The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and its Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) and Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Councils this year announced July 13, 2012 as "Collector Car Appreciation Day." The date marks the third commemoration in what has become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society. SEMA and its councils are again working to secure a Congressional resolution to recognize the day's significance. 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 the collector car industry and the millions of hobbyists it supports.
"In the previous two years, the U.S. Senate helped launch national Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing resolutions at our request," said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. "As a result, thousands of Americans have gathered at car cruises, parades and other events to celebrate our nation's automotive heritage. By taking part in these events around the country, these automotive enthusiasts and related businesses ensured that their passion was honored and recognized."
The previous resolutions were 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, non-partisan 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 13, 2012, 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 again proudly partner with individuals, car clubs and businesses as they organize car cruises, club gatherings and other educational events to celebrate the day."
SEMA will maintain and publicize 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 Greg Dooley of the SEMA Government Affairs office at 202/783-6007, etc. 38 or gregd@sema.org. If you are unable to celebrate on July 13th, SEMA encourages events to be scheduled throughout the month of July.