New York City - Manhattan Motor Cars in New York City threw a cocktail reception on Thursday, October 29, to cultivate international trade and cultural connections, and to benefit a number of charities. Amid the gorgeous automotive display, live music and open bar, attendees gathered for an evening filled with goodwill.

Kevin Buckler, champion race car driver, including 2002 24 Hours of Le Mans GT Champion, 2002 Rolex 24 of Daytona GT Champion; and Porsche World Cup Winner, 2002 International Porsche Driver's Cup Winner, among other multiple awards, was all smiles as he greeted fans. In 2007, Buckler formed The Racer's Group (TRG) Motorsports in North Carolina, "with the sole focus on NASCAR driving." Debuting in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series in 2008, the team won its eighth race. In 2009, TRG entered the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, with multiple top finishes featuring champtionship drivers.

This Porsche Spyder drew lots of attention.

Buckler's presence with the new TRG Racer's Group Mercedes McClaran SLR 722 GT drew an excited number of racing enthusiasts, making it amusing to note tuxedo clad men and bejeweled women behaving like groupies.

There were some beautiful and expensive vehicles in the Manhattan Motor Cars showroom, however, one in particular, a circa 1960s classic Porsche Spyder with an aluminum body on a steel frame and polished metal had many of the gentlemen at the reception talking animatedly about the history of this vehicle.

Romay and Yula Rakovsky, Natalia Solelova and Thierry Chauna enjoy the evening.

Among the elegant and stylish Rolls Royces, Lamborghinis, and Porsche vehicles, guests gathered to show support for the benefit of Disabled, Blinded and Hospitalized Veterans, Wounded Warriors USO, Salute America Heroes, Paralyzed Veterans, Vietnam Veterans and others.

With over 50 local, national and international sponsors, a fun filled evening also offered live music by the International Gospel Parade and other groups. The event was produced by Gloria Consolacion T. Cressler, and included vendors offering liquor, wines, spirits, original art, jewelry and fashions - but all eyes were on the glimmering, shimmering, high gloss marvels of automotive history - the cars.

Members of The International Gospel Parade entertain guests.