December 12^th was a frigid, blustery day in Pittsburgh, but spirits were running high at the annual CSF Pittsburgh Chapter Holiday Celebration. The event, held at the historic Pittsburgh Field Club, was decked out in full holiday regalia, including fresh garland, holiday wreaths and Christmas trees galore.

The event began with a cocktail hour on the club’s picturesque porch. Amid the holiday decorations and silent auction items, guests couldn’t help but notice a billiards table in the middle of the room. Anyone who knows Dr. Carson knows pool is one of his favorite activities. At the evening’s event, Dr. Carson was up for some tough competition. Tim “The Dragon” Chin, a professional artistic pool player for more than ten years, was on-hand to showcase his remarkable skills and challenge one of the night’s guests to a friendly competition. The winner of the drawing was Lisa Schmidtetter who quickly relinquished her chance to play to her husband, Gregg. Gregg opted to pair with Candy Carson while Dr. Carson and Tim Chin formed the opposing team. While Gregg and Candy were fierce competitors, ultimately it was Dr. Carson and Tim Chin who won the spirited game.

After the cocktail hour, guests were escorted into the ballroom for an enchanted evening. CSF Pittsburgh Chapter member Mary Krauland began the festivities by welcoming guests. Prior to dinner being served, Dr. Carson provided the evening’s invocation. While guests enjoyed their succulent dinner prepared by Chef Paul O’Toole, they were treated to the melodic sounds of the violin performed by Regina Givi. Regina has been studying the violin since she was seven years old and has performed solo and first violinist throughout her school years and post-graduate studies. The dinner was capped off by a rousing speech delivered by Dr. Carson.

After dinner, it was time to see who won the silent auction items. This year’s array of items included many unique articles including a painting by master artist John Del Monte, Steelers All Star Pro Bowl Jersey autographed by #86 Hines Ward and a Pittsburgh Penguins Jersey autographed by #28 Marcus Pettersson. Rosemarie Schuler, a longtime CSF supporter and Pittsburgh Chapter member, donated a holiday punch bowl, which is certain to serve as a centerpiece at family celebrations. 

After the close of the auction, guests mingled about with some pausing to watch Tim Chin perform trick shots. CSF supporters exited into the cold, wintery air knowing their donations are going to help the CSF continue its important mission of providing college scholarships to our future leaders and supporting the Ben Carson Reading Project, which helps elementary students become proficient and enthusiastic readers.

The holiday celebration would not have been possible without the leadership and guidance of Pittsburgh Chapter President Fran Donahue and chapter members: Jim Beck, Tom Donahue, Rich and Mary Krauland, Lora Kreps, Jerry and Patti Loyacona, Rosemarie Schuler and Kellee Shoskin. 

View photos from the event HERE