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Pixs: The Good Gala – 2024

Jessica Blondel and Jamie Chenega

Let the Fall Social Season Begin: Last night I attended two events. Global Philadelphia’s 2024 World Heritage City Celebration at the Crystal Tea Room, which I will write about next week, and The Good Gala at Union Trust. Both events were Finley Catering spaces.

Established in Philadelphia in 2019, Friends for Good (FFG) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) social philanthropic organization bringing together young professionals with a commitment to community service.

Laila Imam, Dayna Sobanko and Michele Voltz

Supporting and assisting unhoused individuals around Philadelphia has been one of our important areas of focus since 2019. Providing access to food security, clothing and mental health assistance has been something we’ve been proud to provide our partners with – Friends for Good

Doug Foulkes of Bazaarvoice and Joanna Joye
Vanya Sax, Frank Criniti, DJ Smooth and Michael Wynne – Smooth Entertainment
Eric Visnov and Hannah Krupa, ChitChat “It Girl “One To Watch” 10 years ago, Hannah is now pursuing her dreams in NYC, but stopped by last nights gala to sing a few songs for the worthy cause.
Alexandra Hussain and Cassidy Sheppard
Vanya Sax doing his thing
Lisa Washington, Samaya Brown, Nyashe Felder and Teneasha Billingsley
Ali Volpe and Mina Massaro, MD.
Mike Giangiordano, Helen Liu Gerhad and Alexandira Bilder
Brooke Storms, and Peter Mastrogiacomo , his company Graysonky was a sponsor the event, Zuna and Scott Cohen, both couples are long time PhillyChitChat readers. It was so nice to be out and about and see everyone again.
The Fords: Janine, Wayne and Ryan. Ryan is the Director, Marketing and Operations at Warrington Country Club. I’ve photographed a few events at his scenic venue.
Friends for Good: The Good Gala was formal cocktail attire and attended by over 300 people.

If you didn’t see your photo here, you might see it in the November issue of Philly Style Magazine.

Have a great weekend. Follow me on IG for up to the minute social scenes and stories. Socially yours, HughE

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Centennial Celebration

Fairmount Park Conservancy’s 13th Annual Centennial Celebration at FDR Park

On Wednesday, April 24, Fairmount Park Conservancy hosted its 13th annual Centennial Celebration with a sneak preview of FDR Park’s Welcome Center. The dinner brought together Conservancy community leaders, partners, donors, and award recipients for an evening of celebration in support of Philadelphia’s parks.

JD Kelly and Alexandra Kelly
Cheryl Binswanger, Anna Brinks and Dorothy Binswanger
Mike Dunn, Sam Gorodetzer, Keanu Ibarrondo, and Mackenzie Hockensmith
Shayna Harvey and JR Harvey
Eathan Blades and Shannon Wink

Guests were treated to an evening featuring delicious food, a captivating performance by Batala Philly , music by DJ Valentin (who performs for the Conservancy’s free bachata and salsa lessons in FDR Park),

Connor Barwin, former Eagles player and founder of Make The World A Better Place,
U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, Councilmember Nina Ahmad and Maura McCarthy, Chief Executive Officer Fairmount Park Conservancy
Mike Dunn, Sam Gorodetzer, Keanu Ibarrondo, and Mackenzie Hockensmith

A special congratulations to the honorees, PMorgan Chase, which received the Centennial Award for Corporate Stewardship, and the Southeast Asian Market, which received the 2024 John K. Binswanger Park Champion award. 

Guests enjoyed a sit down dinner

“We want to continue that legacy of making sure all young people throughout the city of Philadelphia regardless of everyone’s neighborhood or ZIP codes, have a safe haven and enjoy themselves.” – Council President Kenyatta Johnson

Thanks for the sneak peek of the renovated Welcome Center. The completed project will include the transformation of the existing stables into a 4,000 SF café and the creation of a 6,700 SF multi-purpose event space overlooking Pattison Lagoon that will include public restrooms, public courtyard with three food vendors, staffed information center for bike rentals and park permit sign-ups, and community event and meeting spaces.

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The Wardrobe VIP Party

The Wardrobe, a mission-driven nonprofit organization focused on eliminating clothing insecurity, curbing fashion waste, and empowering people for success, hosted its largest annual fundraiser “The VIP Party,” on Monday, June 10, at Rivers Casino.

The event was emceed by Delaware County native Leah Cevoli, a multi-hyphenate creative best known for voicing characters on the Emmy award-winning cartoon Robot Chicken and her work on the HBO hit series Deadwood. Leah is currently in town producing the feature film, Delco: The Movie. 

The Wardrobe is a mission-driven nonprofit organization focused on eliminating clothing insecurity, curbing fashion waste, and empowering people for success.

Elana Chasan, Paige Wolf and Nicole Martin

Laura Vaughn and Gianna Cettei
Many McClennen, Melissa Novak, Kate Carlie and Laura Reed

Guests arrived, and enjoyed an hour long cocktail party with a buffet before settling down for the program and an exciting game of bingo.

Sheri K. Cole. Executive Director, discussed how to support the Programs, as well as  The Wardrobe locations in Philadelphia (413 N. 4th Street) and Delaware County (62 West Marshall Road, Upper Darby) are open Monday-Saturday from 11-6 p.m. for shopping and client appointments. In Chester County, we are open in Kennett Square (345 Scarlett Road) and at the Exton Square Mall (2nd floor near Boscov’s) Tuesday-Thursday from 11-6 p.m.  Clothing donations are accepted during open hours. Visit www.wardrobepa.org to learn how to donate and shop to support your community.

Veronica McKee cheers to the 2 keys she bought for $100 each, in hopes of winning top prizes in one of the surprise boxes.

Kris Derewicz, Nina Markey, The Wardrobe Board President and Paul Sopher all of Littler
Riley Mock and Kade Deeton

Best Dressed: Rhonda Richardson, was noted for being one of the best dressed of the evenings. She got her outfit from The Wadrobe!! Great choice!!

If the key fits… The first winner of the $100 key reacts to the lock opening, as Sheri Cole cheers. Each box contained prizes worth more than $200 up to $1000. Another great event, see you next year!!

Receive Clothing:  Although most participants are referred by our Community Partners, individuals in need are welcome to use our Open Access program to receive the clothing they need at no cost.  Information on how to get clothing or sign up as a Community Partner is available at www.wardrobepa.org/services.  

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The Big Story: Jim Gardner Co Hosts No Name Pops Garden Party

Co-chairs Peter Dean, Molly Shepard, Amy Goldman, Jim Gardner, and Mary Stengel Austen

Thursday evening June 13, Jim Gardner and Amy Goldman along with co-hosts, Molly Sheppard and Peter Dean, Mary and Peter Austen and the Honorable Michael and Lisa Nutter hosted friends and supporters of the No Name Pops at the Goldman’s home

Alyssa Pagano, Austin Berner, Keith and Lauren Obaza

Founded in 2023, the former and future musicians of the Philly Pops created the No Name Pops due to an absence of music in Philadelphia. Since then, they have performed over 40 times, 12 times at the Kimmel Center, and with over 20 of them being free programs to the public.

Nick Cobb and Barbara Cobb
Broadway’s Dee Roscioli and Hugh Panaro with Ardmore’s Kathy Hirsch-Pasek and Jeff Pasek, parents of composer Benj Pasek, Jim Gardner and Amy Goldman

The No Name Pops is committed to being a healthy, patron first organization, reflecting the City of Philadelphia and serving the community.

Jim Gardner, board member and host, with Connie and Sam Katz
Former Mayor Michael Nutter and Diane Semingson, Board President Avenue of The Arts
Michael Kellerman, incoming President, Sharla Feldscher, board member, Aronte Bennett, incoming VP

The No Name Pops recently announced it has entered into discussions with Peter Nero’s family to be able to perform under the Philly Pops trademark and carry on Peter Nero’s legacy.  Both the orchestra and the Nero family look forward to the day that Philadelphia’s proud tradition can officially be reborn under the name that Peter Nero made famous

Patty and Bernie Prazenica (GM of 6abc), Valerie Gay, Phila’s Arts and Culture Leader, Fran Dunphy, America’s College Basketball Coach
Matthew Koveal, Exec Dir of the Non Name Pops, with 6abc legends – Dave Roberts and Jim Gardner
Senator Nikil Saval with sons shares support for No Name Pops

The No Name Pops performing at the garden party.

Broadway stars: Hugh Panaro and Dee Roscioli Perform

Thanks to Sharla Feldshur & Bachrach Photography for providing the photos from this event which I couldn’t attend as I was already booked. I always enjoy the No Name Pops concerts, and look forward to supporting them. If you’d like to support them. please consider a donation HERE>

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Great Stages Gala Marian Anderson Celebration

Senator Vincent Hughes, Council President Kenyatta Johnson, Mayor Cherelle Parker, Marian Anderson’s niece Ginette DePreist (who was married to Anderson’s nephew, noted muscian James DePreist) and Matias Tarnopolsky president and CEO of The Philadelphia Orchestra Association at the dedication of the Marian Anderson Hall

The Kimmel Center’s Verizon Hall was renamed Marian Anderson Hall at a re-dedication ceremony Saturday afternoon, which was declared Marian Anderson Day in the city and the commonwealth.

The announcement to change the name of the hall was made in February following a generous donation of $25 million to the Philadelphia Orchestra and Kimmel Center Inc. by Leslie Anne Miller and her husband, Richard B. Worley, who are well-respected figures in the arts community. However, rather than retaining the naming rights, they decided to honor Anderson by renaming the hall after her.

In the evening the Great Stages Gala started with a black-tie donor reception on the Academy of Music stage at 6 PM prior to the 8 PM concert in Marian Anderson Hall at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.

This is the 2nd annual Great Stages Gala, a new celebration created last year which unites the traditions of the Academy of Music Anniversary Concert and Ball with the Kimmel Cultural Campus Gala (now known as Ensemble Arts Philly ).

Marian’s great great niece Isabella DePreist Sullivan and great niece Jennifer DePreist (her father was James DePreist)
Baird and Anne Standish
Vivian Rowe and Patsy Rowe
Albert Zuger, Alpha Zeta Metals and Sasha Suda, director and CEO of the Philadelphia Art Museum.
Damien and Suzanne Ghee
Sharonda Robinson, LaFawn Davis, Sherise Bright and Vicki Baker
The Schaeffers, Katie, Adele and Tony
Barbara Adams, Michelle Wherry, Daughters of American Revolution (DAR) and Karen Bachelor, DAR
Steph Humphries, Dani Rose, Anne Ewers, Isabel Lowrey Brouhard and Nicole Smith
Brittany Webb and Mari Shaw, who I just saw at the Wilma Theater the evening before on opening night of Hilma.

around 7:45pm, guests headed over to the newly named Marian Anderson Hall at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, accompanied by a drum line from Camden NJ.

Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake is president of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation standing in from of Marian Anderson outfits loaned to the Kimmel Center for the celebration.

The influence of the Philadelphia-born contralto Marian Anderson, an extraordinarily talented singer and one of America’s most exceptional artists, cannot be emphasized enough, particularly considering the profound impact racial discrimination had on her career. Despite her undeniable abilities, Anderson’s path was significantly affected by racial prejudice.

At 8:00 PM that evening, GRAMMY®, Emmy®, and Golden Globe® award–winning and Academy Award®–nominated artist, actor, and producer Queen Latifah hosted the Great Stages Concert honoring Marian Anderson. The celebration will be the first concert to take place in the newly named hall.

The evening featured performances by Music and Artistic Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin and The Philadelphia Orchestra

with soprano Angel Blue, actress and singer Audra McDonald (not pictured here), soprano Latonia Moore, and jazz pianist Marcus Roberts.

Richard Worley, Former Georgia State Representative Stacey Abrams and Leslie Anne Miller.

After the concert, there was a speakeasy after party held in the Perelman Theater

Musical artists Ramon Jones, Dani Allen, Aaron Lewis, Laurin Talese and Kourtney Johnson were on hand to close out the night of fun.
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JEVS Human Services Gala

Rev. Bonnie Camarda, The Salvation Army, Evan Benn, Senior Director of Special Projects & Communications @phillyinquirer
. Natalie Barndt, JEVS Chief of Staff, Heather Keafer, Chief of Communications and External Affairs at JEVS. and Cynthia Figueroa, President and CEO of JEVS Human Services (JEVS),

JEVS Human Services organized its second annual Grow with JEVS fundraising event at the iconic Water Works Philadelphia on May 15th. The occasion united over 300 sponsors, volunteers, employees, and public figures for an evening filled with joy and motivation. The event successfully generated over $350,000 in funds to bolster JEVS programs. (Thanks Andre Flewellen for shooting this event)

Ari Borthakur, Ana Ramos Hernandez, and Darren A. Spielman

The presenting sponsor for the evening was Citizens. “Citizens has been a proud partner of JEVS for over 20 years,” said Dan Fitzpatrick, Mid-Atlantic President of Citizens. “We share in their vision to help communities thrive by equipping individuals with resources like job training and financial education to achieve economic success.”

Bill Bronson, Jacqueline Flynn, and Tom Hartmann
Casey and Cooper Kio
Patrick Clancy, President and CEO at Philadelphia Works, Inc., Sharmain Matlock-Turner is the CEO of the Urban Affairs Coalition. and Dan Fitzpatrick, Citizens Bank President
Kai, Katie ,Rick and Trey Shinholster

The funds raised from Grow with JEVS will support nearly 40 programs across Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey. Programming areas include workforce development, career & technical education, services to people with disabilities, and in-home care for older adults.

JEVS ambassador, Revena Washington, shared her inspiring testimony about how the nonprofit has transformed her life, as well as thousands of others. “I am here to say that we all have our struggles, but for me, the struggle is over. JEVS has given me the tools, and the resources to better my life. The opportunities at JEVS are abundant.

We come to work each day ready and willing to support our participants in their endeavors, while helping them to realize their vision and dreams,” said Washington who was met by applause and tears from the audience.

Nigel Bowe, JEVS and Antoinette Lee, JEVS
Gavin, Lisa, Brett and Austin Studner,with Phil Moran
Jeff and Laurie Franz, Kelly Mosteller, Jared Harris, Emerson Freer,
Donna and Michael Harris

ABOUT JEVS

JEVS Human Services (JEVS) has an 80+ year history in working with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and economic security. JEVS’ vision is to help every person achieve personal independence and fulfillment. Our mission and vision reflect JEVS’ long-standing history of helping people connect to opportunity and cultivate independence.

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Spent Easter in Philly

This is not an April Fools Day Joke. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce flew into Philly airport ie Atlantic Aviation, on Easter morning at about 9AM. They presumably headed to Jason and Kylie’s house in Haverford to spend the day with family.
The “End Game” couple then headed to the Four Seasons Hotel to spend the night (When touring Taylor always stays at the Ritz, but Travis, who was last in town for his brothers retirement announcement, stayed at the Four Season’s. When she toured last summer she did have JG George stay open late for dinner after the Saturday night concert), They flew out this morning around 10am.

The final destination today is Hollywood for the IHeart Radio Awards show tonight; their plane touches down around 12:30pm pacific time. Taylor is leading in the nominations. Tonight might be their official Red Carpet debut together. They did appear on the gold carpet at the Gucci after party on Oscar Night, but that was for a private event.

Today Show: This morning did you catch Kylie Kelce on The Today Show chatting about Eagles Autism Foundation this morning . Such a good interview, lots of Jason chat as well, she is such a supporter of his -All cards are on the table, he can do whatever he sets his mind to. He is so talented she told Hoda & Savanah. Kylie did not mention Taylor or Travis’ Easter dinner appearance. All that was mentioned of loved up couple was it was fun to see them together.

Then everyone headed out to the plaza where more about the work Kylie and the Eagles do on behalf of the Eagles Autism Foundation.

April Is Autism Awareness Month and the Philadelphia Eagles are inviting fans, arts and culture enthusiasts, autism supporters, and the community to experience a new gallery adorned exclusively with Eagles-themed masterpieces. The Eagles’ art gala,Green Is the Heart Inspired,” will run from Thursday, April 11, to Sunday, April 14, at the award-winning Arch Enemy Arts gallery in Philly’s historic Old City District.

Speaking of former Eagles Players.

The Ertz Family Foundation (Julie and Zach Ertz) will host a benefit concert for House of Hope featuring Matt Quinn of indie rock band Mt. Joy, and surprise guests, at Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia on Friday, April 12.

Tickets went on sale today exclusively at brooklynbowl.com/philadelphia. A preshow package including a meet and greet, cocktails, light bites, bowling and photo opportunities, are also available.

House of Hope, a project supported by The Ertz Family Foundation, provides education, technology, and nutrition products and services to combat the ongoing food insecurity, gun violence, and drug use Philadelphia is experiencing.

Breakthrough’s Annual Spring Soirée 2024
Only 50 Tickets Left. Come Through...I will be photographing this event.

After a pause that left many yearning for its delightful aromas and communal vibrancy, the much-loved Red Gravy Cook-Off is making a triumphant return, stirring excitement among food enthusiasts and community members alike. Organized by the East Passyunk Crossing Civic Association, this cherished event promises to rekindle the spirit of community and culinary excellence that has been its hallmark.

I hope you had a wonderful Easter, for those who celebrate, as well as a time to reconnect with friends and family. This year was the first time in 14 years I didn’t attend the Easter Parade on South Street. I love it, and I will return, but I was excited to try something different this year and that was enjoying a lovely brunch with friends hosted by TV personality Brian Balthazar (r) and Dennis St. Germain (standing), real estate agent to the stars, but he’d never tell you that. (They moved to our area during the pandemic, here’s their home feature on The Today Show.) Rounding out this photo are my friends Rich and Jimmy Eib, owner of 1600 Spruce Interior Design & Home

The Cherry Trees seem to bloom earlier and earlier each year. I hope you had a chance to see them this weekend. They were so beautiful and bountiful. I’m heading into the busy Spring Social Season, but I am going to work hard at not getting overwhelmed and will post here at least 3 times a week.

Socially Yours, HughE

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Photos: Beer on the Pier Caring People Alliance

Caring People Alliance hosted its second annual Beer on the Pier at Cherry Street Pier on October 28. It will feature beers from 16 breweries.

Dori Senick, Caitlin Butrica, Jerry Macdonald, President & Ceo, Tanya Steinberg and Beth Grossman all of Caring People Alliance
Eric Taylor, HR Caring People Alliance pours Tröegs, one of 16 breweries on hand for tastings , With Halloween coming up I asked Eric what the scariest movie he saw- Lepercaun.
Hey Yards!!
Lois Hansen and Laura Fedock are ready for Halloween. Lois is giving out full size candy bars, Laura tells me the scariest movie she’s ever seen are all the Chuckie movies.
Councilperson Mark Squilla and Folcroft Mayor Fran DiCicco
At Caring People Alliance, we know that raising kids takes a village — so does managing your family’s needs, budget, work, and a million other things that life throws your way. That is why we are here to help. We provide convenient and responsive support to address issues and circumstances that threaten our communities’ wellbeing.
Russ Fleisher and Scott Cohen
Caring People Alliance runs a teen program, here are the teens in their store at Beer on the Pier

Guests enjoying an unseasonably warm day, temps hit the 80F and it was a wonderful lazy Saturday raising money for a good cause.

Cherry Street Pier food vendors were open and folks enjoyed delicious fare.
Hank Flynn, FOX29 was on hand to emcee, walked around and chit chatted with guests. You can catch him on Good Day Monday through Friday.
There were great silent auction items.

It was a beautiful day. A great event. You have to go next year. There was a band, and dancing. Perfect day. Thanks for all you do Caring People Alliance. I love that Philly has so many incredible, helpful organization. They could use your support, financially, or people to volunteer. And if you need their services head here

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Photos: Jewish Federation’s Lion of Judah

First an important message from Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia: Once again, on a holy day of the Jewish calendar, the people of Israel have come under attack. Once again, the brave military forces of the State of Israel are responding and will defend our beloved Jewish state.  And, once again, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia will act immediately and comprehensively to support our brothers and sisters as they defend Israel. INFO & Donate

In September The Jewish Federation hosted The “Annual Lion of Judah” event. It’s an associated with the Lion of Judah society, which is a recognition program within the Jewish Federation system. The Lion of Judah program is designed to honor and celebrate women who make significant contributions to their local Jewish communities and support various philanthropic efforts.

Lindsay Davidman, Sherrie Savett, Susanna Lachs Adler, Judy Newman, Miriam (Mimi) Schnerirov, Shelby Zitelman, Ande Adelman, Gail Norry, and Tracey Gordon.

Women who participate in the Lion of Judah program make substantial annual donations to their local Jewish Federations, and they often come together at an annual event or gathering to network, celebrate their accomplishments, and learn about the impact of their philanthropic work.

Sarah Lefkowitz and Karen Kramer

A woman who is a Lion of Judah can endow her annual gift to the Jewish Federation of $5,000 or more by establishing a LOJE, ensuring that her support for the Jewish community continues even after she is gone. A Lion of Judah creates a LOJE by establishing a minimum fund of $100,000 or more in her name during her lifetime or by putting a bequest in her will.

Julie Von Spreckelsen and Pamela Adelman

By endowing her gift, she joins a long honor roll of women who have elected to take this step to sustain Jewish life. A Lion may choose to enhance her Lion of Judah pin by adding a flame, known in Hebrew as or l’atid, to recognize this eternal commitment.

Rachel Schweartz and and Judy Newman

The “Lion of Judah” is a symbolic term often used in the context of Judaism and also within certain Christian traditions. In Judaism, the term “Lion of Judah” represents one of the titles given to the biblical patriarch Judah, one of the twelve sons of Jacob.

Carol Landis, Sherrie R Savett and Rachel Porat

The “Lion of Judah” is used to symbolize strength, bravery, and leadership, often in a religious or cultural context.

Rebecca Baer, Shelby Zitelman and Allison Goodman
Jennifer M Brier and Michelle Levin
Heather Jacobsohn and Sherrie Spiegel
Allison Goodman and Michael Markman

Thanks to PCC team photographer Kathy Leister for shooting this event for us.

The name “Lion of Judah” is symbolic, representing strength, leadership, and a commitment to improving the world through charitable and philanthropic endeavors. The exact nature and details of the Annual Lion of Judah Event can vary from one Jewish Federation to another, but it typically involves recognition and appreciation of the contributions of women who are part of the Lion of Judah program.

(Jewish Philly)

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2023 Ball on the Square – Rittenhouse Square

The Ball on the Square celebrated it’s return with a sold out, excited glamorous crowd on September 28th. The gala returned to its more traditional format of a formal seated-dinner in a tented venue on the Square. The event committee was co-chaired by Wendy Rosen, Renee Tucci and Brian Emmons, members of Friends of Rittenhouse Square. The gala supplements state and city services to care for the park and its fountain, small structures, paths, and landscaping.

Robyn Morgan and Brian Emmons, Vice President – Southern Land Company. The Laurel on Rittenhouse Square is one of his latest projects. It has beautiful views of the City, and has rentals as well as condos available. Next year Michael Schulson will be opening another one of his popular restaurants there.
Dan Rosen, Paul Rosen and Wendy Rosen, president of Friends of Rittenhouse Square for 16 years until 2010, was one f the co-chairs of the evenings event.

Delicious dinner by Philadelphia – Catering and Events – Neuman’s Kitchen; Evantine Design did a spectacular job as usual with the decor, transforming the center square into a unique space with the police gazebo as a central focal point. The glass was frosted, with inspiring messages adorning it describing who uses the square, and how it is maintained.

Anthony Sembello and Lauren Beloff
Natalia Goblina and Allen King
Sam Audia, Michela Karrash, Client Development Officer – Glenmede; with Hollis Dana and Tyler Wilson : Just Married – May 27, 2023

The evening started with a well attended cocktail party, under the starry sky.

A big project happening now in the Square is the lawn restoration where the Knight Foundation has invested $160,000 over the next four years, Friends plan to fully restore over 140,000 square feet in this historic Square .

Larry McMichael, Chairman Dilworth Paxson LLP , Trish Wellenbach,, Chair of Jefferson Board and President and CEO, Please Touch Museum, PYO President, CEO & Music Director. Maestro Louis Scaglione and Jim Dever · President, Bank of America Greater Philadelphia
Fox29’s Shiba Russell and Jason Martinez
Scott Barnes – Director, Events & Hospitality – Comcast and Michelle Conron, Cashman & Associates
Dr. Nyree Dardarian, Sabrina Tamburino Thorne , Alisa Frederico and Lynsie Feinberg kick up their heels on the dance floor.
Oliver Badgio – Chief Brand Officer – Prime Steak Concepts (Steak 48, I’ll be forever grateful for the lovely dinner party they threw in my honor over the summer)
Mike Jerrick, Ray Evers, Sheila Hess, Rob Wasserman, Will Lewis and Frances Wang

Parks and Rec, an outstanding partner, helps us hang banners, fix electrical/lighting issues, remove dead trees, and maintain the fountain. They also staff the Park Rangers in the Guard House. The Streets Department hauls away the trash we bag and collect every day. – Doug Blonsky, in an interview with The Philadelphia Citizen.

The Young Friends of the Friends of Rittenhouse
June Armstrong, Operations Director of Friends of Rittenhouse, Cherelle Parker, proud mother and candidate for Mayor of Philadelphia, Laura LaRosa , Friends of Rittenhouse Board President and Garrett Snider, philanthropist
Anna Boni and Michael Boni, Esq. (before I was PhillyChitChat I was a paralegal for Michael Boni at Kohn Swift & Graf. We both left the firm, and went out on our own.)

Rittenhouse raised Megan Nicoletti and Billy Walsh newly engaged (160 days til their Palm Beach wedding) and partners in business at Serhant Pennsylvania.

Supermarket Power Couple: Jeff and Sandy Brown, own and operate Brown’s Super Stores, which includes 11 ShopRite supermarkets and two Fresh Grocers.
Aren Platt, Sr. Advisor to Cherelle Parker for Mayor and Jessica Platt, Vice President, Bellevue Strategies, Public Affairs & Strategic Communications
Megan Heaton and Joe Mastronardo
The Next Generation of Philanthropic Leaders: Scott Brown and Andrew Bergman

The Friends of Rittenhouse Square was created in 1976 to address the increasing gap between available city funding and the maintenance needs of Rittenhouse Square. With a mission to “preserve, protect, and beautify” the park, the Friends work in a public-private partnership with Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. The Friends fund and manage many programs and projects needed to sustain the Square. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Friends provide funding through membership, special events, private donations, sponsorships, and capital campaigns. Join Us