R ecently Classic Instruments welcomed Republican Michigan State Representative Parker Fairbairn for a tour of its Boyne City, Michigan, facility to share the impact of the aftermarket industry on the state’s economy. As a member of the Michigan Legislature, Rep. Fairbairn plays an important role in supporting small manufacturers and advancing policies that impact the specialty equipment and motorsports indus- tries. He sits on the Regulatory Reform Committee as Vice Chair, and the Natural Resources and Tourism, Communication and Technology, and Energy Committees. Parker is familiar with the industry, having previously attended the SEMA Show. The key topic dis- cussed was SEMA’s top state legislative priority heading into 2026, which is protecting racetracks from nui- sance claims, specifically when tracks were built before nearby development occurred. Preserving racetracks by shielding them from civil lawsuits is essential to sus- taining grassroots motorsports and supporting the broader automotive culture. SEMA will continue its advocacy efforts in the next legislative session to ensure racetracks are protected and motorsports can continue to thrive in Michigan and beyond. The visit was part of SEMA’s ongoing effort to build strong relationships with lawmakers, educate them on the aftermarket industry’s priorities and ensure that the future of automotive innovation, from performance to personalization, remains pro- tected and supported in the state that is the heart of the American auto industry. Founded in 1977, Classic Instruments designs, engineers and manufactures custom gauges from its 14,000-sq.-ft. headquarters, where it employs a dedi- cated team of 25. Classic Instruments is a pillar of the local community and has earned numerous awards for its support of law enforcement, fire departments and local sports organizations. Its reputation and com- Hosting Policymakers
munity involvement made it a natural stop for Classic Instruments’ John McLeod to host Rep. Fairbairn. Michigan’s specialty equipment aftermarket and performance racing industries make a significant contribution to the state’s economy. The specialty- equipment market generates $34.67 billion in total economic impact, supports 116,186 jobs, provides $9.46 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $3.53 billion in taxes paid. Moreover, Michigan’s rac- ing industry accounts for $6.95 billion in total eco- nomic impact, supports 24,643 jobs, provides $1.86 billion in wages and benefits and contributes $791.75 million in taxes paid annually. Hosting local lawmakers at your facility is a valu- able opportunity to highlight your business, intro- duce your team and build stronger connections with those shaping public policy. These visits are especially impactful when elected officials witness the skill, dedication and pride that go into the work at small, family-owned operations which serve as the heart of the automotive aftermarket. Seeing your shop in action puts a human face on the poli- cies they consider. It reinforces that behind every regulation are real people, quality jobs and local communities. If you are interested in hosting a law- maker at your facility, SEMA’s Government Affairs team is here to help make it happen. Contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA senior manager for state govern- ment affairs, at tierrah@sema.org.
2025 marked 39 years Mathewson’s Automotive in Renton, Washington, has hosted an NSRA Appreciation Day. As has been done at every yearly gathering, coffee and donuts were offered to participants. There were 13 Safety Inspections com- pleted with eight receiving the coveted Safety 23 pin, one passing Safety 16 and four failed the inspection. Larry Schaffer, Washington State Safety Inspector, presented Brent Kranz’s ‘32 Ford Victoria with the NSRA Safety Award. Josh Coleman, owner of Mathewson’s Automotive, received a thank you plaque from Leighton Riber, Western Washington, State Representative, for 39 years of hosting NSRA Appreciation Days. NSRA Appreciation Day By Mary Louise Darnell - Washington Safety Team
(L-R front row) Russ Gregor, Larry Schaffer, Brent Kranz, Josh Coleman. (L- R back row) Leighton Riber, ML & Dean Darnell and Scott McMahill.
14 NOVEMBER 2025
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