At the request of SEMA Action Network (SAN), Senator John Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) have introduced and the Senate has approved Senate Resolution 154 (S. Res 154) in the United States Senate, officially designating July 8, 2011 as “Collector Car Appreciation Day.” S. Res 154 states that the Senate “recognizes that the collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.”
The date marks the second commemoration in what will become an annual event to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society. “Last year, the United States Senate helped launch the first national Collector Car Appreciation Day by passing Senate Resolution 513 at our request,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “As a result, thousands of Americans gathered at car cruises, parades and other events to celebrate our nation’s automotive heritage. As we move forward, SEMA’s commitment to preserving and promoting the automotive restoration industry through its projects and programs is evident in this special day.”
Senators Tester and Burr, both members of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington. By sponsoring S. Res 154, Tester and Burr have 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.
Car clubs, individuals and all SAN members are encouraged to organize events to help celebrate the day. For a listing of 2011 Collector Car Appreciation Day events already planned, please visit our Collector Car Appreciation Day info page at /celebrate_collectorcar_day. For more information or to have your event included, please email us at san@sema.org.
