Regardless of his "checkered past" his presence definitely gave the event an air of celebrity that it just wouldn't have if he hadn't been there.
It was really cool having a local legend at an event celebrating the local arts. Whether he was there for just that, or simply to support a relative or someone in his social circle, it lended the event some credibility.
Which it desperately needed. The evening was nothing but technical difficulties, staff meltdowns, and half assed attempts to solve the many mini crises that were collectively making the night overall pretty bunk.
You'd think this being the first awards ceremony since COVID they would've had their **** more figured out heading into such a prestigious (locally) event...
Which is why it was cool to see the Jet there and meet him/get a photo. Made the wonky evening totally worth it!
My band didn't win either of the two awards we were nominated for. But I came away feeling like a winner nevertheless!
A few years ago, I accompanied my wife to Allen's in Hastings & Johnny, The Jet, graciously signed a mural that was going up for a charity auction! He was very nice, and happy to do it! As I'm older now, I sometimes know people, even public people can have bad days! When I have a bad day, I ask myself, are you hungry, thirsty, tired, or drop an anvil on big toe!

I've always wondered as the trouble with punt returns, Scott, how come no Johnny running a clinic at Memorial Stadium?? Haha