SEMA News—June 2015

Fast Facts

The Tulsa Technology Center team from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, sponsored by Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), competed in the 2015 Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge Goodguys 5th Spring Lone Star Nationals, March 20–22, at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth. One of four teams from Tulsa Technology Center, the DEI team qualified for the Dual National Championship playoff with a time of 32:16. The championship will be decided in competitions at the 2015 SEMA Show in Las Vegas and the PRI Show in Indianapolis. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH; 440-930-7940.

VIPAR Heavy Duty launched VIProParts.com—an online marketplace for buyers to purchase heavy-duty truck parts. The website allows users to easily locate aftermarket products from the industry’s leading brands. VIPAR Heavy Duty facilitates the marketplace utilizing its e-commerce solutions. Visitors to the site are prompted to select a local participating distributor to fulfill their orders. Specific catalog information for that distributor is displayed to end users along with location and technical support contact information. The order, payment and delivery are then fulfilled through that local distributor with multiple shipping and delivery options. VIPAR, Crystal Lake, IL; 815-788-1725.

Power Automedia and JEGS announced a new marketing partnership to provide a collaborative marketing approach to further connect both companies with the world’s racing and performance enthusiasts. JEGS will expand its digital presence through seven Power Automedia online magazines: ChevyHardcore.com, CorvetteOnline.com, DragZine.com, EngineLabs.com, RodAuthority.com, StangTV.com and StreetLegalTV.com. In turn, Power Automedia will showcase its DragZine.com NMCA Street Outlaw project car, Blown Z, on the cover of an upcoming JEGS catalog. Power Automedia, Murrieta, CA; 951-677-2626.

Day at the Hay—a brand-new, one-day-only event—was added to the 2015 schedule of the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. Goodguys-Speedway Motors Day at the Hay will take place Saturday, June 27, at Pinnacle Bank Arena festival grounds at the Haymarket district in Lincoln, Nebraska. The event will feature an outdoor show-and-shine with awards for all years, makes and models of American-made and American-powered cars and trucks. Vendor exhibits, the Goodguys AutoCross and live music will be featured. Goodguys Enterprises Inc., Pleasanton, CA; 925-838-9876.

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. announced that Toyo Tires is the official tire of the Boston Red Sox baseball club. The multi-year agreement includes Toyo Tires signage in Fenway Park. The company will also promote the official tire designation through marketing efforts, including in dealerships and advertising in the New England area. Toyo Tire USA Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

Betts Co. appointed Bill Betts to a newly created position of president and chief operating officer. Mike Betts, formerly president of Betts Co., will actively continue in the business as chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer. Betts Co. has been owned and led by members of the Betts family without interruption throughout its 147-year history. Bill Betts joined Betts Co. in June 2007 after a successful two-year stint with Protiviti Inc. In his new role, he will have primary responsibility for Betts Co.’s three business units and development of its overall strategic direction.

Brenton Productions named Andrea Nicholson account manager. Nicholson’s role focuses on expanding the company’s customer base and increasing marketing exposure for existing clients. “Ms. Nicholson brings a broad range of experience stretching over 13 years in media sales, production and distribution elements of the business, including management of advertising sales for MyClassicGarage.com and NASCAR Productions, overseeing sales efforts of competition and lifestyle content for network and digital-use clients,” said Brenton Managing Partner Jim Cozzie. Nicholson is an active member of the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network. Brenton Productions, Mooresville, NC; 800-572-7798.

Denise Rondini, a writer and consultant in the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry, joined Marx Group Advisors as a vice president and member of the advisory board. In addition to her new role, Rondini will continue as president of Rondini Communications, a company specializing in researching and writing about the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry. Rondini has covered the trucking industry since 1982 and is a former editor of Successful Dealer and Truck Parts & Service magazines.

Auto Meter Products Inc. acquired Palmer Performance Engineering Inc. and entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Brian Palmer and the DashLogic development team. With this acquisition, Auto Meter will add the DashCommand app to its instrumentation product line. The app can turn any iOS or Android smartphone or tablet into a fully customized dashboard and diagnostic tool. Auto Meter also acquired the ScanXL and ScanXL Pro diagnostic scan tools, which will be added to its test-equipment product range. Finally, Auto Meter added the DashLogic display controller to its instrumentation business and technology portfolio. Auto Meter, Sycamore, IL; 866-248-6356.

Centric Parts and AP Exhaust Technologies announced a joint board agreement to allow AP Executive Chairman Vange Proimos to join the Centric Parts board of directors and Centric President and CEO Dan Lelchuk to join the board of AP. Proimos and Lelchuk have vast experience in the aftermarket hard-parts industry and believe that the joint board appointments will bolster the position of both companies in the marketplace and promote opportunities to collaborate to better serve customers. AP Exhaust Technologies, Goldsboro, NC; 919-580-2000.

International automotive supplier Continental announced the retirement of Jerry Gabbard as vice president and general manager of the Commercial Vehicles and Aftermarket (CVAM) business unit within the company’s interior division—a position he has held since December 2007. James Bayley succeeds Gabbard. In this role, Bayley will be responsible for the organization’s strategic development and overall executive management for its commercial vehicles, specialty vehicles, aftermarket, transportation technologies and original-equipment services business segments. Bayley will also oversee the design engineering, customer support and focus factory resources at Continental’s manufacturing facility in Guadalajara, Mexico. Continental Tire The Americas, Fort Mill, SC; 704-583-3900.

TI Automotive added Michael Grimes to its aftermarket team as sales manager. Grimes reports directly to Doug Thomson, director, North American aftermarket. Grimes is responsible for raising the visibility of TI Automotive in the high-performance aftermarket segment. Grimes joins TI Automotive from Cleveland-based Accel Performance Group, where he was director of retail sales. TI Automotive, Caro, MI; 989-672-8260.

Ryan Levesque, the first apprenticeship recipient for the Hagerty Education Program (HEP) at America’s Car Museum, completed his first six months of training with Precision Motor Cars. HEP awards scholarships and grants to prepare young adults for careers in automotive restoration and preservation. Levesque’s apprenticeship is part of a program that has awarded more than $2.75 million since 2005 for automobile and antique boat restoration education and training. Levesque apprenticed with Keith Flickinger, owner and master craftsman for Precision Motor Cars (a HEP partner), to get more hours under the hood while honing his craft, restoring vehicles from the early 1900s through the 1970s. Hagerty Insurance, Traverse City, MI; 800-922-4050.

SEMA News—June 2015

Fast Facts

The Tulsa Technology Center team from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, sponsored by Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), competed in the 2015 Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge Goodguys 5th Spring Lone Star Nationals, March 20–22, at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth. One of four teams from Tulsa Technology Center, the DEI team qualified for the Dual National Championship playoff with a time of 32:16. The championship will be decided in competitions at the 2015 SEMA Show in Las Vegas and the PRI Show in Indianapolis. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH; 440-930-7940.

VIPAR Heavy Duty launched VIProParts.com—an online marketplace for buyers to purchase heavy-duty truck parts. The website allows users to easily locate aftermarket products from the industry’s leading brands. VIPAR Heavy Duty facilitates the marketplace utilizing its e-commerce solutions. Visitors to the site are prompted to select a local participating distributor to fulfill their orders. Specific catalog information for that distributor is displayed to end users along with location and technical support contact information. The order, payment and delivery are then fulfilled through that local distributor with multiple shipping and delivery options. VIPAR, Crystal Lake, IL; 815-788-1725.

Power Automedia and JEGS announced a new marketing partnership to provide a collaborative marketing approach to further connect both companies with the world’s racing and performance enthusiasts. JEGS will expand its digital presence through seven Power Automedia online magazines: ChevyHardcore.com, CorvetteOnline.com, DragZine.com, EngineLabs.com, RodAuthority.com, StangTV.com and StreetLegalTV.com. In turn, Power Automedia will showcase its DragZine.com NMCA Street Outlaw project car, Blown Z, on the cover of an upcoming JEGS catalog. Power Automedia, Murrieta, CA; 951-677-2626.

Day at the Hay—a brand-new, one-day-only event—was added to the 2015 schedule of the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. Goodguys-Speedway Motors Day at the Hay will take place Saturday, June 27, at Pinnacle Bank Arena festival grounds at the Haymarket district in Lincoln, Nebraska. The event will feature an outdoor show-and-shine with awards for all years, makes and models of American-made and American-powered cars and trucks. Vendor exhibits, the Goodguys AutoCross and live music will be featured. Goodguys Enterprises Inc., Pleasanton, CA; 925-838-9876.

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. announced that Toyo Tires is the official tire of the Boston Red Sox baseball club. The multi-year agreement includes Toyo Tires signage in Fenway Park. The company will also promote the official tire designation through marketing efforts, including in dealerships and advertising in the New England area. Toyo Tire USA Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

Betts Co. appointed Bill Betts to a newly created position of president and chief operating officer. Mike Betts, formerly president of Betts Co., will actively continue in the business as chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer. Betts Co. has been owned and led by members of the Betts family without interruption throughout its 147-year history. Bill Betts joined Betts Co. in June 2007 after a successful two-year stint with Protiviti Inc. In his new role, he will have primary responsibility for Betts Co.’s three business units and development of its overall strategic direction.

Brenton Productions named Andrea Nicholson account manager. Nicholson’s role focuses on expanding the company’s customer base and increasing marketing exposure for existing clients. “Ms. Nicholson brings a broad range of experience stretching over 13 years in media sales, production and distribution elements of the business, including management of advertising sales for MyClassicGarage.com and NASCAR Productions, overseeing sales efforts of competition and lifestyle content for network and digital-use clients,” said Brenton Managing Partner Jim Cozzie. Nicholson is an active member of the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network. Brenton Productions, Mooresville, NC; 800-572-7798.

Denise Rondini, a writer and consultant in the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry, joined Marx Group Advisors as a vice president and member of the advisory board. In addition to her new role, Rondini will continue as president of Rondini Communications, a company specializing in researching and writing about the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry. Rondini has covered the trucking industry since 1982 and is a former editor of Successful Dealer and Truck Parts & Service magazines.

Auto Meter Products Inc. acquired Palmer Performance Engineering Inc. and entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Brian Palmer and the DashLogic development team. With this acquisition, Auto Meter will add the DashCommand app to its instrumentation product line. The app can turn any iOS or Android smartphone or tablet into a fully customized dashboard and diagnostic tool. Auto Meter also acquired the ScanXL and ScanXL Pro diagnostic scan tools, which will be added to its test-equipment product range. Finally, Auto Meter added the DashLogic display controller to its instrumentation business and technology portfolio. Auto Meter, Sycamore, IL; 866-248-6356.

Centric Parts and AP Exhaust Technologies announced a joint board agreement to allow AP Executive Chairman Vange Proimos to join the Centric Parts board of directors and Centric President and CEO Dan Lelchuk to join the board of AP. Proimos and Lelchuk have vast experience in the aftermarket hard-parts industry and believe that the joint board appointments will bolster the position of both companies in the marketplace and promote opportunities to collaborate to better serve customers. AP Exhaust Technologies, Goldsboro, NC; 919-580-2000.

International automotive supplier Continental announced the retirement of Jerry Gabbard as vice president and general manager of the Commercial Vehicles and Aftermarket (CVAM) business unit within the company’s interior division—a position he has held since December 2007. James Bayley succeeds Gabbard. In this role, Bayley will be responsible for the organization’s strategic development and overall executive management for its commercial vehicles, specialty vehicles, aftermarket, transportation technologies and original-equipment services business segments. Bayley will also oversee the design engineering, customer support and focus factory resources at Continental’s manufacturing facility in Guadalajara, Mexico. Continental Tire The Americas, Fort Mill, SC; 704-583-3900.

TI Automotive added Michael Grimes to its aftermarket team as sales manager. Grimes reports directly to Doug Thomson, director, North American aftermarket. Grimes is responsible for raising the visibility of TI Automotive in the high-performance aftermarket segment. Grimes joins TI Automotive from Cleveland-based Accel Performance Group, where he was director of retail sales. TI Automotive, Caro, MI; 989-672-8260.

Ryan Levesque, the first apprenticeship recipient for the Hagerty Education Program (HEP) at America’s Car Museum, completed his first six months of training with Precision Motor Cars. HEP awards scholarships and grants to prepare young adults for careers in automotive restoration and preservation. Levesque’s apprenticeship is part of a program that has awarded more than $2.75 million since 2005 for automobile and antique boat restoration education and training. Levesque apprenticed with Keith Flickinger, owner and master craftsman for Precision Motor Cars (a HEP partner), to get more hours under the hood while honing his craft, restoring vehicles from the early 1900s through the 1970s. Hagerty Insurance, Traverse City, MI; 800-922-4050.

SEMA News—June 2015

Fast Facts

The Tulsa Technology Center team from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, sponsored by Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), competed in the 2015 Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge Goodguys 5th Spring Lone Star Nationals, March 20–22, at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth. One of four teams from Tulsa Technology Center, the DEI team qualified for the Dual National Championship playoff with a time of 32:16. The championship will be decided in competitions at the 2015 SEMA Show in Las Vegas and the PRI Show in Indianapolis. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH; 440-930-7940.

VIPAR Heavy Duty launched VIProParts.com—an online marketplace for buyers to purchase heavy-duty truck parts. The website allows users to easily locate aftermarket products from the industry’s leading brands. VIPAR Heavy Duty facilitates the marketplace utilizing its e-commerce solutions. Visitors to the site are prompted to select a local participating distributor to fulfill their orders. Specific catalog information for that distributor is displayed to end users along with location and technical support contact information. The order, payment and delivery are then fulfilled through that local distributor with multiple shipping and delivery options. VIPAR, Crystal Lake, IL; 815-788-1725.

Power Automedia and JEGS announced a new marketing partnership to provide a collaborative marketing approach to further connect both companies with the world’s racing and performance enthusiasts. JEGS will expand its digital presence through seven Power Automedia online magazines: ChevyHardcore.com, CorvetteOnline.com, DragZine.com, EngineLabs.com, RodAuthority.com, StangTV.com and StreetLegalTV.com. In turn, Power Automedia will showcase its DragZine.com NMCA Street Outlaw project car, Blown Z, on the cover of an upcoming JEGS catalog. Power Automedia, Murrieta, CA; 951-677-2626.

Day at the Hay—a brand-new, one-day-only event—was added to the 2015 schedule of the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. Goodguys-Speedway Motors Day at the Hay will take place Saturday, June 27, at Pinnacle Bank Arena festival grounds at the Haymarket district in Lincoln, Nebraska. The event will feature an outdoor show-and-shine with awards for all years, makes and models of American-made and American-powered cars and trucks. Vendor exhibits, the Goodguys AutoCross and live music will be featured. Goodguys Enterprises Inc., Pleasanton, CA; 925-838-9876.

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. announced that Toyo Tires is the official tire of the Boston Red Sox baseball club. The multi-year agreement includes Toyo Tires signage in Fenway Park. The company will also promote the official tire designation through marketing efforts, including in dealerships and advertising in the New England area. Toyo Tire USA Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

Betts Co. appointed Bill Betts to a newly created position of president and chief operating officer. Mike Betts, formerly president of Betts Co., will actively continue in the business as chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer. Betts Co. has been owned and led by members of the Betts family without interruption throughout its 147-year history. Bill Betts joined Betts Co. in June 2007 after a successful two-year stint with Protiviti Inc. In his new role, he will have primary responsibility for Betts Co.’s three business units and development of its overall strategic direction.

Brenton Productions named Andrea Nicholson account manager. Nicholson’s role focuses on expanding the company’s customer base and increasing marketing exposure for existing clients. “Ms. Nicholson brings a broad range of experience stretching over 13 years in media sales, production and distribution elements of the business, including management of advertising sales for MyClassicGarage.com and NASCAR Productions, overseeing sales efforts of competition and lifestyle content for network and digital-use clients,” said Brenton Managing Partner Jim Cozzie. Nicholson is an active member of the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network. Brenton Productions, Mooresville, NC; 800-572-7798.

Denise Rondini, a writer and consultant in the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry, joined Marx Group Advisors as a vice president and member of the advisory board. In addition to her new role, Rondini will continue as president of Rondini Communications, a company specializing in researching and writing about the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry. Rondini has covered the trucking industry since 1982 and is a former editor of Successful Dealer and Truck Parts & Service magazines.

Auto Meter Products Inc. acquired Palmer Performance Engineering Inc. and entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Brian Palmer and the DashLogic development team. With this acquisition, Auto Meter will add the DashCommand app to its instrumentation product line. The app can turn any iOS or Android smartphone or tablet into a fully customized dashboard and diagnostic tool. Auto Meter also acquired the ScanXL and ScanXL Pro diagnostic scan tools, which will be added to its test-equipment product range. Finally, Auto Meter added the DashLogic display controller to its instrumentation business and technology portfolio. Auto Meter, Sycamore, IL; 866-248-6356.

Centric Parts and AP Exhaust Technologies announced a joint board agreement to allow AP Executive Chairman Vange Proimos to join the Centric Parts board of directors and Centric President and CEO Dan Lelchuk to join the board of AP. Proimos and Lelchuk have vast experience in the aftermarket hard-parts industry and believe that the joint board appointments will bolster the position of both companies in the marketplace and promote opportunities to collaborate to better serve customers. AP Exhaust Technologies, Goldsboro, NC; 919-580-2000.

International automotive supplier Continental announced the retirement of Jerry Gabbard as vice president and general manager of the Commercial Vehicles and Aftermarket (CVAM) business unit within the company’s interior division—a position he has held since December 2007. James Bayley succeeds Gabbard. In this role, Bayley will be responsible for the organization’s strategic development and overall executive management for its commercial vehicles, specialty vehicles, aftermarket, transportation technologies and original-equipment services business segments. Bayley will also oversee the design engineering, customer support and focus factory resources at Continental’s manufacturing facility in Guadalajara, Mexico. Continental Tire The Americas, Fort Mill, SC; 704-583-3900.

TI Automotive added Michael Grimes to its aftermarket team as sales manager. Grimes reports directly to Doug Thomson, director, North American aftermarket. Grimes is responsible for raising the visibility of TI Automotive in the high-performance aftermarket segment. Grimes joins TI Automotive from Cleveland-based Accel Performance Group, where he was director of retail sales. TI Automotive, Caro, MI; 989-672-8260.

Ryan Levesque, the first apprenticeship recipient for the Hagerty Education Program (HEP) at America’s Car Museum, completed his first six months of training with Precision Motor Cars. HEP awards scholarships and grants to prepare young adults for careers in automotive restoration and preservation. Levesque’s apprenticeship is part of a program that has awarded more than $2.75 million since 2005 for automobile and antique boat restoration education and training. Levesque apprenticed with Keith Flickinger, owner and master craftsman for Precision Motor Cars (a HEP partner), to get more hours under the hood while honing his craft, restoring vehicles from the early 1900s through the 1970s. Hagerty Insurance, Traverse City, MI; 800-922-4050.

SEMA News—June 2015

Fast Facts

The Tulsa Technology Center team from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, sponsored by Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), competed in the 2015 Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge Goodguys 5th Spring Lone Star Nationals, March 20–22, at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth. One of four teams from Tulsa Technology Center, the DEI team qualified for the Dual National Championship playoff with a time of 32:16. The championship will be decided in competitions at the 2015 SEMA Show in Las Vegas and the PRI Show in Indianapolis. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH; 440-930-7940.

VIPAR Heavy Duty launched VIProParts.com—an online marketplace for buyers to purchase heavy-duty truck parts. The website allows users to easily locate aftermarket products from the industry’s leading brands. VIPAR Heavy Duty facilitates the marketplace utilizing its e-commerce solutions. Visitors to the site are prompted to select a local participating distributor to fulfill their orders. Specific catalog information for that distributor is displayed to end users along with location and technical support contact information. The order, payment and delivery are then fulfilled through that local distributor with multiple shipping and delivery options. VIPAR, Crystal Lake, IL; 815-788-1725.

Power Automedia and JEGS announced a new marketing partnership to provide a collaborative marketing approach to further connect both companies with the world’s racing and performance enthusiasts. JEGS will expand its digital presence through seven Power Automedia online magazines: ChevyHardcore.com, CorvetteOnline.com, DragZine.com, EngineLabs.com, RodAuthority.com, StangTV.com and StreetLegalTV.com. In turn, Power Automedia will showcase its DragZine.com NMCA Street Outlaw project car, Blown Z, on the cover of an upcoming JEGS catalog. Power Automedia, Murrieta, CA; 951-677-2626.

Day at the Hay—a brand-new, one-day-only event—was added to the 2015 schedule of the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. Goodguys-Speedway Motors Day at the Hay will take place Saturday, June 27, at Pinnacle Bank Arena festival grounds at the Haymarket district in Lincoln, Nebraska. The event will feature an outdoor show-and-shine with awards for all years, makes and models of American-made and American-powered cars and trucks. Vendor exhibits, the Goodguys AutoCross and live music will be featured. Goodguys Enterprises Inc., Pleasanton, CA; 925-838-9876.

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. announced that Toyo Tires is the official tire of the Boston Red Sox baseball club. The multi-year agreement includes Toyo Tires signage in Fenway Park. The company will also promote the official tire designation through marketing efforts, including in dealerships and advertising in the New England area. Toyo Tire USA Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

Betts Co. appointed Bill Betts to a newly created position of president and chief operating officer. Mike Betts, formerly president of Betts Co., will actively continue in the business as chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer. Betts Co. has been owned and led by members of the Betts family without interruption throughout its 147-year history. Bill Betts joined Betts Co. in June 2007 after a successful two-year stint with Protiviti Inc. In his new role, he will have primary responsibility for Betts Co.’s three business units and development of its overall strategic direction.

Brenton Productions named Andrea Nicholson account manager. Nicholson’s role focuses on expanding the company’s customer base and increasing marketing exposure for existing clients. “Ms. Nicholson brings a broad range of experience stretching over 13 years in media sales, production and distribution elements of the business, including management of advertising sales for MyClassicGarage.com and NASCAR Productions, overseeing sales efforts of competition and lifestyle content for network and digital-use clients,” said Brenton Managing Partner Jim Cozzie. Nicholson is an active member of the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network. Brenton Productions, Mooresville, NC; 800-572-7798.

Denise Rondini, a writer and consultant in the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry, joined Marx Group Advisors as a vice president and member of the advisory board. In addition to her new role, Rondini will continue as president of Rondini Communications, a company specializing in researching and writing about the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry. Rondini has covered the trucking industry since 1982 and is a former editor of Successful Dealer and Truck Parts & Service magazines.

Auto Meter Products Inc. acquired Palmer Performance Engineering Inc. and entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Brian Palmer and the DashLogic development team. With this acquisition, Auto Meter will add the DashCommand app to its instrumentation product line. The app can turn any iOS or Android smartphone or tablet into a fully customized dashboard and diagnostic tool. Auto Meter also acquired the ScanXL and ScanXL Pro diagnostic scan tools, which will be added to its test-equipment product range. Finally, Auto Meter added the DashLogic display controller to its instrumentation business and technology portfolio. Auto Meter, Sycamore, IL; 866-248-6356.

Centric Parts and AP Exhaust Technologies announced a joint board agreement to allow AP Executive Chairman Vange Proimos to join the Centric Parts board of directors and Centric President and CEO Dan Lelchuk to join the board of AP. Proimos and Lelchuk have vast experience in the aftermarket hard-parts industry and believe that the joint board appointments will bolster the position of both companies in the marketplace and promote opportunities to collaborate to better serve customers. AP Exhaust Technologies, Goldsboro, NC; 919-580-2000.

International automotive supplier Continental announced the retirement of Jerry Gabbard as vice president and general manager of the Commercial Vehicles and Aftermarket (CVAM) business unit within the company’s interior division—a position he has held since December 2007. James Bayley succeeds Gabbard. In this role, Bayley will be responsible for the organization’s strategic development and overall executive management for its commercial vehicles, specialty vehicles, aftermarket, transportation technologies and original-equipment services business segments. Bayley will also oversee the design engineering, customer support and focus factory resources at Continental’s manufacturing facility in Guadalajara, Mexico. Continental Tire The Americas, Fort Mill, SC; 704-583-3900.

TI Automotive added Michael Grimes to its aftermarket team as sales manager. Grimes reports directly to Doug Thomson, director, North American aftermarket. Grimes is responsible for raising the visibility of TI Automotive in the high-performance aftermarket segment. Grimes joins TI Automotive from Cleveland-based Accel Performance Group, where he was director of retail sales. TI Automotive, Caro, MI; 989-672-8260.

Ryan Levesque, the first apprenticeship recipient for the Hagerty Education Program (HEP) at America’s Car Museum, completed his first six months of training with Precision Motor Cars. HEP awards scholarships and grants to prepare young adults for careers in automotive restoration and preservation. Levesque’s apprenticeship is part of a program that has awarded more than $2.75 million since 2005 for automobile and antique boat restoration education and training. Levesque apprenticed with Keith Flickinger, owner and master craftsman for Precision Motor Cars (a HEP partner), to get more hours under the hood while honing his craft, restoring vehicles from the early 1900s through the 1970s. Hagerty Insurance, Traverse City, MI; 800-922-4050.

SEMA News—June 2015

Fast Facts

The Tulsa Technology Center team from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, sponsored by Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), competed in the 2015 Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge Goodguys 5th Spring Lone Star Nationals, March 20–22, at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth. One of four teams from Tulsa Technology Center, the DEI team qualified for the Dual National Championship playoff with a time of 32:16. The championship will be decided in competitions at the 2015 SEMA Show in Las Vegas and the PRI Show in Indianapolis. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH; 440-930-7940.

VIPAR Heavy Duty launched VIProParts.com—an online marketplace for buyers to purchase heavy-duty truck parts. The website allows users to easily locate aftermarket products from the industry’s leading brands. VIPAR Heavy Duty facilitates the marketplace utilizing its e-commerce solutions. Visitors to the site are prompted to select a local participating distributor to fulfill their orders. Specific catalog information for that distributor is displayed to end users along with location and technical support contact information. The order, payment and delivery are then fulfilled through that local distributor with multiple shipping and delivery options. VIPAR, Crystal Lake, IL; 815-788-1725.

Power Automedia and JEGS announced a new marketing partnership to provide a collaborative marketing approach to further connect both companies with the world’s racing and performance enthusiasts. JEGS will expand its digital presence through seven Power Automedia online magazines: ChevyHardcore.com, CorvetteOnline.com, DragZine.com, EngineLabs.com, RodAuthority.com, StangTV.com and StreetLegalTV.com. In turn, Power Automedia will showcase its DragZine.com NMCA Street Outlaw project car, Blown Z, on the cover of an upcoming JEGS catalog. Power Automedia, Murrieta, CA; 951-677-2626.

Day at the Hay—a brand-new, one-day-only event—was added to the 2015 schedule of the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. Goodguys-Speedway Motors Day at the Hay will take place Saturday, June 27, at Pinnacle Bank Arena festival grounds at the Haymarket district in Lincoln, Nebraska. The event will feature an outdoor show-and-shine with awards for all years, makes and models of American-made and American-powered cars and trucks. Vendor exhibits, the Goodguys AutoCross and live music will be featured. Goodguys Enterprises Inc., Pleasanton, CA; 925-838-9876.

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. announced that Toyo Tires is the official tire of the Boston Red Sox baseball club. The multi-year agreement includes Toyo Tires signage in Fenway Park. The company will also promote the official tire designation through marketing efforts, including in dealerships and advertising in the New England area. Toyo Tire USA Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

Betts Co. appointed Bill Betts to a newly created position of president and chief operating officer. Mike Betts, formerly president of Betts Co., will actively continue in the business as chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer. Betts Co. has been owned and led by members of the Betts family without interruption throughout its 147-year history. Bill Betts joined Betts Co. in June 2007 after a successful two-year stint with Protiviti Inc. In his new role, he will have primary responsibility for Betts Co.’s three business units and development of its overall strategic direction.

Brenton Productions named Andrea Nicholson account manager. Nicholson’s role focuses on expanding the company’s customer base and increasing marketing exposure for existing clients. “Ms. Nicholson brings a broad range of experience stretching over 13 years in media sales, production and distribution elements of the business, including management of advertising sales for MyClassicGarage.com and NASCAR Productions, overseeing sales efforts of competition and lifestyle content for network and digital-use clients,” said Brenton Managing Partner Jim Cozzie. Nicholson is an active member of the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network. Brenton Productions, Mooresville, NC; 800-572-7798.

Denise Rondini, a writer and consultant in the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry, joined Marx Group Advisors as a vice president and member of the advisory board. In addition to her new role, Rondini will continue as president of Rondini Communications, a company specializing in researching and writing about the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry. Rondini has covered the trucking industry since 1982 and is a former editor of Successful Dealer and Truck Parts & Service magazines.

Auto Meter Products Inc. acquired Palmer Performance Engineering Inc. and entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Brian Palmer and the DashLogic development team. With this acquisition, Auto Meter will add the DashCommand app to its instrumentation product line. The app can turn any iOS or Android smartphone or tablet into a fully customized dashboard and diagnostic tool. Auto Meter also acquired the ScanXL and ScanXL Pro diagnostic scan tools, which will be added to its test-equipment product range. Finally, Auto Meter added the DashLogic display controller to its instrumentation business and technology portfolio. Auto Meter, Sycamore, IL; 866-248-6356.

Centric Parts and AP Exhaust Technologies announced a joint board agreement to allow AP Executive Chairman Vange Proimos to join the Centric Parts board of directors and Centric President and CEO Dan Lelchuk to join the board of AP. Proimos and Lelchuk have vast experience in the aftermarket hard-parts industry and believe that the joint board appointments will bolster the position of both companies in the marketplace and promote opportunities to collaborate to better serve customers. AP Exhaust Technologies, Goldsboro, NC; 919-580-2000.

International automotive supplier Continental announced the retirement of Jerry Gabbard as vice president and general manager of the Commercial Vehicles and Aftermarket (CVAM) business unit within the company’s interior division—a position he has held since December 2007. James Bayley succeeds Gabbard. In this role, Bayley will be responsible for the organization’s strategic development and overall executive management for its commercial vehicles, specialty vehicles, aftermarket, transportation technologies and original-equipment services business segments. Bayley will also oversee the design engineering, customer support and focus factory resources at Continental’s manufacturing facility in Guadalajara, Mexico. Continental Tire The Americas, Fort Mill, SC; 704-583-3900.

TI Automotive added Michael Grimes to its aftermarket team as sales manager. Grimes reports directly to Doug Thomson, director, North American aftermarket. Grimes is responsible for raising the visibility of TI Automotive in the high-performance aftermarket segment. Grimes joins TI Automotive from Cleveland-based Accel Performance Group, where he was director of retail sales. TI Automotive, Caro, MI; 989-672-8260.

Ryan Levesque, the first apprenticeship recipient for the Hagerty Education Program (HEP) at America’s Car Museum, completed his first six months of training with Precision Motor Cars. HEP awards scholarships and grants to prepare young adults for careers in automotive restoration and preservation. Levesque’s apprenticeship is part of a program that has awarded more than $2.75 million since 2005 for automobile and antique boat restoration education and training. Levesque apprenticed with Keith Flickinger, owner and master craftsman for Precision Motor Cars (a HEP partner), to get more hours under the hood while honing his craft, restoring vehicles from the early 1900s through the 1970s. Hagerty Insurance, Traverse City, MI; 800-922-4050.

SEMA News—June 2015

Fast Facts

The Tulsa Technology Center team from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, sponsored by Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), competed in the 2015 Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge Goodguys 5th Spring Lone Star Nationals, March 20–22, at the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth. One of four teams from Tulsa Technology Center, the DEI team qualified for the Dual National Championship playoff with a time of 32:16. The championship will be decided in competitions at the 2015 SEMA Show in Las Vegas and the PRI Show in Indianapolis. Design Engineering Inc., Avon Lake, OH; 440-930-7940.

VIPAR Heavy Duty launched VIProParts.com—an online marketplace for buyers to purchase heavy-duty truck parts. The website allows users to easily locate aftermarket products from the industry’s leading brands. VIPAR Heavy Duty facilitates the marketplace utilizing its e-commerce solutions. Visitors to the site are prompted to select a local participating distributor to fulfill their orders. Specific catalog information for that distributor is displayed to end users along with location and technical support contact information. The order, payment and delivery are then fulfilled through that local distributor with multiple shipping and delivery options. VIPAR, Crystal Lake, IL; 815-788-1725.

Power Automedia and JEGS announced a new marketing partnership to provide a collaborative marketing approach to further connect both companies with the world’s racing and performance enthusiasts. JEGS will expand its digital presence through seven Power Automedia online magazines: ChevyHardcore.com, CorvetteOnline.com, DragZine.com, EngineLabs.com, RodAuthority.com, StangTV.com and StreetLegalTV.com. In turn, Power Automedia will showcase its DragZine.com NMCA Street Outlaw project car, Blown Z, on the cover of an upcoming JEGS catalog. Power Automedia, Murrieta, CA; 951-677-2626.

Day at the Hay—a brand-new, one-day-only event—was added to the 2015 schedule of the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. Goodguys-Speedway Motors Day at the Hay will take place Saturday, June 27, at Pinnacle Bank Arena festival grounds at the Haymarket district in Lincoln, Nebraska. The event will feature an outdoor show-and-shine with awards for all years, makes and models of American-made and American-powered cars and trucks. Vendor exhibits, the Goodguys AutoCross and live music will be featured. Goodguys Enterprises Inc., Pleasanton, CA; 925-838-9876.

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. announced that Toyo Tires is the official tire of the Boston Red Sox baseball club. The multi-year agreement includes Toyo Tires signage in Fenway Park. The company will also promote the official tire designation through marketing efforts, including in dealerships and advertising in the New England area. Toyo Tire USA Corp., Cypress, CA; 714-236-2080.

Betts Co. appointed Bill Betts to a newly created position of president and chief operating officer. Mike Betts, formerly president of Betts Co., will actively continue in the business as chairman of the board of directors and chief executive officer. Betts Co. has been owned and led by members of the Betts family without interruption throughout its 147-year history. Bill Betts joined Betts Co. in June 2007 after a successful two-year stint with Protiviti Inc. In his new role, he will have primary responsibility for Betts Co.’s three business units and development of its overall strategic direction.

Brenton Productions named Andrea Nicholson account manager. Nicholson’s role focuses on expanding the company’s customer base and increasing marketing exposure for existing clients. “Ms. Nicholson brings a broad range of experience stretching over 13 years in media sales, production and distribution elements of the business, including management of advertising sales for MyClassicGarage.com and NASCAR Productions, overseeing sales efforts of competition and lifestyle content for network and digital-use clients,” said Brenton Managing Partner Jim Cozzie. Nicholson is an active member of the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network. Brenton Productions, Mooresville, NC; 800-572-7798.

Denise Rondini, a writer and consultant in the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry, joined Marx Group Advisors as a vice president and member of the advisory board. In addition to her new role, Rondini will continue as president of Rondini Communications, a company specializing in researching and writing about the medium- and heavy-duty trucking industry. Rondini has covered the trucking industry since 1982 and is a former editor of Successful Dealer and Truck Parts & Service magazines.

Auto Meter Products Inc. acquired Palmer Performance Engineering Inc. and entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Brian Palmer and the DashLogic development team. With this acquisition, Auto Meter will add the DashCommand app to its instrumentation product line. The app can turn any iOS or Android smartphone or tablet into a fully customized dashboard and diagnostic tool. Auto Meter also acquired the ScanXL and ScanXL Pro diagnostic scan tools, which will be added to its test-equipment product range. Finally, Auto Meter added the DashLogic display controller to its instrumentation business and technology portfolio. Auto Meter, Sycamore, IL; 866-248-6356.

Centric Parts and AP Exhaust Technologies announced a joint board agreement to allow AP Executive Chairman Vange Proimos to join the Centric Parts board of directors and Centric President and CEO Dan Lelchuk to join the board of AP. Proimos and Lelchuk have vast experience in the aftermarket hard-parts industry and believe that the joint board appointments will bolster the position of both companies in the marketplace and promote opportunities to collaborate to better serve customers. AP Exhaust Technologies, Goldsboro, NC; 919-580-2000.

International automotive supplier Continental announced the retirement of Jerry Gabbard as vice president and general manager of the Commercial Vehicles and Aftermarket (CVAM) business unit within the company’s interior division—a position he has held since December 2007. James Bayley succeeds Gabbard. In this role, Bayley will be responsible for the organization’s strategic development and overall executive management for its commercial vehicles, specialty vehicles, aftermarket, transportation technologies and original-equipment services business segments. Bayley will also oversee the design engineering, customer support and focus factory resources at Continental’s manufacturing facility in Guadalajara, Mexico. Continental Tire The Americas, Fort Mill, SC; 704-583-3900.

TI Automotive added Michael Grimes to its aftermarket team as sales manager. Grimes reports directly to Doug Thomson, director, North American aftermarket. Grimes is responsible for raising the visibility of TI Automotive in the high-performance aftermarket segment. Grimes joins TI Automotive from Cleveland-based Accel Performance Group, where he was director of retail sales. TI Automotive, Caro, MI; 989-672-8260.

Ryan Levesque, the first apprenticeship recipient for the Hagerty Education Program (HEP) at America’s Car Museum, completed his first six months of training with Precision Motor Cars. HEP awards scholarships and grants to prepare young adults for careers in automotive restoration and preservation. Levesque’s apprenticeship is part of a program that has awarded more than $2.75 million since 2005 for automobile and antique boat restoration education and training. Levesque apprenticed with Keith Flickinger, owner and master craftsman for Precision Motor Cars (a HEP partner), to get more hours under the hood while honing his craft, restoring vehicles from the early 1900s through the 1970s. Hagerty Insurance, Traverse City, MI; 800-922-4050.

SEMA News—June 2015

ELECTIONS

Q&A With Donnie Eatherly

SEMA News: Why are you running for chair-elect of the SEMA Board of Directors (BOD)?

Donnie Eatherly: I am very passionate about this industry and channels of distribution. I think my perspective would be good on all distribution-channel issues as well as how industry changes, policies and legislation affect how our products make it to consumers.

I began my automotive career as a teenager, and my expertise would fall in most areas of running a small business: sales; inventory management; marketing; and managing capital, resources and people. My unique skills include the ability to distill complex issues and explain them in terms that anyone can understand.

My broad perspective allows me to examine issues from all points of view—whether it favors distribution, manufacturers, jobbers, reps or consumers—and consider all perspectives before reaching conclusions intended to benefit everyone involved.

I am qualified to fulfill this position because of my industry tenure and contacts and my previous hands-on participation with the Performance Warehouse Association BOD and the SEMA BOD. I bring a unique perspective from the distribution channel that has been missing from this position over the last 30 years.

Although I might be in the distribution channel, I do know that the SEMA BOD represents all segments of the aftermarket. I am confident that I can do the job and bring my no-nonsense leadership to the BOD and staff, hold to agendas, and uphold the past chairman’s legacy and commitment to getting the job done for our industry.

SN: Recruiting young people to work in the specialty-equipment industry continues to be an important initiative at SEMA. As chairman, what would you hope to accomplish on this issue during your term, and what opportunities should the association pursue?

DE: This question, which I affectionately call “the fountain of youth question,” comes up at every turn in all forms of industry except the electronics and technology sectors.

We have a council in the Young Executives Network (YEN) that we can obviously tap for ideas and initiatives (and I would, if elected), but I think it boils down to the cost of vehicles, vehicle complexity, the cool factor and wages.

When most of us older folks were coming up in the industry, we didn’t have distracting technology to spend our money on. Cars were simpler to work on and more affordable (the hot-rod parts were, too!). Opportunities to engage younger people could include looking into the interests of Monster Energy Supercross and X Games consumer groups, then generating some ideas from that information.

The wage issue is an industry-wide problem because of over distribution and the Internet marketplace. Frankly, it’s a far more daunting task that will involve a lot more input and thought from all councils and industry leaders to see if we can put not only the cool factor into attracting young people to our industry but also being able to afford a cool car or truck and our products to go with it.

SN: What do you see on the legislative and/or regulatory front that poses the greatest concern for SEMA members?

DE: Armies of lawmakers churn out legislation by the day—so much, in fact, that SEMA had the foresight years ago to open an office and staff it in Washington, D.C., to keep up with the bills that pose the most harm to our industry. The ones we must stay on top of are those that affect vehicle emissions and corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards, intellectual property rights and importing/exporting, business tax reform and health-care costs, and labor laws such as card check and wage and hour.

The list is long, but if I’m elected, I would work with the SEMA D.C. office to help identify and prioritize the most harmful issues that are closest to passing.

SN: What kind of impact can the industry expect from the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC), and what should be the association’s goals for the program for the next five years?

DE: The SDC is the largest and most industrious benefits project ever taken on by SEMA. I was on the Board during its formation, and I lobbied for it from the position of someone directly involved. Our company, P&E Distributors, has seen firsthand the benefits this program has brought to the industry. P&E was able to tap into SDC data to participate in marketplaces and do business with customers we would not have had the opportunity to prior to its creation, mostly due to technical and cost limitations. SDC has immense potential, including more data-exchange opportunities—for example, sales-by-part-number data shared between distribution channel partners and vendors as well as shared orders and inventory feeds among participants.

When it comes to data, there seems to be an endless list of wants, but I think SDC is off to a very good start. Under good Board and staff leadership, SDC can yield member benefits for years to come.

SN: The 2014 SEMA Show concluded with a first-ever afterparty open to the pubic—SEMA Ignited—as a way to create enhanced value for exhibitors. What are your thoughts on this new consumer awareness initiative, and what goals should the association pursue as we move forward?

DE: As an attendee, I was very impressed at the participation and activity from both consumers and manufacturers. SEMA has been toying with the idea of a consumer day for years, and from what I saw from this first event, the public turned out pretty favorably for a Friday-night get-together headlined by the coolest rides on the planet!

The members-at-large that I’ve talked to over the years have always mentioned that SEMA should do more to market to consumers about our industry and products. If you step back and think about the TV shows and networks devoted to the automotive aftermarket, I would say that the industry is doing pretty well at getting the word out to the choir. But how can we do even better?

We could look at moving the event from Friday to Saturday, which would allow more participation from the public. Looking ahead two or three years, we could even make it a Saturday–Sunday event that we might call “SEMA Finals.” This type of event could include “regionals” held around the country, through which you could earn your ticket to the SEMA Finals to display alongside the SEMA Show vehicles.

I think it has a very good foundation, and I would challenge the councils, in particular HRIA and ARMO to help us with ideas like I mentioned above moving forward.

SN: In 2014, SEMA officially opened the doors of the SEMA Garage. What opportunities do you see to further expand or enhance the capabilities of the SEMA Garage?

DE: Since I last served on the BOD, SEMA has made large investments on behalf of the membership in the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar. This program, if leveraged fully, would allow our manufacturing members to bring technology, creativity and innovation back to their companies at a more economical cost. Done correctly, this will allow our members to keep up with changing vehicle complexities and technologies—and to bring more products to the marketplace.

If elected, I will challenge the councils and staff on how we can enhance the benefits, and I will use my sales and marketing leadership experience to help staff and councils promote these programs to the members in order to generate more use and a greater return on investment.

SN: What would you say about the importance of the role of the Board in the SEMA organization and why SEMA members need to vote in this year’s BOD election?

DE: The Board is so important because it represents the voice of all voting members. Board members are responsible for directing the association’s resources, including determining how those resources will be allocated and used on behalf of the members.

A good Board must be visionary but pragmatic—good leaders and consensus builders who are willing to vote on behalf of the entire membership, even if it might not be ideal for them or the companies they work for.

It’s important to vote in SEMA’s BOD elections just as it is important to vote in general federal and state elections; the people who win set the direction and tone for the years to come. For example, over the last eight years or so, SEMA has taken on some ambitious benefit projects for its members because of the previous BOD’s leadership ability and strategic planning.

It’s important to vote because SEMA is hitting its stride on some of those ambitious projects—and it’s decision time on whether or how we continue investing in those and get our membership to take full advantage of them.

Make your voice heard and vote in this year’s SEMA Board election when the ballots are available. I’m running for the chair-elect position—and I’m counting on your support!

SEMA News—June 2015

ELECTIONS

Q&A With Donnie Eatherly

SEMA News: Why are you running for chair-elect of the SEMA Board of Directors (BOD)?

Donnie Eatherly: I am very passionate about this industry and channels of distribution. I think my perspective would be good on all distribution-channel issues as well as how industry changes, policies and legislation affect how our products make it to consumers.

I began my automotive career as a teenager, and my expertise would fall in most areas of running a small business: sales; inventory management; marketing; and managing capital, resources and people. My unique skills include the ability to distill complex issues and explain them in terms that anyone can understand.

My broad perspective allows me to examine issues from all points of view—whether it favors distribution, manufacturers, jobbers, reps or consumers—and consider all perspectives before reaching conclusions intended to benefit everyone involved.

I am qualified to fulfill this position because of my industry tenure and contacts and my previous hands-on participation with the Performance Warehouse Association BOD and the SEMA BOD. I bring a unique perspective from the distribution channel that has been missing from this position over the last 30 years.

Although I might be in the distribution channel, I do know that the SEMA BOD represents all segments of the aftermarket. I am confident that I can do the job and bring my no-nonsense leadership to the BOD and staff, hold to agendas, and uphold the past chairman’s legacy and commitment to getting the job done for our industry.

SN: Recruiting young people to work in the specialty-equipment industry continues to be an important initiative at SEMA. As chairman, what would you hope to accomplish on this issue during your term, and what opportunities should the association pursue?

DE: This question, which I affectionately call “the fountain of youth question,” comes up at every turn in all forms of industry except the electronics and technology sectors.

We have a council in the Young Executives Network (YEN) that we can obviously tap for ideas and initiatives (and I would, if elected), but I think it boils down to the cost of vehicles, vehicle complexity, the cool factor and wages.

When most of us older folks were coming up in the industry, we didn’t have distracting technology to spend our money on. Cars were simpler to work on and more affordable (the hot-rod parts were, too!). Opportunities to engage younger people could include looking into the interests of Monster Energy Supercross and X Games consumer groups, then generating some ideas from that information.

The wage issue is an industry-wide problem because of over distribution and the Internet marketplace. Frankly, it’s a far more daunting task that will involve a lot more input and thought from all councils and industry leaders to see if we can put not only the cool factor into attracting young people to our industry but also being able to afford a cool car or truck and our products to go with it.

SN: What do you see on the legislative and/or regulatory front that poses the greatest concern for SEMA members?

DE: Armies of lawmakers churn out legislation by the day—so much, in fact, that SEMA had the foresight years ago to open an office and staff it in Washington, D.C., to keep up with the bills that pose the most harm to our industry. The ones we must stay on top of are those that affect vehicle emissions and corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards, intellectual property rights and importing/exporting, business tax reform and health-care costs, and labor laws such as card check and wage and hour.

The list is long, but if I’m elected, I would work with the SEMA D.C. office to help identify and prioritize the most harmful issues that are closest to passing.

SN: What kind of impact can the industry expect from the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC), and what should be the association’s goals for the program for the next five years?

DE: The SDC is the largest and most industrious benefits project ever taken on by SEMA. I was on the Board during its formation, and I lobbied for it from the position of someone directly involved. Our company, P&E Distributors, has seen firsthand the benefits this program has brought to the industry. P&E was able to tap into SDC data to participate in marketplaces and do business with customers we would not have had the opportunity to prior to its creation, mostly due to technical and cost limitations. SDC has immense potential, including more data-exchange opportunities—for example, sales-by-part-number data shared between distribution channel partners and vendors as well as shared orders and inventory feeds among participants.

When it comes to data, there seems to be an endless list of wants, but I think SDC is off to a very good start. Under good Board and staff leadership, SDC can yield member benefits for years to come.

SN: The 2014 SEMA Show concluded with a first-ever afterparty open to the pubic—SEMA Ignited—as a way to create enhanced value for exhibitors. What are your thoughts on this new consumer awareness initiative, and what goals should the association pursue as we move forward?

DE: As an attendee, I was very impressed at the participation and activity from both consumers and manufacturers. SEMA has been toying with the idea of a consumer day for years, and from what I saw from this first event, the public turned out pretty favorably for a Friday-night get-together headlined by the coolest rides on the planet!

The members-at-large that I’ve talked to over the years have always mentioned that SEMA should do more to market to consumers about our industry and products. If you step back and think about the TV shows and networks devoted to the automotive aftermarket, I would say that the industry is doing pretty well at getting the word out to the choir. But how can we do even better?

We could look at moving the event from Friday to Saturday, which would allow more participation from the public. Looking ahead two or three years, we could even make it a Saturday–Sunday event that we might call “SEMA Finals.” This type of event could include “regionals” held around the country, through which you could earn your ticket to the SEMA Finals to display alongside the SEMA Show vehicles.

I think it has a very good foundation, and I would challenge the councils, in particular HRIA and ARMO to help us with ideas like I mentioned above moving forward.

SN: In 2014, SEMA officially opened the doors of the SEMA Garage. What opportunities do you see to further expand or enhance the capabilities of the SEMA Garage?

DE: Since I last served on the BOD, SEMA has made large investments on behalf of the membership in the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar. This program, if leveraged fully, would allow our manufacturing members to bring technology, creativity and innovation back to their companies at a more economical cost. Done correctly, this will allow our members to keep up with changing vehicle complexities and technologies—and to bring more products to the marketplace.

If elected, I will challenge the councils and staff on how we can enhance the benefits, and I will use my sales and marketing leadership experience to help staff and councils promote these programs to the members in order to generate more use and a greater return on investment.

SN: What would you say about the importance of the role of the Board in the SEMA organization and why SEMA members need to vote in this year’s BOD election?

DE: The Board is so important because it represents the voice of all voting members. Board members are responsible for directing the association’s resources, including determining how those resources will be allocated and used on behalf of the members.

A good Board must be visionary but pragmatic—good leaders and consensus builders who are willing to vote on behalf of the entire membership, even if it might not be ideal for them or the companies they work for.

It’s important to vote in SEMA’s BOD elections just as it is important to vote in general federal and state elections; the people who win set the direction and tone for the years to come. For example, over the last eight years or so, SEMA has taken on some ambitious benefit projects for its members because of the previous BOD’s leadership ability and strategic planning.

It’s important to vote because SEMA is hitting its stride on some of those ambitious projects—and it’s decision time on whether or how we continue investing in those and get our membership to take full advantage of them.

Make your voice heard and vote in this year’s SEMA Board election when the ballots are available. I’m running for the chair-elect position—and I’m counting on your support!

SEMA News—June 2015

ELECTIONS

Q&A With Donnie Eatherly

SEMA News: Why are you running for chair-elect of the SEMA Board of Directors (BOD)?

Donnie Eatherly: I am very passionate about this industry and channels of distribution. I think my perspective would be good on all distribution-channel issues as well as how industry changes, policies and legislation affect how our products make it to consumers.

I began my automotive career as a teenager, and my expertise would fall in most areas of running a small business: sales; inventory management; marketing; and managing capital, resources and people. My unique skills include the ability to distill complex issues and explain them in terms that anyone can understand.

My broad perspective allows me to examine issues from all points of view—whether it favors distribution, manufacturers, jobbers, reps or consumers—and consider all perspectives before reaching conclusions intended to benefit everyone involved.

I am qualified to fulfill this position because of my industry tenure and contacts and my previous hands-on participation with the Performance Warehouse Association BOD and the SEMA BOD. I bring a unique perspective from the distribution channel that has been missing from this position over the last 30 years.

Although I might be in the distribution channel, I do know that the SEMA BOD represents all segments of the aftermarket. I am confident that I can do the job and bring my no-nonsense leadership to the BOD and staff, hold to agendas, and uphold the past chairman’s legacy and commitment to getting the job done for our industry.

SN: Recruiting young people to work in the specialty-equipment industry continues to be an important initiative at SEMA. As chairman, what would you hope to accomplish on this issue during your term, and what opportunities should the association pursue?

DE: This question, which I affectionately call “the fountain of youth question,” comes up at every turn in all forms of industry except the electronics and technology sectors.

We have a council in the Young Executives Network (YEN) that we can obviously tap for ideas and initiatives (and I would, if elected), but I think it boils down to the cost of vehicles, vehicle complexity, the cool factor and wages.

When most of us older folks were coming up in the industry, we didn’t have distracting technology to spend our money on. Cars were simpler to work on and more affordable (the hot-rod parts were, too!). Opportunities to engage younger people could include looking into the interests of Monster Energy Supercross and X Games consumer groups, then generating some ideas from that information.

The wage issue is an industry-wide problem because of over distribution and the Internet marketplace. Frankly, it’s a far more daunting task that will involve a lot more input and thought from all councils and industry leaders to see if we can put not only the cool factor into attracting young people to our industry but also being able to afford a cool car or truck and our products to go with it.

SN: What do you see on the legislative and/or regulatory front that poses the greatest concern for SEMA members?

DE: Armies of lawmakers churn out legislation by the day—so much, in fact, that SEMA had the foresight years ago to open an office and staff it in Washington, D.C., to keep up with the bills that pose the most harm to our industry. The ones we must stay on top of are those that affect vehicle emissions and corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards, intellectual property rights and importing/exporting, business tax reform and health-care costs, and labor laws such as card check and wage and hour.

The list is long, but if I’m elected, I would work with the SEMA D.C. office to help identify and prioritize the most harmful issues that are closest to passing.

SN: What kind of impact can the industry expect from the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC), and what should be the association’s goals for the program for the next five years?

DE: The SDC is the largest and most industrious benefits project ever taken on by SEMA. I was on the Board during its formation, and I lobbied for it from the position of someone directly involved. Our company, P&E Distributors, has seen firsthand the benefits this program has brought to the industry. P&E was able to tap into SDC data to participate in marketplaces and do business with customers we would not have had the opportunity to prior to its creation, mostly due to technical and cost limitations. SDC has immense potential, including more data-exchange opportunities—for example, sales-by-part-number data shared between distribution channel partners and vendors as well as shared orders and inventory feeds among participants.

When it comes to data, there seems to be an endless list of wants, but I think SDC is off to a very good start. Under good Board and staff leadership, SDC can yield member benefits for years to come.

SN: The 2014 SEMA Show concluded with a first-ever afterparty open to the pubic—SEMA Ignited—as a way to create enhanced value for exhibitors. What are your thoughts on this new consumer awareness initiative, and what goals should the association pursue as we move forward?

DE: As an attendee, I was very impressed at the participation and activity from both consumers and manufacturers. SEMA has been toying with the idea of a consumer day for years, and from what I saw from this first event, the public turned out pretty favorably for a Friday-night get-together headlined by the coolest rides on the planet!

The members-at-large that I’ve talked to over the years have always mentioned that SEMA should do more to market to consumers about our industry and products. If you step back and think about the TV shows and networks devoted to the automotive aftermarket, I would say that the industry is doing pretty well at getting the word out to the choir. But how can we do even better?

We could look at moving the event from Friday to Saturday, which would allow more participation from the public. Looking ahead two or three years, we could even make it a Saturday–Sunday event that we might call “SEMA Finals.” This type of event could include “regionals” held around the country, through which you could earn your ticket to the SEMA Finals to display alongside the SEMA Show vehicles.

I think it has a very good foundation, and I would challenge the councils, in particular HRIA and ARMO to help us with ideas like I mentioned above moving forward.

SN: In 2014, SEMA officially opened the doors of the SEMA Garage. What opportunities do you see to further expand or enhance the capabilities of the SEMA Garage?

DE: Since I last served on the BOD, SEMA has made large investments on behalf of the membership in the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar. This program, if leveraged fully, would allow our manufacturing members to bring technology, creativity and innovation back to their companies at a more economical cost. Done correctly, this will allow our members to keep up with changing vehicle complexities and technologies—and to bring more products to the marketplace.

If elected, I will challenge the councils and staff on how we can enhance the benefits, and I will use my sales and marketing leadership experience to help staff and councils promote these programs to the members in order to generate more use and a greater return on investment.

SN: What would you say about the importance of the role of the Board in the SEMA organization and why SEMA members need to vote in this year’s BOD election?

DE: The Board is so important because it represents the voice of all voting members. Board members are responsible for directing the association’s resources, including determining how those resources will be allocated and used on behalf of the members.

A good Board must be visionary but pragmatic—good leaders and consensus builders who are willing to vote on behalf of the entire membership, even if it might not be ideal for them or the companies they work for.

It’s important to vote in SEMA’s BOD elections just as it is important to vote in general federal and state elections; the people who win set the direction and tone for the years to come. For example, over the last eight years or so, SEMA has taken on some ambitious benefit projects for its members because of the previous BOD’s leadership ability and strategic planning.

It’s important to vote because SEMA is hitting its stride on some of those ambitious projects—and it’s decision time on whether or how we continue investing in those and get our membership to take full advantage of them.

Make your voice heard and vote in this year’s SEMA Board election when the ballots are available. I’m running for the chair-elect position—and I’m counting on your support!

SEMA News—June 2015

ELECTIONS

Q&A With Donnie Eatherly

SEMA News: Why are you running for chair-elect of the SEMA Board of Directors (BOD)?

Donnie Eatherly: I am very passionate about this industry and channels of distribution. I think my perspective would be good on all distribution-channel issues as well as how industry changes, policies and legislation affect how our products make it to consumers.

I began my automotive career as a teenager, and my expertise would fall in most areas of running a small business: sales; inventory management; marketing; and managing capital, resources and people. My unique skills include the ability to distill complex issues and explain them in terms that anyone can understand.

My broad perspective allows me to examine issues from all points of view—whether it favors distribution, manufacturers, jobbers, reps or consumers—and consider all perspectives before reaching conclusions intended to benefit everyone involved.

I am qualified to fulfill this position because of my industry tenure and contacts and my previous hands-on participation with the Performance Warehouse Association BOD and the SEMA BOD. I bring a unique perspective from the distribution channel that has been missing from this position over the last 30 years.

Although I might be in the distribution channel, I do know that the SEMA BOD represents all segments of the aftermarket. I am confident that I can do the job and bring my no-nonsense leadership to the BOD and staff, hold to agendas, and uphold the past chairman’s legacy and commitment to getting the job done for our industry.

SN: Recruiting young people to work in the specialty-equipment industry continues to be an important initiative at SEMA. As chairman, what would you hope to accomplish on this issue during your term, and what opportunities should the association pursue?

DE: This question, which I affectionately call “the fountain of youth question,” comes up at every turn in all forms of industry except the electronics and technology sectors.

We have a council in the Young Executives Network (YEN) that we can obviously tap for ideas and initiatives (and I would, if elected), but I think it boils down to the cost of vehicles, vehicle complexity, the cool factor and wages.

When most of us older folks were coming up in the industry, we didn’t have distracting technology to spend our money on. Cars were simpler to work on and more affordable (the hot-rod parts were, too!). Opportunities to engage younger people could include looking into the interests of Monster Energy Supercross and X Games consumer groups, then generating some ideas from that information.

The wage issue is an industry-wide problem because of over distribution and the Internet marketplace. Frankly, it’s a far more daunting task that will involve a lot more input and thought from all councils and industry leaders to see if we can put not only the cool factor into attracting young people to our industry but also being able to afford a cool car or truck and our products to go with it.

SN: What do you see on the legislative and/or regulatory front that poses the greatest concern for SEMA members?

DE: Armies of lawmakers churn out legislation by the day—so much, in fact, that SEMA had the foresight years ago to open an office and staff it in Washington, D.C., to keep up with the bills that pose the most harm to our industry. The ones we must stay on top of are those that affect vehicle emissions and corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) standards, intellectual property rights and importing/exporting, business tax reform and health-care costs, and labor laws such as card check and wage and hour.

The list is long, but if I’m elected, I would work with the SEMA D.C. office to help identify and prioritize the most harmful issues that are closest to passing.

SN: What kind of impact can the industry expect from the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC), and what should be the association’s goals for the program for the next five years?

DE: The SDC is the largest and most industrious benefits project ever taken on by SEMA. I was on the Board during its formation, and I lobbied for it from the position of someone directly involved. Our company, P&E Distributors, has seen firsthand the benefits this program has brought to the industry. P&E was able to tap into SDC data to participate in marketplaces and do business with customers we would not have had the opportunity to prior to its creation, mostly due to technical and cost limitations. SDC has immense potential, including more data-exchange opportunities—for example, sales-by-part-number data shared between distribution channel partners and vendors as well as shared orders and inventory feeds among participants.

When it comes to data, there seems to be an endless list of wants, but I think SDC is off to a very good start. Under good Board and staff leadership, SDC can yield member benefits for years to come.

SN: The 2014 SEMA Show concluded with a first-ever afterparty open to the pubic—SEMA Ignited—as a way to create enhanced value for exhibitors. What are your thoughts on this new consumer awareness initiative, and what goals should the association pursue as we move forward?

DE: As an attendee, I was very impressed at the participation and activity from both consumers and manufacturers. SEMA has been toying with the idea of a consumer day for years, and from what I saw from this first event, the public turned out pretty favorably for a Friday-night get-together headlined by the coolest rides on the planet!

The members-at-large that I’ve talked to over the years have always mentioned that SEMA should do more to market to consumers about our industry and products. If you step back and think about the TV shows and networks devoted to the automotive aftermarket, I would say that the industry is doing pretty well at getting the word out to the choir. But how can we do even better?

We could look at moving the event from Friday to Saturday, which would allow more participation from the public. Looking ahead two or three years, we could even make it a Saturday–Sunday event that we might call “SEMA Finals.” This type of event could include “regionals” held around the country, through which you could earn your ticket to the SEMA Finals to display alongside the SEMA Show vehicles.

I think it has a very good foundation, and I would challenge the councils, in particular HRIA and ARMO to help us with ideas like I mentioned above moving forward.

SN: In 2014, SEMA officially opened the doors of the SEMA Garage. What opportunities do you see to further expand or enhance the capabilities of the SEMA Garage?

DE: Since I last served on the BOD, SEMA has made large investments on behalf of the membership in the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar. This program, if leveraged fully, would allow our manufacturing members to bring technology, creativity and innovation back to their companies at a more economical cost. Done correctly, this will allow our members to keep up with changing vehicle complexities and technologies—and to bring more products to the marketplace.

If elected, I will challenge the councils and staff on how we can enhance the benefits, and I will use my sales and marketing leadership experience to help staff and councils promote these programs to the members in order to generate more use and a greater return on investment.

SN: What would you say about the importance of the role of the Board in the SEMA organization and why SEMA members need to vote in this year’s BOD election?

DE: The Board is so important because it represents the voice of all voting members. Board members are responsible for directing the association’s resources, including determining how those resources will be allocated and used on behalf of the members.

A good Board must be visionary but pragmatic—good leaders and consensus builders who are willing to vote on behalf of the entire membership, even if it might not be ideal for them or the companies they work for.

It’s important to vote in SEMA’s BOD elections just as it is important to vote in general federal and state elections; the people who win set the direction and tone for the years to come. For example, over the last eight years or so, SEMA has taken on some ambitious benefit projects for its members because of the previous BOD’s leadership ability and strategic planning.

It’s important to vote because SEMA is hitting its stride on some of those ambitious projects—and it’s decision time on whether or how we continue investing in those and get our membership to take full advantage of them.

Make your voice heard and vote in this year’s SEMA Board election when the ballots are available. I’m running for the chair-elect position—and I’m counting on your support!