CEO, Martin Management Group
Gail Martin

Gail is a graduate of Wilberforce University in Ohio. In 2008, she completed and graduated from NADA Dealer Academy. She continues the legacy of Cornelius Martin that began in 1985, along with her three children, Amber, Chadwick and Coleman, as owners of twelve automotive dealerships and two Harley-Davidson dealerships, Martin Management and Co-Mar Aviation. Gail was chairwoman of the Kentucky Foundation for Women Board and was the 2007 recipient of the Sallie Bingham Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to women and the arts in Kentucky.

She has also served on several community and nonprofit boards including: Western Kentucky University Kentucky Museum and Library Council, Capitol Arts Board of Directors, First Chairwoman for Western Kentucky University Women's Studies Fundraising Council, Endowed the Gail Martin Faculty Development and Lecture Series, Miami University Parent's Council, Western Kentucky University Foundation, Kentucky Foundation for Women Board, Friends of Riverview Board of Directors, Hobson House, Wheaton College President's Commission, and the Executive Advisory Council Prevention Partnership Anti-Drug Youth Program.

Cadillac ATS - 2013 Urban Car of The Year

According to Urban Wheel Awards juror and syndicated automotive reviewer Arv Voss of Auto Impressions: "The ATS is its own vehicle - the most significant Cadillac to be launched since the first CTS. It showcases new technologies, along with an exceptional driving experience. Quick, nimble, and fun to drive, the all-new 2013 Cadillac ATS is a true compact luxury sports sedan." "The ATS is the latest and most significant step in Cadillac's long-term mission to return to being the standard of the world," says Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac Marketing. "That makes it especially rewarding to have ATS recognized by experts on the leading edge of cars and culture."

Ram 1500 - 2013 Urban Truck of The Year

Urban Wheel Awards juror and freelance automotive reviewer Tamara Warren said of the Ram: "The 1500 is still a big gun on the outside, even while it's both leaner in appearance and more aerodynamic. There's plenty under the hood, yet it's amazingly quiet. Further, the Ram rides and drives like a comfortable sedan." "Receiving this award from dedicated automotive media is a great honor and it creates positive influence among buyers," said Fred Diaz, President and CEO-Ram Truck Brand and Chrysler de Mexico, Chrysler Group LLC. "I would very much like to thank the Urban Wheel Awards jury for presenting our 2013 Ram 1500 with their most coveted title for trucks, Decisive Magazine's 2013 Urban Truck of the Year."

Tesla Model S - 2013 Urban Green Vehicle of The Year

Of the Tesla, UWA juror Kimatni Rawlins of Automotive Rhythms said: "The Model S redefines electric mobility. Range anxiety is virtually eliminated with this electric car's ability to travel 300 miles on a single charge. Speed is part of the equation too-the Model S is capable of running from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds." "Model S represents a turning point in the automotive industry, pushing not only the envelope for performance and utility, but for the overall adoption of EVs," said George Blankenship, Tesla Motors Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Ownership Experience. "Receiving this recognition from such a diverse and discerning panel of judges is very meaningful for Tesla."

To Be Announced

Hyundai Veloster - Urban Car of The Year

According to Lyndon Conrad Bell, Decisive Auto's editor in chief: "Veloster's combination of a hip and edgy image, along with exceptional value to price and outstanding fuel economy perfectly suit it for urban drivers. That Hyundai chose to make its halo car an entry-level model excites us even more. With Veloster, Hyundai proves definitively that high style and reasonable pricing absolutely can go together."

Range Rover Evoque - Urban Truck of The Year

According to Lyndon Conrad Bell, Decisive Auto's editor in chief: "Evoque's compelling blend of a long and deeply respected heritage; sinfully indulgent luxury; outstanding capability both on the road and off; all married to pure, unadulterated sex appeal made this award a slam-dunk for Land Rover. Then, on top of all of that, Evoque's small size and exceptional fuel efficiency make it a superlative match for urban environments. In other words, the Range Rover Evoque embraces all of our sensibilities. It's as if Land Rover specifically set out to build the Urban Truck of The Year."

Toyota Prius Plug-in - Urban Green Vehicle of The Year

According to Lyndon Conrad Bell, Decisive Auto's editor in chief: "This is the Prius everyone has been waiting for. Endowing the world's favorite hybrid with the ability to run purely on electric power for significant distances and recharge itself from an AC outlet remade an exceptional urban green car into the ideal urban green car. Thanks to the extended range afforded the Prius Plug-in, in many cases the car will consume no gasoline at all in city driving. Yet, when called upon to travel long distances, it will do so without the dreaded range anxiety that still plagues so many pure electrics. Thus, the perfect urban green vehicle is a reliable long distance tourer too."

African-American Supplier of the Year
Steven Phillips - Chairman, President and CEO, Detroit Technologies, Inc.

Phillips is Chairman, President, and CEO of Detroit Technologies, Inc. (DTI) a Tier 1 supplier in the automotive industry. An accomplished executive and respected leader, Steve's "hands-on" style inspires the DTI organization and several strategic alliances and joint venture partnerships, together to achieve higher levels of quality, sales and customer satisfaction. With over 30 years in the automotive industry, his background in design and engineering has been instrumental in DTI's success to date - including being recognized as a GM Supplier of the Year for the past four years, and a three time recipient of Toyota's certificate of Achievement award.

Asian Supplier of the Year
Wallace Tsuha - Chairman and CEO, Saturn Engineering & Electronics

Wally Tshua founded Saturn Electronics & Engineering, Inc. in 1985. He started with an idea and a business plan, and tenaciously pursued financial resources until he was able to get started with just six employees. Since then, Tsuha, Chairman & CEO, has significantly grown the company to a highly recognized global supplier to OEM manufacturers and their suppliers. Saturn's highly innovative products are designed, engineered, and manufactured for the automotive, appliance and communications industries. In 2010, Saturn Electronics & Engineering was one of forty-seven global suppliers who received Ford's World Excellence for achieving the highest level of excellence in quality, cost and delivery. Saturn operates manufacturing, engineering and sales support facilities in the U.S., Mexico, the U.K., China, Japan and the Philippines

Hispanic Supplier of the Year
David H. Segura - CEO, VisionIT

David Segura serves as Chief Executive Officer and is the founder of VisionIT.

15 years ago, with a strong technology background within a Fortune 10 corporation, Segura combined his zeal for IT with a bold vision to create VisionIT, an IT Managed Services, IT Staffing, and Vendor Management firm. Since that time, Segura has successfully led the company from a startup to a global enterprise working with some of the largest corporations in the U.S. and Latin America.

Segura leads the overall VisionIT corporate strategy and develops executive level relationships with its customers and corporate partners. Under his savvy leadership, VisionIT has become one of the largest and most recognized minority-owned businesses in the United States, operating in 20 U.S. offices, and global operations in Puerto Rico, Mexico, and India.

Throughout his career, Segura has developed strong business partnerships with notable Fortune 500 corporations and State and Local government. Segura also maintains strong relationships with many diversity organizations, such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council and the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, while also doing business with many minority-owned firms around the nation.

African-American Dealer of the Year
Thomas Moorehead - President : BMW Mini of Sterling

Thomas Allen Moorehead is the Chairman and CEO of BMW of Sterling and MINI of Sterling. Moorehead opened the 39,000 square foot, state of the art, BMW of Sterling facility nine years ago (2001) with separate showrooms for the BMW and the MINI Cooper brands. Located in Sterling, Virginia the facility sits on a seven acre site in Loudoun County, a prosperous area that many refer to as the Silicon Valley of the East.

The Moorehead store was among the first 70 BMW dealerships in the United States selected to sell the revitalized Mini Cooper brand. The combined franchise currently have gross sales of $130 Million (2009) and employs 135 associates.

BMW of Sterling is among a select group of BMW Centers that has earned the coveted Quality Management Systems Award and Center of Excellence Award. BMW of Sterling sales production ranks it among the top five dealerships in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and among the top 10% of all BMW Centers in the nation; besides becoming the largest BMW Center in the state of Virginia.

Moorehead's mantra is simple; 1) figure out who you are, 2) determine what's important to you, 3) set goals and develop a plan for how you're to get there (education, focus, determination, hard work, some luck) and finally, 4) always look to help others.

Asian Dealer of the Year
Dzung Nguyen - President : Goshen Buick GMC Hyundai

Dzung Nguyen, a native of Saigon, South Vietnam, arrived in the United States in 1975. He enrolled at the University of Minnesota, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 1981.

Following graduation, Dzung launched a sales career with IBM, earning national recognition as IBM's top salesperson. In 1988, Dzung was promoted to Marketing Manager for IBM's Rocky Mountain Region in Denver. In 1991, Dzung joined Lexmark International as District Manager for the company's Western District, where he assumed responsibility for sales and operations throughout eleven states.

In September, 1996, Dzung was accepted into the General Motors Minority Development Program and also enrolled in the National Automobile Dealers Association Academy. He graduated from the Academy in August, 1997, and purchased Showalter Buick GMC in Goshen, Indiana in October of 1999.

Dzung has received numerous awards for his business success. In 2002, his accomplishments were honored by the Lieutenant Governor of the state of Indiana. Readers of The Goshen News also acknowledged Goshen Buick GMC as the "Best Auto Sales" provider in Goshen.

Hispanic Dealer of the Year
Bob Zamora - President : Zamora Automotive Group

As President and CEO, Bob heads up the Zamora Automotive Group. Beginning his career on the sales floor in 1973, Bob brings a realistic grassroots approach to the business, understanding and balancing the needs of all employees. Starting at the ground floor, Bob has a unique empathy for the many challenges employees face today. The Zamora Automotive Group has grown from a small Honda dealership in 1981 to one of the largest and fastest growing privately owned automotive dealer groups in Northern California.

Bob has successfully undertaken dealership formations from the ground up as well as purchased underperforming dealerships and turned them into successful operations. Bob is experienced in land acquisitions, rezoning issues, plan development and facility construction. The success of the Zamora Automotive Group is rooted in the core values that Bob brings from his hard working Mexican American roots. His consistency, steadfast commitment and dedication to excellence continue to drive the organization. Bob believes strongly that the success in the Zamora Automotive Group is a direct result of the efforts of its team members. The Zamora Automotive Group continues to grow because of its long-term quality employees and now has dealerships in Nevada and Arizona.

Executive of the Year
Fletcher V. Davidson - Group VP & General Manager

Group Vice President and General Manager, Toyota Customer Services Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Fletcher Davidson is group vice president and general manager of Toyota Motor Customer Services (TCS) Division, which includes the five after-sale departments of Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. Davidson is responsible for service parts, accessories, product quality, dealer operations and customer relations. In this capacity, he leads a team of 2400 associates who support $3.5 billion in sales.

After joining Toyota in 1973 as parts planning administrator, Davidson served as parts systems development manager, national parts supply manager, national parts logistics planning manager, corporate manager and vice president of distribution and logistics operations for NAPO. Most recently, Davidson was vice president and general manager for NAPO.

Davidson earned a bachelor's degree in industrial technology from California State University, Long Beach and a master's degree in management science from the University of Southern California.

Lifetime Achievement Award
Warren Brown - Automotive Expert

Warren Brown, long considered the "dean" of African-American automotive journalists, has been covering the automobile industry for The Washington Post since 1982.

Interestingly, Brown started covering cars at The Post primarily as a way to ensure his longevity at the newspaper. Advised early on to find something to do that wasn't already being done; and further, to live it and love it, Brown settled on cars.

Today, while he pens detailed accounts of a car's good and bad points, just as all auto reviewers do, Brown also digs deeper. In a Warren Brown review, in addition to learning how a car drives, you'll learn how that car will integrate into your life. In Brown's world, cars are integral components to modern existence rather than mere accessories to what we do. In his reviews, Brown consistently ponders those generally overlooked aspects of automobiles that, when you think about them, actually bear considerable contemplation.

Over the course of his thirty-plus years in automotive journalism, Brown's passion, enthusiasm and overarching intellect have garnered him the respect and admiration of the entire automotive industry. A pioneer in every sense of the word, Brown's accomplishments have blazed a trail many other African-American journalists, both mainstream and automotive, continue to follow to find success.

Pioneer Award
William Perkins - President : Bill Perkins Automotive Group

Bill Perkins' appointment as Chair of the 2012 North American International Auto Show, makes history as the first African American entrusted with the responsibility of helming one of the most significant auto shows in the world. Bill graduated from the GM Dealer Development Academy in 1987. Since then, he has owned and operated five dealerships in Southeastern Michigan. Today, his company, The Bill Perkins Automotive Group, employs nearly 150 people and manages the operations of Merollis Chevrolet in Eastpointe, Michigan and Taylor Chevrolet in Taylor, Michigan. Bill has also served as president of the Greater Detroit Chevrolet Dealers Association, president of the General Motors Minority Dealers Association, a member of the Board of the National Association of Minority Auto Dealers, and chairman of the Auto Dealers Political Action Committee for the State of Michigan.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Gina Hiraizumi

2012 is the year of Japanese-American bombshell, Gina Hiraizumi. With the release of her 2012 Calendar under the photography team behind the KIM KARDASHIAN empire, Slickforce Studios - she is also releasing her first, English album, in the Pop/Hawaiian genre. Adding to an already packed schedule between movies, appearances and global travel, Gina is the star of her own reality show, "Gina & Terrence: Hollywood meets Hardwood" - an exciting new series following the rising careers of herself and fiance, 6'9" basketball star, TERRENCE TOWNSEND - with an exciting NBA future.

Along with an overseas fanbase that's garnered an upward of 800,000+ hits to her youtube, Gina's celebrity endorsement deals include KILAUEA FIRE (Hawaiian Hot Sauce) as seen in the HAWAIIAN AIRLINES MAGAZINE, and NYLA SHOES through dept store, NORDSTROM. Gina is recognized on a global level - she is named as one of the most promising Japanese stars, as seen in THE PENINSULA - a 5 star hotel conglomerate in Tokyo Japan.

Always a crowd favorite, the seasoned performer has sang the National Anthem for the NBA ad MLB of audiences of 50,000+, venues including the STAPLES CENTER, DODGER STADIUM, MADISON SQUARE GARDEN and the ESPN/NCAA DIAMONDHEAD CLASSIC, in Honolulu, Hawaii. She is the first Asian-American singer to perform on the gospel show, PRAISE THE LORD on TBN - the only Christian talk show, consisting of a billion viewers worldwide. It is no surprise, since her vocal training was nurtured at THE JUILLIARD SCHOOL in New York City.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Roop Raj

Raj began his TV career at 14 when he created, produced and hosted his own public-affairs talk show on the Troy, Michigan government access station. One year later, he was deemed one of the nation's youngest TV personalities when he appeared on The Phil Donahue Show.

While attending Michigan State University, where he majored in journalism, Raj worked at the Lansing, Michigan CBS and ABC affiliates, where he shot and edited his own reports. Raj, received national attention on MSNBC for his coverage of shooting at a Michigan elementary school. Shortly after, Raj worked as a reporter, anchor and weatherman at the NBC station in Flint, Michigan for four years.

Raj spent the last seven years in New Orleans as morning news anchor and reporter at WDSU, covering the before and after math of Hurricane Katrina.

There is truly no place like home, Raj made his way back to his home town Michigan, where he currently works as a news anchor during FOX 2 News Weekend and a general assignment reporter.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Lauren Fix

Lauren Fix, The Car Coach, is an automotive and lifestyle expert, she has appeared numerous times on Oprah, TODAY, 20/20, Regis & Kelly, The View, CNBC, CNN, FOX News, Headlines News and MSNBC to name a few. Lauren is seen and heard everywhere. Author of her third book: Lauren Fix's Guide To Loving Your Car;

Lauren is the National Automotive Correspondent for Time Warner Cable hosting the Car Coach segments airing twice a week and hosted of Talk 2 DIY Automotive.

She is a nationally recognized automotive expert in car care, repair, safety issues, buying and selling autos, and driving skills. A member of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and an ASE certified technician.

Lauren writes a regular weekly column for the Buffalo News, Sunday Edition called Car Fix.

Lauren Fix is a 2008 Automotive Woman Of The Year, 2010 Woman of Distinction - Entrepreneur winner and inducted into the National Women and Transportation Hall of Fame in 2009.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Shelby Fix

Shelby Fix, the Teen Car Coach, is the daughter of Lauren Fix-The Car Coach, a nationally recognized automotive expert in car care, repair, safety issues, buying and selling new and used cars and trucks, and driving skills.

Shelby is the spokesperson for Midas Automotive and past spokesperson for the Skip Barber Driving School-New Driver Program, she is co-writing a book with her mother for new drivers. As a new driver who has been involved in go-karting and professional racing with her family her whole life, Shelby is the perfect "go-to" girl for teens to get their information and knowledge. She has contributed her talents about cars to CNN International, Fox News, YNN, Channel One News, radio, television and web content.

She inherited her love of all things automotive from her mother and father, who own a manufacturing business as well as restoring and racing cars. Shelby has been involved with the process since she was a child. She has been advising other teen drivers for almost all her life. Shelby Fix has an amazing "trust" and "credibility" connection with teen viewers everywhere.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Justin Durant

Detroit Lions starting linebacker, Justin Durant, is all about substance. No matter what he's doing, it's the tangible, measurable matter that counts most in his book. For example, at 6'1" and weighing 240 pounds, the Hampton University alum's stature isn't that of the typical player in his position. That didn't stop the the five year NFL veteran from playing in fifty career games with forty two starts, 292 solo tackles, two sacks, two interceptions and twenty two tackles-for-loss.

In addition, historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), like Hampton University, aren't the first places professional scouts look for new talent. Still, after helping his team win three championships in a row, being the first player to earn MEAC defensive player of the year honors three years in a row and being selected as Sheridan Broadcasting Network Black College All-American three times (an honor he shares with Hall of Famer, Shannon Sharpe), the former sports management major was picked by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second round of the 2007 draft.

His commitment to Detroit and its citizens doesn't end when he takes his helmet off, though. With community issues close to his heart, he looks forward to working with initiatives around the city, especially those that aid children. During the 2009 off season he established a program with his fellow Jacksonville Jaguar linebackers to make bi-weekly visits to Wolfson Children's Hospital. He plans to engage in similar activities in his new city.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Damian Gregory

Damian Gregory is a Michigan native, and was born in Ann Arbor Michigan. He spent his youth in Lansing Michigan where he attended Sexton High School. He received a scholarship to Indiana University in Bloomington Indiana and graduated in the class of 2000. At Indiana University he was a three-year starter, voted "All-Big Ten", appeared in 31 games with 22 starts and registered 125 tackles. He spent his last year of his college career with Illinois State University, where he was voted team MVP, 1st Team All-American and served as Team Captain voted by players and staff.

In May of 2000 Damian signed as a free agent with the Miami Dolphins where he played Nose Guard and Tackle. After two years with the Dolphins in 2002, Damian signed with the Cleveland Browns where he played Defensive Tackle and Nose Guard. In 2003 Damian moved to Oakland where he played with the Oakland Raiders as Nose Guard. In 2004 Damian played a year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as Defensive Tackle. He also played in the NFL Europe League with the Scottish Claymores in 2004, where he was voted Team MVP, "All Europe First Team" and "Lineman Of The Year". In 2006 Damian spent his last playing year with the with Michigan's own Detroit Lions, where he played Nose Guard and Defensive Tackle.

After a six-year career in the NFL, Damian founded Gridiron Marketing Group LLC in April 2005. Gridiron Marketing Group specializes in investment property, foreclosures, short sales, buying and selling commercial and residential property, and remodeling. Gridiron Marketing Group also provides commercial and residential development planning, marketing and funding of housing initiatives, which include rental housing projects allowing low-income families with quality affordable housing.

Damian has spent every year since the end of his college career serving as a coach to several youth football camps, and various weekly football clinics in the United States and Scotland, such as the Jay Fiedler Volunteer Camp, the NFL Youth Activities and Team camps and several others.

Celebrity Award Presenter
"Wives of Favor"

The Wives of Favor Reality show will visit women around the world on a quest for finding other wives of favor and hearing their stories. They will share their despairs, triumphs and challenges on various subjects. Wives of Favor is a reality show designed to inspire those going through a rough time, share ways to cope with various real life issues and enlighten women of all ages, while invoking more confidence than they thought possible. The Wives of Favor will be the "Oprah meets Extreme Home Makeover" of reality TV. We will hear from women of all ages as they share their lives with us and we share how they can use Favor as a tool. There will be seven permanent cast members, all with life experiences that will enlighten and inspire yours. Guests will join us from around the world as we make a difference one woman at a time. We won't throw glasses or punches but we will throw out some self-help, and be an open book for you, providing possible solutions to everyday drama.

Each wife has a story to tell filled with pearls of wisdom, heartache and triumph. We'll talk it out, until we work it out. We have chosen "Favor" as a tool to be better, live better and share how we did it. From domestic abuse to child abuse, our lives will be an open book for you to read and connect with. Some call it fate, good fortune, luck, the Universe, karma or even a blessing. The wives call it favor and want to share with you how it has changed their lives and can change yours too. By knowing how to tap into that power you can get through just about anything. Tune in and hold on tight. It's going to be a fun ride!

Celebrity Award Presenter
Debbi Morgan

Born in Dunn, N.C., Debbi Morgan was raised in the South Bronx of New York City. Her early love of performing found an outlet in High School where she landed the role of "Puck" in a musical version of "A Midsummer Night's Dream". Encouraged by off-Broadway producer Jim Mendenhall, Morgan appeared in several commercials before joining the New Federal Theatre Company. Her theatrical career includes roles in the Broadway hit "What the Wine Sellers Buy", and in the off-Broadway production of "Does the Tiger Wear a Necktie?" and in the Los Angeles productions of "My Sister, My Sister" and "Once in a Wifetime".

Ms. Morgan's career over the past twenty years has shown how diverse her body of work has been by the numerous colorful and deeply captivating roles she's portrayed. In the controversial film, "Color of The Cross" Morgan portrayed "Mary", the Mother of Jesus. She co-starred in the provoking film, "Woman Thou Art Loosed" along with Kimberly Elise, Loretta Divine, and the Reverend TD Jakes. She appeared opposite Samuel L. Jackson in the feature film "Coach Carter", and "Back in the Day" alongside Ving Rhames and Ja Rule. Debbi's other film work includes the popular New Line Cinema basketball drama "Love and Basketball", where she played "Nona McCall" opposite Omar Epps and Dennis Haysbert. Morgan also starred opposite Denzel Washington in Norman Jewison's "The Hurricane", which won her an NAACP Image Award Best Actress nomination.

Morgan has worked extensively in primetime with appearances in the CBS movie of the week "The Runaway" and the classic "Roots: The Next Generation". Fans were delighted to find Ms. Morgan back as a weekly staple when she starred with Lea Thompson in the Lifetime series "For the People". Following that Morgan worked with famed directors Albert and Allen Hughes on the USA pilot "Touching Evil".

Celebrity Award Presenter
Al Pina

Al Pina is considered a national minority community leader in the field of community economic development of minority communities across the United States. His For-Profit model has been adopted by over 110 minority non-profit organizations throughout the United States. Born and raised in Phoenix Arizona and graduate of Arizona State University School of Business. After graduation with business honors, he was an executive for two fortune 25 companies and received four Corporate Presidents Awards and a prestigious Chairman's Award. A veteran of the United States Air Force, he has received several medals and citations including the prestigious congressional Air Force Achievement Medal.

Al Pina has worked with minority communities around the United States advocating the For-Profit Community Economic Development Model that primary focus is job creation in low-moderate income communities. Al Pina has worked with over 180 minority community development organizations throughout the United States to assist in developing and expanding their asset base that would allow them to increase their capacity and ability to be self-sufficient. Al Pina, formally Vice President of Development for the country's largest Community Development Corporation has served on over 35 minority community organizational boards. He was also part of the development team of three national minority investment funds, including the first national Hispanic CDFI Bank and a minority focused Small Business Investment Company with a combined investment capital of over $310 million. In addition, Mr. Pina was the key principal in the development of the Wachovia $500 million Minority Automotive Financing Initiative.

Al Pina has been responsible for the development and launching of over 72 minority organizations/initiatives across the United States, including an historic "Florida War on Poverty" in partnership with Brandeis University, National Latino Automotive Council and the Ricardo Montalban Performing Arts Foundation.

Celebrity Award Presenter
David Lizãrraga

Dr. David C. Lizãrraga is President and CEO of TELACU/Millennium. Under the leadership of Lizãrraga for more than 35 years, TELACU grew to become the largest Community Development Corporation (CDC) in the nation, focusing its more than $600 million in assets on improving the lives of individuals and families in the communities it serves. For five years, Lizãrraga served as the National Chairman of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, which represents the interests of our nation's more than three-million Hispanic-owned businesses.

Lizãrraga created the innovative model on which TELACU is structured. The parent non-profit CDC delivers programs that serve the needs of communities-services for young people, veterans, families and senior citizens. However, TELACU differs from other CDCs in that its non-profit programs are primarily self-sustained by TELACU Industries, a family of businesses owned by TELACU. Utilizing Lizãrraga's business philosophy of generating a double bottom line-profitability that is inseparable from social impact-these 13 for-profit businesses provide valuable products and services to the community, such as jobs, affordable homes, small business loans, and the creation of community assets. And TELACU utilizes a significant portion of the earnings from these businesses to fund its non-profit programs. This cycle of community investment is the engine that sustains TELACU.

Special Musical Performer
Lisa Deveaux

Lisa Deveaux combines amazing beauty with blissful talent. Lisa Deveaux’s “Language of Love” cd is an impressive artistic statement of an astonishing vocal talent. Sultry, soulful and seductive, Lisa Deveaux has won praise from both critics and audiences worldwide for her powerful ability to truly touch and inspire people with her beautiful voice and stunning presence. She has released two international TOP selling jazz/soul CDs within the past seven years and has toured nationally. This lady inhabits a song with innocence and sensitivity and it’s with that same sensitivity that Lisa Deveaux mesmerizes audiences wherever she goes. Uplifting and captivating, her voice embraces jazz, pop and soulful nuances. www.lisadeveaux.com

Celebrity Award Presenter
Elizabeth Gallagher

Elizabeth Gallagher leads a global business marketing and public relations firm. As an advocate her passion has been to develop, advance and promote minority owned businesses. GGI initiated the Power of Diversity Series, which honors Fortune 500 corporations, minority owned enterprises and premier leaders that champion diversity in the global economy. In order for business to evolve and fulfill its primary mission, total inclusion must be at the forefront. Previously, she was President & CEO of SAVI Construction and Condor Training and Aviation where she worked with clients such as Donald Trump, Richard Branson, MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment among others. Gallagher is the immediate past Vice Chair of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce where she represented 3.1 million Hispanic owned businesses.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Frankie Darcell

Frankie Darcell started her career as an undergraduate at Morgan State University’s WEAA FM station in Baltimore, where she was a station engineer for then talk show host Kweisi Mfume. After working her way up through the ranks, she moved on to become Music Director and Assistant Program Director in Raleigh-Durham and Charlotte, North Carolina, before moving to Detroit in 1993. Frankie is currently the host of the award winning show, the Afternoon Mix and the public Affairs show “Sunday Talk of the Town”. Frankie is an author of two successful books, a lecturer and a business woman. She has appeared on four magazine covers, been featured in more than five hundred articles and publications, and can be found frequently appearing on both local and national television and radio programs discussing topics that matter to the community; especially issues that relate to the quality of life for women and children.

Currently, Frankie’s responsibilities include the Clear Channel Premium Choice Radio Broadcasting Network syndicated weekend radio show in 22 markets. Those markets include Miami, New Orleans, Chicago, Memphis and Norfolk Virginia. Frankie Darcells Executive Producer accomplishments include Eve Enslers’ Vagina Monologues, an off Broadway production. As well as Miss Metro Teen Pageant which gifted $25,000 in scholarships to young women. Frankie is a proud graduate of Morgan State University with a Bachelors of Arts degree in Telecommunications. She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Additionally she is a recipient of several major industry awards and recognitions from such dignitaries as the Governor, Mayor, City Council, United States Congress and the community.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Alfredo Estrada

Alfredo José Estrada was born in Havana, Cuba and graduated with honors from Harvard University. After practicing law, he founded HISPANIC, an award-winning magazine for U.S. Hispanics. Estrada later moved to Paris and wrote a novel, Welcome to Havana, Señor Hemingway, and the nonfiction Havana: Autobiography of a City. He now lives in Austin and is the Editor and Publisher of LATINO Magazine. It focuses on issues, politics, and culture and reaches a select audience of Latino opinion makers, influencers, and community leaders. Estrada is a nationally recognized expert on Hispanic media has served on the boards of KRLU-TV, the Harvard Hispanic Policy Journal, and other organizations.

Special Musical Performer
Beth Griffith

Beth Griffith is the daughter of Grammy Winning Motown "Funk Brother", Johnny Griffith, who played keyboards on hit songs by Aretha Franklin, Jackie Wilson, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, The Four Tops and the Temptations. Music is in her DNA.

For the past 6 years, Beth has been a tour singer for the great Anita Baker and has performed in 10 countries with her �" at prestigious venues like the Royal Albert Hall in London, Radio City Music Hall and the Greek Theatre.

Also a part-time actress, Beth was recently selected to play the stand-in for Whitney Houston in the movie "Sparkle" which was filmed right here in Detroit. How appropriate since she clearly "sparkles" as the voice of the new "Light Up Detroit" theme song that has been performed at major events all across Metro Detroit. Her goal is to use her voice and this song to inspire the people of this great city to work together to help "Make Detroit Shine." Like her father before her, she is, indeed, a bright and shining musical treasure for the Motor City.

Special Musical Performer
Larry Lee and Back in the Day Band

Larry Lee and Back In The Day was founded in August of 2002 by former NFL player, NFL Executive, and Professional Musician Larry Lee. Larry played 9 years in total with the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, and Denver Broncos. While with the Broncos he played in Super Bowl XXII. After his playing days he became Vice-President of the Detroit Lions during some pretty good years the 90's with players such as Barry Sanders, Herman Moore, Chris Spielman, and Lomas Brown. After spending 18 years total in the NFL he retired and decided to return to his original childhood passion, music. Larry has been a professional bass player for more than 30 years. Having shared the bill with Chaka Khan, Temptations, Fergie, Pussycat Dolls, Little Richard, O'Jays, Cameo, George Clinton, Average White Band, Whispers, Ohio Players, Dramatics, Morris Day and the Time, KEM, En Vogue, Gap Band, Boyz II Men, Ledisi, War, Brian McKnight, Rick Springfield, Isaac Hayes, and others Larry Lee and Back In The Day is no stranger to the big stage nor high end Corporate events.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Kelly Johnson

Kelly Johnson is the Sunday Business editor at The Washington Post, where she has edited financial and foreign stories. She's previously worked at The Oregonian in Portland. For several years, she drove a much-loved sea foam green Mini Cooper. Despite Warren Brown's warnings, she often drove too fast. She no longer has a car, but still thrills in reading Brown's column each week.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Hansen Clarke

Congressman Hansen Clarke was elected to represent the 13th Congressional District of the United States House of Representatives in November 2010. The district covers the East Side of Detroit, Harper Woods, all the Grosse Pointes, Ecorse, Lincoln Park, River Rouge, and Wyandotte. Congressman Clarke serves on the House Committee on Homeland Security and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and as the Vice-President of the Democratic Freshman Class. He also is a member of the Congressional Black Caucus and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus.

Mr. Clarke was elected three times to the Michigan House of Representatives and twice to the Michigan Senate.

Born and raised in the 13th Congressional District, Congressman Hansen Clarke spent most of his life on the lower eastside of Detroit. As the son of an African-American mother and Indian father, he was exposed to diverse experiences and ways of thinking. His mother, Thelma Clarke, was a school crossing guard, and his father, Mozaffar Ali Hashim, was an UAW member who worked in the Ford foundry. Hansen’s mother raised him as a single parent after his father died when Hansen was only eight years old.

After passing the Michigan Bar, Mr. Clarke returned to Detroit and dedicated his career to public service. He has worked on the staff of Wayne County Executive Edward H. McNamara and U.S. Representative John Conyers.

Congressman Clarke is married to Choi Palms-Cohen.

Celebrity Award Presenter
Debbie Stabenow

Born in Gladwin and raised in Clare, Debbie Stabenow knows what matters to Michigan. Elected to the United States Senate in 2000, she is respected for her ability to build coalitions to get things done for Michigan and our nation.

As Chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, and a member of the Senate Energy, Finance, and Budget Committees, she has a powerful and unique role to play in shaping our nation's manufacturing, health care, and agriculture policies, which are so critical to our future.

Among her many accomplishments, she has cut taxes for small businesses and passed initiatives to revitalize our manufacturing sector. In 2009, she authored the successful "Cash for Clunkers" program that gave a critical boost to the auto industry and manufacturers, and she authored the retooling loan program for advanced manufacturers that is bringing jobs back to Michigan from Mexico.

She serves as Co-Chair of the bipartisan Senate Manufacturing Caucus, and was appointed to the President's Export Council by both President Bush and President Obama, where she helps Michigan companies export their products overseas.

She is a true friend and fighter for Michigan.

Celebrity Award Presenter
John Dingell

DINGELL, John David, Jr., (son of John David Dingell), a Representative from Michigan; born in Colorado Springs, El Paso County, Colo., July 8, 1926; attended Capitol Page School, Washington, D.C., and Georgetown Preparatory School, Garrett Park, Md.; Page, United States House of Representatives, 1938-1943; B.S., Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., 1949; J.D., Georgetown University Law School, Washington, D.C., 1952; United States Army, 1944-1946; lawyer, private practice; research assistant, United States Circuit Judge Theodore Levin, 1952-1953; assistant prosecuting attorney of Wayne County, Mich., 1954-1955; delegate to the Democratic National Conventions in 1956, 1960, 1968, 1980 and 1984; elected as a Democrat to the Eighty-fourth Congress, by special election to fill the vacancy caused by the death of his father, United States Representative John D. Dingell, Sr., reelected to the twenty-seven succeeding Congresses (December 13, 1955-present); chair, Committee on Energy and Commerce (Ninety-seventh through One Hundred Third Congresses and One Hundred Tenth Congress).

Pioneer of the Year Award Recipient
Jenell Ross
President - Bob Ross Motor Cars (Buick, GMC, Mercedes Benz, Fiat)

Jenell Ross is the recipient of the 2013 Urban Wheel Pioneer Award. She is the only second-generation African-American female automobile dealer in the country. Ross� Mercedes-Benz of Centerville is the first African-American owned Mercedes-Benz dealership in the U.S. and the only Mercedes-Benz dealership anywhere owned by an African-American woman. Ross is a member of the board of directors of the American International Automobile Dealers Association, and has been elected to the post of Chair of that organization for 2013. This will make her the first African American to hold that position. An active member of the Dayton community, serving on numerous boards, foundations and community service organizations, Ross has been honored on many occasions for her exemplary work.

Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient
Kathy Jackson
Legendary Automotive Journalist

Kathy Jackson is the recipient of the 2013 Urban Wheel Lifetime Achievement Award. She is celebrated for her 21 year storied career as an automotive journalist with Automotive News. Kathy's decorated career included reporting for Automotive News Europe, serving as Editor-in-Chief of Automotive News Marketer, and expanding Automotive News' coverage of Asian automakers based in Southern California. Throughout her career, she has always been the first woman or the first black or both in the positions that she has held at Automotive News, as well as in the early days of her career working in radio and at Crain's Detroit Business. Kathy is recognized as one of the best reporters to have ever covered the auto industry.

Gospel Recording Artist and Award-Winning Vocalist
Vicki Winans

The name "Winans" and gospel music are synonymous and Vickie Winans definitely lives up to her name after 28 years of continuously singing the good news of Jesus Christ. The captivating vocals of this multi-talented artist are like a soulful, fine tuned instrument that piques the emotions, and uplifts the spirit. Vickie lends a high-powered, energetic, yet smooth and inspirational style as showcased in all her Grammy-nominated, Stellar Award and NAACP Award Winning albums.

In addition to being one of the industry's most beloved and respected artists, Winans is in firm control of her career. She manages herself and is the President of Viviane, Inc., her Detroit-based management company where she books and performs approximately 200 shows a year. However, Vickie says her favorite "job" is being the proud mother of her 2 sons, hit producers and singers, Mario Winans and Marvin Winans, Jr. and "Nani" to her 4 beautiful grandchildren!

Reaching the impressive internationally renowned plateau took Winans an enormous amount of hard work, determination, sacrifice, and faith. Realizing this, she insists she's quite grateful, and takes nothing for granted. "Although I've had my share of heartaches, pain, and sickness over the years, I know that God has truly blessed me. It's because of Him that I have a fantastic family, great friends, and a rewarding career!"

Award Winning News Anchor
Carolyn Clifford

Carolyn's most memorable moments in her broadcasting career include interviewing President Barack Obama, Oprah, Barbara Walters, and NBA Legends Michael Jordan and Earvin "Magic" Johnson. Carolyn has covered everything from hurricanes in North Carolina to former South African President Nelson Mandella's first visit to Michigan after he was set free from prison. However, most meaningful to Carolyn is when many of Channel 7's stories have helped change the lives of our viewers whether we offered free flu shots during a shortage across the country, or when we found women in need of mammograms free sites to get the test.

Carolyn has received several awards for her reporting and anchoring. She is an eleven-time Emmy winner, including three Emmy Awards for Best News Anchor. She has also received awards from the Associated Press, the Michigan Association of Broadcasters and was given a special honor by the Karmanos Cancer Institute as one of their "Heroes of Breast Cancer."

Publisher and Editorial Director
Peter Brown

Peter Brown became publisher of Automotive News in January 2010. He had been associate publisher and editorial director since 1992. He continues to lead the expanding Automotive News Group to dramatic growth and greater global prominence.

Mr. Brown oversees more than 65 automotive reporters and editors around the world, from Detroit to Paris, Brussels, Munich, Tokyo and Beijing. In addition to his editorial responsibilities, he also leads the sales, marketing and circulation departments.

The Automotive News Group is the world's leading source of industry news, analysis and data for automotive executives. It comprises two trusted print publications and four Web sites, as well as e-mail newsletters, breaking news alerts, webinars, a daily newscast and a myriad of conferences and events.

General Manager and Co-owner
Freedom Toyota Chrysler Jeep
Evelyn Chatel

Evelyn Chatel is General Manager and co-owner of Freedom Toyota and Chrysler/Jeep in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Her career has been marked by significant accomplishments, due to her professional ambition, passion for the automotive business, and genuine caring for her customers and community. This June she celebrated her 30th year in the auto business and is still going strong.

Evelyn's diverse professional experience and her "from-the-heart" giving nature are in perfect concert with Freedom Auto Group's core business philosophy of "people come first!" Since her arrival at Freedom in 2006, Evelyn has been inspired and delighted to play an instrumental role in the success of the company's ongoing philanthropic mission.

The community causes in which Evelyn has been actively involved are many and varied. In 2011, the online "Freedom Toyota Cares" campaign invited the community to visit the Freedom Facebook page and nominate their favorite charity to receive financial support from Freedom. Freedom randomly selected from the nominations and awarded $40,000 in $5,000 increments. The campaign was launched with the "Cars for the Cause" event, a DUI/highway safety educational program cosponsored by Pennsylvania MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Drivers), Freedom Toyota and Toyota Corporation. Evelyn also participated in a similar initiative in 2012 called "Giving Thanks" which once again donated $40,000 to online-nominated local charities.

President, National Association of
Minority Automobile Dealers
Damon Lester

Damon Lester was appointed President of the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD) in October 2007. Damon directs the day to day activities of the association, including membership, government affairs, industry relations, and dealership advocacy.

Damon testified before the House Judiciary and Financial Services Committee(s), as well as the Senate Financial Services Committee during the economic recovery of the Detroit Big 3 automobile manufacturers' request for financial relief. He assisted in the negotiation with the Auto Task Force and President Obama to secure the Memorandum of Understanding with General Motors for "wind-down" dealers. He has also testified before the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding single federal fuel economy standards for automobiles as well as provided testimony before the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding automobile dealer financing and diversity in the automobile industry.

Currently, Damon also serves on the Board of Directors for Americans Well-informed on Automobile Retailing Economics (AWARE) where he focuses on educating consumers on how to make the right vehicle choice and the programs available to them; and the Automotive Trade Association Executives (ATAE), where he brings a more universal approach to addressing issues affecting the auto industry nationwide. This collective effort creates more opportunities for both NAMAD members and all dealers. He is the first African-American to ever serve on either board.

Damon is a member of Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, and the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). He is the 2009 recipient of The Network Journal (TNJ), "40 Under Forty" Achievement Award and a graduate of Leadership Prince Georges, 2010 recipient of the FMCRC John Gamboa Community Leadership Award, 2011 recipient of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition Emerging Leader Award, featured in Real Times Media "Driven" Who's Who in the Automotive Industry publication, and serves on the Board of Directors of DC Central Kitchen.

Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Polk
Marc Bland

Marc Bland is the head of diversity and inclusion at Polk, the premier provider of automotive marketing solutions. Marc focuses on bringing points of view, market analyses and business solutions to the automotive arena with an emphasis on the growing diversity markets to create awareness, education and action in the automotive marketplace.

Marc is a highly sought-after speaker and his thought leadership has been published in the following books: The 85% Niche: The Power of Women of All Colors - Latina, Black, and Asian by Miriam Muley and Black Is the New Green: Marketing to Affluent African Americans by Leonard E. Burnett & Andrea Hoffman.

Marc Bland recently was recently honored by two different organizations for his significant professional and personal contributions to the African-American community. He received the Men of Excellence award from Detroit's Michigan Chronicle, as well as the distinguished national award, Marketing to African-Americans with Excellence (MAAX), by Target Market News.

National Recording Artist
L. J. Reynolds

It was L.J. Reynolds who opened the door to the hearts of the masses with his first solo hit "Key to the World" in 1981 has done repeatedly again and again with 8 albums, numerous singles , busting out with a new twist to his sizzling sound, this time reprising and embellishing upon a Marvin Gaye favorite with his own sensational rendition of "Come Get to This". L.J.'s powerful vocals and limitless range are on display as he puts his own soulful signature on a classic.

L.J.'s powerful tenor adds a smooth soulful groove to Player's '78 Pop/Rock charting hit "Baby Come Back." Another single from 'Get to This', titled "Cheating On Me" is an original ballad written by L.J. that cuts to one's core with raw emotion. All 10 tracks of this new CD are worthy of single release status.

Booking L.J. Reynolds provides a unique entertainment environment for the clientele you desire. 'The Dramatics Featuring L.J. Reynolds' as well as 'The L.J. Reynolds Solo Show' creates the buzz in your market that brings loyal fans in droves. It is a great conversation starter and shows your patrons that you are interested in them having a good time!! Live entertainment preformed by L.J. Reynolds is always a great experience for everyone!

Executive Director of the MI
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Armando Ojeda

Armando Ojeda was named Executive Director of the MI Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in May, 2011. In this role he is responsible for facilitating opportunities for Hispanic business enterprises, mobilizing Latino thought leaders, enabling access to the Hispanic consumer market and attaining MHCC fundraising targets.

The Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce represents its immediate membership as well as the broader interests of the 11,000 Hispanic owned business in the State of Michigan. Among the strategic pillars of the Chamber are: to develop scalability in Hispanic business enterprises and drive leadership and economic development programs that lead to the creation of wealth and enable the economic progress and social mobility of Hispanics in Michigan.

Armando serves on the Board of Trustees of Greenpath, a not-for-profit financial literacy organization.

He holds an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University, is married to the former Kathleen Wier and is the father of two adult children.

National Recording Artist
K'Jon

Singing from the age of eight, K'JON had been dabbling in the business for years. What started out as a hobby was beginning to morph into a career. In 2004, he had the honor of having his song, "Miami," featured on the soundtrack for 2Fast 2Furious. He opened for everyone from Ludacris and Ne-Yo to Raheem DeVaughn. He released a few independent albums that became popular in his hometown. Things were coming together.

What separates K'JON from his contemporaries, besides his lilting vocals, are the production values on I Get Around. You can hear acoustic guitar on the sweeping "Feels Like Love," and the grandeur of a theatrical ballad on "I'll Never Forget."

K'JON's dedication to his craft is helping him to amass a legion of fans of all ages. "A woman left a comment on a website," says K'JON. "She said she was 58 and she loved my music. And then of course, I perform in the clubs and there are teenagers and young adults singing along. In this industry, they want you to pick a demographic. But sometimes, your audience chooses you. And that's a great feeling."

"I'm humbled by the support I've received. I'm honored to be able to do what I love. And I'm grateful for all the blessings I've received thus far," says K'JON. "I can't wait to see what happens next."

President and General Manager of Lum's Auto Center
Lori Lum Toyooka

Lori Lum Toyooka is President and General Manager of Lum's Auto Center, a multi-franchise dealership which includes Toyota, Scion, Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge.

Taking direction from her father, David Lum, Lori has continued the businesses dedication to community support by actively participating in, supporting or creating numerous community events that would either raise awareness or funds for groups or organizations in need. Her business plan is focused on family, community, customer satisfaction and employee satisfaction. As a result, Lum's Auto Center has been awarded the highly regarded "Presidents Award" from Toyota Motor Sales in recognition of overall excellence.

Lori is currently on the Board of Directors of the Oregon Automobile Dealers Association as well as on the Astoria Chinese Park Committee.

Lori has been joined at the dealership by her sisters Julie (Parts Manager), and Pam (Marketing). Her brother Greg is a Librarian/Media Specialist in the Portland Metro area.

DETROIT-WINDSOR DANCE ACADEMY

Mission: To be the vehicle that sets the standard for quality dance education and expression for the Detroit-Windsor International community.

The Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy celebrates its' 29th year this 2012-2013 season.

The Academy has touched the lives of thousands of families during its' evolution. This renowned company founded by Bruce Hunt, Executive Director and Debra White-Hunt, Artistic Director has danced throughout the world leaving behind a reputation of professionalism and excellence. The Academy, located in the New Center I Building in Detroit, MI is a school for student's ages 2 through senior citizens who are interested in studying the art and science of dance. Now in its' 4 generation of students, Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy offers classes in ballet, modern, pointe, jazz-funk, tap, hip-hop, pre-dance, mommy and me, boys to young men, belly dance, street dance, toddler time and worship arts including liturgical. The PRE-PROFESSIONAL and the 'ACORN' programs include multi-level intensive training workshops designed to prepare talented young people for professional careers in dance. Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy has an enrollment of approximately 500 students and a staff of 15. The staff consists of dedicated professionals who find joy in working with and passing on their legacy to youth. In addition DWDA employs several youth as a part of the mentoring program as student assistants in the classroom and business operations. To date 5 dancers who grew up in the mentoring program have opened their own dance schools in the Detroit area. The Friends of Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy help to provide the numerous talent and financial scholarships that are awarded annually to deserving students. The Crystal Ball, annual black-tie fundraiser for the school provides revenue from the greater Detroit Community that supports scholarships as well as the many aforementioned programs. Major supporters include Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Chrysler, Bank One, Comerica, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield.

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President, AIADA
Cody Lusk

Cody Lusk is president of the American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA). Founded in 1970, AIADA represents the 10,000 American automobile dealerships that sell and service international nameplate brands. These retailers have a positive economic impact both nationally and in the local communities they serve, providing nearly 500,000 American jobs. Mr. Lusk's extensive background in trade and other international auto-related issues, combined with his experience at both the Administration and Congressional levels make him uniquely qualified to lead AIADA.

From 2002-2006, Mr. Lusk served as chief of staff to Rep. Sam Johnson (R-Texas-03), a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and a subcommittee chairman on the Education and Workforce Committee. As chief of staff, Lusk served as principal advisor and strategist to the Congressman, managing a broad range of legislative issues, including taxes, international trade, and health care.

Prior to his tenure with Rep. Johnson, Lusk was an appointee of the Bush Administration, serving under Secretary of Commerce Don Evans. In this role, he served as liaison between Capitol Hill and the Secretary of Commerce on all international trade-related issues.

Before joining the Department of Commerce, Lusk spent 10 years as a staff member of AIADA, serving as director of legislative affairs from 1995-2001 where he was responsible for reaching out to members of Congress and other federal agencies on behalf of international nameplate auto dealers. He has worked on several campaigns, including Bush/Cheney 2000, and early in his career served at the Republican National Committee and National Republican Congressional Committee.

Legendary Radio Personality Kiss FM
Tune Up Man

Detroit's airwaves come to life when legendary radio personality, Tune Up Man cracks the mic. For nearly 20 years, Walter Neal, better known as Tune Up Man, has been the consummate media entertainer and host with an impressive radio career based entirely in the Motor City.

Tune Up began his rise to radio fame in 1993 as the morning show producer and co-host of the Mason and Company Show on Detroit's powerhouse station, FM 98 WJLB. Tune Up was undeniable! His contribution to WJLB made the station just as synonymous with strong programming as its tagline slogan "strong songs."

At 105.9 Jamz, Tune Up reigned as the top rated afternoon drive host from 2000 until 2003 when the station migrated frequencies and became WHTD Hot 102.7. During the next four years with WHTD, Tune Up super served the business community as an enthusiastic and persuasive endorser of brands and hosts of some of Detroit's hottest concerts and biggest events. Tune Up Man was now a brand himself and an influential brand spokesperson. With this ability to move people and merchandise, Tune's was now ready to speak to Black radio's savviest audience, the urban adult contemporary listener.

Detroit Medical Centers, Detroit Tigers, Detroit Public Schools, Kroger, Budweiser, Sprite, 1800 Tequila, Avis Ford, Suprior Nissan, and LaFontaine Imports, are just a few of the notable companies that found satisfaction in hiring Tune Up as a spokesperson once he made 105.9 Kiss-fm his radio.

NADA Chairman
William Underriner

Bill Underriner is president and owner of Underriner Motors in Billings, Montana. Underriner started in the automotive business in March 1984 and worked in his family's dealership in various positions, including sales manager, general sales manager, general manager and dealer manager. Underriner is the 2012 chairman of the National Automobile Dealers Association and serves on the board of directors, representing Montana's franchised new-car dealers. He lives in Billings, MT, with his wife, Mary. They have two sons, Blake and Kyle. Blake works in the auto industry and Kyle is a senior at the University of Denver.

Community Service: Underriner is currently a charter member and chairman of the Big Sky Alexis de Tocqueville Society of United Way and is on the American Cancer Society Western Region Board of Directors. He is an active supporter of the Billings Symphony, Billings Chamber of Commerce, Billings YMCA, Festival of Trees, Boy Scouts of Montana, Billings Clinic, Alberta Bair Theatre, School District 2 Drivers Education Program, Montana State University Billings Wine Fest, Ronald McDonald House, St. Vincent Hospital, Camp Make a Dream Cancer Camp for Kids, Rocky Mountain College and Professional Montana Chapter.

Awards: Underriner was recognized for the Buick Royal Purple Sales Group Award for five consecutive years. He received the Prestigious Award of Merit from the Boy Scouts of Montana, St. George National Award from the American Cancer Society, 2009-2010 Billings Gazette Reader's Choice Award Best New Car Dealership and the United Way Citizen of the Year Award. He also was a recipient of the 2009 Philip N. Fortin Humanitarian Award and the 2011 Outstanding Philanthropists for the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Mayor of Detroit
Dave Bing

It's not often, if at all, that one can claim success in three distinct areas - professional sports, business and politics. Yet, Dave Bing did just that when he was elected the 62nd Mayor of the City of Detroit in May 2009. A native of Washington, D.C., Bing is a graduate of Syracuse University where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Economics, and was later bestowed an honorary Doctorate of Laws in 2006. He was also a standout basketball player and an All American in both high school and college.

Dave Bing came to Detroit in 1966 when he was drafted by the Detroit Pistons as their #1 pick. Voted one of the top 50 basketball players of all time, Bing was inducted into the Michigan Hall of Fame in 1984, and into the Naismith Hall of Fame in 1990.

Bing turned his winning strategies from the basketball court to the boardroom as the founder of an automotive supply corporation, The Bing Group in 1980, where he served as President and Chairman until April 2009. Within a decade, The Bing Group was recognized as one of the nation's top Minority-Owned Companies by Black Enterprise.

Answering yet another call to serve, Bing decided to run for Mayor to help rebuild a city that he has loved and been a part of for more than 40 years. Proving that the basics of good performance, integrity and business can be applied to any area or industry, Bing has brought a renewed sense of trust and hope to the City of Detroit.

Dave Bing is married to Yvette Bing, with whom he has shared more than 23 years. He is also the proud father of three, and grandfather of four. He enjoys tennis and golf, as much as his now demanding schedule will allow.

Chairman of the North American International Auto Show
James Seavitt

Not many dealerships can say their original showroom's facade was designed by Henry Ford, or that the chandelier hanging there now was a gift from him. Then again, not many dealerships are candidates for the national registry of historic buildings.

But, Village Ford in Dearborn, MI, can boast all that.

And, its long, distinguished history is crowned with present day success: Village Ford Dearborn is the 22nd largest Ford Dealer in sales volume nationwide today.

Its owner, Jim Seavitt, is not one to rest on laurels - past or present. Seavitt is currently chairman of the North American International Auto Show; on the board of directors of both Ford Dealer Advertising and the Ford Dealer Association; and a member of the Ford Marketing Dealer Advisory Board.

Seavitt is also co-chairman of Henry Ford Hospital's Get Your Heart Racing Fund and has raised more than $900,000 for the cardiology department there. Last year, he helped rent the Ford Motor Company Proving Grounds to give donors test drives with professional race car drivers, Parnelli Jones and Tanner Foust, and honorary fundraiser chairman, Ford CEO Alan Mulally.

Motown's Ultimate Soul Diva
Martha Reeves

It's hard to believe it that it was nearly 50 years ago that Martha Reeves first hit the charts with the bluesy, soulful "Come and Get These Memories." It is especially hard to believe that much time has passed when "Motown's ultimate soul diva" hits the stage. With the unmistakable voice that helped define "the sound of young America," dancing and strutting , keeping the beat with her trusty tambourine and keeping audiences on their feet as they dance down Memory Lane, Reeves is a live wire. Whether performing solo or with the Vandellas, Martha Reeves continues to heat up clubs, the concert stage and music festivals, thrilling audiences across the globe, and always leaving them dancing.

Her hits are the thing of legend: the Grammy-award nominated "Heat Wave," the gospel-tinged "Nowhere to Run," the classic soul favorite "My Baby Loves Me," and her signature, "Dancing In The Street." While best known for up-tempo, hard driving tunes, Reeves' shows are often highlighted by jazzy renderings of Billie Holiday's "God Bless The Child" (included in her self-produced CD "Home to You"), Duke Ellington's "I Got It Bad" or "Mood Indigo" and perennial showstopper, "Love Makes Me Do Foolish Things."

Reeves is the recipient of the Dinah Washington Award, a Rhythm n' Blues Foundation Pioneer Award, a Black Woman in Publishing Legends Award, and has been inducted in the Alabama, Soul, Rock and Roll, and Vocal Group halls of fame. "Dancing in the Street" has been entered into the Library of Congress Registry of Historical Recordings and into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Martha Reeves and the Vandellas are listed among Rolling Stone magazine's "100 Immortal Artists" and Martha herself was named one of the "30 Top Lead Singers of all Time." In 2011, she received a MOJO Award in London, alongside legends such as Ringo Starr, Donavan Leitch and Eddie Floyd.

Today's Martha Reeves is fully exposed in her self-produced and critically praised CD "Home to You." Named by The Asbury Park Press as one of the best blues/root music albums of 2004, Reeves gives both new and older fans the kind of no-frills, straight-forward soul singing rarely heard on contemporary radio. From the blues funk of "Watch Your Back" to the jazzy "God Bless The Child," to "Running For Your Love" recalling old school Motown, this Motown classic proves that she is still a powerhouse.

From November 2005 through November 2009, Ms. Reeves served on the Detroit City Council. Though no longer a public servant, she continues to be one of the city's top ambassadors, performing all over the world, and ensuring that you "can't forget the Motor City."

President & Publisher, Automotive Rhythms
Kimatni Rawlins

Kimatni D. Rawlins is the founder of Automotive Rhythms Communications, LLC, a lifestyle automotive media and marketing portal consisting of Internet, network television, online video, print, radio and event properties. In the ten years of its existence, Automotive Rhythms has positively educated millions of automotive buyers on how they view and purchase new and used vehicles.

Kimatni travels the globe assessing new automobiles and motorcycles and their corresponding technologies for millions of readers and viewers. As an automotive journalist, he has covered hundreds of automotive product introductions and evaluated scores of new cars, trucks, SUVs, bikes and green energy (Autoganic) vehicles. Accordingly, Kimatni and his company have provided and continues to provide car buying guides, video content and automotive columns to an array of national publications and websites including Haute Living, Niche Media, Uptown, iTunes, YouTube, AutoTrader.com, and many more.

Within the television world, Kimatni is the host and Executive Producer of Automotive Rhythms TV, www.ARtvLive.com, which can be viewed on more than thirty online partner websites. ARtv received its network debut in 2006 through a partnership with Comcast's Vibe On Demand. Shortly after, Kimatni and ARtv were picked up by Viacom's BET J.

Kimatni is a recipient of the 40-Under-Forty Achievement Award and held spokesperson positions for Shell Oil in 2006 and 2007. He is also President Emeritus of the 300-member plus Washington Automotive Press Association (WAPA) and currently offers council to the the WAPA board. Kimatni has been interviewed and featured in a cadre of TV programs, websites, newspapers and magazines.

Channel 7 News - Anchor/Reporter
Malcom Maddox

Malcolm Maddox considers himself to be a true Renaissance Man. This former Marine is a self-taught bassist, videographer and multimedia producer.

It took a decade for Malcolm's broadcast dreams to be fully realized, but the journey has been interesting to say the least. He was able to leverage his radio experience into a job at a Central Wisconsin television station as an in-studio camera operator and eventually was promoted to news photographer.

Malcolm's success in the South, paved the way for an opportunity in his mother's hometown of Dayton, Ohio where he served as the Weekend Anchor/Reporter at the FOX/ABC affiliate.

Everything from Detroit's blue collar work ethic to its musical heritage to the legacy of excellence at WXYZ make it absolutely clear that Detroit is where I am supposed to be right now."

Celebrity Author and Journalist
Bankole Thompson

A distinguished multimedia journalist, author and editor of the Michigan Chronicle. Recognized as a leading authority and a sought after speaker on the Obama presidency for his writings about the Obama presidency including his exclusive sit-down interviews with Barack Obama, Thompson, is the author of "Obama and Black Loyalty,"" published in 2010. His most recent book, "Obama and Christian Loyalty" deals with religion and politics in the American presidency with an epilogue by Bob Weiner, former White House spokesman. Thompson is a political news analyst at WDET-101.9FM (NPR affiliate) and a member of the weekly "Obama Watch" Sunday evening roundtable on WLIB-1190AM New York and simulcast in New Jersey and Connecticut.

Artist/Performer, Writer, Producer
Candice Ghant

Candice (Candi) Ghant ~ ("Original" member of the Mary Jane Girls ~MJG's) embodies sophistication, beauty and intelligence. This Motor City (Detroit) native, always knew her destiny was in "Entertainer." Stage (1) started at age 19. This is when she signed her first "Exclusive" Artist and Writers Contract" with Motown Records. Moving to Hollywood was the 2nd stage in pursuing her dream career. Shortly after moving to California Ghant was asked to be a part of an all-female group Softouch (on Fantasy Records) created by Billy Henderson of the internationally known Spinners. After a brief stint with the girls Ghant auditioned for Motown's "King of Punk Funk" Rick James. Being the 2nd young lady picked secured her permanent place with the history making (internationally known) MJG's. Since then, Ghant spent most of her time writing, producing and working with and/or recording background vocals for artists such as: Ice Cube, Rappin 4-Tay, Kidd Frost, Baby Bash, JayTee, Binky Womack, Snoop Dogg, Mack 10, N2Deep, Kurtis Blow, Latino Velvet, K-Dee, Big Daddy Kane, QDIII (son of Quincy Jones), Val Young, Rick James, Peabo Bryson, Bootsy Collins, Phred Mosbey, Smokey Robinson, Nate Dogg, Bobby Womack, George Clinton, Janie Bradford, Klymaxx, Ron Tyson, Johnny Bristol, El DeBarge, Bobby Brown, Paul Jackson, Jr., Jack Ashford, Hank Cosby, Ray Parker, Jr.,( Drak from Slave), Wokie Stewart, Sylvia "Tippy" Smith, Marilyn McLeod and Wayman Tisdale. Ghant has appeared on various soundtracks for example: A Fine Mess (1986) Boyz In The Hood (Ice Cube), True To The Game Movie, Indigo Blues and Missing U (Missing U written by Ghant). Also, Ghant's entertainment arsenal includes theatrical projects like: Phred Mosbey Soundtrack of Indigo Blues, Anutha Music Company's Project and Treat Her Like A Lady (Gospel Play produced by Roy Fegan) featuring Hawthorne James aka Big Red from the Five Heartbeats. "I was Assistant Music Director for the background vocals in the play" Ghant says. Somehow this consistently working (and still eye candy for many men) found time to produced: FLOSS (former Ladies of the Supremes featuring the late Ollie Woodson) and Latino Velvet (Baby Bash and Kid Frost were the groups featured members). Additional projects included the infamous Mobb Squad (Larry Darrell, Thin C. & Lady V) and the Christmas song on Vanessa Bell Calloway cd. This gorgeousness entertainment staple is never short on projects or events. As a matter of fact, the MJG's (featuring Val Young) tour year round and will be in a city near you!!! "If you ever want to find out my latest gig . . . look for something musical" Ghant smiles and nods!

Celebrity Actress
Maria Costa

Maria Costa is one of Detroit's premier artists. She was recently Awarded the 2012 Kresge Foundation Artist Fellowship and Maria has been in several network television show including Ugly Betty, Strong Medicine and Joan of Arcadia. Critics have called Maria the female John Leguizamo and the Latina Lucille Ball for her work in Macho Men and the Women Who Love Them has sold out the Kodak Theatre and toured in 16 Cities and 6 Countries. She will be headlining with Macho Men at the Detroit Institute of the Arts on April 14th. I would also like to extend a complementary invitation for you and a guess for this event. Please feel free to contact me.

Maria has a strong background with awards shows as well - as an NCLR Alma Award nominee and presenter, Nostoros Golden Eagle Award Winner, she has served as Master of Ceremonies for the National Association of Latino Independent Producers Gala and headlined at the NAACP Theatre Awards

President/CEO of Michigan
Black Chamber of Commerce
Ken Harris

Ken has made tremendous landmarks and professional accomplishments at the young age of 37, such as becoming the first African-American Chief of Staff and Executive Assistant to the Mayor of Southfield and the first African-American Director of Greek Affairs at Wayne State University.

Ken founded the Detroit Black Expo, Incorporated (DBE), on May 24, 2004. This nonprofit organization holds a three-day marketplace exposition for Metro Detroit families and business community during the first week in June each year at the Cobo Convention Center in Detroit.

On Tuesday, November 3, 2009, Ken was elected to the Detroit Charter Commission by more than 40, 149 votes. Harris was sworn in on Tuesday, November 17, 2009, by the Detroit City Clerk as part of the nine member commission that will revise the entire governing structure of the City of Detroit.

The Detroit City Charter has only been revised three times in the history of the City of Detroit since 1802 and this historic public office could make a tremendous impact on the city for the next 30-50 years.

Commissioner Harris will work to help Detroit rebuild its economic future and governing policies.