Briefs: USM cracks Texas market in June, acquires CKM in July

ST. LOUIS - United Seating and Mobility (USM) announced June 30 that it has finalized a deal with Rehab Specialties to acquire its complex mobility business. The addition of Rehab Specialties brings USM into Texas for the first time. Rehab Specialties has branches in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio and Rio Grande Valley. USM President and CEO Bob Gouy stated in the release that the operations would continue with the same team and leadership. United Seating & Mobility (USM) announced July 22 that it acquired Central Kentucky Mobility's (CKM) complex mobility business. Gouy called CKM's service areas in Lexington and Louisville, Ky., as well as central, eastern and southern Kentucky, "a core market for us." The merged USM/CKM will continue to provide services in that area.

Vantage Mobility International launches new website

PHOENIX - Vantage Mobility International debuted a new website July 21. A section for first-time buyers allows customers to see different wheelchair conversions available and includes a "Build-A-Van" feature. The site also offers a community section with blogs and news, and a clean, fresh look. VMI President Doug Eaton stated in a release that the new website would allow the company to better communicate with dealers and customers.

Mobility employee honored

SAN DIEGO - Keith Miller, a mobility sales specialist at the San Diego-based Ability Center, was named 2011 volunteer of the year by the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The annual award honors people for the "contribution, dedication and commitment to better health for all San Diegans," stated a July 26 press release issued by the Ability Center. The 17-year-old company provides mobility equipment and services through six locations in three states: California, Arizona and Nevada.

Short takes

NRRTS in August relocated its offices. Its new address is 112 E. 6th Street, WalsenBurg, Colo, 81089...The Assistive Technology Industry Association in June announced its annual conference will take place Nov. 3 to 5, 2011 in Chicago. FMI: www.atia.org.