The Ultimate DuVine Soiree
by Bike tour guru
We've had DuVine soirees in the past. We've celebrated our loyal guests, our valued partners, and our favorite causes. But never quite like this. Never on such a grand scale. On Friday, January 27, we topped all our past celebrations, bringing the DuVine Experience in full to the Taj in Boston. Judging by the pictures alone, it's pretty clear that all in attendance had a blast.
One of the real highlights of the night was our raffle and silent auction, which raised a hefty sum of money for the Pan-Mass Challenge, which we're partnering with this year to benefit the great cause that is the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and its Jimmy Fund. Up for grabs in the raffle was a ticket to Portugal's stunning Azores islands, courtesy of the Consul General of Portugal, Paulo Cunha Alves, who was in attendance himself. And the items on the auction table were no less incredible: Red Sox and Celtics tickets; a four-course dinner for four at Rialto; a Tom Brady autographed Sports Illustrated magazine; a two night stay at the Wauwinet in Nantucket; a bike ride with the PMC's Billy Starr and DuVine founder Andy Levine; and much, much more. All proceeds went to the Pan-Mass Challenge.
As all of you know by now, we at DuVine love to have a good time. If you've ever been on a DuVine bike tour, it's hard to miss. The same goes for when we get together to celebrate. It's actually hard to say what is more fun: a DuVine bike tour, or the soiree. It's a close call, so we'll let you decide. But after we were done chatting over a few drinks, some scrumptious appetizers, and an array of delicious entrees, Alisa and Andy got the party started. With their inspiring speeches and Andy's memorable song and dance routine, the party was in full swing as everyone took to the dance floor for what quickly became a night to remember. From the food to the dancing, the photo booth to the auction, and everything in between, it could not have been any better. These things don't just happen on their own, though, and there are quite a few people who deserve our thanks for making it all happen.
A big thanks is owed to everyone who made the auction possible. Their huge generosity is the reason that we were able to make such a wonderful donation to the Pan-Mass Challenge, and they absolutely deserve our recognition. Supplying the awesome auction prizes were: the Wauwinet hotel; Honest Tea; Nashoba Valley Ski Area; photographer Eric Levin (who also ran the crazy-fun photo booth); Steven Zevitas Gallery; Gstarfit; LAZ Parking; Lisa Pierpont and Boldfacers; Rialto Restaurant and Jody Adams; La Montage gallery; John Deputy, the Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston; and La Morra restaurant.
Another group of people absolutely crucial to the success of this fantastic event were our valued partners and sponsors, without whom this night never would have gotten off the ground. So, for their outstanding contribution to a great night and a great cause, we want to recognize: Isablle Perny from Atout France; Sharon Katzav from the Israel Ministry of Tourism; Fionna Dunne from Tourism Ireland; David K. Richter and Jess Canor from CitationAir; Laurence Gagnon from the Delegation du Quebec a Boston; Paulo Cunha Alves, the Consul General of Portugal; Pascal Marmier, the Consul General of Switzerland; Christophe Guilhou, the Consul General of France; Jody Adams of Rialto Restaurant; Pamela Feick from JG Blackbook; Aoife Owens and Heather Daly from Nantucket Island Resorts; and Patrick Blangy from the Taj. In addition to our dedicated DuVine staff, each of these people made an invaluable contribution to the night's success.
Last but not least, a huge thank you is owed to all the DuViners out there. Without you, we would have nothing to celebrate. Without you, we would not be anywhere near where we are today, and it is thanks to you that the DuVine style is flourishing. 2011 was an outstanding year, but we can already tell that 2012 is shaping up to be even better. With new bike tours in France, Italy, Spain, and more, as well as new Pro Series cycling tours that will push you to your limit, there is so much to do this year. So keep on riding, and stay DuVine. We can't wait to see you on the road soon!
