While still on vacation I had recieved an email from the lovely, Amy Starr, bartender extraordinaire at Fado Chicago. At her suggestion, Fado agreed to support the fundraising effort for the 2-10-2010 KIss My ALS Party; my 1st annual fundraiser! Her idea was to have a donation drive, similar to what they do for St. Baldrick’s in March…The staff “sells” donation cards to willing patrons , who then sign their name, or their pet’s name to a donation card that is displayed behind the bar. Thus promoting awareness and the event itself, which is happening a mere 2 blocks away at a different venue.

So I got my design wizard, Kirk Miller, to create these beautiful donation plaques, of a pair of big red lips with space for an autograph! We rushed the printing and BAM! On saturday they began offering the opportunity to KISS ALS GOODBYE to their customers. BRILLIANT! As I sat and watched they raised about $200 in 10 minutes…fantastic! I was so moved by their willingness to support Kiss my ALS, I had to leave lest I sit there blubbering in my Beer.

I truly appreciate the awareness and funds for research this donation drive will generate. In this way Fado offers more than a proper pint with a smile, they are offering their patrons the opportunity to make a difference, to participate in the community and to know themselves as a contribution.

I salute you Amy Starr and Fado Chicago! I especially thank the General Manager Craig, who I had never met before Saturday evening, for allowing this to happen. May your shining example be more contagious than the common cold, as inspiring as the best sermon and enjoyed by all participants with a proper pint!

I invite you all to stop into Fado and to put your Kiss on the wall!

Inspired by Fado’s actions several other neighborhood pubs are considering participating in a donation drive. I’ll keep you posted!