December 4, 2008 Issue                                       

©2007 The Chestnut Hill Local

Party local at the CHHS Potpourri
by PAULA M. RILEY

During this holiday season, many residents have renewed their commitment to shop locally. Now it is time to party locally. This Saturday night the biggest party of the year will be held in one of Chestnut Hill’s finest residences, and it is not too late to get tickets.

The Chestnut Hill Historical Society, presents A Hollywood Gala — 2008 Preservation Potpourri on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.  The evening contains all the fine details needed to deliver the grandest of holiday galas and the added benefit is contributing to the Chestnut Hill community.

While shopping on the Avenue helps keep the merchants here, attending Preservation Potpourri ensures that the historical society can continue to perform its good works for the community. The gala generates approximately 25 percent of the organization’s annual budget.

Chestnut Hill residents, regardless of the age of their home or their interest in history, benefit from the work of the historical society. Some will gain land ownership information, family photos, house histories or genealogical data from the society’s professionally managed archival collection of more than 16,000 items.

Others consult the CHHS Resource Center, which includes a rich database of contractors, trades people and other home improvement professionals experienced in handling historical homes. Many enjoy the free lectures on topics such as “Famous Local Architects” and “How to Save Money Heating Your Home” as well as tours and maps produced by the society.

At the Gala bright lights will greet guests as they arrive to the crowd of camera-flashing paparazzi on the red carpet outside the stunning Norman-styled country estate on Crefeld Street. Inside, fabulous gowns and sharp suits will whisk across a large dance floor to the sounds of the John Hoey Orchestra, an 11-member ensemble specializing in authentic swing from the big band era. They are back for a return engagement after their much acclaimed performance at Preservation Potpourri 2003.

To accompany the wonderful music and wide variety of liquid refreshments, Bacchus Catering will serve a menu for the stars, featuring the finest ingredients amidst a colorful presentation.  Thanks to the generosity of sponsors Chestnut Hill Resale, Citibank, Creative Contracting, Inc., Eichler & Moffly Realtors, Geppert Brothers, Inc., Edward J. Meloney, Inc., Russell Roofing, and Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Wood Jr., this year’s Preservation Potpourri will be the area’s most distinguished holiday event.

Guests will revel in the Hollywood feeling as they celebrate in grand style. A special thanks to Michael and Nancy Verruto who graciously opened their historic estate for the gala.

Once known for its famous resident, Eleanor Dixon, today the private home boasts of English oak paneling, mantles and doors that were once in the hunting lodge of King James 1. These, along with the fireplace, were brought from Dixon’s Roneale Manor, her 1925 Trumbauer estate in Elkins Park. The breathtaking French baroque stair stretches into the two-story entrance hallway and meets a large, spectacular window. 

While enveloped in the luxury of this elegant mansion, guests will enjoy activities only found at the big Hollywood galas. Astrology readings will provide insights into what 2009 has in store for them! After the future is certain, celebrate the good or bad news with a game of bowling.  The Verruto’s basement bowling lane with be available for those looking for a chance at the pins.

For residents looking to party and shop locally, the gala’s auction and raffle offer great gifts fit for the stars. Four lucky winners will be flown to Los Angeles to attend a live American Idol show with the country’s rising stars. If LA is too far, perhaps a New York City trip is more appealing — this includes two round trip train tickets, cab fare, tickets to a Broadway show, a Coach bag and gift certificates to Bergdorf, Bloomingdales and Macy’s.

Other winners will bring home a trip to Philadelphia featuring a limo ride to Center City, passes to the screening of Philadelphia movie maker Melissa Fitzgerald’s documentary, “Voices of Uganda,” a personal trainer session, and dinner gift certificate.

For information about tickets, please contact Audrey Simpson at the Chestnut Hill Historical Society, 215-247-0417.