From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office
 

 

SEMA is promoting Lauren Wilbor to political director, giving her day-to-day oversight of the organization's grassroots and grasstops efforts to support SEMA's advocacy and communications efforts in Washington, D.C., and throughout the country. She will continue to be based out of SEMA's Washington, D.C., office.
 

In her previous role as manager of digital communications and partnerships, Wilbor spearheaded SEMA's groundbreaking effort to deploy automotive content creators for advocacy. Her work has brought greater visibility to SEMA's award-winning campaign to preserve vehicle choice in the United States and has elevated an ongoing, state-based effort to protect and preserve the right to race nationwide. She will now be tasked with creating and implementing multi-pronged advocacy campaigns in support of federal, state and local legislative initiatives, while also advancing SEMA's political engagement programs, including the Driving Force Action SuperPAC, to ensure awareness among lawmakers, SEMA member businesses and other aligned stakeholder organizations. 
 

"When we brought Lauren in to oversee our digital advocacy and relationships with the content creator community, she provided immediate value through her ability to mobilize key voices in our nation's community of automotive enthusiasts. She is creative, organized, and has an ability to create personal connections within our community," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs. "We're thrilled to give her the reins to our advocacy campaigns as we continue our efforts to preserve and protect the automotive aftermarket and our nation's rich car culture."
 

"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to step into this role and continue advancing SEMA's advocacy efforts on behalf of the automotive aftermarket and performance racing industries," Wilbor said. "SEMA represents one of the most passionate communities in the country, and it's a privilege to help amplify the voices of our members, along with builders, racers and enthusiasts nationwide. I'm excited to build on the momentum of our advocacy campaigns and continue fighting for the enthusiasts and businesses that make this industry so special."
 

Wilbor, a native of San Diego, holds a degree in political science from the University of Colorado Boulder.
 

For more information, visit sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

 

As interest in overlanding grows among consumers, aftermarket manufacturers and retailers face new challenges and opportunities across product development, sales and installation.
 

To help members better understand what this growing segment means for their businesses, the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) will host an upcoming Coffee and Conversation on Thursday, April 2, at 9:00 a.m. PDT/12:00 p.m. EDT.
 

The discussion will explore key product considerations for overland builds, including how wheels and tires, suspension upgrades and braking components can support added load and off-road use. Additionally, Mike Hallmark, brand manager and director at Prototitan, will share best practices for selling, installing and supporting overlanding products, with insights into customer education, proper setup and common challenges faced by shops and manufacturers.
 

Unlike webinars that offer minimal time for interaction, WTSBC Coffee & Conversations are centered on open dialogue. Attendees will be able to network, share insights and learn from subject matter experts.
 

Be part of the conversation by registering for the event here.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

A new version of "Leno's Law" has been introduced in California as Senate Bill (SB) 1392, authored by Sen. Dave Cortese with Sen. Shannon Grove returning as the main coauthor. This bipartisan effort is backed by legendary car enthusiast Jay Leno and supported by SEMA. 

SB 1392 provides a clear, limited pathway for qualifying collector vehicles to receive relief from the state's biennial smog check requirement. The bill is narrowly designed: it applies only to collector vehicles, requires collector-vehicle insurance with proof at registration, and phases in eligibility in a controlled way--starting with certain older model years and expanding gradually over time. 

This exemption is crucial as it addresses the challenges classic car owners face, including the difficulty and expense of finding smog stations equipped to test older vehicles. For many enthusiasts, keeping older vehicles compliant has become more difficult and more expensive as fewer shops maintain the specialized equipment needed to test older vehicles. Currently, only 7% of California smog checks are performed on pre-OBD-II vehicles, and many STAR-certified stations test fewer than one of these vehicles per day. Classic cars are typically driven only on special occasions, weekends or to car shows, minimizing their environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles. SB 1392 offers a practical update to reflect how collector vehicles are actually used: typically sparingly, carefully maintained and often for community events. 

SEMA urges California enthusiasts and small businesses to speak up early and help move SB 1392 forward. 

Take action now: Visit semahq.org and sign up for updates.

"Few things in our divided nation unite us in the way our love of cars and trucks do. Our vehicles are a bridge between generations, a driver of economic empowerment and the source of a rich culture and heritage that transcends demographics," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA CEO. "Leno's Law is an important cultivator for our shared car culture, an update to existing law that empowers the next generation to enjoy for decades to come the vehicles that are most meaningful to them, while providing Californians with the assurances that existing laws and policies regarding smog emissions are appropriately updated to best serve all communities. SEMA strongly urges passage of Leno's Law, and thanks Senators Cortese and Grove for their bipartisan work to unite Californians under our love of motor vehicles." 

SEMA, based in Diamond Bar, California, represents nearly 1,100 member businesses in California. This thriving aftermarket industry significantly contributes to California's economy, generating more than $40 billion in economic impact, supporting approximately 150,000 jobs, $14 billion in wages and benefits, and $6 billion in taxes. 

For updates on SB 1392, sign up to be a SEMA Action Member or contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs,  at victorm@sema.org. 

 

This story was originally published on February 24, 2026.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

A new version of "Leno's Law" has been introduced in California as Senate Bill (SB) 1392, authored by Sen. Dave Cortese with Sen. Shannon Grove returning as the main coauthor. This bipartisan effort is backed by legendary car enthusiast Jay Leno and supported by SEMA. 

SB 1392 provides a clear, limited pathway for qualifying collector vehicles to receive relief from the state's biennial smog check requirement. The bill is narrowly designed: it applies only to collector vehicles, requires collector-vehicle insurance with proof at registration, and phases in eligibility in a controlled way--starting with certain older model years and expanding gradually over time. 

This exemption is crucial as it addresses the challenges classic car owners face, including the difficulty and expense of finding smog stations equipped to test older vehicles. For many enthusiasts, keeping older vehicles compliant has become more difficult and more expensive as fewer shops maintain the specialized equipment needed to test older vehicles. Currently, only 7% of California smog checks are performed on pre-OBD-II vehicles, and many STAR-certified stations test fewer than one of these vehicles per day. Classic cars are typically driven only on special occasions, weekends or to car shows, minimizing their environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles. SB 1392 offers a practical update to reflect how collector vehicles are actually used: typically sparingly, carefully maintained and often for community events. 

SEMA urges California enthusiasts and small businesses to speak up early and help move SB 1392 forward. 

Take action now: Visit semahq.org and sign up for updates.

"Few things in our divided nation unite us in the way our love of cars and trucks do. Our vehicles are a bridge between generations, a driver of economic empowerment and the source of a rich culture and heritage that transcends demographics," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA CEO. "Leno's Law is an important cultivator for our shared car culture, an update to existing law that empowers the next generation to enjoy for decades to come the vehicles that are most meaningful to them, while providing Californians with the assurances that existing laws and policies regarding smog emissions are appropriately updated to best serve all communities. SEMA strongly urges passage of Leno's Law, and thanks Senators Cortese and Grove for their bipartisan work to unite Californians under our love of motor vehicles." 

SEMA, based in Diamond Bar, California, represents nearly 1,100 member businesses in California. This thriving aftermarket industry significantly contributes to California's economy, generating more than $40 billion in economic impact, supporting approximately 150,000 jobs, $14 billion in wages and benefits, and $6 billion in taxes. 

For updates on SB 1392, sign up to be a SEMA Action Member or contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs,  at victorm@sema.org. 

 

This story was originally published on February 24, 2026.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

A new version of "Leno's Law" has been introduced in California as Senate Bill (SB) 1392, authored by Sen. Dave Cortese with Sen. Shannon Grove returning as the main coauthor. This bipartisan effort is backed by legendary car enthusiast Jay Leno and supported by SEMA. 

SB 1392 provides a clear, limited pathway for qualifying collector vehicles to receive relief from the state's biennial smog check requirement. The bill is narrowly designed: it applies only to collector vehicles, requires collector-vehicle insurance with proof at registration, and phases in eligibility in a controlled way--starting with certain older model years and expanding gradually over time. 

This exemption is crucial as it addresses the challenges classic car owners face, including the difficulty and expense of finding smog stations equipped to test older vehicles. For many enthusiasts, keeping older vehicles compliant has become more difficult and more expensive as fewer shops maintain the specialized equipment needed to test older vehicles. Currently, only 7% of California smog checks are performed on pre-OBD-II vehicles, and many STAR-certified stations test fewer than one of these vehicles per day. Classic cars are typically driven only on special occasions, weekends or to car shows, minimizing their environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles. SB 1392 offers a practical update to reflect how collector vehicles are actually used: typically sparingly, carefully maintained and often for community events. 

SEMA urges California enthusiasts and small businesses to speak up early and help move SB 1392 forward. 

Take action now: Visit semahq.org and sign up for updates.

"Few things in our divided nation unite us in the way our love of cars and trucks do. Our vehicles are a bridge between generations, a driver of economic empowerment and the source of a rich culture and heritage that transcends demographics," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA CEO. "Leno's Law is an important cultivator for our shared car culture, an update to existing law that empowers the next generation to enjoy for decades to come the vehicles that are most meaningful to them, while providing Californians with the assurances that existing laws and policies regarding smog emissions are appropriately updated to best serve all communities. SEMA strongly urges passage of Leno's Law, and thanks Senators Cortese and Grove for their bipartisan work to unite Californians under our love of motor vehicles." 

SEMA, based in Diamond Bar, California, represents nearly 1,100 member businesses in California. This thriving aftermarket industry significantly contributes to California's economy, generating more than $40 billion in economic impact, supporting approximately 150,000 jobs, $14 billion in wages and benefits, and $6 billion in taxes. 

For updates on SB 1392, sign up to be a SEMA Action Member or contact Victor Muñoz, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs,  at victorm@sema.org. 

 

This story was originally published on February 24, 2026.

By Ashley Reyes

 

Are you ready to apply your industry expertise toward shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket? If you have the vision to drive meaningful change in the industry beyond your daily responsibilities, SEMA invites you to take a seat at the table.
 

SEMA is seeking passionate volunteers to serve on its council and network select committees--a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on your market segment or professional community, strengthen leadership skills and build valuable industry connections.
 

"SEMA select committees provide the boots-on-the-ground intelligence and leadership necessary to protect and advance our nine distinct communities," said SEMA Senior Director of Member Engagement Marcy Yanus. "We aren't just looking for participants--we're looking for strategic thinkers who are ready to roll up their sleeves and build a more resilient industry for everyone."
 

Select committee volunteers are crucial to the success of many of SEMA's signature programs and resources that help member businesses stay competitive and industry professionals excel in their careers. With the guidance of SEMA staff, volunteers meet throughout the year to develop new initiatives, events and educational opportunities that address industry challenges and provide opportunities for growth.
 

Through this fun and rewarding experience, volunteers establish strong industry relationships, build skills to advance in current roles and learn from industry leaders with similar passions.   

 

At the SEMA Show and beyond, select committee volunteers help drive the aftermarket forward. Pictured are the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) select committees.

What It Takes to Serve and Why It Matters

There are nine councils and networks within SEMA. The biggest qualifications to serve on a select committee are current employment by a SEMA-member company and active membership of the council or network you're wishing to serve. Strategic planning skills, relevant aftermarket experience and genuine interest in supporting the growth of your segment are highly encouraged and should be explained in the application.  
 

Because SEMA aims to provide volunteers with adequate time and experience to make a real impact, volunteers are required to serve one two-year term and contribute approximately five to 10 hours per month. Participation includes monthly committee meetings and attendance at a yearly long-range planning meeting and council summit every other year.
 

Ready to step up, help your industry succeed and have fun in the process? Apply to join a Select Committee by Friday, April 17, at www.sema.org/volunteer.  
 

SEMA's nine councils and networks include:
 

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) 
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) 
• Future Leaders Network (FLN) 
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) 
• Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) 
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) 
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) 
• Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) 
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) 

By SEMA News Editors

New this year, exhibitors must activate or create an account in our new customer relationship management (CRM) system before submitting their 2026 SEMA Show Exhibit Space Rental Application (ESRA).

 

SEMA has launched a new customer management system ahead of this year's SEMA Show, November 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas.
 

To improve how SEMA engages with exhibitors and serves the industry year-round, the association has migrated to a new customer management system powered by Salesforce.

What This Means for 2026 SEMA Show Exhibitors
 

New this year, exhibitors must activate or create an account in our new customer relationship management (CRM) system before submitting their 2026 SEMA Show Exhibit Space Rental Application (ESRA). Once an account is set up, industry members will be able to:
 

• Reserve exhibit space.
• Download invoices, complete online payments and access exhibitor resources.

How to Get Started

Getting set up in the new SEMA Show exhibitor platform is simple:
 

• Visit services.semashow.com.
• Returning exhibitors:
  • Enter the email you've used to purchase a SEMA Show booth before to receive a password reset link (click here).
• New exhibitors or returning exhibitors using a new email: 
  • Create a new account (click here)

Once logged in, exhibitors are ready to reserve an exhibit space.
 

Having Issues Reserving Your Exhibit Space? 

If you're not receiving a password reset email or can't set up a new account, it's possible your record has more than one email address on file. In that case, our team will need to assist you with setting up your account.

SEMA is providing hands-on support to ensure a smooth transition for every exhibitor. 

Call: 240-ASK-SEMA (240-275-7362)

Email: customercare@sema.org

SEMA's stellar customer care team will walk you through account setup, password resets or answer any question

Note: updating your account does not affect exhibitors' account history or SEMA Show seniority.

We're excited to share what we've been working on--and we look forward to helping you make the most of it.

---

In related news, SEMA has opened registration for the 2026 Exhibitor Summit, a must-attend and complimentary event for all exhibitors, including first-timers and long-timers. Learn more about that here.
 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens in Spring 2026; to sign up for notifications, visit here. For more information, visit semashow.com. 

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | DC Studio

By SEMA News Editors

 

 

Acura to Kick Off Honda Heritage Parts Program in the U.S. with Reproduction Parts for First-Generation Acura NSX

 

 

Acura today announced the launch of a new Honda Heritage Parts program in the United States, by offering reproduction parts for the first-generation Acura NSX exclusively through Acura dealerships nationwide beginning this summer.

 

"In this 40th anniversary year of the Acura brand, the launch of Honda Heritage Parts is especially meaningful, giving Acura enthusiasts the support they need to continue enjoying their first-generation Acura NSX," said Steven Bailey, vice president of Honda and Acura Parts Service and Technical Division. "At its core, the new Honda Heritage Parts program honors our shared passion for these iconic vehicles and helps ensure they can be enjoyed by future generations."

 

Honda Heritage Parts will include two categories: Genuine Honda Reproduction Parts and Honda Compatible Parts. This was made possible by the establishment of a new collaborative framework with parts suppliers, technological advancements, and the adoption of new materials and manufacturing methods.

 

• Genuine Honda Reproduction Parts will be reproduced using the same materials and production methods that were used for the original parts.
• Honda Compatible Parts are newly redeveloped and reproduced to replace original parts no longer available for sale by Honda.

 

Parts for other Acura and Honda performance models are being evaluated. Additional details, including pricing and parts availability, will be released closer to launch, said Honda.

 

Honda Heritage Works is a new global service business consisting of Honda Heritage Parts and Honda Restoration Service for customers who wish to preserve and continue driving classic Honda and Acura performance models. The service will reproduce discontinued genuine parts, including powertrain, interior, exterior, electrical and chassis parts. It will launch April 1, 2026, in Japan.

 

The Honda Restoration Service will be offered exclusively in Japan for Japan-market first-generation NSX models and will utilize Honda Heritage Parts to restore customer vehicles. Formerly known as the NSX Refresh Plan, the service has restarted in Japan under the Heritage Works initiative.

 

For more information, visit acuranews.com.

 

Shelby American Signs Strategic Agreement with Truck Company, Shelby Performance

 

 

Shelby American, a wholly owned subsidiary of Carroll Shelby International, has announced a new strategic agreement with truck company Shelby Performance of Bristol, Indiana.

 

Under the agreement, Shelby Performance will build and distribute a full line of Shelby trucks based on the Ford F-150 and F-250 pickups. Manufacturing is scheduled to begin in Q2 of 2026 at a new state-of-the-art facility dedicated to Shelby vehicles in Bristol. The new Shelby Performance agreement includes distribution of the trucks in an effort led by Brock Patterson, who earned the title of nation's top Shelby retail sales leader during the first decade of Shelby truck production.

 

Key highlights of the new truck line include:

• Enhanced King Shocks suspension systems delivering improved handling, durability and ride quality.
• Increased horsepower and performance tuning.
• Bold, unmistakable Shelby styling.
• Strictly limited production volumes to ensure exclusivity and long-term collector value.

 

"Demand for Shelby vehicles continues to grow globally, which is why we're expanding our production capabilities with strategic relationships worldwide," said Joe Conway, CEO of Shelby American. “Through our own factory, as well as mod shops and manufacturing agreements, Shelby vehicles can now be built in Nevada, Michigan, Indiana, Canada, Germany, the United Arab Emirates and Australia. We only work with the best minds in automotive, which is why we aligned with the founders of Shelby Performance. Jeff Burttschell and Mike Graber, co-owners of Shelby Performance, are industry leaders who have demonstrated the ability to deliver world-class performance vehicles worthy of Carroll Shelby's name."

 

Shelby Performance operates from a production facility in Bristol, Indiana. The company currently employs a group of skilled assemblers and management professionals, many of whom bring years of experience. Shelby Performance has the capacity to build high-performance trucks, as well as cars and SUVs, when demand requires an uptick in production.

 

"When drivers see S H E L B Y boldly displayed across the grille, they recognize a symbol of authentic American performance heritage," said Burttschell. "Shelby is more than a brand. It's a lifelong passion. That passion drives every decision, every design detail and every vehicle that leaves the Bristol facility."

 

The new line of elite Shelby trucks based on the Ford F-150 and F-250 will roll out over the next 90 days, starting with the 2026 F-250 Super Baja launch next month.

 

Each vehicle from Shelby American is documented in the official Shelby Registry and includes membership in Team Shelby, the official club. To learn more about a Shelby vehicle, visit a local dealer or go to shelby.com.

 

GFS Chemicals Welcomes Erin Vyas and Matthew Fleshman as Product Managers

 

GFS Chemicals, a manufacturer of fine and specialty chemicals, has added two new product managers to its team: Erin Vyas and Matthew Fleshman.
 

Each will play a pivotal role in the company's ongoing growth and innovation, company representatives said. Responsibilities will include developing new products, analyzing market opportunities, determining pricing strategies and providing technical support and training for both customers and internal teams.
 

As a senior product manager, Vyas will work directly with turbidity and UV-Vis reference standards. Before joining GFS Chemicals, Vyas spent nearly a decade at Thermo Fisher Scientific, where she launched new products, developed top-rate technical content and training materials and supported the global commercialization of more than 250,000 laboratory products.
 

Fleshman, formerly a senior research scientist at Abbott Nutrition, joins GFS Chemicals with a focus on developing new custom products for the company's research and analytical chemicals division.
 

For more information, visit gfschemicals.com.

 

Meyer Distributing Announces New Partnership With MTN OPS

 

Meyer Distributing has entered into a new partnership with MTN OPS, an outdoor performance energy and nutrition brand designed for backcountry enthusiasts, hunters and tactical athletes to improve physical performance, strength and recovery.
 

MTN OPS provides supplements, apparel and gear designed for rigorous training and outdoor adventures, the company said, and offers a wide range of performance-enhancing powders and capsules, such as Ignite, an energy drink mix containing 200 mg of caffeine and nootropics for mental clarity, and Hydrate, which provides more than 1,000 mg of electrolytes to support cellular fluid balance during intense physical activity.
 

"Partnering with Meyer Distributing marks an important step for MTN OPS," said Daren Yates, vice president of sales for MTN OPS. "Their operational excellence and customer-focused approach align with our goals to expand service reliability and accelerate delivery to our clients. We look forward to a collaborative relationship that drives measurable value for our customers and partners."
 

"MTN OPS was a huge hit at our RV/Marine show," said Nick Gramelspacher, vice president of brand strategy for Meyer. "They offer a great POP display for your store to sit by your counter so you can enjoy those impulse sales. Plus, your employees will love the beef sticks, protein bars and energy packets."
 

For more information, visit meyerdistributing.com.

By SEMA News Editors

 

2026 International Drag Racing Hall of Fame Ceremony Honors Seven

 

The Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, Florida, recently hosted the 2026 International Drag Racing Hall of Fame ceremony.
 

This year's honorees--who were celebrated at the Museum on Thursday, March 5--included:

• Steve Boggs (crew chief and tuner)
• Bob Frey (race commentator)
• Anita Mäkelä (multi-race winner and season champion based in Europe)
• David Reher and Buddy Morrison (founders of Reher‑Morrison Racing Engines)
• Rahn Tobler (crew chief and tuner)

 

In addition, Arlene Johnson was recognized as the Pat Garlits Memorial Award recipient. Johnson is the wife of the six-time NHRA Pro Stock champion Warren Johnson.
 

The Pat Garlits Memorial Award, which began in 2014, honors the life and legacy of Pat Garlits, the wife of Don Garlits. The award is given to a woman who contributed to the success of a spouse involved in the sport, or contributed to the success of the sport by their actions both on and off the drag strip.
 

The annual event celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport of drag racing.

 

Freedom 250 Grand Prix Unveils Historic Track Design for D.C. Race

 

Charting the course of racing history, officials have unveiled the unique race track design and layout for this summer's Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, D.C., featuring the cars and stars of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES.
 

Set for August 22-23, 2026, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix will mark the first‑ever auto race held on the National Mall and the historic city streets of Washington, D.C., to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The landmark weekend will be free and open to the public.
 

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix street circuit will feature a 1.7‑mile, seven‑turn layout, blending the high‑speed demands of INDYCAR racing with the historic character and stunning visuals of the nation's capital. The racing circuit will wind around the National Mall, incorporating some of America's most historic and iconic landmarks.
 

Designed with fan accessibility, breathtaking views and safety at its core, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix street circuit will feature the high-powered open-wheel cars of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES racing on a sweeping .4-mile frontstretch along Pennsylvania Avenue, framed by the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol. The pit lane area of the track will be adjacent to the track, on Pennsylvania Avenue, between Turns 1 and 2, on the circuit design. The ultra-competitive INDYCAR field will also race by the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the National Gallery of Art and the National Archives on the challenging and picturesque course layout.

 

"This circuit is unlike any other street race we've seen," said two‑time NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion and back‑to‑back Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden, who had the opportunity to tour the circuit on Monday morning. "You've got a high‑speed section down Pennsylvania Avenue that will reward commitment and precision, mixed with technical corners around 9th Street that will demand respect. Racing through the heart of American history, with those amazing landmarks lining the course, is going to be incredibly powerful. I can't wait to be back here to race and celebrate America's birthday at the Freedom 250 Grand Prix."
 

The Freedom 250 Grand Prix was formalized through an Executive Order signed earlier this year by President Donald J. Trump entitled "Celebrating American Greatness with American Motor Racing." The first-ever street race around the National Mall enjoys key support from the Chief of Protocol of the United States, Ambassador Monica Crowley, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser.
 

Read more about this story and the event on the INDYCAR website here.

 

Images courtesy of INDYCAR

 

Petersen Automotive Museum Partners With WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca

 

The Petersen Automotive Museum and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca have formed a new partnership aimed at amplifying their impact in the automotive and motorsports industries.
 

As part of the partnership, the Petersen Automotive Museum and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca will work together to further their shared missions of preserving automotive history and engaging the public, while delivering meaningful experiences for enthusiasts and supporters, representatives of each organization said.
 

The museum will partner with the raceway on specific events, including the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion and NTT INDYCAR SERIES season finale, to expand the event's reach and impact, host member events and provide cars for display. In addition, the museum will incorporate Laguna Seca into museum-organized rallies, tours and special events.
 

"While our exhibits and displays are among the best in the world, there is nothing like seeing cars in their element on the road and track," said Terry L. Karges, executive director for the Petersen Automotive Museum. "Working with Laguna Seca is the ideal way to bring our museum to life and engage with the automotive community in an entirely new way."
 

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca will serve as an official destination and partner with the museum, hosting museum vehicles and collaborative events. It will also offer VIP access, unique experiences and exclusives for museum members. The organizations will also collaborate on co-branded merchandise. 
 

"This partnership is a wonderful way to build immersive experiences that connect automotive history with performance," said Mel Harder, WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca president and general manager. "We're excited to work with the Petersen team as we continue on our mission to restore and revitalize this historic facility."
 

For more information about the Petersen Automotive Museum, visit petersen.org. To learn more about WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca and its upcoming events, visit weathertechraceway.com.

 

Image courtesy of Petersen Automotive Museum

By Ashley Reyes

 

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has named Savannah Cranford, general manager at Motion Marine Customs, as the council's newest spotlight member. Get to know Cranford in her interview with SEMA News below. 
 

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling?  

Savannah Cranford: I've always loved creating, no matter what it is. I didn't know how to put it to use until I met my boss and his daughter, Shane Coulter and Hannah Coulter Neal. They believed in me, gave me the tools I needed and watched me run. Without them, I wouldn't have been able to pursue and enjoy the huge world of restyling/manufacturing. They inspired me to pursue this career and still inspire me every day to go further in it.

SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO?  

SC: My mentor and best friend, Hannah Neal, brought me to my first SEMA show with her in 2024. Until that show, I had never been around so many people with a 'go-get-em' mentality. Every person at the PRO booth was inspiring in their own way and I felt the drive and devotion before I even stepped foot in the booth. I learned many things from that first experience with the PRO group, but for the first time in my life I realized just how possible anything was if you work hard and take the right steps.

SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?  

SC: Talk more and listen most. Learning shouldn't be overlooked, especially in the automotive aftermarket, where there is so much to learn and so many people to learn from.

SN: What is your dream vehicle?  

SC: Porsche 911 Sally Carrera Model. You'd find me at Radiator Springs or at work.

SN: What is the best advice you have ever received?  

SC: Nothing is 'un-f-upable.' It's true and I wouldn't be where I am today otherwise. Starting something new or unknown shouldn't be scary. Even if you make a mistake, you can fix it. The worst thing you can do is not start something new out of fear of messing it up.

SN: What keeps you in the industry?  

SC: The unlimitedness of it. You really can just try anything if you have a team like mine who is willing.

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?  

SC: In my sunroom with my plants!

Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO's social media, SEMA News and future PRO-member updates.