Catholic Charities celebrates 40 years of serving all at its annual ball

To celebrate 40 years of serving those in its area, the Diocese of Venice held its annual Catholic Charities Ball on Feb. 17 at Michael's On East. Hundreds of guests attended the sold-out event, where monies raised go to to serving the needs in the community.

Beginning with a cocktail hour that included bagpipe playing by Kevin Wiegand and passed hors d'oeuvres, guests were seated and presented with a deconstructed salad of fresh burrata with sliced prosciutto di parma, served on a bed of arugula. Michael's special roasted garlic and herb crusted Chateau de Boeuf was the main course, and guests were treated to a classic tiramisu dessert.

Ball Committee Chair Bridget Spiess gave a warm welcome and asked guests to remember two 'H' words when serving neighbors: hope and help, and touched everyone's heartstrings as she explained how many people are served in this community. Robyn Lista sang the national anthem, Michael Klauber served as emcee and auctioneer, and the invocation was given by Rev. Frank J. Dewane, Bishop of the Diocese of Venice. Entertainment was provided by the Phase 5 Band out of the Tampa Bay area.

Catholic Charities Dioceses of Venice's values include compassion, integrity and empathy in the service and treatment of clients and employees, effectiveness and efficiency in the fight against social injustices and oppression in all its forms, and recognition of the dignity and worth of each individual.