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Philadelphia gave summer a full-on pep rally Tuesday night at the 3rd Annual Philly Opener presented by Highmark at the Independence Visitor Center Tuesday evening, May 5.

Guests were greeted by the always energetic Phambassadors, who cheered arrivals into the event, instantly setting the tone for a night filled with Philly pride, music, food, and excitement for the huge year ahead.

The energy inside felt less like a networking event and more like a hometown rally for Philly pride, with DJ Hollywood keeping the party moving while tourism leaders, hospitality insiders, and local cheerleaders celebrated what’s ahead for the city.

The annual event officially kicks off the region’s tourism season and brings together many of the city’s hospitality leaders, tourism insiders, restaurant owners, and cultural organizations, while also welcoming plenty of enthusiastic Philly fans looking to celebrate the start of summer.

Inside, the event blended food tastings, cocktails, entertainment, and tourism enthusiasm as hospitality leaders, local businesses, tourism officials, and city supporters gathered to celebrate the start of Philadelphia’s busy visitor season running from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

DJ Hollywood kept the energy high throughout the evening as guests sampled offerings from local restaurants and vendors while looking ahead to what many are calling one of the biggest years in Philadelphia history. With FIFA World Cup matches, MLB All-Star festivities, and America’s 250th birthday celebrations all on the horizon, the city is preparing for an international spotlight in 2026.

Guests also got a taste of Philly with an international twist as Tokyo-based restaurant Nihonbashi Philly wowed the crowd with a live cooking demonstration of their signature cheesesteak.

The celebration also featured playful signature cocktails themed around Pennsylvania and Philly pride, including the “Keystone Lemonade,” “MVP Margarita,” and the crowd-pleasing “Espress-Opener Martini,” helping keep the atmosphere festive throughout the evening.

Gritty enjoyed the Philadelphia Freedom Band and Color Guard performance during the third annual Philly Opener at the Independence Visitor Center.

While Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro was expected to attend to receive the event’s “Most Valuable Philadelphian” honor, he was unable to make it, with Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis stepping in on his behalf.

“This year, the work carries even greater meaning,” Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. “As we mark the semiquincentennial, our city is welcoming the nation and the world for a once-in-a-generation year of history, culture, sports, tourism, hospitality and civic pride.”

Very cool “award” created specially for Governor Shapiro by artist/jeweler John Wind!!

Artist/Jeweler John Wind, his husband Bill Osman and friend Laura Burkhardt at their booth set up at the third annual Philly Opener at the Independence Visitor Center.

A message from John Wind: Big thanks to @phlvisitorcenter and @kottlovell for the unique opportunity to create this year’s MVP (Most Valuable Philadelphian) Award for Governor Josh Shapiro! It was presented last night at their buzzy, Phantastic Philly Opener. Centered around a vintage Pennsylvania Jim Beam whiskey decanter, it’s embellished with symbols of @governorshapiro both professional and personal, as well as landmarks of our state. We kicked off our Philly250 jewelry collab last night as well, and I got to meet Miss Philadelphia, Swoop, and a few hundred passionate @phl.phambassadors ⭐️🇺🇸❤️

Today is busy. I have three events. Follow along on my Instagram

I saw the Devil Wear’s Prada last night. I liked it. It reminds me of my Manhattan days & nights. In fact on today’s Instagram I am posting about a time, shortly after the last movie, where I photographed Meryl Streep being honored by the Film Society of Lincoln Center in 2008. I sure do miss my red carpet celebrity shooting days. Today it’s too chaotic for me to venture back into it in Manhattan. Social Media killed it. It’s so crowded on the sidewalks now.

Socially yours, HughE

Life Science Cares Philadelphia Packs the The College of Physicians of Philadelphia for a Night of Impact

On April 22, over 300 people from Philadelphia’s life sciences community gathered at The College of Physicians for an evening defined by connection, generosity, and a shared mission to disrupt poverty across the region.

The energy in the room reflected what’s possible when an industry invests directly in the people shaping Philadelphia’s future.

The evening spotlighted the organization’s mission to fight poverty across the region, with powerful reminders that behind every innovation in science is an opportunity to improve lives right here at home.

By night’s end, the event raised roughly $75,000 to support local nonprofits focused on basic needs, education, and workforce pathways.

It was one of those Philadelphia nights where purpose meets influence, and where a room full of changemakers proves this city isn’t just leading in science, it’s leading with heart.

Throughout the evening, guests heard directly from the individuals and partners behind Life Science Cares and its work across three key pillars: Basic Needs, Education, and Opportunity. Nowhere was that impact more tangible than in its partnership with Hopeworks Camden, a powerful example of how investment, mentorship, and opportunity can change the trajectory of lives.

Nyree Oliver’s story brought that impact to life. As a Hopeworks alumna, she represents the kind of transformation these partnerships make possible, moving from instability to opportunity through access to training, support, and meaningful employment. Her remarks grounded the evening in purpose and possibility, reminding everyone in the room what their investment truly supports.

“If you take anything away from tonight, let it be this: when you invest in people like me, you’re not just changing one life, you’re changing generations.”
— Nyree Oliver, Hopeworks Alumna

To learn more about Life Science Cares and how the life sciences community is driving impact across Philadelphia, visit their website and explore ways to get involved.

Thanks Andre Flewellen for photographing this event for ChitChat. Look for additional photos in PhillyStyle Mag

Thanks for stopping by. Socially yours, xoxo HughE

Women Leading the Way: Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia Celebrates Industry Trailblazers

Philadelphia’s culinary scene came out to support the annual Women in Food Reception hosted by Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia at Chatayee Thai at 1227 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107 earlier this month. A night dedicated to the women shaping what, and how, we eat in this city.

The room was filled with an impressive cross-section of chefs, restaurateurs, writers, beverage experts, and hospitality leaders , all connected by one thing: impact. This wasn’t just a networking event, it was a celebration of influence, mentorship, and the future of the industry.

Les Dames d’Escoffier has long been known as a powerhouse network of women in food and hospitality and in Philadelphia, that influence runs deep. From established leaders to rising voices, the organization continues to create space, opportunity, and visibility for women across the industry.

One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of this year’s Heritage Dinner “Outstanding in Her Field” honorees, a recognition that shines a spotlight on women who have made significant contributions to the culinary and hospitality world.

Each year, the Heritage Dinner serves as one of the organization’s signature events — honoring excellence while supporting the next generation through scholarships and mentorship initiatives. It’s where legacy meets opportunity.

Les Dames d’Escoffier has long been known as a powerhouse network of women in food and hospitality — and in Philadelphia, that influence runs deep. From established leaders to rising voices, the organization continues to create space, opportunity, and visibility for women across the industry.

Membership in Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia is as curated as the talent it represents. This is not a sign-up-and-show-up kind of organization. Women who apply are established professionals in the food, beverage, and hospitality world, typically with years of experience and a strong record of leadership.

The process requires sponsorship from current members and a formal review, ensuring that each Dame brings both credibility and a commitment to giving back. It is a working network built on mentorship, philanthropy, and advancing women in the industry, which is exactly why being part of it carries real weight in Philadelphia’s culinary community.

I always enjoy being around these women who show up for one another in an industry that hasn’t always made space for them. What stands out most is their commitment to collaboration over competition, lifting each other while moving the entire field forward. Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia is more than a network, it’s a force for growth, mentorship, and real opportunity. If you’re a woman working in the food space, this is an organization that can expand your thinking, strengthen your business, and connect you to a community that truly invests in your success.

For more information on membership CLICK HERE

Back in January, my friends Rachel and John Paz invited me to something called HistoryTalks and I thought the History Channel, I love the History Channel. Of course I said yes.

HISTORYTalks isn’t a one-off, it’s a touring speaker series produced by History Channel that’s been popping up in major cities over the past few years. The format has stayed pretty consistent, but the tone and lineup shift depending on the moment.

The event was held in honor of America’s 250th anniversary a reminder that, despite our ups and downs, we’re always moving toward a more perfect union. That spirit carried throughout the day, along with a simple message: talk to your neighbors. We have far more in common than what divides us.

For some reason, I had it in my head that this one felt almost top secret, probably because of the level of people involved. So I made a point not to say anything publicly. As the date got closer, it became even more noticeable that no one was talking about it.

Later I learned that many people involved in the production had signed NDAs. I’m not sure what, if anything, guests were told as I was guests of guests, but it explained the silence. I only mentioned it to three people ahead of time, and one of them was my husband.

I told Mike I wanted to get there right when it started with breakfast, and he said it’d be great to beat the crowd, LOL

Last week I was asked if I wanted to shoot the Red Carpet, but I declined. I wanted to enjoy the program. It was the right move, as no one outside of the theater could hear the show. I did score a great celebrity shot during the 30 minute lunch break…more on that later.

I made my way inside to Orchestra Row L, seat 13. Then the curtain lifted and President George W. Bush took the stage, interviewed by his daughter Jenna Bush Hager. Before it began, a message flashed across the screens: no photos, no video, no note-taking. Hmm.

Later, when I read coverage in the The Philadelphia Inquirer, it mentioned the conversation was off the record. As a guest, that wasn’t something I had been aware of at the time. Nothing particularly earth-shattering was said, which makes me think it may have been saved for a future interview or segment with Jenna.

President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden sat down with Jay Shetty. I’ll admit, I was hoping to hear a bit more of Shetty’s philosophy on life, but instead we got a really touching story about how the Bidens met. Joe actually proposed five times before Jill said yes. Her hesitation came from a very real place, she knew his sons had already lost their mother in a tragic car accident, and she wanted to be absolutely certain that she and Joe were the right match so the boys wouldn’t risk losing another mother, this time to divorce.

One of the highlights was Tom Brady and Jason Kelce interviewing each other. There was real mutual respect between them. Best moment, when Brady walked out, he joked that he’s not used to a Philadelphia crowd cheering for him and asked them to boo instead… and they did.

I later learned that conversation was also off the record, though I had already shared it by then. That night, the Pazs hosted a dinner with friends, and I had a chance to chat with one of the show’s producers, who told me it was fine to leave it up since it was already out there. Honestly, it made the whole thing even more interesting, hearing a bit about the behind-the-scenes and how they pulled off a production like this with most of the public having no idea it was even happening.

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At lunchtime, I made my way over to the stage door and was lucky enough to spot Nicole Kidman heading inside. Later, she took the stage and spoke beautifully about women supporting one another in community, the profound influence her mother had on her life, and what she hopes to pass on to her daughters. She also shared that the loss of her mother inspired her interest in becoming a death doula, a deeply personal path that added another layer to her conversation. Hoda Kotb interviewed Nicole Kidman

Everyone was welcomed warmly, and each president received a standing ovation. But when Barack Obama and Michelle Obama came out separately, the crowd reaction hit another level the loudest of the day, and yes, a few people couldn’t resist sneaking photos of Michelle Obama, who was interviewed by 83 year old Doris Kearns Goodwin and spoke mostly about her time as First Lady, her role as a mother, and how intentionally she worked to shield her daughters from the pressures of White House life so they could have as normal an upbringing as possible. You could feel how proud she is of them.

President Barack Obama was interviewed by historian Jon Meacham.

When Barack Obama spoke about America moving toward “a more perfect union,” he wasn’t suggesting perfection, but progress. For someone like Obama, looks like a country that keeps expanding opportunity, where access to education, healthcare, and economic mobility isn’t uneven. It’s a democracy where participation is broader and more representative, institutions are trusted and functioning, and disagreement doesn’t erode respect for one another. It also points to a continued effort to reckon with the country’s history honestly, while still believing in its ability to improve. In his framing, it’s less about arriving at a final destination and more about the ongoing work of becoming better, together. (We later learned that Obama headed to NYC for an appearance with Mayor Zohran Mamdani after his 1pm interview)

When Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton took the stage with their longtime friend Ted Danson, the tone shifted into something more personal and reflective. It didn’t feel like a political talk, it felt like a conversation between people who have lived through decades of public life and still choose to stay engaged. They spoke about resilience, about continuing to show up through criticism and change, and about their belief in the country’s institutions, even when tested. There were also moments that felt more intimate, stories about their partnership and life after the White House – walks, going to the movies, Hillary trying to get Bill to take better care of himself, which gave the whole exchange a relaxed, human feel. At times they held hands, and always looked at each other with admiration.

It really fit the spirit of the day, less about politics, more about experience, endurance, and where we go from here.

OK I snuck a few photos….at the end of segments, I was in good company with folks nearby who also wanted to remember….

She’s done Hillary Clinton, Kellyanne Conway, Rudy Giuliani, Sean Spicer, Jeff Sessions, Angela Merkel, Elizabeth Warren, and lots more. Jost just had his first outing, as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. “I’m probably 200 behind you.”

And finally I am going to wrap this day up with the final speaker, although I did skip a few: Garth Brooks, when he took the stage, he shared a thought that really stayed with me, comparing music to a democracy. Not in a political way, but in the sense that it belongs to everyone. He talked about how the audience has just as much of a role as the performer, how songs take on new life depending on who’s listening, and how, in those moments, everyone in the room is part of the same experience. It was a simple idea, but powerful, especially in a room that had spent the day talking about connection, reminding us that sometimes the strongest common ground is something as universal as a song. He sang a few covers connecting each generation ending with a beautiful cover of Perfect by Ed Sheeran.

Thank you to the History Channel, to Comcast, and to my longtime friends John and Rachel Paz for such an incredible experience. I later learned that while portions were taped for television, the event itself was really designed as a series of in-person, live conversations with leaders and history makers. Only select moments from the six-hour program were recorded, so there’s hope that some of it may eventually see the light of day. I know that Jenna Bush did back stage interviews which will be broadcasted on the Today Show Monday.

WOW what an experience…. socially yours, xoxo HughE

St. Joe’s Prep Fashion Show Celebrates 70 Years in Style at The Union League

The 70th Annual St. Joe’s Prep Fashion Show, hosted by the Prep Mothers’ Club, returned in full force on Sunday, March 22, transforming the elegant rooms of the The Union League of Philadelphia into a runway filled with tradition, style, and community spirit.

More than 400 women from across the Philadelphia region gathered for an afternoon of fashion, friendship, and philanthropy. The event sold out in less than two days, a testament to its enduring popularity and deep roots within the Prep community.

Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, lunch, and cocktails while taking in the latest looks from Skirt, bringing a modern edge to this long-standing tradition.

Meanwhile, over 100 St. Joe’s Prep seniors took to the runway in classic tuxedos, representing Iacobucci Formal Wear, Rudi’s Formal Wear, and Tony Laguda Formal Wear.

The seniors also played key roles behind the scenes, serving as ticket sellers and greeters, making the event a meaningful final appearance before graduation.

Beyond the fashion, the event serves as one of the Mothers’ Club’s primary fundraisers. Proceeds support a wide range of service initiatives throughout the year, benefiting both the school and the surrounding community. Importantly, funds also provide critical tuition assistance and emergency support for families facing unexpected challenges, ensuring students can continue their education without interruption.

Leading the charge was Fashion Show Committee Co-Chair Ashlee Hollis, who, along with her team at Helm Creative Studio, produced an afternoon that balanced sophistication with heartfelt purpose.

At its core, the St. Joe’s Prep Mothers’ Club remains committed to fostering connection among mothers through spiritual, cultural, and charitable efforts. After 70 years, the Fashion Show continues to be a shining example of that mission in action—bringing people together, celebrating students, and giving back in a meaningful way.

For more information, visit sjprep.org

Norwegian Cruise Line Details Temporary Plan for Philadelphia Departures, with the first cruise just days away.

I was genuinely excited when Norwegian Cruise Line announced it would begin sailing out of Philadelphia.

As a seasoned cruiser, I’ve gotten used to driving to the New York area or flying south just to get on a ship. It’s always been part of the process.

Philadelphia officially entered the cruise conversation in a big way in 2024, when Norwegian Cruise Line announced the city would become a homeport for the first time in its history.

The news positioned Philly as a new player in the Northeast cruise market, with sailings planned out of PhilaPort and a brand new terminal in development along the Delaware River.

City leaders and tourism officials framed the move as a major win ahead of the America 250 celebration, with expectations that cruise passengers would bring new energy and spending into local hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

At the time, the plan was simple. By 2026, Philadelphia would welcome its first passengers at a fully operational cruise terminal, marking a new chapter for the city’s waterfront.

Now, as that first sailing approaches, the vision is still intact. It is just arriving with a few delays along the way, because NCL reports the cruise port is not built yet, delayed because of weather woes. When I first read that on my FB Page about Philadelphia cruises I was worried my August Cruise would not happen…but NCL sent an email to those who have booked, and it was posted on the FB page, that

Norwegian Cruise Line will use a nearby hotel as a temporary check-in hub for its new Philadelphia sailings.

Passengers will be transported by shuttle to and from the Clarion Hotel near the airport for both embarkation and disembarkation, as construction delays at PhilaPort have postponed the opening of the city’s new cruise terminal.

The new process begins with Norwegian Jewel’s first Philadelphia departure on April 16.

The Jewel FB Page.

Who wants to join us?

Philadelphia Youth Orchestra Gala Hits a High Note with an Evening of Music, Mentorship, and Mission

The Philadelphia Youth Orchestra struck all the right chords last week at its annual gala. The PYO Music Institute hosted its 86th Anniversary Gala at the Union League of Philadelphia, celebrating nearly a century of musical excellence, education, and community impact while bringing together supporters, alumni, and rising stars for a night that highlighted both artistry and opportunity.

Held in a room filled with civic leaders, arts patrons, and proud families, the evening showcased exactly why PYO continues to be one of the region’s most respected arts education programs.

The organization, which provides tuition-free and low-cost music education to talented young musicians, has long been a pipeline for future performers, educators, and leaders.

The festivities began with a lively cocktail reception featuring a live art show and sale presented by Studio Incamminati. Guests browsed and bid on fine works while mingling in support of PYO’s mission.

Beyond the performances, the gala underscored PYO’s broader mission. Through mentorship, rigorous training, and access to world-class instruction, these students are not only mastering their instruments, they are building confidence, discipline, and a sense of community that extends far beyond the stage.

The crowd reflected a who’s who of Philadelphia’s philanthropic and cultural circles, all there to support the next generation of artists. Conversations throughout the night centered on impact, from scholarships to outreach programs that ensure music education reaches students across the region regardless of background

Thank you: Maestro Louis Scaglione has dedicated nearly 30 years to honing his talents as a musician, educator, conductor, and executive leader. His career spans a broad range of experience in orchestral, choral, and operatic works, alongside a strong background in education and arts administration. Recognized nationally, he is highly regarded throughout the Delaware Valley for his professionalism and leadership. Check out the PYO schedule, plus support this wonderful organization.

Thanks to Andre Flewellen for covering the PYO Gala for me this year. The first time in a decade I missed it.

Also be sure to watch the 30th Anniversary of Fox 29 tonight at 6:30pm, I’ll be shooting the red carpet. Then watch the show at 7PM. A good time will be had!

Socially yours, xo HughE

I used to write a column for Philly Mag called One Shots—a single standout photo of the week. These days, I’m capturing one standout shot every day. So let’s switch it up: Five for Friday—the five hottest photos of the week.

Philadelphia250, a program of the Philadelphia Visitor Center in partnership with the City of Philadelphia, is taking America’s 250th birthday straight to the neighborhoods with the Block Party Bonanza.

Presented by Comcast NBCUniversal, this citywide initiative is designed to make sure every Philadelphian can take part in the semiquincentennial celebration. Running all summer, it blends Philly’s love of community gatherings with a focus on civic pride, bringing a fresh spin to one of the city’s most beloved traditions, the block party. Thanks to Jefferson Health, and Tiffany Tavares for supporting the efforts.

Mayor Cherelle Parker reminded us “ain’t no party like a #Philly Block Party!” as she, and the amazing Kathryn Ott Lovell, kicked off the Block Party Bonanza! press conference with an incredibly #Philly themed celebration!

Tonight I will be covering the Red Cross Ball, I could only hope it will be as exciting as well I photographed Kate Gosselin there, who was not excited that I got the first photo of her boyfriend and former bodyguard, Steve Neild and she holding hands. I mean geez it was in public. I did go on Fox29’s Good Day and chit chat about the whole thing. Happy 30th Anniversary of Fox29’s Good Day… I’ve been with them for 15 years. See you on April 1 when we celebrate on air.

The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia Paradigm Award brought together Philadelphia’s business leaders for an afternoon celebrating innovation, impact, and leadership, with support from Independence Blue Cross, Exelon, and Jefferson Health

Congratulations to honoree Ellen G. Cooper, Chairman, President, and CEO of Lincoln Financial, whose leadership continues to shape both the industry and the region. At the luncheon several you women were recognized as outstanding scholarship honorees, highlighting the next generation of talent driving Philadelphia forward.

Nearly how I want the Five for Five to look like. I just realized I am pressed for time. Have an awesome weekend. See you at No Kings March, say Hi Lets get a Selfie

Hi to the news subscribers!!

Socially yours xoxo HughE