Chefs Clint Boutwell and Michael Patrick are throwing a chefs’ tasting fundraiser to benefit the Downtown safety patrol on Wednesday, November 5 at Orleans on Front. The patrol, which has been on the streets since April 1, consists of bicycle safety officers who ride around Downtown and protect people from aggressive panhandling, parking scams and other threats to their safety. They patrol from 8 AM to 9 PM Sunday-Wednesday and 8 PM to 11 PM Thursday-Saturday. You can call them at 281-9146 if you need them, and they can be anywhere in the area bounded by Front, Second, Adams, and Linden within minutes. Their presence has made a big difference – based on my observations walking around Downtown, I’d say panhandling is down 80% compared to what it was a year ago. No tax money is used to fund the patrol, so it’s important for businesses and individuals who benefit from their presence to contribute to keep them out on the streets.
The menu for the fundraiser will consist of panko encrusted grouper cheeks, fig stuffed pork loin, and praline creme brulee. If you want to attend the event, you’ll need to call 522-1475 and make reservations.
I talked to Michael Patrick a couple of weeks ago, and I knew this was in the works… I’m glad to see it’s now officially on the calendar. Glad to see these two chefs supporting the effort to keep our Downtown community safe.