The U.S. Senate passed Senate Resolution 176 (S. Res. 176) designating July 12, 2013 as "Collector Car Appreciation Day." The Resolution was requested by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Councils. The date marks the fourth commemoration in what has become an annual event to celebrate and raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.
As with the previous three Resolutions, S. Res. 176 was sponsored by Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC). Senators Tester and Burr are strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, and S. Res. 176 reaffirms their understanding of the cultural importance of collector cars. The Caucus is an informal, non-partisan member organization that pays tribute to America's ever growing love affair with the car and motorsports.
"We again thank the U.S. Senate for the continuing recognition of the collector car hobby as a strong American tradition and pastime," said SEMA vice president of government affairs Steve McDonald. "With Australia and Canada joining the mix, Collector Car Appreciation Day has now become an international recognition of the collector car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports. The collector car industry helps preserve our unique American automotive heritage while contributing to the economy by providing high-skilled, well-paying jobs."
This year, many states and local governments have adopted similar commemorations to mark this celebration.
Alex Tainsh, chairman of SEMA's Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Council said, "Collector Car Appreciation Day is the opportunity for everyone involved in this great American hobby to show off their cars and celebrate new traditions. Businesses and car clubs across the country will be hosting car shows and cruises. More events are being held to commemorate this special day each year."
All automotive enthusiasts are encouraged to take part in this year's celebration by planning or attending events in their community. Through its grassroots hobbyist organization, the SEMA Action Network (SAN), SEMA is maintaining a list of scheduled events to commemorate the day at www.semasan.com. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact SAN Director Colby Martin at 909/978-6721 or [email protected]. If you are unable to celebrate on July 12th, SAN encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July.
