The 45th Annual Elwyn Ball was a dazzling celebration of community, compassion, and commitment to empowering individuals with diverse abilities.
Karli Franick and Jessica Saltalamacchia
Held at the elegant Ballroom of the Bellevue Hotel (which by the way looks amazing after it’s renovation), the evening brought together supporters, advocates, and partners for an unforgettable night of dinner, dancing, and heartfelt moments.
Leslie Billhymer, Principal at Corona Partners Real Estate and Lauren Leonard, Senior Project Manager Real Estate & Construction
Guests honored Elwyn’s enduring legacy of service and innovation, while raising critical funds to support its vital programs in education, behavioral health, and disability services.
Honorees Judy and Bill, Sr. Strine
This year, Elwyn are honored to recognize Bill and Judy Strine for their steadfast dedication to Elwyn’s mission of enriching the lives of individuals facing developmental and behavioral health challenges. Thanks to their extraordinary $1 million gift for Elwyn’s Judy and Bill Strine Student Transition Center to life. This new center helps young adults ages 18 to 21 build independence and develop job skills as they transition into adulthood. Their generosity is already changing lives and will continue to shape many more for generations to come.
Kyle Woodland and Sen Shariff Street
A particularly moving moment of the evening came from Elwyn alumnus Kyle Woodland, now CEO of KWS Productions, who reflected on his inspiring path—from beginning early intervention services at Elwyn at just two years old to establishing a successful career in entertainment and advocacy. “Some people say it’s not how you start, but how you finish,” he shared. “For children with differences, how you start makes all the difference.” His powerful message highlighted the lasting impact of Elwyn’s mission and the critical role early support plays in shaping futures.
Michele Deuterman and Steve Morris
Guests enjoyed a gourmet dinner and elegant atmosphere as Elwyn President & CEO Chuck McLister shared exciting details of Elwyn’s most ambitious capital campaign to date, including plans for a new school and key campus updates that will advance Elwyn’s future and expand its impact. The evening continued with live music and dancing, adding joy and celebration to a night rooted in purpose.
Chelsea Beckett, Deijah Swihard, Cam Goettel and Nadia Whitson
The evening’s mission raise sparked a wave of generosity, with guests contributing $60,317 in just minutes to support Children’s Services. These funds will directly expand resources and opportunities for the youngest individuals we serve, helping them build strong foundations from the start. In total, the event raised $664,722, pushing Elwyn’s Ball’s historic impact to nearly $17 million since its founding in 1980.
From lively tailgates, elegant hats, Derby dress and galloping thoroughbreds, the Radnor Hunt Races brought together timeless tradition, tailgate parties, and steeplechase excitement. At its heart, race day is about more than just the finish line—it’s about “Racing for Open Space.”
For 45 years, the Radnor Hunt Races has proudly supported the Brandywine Conservancy’s mission by raising funds and awareness for its open space preservation and clean water initiatives. In a time when the benefits of nature are more evident than ever, your continued support plays a vital role in protecting these precious resources. By taking part in the Races, you help safeguard open space and ensure a healthier, greener future for generations to come.
Sarah Giordano, Erin Malikaoski, Katie Skog and Jen Skog
This year’s weather was ideal, after the few years of clouds, rain and downright chilly. Chilly it was not. The smarter of the men ventured out without their suit jackets. I was not that smart and was sooo hot! But look how cool this set up was.
Michele Carney, Richard Gere, Marianne Gere and Dawn MichettiRichard Gere’s TableA parade of The Derby Dressed coming from the shopping area. It’s there where you could buy boots or the fanciest of derby hats and bow ties.The Cross/Frick Party, or as I like to call them my OG Friends. Folks I’ve known since nearly the beginning of PhillyChitChat. Hosted by Alissa and Tony Frick (who had a great party Friday night at their new barn, to support Fred’s Footsteps), and Ben Cross with lovely wife Rosemary Connors. Rosemary is in the news today – The Phila Business Journal. She left NBC10 last fall, The longtime anchor and reporter chose to leave the media world behind when her contract expired last fall to start her own business, Rosette Specialty Trades. – Congrats!! I always find out a little nugget when I go to this event. One year she was having a baby, the next year she was leaving NBC10 and now she told me about her new business, which is highly successful. (See Dad I can keep a secret.) It was great to see the Mole Street Boys, Brendan and Brian. Plus the Grindy’s and my longtime bestie girl Erin Como, who left NBC10 nearly 15 years ago to Nashville (I visited her), and then to DC 12 years ago * I haven’t visited her, bad me. Scott Dalesandro, executive chef at The Racquet Club of Philadelphia and Nicholas Pitt, GM of The Racquet Club
I don’t think I got one photo of the horses running, which is nearly typical of me as I am paying attention to the guests.
The Mainliners at the Main Line Today Party: Jennifer Lynn Robinson, Nina Castillo, Jen Su, Nicolette Brycki, Marcia Vanessa Williams, Jaimi Blackburn and Afea TuckerGeorge Coates, Annetta Cortes, Cara Saxe, Kathleen Lambert and Joseph Cortese enjoying what I think it the best tent on site, right outside the clubhouse, at the top of the hill with unobstructed views.
A great day was had by all, but I had to leave at 3PM as I was melting… look for more photos in an upcoming Philly Style Magazine column. Until then…
A notable celebration gathering women of civic engagement and mentorship took place Wednesday morning – The Committee of Seventy hosted its annual Women in Public Leadership event . Among those being recognized was Charisse Lille, Esq., who expressed excitement and gratitude for the honor.
“I am thrilled to be honored by the Committee of Seventy at this important event,” Charisse said. “I look forward to the panel of outstanding leaders who will be discussing the Power of Mentorship.”
Rhonda Cohen, Board Manager of Swarthmore (She married David, graduate of ’77) and Charisse Lillie, Esq., Corporate Executive, Board Member, Consultant
The annual gathering shines a spotlight on women making a meaningful impact in public life and encourages conversations around leadership, equity, and the importance of guiding the next generation. This year’s theme, The Power of Mentorship, brings together a dynamic panel of trailblazers sharing their insights and experiences.
I was especially excited to attend because, back in 1990, my first job as a paralegal was for Camden’s Solicitor, Karen Taylor-Lewis, Esquire (Office of the City Attorney). At the time, Charisse Lillie was serving as Philadelphia’s City Solicitor and was a mentor to my boss Karen. Much of the wisdom and guidance Charisse shared with Karen was then passed along to me. So when I had the chance to meet Charisse nearly 20 years later, in 2009, after I started PhillyChitChat, I was able to share that full-circle moment with her.
The room was filled with many of Charisse’s mentors (men and women) as well as dozens of her mentees. She talked about the responsibility guiding, supporting, and giving advice, drawing from her own experience, to help another person grow, both personally and professionally. And how she carried her mentees as she climb the ladder of her career. Noted her mother’s advice (a teacher), she always treated her students as if they were going to be her boss someday!!
Barbara Adams, The Philadelphia Energy Authority , Loree D. Jones – Brown. Chief Executive Officer of Philabundance and Leslie Anne Miller, Pennsylvania attorney and philanthropist who served as General Counsel of Pennsylvania under Governor Ed Rendell.
Tiffany Tavarez, Jefferson Health’s Office of Community Impact and Belonging (CIB) (She reports to my old mentor Keith Leaphart. I recently had a chance to really thank him for his guidence when I first started out. in 2007) and Varsovia Fernandez, Chief Executive Officer · Pennsylvania CDFI Network
Trish Wellenbach, Board Chair of Jefferson Health and Katie Adams Schaeffer, Senior Director of Leadership Giving at the Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia PASiah McCabe, Project Manager in External Affairs & Operations for Philadelphia Soccer 2026; a Committee of Seventy a 2025 Buchholz Fellows and Madison Eggert-Crowe, Vice President, Political Affairs · ComcastSteve Fera is executive vice president of Public Affairs and president of Government Markets at Independence Blue Cross and Michael Innocenzo, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Exelon
The event featured a panel discussion on the importance of mentorship, moderated by Sue Jacobson, President and CEO of Jacobson Strategic Communications. Panelists included Donna Bullock, Esquire, President and CEO of Project Home and former member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives; Carlyn D. Crawley, MPA, Chief of Staff in the Office of Councilmember Quetcy Lozada and a Buchholz Fellow alumna; and
Trish Wellenbach, Chief Strategy and Partnership Officer in the Office of Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, City of Philadelphia. Experienced Board Director & CEO | Transformative Leader, Value Creator & Difference Maker | Deep Healthcare Background combined with Education & Consumer-centric Business Expertise
I was truly inspired by Trish Wellenbach’s mentorship story. I’ve photographed Trish and her husband Larry McMichael for over a decade and have seen her rise with purpose and grace. At events, she’s always approachable—offering a kind word, thoughtful advice, and genuine connection. On the panel, she shared how Rebecca Rimmel, former president of the Pew Charitable Trusts, mentored her early in her career and even wrote letters of recommendation that helped open doors, something I remember well as people had done the same for me in my paralegal career. Trish now pays that forward, mentoring others with the same generosity—always available, always leading with heart.
As a mentor myself, I can say there’s real joy and fulfillment in guiding others. Watching my mentees grow and succeed fills me with pride—it’s one of the most rewarding experiences in life. I always tell them, pay it forward. Be a mentor to others. We are all in this together!!
On Monday, May 12, 2025, the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation (PVCC) presented the second annual Philly Opener—a celebrated, award-winning celebration and fundraiser—at the Independence Visitor Center (599 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106). The event marks the culmination of National Travel and Tourism Week, uniting industry professionals, community partners, and enthusiastic locals to spotlight the vital role tourism plays in Philadelphia and the surrounding region.
Daniel J. Hilferty is the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Comcast Spectacor, Howie Roseman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Philadelphia Eagles and Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the Most Valuable Philadelphian (MVP) Award, recognizing an individual who has made a significant impact on the city. This year’s honoree Howie Roseman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Philadelphia Eagles, whose leadership has not only brought the team to three Super Bowl appearances and two victories in the past eight years, but also elevated Philadelphia’s profile on the global stage.
Cari Feiler Bender, President and Founder of Relief Communications celebrated her birthday last night at the event. here with Kathryn Ott Lovell, President of the Phila Visitor Center
Guests enjoyed the city and state’s iconic destinations with fun activations and photo moments from the Visitor Center and Visit PA. The culinary experience at the event will showcase the best of Philadelphia’s diverse food scene, including a Taste of Reading Terminal Market, a Taste of the Historic District, and a tasting station from James Beard Award-winning chef Jose Garces featuring Buena Onda in collaboration with Mijenta Tequila.
Christian MolnarDirector of Team Relationships Aileen Dagrosa – Eagles Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Marla Axelrod, Vice President, Deputy General Counsel · Philadelphia Eagles and Rachel Weiss, Eagles General Counsel
Colby Roberts and Denise Berry
Dave Birch, Stella Andersen, Sherry Andersen, Katie Burger and Courtney Auster of Pennsylvania State Tourism. A favorite tourism spot they recommend is is Jim Thorpe, especially Penns peak. As well as Bedford Springs especially the Omni Bedford Resort.
The Phambassadors sign up to volunteer at cool Philly events. HERE
Out and About: Laura Burkhardt and James Zeleniak – Founder | CEO – Punch Media PR
Maria Deluca and Annie Allman of the Reading Terminal Market
Andrew Bergman, OIC Philadelphia, Tiffany Tavarez is Vice President, Community Impact and Strategic Partnerships for Jefferson’s Office of Community Impact, Jane Golden, Mural Arts and Lorina Marshall-Blake, President, Independence Blue Cross Foundation, and Vice President of Community Affairs, Independence Blue Cross
Ben and Betsy with Priya Ahmad and Councilmember Nina Ahmad | At Large
Sadie Mendlow, Cashman & Associates, Britini Lettsome (Fav tourist spots – Reading Terminal, Spruce Street Harbor and Magic Garden) and Colleen Murphy, Phila Visitor Center
Councilmembers Mark Squilla and Isaiah ThomasCity Representative Jazelle Jones
Dignitaries proudly spotlighted what makes our city shine: world-class museums, rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and of course, our unbeatable food scene (yes, cheesesteaks included ). But none of it would be as welcoming without the hardworking folks in hospitality — from hotel staff and tour guides to concierges and event pros — who go the extra mile every day.
Thanks to your warm smiles, helpful tips, and hometown pride, guests leave Philly with amazing memories and a desire to come back for more.
Philly’s star is rising — and it’s all thanks to you!
It’s been radio silence since the Super Bowl, but the Swifthearts are back! Yes, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have finally reemerged after months under the radar—and where did they pop up? Right here in Philly, making their first appearance since Easter 2024. Back then, they spent the weekend cozied up at Jason and Kylie Kelce’s place in Havertown. This time, the lovebirds were spotted at Talula’s Garden in Society Hill, joined by their moms, Donna Kelce and Andrea Swift, and of course, new parents Jason and Kylie and BABY FINN, who was held by Kylie during brunch. The superstar squad of six had a 10 a.m. brunch reservation.
Now here’s where things get extra sweet—literally! Talula’s brunch dessert menu is cheekily titled “Sweet Nothings,” which just might be a wink to Swift’s dreamy ballad “Sweet Nothing” from her 2022 Midnights album. And if that’s not enough to make a Swiftie swoon, each of the five dessert options is priced at $13—Taylor’s famously lucky number. Coincidence? We think not.
With their families blending over brioche and “Sweet Nothings,” it sure looks like true love for these two chart-topping sweethearts.
PS Talula’s Garden is also a fav of Bey and JayZ when they produced the Made in America concert over Labor Day in Philly. That festival seems to have run it’s course. BUT don’t fret, have you heard LL Cool J and Jazmin Sullivan are performing at the Philly July 4th Concert?
PS I don’t know who took the photo of Travis and Taylor, and I would love to credit you. Please drop me a note.
Heartbreaking, and strange. Have you heard that WMMR’s Kathy Romano was let go of the Preston and Steve Show after on 93.3 WMMR after 22 years because her contract was not renewed by Beasley Media Group, the station’s owner.
Romano confirmed her departure from WMMR through a post on Instagram. She stilled showed up to support her long time co-workers and friends at the MMR BBQ over the weekend.
Also making an appearance—rock royalty with a fun twist! Bush stepped in for Alice In Chains, who had to bow out at the last minute, and absolutely brought the energy. Frontman Gavin Rossdale delivered a powerhouse performance, hyping up the crowd and even strolling into the lawn seats at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion to connect with fans up close.
Offstage, Gavin kept the good vibes going. He was spotted over the weekend at the Ritz-Carlton, happily chatting with fans in the lobby, and later doing a bit of shopping along Walnut Street, as well as spotted in Rittenhouse Square on Sunday. With sunshine and great music in the air, it was the perfect day to be out and about.
And that’s just what Mike and I did today—we escaped to the countryside for one of our favorite simple pleasures: a good old-fashioned Sunday drive. Yep, that’s us cruising along at Amish buggy speed, sometimes with the hazards blinking, pulled over to chat with cows and snap a few photos along the way.
On Saturday, I spent the day at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge with The Incolor Birding Club—a Philly-based birding group created for BIPOC birders and their allies. Birding with a group always adds an extra layer of fun, especially when there are knowledgeable leaders who can help identify the birds you’re spotting. (I’m also part of a few birding MeetUp groups—it’s a great way to stay connected and keep exploring!)
This week, Philly’s birding community is buzzing with excitement thanks to a rare sighting at John Heinz Nature Preserve! Local birder Marty Dellwo spotted a White-faced Ibis among a flock of Glossy Ibis—a potential first-ever county record for this species in Philadelphia! While they look quite similar, the White-faced Ibis in breeding plumage shows some telltale differences: a white outline framing a reddish face, bright red eyes, a grayish bill, and vivid red legs. (Photo credit to Martin Dellwo)
Fun fact—Marty’s actually the one who introduced me to birding about ten years ago. We were already friends, and one morning he finally convinced me to tag along at 5 a.m. Let’s just say… that early start didn’t become a habit (I was definitely not a morning person back then!).
The social season is in full swing and off to an incredible start! I’ve been photographing a whirlwind of events and reconnecting with so many familiar faces—it’s been nonstop. We’re fully booked through the end of June, so if you’re hoping to schedule something, July and August are wide open!
That said, I definitely need to carve out some time to recharge and dive into a few personal hobbies—balance is key, right? In the meantime, stay tuned! I’ll be sharing fresh event coverage right here on PhillyChitChat throughout the week. Thanks!!
On Saturday, May 4, 2025 guests stepped into spring with style at Andalusia’s annual Garden Party, a festive celebration that paired the elegance of a historic estate with the excitement of the Kentucky Derby.
Attendees sipped cocktails, enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres, and strolled through gardens in full bloom before gathering to watch the Kentucky Derby’s annual “The Run for the Roses.”
Sarah Claytor, Laura Thaylor, Brannon Claytor, David Bayer and John Vick, Executive Director of Andulasia.
Set against the stunning backdrop of this National Historic Landmark, the event supported Andalusia’s mission to preserve, interpret, and make accessible its remarkable gardens and historic buildings to the public.
Nichola Kinch and Megan Biddle
Rev Manuel and Lisa Biagas
Andalusia is part of Philadelphia is America’s Garden Capital: With more than 30 public gardens, arboreta, and historic landscapes all located within 30 miles, the Greater Philadelphia region has more gardens in close proximity than anywhere else on the continent!
John Vick, Executive Director, Adrianna de Svastich, Development & Membership Manager:, Adam Yarsinky, Marketing Manager and Janna Winans, Business Manager:
The Kentucky Derby, often dubbed “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” is a thrilling spectacle that captures the imagination of fans around the world.
From the moment the bugle sounds and the thoroughbreds thunder out of the gate, the adrenaline surged through the crowd at Andulasia as if they were in the Louisville stands.
After the horse race, we continued to walk the grounds, tour the house and enjoy the day. Something you can do as well. – – Andalusia is now open for the 2025 season through November 14. We are open Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, excluding holidays. We are also open on eight Saturdays throughout the year: April 5, April 19, May 17, May 31, June 14, Sept. 13, Oct. 25, and Nov. 1. INFO
The Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation launch of their Phambassadors program. This initiative seeks to enlist more than 10,000 enthusiastic advocates for Philadelphia over the next two years, building a vibrant community whose civic pride and impact will help define how the city is perceived and experienced in 2026 and into the future.
I was asked to be one of the super Pham’s to help get the initial word out to folks like me, and you who are huge fans of Philadelphia.
The event kicked off with a pep rally worthy of Philadelphia, with mascots, a drum line,
Swoop, Fang and legendary radio personality Patty Jackson
Philadelphia dignitaries and most importantly PHILADELPHIANS!!
Max Weisman, Comm Director for Isaiah Thomas and Brenda Exon, The Philly Flag Lady. founder of the nonprofit Partners for Civic Pride. She is known for promoting the history and display of Philadelphia’s city flag and fostering civic pride. Exon also wears costumes inspired by the flag’s design to educate children about its significance.
Invested Phambassadors who progress through the program will be invited to participate in Pham Camp, an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience designed to deepen participants’ love for Philly and equip them with the knowledge and inspiration to share it with the world.
Nicole Cashman and Cashman & Associates was on hand to organize the event, and corral the parade participants as they entered Love Park for the rally.
Councilman Mark Squilla, City Rep Jazelle Jones with Ben Fileccia (c) Senior Vice President | Strategy and Engagement at the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association
With a nostalgic nod to summer camp, Pham Camp brings people together through discovery, celebration, and hands-on learning. Phambassadors will gain insider access, discover hidden gems, and tap into the vibrant energy that sets Philadelphia apart, leaving them inspired, informed, and ready to represent the city. There’s also a Pham Clubhouse, located at 15th and JFK at that visitor center.
Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation
“Philadelphia has an X Factor—a grit, passion, and an undeniable energy that only those who have experienced it can understand. But too often, the outside world sees an incomplete version of our city’s story. The Phambassador program is here to change that,” said Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO of Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. “This initiative will create a powerful platform that unites Philadelphia’s most passionate advocates to amplify the city’s strengths and redefine its global reputation.”
The Phambassador program is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing participants to engage at different levels based on their interest and availability.
“As we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, we have an incredible opportunity to tap into the people who know Philadelphia best — our residents — to amplify and celebrate everything that makes our city so special,” said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “The Phambassador program is a powerful extension of Visit Philadelphia’s Civic Pride work, which treats the city itself as our sixth team — one we root for through good times and bad. We’re unlocking the pride that already lives here, giving residents more ways to share their stories, represent their neighborhoods and show off their favorite small businesses. There’s nothing like Philadelphia pride, and we’re thrilled to team up with the Visitor Center to bring this to life.”
Phambassador Michelle Freeman, Witty Gritty and Ronnie Polaneczky, the Phambassadors Organizational Recruitment Outreach Strategist,
Whether by supporting civic events and promoting good news online, volunteering to welcome visitors at key events, or helping uncover Philadelphia’s hidden gems, there is a place for everyone in this citywide movement.
Sheila Hess a natural selection for a Phambassador. Does anyone love this City more than she. She’s also the coordinator for us super Pham’s.
Don’t forget to stop by the Selfie Station at 16th and JFK, as Kathryn, Nicole and Matt Ray, Chatterblast did yesterday.
COME JOIN ME: If you’re interested in becoming a part of this exciting movement, head to www.phambassador.com/sign-the-pledge to sign up and receive updates on upcoming events, exclusive experiences, and ways to get involved.
As a Phambassador, you’ll join a dynamic community of people who care deeply about Philadelphia—its culture, neighborhoods, and future. You’ll have the chance to connect with others, share your voice, and help showcase what makes Philly such a vibrant and welcoming city.
To learn more or to officially become a Phambassador, visit www.phambassador.com. Follow @phl.phambassadors on social media and use the hashtags #JoinThePham and #Phambassadors to stay in the loop. Look out for Phambassadors popping up at beloved Philly events all through May, including First Friday in Old City and the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run Expo, with more appearances to be announced.
Philadelphia Author Padraic Maroney Dives Into Death’s Design in His Explosive New Book on the Final Destination Films – Escaping Death: The Unauthorized Story Behind the Final Destination Movies. An unflinching look behind the scenes of one of horror’s most iconic and twisted franchises—exploring the accidental genius, backstage conflicts, and eerie real-life events that paralleled the deadly fate sequences that made Final Destination a cult phenomenon.
Last week Maroney held a book launch party to celebrate the official release of his latest book: Escaping Death: The Unauthorized Story Behind the Final Destination Movies, at one of the best named eateries in Philly, as well as one of the best vegan places according to my vegan hubby Mike Toub>> Monster Vegan.
Lizzy F. Anthony Feola, Brian Finnerty, Padraic Maroney and Rayna Barnard
Friends and family filled the room to capacity to celebrate Maroney’s 2nd book. It took Maroney three years of research and interviews in order to complete the Final Destination book. “My aim is to celebrate the franchise, but also let people know what it was like to be on set through the stories from the people who were there. While the chances of these situations arising in real life are slim, it’s never zero. Many of the memorable moments from the franchise are inspired by true events,” said Maroney.
Meghan Rasmussen, John Masino III, Lynn Masino, Mallory Wolff and Judy Wolff
This unauthorized exposé pulls back the curtain on how a modest X-Files spec script snowballed into a box office juggernaut and sparked a cultural obsession with fate, death, and Rube Goldberg-style doom. Through interviews, leaked memos, and untold stories from the set, this book/documentary (depending on your vision) uncovers:
The origins of the original idea—and how it almost never got made
The battles with studios over gore vs. suspense
Behind-the-scenes near-death experiences that spooked the cast and crew
The evolution of practical effects into CGI nightmares
Canceled scripts, spin-offs, and the franchise’s odd connections to real-world tragedies
Final Destination producer Craig Perry popped in for a visit during the launch party.
Fan theories, Easter eggs, and the creeping idea that Death really does have a design. And did someone say Easter eggs, Maroney told those in attendance that the front and back cover of the book was full of Easter eggs!!
Colleen Baillie, Mark Anderson, Ruth Wright and Anthony FlaminiHey that’s me!! Nicole Michalik, aka Nik the Web Chick you can listen to her everyday on WXTU, author Padraic Maroney and Dr. Jennifer Caudle, DO, FACOFP, is a board-certified osteopathic family medicine physician who appears on social media and television to talk about health (Photo taken by Mike Toub)
Padraic Maroney is an entertainment writer with nearly three decades of experience and the author of It All Began With A Scream, a behind-the-scenes deep dive into the Scream movie franchise. When he’s not immersed in horror films or writing about them, he’s either attempting to master the drums or hitting the pavement in pursuit of race medals. He proudly completed the New York City Marathon in 2021—an experience he swears was more terrifying than any horror film he’s ever watched. Pick up his latest book Escaping Death: The Unauthorized Story Behind the Final Destination Movies
It’s back, Philadelphia’s longest-running and most beloved dining event is back and marking a major anniversary! Action Wellness presents the 35th Annual Dining Out for Life® on Thursday, April 24, 2025, featuring over 40 participating restaurants. I remember going to the first one, where only a handful of restaurants participated, but the following year it was a Citywide celebration, with a lot of support.
Philadelphia’s longest-running and most beloved dining event is back and marking a major anniversary!
Action Wellness presents the 35th Annual Dining Out for Life® on Thursday, April 24, 2025, featuring over 40 participating restaurants.
For 2025, this year’s restaurant line-up reads like a who’s who of the region’s most award-winning restaurants, with notable names such as Barclay Prime, Bistro Romano, Buddakan, Butcher and Singer, DaVinci & Yu, El Vez, Frankford Hall, Gilda, Giorgio on Pine,Good Dog Bar, LMNO, The Love, Mamajuana Cafe, Morimoto, P’unk Burger, P.J. Clarke’s, Parc, Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti, Sophie’s BBQ, Stina, Talula’s Garden, Taqueria Amor, The Continental Midtown, The Dandelion, Villa Di Roma, Wilder and many more. Hours vary by restaurant. Reservations are encouraged in advance.
“My favorite part of the event is the community aspect and simplicity of it,” said Action Wellness Development Coordinator Kevin Vuernick. “I have made it a point to dine out during this event for as long as I can remember. Inevitably you always see a longtime friend or acquaintance who is also dining out to support the cause. Going out to eat is something so many of us do regularly without thinking about it. The hardest part for me is deciding where to eat! The decision about whether to go to an old familiar haunt or go to one of the wonderful new places or somewhere I have yet to try is always the most difficult. But each year the one thing I know is it is always so rewarding.”
Funds raised from Dining Out For Life (DOFL) Philadelphia go to Action Wellness to support more than 2,000 clients and their families through the provision of life-sustaining services. HIV and its impact is felt especially by those in low-income and historically marginalized communities. According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health there are 18,000 people living with HIV in Philadelphia.
For a full list of restaurants or to make an advance donation, visit diningoutforlife dot com/Philadelphia. Watch for updates by following on social media at @DineOut4LifePHL and share your meal using #DOFL2025 #DineOutEndHIV.
The inaugural Philadelphia Montessori Charter School (PMCS ) “Montessori Moves” was held on March 8th at Vie. Over $100,000 was raised to support the Philadelphia Montessori Charter School. Think Philly dancing with the stars-style event where 8 philanthropic/business leaders showed off their best moves!
Amanda Wilson (Ex Dir of Montessori Charter School of Philadelphia) and Carmelina Berardi (winner raising most money raise $24,000 )
PMCS excels at providing children in Kindergarten through 4th grade with a Montessori education in an environment that nurtures the whole child, celebrates inclusion, embraces innovation, and encourages collaboration with families. Carmelina Berardi won top fundraiser and Stefanie McCarthy and Gretchen Ralston tied for best dance!
Laura and Justin Stefanick
Nick and Kristen Pantaleo
Tali Shani Ben-david makes her moves
Natelie Jackson and Stephanie Williams
Laurie Trongone, Camille Doherty, Andrea Ronca and Amy Ritter
Dominique Yannuzzi, Anna Iuliano, Liliana Dicicco and Carmelina Berardi
Dana Fiumara,, Jason Manus and Jill Longstreth
Ryan and Kate Banks
Jalen Millevoix and Avi Ben David
Julie Lynn and Jennifer Sherlock
Jen chose bachata as I’ve always wanted to learn this sensual style dance. “Thanks to @stormballroomdancecentre for everything they showed me including a sense of community.” She raised over $4,000 for the kids.
Serena Saunders, Ahyana King and Michelle Hamilton
Carmelina Berardi: “Wow, what a magical night! Thank you so much to everyone who supported me by donating money and attending the event! With your help, I was able to raise $24,000 for @pmcs2227 and learn some new moves too! Thank you to my instructor @eric_groysman@vibe_dancesport and to @lynsie.feinberg for putting together such an amazing event! Special thank you to the best cheering squad ever, my @shopskirt girls and my friends and family who are always there to support me, Grazie di cuore 💗”
