Racing News: Legend Richard Petty Teams With Dreyer & Reinbold Racing for Indy 500
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00

THE KING OF INDY?: Seven-time NASCAR champion Richard Petty announced he will team with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing to field an IndyCar Series entry for driver John Andretti in the 93rd Indianapolis 500.

DROUGHT BREAKER: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series points-leader Jeff Gordon ended a 47-race winless streak with his first victory at Texas Motor Speedway.

HE’S THE MAN: IndyCar Series team owner Roger Penske confirmed that if Helio Castroneves is acquitted of the tax evasion charges he has been charged with, he will return to the cockpit of the No. 3 Indy car immediately. Castroneves’s defense attorneys are expected to rest their case in a Miami courtroom early this week.

VEGAS BOUND: It appears a foregone conclusion that the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series banquet will move to Las Vegas this December after 27 years in New York City.

NEW PROCEDURE: NASCAR introduced a new tear-down procedure for engines following NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events. The engines will be crated and shipped by the sanctioning body to its Concord, North Carolina, R&D Center. There they will be inspected on the Monday following the races. Team members responsible for the engines will be present.

TOP DOG: In a week when the top five in last week’s Power Rankings all won races and NHRA Funny Car driver Ron Capps won for the third time in five events, Kyle Busch narrowly remained at the top of the standings. Busch dominated Saturday’s NASCAR Nationwide Series race before struggling to a 18th-place finish in Sunday’s Sprint Cup event. The rankings appear weekly in America’s Motorsports Authority.

SUBSCRIBE: National Speed Sport News has been published weekly since 1934. Click on the link to subscribe to National Speed Sport News.

Racing News: Legend Richard Petty Teams With Dreyer & Reinbold Racing for Indy 500
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00

THE KING OF INDY?: Seven-time NASCAR champion Richard Petty announced he will team with Dreyer & Reinbold Racing to field an IndyCar Series entry for driver John Andretti in the 93rd Indianapolis 500.

DROUGHT BREAKER: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series points-leader Jeff Gordon ended a 47-race winless streak with his first victory at Texas Motor Speedway.

HE’S THE MAN: IndyCar Series team owner Roger Penske confirmed that if Helio Castroneves is acquitted of the tax evasion charges he has been charged with, he will return to the cockpit of the No. 3 Indy car immediately. Castroneves’s defense attorneys are expected to rest their case in a Miami courtroom early this week.

VEGAS BOUND: It appears a foregone conclusion that the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series banquet will move to Las Vegas this December after 27 years in New York City.

NEW PROCEDURE: NASCAR introduced a new tear-down procedure for engines following NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events. The engines will be crated and shipped by the sanctioning body to its Concord, North Carolina, R&D Center. There they will be inspected on the Monday following the races. Team members responsible for the engines will be present.

TOP DOG: In a week when the top five in last week’s Power Rankings all won races and NHRA Funny Car driver Ron Capps won for the third time in five events, Kyle Busch narrowly remained at the top of the standings. Busch dominated Saturday’s NASCAR Nationwide Series race before struggling to a 18th-place finish in Sunday’s Sprint Cup event. The rankings appear weekly in America’s Motorsports Authority.

SUBSCRIBE: National Speed Sport News has been published weekly since 1934. Click on the link to subscribe to National Speed Sport News.

NHRA: Tony Schumacher Grabs Back-to-Back Wins
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00

NEWS NUGGETS

SCHU GRABS TWO!; “THE SARGE” GETS BACK-TO-BACK WINS AFTER ROUGH 2009 START: After a slow start to 2009, which saw two second-round losses and a semifinal loss in the first three races, six-time and defending Top Fuel world champion Tony Schumacher found his mark in Houston and followed it up in Las Vegas, picking up his second consecutive win of the season at the Summitracing.com NHRA Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

He moved from fifth to the top spot in the Full Throttle point standings.

“Most of the guys on this team have not won two races in a row, so that was great for them,” said Schumacher, who is starting out with a fresh team and crew chief after long-time tuner Alan Johnson left to start his own team.

“I did a good job of keeping it straight and all that stuff, but I didn’t drive as well as I did [in Houston], period. [In Houston] I had a pretty special week, and this week, it was the team. They did a heck of a job. The car ran right down the track every time.”

But Schumacher isn’t the only driver riding the wave of success early in the season. Funny Car’s Ron Capps and Pro Stock’s Jeg Coughlin also picked up additional wins in Las Vegas. Capps knocked off teammate and rookie driver Matt Hagan in the final round to pick up his third win of the season, just five races in.

“We have found that just trying to approach the season like a NASCAR team and saying, ‘Okay as long as we’re in the Countdown and in the top 10’ and trying to focus and peak at the right time doesn’t work,” said Capps. “So we stepped it up, and ‘Ace’ [Ed McCulloch, crew chief] is trying to rip their throats out every single run.”

Coughlin has had a similar start to the 2009 season. With two wins and three final-round appearances in just five races, the defending Pro Stock world champion is looking to add a fourth title to his career stats. “We’d love nothing more than to come out of Indy in first place in the Countdown with the extra bonus points that come with being No. 1,” said Coughlin. “But there are a lot of races between here and there.”

NHRA FLOPPERS EARN BOWLING BRAGGING RIGHTS AT UNITED STATES BOWLING CONGRESS OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP IN LAS VEGAS: The NHRA Floppers, one of three teams that competed in the USBC Open Championships, Thursday, April 2 in Las Vegas, led by the tandem of Auto Club Ford Mustang driver Robert Hight and Al-Anabi Racing Toyota Solara driver Del Worsham, squeezed out the victory over the other two teams and posted a team total score of 2,180.

Top Fuel rookie Shawn Langdon posted the overall high score of 528 among the 15 drivers who played, with Hight coming in second at 525.

“Bowling is a lot like a race car when you consider you have to make a lot of minor adjustments as you go and the lanes change just like a track will change,” said Hight. “It was a fun experience. The other NHRA teams were really good too. It went right down to the 10th frame of the last game.”

GIR, USO HONOR SERVICEMEMBERS WITH ‘THANK THE MILITARY’ NHRA TICKET PROMOTION: In an effort to show its appreciation for those who have volunteered their service to the U.S. armed forces, Gateway International Raceway (GIR) has initiated the “Thank the Military” ticket program. The program allows fans purchasing tickets to the O’Reilly NHRA Midwest Nationals, May 1–3, to donate a ticket to the USO of Missouri, who will then distribute the tickets to area active-duty military. To purchase tickets, fans can call 866/357-7333 or online at www.gatewayraceway.com.

BRISTOL DRAGWAY AND zMAX DRAGWAY TEAM UP TO OFFER FANS INCREDIBLE TICKET PACKAGE: NHRA fans in both Bristol and Charlotte now have the chance of a lifetime as Bristol Dragway and zMAX dragway have teamed up to off an amazing ticket package for $199. With the package, fans will get three-day tickets to the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway, May 15–17, as well as four-day tickets to the NHRA Nationals, September 17–20 at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte.

On top of the opportunity to attend two of the biggest races on the Full Throttle Drag Racing Series circuit, fans purchasing four tickets will be able to take laps at both Bristol Motor Speedway and Lowe’s Motor Speedway during each NHRA event weekend. And the first 100 fans to purchase the package will receive a free die-cast Funny Car. To purchase tickets for this special package, call Bristol Dragway at 423/989-6900 or online at www.bristoldragway.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT NHRA SOUTHERN NATIONALS, ATLANTA DRAGWAY, APRIL 16–19: NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing heads south for its annual stop in Georgia. Defending event winners include Antron Brown (Top Fuel); Ashley Force Hood (Funny Car); Mike Edwards (Pro Stock); and Andrew Hines (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

O’REILLY NHRA MIDWEST NATIONALS, GATEWAY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY, MAY 1–3: NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing returns to the Gateway to the West in Madison, Illinois. Defending event winners include Rod Fuller (Top Fuel); Tim Wilkerson (Funny Car); Kurt Johnson (Pro Stock); and Andrew Hines (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS, BRISTOL DRAGWAY, MAY 15–17: NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing heads back to Thunder Valley and the Mountains of Northern Tennessee for the eighth of 24 events on the 2009 schedule. Defending event winners include Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel); Melanie Troxel (Funny Car); and Dave Connolly (Pro Stock).

HE SAID, SHE SAID

ALMOST A WIN: Funny Car driver Matt Hagan on losing to teammate Ron Capps in his first final-round appearance at the Summitracing.com NHRA Nationals in Las Vegas: “I think you have to pay your dues sometimes, and I think that’s what we’re doing right now. We’re learning as we go, and I feel like I’ve learned a lot this weekend. I’m going to take it back and try to use it at the next event.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

11: The number of wins out of 28 events that John Force Racing has at Atlanta Dragway. Mike Neff hopes to become the fifth JFR driver to win at Atlanta and second consecutive to collect their first career win at Atlanta Dragway (Ashley Force Hood).

John Force: 2005, 2000, '99, '95, '94, '93, '92
Tony Pedregon*: 2003, '96
Robert Hight: 2007
Ashley Force Hood: 2008

*Tony Pedregon picked up his third win at Atlanta Dragway in 2006 with Pedregon Racing.

DID YOU KNOW…

…that Top Fuel pilot Larry Dixon is just one round win shy of 500 round wins. If Dixon gets his 500th round win in Atlanta, he would join a list of 500-plus winners that includes John Force (1,019), Warren Johnson (853), Kenny Bernstein (681), Bob Glidden (597), Joe Amato (527) and Kurt Johnson (508).

NHRA: Tony Schumacher Grabs Back-to-Back Wins
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00

NEWS NUGGETS

SCHU GRABS TWO!; “THE SARGE” GETS BACK-TO-BACK WINS AFTER ROUGH 2009 START: After a slow start to 2009, which saw two second-round losses and a semifinal loss in the first three races, six-time and defending Top Fuel world champion Tony Schumacher found his mark in Houston and followed it up in Las Vegas, picking up his second consecutive win of the season at the Summitracing.com NHRA Nationals at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

He moved from fifth to the top spot in the Full Throttle point standings.

“Most of the guys on this team have not won two races in a row, so that was great for them,” said Schumacher, who is starting out with a fresh team and crew chief after long-time tuner Alan Johnson left to start his own team.

“I did a good job of keeping it straight and all that stuff, but I didn’t drive as well as I did [in Houston], period. [In Houston] I had a pretty special week, and this week, it was the team. They did a heck of a job. The car ran right down the track every time.”

But Schumacher isn’t the only driver riding the wave of success early in the season. Funny Car’s Ron Capps and Pro Stock’s Jeg Coughlin also picked up additional wins in Las Vegas. Capps knocked off teammate and rookie driver Matt Hagan in the final round to pick up his third win of the season, just five races in.

“We have found that just trying to approach the season like a NASCAR team and saying, ‘Okay as long as we’re in the Countdown and in the top 10’ and trying to focus and peak at the right time doesn’t work,” said Capps. “So we stepped it up, and ‘Ace’ [Ed McCulloch, crew chief] is trying to rip their throats out every single run.”

Coughlin has had a similar start to the 2009 season. With two wins and three final-round appearances in just five races, the defending Pro Stock world champion is looking to add a fourth title to his career stats. “We’d love nothing more than to come out of Indy in first place in the Countdown with the extra bonus points that come with being No. 1,” said Coughlin. “But there are a lot of races between here and there.”

NHRA FLOPPERS EARN BOWLING BRAGGING RIGHTS AT UNITED STATES BOWLING CONGRESS OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP IN LAS VEGAS: The NHRA Floppers, one of three teams that competed in the USBC Open Championships, Thursday, April 2 in Las Vegas, led by the tandem of Auto Club Ford Mustang driver Robert Hight and Al-Anabi Racing Toyota Solara driver Del Worsham, squeezed out the victory over the other two teams and posted a team total score of 2,180.

Top Fuel rookie Shawn Langdon posted the overall high score of 528 among the 15 drivers who played, with Hight coming in second at 525.

“Bowling is a lot like a race car when you consider you have to make a lot of minor adjustments as you go and the lanes change just like a track will change,” said Hight. “It was a fun experience. The other NHRA teams were really good too. It went right down to the 10th frame of the last game.”

GIR, USO HONOR SERVICEMEMBERS WITH ‘THANK THE MILITARY’ NHRA TICKET PROMOTION: In an effort to show its appreciation for those who have volunteered their service to the U.S. armed forces, Gateway International Raceway (GIR) has initiated the “Thank the Military” ticket program. The program allows fans purchasing tickets to the O’Reilly NHRA Midwest Nationals, May 1–3, to donate a ticket to the USO of Missouri, who will then distribute the tickets to area active-duty military. To purchase tickets, fans can call 866/357-7333 or online at www.gatewayraceway.com.

BRISTOL DRAGWAY AND zMAX DRAGWAY TEAM UP TO OFFER FANS INCREDIBLE TICKET PACKAGE: NHRA fans in both Bristol and Charlotte now have the chance of a lifetime as Bristol Dragway and zMAX dragway have teamed up to off an amazing ticket package for $199. With the package, fans will get three-day tickets to the NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals at Bristol Dragway, May 15–17, as well as four-day tickets to the NHRA Nationals, September 17–20 at zMAX Dragway in Charlotte.

On top of the opportunity to attend two of the biggest races on the Full Throttle Drag Racing Series circuit, fans purchasing four tickets will be able to take laps at both Bristol Motor Speedway and Lowe’s Motor Speedway during each NHRA event weekend. And the first 100 fans to purchase the package will receive a free die-cast Funny Car. To purchase tickets for this special package, call Bristol Dragway at 423/989-6900 or online at www.bristoldragway.com.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT NHRA SOUTHERN NATIONALS, ATLANTA DRAGWAY, APRIL 16–19: NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing heads south for its annual stop in Georgia. Defending event winners include Antron Brown (Top Fuel); Ashley Force Hood (Funny Car); Mike Edwards (Pro Stock); and Andrew Hines (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

O’REILLY NHRA MIDWEST NATIONALS, GATEWAY INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY, MAY 1–3: NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing returns to the Gateway to the West in Madison, Illinois. Defending event winners include Rod Fuller (Top Fuel); Tim Wilkerson (Funny Car); Kurt Johnson (Pro Stock); and Andrew Hines (Pro Stock Motorcycle).

NHRA THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS, BRISTOL DRAGWAY, MAY 15–17: NHRA Full Throttle Drag Racing heads back to Thunder Valley and the Mountains of Northern Tennessee for the eighth of 24 events on the 2009 schedule. Defending event winners include Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel); Melanie Troxel (Funny Car); and Dave Connolly (Pro Stock).

HE SAID, SHE SAID

ALMOST A WIN: Funny Car driver Matt Hagan on losing to teammate Ron Capps in his first final-round appearance at the Summitracing.com NHRA Nationals in Las Vegas: “I think you have to pay your dues sometimes, and I think that’s what we’re doing right now. We’re learning as we go, and I feel like I’ve learned a lot this weekend. I’m going to take it back and try to use it at the next event.”

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

11: The number of wins out of 28 events that John Force Racing has at Atlanta Dragway. Mike Neff hopes to become the fifth JFR driver to win at Atlanta and second consecutive to collect their first career win at Atlanta Dragway (Ashley Force Hood).

John Force: 2005, 2000, '99, '95, '94, '93, '92
Tony Pedregon*: 2003, '96
Robert Hight: 2007
Ashley Force Hood: 2008

*Tony Pedregon picked up his third win at Atlanta Dragway in 2006 with Pedregon Racing.

DID YOU KNOW…

…that Top Fuel pilot Larry Dixon is just one round win shy of 500 round wins. If Dixon gets his 500th round win in Atlanta, he would join a list of 500-plus winners that includes John Force (1,019), Warren Johnson (853), Kenny Bernstein (681), Bob Glidden (597), Joe Amato (527) and Kurt Johnson (508).

Movers & Shakers: John Sonnefeldt Joins Heidt's; SoffSeal Promotes Sandy Fox, Christopher Sondles; NGK's Pepper Named VP
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00


John Sonnefeldt
 
Heidts Hot Rod & Muscle Car Parts named John Sonnefeldt as its director of sales and marketing. Sonnefeldt has more than 15 years of experience in the automotive performance aftermarket with extensive knowledge of drag racing, road racing, NASCAR, restoration and the car-building community.

SoffSeal Inc. promoted both Sandy Fox and Christopher Sondles to executive vice president. Fox and Sondles were mentored by the late Gary Anderson, SoffSeal’s founder and former president. Fox will oversee the company’s operations and finance, and Sondles will oversee product development, sales and marketing.

Azentek LLC announced that u-blox, a Swiss provider of GPS technology, will provide GPS-receiver modules to the company. The modules provide navigation and location awareness in Azentek’s Atlas in-car personal computers and its SmartMirror device.

NGK Spark Plugs (USA) Inc., a subsidiary of NGK Spark Plug Co. LTD., promoted


Robert Pepper
 

Robert Pepper to vice president of manufacturing. Pepper has been with NGK since 2007, previously as director of manufacturing administration. He is responsible for all North American manufacturing and OEM/OES distribution, with locations in Irvine, California, and Sissonville, West Virginia.

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. launched an all-new website, www.toyotires.com. The company’s goal of the complete site redesign, which includes a new web address, was to create a user-friendly resources tool for consumers and dealers.


The "Electro-Van" built by 13 students at Ohio Technical College
 

A group of 13 Ohio Technical College students enrolled in the college’s Alternative Fuel program recently developed an all-electric powered vehicle dubbed the "Electro-Van." The fully functional 1997 Ford E350 runs solely on electricity and can reach speeds of up to 35 mph with a two-hour drive-time capacity.

The students took six weeks to design and build the van, which included the conversion from diesel to electric with revisions to the body and drivetrain to accommodate the new power-supply system.

The van uses 21 batteries for power—solar panels have been added for recharging the batteries—and an electric motor that delivers up to 95 hp.

Free Marketing Opportunity for ARMO Members and Other Council and Committee News
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Free Marketing for ARMO Members

Once again, the ARMO New Products Showcase will be held at the Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, from Wednesday to Sunday, April 22–26, 2009. This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce your creative and innovative products to hobbyists and the industry for FREE!

This year, there will be no judging, but rather a focus on simply showcasing the products entered. Entries will be photographed at Spring Carlisle and the photos, product descriptions and company name will be displayed in the ARMO booth at the 2009 SEMA Show.

Please review the information on the ARMO New Products Showcase entry form. Entries are due by Wednesday, April 15, 2009. Please direct questions and submit forms to Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

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Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.


HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

Mark your calendar for the annual TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting, which is moving to a new time and location. The Long-Range Planning Meeting will be held on Thursday, July 30, from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California. The meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual Council Leadership Seminar and SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

“The TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting is typically held in the East or Midwest,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “It was slated for Orlando in March, in conjunction with the TSTC. When that got postponed, we had to look elsewhere. This will be our first time on the West Coast and perhaps we can meet face-to-face with some West Coast TORA members who would otherwise not attend the Long-Range Planning Meeting.”

Detailed information will be mailed to all TORA member companies shortly. You may also contact TORA staff liaison Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org for more information.


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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org 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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 


PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting

The annual PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting is slated for Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, 2009, in Detroit. 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. Lunch is included both days, with a continental breakfast also included on Friday morning.

The Long-Range Planning Meeting begins at 11:00 a.m. Thursday morning, continues through lunch and then moves into breakout groups in the afternoon. The breakout groups continue on Friday. Everyone will reconvene mid-morning on Friday for breakout reports and a box lunch before adjourning at 1:00 p.m., in time for those early afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas and plan for solutions than at the PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting. Official meeting notices will go out shortly with more details. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.


PRO Business Development Guidebook Now On Sale

 

In today’s ever-changing marketplace, staying ahead of the competition is more important and challenging than ever. To be successful, you not only need an effective business strategy, but also the tools and resources to help your company excel and stand out from the pack. The PRO Business Development Guidebook is your handy reference guide.

 

Beginning with an overview of the importance of having a business plan—including tips on how to develop a business plan and the many purposes it can serve—the manual offers chapter-by-chapter strategies for making your business a success.

 

From understanding the basics of business finance and the importance of quality and service and how to make them hallmarks of your business, to building knowledge and skills among your employees to branding your restyling business as a market leader, the guidebook offers information critical to the day-to-day and long-term operation of your business.

 

Whether you’re starting your own restyling business or already own one—be it mobile or brick and mortar—you’ll find the answers that you’ve been looking for in the guidebook. PRO Council members contributed much of the information contained in the guidebook, drawing on their experience and knowledge to present a valuable business tool.

 

To order the PRO business guidebook, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.


WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting

Attend the WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting and help shape the course of the council’s agenda. It’s time to voice your opinion.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2009, from 10:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. at:

 

SEMA Headquarters
AAA Building—Second Floor
1577 South Valley Vista Dr.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765

 

RSVP by Friday, May 8, 2009 to Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.


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.

 

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.


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.

 

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.

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program, click here.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

Free Marketing Opportunity for ARMO Members and Other Council and Committee News
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Free Marketing for ARMO Members

Once again, the ARMO New Products Showcase will be held at the Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, from Wednesday to Sunday, April 22–26, 2009. This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce your creative and innovative products to hobbyists and the industry for FREE!

This year, there will be no judging, but rather a focus on simply showcasing the products entered. Entries will be photographed at Spring Carlisle and the photos, product descriptions and company name will be displayed in the ARMO booth at the 2009 SEMA Show.

Please review the information on the ARMO New Products Showcase entry form. Entries are due by Wednesday, April 15, 2009. Please direct questions and submit forms to Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

______________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.


HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

____________________________________________________________________________


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

Mark your calendar for the annual TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting, which is moving to a new time and location. The Long-Range Planning Meeting will be held on Thursday, July 30, from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California. The meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual Council Leadership Seminar and SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

“The TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting is typically held in the East or Midwest,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “It was slated for Orlando in March, in conjunction with the TSTC. When that got postponed, we had to look elsewhere. This will be our first time on the West Coast and perhaps we can meet face-to-face with some West Coast TORA members who would otherwise not attend the Long-Range Planning Meeting.”

Detailed information will be mailed to all TORA member companies shortly. You may also contact TORA staff liaison Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org for more information.


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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________


Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org 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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________


Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

_________________________________________________________________

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 


PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting

The annual PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting is slated for Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, 2009, in Detroit. 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. Lunch is included both days, with a continental breakfast also included on Friday morning.

The Long-Range Planning Meeting begins at 11:00 a.m. Thursday morning, continues through lunch and then moves into breakout groups in the afternoon. The breakout groups continue on Friday. Everyone will reconvene mid-morning on Friday for breakout reports and a box lunch before adjourning at 1:00 p.m., in time for those early afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas and plan for solutions than at the PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting. Official meeting notices will go out shortly with more details. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.


PRO Business Development Guidebook Now On Sale

 

In today’s ever-changing marketplace, staying ahead of the competition is more important and challenging than ever. To be successful, you not only need an effective business strategy, but also the tools and resources to help your company excel and stand out from the pack. The PRO Business Development Guidebook is your handy reference guide.

 

Beginning with an overview of the importance of having a business plan—including tips on how to develop a business plan and the many purposes it can serve—the manual offers chapter-by-chapter strategies for making your business a success.

 

From understanding the basics of business finance and the importance of quality and service and how to make them hallmarks of your business, to building knowledge and skills among your employees to branding your restyling business as a market leader, the guidebook offers information critical to the day-to-day and long-term operation of your business.

 

Whether you’re starting your own restyling business or already own one—be it mobile or brick and mortar—you’ll find the answers that you’ve been looking for in the guidebook. PRO Council members contributed much of the information contained in the guidebook, drawing on their experience and knowledge to present a valuable business tool.

 

To order the PRO business guidebook, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.


WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting

Attend the WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting and help shape the course of the council’s agenda. It’s time to voice your opinion.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2009, from 10:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. at:

 

SEMA Headquarters
AAA Building—Second Floor
1577 South Valley Vista Dr.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765

 

RSVP by Friday, May 8, 2009 to Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.


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.

 

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.
______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.


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.

 

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.

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program, click here.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

Free Marketing Opportunity for ARMO Members and Other Council and Committee News
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Free Marketing for ARMO Members

Once again, the ARMO New Products Showcase will be held at the Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, from Wednesday to Sunday, April 22–26, 2009. This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce your creative and innovative products to hobbyists and the industry for FREE!

This year, there will be no judging, but rather a focus on simply showcasing the products entered. Entries will be photographed at Spring Carlisle and the photos, product descriptions and company name will be displayed in the ARMO booth at the 2009 SEMA Show.

Please review the information on the ARMO New Products Showcase entry form. Entries are due by Wednesday, April 15, 2009. Please direct questions and submit forms to Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

______________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.


HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

____________________________________________________________________________


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

Mark your calendar for the annual TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting, which is moving to a new time and location. The Long-Range Planning Meeting will be held on Thursday, July 30, from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California. The meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual Council Leadership Seminar and SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

“The TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting is typically held in the East or Midwest,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “It was slated for Orlando in March, in conjunction with the TSTC. When that got postponed, we had to look elsewhere. This will be our first time on the West Coast and perhaps we can meet face-to-face with some West Coast TORA members who would otherwise not attend the Long-Range Planning Meeting.”

Detailed information will be mailed to all TORA member companies shortly. You may also contact TORA staff liaison Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org for more information.


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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________


Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org 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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________


Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

_________________________________________________________________

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 


PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting

The annual PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting is slated for Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, 2009, in Detroit. 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. Lunch is included both days, with a continental breakfast also included on Friday morning.

The Long-Range Planning Meeting begins at 11:00 a.m. Thursday morning, continues through lunch and then moves into breakout groups in the afternoon. The breakout groups continue on Friday. Everyone will reconvene mid-morning on Friday for breakout reports and a box lunch before adjourning at 1:00 p.m., in time for those early afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas and plan for solutions than at the PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting. Official meeting notices will go out shortly with more details. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.


PRO Business Development Guidebook Now On Sale

 

In today’s ever-changing marketplace, staying ahead of the competition is more important and challenging than ever. To be successful, you not only need an effective business strategy, but also the tools and resources to help your company excel and stand out from the pack. The PRO Business Development Guidebook is your handy reference guide.

 

Beginning with an overview of the importance of having a business plan—including tips on how to develop a business plan and the many purposes it can serve—the manual offers chapter-by-chapter strategies for making your business a success.

 

From understanding the basics of business finance and the importance of quality and service and how to make them hallmarks of your business, to building knowledge and skills among your employees to branding your restyling business as a market leader, the guidebook offers information critical to the day-to-day and long-term operation of your business.

 

Whether you’re starting your own restyling business or already own one—be it mobile or brick and mortar—you’ll find the answers that you’ve been looking for in the guidebook. PRO Council members contributed much of the information contained in the guidebook, drawing on their experience and knowledge to present a valuable business tool.

 

To order the PRO business guidebook, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.


WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting

Attend the WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting and help shape the course of the council’s agenda. It’s time to voice your opinion.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2009, from 10:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. at:

 

SEMA Headquarters
AAA Building—Second Floor
1577 South Valley Vista Dr.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765

 

RSVP by Friday, May 8, 2009 to Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.


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.

 

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.
______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.


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.

 

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.

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program, click here.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

Free Marketing Opportunity for ARMO Members and Other Council and Committee News
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Free Marketing for ARMO Members

Once again, the ARMO New Products Showcase will be held at the Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, from Wednesday to Sunday, April 22–26, 2009. This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce your creative and innovative products to hobbyists and the industry for FREE!

This year, there will be no judging, but rather a focus on simply showcasing the products entered. Entries will be photographed at Spring Carlisle and the photos, product descriptions and company name will be displayed in the ARMO booth at the 2009 SEMA Show.

Please review the information on the ARMO New Products Showcase entry form. Entries are due by Wednesday, April 15, 2009. Please direct questions and submit forms to Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

______________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.


HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

____________________________________________________________________________


Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

Mark your calendar for the annual TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting, which is moving to a new time and location. The Long-Range Planning Meeting will be held on Thursday, July 30, from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California. The meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual Council Leadership Seminar and SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

“The TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting is typically held in the East or Midwest,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “It was slated for Orlando in March, in conjunction with the TSTC. When that got postponed, we had to look elsewhere. This will be our first time on the West Coast and perhaps we can meet face-to-face with some West Coast TORA members who would otherwise not attend the Long-Range Planning Meeting.”

Detailed information will be mailed to all TORA member companies shortly. You may also contact TORA staff liaison Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org for more information.


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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________


Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org 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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________


Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

_________________________________________________________________

Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 


PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting

The annual PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting is slated for Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, 2009, in Detroit. 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. Lunch is included both days, with a continental breakfast also included on Friday morning.

The Long-Range Planning Meeting begins at 11:00 a.m. Thursday morning, continues through lunch and then moves into breakout groups in the afternoon. The breakout groups continue on Friday. Everyone will reconvene mid-morning on Friday for breakout reports and a box lunch before adjourning at 1:00 p.m., in time for those early afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas and plan for solutions than at the PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting. Official meeting notices will go out shortly with more details. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.


PRO Business Development Guidebook Now On Sale

 

In today’s ever-changing marketplace, staying ahead of the competition is more important and challenging than ever. To be successful, you not only need an effective business strategy, but also the tools and resources to help your company excel and stand out from the pack. The PRO Business Development Guidebook is your handy reference guide.

 

Beginning with an overview of the importance of having a business plan—including tips on how to develop a business plan and the many purposes it can serve—the manual offers chapter-by-chapter strategies for making your business a success.

 

From understanding the basics of business finance and the importance of quality and service and how to make them hallmarks of your business, to building knowledge and skills among your employees to branding your restyling business as a market leader, the guidebook offers information critical to the day-to-day and long-term operation of your business.

 

Whether you’re starting your own restyling business or already own one—be it mobile or brick and mortar—you’ll find the answers that you’ve been looking for in the guidebook. PRO Council members contributed much of the information contained in the guidebook, drawing on their experience and knowledge to present a valuable business tool.

 

To order the PRO business guidebook, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.


WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting

Attend the WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting and help shape the course of the council’s agenda. It’s time to voice your opinion.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2009, from 10:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. at:

 

SEMA Headquarters
AAA Building—Second Floor
1577 South Valley Vista Dr.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765

 

RSVP by Friday, May 8, 2009 to Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.


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.

 

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.
______________________________________________________________________________________

 


Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.


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.

 

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.

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program, click here.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

Free Marketing Opportunity for ARMO Members and Other Council and Committee News
Thu, 04/09/2009 - 00:00


Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.

Free Marketing for ARMO Members

Once again, the ARMO New Products Showcase will be held at the Spring Carlisle in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, from Wednesday to Sunday, April 22–26, 2009. This is a fantastic opportunity to introduce your creative and innovative products to hobbyists and the industry for FREE!

This year, there will be no judging, but rather a focus on simply showcasing the products entered. Entries will be photographed at Spring Carlisle and the photos, product descriptions and company name will be displayed in the ARMO booth at the 2009 SEMA Show.

Please review the information on the ARMO New Products Showcase entry form. Entries are due by Wednesday, April 15, 2009. Please direct questions and submit forms to Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

ARMO Column in SEMA Member News

Read ARMO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

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Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.


HRIA Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read HRIA's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about HRIA, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit TORA's website.

TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting Moves to Pasadena

 

Mark your calendar for the annual TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting, which is moving to a new time and location. The Long-Range Planning Meeting will be held on Thursday, July 30, from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. at the Westin Hotel in Pasadena, California. The meeting is being held in conjunction with the annual Council Leadership Seminar and SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.

“The TORA Long-Range Planning Meeting is typically held in the East or Midwest,” said TORA Chairman Ron DiVincenzo. “It was slated for Orlando in March, in conjunction with the TSTC. When that got postponed, we had to look elsewhere. This will be our first time on the West Coast and perhaps we can meet face-to-face with some West Coast TORA members who would otherwise not attend the Long-Range Planning Meeting.”

Detailed information will be mailed to all TORA member companies shortly. You may also contact TORA staff liaison Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org for more information.


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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.

Manufacturers Seeking Rep List Now Available

Manufacturers’ representatives are encouraged to contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org 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 March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.

MPMC Column in SEMA Member News

Read MPMC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.

 


PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting

The annual PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting is slated for Thursday and Friday, June 18–19, 2009, in Detroit. 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. Lunch is included both days, with a continental breakfast also included on Friday morning.

The Long-Range Planning Meeting begins at 11:00 a.m. Thursday morning, continues through lunch and then moves into breakout groups in the afternoon. The breakout groups continue on Friday. Everyone will reconvene mid-morning on Friday for breakout reports and a box lunch before adjourning at 1:00 p.m., in time for those early afternoon flights back home.

There is no better opportunity to share ideas and plan for solutions than at the PRO Long-Range Planning Meeting. Official meeting notices will go out shortly with more details. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.


PRO Business Development Guidebook Now On Sale

 

In today’s ever-changing marketplace, staying ahead of the competition is more important and challenging than ever. To be successful, you not only need an effective business strategy, but also the tools and resources to help your company excel and stand out from the pack. The PRO Business Development Guidebook is your handy reference guide.

 

Beginning with an overview of the importance of having a business plan—including tips on how to develop a business plan and the many purposes it can serve—the manual offers chapter-by-chapter strategies for making your business a success.

 

From understanding the basics of business finance and the importance of quality and service and how to make them hallmarks of your business, to building knowledge and skills among your employees to branding your restyling business as a market leader, the guidebook offers information critical to the day-to-day and long-term operation of your business.

 

Whether you’re starting your own restyling business or already own one—be it mobile or brick and mortar—you’ll find the answers that you’ve been looking for in the guidebook. PRO Council members contributed much of the information contained in the guidebook, drawing on their experience and knowledge to present a valuable business tool.

 

To order the PRO business guidebook, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

 

PRO Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read PRO's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.

SPC Column in SEMA Member News

Read SPC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

 

For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.


WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting

Attend the WTC Long-Range Planning Meeting and help shape the course of the council’s agenda. It’s time to voice your opinion.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2009, from 10:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. at:

 

SEMA Headquarters
AAA Building—Second Floor
1577 South Valley Vista Dr.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765

 

RSVP by Friday, May 8, 2009 to Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

WTC Column in SEMA Member News

 

Read WTC's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.

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Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.


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.

 

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program.

 

SBN Column in SEMA Member News

Read SBN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.


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.

 

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.

For more information on the SEMA Mentoring Program, click here.

YEN Column in SEMA Member News

Read YEN's column featured in the March/April issue of SEMA Member News.

For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.