Master of Ceremonies for the fourth year in a row was Detroit Fox 2 News’ Huel Perkins, who demonstrated that his enthusiasm and flair extends far beyond the news desk. He spoke passionately about the Courageous Persuaders program, urging all attendees to encourage others to enter next year’s competition.

The show began with Michigan Superintendent of Education, Tom Watkins, presenting international Mobius Awards for Excellence to Michael Yessian of Yessian Music, student producer Elaine Strutz of Dearborn High School, and Linda Thomas Brooks, president of the AdCraft Club of Detroit. He presented another Mobius for integrated communications to Jim Haefner Photography, accepted by Kent Lund.

Earlier in the year, New York Festivals awarded their highest honor to the Courageous Persuaders concept. Mr. Watkins presented a New York Festivals Gold Award to Dr. Larry Boehms, principal of Troy High School and the students from Troy High School who won last year's Grand Prize for their commercial; Emily Badhorn, James Berg, Robin Geggie and Sandra Matty.

Tom Watkins surprised even the host when he presented a special commendation letter from Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm to the Detroit Fox 2 News team who have played a very important role in making Courageous Persuaders a success from the beginning: FOX 2 general manager Jeff Murri, FOX 2 News Anchors Huel Perkins and Fanchon Stinger, and the FOX 2 community service director, Katie Fehr.