Category: Around Town With HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Taylor Swift & Chit Chat

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.

Marisa Magnatta IG Post. Also support Marisa in her quest: I’m excited to be nominated for the American Heart Association Go Red for Women movement’s Woman of Impact campaign.

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!!

Socially Yours, HughE

SUBSCRIBE TO PHILLYCHITCHAT BLOG HERE

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A Beautiful Day: Andalusia Derby Day

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

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Are You A Super Pham?

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.

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Philadelphia Author Padraic Maroney

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 Flamini
Hey 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

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Philly Dining Out For Life

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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.

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Philly Dancing With The Stars – Montessori Moves

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 💗”

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Neiman Marcus KOP x Jen Su Jet Set

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.

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The Tasties Award 2025

The Inaugural Tasties Culinary Awards

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.

David Wesolowski, Chef Eli Kulp and Marisa Magnatta – Delicious City Podcast

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 & Spector
Ruth Uselton and Sarah Dillon
Jason Cichonski, Consulting, Catering, plus @tulippastawine @littlenoodlepastaco. @atticorooftop , @messinasocialclub and Eddie Konrad, Chef / partner @messinasocialclub
Season 16 @bravotopchef
Dan, 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!!

Socially Yours, HughE

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Parkway & Kelly Drive Road Closures 2025

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.

This Sunday is the Love Run.

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,

Thursday, April 24 – Sunday, April 27 – 2025 Philadelphia Show  

Saturday, April 26 – Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Armenian Heritage Walk   

Thursday, May 1 – The Franklin Institute Gala, 20th street in front of the museum is usually closed from 4pm until 10pm

Friday, May 16 – Sunday, May 18 – Portal to Universal Studios Epic Universe  – Activation on the Art Museum Steps

Saturday, May 24 – Georgian Culture Day  

Saturday, May 3 – MS Walk  

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.

List of major public events.

SCHUYLKILL RIVER SCHEDULE

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.

Save This For Later.

Have a great weekend. See you on Social Media.

Socially Yours, HughE

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Will Smith, Susan Noles, &Juliet

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.  

Photos by Chris Manfield

Susan Noles, NBC10 morning news anchor Keith Jones and his wife, Holly Jones who 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.

Socially Yours, HughE