Black Tie Untied

Hearts Afire held their annual benefit Friday, March 1, at Michael’s On East — the seventh year that the organization has held their benefit to help raise money for the not-for-profit organization.

Unlike many black tie events throughout the season, the invitation noted that black tie was optional and international attire was welcome. Many people took the opportunity to wear outfits from various mission trips including India and Kenya. Heart of David, a local Christian rock band, performed a handful of their original songs, including a song they wrote for the organization called “Hearts Afire.”

Since 2006, Hearts Afire has taken hundreds of people — physicians, nurses, pharmacists, business people, ministers and other caring individuals — overseas to provide relief to a variety of hurting locations around the world.

The joint was jumpin’ and jivin’ for the Asolo’s annual gala Saturday night, at the Charles Ringling Mansion. Themed “American Big Band,” the event featured Michael Andrew and his 17-piece Atomic Big Band as the musical entertainment for the evening. Fayvin Duffy and Sid Pocius, of Empire Ballroom Studio, wowed the crowd with their special dance performance.

Co-Chairs Diana Kelly and Chris Cogan were proud to say that the event was sold-out and even had to add a few tables due to the high demand.

Check out the video below to see Michael Andrew and his band perform “I Get a Kick Out of You.”