By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.
 

Pedal Commander

Business-to-Business Account Manager in Camarillo, California

As business-to-business account manager with Pedal Commander, your primary focus will be managing and growing relationships with the company's business clients.

 

Malco Automotive

National Sales Manager in Barberton, Ohio

Malco Automotive is seeking a national sales manager to lead and execute sales strategy of the domestic automotive business and manage a team of regional sales and business development managers.

 

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Whether you're an employer or an industry professional, the SEMA Career Center offers powerful tools—like resume writing help, coaching and employer search features for job seekers, plus free internship postings and affordable access to qualified candidates for employers. Get started at jobs.sema.org. 

SEMA makes no representation or warranty of any kind concerning the reliability or accuracy of information provided directly or indirectly on or through semajobs.com or its related sites. All information is provided on an "as-is" basis. Users of this site do so at their own risk. Read more Terms & Conditions here.

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Spy photographers have once again caught several upcoming vehicles undergoing testing, giving an early glimpse at what's to come before they officially debut.

BMW X7 Prototype Makes it to the Nürburgring

 

A prototype of the BMW X7--first spotted this summer--has finally made it to Germany's most challenging racetrack, the legendary Nürburgring. Although the prototype is cloaked in camouflage, a few interesting details stand out, including the visible quad-exhaust system that all but confirms this is an M Performance model. As with all future gas versions, the not-quite-M model is dropping the "i" from its name. Look for this version to simply be called the X7 M60 xDrive.
 

The profile of the prototype gives the impression that we're looking at a larger vehicle than the current model, thanks to slightly bigger quarter glass, suggesting a more spacious cabin with additional rear legroom. The new X7 also adopts the small winglets on the beltline already seen on the next-gen X5, according to the images.

 

The daytime running lights (DRLs), which double as turn signals, are mounted low on the front fascia next to the main beams. The DRLs have a rather unusual design, with two separate, almost perpendicular bars. However, BMW might be trying to fool onlookers. These are clearly temporary headlights, and insiders suspect there might be an upper strip of lights on the bumper's top section that the camouflage obscures.

The kidney grille appears nicely proportioned, though it's certainly not small. At the rear, the taillights look basic, but that's because they're also temporary, sources said. It stands to reason that the production lights will extend onto the tailgate, which likely retains the split-opening design, judging by how the camouflage is interrupted.

 

BMW cleverly disguised the prototype with extra panels held by black rivets. The rear pillars are hidden under thicker cladding, suggesting the glass area aft of the rear doors is larger than it appears. Blue brake callipers and 22-in. wheels wrapped in Continental tires hint at an M Sport Package.

Since the images suggest this is an M model, there's likely a V8 under the hood. The new S68 engine already powers today's X7 M60i, so its successor will probably keep the mild-hybrid 4.4-L twin-turbo V8. It produces 523 horsepower in the current car.

 

New Nissan JUKE in Development

 

The first images have emerged of the new Nissan JUKE, the eagerly awaited B-segment SUV. The photos leave no room for doubt, as they show the new model, which not only maintains the proportions of the of the original JUKE, but also carries over some of its characteristic features.
 

The short hood is clearly visible, as is the design of the headlights and even part of the new light signature seen in the official previews of the new Nissan models. The grille design is a smooth surface that forms part of a large front bumper, with the actual grille exposed in the skirt. The alloy wheels are new, but with a design very similar to those of the recently launched LEAF.

 

The new JUKE is recognizable by the shape of the front door, and more specifically, by the design of the windows. The more sloping windscreen pillars, together with a floating roof, are another characteristic feature of the JUKE, as are the rear windows. The door handles are again mounted near the glass. Even at the rear, the new design respects the sportier style with a more sloping tailgate, and this time with taillights that are joined by a transverse light bar. A quick glance inside clearly reveals a high-tech dashboard, with a large digital screen occupying the center console.

Insiders also indicated that the new JUKE will be an all-electric vehicle and is expected to have an electric motor with two maximum power levels: 120 hp and 150 hp and maximum ranges of 180 to 248 miles, depending on the trim level. The JUKE will be unveiled sometime in early 2026, with insiders suspecting a reveal a the Brussels Motor Show in January.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

ICON Vehicle Dynamics

High-Performance 3.0 VS CDEV Suspension for Gen 3 Ford F-150 Raptor

 

ICON Vehicle Dynamics has released its new 3.0 Series high-performance coilovers and shocks with CDEV Technology for the 3rd generation Ford F-150 Raptor. The system includes 3.0 shocks and coilovers with remote reservoirs, plus ICON's exclusive Compression Damping Electronic Valves (CDEV) technology, which provides the user with electronically controlled damping that adjusts on-the-fly to optimize performance, the manufacturer says.

Iconvehicledynamics.com

 

FiTech Fuel Injection

LS Drive-By-Wire EFI Systems

 

FiTech Fuel Injection has launched its new Ultimate LS Drive-By-Wire EFI System, engineered to deliver smoother acceleration, sharper response and modern electronic throttle control for LS-powered builds, the manufacturer says. Built around a 102-mm throttle body with advanced electronic throttle control, the system includes preset drive modes that optimize pedal feel and response for multiple applications. Each kit includes FiTech ECU, engine harness, sensors, high-flow throttle body and drive-by-wire controller.

FiTechefi.com

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Releasing a new product? Contact editors@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

 

Burnout Brands Acquires Brian Tooley Racing

 

Burnout Brands, a portfolio company of performance automotive aftermarket brands, has acquired Brian Tooley Racing, the Kentucky-based manufacturer of high-performance camshafts, valvetrain components and intake manifold engineering.

With the acquisition, Brian Tooley Racing joins a portfolio that also includes Monster Transmission, BD Diesel and D&J Precision Machine.

"The acquisition of Brian Tooley Racing from its employees marks an extraordinary moment for Burnout Brands," said Christian Roth, CEO of Burnout Brands. "BTR's relentless pursuit of innovation, deep technical expertise and strong enthusiast following perfectly align with our mission. This partnership strengthens our position as a leader in the aftermarket industry and opens the door to new opportunities across product development, manufacturing, and customer engagement."

"Joining Burnout Brands represents an exciting next step for BTR," said Brian Tooley, founder of Brian Tooley Racing. "Our passion has always been to deliver best-in-class components to the performance community. With Burnout's resources, vision and commitment to its employees and culture, we look forward to expanding our capabilities and continuing to serve our customers and employees with the same dedication that brought us here."

For more information, visit briantooleyracing.com.

 

Speedtech Performance Launches New Website

 

Speedtech Performance, the QA1-owned track and restomod chassis builder based in St. George, Utah, has launched its all-new website.

This redesigned site delivers a modern interface, cleaner navigation and more intuitive paths to Speedtech's complete lineup of chassis and suspension systems, company representatives said. Whether customers are tackling a restomod cruiser or a full competition build, the new digital experience helps them quickly understand their options and dream big.

"Our customers build some of the most capable and award-winning vehicles in the industry," said Speedtech Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ryan Gebhardt. "With this new site, we wanted to give them a smarter, more streamlined way to explore our chassis, understand the performance differences and start visualizing what's possible for their build."

The launch of the new website follows Speedtech's recent integration into QA1 Brands' expanded manufacturing footprint, including integrating chassis production into ISO-certified facilities in Lakeville, Minnesota. This investment has already accelerated lead times, increased production capacity, and enhanced quality standards across Speedtech's chassis lineup.

"We've made significant investments in our manufacturing operations this year," Gebhardt added. "Pairing that with a stronger digital experience allows us to support builders from the very first click all the way through final assembly."

The new Speedtech Performance website is live now at www.speedtechperformance.com.

By SEMA News Editors

 

SEMA Cares is accepting applications for its Annual Contribution Program, helping fund initiatives that benefit the automotive aftermarket industry. 

Each year, SEMA receives requests from a variety of organizations seeking contributions to support their activities. Through the Annual Contribution Program, applicants can raise awareness of their mission, highlight key projects or issues and strengthen their relationship with SEMA and the broader aftermarket community. 
 

 

SEMA will allocate funds for the 2026 cycle following a review of all applications. Applications are due by Friday, January 16, 2026, at this link. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA's senior vice president of government and public affairs, and Tony D'Antonio, the CEO of D'Antonio Automotive in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and host of Lost Classics on Last Chance Garage, recently met with the members of the U.S. House of Representatives' Blue Dog Caucus.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss one of the most pressing issues facing the aftermarket: calibrating advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to reflect the modified state of a car, truck or SUV after its ride height and/or profile has been modified. Bailey-Chapman and D'Antonio discussed why this issue is important and the necessity for Congress to enact legislation that enables aftermarket businesses to properly calibrate ADAS, which is crucial for modifying newer vehicles. Blue Dog members were also eager to discuss policy solutions to encourage more young men and women to enter the trades by addressing the barriers that many young automotive entrepreneurs face when seeking the necessary financing to start their own businesses.  
 

 

In its advocacy on behalf of the industry, SEMA's government affairs team continually finds new and creative ways to represent its members, the industry as a whole and the interests of automotive enthusiasts. Accordingly, SEMA was honored that the House Blue Dog Caucus, which comprises ten fiscally responsible and pragmatic House Democratic members, invited us to speak to their members.  

• The Blue Dogs proudly note that the positions they take as a caucus are common sense and consistent with the mainstream values of the American public and are dedicated to transcending party lines to get things done for the American people, such as ensuring a strong national defense for our country and pursuing fiscally responsible policies. 

"Thanks to Blue Dog Chair Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) for inviting Tony and me to speak to the Caucus," said Bailey-Chapman. "It was an honor to speak to their members about the issues that matter to the automotive aftermarket. I enjoyed the thoughtful dialogue with the Blue Dog Caucus and look forward to continuing to work with their members to stand up for the interests of our industry."  

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, Chair of the House Blue Dog Caucus (center), speaks with Alex Taylor (left) and Emily Reeves (right) during the 2024 SEMA and PRI Washington Rally.

 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA's senior vice president of government and public affairs, and Tony D'Antonio, the CEO of D'Antonio Automotive in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and host of Lost Classics on Last Chance Garage, recently met with the members of the U.S. House of Representatives' Blue Dog Caucus.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss one of the most pressing issues facing the aftermarket: calibrating advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to reflect the modified state of a car, truck or SUV after its ride height and/or profile has been modified. Bailey-Chapman and D'Antonio discussed why this issue is important and the necessity for Congress to enact legislation that enables aftermarket businesses to properly calibrate ADAS, which is crucial for modifying newer vehicles. Blue Dog members were also eager to discuss policy solutions to encourage more young men and women to enter the trades by addressing the barriers that many young automotive entrepreneurs face when seeking the necessary financing to start their own businesses.  
 

 

In its advocacy on behalf of the industry, SEMA's government affairs team continually finds new and creative ways to represent its members, the industry as a whole and the interests of automotive enthusiasts. Accordingly, SEMA was honored that the House Blue Dog Caucus, which comprises ten fiscally responsible and pragmatic House Democratic members, invited us to speak to their members.  

• The Blue Dogs proudly note that the positions they take as a caucus are common sense and consistent with the mainstream values of the American public and are dedicated to transcending party lines to get things done for the American people, such as ensuring a strong national defense for our country and pursuing fiscally responsible policies. 

"Thanks to Blue Dog Chair Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA) for inviting Tony and me to speak to the Caucus," said Bailey-Chapman. "It was an honor to speak to their members about the issues that matter to the automotive aftermarket. I enjoyed the thoughtful dialogue with the Blue Dog Caucus and look forward to continuing to work with their members to stand up for the interests of our industry."  

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, Chair of the House Blue Dog Caucus (center), speaks with Alex Taylor (left) and Emily Reeves (right) during the 2024 SEMA and PRI Washington Rally.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

The racing and performance industry is gathering THIS WEEK at the 2025 PRI Show, December 11-13, in downtown Indianapolis for three days of connection, innovation, development and planning for the race season ahead. Get a sneak peek of the Show below with previews of new parts and products, planned activations, celebrity appearances, Show-week events, educational opportunities and a lot more. 

 

PRI Paddock Takes Center Stage at the 2025 PRI Show

 

PRI has announced a major enhancement to the 2025 PRI Show with the debut of the PRI Paddock, a new activation at the grand entrance of the Indiana Convention Center. A centerpiece of the experience is the Show's iconic hanging car, this year represented by the Matco Tools Top Fuel dragster driven by four-time NHRA Top Fuel Champion Antron Brown, continuing a long-standing PRI tradition. 

The Paddock includes a live stage featuring exclusive live interviews, and standout vehicles representing the breadth of racing disciplines at the Show, including a BMW M4 GT3 EVO from SRO GT World Challenge America powered by AWS, a Honda Civic from SCCA Time Attack, a TRAD PRO4 custom off-road truck from Amsoil Champ Off Road, a Schnee-Lawson Sprint Car from the High Limit Racing Series and a Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano from Formula Drift. It reflects PRI's commitment to supporting the entire racing community from grassroots competitors to professional teams and manufacturers while connecting attendees with the industry leaders and innovators shaping motorsports. 

Throughout all three days of the PRI Show, the PRI Paddock stage will host driver appearances, industry conversations, expert interviews and opportunities for fans to interact with some of the most influential voices in motorsports. Attendees may also see a surprise visit from a favorite racing driver or team owner. 

Click here for more information, including a full schedule of appearances on the PRI Paddock stage.

 

T.O.P.S. HQ Presented by MyRacePass.com Empowers Track Professionals

 

Motorsports track operators, promoters and sanctioning body leadership and staff will have a dedicated headquarters to conduct business, learn from industry leaders, and grow their professional networks at the 2025 PRI Show.  

 

Happening in rooms 240–245 of the Indiana Convention Center, T.O.P.S. HQ Presented by MyRacePass.com will offer over 42 sessions and learning opportunities designed to help race track professionals strengthen their business. Beyond the educational sessions, the relaxed setting provides the ideal place to engage in peer-to-peer discussions, schedule meetings, take a break, and connect with peers. T.O.P.S. HQ Presented by MyRacePass.com is also supported by Gearhead Events and PJH Trackbite. 

Race tracks play a vital role in motorsports, serving as launchpads for young people to discover the sport, for competitors to sharpen their skills, and for local economies to thrive. According to the 2024 PRI State of the Racing Market Report, 50%​ of race tracks earn more than half of their revenue ​from races, underscoring the importance of staying competitive and adapting to industry shifts. 

Featured Presentations and Events  
 

• Morning Coffee by Gearhead Coffee (Dec. 11-13, Room 242).  
• Industry Leadership Forum (Dec. 11 at 3 pm): A panel of leaders will discuss strategies for attracting the next generation to the sport.  
• Successful Auto Racing Promotion (Dec. 12 at 3 pm): A panel of master promoters will share lessons learned.  
• Friday Continental Breakfast (Dec. 12 at 8:30 am): Enjoy breakfast compliments of Geobrugg, DZE USA LLC, Tecpro Barriers, TrackWalk, and the FOD Control Corp.  
• B.S. & Brews Happy Hour (Dec. 12 at 4:30 pm): Join fellow track operators and peers for beer, snacks, and "big stories." The event is sponsored by MyRacePass.com, RPM Promoters Workshop – Racing Promotion Monthly, Professional Motorsports Solutions, TicketSpice, and PJH Trackbite.  

 

Education Topics  
 

• Legislative Updates: Learn how to master your political universe using the PRI Economic Report and paths to incubating the Nuisance Law.  
• Marketing, Social Media, and Promotion: Explore updates in technology for ticketing, scoring and event management; content engagement; AI best practices; and digital marketing.  
• Racing Roundtables: Hear from industry experts in road racing, karting, oval paved, off-road, dirt track, and dirt late model facilities.  
• Track Operation Breakouts: Hear from announcers and race officials, plus attend sessions on enhancing the fan experience and better understanding race insurance. 
• Trends and Tactics in Motorsports Safety by ICMS: Join sessions covering EV racing, what's new in safety, NFPA 610, and finding and keeping safety crews.  

For more information, including a full schedule of T.O.P.S. HQ events and education sessions, click here.

 

2025 PRI Show Brings Multiple Sim Racing Events and Competitions to Indianapolis

 

The 2025 PRI Show features a showcase of sim racing, esports innovation and hands-on motorsports experiences with multiple activations at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Leading organizations, including DALLARA-AK ESPORTS, Podium 1, SIMCraft, SRO America and Team America/Init Esports, will bring professional-grade simulators, competitive events and educational programming to attendees during the Show.

SRO America Expands the SIM Racing Arena

SRO America returns to the 2025 PRI Show with an expanded SIM Racing Arena, putting the spotlight on the fast-growing world of sim racing and motorsports innovation. The event features daily invitational races with top esports competitors competing on professional-grade rigs, including Fanatec Clubsport GT cockpits, DD-Plus Direct Drive bases, Clubsport pedals and MSI 49-inch monitors powered by high-performance MSI gaming PCs. These setups provide the precision, realism and performance used by professional drivers worldwide.

All competitions will stream live on SRO Motorsports Twitch and GTWorld YouTube, giving fans across the globe front-row access to the action. Beyond racing, the arena offers interactive demos, hands-on experiences with cutting-edge sim hardware, educational sessions and panel discussions with industry experts, highlighting the latest advancements in sim technology and its growing influence on the motorsports industry.   

Podium 1 Showcases Turnkey Systems, New Products and Pro Driver Activations

Podium 1 brings a full lineup of professional-grade sim technology to the PRI Show, giving attendees the chance to test industry-leading 6DOF, 4DOF and 3DOF motion systems featuring Qubic Motion Systems and Vero Motion platforms. The activation includes multiple new product unveilings, including the Simucube SC3 Pro, Simucube Co-Pedals, BDH Active Shifter, VPG Porsche Wheel and more.

Special guest Tony Kanaan joins the Podium 1 lineup alongside the Arrow McLaren NTT INDYCAR SERIES team, offering attendees opportunities to meet the racing legend and compete against his lap times for chances to win official McLaren items. Autograph sessions with Kanaan are scheduled for Thursday from 11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. and 2:00-2:30 p.m., and Friday from 10:00-10:30 a.m. A McLaren Arrow IndyCar and a Radical SR3XXR will also be on display for photo opportunities.

Team America Debuts the Nation's Best at PRI Show -- Powered by Init Esports

Team America, powered by Init Esports, is bringing the nation's top sim-racing competitors to the PRI Show for an in-person showdown. The top 12 athletes from the 2025 TEAM AMERICA Talent Scouts Competition powered by MOZA Racing have earned their place in the national finale at the PRI Show. On Saturday afternoon they will go head-to-head in the TEAM AMERICA Time Trial Challenge racing live on MOZA Racing equipment in front of manufacturers, media and motorsport leaders. PRI attendees can also compete by setting hot laps at the Team America booth on Thursday and Friday for a chance to earn one of the final spots on the Saturday grid.

"Team America is all about taking our incredible online community and putting it side-by-side in real life, and there's no better place to do that than at PRI," said Stefy Bau, founder of Init Esports.

DALLARA-AK ESPORTS Gets Attendees Behind the Wheel

DALLARA and AK Informatica launched DALLARA-AK ESPORTS earlier this year, a joint venture aimed at establishing Indianapolis as a global hub for sim racing. At the PRI Show, attendees can compete on Assetto Corsa Competizione simulators, racing GT cars on historic tracks. The activation gives fans a chance to experience the precision and excitement of professional-grade sim racing while engaging with one of motorsports' most innovative partnerships.

For more information, click here.

 

PRI Show Spotlight: Vivian Campbell of Def Leppard Fame to Display Rally Vehicle

 

Photo courtesy of Chris Allen/Chris Creation Machine.

 

Vivian Campbell of Def Leppard will bring his "miRAGE" Mitsubishi Mirage R4, which competes in the American Rally Association, to the PRI Show. He will also appear in the PRI Paddock for a live interview on Saturday, December 13.

If a correlation can be made between playing the guitar at the highest level in a world-renowned rock band and driving a rally car then Vivian Campbell has found a way to work it out. Both require absolute commitment to perform on each stage, plus finesse and skills beyond normal comprehension that can deliver euphoria.  

Veteran rock guitarist Campbell has excelled at his melodious craft in one of the world's most famous bands for more than 30 years. He also played in Dio on the band's first three albums, was a member of Whitesnake during the band's big-hair heyday in the latter '80s and was an original member of Northern Ireland's Sweet Savage. 

While Campbell has earned his reputation as an exceptional guitarist and made a career by playing music, that wasn't enough. Now, he is fulfilling his childhood dreams of racing lore and feeding that passion as an adult in rally racing. Campbell competes in the American Rally Association (ARA) and will bring his rally car to the 2025 PRI Show, where you can see it on display in the Green Lobby of the Indiana Convention Center (ICC) in Aisle 7100 in between Hammertown and the PAC Lounge. You can't miss it. It will be covered with Def Leppard logos and the logos from other bands he's played in over the years. 

In addition, he will be interviewed live at the PRI Paddock, located in the Yellow Hall at the Capitol Avenue entrance of the ICC, on Saturday, December 13, at 10:30 a.m. ET.

To read the full interview with Campbell, click here.

 

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Registration for 2025 PRI Show

The PRI Show draws attendees from all 50 states and around the world, including race teams, retailers, engine builders, fabricators, media and others. To register, book hotel accommodations and learn more about the 2025 PRI Show, visit PRI2025.com/Attend.

The following is a message to SEMA Members from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola about the 2026 Board of Directors nominations, which are now open to SEMA members online here:

Dear SEMA Member,

As a valued member of the association, we invite your recommendations for industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors.

Please take a moment to submit the name of an individual you believe would be an excellent candidate by completing and submitting a Nomination Form.
 

A strong board ensures strong leadership and an association that effectively serves its members. We encourage your participation in the nomination process--our industry has many exceptional professionals who would be a tremendous asset to the board, and your recommendations help bring these individuals to the attention of the nominating committee.
 

Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors are due by January 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. PST.
 

Thank you for your engagement and continued support of the association.

Sincerely,

Mike Spagnola

SEMA President and CEO

This article was originally published on Tuesday, December 2.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

President Trump has announced plans to significantly roll back federal fuel-economy standards to levels established prior to the Biden Administration.  
 

Using the federal rulemaking process, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) proposes relaxing federal fuel-economy standards for model-year (MY) '22-'31 light-duty vehicles to 34.5 miles per gallon (mpg), down from the 50.4 miles per gallon threshold set by the Biden Administration. Under the proposed rule, the unwinding would be complete by 2031; additionally, crossovers and small SUVs would be reclassified as passenger vehicles, rather than as light trucks.
 

• Click here to read the White House's fact sheet on the Reset of Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards.

 

SEMA supports the proposed standards, which help automakers to produce vehicles that the marketplace demands. While aftermarket businesses are not subject to CAFE standards, this proposal is expected to provide automakers with the flexibility they need to produce the types of vehicles that are embraced by automotive enthusiasts and are often modified.

This policy shift follows the adoption of the "One, Big Beautiful Bill" in July, which eliminated penalties assessed to automakers that failed to meet fuel-economy targets. This represented a significant change in federal law and reflects a broader move by President Trump and congressional Republicans to provide automakers with greater flexibility to produce and sell vehicles based on consumer demands. It is also a significant move away from previous federal policies that pushed OEMs and consumers to favor electric vehicles over those with internal combustion engines.

SEMA will review the proposed CAFE regulation and provide official comments to DOT on the proposal (the comment deadline will be in mid-January).

 

This story was originally published on December 4, 2025.

 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock