Howard's home run means some fine dining for $1,000 Payoff winner

Martin Brown always wanted to go to Ruth's Chris Steak House in Center City, but always had more prudent ways to spend his money.

However, thanks to Ryan Howard's fourth-inning home run last night, Brown can go ahead and make reservations.

Howard's blast off the leftfield foul pole made Brown, of Elkins Park, the latest $1,000 winner in the Daily News Home Run Payoff contest.

First he'll get his car inspected, then fill it with gas and then head down to Ruth's Chris.

"I'll get a nice porterhouse steak, a baked potato with sour cream and chives, and a glass of wine, of course," Brown said chuckling. "I'll let them recommend a brand."

The Phils' recent offensive explosions have left several Daily News readers eating prime cuts lately. Brown was our third $1,000 winner over the last nine games and seventh of the season.

Six other contestants won Phillies Gift Packs last night. The list:

Frank Nettis, Philadelphia

Brian Flaherty, Philadelphia

Tim Young, Philadelphia

Arthur Esterling, Philadelphia

Dorothy Opitz, Philadelphia

Bonnie Gold, Philadelphia

The Daily News pays $1,000 for a home run hit in the Payoff inning and $10,000 for a grand slam. Contestants whose batters fail to hit a home run receive a gift pack, which includes a variety of Phillies-related items.

This season, the Daily News has paid out $7,000. You can hear the Home Run Payoff inning during each Phillies broadcast on WPHT (1210-AM). *