In case you missed it: 10 reasons to go to the B&W Gala

Why you should attend the Black & White Gala
by Paula M. Riley

If you have been at the shore all summer or your head has been in the sand (figuratively or literally), you may have missed the stories about this year’s Chestnut Hill Community Association and Chestnut Hill Community Fund Black and White Gala and Silent Auction. 

The Black and White Gala is held outside on a warm fall evening with great auction items.  If that’s not enough, here are other reasons why you should attend the gala:

1. It’s happening in September, specifically on Saturday, Sept. 25 at 7:30 p.m.  Other than shipping the kids back to school and the mass exodus from the beach, nothing exciting ever happens in September – until the gala, of course.

2. SoHa (which means South of Hartwell Avenue for you newbies) will be transformed into a Roaring ‘20s party complete with white party tents and a full dance floor. Even the stodgiest among us will be able to relax and enjoy the festive mood.

3. It’s a reason to get dressed up (tuxes are not required, but most guests do wear black or white attire). Who needs a reason to get dressed up, you wonder? Everyone. No matter your age, size or wardrobe, putting on an elegant black and white outfit makes even the most demure person feel like a million bucks.

4. The gala appeals to all generations. Whether you call yourself a senior, Baby Boomer or Gen-Xer, you will enjoy the party.

5. If you haven’t danced to Big Band music since the last wedding you’ve attended – get ready for Paula Johns and the John Clark Big Band. Boy, can she can belt out the tunes! Combine this with an amazing brass section and even you non-dancers will be tapping your feet to their magical sounds.

6. You can bid (and strike a deal) on a huge variety of auction baskets. There are trips to rental homes and Eagles tickets and thanks to the generosity of local merchants and donors, much more. Interested in a wine party at the home a renowned sommelier? Do you want Javelin Design to create and host a website for your growing business? There’s something you will want to win at the silent auction.

7. Everyone in your home will want something from the auction – the athlete in the house will love the basketball instruction and camp from Coach Matt Paul. Your teenage girls will enjoy Millennium Nail Salon & Spa package and the little ones will love the Ballerina Party Package from O’Doodles, which includes a pearl necklace from Lemons and Limes and tickets to the Nutcracker, donated by Jane Piotrowski and Janine Dwyer.

  

8. Your pooch, big or small, will enjoy the gift card from Bone Appetite: 12 doggie baths from Philly Dog Spot and daily dog walking courtesy of Meet ‘n’ Greet.

9. Passes to yoga classes at Chestnut Hill Yoga, Balance Chestnut Hill are accompanied by fitness clothing from American Eagle Outfitters. 

10. Yes it’s a fundraiser but the money goes directly to the community in which you live, you love and cherish!

This year’s Black and White Gala is being generously sponsored by Bowman Properties, Chestnut Hill Hospital, East River Bank, Elfant Wissahickon Realtors, Stephen T. Piotrowski and Valley Green Bank. Be sure to add it to your calendar. For more information and tickets, call 215-248-8810 or visit www.chestnuthill.org.