One of the most coveted invitations in this town is one to attend a soiree at the home of music maestro Dr. Lorna Young-Wright. Those who are fortunate to be selected are always treated by a hostess who knows and understands the art of entertaining. In the past, Lorna showcased the skills of one of her UVI colleagues who played the sitar and that evening was entertaining and intriguing.
Last weekend, Lorna’s gathering was a celebration that was much closer to home. She celebrated the first-time visit of her younger brother, Lamont Young, and his wife, Montrose, who had come in from New Jersey. From the lively conversation it was clear that both Lamont and Montrose had fallen in love with the V.I. Among those who came to welcome the couple to St. Thomas were UVI math profs Douglas Iannucci and Mark Lawrence; recent stateside transplants, V.I. native Shane de Gannes with his wife, Asha, and their adorable daughter, Devin; Glenroy and Carol Warrington, Ian and Nora Williams, Linda Christian with her daughter, Quiana, who had just returned from her freshman year at college, Mary Edwards and Mary Alexander.
Ian’s tuna fish salad was declared a superior hit from the first bite by all who tasted and that was supported by the way it quickly disappeared. Alexander’s scrumptious banana caramel rum cake and Edwards’ chocolate brownies satisfied everybody’s sweet tooth. Edwards also treated us to some of her wonderful lyrical poetry which was an added bonus to the delightful afternoon.
Lorna has promised to host an evening where her guests get to share their poetry. She may even set some of them to original compositions. Hope I get invited to that gathering.
During the hot summer days, many folks reach for white clothing as it is said to keep our bodies cooler than colors. Well, that may be why White Parties seem to be all the rage in St. Thomas this summer. The Pure White Hennessy White Party was held recently at Yacht Haven Grande, and it was the event not to be missed – those in attendance will not soon forget it.
The moon was full but the klieg lights illumined the red carpet as guests, all elegantly dressed in white, of course, made their grand entrance for the evening’s gala in Hollywood style. Hundreds of people showed up for the occasion, a fundraiser for our University of the Virgin Islands. In keeping with making all who attended feel like celebrities, there were several stations set up for photo opportunities. The real celebrity element was provided by the presence of Kelita Smith, from the cast of “The Bernie Mac Show,” Jade Cole from “America’s Next Top Model” and DJ Spinderella of Salt N Pepa, who rocked the house alongside our very own Tony T from 105 JAMZ with new and old school jams, as tiny disco lights flickered. The music was smoking! Dazzling showgirls in silver Carnival headpieces added just the right spark to the electric ambiance while the Hugga Bunch dancers added just the right dash of color.
The drinks were free flowing and the delicious repast — which included seafood macaroni and cheese balls, risotto cakes, deviled eggs, white chocolate-dipped strawberries and bite sized Hennessey laced cupcakes and cheesecakes — was enjoyed by all who were there. Yummy!
Among those who were simply fabulous in white were Robert Chen, Noreen Michael, Lisa Wynne, Ernie Pennyfeather, Annie Smith, Karen Andrews, Lorraine Baa, Debra Pennington, Elynne Lockhart, Avis Blackman, Debra Stevens, Sean Georges, Curtis Gilpin, Lesean Moses, Russell Richardson, Mark Sabino, Avon Laurent, Giovanni Rochester, Euthanie Lawrence, Lyle Gumbs, Cleone Boston, Sens. Alvin Williams and Raymond “Usie” Richards, Carol Pazik, Karen Nisbett, Lisa Williams, Cherese Tucker, Jonathan Tucker, Victoria Bernard, Wanda and Serge Brooks, Carlene Woods, Keiya Brooks, Osee Celestine, Cordalia Lettsome, Denice Huggins, Ricardo Caldwell, and Erica Bevin.
This weekend there is the Sunset White Fashion Fete scheduled to be held at one of our favorite restaurants – Oceana in Frenchtown. This affair is just a part of the whole weekend of events which also includes “Global Glamour,” billed as a Summer Sizzle VI Fashion Show, which will feature several designers including our very own Andre Etienne. Looking forward to the romp on the runway. Hope to see you there.
SCENE……………!!!
Invitations to public and private events may be sent to June Archibald at junearchibald2@gmail.com or source@viaccess.net.
