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Visit Williamsburg

The folks from Visit Williamsburg came to Philly to share exciting news about the historic city, and attractions.

Edward Harris, President & CEO at Visit Williamsburg and Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO Philadelphia Visitor Center

Another reason why many of us headed to the Museum of the American Revolution was to catch up with our friend Ed Harris, a friend to all, who for many years lead Visit Lancaster and before that was the chief marketing officer of Valley Forge Tourism. A great guy, with a lot of knowledge of tourism and history.

I’ve been to Williamsburg twice, and it was beautiful, but I had no idea there was more to the area than Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens when I was there, pre internet days, ha.

I do remember I enjoyed it very much, and has always been on my bucket list to return.

We learned a lot at the luncheon, and what you should know is Colonial Williamsburg is a 301-acre living history museum, which takes travelers back in time to colonial Virginia through immersive experiences, historic interpretations, museums, and events. Landmarks include the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol, the Raleigh Tavern, and historic Duke of Gloucester Street.

There’s also museums, and special exhibitions, a Ripley’s Believe It or Not, ghost tours, lots of shopping, including an outlet mall, there’s also several golf courses – FORE!!

The USA, Philly and Williamsburg is gearing up to celebrate our country’s 250th Anniversary. One of the biggest events heading to Norfolk, VA near Williamsburg Sail250® Virginia – which includes more than 60 ships from 20 countries. Norfolk (Host City), Hampton Roads
& Chesapeake Bay Region, Virginia is one of 5 stops Sail 250 is making, and Philadelphia is not on the list.

Daniela Owen and Renee Gordon

If you want to visit Williamsburg, the holidays are a perfect time. Santa sets up his toy shop on November 15th, so you can get your wishes in early. Then the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony happens on December 6th at Victory Walk, and kicks off a weekend of festivities. The 27th annual Lighted Boat Parade is on December 7th at 6 pm, with caroling around illuminated braziers, a musical performance by the Fifes and Drums of Yorktown, and complimentary hot cider. In addition, Grand Illumination will light up the night with pyrotechnics at Governor’s Palace and the Capitol building every Saturday night through December 21.

The 27th annual Lighted Boat Parade is on December 7th at 6 pm, with caroling around illuminated braziers, a musical performance by the Fifes and Drums of Yorktown, and complimentary hot cider. Also kicking off that weekend is Colonial Williamsburg’s Grand Illumination which will light up the night with pyrotechnics Saturdays at Governor’s Palace and the Capitol building through December 21.

Williamsburg is definitely going to be on my travel bucket list. I’m excited to explore this area in person, again. If you want to join me find out more info HERE

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Around Town With HughE

Scene: Phila Ballet Celebrates

On Friday, October 25, 2024, the Philadelphia Ballet marked a significant milestone with its 60th Anniversary Gala performance and dinner.

Co Chairs of the Gala Sarah Marshall and Lloyd Freeman. A spectacular event, sold out and a success in raising critical funds for the company.

The one-night event celebrated the company’s history, achievements, and future. Chaired by Philadelphia Ballet Trustees Sarah Marshall and Lloyd Freeman, the gala also served as a fundraising opportunity to support the company’s performances and community initiatives.

The evening started with a pre-performance reception at the Academy of Music.

John and Jane Fischer, Bernadette and Russell Casey
Caroline Slota and John Sherman
Brandon Woods and Ashley Mariana
Congratulations to Phila Ballet Principal Dancers: Sterling Baca and Scarlett Suemez who were married a few days later!! Here with always stylish Rita Rome.
Nydia Han and Dennis Reilly
Brandon Woods and Ashley Mariana
Jessica Mathelier and Danielle Bourgeon, whose favorite quote is: “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” ~Colin Powell

Guests enjoyed a spectacular program Angel Corella, The Ruth and A. Morris Williams, Jr. Artistic Director, has created of ballet excerpts that showcases the artists of Philadelphia Ballet, Philadelphia Ballet II, School of Philadelphia Ballet, and Philadelphia Ballet Orchestra led by Beatrice Jona Affron, The Louise and Alan Reed Music Director.

After the performance the promenade took place as guests made their way from the Academy of Music to The Union League for dinner.
Beautiful art work The Heart of The Philadelphia Ballet by Perry Milou was on auction
Philadelphia Ballet Dance5rs Charlotte Erickson, Ashlee Lewis and Gabriel Lukasit
Diane Dalto Woosnam and Richard Woosnam
Beverly Deavens and Gregory E. Deavens President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross
Philadelphia Ballet artistic director Angel Corella and Shelly Power, Executive Director

Tickets are on sale for George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker starting at $25 and are available for the three-week run of Nutcracker.

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Wistar Gala Celebrates Break through

The Wistar Institute is a leading independent research institute in Philadelphia with a mission to advance cures for cancer and infectious diseases.


Wistar donors, board members, and staff gathered at the Philadelphia Art Museum on September 26th to celebrate the success of the Bold Science // Global Impact Campaign.

Tara Abraham, Kristy Shuda McGuire, David Zuzga, Paul Lieberman

Launched in 2022, the Campaign was designed to advance Wistar’s strategic plan and focused on three strategic pillars: biomedical research, education and training, and collaborations and partnerships. 

Tyler Vandergrift, Katy Vandergrift, Jeff Fahnoe, Erin Fahnoe
Jacki Ryan, Beth Hoover, and Pete Hoover
Ron Caplan, Helen Pudlin, Ellen Caplan, Liz Anderson

Ron Caplan, campaign chair, kicked off the evening by acknowledging the importance of the researchers that fuel Wistar discoveries. “So much good happens at Wistar … and it’s because of the scientists at Wistar, who are the most dedicated group of people I have ever met. If you want to give a round of applause to anything, $63 million is one thing, but the scientists at Wistar are really special.” (Ellen & Ron Caplan Cancer Center)

Jenny Pulles, Hinke Popma
Steve Schneible, Lily Siegal, Rich Siegal, Deborah McKenna, and Darien Sutton
Meenhard Herlyn, Noam Auslander, Yonatan Saadon, and Amelia Escolano
Max Berger, Dario Altieri, and Ron Caplan

Wistar president and CEO Dr. Dario Altieri concluded the event by reminding attendees of the importance of philanthropic donations to the Institute. “What is the spirit of a capital campaign for a basic biomedical research institute? To me, the spirit of the campaign is a spirit of hope, a spirit of trust — a spirit of believing in a future that is not yet here. It is investing in hope for the medicines of the future, not just for ourselves, but for everybody.”

The Wistar Institute is the nation’s first independent nonprofit institution devoted exclusively to foundational biomedical research and training. Since 1972, the Institute has held National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Cancer Center status. Through a culture and commitment
to biomedical collaboration and innovation, Wistar science leads to breakthrough early-stage discoveries and life science sector start-ups. Wistar scientists are dedicated to solving some of the world’s most challenging problems in the field of cancer and immunology, advancing human health through early-stage discovery and training the next
generation of biomedical researchers
. wistar.org

I’m shocked, that 15 million Democrats sat out this election (Biden received 15 million more votes than Harris.) President Elect Trump received 4 million less votes than in 2020. Hang tight cause it’s going to be a bumpy road, and lots of changes.

Socially Yours, HughE

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Scene: Junior League Of Phila Fall Fete

Focus Fundraising Committee: Tamara Feagins & Ashley White were on hand to greet the 100 plus guests to the annual Junior League of Philadelphia Fall Fete at the Independence Seaport Museum.

Junior League of Philadelphia

The Junior League is a nonprofit organization of women that focuses on community service, leadership development, and promoting voluntarism. Founded in the late 19th century, the League aims to improve communities through effective action and trained volunteers.

Erin Nanovic, Pam Phojanakong, Matt Connell, Jessica Hessel,
Laurel Mangini, and Jacquelyn Rothera (The cutest wedding photo)

Members participate in various projects and initiatives, often addressing issues like education, health, and social welfare. The organization also emphasizes leadership training and personal development, equipping members to take on active roles in their communities. Each local chapter operates independently, tailoring its programs to meet the specific needs of its community.

Trevor Vent, Lauren Clemence, Sierra Cullen, Meg Kelly, Simran Singh, and Savrav Bose

The Junior League of Philadelphia performs a lot of philanthropic endeavors, but is also a good networking and social outlet.

Tom Reamer, Matt Connell, Mike Jones, and David Cuozzo
If you are interested in joining our organization, we invite you to attend one of our informational socials. Please click here

Also follow them on Instagram where they have a great events for you to attend, like the upcoming

Thanks to Andre Flewellen for photographing this event for PCC. PR PhillyPrGirl

Have a great day. Follow me on Instagram where I occasionally break stories like Tuesday’s Kamala Harris Rally on the Parkway, on the eve before the election.

Socially yours, HughE

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Billy Penn at WHYY Celebrates 10 Years of Impact

Bill Marrazzo welcomes more than 200 Billy Penn readers and fans who gathered at WHYY last week to celebrate 10 years of the news website and hear from seven winners of the publication’s Billies Awards. The Billies is their annual entertainment and awards show celebrating cool people who help make Philadelphia better and more fun.

One of those cool kids was Albert Lee, who a decade ago worked at the visitor center, and who also celebrated Philadelphia with his eponymous SM handle UrPhillyPal

About Billy Penn:

Founded in 2014 as a mobile-first platform aimed at millennials, BillyPenn generated buzz with its innovative approach to local news, even translating government debates into emojis! WHYY acquired BillyPenn from its founding owner, Spirited Media, on April 15, 2019. This creative spirit has continued as BillyPenn maintains its distinct voice within WHYY’s collaborative newsroom.

Peter Bernstein and Julian Plotnick
Three legendary Philly Artists/Creatives: Amberello, Aubrie Costello, and Conrad Benner, Streets Department, Curator at @muralarts; Host of @whyy’s Art Outside podcast!
Mary Ann Falzone, John Estrada, Randye Spina and Bill Marrazzo
Heather Steiner, Heather Steiner, owner and lead trainer of HALO Dog Training. The Marketing department is an one history! celebrated her birthday at the Billy’s celebration!!
Terrill Haigler, Ya Favorite Trashman and an honored Billy winner
Mary Ann Falzone, John Estrada, Randye Spina and Bill Marrazzo
Frank Olivieri owner of Pat’s Cheesteaks and Nancy Schure Olivieri, of Pat’s King of Steaks, where she manages PR and social media- honored with a Billy celebrating food.
Max Tuttleman, Terrill Haigler and Lauren Vidas
Debbie Gowen, John Martelli and Patty Fox. Before I was PhillyChitChat Patty used to sell my photo greeting cards at her store on 20th Street “The General Store.” How I miss that eclectic store.
Robert Evans and Raymond Holman

Congratulations to the honorees:

SOCIAL MEDIA – Albert Lee (@urphillypal) 
ARTS – Conrad Benner
BUSINESS – Alex Hillman
PUBLIC SERVICE – Terrill Haigler
SOCIAL – Dave Cline
FOOD #1 – Nancy Schure Olivieri
FOOD #2 – Alex Tominsky

Finally a few days off. I will be catching up on blog posts the next few days, and of course follow me on IG for daily posts, don’t forget to check out the stories where I post every 6 hours of what’s happening. Socially yours, HughE

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Renewed & Reviewed: The Bellevue Hotel

It’s nearly done, the Bellevue Hotel has under gone a transformation over the past few years. I started writing about it in 2019, when owner Ronald Rubin had a vision to return the hotel back to it’s 1904 glory days, where the lobby was located on the first floor, and there was a hustle bustle of activity.

The Bellevue-Stratford Hotel (The Bellevue) is a landmark building at 200 S. Broad Street at the corner of Walnut Street in Center City Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

I don’t like change, and it was emotional to learn about the changes to come, as I know it was for many of my readers. (Nicole Miller to move out of Bellevue)

The former ground floor space in July 2019

Over the years the hotel has gone through many iterations; the last big one occurred in 1989. From Wikipedia: [Rubin] at a cost of $100 million, designed by architects from RTKL Associates Inc. in Baltimore and the Vitetta Group-Studio Four of Philadelphia.[21] The building’s name was shortened to The Bellevue. The grand public areas on the ground floor were converted to 55,000 sq ft of retail space.[22] A huge atrium was cut into the lobby[23] and escalators were installed leading to an underground shopping area and food court. (my note: and 2nd floor ballroom) The parking garage adjacent to the hotel had a 70,000 sq ft fitness club[21] (The Sporting Club ) built on top of it to serve the complex. The hotel rooms on floors 3 to 11 were converted into 280,000 sq ft of office space,[22] entered through the original main entrance facing Broad Street, with the office portion opening on December 5, 1988.[21]

In 2019 Ron Rubin had the idea to return the hotel to it’s former grand self, as well as converting some office space to residential.

The newly renovated lobby of the Bellevue photographed on 10/16/24

Ronald Rubin died in April 2021,[32] and in November 2021, his estate sold the entire Bellevue structure to Lubert-Adler Partners, for an undisclosed sum. That year they announced plans to completely renovate the property again, at a cost of $100 million. They planned to convert the largely vacant office space on the lower floors to apartments, with 200-300 units to be built out, over time. ( PBJ)

The hotel was closed November 2023 to guests, to finish the renovations.

(The Sporting Club opened November 2023, after their renovation, and it’s magnificent. FYI I joined in August at $175 a month [it goes up Nov 1 for new members to $190]. I honestly love the place. Several of my friends joined after moi cause i told them how great it was. It is expensive compared to others, but they have soo much. BTW I get asked, and yes I do pay for my membership. I just want you to know I really love it there, I often do SM posts about it, the staff is helpful and very nice.)

The historic lobby level public areas, are complete and restored to their original function serving hotel guests. (Seemingly carrying on Ron Rubin’s vision, which is great.)

The beautiful check in desk now located in the lobby. The check in used to be on the 19th floor.

Residents started moving in over the summer, and last week the hotel (operated by Hyatt) started taking reservations again.

a view of the renovated lobby
Another view of the lobby, looking towards where The Palm Restaurant used to be located. (Last week while I was there I saw they are doing construction in the space)

They have definitely created a luxurious, inviting , but private space in the new lobby.

Right now, the lobby has a coffee bar for residents and hotel guests. The hotel officially opens to the public November 1, 2024.

Recently I wrote about the new restaurant going in where Polo used to be located, in August on my blog and then more last week on my IG.

It is called Mr Edison as Thomas Edison himself did the electricity in the 2nd floor ballroom.

The Grand Ballroom 2012

I think the one question people write me about or ask me is what is happening to the ballroom, XIX, and the food court. The food court has been renovated and is now a kitchen for food prep for the ballrooms, room service and Cescaphe event spaces in the City.

The Grand Ballroom New Years Eve 2018

In February 2024, it was announced that the hotel’s grand ballroom and other function rooms would no longer be directly operated by the hotel. Instead, since their reopening in April 2024, these spaces have been managed by Cescaphe, a local events firm, under the name The Grand Belle.

This transition aims to enhance the event experience by leveraging Cescaphe’s expertise in managing upscale events.
Cescaphe lead the vision to renovate the event spaces (Wikepedia).

Above in the Grand Ballroom on the 2nd floor. Breathtaking and modern. It’s lighter and more versatile to appeal to all generations. I love the lighting fixture above the stage. At first I didn’t love the pine color floors, but I love them now, especially now seeing the upper floors.

The cocktail reception used to be held in a room off to the side near the glass doors in the back of this photo, and has now taken over the “hallway”, where the coat check and escalators (now removed, I actually have photos of them dismantling them) were located. Now you can reach the 2nd floor via recently uncovered elevators, which are located behind me, in what once was the “green room” with a door.

There is no door anymore, the walls have been removed and it is now part of the cocktail/reception area. Let’s go upstairs… you can still get there via the elevator near the entrance from the garage, or the elevators from the newly renovated first floor lobby, which goes to the 2nd floor ballroom as well, those are the ones which used to be in the “green room” I just spoke about.

What was the restaurant hotel, I have no idea what the name was, but served breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch for guests and the public.

Is now one of the most beautiful event spaces in the City.

The views are breathtaking.

I know people are sad it’s no longer a restaurant, but let’s be real, it was never super packed. It did have spectacular views of the City from their terraces and imagine your event photos including them.

Photo taken October 20

I had my wedding brunch there with my 8 friends, so it holds a special place in my heart for me. I’m excited for it’s new iteration, and for so many others to create special memories in this space.

The entire 19th floor has been refreshed for event and meeting spaces. On the left was the bar, I never knew the name other than the XIX bar, it might have been called the Library, for years bookshelves blocked the grand windows. It was a good hideaway spot, to catch up with friends, grab a bite to eat and hang out with hotel guests who entertained you with stories from home.

Photo taken October 16

The most asked about spot is the XIX restaurant with it’s pearl chandelier, which I didn’t realize consisted of lights until I saw it the other night in the dark.

Back in the 1990s I would see cabarets in this room, before it was a restaurant, with the pearl chandelier. It was just a dark room, with beautiful ornate details.

John Colabelli Photo September 17, 2024

Last week Philly Style Magazine hosted a Power Women luncheon in the space. As you can see it has been significantly changed with the center bar, oyster bar, removed. It’s definitely much more functional, especially for events. Since the summer the XIX th floor has hosted several weddings, special occasions and events. They also have 2 other ballrooms on this floor, which have also been refreshed.

The new hotel lounge/restaurant Pergola located on 19 as well adjacent to the two other ballrooms; it has beautiful views of the Philly skyline, sunrises and the Ben Franklin Bridge. (Back in the day it was also my go to spot to catch lighting storms as it was a hallway, sitting area.)

It will open to the public on November 1, on the official opening of the hotel day. It’s currently serving hotel guests and residents. It’s beautiful, and tasty, with a jazzy sound vibing through out the place.

The rose garden room on the 12th floor, with the fountain is now a private space for residents and hotel guests. Beautifully done!

FINALLY I am thrilled, and grateful to everyone involved for reviving, re invigorating and creating this magnificent space. The “new” Bellevue Hotel is spectacular!! Exceeding any expectation I had. They have truly return it to it’s grandeur, yet created an inviting and exciting modern feel. I can’t wait to shoot events here for many, many years to come. Just incredible!!

THANK YOU!!

PS thank you to everyone involved who helped me with this story over the past 5 years. I really appreciate it.

Socially yours, HughE

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The Best Party in Philly

People always ask me what is the best party in Philly. Well easily Eagles game day comes out on top. It’s embarrassing, Philly Chit Chat for 17 years, an Eagles fan, yet only my 2nd tailgate party.

Sunday was incredibly beautiful, and the traffic was a nightmare getting there. Leave early I was told, I thought 930am was early.

Now I know why people arrive 6 hours before game time, not only to set up the perfect party scenario, but to beat the traffic. Also pre pay for your parking pass, something I didn’t do, and ended up parking near Live Casino, for $45, which actually was a bargain.

These boots are made for….

I love a good swag bag, or giveaway. LaColombe Frothiest was delicious… Hey Michael Newmuis, love your service Eagles jersey.

Philadelphian’s really step up with the spirit, at any given moment their are high fives happening, especially when walking by Xfinity Live, which had the longest line to get in. What a great asset to the stadium area, they really had a vision and it really is a success in spades.

I finally made it to my destination tailgate, my friend Michelle Miller and Todd Herremans joint birthday party!!

A fun time for sure.

Danielle with the popular Eagles mini!!

It was great to see so many chitchatters

I look foward to attending again, soon. Maybe next year, or when it gets colder. They say it’s better when the temperatures are in the 40s?

Check out the outfit Cleveland Brown’s (former Eagles) Rodney McLeod’s wife Erika and family wore, very cool custom jerseys.

Chat soon. Socially yours, HughE

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ChitChat: Jennifer Garner, Gwen Walz Eats a Cheesesteak

Hello Chit Chatters. I know I didn’t keep my promise of publishing at least 3 times a week. It’s a busy season, and to tell you the truth after I shoot an event in the evening I get tired. So sometimes I go out afterwards, I’ve been going to the gym, or sometimes I just chill. I do have plenty to publish so stay tuned. Also I do publish in Philly Mag, Philly Style, Main Line Today and CBSPhilly. Let’s chat…

Actress Jennifer Garner was in town yesterday to meet with the folks from Kamala for Pennsylvania (this is a photo from their IG page.) I got two sightings of her at the Four Seasons yesterday. She had a bite to eat at JG Sky High, was friendly with everyone who said hi, and looked radiant they tell me.

Vice Presidential candidate Tim Walz’s wife Gwen Walz was in town yesterday as well. In the evening she spoke at the Philly Gay News’ (PGN) 48 LGBTQ+ Leaders event, then like a good visitor headed to a favorite spot to enjoy a cheese steak – Jim’s on South Street. She ordered a whiz with and

Posed for photos for those who asked. Look for more celebrity sightings as we head into the final weeks.

Also in town last night was Hillary Rodham Clinton who spoke at the Academy of Music. I heard she was enjoyable and entertaining.

Then I remembered when she was running in 2008 for president, her daughter Chelsea did a gayborhood crawl with PGN’s Mark Segal, Gov Ed Rendell and actor Rob Reiner. I got this shot for Michael Klein’s, then gossip column, Inklings.

Miguel Martinez-Valle Instagram

Ahhh this is so sweet, love these guys. Congratulations to NBC10’s Miguel Martinez-Valle and Comcast’s Ray Smeriglio who got engaged in Cape May over the weekend. They were also honored last night as Philly Gay News’ 48 LGBTQ+ Leaders!!

I don’t know how I missed the Northern Lights last night. I was shooting an event near Penn Valley, and then drove to Old City for another event. The traffic on the Schuylkill was abysmal but I didn’t see a thing. Eventually went to Jersey after the 2nd event a saw a faint pink sky.

They say tonight should be just as good, so I’ll give it another try. Glad I saw them in Charlotte, NC last May. I no longer have to travel to a cold climate for the bucket list chance.

Have a great weekend. Catch me on IG for the latest,

Socially yours, HughE

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About Last Night: PMA Shopping Event at Boyds

Boyds, Philadelphia’s top clothing store established in 1938, is recognized as a family-owned business that has dressed the well-heeled in the area for nearly 90 years, is also well known for it’s philanthropic endeavors.

Andrew Gushner, Boyds Philadelphia and Kent Gushner, President at Boyds Philadelphia, third and fourth generation family members.

Last night Boyds in Center City hosted a charity shopping event to support the upcoming Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, which is happening at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on November 14th.

Aly Green, Niki Ikahihifo-Bender Mailata, Danielle Wolfrom and Emily Rothrock

The craft show is the largest individual fundraiser for the Philadelphia Museum of Art, contributing over $11 million to the institution. These funds help support educational programs, special exhibitions, conservation projects, the acquisition of craft items for displays, and various other initiatives.

Susan Zelouf, Anita Lockhart, Ellen Simon and Nancy C. O’Meara – Director and Craft Show Manager

Now in its 48th year, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show features unique, one-of-a-kind works by artists from across the United States. The 2024 Show will welcome a total of 195 talented artists representing 13 diverse categories of art and design plus 24 guest artists from Italy.

Mark Singer and Barbara Podell, Esq. 30 years ago, Barbara and I worked at the same law firm, when I was a paralegal. She’s on the PMA Craft Show Committee.
Bentley A. Hollander * i love his LinkedIn profile “Free as a bird at Retired and enjoying time with family” and Clara Hollander, co-founder of CraftNOW
Ramonita Farnesi, when not riding roller coasters, she and Greg Seitter, can be found at Boyds where they are top Stylist & Personal Shoppers

Boyds offers complimentary alterations and basic re-alterations for up to one year on all full-price ready-to-wear as well as complimentary parking on site. Two locations: 1818 Chestnut Street Phila, Pa and 201 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne Pa

Kris Christensen, Lois Haggarty and Liddy Lindsey, artist & author. She wrote a fav book I enjoy Opera A- Z, which was very helpful.
Larry and Harriet Weiss

10 percent of each purchase went towards the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show. These scarves are perfect to wear to the 48th Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show preview party on November 14, or the show which continues that weekend November 15th through November 17. Hope to see you there!!

Socially yours, HughE!!

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Night of Lights in Chestnut Hill Thru 10/9

The Chestnut Hill Conservancy held a VIP Preview party for Night of Lights last night. An innovative streetscape exhibition which officially kicks off tonight with the “Flip The Switch” at 8139 Germantown Avenue at 6:45pm.

Night of Lights will transform Chestnut Hill’s main street, Germantown Avenue, into a vibrant nightly streetscape exhibition of local histories and illuminated architecture, projecting archival images from the Conservancy’s and other
archives through seven storefront windows. Colorful lights will highlight often overlooked architectural features of neighboring historic buildings.

Storytellers will be stationed by each slideshow (one per projection site) during opening night to enhance the journey through Chestnut Hill’s rich narrative.

Last night’s VIP Reception was held at the Chestnut Hill Conservancy 8708 Germantown Ave. Friends, and supporters mingled with Conservancy staff and board members while enjoying light sips and bites to celebrate Night of Lights.

Founded in 1967 as the Chestnut Hill Historical Society, the Chestnut Hill Conservancy is an educational
center and advocate organization for the architecture, open space, and social history of Chestnut Hill and
surrounding communities.

Chrissy Clawson and Ashley Maass

I love Chestnut Hill, not only for it’s quaint atmosphere, but it’s shopping. Make sure you stop by Serendipity!!

Ellen Javers, Bill Webster and Deborah P.
Rep Tarik Khan and Lori Salganicoff, Executive Director Chestnut Hill Conservancy. It’s her last year and they are looking for a director now if you’d like to apply.
I ran into the Watkin’s family shopping at Weaver Way. Mr Watkin’s is a long time ChitChatter. – Thanks

TONIGHT: Everything kicks off with a “Flip the Switch” ceremony on opening night that will see representatives of the Chestnut Hill Conservancy and the other local
community leaders turn on the lights of the streetscape exhibition.

Christa Hackenberge and Joseph C. Kotarski Jr.

Following the opening ceremony, kickoff festivities will include storytellers at each of the seven
themed projection windows, music from various acts, including local jazz group Limited Time Only (LTO), MilkBoy co-founder Tommy Joyner’s Pep Rally, as well as entertainment from Maplewood Music Studios (including the Rich Rudin Trio and Ralph Salerno). An Ask the Archivists table provides more family-
friendly interactive activities — all concluding at 9 pm

As I mentioned Lori is leaving and they are conducting an executive director search. CLICK here for Info!!

See you tonight, or this weekend or anytime through October 9th. The weather is going to be fantastic.

Socially Yours, HughE