FORMULA 1: New cultural event to start SAP US Grand Prix weekend
Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel
August 17, 2001INDIANAPOLIS - As guests from around the world arrive in Indianapolis this September for the SAP United States Grand Prix, they will have the opportunity to mingle with local residents at a new cultural event with international flair.
The first Christel House "Evening of Angels" will take place Thursday, Sept. 27, with proceeds providing much-needed textbooks, supplies and school clothing for the children of Christel House, an international children's charity. Tony George, president and chief executive officer of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and his wife, Laura, will serve as honorary co-chairs for this event.
The event will launch SAP United States Grand Prix weekend festivities, culminating in the race Sept. 30 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. "Evening of Angels" will include a gala cocktail reception; a concert by the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, conducted by world-renowned Maestro Raymond Leppard and featuring internationally acclaimed soprano Sylvia McNair; and a candlelight dinner and a live auction offering a limited number of unique items. Festivities will take place at the Indianapolis Scottish Rite Cathedral.
The evening promises to be a premier cultural and social event - uniting auto racing and the arts to benefit children. Representatives from the Indiana Department of Commerce, the Indianapolis Regional Economic Development Partnership and Mayor Bart Peterson's office have been involved with the event planning. The occasion will offer opportunities for networking between key U.S. and international business executives, and will promote Indianapolis as a cultural tourism destination.
The mission of Christel House is to help orphaned, abandoned and impoverished children around the world break the cycle of poverty and become self-sufficient, contributing members of their societies. Its design is based on the belief that children can achieve success and dignity when given the right opportunities.
Christel House provides these children with education, health care, life and social skills development, job placement and workplace integration - the essential tools to effect lasting change in their lives. For more information, visit the Web site at www.christelhouse.org.
Individual tickets, tables and corporate sponsorships for Christel House "Evening of Angels" are available now. Call (317) 464-2677 for information.
Text provided by Paul Kelly
Editors Note: To view hundreds of hot racing photos and art, visit
The Racing Photo Museum and the
Visions of Speed Art Gallery.