Months after this gala, many of the 750 who attended were still brought to tears or lumps in the throat remembering parts of an unforgettable evening. TESSA’s work is, by its nature, heartbreaking as it empowers victims of domestic violence and continues work to slow sexual assault. This anniversary acknowledged 40 years of work and the dream for a less violent future. Guests entered the gala through a forest of breathtaking hanging cheesecloth art panels by artist De Lane Bredvik, disguising the phases of domestic violence hiding just beneath the surface. Those who had survived domestic violence shared their stories and a poignant violin-cello “Candle in the Wind” paid tribute to those “In Memoriam.” All in all, a stunning presentation by Executive Director SherryLynn Boyles and TESSA.