Gala Guests Spend “Midnight at the Oasis” - The Philadelphia Protestant Home

On October 5, Cannstatter Volksfest Verein was transformed into a desert fantasy land for PPh’s “Midnight at the Oasis” Gala. In its seventh year, the gala raises money for PPh’s Benevolent Care Fund.

The evening began with a cocktail reception and silent auction in a room draped like a sheik’s tent. Guests were greeted by Jeanie from “I Dream of Jeanie,” A.K.A. Mary Bargerhuff, of PPh’s beauty salon, Shear Wonders.

As a harpist played in the background, guests mingled and munched on hors d’oeuvres and sipped on our signature “Three Wishes” cocktails. Silent auction items for every taste were available for bid, including signed sports memorabilia, resort packages, sporting event tickets, jewelry, and gift baskets.

At the dinner hour, belly dancer Fatima Bassmah led guests into the banquet hallwhere the “Midnight at the Oasis” theme continued. The ceiling was draped like a luxurious desert tent. Twinkling lights behind the stage seemed like a clear desert sky. Genie lantern centerpieces lit from within, designed by Sally’s Flowers, graced each table.

Anthony Manzo, President and CEO, and Barbara Beckman, Board Chair, welcomed guests and thanked the corporate sponsors, volunteers, and auction donors. The winners of the raffle prizes were drawn of the first prize of a trip to Las Vegas or $1,500, second prize of $500, and third prize of a basket of cheer.

Guests feasted on fare from food stations that featured kabobs, seafood, a carving station, and a variety of desserts. After a sumptuous meal, guests danced the night away to the music of Bandstand. As a memento of the evening, guests received an insulted wine tote.

Thanks to the corporate sponsors, who made the “Midnight at the Oasis” Gala possible:

Dubai

Abriola Company

Patricia Baccash, M.D.

Contract Pharmacy Services

McKesson Medical-Surgical

Reliant Rehabilitation

Southeastern Home HealthServices

The Reverend Sherwood Van Atta

Cairo

Evercare

Liberty Integrated Solutions