Welcome to all the new subscribers (198) who heard my plea on IG to come on over. Appreciate it. On my blog/newsletter I cover events, and chitchat about goings on in town, in long form, usually with more information.
I am so full today. I finally made it to @borromini_ristorante land it lived up to the buzz — lobster spaghetti might be the best dish in Philly, the Oso Buco de Tallo is next-level, and, the squash blossoms hit (I hope they’re in season all). So juicy. My photography on the other hand is questionable. The lighting in there is not runway compatible, as you can see by the Biden’s postings, but that’s a good thing in case someone is trying to get a sneaky sneaky photo of the many notables who will be dining there.
Speaking of dinner, and bad photos, thanks to Nicole Cashman and Nigel Richards for their End of Summer Soiree at Steak 48. I mistakenly called it the Cashman 25th Anniversary Party, and it wasn’t. That is next year. I was never good with English/reading, just ask my readers….
Just 9 days to go until America’s first Jordan Brand World of Flight store officially opens at 1617 Walnut Street!
Tuesday, Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts stopped by the soon-to-open flagship for a round of promo photos, but true to form, he also carved out time to meet with kids from kbfmentorship. Over the years, Hurts and the @jalenhurtsfoundation have been strong supporters of the program, consistently partnering with local leaders Kirk Berry, Founder/President and Justin Fishman, the Vice President of Operations and Programming for the KB Foundation. to inspire and uplift the next generation.
Philadelphia will get its first look inside when the doors open on 10/10/25—mark your calendars. This one promises to be more than just a store; it’s a cultural moment.
Get to know the the KB Foundation on October 15. For info and registration to the free event. HERE Lots of notables are involved mentoring the young adults, giving them life skills and help reaching the next level of success.
The Rodin has a new sign, it’s big, and you can see it easily across the Parkway to the new Calder Gardens, which i suspect was one of the reasons they created such a sign. Also they took the word Museum off. No one really called it the Rodin Museum anyway.
Just like no one really ever called the PMA, the Philadelphia Museum of Art. We usually just called it PMA or Philadelphia Art Museum, which is now it’s new name, or will be announced on October 8. I am just observant as I live across the street and noticed the new signage, which was definitely done by the same people who did the Rodin sign. I like the new name, and am wondering if they are going to nickname it PAM, although I have heard it’s going to be PhAM, which might be confusing as we have a group called Phambassadors.
The Phambassadors just signed up their 5000 Pham to the volunteer program. These folks will help tourists find their way when they come to events over the years. AS well as will promote Philly in the smallest of terms, on their socials, in their everyday life sharing their joy and love for Philadelphia. #JoinThePham
Thanks for tuning in today. See you on the socials.
Imagine strolling down Chestnut Hill’s Germantown Avenue on a leafy fall evening as storefront windows glow with vibrant images of the past, historic films flicker against brick walls, and the architecture around you comes alive in light. That’s the magic of Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s Night of Lights, returning October 3–6, 2025 with another dazzling celebration of history, art, and community.
Now in its ninth year, Night of Lights transforms Chestnut Hill’s main street into a free, open-air exhibition. Six themed projection sites will feature archival images, historic films, and neighborhood stories drawn from the Conservancy’s rich collections and community partners. Paired with architectural lighting, the effect is nothing short of enchanting — a walkable gallery that invites you to “look up” and rediscover the legacy of Northwest Philadelphia.
The festivities begin on Friday, October 3 at 6:30 PM, when the Conservancy hosts its “Flip the Switch” ceremony at 8708 Germantown Avenue. From there, the lights shine nightly from 7:00–9:00 PM, bathing the corridor in color and memory.
Following the opening ceremony, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, kickoff festivities will include music from various acts, including local jazz group Limited Time Only (LTO), Flute of the Spirit, Rich Rudin and Lynn Riley from Maplewood Music Studio, Matteo Bofinger, Ralph Salerno, Second Story Walkup, and Students of Yes! And…Collaborative Arts.
Highlights This Year
After opening night, the exhibition continues nightly from 7 pm to 9 pm.
A chance to connect with local shops and restaurants, many offering extended hours and specials to pair with your evening stroll.
Six themed projection windows exploring local history and design.
Elbrun Kimmelman, Thea Little, Helen Little, Peter Kimmelman, and Barbara Walkowski
On September 19, Opera Philadelphia raised the curtain on its 2025/26 season with a night of glamour, bold artistry, and a touch of tech magic. Opera Philadelphia’s 50th anniversary, highlighted by Vox Ex Machina, a singular event that married music and visual art through groundbreaking technology.
Phillisa Cooper and Robert Cooper
John Wind, Bill Osman, Jerry Wind and Barbara Eberlein
Katherine Niven
Youngmoo Kim and Charlene Bierl, with Lucy Clemens in the background
Makiya Dehove, Kathryn McGovern and Tara Monte
Jo Tiongson-Perez, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at the Penn Museum
John DiGiulio and Cookie D’Orio
VIP guests headed upstairs for a pre concert reception, before the opening night.
Tickets for the performance embraced the company’s new “Pick Your Price” model—starting at just $11—continuing the vision of General Director and President Anthony Roth Costanzo to expand access to opera in Philadelphia. The Gala tickets were a different price level.
After the show, guests went on their way, while the Gala guests made their way to the Reading Terminal for the party. They were taken by shuttles in their glittery gowns and black tie.
I spy Henri David in the upper right corner. He told me that indeed the Henri David Halloween Ball will be taking place on October 31 at the Kimmel Center again this year.
The celebration didn’t end at the final bow. Gala guests strolled to the Reading Terminal Market for a festive dinner among Philadelphia’s most iconic food stalls. They feasted on market fare, bid on the one-of-a-kind artworks created during the performance, and mingled in an atmosphere that was part elegant soirée, part neighborhood party. From traditional tables for Gold Sponsors to casual lounge seating, the experience perfectly reflected Opera Philadelphia’s spirit: daring, democratic, and joyfully untraditional.
Charles Fryer, Chairman of the Board Philadelphia Opera and Judith Freyer
Thi Phan wearing a beautiful head piece
Several vendors were open on gala night, and guests chose from them for their dinner.
Brett Frankel, Dave Ferguson and Abby Weissman
The evening’s schedule flowed seamlessly—from a cocktail reception in the Academy’s ballroom, to the performance at 6:00 p.m., to the grand finale at Reading Terminal Market. And with a dress code calling for “high drama—your operatic finest,” guests rose to the occasion in full style.
Singer Laurin Talese, Anthony Roth Costanzo , Opera Philadelphia as General Director & President and Ramón Jones, Executive Director, Philadelphia Chapter of The Recording Academy
Anthony auctions off artwork which was created onstage earlier in the night. Each piece sold for at least $500. Plus he sold two dinners, where he would perform, $12ks each.
The art work was created by the Vox Ex Machina which translate singing into live art with vibrations. Developed in partnership with Drexel University’s ExCITe Center and artist/technologist Daniel Belquer, the specially designed machine transformed pitch and volume into visual works of art, created live onstage as opera luminaries performed beloved arias alongside new music. Audiences watched in awe as sound became color, a fitting tribute to five decades of innovation in opera.
Looking ahead, the season continues with Opera Overtures: Il viaggio a Reims this week and Vivaldi’s The Season’s in December, promising more unforgettable nights that blend Philadelphia’s rich cultural heritage with bold new visions for the future.
2100 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy in a 2009 photo I took after it was announced the Calder would be built on this location
I’ve been a huge fan of the Calder family ever since the 1990s, when my friend Greta Greenberger, the former tour director of Philadelphia City Hall, introduced me to their work. She even encouraged me to take the classes that led to my becoming an official tour guide. My beat was City Hall, home to 250 Calder sculptures.
When I gave these tours with the Philadelphia Foundation of Architecture, I would highlight the Calder dynasty of artists whose works are embedded in Philadelphia’s landscape. From Alexander Milne Calder’s William Penn crowning City Hall,
to Alexander Stirling Calder’s Swann Memorial Fountain in Logan Circle, to Alexander “Sandy” Calder’s Ghost suspended in the Grand Stair Hall of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, he was best known for his paintings and mobiles which utilized carefully orchestrated weighting to balance, move and suspend each piece in the air.
The newly opened Calder Gardens
Last week, a long-held dream came to life with the official opening of Calder Gardens on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The new sanctuary celebrates the legacy of sculptor Alexander “Sandy” Calder, uniting the visionary architecture of Herzog & de Meuron with the masterful landscapes of Piet Oudolf.
The 1.8-acre site is unlike a traditional museum—its low-slung, curved structure blends into sweeping meadows and gardens filled with more than 250 varieties of perennials and grasses that shift with the seasons, making nature as much a part of the experience as the art itself.
Elan Gentry, guest. Sandy Rower, grandson of Alexander Calder and president and founding director of the foundation, artist Maria Robledo and Holton Rower, grandson of Alexander Calder,
When the Barnes Foundation approached Alexander “Sandy” Rower, Calder’s grandson and president of the Calder Foundation, about creating a museum, his vision was something different: not a museum, but a sanctuary. That idea became Calder Gardens, a one-and-a-half-acre oasis of reflection along Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Pierre and Dominique de Meuron and Jason and Amanda Frantzen – The architects and their wives. I had a nice chat with Jason and Amanda. Jason answered a lot of questions I had about the building and inspiration. Originally it was going to be above ground, but seemed to compete too much with the surrounding area, and hence it was built underground.
Designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, the building itself sinks into the earth, while the surrounding gardens are the work of Piet Oudolf, the celebrated Dutch plantsman behind the High Line and Lurie Garden. At 80, Oudolf remains passionate about the restorative power of nature, noting, “Beauty is what we need in life next to war and all this craziness.” – From Elle Magazine
Ilana Dean, James Claiborne, Nico Hartzell, all of the Barnes Foundation, with Ann Temkin, formerly with the Phila Art Museum, now with Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and Wayne Hendrickson, biophysicist at Columbia University
Calder Gardens represents a distinctive partnership: the Calder Foundation provides the curatorial vision, while the Barnes Foundation contributes administrative and operational expertise through an innovative resource-sharing model.
The building—a gently curved structure with a softly shimmering metal-clad north facade and an understated wood south facade reminiscent of Calder’s own bohemian home in Connecticut—was designed by Pritzker Prize–winning firm Herzog & de Meuron.
In this setting where architecture and nature commune, visitors will find a wide range of works by Calder both inside and outside. The artworks on display will change over time and include rarely seen masterpieces, some on public view for the first time.
Andee Friedrich and Suzanne Deal Booth is a philanthropist, vintner, and an advocate for the preservation of cultural heritage
Interesting, in a departure from the traditional museum approach, wherein didactic information is presented alongside works on view, Calder’s mobiles, stabiles, paintings, and drawings will be presented without labels that provide titles, dates, and texts explaining how best to understand and interpret them. By allowing the artworks to speak for themselves, Calder Gardens proposes an open-ended experience that encourages visitors to take their time and react to Calder’s art in their own way and at their own pace.
Joe Neubauer, Sam and Elizabeth Warshawer
“Calder Gardens is a vision born from passion, persistence, and the belief that Philadelphia deserves this cultural treasure,” says Joe Neubauer, founding board member of the Trustees of Calder Gardens and one of Calder Gardens’ greatest supporters. “In a time of global uncertainty, we came together to create a place where art and nature offer healing, inspiration, and connection—brought to life by three world-class artists: Alexander Calder, Herzog & de Meuron, and Piet Oudolf. I’m deeply proud to have helped bring this to our city for generations to come.”
Ali Perelman, Amaya Capellan, and Marsha Perelman, Calder Gardens Board Chair
Calder Gardens comes alive throughout the year with programs inspired by Calder’s experimental spirit.
Jeanette and Joseph Neubauer Philanthropist, do gooders, we’re lucky to have them in Philadelphia.
From artist-led audio walks and live performances to screenings, readings, and community gatherings, each experience transforms the gardens into a space for exchange and renewal—where culture, nature, and imagination meet.
Tucked within Calder Gardens is a quiet nook that pays homage to the Calder lineage, celebrating Alexander Calder alongside his father, Alexander Stirling Calder and grandfather, Alexander Milne Calder, who each left their own artistic mark.
Susan Braeuer Dam, Director of Research and Publications at Calder Foundation and Director of Archives at Calder Foundation
At ground level, visitors can step into an outdoor space where a porous wall invites nature to take over. Over the next five years, it will slowly transform, becoming a living wall of vibrant greenery.
Artist Holton Rower, grandson of Alexander Calder and his artist wife Maria Robledo walk through the newly opened Calder Gardens
Thank you. Walk, don’t run to experience Calder Gardens. If Philadelphia wasn’t already firmly on the map for its world-class art museums, Calder Gardens (and yes, forgive me if I call it a museum) will secure its place as a premier art destination. The building and grounds alone are breathtaking, but inside, the Calder works themselves are nothing short of spectacular. With pieces rotating in and out on loan from the foundation, private collections, and museums around the globe every visit offers something new to discover. Deep gratitude to everyone who shepherded this masterpiece from vision to reality.
The bike Race Is Back!! And I think it’s safe to say: Made in America is now history (it’s been dormant for 3 years, and missed the deadline to file for the 2026 permit); Plus other things to ChitChat, let’s get into it…
It was a good ride 🚴♀️ – it put Philly on the map and gave us unforgettable moments. Fittingly, former Mayor Michael Nutter, who helped bring MIA here, is also behind the return of the Philadelphia Cycling Classic. 🚴♂️
On August 30, 2026, a few days before Made In America would normally be held, we ride into the future — from beats to bikes, Philly keeps showing the world how we do big events. 💙✨
There will be both a 62-mile women’s race and a 120-mile men’s race on the event’s original 14.4-mile circuit.
The race is sponsored by AmeriGas Propane and owned by Race Street Partners, whose organization which not only includes former Mayor Michael Nutter, financier Eric Robbins and business owner Carlos Rogers, with veteran race organizer and pro team manager Robin Morton, principal of g4 Productions, returns as race director. (Press Release)
Did you know that the former First Lady of Philadelphia, Lisa Nutter is an amateur competitive cyclist. She’s the 2024 ICI Masters Track Cycling Worlds Silver Medalist !! 🏆
Another Return: 🐦✨ The chimney swifts are swirling at 19th & Wood around sunset (one street north of Vine Street, near the Free Library), before diving into the old school chimney for the night 🌆🔥 Pro tip: don’t stand right under them… I caught a couple “lucky” 💩 drops last night 😂🍀This phenomenal will continue for at least a week during bird migration.
Speaking of the Free Library, congratulations to former Councilwomen Blondell Reynolds Brown on her autobiography officially being launched tomorrow night at the Philadelphia Free Library at 6:15pm. Get your tickets
Social season has begun, it’s barely been a week but so many fun events have happened. Photos have been distributed to Philly Style Magazine and Main Line Today, but don’t fret this season I will be publishing here as well. Tonight I have the Calder Museum opening, and a very special dinner with friends. Tomorrow. The Salvation Army Luncheon, the Mayor’s Reception, and KYW’s 60th Anniversary Party.
Odin Properties has broken ground on Sepviva Lofts, with many great partnerships involved on local, state and federal levels.
Odin Properties has broken ground on Sepviva Lofts, a $20 million affordable housing project at 2201 E. Tioga St. in Kensington/Harrowgate, near the Tioga Station of the Market-Frankford Line. The 51-unit development, set to open in 2026, will provide homes for residents earning 20–50% of the area’s median income.
Maria Buckley, Peter Dilsheimer, Development Manager at Odin Properties Cody Worthington, Development and Acquisitions Analyst at Odin Properties, Philip Balderston, Founder and CEO of Odin Properties and Isabelle Harvey
This is great news for Philly as the four-story project will offer a mix of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments with long-term deed restrictions that keep the homes affordable for at least 40 years.
Lukas Kulikauskas, Tom Young, Scott Lyons and Thomas Pyle – Domus Construction
Construction is slated to finish by late 2026, with plans including 44 parking spaces and a new on-site play area.
Liquitta Robinson andBianca Waliddin, is Executive Director of Liberty Housing Development Corporation
Financing includes federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits; Odin says Sepviva Lofts is Philadelphia’s first 9% LIHTC construction closing of 2025, utilizing the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency’s 2024 allocation.
Ryan Sanders, Manager, Union II Operations and Rachael Pritzker, Esq.
The Sepviva Lofts project is transforming a long-vacant industrial parcel that once housed Penn Galvanizing into a vibrant new residential community.
Klissa Thomas, Advocate for Youth and Families and Jasmine Sessoms
This marks Odin’s first ground-up affordable development, a significant milestone for a company that has primarily focused on adaptive reuse projects like Collins Lofts and East Tioga Lofts.
Ed Hillis, Founder & President of DOMUS, Michael Johns, public architect with the Philadelphia Housing Authority and Anne Fadullon, Senior Advisor at Spring Garden Capital Advisors and as the Founder and Principal Partner of MAKE Advisory Services, LLC.
Sepviva Lofts also fits into Odin’s broader pipeline of roughly 250 affordable units planned across Philadelphia and Atlantic City, signaling a deeper commitment to creating sustainable, community-focused housing options in neighborhoods where investment and opportunity are needed most.
Joseph DeFelice, HUD Assistant Deputy Secretary for FPM and Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator. and Councilman Mike Driscoll
Joseph DeFelice told the guests that he was personally excited for this project as he, and his wife were raised in this area.
Business leaders including David Thomas, President and CEO of PHDC, Blane Stoddard, Managing Principal of RB Development, Robin Wiessman, Executive Director & CEO of PHEA, Jessie Lawrence, Director of Planning and Developement, office of Mayor Cherelle L Parker, break ground on Sepviva Lofts in Kennsington
Excited for the future of much needed affordable housing in Philadelphia
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City once again served as the proud presenting sponsor of the Atlantic-Cape Out of the Darkness Community Walk on Saturday, September 6, 2025, benefiting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Hard Rock
Taking place along the Atlantic City Boardwalk, Over the years, the Atlantic-Cape Walk has grown into the largest AFSP walk in New Jersey, raising more than $1 million since its inception, with Hard Rock’s leadership and contributions helping to drive record-breaking fundraising totals.
Bob Kelly, Fox29 emceed the annual event
Maddie’s Rockers
Many friends and family members walked in remembrance of a loved one.
Dear Person behind me, the world is a better place with you in it. Love the person in front of you.
Hard Rock General Manager Michael Sampson speaks to the crowd
Michael Sampson “I am joining hundreds of thousands of people across the country who are walking in the Out of the Darkness Community Walks to prevent suicide and support AFSP’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. I walk for very personal reasons, I have lost a loved one to suicide and had many other friends and family who have lived with challenging mental health issues. My goal has always been to help one person or one family, by preventing a tragic loss. “
friends participating in the Walk on Saturday
Honor Beads
One of the most moving parts of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Walks is the tradition of honor beads. Each color tells a story and represents a walker’s personal connection to the cause—white for those who’ve lost a child, red for a spouse or partner, gold for a parent, orange for a sibling, purple for a relative or friend, and silver for a first responder or member of the military. Green signifies a personal struggle, teal represents supporting a loved one who struggles, and blue shows solidarity as an AFSP supporter. As participants walk side by side, the beads create a powerful tapestry of remembrance, resilience, and hope, reminding everyone that they are not alone in their journey.
Jared Lombardi Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Advocate 💜 Founder/Director @the_positive_pursuit 🌻 @ourgardenac explained the bead colors to the walkers. He wears a green one, as I do.
But I’ve never have had the courage to wear it, even though I’ve volunteered for over a decade on behalf of the AFSP and to save lives. I still have such shame about attempting to end my life, three times in my 20s, before seeking treatment, and getting sober which helped tremendously.
This year the AFSP South Jersey chapter honored the Atlantic City Police Department, for their life saving actions in saving multiple lives over the years, and most recently over the summer they saved a mans life.
They’re walking for Rick, the women in the center’s son.
Stopping suicide begins with breaking the silence and reminding one another that help is always within reach. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention works year-round to provide education, resources, and support for those impacted by suicide.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember you are not alone. You can dial or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to be immediately connected with trained counselors who are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. By sharing this simple three-digit number and keeping the conversation open, we can spread hope, save lives, and work together to #StopSuicide.
Sorry for the late posting on this, it’s always an emotional day for me, remembering the dark days. Sometimes they rear their ugly head, but now I have the tools to deal with my depression.
On October 5 the AFSP Philadelphia chapter has their walk at the Mann. My friend Stephanie Elizabeth Algayer recently lost a good friend to suicide. She’s walking in the AFSP Walk.
Hello everyone. Today is “World Suicide Prevention Day.” As some of you may and some of you may not know. We lost an amazing friend, son, sibling, uncle, talented photographer, and one of a kind human being this July. Jon ( was my boyfriend Teddy’s absolute best friend (more like brother) since they were 9 years old. I was more than lucky & so thankful to have gotten to know Jon, and for him to become like a brother to me for these past few years. We miss him dearly and will forever have a huge piece missing from our lives without him here. Donate Here – Stephanie Elizabeth Algayer
Another in a series of who, what, when and where you should be…
Thanks to my anonymous tipster last night who sent me a photo of Former President Joe Biden leaving Stephen Starr’s new eatery Borromini. It was popular on IG last night garnering 60ks views, DURING the Eagles game. Which was surprising. I guess we all can multitask.
It was a family affair with Dr Jill Biden, the President, daughter Ashley and the grand kids, all on hand to celebrate Finnegan James Biden’s birthday. Finnegan is the second child of Hunter Biden and Kathleen Buhle. I hear the former president entered through the back door with Jill (I once photographed Playboy model Kendra Wilkinson leaving through the back door of Barnes & Noble, so I know exactly where that is), the rest of the family went through the front door for their 6:30pm reservation.
Stephen Starr event stopped by the table and chitchatted.
It seems Ashley Biden left a note on Stephen Starr’s
daughter Sarah Starr’s IG the evening before saying they’d be going to dinner the following night.
No thanks to the people who told me they knew they’d be there, didn’t tell me, but needed to add their two cents in my DM’s after seeing my IG post. I almost went last night because I thought it’d be easier to get a reservation against the Eagles opening night.
In other news, congratulation to former NBC10 anchor, reporter Frances Wang, who is living her dream job at ABC7 News in the Bay area, not to far from where she grew up. She’d always tell me she wanted to return to California to be closer to her family, and cover the news in an area she knew well, and cared so much for. So happy for her!!
It’s time to say goodbye to another friendly face:
After 2 years, my time at Fox 29 has ended! It’s home, familiar, comfortable, and brought me so much joy. I grew as a reporter, made lifelong friends, was nominated for an Emmy, & did countless impactful stories. I’m forever grateful for the experience to work at the station I interned at nearly 10 years ago. However, it’s time for a new chapter that challenges me & provides more opportunities. Here’s to what’s next ✌🏿👀 Cheyenne Corin
Save The Date
The Fight On Makenna Foundation is serving up something extraordinary: Chef Brian Duffy will headline this year’s Bite for the Fight Food Festival on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 12 – 4 p.m. at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center & Fairgrounds in Oaks, Pa.
This feast-for-a-cause will bring together bold flavors, local favorites, and culinary creativity—all to honor National Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month. With a goal of raising $200,000 for vital patient care initiatives, every bite promises to make a difference.
Reality TV fans will have the opportunity to meet celebrity guest Margaret Josephs from the Real Housewives of New Jersey, who will do a meet and greet and premiere her new mixer Drink Soiree.
TONIGHT at the Philadelphia Museum of Art King Saladeen is giving his First Museum Panel Talk about his Journey and Career ,”Total Honor to Represent my City all over the World ‼️From Day dreaming of this moment ,Thank you” King Saladeen. 6PM to 8PM
Afterwards head to the Barnes Foundation for First Friday and to listen to jazz and soul vocalist Laurin Talese who performs at 6:30pm and 7:45PM. She won the 2018 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition and represented the United States as a cultural ambassador with American Music Abroad in 2019, and last night she performed at the Eagles game singing “Lift Every Voice!” before the start of the game. I can see a lot of folks dressed to the nines running along the Parkway to catch each of these fabulous shows.
NEWS: Ensemble Arts Philly is excited to kick off Philadelphia’s robust arts and culture season with the fifth annual FREE Philadelphia Fall Arts Feston Saturday, September 13, from 11 AM to 3 PM. Featuring a diverse sampling of festival-style performances on multiple stages inside the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, this event brings together 50+ arts organizations from around the region to shine a spotlight on the rich arts and culture community of the Philadelphia area.
Love the new signage of the xfinity mobile ARENA. The colors are fabulous. It looks like completely different building. Photo provided by Comcast Spectacor.
What a beautiful tribute to my friend Carol Saline, who truly was everyone’s friend. Philly Mag alum Lisa DePaulo wrote a moving piece using an unpublished photo I took (one I’d only shared with Carol and Paul). Reading it makes me wish I’d kept sending in photo columns after my column was cut—proof that people do value these moments, even two months after said event. PS She was let go at one point, but kept showing up for work, eventually they rehired her. LOL
That’s it for now. Have a great weekend. I’m heading to AC to the Hard Rock Casino where they host and sponsor The Out of The Darkness walk tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing my friends, including Fox29’s Good Day traffic and all around nice guy, Bob Kelly, who is MCing. Look for my coverage here, on CBSPhilly and on Social Media, where now I have a collaborative partnership with Fox29 and my content appears on their Instagram as well.
Plus Who Was In The Room for this historic announcement.
Philadelphia is gearing up for the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026 and this time, the celebrations won’t just be downtown.
On Wednesday, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker unveiled “Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration,” a citywide initiative designed to bring America’s birthday party directly into neighborhoods across the city.
“Philadelphia is ready for America’s 250th — Ring It On!” Parker said during the announcement at the Independence Visitor Center. “My administration is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for residents across our great city to enjoy this historic milestone, while sharing in the economic, cultural, and civic benefits of 2026.”
“Philadelphia, America’s birthplace, is putting our residents at the heart of the nation’s 250th birthday,” said Michael Newmuis, 2026 Director, City of Philadelphia. “Not only are we hosting a year of exciting major events, but we’re creating lasting opportunities for our communities while showcasing Philadelphia to the world. We’re seizing a once-in-a-generation chance to attract global attention, investment, and energy, ensuring a celebration that uplifts our city and its people for years to come.”
At today’s press conference, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker introduced Philadelphia to “Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration” — a bold new program that will bring America’s 250th birthday party into neighborhoods across the city.
Jazelle Jones,City Representative and Director of Special Events
The “Ring It On” investments fall into three key categories:
✨ Activations – Neighborhood festivals, tours, and cultural experiences designed to spotlight Philadelphia’s communities and bring residents together around history, arts, and civic pride.
🌿 Beautification – Citywide efforts to uplift and refresh neighborhoods, from painted Liberty Bells and public art installations to community cleanups and streetscape improvements that reflect Philly’s spirit.
🎉 Celebrations – Block parties, concerts, and family-friendly gatherings that bring the energy of the nation’s birthday into every corner of the city, ensuring everyone can take part in the Semiquincentennial.
“Philadelphia is ready for America’s 250th — Ring It On!” Parker declared, underscoring her vision to make 2026 not just a historic milestone for the nation, but a moment of unity and pride for every Philadelphian.
With this framework, the city is making sure the celebration isn’t just about Center City or historic sites, but a yearlong party rooted in neighborhoods
— by the people, for the people. KEEP up to date on all the fun events by following the Philadelphia 250 Website.
I was impressed by the strong turnout for the Philadelphia 2026 press conference, postponed from earlier this summer. Stakeholders, business leaders, hospitality pros, and Philly cheerleaders like Jackie Lewis (forefront) and Sheila Hess packed the crowd.
Vincent Thompson, Communications Director Philadelphia City Council left black shirt, brown shirt – Jack Tomzuk, Metro Newspaper, Martin Alfaro, Alfaro Media Consulting LLC and Joe Grace, a spokesperson for Mayor Cherelle L. Parker; red hair Valerie Gay, Director of Creative Philadelphia
Jennifer Nagle, Vice President, External Affairs & Special Projects @ Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau and Greg Caron, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, Laura Swartz, Philly Mag, Joe Val, Ally Management Partners, and Fox 29 Camera Person who I adore but can’t remember her name.
Tiffany Tavarez, Jefferson’s Office of Community Impact and Belonging and the team from Jefferson Health, a sponsor of Philadelphia 250
Everett Jackson — aka Mr. Hollywood DJ — has been on the grind for over a decade, carving out his own lane as Philly’s go-to vibe maker. He’s the Flyers’ in-house DJ, rocks the Phillies and Eagles rally bus, and shines as a host/MC. From the Spartan Race to strutting as a Mummer, Everett proves you really can do it all. His genre? Hard work, good vibes, and being one of the nicest guys around.
Meg Kane, Signature 57, Cari Feiler Bender, Relief Communications, LLC, and Tony Sorrentino, chief executive officer of the Fairmount Park Conservancy
Meg Kane is the President & CEO of Signature 57 and the Host City Executive for Philadelphia Soccer 2026, leading the city’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup—from logistics to messaging—ensuring Philly is ready for the global stage. Cari Feiler Bender, representing Historic Philadelphia, is gearing up for the city’s big birthday with 52 Weeks of Firsts! All through 2026, Philly will shine a spotlight on its incredible legacy of “firsts”—from inventions to iconic places to unforgettable celebrations—educating, commemorating, and showing off 250 years of creativity and ingenuity, one week at a time. Fairmount Park Conservancy just announced the appointment of Anthony “Tony” Sorrentino as its new Chief Executive Officer! comes from University of Pennsylvania, where he most recently served as Associate Vice President in the Office of the Executive Vice President. More on Tony here.
Nicole Cashman, Matt Ray, Kathryn Ott Lovell, Erika Murillo and Michael Newmius
More of the Team behind the scenes of Philadelphia 250 Planning: Nicole Cashman, Founder and CEO of Cashman & AssociatesMatthew Ray, who’s Chatterblast company helped with the branding of Philadelphia 250 and “Ring It On!”, Sudha Suryadevara, Chief of Staff at the Philadelphia Visitor Center, Kathryn Ott Lovell President and CEO Philadelphia Visitor Center and President and CEO Philadelphia250, Erika Battle Murillo, Vice President, 2026 Initiatives · PHL 250/Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and Michael Newmius, Philadelphia Director of 2026
Michael Newmius, and Tyrone Dixon, Deputy Director 2026 | City of Philadelphia
Big congrats to Tyrone Dixon on being named Deputy Director 2026! He’ll be joining the leadership team under Michael Newmuis to ensure a smooth and successful 2026!!
Spotted & Overheard: Scott Mirkin from Roc Nation was deep in conversation with Live Nation’s Geoff Gordon. Across the room, Angela Val and George Leone were comparing notes on the Navy and Marine galas set for early fall. (Insider tip: keep your eyes on the Delaware River—a big boat parade and a concert to remember are coming. Bill Gehrman and Tracy Buchholz who were in the room have all the details on those events Enroute Marketing dropped the details on their IG.)
PECO’s David Vahos and Doug Oliver made an appearance—cheers to PECO for stepping up as a 2026 sponsor. I caught Laura Burkhardt mentioning her consulting biz is booming, including a project with Avenue of the Arts… and word is, that stretch will be a big stage for 2026 festivities. Cassandra Coleman, Director of Pennsylvania 2026, Rep. Jared Solomon and Councilperson Rue Landau.
Ensemble Arts’ Leslie Patterson-Tyler looked like she’s already in countdown mode for the 5th Annual FREE Philadelphia Fall Arts Fest (mark it: Saturday, September 13, 11 AM–3 PM).
But the true comedy act? Nicole Cashman wrangling Philly’s mascots as the program began. Franklin kept ringing the bell, Gritty wouldn’t surrender the mic, and the scene turned full “Three Stooges” with five mascots battling for attention. Pure Philly entertainment.
Last night, Stephen Starr gave Philadelphia a first taste of his latest blockbuster: Borromini, a $20 million Italian trattoria that now occupies the former Rittenhouse Barnes & Noble. The preview party drew a packed crowd ahead of the official public opening on Monday, August 25, 2025—a date that feels destined for Philly dining history, much like 07/07/07 was for the start of my blog.
Susan Klehr and Joshua Levine, COO at Starr
The space itself is a showstopper: two stories and more than 15,000 square feet, with multiple first-floor dining rooms, fun nooks and crannies for see and be seen, or I don’t want to be seen, a massive bar overlooking Walnut Street, upstairs seating, and a patio that peers out over leafy Rittenhouse Square.
Designed by Keith McNally,Ian McPheely, and Stokes Architecture & Design, the restaurant was crafted to feel like it had already lived on the square for a century—right down to its custom chandeliers, mosaics and old world charm.
James Beard Winner, Stephen Starr and daughter Sarah Starr, Project Manager at STARR Restaurant Group
“Borromini is a restaurant I have long dreamed of bringing to life,” Starr, the founder of STARR Restaurant Group, said in a news release to CBSPhiladelphia. “It’s timeless, grounded in authenticity, and thoughtfully crafted. The dishes are comforting and familiar, yet refined with subtle nuance. Borromini will become a place guests return to for everything from special occasions to weekly family dinners.”
Megan Walsh, Borromini Executive Chef Julian Baker, Billy Walsh and Jennifer Rosser
The Starr team traveled through Italy to curate a menu that balances classics with star power, which was created in partnership with award-winning chef Mark Ladner, also features fish and meat dishes, including branzino, lamb scottadito and bistecca alla fiorentina. Executive Chef Julian Baker, whose career spans Michelin-starred restaurants, hotel kitchens, and Italian dining institutions will lead Borromini.
Rittenhouse Square residents, Daniel Grobman, Jeff Paralis, and Joe Tordella,
Borromini isn’t just another Starr restaurant—it’s his grand return to Philly, especially Rittenhouse Square after years of expanding his empire from Miami to New York. With more than 40 restaurants up and down the East Coast and a 2017 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurateur, Starr has defined Philadelphia’s dining identity more than anyone in the past three decades.
The foundation was laid in the early ’90s by Neil Stein—the cool, sunglasses-at-the-café visionary who fought for sidewalk dining and gave Rittenhouse its chic, European flair. Stein’s early venture into the Philadelphia restaurant scene moved the needle, and Starr built on it, transforming Philadelphia into a world-class dining city with themed concepts, consistent execution, and one of the most loyal hospitality teams in the business.
Collin Shotwell and Dylan Fassari grab a bite from the plentiful dishes clam pizzetta,, Foccaccia di Recco, house pastas, and for dessert chocolate olive cake and ice cream in a cone
Joel Dukart, Natalie Foglietta, Michael’s Giving Hand and Jeff Benjamin, Co Founder/COO VetriRestaurant Corp
Anthony “Tony” Sorrentino as its new Chief Executive Officer of Fairmount Park, with Angela Val, of Visit Philly. Tony has been a long time board member of Visit Philly.
I’ve always been a big fan of Shannon St. Clair as a person, and as a great content creator and when she asked me to photographer her and beau Kyle Maylish, making it official, I can see she gets me. Thanks for letting me be the first to officially announce why your posts have put that smile on your face!!
Samantha Fichter, Vince DeFruscio and Liana Daywalt – Fox 29 Producers Catch me with Drew Anderson on Fox20 live stream, Sunday at 10AM where I will be talking about the Borromino opening night, as well as Diner En Blanc and what’s happening this week that you should know about…I just had my 13th anniversary as a contributor to Fox29 and will also be reminiscing on my favorite stories, I’ve captured many great star sightings at STARR Restaurants, as you know.
When the stars come to town, they dine at Starr. I’ve captured more than my share, in June I photographed Former President Biden goint to breakfast while Amazon Prime was shooting Reacher. That was fun.
SPEAKING of Anniversaries: Celebrating 10 years with Cashman & Assocs, Sofia Suwala, Director of Public Relations with the Queen of Philly PR Nicole Cashman, Founder and CEO Cashman & Associates and STARR PR for two decades. I remember the fabulous opening of Butcher & Singer in 2008. One of the first STARR parties I photographed.
Stephen and Mary Oteri, Andrew Kozak, CBSPhiladelphia and actress Cheri Oteri
Party hoppers Jen Su, and Donna Coghlan were at Diner en Blanc with moi earlier in the night, but definitely didn’t want to miss the opening party of the year, here with Brett Silver
Dr. Thanuja Hamilton, Sleep Doctor to the Stars, including me. Did you catch her segment on FOX29 on Monday, where she discussed best practices to sleep through the night, Nicholas Perugino,Lt. Hunter Woods and Michael Newmuis, 2026 Director for Philadelphia
Matthew Ray, CHATTERBLAST and Ray Smerglio. Big news for both of them on the horizon. Matt and I have a project coming up, a long time in the coming. Ray who I see many early mornings at the Sporting Club is looking to get back into teaching spin classed before he heads to his full time job. So if you are looking for a spin class teacher, he’s looking. I took one of his charity classes benefiting AACR a few years back, and it was refreshing and he is invigorating.
The bar’s a showstopper — towering amaro list, a tomato gin martini already gunning for “drink of the season,” and the kind of perch where I can see myself lingering over more than a few dinners.
John Colabelli, Publisher of Phila Style Magazine and Ellen Yin, of High Street Hospitality.
