Phillies Winter Banquet |

I don’t have a lot to add to Dan’s previous post(s). I echo his sentiment: improvements were made, and the Sands Events Center did a great job. Sure, I heard a couple “I remember DeSales…” laments, but overall an excellent venue and and excellent evening. The bartenders and servers couldn’t have been better, or more professional. Kudos to them! As Dan said, the butler passed hors d’oeuvres were a highlight. Airborne rogue lens caps were a hoot. A good time was had by all. Special thanks to the folks at Philly Pretzel for the help filling our table. Also to Dan, Jason, and Cheryl for the support I needed to push ahead with the table reservation early.

A couple criticisms: I would have liked to have the bar open on the upper level–saving me the trip downstairs to the Visions Bar. The auction items were VERY expensive (but then, this helps IronPigs Charities, so not so bad..) And, …..golly, I can’t think of anything else.

If it’s 2015, or almost, and you found this post, thinking about going. Here’s what you need to know:

Beer, House Wine, and Coke soft drinks are complimentary. Mixed drinks are very expensive. ($12 for mine and it’s not like I ordered Pappy or Louis. Maybe I don’t go out enough. Also, get off my lawn.)
Go early. Make sure you can get in at 5PM or 6PM or whatever time your ticket allows. it’s a fun time and I’m sure you’ll find someone you know.
It’s not too late. I think we were done around 10PM. Last year I had to leave early because of an emergency, but actually didn’t miss that much. Take the kiddos. I know it’s a school night, but it’s worth it.
Reserve early. The earlier you commit, the closer your table will be. I think. Whatever. Just go.
You might not get that much contact with the players. But, keep vigilant. They did walk through the bar area before the banquet. And, they did mingle a bit during the live auction. Some years, they’ve been somewhat available afterwards. Remember, these guys are Phillies now, not IronPigs…
As Dan said, the food was MUCH better this year. But, you’re not going for the dinner; you’re going for the baseball part. Lower your expectations and take full advantage of the excellent appetizers. If it’s that big a deal, eat at Emeril’s and walk over after. Dinner for 1,100 is a difficult task.
If you’re really into it: stay over. Get a room in the hotel, do some gambling after the banquet, have a nightcap and relax. Who needs to go to work on Friday, anyway? 😉

And now, Cheryl’s photos. Enjoy: