May Bowle 2000 Comes to Saint John's University

' May Bowle 2000 will be held at Saint John's University on May 6. The event, which rotates each year to the College of Saint Benedict, Saint John's University and St. Cloud State University, is a St. Cloud area tradition where the three colleges welcome guests to celebrate spring, make connections with others and contribute to a good cause. It also celebrates the institutions' contributions to the economic and cultural development of the community.

"This event truly brings together community members for one evening a year to celebrate the impact the three colleges have on this community," said Leigh Dillard, chair of the May Bowle 2000 Committee and an instructor of dance in the CSB/SJU Theater Department. "'Bistro on the Sag' will be the best atmosphere, cuisine and cause in St. Cloud that evening." Since the community gathered for the first May Bowle 35 years ago, nearly $1 million dollars has been raised for scholarships to help fine arts, music and theater students from the College of Saint Benedict, Saint John's University and St. Cloud State University. Scholarship recipients have gone on to become artists, teachers, entertainers, and business leaders.

This year's theme, "Bistro on the Sag" highlights the warm hospitality, charming atmosphere and distinctive cuisine guests might find when visiting a bistro café. " It's a natural for Saint John's University to create this environment especially since, for the first time in several years, May Bowle will be held in the heart of the unique campus in the Great Hall and Sexton Commons," noted Dillard. The evening agenda includes:

' Welcoming Wine Tasting ' 6 ' 7 p.m.

Sample impressive wine selections chosen for May Bowle at a pre-dinner wine tasting event and educate your palate amidst friends, live music and artwork in the Sexton Dining Room.

' Bistro Cuisine Dinner ' 7:00 ' 8:30 p.m.

Relish bistro cuisine made in the same ovens used to bake the famous Saint John's Bread. The menu has been chosen specifically for this unique dining experience, authentically prepared and served with select wines. This one-seating, plate-service dining experience is more than just "eating out." It's an occasion to relax and enjoy a wonderful restaurant experience in a place that will enchant guests ' Saint John's beautiful Great Hall.

' Exquisite Dessert Bar and Café Entertainment ' 8:30 ' 11:30 p.m.

Linger in the after-dinner café setting at Sexton Commons for plate-served and finger-food desserts that will satisfy the guest's taste and desire. Specialty coffees will complement the after-dinner treats.

Dance to the delightful music of Café Accordion Orchestra, which will entwine guests with tangos, waltzes and ballads and complete a wonderful evening at the "Bistro on the Sag." Refreshments will be served after-dinner at Br. Willie's Pub offering more wine, beer, a full complement of cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages ' the perfect setting for dancing and the constant hum of conversation.

All of these venues will fulfill the senses and delight those who attend ' the quintessential quality of a bistro. Those interested in attending are encouraged to purchase tickets early. Due to space limitations, only the first 500 guests will be accommodated. For more information or to inquire about purchasing tickets, contact Saint John's Institutional Marketing Communications at (320) 363-2594.