Who: Young professionals, Mad Men look-a-likes, classic car lovers, and friends of Hammer Residences, Inc.
What: Reach For Ralph
Where: BMW of Minnetonka
When: July 21, 2011
Why: To raise funds for Hammer Residences, Inc. in support of adults and children with developmental disabilities.

Cat-eye liner, felt fedoras, and plenty of go-go paisley print! This year’s Reach for Ralph: A Vintage Evening of Culture, Cars and Cocktails highlighted the “carpe diem” attitude of the 60s, as it focused on the importance of providing adults and children with developmental disabilities the opportunity to live life to the fullest. Hosted by BMW of Minnetonka, the event raised more than $96,000 for Hammer Residences, Inc.

Who: Vikings players and their families, football followers, and NFL bigwigs
What: The Minnesota Vikings Taste of the NFL event
Where: Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America
When: Monday, October 4
Why: Who wouldn’t want to munch on a delicious dinner, served by a studly Viking, all in support of a good cause?

I am a Green Bay Packers fan. I always have, and I always will be. I never thought the Minnesota Vikings could impress me—but I was wrong. On Monday night I headed to the Vikings Taste of the NFL event at the Mall of America. The event, which partnered with Second Harvest Heartland, benefited the efforts of the Viking’s Children’s Fun Summer Lunch Program, which provides meals to children in need. I entered the event ready to mix and mingle with my enemies, and I left with a newfound appreciation for some major do-gooders in the community.

Who: Head coaches, Golden Gopher committee members, and U of M friends ready to support student-athlete scholarships 

What: The University of Minnesota Golden Gopher Fund’s Annual Wine Dinner
When: Monday, September 20 

Where: Calhoun Beach Club
Why: We love sports, so we wanted to rub shoulders with big-time supporters of student athletes

It’s hard not to love the Gophers. Everything about each maroon and gold team screams quintessential colleges sports. Students rally around the players, while Goldy leads cheers and chants that encourage each squad toward victory. Ask any Gopher athlete, and they’ll likely say the best thing about playing for the U of M is the fans. The steadfast support that Minnesotans shower over student athletes is infinite. And this Monday evening was no exception.

Who: Esera Tuaolo, Bitch Flowers, and Seven patrons
What: A Hawaiian-inspired luau on a lazy summer evening
When: August 9. 2009
Where: Seven's rooftop Skybar
Why: To celebrate the Aloha spirit in downtown Minneapolis

Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places on earth. It just feels good being there, surrounded by flowers, the ocean, the mountains, and it's impossible not to soak up the positive, low key vibe that permeates the salty, sultry air. On Sunday, a little glimmer of Hawaii sprinkled downtown Minneapolis at the laid back luau at Seven's Skybar hosted big kahuna Esera Tuaulo, the former NFL player and now aspiring singer.