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SAN DIRECTOR’S DISPATCH
By Colby Martin
Tomorrow’s Collector Vehicles Celebrated Today
Thousands of car enthusiasts took over the streets to share their four-wheeled passion in honor of Collector Car Appreciation Day. A recap of these events is featured in the Driving Force cover story. Hopefully you got your special ride out of the garage and headed to an event near you or even hosted your own.
As a result of this annual celebration, I’m asked fairly often what qualifies as a “collector vehicle?” My own sense is that a collector car should serve as a visual demonstration of the owner’s passion. While many collector cars may be sought after by a certain segment of our hobby, some likely didn’t have much of a following at one point. As time rolls on, shifts in vehicle interests, trends, fads and values also occur. Lately, it appears that the typical collector cars of yesterday are making room for fresh examples, including classic imports like the ’67½ Datsun 2000 roadster above. Read more »
Legislative Front Lines
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SEMA SAN Strike Force
Every year, the Minnesota Street Rod Association (MSRA) Legislative Committee sponsors an annual “Run to the (Capitol) Hill” in St. Paul. During this hallmark event, club members rub elbows with legislators to build or reinforce positive relationships. In fact, the group encourages each of the state lawmakers to participate in the SAN-supported State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus. Pictured above, participants from this year’s trip to the Minnesota capital gathered in the building’s rotunda. (Content courtesy MSRA LineChaser)
Since its creation in 1967, the Minnesota Street Rod Association (MSRA) has been intent on building a good relationship with state lawmakers. Over the years, these individuals worked with legislators to develop legislation that was friendly to the auto enthusiast and the street rod hobby. These laws have included the adoption of the Street Rod License Plate in 1979. As the club continued to grow, its board of directors saw the need for increased activity in the political arena. As a result, the Legislative Committee was formed In 1988. This committee has been involved with topics ranging from emissions exemptions to ethanol fuel mandates to blue dot taillights. MSRA was an early proponent of the SEMA Action Network (SAN) and continues to enlist new recruits to the network.
“Every car enthusiast must keep an eye on local ordinances that could negatively impact the hobby,” the club explains. “Our cars can become targets for cities and counties when additional revenue is needed.” The SAN commends the MSRA for taking initiative with elected officials at the local, state and federal levels and proactively engaging them. Continued efforts like these have ultimately led to “smoother waters” for street rodders in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Congratulations to you all!
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