Mayor’s Masked Ball at Philadelphia’s Convention Center Raises Over $760,000 for UNCF

Philadelphia’s Convention Center boasts escalators of amusement park-ride proportions.

Story, photos by Sharon Kozden

“A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”

Galas and balls may not be everyone’s (as the Brits say) cuppa char. I, however, would be hard pressed to decline an invite to either.

That said, and while the prospect of a evening at home in my comfies, chowing Chinese takeaway and watching a flick in the cuddly company of my fur babies is a thoroughly enticing one, an occasional night on the town offers a desirable change of pace. I relish an opportunity to bust out the glam finery of cocktail dresses and gowns, wield a mascara wand and do up a coiffure. Of course, and because “nothing gold can stay,” at some point during the evening, I’m keen to lose the girl clothes and feet-cramping heels. Until then, however, I’m all in. I want to see gents switch up those khakis for tuxes and look Don Draper- and Idris-Elba dapper in black-tie attire. Show me bejeweled ladies swishing into ballrooms, dressed to impress. Let’s have a ball!

On March 23th, a ball was, indeed, had, and I witnessed all of the aforementioned (and more!) at the Philadelphia Convention Center, site of the Mayor’s 7th annual Masked Ball to benefit UNCF (United Negro College Fund). Funds raised support students attending UNCF-member colleges and universities throughout the USA . This year’s event’s proceeds specifically benefitted Pennsylvania’s Cheyney University and Lincoln University. Both institutions of higher learning claim notable status as two of the oldest HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). More than $760,000 was raised by hundreds of enthusiastic and caring supporters invested in forging more promising futures for minority youth. One stand-out pair in the crowd was 2019’s Mr. and Miss Cheyney University, who graced the evening with their presence, both proudly adorned in school colors of royal blue and white and appropriately fitted with crowns and sashes.

A pre-ball reception just outside the actual ballroom transformed a carpeted expanse of Convention Center hallway into fete paradise. You name it, plentiful de rigueur party spots were stationed throughout the area, where guests could indulge in all. Post-media check-in, it was coats off and cameras out for we media and press. We “worked the room” while enjoying a bounty of libations, light bites, entertainment and more. I noshed on crudites from platters laden with more than the usually found items. Grilled veggies along with raw ones were a welcome mix. Cheese, fruit and cracker trays also proffered items beyond what populates the basic trifecta. Reception foodstuff staples were clearly elevated by the thoughtful inclusions. The bar was well-stocked with quality liquor along with bottles of finer wines white and red.

Locating a table studded with masks, beautiful in their design and artistry, I studied them intently. For facial un-recognition, available goods ranged from simple to elaborate, as did their price ranges. Said masks even had names. “Michelle Obama” sported pink feathers, silver beads and white faux pearls. A display of auction items included a Nick Foles-signed jersey and a Carson Wentz-autographed helmet, bangles and baubles and large gift baskets laden with the finest of fares were just a few of the items in the mix. A handsome silver-haired fellow, decked out in typical entertainer fashion with a snazzy tuxedo strolled the concourse, fingering his saxophone, leaving foot-tapping notes in his trail. NYC’s Xavier High School’s Blue Night Band showcased youthful musicians playing guitars, drums and other instruments. Folks sat on arranged chairs, listening and frequently applauding the talented group. Additionally, the ubiquitous photo-op wall panel was a busy spot, where many stopped to pose (theatrically or otherwise), creating keepsake memories of the event.

Because there was a briefly available (for media and press) red-carpet photo opportunity just within the ballroom’s entrance, I kept close watch on the time so as not to miss a moment. A seemingly endless stream of event principals and other notables among the more than 700 invitees present were relaxed and gracious posers, delighting in showing off their masks. In addition to the honorable Mayor James Kenney, reported notables included “event co-chairs Stephanie Mays Boyd, vice president of sales and marketing, Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority; Ric Harris, president and general manager, NBC10/Telemundo62; Alycia Horn, vice president and deputy general counsel, Comcast Cable; Joe H. Tucker, Jr., founder and managing partner, Tucker Law Group; HBCU presidents Dr. Brenda Allen, Lincoln University, and Aaron A. Walton, Cheney University; and Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO, UNCF.”

Despite being wholly focused on the red-carpet shutterbug activity, none in the crowd could miss the presence of a gold- and silver glistening goddess, who strolled the room outfitted in a hooped skirt filled with champagne flutes for the taking. Champagne fountains had nothing on this walking and talking sultry supplier of the bubbly.

Once the reception wrapped, the concourse cleared and invited guests settled in at their respective tables, all beautifully festooned with glorious floral arrangements. The evening’s more in-depth festivities began in earnest. All enjoyed a sumptuous meal while listening to lively speakers voicing remarks about UNCF’s many achievements and successes and the people whose consistent and loyal dedication and service throughout the years make it all happen. Mayor Kenney hosted and UNCF presented awards to a deserving group of long-time supporters, including Robert W. Bogle, president and CEO, Philadelphia Tribune, who was honored with 2019’s Masked Award. Others awardees were Comcast Corporation and Wells Fargo. Guests donated to both live and silent auctions and danced the night away to music queued by local DJ Gary-O. There was even a parade of masks, as these fanciful, fantastical creations deserved their own moments in the spotlight.

Kudos to Independence Blue Cross and Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, who served as Marquis sponsors for 2019’s ball. Applause as well to the many hard-working volunteers who shared time, energy and smiles to ensure a memorable was had by all.

And because none should leave a ball or a gala empty-handed, the ubiquitous swag bags were heaped high for all to have a grab at before venturing out into the night, no doubt waxing rhapsodic over the shimmering evening and hailing it as yet another success, another year … 75, to be exact (and since 1944) of “lighting the way to better futures.”

Learn more at UNCF.org.

Elegant sign design swirls and sparkles.

The 2019 gala celebrated its seventh year.

Press and media begin to arrive on the scene.

What’s an event without its volunteers? Cheery ladies are all smiles.

Bottles in formation for media reception imbibing occasion.

Cheese, fruit and cracker platters pair so well with wine and more. Nice spread.

My favorite is always the veggie- and dip a.k.a. crudité offering. Selection perfection here.

Dumpling poppers!

The masked, the merrier.

Roving- and dapper entertainer covers the reception area’s concourse.

Incognito or exposed of face, attendees let the good times roll.

The young and talented got the attention of party-goers.

Masks were available for purchase, some simple, others elaborate.

A Carson Wentz autographed helmet was prominently featured on the auction block.

Nick Fole’s signed jersey would surely fetch some GREEN-back.

A plethora of enticing auction items were available; guests ponied up for a terrific cause.

Take a bow. And not just any bow … the beauty is laden with Swarovski crystals.

From L, Mayor Kenney’s girlfriend Letty Santarelli, the Mayor and UNCF President & CEO, Dr. Michael Lomax pose. Gritty gets around.

Ms. Cheney University Jaymi Phillips and Mr. Cheney University Nehemiah Revell are crown stand-outs.

Gritty masks make the most of photo ops.

Sharon Kozden poses with Mayor Jim Kenney and Gritty in his formal attire.

President and CEO, Philadelphia Tribune, Robert W. Bogle (at right), was one of the evening’s award recipients.

Champagne goddess layered in hoops of bubbly delights the crowd.

Impressed by champagne fountains? Grab a flute from this bejeweled and bedazzling creature in silver and gold and with a plume like a swan and be impressed anew.