2nd Annual Multicultural Auto Show Gala Jan. 11 in Detroit to Raise Awareness of New York Based Asian American Federation/Rainbow Push Coalition

DETROIT, Jan. 10 -- Nearly 600 Asian or Asian Americans perished during the September 11 devastating event in New York City, according to Cao K. O., executive director, Asian American Federation of New York.

The 2nd Annual Multicultural Auto Show Gala will raise awareness of the Federation during its January 11 Heritage black tie affair, which will be held immediately following the North American International Auto Show event at 9 p.m. at the Masonic Temple, 500 Temple Avenue in Detroit. The event is sponsored by A. Miller Group, Inc., General Motors Corporation, GMAC Financial Services, DaimlerChrysler and Kmart Corporation.

``We decided to use the Gala to assist in raising awareness of the Federation because their immediate task requires our help,'' said Alan Miller, CEO-President, A. Miller Group, Inc. ``We all need to extend a helping hand and provide viable resources to this worthy organization.''

``Children and the elderly, especially those closest to Ground Zero, are in the greatest need,'' said O. ``Victims' families require culturally sensitive counseling and need help navigating the labyrinth of relief and services.''

In addition to providing an avenue for multicultural suppliers to network, the event also recognizes individuals who are doing positive things within the community. Awards will be bestowed on the following: Edith Young (Spirit of Diversity), Steve Silverman, Esq. (Multicultural Humanitarian), Delores Sanchez (Pioneer), Event Solutions International (Supplier Mentor) and Glenda Gill (Helping Hand).

The invited special guest is Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., Founder, Rainbow PUSH Coalition. Confirmed VIPs include Rod Gillum, Vice President Corporate Relations and Diversity, General Motors Corporation; James E. Farmer, Vice President, Merchandising, Advertising and Communications, GMAC Financial Services; Cao K. O., executive director, Asian American Federation of New York; Randy Allen, Chief Diversity Officer, Kmart Corporation; and Rev. Lawrence Foster, President of Michigan Progressive Baptist Convention. Rev. Foster, who serves as the Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, will present the Business Owners Prayer Blessing for 2002.

Several Detroit area artists will display their original artwork. Those who visit the display will have a chance to win a limited edition work by ``Daibo,'' provided by Johnnie Washington of Hi-Line Gallery, which is located in Northland Mall.

Last year, more than 200 people attended the 1st Annual event that honored the North American Indian Association with the Multicultural Humanitarian Award and Michigan National Bank's Branch Manager Wendy A. Miller and Finance Service Representative Patrice Spencer with the Helping Hand Award.

The Annual Multicultural Auto Show Gala event is an interactive community initiative developed by A. Miller Group, Inc. of Sterling Heights, Mich. in association with the Rainbow PUSH Automotive Project. The media partners include African American on Wheels and Latino on Wheels.

Tickets for the gala are $100 per couple and $50 per person. For more information, please contact Ms. Elisa Miller at 810-446-7947.