Rob Morse has joined the team at AutoRep Sales Company as OEM sales division captain. Morse is responsible for all facets of business at the OEM level, as well a direct performance account responsibilities in the Michigan and Ohio regions.

Mike Clark

Mike Clark was promoted to vice president of operations for ConvExx, an independent show management company, headquartered in Las Vegas. Clark, whose background includes operations management in information technology and hospitality, has been at ConvExx for four years.

DuPont Performance Coatings named Steve Aitken and Steve Trapp to two key positions within the company’s newly formed DuPont Performance Services. A 23-year veteran of DuPont, Aitken was named collision services sales manager and will manage DuPont Performance Coatings’ growing staff of business development managers. Trapp, who was named collision services development manager, will lead course development activity and develop performance group content and consulting materials. He will also coordinate DuPont Executive Facilitators, a team of experts responsible for course instruction.

Chris Duke of MOTORZ TV

Duke Networks LLC, producer of the DIY automotive show “MOTORZ TV”, announced that MOTORZ TV Host and Executive Producer Chris Duke was chosen by eBay Motors and CarDomain Network to exclusively host and perform parts installations on vehicles live near the Ford Motor Company booth during the 2009 SEMA Show. Duke and his MOTORZ TV crew will perform installations live daily (November 3–5), in addition to coaching enthusiasts (winners of the eBay 2009 Motors Master Contest) through live installations of their own. Duke Networks will also stream live video coverage of the event to its MOTORZ TV website, www.motorz.tv.

Longtime Federated member Lafayette Warehouse recently celebrated its 80th Anniversary by holding a customer appreciation event. More than 300 customers attended the anniversary celebration with several prizes being awarded. Lafayette has three locations in Indiana: Lafayette Auto Supply in Lafayette, Kokomo Auto Supply in Kokomo, and Northwest Indiana Auto Supply in Merrillville.

Subaru of America Inc. renewed its commitment to Montgomery College by pledging an additional $75,000 over the next five years for student scholarship support. Montgomery College’s Automotive Technology Program and Subaru have had a successful partnership for more than 15 years, producing hundreds of highly-trained automotive technicians. Subaru has also been a generous donor establishing the Subaru of America Endowed Scholarship for automotive technology students in 1993.

C.R. Laurence of Europe Ltd.

C.R. Laurence of Europe Ltd. expanded its European operations with the construction of a new headquarters, including office and warehouse, at Rochdale’s Kingsway Business Park. The groundbreaking for the 71,000-sq.-ft. facility is set for October 26.

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. launched of FitFotos, a new section of www.pioneerelectronics.com that highlights installations of car electronics by authorized Pioneer retailers. FitFotos enable dealers to showcase their professional installation capabilities while simultaneously helping consumers visualize the fit of Pioneer products in their vehicles. FitFotos builds upon the success of Mobile Electronics Live (MEL), Pioneer’s online portal for dealers that offers exclusive product information, video training and technical support.

Ford's update to the Edge CUV has it looking badder and bolder for the 2011 model year, if these shots from Brenda Priddy's spy photographers are any indication.

"Underneath the camouflage, we can see two bars running across the grill that look more truck-like than the current model," Priddy notes. She adds that other sightings have shown a chrome ring running around the entire grille opening, with the whole assembly looking not unlike the Super Duty face. New projector headlights and a lower fascia also resemble the 2010 Fusion Sport.

In back, the Edge will get new, chrome-ringed taillights and possibly a new bumper. A large piece of camouflage draped over the entire dash suggests the interior may also get a refresh. Priddy adds that the Edge and its Lincoln MKX linemate will get the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that Ford recently announced. The automaker says the boosted powerplant is good for 230 hp and 240 lb.-ft. torque.

Photos copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without copyright holder's consent is prohibited.

Ford's update to the Edge CUV has it looking badder and bolder for the 2011 model year, if these shots from Brenda Priddy's spy photographers are any indication.

"Underneath the camouflage, we can see two bars running across the grill that look more truck-like than the current model," Priddy notes. She adds that other sightings have shown a chrome ring running around the entire grille opening, with the whole assembly looking not unlike the Super Duty face. New projector headlights and a lower fascia also resemble the 2010 Fusion Sport.

In back, the Edge will get new, chrome-ringed taillights and possibly a new bumper. A large piece of camouflage draped over the entire dash suggests the interior may also get a refresh. Priddy adds that the Edge and its Lincoln MKX linemate will get the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that Ford recently announced. The automaker says the boosted powerplant is good for 230 hp and 240 lb.-ft. torque.

Photos copyright Brenda Priddy & Company. Reuse or reproduction without copyright holder's consent is prohibited.

-BDS Suspension (Booth #30207)
Offering a Cabela's gift card for orders of $750 dollars or more placed at the Show. Earn up to $150 in gift cards.

-CN Racing-USA (Booth #21052)
10 percent discount for new dealers on their first stocking order, no minimum.

-Applied Coatings International (Booth #12112)
20 percent off orders on new FLX-Paint film product line placed at the Show.

-Digital Performance, Inc. (Booth #21123)

• 20 percent off CPM advertising run before December 31, 2009 in StreetPerformance.com.
• 15 percent off regular rates for a three-month minimum advertising commitment in StreetPerformance.com.

Offers include bonus advertising in RaceIndustry.com, DirtDirectory.com and 2WheelPerformance.com.

-Global Performance Parts (Booth #20457)
Visit for details on the high-performance stimulus package program.

-Truck Covers USA (Booth #32179)
Order two or more covers and receive $100 off each based on our top dealer pricing! You will also receive a free Wonder Auto Cloth with each cover ordered. The special pricing is good for the American Roll Cover, American Work Cover and the new American X-Box.

-Seat Comfort Systems (Booth #11102)
20 seat heaters will be given away to 20 lucky buyers that stop by. There will also be two grand prize drawings on Friday, one for 10 carbon heaters, and one for 10 wire element heaters.

-Kleinn Air Horns (Booth #10219)
10 pecent free goods on freight qualifying order.

George Lathouris has been chosen chair-elect fort he Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA) and will succeed Kelly Kneifl when the latter's term expires. Lathouris is currently the senior category manager for Keystone Automotive's wheel and tire division and has spent the past 31 years in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

Lathouris began his career working in a warehouse for American Speed Equipment on Long Island, New York, and worked his way to the position of national sales and advertising manager. He opened warehouse distribution in Colorado for Dick Cepek in 1992 and became the company's purchasing manager in Los Angeles in 1994. He then moved back to the East Coast in 1995 and became the Eastern regional sales manager for Deflecta Shield and, eventually, Lund Industries. He took a position as national satellite sales and national sales manager for Keystone Automotive in 1999, which led to his current position.

Lathouris was approached several years was approached several years ago by Ron DiVincenzo and Charley Holden to get involved with TORA, since lifted trucks and Jeeps had long been his passion in the business. He has served the TORA for the past four years and is proud to have been selected as the council's chair-elect. SEMA Member News recently spoke to him about his goals for the coming term.

George Lathouris has been chosen chair-elect fort he Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA) and will succeed Kelly Kneifl when the latter's term expires. Lathouris is currently the senior category manager for Keystone Automotive's wheel and tire division and has spent the past 31 years in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

Lathouris began his career working in a warehouse for American Speed Equipment on Long Island, New York, and worked his way to the position of national sales and advertising manager. He opened warehouse distribution in Colorado for Dick Cepek in 1992 and became the company's purchasing manager in Los Angeles in 1994. He then moved back to the East Coast in 1995 and became the Eastern regional sales manager for Deflecta Shield and, eventually, Lund Industries. He took a position as national satellite sales and national sales manager for Keystone Automotive in 1999, which led to his current position.

Lathouris was approached several years was approached several years ago by Ron DiVincenzo and Charley Holden to get involved with TORA, since lifted trucks and Jeeps had long been his passion in the business. He has served the TORA for the past four years and is proud to have been selected as the council's chair-elect. SEMA Member News recently spoke to him about his goals for the coming term.

George Lathouris has been chosen chair-elect fort he Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA) and will succeed Kelly Kneifl when the latter's term expires. Lathouris is currently the senior category manager for Keystone Automotive's wheel and tire division and has spent the past 31 years in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.

Lathouris began his career working in a warehouse for American Speed Equipment on Long Island, New York, and worked his way to the position of national sales and advertising manager. He opened warehouse distribution in Colorado for Dick Cepek in 1992 and became the company's purchasing manager in Los Angeles in 1994. He then moved back to the East Coast in 1995 and became the Eastern regional sales manager for Deflecta Shield and, eventually, Lund Industries. He took a position as national satellite sales and national sales manager for Keystone Automotive in 1999, which led to his current position.

Lathouris was approached several years was approached several years ago by Ron DiVincenzo and Charley Holden to get involved with TORA, since lifted trucks and Jeeps had long been his passion in the business. He has served the TORA for the past four years and is proud to have been selected as the council's chair-elect. SEMA Member News recently spoke to him about his goals for the coming term.

Visit YEN's website.

YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting Date and Location Change

YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting: Monday, November 2, 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, Rooms N219–220

YEN Party Goes Pool Side—Annual Reception Moves to the Renaissance Hotel

YEN will make a splash with their annual reception at the SEMA Show. To be held at the Renaissance Hotel Pool on Tuesday, November 3 from
5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., the event will provide a fun, relaxing atmosphere to network with others within the industry.

“The YEN Reception has become a must-attend event at the SEMA Show,” said YEN Chairman Gregory Parker. “As with all YEN events, the reception will provide a great opportunity for members to network and establish valuable industry contacts. We invite all current YEN members, as well as anyone interested in learning more, to support YEN and attend.”

In addition, recipients of the 2009 Young Executive of the Year and Vanguard Awards will be announced at the reception.

The YEN Young Executive of the Year Award is presented to an individual who has had a positive impact on the industry. The recipient of the award must be a member of YEN and have demonstrated exceptional service, integrity, professional growth and business ethics throughout the last 12 months. The YEN Vanguard Award is presented to an individual, business, organization or sanctioning body that has influenced the professional growth, and/or cultivation of talent for young executives through its actions, mentoring, visions and/or contributions for the past, present and future.

YEN Reception

5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Renaissance Hotel Pool

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 September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Jason Tolleson.

Visit ARMO's website.

Valuable Seminar Available Online

If you missed the ARMO-sponsored seminar, "10 Things You Can Do to Your Website Today to Improve Your Results Tomorrow," at the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show, you can view the presentation online.

Sponsorship Opportunities

The largest gathering of ARMO-member companies happens each year during the SEMA Show. This year, the ARMO Reception is Tuesday, November 3, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., at the Las Vegas Hilton, Ballroom C. Sponsorship opportunities include prominent logo placement, premium seating and complimentary drink tickets. They range in price from $500–$5,000. Check out the form for additional details.

ARMO Industry Awards Reception

5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

ARMO Open Council Meeting

7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton, CR 1–3.

ARMO Roundtable

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center, room N238.

Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

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

Visit HRIA's website.

HRIA Industry Awards Reception

5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton, BR A–B.

HRIA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton, CR 1–2.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

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

Visit TORA's website.

TORA Collects Award Nominations, Announces Sponsorship Opportunities

TORA is seeking nominations for Retailer of the Year Award and the TORA Hall of Fame Award. Nomination forms and award criteria are available at www.sema.org/TORA. Both awards are presented at the annual TORA Industry Awards Reception, Wednesday, November 4, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., in the Renaissance Hotel, Ballroom 2.

Interested in getting your company name in front of the largest gathering of light-truck accessory industry representatives? TORA Industry Reception sponsorship packages range from $250–$1,000. Deliverables and details are available on the sponsorship form, available on the TORA website, or by contacting SEMA/TORA liaison Jim Skelly at 909/396-0289 ext. 103 or jimsk@sema.org.

New Location for TORA Industry Reception

TORA has moved its reception at the 2009 SEMA Show to the Renaissance Hotel, near the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Previous TORA receptions have been held in the Las Vegas Hilton, adjacent to the North Hall, and because the council exhibits in the South Hall, this has typically meant a long trek for attendees. Entrance to the Renaissance Hotel is directly adjacent to the South Hall entrance. The reception is scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, 5:30 p.m.—7:30 p.m., Ballroom 2. Council representatives are planning updated activities to go along with the new venue.

TORA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center, room S226.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MPMC's website.

MPMC Hosts Motorsports Marketing Seminar at SEMA Show

The MPMC will sponsor and host a seminar on Monday, November 2, during the SEMA Show entitled, "Motorsports Marketing: How to Measure Your Return." Money is too precious to throw away on a hunch. Learn how to measure a return on your investment in motorsports marketing by listening to a diverse panel of motorsports veterans, each providing a unique perspective on the subject of Marketing in Motorsports.

Moderated by MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd of RideTech, the panel of experts includes:

• Bill Holland - Holland Communications
• Karl Fredrickson - Speedway Illustrated
• Morgan Lucas - Lucas Oil and Top Fuel Driver
• Brian Wolfe - Motorsports Director Ford Motor Company
• Steve Wolcott - ProMedia/NMRA

As of press time, the MPMC Select Committee is finalizing a representative from NASCAR to round out the panel.

The seminar (Monday, November 2) is set for 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, meeting rooms N262–N264.

Media Trade Conference Moves to New Location

The upcoming MPMC Media Trade Conference is moving to the recently renovated Radisson Suites Hotel in Covina, California. Located about 15 minutes from the Ontario Airport in Southern California, the new location features easy freeway access and is near many local attractions, including the Fairplex in Pomona and the NHRA Museum. All rooms have been refurbished to include top amenities, such as complimentary wireless Internet access, microwaves, refrigerators and flat screen televisions. Media Trade Conference participants will also enjoy fine dining via the onsite restaurant, Hamilton Steakhouse, as well as a low room rate.

"We're looking forward to hosting a fantastic Media Trade Conference at the Radisson in Covina," said MPMC Chairman Bill Floyd of RideTech. "This annual event has become an essential activity for hundreds of media representatives and for our council members. The convenience of the hotel, along with the amenities and low rates, will ensure that the event continues to be a great success, and allow us to accomplish even more than ever before."

Details about the Radisson in Covina, California, are available at www.radisson.com/covinaca. The MPMC Media Trade Conference is a three-day event where manufacturers and media take part in prescheduled, private, sit-down meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer meet with editorial staff from so many news outlets, and nowhere else can the media gather so much technical and new product information at one time.

Additional details about the 2010 MPMC Media Trade Conference, taking place Tuesday–Thursday, January 19–21, 2009, are available at www.sema.org/mpmc-media-trade-conference.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit MRC's website.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

SEMA and the MRC invite you and a guest to witness the induction of its newest member into the MRC Hall of Fame and the presentation of the prestigious STAR Award.

MRC will host the annual General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel, Pavilion 11, on Sunday, November 1, 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. The special guest speaker is Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of MANA.

Hurry! Seating is limited. Please take a moment and contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 ext. 104 or via e-mail: stacib@sema.org by Monday, October 26.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

MRC will hold its membership meeting and awards ceremony on Sunday, November 1, 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MRC's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

Visit PRO's website.

Inaugural PRO Reception at the 2009 SEMA Show

PRO invites all industry professionals to attend its first NovemberFest reception to meet and network with OEM restylers, manufacturers, industry media and others on Tuesday, November 3, 5:30 p.m.—7:30 p.m., in the Las Vegas Hilton, Ballroom D.

“This is the first-ever PRO reception in Las Vegas and we’re determined to set the bar high and host an event our members and other industry guests will find beneficial,” said PRO Council Chairman Karl Stearns. “The restyling industry is strong right now and there are many exciting opportunities, so we encourage everyone to make plans to attend NovemberFest.”

Attendees need not be members of PRO or SEMA to be a part of this inaugural event, but SEMA representatives will be present for those interested in joining onsite. SEMA membership offers benefits such as additional networking events, education regarding new resources, sales ideas and techniques and valuable industry insight.

PRO will host an open bar and hors d’oeuvres thanks to donations from event sponsors Advantage Truck Accessories, Insignia Group, Restyler’s Choice, Katzkin, ICI and Classic Design Concepts. All attendees will receive commemorative T-shirts from Eagle Enterprises.

The council will also honor leading restyling companies and individuals at Novemberfest, including winners of the following awards: PRO Restyler of the Year sponsored by Insignia Group, PRO Manufacturer of the Year sponsored by Grote Lighting, the Jim Borre Lifetime Achievement Award and the Nat Danas Person of the Year Award sponsored by Truck & Auto Customizing magazine.

Also of interest to companies in the restyling industry is the PRO Open Meeting on Thursday, November 5, 2009, from 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m. in the Las Vegas Convention Center meeting rooms N219–N222. PRO is dedicated to addressing the challenges facing the restyling segment of the automotive aftermarket and to developing effective strategies for dealing with industry-specific issues.

Jim Borre Award Sponsorship Still Available

Interested in getting your company name in front of the largest gathering of Restyling representatives at the Show? How about sponsoring the PRO Jim Borre Lifetime Achievement Award? For details contact Jim Skelly at SEMA, 909/396-0289 ext 103 or jimsk@sema.org.

PRO Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton, CR 1–2

PRO Industry Reception

5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton, Ballroom D

PRO General Membership Meeting

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center, rooms N219–N222

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

Visit SBN's website.

SBN Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton, CR 1–2

SEMA Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton, Ballroom A

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 September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

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

Visit SPC's website.

SPC Reception at the SEMA Show

After a day on the SEMA Show floor, join the industry at the SPC reception and enjoy a relaxed lounge atmosphere. The SPC reception is set for Wednesday, November 4, 5:00–7:00 p.m., at the Las Vegas Hilton, Palvilion 6. For more information, contact Jason Tolleson.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Jason Tolleson.

Visit WTC's website.

WTC Collects Award Nominations, Announces Sponsorship Opportunities

WTC is asking for nominations for their Person of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Awards. Nomination forms and award criteria are available at www.sema.org/wtc.

Both awards are presented at the annual WTC Industry Awards Reception, held on Wednesday November 4 from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. in the Renaissance Hotel, Copa Rooms. Interested in getting your company name in front of the largest gathering of wheel and tire industry representatives at the Show? WTC Industry Reception sponsorship packages range from $250 to $1,000.

Deliverables and details are available on the sponsorship form, available on the WTC website, or by contacting the SEMA/WTC liaison Jim Skelly at 909/396-0289 ext. 103 or at jimsk@sema.org.

New Location for WTC Reception

WTC has moved its reception at the 2009 SEMA Show to the Renaissance Hotel, near the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Previous WTC receptions have been held in the Las Vegas Hilton, adjacent to the North Hall, and because the council exhibits in the South Hall, this has typically meant a long trek for attendees. Entrance to the Renaissance Hotel is directly adjacent to the South Hall entrance.

The reception is set for Wednesday, November 4, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Council representatives are planning updated activities to go along with the new venue.

WTC Open Meeting

1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center, S233

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Jim Skelly.