BY KATHY KANE

trentontrib.com

     Detroit is making a comeback and party planners for the Trenton Rotary are ready to celebrate that excitement in the Downriver area, too.

     That’s why organizers of Trenton Rotary’s “D in Downriver” event expect at least 400 area residents to take advantage of the opportunity for a “D-licious” new event and help ensure that Rotary raises enough money to fund its charitable projects in the coming year.

     The very first D in Downriver debut event is set to get under way at 6 p.m. March 5 at Crystal Garden in Southgate.

     The club had organized the Winter Beach Blast for the last eight years and decided it was time for a change.

     “We plan to take all the good things happening in Detroit and feature them here, hoping that previous guests will enjoy the fresh ideas and fun we have in store for them,”  said Kim Mott, who is serving as event chairman.

     There are plans for some super cool Detroit food tastings, along with an open bar, Detroit-themed auction items and plenty of interactive activities throughout the night to make attendees feel like they are in the heart of the city, right here in Southgate.

     “This year’s event will feature the Detroit native sounds of Saints of Souls,” Mott said. “Not only do they entertain with all the best Motown hits, they will belt out some rhythm and blues, top hits, oldies and more!” The entertainment sponsor is Jackson, Snider and Parker DDS.  

     Mott also noted that many people who have attended prior Rotary events have used the event as a very practical venue for a company party or an opportunity to entertain their family, friends and clients.

     Ticket pricing includes a quantity discount for those who really want to make it a “party.” One to nine tickets are $45 each in advance; 10-19 tickets are $40 each, making this a very affordable value for an evening.

     This “D”-lightful event will also offer a full range of reasonably priced sponsorship opportunities that provide valuable local exposure both on-site and through event promotion and marketing efforts. The sponsorship levels were created with the Detroit theme in mind as well. The sponsorship form can be viewed and downloaded online at www.trentonrotary.net.  

     The event also will feature silent and “super mega” silent auctions throughout the evening, as well as a variety of prize drawings. The list of auction items will range from themed gift baskets to Detroit getaways and vacations, plus a few unique surprise offerings.

     Trenton Rotary supports more than 50 different charities or events each year by its donations and volunteer efforts. Proceeds from last year’s Winter Beach Blast aided a number of causes, including providing funds to support programs for ChristNet, Penrickton Center for Blind Children, the Trenton Food Pantry, a dental clinic and medical clinic in Nicaragua, and Trenton High School’s Victory Day, to name just a few.

     More info about Trenton Rotary is available at www.trentonrotary.net.