Products Available for SEMA Show Project-Vehicle Builders
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

SEMA Show exhibitors: Generate more buzz for your company and its products at the 2009 SEMA Show by offering products to builders through the SEMA Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list. From now until just days before the annual Show, the latest additions to this list are made available through SEMA eNews. Hundreds of builders access the list, looking for the pieces that add extra flair to their builds. Product placement opportunities such as this are so beneficial that many exhibitors offer products for free or at a greatly reduced rate.

To place your product on the list, send your company name, a brief product description, contact information and a website where the products can be viewed to eNews@sema.org and put “Product List” in the e-mail subject line. Remember, builders will contact you directly, so make sure your contact information is accurate. New submissions will be included every week.

View all of the previous submissions in PDF format.

Here are the products offered this week:

Exterior Products/Accessories

ATS Diesel: Diesel performance upgrades for 3/4- and 1-ton Dodge/Ford/GM, including transmission and converter, fuel system, turbo, electronics, water injection and propane assist. Contact: Matt@ATSdiesel.com. Website: www.ATSdiesel.com/SEMA.

Carriage Works: Billet aluminum grille inserts for cars, trucks and SUVs. Exhaust tips, stainless steel trim kits and truck roll pans also available for some vehicles. Contact: Bob Van Vliet, justbob@carriageworksinc.com, 816/966-1405, ext 34. Website: www.cwgrilles.com.

Owens Products Inc.: Steps and running boards for CUVs, SUVs, vans and pickups. Tool/Storage boxes for pickups, ATVs and UTVs. Contact: Kathy Knautz, kathy@owensproducts.com, 269/865-2121. Website: www.OwensProducts.com.

Engine/Underhood Components

Pure Power! Lifetime Oil Filters: U.S. patented, cleanable and reusable green and performance lifetime oil and fuel filters—direct Spin-on replacements, remotes, drop-ins for gasoline, diesel, Bio-Diesel, etc. 25,000 applications. Extreme high-performance motor oil, lubricants and grease. Contact: Fran Cyrus, fran@gopurepower.com, 714/894-2994, ext 101. Website: www.gopurepower.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

Wet Okole Hawaii Seat Covers: Seat covers for most every car on the road today. Over 40 Colors to choose from. Styles include custom, half-piping custom and full-piping custom. Options include seat heaters, seat-back pockets and lumbar pumps. Contact: Steven Grew, Steven.grew@wetokole.com, 888/246-5653, 714/434-9000. Website: www.wetokole.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

Hellwig Products Co. Inc.: Heavy-duty, heat-treated sway bars; lightweight, high-performance tubular sway bars; air spring kits; and helper spring kits. Contact: Nancy Souza or David Wheeler, 800/367-5480. Website: www.hellwigproducts.com.

Products Available for SEMA Show Project-Vehicle Builders
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

SEMA Show exhibitors: Generate more buzz for your company and its products at the 2009 SEMA Show by offering products to builders through the SEMA Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list. From now until just days before the annual Show, the latest additions to this list are made available through SEMA eNews. Hundreds of builders access the list, looking for the pieces that add extra flair to their builds. Product placement opportunities such as this are so beneficial that many exhibitors offer products for free or at a greatly reduced rate.

To place your product on the list, send your company name, a brief product description, contact information and a website where the products can be viewed to eNews@sema.org and put “Product List” in the e-mail subject line. Remember, builders will contact you directly, so make sure your contact information is accurate. New submissions will be included every week.

View all of the previous submissions in PDF format.

Here are the products offered this week:

Exterior Products/Accessories

ATS Diesel: Diesel performance upgrades for 3/4- and 1-ton Dodge/Ford/GM, including transmission and converter, fuel system, turbo, electronics, water injection and propane assist. Contact: Matt@ATSdiesel.com. Website: www.ATSdiesel.com/SEMA.

Carriage Works: Billet aluminum grille inserts for cars, trucks and SUVs. Exhaust tips, stainless steel trim kits and truck roll pans also available for some vehicles. Contact: Bob Van Vliet, justbob@carriageworksinc.com, 816/966-1405, ext 34. Website: www.cwgrilles.com.

Owens Products Inc.: Steps and running boards for CUVs, SUVs, vans and pickups. Tool/Storage boxes for pickups, ATVs and UTVs. Contact: Kathy Knautz, kathy@owensproducts.com, 269/865-2121. Website: www.OwensProducts.com.

Engine/Underhood Components

Pure Power! Lifetime Oil Filters: U.S. patented, cleanable and reusable green and performance lifetime oil and fuel filters—direct Spin-on replacements, remotes, drop-ins for gasoline, diesel, Bio-Diesel, etc. 25,000 applications. Extreme high-performance motor oil, lubricants and grease. Contact: Fran Cyrus, fran@gopurepower.com, 714/894-2994, ext 101. Website: www.gopurepower.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

Wet Okole Hawaii Seat Covers: Seat covers for most every car on the road today. Over 40 Colors to choose from. Styles include custom, half-piping custom and full-piping custom. Options include seat heaters, seat-back pockets and lumbar pumps. Contact: Steven Grew, Steven.grew@wetokole.com, 888/246-5653, 714/434-9000. Website: www.wetokole.com.

Suspension/Brake Components

Hellwig Products Co. Inc.: Heavy-duty, heat-treated sway bars; lightweight, high-performance tubular sway bars; air spring kits; and helper spring kits. Contact: Nancy Souza or David Wheeler, 800/367-5480. Website: www.hellwigproducts.com.

Where's the Hot Rod Industry Headed? Find Out at HRIA Membership Meeting
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.

 

Hot Rod Council Membership to Meet

Dennis Overholser and Rick Love will be taking their new positions as HRIA Chairman and Chair-elect on July 1. They would like to invite and encourage all council member companies and their employees to attend the HRIA membership meeting in Columbus, Ohio, on July 9. The meeting is held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Goodguys PPG Nationals. The meeting location is the Ohio Expo Center in the Expo Building. The meeting begins at 3:00 p.m.

 

Come meet and greet HRIA’s newly seated select committee members and hear what the HRIA is doing for its members. For further information contact Jan Desma, 909/396-0289 x 134.

HRIA Announces Incoming Chair-Elect

On July 1, 2009, the HRIA Select Committee chairmanship will be passed from Jeanette Ladina to the current chair-elect, Dennis Overholser. At that time, a new chair-elect will be installed. Rick Love of Vintage Air has been selected for this position, which will inevitably lead to the chair position in just over two years. During the next two years, Love will be learning and assisting Overholser on the focus and direction of the HRIA Select Committee.

Love is currently the executive vice president of Vintage Air Inc. He has been involved in the hot-rod industry since the late '70s when he built his first hot rod during his senior year in high school. He built several hot rods in the early '80s and began to do A/C installations, which led him to become an authorized dealer and installer for Vintage Air products. Through this association, he began to work with them on product development, which eventually led to a full-time position. Love has been vice president at Vintage Air since 1998.

When asked about his passion for the industry, Love said, "My hobby has evolved into a career, but I also remain a dedicated enthusiast at heart." Love still has the '39 Ford coupe he built in 1984, and it has more than 140,000 miles on it so far. Love also has a '32 Ford coupe and a '72 Camaro RS Pro Touring car, both of which are driven regularly.

To round out his life, Love and his wife Linda, whom he has been married to for 15 years, have a 13-year-old son Matt. "My other hobbies are sports, especially basketball, and I enjoy being involved with my son’s sports activities," said Love.

Love has been an HRIA Select Committee member since 2005 and said, "I am looking forward to moving into the chair-elect position in July. I think two of the most important issues ahead for our industry are continuing to promote youth involvement and focusing on legislation that will encourage the growth of our hobby and industry.

The next generation of passionate car guys and car gals are the key to sustaining the steady growth that we have enjoyed. It is equally important that we have consistent processes and legislation throughout the country to register and license our specialty vehicles so that we may continue to drive and enjoy them."

Love believes that SEMA and its councils such as HRIA can help mobilize support for these issues and keep them in the forefront.

Six Seats Open for HRIA Select Committee

Nominations for a seat on the HRIA Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009. HRIA member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each HRIA member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Del Austin – Egge Machine Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring – Incumbent
Douglas Frymer – Law Office of Douglas A. Frymer
Ray Gorman – Stainless Steel Brakes Corp.
Michael Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Bob Millard – Championship Auto Show/ISCA
Eric Saltrick – Steele Rubber Products – Incumbent
Vince Sica – Power Master (MCI Inc.)
Bret Voelkel – Air Ride Technologies

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time to give back to the 300+ HRIA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of the entire HRIA membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique alliance.

Each HRIA company will be asked to vote for six of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all the candidates well with their election campaigns.

Questions regarding HRIA council elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Dennis Overholser at 817/244-6212 x1008 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

HRIA Industry Awards Reception

5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Closed Select Committee Meeting

 

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma.

 


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Six Seats Open for ARMO Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the ARMO Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009.

ARMO member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each ARMO-member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Cliff Carr – Parts Unlimited Inc. (PUI)
Jim Christina – Dynacorn International Inc.
Eric DeTaeye – Legendary Auto Interiors
Jonathan Klinger – Hagerty Insurance
Bob Lichty – Motorcar Portfolio LLC
Roger Niehaus – Auto Custom Carpets – Incumbent
Sandy Patterson – Source Interlink Media – Incumbent
Lenny Schaeffer – Chop Shop Customs
Jim Vinarski – Carlisle Productions – Incumbent
Harry Weimann – WyoTech
Jeff Yager – Hemmings Motor News

The Perfect Storm Hits Spring Carlisle Car Show

There was a convergence of forces at the Carlisle Spring Swap Meet. Beautiful weather, large vendor participation and a huge crowd made this a perfect storm. At the center of it all was the ARMO New Products Showcase tent. The showcase featured 64 new items submitted by ARMO members—a new record. From sheetmetal to electronics, hardware to weather stripping, the tent had what car people crave—new stuff. A constant flow of potential customers was asking, "Where can I buy this?"

The entries were photographed for inclusion in the ARMO booth display at the 2009 SEMA Show. The companies that participated in the New Product Showcase included:

American Autowire
Ames Automotive
Auto Custom Carpets Inc.
Autometal Direct
Bed Wood and Parts LLC
Brew City Engineering
CARS Inc.
Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc.
Classic Industries
Coker Tire
Dakota Digital Inc.
Dynacorn
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc.
Hellwig Products
ididit Inc.
JAE Enterprises Inc.
Just Dashes Inc.
Legendary Auto Interiors, Ltd.
MBM Brake Boosters
Muscle Car Industries
Precision Replacement Parts
Quanta Products LLC
Rare Parts Inc.
REM Automotive Inc.
Shafer's Classic Reproductions
Shiftworks
Steele Rubber Products
Eastwood Company
TrimParts Inc.
Universal Vintage Tire

ARMO Industry Awards Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

ARMO Open Council Meeting


7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

ARMO Roundtable

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about ARMO, contact Jan Desma.


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Select Committee Announces Nominees
TORA is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections. A total of nine seats are open on the Select Committee in the following categories:


Manufacturer Category (three open seats)

 

Bryan Baker – A.R.E. – Incumbent
Bennett Jackson – Husky Liners/Winfield Consumer Products
Mark Krook – Vanguard Manufacturing
Shawn O’Neal – Agri-Cover
Fred Snow – Hella Inc.
Soren Sorensen – Pilot Automotive
John Stethem – Leer Inc. (TAG)

Retailers/Dealers – (five open seats)

 

Charlie Card – Vehicle Accessories
Peggy Goss – Goss Camper Sales
Casey Miser – All American Truck & SUV Accessory Center
Chris Ripper – Chux Trux
Ron Towry – Truck Gear SuperCenter
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

Media/WD/Rep – (one open seat)

 

Nick Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
John Iannotte – N.A. Williams Co. Performance Accessory Division
Zan Martin – Martin & Co. Advertising

TORA Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. Ballots were e-mailed to the TORA membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until Tuesday, June 16. 

 

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

TORA members can pack plenty of activity around this year’s annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting. Scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., the meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser at the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, August 1. The SEMA Pinewood Drag Race and the SEMA Show 'N Shine car show are also on tap for that day.

Sandwiched between the Thursday LRP meeting and Saturday’s SEMA festivities at the Convention Center, Friday is available for attendees to see West Coast clients or spend a free day in Old Town Pasadena. Old Town is filled with an eclectic mix of shops, stores and restaurants that easily make a full day of sightseeing within walking distance of the Westin and Convention Center.

“This is a tough year for everyone,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “A West Coast trip may not make sense on the surface, but we wanted to hold the meeting in conjunction with some other event so that members could combine two trips into one. With the postponement of the TSTC in March, the only other big event coming up is the SEMA Show in November.

 

"At the SEMA Show, everyone is already overwhelmed, and it’s really not a good venue at which to conduct long-range planning. While this may keep some of our East Coast and Midwest companies from attending, on a positive note we’re hoping that some of the West Coast members, who rarely come east for an LRP, can attend this year’s meeting.”

Please contact TORA Staff Liaison Jim Skelly for more information.


TORA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

TORA Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


George Lathouris Named TORA Chair-Elect


The TORA Select Committee has named Keystone’s George Lathouris as its chair-elect. Lathouris will assume his new responsibilities on July 1, when Kelly Kneifl assumes the duties of chairman from current Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. Congratulations to George!

 

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read TORA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.




Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.
MPMC Select Committee Nominees
MPMC is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections.

Rich Barsamian – Grant Products Incumbent
Billy Carroll – Incumbent
Steve Matusek – Aeromotive Inc.
Peter Medina – Synapse Engineering
Marla Moore – Hypertech Incumbent
Todd Ryden – MSD Incumbent
Vince Sica – Powermaster Performance
Tyler Tanaka – Turbonetics
Vic Wood – Hedman Manufacturing

MPMC Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. The eballot will contain instructions on completing the ballot, a short bio of each candidate and the list of candidates for voting. An eballot was e-mailed to the MPMC membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until June 16. One eballot only will be e-mailed to each MPMC member company, specifically the council contact listed in the SEMA membership database.

If you have any questions concerning the MPMC Select Committee election, please contact Jim Skelly.
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News


Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

 



Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting their annual Long-Range Planning Meeting at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 1:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Dinner will be served. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the specialty-equipment industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps. For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104 by Friday, August 28, 2009.

8th Annual MRC Rep Conference

In these turbulent times, don’t just survive—thrive! Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of MANA, will present an open and interactive session addressing our industry's biggest challenges in these turbulent times. This event will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres, compliments of the MRC Select Committee and PWA. Download your registration form to reserve your seat for this event. For more information, visit www.sema.org/MRC or contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

Seven Seats Open for MRC Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the MRC Select Committee will take place the week of May 25, 2009. This year, ballots will be sent out electronically to each MRC member company. Each MRC member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the MRC slate:

Mark Adin – PSKB
Alan Adlam – J.K. Sales
Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Irv Cohen – SS Sales & Marketing – Incumbent
Jim Considine – Considine Sales & Marketing
Bill Eagan – Airheart Sales
Chris Fairless – R & R Marketing Incumbent
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales West
Nathan Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Scott Majors – MBA Marketing Group – Incumbent
Jim Morehouse – All Midwest Sales
Chris Perry – Bill Perry & Associates

Each MRC company will be asked to vote for seven of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their election campaigns. Questions regarding MRC council elections can be directed to SEMA Council Relations Coordinator Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

MRC will be holding its membership meeting and awards ceremony on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost. Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2008 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the 2008 SEMA Show.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

 

 

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 

Don't Miss Out!


There is still time to register for the annual PRO Project Planning Meeting scheduled for next Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, in the Motor City, Detroit, Michigan. The Crown Plaza Hotel, minutes from the Detroit Metro Airport, will once again host the event and is offering a blocked out room rate of only $115 for meeting attendees.

PRO is honored to have representatives from Ford, GM and Mopar on hand to conduct a panel discussion with meeting attendees, beginning at 11 am. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to exchange information directly with the OEMs!

 

Following this panel discussion and lunch, attendees will break out into smaller groups for specific topic discussions. A cocktail reception in the hotel from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. precedes a tour of the Ford F-150 assembly plant on Thursday evening. Breakout groups reconvene on Friday morning and then report back to the group at 10:00 a.m. The planning session adjourns at 11:00 a.m., allowing plenty of time for everyone to catch those afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas, and plan for solutions, than at the PRO Project Planning meeting. If you have not made your reservations, please RSVP to Jim Skelly. Contact Manya Petropaki for hotel and/or flight reservations at The Travel Store, manya.p@travelstoreusa.com, or 949/930-9268.

 

Eldon Bracken New Chair Elect of PRO Council
The PRO Select Committee announced that Eldon Bracken of Graphic Mart in Milton, Ontario, Canada, has been elected to the position of Chair Elect. Eldon will assume his new role on July 1, when current Chair Elect Karl Stearns takes over the Council Chair position from Chuck Blum. Congratulations, Eldon!


PRO Closed Select Committee Meeting


3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


PRO General Membership Meeting


7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

Webinar Sponsored by the Street Performance Council

The SPC is sponsoring the “Protecting Your Products With Contracts: Contract Law 101” webinar, presented by Elizabeth McNulty, Dan Rodman and Josie Mollica, Snell & Wilmer LLP, on Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. PDT.

SPC Reception

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz.

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.

 

10 Seats Open for SBN Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the SBN Select Committee will take place the week of May 18, 2009.

 

Seven of the seats will be for a two-year term and three of the seats will be for a one-year term.

Individual SBN members should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly.

Each SBN member is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Vicki Archila – R & R Marketing Consultants
Nan Kevin Gelhard – Summit Racing Equipment
Erin Gilhuly – Toyota Motor Sales
Jessica Grindle – Advanstar Communications
Cheralyn Hale – Advanced Clutch Technology
Julie Helms – Edgenet Inc. (Big Hammer)
Gigi Ho – Digital Performance Inc.
Anne Johnson – Keystone Automotive Operations
Melissa Lawrence – Power TV Media – Incumbent
Nancy Loetfering – Davert Tools Inc. – Incumbent
Laurie Marcellus – Trans American Auto Parts LLC Off Road Adventures

Cathi J. Robbe – Colorado State University
Trina Wilson – DCi – Incumbent
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time and give back to the 270+ SBN members and SEMA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of our membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique network of members.

Each SBN individual member will be asked to vote for 10 of these exceptional dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their campaign efforts.

Questions regarding SBN committee elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Tammy Holland at 901/375-3451 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

 

SBN Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SEMA Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

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.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.

 

WTC Open Meeting

 

1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

WTC Reception


5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.

 

YEN Announces Select Committee Candidates

Ballots were sent out electronically Friday, May 22.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Kris Carlson – Auto Meter Products Inc.
Ashley Chalk – Auto Club Speedway of Southern California – Incumbent
Casey Coker – Coker Tire Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring Inc. – Incumbent
Dan Dolan – DiabloSport Inc.
Ron Ezzell Jr. – Custom Logistics Inc.
Jason Fink – Advantage Truck Accessories Inc.
Kevin German – Ground Force Suspension
Chris Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
Eddie Hamilton – Bob Cook Sales
Bennett Jackson – Winfield Consumer Products Inc.
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales

Nathan Kunzman – Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
James Lawrence – Power TV Media
L.J. Lobsinger – Specialty Auto Parts USA Inc.
Trey Owen – Earl Owen Co. Inc.
Josh Pendolphia – KAM Marketing Inc.
Cary Redman – Prestolite Performance/Mr. Gasket
Robert Wityczak – Grant Products International Inc. – Incumbent


YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting

3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

YEN Reception

 

5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

Congratulations to Gregory Parker!

 

Gregory Parker from Martin & Company Advertising has been elected chair-elect of the Young Executives Network (YEN). Parker has served on the YEN Select Committee since 2005 and has been chairman of the SEMA Silent Auction Task Force.

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.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz.

Where's the Hot Rod Industry Headed? Find Out at HRIA Membership Meeting
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.

 

Hot Rod Council Membership to Meet

Dennis Overholser and Rick Love will be taking their new positions as HRIA Chairman and Chair-elect on July 1. They would like to invite and encourage all council member companies and their employees to attend the HRIA membership meeting in Columbus, Ohio, on July 9. The meeting is held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Goodguys PPG Nationals. The meeting location is the Ohio Expo Center in the Expo Building. The meeting begins at 3:00 p.m.

 

Come meet and greet HRIA’s newly seated select committee members and hear what the HRIA is doing for its members. For further information contact Jan Desma, 909/396-0289 x 134.

HRIA Announces Incoming Chair-Elect

On July 1, 2009, the HRIA Select Committee chairmanship will be passed from Jeanette Ladina to the current chair-elect, Dennis Overholser. At that time, a new chair-elect will be installed. Rick Love of Vintage Air has been selected for this position, which will inevitably lead to the chair position in just over two years. During the next two years, Love will be learning and assisting Overholser on the focus and direction of the HRIA Select Committee.

Love is currently the executive vice president of Vintage Air Inc. He has been involved in the hot-rod industry since the late '70s when he built his first hot rod during his senior year in high school. He built several hot rods in the early '80s and began to do A/C installations, which led him to become an authorized dealer and installer for Vintage Air products. Through this association, he began to work with them on product development, which eventually led to a full-time position. Love has been vice president at Vintage Air since 1998.

When asked about his passion for the industry, Love said, "My hobby has evolved into a career, but I also remain a dedicated enthusiast at heart." Love still has the '39 Ford coupe he built in 1984, and it has more than 140,000 miles on it so far. Love also has a '32 Ford coupe and a '72 Camaro RS Pro Touring car, both of which are driven regularly.

To round out his life, Love and his wife Linda, whom he has been married to for 15 years, have a 13-year-old son Matt. "My other hobbies are sports, especially basketball, and I enjoy being involved with my son’s sports activities," said Love.

Love has been an HRIA Select Committee member since 2005 and said, "I am looking forward to moving into the chair-elect position in July. I think two of the most important issues ahead for our industry are continuing to promote youth involvement and focusing on legislation that will encourage the growth of our hobby and industry.

The next generation of passionate car guys and car gals are the key to sustaining the steady growth that we have enjoyed. It is equally important that we have consistent processes and legislation throughout the country to register and license our specialty vehicles so that we may continue to drive and enjoy them."

Love believes that SEMA and its councils such as HRIA can help mobilize support for these issues and keep them in the forefront.

Six Seats Open for HRIA Select Committee

Nominations for a seat on the HRIA Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009. HRIA member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each HRIA member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Del Austin – Egge Machine Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring – Incumbent
Douglas Frymer – Law Office of Douglas A. Frymer
Ray Gorman – Stainless Steel Brakes Corp.
Michael Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Bob Millard – Championship Auto Show/ISCA
Eric Saltrick – Steele Rubber Products – Incumbent
Vince Sica – Power Master (MCI Inc.)
Bret Voelkel – Air Ride Technologies

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time to give back to the 300+ HRIA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of the entire HRIA membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique alliance.

Each HRIA company will be asked to vote for six of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all the candidates well with their election campaigns.

Questions regarding HRIA council elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Dennis Overholser at 817/244-6212 x1008 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

HRIA Industry Awards Reception

5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Closed Select Committee Meeting

 

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma.

 


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Six Seats Open for ARMO Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the ARMO Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009.

ARMO member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each ARMO-member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Cliff Carr – Parts Unlimited Inc. (PUI)
Jim Christina – Dynacorn International Inc.
Eric DeTaeye – Legendary Auto Interiors
Jonathan Klinger – Hagerty Insurance
Bob Lichty – Motorcar Portfolio LLC
Roger Niehaus – Auto Custom Carpets – Incumbent
Sandy Patterson – Source Interlink Media – Incumbent
Lenny Schaeffer – Chop Shop Customs
Jim Vinarski – Carlisle Productions – Incumbent
Harry Weimann – WyoTech
Jeff Yager – Hemmings Motor News

The Perfect Storm Hits Spring Carlisle Car Show

There was a convergence of forces at the Carlisle Spring Swap Meet. Beautiful weather, large vendor participation and a huge crowd made this a perfect storm. At the center of it all was the ARMO New Products Showcase tent. The showcase featured 64 new items submitted by ARMO members—a new record. From sheetmetal to electronics, hardware to weather stripping, the tent had what car people crave—new stuff. A constant flow of potential customers was asking, "Where can I buy this?"

The entries were photographed for inclusion in the ARMO booth display at the 2009 SEMA Show. The companies that participated in the New Product Showcase included:

American Autowire
Ames Automotive
Auto Custom Carpets Inc.
Autometal Direct
Bed Wood and Parts LLC
Brew City Engineering
CARS Inc.
Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc.
Classic Industries
Coker Tire
Dakota Digital Inc.
Dynacorn
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc.
Hellwig Products
ididit Inc.
JAE Enterprises Inc.
Just Dashes Inc.
Legendary Auto Interiors, Ltd.
MBM Brake Boosters
Muscle Car Industries
Precision Replacement Parts
Quanta Products LLC
Rare Parts Inc.
REM Automotive Inc.
Shafer's Classic Reproductions
Shiftworks
Steele Rubber Products
Eastwood Company
TrimParts Inc.
Universal Vintage Tire

ARMO Industry Awards Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

ARMO Open Council Meeting


7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

ARMO Roundtable

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about ARMO, contact Jan Desma.


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Select Committee Announces Nominees
TORA is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections. A total of nine seats are open on the Select Committee in the following categories:


Manufacturer Category (three open seats)

 

Bryan Baker – A.R.E. – Incumbent
Bennett Jackson – Husky Liners/Winfield Consumer Products
Mark Krook – Vanguard Manufacturing
Shawn O’Neal – Agri-Cover
Fred Snow – Hella Inc.
Soren Sorensen – Pilot Automotive
John Stethem – Leer Inc. (TAG)

Retailers/Dealers – (five open seats)

 

Charlie Card – Vehicle Accessories
Peggy Goss – Goss Camper Sales
Casey Miser – All American Truck & SUV Accessory Center
Chris Ripper – Chux Trux
Ron Towry – Truck Gear SuperCenter
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

Media/WD/Rep – (one open seat)

 

Nick Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
John Iannotte – N.A. Williams Co. Performance Accessory Division
Zan Martin – Martin & Co. Advertising

TORA Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. Ballots were e-mailed to the TORA membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until Tuesday, June 16. 

 

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

TORA members can pack plenty of activity around this year’s annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting. Scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., the meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser at the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, August 1. The SEMA Pinewood Drag Race and the SEMA Show 'N Shine car show are also on tap for that day.

Sandwiched between the Thursday LRP meeting and Saturday’s SEMA festivities at the Convention Center, Friday is available for attendees to see West Coast clients or spend a free day in Old Town Pasadena. Old Town is filled with an eclectic mix of shops, stores and restaurants that easily make a full day of sightseeing within walking distance of the Westin and Convention Center.

“This is a tough year for everyone,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “A West Coast trip may not make sense on the surface, but we wanted to hold the meeting in conjunction with some other event so that members could combine two trips into one. With the postponement of the TSTC in March, the only other big event coming up is the SEMA Show in November.

 

"At the SEMA Show, everyone is already overwhelmed, and it’s really not a good venue at which to conduct long-range planning. While this may keep some of our East Coast and Midwest companies from attending, on a positive note we’re hoping that some of the West Coast members, who rarely come east for an LRP, can attend this year’s meeting.”

Please contact TORA Staff Liaison Jim Skelly for more information.


TORA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

TORA Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


George Lathouris Named TORA Chair-Elect


The TORA Select Committee has named Keystone’s George Lathouris as its chair-elect. Lathouris will assume his new responsibilities on July 1, when Kelly Kneifl assumes the duties of chairman from current Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. Congratulations to George!

 

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read TORA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.




Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.
MPMC Select Committee Nominees
MPMC is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections.

Rich Barsamian – Grant Products Incumbent
Billy Carroll – Incumbent
Steve Matusek – Aeromotive Inc.
Peter Medina – Synapse Engineering
Marla Moore – Hypertech Incumbent
Todd Ryden – MSD Incumbent
Vince Sica – Powermaster Performance
Tyler Tanaka – Turbonetics
Vic Wood – Hedman Manufacturing

MPMC Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. The eballot will contain instructions on completing the ballot, a short bio of each candidate and the list of candidates for voting. An eballot was e-mailed to the MPMC membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until June 16. One eballot only will be e-mailed to each MPMC member company, specifically the council contact listed in the SEMA membership database.

If you have any questions concerning the MPMC Select Committee election, please contact Jim Skelly.
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News


Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

 



Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting their annual Long-Range Planning Meeting at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 1:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Dinner will be served. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the specialty-equipment industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps. For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104 by Friday, August 28, 2009.

8th Annual MRC Rep Conference

In these turbulent times, don’t just survive—thrive! Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of MANA, will present an open and interactive session addressing our industry's biggest challenges in these turbulent times. This event will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres, compliments of the MRC Select Committee and PWA. Download your registration form to reserve your seat for this event. For more information, visit www.sema.org/MRC or contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

Seven Seats Open for MRC Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the MRC Select Committee will take place the week of May 25, 2009. This year, ballots will be sent out electronically to each MRC member company. Each MRC member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the MRC slate:

Mark Adin – PSKB
Alan Adlam – J.K. Sales
Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Irv Cohen – SS Sales & Marketing – Incumbent
Jim Considine – Considine Sales & Marketing
Bill Eagan – Airheart Sales
Chris Fairless – R & R Marketing Incumbent
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales West
Nathan Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Scott Majors – MBA Marketing Group – Incumbent
Jim Morehouse – All Midwest Sales
Chris Perry – Bill Perry & Associates

Each MRC company will be asked to vote for seven of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their election campaigns. Questions regarding MRC council elections can be directed to SEMA Council Relations Coordinator Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

MRC will be holding its membership meeting and awards ceremony on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost. Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2008 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the 2008 SEMA Show.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

 

 

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 

Don't Miss Out!


There is still time to register for the annual PRO Project Planning Meeting scheduled for next Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, in the Motor City, Detroit, Michigan. The Crown Plaza Hotel, minutes from the Detroit Metro Airport, will once again host the event and is offering a blocked out room rate of only $115 for meeting attendees.

PRO is honored to have representatives from Ford, GM and Mopar on hand to conduct a panel discussion with meeting attendees, beginning at 11 am. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to exchange information directly with the OEMs!

 

Following this panel discussion and lunch, attendees will break out into smaller groups for specific topic discussions. A cocktail reception in the hotel from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. precedes a tour of the Ford F-150 assembly plant on Thursday evening. Breakout groups reconvene on Friday morning and then report back to the group at 10:00 a.m. The planning session adjourns at 11:00 a.m., allowing plenty of time for everyone to catch those afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas, and plan for solutions, than at the PRO Project Planning meeting. If you have not made your reservations, please RSVP to Jim Skelly. Contact Manya Petropaki for hotel and/or flight reservations at The Travel Store, manya.p@travelstoreusa.com, or 949/930-9268.

 

Eldon Bracken New Chair Elect of PRO Council
The PRO Select Committee announced that Eldon Bracken of Graphic Mart in Milton, Ontario, Canada, has been elected to the position of Chair Elect. Eldon will assume his new role on July 1, when current Chair Elect Karl Stearns takes over the Council Chair position from Chuck Blum. Congratulations, Eldon!


PRO Closed Select Committee Meeting


3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


PRO General Membership Meeting


7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

Webinar Sponsored by the Street Performance Council

The SPC is sponsoring the “Protecting Your Products With Contracts: Contract Law 101” webinar, presented by Elizabeth McNulty, Dan Rodman and Josie Mollica, Snell & Wilmer LLP, on Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. PDT.

SPC Reception

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz.

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.

 

10 Seats Open for SBN Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the SBN Select Committee will take place the week of May 18, 2009.

 

Seven of the seats will be for a two-year term and three of the seats will be for a one-year term.

Individual SBN members should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly.

Each SBN member is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Vicki Archila – R & R Marketing Consultants
Nan Kevin Gelhard – Summit Racing Equipment
Erin Gilhuly – Toyota Motor Sales
Jessica Grindle – Advanstar Communications
Cheralyn Hale – Advanced Clutch Technology
Julie Helms – Edgenet Inc. (Big Hammer)
Gigi Ho – Digital Performance Inc.
Anne Johnson – Keystone Automotive Operations
Melissa Lawrence – Power TV Media – Incumbent
Nancy Loetfering – Davert Tools Inc. – Incumbent
Laurie Marcellus – Trans American Auto Parts LLC Off Road Adventures

Cathi J. Robbe – Colorado State University
Trina Wilson – DCi – Incumbent
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time and give back to the 270+ SBN members and SEMA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of our membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique network of members.

Each SBN individual member will be asked to vote for 10 of these exceptional dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their campaign efforts.

Questions regarding SBN committee elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Tammy Holland at 901/375-3451 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

 

SBN Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SEMA Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

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.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.

 

WTC Open Meeting

 

1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

WTC Reception


5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.

 

YEN Announces Select Committee Candidates

Ballots were sent out electronically Friday, May 22.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Kris Carlson – Auto Meter Products Inc.
Ashley Chalk – Auto Club Speedway of Southern California – Incumbent
Casey Coker – Coker Tire Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring Inc. – Incumbent
Dan Dolan – DiabloSport Inc.
Ron Ezzell Jr. – Custom Logistics Inc.
Jason Fink – Advantage Truck Accessories Inc.
Kevin German – Ground Force Suspension
Chris Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
Eddie Hamilton – Bob Cook Sales
Bennett Jackson – Winfield Consumer Products Inc.
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales

Nathan Kunzman – Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
James Lawrence – Power TV Media
L.J. Lobsinger – Specialty Auto Parts USA Inc.
Trey Owen – Earl Owen Co. Inc.
Josh Pendolphia – KAM Marketing Inc.
Cary Redman – Prestolite Performance/Mr. Gasket
Robert Wityczak – Grant Products International Inc. – Incumbent


YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting

3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

YEN Reception

 

5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

Congratulations to Gregory Parker!

 

Gregory Parker from Martin & Company Advertising has been elected chair-elect of the Young Executives Network (YEN). Parker has served on the YEN Select Committee since 2005 and has been chairman of the SEMA Silent Auction Task Force.

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.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz.

Where's the Hot Rod Industry Headed? Find Out at HRIA Membership Meeting
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.

 

Hot Rod Council Membership to Meet

Dennis Overholser and Rick Love will be taking their new positions as HRIA Chairman and Chair-elect on July 1. They would like to invite and encourage all council member companies and their employees to attend the HRIA membership meeting in Columbus, Ohio, on July 9. The meeting is held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Goodguys PPG Nationals. The meeting location is the Ohio Expo Center in the Expo Building. The meeting begins at 3:00 p.m.

 

Come meet and greet HRIA’s newly seated select committee members and hear what the HRIA is doing for its members. For further information contact Jan Desma, 909/396-0289 x 134.

HRIA Announces Incoming Chair-Elect

On July 1, 2009, the HRIA Select Committee chairmanship will be passed from Jeanette Ladina to the current chair-elect, Dennis Overholser. At that time, a new chair-elect will be installed. Rick Love of Vintage Air has been selected for this position, which will inevitably lead to the chair position in just over two years. During the next two years, Love will be learning and assisting Overholser on the focus and direction of the HRIA Select Committee.

Love is currently the executive vice president of Vintage Air Inc. He has been involved in the hot-rod industry since the late '70s when he built his first hot rod during his senior year in high school. He built several hot rods in the early '80s and began to do A/C installations, which led him to become an authorized dealer and installer for Vintage Air products. Through this association, he began to work with them on product development, which eventually led to a full-time position. Love has been vice president at Vintage Air since 1998.

When asked about his passion for the industry, Love said, "My hobby has evolved into a career, but I also remain a dedicated enthusiast at heart." Love still has the '39 Ford coupe he built in 1984, and it has more than 140,000 miles on it so far. Love also has a '32 Ford coupe and a '72 Camaro RS Pro Touring car, both of which are driven regularly.

To round out his life, Love and his wife Linda, whom he has been married to for 15 years, have a 13-year-old son Matt. "My other hobbies are sports, especially basketball, and I enjoy being involved with my son’s sports activities," said Love.

Love has been an HRIA Select Committee member since 2005 and said, "I am looking forward to moving into the chair-elect position in July. I think two of the most important issues ahead for our industry are continuing to promote youth involvement and focusing on legislation that will encourage the growth of our hobby and industry.

The next generation of passionate car guys and car gals are the key to sustaining the steady growth that we have enjoyed. It is equally important that we have consistent processes and legislation throughout the country to register and license our specialty vehicles so that we may continue to drive and enjoy them."

Love believes that SEMA and its councils such as HRIA can help mobilize support for these issues and keep them in the forefront.

Six Seats Open for HRIA Select Committee

Nominations for a seat on the HRIA Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009. HRIA member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each HRIA member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Del Austin – Egge Machine Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring – Incumbent
Douglas Frymer – Law Office of Douglas A. Frymer
Ray Gorman – Stainless Steel Brakes Corp.
Michael Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Bob Millard – Championship Auto Show/ISCA
Eric Saltrick – Steele Rubber Products – Incumbent
Vince Sica – Power Master (MCI Inc.)
Bret Voelkel – Air Ride Technologies

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time to give back to the 300+ HRIA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of the entire HRIA membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique alliance.

Each HRIA company will be asked to vote for six of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all the candidates well with their election campaigns.

Questions regarding HRIA council elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Dennis Overholser at 817/244-6212 x1008 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

HRIA Industry Awards Reception

5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Closed Select Committee Meeting

 

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma.

 


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Six Seats Open for ARMO Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the ARMO Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009.

ARMO member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each ARMO-member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Cliff Carr – Parts Unlimited Inc. (PUI)
Jim Christina – Dynacorn International Inc.
Eric DeTaeye – Legendary Auto Interiors
Jonathan Klinger – Hagerty Insurance
Bob Lichty – Motorcar Portfolio LLC
Roger Niehaus – Auto Custom Carpets – Incumbent
Sandy Patterson – Source Interlink Media – Incumbent
Lenny Schaeffer – Chop Shop Customs
Jim Vinarski – Carlisle Productions – Incumbent
Harry Weimann – WyoTech
Jeff Yager – Hemmings Motor News

The Perfect Storm Hits Spring Carlisle Car Show

There was a convergence of forces at the Carlisle Spring Swap Meet. Beautiful weather, large vendor participation and a huge crowd made this a perfect storm. At the center of it all was the ARMO New Products Showcase tent. The showcase featured 64 new items submitted by ARMO members—a new record. From sheetmetal to electronics, hardware to weather stripping, the tent had what car people crave—new stuff. A constant flow of potential customers was asking, "Where can I buy this?"

The entries were photographed for inclusion in the ARMO booth display at the 2009 SEMA Show. The companies that participated in the New Product Showcase included:

American Autowire
Ames Automotive
Auto Custom Carpets Inc.
Autometal Direct
Bed Wood and Parts LLC
Brew City Engineering
CARS Inc.
Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc.
Classic Industries
Coker Tire
Dakota Digital Inc.
Dynacorn
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc.
Hellwig Products
ididit Inc.
JAE Enterprises Inc.
Just Dashes Inc.
Legendary Auto Interiors, Ltd.
MBM Brake Boosters
Muscle Car Industries
Precision Replacement Parts
Quanta Products LLC
Rare Parts Inc.
REM Automotive Inc.
Shafer's Classic Reproductions
Shiftworks
Steele Rubber Products
Eastwood Company
TrimParts Inc.
Universal Vintage Tire

ARMO Industry Awards Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

ARMO Open Council Meeting


7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

ARMO Roundtable

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about ARMO, contact Jan Desma.


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Select Committee Announces Nominees
TORA is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections. A total of nine seats are open on the Select Committee in the following categories:


Manufacturer Category (three open seats)

 

Bryan Baker – A.R.E. – Incumbent
Bennett Jackson – Husky Liners/Winfield Consumer Products
Mark Krook – Vanguard Manufacturing
Shawn O’Neal – Agri-Cover
Fred Snow – Hella Inc.
Soren Sorensen – Pilot Automotive
John Stethem – Leer Inc. (TAG)

Retailers/Dealers – (five open seats)

 

Charlie Card – Vehicle Accessories
Peggy Goss – Goss Camper Sales
Casey Miser – All American Truck & SUV Accessory Center
Chris Ripper – Chux Trux
Ron Towry – Truck Gear SuperCenter
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

Media/WD/Rep – (one open seat)

 

Nick Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
John Iannotte – N.A. Williams Co. Performance Accessory Division
Zan Martin – Martin & Co. Advertising

TORA Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. Ballots were e-mailed to the TORA membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until Tuesday, June 16. 

 

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

TORA members can pack plenty of activity around this year’s annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting. Scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., the meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser at the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, August 1. The SEMA Pinewood Drag Race and the SEMA Show 'N Shine car show are also on tap for that day.

Sandwiched between the Thursday LRP meeting and Saturday’s SEMA festivities at the Convention Center, Friday is available for attendees to see West Coast clients or spend a free day in Old Town Pasadena. Old Town is filled with an eclectic mix of shops, stores and restaurants that easily make a full day of sightseeing within walking distance of the Westin and Convention Center.

“This is a tough year for everyone,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “A West Coast trip may not make sense on the surface, but we wanted to hold the meeting in conjunction with some other event so that members could combine two trips into one. With the postponement of the TSTC in March, the only other big event coming up is the SEMA Show in November.

 

"At the SEMA Show, everyone is already overwhelmed, and it’s really not a good venue at which to conduct long-range planning. While this may keep some of our East Coast and Midwest companies from attending, on a positive note we’re hoping that some of the West Coast members, who rarely come east for an LRP, can attend this year’s meeting.”

Please contact TORA Staff Liaison Jim Skelly for more information.


TORA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

TORA Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


George Lathouris Named TORA Chair-Elect


The TORA Select Committee has named Keystone’s George Lathouris as its chair-elect. Lathouris will assume his new responsibilities on July 1, when Kelly Kneifl assumes the duties of chairman from current Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. Congratulations to George!

 

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read TORA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.




Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.
MPMC Select Committee Nominees
MPMC is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections.

Rich Barsamian – Grant Products Incumbent
Billy Carroll – Incumbent
Steve Matusek – Aeromotive Inc.
Peter Medina – Synapse Engineering
Marla Moore – Hypertech Incumbent
Todd Ryden – MSD Incumbent
Vince Sica – Powermaster Performance
Tyler Tanaka – Turbonetics
Vic Wood – Hedman Manufacturing

MPMC Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. The eballot will contain instructions on completing the ballot, a short bio of each candidate and the list of candidates for voting. An eballot was e-mailed to the MPMC membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until June 16. One eballot only will be e-mailed to each MPMC member company, specifically the council contact listed in the SEMA membership database.

If you have any questions concerning the MPMC Select Committee election, please contact Jim Skelly.
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News


Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

 



Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting their annual Long-Range Planning Meeting at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 1:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Dinner will be served. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the specialty-equipment industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps. For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104 by Friday, August 28, 2009.

8th Annual MRC Rep Conference

In these turbulent times, don’t just survive—thrive! Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of MANA, will present an open and interactive session addressing our industry's biggest challenges in these turbulent times. This event will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres, compliments of the MRC Select Committee and PWA. Download your registration form to reserve your seat for this event. For more information, visit www.sema.org/MRC or contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

Seven Seats Open for MRC Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the MRC Select Committee will take place the week of May 25, 2009. This year, ballots will be sent out electronically to each MRC member company. Each MRC member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the MRC slate:

Mark Adin – PSKB
Alan Adlam – J.K. Sales
Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Irv Cohen – SS Sales & Marketing – Incumbent
Jim Considine – Considine Sales & Marketing
Bill Eagan – Airheart Sales
Chris Fairless – R & R Marketing Incumbent
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales West
Nathan Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Scott Majors – MBA Marketing Group – Incumbent
Jim Morehouse – All Midwest Sales
Chris Perry – Bill Perry & Associates

Each MRC company will be asked to vote for seven of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their election campaigns. Questions regarding MRC council elections can be directed to SEMA Council Relations Coordinator Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

MRC will be holding its membership meeting and awards ceremony on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost. Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2008 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the 2008 SEMA Show.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

 

 

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 

Don't Miss Out!


There is still time to register for the annual PRO Project Planning Meeting scheduled for next Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, in the Motor City, Detroit, Michigan. The Crown Plaza Hotel, minutes from the Detroit Metro Airport, will once again host the event and is offering a blocked out room rate of only $115 for meeting attendees.

PRO is honored to have representatives from Ford, GM and Mopar on hand to conduct a panel discussion with meeting attendees, beginning at 11 am. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to exchange information directly with the OEMs!

 

Following this panel discussion and lunch, attendees will break out into smaller groups for specific topic discussions. A cocktail reception in the hotel from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. precedes a tour of the Ford F-150 assembly plant on Thursday evening. Breakout groups reconvene on Friday morning and then report back to the group at 10:00 a.m. The planning session adjourns at 11:00 a.m., allowing plenty of time for everyone to catch those afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas, and plan for solutions, than at the PRO Project Planning meeting. If you have not made your reservations, please RSVP to Jim Skelly. Contact Manya Petropaki for hotel and/or flight reservations at The Travel Store, manya.p@travelstoreusa.com, or 949/930-9268.

 

Eldon Bracken New Chair Elect of PRO Council
The PRO Select Committee announced that Eldon Bracken of Graphic Mart in Milton, Ontario, Canada, has been elected to the position of Chair Elect. Eldon will assume his new role on July 1, when current Chair Elect Karl Stearns takes over the Council Chair position from Chuck Blum. Congratulations, Eldon!


PRO Closed Select Committee Meeting


3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


PRO General Membership Meeting


7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

Webinar Sponsored by the Street Performance Council

The SPC is sponsoring the “Protecting Your Products With Contracts: Contract Law 101” webinar, presented by Elizabeth McNulty, Dan Rodman and Josie Mollica, Snell & Wilmer LLP, on Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. PDT.

SPC Reception

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz.

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.

 

10 Seats Open for SBN Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the SBN Select Committee will take place the week of May 18, 2009.

 

Seven of the seats will be for a two-year term and three of the seats will be for a one-year term.

Individual SBN members should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly.

Each SBN member is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Vicki Archila – R & R Marketing Consultants
Nan Kevin Gelhard – Summit Racing Equipment
Erin Gilhuly – Toyota Motor Sales
Jessica Grindle – Advanstar Communications
Cheralyn Hale – Advanced Clutch Technology
Julie Helms – Edgenet Inc. (Big Hammer)
Gigi Ho – Digital Performance Inc.
Anne Johnson – Keystone Automotive Operations
Melissa Lawrence – Power TV Media – Incumbent
Nancy Loetfering – Davert Tools Inc. – Incumbent
Laurie Marcellus – Trans American Auto Parts LLC Off Road Adventures

Cathi J. Robbe – Colorado State University
Trina Wilson – DCi – Incumbent
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time and give back to the 270+ SBN members and SEMA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of our membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique network of members.

Each SBN individual member will be asked to vote for 10 of these exceptional dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their campaign efforts.

Questions regarding SBN committee elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Tammy Holland at 901/375-3451 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

 

SBN Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SEMA Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

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.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.

 

WTC Open Meeting

 

1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

WTC Reception


5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.

 

YEN Announces Select Committee Candidates

Ballots were sent out electronically Friday, May 22.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Kris Carlson – Auto Meter Products Inc.
Ashley Chalk – Auto Club Speedway of Southern California – Incumbent
Casey Coker – Coker Tire Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring Inc. – Incumbent
Dan Dolan – DiabloSport Inc.
Ron Ezzell Jr. – Custom Logistics Inc.
Jason Fink – Advantage Truck Accessories Inc.
Kevin German – Ground Force Suspension
Chris Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
Eddie Hamilton – Bob Cook Sales
Bennett Jackson – Winfield Consumer Products Inc.
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales

Nathan Kunzman – Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
James Lawrence – Power TV Media
L.J. Lobsinger – Specialty Auto Parts USA Inc.
Trey Owen – Earl Owen Co. Inc.
Josh Pendolphia – KAM Marketing Inc.
Cary Redman – Prestolite Performance/Mr. Gasket
Robert Wityczak – Grant Products International Inc. – Incumbent


YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting

3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

YEN Reception

 

5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

Congratulations to Gregory Parker!

 

Gregory Parker from Martin & Company Advertising has been elected chair-elect of the Young Executives Network (YEN). Parker has served on the YEN Select Committee since 2005 and has been chairman of the SEMA Silent Auction Task Force.

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.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz.

Where's the Hot Rod Industry Headed? Find Out at HRIA Membership Meeting
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.

 

Hot Rod Council Membership to Meet

Dennis Overholser and Rick Love will be taking their new positions as HRIA Chairman and Chair-elect on July 1. They would like to invite and encourage all council member companies and their employees to attend the HRIA membership meeting in Columbus, Ohio, on July 9. The meeting is held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Goodguys PPG Nationals. The meeting location is the Ohio Expo Center in the Expo Building. The meeting begins at 3:00 p.m.

 

Come meet and greet HRIA’s newly seated select committee members and hear what the HRIA is doing for its members. For further information contact Jan Desma, 909/396-0289 x 134.

HRIA Announces Incoming Chair-Elect

On July 1, 2009, the HRIA Select Committee chairmanship will be passed from Jeanette Ladina to the current chair-elect, Dennis Overholser. At that time, a new chair-elect will be installed. Rick Love of Vintage Air has been selected for this position, which will inevitably lead to the chair position in just over two years. During the next two years, Love will be learning and assisting Overholser on the focus and direction of the HRIA Select Committee.

Love is currently the executive vice president of Vintage Air Inc. He has been involved in the hot-rod industry since the late '70s when he built his first hot rod during his senior year in high school. He built several hot rods in the early '80s and began to do A/C installations, which led him to become an authorized dealer and installer for Vintage Air products. Through this association, he began to work with them on product development, which eventually led to a full-time position. Love has been vice president at Vintage Air since 1998.

When asked about his passion for the industry, Love said, "My hobby has evolved into a career, but I also remain a dedicated enthusiast at heart." Love still has the '39 Ford coupe he built in 1984, and it has more than 140,000 miles on it so far. Love also has a '32 Ford coupe and a '72 Camaro RS Pro Touring car, both of which are driven regularly.

To round out his life, Love and his wife Linda, whom he has been married to for 15 years, have a 13-year-old son Matt. "My other hobbies are sports, especially basketball, and I enjoy being involved with my son’s sports activities," said Love.

Love has been an HRIA Select Committee member since 2005 and said, "I am looking forward to moving into the chair-elect position in July. I think two of the most important issues ahead for our industry are continuing to promote youth involvement and focusing on legislation that will encourage the growth of our hobby and industry.

The next generation of passionate car guys and car gals are the key to sustaining the steady growth that we have enjoyed. It is equally important that we have consistent processes and legislation throughout the country to register and license our specialty vehicles so that we may continue to drive and enjoy them."

Love believes that SEMA and its councils such as HRIA can help mobilize support for these issues and keep them in the forefront.

Six Seats Open for HRIA Select Committee

Nominations for a seat on the HRIA Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009. HRIA member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each HRIA member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Del Austin – Egge Machine Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring – Incumbent
Douglas Frymer – Law Office of Douglas A. Frymer
Ray Gorman – Stainless Steel Brakes Corp.
Michael Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Bob Millard – Championship Auto Show/ISCA
Eric Saltrick – Steele Rubber Products – Incumbent
Vince Sica – Power Master (MCI Inc.)
Bret Voelkel – Air Ride Technologies

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time to give back to the 300+ HRIA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of the entire HRIA membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique alliance.

Each HRIA company will be asked to vote for six of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all the candidates well with their election campaigns.

Questions regarding HRIA council elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Dennis Overholser at 817/244-6212 x1008 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

HRIA Industry Awards Reception

5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Closed Select Committee Meeting

 

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma.

 


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Six Seats Open for ARMO Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the ARMO Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009.

ARMO member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each ARMO-member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Cliff Carr – Parts Unlimited Inc. (PUI)
Jim Christina – Dynacorn International Inc.
Eric DeTaeye – Legendary Auto Interiors
Jonathan Klinger – Hagerty Insurance
Bob Lichty – Motorcar Portfolio LLC
Roger Niehaus – Auto Custom Carpets – Incumbent
Sandy Patterson – Source Interlink Media – Incumbent
Lenny Schaeffer – Chop Shop Customs
Jim Vinarski – Carlisle Productions – Incumbent
Harry Weimann – WyoTech
Jeff Yager – Hemmings Motor News

The Perfect Storm Hits Spring Carlisle Car Show

There was a convergence of forces at the Carlisle Spring Swap Meet. Beautiful weather, large vendor participation and a huge crowd made this a perfect storm. At the center of it all was the ARMO New Products Showcase tent. The showcase featured 64 new items submitted by ARMO members—a new record. From sheetmetal to electronics, hardware to weather stripping, the tent had what car people crave—new stuff. A constant flow of potential customers was asking, "Where can I buy this?"

The entries were photographed for inclusion in the ARMO booth display at the 2009 SEMA Show. The companies that participated in the New Product Showcase included:

American Autowire
Ames Automotive
Auto Custom Carpets Inc.
Autometal Direct
Bed Wood and Parts LLC
Brew City Engineering
CARS Inc.
Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc.
Classic Industries
Coker Tire
Dakota Digital Inc.
Dynacorn
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc.
Hellwig Products
ididit Inc.
JAE Enterprises Inc.
Just Dashes Inc.
Legendary Auto Interiors, Ltd.
MBM Brake Boosters
Muscle Car Industries
Precision Replacement Parts
Quanta Products LLC
Rare Parts Inc.
REM Automotive Inc.
Shafer's Classic Reproductions
Shiftworks
Steele Rubber Products
Eastwood Company
TrimParts Inc.
Universal Vintage Tire

ARMO Industry Awards Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

ARMO Open Council Meeting


7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

ARMO Roundtable

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about ARMO, contact Jan Desma.


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Select Committee Announces Nominees
TORA is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections. A total of nine seats are open on the Select Committee in the following categories:


Manufacturer Category (three open seats)

 

Bryan Baker – A.R.E. – Incumbent
Bennett Jackson – Husky Liners/Winfield Consumer Products
Mark Krook – Vanguard Manufacturing
Shawn O’Neal – Agri-Cover
Fred Snow – Hella Inc.
Soren Sorensen – Pilot Automotive
John Stethem – Leer Inc. (TAG)

Retailers/Dealers – (five open seats)

 

Charlie Card – Vehicle Accessories
Peggy Goss – Goss Camper Sales
Casey Miser – All American Truck & SUV Accessory Center
Chris Ripper – Chux Trux
Ron Towry – Truck Gear SuperCenter
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

Media/WD/Rep – (one open seat)

 

Nick Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
John Iannotte – N.A. Williams Co. Performance Accessory Division
Zan Martin – Martin & Co. Advertising

TORA Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. Ballots were e-mailed to the TORA membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until Tuesday, June 16. 

 

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

TORA members can pack plenty of activity around this year’s annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting. Scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., the meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser at the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, August 1. The SEMA Pinewood Drag Race and the SEMA Show 'N Shine car show are also on tap for that day.

Sandwiched between the Thursday LRP meeting and Saturday’s SEMA festivities at the Convention Center, Friday is available for attendees to see West Coast clients or spend a free day in Old Town Pasadena. Old Town is filled with an eclectic mix of shops, stores and restaurants that easily make a full day of sightseeing within walking distance of the Westin and Convention Center.

“This is a tough year for everyone,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “A West Coast trip may not make sense on the surface, but we wanted to hold the meeting in conjunction with some other event so that members could combine two trips into one. With the postponement of the TSTC in March, the only other big event coming up is the SEMA Show in November.

 

"At the SEMA Show, everyone is already overwhelmed, and it’s really not a good venue at which to conduct long-range planning. While this may keep some of our East Coast and Midwest companies from attending, on a positive note we’re hoping that some of the West Coast members, who rarely come east for an LRP, can attend this year’s meeting.”

Please contact TORA Staff Liaison Jim Skelly for more information.


TORA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

TORA Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


George Lathouris Named TORA Chair-Elect


The TORA Select Committee has named Keystone’s George Lathouris as its chair-elect. Lathouris will assume his new responsibilities on July 1, when Kelly Kneifl assumes the duties of chairman from current Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. Congratulations to George!

 

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read TORA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.




Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.
MPMC Select Committee Nominees
MPMC is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections.

Rich Barsamian – Grant Products Incumbent
Billy Carroll – Incumbent
Steve Matusek – Aeromotive Inc.
Peter Medina – Synapse Engineering
Marla Moore – Hypertech Incumbent
Todd Ryden – MSD Incumbent
Vince Sica – Powermaster Performance
Tyler Tanaka – Turbonetics
Vic Wood – Hedman Manufacturing

MPMC Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. The eballot will contain instructions on completing the ballot, a short bio of each candidate and the list of candidates for voting. An eballot was e-mailed to the MPMC membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until June 16. One eballot only will be e-mailed to each MPMC member company, specifically the council contact listed in the SEMA membership database.

If you have any questions concerning the MPMC Select Committee election, please contact Jim Skelly.
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News


Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

 



Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting their annual Long-Range Planning Meeting at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 1:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Dinner will be served. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the specialty-equipment industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps. For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104 by Friday, August 28, 2009.

8th Annual MRC Rep Conference

In these turbulent times, don’t just survive—thrive! Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of MANA, will present an open and interactive session addressing our industry's biggest challenges in these turbulent times. This event will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres, compliments of the MRC Select Committee and PWA. Download your registration form to reserve your seat for this event. For more information, visit www.sema.org/MRC or contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

Seven Seats Open for MRC Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the MRC Select Committee will take place the week of May 25, 2009. This year, ballots will be sent out electronically to each MRC member company. Each MRC member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the MRC slate:

Mark Adin – PSKB
Alan Adlam – J.K. Sales
Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Irv Cohen – SS Sales & Marketing – Incumbent
Jim Considine – Considine Sales & Marketing
Bill Eagan – Airheart Sales
Chris Fairless – R & R Marketing Incumbent
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales West
Nathan Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Scott Majors – MBA Marketing Group – Incumbent
Jim Morehouse – All Midwest Sales
Chris Perry – Bill Perry & Associates

Each MRC company will be asked to vote for seven of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their election campaigns. Questions regarding MRC council elections can be directed to SEMA Council Relations Coordinator Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

MRC will be holding its membership meeting and awards ceremony on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost. Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2008 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the 2008 SEMA Show.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

 

 

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 

Don't Miss Out!


There is still time to register for the annual PRO Project Planning Meeting scheduled for next Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, in the Motor City, Detroit, Michigan. The Crown Plaza Hotel, minutes from the Detroit Metro Airport, will once again host the event and is offering a blocked out room rate of only $115 for meeting attendees.

PRO is honored to have representatives from Ford, GM and Mopar on hand to conduct a panel discussion with meeting attendees, beginning at 11 am. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to exchange information directly with the OEMs!

 

Following this panel discussion and lunch, attendees will break out into smaller groups for specific topic discussions. A cocktail reception in the hotel from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. precedes a tour of the Ford F-150 assembly plant on Thursday evening. Breakout groups reconvene on Friday morning and then report back to the group at 10:00 a.m. The planning session adjourns at 11:00 a.m., allowing plenty of time for everyone to catch those afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas, and plan for solutions, than at the PRO Project Planning meeting. If you have not made your reservations, please RSVP to Jim Skelly. Contact Manya Petropaki for hotel and/or flight reservations at The Travel Store, manya.p@travelstoreusa.com, or 949/930-9268.

 

Eldon Bracken New Chair Elect of PRO Council
The PRO Select Committee announced that Eldon Bracken of Graphic Mart in Milton, Ontario, Canada, has been elected to the position of Chair Elect. Eldon will assume his new role on July 1, when current Chair Elect Karl Stearns takes over the Council Chair position from Chuck Blum. Congratulations, Eldon!


PRO Closed Select Committee Meeting


3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


PRO General Membership Meeting


7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

Webinar Sponsored by the Street Performance Council

The SPC is sponsoring the “Protecting Your Products With Contracts: Contract Law 101” webinar, presented by Elizabeth McNulty, Dan Rodman and Josie Mollica, Snell & Wilmer LLP, on Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. PDT.

SPC Reception

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz.

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.

 

10 Seats Open for SBN Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the SBN Select Committee will take place the week of May 18, 2009.

 

Seven of the seats will be for a two-year term and three of the seats will be for a one-year term.

Individual SBN members should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly.

Each SBN member is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Vicki Archila – R & R Marketing Consultants
Nan Kevin Gelhard – Summit Racing Equipment
Erin Gilhuly – Toyota Motor Sales
Jessica Grindle – Advanstar Communications
Cheralyn Hale – Advanced Clutch Technology
Julie Helms – Edgenet Inc. (Big Hammer)
Gigi Ho – Digital Performance Inc.
Anne Johnson – Keystone Automotive Operations
Melissa Lawrence – Power TV Media – Incumbent
Nancy Loetfering – Davert Tools Inc. – Incumbent
Laurie Marcellus – Trans American Auto Parts LLC Off Road Adventures

Cathi J. Robbe – Colorado State University
Trina Wilson – DCi – Incumbent
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time and give back to the 270+ SBN members and SEMA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of our membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique network of members.

Each SBN individual member will be asked to vote for 10 of these exceptional dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their campaign efforts.

Questions regarding SBN committee elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Tammy Holland at 901/375-3451 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

 

SBN Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SEMA Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

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.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.

 

WTC Open Meeting

 

1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

WTC Reception


5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.

 

YEN Announces Select Committee Candidates

Ballots were sent out electronically Friday, May 22.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Kris Carlson – Auto Meter Products Inc.
Ashley Chalk – Auto Club Speedway of Southern California – Incumbent
Casey Coker – Coker Tire Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring Inc. – Incumbent
Dan Dolan – DiabloSport Inc.
Ron Ezzell Jr. – Custom Logistics Inc.
Jason Fink – Advantage Truck Accessories Inc.
Kevin German – Ground Force Suspension
Chris Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
Eddie Hamilton – Bob Cook Sales
Bennett Jackson – Winfield Consumer Products Inc.
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales

Nathan Kunzman – Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
James Lawrence – Power TV Media
L.J. Lobsinger – Specialty Auto Parts USA Inc.
Trey Owen – Earl Owen Co. Inc.
Josh Pendolphia – KAM Marketing Inc.
Cary Redman – Prestolite Performance/Mr. Gasket
Robert Wityczak – Grant Products International Inc. – Incumbent


YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting

3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

YEN Reception

 

5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

Congratulations to Gregory Parker!

 

Gregory Parker from Martin & Company Advertising has been elected chair-elect of the Young Executives Network (YEN). Parker has served on the YEN Select Committee since 2005 and has been chairman of the SEMA Silent Auction Task Force.

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.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz.

Where's the Hot Rod Industry Headed? Find Out at HRIA Membership Meeting
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.

 

Hot Rod Council Membership to Meet

Dennis Overholser and Rick Love will be taking their new positions as HRIA Chairman and Chair-elect on July 1. They would like to invite and encourage all council member companies and their employees to attend the HRIA membership meeting in Columbus, Ohio, on July 9. The meeting is held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Goodguys PPG Nationals. The meeting location is the Ohio Expo Center in the Expo Building. The meeting begins at 3:00 p.m.

 

Come meet and greet HRIA’s newly seated select committee members and hear what the HRIA is doing for its members. For further information contact Jan Desma, 909/396-0289 x 134.

HRIA Announces Incoming Chair-Elect

On July 1, 2009, the HRIA Select Committee chairmanship will be passed from Jeanette Ladina to the current chair-elect, Dennis Overholser. At that time, a new chair-elect will be installed. Rick Love of Vintage Air has been selected for this position, which will inevitably lead to the chair position in just over two years. During the next two years, Love will be learning and assisting Overholser on the focus and direction of the HRIA Select Committee.

Love is currently the executive vice president of Vintage Air Inc. He has been involved in the hot-rod industry since the late '70s when he built his first hot rod during his senior year in high school. He built several hot rods in the early '80s and began to do A/C installations, which led him to become an authorized dealer and installer for Vintage Air products. Through this association, he began to work with them on product development, which eventually led to a full-time position. Love has been vice president at Vintage Air since 1998.

When asked about his passion for the industry, Love said, "My hobby has evolved into a career, but I also remain a dedicated enthusiast at heart." Love still has the '39 Ford coupe he built in 1984, and it has more than 140,000 miles on it so far. Love also has a '32 Ford coupe and a '72 Camaro RS Pro Touring car, both of which are driven regularly.

To round out his life, Love and his wife Linda, whom he has been married to for 15 years, have a 13-year-old son Matt. "My other hobbies are sports, especially basketball, and I enjoy being involved with my son’s sports activities," said Love.

Love has been an HRIA Select Committee member since 2005 and said, "I am looking forward to moving into the chair-elect position in July. I think two of the most important issues ahead for our industry are continuing to promote youth involvement and focusing on legislation that will encourage the growth of our hobby and industry.

The next generation of passionate car guys and car gals are the key to sustaining the steady growth that we have enjoyed. It is equally important that we have consistent processes and legislation throughout the country to register and license our specialty vehicles so that we may continue to drive and enjoy them."

Love believes that SEMA and its councils such as HRIA can help mobilize support for these issues and keep them in the forefront.

Six Seats Open for HRIA Select Committee

Nominations for a seat on the HRIA Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009. HRIA member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each HRIA member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Del Austin – Egge Machine Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring – Incumbent
Douglas Frymer – Law Office of Douglas A. Frymer
Ray Gorman – Stainless Steel Brakes Corp.
Michael Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Bob Millard – Championship Auto Show/ISCA
Eric Saltrick – Steele Rubber Products – Incumbent
Vince Sica – Power Master (MCI Inc.)
Bret Voelkel – Air Ride Technologies

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time to give back to the 300+ HRIA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of the entire HRIA membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique alliance.

Each HRIA company will be asked to vote for six of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all the candidates well with their election campaigns.

Questions regarding HRIA council elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Dennis Overholser at 817/244-6212 x1008 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

HRIA Industry Awards Reception

5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Closed Select Committee Meeting

 

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma.

 


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Six Seats Open for ARMO Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the ARMO Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009.

ARMO member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each ARMO-member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Cliff Carr – Parts Unlimited Inc. (PUI)
Jim Christina – Dynacorn International Inc.
Eric DeTaeye – Legendary Auto Interiors
Jonathan Klinger – Hagerty Insurance
Bob Lichty – Motorcar Portfolio LLC
Roger Niehaus – Auto Custom Carpets – Incumbent
Sandy Patterson – Source Interlink Media – Incumbent
Lenny Schaeffer – Chop Shop Customs
Jim Vinarski – Carlisle Productions – Incumbent
Harry Weimann – WyoTech
Jeff Yager – Hemmings Motor News

The Perfect Storm Hits Spring Carlisle Car Show

There was a convergence of forces at the Carlisle Spring Swap Meet. Beautiful weather, large vendor participation and a huge crowd made this a perfect storm. At the center of it all was the ARMO New Products Showcase tent. The showcase featured 64 new items submitted by ARMO members—a new record. From sheetmetal to electronics, hardware to weather stripping, the tent had what car people crave—new stuff. A constant flow of potential customers was asking, "Where can I buy this?"

The entries were photographed for inclusion in the ARMO booth display at the 2009 SEMA Show. The companies that participated in the New Product Showcase included:

American Autowire
Ames Automotive
Auto Custom Carpets Inc.
Autometal Direct
Bed Wood and Parts LLC
Brew City Engineering
CARS Inc.
Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc.
Classic Industries
Coker Tire
Dakota Digital Inc.
Dynacorn
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc.
Hellwig Products
ididit Inc.
JAE Enterprises Inc.
Just Dashes Inc.
Legendary Auto Interiors, Ltd.
MBM Brake Boosters
Muscle Car Industries
Precision Replacement Parts
Quanta Products LLC
Rare Parts Inc.
REM Automotive Inc.
Shafer's Classic Reproductions
Shiftworks
Steele Rubber Products
Eastwood Company
TrimParts Inc.
Universal Vintage Tire

ARMO Industry Awards Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

ARMO Open Council Meeting


7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

ARMO Roundtable

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about ARMO, contact Jan Desma.


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Select Committee Announces Nominees
TORA is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections. A total of nine seats are open on the Select Committee in the following categories:


Manufacturer Category (three open seats)

 

Bryan Baker – A.R.E. – Incumbent
Bennett Jackson – Husky Liners/Winfield Consumer Products
Mark Krook – Vanguard Manufacturing
Shawn O’Neal – Agri-Cover
Fred Snow – Hella Inc.
Soren Sorensen – Pilot Automotive
John Stethem – Leer Inc. (TAG)

Retailers/Dealers – (five open seats)

 

Charlie Card – Vehicle Accessories
Peggy Goss – Goss Camper Sales
Casey Miser – All American Truck & SUV Accessory Center
Chris Ripper – Chux Trux
Ron Towry – Truck Gear SuperCenter
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

Media/WD/Rep – (one open seat)

 

Nick Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
John Iannotte – N.A. Williams Co. Performance Accessory Division
Zan Martin – Martin & Co. Advertising

TORA Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. Ballots were e-mailed to the TORA membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until Tuesday, June 16. 

 

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

TORA members can pack plenty of activity around this year’s annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting. Scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., the meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser at the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, August 1. The SEMA Pinewood Drag Race and the SEMA Show 'N Shine car show are also on tap for that day.

Sandwiched between the Thursday LRP meeting and Saturday’s SEMA festivities at the Convention Center, Friday is available for attendees to see West Coast clients or spend a free day in Old Town Pasadena. Old Town is filled with an eclectic mix of shops, stores and restaurants that easily make a full day of sightseeing within walking distance of the Westin and Convention Center.

“This is a tough year for everyone,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “A West Coast trip may not make sense on the surface, but we wanted to hold the meeting in conjunction with some other event so that members could combine two trips into one. With the postponement of the TSTC in March, the only other big event coming up is the SEMA Show in November.

 

"At the SEMA Show, everyone is already overwhelmed, and it’s really not a good venue at which to conduct long-range planning. While this may keep some of our East Coast and Midwest companies from attending, on a positive note we’re hoping that some of the West Coast members, who rarely come east for an LRP, can attend this year’s meeting.”

Please contact TORA Staff Liaison Jim Skelly for more information.


TORA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

TORA Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


George Lathouris Named TORA Chair-Elect


The TORA Select Committee has named Keystone’s George Lathouris as its chair-elect. Lathouris will assume his new responsibilities on July 1, when Kelly Kneifl assumes the duties of chairman from current Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. Congratulations to George!

 

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read TORA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.




Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.
MPMC Select Committee Nominees
MPMC is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections.

Rich Barsamian – Grant Products Incumbent
Billy Carroll – Incumbent
Steve Matusek – Aeromotive Inc.
Peter Medina – Synapse Engineering
Marla Moore – Hypertech Incumbent
Todd Ryden – MSD Incumbent
Vince Sica – Powermaster Performance
Tyler Tanaka – Turbonetics
Vic Wood – Hedman Manufacturing

MPMC Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. The eballot will contain instructions on completing the ballot, a short bio of each candidate and the list of candidates for voting. An eballot was e-mailed to the MPMC membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until June 16. One eballot only will be e-mailed to each MPMC member company, specifically the council contact listed in the SEMA membership database.

If you have any questions concerning the MPMC Select Committee election, please contact Jim Skelly.
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News


Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

 



Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting their annual Long-Range Planning Meeting at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 1:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Dinner will be served. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the specialty-equipment industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps. For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104 by Friday, August 28, 2009.

8th Annual MRC Rep Conference

In these turbulent times, don’t just survive—thrive! Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of MANA, will present an open and interactive session addressing our industry's biggest challenges in these turbulent times. This event will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres, compliments of the MRC Select Committee and PWA. Download your registration form to reserve your seat for this event. For more information, visit www.sema.org/MRC or contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

Seven Seats Open for MRC Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the MRC Select Committee will take place the week of May 25, 2009. This year, ballots will be sent out electronically to each MRC member company. Each MRC member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the MRC slate:

Mark Adin – PSKB
Alan Adlam – J.K. Sales
Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Irv Cohen – SS Sales & Marketing – Incumbent
Jim Considine – Considine Sales & Marketing
Bill Eagan – Airheart Sales
Chris Fairless – R & R Marketing Incumbent
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales West
Nathan Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Scott Majors – MBA Marketing Group – Incumbent
Jim Morehouse – All Midwest Sales
Chris Perry – Bill Perry & Associates

Each MRC company will be asked to vote for seven of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their election campaigns. Questions regarding MRC council elections can be directed to SEMA Council Relations Coordinator Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

MRC will be holding its membership meeting and awards ceremony on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost. Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2008 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the 2008 SEMA Show.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

 

 

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 

Don't Miss Out!


There is still time to register for the annual PRO Project Planning Meeting scheduled for next Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, in the Motor City, Detroit, Michigan. The Crown Plaza Hotel, minutes from the Detroit Metro Airport, will once again host the event and is offering a blocked out room rate of only $115 for meeting attendees.

PRO is honored to have representatives from Ford, GM and Mopar on hand to conduct a panel discussion with meeting attendees, beginning at 11 am. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to exchange information directly with the OEMs!

 

Following this panel discussion and lunch, attendees will break out into smaller groups for specific topic discussions. A cocktail reception in the hotel from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. precedes a tour of the Ford F-150 assembly plant on Thursday evening. Breakout groups reconvene on Friday morning and then report back to the group at 10:00 a.m. The planning session adjourns at 11:00 a.m., allowing plenty of time for everyone to catch those afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas, and plan for solutions, than at the PRO Project Planning meeting. If you have not made your reservations, please RSVP to Jim Skelly. Contact Manya Petropaki for hotel and/or flight reservations at The Travel Store, manya.p@travelstoreusa.com, or 949/930-9268.

 

Eldon Bracken New Chair Elect of PRO Council
The PRO Select Committee announced that Eldon Bracken of Graphic Mart in Milton, Ontario, Canada, has been elected to the position of Chair Elect. Eldon will assume his new role on July 1, when current Chair Elect Karl Stearns takes over the Council Chair position from Chuck Blum. Congratulations, Eldon!


PRO Closed Select Committee Meeting


3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


PRO General Membership Meeting


7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

Webinar Sponsored by the Street Performance Council

The SPC is sponsoring the “Protecting Your Products With Contracts: Contract Law 101” webinar, presented by Elizabeth McNulty, Dan Rodman and Josie Mollica, Snell & Wilmer LLP, on Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. PDT.

SPC Reception

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz.

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.

 

10 Seats Open for SBN Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the SBN Select Committee will take place the week of May 18, 2009.

 

Seven of the seats will be for a two-year term and three of the seats will be for a one-year term.

Individual SBN members should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly.

Each SBN member is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Vicki Archila – R & R Marketing Consultants
Nan Kevin Gelhard – Summit Racing Equipment
Erin Gilhuly – Toyota Motor Sales
Jessica Grindle – Advanstar Communications
Cheralyn Hale – Advanced Clutch Technology
Julie Helms – Edgenet Inc. (Big Hammer)
Gigi Ho – Digital Performance Inc.
Anne Johnson – Keystone Automotive Operations
Melissa Lawrence – Power TV Media – Incumbent
Nancy Loetfering – Davert Tools Inc. – Incumbent
Laurie Marcellus – Trans American Auto Parts LLC Off Road Adventures

Cathi J. Robbe – Colorado State University
Trina Wilson – DCi – Incumbent
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time and give back to the 270+ SBN members and SEMA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of our membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique network of members.

Each SBN individual member will be asked to vote for 10 of these exceptional dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their campaign efforts.

Questions regarding SBN committee elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Tammy Holland at 901/375-3451 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

 

SBN Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SEMA Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

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.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.

 

WTC Open Meeting

 

1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

WTC Reception


5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.

 

YEN Announces Select Committee Candidates

Ballots were sent out electronically Friday, May 22.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Kris Carlson – Auto Meter Products Inc.
Ashley Chalk – Auto Club Speedway of Southern California – Incumbent
Casey Coker – Coker Tire Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring Inc. – Incumbent
Dan Dolan – DiabloSport Inc.
Ron Ezzell Jr. – Custom Logistics Inc.
Jason Fink – Advantage Truck Accessories Inc.
Kevin German – Ground Force Suspension
Chris Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
Eddie Hamilton – Bob Cook Sales
Bennett Jackson – Winfield Consumer Products Inc.
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales

Nathan Kunzman – Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
James Lawrence – Power TV Media
L.J. Lobsinger – Specialty Auto Parts USA Inc.
Trey Owen – Earl Owen Co. Inc.
Josh Pendolphia – KAM Marketing Inc.
Cary Redman – Prestolite Performance/Mr. Gasket
Robert Wityczak – Grant Products International Inc. – Incumbent


YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting

3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

YEN Reception

 

5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

Congratulations to Gregory Parker!

 

Gregory Parker from Martin & Company Advertising has been elected chair-elect of the Young Executives Network (YEN). Parker has served on the YEN Select Committee since 2005 and has been chairman of the SEMA Silent Auction Task Force.

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.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz.

Where's the Hot Rod Industry Headed? Find Out at HRIA Membership Meeting
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.

 

Hot Rod Council Membership to Meet

Dennis Overholser and Rick Love will be taking their new positions as HRIA Chairman and Chair-elect on July 1. They would like to invite and encourage all council member companies and their employees to attend the HRIA membership meeting in Columbus, Ohio, on July 9. The meeting is held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Goodguys PPG Nationals. The meeting location is the Ohio Expo Center in the Expo Building. The meeting begins at 3:00 p.m.

 

Come meet and greet HRIA’s newly seated select committee members and hear what the HRIA is doing for its members. For further information contact Jan Desma, 909/396-0289 x 134.

HRIA Announces Incoming Chair-Elect

On July 1, 2009, the HRIA Select Committee chairmanship will be passed from Jeanette Ladina to the current chair-elect, Dennis Overholser. At that time, a new chair-elect will be installed. Rick Love of Vintage Air has been selected for this position, which will inevitably lead to the chair position in just over two years. During the next two years, Love will be learning and assisting Overholser on the focus and direction of the HRIA Select Committee.

Love is currently the executive vice president of Vintage Air Inc. He has been involved in the hot-rod industry since the late '70s when he built his first hot rod during his senior year in high school. He built several hot rods in the early '80s and began to do A/C installations, which led him to become an authorized dealer and installer for Vintage Air products. Through this association, he began to work with them on product development, which eventually led to a full-time position. Love has been vice president at Vintage Air since 1998.

When asked about his passion for the industry, Love said, "My hobby has evolved into a career, but I also remain a dedicated enthusiast at heart." Love still has the '39 Ford coupe he built in 1984, and it has more than 140,000 miles on it so far. Love also has a '32 Ford coupe and a '72 Camaro RS Pro Touring car, both of which are driven regularly.

To round out his life, Love and his wife Linda, whom he has been married to for 15 years, have a 13-year-old son Matt. "My other hobbies are sports, especially basketball, and I enjoy being involved with my son’s sports activities," said Love.

Love has been an HRIA Select Committee member since 2005 and said, "I am looking forward to moving into the chair-elect position in July. I think two of the most important issues ahead for our industry are continuing to promote youth involvement and focusing on legislation that will encourage the growth of our hobby and industry.

The next generation of passionate car guys and car gals are the key to sustaining the steady growth that we have enjoyed. It is equally important that we have consistent processes and legislation throughout the country to register and license our specialty vehicles so that we may continue to drive and enjoy them."

Love believes that SEMA and its councils such as HRIA can help mobilize support for these issues and keep them in the forefront.

Six Seats Open for HRIA Select Committee

Nominations for a seat on the HRIA Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009. HRIA member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each HRIA member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Del Austin – Egge Machine Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring – Incumbent
Douglas Frymer – Law Office of Douglas A. Frymer
Ray Gorman – Stainless Steel Brakes Corp.
Michael Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Bob Millard – Championship Auto Show/ISCA
Eric Saltrick – Steele Rubber Products – Incumbent
Vince Sica – Power Master (MCI Inc.)
Bret Voelkel – Air Ride Technologies

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time to give back to the 300+ HRIA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of the entire HRIA membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique alliance.

Each HRIA company will be asked to vote for six of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all the candidates well with their election campaigns.

Questions regarding HRIA council elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Dennis Overholser at 817/244-6212 x1008 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

HRIA Industry Awards Reception

5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Closed Select Committee Meeting

 

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma.

 


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Six Seats Open for ARMO Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the ARMO Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009.

ARMO member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each ARMO-member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Cliff Carr – Parts Unlimited Inc. (PUI)
Jim Christina – Dynacorn International Inc.
Eric DeTaeye – Legendary Auto Interiors
Jonathan Klinger – Hagerty Insurance
Bob Lichty – Motorcar Portfolio LLC
Roger Niehaus – Auto Custom Carpets – Incumbent
Sandy Patterson – Source Interlink Media – Incumbent
Lenny Schaeffer – Chop Shop Customs
Jim Vinarski – Carlisle Productions – Incumbent
Harry Weimann – WyoTech
Jeff Yager – Hemmings Motor News

The Perfect Storm Hits Spring Carlisle Car Show

There was a convergence of forces at the Carlisle Spring Swap Meet. Beautiful weather, large vendor participation and a huge crowd made this a perfect storm. At the center of it all was the ARMO New Products Showcase tent. The showcase featured 64 new items submitted by ARMO members—a new record. From sheetmetal to electronics, hardware to weather stripping, the tent had what car people crave—new stuff. A constant flow of potential customers was asking, "Where can I buy this?"

The entries were photographed for inclusion in the ARMO booth display at the 2009 SEMA Show. The companies that participated in the New Product Showcase included:

American Autowire
Ames Automotive
Auto Custom Carpets Inc.
Autometal Direct
Bed Wood and Parts LLC
Brew City Engineering
CARS Inc.
Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc.
Classic Industries
Coker Tire
Dakota Digital Inc.
Dynacorn
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc.
Hellwig Products
ididit Inc.
JAE Enterprises Inc.
Just Dashes Inc.
Legendary Auto Interiors, Ltd.
MBM Brake Boosters
Muscle Car Industries
Precision Replacement Parts
Quanta Products LLC
Rare Parts Inc.
REM Automotive Inc.
Shafer's Classic Reproductions
Shiftworks
Steele Rubber Products
Eastwood Company
TrimParts Inc.
Universal Vintage Tire

ARMO Industry Awards Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

ARMO Open Council Meeting


7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

ARMO Roundtable

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about ARMO, contact Jan Desma.


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Select Committee Announces Nominees
TORA is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections. A total of nine seats are open on the Select Committee in the following categories:


Manufacturer Category (three open seats)

 

Bryan Baker – A.R.E. – Incumbent
Bennett Jackson – Husky Liners/Winfield Consumer Products
Mark Krook – Vanguard Manufacturing
Shawn O’Neal – Agri-Cover
Fred Snow – Hella Inc.
Soren Sorensen – Pilot Automotive
John Stethem – Leer Inc. (TAG)

Retailers/Dealers – (five open seats)

 

Charlie Card – Vehicle Accessories
Peggy Goss – Goss Camper Sales
Casey Miser – All American Truck & SUV Accessory Center
Chris Ripper – Chux Trux
Ron Towry – Truck Gear SuperCenter
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

Media/WD/Rep – (one open seat)

 

Nick Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
John Iannotte – N.A. Williams Co. Performance Accessory Division
Zan Martin – Martin & Co. Advertising

TORA Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. Ballots were e-mailed to the TORA membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until Tuesday, June 16. 

 

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

TORA members can pack plenty of activity around this year’s annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting. Scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., the meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser at the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, August 1. The SEMA Pinewood Drag Race and the SEMA Show 'N Shine car show are also on tap for that day.

Sandwiched between the Thursday LRP meeting and Saturday’s SEMA festivities at the Convention Center, Friday is available for attendees to see West Coast clients or spend a free day in Old Town Pasadena. Old Town is filled with an eclectic mix of shops, stores and restaurants that easily make a full day of sightseeing within walking distance of the Westin and Convention Center.

“This is a tough year for everyone,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “A West Coast trip may not make sense on the surface, but we wanted to hold the meeting in conjunction with some other event so that members could combine two trips into one. With the postponement of the TSTC in March, the only other big event coming up is the SEMA Show in November.

 

"At the SEMA Show, everyone is already overwhelmed, and it’s really not a good venue at which to conduct long-range planning. While this may keep some of our East Coast and Midwest companies from attending, on a positive note we’re hoping that some of the West Coast members, who rarely come east for an LRP, can attend this year’s meeting.”

Please contact TORA Staff Liaison Jim Skelly for more information.


TORA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

TORA Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


George Lathouris Named TORA Chair-Elect


The TORA Select Committee has named Keystone’s George Lathouris as its chair-elect. Lathouris will assume his new responsibilities on July 1, when Kelly Kneifl assumes the duties of chairman from current Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. Congratulations to George!

 

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read TORA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.




Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.
MPMC Select Committee Nominees
MPMC is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections.

Rich Barsamian – Grant Products Incumbent
Billy Carroll – Incumbent
Steve Matusek – Aeromotive Inc.
Peter Medina – Synapse Engineering
Marla Moore – Hypertech Incumbent
Todd Ryden – MSD Incumbent
Vince Sica – Powermaster Performance
Tyler Tanaka – Turbonetics
Vic Wood – Hedman Manufacturing

MPMC Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. The eballot will contain instructions on completing the ballot, a short bio of each candidate and the list of candidates for voting. An eballot was e-mailed to the MPMC membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until June 16. One eballot only will be e-mailed to each MPMC member company, specifically the council contact listed in the SEMA membership database.

If you have any questions concerning the MPMC Select Committee election, please contact Jim Skelly.
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News


Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

 



Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting their annual Long-Range Planning Meeting at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 1:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Dinner will be served. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the specialty-equipment industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps. For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104 by Friday, August 28, 2009.

8th Annual MRC Rep Conference

In these turbulent times, don’t just survive—thrive! Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of MANA, will present an open and interactive session addressing our industry's biggest challenges in these turbulent times. This event will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres, compliments of the MRC Select Committee and PWA. Download your registration form to reserve your seat for this event. For more information, visit www.sema.org/MRC or contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

Seven Seats Open for MRC Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the MRC Select Committee will take place the week of May 25, 2009. This year, ballots will be sent out electronically to each MRC member company. Each MRC member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the MRC slate:

Mark Adin – PSKB
Alan Adlam – J.K. Sales
Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Irv Cohen – SS Sales & Marketing – Incumbent
Jim Considine – Considine Sales & Marketing
Bill Eagan – Airheart Sales
Chris Fairless – R & R Marketing Incumbent
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales West
Nathan Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Scott Majors – MBA Marketing Group – Incumbent
Jim Morehouse – All Midwest Sales
Chris Perry – Bill Perry & Associates

Each MRC company will be asked to vote for seven of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their election campaigns. Questions regarding MRC council elections can be directed to SEMA Council Relations Coordinator Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

MRC will be holding its membership meeting and awards ceremony on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost. Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2008 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the 2008 SEMA Show.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

 

 

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 

Don't Miss Out!


There is still time to register for the annual PRO Project Planning Meeting scheduled for next Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, in the Motor City, Detroit, Michigan. The Crown Plaza Hotel, minutes from the Detroit Metro Airport, will once again host the event and is offering a blocked out room rate of only $115 for meeting attendees.

PRO is honored to have representatives from Ford, GM and Mopar on hand to conduct a panel discussion with meeting attendees, beginning at 11 am. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to exchange information directly with the OEMs!

 

Following this panel discussion and lunch, attendees will break out into smaller groups for specific topic discussions. A cocktail reception in the hotel from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. precedes a tour of the Ford F-150 assembly plant on Thursday evening. Breakout groups reconvene on Friday morning and then report back to the group at 10:00 a.m. The planning session adjourns at 11:00 a.m., allowing plenty of time for everyone to catch those afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas, and plan for solutions, than at the PRO Project Planning meeting. If you have not made your reservations, please RSVP to Jim Skelly. Contact Manya Petropaki for hotel and/or flight reservations at The Travel Store, manya.p@travelstoreusa.com, or 949/930-9268.

 

Eldon Bracken New Chair Elect of PRO Council
The PRO Select Committee announced that Eldon Bracken of Graphic Mart in Milton, Ontario, Canada, has been elected to the position of Chair Elect. Eldon will assume his new role on July 1, when current Chair Elect Karl Stearns takes over the Council Chair position from Chuck Blum. Congratulations, Eldon!


PRO Closed Select Committee Meeting


3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


PRO General Membership Meeting


7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

Webinar Sponsored by the Street Performance Council

The SPC is sponsoring the “Protecting Your Products With Contracts: Contract Law 101” webinar, presented by Elizabeth McNulty, Dan Rodman and Josie Mollica, Snell & Wilmer LLP, on Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. PDT.

SPC Reception

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz.

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.

 

10 Seats Open for SBN Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the SBN Select Committee will take place the week of May 18, 2009.

 

Seven of the seats will be for a two-year term and three of the seats will be for a one-year term.

Individual SBN members should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly.

Each SBN member is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Vicki Archila – R & R Marketing Consultants
Nan Kevin Gelhard – Summit Racing Equipment
Erin Gilhuly – Toyota Motor Sales
Jessica Grindle – Advanstar Communications
Cheralyn Hale – Advanced Clutch Technology
Julie Helms – Edgenet Inc. (Big Hammer)
Gigi Ho – Digital Performance Inc.
Anne Johnson – Keystone Automotive Operations
Melissa Lawrence – Power TV Media – Incumbent
Nancy Loetfering – Davert Tools Inc. – Incumbent
Laurie Marcellus – Trans American Auto Parts LLC Off Road Adventures

Cathi J. Robbe – Colorado State University
Trina Wilson – DCi – Incumbent
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time and give back to the 270+ SBN members and SEMA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of our membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique network of members.

Each SBN individual member will be asked to vote for 10 of these exceptional dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their campaign efforts.

Questions regarding SBN committee elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Tammy Holland at 901/375-3451 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

 

SBN Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SEMA Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

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.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.

 

WTC Open Meeting

 

1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

WTC Reception


5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.

 

YEN Announces Select Committee Candidates

Ballots were sent out electronically Friday, May 22.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Kris Carlson – Auto Meter Products Inc.
Ashley Chalk – Auto Club Speedway of Southern California – Incumbent
Casey Coker – Coker Tire Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring Inc. – Incumbent
Dan Dolan – DiabloSport Inc.
Ron Ezzell Jr. – Custom Logistics Inc.
Jason Fink – Advantage Truck Accessories Inc.
Kevin German – Ground Force Suspension
Chris Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
Eddie Hamilton – Bob Cook Sales
Bennett Jackson – Winfield Consumer Products Inc.
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales

Nathan Kunzman – Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
James Lawrence – Power TV Media
L.J. Lobsinger – Specialty Auto Parts USA Inc.
Trey Owen – Earl Owen Co. Inc.
Josh Pendolphia – KAM Marketing Inc.
Cary Redman – Prestolite Performance/Mr. Gasket
Robert Wityczak – Grant Products International Inc. – Incumbent


YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting

3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

YEN Reception

 

5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

Congratulations to Gregory Parker!

 

Gregory Parker from Martin & Company Advertising has been elected chair-elect of the Young Executives Network (YEN). Parker has served on the YEN Select Committee since 2005 and has been chairman of the SEMA Silent Auction Task Force.

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.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz.

Where's the Hot Rod Industry Headed? Find Out at HRIA Membership Meeting
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.

 

Hot Rod Council Membership to Meet

Dennis Overholser and Rick Love will be taking their new positions as HRIA Chairman and Chair-elect on July 1. They would like to invite and encourage all council member companies and their employees to attend the HRIA membership meeting in Columbus, Ohio, on July 9. The meeting is held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Goodguys PPG Nationals. The meeting location is the Ohio Expo Center in the Expo Building. The meeting begins at 3:00 p.m.

 

Come meet and greet HRIA’s newly seated select committee members and hear what the HRIA is doing for its members. For further information contact Jan Desma, 909/396-0289 x 134.

HRIA Announces Incoming Chair-Elect

On July 1, 2009, the HRIA Select Committee chairmanship will be passed from Jeanette Ladina to the current chair-elect, Dennis Overholser. At that time, a new chair-elect will be installed. Rick Love of Vintage Air has been selected for this position, which will inevitably lead to the chair position in just over two years. During the next two years, Love will be learning and assisting Overholser on the focus and direction of the HRIA Select Committee.

Love is currently the executive vice president of Vintage Air Inc. He has been involved in the hot-rod industry since the late '70s when he built his first hot rod during his senior year in high school. He built several hot rods in the early '80s and began to do A/C installations, which led him to become an authorized dealer and installer for Vintage Air products. Through this association, he began to work with them on product development, which eventually led to a full-time position. Love has been vice president at Vintage Air since 1998.

When asked about his passion for the industry, Love said, "My hobby has evolved into a career, but I also remain a dedicated enthusiast at heart." Love still has the '39 Ford coupe he built in 1984, and it has more than 140,000 miles on it so far. Love also has a '32 Ford coupe and a '72 Camaro RS Pro Touring car, both of which are driven regularly.

To round out his life, Love and his wife Linda, whom he has been married to for 15 years, have a 13-year-old son Matt. "My other hobbies are sports, especially basketball, and I enjoy being involved with my son’s sports activities," said Love.

Love has been an HRIA Select Committee member since 2005 and said, "I am looking forward to moving into the chair-elect position in July. I think two of the most important issues ahead for our industry are continuing to promote youth involvement and focusing on legislation that will encourage the growth of our hobby and industry.

The next generation of passionate car guys and car gals are the key to sustaining the steady growth that we have enjoyed. It is equally important that we have consistent processes and legislation throughout the country to register and license our specialty vehicles so that we may continue to drive and enjoy them."

Love believes that SEMA and its councils such as HRIA can help mobilize support for these issues and keep them in the forefront.

Six Seats Open for HRIA Select Committee

Nominations for a seat on the HRIA Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009. HRIA member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each HRIA member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Del Austin – Egge Machine Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring – Incumbent
Douglas Frymer – Law Office of Douglas A. Frymer
Ray Gorman – Stainless Steel Brakes Corp.
Michael Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Bob Millard – Championship Auto Show/ISCA
Eric Saltrick – Steele Rubber Products – Incumbent
Vince Sica – Power Master (MCI Inc.)
Bret Voelkel – Air Ride Technologies

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time to give back to the 300+ HRIA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of the entire HRIA membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique alliance.

Each HRIA company will be asked to vote for six of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all the candidates well with their election campaigns.

Questions regarding HRIA council elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Dennis Overholser at 817/244-6212 x1008 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

HRIA Industry Awards Reception

5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Closed Select Committee Meeting

 

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma.

 


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Six Seats Open for ARMO Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the ARMO Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009.

ARMO member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each ARMO-member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Cliff Carr – Parts Unlimited Inc. (PUI)
Jim Christina – Dynacorn International Inc.
Eric DeTaeye – Legendary Auto Interiors
Jonathan Klinger – Hagerty Insurance
Bob Lichty – Motorcar Portfolio LLC
Roger Niehaus – Auto Custom Carpets – Incumbent
Sandy Patterson – Source Interlink Media – Incumbent
Lenny Schaeffer – Chop Shop Customs
Jim Vinarski – Carlisle Productions – Incumbent
Harry Weimann – WyoTech
Jeff Yager – Hemmings Motor News

The Perfect Storm Hits Spring Carlisle Car Show

There was a convergence of forces at the Carlisle Spring Swap Meet. Beautiful weather, large vendor participation and a huge crowd made this a perfect storm. At the center of it all was the ARMO New Products Showcase tent. The showcase featured 64 new items submitted by ARMO members—a new record. From sheetmetal to electronics, hardware to weather stripping, the tent had what car people crave—new stuff. A constant flow of potential customers was asking, "Where can I buy this?"

The entries were photographed for inclusion in the ARMO booth display at the 2009 SEMA Show. The companies that participated in the New Product Showcase included:

American Autowire
Ames Automotive
Auto Custom Carpets Inc.
Autometal Direct
Bed Wood and Parts LLC
Brew City Engineering
CARS Inc.
Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc.
Classic Industries
Coker Tire
Dakota Digital Inc.
Dynacorn
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc.
Hellwig Products
ididit Inc.
JAE Enterprises Inc.
Just Dashes Inc.
Legendary Auto Interiors, Ltd.
MBM Brake Boosters
Muscle Car Industries
Precision Replacement Parts
Quanta Products LLC
Rare Parts Inc.
REM Automotive Inc.
Shafer's Classic Reproductions
Shiftworks
Steele Rubber Products
Eastwood Company
TrimParts Inc.
Universal Vintage Tire

ARMO Industry Awards Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

ARMO Open Council Meeting


7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

ARMO Roundtable

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about ARMO, contact Jan Desma.


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Select Committee Announces Nominees
TORA is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections. A total of nine seats are open on the Select Committee in the following categories:


Manufacturer Category (three open seats)

 

Bryan Baker – A.R.E. – Incumbent
Bennett Jackson – Husky Liners/Winfield Consumer Products
Mark Krook – Vanguard Manufacturing
Shawn O’Neal – Agri-Cover
Fred Snow – Hella Inc.
Soren Sorensen – Pilot Automotive
John Stethem – Leer Inc. (TAG)

Retailers/Dealers – (five open seats)

 

Charlie Card – Vehicle Accessories
Peggy Goss – Goss Camper Sales
Casey Miser – All American Truck & SUV Accessory Center
Chris Ripper – Chux Trux
Ron Towry – Truck Gear SuperCenter
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

Media/WD/Rep – (one open seat)

 

Nick Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
John Iannotte – N.A. Williams Co. Performance Accessory Division
Zan Martin – Martin & Co. Advertising

TORA Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. Ballots were e-mailed to the TORA membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until Tuesday, June 16. 

 

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

TORA members can pack plenty of activity around this year’s annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting. Scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., the meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser at the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, August 1. The SEMA Pinewood Drag Race and the SEMA Show 'N Shine car show are also on tap for that day.

Sandwiched between the Thursday LRP meeting and Saturday’s SEMA festivities at the Convention Center, Friday is available for attendees to see West Coast clients or spend a free day in Old Town Pasadena. Old Town is filled with an eclectic mix of shops, stores and restaurants that easily make a full day of sightseeing within walking distance of the Westin and Convention Center.

“This is a tough year for everyone,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “A West Coast trip may not make sense on the surface, but we wanted to hold the meeting in conjunction with some other event so that members could combine two trips into one. With the postponement of the TSTC in March, the only other big event coming up is the SEMA Show in November.

 

"At the SEMA Show, everyone is already overwhelmed, and it’s really not a good venue at which to conduct long-range planning. While this may keep some of our East Coast and Midwest companies from attending, on a positive note we’re hoping that some of the West Coast members, who rarely come east for an LRP, can attend this year’s meeting.”

Please contact TORA Staff Liaison Jim Skelly for more information.


TORA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

TORA Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


George Lathouris Named TORA Chair-Elect


The TORA Select Committee has named Keystone’s George Lathouris as its chair-elect. Lathouris will assume his new responsibilities on July 1, when Kelly Kneifl assumes the duties of chairman from current Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. Congratulations to George!

 

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read TORA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.




Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.
MPMC Select Committee Nominees
MPMC is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections.

Rich Barsamian – Grant Products Incumbent
Billy Carroll – Incumbent
Steve Matusek – Aeromotive Inc.
Peter Medina – Synapse Engineering
Marla Moore – Hypertech Incumbent
Todd Ryden – MSD Incumbent
Vince Sica – Powermaster Performance
Tyler Tanaka – Turbonetics
Vic Wood – Hedman Manufacturing

MPMC Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. The eballot will contain instructions on completing the ballot, a short bio of each candidate and the list of candidates for voting. An eballot was e-mailed to the MPMC membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until June 16. One eballot only will be e-mailed to each MPMC member company, specifically the council contact listed in the SEMA membership database.

If you have any questions concerning the MPMC Select Committee election, please contact Jim Skelly.
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News


Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

 



Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting their annual Long-Range Planning Meeting at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 1:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Dinner will be served. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the specialty-equipment industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps. For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104 by Friday, August 28, 2009.

8th Annual MRC Rep Conference

In these turbulent times, don’t just survive—thrive! Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of MANA, will present an open and interactive session addressing our industry's biggest challenges in these turbulent times. This event will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres, compliments of the MRC Select Committee and PWA. Download your registration form to reserve your seat for this event. For more information, visit www.sema.org/MRC or contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

Seven Seats Open for MRC Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the MRC Select Committee will take place the week of May 25, 2009. This year, ballots will be sent out electronically to each MRC member company. Each MRC member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the MRC slate:

Mark Adin – PSKB
Alan Adlam – J.K. Sales
Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Irv Cohen – SS Sales & Marketing – Incumbent
Jim Considine – Considine Sales & Marketing
Bill Eagan – Airheart Sales
Chris Fairless – R & R Marketing Incumbent
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales West
Nathan Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Scott Majors – MBA Marketing Group – Incumbent
Jim Morehouse – All Midwest Sales
Chris Perry – Bill Perry & Associates

Each MRC company will be asked to vote for seven of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their election campaigns. Questions regarding MRC council elections can be directed to SEMA Council Relations Coordinator Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

MRC will be holding its membership meeting and awards ceremony on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost. Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2008 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the 2008 SEMA Show.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

 

 

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 

Don't Miss Out!


There is still time to register for the annual PRO Project Planning Meeting scheduled for next Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, in the Motor City, Detroit, Michigan. The Crown Plaza Hotel, minutes from the Detroit Metro Airport, will once again host the event and is offering a blocked out room rate of only $115 for meeting attendees.

PRO is honored to have representatives from Ford, GM and Mopar on hand to conduct a panel discussion with meeting attendees, beginning at 11 am. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to exchange information directly with the OEMs!

 

Following this panel discussion and lunch, attendees will break out into smaller groups for specific topic discussions. A cocktail reception in the hotel from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. precedes a tour of the Ford F-150 assembly plant on Thursday evening. Breakout groups reconvene on Friday morning and then report back to the group at 10:00 a.m. The planning session adjourns at 11:00 a.m., allowing plenty of time for everyone to catch those afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas, and plan for solutions, than at the PRO Project Planning meeting. If you have not made your reservations, please RSVP to Jim Skelly. Contact Manya Petropaki for hotel and/or flight reservations at The Travel Store, manya.p@travelstoreusa.com, or 949/930-9268.

 

Eldon Bracken New Chair Elect of PRO Council
The PRO Select Committee announced that Eldon Bracken of Graphic Mart in Milton, Ontario, Canada, has been elected to the position of Chair Elect. Eldon will assume his new role on July 1, when current Chair Elect Karl Stearns takes over the Council Chair position from Chuck Blum. Congratulations, Eldon!


PRO Closed Select Committee Meeting


3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


PRO General Membership Meeting


7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

Webinar Sponsored by the Street Performance Council

The SPC is sponsoring the “Protecting Your Products With Contracts: Contract Law 101” webinar, presented by Elizabeth McNulty, Dan Rodman and Josie Mollica, Snell & Wilmer LLP, on Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. PDT.

SPC Reception

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz.

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.

 

10 Seats Open for SBN Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the SBN Select Committee will take place the week of May 18, 2009.

 

Seven of the seats will be for a two-year term and three of the seats will be for a one-year term.

Individual SBN members should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly.

Each SBN member is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Vicki Archila – R & R Marketing Consultants
Nan Kevin Gelhard – Summit Racing Equipment
Erin Gilhuly – Toyota Motor Sales
Jessica Grindle – Advanstar Communications
Cheralyn Hale – Advanced Clutch Technology
Julie Helms – Edgenet Inc. (Big Hammer)
Gigi Ho – Digital Performance Inc.
Anne Johnson – Keystone Automotive Operations
Melissa Lawrence – Power TV Media – Incumbent
Nancy Loetfering – Davert Tools Inc. – Incumbent
Laurie Marcellus – Trans American Auto Parts LLC Off Road Adventures

Cathi J. Robbe – Colorado State University
Trina Wilson – DCi – Incumbent
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time and give back to the 270+ SBN members and SEMA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of our membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique network of members.

Each SBN individual member will be asked to vote for 10 of these exceptional dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their campaign efforts.

Questions regarding SBN committee elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Tammy Holland at 901/375-3451 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

 

SBN Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SEMA Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

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.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.

 

WTC Open Meeting

 

1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

WTC Reception


5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.

 

YEN Announces Select Committee Candidates

Ballots were sent out electronically Friday, May 22.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Kris Carlson – Auto Meter Products Inc.
Ashley Chalk – Auto Club Speedway of Southern California – Incumbent
Casey Coker – Coker Tire Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring Inc. – Incumbent
Dan Dolan – DiabloSport Inc.
Ron Ezzell Jr. – Custom Logistics Inc.
Jason Fink – Advantage Truck Accessories Inc.
Kevin German – Ground Force Suspension
Chris Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
Eddie Hamilton – Bob Cook Sales
Bennett Jackson – Winfield Consumer Products Inc.
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales

Nathan Kunzman – Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
James Lawrence – Power TV Media
L.J. Lobsinger – Specialty Auto Parts USA Inc.
Trey Owen – Earl Owen Co. Inc.
Josh Pendolphia – KAM Marketing Inc.
Cary Redman – Prestolite Performance/Mr. Gasket
Robert Wityczak – Grant Products International Inc. – Incumbent


YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting

3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

YEN Reception

 

5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

Congratulations to Gregory Parker!

 

Gregory Parker from Martin & Company Advertising has been elected chair-elect of the Young Executives Network (YEN). Parker has served on the YEN Select Committee since 2005 and has been chairman of the SEMA Silent Auction Task Force.

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.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz.

Where's the Hot Rod Industry Headed? Find Out at HRIA Membership Meeting
Thu, 06/11/2009 - 11:20

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.

 

Hot Rod Council Membership to Meet

Dennis Overholser and Rick Love will be taking their new positions as HRIA Chairman and Chair-elect on July 1. They would like to invite and encourage all council member companies and their employees to attend the HRIA membership meeting in Columbus, Ohio, on July 9. The meeting is held in conjunction with the 12th Annual Goodguys PPG Nationals. The meeting location is the Ohio Expo Center in the Expo Building. The meeting begins at 3:00 p.m.

 

Come meet and greet HRIA’s newly seated select committee members and hear what the HRIA is doing for its members. For further information contact Jan Desma, 909/396-0289 x 134.

HRIA Announces Incoming Chair-Elect

On July 1, 2009, the HRIA Select Committee chairmanship will be passed from Jeanette Ladina to the current chair-elect, Dennis Overholser. At that time, a new chair-elect will be installed. Rick Love of Vintage Air has been selected for this position, which will inevitably lead to the chair position in just over two years. During the next two years, Love will be learning and assisting Overholser on the focus and direction of the HRIA Select Committee.

Love is currently the executive vice president of Vintage Air Inc. He has been involved in the hot-rod industry since the late '70s when he built his first hot rod during his senior year in high school. He built several hot rods in the early '80s and began to do A/C installations, which led him to become an authorized dealer and installer for Vintage Air products. Through this association, he began to work with them on product development, which eventually led to a full-time position. Love has been vice president at Vintage Air since 1998.

When asked about his passion for the industry, Love said, "My hobby has evolved into a career, but I also remain a dedicated enthusiast at heart." Love still has the '39 Ford coupe he built in 1984, and it has more than 140,000 miles on it so far. Love also has a '32 Ford coupe and a '72 Camaro RS Pro Touring car, both of which are driven regularly.

To round out his life, Love and his wife Linda, whom he has been married to for 15 years, have a 13-year-old son Matt. "My other hobbies are sports, especially basketball, and I enjoy being involved with my son’s sports activities," said Love.

Love has been an HRIA Select Committee member since 2005 and said, "I am looking forward to moving into the chair-elect position in July. I think two of the most important issues ahead for our industry are continuing to promote youth involvement and focusing on legislation that will encourage the growth of our hobby and industry.

The next generation of passionate car guys and car gals are the key to sustaining the steady growth that we have enjoyed. It is equally important that we have consistent processes and legislation throughout the country to register and license our specialty vehicles so that we may continue to drive and enjoy them."

Love believes that SEMA and its councils such as HRIA can help mobilize support for these issues and keep them in the forefront.

Six Seats Open for HRIA Select Committee

Nominations for a seat on the HRIA Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009. HRIA member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each HRIA member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Del Austin – Egge Machine Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring – Incumbent
Douglas Frymer – Law Office of Douglas A. Frymer
Ray Gorman – Stainless Steel Brakes Corp.
Michael Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Bob Millard – Championship Auto Show/ISCA
Eric Saltrick – Steele Rubber Products – Incumbent
Vince Sica – Power Master (MCI Inc.)
Bret Voelkel – Air Ride Technologies

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time to give back to the 300+ HRIA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of the entire HRIA membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique alliance.

Each HRIA company will be asked to vote for six of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all the candidates well with their election campaigns.

Questions regarding HRIA council elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Dennis Overholser at 817/244-6212 x1008 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

HRIA Industry Awards Reception

5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Closed Select Committee Meeting

 

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma.

 


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Six Seats Open for ARMO Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the ARMO Select Committee took place the week of May 18, 2009.

ARMO member companies should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly. Each ARMO-member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Cliff Carr – Parts Unlimited Inc. (PUI)
Jim Christina – Dynacorn International Inc.
Eric DeTaeye – Legendary Auto Interiors
Jonathan Klinger – Hagerty Insurance
Bob Lichty – Motorcar Portfolio LLC
Roger Niehaus – Auto Custom Carpets – Incumbent
Sandy Patterson – Source Interlink Media – Incumbent
Lenny Schaeffer – Chop Shop Customs
Jim Vinarski – Carlisle Productions – Incumbent
Harry Weimann – WyoTech
Jeff Yager – Hemmings Motor News

The Perfect Storm Hits Spring Carlisle Car Show

There was a convergence of forces at the Carlisle Spring Swap Meet. Beautiful weather, large vendor participation and a huge crowd made this a perfect storm. At the center of it all was the ARMO New Products Showcase tent. The showcase featured 64 new items submitted by ARMO members—a new record. From sheetmetal to electronics, hardware to weather stripping, the tent had what car people crave—new stuff. A constant flow of potential customers was asking, "Where can I buy this?"

The entries were photographed for inclusion in the ARMO booth display at the 2009 SEMA Show. The companies that participated in the New Product Showcase included:

American Autowire
Ames Automotive
Auto Custom Carpets Inc.
Autometal Direct
Bed Wood and Parts LLC
Brew City Engineering
CARS Inc.
Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc.
Classic Industries
Coker Tire
Dakota Digital Inc.
Dynacorn
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc.
Hellwig Products
ididit Inc.
JAE Enterprises Inc.
Just Dashes Inc.
Legendary Auto Interiors, Ltd.
MBM Brake Boosters
Muscle Car Industries
Precision Replacement Parts
Quanta Products LLC
Rare Parts Inc.
REM Automotive Inc.
Shafer's Classic Reproductions
Shiftworks
Steele Rubber Products
Eastwood Company
TrimParts Inc.
Universal Vintage Tire

ARMO Industry Awards Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

ARMO Open Council Meeting


7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

ARMO Roundtable

10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about ARMO, contact Jan Desma.


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Select Committee Announces Nominees
TORA is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections. A total of nine seats are open on the Select Committee in the following categories:


Manufacturer Category (three open seats)

 

Bryan Baker – A.R.E. – Incumbent
Bennett Jackson – Husky Liners/Winfield Consumer Products
Mark Krook – Vanguard Manufacturing
Shawn O’Neal – Agri-Cover
Fred Snow – Hella Inc.
Soren Sorensen – Pilot Automotive
John Stethem – Leer Inc. (TAG)

Retailers/Dealers – (five open seats)

 

Charlie Card – Vehicle Accessories
Peggy Goss – Goss Camper Sales
Casey Miser – All American Truck & SUV Accessory Center
Chris Ripper – Chux Trux
Ron Towry – Truck Gear SuperCenter
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

Media/WD/Rep – (one open seat)

 

Nick Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
John Iannotte – N.A. Williams Co. Performance Accessory Division
Zan Martin – Martin & Co. Advertising

TORA Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. Ballots were e-mailed to the TORA membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until Tuesday, June 16. 

 

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

TORA members can pack plenty of activity around this year’s annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) Meeting. Scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., the meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser at the Pasadena Convention Center on Saturday, August 1. The SEMA Pinewood Drag Race and the SEMA Show 'N Shine car show are also on tap for that day.

Sandwiched between the Thursday LRP meeting and Saturday’s SEMA festivities at the Convention Center, Friday is available for attendees to see West Coast clients or spend a free day in Old Town Pasadena. Old Town is filled with an eclectic mix of shops, stores and restaurants that easily make a full day of sightseeing within walking distance of the Westin and Convention Center.

“This is a tough year for everyone,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “A West Coast trip may not make sense on the surface, but we wanted to hold the meeting in conjunction with some other event so that members could combine two trips into one. With the postponement of the TSTC in March, the only other big event coming up is the SEMA Show in November.

 

"At the SEMA Show, everyone is already overwhelmed, and it’s really not a good venue at which to conduct long-range planning. While this may keep some of our East Coast and Midwest companies from attending, on a positive note we’re hoping that some of the West Coast members, who rarely come east for an LRP, can attend this year’s meeting.”

Please contact TORA Staff Liaison Jim Skelly for more information.


TORA Closed Select Committee Meeting

7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

TORA Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


George Lathouris Named TORA Chair-Elect


The TORA Select Committee has named Keystone’s George Lathouris as its chair-elect. Lathouris will assume his new responsibilities on July 1, when Kelly Kneifl assumes the duties of chairman from current Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. Congratulations to George!

 

TORA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read TORA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.




Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.
MPMC Select Committee Nominees
MPMC is pleased to congratulate the following nominees for this year’s Select Committee elections.

Rich Barsamian – Grant Products Incumbent
Billy Carroll – Incumbent
Steve Matusek – Aeromotive Inc.
Peter Medina – Synapse Engineering
Marla Moore – Hypertech Incumbent
Todd Ryden – MSD Incumbent
Vince Sica – Powermaster Performance
Tyler Tanaka – Turbonetics
Vic Wood – Hedman Manufacturing

MPMC Select Committee elections will be conducted electronically this year. The eballot will contain instructions on completing the ballot, a short bio of each candidate and the list of candidates for voting. An eballot was e-mailed to the MPMC membership on Friday, June 5. Balloting remains open until June 16. One eballot only will be e-mailed to each MPMC member company, specifically the council contact listed in the SEMA membership database.

If you have any questions concerning the MPMC Select Committee election, please contact Jim Skelly.
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News


Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

 



Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

MRC Long-Range Planning Meeting at PWA

MRC will be conducting their annual Long-Range Planning Meeting at the Arizona Grand Resort on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 1:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Dinner will be served. All reps are welcome and encouraged to participate in this open forum and address issues faced daily by reps in all segments of the specialty-equipment industry. Bring your ideas and suggestions to raise the bar for all manufacturers' reps. For us to be able to accommodate attendees with food and beverage, we ask that you contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104 by Friday, August 28, 2009.

8th Annual MRC Rep Conference

In these turbulent times, don’t just survive—thrive! Bryan Shirley, president and CEO of MANA, will present an open and interactive session addressing our industry's biggest challenges in these turbulent times. This event will be held on Tuesday, September 15, 2009, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres, compliments of the MRC Select Committee and PWA. Download your registration form to reserve your seat for this event. For more information, visit www.sema.org/MRC or contact Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

Seven Seats Open for MRC Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the MRC Select Committee will take place the week of May 25, 2009. This year, ballots will be sent out electronically to each MRC member company. Each MRC member company is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the MRC slate:

Mark Adin – PSKB
Alan Adlam – J.K. Sales
Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Irv Cohen – SS Sales & Marketing – Incumbent
Jim Considine – Considine Sales & Marketing
Bill Eagan – Airheart Sales
Chris Fairless – R & R Marketing Incumbent
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales West
Nathan Kunzman – Michael Kunzman & Associates
Scott Majors – MBA Marketing Group – Incumbent
Jim Morehouse – All Midwest Sales
Chris Perry – Bill Perry & Associates

Each MRC company will be asked to vote for seven of these exceptional, dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their election campaigns. Questions regarding MRC council elections can be directed to SEMA Council Relations Coordinator Staci Bostock at 909/396-0289 x104.

MRC General Membership Meeting and Awards Ceremony

MRC will be holding its membership meeting and awards ceremony on Sunday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock to request the Manufacturers Seeking Rep List, which is available at no cost. Compiled using information collected from manufacturers prior to the 2008 SEMA Show, the listing contains details on manufacturers currently seeking the services of manufacturers’ representatives along with the lines available and company contact information. The list was originally available in the MRC Rep Center during the week of the 2008 SEMA Show.

MRC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock.

 

 

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 

Don't Miss Out!


There is still time to register for the annual PRO Project Planning Meeting scheduled for next Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, in the Motor City, Detroit, Michigan. The Crown Plaza Hotel, minutes from the Detroit Metro Airport, will once again host the event and is offering a blocked out room rate of only $115 for meeting attendees.

PRO is honored to have representatives from Ford, GM and Mopar on hand to conduct a panel discussion with meeting attendees, beginning at 11 am. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to exchange information directly with the OEMs!

 

Following this panel discussion and lunch, attendees will break out into smaller groups for specific topic discussions. A cocktail reception in the hotel from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. precedes a tour of the Ford F-150 assembly plant on Thursday evening. Breakout groups reconvene on Friday morning and then report back to the group at 10:00 a.m. The planning session adjourns at 11:00 a.m., allowing plenty of time for everyone to catch those afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas, and plan for solutions, than at the PRO Project Planning meeting. If you have not made your reservations, please RSVP to Jim Skelly. Contact Manya Petropaki for hotel and/or flight reservations at The Travel Store, manya.p@travelstoreusa.com, or 949/930-9268.

 

Eldon Bracken New Chair Elect of PRO Council
The PRO Select Committee announced that Eldon Bracken of Graphic Mart in Milton, Ontario, Canada, has been elected to the position of Chair Elect. Eldon will assume his new role on July 1, when current Chair Elect Karl Stearns takes over the Council Chair position from Chuck Blum. Congratulations, Eldon!


PRO Closed Select Committee Meeting


3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Industry Reception


5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


PRO General Membership Meeting


7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly.

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

Webinar Sponsored by the Street Performance Council

The SPC is sponsoring the “Protecting Your Products With Contracts: Contract Law 101” webinar, presented by Elizabeth McNulty, Dan Rodman and Josie Mollica, Snell & Wilmer LLP, on Thursday, May 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. PDT.

SPC Reception

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz.

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.

 

10 Seats Open for SBN Select Committee

Elections for a seat on the SBN Select Committee will take place the week of May 18, 2009.

 

Seven of the seats will be for a two-year term and three of the seats will be for a one-year term.

Individual SBN members should expect to receive candidate campaign materials in the mail shortly.

Each SBN member is asked to review and consider their choices carefully.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Vicki Archila – R & R Marketing Consultants
Nan Kevin Gelhard – Summit Racing Equipment
Erin Gilhuly – Toyota Motor Sales
Jessica Grindle – Advanstar Communications
Cheralyn Hale – Advanced Clutch Technology
Julie Helms – Edgenet Inc. (Big Hammer)
Gigi Ho – Digital Performance Inc.
Anne Johnson – Keystone Automotive Operations
Melissa Lawrence – Power TV Media – Incumbent
Nancy Loetfering – Davert Tools Inc. – Incumbent
Laurie Marcellus – Trans American Auto Parts LLC Off Road Adventures

Cathi J. Robbe – Colorado State University
Trina Wilson – DCi – Incumbent
Mandi Woodell – Weathers Auto Supply

The willingness of these candidates to volunteer their time and give back to the 270+ SBN members and SEMA member companies is welcomed. The ability to take off company and personal hats to work for the good of our membership and not for personal gain is one of the most honorable traits a Select Committee member holds. We are pleased to have their interest, dedication and support in this unique network of members.

Each SBN individual member will be asked to vote for 10 of these exceptional dedicated individuals. We wish all candidates well with their campaign efforts.

Questions regarding SBN committee elections can be directed to the chairman of the nominations/elections committee, Tammy Holland at 901/375-3451 or Council Relations Director Jan Desma at 909/396-0289 x134.

 

SBN Closed Select Committee Meeting

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

SEMA Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN

7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Thursday, November 5, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

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.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.

 

WTC Open Meeting

 

1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday, November 2, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

 

WTC Reception


5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 4, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.


WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz.

 

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.

 

YEN Announces Select Committee Candidates

Ballots were sent out electronically Friday, May 22.

We congratulate the following nominees for making the slate:

Mike Bolio – Scafidi-Bolio & Associates – Incumbent
Kris Carlson – Auto Meter Products Inc.
Ashley Chalk – Auto Club Speedway of Southern California – Incumbent
Casey Coker – Coker Tire Co. Inc. – Incumbent
S. Kellie Colf – Eaton Detroit Spring Inc. – Incumbent
Dan Dolan – DiabloSport Inc.
Ron Ezzell Jr. – Custom Logistics Inc.
Jason Fink – Advantage Truck Accessories Inc.
Kevin German – Ground Force Suspension
Chris Gramelspacher – Meyer Distributing
Eddie Hamilton – Bob Cook Sales
Bennett Jackson – Winfield Consumer Products Inc.
Derrick Johnstone – Alliance Sales

Nathan Kunzman – Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
James Lawrence – Power TV Media
L.J. Lobsinger – Specialty Auto Parts USA Inc.
Trey Owen – Earl Owen Co. Inc.
Josh Pendolphia – KAM Marketing Inc.
Cary Redman – Prestolite Performance/Mr. Gasket
Robert Wityczak – Grant Products International Inc. – Incumbent


YEN Long-Range Planning Meeting

3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

YEN Reception

 

5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Tuesday, November 3, during SEMA Show week at the Las Vegas Hilton in Las Vegas.

 

Congratulations to Gregory Parker!

 

Gregory Parker from Martin & Company Advertising has been elected chair-elect of the Young Executives Network (YEN). Parker has served on the YEN Select Committee since 2005 and has been chairman of the SEMA Silent Auction Task Force.

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.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz.