This content is presented in partnership with ADAMM.
Somehow the annual Auto Show Charity Gala, presented by the Automobile Dealers Association of Mega Milwaukee, outdoes itself each year.
The event, held at the Wisconsin Center on the Friday night before the opening day of the Greater Milwaukee International Car & Truck Show, will begin at 7 p.m. on Feb. 21. ADAMM is going the extra (country) mile to amp up the horse power for its 19th public edition.
"We’re really excited to do something truly special for our charitable beneficiary, Special Olympics Wisconsin," said Roman Weninger, Gala co-chair and co-owner of 5 Corners Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram in Cedarburg. "My wife, Kris and I both love country-western, so we thought it would be fun to infuse the Gala with the energy from this timeless American music style."
As always, the Gala promises a great time for a great cause.
"The dollars we raise at this event will help us reach even more people with intellectual disabilities in Wisconsin, and help them experience the joy of inclusion and the challenge of competition that comes with participating in sports," said repeat co-chair Vince Vitrano, anchor and reporter for Today’s TMJ4 and board chair for Special Olympics Wisconsin.
"It means so much to our athletes to have the support of ADAMM and all the guests at this fabulous event. We've invited many of our athletes to be there, and they’d love to thank everyone in person with a hug or a high five!"
While black-tie is always an option at the Gala, guests are encouraged to get gussied up in formal country chic. Hors d’oeuvres, dinner stations and boot-scootin’ beverages will kick things off in rollicking fashion, coupled with a Stars & Guitars auction. A Starry Night Hoedown, Cowboy Cantina and a sumptuous Sweets + Eats Saloon will follow ‘til the clock strikes midnight. And yes, country will set the mood, but other dance favorites will also get your toes tappin’.
"This is our third and last go-round to support an inspirational organization that uses sports to open hearts and minds towards people with intellectual disabilities, and create inclusive communities across Wisconsin," noted David Kriete, repeat Gala co-chair and owner of Kriete Truck Centers. "Many thanks to our auto manufacturer, industry and friends of the industry sponsors for their invaluable contributions. In fact, past Galas have netted well over $2 million for local charities."
Tickets are $300 per person, and the event is open to the public. For information on the 2020 Gala, e-mail holly@adamm.com, call (414) 375-4665 or go to www.adamm.com.
The Greater Milwaukee International Car & Truck Show runs this year from Feb. 22 through March 3 at the Wisconsin Center. For information and tickets, go to AutoShowMilwaukee.com.
