Bethlehem Lutheran Church

The 2009 Bridge Builder Dinner was held at the Marriott Southwest Hotel in Minnetonka. There were 160 attendees, the largest ever in the 29-year tradition of Bridge Builder Dinners. This is the only formal meeting of the Bridge Builders each year, and its intent is to provide information about the activities of the Bethlehem Foundation as well as fellowship among its members.

The evening began at 6 p.m. with a social hour. As the dining room opened - and throughout the dinner hour, the Augsburg Suzuki String Ensemble performed for the group.

At 7:35 p.m., the program began with reports of financial and programmatic performance. The new Kids' Choice Fund was announced, and the members of the Kids' Choice Grant Team were introduced.

The keynote speaker was Richard Davis, President, Chair and CEO of U.S. Bancorp. Mr. Davis, a member of Bethlehem Church, spoke on the importance of each person's sharing of their gifts - spiritual and financial -- in making a difference for others in our world.

Following the keynote address, the Corda Mor Irish Dancers performed a variety of Irish dances. The troupe, which numbers about 20 and is based in Edina, thrilled the audience by their artistry and energy.