Category: Around Town With HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Celebrating 220 Years of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

Kristen Shepherd is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) and Donald R. Caldwell, Chair of PAFA Board, help cut the ribbon to the newly renovated PAFA Museum

Founded on December 26, 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is the oldest art museum and school in the United States. As of 2026, PAFA is 220 years old and is celebrating its 220th anniversary this year, as the country celebrates it’s 250th anniversary. It was established in Philadelphia by painter and scientist Charles Willson Peale and sculptor William Rush.

Sarah and Brad Marshall

It was one of those rare Philadelphia evenings where the city truly dressed the part. Long gowns swept the floors, tuxedos filled the rooms, and for a few hours, PAFA transported us back in time.

John and Leigh Middleton

Philadelphia’s art world had every reason to celebrate this season, as the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts marked its 220th anniversary alongside the debut of A Nation of Artists, a landmark exhibition presented in partnership with the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Middleton Family Collection.

The night began in the Hamilton Building with registration and a cocktail hour that buzzed with anticipation. But the true highlight came shortly after, when guests made their way next door for the ribbon cutting and rededication of the Historic Landmark Building. Now fully restored and serving as a central home for A Nation of Artists, the space felt both historic and newly alive, linking PAFA’s storied past with its present moment.

Ron and Ellen Caplan, Board Chair of the Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA), Melissa Leonard and Tac Justi, Board member of PMA
Marsden Hartley (modernist, Southwest influence) and one of Mrs Middleton’s favorite pieces she mentioned to me, Georgia O’Keefe and Walter Ufer (Taos, true Southwest painter)

A Nation of Artists brings together an extraordinary range of American works, creating a sweeping visual narrative that spans centuries. Highlights include iconic portraiture such as Charles Willson Peale’s self-portrait and his portrait of George Washington, alongside Thomas Eakins’s powerful The Gross Clinic. Visitors move through lush landscapes by Albert Bierstadt, Frederic Edwin Church, Winslow Homer, and Georgia O’Keeffe, as well as deeply meaningful works from the Civil War era, including a monumental inscribed vessel by the enslaved potter David Drake.

Kyle Simpson and Michelle Azzarello
Kunal Kolia and Hilary Cianciole

Exquisite decor during the reception

Stephanie Stahl and John Trichon
Veronica McKee and Jonathan Hochman

I’m always excited when I spot a Calder in an exhibition

Steve Williamson and Kevin Hackenberg|

John S. Middleton noted, the exhibition is designed to be accessible to all, inviting visitors to discover something new with every visit, while PAFA President and CEO Kristen Shepherd described the moment as transformative for both the institution and the city, bridging its historic legacy with a forward-looking exploration of American art.

The exhibit at PAFA is incredible, truly one of the most exciting shows I’ve seen in a long time. I was especially grateful to thank the Middletons for sharing their collection with Philadelphia during such a meaningful moment in the city’s history. The renovations are stunning, the building feels bright, fresh, and full of energy. This is not a one-and-done visit, it’s the kind of exhibit you come back to again and again, and I already can’t wait to return and spend more time with it.

Additional photos from this event will appear in the June issue of Philadelphia Style Magazine.

Have a great weekend. In the meantime, catch me on Instagram for daily updates on what’s happening around Philadelphia.

I’ve also launched a new account focused on upcoming events. I’m often told, “I wish I knew about that,” so this will be a place to find what’s coming up before it happens, things worth checking out across the city.

Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Fred’s Footsteps “Party in the Yard”

fred and teresa dibona, Christine DiBona Lobley and Brian Lobley

Held at Urban Outfitters, Inc. headquarters in the Navy Yard, Fred’s Footsteps hosted its annual Party in the Yard fundraiser on March 7, 2026, delivering a night filled with Philadelphia pride, community spirit, and impactful giving raising $348,000 for Local Families.

Lou and Lisa Oswald, Michelle and Rob Perlish

From the moment guests arrived, the energy was unmistakably Philly. The evening’s theme celebrated the city in full force, from locally inspired appetizers and décor to eye-catching, real-life “golden” statues of Rocky Balboa and Benjamin Franklin welcoming attendees.

Adding to the excitement, Swoop made a spirited appearance, while a green screen photo booth transported guests to iconic scenes along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

Joe and Yvonne Kolok

One of the most talked-about features of the night was the glowing balloon-and-letter marquee display by Charming Garlands, which quickly became a must-stop photo moment. Meanwhile, 13th Street Cocktail Catering elevated the experience with a custom Philly-themed bar, complete with a steaming manhole cover branded with the Fred’s Footsteps logo—a clever nod to the city’s streetscape.

Jeff DuBose and Joanne Dixon
Meg Kane and Keith Audit
Olivia and Christian Hoban

Since its founding in 2005, Fred’s Footsteps has been dedicated to ensuring that a child’s health is a parent’s only worry. The organization provides critical financial relief to working families caring for medically complex children, serving Philadelphia and 18 surrounding counties across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.

Angelo Christopher, Kristin Jones and Mea Coffin

The program featured a high-energy live auction led by Jeff Hammond, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences including a private chef’s table at Osteria, a VIP Philadelphia Eagles training camp experience, and a luxury Philadelphia Phillies suite outing.

Jaron and Tara Parr, Rebecca and Jon Stump

Guests also showed overwhelming generosity during the paddle raise, funding essential needs such as wheelchair-accessible vans, home modifications, and basic household expenses for families facing medical hardship.

Pat and Jen Haddon

From silent auction bids and raffle ticket purchases to enthusiastic paddle raises, every moment of participation contributed to a powerful outcome. By the end of the evening, Fred’s Footsteps raised an impressive $348,000, directly supporting families navigating some of life’s toughest challenges.

Brett Mansfield, Jackie Bradley, Becky and Tom Quirk

Fred’s loves Phillyand once again, Philadelphia showed up.

Thanks for stopping by!! Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Around Town With HughE Philadelphia 2026

Philly 2026 Ring It On

Philadelphia is rolling out a new initiative to energize neighborhood business corridors as the nation’s 250th anniversary approaches. The focus is on activating these areas through events, beautification efforts, and community programming.

The campaign, Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration, will spotlight 20 corridors across the city, with the goal of attracting more visitors, supporting small businesses, and creating more vibrant, welcoming commercial districts. “Ring It On! celebrates and uplifts the neighborhoods that define Philadelphia,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker. “Our neighborhoods are the heart of this city.”

The effort, first announced in September, when they first taught us about the City’s ABC’s – activations, beatifications, and celebrations. The plan includes expanding neighborhood festivals, introducing new programming, and enhancing corridors with improvements like tree plantings, upgraded lighting, benches, banners, and bike racks.

Plans are in place, and the City is ready to officially kicked off the Philly 2026 initiatives.

Earlier this month in Point Breeze they held a press conference which coincided with the Point Breeze Market Festival, which brought the corridor to life with live entertainment, local food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly activities.

City officials say the program will extend to two corridors in each of Philadelphia’s 10 City Council districts, reaching neighborhoods from Chinatown and South 9th Street to Germantown, Kensington, and Northeast Philadelphia to celebrate America’s 250th .

According to City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, launching the initiative in Point Breeze underscores the importance of investing in neighborhood commercial districts.

“Investing in our commercial corridors and public spaces is critical to strengthening neighborhoods across Philadelphia,” Johnson said. “I’m energized to see how this effort will have a lasting impact well beyond 2026.”

Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and president and CEO of Philadelphia250,

We are going to make sure that this celebration pours out into the neighborhoods. All of the neighborhoods. We are going to make sure to involve and engage all of these communities

Aramark’s Building Community helped clean up the Point Breeze park finishing off with this cool mural for Philly’s 250th and beyond.

The initiative also includes a yearlong calendar of events ranging from food truck festivals and cultural celebrations to music events, neighborhood fairs and block parties.

Philadelphia’s Block Party Bonanza is open to any block that secures a city block party permit. Once approved, organizers receive a link to apply through Philadelphia250. Selected blocks will be chosen to ensure representation across all 10 City Council districts, with participation determined on a first-come, first-served basis for events held between May 23 and October 3, 2026.

Here’s the link for the Block Party Bonanza application.

For all the information you need to enjoy the 250 celebrations head HERE

So many great initiatives and celebrations bringing people together, building pride, and showcasing the very best of our City. Stay tuned here, on IG’s PhillyChitChat and especially the City’s IG account.

Socially yours, HughE

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Around Town With HughE Philadelphia

First Tee’s Links at the Linc

Last night at Lincoln Financial Field, First Tee Philadelphia brought together sports fans, civic leaders, and supporters for a meaningful evening celebrating two Philadelphia icons, Mike Quick and Merrill Reese at “Links at the Linc”. Both honorees are longtime partners on 94.1 WIP broadcasts and have worked together for nearly 30 years. Mike has been involved with First Tee for awhile, I remember shooting him at another event with them the first time about 12 years ago.

The setting was classic Philly. Cocktail hour energy inside the Linc, with guests mixing, reminiscing, and, in true First Tee fashion, even getting a chance to swing a club in a space better known for touchdowns than tee shots.

Normally not something you could do, but officials were testing out a new turf to be used for the upcoming Fifa games scheduled to start in June, so they had a field that was not for football.

First Tee Philadelphia goes far beyond the game itself. It uses golf as a way to build confidence, discipline, and resilience in young people.

Dave Sheilds, First Tee and Charles Pizzi, Board member of Independence Blue Cross

The program reaches tens of thousands of kids across the region, many gaining access to opportunities they might never have otherwise experienced.

Ashley Scudder, Tyler Scudder and Adriana Holt

Events like this work because they hit both notes. There is nostalgia and celebrity, yes. But there is also a clear reminder of why everyone is there.

Zoe Sky, Skylar Crutchfield and Tai Crutchfield

You could feel it in the room. Conversations were not just about the past, but about investing in the next generation.

And in a city that loves its sports heroes, honoring figures like Quick and Reese while lifting up young people felt exactly right.

Another fantastic event with a wonderful organization that makes a difference!!

Have a great weekend. Socially yours, HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Inside Love Is Blind Philadelphia Filming: What I’m Hearing So Far

Love Is Blind is a dating show built around a simple idea: can people fall in love without ever seeing each other? Singles talk and date in separate rooms where they can hear one another but not see each other, forming emotional connections first. If they feel strongly enough, they get engaged before ever meeting face to face. From there, they meet, and enter the real world, meet each other’s friends and families, and prepare for a wedding just weeks later, where they ultimately decide at the altar whether to say “I do” or walk away. The show is filming in Philadelphia, and most of the contestants live in the area, so it’s easy to do the meets and greets with familiar faces.

Love Is Blind contestants are generally paid a flat rate, often reported as roughly $1,000 per week or around $8,000 for the season, with some, like in season 6, earning up to $13,000 depending on milestones (pods, honeymoons, weddings).

With filming underway across some of Philly’s most recognizable spots, the city is officially center stage for a new round of relationships, dates, and inevitable drama. From what I’m hearing, there’s already a lot happening behind the scenes. While I won’t be revealing identities or outcomes, here’s where and when it’s been unfolding across the city.

BTW, I had never seen the show before and just started watching it on Sunday. I’m started with Season 6 . I wanted to watch a full season to understand how it all unfolds so I know what to share and when, after receiving weeks of tips.

Harper’s Garden

Love Is Blind has officially begun filming in Philadelphia as of March 2026, with production crews and contestants already spotted across the city.

Scenes have taken place at Ambrosia, Dear Daphni, Via Locusta, The Reading Terminal, Casa Oui and Harp & Crown, while one “meet the parents” moment for a lucky couple unfolded at Harper’s Garden two Sundays ago.

Other Half Brewing March 26 a newly engaged couple meeting the friends. (I’ve cut off their heads)

Notably, these weren’t full buyouts. Filming happened alongside regular diners, with plenty of Philadelphians witnessing it in real time and some snapping photos. The image above with the goblet was taken at Harper’s Garden, though I’m hearing production assistants did persuade a few onlookers to delete footage from their phones.

The grooms were spotted at LR2 at Liberty One to pick up their tuxes last week. The bachelorettes were spotted at Concourse Wednesday night celebrating their upcoming nuptials.

The “W ” might as well stand for Wedding Weekend for Love Is Blind. If you follow me on Instagram, you know Saturday night I ran into a wedding guest at the Ritz Carlton late night, who I didn’t know, who filled me in on one of the weddings he had just attended, seems they only signed a waiver to say they’d give permission to be filmed; while I’m not revealing much, let’s just say there were definitely moments that will have viewers talking.

Here’s where it gets interesting: a friend of mine was invited to one of the weddings scheduled for this weekend, only to get an email just days before saying it was canceled. And this wasn’t an early exit situation, this couple had made it all the way to the altar. Somewhere along the line, someone got cold feet.

Even more curious, the email instructed guests to reach out to the person who invited them if they had questions. Does that mean the usual tight-lipped NDA rules are loosening a bit, or just passing the buck? Either way, something clearly shifted at the last minute and I have a feeling we’ll be hearing more about it.

Philly’s season is shaping up to be a memorable one. I’m hooked!! Look for the Philly season to debut sometime next year, I hear… if you hear anything…drop me a line HughE@phillychitchat.com – Thanks

I goofed, Love is Blind didn’t film at Joe’s Pizza Saturday 3/28 night after Midnight, it was an indie film called The Stranger.

Meet and Greet legendary singer Deborah Cox and Signed Bottle of Kazaisu at Roger Wilco on 5/6/26 INFO HERE

Legend and local resident Patti LaBelle hosted a fabulous birthday dinner Saturday night for her daughter-in-law Lona at Borromini Ristorante; Joined by Lona’s husband Zuri Edwards and a stylish group of friends, Lona told me everything was delicious, especially the branzino and the chocolate cake. I’ve had that olive oil chocolate cake myself, and it is so good.

Happy Birthday, Lona 💜

And Miss Patti is getting ready to celebrate her own birthday on May 24. She’ll be 82 years young ❤️ Fresh off a series of concerts in Ohio last week, she’s still going strong.
Video used with permission ❤️❤️

Thanks for stopping by. Subscribe below for daily dish.

Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Around Town With HughE

InLiquid’s annual March for Art BASH.

InLiquid’s annual March for Art BASH Brings the Crowds (and Collectors) to North American Street

Philadelphia’s creative corridor along North American Street was buzzing last month as InLiquid annual March for Art BASH, one of the city’s most beloved and accessible art events

Lynn Buono Les Dames Philadelphia / co-president and Rachel Zimmerman, Founder, Visionary, and Executive Director of InLiquid

Held at the Crane Arts Building and spilling out onto the surrounding blocks, the week long festival once again delivered on its promise: with most original artwork priced at $250 or less, making collecting feel less intimidating and a lot more fun.

Tuesday Gordon, Robin Cook and Ellen Shepp, co owner of Joan Shepp at Rittenhouse Square

More than 100 artists, designers, and makers set up shop, offering everything from paintings and photography to ceramics, jewelry, prints, and wearable art. The vibe was equal parts block party and open-air gallery, drawing a steady stream of seasoned collectors, curious first-timers, and neighborhood regulars to the gallery on American Street.

Did I mention jewelry
Angela and Joe Val
Artist John Wind and Bill Osmon

Debut’s his new exhibition, behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art, called: Radical Americana project, “Charm Offensive @ Reilly Memorial”, it will be up for two days only! April 18 & 19, a temporary public art intervention at the Reilly Memorial in Fairmount Park, reworking the six bronze Revolutionary War figures through large-scale jewelry, drawing on the language of military decoration — medals, ribbons, insignia — and shifting how the monument reads.

Cultural worker, entrepreneur, and educator Tayyib Smith (l)

What makes this event stand out and keeps people coming back every year is its mission-driven edge. Every dollar from art sales goes directly to the artists, reinforcing InLiquid’s long-standing role as a connector between creators and the public

The event continues to anchor the growing North American Street arts corridor, linking studios, galleries, and creative businesses into one walkable cultural experience. Over the years, it has evolved into a signature spring time tradition that not only supports artists but helps cultivate the next generation of collectors.

Tom Dilsheimer and Susan Wells
Sarah Montagnoli and Justin Kohn
Sonia Adamson
InLiquid artist Janell Wysock and Amanda Lewis

Next up at InLiquid: Brownin’, a powerful new group exhibition opening April 9 at the InLiquid Gallery.

Curated in collaboration with Zindzi Harley, the show brings together five Philadelphia-based artists whose work centers on the Black figure, offering a layered and intentional exploration of identity, representation, and beauty.

Running April 9 through May 23, the exhibition kicks off with an opening reception on April 9 from 6 to 9 pm, followed by a second reception on May 14.

Daniel McLaughlin, Mission Taqueria and Tiger Jaser, Board President of Philadelphia Sketch Club Visual

At its core, Brownin’ challenges narrow definitions of beauty and replaces them with something more expansive and authentic. As Harley puts it, “This exhibition explores and exalts the musings of melanated communities and explodes the myth of a singular Black beauty.”

The featured artists
• Caff Adeus
• Marcus Branch
• Mikel Elam
• Akria Gordon
• Yannick Lowery

Expect a mix of portraiture and figurative work that feels both personal and culturally resonant, continuing InLiquid’s mission of elevating Philadelphia artists while making contemporary art accessible to a wider audience.

Have a great day!! Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Spring Schedule: Parkway & Kelly Drive Road Closures

Many of my readers are writing asking if the tents set up on the Parkway this week are for the No Kings March on Saturday, they are not. They are for the Love Run Half Marathon on Sunday March 29th. They will also be utilizing MLK Drive til Noon. See for more road closures and map.

Here’s an additional list of events on the Parkway which will impact traffic this spring.

Parkway April 4th Hot Chocolate Run – Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Fairmount Park April 26th Greek Independence Day Parade –  Benjamin Franklin Parkway May 2nd Walk MS – Benjamin Franklin Parkway

What’s Happening on the Drives this Spring

Events happening on Kelly Drive this Spring

March 22nd Flick Regatta Series – Kelly Drive and Schuylkill River March 29th Flick Regatta Series – Kelly Drive and Schuylkill River April 12th Flick Regatta Series – Kelly Drive and Schuylkill River April 19th Flick Regatta Series – Kelly Drive and Schuylkill River April 26th Fairmount Arts Crawl – Fairmount Ave May 2nd and 3rd City Championship Regatta – Kelly Drive and Schuylkill River May 3rd Broad Street Run – Broad Street May 15th and 16th Stotesbury Regatta – Kelly Drive and Schuylkill River

Thanks to the Parkway Council for providing this list, which I will update for the Philly 250th Events and summer events roll out.

MLK DRIVE CLOSINGS

Beginning on Saturday, March 28, 2026, the City will close Martin Luther King Drive to motor vehicle traffic between the East Falls Bridge and the MLK Bridge/Eakins Oval on weekends to increase recreational access for the public.  

Closures will begin this weekend – March 28-29, 2026 – and will be in place every Saturday at 7 a.m. through Monday at 7 a.m. until November 29 for runners, cyclists, and walkers to enjoy traffic-free access.

This season, there will be multiple holiday weekend extended closures on MLK Drive, including:  

  • Good Friday/Easter (Friday, April 3 to Sunday, April 5)  
  • Memorial Day (Saturday, May 23 to Monday, May 25)
  • Juneteenth (Friday, June 19 to Sunday, June 21)
  • Labor Day (Saturday, September 5 to Monday, September 7)  
  • Indigenous Peoples Day (Saturday, October 10 to Monday, October 12)  
  • Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 26 to Sunday, November 29)  
  • Hours for all days listed above are 7 a.m. through 7 a.m.

Times MLK won’t be closed on the weekends.

For planning purposes, this year’s Roots Picnic will be held on May 30-31, 2026, and the Head of the Schuylkill Regatta will be held on the weekend of October 24 and 25, 2026. Please note that MLK Drive will not be closed to vehicles on these weekends due to operational access needs. The side path on MLK Drive will remain accessible to trail users.  

Head to the City of Philadelphia website for more information on road closures. And of course subscribe to PhillyChitChat to stay informed on what’s happening in town, as well as follow me on Instagram

Have a great day!! Socially Yours, HughE

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Around Town With HughE

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

Ala Standard, Nicole Cashman and Wedding Walk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Another busy social season has kicked off.

Socially Yours, xoxo HughE

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Around Town With HughE Philly To Do

Preview Party: The Forgotten Freedom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Theresa and Derek Clark

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

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

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

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

aaa

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

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

Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Recap: Cashman & Associates Celebrates 25 Years of Elevating Philadelphia

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

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

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

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

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

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

Philadelphia inquirer Icons: Mike Klein and Elizabeth Wellington

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

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

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

Lynne Hart, Melanie Johnson and Elka Murrillo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks xoxo HughE

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