Category: Philadelphia

The Third Annual Bellevue Gets Engaged. I’ve gone to all of them, and it’s always a great time. Take your mom, go with a girlfriend, and make plans for your dream wedding.Tickets are only $50 , for a fantastic day of making dreams come true. It’s the bridal event of the season. Cocktails, champagne and elegant hor d’oeuvres. Guests will receive a fabulous goody bag and more! I’m giving away a pair of tickets. Just tell me your engagement story and I’ll enter you into the contest. Here’s my email buzz@phillychitchat.com I’ll pick a winner on Tuesday at 5PM. Thanks

Good morning
Bear with me I had a late night.

Hop Sing Laundromat is on the tip of our tongue ready to open
Lee is everyone’s friend by now. We’ve been all rooting for the opening of his new bar, which I always joke with him is like Willy Wonka’s Factory. There’s so much to look at, and it’s cloaked in secrecy and surprises. Even after he opens it, sometime in this century, you’ll notice new sights and sounds, cause if you know Lee he always has something up his sleeve to keep his guests intrigued. I stopped by yesterday to see the progress and noticed this interesting ladder. “It’s for the bar back” Lee told me. He can climb to any shelf and pull down the desired bottle; and it’s on a sliding system (that’s my word by the way for lack of a thought in my head today.) The bar back can slide the ladder from one side to the other cherry picking bottles off the shelf. He then puts it in a metal slide which hugs the ladder. The slide has felt like material that will dust the bottle as it drops into the bag at the bottom. Right before it drops it goes through a brush that finishes off the dusting before the bottle is served. Of course the bartender will give it a once over too. There’s lots of other nooks and crannies that pertain to the bar, like the spit toon looking bowl, but it’s not a spit toon.

Stopped by Reading Terminal to check out my food selections for Saturday night. It’s like when you win a shopping spree and you want to see where all the Polo Shirts are so you can go there first. Saturday Night is the Valentine to the Market
for $125 you can eat from any of the vendors, but the Amish, dance, drink, and have the run of the place. It’s a lot of fun I covered it last year too. Mike actually goes with me, so that says a lot.

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

Last night was Philly Cooks 2012.
DANIEL REINHERZ and KYW’s HADAS KUZNITS . Hadas was a judge, but had to run out afterwards to her photography class.
Dave Maser, Allison Young, VP of Public Engagement at the Constitution Center and Jenine and David Neff, Neff PR
Eater’s Hottest Chef of 2012, Jason Cichonski (Ela) getting a smooch from his biggest fan Nicole with Ilana Waber and Sam “is that an IPhone in your Pocket” Shoap. Check out my full column in Philly Mag coverage of the event HERE

Last night at the Independence Seaport Museum Immaculata University hosted a “Storm The Court” Party to celebrate the release of the Mighty Macs DVD after it’s first run in the theater. (You might recall the movie screening party I covered for Philly Mag.) Cashman & Associates always have something unique at the parties they orchestrate. So funny they had a bar set up in the elevator. It was Fat Tuesday so there were plenty of beads on hand.
No matter who was on the red carpet, and there was plenty of local star power
or how crowded the place was All eyes seemed to be on friends Top Chefs – Jennifer Carroll and Tony Luke, who looked smashing. Lately, Jen has been in high demand making personal appearances around the country, while making plans for her new restaurant Concrete Blond; and Tony Luke, the purveyor of the delicious pork sandwich, has been opening restaurants internationally and losing half his body weight in the process. He’s a real inspiration. Yesterday someone was shopping around that these two were an item, and although they seem close, it’s no “Harry Met Sally” as of now for these two sexy singles.
The Championship Trophies
Christina Pellegrini, Philly Style Magazine, Erin Humphrey and Meredith Fertig
Actress Megan Sabla, Stephen McCarthy and Jason Starkman.
Lauren O’Dorisio and John Colabelli, Philadelphia Style Magazine Publisher
The CW On Air Talent out and about: Kharisma McIlwaine and Matthew Nadu. Last week Matt was surfing with the locals at sunrise in Costa Rica. “Heaven on earth” he says.
Bob Cole, Immaculata University VP of Communications, addressing the guests with the Mighty Macs Director Tim Chambers looking on.
Chuck Kerrigan, Sr. Ann Heath, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Associate Professor of Mathematics and Jenni Sauer, Vice President for Finance and Administration at Immaculata University
The Lovelies: Vasiliki Tsiouris, Co-Owner Opa Restaurant , Erin Como, Maria Papadakis and Marisa Magnatta, WMMR’s Preston & Steve Show. Friday is Erin’s last day with NBC10. She has a few opportunities she’s going to pursue, but is really just going to see what’s out there for the next chapter in her life.
These two ladies were in the film – Karen Matweychuk, Director of the Annual Fund at Immaculata University and Mary Ann Severance. Mary Ann told me she practices Reverse Lent, for the next 40 days she’s gonna let go and get wild.
Ron “Fresh” Mack was in the house. We were discussing the new Nikon camera that comes out next month. We both want it, but it costs more than my first car.
Catering was by Brulee Catering (Which is owned by GuestCounts Hospitality Group with business partners Barry Gutin and Larry Cohen), which reminds me I stopped by their new restaurant Square Peg, at the old Marathon 10th & Walnut spot, the other night (Chef Matt Levin will be helming the kitchen), well actually I stopped by to shoot this through the window. They should be opening up soon.
Tracy Davidson NBC10 reporter, rocking it with a pearl belt with Denise Conway-Crawford, was a member of the Mighty Macs
Ali Frick and NBC10 weather guy Dave Warren. We discovered that we all love monopoly and are going to get together and play a marathon game. Who else is up for it?
Paul Aspan, Associate Producer Comcast Sportsnet and Comcast SportsNet: Lisa Hillary
Elizabeth Bayou, Christopher Scott Grimaldi, (Check out his new novel “Adult World”), Crystal Wenrick and Jason Long, Key Account Manager for Pennsylvania at The Edrington Group
Lorraine Hawk and Victoria Boaz with Philly Daily News fashion “Street Style” photographer Reuben “Big Rube” Harley

For a late nite bite, and you wouldn’t believe how are it is to find a restaurant open after 10PM on Fat Tuesday no less. A few of us stopped by Revolution House at 2nd & Market. They have a new menu items, including this delicious cannolli stuffed with crab meat. Yummy. Hey what are you doing on Sunday. Free Oscar Party at the Ritz Carlton. Nibbles and toast with Korbel

I love Tea at a fancy hotel, and fashion show to boot in a quiet setting without the loud booming from the box, is a joy. That is where I found myself this past weekend with my bud Ilana Waber, Gloss PR
Philly dress designer Sarah van Aken ( SA VA) had a tea party to show off her Spring 2012 Collection with Philadelphia’s most discerning women during a sit down tea at Chez Colette inside the Sofitel Hotel Phila 120 S. 17th Street. The event was sponsored by Tiffany & Co. (note the robins egg color of drinks.) (Tickets $50)
Hosted by style expert Liliana Vazquez of Cheap Chicas and the Nate Berkus Show!!! (Sadly Nate was cancelled, I love that show. But Liliana tells me that she will be on a new show called “Threads”, which will be shown on NBC’s Non-Stop in NYC, and has a potential to be syndicated nationwide.) The SA VA Spring Preview was an exclusive fashion event that will give a sneak peak of the SA VA Spring 2012 collection.
Shoes from Nine West at Shops at Liberty Place
Spotted in the crowd was Michelle Shannon from the Center City District
Sherrie Cole, executive director of Career Wardrobe and Heather Bennett enjoy the show. Career Wardrobe had a similar awesome event last October at the Rittenhouse Hotel but with cute kids, hats and adults. (I covered it in my Philly Mag column) Also important to note: Thursday, June 7, 2012 5:30pm – 9:00pm. The Hyatt at the Bellevue 200 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia. The Career Wardrobe’s annual cocktail reception.
Carol Fritz with Julie Becker and Kim Blaschak
Colette de Chalus Lee, Gwendolyn Johnson, and Rashada Siojo pick from the bite–size desserts that were placed next to the tea sandwiches at each table
I see bright colors and pop up collars are on the menu for spring. Also spotted in the room Margaret Hughes, City Reps Office, Jen Laird, Julie Yoon, Tara Sosa and Kate Hudson
I think Chez Colette has found it’s calling. It’s a nice space for afternoon tea. Usually it’s just open for hotel guests for breakfast as lunch and dinner is served in the bar/restaurant area Liberte
Shoes from Nine West at Shops at Liberty Place
Sarah explains her new spring line to Philly Mag’s fashionista Emily Goulet, who was with friends Caroline Tiger and Carly Walko
Michele Waters of the Sofitel Philadelphia, Michelle Shannon, Sarah van Aken, Liliana Vazquez (Check her out on the Today Show with Kathi Lee & Hoda. Tiffany McCauley, Tiffany & Co. and Nicole Paloux, Red Balloons Public Relations (she represents Sofitel) SA VA is having a spectacular $15 sale today.

Last week the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation held its annual Black History Month Philly 360° cocktail party at Tendenza in Northern Liberties
Durrell Bottoms, Sigma Sound, Tracy Washinsky, Cheldin Barlatt Rumer, i-g creative and Michelle Miller, Sigma Sound.

On Saturday night Sigma Sound had a blow out party in support of Black Thought‘s “Let’s Move it Philly” fundraiser for the GrassRoots Community Foundation! “the ROOTS BLACK THOUGHT & QUESTLOVE w/DICE RAW LIVE FROM SIGMA SOUND!!!

SigmaSound: Dilemma & Friends Experience 2/25 @Sigmasound Live @JadeAlston, @MrTylerJames, @ChillMoody, @LaurinDarling Get your tix http://t.co/D2v6akH6Alicia Burgos, Tayib Smith and Jeanette Lloyd enjoy the night. Check out the rest of theparty pictures and story at Philly Mag in the Philly Post section under The Scene; HughE Dillon

In 2004, Cameron Diaz and Toni Collette filmed Philly author Jennifer Weiner’s bestseller “In Her Shoes” in Philadelphia, and she’s come back a few times but not to do a movie. In 2004 I got this shot of Cameron Diaz filming “In Her Shoes” on Locust Street near 20th. If you look closely Cameron is wearing winter wear even though it was about 75F out.
This past weekend she was in town again. I first heard about it from:
@MarioLopezExtra In Philly! Cameron Diaz was sitting next to me on my flight..Always seem to sit next to someone interesting! She’s very sweet.. Going to AC (Mario was at Harrah’s Pool After Dark last night.) Sweet my ass, Cameron is one of those I play a nice girl on film (ie Reese & Jen Aniston), but I can be a bitch to fans and photographers. I’ve photographed her a handful of times and it’s always been a work out to get a good shot. Above she leaves Good Morning America, below she’s leaving the MTV studios. She arrived in Philly yesterday to probably to attend the GlobalDESIGN, the International Showcase of Exceptional Jewelers, at the Convention Center like she did last year during this same period.
She stayed at the Ritz-Carlton on Broad Street. Last night she went to Alma de Cuba (1623 Walnut) with her mom, Billie Diaz an import / export agent . They then walked back to their hotel along Walnut Street, so if you think you saw her you did.Today they headed to brunch at MidTown Continental with 8 people. That girl is not afraid to fly, in less than 24 hrs she is back on a plane and outta her. She’s at the PHL right now to catch a 1:45PM flight.
I did get a text that a guy asked if his 9 year old daughter could pose with her for a photo and she said no. That’s the Cameron Diaz I know. Oh wait she was nice to this girl. I guess if you;re not asking for a photo or autograph she’s decent.
Danielle Millett @millettdanielle Just interacted with Cameron Diaz at the Philly airport. She is so nice!

Ugh. So bummer I can’t find the notebook for this event (I’m in the middle of re-organizing my desk and it is lost among the mess). Now I know I have it cause the same night I went to the Top of the Tower event, and I wrote that on Tuesday. Ugh, i could have completely skipped over this event, but I think the message is important and that is why I am bringing it to you… The Heart Ball brought out the ball gowns and tuxedos Saturday Night at the Marriott Downtown in Center City.Aleta Rupert Executive Director, Vice President of Development at American Heart Association and James Eisenhower, The American Heart Association’s Board of Directors. The Heart Ball celebrates: our work and mission; our donors and volunteers; and – most important – the lives saved and improved because of everyone’s efforts.
Judge Rene Cartwright-Hughes, chief at Red Cross, Phila and Shirleen Alicott, 6ABC news anchor was MC for the nights event. The 2012 Heart of Philadelphia Honoree’s were Daniel J. Hliferty, President and CEO of Independence Blue Cross, and the 2012 Edward S. Cooper, M.D. Honoree was Howard H. Weitz, M.D., Jefferson University Hospitals.
adorable
Last year their mother won the bid on the trip to Africa. It was for 5 days/4 nights. The family has extended it to 2 weeks and they are going this summer. This year it went for $5,500
African Game Preserve: Spend an unforgettable 5 days/4 nights on safari in the exclusive Ongava Game Reserve located next to Etosha National Park in Namibia. The package allows the winners to choose between staying at Ongava Tented Camp or Ongava Lodge. A combination of both properties is also possible. Both tented and lodge accommodations include the “creature” comforts of private baths, luxury suites, and cooling units. All with fabulous views looking out at the preserve and waterholes. Meals are served either in the main dining room under thatch with a view, or on the dining deck under the stars.
So cute. I spoke to someone who won this last year and they said it was FABULOUS. Which is probably why it goes for a pretty penny.
Tuscan Country Villa: In the heart of Tuscany lies a beautiful, enchanting country villa with 5 cozy bedrooms. Enjoy swimming in the sunny pool, playing tennis on the private court, or simply strolling the 40 picturesque acres surrounding the house-sleeps 10. Perfectly situated for day trips to Florence, Sienna or Pisa. Stay in touch with good telephone lines and internet access. Sensational cook and charming tennis instructor available for hire. Dollars Raised: $20,000
Oh I’m so sad I can’t find this booklet, but you know it has to be at least two years since this has happened. I think I have too many booklets. Some need to be retired. Mrs. Philadelphia, on left, tells me that the Mrs Pennsylvania contest is coming up in the next few weeks and will be held in Atlantic City. I found that odd since, but then she told me they jointly hold the Mrs. New Jersey contest at the same time and place. Interesting.
Christina and John Saler. So glad to run into them. John was the co-chair of the Academy Ball and I just couldn’t find them that night. I always thought the co-chair appeared on stage at some point. John tells me he was on stage, he gave Diana Krall her flowers. I found the pix but it wasn’t really a good angle of John, but he was on stage and he made her laugh. It was cute.
Best dressed couple. She has the most beautiful ginger hair. The Heart Association has great nutritional tips.
I loved this dress. These two were the only peeps I shot that didn’t have a stitch of red on them, but I really enjoyed her dress. Sorry for the abbreviated post, it really is driving me crazy where I put the notebook that contains this event.
******************
Thanks to my sponsors who keep me clothed in those nice black outfits you see me sporting. Make this weekend special, pick up some new threads & new shoes at the Shops of Liberty Place, rent a limo to take you to dinner at Del Frisco’s while enjoying a glass of Korbel. nibble on the best chocolates from Teuchsers Philadelphia at the Bellevue. Then head over to Philly’s favorite playground Recess for some late night dancing. For your next party think about hiring a band or DJ from CTO Entertainment be sure to stop by the Cool Pix Photo Booth. Stop off at your full service attorney’s office Zarwin Baum before you take the plunge. On Monday hit the gym, The Sporting Club, and call The Lab for marketing advice. Pick up your tickets for Philly’s most outrageously fun cake decorating contest, where you get to eat as much wedding cake as possible & bring some home. Let Them Eat Cake. on April 2nd. I suggest you bring your own container. Have a great weekend.

Earlier this month the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Man & Woman of the Year Kick Off at Fleming’s Steak House & Wine Bar in Radnor Township. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Man & Woman of the Year (MWOY) campaign is a fundraising competition in communities across the U.S. in which participants vie for the title of Man or Woman of the Year. They raise funds for blood cancer research in honor of local children who are blood cancer survivors, the Boy & Girl of the Year. The titles are awarded to the men and women in each community who raise the most funds during the ten-week campaign; the top local fundraisers in the country also win the national titles. Above – Anthony Falco (left), is competing for the title of Man of the Year. With his sons AJ and Jake, and wife Keli.
Michael Walsh (second right) is running in the campaign in honor of his brother was his a blood cancer survivor. With his wife Lauren (left), son Michael, and younger sister Francesca Walsh (right).
15 year old Ryan Clark (second left) is a candidate for the campaign. With him his is father John Clark (left), younger brother Brendan Clark (second right), and mother Cindy Clark (right)
Funny man Matt Krueger, is one of the candidates for the Man of the Year. He took time to take a photo with Bryn Henry.
Joell Alter is 2011 Man of the Year.
Sarah Lindenmuth (left), Director of Light The Night, Ellen McGolderick (second left), Betsy Shoustal (second right), and Maida R. Milone (right), Executive Director of the Eastern PA Chapter.
Group photo of all the candidates.
Back Row: Gary Rathsmill and Rob Shangraw
Middle Row: Bridget McMullin, Matt Krueger, Anthony Falco, Michael Walsh,
Megan Miller, and Brian Klick
Front Row: Bryn Henry, Andrew Clark, and Ryan Clark
Not pictured: Denise McQuillan and Zach Capetola

Events Coming Up:

Tonight:

Actor Kevin Bacon makes an appearance in Philadelphia for the Kimmel Center 10th Anniversary special event, Clips and Conversation with Kevin Bacon, on Wednesday, February 15, 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Perelman Theater. Noted Philadelphia film critic Carrie Rickey hosts Clips and Conversation with Kevin Bacon, and will reflect on the Philadelphia native’s film and theater career with a montage of movie clips and a candid discussion with the actor.
$20 – 7:30PM Tixs

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

Tonight: Channeling Your Inner Sport: Athlete to Executive; 5:30PM – 7:30PM
WHO: Zarwin, Baum, DeVito, Kaplan, Schaer & Toddy, P.C.; Center City Proprietors; Comcast Network’s Arthur Fennell; Peter A. Luukko, President & Chief Operating Officer, Comcast-Spectacor and Chairman, Global Spectrum; Don Saleski, Executive Vice President at PRN Professional Receivable Network; John S. Spagnola, Managing Director at The PFM Group; Reginald W. Wilkes, Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor, The Wilkes Group
Cost: Free for guests of Zarwin, Baum, DeVito, Kaplan, Schaer, Toddy, P.C.

RSVP by Noon: mandes@zarwin.com
*******************
Saturday:
The Greater Philadelphia Outdoor Sportshow returns to the EXPO Center at Oaks February 16-19! Find gear for hunting, fishing, boating and camping from hundreds of exhibitors. Strengthen your technique by attending on-going seminars from renowned fishing and hunting experts. INFO: sportshows.com

*******************
Saturday Night: 8PM
Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter, co-founder and lead MC of the legendary group, the Roots, will host “Let’s Move it Philly!” a charity concert party to raise funds for Black Thought’s GrassROOTS Community Foundation. “Let’s Move It!” Philadelphia is the first step in a 13 city initiative that will address childhood obesity in the African American community. Guests will party to the sounds of Rich Medina, DJ Diamond Kuts, Nikki Jean, Money Making Jam Boys, Questlove, and Black Thought of the LEGENDARY Roots Crew. www.grassrootscharityconcert.eventbrite.com.
**************
3/4/12 – The Bellevue Gets Engaged 1PM $50
Sip signature cocktails and enjoy hors d’oeuvres while meeting with Philadelphia’s most elite merchants in the bridal industry.

****************
The other day I covered the Brad Lidge signing at the Shops of Liberty Place. A pix appeared in my philly mag column here. What was interesting is right after you had your item signed, the Man Cave (Sporting Cave) had folks right there authenticating your newly signed item. That was pretty cool.

Speaking of Shops at Liberty Place, at 16th & Market. There’s a Swarovski Crystal Store there. I noticed in the old Democratic office building on the 1500 Block of Walnut, they’re going to open another store there in the Spring. It’s across from Tiffany’s & Co.
**********************

Valentine to the Market Gala Fundraiser is 2/25/12

Show your love for the Reading Terminal Market! Join us for an evening of dancing, food & drink, and entertainment to celebrate the Market?s 120th birthday. Proceeds benefit the Reading Terminal Market Preservation Fund and will be used to preserve and enhance the historic Reading Terminal Market for future generations. For tickets and more information please visit PartyTicketsOnline.com/valentine.
On Valentine’s Day, Judge Minhart married several Philadelphia couples in the Reading Terminal Market’s Center Court seating area.
In the evening Mike and I headed over to Il-Portico, 1519 Walnut Street for a V-Day dinner. I hadn’t been there for about 4 years, and forgot how charming it was with it’s luxurious decorations. I love the chairs. Reminds me of my Italian mom’s living room.
I had the caprese salad and lamb. Delicious. Mike had the Veal Shank which he loved. It was an amazing deal with a price fixed menu at $100 for two for a three course dinner. There’s a popular dance club on the 3rd floor, Club Adesso, who has quite a following on Saturday nights. Look for it to be open on other nights with specials like Latin night, Jazz night, GLBT & Baby Boomer night (You know I’ve been fighting for a night like that. I wanna hear some early Madonna, Bee Gees and music that reminds me of Memories of Margate.)
We ran into our friends Chip & Henry. They’re coming up on their 20th Anniversary together. They’re married in about 2 states.
George & Garden Logan. They’re having a baby in June. Congratulations. They’re the 2nd pregnancy I heard about today. This morning on Good Day Philly

Congratulations to Good Day Philadelphia’s co-anchor Sheinelle Jones (hubby Uche Ojeh) announced that she was having twins this summer. They have a son Kayin, 2