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Around Town With HughE

🍀 ChitChat: Lucky Duck Sets a Date, Starr Reveals the Name, MOA Opens

Ala Standard, Nicole Cashman and Wedding Walk

Congratulations to Nicole Cashman & Associates for her 25th Anniversary this year, for a fabulous party held last week at PAFA and being honored with Proclamations by the Mayor and City Council.

Something’s Cooking: For months, Rittenhouse regulars were convinced Stephen Starr was bringing high-end sushi to the former Devon Seafood Grill space. Not quite. Word on the Square kept pointing elsewhere, and now it’s official. Starr has installed signage confirming @thepelicanclubphiladelphia is headed to Rittenhouse. The Parthenon graphic gives it away, and the vibe leans unmistakably Mykonos with a wink to Petros the pelican. In modern Greek lore, Petros became the island’s beloved mascot after a fisherman rescued him in 1958. Big move, big buzz, and one more reason the Square stays interesting. ✨

Real Estate agent Navid Aberg reports a new eatery Lucky Duck Riverside Tavern, is opening next Wednesday March 18, on the ground-floor space at the RiverMark apartment complex at 501 N. Columbus Blvd. The 3,800-square-foot space has bay windows that open during the warmer months and offer panoramic views of the river and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. There will also be outdoor seating once the season turns, making it one to watch as spring hits the waterfront. 🦆✨

Monday night: A Taste of Democracy: An Evening at High Street with Ellen Yin and Dori Desautel Broudy

Join us in supporting Dr. Ala Stanford — physician, public health leader, and proud Democrat running to represent Philadelphia in Congress.

New and Unique: Philadelphia Wedding Walk: Mark your calendars for March 22, when the Philadelphia Wedding Walk debuts with a citywide, self guided experience designed for couples deep in planning mode. More than 150 of the region’s top vendors will transform venues and storefronts with styled spaces, tastings, entertainment, and thoughtful details that let guests truly imagine their big day before booking. With seamless shuttle transportation connecting stops across Philly, it feels less like a bridal expo and more like a beautifully curated afternoon out. Expect plenty of inspiration, polished presentations, and a lively scene wherever you land. 💍✨

This weekend goes full St. Patrick’s Day mode with the Erin Express bar crawl, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and plenty of other festivities across the city. And if green beer is not your jawn, Saturday also doubles as National Espresso Martini Day. A few highlights on the calendar, including the return of America’s largest Espresso Martini Crawl in Northern Liberties, landing just in time for the occasion. Save the date for Saturday, March 14, from 11 am to 4 pm. ☘️🍸✨

Step into the unexpected. ✨
The Ministry of Awe opens Saturday, March 14 at 27 N. 3rd St. in Old City, inviting visitors to wander through six stories of immersive, imagination-fueling art created by over 100 artists . Around every corner is something playful, surprising, delightfully decadent, with clever nods to the building’s former life as a bank tucked into the experience. You could spend hours exploring and still discover something new with each visit. Creativity will also happen on a rotating basis.

The project, led by Philadelphia artist Meg Saligman and brought to life with more than 100 local artists, performers, and designers, is awe inspiring and unmistakably Philly. It feels created by Philadelphians for Philadelphians, not a traveling pop up marketing gallery. We are lucky to have visionaries like the team behind this space. “At this bank, we trade in curiosity, imagination, and awe,” Saligman told me on Instagram Stories. “Our bank is about exploring the true meaning of currency and value and completely redefining it. Whatever you bring, we will welcome and value it.”

Another busy social season has kicked off.

Socially Yours, xoxo HughE

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Around Town With HughE Philly To Do

Preview Party: The Forgotten Freedom

The Forgotten Freedom: American Assembly at 250 made a powerful debut at the National Liberty Museum with an exclusive preview that blended history, culture, and civic pride in a way that felt especially timely as Philadelphia looks toward 2026.

Costantino Spinosa, Director of Museum Experience of National Liberty Museum, Dr. Alaine Arnott, President and CEO of the National Liberty Museum and Wilbert Montgomery, American former professional football player who was a running back for nine years with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Detroit Lions of the National Football League

Guests were among the first to experience the museum’s ambitious new exhibition series exploring one of the nation’s most essential yet often overlooked rights, the freedom of assembly.

Created for America’s 250th anniversary, the immersive presentation unfolds across three interconnected exhibitions, tracing how collective moments, from the founding era to modern pop culture, have shaped the American story.

The preview offered a sweeping narrative through artifacts and storytelling that connected the nation’s earliest gatherings with iconic cultural flashpoints such as Woodstock and Live Aid, alongside influential figures including Jackie Robinson and Michael Jordan, whose impact extended far beyond sports.

John Colabelli, Publisher. of Philadelphia Style Magazine, Brian Tierney, CEO of Brian Communications and Ron Jaworski known to the world as JAWS, is a former professional American football quarterback and a notable sports analyst, best known for his long career in the NFL, particularly as the starting quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles
Beau McCall shows Dr Matt Kenyatta his art as Souleo looks on

Contemporary artworks added depth and immediacy, prompting reflection on how communities continue to assemble and advocate today.

Bill Carroll, ChiChit Carroll and Michael Milborn
Dr Nicholas L. DePace, MD, (Who operates the DePace Sports Museum) Honorable Judge Jacquelyn Frazier-Lyde and Joseph M. Marrone, Esquire
The Kelce Brothers Jerseys are on display

See a 1936 Olympic Torch, a Taylor Swift ‘Eras’ Tour fan jacket, game-worn jerseys from Jason and Travis Kelce, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Jalen Hurts

Theresa and Derek Clark

Ken Goldin, Founder & CEO Goldin Auctions lent the preview party an original

Declaration of Independence document from New Hampshire. That was so cool to see in person, and was only displayed at the preview party.

Christy Adams, Joe Lyde, Joe Fraizer Foundation and George Bochetto

Guests enjoyed elevated bites from 12th Street Catering, inventive cocktails by mixologist Sean Clarke, and live music from Bachelor Boys Band, while a lively silent auction supported the museum’s ongoing educational mission.

aaa

Stylish, engaged, and clearly energized by the storytelling, attendees lingered throughout the galleries, reflecting on the enduring relevance of assembly in American life. As Philadelphia prepares to take center stage for the Semiquincentennial, The Forgotten Freedom: American Assembly at 250 feels not only thoughtful and visually compelling, but deeply aligned with the civic moment the city is about to embrace. To learn more information about the National Liberty Museum (321 Chestnut St.) and its latest exhibit, visit libertymuseum.org

See additional photos in CBSPhilly and in an upcoming issue of Phila Style Magazine.

Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Dancing for Dreams

What an unforgettable evening at Dancing for Dreams, benefiting Methodist Services, held January 31 at The Bellevue. The Grand Ballroom shimmered with candlelight and conversation as Philadelphia’s philanthropic and social set arrived dressed to impress.

Christopher Foster and Kathrine J. Martin President & Chief Executive Officer

Methodist Services is a long-standing Philadelphia nonprofit that supports children, families, and older adults through a range of social service programs.

Allison Prushninski, Caroline Yosef, Jonathan Cabreia and Jennifer Kardon

Inside, the energy was electric as six dedicated community dancers (including Caroline Yosef, above) took the stage in a spirited charity dance-off that blended theatrical flair with heartfelt purpose, each raising funds to support the children and families served by Methodist Services.

Meg Wright, Erin O’Hearn, and Rachel Elwood,

The six standout dancers who brought both heart and heat to the floor were Jermaine Jenkins, Erin O’Hearn (yes that one), Caroline Yosef, Bridget Silver, Marina Lesser, Rebecca Seidenberg and Eve Turner, each stepping up not only with showmanship but with a shared commitment to raising funds for Methodist Services.

Guests enjoyed a delicious Cesaphe cocktail hour with seafood, meatballs and a generous cheese /meat charcuterie before guests headed into a sit down dinner and dancing to the tunes by DJ Johnny Looch

Mariel Claire, Kiera Conklin, Bridget Silber and Rose Frazier

Jermaine Jenkins and Lindsay Furman Alexander

Ashlee Hollis, Elijah Hollis of Helms Creative Studio, with George and Garden Wellington

Diane DiCicco, Carmelina Beradi, Lynsie Feinberg and Michelle Lam

Event producer and nonprofit consultant Lynsie Feinberg, who collaborates with organizations including Methodist Services,

assembled a generous and talented group who truly rose to the occasion, delivering a lively and heartfelt night of entertainment for a great cause.

The night built to a thrilling finale when Rebecca Seidenberg and Eve Turner brought the room to its feet and were named co-winners for Best Dancer after a show-stopping tie.

An extra round of applause went to Rebecca, who also earned Highest Fundraiser honors, with Bridget Silver finishing a close second in a moving show of community generosity. A total of $85ks was raised for the wonderful services they provide. See you next year at Dancing for Dreams for Methodist Services!!

Look for additional photos on CBSPhilly and the April issue of Main Line Today!!

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Around Town With HughE

Recap: Cashman & Associates Celebrates 25 Years of Elevating Philadelphia

Last night, Philadelphia’s movers and shakers gathered to celebrate a milestone for one of the city’s most influential marketing and communications firms as Nicole Cashman toasted 25 years of Cashman & Associates. Founded in 2001, the agency has grown from a one-woman startup into one of the region’s most recognized lifestyle marketing powerhouses, known for shaping the narrative around Philadelphia’s hospitality, arts, fashion, real estate, nonprofit and civic scenes.

Longtime friend and colleague, Jazelle Jones , City of Philadelphia’s City Representative and Director of the Office of Special Events with Nicole Cashman. For over 20 years Jazelle has produced amazing, large scale events behind the scenes and work on many of them with Nicole Cashman. Here she presents Nicole with the City’s highest honor – The Liberty Bell!!
Constellation Culinary Group

Over the past quarter century, Cashman has built a reputation as the go-to strategist for brands and institutions looking to connect with discerning audiences.

Through strategic PR campaigns, experiential events, influencer engagement and community partnerships, her team has consistently delivered high-visibility results while helping position Philadelphia as a vibrant, forward-thinking destination.

Wayne Shulick operated the Denim Lounge from 2006 to 2012 and Barry Gutin – GuestCounts Hospitality, who operates Cuba Libre, and formerly Brulee Catering and the iconic nightclub Shampoo

Nicole Cashman was the PR in charge of the opening party for Denim, and had the cool idea to send the invites frozen in a block of ice. 

Philadelphia inquirer Icons: Mike Klein and Elizabeth Wellington

When I first started PhillyChitChat, my mentor Thom Cardwell, Executive Director Phila LGBTQ Film Festival, introduced me to Michael Klein, and I began contributing party photos and celebrity moments to his Phila Inquirer column – Inqlings (retired column in 2011) . He opened doors I never imagined, including front-row access at major NYC events. One night he got me into a much coveted Nicole Cashman’s party, the opening of G Lounge, and the rest was history. Michael and Nicole took me under their wings and helped me find my place in the rooms and on the red carpets covering the moments Philadelphia cared about.

Davida Janae, @vidafashionista and Jordan Price, writes on her IG Food Sweat and Beers – boundless appreciation and congratulations to @cashmanassoc @ncashnrich for 25 years of telling the stories of our city! I’ll never take for granted being invited to SOME of the rooms where it happens – and not only just for the snacks. But man… those snacks were next level.
@Jenniferlynspeaks, @brendaonboard, @whatsonmimismind @21sparksfly @milliephanatic and @toitimeblog

Nicole Cashman was among the first in Philadelphia to recognize the power of digital voices, launching one of the city’s earliest influencer programs and integrating creators into major campaigns, openings and events well before influencer marketing became standard practice.

Lynne Hart, Melanie Johnson and Elka Murrillo

Two former City Representatives were at Cashbash 25, Sheila Hess and Melanie Johnson, who served under Mayor Michael Nutter and was the first City Representative I ever met. Seeing her brought me right back to 2008, when I first met her at the opening of Stephen Starr’s Butcher & Singer in Philadelphia, one of the earliest big events I covered for Cashman & Associates (who have represented Starr Restaurants more than 20 years). I was still finding my footing then, camera in hand, wide-eyed and curious, and moments like that helped shape my path covering the city I love.

Pretty in Pink – Michelle Conron Cucci, Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff at Cashman & Associates with the Cashman Girls look on as Nicole addresses friends and family.

The agency’s vision has helped shape campaigns and celebrations across industries, from restaurant openings and hospitality launches to civic initiatives and major cultural programs. Her client roster over the years has included brands and organizations including as I mentioned Starr Restaurants, also Visit Philadelphia, Comcast, the Philadelphia Orchestra, Make A Wish, the Liberty Museum, Work to Ride, Hard Rock Casino, and the Friends of Rittenhouse Square, among many other

Alissa Frederico and Sabrina Tamburino Thorne
Renee Freeman, Claire Rose, Nicole Cashman, Joan Pileggi and Joan Spain (Photo by Lisa Lake/Getty Images for Cashman & Associates)

Cashman has built a reputation as the go-to strategist for brands and institutions looking to connect with discerning, tastemaking audiences.

Photographer extraordinaire Andre Flewellen, nearly newlyweds: Ray Smeriglio, Comcast, Miguel Martinez-Valle, NBC10 and Keith Leaphart, Jefferson Health

The guest list reflected both Cashman’s reach and her reputation. Over the years she has cultivated relationships across media, hospitality, development, fashion, philanthropy and government, positioning herself as both connector and champion of the city’s creative economy

Legendary Journalists: Bobbie Booker,A.D. Amorosi (just legendary Henri David) and Stu Bykofsky
Chefs Billy Riddle and Jen Carroll with their treats from All Aboard Candy , see you Sunday at the Sisterly Love 5th Anniversary Dinner at the Four Seasons

Nicole Cashman played a meaningful role in helping shape my career as a photographer. She invited me to cover her events early on, opened doors, and along the way became both a mentor and a trusted friend. Over the years she has even hosted celebrations for PhillyChitChat, always generous with her support and encouragement. Just as importantly, she has consistently shown up for others, advocating for creatives, nonprofits and emerging voices across the city. That spirit of mentorship, loyalty and community building is at the heart of her legacy and a big reason so many came out to celebrate her milestone.

Thanks xoxo HughE

PS More photos to be seen on my Linkedin, Instagram, CBSPhilly and the May issue of Philly Style Magazine.

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Around Town With HughE

ChitChat: LGBTQ, Flowers, Food

Stevie Williams

Recently I was talking with my friends Amira and Jermaine about a photo I took at Love Park around 2000. Amira looked at it and said it reminded her of Stevie Williams. I shared it on Instagram and, amazingly, Stevie himself commented. After all these years, the photo and the skater were finally reunited. When I took the picture, someone nearby told me he was a notable skateboarder, but I never caught his name. I even went back to Love Park many times hoping to find him again and tried to recreate the shot, but I never could. Some moments really only happen once. The March Issue of Philly Mag dropped and features Stevie Williams as one of the 25 Most Philly Athletes

I think the shot might belong in my greeting card collection at The Ground Coffee Shop. They just launched their new spring menu too.

I just recently returned from Florida and visiting my mom in the Keys. I was lucky enough to do some bird-watching as well. Excited that March is nearly here and bird watching season begins again. I enjoyed the snow over the weekend, and it’s the kind we normally get, wet and it melts within days. Not like the nightmare ice snow we got in January.

Since returning from Florida, Philadelphia’s spring social season has officially kicked into high gear. A significant moment unfolded this week in the Gayborhood.

The new Pride Visitor Center opened at 12th and Locust Streets, adjacent to Knock. Meg Kane and the Signature 57 family, who have owned Knock for nearly two decades, generously dedicated part of the popular restaurant and bar to create Pennsylvania’s first LGBTQ+ visitor center.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro placed Wednesday’s ribbon cutting into historical perspective, noting that in 1682 William Penn arrived on a ship called Welcome, seeking religious freedom from persecution in England and helping lay the foundation for what would become Pennsylvania.

Tyrell Brown, Philly Pride 365 and Tami Sortman

The evening before the ribbon cutting, Tyrell Brown of Philly Pride 365 and Tami Sortman, President of Washington West, at Knock, with a sneak preview of the space.

Monday I went to the Flower Show at the Convention Center. I know I say this every year, but this year, the show was fantastic. It’s beautiful, thoughtful and smells great.

This year the Marketplace was moved to its own floor instead of being squeezed in with the exhibition displays. It turned out to be a great decision. There’s now plenty of room to browse the vendors while still giving visitors space to fully enjoy the exhibits. I spoke with several vendors in the new Marketplace and, while they said they missed some of the buzz of being on the exhibition floor, many told me their sales were actually better.

I ran into a PhillyChitChat reader at the Flower Show. I always love meeting the people who follow along. 😊 Follow me on my Instagram PhillyChitChat Also check out recent party photos on CBSPhilly.

Socially Yours HughE

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Around Town With HughE Philadelphia 2026

The 2026 MLB All-Star Week Needs You

The official announcement that Philadelphia would host the 2026 MLB All-Star Game was made on April 16, 2019 by Commissioner Rob Manfred at Independence Hall.

The 2026 game, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence, was further highlighted with a logo unveiling on July 18, 2025.

Be at Citizens Bank Park as Philadelphia takes the stage for the 2026 All-Star Week festivities! Events will take place at Citizens Bank Park and the Pennsylvania Convention Center from Saturday, July 11 through Tuesday, July 14.

The annual fan-fest, called the All-Star Village, will take place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center from Saturday, July 11 through Tuesday, July 14.

For events at Citizens Bank Ballpark, currently the events are as follows: Sunday, July 12, All-Star Futures Game and a celebrity event; Monday, July 13, All-Star Workout Day & T-Mobile Home Run Derby; Tuesday, July 14, MLB All-Star Game

All-Star Sunday – July 12

  • All-Star Sunday brings together the future and the fun of baseball with two marquee events held back-to-back at Citizens Bank Park. The day begins with the All-Star Futures Game, showcasing the next generation of MLB stars, and concludes with MLBX, a fast-paced, 3-on-3 knockout competition featuring the game’s biggest personalities.
    • All-Star Futures Game (12 PM | Airs on NBC)
      • The All-Star Futures Game showcases baseball’s top prospects and rising young stars as they take the field on a Major League stage. For many of today’s All-Stars, this game marked their first national introduction – making it a can’t-miss look at the future of MLB.
    • MLBx (Begins approximately 30-45 minutes following the conclusion of the Futures Game | Airs on Peacock)
      • MLBx is a fast-paced, 3-on-3 knockout baseball competition featuring teams of Phillies and MLB legends, AUSL stars, and celebrity talent. The event highlights power hitting, athletic defense, strategy, and teamwork, creating an energetic close to All-Star Sunday.

From July 11-14, Capital One All-Star Village at the Pennsylvania Convention Center will welcome fans from around the world, and we’re looking for enthusiastic team members to help bring this unforgettable event to life.

The All-Star Experience Team to help with the various areas above at Capital One All-Star Village. Below are items you will receive for being part of the program:
All-Star Experience Team Performance Shirt

All-Star Experience Team Hat

Unlimited access to Capital One All-Star Village

MLB All-Star Cinch Bag

MLB All-Star Game Water Bottle

Commemorative All-Star Experience Team Baseball


This is a paid opportunity. Be part of one of the biggest celebrations in baseball and help us create an incredible All-Star Week in Philadelphia.

Apply here: https://lnkd.in/esuU9uq9

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Around Town With HughE

Where Art Meets Energy: A Night of Dance at the Museum for Art in Wood

Proof Museums Don’t Always Have to Be Quiet

For one night only, the Museum for Art in Wood transformed its exhibition gallery into an unexpected dance floor, inviting guests to experience the space in an entirely new way, the second annual Gallery Groove!! With artwork temporarily between exhibitions, the gallery traded sculptures for sound, filling the room with music, movement, and creative energy.

Elisa Medina, David Rosenwasser, Morgan Baily and Eli Robbins
Sosena Solomon, JLy, Joanna Blaz, Crystal Cuevas, Rachel Zimmerman, Founder, Visionary, and Executive Director of InLiquid and
Linda Smyth, Casa Vida.

Guests gathered in one of Philadelphia’s most unique cultural spaces to dance, connect, and celebrate art beyond the traditional museum experience.

Nadja Mcgilweski, Ingrid Buckley and Rachel Millomik

Events like this highlight the museum’s mission to keep creativity accessible and engaging while supporting future exhibitions and programming. Proceeds from the evening directly benefit the Museum for Art in Wood’s year round exhibitions, artist residencies, and public programs.

Gabrielle and Fred Kaplan-Mayer

Right now, the timing of the event is especially interesting because the museum is transitioning between exhibitions. Recent and current programming has included:

A Usable Past: Reflections on a Nation and Its Inheritance
A thought provoking exhibition bringing together works by multiple artists exploring American history, identity, and cultural legacy through contemporary wood based sculpture.

John Kip and Ren Griffin

American Graffiti: Painting, Dyeing, and Surface Design in Wood
An exhibition examining how artists push wood beyond traditional carving, using color, texture, and surface experimentation to expand the medium into contemporary art and design.

Looking ahead, the museum continues rotating exhibitions throughout the year, typically presenting four to five shows annually ranging from functional craft to sculptural contemporary work.

Jennifer-Navva Milliken (r)
is the Executive Director and Chief Curator of the Museum for Art in Wood in Philadelphia tells me there are some great upcoming programming which includes artist talks, residency events, and special evenings such as book signings and First Friday gatherings in the long time Old City’s gallery, every First Friday of the month!! I highly recommend you attend. It’s a fun night crawling the galleries on Old City.

SAVE THE DATE: First Friday Opening for Viola Bordon: Muliebrity March 6 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

When you stop in to see the exhibitions, which are all free, check out their store in person or online. I love their unique gifts.

Hope to see you next year for the third annual Gallery Groove!!

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Around Town With HughE Philadelphia 2026

The Franklin Institute’s “Universal” Exhibit Recap

Earlier this month I attended a sneak preview of party for the opening of the Franklin Institute’s Universal Exhibition

Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition, a groundbreaking new exhibit that takes guests inside the immersive and innovative world of Universal Destinations & Experiences’ theme parks, made its world premiere at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia on February 14, 2026, in partnership with Comcast NBCUniversal.

hallway

The Franklin Institute’s new Universal exhibit invites visitors to explore humanity’s place in the cosmos through immersive science, technology, and storytelling. Guests can expect a highly visual experience that blends space exploration, physics, and the search for life beyond Earth, with interactive displays designed for both adults and families.

Large scale projections, hands on stations, and thought provoking installations help explain complex ideas like gravity, light, and the origins of the universe in ways that feel approachable and engaging. (Pel Productions photo)

Casey Satell, Director of Institutional Giving, Kathleen Drummond, Madeleine Brownsey and Larry Dubinski President and CEO of The Franklin Institute

Rather than feeling like a traditional museum gallery, the exhibit moves visitors through a journey that encourages curiosity and reflection, reminding us how small we are in the universe while celebrating human innovation and discovery.

Larry Townsey and Colin Drumond
Kernika Gupta, director of CEO Initiatives at Independence Blue Cross (and with husband Vishal Patel are co hosting the American Heart Association’s 2026 Greater Philadelphia Heart Ball Heart of Philadelphia Friday) and Kate Wilhelm, Vice President of Community Growth & Economic Development at Comcast.
TJ Mannarino, Sandra Bersani and Melissa Gover

The exhibit is equal parts educational and awe inspiring, making it a strong addition to The Franklin Institute’s lineup and a must see for science lovers, students, and anyone looking for something new to experience in Philadelphia.

Audrayah Brunson and Kayleigh DiGacomo

Very cool movie props

The Tuttlemeans
Stefanie Schaffer and Cassandre Cavanaugh
Shira Epstein

Keeping up with the times, the exhibit also features plenty of fun selfie spots, perfect for capturing your visit and sharing it on social media.

Larry Dubinski President and CEO of The Franklin Institute

“Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition is a trailblazing concept that pulls back the curtain on an industry that entertains and thrills millions, revealing the science, innovation, and creativity in some of the most epic experiences in themed entertainment,” said Larry Dubinski, President and CEO, The Franklin Institute. “The exhibition brings beloved moments to life in new and exciting ways, delivering a truly unique and fun experience that we are proud to present as a world premiere in 2026.”

The Franklin Institute proudly presents the world premiere of Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition in the Nicholas and Athena Karabots Pavilion and the Mandell Center from February 14 through September 7, 2026. The exhibit was created in collaboration with the award-winning creative design firm MDSX. Comcast NBCUniversal is the local presenting sponsor, and PECO, the proud corporate partner of The Franklin Institute, is the associate sponsor of the exhibition. The exhibition is slated to tour North America after its Philadelphia run.

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Around Town With HughE

Les Dames Celebrates Lunar New Year

Dame Grace Young, Dame Susanna Foo, co-presidents Lynn Buono, Jacqueline Peccina-Kelly of the Philadelphia Chapter

Earlier this month I had the pleasure of photographing a very special evening as Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia welcomed the Lunar New Year, officially the Year of the Horse, with an extraordinary 16 course celebration at Bai Wei Restaurant.

Aliza Green and Terry Berch McNally

Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia is part of an international organization of women leaders in food, beverage, hospitality, and philanthropy who are dedicated to mentorship, education, and supporting the next generation of culinary professionals.

Locally, the chapter plays an important role in Philadelphia’s dining community by uplifting women chefs, restaurateurs, writers, and hospitality innovators while giving back through scholarships and community initiatives. Events like this highlight not only culinary excellence but also the power of collaboration and mentorship within the industry.

The evening’s menu was a remarkable partnership between Dame Susanna Foo and Bai Wei’s Chef Wen He Wang, blending tradition, artistry, and storytelling through each course.

Special guest for the remarkable dinner was NY Dame Grace Young, an award-winning cookbook author and Chinatown activist and humanitarian, shared stories about the good luck food guests were about to enjoy. She is currently partnering with the James Beard Foundation on the #supportChinatown campaign to preserve and protect America’s Chinatowns.

From start to finish, the night felt joyful and celebratory, with Susanna Foo beaming as guests experienced each beautifully presented dish. The raspberry dessert was a standout favorite and a perfect sweet finale to an unforgettable evening honoring culture, community, and culinary leadership.

Alethia Erwin and Betsy Spivak
Additional special guests included Rachel Klein of Miss Rachel’s Pantry and Philadelphia Inquirer food writer Michael Klein, who has shared a longtime friendship with the iconic Susanna Foo. I remember first discovering Michael’s column when he frequently wrote about her groundbreaking Walnut Street restaurant, once a Philadelphia dining destination and now the site of Chipolte.

If you are interested in joining the Philadelphia Chapter “Candidates for membership will be professional women who have demonstrated leadership and achievement in professional and philanthropic capacities and who have been actively engaged full-time for a minimum of five (5) yearsin careers in the food, beverage and/or hospitality industries.” Please include details on the endeavors that make you eligible for membership. HERE

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Pixs: Philly Home Show & Garden

The Philly Home + Garden Show is Back This Year with Over 300+ Exhibitors and a Little Bit of Something for Everyone

The Philly Home + Garden Show returns to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA, from Friday, February 20 through Sunday, February 22, 2026, featuring nearly 300 exhibitors, celebrity guests, immersive feature gardens, hands on workshops, and shopping experiences created to inspire homeowners, gardeners, and DIY enthusiasts alike.

I stopped by yesterday morning as the doors opened for the annual Philly Home and Garden event, where visitors were already lined up, eager to explore rooms filled with fresh ideas and inspiration.

Continuing Saturday and Sunday, attendees can shop, compare, and save while discovering fresh ideas, innovative products, and expert advice in remodeling, home improvement, décor, gardening, and outdoor living, all under one roof.  One of the region’s most anticipated annual events.

At the Philly Home Show & Garden, I ran into this mom and son duo, who demonstrated an incredible product, a formidable foldable strainer.. No more pulling out a bulky colander just to drain pasta or rinse food. I always love seeing local entrepreneurs creating products that make everyday life a little easier for all of us. It’s on sale at the show, but if you don’t make it here it is on Amazon!!

Nationally recognized experts, and hands-on features designed to help attendees plan projects, discover new ideas, and connect directly with trusted professionals.

I really love these candles, instead of a wick for a light, they are little water fountains. So clever.

The 2026 show will feature appearances by Captain Sandy Yawn, known for her leadership on Bravo’s hit series Below Deck Mediterranean, and Kevin O’Connor, Emmy-winning host of This Old House and Ask This Old House. Both will take the stage to share insights on leadership, problem-solving, renovation, and real-world home improvement strategies.

This is one of my favorite activations, a service where they create fun sleep overs for friends.

For the adults there are plenty of samples, like wine, cheese, crackers and sauces.

Get inspired for your outdoor space while exploring a full hall of gardens created by seven of the region’s top landscaping and garden companies. Stroll through more than 9,000 square feet of inspiring displays showcasing new landscaping techniques, fresh ideas, and must have products for 2026.

Guests can also build their own succulent at the succulent bar and unwind in the Wine Garden presented by The Renegade Winery.

Don’t miss a winning weekend…

Saturday, February 21: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday, February 22: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location:
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
100 Station Avenue, Oaks, PA 19456

Tickets:
Adults (Box Office): $12
Adults (Online): $10
Children 12 & Under: FREE
Parking is FREE.

For tickets, schedules, and full show details, visit www.PhillyHomeAndGarden.com.

Instagram: @phillyhomeshowsFacebook: @PhiladelphiaHomeShows