By Kenneth Bowden
Now I’m not usually one for the suit and tie crowd mostly born out of the whole “young adults today” cynicism that I think too many of us up-and-comers are guilty of however, I’d be lying sure as birds are flying, if I didn’t admit I was nothing but thankful and proud to be included in the celebration that was Driven this Wednesday night. From the moment I stepped in the door one could see that this celebration of multicultural achievement is not just another how-to-do, us mid-class types tend to look upon with suspicion, dear readers. While the mariachi band serenaded us all dutifully with a blend of sizzling Latin musical heat and unique spins on such unforgettable tunes as “Friends in Low Places” and the building’s scenery about was splendid and opulent the environment was as warm and humble as it was enchanting.
From the pleasant smile of the attendant at coat check in to the inviting catering provided by Jackson 5 Star Catering (who I’m fairly certain employs what could only be referred to as “hospitality ninjas” because they moved so seamlessly through the crowd you’d barely spot them at work aside from an occasional smile and genuine pleasantries as they held down their end smooth as silk.) there was a culpable energy bustling among the crowd from the get go that cannot be identified as anything other than purely positive and vivacious. In fact those two words, positive and vivacious can just about summarize the entire evening as we celebrated not only multi-cultural achievement in the automotive industry but also the innovative spirit of Detroit itself, the strength and drive unique to the heart of the people, the heart of the city itself.
After a ridiculously infectious and rousing performance by the Chrysler Choir putting their own styling’s atop such hopping tracks as “Happy” and “Lose Yourself” the crowd was pumped and ready to get things underway. The event’s host Roop Rahj was text book on point keeping the crowd clapping and cheerfully chuckling as he not only did a solid job of introducing honorees and kept things moving like a well-oiled machine but he also took the time to relay heart felt sentiment relating his bountiful love for the city he came up in and continues to thrive in. Where it had been his post Hurricane Katrina anecdote reminding all of Detroiters that come Hell or high water “…some cities have to come back…” remarking on the city’s recent economic struggles or that while roughly 1,000 of the city’s inhabitants, the so called criminal element may snatch headlines more often than most of us would like to admit there is well over half a million Detroiters working day in and day out to not only do the right thing but to also working together to help improve this amazing city we all love.
Needless to say this same endearing spirit extended to the honorees as well with awards going to such modern day local legends as the lovely Faye Caballero and Dilip Dubey both receiving Vanguard awards, Frank Venegas who’s contribution to the city’s youth are both small and large including donating over 60 iPads at to risk youth, which while it may not seem like a huge deal on the surface aside from a nifty gift consider it further. In this day and age it is almost impossible for youth today without technological advantages to keep up with their peers, other future leaders of Detroit, Michigan and America at large. Yes, iPads are intended to be an entertainment device but they also grant access to the world wide web and never ending data bank that with just a few keystrokes can be the first step towards discovering a new hobby which may bloom into a future career or at the very least help keep the youth informed with the events of the world around them at large knowledge that will help shape their future goals and desire to impact the city if not the world when they are coming up themselves. From this simple act of putting the option in their hands but also encompasses the point of this event, to promote progress and positivity. I believe this sentiment can be bolstered by Hiram Jackson’s own comments that while there were 500 of us in attendance through social media (facebook, Instagram, twitter etc) many, many, many more people would experience the event with us and spread the night’s uplifting message hilariously adding “if you’re over 40 and at a table with someone under 40 ask them and they’ll show you what to do!”
The fun and laughs didn’t end there as Matt Simoniccini one of 2 award winners for business of the year, gave a brief, humble but charismatic speech denoting a deep appreciation for the award as well as a firing up the crowd by challenging himself and his competitors to each adopt a Detroit Public School and put their wealth directly to use aiding the DPS system which is in the midst of pressing times which budgeting problems and teacher strikes weighs heavily upon Detroit’s youth. He even parted with a smile before firing shots inviting a competitor to “join the winning team.”, confidence, compassion and wise-cracking yeah definitely a Detroiter! And the fun wasn’t over just then Atlanta’s own super producer Jermaine Dupri came out on the stage spinning club banger after club banger from his DJ booth center stage swiftly bringing the house down. He may not be a Detroit native but he was definitely well aware where he was and how Detroit gets down not shying away from getting the crowd as loud and as rowdy as they could and those on the dance floor returned that hype in kind, drinks in the air and hands waving with unapologetic enthusiasm, the message was clear. We are Detroit, we are amazing and we want everyone to know it. This being my first Real Times Media event I was excited to see how they kicked off the year. If DRIVEN is any indication of what’s to come, ladies and gents prepare for one non-stop live 2016 and I for one cannot wait to see what’s next.
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