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Suiting Warriors postpones fundraiser, forced to move

William H. McMichael
The News Journal

Suiting Warriors is in a bind. A big one.

The Wilmington organization, which puts veterans looking for post-military employment in proper business attire at no charge, has canceled its "Reds, Whites and Brews" fundraiser scheduled for tonight in Wilmington due to what founder and CEO Star Lotta calls "an influx of unexpected events." Foremost among those, she said, is unexpectedly being forced to move from its Talleyville location.

Star Lotta, founder of Suiting Warriors, helps fit Army veteran Joseph Taylor, 58, with a new suit, March 12, 2014.

"Our main donation office has been donated to us for the last two years and we appreciate the support of the current donor," Lotta said in a statement posted on her group's Facebook page. "However, we have been informed that we must move from this location as soon as possible, as a new renter will be occupying the entire building."

Job No. 1, then, is figuring out where to permanently move, and moving the 2,000 men's and women's garments now hanging up to another location - forcing the fundraiser to the back burner.

"We appreciate everyone's support that has participated in making this years RWB Gala a success," Lotta said. "I apologize for any inconveniences this decision has caused. However, the current situation to relocate needs our complete attention. We will keep you up to date on our movement as we make progress, including when a fundraiser will be re-established."

The gala was to have been held at Harry's Savoy Grill Ballroom on Naamans Road in Wilmington. Those who purchased tickets electronically are getting their credit cards reimbursed, she said.

Lotta's most pressing need is some help moving all those suits, as well as office furniture, to another location for storage. The move will take place Saturday, she said. To help, send a note to info@suitingwarriors.org.

Interested donors, she said, can help at the Donate link on the group's web page: www.suitingwarriors.org.

Contact William H. McMichael at (302) 324-2812 or bmcmichael@delawareonline.com. On Twitter: @billmcmichael