Sunbelt Auto Collection will host Kiwanis benefit

The Kiwanis Club of Las Vegas, which was founded in 1925, will hold a benefit tour of Jim Rogers' Sunbelt Auto Collection Museum vehicles March 12.

Called a celebration of American-made automobiles, the collection is among the best of U.S.-made restored autos in the United States. Among the more than 200 vehicles on display are special editions of Cadillacs, Chryslers, Dodges, Lincolns, Fords, Chevrolets and Buicks.

Rogers also has completed a one-of-a-kind collection of 1953 all-American convertibles in mint condition.

Additional featured cars are select foreign sports cars, Model-Ts and classic Corvettes.

Another feature is the collection of 100-plus original large-size movie posters adorning the walls.

Mike Pratt, operations manager for the auto collection museum, has worked with Rogers for more than 10 years at the museum and heads up all restoration projects. Separate restoration bays at the facility specialize in total body and painting, upholstery, chrome refinishing, parts manufacturing, engine technology and rebuilding, drivetrain refabrication and virtually any and all aspects of automotive engineering required to restore and refurbish an automobile.

The Sunbelt Auto Collection is not open to the general public and viewing is available only through special events with select community organizations.

The tour is scheduled from 6 to 9 p.m. Admission is $20 and only 100 tickets are available. Proceeds from the tour will benefit Kiwanis youth education programs.

Additionally, the evening will include a silent auction.

Gourmet sandwiches, desserts and wine, soda and water will be served.

The 40,000-square-foot Sunbelt Auto Collection Museum is at 1420 Gragson Ave.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.kiwaniscluboflasvegas.com. Show information is available by contacting Jon Bastian at 429-1624.