NEW YORK, NY (08.10.26) – SiriusXM announced that Jenny Tartikoff has been named Senior Vice President and Head of Communications, effective August 10, 2026. Tartikoff will report to President and Chief Content Officer Scott Greenstein and lead SiriusXM’s overall communications and public relations strategy and execution. She will be responsible for promoting the company’s content and business narrative while serving as a senior advisor to the company’s leadership team on major business developments and high-profile moments.

“Jenny is an accomplished communications leader with the judgment, range and industry experience to help SiriusXM tell a clear and compelling story, anchored around making SiriusXM the definitive home for audio content and fandom,” said Greenstein. “Jenny’s experience across entertainment, streaming, podcasting and advertising makes her the right leader to guide our communications into the next phase of SiriusXM’s strategy across our portfolio of audio businesses, and we’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

Tartikoff brings more than 20 years of communications experience across media, entertainment and technology. She most recently served as Executive Vice President, Global Communications at Paramount Pictures, where she led internal and external corporate communications, corporate social responsibility and awards strategy for the studio’s live-action and animation properties. During her tenure, Tartikoff guided the company’s communications through the industry’s post-pandemic recovery and the evolution of Paramount’s multi-platform release strategy.

“SiriusXM brings together an extraordinary mix of brands, platforms, talent and technology, with a unique ability to connect fans with the music, voices, stories and cultural moments they care about,” said Tartikoff. “As a longtime listener, I’ve experienced firsthand the thoughtful curation and authentic experiences SiriusXM creates, which makes joining the company especially meaningful. I’m excited to partner with the leadership team and communications organization to help shape and amplify the company’s story with purpose and impact.”

Before joining Paramount Pictures, Tartikoff was Head of Content & Advertising Communications at Spotify. Previously, she served as Senior Vice President, Global Communications at Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, where she led corporate communications across executive communications, talent relations, transition management and high-profile business matters.

Earlier, she was a Senior Vice President at Rubenstein, advising clients including Paramount Pictures, HBO, Sony, News Corporation and the New York Post on strategic communications, complex issues and high-profile announcements. She began her career in broadcast journalism communications, holding roles at NBC News, where she supported “Meet the Press”, “Dateline”, “Tom Brokaw Reports” and Peacock Productions, and at CBS News’ “The Early Show.”

For more about SiriusXM, please go to: https://www.siriusxm.com/

FRISCO, TX (08.07.26) – Morel is a new product line now available in CAR•TOYS stores in Texas.

“We are very excited that CAR•TOYS Texas had added the Morel brand to their product lineup. Soon they will unleash the music with Morel in their 12 Texas stores” David Toliver, Synergy Marketing, stated.

Continuing “The Frisco location received their first shipment on Tuesday and already product is being installed as team members upgrade the large display in the showroom. Over the next three months the plan is for all 12 stores to have upgraded displays plus along the way we will conduct training sessions and more. We are all very excited for this opportunity and long time partnership ahead” Toliver concluded.

For more see cartoystx.com and morelhifi.com.

DALLAS, TX (08.07.26) – A&W Distributors has been serving the 12volt industry across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana for well over 40 years. DB Drive is one of their major lines and now they have expanded the brand with XPERT Amplifiers, Subwoofers and Loudspeakers for the hot motorcycle audio category.

This week, a large order of XPERT Motorcycle Audio products arrived in the Dallas warehouse. The next day, the team gathered with the product and hosted a product session.

Maher Awad relayed “We’re very happy to expand our product offerings from DB Drive. The motorcycle category is obviously very hot and we’ve had a lot of requests from our dealers to expand our product line. Already dealers are placing orders.”

Dave Gill, SMS relayed “A&W Distributors has been a solid business partner for many years and we’re excited to move forward with motorcycle audio sales. The DB Drive brand offers a top quality product with many features that provides dealers for opportunities to drive profitable business.”

For more see awdistributors.com and dbdrive.net.

SCAPPOOSE, OR (08.06.26) – The 4th Annual Pro Automotive & Diesel Summer Car Show took place on Saturday August 1st at the Veteran’s Park.

“Bethany and I were at PAD Summer Car Show for the first time and had the Stereo King Jeep Gladiator Hot Wheels under our tent for all to check out. HWY 30 Cruisers was a host and the event featured classic cars, live music, a beer garden and local food vendors. Automotive accessories companies were also on site” Kevin Cornutt related.

Continuing “This is the type of community event we really like to attend as Stereo King. It brings together enthusiasts and communities. It rained like crazy mid-morning. The rain stopped in 30 minutes, we all dried off and got back to having fun.”

The Gladiator Hot Wheels was spotlighted under the tent and many climbed aboard for demos. Selfies too with family members by the 42” wheels. At event Stereo King handed out business cards and a special Event Pass card for in-store specials. Dash cams got a lot of interest from the crowd estimated at 400-500.

“This was our first time at the PAD Summer Show and we plan to return next year. To connect close to home with a few hundred members of the community is definitely a win” Kevin concluded.

For more see stereoking.com.

LA MIRADA, CA (08.06.26) – Beat-Sonic USA, the North American branch of Japan-based Beat-Sonic, today highlighted its growing portfolio of plug-and-play car audio and vehicle electronics engineered to upgrade modern vehicles without cutting a single factory wire. Serving the United States, Canada, and Mexico since 2007 from its headquarters in La Mirada, California, Beat-Sonic USA designs products in Japan for specific vehicle platforms so that every kit connects directly to the factory wiring harness using OEM-style connectors.

Because Beat-Sonic products integrate through the vehicle’s existing harness, there is no wire cutting, no permanent modification, and no dealer required. Factory features that owners rely on — including the backup camera, steering wheel controls, and the OEM screen — remain fully functional after installation. The approach lets drivers add the technology they want while preserving the integrity of the vehicle and its original equipment.

The company’s S-Connect line of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto interfaces adds CarPlay and Android Auto to a factory screen without replacing it across Toyota, Lexus, BMW, and Porsche models. The S-Connect interface is the only CarPlay and Android Auto solution approved by Lexus USA — a distinction that reflects the engineering standards behind the company’s factory-integration approach.

Beyond smartphone integration, Beat-Sonic USA produces plug-and-play upgrades spanning audio, performance, and camera systems. Its Encore Series Class AB amplifier kits enhance factory sound without replacing the head unit or speakers across Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, Subaru, and Mazda vehicles. The ShiftPower throttle response controller, with more than 3,000 vehicle applications, reduces accelerator lag across a wide range of makes including Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, Honda, Subaru, Chevrolet, Ford, RAM, Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes. The company’s camera solutions connect through OEM harnesses, with the newest and best-selling options being the CS15 front camera interface and the BCAM13 wide-angle front camera for 2022-and-newer Toyota trucks and SUVs.

The product range also includes stereo replacement kits, smartphone mirroring solutions for Toyota, Lexus, and Tesla, shark fin antennas, and dual wireless chargers for vehicles such as the Toyota Tundra and Sequoia. To support installation, Beat-Sonic USA publishes step-by-step videos for every product on its YouTube channel, and customers can choose professional installation at the company’s La Mirada facility or through a nationwide network of authorized installers.

Learn more at beatsonicusa.com.

TEMPE, AZ (08.05.26) – Mobile Solutions is once again raising the standard for automotive fabrication education with its Digital Design – Master Class, an immersive three-day, hands-on training experience designed to help fabricators, installers, custom builders, and shop owners confidently transition from traditional fabrication methods into today’s advanced digital design workflows.

Held Sept. 11-13 at Mobile Solutions HQ in Tempe, Ariz., the heart of this Master Class is an intensive Deep Dive into one of the most challenging and most valuable skills in modern fabrication: transforming a raw 3D scan into a clean, production-ready CAD model.

“Rather than simply watching demonstrations, students work side-by-side with industry-leading instructors through every stage of the process, absorbing proven workflows that eliminate guesswork, accelerate productivity, and dramatically shorten the learning curve,” said Bryan Schmitt, President of Mobile Solutions.

Through a comprehensive curriculum, students gain hands-on experience with today’s most advanced digital manufacturing technologies, including:

• 3D scanning
• Autodesk Fusion CAD modeling
• Parametric design strategies
• Complete Scan-to-CAD workflows
• Advanced surface and solid modeling
• Production-ready body creation
• 3D printing calibration, slicing, and optimization
• CNC routing and laser manufacturing strategies
• Modern automotive interior design methodologies
• CAD organization techniques for faster revisions and repeatable production

“For many professionals, converting scan data into an accurate CAD model is the single greatest obstacle to adopting digital fabrication,” Schmitt continued. “This Master Class breaks that barrier down through a structured, repeatable workflow that students can immediately implement in their own shops.”

Throughout the three-day experience, attendees follow a complete digital manufacturing workflow from concept and design to fabrication-ready production files. Each lesson builds upon the previous one, helping students understand not only the software, but the engineering mindset and design strategies behind professional digital fabrication.

Beyond the software, the Master Class also explores the principles that separate average designs from professional-level work. Students learn how proportion, balance, styling, engineering intent, and manufacturing strategy work together to produce parts that fit with OEM-level precision while maintaining exceptional aesthetics.

By the end of the Master Class, students will leave with:

• A completed take-home project
• A proven, repeatable digital design workflow
• Confidence using Autodesk Fusion
• A thorough understanding of Scan-to-CAD methodology
• Hands-on experience with modern manufacturing technologies
• Practical strategies to improve efficiency, consistency, and profitability

Whether you’re a fabricator, installer, custom interior builder, hot rod shop, car audio professional, or business owner looking to modernize your operation, the Digital Design Master Class provides the skills, confidence, and competitive advantage needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving automotive fabrication industry.

“Join us for three days of immersive, hands-on instruction and discover why the industry’s most successful builders are embracing digital workflows to deliver faster production, higher quality, and consistently better results,” Schmitt concluded.

Registration is now open at www.mobile-solutions-usa.com.

Last year’s scholarship winners were honored at the 2025 SEMA Show.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.05.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) announced the winners of the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, which helps students pursuing automotive-related careers pay for college tuition and helps employees of SEMA member companies pay off student loans. This year, SEMA awarded a combined total of $100,000 in scholarship and loan forgiveness awards to 50 individuals.

The SEMA scholarship and loan forgiveness programs help foster the next generation of automotive industry leaders by supporting students and recent graduates as they begin their education and careers.

“We were impressed by the knowledge and passion for the industry that shined through the applications of this year’s winners,” said SEMA Project Manager of Recognition Programs Joe Escobar. “By selecting 50 winners, we are supporting 50 careers that will have a positive impact on the future of the automotive aftermarket, and we couldn’t be prouder of the people we’ve selected to chart the course.”

More than $3 million has been awarded to deserving students since the program’s establishment in 1984. Online applications for next year’s awards will open Jan. 1, 2027, at www.sema.org/scholarships.

SEMA Scholarship Award Winners
Recipient (Institution, Major) – Award Designation (if applicable)

• Mark A. Alvarez (Pitt Community College, Automation Technology)
• Jayden Amos (University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, Mechanical Engineering) – FLN Award
• Aaron H. Bastian (Old Dominion University, Mechanical Engineering Technology) – Wally Parks Award
• John Bedell (University of Texas at Austin, Aerospace Aeronautical)
• Drake B. Bellessa (Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Electrical Engineering) – ETTN Award
• Farrah Berry (Stanford University, Mechanical Engineering)
• Maxwell W. Caldwell (Pittsburg State University, Career & Technical Education)
• Christopher P. Choquette (Grand Canyon University, Business)
• Danika M. Cox (Michigan Technological University, Mechanical Engineering) – Trudy Thompson Award
• Clancy J. Cummings (McPherson College, Automotive Technology) – HRIA Award
• Avery H. Driscoll (Colorado School of Mines, Materials Engineering) – Jim A. Borre Award
• Jack Freeman (University at Buffalo, Mechanical Engineering) – Chris Raschke Award
• Evan A. Grossardt (WyoTech, Autobody Collision) – TORA Award
• Ethan Hammontree (Southern Methodist University, Business)
• William B. Herman (University of Notre Dame, Mechanical Engineering)
• Luke M. Higginbotham (Auburn University, Mechanical Engineering) – Steve Woomer Award
• Ryan M. Hoff (Florida State College at Jacksonville, Engineering)
• Jadyn Jessen (University of Central Florida, Mechanical Engineering)
• Evan C. Jezek (Pennsylvania College of Technology, Welding) – Joseph B. Amato, Sr. Award
• Braydon M. Kennedy (Anderson University, Mechanical Engineering)
• Jordan Lei (University of Waterloo, Computer Engineering)
• Maxwell A. Mamishev (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Electrical Engineering)
• Cristian B. Martins (McPherson College, Automotive Technology) – ARMO Award
• John B. Morris (McPherson College, Automotive Restoration)
• William O. Nollette (South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Mechanical Engineering) – WTSBC Award
• Thomas Olayvar (Los Angeles Pierce College, Automotive Technology) – PRO Award
• Cole Paradis (University of Northwestern Ohio, Automation Technology) – Mike Kunzman Award
• Julia M. Pieri (Florida State University, Accounting)
• Camden G. Rassel (University of Northwestern Ohio, Automotive Technician) – Melvin Burton Award
• Katarina Schafer (Mohawk College, Mechanical Engineering Technology) – SBN Award
• Elle E. Scranton (California State University-Fullerton, Business, Management) – Leo Kagan Award
• Cameron J. Seals (University of Maryland Global Campus, Automotive Technology)
• Samantha Septer (Belmont Abbey College, Writing, Rhetoric, and Digital Studies)
• Atticus Temple (McPherson College, Automotive Technology)
• Cameron T. Tolbert (Heartland Community College, Automotive Technician) – Dave Killackey Award
• Isabel S. Tuman (Weber State University, Automotive Technology) – Nat Danas Award
• Ethan F. Watrous (University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Automotive Engineering and Technology) – Joe Hrudka Award
• Shaun T. Weaver (Purdue University-Main Campus, Motorsports Engineering) – Dan Borré Award
• Grant T. Wilson (Ohio State University-Main Campus, Chemical Engineering) – Harlan Felder Award
• Isaac SK Yong (Purdue University-Main Campus, Mechanical Engineering)

SEMA Loan Forgiveness Award Winners
Recipient (Employer, Institution, Major)

• Elizabeth Busniewski (MagnaFlow, Northwood University, Automotive Aftermarket)
• Leslie P. Fitch (Coats Company, Mid-Continent University, Business, Management)
• Kristi Fogwell (AMS OSRAM Sylvania, University of New Hampshire-Main Campus, Marketing)
• Austin M. Holland (King Shocks, California State Polytechnic University-Pomona, Mechanical Engineering)
• Dallas Johannes (ALP USA – SoffSeal, University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, Data Analysis)
• Teresa Lang (Stellantis, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Engineering)
• Jordan Mosher (Diode Dynamics, Lindenwood University, Advertising & Strategic Communications)
• Hailey J. Petsch (Honda, Arizona State University Campus Immersion, Mechanical Engineering)
• Michael L. Sanata (JEGS High Performance, Kent State University at Kent, Fine Arts)
• Carly E. Truhler (Motor State Distributing – Lane Automotive Inc., Indiana University-Bloomington, Business)

For more information, visit www.sema.org.

HAMILTON, OH (08.04.26) – Dynamat, the industry leader in premium sound deadening materials and thermo- acoustic insulation, today announced it has earned the official “Trusted by RFK Racing” designation following the adoption of the Dynamat Brand as a core component of RFK Racings crash repair kits used on race day. RFK Racing, one of the most storied and competitive NASCAR teams, selected Dynamat for its unmatched performance under extreme conditions — the same conditions that define every lap at the highest levels of motorsport. When seconds matter and a car needs to return to the track fast, RFK Racing’s crew relies on Dynamat to get the job done right.

“Being trusted by a team that competes at the pinnacle of the sport is the ultimate real-world validation,” said Scott Monnin, Owner and President at Dynamat. “RFK Racing demands products that perform without compromise. The fact that Dynamat is in their crash repair kit — on race day — speaks for itself.” Built for the Demands of Motorsport.

Dynamat is engineered to deliver exceptional adhesion, vibration damping, and structural integrity in high-heat, high- stress environments. Its inclusion in RFK Racing’s race-day repair protocol reflects the product’s ability to meet the rigorous standards of professional motorsport, where failure is not an option.

Key performance attributes that earned RFK Racing’s trust include:  Fast-bonding formulation — critical for rapid pit-lane repairs under race-day time pressure  Structural integrity — maintains bond strength under vibration, impact, and mechanical stress  Extreme temperature resistance — performs reliably in the intense thermal environment of a race car  Proven in competition — validated at motorsport’s highest level of competition.

The Dynamat Legacy in Performance For decades, Dynamat has been the go-to choice for automotive enthusiasts, professional builders, and now elite racing teams who demand the best in sound deadening, structural vibration and bonding technology. The “Trusted By RFK Racing” designation reinforces Dynamat’s position not just as a consumer brand, but as a performance-grade solution proven in the most demanding motorsport environments in the world. Dynamat products are available through Dynamat’s authorized dealer network and at dynamat.com.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.04.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has announced that Brian Pagel has joined the organization’s executive leadership team as Chief Revenue Officer, a strategic role focused on strengthening SEMA’s ability to serve its members, support industry growth, and advance the association’s long-term mission.

In this role, Pagel will work closely with SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola, the Board of Directors, and the executive leadership team to align business strategy with mission delivery, operational excellence, and long-term organizational sustainability. His responsibilities include supporting SEMA’s marketing, sales, membership, events, and revenue management functions, while helping ensure the association continues to invest in programs, services, and initiatives that benefit members and the broader specialty-equipment industry.

“Brian brings the experience, industry knowledge, and strategic mindset needed to help SEMA deliver even greater value to our members and the broader specialty-equipment community,” said Spagnola. “As a nonprofit association, our focus is on reinvesting in programs, advocacy, events, research, education, and services that help our industry succeed. Brian’s leadership will help ensure we are building the resources, partnerships, and opportunities needed to support our members today and into the future.”

Pagel brings extensive experience leading business development, strategic partnerships, events, media brands, and growth initiatives across the trade association and B2B event sectors. Most recently, he served as Executive Vice President at Emerald, where he was responsible for business development tied to strategic association partnerships, new acquisition opportunities, and the management of a portfolio of 64 B2B trade shows, hosted buyer events, conferences, and companion assets. In that role, he managed a 200-person portfolio with 10 direct reports and $130 million in P&L responsibility, while driving sustained improvements in portfolio performance, including double-digit EBITDA growth in three of the past four years.

“I’m honored to join SEMA and support its work on behalf of the specialty-equipment industry,” said Pagel. “SEMA has a powerful mission, a passionate membership, and an important role in helping businesses innovate, grow, and succeed. I look forward to working with Mike, the Board, and teams across the association to strengthen member value, build meaningful partnerships, and ensure SEMA continues investing in programs and opportunities that move the industry forward.”

Pagel will help develop and implement a multi-year strategy aligned with SEMA’s organizational goals, establish performance metrics, support membership growth and retention, and work with department leaders on planning, goal development, and operational priorities. He will also help align member engagement and business-development efforts with SEMA’s marketing, communications, and brand positioning.

The appointment reflects SEMA’s continued commitment to strengthening its leadership team and ensuring the association is positioned to meet the evolving needs of its members and the industry. Pagel will report to Spagnola and serve as a key member of SEMA’s senior leadership team.

For more information, visit www.sema.org.

DIAMOND BAR, CA (08.03.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), producers of the SEMA Show, today announced the musical lineup for SEMA Fest, taking place Friday, Nov. 6, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Headlined by multi-platinum punk rock icons The Offspring, the lineup also features anthemic alt-rockers Jimmy Eat World, genre-blending rock reggae outfit 311, and California rock band The Alive. Together these chart-topping, arena-caliber acts will bring their catalog of massive hits to SEMA Fest, delivering the ultimate intersection of high-octane and high-decibels, a one-day celebration of the long-standing bond between music and car culture that closes out SEMA Week with an unforgettable public experience.

Early bird pre-sale tickets are available July 15, with the general on-sale kicking off this Friday, July 17, at 10 am PT via www.semafest.com. General admission and VIP concert access tickets are available, as are combined tickets, offering entry to both SEMA Fest and SEMA Show Friday public access. This exclusive bundle gives automotive enthusiasts rare access to the world’s largest automotive aftermarket trade event – typically reserved for industry insiders – alongside performances from some of today’s biggest bands.

“SEMA Fest represents where our industry is headed, at the crossroads of innovation, lifestyle, and cultural relevance,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “By bringing together the world’s premier automotive gathering with iconic music, immersive automotive experiences, and enthusiast access, we are creating a powerful platform that expands the reach of car culture, strengthens engagement with new audiences, and sends SEMA Week out on a high-energy, high-impact note.”

SEMA Fest serves as the official “closing ceremony” of SEMA Week, transforming the world’s premier automotive trade show into a massive public celebration and extending the energy of the SEMA Show into a day-long experience.

The day begins inside the Las Vegas Convention Center, where attendees can explore the SEMA Show floor, including 2,000-plus exhibiting brands and vendors, thousands of custom builds, and the latest in automotive products and technology.

As the day continues, the action moves outdoors for the legendary SEMA Cruise and high-intensity motorsports demonstrations that keep the excitement building throughout the afternoon.

Then, as the sun sets, attention turns to the SEMA Fest Stage, where live music and automotive adrenaline come together in one immersive environment. The automotive excitement continues into the evening with featured vehicle displays and motorsports performances that keep car culture front and center through the final encore.

2026 Musical Lineup
Multi-platinum punk rock icons The Offspring bring decades of Southern California punk-rock energy to SEMA Fest. Formed in Garden Grove in 1984, the band is known for their generation-defining hits such as “Self Esteem,” “Come Out and Play,” “The Kids Aren’t Alright,” and “Pretty Fly (For a White Guy).” Widely credited with helping revive mainstream interest in punk rock during the 1990s, The Offspring has sold more than 45 million records worldwide.

Jimmy Eat World adds its signature anthemic alternative-rock sound to the lineup. The band broke through globally with “The Middle,” which reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Modern Rock Tracks chart and became one of the defining rock songs of the early 2000s.

311 brings its unmistakable blend of rock, reggae, funk, and hip-hop influences to the main stage. The band has released 14 studio albums, sold more than 10 million records in the United States, and remains known for crowd favorites such as “Down,” “Amber,” and “All Mixed Up.”

The Alive rounds out the bill with a fresh California rock sound rooted in surf, skate, and hard-driving live performance. The band cites influences including Black Sabbath, Nirvana, Rush, and Queens of the Stone Age, making them a fitting addition to a lineup built on energy, edge, and attitude.

Featured Experiences
The evening’s adrenaline will be amplified by world-class automotive demos, including drifting demonstrations from OPTIMA and the high-energy Globe of Death.

Supercar Saturdays Florida returns to SEMA Fest with a curated showcase of rare hypercars and exotic vehicles following its debut SEMA Fest appearance in 2025, where it presented an exclusive hypercar and supercar display.

For the latest updates, follow @SEMAFestOfficial on social media or visit www.semafest.com.