Filler for eNews
Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
On the recent Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour, SEMA Action Network (SAN) Director Jason Tolleson met with numerous SAN members who each voiced their support for the Association’s legislative grassroots effort. With more than 30,000 members in the United States and Canada, including 4,000 car clubs, SAN members receive free updates on pending legislative issues in their state or province.
“Whether they were long-time supporters or just heard about us for the first time, it was great to connect with enthusiasts who are passionate about preserving this hobby,” said Tolleson. “They are a powerful force in working to enact pro-hobby, pro-industry legislation.”
During this seven-day, seven-state tour, SEMA staff registered over 600 new enthusiasts for the SAN. Here are just a few things people had to say about the SAN:
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If everybody would join together with the SAN, then we would be able to keep the laws working for the hobby. After I get Driving Force in the mail I take it to my club meetings. If we don’t educate lawmakers, then who will?
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I joined the SAN two years ago because it’s important to keep this around for younger generations. I take copies of Driving Force to work so my co-workers can read it.
- John Lucas |
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I love getting the newsletter every month. It keeps us posted on legislative issues across the country. Getting the SEMA Street Rod Bill signed into law in Florida was a major victory for enthusiasts.
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I enjoy reading the latest news and alerts in the newsletter. After I finish reading it, I take the newsletter to our club. We need to keep this sport going. It’s awesome to see people getting good laws passed or defeating bad ones. - Glenn and Donna Baumann |
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If you want this hobby of ours to continue in the future, you better get involved. There are those out there who don’t understand our hobby, and we have to educate them. It takes little effort to respond to the alerts from the SAN. However, it does take all of us working together to ensure that our kids or grandkids have the same opportunities that we have at shows and events to enjoy this hobby.
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We wouldn’t be doing what we are doing if people don’t get involved. From the problems of titling customs to other issues, it is important to have the laws work in our favor.
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Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
ENGINE MEETING: Representatives from multiple car manufacturers met at Indianapolis Motor Speedway last week to discuss possible engine specifications for the IndyCar Series beginning in 2011 and beyond. The roundtable discussion was hosted by Honda and the IRL and drew reps from Audi, BMW, Chevrolet and Mazda, among others.
CONCERNS: In the wake of the accident that killed Funny Car racer Scott Kalitta, the NHRA announced an initiative to address several issues, including speed, engine explosions, run-off areas and parachutes in hopes of improving safety within drag racing.
NO TO INDY: The tentative 2009 Formula One schedule has been released, and there is no date at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Still, speedway officials hope to bring back the world’s most popular racing series before the track’s centennial celebration in 2011.
RETIRING: Longtime Ford Racing Technology Director Dan Davis will retire August 1.
PROMOTED: Toyota promoted Lee White as president and general manager of Toyota Racing Development.
EXTENDED: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Greg Biffle has reached a three-year extension with Roush Fenway Racing to continue driving the No. 16 Ford.
OUSTED: Casey Mears will not return to Hendrick Motorsports next season. The second-generation driver is expected to be replaced in the No. 25 Chevy by veteran racer Mark Martin.
POWER RANKINGS: With a weekend sweep of World of Outlaws (WoO) sprint-car competition, Donny Schatz returned to the top of the National Speed Sport News Power Rankings. Schatz won seven races (six WoO) during the month of June. The National Speed Sport News Power Rankings are published weekly in the 74-year-old motorsports publication
SUBSCRIBE: National Speed Sport News has been published weekly since 1934. To subscribe to National Speed Sport News, click on the following link for a special industry rate: www.nationalspeedsportnews.com/subscribe.html?pid=NQ%2BVfhkepT4%3D.
Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
NEWS NUGGETS
T. PED PICKS UP THIRD; HERBERT WINS ONE FOR HIS BOYS; ARANA GETS FIRST WIN OF 18-YEAR CAREER AT NORWALK: Emotions ran high in winner's circle for all professional categories Sunday at the second annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio. In Top Fuel, Doug Herbert raced to his first win of the season and 10th win of his career. Herbert dedicated the win to the memory of his two sons, Jon and James, who were killed in an auto accident in late January.
In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Hector Arana picked up his first career win after 18 years of competition. In Funny Car, defending POWERade world champion Tony Pedregon picked up his third Wally of the season, driving past runner-up and No. 1 qualifier, Robert Hight. Pedregon dedicated his win to the late Scott Kalitta, who died two weeks earlier from injuries sustained during a high-speed accident during qualifying at the Lucas Oil NHRA SuperNationals.
Pro Stock's Greg Anderson raced to his second consecutive win and fourth of the season at his title sponsor's event.
JOHNSON PICKS UP FIRST CAREER K&N HORSEPOWER CHALLENGE WIN IN NORWALK: In his fifth appearance in the event, Pro Stock driver Allen Johnson cut a perfect light against runner-up Greg Anderson to earn $50,000 and his first K&N Horsepower Challenge Saturday in Norwalk, Ohio. Qualifying in the No. 2 spot for the event, Johnson beat both Kurt and Warren Johnson en route to his final round appearance against Anderson and his eventual win.
He became just the 11th driver in the event's history to win the challenge. Anderson took home $10,000 for his runner-up finish. Kurt Johnson and Jeg Coughlin earned $3,000 each for their semifinal finishes and Ron Krisher, Warren Johnson, Jason Line and Dave Connolly took home $2,500 for making the field.
CONCRETE PLACING NEARLY COMPLETE IN RIGHT LANES AT zMAX DRAGWAY: As the inaugural NHRA Carolinas Nationals draws closer, crews began placing concrete in the right two lanes of the four-lane zMAX Dragway @ Concord. Placing began Monday of last week and will continue through July 3 as crews prepare the quarter-mile for the September 11–14 event. Due to the summer heat, all placing occurs late in the evening and through the night.
COMING ATTRACTIONS
MOPAR MILE-HIGH NHRA NATIONALS, BANDIMERE SPEEDWAY, JULY 11–13: The NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series returns to the Mile-High city for the beginning of the Western Swing and 50th anniversary of Bandimere Speedway. Defending event winners include Rod Fuller (Top Fuel); Jack Beckman (Funny Car); Allen Johnson (Pro Stock); and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle).
SCHUCK'S AUTO SUPPLY NHRA NATIONALS, PACIFIC RACEWAYS, JULY 18–20: The NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series heads to the northwest for the second race on the famed Western Swing. Defending event winners include Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel); Jack Beckman (Funny Car); and Dave Connolly (Pro Stock).
FRAM AUTOLITE NHRA NATIONALS, INFINEON RACEWAY, JULY 25–27: Heading to the beautiful Napa Valley, the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series travels to northern California for the third and final race of the Western Swing. Defending event winners include Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel); John Force (Funny Car); Greg Anderson (Pro Stock); and Matt Smith (Pro Stock Motorcycle).
HE SAID, SHE SAID
THIS ONE'S FOR THE BOYS: Top Fuel driver Doug Herbert on his win Sunday at the Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals, a win he dedicated to the memory of his late sons, Jon and James:
"Going up there (for the final round) I knew I was going to dig down and give it everything I had. I just wanted to do everything I could to win because I didn't want to have a mistake that I made cost us the race. Luckily I have my little lucky charm (daughter Jessie) with me, and we did a lot of thinking about her brothers today, and I'm sure they were riding with me on that final-round win."
INSIDE THE NUMBERS
4.584: The track record for time at Bandimere Speedway, set by Joe Amato nine years ago. The record ties the track records for time in Top Fuel at Houston Raceway Park and Virginia Motorsports Park (both set by Gary Scelzi) as the oldest track records in the NHRA POWERade Series.
DID YOU KNOW...
...that Bandimere Speedway installed a track-cooling system during the off-season that cools the launching pad surface up to 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
Courtney Hansen is the star and host of a new show on Spike TV named “Great Builds,” which premieres on August 17. Hansen will review the best custom cars, hot rods and truck builds in the country and interview builders and other experts about the custom rides. Hansen currently hosts Spike TV’s “Power Block,” a two-hour block of automotive-related programming featuring hot cars and trucks and the latest industry news.
Courtney Hansen
TEN Media LLC hired Kathryn Wakeford as media planning specialist to lead client/media services, which was officially launched in 2008 when Internet Pioneering Inc. acquired the assets of The Enthusiast Network. She was the previous company’s director of client services and media planning for three years, which included managing pre- and post-sales activities. She managed all aspects of media planning, including forecasting, flighting and reporting, on client campaigns across the TEN Media websites.
Bridgestone Americas Holding Inc. promoted Dan MacDonald, currently director of media relations, to executive director of communications. MacDonald is in charge of managing internal and external corporate communications and is responsible for ensuring that all information regarding the company is clear and consistent. He will also manage the company’s corporate image advertising efforts.
Fidanza announced that it is an in-game sponsor of the video game "GRID," which is available now for the Playstation 3, Xbox 360 and Nintendo DS video game systems. Fidanza’s logo is prominent throughout the game on car liveries and trackside. For more information about "GRID," visit www.grid-game.com.
Fidanza is an in-game sponsor of the video game "GRID."
The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) announced that for the third consecutive season, advance ticket sales are setting records for the CARS RV & Marine & Motorsport Rocky Mountain Nationals presented by Torco Racing Fuels. Set for the Castrol Raceway in Edmonton, the nationals begin on July 4 with professional and sportsman qualifying. More information is available at www.nitrojam.com.
Eastern Catalytic was ranked 77 in the top 100 automotive aftermarket suppliers for 2008 in a study conducted by the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) and sponsored by Ernst & Young. According to George Schafer, President of Eastern Manufacturing, “We are delighted to be a part of such a prestigious group and proud to be a member of AASA. Over the past few years, Eastern has experienced dramatic growth, despite a very challenging marketplace. We have also expanded our presence globally with a thriving export business. Our major investments in manufacturing and R&D, along with our steadfast commitment to quality and innovation, have truly paid off.”
Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
Click on the logo to visit ARMO's website.
ARMO Council Announces Election Results
Effective July 1, 2008, Jim Barber of Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc. has assumed the Chairman position, with Laura Bergan of American Collectors Insurance Inc. taking the Chairman-Elect seat.
ARMO welcomes its newly elected leaders and looks forward to working closely with them. Join us in welcoming:
- Ken DeVries – Auto Trader Classics
- Michael Manning – American Autowire
- Sal Perez – American Muscle Car
ARMO welcomes back its returning members:
- Jeff Broadus – Car Collector Magazine
- Kim Mitchell – Eaton Detroit Spring Inc.
- Sheila Perkins – Bradley David Productions
- Alex Tainsh – Trim Parts Inc.
ARMO thanks its retiring member Walter Vaughan of Steele Rubber Products for his years of dedication and volunteer service to the ARMO membership.
Contact Chairman Barber and Chairman-Elect Bergan or any of the Select Committee members with any questions or to introduce yourself to them. Jan Desma, SEMA council relations director and staff liaison for ARMO, can be reached at 909/396-0289, ext. 134 or e-mail jand@sema.org.
ARMO Column in SEMA Member News
Read ARMO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
ARMO Select Committee Elections
If you have any questions about the election, contact Jan Desma at 909/396-0289, ext. 134, or jand@sema.org.
For more information about ARMO, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit HRIA's website.
HRIA Announces New Leadership Team
Effective July 1, 2008, the council welcomes its newest members to the select committee. Please join us in welcoming:
- Sandie Denton – Made For You Products
- Kerry Hopperstad – Hopperstad Customs
HRIA welcomes back its returning members:
- Ed Capen – Goodguys Rod and Custom Association
- John McLeod – Classic Instruments Inc.
- John Menzler – Comp Performance Group
- Stacy Tucker – Detroit Speed and Engineering Inc.
HRIA thanks its retiring members Yogi Somerville of Yogi’s Inc. and Chico Kodama of Mooneyes USA Inc. for years of dedication and volunteer service to the membership of HRIA.
Jeanette Ladina of Flaming River Industries Inc. and Dennis Overholser of Painless Performance continue in their leadership roles as chairman and chairman-elect, respectively.
Contact Chairman Ladina and Chairman-Elect Overholser or any of the select committee members with any questions or to introduce yourself to them.
Jan Desma, SEMA council relations director and staff liaison for HRIA, can be reached at 909/396-0289, ext. 134 or e-mail jand@sema.org.
A Message From HRIA Chairman-Elect Dennis Overholser
Fellow Council Leaders:
HRIA has purchased two pinewood cars for the upcoming Pinewood Drag Race at the Gala. Each committee person has chipped in with a donation, and two committee members are building the cars. After the races, the cars will be donated to the two charities—one for each charity—for the kids to enjoy. I challenge each of you to do the same: To not only help the kids with a cash donation, but the more cars we can give them, the more fun they can have in the future.
Dennis Overholser,
HRIA Chairman-Elect
HRIA Column in SEMA Member News
Read HRIA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
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.
Webinar CD added to TORA’s List of Member Benefits
The TORA, in conjunction with the SEMA education and marketing departments, has created a CD compilation of SEMA webinars. Having access to webinars online is a great SEMA-member benefit, but listening to one still requires sitting down at the computer and downloading.
With this CD, TORA members can listen to 11 TORA-relevant seminars without the need for Internet access. You can listen in the car or on a plane. If you are savvy enough to convert and load the files onto your iPod, you can even listen to them while tearing up the treadmill!
The 11 seminars included on the CD are:
- Making sure your web store is open for business
- Secrets to marketing a highly effective website
- How reps can help installers sell to car dealers
- Your customer doesn’t live here any more
- How manufacturers can communicate more effectively with distributors and customers
- The mindset of leadership—timeless qualities of a successful leader
- Lean Manufacturing—how to eliminate waste in manufacturing and distribution
- Management strategies for the most challenging situations
- Six Sigma—the secret weapon of success
- Financial management for the non-financial manager
- Get Paid: Avoiding slow/non-paying customers and collecting debt.
For a copy of the "TORA Education & Training Benefits Webinar CD," TORA members can contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org. The 11 seminars featured on the CD are but a small sampling of what’s available from the SEMA website. On the SEMA homepage, click on “Shows and Events” then “webinars.” You can search the webinars by author or topic.
TORA Column in SEMA Member News
Read TORA's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
Select Committee Election Update
Select Committee nominations are now closed. The list of nominees will be reviewed by the TORA election task force, and a ballot will be mailed to all TORA members in the next few weeks. Please keep an eye out for this mailing, and above all, VOTE!
For information about the TORA, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit MPMC's website.
New Chairman-Elect
Kyle Fickler of Aeromotive Inc. was elected to the position of MPMC Chairman-Elect during a Select Committee meeting held on January 25, following the annual MPMC Media Trade Conference. Fickler is a current member of the MPMC Select Committee and will take over duties as chairman-elect on July 1. On that same date, current Chairman-Elect Bill Floyd becomes Chairman of MPMC when Lisa Chissus’ two-year term as MPMC chairperson ends.
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News
Read MPMC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit MRC's website.
The New MRC
Effective July 1, 2008, Joel Rosenthal of Gantt-Thomas & Associates Inc. moved into the position of Chairman of the MRC, with Wade Cobb of Hapco LLC as his wing-man and chairman-elect.
We look forward to working closely with MRC’s newly elected members:
- Tommy Jourdan – True High Performance Sales
- Les Rudd – Bob Cook Sales
We welcome back returning select committee members:
- Bill Chamberlain – JSC&A
- Evan Mecham – Evan Mecham & Associates
And we thank the following retiring members for their years of volunteer service and dedication to the MRC:
- Bob Bader – Hapco
- Mark Adin – PSKB
- Zane Shaffer – Wes-Coast Marketing
- Alex Walker – Bob Cook Sales
MRC re-evaluated and decreased the amount of seats on the Select Committee thus allowing more focus on membership participation. The council has 14 leaders on the Select Committee serving its membership.
Please feel free to contact Chairman Rosenthal and Chairman-Elect Cobb or any of the select committee members with any questions or to introduce yourself to them. Staci Bostock, SEMA Council Relations Coordinator and staff liaison for MRC, can be reached at 909/396-0289, ext. 104 or e-mail stacib@sema.org.
MRC Column in SEMA Member News
Read MRC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
For information about MRC, contact Staci Bostock at stacib@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit PRO's website.
Select Committee Election Update
Select Committee nominations are now closed. The list of nominees is being reviewed by the PRO elections task force, and a ballot will be mailed to all PRO members in the next few weeks. Please keep an eye out for this mailing, and above all, VOTE!
PRO Column in SEMA Member News
Read PRO's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
For information about PRO, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit SBN's website.
Congratulations to the Newly Elected SBN Select Committee Members
The ballots are in and the votes have been counted for elections of the 2008 SBN Select Committee. With record voter turnout and a slate of excellent candidates, the SBN Select Committee elected to add two seats bringing the count to 17. It was an exciting and close race. We now have two new members of the Select Committee, and five returning incumbents.
I would like to welcome our two newest members:
- Daytona Dayton - President, Daytona & Friends Global Enterprises Inc.
- Rose Kawasaki - Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Exports International
And we are glad to see the return of our five incumbents:
- Lee McGuire - Skyjacker Suspensions
- Bianca Hennings - Window Canvas
- Tracy Teuscher - The Buzz Maker!
- Lauren Fix - Classic Tube
- Leslie Maxwell - The Marx Group
Their two-year terms begin July 1, 2008. We look forward to an exciting future for the SBN with many new and improved programs.
Thank you to everyone who participated in the elections.
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 program, click here.
SBN Select Committee Election
If you have any questions about the Select Committee elections, contact Jan Desma at 909/396-0289, ext. 134 or jand@sema.org.
SEMA Speed Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN
Check out this video of SBN members in action during the valuable SEMA Speed Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN held annually at the SEMA Show. Check out the video by clicking here
SBN Column in SEMA Member News
Read SBN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
For information about SBN, contact Jan Desma at jand@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit SPC's website.
Improve Your Online Presence and Message at SEMA’s Internet Symposium
Discover better ways to connect with your customers through the SEMA Internet Symposium on July 25, in Irvine, California. From everyday products to specialty items, the Internet has changed the way customers research and buy. To meet the needs of the more empowered consumer, businesses need to take advantage of opportunities through the Internet to deliver product messages and drive sales. Whether your company is ready to learn the fundamentals or prepared for focused Internet solutions, take advantage of the 2008 SEMA Internet Symposium on July 25.
The symposium’s curriculum covers broad-based topics, such as Internet marketing and understanding legal rights online, as well as more advanced subjects, such as pay-per-click web design and web-based customer relationship management.
The event is facilitated by SEMA’s Street Performance Council, and course descriptions, complete information and registration for the SEMA Internet Symposium are available by clicking here. The 2008 SEMA Internet Symposium is held in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. For more information on the Gala and its related fundraising activities, click here.
New Council Name
The SEMA Board of Directors has approved Street Performance Council (SPC) as the replacement for the Sport-Compact Council (SCC) name. The council’s current Select Committee recommended the change to better serve its members in the extremely diverse street-performance industry. The council is committed to maintaining its mission statement and current objectives—to provide market information, education and support members concerning new and emerging trends. This council name represents a broader market and provides new growth and educational opportunities for the diverse council membership.
SPC Chairman Eric Breslow remarks, “As SEMA itself has expanded to include different facets of the automotive aftermarket, the street-performance parts manufacturers and distributors didn’t have an exclusive council representing their interests. Some gravitated to the Sport-Compact Council, but with our new name, member benefits and initiatives, we welcome those diverse companies with open arms.”
A Message From SPC Chairman Eric Breslow
Dear SPC Member:
In today's volatile economy, member companies must exploit every opportunity to get product messages in front of the end consumer and drive that all-important purchase dollar to their coffers. All levels of commerce have unprecedented access to product knowledge via the Internet. Take advantage of another exclusive SEMA-member benefit and attend the 2008 Internet Symposium, July 25, 2008, in Irvine, California.
Your SPC Select Committee has been busy developing this year's Internet Symposium. Thanks to attendee suggestions from last year, the day's events have been split into two separate tracks. One for people who are seeking a broad "50,000-ft." view of understanding how the Internet impacts an individual business, and a more focused track for in-depth Internet solutions.
It is the mission of SPC to make sure that our valued members have the first opportunity to sign up. Last year we sold out in just one week. For the schedule and online registration, click here.
See you in July.
Best regards,
Eric Breslow, SPC Chairman
SPC Column in SEMA Member News
Read SPC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
For information about SPC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit WTC's website.
Congratulations to the Newly Elected WTC Select Committee Members
- Linda Blumer - SenDel Wheel/TIRECO Inc.
- Barry Horlick - Voxx Products Inc.
- Jim Husted - Discount Tire Co.
- David Insull - American Tire Distributors
- Bob Riegel - Bridgestone/Firestone - Incumbent
- Carl Robinson - Mickey Thompson Performance Tires - Incumbent
- Brandon Stotsenburg - Mobile Awareness LLC - Incumbent
- Shelly Urwiler - Ultra Wheel
WTC Column in SEMA Member News
Read WTC's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
For information about WTC, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.
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Click on the logo to visit YEN's website.
Congratulations to the Newly Elected YEN Select Committee Members
- Tim Watts - Superlift Suspension Systems - Incumbent
- Fred Snow - Hella Inc. - Incumbent
- Rachel Fernandez - TruXedo by Shur-Co Automotive
- Lee McGuire - Skyjacker Suspensions - Incumbent
Join YEN
Did you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has over 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.
SEMA Silent Auction
Efforts for the 2008 SEMA Silent Auction are beginning NOW! To learn more about the silent auction and how it has raised nearly $150,000 for SEMA scholarships in the last two years, visit the SEMA Silent Auction website at www.semasilentauction.com.
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 program, click here.
YEN Column in SEMA Member News
Read YEN's column featured in the May/June issue of SEMA Member News by clicking here.
For information about YEN, contact Paul Moritz at paulm@sema.org.
Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
Emcee Dave McClelland hosts proceedings at the 2007 SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser.
The annual SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser on Friday, July 25, serves to not only thank the association's outgoing Board members and welcome those newly elected, but also to announce the newest inductees into the SEMA Hall of Fame. This year's inductees are Raymond Bleiweis, Ben Nighthorse Campbell, Corky Coker and Bob Cook—an elite group of industry innovators and pioneers who have played a key role in the automotive specialty-equipment market.
This year's event is further underscored by a program of charitable fundraising activities that includes the Pinewood Drag Race Sponsored by Fellers and DUB Publishing and a silent auction.
Proceeds from all fundraising benefits SEMA's two chosen charities, Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Childhelp aids victims of child abuse and originally began receiving support from wheel manufacturers in 1994. It now garners significant contributions from a wide range of industry businesses.
Victory Junction Gang Camp, founded in 2004 by Kyle and Pattie Petty in honor of their son Adam, has received support from the Light-Truck Accessory Alliance and others in the industry. Victory Junction uses camping experiences in its racing-themed facilities to enrich the lives of children who suffer from chronic medical conditions or illnesses.
Tickets and details for the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser, including a schedule of activities and auction donation forms, are available at www.sema.org/gala or by contacting Lisa Moreno at lisam@sema.org or 909/396-0289, ext. 105.
Charity Auction
Finally, SEMA will host a live and silent auction during the banquet, with auction items ranging from sports memorabilia to a 2006 Victory motorcycle owned and donated by Kyle Petty. To donate an item, contact Tricia Ward at triciaw@sema.org. Some of the items include:
Kyle Petty's 2006 Victory Jackpot motorcycle. Donated by Kyle Petty Charity Ride.
Brett Favre-autographed Wilson football. Donated by Rick Rollins.
Peyton Manning-autographed Wilson football. Donated by Motorola.
Lawrence Taylor-autographed Wilson football. Donated by Motorola.
Trick Your Truck Package, including accessories from Mickey Thompson, Superlift Suspension Systems, Rampage Products, Bushwacker and more.
Greer Black Dragster replica, 1:6 scale and over 28 inches long. Donated by GMP Die Cast.
2x8 advertising space for one year on the guardwall of Virginia Motorsports Park's dragstrip, home of the Torco Racing Fuels NHRA Nationals. Donated by Virginia Motorsports Park.
HPI Racing E10 R/C drift car, featuring a shaft drive 4WD system, independent suspension, slicks and a high-torque 540 motor (click here for more details). Also offered in the auction are the Wheely King 4x4 R/C monster truck and Subaru Impreza precision diecast. Donated by HPI Racing.
12-band Maximum Performance digital radar/laser detector with full-color Extreme Bright DataGraphix display. Donated by Cobra Electronics.
A signed copy of How to Wire Your Hot Rod by author Dennis Overholser. Donated by Dennis Overholser of Painless Performance.
Motorola T305 portable Bluetooth hands-free kit. Donated by Motorola.
Accura 1 Digital Tire Inflation Gauge. Donated by PCL Air Technology.
2006 Budweiser/Lucas Oil TF Team crew uniform shirt signed by Kenny and Brandon Bernstein. Donated by Kenny Bernstein Racing.
Pair of Maui Jim sunglasses. Donated by Joel Ayres.
Wireless remote controlled searchlight. Donated by Golight Inc.
'55 Chevy neon clock. Donated by Southern Speed & Custom.
"The Morning Rush Hour" framed print. Donated by 1-800-EveryRim.com.
Original pencil drawing of a post-war-styled hot rod going flat out on dry lake bed. Used as cover art of SEMA News magazine, May 2008. Donated by artist Colby Martin.
The Ultimate "My Classic Car" Gift Pack: Premium "My Classic Car" goods, including a set of (6) Matchbox cars, DVD sets of 2006 and 2007 episodes, Legendary Fords DVD, autographed photo of Dennis Gage and more. Donated by Bradley David Productions.
(4) Saturday Top Eliminator Club tickets (TEC) and (1) TEC parking pass for either the 2008 Automobile Club of Southern California NHRA Finals or the 2009 Carquest Auto Parts NHRA Winternationals, VIP tour and a ride in the Full Throttle Express. Donated by NHRA.
(4) tickets to Los Angeles Dodgers game (vs. Arizona Diamondbacks, August 2, 7 p.m.) at Dodger Stadium. Preferred parking included. Donated by Joe Sebergandio/Motor Media Inc.
(2) tickets to "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." Donated by SEMA Cares.
(2) complimentary dinners at Benihana at the Las Vegas Hilton. Donated by the Las Vegas Hilton.
(2) complimentary dinners at Casa Nicola Restaurant. Donated by Las Vegas Hilton.
(2) nights for two at Cibolo Creek Ranch, Big Bend, Texas. Meals included. Donated by Leer Truck Accessories Group/Cibolo Creek Ranch.
Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas—3-day/2-night package. Donated by Planet Hollywood.
Other items include:
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A reserved spot on the 2009 Kyle Petty Ride Across America motorcycle ride (includes [9] nights hotel accommodations, fuel for [1] motorcycle at all pit stops—motorcycle not included—all scheduled meals, and a commemorative designer leather jacket). Donated by Kyle Petty Charity Ride.
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Voiceover services for 5- to 7-minute video production for use as point-of-purchase display, product explanation and demonstration, booth exhibit at trade show, product installation, etc. (winning bidder provides copy). Donated by Dave McClelland.
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Voiceover services for a telephone answering device, with opening greeting and any other necessary announcements regarding hours of operation, forwarding to extensions, etc. (winning bidder provides copy). Donated by Dave McClelland.
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Private viewing of the Smith Collection, the world’s largest collection of vintage to exotic racing engines, cars, speed equipment, pedal cars and more, at the Museum of American Speed in Lincoln, Nebraska. Tour guided by Bill “Speedy” Smith for (2) groups of four guests (same-day tour required). Includes lunch. Donated by Bill and Joyce Smith.
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Two (2) front stretch tower grandstand tickets to the 2009 Shootout Under the Lights at Daytona International Speedway (February 14, 2009). Includes (2) admissions into the Sprint Fanzone located in the infield. Donated by Daytona International Speedway.
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Gift basket including (2) shirts, $500 gift certificate, Mother’s bucket of detailing items and a custom-painted bowling pin. Donated by L&G Enterprises.
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Horizon 4 Mammoth Lakes condominium rental. One-bedroom condo for 7 nights; sleeps four and includes a spa, pool and tennis court. Located near shops, restaurants and across the street from bus stop for Mammoth Mountain. Donated by the Marx Group.
- Two large paintings from the 2007 SEMA Show Banquet. Donated by SEMA.
- GPI (Great Plains Industries) Bulk Oil transfer pump, 115v and 16 quarts-per-minute flow rate. Includes hose, nozzle and suction pipe (intended use: dispensing non-flammable fluids, such as waste oil, hydraulic fluids, antifreeze and oil-based solvents). Mounts directly to tanks or barrels. Donated by GPI.
- (2) Half-hour golf lessons with pro Scott Miller at North Ranch Country Club, Westlake Village, California. Donated by Scott Miller/PGA.
- (2) daily tickets to any two days of the 2008 Chevron World Challenge Event (December 18–21, 2008) at Sherwood Country Club. For more details, click here. Donated by Joe Reda, Tiger Woods Foundation.
- Thermal Flex high-performance silicone hose (winning bidder contacts Thermal Flex for desired sizes and colors). Donated by Thermal Flex.
- GT Toolboxes Model 111 Toolbox Hutch, size 26 x 66 x 33 with 58,375 cu in volume. Donated by GT Toolboxes.
- (4) Safe-T-Boost, The Intelligent Booster Cable System, units. Donated by Autoeffex.com.
- Certificate for a World Class Driving Experience for a driver and passenger (restrictions apply). List of likely cars includes Audi R8, Ferrari F430 and Mercedes SLR McLaren. Donated by Source Interlink Media.
- Certificate for five-hour Performance Driving Course. Check www.bondurant.com for details. Donated by Bob Bondurant High Performance School of Driving.
- (6) Clean Breeze Truck Screens. Donated by Clean Breeze Truck Screens.
- Floorshift Tilt column (2-inch diameter, 32-inch length), polished stainless steel universal joints, Water Fall steering wheel, Water Feel steering wheel adapter, 18-inch stainless steel shaft. Donated by Flaming River Industries.
- SPEEDcat Express—allows manufacturers to create and present e-commerce-compliant data to consumers directly through Digital Performance's Shopping Guide Network. Donated by Digital Performance.
Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
SEMA Show exhibitors: Get some extra company exposure at the 2008 SEMA Show by offering your products to builders through the SEMA Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list. Included each week in SEMA eNews, the list is accessed by hundreds of builders seeking the pieces that add extra flair to their project vehicles. 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 in the list, submit the form included with the SEMA Show Exhibitor Prospectus. Or, send your company name, a brief product description, your SEMA Show booth number and contact information 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. Each submission appears in eNews once and then is moved to the SEMA.org website. Check out the all the products offered by clicking here.
Here are this week's offerings from exhibitors:
Engine/Underhood Components
ANSA Automotive Parts Distributors Inc.: Tips, including truck tips, and systems for diesel. Contact: Lauren Thomas, LaurenT@ANSAautomotive.com, 478/788-6653, ext. 116.
MBRPinc: Performance exhaust systems and accessories for Ford, Dodge, Chevy/GMC, Nissan, and Toyota trucks, as well as Mustang, Corvette, Magnum, Charger and Jeep. Contact: Barbara Bloomfield, bbloomfield@mbrp.com, 888/636-7223.
Zoom Performance Products: Clutch sets for both domestic and import vehicles. Contact: Eric Waters, ewaters@zoomperformance.com.
Exterior Components/Accessories
Carriage Works Inc.: Billet grille inserts, Marque Mesh Grilles, roll pan kits and exhaust tips. Contact: Bob Van Vilet, justbob@carriageworksinc.com, 816/966-1405.
DAMAR Corporation: The DAMAR TruckDeck—a total truck-bed storage and organization product available for most popular pickups. TruckDeck is made from aluminum diamond tread plate and featuring lockable hatches and removable storage containers. Additional products include the TruckDeck LT, TruckDeck Professional, TruckDeck Outfitter and the DAMAR TuffBox. Contact: Casey Clapper, casey@mcculloughpr.com. Website: www.damartruckdeck.com.
SilverHorse Racing: 1994–2004 Mustang fuel door; 2005+ Mustang honeycomb taillight panel; 2005+ Mustang flush-mount window louvers; 2005+ Mustang Tru-Billet aluminum fuel door; 2005+ Mustang Tru-Billet aluminum rear medallion; 2005+ Mustang Tru-Billet E-brake handle; 2005+ Mustang GT lower front grille insert; 2007+ Mustang California Special/Shelby GT lower grille insert. Contact: Marcello Canitano, 321/722-2813. Website: www.SilverHorseRacing.com.
Interior Components/Accessories
SilverHorse Racing: 1994–2004 Mustang interior door handles; 2005+ Mustang mirror control knob (also fits Ford F-Series, Fusion, Focus); 2005+ Mustang Tru-Billet E-brake handle; 2005+ Mustang Tru-Billet shifter bezel; 2005–2006 Mustang Tru-Billet climate control knobs; 2007–2009 Mustang Tru-Billet climate control knobs; 2005+ Mustang Tru-Billet cup holder bezel. Contact: Marcello Canitano, 321/722-2813. Website: www.SilverHorseRacing.com.
Suspension/Brake Components
Hellwig Products Co. Inc.: Heavy-duty sway bars, air suspension and load-assist products for domestic and import trucks (both lifted and lowered). Also offering high-performance sway bars for vintage cars and musclecars. Contact Nancy Souza, nancy@hellwigproducts.com, 800/367-5480. Website: www.hellwigproducts.com.
Thu, 07/03/2008 - 00:00
From everyday products to specialty items, the Internet has changed the way customers research and buy. To meet the needs of the more empowered consumer, businesses need to take advantage of opportunities through the Internet to deliver product messages and drive sales. Whether your company is ready to learn the fundamentals or prepared for focused Internet solutions, take advantage of the 2008 SEMA Internet Symposium on July 25, in Irvine, California.
The symposium’s curriculum covers broad-based topics, such as Internet marketing and understanding legal rights online, as well as more advanced subjects, such as pay-per-click web design and web-based customer relationship management.
The event is facilitated by SEMA’s Street Performance Council, and course descriptions, complete information and registration for the SEMA Internet Symposium are available by clicking here. The 2008 SEMA Internet Symposium is held in conjunction with the SEMA Installation Banquet & Gala Fundraiser. For more information on the gala and its related fundraising activities, click here.