Friday, February 1, 2008
Page 3
Steve E. Young Elected Chair of Petersen Foundation
By a MetNews Staff Writer
Los Angeles attorney Steve E. Young has been elected chair of the board of directors of the Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation for 2008, the foundation announced yesterday.
The non-profit foundation owns and operates the independent Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, which was founded by Robert E. Petersen in 1994 and exhibits more than 150 rare and classic cars, trucks and motorcycles. Petersen, the since-deceased founder and former owner of Petersen Publishing, built a publishing empire on automotive-themed publications including Motor Trend and Hot Rod Magazine.
Young, 59, is a business and entertainment litigator, and partner at Freeman, Freeman & Smiley, LLP. He has served on the foundation’s board since 2004, has been a member of the museum since its inception in 1994, and is one of the original members of its principal support group, “The Checkered Flag 200.”
A private automobile collector and enthusiast, Young has, at various times, owned hot rods, vintage and modern Ferraris, muscle cars, classic and modern Corvettes, and a number of historic racing cars in which he has competed.
He told the MetNews that he became involved with the museum and the foundation because “it’s an incredible institute that has great value to the city and culture of Southern California, and to the nation and the world.”
He also said that he appreciated the trust and confidence his colleagues on the board had placed in him.
“As chairman, I will do my utmost to live up to the very high standards set by my predecessor…,” Young said. “I am confident that with the continued support of my colleagues on the board, our support groups, museum members and staff, we will continue to broaden the horizons of this great institution.”
The foundation said that Young’s election was the result of the board’s recognition of his leadership capabilities and his vision for the year ahead, which includes seeking out opportunities to cover a broader segment of automotive culture.
Young said that his priority as chair would education, in particular the establishment of a “user-friendly research institute” that will rely on the foundation’s archives and other materials.
The foundation’s executive director, Dick Messer, said:
“I am very excited about the future of the Petersen Automotive Museum with the outstanding leadership we have had in the past, and that we’ll continue to have in years ahead.”
The foundation also announced that its agenda for 2008 will include expansion of the board of directors to support scheduled educational programs and extensive exhibition plans.
Previous chair Alexandria C. Phillips will continue in her role as the board’s chief financial officer. Additional directors include Secretary David Sydorick, William Tilley, and Margie Petersen, Robert E. Petersen’s widow. Messer will continue in his capacity as the museum’s executive director.
The museum is located at 6060 Wilshire Boulevard (at Fairfax) in Los Angeles. A 501(c)(3) qualified entity, it is self-sustaining with operating revenue provided by corporate sponsorships, museum attendance, parking fees, individual gifts, and special events, including its Tribute Nights and annual Gala.
Copyright 2008, Metropolitan News Company