LAKE HAVASU, AZ (03.30.26) – The 2nd Annual ToonFest USA Boat Show was making waves on Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28, at the Havasu Riviera Marina. Attendees checked out the latest and greatest from each participating manufacturer and even got some smoking deals on a new pontoon boat from attending dealers. There was a strong selection of marine vendors on site along with food, good music and cold drinks. The large ToonFest Glow Party Saturday night capped ToonFestUSA.
The ToonFest layout from high above with the dock in the background.
KICKER Marine and KICKER Audio were on site with a strong setup as Lorin Morrell, Maddog Media, orchestrated the event. KICKER Marine products were set up underneath the KICKER tent and the KICKER RZR was also on site Livin’Loud with music for attendees.
Morrell related “The weekend was unseasonably warm reaching 100 degrees around noon. Attendance was stronger before noon as people went out on the lake to stay cooler on the waves in the afternoon. The ToonFest was a terrific market for KICKER Marine and Audio products.”
A wide selection of KICKER Marine products on display.
Adding “There were snowbirds on site from cold areas in the northern US. Some I talk with actually have boats docked here and when they saw the KICKER Marine products it opened their eyes to upgrade their boat here at Lake Havasu. I let them know about Elite for their boat and Ron’s for other rides.”
The KICKER RZR was Livin’ Loud throughout the event.
“In addition, I showed other snowbirds the opportunities to add KICKER Marine to their boats when I showed them the KICKER dealer locator in their city up North. And of course all were listening to the KICKER RZR. One snowbird in the house even said he was going to call the local dealer in Havasu to add the KICKER tower speakers to his in progress project” Morrell concluded.
Looking forward to 2027!
There is a large boating community in the Lake Havasu area and with the growing success of these two events, the ToonFestUSA will continue to grow in the future.
SEATTLE, WA (03.30.26) – The 2026 PACIFIC NW MOBILE ELECTRONICS EXPO is officially opening up Dealer Registration this week on April 2. Once again, we look forward to bringing Vendors, Distributors, and 12 Volt Mobile Electronic Dealers together over a 3-day period, May 18-20, as per the Expo Committee.
Mark Giovannetti added, “Through the hard work of all of the participating Representative Firms, Manufacturers and Distributors, this year dealers will have the opportunity of seeing more new product introductions and categories than ever before!
PALM BEACH, FL (03.30.26) – ZZ2 is excited to announce the release of the ITZ-HON Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto Integration Kit, designed specifically for 2018–2019 Honda Accord vehicles.
Enhance the driving experience by adding convenience and safety features that your customers will love.
Get in touch with our sales team today at 929-220-1212 or sales@zz-2.com to learn more about ZZ2’s products and to become an authorized dealer.
OZARK, MO (03.27.26) – The Ozarks will turn up the volume on April 4th with AMP’D UP in the Ozarks. This is a car show that is Audio focused and brings enthusiast, custom vehicles and major industry brands together for a one day showcase of sound and innovation.
Hosted by Creative Audio, a well established and trusted retailer specializing in car, home, and marine audio the event will highlight the latest technology in mobile sound systems and vehicle customization.
The KICKER Semi will return.
The show will feature booths and demonstrations from leading audio brands, alongside a wide range of custom vehicles showcasing powerful audio installations and creative builds.
AMP’D UP in the Ozarks aims to celebrate the growth of the Car-Audio community by giving enthusiast the opportunity to experience cutting edge audio systems, meet industry experts and connect with others who share a passion for high performance sound.
Organizers expect attendees from across the region for what is shaping up to be one of the Ozarks most exciting Audio focused automotive events of the year.
Creative Audio will once again have a booth to showcase new products and connect with enthusiast.
The 2025 AMP’D UP event filled the Convention Center with vender booths and demos, show cars and enthusiasts. Creative Audio, KICKER, KENWOOD, HERTZ, JBL, Memphis Audio, Rockford Fosgate, Cicada and Wet Sounds plus ORCA/Focal were featured exhibitors.
METAIRIE, LA (03.27.26) – A proven design, now refined with smoother output, stronger protection, and even greater reliability—at the same price.
Our new V2 Flush Mount Taillights for Jeep and Bronco platforms take a proven design and elevate it with upgraded optical performance and enhanced internal protection, all while keeping the same fitment, install, and price.
A Cleaner, More Refined Light Output
The most noticeable upgrade is in the light itself. With a new double-diffusion optical system, V2 delivers a smoother, more uniform output with reduced hotspots, giving your vehicle a cleaner, more premium appearance.
Brake and running lights now appear more consistent and defined, improving both visibility and overall styling, day or night.
Same Install. Same Price. More Value.
Nothing changes when it comes to installation or cost. You still get the same precise fitment and true plug-and-play setup, with no modifications required.
The difference is in the value. We’ve doubled the warranty from 1 year to 2 years, giving you even more confidence in the upgraded design.
Refined, Not Replaced.
This isn’t a redesign, it’s a refinement of a product that’s already earned its reputation. By integrating the latest advancements in LED and power management technology, we’ve made it cleaner, stronger, and more reliable without changing what made it a favorite in the first place.
STILLWATER, OK (03.27.26) – Getting a clean, noise-free signal from your head unit is essential for unlocking the full potential of your audio system. The KICKER K-Series Interconnects deliver clean and powerful signal transfer from your head unit to your amplifier.
The silver-tinned oxygen-free copper conductors ensure maximum conductivity and superior bass response. Twisted-pair construction rejects electromagnetic interference for crystal clear sound .Gold-plated split-pin RCA connectors provide secure, corrosion-resistant connections that stay tight.
The ergonomic K-Grip connectors make installation easy and secure, while the durable braided jacket protects the cable for long-term reliability. Ultra-slim design allows easy routing in tight vehicle spaces.
Available in 2-channel and 4-channel versions with multiple length options to fit any install perfectly.
Make sure your install has the cleanest signal and look.
ATLANTA, GA (03.26.26) – The DB Experience was unveiled in the southeast this past weekend at the Shiflet and Dickson Dealer Show in Gastonia NC on Saturday and Sunday and at Dave & Buster’s in Atlanta Tuesday night. The DB Experience is an amazing rolling showroom filled with displays for products and live demos. Randy Goodman and Leo Gonzalez orchestrated the two events with the DB Experience crew. To make the experience happen the crew rolled from South Texas to Gastonia for the one-way 1300 mile trip to get the DB Experience tour rolling.
The DB Experience behind the tow truck.
The DB Experience during set up. Check out the 10’ inflatable woofer on the right.
The DB Experience at Dave & Buster’s in Atlanta was a perfect setting for dealers from area Distributors to get together. 75 attendees enjoyed dinner and saw new products in the Euphoria Marine and Powersports Line as well as new Micro Amps in the DB Drive Line.
Attendees check out the inside of the DB Experience (L) and at the dinner meeting inside Dave & Buster’s.
The stage area up front with the outside at Dave & Buster’s in Atlanta.
“Dinner was provided and networking time was also included in the DB Experience unveil. As dealers went outside and entered the rolling showroom they were able to see new products as well as have live demos. These 2 events were a terrific way for all to really get the season kicked off and rolling” Randy Goodwin related.
The DB Experience set up at the Shiflet Show on Sunday.
The 10’ high inflatable sub was an attention getter for the booth.
At the Shiflet and Dickson Dealer Show in Gastonia the DB Experience was like a magnet in the large outdoor area. Some rain Saturday night slowed the possibilities, but on Sunday it was full speed ahead as attendee spent time checking out all of the products and live demos inside. Additionally, a 10’ inflatable DB Drive subwoofer was a studio for attendees to snap an image and share with their friends.
Stay tuned for more from The DB Experience from the 12volt Central Studios.
EDMOND, OK (03.26.26) – On April 8th from 11–1, Petra will host its annual Beats & Bites Car Audio Event, a customer appreciation day, dedicated to the 12-Volt community.
At the event, attendees will enjoy free BBQ lunch sponsored by DB Drive, along with drinks and dessert provided by Pioneer. The event will also feature exclusive one-day deals on some of the top car audio brands that Petra retailers rely on every day.
Retailers who attend will have the opportunity to connect with Petra team members, meet with representatives from DB Drive and Pioneer, plus learn about the latest products, technology, and trends in car audio. The event will also include giveaways throughout the day, including a 65” TV and other popular car audio and tech items.
Ed Lacy, District Manager and 12-Volt expert at Petra, shared, “This event is all about our customers. We want to give installers and retailers a chance to enjoy some great food, learn about new products, and take advantage of special deals we only offer during events like this. It’s a great opportunity to connect with our customers and the brands that help drive their business.”
WASHINGTON, DC (03.26.26) – The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) today announced its relaunch with an expanded advocacy strategy, enhanced research capabilities, and a renewed commitment to coalition-based action to protect the future of the off-road industry and enthusiast community.
With a focus on powersports and dirt bikes, as well as trucks and SUVs, ORBA’s core mission – to serve as the off-road business community’s leading advocate on issues affecting access, recreation, and responsible land use – remains unchanged. What is new is a more rigorous, data-driven approach that includes regional economic impact reports, consumer research, and deeper collaboration across the outdoor recreation ecosystem.
“No single organization can achieve our advocacy goals alone,” said ORBA leadership. “The future of off-road access depends on strong coalitions, shared expertise, and coordinated action. We are always stronger together. Thank you to all who have taken the time to provide us important guidance and insights as we developed the future of ORBA, including many members of SEMA’s TORA community and local and regional OHV advocates.”
By combining SEMA’s government affairs expertise and storytelling capabilities, and the reach of the enthusiast-driven SEMA Action grassroots network, ORBA will support and strengthen the work of nonprofit partners operating at the local, state, and regional levels. These organizations bring critical on-the-ground expertise that is essential to ensuring a strong and sustainable future for the off-road community.
As ORBA enters a new chapter, the organization remains focused on advancing its mission through strong advocacy, collaboration, and responsible stewardship of public lands. Sean P. Holman has been named Interim Executive Director and Laura Butcheras Legislative Director. Karen Bailey-Chapman, SVP of Public and Government Affairs for SEMA, will continue to lead the organization’s strategy implementation. Fred Wiley will retire from his role with ORBA, marking the conclusion of his tenure with the organization. Wiley played a significant role in ORBA’s history and development, and we thank him for his years of service and dedication to the off-road business community.
What’s Ahead for ORBA
As part of its relaunch, ORBA outlined several priority initiatives already underway:
Protecting Access to Public Lands ORBA will continue to monitor and provide formal comments on administrative, state, and federal actions that impact access to public lands. Current efforts include ongoing engagement related to the Western Mojave (WEMO) plan, Johnson Valley, and Moab’s Labyrinth Rims/Gemini Bridges Travel Management Plan, with additional projects expected in the months ahead. Additionally, ORBA will increase its work educating legislative staffers, political appointees, and other policy-related organizations about the threat to public lands access and the economic impact trail closures would have on the U.S. economy and, importantly, U.S. automotive manufacturing.
Supporting Federal Legislation that Preserves Motorized Access to Outdoor Spaces ORBA has joined other partners in support of the federal Outdoor Americans with Disabilities Act (S. 2968), the Public Lands Access Restoration Act (H.R. 7979), and expanded funding for the Recreational Trails Program. Advancing these legislative efforts will be among the key priorities during SEMA’s upcoming Washington Rally in Washington, D.C.
Continuing the EcoLogic Partners Collaboration ORBA will maintain its partnership with EcoLogic Partners – a coalition that includes ORBA, American Motorcyclist Association District 37, and the American Sand Association – to challenge actions that threaten access to public lands. Most recently, SEMA and EcoLogic Partners jointly funded successful litigation against the California Coastal Commission’s attempt to close OHV access at Oceano Dunes.
Launching Regional Economic Impact Reports While national data demonstrates the economic significance of outdoor recreation, ORBA is focused on arming policymakers and the off-road community with localized data. The organization plans to complete four regional economic impact reports across geographically diverse areas of the United States in 2026 and 2027, highlighting the off-road industry’s role as a critical economic driver in local communities.
Expanding Coalitions and Partnerships ORBA does not exist to replace the work of other organizations in the off-road community. Instead, ORBA’s role is to support, amplify, and collaborate – whether through joint legislative initiatives, shared advocacy efforts, or by working with business members to educate customers and vendors about emerging threats and opportunities from government and special interest actions.
ORBA will strategically align efforts with SEMA’s Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) council.
Stewardship and Education Land stewardship and driver education are foundational to the long-term health and credibility of the off-road recreation community. Responsible use of public lands protects the environments that make off-roading possible, helps preserve access for future generations, and demonstrates to land managers and policymakers that enthusiasts are committed partners – not adversaries – in conservation. Driver education plays a critical role by teaching best practices such as staying on designated trails, minimizing resource damage, respecting wildlife and other users, and understanding local rules and conditions.
Together, stewardship and education reduce conflicts, prevent closures driven by misuse, and strengthen the community’s voice when advocating for continued access. Simply put, protecting the land and educating those who enjoy it are essential to keeping off-road recreation sustainable, respected, and accessible.
Looking Forward With new tools, deeper partnerships, and a renewed focus on collaboration, ORBA is positioning itself to be a more effective advocate for businesses, enthusiasts, and the lands that make off-road recreation possible.
Upgraded Membership Benefits Government affairs and advocacy remain the core competency of ORBA and a significant reason for business members to invest. We have upgraded the membership benefits to include regular communications, sponsored brand content across ORBA and SEMA Action Network digital channels and access to consumer research tools, and more.
Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA Senior Vice President, Public and Government Affairs
Karen Bailey-Chapman is SEMA’s Senior Vice President of Public and Government Affairs, where she oversees all government affairs efforts for SEMA and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) and leads programs related to legislation, regulations, and government policies on issues affecting emission regulations, consumer choice, business opportunities, and more. Bailey-Chapman is passionate about exploring off-road spaces, often in her easily identifiable yellow Jeep, “Bananana.”
Sean P. Holman, Interim Executive Director
Sean P. Holman is a longtime automotive enthusiast and veteran off-road journalist who worked for Motor Trend Group for nearly 20 years, eventually overseeing content for the company’s Truck & Off-Road Group as its group content director. Holman is president of the Mojave Desert Heritage and Cultural Association, as well as co-creator and host of The Truck Show Podcast with Holman.
Laura Butcher, Legislative Director
Laura Butcher has worn many hats in the off-road community, including as owner/CEO of VORRA (Valley Off-Road Racing Association), program manager for Tread Lightly!, executive director of Farmy’s Off-Road Park, and board member for the Nevada Off-road Association. Butcher is a 2024 inductee in the Off-road Motorsports Hall of Fame, a testament to her lengthy career as an industry advocate and enthusiast.
GASTONIA, NC (03.25.26) – The 2026 Shiflet & Dickson 34th Annual Dealer Show ‘Cranked It Up’!. The event kicked off Saturday night at 7pm for the party with food and drinks at the Shiflet & Dickson location at 2480 Bessemer City Rd in Gastonia NC 28052. Live music and pork BBQ was on the menu plus time with manufacturer staff members, reps, fellow dealers and Shiflet & Dickson Team members David Holland, Dave, Chris, Lisa, Billie, Andy and Maureen. Over 50 dealers spent the night as guests in the local Hampton Saturday night.
Soon after the doors opened Sunday, there was activity on the shelf floor.
Sunday was show day that ran from 9AM until 5PM with over 40 brands represented. There was lunch on Sunday with delicious burgers and sides as the show ran from 9 AM until 5PM. The showroom was packed with vendor booths and well as demo vehicles and bikes outside along with special unveilings.
A very happy David Holland stated “This was our 34th Annual Dealer Show and our company’s 71st Anniversary… and it was TERRIFIC. Many dealers had not had the ability to go to a show recently to see the newest 12volt products. With vendor motorcycles, side by sides and pickups in the house we let our customers hear what these products sound like in a real world setting…. other than a YouTube video on a smartphone or laptop. The DB Drive Experience and KICKER Toyota righthand drive Lite Ace rig, with almost 100,000 watts on board, were standouts and dealers liked seeing Mike Colundjia, MC Sales, show the latest radios from Linkswell.”
”DB Drive unveiled company’s new DB Experience….a full showroom on wheels with live demos and product displays. In addition, Randy Goodwin and Leo Gonzalez showed new products and also selling profitability as a topic of discussions with dealers along with the new products.”
The Shiflet show is family oriented and Jeff Falk is showing new products to Luis Palomino and the family from Street Concept Car Audio in Charlotte.
Time for a little Sunday lunch.
DK Electronics again had 2 decked out demo bikes, featuring DB Drive and PowerBass gear, for live demos. T J Lee showcased the bike installations. The new PowerBass PBM amps, with Jeff Falk spotlighting the features of the small footprint amp on the PowerBass bike, was a hit with dealers.
The DB Drive Experience attracted attention from the outside, showed the latest products with demos on the inside and the big inflatable subwoofer moved a lot of air.
The KICKER Toyota righthand drive Lite Ace was Livin’Loud with nearly 100,000 watts on board.
“MAXPro, with Allison and Ricky Parker, always provide the latest on Window film and PPF offerings at Shiflet’s Spring Show. “We discussed our new films and really dug into the benefits of adding PPF with Shiflet’s dealers this year. Shiflet sells a good amount of architectural products for his dealers. Now is the time for the tinting season and in rural areas farmers can really benefit with film installed. Also PPF protection has shown to help retain the resale value of a vehicle” Allison Parker stated.
Allison and Ricky Gibson on site and Ricky is showing a dealer the MAXPro lineup.
“The Harley that TJ Lee put together at DK Electronics for the show really rocks loaded with PowerBass gear” Jeff Falk shouted out.
Concluding Holland stated “Our show was one again like having our large family come into our facility for a large get together. We also had many of our vendors that offered us special discounts before and after the show to make our dealers more profitable on their sales floors. We thank all of our extended family members for coming to the 34th Annual Dealer Show this past weekend. A huge thank you to our business partners also.”
Stay tuned for more from the 12volt Central Studios.
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