HERSHEY, PA., June 1, 2011

Organizers of The Elegance at Hershey, a new series of charitable events June 11-12 at Hershey featuring some of the world’s most prized antique and vintage automobiles, announced that former Philadelphia Eagles head coach and TV sports commentator Dick Vermeil is Honorary Chair of the Elegance.

Vermeil lead the National Football League’s Philadelphia Eagles from 1976-1982, the St. Louis Rams from 1997-99 and the Kansas City Chiefs from 2001-2005, including leading the Rams to their stunning Super Bowl XXXIV win in 1999, one of the biggest single-year turnarounds in NFL history.

“We are extremely pleased and honored that Coach Vermeil has agreed to be Honorary Chair of the inaugural Elegance at Hershey,” noted Jed Rapoport, Acting Executive Director of the Elegance at Hershey.  “As a vintage car enthusiast and owner himself, we hope Coach Vermiel will not only be present at the event, but we anticipate he will want to take a few runs up the Grand Ascent hill climb course himself,” Rapoport said.

The announcement came at a Media Day where local reporters had an opportunity to ride up the storied Hershey Hill Climb course in anticipation of the public race on June 11. The event marks the first time in several years that the race will be run behind the Hotel Hershey.  Under the auspices of the Vintage Sports car Club of America (VSCCA) and renamed The Grand Ascent”, the June 11 “race to the top” features more than 40 vintage race cars, most built prior to 1958, with about 20 from the pre-World War II era.

The Grand Ascent Hill Climb on June 11 is part of a series of new events June 11-12 that comprise The Elegance at Hershey.  Tickets for the Grand Ascent, which will include special viewing areas, vendors, refreshments and a close-up access to the pits is $5. Children 15 and under free.

The Sunday, June 12, Elegance features 60 of the world’s most beautiful antique automobiles  — some once owned by legendary Hollywood actors —  in a never-before-conducted show and judging on the manicured formal lawns and gardens behind The Hotel Hershey. Admission to The Elegance is $20. Children 15 and under free.

Both events, along with a Gala Dinner and Auction Saturday evening (June 11) benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the AACA Museum and the AACA Library and Research Center.

For more information contact Adriana Bruno or Joe Benish at 717-534-1910.  Information on The Elegance weekend can be found at www.TheEleganceatHershey.com.

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