FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA

I recently visited Concordia College to observe their dining facility as a model for a high volume dining room for one of my clients. During this trip, I stopped by the Hotel Donaldson, a small, fun and funky place in the middle of Fargo, ND. They have amazing food and a great selection of wines, a cigar bar and even tubs in certain rooms that get filled from the ceiling. Even more interesting was an elongated garland of 800 bras hooked together. "Bras on Broadway" is a fund raising event for the American Cancer Society in which they collect bras from local women. $3500 was raised for breast cancer research. Donors gave $5 for each bra to support the cause. More information about the Donaldson Hotel in Fargo can be found here.

After Fargo I traveled to Plymouth Meeting, PA to participate in a different kind of fundraiser for the Silver Springs - Martin Luther School. Established in 1859 to provide services to orphaned children, Silver Springs works with young folks that are really truly in need of some help and gives them a chance to make a better life for themselves. The folks At Silver Springs are committed to providing a healing environment for children who suffer from past traumas or significant behavioral and/or mental health problems. Please take a look at their Web site to see the depth and reach of their programs.

The dinner for Silver Springs was highly successful. It didn't take much to warm this crowd up. They were warm and very lively. Lots and laughter ensued from the dinner talk; I really enjoyed being with them. I stayed after the talk for about an hour or two to sign books, and to share stories. Chef Joe, Pontillo and his crew at the Marriott did an exceptional job with both the reception and the dinner. Nothing but compliments and a big thank you for this crew.