A Day to Celebrate the Hobby

	The 39th annual Old Car Show in Iola, Wisconsin.

At the request of SEMA and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), the U.S. Senate passed Resolution 452 (S. Res. 452) designating July 13, 2012, as “Collector Car Appreciation Day.” The date marks the third 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 two resolutions, S. Res. 452 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 are strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, and S. Res. 452 reaffirms 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.

“We are grateful for the U.S. Senate’s recognition of the collector car hobby as an American pastime and means of individual expression,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “Collector Car Appreciation Day is also a singular tribute to the collector-car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports. Restoration businesses help preserve our nation’s heritage while providing well-paying, high-skilled jobs nationwide.”

	Collector-car owners take a pre-race lap at the Toyota Speedway in Irwindale, California.

States, cities and two Canadian provinces joined the U.S. Senate last year by passing their own proclamations and resolutions. This year, the Hawaii State Legislature has already passed two resolutions, and several other states are pursuing similar initiatives.

“On July 13, 2012, collectors and enthusiasts will host hundreds of events across the country,” said Laura Bergan, chairman of ARMO.

“We will again proudly partner with individuals, car clubs and businesses as they organize car cruises, club gatherings and other educational events to celebrate the day.”

It is not too late to take action and host an event of your own! Through its grassroots hobbyist organization—the SEMA Action Network (SAN)—SEMA maintains 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 san@SEMA.org. If you are unable to celebrate July 13, SAN encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July.