Russ Parr (left) of the nationally syndicated radio show “Russ Parr Morning Show”

With revenue declining for the Big Three, industry analysts are toying with the idea of stripping Detroit of her ‘Motor City’ title. Despite the naysayers, the auto previews, red carpets and awards ceremonies were plentiful, and scant profit margins were not enough to draw attention away from what the Motor City has to offer automotive aficionados in 2008.

The 12th Annual Urban Wheel Awards brought fashion, stars and cars to the impeccable Fox Theatre. Rosie Perez and Kevin Frazier hosted this year’s ceremony, which celebrated automotive manufacturers for their commitment to diversity. Ford, Chrysler, GM, Honda and Nissan were among the honored automakers.

“One of the goals of this event is to engender even more diversity in the auto industry in 2008. This, in turn, will create more business for everyone. Next year, we’d like it to be even more difficult for the judges to pick the finalists. And while we always want to make it harder for our judges, we will continue to make it easier for those entities with strong diversity initiatives to participate,” said Randi Payton, president of On Wheels, Inc. –tiffany d. tilley and michele fling

(l–r) Vanessa Williams of R.L. Polk & Co.; On Wheels, Inc., President Randi Payton and his wife, Karen; and Marc Bland of R.L. Polk & Co.

Music producer Damon Dash

Actor Giancarlo Esposito

Musiq Soulchild

Send this Article to a Friend
facebook