DETROIT – Ticket sales for the 2013 North American International Auto Show Charity Preview have exceeded last year's total with one day to go, leaving show organizers optimistic that the event may raise $4 million.
Charity Preview, presented by Charter One/RBS Citizens, will be held tomorrow, Jan. 18, 2013, at Detroit's Cobo Center. The black tie event is regarded as the largest single night fundraiser in the world, and has raised a remarkable $90 million since it began in 1976. ($50 million has been raised in the last 10 years.)
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Some 12,000 people attended the 2012 Charity Preview, which raised $3 million for children's charities.
Southeastern Michigan charities that benefit from the event include: Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, Boys Hope Girls Hope of Detroit, the Children's Center, Judson Center, the Detroit Institute for Children, Think Detroit PAL, March of Dimes, Children's Hospital of Michigan Foundation, and the DADA Charitable Foundation Fund, a fund of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.
"Those interested in attending tomorrow's event should act quickly to purchase tickets," said Jim Seavitt, NAIAS 2013 chairman.
"Charity Preview is the perfect way to celebrate the returning strength and vibrancy of the auto industry," said Seavitt. "It's a night for all of us in Detroit to catch our breath after an exciting week of press conferences and product unveilings, and reflect on the generosity of the auto industry, which, without fail, is always here to support our community."
Tickets for Charity Preview are $300, $290 of which is tax deductible. Charity Preview tickets can be purchased online at charitypreview.com or for more information call 888-838-7500.
Newstalk 760 WJR's morning voice, Paul W. Smith, will once again emcee the opening ceremony in Cobo Center's new Riverview Atrium. Smith will welcome dignitaries and VIP guests including Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder, Detroit Mayor Dave Bing, Wayne County Executive Robert A. Ficano, Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel, previous NAIAS chairmen, and executives from participating automakers. In recognition of the 25th NAIAS, former Michigan Governors James Blanchard and Jennifer Granholm will also take part in the on-stage activity.
Entertainment for Charity Preview will include performances by aerial performers Duo de Luna, the Union Avenue Band featuring Michal Baily, Callaghan Smerek, Tim Gaines, and a special surprise performance by a well-known home town artist. The performance will take place at 9 pm at the Riverview Atrium stage.