May 18, 2025
Car Culture
Inventors Hall of Fame Honors Snowmobile Pioneer
Staff Writer
February 29, 2024
A snowmobile innovator will receive a posthumous award along with other innovation pioneers whose inventions range from cancer treatments to theatrical technologies and special effects as part of the 2024 class of National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees. The class was announced in January at the Walt Disney Imagineering campus in Glendale, Calif.
The late Joseph-Armand Bombardier invented the Ski-Doo snowmobile. The first mass-produced snow machine, it set industry standards and launched snowmobiling as a sport and recreational activity.
In partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), the Hall of Fame will honor Inductees on May 9 at one of the innovation industry’s most highly anticipated events — “The Greatest Celebration of American Innovation.”
“Every year, I am impressed and inspired by the accomplishments of the newest Inductees in the National Inventors Hall of Fame,” said Kathi Vidal, Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO. “We are proud to honor these world-changing inventors in the class of 2024, who show us the power of turning ideas into realities and participating in our intellectual property system to make a positive impact on our society and our future.”
RumbleOn Appoints New Exec
Staff Writer
February 26, 2024
Brandy Treadway is the new senior vice president and chief legal officer at RumbleOn, the country’s largest retailer of powersports vehicles. Treadway brings over two decades of legal expertise, including executive positions at J.C. Penney Company and as a partner at Martin Powers & Counsel, PLLC. Treadway will lead RumbleOn’s legal and human resources functions.
“We are thrilled to welcome Brandy to RumbleOn,” said Mike Kennedy, CEO of RumbleOn. “Her unique set of skills and her legal and HR background make her a great fit for our leadership team. I’m happy to have her support as we grow and transform the company.”
Treadway holds a Juris Doctor from SMU Dedman School of Law, graduating magna cum laude and being inducted into the Order of the Coif, an honor society for law school graduates. She also holds two BA degrees from the University of Virginia.
“I am honored to join RumbleOn during this exciting phase of growth and innovation,” said Treadway. “RumbleOn is a trailblazer in the powersports industry, and I can’t wait to help this organization drive forward with the strategic initiatives that Mike has laid out for us.”
Treadway will be based at RumbleOn’s headquarters in Dallas, Texas. She started in her role on Feb. 12.
Northwood University Honors ‘20 Under 40’
Staff Writer
February 21, 2024
Established last year, the 20 Under 40 program recognizes NU alumni who are ambitious professionals doing great things in their careers, organizations, or communities. Northwood University is pleased the announce the 2024 Class of 20 Under 40 honorees.
“Last year’s inaugural 20 Under 40 event was a phenomenal success in terms of alumni engagement and participation, and most importantly, in recognizing the impact NU alumni are making locally and around the world,” stated Julie Adamczyk, senior alumni and engagement officer. “This year, we received more than 230 nominations. This is a testament of how many alumni are deserving of this recognition — narrowing it down to 20 was a difficult job!”
The 2024 Class of 20 Under 40 includes the following individuals along with their town of residence (located within Michigan unless otherwise noted); graduation year; and current professional roles:
- Nick Andres of Atlanta, Georgia, 2019, MBA 2020, strategic planning senior analyst – electric vehicles, Cox Automotive
- Yan Bowers, of Okemos, 2012, senior manager, Plante Moran
- Ethan Bregger, of New Boston, 2011, MBA 2017, sales manager – retail, Tenneco, Inc.
- Jackie Brooks, of Denver, Colorado, 2006, CEO, Loudr
- Corey Ferris, of Midland, 2006, director of asset management, Hantz Financial Services Inc.
- Lane Fortinberry, of Clarkston, 2008, founder/owner, Formatic Digital
- Lauren Griewski, of Cornwall, N.Y., 2007, senior vice president of strategic partnerships and global agencies, Rokt
- Andrew Hanagan, of Oak Park, 2015, realtor, Good Company Realty
- Tony Johnson, of Valrico, Fla,, 2015, MBA 2016, director of operations, Domino’s
- Nathan Lindstrom, of Odenton, Md,, 2008, director – dealer policy, Toyota Motor North America
- Paul Mersino, of Canton, 2005, president/CEO, Butzel
- Jake Riepma, of Dallas, Texas, 2015, on-air host, Chat Sports
- Bryce Rucker, of Ferndale, 2009, attorney and business advisor
- Nathan Schick, of Birmingham, 2023, general sales manager and marketing manager, Auto Europe Inc.
- Autumn Schwalbe, of Ypsilanti, 2020, performance parts product specialist and planner, Ford Motor Company
- Ann Marie Taepke, of Apex, N.C., 2007, chief marketing officer, Holderness Family Productions
- DeAnte Thompkins, of Troy, 2010, market director, Thrivent
- Tray Thompson, of Arlington, Texas, 2016, manager – corporate social responsibility, Dallas Mavericks
- Kristi Wagner, of Brooklyn, N.Y., 2006, director – partnership activation, Major League Baseball
- David Wilson, of Preston, Md., 2008, president/CEO Preston Automotive Group
“From the automotive industry to professional sports organizations, this year’s class features an incredible community of entrepreneurial leaders who are driving economic and social progress in their local communities and around the U.S. and world,” Adamczyk noted.
This year’s class will be honored during a reception at 7 p.m. April 5 at the Atheneum Suites Hotel International Banquet and Conference Center in Detroit.
Motorsports Hall of Fame of America Sets Induction Celebration for March
Staff Writer
February 14, 2024
The last two editions of the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America’s annual Induction Celebration have sold out but it is not too late to purchase tickets for next month’s two-day 36th MSHFA Induction, March 11-12, in Daytona Beach. A limited number of tickets remain for both the Tuesday evening black-tie Induction Ceremony at the Shores Resort & Spa and Monday’s PNC Bank Heroes of Horsepower reception at the MSHFA Museum. Both events were complete sellouts in 2022 and 2023. Toyota is a main sponsor. Ticket purchases for this year’s MSHFA Induction events can be made at www.MSHF.com.
The MSHFA’s Class of 2024 is a constellation of past and present motorsports stars and includes Austin Coil (Drag Racing), Scott Dixon (Open Wheel), Earl B. Gilmore (Historic), Jim Downing & Dr. Robert Hubbard (Technology), Bud Ekins (Motorcycles), Jimmie Johnson (Stock Cars), Paul Newman (At Large), John Surtees (Sports Cars) and Phil Walters, aka “Ted Tappett” (Historic).
Tuesday’s gala features the formal presentation of this year’s induction class into the Hall of Fame of ALL motorsports while Monday’s “HoH” reception is the chance for induction attendees to see the MSHFA Museum on the grounds of Daytona International Speedway (DIS) in a strolling dinner throughout the attraction. The evening ends with the unveiling of the handmade bronze induction plaques for each honoree that will be permanently placed in the Hall.
A third must-attend event on next month’s two-day schedule is Tuesday’s Inductee Brunch presented by Honda, which will be held at the 500 Club in the infield of DIS overlooking the start/finish line of the landmark tri-oval. The highlight of the brunch is the formal induction of each year’s Historic inductees, which in 2024 includes Gilmore and Walters.
Another longtime and dedicated partner of the MSHFA is Firestone, which in 2024 provides sponsorship for the Induction Celebration Welcome Lunch on Monday at The Shores. The Firestone luncheon is for returning inductees and each year’s incoming inductees and their families and presenters to become familiar with the following days formal induction procedures.
Job Openings, Separations Flat in December
Staff Writer
February 01, 2024
The number of job openings changed little at 9.0 million on the last business day of December, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. Over the month, the number of hires and total separations were little changed at 5.6 million and 5.4 million, respectively. Within separations, quits (3.4 million) and layoffs and discharges (1.6 million) changed little. This release includes estimates of the number and rate of job openings, hires, and separations for the total nonfarm sector, by industry, and by establishment size class.
On the last business day of December, the number of job openings changed little at 9.0 million; this measure is down from a series high of 12.0 million in March 2022. Over the month, the rate was unchanged at 5.4%. Job openings increased in professional and business services (+239,000) but decreased in wholesale trade (-83,000).
In December, the number and rate of hires were little changed at 5.6 million and 3.6%, respectively. The number of hires decreased in health care and social assistance (-119,000) but increased in state and local government, excluding education (+35,000).
Total separations include quits, layoffs and discharges, and other separations. Quits are generally voluntary separations initiated by the employee. The quits rate can serve as a measure of workers’ willingness or ability to leave jobs. Layoffs and discharges are involuntary separations initiated by the employer. Other separations include separations due to retirement, death, disability, and transfers to other locations of the same firm.
The number of total separations in December changed little at 5.4 million, and the rate was unchanged at 3.4%. Over the month, the number of total separations decreased in health care and social assistance (-91,000) but increased in wholesale trade (+39,000).
Musclepalooza Marks Hemmings’ 70th Anniversary
Staff Writer
January 22, 2024
The Reading, Pennsylvania area is gearing up to host the first stop of Hemmings’ 70th anniversary of Musclepalooza.
“America’s Celebration of Vintage and Modern Muscle Cars” will hit Maple Grove Raceway in Mohnton on Saturday, April 13, kicking off this unparalleled series that entertains collector car enthusiasts, muscle car fans, drag racers and families looking for an exciting day at the track. Participants and spectators alike will experience top-speed drag racing, professionally judged car shows and so much more!
Musclepalooza has expanded to four events this year, with additional stops planned for the spring, summer and fall in Ohio, the Southwest (TBA), and Florida. “Musclepalooza has been a highly anticipated event for owners of muscle and performance cars since 2004 and we look forward to the growth of these great events as part of our 70th anniversary celebration,” said Jonathan Shaw, president of Hemmings. Since 2004, Musclepalooza has hosted thousands of collector car enthusiasts, builders and families.
The show is open to vintage + modern muscle cars, muscle trucks, hot rods and drag cars. Regional car clubs are welcome and encouraged to join. Musclepalooza features multiple classes of drag racing with payouts and judging in numerous categories with awards. A complete daily schedule will be available before each Musclepalooza event. Those interested in participating in drag racing and car shows are encouraged to check the event’s website for registration information.
Motorcar Parts of America Announces Promotion
Staff Writer
January 20, 2024
Jamie Cook has been promoted to senior vice president of sales and marketing at Motorcar Parts of America, effective immediately -- succeeding Rick Mochulsky who will transition to a new role as senior vice president of business development.
Cook, 54, has served as vice president of retail sales since 2012. She joined Motorcar Parts of America in 2007 as national sales manager and has been involved in the automotive aftermarket industry since 1993. Cook is a member of the Automotive Sales Council, an industry trade organization dedicated to the exchange of ideas and issues impacting the automotive aftermarket industry. She also currently serves as a member of Women in Auto Care, an organization dedicated to engaging and educating women for industry careers and has participated in numerous other industry associations throughout her career.
“We appreciate Rick’s considerable contributions to the company during his 19-year tenure with our organization,” said Selwyn Joffe, chairman, president and chief executive. “He is an industry veteran and has been an important mentor to the entire sales and marketing team. We look forward to continuing to benefit from his industry knowledge and customer-centric focus as he transitions to his new role.
“Jamie is well-respected by our automotive aftermarket retail and professional market customers. She is a dedicated professional and committed to the company’s strategic growth and competitive industry position. We know her dedication and commitment to excellence will continue on a daily basis, and we look forward to ongoing success for her and the entire organization.”
Inflation Creeps Up in December
Staff Writer
January 14, 2024
The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers increased 0.3% in December on a seasonally adjusted basis, after rising 0.1% in November, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Jan. 11. Over the last 12 months, the all-items index increased 3.4% before seasonal adjustment.
The index for shelter continued to rise in December, contributing over half of the monthly all-items increase. The energy index rose 0.4% over the month as increases in the electricity index and the gasoline index more than offset a decrease in the natural gas index. The food index increased 0.2% in December, as it did in November. The index for food at home increased 0.1% over the month and the index for food away from home rose 0.3%.
The index for all items less food and energy rose 0.3% in December, the same monthly increase in November. Indexes which increased in December include shelter, motor vehicle insurance, and medical care. The index for household furnishings and operations and the index for personal care were among those that decreased over the month.
HOT ROD Power Tour Returns
Staff Writer
January 14, 2024
Celebrating its 30th year, the legendary HOT ROD Power Tour is gearing up to hit five venues across the Southeast and Midwest June 10-14, including a first-time stop at National Trail Raceway in Hebron, Ohio and L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium in Louisville, Ky.
As America’s largest traveling car show, more than 6,000 cars and trucks of all makes and models will be on display. The tour will feature over 1,000 miles of driving, with high-octane events such as drag racing, autocross and live entertainment. Register now at hotrodpowertour.us!
HOT ROD POWER TOUR SCHEDULE:
- KICKOFF / Day 1: Monday, June 10 – Beech Bend Raceway Park, Bowling Green, Ky.
- Day 2: Tuesday, June 11 – Nashville Superspeedway, Lebanon, Tenn.
- Day 3: Wednesday, June 12 – L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, Louisville, Ky.
- Day 4: Thursday, June 13 – National Trail Raceway, Hebron, Ohio
- Day 5: Friday, June 14 – Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, Indianapolis
This year’s Power Tour marks the start of a new era for HOT ROD, a brand that recently celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023.
Unemployment Claims Rise Slightly
Staff Writer
December 30, 2023
In the week ending Dec. 23, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 218,000, an increase of 12,000 from the previous week’s revised level. The previous week’s level was revised up by 1,000 from 205,000 to 206,000. The 4-week moving average was 212,000, a decrease of 250 from the previous week’s revised average. The previous week’s average was revised up by 250 from 212,000 to 212,250. The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 1.3 percent for the week ending Dec. 16, an increase of 0.1 percentage point from the previous week’s revised rate. The previous week’s rate was revised down by 0.1 from 1.3 to 1.2 percent. The advance number for seasonally adjusted insured unemployment during the week ending Dec. 16 was 1,875,000, an increase of 14,000 from the previous week’s revised level. The previous week’s level was revised down by 4,000 from 1,865,000 to 1,861,000. The 4-week moving average was 1,864,500, a decrease of 12,500 from the previous week’s revised average. The previous week’s average was revised down by 1,000 from 1,878,000 to 1,877,000.
More...
NBA Venue Renamed Kia Center
Staff Writer
December 21, 2023
Orlando’s downtown sports and entertainment destination – and home of the National Basketball Association’s Orlando Magic – was renamed the Kia Center.
Starting Dec. 20, the Amway Center took on the new name. Kia America’s partnership will include new indoor and outdoor signage, the installations of EV charging stations, Kia vehicle displays and the Kia Terrace, a hospitality lounge for the enjoyment of automotive enthusiasts and sports and music fans.
“The Orlando Magic and Kia America have been proud partners for several years and we share in the excitement of Kia’s success and growth,” said Magic CEO Alex Martins. “We look forward to our expanded partnership which allows Kia to drive its brand forward and deliver a direct, impactful message to our fan base and beyond using the power of the NBA.”
Sean Yoon, president and CEO, Kia America, added, “The naming of the Kia Center is another example of the strength of our partnership and provides us a year-round sports and entertainment platform for our fans. This facility is a spectacular asset for those who call Central Florida home and for those who visit this global tourist destination. Coupled with our naming rights of the Kia Forum in California, we now stretch from coast to coast.”
In Memoriam: Columbus “Clo” Angelicchio
Staff Writer
December 20, 2023
Columbus “Clo” Angelicchio, 95, of Greensburg, PA, died Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born Oct. 7, 1928, in Altoona, Pa., a son of the late Onofrio and Domenica (Colini) Angelicchio.
Clo was the founder of D-A Auto Auction in New Stanton, Pa., a NAAA Pioneer recipient, President Emeritus of the NAAA Eastern Chapter, and a supporting member of the NAAA. He was a member of Our Lady of Grace Church, Greensburg, the Elks Club, and Pleasant
Valley Country Club.
In addition to his parents, Clo was preceded in death by his wife, Antoinette “Dolly” Angelicchio; a grandson, Bryan Paul Angelicchio; his brother, Marino Angelicchio; and his sister, Margaret Bucciarelli.
He is survived by his children; grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; his sister, Theresa Ereditario; several nieces and nephews; and his long-term companion, Veronica Martin. According to Clo’s wishes, there was no viewing, and all services were private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Breast Cancer Foundation or UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. www.bachafh.com.
Jobless Claims Rise
Staff Writer
December 09, 2023
In the week ending Dec. 2, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 220,000, an increase of 1,000 from the previous week’s revised level.
The previous week’s level was revised up by 1,000 from 218,000 to 219,000. The 4-week moving average was 220,750, an increase of 500 from the previous week’s revised average. The previous week’s average was revised up by 250 from 220,000 to 220,250. The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 1.2 percent for the week ending Nov. 25, a decrease of 0.1 percentage point from the previous week’s unrevised rate. The advance number for seasonally adjusted insured unemployment during the week ending Nov. 25 was 1,861,000, a decrease of 64,000 from the previous week’s revised level. The previous week’s level was revised down by 2,000 from 1,927,000 to 1,925,000. The 4-week moving average was 1,872,250, an increase of 7,000 from the previous week’s revised average. This is the highest level for this average since Dec. 11, 2021, when it was 1,888,250. The previous week’s average was revised down by 500 from 1,865,750 to 1,865,250.
Polaris Wins ‘Digital Leadership’ Award
Staff Writer
November 28, 2023
Polaris, a provider of powersports vehicles, today was named a winner of the 16th Annual Digital Leadership Awards by Ventana Research in the Office of Finance category for its work with OneStream Software. The Digital Leadership Awards recognize individuals and companies that have embraced the use of technology to help them lead their businesses and optimize readiness across their people, processes, information and technology to grow their impact and industry potential.
The Corporate Finance team at Polaris is recognized for their leading and innovative use of applications and technologies to improve insights, enhance decision-making, and improve processes and productivity within the Office of Finance.
Melanie Hermann, director, finance processes & systems at Polaris, led the initiative which leveraged OneStream’s Intelligent Finance Platform and Sensible Machine Learning (ML) solution to transform the company’s forecasting and planning processes. Polaris leveraged Sensible ML to examine six years of weekly unit sales across 181 products. The ML service cross-correlated those demand models with commodity prices and events – such as holiday promotions – and generated over 2,800 models for comparison. The OneStream ML models proved to be the most efficient, providing increased insights and incorporating historic data.
