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 💗”
Jen Su is a media personality, known for her work in radio and television, as well as her singing career. She has covered red carpets worldwide including the Cannes Film Festival, the Grammy’s as well as NY Fashion Week and can be found at many of the elevated events here in Philly. Last week she hosted a fashion show at Neiman Marcus, featuring their hottest looks as well as some of Philly’s favorites from the Fashion Incubator, who is hosting FashCon Philly Friday at Moore college.
Golda Collings, GM Neima Marcus, Jen Su and Kris Flynn, Philly Mag
Jen, dressed in an off-the-shoulder violet silk gown with ostrich feather sleeve by Christian Cowan, talked about her life journey as a TV news anchor and fashion correspondent. “Sometimes you might see my Instagram and think that my life on the red carpet is so glamorous,” said the Philly native on stage. “There’s actually so much stress behind the scenes, from all the credential and travel logistics, to getting the interviews, to filing the stories as quickly and accurately as possible, so I sometimes forget to savor the moment.”
Melissa Leonard and Gregory Jerome
Karen Cox and Donna Coghlan
Fashion designer Nancy Volpe Beringer and Deborah Van Cleve
Jen Su does much more than red carpet events, she’s a philanthropist as well. “I’ll also be involved in the upcoming CHOP: The Runway on May 19th – bringing together fashion and philanthropy.” “But I feel eternally grateful,” added Jen . “After my son was airlifted to CHOP (Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia) when we lived overseas in 2017, he endured 3 years of chemo and treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Today he is cancer-free and CHOP saved his life. I’m inspired by the resilience of these young kids.”
Paul Rimar, Conrad Booker and
Philly designers included Nancy Volpe Beringer of Project Runway and Philadelphia Fashion Week; Elmira Vandenberg , Designer in Residence of the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator (PFI); Priscilla Carvalho of Priscilla Couture; Jeanette Limas, of PFI, Philly Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week; and Conrad Booker, a PFI alum and Board Director who has been published in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and the New Yorker.
Jee Mint Cao, Gina Lizzo, Main Line Today and Jaimi Blackburn, Fearless Restaurants
The who’s who of the Philly fashion scene was in attendance sipping on champagne and gourmet lite bites, with DJ Eddie Tully on the decks. This Saturday Tully is spinning at his quarterly Matinée Dance Party at VINYL
Philly Fashion Week’s Kevin Parker; Philly Fashion Incubator’s Elissa Bloom; Fox 29’s Drew Anderson; GM of The Bellevue Carissa Dalske; wedding dress fashion maven Deborah Van Cleve; NYFW fav Ramillionaire (above)
Jet Set with Jen Su, was a joyful fusion of high-fashion whimsy and effortless travel glam. Featuring 12 striking looks, the collection showcases iconic names—Balmain, Oscar de la Renta, Dolce & Gabbana—interwoven with cool-girl labels like IRO and La Pointe. Think: cobalt blue power suits, butter yellow flowing dresses, sequined separates, and flirty florals with peplum flair. Whether you’re boarding a yacht or brunching in the city, there was something for everyone.
Jane Levin, Elissa Bloom, Priscilla Carvalho, Janet Workman, Tracey Evelyn Reed, Diadem Abayoda, Caitlyn Ellerbeck and Sheilisa McNeal of the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator
What are you doing Friday? Jen Su will also be one of the featured speakers and moderators joining the “godmother of New York Fashion Week” Fern Mallis, celebrity designer Milan Harris (Milano Di Rouge), and other top fashion personalities at this Friday’s (April 11) highly anticipated Philadelphia Fashion Incubator’s FashCon Philly, a fashion industry conference at Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia. Tickets and info on fashconphilly.com.
PS Last week I chitchatted about columns which aren’t picked up by my outlets. I over submit to each outlet, but until the magazine gets published I don’t know which ones they don’t run. Going forward I will publish them here, but they’ll be a few months old as I want you to know about these events, often yearly events you should attend.
The TASTIES AWARDS celebrated the year’s best achievements in artisan Food, Drink, and outstanding Restaurants and Chefs,
Sue Daugherty, Executive director of MANNA. Proceeds from the evening went to MANNA with Ben Fileccia, Senior Vice President | Strategy and Engagement · Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association
Hosted by the Delicious City podcast, Dave Wez, Chef Eli Kulp and Marisa Magnatta, the Tasties is Philadelphia’s first-ever chef and restaurant awards show, celebrating the innovation, dedication, and excellence that make our food scene one of the best in the country.
Fred Singer and Ellen Yin
Guests gathered Sunday, February 2nd, 2025 at Live Casino to celebrate all the good in the Philadelphia culinary scene. Notable chefs, owners, experts in the food scene walked the red carpet, before enjoying a sit down dinner of Philly fare, entertainment and the awards show.
Ange Branca, Kampar Philly (*Which was closed due to a fire shortly after this event) and Thanuja Hamilton, MD a traveling foodie. Rob Wilson and Priscilla Jimenez, Kline & SpectorRuth Uselton and Sarah DillonJason Cichonski, Consulting, Catering, plus @tulippastawine@littlenoodlepastaco. @atticorooftop , @messinasocialclub and Eddie Konrad, Chef / partner @messinasocialclub Season 16 @bravotopchefDan, Sadie, Diane and Kristina Burke
The Burke family presented the Jim Burke Award For Culinary Excellence for Chef of the Year: Dionicio Jiménez. Chef Burke was a promising chef on the scene when I first came onto the scene in 2007. He and his wife Kristina Burke, owned a popular Bella Vista restaurant named James from 2007 to 2011. I remember at the opening they sent everyone home with a cataloupe, which represented a dish they served. It was heavy, but delicious. Sadly In 2022 he died at age 49, following his two-year battle with lung cancer.
Christina Kallas-Saritsoglou, Philly Thrift for AIDS and Bobby Saritsoglou, Chef/Owner of the very popular Stina in South Philly.
Roland Bui and Sandy Sanchez-Bui
Thanks to Mike Toub, the Hubby for shooting these photos, as I was still wearing a sling, and in much pain. I can never thank him enough for all that he did for me, us. xoxo
And The Winners Are:
WINNERS OF THE TASTIES
Hero of Hospitality Award: Mayor Cherelle Parker
Best Emotional Support Sandwich: Bronco Cutlet at Farina Di Vita
Cocktails: Friday Saturday Sunday
Hospitality: Vernick Food & Drink
Best Late-Night Joint: Messina Social Club
Next Level Neighborhood Spot: Royal Tavern
Standout Baker or Pastry Chef: Chris Dipiazza
Best Pop-Up or Supper Club: Habibi
Breakout Chef: Melissa McGrath
Dish Wizard: Elvin of Provenance
Icon: Zahav
Most Crave-Worthy Pizza Joint: Char
Best New Restaurant: Illata
Jim Burke Award For Culinary Excellence for Chef of the Year: Dionicio Jiménez
Restaurant of the Year: Kayala
What a great event, equally terrific podcast, hosted by three of the kindest Philadelphians. Go Phils!!
Parkway & Kelly Drive Road Closures 2025 : It’s that time of year along the Parkway and Kelly Drive when Charity Runs, Parades, activations and Regatta’s take place and we need to be prepared to take alternative traffic routes to get around. Here’s the list so far, but I will update it as we go forward.
What we have so far for interruptions along the Parkway. The City issues press releases for specific road closures as the date approaches. The Kelly Drive Regatta List, below this one, is more complete.
Saturday, April 5 – Hot Chocolate 15K
Sunday, April 6 – Greek Independence Day Parade
Sunday, April 20 – Jewish Martyrs Memorial Service – 16th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway,
Check Out the Office of Special Events for a listing of Street Closures through out the City. As we approached each date, we will have a better understanding of which streets are affected.
March 30: 3rd Flick-Horvat Regatta. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-5:30 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.
April 5: College Match Race. Host: Penn H&L M/Drexel M/Temple W (w/ Harvard/Cornell/UD). Time: x:00-x:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.
April 6: 4th Flick-Horvat Regatta. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-5:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.
April 13: 5th Flick-Horvat Regatta. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-5:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.
April 19: Kerr Cup; Blackwell Cup; Wood Hammond Trophy. Host: Drexel + Penn H&L M. Time: x:00 am – x pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.
April 26: College/Club Match Race. Host: St. Joe’s U M&W ; UBC (Bergen/Kelly Cups) + Kelly Cup. Final Time: 10:30 am – 12:30 pm
May 3: College Match Race: Host: St. Joseph’s University Women (w/ Lehigh). Time: xx am-xx pm
May 3-4: Philadelphia City Championships. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-5:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM & OVERNIGHT.
May 15-17:Schuylkill Navy’s Stotesbury Cup Regatta. Host: Schuylkill Navy. Time: Fri& Sat, 8:00-6:00 pm. (Clear Launching Area and Race Course above Girard by 7:15 am). KELLY DRIVE CLOSED THURSDAY AT 10 AM AND OVERNIGHT THROUGH SATURDAY.
June 7: Independence Dragon Bat Regatta. Host: Phila Dragon Boat Association. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.
June 14: Schuylkill Navy Regatta. Host: Schuylkill Navy. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.
Jul 4-6: Schuylkill Navy’s Independence Day Regatta. Host: Schuylkill Navy. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM AND OVERNIGHT.
Jul 19:Schuylkill Navy’s Philadelphia Youth Regatta. Host: Schuylkill Navy. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.
Aug 2: Quaker City Regatta. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm.
Oct 11: Navy Day Regatta. Host: St. Joseph’s University. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.
Oct 24-26: Head of the Schuylkill Regatta. Host: Head of the Schuylkill. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM AND OVERNIGHT.
Nov 2:Hidden River Chase. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm.
Nov 27:Schuylkill Navy Run. Host: Schuylkill Navy of Philadelphia. Time: 9:00-11:00 am.
Subscribe to the Schuylkill River Events Google Calendar here.
Happy Thursday. It’s been a busy week. Lots of fun sightings, and happenings. Personally I’ve started PT for my broken shoulder, it’s nice to be out of the sling, but now comes the hard part. It hurts. In the sling not so bad. Anyway thankfully there are a lot of chitchatters out there who have sent me tips and news for me to share here and on the socials. Thank you!!
Will Smith was in Philly this week to promote his new album ‘Based on a True Story’ which drops tomorrow, March 28. On Tuesday night he held a listening party at the Hard Rock Cafe with a few lucky Philadelphian’s in the audience. Then on Wednesday morning they renamed 2000 N 59th Street in his honor. Last night he “Rang The Bell” at the Sixers game. Unfortunately it didn’t bring the Sixers any luck, as they lost to the Washington Warriors by 5 points.
From Mayor Cherelle Parker’s IG Account:
Will Smith’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring. From his roots of being born and raised in West Philadelphia, to his rise as a global superstar, he’s shown us all what it means to dream big and work hard.
We are incredibly proud to call @willsmith one of our own. His achievements are a reflection of the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Philadelphia’s people.
As we rename 2000 N. 59th Street in Will’s honor today, let’s celebrate everything he represents—creativity, kindness, and the power of community.
Susan Noles, NBC10 morning news anchor Keith Jones and his wife, Holly Joneswho recently celebrated the 6 month birthday of their baby boy Keith Jones III, at the Heart Ball Saturday.
I ran into Susan Noles at the AHA Heart Ball on Saturday night. The bold Aston native—wedding officiant, hairdresser, and now QVC star—who gained fame on The Golden Bachelor in 2023, is returning to TV next month on Hulu’s Got To Get Out. She shared that she recently took a fall and had surgery on her broken wrist, but that didn’t slow her down. She continued her promotional tour, attending the Heart Ball on Saturday and appearing on QVC on Sunday to sell her meatballs. This past week she’s done interviews with the Philly Voice and the Inquirer on her upcoming reality show. Noles will be joining a diverse lineup of reality stars, including Spencer Pratt (The Hills), Cynthia Bailey (The Real Housewives of Atlanta), and Omarosa, along with “reality rookies” — everyday people such as firefighters and mathematicians. She’ll also be competing alongside fellow Bachelor franchise alumni Demi Burnett and Clare Crawley. Tune in to Hulu April 11 to see “20 strangers locked in a house. They will receive clues to help them escape and steal a prize climbing to a million dollars.”
Congratulations to Jamie Byrd and Cherri Gregg, afternoon Host/Anchor for WHYY, on their recent wedding. Cherri just announced on her IG: We kept it simple—just the two of us and immediate family at City Hall. No fuss, just love.
Last night I caught the latest Broadway show to come through Philadelphia &Juliet!! The hit musical that reimagines Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet with a modern twist and a pop music soundtrack. Not since I first saw Wicked on Broadway have I enjoyed a new musical so much. It was original, yet a retelling of the classic William Shakespere love story. It’s at the Academy of Music through April 8th. INFO & Tickets.
On March 5, the Philadelphia Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier hosted a cocktail party to celebrate their remarkable new members and induct them into the Philadelphia Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier.
Alexandra Chermiavsky, Betty Alberts and Mollie Battenyhouse
The Philly chapter is part of an international network of accomplished women in the food, fine beverage, and hospitality, industries, with members in 40 chapters from London to Hawaii, NYC to Mexico.
Tina Breslow, new member, Dame Lynn Buono , Retired Owner, Founder and Chief Culinary Officer of Feast Your Eyes Catering for 43 years. Consultant and culinary teacher., President and Dame Jacqueline Peccina Kelly Chapter’s co-president (Chef Jacqueline Peccina-Kelly, AKA Chef Jacquie, is the founder of StrEATs of Philly Food Tours, a Michelin-recognized culinary tourism expert. She has helped locals and travelers explore Philadelphia’s wonderfully diverse and culturally rich food scene since 2010.) with Moi. Thanks Mike Toub for taking the photos.
It is very meaningful for the gathering to be at Walnut Hill College, as the school is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Many of their members came through the Restaurant School. (The old name.)
Fran Costigan, Membership Chair with Tiffany DuBois-Morales, a new memberJanet Chrzan, Scholarship Chair/BOD and scholarship recipient Maria Williams
An important part of The Dames mission and their goal is to increase the number of young inspiring chefs, and assisting them with scholarships!
One of our initiatives for scholarship fundraising is the Dining for Dames program that gets off the ground on Tuesday, March 25th. All you have to do is have dinner at the Rittenhouse Grill, ideally with a group of friends. The restaurant will then donate 10% of your bill to our scholarship efforts! Just remember to tell them that you are here for the DAMES 2025.
Interested in joining ?
Candidates for membership are professional women who have demonstrated leadership and achievement in professional and philanthropic capacities and who have been actively engaged full-time for a minimum of five (5) years in careers in the food, beverage, and hospitality industries.
Dame Fran Costigan, Membership Chair and Dame Susanna Foo
The Philadelphia Dames Chapter is comprised of women that are chefs, restaurant owners, caterers, dietitians, sommeliers, product developers, culinary instructors, food service managers, small business owners, farmers, lawyers, cookbook authors, winemakers, brewers, media spokespeople, food stylists, journalists and more! We all reside in Southeastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, or Northern Delaware. Membership Applicant
It was another successful Philly home and garden show this weekend in Oaks PA. It’s basically Philadelphia but 45 minutes away. Folks lined up to see celebrities like Christopher Knight, Brady Bunch who has a line of home furnishings Christopher Knight Home and Craig Conover a fan favorite on Bravo’s hit reality series, Southern Charm, who talked about their wares and then meant their fans. How as to check out so many great home and garden ideas on a very chilly weekend in February.
innovative products and fantastic deals in remodeling, home improvement, décor, gardening and outdoor spaces with hundreds of experts all under one roof.
DIY workshops at the Make It Take It presented by @little.tall.rulers on Saturday and Sunday of the Show
Sleep with Saquon Barkley with this cool balloon installation.
Michael Knight with a fan
Commiserating with Craig Conover (Bravo’s Southern Charm, Sewing Down South Co-Founder) about my broken shoulder
It was really a great exhibition this year, always great but this year just very informative. Don’t sleep on it next year make sure you go and I’ll say hello!! You still have a few hours left today to go. Sunday, February 23, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
The Philly Home + Garden Show returns to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA for three days only from Friday, February 21st to Sunday, February 23rd. Attendees will find new inspiration, innovative products, helpful tips, and amazing deals in remodeling, home improvements, décor, and outdoor spaces. The event offers opportunities to connect with hundreds of home and garden experts.
Over 300 exhibitors will present a wide variety of products, ranging from home decor and furniture to garden and landscaping items, as well as kitchen and bath essentials. Plus, a vibrant marketplace will allow you to take home something special! If you love turning to HGTV, DIY, and TLC home improvement shows for the latest tips and tricks, you can meet with gardening to home design experts here in person!
Join us to welcome Craig ConoverSouthern Charm on Bravo and co-founder of Sewing Down South, a rapidly growing Southern lifestyle brand. Craig will be presenting on Friday, February 21st at 6:00 PM and Saturday, February 22nd at 1:00 PM.
Another celebrity attending the show is Christopher Knight, former child actor known for his role as “Peter Brady” on the iconic TV show The Brady Bunch. Today, Christopher is the owner of Christopher Knight Home, a popular online home furnishings brand. He will take the Philly Home + Garden Show stage on Saturday, February 22nd at 11:00 AM and on Sunday, February 23rd at 1:00 PM.
The Barking Lot + Doggy Fashion Show IS RETURNING
Make It, Take it Workshops presented by Little.Tall.Rulers: At the Make It, Take It Workshops, you can craft something special for your home for FREE! Work with local designers, artists, and crafters to explore the latest DIY trends. Ask a Garden Expert: For advice about getting started in the garden, visit the “Ask a Garden Expert” booth in the Garden Hall provided by the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners!
AND SO MUCH MORE!! I’ll be there Saturday taking photos…
Admission is $12 for adults at the event, $10 for adults online until February 20th, and free for children under the age 12. Parking is free at the Philly Home + Garden Show. For all show information and tickets, visit PhillyHomeandGarden.com.
Exclusive Membership Cigar Bar 25 E Allen St 2nd Floor
Hello Philly Chit Chatters. Party season is always slow in January, February which is good considering I have this shoulder injury. You may know that I am the exclusive photographer for Philadelphia Style magazine, Philly magazine, Main Line Today magazine. Each month I send a certain amount of parties to each of the outlets, I don’t know which parties they pick up until the magazine is published. I try and make sure the party is also published in either Metro Philly, Phila Tribune or CBS3 as well, in case it’s not picked up by a magazine. The opening of the Silver Back Cigar Lounge was not picked up by any of the magazines because it fell a little bit past their publishing deadline. It did run on CBS Philly and in Phila Tribune.
Lisa and Aaron McKie is an American basketball coach and former professional basketball player who played 14 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He is currently the special advisor for athletics at his alma mater Temple University.
Over the next couple weeks I am going to revisit some of the parties I covered in 2024, some which made the magazines and a few that didn’t make the magazines but were published elsewhere.
Keith Smith and Robin Carter
Known for its carefully curated selection of premium cigars, BYOB-friendly policy, and thoughtfully designed ambiance make us a destination for those seeking relaxation and connection.
I am slowly recovering but doing it very thoughtfully and intentionally so I don’t injure myself. It’s my right arm and I’m right handed. Last week I photographed two events with the help of my husband Mike Toub and it was so good to be out and about. Philly Chit chat is open for business, I will be shooting events as well as long time Philly Chit chat photographers Andre & Talya!! If you’d like to hire us for your event write us HUGHE@PHILLYCHITCHAT.COM
Happy Holidays doesn’t officially start until the Philadelphia Holiday Tree is lit, and last night it was. WOW the tree is gorgeous. I’m a simple guy, and I love a tree lit in white lights and a beautiful blue star to top it off. (I did love the other tree as well, but it’s like we’re entering a new phase this year.) The base is brand new, simple with the Philly skyline, and words of encouragement like LOVE. It was bitterly cold last night, but that didn’t stop the crowds from coming out to enjoy the festivities with entertainment by Keyshia and Liamani as well as ride the Ferris wheel. Great job Michael DelBene, President & CEO Welcome America and team. (Look for more photos at Metro Philly and CBSPhilly today)
In the past decade, the west and north aprons have come alive with so much activity especially during the holidays. And don’t forget Christmas Village extends to the Center of City Hall, and across the street at Love Park.
Speaking of tree lighting, Old City had theirs on Wednesday and as always the neighborhood really came out to support their efforts. And Old City put on a show. (Old City – Society Hill Films)
Held at Betsy Ross’ house, this year the tree is adorn with red balls, as well as accented with two giant ones at the base.
In November there was a special night opening party of Winter in Franklin Square with a new song which is played along with the dancing fountain during the holiday light show. by The Philly Specials (@jason.kelce, @jordanmailata, & @lanejohnson65@aphillyspecialchristmas. ) Connor Barwin and Charlie Hall were in attendance to hear Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by The Philly Specials along with the crowd for the first time.
(Photos Cari Feiler Bender)
Amy Needle, the president and CEO of Historic Philadelphia greeting the crowd. Here’s what’s coming up you might be interested in. Jingle and Mingle with Santa (December 7, 12, 14, and 21, 5-7 pm) and bring pets for Santa Paws (December 14, 5-7 pm). On Thursday, December 12, Santa (aka City Councilmember Mark Squilla) will make a special appearance from 5-6 pm. Keep an eye out for Santa near the Franklin Square Fountain, double-checking his naughty and nice lists and posing for elfie-selfies. FREE.
Ben Armstrong, Vice President of Communications & Marketing, PECO.
Winter in Franklin Square, featuring the Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO, celebrates traditions old and new at this beloved public space. Through February 23, 2025, Winter in Franklin Square. The centerpiece of the festivities is the nightly free Electrical Spectacle Light Show. Guests can cozy up around fire pits with hot beverages, including spiked options for adults, and enjoy Street Curling and Chilly Philly Mini Golf, adorned with lights and seasonal decorations. Visitors can indulge in hand-crafted cocktails and seasonal treats in the pop-up winter bar, Ben On the Rocks. The Square will also host various family holiday events, such as Jingle and Mingle with Santa, Santa Paws, and Brunch with Santa.
Had dinner with PR Santa Kory Aversa at his new client’s the other night – MAMAJUANA CAFE PHILLY, it was delicious, and spicy which hit the spot on a chilly night. I especially loved the Rice Pudding Pops, with this cute little tree, which I learned wasn’t a souvenir but did make a good Instagramable photo.
Thanks to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, in partnership with the nonprofit Kelly’s Kidz (Bob Kelly, Fox29 seen above giving his wish list to Santa), donated hundreds of toys to St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, which will be distributed to patients and families of patients being treated at the hospital this holiday season. Check out photos at Metro Philly and CBSPhilly.
Congratulations to Ray Smerigliowhose longtime partner, fiance, Miguel Martinez-Valle who popped the question to HIM on Wednesday night in front of friends. Traditionally Miguel’s emcees the lighting of the East Passyunk Tree, and they host a party for friends and family, as they did this year, with a surprise proposal to Ray. Earlier this year Ray popped the question to Miguel. NBC10 has the story. Hi to
Shout out to Mark Brown (and his wife), longtime ChitChat reader, and IG follower (msaxbrown). I promised him I would write more on the blog in 2025….Thanks everyone for bearing with me this year. Coverage here was a bit spotty. Mark entertained us at Miguel & Ray’s party on Wednesday night.
So much more happening in the City, follow along on my Instagram account where I update you a few times a day.
