Thu, 10/10/2013 - 11:25

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Legislation that would require headlights on motor vehicles to display a “white light” without defining the term has been introduced in the Ohio State Senate. The bill has been referred to the Senate Transportation Committee for consideration. Under federal law, all headlamps are required to comply with the color requirements contained in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. 

Under the lighting standard, it is possible to design a headlamp that can be perceived as having a blue tint but which nevertheless remains within the federal boundaries that define "white." It is illegal for a state to enact a law that would conflict with a federal standard. 

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

Thu, 10/10/2013 - 11:22

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Tuesday, November 5, 2013
LVCC N263C
9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Presenters:      

  • Merritt Blakeslee, The Blakeslee Law Firm
  • Steve Lustig, Dickinson Wright 
  • Robb Roby, Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear

Sponsored by ETTN, HRIA and MPMC

SEMA members have a unique opportunity to schedule a free one-on-one meeting with an intellectual property rights or customs attorney. Private meetings are available in 15-minute segments. Members can sign up for two segments each with any of the experts. Please specify your area of interest when you schedule your appointment, so that we can pair you with an attorney specializing in that discipline.  

Among the topics covered by our experts:

  • Counterfeit, unlawful knock-offs and legal imitations
  • Applying for a patent or registering trademarks and copyrights
  • Strategies for enforcing your rights in the United States and overseas 
  • New procedures for working with customs and the local ports

Don’t let this chance slip by. To schedule an appointment, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org or 202/783-6007, ext.30. 

Thu, 10/10/2013 - 11:22

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

Tuesday, November 5, 2013
LVCC N263C
9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Presenters:      

  • Merritt Blakeslee, The Blakeslee Law Firm
  • Steve Lustig, Dickinson Wright 
  • Robb Roby, Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear

Sponsored by ETTN, HRIA and MPMC

SEMA members have a unique opportunity to schedule a free one-on-one meeting with an intellectual property rights or customs attorney. Private meetings are available in 15-minute segments. Members can sign up for two segments each with any of the experts. Please specify your area of interest when you schedule your appointment, so that we can pair you with an attorney specializing in that discipline.  

Among the topics covered by our experts:

  • Counterfeit, unlawful knock-offs and legal imitations
  • Applying for a patent or registering trademarks and copyrights
  • Strategies for enforcing your rights in the United States and overseas 
  • New procedures for working with customs and the local ports

Don’t let this chance slip by. To schedule an appointment, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org or 202/783-6007, ext.30. 

Thu, 10/10/2013 - 11:07

Compiled by SEMA Editors

  line
Jason Line's Summit Racing Pro Stock Camaro.
  

Jason Line Wins Pro Stock at NHRA Fall-Nationals
Jason Line and the team at KB racing in Mooresville, North Carolina, started testing Holley’s new Gen-3 Ultra Dominator carburetor around mid-season, and have since racked up some impressive results. In September, Line and his Summit Racing Pro Stock Camaro was runner-up at the Carlyle Tools NHRA Carolina Nationals, won the AAA Texas NHRA FallNationals, and held the Low ET of Eliminations at the AAA Insurance NHRA Midwest Nationals.

Ray Scheetz Passes Away
Ray Scheetz passed away October 7 from complications with emphysema. His auto-racing career began at the end of World War II when his dad started preparations for the post-war competition aboard his Track Roadster. Scheetz took to the mechanic trade, and by his mid teens, had caught the attention of racing mechanic John Pouelsen who noticed Scheetz's attention to detail. Pouelsen offered Scheetz an opportunity to join his crew at Indianapolis as they took the Agajanian Special and Parnelli Jones to the Brickyard and victory in 1963. Pouelsen moved to the Bowes Seal-Fast team in 1964 through 1966 and took Scheetz along while campaigning with A.J. Foyt on the USAC trail.

Scheetz returned to Southern California racing action in 1968 as the race-car preparation specialist for the Morales Brothers, Don Peabody, Bill Sykes, Chuck Tucker, Billy Wilkerson, Skip Schuck and the Kazarian family. Some of the drivers who raced in Scheetz-prepared race cars were Howard Gardner, Nick Valenta, Ray Douglas, Bob Hogle, A.J. Foyt, Chuck Hulse, Rick Goudy, Colby Scroggin, Billy Wilkerson, Bobby Olivero, Bubby Jones, Don Johns, Bob Coulter and Ron Shuman, with Scheetz collecting 10 season championships. Combined, these drivers worked with Scheetz to amass a total of 155 sprint-car victories during his career.

In 1995 and 1996, Scheetz was active in the building of Perris Auto Speedway, fabricating many parts of the state-of-the-art catch fence. In his honor, Perris Auto Speedway will dedicate the 18th running of the Oval Nationals to Scheetz.

Thu, 10/10/2013 - 11:07

Compiled by SEMA Editors

  line
Jason Line's Summit Racing Pro Stock Camaro.
  

Jason Line Wins Pro Stock at NHRA Fall-Nationals
Jason Line and the team at KB racing in Mooresville, North Carolina, started testing Holley’s new Gen-3 Ultra Dominator carburetor around mid-season, and have since racked up some impressive results. In September, Line and his Summit Racing Pro Stock Camaro was runner-up at the Carlyle Tools NHRA Carolina Nationals, won the AAA Texas NHRA FallNationals, and held the Low ET of Eliminations at the AAA Insurance NHRA Midwest Nationals.

Ray Scheetz Passes Away
Ray Scheetz passed away October 7 from complications with emphysema. His auto-racing career began at the end of World War II when his dad started preparations for the post-war competition aboard his Track Roadster. Scheetz took to the mechanic trade, and by his mid teens, had caught the attention of racing mechanic John Pouelsen who noticed Scheetz's attention to detail. Pouelsen offered Scheetz an opportunity to join his crew at Indianapolis as they took the Agajanian Special and Parnelli Jones to the Brickyard and victory in 1963. Pouelsen moved to the Bowes Seal-Fast team in 1964 through 1966 and took Scheetz along while campaigning with A.J. Foyt on the USAC trail.

Scheetz returned to Southern California racing action in 1968 as the race-car preparation specialist for the Morales Brothers, Don Peabody, Bill Sykes, Chuck Tucker, Billy Wilkerson, Skip Schuck and the Kazarian family. Some of the drivers who raced in Scheetz-prepared race cars were Howard Gardner, Nick Valenta, Ray Douglas, Bob Hogle, A.J. Foyt, Chuck Hulse, Rick Goudy, Colby Scroggin, Billy Wilkerson, Bobby Olivero, Bubby Jones, Don Johns, Bob Coulter and Ron Shuman, with Scheetz collecting 10 season championships. Combined, these drivers worked with Scheetz to amass a total of 155 sprint-car victories during his career.

In 1995 and 1996, Scheetz was active in the building of Perris Auto Speedway, fabricating many parts of the state-of-the-art catch fence. In his honor, Perris Auto Speedway will dedicate the 18th running of the Oval Nationals to Scheetz.

Thu, 10/10/2013 - 10:03
 BedSlide/Takit, Joel Ayres
BedSlide/Takit promoted Vice President of Sales Joel Ayres to a full partner of the company.
  

BedSlide's Joel Ayres Promoted to Partner
BedSlide/Takit recently promoted Vice President of Sales Joel Ayres to a full partner of the company. With nearly 40 years of experience in the aftermarket truck accessory business, the company will call on his comprehensive knowledge of the industry and high level of expertise. Ayres' experience includes being a general manager of a manufacturing operation, overseeing a chain of retail stores, as well as being in charge of distribution and warehouse operations. For more than 19 years, he worked as national marketing direction for Truck Accessories Group (TAG), owners of national brands that include Leer, Pace Edwards, Raider and State Wide Aluminum.

Travis Weeks Named VP of Media for Goodguys

Travis Weeks, Goodguys
Automotive aftermarket industry executive Travis Weeks was named vice president of media for the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association.
 
  

The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association has hired automotive aftermarket industry executive Travis Weeks as vice president of media. He will oversee and manage all media properties for the Goodguys, serve as publisher for the Goodtimes Gazette and manage the company's video production. Weeks most recently served as publisher of Hotrod & Restoration Magazine and producer of the annual Hotrod & Restoration trade show in Indianapolis. He will begin his new position October 14. “We’re fortunate to snag an industry pro like Travis Weeks,” said Goodguys President Marc Meadors. “Travis brings a strong pedigree to the Goodguys team from both the publishing and editorial side but also from an event production perspective. His skills and professionalism will help to enhance and strengthen all of our media properties as we seek to continuously improve and grow our worldwide network of members and enthusiasts.”

25 Installers Achieve Avery Dennison Car Wrap Certification
Twenty-five graphic installers have achieved the Avery Dennison Car Wrap Certification in the United States and Canada so far in 2013. The certification is a two-part test that includes a written exam and hands-on vehicle wrap installation demonstration. The following graphics installers have been Avery Dennison-certified in 2013: Joe Alexander, Gecko Wraps; Antonio Arajuno, Wrap Effect; Jordon Boston, Revolution Wraps; Ray Carson, Sign Masters Signs; Ronnie Colon, Strictly Window Tint; Carlos Estrada, Car Wraps; Doyle Fuller, Complete Graphics; Mike Groves, Signs of Innovation; Ian Haerr, IH Installations; Jenna Hardy, Mario Design; Damien King, Icon Tinting and Graphics; Chris Komski, Signs for Success; Hoi Keung (Michael) Lee, Impressive Wrap; Trent Marshall, Industry Sign & Graphics; Douglas Mee, AB Installations Inc.; Patrick Mulreaney, AB Installations Inc.; Thien (Tim) Pham, The Wrap Artist; Pierre Tien, Shinzo Media Group; Tyler White, The Print Firm; Rich Wilke, Signs for Success; Steven Yu, Shinzo Media Group; Chris Zagst, Vector Graphics LLC; Valeriy Zakaryukin, V. Creative Graphics; Jianxin (Raymond) Zhao, Impressive Wrap, www.impressivewrap.com; Nick Zuk, Motor City Wraps. The 2013 Avery Dennison/Mutoh Car Wrap Training class October 28–30 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida is open. More information about the Wrap Training classes is available on the Avery Dennison website

Meyer Distributing Inc. Opens New Iowa Location
Meyer Distributing Inc. has added a new location in Iowa City, Iowa. The cross-dock will have a direct feed from Meyer's Jasper, Indiana, distribution hub. “The Iowa City cross-dock is another step in Meyer’s plan to set up improved infrastructure in the North Central United States,” states Cody Ziegler, director of business development for Meyer.

 Vic Wood, Aeromotive
Aeromotive Inc. has named Vic Wood its new vice president and general manager.
  

Vic Wood Chosen as Aeromotive VP and General Manager
Aeromotive Inc. has named Vic Wood its new vice president and general manager. According to the company, Wood will oversee operations, sales and marketing personnel in addition to an acting national sales manager role. In addition to years of professional experience in the automotive aftermarket, Wood is also a highly active member of SEMA, which includes his current position as chairman of the association's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC). His experience in the performance aftermarket spans from his native country Australia to working across the pacific rim, including responsibilities in Japan, China, New Zealand and South East Asia. He is also an accomplished racer and huge enthusiast. “It’s this level of passion, commitment and experience that we hope to take advantage of,” says Jack Hylton, Aeromotive CEO. “As many of us know and have learned, this is a passion based industry and without it, it’s a tough hill to climb. None of us are doubting Vic’s passion,” continued Hylton.

Robert Harrelson to Lead Human Resources for Yokohama  
Yokohama Tire Corp. has hired Robert Harrelson as its new vice president of human resources and administration. With his appointment, Harrelson will be responsible for the integration of human resources strategies, plans and programs across all of the company's North American operations. Harrelson replaces Rex Simpson, who retired in September. Prior to joining YTC, Harrelson was a senior director of human resources for Dr. Pepper Snapple Group North America and Mexico. He was also the senior director of human resources-supply chain for United Parcel Service. “Rob brings many years of strategic senior-level leadership in the human resources field,” said Takayuki Hamaya, YTC’s chief operating officer. “That can only serve to strengthen our company further as we recruit and retain talent, and create a highly positive work environment.” 

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.

Thu, 10/10/2013 - 09:57

By Jason Catullo

circus
Several hotels are available for less than $100 per night, including Circus Circus.

Still haven't booked rooms for the 2013 SEMA Show? Visit SEMAShow.com/travel and see the properties and rates available tailored to Showgoers' needs, whether they are looking for convenience, guaranteed low rates or both.

While other options are available, Travel Planners is the only housing company that is backed by SEMA. See the advantages, savings and of booking with Travel Planners through www.SEMAShow.com/travel.

Several hotels are available for less than $100 per night, including:

  • Best Western Mardi Gras – $85
  • Circus Circus – $65
  • Harrah’s – $95
  • Quad – $65
  • Luxor – $82
  • Riviera – $90
  • Stratosphere – $72
  • Tropicana – $79

The rates are guaranteed, while supplies last, with many deadlines hitting prior to the opening of the Show, as early as the first week of October.

In addition to low prices, navigating Las Vegas parking and traffic or finding daily transportation to the Show makes hotel convenience a major consideration for attendees and exhibitors. The following hotels are all within walking distance of the SEMA Show: Best Western Mardi Gras, Las Vegas Marriott, LVH, Residence Inn – Convention Center, SpringHill Suites, Renaissance Las Vegas, Embassy Suites – Convention Center, Riviera Hotel and Hilton Grand Vacations Suites – Las Vegas.

Showgoers making reservations through Travel Planners will benefit from the company's Lowest Rate Assurance, which the company negotiates into every hotel contract to provide lowest-rate guarantees for attendees and exhibitors. Even if rooms are already reserved, Travel Planners will lower the rate automatically and confirm the savings by e-mail.

More Benefits of Booking With Travel Planners

  • No service fees charged
  • Update or cancel reservations up to three days prior to the Show without fees or penalties
  • Immediate confirmation upon making reservations
  • On-site assistance from Travel Planners staff at the SEMA Show
  • Pre-negotiated rates don't change regardless of when rooms are booked (space providing).

For more information on the 2013 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Thu, 10/10/2013 - 09:57

By Jason Catullo

circus
Several hotels are available for less than $100 per night, including Circus Circus.

Still haven't booked rooms for the 2013 SEMA Show? Visit SEMAShow.com/travel and see the properties and rates available tailored to Showgoers' needs, whether they are looking for convenience, guaranteed low rates or both.

While other options are available, Travel Planners is the only housing company that is backed by SEMA. See the advantages, savings and of booking with Travel Planners through www.SEMAShow.com/travel.

Several hotels are available for less than $100 per night, including:

  • Best Western Mardi Gras – $85
  • Circus Circus – $65
  • Harrah’s – $95
  • Quad – $65
  • Luxor – $82
  • Riviera – $90
  • Stratosphere – $72
  • Tropicana – $79

The rates are guaranteed, while supplies last, with many deadlines hitting prior to the opening of the Show, as early as the first week of October.

In addition to low prices, navigating Las Vegas parking and traffic or finding daily transportation to the Show makes hotel convenience a major consideration for attendees and exhibitors. The following hotels are all within walking distance of the SEMA Show: Best Western Mardi Gras, Las Vegas Marriott, LVH, Residence Inn – Convention Center, SpringHill Suites, Renaissance Las Vegas, Embassy Suites – Convention Center, Riviera Hotel and Hilton Grand Vacations Suites – Las Vegas.

Showgoers making reservations through Travel Planners will benefit from the company's Lowest Rate Assurance, which the company negotiates into every hotel contract to provide lowest-rate guarantees for attendees and exhibitors. Even if rooms are already reserved, Travel Planners will lower the rate automatically and confirm the savings by e-mail.

More Benefits of Booking With Travel Planners

  • No service fees charged
  • Update or cancel reservations up to three days prior to the Show without fees or penalties
  • Immediate confirmation upon making reservations
  • On-site assistance from Travel Planners staff at the SEMA Show
  • Pre-negotiated rates don't change regardless of when rooms are booked (space providing).

For more information on the 2013 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Thu, 10/10/2013 - 09:57

By Jason Catullo

circus
Several hotels are available for less than $100 per night, including Circus Circus.

Still haven't booked rooms for the 2013 SEMA Show? Visit SEMAShow.com/travel and see the properties and rates available tailored to Showgoers' needs, whether they are looking for convenience, guaranteed low rates or both.

While other options are available, Travel Planners is the only housing company that is backed by SEMA. See the advantages, savings and of booking with Travel Planners through www.SEMAShow.com/travel.

Several hotels are available for less than $100 per night, including:

  • Best Western Mardi Gras – $85
  • Circus Circus – $65
  • Harrah’s – $95
  • Quad – $65
  • Luxor – $82
  • Riviera – $90
  • Stratosphere – $72
  • Tropicana – $79

The rates are guaranteed, while supplies last, with many deadlines hitting prior to the opening of the Show, as early as the first week of October.

In addition to low prices, navigating Las Vegas parking and traffic or finding daily transportation to the Show makes hotel convenience a major consideration for attendees and exhibitors. The following hotels are all within walking distance of the SEMA Show: Best Western Mardi Gras, Las Vegas Marriott, LVH, Residence Inn – Convention Center, SpringHill Suites, Renaissance Las Vegas, Embassy Suites – Convention Center, Riviera Hotel and Hilton Grand Vacations Suites – Las Vegas.

Showgoers making reservations through Travel Planners will benefit from the company's Lowest Rate Assurance, which the company negotiates into every hotel contract to provide lowest-rate guarantees for attendees and exhibitors. Even if rooms are already reserved, Travel Planners will lower the rate automatically and confirm the savings by e-mail.

More Benefits of Booking With Travel Planners

  • No service fees charged
  • Update or cancel reservations up to three days prior to the Show without fees or penalties
  • Immediate confirmation upon making reservations
  • On-site assistance from Travel Planners staff at the SEMA Show
  • Pre-negotiated rates don't change regardless of when rooms are booked (space providing).

For more information on the 2013 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Thu, 10/10/2013 - 09:57

By Jason Catullo

circus
Several hotels are available for less than $100 per night, including Circus Circus.

Still haven't booked rooms for the 2013 SEMA Show? Visit SEMAShow.com/travel and see the properties and rates available tailored to Showgoers' needs, whether they are looking for convenience, guaranteed low rates or both.

While other options are available, Travel Planners is the only housing company that is backed by SEMA. See the advantages, savings and of booking with Travel Planners through www.SEMAShow.com/travel.

Several hotels are available for less than $100 per night, including:

  • Best Western Mardi Gras – $85
  • Circus Circus – $65
  • Harrah’s – $95
  • Quad – $65
  • Luxor – $82
  • Riviera – $90
  • Stratosphere – $72
  • Tropicana – $79

The rates are guaranteed, while supplies last, with many deadlines hitting prior to the opening of the Show, as early as the first week of October.

In addition to low prices, navigating Las Vegas parking and traffic or finding daily transportation to the Show makes hotel convenience a major consideration for attendees and exhibitors. The following hotels are all within walking distance of the SEMA Show: Best Western Mardi Gras, Las Vegas Marriott, LVH, Residence Inn – Convention Center, SpringHill Suites, Renaissance Las Vegas, Embassy Suites – Convention Center, Riviera Hotel and Hilton Grand Vacations Suites – Las Vegas.

Showgoers making reservations through Travel Planners will benefit from the company's Lowest Rate Assurance, which the company negotiates into every hotel contract to provide lowest-rate guarantees for attendees and exhibitors. Even if rooms are already reserved, Travel Planners will lower the rate automatically and confirm the savings by e-mail.

More Benefits of Booking With Travel Planners

  • No service fees charged
  • Update or cancel reservations up to three days prior to the Show without fees or penalties
  • Immediate confirmation upon making reservations
  • On-site assistance from Travel Planners staff at the SEMA Show
  • Pre-negotiated rates don't change regardless of when rooms are booked (space providing).

For more information on the 2013 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.SEMAShow.com.