Philadelphia

Party Pixs: Ryan Howard “The Big Piece” Foundation Gala for Stand Up for Literacy

July 30, 2013 by HughE Dillon

Last night at the Franklin Institute,

 

Ryan Howard and his new bride, Krystal Campbell Howard‘s foundation Ryan Howard “The Big Piece” Foundation, hosted The First Annual Comedy Night to benefit Stand Up for Literacy. (In the past, the Ryan Howard Family Foundation, donated over $1.2 million to
help put athletic uniforms and footwear on Philly school students)

 The night started off with a cocktail party, as Krystal and Ryan greeted their guests on the red carpet, and posed for photos with them. I really appreciated the warm welcome they gave me, especially since I was about 10 minutes late cause I couldnt make up my mind on whether to wear shorts or long pants. You know I’m chillaxing this summer. I chose pants as I knew it would look nicer, and it’s only polite too. I’ll wear shorts at the pool party I’m shooting on Thursday and Saturday.

 OK makes me think why isn’t Jenn Utley looking at me?
 Does she think I can read her mind, like when I guessed she was pregnant 3 years ago? 
Hmm what are your thoughts? Why would I get the side eye look? I think she’s three months glowing again, thoughts?
(My flash failed on the third shot that’s why it’s kinda dark.)
 Brothers Windstein: Kevin, Larry and Steven with Alicia McDade, and Mindy Brodie. They were so excited to celebrate the night, meet some of the Phillies and raise money for
 Joe and Soo Abboud
 Jacquie Craig, Anthony DelGaudio, Betty and Joseph DiGregorio, guest, Stephenie Lemma and Anthony Lemma
 And the band played on. Through that door was the VIP cocktail party, but I found many of the players in the main cocktail area mingling with guests.
BVTLive! www.bvtlive.com
Provided all of the entertainment. Billy Handy played the piano in the VIP
Lounge, Tony Forliano Jazz Trio played in the entrance way. The four of
us then joined together to play during dinner.
Always down to earth Jimmy and Johari Rollins. They really are the Mr and Mrs Philadelphia sports couple, they live here, their kids are going to go to school here, really super regular. Johari is from the Philadelphia area, as is Krystal Howard. Krystal’s family was all in attendance at the event last night.
 There was a great auction too. Lots interesting things.
 
Auctions are so hard to organize, so it’s not uncommon for charity galas to tap into a local auction house.
The home plate sold for $600 (I always wanted one. I once bid on one but was outbid. I do wonder, where would I put it?)
 Mike and Marietta Borinski have their eye on the prize for the Chase Utley signed bat.
 Tim Ginnettino, Tom Crane and Eileen Herncane, holding a Philles Candy Apple. (Thanks for reading PhillyChitChat too, I appreciate it.)
Ruben Amaro Jr. and girlfriend, Jami Schnell
 Krystal Howard executed the decoration of the entire room, and it was really gorgeous. When I was espousing how gorgeous the room was, friends of theirs told me she’s hand on with decorating their new house in Florida. She picks out several items and runs them by Ryan for his thoughts. I think she has great taste.
On the chairs for each guest was a Tshirt, a note book and a candy apple, which works so well since the event was raising money for literacy.

A Ryan Howard robe sold for $200
Jim Brown helmet went for $450
Lyn and David Montgomery is the part-owner, general partner, president, and chief executive officer of the Philadelphia Phillies
Cole and Heidi Hamels, another excellent community sports couple. I know they’re not having a great season, but as far as philanthropy and good role models, these two are right up there with the best. One of the MUST ATTEND EVENTS is

Diamonds & Denim Event which is
Thursday, August 15, 2013 at 6:30pm. It’s nearly sold out so get your tickets if your interested in going. 

Philadelphia School District
Superintendent Dr. William Hite is with the Hamels

Tracy and Drew Geisler
Samantha and Connor MacHugh with Michael DiSalvia

Nancy Velori, Brittney Shipp, NBC Meteorologist, Janine Leishear and Abbie Friedman
Joe and Kellie Gagliotti who own Joseph Anthony Salon (Glen Mills)

The Phillies Ball Girls: Michelle, MacKenzie, Rachal, Marcie and Taylor oh who did I forget?
Nice cake by the Cake Boss