Collector Car Appreciation Day in Vegreville

Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent

Members of the Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club were honoured during Collector Car Appreciation Day (CCAD) at Vegreville Elks/ Kinsmen Park (Pysanka Park) on July 10.

(Right to left) Mayor of Vegreville Tim MacPhee presents a plaque to Bill Smoluk President of Vegreville Iron Runners Club in appreciate of the contributions of the club in Vegreville.

(Rosanne Fortier/photo)

Members of Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club showcased 15 pristine vintage vehicles at this event.

The Town of Vegreville Proclamation stated that the Specialty Vehicle Association (SVAA) and the SEMA Action Network (SAN) in the US have declared July 10, 2020, International Collector Car Appreciation Day; and whereas, Municipalities and provinces across Canada and The United States are observing the tribute to the collection and preservation of historic, classic and specialty vehicles as well as preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of automobiles.

Therefore, Mayor Tim MacPhee with the advice and consent of all members of town council declared July 10, 2020, to be Collector Car Appreciation Day in Vegreville. MacPhee started by extending the town’s appreciation to all of the club members for all they do by taking care of their cars and taking pride in them and coming out and showing them at events.

“The parade that the club held to bring up people’s spirits was totally awesome. I know this is a passion for you but it is also a big boost to our community.” MacPhee then presented Bill Smolak, President of Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club, with a plaque for the club.

Jacquie Armstrong-Homeniuk said she thought the club was awesome and presented the club a plaque. “Thank you for all the hard work you do in the community and to Mayor MacPhee for supporting them.”

Smolak said he felt it is important to recognize CCAD because the Specialty Vehicle Association of Alberta (SVAA) and the National Association of Automobile Clubs of Canada (NAACC) and the American Special Vehicle Association in the United States have all declared July 10th as Collection Car Appreciation Day.

George and Velma Sample drive-in with their vintage vehicle.

(Rosanne Fortier/photo)

“We belong to the provincial club and there is the national association that we belong to as well. We all believe it is important to recognize CCAD to keep the collector car industry alive as it is worth billions of dollars across Canada. Also, they don’t make cars like they used to. These vintage cars are much better; they don’t have all the bells and whistles like new cars do but they ride a lot better and are better built,” Smolak added.