The 42nd Microsoft store opened at Somerset Collection in Troy, Michigan. The grand opening event was a blast for Microsoft fans, press and patrons. Microsoft hosted a free Kelly Clarkson concert for patrons who were lined up the day before and camped overnight. Some of the anxious patrons arrived 16 hours before the ribbon cutting. The excitement was contagious as the bass in the music and excited fans filled the mall. The energy remained after the curtain fell as Microsoft had new products, grants and scholarship giveaways. When Microsoft CEO and metro Detroit native Steve Ballmer took the stage and began addressing the crowd, you could feel the anticipation steadily rising. When the native son began the countdown the crowd joined in making the moments leading to the unveiling electric. Five, four, three, two, one… down the curtain fell.
Children and adults sampled and purchased new products. Screams of excitement and the music reached higher heights as the store continued to fill with Microsoft fans. You could no longer hear the people next to you but you didn’t care because you were one of the first to step foot into the new Microsoft store and possibly to see a free concert performed by an “American Idol” favorite. As people received their tickets and burrowed through the store, some cried others danced. The overall feeling was one of excitement and joy. There’s a new store on the block in metro Detroit. –dorian imani
