler of the Year: Joey Johnston, Tops and Trends (award sponsored by Insignia, Simplified Accessory Sales)
• PRO Manufacturer of the Year: Katzkin Leather Interiors Inc. (award sponsored by Grote Industries)
• Nat Danas Person of the Year: B.J. Leanse (award sponsored by Truck and Auto Customizing magazine)

For more information on PRO's awards, contact Jim Skelly.

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.

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Visit SBN's website.

Linda Vaughn received the SBN Lifetime Achievement Award during the Speed Networking Breakfast Powered by SBN at the 2009 SEMA Show.

SBN Presents Industry Awards

The SBN presented the following awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Woman of the Year Award: Laurel Dasher, Superchips Inc.
- Athena Award: Lyn St. James
- Mentor of the Year: Jason Bruce, advanced FLOW engineering
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Linda Vaughn

For more information on SBN awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Discover the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN

“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 Presents Industry Awards

SPC presented the following council awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- SPC Person of the Year Award: Michael Ferrara, DSport
- SPC Industry Icon Award: Kipp Kington, KTC Media
- SPC Business of the Year Award: Eibach Springs Inc.
- SPC Presidents Award: Shaun Carlson

For more information on SPC awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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 Presents Industry Awards

WTC presented the following council awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- WTC Lifetime Achievement Award: Dick Horasian
- WTC Hall of Fame 2009 Inductee: Dick Horasian

All past WTC Lifetime Achievement Award winners were inducted into WTC Hall of Fame established in 2009. Past recipients of the WTC Lifetime Achievement Award newly inducted into the WTC Hall of Fame are:

• Greg Weld (2008)
• Louis Senter (2007)
• John “Ed” Hill (2006)
• Frank Duca (2005)
• John Arthurs (2004)
• Joe Suddreth (2003)
• Jim Kavanaugh (2002)
• Art Hale Sr. (2001)

For more information on WTC awards, contact Jim Skelly.

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.

YEN Presents Industry Awards

YEN presented the following awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Young Executive of the Year Award: Lee McGuire, Skyjacker Suspensions
- Vanguard Award: Chris Thomson, AIRAID Filter Company

For more information on YEN awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

 

Join YEN

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 TORA's website.

TORA Mourns the Loss of Jeff Stevens

Members of the TORA were sadden to hear the news that Jeff Stevens died on December 29 of pancreatic cancer. He was 52.

Formerly employed with Advantage Truck Accessories and most recently at Safety Kleen, Stevens was laid to rest at the Oakridge Cemetery in Goshen, Indiana, on January 4.

TORA Presents Industry Awards

TORA presented the following council awards during the TORA Industry Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show.

- TORA Best New Product Under $500 (chosen from new products at the SEMA Show): Weathertech, Multifit Cargo and Trunk Liner
- TORA Best New Product Over $500 (chosen from new products at the SEMA Show): Undercover, SE Tonneau
- Ron Webster Award (chosen from new products at the SEMA Show): Bolt, One Key Lock Technology Padlock
- TORA Retailer of the Year: The Truck Outfitters
- TORA Hall of Fame: Van Woodell, Weathers Auto Supply
- TORA Chairman’s Award: Ron DiVincenzo, Cap World

For more information on TORA awards, contact Jim Skelly.

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 ARMO's website.

ARMO Presents Industry Awards

ARMO presented the following awards during the ARMO Industry Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Business of the Year: National Parts Depot
- Person of the Year: Jim Menneto, Hemmings Motor News
- Restoration Event of the Year: Fall Hershey by the Antique Automobile of America

For more information on ARMO awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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 Presents Industry Awards

HRIA presented the following awards during the HRIA Industry Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Business of the Year: Lokar Inc.
- Industry Recognition Award: Ross Ortman, Dakota Digital Inc.
- HRIA Hall of Fame Awards: Art Morrison and Jerry Kugel

For more information on HRIA awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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 MRC's website.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available!

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost.

Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2009 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the Show.

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 at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 25, 2010. 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.

MRC Presents industry Awards

The MRC presented the following council awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- MRC Hall of Fame: Bob Cook, Bob Cook Sales
- MRC STAR (Sales Team Annual Recognition) Award: Magnaflow Performance Exhaust

For more information on MRC awards, contact Staci Bostock.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

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

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

---

Visit MPMC's website.

MPMC Motorsports Marketing Seminar Big Hit

 

The MPMC-sponsored seminar, "Motorsports Marketing: How to Measure Your Return,” was a definite winner at the 2009 SEMA Show. A panel of motorsports industry experts was moderated by ESPN/NHRA announcer Alan Reinhart and answered questions on motorsports marketing options.

"MPMC is very pleased with the event," said MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd. "This came together very last minute, with little marketing effort, and we had 68 people in the room. I have to thank the panel members and Alan Reinhart for making this such a success. We’re already planning next year’s event."

The panel members were:

• Bill Holland - Holland Communications
• Karl Fredrickson - Speedway Illustrated
• Brian Wolfe - Motorsports Director Ford Motor Company
• Steve Wolcott - ProMedia/NMRA
• Jessica Forrest - NASCAR Automotive Group
• Bill Floyd - RideTech

The seminar took place on Monday, November 2, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 pm., in North Hall Convention Center meeting room N262–N264.

Media Registration Now Open for Media Trade Conference

Media attendees may register online for the 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference by visiting www.sema.org/mpmc or www.sema.org/press.

All 100 available manufacturer suites have been filled, and MPMC is looking forward to another successful event. The MPMC Media Trade Conference will be at the Radisson Suites in Covina, California, on January 19–21, 2010. For more information on the event, go to www.sema.org/mpmc.

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 PRO's website.

PRO NovemberFest Is Huge Success

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 Council Awards

PRO presented the following awards during the 2009 SEMA Show:

• Jim Borre Lifetime Achievement Award: Ellen McKoy
• PRO Restyler of the Year: Joey Johnston, Tops and Trends (award sponsored by Insignia, Simplified Accessory Sales)
• PRO Manufacturer of the Year: Katzkin Leather Interiors Inc. (award sponsored by Grote Industries)
• Nat Danas Person of the Year: B.J. Leanse (award sponsored by Truck and Auto Customizing magazine)

For more information on PRO's awards, contact Jim Skelly.

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.

Linda Vaughn received the SBN Lifetime Achievement Award during the Speed Networking Breakfast Powered by SBN at the 2009 SEMA Show.

SBN Presents Industry Awards

The SBN presented the following awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Woman of the Year Award: Laurel Dasher, Superchips Inc.
- Athena Award: Lyn St. James
- Mentor of the Year: Jason Bruce, advanced FLOW engineering
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Linda Vaughn

For more information on SBN awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Discover the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN

“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 Presents Industry Awards

SPC presented the following council awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- SPC Person of the Year Award: Michael Ferrara, DSport
- SPC Industry Icon Award: Kipp Kington, KTC Media
- SPC Business of the Year Award: Eibach Springs Inc.
- SPC Presidents Award: Shaun Carlson

For more information on SPC awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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 Presents Industry Awards

WTC presented the following council awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- WTC Lifetime Achievement Award: Dick Horasian
- WTC Hall of Fame 2009 Inductee: Dick Horasian

All past WTC Lifetime Achievement Award winners were inducted into WTC Hall of Fame established in 2009. Past recipients of the WTC Lifetime Achievement Award newly inducted into the WTC Hall of Fame are:

• Greg Weld (2008)
• Louis Senter (2007)
• John “Ed” Hill (2006)
• Frank Duca (2005)
• John Arthurs (2004)
• Joe Suddreth (2003)
• Jim Kavanaugh (2002)
• Art Hale Sr. (2001)

For more information on WTC awards, contact Jim Skelly.

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.

YEN Presents Industry Awards

YEN presented the following awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Young Executive of the Year Award: Lee McGuire, Skyjacker Suspensions
- Vanguard Award: Chris Thomson, AIRAID Filter Company

For more information on YEN awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

 

Join YEN

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 TORA's website.

TORA Mourns the Loss of Jeff Stevens

Members of the TORA were sadden to hear the news that Jeff Stevens died on December 29 of pancreatic cancer. He was 52.

Formerly employed with Advantage Truck Accessories and most recently at Safety Kleen, Stevens was laid to rest at the Oakridge Cemetery in Goshen, Indiana, on January 4.

TORA Presents Industry Awards

TORA presented the following council awards during the TORA Industry Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show.

- TORA Best New Product Under $500 (chosen from new products at the SEMA Show): Weathertech, Multifit Cargo and Trunk Liner
- TORA Best New Product Over $500 (chosen from new products at the SEMA Show): Undercover, SE Tonneau
- Ron Webster Award (chosen from new products at the SEMA Show): Bolt, One Key Lock Technology Padlock
- TORA Retailer of the Year: The Truck Outfitters
- TORA Hall of Fame: Van Woodell, Weathers Auto Supply
- TORA Chairman’s Award: Ron DiVincenzo, Cap World

For more information on TORA awards, contact Jim Skelly.

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 ARMO's website.

ARMO Presents Industry Awards

ARMO presented the following awards during the ARMO Industry Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Business of the Year: National Parts Depot
- Person of the Year: Jim Menneto, Hemmings Motor News
- Restoration Event of the Year: Fall Hershey by the Antique Automobile of America

For more information on ARMO awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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 Presents Industry Awards

HRIA presented the following awards during the HRIA Industry Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Business of the Year: Lokar Inc.
- Industry Recognition Award: Ross Ortman, Dakota Digital Inc.
- HRIA Hall of Fame Awards: Art Morrison and Jerry Kugel

For more information on HRIA awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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 MRC's website.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available!

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost.

Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2009 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the Show.

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 at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 25, 2010. 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.

MRC Presents industry Awards

The MRC presented the following council awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- MRC Hall of Fame: Bob Cook, Bob Cook Sales
- MRC STAR (Sales Team Annual Recognition) Award: Magnaflow Performance Exhaust

For more information on MRC awards, contact Staci Bostock.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

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

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

---

Visit MPMC's website.

MPMC Motorsports Marketing Seminar Big Hit

 

The MPMC-sponsored seminar, "Motorsports Marketing: How to Measure Your Return,” was a definite winner at the 2009 SEMA Show. A panel of motorsports industry experts was moderated by ESPN/NHRA announcer Alan Reinhart and answered questions on motorsports marketing options.

"MPMC is very pleased with the event," said MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd. "This came together very last minute, with little marketing effort, and we had 68 people in the room. I have to thank the panel members and Alan Reinhart for making this such a success. We’re already planning next year’s event."

The panel members were:

• Bill Holland - Holland Communications
• Karl Fredrickson - Speedway Illustrated
• Brian Wolfe - Motorsports Director Ford Motor Company
• Steve Wolcott - ProMedia/NMRA
• Jessica Forrest - NASCAR Automotive Group
• Bill Floyd - RideTech

The seminar took place on Monday, November 2, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 pm., in North Hall Convention Center meeting room N262–N264.

Media Registration Now Open for Media Trade Conference

Media attendees may register online for the 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference by visiting www.sema.org/mpmc or www.sema.org/press.

All 100 available manufacturer suites have been filled, and MPMC is looking forward to another successful event. The MPMC Media Trade Conference will be at the Radisson Suites in Covina, California, on January 19–21, 2010. For more information on the event, go to www.sema.org/mpmc.

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 PRO's website.

PRO NovemberFest Is Huge Success

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 Council Awards

PRO presented the following awards during the 2009 SEMA Show:

• Jim Borre Lifetime Achievement Award: Ellen McKoy
• PRO Restyler of the Year: Joey Johnston, Tops and Trends (award sponsored by Insignia, Simplified Accessory Sales)
• PRO Manufacturer of the Year: Katzkin Leather Interiors Inc. (award sponsored by Grote Industries)
• Nat Danas Person of the Year: B.J. Leanse (award sponsored by Truck and Auto Customizing magazine)

For more information on PRO's awards, contact Jim Skelly.

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.

Linda Vaughn received the SBN Lifetime Achievement Award during the Speed Networking Breakfast Powered by SBN at the 2009 SEMA Show.

SBN Presents Industry Awards

The SBN presented the following awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Woman of the Year Award: Laurel Dasher, Superchips Inc.
- Athena Award: Lyn St. James
- Mentor of the Year: Jason Bruce, advanced FLOW engineering
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Linda Vaughn

For more information on SBN awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

Discover the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN

“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 Presents Industry Awards

SPC presented the following council awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- SPC Person of the Year Award: Michael Ferrara, DSport
- SPC Industry Icon Award: Kipp Kington, KTC Media
- SPC Business of the Year Award: Eibach Springs Inc.
- SPC Presidents Award: Shaun Carlson

For more information on SPC awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

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 Presents Industry Awards

WTC presented the following council awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- WTC Lifetime Achievement Award: Dick Horasian
- WTC Hall of Fame 2009 Inductee: Dick Horasian

All past WTC Lifetime Achievement Award winners were inducted into WTC Hall of Fame established in 2009. Past recipients of the WTC Lifetime Achievement Award newly inducted into the WTC Hall of Fame are:

• Greg Weld (2008)
• Louis Senter (2007)
• John “Ed” Hill (2006)
• Frank Duca (2005)
• John Arthurs (2004)
• Joe Suddreth (2003)
• Jim Kavanaugh (2002)
• Art Hale Sr. (2001)

For more information on WTC awards, contact Jim Skelly.

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.

YEN Presents Industry Awards

YEN presented the following awards during the 2009 SEMA Show.

- Young Executive of the Year Award: Lee McGuire, Skyjacker Suspensions
- Vanguard Award: Chris Thomson, AIRAID Filter Company

For more information on YEN awards, contact Nathan Ridnouer.

 

Join YEN

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.