Dallas Gives Key to the City to KISS Co-Founder Gene Simmons

Let's face it. Everyone in the civilized world knows who KISS is. Even if they've never heard one note of any of the songs they KNOW who KISS is. Chances are if you were to walk up to any stranger of any age in the grocery store and just politely asked them "Do you know who the rock band KISS is?" they would answer some thing of the nature of "That's the band with the guy with face paint and a long tongue that sticks it out all the time." For good or bad (to some), the first image that comes into their head as soon as the name KISS is mentioned is that of the onstage Demon persona of bassist and vocalist Gene Simmons. Onstage, the legendary rocker is all about spitting blood, breathing fire, and flying into the rafters onto his throne like a dragon or vampire. These days, however, the unmasked icon has also become know as a humanitarian and friend to the United States military. Simmons and his "happily unmarried" partner, Shannon Tweed, truly have used their "power for good" as many a comic book writer or fan would put it.

I found out rather late on Friday morning that Mr. Simmons would be receiving the Key to the City of Dallas, TX in a ceremony that afternoon. Being the persistent reporter that I am (okay - and monstrously huge KISS fan), I immediately called up Dallas City Hall and pushed my way through the channels to find out when, where, and how I could be present at this honorary event. Apparently, I was sent a press release about the event but didn't notice it attached to my e-mail. I would like to make a side-note that every person I talked to in a position of power at Dallas City Hall was genuinely friendly and very helpful. I was told that it would be at 4PM in the Flag Room and to come on in and cover it. I was on my way!

The Flag Room of Dallas City Hall was an intimate room on the 6^th floor whose name reflected the line of different flags across the back wall directly behind the speaker's podium. The room could hold maybe 160 people at most. My son and I arrived in time to grab two seats about 10 feet in front of the podium. Soon, the room started to fill up with KISS fans wearing the bands t-shirts and sweatshirts holding memorabilia for Mr. Simmons to sign if they were lucky enough to get it in front of him.. The TV stations had all their gear set up against the wall. Then the State Councilmen, officers, and other politicians started to file in. A lot of their employees came bearing cameras and cell phones to take pictures with. I also happened to look up at one point and notice that there was a sort of half balcony above the Flag Room floor which was lined with even more people.

When walking in, the room exploded in cheers as Gene Simmons waved at everyone yelling, "Hi everybody!" Surprising to me, his girlfriend / partner Shannon Tweed was accompanying him. She pointed up to the balcony and Gene looked up and took his sunglasses off revealing a very surprised face that so many people were there. The couple were accompanied and surrounded by Council member Steve Salazar; state Rep. Roberto Alonzo, D-Dallas; and several other council members. A short speech was given recognizing Mr. Simmons and Ms. Tweed for all their charity efforts for the Wounded Warriors Project, which is a nonprofit that raises money for injured soldiers, and the USO. After that, Gene and Shannon took the microphone and shared from their hearts the importance of supporting our U.S. troops and taking care of them when they come home. Mr. Simmons got tearful at one point and Ms. Tweed took over for him.

After their speech, Gene was presented the Key to the City by Council member Salazar. He appeared to be very honored and thankful. Mr. Simmons was also made an honorary citizen of Dallas, TX to his surprise. That wasn't all, though. He was also presented with a street sign that read "Gene Simmons Blvd." for his use at his Super Bowl celebration party for Aces and Angels Salute to the Troops at Fair Park on Wednesday. Shannon also received a bouquet of roses and a Texas-shaped vase that Council member Salazar said he wanted to see displayed somewhere in the house where viewers could see it on the couples' "Family Jewels" show. Lastly, Simmons was given a Texas flag and presented with an award directly from the military. I could really see Gene's humbleness and shock as awards kept getting passed to him.

As the awards ceremony came to a close, Gene let the crowd approach him and get autographs and pictures with him. He was so very nice to his fans and signed pretty much everything that was put in front of him. My son got a picture with him signing his shirt and Mr. Simmons told him something of the nature of "You might be on TV. You're the only kid here that I'm signing a shirt for." I believe he was referring to the fact that there was a cameraman from the "Gene Simmons Family Jewels" show there shooting the ceremony. I met Gene briefly and, of course, had my picture taken with him. He was extremely polite and a true gentleman.

This event really showed fans and other attendees that Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed aren't just another powerhouse couple that only worry about themselves. These are two individuals who truly believe in the cause of the Wounded Warriors Project. They truly are trying to make a difference in the lives of our veterans and U.S. troops.

If you're interested in attending the Super Bowl XLV fundraiser party, Aces and Angels Salute to the Troops, Wednesday night at Fair Park in Dallas, TX, then visit the official website here for more information.

You can check out pictures from the ceremony right here.

You can also check out video from the ceremony right here.