SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) councils announced July 8, 2011 as Collector Car Appreciation Day. The date marks the second commemoration in what will become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society. SEMA and its councils are now working to secure a Congressional resolution to recognize the day’s significance.

“Last year, the U.S. Senate helped launch the first national Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing Senate Resolution 513 at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As a result, thousands of Americans gathered at car cruises, parades and other events to celebrate our nation’s automotive heritage. As we move forward, SEMA’s commitment to preserving and promoting the automotive restoration industry through its projects and programs is evident in this special day.”

S. Res. 513 was sponsored by Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus members Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC). Senators Tester and Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, and the resolution reaffirmed their understanding of the cultural importance of collector cars. The caucus is an informal, nonpartisan group that pays tribute to America’s ever-growing love affair with the car and motorsports. The caucus recognizes the integral role collector cars have played in fostering our nation’s appreciation for the automobile’s unique historical place in our history.

“On July 8, 2011, collectors and enthusiasts will host hundreds of events across the country,” said Laura Bergan, chairman of SEMA’s Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) council. “We will proudly partner with individuals, car clubs and businesses as they organize car cruises, club gatherings and other educational events to celebrate the day.”

Said Rick Love, chairman-elect of SEMA’s Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) council: “The industry endeavors to preserve our nation’s automotive heritage while providing well-paying, high-skilled jobs nationwide. Collector Car Appreciation Day is a singular tribute to this industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.”

SEMA will maintain a list of scheduled events to commemorate America’s time-tested love affair with the automobile. Individuals, car clubs and business owners interested in publicizing events should contact Mike Dingell, director of the SEMA Action Network, at 202/783-6007 x38 or miked@sema.org. Visit here for a listing of Collector Car Appreciation Day events. If you are unable to celebrate on July 8, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July.