The October evening concludes with a loud, festive, Motown-themed reception on the riverfront, the first event at the new Robert C. Valade Park. And Adrian Tonon, true to his reputation, seems to be everywhere at once: a firm handshake here, an arm around the shoulder there, an intimate conversation, a whispered aside.

When someone mentions the soirée was organized by Tonon, Detroit’s first 24-hour economy ambassador, Harry LaRosiliere, mayor of Plano, Texas, is instantly intrigued. “Can you point him out to me, please?” the mayor asks. “I’ve never heard of anyone with a title like that before.”