“SweetChariots” Classic Car Community

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Hobbyists Come Out in Force to Celebrate

Enthusiasts Host Events Nationwide to Recognize Collector Car Appreciation Day

On 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 more than 100 events in states across the country to commemorate this special day.

“The Senate resolution creating Collector Car Appreciation Day validated what we already knew,” said SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald. “Americans, especially SEMA Action Network (SAN) members, love their cars. By taking part in these events around the country, these automotive enthusiasts ensured that this passion was honored and recognized.”

A sample of some of the events that took place on July 9 include: Goodguys PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio; the Sid Waterman Classic Auto and Art Show in Gualala, California; a cruise on scenic Highway 8 organized by the AACA in North Carolina; the Meguiar’s nationwide “Automotive Handshake;” two-for-one admission to the National Automobile Museum in Reno, Nevada; the Northwest Motorfest in Boise, Idaho; the Hole in the Wall Garage Collector Car Day BBQ in Maine; and many more. During several of these events, the SAN presented copies of S. Res. 513 to enthusiast advocates and supporters of the industry who will display them at museums and car club events.

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

LEGISLATIVE QUICK HITS

Massachusetts Street Rods/Customs: A version of SEMA-model legislation (H.B. 4871) to create a vehicle registration classification for street rods, custom vehicles, replicas and specially constructed vehicles was passed by the Massachusetts General Court. The bill has been sent to the governor for his signature and enactment into law. H.B. 4871 defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. Replica vehicles are defined as being assembled by a non-manufacturer from new or used parts that replicate an earlier year, make and model vehicle. Specially constructed vehicles are those reconstructed or assembled by a non-manufacturer from new or used parts that have an exterior that does not replicate or resemble any other manufactured vehicle. The bill allows replica vehicles to be assigned a certificate of title bearing both the year in which the vehicle was built and the make, model and year of the vehicle intended to be replicated.

California Car Scrap: In July, the California Office of Administrative Law (OAL) approved a proposal to allow all vehicles under 10,000 lbs. (previously 8,500 lbs.) to be scrapped through the Bureau of Automotive Repair’s (BAR) vehicle retirement program. This proposal was approved as an “emergency action” that will become operative if and when the proposed rule is approved and would expire on January 27, 2011. The current proposed rule, if approved, would take effect in early 2011 and increase the number of vehicles eligible for retirement. The proposal expands the current program, which only allows for the retirement of on-cycle vehicles that have failed their biennial required smog check in the year they are seeking to participate. The new rule would provide an exception to the current prohibition on participation by unregistered vehicles, permitting their retirement if they can prove that they have been driven primarily in California for the previous two years. This provision would allow vehicles not paying registration fees, which fund the program, to be permitted to benefit from the program.

A new voucher program to be operated in the San Joaquin Air Pollution Control District and the South Coast Air Quality Management District was included in the proposal as well. The voucher program would provide additional incentives for vehicle owners to scrap their older vehicles by providing them with funds for the purchase of a new vehicle. The OAL has until September 13, 2010 to approve or disapprove BAR’s proposed rule.

CLUB SPOTLIGHT

Driving the Drive
Southwestern Virginia Car Council Goes the Extra Mile

Providing a network for regional councils, the Virginia Association of Car Councils (VAACC) aids in communication amongst enthusiasts and car clubs throughout the state to encourage participation in the legislative process and provide information on state legislation that would impact the hobby. Regional councils include the Car Club Council of Hampton Roads, the Car Club Council of Central Virginia, the Virginia Peninsula Car Club Council, the Northern Virginia Car Club Council, and the Southwest Car Council.

Each year, the Southwestern Virginia Car Council goes above and beyond the legislative call of duty in an effort to give back to the motoring community. Bringing forth the concept of Star City Motor Madness nine years ago, the council has fostered the growth of this annual cruise and car show in Roanoke, Virginia, to benefit nonprofit organizations such as the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

The SAN was in attendance at this year’s Star City Motor Madness, which drew enthusiasts eager to show off their rods and performance machines on the spectator-lined Williamson Road, meander down the show’s Corvette Alley and chat with “My Classic Car” host Dennis Gage, who chose to feature this year’s Motor Madness in an episode of his show.

Council President and Vice President of Strategic Planning for the Antique Automobile Club of America Tom Cox is a long-time friend of the hobby and the SAN. Many successes can be attributed to the hard work of the council as well as the entire group of councils in the VAACC. “We have lines of communication set up between our regions, area car club councils and the SAN. E-mail lists, phone banks and contact information for legislators get circulated among the groups and our voices get heard,” explains Cox. It’s comforting to know that the SAN has an organization that walks the walk (or, rather, drives the drive) on our side!

For more information on VAACC visit: www.vaacc.org.

SEPTEMBER 2010 SAN CLUB EVENTS

CALIFORNIA
September 11, Dana Point
Trip to Dana Point Tall Ships
Sponsor: Buick Club of America-Orange County Chapter
Info: Larry Minery at 714/639-1137

September 11, Dublin
Tri Valley Classic Chevy Club Rock & Bowl Car Show
Info: www.tvccc.net

September 16–19, San Bernardino
Route 66 Rendezvous
Sponsor: ATHS Southern CA Chapter
Info: Kenneth Lund at 909/838-6718 or www.aths.org

September 25, Costa Mesa
11th Annual Cruisin’ for a Cure
Sponsor: Hot Rods Unlimited
Info: www.cruisinforacure.com

September 26, Coronado
17th Annual Fall Classic Car Show, Tidelands Park
Sponsor: Camaro Club of San Diego
Info: 760/741-6058 or motherroad66@cox.net

COLORADO
September 18, Denver
Colfax Avenue Cruise
Sponsor: Old Car Council of Colorado
Info: www.oldcarcouncil.org/CruiseColfax.html

ILLINOIS
September 17–19, Joliet
4th Peak Chicagoland Nationals
Sponsor: Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

INDIANA
September 6, Cicero
Red Bridge Rod Run
Sponsor: Vintage Rollers
Info: http://vintagerollers.homestead.com

IOWA
September 14, Anamosa
J&P Cycle Cruise Night
Sponsor: J&P Cycle
Info: www.jpcycles.com

KANSAS
September 3–5, Kansas City
9th Mid-Western Nationals
Sponsor: Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

MAINE
September 17–18, Old Orchard
17th Annual Old Orchard Beach Car Show & Parade
Info: 207/934-2500 or www.oldorchardbeachmaine.com

MARYLAND
September 19, Frederick
18th Annual Alzheimer’s Association Benefit Car & Truck Show
Sponsor: Heart of Maryland Classic Chevy Club
Info: www.HMCCC.50G.com or 301/865-5270

September 24–26, McHenry
Strut Your Stuff Shine and Show 2010 Car Show
Sponsor: Shine & Show Promotions
Info: www.strutyourstuffpromotions.com/show.htm

September 25–26, Ocean City
4×4 and Offroad Show & Shine
Sponsor: Big Dogs Offroad
Info: http://bigdogsoffroad.com

MASSACHUSETTS
September 5, Marshfield
29th Annual Spindles Auto Club Car Show & Swap Meet
Sponsor: Spindles Auto Club
Info: 781/335-9754

September 9 & 23, Foxboro
Bass Pro Shows Cruise at Patriot Place
Sponsor: Mass Cruisers Auto Club
Info: http://clubs.hemmings.com/frameset.cfm?club=masscruisers

MICHIGAN
September 10–12, Kalamazoo
31st Street Rod Nationals North
Sponsor: NSRA Street Rod Nationals North
Info: 303/776-7841 or http://nsra-usa.com

September 12, Hickory Corners
16th Annual West Michigan Muscle Car “Plus” Show and Swap Meet
Sponsor: West Michigan Muscle Car Club
Info: Gary at 269/345-2202 or www.gilmorecarmuseum.org

MISSOURI
September 12, St. Louis
14th Annual Walter F. Philips Memorial Old Cars Against Cancer “Wheels in Motion Day”
Info: Elliott at 314/878-0534 or Al at 314/650-7639

September 18, Elm
Jazz & Snazz Car Show
Sponsor: Rotary Club of Webster Groves
Info: 314/963-7505 or www.webstergrovesrotary.org

NEVADA
September 4, Sparks
ATHS Sierra Nevada Chapter Fall Truck Show
Info: Jim Miller at 775/747-1063 or www.aths.org

September 23–26, Laughlin
Roddin’ on the River
Sponsor: The River Cruizers
Info: www.rivercruizers.com/roddin_on_the_river

NEW MEXICO
September 10–11, Clovis
14th Annual Run to Hillcrest Rod Run
Sponsor: Desert Cruzers Car Club
Info: www.desertcruzers.com

NEW YORK
September 10–12, Lake George
20th Annual Adirondack Nationals at Fort Williams
Sponsor: Albany Rods and Kustoms Inc.
Info: 207/442-9065 or www.adirondacknationals.com

September 19, Pearl River
Pearl River Auto Show
Sponsor: Rockland Rodders
Info: www.rocklandrodders.com

NORTH CAROLINA
September 3–5, Asheville
Mustangs at the Mansion
Sponsor: Blue Ridge Mustang Club of Asheville
Info: http://brmcoa.org

September 18, Hendersonville
12th Annual Autorama Car Show
Sponsor: AACA Great Smoky Mountain Region
Info: Ray Robertson at 828/683-7701, 727/599-6949 or jerobertson38@me.com

September 25, Denver
Steele Open House
Sponsor: Steele Rubber Products
Info: www.steelerubber.com/?section=32

OREGON
September 5, Port Orford
12th Annual Show and Shine
Sponsor: Port Orford Rotary Club
Info: Sonja Mason at 541/332-8630 or www.portorfordrotary.org/gallery/showshineflyer2010.pdf

September 17–19, Coos Bay
Cruz the Coos
Sponsor: Sunset Classic Chevys
Info: www.sunsetclassicchevys.com

PENNSYLVANIA
September 3–4, Washingtonville
ATCA 4th Annual Shortway Chapter Show
Sponsor: Antique Truck Club of America
Info: www.antiquetruckclubofamerica.org

September 19, Seven Springs (Champion)
All-Oldsmobile Show
Sponsor: Allegheny Rockets
Info: 724/266-5527 or www.alleghenyrockets.org

September 24–26, Pocono
6th Great American Nationals
Sponsor: Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

September 25, Morrisville
ECRT Car Show
Sponsor: East Coast Rolling Thunder Car Club
Info: www.eastcoastrollingthunder.com

SOUTH DAKOTA
September 11, Rapid City
Black Hills Mopar Club Liberty Fall Fling Car Show
Info: www.blackhillsmopars.org

September 18, Bear Country
Wild Wheels Car Show
Info: 605/343-2290 ext. 115 or www.bearcountryusa.com/news/event_detail.php?id=10

TENNESSEE
September 25, Pulaski
27th Anniversary Antique Car Show
Sponsor: P.A.C.E. Car Club
Info: Lee Kelly at 931/424-6559 or www.fnbforyou.com/pdf/PACE_proof.pdf

UTAH
September 8, Sandy City
Club 90 Cruise Night
Info: www.club90slc.com

September 10–11, Brigham City
Peach Days Poker Run & Car Show
Sponsor: Bonnevills Rods & Customs Car Club
Info: www.bonnevillscarclub.org

VERMONT
September 17–19, Burlington
17th Northeast Nationals
Sponsor: NSRA Northeast Nationals
Info: 209/474-0103 or http://nsra-usa.com

VIRGINIA
September 10–12, Winchester
Big Dogs Main Jambo
Sponsor: Big Dogs OffRoad
Info: http://bigdogsoffroad.com

September 18, Manassas
35th Annual Edgar Rohr Memorial Antique Car Meet
Sponsor: AACA Bull Run Region
Info: Jon Battle at 703/392-6870 or terraplane@verizon.net

WISCONSIN
September 19, Beloit
34th Annual Beloit Lions Autorama Car Show, Parts Swap, Car Corral and Arts & Crafts
Sponsor: Beloit Evening Lions Club, Coachmen Street Rob Club and Blue Ribbon Classic Chevy Club
Info: Todd Nelson at 608/290-3628 or www.beloitautorama.com

September 25, Jefferson
Fall Jefferson Show & Swap Meet
Info: www.madisonclassics.com

WYOMING
September 2–4, Cheyenne
Western Fall Meet
Sponsor: AACA High Plains Region
Info: www.aaca.org/hvpr

September 4, Hulett
7th Annual Devils Tower Car Show
Sponsor: Texas Trail Cruisers Car Club
Info: 307/756-9526 or www.texastrailcruisers.com

ALBERTA, CANADA
September 3–5, Red Deer
31st International Mustang Meet
Sponsor: Ford Central Car Club
Info: www.fordcentral.ca

ONTARIO, CANADA
September 19, Toronto
British Car Day
Sponsor: Toronto Triumph Club
Info: http://www.torontotriumph.com/BCD
EARLY OCTOBER 2010 EVENTS

NEW MEXICO
October 8–9, Artesia
Swap Meet & Car Corral
Sponsor: Artesia Car Enthusiasts
Info: Dorothy at 575/746-9477

PENNSYLVANIA
October 2, Morrisville
Car Show at 31 E. Cleveland Ave., all makes and models
Info: Pat at 215/295-0567

SOUTH CAROLINA
October 8–9, North Myrtle Beach
16th Annual Pow Wow at the Beach
Sponsor: SC Chapter of the Pontiac Oakland Club International
Info: www.palmettopontiacs.org

Click Here to View the Newsletter As it Was Printed.

Happy Trails?
How Wilderness Legislation Can Stop Off-Roaders in Their Tracks

Like all niches of the auto hobby, off-roading is an activity enjoyed by countless enthusiasts and families all over the country. Responsible use of OHVs (off highway vehicles) provides quality and exciting family time outdoors enjoying all that America’s landscape has to offer on two or four wheels. However, with increasing frequency, enthusiasts are encountering a road or trail closed sign on public lands. This is often the result of Congress passing legislation that creates an area called “wilderness.”

“A wilderness designation is the strictest form of public land management since virtually all mechanized equipment is outlawed,” said SAN Director Ethan Landesman. “Motorized recreation is non-existent on these lands. In fact, allowable use in areas designated as wilderness only includes travel on foot or horseback—without the luxury of toilets, tables or fire pits.”

Wilderness does serve an important environmental purpose in protecting plants and animals and America’s natural heritage. The question is the amount of land that needs such a restrictive designation and whether it is possible to permit some motorized activities on portions of the land. When Congress enacted the Wilderness Act in 1964, it set aside 9 million acres of land. There are now about 110 million acres, and Congress is considering requests to add another 20 or 30 million acres.

Only Congress can designate a wilderness by enacting legislation into law. There are some compromise OHV-friendly solutions when considering such bills. For example, one is to “cherry-stem” existing roads and trails so they do not receive the wilderness stamp. Another is the so-called “back country” designation— not as drastic as wilderness—that would permit motorized activity on certain lands while simultaneously protecting the environment.

“In recent years, anti-OHV activists have pushed dozens of wilderness bills in an organized effort to lock-up as much land as possible,” said Steve McDonald, SEMA’s vice president of government affairs. “When these bills are rushed through Congress, however, there is little opportunity to cherry-stem existing roads and trails. In fact, the wilderness designation may be an intentional means to force responsible OHV enthusiasts off public land. This hurts local economies that depend upon off-road activities and deprives enthusiasts of legitimate recreational opportunities.”

This happened in 2009, when Congress combined more than 160 separate wilderness measures into one gigantic bill called the Omnibus Public Land Management Act. The law created nearly 2.2 million acres of new wilderness in nine states, including areas in and around Joshua Tree National Park and the Eastern Sierras in California, Owyhee-Bruneau Canyonlands in Idaho, Mt. Hood in Oregon, Zion National Park in Utah, Sabinoso Wilderness in New Mexico and Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. The OHV community is still identifying roads and trails that were swept-up in the closures. Two examples include Mt. Canaan Trail in Utah and Dickshooter Ridge Road in Idaho.

There are many more threats on the horizon. The current Congress is considering dozens more wilderness measures which, if combined into a single bill, could encompass as much as 30 million acres of land across the country! Scores of popular OHV trails could be closed. It is more important than ever to get involved and make your voice heard by government.

The SAN maintains that it is possible to balance environmental protection and promote responsible recreational opportunities. The SAN advocates a number of basic principles including:

• Implementing OHV policies that recognize the importance of vehicle-oriented recreation.

• Conducting case-by-case reviews of lands subject to a wilderness designation to ensure widespread local community support, and releasing any lands that do not meet the wilderness criteria since they have been developed with roads, trails, buildings, etc.

• Cherry-stemming existing roads/trails, a process that excludes them from the wilderness area and, thereby, can remain open to recreation.

• Creating a new designation called “back country” to supplement the wilderness designation. Back country would facilitate motorized recreation while still protecting the land. The designation would expand access and recreation opportunities to a large percentage of Americans who do not visit wilderness areas, including the very young, elderly and physically challenged.

For more information on land-use issues and ways you can help protect roads and trails from closure, visit the SAN’s Guide to Land Use Policies and Off Road Equipment at http://semasan.com.

Wilderness Bills Pending in Congress

Wilderness bills can vary in size and impact on the hobby. To follow are wilderness bills currently in Congress that could dramatically reshape the face of OHV recreation.

Northern Rockies: The “Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act” (H.R. 980) invents the term “Northern Rockies Bioregion” and then uses it as the reason to outlaw any motorized activity on nearly 24 million acres of land in five states (Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming) using the wilderness designation.

Utah: More than one-sixth of Utah would be off-limits to any form of motorized recreation if Congress approves H.R. 1925, “America’s Red Rock Wilderness Act of 2009.” The bill would designate 9.4 million acres of land in Utah as “wilderness.” Most of the 168 co-sponsors of the legislation represent areas east of the Rockies.

Central Idaho Economic Development and Recreation Act (S. 3294)—330,000 acres of land in Idaho.

Colorado Wilderness Act (H.R. 4289)—34 areas totaling 850,000 acres in Colorado

San Juan Mountains Wilderness Act (H.R. 3914; S. 2762)—44,000 acres in southwestern Colorado Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks Wilderness Act (S. 1689)—272,000 acres in New Mexico

Cerro Del Yuta Wilderness and Rio San Antonio Wilderness (S. 874)—236,000 acres near Taos, New Mexico

Forest Jobs and Recreation Act (S. 1470)—set aside 600,000 acres while protecting timber harvesting in Montana

Devil’s Staircase Wilderness Act (S. 1272; H.R. 2888)—30,000 acres in Oregon

Tony Dean Cheyenne River Valley Conservation Act (S. 3310)—50,000 acres in South Dakota

Tennessee Wilderness Act (S. 3470)—20,000 acres near the
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

While these bills have not yet been passed, other wilderness bills have resulted in real trails being closed to OHV enthusiasts. Some examples of areas where off-road recreation is no longer permitted are:

Canaan Mountain Sawmill Road, Utah: The road was built around the turn-of-the-last-century for access to a sawmill at the top of Canaan Mountain in Utah near the Arizona border. For decades, it has been a popular recreation route with spectacular vistas of the “Grand Staircase” and Arizona Strip. In 2009, Congress included the Canaan Mountain Wilderness, along with nearly 160 other measures in the “Omnibus Public Land Management Act.” As a result, OHV access was then outlawed on nearly 2.2 million acres of new wilderness in nine states when the law took effect in March 2009.

Dickshooter Ridge Road, Idaho: About 17 miles of road on Dickshooter Ridge between Battle and Deep Creeks was closed when the Owyhee Canyonlands Wilderness was created in southwest Idaho as a result of the 2009 law. The road offered spectacular views of vertical walled gorges and vistas of the surrounding desert plateaus. The road was named after Dick Shooter, who established a homestead there and was the original route old timers used to travel from Silver City to Salt Lake and the Humboldt (Nevada) area.

Lonstine River Road, Oregon: The popular road south of Lonstine, Oregon, would be closed if the “Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act” is passed by Congress. The legislation invents the term “Northern Rockies Bioregion” as the reason to outlaw any motorized activity on nearly 24 million acres of land in five States (Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming). Bill sponsors want to create the Eagle Cap Wilderness and close the road within the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.

CAUCUS CORNER
Each month Driving Force will feature members of the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus. The SEMA-supported caucus is a bipartisan group of state lawmakers, more than 450 strong, whose common thread is a love and appreciation for automobiles. Here are its newest members:

CALIFORNIA
Assemblyman Curt Hagman

PENNSYLVANIA
Representative Peter Daley

LEGISLATIVE QUICK HITS

New Jersey New Car Exemption: SAN-supported legislation to extend the emissions inspection exemption to vehicles five model years old or newer was signed into law by Governor Chris Christie. Current law exempts vehicles that are four model years old or newer. New Jersey also already exempts historic (at least 25 years old) and collector (driven no more than 3,000 miles per year and insured for limited use) vehicles from emissions testing.

Louisiana Inspection Exemption: A SAN-supported bill to exempt antique vehicles 25 years old and older from the motor-vehicle inspection requirements was signed into law by Governor Bobby Jindal. Prior to the bill’s enactment, only vehicles 40 years old and older were exempted from testing. The bill makes the inspection exemption consistent with current state law defining an antique vehicle as a vehicle that is 25 years old or older and used primarily for shows, parades, tours and other special uses and not for general transportation. Vehicles in Louisiana are subject to an annual vehicle inspection, including a safety-equipment inspection and for vehicles registered in selected parishes, an additional emissions inspection. The emissions inspection consists of a visual anti-tampering check and a gas-cap integrity check. Vehicles manufactured in 1995 and later are also subject to an on-board diagnostic (OBD-II) emissions check.

Canada Lead-Fuel Exemption for Competition Vehicles: Environment Canada issued a SAN-supported final rule to indefinitely extend an exemption allowing the use of leaded gasoline in competition motor vehicles. The exemption has been renewed several times since it was first established in 1996. The SAN had previously opposed efforts to permanently terminate the exemption and effectively ban racing vehicles using leaded fuel. The new rule recognizes the relationship between the Canadian and U.S. racing industries and adopts a consistent environmental approach to leaded fuel use. Environment Canada will conduct a five-year review and revisit the exemption issue if necessary based on science, technology and fuel replacement developments. Meanwhile, Environment Canada will work with the racing industry to encourage a voluntary reduction or phase-out of leaded racing fuel.

HEY, THAT’S MY CAR!
Don’t Judge a Pony Car by Its Cover

2004 Ford Mustang GT
Owner: Dan Heagy
Aberdeen, Maryland

One of my favorite cars that my wife and I have owned was a ’98 Mustang GT. Unfortunately, it was totaled in 2006 while my wife was driving it, by a woman who pulled in front of her at an intersection. Two and a half years, two knee operations for my wife and one insurance settlement later, we were ready to find a new Mustang to replace our ’98!

My wife and I began our search for a replacement online and after looking for about a month we had narrowed it down from 1,500 to two that we really liked. We found our ’04 at a dealership in New Jersey. It had only 23,000 miles, and we had been watching the price drop online for about a month, so we decided to make the trip to test drive it! After getting lost along the way, we finally made it to the dealership at 8:30 p.m., only 30 minutes before it closed. Once we got there, we immediately fell in love with the car as it was everything we wanted. It was in perfect shape, drove great and felt like a brand-new car. We did the deal and drove it home on the spot!

The real fun started, though, when I began the modifications. I have equipped it with the Ford Racing suspension kit, Ford Racing .373 gears, a BBK 78mm throttle body, a Mac Pro Chamber exhaust with SLP Loudmouth mufflers, CDC sequential taillights, a cold air intake and a four-point roll bar. The roll bar was a must because I took my Mustang to the track event for the 45th Mustang Anniversary in Alabama last April. My Mustang is fun at the track, and it’s my daily driver!

Editors Note: Aside from just loving Mustangs, Dan is also the vice president of the 150-member-strong Mustang Club of Maryland.

Have your car or truck featured in a future issue of Driving Force. Submit your high-resolution photos online at www.semasan.com

August 2010 SAN CLUB EVENTS

FEATURED EVENT

PENNSYLVANIA
August 13–15, Bloomsburg Annual Rod & Custom Cruise-In
Bloomsburg Fairgrounds
Info: www.bloomhealth.net/car-show
All proceeds benefit the nonprofit Bloomsburg Hospital

ALASKA
August 14, Palmer
Hot Summer Nights
Sponsor: 49th State Street Rodders
Info: www.49thstatestreetrodders.com

ALBERTA, CANADA
August 21, Sylvan Lake Show & Shine
Sponsor: Sylvan Lake Customs & Classic
Info: 403/887-3826

August 21, Calmar
Calmar Show & Shine
Sponsor: Calmar Custom Wheels Auto Club
Info: www.calmarcustomwheelsautoclub.com/show_shine.html or 780/387-4385

CALIFORNIA
August 6, Yucaipa
Family Classic Car Cruise Night
Sponsor: Past Pleasures Car Club
Info: http://pastpleasurescarclub.com

August 12–15, Meadow Lake
Sierra Trek
Sponsor: California Association of 4WD Clubs Inc.
Info: www.cal4wheel.com

August 21, Crescent City
Cool Northern Nights on the Coast
Sponsor: Northern Knights Car Club
Info: www.northernknights.us

August 27–29, Pleasanton
24th West Coast Nationals
Sponsor: Good-Guys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

COLORADO
August 6–8, Denver
The Mile High Roundup
Sponsor: Cosworth Vega Owners Association
Info: jllromeo@msn.com or t.e.hutton@comcast.net or www.cosworthvega.com

August 20–22, Morrison
Super Chevy Show at Bandimere Speedway
Sponsor: Super Chevy
Info: www.bandimere.com/events/day_detail. php?dayID=194&dTargetDate=08/01/2010

IDAHO
August 12–15, Boise
39th Pepsi Nightfire Nationals
Sponsor: NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Series
Info: www.firebirdonline.com

ILLINOIS
July 31–August 1, St. Charles
20th Annual All Pontiac Indian Uprising
Sponsor: Cruisin’ Tigers GTO Club
Info: 630/541-6029 or www.cruisintigersgto.com

August 19–21, Moline, IL
AACA Central Division Fall Meet
Sponsor: AACA Mississippi Valley Region
Info: http://local.aaca.org/mvr

August 21, Tinley Park
60th Anniversary Celebration for the 1950 Oldsmobile
Sponsor: Oldsmobile Club of America-Illinois Valley Oldsmobile Chapter
Info: http://is-is.facebook.com/group.php?gid=137709945240

INDIANA
August 15, Lafayette
3rd Annual Columbian Park Car Show
Sponsor: Lafayette Kroozers
Info: 765/296-8464 or www.lafayette.in.gov/parks/division.php?fDD=19-187

August 21, Elwood
Vintage Rollers Glass Festival Rod Run
Sponsor: Vintage Rollers
Info: http://vintagerollers.homestead.com

KENTUCKY
August 5–8, Louisville
41st Annual Street Rod Nationals Plus
Sponsor: National Street Rod Association
Info: http://nsra-usa.com/index.php/site/evsum/C2

MONTANA
August 20–21, Libby
Ignite the Nights
Sponsor: Igniters Car Club
Info: www.igniterscarclub.com/show2010.html

PENNSYLVANIA
August 1, Hershey
Tall Cedars Car Show at the AACA Museum
Sponsor: Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Harrisburg Forest #43
Info: www.aacamuseum.org/events/event.aspx?id=295

MASSACHUSETTS
August 15, Medway
19th Annual Car Show
Sponsor: Mass Cruisers
Info: www.masscruisers.com

MICHIGAN
August 21, Royal Oak
16th Annual Woodward Dream Cruise
Info: www.woodwarddreamcruise.com

MONTANA
August 5–8, West Yellowstone
40th Yellowstone Rod Run
Info: http://yellowstonerodrun.com

NEW JERSEY
August 8, Metuchen
Project Graduation’s 1st Annual Car Show
Sponsor: Metuchen High
Info: http://bencar.freeyellow.com/2010SHOWFlyer.pdf

NORTH CAROLINA
August 28, Hillsborough
4th Annual Racers Reunion & Car Show
Sponsor: Historic Speedway Group
Info: 919/604-2292 or www.historicspeedwaygroup.org

OHIO
August 6–8, Norwalk
Pontiac Nationals
Sponsor: Ames Performance
Info: www.pontiacnationals.com

August 13–15, Columbus
Mopar Nationals
Info: www.moparnats.org

August 20–22, Norwalk
9th Blue Suede Cruise
Sponsor: Good-Guys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

August 27–29, Dayton
Trans Am Nationals
Sponsor: Trans Am Club of America-Dayton, Ohio Chapter
Info: www.78ta.com/nats

OKLAHOMA
August 7, Vinita
Route 66 Summer Fest Car Show
Sponsor: Vinita Area Chamber of Commerce
Info: www.vinita.com/summerfest.html

OREGON
August 13–15, The Dalles
Cruise the Gorge Car Show
Sponsor: Mid Columbia Car Club
Info: www.midcolumbiacarclub.org

August 27–28, Winchester Bay
19th Annual Kool Coastal Nights
Sponsor: Kool Coastal Cruisers
Info: www.koolcoastalnights.com

SOUTH CAROLINA
August 7, Spartanburg
Elite Summer Nationals
Info: www.elitesummernationals.com

SOUTH DAKOTA
August 13–15, Pierre
21st Annual Pierre Street Masters Dam Run
Sponsor: Street Masters Car Club
Info: www.pierrestreetmasters.com/events_2010damrun.htm

TENNESSEE
August 28, Cleveland
Destination Anywhere Cruise-In
Sponsor: The MainStreet Cruisers
Info: 423/614-5638 or www.mainstreetcruisein.com

UTAH
August 11, Sandy City
Club 90 Cruise Night
Sponsor: Club 90
Info: www.club90slc.com

August 14, Wasatch
Stars of the Past
Sponsor: Wasatch Rods & Customs
Info: 801/781-0738 or 801/476-6908

August 15, Midvale
Kruisers for Kids: Charity Car Show
Sponsor: Shriners Hospitals for Children
Info: www.kruisersforkids.com

VIRGINIA
August 12–14, Blacksburg
AACA Southeastern National Fall Meet
Sponsor: AACA Roanoke Valley Region
Info: http://local.aaca.org/roanoke/2010%20meet.htm

August 13–15, Hampton
Annual Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show
Sponsor: Hampton Cup Regatta
Info: 757/851-5875 or resto33@aol.com or http://hamptoncupregatta.org

August 13–15, Virginia Beach
2010 MCA National
Sponsor: Southeastern Virginia Mustang Club
Info: 757/318-6437 or superstang2@cox.net or www.sevmc.org

WASHINGTON
August 13–15, Spokane
9th Great Northwest Nationals
Sponsor: Good-Guys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

WISCONSIN
August 15, Waukesha
Waukesha Old Car Club Annual Car Show
Info: www.waukeshaoldcarclub.org

August 21–22, Milwaukee
Milwaukee Masterpiece
Info: www.milwaukeemasterpiece.com

August 22, Kiel
29th Annual Kiel Car Show & Swap Meet
Sponsor: Custom Street Car Club Ltd.
Info: www.kielcarclub.com

WYOMING
August 7, Evanston
15th Annual Evanston Car Cruise Car Show
Sponsor: Evanston Car Cruise Car Club
Info: http://evanstoncarcruise.org

Early EVENTS: SEPTEMBER 2010

INDIANA
September 6, Cicero
Vintage Rollers Red Bridge Rod Run
Sponsor: Vintage Rollers Car Club
Info: http://vintagerollers.homestead.com

MISSOURI
September 4–5, Kansas City
Kansas City All British Car and Cycle Show
Sponsor: All British Car & Cycle Association of Kansas City
Info: www.kcallbritish.com

INDIANA
September 4, Hayden
Hayden’s Auto Daze Gone By Festival and Car Show
Sponsor: Hayden Historical Museum
Info: 812-346-8212 or www.seidata.com/~haydenmu

CLUB SPOTLIGHT
Calling All Car Clubs!

Entry Forms Available September 20 for Annual Eagle One Golden Rule Awards

Eagle One has announced the availability of entry forms for its 18th Annual Golden Rule Awards. Car clubs entering will have an opportunity to win a $1,500 grand prize that will be donated to a charity of their choice. Three other winners will receive a $500 cash contribution for a charity of their choice.

The grand prize will be awarded to the car club judged to have performed the most compassionate achievement during 2010. Winners will be selected in four regions—west, midwest, east and south—for conducting the most outstanding community service program in their area.
In addition to a total of $3,000 in cash donations from Eagle One and co-sponsor Valvoline, winners will receive a generous supply of premium appearance care products and motor oil for fundraising purposes and a custom-designed trophy.

Starting September 20, the entry form is available for download on www.eagleone.com or by calling 818/501-1445. The deadline for entries is December 31, 2010. Winners will be notified by February 11, 2011. Eagle One is part of the Valvoline family of brands.

Click here to view the newsletter as it was printed. (2.7MB)

It’s Tour Time!

SEMA Action Network Hits the Road to Promote Pro-Hobby Legislation

It’s that time of the year again when in cities around the country the air will be filled with the sweet smell of fuel and the sound of rumbling rods. That’s right, it’s Power Tour time! Each year the SEMA Action Network (SAN) hits the road for a wild ride with the Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour to enlist more enthusiasts into its legislative efforts.

Leaving from Iowa Speedway in Newton, Iowa, on June 5, the highways will be filled with hot rods as the tour makes six stops in five states before pulling up to the U.S.S Alabama battleship in Mobile, Alabama, on June 12. In its 16th year, the Power Tour will bring hobbyists together from across the United States and Canada on this 1,300-mile journey.

“I look forward to gathering with thousands of automotive enthusiasts who know the importance of actively getting involved to protect our hobby,” said SAN Director Ethan Landesman. “I invite everyone to drop by the SAN tent, located near the Power Tour bus, to say ‘hi.’”

For information on the Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour, visit www.hotrod.com.

CAUCUS CORNER

Each month Driving Force will feature members of the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus. The SEMA-supported caucus is a bipartisan group of state lawmakers, nearly 450 strong, whose common thread is a love and appreciation for automobiles.
Here are its newest members:

Alabama
Senator Roger Bedford
Senator Jack Harper
Senator Linda Lopez
Representative Lynne Pancrazi

Arizona
Senator Robert Burns
Representative Vic Williams

Connecticut
Senator Rob Kane

Idaho
Representative Richard Wills

Illinois
Senator Brad Burzynski
Representative Kay Hatcher

Kansas
Representative Joe Seiwert

Kentucky
Senator Tom Buford

Pennsylvania
Representative Tom Houghton
Representative John Siptroth
Representative Tim Solobay

Michigan
Representative Larry DeShazor
Representative Martin Griffin
Representative Kenneth Horn
Representative Eileen Kowall
Representative John Walsh

Minnesota
Representative Phil Sterner

Missouri
Representative Curt Dougherty
Representative Tim Jones

Montana
Senator Ryan Zinke
Representative Mike Miller
Representative Penny Morgan
Representative Josh Peck

New Hampshire
Representative Ron Boisvert
Representative Gene Charron
Representative Philip Harvey
Representative Paul Ingersoll
Representative Robert Introne
Representative Michael McCarthy
Representative Carol McGuire
Representative Lawrence Perkins
Representative Ken Weyler

New Mexico
Representative Rudy Martinez

New York
Assemblyman Robert Castelli
Assemblywoman RoAnn Destito

North Carolina
Representative Marilyn Avila
Representative Rosa Gill
Representative Frank Iler
Representative Shirley Randleman

North Dakota
Senator Elroy Lindaas
Representative Louis Pinkerton

South Carolina
Representative Dan Hamilton
Representative Tommy Stringer

South Dakota
Representative Charles Hoffman

Texas
Representative Wayne Christian
Representative Ellen Cohen

Tennessee
Representative Mark White

Vermont
Senator Kevin Mullin

Wisconsin
Representative Ed Brooks
Representative John Nygren

LEGISLATIVE QUICK HITS

Canada (Prince Edward Island) Nitrous Oxide: The province of Prince Edward Island has introduced a bill to permit the installation of nitrous-oxide systems as long as the feed lines are disconnected or the canisters are removed while the vehicle is being operated on a public road. The bill largely mirrors SEMA-model legislation to better protect public road safety while ensuring legitimate off-road uses of nitrous-oxide systems.

California Specially Constructed Vehicles: The California State Assembly approved SAN-supported legislation to increase the registration limit for exempted specially constructed vehicle registrations from 500 to 750 vehicles per year. The Senate will now consider the bill, where it is likely to have a much tougher journey. Current law provides for emissions-system certification and a model-year designation for specially constructed vehicles. Under the law, vehicle owners choose whether a smog-test referee certifies the engine model year or the vehicle model year. To determine model year, inspectors compare the vehicle to those of the era that the vehicle most closely resembles. If there is no close match, it is classified as a ’60 vehicle. Only those emissions controls applicable to the model year and that can be reasonably accommodated by the vehicle are required. The Department of Motor Vehicles provides a new registration to the first 500 specially constructed vehicles per year that meet the criteria.

Louisiana Inspection Exemption: A SAN-supported bill to exempt antique vehicles 25 years old and older from the motor-vehicle inspection requirements was passed by the Louisiana House. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration. Current law only exempts vehicles 40 years old and older. The bill makes the inspection exemption consistent with current state law defining an antique vehicle as a vehicle that is 25 years old or older and used primarily for shows, parades, tours and other special uses and not for general transportation. Vehicles in Louisiana are subject to an annual vehicle inspection, including a safety-equipment inspection and, for vehicles registered in selected parishes, an additional emissions inspection. The emissions inspection consists of a visual anti-tampering check and a gas-cap-integrity check. Vehicles manufactured in 1995 and later are also subject to an on-board diagnostic (OBD-II) emissions check.

New York Historic Vehicles: The SAN is backing legislation in the New York Assembly to provide that historical vehicle owners only pay a one-time registration fee of $100 upon initial registration. The bill has been referred to the New York Assembly Transportation Committee for consideration. The reduced registration fee would be available to owners of historical vehicles owned and operated as an exhibition piece or collector’s item and used for club activities, exhibits, tours, parades, occasional transportation and similar uses. Under current New York law, a historical motor vehicle is either a vehicle manufactured more than 25 years ago or one which has unique characteristics and which is determined to be of historical, classic or exhibition value. The $100 one-time fee would replace the current annual fee of $28.75.

Vermont Inoperable Vehicles: Legislation, supported by the SAN, to provide an exemption to automotive hobbyists from the restrictions on salvage yards has been approved by the Vermont Legislature. The bill seeks to increase the regulation of salvage yards and automobile graveyards in the state but includes a provision stipulating that hobbyists are not to be confused with the owners of automobile graveyards. The bill defines an “automobile hobbyist” as a person not primarily engaged in the sale of vehicles and parts or dismantling junk vehicles. Further, the definition of “automobile graveyard” does not include an area used by an automobile hobbyist for storage and restoration purposes, provided their activities comply with federal, state and municipal law. The bill now goes to the governor for his signature and enactment into law.

Collector Car Appreciation Day Slated for July 9

Lawmakers Acknowledge Importance of Collection and Restoration of Historic and Classic Cars

The United States Senate passed Senate Resolution 513 (S. Res. 513) at the request of the SAN, designating July 9, 2010, as “Collector Car Appreciation Day” nationwide. The Resolution 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 resolution was sponsored by Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus members Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) and Senator Richard Burr (R-NC). Senator Tester and Senator Burr have been strong advocates for the automotive hobby in Washington, D.C., and their sponsorship of S. Res. 513 reaffirms their understanding of the cultural importance of collector cars. The caucus is an informal, non-partisan group of federal lawmakers 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.

The resolution was the result of an effort undertaken as a means to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American society. SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs Steve McDonald said, “We greatly appreciate the United States Senate’s recognition of the important role classic car restoration serves in our country. As Americans gather at car cruises and other events in conjunction with ‘Collector Car Appreciation Day’ on July 9, these vital contributions will be honored and preserved.”

“At a time when governmental intrusion, intentional or otherwise, is often negatively affecting the hobby, this is a positive move,” added Tom Cox, president of Southwest Virginia Car Council. “The automotive hobby has many tentacles that support jobs, manufacturing, small business and families. It’s nice to see some official recognition of the beneficial impact automobiles and our hobby have made to America and the world.”

HEY, THAT’S MY CAR!

Show ’Em What You’ve Got!

Whether it has been handed down through the family, an ultimate barn find or a vehicle that just needed your own personal touch, the SAN would like to give you an opportunity to share your passion for your car and truck with the rest of the automotive hobby. Each month, a vehicle is selected to be featured in Driving Force as well as on the SEMA Action Network website, www.semasan.com.

To submit your photo and 200–300 word story, visit www.semasan.com and click on the “Hey, That’s My Car!” link on the homepage (the SAN will contact you if additional photos are needed).

Contact Ethan Landesman at ethanl@sema.org if you have any questions or need assistance with uploading your images.

CLUB SPOTLIGHT

California Car Clubs Rally for the Cause
Annual Legislative Conference Convened in Sacramento

In working with the SEMA Action Network to ensure that California enthusiasts have a voice in Sacramento, the Association of California Car Clubs (ACCC) consists of thousands of hobbyists throughout the state who advocate on California laws and policies regarding collector and classic automobiles.

Formed in 1972, the ACCC is a volunteer organization of regional representatives who keep member clubs, individuals and business members across the state informed of issues that impact the hobby.

This past May 5–6, the ACCC held their annual legislative conference in Sacramento to ensure that state officials are responsive to the concerns of hobbyists. The conference allowed automotive hobbyists to discuss mutual issues and challenges directly with legislators, the Air Resources Board, the Bureau of Automotive Repair, the California Highway Patrol, the Department of Motor Vehicles and other government officials.

The SAN thanks the ACCC for taking a leadership role in protecting this great American hobby in California. For more information on the ACCC, visit www.acccdefender.org.

JUNE 2010 SAN CLUB EVENTS

CALIFORNIA
June 5, Pleasanton
Summer Get Together
Sponsor: Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

June 5, Chino
3rd Annual Steve McQueen Car Show
Sponsor: 356 Club of Southern California
Info: www.porsche356club.org

June 6, Van Nuys
Eleventh Annual All General Motors Car Show at Woodley Park
Sponsor: Los Angeles Chapter of the Buick Club of America
Info: www.buickclub.org/losangeles

June 6, Freemont
20th Annual Mopar Rally
Sponsor: Mopar Alley
Info: www.moparalley.org

June 26, Rancho Cordova
Mopar Day in the Park 17: All Mopar Car Show and Swap
Sponsor: Capital City Mopars
Info: www.capitalcitymopars.com or 916/962-2655

June 26, Lodi
Picnic at the Grove: Street Rod Car Show
Sponsor: Franklin Syndicate Auto Club
Info: www.franklinsyndicate.com

COLORADO
June 4–6, Loveland
13th Colorado Nationals
Sponsor: Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

June 19, Aurora
Third Annual Cruzin’ Havana Car Show & Poker Run
Sponsor: Stevinson Toyota East & Scion
Info: www.onhavanastreet.com

CONNECTICUT
June 4, Waterford
23rd Annual British by the Sea
Sponsor: Connecticut MG Club
Info: http://mgclub.homestead.com

IDAHO
June 18–19, Coeur d’Alene
Car d’Alene Cruise and Car Show
Info: 208/667-5986

ILLINOIS
June 5, Homer Glen
9th Annual Spring Fling Car Show
Sponsor: Lemont Classic Car Club
Info: 708/301-8899 or smoscato167@cs.com

June 19–20, South Barrington
6th Annual Dadfest Car and Bike Show
Info: www.willowcreek.org/dadfest

INDIANA
June 11–13, Indianapolis
22nd Hot Rod Nationals
Sponsor: Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

June 19, Flora
2010 Hog-Jog Cruise In
Sponsor: Idlers Car Club
Info: 574/967-4666 or idlerscc@yahoo.com

KANSAS
June 12, Garnett
16th Annual Lake Garnett Cruisers Auto & Motorcycle Show
Info: www.lakegarnettcruisers.com

MASSACHUSETTS
June 6, Danvers
17th Annual Marque Antique Auto Show
Info: Ron at 978/979-1422 or www.hubcapcafe.com/calendar/2010/99224.htm

June 13, Maynard
Autofest 2010
Sponsor: Maynard Area Auto Club
Info: 978/897-3445 or http://clubs.hemmings.com/frameset.cfm?club=maynardaac

June 19, Woburn
3rd Annual Open House
Sponsor: Chop Shop Customs
Info: www.chop-shopcustoms.com

June 26–27, Topsfield
Car Show, Kruse Car Auction, Flea Market and Auto Corral
Sponsor: North Shore Old Car Club
Info: www.nsocc.com

MISSOURI
June 18–20, Branson
38th Annual Rods and Relics Rod Run
Sponsor: Rods and Relics Car Club
Info: www.rodsnrelics.com

NEW MEXICO
June 19, Rio Rancho
15th Annual Mopar Fest Car Show
Sponsor: Mopar Muscle Club of New Mexico
Info: www.moparclub.com

NEW YORK
June 3–5, Canandaigua
AACA Eastern Spring Meet
Sponsor: Genesee Valley Region AACA
Info: www.aaca.org

June 25–27, Rhinebeck
19th East Coast Nationals
Sponsor: Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.good-guys.com

PENNSYLVANIA
June 4–6, Carlisle
Third Annual National Meet and Car Show at the All FORD Nationals
Sponsor: Lincoln Mark VII Club
Info: 267/825-3017 or http://TheLincolnMarkVIIClub.org

June 15, Harrisburg
5th Annual Motorsports Day at the Capitol
Sponsor: PA House Motorsports Caucus
Info: www.aacamuseum.org/events/event.aspx?id=290
June 18–20, Prospect Pittsburgh Parts-A-Rama
Info: www.pittsburghparts-a-rama.com

UTAH
June 11–12, Bountiful
Cruisin’ the Boulevard Coats for Kids
Sponsor: Bountiful Rotary Club
Info: 801/557-8572 or thompsonterry7@comcast.net

June 26, Salt Lake City
8th Annual Cruisin’ for a Cure Classic Car Show
Sponsor: Utah’s Cruisin’ for a Cure Inc. & Stampede for Men’s Health
Info: www.utahcruisinforacure.org

VIRGINIA
June 11–12, Newport News
15th Annual National Truck Show and Club
Sponsor: The Li’l Red Express & Warlock Owners Club
Info: 757/875-5270 or skipgibbs@cox.net

ALBERTA, CANADA
June 12–13, Wetaskiwin
History Road: The Ultimate Car Show
Sponsor: Reynolds-Alberta Museum
Info: 780/361-1351 or melissa.daoust@gov.ab.ca

Early July 2010 EVENTS

IOWA
July 2–4, Des Moines
19th Heartland Nationals
Sponsor: Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Info: www.heartlandnats.com

UTAH
July 1–3, Logan
Cache Valley Cruise-In
Sponsor: Cache Valley Cruising Association
Info: www.cachevalleycruisein.net

Click to view the newsletter as it was printed (2.77MB)

THE TAX MAN COMMETH
States Look to Raise Revenue on the Backs of Antique Vehicle Hobbyists

It’s that dreaded time of the year known collectively around the country as tax time. With state coffers depleted, the government in Washington, D.C., isn’t the only one that’s after your hard-earned money. State governments are increasingly looking at collector and antique cars as a piggy bank they can crack open when they need to feed their bloated budgets. In Michigan, the birthplace of the American automobile industry, collectors and hobbyists take deserved pride in preserving these relics of a bygone era for future generations. It is ironic then, that the state which spawned these historic works of art is now looking to capitalize on their continued existence by increasing taxes and fees on them.

Legislation (HB 5897) introduced this year in the Michigan Legislature threatens to change the $30 registration fee for historic motor vehicles (renewable every 10 years) to an annual fee. Under current Michigan law, the owner of an historic vehicle may also choose to use restored authentic Michigan plates from the same year as the vehicle’s model year for a one-time fee of $35. The bill would increase that one-time fee as well, to an annual registration fee of $30. Under the bill, each of the registrations would come up for renewal every year on the vehicle owner’s birthday. “Supporters of this bill are ignoring the fact that these older cars are infrequently driven; they are second or third vehicles deserving of reduced registration fees,” said SAN Director Ethan Landesman. “On the vehicle registration fee alone, this policy represents a 1,000% fee increase over 10 years.”

Other states have joined the parade as well. The SAN has tracked the introduction of a variety of new state bills which seek to raise taxes and fees, create vehicle registration surcharges and increase inspection fees to pay for new projects. States raising money isn’t the only concern, though. There has also been an uptick in the number of bills introduced which would negatively impact the ability of enthusiasts to partake in the historic and classic vehicle hobby. The SAN has been actively fighting numerous anti-hobby inoperable vehicle bills that would limit your right to work on cars on private property, scrappage bills that would destroy classic cars and parts, and exhaust system bills that would make restorations dramatically more difficult. Fortunately, we also have some friends in government around the country who are active in supporting the hobby through legislation.

It is important to remain vigilant and informed so that together as a hobby we can continue to create victories over bad legislation that threatens our way of life. To stay up-to-date on all the legislation affecting the car hobby, visit www.SEMASAN.com frequently to stay informed, and protect your passion.
CAUCUS CORNER

Each month Driving Force features members of the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus. The SEMA-supported caucus is a bipartisan group of state lawmakers, nearly 400 strong, whose common thread is a love and appreciation for automobiles. Here are its newest members:

Arkansas
Senator Shane Broadway
Representative Allen Kerr
Representative Barbara Nix

Florida
Representative Ed Hooper

Indiana
Senator Travis Holdman
Representative Bill Friend
Representative Nancy Michael

Iowa
Representative Linda Upmeyer

Kansas
Senator Mike Petersen

Kentucky
Representative Tim Couch
Representative Ted Edmonds
Representative Richard Henderson
Representative Ruth Ann Palumbo

Maine
Representative Gary Knight
Representative Linda Sanborn

Maryland
Delegate Wayne Norman

Mississippi
Representative Scott DeLano

South Dakota
Representative Thomas Brunner

Virginia
Delegate Ron Villanueva

Washington
Senator Jim Honeyford
Representative Jan Angel
Representative Tom Campbell
Representative Marcie Maxwell
SAN ON SOCIAL NETWORKING

The SAN has expanded to the social-networking medium! You can follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/semasan and join our Facebook group by searching for SEMA Action Network on Facebook.

The Facebook group will provide a great way for SAN members to get the latest news and information from the SAN and connect with other like-minded enthusiasts about current issues in the hobby. Get online and join today!
LEGISLATIVE QUICK HITS

Colorado Emissions Exemption: SAN-opposed legislation that sought to reset to ’59 the latest model year at which a vehicle is excluded from the emissions testing process has been “postponed indefinitely” by the legislature. Currently, model-year vehicles ’75 and older are exempted. Colorado’s current emissions-test exemption recognizes the minimal impact of older cars on vehicle emissions and air quality. These older vehicles are generally well-maintained and infrequently driven, constitute a small portion of the overall vehicle population and are a poor source from which to look for emissions reduction.

Kansas Inoperable Vehicles: Support for a SAN-opposed bill that would allow cities to enforce “nuisance-abatement” procedures by notifying affected property owners by use of first-class mail instead of certified mail (with a return receipt) has been withdrawn. There will be no action on the bill this year. The Kansas jurisdiction behind the bill’s introduction has decided to withdraw its support until there is another method to notify property owners of enforcement action. Nuisance-abatement laws are often used by cities to force removal of inoperable vehicles, including parts cars, stored on private property by car collectors. The SAN opposed the bill because without actual and verified notification, owners could risk removal of valuable collector cars and parts, especially when they are not at home to receive a first-class mailing.

Nebraska Abandoned Vehicles: Legislation that would have expanded the definition of “abandoned motor vehicle” to include vehicles that were left unattended for more than six hours on private property without valid plates, title or permit will not be considered in the 2010 legislative session. The bill also sought to include vehicles that are inoperable, partially dismantled, wrecked, junked or discarded. Under current law, a vehicle is not considered to be abandoned on private property until it is left unattended for more than seven days. Motor vehicles are defined as abandoned for the purpose of allowing state and local authorities to remove them from private property. Given the opposition raised by the SAN and the Nebraska vehicle hobbyist community, the bill sponsor will make a series of amendments to protect hobbyists before he reintroduces the legislation next year.

Ohio Street Rods/Custom Vehicles: After being postponed several times, SEMA-model legislation to create a vehicle registration and titling classification for street rods and custom vehicles and provide for special license plates for these vehicles was considered by the Ohio House Transportation Committee. The bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. The bill allows kit cars and replica vehicles to be assigned a certificate of title bearing the same model-year designation that the body of the vehicle was constructed to resemble.

Oklahoma Older Motor Vehicles: The SAN is supporting a bill in the Oklahoma Legislature to reduce the annual registration fee for vehicles 25 years old and older to $5. Under current law, these vehicles are assessed at a rate of $15 per year.

Utah Aftermarket Exhaust Systems: The SAN defeated a bill to ban the use of most aftermarket exhaust systems. Under a substitute bill, all vehicles would have been required to be equipped with an exhaust system that is “installed by the original manufacturer of the vehicle and is not modified; or meets specifications equivalent to the muffler installed by the original manufacturer of the vehicle and is not modified.” Among other things, the measure ignored the fact that aftermarket exhaust systems are designed to make vehicles run more efficiently without increasing emissions; did not supply law enforcement with a clear standard to enforce, allowing them to make subjective judgments on whether or not a modified exhaust system is in violation; and would have made it difficult for hobbyists to replace factory exhaust systems with more durable, better-performing options.

Washington Scrappage: The SAN again helped turn back legislation in the Washington Legislature that would have implemented a vehicle scrappage program for passenger vehicles more than 15 years old. Given the outcry of the SAN and members of the Washington vehicle hobbyist community, the House Finance Committee chose not to consider the bill before the cut-off deadline. Under the bill, qualifying vehicles would have had to be registered for a 24-month period and in satisfactory operating condition. Replacement vehicles purchased under the plan would have been required to have an U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highway gasoline mileage rating of at least 30 mpg. Participants in the program were to be granted a sales-tax exemption for the first $2,000 of tax paid on the purchase price. All trade-in vehicles would have been destroyed, regardless of their historical value or collector interest.

Washington Inoperable Vehicles: A version of SEMA-model legislation to prohibit cities or towns from enforcing an ordinance, development regulation, zoning regulation or administrative practice that prevents automobile collectors from pursuing their hobby did not receive committee consideration before the legislature’s deadline. Under the bill, junked, wrecked or inoperable vehicles, including parts cars, stored on private property, would have required screening from public view, if required by local law.
OFF ROAD NEWS
Tell the Forest Service to Keep Your Trails Open!

The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) is the steward and manager of more than 193 million acres of public lands included in the 155 national forests and 20 grasslands that make up the National Forest System. These vast areas are managed in accordance with the “land management planning rule,” which among other things, has not changed since 1982. The plan needs to balance demands for multiple uses, from recreational access to forest restoration, timber harvesting, mining and wildlife protection. Previous attempts to update the planning rule were not used due to the complexity of the changes (2000) or were invalidated by a federal judge (2008).

The Forest Service is seeking to engage the public in the planning process. This presents both opportunity and danger for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts because the environmental lobby is working hard to influence the rule to close off more and larger areas of public land to motorized recreation. On the other hand, it also gives OHV enthusiasts the ability to make their voices heard and help keep public lands open to responsible off-road recreation.

The Forest Service is now hosting a series of roundtable discussions in April to gather additional public feedback. Unless OHV enthusiasts take part and let the Forest Service know that this is a responsible, family-focused hobby that deserves access to public lands, these changes could negatively affect access to OHV recreation areas managed by the Forest Service.

Regional Round Tables
April 6, 2010–Pacific Northwest Region (Region 6), Portland, Oregon
April 6, 2010–Pacific Southwest Region (Region 5), Sacramento, California
April 8, 2010–Intermountain Region (Region 4), Salt Lake City, Utah
April 12, 2010–Rocky Mountain Region (Region 2), Lakewood, Colorado
April 13, 2010–Northern Region (Region 1), Missoula, Montana
April 13, 2010–Northern Region (Region 1), Billings, Montana
April 13, 2010–Northern Region (Region 1), Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
April 13, 2010–Alaska Region (Region 10), Juneau, Alaska
April 14, 2010–Rocky Mountain Region (Region 2), Cheyenne, Wyoming
April 16, 2010–Southern Region (Region 8), Atlanta, Georgia
April 21, 2010–Rocky Mountain Region (Region 2), Rapid City, South Dakota
April 28, 2010–Southwestern Region (Region 3), Albuquerque, New Mexico
April 28, 2010–Eastern Region (Region 9), Chicago, Illinois

For an expanded list of roundtable events and for information on meetings times and locations, visit www.fs.usda.gov/planningrule.

HEY, THAT’S MY CAR!
Raucous Rambler

1969 AMC SC/Rambler
Owner: David Furlin
Michigan

When I started working at AMC in 1973 I met a coworker who wanted to sell his ’69 SC/Rambler. I was pretty interested so I went to speak with him about it and ended up making arrangements to see the car. Wow! The car was quite a mess as it was parked in a chicken barn without a cover on it. The seller started it up for me, and I was surprised to hear that it had open headers! I was interested despite the mess and he lived out in the country, so we went for a little ride. He had used the SC for racing at a track, so it still had the racing slicks on it and was a wild ride. The price was right at $800, so I pulled the trigger on the purchase and it was mine!

I had the car for two days and then boom, the engine locked up. The next day I went to work and told the guy I had bought the car from what happened. He looked at me in disbelief, so we went back to my garage and tore down the engine to find that the camshaft had broken in half, fell into crank and snapped a connecting rod. He felt bad and returned $300 of the dollars that I had paid him. With that money, I picked up another 390ci engine, dropped it in the car and away we went.

Since then, the car has been painted twice, the carpet was replaced (but I kept the rest of the interior all original) and I rebuilt the engine last year with a roller cam, lifters, new rocker arms and forged pistons. After the rebuild, I had the car dyno’d, and it put out 322 hp to the rear wheels. The old SC is quite special to me since I’ve had it for so long and worked at the place that built it. Next winter I plan to give it a new paint job—the last one I hope.

NEWLY INTRODUCED LEGISLATION

EMISSIONS
Connecticut HB 5461: Provides additional time for the repair and free re-inspection of a motor vehicle in the case of “economic hardship of the owner” when the vehicle has failed a smog check.

FEES
Rhode Island HB 7734: Imposes a $40 surcharge on passenger-car and light-truck registrations to fund highway maintenance and commuter rail operations, transportation services and for the maintenance and repair of local roads and streets.

INOPERABLE
Hawaii HR 73/HCR 132: Urges the U.S. Congress to pass another “Cash for Clunkers” program in its second session.

Missouri HB 2247: Requires that an officer who finds an abandoned-vehicle attempt to contact the registered owner to determine if the owner knows that the vehicle has been abandoned and inform them that if the vehicle is not retrieved that it will be towed.

Rhode Island SB 2393: Requires a salvage yard to obtain dismantler license plates for vehicles that they transport and prohibits the transporting of salvage vehicles by anyone other than a licensed salvage yard.

Alabama HB 619: Requires a public forum and joint resolution before a junkyard can be licensed to operate in a municipality; provides for a county to regulate junkyards in the police jurisdiction of the municipality after licensure.

INSURANCE
Massachusetts HB 884: Prohibits insurance companies from dictating where a policy holder can get their vehicle glass repaired; prohibits any act or practice designed to intimidate, threaten or coerce any person to use a particular vehicle glass repair shop.

LAND USE
Minnesota HB 3094/SB 2916: Allows for a snowmobile or ATV that is at least 25 years old to be registered under a one-time collector unlimited-use registration exemption provision; creates the Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Trail; allows the Commissioner of Natural Resources to acquire the lands known as Lake Vermillion Recreation Area and turn it into a state park.

LIGHTS
Ohio HB 204: Allows daytime running lights to satisfy the requirement of using headlights whenever precipitation necessitates the use of windshield wipers.

MISCELLANEOUS
Kentucky HB 470: Prohibits license plates and registration from transferring with the transfer of ownership of a vehicle.

Kentucky HB 565: Eliminates the requirement that copies of motor-vehicle title records be kept in microfilm format.

Michigan HB 5913: Requires that each passenger in a vehicle manufactured after January 1, 1965 wear a seat belt; current law only requires the operator and front-seat passenger to wear a seat belt.

Rhode Island HB 7664: Prohibits the sale of a motor vehicle equipped with lead wheel weights; prohibits the installation of lead wheel weights and requires lead wheel weights to be replaced with non-lead wheel weights during servicing.

TAXES
Minnesota SB 2872: Exempts from taxes parts and supplies, including paint, that are purchased and used by a vehicle repair or bodyshop.

Oklahoma HB 3024: Permits a tax credit for medium- and low-speed electric vehicles.

Washington SB 6712: Extends the expiring tax incentives for certain clean alternative- fuel vehicles.

TINTING
Florida SB 2380: Exempts from window sun-screening restrictions vehicles that are owned or leased by private investigative agencies that are used in homeland security functions, executive protection activities, undercover, covert or surveillance operations involving child abductions, convicted sex offenders, insurance fraud or missing persons or property or investigative activities in which evidence is being obtained for civil or criminal court proceedings.

WARRANTY
Florida HB 1379/SB 2618: Regulates service-agreement companies (companies that offer service agreements to consumers when their vehicle’s warranty has run out); prohibits the companies from misrepresenting the term or extent of a vehicle’s existing warranty.

APRIL 2010 SAN CLUB EVENTS
Arizona

April 30–May 2, Tucson
36th Annual Rodder’s Days
Sponsor: Tucson Street Rod Association
Information: 520/425-0251 or www.tucsonstreetrodassociation.com

California

April 2, Yucaipa
Family Cruise Night
Sponsor: Past Pleasures Car Club of Yucaipa
Information: www.pastpleasurescarclub.com

April 9–11, Del Mar
10th Annual Goodguys Del Mar Nationals
Information: www.delmarnationals.com

April 9–11, Sonoma
2010 Vintage Volvo Challenge
Sponsor: IPD, Ackerman’s Volvo Service & RSI
Information: alanb@alanberrydesign.com

April 11, Rancho Cucamonga
2nd Annual Chaffey College Car Show
Sponsor: Chaffey College Car Club
Information: 310/512-3379 or Michael.keller@honeywell.com

April 24, Pomona
31st Annual A.H.A. Fun Under the Sun
Sponsor: The Association of Handcrafted Automobiles
Information: 951/780-9332 or www.replicarclub.com

Connecticut

April 11, Stafford
25th Annual Ty-Rods All Automotive Swap Meet
Information: 860/684-2783

April 18, Wallingford
CT Street Rod Spring Dust-off/NSRA Day
Host: Connecticut Street Rod Association
Information: 203/742-0413 or www.csra.org

Georgia

April 10, Marietta
Swap Meet 2010
Sponsor: Georgia Street Rod Association
Information: www.gsra.com

Idaho

April 3, Boise
16th Annual Firebird Swap Meet & Warm-up
Information: 208/938-8986 or race@firebirdonline.com

Illinois

April 18, Elmhurst
27th Annual Car Show and Swap Meet
Sponsor: Northern Illinois Region WPC Club
Information: 630/721-0662

Kentucky

April 25, Louisville
2010 NSRA Appreciation Day
Sponsor: Okolona Street Rods and NSRA
Information: www.okolonastreetrods.com

Massachusetts

April 6, Reading
Club Meeting
Sponsor: Massachusetts Street Rod Association
Information: www.massstreetrods.com

April 18, Fitchburg
40th Annual Swap Meet and Car Show
Information: 781/272-1114 or V8fleemarket@yahoo.com

Nevada

April 8–10, Laughlin
23rd Annual Gambler Classic River Run
Sponsor: The Street Machines of Rochester
Information: www.gamblerclassicriverrun.com

New Jersey

April 24, Heightstown
St. Anthony’s Classic Car Show
Sponsor: The Slant Six Car Club
Information: 917/204-0294 or shineandshow@verizon.net

New York

April 9–11, Rochester
Motor Mania
Sponsor: The Street Machines of Rochester
Information: 585/352-5377

North Carolina

April 8–11, Charlotte
Spring Meet
Sponsor: Hornets Nest Region AACA
Information: www.charlotte-autofair.com

Oklahoma

April 9–11, Oklahoma City
NSRA Southwest Street Rod Nationals
Sponsor: NSRA
Information: www.nsra-usa.com

Pennsylvania

April 21–25, Carlisle
Spring Carlisle Collector Flea Market/Corral/Auction
Information: 717/243-7855

Rhode Island

April 24, Kingston
South Shore Street Rods Annual NSRA Inspection
Information: 774/444-3096

Utah

April 10, Clearfield
Elmer’s Auto Clinic 5th Annual Car Show
Information: 801/773-0270 or elmersautoclinic@hotmail.com

Wisconsin

April 24–25, Jefferson
Spring Jefferson Show & Swap Meet
Sponsor: Madison Classics
Information: www.madisonclassics.com/car-shows/spring-jefferson.php

Alberta, Canada

April 18, Calgary
Nifty Fifty’s Spring Thaw
Sponsor: Nifty Fifty’s Ford Club
Information: 403/242-9088 or www.niftyfiftysfordclub.ca/pages/springthawcurrent.htm

April 31–May 1, Red Deer
Red Deer Swap Meet
Sponsor: Central Alberta Vintage Auto Club
Information: 403/556-7450 or swapmeetbarb@shaw.ca

Early May 2010 Events

Maine

May 2, Waldoboro
Cruisin’ to Graduation Car & Motorcycle Show
Sponsor: Medomak Valley High School
Information: 207/542-0848 or eann@bbwire.com
Attention Car Clubs, Event Organizers and Enthusiasts: Put SAN on Your Mailing List!

W e like to know what’s going on with SAN clubs and enthusiasts across the country; what charity events you’re involved in; when and where the rod runs, car shows, trail rides, rallies and tech meetings are held; and what legislative and regulatory issues concern club members and individual enthusiasts.

One of the best ways to keep us abreast of what’s going on and what’s important to the vehicle hobbies nationwide is for us to receive your club newsletters and updates. Please consider placing SEMA on your mailing list.
You can send correspondence to Attn: Ethan Landesman, SEMA, 1317 F St. NW, Ste. 500, Washington, DC, 20004-1105 or via e-mail at ethanl@sema.org.

CLUB SPOTLIGHT

Car Clubs Honored for Outstanding Community Service
Four SAN Member Clubs Win the Annual Eagle One Award

Practicing the Golden Rule has won four SAN member car clubs the Eagle One Golden Rule Award for conducting the most outstanding community service program in their region during 2009. Clubs honored with the coveted award for providing exemplary support to community and charitable causes were:

Early Mustang Club of Colorado, Denver, Colorado–West
Central Nebraska Car Club, Kearny, Nebraska–Midwest
Lancaster County Corvette Club, Lancaster, Pennsylvania–East
Downshifters of Brooklyn, Palmetto, Florida–South

In recognition, Eagle One and associate sponsor Valvoline made cash donations to the favorite charities of each club, provided them with a generous supply of car-care products and motor oil for fundraising purposes and a custom plaque.

The Grand Prize winner for the most compassionate achievement was the Early Mustang Club of Colorado, which received $1,500. A $500 donation was made for each of the three other clubs. The Denver club donated $25,000 to the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships to children of servicemen who were killed or permanently disabled while serving our country.

“For the past 17 years, Eagle One has been proud to reward car clubs for the commendable work they do in their communities while actively engaged in the preservation of one of our country’s greatest heritages, the automobile,” said Rob McCarter, Eagle One brand manager.

Click to view the newsletter as it was printed

Meet Tony Mendoza
California Legislator and Car Enthusiast Takes a Stand Against Illegal Street Racing

California Assembly member Tony Mendoza, born in South Central Los Angeles, is the second youngest of nine children. As a young man living in a single-parent home, he witnessed firsthand the struggles of working families and the opportunities a good education provides.

Passionate about education, he was an elementary school teacher in East Los Angeles for more than 10 years and was involved with the California Teachers Association and the National Education Association. In addition to working diligently on education, health care and family issues, he is focused on making the roads a safer place through measures that oppose illegal street racing.

First elected to the California State Assembly in 2006, Mendoza represents the 56th California Assembly District, which includes the communities of Artesia, Buena Park, Cerritos, Hawaiian Gardens, Los Nietos, Norwalk, Santa Fe Springs, South Whittier/unincorporated Whittier, portions of East Whittier and Lakewood. Last year, Assemblymember Mendoza joined forces with the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus, which was founded in 2005 and is supported by SEMA. The caucus is a non-partisan group of state legislators whose common thread is a love and appreciation for automobiles.

Working with state legislatures in recent years, the SAN has sought legislation to overhaul existing statutes and create brand-new programs to safeguard and expand the automotive hobby. These efforts have brought a series of significant legislative and regulatory accomplishments for the specialty-equipment industry on issues ranging from equipment standards to registration classifications to emissions-test policy and hobbyist rights. The State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus now numbers approximately 400 total members from all 50 states.

Driving Force recently spoke with Mendoza about his work in the legislature.

Driving Force: In addition to being a tenured elementary school teacher, you were the first Latino member of the Artesia City Council and, at 26, the youngest mayor in the history of Artesia. What attracted you to public service at such an early age?

Tony Mendoza: I wanted to make my community safer and strengthen local neighborhoods by providing options for families through the development of parks and recreation centers. I grew up in South Central Los Angeles, where the gang element was strong. I wanted children in my new home town of Artesia to be free of those problems and have alternatives to that lifestyle. Being involved and active as a teacher and serving on boards, I understand that positive change can happen through policy.

DF: SEMA has been fortunate to partner with legislators such as you many times in the past on key issues. SEMA promotes safe and legal alternatives to illegal street racing through its Racers Against Street Racing program. How did you become aware of and concerned with illegal street racing in California and in your district?

TM: Public safety has always been one of my main concerns, and street racing can leave devastation in its wake for families in my district and neighboring communities. I recognized the problems it creates in Ontario and San Diego, for example, because of their geographic location and design. Both cities have large industrial zones with straightaway thoroughfares that stretch for miles and are optimum for illegal street racing. I worked with the Ontario and San Diego police departments to ensure that the resources they need are continuously funded to drive programs geared at monitoring and apprehending street racers. Each department had noted increased activity, including fatalities, as funding for their respective street racing programs declined.

DF: California and local governments have reacted to illegal street racing with a variety of new laws. They have increased fines and jail sentences for street racers; made it illegal to be a spectator at an illegal street race; and impounded and crushed cars involved in street racing. What do you think needs to be done to further curb this dangerous activity?

TM: Incrementally, each of these methods has helped curb illegal street-racing activity. Education on the dangers of street racing and the continued promotion of both the consequences and legal ramifications will help further lower incidents. Being able to continue to fund abatement programs with the proceeds from fines will also benefit law-enforcement efforts.

DF: Beyond law enforcement and deterrence, how do we encourage street racers to take their racing to the track?

TM: We need to work to legitimize nonprofessional racing through programs and events sponsored by auto manufacturers, by the Society of Automotive Engineers and by creating statewide racing tournaments at public race courses. SEMA’s Racers Against Street Racing program is a great example of how we can try to engage youth and channel their passion for racing to safe and legal track alternatives.

DF: In November, you had the opportunity to attend the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The Show is the single largest assembly of specialty automotive manufacturers, retailers and distributors in the United States, many of which are based in your home of Southern California. Please share with us your experience and impressions from the Show.

TM: It was a real treat to be among other auto enthusiasts. As a fan of car shows, I was amazed by the creativity and ingenuity of the products made by SEMA members. To see the innovation of the automotive industry on display and in motion, even after 100 years, was truly inspiring. My recent visit to Egge Machine Co. was likewise a treat and a great opportunity to see firsthand the passion that members of this community have in their industry and hobby.

CAUCUS CORNER

Each month Driving Force will feature members of the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus. The SEMA-supported caucus is a bipartisan group of state lawmakers, nearly 400 strong, whose common thread is a love and appreciation for automobiles.

Here are its newest members:

VIRGINIA
Delegate Mark Keam

VIRGINIA
Delegate Glenn Oder

VIRGINIA
Delegate Sam Nixon

NEW MEXICO
Representative Bill R. Rehm

LEGISLATIVE QUICK HITS

Iowa Antiques: The SAN is supporting Iowa legislation which would allow antique vehicle owners to register limited-use vehicles for a reduced fee. Under the measure, owners who agree to use their vehicles for hobbyist purposes and occasional transportation (not to exceed 1,000 miles annually) would be charged an annual $5 fee. All other antique vehicle owners would be charged a standard $70 fee for a two-year registration.

Kansas Inoperable Vehicles: Legislation that would allow cities to enforce “nuisance abatement” procedures by notifying affected property owners by use of first-class mail instead of certified mail (with a return receipt) has been introduced in the Kansas Legislature. Nuisance abatement laws are often used by cities to force removal of inoperable vehicles, including parts cars, stored on private property by car collectors. In opposing the bill, the SAN has argued that certified mail with a signed receipt provides proof that a property owner has been properly alerted to a future enforcement action.

Maryland New Car Emissions Exemption: The SAN is supporting legislation to exempt newer motor vehicles from the state’s mandatory emissions inspection program. Under the bill, a vehicle would be exempt from mandatory emissions test requirements for four years after the vehicle’s model year or first registration date, whichever is earlier. Maryland already exempts older (pre-’77 model year) motor vehicles from emissions tests.

Mississippi Nitrous Oxide: The SAN is seeking to amend a bill to outlaw all vehicles equipped with nitrous-oxide systems. Using an approach adopted by other states, the amended legislation would allow the system if disconnected (or canisters removed) while in use on public roadways.

New Jersey Street Rods: New Jersey has reintroduced SEMA-model legislation to create a vehicle registration classification for street rods and custom vehicles and provide for special license plates for these vehicles. In the 2009 legislative session, the bill was approved by the New Jersey Senate Transportation Committee but not considered by the full Senate prior to adjournment. The bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. The bill allows kit cars and replica vehicles to be assigned a certificate of title bearing the same model-year designation as the body of the vehicle it most closely resembles.

New Jersey Historic Vehicles: The SAN is again supporting legislation to allow historic vehicles to be used for pleasure driving one day per week. The bill did not receive committee consideration last session. Under current law, owners of properly registered historic motor vehicles are permitted to operate them solely for exhibition and educational purposes. In order to be designated as historic, a vehicle must be at least 25 years old and owned as a collector’s item.

Ohio Street Rods/Custom Vehicles: SEMA-model legislation to create a vehicle registration and titling classification for street rods and custom vehicles and provide for special license plates for these vehicles is pending before the Ohio House Transportation Committee. The bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. The bill allows kit cars and replica vehicles to be assigned a certificate of title bearing the same model-year designation that the body of the vehicle was constructed to resemble.

Virginia Exhaust Noise: At the SAN’s urging, the House Transportation Committee rejected a bill to ban the sale of “any aftermarket exhaust system component” that would cause the vehicle to produce “excessive or unusual noise.” The SAN recommended that Virginia adopt reasonable noise decibel limits for modified exhaust systems which can be verified through an easy-to-administer test standard. In California, for example, a SAN-supported provision is made for the testing of vehicle exhaust noise to a standard adopted by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) to an established noise limit of 95 decibels (SAE J1169). To date, this procedure has been enacted in California, Washington state, Maine and Montana.

West Virginia Antiques: The SAN is again supporting legislation that would exclude owners of antique cars from the scope of vehicles required to pay any taxes or fees related to the registration or titling of these vehicles. Last session, the bill did not receive committee consideration before the legislature adjourned for the year.

West Virginia Exhaust Noise: The SAN is again opposing legislation to provide that the noise from a motor-vehicle exhaust system deemed “disturbing or unreasonably loud” constitutes disturbing the peace. The bill did not receive committee consideration in the last session before the legislature adjourned for the year.

YOU’VE GOT LEGISLATION!
SEMASAN.com Has All the Info You Need

Legislators from around the country have been busy over the past couple of months, and consequently, so has the SAN. We have plowed through thousands of bills and identified hundreds that may be of interest to hobbyists. The most pressing of these bills result in Action Alerts being shot out to SAN members and highlighted in the Driving Force. However, given limited print space, we have expanded this bill-tracking effort into an online compilation provided at no cost, 24/7, at www.semasan.com. Along the left-hand column of the SAN site you will find, in red underlined letters, the words “MY HOBBY.” Simply find your hobby in the list, click once and you are transported to a list of legislation pertaining to your particular automotive hobby. For a wider range of issues affecting your state, simply follow the same steps in the lower box entitled “MY STATE” to view a regularly updated resource on legislation in your neck of the woods.

Some of the bills listed on the site will never progress past introduction; others will go on to become the laws of tomorrow. The period following a bill’s introduction is critical to its success or failure. It is at this time, immediately following introduction, that the SAN aims to inform enthusiasts and encourage their participation in the legislative process through e-mails and phone calls to their state representatives. Such correspondence has a proven impact on the decisions of legislators.

Visit www.semasan.com today! The information on this site will provide you with the tools you need to help effect real change and aid in the common goal of protecting our passion. Please contact Ashley Ailsworth at ashleya@sema.org if you have any questions. She would be happy to provide you with the bill’s full text, current status and committee information.

HEY, THAT’S MY CAR!
One Happenin’ Half-Ton

1946 Studebaker M-5
Owner: Randy Wilkin
Hillboro, Ohio

I first saw an M series (built 1940 to 1948) Studebaker at a local car show and immediately fell in love with them. Living in Ohio, it was nearly impossible to find an example to buy and restore that wasn’t completely rusted out. After years of normal searching, the Internet happened and eBay started its old-car marketplace. When I started searching with this new technology, what came up on eBay was not a Studebaker pickup, but a 11/2-ton dual rear-wheel flatbed. It came complete with a caved-in top, missing grilles and basically all the trim missing. It was solid, though, with only surface rust and a price starting at $99 with no reserve. I made the opening bid of $99 and with no other bids forthcoming, I won the truck! Now all I had to do was drive 2,000 miles round-trip to get it! I borrowed a friend’s trailer and my wife’s Grand Cherokee and set out to collect my prize.

I was able to trade an old street rod of mine for some components I needed for the build. My Studebaker’s cab was installed onto a full-size Chevy half-ton frame, which made it easy to install a 350 Chevy V8.

I mated that to a 700-R4 overdrive transmission with a lock-up converter and 3:73 12-bolt limited-slip GM rearend. Also in the deal came power steering and power disc brakes. I then added Vintage Air conditioning and Dakota Digital gauges and had the interior done by Rick Futrell in Dayton, Ohio. The bed was crafted from new sheet metal; the tailgate is made out of Douglas aircraft DC 8 thrust reverser pistons; and the rear bumper is an aircraft torque tube. All the bodywork and paint was done by Fred Kidder Jr., and he did an outstanding job with what he had to work with. I had help from the many people I work with who made small parts for the project.

Have your car or truck featured in a future issue of Driving Force. Submit your high-resolution photos online at www.semasan.com.

CLUB SPOTLIGHT
Five Decades of Safe Racing
McCulley Family Racing Teaches Safe Alternatives to Illegal Street Racing

McCulley Family Racing has spent 10 years running a safe driving program at local high schools in their area. The focus is on teaching children the dangers of illegal street racing and the importance of safe driving. The program involves different techniques to help demonstrate the responsibility needed to get behind the wheel.

It is a hands-on program, set in the classroom and in other locations with an actual race car and drivers from McCulley Family. The program uses videos from SEMA and the NHRA, in addition to videos from local police. They make the presentation to one class at a time and spend the entire day at the school. The program also includes a local law-enforcement officer explaining the punishment for racing illegally on public streets.

The program also has a fun part. The students are taken outside and have an opportunity not only to look at the race cars McCulley Family Racing brings, but to actually get into the race cars and put on the safety equipment. This portion of the program also includes a talk about safety and the difference between racing on the streets and at the race track. The program takes place about seven times a day at each school they go to.

For more information on McCulley Family Racing, visit them at www.mcculleyfamilyracing.com.

MARCH 2010 SAN CLUB EVENTS

ALASKA
March 17, Anchorage
MSSRA Monthly Meeting
Sponsor: Midnight Sun Street Rod Association
Information: www.MidnightSunSRA.org

ARIZONA
March 6, Scottsdale
2nd Annual “Let the Good Times Roll”
Sponsor: Arizona Vettes and Rods Club
Information: Laurie at 602/808-9352 or www.vettesandrods.com

March 26–27, Tucson
Mustang Mania 2010
Sponsor: Old Pueblo Mustang Club
Information: www.tucsonpony.com/Maniaflyer.html

CALIFORNIA
March 5–7, San Diego
48th Annual Desert Safari
Sponsor: Tierra Del Sol
Information: www.tds4×4.com

March 7, Anaheim
2nd Annual All Porsche Swap Meet and Car Display
Sponsor: Porsche 356 Club
Information: Jeff Trask at 949/697-4499 or NO911NV@aol.com

March 20, Gorman
CORVA Family Fun Run
Sponsor: California Off-Road Vehicle Association
Information: www.corva.org/events/FamilyFunRun.html

March 27–28, Pleasanton
28th Annual All American Get-Together
Sponsor: Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
Information: www.allamericangettogether.com

FLORIDA
March 26–28, Pensacola
31st Annual Gulf Coast National Car Show
Sponsor: Gulf Coast Regional Mustang Club
Information: www.gcrmc.com/attachments/2010_Show_Flier.pdf

March 28, Ocala
Live Oak Carriage and Car Show
Sponsor: AACA Club of Ocala Florida
Information: Carolyn Smith at 352/368-3880 or SKISS1937@Embarqmail.com

ILLINOIS
March 5–7, Chicago
World of Wheels
Sponsor: O’Reilly Auto Parts
Information: www.autorama.com

MARYLAND
March 13, West Friendship
Antique Auto Parts Flea Market
Sponsors: Antique Automobile Club of America, Chesapeake Region Chapter
Information: http://local.aaca.org/chesapeake

NEW YORK
March 28, Woodstown
39th Swap Meet & Car Corral
Sponsors: South Jersey Region AACA
Information: info@strayangelscarclub.com

OREGON
March 13–14, Roseburg
33rd Annual Roseburg Benefit Car Show
Sponsors: Umpqua Flatheads and Stray Angels Car Clubs
Information: info@strayangelscarclub.com

TEXAS
March 12–14, Austin
Texas Volvo Crew Spring Break Bash
Sponsor: Texas and Alamo Volvo Clubs
Information: http://forums.swedespeed.com/zerothread?id=126645

March 13, Dallas/Ft. Worth
Spring Classic ‘Tri Five’ Chevy Show
Sponsor: Dallas Classic Chevy
Information: www.DallasClassicChevy.com or info@dallasclassicchevy.com

March 20, Galveston
Spring Car Show On Pier 21
Sponsor: American Pontiac Association
Information: http://americanpontiacassociation.us/images/stories/inset/APA_2010_SPRINGSHOW_FLYER.jpg

UTAH
March 5–7, Salt Lake City
36th Annual Parts Plus AutoRama
Sponsor: Parts Plus
Information: www.autorama.com

VIRGINIA
March 13, Ashland
First Annual Winter Swap Meet and Car Corral
Sponsor: Richmond Region AACA
Information: George Field III at 804/752-6784 or e-mail Andy Fuhrman at fuhrmanandrew@hotmail.com

EARLY APRIL 2010 EVENTS

CALIFORNIA
April 11, Rancho Cucamonga
2nd Annual Chaffey College Car Show
Sponsor: Chaffey College Car Club
Information: ChaffeyCollegeCarClub@hotmail.com or www.webstarts.com/ChaffeyCollegeCarClub

NEW YORK
April 2–11, New York City
Public days for the New York International Auto Show
Information: 800/282-3336 or www.autoshowNY.com

OREGON
April 9–11, Portland
Portland Swap Meet
Information: www.portlandswapmeet.com

May 8, 2010

4th Annual Car Show

Location: Brick High School, Chambers Bridge Rd.

Time: 11AM to 3PM. (Rain Date: May 15, 2010)

Description: 4th Annual Classic Car Show. Pre-Registration 10AM, Trophies & Plaques, DJ Entertainment, 50/50 Raffle & Silnt Auction. Trophy Presentation @ 2:30PM. Goody Bags for the first 60 Cars. Dash Plaques.

Info: John or Tim Stephan @ 732.447.2266 Days. Evenings, John Stephan 732.295.7437 or Charles Goldfarb 732.458.3677. See attachment/flyer for registration info.

See photos of the damage

by Peter Corbett – Jan. 22, 2010 01:12 PM
The Arizona Republic

Russo and Steele officials assessed damage Friday after an 800-foot-long auction tent blew onto the Loop 101, snarling traffic and leaving hundreds of valuable collector cars uncovered in a pounding rainstorm.

Heavy tent poles struck some cars and uncovered convertibles were pelted with rain in the ongoing storm that has blasted through the state this week. A collector-car insurance executive estimated damages to the vehicles could exceed $1.5 million.
See photos of the damage

Russo and Steele announced late Friday morning that owners would not be allowed to inspect their cars until at least Saturday morning because the Scottsdale fire marshal has not declared the auction site safe.

Drew and Josephine Alcazar, Russo and Steele owners, hoped to resume the auction Saturday, but there was still a lot of cleanup to do.

“By no stretch of the imagination are we down for the count,” Drew Alcazar said Friday as tent crews worked to clear away the damaged tents.

Public safety officials cleared out people from Russo and Steele’s two display tents late Thursday when the high winds threatened the structures, and the auction continued in the main tent, Josephine Alcazar said.

High winds lifted the north tent high off the ground about 6:15 p.m. and it crashed down on the freeway east of Scottsdale Road, she said.

Russo and Steele shut down the auction and cleared the site. The south tent then blew over, but did not go onto the roadway.

Chuck Favour, Hagerty Insurance vice president of claims, said his company has insured about 125 of the cars at Russo and Steele.

After viewing the auction site from the Loop 101, he estimated that as many as half the 600 cars on the lot were damaged with dents and scratches from tent poles and debris.

Among the cars that were stranded on the site Friday was a 1948 Tucker convertible that could draw bids of more than $1 million.

A 1913 White Gentleman’s Roadster was struck by a pole and an uncovered 1916 Ford Model T Fire Chief car sat out in the rain after a flimsy tarp blew off of it.

Favour expected the claims would average about $5,000 per car.

That works out to claims approaching $1.5 million.

He said he would be surprised if Russo and Steele was able to resume the auction.

Favour said a previous auction in Carlisle, Pa., sustained damage when a much smaller tent collapsed a few years ago.

Other Valley auctions continued on Friday. Barrett-Jackson had to move everyone into its main auction tent as a precaution Thursday night, but otherwise the event continued without major disruption.

Craig Jackson, Barrett-Jackson chairman, said his staff circled the tents with tractor-trailers to deflect the high winds that were rattling the structures.

As a car guy, he said, it was very sad to see what had happened at the Russo and Steel auction site.

RM Auctions reported the highest sale of the week so far on Thursday night at the Arizona Biltmore. A 1963 Aston Martin DB4 sold for $1 million.

On Friday morning, the Arizona Department of Public Safety closed the eastbound on-ramp to the Loop 101 at Scottsdale Road because of the cleanup efforts at Russo and Steele.

The freeway was closed in both directions between Scottsdale and Hayden roads for several hours after the tent landed on the roadway.

Russo and Steele, a Valley-based company, is in its 10th year of holding car auctions in Scottsdale.

Related:

Not Every Bill Is a Clunker
Four Hobbyist-Friendly SEMA Model Bills

As an auto enthusiast, it sometimes seems as if legislation created in the state capitals only hurts the hobby. However, not every bill is a clunker. As the SEMA Action Network (SAN) has demonstrated with the success of its Street Rod/Custom Vehicle law, pro-active, positive legislation can serve to create new opportunities for the growth of the auto hobby. Expanding on last month’s theme of building productive relationships with your legislators, the SAN presents you with four hobby-friendly model bills to share with legislators in your state. Along with the Street Rod/Custom Vehicle bill, the SAN champions the Inoperable Vehicle, Exhaust Noise and Nitrous-Oxide Systems model bills from coast to coast. SEMA-model legislation is designed specifically to create reasonable and practical solutions to widespread issues affecting every hobbyist.

Street Rod/Custom Vehicle
Every hobbyist has a dream vehicle over which they obsess about every detail. For some, this might be a kit vehicle they build at home, while for others it’s creating the perfect street rod. To facilitate putting that dream onto the road, the SAN developed the Street Rod/Custom Vehicle bill to simplify the titling and registration of these vehicles. This model bill defines a street rod as an altered vehicle manufactured before 1949 and a custom car as an altered vehicle at least 25 years old and manufactured after 1948. Under the bill, kit cars and replica vehicles are issued a certificate of title bearing the same model-year designation as the production vehicle they most closely resemble. To date, 20 states have passed a version of our model legislation to ensure historic and custom vehicles stay on the road.

Inoperable Vehicles
Many hobbyists work to take advantage of the Street Rod/Custom Vehicle laws by building or restoring a vehicle at home. However, some cities or counties seek to limit your ability to store and work on project vehicles on private property. The SAN aims to protect your historic projects with the Inoperable Vehicle model bill. Under this bill, municipalities may not create ordinances or regulations that prohibit land owners from engaging in automotive restoration as long as the collector’s vehicles or parts car are stored out of ordinary public view. With the support of the SAN, hobbyists in states across the country are able to comfortably restore and build their dream vehicles in the freedom and comfort of their own properties.

Exhaust Noise
One common thread on which most hobbyists can agree is the need to improve the performance of their vehicle. In the quest for more power and efficiency options, the first place many look to is their vehicle’s exhaust system. Through the years, we all have seen the nearly constant attacks on aftermarket exhaust system noise. As states work to limit the noise of mufflers, many enacted laws do not supply enforcement personnel with a clear standard to enforce, allowing them to make subjective judgments on whether or not a modified exhaust system is in violation. We agree that these exhaust systems should not be used in a way that causes overly loud or objectionable noise. The SAN’s Exhaust Noise model legislation protects you by establishing reasonable noise limits for modified exhaust systems based on an easy-to-administer test standard. These limits are usually indicated in decibels and allow vehicle owners to prove compliance by an objectively measured, fair and predictable procedure. The exhaust model bill safeguards your ability to improve your vehicle’s performance while providing law enforcement with a measurable standard.

Nitrous-Oxide Systems
Tenths of a second matter at the local dragstrip and can mean the difference between hitting that magical 10-second quarter time or not. For some hobbyists, that shot of nitrous oxide is all they need to conjure their asphalt-shredding personal best on the track. Unfortunately, everyone knows the actions of a few can hurt the many. Because nitrous oxide has become linked to illegal street-racing in the minds of many, legislators began banning its use. The SAN’s nitrous-oxide model bill ensures the rights of those who use nitrous oxide legally. The legislation allows vehicles that are equipped to supply nitrous oxide to the engine to travel on public roads as long as the nitrous-oxide feeding line is disabled or the containers are removed. This allows for the system to be easily accessed and restored for lawful use at the track.

The SAN and hobbyists have worked together to generate these successes, but there is much more work to be done and we need you more than ever. With the knowledge of how to lobby your legislator and model legislation to share with them, now is the time to build that relationship. Each of you, through a letter, a phone call or by inviting a legislator to your club meeting has the power to protect the future of the hobby. Our allies in the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus prove that state legislatures are populated with automotive enthusiasts just like you, looking to protect the hobby. The Street Rod/Custom Vehicle, Inoperable Vehicle, Exhaust Noise and Nitrous-Oxide System bills along with the guide to lobbying your legislator, can be found on www.SEMASAN.com. If you are concerned about these issues in your state, now is the time to pick up that pen or phone and help the SAN enact hobby-friendly legislation so future generations can enjoy their own dream cars.

CAUCUS CORNER

Each month Driving Force will feature members of the State Automotive Enthusiast Leadership Caucus. The SEMA-supported caucus is a bipartisan group of state lawmakers whose common thread is a love and appreciation for automobiles.
Here is its newest member:

CALIFORNIA
Assembly Member
Tony Mendoza

LEGISLATIVE QUICK HITS
Indiana Antiques: SAN hobbyist groups affiliated with the Auto Clubs Council of Indiana, working with SEMA and SEMA-member companies, have reached a tentative compromise with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) on an agency proposal that originally sought to redefine the term “antique vehicle” in order to force more of these hobby cars into the emissions inspection program. Under existing regulations, an antique vehicle defined as “a motor vehicle or motor scooter that is at least 25 years old” is exempted from emissions inspections. Under the initial proposed regulation, the definition would be revised to require that the vehicle must be at least 25 years old, registered and plated as a historic motor vehicle, driven a maximum of 3,000 miles per calendar year and include federally required pollution-control equipment for that make and model year. Under the plan, the vehicle would be periodically forced into a vehicle emissions test site to verify that these requirements have been met. Under the current compromise, vehicles 25 years old and older would be exempted from the 3,000-mile limit and the pollution-control equipment requirement if they were insured under a collectible vehicle or classic automobile insurance policy.

HEY, THAT’S MY CAR!
Family Cruiser

1967 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme
Owner: Eric T. Brubakken
Marietta, Georgia

When my Dad got home from work one evening in August of 1967, my mother met him at the front door and told him they were buying a new car that night. This would be only the second new car they had ever purchased and since my dad was a mechanic at JM Taylor Oldsmobile in South Gate, California, that’s where they went.

In the showroom sat a ’67 Cutlass Supreme. The Cutlass had the Turnpike Cruiser option, which was basically a 442 with a two-barrel carburetor and a cam designed with highway cruising in mind. That was the car they purchased, and it has been in the family ever since. The purchase price was somewhere around $3,200 in 1967 dollars.

The Cutlass was my parent’s daily driver until I enlisted in the Air Force in 1972. During tech school in Biloxi, Mississippi, my parents decided to give me the car and brought it to me while I was stationed there. Before they left for home, I managed to find a set of “mag” wheels for it, the first of a long list of changes to the Cutlass.

Modifications throughout the years include: complete repaint and new vinyl top; swapped out 400 engine with a 455, added Edelbrock intake; Holley 780-cfm carburetor; Chevy 12-bolt rearend 3.31 gears; PowerTrax Lock-Right Locker; Strange Axles with C-Clip eliminators; Hooker headers; converted drum brakes to disks; and Turbo 400 transmission swapped to a 700-R transmission with a 2200 stall converter.

One of the many monumental events the Cutlass was involved in was the birth of my son. When he was born, we brought him home from the hospital in it and now, 20 years later, he is the third generation of my family driving it.

Future plans include building another 455 engine for it, freshening up the original interior and someday giving it to my son.

Have your car or truck featured in a future issue of Driving Force.
Submit your high-resolution photos online at www.semasan.com

OFF-ROAD NEWS
The SAN Creates “Guide to Land Use Policies & Off-Road Recreation”

Free and unfettered access to public lands is vitally important to many U.S citizens, not the least of which are Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. This hobby represents a growing trend and leads to more people actively using and appreciating our public lands each year. Land use policies developed in Washington, D.C., and elsewhere have a dramatic impact on the availability of public land for hobbyist use, so it is important to be a knowledgeable and active enthusiast. Because these laws and regulations are massively complex, the SAN has created a “Guide to Land Use Policies & Off-Road Recreation” to help you decode the Washington lingo.

The “Guide to Land Use Policies & Off-Road Recreation” provides several key tools that will help you build a solid foundation of land use knowledge. It includes a broad overview of such topics as the key federal agencies managing public lands; major laws and regulations, such as the Endangered Species and Wilderness Acts, that affect access to public lands; private organizations who are active in the conservation of natural lands while supporting the hobby; and SAN position statements, which act as a guidepost for legislative and regulatory advocacy.

Many laws and regulations that are passed or proposed are well intended, but have a tendency to be one-sided and too vast in scope, taking little account of hobbyists who responsibly enjoy nature through a variety of motorized activities. Far too often, laws are enacted by legislators who do not take into account the beneficial impact that enthusiasts have on public lands through the OHV hobby. Many hobbyist groups and clubs actively participate in the maintenance of roads and trails on their own time and dollar, conduct clean up days on public lands, and work to preserve the environment not only because it’s the right thing to do, but to ensure that future generations can enjoy the same natural splendor and beauty our public lands possess. These are the same individuals that are as passionate about their vehicles as they are the land they enjoy them on, and maintaining a future for this hobby on public lands is essential.

How can these wilderness bills affect my hobby you ask? Imagine planning a trip to go enjoy OHV trails in The Great Basin, Grand Staircase-Escalante, Moab-La Sal Canyons or San Rafael Swell areas. Now imagine the U.S. Congress passing a bill called America’s Red Rock Wilderness Act of 2009 which closes significant portions of those parks to all OHV use. The threat that these laws and regulations pose to hobbyists are not imagined or abstract; they are very real and require action on the part of hobbyists, hobby groups and other industry associations.

This March, the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 was signed into law, designating more than 2 million acres of wilderness (land closed to all motorized activities) in nine states. This included areas in and around Joshua Tree National Park and Eastern Sierras in California, Owyhee-Bruneau Canyonlands in Idaho, Mt. Hood in Oregon and Zion National Park in Utah. Additionally, a bill entitled “The Northern Rockies Ecosystem Protection Act” has been introduced in Congress. This legislation would set a precedent by using the term “bioregion” as justification for converting 24 million acres across five states into wilderness areas. How would you feel if congressmen and senators from distant states came to your backyard and told you how you can use local designated trails? Keeping access decisions about these lands at a local level and to be determined by those who enjoy them is vital to keeping them free for all Americans.

The SAN has taken the action of submitting comments in opposition to these bills, but participation by invested hobbyists and businesses may be necessary to secure access to these areas in the future for all tax-paying hobbyists. The SAN’s “Guide to Land Use Policies & Off-Road Recreation” is another means of protecting access to these lands by putting the information necessary to understand the issues and the players at your fingertips. Educating yourself and using that knowledge to take action by writing your legislators and passing the information on to your friends is the key to creating a win for your hobby and passion. The guide can be found at www.SEMASAN.com.

CLUB SPOTLIGHT
Building Ramps and Rods

The Dallas Area Classic Chevys (DACC) was organized in the spring of 1976 as a car club dedicated to ’55, ’56 and ’57 Chevrolets. Today it has more than 150 enthusiasts from all over the North Texas area, and each of them has a devoted passion for all of the mid-fifty Chevys, including sedans, coupes, Corvettes and pickups.

DACC has hosted several major events that focus on the ’55–’57 Chevy. Beginning in 1979, the club hosted a regional convention for ’55–’57 Chevys, then several years later, followed that with a national convention in 1985. In 1991, DACC hosted its largest event, the International Classic Chevy Convention—a week-long celebration of the mid-fifty Chevys that brought enthusiasts from all over the world to Dallas. Most recently in 2006, the club hosted the 24th Annual Lone Star Classic Chevy Convention, a rotating event shared by Classic Chevy Clubs in Texas (more info at www.LoneStarChevys.com). In 2011, DACC will again host the Lone Star Classic Chevy Convention, and work to put that event together has already begun.

Each month the club participates in at least one event that can include a day-long driving trip, club displays at the indoor winter car shows in Dallas and Fort Worth, a drag race in a season-long Car Club Challenge series or simply a meeting at one of the many parking lot shows in the area. DACC also meets at ’50s-era establishments, such as the Brazos Drive-In movie theatre (opened in 1952) in Granbury, Texas; Frosty Drive N Diner (opened in 1954) in Denton, Texas; and the restored Uptown Theatre (opened in 1950) in Grand Prairie, Texas. All of these were originally built in the ’50s and are still kicking just like DACC club cars!

DACC also enjoys doing charity work each Christmas season that does not involve old cars at all, such as constructing wheelchair ramps for the handicap at their homes. Working with a local agency, club members travel to the home of a wheelchair-bound occupant and by the time the club leaves, that person is able to get in and out of their home much more easily using the ramp built by DACC.

A great benefit of club membership is the assistance a person can get from fellow club members when it comes to their shoebox Chevy. Whether it’s a quick question or help with a complete restoration, members in the club are there to help by phone, e-mail or in person. The club also has several designated “tech advisors” whom members may contact should they find themselves stumped with a project on their Chevy.
Dallas Area Classic Chevys welcomes all enthusiasts of ’55–’57 Chevys to join. For more information, find DACC online at www.DallasClassicChevy.com.

NOVEMBER 2009 SAN CLUB EVENTS

Alabama
November 13–14, Dothan
10th Dothan Automotive Swap Meet and Car Show
Information: www.swapncrusin.com or 866/277-3962

Arizona
November 20–22, Scottsdale
12th Southwest Nationals
Information: http://good-guys.com/events/eventDetails.aspx?eventid=09-629 or 925/838-9876

California
November 6–8, Borrego Springs
Bronco Daze 2009
Sponsor: Early Bronco Registry
Information: www.earlybronco.com or 760/751-9859

November 13–15, Trona
Panamint Valley Days
Sponsor: California Association of 4WD Clubs
Information: www.cal4wheel.com or 626/280-0308

November 14–15, Pleasanton
20th Autumn Get-Together
Information: http://good-guys.com/events/eventDetails.aspx?eventid=09-804 or 925/838-9876

Florida
November 1, Clearwater
Mason Dixon Best of the Best
Sponsor: Mustang Club of Tampa
Information: www.masondixonchristmaswishfund.com or 813/417-2483

November 6–7, Indian Harbour Beach
Roadsters Rock the Island ’09
Sponsor: Florida Roadsters
Information: 321/848-4447

November 7–8, Ocala
22nd Annual Mopar with Big Daddy
Sponsor: Florida Mopar Association
Information: www.floridamoparassociation.com or 813/986-0990

November 8, Dade City
21th Annual Pasco Bug Jam
Information: www.pascobugjam.com or 352/567-6678

November 14, Orlando
Moparty Car and Truck Show
Information: 407/847-0690

November 12–15, Zephyrhills
25th Annual Fall Auto Fest
Information: www.zephyrhillsauction.com/index.php or 813/258-6726

November 22, Sarasota
18th Annual Super Sunday
Sponsor: Mustang Club of West Central Florida
Information: www.mustangclubofwestcentralflorida.org or 941/927-7284

November 26–29, Daytona
36th Annual Turkey Run
Sponsor: Daytona Beach Street Rods
Information: www.turkeyrun.com or 386/767-9070

November 27–28, Ormond Beach
Antique Car Parade & Show
Sponsor: Volusia Region Antique Automobile Club of America
Information: http://local.aaca.org/volusia or 386/672-7762

Georgia
November 7, Monroe
4th Annual Santa Cruise
Sponsor: Georgia Street Rod Association
Information: www.gsra.com or 770/464-1327

November 6–7, Augusta
The Fall Pumpkin Run
Sponsor: CSRA Road Angels Car Club
Information: www.roadangelsaugusta.com or 706/595-1450

November 7, Valdosta
25th Annual Fall Classic Car & Truck Show
Sponsor: South Georgia Classic Car Club
Information: www.sgccc.org/images/flyers/Fall_Classic_2009.jpg or 229/244-5820

Illinois
November 21–22, Rosemont
2009 Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals
Information: www.mcacn.com or 586/549-5291

Indiana
November 7, Richmond
37th Annual Vintage Wheels Rod & Custom Car Show
Sponsor: Vintage Wheels Car Club
Information: 765/966-0541 or 765/855-5771

Louisiana
November 11, Boutte
3rd Annual Benefit Car Show
Sponsor: Louisiana Custom Cruisers
Information: www.lacustomcruisers.com or 985/785-8494

Nevada
November 6–7, Henderson
AMC/Rambler Club Southwest Regional Meet
Sponsor: Southern Nevada AMC Club
Information: http://snamc.amcrc.com/carshow.html or 702/985-7647

November 6–7, Logandale
29th Hump N Bump Trail Rides
Sponsor: Vegas Valley 4 Wheelers
Information: http://vv4w.org/humpnbump.asp

New Mexico
November 7, Truth or Consequences
13th Annual Veterans’ Day Car Show
Information: www.nmstateveteranshome.org/events.shtml or 575/894-4222

North Carolina
November 7, Shelby
Hog Happnin’ Bikes & Cars Barbecue
Information: www.hoghappnin.com/carshow.htm

Pennsylvania
November 8, Hatfield
Toy Drive 2009
Sponsor: Full House Motorsports
Information: www.fullhousemotorsports.com/eventschedule.html or 215/896-2923

November 14, Media
Salute to the Troops Car Show
Sponsor: Delco Cruisers
Information: www.delcocruisers.org

Texas
November 13–14, Bastrop
Veteran’s Weekend Car Show
Sponsor: Bastrop Area Cruisers
Information: www.bastropareacruisers.com/events.html or 512/569-2316

November 26–29, Houston
AutoRama
Information: www.autorama.com/casi/show/houston.php or 248/373-1700
Early December 2009 Events
California
December 5, Folsom
22nd Annual Gold Country Toy Run
Sponsor: California Association of 4 Wheel Drive Clubs
Information: www.cal4wheel.com//index.php?option=com_remository&Itemid=67&func=fileinfo&id=75 or 916/985-2250

Georgia
December 5, Calhoun
2nd Annual Christmas in Paradise
Sponsor: North Georgia Hotrods
Information: www.northgeorgiahotrods.com or 706/278-2846

Maryland
December 4–6, Timonium
East Coast Indoor Nationals
Information: www.eastcoastindoornats.com or 410/628-6262

Oregon
December 5, Stayton
Santa Cruise Toy Drive
Information: www.stros.biz/santacruise.html or 503/769-5060