by Natasha Khairullah
Staff Writer
International Visitor Corps of Jacksonville brought back one of the sweetest fundraisers around Thursday with its sixth annual Chocolates of the World Gala 2007.
The four-hour event was held at the Hyatt Regency Riverfront and featured chocolates from around the world. Guests were able to sample and judge a six-chef confection competition.
The chefs each prepared desserts that were sampled and then voted on based on taste and presentation.
Five of the chefs that competed were from restaurants in Jacksonville – including the winning chef, Tony Pels from Mezza Luna Restaurant in Atlantic Beach – and one was from Orlando. Pels’ award was based on majority votes for overall best taste. The gala also featured International cuisine, music and live and silent auctions. Approximately 300 people attended, including City Council President Michael Corrigan, Todd Roobin, chief of the Jacksonville Film & Television Office, along with Jaguar players and other City officials.
Although the Internation Visitor Corps Jacksonville (IVCJ) declined to disclose the exact amount raised at the event, publicist Liz Morgan said the gala was a huge success.
“It was a fun time had by all,” she said. “Proceeds will benefit programs to advance international understanding conducted by the IVCJ.”
The IVCJ is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization. Its mission is to promote better international relations by hosting and arranging professional programs for visiting professionals sponsored by international exchange programs. Since its founding, IVCJ has hosted more than 1,000 emerging leaders and professionals from over 80 countries, allowing them to experience life in America. The organization also arranges and coordinates meetings for visitors with business, professional, cultural and governmental leaders in their respective fields of interest.
For more information on the IVCJ and its upcoming events, visit www.ivcjax.com .