Audia Caring Heritage Gala - 10/23/09

As couples strolled in toward a grape arbor for pictures, it was like a magical night in Italy at the Audia Caring Heritage Association’s “Mercantina di Caritá” or “Little Market for Charity” at Bella Serra. The 125 guests were entertained at the game tables during a lively casino for charity. They could also wander down the streets of an Italian market where vendors sold baked goods, toffee, handmade Italian dolls, and art by Pittsburgh photographer Terry Clark. The organization awarded Dr. Kenneth R. Melani with its Lifetime Achievement Award for his professional and philanthropic work. While enjoying a walking buffet full of tasty delights like calamari and chicken margherita, guests were entertained by the enchanting vocals of Angela Carrier. “She’s very tiny but when you heard her sing it just gave you goose bumps,” says Launa Post, project manager. Photography by Megan Wylie