SEMA News—October 2013

BUSINESS
By Mike Imlay

Retailer Spotlight

Evasive Motorsports Builds e-Commerce Through Event Participation

	Evasive Motorsports has built a thriving e-Commerce/brick-and-mortar mix through active participation in racing and other motorsports events.

What does it mean to be brick-and-mortar in the modern aftermarket business scene? Does it mean having a shop with a traditional storefront filled with inventory and displays to attract walk-in clients? Or does it mean a building stocked with inventory, with items often previewed or even ordered online, with a simple reception counter for a cadre of customers who come through the door to pick up and install those items? And what about having a full-service shop for building and tuning cars, complete with two-post lifts, fabrication facilities and a dynamometer?

That’s the question that arises about a business like Evasive Motorsports in Santa Fe Springs, California—it defies traditional classification. And yet it clearly represents a growing trend in the way performance parts are sold from a brick-and-mortar facility.

Founded just over a decade ago by business partners Mike Chang and Tony Kwan, Evasive Motorsports specializes in aftermarket parts sales, race prep and tuning for a serious following of motorsports clients.

“Most of our sales are e-Commerce,” said Chang. “Obviously, we also advertise our address so that if people want to pick up parts from our web store, they can come on in. But there’s really not much to see when you come here, because we still want to keep things pretty much low key. We’re not trying to attract a bunch of people with a storefront. People who know who we are come to us.”

Added Kwan: “We sell everything across the board. There’s nothing in particular that we specialize in. Since we sell so many items, we can pretty much tell you the ins and outs of products that fit your needs. In the past, our parts skewed more Japanese. We’re exploring more European products now, too.”

Executive Summary
Evasive Motorsports 11829 Hamden Pl. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 626-336-3400 www.evasivemotorsports.com Mike Chang Co-Owner Tony Kwan Co-Owner 10 employees. Specializes in online performance-parts sales as well as brick-and-mortar race prep and tuning. On-site services include installations, fabrication and dyno testing. Heavy participation in local racing events has helped build brand loyalty among customers. Has topped the $4 million mark in annual revenue.

Built on Passion

For Chang and Kwan, the business began as a hobby while they were in their early 20s. Coming from motorsports backgrounds themselves, parts sales seemed like a nice little sideline back in 2009.

“It was a completely different market back then than it is now,” said Chang. “The business was definitely a much smaller operation. It was something we did on the side. We never thought we’d grow to this point. The most important thing is that we’re both enthusiasts ourselves, so a lot of time selling these parts or just talking to customers and knowing what we were talking about helped grow the company.”

“At first we operated out of a house,” recalled Kwan. “From there, it kind of snowballed. One thing led to another, and we slowly grew into a bigger facility. We realized that we had outgrown things in just a few years and just kept moving on.”

Today, Evasive Motorsports is situated in a 12,000-sq.-ft. facility in a relatively industrial area of Southern California. The shop features four two-post lifts for installations and working on vehicles as well as a four-wheel-drive dyno and a full fabrication setup.

“Basically, the only thing we’re lacking here is a paint booth,” laughed Chang. “Body work is the only thing we can’t do here for our customers, but our goal is to be a one-stop jobber for them. When they come here, they can get everything else they need done.”

According to Kwan, Evasive tends to attract a younger customer base, mainly 18 to 30.

	Mike Chang (left) and Tony Kwan, co-owners of Evasive Motorsports, said their business is on target to top $4 million in revenue this year.

“That may sound like a broad range,” he said, “but we consider it a pretty young crowd. The cars that come in fit that demographic, too. We relate really well with our customers. I think that’s one of our key advantages to being successful to this point. Customers see us as them—we’re talking about cars with them.”

Actually, Chang and Kwan are racing with their customers. This past year, the Evasive crew did the Pike’s Peak run for the very first time. A few years ago, they participated in the famous annual Long Beach Grand Prix. Evasive vehicles can also be sighted burning up the tracks at a variety of Southern California events. That, said Chang and Kwan, is the key to their success.

“It’s doing events like those that really sets us apart,” said Kwan. “You look at other companies or shops that make up our competition, and they might sell the same parts that we sell—they might even sell more parts than we sell—but not many of them can say they’re out there doing motorsports themselves. We earn customer respect that way.”

Chang agreed: “We don’t just sell parts. Every business is about money, so obviously we hope to make money. But we’re out there on the racetrack with our customers. We pride ourselves on building cars that set a standard.”

Challenges, Success

	Evasive’s 12,000-sq.-ft. facility boasts expert fabrication services plus four installation bays and a four-wheel-drive dyno.

Like almost every recent industry startup, however, the initial ride was bumpy for Evasive.

“The recession that hit everyone was also tough for us,” said Chang. “Before that, things were great and everybody was buying parts. It looked like things were never going to stop. Then, all of a sudden, within a few months, we went from booming business to no business. But that was a challenging time not only for us, but for the whole industry. Making it past 2007 to 2008 was a big accomplishment for us. That’s when a lot of businesses had to close doors.”

“Luckily all the challenges that we’ve had, we’ve seemed to overcome,” added Kwan. “In general, the most challenging thing is the amount of competition in this industry. But I think we have a good team where our communication is good enough that we can stay afloat and try to keep the lead. It’s a challenge to always try to get to that next level. That’s why we went to Pike’s Peak this past year. We wanted to do something that was more challenging—something that we hadn’t done before.”

Chang and Kwan’s patience and approach to business have definitely paid off over time.

“We’ve been growing steadily ever since we started,” observed Kwan. “This year, we’re on target to reach between $4 and $8 million in revenue.”

As for advice to other retailers, the partners strongly believe in “playing by the rules.”

“People come into this industry thinking they can just list stuff on eBay and sell it for cheap and get a lot of customers, but that attitude doesn’t just hurt themselves—it hurts manufacturers and everybody in the whole chain, the whole network,” said Chang. “People should know that certain things are ethical, not just to your customers but to your fellow competitors. In the long run, unethical behavior only hurts yourself.”

Kwan agreed: “If you’re going to get into this business, it should be something that you love. The money will come later. You don’t just jump in to make a quick buck. You jump in because you love it.”

SEMA News—October 2013

BUSINESS
By Mike Imlay

Retailer Spotlight

Evasive Motorsports Builds e-Commerce Through Event Participation

	Evasive Motorsports has built a thriving e-Commerce/brick-and-mortar mix through active participation in racing and other motorsports events.

What does it mean to be brick-and-mortar in the modern aftermarket business scene? Does it mean having a shop with a traditional storefront filled with inventory and displays to attract walk-in clients? Or does it mean a building stocked with inventory, with items often previewed or even ordered online, with a simple reception counter for a cadre of customers who come through the door to pick up and install those items? And what about having a full-service shop for building and tuning cars, complete with two-post lifts, fabrication facilities and a dynamometer?

That’s the question that arises about a business like Evasive Motorsports in Santa Fe Springs, California—it defies traditional classification. And yet it clearly represents a growing trend in the way performance parts are sold from a brick-and-mortar facility.

Founded just over a decade ago by business partners Mike Chang and Tony Kwan, Evasive Motorsports specializes in aftermarket parts sales, race prep and tuning for a serious following of motorsports clients.

“Most of our sales are e-Commerce,” said Chang. “Obviously, we also advertise our address so that if people want to pick up parts from our web store, they can come on in. But there’s really not much to see when you come here, because we still want to keep things pretty much low key. We’re not trying to attract a bunch of people with a storefront. People who know who we are come to us.”

Added Kwan: “We sell everything across the board. There’s nothing in particular that we specialize in. Since we sell so many items, we can pretty much tell you the ins and outs of products that fit your needs. In the past, our parts skewed more Japanese. We’re exploring more European products now, too.”

Executive Summary
Evasive Motorsports 11829 Hamden Pl. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 626-336-3400 www.evasivemotorsports.com Mike Chang Co-Owner Tony Kwan Co-Owner 10 employees. Specializes in online performance-parts sales as well as brick-and-mortar race prep and tuning. On-site services include installations, fabrication and dyno testing. Heavy participation in local racing events has helped build brand loyalty among customers. Has topped the $4 million mark in annual revenue.

Built on Passion

For Chang and Kwan, the business began as a hobby while they were in their early 20s. Coming from motorsports backgrounds themselves, parts sales seemed like a nice little sideline back in 2009.

“It was a completely different market back then than it is now,” said Chang. “The business was definitely a much smaller operation. It was something we did on the side. We never thought we’d grow to this point. The most important thing is that we’re both enthusiasts ourselves, so a lot of time selling these parts or just talking to customers and knowing what we were talking about helped grow the company.”

“At first we operated out of a house,” recalled Kwan. “From there, it kind of snowballed. One thing led to another, and we slowly grew into a bigger facility. We realized that we had outgrown things in just a few years and just kept moving on.”

Today, Evasive Motorsports is situated in a 12,000-sq.-ft. facility in a relatively industrial area of Southern California. The shop features four two-post lifts for installations and working on vehicles as well as a four-wheel-drive dyno and a full fabrication setup.

“Basically, the only thing we’re lacking here is a paint booth,” laughed Chang. “Body work is the only thing we can’t do here for our customers, but our goal is to be a one-stop jobber for them. When they come here, they can get everything else they need done.”

According to Kwan, Evasive tends to attract a younger customer base, mainly 18 to 30.

	Mike Chang (left) and Tony Kwan, co-owners of Evasive Motorsports, said their business is on target to top $4 million in revenue this year.

“That may sound like a broad range,” he said, “but we consider it a pretty young crowd. The cars that come in fit that demographic, too. We relate really well with our customers. I think that’s one of our key advantages to being successful to this point. Customers see us as them—we’re talking about cars with them.”

Actually, Chang and Kwan are racing with their customers. This past year, the Evasive crew did the Pike’s Peak run for the very first time. A few years ago, they participated in the famous annual Long Beach Grand Prix. Evasive vehicles can also be sighted burning up the tracks at a variety of Southern California events. That, said Chang and Kwan, is the key to their success.

“It’s doing events like those that really sets us apart,” said Kwan. “You look at other companies or shops that make up our competition, and they might sell the same parts that we sell—they might even sell more parts than we sell—but not many of them can say they’re out there doing motorsports themselves. We earn customer respect that way.”

Chang agreed: “We don’t just sell parts. Every business is about money, so obviously we hope to make money. But we’re out there on the racetrack with our customers. We pride ourselves on building cars that set a standard.”

Challenges, Success

	Evasive’s 12,000-sq.-ft. facility boasts expert fabrication services plus four installation bays and a four-wheel-drive dyno.

Like almost every recent industry startup, however, the initial ride was bumpy for Evasive.

“The recession that hit everyone was also tough for us,” said Chang. “Before that, things were great and everybody was buying parts. It looked like things were never going to stop. Then, all of a sudden, within a few months, we went from booming business to no business. But that was a challenging time not only for us, but for the whole industry. Making it past 2007 to 2008 was a big accomplishment for us. That’s when a lot of businesses had to close doors.”

“Luckily all the challenges that we’ve had, we’ve seemed to overcome,” added Kwan. “In general, the most challenging thing is the amount of competition in this industry. But I think we have a good team where our communication is good enough that we can stay afloat and try to keep the lead. It’s a challenge to always try to get to that next level. That’s why we went to Pike’s Peak this past year. We wanted to do something that was more challenging—something that we hadn’t done before.”

Chang and Kwan’s patience and approach to business have definitely paid off over time.

“We’ve been growing steadily ever since we started,” observed Kwan. “This year, we’re on target to reach between $4 and $8 million in revenue.”

As for advice to other retailers, the partners strongly believe in “playing by the rules.”

“People come into this industry thinking they can just list stuff on eBay and sell it for cheap and get a lot of customers, but that attitude doesn’t just hurt themselves—it hurts manufacturers and everybody in the whole chain, the whole network,” said Chang. “People should know that certain things are ethical, not just to your customers but to your fellow competitors. In the long run, unethical behavior only hurts yourself.”

Kwan agreed: “If you’re going to get into this business, it should be something that you love. The money will come later. You don’t just jump in to make a quick buck. You jump in because you love it.”

SEMA News—October 2013

BUSINESS
By Mike Imlay

Retailer Spotlight

Evasive Motorsports Builds e-Commerce Through Event Participation

	Evasive Motorsports has built a thriving e-Commerce/brick-and-mortar mix through active participation in racing and other motorsports events.

What does it mean to be brick-and-mortar in the modern aftermarket business scene? Does it mean having a shop with a traditional storefront filled with inventory and displays to attract walk-in clients? Or does it mean a building stocked with inventory, with items often previewed or even ordered online, with a simple reception counter for a cadre of customers who come through the door to pick up and install those items? And what about having a full-service shop for building and tuning cars, complete with two-post lifts, fabrication facilities and a dynamometer?

That’s the question that arises about a business like Evasive Motorsports in Santa Fe Springs, California—it defies traditional classification. And yet it clearly represents a growing trend in the way performance parts are sold from a brick-and-mortar facility.

Founded just over a decade ago by business partners Mike Chang and Tony Kwan, Evasive Motorsports specializes in aftermarket parts sales, race prep and tuning for a serious following of motorsports clients.

“Most of our sales are e-Commerce,” said Chang. “Obviously, we also advertise our address so that if people want to pick up parts from our web store, they can come on in. But there’s really not much to see when you come here, because we still want to keep things pretty much low key. We’re not trying to attract a bunch of people with a storefront. People who know who we are come to us.”

Added Kwan: “We sell everything across the board. There’s nothing in particular that we specialize in. Since we sell so many items, we can pretty much tell you the ins and outs of products that fit your needs. In the past, our parts skewed more Japanese. We’re exploring more European products now, too.”

Executive Summary
Evasive Motorsports 11829 Hamden Pl. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 626-336-3400 www.evasivemotorsports.com Mike Chang Co-Owner Tony Kwan Co-Owner 10 employees. Specializes in online performance-parts sales as well as brick-and-mortar race prep and tuning. On-site services include installations, fabrication and dyno testing. Heavy participation in local racing events has helped build brand loyalty among customers. Has topped the $4 million mark in annual revenue.

Built on Passion

For Chang and Kwan, the business began as a hobby while they were in their early 20s. Coming from motorsports backgrounds themselves, parts sales seemed like a nice little sideline back in 2009.

“It was a completely different market back then than it is now,” said Chang. “The business was definitely a much smaller operation. It was something we did on the side. We never thought we’d grow to this point. The most important thing is that we’re both enthusiasts ourselves, so a lot of time selling these parts or just talking to customers and knowing what we were talking about helped grow the company.”

“At first we operated out of a house,” recalled Kwan. “From there, it kind of snowballed. One thing led to another, and we slowly grew into a bigger facility. We realized that we had outgrown things in just a few years and just kept moving on.”

Today, Evasive Motorsports is situated in a 12,000-sq.-ft. facility in a relatively industrial area of Southern California. The shop features four two-post lifts for installations and working on vehicles as well as a four-wheel-drive dyno and a full fabrication setup.

“Basically, the only thing we’re lacking here is a paint booth,” laughed Chang. “Body work is the only thing we can’t do here for our customers, but our goal is to be a one-stop jobber for them. When they come here, they can get everything else they need done.”

According to Kwan, Evasive tends to attract a younger customer base, mainly 18 to 30.

	Mike Chang (left) and Tony Kwan, co-owners of Evasive Motorsports, said their business is on target to top $4 million in revenue this year.

“That may sound like a broad range,” he said, “but we consider it a pretty young crowd. The cars that come in fit that demographic, too. We relate really well with our customers. I think that’s one of our key advantages to being successful to this point. Customers see us as them—we’re talking about cars with them.”

Actually, Chang and Kwan are racing with their customers. This past year, the Evasive crew did the Pike’s Peak run for the very first time. A few years ago, they participated in the famous annual Long Beach Grand Prix. Evasive vehicles can also be sighted burning up the tracks at a variety of Southern California events. That, said Chang and Kwan, is the key to their success.

“It’s doing events like those that really sets us apart,” said Kwan. “You look at other companies or shops that make up our competition, and they might sell the same parts that we sell—they might even sell more parts than we sell—but not many of them can say they’re out there doing motorsports themselves. We earn customer respect that way.”

Chang agreed: “We don’t just sell parts. Every business is about money, so obviously we hope to make money. But we’re out there on the racetrack with our customers. We pride ourselves on building cars that set a standard.”

Challenges, Success

	Evasive’s 12,000-sq.-ft. facility boasts expert fabrication services plus four installation bays and a four-wheel-drive dyno.

Like almost every recent industry startup, however, the initial ride was bumpy for Evasive.

“The recession that hit everyone was also tough for us,” said Chang. “Before that, things were great and everybody was buying parts. It looked like things were never going to stop. Then, all of a sudden, within a few months, we went from booming business to no business. But that was a challenging time not only for us, but for the whole industry. Making it past 2007 to 2008 was a big accomplishment for us. That’s when a lot of businesses had to close doors.”

“Luckily all the challenges that we’ve had, we’ve seemed to overcome,” added Kwan. “In general, the most challenging thing is the amount of competition in this industry. But I think we have a good team where our communication is good enough that we can stay afloat and try to keep the lead. It’s a challenge to always try to get to that next level. That’s why we went to Pike’s Peak this past year. We wanted to do something that was more challenging—something that we hadn’t done before.”

Chang and Kwan’s patience and approach to business have definitely paid off over time.

“We’ve been growing steadily ever since we started,” observed Kwan. “This year, we’re on target to reach between $4 and $8 million in revenue.”

As for advice to other retailers, the partners strongly believe in “playing by the rules.”

“People come into this industry thinking they can just list stuff on eBay and sell it for cheap and get a lot of customers, but that attitude doesn’t just hurt themselves—it hurts manufacturers and everybody in the whole chain, the whole network,” said Chang. “People should know that certain things are ethical, not just to your customers but to your fellow competitors. In the long run, unethical behavior only hurts yourself.”

Kwan agreed: “If you’re going to get into this business, it should be something that you love. The money will come later. You don’t just jump in to make a quick buck. You jump in because you love it.”

SEMA News—October 2013

BUSINESS
By Mike Imlay

Retailer Spotlight

Evasive Motorsports Builds e-Commerce Through Event Participation

	Evasive Motorsports has built a thriving e-Commerce/brick-and-mortar mix through active participation in racing and other motorsports events.

What does it mean to be brick-and-mortar in the modern aftermarket business scene? Does it mean having a shop with a traditional storefront filled with inventory and displays to attract walk-in clients? Or does it mean a building stocked with inventory, with items often previewed or even ordered online, with a simple reception counter for a cadre of customers who come through the door to pick up and install those items? And what about having a full-service shop for building and tuning cars, complete with two-post lifts, fabrication facilities and a dynamometer?

That’s the question that arises about a business like Evasive Motorsports in Santa Fe Springs, California—it defies traditional classification. And yet it clearly represents a growing trend in the way performance parts are sold from a brick-and-mortar facility.

Founded just over a decade ago by business partners Mike Chang and Tony Kwan, Evasive Motorsports specializes in aftermarket parts sales, race prep and tuning for a serious following of motorsports clients.

“Most of our sales are e-Commerce,” said Chang. “Obviously, we also advertise our address so that if people want to pick up parts from our web store, they can come on in. But there’s really not much to see when you come here, because we still want to keep things pretty much low key. We’re not trying to attract a bunch of people with a storefront. People who know who we are come to us.”

Added Kwan: “We sell everything across the board. There’s nothing in particular that we specialize in. Since we sell so many items, we can pretty much tell you the ins and outs of products that fit your needs. In the past, our parts skewed more Japanese. We’re exploring more European products now, too.”

Executive Summary
Evasive Motorsports 11829 Hamden Pl. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 626-336-3400 www.evasivemotorsports.com Mike Chang Co-Owner Tony Kwan Co-Owner 10 employees. Specializes in online performance-parts sales as well as brick-and-mortar race prep and tuning. On-site services include installations, fabrication and dyno testing. Heavy participation in local racing events has helped build brand loyalty among customers. Has topped the $4 million mark in annual revenue.

Built on Passion

For Chang and Kwan, the business began as a hobby while they were in their early 20s. Coming from motorsports backgrounds themselves, parts sales seemed like a nice little sideline back in 2009.

“It was a completely different market back then than it is now,” said Chang. “The business was definitely a much smaller operation. It was something we did on the side. We never thought we’d grow to this point. The most important thing is that we’re both enthusiasts ourselves, so a lot of time selling these parts or just talking to customers and knowing what we were talking about helped grow the company.”

“At first we operated out of a house,” recalled Kwan. “From there, it kind of snowballed. One thing led to another, and we slowly grew into a bigger facility. We realized that we had outgrown things in just a few years and just kept moving on.”

Today, Evasive Motorsports is situated in a 12,000-sq.-ft. facility in a relatively industrial area of Southern California. The shop features four two-post lifts for installations and working on vehicles as well as a four-wheel-drive dyno and a full fabrication setup.

“Basically, the only thing we’re lacking here is a paint booth,” laughed Chang. “Body work is the only thing we can’t do here for our customers, but our goal is to be a one-stop jobber for them. When they come here, they can get everything else they need done.”

According to Kwan, Evasive tends to attract a younger customer base, mainly 18 to 30.

	Mike Chang (left) and Tony Kwan, co-owners of Evasive Motorsports, said their business is on target to top $4 million in revenue this year.

“That may sound like a broad range,” he said, “but we consider it a pretty young crowd. The cars that come in fit that demographic, too. We relate really well with our customers. I think that’s one of our key advantages to being successful to this point. Customers see us as them—we’re talking about cars with them.”

Actually, Chang and Kwan are racing with their customers. This past year, the Evasive crew did the Pike’s Peak run for the very first time. A few years ago, they participated in the famous annual Long Beach Grand Prix. Evasive vehicles can also be sighted burning up the tracks at a variety of Southern California events. That, said Chang and Kwan, is the key to their success.

“It’s doing events like those that really sets us apart,” said Kwan. “You look at other companies or shops that make up our competition, and they might sell the same parts that we sell—they might even sell more parts than we sell—but not many of them can say they’re out there doing motorsports themselves. We earn customer respect that way.”

Chang agreed: “We don’t just sell parts. Every business is about money, so obviously we hope to make money. But we’re out there on the racetrack with our customers. We pride ourselves on building cars that set a standard.”

Challenges, Success

	Evasive’s 12,000-sq.-ft. facility boasts expert fabrication services plus four installation bays and a four-wheel-drive dyno.

Like almost every recent industry startup, however, the initial ride was bumpy for Evasive.

“The recession that hit everyone was also tough for us,” said Chang. “Before that, things were great and everybody was buying parts. It looked like things were never going to stop. Then, all of a sudden, within a few months, we went from booming business to no business. But that was a challenging time not only for us, but for the whole industry. Making it past 2007 to 2008 was a big accomplishment for us. That’s when a lot of businesses had to close doors.”

“Luckily all the challenges that we’ve had, we’ve seemed to overcome,” added Kwan. “In general, the most challenging thing is the amount of competition in this industry. But I think we have a good team where our communication is good enough that we can stay afloat and try to keep the lead. It’s a challenge to always try to get to that next level. That’s why we went to Pike’s Peak this past year. We wanted to do something that was more challenging—something that we hadn’t done before.”

Chang and Kwan’s patience and approach to business have definitely paid off over time.

“We’ve been growing steadily ever since we started,” observed Kwan. “This year, we’re on target to reach between $4 and $8 million in revenue.”

As for advice to other retailers, the partners strongly believe in “playing by the rules.”

“People come into this industry thinking they can just list stuff on eBay and sell it for cheap and get a lot of customers, but that attitude doesn’t just hurt themselves—it hurts manufacturers and everybody in the whole chain, the whole network,” said Chang. “People should know that certain things are ethical, not just to your customers but to your fellow competitors. In the long run, unethical behavior only hurts yourself.”

Kwan agreed: “If you’re going to get into this business, it should be something that you love. The money will come later. You don’t just jump in to make a quick buck. You jump in because you love it.”

SEMA News—October 2013

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Leadership Days

Annual Summit and Gala Mark Association’s 50th Year

	Incoming SEMA Chairman Nate Shelton introduced himself before a gathering of more than 400 industry professionals at the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on Friday, July 26. Held at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, the celebration capped several days of high-level SEMA leadership activities.

As the specialty-equipment industry’s premier trade association, SEMA relies on elected volunteers to serve on its Board of Directors and in positions of council leadership. Representing every segment of the automotive aftermarket, these industry professionals are dedicated to the advancement of marketing, regulatory and business standards and practices that promote industry growth for all. In short, they are on the front lines identifying challenges and opportunities facing the industry and crafting policies and programs to address them. To support and recognize their efforts, SEMA holds a series of intensive Leadership Days events each year, with this year’s gathering held principally at the Sheraton Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona, California, July 24–25.

As in prior years, the 2013 SEMA Leadership Days consisted of a series of Board of Directors and council leadership summit meetings. Traditionally, these high-level gatherings have three main purposes. First, they provide training for the volunteer leaders. Next, they highlight critical industry issues and opportunities for collaboration among SEMA’s 10 councils. Finally, they seek to promote an atmosphere of open and honest dialogue among the Board of Directors, the 20 council chairs and the council chairs-elect.

“In recent years, we’ve striven to promote even greater synergy between SEMA’s Board of Directors and the association’s councils’ chairs. Annual Leadership Days meetings have become a key component in that goal,” said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting. “More than ever before, SEMA’s councils now are engaged with the Board’s strategic planning process. It’s always great to gather these volunteer leaders in one place for several days to further communication and collaboration on the issues and initiatives the specialty-equipment industry most cares about.”

Pinewood Drag Racing

	SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (standing) addressed the council leadership during a SEMA Leadership Days conference. Each July, Board members and council leaders gather in summit meetings to chart the association’s direction for the coming year.
	The 2013 Leadership Days briefings included firsthand tours of the new SEMA Garage facilities at the association’s headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. Designed to assist membership with product development and marketing, the SEMA Garage boasts two bays for testing product fitment as well as meeting space, a photo studio, 3-D scanning and printing capabilities and a dynamometer.
	John Rosanbalm of Conklin Co. (left) and Dan Kahn of Kahn Media listened intently during one of the week’s many council gatherings.

After a morning of meetings, the July 26 Leadership Days social activities kicked off in the afternoon with the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races benefitting SEMA Cares, the association’s charity arm. The winners, by class, included:

Build It for Me

• 1st place: Champion Spark Plugs (Victory Junction Camp)
• 2nd place: Travis White, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Champion Spark Plugs (Childhelp)
• 4th place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 5th place: Mike Spagnola
• 6th place: Robert Florine

Stock Class

• 1st place: Tom Gattuso, SEMA
• 2nd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 3rd place: Dave Williams, Rampage Products

Modified Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Ryleigh Williams, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Regis Finn, MyteeBrite Group/ETTN

Unlimited Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.

Total Unlimited

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 4th place: Russell Stephens, MSD
• 5th place: MagnaFlow

Council Cup

• 1st place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 2nd place: Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
• 3rd place: Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA)

Menzler Class

• 1st place: Joel Ayres
• 2nd place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 3rd place: Jay Rohrback
• 4th place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 5th place: Robert Florine
• 6th place: Sarah Burgess
• 7th place: Stephen Wolcott
• 8th place: Sue Figueroa

Builders Race

For the fourth consecutive year, Derek White from Street Visions won the Builders Race. This year’s car was a John Menzler tribute—a hi-boy-style coupe.

“Trim Parts was pleased to participate in the 2013 SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, and we were fortunate to come away with an overall win, including a first and second place in Unlimited and a first place in Modified,” said Mitch Williams. “We built a new car this year, which was a complete unknown, but it worked and ran a time of 2.90 compared to our second-place car at 2.91. The second-place car was a previous three-time overall winner of the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races and had never lost. Both of these cars are now recognized as the fastest Pinewood Drag Race cars in North America and possibly the world. We hope other SEMA members will join this event as a way to showcase their engineering and creative capabilities and support very worthy causes at the same time. We believe very strongly that this SEMA event is making a difference in the lives of young people through these great charities, and we are honored to be a part of it.”

SEMA council leaders also took a brief time out from their series of meetings for a group photo. SEMA’s councils address standards, practices and issues facing specific segments of the aftermarket industry.		Camaraderie and networking highlighted the evening of July 26, as hundreds of industry professionals gathered for a social mixer that was followed by a gala dinner celebrating incoming SEMA leaders, thanking outgoing volunteers and introducing the year’s Hall of Fame inductees.		SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (right) greeted famous customizer and 2013 SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris, creator of the iconic Batmobile. The television vehicle was just one of many outstanding collector’s vehicles on display at Pomona’s Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center on July 26.

SEMA Gala Celebration

	The July 26 festivities included the inauguration of the 2013–2014 SEMA Board of Directors, led by incoming Chairman Nate Shelton (front center). He is flanked on the left by Immediate Past Chairman Paul “Scooter” Brothers and, on the right, by Chairman-Elect Doug Evans.

The annual Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, an event in which the association thanks its outgoing Board of Directors members and welcomes those who have been newly elected, always caps SEMA’s Leadership Days. It is also the setting where SEMA introduces its latest Hall of Fame inductees—iconic individuals who represent not only the industry’s history but also such values as dedication, service and devotion to the entire automotive aftermarket. This time around, more than 400 members of the specialty-equipment industry attended the annual festivities at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, Friday, July 26. Outside the conference center, arriving guests were greeted by numerous collector vehicles, including SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris’ famous Batmobile.

After a late-afternoon reception of industry leaders, veteran emcee Dave McClelland hosted the banquet ceremonies. The opening remarks and welcome were provided by Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO; Luanne Brown, SEMA Cares Committee chairman; Paul “Scooter” Brothers, immediate past chairman of the Board; and Nate Shelton, chairman. George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck received heartfelt tributes as SEMA Hall of Fame inductees.

Later in the evening, the outgoing Board members were also honored and thanked for their substantial contributions to the industry. They included Greg Adler, Transamerican Auto Parts; Joel Ayres, Bedslide/Tākit Inc.; Jim Chick, Bestop Inc.; Donnie Eatherly, P&E Distributors; Dan Gresham, secretary/treasurer; Myles Kovacs, DUB Publishing Inc.; Tim Martin, K&N Engineering; Rick Rollins, immediate past chairman; Mike Spagnola, formerly with Street Scene Equipment; Van Woodell, Weathers Auto Supply; and Jeep Worthan, Auto Meter. In addition, newly elected members to the SEMA Board of Directors were introduced to the audience. They included Chairman-Elect Doug Evans, Source Interlink Media; Jeff Bates, Bob Cook Sales; Kyle Fickler, Weld Racing; and Tim Watts, Superlift Suspension.

“It’s always a special honor to recognize our new Hall of Fame inductees,” said Kersting.

“George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck have been true industry pioneers, setting high standards for others to follow. In similar fashion, we are also proud of and grateful for the contributions of our outgoing Board members, and we look forward to the leadership that our new Board members will provide. Each volunteer brings unique background, experience and perspective to the helm of SEMA. The industry can continue to look forward to growth and prosperity.”

SEMA News—October 2013

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Leadership Days

Annual Summit and Gala Mark Association’s 50th Year

	Incoming SEMA Chairman Nate Shelton introduced himself before a gathering of more than 400 industry professionals at the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on Friday, July 26. Held at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, the celebration capped several days of high-level SEMA leadership activities.

As the specialty-equipment industry’s premier trade association, SEMA relies on elected volunteers to serve on its Board of Directors and in positions of council leadership. Representing every segment of the automotive aftermarket, these industry professionals are dedicated to the advancement of marketing, regulatory and business standards and practices that promote industry growth for all. In short, they are on the front lines identifying challenges and opportunities facing the industry and crafting policies and programs to address them. To support and recognize their efforts, SEMA holds a series of intensive Leadership Days events each year, with this year’s gathering held principally at the Sheraton Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona, California, July 24–25.

As in prior years, the 2013 SEMA Leadership Days consisted of a series of Board of Directors and council leadership summit meetings. Traditionally, these high-level gatherings have three main purposes. First, they provide training for the volunteer leaders. Next, they highlight critical industry issues and opportunities for collaboration among SEMA’s 10 councils. Finally, they seek to promote an atmosphere of open and honest dialogue among the Board of Directors, the 20 council chairs and the council chairs-elect.

“In recent years, we’ve striven to promote even greater synergy between SEMA’s Board of Directors and the association’s councils’ chairs. Annual Leadership Days meetings have become a key component in that goal,” said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting. “More than ever before, SEMA’s councils now are engaged with the Board’s strategic planning process. It’s always great to gather these volunteer leaders in one place for several days to further communication and collaboration on the issues and initiatives the specialty-equipment industry most cares about.”

Pinewood Drag Racing

	SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (standing) addressed the council leadership during a SEMA Leadership Days conference. Each July, Board members and council leaders gather in summit meetings to chart the association’s direction for the coming year.
	The 2013 Leadership Days briefings included firsthand tours of the new SEMA Garage facilities at the association’s headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. Designed to assist membership with product development and marketing, the SEMA Garage boasts two bays for testing product fitment as well as meeting space, a photo studio, 3-D scanning and printing capabilities and a dynamometer.
	John Rosanbalm of Conklin Co. (left) and Dan Kahn of Kahn Media listened intently during one of the week’s many council gatherings.

After a morning of meetings, the July 26 Leadership Days social activities kicked off in the afternoon with the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races benefitting SEMA Cares, the association’s charity arm. The winners, by class, included:

Build It for Me

• 1st place: Champion Spark Plugs (Victory Junction Camp)
• 2nd place: Travis White, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Champion Spark Plugs (Childhelp)
• 4th place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 5th place: Mike Spagnola
• 6th place: Robert Florine

Stock Class

• 1st place: Tom Gattuso, SEMA
• 2nd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 3rd place: Dave Williams, Rampage Products

Modified Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Ryleigh Williams, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Regis Finn, MyteeBrite Group/ETTN

Unlimited Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.

Total Unlimited

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 4th place: Russell Stephens, MSD
• 5th place: MagnaFlow

Council Cup

• 1st place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 2nd place: Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
• 3rd place: Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA)

Menzler Class

• 1st place: Joel Ayres
• 2nd place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 3rd place: Jay Rohrback
• 4th place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 5th place: Robert Florine
• 6th place: Sarah Burgess
• 7th place: Stephen Wolcott
• 8th place: Sue Figueroa

Builders Race

For the fourth consecutive year, Derek White from Street Visions won the Builders Race. This year’s car was a John Menzler tribute—a hi-boy-style coupe.

“Trim Parts was pleased to participate in the 2013 SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, and we were fortunate to come away with an overall win, including a first and second place in Unlimited and a first place in Modified,” said Mitch Williams. “We built a new car this year, which was a complete unknown, but it worked and ran a time of 2.90 compared to our second-place car at 2.91. The second-place car was a previous three-time overall winner of the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races and had never lost. Both of these cars are now recognized as the fastest Pinewood Drag Race cars in North America and possibly the world. We hope other SEMA members will join this event as a way to showcase their engineering and creative capabilities and support very worthy causes at the same time. We believe very strongly that this SEMA event is making a difference in the lives of young people through these great charities, and we are honored to be a part of it.”

SEMA council leaders also took a brief time out from their series of meetings for a group photo. SEMA’s councils address standards, practices and issues facing specific segments of the aftermarket industry.		Camaraderie and networking highlighted the evening of July 26, as hundreds of industry professionals gathered for a social mixer that was followed by a gala dinner celebrating incoming SEMA leaders, thanking outgoing volunteers and introducing the year’s Hall of Fame inductees.		SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (right) greeted famous customizer and 2013 SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris, creator of the iconic Batmobile. The television vehicle was just one of many outstanding collector’s vehicles on display at Pomona’s Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center on July 26.

SEMA Gala Celebration

	The July 26 festivities included the inauguration of the 2013–2014 SEMA Board of Directors, led by incoming Chairman Nate Shelton (front center). He is flanked on the left by Immediate Past Chairman Paul “Scooter” Brothers and, on the right, by Chairman-Elect Doug Evans.

The annual Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, an event in which the association thanks its outgoing Board of Directors members and welcomes those who have been newly elected, always caps SEMA’s Leadership Days. It is also the setting where SEMA introduces its latest Hall of Fame inductees—iconic individuals who represent not only the industry’s history but also such values as dedication, service and devotion to the entire automotive aftermarket. This time around, more than 400 members of the specialty-equipment industry attended the annual festivities at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, Friday, July 26. Outside the conference center, arriving guests were greeted by numerous collector vehicles, including SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris’ famous Batmobile.

After a late-afternoon reception of industry leaders, veteran emcee Dave McClelland hosted the banquet ceremonies. The opening remarks and welcome were provided by Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO; Luanne Brown, SEMA Cares Committee chairman; Paul “Scooter” Brothers, immediate past chairman of the Board; and Nate Shelton, chairman. George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck received heartfelt tributes as SEMA Hall of Fame inductees.

Later in the evening, the outgoing Board members were also honored and thanked for their substantial contributions to the industry. They included Greg Adler, Transamerican Auto Parts; Joel Ayres, Bedslide/Tākit Inc.; Jim Chick, Bestop Inc.; Donnie Eatherly, P&E Distributors; Dan Gresham, secretary/treasurer; Myles Kovacs, DUB Publishing Inc.; Tim Martin, K&N Engineering; Rick Rollins, immediate past chairman; Mike Spagnola, formerly with Street Scene Equipment; Van Woodell, Weathers Auto Supply; and Jeep Worthan, Auto Meter. In addition, newly elected members to the SEMA Board of Directors were introduced to the audience. They included Chairman-Elect Doug Evans, Source Interlink Media; Jeff Bates, Bob Cook Sales; Kyle Fickler, Weld Racing; and Tim Watts, Superlift Suspension.

“It’s always a special honor to recognize our new Hall of Fame inductees,” said Kersting.

“George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck have been true industry pioneers, setting high standards for others to follow. In similar fashion, we are also proud of and grateful for the contributions of our outgoing Board members, and we look forward to the leadership that our new Board members will provide. Each volunteer brings unique background, experience and perspective to the helm of SEMA. The industry can continue to look forward to growth and prosperity.”

SEMA News—October 2013

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Leadership Days

Annual Summit and Gala Mark Association’s 50th Year

	Incoming SEMA Chairman Nate Shelton introduced himself before a gathering of more than 400 industry professionals at the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on Friday, July 26. Held at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, the celebration capped several days of high-level SEMA leadership activities.

As the specialty-equipment industry’s premier trade association, SEMA relies on elected volunteers to serve on its Board of Directors and in positions of council leadership. Representing every segment of the automotive aftermarket, these industry professionals are dedicated to the advancement of marketing, regulatory and business standards and practices that promote industry growth for all. In short, they are on the front lines identifying challenges and opportunities facing the industry and crafting policies and programs to address them. To support and recognize their efforts, SEMA holds a series of intensive Leadership Days events each year, with this year’s gathering held principally at the Sheraton Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona, California, July 24–25.

As in prior years, the 2013 SEMA Leadership Days consisted of a series of Board of Directors and council leadership summit meetings. Traditionally, these high-level gatherings have three main purposes. First, they provide training for the volunteer leaders. Next, they highlight critical industry issues and opportunities for collaboration among SEMA’s 10 councils. Finally, they seek to promote an atmosphere of open and honest dialogue among the Board of Directors, the 20 council chairs and the council chairs-elect.

“In recent years, we’ve striven to promote even greater synergy between SEMA’s Board of Directors and the association’s councils’ chairs. Annual Leadership Days meetings have become a key component in that goal,” said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting. “More than ever before, SEMA’s councils now are engaged with the Board’s strategic planning process. It’s always great to gather these volunteer leaders in one place for several days to further communication and collaboration on the issues and initiatives the specialty-equipment industry most cares about.”

Pinewood Drag Racing

	SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (standing) addressed the council leadership during a SEMA Leadership Days conference. Each July, Board members and council leaders gather in summit meetings to chart the association’s direction for the coming year.
	The 2013 Leadership Days briefings included firsthand tours of the new SEMA Garage facilities at the association’s headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. Designed to assist membership with product development and marketing, the SEMA Garage boasts two bays for testing product fitment as well as meeting space, a photo studio, 3-D scanning and printing capabilities and a dynamometer.
	John Rosanbalm of Conklin Co. (left) and Dan Kahn of Kahn Media listened intently during one of the week’s many council gatherings.

After a morning of meetings, the July 26 Leadership Days social activities kicked off in the afternoon with the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races benefitting SEMA Cares, the association’s charity arm. The winners, by class, included:

Build It for Me

• 1st place: Champion Spark Plugs (Victory Junction Camp)
• 2nd place: Travis White, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Champion Spark Plugs (Childhelp)
• 4th place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 5th place: Mike Spagnola
• 6th place: Robert Florine

Stock Class

• 1st place: Tom Gattuso, SEMA
• 2nd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 3rd place: Dave Williams, Rampage Products

Modified Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Ryleigh Williams, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Regis Finn, MyteeBrite Group/ETTN

Unlimited Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.

Total Unlimited

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 4th place: Russell Stephens, MSD
• 5th place: MagnaFlow

Council Cup

• 1st place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 2nd place: Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
• 3rd place: Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA)

Menzler Class

• 1st place: Joel Ayres
• 2nd place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 3rd place: Jay Rohrback
• 4th place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 5th place: Robert Florine
• 6th place: Sarah Burgess
• 7th place: Stephen Wolcott
• 8th place: Sue Figueroa

Builders Race

For the fourth consecutive year, Derek White from Street Visions won the Builders Race. This year’s car was a John Menzler tribute—a hi-boy-style coupe.

“Trim Parts was pleased to participate in the 2013 SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, and we were fortunate to come away with an overall win, including a first and second place in Unlimited and a first place in Modified,” said Mitch Williams. “We built a new car this year, which was a complete unknown, but it worked and ran a time of 2.90 compared to our second-place car at 2.91. The second-place car was a previous three-time overall winner of the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races and had never lost. Both of these cars are now recognized as the fastest Pinewood Drag Race cars in North America and possibly the world. We hope other SEMA members will join this event as a way to showcase their engineering and creative capabilities and support very worthy causes at the same time. We believe very strongly that this SEMA event is making a difference in the lives of young people through these great charities, and we are honored to be a part of it.”

SEMA council leaders also took a brief time out from their series of meetings for a group photo. SEMA’s councils address standards, practices and issues facing specific segments of the aftermarket industry.		Camaraderie and networking highlighted the evening of July 26, as hundreds of industry professionals gathered for a social mixer that was followed by a gala dinner celebrating incoming SEMA leaders, thanking outgoing volunteers and introducing the year’s Hall of Fame inductees.		SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (right) greeted famous customizer and 2013 SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris, creator of the iconic Batmobile. The television vehicle was just one of many outstanding collector’s vehicles on display at Pomona’s Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center on July 26.

SEMA Gala Celebration

	The July 26 festivities included the inauguration of the 2013–2014 SEMA Board of Directors, led by incoming Chairman Nate Shelton (front center). He is flanked on the left by Immediate Past Chairman Paul “Scooter” Brothers and, on the right, by Chairman-Elect Doug Evans.

The annual Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, an event in which the association thanks its outgoing Board of Directors members and welcomes those who have been newly elected, always caps SEMA’s Leadership Days. It is also the setting where SEMA introduces its latest Hall of Fame inductees—iconic individuals who represent not only the industry’s history but also such values as dedication, service and devotion to the entire automotive aftermarket. This time around, more than 400 members of the specialty-equipment industry attended the annual festivities at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, Friday, July 26. Outside the conference center, arriving guests were greeted by numerous collector vehicles, including SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris’ famous Batmobile.

After a late-afternoon reception of industry leaders, veteran emcee Dave McClelland hosted the banquet ceremonies. The opening remarks and welcome were provided by Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO; Luanne Brown, SEMA Cares Committee chairman; Paul “Scooter” Brothers, immediate past chairman of the Board; and Nate Shelton, chairman. George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck received heartfelt tributes as SEMA Hall of Fame inductees.

Later in the evening, the outgoing Board members were also honored and thanked for their substantial contributions to the industry. They included Greg Adler, Transamerican Auto Parts; Joel Ayres, Bedslide/Tākit Inc.; Jim Chick, Bestop Inc.; Donnie Eatherly, P&E Distributors; Dan Gresham, secretary/treasurer; Myles Kovacs, DUB Publishing Inc.; Tim Martin, K&N Engineering; Rick Rollins, immediate past chairman; Mike Spagnola, formerly with Street Scene Equipment; Van Woodell, Weathers Auto Supply; and Jeep Worthan, Auto Meter. In addition, newly elected members to the SEMA Board of Directors were introduced to the audience. They included Chairman-Elect Doug Evans, Source Interlink Media; Jeff Bates, Bob Cook Sales; Kyle Fickler, Weld Racing; and Tim Watts, Superlift Suspension.

“It’s always a special honor to recognize our new Hall of Fame inductees,” said Kersting.

“George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck have been true industry pioneers, setting high standards for others to follow. In similar fashion, we are also proud of and grateful for the contributions of our outgoing Board members, and we look forward to the leadership that our new Board members will provide. Each volunteer brings unique background, experience and perspective to the helm of SEMA. The industry can continue to look forward to growth and prosperity.”

SEMA News—October 2013

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Leadership Days

Annual Summit and Gala Mark Association’s 50th Year

	Incoming SEMA Chairman Nate Shelton introduced himself before a gathering of more than 400 industry professionals at the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on Friday, July 26. Held at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, the celebration capped several days of high-level SEMA leadership activities.

As the specialty-equipment industry’s premier trade association, SEMA relies on elected volunteers to serve on its Board of Directors and in positions of council leadership. Representing every segment of the automotive aftermarket, these industry professionals are dedicated to the advancement of marketing, regulatory and business standards and practices that promote industry growth for all. In short, they are on the front lines identifying challenges and opportunities facing the industry and crafting policies and programs to address them. To support and recognize their efforts, SEMA holds a series of intensive Leadership Days events each year, with this year’s gathering held principally at the Sheraton Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona, California, July 24–25.

As in prior years, the 2013 SEMA Leadership Days consisted of a series of Board of Directors and council leadership summit meetings. Traditionally, these high-level gatherings have three main purposes. First, they provide training for the volunteer leaders. Next, they highlight critical industry issues and opportunities for collaboration among SEMA’s 10 councils. Finally, they seek to promote an atmosphere of open and honest dialogue among the Board of Directors, the 20 council chairs and the council chairs-elect.

“In recent years, we’ve striven to promote even greater synergy between SEMA’s Board of Directors and the association’s councils’ chairs. Annual Leadership Days meetings have become a key component in that goal,” said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting. “More than ever before, SEMA’s councils now are engaged with the Board’s strategic planning process. It’s always great to gather these volunteer leaders in one place for several days to further communication and collaboration on the issues and initiatives the specialty-equipment industry most cares about.”

Pinewood Drag Racing

	SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (standing) addressed the council leadership during a SEMA Leadership Days conference. Each July, Board members and council leaders gather in summit meetings to chart the association’s direction for the coming year.
	The 2013 Leadership Days briefings included firsthand tours of the new SEMA Garage facilities at the association’s headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. Designed to assist membership with product development and marketing, the SEMA Garage boasts two bays for testing product fitment as well as meeting space, a photo studio, 3-D scanning and printing capabilities and a dynamometer.
	John Rosanbalm of Conklin Co. (left) and Dan Kahn of Kahn Media listened intently during one of the week’s many council gatherings.

After a morning of meetings, the July 26 Leadership Days social activities kicked off in the afternoon with the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races benefitting SEMA Cares, the association’s charity arm. The winners, by class, included:

Build It for Me

• 1st place: Champion Spark Plugs (Victory Junction Camp)
• 2nd place: Travis White, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Champion Spark Plugs (Childhelp)
• 4th place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 5th place: Mike Spagnola
• 6th place: Robert Florine

Stock Class

• 1st place: Tom Gattuso, SEMA
• 2nd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 3rd place: Dave Williams, Rampage Products

Modified Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Ryleigh Williams, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Regis Finn, MyteeBrite Group/ETTN

Unlimited Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.

Total Unlimited

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 4th place: Russell Stephens, MSD
• 5th place: MagnaFlow

Council Cup

• 1st place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 2nd place: Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
• 3rd place: Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA)

Menzler Class

• 1st place: Joel Ayres
• 2nd place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 3rd place: Jay Rohrback
• 4th place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 5th place: Robert Florine
• 6th place: Sarah Burgess
• 7th place: Stephen Wolcott
• 8th place: Sue Figueroa

Builders Race

For the fourth consecutive year, Derek White from Street Visions won the Builders Race. This year’s car was a John Menzler tribute—a hi-boy-style coupe.

“Trim Parts was pleased to participate in the 2013 SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, and we were fortunate to come away with an overall win, including a first and second place in Unlimited and a first place in Modified,” said Mitch Williams. “We built a new car this year, which was a complete unknown, but it worked and ran a time of 2.90 compared to our second-place car at 2.91. The second-place car was a previous three-time overall winner of the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races and had never lost. Both of these cars are now recognized as the fastest Pinewood Drag Race cars in North America and possibly the world. We hope other SEMA members will join this event as a way to showcase their engineering and creative capabilities and support very worthy causes at the same time. We believe very strongly that this SEMA event is making a difference in the lives of young people through these great charities, and we are honored to be a part of it.”

SEMA council leaders also took a brief time out from their series of meetings for a group photo. SEMA’s councils address standards, practices and issues facing specific segments of the aftermarket industry.		Camaraderie and networking highlighted the evening of July 26, as hundreds of industry professionals gathered for a social mixer that was followed by a gala dinner celebrating incoming SEMA leaders, thanking outgoing volunteers and introducing the year’s Hall of Fame inductees.		SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (right) greeted famous customizer and 2013 SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris, creator of the iconic Batmobile. The television vehicle was just one of many outstanding collector’s vehicles on display at Pomona’s Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center on July 26.

SEMA Gala Celebration

	The July 26 festivities included the inauguration of the 2013–2014 SEMA Board of Directors, led by incoming Chairman Nate Shelton (front center). He is flanked on the left by Immediate Past Chairman Paul “Scooter” Brothers and, on the right, by Chairman-Elect Doug Evans.

The annual Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, an event in which the association thanks its outgoing Board of Directors members and welcomes those who have been newly elected, always caps SEMA’s Leadership Days. It is also the setting where SEMA introduces its latest Hall of Fame inductees—iconic individuals who represent not only the industry’s history but also such values as dedication, service and devotion to the entire automotive aftermarket. This time around, more than 400 members of the specialty-equipment industry attended the annual festivities at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, Friday, July 26. Outside the conference center, arriving guests were greeted by numerous collector vehicles, including SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris’ famous Batmobile.

After a late-afternoon reception of industry leaders, veteran emcee Dave McClelland hosted the banquet ceremonies. The opening remarks and welcome were provided by Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO; Luanne Brown, SEMA Cares Committee chairman; Paul “Scooter” Brothers, immediate past chairman of the Board; and Nate Shelton, chairman. George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck received heartfelt tributes as SEMA Hall of Fame inductees.

Later in the evening, the outgoing Board members were also honored and thanked for their substantial contributions to the industry. They included Greg Adler, Transamerican Auto Parts; Joel Ayres, Bedslide/Tākit Inc.; Jim Chick, Bestop Inc.; Donnie Eatherly, P&E Distributors; Dan Gresham, secretary/treasurer; Myles Kovacs, DUB Publishing Inc.; Tim Martin, K&N Engineering; Rick Rollins, immediate past chairman; Mike Spagnola, formerly with Street Scene Equipment; Van Woodell, Weathers Auto Supply; and Jeep Worthan, Auto Meter. In addition, newly elected members to the SEMA Board of Directors were introduced to the audience. They included Chairman-Elect Doug Evans, Source Interlink Media; Jeff Bates, Bob Cook Sales; Kyle Fickler, Weld Racing; and Tim Watts, Superlift Suspension.

“It’s always a special honor to recognize our new Hall of Fame inductees,” said Kersting.

“George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck have been true industry pioneers, setting high standards for others to follow. In similar fashion, we are also proud of and grateful for the contributions of our outgoing Board members, and we look forward to the leadership that our new Board members will provide. Each volunteer brings unique background, experience and perspective to the helm of SEMA. The industry can continue to look forward to growth and prosperity.”

SEMA News—October 2013

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Leadership Days

Annual Summit and Gala Mark Association’s 50th Year

	Incoming SEMA Chairman Nate Shelton introduced himself before a gathering of more than 400 industry professionals at the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on Friday, July 26. Held at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, the celebration capped several days of high-level SEMA leadership activities.

As the specialty-equipment industry’s premier trade association, SEMA relies on elected volunteers to serve on its Board of Directors and in positions of council leadership. Representing every segment of the automotive aftermarket, these industry professionals are dedicated to the advancement of marketing, regulatory and business standards and practices that promote industry growth for all. In short, they are on the front lines identifying challenges and opportunities facing the industry and crafting policies and programs to address them. To support and recognize their efforts, SEMA holds a series of intensive Leadership Days events each year, with this year’s gathering held principally at the Sheraton Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona, California, July 24–25.

As in prior years, the 2013 SEMA Leadership Days consisted of a series of Board of Directors and council leadership summit meetings. Traditionally, these high-level gatherings have three main purposes. First, they provide training for the volunteer leaders. Next, they highlight critical industry issues and opportunities for collaboration among SEMA’s 10 councils. Finally, they seek to promote an atmosphere of open and honest dialogue among the Board of Directors, the 20 council chairs and the council chairs-elect.

“In recent years, we’ve striven to promote even greater synergy between SEMA’s Board of Directors and the association’s councils’ chairs. Annual Leadership Days meetings have become a key component in that goal,” said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting. “More than ever before, SEMA’s councils now are engaged with the Board’s strategic planning process. It’s always great to gather these volunteer leaders in one place for several days to further communication and collaboration on the issues and initiatives the specialty-equipment industry most cares about.”

Pinewood Drag Racing

	SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (standing) addressed the council leadership during a SEMA Leadership Days conference. Each July, Board members and council leaders gather in summit meetings to chart the association’s direction for the coming year.
	The 2013 Leadership Days briefings included firsthand tours of the new SEMA Garage facilities at the association’s headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. Designed to assist membership with product development and marketing, the SEMA Garage boasts two bays for testing product fitment as well as meeting space, a photo studio, 3-D scanning and printing capabilities and a dynamometer.
	John Rosanbalm of Conklin Co. (left) and Dan Kahn of Kahn Media listened intently during one of the week’s many council gatherings.

After a morning of meetings, the July 26 Leadership Days social activities kicked off in the afternoon with the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races benefitting SEMA Cares, the association’s charity arm. The winners, by class, included:

Build It for Me

• 1st place: Champion Spark Plugs (Victory Junction Camp)
• 2nd place: Travis White, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Champion Spark Plugs (Childhelp)
• 4th place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 5th place: Mike Spagnola
• 6th place: Robert Florine

Stock Class

• 1st place: Tom Gattuso, SEMA
• 2nd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 3rd place: Dave Williams, Rampage Products

Modified Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Ryleigh Williams, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Regis Finn, MyteeBrite Group/ETTN

Unlimited Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.

Total Unlimited

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 4th place: Russell Stephens, MSD
• 5th place: MagnaFlow

Council Cup

• 1st place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 2nd place: Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
• 3rd place: Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA)

Menzler Class

• 1st place: Joel Ayres
• 2nd place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 3rd place: Jay Rohrback
• 4th place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 5th place: Robert Florine
• 6th place: Sarah Burgess
• 7th place: Stephen Wolcott
• 8th place: Sue Figueroa

Builders Race

For the fourth consecutive year, Derek White from Street Visions won the Builders Race. This year’s car was a John Menzler tribute—a hi-boy-style coupe.

“Trim Parts was pleased to participate in the 2013 SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, and we were fortunate to come away with an overall win, including a first and second place in Unlimited and a first place in Modified,” said Mitch Williams. “We built a new car this year, which was a complete unknown, but it worked and ran a time of 2.90 compared to our second-place car at 2.91. The second-place car was a previous three-time overall winner of the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races and had never lost. Both of these cars are now recognized as the fastest Pinewood Drag Race cars in North America and possibly the world. We hope other SEMA members will join this event as a way to showcase their engineering and creative capabilities and support very worthy causes at the same time. We believe very strongly that this SEMA event is making a difference in the lives of young people through these great charities, and we are honored to be a part of it.”

SEMA council leaders also took a brief time out from their series of meetings for a group photo. SEMA’s councils address standards, practices and issues facing specific segments of the aftermarket industry.		Camaraderie and networking highlighted the evening of July 26, as hundreds of industry professionals gathered for a social mixer that was followed by a gala dinner celebrating incoming SEMA leaders, thanking outgoing volunteers and introducing the year’s Hall of Fame inductees.		SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (right) greeted famous customizer and 2013 SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris, creator of the iconic Batmobile. The television vehicle was just one of many outstanding collector’s vehicles on display at Pomona’s Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center on July 26.

SEMA Gala Celebration

	The July 26 festivities included the inauguration of the 2013–2014 SEMA Board of Directors, led by incoming Chairman Nate Shelton (front center). He is flanked on the left by Immediate Past Chairman Paul “Scooter” Brothers and, on the right, by Chairman-Elect Doug Evans.

The annual Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, an event in which the association thanks its outgoing Board of Directors members and welcomes those who have been newly elected, always caps SEMA’s Leadership Days. It is also the setting where SEMA introduces its latest Hall of Fame inductees—iconic individuals who represent not only the industry’s history but also such values as dedication, service and devotion to the entire automotive aftermarket. This time around, more than 400 members of the specialty-equipment industry attended the annual festivities at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, Friday, July 26. Outside the conference center, arriving guests were greeted by numerous collector vehicles, including SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris’ famous Batmobile.

After a late-afternoon reception of industry leaders, veteran emcee Dave McClelland hosted the banquet ceremonies. The opening remarks and welcome were provided by Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO; Luanne Brown, SEMA Cares Committee chairman; Paul “Scooter” Brothers, immediate past chairman of the Board; and Nate Shelton, chairman. George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck received heartfelt tributes as SEMA Hall of Fame inductees.

Later in the evening, the outgoing Board members were also honored and thanked for their substantial contributions to the industry. They included Greg Adler, Transamerican Auto Parts; Joel Ayres, Bedslide/Tākit Inc.; Jim Chick, Bestop Inc.; Donnie Eatherly, P&E Distributors; Dan Gresham, secretary/treasurer; Myles Kovacs, DUB Publishing Inc.; Tim Martin, K&N Engineering; Rick Rollins, immediate past chairman; Mike Spagnola, formerly with Street Scene Equipment; Van Woodell, Weathers Auto Supply; and Jeep Worthan, Auto Meter. In addition, newly elected members to the SEMA Board of Directors were introduced to the audience. They included Chairman-Elect Doug Evans, Source Interlink Media; Jeff Bates, Bob Cook Sales; Kyle Fickler, Weld Racing; and Tim Watts, Superlift Suspension.

“It’s always a special honor to recognize our new Hall of Fame inductees,” said Kersting.

“George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck have been true industry pioneers, setting high standards for others to follow. In similar fashion, we are also proud of and grateful for the contributions of our outgoing Board members, and we look forward to the leadership that our new Board members will provide. Each volunteer brings unique background, experience and perspective to the helm of SEMA. The industry can continue to look forward to growth and prosperity.”

SEMA News—October 2013

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Leadership Days

Annual Summit and Gala Mark Association’s 50th Year

	Incoming SEMA Chairman Nate Shelton introduced himself before a gathering of more than 400 industry professionals at the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on Friday, July 26. Held at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, the celebration capped several days of high-level SEMA leadership activities.

As the specialty-equipment industry’s premier trade association, SEMA relies on elected volunteers to serve on its Board of Directors and in positions of council leadership. Representing every segment of the automotive aftermarket, these industry professionals are dedicated to the advancement of marketing, regulatory and business standards and practices that promote industry growth for all. In short, they are on the front lines identifying challenges and opportunities facing the industry and crafting policies and programs to address them. To support and recognize their efforts, SEMA holds a series of intensive Leadership Days events each year, with this year’s gathering held principally at the Sheraton Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona, California, July 24–25.

As in prior years, the 2013 SEMA Leadership Days consisted of a series of Board of Directors and council leadership summit meetings. Traditionally, these high-level gatherings have three main purposes. First, they provide training for the volunteer leaders. Next, they highlight critical industry issues and opportunities for collaboration among SEMA’s 10 councils. Finally, they seek to promote an atmosphere of open and honest dialogue among the Board of Directors, the 20 council chairs and the council chairs-elect.

“In recent years, we’ve striven to promote even greater synergy between SEMA’s Board of Directors and the association’s councils’ chairs. Annual Leadership Days meetings have become a key component in that goal,” said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting. “More than ever before, SEMA’s councils now are engaged with the Board’s strategic planning process. It’s always great to gather these volunteer leaders in one place for several days to further communication and collaboration on the issues and initiatives the specialty-equipment industry most cares about.”

Pinewood Drag Racing

	SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (standing) addressed the council leadership during a SEMA Leadership Days conference. Each July, Board members and council leaders gather in summit meetings to chart the association’s direction for the coming year.
	The 2013 Leadership Days briefings included firsthand tours of the new SEMA Garage facilities at the association’s headquarters in Diamond Bar, California. Designed to assist membership with product development and marketing, the SEMA Garage boasts two bays for testing product fitment as well as meeting space, a photo studio, 3-D scanning and printing capabilities and a dynamometer.
	John Rosanbalm of Conklin Co. (left) and Dan Kahn of Kahn Media listened intently during one of the week’s many council gatherings.

After a morning of meetings, the July 26 Leadership Days social activities kicked off in the afternoon with the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races benefitting SEMA Cares, the association’s charity arm. The winners, by class, included:

Build It for Me

• 1st place: Champion Spark Plugs (Victory Junction Camp)
• 2nd place: Travis White, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Champion Spark Plugs (Childhelp)
• 4th place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 5th place: Mike Spagnola
• 6th place: Robert Florine

Stock Class

• 1st place: Tom Gattuso, SEMA
• 2nd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 3rd place: Dave Williams, Rampage Products

Modified Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Ryleigh Williams, Rampage Products
• 3rd place: Regis Finn, MyteeBrite Group/ETTN

Unlimited Class

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.

Total Unlimited

• 1st place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 2nd place: Mitch Williams, Trim Parts
• 3rd place: Eric Hoffend, Freeman Co.
• 4th place: Russell Stephens, MSD
• 5th place: MagnaFlow

Council Cup

• 1st place: SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
• 2nd place: Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
• 3rd place: Light-Truck Accessory Alliance (TORA)

Menzler Class

• 1st place: Joel Ayres
• 2nd place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 3rd place: Jay Rohrback
• 4th place: Paul “Scooter” Brothers
• 5th place: Robert Florine
• 6th place: Sarah Burgess
• 7th place: Stephen Wolcott
• 8th place: Sue Figueroa

Builders Race

For the fourth consecutive year, Derek White from Street Visions won the Builders Race. This year’s car was a John Menzler tribute—a hi-boy-style coupe.

“Trim Parts was pleased to participate in the 2013 SEMA Pinewood Drag Races, and we were fortunate to come away with an overall win, including a first and second place in Unlimited and a first place in Modified,” said Mitch Williams. “We built a new car this year, which was a complete unknown, but it worked and ran a time of 2.90 compared to our second-place car at 2.91. The second-place car was a previous three-time overall winner of the SEMA Pinewood Drag Races and had never lost. Both of these cars are now recognized as the fastest Pinewood Drag Race cars in North America and possibly the world. We hope other SEMA members will join this event as a way to showcase their engineering and creative capabilities and support very worthy causes at the same time. We believe very strongly that this SEMA event is making a difference in the lives of young people through these great charities, and we are honored to be a part of it.”

SEMA council leaders also took a brief time out from their series of meetings for a group photo. SEMA’s councils address standards, practices and issues facing specific segments of the aftermarket industry.		Camaraderie and networking highlighted the evening of July 26, as hundreds of industry professionals gathered for a social mixer that was followed by a gala dinner celebrating incoming SEMA leaders, thanking outgoing volunteers and introducing the year’s Hall of Fame inductees.		SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting (right) greeted famous customizer and 2013 SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris, creator of the iconic Batmobile. The television vehicle was just one of many outstanding collector’s vehicles on display at Pomona’s Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center on July 26.

SEMA Gala Celebration

	The July 26 festivities included the inauguration of the 2013–2014 SEMA Board of Directors, led by incoming Chairman Nate Shelton (front center). He is flanked on the left by Immediate Past Chairman Paul “Scooter” Brothers and, on the right, by Chairman-Elect Doug Evans.

The annual Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, an event in which the association thanks its outgoing Board of Directors members and welcomes those who have been newly elected, always caps SEMA’s Leadership Days. It is also the setting where SEMA introduces its latest Hall of Fame inductees—iconic individuals who represent not only the industry’s history but also such values as dedication, service and devotion to the entire automotive aftermarket. This time around, more than 400 members of the specialty-equipment industry attended the annual festivities at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, California, Friday, July 26. Outside the conference center, arriving guests were greeted by numerous collector vehicles, including SEMA Hall of Fame inductee George Barris’ famous Batmobile.

After a late-afternoon reception of industry leaders, veteran emcee Dave McClelland hosted the banquet ceremonies. The opening remarks and welcome were provided by Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO; Luanne Brown, SEMA Cares Committee chairman; Paul “Scooter” Brothers, immediate past chairman of the Board; and Nate Shelton, chairman. George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck received heartfelt tributes as SEMA Hall of Fame inductees.

Later in the evening, the outgoing Board members were also honored and thanked for their substantial contributions to the industry. They included Greg Adler, Transamerican Auto Parts; Joel Ayres, Bedslide/Tākit Inc.; Jim Chick, Bestop Inc.; Donnie Eatherly, P&E Distributors; Dan Gresham, secretary/treasurer; Myles Kovacs, DUB Publishing Inc.; Tim Martin, K&N Engineering; Rick Rollins, immediate past chairman; Mike Spagnola, formerly with Street Scene Equipment; Van Woodell, Weathers Auto Supply; and Jeep Worthan, Auto Meter. In addition, newly elected members to the SEMA Board of Directors were introduced to the audience. They included Chairman-Elect Doug Evans, Source Interlink Media; Jeff Bates, Bob Cook Sales; Kyle Fickler, Weld Racing; and Tim Watts, Superlift Suspension.

“It’s always a special honor to recognize our new Hall of Fame inductees,” said Kersting.

“George Barris, Eric Grant, Wade Kawasaki and Joe Schubeck have been true industry pioneers, setting high standards for others to follow. In similar fashion, we are also proud of and grateful for the contributions of our outgoing Board members, and we look forward to the leadership that our new Board members will provide. Each volunteer brings unique background, experience and perspective to the helm of SEMA. The industry can continue to look forward to growth and prosperity.”