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Claiming Poll Position: Set the Pace in Mid-Term Races

"You can't win the race if you're not in it!" This old adage may sound trivial but its core meaning rings true, particularly as it relates to the outcome of the upcoming U.S. mid-term elections. With the grid already formed nationwide, the car enthusiast community can help determine next year's political course. Voters will elect 435 members of the U.S. House, 36 U.S. senators, 36 governors and thousands of state and local leaders in November. Lawmakers in your jurisdiction crossing the stripe first will ultimately steer or sideline legislation affecting you, your fellow constituents and the auto hobby's future. Here are three easy steps to securing victories for our pastime during next year's legislative sessions.

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Legislative Front Lines

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► California Bill to Create "Road Usage Fee" Pilot Program Signed Into Law

SEMA SAN Strike Force

Lawmakers love to make public appearances in sharp-looking rides. Serving as escort to California Assemblyman Allan Mansoor, Don Hull drives the 1954 Packard Caribbean convertible above in the city of Westminster’s 2011 TET Parade to honor the Vietnamese New Year. According to Don, "The car was packed with little kids - they LOVED the Packard and everyone wanted to ride in it."

"The production of the Packard ended in 1958, but a breed of enthusiasts live on who are dedicated to the enjoyment and preservation of the Packard automobile. We are an international fraternity of Packard hobbyists and we call ourselves Packards International Motor Car Club," says the club’s official website: packardsinternational.com. Established in Santa Ana, California, Packards International celebrated its 50th anniversary last year and still maintains its original location. 2015 marks the same milestone of the group's National Tour, just one of many events they are involved with each year. In addition to maintaining a set of detailed judging procedures and a fleet of award-winning vehicles, the national membership is supported by individuals in all 50 states and eight foreign countries.

As a long-time member, editor and current president, Don Hull provides much of Packards International's voice. A former candidate for the U.S Congress, Don continuously seeks opportunities to build positive relationships with lawmakers for the good of the club and the hobby at large. The image above clearly demonstrates the strong connection that can be made between legislators, enthusiasts and the next generation of voters. Recently, Hull published a SEMA Action Network (SAN) ad in both the Packards International quarterly magazine and the Packards Today regional publication. He also promoted a SAN Legislative Alert to illustrate the network's role as the hobby's watchdog. "Our club appreciates being able to repurpose articles from reputable sources like SEMA." The good tidings are certainly mutual, Don! Special thanks to you and your members for fighting the good fight alongside all of us.

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