NORTH BRANCH, MN (09.17.26) – The Sno Barons Snowmobile Club welcomed a strong crowd to the 59th Hay Days event that happened in September 12 and 13. The exhilarating event is the largest snowmobile event in the world and a premier Powersports show. During the event there was a swap meet, grass drags, freestyle expo and UTVs participating in mud events.
On the massive grounds there were hundreds of vendors set up under tents. Trail Star Audio was one of those vendors that returned for a very exciting event.
Trail Star Audio had several loaded rides available for demos.
Products were available for sale in the booth.
Chuck Holey related “Once again this was a terrific event and was a very, very busy day for my wife, family and friends. We had great support from D-Source Distributing with Josh Burris as they provided assistance in the booth as well as inventory. During the event we sold a lot of PowerBass powerbars and portable Bluetooth speakers along with SSV Works, JBL, ExoGear Sunglasses and LED whip products and more.
Josh Burris related “Working with Chuck and his team is important to connect enthusiast with products vendors across the 12volt industry offer. In the Trail Star Audio both D-Source brands included PowerBass, Rockford Fosgate, SSV Works and Let Freedom Ride 605 that offers a UTV window protective screen ideal for transporting UTVs on a trailer. Once again it was a fun event and we look forward to next year.”
Once again, Chuck Holey was having fun with his cardboard stand-up. Attendees also liked taking images with Chuck.
Check out this crazy track project. TRIIX Customs was a partner on the project.
This Trail Star Audio KICKER project was definitely Livin’ Loud and grabbing eyeballs.
Some of the products we had on display attendees were not aware of and that helped us drive sales for other products. Our decked out Trail Star Audio UTV was loaded and drew a lot of attention during the event. Our store in Eagan is about 50 miles from North Branch and we set a lot of appointments for installations and the phone has been ringing off the hook this week.”
OXNARD, CA (09.17.26) – DSP Solutions Inc., a leader in lifestyle and solution-based audio infotainment technology for vehicles, has appointed Kristen Mauricio Senior Brand Manager for Modus, effective immediately. Mauricio will report to Vice President of Marketing, Joz Wang, and will own the long-term strategy, equity, and growth of the Modus brand and its award-winning luxury and high-end audio solutions.
“Modus is shaping the future of the industry through performance and engineering for an unprecedented experience on the road and in the water,” said Mauricio. “I am pleased to join a team that is passionate about moving the needle. Through strategic growth and leveraging the unique technology that Modus boasts, I am excited to help Modus make a continued impact in the industry.”
Mauricio is a marketing veteran with more than 16 years of global experience, including previous roles with AT&T, Seagate, and Guitar Center.
“Specializing in analytics-based strategy and high-impact brand development, Kristen’s addition to Modus reflects our mission to revolutionize the in-vehicle experience with premier audio technologies,” added Wang. “We are excited to have her on the team.”
For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com.
NEW YORK, NY (09.17.26) – SiriusXM announced that the Company’s SXM-11 satellite is now operational, following successful in-orbit testing and handover by Intuitive Machines. SXM-11 is the most powerful satellite in SiriusXM’s high-powered fleet and is designed to improve signal reception, expand Alaska coverage and support reliable service across North America.
“Bringing SXM-11 into service strengthens our next-generation satellite fleet and reinforces the long-term resilience of our network,” said Sean Gibbons, Chief Product and Technology Officer at SiriusXM. “For listeners, that means a premium in-car experience with broad, reliable coverage, including where cellular service may be limited. Through SiriusXM with 360L, we combine that reach with the choice, personalization and interactivity of streaming, to bring the best of both technologies together in millions of vehicles.”
210 million SiriusXM-equipped vehicles across North America are on the road today and rely on the proprietary satellite infrastructure supporting SiriusXM’s in-vehicle listening experience. Built on the Intuitive Machines IM 1300™ satellite platform, SXM-11 weighed more than 15,000 pounds, or nearly 6,950 kilograms at launch. The satellite stands 28 feet tall and spans more than 106 feet with its solar panels deployed. Orbiting 22,000 miles above Earth, SXM-11 features a large, unfurlable 30-foot (9 meter) main beam antenna that broadcasts audio and data to users on the ground, with an estimated eight million square miles of broadcast coverage.
“SXM-11 marks another milestone in our longstanding partnership with SiriusXM. Over the course of our relationship, we have built 13 spacecraft together,” said Chris Johnson, President, Intuitive Machines. “This handover reflects our shared commitment to mission success and the confidence SiriusXM continues to place in our team to deliver high-performance, reliable space systems. We continue to demonstrate our ability to design, build, and deliver satellite systems that meet the demanding requirements of today’s commercial space market with robust, scalable high-power platforms.”
SiriusXM also offers satellite-delivered Marine and Aviation services that provide pilots and boaters with weather data and other important information directly in their cockpits. SXM-11 carries an additional communications payload that will be used to deliver expanded WCS-band coverage.
SXM-11 launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station at 10:25 p.m. ET on June 28. SiriusXM and Intuitive Machines subsequently completed the commissioning and testing required to verify that the spacecraft and its communications systems were ready for operational service.
SXM-11 is the 15th satellite launched for SiriusXM and will replace XM-5. It is part of SiriusXM’s ongoing satellite fleet-refresh program. SXM-9 and SXM-10 commenced service in 2025, and SXM-12 is currently scheduled for launch in 2027.
STILLWATER, OK (09.16.26) – After 41 years at KICKER®/Stillwater Designs®, Vice President of Finance and Administration Jeanne Snyder recently announced her retirement from the company to enjoy more time with friends and family.
“There are so many aspects of our company today that have her fingerprints on them, that it’s hard to count them all,” said KICKER President and founder Steve Irby. “Jeanne is truly at the very heart and soul of this company.”
Snyder began in 1985 as the company bookkeeper and eventually led the eight-member KICKER Administration Department in charge of all things financial and human resources. Over time, she also inherited and oversaw the 18-member Customer Service Department and the five-member IT (Information Technology) Department.
Jeanne Snyder
“My first meeting with her was her interview, and she showed up at lunchtime,” Irby said. “I was just leaving, so I asked her if she would join me. I actually interviewed her as I was eating lunch. We were very informal in those days – probably still are, but everything worked out just fine.”
She quickly became a key person in KICKER finance and soon moved into the position of Office Manager, acquiring duties that at the time were more like those of a General Manager. She was the backbone of KICKER financial and administrative operations for several years following.
“Jeanne gave her all to KICKER for over 41 faithful years,” remarked Jay Ralston, KICKER GM. “I met her the day she hired me almost 40 years ago, so we both grew up at KICKER.
“The company would look much different without all her contributions through the years. She literally had a hand in almost every aspect of KICKER and our successes.”
Snyder will remain on the company corporate Board of Directors.
CHASKA, MN (09.16.26) – “WOW what a cool show on Saturday at TRiiX Customs of Chaska. Autosound Showcase did our 2nd IASCA 2X show of the year here in Minnesota” Keith Turner, Autosound Showcase, stated.
The tricked out TRIIX Customs UTV was spotlighted out front of the store.
All on site checked out wild custom installations.
Competitors spent time in the showroom filled with installation possibilities.
Competitors competed with a number of different types of vehicles.
For TRIIX Customs Chris St. Aubin related “This was our second IASCA Competition this year and over a dozen competitors were in the lanes. Hosting these events attracts area enthusiasts and the buzz around town continues for weeks. My wife Jenn and I, along with a friend, were judges in the Virgin Ears Shootout. We are looking forward to our events next spring and fall. The Shootout was just for fun and something different for the area.”
Soon it was time for lunch and Chris’s high school friends Brian and Bernadette we’re at the grill.
Competitors vehicles were backed up along the storefront for judging.
“After the 2x IASCA judging was done we took the 6 top scores and did what we called The Virgin Ears Shootout. The judges were Jenn St.Aubin and a friend of Jenn and Chris St.Aubin. The 6 cars were done from 1st to 6th in a bracket style shootout. High score against the lowest score. After the 1st round there were three cars left. The 3 competitors name were put in a box, then, we had a standby person draw one of the names. That name was drawn, and that person received a second round bye. Then, the other two competitors went at it and the winner of that round when against the the competitor with the bye.The top 3 competitors receive prizes. 3rd place was a MTX amp 2nd place a big Rockford amp, 1st place received a brand new pair of JBL monitor speakers, courtesy of John Senters of Genesis Audio in Columbus, OH. This was our first time doing this type of shootout, and it was something different and fun for everyone. We are looking forward the 2027 series with Chris and his crew” So here are the results below” Turner concluded.
All was ready under the tent once the burgers came off the grill.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.16.26) – The 2026 SEMA Show continues to build momentum due to increasing exhibitor demand and strong growth across key categories, including tools and equipment. For professionals focused on automotive service, fabrication, and repair, this year’s Show offers a comprehensive look at the latest tools and shop solutions driving productivity and precision.
The SEMA Show’s dedicated Tools & Equipment section, located in South Hall Upper, will feature hundreds of exhibiting brands, making it a must-see destination for technicians, shop owners, fabricators, and installers. Attendees will discover a full range of professional-grade tools engineered to meet the evolving demands of today’s automotive workforce.
From hand tools and power tools to diagnostic equipment, shop systems, lifting solutions, fabrication tools, and specialty service equipment, the section will highlight innovations designed to improve efficiency, safety, and accuracy in every type of automotive environment. As vehicles become more advanced, the need for high-quality, specialized tools continues to grow, driving strong interest and investment across the category.
The recently released SEMA Market Report highlights several major aftermarket segments that rely heavily on professional installation and service. The report notes that the U.S. vehicle fleet reached 296.5 million vehicles in operation in 2025, while the wheels, tires, and suspension category totaled $12.6 billion, making it one of the largest segments of the automotive aftermarket. Combined with significant professional installation rates across categories such as wheels and tires, suspension, drivetrain, driver-assist systems, and electronics, these market conditions point to a strong underlying demand for the tools, equipment, diagnostics, and shop technologies that support aftermarket service providers.
The SEMA Show Tools & Equipment section is anchored by legacy brands that have been exhibiting at the event for many years and have helped shape the professional tools market, including Bad Dog Tools, Carlyle Tools, Gearwrench, Harbor Freight, Knipex, Milwaukee, Spectro Wire & Cable Inc., and Wiha. Their continued presence underscores both the heritage and innovation that define the tools and equipment segment.
“The Tools & Equipment category is fundamental to everything that happens across the automotive aftermarket,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “Whether it’s diagnostics, fabrication, or daily service work, professionals rely on advanced tools to get the job done right. The SEMA Show brings together the industry’s most trusted legacy brands and the newest innovators, giving attendees a firsthand look at the solutions shaping the future of automotive work.”
Overall, exhibitor commitments for the 2026 SEMA Show have surpassed 1 million net square feet of indoor exhibit space, with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas. The event remains one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the country, reflecting continued investment and growth across the automotive aftermarket.
Beyond tools and equipment, the 2026 SEMA Show will feature strong participation across performance, trucks, collision repair, mobile electronics, powersports, and emerging technologies. Major OEMs, including Toyota, Ford, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Stellantis, will also return, reinforcing the connection between factory engineering and aftermarket solutions.
Attendees can also experience signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders, and FutureTech Studio, offering a closer look at the trends and technologies influencing the next generation of automotive tools and shop environments.
The 2026 SEMA Show will take place Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas as part of the broader “SEMA Week” experience, which includes public access on Friday and the high-energy SEMA Fest.
OCEAN CITY MD (09.15.26) – The OC Rock and Ride was Ocean City’s ultimate motorcycle and music experience bringing live music, vendors, bikes, entertainment and more to town September 9-12, 2026.
Sound of Tri-State returned to the Ocean City Inlet for the 10th year. Sound of Tri-State team members on site included Store Manager Scott McKinnon from the Wilmington DE location along with Techs AJ Rivera, Erick Frias and Scott Rettig who were joined by Bruno Berg and Ian Worrall from The Progressive Group helping to drive sales and onsite installs at the event.
Scott McKinnon and Bruno Berg set the tents up to be ready for a Wednesday set up.
There was action in the booth on Day 1.
This is just a small portion of the overall venue.
“This year’s event was terrific with a great turnout of bikers and traffic in the booth driving business with Rockford Fosgate and Hertz sales and installs. Several bikers set appointments for this week. Bruno Berg and Ian Worrall from Team Progressive helped throughout the event. Bruno made some social media posts also. All in all a super event, in spite of last day rain, and we look forward to 2027” McKinnon related.
During the event there were always bikes waiting in line for the a space in the install tents.
Master Tech Mehdi Narimanian in the booth helping spread the work load.
An excited Bruno Berg with an excited social media post inviting followers to check out the hot rides.
Bruno Berg added “It was an amazing event and special for Ian and myself to be onsite at the event. Sound of Tri-State is a a shining example of a proactive 12volt retailer attending an event and connecting with enthusiasts, in this case bikers. Bikers will remember seeing the Rockford and Hertz products in the booth plus the custom work the Sound of Tri-State team added to bikes. Strong sales added to the success Sound of Tri-State earned at this year’s event.”
OC Rock and Ride 2027 is tentatively scheduled September 8-12.
The RK-281 provides an easy way to add long-range remote start control to compatible systems.
Key Features:
Up to 1/4-mile range
NEW high-speed, function-enhanced RF protocol
Main harness included for EXCALIBUR 80 Series systems
Adapter/power injection harness included for compatible data start systems
Compatible with a wide range of popular data start systems
When paired with an EXCALIBUR 80 Series Analog Remote Start, the RK-281 also supports extended functions including Remote Valet, high/low temperature auto start activation, feature programming, Lock Without Arm, and more.
DIAMOND BAR, CA (09.15.26) – The 2026 SEMA Show is picking up speed, with strong exhibitor demand and continued growth across key categories, especially in tires, wheels, and related service technologies. For professionals focused on this critical segment of the automotive aftermarket, this year’s Show offers an expansive look at the latest innovations shaping performance, styling, and shop operations.
The SEMA Show’s dedicated Global Tires Expo and Wheels & Accessories sections, located in South Hall Lower of the Las Vegas Convention Center, will feature hundreds of exhibiting brands, making it a central hub for retailers, installers, distributors, and builders. Attendees will have access to a comprehensive range of products designed to meet the needs of today’s evolving vehicles and consumers.
The strength of the category is reflected in findings from the annual SEMA Market Report, which shows that the U.S. wheels and tires aftermarket is a $6.8 billion market. The report also found that the broader wheels, tires, and suspension category totals $12.6 billion, making it one of the largest segments in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.
From high-performance tires and off-road applications to custom wheels, tire service equipment, balancing systems, alignment technologies, and shop management solutions, the Global Tires Expo and Wheels & Accessories sections will highlight innovations driving advancements across both product performance and operational efficiency. As vehicle platforms diversify and consumer expectations rise, the tire and wheel category continues to see rapid innovation.
The SEMA Market Report also underscores the importance of professional installers within the category. While consumers continue to personalize their vehicles, professional installation remains critical, particularly for off-road tires and wheels, where fitment, vehicle setup, and performance requirements often require specialized expertise.
The Global Tires Expo and Wheels & Accessories sections are anchored by brands that have helped define the market and have been exhibiting at the SEMA Show for many years. This includes tire manufacturers such as Atturo, Kenda, and Maxxis; iconic wheel brands like Cragar, Konig, MV Forged, Raceline, RTX Wheels, and Vision Wheel; and key tire industry technology providers including Autel, Coats, Corghi USA, and Hunter Engineering. Their continued presence reinforces the Show’s role as a long-standing gathering place for both heritage brands and emerging innovators.
“Tires and wheels are foundational to vehicle performance, safety, and customization, and they continue to evolve at a rapid pace,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “From advanced tire compounds and all-terrain designs to cutting-edge wheel styling and shop technologies, the tires and wheels sections showcase the full scope of innovation. The combination of legacy brands and forward-looking companies highlights the strength and future of this segment.”
Overall, exhibitor commitments for the 2026 SEMA Show have already surpassed 1 million net square feet, with more than 2,000 brands preparing to connect with a global audience Nov. 3-6 in Las Vegas. The event remains one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the United States, reflecting strong growth and investment across the automotive aftermarket.
The 2026 SEMA Show will also feature strong participation across performance, trucks, collision repair, mobile electronics, tools, and emerging technologies. Major OEMs, including Toyota, Ford, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Stellantis, will also return, reinforcing the connection between factory engineering and aftermarket opportunity.
Attendees can also explore signature features such as the New Products Showcase, Battle of the Builders, and FutureTech Studio, offering insight into the trends and technologies shaping the next generation of automotive performance and design.
The 2026 SEMA Show will take place Nov. 3–6 in Las Vegas, as part of the broader “SEMA Week” experience, which includes public access on Friday and the high-energy SEMA Fest.
CASTLE SHANNON, PA (09.12.26) – Saturday, September 12th was the day the car community gathered at the Castle Shannon Memorial Hall outside of Pittsburgh for a charity event to benefit the Castle Shannon Volunteer Fire Department. The event was filled with amazing cars, delicious food and awards plus several vendors on site and offering ticket auctions for prizes. The dunk tank was fun also and brought smiles from many.
Hundreds of cars are on site for the event.
“Saturday was a terrific day for us at Team Nutz and Fuel Required for the fundraiser. The combined activities helped raise over $6000 for the fire department. It was a great event for the car community and we gave away over 200 bags filled with giveaways, coupons, and discounts for all that entered the judging for classics at the event. Connecting and growing all aspects of the car community is so important for the mobile electronics industry. Overall, it was just a great day” Ed Nuttall related for Team Nutz.
Many customized vehicles were spotlighted at the event.
The Team Nutz booth was set for the event.
Many custom trophies with a piston were awarded.
“A special thanks to all of the local businesses that donated to the Rollin’ In Hot Car Show. Local businesses are always the backbone of supporting local causes. All help raise over $6000 for the CSVFD. We recently learned that the CSVFD is self-funded and they are not funded by tax money or insurance money. In recent years, the funding opportunities were put on hold from the Covid lockdowns. Support from the car community, local businesses and neighbors are what helped keep them moving forward to protect the surrounding communities. We thank all of those who came out to the show to make this happen” Nuttall concluded.
