October 14, 2014 [DETROIT] - “Hot Havana Nights” made for one very cool event as the Conservancy welcomed more than 500 attendees to its fifth annual fundraising gala, Shimmer on the River.  Perhaps best of all, the event raised more than $165,000 for the Conservancy.

Highlights of the September 18 evening included live entertainment, cigar rolling, delectable Cuban cuisine and salsa dancing.  At evening’s end, guests were each given specially made local chocolates from Bon Bon Bon and a just-off-the-presses book of riverfront photography.

A brief program featured remarks by Conservancy leadership including Board chairman Matt Cullen, president and CEO Mark Wallace and CFO Will Smith.  Board member Cindy Pasky, CEO of Strategic Staffing Solutions, which was the Presenting Sponsor of Shimmer on the River, also provided remarks.

During the program, General Motors was honored for its continued commitment to the riverfront revitalization project with the 2014 Shimmer Award.  Board member John Blanchard accepted the award for the company.