The ’13 Dodge Dart compact sedan SEMA Measuring session will be held Wednesday, July 25, 2012, from 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. at QEK in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The deadline to register is Monday, July 23.

The ’13 Dodge Dart compact sedan SEMA Measuring session will be held Wednesday, July 25, 2012, from 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. at QEK in Auburn Hills, Michigan. The deadline to register is Monday, July 23.

	Top Female Award recipient, Laurel Dasher, of SEMA-member company Powerteq (Superchips/Edge).

Dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket industry leaders and innovators, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund awarded a total of $130,000 to 69 scholarship recipients for 2012, and $15,000 was awarded to 15 loan-forgiveness recipients. Over the life of the fund, $1.5 million has gone to 1,000 deserving students since it was started in 1984.

Scholarship awards range from $1,000 to $2,000, with $4,000 going to the top student. Assistance is available for career paths in the automotive industry in accounting, engineering, race-car driver/crew, administration, information technology, sales/marketing, advertising, manufacturing, technicians, design/graphics, photo/journalism and transportation. A full-tuition scholarship, valued at up to $29,400, is awarded to one student attending Ohio Technical College (OTC).

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program is dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their automotive aftermarket careers. The fund offers $1,000 awards toward outstanding student loans for individuals who are employed by SEMA-member companies.

To be eligible for an award, an applicant must be a U.S. citizen enrolled in a full-time program of study at an accredited university, college or vocational/technical program in the United States and have a minimum of a 2.5 grade point average. If currently attending a four-year university or college, the applicant must have completed a minimum of 50 college credits. If currently attending a two-year community college or vocational/technical program, the applicant must have completed a minimum of 25 college credits, or the equivalent in classroom hours.

The applicant must be pursuing studies leading to a career in the automotive aftermarket or related field and must remain enrolled as a full-time student for the first full semester, quarter or term following receipt of the award. Students may reapply each year as long as they continue to meet the eligibility criteria. The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, fees, books, supplies and equipment required for course load. A student may transfer from one institution to another and retain the award.

The online application for next year’s awards will be available December 3, 2012, through April 5, 2013.

For questions or additional information, please contact SEMA Education Administrator Juliet Marshall by phone at  909-978-6655 or via e-mail at julietm@SEMA.org.

To assure complete impartiality in the selection of winners and to maintain a high level of professionalism, all applications are reviewed by a panel of five independent judges. Additionally, International Scholarship & Tuition Services Inc.—a firm that specializes in managing sponsored scholarship programs—administers the program.

For additional information regarding the scholarship program, contact International Scholarship & Tuition Services Inc. at 855-670-ISTS or via e-mail at contact.us@applyists.com 
with "SEMA" in the subject line.

SEMA and the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund are pleased to present this year’s scholarship and loan forgiveness awards to the following students and member-company employees:

2012 Award Winners

Scholarship                           

Thomas Akins		School of Automotive Machinists		Andrew Komurka		Michigan Technological University
Samuel Ames		Brigham Young University–Idaho		Donovan Krehbiel		Kansas State University (Truck and Off-Road Alliance Award)
Andrew Baldwin		Brigham Young University–Idaho		Kevin Leparski		Southern Illinois University Carbondale (Street Performance Council Award)
Kirk Barber		Indiana University–Purdue University-Indianapolis		Jasmine MacLaughlin		University of Wisconsin–Madison (L.L. Borrick Award)
Kyle Barlow		Northwood University		Christopher Marquis		Ohio Technical College (OTC Award)
Ryan Baxter		Brigham Young University–Idaho		DeAnne Martinez		Weber State University
Casey Boyle		University of Michigan–Ann Arbor		Kenneth Marvel		Pennsylvania College of Technology (Dan Borre Award)
William Cannon		California State Polytechnic University–Pomona (Joe Hrudka Award)		Andrew Mattord		University of Northwestern Ohio
James Carter		University of Alabama at Birmingham (Jim Borre Award)		Brent Maynard		University of Northwestern Ohio
Daniel Chae		Art Center College of Design (Phil Weiand Award)		Angelo McCartney		Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Christopher Clark		Farmingdale State College		Shayne McConomy		Clemson University (Melvin Burton Award)
Alexandar Coralic		Cardinal Stritch University		Alex Miller		Georgia Institute of Technology (Bernie Karp Award)
John Crespo		San Bernardino Valley College (K&N Engineering Award)		Sara Mohon		Clemson University (Top Student Award)
Justin Crider		Pennsylvania College of Technology (Joseph B. Amato, Sr. Award)		Ryan O'Dette		University of Northwestern Ohio
Joshua Dahl		Brigham Young University (Young Executives Network Award)		Kyle Olason		North Dakota State University
Cayle Christian Damrow		University of Wisconsin–Stout (Wheel & Tire Council Award)		Jennifer Olfert		California State University–San Bernardino
Nataki DeForrest		Wayne State University		Michael Palmer		University of Northwestern Ohio
Ian Dunlap		Metropolitan State College of Denver		Brandon Peeler		Central Michigan University (Steve Woomer Award)
Chad Ediger		McPherson College		Michelle Perez		Skyline College (ARMO – Jeff Moses Award)
Ryan Eggebrecht		University of Michigan–Ann Arbor		Derek Riddle		Ohio State University
Jose Garcia		Colorado State University–Pueblo		Lissette Rios		University of Scranton
Michael Godfrey		University of Northwestern Ohio		Michael Robins		Northwood University
Joshua Greenplate		Pennsylvania College of Technology		Rodney Rose		Brigham Young University–Idaho
Bret Guzik		Indiana University–Purdue University–Indianapolis (Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council Award)		Angel Scharklet		Mid-Continent University (Yee Award)
Bonnie Guzman		Universal Technical Institute of Texas		Dave Schenker		Boise State University
Kalila Haddad		McPherson College		Kylee Scott		McPherson College
Mandar Hazare		Clemson University (Wally Parks Award)		Michael Scruggs		Clemson University
Robert Hemingway		California State University–Northridge		Christina Sepulveda		Nashville Auto Diesel College
Nicholas Hoffmann		University of Northwestern Ohio		Andrew Smallman		Kettering University
Howard Hsia		University of Southern California		Jordan Sneathen		University of Missouri–Columbia
Nina Hunter		Weber State University		Steven Thomalla		Saint Cloud State University (Lund Award)
Catalina Hurtado		University of Akron		Shelley Thurk		California State University-Northridge (SEMA Businesswomen's Network Award)
Jeffrey Jagusch		Northwood University (Michael A. Kunzman Award)		Steven Troy		Carnegie Mellon University
Nicole Kelsey		University of Arizona (Manufacturers Rep Council Award)		Nedim Vrtagic		Ohio State University
Jeffery Kesterson		Clackamas Community College (Thurston Warn Award)		Brandon Wight		McPherson College, Eastwood Company Award

Loan Forgiveness 

Jay Bargas		Denso Sales California		Michael Healy		Keystone Automotive Operations Inc.
Kimberly Biniak		Prestolite Performance		Jeremy Hepokoski		Roadwire (Professional Restylers Organization Award)
Brian Botts		Warehouse West (PWA Award)		Lance Hunter		Bully Dog Technologies
Laura Conrad		Kahn Media		Alberto Izarraraz		Falken Tire
Laurel Dasher		Powerteq (Superchips/Edge) Top Female Award		Aron Martin		Johnny's Auto Trim & Rod Shop (Hot Rod Industry Alliance Award)
Debra Dixon-Coen		Nissan North America (Trudy Thompson Award)		Robert Martin		Lane Automotive/Motor State Distributing
Kyla Dockery		Holley Performance Products		Nikki  Nichols		GPI/ Carquest
Marco Gutierrez		Kahn Media

	Top Female Award recipient, Laurel Dasher, of SEMA-member company Powerteq (Superchips/Edge).

Dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket industry leaders and innovators, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund awarded a total of $130,000 to 69 scholarship recipients for 2012, and $15,000 was awarded to 15 loan-forgiveness recipients. Over the life of the fund, $1.5 million has gone to 1,000 deserving students since it was started in 1984.

Scholarship awards range from $1,000 to $2,000, with $4,000 going to the top student. Assistance is available for career paths in the automotive industry in accounting, engineering, race-car driver/crew, administration, information technology, sales/marketing, advertising, manufacturing, technicians, design/graphics, photo/journalism and transportation. A full-tuition scholarship, valued at up to $29,400, is awarded to one student attending Ohio Technical College (OTC).

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program is dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their automotive aftermarket careers. The fund offers $1,000 awards toward outstanding student loans for individuals who are employed by SEMA-member companies.

To be eligible for an award, an applicant must be a U.S. citizen enrolled in a full-time program of study at an accredited university, college or vocational/technical program in the United States and have a minimum of a 2.5 grade point average. If currently attending a four-year university or college, the applicant must have completed a minimum of 50 college credits. If currently attending a two-year community college or vocational/technical program, the applicant must have completed a minimum of 25 college credits, or the equivalent in classroom hours.

The applicant must be pursuing studies leading to a career in the automotive aftermarket or related field and must remain enrolled as a full-time student for the first full semester, quarter or term following receipt of the award. Students may reapply each year as long as they continue to meet the eligibility criteria. The scholarships are to be applied to tuition, fees, books, supplies and equipment required for course load. A student may transfer from one institution to another and retain the award.

The online application for next year’s awards will be available December 3, 2012, through April 5, 2013.

For questions or additional information, please contact SEMA Education Administrator Juliet Marshall by phone at  909-978-6655 or via e-mail at julietm@SEMA.org.

To assure complete impartiality in the selection of winners and to maintain a high level of professionalism, all applications are reviewed by a panel of five independent judges. Additionally, International Scholarship & Tuition Services Inc.—a firm that specializes in managing sponsored scholarship programs—administers the program.

For additional information regarding the scholarship program, contact International Scholarship & Tuition Services Inc. at 855-670-ISTS or via e-mail at contact.us@applyists.com 
with "SEMA" in the subject line.

SEMA and the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund are pleased to present this year’s scholarship and loan forgiveness awards to the following students and member-company employees:

2012 Award Winners

Scholarship                           

Thomas Akins		School of Automotive Machinists		Andrew Komurka		Michigan Technological University
Samuel Ames		Brigham Young University–Idaho		Donovan Krehbiel		Kansas State University (Truck and Off-Road Alliance Award)
Andrew Baldwin		Brigham Young University–Idaho		Kevin Leparski		Southern Illinois University Carbondale (Street Performance Council Award)
Kirk Barber		Indiana University–Purdue University-Indianapolis		Jasmine MacLaughlin		University of Wisconsin–Madison (L.L. Borrick Award)
Kyle Barlow		Northwood University		Christopher Marquis		Ohio Technical College (OTC Award)
Ryan Baxter		Brigham Young University–Idaho		DeAnne Martinez		Weber State University
Casey Boyle		University of Michigan–Ann Arbor		Kenneth Marvel		Pennsylvania College of Technology (Dan Borre Award)
William Cannon		California State Polytechnic University–Pomona (Joe Hrudka Award)		Andrew Mattord		University of Northwestern Ohio
James Carter		University of Alabama at Birmingham (Jim Borre Award)		Brent Maynard		University of Northwestern Ohio
Daniel Chae		Art Center College of Design (Phil Weiand Award)		Angelo McCartney		Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Christopher Clark		Farmingdale State College		Shayne McConomy		Clemson University (Melvin Burton Award)
Alexandar Coralic		Cardinal Stritch University		Alex Miller		Georgia Institute of Technology (Bernie Karp Award)
John Crespo		San Bernardino Valley College (K&N Engineering Award)		Sara Mohon		Clemson University (Top Student Award)
Justin Crider		Pennsylvania College of Technology (Joseph B. Amato, Sr. Award)		Ryan O'Dette		University of Northwestern Ohio
Joshua Dahl		Brigham Young University (Young Executives Network Award)		Kyle Olason		North Dakota State University
Cayle Christian Damrow		University of Wisconsin–Stout (Wheel & Tire Council Award)		Jennifer Olfert		California State University–San Bernardino
Nataki DeForrest		Wayne State University		Michael Palmer		University of Northwestern Ohio
Ian Dunlap		Metropolitan State College of Denver		Brandon Peeler		Central Michigan University (Steve Woomer Award)
Chad Ediger		McPherson College		Michelle Perez		Skyline College (ARMO – Jeff Moses Award)
Ryan Eggebrecht		University of Michigan–Ann Arbor		Derek Riddle		Ohio State University
Jose Garcia		Colorado State University–Pueblo		Lissette Rios		University of Scranton
Michael Godfrey		University of Northwestern Ohio		Michael Robins		Northwood University
Joshua Greenplate		Pennsylvania College of Technology		Rodney Rose		Brigham Young University–Idaho
Bret Guzik		Indiana University–Purdue University–Indianapolis (Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council Award)		Angel Scharklet		Mid-Continent University (Yee Award)
Bonnie Guzman		Universal Technical Institute of Texas		Dave Schenker		Boise State University
Kalila Haddad		McPherson College		Kylee Scott		McPherson College
Mandar Hazare		Clemson University (Wally Parks Award)		Michael Scruggs		Clemson University
Robert Hemingway		California State University–Northridge		Christina Sepulveda		Nashville Auto Diesel College
Nicholas Hoffmann		University of Northwestern Ohio		Andrew Smallman		Kettering University
Howard Hsia		University of Southern California		Jordan Sneathen		University of Missouri–Columbia
Nina Hunter		Weber State University		Steven Thomalla		Saint Cloud State University (Lund Award)
Catalina Hurtado		University of Akron		Shelley Thurk		California State University-Northridge (SEMA Businesswomen's Network Award)
Jeffrey Jagusch		Northwood University (Michael A. Kunzman Award)		Steven Troy		Carnegie Mellon University
Nicole Kelsey		University of Arizona (Manufacturers Rep Council Award)		Nedim Vrtagic		Ohio State University
Jeffery Kesterson		Clackamas Community College (Thurston Warn Award)		Brandon Wight		McPherson College, Eastwood Company Award

Loan Forgiveness 

Jay Bargas		Denso Sales California		Michael Healy		Keystone Automotive Operations Inc.
Kimberly Biniak		Prestolite Performance		Jeremy Hepokoski		Roadwire (Professional Restylers Organization Award)
Brian Botts		Warehouse West (PWA Award)		Lance Hunter		Bully Dog Technologies
Laura Conrad		Kahn Media		Alberto Izarraraz		Falken Tire
Laurel Dasher		Powerteq (Superchips/Edge) Top Female Award		Aron Martin		Johnny's Auto Trim & Rod Shop (Hot Rod Industry Alliance Award)
Debra Dixon-Coen		Nissan North America (Trudy Thompson Award)		Robert Martin		Lane Automotive/Motor State Distributing
Kyla Dockery		Holley Performance Products		Nikki  Nichols		GPI/ Carquest
Marco Gutierrez		Kahn Media

	SEMA Show early-bird rates at the Cosmopolitan Hotel start as low as $175 per night.

The 2012 SEMA Show is only a few months away, and both exhibitors and attendees are making plans for the big event. While some hotels have already sold out, there are still great options and rates for anyone planning their trip to Vegas.

Early-bird rates are still in effect for many of the official hotels if you book through the SEMA block, but they all expire in the coming weeks, some as early as today. You will need to act fast to obtain these great rates.

 Travel Planners is the only official housing bureau associated with the 2012 SEMA Show. Only the official housing bureau has the seal you see to the right. 

If you have any questions regarding housing, please don’t hesitate to contact Travel Planners at 800-221-3531 or 212-532-1660.

Not registered for the SEMA Show? Don’t miss 2,000 of the hottest new products from 2,200 manufacturers, including leading brands and new exhibitors. Register today and save $50 off the price of on-site registration.

The following hotels are offering early-bird rates:

Hotel		Early-Bird Expiration		Rates As Low As
Aria		August 6		$184
Ballys Hotel & Casino		August 6		$89
Bellagio		August 6		$215
Best Western Mardi Gras		None		$82
Caesars Palace		August 6		$189
Circus Circus		August 6		$55
Cosmopolitan		None		$175
Elara Grand Vacations		None		$139
Excalibur		August 6		$75
Flamingo Las Vegas		August 6		$89
Golden Nugget		None		$85
Harrahs Las Vegas		Expired		$89
Hilton Grand Vacations on the Strip		None		$125
Hilton Grand Vacations Suites		None		$155
Imperial Palace		August 6		$59
Las Vegas Hotel (Former Las Vegas Hilton)		None		$175
Las Vegas Marriott		None		$169
Luxor Hotel		August 6		$85
MGM Grand Hotel		None		$143
Mandalay Bay		August 10		$80
Mirage Hotel		August 6		$165
Monte Carlo Resort		August 6		$110
New York New York		August 6		$115
Planet Hollywood		August 6		$129
Plaza Las Vegas		None		$65
Residence Inn Convention Center		None		$159
Signature at MGM Grand		None		$154
Stratosphere		None		$65
Treasure Island		None		$153
Trump Las Vegas		August 6		$145
Vdara		August 6		$169
Venetian		None		$199

	SEMA Show early-bird rates at the Cosmopolitan Hotel start as low as $175 per night.

The 2012 SEMA Show is only a few months away, and both exhibitors and attendees are making plans for the big event. While some hotels have already sold out, there are still great options and rates for anyone planning their trip to Vegas.

Early-bird rates are still in effect for many of the official hotels if you book through the SEMA block, but they all expire in the coming weeks, some as early as today. You will need to act fast to obtain these great rates.

 Travel Planners is the only official housing bureau associated with the 2012 SEMA Show. Only the official housing bureau has the seal you see to the right. 

If you have any questions regarding housing, please don’t hesitate to contact Travel Planners at 800-221-3531 or 212-532-1660.

Not registered for the SEMA Show? Don’t miss 2,000 of the hottest new products from 2,200 manufacturers, including leading brands and new exhibitors. Register today and save $50 off the price of on-site registration.

The following hotels are offering early-bird rates:

Hotel		Early-Bird Expiration		Rates As Low As
Aria		August 6		$184
Ballys Hotel & Casino		August 6		$89
Bellagio		August 6		$215
Best Western Mardi Gras		None		$82
Caesars Palace		August 6		$189
Circus Circus		August 6		$55
Cosmopolitan		None		$175
Elara Grand Vacations		None		$139
Excalibur		August 6		$75
Flamingo Las Vegas		August 6		$89
Golden Nugget		None		$85
Harrahs Las Vegas		Expired		$89
Hilton Grand Vacations on the Strip		None		$125
Hilton Grand Vacations Suites		None		$155
Imperial Palace		August 6		$59
Las Vegas Hotel (Former Las Vegas Hilton)		None		$175
Las Vegas Marriott		None		$169
Luxor Hotel		August 6		$85
MGM Grand Hotel		None		$143
Mandalay Bay		August 10		$80
Mirage Hotel		August 6		$165
Monte Carlo Resort		August 6		$110
New York New York		August 6		$115
Planet Hollywood		August 6		$129
Plaza Las Vegas		None		$65
Residence Inn Convention Center		None		$159
Signature at MGM Grand		None		$154
Stratosphere		None		$65
Treasure Island		None		$153
Trump Las Vegas		August 6		$145
Vdara		August 6		$169
Venetian		None		$199

	Gary Bowers' ’65 Mustang.
	Dave Walsh's ’32 Ford Victoria.

Gary Bowers, Dave Walsh Collect Top Awards at Goodguys 15th PPG Nationals
Pennsylvania’s Gary Bowers and Georgia’s Dave Walsh drove off with the top two awards at the Goodguys 15th PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio. Bowers’ bright orange ’65 Mustang won the Goodguys 2012 Optima Batteries Street Machine of the Year crown while Walsh’s jet-black ’32 Ford Victoria collected the Goodguys 2012 Classic Instruments Street Rod of the Year title.

Bowers’ high-tech, ground-hugging Mustang, named “Producer” and built by Ringbrothers, represents the latest in track-ready, show-quality super musclecars while Walsh’s Victoria, built by Bobby Alloway, represents the time-tested appeal of a smoothed-out early Ford.
For their victories in Columbus, both Bowers and Walsh will receive customized toolboxes from Snap-on and accommodations to the Goodguys 15th Southwest Nationals, November 16–18, to exhibit in the “Champions Arena.”

The top five finalists for the Goodguys 2012 Optima Batteries Street machine of the Year award were Dave Leisinger (’71 Camaro), Dana Irvin (’65 Mustang), Steve Keefer (’69 Camaro), Dale Boesch (’69 Camaro) and Bowers.

The top five finalists for the Goodguys 2012 Classic Instruments Street Rod of the Year award were Gary Crawford (’40 Chevy), Pete Datino (’32 Ford Coupe), Joe Stuban (’37 Ford Coupe), William Shores (’32 Ford Roadster) and Walsh.

Firestone's Ride-Rite brand will be featured on an episode of the PowerBlock TV show "Trucks!"

"Trucks!" TV Show to Highlight Firestone Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs and Accessories
Firestone Industrial Products Co. LLC has announced its Ride-Rite brand will be featured on an episode of the PowerBlock TV show "Trucks!" July 21–22, 2012, on Spike TV at 10:00 a.m. (EDT/PDT). The episode can also be viewed online by going to www.powerblocktv.com.

During the episode, "Trucks!" hosts Kevin Tetz and Ryan Shand will install Firestone's Ride-Rite air helper springs kit on a ’12 Ram 2500 4WD truck. According to Firestone, the Ride-Rite kit, which mounts between the truck's frame and suspension, uses air pressure to maximize the truck's safe load-carrying capacity and improve vehicle stability and braking.

"Trucks!" will also highlight Firestone's Heavy Duty Remote Air Command air accessory system, which, according to the company, is designed to provide an instant air source to Firestone's complete line of suspension solutions. 

Rich Gengo of Piscataway, New Jersey, was named the third of four 2012 Mopar "Top Eliminator" winners for his ’51 Dodge pickup truck at the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, July 6–8.

Rich Gengo Named Third Mopar ‘Top Eliminator’ of 2012
Rich Gengo of Piscataway, New Jersey, was named the third of four 2012 Mopar “Top Eliminator” winners for his ’51 Dodge pickup at the Carlisle Chrysler Nationals in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, July 6–8. Gengo was recognized in the Dodge Showcase display area during the three-day event.

The Mopar “Top Eliminator” program shines a light on passionate and dedicated Mopar enthusiasts who display unmatched skill in modifying or preserving a classic or modern-day Mopar vehicle. Gengo will be honored by having his ’51 Dodge pickup showcased in the Mopar display area at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, October 30–November 2, 2012.

Gengo devoted five years to restoring the ’51 Dodge pickup, which he purchased for $75, from an ad in the newspaper. One of the major modifications he made to the truck was to shorten the bed in order to put longer fenders on the frame. The truck, painted in Intense Blue, has a butterfly hood, which is the feature of the truck that originally caught Gengo’s attention when he was a teenager. On the interior, Gengo rearranged the original gauges and added air conditioning.

While working on his ’51 Dodge pickup, Gengo found many of the parts and pieces he was looking for at swap meets. He utilized numerous Mopar parts when completing the Dodge truck, including a Mopar 400 engine, a Mopar 727 transmission, Mopar electronic ignition, valve covers and an air cleaner. The final Mopar “Top Eliminator” winner of 2012 will be selected via an online competition, with details released at a later date.

	Goodridge moved to a new 17,000 sq.-ft. facility located in Mooresville, North Carolina.

Goodridge Moves to New 17,000 sq.-ft. Facility in Mooresville, North Carolina
Goodridge, a supplier of high-performance fluid transfer systems, recently moved to a new 17,000 sq.-ft. facility located in Mooresville, North Carolina. To celebrate the move, the company held a Grand Opening May 22 featuring facility tours, food, drink, live music, iPad and NASCAR Hall of Fame ticket raffles and vehicle displays.

The event was attended by more than 140 people from local race teams, trade organizations, customers, local and national press, members of the North Carolina Motorsport Association (NCMA) and local and international members of the UK Motorsport Association Industry Association (MIA) who were welcomed by Jamie Ramsden, vice president commercial North America, and Bill Ray, group managing director, among others.

Proceedings were kicked off with a ribbon cutting by the local Mooresville/South Iredell Chamber of Commerce. Then, guests were shown Goodridge products on numerous vehicles in different racing classes both inside and outside the building, as well as engines for NASCAR, Sprint Car Series and the NHRA.

All vehicles showcased Goodridge’s new G-Flex and G-Max hose offerings with accompanying single-piece crimp fittings and patented reusable ends. Guests were shown the dedicating machining center, which will take 6,000 ft. of the new factory floor and allow Goodridge to manufacture components in-house. In addition, this will allow Goodridge to manufacture hardline and flexible prototypes for OEM customers in North America, according to the company.

John Apogée

Jon Apogée Named Marketing Manager at Prolong Super Lubricants
Prolong Super Lubricants has appointed Jon Apogée to the position of marketing manager. Apogée will be responsible for all aspects of brand management, strategic marketing, website design and enhancement as well as search engine optimization. His duties include providing direction and implementation for social media marketing and Prolong's domestic sales.

With more than 30 years of experience, Apogée has worked with Prolong since 2007 as an advertising and marketing consultant for his own company, Marketing Matters Inc. Prior to joining Prolong, Apogée was the vice president of DuBois Advertising in Ontario, California, and director of marketing for SEMA.

Apogée also created the Motorsports department for Mitsubishi Motor Sales of America, where he guided the company into the U.S. racing circuit and led Mitsubishi to become the first manufacturer to win the "Class 7" (Mini Pick-up Truck) championship in both the High Desert Racing Association (HDRA) and Southern California Off Road Enterprises (SCORE) Championships.

	Dylan Kwasniewski

Royal Purple Launches Outperformer Series
High-performance synthetic lubricant manufacturer Royal Purple has launched a new branding campaign on its website—The Royal Purple Outperformer Series. The three-part video series focuses on individuals who have prevailed over adversity to reach the top of their respective fields.

Royal Purple’s first Outperformer video features the recently turned 17-year-old NASCAR K&N Pro Series West Driver Dylan Kwasniewski of Las Vegas. Kwasniewski was selected in part because of his success on the track as he moved through the ranks of Bandolero Bandits, U.S. Legends, ASA Speed Truck and late-model circuits. In 2011, Kwasniewski became the youngest winner in the history of the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West, and was honored as the Series’ Sunoco Rookie of the Year. He was also selected as one of NASCAR’s Next 9 for the class of 2011 and 2012, representing the next wave of young drivers who are expected to make an impact on the national series scene.

Kwasniewski has committed himself to focusing on the 2012 K&N Pro Series West season this year. In eight starts, he has recorded two wins, three second-place finishes and eight finishes in the top five to lead the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West point standings.

Two additional mini-documentaries featuring other Outperformers will air in August and September respectively. The videos, which average five minutes in length, will be promoted with 15-second clips on broadcast television and online.

Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels launches New Company Facebook Page
Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels has announced the launch of a new company Facebook page featuring all the latest company, product, racing and event news with photos, access to video and YouTube, fan postings, industry news and fun facts. The new Facebook page launched at the end of June. Watch for breaking news about new products, coverage of this season's drag racing and off-road racing events, updates on the Challenger 2.5 Project, preparations for the company’s 50th anniversary celebration and more.

Butch Kummer. Photo: SCCA.

SCCA Tabs Kummer As Director of Club Racing
The Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) has announced an addition to its full-time staff, naming Butch Kummer to the newly created director of club racing. Kummer’s role with the organization will focus on the national office-operated programs, specifically the 2013 rollout of the Majors program. Kummer will work closely with the regions to put together those events and will oversee and guide the club racing technical department.

A 30-year member of SCCA, Kummer has worked with the Southeast division and Atlanta region in a variety of leadership capacities, and has helped to restore the American Road Race of Champions to one of the premier events on the schedule. Kummer is also a long-time racer, with wins behind the wheel of both SCCA Club Racing and Solo cars.

In his position, Kummer will report to Terry Ozment, vice president of club racing. Initially, Kummer will split time working from both the national office in Topeka and his Woodstock, Georgia, home.

	Bestop has launched a new mobile website.

Bestop Launches Mobile Website
Bestop.com is now more readily accessible on smart phones, offering a focused, quicker experience for mobile device users, according to the company. The custom mobile site is designed for all mobile phones, and provides tablet users with an option of using the mobile site or the full site. The mobile site is automatically accessed by smartphone and tablet users.

Edelbrock Launches Mobile Website
Edelbrock has launched a brand-new mobile-friendly website optimized for hand-held smart phones. This new website has been designed and optimized specifically for use on mobile devices. According to the company, the site features an all-new look and utilizes the latest in HTML coding for quick download speeds.

The website will include sections focused on new products, Edelbrock videos and a complete calendar of events that Edelbrock will attend throughout the year. One of the key features on the mobile website is a search-engine database for more than 3,000 Edelbrock and Russell installation instructions. Digital versions of various Edelbrock and Russell catalogs will also be available for viewing on any smartphone. It will also give the viewer the option to download the complete catalogs in a PDF format.

 

At the request of organizers of Northwest Motorfest, Idaho Governor Butch Otter issued a proclamation designating July 13, 2012, as “Collector Car Appreciation Day” in the state. Idaho joins West Virginia, New Mexico, New York and Hawaii as states that have officially recognized the celebration. In addition, and thanks to the efforts of the Manitoba Association of Auto Clubs, the Manitoba Minister of Culture, Heritage and Tourism have recognized the celebration. The minister also proclaimed the month of July 2012 to be Collector Car Appreciation Month.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Senate passed Senate Resolution 452 at SEMA’s request to acknowledge the day’s national significance in raising awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society. The date marks the third commemoration in what has become an annual event.

In the previous two years, thousands of Americans have gathered at car cruises, parades and other events to celebrate our nation’s automotive heritage. By taking part in these events around the country, automotive enthusiasts and related businesses ensured that their passion was honored and recognized. 

There is still time to get involved. Individuals, car clubs and business owners have been registering their gatherings for inclusion on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. However you choose, please pay tribute to our hobby’s special day by holding or attending a celebration near you. Encourage others to follow suit. Let’s get those cars and trucks out of the garage and onto the road!



Please submit the details of your celebration. For questions, contact SEMA Action Network (SAN) Director Colby Martin at 909-978-6721 or san@sema.org. You may also download the official logo and flyer from the homepage and help promote this special day.

 

At the request of organizers of Northwest Motorfest, Idaho Governor Butch Otter issued a proclamation designating July 13, 2012, as “Collector Car Appreciation Day” in the state. Idaho joins West Virginia, New Mexico, New York and Hawaii as states that have officially recognized the celebration. In addition, and thanks to the efforts of the Manitoba Association of Auto Clubs, the Manitoba Minister of Culture, Heritage and Tourism have recognized the celebration. The minister also proclaimed the month of July 2012 to be Collector Car Appreciation Month.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Senate passed Senate Resolution 452 at SEMA’s request to acknowledge the day’s national significance in raising awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society. The date marks the third commemoration in what has become an annual event.

In the previous two years, thousands of Americans have gathered at car cruises, parades and other events to celebrate our nation’s automotive heritage. By taking part in these events around the country, automotive enthusiasts and related businesses ensured that their passion was honored and recognized. 

There is still time to get involved. Individuals, car clubs and business owners have been registering their gatherings for inclusion on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. However you choose, please pay tribute to our hobby’s special day by holding or attending a celebration near you. Encourage others to follow suit. Let’s get those cars and trucks out of the garage and onto the road!



Please submit the details of your celebration. For questions, contact SEMA Action Network (SAN) Director Colby Martin at 909-978-6721 or san@sema.org. You may also download the official logo and flyer from the homepage and help promote this special day.

 

At the request of organizers of Northwest Motorfest, Idaho Governor Butch Otter issued a proclamation designating July 13, 2012, as “Collector Car Appreciation Day” in the state. Idaho joins West Virginia, New Mexico, New York and Hawaii as states that have officially recognized the celebration. In addition, and thanks to the efforts of the Manitoba Association of Auto Clubs, the Manitoba Minister of Culture, Heritage and Tourism have recognized the celebration. The minister also proclaimed the month of July 2012 to be Collector Car Appreciation Month.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Senate passed Senate Resolution 452 at SEMA’s request to acknowledge the day’s national significance in raising awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society. The date marks the third commemoration in what has become an annual event.

In the previous two years, thousands of Americans have gathered at car cruises, parades and other events to celebrate our nation’s automotive heritage. By taking part in these events around the country, automotive enthusiasts and related businesses ensured that their passion was honored and recognized. 

There is still time to get involved. Individuals, car clubs and business owners have been registering their gatherings for inclusion on the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. However you choose, please pay tribute to our hobby’s special day by holding or attending a celebration near you. Encourage others to follow suit. Let’s get those cars and trucks out of the garage and onto the road!



Please submit the details of your celebration. For questions, contact SEMA Action Network (SAN) Director Colby Martin at 909-978-6721 or san@sema.org. You may also download the official logo and flyer from the homepage and help promote this special day.