B.V.I. June 25, 2009 – The BVI London Office is today hosting a reception at which Mr. Philicianno “Foxy” Callwood will be the guest of the honour.
Mr. Callwood, the well known proprietor of Foxy’s Bar and Restaurant on Jost Van Dyke, is the Territory’s latest recipient of the medal as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Having been listed on the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List for his exemplary contributions to tourism and the preservation of the Territory’s culture, Mr. Callwood received his medal from Her Majesty the Queen at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday, June 24.
In a message on the occasion of the awarding of the order to Mr. Callwood, Premier Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE affectionately referring to him as Foxy, said “this is a special moment not only for Foxy and his family but also for the entire BVI as we join him in celebrating this personal milestone.”
Honourable O’Neal said Mr. Callwood is “well deserving of such recognition” and he expressed delight that he is “alive to have this honour bestowed upon him and in such a gracious and memorable way.”
The Premier, who is also the Minister for Tourism, added that “as one of the Territory’s prominent tourism ambassadors, Foxy has promoted our islands at many events, both personally, and in conjunction with the BVI Tourist Board.”
Honourable O’Neal described Mr. Callwood as “one of the economic drivers on Jost Van Dyke” and noted that his world renown establishment has been rated “one of the best places in the world to ring in the New Year.”
In his message, the Premier also acknowledged Mr. Callwood’s talent as an “entertainer, musician and storyteller,” vividly recalling the visit by Princess Alexandra in 1988 when “Foxy accompanied her as she walked on the beach and true to form he burst into spontaneous compositions much to her delight.”
Speaking ahead of today’s reception hosted by the BVI London Office, Director Ms. Dawn Smith also extended congratulations to Mr. Callwood, describing him as “one of the Territory’s national treasures.”
Ms. Smith said the BVI London Office is “delighted to have him as the Guest of Honour at our annual Territory Day celebration.” She added that “Territory Day is very special for us in London as it usually signals the start of our annual Art and Culture Show which allows us to showcase what the islands have to offer beyond great beaches and year-round warm temperatures.”
The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire is bestowed upon persons who are deserving of public recognition because of outstanding service to the community. Honourees have included community leaders and public servants, among others.
British Virgin Islands News