First Posted: 11/11/2014

The Catholic Social Services of the Diocese of Scranton is hosting its 3rd annual “Rhythm and Wine” from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Nov. 21, at the Bartolai Winery, Route 92 in Harding to benefit the Catholic Social Services’ Wyoming Valley Office.

“This event started out as a great idea that we thought could sell 100 tickets,” said Vince Splendido, Vice-Chair of the Board at the Catholic Social Services, said. “Now it is three years down the road and is a sell-out event. It has grown to be more than we ever anticipated.”

In fact, the Catholic Social Services has raised more than $20,000 over the past three years. Last year, more than $10,500 was raised. Each year the money is donated to programs that help homeless veterans.

“The programs help veterans get shelter, food, clothing, everyday things,” said Allison Splendido, Rhythm and Wine Coordinator. “We want to help those who have helped us by giving us our freedom.”

Catholic Services help provide services ranging from the Big Brothers, Big Sisters program to programs for the elderly and helping out soup kitchens. “Rhythm and Wine” came about because members of the organization saw an identifiable need for funds and didn’t want to eliminate any programs.

Rhythm and Wine is held the Friday before Thanksgiving to give people a chance to enjoy an evening of wine tasting, delicious appetizers and savory desserts and beautiful music with friends before the stress and madness of the holidays kicks in.

“We say the party goes to 9:30 p.m. but we have yet to end that early,” Mrs. Splendido said. “We want to thank Montessori Kelley, who embraces this fundraiser that is a little out of the box.” The Splendido’s also wanted to extend gratitude to Ron Evans, the Executive Director of Catholic Services.

“It is a heck of a fun night,” Mr. Splendido said. “It is a social atmosphere that helps out a great cause.”

The wine will be supplied by Bartolai Winery and the food will be catered by Dente Catering. Music will be provided by Paul Oschal and Take 3 throughout the evening. The celebrity guests who will be emceeing the night is Monica Madeja from Eyewitness News and Dave Kuharchik and Jasmine Brooks from PA Live.

Tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased through any Catholic Services board member or at Bartolai Winery. Information regarding tickets, sponsorships and door prizes can be obtain by contacting Kelli Jones at 570-822-7118, ext. 357 or kjones@csswb.org.