| SAN 20th ANNIVERSARY: PART II |
SEMA Action Network’s Power Hits the Pavement
A slew of challenges quickly consumed the SEMA Action Network (SAN) during its infancy. Before the group could begin impacting legislative efforts nationwide, it first had to prioritize the issues of the day. Identifying and understanding the threats and opportunities affecting the automotive hobby was vital to our future success. The SAN began tracking these priority issues and responding throughout the legislative sessions in each of the 50 states. A unified voice was needed to spread the word about these efforts. Individuals were recruited to engage local car clubs and relevant business interests. It was determined that reliable allies around the country could most effectively reach their communities and spread the word about SAN initiatives.
► Read more
Celebrating the Great Outdoors
Alaska OHV Area: Legislation establishing the Jonesville Public Use Area to protect, maintain, perpetuate, and enhance year-round public recreation was introduced. The bill would, among other things, provide opportunities for the public to enjoy the area through a full spectrum of public uses, including the maintenance and enhancement of off-road vehicle recreational opportunities.
California OHV Programs: Legislation to make permanent California’s Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) program was approved by the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee. Currently, the program is slated to expire at the end of 2017. The OHMVR program provides funds to local, state and federal agencies, educational institutions and nonprofit entities for OHV management on both federal and state lands.
► Read More
Click here for the complete list of Legislative Action Alerts.
Mamaroneck, New York’s Rich Golanec stands proudly with his ’55 Chevy Nomad at the 1979 National Nomad Club (NNC) Convention held in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Rich Golanec’s automotive passion was first awakened in 1956. A pearl-laden, custom ’49-’51 Merc hooked young Rich as it roamed the streets near his home. Car magazines further fueled his fire until he could buy his first ride, a ’52 Ford, and begin customizing it. One fateful night at a local snack bar, a beautiful black ’55 Chevy Nomad left an indelible impression. “For me, Nomads were love at first sight,” Golanec recalls. “After being bitten hard by the bug, I found my ’55 in 1968. It was in original, unrestored condition wearing Glacier Blue and Shoreline Beige. Although in rough shape, it was all there with a good 265 c.i. engine and Powerglide trans.”
It didn’t take long after purchasing the wagon for Golanec to become an early member of the National Nomad Club (NNC), as well as the Chevrolet Nomad Association (CNA) when the former ceased to exist. Involvement with the Chevy Classics Club also followed. He attended the NNC Convention for the first time in 1972. The Nomad made two laps around the Indianapolis 500 Speedway during the 1977 event. Another favorite trip was the journey to the 1978 convention, where Rich visited the Badlands, Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. A freshly rebuilt Powerglide and small block 350 were broken in along the way. In the ensuing years, due to unfortunate circumstances, the car was completely disassembled and remains so today. A ’72 Chevelle wagon was among the vehicles that took its place on the highway. “My dream is to someday be able to aim the ’55’s chrome bird hood ornament to new horizons once again!”
Rich stays active with the SEMA Action Network (SAN) by spreading the word about current legislative issues, such as mandates on ethanol fuel. Given his passion for cruising in vintage vehicles, he shares his concern about the mixture with others. Higher concentrations, such as E15, can cause metal corrosion and dissolve certain plastics and rubbers in automobiles produced before 2001. Golanec distributes SAN information at the shows he attends to attract greater numbers to the cause. “We’re all in this fight together!” he exclaims.
Rich, we’re grateful for your constant promotion of our hobby's rich traditions!
Stay Up-to-Date on the RPM Act: Get the latest information on the motorsports bill at sema.org/epa-news.
◄ Driving Force Online Archives
|
|
