Catholic Charities Providing help. Creating hope.

Party-goers kick up booted heals
for Catholic Charities

By Heather Felton
The Florida Catholic Newspaper

There was toe-tapping and fine dining at the fifth annual “Boots and Bandannas” benefit for Catholic Charities of DeSoto County, bringing in nearly 200 supporters and volunteers to benefit the nonprofit agency based out of Arcadia.

“To have you all under one roof tonight is truly a delight,” said Sister Ann DeNicolo, BVM, program director of the DeSoto County agency.

Sharing the spotlight with Bishop Frank J. Dewane, the event’s special guest, the pair lauded the dedication of those in attendance.

“These people may not be the wealthiest,” she added, “but they are the most faith-filled, faithful and generous people in the diocese.”

Bishop Dewane seconded her reflections, also commending Sister DeNicolo for her efforts in DeSoto County.

“She is a legend in her own time,” he said. “What is done in Catholic Charities is an example for the rest of the dioceses,” he said.

As is the custom, the party featured a variety of silent auction items, including a variety of gift baskets, rounds of golf at local country clubs and several pieces of art. The bids began quickly rising as friends and party-goers attempted out bid each other on their favorite items.

“People have been so generous, even when they aren’t coming (to the event, they buy tickets for others),” said Bob Gannon, a co-chair of the event.

Unlike the Catholic Charities balls in Fort Myers, Naples and Sarasota, the event for DeSoto County, hosted at the Mission Valley Country Club, Venice, has a western theme with the guests attired in their finest denim. The relaxed clothing also adds to the casual atmosphere where high-stepping and the occasional line dance take over the dance floor.

Photo: Bishop Frank Dewane (center) chats with Catholic Charities Volunteer Gerrie Weaver (right) and Catholic Charities President Peter Routsis-Arroyo (left) at the 2007 Boots and Bandannas Dinner Dance that raises money for programs in DeSoto County.

This story and photo appeared in The Florida Catholic Newspaper.