Author: HughE Dillon

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Around Town With HughE

Scene: The Arthaus Grand Opening; Open House This Weekend

Earlier this week, the much anticipated Arthaus hosted their grand opening for guests, builders, VIPS and residents. It did not disappoint. The 47-story development with 108 residences, is located along the famed Avenue of the Arts directly across the street from the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.

Roberta Dranoff, Meryl Levitz, Judge Midge Rendell, Laura Burkhart, executive director of the Avenue of the Arts, Karen Corbin, Chief Operating Officer of The Philly POPS and Diane Semingson, ChairChair
Avenue of the Arts, Inc.
Carl Dranoff, Dranoff Properties and Gene Kohn, Kohn Pedersen Fox
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The Grand Opening celebration continues this weekend at Arthaus 12 – 5 (Sat. and Sun.). The public is invited to tour Philadelphia’s hottest new luxury address from top to bottom. What will you see? Stunning panoramic city views from the 42nd floor | Sumptuously decorated penthouse by interior designer @jimmydelaurentis | Five other decorated residences | Two full floors of indoor + outdoor resort amenities that make every day feel like vacation.

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Scene: Philadelphia Fall Arts Fest 2022

Saturday was a beautiful day. Not only was the weather a 10, but the Avenue of the Arts was a buzz with activity, especially on the Kimmel Cultural Campus and inside the Kimmel Center.

The Kimmel Cultural Campus and The Philadelphia Orchestra kick off Philadelphia’s robust arts and cultural season with Philadelphia Fall Arts Fest, a day of FREE festival-style performances, the chance to interact with more than 50 arts organizations from across the region, and $20 tickets to a selection of over 100 events!

The opening night of OTELLO and the start of FESTIVAL O22 at Opera Philadelphia on FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23rd , 2022! 

Opening Night Celebration of Philadelphia Orchestra with Yannick Nézet-Séguin Conductor 
Lang Lang Piano , BalletX Christine Cox Artistic Director is September 28.

Though in-person programming is at the forefront of the Orchestra’s season, Digital Stage concerts will continue, featuring seven pre-recorded performances and audience favorites from last season. Highlights include a performance from the Orchestra’s 2022 Bravo! Vail Music Festival residency, and the recent Musikfest Berlin concert from the 2022 European Festivals Tour. Each performance will begin with a premiere, streaming in real time for viewers. Following the premiere, the online concert video will be available for ticket holders to watch on demand for one week. A complete listing of each Digital Stage program is included below and more details are available at www.philorch.org/digitalstage.

Kimmel Cultural Campus and The Philadelphia Orchestra are excited to welcome the Philadelphia community to kick off the 2022-23 season. “We are eager to once again bring thousands of arts and entertainment lovers, uniting the Philadelphia community as a sequel to the 2021’s Arts Launch.“

Philadelphia Ballet has a robust season coming up, and are breaking ground on their new North Broad space in a few weeks. Check out the schedule for the new season 2022/2023

The Avenue of the Arts was on hand to discuss all the exciting happenings on Broad Street; Home to one the most vibrant and successful performing arts, residential, educational, commercial, and tourist destinations in the United States.

I think we all love attending Broadway on Broad Street at the Kimmel Center. RAISES HAND VERY HIGH FOR The Tina Turner Musical!! Check out the rest of the schedule HERE

Stay tuned for the Center City Districts – Dinner and a Show specials, launching soon. And follow
the Kimmel Cultural Campus site for info on all the shows, events and special evenings happening !!

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Around Town With HughE

Sugar Factory Closes? Natalie Dormer spotted Filming Audrey’s Children & Iroquois Returns

Thanks to Nicole Michalik for tipping me off on the possible closing of Sugar Factory on Chestnut Street in Center City.

I headed over yesterday to see for myself, and sure enough there is a sign on the window saying “Closed Permanently”

They were always packed so I was surprised they closed this spot. I see the named key chains were popular.

If they have indeed closed, someone needs to jump on this beauty of event space.

I called to confirm, but no one answered. Open Table says they’re having plumbing problems. Calendar is taking reservations for 10/2/22. Cross your fingers, they will return.

In spring 2022, the Association for Public Art (aPA) temporarily removed Mark di Suvero’s Iroquois sculpture from Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway for major conservation restoration. Acquired and installed by aPA in 2007 thanks to the generous support of the late David Pincus, the red-orange I-beam sculpture was in need of a thorough paint job after 15 years of being exposed to the elements, which left the surface faded, chipped, and worn. This week the Iroquois returns with a fresh, brighter look as part of a PA’s 150th anniversary.

Thanks to my husband, Mike Toub for taking this shot Audrey’s Childre of Natalie Dormer filming on 9/13/22 at the future home of the African American Museum at 18th and Vine.

I’ve been so busy, I haven’t had a chance to photograph the latest movie filming in Philly, thank you to my readers for your tips:

“Audrey’s Children“, a biopic about the incredible true story of Dr. Audrey Evans, co-founder of the original Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia in 1974!

For an entire week it filmed only a few blocks from my house. On Sunday it filmed around City Hall. I hear it’s soon going inside buildings to get “hospital scenes.”

“In 1970 when nearly all children with cancer die, an unconventional and brilliant oncologist breaks all the rules in an effort to revolutionize treatment methods and to provide housing and support to families of sick children,” reads the film’s IMDb page

 The New Park at Penn’s Landing Gets Final Design Approval from Art Commission (Source)
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SCENE: B. PHL Happened A Few Highlights

Michael Vennera, IBX, Dave Silver, Amplify Philly and Michelle Freeman, Witty Gritty did a fantastic job producing B. PHL 2022. The flow of the programs were seamless. This is a must do for you in 2023 to gain knowledge and network.

I first attended B. PHL in 2019. I describe it as similar to a think tank where creators, connectors, business leaders, entrepreneurs share advice and ideas on how to better understand connectives with each other, business as well as how to help the community together. I really enjoy attending it, and always leave inspired.

Dr. Philip McCallion, director of the School of Social Work at Temple University; Dr. Chidinma Nwakanma, Penn Medicine emergency medicine physician. Dr. Jerome Adams, former U.S. Surgeon General; Independence President and CEO Greg E. Deavens

B. PHL was founded and created by Independence Blue Cross in 2019 to create meaningful connections locally and globally between people and organizations doing innovative work and igniting new ideas to inspire change makers of the future.

I spent the first day at B.PHL specifically attending the following talks

The Intersection of Health and Gun Violence
Sept. 9, 10:55 to 11:55 a.m. | In-Person at Location 215 and streamed virtually
Independence President and CEO Greg E. Deavens will moderate a discussion about the effects of gun violence on physical and mental health. Panelists will include Dr. Jerome Adams, former U.S. Surgeon General; Dr. Philip McCallion, director of the School of Social Work at Temple University; and Dr. Chidinma Nwakanma, Penn Medicine emergency medicine physician.

It was a really good session, I heard compelling solutions for building a foundation to curb gun violence. One standout was “Clean and Green”. Cleaning neighborhood blocks, cleaning up graffiti, tearing down abandoned buildings. Creating pride in a neighborhood. Seeking volunteers from all over the region to help achieve these goals. It benefits us all, and we all do want to find a solution.

Dr. Sophia Ononye-Onyia, owner and principal of the Sophia Consulting Firm; Independence’s Executive Director of Health Equity Dr. Seun Ross , Dr. Frank Franklin, Deputy Health Commissioner of the Philadelphia Department of Health and senior program manager of the Field Building and Resources department at the Camden Coalition of Healthcare Providers.

Social Determinants of Mental Health
Sept. 9, 12 to 12:45 p.m. | In-Person at Location 215 and streamed virtually
Independence’s Executive Director of Health Equity Dr. Seun Ross will participate in a panel discussion about the social factors that have been linked to mental health. She will join Dr. Sophia Ononye-Onyia, owner and principal of the Sophia Consulting Firm; Dr. Frank Franklin, Deputy Health Commissioner of the Philadelphia Department of Health and senior program manager of the Field Building and Resources department at the Camden Coalition of Healthcare Providers.

A great session focusing on authenticity, and representation. Understanding social trauma, and triggers which occur in our lives, lessening the impact on children. Do they really need to watch the news? Being aware of how news affects their mental health.

(Which reminds me the Phila Out of the Darkness Walk is October 2)

Independence’s Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer Crystal Ashbywill be part of a panel addressing the future of the workplace (2nd from left). Campus Philly President Dr. Jen Kebea (r)

This was a fascinating session The Future of Work: Where, Why, and How Gen Z Wants to Work, with a packed house of Gen Z’s. Gone are the days of workers really committing their entire lives to a 9 to 5 that later turned into 60 hr weeks. Maybe it was the pandemic pause, where people realized there was more to work than giving your entire life over to your job. Another thing I heard was when people worked from home, they were working more than when they were in the office. There wasn’t anything going on to distract most people, especially Gen Z. The computer was right there in there living space. People tended to work longer hours. Creating burn out.

The conversation turned to Quiet Quitting, which I misunderstood before this session. I thought it was only not giving a job a 110 percent effort. That might be part of it, but for the other part, who knew I had already done 15 years ago. It’s working your 9 to 5, then delving into your creative side, like starting a blog and covering events after work. That’s what I did, to create a more exciting, purposeful life for me. These days with TikTok, doing it for the gram or taking night classes, creating and selling your art or whatever, that is part of quiet quitting. It’s not just stepping back from grueling work, and becoming a couch potato. It’s finding your passion. Now your passion, can be your work. Which was definitely my case before the pandemic.

(But now my new quiet quitting is making time to enjoy life and working less.)

I did enjoy what Independence’s Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer Crystal Ashby had to say. She really understands the work place, and stated that at IBX they have 4 generations working for them, and they must understand how to work with them, what their needs are, stressing now with post pandemic life what does that mean, will workers be more productive in a hybrid situation, exploring ideas on transportation issues, office set ups and breaks during the day. Ashby knows that most workers want connections to co-workers, celebrating each others milestones is important to the office culture and a feeling of connectivity, and they enjoy working with their employees to create a harmonious work place.

I’m always curious about what the generations are: Baby Boomers (born 1946–1964) Generation X (born 1965–1980) Millennials (born 1981–1995) Generation Z (born 1996–2010)

I can assure you as someone who worked in the office culture for 25 years before becoming PCC, this is a new idea of thinking, and welcomed. I like the post pandemic world.

Check out the B.PHL Youtube Page for a few videos of last weeks events, and stay tuned for more uploads. AND don’t miss next year’s B.PHL. You’ll thank me!

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Scene: Bourbon Bash Kicks Off Fall Social Season

September feels like a New Year. The Fall Social Season is in full bloom. I am booked through October, people are excited to be out.   I haven’t seen any trees changing colors yet, but just as the door closed on summer, in a matter of moments the leaves will be falling, sweater season will be here, and Halloween. Which brings me to today’s event. The Loews Hotel 6th Annual Bourbon Bash in Center City, where I asked several guests if they’re in the fall mood yet…

Executive Chefs, Thomas Harkins and Joe Thomas (c) and their staff of Bank and Bourbon at the 6th Annual Bourbon Bash inside Loews Hotel Philadelphia, Wednesday, September 07, 2022.

Executive Chefs Thomas Harkins and Joe Thomas’ prepared some of his signature dishes including Corn Cakes with Tomato Marmalade, Beef Tartare on Crispy Fingerling Potato, west coast oysters; dry-aged steak; blackened Sixty South Salmon and Crab Fritters with Spicy Remoulade.

Proceeds from Bourbon Bash benefit DonorsChoose.org, an organization that supports educational needs and programs in the Tri-State area. Over the 5 years, Bank & Bourbon has donated over $50,000 in supplies to our local school teachers and students to improve the quality of education and touched over 15,000 students!

Jabari Cherry, Jasmine Armstrong and Sheryl Brown of Visit Philly

Alicia Dannibale, admitted that she is ready for the cooler weather and has put out pumpkin decor in the home as a first step, and Chris Angelis

Greg and Rachel Georges were looking forward to enjoying another Bank & Bourbon meal. Rachel told me she is ready for the autumn season and when September 1 arrived she put out her pumpkin candles.

Trinh and Troy

Welcome Andrew Kozak to Philly. He started this past week as the new meteorologist.

Ready for Pumpkin season!!

Featured bourbons will be from Beam-Suntory and include brands such as Bakers, Bookers, Old Overholt Bonded, Basil Hayden, Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey, Maker’s Mark 46, and Knob Creek, among others.

Josh Moore (Josh East Philly )and Tom DeStefano. Not only have they had multiple pumpkin spice coffees, but the duo already have strung the holiday lights at their new home.

The Peanut and Butter Jelly Crunch Popsicle are ones I will be dreaming about….

Bank & Bourbon features an innovative barrel-aging program for house-aged liquors and creative cocktails under the guidance of our experienced Bourbon Masters, and an inherently American menu by Chef Joe Thomas that offers creative, seasonal interpretations of classic dishes – all in a comfortable, relaxed setting.

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Scene: Rivers Party on the Pier, September Promos, and Debbie Gibson

Rivers Casino Philadelphia celebrated Labor Day by hosting a Party on the Pier on Sunday, Sept. 4.

The free, family-friendly event also included games, face painting, balloon artists and plenty of free parking. With this event’s live music, dancing and waterfront views accompanied by fireworks, guests are in for a real treat.

The event featured a live performance from The Ultimate Donna Summer Tribute, performed by Rainere Martin. Guests can celebrate with free swag, food trucks and fireworks to close out the night.

DJ Jazzy Jeff – Saturday, Sept. 17 at 10 p.m.

Get ready for a free, fun, “flipped, turned upside down” night when West Philadelphia native DJ Jazzy Jeff continues his residency at Rivers Casino Philadelphia.

Guests will be dancing to Jeff’s energetic mix of classics, chart-topping hits and more when he takes over the Jack’s Bar + Grill stage for a free show on Sept. 17.

Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes – Saturday, Sept. 24 at 8 p.m.

Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes emerged from the New Jersey shore scene in 1974 and carried over a significant influence from Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band. The band is well known for high-energy shows and no-holds-barred songs, including “I Don’t Wanna Go Home,” “Havin’ a Party,” and “This Time It’s For Real.” Tickets are on sale now starting at $19.

Legs N’ Eggs Drag Brunch — Sunday, Sept. 25, at 1 p.m.

From the creators of Aunt Mary Pat, SoulJoel Productions presents Legs N’ Eggs, hosted by Miss Troy. Through the artists’ multiple costume changes, guests will enjoy performances by look-alike Britney Spears, Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston and more.

The breakfast menu features bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys, eggs, sausage, French toast, potatoes, juices, and coffee and tea. Guests will enjoy cabaret-style seating at their own dedicated tables. This recurring event is on the fourth Sunday of every month. Tickets are on sale now for $45.

Aunt Mary Pat – Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 7 p.m.

Aunt Mary Pat first came onto the scene in early 2018 through a viral video after the historic Birds Super Bowl win! Since then, she’s performed more than 100 unique shows for thousands of people. In early 2019, after a successful Kickstarter campaign, she released her debut comedy album “Talk of the Township.” Tickets are on sale now starting at $20.

Jack’s Bar + Grill Live Music

Guests can move and groove to live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays in September from 8 p.m. to midnight. Guests can also enjoy Young at Heart ’60s & ’70s on select Wednesdays in September from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Sing Like a Star Live Band Karaoke every Thursday in September from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Young at Heart: Jack’s Bar + Grill — Young at Heart members ages 50 and older will receive unlimited soup and salad for $9.99 at Jack’s Bar + Grill on Wednesdays in September.

The BetRivers Sportsbook is the place to watch and wager on all the September sports action. Guests can play Home Field Advantage: Spin to Win when the Birds host Minnesota on Monday, Sept. 19 at 8:30 p.m. Sports bettors who place qualifying game-day bets can enter the contest for a chance to win Free Play, cash and two tickets to a Birds home game.

Also, guests can have Jack’s Bar + Grill menu items delivered right to their seat for the Birds’ Monday night game. The restaurant’s full menu will be available in the sportsbook and includes game-day favorites like Liberty Bell pretzels, chicken wings and loaded nachos. Menu service in the sportsbook also will be available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Singer, songwriter, producer, musician and actor Debbie Gibson is bringing her holiday tour, Winterlicious: An Evening of Holiday and Hits, to Rivers Casino Philadelphia this December. The Event Center performance will be on Saturday, Dec. 3, at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $29 and go on sale Friday, Sept. 16.

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Bhavna Shyamalan & Kristine Carroll Vibe Vault Fit Open House September 11

At Vibe Vault Fit in Exton, PA, Kristine Carroll and Bhavna Shyamalan have created a tight-knit community of people on a journey to all-encompassing fitness and wellness. Kristine comes from an athletic background, having competed as an NCAA All-American cheerleader, and then going on to direct and choreograph in the collegiate cheer world. Kristine is an experienced fitness professional having owned and managed a successful fitness studio and teaching various fitness formats since she was 18.. Bhavna , Ph.D. serves as co-founder and vice president of the M. Night Shyamalan Foundation, which strives to remove the barriers of poverty globally. She also has an expansive background in psychology and a deep understanding of the mind, and overall wellbeing. Bhavna (a.k.a. Dr. B) entered the fitness world in 2011 and has taught dance fitness since. Though coming from two different backgrounds, Bhavna and Kristine share one common goal – “to unlock your inner vibe through body, mind, and soul work”. That is exactly what they do at Vibe Vault Fit.

Vibe Vault Fit is not just a fitness studio. It is a place where you belong and are known by name. It is a
community of mostly women who are on a journey together to empower each other and achieve ultimate
health together. On Sunday, September 11th, they will be hosting an open house, and they would love to
meet you. Come experience twenty-minute demonstrations of their class offerings, see their approach to
wellness, and enjoy local vendors from the community. This event is completely free and open to the
public. Giveaways and a chance to sign up for 2 weeks of free classes makes this an event not to
miss. If you need a positive shift in your life. This is the moment. Registration is live on their app
now! (Visit: www.vibevaultfit.com).

Vibe Vault Fit is a boutique fitness studio offering a variety of fun music-driven classes
including Dance Fitness, Barre, Pound, BEAT HIIT, Power Fusion, Yoga, and Personal Training. They
offer something for everyone, regardless of fitness level. And yet, Vibe Vault Fit does not focus on just
physical fitness. That is because they aim to help people reach their full potential through holistic health.
Bhavna and Kristine believe that full potential is unlocked at the intersection of body, mind, and soul
wellness. One cannot exist without the others. How do they achieve that? By providing an environment
that is welcoming to all.

Bhavna Shyamalan and Kristine Carroll co-founders of Vibe Vault Fit

The studio is nothing short of a family that strives to know you as a person.
They are interested in people as whole beings. In addition to their fitness offerings, they provide several
wellness resources, like bi-weekly meditation workshops. They even have a Pod-squad, where they
come together to discuss podcasts that they have been listening to and learning from. Wellness
workshops have spanned from community gatherings focused on creating vision boards, practicing
mindful eating, and discussions addressing issues ranging from living authentically to happiness hacks.

Vibe Vault Fit is also partnering with 7 incredible vendors this year! They include: @thebackspace.chiro, @juicepod_lionville, @glitzbeautiful, @boutiqueonthirty, @divinefloatspa, @the.stretch.solution, & @bravebeautybar 🤍 They will be offering different services & shops from 10:30am to 1pm either outside under our tent (weather permitting) or in our lobby! BONUS — our vendors are generously donating prizes to be won by those who attend on the day of the open house 🤩 more details to come Sunday September 11, 2022!

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Gilded Age Films In Town, Donna Summer Sings Sunday, then fireworks at Rivers Casino

This week Philadelphia has once again transformed into Phillywood as another series is filming in our town. The Gilded Age is an American historical drama television series created and written by Julian Fellowes for HBO that is set in the United States during the Gilded Age, the boom years of the 1880s in New York City. The series premiered on January 24, 2022.[2] In February 2022, the series was renewed for a second season.[3] It has received mostly positive reviews, with particular praise for the costumes, cast and performances of lead actors Carrie Coon, Morgan Spector , Cynthia Nixon, Audra McDonald and Christine Baranski. Filming for the 2nd season began in Cohoes, NY in August, 2022.

And has made a stop in Philadelphia as well. I spotted folks in period pieces outside the Academy of Music on Thursday. Readers tell the they’ll be there for the next week filming interior scenes for the popular series. The Academy of Music, on the Kimmel Cultural Campus, has been mentioned several times in the Gilded Age as the famed opera house in Philadelphia.
On set this week is Douglas Sills: Monsieur Baudin, and Celia Keenan-Bolger: Mrs. Bruce

Rainere Martin – The Ultimate Donna Summer Tribute

SUNDAY NIGHT, September 4th, Rivers Casino is Celebrating Labor Day with a Party on the Pier is a free event along the Delaware River capping off the summer on Sept. 4 begins at 6PM.

The event will feature food-truck favorites, like Smoke Break BBQ, Southern Style Seafood, Cousins Maine Lobster and Rita’s Italian Ice. A DJ will provide them music to kick off the night followed by a live performance by The Ultimate Donna Summer Tribute by Rainere Martin at 7:30 p.m.

For guests of all ages, there will be family-friendly games and activities, like cornhole, giant Connect 4 and Jenga, face painting and a balloon artist.

Then at 9 p.m. Fireworks will light up the sky over the Delaware River. Party goers can grab a spot along the riverwalk to view the colorful display. (For more Info) Free Parking!!

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HughE Around Town: Jacqueline London, Patty Jackson welcome Fox29’s Shiba Russell

Sunday 5PM Fairmount Park

Fall may still be a few weeks away, but calendar Summer ends next Monday. What a great summer I had. I had so much fun. During the pandemic I promised myself I wouldn’t work as hard as we returned to the new normal, but this month I can see the social events are coming back strong, and I am nearly booked every day in September, and a lot of October. But I’m excited to see and capture the joy of folks out enjoying themselves as well as supporting so many great causes. I’m excited to chronicle the social scene again, and see who are the emerging leaders, as well as the scenesters, and scene stealers.

New to Philly: Shiba Russell Fox 29’s Newest Anchor stopped by to visit everyone’s favorite Auntie, Patty Jackson, WDAS radio yesterday. The former anchor at 11Alive (WXIA-TV) in Atlanta, where she was for 6 years, began her on air duties on August 14. Over the weekend, NBC10’s Jacqueline London had dinner with Shiba, to welcome her to Philly. Jacqueline told me she reached out to Shiba. She wanted to show her the best views in Philly, so they headed for JG Skyhigh for a bite to eat Saturday night, then went to Assembly Rooftop. As Jack Harlow would say “First Class!!”

Athena
(Photo from MinaSayWhat’s Instagram)

Another stunner to arrive to the Philly area on August 14, was precious baby Athena, who’s mom is well known radio personality Mina “SayWhat” Llona, who you can hear daily on @SIRIUSXMTHEHEAT @RNBPHILLY. I’ve met Mina’s boo, but since she doesn’t say who he is on social I will respect his privacy as well. I couldn’t be happier for the duo. I have had the privilege to know Mina for a few years, and respect her grind. She’s really created a beautiful life and career for herself. Kisses. Where’s my emojis?

As I mentioned, I’ve had a great summer of fun. Dancing, going out, dining and haven’t really walked Walnut Street or other spots to see what’s new. But I feel the cool air coming and will make it back out to the streets and get back to you. I do see we have a Brookelinen 1703 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103. So many great ideas for the nesting and cuffing season. BTW have you heard the new Beyonce Renaissance CD. AMAZING!!! OK I have to run, I have a big project I’m working on today and tomorrow. Love ya HughE

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JEN SU LIGHTS UP HER BIRTHDAY WITH PHILLY STYLE DYNAMIC WOMEN OF STYLE

Jen Su featured in September’s Philly Style as the Dynamic Women headline, in the new issue with actress Natalie Portman on the cover.  34 Women of Style are featured in the issue.  “I’m very honored to be one of the Dynamic Women in this month’s Philly Style,” exclaimed Su.  “It’s been amazing to re-discover my city of birth after being away for the last three decades and I’ve met so many inspiring personalities through Philly Style’s fabulous events. The magazine photo shoot was held at the Guild House, and I’m thankful to the many people who came together for the shoot, including photographer Phil Kramer, my stylist Ayumi Perry and Philly designer Ahmad Essa, who designed my gown of silk, tulle, and crystal embellishments.”

Philly girl Jen Su celebrated her birthday month with a debut in September’s Philadelphia Style Magazine, a red carpet appearance at the MTV VMAs, and a party at The Capital Grille in King of Prussia organized by friends last week.

Jen Su in Ayumi Perry latex gown with Sue Moerder Chain Design and Jagged Halo X Ayumi Perry jewelry

Su, who was on the red carpet at last night’s 2022 MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Center in Newark, has been on the forefront of celebrity news and interviews, in her work as a style and entertainment reporter for the Sunday Times and SABC3 Expresso Morning Show in South Africa. At last night’s ceremony, hosted by LL Cool J, Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow, Su wore a black patent latex dress by Ayumi Perry adorned with silver chain couture and oversized tassels by Philly designer Sue Moerder Skull Art. “What’s amazing is that these chains are crafted from recycled basketball hoops, dog leashes, and other materials. I loved the edginess of the outfit and it was perfect for the VMA red carpet.”

Last week at a party at The Capital Grille in King of Prussia Su celebrated her birthday, her feature in Philadelphia Style Magazine, and the return of “red carpet” events in our area as well as nationally.

Guests dressed in red for good luck, enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, and sang happy birthday as a fabulous cake was brought out adorned with 5 candles.

Fabulous females celebrated Jen Su at The Capital Grille included newly-crowned Mrs. Classic Universe Jennifer Lynn Robinson; Philly Style reporter and philanthropist Allison Weiss Brady; CEO of Embellish Beauty Marcia Williams; TV host Nicolette Brycki; Philly Socialite Melissa Leonard and daughter Madison Leonard; CEO of The Judge Group Marty Judge; real estate personality Donna Coghlan; celebrity stylist Ayumi Perry; TV producer Antoine Johnson; and television host Paul Rimar, of The Ri Show debuting on September 11th on the CW in Philadelphia. 

Melissa Leonard and her daughter Madison Leonard
Nicolette Brycki, Jen Su and Allison Brady

Born in the Philadelphia suburbs of Jenkintown as Jennifer Tsou, Su graduated from Abington Senior High School, the University of Pennsylvania, and was a Rotary Scholar and Paul Harris Fellow. After graduation, she embarked on a 30-year career abroad, as a professional singer in Taiwan, a television news anchor in Bangkok, Hong Kong, South Africa, and fashion news personality in Shanghai, China.

Philly actor and model Jalen Hoang with his mother Lynn, along with chairman and Founder of the Judge Group, Martin E. Judge, Jr.

In addition to her entertainment work with South Africa, Su has been a fashion and style commentator for Fox 29’s Good Day Philadelphia.  She has also been on the Board of Directors for the Philadelphia Film Society, helping to promote education and outreach to diverse communities through film and the arts – with the upcoming Philadelphia Film Festival from October 20-30. 

Reporter and media correspondent Afea Tucker captures the scene as Katie Kupstas looks on.
Jen Su’s son, Michael Levin (pictured center, holding sign) with fellow Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Parkway Run and Walk ambassadors as well as then-coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, Doug Pederson, and his wife Jeannie, in August 2019.  After two years held virtually due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the CHOP Parkway Run and Walk will be held in-person for the first time again on September 25, 2022 in Philadelphia. Michael was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in 2017 and had been in a wheelchair after suffering Avascular Necrosis. 

On Halloween of 2017, Su’s then 13 year-old son Michael fell ill suddenly with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia T-Cell.  “Michael became pale, started vomiting, and a terrible dark rash, known as petechiae, developed on his legs.”  After the shocking cancer diagnosis, she airlifted her son to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

“He was incredibly ill and he was rushed to the pediatric ICU when we got to CHOP,” she explained.  “With the clock ticking down, I left with the clothes on my back and we departed with a medical team from International SOS overnight.  I’m truly grateful to Dr. Stephen Hunger (Head of Oncology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia) for saving my son’s life.”

Her son, who also spent eight months in a wheelchair due to Avascular Necrosis, has finally begun walking again and is in remission after years of chemotherapy and treatment.  “September 25th is the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Parkway Run and Walk, and Michael has been an Ambassador for the hospital.  I applaud all the kids who have organized teams to raise funds for CHOP.” 

Congratulations Jen Su on all your accomplishments, philanthropy and future endeavors. Philadelphia is lucky to have you back!! Plus I love see all you do in the celebrity world and all the world red carpet.