Brian Wilson to perform at Petersen Museum gala

Thomas V. McKernan, Chief Executive Officer of the Automobile Club of Southern California, will be honored with the 2009 Petersen Automotive Museum Icon Award

Los Angeles, Calif. – The Petersen Automotive Museum will celebrate its 15th Anniversary this year during the “California Dreaming” themed event on May 7. Legendary Grammy award-winning musician Brian Wilson and his band will perform at the annual charity gala. Brian Wilson’s performance will include a live show featuring some of his most well known hits including “Little Deuce Coupe,” “409,” and “Fun Fun Fun.” His numerous hits embody the California dreaming lifestyle of cruising and surfing, reflected in the theme of this year’s Gala.

Thomas V. McKernan, Chief Executive Officer of the Automobile Club of Southern California, will be honored with the 2009 Petersen Automotive Museum Icon Award, because of his many contributions and dedication to the automotive industry throughout his 40 years of service. Tom has played a key role in guiding the organization’s growth, and his commitment to promoting safer roads, vehicles and drivers. Today, the Auto Club insures over 2.5 million vehicles.

McKernan is also a devoted car hobbyist and avid car collector. He has a number of vehicles in his personal collection representative of the hot rod and muscle car eras.

“As we celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the Petersen Automotive Museum this year, it is with a sense of pride for the unique cultural traditions of California,” says Dick Messer, Executive Director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. “Through his work with the Auto Club, Tom McKernan represents the same dedication to Southern California and American values that the Petersen Museum strives to uphold.”

Legendary racing commentator, David McClelland, will serve of master of ceremonies and all proceeds raised from the evening will fund the Museum’s world class exhibits, educational programs and efforts to preserve rare and historic automobiles.

The annual Gala is the Museum’s biggest fundraiser of the year, promising an exciting night for all, including VIPs from the automotive world, entertainment industry, politics and business. Stars of movies, television and sports also attend each year. This year’s signature event will include a cocktail reception, a silent and live auction, and an elegantly catered dinner. The Museum welcomes additional charity auction donations – from auto memorabilia and artwork to cars and collectibles. Individual tickets and reserved tables for the 2009 “California Dreaming” Gala are available in advance. For additional information on the Gala and charity auction, call the Gala Hotline at (323) 964-6366.

As part of this year’s Gala, race cars and vintage auto club cars will be on display for attendees. Serving as an educational and historic home for the conservation of numerous extraordinary vehicles, the Petersen Museum is a forum for adults and children to learn about the rare and remarkable vehicles it houses. Presently, the museum is featuring a 1932 Ford “AAA” tow truck as part of its display.

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