From the Editor's Desk 

Hi, there — 

I hope all of you are enjoying the holiday season and the end of 2016 and are looking forward to 2017. I know I am. I'm going to keep it brief this month, but I do want to mention that you only have a few days to register for the banquet if you haven't already. We increased the number of online RSVPs to 110 and we've already got 98, so make sure to register if you haven't already! Details are below. 

As you may know, we held elections for the 2017 board at the November meeting and we had several changes this year. Those details are below as well, but I want to take a minute to thank both Steve Limbert, our current RE, and director Charlie Demmy for their years of service on the board. I know I speak for the membership when I say your dedication to keeping this region running has not gone unnoticed. 

Happy New Year, everyone!

Until next time — Kristen Poole
Assistant Regional Executive & Editor, The Squeal

December Regional Meeting

There is no December Regional Meeting. Regular meetings resume in January.

2016 Executive Officers Announced

At the November membership meeting, Susquehanna Region members elected its 2016 executive officers. They will assume their posts after the general membership meeting at the banquet. They are as follows:

Regional Executive: Kristen Poole
Assistant RE: Doug Austin
Treasurer: Alan Lesher
Secretary: Brian Holmes
3-year Director: Bryan Roper
2-year Director: Geoff Craig
1-year Director: Markus Houser (assuming Charlie Demmy's position)

LAST CHANCE: Register for the Banquet!

Reservations close at 11:00pm on January 1, 2017.

Come out and help us celebrate the success of our 2016 Foster's Automotive Autocross Series and our Rallycross events. The Susquehanna Region of the Sports Car Club of America will present its recognition awards as well as its series of competition awards at this banquet.  

Continental Purchases Hoosier Racing Tire Corp.

Fort Mill, SC., October 4, 2016 — The international technology company Continental today announced the acquisition of Lakeville, IN-based Hoosier Racing Tire Corp., a manufacturer of specialty tires for racing applications.

“This acquisition showcases the consequent execution of our long-term growth strategy Vision 2025, characterized by strategic planning and systematic implementation of technological progress. The acquisition of Hoosier Racing Tire is an exciting next addition to our product portfolio and will support our growth strategy, especially in the ultra high performance segment,” said Nikolai Setzer, Executive Board Member for Continental’s tire business.

Dr. Jochen Etzel, CEO of Continental Tire the Americas, LLC (CTA) added, “Hoosier’s management team has built an impressive business. We believe Hoosier Tire is well-positioned to continue its strong growth, and we look forward to supporting that development through our complementary knowledge and extensive footprint. Hoosier’s management team will continue to run the racing tire business. We are committed to the employees, and the communities in which Hoosier operates. We look forward to the future of working together to accelerate growth.” 

Hoosier was founded in 1957 and has a legacy of technical product knowledge, quality manufacturing, outstanding service and consistent performance. Hoosier supplies tires for most racing applications throughout the world, with an emphasis on high performance and quality. The company currently employs nearly 500 people.

Joyce Newton, Hoosier’s president and CEO said, “Continental and Hoosier share a similar vision for continued growth and sales excellence. Hoosier has fantastic brand recognition, a high-performing team, established customer relationships and a great lineup of products. This acquisition will provide a stronger and more sustainable organization for Hoosier moving ahead.”

Continental and Hoosier have worked together over the past several years on a variety of technical and motorsports projects. Continental is constantly looking to add talent to its team. The transaction will create significant opportunities for the employees of Hoosier and CTA.

PHA Releases 2017 Schedule

Pennsylvania Hillclimb Association has released its 2017 schedule. The PHA 2017 Annual Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, January 21 at Canal Street Pub (535 Canal St.) in Reading, PA. Lunch is at noon with the meeting beginning at 1:00pm. The full 2017 schedule can be found using the link below.