Author: HughE Dillon

Philadelphia the City of Firsts, kicks off Philly Pride Month with the unfurling of the longest Pride Flag at 400 feet, on the Philadelphia Art Museum Steps, the most famous steps in the USA. I attended one of the first Pride parades in Philly, about 35 years ago, organized by Franny Price. She and her team ran it successfully for 30 years. She’s now the Mayor of The Borough of Folcroft. Last year it was resurrected under a new team, and under a new concept, produced by Galaei no cars or floats, and then ends in the Gayborhood with a day long festival. It was a lot of fun in 2023, so I hope to see you there Sunday. Here’s the story…

3:00pm – Independence Mall 

The 400 foot flag will be displayed at 5th and Market

4:00pm – Taller Puertorriqueno, Inc 

The flag will travel to 2600 N 5th St for display 

5:30pm – Manayunk Bridge

Manayunk Development Corporation, Aversa PR, Philly Publicist and Philly Pride Month will team up to bring the flag to the top of the Manayunk Bridge where the flag will unfold at the marker connecting the city to the suburbs at the Main Line/Manayunk Marker 

* Media needing parking for this please let Kory know as soon as possible 

* This is a great helicopter opportunity 

7:30pm – Franklin Institute 

The flag will unfold outside the Franklin Institute which will also be presenting their Summer Art Ball in partnership with Galaei 

8:00pm – Gayborhood

The flag will end with a street closure at 13th and Locust in the famous Gayborhood in Midtown Village 

From there, the flag will be put away and officially debut in the Philadelphia March and Festival on Sunday, June 2nd, with the flag launching at 10:30am at 6th and Walnut. 

“Galaei is Queer, Trans, Black, Brown, Indigenous, and People of Color radical social justice organization serving the Latine/a/o/x community while widening our embrace. Galaei provides services, support, and advocacy for all QTBIPOC communities. Galaei mobilizes for access, opportunity, sexual empowerment, and economic justice while overcoming systemic oppression, structural racism, discrimination, and white supremacy.

Philly Pride 365: A Program of Galaei is inviting the entire LGBTQ+ community and allies to “Be You” in 2024 for the occasion, which starts at 6th and Walnut at 10:30 a.m., no registration required (note, no floats or vehicles permitted.) When the March reaches the Gayborhood, the Festival will begin, running from noon to 7 p.m., on Walnut to Pine streets, and Quince to Juniper streets, with other select roads closed around the festival footprint. More INFO HERE

Pride Month Drag Tea
Benefits the Mazzoni Center
Saturday, June 8, 2024 AND Saturday, June 22, 2024
2:00pm to 4:00pm
at Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square

Sofitel Philadelphia returns with the most celebrated drag tea in Philadelphia with two exclusive dates this year: Saturday June 8 and Saturday June 22. Look for a new spin on a time-honored tradition. Sofitel, famous for its classic afternoon tea service, will debut a new Drag Tea featuring Brittany Lynn’s Drag Mafia. Sip tea (or spill it) in the presence of fabulous Drag Queens as you enjoy delicious offerings from Sofitel’s award-winning culinary team. Drag Tea starts each week at 2:00pm and runs through 4:00pm inside Chez Colette Brasserie. Come ready to be entertained as you enjoy classics, like scones, tea sandwiches, pastries and Palais Des Thes (selection of nine different teas for you to choose) – plus your choice of a Champagne, Mimosa or Bellini. Tickets are $65 per person for standard drag tea service, or $75 with bottomless Champagne, Mimosas and Bloody Marys. Five dollars from each purchase will be donated to the Mazzoni Center. Tickets are available at bit dot ly/pridetea24

New! Pride Our Night Out
Presented by the Delaware Valley Legacy Fund
Thursday, June 20, 2024
6:00pm to 9:00pm
at Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square

Looking forward to seeing everyone Sunday and through out June at so many festive events. Thank you to all the brave souls who came out before us, were loud and proud so that we can live loud and proud in a more accepting environment. Socially yours, HughE

(The Story of The Kelce’s is towards the bottom; Monday someone sent me the video. I was at the Longport Memorial Day Parade, and a friend of the women told me how it went down. I knew the video would get out so I tweeted the back story. It got out, and now we know the backstory, and I’m glad I got the story out before the video. )

June is at our doorstep. Spring went by so quickly, and wow the weather was dismal. BUT the weather over the Memorial Day Weekend was spectacular. I headed to Margate for the weekend, but first stopped off at my favorite bird watching spot, under the Ocean City Bridge, at the Welcome Center located in the middle of the bridge. Stop by to get info on Ocean City highlights, but don’t forget to check out the bird sanctuary located below, where many sea birds have nests, and you can watch the baby birds hatch, all the way to fledgling through out the summer months.

Spotted last week at McGillin’s and the Reading Terminal Market — Actress Martha Plimpton. Folks at McGillin’s said she was really nice, posing for pictures and she loved the McGillin’s 1860 IPA. Here’s a photo with some McGillin’s staffers (L-R):  Erin Meronyck, Martha, Peggy O’Leary, Gaby Gock Rubery. Martha was in The Goonies, Parenthood and Frozen II. No word on why she was in town, but on her Instagram she has a few city highlights.

Kylie and Jason Kelce spent the weekend at the Jersey Shore, specifically Sea Isle where it’s been reported they live. Beach goers told me Jason was friendly and posed with lots of kids when asked. A TikTokker spotted Kylie on a morning walk, but respected her boundaries, as she said she knew it was the only time both of them had peace in the morning. Kylie responded to her on her TikTok saying she’d look out for her in the future.

Saturday evening Jason and Kylie headed to Steve & Cookies by the Sea on a date night with another couple. (Which I did post Sunday night, when I ate there. I put on my IG Stories they were there the night before)

As they pulled into the parking lot, they needed to wait for a spot to open, as is always the case when you eat there, but turnover is fairly quick about 10 minutes. As Jason’s famous car idled there, a women walked up to the famous Tesla truck and began banging on it to get Jason’s attention. K&J got out to find out what was going on. The women then asked for a photo with her family. He declined, it wasn’t a good time, and she screamed at him “How Dare You Say No!!” The women went ballistic after not getting her way. (BTW there is a video of her banging on the truck, I don’t have that one but I know several people who have seen it?? Also the man in the photo, was with the Kelce’s, he wasn’t manhandling her as someone commented, they were having dinner with him and his wife, who are connected to the Eagles organization.)

Not one to shy away, Kylie defended their decision, as the women shouted the Kelce’s would never be welcomed in Margate again. The women got into Kylie’s face, and not one to shy away Kiley gave it right back to her, telling her to just shut up you’re embarrassing yourself as Kylie’s friend (in blue) encouraged her to break away and go into the restaurant.

The Duchess of Delco, defends her man. (my reader dubbed her that when I posted the above Tweet to discuss in details the incident, as I had seen the video Monday morning.)

A good rule of thumb. When someone says this isn’t a good time for a photo, or they’re out for a night. Take NO as the gospel truth and don’t make a spectacle of yourself. If you really want to meet Jason Kelce buy a ticket to the OD on June 26th for the Autism Awareness Fundraiser.

Despite that dust up, people told me the couple had a lovely evening, laughing and enjoying their meals. A few people walked by their table to say hi, the only one who stopped by was Michael Rubin, owner of the Sixers, but I haven’t had a double confirmation on him being there.
After Dinner Jason hung at the outside bar with new friends. Later they were spotted at Tomatoes down the street, hanging out with the crowds, unbothered. They did stop by Memories first but moved on as it was packed, and the line was wrapped around the block.

And just like regular people, they headed home Monday and were stuck in traffic on the AC Expressway around 6pm, according to a reader who sent me a photo of his much famous Tesla truck and all it’s bumper stickers.

Listen to it here

Hughe’s Note: People questioned why did I do the tweet yesterday, before the video surfaced? I knew the video would surface, and the 8 second clip doesn’t tell the back story. I didn’t want to publish the video, but I wanted to make sure people knew the confrontation was over someone wanting a photo.

I’m comfortable with my decision. The other night someone sent me the video of the fight on the Boardwalk in OC. I decided not to run that either. Both were very volatile.

Would it have come out if I didn’t do the series of tweets, I don’t know. I’ll never know, but what we do know is it was a provoke response, by a rude person, who wanted a photo.

PS there’s no reason to ID this women, or harass her. Enough people know her. No doubt she won’t be in Margate for awhile.

I’ll be down the shore a lot this summer. Hit me up, I’m around.

Socially Yours, HughE

Last week Friday, May 17, the Philly PHLASH® kicked off its 2024 season with daily service from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., connecting residents and visitors to the city’s most iconic attractions. 

Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation (PVCC) President and CEO Kathryn Ott Lovell joined Visit Philadelphia, SEPTA, and elected officials for a press event to celebrate PHLASH’s 30^th year in service and share updates about the 2024 season.  

Bill Gehrman. Founder & CEO of En Route, Kathryn Ott Lovell, President of Phila Visitor Center and Neil Frauenglass, chief marketing officer of Visit Philadelphia

Councilmember Mark Squilla represents City Council’s First District

The Philly PHLASH is an award-winning transportation service in downtown Philadelphia, providing a safe, reliable, affordable way for visitors and locals planning a stay or a day to explore the City of Brotherly Love’s must-see destinations. Beginning May 17 through September 2, PHLASH will operate daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., providing service to each of its 19 stops every 15 minutes.   

Heading out for the first loop: Philadelphia Visitors Center Corporation President and CEO Kathryn Ott Lovell City of Philadelphia Councilmember Mark Squilla Philadelphia City Representative Jazelle Jones  SEPTA Chief of Staff Liz Smith and Visit Philly Chief Marketing Officer Neil Frauenglass 

About Philly PHLASH The Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop seasonal transit program is managed by the Independence Visitor Center Corporation (IVCC). PHLASH vehicle service is provided by Krapf’s Coaches. For more information about the PHLASH, visit www.phillyPHLASH.com or call 800-537-7676. 

On Tuesday May 14, Wawa Welcome America president and CEO Michael DelBene shared the news of all the fun, free events which will be happening during the annual July 4th celebrations in Philadelphia at the perfect spot, City Hall courtyard. The center of everything in Philly.

The who’s who of Philadelphia hospitality industry were on hand to hear the news, many of who were hosting events during the 16 day event. This year there were more collaborations happening than in any other year I recall, including several sponsors supporting the efforts. Bravo!! Thank you!!

Geoff Gordon, Live Nation Philadelphia’s regional president, Joseph Cacchione, MD CEO of Jefferson Health and Thomas Jefferson University and Jazelle Jones, City Representative and Director of Special Events, (for more than a decade working behind the scenes, Jazelle has been the head of Director of Special Events, working hand in hand with the City Representative office on events; now heading both departments.)

Another behind the scenes person, who does so much for City events, Brenda Goldsmith. She works on the production side of many of the large public events, as well as the 6ABC Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Tournament of the Roses Parade, and the Washington DC holiday events along with event producer Todd Marcocci, who was also on hand, but I didn’t get a photo.

Brittany Lynn aka Ian Morrison Queen of the Drag Mafia, with PR extraordinaire Brandon Szeker

First Person Arts (FPA) announces their First Person Arts Festival line-up with headliners: Marc Lamont Hill, Betty J. Smithsonian, Roxanne Gay, and Chris Gethard. The festival will take place from June 29th-July 2nd in various parts of the city, and is proud to be partnered with Wawa Welcome America!

Michael Norris, Executive Director of Carpenter’s Hall. The year 2024 rings in the 300th year of The Carpenters’ Company of The City and County of Philadelphia. It likewise signals the 250th anniversary of Carpenters’ Hall and The First Continental Congress. We are excited to announce a year of exciting programming to celebrate this one of a kind occasion- the hallmark event being the Young People’s Continental Congress.

Sorry Keystone Ken, I think you’re swell. Super clever too, everyone knows you’re the Pennsylvania Keystone, and I get it, you’re Red, White and Blue too!!

The legendary Patty Jackson was on hand as the Dell Music Center will be partnering with Welcome America this year for festivities, many of which she hosts as MC. AND Don’t forget Patty’s Party in the Park at the end of the summer. Here’s the Dell Music Center’s Schedule

Radio personality, life coach, legend Dyana Williams, and legend in my mind Laura Burkhardt, executive director of Avenue of the Arts, who celebrates Welcome America with a block party on Saturday, June 29, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on South Broad Street between Walnut and Pine streets.

The night before “Join us as we celebrate Black Music Month, which was founded in Philadelphia.  Hosted and curated by Philadelphia music legend Dyana Williams, this brand new celebration will feature multiple different expressions of black music, performed by some of Philadelphia’s most well-known and sought-after black musicians. Guests will be treated to incredible music, food, and cocktails under the stars at the iconic Dell Music Center.  This event is presented in partnership with The Recording Academy Philadelphia Chapter.

The event takes place on Friday, June 28, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Dell Music Center on 2400 Strawberry Mansion Drive.”

Mayor Cherelle Parker reciting the One City United Pledge. She’s strong on messaging, and has made many hard decisions already in her less than 200 days in office. On stage is Chris Gheysens serves as the CEO / President of Wawa, Geoff Gordon, Live Nation, Jazelle Jones, City Representative, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, Managing Director Adam Thiel, Michael DelBene, President & CEO, Welcome America, Inc and Elizabeth Flores, Vice President of News for NBC10 and Telemundo62.

Executive Director of First Person Arts, Jamie J Brunson and about the best friend anyone could want, Michael Newmuis, Philadelphia’s new 2026 Director, who lights up the room when ever he walks in the door. His new job keeps him busy, so these days we send a lot of emojis & memes to each other, just to let each other know we’re alive and kicking, with the occasional 7/11 snack run thrown in. I think you’re going to love his plan to celebrate the nations 250th Anniversary.

For more info on the entertainment, as well as the robust schedule for Wawa Welcome America, head to NBC10 Philadelphia All Things July 4th Press Conference Page

The Asian Arts Initiative’s has many great events, and programs serving the community. Recently I attended the opening teception of Asian Arts Initiative’s (AAI) Spring exhibition, Dream House: Inside Music + Video , attended by art lovers, creatives and supporters to see the exhibition highlighting the shifting roles of music video as a hybrid form of creative expression beyond their musical and cinematic quality as promotional tools of the music industry. The exhibition featured eleven local and international artists.

Asian Arts Initiative is a multidisciplinary arts center offering exhibitions, performances, artist residencies, youth workshops, and a community gathering space located in Philadelphia’s Chinatown North neighborhood, Asian Arts Initiative (AAI) at 1219 Vine Street.

MILFADELPHIA: The Fashion Show! 

Join AAI for our annual benefit as we celebrate the Moms in our lives – our Mothers, Mamas, Nanays, Ummas, Mom friends, work Moms – with a one-of-a-kind event, MILFADELPHIA: The Fashion Show! (Mothers I Love in Fashion). Everyone & their mother will be there! INFO & TICKETS

As one of the very few Asian American community arts centers in the country, the Asian Arts Initiative is a unique and vital civic space where artists and everyday people can think critically and creatively about the experiences of Asian Americans in Philadelphia.

The Asian Arts Initiative is a meeting place for people who lack access to mainstream media, education, and arts because of barriers of language, culture, race, and money, but is welcomed place for all.

Donors Are Heroes in support of Gift of Life Donor Program on Thursday, April 11th, 2024 held a truly FUN-FILLED evening of FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENT night of Drag Bingo.

Rest in Peace Don Freeman, co-founder with his wife Renee of Donors Are Heroes. Founded in 2001

Donors are Heroes is a group of volunteers dedicated to supporting Gift of Life Donor Program.

The best damn Drag Queen Brittany Lynn in the US of A. Book her and her girls.

Morgan Wells giving her best Beyonce performing Texas Hold Em!!

Eric David Belts one out

It definitely was a blast, as I was at Parc and I overheard people talk about what a good time it was. Thanks to Kathy Leister for photographing it.

The 25th Anniversary Celebration of PennFuture took place Thursday, April 11, 2024, at the National Constitution Center 

During the 25th Anniversary Celebration, they honored the progress made to make Pennsylvania a leading force in combating climate change nationally and the role PennFuture played in defending communities against pollution and environmentally harmful policies.

Founded in 1998, PennFuture aims to tackle critical environmental issues through legal, policy, education, and communications strategies. Over the years, it has emerged as a leader in promoting clean energy infrastructure, protecting communities from air pollution, and safeguarding the state’s valuable streams.

“Our member support has been instrumental in achieving significant environmental milestones, from securing legal protections for valuable ecosystems to advancing pro-environmental legislation and empowering communities most burdened by legacy pollution and systemic racism,” said Annie Regan, PennFuture’s Campaigns Director. “Real progress is made in policy shifts. It takes people speaking up and raising awareness to these issues that we’ll see positive changes.”

“PennFuture has worked over a quarter century to make advancements towards improved water quality, cleaner energy, and energy efficiency,” said PennFuture’s President & CEO Patrick McDonnell. “While that progress has been significant, it is crucial that we build on those victories to prevent the most severe consequences of climate change and ensure a healthy environment for future generations.

Our objective now is to fight for meaningful carbon reductions through cap and invest and renewable standards programs and to ensure water quality programs receive a stable source of funding.”

Philadelphia Honorees: 

• Climate Champion Award: Michael E. Mann, climate scientist, professor, and author
• Lifetime Achievement Award: Joseph Otis Minott, environmental attorney and former executive director of the Clean Air Council
• Champion of the Environment Award: Rep. Napoleon Nelson, state representative for District 154
• Volunteer Award: Peg Church, an environmental advocate from Bethlehem

Thanks to Talya Hailey, Philly Chit Chat team member for capturing.