Bryna Berman and Elisa ShulickIlene Berman, Steve B., Jill Goldwater, Andy GoldwaterSean Wolf, Holly B.Jacobs and Alex ShtraksJulia & EJ Smith
Zach Berman covers the Philadelphia Eagles for PHLY, where he co-hosts a daily online show and leads the written coverage of the team.
Berman spent four seasons covering the Eagles for The Athletic and seven seasons as the Eagles beat writer for The Philadelphia Inquirer. He wrote the 2018 book, UNDERDOGS: The Philadelphia Eagles’ Emotional Road to Super Bowl Victory.
Boyds is a fourth generation, family-owned luxury retailer. Since 1938, providing clients with luxury fashion and experiences that aim to enhance our modern relevance while keeping traditions alive. They offer a diverse assortment of luxury women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and accessories, from over 250 designers across the world, driving connection to the evolving generations. Shop in their Center City store or stop by their Wayne store. Both have parking. It’s a great event space as well.
Melissa & Josh Strauss, Max & Raven FrankelCorie Moskow, and Maggie CorradoBryna Berman, Robin Robbins, Debbie Schwab, and Susan LipsonSusan Schwartz, and Gail Norry
The Ball on the Square is returning this fall to Rittenhouse Square on September 26th. The Ball on the Square is the Friend’s largest fundraiser of the year and is a truly unique opportunity to enjoy an evening in with friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues in Rittenhouse, all while ensuring its continued care and maintenance of the beautiful square for the years to come.
Returning this year for the first time since 2019, The Soirée on the Square will be returning on September 27, the night after the Ball. The Soirée is an opportunity to enjoy an evening of cocktails, small bites, a band, and a DJ who will provide an exciting environment for dancing and socializing – all in support of the Friends of Rittenhouse Square. Last week supporters and committee members gathered at the Fitler Club to celebrate the upcoming fundraising effort. Tickets start at $250.00
Bruce Bohnri, Laura LaRosa, Board President of Friends of Rittenhouse Square, Erica Marting and June Armstrong, executive director of the Friends of Rittenhouse Square
Rachel Pritzker and Jennifer Rossiter
Chuck Peruto, Vince Peruto, Lindsay Furman-Alexander, Director of Development- Friends of Rittenhouse Square Org. (a non-profit organization), Silver Brahin and Pia Arellano
Megan Nicoletti Walsh, co-chair of 2024 Soiree on the Square and Mark Nicoletti, sponsor of Ball on the Square
Peter Watson, Elina Pargamanik and Sandra Hazeltine
DJ Smooth
Daniel Grobman, owner and chef Mike’s BBQ and Matt Cooke
Emre Kara and Bora Ozkan
Pex Arellano and Matt Fingerman, Senior Vice President and Team Leader for BNY Wealth
REMINDER: Surround yourself with like-minded people. Life is the ultimate team sport. Connection helps us to stay the course and this takes a village. – Pex Arellano
Taylor Schwartz, Sam Schwartz and Christina Mitchell
This cocktail-attire event is a unique and exciting way to spend a Friday night in Rittenhouse Square with all proceeds going towards supporting our mission. Hope to see you there!!
Manayunk’s new headquarters are now open at 106 Grape Street
Recently the Manayunk Development Corporation celebrated the grand opening and ribbon cutting for the brand-new Manayunk Welcome Center and MDC’s new headquarters.
A dream nine years in the making! The building was purchased in 2016 and after years of meetings, architects, renovations, etc the new welcome center is ready to welcome visitors and tourists to one of Philadelphia’s top main streets and commercial corridors.
Janine Gasarowski, Caitlin Marsilii, Rhiannon Smith and Joan Deneberg
Guests, and dignataries gatehered last month to celebrate the center’s opening, and tour the new buidling. A brand new, four-story building home to all MDC and MSSD operations.
This property features a Manayunk Welcome Center and a retail incubator space on the ground floor, leasable office space on the second floor, the MDC office on the third floor, and a fourth-floor Bridge Meeting Room – a community meeting space.
outdoor space over looking picturesque Manayunk
Enzhao (John) Liu, Jeddiah Gallery and Andrew Herman, GRIT ConstructionEmily Rogers, Christiane Marques and Adjane BarbosaBrandon Pagano was on hand to greet guests
Anthony Moore and noted singer Julian King
Gwen McCauley, Executive Director, Manayunk Development Corporation
Gwen McCauley, Executive Director shares “The Welcome Center serves as the gateway and a link to our thriving business community, offering visitors a warm introduction and ensuring they connect with the best local services, restaurants and retail. By guiding residents, customers, newcomers and tourists, it not only enhances their experience but also drives economic growth, fosters local partnerships, and promotes the unique strengths of Manayunk. It’s the starting point for building lasting relationships and a vibrant business district.”
Chris Maguire, Tubby Robot & Flat Rock Real Estate, MDC Board President
Chris Maquire, board president, owner of Tubby Robot and Manayunk residence is thrilled and said “The Manayunk Development Corporation’s new building at 106 Grape street has been a long term project that was supported by many hands, and I’m thrilled that we’ve been able to push it across the finish line in 2024. This building will serve not only as a permanent home for the MDC but also as an invaluable resource for shopkeepers, residents, and visitors alike. If something interesting is happening in Manayunk it’s almost certainly going to be channeled through these walls, and I can’t wait to see how the community will grow around this beautiful space.
The space will act as an entry point to the best of Manayunk, offering valuable resources, local insights, historical information, and exclusive Manayunk merchandise for purchase. The MDC collaborates with the MSSD to develop a clean, appealing, secure, and well-maintained business district, aiming to make Manayunk a competitive and desirable place to live, work, shop, dine, and enjoy leisure activities.
Thanks sponsors
The Manayunk Development Corporations (MDC) is a nonprofit corporation with both a primary business development mission and a cooperating community development mission. As a business development organization, MDC takes primary responsibility for the management, promotion, and positive business development of the Main Street business district.
The summer season for the Philadelphia Orchestra at the Mann is almost over and Yannick Conducts One Last Time for the 2024 season there.
On September 18, don’t miss Yannick Conducts Mahler & Debussy, the final performance of The Philadelphia Orchestra’s 2024 residency at the Mann.
Under the direction of Music and Artistic Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin, The Philadelphia Orchestra will perform an evening of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 and Claude Debussy’s La Mer, sure to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
This is the Mann’s last Orchestra and Picnic Night of the season. On Picnic Nights, patrons are invited to pack a picnic (chairs, blankets, food, drink, etc.) to enjoy on the Mann’s Great Lawn before and during the performance.
It sounds like an exciting finale to the summer season so don’t miss it!! I checked the weather, it’s going to be clear, and in the upper 60s when the concert begins at 8PM, but get there earlier to set up your picnic or enjoy delicious food from the Plaza Food Kiosks!! Ticketing Information!!
Let the Fall Social Season Begin: Last night I attended two events. Global Philadelphia’s 2024 World Heritage City Celebration at the Crystal Tea Room, which I will write about next week, and The Good Gala at Union Trust. Both events were Finley Catering spaces.
Established in Philadelphia in 2019, Friends for Good (FFG) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) social philanthropic organization bringing together young professionals with a commitment to community service.
Laila Imam, Dayna Sobanko and Michele Voltz
Supporting and assisting unhoused individuals around Philadelphia has been one of our important areas of focus since 2019. Providing access to food security, clothing and mental health assistance has been something we’ve been proud to provide our partners with – Friends for Good
Doug Foulkes of Bazaarvoice and Joanna Joye
Vanya Sax, Frank Criniti, DJ Smooth and Michael Wynne – Smooth Entertainment
Eric Visnov and Hannah Krupa, ChitChat “It Girl “One To Watch” 10 years ago, Hannah is now pursuing her dreams in NYC, but stopped by last nights gala to sing a few songs for the worthy cause.
Alexandra Hussain and Cassidy Sheppard
Vanya Sax doing his thingLisa Washington, Samaya Brown, Nyashe Felder and Teneasha Billingsley
Ali Volpe and Mina Massaro, MD.
Mike Giangiordano, Helen Liu Gerhad and Alexandira BilderBrooke Storms, and Peter Mastrogiacomo , his company Graysonky was a sponsor the event, Zuna and Scott Cohen, both couples are long time PhillyChitChat readers. It was so nice to be out and about and see everyone again.The Fords: Janine, Wayne and Ryan. Ryan is the Director, Marketing and Operations at Warrington Country Club. I’ve photographed a few events at his scenic venue.Friends for Good: The Good Gala was formal cocktail attire and attended by over 300 people.
If you didn’t see your photo here, you might see it in the November issue of Philly Style Magazine.
Here we are the last Friday of the unofficial end of Summer. It really went by fast, right? Before I set out on our weekend trip, I thought I’d post a few events, and news on the sale of a local LGBTplus bar to a group of philanthropic gentlemen who own two of the most popular water holes in the City, popular piano sing a long, dance bar Tavern on Camac, and UBar, where the bartenders are good listeners.
One of the exciting additions to happen to the Philly skyline is the lighting of City Hall. Out of all the iterations over the last generation, this is definitely the best one. All 4 sides are lit, usually in white, but on special occasions like this one honor Philadelphia police.
There’s a lot of exciting news coming to the little screen in the fall.
How awesome Fox 29 is bringing back the weekend edition of “Good Day Philadelphia.” The show was a staple on the Saturday and Sunday before the pandemic, with Bill Anderson, who is concentrating on his Fox29 show “The Pulse” now.
Taking the helm is reporter Shaynah Ferreira “It’s a new day and a new era here @fox29philly. I’m happy to announce my promotion as the Anchor of the Weekend Morning Edition of Good Day Philadelphia. ☀️☕️” Shaynah wrote on her IG. Joining her will be reporter Marcus Espinoza and zany weather reporter Drew Anderson.
Begins Saturday starting September 14th at 8am, and Sunday September 15th.
Save The Date: You’re going to want to attend the STAND UP FOR FREEDOM fundraiser in support of Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta for Auditor General, not only because he’s the right guy for the job, but it’s going to be a laugh a minute with Wanda Sykes, Connor King, and Gov Shapiro. I kinda had a feeling he wasn’t going to be the VP contender as he committed to this event before the announcement of Walz.
I saw this nugget on Reddit, have the owners of Tavern on Camac, and UBar bought bad boy Tabu It would be great to have a redo on that place and bring it back to it’s Equus glory of the 1980s, when I frequented the place.
Thanks for the memories Summer of 2024. One of my favorite finds was Ike’s Famous Crabcakes on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Enjoyed a few meals there, this time with Michael Newmuis and Kevin Lessard.Mike Toub is in this photo but as a vegan he did not partake.
Speaking of the Mike Toub, we celebrated our 30th anniversary of our first date 7/10/94 (Married 5/24/2014). It’s been a blast. I never imagined the life I have, and can’t imagine a life without him. Lucky me.
It felt like an endless summer, one I thoroughly enjoyed spending about 6 weeks at the shore, mostly Margate & Longport. I spent every day with friends and family, really engaging in conversations and moments. I went bird watching, a lot. I ate too much. I spent at least a day in each of the beach towns from AC to Cape May – there are family exhibitions in both Sea Isle, where my mom grew up, and in Stone Harbor, where we summered as kids. Mike and I celebrated our birthdays in Wildwood Crest at Madison Resorts for a week in July, it was perfect despite the rain. I was so checked out I forgot to acknowledge the 17th anniversary of this blog, 07/07/07. I usually do a big fanfare here, but I was away.
I am ready to get back to work, covering Philly, shooting all kinds of events, and posting on a more regular basis on PhillyChitChat. I know, I promised before and broke that promise, but I’ve run into you, many readers telling me you missed my posts. (I will commit to 3 posts a week. And of course will be continuing with my three outlets Philly Mag, Philly Style and Main Line Today. The dailies CBSPhilly, Metro Philly and Philly Tribune. )
Speaking of Readers: I ran into a long time reader who mentioned he missed the blog, we were at The Happy Rooster , we were both supporting the iconic watering hole which suffered a lot of damage through a water main/steam break underground at 16th and Sansom. They need our support. Currently just the back bar is open, but they have tables set up on the sidewalk and street. There isn’t any food at this time, but I see people bring food while enjoying their favorite cocktail on the property. Hopefully the street construction will be done by December, in time for the new year and a newly renovated Happy Rooster. In the meantime please go out and support them.
Speaking of renovations: (I’ve been reporting on this story for the past 6 years.) Coming along beautifully is The Bellevue renovation. The hotel rooms are nearly complete, residents are moving in https://thebellevuephl.com/ and the new bridal suites on the second floor are currently under construction. The ballroom looks amazing on the 2nd floor.
I noticed the other day that the area where the Starbucks used to be housed has been returned to it’s 1912 splendor, and will now be part of of the entrance way to the new restaurant.
Mr. Edison coming soon. Couldn’t find any info on the internet, but it looks to be a restaurant and lounge located in the old Ralph Lauren store. (Definitely a swanky feel) A perfect location as it wraps around the NE corner of the building, and will have an entrance off of Walnut Street as well as a hotel lobby entrance.
The lobby is coming along nicely as well. (It’s beautiful) I am told that behind this wall is where the new hotel check in will be located. To the left is the old Palm restaurant, with some of Philly’s notable mugs still on the wall. I wonder if that will be the location of the hip, happening lounge the hotel is hoping to create when the renovations are complete. It’d be perfect, especially if they keep the caricatures of Jerry Blavat, Bradley Cooper, Mike Jerrick, Patti LaBelle, Nicole Miller, Geoff Gordon, Ron Rubin and moi overlooking the seating area.
Michelle Miller, of Ground Rittenhouse invited me to try out the NEW Sporting Club last week. We had joined about 15 years ago as well. I stopped working out when I came up with lots of excuses about time, but no more excuses. I signed as soon as I finished.
If you lease at The Residences at the Bellevue you receive a membership to the Sporting Club at the Bellevue. I’ll be there. I’m excited to be back. I really looked into a lot of the local gyms, and you can’t beat what the Sporting Club has to offer. I am not sponsored by the Sporting Club, I’m just excited to belong there. It’s a little pricey, but they have 190 classes, lots of weight training equipment, a pool and pickleball. Right now I am not in shape enough to play, but I hope by December. Also right now at the Sporting Club they’re having a special
Join this August and enjoy $280+ in new member savings!
$100 off Club OR $200 off Executive membership initiation fees
$50 Sporting Club Gift Card (Cannot apply to dues or guest passes)
One personal training Session OR one athletics lesson ($105 value)
One 30-minute golf simulator session ($25 value)
** Available August 1-31, 2024. Cannot be combined with other offers. This offer is not retroactive.**
I do have this partnership with them, if you use the code HughE, you will receive an additional $25 in Sporting Club Gift Card (see above) . That is ongoing and not tied to the monthly specials. I mean if I’m going to talk about my journey, why not.
I’ll also be returning to wishing locals well wishes for milestones I come across. Happy Birthday to Dee Durgin!! We feted her at Almyra tonight celebrate the milestone birthday ❤️
Congratulations EK & Anne Marie MacPherson, long time PCC readers and IG followers. 4 year old Lincoln is excited to be a big brother to Louisa.
Friday The Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation (“the Visitor Center”) and Independence Historical Trust (“the Trust”) will host the first “Movies On The Mall, event,” an outdoor movie series celebrating the themes and history of Independence National Historical Park.
On Friday, August 30, 2024, “National Treasure” will be screened at 7:30 p.m.
The beloved Disney classic features scenes set and filmed in Old City and throughout Philadelphia, including at Independence Hall, The Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market, City Hall, Old Pine Street Presbyterian Church, and the Franklin Institute. ;
On Wednesday, August 7 Philadelphia magazine hosted their annual Best of Philly Soirée at a new venue this year, the Philadelphia Art Museum.
In the past the popular event was held on Dilworth Park, and was subjected to unbearable heat waves, downpours and often both. Another winner the choice: This year there was a light mist for most of the evening.
Senzwa Ntshepe, The Connect stands in front of LED Marquee lights, and Charming Garlands balloon backdrop.
Guests were treated to delicious bites from partners and Best of Philly winning restaurants.
Danuta Mieloch and the team from Rescue Spa, celebrating their 20th Anniversary this year
Fred Stein , and Neil Stein of for The Creative Group, saved my night by providing me a pen and paper. I took too much summer off and forgot how to do my job, LOL
Greg Harm, Leisa De John Nappe, Jen Ellman, Emil de John and John Iuliano in the Wells Fargo VIP lounge.Chef/Founder, Kyle Cuffie–Scott (r) & Chef/Co-Owner Joe Lope (l) of Darnel’s Cake who served up delicious treats at the Soiree with Molly, of Bishop’s Collar in Fairmount dance to the beats of the night.
Roland Bui, Sandy Sanches-Bui, Tammy Veneza and Christy Nguyen;
One to watch: Roland Bui is the entrepreneur brainchild behind Com.unity, a marketing arm for Philly’s artists and culinary talent. Shining a light on talent, that might not always be in the spotlight, the unsung. I see him driving Philly’s restaurant scene back in the spotlight as it was a decade ago. One of the ways he highlights talent is through his collaborative dinners. The next one Monday August 26th at Bok Bar. INFO
Imani Johnson and Brianna Perrin, favorite restaurant is El Techo
Dominick Leonetti, III and his mom Maria Leonetti new owners of Bobby Chez Famous Crabcakes
It’s always fun to run into the Bobby Chez folks, when I was a kid my first job was washing dishes at Bobby Chez’ restaurant in Voorhees NJ, 40 years ago (inside the Flyers ice practice rink building). He later opened a spot in Westmont, that gained infamy.
The Fairmount Park Team, Best of Philly Playground, FDR’s Anna C. Verna Playground: Maura McCarthy, John Sigmund, Erin Quigley, Allison Schapker, and Meg Holscher
Looks like the burbs are looking good on Joe and Sarah Maiellano. A prolific writer and publicist, Sarah contributed to the 50th Anniversary issue of Philly Mag.
Will I ever see that photo Mainey Boy? LOL
Speaking of: Jermaine Jenkins, Design Philadelphia, Anthony Lehman, & Mason Snyder of Feast Your Eyes, Trina Saglimbene and Melissa Brannon, Uncommon Events
Great venue, spread out over four floors with plenty of bites and booze, live entertainment and art. People really enjoyed themselves.
The Fairmount Park Conservancy team, Best of Philly Playground, FDR’s Anna C. Verna Playground: Maura McCarthy, John Sigmund, Erin Quigley, Allison Schapker, and Meg Holscher
Imani Johnson and Brianna Perrin, favorite restaurant is El Techo
Tom McGrath, former editor of Philly Mag (and the guy who hired me over a decade ago. I can remember it as if it were yesterday. I was still a paralegal and met him on my lunch hour. I had never took a photo class or journalism class, and Philly Mag, a magazine I read all my life, my mom had a subscription, wanted to hire me for their Society/Party column, WOW!!) BTW Tom has a new book out. and Kate McGrath, Jan and Jamil Leary
New on the scene and to Philly Stephanie Lulls, of Remy Martin
Speaking of new: Popular NYC’s Levain Bakery is coming to 1518 Walnut Street, in the fall. John Farmer, Arlene DeLaCruz and Pam Levy. Looking forward to it, definitely a better spot than the now closed Carlos’ Bakery at 21st and Walnut!!
Adam Rotwit and Jen Su, on a break from covering the many celebrity red carpet events worldwide.
Then all the major mascots showed up to this years Soiree, and were excited to show off their magazine covers from over the years. It really was a special night for all in attendance. Social season is heating up, and I will be posting more on chitchat going forward. Socially yours, xoxo HughE
The Wardrobe, a mission-driven nonprofit organization focused on eliminating clothing insecurity, curbing fashion waste, and empowering people for success, hosted its largest annual fundraiser “The VIP Party,” on Monday, June 10, at Rivers Casino.
The event was emceed by Delaware County native Leah Cevoli, a multi-hyphenate creative best known for voicing characters on the Emmy award-winning cartoon Robot Chicken and her work on the HBO hit series Deadwood. Leah is currently in town producing the feature film, Delco: The Movie.
The Wardrobe is a mission-driven nonprofit organization focused on eliminating clothing insecurity, curbing fashion waste, and empowering people for success.
Elana Chasan, Paige Wolf and Nicole Martin
Laura Vaughn and Gianna Cettei
Many McClennen, Melissa Novak, Kate Carlie and Laura Reed
Guests arrived, and enjoyed an hour long cocktail party with a buffet before settling down for the program and an exciting game of bingo.
Sheri K. Cole. Executive Director, discussed how to support the Programs, as well as The Wardrobe locations in Philadelphia (413 N. 4th Street) and Delaware County (62 West Marshall Road, Upper Darby) are open Monday-Saturday from 11-6 p.m. for shopping and client appointments. In Chester County, we are open in Kennett Square (345 Scarlett Road) and at the Exton Square Mall (2nd floor near Boscov’s) Tuesday-Thursday from 11-6 p.m. Clothing donations are accepted during open hours. Visit www.wardrobepa.org to learn how to donate and shop to support your community.
Veronica McKee cheers to the 2 keys she bought for $100 each, in hopes of winning top prizes in one of the surprise boxes.
Kris Derewicz, Nina Markey, The Wardrobe Board President and Paul Sopher all of Littler
Riley Mock and Kade Deeton
Best Dressed: Rhonda Richardson, was noted for being one of the best dressed of the evenings. She got her outfit from The Wadrobe!! Great choice!!
If the key fits… The first winner of the $100 key reacts to the lock opening, as Sheri Cole cheers. Each box contained prizes worth more than $200 up to $1000. Another great event, see you next year!!
Receive Clothing: Although most participants are referred by our Community Partners, individuals in need are welcome to use our Open Access program to receive the clothing they need at no cost. Information on how to get clothing or sign up as a Community Partner is available at www.wardrobepa.org/services.
On Wednesday, June 26 Rittenhouse Grill (1701 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA) unveils a new bar concept – the Leopard Lounge!!
If you’ve never been to the Rittenhouse Grill, you’ll find this award-winning restaurant nestled on the first floor of the Warwick Rittenhouse Square Hotel. In addition to serving amazing culinary experiences to diners for over 25 years, it has long been known as one of Philadelphia’s power restaurants for celebrities, politicians, athletes, and more.
The sprawling restaurant resembles a swanky supper club that accommodates upward of 220 guests across a multi-level dining room highlighted by a wall-to-wall leopard print rug. Garth Weldon – Restaurant Owner – Rittenhouse Grill
Each night, a performer uses the stunning glass-topped baby grand piano to entertain guests by playing early 20th-century American jazz standards, show tunes, classics from the ‘80s and ‘90s, and even the latest hits!
Brenda Hillegas, Rowhome Magazine and Genevieve XiongAlex Coxen, Lauren Meyer and Montana KashrianAlexander Perry and Maggie Munthali
Leopards are fast felines and can run at up to 58km/h! They’re super springy, too, and can leap 6m forward through the air – that’s the length of three adults lying head to toe!
Phuong Nguyen and Suzi Nash, PGN columnist. A legend in the field. I know I irritate her as I keep turning her down for an interview. I’m shy.
Scott Fisher, GM Warwick Rittenhouse Square Hotel and Carla Fisher
Melanie Highbloom @melmelllll and Laura Swartz, Deputy Editor Philly Mag, @pompomflipflop; With the summer heat coming on strong this season, I’d recomend strolling over to the new Leopard Lounge at the Rittenhouse Grill for a hot time with the air conditioning on blast in the swanky new bar.
You might have noticed a page change here at PhillyChitChat. I was so busy working and ignoring my emails from WordPress, my blog site. It seems my former custom page was out of date. Who knew that could happen. WP updated itself and now I have to create a new backdrop, although I am ok with this white background. But there are a few things missing from the page, like my subscriber link, which can be found under “Today’s Post”. I’ll figure it all out this summer when I have a lot of time. Also some photos from this event will be in one of my magazine partners in September. So if you don’t see you here, or on CBSPhilly….
