SEMA News—October 2015

INDUSTRY NEWS

	SEMA is now accepting nominations for candidates to attend the inaugural Emerging Leaders Conference, to be held November 2 from 1:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the day before the opening of the 2015 SEMA Show.

SEMA Launches Emerging Leaders Conference

The SEMA Emerging Leaders Conference might be just the push to turn your promising employees into the type of leaders you believe they can be. Participants will gain skills needed to think strategically about their careers and company’s future; a greater understanding of how to leverage their own strengths; and the chance to meet and network with others just like themselves.

SEMA is now accepting nominations for candidates to attend the inaugural Emerging Leaders Conference, to be held November 2 from 1:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the day before the opening of the 2015 SEMA Show.

To nominate up-and-coming professionals in your organization who have three to five years’ experience in the industry, visit www.sema.org/leaders-conference. The cost of the conference (not including SEMA Show registration) is $75 for SEMA members and $125 for non-members.

For more details, contact SEMA Director of Education Zane Clark at zanec@sema.org.

Free Admission to SEMA Ignited for Registered Showgoers

SEMA Ignited is open to the public and includes vehicles, demonstrations, industry celebrities, entertainment and excitement from the SEMA Show.

SEMA Ignited—the official SEMA Show after-party taking place in Las Vegas Friday, November 6, 2015, from 3:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.—offers free admission to all credentialed SEMA Show attendees.

The Friday-night festival connects consumers with SEMA Show vehicles and can be described as the ultimate fan experience. While the SEMA Show is an exclusive event open only to those working in the industry, SEMA Ignited is open to the public and includes vehicles, demonstrations, industry celebrities, entertainment and excitement from the SEMA Show.

The annual SEMA Cruise, which includes more than 500 display vehicles from the Show, will wind its way from the Convention Center to the Gold Lot across the street, kicking off the evening.

To enjoy the free entertainment, showgoers simply need to indicate that they will attend SEMA Ignited when completing their Show applications, then make sure to bring their Show credentials to the event.

Your Chance to Win the Transamerican Auto Parts’ SEMA Vehicle Builder Award

Transamerican Auto Parts will introduce the “Life Is Better Off-Road” SEMA Builder Award at the 2015 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The award is an industry prize bestowed by Transamerican Auto Parts to the best-presented, truly off-road-capable truck, Jeep or SUV on display at the Show.

This award is open to all off-road vehicle constructors and product manufacturers displaying at the 2015 SEMA Show and will be judged by an elite panel of industry experts. One Jeep and one truck/SUV will be chosen from the pool of applicants as the two finalists vie for the designation of being the most authentic off-road-capable vehicle at the Show.

The award will be presented Thursday, November 5, at 2:00 p.m., at the ProComp/Transamerican Auto Parts booth #62112 within the SEMA SCORE Baja 1000 Experience area (located outside of the South Hall in the Silver Lot).

Submit your off-road SEMA display vehicle for award consideration at
www.transamericanautoparts.com/award.

New Guide Covers Best Practices for Oversized Wheels

The “Ride Guides” from the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council are free resources for wheel and tire retailers

SEMA’s Wheel and Tire Council (WTC) has released the first two installments of a series of “Ride Guides”—a set of sales tools for wheel and tire retailers. Each guide contains comparisons of the effects of plus-sizing wheel and tire packages on factors such as ride comfort, road grip and steering response. Volume 1, covering the 12th generation F-150 (’09–’14), includes easy-to-read technical data compiled by the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research.

Guided by the data in the report, sales professionals can better assist customers in narrowing style and design preferences for fullsize pickups based on performance characteristics. As customers see the comparisons in a graphical format with simplified explanations, they can be confident and informed in making their selections.

In addition to the F-150, which represents the fullsize pickup segment, a “Ride Guide” for the ’14 Mazda3 is also available, representing the front-wheel-drive compact sedan sector. Both manuals are free to all wheel and tire retailers.

To download copies of the WTC “Ride Guides,” visit www.sema.org/ride-guide.

SEMA News—October 2015

EVENTS
By Colby Martin

SEMA Pays Tribute to the Hobby

Members Nationwide Celebrate Sixth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day

	Chattanooga, Tennessee’s Coker Tire hosted a Collector Car Appreciation Day cruise-in and BBQ for employees and local enthusiasts.

On July 10, 2015, SEMA members joined with car clubs and thousands of enthusiasts to celebrate the sixth annual Collector Car Appreciation Day (CCAD). A wide range of official events was held in the United States, Canada and France to commemorate the day, designated by SEMA-requested U.S. Senate Resolution 196 (S. Res. 196), sponsored by Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT).

The U.S. Senate Resolution recognized “that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.” Lawmakers in states, counties and local areas all over the country and Canada followed the Senate’s lead.

The states of Louisiana and West Virginia—as well as the Canadian Provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan—adopted their own resolutions commemorating the day.

Intended to celebrate the classics of the past and the future, the official events (numbering more than 150) included car-club cruise-ins, open houses at SEMA-member companies, specialty shows at automobile museums and “drive your collector car to work” displays. Scores of other unofficial events included car shows, picnics and “holiday sales” in honor of the occasion.

A detailed summary and an online photo gallery of CCAD celebrations are available on the SEMA Action Network’s (SAN) website at www.SEMAsan.com/ccad.

CCAD is supported by SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization and Hot Rod Industry Alliance.

York Nostalgia held a Cruisin’ Into Summer Cruise-in during the 14th Annual Musclecar Madness at the York Reunion.	Energy Suspension of San Clemente, California, hosted an employee cruise-in.	Gary Brown (right) of Gary’s Classic Car Fridays in Buena Park, California, was recognized by SAN Director Colby Martin with a framedcopy of Senate Resolution 196 for his years of support.
Members of the SEMA staff drove their prized vehicles to work in Diamond Bar, California.	Smiley’s Custom Headers celebrated in Upland, California, with a cruise to the Sizzlin’ Restaurant on Route 66.	Employees at the SEMA Data Co-op in Lenexa, Kansas, drove their special cars to work in honor of the day.
Volkswagen Group of America in Auburn Hills, Michigan, hosted a diverse collection of vehicles during its cruise-in.	Steele Rubber Products of Denver, North Carolina, once again hosted a cruise-in and BBQ to celebrate the hobby’s special day.	Collector Car Appreciation Week was held by Walker Tire/Quick Nick’s Service Centers in Lincoln, Nebraska, to honor the occasion.
D&S Automotive of Mentor, Ohio, tied its festivities into its annual Cruise-In For Rainbow Babies.	From left to right, Goodguys President Marc Meadors, SEMA Council Director Jim Skelly, HRIA Chair-Elect John McLeod of Classic Instruments and Goodguys Founder and Chairman Gary Meadors saluted CCAD at the Goodguys 18th PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio.	The Filling Station held its fourth annual open house and cruise-in in Lebanon, Oregon, to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day.
Comp Cams marked CCAD with a Drive Your Cool Car to Work Day for employees in Memphis, Tennessee.	Daniels Performance Group of Smithfield, Virginia, held a CCAD cruise-in.	Hemmings Motor News held its annual National Collector Car Day Cruise-in at its headquarters in Bennington, Vermont.
Rinard Kissel (left), representing U.S. Representative Alex Mooney, presented U.S. Senate Resolution 196 to Rick Heavner (center) of West Virginia’s Knobley Mountain Car Club. West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell (right) presented Governor Earl Ray Tomblin’s proclamation designating July 10, 2015, as Collector Car Appreciation Day in the state.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.	Blacktop Depot of Orange, California, invited enthusiasts to create photo memories of their collector cars.
Fullerton, California’s Dr. Detail held a sale on July 10, 2015. SAN Director Colby Martin (right) presented owner Wayne Loomis with a framed copy of Senate Resolution 196.	The US Cars Club of Normandy, France, held a rally and vintage American cars expo to celebrate on July 4, 2015.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

SEMA News—October 2015

EVENTS
By Colby Martin

SEMA Pays Tribute to the Hobby

Members Nationwide Celebrate Sixth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day

	Chattanooga, Tennessee’s Coker Tire hosted a Collector Car Appreciation Day cruise-in and BBQ for employees and local enthusiasts.

On July 10, 2015, SEMA members joined with car clubs and thousands of enthusiasts to celebrate the sixth annual Collector Car Appreciation Day (CCAD). A wide range of official events was held in the United States, Canada and France to commemorate the day, designated by SEMA-requested U.S. Senate Resolution 196 (S. Res. 196), sponsored by Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT).

The U.S. Senate Resolution recognized “that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.” Lawmakers in states, counties and local areas all over the country and Canada followed the Senate’s lead.

The states of Louisiana and West Virginia—as well as the Canadian Provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan—adopted their own resolutions commemorating the day.

Intended to celebrate the classics of the past and the future, the official events (numbering more than 150) included car-club cruise-ins, open houses at SEMA-member companies, specialty shows at automobile museums and “drive your collector car to work” displays. Scores of other unofficial events included car shows, picnics and “holiday sales” in honor of the occasion.

A detailed summary and an online photo gallery of CCAD celebrations are available on the SEMA Action Network’s (SAN) website at www.SEMAsan.com/ccad.

CCAD is supported by SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization and Hot Rod Industry Alliance.

York Nostalgia held a Cruisin’ Into Summer Cruise-in during the 14th Annual Musclecar Madness at the York Reunion.	Energy Suspension of San Clemente, California, hosted an employee cruise-in.	Gary Brown (right) of Gary’s Classic Car Fridays in Buena Park, California, was recognized by SAN Director Colby Martin with a framedcopy of Senate Resolution 196 for his years of support.
Members of the SEMA staff drove their prized vehicles to work in Diamond Bar, California.	Smiley’s Custom Headers celebrated in Upland, California, with a cruise to the Sizzlin’ Restaurant on Route 66.	Employees at the SEMA Data Co-op in Lenexa, Kansas, drove their special cars to work in honor of the day.
Volkswagen Group of America in Auburn Hills, Michigan, hosted a diverse collection of vehicles during its cruise-in.	Steele Rubber Products of Denver, North Carolina, once again hosted a cruise-in and BBQ to celebrate the hobby’s special day.	Collector Car Appreciation Week was held by Walker Tire/Quick Nick’s Service Centers in Lincoln, Nebraska, to honor the occasion.
D&S Automotive of Mentor, Ohio, tied its festivities into its annual Cruise-In For Rainbow Babies.	From left to right, Goodguys President Marc Meadors, SEMA Council Director Jim Skelly, HRIA Chair-Elect John McLeod of Classic Instruments and Goodguys Founder and Chairman Gary Meadors saluted CCAD at the Goodguys 18th PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio.	The Filling Station held its fourth annual open house and cruise-in in Lebanon, Oregon, to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day.
Comp Cams marked CCAD with a Drive Your Cool Car to Work Day for employees in Memphis, Tennessee.	Daniels Performance Group of Smithfield, Virginia, held a CCAD cruise-in.	Hemmings Motor News held its annual National Collector Car Day Cruise-in at its headquarters in Bennington, Vermont.
Rinard Kissel (left), representing U.S. Representative Alex Mooney, presented U.S. Senate Resolution 196 to Rick Heavner (center) of West Virginia’s Knobley Mountain Car Club. West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell (right) presented Governor Earl Ray Tomblin’s proclamation designating July 10, 2015, as Collector Car Appreciation Day in the state.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.	Blacktop Depot of Orange, California, invited enthusiasts to create photo memories of their collector cars.
Fullerton, California’s Dr. Detail held a sale on July 10, 2015. SAN Director Colby Martin (right) presented owner Wayne Loomis with a framed copy of Senate Resolution 196.	The US Cars Club of Normandy, France, held a rally and vintage American cars expo to celebrate on July 4, 2015.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

SEMA News—October 2015

EVENTS
By Colby Martin

SEMA Pays Tribute to the Hobby

Members Nationwide Celebrate Sixth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day

	Chattanooga, Tennessee’s Coker Tire hosted a Collector Car Appreciation Day cruise-in and BBQ for employees and local enthusiasts.

On July 10, 2015, SEMA members joined with car clubs and thousands of enthusiasts to celebrate the sixth annual Collector Car Appreciation Day (CCAD). A wide range of official events was held in the United States, Canada and France to commemorate the day, designated by SEMA-requested U.S. Senate Resolution 196 (S. Res. 196), sponsored by Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT).

The U.S. Senate Resolution recognized “that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.” Lawmakers in states, counties and local areas all over the country and Canada followed the Senate’s lead.

The states of Louisiana and West Virginia—as well as the Canadian Provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan—adopted their own resolutions commemorating the day.

Intended to celebrate the classics of the past and the future, the official events (numbering more than 150) included car-club cruise-ins, open houses at SEMA-member companies, specialty shows at automobile museums and “drive your collector car to work” displays. Scores of other unofficial events included car shows, picnics and “holiday sales” in honor of the occasion.

A detailed summary and an online photo gallery of CCAD celebrations are available on the SEMA Action Network’s (SAN) website at www.SEMAsan.com/ccad.

CCAD is supported by SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization and Hot Rod Industry Alliance.

York Nostalgia held a Cruisin’ Into Summer Cruise-in during the 14th Annual Musclecar Madness at the York Reunion.	Energy Suspension of San Clemente, California, hosted an employee cruise-in.	Gary Brown (right) of Gary’s Classic Car Fridays in Buena Park, California, was recognized by SAN Director Colby Martin with a framedcopy of Senate Resolution 196 for his years of support.
Members of the SEMA staff drove their prized vehicles to work in Diamond Bar, California.	Smiley’s Custom Headers celebrated in Upland, California, with a cruise to the Sizzlin’ Restaurant on Route 66.	Employees at the SEMA Data Co-op in Lenexa, Kansas, drove their special cars to work in honor of the day.
Volkswagen Group of America in Auburn Hills, Michigan, hosted a diverse collection of vehicles during its cruise-in.	Steele Rubber Products of Denver, North Carolina, once again hosted a cruise-in and BBQ to celebrate the hobby’s special day.	Collector Car Appreciation Week was held by Walker Tire/Quick Nick’s Service Centers in Lincoln, Nebraska, to honor the occasion.
D&S Automotive of Mentor, Ohio, tied its festivities into its annual Cruise-In For Rainbow Babies.	From left to right, Goodguys President Marc Meadors, SEMA Council Director Jim Skelly, HRIA Chair-Elect John McLeod of Classic Instruments and Goodguys Founder and Chairman Gary Meadors saluted CCAD at the Goodguys 18th PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio.	The Filling Station held its fourth annual open house and cruise-in in Lebanon, Oregon, to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day.
Comp Cams marked CCAD with a Drive Your Cool Car to Work Day for employees in Memphis, Tennessee.	Daniels Performance Group of Smithfield, Virginia, held a CCAD cruise-in.	Hemmings Motor News held its annual National Collector Car Day Cruise-in at its headquarters in Bennington, Vermont.
Rinard Kissel (left), representing U.S. Representative Alex Mooney, presented U.S. Senate Resolution 196 to Rick Heavner (center) of West Virginia’s Knobley Mountain Car Club. West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell (right) presented Governor Earl Ray Tomblin’s proclamation designating July 10, 2015, as Collector Car Appreciation Day in the state.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.	Blacktop Depot of Orange, California, invited enthusiasts to create photo memories of their collector cars.
Fullerton, California’s Dr. Detail held a sale on July 10, 2015. SAN Director Colby Martin (right) presented owner Wayne Loomis with a framed copy of Senate Resolution 196.	The US Cars Club of Normandy, France, held a rally and vintage American cars expo to celebrate on July 4, 2015.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

SEMA News—October 2015

EVENTS
By Colby Martin

SEMA Pays Tribute to the Hobby

Members Nationwide Celebrate Sixth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day

	Chattanooga, Tennessee’s Coker Tire hosted a Collector Car Appreciation Day cruise-in and BBQ for employees and local enthusiasts.

On July 10, 2015, SEMA members joined with car clubs and thousands of enthusiasts to celebrate the sixth annual Collector Car Appreciation Day (CCAD). A wide range of official events was held in the United States, Canada and France to commemorate the day, designated by SEMA-requested U.S. Senate Resolution 196 (S. Res. 196), sponsored by Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT).

The U.S. Senate Resolution recognized “that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.” Lawmakers in states, counties and local areas all over the country and Canada followed the Senate’s lead.

The states of Louisiana and West Virginia—as well as the Canadian Provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan—adopted their own resolutions commemorating the day.

Intended to celebrate the classics of the past and the future, the official events (numbering more than 150) included car-club cruise-ins, open houses at SEMA-member companies, specialty shows at automobile museums and “drive your collector car to work” displays. Scores of other unofficial events included car shows, picnics and “holiday sales” in honor of the occasion.

A detailed summary and an online photo gallery of CCAD celebrations are available on the SEMA Action Network’s (SAN) website at www.SEMAsan.com/ccad.

CCAD is supported by SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization and Hot Rod Industry Alliance.

York Nostalgia held a Cruisin’ Into Summer Cruise-in during the 14th Annual Musclecar Madness at the York Reunion.	Energy Suspension of San Clemente, California, hosted an employee cruise-in.	Gary Brown (right) of Gary’s Classic Car Fridays in Buena Park, California, was recognized by SAN Director Colby Martin with a framedcopy of Senate Resolution 196 for his years of support.
Members of the SEMA staff drove their prized vehicles to work in Diamond Bar, California.	Smiley’s Custom Headers celebrated in Upland, California, with a cruise to the Sizzlin’ Restaurant on Route 66.	Employees at the SEMA Data Co-op in Lenexa, Kansas, drove their special cars to work in honor of the day.
Volkswagen Group of America in Auburn Hills, Michigan, hosted a diverse collection of vehicles during its cruise-in.	Steele Rubber Products of Denver, North Carolina, once again hosted a cruise-in and BBQ to celebrate the hobby’s special day.	Collector Car Appreciation Week was held by Walker Tire/Quick Nick’s Service Centers in Lincoln, Nebraska, to honor the occasion.
D&S Automotive of Mentor, Ohio, tied its festivities into its annual Cruise-In For Rainbow Babies.	From left to right, Goodguys President Marc Meadors, SEMA Council Director Jim Skelly, HRIA Chair-Elect John McLeod of Classic Instruments and Goodguys Founder and Chairman Gary Meadors saluted CCAD at the Goodguys 18th PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio.	The Filling Station held its fourth annual open house and cruise-in in Lebanon, Oregon, to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day.
Comp Cams marked CCAD with a Drive Your Cool Car to Work Day for employees in Memphis, Tennessee.	Daniels Performance Group of Smithfield, Virginia, held a CCAD cruise-in.	Hemmings Motor News held its annual National Collector Car Day Cruise-in at its headquarters in Bennington, Vermont.
Rinard Kissel (left), representing U.S. Representative Alex Mooney, presented U.S. Senate Resolution 196 to Rick Heavner (center) of West Virginia’s Knobley Mountain Car Club. West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell (right) presented Governor Earl Ray Tomblin’s proclamation designating July 10, 2015, as Collector Car Appreciation Day in the state.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.	Blacktop Depot of Orange, California, invited enthusiasts to create photo memories of their collector cars.
Fullerton, California’s Dr. Detail held a sale on July 10, 2015. SAN Director Colby Martin (right) presented owner Wayne Loomis with a framed copy of Senate Resolution 196.	The US Cars Club of Normandy, France, held a rally and vintage American cars expo to celebrate on July 4, 2015.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

SEMA News—October 2015

EVENTS
By Colby Martin

SEMA Pays Tribute to the Hobby

Members Nationwide Celebrate Sixth Annual Collector Car Appreciation Day

	Chattanooga, Tennessee’s Coker Tire hosted a Collector Car Appreciation Day cruise-in and BBQ for employees and local enthusiasts.

On July 10, 2015, SEMA members joined with car clubs and thousands of enthusiasts to celebrate the sixth annual Collector Car Appreciation Day (CCAD). A wide range of official events was held in the United States, Canada and France to commemorate the day, designated by SEMA-requested U.S. Senate Resolution 196 (S. Res. 196), sponsored by Sen. Richard Burr (R-NC) and Sen. Jon Tester (D-MT).

The U.S. Senate Resolution recognized “that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.” Lawmakers in states, counties and local areas all over the country and Canada followed the Senate’s lead.

The states of Louisiana and West Virginia—as well as the Canadian Provinces of British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan—adopted their own resolutions commemorating the day.

Intended to celebrate the classics of the past and the future, the official events (numbering more than 150) included car-club cruise-ins, open houses at SEMA-member companies, specialty shows at automobile museums and “drive your collector car to work” displays. Scores of other unofficial events included car shows, picnics and “holiday sales” in honor of the occasion.

A detailed summary and an online photo gallery of CCAD celebrations are available on the SEMA Action Network’s (SAN) website at www.SEMAsan.com/ccad.

CCAD is supported by SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization and Hot Rod Industry Alliance.

York Nostalgia held a Cruisin’ Into Summer Cruise-in during the 14th Annual Musclecar Madness at the York Reunion.	Energy Suspension of San Clemente, California, hosted an employee cruise-in.	Gary Brown (right) of Gary’s Classic Car Fridays in Buena Park, California, was recognized by SAN Director Colby Martin with a framedcopy of Senate Resolution 196 for his years of support.
Members of the SEMA staff drove their prized vehicles to work in Diamond Bar, California.	Smiley’s Custom Headers celebrated in Upland, California, with a cruise to the Sizzlin’ Restaurant on Route 66.	Employees at the SEMA Data Co-op in Lenexa, Kansas, drove their special cars to work in honor of the day.
Volkswagen Group of America in Auburn Hills, Michigan, hosted a diverse collection of vehicles during its cruise-in.	Steele Rubber Products of Denver, North Carolina, once again hosted a cruise-in and BBQ to celebrate the hobby’s special day.	Collector Car Appreciation Week was held by Walker Tire/Quick Nick’s Service Centers in Lincoln, Nebraska, to honor the occasion.
D&S Automotive of Mentor, Ohio, tied its festivities into its annual Cruise-In For Rainbow Babies.	From left to right, Goodguys President Marc Meadors, SEMA Council Director Jim Skelly, HRIA Chair-Elect John McLeod of Classic Instruments and Goodguys Founder and Chairman Gary Meadors saluted CCAD at the Goodguys 18th PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio.	The Filling Station held its fourth annual open house and cruise-in in Lebanon, Oregon, to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day.
Comp Cams marked CCAD with a Drive Your Cool Car to Work Day for employees in Memphis, Tennessee.	Daniels Performance Group of Smithfield, Virginia, held a CCAD cruise-in.	Hemmings Motor News held its annual National Collector Car Day Cruise-in at its headquarters in Bennington, Vermont.
Rinard Kissel (left), representing U.S. Representative Alex Mooney, presented U.S. Senate Resolution 196 to Rick Heavner (center) of West Virginia’s Knobley Mountain Car Club. West Virginia Delegate Gary Howell (right) presented Governor Earl Ray Tomblin’s proclamation designating July 10, 2015, as Collector Car Appreciation Day in the state.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.	Blacktop Depot of Orange, California, invited enthusiasts to create photo memories of their collector cars.
Fullerton, California’s Dr. Detail held a sale on July 10, 2015. SAN Director Colby Martin (right) presented owner Wayne Loomis with a framed copy of Senate Resolution 196.	The US Cars Club of Normandy, France, held a rally and vintage American cars expo to celebrate on July 4, 2015.	AACA’s Tom Cox drove his ’60 Cadillac to work to honor Collector Car Appreciation Day. He arranged for the U.S. Senate Resolution to be displayed at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

SEMA News—October 2015

INDUSTRY NEWS

Fast Facts

	Nicholas Conti

Mitchell 1 named Nicholas Conti, a student from Falconer, New York, the 2015 Automotive Technology Outstanding Student. Conti received a $2,500 scholarship, a check for $500 and round-trip airfare and accommodations to attend the North American Council of Automotive Teachers conference. Conti will attend Alfred State, a college of technology, in the automotive service technician program in order to one day own and operate his family’s business, Conti’s Service Center Inc. Mitchell 1, Poway, CA, 858-391-5000.

Jon Barrett

Kahn Media Inc. announced that public relations leader Jon Barrett has been named vice president of the company. Kahn Media President and SEMA Board of Directors member Dan Kahn called Barrett a “strategic leader.” Kahn Media also added longtime motorcycle racer, instructor and marketer Jason Thompson to the team as an account executive. Thompson will handle public relations and marketing for MotoAmerica, the official national road-racing series in the United States sanctioned by the American Motorcyclist Association/Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme. Creative Director Franco Gutierrez will continue to lead the company’s creative team. Kahn Media, Moorpark, CA, 818-881-5246.

Meyer Distributing Inc. announced the acquisition of the U.S. operations of 5 Seasons RV Distribution in Portland, Oregon. “With the recent consolidation activity in the RV parts-distribution business, it’s not surprising we have received an enormous amount of requests from both RV customers and suppliers to add additional product lines to this category, and quickly,” said Bruce Terwiske, director of purchasing for Meyer. Meyer Distributing, Jasper, IN, 800-639-3787.

	Daniel Clarke

Permatex, a manufacturer of chemicals for automotive maintenance and repair located in Hartford, Connecticut, named Daniel Clarke senior product manager. Clarke, who was a business unit manager at Coburn Technologies Inc., will be responsible for product management, new product development and research.

Television station KYNM in Albuquerque-Santa Fe, New Mexico, officially added Rev’n, a Luken Communications network, to its programming. Geared toward performance enthusiasts, Rev’n is dedicated to cars, trucks, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, snowmobiles, events, auctions and more. Viewers in the Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas can now find Rev’n content, such as “Two Guys Garage,” “Bidding Wars” and “My Classic Car” on channel 21.4. Luken Communications, Chattanooga, TN, 423-468-5102.

Samantha Young

Samantha Young has joined The Marx Group as the newest member of the agency’s creative team. In her new role, Young will assist The Marx Group in the areas of creative design for print and digital advertising, marketing collateral and social media campaigns. Most recently, Young was a graphic designer for Ogden Costa Creative Group, where she helped create website banners, emails and direct-mail materials. The Marx Group, San Rafael, CA, 415-453-0844.

RTM Productions, a television company specializing in automotive tech content, named Matthew Hawkins president, effective August 1. Hawkins joined RTM in 2006 as vice president of marketing and digital media and is currently serving as executive vice president. Current RTM President Joe St. Lawrence, who founded the company 26 years ago, will continue with the company as a senior advisor. RTM Productions, Franklin, TN, 615-503-9700.

Three America’s Car Museum cars will trek across the United States from December 27 to January 7. Called “The Drive Home,” the trip includes a ’57 Chevrolet Nomad, a ’61 Chrysler 300G two-door hardtop and a ’66 Mustang traveling from Tacoma, Washington, to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The journey will have stops along the way for enthusiast rallies. Proceeds will benefit the Hagerty Education Program, dedicated to preparing young adults for careers in automotive restoration via career-based training, scholarships, paid internships and apprenticeships. LeMay-America’s Car Museum, Tacoma, WA, 253-683-3972.

Tire Group International appointed Jeff DeVonde as its vice president of original equipment and fleet sales for its domestic division. DeVonde brings more than 24 years of experience in the transportation industry, selling and marketing truckload dry and refrigerated freight throughout the country. The Navy veteran previously worked as the director of sales for Alabama Motor Express.

Premier Performance Products relocated its Kentucky fulfillment center to a new location double the size of the previous site. The new 95,000-sq.-ft. warehouse will increase the company’s capacity to stock parts, expand the range of products offered and enable faster processing. Premier Performance Products, Rexburg, ID, 888-497-3666.

SEM Products, a manufacturer of interior paints and refinishing products, expanded its distribution by forming a strategic partnership with Vicar International. Vicar will be stocking three new lines—Color Coat, Classic Coat and Vinyl Coat—for indoor and outdoor applications, with plans to expand.

VP Racing Fuels introduced Parent Petroleum as its newest retail branding partner. Headquartered in St. Charles, Illinois, Parent owns and operates The Pride convenience stores in the greater Chicagoland area. VP Racing Fuels, Elmendorf, TX, 210-635-7744.

Hopkins Manufacturing Corp. announced the addition of David Moore as senior vice president of operations and L. Curtis Strong as vice president of product design and regulatory compliance. Both positions are based out of the Hopkins headquarters in Emporia, Kansas. Moore will lead and direct manufacturing, supply chain and distribution operations for all Hopkins locations. Strong will be responsible for all product design and regulatory-compliance matters for Hopkins. Hopkins Manufacturing Corp., Emporia, KS, 800-524-1458.

Design Engineering Inc. (DEI) announced that Bill Herrmann joined the company as vice president of operations. He will report directly to DEI CEO David Markley. Herrmann has more than 30 years’ experience in industrial and chemical distribution and chemical and food manufacturing. Prior to joining DEI, Herrmann worked at Palmer Holland, Sandridge Food Corp. and Lubrizol/Noveon, where he minimized asset risk, improved communications and brought new and innovative approaches to the companies’ warehouse and service networks. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH, 440-930-7940.

CRP Industries Inc., an automotive parts and industrial products provider, acquired Atlantic Automotive Enterprises (AAE)—a steering systems manufacturer. AAE will continue to operate independently out of its headquarters and manufacturing facility in Tabor City, North Carolina. John Treece, AAE’s owner and founder, will continue to lead AAE.

Hypertherm, a manufacturer of plasma, waterjet and laser cutting systems, acquired Jabez Technologies, which simplifies complex robotic programming. Hypertherm and Jabez believe combining Hypertherm’s cutting-edge expertise with Jabez’s skilled engineering and support staff will make it easier for robotic programmers and integrators to achieve optimal results. Hypertherm is not making major changes to Jabez’s operations, leadership or distribution. Chahe Bakmazjian, founder and president, will continue to lead his team. Hypertherm, Hanover, NH, 603-643-3441.

Kinderhook Industries acquired Bestop Inc. from Magna International Inc. in August. Bestop, headquartered in Louisville, Colorado, has been manufacturing soft tops and fabric accessories for Jeep vehicles for more than 60 years. John Larson is now the chief executive officer at Bestop.

The Aftermarket Foundation expanded its Awareness Partner Program, according to Executive Director Joel Ayres. To participate, an aftermarket company needs to designate a point person responsible for sharing foundation information with employees. Partner companies receive recognition on www.aftermarketfoundation.org. Contact Joel Ayres at joel@aftermarketfoundation.org. The foundation’s largest fundraiser is its Aftermarket Foundation Bob Schoeberl Charity Golf Tournament and Cocktail Reception, held in conjunction with the SEMA Show. This year’s event is November 1, at the Las Vegas Country Club. The golf tournament will be held at the country club on Monday, November 2. Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation, Sacramento, CA, 916-628-0271.