North American International Auto Show Charity Preview Nearing Sellout

Total Funds Raised Since 1976 to Exceed $60 million

DETROIT, Jan. 4 -- The North American International Auto Show's (NAIAS) annual black-tie Charity Preview is nearing a sellout and is projected to reach its fundraising goal of $7 million in 2006. In the past five years, the NAIAS Charity Preview has generated nearly $35 million for children's charities in metro Detroit.

The 2006 Charity Preview will take place Friday, Jan. 13, at Cobo Center in Detroit from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets for the event are $400 each. For more information on the NAIAS 2006 Charity Preview or to purchase tickets call (888) 838-7500.

"We are very close to yet another sellout this year, and the tickets are going fast," said Richard Genthe, senior co-chairman for the NAIAS 2006. "Yet, there is still a chance that they will be able to purchase tickets if they call right away."

Each year, the Charity Preview and the NAIAS host many local, national and worldwide celebrities. In the past, celebrities like Kevin Bacon, Kid Rock, Celine Dion, Jay Leno, Veronica Webb, Tony Danza, and Jeff Daniels have attended the NAIAS. This year's potential cache of stars is increased by the ever-growing rumors of guests scheduled to appear at Super Bowl parties. Anyone from Will Smith to Jimmy Kimmel could stop by for a sneak peek of the NAIAS.

Beneficiaries of the 2006 Charity Preview include: Barat Child and Family Services; Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan; Boys Hope-Girls Hope of Detroit; The Children's Center; Children's Homes of Judson Center; Children's Services of Northeast Guidance Center Assistance League; The Detroit Institute for Children; ThinkDetroit PAL (Police Athletic League); Easter Seals-Michigan; March of Dimes; and the DADA Charitable Foundation Fund of the Community Foundation for Southeastern Michigan.

"Since its inception in 1976, the Charity Preview has raised over $58 million to help children throughout the Detroit area," said Genthe. "For example, a single Charity Preview ticket provides free transportation to 16 women for prenatal care appointments and well-baby visits."

NAIAS 2006 Official Dates

Press Preview Days will be held Sunday, Jan. 8, through Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2006. Industry Preview Days will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 11 and Thursday, Jan. 12, 2006. The Charity Preview will be held Friday evening, Jan. 13, 2006. Public Days are Saturday, Jan. 14, through Sunday, Jan. 22, 2006.

  The North American International Auto Show
  Rod Alberts - Executive Director

Entering its 18th year as an international event, the North American International Auto Show is among the most prestigious auto shows in the world, and is one of the largest media events in North America. The NAIAS is the only auto show in the United States to earn an annual distinguished sanction of the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles, the Paris- based alliance of automotive trade associations and manufacturers from around the world. The NAIAS Web site can be accessed at http://www.naias.com/ . Don't Miss It for the World!