Nominations for the 2011 SEMA Chairman-Elect and Board of Directors are due Thursday, January 6, 2011.

Dear SEMA Member:

As a member of the Association, we need your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the SEMA Board, but oftentimes those individuals aren’t immediately apparent to the committee that is responsible for selecting the final candidates.

This year, the SEMA elections have the additional importance in selecting our future Chairman of the Board. Please take a moment to tell us about whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for the Chairman-Elect position, and/or for a Board member position. Please include information to help the Nominating Committee know more about the qualifications of the nominees, such as background, experience and achievements from a leadership standpoint.

Nominations for the 2011 SEMA Chairman-Elect and Board of Directors are due Thursday, January 6, 2011. Please complete and submit the nomination form, and be sure to include the qualification information noted above.

Your Association is vitally important to the industry and your company. Your participation in helping to ensure strong leadership for the SEMA Board of Directors is essential.

Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Chris Kersting, CAE
SEMA President and CEO

NEWS NUGGETS

CLAPP, COHEN NAMED TO NHRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS: NHRA Chairman of the Board Dallas Gardner announced that two new members have been elected to the NHRA Board of Directors—longtime NASCAR executive Ken Clapp and high-profile Los Angeles attorney Michael C. Cohen. Clapp and Cohen will join current board members Gardner, NHRA President Tom Compton, NHRA Executive Vice President Peter Clifford and NHRA Senior Vice President of Racing Operations Graham Light.

A pioneering race promoter on the West Coast, Clapp, a native of Danville, California, has a distinguished background in motorsports and has worked in a variety of executive positions at the sport’s top levels. In the late ’60s and early ’70s, Clapp served as the vice president of marketing and public relations for the Sears Point Raceway (now Infineon Raceway), which led to a two-year stint as the director of marketing and public relations for AutoWeek magazine. In 1977, Clapp purchased 12 racetracks throughout the West and managed those facilities until he joined NASCAR in an official capacity, serving first as the stock car sanctioning body’s vice president for western operations and later as its vice president for marketing and development. Clapp retired from NASCAR in 1999, but continues to serve as a senior consultant. Two of his biggest achievements were playing a key role in the creation of Sears Point Raceway and bringing NASCAR’s marque Cup Series to the Northern California road course in 1989. His first work in the world of drag racing came in 1969 when he helped promote a Funny Car event at Sears Point.

Cohen is a partner in Morrison and Foerster LLP, a major national and international law firm. He heads the Corporate Finance Practice Group out of the firm’s Los Angeles office. He has been practicing law for more than 38 years and specializes in corporate, real estate and other business transactions with a focus on mergers and acquisitions. Cohen, whose professional experience includes auto racing and other professional sports, cable television, print media, branded apparel and professional service companies, was named a Best Lawyer in America in the field of corporate law in 2009 and 2010. Prior to joining Morrison and Foerster, Cohen was managing partner and a member of the executive committee for the Los Angeles office of Donovan, Leisure, Newton & Irvine.

GEICO EXTENDS MARKETING PARTNERSHIP WITH NHRA: GEICO, the fastest-growing auto insurance company in the United States, has extended its marketing partnership with the NHRA, officials of the world’s largest motorsports sanctioning organization announced. As part of the multiyear agreement extension, GEICO will continue to receive multiple exposure and promotional opportunities at NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events. The GEICO Trackside Team will entertain spectators during appropriate breaks in the racing action. The GEICO Gecko, the company’s popular mascot, will continue to visit the NHRA Manufacturers Midway at select events. GEICO will also continue to receive display space and have television advertising rights. GEICO will also continue to serve as primary sponsor for Morgan Lucas’ Top Fuel dragster and Karen Stoffer’s Pro Stock Motorcycle. For more information, please visit NHRA.com.

COPART INC. RENEWS AS OFFICIAL ONLINE VEHICLE AUTION OF NHRA: NHRA has announced that Copart Inc., a leading provider of vehicle auction services, will continue as the official online vehicle auction of NHRA. Copart has used NHRA’s race team hospitality platform and its affiliation with Kenny Bernstein Racing to drive buyer membership throughout the course of the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing season. As part of the multiyear agreement, Copart will continue to have a major presence at all the 22 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events in 2011 through trackside signage, public address announcements, corporate and race team hospitality and an inflatable at the top end of the race track. In addition, Copart will continue its team sponsorship of the Kenny Bernstein-owned Copart Top Fuel dragster driven by Brandon Bernstein in the NHRA Full Throttle Series. For more information, visit NHRA.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS KRAGEN O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA WINTERNATIONALS, AUTO CLUB RACEWAY AT POMONA, February 24–27, 2011: The 2011 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and 60th anniversary season of NHRA kicks off at historic Auto Club Raceway at Pomona at the 51st running of this event. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); John Force (Funny Car); and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800/844-NHRA or go online to NHRATIX.com. For media credentials, please contact Director of Public Relations Michael Padian at mpadian@nhra.com.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

BRINGING DRIVER SAFETY TO SO CAL: Top Fuel pilot and B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe) program founder Doug Herbert on a recent trip the organization made to the Southern California area to teach teen safe-driving: “It was great to be out in Southern California for schools. This year, we put almost 500 teens through the school in Pomona, and we’re saving lives. I’m so thankful for the support we’ve received from (NHRA President) Tom Compton and everyone at NHRA. Together we are making a difference.” Herbert was joined by NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series drivers Jeff Arend and Jack Beckman.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

NHRA FULL THROTTLE CHAMPS PICK BCS BOWL WINNERS: With the College Bowl season just kicking off, the world champions in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series turned in their picks for the five BCS bowl games, including the national championship game between Oregon and Auburn. Below are their picks:

Larry Dixon, Al-Anabi Racing dragster:
ROSE BOWL: Wisconsin
Reason: “It’s closer to my home than TCU.”
FIESTA BOWL: Oklahoma
Reason: “I believe that UConn used up all of their skilled athlete coupons on the men’s and women’s basketball teams.”
ORANGE BOWL: Stanford
Reason: “Because I’m a California guy, and I can’t pick USC this year…or next year for that matter.”
SUGAR BOWL: Ohio State
Reason: “Because I have a few guys on the Al-Anabi team that hail from the Buckeye State, and I wouldn’t want to hear the wrath of picking against them.”
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP BOWL: Auburn
Reason: “Because one of my all-time favorite players, Bo Jackson, went there…and Bo knows.”

John Force, Castrol GTX High-Mileage Ford Mustang:
ROSE BOWL: TCU
FIESTA BOWL: Oklahoma
ORANGE BOWL: Stanford
SUGAR BOWL: Ohio State
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP BOWL: Oregon

Greg Anderson, Summit Racing Pontiac GXP:
ROSE BOWL: Wisconsin
Reason: “Being from the Midwest, I have to go with the Big Ten Team.”
FIESTA BOWL: Oklahoma
Reason: “Oklahoma has a long and storied history of doing well in bowl games, while, to be honest and with no disrespect intended, I didn’t realize UConn had a football team of this caliber.”
ORANGE BOWL: Virginia Tech
Reason: “Although I’m not too familiar with Stanford’s team this year, I did have the chance to watch a couple Virginia Tech games and they seem to be a really good team, so that’s why I picked them.”
SUGAR BOWL: Ohio State
Reason: “Just like with the Rose Bowl, I have to go with the Big Ten team. Even though Ohio State isn’t playing for the national championship this year, that program is always one of the best in the country. Besides, Summit Racing is based in Ohio, so I’m just obliged to pick The Ohio State University.”
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP BOWL: Auburn
Reason: “For one thing, Auburn is just better. On top of that, they have the best quarterback in the game right now in Cam Newton. Finally, when you look at how they came back in their game against Alabama, you can see how they can just find ways to win.

LE Tonglet, Nitro Fish Suzuki:
ROSE BOWL: Wisconsin
FIESTA BOWL: Oklahoma
ORANGE BOWL: Stanford
SUGAR BOWL: Arkansas
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP BOWL: Auburn

DID YOU KNOW…

…that NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world champions Larry Dixon, John Force and LE Tonglet have been named finalists for the 2010 SPEED Performer of the Year? Seven-time world champion Tony Schumacher took home the award in 2009 and also finished runner-up in 2008. For more information, contact NHRA Media Relations at 626/914-4761 or visit the NHRA Media Center online.

NEWS NUGGETS

CLAPP, COHEN NAMED TO NHRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS: NHRA Chairman of the Board Dallas Gardner announced that two new members have been elected to the NHRA Board of Directors—longtime NASCAR executive Ken Clapp and high-profile Los Angeles attorney Michael C. Cohen. Clapp and Cohen will join current board members Gardner, NHRA President Tom Compton, NHRA Executive Vice President Peter Clifford and NHRA Senior Vice President of Racing Operations Graham Light.

A pioneering race promoter on the West Coast, Clapp, a native of Danville, California, has a distinguished background in motorsports and has worked in a variety of executive positions at the sport’s top levels. In the late ’60s and early ’70s, Clapp served as the vice president of marketing and public relations for the Sears Point Raceway (now Infineon Raceway), which led to a two-year stint as the director of marketing and public relations for AutoWeek magazine. In 1977, Clapp purchased 12 racetracks throughout the West and managed those facilities until he joined NASCAR in an official capacity, serving first as the stock car sanctioning body’s vice president for western operations and later as its vice president for marketing and development. Clapp retired from NASCAR in 1999, but continues to serve as a senior consultant. Two of his biggest achievements were playing a key role in the creation of Sears Point Raceway and bringing NASCAR’s marque Cup Series to the Northern California road course in 1989. His first work in the world of drag racing came in 1969 when he helped promote a Funny Car event at Sears Point.

Cohen is a partner in Morrison and Foerster LLP, a major national and international law firm. He heads the Corporate Finance Practice Group out of the firm’s Los Angeles office. He has been practicing law for more than 38 years and specializes in corporate, real estate and other business transactions with a focus on mergers and acquisitions. Cohen, whose professional experience includes auto racing and other professional sports, cable television, print media, branded apparel and professional service companies, was named a Best Lawyer in America in the field of corporate law in 2009 and 2010. Prior to joining Morrison and Foerster, Cohen was managing partner and a member of the executive committee for the Los Angeles office of Donovan, Leisure, Newton & Irvine.

GEICO EXTENDS MARKETING PARTNERSHIP WITH NHRA: GEICO, the fastest-growing auto insurance company in the United States, has extended its marketing partnership with the NHRA, officials of the world’s largest motorsports sanctioning organization announced. As part of the multiyear agreement extension, GEICO will continue to receive multiple exposure and promotional opportunities at NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events. The GEICO Trackside Team will entertain spectators during appropriate breaks in the racing action. The GEICO Gecko, the company’s popular mascot, will continue to visit the NHRA Manufacturers Midway at select events. GEICO will also continue to receive display space and have television advertising rights. GEICO will also continue to serve as primary sponsor for Morgan Lucas’ Top Fuel dragster and Karen Stoffer’s Pro Stock Motorcycle. For more information, please visit NHRA.com.

COPART INC. RENEWS AS OFFICIAL ONLINE VEHICLE AUTION OF NHRA: NHRA has announced that Copart Inc., a leading provider of vehicle auction services, will continue as the official online vehicle auction of NHRA. Copart has used NHRA’s race team hospitality platform and its affiliation with Kenny Bernstein Racing to drive buyer membership throughout the course of the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing season. As part of the multiyear agreement, Copart will continue to have a major presence at all the 22 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series events in 2011 through trackside signage, public address announcements, corporate and race team hospitality and an inflatable at the top end of the race track. In addition, Copart will continue its team sponsorship of the Kenny Bernstein-owned Copart Top Fuel dragster driven by Brandon Bernstein in the NHRA Full Throttle Series. For more information, visit NHRA.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS KRAGEN O’REILLY AUTO PARTS NHRA WINTERNATIONALS, AUTO CLUB RACEWAY AT POMONA, February 24–27, 2011: The 2011 NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series and 60th anniversary season of NHRA kicks off at historic Auto Club Raceway at Pomona at the 51st running of this event. Defending event winners include Larry Dixon (Top Fuel); John Force (Funny Car); and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock). For tickets, call 800/844-NHRA or go online to NHRATIX.com. For media credentials, please contact Director of Public Relations Michael Padian at mpadian@nhra.com.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

BRINGING DRIVER SAFETY TO SO CAL: Top Fuel pilot and B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible And Keep Everyone Safe) program founder Doug Herbert on a recent trip the organization made to the Southern California area to teach teen safe-driving: “It was great to be out in Southern California for schools. This year, we put almost 500 teens through the school in Pomona, and we’re saving lives. I’m so thankful for the support we’ve received from (NHRA President) Tom Compton and everyone at NHRA. Together we are making a difference.” Herbert was joined by NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series drivers Jeff Arend and Jack Beckman.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

NHRA FULL THROTTLE CHAMPS PICK BCS BOWL WINNERS: With the College Bowl season just kicking off, the world champions in the NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series turned in their picks for the five BCS bowl games, including the national championship game between Oregon and Auburn. Below are their picks:

Larry Dixon, Al-Anabi Racing dragster:
ROSE BOWL: Wisconsin
Reason: “It’s closer to my home than TCU.”
FIESTA BOWL: Oklahoma
Reason: “I believe that UConn used up all of their skilled athlete coupons on the men’s and women’s basketball teams.”
ORANGE BOWL: Stanford
Reason: “Because I’m a California guy, and I can’t pick USC this year…or next year for that matter.”
SUGAR BOWL: Ohio State
Reason: “Because I have a few guys on the Al-Anabi team that hail from the Buckeye State, and I wouldn’t want to hear the wrath of picking against them.”
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP BOWL: Auburn
Reason: “Because one of my all-time favorite players, Bo Jackson, went there…and Bo knows.”

John Force, Castrol GTX High-Mileage Ford Mustang:
ROSE BOWL: TCU
FIESTA BOWL: Oklahoma
ORANGE BOWL: Stanford
SUGAR BOWL: Ohio State
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP BOWL: Oregon

Greg Anderson, Summit Racing Pontiac GXP:
ROSE BOWL: Wisconsin
Reason: “Being from the Midwest, I have to go with the Big Ten Team.”
FIESTA BOWL: Oklahoma
Reason: “Oklahoma has a long and storied history of doing well in bowl games, while, to be honest and with no disrespect intended, I didn’t realize UConn had a football team of this caliber.”
ORANGE BOWL: Virginia Tech
Reason: “Although I’m not too familiar with Stanford’s team this year, I did have the chance to watch a couple Virginia Tech games and they seem to be a really good team, so that’s why I picked them.”
SUGAR BOWL: Ohio State
Reason: “Just like with the Rose Bowl, I have to go with the Big Ten team. Even though Ohio State isn’t playing for the national championship this year, that program is always one of the best in the country. Besides, Summit Racing is based in Ohio, so I’m just obliged to pick The Ohio State University.”
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP BOWL: Auburn
Reason: “For one thing, Auburn is just better. On top of that, they have the best quarterback in the game right now in Cam Newton. Finally, when you look at how they came back in their game against Alabama, you can see how they can just find ways to win.

LE Tonglet, Nitro Fish Suzuki:
ROSE BOWL: Wisconsin
FIESTA BOWL: Oklahoma
ORANGE BOWL: Stanford
SUGAR BOWL: Arkansas
BCS CHAMPIONSHIP BOWL: Auburn

DID YOU KNOW…

…that NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing Series world champions Larry Dixon, John Force and LE Tonglet have been named finalists for the 2010 SPEED Performer of the Year? Seven-time world champion Tony Schumacher took home the award in 2009 and also finished runner-up in 2008. For more information, contact NHRA Media Relations at 626/914-4761 or visit the NHRA Media Center online.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has set the standard business-mileage deduction at $.51 per mile for 2011. The rate is $.01 more than allowed during 2010, reflecting slightly higher transportation costs during the past year. The mileage calculation includes the cost of fuel along with other vehicle fixed and variable operating expenses, such as depreciation, insurance, tires, etc. Companies and individuals who use their automobiles (including vans, pickups and panel trucks) for business have the option of using the standard rate in lieu of keeping records of their actual expenses. For details, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has set the standard business-mileage deduction at $.51 per mile for 2011. The rate is $.01 more than allowed during 2010, reflecting slightly higher transportation costs during the past year. The mileage calculation includes the cost of fuel along with other vehicle fixed and variable operating expenses, such as depreciation, insurance, tires, etc. Companies and individuals who use their automobiles (including vans, pickups and panel trucks) for business have the option of using the standard rate in lieu of keeping records of their actual expenses. For details, contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

The United States Senate approved the tax compromise “framework” for a two-year extension of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts for all income levels, set to expire on December 31. The House of Representatives now must approve the legislation before it can be sent to President Obama to become law. The compromise, reached by the president and congressional republicans, includes a retroactive extension of the research and development tax credit through 2011, a two-year reinstatement of the estate tax at 35% after the first $5 million, a 100% write-off on capital expenses for businesses during 2011 (up from 50%) and a one-year reduction in the worker’s social security payroll tax from 6.2% to 4.2%.

Click here for a detailed overview of tax provisions important to SEMA member companies.

Unfortunately, the Senate missed yet another opportunity to repeal the costly 1099 reporting requirement from the health care law that was included as a revenue-raising provision within the health care law. The rule will require businesses to issue 1099 reporting forms to all vendors from whom they buy more than $600 worth of goods or services in any year, beginning in 2012. SEMA will continue to urge Congress to repeal the rule before it takes effect. 

SEMA sent a letter of support to House and Senate members urging Congress to act quickly to enact the tax relief program. SEMA maintains that this important legislation will have a positive and noticeable impact on the economy and will provide many of the necessary tools for small businesses to remain the most important force in driving America’s economic recovery. For more information on these new developments, please contact Dan Sadowski, congressional affairs manager, at dans@sema.org.

The United States Senate approved the tax compromise “framework” for a two-year extension of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts for all income levels, set to expire on December 31. The House of Representatives now must approve the legislation before it can be sent to President Obama to become law. The compromise, reached by the president and congressional republicans, includes a retroactive extension of the research and development tax credit through 2011, a two-year reinstatement of the estate tax at 35% after the first $5 million, a 100% write-off on capital expenses for businesses during 2011 (up from 50%) and a one-year reduction in the worker’s social security payroll tax from 6.2% to 4.2%.

Click here for a detailed overview of tax provisions important to SEMA member companies.

Unfortunately, the Senate missed yet another opportunity to repeal the costly 1099 reporting requirement from the health care law that was included as a revenue-raising provision within the health care law. The rule will require businesses to issue 1099 reporting forms to all vendors from whom they buy more than $600 worth of goods or services in any year, beginning in 2012. SEMA will continue to urge Congress to repeal the rule before it takes effect. 

SEMA sent a letter of support to House and Senate members urging Congress to act quickly to enact the tax relief program. SEMA maintains that this important legislation will have a positive and noticeable impact on the economy and will provide many of the necessary tools for small businesses to remain the most important force in driving America’s economic recovery. For more information on these new developments, please contact Dan Sadowski, congressional affairs manager, at dans@sema.org.

Visit MPMC's website.

Media Registration Now Open

Media may now register for the 2011 MPMC Media Trade Conference. The online registration form is available here. The 14th annual MPMC Media Trade Conference takes place on January 25–27, 2011, at the Embassy Suites LAX South in El Segundo, California. Media attendees may attend as many as 42 pre-scheduled meetings with MPMC-member manufacturers over the three-day event. Attendance is free to media and lunch is provided each day along with a media reception on Tuesday evening of the event.

SAVE THE DATE! MPMC Long-Range Planning

The MPMC Long-Range Planning meeting will take place on Monday, January 24, 2011, at the Embassy Suites LAX South, in El Segundo, California, in conjunction with the 2011 Media Trade Conference. This will be an afternoon meeting, so that exhibitors arriving on Monday morning for the Media Trade Conference may attend. Exact times and room location will be announced shortly. The LRP is open to all MPMC members, not just Media Trade Conference exhibitors.

“We traditionally hold this meeting on the Friday after the Trade Conference, but it ends up being a Trade Conference debriefing,” said Fickler. “And many exhibitors fly out on Friday morning anyway. We want to try it on Monday this year and concentrate on long-range planning. We’re hoping that more exhibitors can attend with this arrangement, since they all arrive on Sunday or Monday anyway.”

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MPMC Is!

Be sure to follow MPMC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mpmc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

Take a Friend to a Race Fan Page

The MPMC Motorsports Awareness campaign, highlighted by the Take a Friend to a Race program, now has its very own Fanpage on Facebook. If you’re not a fan yet, you should be!



MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.



For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Long-Range Planning Meeting

Mark your calendar for the annual ARMO Long-Range Planning Meeting, Wednesday, March 16, 2011, in Indianapolis. This is the Wednesday of Hotrod & Restoration Show week in Indianapolis. ARMO hopes that many members who are already planning to attend the show will find it convenient to add one more day to their itinerary in order to attend this very important meeting. Exact times and location coming soon, watch SEMA eNews and the ARMO website for updates.

ARMO Seminars at Hotrod & Restoration Show

ARMO will once again host two seminars on Saturday, March 19, 2011, at the Hotrod & Restoration Show. “The Art of Selling” (presented by Dick Dixon) and “How the Internet Can Improve Your Business” will be the topics. Exact times and locations to be announced, but mark your calendar and stay tuned to SEMA eNews and the ARMO website for updates.

ARMO Presents Industry Awards at Annual Reception

ARMO presented its Industry Awards at its annual reception in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel during the 2010 SEMA Show.

Dennis Gage, host of the popular television show “My Classic Car” and longtime restoration enthusiast, emceed the event, which featured some of the top companies involved in the restoration industry.

ARMO congratulates the following award winners:

• 2010 Restoration Event of the Year: Year One’s Chip Foose Braselton Bash
• 2010 ARMO Business of the Year: Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists
• 2010 Person of the Year: Jim Barber
• 2010 ARMO Hall of Fame Inductee: Jeff Leonard of Classic Industries
• 2010 ARMO Hall of Fame Inductee: Doug Evans of Source Interlink Media

Thank you ARMO Sponsors!

The annual reception is only possible each year through the help of ARMO's sponsoring companies. The council extends thanks to the following sponsors of the 2010 ARMO Industry Awards Reception.

• American Autowire
• Auto Custom Carpet
• Auto Trader Classics
• Bryn Dana International (Color Bond)
• Carlisle Events
• Classic Industries
• Dynacorn Classic Bodies
• Hagerty Insurance
• Hemmings Motor News
• Parts Unlimited Interiors
• Source Interlink Media
• Steele Rubber Products
• TrimParts

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? ARMO Is!

Be sure to follow ARMO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/armo and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit HRIA's website

Save the Date: February 25, 2011. Location: Cobo Center – Detroit

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance will be hosting its Annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with Championship Auto Shows Detroit Autorama, taking place February 25–27, 2011.

Enjoy this great show and participate in the one meeting that does the most to drive industry issues. The Hot Rod Industry Alliance will open its doors to any interested party who wants to make a difference. If you have a question, concern, idea or just want a better understanding of how the process works, get off the sidelines and join the cause! The HRIA is here to serve your business and our industry but cannot do it without your help. To learn more and get involved, visit www.sema.org/hria or call Zane Clark at 909/978-6696.

Have You Registered a Patent or Trademark? Your Competition Has.

Protecting the intellectual property rights (IPR) of its members is a top SEMA priority. The process begins when companies register their patents, trademarks and copyrights with government agencies in the United States (and other countries). Registration is a key to establishing legal rights.

To assist its members, SEMA has created a webpage called Introduction to Intellectual Property Rights, explaining the different types of IP, including protecting new products (utility patents) and product designs (design patent), identifying the source of the product (trademarks) and protecting product brochures or website designs (copyright). It also contains information on how to register IP along with links to seminars, webinars and SEMA News articles.

With respect to enforcing IP rights at the SEMA Show, the association has developed an effective policy for pursuing infringement allegations. SEMA’s IP enforcement policy is posted on the IPR webpage and is also published as part of the Exhibitor Services Manual. Questions may be directed to Stuart Gosswein (stuartg@sema.org).

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? HRIA is!

Be sure to follow HRIA on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/hria and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.

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Visit TORA's website.

Inaugural TORA Fall Nationals at SEMA Show

TORA’s annual Industry Awards Reception took on a whole new look at the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas by hosting a Pinewood Drags competition. Reception attendees rented Pinewood race cars and raised almost $1,600 for Victory Junction!

The cars were all built last year by children at a Childhelp center in Virginia, and TORA Select Committee member Tom Brooks was gracious enough to cart them to Las Vegas for this event.

An eliminations ladder was kept updated on the wall so that competitors could keep track of their entry, and TORA Chair Elect George Lathouris of Keystone kept the crowd engaged as the “track announcer.” When the graphite dust had cleared from 72 cars (graphite is used to lubricate the wheels of the Pinewood race cars), Steve Bralier of Undercover emerged as the first-ever TORA Fall Nationals “Top Eliminator”. Steve capped off the evening by donating his first place prize of a $100 American Express debit card to Victory Junction.

Congratulations and thank you, Steve, and congratulations and thank you to all of the TORA Fall Nationals participants and spectators. If you missed this inaugural event, don’t worry; plans are already under way for the 2011 Fall Nationals!

Thank You TORA Fall Nationals Sponsors

TORA thanks the following member companies for sponsoring the TORA Fall Nationals Industry Awards reception. We could not have done it without your support!

• American Technology Components
• BDS Suspension
• BedRug
• DeeZee
• Extang
• Hella
• Jim Wrobleski & Company Inc.
• K&N Filters
• Keystone Automotive Operations
• Meyer Distributing
• Truck Covers USA
• TruXedo
• Undercover
• Weathers Auto Supply
• Weather Tech

TORA Presents Industry Awards

Even though the TORA Fall Nationals kept the assemble crowd excited, TORA also presented and congratulated the following TORA Industry Award winners.

• 2010 TORA Hall of Fame Award: Tom Brooks of Truckin’ Thunder
• 2010 TORA Retailer of the Year: Chux Trux
• 2010 TORA Chairman’s Award: Chris Ripper
• Best Product Over $500: Invis-A-Rack, Cargo Management System
• Best Product Under $500: Putco, LED Day Liner

If you haven't already, like us on Facebook.

What's the Value of Being an TORA Member?

New Products Showcase – Put your product in front of one of the largest gathering of truck enthusiasts in the country at the Carlisle Truck Nationals.

Networking – TORA mixer at the Carlisle All Truck Nationals, Annual Long-Range Planning meeting and access to TORA members and light-truck industry professionals around the world.

Tools and resources for the retailer and installer – "Pickup Bed Dimensions Sheet," "Keyless Entry Wiring Pickup Points Reference Sheet," "Why Paints Don’t Match" DVD and more.

Education – and TORA-specific learning track on the new SEI from SEMA, coming soon!

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? TORA Is!

Be sure to follow TORA on all of your favorite social networking sites.

To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/TORA and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit MRC's website.

MRC Partners with TeleNotes

The Manufacturers' Rep Council has partnered with TeleNotes to provide another exciting council member benefit. TeleNotes will help you capture and utilize business data to drive sales. With almost 10 years of national sales experience, TeleNotes can help your company achieve revenue growth through more effective and productive sales teams, and consistently improve your productivity by 20%–40%. Through this partnership, TeleNotes offers their services to MRC members at an exclusive, discounted rate. For more details, contact Staci Bostock, SEMA council manager, at stacib@sema.org or directly 909/978-6693.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MRC is!

Be sure to follow MRC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mrc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MRC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

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Visit PRO's website.

Have you ever wondered how to get more involved in the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Council?

What exactly do the council leaders do throughout their term? Very simply, the Select Committee is elected by members of the council to serve a two-year term. They participate in monthly conference calls and meetings that are held at various trade events throughout the year. Each Select Committee member volunteers for at least 20 hours throughout the year, and some volunteer even more. Some share their experience and vision, others provide creative solutions to challenges our member companies are facing and others get their hands dirty and get it done. Each Select Committee member is supported by their company in their PRO efforts, and for that we say, “thank you,” to those companies!

The leaders of the PRO gathered earlier this year in Lima, Ohio, for its annual Long-Range Planning meeting. This meeting focused on bringing value to the PRO-member companies. The past 18 months have been extremely challenging for all of our companies, and the council is dedicated to utilizing SEMA’s resources to further benefit each PRO member.

Guiding the group’s effort was the council’s mission statement to “address the challenges facing the restyling segment of the automotive aftermarket and to develop effective strategies for dealing with industry-specific issues.” A handful of exciting objectives are being developed for the council over this year and next. If you are passionate and have an interest in being involved, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for a task force with a limited investment of time that provides a great way to network and share your ideas. Please reach out to the task force chair if you want to participate or have comments.

Education Task Force
Brian Champa (Check Corporation) and Bill North (Webasto Product North America) co-chair this task force and can be reached at bchampa@checkcorp.com or bill.north@webasto-us.com. The education task force is charged with developing successful programs for members to enhance their businesses. The Technical Skills & Training Conference (TSTC) recently launched, and the group is tasked with expanding the number of events each year to ensure that training and education become primary drivers for our industry.

NovemberFest Task Force
Mike Stanifer (Innovative Creations Inc.) chairs this group and can be reached at mike@icionline.com. The SEMA Show in Las Vegas provides the backdrop for critical networking functions. This group focuses on making PRO’s awards reception the place to be and offering a fun forum to bring passionate members with common interests together.

Membership Task Force
Joey Johnston (Tops & Trends) chairs this group and can be reached at joey@topsandtrends.com. The success of any council or initiative is dependent upon its members. This task force focuses on growth, promotion and retention. It is important that we mentor new members on council activities, events, meetings and benefits.

ProPledge Task Force
David Stringer (Insignia Group) chairs this group and can be reached at dstringer@insigniagroup.com. The purpose of this group is to promote industry standards and to improve the perception of aftermarket installations throughout the restyling industry. ProPledge offers dealers a warranty program and is committed to delivering quality products and services.

There are so many other things the council leadership does throughout the year. You are the expert at what your business needs, and this council wants to deliver. Feel free to get in touch with us or come to one of our PRO events. Our hope is that if you haven’t been a part of PRO yet, you will be in 2010 and beyond.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? PRO Is!

Be sure to follow PRO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/pro and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.

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Visit SBN's website.

You Ought to Be in Pictures!

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network committee is a great resource of minds. All ladies in the specialty-equipment industry can join the SBN, so pass the word around to your colleagues and friends! We are encouraging all new and existing SBN members to log-in to the MySEMA portal to update their profile with a photo so we get to know each other's faces before the SEMA Show.

And don’t forget to turn your notifications settings “ON” so you can stay in “the loop.” Want to know more about the SBN? Interested in becoming a member?

Want to get involved in the industry but don't know how? We have an app for that! Go to www.SEMA.org, click on the Leadership tab, click on Council/Committee, click on SBN and join! Don't delay—get involved and join now. You are just a few clicks away! We look forward to "seeing" everyone!

Don’t Be Out of the Loop—Stay in Touch

The very best way to stay in touch and to read the latest news, discussions and topics posted from SEMA and the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) is to make sure that your notification settings are turned on in your MySEMA account. Next to your photo on your MySEMA page, at the top right, is a link to the "Edit My Settings" page.

On the “settings” page, look for the “notifications” tab, where it will ask how you would like to receive your news. Check whichever method is most convenient, but either way, make sure you're in the loop by turning “on” your notifications. Visit http://my.sema.org to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Discover the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SBN is!

Be sure to follow SBN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/sbn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Angela Lee.

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Visit SPC's website.

Find the Business Possibilities Through the SPC

Participate in the automotive aftermarket at a whole new level by joining the SPC.

The purpose of SEMA councils is to help our member companies succeed and prosper. In the SPC, our mission is to provide market information, education and support to our members concerning new and emerging trends. Whether it’s the latest business technology, forecasting sales, future marketing solutions or up and coming vehicle platforms, we give you and your company the chance to see what’s on the horizon.

Then we’ll help you understand and acquire the skills, tools and technologies to lead the way. The SPC has the most diverse membership of any SEMA council, and that will allow you to network with other professionals from every facet of our industry and gain insights into areas you may not have previously considered. Find out about the parts, people, technologies, strategies, trends and, most important, possibilities.

This is your chance to give something back to the industry, your profession and to grow personally along the way. Join the SPC today and become an active member of the specialty equipment and automotive market — Tracie Nuñez, Advanced Clutch Technology, SPC Chairman

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SPC is!

Be sure to follow SPC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/spc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Angela Lee.

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Visit WTC's website

WTC Releases Preliminary Speaker Lineup for Its Inaugural Conference

The one-day event will consist of three educational sessions and an open meeting that allows attendees the opportunity to participate, voice their concerns and help drive council initiatives.

Session 1: TPMS – Myths and Facts

Russ Fuller of Revolution Supply Co. will share the stage with Ed Jones of Bartec as they discuss TPMS use, pitfalls and ways in which to profit.

Session 2: Training Resources for Retail Tire Technicians

Sponsored by the Tire Industry Association (TIA).

Brock Weld

Session 3: Hear what the Pros Think!

Listen to industry leaders as they provide their unique perspective on the industry and the potential trends that will shape the future. Scheduled to present: Myles Kovacs, DUB magazine founder and president; Rich Botello, Explorer Competition; and Brock Weld, BMF Wheels.

This Week’s Featured Speaker: Brock Weld, BMF Wheels

Brock Weld is the president and owner of BMF Wheels, an aftermarket wheel company specializing in performance wheels for the off-road and lifted truck enthusiast. After 16 years of overseeing manufacturing and selling high-performance wheels at Weld Wheel Industries, Weld left to build his own wheel company and brand. He also serves as a Select Committee member of the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council and is a member of the SEMA Show Committee.

To learn more or sign-up, visit www.sema.org/learnandshow or call Zane Clark at 909/978-6696.

Save the Date: WTC Announces Date for Inaugural Conference and Product Showcase

WTC has announced that the inaugural WTC Conference and Product Showcase will be held on Wednesday, February 9, 2011, at the SEMA Headquarters in Diamond Bar, California.

The conference will feature three educational sessions comprised of expert panels discussing:

• Industry-specific sales strategies and profit-building techniques.
• Using social media and web search tools to drive traffic into your business.
• New products and industry trends.

The educational sessions will run concurrently with the Product Showcase that will feature exhibits highlighting new products, business services and equipment. And, of course, there will be some cool cars to looks at.

As an added benefit for anyone interested in learning more about what SEMA and the WTC are doing for our industry, the council will open up its Long-Range Planning meeting for council members and guests to attend and participate.

So, mark your calendar, and keep an eye out for registration announcements and more information.

You can also contact Zane Clark, SEMA council director at zanec@sema.org for more information.

Have you ever wondered how to get more involved in the SEMA Wheel and Tire (WTC) Council?

What exactly do the council leaders do throughout their term? Very simply, the Select Committee is elected by members of the council to serve a two-year term. They participate in monthly conference calls and meetings that are held at various trade events throughout the year. Each Select Committee member volunteers for at least 20 hours throughout the year, and some volunteer even more. Some share their experience and vision, others provide creative solutions to challenges our member companies are facing and others get their hands dirty and get it done. Each Select Committee member is supported by their company in their WTC efforts, and for that we say “thank you” to those companies!

The leaders of the WTC gathered earlier this year at SEMA headquarters in Diamond Bar, California, for its annual Long-Range Planning meeting. This meeting focused on bringing value to the WTC-member companies. The past 18 months have been extremely challenging for all of our companies and the council is dedicated to utilizing SEMA’s resources to further benefit each WTC member.

Guiding the group’s effort was the council’s mission statement to “identify common problems and opportunities relating to the wheel and tire industries that the council, as an interested body of companies, can address for the common good.” A handful of exciting objectives are being developed for the council over this year and next. If you are passionate and have an interest in being involved, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for a task force with a limited investment of time that provides a great way to network and share your ideas. Please reach out to the task force chair if you want to participate or have comments.

Science and Technology Task Force
Tim Dietz (Standards Testing Laboratories Inc.) and can be reached at tdietz@stllabs.com. This group focuses on aftermarket and OEM advances that affect our industry. From creating wheel standards to improved processes for tire-pressure monitoring systems and electronic stability control, the Science and Technology Task Force plays a pivotal role in the industry’s advancement.

Education Task Force
Kelly Austin (Ultra Wheel Company) chairs this group and can be reached at kelly@mail.ultrawheel.com. The education task force is charged with developing successful programs for members to enhance their businesses. The WTC Task Force is responsible for partnering with the SEMA Educational Institute to create and promote online learning resources.

Communication and Marketing Task Force
Doug Frymer (Law Offices of Douglas A. Frymer) chairs this group and can be reached at legal@starshieldarmor.com. This group focuses on membership outreach, growth and retention. It is imperative that councils effectively communicate services provided by WTC and SEMA to our members. Communication and services ensure that there is proper dialogue between leadership and membership.

SEMA Show Task Force
David Insull (American Tire Distributors) chairs this group and can be reached at dinsull@atd-us.com. The SEMA Show in Las Vegas provides the backdrop for critical networking functions. This group focuses on making WTC’s awards reception an ideal place to get together, honor one another and network with all those who share a common passion.

There are so many other things the council leadership does throughout the year. You are the expert at what your business needs and this council wants to deliver. Feel free to get in touch with us or come to one of our WTC events. Our hope is that, if you haven’t been a part of WTC yet, you will be in 2010 and beyond.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? WTC is!

Be sure to follow WTC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/wtc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call or 909/978-6696.

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Visit YEN's website

SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program

Since 2004, SEMA's Young Executives Network has been dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their automotive specialty-equipment career.

“SEMA and YEN are believers in higher education,” said Gregory Parker, chairman of the Young Executives Network. “However, with today's higher costs of getting an education, more and more students have to turn to student loans. The new YEN Loan Forgiveness Scholarship Award will now be able to help a previous or current student who has loans they are trying to pay off while working within our industry. Our inaugural scholarship winner, Jaclyn Kilani, worked hard to put herself through school and is now working for a SEMA-member company. We are just glad we are able to recognize and reward her for her hard work, and we look forward to doing the same for other industry peers as we move into the future.”

Kilani, who recently graduated from California State University with a degree in graphic design, is the marketing director at Dannmar Equipment, a manufacturer of automotive repair products. Of the specialty-equipment industry, Kilani says, “I couldn’t see myself anywhere else. It’s an eclectic marketplace with a very unique audience, and I love the challenge of marketing a company in a non-traditional way. This award came at the perfect time, and it's a tremendous step toward my goal of becoming debt-free. I truly appreciate the privilege.”

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program is dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their specialty-equipment career. SEMA offers a minimum of $1,000 toward outstanding student loans for individuals who are employed by SEMA-member companies. Applications for the next program open in December 2010 at www.sema.org/scholarships.

Join YEN

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? YEN is!

Be sure to follow YEN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/yen and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Angela Lee.

Visit MPMC's website.

Media Registration Now Open

Media may now register for the 2011 MPMC Media Trade Conference. The online registration form is available here. The 14th annual MPMC Media Trade Conference takes place on January 25–27, 2011, at the Embassy Suites LAX South in El Segundo, California. Media attendees may attend as many as 42 pre-scheduled meetings with MPMC-member manufacturers over the three-day event. Attendance is free to media and lunch is provided each day along with a media reception on Tuesday evening of the event.

SAVE THE DATE! MPMC Long-Range Planning

The MPMC Long-Range Planning meeting will take place on Monday, January 24, 2011, at the Embassy Suites LAX South, in El Segundo, California, in conjunction with the 2011 Media Trade Conference. This will be an afternoon meeting, so that exhibitors arriving on Monday morning for the Media Trade Conference may attend. Exact times and room location will be announced shortly. The LRP is open to all MPMC members, not just Media Trade Conference exhibitors.

“We traditionally hold this meeting on the Friday after the Trade Conference, but it ends up being a Trade Conference debriefing,” said Fickler. “And many exhibitors fly out on Friday morning anyway. We want to try it on Monday this year and concentrate on long-range planning. We’re hoping that more exhibitors can attend with this arrangement, since they all arrive on Sunday or Monday anyway.”

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MPMC Is!

Be sure to follow MPMC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mpmc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

Take a Friend to a Race Fan Page

The MPMC Motorsports Awareness campaign, highlighted by the Take a Friend to a Race program, now has its very own Fanpage on Facebook. If you’re not a fan yet, you should be!



MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.



For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Long-Range Planning Meeting

Mark your calendar for the annual ARMO Long-Range Planning Meeting, Wednesday, March 16, 2011, in Indianapolis. This is the Wednesday of Hotrod & Restoration Show week in Indianapolis. ARMO hopes that many members who are already planning to attend the show will find it convenient to add one more day to their itinerary in order to attend this very important meeting. Exact times and location coming soon, watch SEMA eNews and the ARMO website for updates.

ARMO Seminars at Hotrod & Restoration Show

ARMO will once again host two seminars on Saturday, March 19, 2011, at the Hotrod & Restoration Show. “The Art of Selling” (presented by Dick Dixon) and “How the Internet Can Improve Your Business” will be the topics. Exact times and locations to be announced, but mark your calendar and stay tuned to SEMA eNews and the ARMO website for updates.

ARMO Presents Industry Awards at Annual Reception

ARMO presented its Industry Awards at its annual reception in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel during the 2010 SEMA Show.

Dennis Gage, host of the popular television show “My Classic Car” and longtime restoration enthusiast, emceed the event, which featured some of the top companies involved in the restoration industry.

ARMO congratulates the following award winners:

• 2010 Restoration Event of the Year: Year One’s Chip Foose Braselton Bash
• 2010 ARMO Business of the Year: Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists
• 2010 Person of the Year: Jim Barber
• 2010 ARMO Hall of Fame Inductee: Jeff Leonard of Classic Industries
• 2010 ARMO Hall of Fame Inductee: Doug Evans of Source Interlink Media

Thank you ARMO Sponsors!

The annual reception is only possible each year through the help of ARMO's sponsoring companies. The council extends thanks to the following sponsors of the 2010 ARMO Industry Awards Reception.

• American Autowire
• Auto Custom Carpet
• Auto Trader Classics
• Bryn Dana International (Color Bond)
• Carlisle Events
• Classic Industries
• Dynacorn Classic Bodies
• Hagerty Insurance
• Hemmings Motor News
• Parts Unlimited Interiors
• Source Interlink Media
• Steele Rubber Products
• TrimParts

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? ARMO Is!

Be sure to follow ARMO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/armo and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit HRIA's website

Save the Date: February 25, 2011. Location: Cobo Center – Detroit

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance will be hosting its Annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with Championship Auto Shows Detroit Autorama, taking place February 25–27, 2011.

Enjoy this great show and participate in the one meeting that does the most to drive industry issues. The Hot Rod Industry Alliance will open its doors to any interested party who wants to make a difference. If you have a question, concern, idea or just want a better understanding of how the process works, get off the sidelines and join the cause! The HRIA is here to serve your business and our industry but cannot do it without your help. To learn more and get involved, visit www.sema.org/hria or call Zane Clark at 909/978-6696.

Have You Registered a Patent or Trademark? Your Competition Has.

Protecting the intellectual property rights (IPR) of its members is a top SEMA priority. The process begins when companies register their patents, trademarks and copyrights with government agencies in the United States (and other countries). Registration is a key to establishing legal rights.

To assist its members, SEMA has created a webpage called Introduction to Intellectual Property Rights, explaining the different types of IP, including protecting new products (utility patents) and product designs (design patent), identifying the source of the product (trademarks) and protecting product brochures or website designs (copyright). It also contains information on how to register IP along with links to seminars, webinars and SEMA News articles.

With respect to enforcing IP rights at the SEMA Show, the association has developed an effective policy for pursuing infringement allegations. SEMA’s IP enforcement policy is posted on the IPR webpage and is also published as part of the Exhibitor Services Manual. Questions may be directed to Stuart Gosswein (stuartg@sema.org).

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? HRIA is!

Be sure to follow HRIA on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/hria and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.

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Visit TORA's website.

Inaugural TORA Fall Nationals at SEMA Show

TORA’s annual Industry Awards Reception took on a whole new look at the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas by hosting a Pinewood Drags competition. Reception attendees rented Pinewood race cars and raised almost $1,600 for Victory Junction!

The cars were all built last year by children at a Childhelp center in Virginia, and TORA Select Committee member Tom Brooks was gracious enough to cart them to Las Vegas for this event.

An eliminations ladder was kept updated on the wall so that competitors could keep track of their entry, and TORA Chair Elect George Lathouris of Keystone kept the crowd engaged as the “track announcer.” When the graphite dust had cleared from 72 cars (graphite is used to lubricate the wheels of the Pinewood race cars), Steve Bralier of Undercover emerged as the first-ever TORA Fall Nationals “Top Eliminator”. Steve capped off the evening by donating his first place prize of a $100 American Express debit card to Victory Junction.

Congratulations and thank you, Steve, and congratulations and thank you to all of the TORA Fall Nationals participants and spectators. If you missed this inaugural event, don’t worry; plans are already under way for the 2011 Fall Nationals!

Thank You TORA Fall Nationals Sponsors

TORA thanks the following member companies for sponsoring the TORA Fall Nationals Industry Awards reception. We could not have done it without your support!

• American Technology Components
• BDS Suspension
• BedRug
• DeeZee
• Extang
• Hella
• Jim Wrobleski & Company Inc.
• K&N Filters
• Keystone Automotive Operations
• Meyer Distributing
• Truck Covers USA
• TruXedo
• Undercover
• Weathers Auto Supply
• Weather Tech

TORA Presents Industry Awards

Even though the TORA Fall Nationals kept the assemble crowd excited, TORA also presented and congratulated the following TORA Industry Award winners.

• 2010 TORA Hall of Fame Award: Tom Brooks of Truckin’ Thunder
• 2010 TORA Retailer of the Year: Chux Trux
• 2010 TORA Chairman’s Award: Chris Ripper
• Best Product Over $500: Invis-A-Rack, Cargo Management System
• Best Product Under $500: Putco, LED Day Liner

If you haven't already, like us on Facebook.

What's the Value of Being an TORA Member?

New Products Showcase – Put your product in front of one of the largest gathering of truck enthusiasts in the country at the Carlisle Truck Nationals.

Networking – TORA mixer at the Carlisle All Truck Nationals, Annual Long-Range Planning meeting and access to TORA members and light-truck industry professionals around the world.

Tools and resources for the retailer and installer – "Pickup Bed Dimensions Sheet," "Keyless Entry Wiring Pickup Points Reference Sheet," "Why Paints Don’t Match" DVD and more.

Education – and TORA-specific learning track on the new SEI from SEMA, coming soon!

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? TORA Is!

Be sure to follow TORA on all of your favorite social networking sites.

To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/TORA and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit MRC's website.

MRC Partners with TeleNotes

The Manufacturers' Rep Council has partnered with TeleNotes to provide another exciting council member benefit. TeleNotes will help you capture and utilize business data to drive sales. With almost 10 years of national sales experience, TeleNotes can help your company achieve revenue growth through more effective and productive sales teams, and consistently improve your productivity by 20%–40%. Through this partnership, TeleNotes offers their services to MRC members at an exclusive, discounted rate. For more details, contact Staci Bostock, SEMA council manager, at stacib@sema.org or directly 909/978-6693.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MRC is!

Be sure to follow MRC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mrc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MRC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

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Visit PRO's website.

Have you ever wondered how to get more involved in the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Council?

What exactly do the council leaders do throughout their term? Very simply, the Select Committee is elected by members of the council to serve a two-year term. They participate in monthly conference calls and meetings that are held at various trade events throughout the year. Each Select Committee member volunteers for at least 20 hours throughout the year, and some volunteer even more. Some share their experience and vision, others provide creative solutions to challenges our member companies are facing and others get their hands dirty and get it done. Each Select Committee member is supported by their company in their PRO efforts, and for that we say, “thank you,” to those companies!

The leaders of the PRO gathered earlier this year in Lima, Ohio, for its annual Long-Range Planning meeting. This meeting focused on bringing value to the PRO-member companies. The past 18 months have been extremely challenging for all of our companies, and the council is dedicated to utilizing SEMA’s resources to further benefit each PRO member.

Guiding the group’s effort was the council’s mission statement to “address the challenges facing the restyling segment of the automotive aftermarket and to develop effective strategies for dealing with industry-specific issues.” A handful of exciting objectives are being developed for the council over this year and next. If you are passionate and have an interest in being involved, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for a task force with a limited investment of time that provides a great way to network and share your ideas. Please reach out to the task force chair if you want to participate or have comments.

Education Task Force
Brian Champa (Check Corporation) and Bill North (Webasto Product North America) co-chair this task force and can be reached at bchampa@checkcorp.com or bill.north@webasto-us.com. The education task force is charged with developing successful programs for members to enhance their businesses. The Technical Skills & Training Conference (TSTC) recently launched, and the group is tasked with expanding the number of events each year to ensure that training and education become primary drivers for our industry.

NovemberFest Task Force
Mike Stanifer (Innovative Creations Inc.) chairs this group and can be reached at mike@icionline.com. The SEMA Show in Las Vegas provides the backdrop for critical networking functions. This group focuses on making PRO’s awards reception the place to be and offering a fun forum to bring passionate members with common interests together.

Membership Task Force
Joey Johnston (Tops & Trends) chairs this group and can be reached at joey@topsandtrends.com. The success of any council or initiative is dependent upon its members. This task force focuses on growth, promotion and retention. It is important that we mentor new members on council activities, events, meetings and benefits.

ProPledge Task Force
David Stringer (Insignia Group) chairs this group and can be reached at dstringer@insigniagroup.com. The purpose of this group is to promote industry standards and to improve the perception of aftermarket installations throughout the restyling industry. ProPledge offers dealers a warranty program and is committed to delivering quality products and services.

There are so many other things the council leadership does throughout the year. You are the expert at what your business needs, and this council wants to deliver. Feel free to get in touch with us or come to one of our PRO events. Our hope is that if you haven’t been a part of PRO yet, you will be in 2010 and beyond.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? PRO Is!

Be sure to follow PRO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/pro and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.

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Visit SBN's website.

You Ought to Be in Pictures!

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network committee is a great resource of minds. All ladies in the specialty-equipment industry can join the SBN, so pass the word around to your colleagues and friends! We are encouraging all new and existing SBN members to log-in to the MySEMA portal to update their profile with a photo so we get to know each other's faces before the SEMA Show.

And don’t forget to turn your notifications settings “ON” so you can stay in “the loop.” Want to know more about the SBN? Interested in becoming a member?

Want to get involved in the industry but don't know how? We have an app for that! Go to www.SEMA.org, click on the Leadership tab, click on Council/Committee, click on SBN and join! Don't delay—get involved and join now. You are just a few clicks away! We look forward to "seeing" everyone!

Don’t Be Out of the Loop—Stay in Touch

The very best way to stay in touch and to read the latest news, discussions and topics posted from SEMA and the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) is to make sure that your notification settings are turned on in your MySEMA account. Next to your photo on your MySEMA page, at the top right, is a link to the "Edit My Settings" page.

On the “settings” page, look for the “notifications” tab, where it will ask how you would like to receive your news. Check whichever method is most convenient, but either way, make sure you're in the loop by turning “on” your notifications. Visit http://my.sema.org to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Discover the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SBN is!

Be sure to follow SBN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/sbn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Angela Lee.

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Visit SPC's website.

Find the Business Possibilities Through the SPC

Participate in the automotive aftermarket at a whole new level by joining the SPC.

The purpose of SEMA councils is to help our member companies succeed and prosper. In the SPC, our mission is to provide market information, education and support to our members concerning new and emerging trends. Whether it’s the latest business technology, forecasting sales, future marketing solutions or up and coming vehicle platforms, we give you and your company the chance to see what’s on the horizon.

Then we’ll help you understand and acquire the skills, tools and technologies to lead the way. The SPC has the most diverse membership of any SEMA council, and that will allow you to network with other professionals from every facet of our industry and gain insights into areas you may not have previously considered. Find out about the parts, people, technologies, strategies, trends and, most important, possibilities.

This is your chance to give something back to the industry, your profession and to grow personally along the way. Join the SPC today and become an active member of the specialty equipment and automotive market — Tracie Nuñez, Advanced Clutch Technology, SPC Chairman

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SPC is!

Be sure to follow SPC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/spc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Angela Lee.

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Visit WTC's website

WTC Releases Preliminary Speaker Lineup for Its Inaugural Conference

The one-day event will consist of three educational sessions and an open meeting that allows attendees the opportunity to participate, voice their concerns and help drive council initiatives.

Session 1: TPMS – Myths and Facts

Russ Fuller of Revolution Supply Co. will share the stage with Ed Jones of Bartec as they discuss TPMS use, pitfalls and ways in which to profit.

Session 2: Training Resources for Retail Tire Technicians

Sponsored by the Tire Industry Association (TIA).

Brock Weld

Session 3: Hear what the Pros Think!

Listen to industry leaders as they provide their unique perspective on the industry and the potential trends that will shape the future. Scheduled to present: Myles Kovacs, DUB magazine founder and president; Rich Botello, Explorer Competition; and Brock Weld, BMF Wheels.

This Week’s Featured Speaker: Brock Weld, BMF Wheels

Brock Weld is the president and owner of BMF Wheels, an aftermarket wheel company specializing in performance wheels for the off-road and lifted truck enthusiast. After 16 years of overseeing manufacturing and selling high-performance wheels at Weld Wheel Industries, Weld left to build his own wheel company and brand. He also serves as a Select Committee member of the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council and is a member of the SEMA Show Committee.

To learn more or sign-up, visit www.sema.org/learnandshow or call Zane Clark at 909/978-6696.

Save the Date: WTC Announces Date for Inaugural Conference and Product Showcase

WTC has announced that the inaugural WTC Conference and Product Showcase will be held on Wednesday, February 9, 2011, at the SEMA Headquarters in Diamond Bar, California.

The conference will feature three educational sessions comprised of expert panels discussing:

• Industry-specific sales strategies and profit-building techniques.
• Using social media and web search tools to drive traffic into your business.
• New products and industry trends.

The educational sessions will run concurrently with the Product Showcase that will feature exhibits highlighting new products, business services and equipment. And, of course, there will be some cool cars to looks at.

As an added benefit for anyone interested in learning more about what SEMA and the WTC are doing for our industry, the council will open up its Long-Range Planning meeting for council members and guests to attend and participate.

So, mark your calendar, and keep an eye out for registration announcements and more information.

You can also contact Zane Clark, SEMA council director at zanec@sema.org for more information.

Have you ever wondered how to get more involved in the SEMA Wheel and Tire (WTC) Council?

What exactly do the council leaders do throughout their term? Very simply, the Select Committee is elected by members of the council to serve a two-year term. They participate in monthly conference calls and meetings that are held at various trade events throughout the year. Each Select Committee member volunteers for at least 20 hours throughout the year, and some volunteer even more. Some share their experience and vision, others provide creative solutions to challenges our member companies are facing and others get their hands dirty and get it done. Each Select Committee member is supported by their company in their WTC efforts, and for that we say “thank you” to those companies!

The leaders of the WTC gathered earlier this year at SEMA headquarters in Diamond Bar, California, for its annual Long-Range Planning meeting. This meeting focused on bringing value to the WTC-member companies. The past 18 months have been extremely challenging for all of our companies and the council is dedicated to utilizing SEMA’s resources to further benefit each WTC member.

Guiding the group’s effort was the council’s mission statement to “identify common problems and opportunities relating to the wheel and tire industries that the council, as an interested body of companies, can address for the common good.” A handful of exciting objectives are being developed for the council over this year and next. If you are passionate and have an interest in being involved, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for a task force with a limited investment of time that provides a great way to network and share your ideas. Please reach out to the task force chair if you want to participate or have comments.

Science and Technology Task Force
Tim Dietz (Standards Testing Laboratories Inc.) and can be reached at tdietz@stllabs.com. This group focuses on aftermarket and OEM advances that affect our industry. From creating wheel standards to improved processes for tire-pressure monitoring systems and electronic stability control, the Science and Technology Task Force plays a pivotal role in the industry’s advancement.

Education Task Force
Kelly Austin (Ultra Wheel Company) chairs this group and can be reached at kelly@mail.ultrawheel.com. The education task force is charged with developing successful programs for members to enhance their businesses. The WTC Task Force is responsible for partnering with the SEMA Educational Institute to create and promote online learning resources.

Communication and Marketing Task Force
Doug Frymer (Law Offices of Douglas A. Frymer) chairs this group and can be reached at legal@starshieldarmor.com. This group focuses on membership outreach, growth and retention. It is imperative that councils effectively communicate services provided by WTC and SEMA to our members. Communication and services ensure that there is proper dialogue between leadership and membership.

SEMA Show Task Force
David Insull (American Tire Distributors) chairs this group and can be reached at dinsull@atd-us.com. The SEMA Show in Las Vegas provides the backdrop for critical networking functions. This group focuses on making WTC’s awards reception an ideal place to get together, honor one another and network with all those who share a common passion.

There are so many other things the council leadership does throughout the year. You are the expert at what your business needs and this council wants to deliver. Feel free to get in touch with us or come to one of our WTC events. Our hope is that, if you haven’t been a part of WTC yet, you will be in 2010 and beyond.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? WTC is!

Be sure to follow WTC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/wtc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call or 909/978-6696.

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Visit YEN's website

SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program

Since 2004, SEMA's Young Executives Network has been dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their automotive specialty-equipment career.

“SEMA and YEN are believers in higher education,” said Gregory Parker, chairman of the Young Executives Network. “However, with today's higher costs of getting an education, more and more students have to turn to student loans. The new YEN Loan Forgiveness Scholarship Award will now be able to help a previous or current student who has loans they are trying to pay off while working within our industry. Our inaugural scholarship winner, Jaclyn Kilani, worked hard to put herself through school and is now working for a SEMA-member company. We are just glad we are able to recognize and reward her for her hard work, and we look forward to doing the same for other industry peers as we move into the future.”

Kilani, who recently graduated from California State University with a degree in graphic design, is the marketing director at Dannmar Equipment, a manufacturer of automotive repair products. Of the specialty-equipment industry, Kilani says, “I couldn’t see myself anywhere else. It’s an eclectic marketplace with a very unique audience, and I love the challenge of marketing a company in a non-traditional way. This award came at the perfect time, and it's a tremendous step toward my goal of becoming debt-free. I truly appreciate the privilege.”

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program is dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their specialty-equipment career. SEMA offers a minimum of $1,000 toward outstanding student loans for individuals who are employed by SEMA-member companies. Applications for the next program open in December 2010 at www.sema.org/scholarships.

Join YEN

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? YEN is!

Be sure to follow YEN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/yen and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Angela Lee.

Visit MPMC's website.

Media Registration Now Open

Media may now register for the 2011 MPMC Media Trade Conference. The online registration form is available here. The 14th annual MPMC Media Trade Conference takes place on January 25–27, 2011, at the Embassy Suites LAX South in El Segundo, California. Media attendees may attend as many as 42 pre-scheduled meetings with MPMC-member manufacturers over the three-day event. Attendance is free to media and lunch is provided each day along with a media reception on Tuesday evening of the event.

SAVE THE DATE! MPMC Long-Range Planning

The MPMC Long-Range Planning meeting will take place on Monday, January 24, 2011, at the Embassy Suites LAX South, in El Segundo, California, in conjunction with the 2011 Media Trade Conference. This will be an afternoon meeting, so that exhibitors arriving on Monday morning for the Media Trade Conference may attend. Exact times and room location will be announced shortly. The LRP is open to all MPMC members, not just Media Trade Conference exhibitors.

“We traditionally hold this meeting on the Friday after the Trade Conference, but it ends up being a Trade Conference debriefing,” said Fickler. “And many exhibitors fly out on Friday morning anyway. We want to try it on Monday this year and concentrate on long-range planning. We’re hoping that more exhibitors can attend with this arrangement, since they all arrive on Sunday or Monday anyway.”

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MPMC Is!

Be sure to follow MPMC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mpmc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

Take a Friend to a Race Fan Page

The MPMC Motorsports Awareness campaign, highlighted by the Take a Friend to a Race program, now has its very own Fanpage on Facebook. If you’re not a fan yet, you should be!



MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.



For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit ARMO's website.

ARMO Long-Range Planning Meeting

Mark your calendar for the annual ARMO Long-Range Planning Meeting, Wednesday, March 16, 2011, in Indianapolis. This is the Wednesday of Hotrod & Restoration Show week in Indianapolis. ARMO hopes that many members who are already planning to attend the show will find it convenient to add one more day to their itinerary in order to attend this very important meeting. Exact times and location coming soon, watch SEMA eNews and the ARMO website for updates.

ARMO Seminars at Hotrod & Restoration Show

ARMO will once again host two seminars on Saturday, March 19, 2011, at the Hotrod & Restoration Show. “The Art of Selling” (presented by Dick Dixon) and “How the Internet Can Improve Your Business” will be the topics. Exact times and locations to be announced, but mark your calendar and stay tuned to SEMA eNews and the ARMO website for updates.

ARMO Presents Industry Awards at Annual Reception

ARMO presented its Industry Awards at its annual reception in the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel during the 2010 SEMA Show.

Dennis Gage, host of the popular television show “My Classic Car” and longtime restoration enthusiast, emceed the event, which featured some of the top companies involved in the restoration industry.

ARMO congratulates the following award winners:

• 2010 Restoration Event of the Year: Year One’s Chip Foose Braselton Bash
• 2010 ARMO Business of the Year: Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists
• 2010 Person of the Year: Jim Barber
• 2010 ARMO Hall of Fame Inductee: Jeff Leonard of Classic Industries
• 2010 ARMO Hall of Fame Inductee: Doug Evans of Source Interlink Media

Thank you ARMO Sponsors!

The annual reception is only possible each year through the help of ARMO's sponsoring companies. The council extends thanks to the following sponsors of the 2010 ARMO Industry Awards Reception.

• American Autowire
• Auto Custom Carpet
• Auto Trader Classics
• Bryn Dana International (Color Bond)
• Carlisle Events
• Classic Industries
• Dynacorn Classic Bodies
• Hagerty Insurance
• Hemmings Motor News
• Parts Unlimited Interiors
• Source Interlink Media
• Steele Rubber Products
• TrimParts

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? ARMO Is!

Be sure to follow ARMO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/armo and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about ARMO, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit HRIA's website

Save the Date: February 25, 2011. Location: Cobo Center – Detroit

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance will be hosting its Annual Long-Range Planning meeting in conjunction with Championship Auto Shows Detroit Autorama, taking place February 25–27, 2011.

Enjoy this great show and participate in the one meeting that does the most to drive industry issues. The Hot Rod Industry Alliance will open its doors to any interested party who wants to make a difference. If you have a question, concern, idea or just want a better understanding of how the process works, get off the sidelines and join the cause! The HRIA is here to serve your business and our industry but cannot do it without your help. To learn more and get involved, visit www.sema.org/hria or call Zane Clark at 909/978-6696.

Have You Registered a Patent or Trademark? Your Competition Has.

Protecting the intellectual property rights (IPR) of its members is a top SEMA priority. The process begins when companies register their patents, trademarks and copyrights with government agencies in the United States (and other countries). Registration is a key to establishing legal rights.

To assist its members, SEMA has created a webpage called Introduction to Intellectual Property Rights, explaining the different types of IP, including protecting new products (utility patents) and product designs (design patent), identifying the source of the product (trademarks) and protecting product brochures or website designs (copyright). It also contains information on how to register IP along with links to seminars, webinars and SEMA News articles.

With respect to enforcing IP rights at the SEMA Show, the association has developed an effective policy for pursuing infringement allegations. SEMA’s IP enforcement policy is posted on the IPR webpage and is also published as part of the Exhibitor Services Manual. Questions may be directed to Stuart Gosswein (stuartg@sema.org).

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? HRIA is!

Be sure to follow HRIA on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/hria and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

Read HRIA's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about HRIA and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.

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Visit TORA's website.

Inaugural TORA Fall Nationals at SEMA Show

TORA’s annual Industry Awards Reception took on a whole new look at the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas by hosting a Pinewood Drags competition. Reception attendees rented Pinewood race cars and raised almost $1,600 for Victory Junction!

The cars were all built last year by children at a Childhelp center in Virginia, and TORA Select Committee member Tom Brooks was gracious enough to cart them to Las Vegas for this event.

An eliminations ladder was kept updated on the wall so that competitors could keep track of their entry, and TORA Chair Elect George Lathouris of Keystone kept the crowd engaged as the “track announcer.” When the graphite dust had cleared from 72 cars (graphite is used to lubricate the wheels of the Pinewood race cars), Steve Bralier of Undercover emerged as the first-ever TORA Fall Nationals “Top Eliminator”. Steve capped off the evening by donating his first place prize of a $100 American Express debit card to Victory Junction.

Congratulations and thank you, Steve, and congratulations and thank you to all of the TORA Fall Nationals participants and spectators. If you missed this inaugural event, don’t worry; plans are already under way for the 2011 Fall Nationals!

Thank You TORA Fall Nationals Sponsors

TORA thanks the following member companies for sponsoring the TORA Fall Nationals Industry Awards reception. We could not have done it without your support!

• American Technology Components
• BDS Suspension
• BedRug
• DeeZee
• Extang
• Hella
• Jim Wrobleski & Company Inc.
• K&N Filters
• Keystone Automotive Operations
• Meyer Distributing
• Truck Covers USA
• TruXedo
• Undercover
• Weathers Auto Supply
• Weather Tech

TORA Presents Industry Awards

Even though the TORA Fall Nationals kept the assemble crowd excited, TORA also presented and congratulated the following TORA Industry Award winners.

• 2010 TORA Hall of Fame Award: Tom Brooks of Truckin’ Thunder
• 2010 TORA Retailer of the Year: Chux Trux
• 2010 TORA Chairman’s Award: Chris Ripper
• Best Product Over $500: Invis-A-Rack, Cargo Management System
• Best Product Under $500: Putco, LED Day Liner

If you haven't already, like us on Facebook.

What's the Value of Being an TORA Member?

New Products Showcase – Put your product in front of one of the largest gathering of truck enthusiasts in the country at the Carlisle Truck Nationals.

Networking – TORA mixer at the Carlisle All Truck Nationals, Annual Long-Range Planning meeting and access to TORA members and light-truck industry professionals around the world.

Tools and resources for the retailer and installer – "Pickup Bed Dimensions Sheet," "Keyless Entry Wiring Pickup Points Reference Sheet," "Why Paints Don’t Match" DVD and more.

Education – and TORA-specific learning track on the new SEI from SEMA, coming soon!

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? TORA Is!

Be sure to follow TORA on all of your favorite social networking sites.

To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/TORA and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

Read TORA's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.

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Visit MRC's website.

MRC Partners with TeleNotes

The Manufacturers' Rep Council has partnered with TeleNotes to provide another exciting council member benefit. TeleNotes will help you capture and utilize business data to drive sales. With almost 10 years of national sales experience, TeleNotes can help your company achieve revenue growth through more effective and productive sales teams, and consistently improve your productivity by 20%–40%. Through this partnership, TeleNotes offers their services to MRC members at an exclusive, discounted rate. For more details, contact Staci Bostock, SEMA council manager, at stacib@sema.org or directly 909/978-6693.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MRC is!

Be sure to follow MRC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mrc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MRC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

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Visit PRO's website.

Have you ever wondered how to get more involved in the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Council?

What exactly do the council leaders do throughout their term? Very simply, the Select Committee is elected by members of the council to serve a two-year term. They participate in monthly conference calls and meetings that are held at various trade events throughout the year. Each Select Committee member volunteers for at least 20 hours throughout the year, and some volunteer even more. Some share their experience and vision, others provide creative solutions to challenges our member companies are facing and others get their hands dirty and get it done. Each Select Committee member is supported by their company in their PRO efforts, and for that we say, “thank you,” to those companies!

The leaders of the PRO gathered earlier this year in Lima, Ohio, for its annual Long-Range Planning meeting. This meeting focused on bringing value to the PRO-member companies. The past 18 months have been extremely challenging for all of our companies, and the council is dedicated to utilizing SEMA’s resources to further benefit each PRO member.

Guiding the group’s effort was the council’s mission statement to “address the challenges facing the restyling segment of the automotive aftermarket and to develop effective strategies for dealing with industry-specific issues.” A handful of exciting objectives are being developed for the council over this year and next. If you are passionate and have an interest in being involved, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for a task force with a limited investment of time that provides a great way to network and share your ideas. Please reach out to the task force chair if you want to participate or have comments.

Education Task Force
Brian Champa (Check Corporation) and Bill North (Webasto Product North America) co-chair this task force and can be reached at bchampa@checkcorp.com or bill.north@webasto-us.com. The education task force is charged with developing successful programs for members to enhance their businesses. The Technical Skills & Training Conference (TSTC) recently launched, and the group is tasked with expanding the number of events each year to ensure that training and education become primary drivers for our industry.

NovemberFest Task Force
Mike Stanifer (Innovative Creations Inc.) chairs this group and can be reached at mike@icionline.com. The SEMA Show in Las Vegas provides the backdrop for critical networking functions. This group focuses on making PRO’s awards reception the place to be and offering a fun forum to bring passionate members with common interests together.

Membership Task Force
Joey Johnston (Tops & Trends) chairs this group and can be reached at joey@topsandtrends.com. The success of any council or initiative is dependent upon its members. This task force focuses on growth, promotion and retention. It is important that we mentor new members on council activities, events, meetings and benefits.

ProPledge Task Force
David Stringer (Insignia Group) chairs this group and can be reached at dstringer@insigniagroup.com. The purpose of this group is to promote industry standards and to improve the perception of aftermarket installations throughout the restyling industry. ProPledge offers dealers a warranty program and is committed to delivering quality products and services.

There are so many other things the council leadership does throughout the year. You are the expert at what your business needs, and this council wants to deliver. Feel free to get in touch with us or come to one of our PRO events. Our hope is that if you haven’t been a part of PRO yet, you will be in 2010 and beyond.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? PRO Is!

Be sure to follow PRO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/pro and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

Read PRO's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about PRO, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.

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Visit SBN's website.

You Ought to Be in Pictures!

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network committee is a great resource of minds. All ladies in the specialty-equipment industry can join the SBN, so pass the word around to your colleagues and friends! We are encouraging all new and existing SBN members to log-in to the MySEMA portal to update their profile with a photo so we get to know each other's faces before the SEMA Show.

And don’t forget to turn your notifications settings “ON” so you can stay in “the loop.” Want to know more about the SBN? Interested in becoming a member?

Want to get involved in the industry but don't know how? We have an app for that! Go to www.SEMA.org, click on the Leadership tab, click on Council/Committee, click on SBN and join! Don't delay—get involved and join now. You are just a few clicks away! We look forward to "seeing" everyone!

Don’t Be Out of the Loop—Stay in Touch

The very best way to stay in touch and to read the latest news, discussions and topics posted from SEMA and the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) is to make sure that your notification settings are turned on in your MySEMA account. Next to your photo on your MySEMA page, at the top right, is a link to the "Edit My Settings" page.

On the “settings” page, look for the “notifications” tab, where it will ask how you would like to receive your news. Check whichever method is most convenient, but either way, make sure you're in the loop by turning “on” your notifications. Visit http://my.sema.org to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Discover the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN

“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker

Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.

“Ask A Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related questions.

Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with your project.

Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.

So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help from our friends.

Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SBN is!

Be sure to follow SBN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/sbn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Angela Lee.

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Visit SPC's website.

Find the Business Possibilities Through the SPC

Participate in the automotive aftermarket at a whole new level by joining the SPC.

The purpose of SEMA councils is to help our member companies succeed and prosper. In the SPC, our mission is to provide market information, education and support to our members concerning new and emerging trends. Whether it’s the latest business technology, forecasting sales, future marketing solutions or up and coming vehicle platforms, we give you and your company the chance to see what’s on the horizon.

Then we’ll help you understand and acquire the skills, tools and technologies to lead the way. The SPC has the most diverse membership of any SEMA council, and that will allow you to network with other professionals from every facet of our industry and gain insights into areas you may not have previously considered. Find out about the parts, people, technologies, strategies, trends and, most important, possibilities.

This is your chance to give something back to the industry, your profession and to grow personally along the way. Join the SPC today and become an active member of the specialty equipment and automotive market — Tracie Nuñez, Advanced Clutch Technology, SPC Chairman

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SPC is!

Be sure to follow SPC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/spc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SPC, contact Angela Lee.

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Visit WTC's website

WTC Releases Preliminary Speaker Lineup for Its Inaugural Conference

The one-day event will consist of three educational sessions and an open meeting that allows attendees the opportunity to participate, voice their concerns and help drive council initiatives.

Session 1: TPMS – Myths and Facts

Russ Fuller of Revolution Supply Co. will share the stage with Ed Jones of Bartec as they discuss TPMS use, pitfalls and ways in which to profit.

Session 2: Training Resources for Retail Tire Technicians

Sponsored by the Tire Industry Association (TIA).

Brock Weld

Session 3: Hear what the Pros Think!

Listen to industry leaders as they provide their unique perspective on the industry and the potential trends that will shape the future. Scheduled to present: Myles Kovacs, DUB magazine founder and president; Rich Botello, Explorer Competition; and Brock Weld, BMF Wheels.

This Week’s Featured Speaker: Brock Weld, BMF Wheels

Brock Weld is the president and owner of BMF Wheels, an aftermarket wheel company specializing in performance wheels for the off-road and lifted truck enthusiast. After 16 years of overseeing manufacturing and selling high-performance wheels at Weld Wheel Industries, Weld left to build his own wheel company and brand. He also serves as a Select Committee member of the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council and is a member of the SEMA Show Committee.

To learn more or sign-up, visit www.sema.org/learnandshow or call Zane Clark at 909/978-6696.

Save the Date: WTC Announces Date for Inaugural Conference and Product Showcase

WTC has announced that the inaugural WTC Conference and Product Showcase will be held on Wednesday, February 9, 2011, at the SEMA Headquarters in Diamond Bar, California.

The conference will feature three educational sessions comprised of expert panels discussing:

• Industry-specific sales strategies and profit-building techniques.
• Using social media and web search tools to drive traffic into your business.
• New products and industry trends.

The educational sessions will run concurrently with the Product Showcase that will feature exhibits highlighting new products, business services and equipment. And, of course, there will be some cool cars to looks at.

As an added benefit for anyone interested in learning more about what SEMA and the WTC are doing for our industry, the council will open up its Long-Range Planning meeting for council members and guests to attend and participate.

So, mark your calendar, and keep an eye out for registration announcements and more information.

You can also contact Zane Clark, SEMA council director at zanec@sema.org for more information.

Have you ever wondered how to get more involved in the SEMA Wheel and Tire (WTC) Council?

What exactly do the council leaders do throughout their term? Very simply, the Select Committee is elected by members of the council to serve a two-year term. They participate in monthly conference calls and meetings that are held at various trade events throughout the year. Each Select Committee member volunteers for at least 20 hours throughout the year, and some volunteer even more. Some share their experience and vision, others provide creative solutions to challenges our member companies are facing and others get their hands dirty and get it done. Each Select Committee member is supported by their company in their WTC efforts, and for that we say “thank you” to those companies!

The leaders of the WTC gathered earlier this year at SEMA headquarters in Diamond Bar, California, for its annual Long-Range Planning meeting. This meeting focused on bringing value to the WTC-member companies. The past 18 months have been extremely challenging for all of our companies and the council is dedicated to utilizing SEMA’s resources to further benefit each WTC member.

Guiding the group’s effort was the council’s mission statement to “identify common problems and opportunities relating to the wheel and tire industries that the council, as an interested body of companies, can address for the common good.” A handful of exciting objectives are being developed for the council over this year and next. If you are passionate and have an interest in being involved, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for a task force with a limited investment of time that provides a great way to network and share your ideas. Please reach out to the task force chair if you want to participate or have comments.

Science and Technology Task Force
Tim Dietz (Standards Testing Laboratories Inc.) and can be reached at tdietz@stllabs.com. This group focuses on aftermarket and OEM advances that affect our industry. From creating wheel standards to improved processes for tire-pressure monitoring systems and electronic stability control, the Science and Technology Task Force plays a pivotal role in the industry’s advancement.

Education Task Force
Kelly Austin (Ultra Wheel Company) chairs this group and can be reached at kelly@mail.ultrawheel.com. The education task force is charged with developing successful programs for members to enhance their businesses. The WTC Task Force is responsible for partnering with the SEMA Educational Institute to create and promote online learning resources.

Communication and Marketing Task Force
Doug Frymer (Law Offices of Douglas A. Frymer) chairs this group and can be reached at legal@starshieldarmor.com. This group focuses on membership outreach, growth and retention. It is imperative that councils effectively communicate services provided by WTC and SEMA to our members. Communication and services ensure that there is proper dialogue between leadership and membership.

SEMA Show Task Force
David Insull (American Tire Distributors) chairs this group and can be reached at dinsull@atd-us.com. The SEMA Show in Las Vegas provides the backdrop for critical networking functions. This group focuses on making WTC’s awards reception an ideal place to get together, honor one another and network with all those who share a common passion.

There are so many other things the council leadership does throughout the year. You are the expert at what your business needs and this council wants to deliver. Feel free to get in touch with us or come to one of our WTC events. Our hope is that, if you haven’t been a part of WTC yet, you will be in 2010 and beyond.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? WTC is!

Be sure to follow WTC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/wtc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

Read WTC's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call or 909/978-6696.

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Visit YEN's website

SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program

Since 2004, SEMA's Young Executives Network has been dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their automotive specialty-equipment career.

“SEMA and YEN are believers in higher education,” said Gregory Parker, chairman of the Young Executives Network. “However, with today's higher costs of getting an education, more and more students have to turn to student loans. The new YEN Loan Forgiveness Scholarship Award will now be able to help a previous or current student who has loans they are trying to pay off while working within our industry. Our inaugural scholarship winner, Jaclyn Kilani, worked hard to put herself through school and is now working for a SEMA-member company. We are just glad we are able to recognize and reward her for her hard work, and we look forward to doing the same for other industry peers as we move into the future.”

Kilani, who recently graduated from California State University with a degree in graphic design, is the marketing director at Dannmar Equipment, a manufacturer of automotive repair products. Of the specialty-equipment industry, Kilani says, “I couldn’t see myself anywhere else. It’s an eclectic marketplace with a very unique audience, and I love the challenge of marketing a company in a non-traditional way. This award came at the perfect time, and it's a tremendous step toward my goal of becoming debt-free. I truly appreciate the privilege.”

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program is dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their specialty-equipment career. SEMA offers a minimum of $1,000 toward outstanding student loans for individuals who are employed by SEMA-member companies. Applications for the next program open in December 2010 at www.sema.org/scholarships.

Join YEN

Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500 members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee? If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of 39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our website at www.sema.org/yen.

YEN Member of the Month Spotlight

Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.

Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? YEN is!

Be sure to follow YEN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/yen and use the links in the top right-hand corner.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the November/December issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Angela Lee.