Welcome home!
Published:Sunday | September 2, 2012 | 12:00 AM
Barbara Ellington, Public Affairs Editor
Proprietors of the fabulous Grog Shoppe hosted a welcome-home, congratulatory reception in honour of Audrey Marks, Jamaica's former ambassador to the United States on Thursday, August 23. Gloria Palomino and Tino Caldarelli, long-time friends of Marks, had put on the party to send her off to Washington, DC, some three years ago, and thought it only fitting to fête her upon her return.
What made the occasion extra special was that Marks had two weeks ago been conferred with the Doctor of Public Service (honoris causa) by the Northern Caribbean University at its main campus in Mandeville, Manchester.
In her words of welcome, Palomino thanked Marks for the work she did on behalf of the country and said she was looking forward to her continued contribution to the business landscape of Jamaica. Not a night for long speeches, Marks thanked her husband, Jassel Dunstan, family and friends for their support during her tenure. She singled out special persons who she said had been "valuable resource personnel for me". She said the experience had been worthwhile both at the embassy, consulate and the Organisation of American States, and something that she would always treasure.
Chef Caldarelli and his team prepared a scrumptious array of five different finger foods, namely delicious smoked marlin and callaloo rolls, vegetable spring rolls with sweet and sour sauce, jerk sausages kebab, chicken tenders with honey mustard dip and skewers of fresh tropical fruits.
Caldarelli told Outlook that Grog Shoppe provides quite a large selection of hors d'oeuvres, but those were chosen because they suited everybody, including vegetarians. "We do not rent out the premises but we can cater to small, medium and large functions and seat up to 200 guests comfortably," he said. Set in the beautiful and historic Devon House, the dining room can accommodate 60 persons in a more formal setting, perfect for any social occasion. Waiters gave excellent service.
For more information visit: grogshoppejm.com, or email info@grogshoppejm.com.
Drinks for the night's festivities were provided by J.W. & Nephew Limited under the watchful supervision of Brand Manager Chesna Haber and the team of knowledgeable bartenders.
A wide array of mixes were enjoyed. They were concocted using some of the popular labels, including Absolut vodka, Chivas Regal, Glenlivet, Jameson, Beefeater, Malibu Kahlua Sandeman and Blackwell rum. Those who preferred, enjoyed chilled glasses of white and red wine.
Meanwhile, setting the tone for the night, Leslie Sherman of Musical Credits served up a wonderful selection of items from all genres, earning her many appreciative nods from the guests.