Boar's Head Pavilion in Charlottesville, Virginia: Banquet Review

Chosen by AUI and NRAO for Their Employee Banquet

Last night, June 18th 2009, from 6pm until 9pm, I had the delightful pleasure of dining at the Boar's Head Pavilion in Charlottesville, Virginia. The occasion was a special dinner for employees of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, sponsored by Associated Universities, Inc. AUI manages the NRAO under agreement with the National Science Foundation (NSF). Allow me to discuss the events of the night, particularly in connection with Boar's Head and it's excellent facilities.

Although knowing full well where the Boar's Head Inn is, my wife and I could not locate the Pavilion. We made inquiry of an employee, and received the most courteous assistance in locating the structure. Embarrassingly, we were a mere 20 or 30 yards from it at the time. Parking was ample, and we strolled into the facility. Perhaps twenty-five to fifty guests were already present. Two bars were set up for pre-dinner refreshment. Hors-d'oeuvre were offered, including large shrimp, spinach-containing phyllo pastries, and wafers with spicy toppings.

The number of persons eventually arriving was quite large - more than one hundred. Being an early retiree, it was good to see so many happy and familiar faces. Under the stewardship of Dr. Fred K. Y. Lo, the NRAO is a premium organization to work for. They really care for their employees. I looked forward to the reminiscences, and of course, to the dinner. We had no idea what would be on the menu.

Lighting by chandelier was ample, yet not overpowering. Our round table seated ten. The linens were crisp and spotless. The napkins were flawlessly folded. The place-setting included a water glass and a narrow-stemmed wine glass, a butter dish with knife and pats of butter, a dessert fork and spoon, a salad fork and knife, a soup spoon, and a fork and knife for the main platter. The silverware was brilliant, untarnished, and spotless.

The waitresses operated in rapid and professional fashion, speaking politely and not to excess, remaining unobtrusive - a delight to be sure. Conversation among guests could thus proceed uninterrupted.