Mercedes Gullwing to be featured at Gala Opening for Lokey's New Showroom
I am really looking forward to this three day gig in Clearwater. Earlier this year I met the uber lovely Lokey folks and event planners and they have done an amazing job in helping me get my gear down to Floriday to do a giant 48″ x 72″painting of the gala opening of their new showroom – as the evening’s events unfold. Here’s a clipping from their local press to see what a great and memorable evening they have planned (and featuring yours truly, aka, MOI !)
CLEARWATER’S NEWLY RENOVATED MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR
MERCEDES-BENZ FACILITY SET TO OPEN NEXT MONTH
MAYOR FRANK HIBBARD GUEST OF HONOR FOR AUGUST 4TH “REVEAL”
CLEARWATER, FLORIDA – June 8, 2011 – Mercedes-Benz in Clearwater has announced their newly renovated multi-million dollar facility is on target to open to the public in July with an expanded 2,500 square foot facility located at 19820 US Highway 19 North. A private Grand Opening VIP party will take place on Thursday, August 4th from 5 to 8 pm.
While a traditional ribbon cutting is commonplace to help launch a new facility, this dedication will begin with a unique “Mercedes-Benz Reveal” at 5:15 p.m. when Mayor Hibbard and other dignitaries share the spotlight. The gala event will be held inside and outside to showcase the new facility and is slated to feature live music with a surprise twist and gourmet cuisine catered by Salt Rock Grill. With a bow to the international headquarters based in Germany, party beverages will include German craft beer.
Guests will be offered the unique opportunity to be part of “Mercedes-Benz history” and literally be painted into a commissioned piece of artwork during the party by internationally acclaimed artist Joan Zylkin. Her work has been displayed around the country as a salute and remembrance to milestones ranging from new product launches to celebrations large and small.
Throughout the evening, party goers can take a tour through the Lokey Motor Company history gallery, which will be lined with photographs of the dealership dating back almost 60 years.
A centerpiece of the party will include an exclusive and luxurious Gullwing on display in the showroom. The iconic sports car is best known for its signature upward opening doors. Guests familiar with the Mercedes-Benz culture will not be surprised to find runway models from leading boutiques featured in next season’s latest fashions at the “Greeting Table.” Several area celebrities are slated to make special appearances. The original owners of the dealership, the Lokey Family, are expected to attend as well as Mercedes-Benz representatives regionally and nationally.