Date: 31/05/2007

The still lush Ortinola Estate in Maracas Valley, St Joseph, was the ideal setting for the Guardian Holdings Limited (GHL) Family Day and cookout. The patented GHL Spirit was ever present, as staff from regional offices came together to enjoy some fun in the sun. The sun was indeed out in its glory and though everyone left wearing unevenly applied tans, the memories of the day remained top of mind.

Fun activities were distributed throughout the day but the main event was the “Eat ah Food” Festival, showcasing the culinary skills of 13 teams representing different Regional Offices. From intricate carvings on a watermelon to the barbequing a whole pig on a spit, through bamboo serving plates, homemade ice cream and a cake baked without the oven, ‘the old fashioned way’. One team even ushered the judges in with sounds of Tassa. Former West Indies Cricketer & CEO of Basia Sport Magazine, Ricardo Powell and his wife Alicia John-Powell (Managing Director of Basia Magazine), Sheila Joseph (Owner, Separate Tables Caterers) and Award winning Decorator Joan Wilson had the envious task of being the celebrity judges.

Las Guardias de Comidas, hailing from the Guardian Life East Regional Centre, copped first prize with their Mexican Cinco de Mayo presentation, complete with dancers and a specially mixed Mexicola shot. The Investment Chefs from Guardian Asset Management got the nod for second, while the Dukes De Vince’s masterpiece landed them third.

For the Nature Lovers & Hikers a leisurely walk or a more challenging course amidst the bamboo shoots of the valley was the perfect prescription for the weather. For the Athletic (or Cooking-Challenged) the Soca Train, Tug-a-War or Eat Run & Slide, among other Novelty Events had an appeal. For the Operatic few (as well as the tone deaf) the GHL Unplugged Segment Powered by BMobile saw talent that could easily be our own ‘Trinbagonian Idol’, with exciting Karaoke with Jonathan Bobb taking top prize after crooning the James Blunt classic “You’re Beautiful”. Levi Myers, Ziggy Ranking, and Blazer Dan also entertained the crowd with their popular songs.

All children were treated to face painting, a toddler’s area, bouncy castle and non competitive events as the Bunny Hop and Hula Hoop. Guardian General’s “Road Safe” mascot GG was also present to delight the kids and spread his message of road safety through education of the safe practices.

GHL celebrates its success in fostering a positive climate for action amongst its employees and more importantly facilitating quality time among employees, co workers and their families.