Nat Danas, founder and publisher of Auto Trim & Restyling News, passed away at the age of 89.

Nat Danas, founder and publisher of Auto Trim & Restyling News passed away Monday, May 21. He was 89. Danas' knowledge and experience in the restyling industry spans more than 60 years, and he was known by many as a trendsetter, technical expert and teacher. 

He began his career in the restyling industry in his early 20s through a small trim shop that he owned and operated in New York City in the '40s and '50s. In 1952, Danas founded/published Auto Trim News magazine, which is recognized as the oldest publication serving the restyling, restoration and trim industries. 

Throughout his career, Danas was dedicated to education and training, and he served as a mentor to many restylers nationwide. He organized and produced a series of regional trade-only shows, was a frequent presenter and speaker for technical and business-management-related topics, founded the National Association for Auto Trim Shops, and created the Craftsman of the Year award that recognized restylers who practiced the concepts of adhering to best business practices and supported a voluntary code of ethics for work quality.

"Nat was more than someone who simply published a magazine for the trim and restyling industry. He was not only responsible for bringing the industry together and making it a significant force within the specialty automotive market, he was totally dedicated to sharing his knowledge and wisdom," said Ellen McKoy, owner of EMK Marketing. "Throughout his life, he mentored countless people throughout the industry. I was fortunate to have worked with Nat as his editor, and we remained close friends for more than 35 years. He was a shining light and an inspiration, and the impact he had on me personally and the restyling industry was profound."

A long-time SEMA member until his retirement, Danas not only was instrumental in Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) becoming a then-SEMA committee, but he also served multiple terms on the council's select committee and was the first person to receive the PRO Lifetime Achievement Award. A few years ago, in honor of Danas, PRO named one of its awards in his honor—the Nat Danas Person of the Year.

 

The team at Brenda Priddy & Co. did not expect to see an update this early, but here are some of the latest shots of the freshened version of the Mercedes E-Class.

Interior changes and engine updates are not currently available, but the pictures highlight visible modifications to the exterior; Priddy points out the new headlights that will mimic the next-generation C-Class. A slightly modified grille, hood and bumper will complete the changes up front and new taillights and a freshened bumper around back.    

The team is expecting the updated Mercedes E-Class to officially debut within the next year.

Brenda Priddy & Co.

The team at Brenda Priddy & Co. did not expect to see an update this early, but here are some of the latest shots of the freshened version of the Mercedes E-Class.

Interior changes and engine updates are not currently available, but the pictures highlight visible modifications to the exterior; Priddy points out the new headlights that will mimic the next-generation C-Class. A slightly modified grille, hood and bumper will complete the changes up front and new taillights and a freshened bumper around back.    

The team is expecting the updated Mercedes E-Class to officially debut within the next year.

Brenda Priddy & Co.

	The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show will go live and be available on www.SEMAShow.com beginning Friday, May 25.

With five months to go before the opening of the 2012 SEMA Show, more than 1,800 exhibitors are selecting their spots for the world's premier specialty automotive trade Show through the Priority Space Selection process, beginning May 30.

A few days before the Priority Space Selection process, the floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show will go live and be available on the SEMA Show website, www.SEMAShow.com, beginning Friday, May 25.

Compared to the same time period last year, exhibitors are committing to the Show earlier, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show's net square footage. Among the sections contributing to the growth include the Wheels & Accessories section with a 68% increase of exhibitors, the Tools & Equipment section with a 35% exhibitor increase, and the Racing & Performance section with a 16% increase.

"It's encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show," said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. "One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors."  

Other floor sections at the SEMA Show are Business Services, Collision Repair & Refinish, Global Tire Expo Powered by TIA, Hot Rod Alley, Mobile Electronics & Technology, Powersports & Utility Vehicles, Restoration Marketplace, Restyling & Car Care Accessories, and Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road.

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the "Buy A Booth" link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come, first-served basis subject to availability.

The Priority Space Selection process runs from May 30 through June 22. Details about the 2012 SEMA Show, including information on how to attend and exhibit, are available at www.SEMAShow.com.

	The floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show will go live and be available on www.SEMAShow.com beginning Friday, May 25.

With five months to go before the opening of the 2012 SEMA Show, more than 1,800 exhibitors are selecting their spots for the world's premier specialty automotive trade Show through the Priority Space Selection process, beginning May 30.

A few days before the Priority Space Selection process, the floorplan for the 2012 SEMA Show will go live and be available on the SEMA Show website, www.SEMAShow.com, beginning Friday, May 25.

Compared to the same time period last year, exhibitors are committing to the Show earlier, yielding a 12% increase in total number of exhibitors, as well as a 13% increase in the Show's net square footage. Among the sections contributing to the growth include the Wheels & Accessories section with a 68% increase of exhibitors, the Tools & Equipment section with a 35% exhibitor increase, and the Racing & Performance section with a 16% increase.

"It's encouraging to have so many exhibitors supporting the Show earlier, and it points to the value that these companies see in the SEMA Show," said Peter MacGillivray, SEMA vice president of events and communications. "One of the accommodations we have made for the increase of exhibitor activity is a new and improved Show floorplan, which will include additional features to make it easier for buyers to locate and connect with exhibitors."  

Other floor sections at the SEMA Show are Business Services, Collision Repair & Refinish, Global Tire Expo Powered by TIA, Hot Rod Alley, Mobile Electronics & Technology, Powersports & Utility Vehicles, Restoration Marketplace, Restyling & Car Care Accessories, and Trucks, SUVs & Off-Road.

Companies that would like to exhibit at the 2012 SEMA Show can still secure booth space through the "Buy A Booth" link located at www.SEMAShow.com. Companies signing up now will be able to select space on a first-come, first-served basis subject to availability.

The Priority Space Selection process runs from May 30 through June 22. Details about the 2012 SEMA Show, including information on how to attend and exhibit, are available at www.SEMAShow.com.

The photo gallery located at www.semaphotos.com features thousands of pictures of products featured in the Show's New Products Showcase, vehicles on display and exhibiting companies from the 2011 SEMA Show. Each week in SEMA eNews, a new collection of vehicle photos is highlighted. In the spotlight this week are vehicles from Scion.

In addition to the vehicle photos, the product photos also include key details, such as product name, a brief description and exhibitor contact information.

The photo gallery located at www.semaphotos.com features thousands of pictures of products featured in the Show's New Products Showcase, vehicles on display and exhibiting companies from the 2011 SEMA Show. Each week in SEMA eNews, a new collection of vehicle photos is highlighted. In the spotlight this week are vehicles from Scion.

In addition to the vehicle photos, the product photos also include key details, such as product name, a brief description and exhibitor contact information.

Voting is now open to help select the final concept for the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. From today to June 3, 2012, the public is invited to visit www.automobilemag.com, www.HotRod.com, www.mustangmonthly.com or www.MuscleMustangFastFords.com to view three different design concepts and vote on the one they would like to see used for the build. Voters will be entered into drawings to win several prizes.

Announced earlier this week, the SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women is a collaboration between Ford Motor Co. and SEMA. Led by the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), a 2013 Mustang GT donated by Ford will be completely modified utilizing the winning design from start to finish by women.

Beginning with three concepts developed by female designers and concluding with women volunteers performing the hands-on modifications, the project is meant to shine the light on females working in the automotive aftermarket and encourage more women to pursue careers in the industry.

High Gear

Designed by SBN Member Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co.

High Gear—a luxury Mustang concept—is inspired by international products in categories such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture. Designed to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power, the results are fresh and exciting, propelling Mustang into a whole new arena. Some of the highlights include Rosegold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior, satin black body and plush quilted suede seats with a leather-wrapped interior. 

Chromatic

Designed by SBN Member Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co.

The ultimate pop-culture edition Mustang. Taking a futuristic new design approach, this Mustang draws inspiration from elements in pop culture, such as street art and products, for an exciting color palate that is free of all boundaries and disciplines. The anthracite-colored chrome body as a base exemplifies the neon colors, bringing this mustang to life. Design details include: Anthracite-colored chrome exterior, bright cyan wheels, white leather racing interior, coupled with an aggressive track suspension and V8 roar.

Fast Metal


Designed by SBN Member Theresa Contreras from L&G Enterprises

Taking this American musclecar to a whole other level, Theresa uses tone-on-tone dark metallic finishes and red accents for a dramatic design that underscores Mustang’s raw DNA, speed and power.

Source Interlink Media (SIM), a partner in the project, posted the three concepts on several of its websites so the public can vote for the ultimate design. The concept with the most votes will be used for the build, which will take place at the SIM Headquarters in El Segundo, California.

“Women play a significant role when it comes to customizing a vehicle,” said Bryan Harrison, Sr. manager of councils for SEMA and project manager on the build. “From purchasing the vehicle and determining what modifications to make, to executing the actual modifications and driving the customized vehicle, women are key players in the entire process. The SEMA Mustang Build demonstrates just how integral women are to customizing today’s cars and trucks.”

The completed vehicle will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. The modified Mustang will then be auctioned off on eBay, with money raised to benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders and innovators by awarding cash scholarships to winning applicants.

To learn more about the SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women, visit www.automobilemag.com, www.HotRod.com, www.mustangmonthly.com or www.MuscleMustangFastFords.com or contact Bryan Harrison at bryanh@sema.org or 909-978-6691.

Voting is now open to help select the final concept for the first-ever SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women. From today to June 3, 2012, the public is invited to visit www.automobilemag.com, www.HotRod.com, www.mustangmonthly.com or www.MuscleMustangFastFords.com to view three different design concepts and vote on the one they would like to see used for the build. Voters will be entered into drawings to win several prizes.

Announced earlier this week, the SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women is a collaboration between Ford Motor Co. and SEMA. Led by the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), a 2013 Mustang GT donated by Ford will be completely modified utilizing the winning design from start to finish by women.

Beginning with three concepts developed by female designers and concluding with women volunteers performing the hands-on modifications, the project is meant to shine the light on females working in the automotive aftermarket and encourage more women to pursue careers in the industry.

High Gear

Designed by SBN Member Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co.

High Gear—a luxury Mustang concept—is inspired by international products in categories such as jewelry, couture clothing and architecture. Designed to stimulate the senses by fusing luxury and power, the results are fresh and exciting, propelling Mustang into a whole new arena. Some of the highlights include Rosegold chrome accents throughout the exterior and interior, satin black body and plush quilted suede seats with a leather-wrapped interior. 

Chromatic

Designed by SBN Member Jennifer Seely of Ford Motor Co.

The ultimate pop-culture edition Mustang. Taking a futuristic new design approach, this Mustang draws inspiration from elements in pop culture, such as street art and products, for an exciting color palate that is free of all boundaries and disciplines. The anthracite-colored chrome body as a base exemplifies the neon colors, bringing this mustang to life. Design details include: Anthracite-colored chrome exterior, bright cyan wheels, white leather racing interior, coupled with an aggressive track suspension and V8 roar.

Fast Metal


Designed by SBN Member Theresa Contreras from L&G Enterprises

Taking this American musclecar to a whole other level, Theresa uses tone-on-tone dark metallic finishes and red accents for a dramatic design that underscores Mustang’s raw DNA, speed and power.

Source Interlink Media (SIM), a partner in the project, posted the three concepts on several of its websites so the public can vote for the ultimate design. The concept with the most votes will be used for the build, which will take place at the SIM Headquarters in El Segundo, California.

“Women play a significant role when it comes to customizing a vehicle,” said Bryan Harrison, Sr. manager of councils for SEMA and project manager on the build. “From purchasing the vehicle and determining what modifications to make, to executing the actual modifications and driving the customized vehicle, women are key players in the entire process. The SEMA Mustang Build demonstrates just how integral women are to customizing today’s cars and trucks.”

The completed vehicle will debut at the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. The modified Mustang will then be auctioned off on eBay, with money raised to benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders and innovators by awarding cash scholarships to winning applicants.

To learn more about the SEMA Mustang Build Powered by Women, visit www.automobilemag.com, www.HotRod.com, www.mustangmonthly.com or www.MuscleMustangFastFords.com or contact Bryan Harrison at bryanh@sema.org or 909-978-6691.

	Linda Vaughn

Foundation to Host Linda Vaughn Roast
The Quarter Mile Foundation has unveiled plans to pay tribute to the “First Lady of Motorsports,” Linda Vaughn. The roast will be hosted at the “Sports Barn” facility at the Lucas family estate in Carmel, Indiana, Wednesday, August 29, preceding the NHRA’s Mac Tools U.S. Nationals at the Lucas Oil Raceway in Indianapolis (August 29–September 3, 2012). The evening’s schedule will include cocktails at 6:00 p.m., dinner at 7:00 p.m., followed by the evening’s festivities beginning at 8:00 p.m.

The event will feature “roasters” from across the wide range of the North American motorsports community—drag racing, IndyCar, NASCAR—as well as the automakers and performance aftermarket companies commenting on Vaughn’s life and times and her contributions and impact upon motorsports and the performance aftermarket for the past 50-plus years. To date, the confirmed “roasters” will include Joe Amato, John Force, Don Garlits, Bob Glidden, Don Prudhomme and Jack “Doc” Watson, with NHRA event announcer, Bob Frey serving as the master of ceremonies. Other names will be added shortly.

In addition to the “Roast,” an auction of donated items from friends in the aftermarket, drag racing, IndyCar and NASCAR will be held with seating for up to 350. Tickets will be available online at the Quarter Mile Foundation website beginning June 1, 2012. The VIP/sponsor tables will be available for $2,000/table (seats 8). Non-VIP tables can be sponsored for $1,500 per table. Individual seats can be purchased for $100 each. Sponsors will receive several marketing bonuses, which will be announced shortly.

As with the Don Garlits “Rat Roast” held in Pomona, California, the event will be filmed and the DVD will be made available for purchase to the public. Proceeds will benefit both Linda Vaughn and the Quarter Mile Foundation in its quest to capture the first-person stories of drag racing’s pioneers beginning in the late ’40s through the ’80s; plus the motorsports aftermarket which was spawned from their efforts.

	Jet-Hot Coatings is sponsoring the Autocross events at Chevy High Performance Nationals, June 1–3, 2012, at Atlanta Dragway.

Jet-Hot Backs Chevy High Performance Nationals Autocross Extravaganza
Jet-Hot Coatings is sponsoring the Autocross events at Chevy High Performance Nationals, June 1–3, 2012, at Atlanta Dragway located in Commerce, Georgia. An autocross event challenges a driver’s dexterity and skills as he or she competes against the clock. Also pushed hard is a vehicle’s steering and braking systems as well as durability.

The Jet-Hot Autocross course will be set up in the pit area in order to accommodate a technically challenging course. Atlanta Dragway is well versed in hosting an autocross event as it has done so on many occasions since opening in 1975. The facility is home to the NHRA Southern Nationals—one of the most popular stops on the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing tour. There are seven distinct categories for your GM vehicle to fit—Modern Muscle (’93–present), Street Machine (’73–’92), Muscle Machine (’55–’72), Street Rod (’54–older), Truck (any vehicle registered as a truck regardless of year), Turn and Burn, and Pro.

There will be more than 30 awards given away to the participants, including each category champion. Competitors and fans can get up close and personal with leading Pro Touring cars and drivers as they compete in the magazine shootout. Visit www.CHPNationals.com for more information on the Jet-Hot Autocross and other festivities.

	Rookie driver Geoffrey Cooley piloted the No. 22 Alumi Craft/Competitive Metals Pro Buggy to a second-place finish last Sunday at the Speedworld Off Road Park in Surprise, Arizona.

Rookie Driver Geoffrey Cooley Remains Hot in Arizona
Rookie driver Geoffrey Cooley, 17, continues to be a front runner and championship contender in his first season of the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series Pro Buggy Class. Piloting the No. 22 Alumi Craft/Competitive Metals Pro Buggy, Cooley drove to the podium for the third straight time this season, coming just one step away from a win. Rounds 5 and 6 of the series took place last Saturday and Sunday at the Speedworld Off Road Park in Surprise, Arizona.

Cooley started the event by qualifying ninth on Friday with a time of 1:00.196, which was 0.514 seconds off the fast-time qualifier. The high school senior was challenged by the track conditions and seemed to have run out of speed for his streak of podium finishes. But he was able to overcome and adapt to pull off a sixth-place finish on Saturday and move one step closer to a win on Sunday, where he finished second to veteran racer Doug Fortin.

Nick Tyree finished in seventh place in last Sunday's round six.

Nick Tyree Grabs Best Series Finish; Cracks Top Five
With his family-operated independent team, Nick Tyree and Tyree Motorsports continue to make gains against some of the best off-road racers in the world. Tyree qualified 15th and improved upon his speed all last weekend. In Saturday's race, Tyree battled his way up into the top five in off-road short-course racing. Tyree was running down series multi-time champion Carl Renezeder for a podium position, but ran out of laps and had to settle for a career best finish of fourth.

In Sunday's round six, Tyree remained strong with even faster lap times than Saturday's race. With a few laps remaining, Tyree was in seventh place. He dove inside two trucks and made a pass that moved him into the top five. At the same time elsewhere on the track an incident brought out the red flag and all the trucks were reverted back to the previous completed lap, meaning Tyree had to return to the seventh-place spot. With only one lap remaining, Tyree battled for the top five but fell just short to finish seventh.