PHOTOS BY PAUL HITZ
WRITING BY NIKKI FLASH
We arrived at the Fox Theater for the pre-show meet and greet and were lead to the back room, a large lofty space set up with two open bars, several high top tables covered in black, and a buffet filled with finger-type foods perfect for noshing on the stroll. It was largely empty and as we readied ourselves for the crowd to arrive, an elegant, well-dressed woman set her drink down next to Paul and asked him if she could share his table. It was Kate Leyland who was gracious and humble, wearing a warm smile of pride for her husband. She would spend the evening making small talk with fans and taking pictures of Jim and his supporters with their camera phones. Jim was especially dapper and I almost didn’t recognize him until he turned to me and said hello. He appeared dashing in a suit and colorful tie, not the Tigers uniform we are all so used to seeing. He seemed relaxed and looked years younger.
I munched solo at an open table and was shortly joined by a few patrons. Although we were perfect strangers we eased into conversation about, what else, Detroit and its upward movement. It was a positive gathering as we shared ideas about the city’s current situation and revival. I think my enthusiasm was infectious and we were soon raving about the new restaurants, shops, and good things yet to come for our city. It was my small contribution to this wonderful event.
The grand evening would focus on the dissolution of racial lines and the love and mutual support for Detroit. In addition to Jim Leyland, over 30 celebrities were present, all having ties to our city. The meet and greet portion was open to those who had purchased VIP tickets and all proceeds went to charity, reaching an amazing sum of over $100,000.
The room was soon packed to the rafters and guests were standing in line to get their picture taken with the likes of past Tiger Willie Horton, former University of Michigan football coach Lloyd Carr, members of the sensational musical group the Four Tops, and current Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, to name a few.
The event was hosted by Mitch Albom, best-selling author, journalist, and founder of multiple charities. He makes no secret about his passion for Detroit. He entitled the affair Black and White. It was a tribute to his friendship with the honorable Judge Damon J. Keith, a legend of a man who made unprecedented milestones in the court of law and expresses beaming pride when talking about his city.
“I was born here. I live here. I’ll probably die here!”
Around 7:30 the crowd made its way to the theater in anticipation of an evening of compelling storytelling. Mitch’s celebrity guests did not disappoint. As each luminary took their seat next to the hosts, we became absorbed in their discussion and spellbound by the charm and wit of each guest.
The event that began with a glorious ensemble singing the national anthem ended with thousands of event goers walking to their cars, feeling as if they had just spent a warm cozy evening with close friends.
CHECK OUT THE FULL SET OF PHOTOS HERE
CHECK OUT THE FULL SET OF PHOTOS HERE