Hobbyists Come Out in Force to Celebrate Inaugural "Collector Car Appreciation Day"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(July 15, 2010)

Contact: Della Domingo
909/978-6723
dellad@sema.org

 

Washington, D.C. (July 15, 2010) – On Friday, July 9, 2010, collector car enthusiast organizations across the country gathered to celebrate the first ever “Collector Car Appreciation Day,” as designated by U.S. Senate Resolution 513 (S. Res. 513).  Events ranging from car cruises and shows to small business open houses and special offers were held to honor the cultural and educational importance of collector cars.  Car clubs, enthusiast organizations, and affiliated businesses hosted over 100 events in more than 40 states to commemorate this special day.

“The Senate resolution creating Collector Car Appreciation Day validated what we already knew,” said SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting.  “Americans love their cars.  By taking part in these events around the country, automotive enthusiasts and the businesses that serve them ensured that this passion was honored and recognized.”     

At the request of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) and the Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO), S. Res. 513 was 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 S. Res. 513 reaffirms 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 motorsports.

A sample of some of the events that took place on July 9th include: Goodguys PPG Nationals in Columbus, OH, Classic Industries Collector Car Appreciation Day Sale, The Sid Waterman Classic Auto and Art Show in Gualala, CA, a cruise on scenic Hwy. 8 organized by the AACA in North Carolina, the Meguiars nationwide “Automotive Handshake”, two-for-one admission to the National Automobile Museum in Reno, NV, and many more.  During several of these events, SEMA presented copies of S. Res. 513 to enthusiast advocates and supporters of the industry who will display them at museums and car club events. View photos of the events here.

“We look forward to working with the Congress to make Collector Car Appreciation Day an annual event,” said SEMA VP of Government Affairs Steve McDonald.  “The momentum created on July 9th will continue to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society.”   

About SEMA
SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $31.85 billion specialty automotive industry of 7,144 member-companies. It is the authoritative source for research, data, trends and market growth information for the specialty auto parts industry. The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles. For more information, contact SEMA at 1575 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765, tel: 909/396-0289, or visit www.sema.org or www.enjoythedrive.com.