Fri, 11/01/2019 - 13:19

SEMA News—November 2019

INDUSTRY NEWS

By Fredy Ramirez

Mobile App
The 2019 SEMA Show mobile app can be downloaded at no cost from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store or www.SEMAShow.com/app.

2019 SEMA Show Mobile App Available Now

The official 2019 SEMA Show mobile app is now available for download. The free app gives Showgoers access to a comprehensive list of all exhibiting companies, seminars, events and more so that users can create a personalized plan and maximize their time at the SEMA Show.

Some of the features of the 2019 SEMA Show mobile app include:

  • Turn-by-Turn Directions: Find the quickest route from one place to another without the need of GPS.
  • My Schedule: Create a schedule to keep track of the events you wish to attend.
  • New Products Showcase: View all of the products entered into the New Products Showcase and directions to the exhibitors’ booths on the Show floor.
  • Product Scanner: Use your smartphone as a scanner at the New Products Showcase to create a list and map of the scanned products.
  • Maps: View floorplans of all SEMA Show halls.
Jessi Combs
Born into a racing family, Jessi Combs launched an accomplished career immediately after graduating from WyoTech in 2004 with a degree in custom automotive fabrication.

Racing Legend, TV Personality Jessi Combs Dies During Attempt to Break Own Land-Speed Record

Jessi Combs, 39, was killed on August 27, 2019, in Oregon’s Alvord desert while attempting to break her own land-speed record.

Born into a racing family, Combs launched an accomplished career immediately after graduating from WyoTech in 2004 with a degree in custom automotive fabrication. In the ensuing years she earned fame as a champion driver, master fabricator, TV personality, brand ambassador, public speaker and racing legend.

Combs was a strong SEMA supporter and volunteer. Since 2016, she regularly co-emceed the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, held during the SEMA Show.

Combs regularly competed in off-road racing events, including Ultra4’s King of the Hammers in 2010, 2012 and 2013, and taking home a spec class win in 2014 as the first female to ever place at any Ultra4 event. In 2018, she placed first in the stock class. In 2011, she took home a Class 10 podium finish in the Baja 1000.

Blue Man Group
For information on attending the banquet and purchasing tickets to see the Blue Man Group, visit www.SEMAShow.com/banquet.

SEMA Show Awards Banquet to Feature Blue Man Group

The SEMA Show Industry Awards Banquet is one of the week’s most anticipated events, as aftermarket professionals gather to honor some of the industry’s most accomplished members. This year’s attendees have another reason for excitement—namely, the Blue Man Group, this year’s banquet headliners.

Not only will the Blue Man Group headline the banquet’s main act, but they will pop up at various points throughout the evening to entertain dinner attendees.

The Industry Awards Reception & Banquet takes place Wednesday, November 7, in the Garden Patio and Paradise Event Center at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. For information on attending the banquet and purchasing tickets, visit www.SEMAShow.com/banquet.

Jay Leno
Jay Leno will be a special guest at the New Products Awards Breakfast, to be held Tuesday, November 5, at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.

Jay Leno to Appear at the SEMA New Products Breakfast

As part of the 2019 SEMA Show opening-day kick-off, Jay Leno will appear as a special guest at the New Products Awards Breakfast on Tuesday, November 5, at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. The annual awards recognize the most innovative new aftermarket products that will be for sale in 2019.

Each of the 16 award categories has one winner and two runners-up. Winners are selected based on a variety of factors, such as superiority of innovation, technical achievement, quality and workmanship, consumer appeal and marketability and more.

Tickets to the New Products Breakfast are free and available online when attendees register for their SEMA Show badge.

New Product entries by SEMA- and TIA-member companies that are checked-in before 10:00 a.m., Monday, November 4, will be included in the competition. Award winners will also be recognized at the annual SEMA Industry Awards Banquet on the evening of Thursday, November 7.

Fri, 11/01/2019 - 13:17

SEMA News—November 2019

EVENTS

Business After Hours

SEMA Council and Network Receptions to Broaden Your Connections

By Ellen McKoy

Council and Network Mix and mingle with industry icons, leaders and friends at the Westgate Resort & Casino Pool Deck as PRO celebrates the growth and progress of the restyling industry during its awards reception.

The bulk of the action at the SEMA Show may occur on the exhibit floor, but there are also a host of after-hours SEMA council and network receptions to attend that connect clients and colleagues and celebrate the achievements of industry leaders in a relaxed, collegial atmosphere. Here’s a brief guide to this year’s activities.

ARMO Reception

Gather with members of the Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) on Tuesday, November 5, for an evening of camaraderie and celebration. Billed as the premier event in the automotive restoration industry, the annual ARMO Awards Reception will kick off at 5:15 p.m. at the Westgate Resort & Casino, Conference Rooms 7–14. All ARMO members are invited to attend and enjoy dinner, beverages 
and networking.

During the awards presentation, the council will recognize the contributions of individuals and companies in the restoration segment, with awards presented to the winners of the 2019 ARMO Person of the Year and the ARMO Business of the Year. The new-product award winners from the ARMO Hot Products Showcase will also be recognized.

Mark your calendar for this must-attend event. Register at www.sema.org/armoevents.

PRO Reception

Soak up the Vegas vibe at the liveliest party in town: the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Industry Awards Reception, set for 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 5, at the Westgate Resort & Casino pool deck. Mix and mingle with industry icons, leaders and friends as PRO celebrates another successful year in high style.

Enjoy music, hot hors d’oeuvres, beverages and conversation in a relaxing moonlight setting. Celebrate the growth and progress of the restyling industry during the awards reception as PRO tips its hat to top performers in four categories: Restyler of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the 
Year, and the Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement recipient.

All members are invited to attend the PRO networking event of the year. Register at www.sema.org/proevents.

TORA
The iconic Pinewood Derby Races will once again take place at the annual TORA Reception. Enjoy beverages and appetizers under the stars, while networking with industry colleagues and friends.

TORA Reception

Calling all truck and off-road professionals! You’re invited to attend the annual Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Reception, hosted by TORA. The fun-filled event is set to take place at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6, in front of the South Hall in Silver Lot 3.

Unwind after a busy day at the Show. Enjoy beverages and appetizers under the stars while networking with industry colleagues and friends, and join in honoring leading companies and individuals during the awards presentation.

The iconic Pinewood Derby Races will once again take place at the reception this year. Sponsor a vehicle by donating to SEMA Cares Children’s Charities and cheer as your derby car competes. Register to attend the event at www.sema.org/toraevents.

WTC
Enjoy connecting with industry professionals and catching up with friends over food and beverages as WTC marks another successful year of serving the wheel and tire segment.

WTC Reception

Join the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) and hundreds of wheel and tire industry members for an evening of celebration and networking in a relaxed atmosphere by the Renaissance Hotel pool, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 5. Enjoy connecting with industry professionals and catching up with friends over food and beverages as WTC marks another successful year of serving the wheel and tire segment.

Talk about what’s happening in the industry, and exchange special moments and must-see attractions from this year’s SEMA Show. Join in honoring a wheel and tire industry pioneer who will be inducted into the WTC Hall of Fame during the awards presentation. Learn how you can get involved in WTC.

Register for the event at www.sema.org/wtcevents.

HRIA Reception

Join the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) as members get together for a lively evening of networking, appetizers, beverages and celebration of individuals and companies that have contributed to the progress of the hot-rod industry. The much-anticipated event is slated for 5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 6, at the Westgate Paradise Center.

Mix and mingle with industry friends in a relaxed environment. Grab a drink, a plate of snacks and settle in at a table to watch the show. TV personality Tim Strange will emcee this year’s event as industry leaders are awarded and recognized for their outstanding achievements. Six of the year’s outstanding hot-rod builds will be in front of the stage, 
providing the perfect atmosphere for one of the most anticipated hot-rod industry events of the year.

Register for the event at 
www.sema.org/hriaevents.

YEN
Join YEN during their highly anticipated networking opportunity amongst the industry’s young professionals while they honor one leading professional as Young Executive of the Year.

YEN Reception

The Young Executives Network (YEN) is hosting its popular annual awards reception. The dynamic event is an outstanding networking opportunity and is highly anticipated among the industry’s young professionals. Enjoy connecting with other young professionals over food, drinks and conversation on Tuesday, November 5, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. at the Westgate Paradise Event Center.

YEN select committee members will be on hand to talk about opportunities to get more involved in the network’s initiatives. The event also will honor top young professionals for their outstanding accomplishments within the industry. During the reception, YEN will name one leading professional as Young Executive of the Year and celebrate an individual who actively supports young people in the industry with the YEN Vanguard award. This is one event you don’t want to miss.

Register for the event at www.sema.org/yenevents.

SBN Reception

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) invites you to attend an evening of celebration and networking. The annual SBN Reception will be held from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6, at the Westgate Resort & Casino, Ballrooms D–E. And there’s no better way to close out the second day of the Show than by mingling with fellow women of the industry while enjoying finger foods 
and beverages.

SBN select committee members will circulate throughout the evening, networking with current members as well as with other women interested in learning more about SBN. The committee members are great resources for any questions about the network and can explain how and why to get more involved.

Register to attend the event at 
www.sema.org/sbnevents.

Fri, 11/01/2019 - 12:25

SEMA News—November 2019

EVENTS

Finding Food During the SEMA Show

Some 60+ Options to Choose From

By Fredy Ramirez

Food
The Members Lounge is a great option for lunch. Hot meals are available for purchase daily only in the North Hall Lounge from 11:30 a.m.–2:00 p.m, and Grab ’N’ Go beverages and sandwiches can be purchased during Show hours in both lounges.

Grabbing a good meal during the SEMA Show is important to maintaining the energy you need for a successful Show, and luckily, there are plenty of food options. The trick is to find something that fits the amount of time allotted for you to eat.

SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso puts it this way: “We know that your time at the Show is valuable, so we’ve worked closely with Centerplate and concessions companies all year long to provide food options that are high quality, reasonably priced, and can be picked up in an efficient manner.”

The Show offers a variety of concessions to choose from. Each part of the Las Vegas Convention Center offers its own selection. Outlined in the next couple of pages are your options and where they are located.

Member Lounges

One option for lunch is visiting the SEMA Members Lounge. Members Lounge–North is in Upper North Hall Room N251 and Members Lounge–South is at the east end of the Lower South Hall Lobby, Booth #46000. Both are exclusively for SEMA, SEMA Hall of Fame, Tire Industry Association and Society of Collision Repair Specialists members only. Members can sit down and enjoy a hot meal at the Members Lounge–North. Grab ’N’ Go lunches are available during Show hours Tuesday–Friday in both lounges. Both locations offer a place for a quick break, charging stations for phones and laptops and a professional atmosphere. The lounges make great rendezvous points and have private rooms available for meetings. Reserve yours in advance by visiting www.SEMAShow.com/mlmeetings.

Exhibitor Lunch and Appreciation Reception Monday

During setup days, SEMA staff will be handing out coupons to exhibitors for sandwich lunches. The process is simple: All you need to do is present your exhibitor badge and redeem your coupon at the nearest meal station to receive a sandwich and a bottle of water. The lunches are available November 4–5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Exhibitors also won’t want to miss out on the Exhibitor Appreciation Reception on Monday night, November 4, at 5:00 p.m. Located just outside of Central Hall on Silver Drive, it’s a great time to get to know other exhibitors, enjoy live music and good food, and recharge for opening day the next morning. Best of all, it includes an exclusive preview of some of the most exciting vehicles you’ll see in this year’s Show.

Concessions Map

On-Site Food Options

For the following food options, reference the map above.

Blue Lot

Big Daddy’s BBQ Food Truck
American BBQ, Mexican food, hot dogs, etc.

Big Daddy’s Taco Food Truck
Tacos, chips, parfaits

50 Shades Food Truck
Organic, Burgers, Salads, Vegetarian

Sin City Pizza Food Truck
Pizza Etc.

Bronze Lot

Carefree Catering Food Truck
Tacos

Five Spot Coffee Cart (two locations)
Coffee, espresso, tea, quick bites

Central Hall

Ben & Jerry’s
Ice cream, cones, shakes, salads, parfaits

Brookwood Farms BBQ
American BBQ, sandwiches

Buy The Slice Pizza & Sandwiches
Pizza, hot dogs, deli sandwiches, etc.

Capriotti’s Cart
Six-inch submarine sandwiches, snacks

Market Fresh Express
Grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, assorted snacks

Quizno’s
Sandwiches, etc.

Sabrett’s Hot Dogs
All-beef hot-dogs, chili cheese dogs, etc.

7th Heaven Kosher Cart
Kosher food, hot dogs, salmon, salads, etc.

Wetzel’s Pretzels
Pretzels by Wetzel’s

Concourse

3150 Snacks To-Go

Honey Salt
Farm to table gourmet breakfast and lunch

Lucky’s Restaurant
Burgers, Sandwiches, Salads Etc

Prima Stampa
Fast pressed paninis, etc.

Starbucks North
Coffee and espresso drinks

Walla Pao Express
Asian-American fusion meals to go

Grand Plaza and Central Plaza

Big Daddy’s BBQ 1
American BBQ, Mexican food, hot dogs, etc.

Five Spot Coffee Cart
Coffee, espresso, tea, quick bites

Sabrett’s Hot Dog Cart (two locations)
All-beef hot-dogs, chili cheese dogs, etc.

North Hall

East Ocean Stand
Chinese food

Five Spot Coffee Cart
Coffee, espresso, tea, quick bites

Fremont Grill Stand
American food, burgers, etc.

Mobile Vendor

Vegas Street Eats North
Fast food

North Road

Burgerfest Food Truck
Hamburgers, etc.

5 Spot Coffee Cart
Coffee, espresso, tea, quick bites

Tacofest Food Truck
Mexican food, tacos, burritos, etc.

Truk-N-Yaki Food Truck
Japanese BBQ plates

Orange Lot

Big Daddy’s BBQ 4
American BBQ, Mexican food, hot dogs, etc.

Platinum/Green Lots

Carefree Catering Food Truck
Tacos, Etc.

Silver Lot 1–3

Addonis Cart
Gyros, falafel, baklava, etc.

Big Daddy’s BBQ 3
American BBQ, Mexican food, hot dogs, etc.

Quizno’s Cart
Sandwiches, etc.

Skybridge

Ben & Jerry’s
Ice cream, cones, shakes, salads, parfaits

Five Spot Coffee Cart
Coffee, espresso, tea, quick bites

Mobile Vender

South Hall

Aces Restaurant
High-end food court

Butcher’s Block Stand
American BBQ, sandwiches, salads

Capriotti’s
Six-inch submarine sandwiches, snacks

Five Spot Coffee Cart
Coffee, espresso, tea, quick bites

Gourmet Grill Stand
Burgers and beyond

Jose’s Taco Tijuana
Mexican food, combos, chips and salsa

Mobile Vender

Namaste Indian Stand
Chicken tikka, gulab jamun, tandoori, combos

Sabroso Stand
Pizza, BBQ sandwiches, parfaits

SEMA Members Lounge–South
Grab ’N’ Go meals, charging stations (members only)

Vegas Street Eats South
Fast food

South Plaza

Curbside Café Food Truck
BBQ bacon burgers, Hawaiian burgers, etc.

Freshfest Food Truck
Lobster rolls, salads, shrimp po’boys, etc.

Sabrett’s Hot Dog Cart
All-beef hot-dogs, chili cheese dogs, etc.

Sausagefest Food Truck
Breakfast burritos, variety sausage, chorizo fries, etc.

Banquets and Receptions

Special events are a great way to combine a meal or cocktail with productive networking and learning. All of the events below will have something edible available and offer a host of different learning and networking opportunities.

New Products Breakfast
Tuesday, November 5
7:30 a.m.
Westgate Paradise Event Center

Student Networking Lunch
Tuesday, November 5
11:30 a.m.
Paradise Event Center

TORA Happy Hour
Tuesday, November 5
4:00 p.m.
TORA Booth #34185

New Products Happy Hour
Tuesday–Thursday, November 5–7
4:00 p.m.
S219–S228

WTC Reception
Tuesday, November 5
5:00 p.m.
Renaissance Pool

ARMO Reception
Tuesday, November 5
5:00 p.m.

Westgate CR 7–14

YEN Reception
Tuesday, November 5
5:00 p.m.

Paradise Event Center

PRO Reception
Tuesday, November 5
Westgate Pool Deck

Breakfast with ARMO
Wednesday, November 6
7:30am
Westgate Conference Rooms 7–9

NHRA Breakfast
Wednesday, November 6
7:30 a.m.
Westgate Paradise Event Center

International Happy Hour
Wednesday, November 6
5:00 p.m.
N255-N261

HRIA Reception
Wednesday, November 6
5:15 p.m.
Westgate Paradise Event Center

PRO Booth Happy Hour
Wednesday, November 6
4:00 p.m.
PRO Booth #13113

WTC Coffee and Conversation
Thursday, November 7
7:30 a.m.
Inside Lower South 1

SEMA Industry Awards Banquet
Thursday, November 7
6:00 p.m.
Westgate Paradise Event Center

Fri, 11/01/2019 - 11:11

SEMA News—November 2019

NEW PRODUCTS

By SEMA Editors

Product & Catalog Showcase

Download the complete November SEMA News Products & Catalog Showcase

Aldan American

’63–’87 Chevrolet C10 Coilover conversion kits are now available from Aldan American.

Made in the U.S.A., Aldan C10 front coilover conversions include everything you need to fully convert your front factory suspension to adjustable coilover shocks and springs with POL tubular control arms.

C10 coilover conversions from Aldan include single- or double-adjustable shocks and allow 1–2 in. of lowering plus spindle drop. Improve your classic truck’s stance and handling performance today.

310-834-7478
PN 300141 shown.
www.aldanamerican.com

Aldan

AMP Research
AMP Research AXIS CrossRail Bed System

The new AXIS CrossRail system features the convenience of crossbars for your truck bed when you need it and the flexibility to store on your bedrails when you don’t. The adjustable crossbar attachment points offer multiple locking locations, and the crossbar profile has three attachment tracks, providing accessory mounting on three faces for maximum functionality and versatility.

www.amp-research.com

AMP Research

AMP Research
AMP Research Powerstep Smart Series

The new Powerstep Smart Series is the latest innovation to bring more control for the electric-powered running board right to your fingertips. Enjoy the in-app flexibility (IOS and Android) to override your steps to stay up or down and power off or on the integrated LED light system. A new step profile has also been developed to complement and flow with the chiseled design of new body-style trucks and Jeeps.

www.amp-research.com

AMP

Atturo Tires
Trail Blade MTS (Sport Series)

The first tire in Atturo’s new Trail Blade Sport series, the MTS is an extension of the popular Trail Blade M/T. Built for superior traction, the MTS features a pattern borrowing from Atturo’s short-course racing teams, with grooves, sipes and a four-lug design. Intimidating sidewalls include a tread block modeled after Quartermaster’s OTR-5 karambit knife. The size range extends to 24-in. rims with many unique sizes for modern aftermarket applications. Learn more at www.atturo.com.

www.atturo.com

Atturo

Badass Workbench

Badass Workbench is a family-owned manufacturer located in Kearney, Nebraska. We take pride in delivering the highest-quality workbenches and welding tables on the market today. All of our products are built right here in the U.S.A. So whether you are looking for your first workbench or your last, you can be confident this IS the last workbench you will ever need to buy! Our lifetime warranty proves it.

www.badassworkbench.us

Badass Workbench

AVS (Auto Ventshade)
Ahead of the Curve

Auto Ventshade invented the Ventshade—a device originally mounted above automobile windows to keep the rain out and let the fresh air in–which gave rise to the invention of Ventvisor and the side window deflector category. Auto Ventshade is a U.S. manufacturer of aftermarket and OE automotive accessories. Known for providing style, protection and comfort, Auto Ventshade manufactures other high-quality automotive accessories, including the Bugflector II and Aeroskin hood protection, light covers, moonroof deflectors and more.

www.autoventshade.com

Ahead of the Curve

AVS (Auto Ventshade)
AVS LightShield Color-Match

The only color-matched hood protector that offers amber LED marker lights for the edge of your hood! The light bar consists of 5 LED marker lights and is powered by connecting into the vehicle’s parking lights for a seamless integration. This is the hood protector to choose for peace-of-mind protection and a dramatic distinctive look. Colors are OE color-code matched and will include blacks, whites and grays for top-selling trucks.

www.autoventshade.com

AVS

Blair Equipment
Extended Reach Cutters Make Through Holes Fast, in Pipe or Tubing

Blair introduces the Rotabroach Extended Reach Cutters for cutting holes fast. The cutters provide depths of up to 1/4 in. and are ideal for sheetmetal, tube and pipe, plate fabrications and electrical installations or applications where extended reach is required, even through holes in pipe and tubing. They are available individually in 3/8-, 7/16-, 1/2- and 9/16-in. diameters or in a convenient kit. Made in the U.S.A.

www.blairequipment.com

Blair Equipment

Billet Connection

ClearView Filtration’s Billet Oil Filter Assemblies allow the user to see the condition of the oil, also allows visual inspection of filtered particles in seconds without leaking, unbolting or loosening any fasteners or fittings and without the loss of oil from the system. Helps determine if the particles are normal or from engine components excessively wearing.

More info at www.clearviewfiltration.com or call 509-467-7584.

www.clearviewfiltration.com

Billet Connection

Biocide Systems
Auto Shocker and Bio-Shocker CLO2 Odor Eliminators

Whether you are dealing with cigarette, pet, vomit, urine, rotten food, fish or even gasoline, Auto Shocker will get rid of any and all tough odors permanently! Guaranteed or your money back! Auto Shocker’s technology is not a masking agent and can penetrate areas beyond the surface where other products can’t.
The Bio-Shocker product line is nontoxic, 100% biodegradable and does not leave any carbon footprint. Made in the U.S.A.

See us at booth #12323 in the North Hall.
www.biocidesystems.com

Biocide Systems

Download the complete November SEMA News Products & Catalog Showcase

Fri, 11/01/2019 - 11:01

SEMA News—November 2019

PEOPLE

A Message From Tim Martin

SEMA Chairman of the Board

Tim Martin

It is my pleasure to welcome more than 160,000 exhibitors, attendees and enthusiasts to the 2019 SEMA Show. This week-long event in Las Vegas celebrates the innovation, creativity and excitement of the automotive aftermarket. Thousands of exhibitors display an incredible array of products and technology. Amazing custom cars, modified trucks and unique displays showcase emerging trends and new business opportunities.

The SEMA Show is something special. It provides a glimpse into what captivates the minds and hearts of millions of automotive enthusiasts. The Show also reveals the aftermarket products and technology that enable innovative design, improved performance, enhanced vehicle functionality and high-quality vehicle restoration. It is a great place to learn about new products and discover things that can transform an automotive business.

I hope that you are able to experience all aspects of the SEMA Show. It is the culmination of millions of hours of design, development, manufacturing and other preparations by our exhibitors, builders, staff and suppliers. The New Products Showcase highlights many innovative new products, but there are thousands of other things to see and do across all of the exhibit spaces. Plan a full week to get the most from the Show.

We also gather at the SEMA Show to renew friendships, build new relationships, discuss common challenges, identify new opportunities and recognize the best in the business. This direct face-to-face interaction is the most valuable aspect of the Show. Check the SEMA Show schedule to take advantage of the many education sessions, networking receptions, awards programs and other events within the Show. Add the SEMA Show app to your phone now to have easy access to information when you need it.

We appreciate all of the people involved in making the SEMA Show the focal point of the automotive aftermarket industry. This great event depends on the participation of enthusiastic buyers and media and the hard work of our member manufacturers, distributors, retailers, installers, vehicle builders, marketers, service providers, suppliers and staff. We know that your time is valuable, and we hope that the 2019 SEMA Show exceeds your expectations and leads to a great year in 2020.

Thanks for your time, and please let us know where we can improve.

Tim Martin

Tim Martin

SEMA Chairman of the Board

 

Fri, 11/01/2019 - 10:54

SEMA News—November 2018

PEOPLE

A Message From Roy Littlefield

TIA Executive Vice President

Roy Littlefield

On behalf of the Tire Industry Association (TIA), welcome to the 2019 Global Tire Expo (GTE)—Powered by TIA, in the exciting city of Las Vegas. GTE is the section of the SEMA Show devoted to tires and wheels. As you surely know because you are here, the SEMA Show is the place to be if you love cars, enjoy working on them and like giving them a different personality. The SEMA Show is an automotive feast for those with a passion for restyling their vehicles.

You may not have thought about it this way, but for all the exciting ways you can modify a vehicle and enhance its performance, the one component all vehicles must have is tires. No matter how unique your vehicle is, it will not perform to its capability unless it is fitted with the proper pneumatic tires.

The right tires take the technology and sophisticated mechanics found in today’s vehicles and make them all work—allowing the vehicle to stay adhered to the road when cornering and accelerating, to stop gradually or rapidly as the brakes are applied, and to perform effectively on whatever surface they are riding, whether that be snow and ice, mud, gravel, wet or blazing-hot pavement. Tires do all that modestly, day in and day out, with little fanfare or appreciation. They are, in my opinion, the unspoken heroes of the motorcar.

Global Tire Expo

That’s what GTE at the SEMA Show is all about. It’s about the latest and greatest in tires. It’s about new technology and equipment. It’s about better ways of selling and servicing tires. It’s about learning new ideas and sharing best business practices with others in the same profession as you.

You can experience that and more at the tire company and tire-related supplier booths at GTE in the SEMA Show’s South Hall. I encourage you to visit the exhibitors in the GTE section and listen as company employees show off their newest products and talk about how they can improve performance, enhance sales and impact tire shop efficiency.

Beyond the new products and technology displayed at GTE and the SEMA Show, there’s also the important aspect of professionalism and training. TIA is a leader in tire safety and has raised the bar on tire-service professionalism over the years with its respected certified training programs that have trained tens of thousands of tire-servicing professionals and counting.

GTE attendees can get a taste of what TIA offers in terms of training and education by attending the eight timely educational sessions the association has planned for this year’s Show. Topics include how to assure proper tire and wheel retention, the pros and cons of heavy truck tire-changing machines, the future impact of hybrid and electric vehicles on the tire business and tire dealers, tire-pressure monitoring system sensor reprogramming and successful tire dealers sharing their secrets.

In addition to training and education, TIA plays an important role in legislation and government advocacy on issues impacting tire dealers and the tire industry. To learn more, I invite you to join me for TIA’s 2019 Legislative Review session, scheduled for Wednesday, November 6, from 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. in Room S106–S107 in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Every year, there’s more to see and do at GTE and the SEMA Show. Whether you are a tire dealer, a tire manufacturer, a tire supplier or an auto enthusiast, I encourage you to find a few minutes during the busy week to stop by TIA booth #40066–40067 in the South Hall to meet our team and learn more about what TIA has to offer. See you at the Show!

 

Sincerely,

Roy Littlefield

Roy

CEO

Tire Industry Association

Fri, 11/01/2019 - 10:37

SEMA News—November 2019

EVENTS

SEMA Show Transportation Guide

Options for Getting To and From the Convention Center

Monorail
The Las Vegas Monorail is great for those staying at a hotel near a station. Trains run every seven minutes throughout the day and stop right in front of the LVCC.

Stations:

  • MGM Grand Station
  • Bally’s/Paris Station
  • Flamingo/Caesars Palace Station
  • Harrah’s/The LINQ Station
  • Las Vegas Convention Center Station
  • Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino Station
  • SLS Station

Look for Monorail kiosks throughout the Convention Center and at participating hotels. For more information, visit
https://tix.lvmonorail.com/SEMA2019 or call 702-699-8200.

Discounted Ride Passes:

  • Single Ride: $5
  • 24-Hour Pass: $13
  • Two-Day Pass: $23
  • Three-Day Pass: $25
  • Four-Day Pass: $32
  • Five-Day Pass: $38
  • Seven-Day Pass: $49
Shuttle
The Las Vegas Monorail is great for those staying at a hotel near a station. Trains run every seven minutes throughout the day and stop right in front of the LVCC.

Hotel Shuttles

Complimentary shuttle bus service is provided each morning and afternoon between the LVCC and official hotels, plus SEMA-to-AAPEX service throughout the day between the LVCC and the Sands Expo Center.

Stops are at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, North Hall Door 10 and the east end of the Performance Pavilion every 20–30 minutes on all Show days.

Hotel shuttles will carry an average of 55 passengers and will be marked with a route number. The route numbers and pickup locations at each hotel are noted on the “Shuttle Bus Pickup Locations” chart in the November issue of SEMA News on p. 406.

For shuttle service to Wynn/Encore, use the SEMA-to-AAPEX Shuttle.

Hours of Operation:

SEMA Show to Hotels

  • Tuesday–Thursday: 3:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 2:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

Hotels to SEMA Show

  • Tuesday–Friday: 7:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.

SEMA-to-AAPEX Shuttle

Complimentary shuttles are available every 5–10 minutes to the AAPEX Show at the Sands Expo Center. Pickup/drop-off locations are at the east end of the Performance Pavilion and North Hall Door 10.

Hours of Operation:

  • Tuesday–Thursday: 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 7:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. (no midday service)

SEMA Show Loop

The SEMA Show Loop is available to transport Showgoers from one side of the LVCC to the other. Shuttles run every 15 minutes and stop at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, North Hall Door 10, east end of the South Hall and east end of the Performance Pavilion. These will be 25-passenger mini buses marked “SEMA Show Loop.”

Hours of Operation:

  • Saturday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
  • Sunday: 8:00 a.m.–9:30 p.m.
  • Monday: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday–Thursday: 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
  • Friday: 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Ride-Sharing

Designated drop-off/pick-up locations will be available on the east end of the Performance Pavilion and in the Blue Lot on the east end of the Grand Lobby (adjacent to the Central Hall) for Showgoers using Uber or Lyft to get to and from the LVCC.

Tip: Identify where the Uber and Lyft pick-up/drop-off locations are before ordering your ride. Many hotels have designated lots as well.

Taxis and Limousines

There are two SEMA Show designated drop-off and pick-up areas. These transportation hubs are located on the east side of the Performance Pavilion and in the Blue Lot on the east end of the Grand Lobby. For more information, call the Nevada Taxicab Authority Dispatch at 702-668-4005.

Tip: When getting dropped off, tell your driver which taxi stop you want based on where you are headed. Registration, for example, is closest to the North Taxi Stop.

Strip and DowntownExpress (SDX)

Las Vegas public bus service runs from downtown Las Vegas to the LVCC, and to the Strip. Service includes 18 stops between the LV Premium Outlets in downtown, to the City Parkway, to the LVCC, to the Fashion Show Mall/Bellagio/Excalibur/Mandalay Bay and to South Strip Transfer Terminal.

For more detailed information, visit www.rtcsnv.com or call the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada at 702-228-7433.

Hours of Operation:

  • Daily: 9:00 a.m.–12:30 a.m., approximately every 15 minutes. Service starts at 7:00 a.m. on days with major conventions at the LVCC.

Airport Shuttle

Shuttle service to McCarran International Airport will run every 30 minutes Thursday and Friday. The airport shuttles will pick up at North Hall Door 10 and the east end of the Performance Pavilion.

The price is $10 per person (cash only); pay at the bus. For questions, call TMS at 866-439-8563.

Hours of Operation:

  • Thursday: 7:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

SEMA Show On-Site Parking

Limited LVCC parking is available for $10 daily on Show days with in/out privileges. Parking is available in the Platinum Lot. There will be no parking in the Platinum Lot Thursday, November 7, and Friday, November 8. Visit www.SEMAShow.com/ground-transportation for more information.

Platinum Lot: Monday–Wednesday, 937 East Desert Inn Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89109

SEMA Show Off-Site Parking

  • CCD Lot (305 Convention Center Dr.): $20
  • Piero’s Restaurant (355 Convention Center Dr.): $50
  • Marriott (325 Convention Center Dr.): $40
  • Courtyard Inn (3275 Paradise Rd.): $40
  • Westgate Hotel (3000 Paradise Rd.): $30
  • Springhill Suites (2989 Paradise Rd.): $40
  • Renaissance (3400 Paradise Rd.): $50
Shuttle Bus Pickup Locations
RouteHotelBoarding Location
1Hilton Grand Vacation Suites Las Vegas

Curbside on Karen Ave.

 Palace StationNorth Entrance—West Side
 SLS Las Vegas Hotel & CasinoMain Entrance—Las Vegas Blvd.
 Stratosphere Casino Hotel and TowerMain Entrance—Las Vegas Blvd.
2Circus Circus HotelOutside Main Entrance
 Hilton Grand Vacations on the StripOutside Main Lobby
3Mirage Hotel and Casino

North Valet Entrance

 

 

 

Treasure Island

Trump Hotel Las Vegas

Right of Main Entrance on Sirens Blvd.

Curbside at Main Entrance

4Bellagio

Tour Bus Area

 Cosmopolitan of Las VegasRight of Main Lobby
5Aria Resort and Casino Las VegasTour Bus Lobby
 Vdara Hotel and Spa

Walk to Aria

6New York New York

Main Entrance

 Park MGM

Tour Bus Area

7Excalibur

Rotunda Entrance

 Luxor Hotel and Casino

Excalibur Rotunda Entrance

 Tropicana Las Vegas

North Entrance

8Elara

PH Tour Bus Area

 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

Main Lobby

 MGM Grand Hotel and Casino

Grand Garden Entrance

 Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino

Tour Bus Area

 Signature @ MGM Grand

Walk to MGM Grand Garden Entrance

9Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino

Planet Hollywood Sign

 Palms Casino Resort

Race and Sports Book Entrance

10Bally’s Hotel and Casino

North Entrance Tour Bus Area

 Paris Las Vegas

Walk to Bally’s

 Westin Las Vegas

Right of Main Entrance

11Flamingo Las Vegas

Tour Bus Area by Parking Garage

 Harrah’s Las Vegas

Tour Bus Area

 
Hilton Grand Vacations at Flamingo

Tour Bus Area by Parking Garage

 The Cromwell

Tour Bus Area by Parking Garage

 The LINQ Hotel

Walk to Harrah’s

12Downtown Grand

Golden Nugget, Carson Tower Entrance

 Golden Nugget

Carson Tower Entrance

 Plaza Hotel & Casino

Golden Nugget, Carson Tower Entrance

*SEMA-to-AAPEX Shuttle

 

Encore at Wynn Las Vegas

Walk to Venetian Tour Bus Area

 Palazzo Resort Hotel & Casino

Walk to Venetian Tour Bus Area

 Venetian

Tour Bus Lobby

 Wynn/Encore

Walk to Venetian Tour Bus Area

*Interhall Shuttle: Service runs between Las Vegas Convention Center and Sands Expo Center. Palazzo, Venetian, Wynn Las Vegas and Encore at Wynn Las Vegas should utilize this service to get to/from their hotel and the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Fri, 11/01/2019 - 10:37

SEMA News—November 2019

EVENTS

SEMA Show Transportation Guide

Options for Getting To and From the Convention Center

Monorail
The Las Vegas Monorail is great for those staying at a hotel near a station. Trains run every seven minutes throughout the day and stop right in front of the LVCC.

Stations:

  • MGM Grand Station
  • Bally’s/Paris Station
  • Flamingo/Caesars Palace Station
  • Harrah’s/The LINQ Station
  • Las Vegas Convention Center Station
  • Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino Station
  • SLS Station

Look for Monorail kiosks throughout the Convention Center and at participating hotels. For more information, visit
https://tix.lvmonorail.com/SEMA2019 or call 702-699-8200.

Discounted Ride Passes:

  • Single Ride: $5
  • 24-Hour Pass: $13
  • Two-Day Pass: $23
  • Three-Day Pass: $25
  • Four-Day Pass: $32
  • Five-Day Pass: $38
  • Seven-Day Pass: $49
Shuttle
The Las Vegas Monorail is great for those staying at a hotel near a station. Trains run every seven minutes throughout the day and stop right in front of the LVCC.

Hotel Shuttles

Complimentary shuttle bus service is provided each morning and afternoon between the LVCC and official hotels, plus SEMA-to-AAPEX service throughout the day between the LVCC and the Sands Expo Center.

Stops are at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, North Hall Door 10 and the east end of the Performance Pavilion every 20–30 minutes on all Show days.

Hotel shuttles will carry an average of 55 passengers and will be marked with a route number. The route numbers and pickup locations at each hotel are noted on the “Shuttle Bus Pickup Locations” chart in the November issue of SEMA News on p. 406.

For shuttle service to Wynn/Encore, use the SEMA-to-AAPEX Shuttle.

Hours of Operation:

SEMA Show to Hotels

  • Tuesday–Thursday: 3:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 2:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

Hotels to SEMA Show

  • Tuesday–Friday: 7:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.

SEMA-to-AAPEX Shuttle

Complimentary shuttles are available every 5–10 minutes to the AAPEX Show at the Sands Expo Center. Pickup/drop-off locations are at the east end of the Performance Pavilion and North Hall Door 10.

Hours of Operation:

  • Tuesday–Thursday: 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 7:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. (no midday service)

SEMA Show Loop

The SEMA Show Loop is available to transport Showgoers from one side of the LVCC to the other. Shuttles run every 15 minutes and stop at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, North Hall Door 10, east end of the South Hall and east end of the Performance Pavilion. These will be 25-passenger mini buses marked “SEMA Show Loop.”

Hours of Operation:

  • Saturday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
  • Sunday: 8:00 a.m.–9:30 p.m.
  • Monday: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday–Thursday: 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
  • Friday: 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Ride-Sharing

Designated drop-off/pick-up locations will be available on the east end of the Performance Pavilion and in the Blue Lot on the east end of the Grand Lobby (adjacent to the Central Hall) for Showgoers using Uber or Lyft to get to and from the LVCC.

Tip: Identify where the Uber and Lyft pick-up/drop-off locations are before ordering your ride. Many hotels have designated lots as well.

Taxis and Limousines

There are two SEMA Show designated drop-off and pick-up areas. These transportation hubs are located on the east side of the Performance Pavilion and in the Blue Lot on the east end of the Grand Lobby. For more information, call the Nevada Taxicab Authority Dispatch at 702-668-4005.

Tip: When getting dropped off, tell your driver which taxi stop you want based on where you are headed. Registration, for example, is closest to the North Taxi Stop.

Strip and DowntownExpress (SDX)

Las Vegas public bus service runs from downtown Las Vegas to the LVCC, and to the Strip. Service includes 18 stops between the LV Premium Outlets in downtown, to the City Parkway, to the LVCC, to the Fashion Show Mall/Bellagio/Excalibur/Mandalay Bay and to South Strip Transfer Terminal.

For more detailed information, visit www.rtcsnv.com or call the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada at 702-228-7433.

Hours of Operation:

  • Daily: 9:00 a.m.–12:30 a.m., approximately every 15 minutes. Service starts at 7:00 a.m. on days with major conventions at the LVCC.

Airport Shuttle

Shuttle service to McCarran International Airport will run every 30 minutes Thursday and Friday. The airport shuttles will pick up at North Hall Door 10 and the east end of the Performance Pavilion.

The price is $10 per person (cash only); pay at the bus. For questions, call TMS at 866-439-8563.

Hours of Operation:

  • Thursday: 7:00 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
  • Friday: 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

SEMA Show On-Site Parking

Limited LVCC parking is available for $10 daily on Show days with in/out privileges. Parking is available in the Platinum Lot. There will be no parking in the Platinum Lot Thursday, November 7, and Friday, November 8. Visit www.SEMAShow.com/ground-transportation for more information.

Platinum Lot: Monday–Wednesday, 937 East Desert Inn Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89109

SEMA Show Off-Site Parking

  • CCD Lot (305 Convention Center Dr.): $20
  • Piero’s Restaurant (355 Convention Center Dr.): $50
  • Marriott (325 Convention Center Dr.): $40
  • Courtyard Inn (3275 Paradise Rd.): $40
  • Westgate Hotel (3000 Paradise Rd.): $30
  • Springhill Suites (2989 Paradise Rd.): $40
  • Renaissance (3400 Paradise Rd.): $50
Shuttle Bus Pickup Locations
RouteHotelBoarding Location
1Hilton Grand Vacation Suites Las Vegas

Curbside on Karen Ave.

 Palace StationNorth Entrance—West Side
 SLS Las Vegas Hotel & CasinoMain Entrance—Las Vegas Blvd.
 Stratosphere Casino Hotel and TowerMain Entrance—Las Vegas Blvd.
2Circus Circus HotelOutside Main Entrance
 Hilton Grand Vacations on the StripOutside Main Lobby
3Mirage Hotel and Casino

North Valet Entrance

 

 

 

Treasure Island

Trump Hotel Las Vegas

Right of Main Entrance on Sirens Blvd.

Curbside at Main Entrance

4Bellagio

Tour Bus Area

 Cosmopolitan of Las VegasRight of Main Lobby
5Aria Resort and Casino Las VegasTour Bus Lobby
 Vdara Hotel and Spa

Walk to Aria

6New York New York

Main Entrance

 Park MGM

Tour Bus Area

7Excalibur

Rotunda Entrance

 Luxor Hotel and Casino

Excalibur Rotunda Entrance

 Tropicana Las Vegas

North Entrance

8Elara

PH Tour Bus Area

 Hard Rock Hotel and Casino

Main Lobby

 MGM Grand Hotel and Casino

Grand Garden Entrance

 Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino

Tour Bus Area

 Signature @ MGM Grand

Walk to MGM Grand Garden Entrance

9Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino

Planet Hollywood Sign

 Palms Casino Resort

Race and Sports Book Entrance

10Bally’s Hotel and Casino

North Entrance Tour Bus Area

 Paris Las Vegas

Walk to Bally’s

 Westin Las Vegas

Right of Main Entrance

11Flamingo Las Vegas

Tour Bus Area by Parking Garage

 Harrah’s Las Vegas

Tour Bus Area

 
Hilton Grand Vacations at Flamingo

Tour Bus Area by Parking Garage

 The Cromwell

Tour Bus Area by Parking Garage

 The LINQ Hotel

Walk to Harrah’s

12Downtown Grand

Golden Nugget, Carson Tower Entrance

 Golden Nugget

Carson Tower Entrance

 Plaza Hotel & Casino

Golden Nugget, Carson Tower Entrance

*SEMA-to-AAPEX Shuttle

 

Encore at Wynn Las Vegas

Walk to Venetian Tour Bus Area

 Palazzo Resort Hotel & Casino

Walk to Venetian Tour Bus Area

 Venetian

Tour Bus Lobby

 Wynn/Encore

Walk to Venetian Tour Bus Area

*Interhall Shuttle: Service runs between Las Vegas Convention Center and Sands Expo Center. Palazzo, Venetian, Wynn Las Vegas and Encore at Wynn Las Vegas should utilize this service to get to/from their hotel and the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Fri, 11/01/2019 - 10:12

SEMA News—November 2019

HERITAGE

By Drew Hardin

Everybody Was There

Photo Courtesy Petersen Publishing Company Archive

Heritage

“It’s over, completed, finished. We’re tired, happy and proud that the 1969 SEMA Show, produced by Hot Rod Industry News (HRIN), was the largest and finest exposition this industry has ever seen.”

Hot Rod Industry News, January 1969

“Growing in importance…in prestige…and in size. The third annual High Performance and Custom Trade Show is already three times larger than the ’67 show and almost twice the size of last year’s event.”

Hot Rod Industry News, February 1969

Fifty years ago, the Petersen Publishing Company magazine devoted to the business side of automotive enthusiasm devoted a large number of pages over two issues to cover the 1969 SEMA Show. The quotes reproduced above are the stories’ opening lines. Even five decades later, you can feel the adrenaline rush of enthusiasm and accomplishment the editors were experiencing on their first go-around with the coverage and how that rush transformed with a month’s hindsight into a less jubilant but more confident assessment of what went on at the Anaheim Convention Center in early January—and what it bode for the industry.

The High Performance and Custom Trade Show got its start two years before, with about 100 exhibitors in “pipe-and-drape” booths lining the concrete halls of Dodger Stadium. Signs of growth were immediate, so the second show was moved to the convention center in Anaheim, where there was plenty of room for the show’s 200 exhibitor booths. By 1969, the HRIN editors said the show “nearly filled” the “giant Anaheim Convention Center floor. Whatever you were looking for, from the finest in all-out racing equipment to apparel, was on display.”

Reading those 50-year-old accounts, we were struck by similarities between then and now.

“By 11 a.m. on Wednesday, the show open for barely an hour, the aisles were filling rapidly with dealers, buyers and exhibitors.”

Sound familiar? Holley (then known as Holley Carburetor) hosted an awards breakfast on opening day, while Carter Carburetor did the honors for a luncheon.

The photo here is from Thursday night’s SEMA Banquet, “also the largest event of its kind ever held in the industry. More than 1,350 persons filled the floor of the Anaheim Convention Center for the affair. Everybody who was anybody in the speed equipment field was on hand.”

That still holds true today, though the number of banquet attendees has swelled to close to 3,000 guests.

Among the awards handed out during the 1969 banquet, Bob Spar of B&M Automotive received the Ed Elliott Memorial Award “for outstanding contribution to SEMA.” The award was “kept secret until the banquet” and was presented by Wally Parks, as NHRA co-sponsored the award.

“We could write for hours and hours about the show,” the editors boasted in their January issue. “The displays were better than ever, professional in every way. The industry has advanced from more than just a bunch of guys working on cars in their back yards. The men in it are businessmen and good ones, and this is only going to improve in the future. We’re proud of the 1969 SEMA Show and plan on making the 1970 edition even bigger.”

Fri, 11/01/2019 - 10:12

SEMA News—November 2019

HERITAGE

By Drew Hardin

Everybody Was There

Photo Courtesy Petersen Publishing Company Archive

Heritage

“It’s over, completed, finished. We’re tired, happy and proud that the 1969 SEMA Show, produced by Hot Rod Industry News (HRIN), was the largest and finest exposition this industry has ever seen.”

Hot Rod Industry News, January 1969

“Growing in importance…in prestige…and in size. The third annual High Performance and Custom Trade Show is already three times larger than the ’67 show and almost twice the size of last year’s event.”

Hot Rod Industry News, February 1969

Fifty years ago, the Petersen Publishing Company magazine devoted to the business side of automotive enthusiasm devoted a large number of pages over two issues to cover the 1969 SEMA Show. The quotes reproduced above are the stories’ opening lines. Even five decades later, you can feel the adrenaline rush of enthusiasm and accomplishment the editors were experiencing on their first go-around with the coverage and how that rush transformed with a month’s hindsight into a less jubilant but more confident assessment of what went on at the Anaheim Convention Center in early January—and what it bode for the industry.

The High Performance and Custom Trade Show got its start two years before, with about 100 exhibitors in “pipe-and-drape” booths lining the concrete halls of Dodger Stadium. Signs of growth were immediate, so the second show was moved to the convention center in Anaheim, where there was plenty of room for the show’s 200 exhibitor booths. By 1969, the HRIN editors said the show “nearly filled” the “giant Anaheim Convention Center floor. Whatever you were looking for, from the finest in all-out racing equipment to apparel, was on display.”

Reading those 50-year-old accounts, we were struck by similarities between then and now.

“By 11 a.m. on Wednesday, the show open for barely an hour, the aisles were filling rapidly with dealers, buyers and exhibitors.”

Sound familiar? Holley (then known as Holley Carburetor) hosted an awards breakfast on opening day, while Carter Carburetor did the honors for a luncheon.

The photo here is from Thursday night’s SEMA Banquet, “also the largest event of its kind ever held in the industry. More than 1,350 persons filled the floor of the Anaheim Convention Center for the affair. Everybody who was anybody in the speed equipment field was on hand.”

That still holds true today, though the number of banquet attendees has swelled to close to 3,000 guests.

Among the awards handed out during the 1969 banquet, Bob Spar of B&M Automotive received the Ed Elliott Memorial Award “for outstanding contribution to SEMA.” The award was “kept secret until the banquet” and was presented by Wally Parks, as NHRA co-sponsored the award.

“We could write for hours and hours about the show,” the editors boasted in their January issue. “The displays were better than ever, professional in every way. The industry has advanced from more than just a bunch of guys working on cars in their back yards. The men in it are businessmen and good ones, and this is only going to improve in the future. We’re proud of the 1969 SEMA Show and plan on making the 1970 edition even bigger.”