March "Thanks for the Memories" Adolphus Hotel Promotion Winner
APR 10, 2007
Congratulations to Dr. Ronald Cole and Ms. Linda Dax. You entry was our March winner. You are now in the running for the $25,000 Luxury Getaway!
March 10, 2007
Dear Adolphus,
There are rare places in our world where you can combine two great pleasures in life. The first is a true epicurean masterpiece and the second is to be made to feel like royalty. The entire attentive, professional and personable staff at The French Room skillfully and flawlessly interweaves these together to create a one of a kind worldly escape from my many daily challenges. The intimate atmosphere is achieved with the glow of candlelight and European décor in the soft blue room. I am both relaxed and filled with anticipation when entering the room with its signature heavenly ceiling, adorned with celestial figures. With extensive knowledge of fine cuisine, the waiters describe the dishes with passionate exuberance. Our table is reset after ordering with Martha Stewart perfection. The many rewards for a seven-hour drive from Kingsville, Texas are always worth the effort.
When I decided to propose to Linda two years ago, the Adolphus Hotel French Room was my ultimate choice. Only there could all the important factors representing romance, sophistication, fun, family and serious commitment come together on New Year’s Eve. The theme of my loving endeavor was based on a common cliché that Linda’s best friend made about me. “Why should he buy the cow when he can get the milk for free?”
I started by enlisting the help of several of The French Room staff. I spoke with Lacy who was excited, supportive and eagerly assured me the entire staff's cooperation. Then I contacted a friend who owns a ranch with a friendly, gentle cow. We took several symbolic photos with the cow, including my proposal pose and one with a large “sold” sign indicating commitment. Conspiring with Carlos and Jim at the French Room, the plan was to place the photos on a tray with a card that said “Linda will you marry me?” surrounding the ring box as dessert was served. My son and his wife from Florida would be joining us and they are vegetarians; so my next call was to the head chef. He enthusiastically agreed to prepare a special meal, which my son later commented was the best vegetarian meal they had ever eaten.
Confident that all would go well with my pre-arranged plans for a marriage proposal, I armed my son with a video and digital camera. Arriving at the charming Adolphus Hotel, Phillip the doorman and the ever-witty Jim Donohue the maitre d’ greeted us with courtesy and familiarity. The evening progressed with magnificent food, drink, good humor and smiles of all those who attended our table. Finally the moment arrived and Carlos, in his usual dignified and sophisticated manner presented Linda with the domed “dessert” platter. Cameras flashed and tears rolled down her cheeks as Carlos unveiled the loving treasures. She said “yes” as I slipped the uniquely made diamond ring on her left ring finger.
Seeking life’s best offerings, we have and will return for many added cherished memories.
With sincere appreciation,
Ronald L. Cole, MD
Linda M. Dax