One year ago today the Academy hosted the first annual Top Mixologist. Although it was a great first run this year’s event was an even greater success raising over $15,000 for the Academy’s Community Outreach Initiative.
In keeping with the theme “The World Awaits”, bartenders from all over the city represented various nations around the globe. Guests were able to taste drinks and foods from all over the world without leaving Lynchburg.
The bartenders and servers got very creative with their decorations and outfits. From Ireland to Cuba, vibrant colors and delicious samples could be found wherever you looked. With a wide selection of drinks and dishes to taste, the competition was stiff. Ultimately, Daniel Servas representing Ireland won the popular vote securing RA Bistro’s title for the second year. Last year, Sasha Cash kept with the Willy Wonka theme and took the first Top Mixologist title dressed like an Oompa Loompa.
The Top Mixologist fundraiser a fresh take on an event the Academy once hosted called “Palettes & Palates”. Sales from tickets and merchandise at this fundraiser go towards the Academy’s work in the Lynchburg community. The Academy’s Community Outreach Initiative offers educational experiences, safety aids, and community enrichment initiatives to the Lynchburg community.
Other endeavors of the Community Outreach Initiative include offering scholarships for those unable to afford classes and camps, art programs in local public schools, discounted rental fees for local nonprofits, and ticket giveaways to performances. These efforts allow the Academy to use the arts culture to serve the Lynchburg community.
Thank you to all of our wonderful bartenders:
{RA} Bistro | Daniel Servas | Ireland
Jimmy’s on the James | Bob Rygielski | Italy
The Water Dog | Betsy Craig | France
Virginia Distillery Company | Whisky Will | Scotland
Avenue Foods | Clay Burtner | Cuba
Silverback Distillery | Chuck Longerbeam | England
And special thanks to The Manor House at Locust Thicket and all the restaurants for providing great food!
Thank you to our event sponsors Moore & Giles, Virginia Distillery Company, Member One Federal Credit Union, and Appalachian Power.
If you are interested in becoming a Top Mixologist bartender in the future please contact the Academy. We would love for you to showcase your talent to support Community Outreach!
