DEARBORN -- Lincoln dealers across the country are preparing for Thursday's "Star-Studded Evening," a special one-night event in their showrooms to familiarize customers with what Ford Motor Company is calling the freshest lineup in the luxury segment. 

"Lincoln and its dealers are inviting customers to get up-close and personal, touch, feel and drive the vehicles, as well as experience our start-of-the-art technologies," said Lincoln MKT Marketing Manager Kate Pearce, who is coordinating the event. 

"We have three new vehicles for the 2010 model year – the Lincoln MKS with EcoBoost and MKZ, as well as the MKT, the brand's first three-row crossover.  We want customers to come away with a whole new perspective of the Lincoln showroom." 

Pearce says dealers are excited about showcasing Lincoln's lineup and that many are planning very creative events. 

"One dealer in New York has commitments from television celebrities Buddy Valastro, star of the program "The Cake Boss," and Dina Manzo from "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" to make appearances.  We are very excited about the level of participation among Lincoln dealers." 

Last year, a similar event was successfully staged to introduce the Lincoln MKS.  

"It’s a more interactive, more engaging experience than a traditional television spot.  We really want Lincoln dealerships to participate with their communities," explained Pearce. 

The event also provides the opportunity to help raise money for breast cancer research.  For every completed test drive a customer takes during Lincoln's Star Studded Evening, a $20 donation will be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure® on behalf of the Lincoln dealer who staged the test drive.