Author: HughE Dillon

Chronicling Philadelphia

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Around Town With HughE

The 45th Annual Elwyn Ball

The 45th Annual Elwyn Ball was a dazzling celebration of community, compassion, and commitment to empowering individuals with diverse abilities.

Karli Franick and Jessica Saltalamacchia

Held at the elegant Ballroom of the Bellevue Hotel (which by the way looks amazing after it’s renovation), the evening brought together supporters, advocates, and partners for an unforgettable night of dinner, dancing, and heartfelt moments.

Leslie Billhymer, Principal at Corona Partners Real Estate and Lauren Leonard, Senior Project Manager Real Estate & Construction

Guests honored Elwyn’s enduring legacy of service and innovation, while raising critical funds to support its vital programs in education, behavioral health, and disability services.

Honorees Judy and Bill, Sr. Strine

This year, Elwyn are honored to recognize Bill and Judy Strine for their steadfast dedication to Elwyn’s mission of enriching the lives of individuals facing developmental and behavioral health challenges. Thanks to their extraordinary $1 million gift for Elwyn’s Judy and Bill Strine Student Transition Center to life. This new center helps young adults ages 18 to 21 build independence and develop job skills as they transition into adulthood. Their generosity is already changing lives and will continue to shape many more for generations to come.

Kyle Woodland and Sen Shariff Street

A particularly moving moment of the evening came from Elwyn alumnus Kyle Woodland, now CEO of KWS Productions, who reflected on his inspiring path—from beginning early intervention services at Elwyn at just two years old to establishing a successful career in entertainment and advocacy. “Some people say it’s not how you start, but how you finish,” he shared. “For children with differences, how you start makes all the difference.” His powerful message highlighted the lasting impact of Elwyn’s mission and the critical role early support plays in shaping futures.

Michele Deuterman and Steve Morris

Guests enjoyed a gourmet dinner and elegant atmosphere as Elwyn President & CEO Chuck McLister shared exciting details of Elwyn’s most ambitious capital campaign to date, including plans for a new school and key campus updates that will advance Elwyn’s future and expand its impact. The evening continued with live music and dancing, adding joy and celebration to a night rooted in purpose.

Chelsea Beckett, Deijah Swihard, Cam Goettel and Nadia Whitson

The evening’s mission raise sparked a wave of generosity, with guests contributing $60,317 in just minutes to support Children’s Services. These funds will directly expand resources and opportunities for the youngest individuals we serve, helping them build strong foundations from the start. In total, the event raised $664,722, pushing Elwyn’s Ball’s historic impact to nearly $17 million since its founding in 1980.

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PYO Music Institute Celebrates 85 Years of Harmony and Hope at Anniversary Gala

Maestro Louis Scaglione , President & Music Director · Philadelphia Youth Orchestra

On Friday, March 28, 2025, the PYO Music Institute hosted its 85th Anniversary Gala at the historic Union League of Philadelphia, celebrating nearly a century of musical excellence, education, and community impact. Titled A Community in Harmony Inspiring the Future, the evening was a dazzling tribute to the students, families, faculty, and supporters who have helped shape one of the nation’s premier youth orchestral institutions.

The festivities began with a lively cocktail reception featuring a live art show and sale presented by Studio Incamminati. Guests browsed and bid on fine works while mingling in support of PYO’s mission.

Gina Clark, Scott Hartzell and Judi Hartzell

The Mission of PYO: As one of the nation’s oldest and most respected youth orchestra organizations, we provide unparalleled opportunities to musicians of all levels. Through exceptional educational and professional-caliber performance opportunities, our diverse ensemble programs nurture the next generation of musicians and leaders.

Rachel Vance and Katey O’Connor
Rick Clark and Jackie Cramer
Ken Kramer, Elizabeth Dalzell, Jordan Mersky and Liesl Henderson
Louis Scaglione, Kristin and Sean Palmer

Maestro Louis Scaglione has dedicated nearly 30 years to honing his talents as a musician, educator, conductor, and executive leader. His career spans a broad range of experience in orchestral, choral, and operatic works, alongside a strong background in education and arts administration. Recognized nationally, he is highly regarded throughout the Delaware Valley for his professionalism and leadership.

Alysson Cwyk and Colleen Hood
Ridge Bair and Sal Parillo
Raghusai Kuntamukkala, Laushmz Kondepudi, Rhiamak Harrington, Shawn Harrington
Alexander Shanks and Olivia Staton

The celebration continued with a stirring performance by the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra,

followed by an elegant seated dinner.

PYO Music Institute‘s 85th Anniversary Gala A Community in Harmony Inspiring the Future

Happy hump day, don’t worry about this weather it’s only a few days before unofficial SUMMER! Socially Yours, HughE

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A Night to Remember: Settlement Music School’s 117th Anniversary Gala

On April 26, we had the pleasure of covering one of Philadelphia’s most inspiring celebrations of the arts and community—the 117th Anniversary Gala for Settlement Music School. Held in the industrial-chic setting of the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia, the evening brought together students, alumni, faculty, and friends to honor more than a century of music, movement, and healing through the arts.

This year’s Gala celebrated the vibrant mosaic of artists, educators, and families who make Settlement’s five branches vital community hubs across the Greater Philadelphia area. As the School’s largest annual fundraiser, the Gala supports over $3 million in financial aid that helps ensure every student—regardless of circumstance—has access to high-quality arts education.

Tarrell Davis, Executive Director of Early Childhood Programming at Settlement Music School, Ellie and Jeff Marrazzo – honorees, Ginger Kunkel, President at Tompkins PA, Bruce Leto, Stradley Ronon and Helen Eaton, Chief Executive Officer at Settlement Music School

The evening was co-chaired by two esteemed Settlement faculty members: violinist Juliette Kang, First Associate Concertmaster of The Philadelphia Orchestra, and cellist Thomas Kraines, a member of the acclaimed Daedalus Quartet. Both artists not only bring world-class talent to the stage but also share their gifts in Settlement’s classrooms, mentoring students and inspiring the next generation of musicians.

Laura Cerulli, Suzanne Sweeney, Karin Orenstein, and Andrew Scott

This year’s honorees, Elinor and Jeffrey Marrazzo, along with The Marrazzo Family Foundation, were recognized for their visionary philanthropy and dedication to strengthening communities through the arts. Their impact—and the passion of the entire Gala Committee—was reflected in every thoughtful moment of the evening.

Jessica McGrath, Amelia Schmertz, Nate Bronstein, and Amy Liedy
Marlene Frayne, Keith and Angie Hardman
Val Gay, Chief Cultural Officer and Helen Eaton, Chief Executive Officer at Settlement Music School
Krystle Haliotis, and Vincent Casale

From moving performances to heartfelt speeches, the 117th Gala was a true celebration of Settlement’s mission: igniting connection, joy, and healing through the power of the arts for 117 years—and counting.

Dana Brown, Amelia Schmertz, Mariah Macham, Diana Wolfson, and Nguyet Le

Visit settlementmusic.org/give-now/annual-gala/ and donate to support the Gala, the Kaleidoscope Preschool Arts Enrichment Program, and the financial aid offered to 60% of the Settlement Music School student population. Follow them on Instagram : Community music school in Philadelphia providing accessible, creative arts education to all, including online lessons and classes.

Photos by Andre Flewellen. Thanks, Socially Yours, HughE

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Radnor Hunt Races 2025

From lively tailgates, elegant hats, Derby dress and galloping thoroughbreds, the Radnor Hunt Races brought together timeless tradition, tailgate parties, and steeplechase excitement. At its heart, race day is about more than just the finish line—it’s about “Racing for Open Space.”

For 45 years, the Radnor Hunt Races has proudly supported the Brandywine Conservancy’s mission by raising funds and awareness for its open space preservation and clean water initiatives. In a time when the benefits of nature are more evident than ever, your continued support plays a vital role in protecting these precious resources. By taking part in the Races, you help safeguard open space and ensure a healthier, greener future for generations to come.

Sarah Giordano, Erin Malikaoski, Katie Skog and Jen Skog

This year’s weather was ideal, after the few years of clouds, rain and downright chilly. Chilly it was not. The smarter of the men ventured out without their suit jackets. I was not that smart and was sooo hot! But look how cool this set up was.

Michele Carney, Richard Gere, Marianne Gere and Dawn Michetti
Richard Gere’s Table
A parade of The Derby Dressed coming from the shopping area. It’s there where you could buy boots or the fanciest of derby hats and bow ties.
The Cross/Frick Party, or as I like to call them my OG Friends. Folks I’ve known since nearly the beginning of PhillyChitChat. Hosted by Alissa and Tony Frick (who had a great party Friday night at their new barn, to support Fred’s Footsteps), and Ben Cross with lovely wife Rosemary Connors. Rosemary is in the news today – The Phila Business Journal. She left NBC10 last fall, The longtime anchor and reporter chose to leave the media world behind when her contract expired last fall to start her own business, Rosette Specialty Trades. – Congrats!! I always find out a little nugget when I go to this event. One year she was having a baby, the next year she was leaving NBC10 and now she told me about her new business, which is highly successful. (See Dad I can keep a secret.) It was great to see the Mole Street Boys, Brendan and Brian. Plus the Grindy’s and my longtime bestie girl Erin Como, who left NBC10 nearly 15 years ago to Nashville (I visited her), and then to DC 12 years ago * I haven’t visited her, bad me.
Scott Dalesandro, executive chef at The Racquet Club of Philadelphia and Nicholas Pitt, GM of The Racquet Club

I don’t think I got one photo of the horses running, which is nearly typical of me as I am paying attention to the guests.

The Mainliners at the Main Line Today Party: Jennifer Lynn Robinson, Nina Castillo, Jen Su, Nicolette Brycki, Marcia Vanessa Williams, Jaimi Blackburn and Afea Tucker
George Coates, Annetta Cortes, Cara Saxe, Kathleen Lambert and Joseph Cortese enjoying what I think it the best tent on site, right outside the clubhouse, at the top of the hill with unobstructed views.

A great day was had by all, but I had to leave at 3PM as I was melting… look for more photos in an upcoming Philly Style Magazine column. Until then…

Socially Yours, HughE

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William Penn Award Gala

The William Penn Award Gala was held on April 24, 2025, at Citizens Bank Park to honor Dan Fitzpatrick, President of Citizens Mid-Atlantic Region.

Recognized as the highest accolade for a business leader in the Greater Philadelphia area, the William Penn Award celebrates individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the region’s business and civic growth, demonstrated exceptional professional achievements, and exhibited strong leadership. Congratulations to Daniel K. Fitzpatrick, President of the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest Regions at Citizens, on this well-deserved honor.

Someone I sometimes confuse with Dan Fitzpatrick, for no other reason but their name, and I have done it to their face, yikes

Daniel J. Hilferty, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Comcast Spectacor. They’re both great sports about it. Some of you know I’m dyslexic, so I’m sure that plays a part in it. (I mean they both are affiliated with sports teams too.(
Andrew Wheeler, President of Lincoln Leadership, Hugh McStravick is the Vice President of Client and Community Relations for the Philadelphia, Delaware, and Southern New Jersey region of PNC and John Salveson, President, Salveson Leadership Advisors, LLC

Before the awards ceremony their was a great networking, reception.

Peter Gnollman, Tracy Brala, Lorina Marshall-Blake is President of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation and Independence Blue Cross (IBX) Vice President of Government Affairs Mitch Vidovich
George and Kristen Maynes
Greg and Aileen Alexander

Thanks to the sponsors

Meg Kane, President & CEO, Signature 57 and Philadelphia Soccer 2026’s Host City Executive, Kane oversees its daily operations and serves as the primary liaison to FIFA. Donna Crilley Farrell is senior vice president of Corporate Communications for Independence Blue Cross (IBX), Photo Bomber, Phanatic, Lorina Marshall-Blake and Kate Wilhelm , Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President for Ceisler Media & Issue Advocacy

My favorite event snacks; You had me at Popcorn.

After the ceremony folks got to walk the bases. It was great the weather was co operating. There’s nothing worse than an event at the stadiums, and it rains.

This is the first time I have seen CBP set up a dinner at the 3rd base entrance. Usually they have dinner in the Diamond Club or inside the stadium. It was really a nice change, capped off by a beautiful sunset. Great job Chamber of Commerce, and Congratulations again Dan Fitzpatrick!!

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Celebrating Mentors in Philly

A notable celebration gathering women of civic engagement and mentorship took place Wednesday morning – The Committee of Seventy hosted its annual Women in Public Leadership event . Among those being recognized was Charisse Lille, Esq., who expressed excitement and gratitude for the honor.

“I am thrilled to be honored by the Committee of Seventy at this important event,” Charisse said. “I look forward to the panel of outstanding leaders who will be discussing the Power of Mentorship.”

Rhonda Cohen, Board Manager of Swarthmore (She married David, graduate of ’77) and Charisse Lillie, Esq., Corporate Executive, Board Member, Consultant

The annual gathering shines a spotlight on women making a meaningful impact in public life and encourages conversations around leadership, equity, and the importance of guiding the next generation. This year’s theme, The Power of Mentorship, brings together a dynamic panel of trailblazers sharing their insights and experiences.

I was especially excited to attend because, back in 1990, my first job as a paralegal was for Camden’s Solicitor, Karen Taylor-Lewis, Esquire (Office of the City Attorney). At the time, Charisse Lillie was serving as Philadelphia’s City Solicitor and was a mentor to my boss Karen. Much of the wisdom and guidance Charisse shared with Karen was then passed along to me. So when I had the chance to meet Charisse nearly 20 years later, in 2009, after I started PhillyChitChat, I was able to share that full-circle moment with her.

The room was filled with many of Charisse’s mentors (men and women) as well as dozens of her mentees. She talked about the responsibility guiding, supporting, and giving advice, drawing from her own experience, to help another person grow, both personally and professionally. And how she carried her mentees as she climb the ladder of her career. Noted her mother’s advice (a teacher), she always treated her students as if they were going to be her boss someday!!
Barbara Adams, The Philadelphia Energy Authority , Loree D. Jones – Brown. Chief Executive Officer of Philabundance and Leslie Anne Miller, Pennsylvania attorney and philanthropist who served as General Counsel of Pennsylvania under Governor Ed Rendell.
Tiffany Tavarez, Jefferson Health’s Office of Community Impact and Belonging (CIB) (She reports to my old mentor Keith Leaphart. I recently had a chance to really thank him for his guidence when I first started out. in 2007) and Varsovia Fernandez, Chief Executive Officer · Pennsylvania CDFI Network
Trish Wellenbach, Board Chair of Jefferson Health and Katie Adams Schaeffer, Senior Director of Leadership Giving at the Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia PA
Siah McCabe, Project Manager in External Affairs & Operations for Philadelphia Soccer 2026; a Committee of Seventy a 2025 Buchholz Fellows and Madison Eggert-Crowe, Vice President, Political Affairs · Comcast
Steve Fera is executive vice president of Public Affairs and president of Government Markets at Independence Blue Cross and Michael Innocenzo, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Exelon

The event featured a panel discussion on the importance of mentorship, moderated by Sue Jacobson, President and CEO of Jacobson Strategic Communications. Panelists included Donna Bullock, Esquire, President and CEO of Project Home and former member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives; Carlyn D. Crawley, MPA, Chief of Staff in the Office of Councilmember Quetcy Lozada and a Buchholz Fellow alumna; and

Trish Wellenbach, Chief Strategy and Partnership Officer in the Office of Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, City of Philadelphia. Experienced Board Director & CEO | Transformative Leader, Value Creator & Difference Maker | Deep Healthcare Background combined with Education & Consumer-centric Business Expertise

I was truly inspired by Trish Wellenbach’s mentorship story. I’ve photographed Trish and her husband Larry McMichael for over a decade and have seen her rise with purpose and grace. At events, she’s always approachable—offering a kind word, thoughtful advice, and genuine connection. On the panel, she shared how Rebecca Rimmel, former president of the Pew Charitable Trusts, mentored her early in her career and even wrote letters of recommendation that helped open doors, something I remember well as people had done the same for me in my paralegal career. Trish now pays that forward, mentoring others with the same generosity—always available, always leading with heart.

As a mentor myself, I can say there’s real joy and fulfillment in guiding others. Watching my mentees grow and succeed fills me with pride—it’s one of the most rewarding experiences in life. I always tell them, pay it forward. Be a mentor to others. We are all in this together!!

Socially yours, HughE

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Howie Roseman MVP

The Second Annual Philly Opener

On Monday, May 12, 2025, the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation (PVCC) presented the second annual Philly Opener—a celebrated, award-winning celebration and fundraiser—at the Independence Visitor Center (599 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106). The event marks the culmination of National Travel and Tourism Week, uniting industry professionals, community partners, and enthusiastic locals to spotlight the vital role tourism plays in Philadelphia and the surrounding region.

Daniel J. Hilferty is the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Comcast Spectacor, Howie Roseman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Philadelphia Eagles and Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the Most Valuable Philadelphian (MVP) Award, recognizing an individual who has made a significant impact on the city. This year’s honoree Howie Roseman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Philadelphia Eagles, whose leadership has not only brought the team to three Super Bowl appearances and two victories in the past eight years, but also elevated Philadelphia’s profile on the global stage.

Cari Feiler Bender, President and Founder of Relief Communications celebrated her birthday last night at the event. here with Kathryn Ott Lovell, President of the Phila Visitor Center

Guests enjoyed the city and state’s iconic destinations with fun activations and photo moments from the Visitor Center and Visit PA. The culinary experience at the event will showcase the best of Philadelphia’s diverse food scene, including a Taste of Reading Terminal Market, a Taste of the Historic District, and a tasting station from James Beard Award-winning chef Jose Garces featuring Buena Onda in collaboration with Mijenta Tequila.

Christian Molnar Director of Team Relationships Aileen Dagrosa – Eagles Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Marla Axelrod, Vice President, Deputy General Counsel · Philadelphia Eagles and Rachel Weiss, Eagles General Counsel
Colby Roberts and Denise Berry
Dave Birch, Stella Andersen, Sherry Andersen, Katie Burger and Courtney Auster of Pennsylvania State Tourism. A favorite tourism spot they recommend is is Jim Thorpe, especially Penns peak. As well as Bedford Springs especially the Omni Bedford Resort.
The Phambassadors sign up to volunteer at cool Philly events. HERE
Out and About: Laura Burkhardt and James Zeleniak – Founder | CEO – Punch Media PR
Maria Deluca and Annie Allman of the Reading Terminal Market
Andrew Bergman, OIC Philadelphia, Tiffany Tavarez is Vice President, Community Impact and Strategic Partnerships for Jefferson’s Office of Community Impact, Jane Golden, Mural Arts and Lorina Marshall-Blake, President, Independence Blue Cross Foundation, and Vice President of Community Affairs, Independence Blue Cross
Ben and Betsy with Priya Ahmad and Councilmember Nina Ahmad | At Large
Sadie Mendlow, Cashman & Associates, Britini Lettsome (Fav tourist spots – Reading Terminal, Spruce Street Harbor and Magic Garden) and Colleen Murphy, Phila Visitor Center
Councilmembers Mark Squilla and Isaiah Thomas
City Representative Jazelle Jones

Dignitaries proudly spotlighted what makes our city shine: world-class museums, rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and of course, our unbeatable food scene (yes, cheesesteaks included ). But none of it would be as welcoming without the hardworking folks in hospitality — from hotel staff and tour guides to concierges and event pros — who go the extra mile every day.

Thanks to your warm smiles, helpful tips, and hometown pride, guests leave Philly with amazing memories and a desire to come back for more.

Philly’s star is rising — and it’s all thanks to you!

Socially Yours, HughE

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Taylor Swift & Chit Chat

It’s been radio silence since the Super Bowl, but the Swifthearts are back! Yes, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have finally reemerged after months under the radar—and where did they pop up? Right here in Philly, making their first appearance since Easter 2024. Back then, they spent the weekend cozied up at Jason and Kylie Kelce’s place in Havertown. This time, the lovebirds were spotted at Talula’s Garden in Society Hill, joined by their moms, Donna Kelce and Andrea Swift, and of course, new parents Jason and Kylie and BABY FINN, who was held by Kylie during brunch. The superstar squad of six had a 10 a.m. brunch reservation.

Now here’s where things get extra sweet—literally! Talula’s brunch dessert menu is cheekily titled “Sweet Nothings,” which just might be a wink to Swift’s dreamy ballad “Sweet Nothing” from her 2022 Midnights album. And if that’s not enough to make a Swiftie swoon, each of the five dessert options is priced at $13—Taylor’s famously lucky number. Coincidence? We think not.

With their families blending over brioche and “Sweet Nothings,” it sure looks like true love for these two chart-topping sweethearts.

PS Talula’s Garden is also a fav of Bey and JayZ when they produced the Made in America concert over Labor Day in Philly. That festival seems to have run it’s course. BUT don’t fret, have you heard LL Cool J and Jazmin Sullivan are performing at the Philly July 4th Concert?

PS I don’t know who took the photo of Travis and Taylor, and I would love to credit you. Please drop me a note.

Marisa Magnatta IG Post. Also support Marisa in her quest: I’m excited to be nominated for the American Heart Association Go Red for Women movement’s Woman of Impact campaign.

Heartbreaking, and strange. Have you heard that WMMR’s Kathy Romano was let go of the Preston and Steve Show after on 93.3 WMMR after 22 years because her contract was not renewed by Beasley Media Group, the station’s owner.

Romano confirmed her departure from WMMR through a post on Instagram. She stilled showed up to support her long time co-workers and friends at the MMR BBQ over the weekend.

Also making an appearance—rock royalty with a fun twist! Bush stepped in for Alice In Chains, who had to bow out at the last minute, and absolutely brought the energy. Frontman Gavin Rossdale delivered a powerhouse performance, hyping up the crowd and even strolling into the lawn seats at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion to connect with fans up close.

Offstage, Gavin kept the good vibes going. He was spotted over the weekend at the Ritz-Carlton, happily chatting with fans in the lobby, and later doing a bit of shopping along Walnut Street, as well as spotted in Rittenhouse Square on Sunday. With sunshine and great music in the air, it was the perfect day to be out and about.

And that’s just what Mike and I did today—we escaped to the countryside for one of our favorite simple pleasures: a good old-fashioned Sunday drive. Yep, that’s us cruising along at Amish buggy speed, sometimes with the hazards blinking, pulled over to chat with cows and snap a few photos along the way.

On Saturday, I spent the day at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge with The Incolor Birding Club—a Philly-based birding group created for BIPOC birders and their allies. Birding with a group always adds an extra layer of fun, especially when there are knowledgeable leaders who can help identify the birds you’re spotting. (I’m also part of a few birding MeetUp groups—it’s a great way to stay connected and keep exploring!)

This week, Philly’s birding community is buzzing with excitement thanks to a rare sighting at John Heinz Nature Preserve! Local birder Marty Dellwo spotted a White-faced Ibis among a flock of Glossy Ibis—a potential first-ever county record for this species in Philadelphia! While they look quite similar, the White-faced Ibis in breeding plumage shows some telltale differences: a white outline framing a reddish face, bright red eyes, a grayish bill, and vivid red legs. (Photo credit to Martin Dellwo)

Fun fact—Marty’s actually the one who introduced me to birding about ten years ago. We were already friends, and one morning he finally convinced me to tag along at 5 a.m. Let’s just say… that early start didn’t become a habit (I was definitely not a morning person back then!).

The social season is in full swing and off to an incredible start! I’ve been photographing a whirlwind of events and reconnecting with so many familiar faces—it’s been nonstop. We’re fully booked through the end of June, so if you’re hoping to schedule something, July and August are wide open!

That said, I definitely need to carve out some time to recharge and dive into a few personal hobbies—balance is key, right? In the meantime, stay tuned! I’ll be sharing fresh event coverage right here on PhillyChitChat throughout the week. Thanks!!

Socially Yours, HughE

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Bullseye Flight Club

Flight Club Philadelphia has landed at 1417 Walnut Street—and it’s already hitting the bullseye!

Wednesday night’s kick off party was an absolute blast!! The crowd? A wild mix of frat bros and gals, influencers, top-tier CEOs, and everyone in between.

Alex Patterson, Toby Harris, President & CEO State of Play Hospitality “Flight Club” , Louise Neilson, Michon van As and Tiffer Valente

“We’re thrilled to finally be opening in Rittenhouse,” said Toby Harris, Chief Executive Officer of State of Play Hospitality. “We try to find beautiful, historic buildings which augment the Flight Club experience and our Walnut Street location delivers on that brief spectacularly. It is a stunning site right in the heart of a vibrant neighborhood packed with great restaurants and entertainment options.”

Flight Club is housed in the historic former Philadelphia Stock Exchange building, just steps from Rittenhouse Square. This high-end entertainment venue blends a refined food and drink experience with the lively, tech-enhanced game of Social Darts®.

What is Social Darts®? It’s a high-energy, multiplayer experience featuring advanced tracking technology and real-time scoring, designed to unite players of all skill levels—from first-timers to seasoned dart enthusiasts.

Carlos, the Flight Ambassador (aka Dart Guru Extraordinaire) assisted the guests in learning the game, and was a cheerleader for all. His energy was contagious, and even a hopeless dart-thrower like me felt like a pro by the end.

Elle Alva, Jackie Tancredi and Brenda Hillegas
Shaina Levin, Oren Wineburgh, Reid Rosenthal, Terry Katz and Alton O’Shields
Mackenzie Kunkle, Jessica Caampued, Aidan Greene, Holly Keefe and Aaron Walters
Ron and Ellen Caplan

$15 – $17 pp for 90 minutes of play. Order food and drinks if you want.

Farah Farag – Senior Manager of Social Content & Strategy and Jasmine Armstrong – Senior Director of Hospitality & Events both of Visit Philly
Grace Mailey and Rob Wallon
Thanks Flight Club for a fantastic night, food was on point, cocktails were flowing. I loved the variety of games, everyone had so much fun as Corie Moskow Owner, Gloss PR made sure everything was going smoothly.
The Chelsea’s: Chelsea Coia and Chelsea Brooks
Quay Stinney and a Philly Top Influencer Alia Dzemaili

I love all these themed restaurant/bars opening up of late. There’s no need to doom scroll while out with your friends playing, or observing others playing cause it’s so much fun. There is a VIP room for private parties or for private folks who want to enjoy the action uninterrupted. For more information on this latest iteration of fun. Check Here.
Wait did I mention they have BRUNCH

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A Beautiful Day: Andalusia Derby Day

On Saturday, May 4, 2025 guests stepped into spring with style at Andalusia’s annual Garden Party, a festive celebration that paired the elegance of a historic estate with the excitement of the Kentucky Derby.

Attendees sipped cocktails, enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres, and strolled through gardens in full bloom before gathering to watch the Kentucky Derby’s annual “The Run for the Roses.”

Sarah Claytor, Laura Thaylor, Brannon Claytor, David Bayer and John Vick, Executive Director of Andulasia.

Set against the stunning backdrop of this National Historic Landmark, the event supported Andalusia’s mission to preserve, interpret, and make accessible its remarkable gardens and historic buildings to the public.

Nichola Kinch and Megan Biddle
Rev Manuel and Lisa Biagas
Andalusia is part of Philadelphia is America’s Garden Capital: With more than 30 public gardens, arboreta, and historic landscapes all located within 30 miles, the Greater Philadelphia region has more gardens in close proximity than anywhere else on the continent!
John Vick, Executive Director, Adrianna de Svastich, Development & Membership Manager:, Adam Yarsinky, Marketing Manager and Janna Winans, Business Manager:

The Kentucky Derby, often dubbed “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” is a thrilling spectacle that captures the imagination of fans around the world.

From the moment the bugle sounds and the thoroughbreds thunder out of the gate, the adrenaline surged through the crowd at Andulasia as if they were in the Louisville stands.

After the horse race, we continued to walk the grounds, tour the house and enjoy the day. Something you can do as well. – – Andalusia is now open for the 2025 season through November 14. We are open Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, excluding holidays. We are also open on eight Saturdays throughout the year: April 5, April 19, May 17, May 31, June 14, Sept. 13, Oct. 25, and Nov. 1. INFO