Adele Arakawa Emcees for 14th Year

Adele Arakawa, news anchor with Denver Channel 9News (KUSA-TV), will mark her fourteenth year of service as the Mistress of Ceremonies at the 2010 Brown Robe Benefit. Everyone involved in the event is thrilled to have Adele as part of the team. The benefit will be held at the Grand Hyatt Denver on Friday, October 1. Make your reservations early and join Adele, the Capuchin friars, and scores of their friends for this year's Brown Robe Benefit. It is going to be a wonderful evening.

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2009 Raffle: Rome Extravaganza!

We are thrilled to announce our 2009 raffle,

The Rome Extravaganza!

Sponsored by the Cherry Creek Jaycees

Our 2009 Grand Prize raffle package includes:

• Roundtrip airfare for (6) adults to Rome, Italy.
• One week stay for (6) in the luxurious 2500 s.f. Papal Suites at Navona Garden Suites Luxury Guest House located in heart of the Eternal City. This spectacular suite, a leisurely stroll from St. Peter's, was once the residence of Cardinal Felice Peretti, who later became Pope Sixtus V in 1585. The suite offers: 3 master bedrooms, each with its own private en suite, spectacular living area and the luxury of a private chef who will come to the suite every morning to prepare a special buffet breakfast, (click here for a preview of what you can win).
• Transfer service to and from the airport in Rome to the Suite.

Estimated Value: $17,000!

Buy your tickets TODAY for the chance to win the trip of a lifetime! Tickets are only $50/each and are available by contacting Gina Francis at 303.433.0296 ext. 105. Don't delay, only 1000 tickets will be sold for this rare opportunity! Viva Rome!

Download Your Entry Form Now

The Brown Robe Benefit Committee would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to our long-time friends and supporters: Dennis Winter & Loredana Carnovale for making this prize package possible. The committee encourages you to patronize the sponsors who support the Capuchins! In addition to the luxurious Papal Suite, Dennis and Loredana have a variety of accommodations available for rent in Rome and would welcome the opportunity to meet other friends of the friars! You can visit them online at www.navonagardensuites.com.

*No cash value. Prize winnings subject to availability and terms of use.

A maximum of 1000 tickets will be sold.

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Caution, Stones Still Rolling In

Two more garden stones decorated by the friars have arrived. There are now about a dozen of them ready to do your bidding, after you've done your bidding. The sad-eyed bug covered with tau crosses is one of Brother Charles Polifka's submissions; and the stone with "Logo Friar" on it, the work (perhaps still in progress) of Brother Magnum Mysterium.

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On the High Road for Six to Eight People

Life is a Highway: Enjoy travelling in sheer luxury! RV America has donated one week use of C-Class 31' RV—comfortably sleeps 6-8 guests. Included in this package is 1,000 miles free of charge. Gas not included. (Value $2,000).

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Grbich Ciclee Reproduction Print Offered—#5 of 6

“Babe Ruth” by Eric Grbich 25" x 38" Ciclee reproduction print. #5 of 6 retail value $1,250.00

George Herman “Babe” Ruth (1895-1948) was the world's first sports superstar. He pitched for the Red Sox on championship teams in 1915 and 1916, but was such a good hitter that he was switched to the out-field so that he could play every day. Ruth led the Yankees to seven American League championships and four World Series titles. He led the league in home runs many times, and the 60 he hit in 1927 set a record for the 154-game season. (Roger Maris hit 61 home runs in a 162-game season in 1961.) Ruth's lifetime total of 714 home runs is second only to the 755 hit by Hank Aaron (1934–). With a .342 lifetime batting average for 22 seasons of play, many consider Babe Ruth the game's greatest player.

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Unique Sculpture of Inspiring Peacemaker Offered

“Gandhi”

25" multimedia clay scupture by Joe Birge.

Mohandas “Mohatma” Gandhi (1869-1948) was a holy man who led India to independence. He showed the world how to achieve political change by means of nonviolent—but active—civil protest. His method of peaceful protest is increasingly relevant in today's world. This offering includes a biography by Gerald Gold, featuring more than 150 historic photographs selected by Sir Richard Attenboro.

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Fr. Charles Polifka's Bread of the Month

This priceless gift will bring the warmth of home, and the hospitality of the friars to your doorstep with a monthly homemade loaf of bread from the provincial minister, Fr. Charles Polifka, O.F.M.Cap. Your can see how he puts himself into each loaf. The lucky bidder will have a loaf delivered or mailed each month. As the months of the years vary, so do the loaves of bread; but each will bring the special touch of the friars to your table.

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2009 Presenting Sponsor: Martin Family Foundation

It is our privilege and honor to announce the Martin Family Foundation as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2009 Brown Robe Benefit. "Our gratitude to John and Mari Ann of the Martin Family Foundation runs deep. Their personal commitment to the Capuchins gives witness to many others who seek to live the Gospel by sharing their blessings with other. Our lives and ministries have been enriched by our friendship with John and Mari Ann," said Stephanie Pedersen, Director of Development, of the Capuchin friars of Mid-America.

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This Original Piece Can Be Yours!

Looking for that perfect stone to compliment your garden? Consider this beautiful 3-piece marble stone, conceived and designed by Bro. Felix containing the blessing of St. Francis.

Capuchin created garden stones such as this one, will be featured at our silent auction at the Brown Robe Benefit. This original masterpiece and others like it, will go home to the highest bidder on October 23rd! Will it be yours?

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A Sponsor's Refelction

When I recently asked Michelle Fisher, a long-time friend and supporter of the Capuchins friars, to describe the spirit of what keeps her so committed to the ministries of these men, she shared the following: "How can one not support the work of these men, who are truly following in the footsteps of Francis of Assisi?" I believe the Capuchins are indeed instruments of peace. They spread love, teach forgiveness, give faith and hope, and help so many see the light of truth, as they model the joy in serving in the name of God."

We are honored to have Michelle and Rollie Fisher as Partner Sponsors of our 2009 Brown Robe Benefit. Monies raised from this event go directly to support the lives and ministries of the Capuchin friars of the Mid-American Province. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, please visit the sponsor tab on our website: www.brownrobe.org.

We'd also love to hear about your reflections, stories, and experiences with the Capuchins. Join us on our blog, it's easy, just follow the prompts on the top of this blog or email us at: events@capuchins.org. We look forward to hearing from you!

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Br. Duane's Stones, A Tribute to St. Francis

This years' friar project, garden stones, adorned with meaningful messages and designs, are sure to be a huge hit at the 2009 Benefit! Here is small sample of some of priceless work that will be awarded to the highest bidder on October 23rd. The stones on the left were conceived and designed by Fr. Duane Reinert, O.F.M, Cap. Father Duane explains the significance behind his stone above: St. Francis, a man who radiated the peace of Christ, concluded his blessing for Brother Leo with, "may He turn His countenance to you and give you peace."

This floral stone holds meaning that transcends the beauty of our own gardens, and calls to mind the importance of being open to God's great plans in the landscape of our life. St. Francis of Assisi "used to tell the brother who took care of the garden...leave a pice of ground that would produce wild plants that in their season would produce "Brother Flowers," (Assisi Compilation, 88). Don't miss the chance to enhance your garden with these meaningful and timeless accents!

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Newest Sponsors of the 2009 BRB

With less then 7 weeks before the big event, sponsors of the 2009 Brown Robe Benefit are rolling in. We are pleased to announce our most recent sponsors:

Mount Olivet Cemetery & Archdiocese of Denver Mortuary

Exempla St. Joseph's Hospital

Steelock Corporation

Rollie and Michelle Fisher Charitable Fund

For more information about sponsorship opportunities please visit the sponsor tab on our website or contact Gina at 303-433-0296 or via email: events@capuchins.org.

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First Table Sponsors Committed, More Expected

Our first table sponsors have started to trickle in. Included in the preliminary list are Church of the Risen Christ and Catholic Charities Denver! We are both humbled and grateful for their outward support! We look forward to growing this list throughout the coming weeks!

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Amber Ridge Vineyards 2009 Official Wine Sponsor

We are pleased to announce that Gene and Lorinda Corley of Amber Ridge Vineyards of Morrison have generously donated a variety of tantalizing complimentary wines to be served during the meal at the 2009 Brown Robe Benefit. We're thrilled to have Amber Ridge Vineyards on board as our official wine sponsor of the night! Here's to the Corleys!

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New Director Tells Ways To Be Part of Brown Robe

Gina Francis, new director of special events including the Brown Robe Benefit, asks, "Want to help, but not sure what to do?" She then answers her own question: = Volunteer: Be a part of the dynamic team bringing this magic event to life! From helping plan now to helping decorate in October, there's a place just right for you and your talents. Pick up the phone and call: 303.433.0296 events@capuchins.org = Donate: If you have an item you would like to donate to the auction, we'd love to have it. From gift certificates to restaurants, hair salons, spas and hotels, tickets to the theater or a local sporting event, to rustic or luxorious vacation get aways. Airline tickets and frequent flier miles can be applied towards the purchase of tickets. Every donation is valuable. = Sponsor: Sponsorship packages are available ranging from $1,500 to $15,000. They include tickets to the event and fabulous branding opportunities. = Tell a Friend: Help us share the heart of St. Francis of Assisi and introduce new families to the love and fellowship of the Capuchin friars. Invite a friend to join us at the Brown Robe Benefit and learn firsthand about the marvelous ministries of the Capuchin friars. See how the Holy Spirit uses them daily to bring hope, love, and peace to those in greatest need.

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Adele Arakawa Returns For Thirteenth Time As Emcee

Channel 9News (KUSA-TV) veteran anchor Adele Arakawa will be with be with the Capuchins friars and their friends at the Grand Hyatt Denver Friday, October 23, for the 2009 Brown Robe Benefit. It will be the thirteenth time she has served as Mistress of Ceremonies for the event. It is not too early for you to make your reservations also. Just 110 days to go. (Brown Robe Benefit File Photo).

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Bowlens to Serve Again as Honorary Chairpersons

Pat and Annabel Bowlen, owners of the Denver Broncos Organizaton, will serve again as honorary chairs for the 2009 Brown Robe Benefit. This will be the fourteenth consecutive year the couple have given their name and support to the gala charity auction (File photo from the 2005 Brown Robe).

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Friars' Garden Stone Projects Starting to Roll In

Various Capuchin friars will again provide "art projects" for the 2009 Brown Robe Benefit. This year's offerings will consist of garden stones friars have selected and decorated to their own tastes. The gold-toned stone at right, discovered along the road to Mother Cabrini Shrine southwest of Denver, was decorated by Bro. Blaine Burkey. In the lucky bidder's garden, CAPstone can bring varied thoughts to mind: "You are ... members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the Apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the capstone" (Eph. 2:20). The brown CAP might also remind the garden's visitors of the Brown Robes; and with a simple dot added, "stone" could become St. One, or holy one. Then on still another level, "capstone" could refer to the garden as "the finishing touch" or "a crowning achievement" (Merriam-Webster's 11th Collegiate). Happy bidding!

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"Save the Date" Oct. 23 for 16th Annual Brown Robe"

1,200 reminder post cards have already been mailed for the 16th annual Brown Robe Benefit. Information about plans for the event will continue to pour into this site, so visit the site often in the less than four months remaining till the grand event. Be sure to circle October 23 on your calendar and plan on joining us for an evening filled with fellowship, friendship, and inspiration! The Brown Robe Benefit 2009, it's going to be a beautiful night!

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