Kenwood Motorsports Camera Onboard with ‘High on the Hog’ Helicopter

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LAWTON, OK (12.09.22) – High On The Hog is a company based in Lawton OK that offers helicopter hog hunting in southwest Oklahoma. Owner Travis Craig is a retired US Army helicopter combat pilot who offers hunters the opportunity to hunt wild hogs from his MD600N 7 passenger helicopter.

The High On The Hog helicopter takes off on the test flight with the new Kenwood Motorsports system.

Craig related “Feral hogs live in the wild and plague farmers, wildlife and the environment. I saw a way for hunters to go after these wild hogs and launched the High On The Hog company. Most hunts in my helicopter last just a couple hours so I was thinking of ways my clients could extend their rides with videos. In talking with a friend in retail he told me about the Kenwood Motorsports camera and gave me the contact to Marcus Vasconcellos who just happens to live and office right in Lawton. We discussed the concept and set a plan to do it.”

The Kenwood STZ-RF200WD installed in the cabin.
Marcos Vasconcellos during a camera test from the cockpit.

“As far as I know this was the first installation of a Kenwood STZ-RF200WD on a helicopter or aviation. I do a lot of riding on my bike and capture the experiences with the Kenwood camera. I immediately saw how hog hunters could extent their experience flying low over southwest Oklahoma and taking out a wild hog” Marcus, a Kenwood Specialist, related.

These hunters will be able to relive their High On The Hog experience.

Continuing, Marcus added “The actual installation was completed on Friday December 2nd. The installation went very smoothly as there was not the customization required in a vehicle interior. The control unit was mounted in the cabin and we placed one camera to capture images on the ground and the other to show passengers in the cabin. The helicopter runs on 24volts so we used an adaptor to get to 12volts for the Kenwood STZ-RF200WD. Travis has related that after just a few flights all is working as we had planned.”

The High On The Hog helicopter has participated in high school aviation classes.

“Once the trip from a hunt is complete I can supply digital files to my clients. I think many will show fellow hunters and friends. With the holiday season here we planning flights to see, and record, outdoor Christmas lights in cities and towns around Lawton. A big thank you Kenwood for the great camera system and to Marcus for working on this High On The Hog project” Craig concluded.

Visit kenwood.com/usa for more.

German Maestro Distributor Rep-Corps Launches New Dealer Ordering System

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RICHMOND, VA (12.09.22) – Rep-Corps Inc. is launching their in-house designed dealer ordering system, in development for the past few years. Built on a modern backbone on cloud infrastructure, streamlined and optimized for Mobile, Tablet, and Desktop access, with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Square processing integrated from the start. They expect their new dealer-oriented system to set the benchmark for ordering platforms in the industry.

One of the design goals was streamlining the process for Just-In-Time ordering, thanks to their agreement with German Maestro to offer 3-Day international free freight at only a $500 threshold to the continental U.S. and Canada. This allows retailers to prioritize ordering exactly what their clients need, as an alternative to the traditional model of pressuring retailers to stock thousands of dollars worth of product that may end up not being exactly what is needed for a given client, especially in the high-end space where system designs are sometimes completely bespoke.

With the example from the German Maestro line of mixing a’la carte [YWC] parts with standard kits, or using the YWC parts entirely to build custom sets that are not currently available, an example of such being ordering a pair of flat 8” subwoofers with passive crossovers and tweeters from the standard 8” EPIC line kit to make an ultra shallow kit for depth constrained large driver installations, or forgoing passive crossovers entirely and using active processing to instead combine their flat drivers with the higher end Status or M-line mid driver and tweeter options, the system allows easy sorting and access to these truly custom solutions for the modern high-end retailer. Especially with new lines to be added in the near future with similar customization options.

One unique feature of the system is integrated “Progressive Web App” [PWA] functions, which is a modern standard that allows a website to be “installed” to your device, and function as if it were a native app. As a result, the ordering portal can be saved to your Phone or Tablet’s home screen/app drawer for faster and easier access [It can also be saved as a traditional bookmark if the user desires]. Helping to ensure items are placed in their cart to be ordered immediately instead of having to wait to use a desktop/laptop computer as is the case with many existing systems that are designed without mobile use in mind.

Ultimately, the platform’s design goals are meant to address the issues that the founders of Rep-corps believe that many current industry B2B ordering systems have, coming from their experience of operating a storefront in the retail space. The system is designed to be a B2B experience in line what is expected from modern consumer-facing E-commerce platforms, and what they believe dealers need but has been largely unaddressed – systems that are fast, secure, and easy to use with suggestions and criticism encouraged instead of ignored.

Contact Ken or Logan Strzepka at 804-277-4141 or Sales@Rep-Corps.com to inquire about joining their growing network of retailers.

SEMA: Applications Open for Professional Development Program with Dale Carnegie

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (12.09.22) – Following the debut of the SEMA Future Leaders Network’s (FLN) Professional Development Program (PDP) in early 2022, the network will again host the event in 2023. Aspiring leaders and those who want to sharpen their leadership and communication skills are invited to apply for the two-day conference, which is being offered at a significant cost savings. 

Sponsored by FLN in partnership with the world-renown Dale Carnegie Training, the program fee is $1,600 direct from Dale Carnegie. Through the FLN, the fee is only $800 and includes complimentary meals and rooms for two days.

“We held the first PDP in 2022 and it was a massive success with a 100% instructor approval rating from all participants,” said FLN Chair Nick Caloroso. “We’re excited to offer the program for a second year and help our future leaders build upon their skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.”

The program will help participants:

Communicate professionally and confidently in business situations.
Engage others by building rapport, asking pertinent questions and listening.
Build relationships and deal effectively with people in a multitude of scenarios.
Gain cooperation and influence people, including direct reports, laterally and upward.
Use emotional controls to sustain success.
“Reflecting on my experience in Diamond Bar for my first-ever FLN Professional Development Program, I am more than excited about the knowledge that I was able to absorb along with the lifetime of friendships I was able to walk away with,” said Kia Aghai of WARN Industries. “The instructors instilled excitement within the group with their teaching style, which in turn allowed all of us to be extremely open and vocal about our experiences. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment.”

Aspiring leaders and those who want to sharpen their leadership and communication skills are invited to apply for the two-day conference, which is being offered at a significant cost savings. 

The program is limited to 25 FLN members. (Anyone age 39 and under who works for a SEMA-member company can join FLN at no cost.)

Visit www.sema.org/fln-pdp to learn more and apply. Questions can be directed to Denise Waddingham, FLN director, at deniselw@sema.org.

Reliable Product Marketing and Wet Sounds Are on the Road in NorCal

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STOCKTON, CA (12.08.22) – During the week of December 5th RPM and Wet Sounds are on the road with a 3-stop training swing in Northern Cal. Carl Campbell, Wet Sounds National Trainer, along with the RPM Team members Scott Baughman and Brent Fujii scheduled 3 dealer product trainings… set for Livermore, Fresno and Rancho Cordova.

Scott Baughman (R) and Brent Fujii from RPM flank Wet Sounds’ Carl Campbell before the Tuesday night training in Livermore CA.

The trainings are designed for the entire shop covering both sales and technical information. Attendees will see first hand the new Wet Sounds REV HD product, Zero Speakers and the Stealth Series Sound Bars.

The first training session was Tuesday night at the Cattlemens in Livermore CA. Cattlemens is a venue that offers dining and private meeting space that was ideal for the Wet Sounds training. Over 25 were seated as Campbell covered the Wet Sounds lineup with a selection of products displayed on a table for dealers to check out firsthand.

 Carl Campbell conducting the Wet Sounds training for over 25 seated at Cattlemens.

RPM Principal Scott Baughman related “Dealers in our territory see Wet Sounds as their go to line for top quality marine sales. At Cattlemens the new REV HD10’ and 12” Tower speakers drew a lot of interest along with the new ZERO 6” and 8” coaxial speakers.”

Campbell related “In our training sessions we cover products but also marine system design and best practices plus provide an opportunity to answer technical questions for attendees. Some free stuff will also be available.”

A selection of Wet Sounds products were on display for a hands-on experience.

The Wednesday, December 7th was on the schedule at Dave and Busters in Fresno. The Thursday December 8th training, at Wake Audio in Rancho Cordova, will provide attendees with an opportunity to experience LIVE demos of some custom high-end marine installations.

The sessions are set 6 pm til 9 pm. Trainings to start a 6:30 with dinner about 7pm.

During travel between the training stops the team makes dealer visits along the route where possible.

Visit norcalrpm.com for more.

You’re Invited to Come Chill at DEI’s PRI Booth

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RAPID CITY, SD (12.08.22) – The Design Engineering Inc.’s Booth at PRI this year features a cool Trans Am Series racecar, built by Pancho Weaver from Weaver Racing Concepts.

The Boris Said racecar includes several DEI heat control solutions from DEI’s Heat Screen, Floor and Tunnel Shield, Reflect-a-Cool, Titanium Exhaust Wrap & more. The Trams Am series Dodge Challenger will be on display at DEI’s PRI Booth (#301).

Visit designengineering.com for more.

The 2023 PNWCEE Set for May 15-17 2023

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SEATTLE, WA (12.08.22) – The 9th Annual PNWCEE is set for May 15-17 at the Hilton Doubletree Suites at South Center near the Seattle Airport.

Mark Giovannetti and Dan McMilan, who spearhead the event related, “Learning from Factory Trainers in Educational Classes and industry peers is an opportunity to experience the newest Solutions, Technology and Award-Winning Products from Leading manufacturers. We look forward once again to seeing members from the 12volt industry in Seattle.”

Free registration for all Dealers, their Salespeople & Technicians starting December 15.

Go to www.pnwcee.com for updates.

Couple Donates Classic Auto Collection to Northwood University

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MIDLAND, MI (12.07.22) – A Mount Pleasant couple is donating more than $2 million worth of classic automobiles to support Northwood University and The Northwood Idea.

Michael and Dianne Morey have pledged 35 vehicles from their automotive collection in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.

“We are incredibly grateful to Michael and Dianne for this extraordinary gift, which will be used to enhance our Midland campus, create scholarship opportunities, and build the university’s endowment for future students,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald.

A portion of the Morey Collection.

MacDonald noted the Morey’s family story is one of success from hard work — which is the epitome of what Northwood strives to instill in its students, and what its alumni exhibit daily in their respective fields.

The Morey’s story dates back to 1983, when they believed they could build a wood chipper better than anyone else. Mike left his job, invested in a small workshop, and with six employees and a small operating budget, built the Model 100 Brush Bandit, a 12-inch capacity disc-style chipper.

In 1987, based on the success of the Brush Bandit, Bandit Industries was created, and Dianne actively joined the company.

Bandit designed and launched the world’s first self-propelled track whole tree chipper in 1990 and continues to lead this industry segment. Bandit operates a network of more than 180 dealer locations worldwide.

Michael Morey is pictured with a portion of the Morey Collection.

In 2018, the Morey’s announced they would sell 100% of the company to their 462 employees in an employee stock ownership plan. This came after the company entertained two offers to sell from private firms.

“We realized neither was a good fit for Bandit, so we made the decision to sell to our trusted employees,” Dianne Morey told the Morning Sun in 2018.

The company now has 725 employees.

“The Morey’s are stellar examples of how ingenuity, persistence and dedication pave the way for success in a free-market society,” stated Justin Marshall, chief development and engagement officer for Northwood University.

The Morey family will transfer the vehicle titles to Northwood University prior to the close of this calendar year. By June 30, 2023, Northwood University will liquidate The Morey Collection with Mecum Auctions in a no-reserve auction.

The preference is for The Morey Collection to be auctioned at Mecum’s Kissimmee Auction on Jan. 6.

“The cars have been a large part of our lives, and each tells a story,” the Moreys said in a statement. “It’s time for these cars to write a new chapter, and support young men and women who want to work hard, build something of their own, and positively influence the communities they call home. Northwood University is a special place, filled with wonderful students, and we are thrilled to support their mission.”

Not all the cars will be auctioned off, as Northwood University will retain a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette to display on campus.

“We are very pleased to showcase this classic Corvette on campus as a reminder of the Morey’s generosity and American innovation, while using the vehicle throughout the year to support our mission to develop future leaders of global economic and social progress,” Marshall stated.

Northwood University will utilize up to $1,000,000 of the cash proceeds to enhance the campus experience and build upon recent campus improvements dedicated earlier this year in May.

The remaining proceeds will be used to build a scholarship and endowment fund supporting Northwood University’s free-enterprise mission.

Click here for details about the Jan. 6 auction.

DEI’s All New GEN-3 ONYX Turbo Shield at the PRI Show

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN (12.07.22) – Stop by Design Engineering Inc.’s Booth 301 at the PRI Show to get an up-close look at the new GEN-3 Onyx Turbo Shield, along with DEI’s complete line of Turbo Heat Shields.

This new product is like wrapping a turbo in a tuxedo T-shirt. Keep your Turbo cool and running strong with a custom Turbo Heat Shield from DEI.

Available in a variety of styles and fitments for all turbo types, the shields reduce under hood temperatures while protecting sensitive components and encouraging faster spool-ups.

All this and more can be found at the DEI PRI Booth (#301) at the Lucas Oil Convention Center December 7th through 9th.

Visit designengineering.com for more.

Retro Sound Releases RetroPod 6A: Surface-Mount Speaker Modules

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HENDERSON, NV (12.07.22) – The RPOD6 has been re-designed to have a slimmer mounting depth of just 2.44” and accepts the same 6.5” speakers as before. With the new slimmer profile, the RPOD6A can be mounted in a variety of new locations to add speakers to any classic car that didn’t originally come with an audio system without the need to cut or modify the interior.

RetroPods are built with a rugged ABS plastic that can either be painted, wrapped in vinyl, or carpeted to match a vehicle’s interior for a fully customized look. The angled design directs sound towards the listener for better stereo imaging and an enjoyable listening experience. The RPOD6A accepts a 6.5” speaker and is available with RetroSound®’s S-62 Stereo Speakers or their Premium R-652N Stereo Speakers.

The RPOD6A  is available now for $51.99 at www.retromanufacturing.com

Audio House Hosted The Company’s Famous Black Friday Sale

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NAPA, CA (12.06.22) – Following a 2 year pause, due to COVID-19 and product shortages, the Audio House hosted the company’s FAMOUS Black Friday Sale on Friday, November 25th.

Jag Rattu, Audio House owner, related “It was fantastic to be back again with our Black Friday Sale that we have been doing for over 10 years. We did have almost 20 people waiting outside for the doors to open at 7 AM. We promoted the event on social media with a Black Friday VIP Pass, offered free giveaways and had a raffle with a $2,500 system as the grand prize. In addition to the social media promotion we distributed 1500 fliers in the area along with a email blast to our list.”

This post was part of the company’s strong social media outreach.

Manufacturer brands featured during the event included Alpine, Hertz, Focal, Kenwood, Stinger, MEDA, Pioneer, Rockford Fosgate and SolarGard. Alpine rep for NorCal Pete Bobsin was on hand and provided line demos of the Alpine Experience pickup for attendees.

The parking lot was full and the Alpine Experience pickup was ready for demos.
Vanessa was very busy making sure all of the Black Friday specials were set to go.

“We have been in business here since 2006 and it was so good to have a very busy Black Friday event. We didn’t have as many waiting at the door but still had a very strong event. Pete did a great job with the Alpine demo and our staff of 11 was very busy through the day and I stayed past 8 PM to take care of the last customer. The winner of the $2,500 raffle prize has a Nissan 350Z and we have ordered everything and have a January date to do the installation. We are already planning for Black Friday 2023” Rattu concluded.

See @audio_house on social media and audiohousenapa.com.