September 10, 2006: Detroit Lakes Tribune- BY JACKIE JENSON
Grand Opening Gala and Benefit set for Sept. 14 at the Lodge on Lake Detroit
Second open house slated for Sun. Sept. 17
PHOTO BY JACKIE JENSON/TRIBUNE
September 17, 2006 Lodge open house guests admire the fireside lobby view from above.
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With sumptuous appetizers and entertainment abound, LOLA, The Lodge on Lake Detroit, is putting on the Ritz for a one-of-a-kind Grand Opening Gala event and fundraiser.
Slated for Thursday evening, September 14 from 5-8 p.m., the distinctive gathering will encompass everything from music by the Simon Rowe Trio to DNR tours of the Lodge's innovative rain gardens. The evening will also boast special wine tasting and an introduction to the recently completed Spa Within.
"We wanted to do something different," said The Lodge's Chris Holland Melhaff. "We had been planning a grand opening event for a while but wanted to get through the peak hotel season and jump into fall with it."
PHOTO BY JACKIE JENSON/TRIBUNE
Scott & Chris Mehlhaff present two $1,000 checks, one each, to the Historic Holmes Theatre, and to the Becker County Historical Society from funds raised at the Grand Opening Gala & benefit. |
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The Grand Opening Gala and Benefit will also have a number of door prizes to give away such as bottles of wine, LOLA's distinctive pillows and plush spa robes.
"There will be a chance to sign up for door prizes in each room and once your passport is filled, that too can be entered for the grand prize - a special complimentary renewal suite package," added Melhaff.
In addition to the live entertainment, great eats and spa tours, moneys raised at the gala will be used to benefit two community organizations: the Historic Holmes Theatre and Becker County Historical Society.
To help garner funds for the benefit, there will be a suggested $20 per person donation at the door, noted Melhaff.
"We always wanted to be able to do a benefit like this and raise money for the Historic Holmes Theatre and Becker County Historical Society," she explained, with each organization reflecting the owner/operator's passions.
"One mirrors our passion for the music and the arts, things that enrich the community as a whole: the other our dedication to preserve the history of the community. My family has been in town for so many generations that it is fun to see old photos of where the town has been and dream where it will be going," continued Melhaff.
With those passions in mind, The Lodge on Lake Detroit incorporates local historical photographs, a grand piano in their lobby and artwork by regional artists in every guest room at their new lifestyle hotel destination.
"The Becker County Historical Society helped us find many of the great old photographs that we have displayed at the Lodge and with connections to music, they seemed like two perfect organizations for which to hold a benefit."
Melhaff added The Spa Within officially wrapped up construction and would also be offering exclusive specials during the grand opening gathering with special Spa Gift Cards and future appointment booking discounts available from 5-8 pm during the gala.
"We wanted to let people tour our new Spa which is now open and not just for guests. It is a place for everyone, guests and residents alike. We have a staff of 13 now and are offering some great deals during the gala."
The Lodge will also be unveiling a variety of new programs and events at the local destination resort such as:
- Live at the Lodge: various special live music performances at the Lodge.
- Spa Wellness and Business Rewards: geared for individuals and businesses to acquire spa points to earn spa rewards.
- Sunday/Monday Football: Watch the game on a 60" screen in their meeting room.
- Gourmet Dinner and Wine Tasting: 5-course diners with music on the side. 1st event set for Sat. Sept. 16.
"Our first Gourmet Dinner and Wine Tasting event will be held during our grand opening weekend as well," explained Melhaff. "We will have a strolling violinist and a fantastic menu courtesy Jim our culinary experience director."
Limited to 35, Melhaff noted a few seats were remaining for the deinnerfest: Call the Lodge at847-8439 to reserve space.
In addition to the Gala Benefit, The Lodge is also holding a special Open House on Sunday, Sept. 17 from 1-4 p.m.
"We wanted to have two events so as not to exclude anyone who didn't want to attend the benefit," explained Melhaff. "Sunday's open house will be less formal but we still have great appetizers, property tours and music from pianist Carol Lebedore-Johnson."
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