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.
The PHLCVB Annual Luncheon is a popular networking bringing together the tourism and hospitality community to celebrate the year’s successes and recognize its strong positive impact on the city. The event happens every year on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and has been held at the convention center, the Linc, and the art museum. This year it was held at the Franklin Institute.
Gregg Caren PHLCVB President and Larry Dubinski, President and CEO, The Franklin Institute were our hosts for the event. Mayor Cherelle Parker kicked of the luncheon with a spirited chat about the state of Philly tourism, as well as the future plans underway for Philly’s celebration of America 250th anniversary in 2026, in the auditorium. Followed by speeches by Greg, Larry
and Karen Dougherty Buchholz, PHLCVB Board Chair and Executive Vice President of Administration for Comcast Corporation.
Nearly 1000 hospitality leaders gathered at the annual event held at the Franklin Institute
Angela Val, President & CEO of Visit Philadelphia and Jazelle Jones, City Representative and Director of Special Events
Alba Martinez, Commerce Director of the City of Philadelphia, Crystal Brewe, Ensemble Arts Philly, guest and Ryan Fleur, Ensemble Arts Philly
Photo bombing Job Itzkowitz (l) – Director of Old City District is getting ready for his neighborhoods tree lighting on December 4th, at the Betsy Ross Home in Old City. It’s always a fun time with sugar plum fairies dancing in the street, a visit from Santa and finally the tree lighting about 630pm.
Prema Katari Gupta, Center City District CEO (I had a change to check out the new CCD offices at Chestnut and Broad Street. Beautiful, and the perfect location for them. There’s also a Police substation there as well) and Jasmine Armstrong – Senior Director of Hospitality & Events Visit PhiladelphiaThe Franklin Institute’s giant walk-through heart has been closed as the science museum developed a new, permanent exhibition around it. “Body Odyssey” opens last month with state-of-the-art museum technology showcasing the human body, from gut microbiomes to bionic prosthetics.Gabbi Townsend, Fashion District, Ryan Williams, Fashion District and Farah Farag, Visit Philadelphia
In November The Light The World Giving Machine was installed at the Fashion District. The “giving machines” are popular vending machines that work in reverse, giving you the chance to donate a variety of much-needed items to local and global charities. Donation items range in price from $5 to $500. This year, the donations go to six charities, including Philabundance, Interfaith Philabundance/Zones of Peace, Mount Airy Church of God in Christ, Ministry of Caring, Days for Girls and Mentors International.
The Giving Machines will remain in the Fashion District through Dec. 4 during regular mall hours, which run Monday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, from noon to 6 p.m.
John New, Kate Winters both of CYTO/PHL, Gabrielle Wallace, Try Hungry, and Betsy Barber, Temple UniversityTaylor Lumpkin, En Route, Summer Freeman and Tracy Bulholz all of En RouteMichael Norris, Carpenters’ Hall, Allegra Burnette, Museum of American Revolution and Jonathan Burton. Director of Development, Independence Historic TrustThe Legacy Award Gala is coming up on December 12, honoring Kathryn Ott Lovell,Philadelphia Visitor Center, Andrew Lovell, Temple University and Sudha Suryadevara, Philadelphia Visitor Center
Philadelphia Visitor Center and Visit Philadelphia are celebrating Rocky Week in Philadelphia. RockyFest 2024 celebrates the iconic Rocky film franchise — and Philly’s underdog spirit — with an action-packed week of festivities.
Sharing holiday recipes Michelle Leff, 12th Street Catering, Anthony Lehman, Feast Your Eyes Catering, Nancy Rawson, Monell Chemical Senses Center and Maggie Bond, Live Nation, Brooklyn BowlRoland Bui, Laura Smyth and Daniel Davies all of Visit PhiladelphiaGreat job Lindsay Erickson and Diane DiCicco and the Carmichael Lynch team.
The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) creates positive economic impact across the Philadelphia region, driving job growth and promoting the health and vibrancy of our hospitality industry by marketing the destination, the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and attracting overnight visitors.
City Hall has been a lavender hue this month as November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. An effort to educate the public about pancreatic cancer, raise money for research, and inspire communities affected by the Disease. A core circle friend has been valiantly battling this horrible disease this past year.
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, Council President Kenyatta Johnson (2nd District) – who both paid tribute to former Mayor Jim Kenny who’s Beverage Tax helped contribute tothe City’s Rebuild program, which renovated rec centers), PA State Senator Anthony H. Williams (8th District), PA State Representative Jordan A. Harris (186th District), City Officials, Make the World Better Foundation, (who also supported the project) and community members celebrated the grand reopening of Vare Recreation Center in South Philadelphia with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
This milestone marks the completion of the $21 million Rebuild project, Rebuild’s largest completed project to date, which modernized and revitalized the facilities for the Grays Ferry and Point Breeze communities.
Great news: World-renowned ticket booth service TKTS officially opened its new booth in Philadelphia in partnership with Visit Philadelphia! “We’re the fourth city in the world to house this go-to destination for last-minute, discount tickets to live theatre and arts performances next to New York City, London and Tokyo.”
Located inside the Independence Visitor Center, TKTS Philadelphia offers 30-50% off tickets for live performances within 72 hours to 20 participating performing arts companies in Greater Philadelphia.
A full list of participating arts organizations throughout Philadelphia, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties is available HERE.
Glinda and Elphapha actually outfits worn in the movie and displayed in the Comcast Technology Center – Joseph Gidjunis || Comcast
Speaking of Broadway shows, I’ve seen Wicked 8 times on Broadway, and 3 times at Ensemble Arts at the Academy of Music. It’s my favorite show. SO when I was invited to see a sneak preview of the long awaited movie I flew over to the AMC Cherry Hill to take it all in. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo star as Glinda and Elphaba. These two were destined to play the iconic roles, and slipped into the crystal and ruby shoes seamlessly. The movie runs a little over 2 hrs and 40 minutes, which is not baffling as the Broadway show runs at 2.30 minutes. The time goes quickly, and you don’t even realize time slipping away until the end of the movie when it says PART 1!! WHAT!! OMG I have to wait a year to see Part 2, which if we were watching the stage show would be Act 2. Nonetheless it is still worthwhile seeing Wicked, Part 1. The last scene is incredible, and Cynthia Erivo should get an Oscar for it. Spoiler alert, all the good songs are in Act 1, so you probably can just wait 18 months and catch Act 2 on streaming.
Traffic Alert: Just avoid driving in Center City this weekend. The Philadelphia Marathon is happening and all the streets are closed, partially closed, or as is the case lately, being worked on.
Jaleel White’s memoir, Growing Up Urkel, will be released this week on November 19. Friday, November 15, he stopped by the iconic Geno’s Steaks in South Philly. He prepared a few cheese steaks, handing them out to customers, posed for photos and enjoyed one himself. He had no problem with the hot sauce on a whiz, whit!!
2024 Philadelphia Heart Walk – Saturday, November 2, 2024 Greg Deavens , Executive Director of Independence Blue Cross, and chair for the 2024 Philadelphia Heart Walk passes the Red Sneaker to Dan Fitzpatrick, President of Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware who will be the 2025 chair.
Congratulations to Marcus Espinoza, Fox 29. He hasn’t been here too long and he’s already off to another exciting position. No word on where, but you can still find him on Fox29 until January he said in his good bye post. Popping up on Philly TV during the pandemic, he’ll always be iconic in Philly after interviewing the Mayfair Mayor about the 95 truck, bridge crash in June 2023.
This one hurts, Karen Hua, NBC10, is also leaving for a lofty role I hear. I’m a huge fan of her work. Her reporting was stellar, always entertaining, and compelling for serious stories. Personally we’re friends and I will miss her sage advice, fun parties, bubbly, positive personality and creativity. In a few weeks we will say good bye officially and I will bring you more news and photos from her bittersweet goodbye party.
So many people have asked me why isn’t Jessica Boyington on TV anymore. She’s vague in her comments. I saw a funny, not funny mention on Twitter.
We’ll wait and see. But you can always catch her on IG, she’s very active there.
The social season is so busy. For the next 14 days I will be shooting at least one event a day, but will try and keep up here on the blog. I appreciate you all saying hi, including this couple who I photographed at Philadelphia 250 on Wednesday, which I will write more about this week.
Samara Friedland-Zelko and Ross Beroff
I know I always apologize for not keeping up on the blog, which they mentioned. They follow me on IG too. But I love my blog as well and need to do better. Speaking of SM, I am still on X ie Twitter. It’s hard to leave but my feed is not people I follow and it’s really toxic. I have moved over to Blue Sky, and will probably still post on X, but will not read it. It’s really terrible. Here’s my name on Blue Sky, but I also use Threads.
Last night the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show kicked off their 48th show with a cocktail preview party at the Philadelphia Convention Center. The show features unique, one-of-a-kind works by 195 talented artists from across the United States, and this year they welcomed 24 guest artists from Italy.
Amy Fox, Sasha Suda, Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Philadelphia Art Museum and Italian Artist Gabi Veit
2024 Craft Show
Friday, November 15, 11 AM – 7 PM Saturday, November 16, 10 AM – 6 PM Sunday, November 17, 10 AM – 5 PM
Kristine Christensen, Show Chair and Nancy C. O’Meara, Director and Craft Show Manager
LOCATION Pennsylvania Convention Center, Exhibit Hall F 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Enter at 12th & Arch Streets, NE corner)
Gougenheim scarves and clothing
General Admission
Tickets can be purchased online or during the show at the Convention Center. Prices One Day: $20 Two Days: $25 Children under 12 years old: $5
Zelma Loseke Booth 225Selma Karaca, Beacon NY booth 613Ann Brauer, Shelburne Falls, MAShannon Floyd , J Shannon Floyd and Ian PetrieBabette von Dohnanyi jewelry Booth 316PMA Women’s Craft Committee members: Carol Jones and Laura Rothrock
The money raised at the event is used to purchase works of art and craft for the permanent collections, fund conservation projects and support exhibitions and programs for the museum.
On Friday, October 25, 2024, the Philadelphia Ballet marked a significant milestone with its 60th Anniversary Gala performance and dinner.
Co Chairs of the Gala Sarah Marshall and Lloyd Freeman. A spectacular event, sold out and a success in raising critical funds for the company.
The one-night event celebrated the company’s history, achievements, and future. Chaired by Philadelphia Ballet Trustees Sarah Marshall and Lloyd Freeman, the gala also served as a fundraising opportunity to support the company’s performances and community initiatives.
The evening started with a pre-performance reception at the Academy of Music.
John and Jane Fischer, Bernadette and Russell Casey
Caroline Slota and John Sherman
Brandon Woods and Ashley Mariana
Congratulations to Phila Ballet Principal Dancers: Sterling Baca and Scarlett Suemez who were married a few days later!! Here with always stylish Rita Rome.
Nydia Han and Dennis Reilly
Brandon Woods and Ashley Mariana
Jessica Mathelier and Danielle Bourgeon, whose favorite quote is: “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” ~Colin Powell
Guests enjoyed a spectacular program Angel Corella,The Ruth and A. Morris Williams, Jr. Artistic Director, has created of ballet excerpts that showcases the artists of Philadelphia Ballet, Philadelphia Ballet II, School of Philadelphia Ballet, and Philadelphia Ballet Orchestra led by Beatrice Jona Affron, The Louise and Alan Reed Music Director.
After the performance the promenade took place as guests made their way from the Academy of Music to The Union League for dinner.
Beautiful art work The Heart of The Philadelphia Ballet by Perry Milou was on auction
Philadelphia Ballet Dance5rs Charlotte Erickson, Ashlee Lewis and Gabriel Lukasit
Diane Dalto Woosnam and Richard Woosnam
Beverly Deavens and Gregory E. Deavens President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross
Philadelphia Ballet artistic director Angel Corella and Shelly Power, Executive Director
