Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.

Visit YEN's website

Applications Now Being Accepted for 2016 SEMA Launch Pad Competition

By Katie Carson

Applications are being accepted for the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad, presented by YEN. The competition, now entering its fourth year, gives automotive innovators, inventors and entrepreneurs under the age of 40 an industry platform to raise awareness for their brand, access to critical industry decision makers and the opportunity to earn prizes designed to grow their businesses. Apply now! 

14 semi-finalists receive:

• A one-year complimentary SEMA membership (up to a value of $2,000).  
• Complimentary registration to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit (June 21–22), along with hotel, meals and a $500 voucher for travel expenses.
• Increased awareness via thousands of unique views of their business by competing in the official SEMA Facebook voting competition.
• Inclusion in official SEMA Launch Pad feature promotions.

10 finalists receive:

• Complimentary 5x5-ft. kiosk-style booth at the 2016 SEMA Show.
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show.  
• Two tickets to the 2016 SEMA Banquet (up to a value of $1,000).
• A one-hour mentoring session with an industry icon.
• Increased awareness of their business via participating in the live Launch Pad event at the 2016 SEMA Show.

Winner receives:

• SEMA News: One full-page, four-color ad.
• SEMA YEN Member News: Feature in one article.
• SEMA Show: One 10x10-ft. booth with premium space positioning at the 2017 SEMA Show and a basic booth package (two 3-ft. side walls and an 8-ft. back wall, plus a 7x44-in. sign).
• SEMA Garage: One full day of photography studio usage and up to three hours of free custom scanning services.
• SEMA Data Co-op: 50% off supplier monthly membership fees for your first year (up to a $3,600 value).
• SEMA Education: One video feature in SEMA’s “Biz Tips” video series. 
• SEMA Manufacturers’ Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting.

Applications are being accepted through May 6. You do not need to be a SEMA member or YEN member to submit an application. Take your business to the next level—apply now!

For more information on the competition and the grand prize, visit the SEMA Launch Pad website. For more information on YEN, contact SEMA’s Director of Networks Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691 or bryanh@sema.org.

YEN participants will represent different niches in the specialty-equipment market as they interact with tour attendees and students on the seven different stops along the seven-city, seven-day journey to share about their careers with the next generation of industry talent.

YEN Power Tour Applications Now Open!

The Young Executives Network (YEN) is now accepting applications for 10 young automotive professionals to earn the opportunity to participate in the Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour. Participants in the YEN Power Tour will receive:

• Hotel Accommodations
• $500 grant for passengers, $1,750 grant for drivers
• VIP Entry into the Power Tour
• Ticket to Opening Night Hospitality Party
• Premier Parking Location – YEN Corral
• Long Hauler Gifts
• SEMA Swag

YEN participants will represent different niches in the specialty-equipment market as they interact with tour attendees and students on the seven different stops along the seven-city, seven-day journey to share about their careers with the next generation of industry talent.

“The YEN Power Tour is about more than hitting the road in your musclecar or hot rod; it's about forging relationships and making connections,” said SEMA Board member Dan Kahn. “There are literally thousands of job opportunities in the automotive aftermarket for young people across the nation—we want to tell that story and show that in our high-performance family, young people aren't afraid to get their hands dirty."

Learn more and apply today to join the YEN Power Tour. The application period is February 29–April 8. All YEN members are eligible to apply. Not yet a member? Join today.

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Visit HRIA's website

HRIA is hosting a General Membership Meeting at the Charlotte Auto Fair in Charlotte, North Carolina, where an expected 150,000 automotive enthusiasts will gather to buy and sell unique vehicles and restoration parts.

HRIA General Membership Meeting

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) is hosting a General Membership Meeting at the Charlotte Auto Fair in Concord, North Carolina, where an expected 150,000 automotive enthusiasts gather to buy and sell unique vehicles and restoration parts. The meeting kicks off Thursday, April 7, at 9:00 a.m. HRIA members and aspiring members will discuss relevant topics specific to the hot-rod industry, mingle with council leadership and learn about the 2016 initiatives. A complimentary lunch will be served to those who attend the meeting, which will be held in the Media Center Auditorium located in the Charlotte Motor Speedway Infield.

Discussion topics will include:

• What is the biggest challenge for your company today?
• What is the biggest opportunity for your company today?
• How can HRIA/SEMA help?

RSVP by Monday, March 28, and receive one full event credential for Charlotte Auto Fair, one special parking pass to get closer to the Media Center Auditorium and a detailed map.

For questions, contact Jim Skelly, SEMA Council Director at 909-978-6690 or jimsk@sema.org.

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Visit MRN's website.

New Matching Program Connects Reps and Manufacturers

As a manufacturers' rep, are you looking for new lines to carry? The Manufacturers' Rep Network (MRN) may have the solution for you. The network has announced a new benefit for SEMA manufacturer members and MRN members, entitled the Manufacturers' Representative Matching Program. The intention is to create an easier approach to connect reps to manufacturers. Through this program, MRN members can enroll to receive notifications of manufacturers seeking representation.

One person per agency can opt in to receive immediate notification of manufacturers seeking representation. Each notification sent will include the basic information to evaluate the opportunity and the contact information to follow up directly with the manufacturer. This program will boost reps’ networks for new sales opportunities and give them a chance to showcase their agencies. On the flip side, the program will save manufacturers the headache of traditional avenues of searching for representation. With the Rep Matching Program, reps will come to you.

SEMA MRN members seeking to opt in to receive notification of manufacturers seeking representation.

SEMA manufacturer members seeking product and/or service representation.

Questions? Please contact SEMA's Director of Networks, Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691 or bryanh@sema.org.

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Visit PRO's website.

New Videos on NIADA.TV Addressing Dealership Success Through Accessory Programs

Collaboration between the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) and the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) continues with the release of additional videos on NIADA.TV’s Aftermarket/SEMA channel. These latest videos showcase some of the most experienced restylers, manufactures and service providers in the PRO community sharing their perspectives on what dealerships should consider if they want to start and run a successful accessories program.

The newest batch of videos focus on the following questions:

• Why would a dealership want to get into aftermarket accessories?
• What are the first steps a dealership should take when starting an accessories program?
• What are some categories of entry-level accessories that a dealership can use to start their program?

Future videos will discuss how a dealership can find the right partner to help build their accessories program and dispel some common misconceptions about aftermarket accessories.

These videos are a great resource for direct use by dealership principals and sales directors looking for areas of growth for their business. They are also a valuable tool that restylers can use when calling on local dealerships to answer some of the common questions many dealerships have about the accessories industry in general and how expanding their business in this way can create a new revenue source.

To view these and other aftermarket-focused videos, visit www.niada.tv and click on the Aftermarket/SEMA Channel tab.

For questions regarding PRO, please contact Clayton Drescher, senior council manager, at 909-978-6696 or claytond@sema.org.

Back to Top

Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.

Visit YEN's website

Applications Now Being Accepted for 2016 SEMA Launch Pad Competition

By Katie Carson

Applications are being accepted for the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad, presented by YEN. The competition, now entering its fourth year, gives automotive innovators, inventors and entrepreneurs under the age of 40 an industry platform to raise awareness for their brand, access to critical industry decision makers and the opportunity to earn prizes designed to grow their businesses. Apply now! 

14 semi-finalists receive:

• A one-year complimentary SEMA membership (up to a value of $2,000).  
• Complimentary registration to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit (June 21–22), along with hotel, meals and a $500 voucher for travel expenses.
• Increased awareness via thousands of unique views of their business by competing in the official SEMA Facebook voting competition.
• Inclusion in official SEMA Launch Pad feature promotions.

10 finalists receive:

• Complimentary 5x5-ft. kiosk-style booth at the 2016 SEMA Show.
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show.  
• Two tickets to the 2016 SEMA Banquet (up to a value of $1,000).
• A one-hour mentoring session with an industry icon.
• Increased awareness of their business via participating in the live Launch Pad event at the 2016 SEMA Show.

Winner receives:

• SEMA News: One full-page, four-color ad.
• SEMA YEN Member News: Feature in one article.
• SEMA Show: One 10x10-ft. booth with premium space positioning at the 2017 SEMA Show and a basic booth package (two 3-ft. side walls and an 8-ft. back wall, plus a 7x44-in. sign).
• SEMA Garage: One full day of photography studio usage and up to three hours of free custom scanning services.
• SEMA Data Co-op: 50% off supplier monthly membership fees for your first year (up to a $3,600 value).
• SEMA Education: One video feature in SEMA’s “Biz Tips” video series. 
• SEMA Manufacturers’ Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting.

Applications are being accepted through May 6. You do not need to be a SEMA member or YEN member to submit an application. Take your business to the next level—apply now!

For more information on the competition and the grand prize, visit the SEMA Launch Pad website. For more information on YEN, contact SEMA’s Director of Networks Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691 or bryanh@sema.org.

YEN participants will represent different niches in the specialty-equipment market as they interact with tour attendees and students on the seven different stops along the seven-city, seven-day journey to share about their careers with the next generation of industry talent.

YEN Power Tour Applications Now Open!

The Young Executives Network (YEN) is now accepting applications for 10 young automotive professionals to earn the opportunity to participate in the Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour. Participants in the YEN Power Tour will receive:

• Hotel Accommodations
• $500 grant for passengers, $1,750 grant for drivers
• VIP Entry into the Power Tour
• Ticket to Opening Night Hospitality Party
• Premier Parking Location – YEN Corral
• Long Hauler Gifts
• SEMA Swag

YEN participants will represent different niches in the specialty-equipment market as they interact with tour attendees and students on the seven different stops along the seven-city, seven-day journey to share about their careers with the next generation of industry talent.

“The YEN Power Tour is about more than hitting the road in your musclecar or hot rod; it's about forging relationships and making connections,” said SEMA Board member Dan Kahn. “There are literally thousands of job opportunities in the automotive aftermarket for young people across the nation—we want to tell that story and show that in our high-performance family, young people aren't afraid to get their hands dirty."

Learn more and apply today to join the YEN Power Tour. The application period is February 29–April 8. All YEN members are eligible to apply. Not yet a member? Join today.

Back to Top

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA is hosting a General Membership Meeting at the Charlotte Auto Fair in Charlotte, North Carolina, where an expected 150,000 automotive enthusiasts will gather to buy and sell unique vehicles and restoration parts.

HRIA General Membership Meeting

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) is hosting a General Membership Meeting at the Charlotte Auto Fair in Concord, North Carolina, where an expected 150,000 automotive enthusiasts gather to buy and sell unique vehicles and restoration parts. The meeting kicks off Thursday, April 7, at 9:00 a.m. HRIA members and aspiring members will discuss relevant topics specific to the hot-rod industry, mingle with council leadership and learn about the 2016 initiatives. A complimentary lunch will be served to those who attend the meeting, which will be held in the Media Center Auditorium located in the Charlotte Motor Speedway Infield.

Discussion topics will include:

• What is the biggest challenge for your company today?
• What is the biggest opportunity for your company today?
• How can HRIA/SEMA help?

RSVP by Monday, March 28, and receive one full event credential for Charlotte Auto Fair, one special parking pass to get closer to the Media Center Auditorium and a detailed map.

For questions, contact Jim Skelly, SEMA Council Director at 909-978-6690 or jimsk@sema.org.

Back to Top

Visit MRN's website.

New Matching Program Connects Reps and Manufacturers

As a manufacturers' rep, are you looking for new lines to carry? The Manufacturers' Rep Network (MRN) may have the solution for you. The network has announced a new benefit for SEMA manufacturer members and MRN members, entitled the Manufacturers' Representative Matching Program. The intention is to create an easier approach to connect reps to manufacturers. Through this program, MRN members can enroll to receive notifications of manufacturers seeking representation.

One person per agency can opt in to receive immediate notification of manufacturers seeking representation. Each notification sent will include the basic information to evaluate the opportunity and the contact information to follow up directly with the manufacturer. This program will boost reps’ networks for new sales opportunities and give them a chance to showcase their agencies. On the flip side, the program will save manufacturers the headache of traditional avenues of searching for representation. With the Rep Matching Program, reps will come to you.

SEMA MRN members seeking to opt in to receive notification of manufacturers seeking representation.

SEMA manufacturer members seeking product and/or service representation.

Questions? Please contact SEMA's Director of Networks, Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691 or bryanh@sema.org.

Back to Top 

Visit PRO's website.

New Videos on NIADA.TV Addressing Dealership Success Through Accessory Programs

Collaboration between the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) and the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) continues with the release of additional videos on NIADA.TV’s Aftermarket/SEMA channel. These latest videos showcase some of the most experienced restylers, manufactures and service providers in the PRO community sharing their perspectives on what dealerships should consider if they want to start and run a successful accessories program.

The newest batch of videos focus on the following questions:

• Why would a dealership want to get into aftermarket accessories?
• What are the first steps a dealership should take when starting an accessories program?
• What are some categories of entry-level accessories that a dealership can use to start their program?

Future videos will discuss how a dealership can find the right partner to help build their accessories program and dispel some common misconceptions about aftermarket accessories.

These videos are a great resource for direct use by dealership principals and sales directors looking for areas of growth for their business. They are also a valuable tool that restylers can use when calling on local dealerships to answer some of the common questions many dealerships have about the accessories industry in general and how expanding their business in this way can create a new revenue source.

To view these and other aftermarket-focused videos, visit www.niada.tv and click on the Aftermarket/SEMA Channel tab.

For questions regarding PRO, please contact Clayton Drescher, senior council manager, at 909-978-6696 or claytond@sema.org.

Back to Top

Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.

Visit YEN's website

Applications Now Being Accepted for 2016 SEMA Launch Pad Competition

By Katie Carson

Applications are being accepted for the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad, presented by YEN. The competition, now entering its fourth year, gives automotive innovators, inventors and entrepreneurs under the age of 40 an industry platform to raise awareness for their brand, access to critical industry decision makers and the opportunity to earn prizes designed to grow their businesses. Apply now! 

14 semi-finalists receive:

• A one-year complimentary SEMA membership (up to a value of $2,000).  
• Complimentary registration to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit (June 21–22), along with hotel, meals and a $500 voucher for travel expenses.
• Increased awareness via thousands of unique views of their business by competing in the official SEMA Facebook voting competition.
• Inclusion in official SEMA Launch Pad feature promotions.

10 finalists receive:

• Complimentary 5x5-ft. kiosk-style booth at the 2016 SEMA Show.
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show.  
• Two tickets to the 2016 SEMA Banquet (up to a value of $1,000).
• A one-hour mentoring session with an industry icon.
• Increased awareness of their business via participating in the live Launch Pad event at the 2016 SEMA Show.

Winner receives:

• SEMA News: One full-page, four-color ad.
• SEMA YEN Member News: Feature in one article.
• SEMA Show: One 10x10-ft. booth with premium space positioning at the 2017 SEMA Show and a basic booth package (two 3-ft. side walls and an 8-ft. back wall, plus a 7x44-in. sign).
• SEMA Garage: One full day of photography studio usage and up to three hours of free custom scanning services.
• SEMA Data Co-op: 50% off supplier monthly membership fees for your first year (up to a $3,600 value).
• SEMA Education: One video feature in SEMA’s “Biz Tips” video series. 
• SEMA Manufacturers’ Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting.

Applications are being accepted through May 6. You do not need to be a SEMA member or YEN member to submit an application. Take your business to the next level—apply now!

For more information on the competition and the grand prize, visit the SEMA Launch Pad website. For more information on YEN, contact SEMA’s Director of Networks Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691 or bryanh@sema.org.

YEN participants will represent different niches in the specialty-equipment market as they interact with tour attendees and students on the seven different stops along the seven-city, seven-day journey to share about their careers with the next generation of industry talent.

YEN Power Tour Applications Now Open!

The Young Executives Network (YEN) is now accepting applications for 10 young automotive professionals to earn the opportunity to participate in the Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour. Participants in the YEN Power Tour will receive:

• Hotel Accommodations
• $500 grant for passengers, $1,750 grant for drivers
• VIP Entry into the Power Tour
• Ticket to Opening Night Hospitality Party
• Premier Parking Location – YEN Corral
• Long Hauler Gifts
• SEMA Swag

YEN participants will represent different niches in the specialty-equipment market as they interact with tour attendees and students on the seven different stops along the seven-city, seven-day journey to share about their careers with the next generation of industry talent.

“The YEN Power Tour is about more than hitting the road in your musclecar or hot rod; it's about forging relationships and making connections,” said SEMA Board member Dan Kahn. “There are literally thousands of job opportunities in the automotive aftermarket for young people across the nation—we want to tell that story and show that in our high-performance family, young people aren't afraid to get their hands dirty."

Learn more and apply today to join the YEN Power Tour. The application period is February 29–April 8. All YEN members are eligible to apply. Not yet a member? Join today.

Back to Top

Visit HRIA's website

HRIA is hosting a General Membership Meeting at the Charlotte Auto Fair in Charlotte, North Carolina, where an expected 150,000 automotive enthusiasts will gather to buy and sell unique vehicles and restoration parts.

HRIA General Membership Meeting

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) is hosting a General Membership Meeting at the Charlotte Auto Fair in Concord, North Carolina, where an expected 150,000 automotive enthusiasts gather to buy and sell unique vehicles and restoration parts. The meeting kicks off Thursday, April 7, at 9:00 a.m. HRIA members and aspiring members will discuss relevant topics specific to the hot-rod industry, mingle with council leadership and learn about the 2016 initiatives. A complimentary lunch will be served to those who attend the meeting, which will be held in the Media Center Auditorium located in the Charlotte Motor Speedway Infield.

Discussion topics will include:

• What is the biggest challenge for your company today?
• What is the biggest opportunity for your company today?
• How can HRIA/SEMA help?

RSVP by Monday, March 28, and receive one full event credential for Charlotte Auto Fair, one special parking pass to get closer to the Media Center Auditorium and a detailed map.

For questions, contact Jim Skelly, SEMA Council Director at 909-978-6690 or jimsk@sema.org.

Back to Top

Visit MRN's website.

New Matching Program Connects Reps and Manufacturers

As a manufacturers' rep, are you looking for new lines to carry? The Manufacturers' Rep Network (MRN) may have the solution for you. The network has announced a new benefit for SEMA manufacturer members and MRN members, entitled the Manufacturers' Representative Matching Program. The intention is to create an easier approach to connect reps to manufacturers. Through this program, MRN members can enroll to receive notifications of manufacturers seeking representation.

One person per agency can opt in to receive immediate notification of manufacturers seeking representation. Each notification sent will include the basic information to evaluate the opportunity and the contact information to follow up directly with the manufacturer. This program will boost reps’ networks for new sales opportunities and give them a chance to showcase their agencies. On the flip side, the program will save manufacturers the headache of traditional avenues of searching for representation. With the Rep Matching Program, reps will come to you.

SEMA MRN members seeking to opt in to receive notification of manufacturers seeking representation.

SEMA manufacturer members seeking product and/or service representation.

Questions? Please contact SEMA's Director of Networks, Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691 or bryanh@sema.org.

Back to Top 

Visit PRO's website.

New Videos on NIADA.TV Addressing Dealership Success Through Accessory Programs

Collaboration between the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) and the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) continues with the release of additional videos on NIADA.TV’s Aftermarket/SEMA channel. These latest videos showcase some of the most experienced restylers, manufactures and service providers in the PRO community sharing their perspectives on what dealerships should consider if they want to start and run a successful accessories program.

The newest batch of videos focus on the following questions:

• Why would a dealership want to get into aftermarket accessories?
• What are the first steps a dealership should take when starting an accessories program?
• What are some categories of entry-level accessories that a dealership can use to start their program?

Future videos will discuss how a dealership can find the right partner to help build their accessories program and dispel some common misconceptions about aftermarket accessories.

These videos are a great resource for direct use by dealership principals and sales directors looking for areas of growth for their business. They are also a valuable tool that restylers can use when calling on local dealerships to answer some of the common questions many dealerships have about the accessories industry in general and how expanding their business in this way can create a new revenue source.

To view these and other aftermarket-focused videos, visit www.niada.tv and click on the Aftermarket/SEMA Channel tab.

For questions regarding PRO, please contact Clayton Drescher, senior council manager, at 909-978-6696 or claytond@sema.org.

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By SEMA Editors

Following are dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows, measuring sessions and activities.

For association-related travel, contact Manya Petropaki (manya.p@travelstoreusa.com) at Travel Store USA, 949-930-9268.

By SEMA Editors

The current SEMA Board of Directors led by Chairman Doug Evans (front center).

The SEMA Board of Directors is a group of individuals who volunteer their time to provide leadership and guidance for the association. The members of the board provide a critical leadership role by serving the industry and all of the businesses within it.

Here are the candidates for this year’s election:

Manufacturers Category (two open seats)

• Chris Douglas – vice president of marketing, COMP Performance Group
• Dave Edmondson – senior vice president, Roadwire
• Kyle Fickler – director of business development, Aeromotive Inc.
• Rick Love – executive vice president, Vintage Air

Manufacturer’s Representative Category (one open seat)

• Les Rudd – president, Bob Cook Sales
• Rich Butler – CEO, R&R Marketing

SEMA’s Board consists of 10 directors, the chairman, the chairman-elect, immediate-past chairman and secretary/treasurer. While the number of seats on the Board are limited, the election provides all SEMA-member companies with the opportunity to influence the specialty-equipment industry’s future.

Voting will take place online May 11–24, and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company's primary contact. Details with ballots and links will be sent to the member company's designated primary contact between May 9–10.

Winners will be announced by May 27 and formally welcomed to the SEMA Board of Directors during the SEMA Installation Gala, July 29.

For more information about the 2016 SEMA Board of Directors election, contact Susan Alfonso at 909-978-6671 or susana@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

The current SEMA Board of Directors led by Chairman Doug Evans (front center).

The SEMA Board of Directors is a group of individuals who volunteer their time to provide leadership and guidance for the association. The members of the board provide a critical leadership role by serving the industry and all of the businesses within it.

Here are the candidates for this year’s election:

Manufacturers Category (two open seats)

• Chris Douglas – vice president of marketing, COMP Performance Group
• Dave Edmondson – senior vice president, Roadwire
• Kyle Fickler – director of business development, Aeromotive Inc.
• Rick Love – executive vice president, Vintage Air

Manufacturer’s Representative Category (one open seat)

• Les Rudd – president, Bob Cook Sales
• Rich Butler – CEO, R&R Marketing

SEMA’s Board consists of 10 directors, the chairman, the chairman-elect, immediate-past chairman and secretary/treasurer. While the number of seats on the Board are limited, the election provides all SEMA-member companies with the opportunity to influence the specialty-equipment industry’s future.

Voting will take place online May 11–24, and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company's primary contact. Details with ballots and links will be sent to the member company's designated primary contact between May 9–10.

Winners will be announced by May 27 and formally welcomed to the SEMA Board of Directors during the SEMA Installation Gala, July 29.

For more information about the 2016 SEMA Board of Directors election, contact Susan Alfonso at 909-978-6671 or susana@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

The current SEMA Board of Directors led by Chairman Doug Evans (front center).

The SEMA Board of Directors is a group of individuals who volunteer their time to provide leadership and guidance for the association. The members of the board provide a critical leadership role by serving the industry and all of the businesses within it.

Here are the candidates for this year’s election:

Manufacturers Category (two open seats)

• Chris Douglas – vice president of marketing, COMP Performance Group
• Dave Edmondson – senior vice president, Roadwire
• Kyle Fickler – director of business development, Aeromotive Inc.
• Rick Love – executive vice president, Vintage Air

Manufacturer’s Representative Category (one open seat)

• Les Rudd – president, Bob Cook Sales
• Rich Butler – CEO, R&R Marketing

SEMA’s Board consists of 10 directors, the chairman, the chairman-elect, immediate-past chairman and secretary/treasurer. While the number of seats on the Board are limited, the election provides all SEMA-member companies with the opportunity to influence the specialty-equipment industry’s future.

Voting will take place online May 11–24, and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company's primary contact. Details with ballots and links will be sent to the member company's designated primary contact between May 9–10.

Winners will be announced by May 27 and formally welcomed to the SEMA Board of Directors during the SEMA Installation Gala, July 29.

For more information about the 2016 SEMA Board of Directors election, contact Susan Alfonso at 909-978-6671 or susana@sema.org.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Neal L. Williams

Memorial Fund Established for Neal L. Williams

N.A. Williams Company, in conjunction with the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, has established the Neal L. Williams Memorial Fund to honor its former chairman who passed away one year ago at the age of 78. Donations made in Williams’ memory will be used to help educate the next generation of auto care industry professionals.

Neal L. Williams joined N.A. Williams Company in 1959—the firm founded by his father in 1934, after attending the University of Georgia and serving in the United States Army. During a long, successful career that spanned over 50 years, he led the company to become one of the top manufacturers’ representative firms in North America. Widely respected for his integrity, fairness and achievement, Williams was a renowned figure in the automotive aftermarket. He was presented with the Martin Fromm Lifetime Achievement award in 2009 and the Northwood University Outstanding Business Leader award in 2012. Active in both industry and civic causes, Williams served on the board of governors and manufacturers’ council of Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA). With this donation to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, N.A. Williams Company will become a lifetime trustee of the foundation.

To make a donation in memory of Neal L. Williams, send a check, made payable to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation/Neal L. Williams Memorial, 7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1300, Bethesda, MD 20814. For more information, contact Barbara Cunningham at 816-584-0511 or cunningham8095@yahoo.com.

Mishimoto Raises More Than $19,000 for the American Cancer Society

Through its Chilly Cares program, Mishimoto raised more than $19,000 to the American Cancer Society in 2015. For every product that's included in the Chilly Cares program, a portion of the sales are donated to the American Cancer Society!

Toyo Tires is the official tire sponsor of the Tough Mudder obstacle course challenge.

Toyo Tires Teams Up with Tough Mudder Again as Official Tire Sponsor

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp has added official tire of Tough Mudder to the brand’s résumé last year. This week, the company has extended the partnership with Tough Mudder and will continue to have Toyo Tires branding on the courses across America. Tough Mudder is a team-oriented 10–12-mile obstacle course challenge designed to test physical strength, stamina and mental grit. The events are untimed, and teamwork and camaraderie are considered above all else. Participants are encouraged to work together to overcome obstacles and push themselves to physical and mental boundaries. Tough Mudder participants face Toyo Tires Skidmarked—a 10-ft. wall angled toward Mudders. Teammates must work together to get on top of the wall, and then navigate down the face of it past a row of Toyo tires. Toyo Tires is also the Official Tire of Mudderella—a five- to seven-mile obstacle course challenge designed by women for women.

Husky Corp. Acquires S.U.R.&R.

Husky Corp. has completed the asset acquisition of S.U.R.&R. of Akron, Ohio—a supplier of fuel, brake, air conditioning and transmission fluid line repair kits, along with specialty tools used within the automotive aftermarket industry. The acquisition is part of Husky Corp.’s strategy as an industry leader in petroleum dispensing nozzles and related equipment to serve customer needs in the broader transportation sector.

THE SHOP Magazine Joins Champion Oil 60th Anniversary

Champion Brands has announced that National Business Media (NBM) and THE SHOP magazine will be the official national print and digital business media sponsor for Champion’s 60th Anniversary Celebrations. 

Phillips 66 Lubricants Consolidates Brand Portfolio

Phillips 66 Lubricants announced that the company will consolidate its Lubricants portfolio into two brands, Phillips 66 and Kendall Motor Oil, beginning July 1. According to the company, transitioning away from a tri-branded strategy will help to elevate the profile of Phillips 66 Lubricants as a national lubricants supplier and better position it for the future. As a result of the consolidation, Phillips 66 Lubricants will optimize its product portfolio mix and develop a full line of lubricants products for every need under the Phillips 66 brand. The consolidation affects only Phillips 66 Lubricants business; Phillips 66, Conoco and 76 fuel brands will remain intact.

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By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The South Dakota Legislature approved legislation to allow the issuance of a single license plate for special-interest motor vehicles.

Legislation to allow the issuance of a single license plate for special-interest motor vehicles was approved by the South Dakota Legislature. The bill will now be sent to the governor for his signature and enactment into law. The bill, favored by state hobbyists, requires that the single registration plate be attached to the rear of the special-interest motor vehicle. The measure defines a special-interest motor vehicle as “a vehicle that is collected, preserved, restored or maintained by the owner as a leisure pursuit and is not used for general or commercial transportation.” 

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The South Dakota Legislature approved legislation to allow the issuance of a single license plate for special-interest motor vehicles.

Legislation to allow the issuance of a single license plate for special-interest motor vehicles was approved by the South Dakota Legislature. The bill will now be sent to the governor for his signature and enactment into law. The bill, favored by state hobbyists, requires that the single registration plate be attached to the rear of the special-interest motor vehicle. The measure defines a special-interest motor vehicle as “a vehicle that is collected, preserved, restored or maintained by the owner as a leisure pursuit and is not used for general or commercial transportation.” 

For more information, visit the SEMA Action Network (SAN) website. For details, contact Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.