fp Turks and Caicos

The Turks and Caicos Reef Fund will host its 1st Annual Cocktail Party Reception on Feb. 18 from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Veranda Resort.

All the proceeds from the event will help the non-profit group continue its work toward helping to preserve and protect the marine environment of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Founded in 2010, the TCRF is an all volunteer-run organization that provides funding for education, research and conservation programs to individuals, organizations and agencies that are protecting the oceans and reefs in the TCI.

The evening will entertain guests with easy listening live tunes by David and Shara Bowen, and reef supporters can participate in a silent auction and a raffle drawing for various items including a 3-day, 2-night stay on Parrot Cay.

“The support we have received from local merchants for the silent auction has been amazing and very greatly appreciated,” said Don Stark, chairman of the TCRF. “The silent auction will feature gift certificates from several restaurants on Provo, works of art from several local artists, various items from local water sports operators and a Grand Turk Adventure Package. We want to also thank the Veranda for generously offering to host the event for us.”

“We are very excited to host this event and expect it will become one of the social events of the year as it becomes established,” said David Stone, deputy chairman of the TCRF. “The silent auction and raffle will help us tremendously in our efforts to continue the various projects including expanding the dive boat moorings, adding and improving snorkel trails on the islands, and continuing to expand the Blue Flag Beach Certification program. We also hope to use some of our funds to help control the invasive lionfish species, which is threat to traditional finfish and lobster fisheries around these islands.”

The environmental group is also seeking donations from the community, and local and visiting scuba divers are encouraged to make a $10 donation through the purchase of a dive tag that can be attached to their dive gear to show their support of TCI underwater life.

Everyone can also show their support by purchasing a TC Reef Fund silicone wristband for $5. To view the complete list of outlets for TCRF merchandise, visit www.TCReef.org.

Tickets are $30 per person and can be obtained by contacting David Stone at 649-346-3111.