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Ford Division Brings Soul to Detroit

14 September 1998

Ford Division Brings Soul to Detroit: UniverSoul Circus, Sept. 18-27

    DETROIT, Sept. 11 -- Ford Division is bringing soul
to Detroit as a corporate sponsor of UniverSoul Circus, the only
African-American owned circus in the world.  The circus will perform at Chene
Park, Sept. 18-27.
    Now in its fourth year, UniverSoul Circus features world-class performers
of international descent, including clowns, magical acts, dancing animals and
high-flying aerial acts.  This is the second year Ford Division is a national
sponsor.
    "This partnership gives us the opportunity to help present top quality
family entertainment in the communities where we do business," said Larry
Collins, Taurus brand manager, Ford Division.  "UniverSoul Circus provides
positive role models for children who for years have loved this form of
entertainment."
    About 100 youth from the Detroit Police Athletic League (PAL) and more
than 400 kids from six Detroit schools are invited to participate in a parade,
press conference and circus camp at St. Suzanne Catholic School (19321
W. Chicago at Westwood) on Sept. 17 at 11 a.m.
    "The circus camp will give new meaning to the phrase 'clowning around,'"
Collins explained.  "It will give kids a behind-the-scenes look at circus life
by exposing them to real circus performers and their animals.  It's a once-in-
a-lifetime experience we're certain every child will enjoy."
    As part of its continued support of Detroit, Ford is donating 200 circus
tickets to PAL.  Ford Motor Company supports many community and cultural
programs throughout the United States.
    "We are constantly looking at ways to enrich the communities where our
loyal customers, dealers and employees live," Collins said.
    UniverSoul Circus continues its 16-city tour in the following cities
throughout the remainder of the year:

    Detroit                     Sept. 18-27
    St. Louis                   Oct. 1-11
    Kansas City, Missouri       Oct. 14-18
    Los Angeles                 Oct. 23 - Nov. 1
    Houston                     Nov. 6-15
    Dallas                      Nov. 18-22