There is no surer sign of spring in Philly than the annual garden parties that pop up around town; The latest took place last night at AKA University City.
Nearly 100 seasonally inspired fashionable, scene staples, tastemakers enjoyed the view, cocktails and lite bites on level 28, 400 feet above the city sidewalk.
DJ Joshua Lang kept the vibes going at the Soirée. SAVE THE DATE: Catch Cosmic Rhythms w/ BWC Sounds Monday, May 27, 2024 2:00 PM 8:00 PM Bok Bar 800 Mifflin Street Philadelphia
Danielle Ellis, 6ABC and Yukare Nakayama, NBC10
Christina Gentile-Paytas, Caroline Maher,Kristine Greck and Olivia Mazza
Jen Cauldle and Ernest Owens
Two media powerhouses: Dr. Jennifer Caudle who has gone on to give life and health advice to the masses on her media platforms and Ernest Owens, on his, as well has celebrating a year writing for Eater Philly.
Jen Grayson, Trade Show Hostess and Promotional Specialist and Sam Schwartz, foodie, recently did the Rob 10ks Friend interview.
OG scenester David Alexander Jenkins was spotted at the garden party
Iyanna Yasmeen and Erica Nikole
Ramillionaire fresh from the Met Gala party circuit Monday night, with Foxy Grandpa, co-founder and director of Ugly Art Films.
Fidan Alizada,Lifestyle | Branding | Entrepreneurship, My Mans Krispy, realtor and Josh Maugans, Men’s Fashion Influencer & Content Creator
Spotted at the Soiree: Content Kings: Bran FlakezzEmre Kara, as well as TVsters Janelle Burrell, CBSPhilly, Alex Holley and her favorite side kick Miguel Martinez-Valle, looking fresh after his successful IBX10 run on Sunday. Wooder Ices’ Hec Núñez, Farah Vogel and Jay Vereen, who just threw a fabulous 10th anniversary party at Tendenza 2 weeks ago and multiple Cashman Girls, of Cashman & Associates, who curated the list for the party for their client AKA University City. Congratulations to Sofia Suwala who is about to be a mom for the first time in a few weeks.
Philly Mags’ Laura Swartz otherwise known as Pompomflipflop on IG and Ernest Owens, who has nothing to hide, especially with the bag he’s holding. Congrats are in order as he was recently elected to the Executive Board of the Mighty Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as their Associate Editor of the Sphinx! 🔥
Happy Tuesday, spring is in the air, even if it doesn’t feel like it. I see the big tent is in place for the 62nd Edition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art – The Philadelphia Show this week.
Also this is the last weekend for Darnel’s Cafe’s pop up at Bok Bar.Joe Lope and Kyle Cuffie-Scott co-owners of Darnel’s Cafe at Bok Bar Friday night when I stopped by to pick up a delicious BLT sandwich.
Peyton Manning was spotted shopping on Walnut Street Saturday, while in town for his daughter Madison‘s volleyball tournament at the convention center. It was there he ran into Marvin Harrison Sr. a former professional football player who was a wide receiver for 13 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League, playing much of it with quarterback Peyton, was born and lives in Philly. Peyton posted this photo on his IG Sunday.
Have you seen it? Jason Kelce’s new Tesla Truck. Since his retirement he’s been spotted all over town, like our own “Where’s Waldo?” (The Indie Shelf Philly) Monday he was spotted in South Philly getting his haircut.
Jason Kelce pointing out one of his favorite bumper stickers to his hairdresser Libby Hitt, who also shears a few other Eagles heads.
Jim Dever, Bank of America and Dr. Lynn Dever were co-chairs of the event, which attended by a record number of guests, and raised over a million dollars.
Last night, the Franklin Institute celebrated its 200th year, The Franklin Institute Awards pays tribute to our namesake and America’s first citizen scientist, Benjamin Franklin, by honoring the greatest minds in science, engineering, and industry, through their boundless creativity and passion for discovery.
2024 Franklin Institute Awards Laureates David A. Weitz, Ph.D., Harvard University Lisa Su, Ph.D., AMD Gabriela S. Schlau-Cohen, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology Paula T. Hammond, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology Janet F. Werker, Ph.D., O.C., FRSC, The University of British Columbia Paul D. N. Hebert, Ph.D., FRSC, O.C., University of Guelph Robert M. Metcalfe, Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin Joanne Chory, Ph.D., The Salk Institute for Biological Studies Mary C. Boyce, Ph.D., Columbia University
Morgan and Nick Morris of Manhattan
Spring Gala Season is in full bloom, with events happening nearly every night, all for a good cause.
Beverly Deavens and Gregory E. Deavens President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross
Since its inception, The Franklin Institute Awards Program has honored the most influential scientists, engineers, and inventors who have significantly advanced science and technology. The roster of more than 2,000 laureates includes luminaries such as Nikola Tesla, Marie and Pierre Curie, Orville Wright, Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, Jane Goodall, Stephen Hawking, and more recently, vaccine pioneers Kizzmekia Corbett, Drew Weissman, and Katalin Karikó. Notably, 125 of these laureates have also received the Nobel Prize.
Jackie and Eric Kraeutler
Hugh Stravick, Senior Vice President, Client & Community Relations · PNC and Kristin Stravick
Hugh and I have a special bond, cause I think we’re the only two in Philly with the same name, who see each other regularly; and on occasion we see Hugh Lavery. SVP of Govt Affairs, Jefferson Health.
Dara Oliver and Doug Oliver, PECO
Dr. Nina Radcliff, Board Certified Anesthesiologist Orange is the new black it’s better than that actually in sequins ! and Anthony Murray, my fellow bird watching friend.
Andrea Freundlich, Jerry Wind and Barbara Eberlein
Kimberly Doolittle, Esq and Lindsay Craig exploring the more than life size heart inside the museum.
Dr. Joan O’Shea, Neurosurgeon and Amany Mansour Awad, Founder, Board Member at Chemistry Rx |Founder and CEO at Bloop
Larry Dubinski is the President & CEO of The Franklin Institute greets guests as they arrive at the Franklin Institute
“The 200-year legacy of The Franklin Institute Awards stands as a shining example of our dedication to honoring those who have made significant strides in advancing scientific knowledge,” said Larry Dubinski, President and CEO of The Franklin Institute. “In this milestone year, the Awards Program will celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our 2024 laureates and serve as a reminder of The Franklin Institute’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to shaping the future of science and technology.
Bonnie Grant, PCMA Greater Philadelphia Chapter, Laura Swartz, Chief Executive Officer and President · World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and Donna Farrell, senior vice president of Corporate Communications for Independence Blue Cross
Dr. Thanuja Hamilton and Nicholas Perugino (r) enjoying the pre awards reception.
Vishal Patel and Kernika Gupta – Director – Independence Blue Cross
Additional photos from the event can be seen on CBSPhilly, as well as Main Line Today in the June issue, and Philly Style Magazine in the July Issue.
UArts President Kerry Walk, PhD, introduces James Brandon Lewis at the Inaugural Music on the Square
UArts kicked off their new music series UArts Music on The Square earlier this month at the Philadelphia Art Alliance at the University of the Arts on Rittenhouse Square with a concert by James Brandon Lewis & Neil Podgurski Molecular Systematic Music Duets
After the concert there was a reception with cocktails and charcuterie David Kelly, Vicky Hall. Tom Cardosi and Andrew Kleeman, Parents & Family Council UArts
Andrew Pack, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Harriet and Larry Weiss, UArts supporters
Music on the Square has two more evening performances scheduled for you to enjoy.
Miranda Powell, Director of Campus Events and Scheduling UArts and Jean Murphy, Manager for Annual Fund & Leadership Giving, Office of Advancement
Join University of the Arts at the historic Philadelphia Art Alliance for a spring concert series featuring The No Name Pops. Each evening performance showcases a unique program presented by this new, versatile ensemble.
Carol Graney, VP for Academic Affairs, UArts and Daniel Tucker, Program Director, Museum Studies UArts
Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts 251 S. 18th Street
Join us for an evening of musical brilliance as the No Name Pops Jazz Quintet, which includes professors and a professor emeritus from the University of the Arts, pay homage to the timeless tunes of George Gershwin and Cole Porter. From the soul stirring melodies of “Our Love Is Here To Stay” to the toe-tapping rhythms of “Anything Goes,” immerse yourself in a journey through the golden era of American music, alongside your No Name Pops! Tickets $50, $35
David and Vicky Kelly with Andrew Kleeman
Fashionistas Tom and Jamie Cardosi
Audrey Ellis and Jonathan Fineberg, Founding Director, PhD in Creativity UArts
Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts 251 S. 18th Street
Experience a tribute to Anthony Newley, curated by featured vocalist Eddie Bruce, with The No Name Pops Jazz Quintet, which includes professors from University of the Arts. With fervor and authenticity, Bruce channels Newley’s wit and ingenuity and leaves audiences captivated. Featuring iconic renditions of “Pure Imagination” and “Feeling Good,” this concert honors the enduring legacy of one of show business’ most remarkable and underrated songwriters. See you at Music on the Square
Opera Philadelphia President David B. Devan was honored during a special event at the 23rd Street Armory March 9, 2024, the longtime leader of Opera Philadelphia will step down in June 2024, at the end of the season.
David B. Devan and husband Rev David A. Dubbeldam
Eddie and Rachel Eitches
David Levy and Frank Luzi, Founder & President at Luzi Media, who’s client is Opera Philadelphia, where he was the VP of Marketing for nearly 12 years
Susan Long, Andy Szabo, Ivy and Gary Kaplan (the 2 NY Giants fans walked in the 2023 5k Eagles Autism Challenge. last year to celebrate their beautiful grandchildren, Ari, and Davina. This years walk is coming up May 18.)
Leslie Miller and Richard Worley, philanthropists who recently made an incredible generous gift to the Kimmel Center at Ensemble Arts Philly, which will be going toward renaming the home of the Philadelphia Orchestra, currently, Verizon Hall. The officially re-dedication of Verizon Hall to Marian Anderson Hall will take place on June 8, in the afternoon. That evening is the 2nd annual Great Stages Gala and concert, and the first performance in the newly renamed hall.
Jamie Ray-Leonetti
Anita and James Dupree
Susan Long, Andy Szabo, Ivy and Gary Kaplan
Thanks to team photographer Andre Flewellen for photographing this event for PhillyChitChat
Stephen Klasko and Sarah Marshall
Board chair Steven Klasko told WHYY ‘s Peter Crimmins, “He [Devan] literally created a company in step with Philadelphia, created a very urban, new wave opera company”, “We have become one of the leaders in adding new American operas to the repertoire.”
The very talented John Jarboe of The Bearded Ladies, emceed and entertained for his long time friend, and his friends.
The company created 18 new operas during Devan’s tenure, which have subsequently been produced over 330 times by other companies in 10 countries. Opera Philadelphia also created a series of highly produced operatic films as part of its pandemic-inspired digital service. The soundtrack for one of them, “Soldier Songs,” was nominated for a Grammy Award.
John Jarboe with an epic piano hat
Joshua Blue
Devan was serenaded by vocalists who’ve performed with Opera Philadelphia including Will Liverman (’10 Days in a Madhouse’), John Holiday (‘We Shall Not Be Moved’), Daniela Mack (‘Carmen’), Ashley Marie Robillard and Joshua Blue (‘La bohème’)
Ashley Robillard
Stephen Klasko, Former president of Thomas Jefferson University flew into town from his Florida home, with long time friend Sarah Marshall, philanthropist and Board Member · USAFA Foundation, HelpUsAdopt.org, Pennsylvania Ballet, Opera Philadelphia
Jan Shaeffer and Jane Pepper, Chairman at Longwood Gardens Inc., formerly the president of Philadelphia Horticultural Society
Devan’s last full production with Opera Philadelphia, will be Puccini’s ‘Madame Butterfly’ for his grand finale (April 26 to May 5).
This is not an April Fools Day Joke. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce flew into Philly airport ie Atlantic Aviation, on Easter morning at about 9AM. They presumably headed to Jason and Kylie’s house in Haverford to spend the day with family. The “End Game” couple then headed to the Four Seasons Hotel to spend the night (When touring Taylor always stays at the Ritz, but Travis, who was last in town for his brothers retirement announcement, stayed at the Four Season’s. When she toured last summer she did have JG George stay open late for dinner after the Saturday night concert), They flew out this morning around 10am.
The final destination today is Hollywood for the IHeart Radio Awards show tonight; their plane touches down around 12:30pm pacific time. Taylor is leading in the nominations. Tonight might be their official Red Carpet debut together. They did appear on the gold carpet at the Gucci after party on Oscar Night, but that was for a private event.
Today Show: This morning did you catch Kylie Kelce on The Today Show chatting about Eagles Autism Foundation this morning . Such a good interview, lots of Jason chat as well, she is such a supporter of his -All cards are on the table, he can do whatever he sets his mind to. He is so talented she told Hoda & Savanah. Kylie did not mention Taylor or Travis’ Easter dinner appearance. All that was mentioned of loved up couple was it was fun to see them together.
Then everyone headed out to the plaza where more about the work Kylie and the Eagles do on behalf of the Eagles Autism Foundation.
April Is Autism Awareness Month and the Philadelphia Eagles are inviting fans, arts and culture enthusiasts, autism supporters, and the community to experience a new gallery adorned exclusively with Eagles-themed masterpieces. The Eagles’ art gala, “Green Is the Heart Inspired,” will run from Thursday, April 11, to Sunday, April 14, at the award-winning Arch Enemy Arts gallery in Philly’s historic Old City District.
Speaking of former Eagles Players.
The Ertz Family Foundation (Julie and Zach Ertz) will host a benefit concert for House of Hope featuring Matt Quinn of indie rock band Mt. Joy, and surprise guests, at Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia on Friday, April 12.
Tickets went on sale today exclusively at brooklynbowl.com/philadelphia. A preshow package including a meet and greet, cocktails, light bites, bowling and photo opportunities, are also available.
House of Hope, a project supported by The Ertz Family Foundation, provides education, technology, and nutrition products and services to combat the ongoing food insecurity, gun violence, and drug use Philadelphia is experiencing.
After a pause that left many yearning for its delightful aromas and communal vibrancy, the much-loved Red Gravy Cook-Offis making a triumphant return, stirring excitement among food enthusiasts and community members alike. Organized by the East Passyunk Crossing Civic Association, this cherished event promises to rekindle the spirit of community and culinary excellence that has been its hallmark.
I hope you had a wonderful Easter, for those who celebrate, as well as a time to reconnect with friends and family. This year was the first time in 14 years I didn’t attend the Easter Parade on South Street. I love it, and I will return, but I was excited to try something different this year and that was enjoying a lovely brunch with friends hosted by TV personality Brian Balthazar (r) and Dennis St. Germain (standing), real estate agent to the stars, but he’d never tell you that. (They moved to our area during the pandemic, here’s their home feature on The Today Show.) Rounding out this photo are my friends Rich and Jimmy Eib, owner of 1600 Spruce Interior Design & Home
The Cherry Trees seem to bloom earlier and earlier each year. I hope you had a chance to see them this weekend. They were so beautiful and bountiful. I’m heading into the busy Spring Social Season, but I am going to work hard at not getting overwhelmed and will post here at least 3 times a week.
On Wednesday, February 14 , The Barnes hosted a fabulous, romantic Valentine’s Dinner Party among world class art and architecture. Guests enjoyed a deliciously curated menu, as we mingled with our Valentines, galentines and palentines.
Rachel and Michael Blanchfeld
The evening kicked off with a special cocktail hour where guests mixed and mingled while enjoying drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
Lou Fatuato and Julia Dolinger
Autumn and Anthony Smiley, with Walt and Naomi Livingston
Yuliza Brel-Fousmier and Andrew Faurnier
Fidan A Lizata and Emre Kara
For dinner there was an aphrodisiac-rich, Mediterranean-inspired menu crafted by Constellation Culinary Group.
Meg Matmens and Sue Prieto
o Amuse of Winter Fluke Crudo o First Course of Warmed Hummus Mezze with roasted fennel & sumac, mint & garlic pesto o Choice of Entrée including Pan Seared Branzino, Harissa Braised Beef Short Rib or Charred Vidalia Onion o Sweet Treats including Gilded Chocolate Lava Cake Bites, Blueberry Cheesecake Torte, Spiced Carrot Cake and French Macarons o Plus, take-home Champagne truffles
Tarik and Brin Brooks
Jim Miller and Sean Hartigan
Why is this column showing up so late. Well as you know I have exclusives with three magazines. Philly Mag, Philly Style and Main Line Today. When I shoot something like this in February, I submit it to the mags. For each outlet I submit multiple options, and I only know which party they picked up when the magazine is published. This fabulous one wasn’t, so I am publishing it here on Chit Chat. I hope the Barnes has more of these events, it was quite lovely.
The wait is over, and it was worth it. Jefferson Health has cut the ribbon on its new outpatient facility in Center City, a 19-story tower which will integrate multiple specialties under one roof when it opens to the public on April 15.
The Honickman Center, at 11th and Chestnut streets encompasses about 462,000 square feet , has more than 300 exam rooms, 58 infusion chairs, 10 operation rooms, six endoscopy rooms, imaging and laboratory services and a pharmacy. It also has an underground parking garage.
“We’ve created an experience that will change the way we view and define healthcare in the future,” says Dwight W. McBee, Executive Vice President and Chief Experience and Clinical Health Equity Officer for Jefferson Health. “We’ve learned that finding parking for your vehicle, making your way through the building to your appointment, and how many times you answer the same questions are as important as the surgery you have and the follow-up care we provide. We’ve studied each moment in the care journey and thoroughly curated experiences that redefine how we think about healthcare.”
“The Honickman Center stands as our flagship medical facility in Center City and as the epicenter of a more than $1 billion urban development project in East Market,” Jefferson Health CEO Joseph Cacchione said.
The Honickman Center, located at the 1100 block of Chestnut Street, across the street from Jefferson Hospital, took four years to build and stands 19 stories tall. It will host over 300 exam rooms, 10 operating rooms, and 58 infusion chairs for treatments.
“The Honickman Center was truly designed by patients for patients,” said Dr. Baligh R. Yehia, president of Jefferson Health. “We spoke with hundreds of patients and community members who shared their perspectives and informed our design from concept through completion. The Honickman Center also represents the future of health care by blending physical and virtual care, while enhancing the human interaction between a patient and their care provider.” (source)
Jefferson officials said their goal was to create a more seamless experience for patients by enabling them to have multiple appointments in a day without needing to travel between buildings in Center City. All of the patient rooms will have digital screens that enable other clinicians and relatives to participate virtually in appointments.
One of the waiting rooms
Jefferson Health received a $50 million gift from Lynne and Harold Honickman, (c) along with their children Marjorie and Jeffrey Honickman 3rd and 4th from left) and Shirley Han 4th from right) and Richard Hahn, in support of its new 19-story medical building. More than 2,000 individual donors chipped in roughly $150 million as well.
Marjorie and Jeffrey Honickman helped pick out the art work with a committee for the new space. They wanted to make sure people going through treatment were surrounded by beauty.
58 infusion chairs for extended procedures, some have views of the City skyline.
One of the state of the art operating rooms, there are 10
Patients at the Honickman Center will have access to a number of Jefferson’s named care facilities, including the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Nicoletti Kidney Transplant Center and Vickie & Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience. See additional photos at CBSPhiladelphia
Oscar Night in Philly: It’s was a night of food, fun and movies, with guests dressing up, some as their favorite characters from nominated films, walking the red carpet all in the name of raising funds to benefit the Philadelphia Film Society.
Hostess with the mostess Scarlet and TV Personality Jen Su, PFS Board of Directors Hope you caught her on Fox29 today, recapping the Oscars, and last nights party at Philadelphia Film Center on Chestnut, near Broad.
Ann Marie and Sadie Mendlow, Cashman & Assocs.
Fashion designer Andre Moore with muse, personality Laura Mazurek
Barry Johnson and Ernest Owens
Ernest’s favorites this year were best picture Holdover and everyone’s favorite supporting actress Philly’s own Da’Vine Joy Randolph, actress Lily Gladstone, actor Robert Downey Jr., songstress Billie Eilish, although he’d love to see songwriter Diane Warren win in her lifetime. She’s been nominated 15 times, and has never won. He knows his stuff as nearly everyone he chose won.
Delicious fare by 12th Street Catering
Andrew Greenblatt Executive Director of the Philadelphia Film Society, Producer of the Philadelphia Film Festival
James Claiborne has returned to Philly, after being appointed Barnes Foundation Deputy Director for Community Engagement and with equally stylish Sena Sullivan
Usually he’s in front of the camera, but fashion model Jalen Hoang who always makes the scene next level does a favor for a friend.
Jan’ah McClean and Diane Duncan loved Oppenheimer. The last film they saw was Dune 2, which they recommend. It’s sooo long you can grab a quick nap and still know what’s going on, but make sure you watch the first Dune so you can follow along.
All proceeds from this annual fundraiser support the Philadelphia Film Society’s mission of creating opportunities for diverse communities to experience film through initiatives that inspire, educate, challenge and entertain.
Mark Ruffalo Spotted, Sto Bar Moves, Mamajuana Cafe about to Open, Old City Beer Garden will open and more PhillyChitChat…
I’m sorry I have been absent. A lot has been happening over the past years. The pandemic was a big break, and my blog took a backseat, my social media took the wheel. But I’m back, again. I hope to post 3 times a week. Today I am doing a gossipy tidbit entry.
Ezekiel Zagar, Jeremiah Zagar and Isaiah Zagar at the CraftNow fundraiser in October. In the fall I told you Jeremiah told me he was to direct a pilot episode and multiple other episodes of a new HBO series called “Task”, a crime drama from Mare of Easttown creator Brad Ingelsby as soon as the writers/actor strike was over. He’ll also serve as executive producer.
Set in the working-class suburbs of Philadelphia, the upcoming drama will follow an FBI agent who’s in charge of a Task Force that’s been assembled to “end a series of drug-house robberies led by an unsuspecting family man”. (source)
The show is just starting production, in fact they’re looking for a personal chef to cook healthy meals. Have a recommendation email hughe @ phillychitchat.com .
BTW the show also stars actor Mark Ruffalo , who was spotted over the weekend shopping along Pine Street.
The Burgerfi location in Center City across from the Reading Terminal has closed. The one inside Fashion District ie the Gallery, remains open.
Sto’s Bar in Old City has closed. I posted about it on Reddit and IG and folks are passionate about the iconic dive bar. Love it or hate it, it was memorable. The beer garden next door, on the 200 block of Market Street is still set to open in two weeks. Not sure where they will be getting their food service from as Sto provided the menu.
There’s a sign on the window at Sto’s that says “We will miss you Old City, except for that person who kept calling L&I on us.” We will have a new incarnation coming in a few weeks at 21st and Ludlow called Good Good Things. Moving on Up: This spot was formerly called Rogues Gallery, run by Lauren A. Beloff but closed during the pandemic. They had decent food and clean bathrooms.
Opening within weeks: MAMAJUANA CAFE PHILLY Located in the heart of FISHTOWN! Latin Fusion Cuisine , Cocktails, & Entertainment ! Opening soon !!! 1000 Frankford Ave, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19125. They have a few in NYC and my friend Russ tells me they have a fun fun brunch on the weekends. I stopped by over the weekend and caught up with the co-owner who tells me they’ll be open late as well. They’re located at the same spot where Mad Max, and later Fin were located, next Brooklyn Bowl. I think this is the perfect spot for a lively, fun, delicious Latin spot. They completely gutted the place, and brought a little Latino love to the new iteration.
Thanks for stopping by. I’ll see you more frequent. xoxo HughE
