Lori L. Mavrigian

Managing Editor

Since joining Modern Tire Dealer in 1979, Lori Mavrigian has held several key positions leading to her current title as managing editor. In addition to handling the day-to-day operations of magazine production, Lori writes features, contributes photography and is in charge of several of the magazines departments. She also works with the magazine's National Advisory Council for the exclusive Ludwig Report surveys. She earned a B.A. in Mass Media-Communications from the University of Akron.

» More

Tire dealer steps it up for charity

By: Lori L. Mavrigian

Steve Case, vice president of Case Tire In Gastonia, N.C., is giving back to his community -- and having a grand time doing it. He's participating in a "Dancing for Future Stars" dance contest!

Due to the economy, many charitable organizations are seeing a sharp decrease in donations. Thus they're being forced to come up with unique ideas to get their share of what limited funds are available.

The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Gaston dreamed up a sort of "Dancing With the Stars" contest that will pit six couples against each other. Each dance team is made up of one area businessperson and a professional dance partner.

Case's competition includes a sheriff, a doctor, a state representative, the president of a medical society and the city's mayor!

The club is asking for donations and selling tickets to the March 6 event. It hopes to raise $25,000 to $30,000.

Contestants have two ways to win. The person who brings in the most donations for the club will be the grand winner. The contestant who impresses the judges the most with their dancing skills also will be crowned a winner.

Case became involved with the contest through his activities in local theater groups and other community networking. He and his dance partner will perform two dances, "a Southern Shag and a ballroom dance of our choice," he says.

When asked if he was a good dancer, Case laughed, "I'm more of what you'd call a 'free-style' dancer! I may fall and bust my butt, but I'll have fun laughing at myself! And I hope others will laugh with me!"

Case tells me he will soon begin practicing three times a week to get ready for the contest. "Im either going to get good, or get funny!" Case says.

Case Tire has two locations offering tires, wheels and automotive services. It was founded by Case's father, Thomas Case, who passed away in 2007. The company's president is Mary Ann Case, his mother.

Case says there has been a lot of buzz about his participation in local news and on the Internet.

He tells me his costumes haven't been decided yet. "As long as they have some give, it will be OK!" he says.

Case Tire welcomes the exposure, but not the kind split trousers would bring, Case jokes.

Related Topics: Case Tire, Charity