Tuesday, February 09, 2010Governor's Gourmet Gathering
Another successful event
SUCCESSFUL VISAR FUND RAISER AND NEW VISAR BOAT
Lights, music, clinking glasses and elegantly dressed partygoers eager to sample
Cuisine from some of the islands' top chefs thronged the Governor's Gourmet Reception for VISAR Friday night (5th). The outdoor patio was lined with linen-covered tables, manned by chefs and their staff offering a taste of their restaurant's signature dishes representing elite dining establishments such as Peter Island, Little Dix Resort, Guana Island Resort and Brandywine Bay Restaurant
Rebecca Clarke, Executive Administrator for Virgin Island Search and Rescue (VISAR) was thrilled with the crowd and support for the BVI's officially recognized search and rescue at sea service. "We hold this event annually and the Governor serves as our Patron for VISAR. We added this gourmet touch just last year and it has been a real hit."
Guests went from table to table pausing only to praise the artfully prepared dishes such as Caribbean crusted petite tender slices with mango jelly, curried duck, lightly battered jumbo shrimp sticks with chili sauce, and an array of tempting homemade desserts from the Tamarind Club. Chef Jon Albright and the HLSCC Culinary team were also represented as well as Sushi Nancy from the RBVI Yacht Club and the recently opened Brisanis restaurant at Prospect Reef. Scott Hart of the Dove Restaurant focused on signature drinks that have made his night spot a happy hour gathering place. Music by locally known Pop and Gospel singer Ouida, enhanced the evening and was followed by a Silent Auction that raised additional funds for VISAR.
"Between the ticket sales and auction we raised close to $20,000 for VISAR," Mrs.
Clarke reported.
However, the surprise of the evening was for the Virgin Gorda VISAR team, who arrived to find that the long-awaited new boat, Gorda Peak IV had finally been delivered. Lars Giersing, Crew Chief of the Virgin Gorda team was particularly happy. "We have always received the hand- me- down boat. This is the first time we have gotten a brand new purpose built 28 foot rescue rib." The rib is outfitted with state of the art electronics and is powered by twin 225 Yamaha engines. The Virgin Gorda VISAR team covers an area that encompasses Cooper Island north to Anegada. "The larger size and power of this rib will enable us to cover a much wider range more efficiently." Lars explained.
Article written for VISAR by Jane Bakewell