By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The U.S. Congress and Trump administration are pursuing a number of separate and overlapping initiatives to change the way federal agencies make and review regulations. To follow is a brief summary:

• Executive Orders: In January, President Trump directed all government agencies to cut two existing regulations for each new regulation proposed and freeze issuance of any new regulations pending review. The freeze does not apply to emergency situations or other urgent circumstances. Regulations that are in progress but have not yet taken effect are also frozen for 60 days pending review of fact, law and policy. In February, President Trump directed federal agencies to establish task forces to review existing rules and identify outdated, unnecessary or ineffective rules that impact job creation or impose costs that exceed benefits. Normal procedures would still apply if seeking to eliminate existing rules, namely issuance of a proposed and final rule subject to public comment and court review.

• Legislation: The U.S. House of Representatives has already passed several bills that are now awaiting Senate consideration. The “Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act" would require congressional approval of regulations before they can take effect. The “Regulatory Accountability Act” would require federal agencies to identify the objective of a proposed rule and choose the lowest-cost alternative. The “Searching for and Cutting Regulations That Are Unnecessarily Burdensome (SCRUB) Act” would set up a five-year Congressional commission to review rules ripe for repeal. The “Regulatory Integrity Act” would require federal agencies to post an online record of rules and their status. Another bill would allow Congress to have joint oversight of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, which reviews rules proposed by the federal agencies within the White House Office of Management and Budget. It is unclear whether the U.S. Senate will be able to pass these bills since a 60-vote super-majority will likely be required. 

Under an existing law called the “Congressional Review Act,” Congress also has the authority to repeal rules already issued within the last 60 legislative days. The rule can be overturned by a simple majority vote in both the House and Senate and Presidential signature. Members of Congress are considering this approach for several rules issued before President Trump took office. 

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The U.S. Congress and Trump administration are pursuing a number of separate and overlapping initiatives to change the way federal agencies make and review regulations. To follow is a brief summary:

• Executive Orders: In January, President Trump directed all government agencies to cut two existing regulations for each new regulation proposed and freeze issuance of any new regulations pending review. The freeze does not apply to emergency situations or other urgent circumstances. Regulations that are in progress but have not yet taken effect are also frozen for 60 days pending review of fact, law and policy. In February, President Trump directed federal agencies to establish task forces to review existing rules and identify outdated, unnecessary or ineffective rules that impact job creation or impose costs that exceed benefits. Normal procedures would still apply if seeking to eliminate existing rules, namely issuance of a proposed and final rule subject to public comment and court review.

• Legislation: The U.S. House of Representatives has already passed several bills that are now awaiting Senate consideration. The “Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act" would require congressional approval of regulations before they can take effect. The “Regulatory Accountability Act” would require federal agencies to identify the objective of a proposed rule and choose the lowest-cost alternative. The “Searching for and Cutting Regulations That Are Unnecessarily Burdensome (SCRUB) Act” would set up a five-year Congressional commission to review rules ripe for repeal. The “Regulatory Integrity Act” would require federal agencies to post an online record of rules and their status. Another bill would allow Congress to have joint oversight of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, which reviews rules proposed by the federal agencies within the White House Office of Management and Budget. It is unclear whether the U.S. Senate will be able to pass these bills since a 60-vote super-majority will likely be required. 

Under an existing law called the “Congressional Review Act,” Congress also has the authority to repeal rules already issued within the last 60 legislative days. The rule can be overturned by a simple majority vote in both the House and Senate and Presidential signature. Members of Congress are considering this approach for several rules issued before President Trump took office. 

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The U.S. Congress and Trump administration are pursuing a number of separate and overlapping initiatives to change the way federal agencies make and review regulations. To follow is a brief summary:

• Executive Orders: In January, President Trump directed all government agencies to cut two existing regulations for each new regulation proposed and freeze issuance of any new regulations pending review. The freeze does not apply to emergency situations or other urgent circumstances. Regulations that are in progress but have not yet taken effect are also frozen for 60 days pending review of fact, law and policy. In February, President Trump directed federal agencies to establish task forces to review existing rules and identify outdated, unnecessary or ineffective rules that impact job creation or impose costs that exceed benefits. Normal procedures would still apply if seeking to eliminate existing rules, namely issuance of a proposed and final rule subject to public comment and court review.

• Legislation: The U.S. House of Representatives has already passed several bills that are now awaiting Senate consideration. The “Regulations From the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act" would require congressional approval of regulations before they can take effect. The “Regulatory Accountability Act” would require federal agencies to identify the objective of a proposed rule and choose the lowest-cost alternative. The “Searching for and Cutting Regulations That Are Unnecessarily Burdensome (SCRUB) Act” would set up a five-year Congressional commission to review rules ripe for repeal. The “Regulatory Integrity Act” would require federal agencies to post an online record of rules and their status. Another bill would allow Congress to have joint oversight of the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, which reviews rules proposed by the federal agencies within the White House Office of Management and Budget. It is unclear whether the U.S. Senate will be able to pass these bills since a 60-vote super-majority will likely be required. 

Under an existing law called the “Congressional Review Act,” Congress also has the authority to repeal rules already issued within the last 60 legislative days. The rule can be overturned by a simple majority vote in both the House and Senate and Presidential signature. Members of Congress are considering this approach for several rules issued before President Trump took office. 

For more information, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By Amelia Zwecher

Finding the best employment candidates can be challenging, oftentimes because skilled individuals are often selective about where they apply and even more so about the job offers that they accept, especially if they are currently employed.

Most managers and business owners would agree that finding the best employment candidates can be challenging, time consuming and costly. Skilled individuals are often selective about where they apply and even more so about the job offers they accept, especially if they are currently employed. It’s a safe assumption that top talent seek employers who appear well structured, professional and employee friendly.

An abundance of published articles highlight the importance of branding in talent acquisition, but fewer focus on how the job description actually portrays a company. How can an employer create a standout job description that is easy to understand, but doesn’t leave too much ambiguity to the job seeker? Here are some simple tips to assist automotive industry employers:

• There’s a fine line between too much detail and not enough. Always include the basics: job title, summary, key responsibilities and duties, skills and qualifications, department and supervisor, salary range and benefits, location, type of employment and company overview.
• Use direct language and less industry jargon.
• Always spell check and ensure every job description follows the same layout and format. Consistency and accuracy are important.
• Make every effort to avoid using exclamation points and all capital letters to emphasize specific words or phrases. The message may not relay to the reader as intended and could offend someone.
• Embody the company culture and personality of the organization in a couple of sentences. It’s ok to include fun and friendly information that’s appropriate and will attract candidates. The SEMA Career Center offers some exciting job posting enhancements that are worth a look (social media recruiting, digital job video and featured job).

“Remember first impressions are often lasting ones.”

The SEMA Career Center is a one-stop shop for expert advice and talent acquisition. Look out for upcoming articles in SEMA eNews identifying additional steps to attract top talent. Visit the SEMA HR Hub for more information on developing job descriptions and check out the HR Hub User Guide.

For more information, contact manager of career services, Amelia F. Zwecher, PhD, PHR, at ameliaz@sema.org.

By Amelia Zwecher

Finding the best employment candidates can be challenging, oftentimes because skilled individuals are often selective about where they apply and even more so about the job offers that they accept, especially if they are currently employed.

Most managers and business owners would agree that finding the best employment candidates can be challenging, time consuming and costly. Skilled individuals are often selective about where they apply and even more so about the job offers they accept, especially if they are currently employed. It’s a safe assumption that top talent seek employers who appear well structured, professional and employee friendly.

An abundance of published articles highlight the importance of branding in talent acquisition, but fewer focus on how the job description actually portrays a company. How can an employer create a standout job description that is easy to understand, but doesn’t leave too much ambiguity to the job seeker? Here are some simple tips to assist automotive industry employers:

• There’s a fine line between too much detail and not enough. Always include the basics: job title, summary, key responsibilities and duties, skills and qualifications, department and supervisor, salary range and benefits, location, type of employment and company overview.
• Use direct language and less industry jargon.
• Always spell check and ensure every job description follows the same layout and format. Consistency and accuracy are important.
• Make every effort to avoid using exclamation points and all capital letters to emphasize specific words or phrases. The message may not relay to the reader as intended and could offend someone.
• Embody the company culture and personality of the organization in a couple of sentences. It’s ok to include fun and friendly information that’s appropriate and will attract candidates. The SEMA Career Center offers some exciting job posting enhancements that are worth a look (social media recruiting, digital job video and featured job).

“Remember first impressions are often lasting ones.”

The SEMA Career Center is a one-stop shop for expert advice and talent acquisition. Look out for upcoming articles in SEMA eNews identifying additional steps to attract top talent. Visit the SEMA HR Hub for more information on developing job descriptions and check out the HR Hub User Guide.

For more information, contact manager of career services, Amelia F. Zwecher, PhD, PHR, at ameliaz@sema.org.

By Amelia Zwecher

Finding the best employment candidates can be challenging, oftentimes because skilled individuals are often selective about where they apply and even more so about the job offers that they accept, especially if they are currently employed.

Most managers and business owners would agree that finding the best employment candidates can be challenging, time consuming and costly. Skilled individuals are often selective about where they apply and even more so about the job offers they accept, especially if they are currently employed. It’s a safe assumption that top talent seek employers who appear well structured, professional and employee friendly.

An abundance of published articles highlight the importance of branding in talent acquisition, but fewer focus on how the job description actually portrays a company. How can an employer create a standout job description that is easy to understand, but doesn’t leave too much ambiguity to the job seeker? Here are some simple tips to assist automotive industry employers:

• There’s a fine line between too much detail and not enough. Always include the basics: job title, summary, key responsibilities and duties, skills and qualifications, department and supervisor, salary range and benefits, location, type of employment and company overview.
• Use direct language and less industry jargon.
• Always spell check and ensure every job description follows the same layout and format. Consistency and accuracy are important.
• Make every effort to avoid using exclamation points and all capital letters to emphasize specific words or phrases. The message may not relay to the reader as intended and could offend someone.
• Embody the company culture and personality of the organization in a couple of sentences. It’s ok to include fun and friendly information that’s appropriate and will attract candidates. The SEMA Career Center offers some exciting job posting enhancements that are worth a look (social media recruiting, digital job video and featured job).

“Remember first impressions are often lasting ones.”

The SEMA Career Center is a one-stop shop for expert advice and talent acquisition. Look out for upcoming articles in SEMA eNews identifying additional steps to attract top talent. Visit the SEMA HR Hub for more information on developing job descriptions and check out the HR Hub User Guide.

For more information, contact manager of career services, Amelia F. Zwecher, PhD, PHR, at ameliaz@sema.org.

SEMA News—March 2017

SEMA EVENTS

By Mike Imlay

Built by Omix-ADA and Petty’s Garage, the Charity Vehicle Now Heads for Auction

NASCAR legend Richard Petty stands beside the completed Jeep outside his Level Cross facility in North Carolina. The vehicle project holds special significance for Petty, who dedicated it to the memory of his grandson Adam.

In what has become an annual tradition, Omix-ADA recently unveiled a project Jeep built in support of SEMA Cares, the association’s program benefitting children’s charities. The debut took place at the recent 50th anniversary SEMA Show in Las Vegas. After its unveiling at SEMA Central, the vehicle served as a dramatic conversation piece, raising vital awareness for SEMA Cares charitable efforts within the automotive aftermarket.

The 2016 SEMA Cares Jeep—a joint creation of Omix-ADA and Petty’s Garage—heightened awareness for SEMA Cares charities at SEMA Central during the recent SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The highly customized vehicle is now slated for auction to benefit Victory Junction, a camp dedicated to children affected by serious medical conditions.

From front to rear, the Jeep’s powerful looks and real-life ability promise its lucky winning bidder a true trail-blazing vehicle benefitting a worthy children’s cause.

The 2016 Hydro Blue JK Rubicon was transformed into the “ultimate off-road masterpiece” through the addition of a full array of Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge parts and accessories and emblazoned with logos, leaving no doubt as to its prestigious heritage and purpose.

The custom Jeep represents the fourth time that the Jeep accessories manufacturer and wholesaler has partnered with SEMA Cares. The vehicle now will go on to auction at Mecum Houston this April, with the proceeds earmarked for Victory Junction, a camp dedicated to enriching the lives of children affected by serious illness or chronic medical conditions.

The 2016 project Jeep was crafted by the automotive experts at Petty’s Garage in Level Cross, North Carolina. A high-performance speed shop founded by famed stock-car racer Richard Petty in 2008, the garage is known for its high-end, precision vehicle builds. In fact, Petty’s involvement with the SEMA Cares Jeep is especially poignant because Victory Junction is a child-help facility inspired by and operating as a living tribute to Petty’s grandson Adam, who was lost in a racing accident in 2000. As a teenager, Adam, who had a passion for helping children, dreamed of developing such a camp in the hills of North Carolina. After his death, the Petty family took up his passion, supporting children’s causes in Adam’s memory.

“This is the fourth year we are partnering with SEMA Cares, with this year’s charity being Victory Junction,” said Henk Van Dongen, Omix-ADA director of marketing. “Al Azadi, owner of Omix-ADA, decided many years ago that he should give back to the communities that have provided him and his family with so much over the past decades. Each year, he makes donations related to health, the automotive aftermarket industry, local charities and many more. SEMA Cares is one of the charities that is near to us, as it relates to the aftermarket and our industry at large.”

The custom Petty’s Garage-built Jeep Wrangler JKU began life as a stock 2016 Hydro Blue JK Rubicon and was transformed into the “ultimate off-road masterpiece” through the addition of a full array of Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge parts and accessories—many never before seen in the market. Some of the more noteworthy products include the company’s Exo-Top soft top for four-door JK Wranglers, a performance vented hood kit, a Spartan Grille with LED lighting mesh insert, and smooth Hurricane fender flares. Vehicle body protection is further enhanced by a Spartacus front bumper and Elite Euro Guards, front and rear, while a Spartacus HD tire carrier adds utility.

The already-tough Jeep was made even more rough-and-ready courtesy of new skidplates for the steering, transfer case, engine and transmission. The vehicle rides on a new 4-in. lift kit, Fox shocks and 20x9 HD Wheels wrapped with General Grabber tires, while a fresh adjustable track bar, HD ball joints and steering stabilizer add durability and sure-footedness. A Magnuson supercharger and MagnaFlow exhaust boost performance, and the ability to ford standing water is enhanced through a Rugged Ridge snorkel with pre-filter. Tube doors and various interior upgrades round out the Jeep’s powerful looks and real-life ability to stand up to the elements.

The SEMA Cares Committee was established in 2007 by the SEMA Board of Directors, with an aim to bring the voice and resources of the SEMA community together to make a positive difference in the lives of others through outreach programs and various fundraising efforts.

For more information on SEMA Cares and its work with local communities, visit www.sema.org/sema-cares. For more information on Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge, visit www.omix-ada.com, or call 770-614-6101.

SEMA News—March 2017

SEMA EVENTS

By Mike Imlay

Built by Omix-ADA and Petty’s Garage, the Charity Vehicle Now Heads for Auction

NASCAR legend Richard Petty stands beside the completed Jeep outside his Level Cross facility in North Carolina. The vehicle project holds special significance for Petty, who dedicated it to the memory of his grandson Adam.

In what has become an annual tradition, Omix-ADA recently unveiled a project Jeep built in support of SEMA Cares, the association’s program benefitting children’s charities. The debut took place at the recent 50th anniversary SEMA Show in Las Vegas. After its unveiling at SEMA Central, the vehicle served as a dramatic conversation piece, raising vital awareness for SEMA Cares charitable efforts within the automotive aftermarket.

The 2016 SEMA Cares Jeep—a joint creation of Omix-ADA and Petty’s Garage—heightened awareness for SEMA Cares charities at SEMA Central during the recent SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The highly customized vehicle is now slated for auction to benefit Victory Junction, a camp dedicated to children affected by serious medical conditions.

From front to rear, the Jeep’s powerful looks and real-life ability promise its lucky winning bidder a true trail-blazing vehicle benefitting a worthy children’s cause.

The 2016 Hydro Blue JK Rubicon was transformed into the “ultimate off-road masterpiece” through the addition of a full array of Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge parts and accessories and emblazoned with logos, leaving no doubt as to its prestigious heritage and purpose.

The custom Jeep represents the fourth time that the Jeep accessories manufacturer and wholesaler has partnered with SEMA Cares. The vehicle now will go on to auction at Mecum Houston this April, with the proceeds earmarked for Victory Junction, a camp dedicated to enriching the lives of children affected by serious illness or chronic medical conditions.

The 2016 project Jeep was crafted by the automotive experts at Petty’s Garage in Level Cross, North Carolina. A high-performance speed shop founded by famed stock-car racer Richard Petty in 2008, the garage is known for its high-end, precision vehicle builds. In fact, Petty’s involvement with the SEMA Cares Jeep is especially poignant because Victory Junction is a child-help facility inspired by and operating as a living tribute to Petty’s grandson Adam, who was lost in a racing accident in 2000. As a teenager, Adam, who had a passion for helping children, dreamed of developing such a camp in the hills of North Carolina. After his death, the Petty family took up his passion, supporting children’s causes in Adam’s memory.

“This is the fourth year we are partnering with SEMA Cares, with this year’s charity being Victory Junction,” said Henk Van Dongen, Omix-ADA director of marketing. “Al Azadi, owner of Omix-ADA, decided many years ago that he should give back to the communities that have provided him and his family with so much over the past decades. Each year, he makes donations related to health, the automotive aftermarket industry, local charities and many more. SEMA Cares is one of the charities that is near to us, as it relates to the aftermarket and our industry at large.”

The custom Petty’s Garage-built Jeep Wrangler JKU began life as a stock 2016 Hydro Blue JK Rubicon and was transformed into the “ultimate off-road masterpiece” through the addition of a full array of Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge parts and accessories—many never before seen in the market. Some of the more noteworthy products include the company’s Exo-Top soft top for four-door JK Wranglers, a performance vented hood kit, a Spartan Grille with LED lighting mesh insert, and smooth Hurricane fender flares. Vehicle body protection is further enhanced by a Spartacus front bumper and Elite Euro Guards, front and rear, while a Spartacus HD tire carrier adds utility.

The already-tough Jeep was made even more rough-and-ready courtesy of new skidplates for the steering, transfer case, engine and transmission. The vehicle rides on a new 4-in. lift kit, Fox shocks and 20x9 HD Wheels wrapped with General Grabber tires, while a fresh adjustable track bar, HD ball joints and steering stabilizer add durability and sure-footedness. A Magnuson supercharger and MagnaFlow exhaust boost performance, and the ability to ford standing water is enhanced through a Rugged Ridge snorkel with pre-filter. Tube doors and various interior upgrades round out the Jeep’s powerful looks and real-life ability to stand up to the elements.

The SEMA Cares Committee was established in 2007 by the SEMA Board of Directors, with an aim to bring the voice and resources of the SEMA community together to make a positive difference in the lives of others through outreach programs and various fundraising efforts.

For more information on SEMA Cares and its work with local communities, visit www.sema.org/sema-cares. For more information on Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge, visit www.omix-ada.com, or call 770-614-6101.

SEMA News—March 2017

SEMA EVENTS

By Mike Imlay

Built by Omix-ADA and Petty’s Garage, the Charity Vehicle Now Heads for Auction

NASCAR legend Richard Petty stands beside the completed Jeep outside his Level Cross facility in North Carolina. The vehicle project holds special significance for Petty, who dedicated it to the memory of his grandson Adam.

In what has become an annual tradition, Omix-ADA recently unveiled a project Jeep built in support of SEMA Cares, the association’s program benefitting children’s charities. The debut took place at the recent 50th anniversary SEMA Show in Las Vegas. After its unveiling at SEMA Central, the vehicle served as a dramatic conversation piece, raising vital awareness for SEMA Cares charitable efforts within the automotive aftermarket.

The 2016 SEMA Cares Jeep—a joint creation of Omix-ADA and Petty’s Garage—heightened awareness for SEMA Cares charities at SEMA Central during the recent SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The highly customized vehicle is now slated for auction to benefit Victory Junction, a camp dedicated to children affected by serious medical conditions.

From front to rear, the Jeep’s powerful looks and real-life ability promise its lucky winning bidder a true trail-blazing vehicle benefitting a worthy children’s cause.

The 2016 Hydro Blue JK Rubicon was transformed into the “ultimate off-road masterpiece” through the addition of a full array of Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge parts and accessories and emblazoned with logos, leaving no doubt as to its prestigious heritage and purpose.

The custom Jeep represents the fourth time that the Jeep accessories manufacturer and wholesaler has partnered with SEMA Cares. The vehicle now will go on to auction at Mecum Houston this April, with the proceeds earmarked for Victory Junction, a camp dedicated to enriching the lives of children affected by serious illness or chronic medical conditions.

The 2016 project Jeep was crafted by the automotive experts at Petty’s Garage in Level Cross, North Carolina. A high-performance speed shop founded by famed stock-car racer Richard Petty in 2008, the garage is known for its high-end, precision vehicle builds. In fact, Petty’s involvement with the SEMA Cares Jeep is especially poignant because Victory Junction is a child-help facility inspired by and operating as a living tribute to Petty’s grandson Adam, who was lost in a racing accident in 2000. As a teenager, Adam, who had a passion for helping children, dreamed of developing such a camp in the hills of North Carolina. After his death, the Petty family took up his passion, supporting children’s causes in Adam’s memory.

“This is the fourth year we are partnering with SEMA Cares, with this year’s charity being Victory Junction,” said Henk Van Dongen, Omix-ADA director of marketing. “Al Azadi, owner of Omix-ADA, decided many years ago that he should give back to the communities that have provided him and his family with so much over the past decades. Each year, he makes donations related to health, the automotive aftermarket industry, local charities and many more. SEMA Cares is one of the charities that is near to us, as it relates to the aftermarket and our industry at large.”

The custom Petty’s Garage-built Jeep Wrangler JKU began life as a stock 2016 Hydro Blue JK Rubicon and was transformed into the “ultimate off-road masterpiece” through the addition of a full array of Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge parts and accessories—many never before seen in the market. Some of the more noteworthy products include the company’s Exo-Top soft top for four-door JK Wranglers, a performance vented hood kit, a Spartan Grille with LED lighting mesh insert, and smooth Hurricane fender flares. Vehicle body protection is further enhanced by a Spartacus front bumper and Elite Euro Guards, front and rear, while a Spartacus HD tire carrier adds utility.

The already-tough Jeep was made even more rough-and-ready courtesy of new skidplates for the steering, transfer case, engine and transmission. The vehicle rides on a new 4-in. lift kit, Fox shocks and 20x9 HD Wheels wrapped with General Grabber tires, while a fresh adjustable track bar, HD ball joints and steering stabilizer add durability and sure-footedness. A Magnuson supercharger and MagnaFlow exhaust boost performance, and the ability to ford standing water is enhanced through a Rugged Ridge snorkel with pre-filter. Tube doors and various interior upgrades round out the Jeep’s powerful looks and real-life ability to stand up to the elements.

The SEMA Cares Committee was established in 2007 by the SEMA Board of Directors, with an aim to bring the voice and resources of the SEMA community together to make a positive difference in the lives of others through outreach programs and various fundraising efforts.

For more information on SEMA Cares and its work with local communities, visit www.sema.org/sema-cares. For more information on Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge, visit www.omix-ada.com, or call 770-614-6101.

SEMA News—March 2017

SEMA EVENTS

By Mike Imlay

Built by Omix-ADA and Petty’s Garage, the Charity Vehicle Now Heads for Auction

NASCAR legend Richard Petty stands beside the completed Jeep outside his Level Cross facility in North Carolina. The vehicle project holds special significance for Petty, who dedicated it to the memory of his grandson Adam.

In what has become an annual tradition, Omix-ADA recently unveiled a project Jeep built in support of SEMA Cares, the association’s program benefitting children’s charities. The debut took place at the recent 50th anniversary SEMA Show in Las Vegas. After its unveiling at SEMA Central, the vehicle served as a dramatic conversation piece, raising vital awareness for SEMA Cares charitable efforts within the automotive aftermarket.

The 2016 SEMA Cares Jeep—a joint creation of Omix-ADA and Petty’s Garage—heightened awareness for SEMA Cares charities at SEMA Central during the recent SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The highly customized vehicle is now slated for auction to benefit Victory Junction, a camp dedicated to children affected by serious medical conditions.

From front to rear, the Jeep’s powerful looks and real-life ability promise its lucky winning bidder a true trail-blazing vehicle benefitting a worthy children’s cause.

The 2016 Hydro Blue JK Rubicon was transformed into the “ultimate off-road masterpiece” through the addition of a full array of Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge parts and accessories and emblazoned with logos, leaving no doubt as to its prestigious heritage and purpose.

The custom Jeep represents the fourth time that the Jeep accessories manufacturer and wholesaler has partnered with SEMA Cares. The vehicle now will go on to auction at Mecum Houston this April, with the proceeds earmarked for Victory Junction, a camp dedicated to enriching the lives of children affected by serious illness or chronic medical conditions.

The 2016 project Jeep was crafted by the automotive experts at Petty’s Garage in Level Cross, North Carolina. A high-performance speed shop founded by famed stock-car racer Richard Petty in 2008, the garage is known for its high-end, precision vehicle builds. In fact, Petty’s involvement with the SEMA Cares Jeep is especially poignant because Victory Junction is a child-help facility inspired by and operating as a living tribute to Petty’s grandson Adam, who was lost in a racing accident in 2000. As a teenager, Adam, who had a passion for helping children, dreamed of developing such a camp in the hills of North Carolina. After his death, the Petty family took up his passion, supporting children’s causes in Adam’s memory.

“This is the fourth year we are partnering with SEMA Cares, with this year’s charity being Victory Junction,” said Henk Van Dongen, Omix-ADA director of marketing. “Al Azadi, owner of Omix-ADA, decided many years ago that he should give back to the communities that have provided him and his family with so much over the past decades. Each year, he makes donations related to health, the automotive aftermarket industry, local charities and many more. SEMA Cares is one of the charities that is near to us, as it relates to the aftermarket and our industry at large.”

The custom Petty’s Garage-built Jeep Wrangler JKU began life as a stock 2016 Hydro Blue JK Rubicon and was transformed into the “ultimate off-road masterpiece” through the addition of a full array of Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge parts and accessories—many never before seen in the market. Some of the more noteworthy products include the company’s Exo-Top soft top for four-door JK Wranglers, a performance vented hood kit, a Spartan Grille with LED lighting mesh insert, and smooth Hurricane fender flares. Vehicle body protection is further enhanced by a Spartacus front bumper and Elite Euro Guards, front and rear, while a Spartacus HD tire carrier adds utility.

The already-tough Jeep was made even more rough-and-ready courtesy of new skidplates for the steering, transfer case, engine and transmission. The vehicle rides on a new 4-in. lift kit, Fox shocks and 20x9 HD Wheels wrapped with General Grabber tires, while a fresh adjustable track bar, HD ball joints and steering stabilizer add durability and sure-footedness. A Magnuson supercharger and MagnaFlow exhaust boost performance, and the ability to ford standing water is enhanced through a Rugged Ridge snorkel with pre-filter. Tube doors and various interior upgrades round out the Jeep’s powerful looks and real-life ability to stand up to the elements.

The SEMA Cares Committee was established in 2007 by the SEMA Board of Directors, with an aim to bring the voice and resources of the SEMA community together to make a positive difference in the lives of others through outreach programs and various fundraising efforts.

For more information on SEMA Cares and its work with local communities, visit www.sema.org/sema-cares. For more information on Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge, visit www.omix-ada.com, or call 770-614-6101.