Glass Slipper Gala
The Place: The DoubleTree by Hilton in Cranberry, Saturday night.
The Party: The North Allegheny Golden Strolling Strings lined the hall playing guests into the ballroom area for a Champagne reception at the Glass Slipper Ball. The event raised funds for three charities: Treasure House Fashions, providing clothing for women in need; Living in Liberty, providing a safe home for trafficked women and CEED, critical water projects in Northeast Kenya. KDKA-TV’s Kym Gable (with Jeff) was the emcee. A silent auction, raffles and a photo stop kept everyone busy before the doors to the ballroom opened along with the food stations. Table magazine’s Victoria Bradley and food writer Elizabeth Worrall were the judges for best dish, but everyone had a say for People’s Choice Best Chef. Peoples Overall Favorite was John Marshall Catering and the Judges Award for Best of the Best was Eddie Merlot
This year there also was a Princess of the Ball, Jenevieve Wood, with her prince charming U.S. Army Specialist Gary Collin. “We started this event in our living room 16 years ago with eight chefs,” said Debra Dion Krischke of Team Effort Events. “Finally my husband Ryan said, ‘We have to look for more space,’ “she laughed. Mrs. Krischke went on to replicate the event 34 times in cities around the country. “In 16 years the event has raised $1.5 million for critical women’s initiatives,” she said. She thanked the chefs and wine purveyors for donating their time and products and went on to thank the volunteers and sponsors and the guests who have supported the event over the years. An Arthur Murrary dance exhibition along with the music of DJ Kelli Burns inspired everyone to fill the dance floor.
The People: Among the 450 guests who came to eat, drink, dance and bid for several good causes were the founders of the evening’s beneficiaries Jill Whitecap, Sally Power, Elizabeth Echevarria and Graham Hodgetts, Dan Burda with Steven Perrine, Mario and Rosalinda Cardinali, Dale Thompson, Bonda and Paul Kelly, Sheila Yam with Kevin Peterson, Ken and Jo Wittfeldt and Shellie Hipsky. Former Steeler Doug Legursky with his wife Megan also attended, donating a signed pair of his size 16 cleats to the silent auction.
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