For more information, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.
For more information, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.
SEMA News—March 2012
INDUSTRY NEWS
Fast Facts
![]() Scott Luckett, MAAP, vice president of technology standards for the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), to its Board of Trustees. |
|
AP Exhaust Technologies Inc. acquired the assets of ANSA Automotive Parts Distributors. The sale was finalized December 23, and the terms of the transaction were not disclosed. According to a release from the Marx Group Advisors—the agency that brokered the sale—all assets of ANSA, including inventory, were sold to AP Exhaust and have been relocated from ANSA in Macon, Georgia, to AP Exhaust’s headquarters in Goldsboro, North Carolina. AP Exhaust Technologies, 919-580-2000.
Crane Cams announced that it has moved to an expanded facility in Daytona Beach, Florida. The new facility is located at 1830 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32117. “The new Holsonback facility provides us with the space and foundation we need to support our growth projections for the next five years,” says Crane Cams President, Sean Holly. In addition, the new facility allows the company to consolidate the two Crane Cams Valve Train and Crane Cams Ignition manufacturing in one location, according to the company. Crane Cams, Daytona Beach, FL; 866-388-5120.
Mile Marker Inc. announced that Wade Cobb joined the company as national sales manager. He will be responsible for overseeing the company’s entire outside sales force and product promotion to help increase sales. According to Mile Marker, Cobb has been a partner with Hapco for several years while representing the company’s product line in the past. Mile Marker, Pompano Beach, FL; 954-782-0604.
![]() A 1969 Meyers Manx Dune Buggy that came to Mid America Motorworks with original certification will be on display at Funfest for Air-Cooled VW 2012, June 1–3, at Mid America Motorworks’ corporate campus in Effingham, Illinois. |
|
Kahn Media announced that it was selected by B&M Automotive Group to assist with public relations and communications, including targeted outreach, social media marketing and special projects. The B&M Automotive Group includes high-performance brands B&M Racing & Performance, Flowmaster Exhaust, Hurst Shifters and Hurst Driveline Conversions. Kahn Media, Reseda, CA; 818-881-5246. B&M Automotive Group, Chatsworth, CA; 818-882-6422.
Speedway Motors has partnered with Lucas Oil and the Speedway Motors Big Rig to showcase Lucas Oil lubricants and additives at events across the country. The first stop for the Speedway Motors Big Rig was the Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Midget Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Speedway Motors Inc., Lincoln, NE; 402-323-3244.
Clean Seal Inc. and Uni-Grip Inc. are celebrating the 20-year partnership between the companies that has resulted in a full line of grip seal products for the recreational vehicle, truck, bus and marine industries. Bill Dawson, vice president and general manager of Clean Seal Inc. said, “We are extremely pleased with our relationship with Uni-Grip and look forward to many more years of partnership in the future.” Clean Seal Inc., South Bend, IN; 574-299-1888.
Akebono Brake Corp. partnered with ExtremeWrench to offer reward points to independent repair shops through the ExtremeWrench rewards portal. Akebono will offer rewards for scanning the barcodes on the company’s complete line of brake pads, brake drums and calipers. Reward points can be redeemed for trips, merchandise, technical training and other prizes offered by ExtremeWrench. Akebono Brake Corp., Elizabethtown, KY; 270-234-5500.
The following new hires were announced by Tire Group International: Enrique Goudie, a 20-year veteran of the tire industry, joined the company’s international team as senior category manager; Sherko Hajrasouli joined the company as its territory manager for the Middle East; Alejandra Troconis was hired as senior marketing manager; David Morris was added to the domestic team as domestic commercial manager; and Emilio Perez Jr. joined the company as territory manager for Palm Beach County.
Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season. In addition to driving, Tack will also help train on-deck driver JR Adams. Tack’s record behind the wheel of Team Bigfoot’s truck includes capturing his first championship in 2000, the inaugural ProMT title, and Monster Nationals championships in 2002 and 2003. After his retirement from driving in 2003, Tack got behind the wheel of BIGFOOT again in 2010 at the Pontiac Silverdome.

Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season.
Katzkin Leather Inc. signed a sponsorship agreement with automotive TV series “Motorz.” Based in San Diego, “Motorz” will showcase Katzkin’s custom leather interiors and their installation as part of its hands-on, “how-to” TV series. Chris Duke, “Motorz” host and producer said, “Katzkin is not only the most respected leather seat interior manufacturer, they are also being used by the automotive manufacturers themselves as upgrades in many of their most popular vehicles.” New episodes of “Motorz” air on Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. (PST) on DirecTV or DISH Network. Episodes are also available at www.motorz.tv. Katzkin Leather Inc., Montebello, CA; 404-386-3609.
Curtis Industries LLC signed an installment financing agreement with Sheffield Financial, a subsidiary of BB&T, effective September 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012. The agreement provides consumer financing to customers purchasing Sno-Pro snow and ice control products through authorized Sno-Pro and Curtis dealers, including truck and UTV plows, spreaders and loader blades. “We are very happy to offer consumer financing to our customers through our national dealer network,” said Thomas Dimauro, vice president for Curtis Industries. “Sheffield has a great reputation for customer service with excellent experience in our industry.”
James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner. The award recognizes a graduate who has completed post-secondary education while overcoming challenges. After being laid off from his job as a diesel mechanic at Ford, Turgeon took a risk by leaving his hometown to learn more about what he loves the most, motorcycles. As a Dream Award winner, he will receive a $2,500 scholarship to pursue advanced programs in his field of study.

James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner.
CargoGlide announced that it is the U.S. sales arm for TRUCKBOSS by Marathon Decks. The TRUCKBOSS is an all aluminum anodized truck bed deck that utilizes Capture Channel Technology, enabling adjustments to fit any fullsize pickup while allowing for the addition of accessories. CargoGlide, St. George, UT; 239-340-9605.
Infineon Raceway promoted Rachal Pollen to director of marketing. According to Infineon Raceway officials, Pollen will help oversee the planning and execution of all marketing initiatives at the raceway, including the annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and IZOD IndyCar Series race weekend. Pollen has served as senior manager of marketing for Infineon since 2006.
Federated Auto Parts has obtained the rights to the I-55 Speedway in Pevely, Missouri. According to the company, the I-55 Speedway, now known as the Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55, annually hosts some of the most competitive dirt-track races in the nation. The raceway is co-owned by longtime Federated spokesperson and dirt-track legend Ken Schrader. Federated also announced that the newly renamed raceway will host the inaugural 2012 Federated Auto Parts World of Outlaws “Ironman 55” race in August.
CRC Industries announced that the company will participate in the 2012 season of “Two Guys Garage” and “TruckU,” produced by Brenton Productions and aired on the Speed Channel. According to CRC, the shows will feature CRC products in use and on the set to promote the company’s CRC BRAKLEEN brake parts cleaner and full line of automotive maintenance products. CRC Marketing Manager Dori Ahart said, “There is a recent trend toward increased vehicle maintenance over buying new. Car and truck owners are trying to get the most out of their vehicles, and these shows help them learn how.”
SEMA News—March 2012
INDUSTRY NEWS
Fast Facts
![]() Scott Luckett, MAAP, vice president of technology standards for the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), to its Board of Trustees. |
|
AP Exhaust Technologies Inc. acquired the assets of ANSA Automotive Parts Distributors. The sale was finalized December 23, and the terms of the transaction were not disclosed. According to a release from the Marx Group Advisors—the agency that brokered the sale—all assets of ANSA, including inventory, were sold to AP Exhaust and have been relocated from ANSA in Macon, Georgia, to AP Exhaust’s headquarters in Goldsboro, North Carolina. AP Exhaust Technologies, 919-580-2000.
Crane Cams announced that it has moved to an expanded facility in Daytona Beach, Florida. The new facility is located at 1830 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32117. “The new Holsonback facility provides us with the space and foundation we need to support our growth projections for the next five years,” says Crane Cams President, Sean Holly. In addition, the new facility allows the company to consolidate the two Crane Cams Valve Train and Crane Cams Ignition manufacturing in one location, according to the company. Crane Cams, Daytona Beach, FL; 866-388-5120.
Mile Marker Inc. announced that Wade Cobb joined the company as national sales manager. He will be responsible for overseeing the company’s entire outside sales force and product promotion to help increase sales. According to Mile Marker, Cobb has been a partner with Hapco for several years while representing the company’s product line in the past. Mile Marker, Pompano Beach, FL; 954-782-0604.
![]() A 1969 Meyers Manx Dune Buggy that came to Mid America Motorworks with original certification will be on display at Funfest for Air-Cooled VW 2012, June 1–3, at Mid America Motorworks’ corporate campus in Effingham, Illinois. |
|
Kahn Media announced that it was selected by B&M Automotive Group to assist with public relations and communications, including targeted outreach, social media marketing and special projects. The B&M Automotive Group includes high-performance brands B&M Racing & Performance, Flowmaster Exhaust, Hurst Shifters and Hurst Driveline Conversions. Kahn Media, Reseda, CA; 818-881-5246. B&M Automotive Group, Chatsworth, CA; 818-882-6422.
Speedway Motors has partnered with Lucas Oil and the Speedway Motors Big Rig to showcase Lucas Oil lubricants and additives at events across the country. The first stop for the Speedway Motors Big Rig was the Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Midget Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Speedway Motors Inc., Lincoln, NE; 402-323-3244.
Clean Seal Inc. and Uni-Grip Inc. are celebrating the 20-year partnership between the companies that has resulted in a full line of grip seal products for the recreational vehicle, truck, bus and marine industries. Bill Dawson, vice president and general manager of Clean Seal Inc. said, “We are extremely pleased with our relationship with Uni-Grip and look forward to many more years of partnership in the future.” Clean Seal Inc., South Bend, IN; 574-299-1888.
Akebono Brake Corp. partnered with ExtremeWrench to offer reward points to independent repair shops through the ExtremeWrench rewards portal. Akebono will offer rewards for scanning the barcodes on the company’s complete line of brake pads, brake drums and calipers. Reward points can be redeemed for trips, merchandise, technical training and other prizes offered by ExtremeWrench. Akebono Brake Corp., Elizabethtown, KY; 270-234-5500.
The following new hires were announced by Tire Group International: Enrique Goudie, a 20-year veteran of the tire industry, joined the company’s international team as senior category manager; Sherko Hajrasouli joined the company as its territory manager for the Middle East; Alejandra Troconis was hired as senior marketing manager; David Morris was added to the domestic team as domestic commercial manager; and Emilio Perez Jr. joined the company as territory manager for Palm Beach County.
Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season. In addition to driving, Tack will also help train on-deck driver JR Adams. Tack’s record behind the wheel of Team Bigfoot’s truck includes capturing his first championship in 2000, the inaugural ProMT title, and Monster Nationals championships in 2002 and 2003. After his retirement from driving in 2003, Tack got behind the wheel of BIGFOOT again in 2010 at the Pontiac Silverdome.

Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season.
Katzkin Leather Inc. signed a sponsorship agreement with automotive TV series “Motorz.” Based in San Diego, “Motorz” will showcase Katzkin’s custom leather interiors and their installation as part of its hands-on, “how-to” TV series. Chris Duke, “Motorz” host and producer said, “Katzkin is not only the most respected leather seat interior manufacturer, they are also being used by the automotive manufacturers themselves as upgrades in many of their most popular vehicles.” New episodes of “Motorz” air on Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. (PST) on DirecTV or DISH Network. Episodes are also available at www.motorz.tv. Katzkin Leather Inc., Montebello, CA; 404-386-3609.
Curtis Industries LLC signed an installment financing agreement with Sheffield Financial, a subsidiary of BB&T, effective September 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012. The agreement provides consumer financing to customers purchasing Sno-Pro snow and ice control products through authorized Sno-Pro and Curtis dealers, including truck and UTV plows, spreaders and loader blades. “We are very happy to offer consumer financing to our customers through our national dealer network,” said Thomas Dimauro, vice president for Curtis Industries. “Sheffield has a great reputation for customer service with excellent experience in our industry.”
James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner. The award recognizes a graduate who has completed post-secondary education while overcoming challenges. After being laid off from his job as a diesel mechanic at Ford, Turgeon took a risk by leaving his hometown to learn more about what he loves the most, motorcycles. As a Dream Award winner, he will receive a $2,500 scholarship to pursue advanced programs in his field of study.

James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner.
CargoGlide announced that it is the U.S. sales arm for TRUCKBOSS by Marathon Decks. The TRUCKBOSS is an all aluminum anodized truck bed deck that utilizes Capture Channel Technology, enabling adjustments to fit any fullsize pickup while allowing for the addition of accessories. CargoGlide, St. George, UT; 239-340-9605.
Infineon Raceway promoted Rachal Pollen to director of marketing. According to Infineon Raceway officials, Pollen will help oversee the planning and execution of all marketing initiatives at the raceway, including the annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and IZOD IndyCar Series race weekend. Pollen has served as senior manager of marketing for Infineon since 2006.
Federated Auto Parts has obtained the rights to the I-55 Speedway in Pevely, Missouri. According to the company, the I-55 Speedway, now known as the Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55, annually hosts some of the most competitive dirt-track races in the nation. The raceway is co-owned by longtime Federated spokesperson and dirt-track legend Ken Schrader. Federated also announced that the newly renamed raceway will host the inaugural 2012 Federated Auto Parts World of Outlaws “Ironman 55” race in August.
CRC Industries announced that the company will participate in the 2012 season of “Two Guys Garage” and “TruckU,” produced by Brenton Productions and aired on the Speed Channel. According to CRC, the shows will feature CRC products in use and on the set to promote the company’s CRC BRAKLEEN brake parts cleaner and full line of automotive maintenance products. CRC Marketing Manager Dori Ahart said, “There is a recent trend toward increased vehicle maintenance over buying new. Car and truck owners are trying to get the most out of their vehicles, and these shows help them learn how.”
SEMA News—March 2012
INDUSTRY NEWS
Fast Facts
![]() Scott Luckett, MAAP, vice president of technology standards for the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), to its Board of Trustees. |
|
AP Exhaust Technologies Inc. acquired the assets of ANSA Automotive Parts Distributors. The sale was finalized December 23, and the terms of the transaction were not disclosed. According to a release from the Marx Group Advisors—the agency that brokered the sale—all assets of ANSA, including inventory, were sold to AP Exhaust and have been relocated from ANSA in Macon, Georgia, to AP Exhaust’s headquarters in Goldsboro, North Carolina. AP Exhaust Technologies, 919-580-2000.
Crane Cams announced that it has moved to an expanded facility in Daytona Beach, Florida. The new facility is located at 1830 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32117. “The new Holsonback facility provides us with the space and foundation we need to support our growth projections for the next five years,” says Crane Cams President, Sean Holly. In addition, the new facility allows the company to consolidate the two Crane Cams Valve Train and Crane Cams Ignition manufacturing in one location, according to the company. Crane Cams, Daytona Beach, FL; 866-388-5120.
Mile Marker Inc. announced that Wade Cobb joined the company as national sales manager. He will be responsible for overseeing the company’s entire outside sales force and product promotion to help increase sales. According to Mile Marker, Cobb has been a partner with Hapco for several years while representing the company’s product line in the past. Mile Marker, Pompano Beach, FL; 954-782-0604.
![]() A 1969 Meyers Manx Dune Buggy that came to Mid America Motorworks with original certification will be on display at Funfest for Air-Cooled VW 2012, June 1–3, at Mid America Motorworks’ corporate campus in Effingham, Illinois. |
|
Kahn Media announced that it was selected by B&M Automotive Group to assist with public relations and communications, including targeted outreach, social media marketing and special projects. The B&M Automotive Group includes high-performance brands B&M Racing & Performance, Flowmaster Exhaust, Hurst Shifters and Hurst Driveline Conversions. Kahn Media, Reseda, CA; 818-881-5246. B&M Automotive Group, Chatsworth, CA; 818-882-6422.
Speedway Motors has partnered with Lucas Oil and the Speedway Motors Big Rig to showcase Lucas Oil lubricants and additives at events across the country. The first stop for the Speedway Motors Big Rig was the Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Midget Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Speedway Motors Inc., Lincoln, NE; 402-323-3244.
Clean Seal Inc. and Uni-Grip Inc. are celebrating the 20-year partnership between the companies that has resulted in a full line of grip seal products for the recreational vehicle, truck, bus and marine industries. Bill Dawson, vice president and general manager of Clean Seal Inc. said, “We are extremely pleased with our relationship with Uni-Grip and look forward to many more years of partnership in the future.” Clean Seal Inc., South Bend, IN; 574-299-1888.
Akebono Brake Corp. partnered with ExtremeWrench to offer reward points to independent repair shops through the ExtremeWrench rewards portal. Akebono will offer rewards for scanning the barcodes on the company’s complete line of brake pads, brake drums and calipers. Reward points can be redeemed for trips, merchandise, technical training and other prizes offered by ExtremeWrench. Akebono Brake Corp., Elizabethtown, KY; 270-234-5500.
The following new hires were announced by Tire Group International: Enrique Goudie, a 20-year veteran of the tire industry, joined the company’s international team as senior category manager; Sherko Hajrasouli joined the company as its territory manager for the Middle East; Alejandra Troconis was hired as senior marketing manager; David Morris was added to the domestic team as domestic commercial manager; and Emilio Perez Jr. joined the company as territory manager for Palm Beach County.
Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season. In addition to driving, Tack will also help train on-deck driver JR Adams. Tack’s record behind the wheel of Team Bigfoot’s truck includes capturing his first championship in 2000, the inaugural ProMT title, and Monster Nationals championships in 2002 and 2003. After his retirement from driving in 2003, Tack got behind the wheel of BIGFOOT again in 2010 at the Pontiac Silverdome.

Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season.
Katzkin Leather Inc. signed a sponsorship agreement with automotive TV series “Motorz.” Based in San Diego, “Motorz” will showcase Katzkin’s custom leather interiors and their installation as part of its hands-on, “how-to” TV series. Chris Duke, “Motorz” host and producer said, “Katzkin is not only the most respected leather seat interior manufacturer, they are also being used by the automotive manufacturers themselves as upgrades in many of their most popular vehicles.” New episodes of “Motorz” air on Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. (PST) on DirecTV or DISH Network. Episodes are also available at www.motorz.tv. Katzkin Leather Inc., Montebello, CA; 404-386-3609.
Curtis Industries LLC signed an installment financing agreement with Sheffield Financial, a subsidiary of BB&T, effective September 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012. The agreement provides consumer financing to customers purchasing Sno-Pro snow and ice control products through authorized Sno-Pro and Curtis dealers, including truck and UTV plows, spreaders and loader blades. “We are very happy to offer consumer financing to our customers through our national dealer network,” said Thomas Dimauro, vice president for Curtis Industries. “Sheffield has a great reputation for customer service with excellent experience in our industry.”
James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner. The award recognizes a graduate who has completed post-secondary education while overcoming challenges. After being laid off from his job as a diesel mechanic at Ford, Turgeon took a risk by leaving his hometown to learn more about what he loves the most, motorcycles. As a Dream Award winner, he will receive a $2,500 scholarship to pursue advanced programs in his field of study.

James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner.
CargoGlide announced that it is the U.S. sales arm for TRUCKBOSS by Marathon Decks. The TRUCKBOSS is an all aluminum anodized truck bed deck that utilizes Capture Channel Technology, enabling adjustments to fit any fullsize pickup while allowing for the addition of accessories. CargoGlide, St. George, UT; 239-340-9605.
Infineon Raceway promoted Rachal Pollen to director of marketing. According to Infineon Raceway officials, Pollen will help oversee the planning and execution of all marketing initiatives at the raceway, including the annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and IZOD IndyCar Series race weekend. Pollen has served as senior manager of marketing for Infineon since 2006.
Federated Auto Parts has obtained the rights to the I-55 Speedway in Pevely, Missouri. According to the company, the I-55 Speedway, now known as the Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55, annually hosts some of the most competitive dirt-track races in the nation. The raceway is co-owned by longtime Federated spokesperson and dirt-track legend Ken Schrader. Federated also announced that the newly renamed raceway will host the inaugural 2012 Federated Auto Parts World of Outlaws “Ironman 55” race in August.
CRC Industries announced that the company will participate in the 2012 season of “Two Guys Garage” and “TruckU,” produced by Brenton Productions and aired on the Speed Channel. According to CRC, the shows will feature CRC products in use and on the set to promote the company’s CRC BRAKLEEN brake parts cleaner and full line of automotive maintenance products. CRC Marketing Manager Dori Ahart said, “There is a recent trend toward increased vehicle maintenance over buying new. Car and truck owners are trying to get the most out of their vehicles, and these shows help them learn how.”
SEMA News—March 2012
INDUSTRY NEWS
Fast Facts
![]() Scott Luckett, MAAP, vice president of technology standards for the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), to its Board of Trustees. |
|
AP Exhaust Technologies Inc. acquired the assets of ANSA Automotive Parts Distributors. The sale was finalized December 23, and the terms of the transaction were not disclosed. According to a release from the Marx Group Advisors—the agency that brokered the sale—all assets of ANSA, including inventory, were sold to AP Exhaust and have been relocated from ANSA in Macon, Georgia, to AP Exhaust’s headquarters in Goldsboro, North Carolina. AP Exhaust Technologies, 919-580-2000.
Crane Cams announced that it has moved to an expanded facility in Daytona Beach, Florida. The new facility is located at 1830 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32117. “The new Holsonback facility provides us with the space and foundation we need to support our growth projections for the next five years,” says Crane Cams President, Sean Holly. In addition, the new facility allows the company to consolidate the two Crane Cams Valve Train and Crane Cams Ignition manufacturing in one location, according to the company. Crane Cams, Daytona Beach, FL; 866-388-5120.
Mile Marker Inc. announced that Wade Cobb joined the company as national sales manager. He will be responsible for overseeing the company’s entire outside sales force and product promotion to help increase sales. According to Mile Marker, Cobb has been a partner with Hapco for several years while representing the company’s product line in the past. Mile Marker, Pompano Beach, FL; 954-782-0604.
![]() A 1969 Meyers Manx Dune Buggy that came to Mid America Motorworks with original certification will be on display at Funfest for Air-Cooled VW 2012, June 1–3, at Mid America Motorworks’ corporate campus in Effingham, Illinois. |
|
Kahn Media announced that it was selected by B&M Automotive Group to assist with public relations and communications, including targeted outreach, social media marketing and special projects. The B&M Automotive Group includes high-performance brands B&M Racing & Performance, Flowmaster Exhaust, Hurst Shifters and Hurst Driveline Conversions. Kahn Media, Reseda, CA; 818-881-5246. B&M Automotive Group, Chatsworth, CA; 818-882-6422.
Speedway Motors has partnered with Lucas Oil and the Speedway Motors Big Rig to showcase Lucas Oil lubricants and additives at events across the country. The first stop for the Speedway Motors Big Rig was the Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Midget Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Speedway Motors Inc., Lincoln, NE; 402-323-3244.
Clean Seal Inc. and Uni-Grip Inc. are celebrating the 20-year partnership between the companies that has resulted in a full line of grip seal products for the recreational vehicle, truck, bus and marine industries. Bill Dawson, vice president and general manager of Clean Seal Inc. said, “We are extremely pleased with our relationship with Uni-Grip and look forward to many more years of partnership in the future.” Clean Seal Inc., South Bend, IN; 574-299-1888.
Akebono Brake Corp. partnered with ExtremeWrench to offer reward points to independent repair shops through the ExtremeWrench rewards portal. Akebono will offer rewards for scanning the barcodes on the company’s complete line of brake pads, brake drums and calipers. Reward points can be redeemed for trips, merchandise, technical training and other prizes offered by ExtremeWrench. Akebono Brake Corp., Elizabethtown, KY; 270-234-5500.
The following new hires were announced by Tire Group International: Enrique Goudie, a 20-year veteran of the tire industry, joined the company’s international team as senior category manager; Sherko Hajrasouli joined the company as its territory manager for the Middle East; Alejandra Troconis was hired as senior marketing manager; David Morris was added to the domestic team as domestic commercial manager; and Emilio Perez Jr. joined the company as territory manager for Palm Beach County.
Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season. In addition to driving, Tack will also help train on-deck driver JR Adams. Tack’s record behind the wheel of Team Bigfoot’s truck includes capturing his first championship in 2000, the inaugural ProMT title, and Monster Nationals championships in 2002 and 2003. After his retirement from driving in 2003, Tack got behind the wheel of BIGFOOT again in 2010 at the Pontiac Silverdome.

Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season.
Katzkin Leather Inc. signed a sponsorship agreement with automotive TV series “Motorz.” Based in San Diego, “Motorz” will showcase Katzkin’s custom leather interiors and their installation as part of its hands-on, “how-to” TV series. Chris Duke, “Motorz” host and producer said, “Katzkin is not only the most respected leather seat interior manufacturer, they are also being used by the automotive manufacturers themselves as upgrades in many of their most popular vehicles.” New episodes of “Motorz” air on Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. (PST) on DirecTV or DISH Network. Episodes are also available at www.motorz.tv. Katzkin Leather Inc., Montebello, CA; 404-386-3609.
Curtis Industries LLC signed an installment financing agreement with Sheffield Financial, a subsidiary of BB&T, effective September 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012. The agreement provides consumer financing to customers purchasing Sno-Pro snow and ice control products through authorized Sno-Pro and Curtis dealers, including truck and UTV plows, spreaders and loader blades. “We are very happy to offer consumer financing to our customers through our national dealer network,” said Thomas Dimauro, vice president for Curtis Industries. “Sheffield has a great reputation for customer service with excellent experience in our industry.”
James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner. The award recognizes a graduate who has completed post-secondary education while overcoming challenges. After being laid off from his job as a diesel mechanic at Ford, Turgeon took a risk by leaving his hometown to learn more about what he loves the most, motorcycles. As a Dream Award winner, he will receive a $2,500 scholarship to pursue advanced programs in his field of study.

James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner.
CargoGlide announced that it is the U.S. sales arm for TRUCKBOSS by Marathon Decks. The TRUCKBOSS is an all aluminum anodized truck bed deck that utilizes Capture Channel Technology, enabling adjustments to fit any fullsize pickup while allowing for the addition of accessories. CargoGlide, St. George, UT; 239-340-9605.
Infineon Raceway promoted Rachal Pollen to director of marketing. According to Infineon Raceway officials, Pollen will help oversee the planning and execution of all marketing initiatives at the raceway, including the annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and IZOD IndyCar Series race weekend. Pollen has served as senior manager of marketing for Infineon since 2006.
Federated Auto Parts has obtained the rights to the I-55 Speedway in Pevely, Missouri. According to the company, the I-55 Speedway, now known as the Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55, annually hosts some of the most competitive dirt-track races in the nation. The raceway is co-owned by longtime Federated spokesperson and dirt-track legend Ken Schrader. Federated also announced that the newly renamed raceway will host the inaugural 2012 Federated Auto Parts World of Outlaws “Ironman 55” race in August.
CRC Industries announced that the company will participate in the 2012 season of “Two Guys Garage” and “TruckU,” produced by Brenton Productions and aired on the Speed Channel. According to CRC, the shows will feature CRC products in use and on the set to promote the company’s CRC BRAKLEEN brake parts cleaner and full line of automotive maintenance products. CRC Marketing Manager Dori Ahart said, “There is a recent trend toward increased vehicle maintenance over buying new. Car and truck owners are trying to get the most out of their vehicles, and these shows help them learn how.”
SEMA News—March 2012
INDUSTRY NEWS
Fast Facts
![]() Scott Luckett, MAAP, vice president of technology standards for the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), to its Board of Trustees. |
|
AP Exhaust Technologies Inc. acquired the assets of ANSA Automotive Parts Distributors. The sale was finalized December 23, and the terms of the transaction were not disclosed. According to a release from the Marx Group Advisors—the agency that brokered the sale—all assets of ANSA, including inventory, were sold to AP Exhaust and have been relocated from ANSA in Macon, Georgia, to AP Exhaust’s headquarters in Goldsboro, North Carolina. AP Exhaust Technologies, 919-580-2000.
Crane Cams announced that it has moved to an expanded facility in Daytona Beach, Florida. The new facility is located at 1830 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach, FL 32117. “The new Holsonback facility provides us with the space and foundation we need to support our growth projections for the next five years,” says Crane Cams President, Sean Holly. In addition, the new facility allows the company to consolidate the two Crane Cams Valve Train and Crane Cams Ignition manufacturing in one location, according to the company. Crane Cams, Daytona Beach, FL; 866-388-5120.
Mile Marker Inc. announced that Wade Cobb joined the company as national sales manager. He will be responsible for overseeing the company’s entire outside sales force and product promotion to help increase sales. According to Mile Marker, Cobb has been a partner with Hapco for several years while representing the company’s product line in the past. Mile Marker, Pompano Beach, FL; 954-782-0604.
![]() A 1969 Meyers Manx Dune Buggy that came to Mid America Motorworks with original certification will be on display at Funfest for Air-Cooled VW 2012, June 1–3, at Mid America Motorworks’ corporate campus in Effingham, Illinois. |
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Kahn Media announced that it was selected by B&M Automotive Group to assist with public relations and communications, including targeted outreach, social media marketing and special projects. The B&M Automotive Group includes high-performance brands B&M Racing & Performance, Flowmaster Exhaust, Hurst Shifters and Hurst Driveline Conversions. Kahn Media, Reseda, CA; 818-881-5246. B&M Automotive Group, Chatsworth, CA; 818-882-6422.
Speedway Motors has partnered with Lucas Oil and the Speedway Motors Big Rig to showcase Lucas Oil lubricants and additives at events across the country. The first stop for the Speedway Motors Big Rig was the Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Midget Nationals in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Speedway Motors Inc., Lincoln, NE; 402-323-3244.
Clean Seal Inc. and Uni-Grip Inc. are celebrating the 20-year partnership between the companies that has resulted in a full line of grip seal products for the recreational vehicle, truck, bus and marine industries. Bill Dawson, vice president and general manager of Clean Seal Inc. said, “We are extremely pleased with our relationship with Uni-Grip and look forward to many more years of partnership in the future.” Clean Seal Inc., South Bend, IN; 574-299-1888.
Akebono Brake Corp. partnered with ExtremeWrench to offer reward points to independent repair shops through the ExtremeWrench rewards portal. Akebono will offer rewards for scanning the barcodes on the company’s complete line of brake pads, brake drums and calipers. Reward points can be redeemed for trips, merchandise, technical training and other prizes offered by ExtremeWrench. Akebono Brake Corp., Elizabethtown, KY; 270-234-5500.
The following new hires were announced by Tire Group International: Enrique Goudie, a 20-year veteran of the tire industry, joined the company’s international team as senior category manager; Sherko Hajrasouli joined the company as its territory manager for the Middle East; Alejandra Troconis was hired as senior marketing manager; David Morris was added to the domestic team as domestic commercial manager; and Emilio Perez Jr. joined the company as territory manager for Palm Beach County.
Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season. In addition to driving, Tack will also help train on-deck driver JR Adams. Tack’s record behind the wheel of Team Bigfoot’s truck includes capturing his first championship in 2000, the inaugural ProMT title, and Monster Nationals championships in 2002 and 2003. After his retirement from driving in 2003, Tack got behind the wheel of BIGFOOT again in 2010 at the Pontiac Silverdome.

Team BIGFOOT has called on veteran driver Eric Tack to pilot the monster truck for the 2012 season.
Katzkin Leather Inc. signed a sponsorship agreement with automotive TV series “Motorz.” Based in San Diego, “Motorz” will showcase Katzkin’s custom leather interiors and their installation as part of its hands-on, “how-to” TV series. Chris Duke, “Motorz” host and producer said, “Katzkin is not only the most respected leather seat interior manufacturer, they are also being used by the automotive manufacturers themselves as upgrades in many of their most popular vehicles.” New episodes of “Motorz” air on Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. (PST) on DirecTV or DISH Network. Episodes are also available at www.motorz.tv. Katzkin Leather Inc., Montebello, CA; 404-386-3609.
Curtis Industries LLC signed an installment financing agreement with Sheffield Financial, a subsidiary of BB&T, effective September 1, 2011 through March 31, 2012. The agreement provides consumer financing to customers purchasing Sno-Pro snow and ice control products through authorized Sno-Pro and Curtis dealers, including truck and UTV plows, spreaders and loader blades. “We are very happy to offer consumer financing to our customers through our national dealer network,” said Thomas Dimauro, vice president for Curtis Industries. “Sheffield has a great reputation for customer service with excellent experience in our industry.”
James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner. The award recognizes a graduate who has completed post-secondary education while overcoming challenges. After being laid off from his job as a diesel mechanic at Ford, Turgeon took a risk by leaving his hometown to learn more about what he loves the most, motorcycles. As a Dream Award winner, he will receive a $2,500 scholarship to pursue advanced programs in his field of study.

James Turgeon, a graduate from the Motorcycle Technology program at WyoTech-Daytona, was selected as the 2011 WyoTech Dream Award winner.
CargoGlide announced that it is the U.S. sales arm for TRUCKBOSS by Marathon Decks. The TRUCKBOSS is an all aluminum anodized truck bed deck that utilizes Capture Channel Technology, enabling adjustments to fit any fullsize pickup while allowing for the addition of accessories. CargoGlide, St. George, UT; 239-340-9605.
Infineon Raceway promoted Rachal Pollen to director of marketing. According to Infineon Raceway officials, Pollen will help oversee the planning and execution of all marketing initiatives at the raceway, including the annual NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and IZOD IndyCar Series race weekend. Pollen has served as senior manager of marketing for Infineon since 2006.
Federated Auto Parts has obtained the rights to the I-55 Speedway in Pevely, Missouri. According to the company, the I-55 Speedway, now known as the Federated Auto Parts Raceway at I-55, annually hosts some of the most competitive dirt-track races in the nation. The raceway is co-owned by longtime Federated spokesperson and dirt-track legend Ken Schrader. Federated also announced that the newly renamed raceway will host the inaugural 2012 Federated Auto Parts World of Outlaws “Ironman 55” race in August.
CRC Industries announced that the company will participate in the 2012 season of “Two Guys Garage” and “TruckU,” produced by Brenton Productions and aired on the Speed Channel. According to CRC, the shows will feature CRC products in use and on the set to promote the company’s CRC BRAKLEEN brake parts cleaner and full line of automotive maintenance products. CRC Marketing Manager Dori Ahart said, “There is a recent trend toward increased vehicle maintenance over buying new. Car and truck owners are trying to get the most out of their vehicles, and these shows help them learn how.”
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DRIVERS PREPARE FOR TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS AND TRADITIONAL EAST COAST OPENER: With two races already in the record books for 2012, the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville, Florida, for the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com, March 8–11—the traditional first stop of the season on the East Coast and the season-opening race for the Pro Stock Motorcycle category. Top Fuel points leader Antron Brown looks to continue his string of consecutive final-round appearances and perhaps earn his first win at the historic track. In his 14 years of competition in both the Top Fuel and Pro Stock Motorcycle classes, Brown has raced to two final-round appearances at Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville, but never a win. Respective Funny Car and Pro Stock points leaders Mike Neff and Greg Anderson also hope to keep their final-round streaks alive for 2012. Neff enters the event as the defending race winner, and Anderson looks to race to his third Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals title. Anderson lost in the final round in 2011 to teammate and eventual Pro Stock world champion Jason Line. For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE CLASS PREPARES FOR SEASON-OPENING RACE AT TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS:
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| Eddie Krawiec |
Hector Arana Jr. |
Matt Smith |
While the Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock classes will be making their third stops of the season at historic Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville (Florida), the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com has always been the traditional season opener for the Pro Stock Motorcycle class. Riders in the two-wheel class will get their first taste of 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing when they hit the track at more than 190 mph. None is more prepared than defending world champion Eddie Krawiec, who hopes to start his season off right by racing to his third consecutive Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals win.
Krawiec’s 2011 victory was the beginning of a season in which he scored four wins in seven final-round appearances and three No. 1 qualifiers en route to his second NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle world championship. 2011 second-place finisher and Auto Club Road to the Future Award winner Hector Arana Jr. will be one of the top competitors in the two-wheel class hoping to take the title from Krawiec. Arana will be joined by a slew of competitive riders, including his father—a former world champion—as well as former world titlists Matt Smith, Andrew Hines and LE Tonglet, fan favorite Karen Stoffer, and notable rookie riders Anne Hansen, John Hall and Scotty Pollacheck. For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.
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NAPAFILTERS.COM NAMED PRESENTING SPONSOR OF TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS: NAPAFilters.com has joined the NHRA as presenting sponsor of the 43rd annual Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville March 8–11. NAPA Filters set the standard for filtration quality in 1966, and now with the launch of its all-new NAPAFilters.com, NAPA Filters is raising the bar by creating a comprehensive product information and instructional website. Designed for do-it-yourself and do-it-for-me customers as well as for those who purchase a wide range of heavy-duty and industrial filters, NAPAFilters.com is dedicated to keeping all kinds of vehicles and equipment running at peak performance.
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MAC TOOLS ANNOUNCES MULTIYEAR PRIMARY SPONSORSHIP DEAL WITH KALITTA MOTORSPORTS: Mac Tools—a hand-tools manufacturer—plans to return as a primary sponsor of the Doug Kalitta-driven Kalitta Motorsports Top Fuel dragster. The partnership will begin at the 2012 Mac Tools U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis and run through the remainder of the 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and continue through the 2013 and 2014 racing seasons. The company made the announcement last weekend at its annual sales conference—the Mac Tools Tool Fair. Mac Tools distributors and their families were on hand to show their support as Brett Shaw, president of Mac Tools, made the announcement at the kickoff meeting for the Mac Tools Tool Fair.
NHRA SCREAMIN’ EAGLE NITRO HARLEY-DAVIDSONS TO BE FEATURED AT LAS VEGAS, BRISTOL EVENTS: The always-entertaining NHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley-Davidson exhibitions will be featured at two NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events in 2012, the SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, March 30–April 1 and the Ford NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers in Bristol, Tennessee, June 15–17. The NHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley-Davidson exhibitions will feature eight-bike fields and will be showcased on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of each race weekend. The high-powered, nitromethane-fueled Nitro Harleys can reach speeds of more than 200 mph and are always a huge hit with fans. To purchase tickets for the 13th annual SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals, March 30–April 1, or for more information, call Las Vegas Motor Speedway, 702-644-4444, or log on to www.LVMS.com.
For tickets for the 12th annual Ford NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers, June 15–17, log on to www.bristoldragway.com or call 423-989-6900.
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NEW JERSEY AFRICAN-AMERICAN CHAMBER BESTOWS HONOR ON BROWN: On a weekend when Antron Brown was winning his 32nd NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series national event in Phoenix, his father and brother were on the other side of the country accepting an award that meant as much to him as the Wally he received at the track. The 35-year-old native of Chesterfield, New Jersey, was honored Saturday night, February 18, at the second annual Circle of Achievement Awards Gala in New Brunswick, New Jersey, by the African-American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey Inc. for contributions to the community and accomplishments as an athlete. Brown, who lives near Indianapolis with his wife, Billie Jo, and their three children, has won 16 titles in Top Fuel and 16 in Pro Stock Motorcycle.
The African-American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey is dedicated to economically empowering and sustaining African-American communities through entrepreneurship and capitalistic activities in New Jersey and via interaction with the National Black Chamber of Commerce Inc. Others receiving the honor at the Hyatt Regency were Dr. George A. Pruitt, president, Thomas Edison State College; Paula Dow, New Jersey attorney general; and Fredrick S. Humphries Jr., vice president, U.S. Government Affairs, Microsoft Corp.
COMING ATTRACTIONS
TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS PRESENTED BY NAPAFILTERS.COM, AUTO-PLUS RACEWAY AT GAINESVILLE, March 8–11: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to historic Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville for the third stop of the series and season-opening race for the Pro Stock Motorcycle category. Winners from 2011 are Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Mike Neff (Funny Car), Jason Line (Pro Stock) and Eddie Krawiec (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com. For media credentials, contact Senior Communications Manager Scott Smith at ssmith@nhra.com.
SUMMITRACING.COM NHRA NATIONALS, THE STRIP AT LAS VEGAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY, March 30–April 1: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its first of two stops of the season in Sin City for the fourth race of the season. Defending event winners are Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Robert Hight (Funny Car) and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-644-4444 or log on to www.LVMS.com. For media credentials, contact Media Relations Manager Zak Elcock at zelcock@nhra.com.
NHRA FOUR-WIDE NATIONALS, zMAX DRAGWAY, April 13–15: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its first of two stops of the season in Charlotte, North Carolina, for the only four-wide national event. Winners from 2011 are Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Jack Beckman (Funny Car) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-455-FANS (3267) or log on to charlottemotorspeedway.com. For media credentials, contact Media Relations Manager Alex Baca at abaca@nhra.com.
| HE SAID, SHE SAID | INSIDE THE NUMBERS | ||
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![]() Pro Stock driver Jason Line has won the past three Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com. |
6/8: The Pro Stock KB Racing duo of Greg Anderson and Jason Line has won six of the last eight Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com titles.
Only two other drivers, Jeg Coughlin and Tom Martino, have won the race since 2004. Line is hoping to win his fourth consecutive Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals title when the series heads to Gainesville next week. |
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| NEVER ENOUGH TIME: Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Hector Arana on preparing himself and his son Hector Jr. for competition at the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com—the season-opening race for the Pro Stock Motorcycle class: “Right now, we are way behind schedule. I wish we had two more weeks. But the first race of the year is always the hardest one, getting all the ducks in line and ready. We have plenty to do, but I am looking forward to it. I always have.” |
Below are the drivers and when they’ve won:
| Jason Line: 2011 Line: 2010 |
Line: 2009
Jeg Coughlin: 2008 |
Greg Anderson: 2007 Tom Martino: 2006 |
Line: 2005 Anderson: 2004 |
|
DID YOU KNOW
… that NHRA drivers Matt Hagan, Bob Tasca, Jack Beckman, Bob Vandergriff, Hillary Will, Leah Pruett and Cassie Simonton will team up with the Harlem Globetrotters when the team visits Gainesville, Florida, March 7, in advance of the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com, March 8–11, at Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville. The drivers will be featured during the game at the nearby Stephen C. O’Connell Center and take part in a jersey swap with the Harlem Globetrotters and other exciting game activities. The NHRA will offer a special ticket discount to those who attend the Globetrotters game and want to attend the weekend’s event at Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville. Simply present your Harlem Globetrotters ticket stub at the Auto-Plus Raceway gate and receive $5 off admission. For more information, log on to NHRA.com.
![]() |
DRIVERS PREPARE FOR TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS AND TRADITIONAL EAST COAST OPENER: With two races already in the record books for 2012, the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville, Florida, for the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com, March 8–11—the traditional first stop of the season on the East Coast and the season-opening race for the Pro Stock Motorcycle category. Top Fuel points leader Antron Brown looks to continue his string of consecutive final-round appearances and perhaps earn his first win at the historic track. In his 14 years of competition in both the Top Fuel and Pro Stock Motorcycle classes, Brown has raced to two final-round appearances at Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville, but never a win. Respective Funny Car and Pro Stock points leaders Mike Neff and Greg Anderson also hope to keep their final-round streaks alive for 2012. Neff enters the event as the defending race winner, and Anderson looks to race to his third Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals title. Anderson lost in the final round in 2011 to teammate and eventual Pro Stock world champion Jason Line. For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE CLASS PREPARES FOR SEASON-OPENING RACE AT TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS:
![]() |
![]() |
|
|
| Eddie Krawiec |
Hector Arana Jr. |
Matt Smith |
While the Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock classes will be making their third stops of the season at historic Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville (Florida), the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com has always been the traditional season opener for the Pro Stock Motorcycle class. Riders in the two-wheel class will get their first taste of 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing when they hit the track at more than 190 mph. None is more prepared than defending world champion Eddie Krawiec, who hopes to start his season off right by racing to his third consecutive Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals win.
Krawiec’s 2011 victory was the beginning of a season in which he scored four wins in seven final-round appearances and three No. 1 qualifiers en route to his second NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle world championship. 2011 second-place finisher and Auto Club Road to the Future Award winner Hector Arana Jr. will be one of the top competitors in the two-wheel class hoping to take the title from Krawiec. Arana will be joined by a slew of competitive riders, including his father—a former world champion—as well as former world titlists Matt Smith, Andrew Hines and LE Tonglet, fan favorite Karen Stoffer, and notable rookie riders Anne Hansen, John Hall and Scotty Pollacheck. For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.
![]() |
NAPAFILTERS.COM NAMED PRESENTING SPONSOR OF TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS: NAPAFilters.com has joined the NHRA as presenting sponsor of the 43rd annual Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville March 8–11. NAPA Filters set the standard for filtration quality in 1966, and now with the launch of its all-new NAPAFilters.com, NAPA Filters is raising the bar by creating a comprehensive product information and instructional website. Designed for do-it-yourself and do-it-for-me customers as well as for those who purchase a wide range of heavy-duty and industrial filters, NAPAFilters.com is dedicated to keeping all kinds of vehicles and equipment running at peak performance.
![]() |
MAC TOOLS ANNOUNCES MULTIYEAR PRIMARY SPONSORSHIP DEAL WITH KALITTA MOTORSPORTS: Mac Tools—a hand-tools manufacturer—plans to return as a primary sponsor of the Doug Kalitta-driven Kalitta Motorsports Top Fuel dragster. The partnership will begin at the 2012 Mac Tools U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis and run through the remainder of the 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and continue through the 2013 and 2014 racing seasons. The company made the announcement last weekend at its annual sales conference—the Mac Tools Tool Fair. Mac Tools distributors and their families were on hand to show their support as Brett Shaw, president of Mac Tools, made the announcement at the kickoff meeting for the Mac Tools Tool Fair.
NHRA SCREAMIN’ EAGLE NITRO HARLEY-DAVIDSONS TO BE FEATURED AT LAS VEGAS, BRISTOL EVENTS: The always-entertaining NHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley-Davidson exhibitions will be featured at two NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events in 2012, the SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, March 30–April 1 and the Ford NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers in Bristol, Tennessee, June 15–17. The NHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley-Davidson exhibitions will feature eight-bike fields and will be showcased on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of each race weekend. The high-powered, nitromethane-fueled Nitro Harleys can reach speeds of more than 200 mph and are always a huge hit with fans. To purchase tickets for the 13th annual SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals, March 30–April 1, or for more information, call Las Vegas Motor Speedway, 702-644-4444, or log on to www.LVMS.com.
For tickets for the 12th annual Ford NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers, June 15–17, log on to www.bristoldragway.com or call 423-989-6900.
|
NEW JERSEY AFRICAN-AMERICAN CHAMBER BESTOWS HONOR ON BROWN: On a weekend when Antron Brown was winning his 32nd NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series national event in Phoenix, his father and brother were on the other side of the country accepting an award that meant as much to him as the Wally he received at the track. The 35-year-old native of Chesterfield, New Jersey, was honored Saturday night, February 18, at the second annual Circle of Achievement Awards Gala in New Brunswick, New Jersey, by the African-American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey Inc. for contributions to the community and accomplishments as an athlete. Brown, who lives near Indianapolis with his wife, Billie Jo, and their three children, has won 16 titles in Top Fuel and 16 in Pro Stock Motorcycle.
The African-American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey is dedicated to economically empowering and sustaining African-American communities through entrepreneurship and capitalistic activities in New Jersey and via interaction with the National Black Chamber of Commerce Inc. Others receiving the honor at the Hyatt Regency were Dr. George A. Pruitt, president, Thomas Edison State College; Paula Dow, New Jersey attorney general; and Fredrick S. Humphries Jr., vice president, U.S. Government Affairs, Microsoft Corp.
COMING ATTRACTIONS
TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS PRESENTED BY NAPAFILTERS.COM, AUTO-PLUS RACEWAY AT GAINESVILLE, March 8–11: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to historic Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville for the third stop of the series and season-opening race for the Pro Stock Motorcycle category. Winners from 2011 are Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Mike Neff (Funny Car), Jason Line (Pro Stock) and Eddie Krawiec (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com. For media credentials, contact Senior Communications Manager Scott Smith at ssmith@nhra.com.
SUMMITRACING.COM NHRA NATIONALS, THE STRIP AT LAS VEGAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY, March 30–April 1: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its first of two stops of the season in Sin City for the fourth race of the season. Defending event winners are Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Robert Hight (Funny Car) and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-644-4444 or log on to www.LVMS.com. For media credentials, contact Media Relations Manager Zak Elcock at zelcock@nhra.com.
NHRA FOUR-WIDE NATIONALS, zMAX DRAGWAY, April 13–15: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its first of two stops of the season in Charlotte, North Carolina, for the only four-wide national event. Winners from 2011 are Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Jack Beckman (Funny Car) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-455-FANS (3267) or log on to charlottemotorspeedway.com. For media credentials, contact Media Relations Manager Alex Baca at abaca@nhra.com.
| HE SAID, SHE SAID | INSIDE THE NUMBERS | ||
![]() |
![]() Pro Stock driver Jason Line has won the past three Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com. |
6/8: The Pro Stock KB Racing duo of Greg Anderson and Jason Line has won six of the last eight Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com titles.
Only two other drivers, Jeg Coughlin and Tom Martino, have won the race since 2004. Line is hoping to win his fourth consecutive Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals title when the series heads to Gainesville next week. |
|
| NEVER ENOUGH TIME: Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Hector Arana on preparing himself and his son Hector Jr. for competition at the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com—the season-opening race for the Pro Stock Motorcycle class: “Right now, we are way behind schedule. I wish we had two more weeks. But the first race of the year is always the hardest one, getting all the ducks in line and ready. We have plenty to do, but I am looking forward to it. I always have.” |
Below are the drivers and when they’ve won:
| Jason Line: 2011 Line: 2010 |
Line: 2009
Jeg Coughlin: 2008 |
Greg Anderson: 2007 Tom Martino: 2006 |
Line: 2005 Anderson: 2004 |
|
DID YOU KNOW
… that NHRA drivers Matt Hagan, Bob Tasca, Jack Beckman, Bob Vandergriff, Hillary Will, Leah Pruett and Cassie Simonton will team up with the Harlem Globetrotters when the team visits Gainesville, Florida, March 7, in advance of the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com, March 8–11, at Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville. The drivers will be featured during the game at the nearby Stephen C. O’Connell Center and take part in a jersey swap with the Harlem Globetrotters and other exciting game activities. The NHRA will offer a special ticket discount to those who attend the Globetrotters game and want to attend the weekend’s event at Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville. Simply present your Harlem Globetrotters ticket stub at the Auto-Plus Raceway gate and receive $5 off admission. For more information, log on to NHRA.com.
![]() |
DRIVERS PREPARE FOR TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS AND TRADITIONAL EAST COAST OPENER: With two races already in the record books for 2012, the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville, Florida, for the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com, March 8–11—the traditional first stop of the season on the East Coast and the season-opening race for the Pro Stock Motorcycle category. Top Fuel points leader Antron Brown looks to continue his string of consecutive final-round appearances and perhaps earn his first win at the historic track. In his 14 years of competition in both the Top Fuel and Pro Stock Motorcycle classes, Brown has raced to two final-round appearances at Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville, but never a win. Respective Funny Car and Pro Stock points leaders Mike Neff and Greg Anderson also hope to keep their final-round streaks alive for 2012. Neff enters the event as the defending race winner, and Anderson looks to race to his third Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals title. Anderson lost in the final round in 2011 to teammate and eventual Pro Stock world champion Jason Line. For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.
PRO STOCK MOTORCYCLE CLASS PREPARES FOR SEASON-OPENING RACE AT TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS:
![]() |
![]() |
|
|
| Eddie Krawiec |
Hector Arana Jr. |
Matt Smith |
While the Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock classes will be making their third stops of the season at historic Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville (Florida), the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com has always been the traditional season opener for the Pro Stock Motorcycle class. Riders in the two-wheel class will get their first taste of 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing when they hit the track at more than 190 mph. None is more prepared than defending world champion Eddie Krawiec, who hopes to start his season off right by racing to his third consecutive Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals win.
Krawiec’s 2011 victory was the beginning of a season in which he scored four wins in seven final-round appearances and three No. 1 qualifiers en route to his second NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle world championship. 2011 second-place finisher and Auto Club Road to the Future Award winner Hector Arana Jr. will be one of the top competitors in the two-wheel class hoping to take the title from Krawiec. Arana will be joined by a slew of competitive riders, including his father—a former world champion—as well as former world titlists Matt Smith, Andrew Hines and LE Tonglet, fan favorite Karen Stoffer, and notable rookie riders Anne Hansen, John Hall and Scotty Pollacheck. For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com.
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NAPAFILTERS.COM NAMED PRESENTING SPONSOR OF TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS: NAPAFilters.com has joined the NHRA as presenting sponsor of the 43rd annual Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville March 8–11. NAPA Filters set the standard for filtration quality in 1966, and now with the launch of its all-new NAPAFilters.com, NAPA Filters is raising the bar by creating a comprehensive product information and instructional website. Designed for do-it-yourself and do-it-for-me customers as well as for those who purchase a wide range of heavy-duty and industrial filters, NAPAFilters.com is dedicated to keeping all kinds of vehicles and equipment running at peak performance.
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MAC TOOLS ANNOUNCES MULTIYEAR PRIMARY SPONSORSHIP DEAL WITH KALITTA MOTORSPORTS: Mac Tools—a hand-tools manufacturer—plans to return as a primary sponsor of the Doug Kalitta-driven Kalitta Motorsports Top Fuel dragster. The partnership will begin at the 2012 Mac Tools U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis and run through the remainder of the 2012 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and continue through the 2013 and 2014 racing seasons. The company made the announcement last weekend at its annual sales conference—the Mac Tools Tool Fair. Mac Tools distributors and their families were on hand to show their support as Brett Shaw, president of Mac Tools, made the announcement at the kickoff meeting for the Mac Tools Tool Fair.
NHRA SCREAMIN’ EAGLE NITRO HARLEY-DAVIDSONS TO BE FEATURED AT LAS VEGAS, BRISTOL EVENTS: The always-entertaining NHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley-Davidson exhibitions will be featured at two NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events in 2012, the SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, March 30–April 1 and the Ford NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers in Bristol, Tennessee, June 15–17. The NHRA Screamin’ Eagle Nitro Harley-Davidson exhibitions will feature eight-bike fields and will be showcased on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of each race weekend. The high-powered, nitromethane-fueled Nitro Harleys can reach speeds of more than 200 mph and are always a huge hit with fans. To purchase tickets for the 13th annual SummitRacing.com NHRA Nationals, March 30–April 1, or for more information, call Las Vegas Motor Speedway, 702-644-4444, or log on to www.LVMS.com.
For tickets for the 12th annual Ford NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers, June 15–17, log on to www.bristoldragway.com or call 423-989-6900.
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NEW JERSEY AFRICAN-AMERICAN CHAMBER BESTOWS HONOR ON BROWN: On a weekend when Antron Brown was winning his 32nd NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series national event in Phoenix, his father and brother were on the other side of the country accepting an award that meant as much to him as the Wally he received at the track. The 35-year-old native of Chesterfield, New Jersey, was honored Saturday night, February 18, at the second annual Circle of Achievement Awards Gala in New Brunswick, New Jersey, by the African-American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey Inc. for contributions to the community and accomplishments as an athlete. Brown, who lives near Indianapolis with his wife, Billie Jo, and their three children, has won 16 titles in Top Fuel and 16 in Pro Stock Motorcycle.
The African-American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey is dedicated to economically empowering and sustaining African-American communities through entrepreneurship and capitalistic activities in New Jersey and via interaction with the National Black Chamber of Commerce Inc. Others receiving the honor at the Hyatt Regency were Dr. George A. Pruitt, president, Thomas Edison State College; Paula Dow, New Jersey attorney general; and Fredrick S. Humphries Jr., vice president, U.S. Government Affairs, Microsoft Corp.
COMING ATTRACTIONS
TIRE KINGDOM NHRA GATORNATIONALS PRESENTED BY NAPAFILTERS.COM, AUTO-PLUS RACEWAY AT GAINESVILLE, March 8–11: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series heads to historic Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville for the third stop of the series and season-opening race for the Pro Stock Motorcycle category. Winners from 2011 are Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Mike Neff (Funny Car), Jason Line (Pro Stock) and Eddie Krawiec (Pro Stock Motorcycle). For tickets, call 800-884-NHRA (6472) or log on to NHRATix.com. For media credentials, contact Senior Communications Manager Scott Smith at ssmith@nhra.com.
SUMMITRACING.COM NHRA NATIONALS, THE STRIP AT LAS VEGAS MOTOR SPEEDWAY, March 30–April 1: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its first of two stops of the season in Sin City for the fourth race of the season. Defending event winners are Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Robert Hight (Funny Car) and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-644-4444 or log on to www.LVMS.com. For media credentials, contact Media Relations Manager Zak Elcock at zelcock@nhra.com.
NHRA FOUR-WIDE NATIONALS, zMAX DRAGWAY, April 13–15: The NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series makes its first of two stops of the season in Charlotte, North Carolina, for the only four-wide national event. Winners from 2011 are Del Worsham (Top Fuel), Jack Beckman (Funny Car) and Greg Anderson (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800-455-FANS (3267) or log on to charlottemotorspeedway.com. For media credentials, contact Media Relations Manager Alex Baca at abaca@nhra.com.
| HE SAID, SHE SAID | INSIDE THE NUMBERS | ||
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![]() Pro Stock driver Jason Line has won the past three Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com. |
6/8: The Pro Stock KB Racing duo of Greg Anderson and Jason Line has won six of the last eight Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com titles.
Only two other drivers, Jeg Coughlin and Tom Martino, have won the race since 2004. Line is hoping to win his fourth consecutive Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals title when the series heads to Gainesville next week. |
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| NEVER ENOUGH TIME: Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Hector Arana on preparing himself and his son Hector Jr. for competition at the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com—the season-opening race for the Pro Stock Motorcycle class: “Right now, we are way behind schedule. I wish we had two more weeks. But the first race of the year is always the hardest one, getting all the ducks in line and ready. We have plenty to do, but I am looking forward to it. I always have.” |
Below are the drivers and when they’ve won:
| Jason Line: 2011 Line: 2010 |
Line: 2009
Jeg Coughlin: 2008 |
Greg Anderson: 2007 Tom Martino: 2006 |
Line: 2005 Anderson: 2004 |
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DID YOU KNOW
… that NHRA drivers Matt Hagan, Bob Tasca, Jack Beckman, Bob Vandergriff, Hillary Will, Leah Pruett and Cassie Simonton will team up with the Harlem Globetrotters when the team visits Gainesville, Florida, March 7, in advance of the Tire Kingdom NHRA Gatornationals presented by NAPAFilters.com, March 8–11, at Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville. The drivers will be featured during the game at the nearby Stephen C. O’Connell Center and take part in a jersey swap with the Harlem Globetrotters and other exciting game activities. The NHRA will offer a special ticket discount to those who attend the Globetrotters game and want to attend the weekend’s event at Auto-Plus Raceway at Gainesville. Simply present your Harlem Globetrotters ticket stub at the Auto-Plus Raceway gate and receive $5 off admission. For more information, log on to NHRA.com.
SEMA News—March 2012
INDUSTRY NEWS
Nominations Open for SEMA Hall of Fame
![]() Nominations for the prestigious SEMA Hall of Fame are due March 16. |
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Created in 1969, the SEMA Hall of Fame is designed to honor outstanding persons in the industry who have enhanced the stature of, or significantly contributed to, the industry and/or the association’s growth.
To submit your nomination, contact Arlene Wood at 909-978-6689.
The 2011 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees were Art Chrisman, Gray Baskerville, Chris Economaki and John Towle. To learn more about the SEMA Hall of Fame and for a list of inductees, visit here.
Herb “Mr. Phone” Goldstein Passes Away
![]() Known in the automotive specialty-equipment industry as “Mr. Phone,” Herb Goldstein was a creative salesman who had a long career as a manufacturers’ rep for many major companies. |
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“I worked with Herb in the mid ’60s when we were both in the wheel business,” said Chuck Blum, owner of Chuck Blum & Associates. “He was a flamboyant, aggressive salesman who put a lot of up-and-coming companies in this market on the map. He made a lot of money for many companies and will always be remembered for his contributions to this industry.”
Goldstein was always on the phone with every high-performance customer in the United States, hence his nickname. He was a powerful and creative salesman with a family background in sales. (His father, Jack, had a long career on the West Coast.) In his time, Goldstein was perhaps the best-known performance rep in the entire country and was also invested in several manufacturing enterprises.
Collector Car Appreciation Day Returns July 13
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Friday, July 13, 2012, is Collector Car Appreciation Day, a commemoration to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.
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SEMA and its councils are working to secure a congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance. The industry endeavors to preserve the nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, high-skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.
“On July 13, 2012, collectors and enthusiasts will host hundreds of events across the country,” said Laura Bergan, ARMO chairman. “We will again proudly partner with individuals, car clubs and businesses as they organize car cruises, club gatherings and other educational events to celebrate the day.”
The previous resolutions were sponsored by Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus members Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC).
Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, and the resolution reaffirmed their understanding of the cultural importance of collector cars. The caucus is an informal, non-partisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports.
SEMA will maintain and publicize a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Colby Martin at 909-978-6721 or e-mail san@SEMA.org.
Industry Veteran Earl Richey Owen Sr. Passes Away
![]() Earl Owen started Earl Owen Co. in 1952 with one sewing machine, a table and two parking spaces. |
Earl Richey Owen Sr. passed away January 14 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
He was born November 23, 1927, in Whitewright, Texas, and started Earl Owen Co. in 1952 after working at various downtown upholstery shops.
He started with one sewing machine, a table and two parking spaces. When a customer needed seats covered the next day, Owen would go to the lot, take the seat out of the car, return it to his shop, cover it, take it back to the lot, bolt it down to the vehicle, and it would be ready for the fleet the next morning.
As the business grew, Owen became interested in selling auto accessories. Today, Earl Owen Co. is one of the largest suppliers of auto and truck accessories and equipment in the southwestern United States. Despite his achievements, Owen remained humble, kind and loyal. His favorite hobby was work, and he traveled at the urging of his wife. They enjoyed more than 20 cruises and went everywhere from Hawaii to Dubai.












