Who We Are

The non-profit Midwest Automotive Media Association  (MAMA) was formed in the fall of 1991 bringing together journalists and public relations professionals involved in the automotive industry. Our membership has grown to more than 250 and includes print and broadcast journalists, and media relations professionals who support the automotive cause. Members also are engineers, old car buffs and/or racing enthusiasts. While many members are based and reside in the Chicago area, MAMA welcomes supporters from all parts of the country.

Full membership ($65) is open to journalists who cover the auto industry. Associate membership ($115) is open to media relations people working in the automotive field.

What We Do

MAMA's primary purpose is to provide a forum in the Chicago area for newsworthy people, major issues, and new products in the auto industry. MAMA holds eight to ten luncheon programs per year featuring guest speakers from car companies and other major newsmakers in the auto industry. More than 250 people attend the annual  Auto Show Press Preview Breakfast, kicking off events at the February Chicago Auto Show. This event is co-sponsored by MAMA and the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, sponsor of the show.

MAMA's claim to fame over the years has been hosting the Spring Collection Road Rally, held at Road America Raceway in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin.  Nestled along rolling hills and farm land of central Wisconsin, this world-famous track provides journalists the chance to sample high-octane performance vehicles from every major automobile company doing business in the United States.  A nearby road course sets the stage for testing cars in real world conditions.  Top newsmakers also attend this two-day event to share breaking information and display future offerings.

At summer's end, MAMA collects everyone together once more for the one-day Fall Road Rally.  Held at rotating locations in the Chicago area, this event provides an early jump on upcoming model year offerings.

If you are interested in joining MAMA or would like to suggest a speaker or other program ideas, please contact one of the officers listed below. We'd be glad to tell you more about our organization.

MAMA Officers (2009):

Jim Jackson, President
Tom Appel, Senior VP and Program Chairperson
Jennifer Geiger, VP, Membership
Dave Boe, Treasurer
Wendy Orthman, Secretary

 

MAMA Contact Information:

All Correspondence should be directed to Tom Appel at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it