Chris Romine, the president of the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund, glanced around at the more than 200 guests who attended the organization's annual gala, this time with a theme celebrating Dixieland Jazz.
"This is our fundraiser for the year," said Romine at the Lakewood Ranch Country Club. "This event funds our grant cycle."
Obviously, those who paid $175 a ticket, and bought auction items to help that grant process, had a wonderful time while doing it.
The highlight of the night was the presentation of the 2017 C. John A. Clarke Humanitarian of the Year Award to John Fain and Angela Massaro-Fain, co-owners of Grapevine Communications in Lakewood Ranch.
"This is a very special community," John Fain said. "From the bottom of our souls, we appreciate this recognition."
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John Fain and Angela Massaro-Fain receive the 2017 C. John A. Clarke Humanitarian of the Year Award from past Community Fund president Diane Brune.
Lynn and Chris Romine enjoy the festivities. Chris Romine is the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund president.
Daniel Tullidge, Amanda Tullidge, Julie Smith and Robert Smith are ready for a big night of entertainment.
Lakewood Ranch Country Club employee Angel Millne cuts a slice for prime rib at the gala.
Lakewood Ranch' s Don Baugh gives a thumbs up to the great selection of food at the gala.
Keiser University' s Viloleta Huesman grabs a selfie with Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance Executive Director Heather Kasten.
Bradenton' s Jack and Anna McClure are on hand to support the Community Fund.
The Players Centre' s Michelle Bianchi-Pingel and Jeffery Kin network at the gala.
Sarasota' s Kathleen Homan and Kreg Hickman take a break from dinner to pose for a photo at the gala.
Mark Huesman, Violeta Huesman, Denise Pope and Robert Pope are regular supporters of the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund.
The food never stops coming at the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund gala.
Diane and Greg Brune hit the dance floor at the gala.
Event chair Shari Phillips enjoys a moment with her husband, Doug, at the gala.
Lakewood Ranch' s Heather Kasten, Sarasota' s Roxie Jerde and Sarasota' s Shannon Rohrer-Phillips enjoy some laughs at the gala.
Lakewood Ranch' s Heather Black and Starla Armstrong enjoy some adult beverages at the gala.
River Club' s Eric Rathfelder and Shirley Hirons were dressed for the occasion, which asked people to wear Dixieland jazz or black tie attire.
