Ford Motor Company Donates 2002 Thunderbird for Chicago Auto Show Black-Tie Benefit

OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill., Nov. 6 -- One lucky attendee at the Chicago Auto Show's ``First Look for Charity'' will drive home with one of the hottest cars in America -- a 2002 Ford Thunderbird.

``Every 2002 Thunderbird has already been spoken for,'' said Greg Webb, chairman of the 2002 Chicago Auto Show. ``If you're not already on a dealer's waiting list, the only way to get a new T-bird is to win one at the First Look for Charity.''

A unique feature of this year's giveaway is that the Thunderbird, donated by Ford Motor Co., is a special edition for the Chicago Auto Show. Ford will distinguish the prized vehicle from other 2002 Thunderbirds by including a special commemorative plaque in the car's interior.

``The Thunderbird is one of the most revered cars in automotive history,'' said Webb. ``The 2002 model has a new, modern look, yet it is still reminiscent of the classic Thunderbird two-seat roadster.''

First Look for Charity is an annual fundraiser, sponsored by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), where attendees have the opportunity to view the Chicago Auto Show floor display the night before the show opens to the public. Extensive hors d'oeuvres, champagne, wine, beer and soft drinks help make the event special for everyone in attendance.

``'First Look' has become a highlight of the Chicago social calendar,'' said Webb. ``It's an elegant and exclusive means of seeing the nation's largest automotive exposition with comparatively few people on the show floor.''

The benefit will be held at McCormick Place from 6:30 - 10:30 p.m. on Feb. 7, 2002. Tickets are $150 and can be purchased by calling CATA at 630-424-1636.

All proceeds from the fundraiser benefit 17 local charities including, ALSAC/St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, Alzheimer's Association, Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago, Campagna Academy (Hoosier Boys' Town), Children's Memorial Hospital, Clearbrook, The Cradle, Cure Autism Now, Ray Graham Association for People with Disabilities, Hope Children's Memorial Hospital, Illinois Spina Bifida Association, Little City Foundation, March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Misericordia Heart of Mercy Center, National Multiple Sclerosis Society and Sickle Cell Disease Association of Illinois.