Category: Philadelphia

Categories
Philadelphia

NEW YEAR’S EVENT DETAILS FOR PHILADELPHIA REGION 2014 – 2015 – The Mummers New Route

Mayors
Michael A. Nutter and Dana Redd of Camden, New Jersey, announced their
Cities’ plans to make the Philadelphia region the best place to
celebrate the New Year.  Featured events include the SugarHouse New
Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront at 6PM
and midnight on New Year’s Eve and the Mummers Parade on Broad Street
on New Year’s Day.
 
“There
is no better place to spend the New Year than in Philadelphia,” said
Mayor Nutter.  “The Mummers Parade and the SugarHouse New Year’s Eve
Fireworks on the
Waterfront are both family affairs.  The majority of the Mummer
performers are proudly following in the footsteps of their parents,
aunt, uncles and older siblings.   The New Year’s Eve fireworks will
once again be presented at two times: 6pm and midnight,
to accommodate families and folks who may have other plans at
midnight.  So, come to our beautiful city on New Year’s Eve, watch the
fireworks, stay overnight in one of our great hotels, and celebrate on
Broad Street with the Mummers on New Year’s Day – it’s
a great way to ring in the New Year.”
Mayor
Redd said, “The City of Camden is thrilled to celebrate another New
Year’s Eve with its sister city, Philadelphia. The SugarHouse New Year’s
Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront represents
a unique collaboration between our two great cities and numerous
public-private partnerships that are helping to transform our
waterfronts into a world-class destination.”
The SugarHouse New
Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront is an annual tradition with twice
the fireworks and twice the fun on December 31st. 
Spectators can enjoy unique, choreographed and synchronized
soundtracks to fireworks launched from barges in the middle of the
Delaware River and heard on both the Philadelphia and Camden
waterfronts.  KYW Newsradio will also broadcast the official soundtrack
to both shows.  The midnight show will be televised live
by CBS3 following a special pre-show of events leading up to the
countdown. 
“For the past four
years, we’ve had a blast being part of Philly’s biggest New Year’s
celebrations,” said Wendy Hamilton, General Manager of SugarHouse
Casino. “We’re glad we have the opportunity to keep these
traditions alive for the thousands of Philadelphians and visitors who
come to the Delaware River Waterfront and Broad Street every New Year’s.
With our property’s next grand opening right around the corner, 2015 is
going to be a big year for us, and we can’t
wait to ring it in.”
Tom Corcoran, President, Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC), said,“We’re proud to once again produce the
two  SugarHouse New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Waterfront, it’s
one big celebration that brings together two cities and attracts
thousands of visitors to the Delaware River Waterfront to celebrate the
new year.”
In addition to hosting
the New Year’s Eve fireworks, DRWC is celebrating the holidays with Blue
Cross RiverRink Winterfest. This seasonal park at the Blue Cross
RiverRink includes a ski-chalet style lodge, food
and beverages by Garces Events, Art Star gift shop, a light display
including one of the city’s largest Christmas trees and a winter garden
complete with rocking chairs and fire pits. 
The
2015 Philadelphia Mummers Parade will follow a new route on Broad
Street STARTING AT City Hall to Washington Avenue in Philadelphia beginning at
10AM on January
1st.  Spectators are invited to enjoy the parade from three
special performance zones as more than 10,000 glittering and colorful
Mummers strut and dance down Broad Street.
The
Philadelphia Mummers Parade features five divisions, each with its own
artistry, sound and customs. Leading the Parade are the Fancies, with
their sequin-studded
lavish costumes and feathered glamour.  Next are the Comics, who parody
hot political issues and pop culture. Then it’s the men of the Comic
Wench brigades in bonnets and bloomers, waving multi-tiered parasols. 
Finally, after all 17 brigades are judged, the
String Bands will march down Broad Street entertaining the crowds with
their intricate musical arrangements combining string, reed and
percussion instruments. 
For
the ultimate view of the Fancies’, Comics’, Wenches’ and String Bands’
first performance before the Judges, the Grand Stand entertainment zone,
on Dilworth
Plaza at 15th and Market Streets, will feature more than
1,200 ticketed bleacher seats.  Additional drill spots are located at
the Union League at Broad and Sansom Streets (pictured above) and at Broad and Carpenter
Streets.  Tickets for the Mummers Parade Grand
Stand bleacher seats ($20), Fancy Brigade Family Show ($28), Fancy
Brigade Finale ($23), and MummersFest ($5) are available by calling 1-800-537-7676, or can be purchased in person at the Independence Visitor Center on 6th and Market Streets or
at the Welcome Center on 16th Street and JFK Boulevard. 

Philly.com has a great illustration map of the 2015 Mummers Parade Route

Another
family friendly activity for fans is MummersFest at the Pennsylvania
Convention Center, a four-day festival from Friday, December 28 through
Monday,
December 31 which provides a sneak peek into the making of the Mummers
Fancy Brigade Finale. The interactive event offers families
opportunities to try on Mummers costumes, watch the clubs rehearse, go
on a backstage tour, participate in crafts, and even learn
to strut.
Michael
DiBerardinis, Deputy Mayor for Environmental and Community Resources
said, “This parade is a symbol of Philadelphia culture
and Parks and Recreation is proud to be the host of this annual family
event. We are also excited to be collaborating this year with the
Mayor’s office, Sugar House casino, and the Delaware River Water Front
to provide our residents with an unforgettable New
Year experience.”
Get the latest news and information on Philadelphia’s holiday happenings at
www.VisitPhilly.com/holidays. 
For more information on the SugarHouse New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the
Waterfront and the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest, visit: http://www.delawareriverwaterfront.com/press-room. 
For more information on the 2015 Mummers Parade, visit: www.phillymummers.com.
Categories
Philadelphia

THE HERREMANS FOUNDATION AND DICK’S SPORTING GOODS HOST SHOPPING EVENT FOR KIDS

I really wanted to go to this, but I was covering the Philly Style Magazine party, which I will be writing about on Monday. Tune in to see what people wore, and what they told me, especially Carl Dranoff. 

********************

The Todd Herremans Foundation recently hosted
members of Leprechaun Sports Association of Philadelphia at DICK’S
Sporting Goods. Eagles players Todd Herremans, Jason Kelce and Mark
Sanchez served as “Shopping Consultants” and surprised the kids with
$100 shopping sprees from the Herremans Foundation as they shopped for
winter coats, gloves, boots and other cold-weather gear.

 Todd Herremans and the kids. I like those shamrocks on the sleeves. I think this would be a good St Patrick’s Day look. (It’s only 10 weeks away)

“It’s a great feeling to provide underserved
children with a chance to get the cold-winter gear they need, as well as
some other great things from DICK’S,” said Herremans. “I’m really
thankful for (Jason) Kelce and Mark (Sanchez) to take time out of their
busy schedules to help spread some holiday cheer.”
  Jason Kelce

 The kids enjoyed a Chik-Fi-Let lunch, and who wouldn’t.
Mark Sanchez talking about the virtues of the sneaker
Todd Herremans, Jason Kelce and Mark
Sanchez
(Thanks to the Todd Herremons Foundation for the content and pixs)
About the Todd Herremans Foundation:Created
by Philadelphia Eagles Offensive Lineman, and Ravenna, Michigan native,
the Herremans foundation’s mission is “to help where help is needed.” A
501 (c) 3 designated charity, it raises funds for various charitable
organizations in Philadelphia and Michigan. More information can be
obtained by visiting www.herremansfoundation.org, by emailing info@herremansfoundation.org or calling 231-740-5809.
Categories
Philadelphia

Photos: PhillyChitChat Pop-Up Party at Christmas Village

Last week I had another one of my PhillyChitChat Pop-up Parties, where I invite readers, influencers and tastemakers to a behind the scenes tour or demonstration somewhere. So far we’ve had the PhillyChitChat incHUGHbator at Serafina, and the pop-up party with the new Spring menu tasting at Square 1682 

This time we headed to the Christmas Village, which is definitely one of my favorite holiday places this year. Today I’ll be doing a lot of my shopping there for the holiday, which I haven’t started yet.

First stop Kettle Corn. Mom loves, loves, loves good Kettle Corn. Don’t tell her but I’m getting her this. Plus I did get her a cute shawl from local Philly designer Melissa D’Agostino.

That Alexander Hankin is such a card.

TODAY at noon is the last concert at lunch at the Christmas Village, come out and say hi.

Heather Yerid, Matt Ray and Melissa Leonard. (I’m sure grateful to meet Melissa this year, she’s so much fun. A bigger fan girl than me. Meets celebs with her daughter and should definitely blog about it.)
Thanks to all the food vendors at the Christmas Village for feeding my 25 guests, who braved the wicked weather to come out and support me.
Like the always festive Michelle Leonard from the Main Line. How awesome is she and her holiday style.
Sam Shoap and Candice Lauren

The crew
OK these things, what are they cupping thingys. do you see Angelina and Brad, there’s also a Rocky one, Flyers and Eagles. Must haves.
Kory, in all things Kory. He’s a genius, and together we’ve done a lot of great things. He’s also very appreciative, and tells me all the time. PhillyChitChat is better because of meeting Kory.
 TJ Tarrant, Jason Cevera and Katie Griffin.
Did you know Wisconsin Cheese place was so busy they ran out and had to get another shipment from Wisconsin.

This year the Christmas Village has quadrupled the number of people who
have visited. No doubt Kory Aversa, Aversa PR knocked it out of there
with press placements. And I think Dilworth Park is a perfect
complemtary attraction across the street. The holiday spots in
Philadelphia are definite must do every year.

Thank you to my friends, and readers for coming out and supporting the 3rd PhillyChitChat Pop-Up Party.

If you want to be considered for a PhillyChitChat Pop-up Party email me at
buzz (at) PhillyChitChat.com and I will add you to my list. Thanks

Categories
Philadelphia

Official Statement: Charting a New Course on Cuba – Just Released

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE –

White House Press Office noreply@messages.whitehouse.gov (delivered 2 minutes ago)

December 17, 2014
Fact Sheet:  Charting a New Course on Cuba

Today,
the United States is taking historic steps to chart a new course in our
relations with Cuba and to further engage and empower the Cuban
people.  We are
separated by 90 miles of water, but brought together through the
relationships between the two million Cubans and Americans of Cuban
descent that live in the United States, and the 11 million Cubans who
share similar hopes for a more positive future for Cuba. 

It
is clear that decades of U.S. isolation of Cuba have failed to
accomplish our enduring objective of promoting the emergence of a
democratic, prosperous, and
stable Cuba.  At times, longstanding U.S. policy towards Cuba has
isolated the United States from regional and international partners,
constrained our ability to influence outcomes throughout the Western
Hemisphere, and impaired the use of the full range of
tools available to the United States to promote positive change in
Cuba.  Though this policy has been rooted in the best of intentions, it
has had little effect – today, as in 1961, Cuba is governed by the
Castros and the Communist party.

We
cannot keep doing the same thing and expect a different result.  It
does not serve America’s interests, or the Cuban people, to try
to push Cuba toward collapse.  We know from hard-learned experience
that it is better to encourage and support reform than to impose
policies that will render a country a failed state.  With our actions
today, we are calling on Cuba to unleash the potential
of 11 million Cubans by ending unnecessary restrictions on their
political, social, and economic activities.  In that spirit, we should
not allow U.S. sanctions to add to the burden of Cuban citizens we seek
to help.
Today,
we are renewing our leadership in the Americas.  We are choosing to cut
loose the anchor of the past, because it is entirely necessary
to reach a better future – for our national interests, for the American
people, and for the Cuban people.

Key Components of the Updated Policy Approach:

Since
taking office in 2009, President Obama has taken steps aimed at
supporting the ability of the Cuban people to gain greater control over
their own lives
and determine their country’s future.  Today, the President announced
additional measures to end our outdated approach, and to promote more
effectively change in Cuba that is consistent with U.S. support for the
Cuban people and in line with U.S. national
security interests.  Major elements of the President’s new approach
include:

Establishing diplomatic relations with Cuba-
·        
The
President has instructed the Secretary of State to immediately initiate
discussions with Cuba on the re-establishment of diplomatic relations
with Cuba, which were severed
in January 1961.
·        
In
the coming months, we will re-establish an embassy in Havana and carry
out high-level exchanges and visits between our two governments as part
of the normalization process. 
As an initial step, the Assistant Secretary of State for Western
Hemisphere Affairs will lead the U.S. Delegation to the next round of
U.S.-Cuba Migration Talks in January 2015, in Havana.
·        
U.S.
engagement will be critical when appropriate and will include continued
strong support for improved human rights conditions and democratic
reforms in Cuba and other measures
aimed at fostering improved conditions for the Cuban people.
·        
The
United States will work with Cuba on matters of mutual concern and that
advance U.S. national interests, such as migration, counternarcotics,
environmental protection, and
trafficking in persons, among other issues. 

Adjusting regulations to more effectively empower the Cuban people-

·        
The
changes announced today will soon be implemented via amendments to
regulations of the Departments of the Treasury and Commerce.   Our new
policy changes will further enhance
our goal of empowering the Cuban population.

·        
Our
travel and remittance policies are helping Cubans by providing
alternative sources of information and opportunities for self-employment
and private property ownership, and
by strengthening independent civil society. 
·        
These
measures will further increase people-to-people contact; further
support civil society in Cuba; and further enhance the free flow of
information to, from, and among the
Cuban people.  Persons must comply with all provisions of the revised
regulations; violations of the terms and conditions are enforceable
under U.S. law.

Facilitating an expansion of travel under general licenses for the 12 existing categories of travel to Cuba authorized by law-

·        
General
licenses will be made available for all authorized travelers in the
following existing categories: (1) family visits; (2) official business
of the U.S. government, foreign
governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations; (3)
journalistic activity; (4) professional research and professional
meetings; (5) educational activities; (6) religious activities; (7)
public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other
competitions, and exhibitions; (8) support for the Cuban people; (9)
humanitarian projects; (10) activities of private foundations or
research or educational institutes; (11) exportation, importation, or
transmission of information or information materials;
and (12) certain export transactions that may be considered for
authorization under existing regulations and guidelines. 
·        
Travelers
in the 12 categories of travel to Cuba authorized by law will be able
to make arrangements through any service provider that complies with the
U.S. Treasury’s Office
of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regulations governing travel services
to Cuba, and general licenses will authorize provision of such
services. 
·        
The
policy changes make it easier for Americans to provide business
training for private Cuban businesses and small farmers and provide
other support for the growth of Cuba’s
nascent private sector.  Additional options for promoting the growth of
entrepreneurship and the private sector in Cuba will be explored.

Facilitating remittances to Cuba by U.S. persons-

·        
Remittance
levels will be raised from $500 to $2,000 per quarter for general
donative remittances to Cuban nationals (except to certain officials of
the government or the Communist
party); and donative remittances for humanitarian projects, support for
the Cuban people, and support for the development of private businesses
in Cuba will no longer require a specific license.
·        
Remittance forwarders will no longer require a specific license.

Authorizing expanded commercial sales/exports from the United States of certain goods and services-

·        
The
expansion will seek to empower the nascent Cuban private sector.  Items
that will be authorized for export include certain building materials
for private residential construction,
goods for use by private sector Cuban entrepreneurs, and agricultural
equipment for small farmers.  This change will make it easier for Cuban
citizens to have access to certain lower-priced goods to improve their
living standards and gain greater economic
independence from the state.

Authorizing American citizens to import additional goods from Cuba-

·        
Licensed
U.S. travelers to Cuba will be authorized to import $400 worth of goods
from Cuba, of which no more than $100 can consist of tobacco products
and alcohol combined.

Facilitating authorized transactions between the United States and Cuba-

·        
U.S.
institutions will be permitted to open correspondent accounts at Cuban
financial institutions to facilitate the processing of authorized
transactions.
·        
The
regulatory definition of the statutory term “cash in advance” will be
revised to specify that it means “cash before transfer of title”; this
will provide more efficient financing
of authorized trade with Cuba.
·        
U.S. credit and debit cards will be permitted for use by travelers to Cuba.
·        
These measures will improve the speed, efficiency, and oversight of authorized payments between the United States and Cuba.

Initiating new efforts to increase Cubans’ access to communications and their ability to communicate freely-

·        
Cuba
has an internet penetration of about five percent—one of the lowest
rates in the world.  The cost of telecommunications in Cuba is
exorbitantly high, while the services
offered are extremely limited.
·        
The
commercial export of certain items that will contribute to the ability
of the Cuban people to communicate with people in the United States and
the rest of the world will
be authorized.  This will include the commercial sale of certain
consumer communications devices, related software, applications,
hardware, and services, and items for the establishment and update of
communications-related systems.
·        
Telecommunications
providers will be allowed to establish the necessary mechanisms,
including infrastructure, in Cuba to provide commercial
telecommunications and internet services,
which will improve telecommunications between the United States and
Cuba.

Updating the application of Cuba sanctions in third countries-

·        
U.S.-owned
or -controlled entities in third countries will be generally licensed
to provide services to, and engage in financial transactions with, Cuban
individuals in third
countries.  In addition, general licenses will unblock the accounts at
U.S. banks of Cuban nationals who have relocated outside of Cuba; permit
U.S. persons to participate in third-country professional meetings and
conferences related to Cuba; and, allow foreign
vessels to enter the United States after engaging in certain
humanitarian trade with Cuba, among other measures.

Pursuing discussions with the Cuban and Mexican governments to discuss our unresolved maritime boundary in the Gulf of Mexico-

·        
Previous
agreements between the United States and Cuba delimit the maritime
space between the two countries within 200 nautical miles from shore. 
The United States, Cuba, and
Mexico have extended continental shelf in an area within the Gulf of
Mexico where the three countries have not yet delimited any boundaries.
·        
The
United States is prepared to invite the governments of Cuba and Mexico
to discuss shared maritime boundaries in the Gulf of Mexico.

Initiating a review of Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism-

·        
The
President has instructed the Secretary of State to immediately launch
such a review, and provide a report to the President within six months
regarding Cuba’s support for
international terrorism.  Cuba was placed on the list in 1982.

Addressing Cuba’s participation in the 2015 Summit of the Americas in Panama-

·        
President
Obama will participate in the Summit of the Americas in Panama.  Human
rights and democracy will be key Summit themes.  Cuban civil society
must be allowed to participate
along with civil society from other countries participating in the
Summit, consistent with the region’s commitments under the
Inter-American Democratic Charter.  The United States welcomes a
constructive dialogue among Summit governments on the Summit’s
principles. 

Unwavering Commitment to Democracy, Human Rights, and Civil Society

A
critical focus of our increased engagement will include continued
strong support by the United States for improved human rights conditions
and democratic reforms
in Cuba.  The promotion of democracy supports universal human rights by
empowering civil society and a person’s right to speak freely,
peacefully assemble, and associate, and by supporting the ability of
people to freely determine their future.   Our efforts
are aimed at promoting the independence of the Cuban people so they do
not need to rely on the Cuban state.

Categories
Philadelphia

Details of the New Observation Tower at Liberty One – Press Conference with the Principles, views, cafe news and more

Tourism officials from various organizations throughout the
City were on hand yesterday as Mayor Nutter and global tourism operator
Montparnasse 56 announced the newest tourist attraction for Center City
Philadelphia yesterday at a press conference in Conversation Hall in City Hall:
Philadelphia’s first large-scale observation deck at One Liberty Place,

scheduled
to open in Summer of 2015. Montparnasse 56 (or M56) is a Parisian-based company
that operates observation decks in the John Hancock Tower in Chicago (Chicago
360), The Pierrelatte Crocodile Park (Rhone Valley, France), Fernsehturm /
Berlin TV Tower (Berlin, Germany) and the Montparnasse 56 Tower in Paris — will
be building the observation deck on the 57th floor of One Liberty Place in
downtown Philadelphia. (One Liberty stands 61 stories.)

Stewart Brown, GM, One Liberty Place and The Shops at Liberty Place, Thomas M. Dempsey, Senior VP at METROPOLIS Investment Holdings Inc. and Jill Scarlett, Retail Shops Manager, Shops at Liberty Place, where the gift shop and ticket booth will be located.
Alex DuFrayne, PHLCVB, Christina Cassidy, PHLCVB, and Megan Ungar, PHLCVB. (one the subject of new, the girls are excited to move into their new offices next week at 16th and Market
Streets)
 Opening in summer
2015, the unnamed observation project is underway and they are hard at work
designing a truly unique and beautiful new way for visitors and locals to view
Philadelphia. What should we call it? (CakeCinema photo)
Mark Ladley, En Route, Bill Gehrman, Founder & President En Route, Laura Burkhardt, Where Magazine, Sam Agoos, En Route, James Zeleniak, Punch Media and Will Andrew.
Brûlée Catering by Chef Jean-Marie Lacroix and Liz Difrancesco, Brûlée Catering catered the press conference, and are a contender for the potential cafe at the new observation deck.
Paul R. Levy President and CEO of Center City District, and Jack Ferguson, PHLCVB President + CEO.
Diane McGraw,  ‎Executive Director of PA Travel, Tourism and Film and Meryl Levitz, CEO of Visit Philly
Evan Evans, GM of Montparnasse 56 Philadelphia greets the guests as Patrick Abisseror, CEO of Montparnasse 56 and Eric  Deutsch, VP Montparnasse 56 USA look on. (Evan told me that he’s excited in his new position, you’ll recall he opened Le Meridien hotel on Arch Street, and before that was associated with the Bellevue as well as working with the Starr organization. Congrats to him.)
Patrick Abisseror, CEO of Montparnasse 56 flew in from Paris to attend the press conference. He’s watched the growth of Philadelphia, with it’s many possibilities. His observation towers have been the number one tourist destinations in each city they are located and know that the same will hold true in Philadelphia.

 Currently Philadelphia has one tourist observation deck at the
top of City Hall (40 stories, which will remain opened as well, go to Room 121 for
tickets & a tour of the building), but with the expanding
skyline another one at Liberty One will give a more expansive view of
the City,
as well as will be open later in the evening as well as on weekends
(City Hall closes at 4:30PM and is not opened on the weekend or
holidays.) 

 Although no price was mentioned yesterday, at Chicago 360, general admission prices ranged from youth $12 (3 yrs old to 11
yrs old) to adults (12yrs+) $18.

Mayor Nutter reads the proclamation in honor of the new observation tower as  Patrick Abisseror, CEO of Montparnasse 56 and Eric  Deutsch, VP Montparnasse 56 USA look on.

There are plans for a café at the Philadelphia
location, but won’t be in place until after the opening of the observation
center (which should be opened in time for the Pope’s mass on the Parkway.) Look for champagne nights, and Wine nights with the sunset and small bites. This will be as much of a Philadelphia destination as it is for tourists.
PS And rumor has it that a new restaurant will open in the next year (2016) on the 58th floor.

Categories
Philadelphia

Recap & Photos: The Best Cocktail/Networking Luncheon – PHLCVB’s 2014 Annual Luncheon

Nearly 1,200
hospitality industry professionals, local business leaders and politicians
attended the annual PHLCVB’s 2014 Annual Luncheon on
Wednesday, November 26. What is billed as the largest hospitality
industry
networking event included a cocktail hour, buffet luncheon and a short
program,
and I mean short, it’s all about the networking and catching up with old
friends I consider it to be one of the best cocktail parties of the year. Many of the City’s decision makers and influencers attend. It’s an invite only, ticketed event too. Most people don’t even realize it happens.

 Carolyn Boser Newhouse, Barry “Ben Franklin” Stevens (he’s pretty darn believable) and Abby Newhouse

 Romulo L. Diaz Jr., Vice President and General Counsel, PECO, and Derrick J.V. Sawyer, EFO, Fire Commissioner.
 Elliot-Imani Griffin  Communications Director and Legislative Assistant, Jason Lewis, Office of Councilwomen Blondell Reynolds Brown and Nicole Allen, Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance.

 Jill Asher, Alana Tosti, and Alissa McConachie, Philadelphia Magazine.
 Elka Battle, Scott Mirkin, ESM Productions, Marie Nicoll, Melissa Marsilli, Chermaina Roumeltheo and Liz Herrick.
 I loved the tablescapes and room decor Choice created for the event. 
 Several years ago Discover PHL did away with the traditional sit down luncheon, with speeches and recognitions and
went with a really fun, fresh idea of a 2.5 hr networking event with a buffet. There were sponsored tables if you wanted to sit with your posse, but there was also random seating areas and cocktail tables for friends to gather around. 

 Everyone was drawn to this unique sitting area.
 Jacob Alvarez and Kenyana Kutney, both of Replica Creative.
 During
the short program, which included a message from Jack Ferguson,
President & CEO of the Philadelphia
Convention & Visitors Bureau citing the PHLCVB’s major
accomplishments
within this past year, including the launch of the “PHL: Here For The
Making”
marketing campaign in April, a 10-page editorial project by National
Geographic
Traveler magazine and the organization’s contributions to moving
Philadelphia
to the 13th most visited American city by overseas travelers in 2013 and
what’s
to come in 2014; then there was a taped message from Mayor Michael
Nutter  which was interesting since he was live in person at the
luncheon), the last speaker was Jason Ware, ‎Sr.
Manager, Operations & Meetings at American Heart Association (AHA) who announced
that AHA has selected
Philadelphia as the site of its 2019 annual meeting which was greeted by thunderous applause of all the guests.

 Jim Werner, Visit Philly, Brigid Squilla, Councilman Mark Squilla and Michael Sheridan, Temple University School of Tourism. (Congrats to Mike for taking up running this year and running his first half marathon.)

 Councilwomen Blondell Reynolds Brown, Mary Love, Philadelphia Zoo and Sue Fee, Synergy and adjunct professor at Temple U. (Thanks Sue for having Kory and I speak to your marketing class at Temple University.)

 Aramark does the catering at the Pa Convention Center. I’ve been to many a good party here but never saw them create a “salad bar.”
Which was very clever and popular, but

 they need to larger glasses, like a Planter’s Punch bowl or a salad bowl would be fine. Again though I loved the idea and people loved seeing their salads tossed, but the lettuce would fall out of the glass.

 The ladies of Delilah’s Gentleman Club and Steakhouse and the GM.

 Danielle Cohn, and Mayor Michael Nutter listen to the speakers on stage. This was Danielle’s last day at Discover PHL, after 18 years at the company she’s now at Comcast supporting entrepreneurs, startups and innovation throughout Philadelphia and the country.
 The Honorable Marian Tasco, Philadelphia City Council celebrates her birthday with Charmaine Matlock-Turner, Urban Affairs Coalitition.

 Julie Coker Graham, executive vice president of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), Jason Ware, Sr. Manager, Operations & Meetings at American Heart Association and Maria Grasso, Director- National AccountsPhiladelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau.

 Brendan Walsh, Mole Street Productions and Amanda Hill, Cashman & Assocs.

Gail Harrity, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Robert W. Bogle, chairman, president and chief executive officer of The Philadelphia Tribune.
 Joe Corrigan, Edge Hill, Heidi Hawkins, Justin Pizzi and Kim Joyce all of Aqua.

 Charles Croce,  Executive Director and CEO of the Philadelphia History Museum at the Atwater Kent, Alan Greenberger, Deputy Mayor for Economic Development and Director of Commerce and  Ed Grouse, Executive Director, Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association

 Tony Crawford, Chariot Companies and Karen Lewis, Drexel University

 Rich Negrin, Deputy Mayor for Administration & Coordination and Managing Director, María Montero external affairs  Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority and Alan Greenberger, Deputy Mayor.
 Andrew Wheeler  Managing Director at Diversified Search and Kathryn Ott Lovell, Executive Director at Fairmount Park Conservancy.

 Larry Giuffra,  ‎Assistant Brand Manager at Replica Creative and Councilman Jim Kenney.

 Nancy Gilboy, Citizen Diplomacy International, Jon Herrmann, USA250, Terese Balzereit, Independence Visitor Center Corporation.
 Atif Bostic, Citizens Bank,  Earl Harvey, earlharvey media group and Kevin Cafferty, OIC Philadelphia.
 Matthew Ray, Chatterblast and Tony Forte,  Saul Ewing LLP

 Crystal Hayes and Michelle Conron, Cashman & Assoc. Michelle Kalev, Four Seasons and Christina Cassidy, Discover PHL
 James Cuorato, president and CEO of the Independence Visitor Center, and Mike Harris, Director, Marketing and Special Projects for the Phillies.
 Svetlana Yazovskikh, ‎Senior International Tourism Sales Manager at Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, Tom Allen, Palomar Hotel and Allison D’Amora, Hotel Monaco.

Lucy MacNichol, Khaila Burke-Green, Marissa Feldman, Danielle Cohn, Mark Correa, Mary Connors, and Hillary Ray all of Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau flank Nicholas DeBenedictis. Chairman, President and CEO Aqua.
Categories
Philadelphia

Opening Party Pixs: Maglio’s Market Opens In South Philly

You know the name, the long standing reputation in the community, now you can buy the product directly from their brand spanking new market in South Philly Maglio’s Market. The  67-year-old sausage company that has been supplying Philadelphia
with tube-shaped meats for decades, opened their new market earlier this month.

Converting a space in the building where Maglio’s sausage production used to take place, (they’ve moved to a larger location nearby),

  the sausage company sells their finest meats, like sweet and spicy
sausage, meatballs, breakfast sausage, delicious cheese, spreads,
Italian cookies,

 There will also be a full Dietz & Watson deli counter, an olive bar,
an extensive range of Cento Fine Italian Foods, Citterio Italian
specialty meats, fresh baked bread from Cacia’s Bakery, seasonal items
for the holidays and an assortment of classic Italian desserts like
cakes, cannoli and cookies. And a hoagie station will offer a selection
of sandwiches.

“The Maglio family is proud to expand our 67-year legacy while bringing
jobs and foot traffic back to South Philly.” said Anthony Maglio Jr.,
President of Maglio Sausage Co. “We are thrilled to offer top quality
and affordable Italian products to the city of Philadelphia.”

Roseanne Lanza, Lorraine McNelis and Joe Dabowski
Camielle Maglio and Anthony Maglio Jr.

When I was a kid my family alternated Thanksgiving with these Maglio’s, we’d have dinner one year at our house in Cherry Hill, one year at their house in South Philly. BUT we’d always spend New Year’s Day with them to enjoy the love of the mummers and football. Jerry Maglio, Christine Maglio, Rita Maglio, Patty Maglio, Pat Maglio, Lisette Maglio

Dawn Mezaroba, Christine Durso and Karen Cole work in the office and love it they told me.
Martin Schieken, and Angelo Lutz (Kitchen Consigliere)
Bobby Rydell stopped by

Maglio’s Market has an extensive cheese selections as well as lunch meats
Perry Milou whipping up one of his creations

Gordana Loncar and Trish Hueber

The Market will also offer all the fixins’, including potato salad,
coleslaw and  Italian sodas. For the more discerning customer, Anthony
Maglio Jr. will be curating a collection of fine, high-end cheeses from
around the world.
Anthony, AJ Sembello and  Lauren A. Beloff
Ed O’Donnell (Who is cruising in the warm tropics right now, so jealous) and Susan Weislers both of Samuel’s Seafood. After you hit Maglio’s head on over to Samuel’s for you seafood, it’s across the street.
The Market will be located just down the street from Philadelphia’s
stadiums in the heart of South Philly. The market will be open Monday
through Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday 9
a.m.-3 p.m. with early hours for home Eagles games. For more
information, visit www.magliofoods.com or call 215-4MAGLIO.
Categories
Philadelphia

RUNNING WITH THE SANTAS – I’m Too Hot For This Santa Suit, Sexy Santas, Reindeer, – Philadelphia 2014

The 2014 Running with the Santa’s got off to a good start…

 but quickly turned into walking with the Santas
 and #Selfies with the santas
 and fake running with the santas
 and what the heck is this with the santas

 AND WHAT THE HECK IS THAT WITH THE SANTAS

 Hot Santa

 Bro Santas

I’m too sexy for this Santa Suit
I’m too cold for this Santa suit

Putting away the gift boxes til next year, ready to party

 
In need of cold hard cash
The Running with the Santas benefits
http://www.onetuffgirl.com/

Hotlanta Santas


Categories
Philadelphia

Did Ariana Grande Get A Piggy Back Ride Backstage at Q102’s Jingle Ball?

Ariana Grande slays at Q102’s Jingle Ball 2014 held at Wells Fargo Center o
 Ariana Grande is one of this generations powerhouse singers. She is absolutely one of the most talented singers to hit the airwaves lately, reminded us of a little Mariah Carey and all that comes with it. The nearly overnight success brings with her all that we know of Mariah Carey and the #KnowYourValue diva demands that come with it. She doesn’t walk the red carpet, she has a no minion policy near my dressing room rider request, the days of fan interaction on the street are no longer the norm, #NoSelfie rule is in place, and as for the professional photographers, you can only shoot Ms Grande from stage right. Note the picture above how we are on the right of the stage. Seems she only likes her dimple side shot. Seems she doesn’t like to walk on the ground much either.


When I was running from the stage to the press room to shoot the next singer on the red carpet, I was asked to stay back until the talent got to their location. I never saw the face of the singer, but she had a girlish laugh and I swore it was Ariana Grande.

This is the back of Ariana on stage.

UPDATE: THIS PAST WEEKEND IT WAS REPORTED ON Jezebel, TMZ AND other sites THAT ARIANA GRANDE DOES LIKE TO BE CARRIED. So there you have it!! – Hughe Dillon/PhillyChitChat.com

http://jezebel.com/evidence-of-ariana-grande-being-carried-around-like-a-l-1669792738

http://shoespost.com/ariana-grande-saint-laurent-pumps-white-carried-baby/ 

http://www.tmz.com/videos/0_8rxlnys6/

Categories
Philadelphia

2015 Black Tie Tailgate Gala Sponsor Party at the soon to be open “Olde Bar” at the Old Original Bookbinder’s

I was scheduled to shoot this event last week, but at the last minute a client needed me to shoot a gig for them. Every year I attend the 2015 Philadelphia Auto Show pre-view party. The pre-view party which is held the night before, is a glamorous black tie event that raises money for charity, Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation. At the event you’ll enjoy the latest cars, taste the most delicious food from Jose Garces and Aramark, enjoy dancing and dessert in the Grand Hall. These photos are of the sponsor party, where sponsors of the gala and car show gather to meet and mingle, and taste the food that’s going to be served at gala, sorta like when you get married and you have a tasting with event hall. I was so disaponited to miss it cause I knew it was in the newly acquired Jose Garces space at the Old Original Bookbinders, so I wanted shots. You can kinda see from these photos what the space looks like. These pixs were provided by the Phila Auto Show.

****************

The 2015 Philadelphia Auto Show, produced and
owned by the Automobile Dealers Association of Greater Philadelphia,
rolls into the Pennsylvania Convention Center Jan. 31 to Feb. 8. This
year’s event will have hundreds of vehicles from a variety of worldwide
manufacturers. Highlights include an array of concept, classic, luxury,
pre-production and exotic models. Ticket prices range from $6 to $13.
For more information, visit
www.phillyautoshow.com.

 
2015 Black Tie Tailgate Gala Co-Chairs: (from left) Dr.
William Fox, M.D., Attending Neonatologist and Medial Director of the
Infant Breathing Disorder Center at the Children’s Hospital of
Philadelphia, Dr. Laurie Kilpatrick, Suzanne Franks, Vice
President of JL Freed Honda, Donald Franks, President of JL Freed Honda and Vice President of the Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation 

  Suzanne Franks; Darlene Cantrelle; Glenn Davis; Mary Lynn Alvarino; Don Franks
 Rob Keddie; David Lipson; Jose Garces
 Glenn Davis; Don Franks; Michael Chapman; Jay Haenn; Steve Kelly
 Stuart Sullivan; Dr. Phyllis Dennery; Dr. William Fox
 Don Franks; Dr. Phyllis Dennery; Dr. William Fox
 Don and Joni VanDemark; Kim and Mark Ewing
 Dr. Phyllis Dennery; Dr. David Munson; Dr. Marsha Gerdes; Gregory Mundy
 Darlene Cantrelle; Don and Suzanne Franks
  Michael Chapman; Kevin Mazzucola, ‎Executive Director Auto Dealers Assn of Greater Philly/Auto Dealers CARing For Kids Foundation; Kate Chapman
  Kim Ewing
 Dr. Jeffrey Gerdes; Dr. Marsha Gerdes; Scott and Sandy Adzick
 Vicki Pohl; Marie Haenn; Jacqui Haenn
 Evie Lengetti; Frank Lengetti; Teddy Manero; Tony Manero
 Donald Franks, President of JL Freed Honda and Vice President of the Auto Dealers CARing for Kids Foundation 

Kevin Mazzucola and
Don Franks.
The Olde Bar at The Old Original Bookbinder’s will be opening on New Year’s Eve permanently.  (FooBooz)