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Former Curator of Savoy Automobile Museum appointed as VP of Curation and Education at LeMay – America’s Car Museum Tacoma, WA – November 19, 2025 – America’s Automotive Trust is proud to announce the appointment of Bruce Patton as Vice President of Curation and Education for LeMay – America’s Car Museum. Patton joins the organization with an impressive multi-decade career in the automotive industry particularly at Bosch. He also has strong knowledge of automotive history and the collector community most recently serving as Curator of Savoy Automobile Museum in Georgia. At Savoy, he led curation of world-class displays celebrating the art and innovation of the automobile, fostering public connection with the stories behind the vehicles and their creators. In his new role at America’s Automotive Trust, Patton will oversee the Museum’s exhibition strategy, collection stewardship, and educational programming, helping to advance ACM’s mission to preserve automotive heritage and celebrate car culture. Curation of the Collection will also include shaping it for effectiveness in promoting the Trust’s national activities. “We are absolutely delighted to have Bruce join us as our first Vice President for Curation and Education of the Trust,” said David Madeira, CEO of America’s Automotive Trust. “Bruce’s experience, knowledge of the automobile, connections in the industry and collector community will bring us Curatorial leadership at a level we have never enjoyed. Bruce’s passion for education prompted us to bring that important department under his stewardship as well. As the Trust undertakes development of a Robotics and Innovation Center at America’s Car Museum, Bruce will provide us with the leadership necessary for success.” “I look forward to working with the Curatorial and Education teams in place at America’s Automotive Trust to help expand and build on the incredible work that has already been accomplished,” said Bruce Patton. “With the assistance of our Board Members and newly appointed CEO Joe Jacuzzi, the future looks very bright for increasing the Museum’s reach for expanding the curiosity of our youth through the Robotics and Innovation Center. We will also investigate making slight modifications to our vehicle curation and programming cycles to help promote additional attendance, membership, and support of the Museum.” Bruce will be reporting to recently announced new CEO of America’s Automotive Trust Joe Jacuzzi. Under Bruce’s leadership, the Museum will continue to expand its programming and showcase new perspectives on automotive artistry, design, and cultural impact — reflecting the institution’s national role as a hub for enthusiasts, educators, and families alike. ### About America’s Automotive Trust America’s Automotive Trust works to preserve America’s automotive heritage and inspire the next generation of enthusiasts and innovators by bringing together like-minded organizations that honor the past, celebrate the present, and drive the future of car culture to make a greater impact. Founding member organizations LeMay – America’s Car Museum, RPM Foundation, and premier membership programs Club Auto and Concours Club, as well as our affiliated partners, work together to foster a strong community where any enthusiast can thrive – from the classroom, to careers, to the open road. America’s Automotive Trust is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, visit americasautomotivetrust.org. For the latest news, stories, photos and videos, visit americasautomotivetrust.org/aat-news

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE AMERICA’S AUTOMOTIVE TRUST ANNOUNCES NEW KEY LEADERSHIP CHANGES · Automotive veteran Joe Jacuzzi named Chief Executive Officer · Founding CEO, David Madeira takes new role at AAT’s Board as Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives Tacoma, WA – November 13, 2025 – America’s Automotive Trust (AAT) today announced a major new chapter in its history – one that both honors the past and looks boldly toward the future. After 23 years of devoted leadership as Founding CEO, David Madeira will transition to a new role on AAT’s Board of Directors as Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives. Succeeding Madeira as new CEO of America’s Automotive Trust effective at the start of the new year is Joe Jacuzzi, a former Vice President of General Motors. As Madeira transitions to this new strategic role, the Trust begins an exciting new era guided by the expertise and passion of Joe Jacuzzi, a respected industry leader whose career has spanned nearly four decades working for various companies around the globe including Audi, Shelby Automobiles, PepsiCo and General Motors to name a few. Known for his visionary approach to leadership, storytelling, and brand development, Jacuzzi brings a deep understanding and passion for both the heritage and future of the automobile. “I cannot adequately express my excitement that Joe Jacuzzi will assume leadership of America’s Automotive Trust this January,” Madeira said. “Joe’s vast experience in the automotive and other industries, and expertise in marketing and communications will enable the Trust to fulfill its vision of ‘honoring the past, celebrating the present, and driving the future’ of our automotive culture under his strong leadership. I am honored that Joe believes in the mission of the Trust and as I prepare for my new exciting role focused on strategic initiatives for AAT, I will do all that I can to assist him as he leads the Trust to greater prominence.” “I am honored to join the AAT team,” Jacuzzi said. “AAT’s mission of promoting trade skills, education, and the celebration of automotive culture are incredibly important to the country. And with the stunning LeMay – America’s Car Museum as the crown jewel, I’m very excited to work with the AAT Board, the team, donors and volunteers on continuing to advance their key initiatives and fueling the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.” Under Madeira’s stewardship, America’s Automotive Trust evolved from a visionary idea into a national institution. What started over two decades ago as a concept for the Harold E. LeMay Museum, David Madeira led the campaign to build what would become LeMay – America’s Car Museum. In order to expand the influence of America’s Car Museum and help pioneer the future of car culture, David founded America’s Automotive Trust in 2016 as a national organization that brings together like-minded organizations that honor the past, celebrate the present, and drive the future of the automotive community. “Replacing a founding CEO of David’s caliber is a very difficult task. His leadership and vision has been exceptional,” said Michael Towers, Chairman of America’s Automotive Trust. “Joe brings those same qualities to his new role. Having them working together on the same team is a Chairman’s dream come true. With Joe and David working together, an exciting new chapter is opening for AAT.” Joe Jacuzzi transitioning into the CEO role marks an inspiring new moment for AAT and its entities as the organization looks toward the future with major initiatives on the horizon — including leading a once-in-a-lifetime cross country drive across Route 66 at the beginning of the year, as well as the development of a new state of the art robotics center, expanded educational programming for the future generation, and a dynamic lineup of exhibitions and events coming in 2026 and beyond. ### About America’s Automotive Trust America’s Automotive Trust works to preserve America’s automotive heritage and inspire the next generation of enthusiasts and innovators by bringing together like-minded organizations that honor the past, celebrate the present, and drive the future of car culture to make a greater impact. Founding member organizations LeMay – America’s Car Museum, RPM Foundation, and premier membership programs Club Auto and Concours Club, as well as our affiliated partners, work together to foster a strong community where any enthusiast can thrive – from the classroom, to careers, to the open road. America’s Automotive Trust is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, visit americasautomotivetrust.org. CONTACT: Jake Welk – Marketing Manager 253.225.5623 | jake.welk@aat.org

On the latest episode of the America's Automotive Trust podcast, Fuel for the Future, host Michael May chats with automotive performance legend Steve Saleen. The conversation arrives just in time for the launch of The Birth of the American Supercar , a brand-new display opening October 25, 2025, at LeMay – America’s Car Museum in Tacoma. The display is guest curated by Saleen himself, offering visitors an inside look at the innovation, engineering, and spirit that have defined America’s most iconic high-performance vehicles. In this episode, Saleen shares stories from his remarkable career, from his early racing days to founding Saleen Automotive, the company behind some of the most distinctive and powerful American performance cars ever built. Known for reimagining Ford Mustangs, creating the acclaimed Saleen S7, and pushing the limits of design and performance, Steve Saleen has cemented his place as one of the most influential figures in modern automotive history. You can listen to the new episode of Fuel for the Future now on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts , and right here on our website. Tickets are on sale now for the grand opening of The Birth of the American Supercar this Saturday at LeMay – America’s Car Museum. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate American performance with one of the industry’s true icons.

In early September, we hosted our annual Concours Club Gathering and Wheels & Heels Gala, in which we celebrated not just the achievements of America's Automotive Trust and its entities, but the efforts of several people who have left a major mark in the automotive world. From racing and design to collecting and restoring, the America's Automotive Trust Awards honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the automotive industry, car culture, and preservation. Our 2025 winners are: Nicola Bulgari Award: Keith Flickinger Edward T. Welburn Automotive Design Award: Ralph Gilles and Wayne Cherry Jay C. Ackley Master Craftsman Award: Travis LaVine Hagerty Master Collector Award: Wayne Carini American Racing Legends Award: Bob Bondurant (posthumous) and George Follmer We hope you join us in congratulating each of them and their loved ones. You can read more about the winners of our 2025 AAT Award winners here.

A new episode of Hot Wheels Legends: Local Icons spotlights the RPM Foundation and its mission to train the next generation of restoration professionals. Filmed during the 2025 Great Race, the video captures the energy and purpose behind RPM’s support of the X-Cup division—an educational rally experience for high school and college-age teams passionate about vintage vehicles and automotive preservation. During the 2025 event, RPM raised over $50,000 and awarded more than $60,000 in grants and scholarships to support participating youth teams. These funds help cover vehicle restoration, travel costs, and career-building opportunities, ensuring young enthusiasts have access to hands-on learning that honors the past and drives the future of car culture.
Per usual, summer is flying by! We hope you're racking up the miles and enjoying the sunshine. But let's not get ahead of ourselves, there's still plenty of exciting automotive events in the near future. Perhaps we will see you at Pebble Beach in a few weeks, or Hilton Head a little later this fall. Does car season ever really end? If you're as enthusiastic as us, the answer is no! In recent news, the RPM Foundation managed and participated in the Great Race X-Cup, racing from Minnesota to South Carolina. Throughout the journey, the Foundation raised ~$50,000 and awarded nearly ~$60,000 in grants and scholarships! Just a few weeks later, the RPM Foundation team, connected with Lucky Kraken production company, went cameras up at LaVine Restorations in Nappanee, Indiana to film the first episode of a new educational docu-series Endangered Skills , as seen in the cover photo above. At LeMay - America's Car Museum there has been a fantastic response to our current exhibit, Rare & Luxurious: 100 Years of Exceptional Automobiles . If you've yet to see it, be sure to visit soon. It will be closing at the end of September to make room for a brand new, can't miss exhibition. Keep an eye out for an official announcement about this exhibit that is being put together with the help of a guest curator with a name you'll surely recognize! In the coming weeks, we will be hosting Cars & Cigars followed by our annual gala, Wheels & Heels, both of which will take place at LeMay - America's Car Museum in Tacoma, WA. If you'd like to join us at the gala on September 6th for a celebratory evening don't hesitate to RSVP, as limited tickets remain! More information about Cars & Cigars can be found below! We here at the Trust truly appreciate your support, whether that's as a Museum visitor, donor, volunteer or someone simply sharing our passions for automotive history, vehicle preservation, and driving! Thank you for joining our mission to honor the past, celebrate the present, and drive the future of car culture.

Get ready for an unforgettable summer evening— Cars & Cigars: The Seventies Social is set for Saturday, August 2 from 6–10 PM at LeMay – America’s Car Museum , and tickets are officially on sale. This annual event is a favorite among those who appreciate fine cigars, elevated food and drink, and exceptional automobiles. Each year brings a new theme, and this summer, we’re turning back the clock to the 1970s. Expect an evening of laid-back luxury, classic style, and nostalgic fun in a setting unlike any other. Guests will enjoy: Premium cigars in a sophisticated outdoor lounge Handcrafted cocktails and refreshing beverages Savory bites from Stanley & Seafort’s, Table 47, and Anthony’s Live music inspired by the sounds of the era A curated selection of classic cars displayed on the plaza Whether you come for the cars, the company, or the warm summer breeze, Cars & Cigars offers the perfect blend of style, flavor, and atmosphere. It’s the ideal night out to gather with friends, meet fellow enthusiasts, and celebrate the finer things—1970s style. Tickets are limited and expected to sell out. Reserve yours now and prepare for a night of retro sophistication.

From cross-country adventures to exhilarating new exhibitions and youth-powered racing, the future is bright for America's Automotive Trust! Plans are already underway for the return of The Drive Home, set for January 2026. This time, we’ll be cruising the legendary Route 66 from California to Illinois before heading to the Motor City for the Detroit Auto Show, all in honor of the 100th anniversary of America’s most iconic highway. Stay tuned to find out where you can catch us as we drive classic cars more than 2,000 miles across the nation. In Tacoma, Rare & Luxurious: 100 Years of Exceptional Automobiles is now open at LeMay – America’s Car Museum . This stunning new exhibit explores a century of style, performance, and prestige, featuring icons like the Mercedes-Benz 300SL, Lamborghini Miura, Duesenberg Model J, and Ford GT. This tribute to the art of the automobile is a can't miss! On the RPM Foundation front, the future is shifting into high gear. Preparations are underway for the 2025 Great Race X-Cup, happening next month, where student teams will showcase their skill on the open road. The RPM team is also kicking off filming for Endangered Skills, an all-new video series spotlighting the vanishing techniques that keep restoration traditions alive. As we celebrate car culture past, present, and future, we wish everyone a joyful, thrilling, and safe car season. Stay tuned, stay engaged, and above all, keep driving what you love.

America’s Automotive Trust, the Detroit Auto Show , and the National Route 66 Centennial Commission are proud to announce The Drive Home VII: Route 66 – A Century of Adventure , a once-in-a-lifetime cross-country drive celebrating the 100th anniversary of the legendary Route 66. This commemorative event will begin on January 3, 2026, in Santa Monica, California, and span the full length of Route 66, arriving nine days later in Chicago, Illinois on January 12, 2026. The Route 66-era vehicles will then “drive home” to be on display at the world-class Detroit Auto Show beginning on January 14, 2026.

LeMay - America's Car Museum recently hosted our annual Wine & Wheels event, showcasing the fantastic wineries that have supported our Wheels & Heels Gala over the years. Taking place in the Showcase Gallery, 175 guests enjoyed tastings from ten PNW wineries and delicious bites from Café Pacific. Thank you to everyone who attended!
