Concours d’Elegance of America at Inn at St.John’s July 27-29th

 

 

 

Cameron Vaubel models an automotive interior fabric flowing dress by Janna Coumoundouros in front of Keith Crain’s 1939 Bugatti.

Photo by Lars Hjelmroth, Rolco Sports & Entertainment Network

By Raymond Rolak
Polish News
Sports and Entertainment Editor

DETROIT– The 40th Concours d’Elegance of America had their preview at the Center for Creative Study to kick-off this year’s event, July 27-29th. The Concours d’Elegance of America announced that long-time supporters of the event, Sam and Emily Mann, as 2018 Collectors of the Year. The Mann’s will have five vehicles from their amazing collection on the show field for Sunday’s final viewing, including a 1935 Duesenberg.

To support the announcement, nine iconic vehicles were on display and the official poster designers were announced. Executive Director Diane Flis-Schneider announced the finalists, including Javier Guerra, Andrew Gombac and the winning designer, David Pichia of Rochester Hills. Chairman of the Board, Larry Moss invited the artists to be honorary judges for the show.

In attendance was Keith Crain and he had his 1939 Bugatti displayed. Crain is publisher of the Chicago based Crain’s Business Magazine. Also appearing was motor-muscle performance auto builder, Ken Lingenfelter.

Flis-Schneider said, „We will have three pillars of support for the vehicles….. Art, Fashion and Automobiles. We are featuring diversity and inclusion this year. There really is something for everybody.” Fashion designers Janna Coumoundouras and Mathew Richmond had spectacular auto inspired creations on display.

The Concours d’Elegance of America originated at Oakland University’s Meadow Brook Hall, the historic home of Matilda Dodge Wilson and widow of automotive pioneer John Dodge. In 2011 this world-class event moved to the beautiful grounds of the Inn at St. John’s in Plymouth, Michigan.

The Inn at St. John’s is the retirement venue for Polish-American and Roman Catholic Cardinal Adam Maida. This year, Porsche is the featured auto manufacturer.