Cutting Into the First Day of the Show
Posted by:
Danielle Shylanski (1:00 PM)
“Thank you for giving, thank you for caring, and thank you for a job well done,” Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State, said as a closing to his speech at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony this morning. Open to interpretation, but I believe that the White was referring to not only the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) Board of Directors and staff, the vendors, the exhibitors, everyone working hard to put this fabulous show together, but also to the public for attending the event and getting out there to help boost our local economy. White encourages everyone to check out the new automotives and buy some vehicles today “because in Illinois we are in dire need of some revenue, but I guess enough said,” Secretary White stated in a comical yet serious tone.
David Sloan, President of CATA and Co-General Manager of the Chicago Auto Show, kicked off a brief ceremony this morning recognizing former CATA President Jerry H. Cizek III’s retirement after 37 years with the organization. Because of his extremely long history with the Chicago Auto Show, Cizek accepted a lifetime ticket of admission to the show represented by a one of a kind pin. With great memories of attending the show with his Grandfather, Auto Show Chairman in 1955, I am sure Jerry looks forward to taking his own grandchildren to the show with more time to enjoy the show as a very special guest. Only the sixth general manager of the Chicago Auto Show of the past 109 years, Cizek held the position of President of the CATA for 22 great years. You can tell Jerry has extreme passion for the show with his laid back sense of humor, yet prominent manner in which he presents himself.
“1-2-3,” Cizek counts off as the eight gentlemen cut the official ribbon to start the ignition of this remarkable show. Rev up your engine and attend this fantastic experience at the Chicago Auto Show 2010!