On May 5th Ronald McDonald House of Southern Jerseyhosted Wine Women & Shoes FunRaiser. The night began with each guest receiving a glass of champagne as they arrive.
Jim Donovan, CBSPhilly and Jennifer French. CEO & President Ronald McDonald House Southern New Jersey
There was a Market Place for guests to shop, silent auction and raffle prizes, stations of appetizers and passed hors d’oeuvre.
The concept of Wine Women & Shoes is the brainchild of Napa Valley vintner, Elaine Honig, concieved about 2 decades ago. While chatting with a girlfriend about the growing popularity of wine and food pairing events, they jokingly said, “wine and shoe pairings would be a lot more fun!” And they were right. WW&S events are now in 50 cities across the country, and they have raised more than $22,000,000 for women and children’s causes.
Wine Women & Shoes fundraisers create an opportunity for partnerships between charities, wineries, shoe and accessory retailers, corporate sponsors and women in the community. They are so much fun.
Patricia Hundley, Sweet Lorraine and Debbie Samuels
Alayne Berkowitz, Pam Steele, Jodi Hassman, and Lynn Roseman
Thanks to Seagrass Boutique and Caroline’s Fashion Luxuries for dressing the models
Then there is the very popular “Key to the Closet”
They sold 100 – $100 keys to win what is in the closet. Each person that purchases a key will be given a blinky ring to wear through out the night. Guests try out their key to win fabulous prizes with values up to $5,000.
Thanks to everyone who came out to enjoy the event, and raise critical funds for the Ronald McDonald House of South Jersey. Thanks to Andre Flewellen who photographed this event for PCC.
Hello PhillyChitChaters. Hope you are well. Social Season is booming, so many event, people are out and about and sooo happy. Let’s see what is happening at PCC’s client Rivers Casino. I’ll always love it for it’s proximity to Center City, and free parking garage with an epic view of Philly’s skyline.
When I want a late night bite or Rita’s Water Ice I head there. Mian Chinese restaurant is open every night til Midnight, and on Friday and Saturday’s til 2am. Rita’s til 9PM daily.
Still looking for a spot to watch the games tonight, look no further than Rivers Casino Sportsbook. The 5,700-square-foot space features a luxury viewing area with a massive HD video wall capable of showing more than a dozen games at once, comfortable seating and an electrifying game-day atmosphere. The sportsbook also includes 33 self-service betting kiosks and six betting windows. NBC Sports Philadelphia is now broadcasting live from the BetRivers Sportsbook Podcast Booth!
Coming to Rivers Casino Event Center Next Week: Sal “The Voice” Valentinetti, Heidi Klum’s unforgettable 2016 Golden Buzzer recipient and finalist of America’s Got Talent, is an Italian-American crooner known best for his flawless vocals, larger than life personality, and his heart of gold. There are still tickets left to re live the magic of O’l Blue Eyes. HERE
Tower of Power is a legendary American funk and soul band that formed in Oakland, California in 1968. They are known for their distinctive horn section, soulful vocals, and tight rhythms. The group’s sound is a fusion of various musical genres, including R&B, funk, jazz, and rock. Perfect way to kick off the Memorial Day Weekend. Tickets Here.
ABOUT RIVERS CASINO PHILADELPHIA Located along the Delaware River waterfront in Fishtown, Rivers Casino Philadelphia features 1,535 slots, 81 table games, 54 hybrid gaming seats, a 28-table poker room and a designated sportsbook area for live sports betting. The casino offers an array of distinctive restaurants and bars — among them are Mian and Jack’s Bar + Grill — riverfront views, live performances in The Event Center, free parking, and daily promotions and giveaways. For additional information and current offerings, please visit RiversCasino.com/Philadelphia.
Social Season is in full swing… thanks for bearing with me as I share stories on my media outlets as well as here on the Blog. Last week…. On April 27, 2023, Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry held its 160th Anniversary Gala at The Logan in Center City Philadelphia.
Temple Provost Gregory Mandel, City Representative Sheila Hess, Temple Dental Dean Amid Ismail and Temple Dental Board of Visitors Chair Joe Roberts.
An amazing time was held by all! Hundreds of alumni, faculty, friends and supporters of the school were present when Philadelphia City Representative Sheila Hess presented a Mayoral Tribute to Dean Amid Ismail for Temple Dental’s dedication to the people of our great city.
Russell Williamson, Kimberly Smith and Patrick Monaghan
Each year, over 30,000 people receive dental care at Temple Dental, making it one of the region’s largest providers of community healthcare.
It was a beautiful spring evening with temperatures in the 70s. The Logan Hotel has a nice patio where guests enjoyed cocktails and lite bites while catching up with old school mates. Everyone had perfect teeth.
Cynthia Russell and Roosevelt Allen, Jr.
Sephreh Saccidi, (1991) Joseph Mirtaj (1994) and Trichelle
Miriam Silverman, Ron Silverman (1972) and Mary Burke
Ellen Sisti and April Mayer (Go Sixers!!)
Temple Dental was founded in 1863 with 11 students. Today there are more than 7,000 graduates around the globe. https://dentistry.temple.edu/.
David Yager President of the University of the Arts, David Searles, Jacobswyper Architects, Dan B and Stacey Yager
The University of the Arts Performance Unleashed fundraiser was a success and over $400,000 was raised for student scholarships.
The evening began with a cocktail hour in their newly renovated Student Center. Then guests headed upstairs to the auditorium for dinner, performances, an awards presentation then a live scholarship auction. Proceeds from the event will support and enhance the student experience, where a $100,000 was raised in the auction live as we sat there. It was exciting and gratifying that UArts has such amazing supporters.
Two outstanding members of the community were recognized and honored, the 2023 Excellence in the Arts Hamilton Award was presented to Ed Satell. At the event it was announced that the Ed Satell Scholarship Fund was initiated. It will undoubtedly provide much-needed financial assistance to many passionate students. Also honored was Adam Blackstone ’04 (Instrumental Performance), who received the 2023 Alumni Award. He has served as musical director for acts such as Justin Timberlake, Rihanna, Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys, Maroon 5 and other artists. Recently, Adam cultivated the explosive Super Bowl 56 Halftime Show featuring Dr. Dre, Enimem, Snoop Dogg and Mary J. Blige. He couldn’t make the awards as he was in Europe working on a project with JayZ
Jim Dever, Jr. Bank of America Market President and Lynn Dever, MD.
Shawn Faust and Caroline Escober
Paul and Susan Saint Antoine
David Searles, AIA, LEED AP, Barbara Eberlein, ASIDView Barbara Eberlein, ASID’s profile, President of Eberlein Design Consultants Ltd. and Jerry Wind, Lauder Professor Emeritus and Professor of Marketing · The Wharton School
Jason and Caroline DeMarco
Valentina Echeverria, CCS Fundraising and Rebecca Haley
Dianne Semmingson, President of the Avenue of the Arts, Rae Johnson, and Ebone Leaphart, vice president of local media development for Comcast
On April 20th Boys’ Latin of Philadelphia held their annual fundraiser at a private club outside of Philadelphia. Beyond the Bell highlights the school’s mission by incorporating career-connected learning, fieldwork, and internships into their academic and co-curricular programming. Providing students with early exposure and experience in various career fields can help them make informed decisions about their future career goals and give them a head start on building the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve those goals.
William Hayes, Geoff Sheehan, Ben Peek,Ryan Mundy, and Tyler Jackson
Shakoor Henderson, Erika Chance and Kaori Walker
Nakhia Washington, Tyler Jackson, and Francina Girard
Nate Morris, Hannah Casey and Keith Bolden
Shaliyah & Darren Braxton and Tracie Slade
Soiyea Uthman-Olukokun and Eros Uthman-Olukokun · Principal at Boys’ Latin of Philadelphia High School
Patrick South, CFA Managing Director and Co-Founder, SRS Capital Advisors and Boys Latin Board Member, and Marianne Dean, Marianne Dean – Trustee at Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Boys’ Latin of Philadelphia is taking a proactive approach to preparing its students for success in the 21st century workforce. By providing them with meaningful career exposure and experience, as well as opportunities to earn college credits while still in high school, the school is setting its students up for a brighter future. Help Boys’ Latin of Philadelphia reach their goals.
The Post Brothers Piazza Alta, completed at the end of 2022, with almost 700 rental units and amenities is filling up with residents. I’ve been covering the Post Brothers for a decade now, from one of their first from the ground up developments like the Goldtex building off of Vine Street.to now Piazza Alta, their crown jewel in Northern Liberties
The combination of a rooftop pool club like Aqua Foro with interconnected pools, hot tub, splash pad, fire pits, kitchens, and lounge space makes it a unique and exciting destination for people to relax, socialize, and have fun. The design concept of an urban oasis, reminiscent of ancient ruins, but with a futuristic twist, is sure to create a memorable and magical experience for visitors.
Matthew Vogel and Farah Farag
Earlier this month the Post Brothers along with Cashman & Assocs. curated a list of VIPS, influencers and special guests along with residents, to enjoy the kick off of the summer season at the new pool.
The Millers: Barri, Amanda and Madison soak up the sun.
Sharron L Cooks wearing her fabulous sunnies in a stunning, hip hugging dress.
Bran Flakezz and his girlies: Casey Corradin, Grace Nenow, Carly Manning and Bailey Witherspoon
Erin Connery, Darius Alexander and Hacina Saadi
Aqua Foro, is a stunning 25,000 square foot rooftop pool club. Like the rooftop gardens of Rome, this unexpected sky garden is simultaneously urban and ethereal. A celebration of water and wellness, Aqua Foro evokes the beauty of an ancient ruin and the thrill of a futuristic retreat with a view of a burgeoning metropolis.
Post Brothers CEOMichael Pestronk (l) and President Matthew Pestronk (c) with friends, including the architects of the pool Rolando Lopez Lopez AIA – Project Architect – DIGSAU and Jeff Goldstein, principle at DIGSAU . I had a chance to chat with them, complimenting them on what is definitely one of the best designs of all the Post Brothers epic pool resorts. I love how they mimic the skyline with architectural elements, but didn’t block the view of the skyline, or sun rise or sun set horizons so the pool goers could enjoy all the views yet enjoy a sorta sculptural garden of sorts.
Honestly you won’t need that shore house anymore, just walk out your door to your resort. Almost makes me want to sell my house and move to NoLibs Piazza Alta.
The 2023 honorees include: Leslie Odom, Jr., Governor Rendell, Bacon Brothers, The Tymes, John DeBella , Patty Jackson, and James DePreist (Councilman Kenyatta Johnson presents flowers to Patty Jackson)
The Philadelphia Music Alliance, a community-based not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Philadelphia’s rich musical legacy, announced their 2023 Walk of Fame inductees during a press conference today at the Kimmel Cultural Campus. Established in 1986, the Walk of Fame, a creation of the Philadelphia Music Alliance, is a must-see tourist attraction on Philadelphia’s Avenue of the Arts.
The list of honorees was impressive: Leslie Odom, Jr. is a talented actor and singer, known for his work in “Hamilton” and “One Night in Miami.” Governor Rendell served as the Governor of Pennsylvania and was also the Mayor of Philadelphia, he and his former wife Judge Midge Rendell were instrumental in creating the Avenue of the Arts, where many of our musical and theatrical shows take place. The Bacon Brothers are a musical duo comprised of actor Kevin Bacon and his brother Michael, grew up on the 2100 Locust Street. Their father was the great Philly City Planner Ed Bacon, who I got to meet several times. The Tymes are a Philadelphia-based soul group that had several hits in the 1960s. John DeBella and Patty Jackson are both well-known radio personalities in the Philadelphia area, and James DePreist was a renowned conductor and music director. It’s great to see such a diverse group of musicians and public figures being recognized for their contributions to Philadelphia’s rich musical heritage.
The legendary radio personality Patty Jackson at the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame ceremony on Avenue of the Arts as Leslie Odom Jr. and James Depreist’s widow look on.
Michael and Kevin Bacon, have a band called The Bacon Brothers and were honored with a plaque on the Avenue of the Arts.
Leslie Odom Jr and Charlie Mac at the Philadelphia Alliance Hall of Fame induction on Broad Street in Philadelphia on April 20, 2023
Judge Midge Rendell, former Governor Ed Rendell, Jesse Rendell and Becca Rendell at the gala held at Vie in the evening.
Mark Schulz, Managing Director of the Philadelphia Music Alliance with honoree Leslie Odom, Jr. who grew up in Germantown. Leslie shouted out favorite arts he enjoyed including Philadanco, listening to Patty Jackson on Power 99 and enjoying Fairmout Park.
“The Walk of Fame is the City’s most impressive public monument to the people who have made Philadelphia a great music city,” said Mark Schulz, Managing Director of the Philadelphia Music Alliance. “Our 2023 inductees have deeply influenced how music is experienced not only in Philadelphia, but around the world. We are excited to honor these incredible artists, bands, and personalities on Broad Street this April.”
Sharon Pinkenson, Executive director of GPFO, Sheila Hess, City Representative, Leslie Odon, Jr. honoree, Al “Caesar” Berry Tymes member and honoree, actor, Dr. Thanuja Hamilton, board member of Avenue of The Arts, and Alicia Vitarelli, 6abc
The Walk of Fame is an important part of Philadelphia’s cultural heritage and a great way to honor the city’s musical legacy. The plaques are located along Broad Street’s Avenue of the Arts the series of over 100 bronze commemorative plaques honors Philadelphia area musicians and music professionals who have made a significant contribution to the world of music.
Larry and Mickey Magid.
Larry Magid received a Founders Award for creating the Philadelphia Music Alliance.
Stephen Spivak and Herb Spivak
One of my first jobs after high school was working for Herb and his brothers at H.A. Winston’s in Cherry Hill. I had a bare minimum idea of what was happening with his other business, which he started with Larry Magid at Electric Factory. I did know that we got to see the Michael Jackson video Thriller before it debut to the public, at our holiday party in 1983.
Steve and Kristin Vassalotti and Debby Derrick and Dan Martino, owner of one of the sweetest shops in Old City – Little Susies, but get there before 2PM when it closes daily, mostly because they sell out of their delicious pies.
The Tymes are an American soul vocal group who enjoyed equal success in the United Kingdom and in their homeland. They are one of the few acts to have one and only one chart-topper in both the US and UK with different songs. It was awesome to hear them perform three of their biggest songs – Wonderful Wonderful and So Much In Love.
All proceeds from the gala support the new PMA Music Education Fund.
Regina and Leon Huff. The PMA presented a special award to Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff & Thom Bell as “The Sound of Philadelphia.”
Can someone please work on the much promised Sound of Music museum. It’d be great if we could do it before everyone from the Sound of Philadelphia goes to the big juke box in the sky.
The Queen Patty Jackson: Congratulations on your honor, especially being the FIRST women from radio to be inducted in the Philadelphia Music Alliance walk of fame. Much deserved. I’ve always been a fan of Patty’s , and over the years have become a friend of Patty Jackson. I admire her work ethic, here resilience, her grind not only through out her career, but especially since her stroke 8 years ago. Kory and I went to see her in re-hab a few weeks after her stroke, before many people even knew she had a stroke, and she was determined to return to work, to continue to serve and make a difference I recalled that night, the chat we had, and shed more than a few tears of happiness to see her on the stage last night, triumphantly celebrating her presence, her win over adversity and securing a place in herstory at Broad & Pine!!
Screenwriter Lanie Robertson and actress Laurin Talese backstage on Opening Night of LADY DAY AT EMERSON’S BAR & GRILL at Philadelphia Theatre Company
The time is 1959. The place is a seedy bar in Philadelphia. The audience is about to witness one of Billie Holiday’s last performances, given four months before her death. More than a dozen musical numbers are interlaced with salty, often humorous reminiscences to project a riveting portrait of the lady and her music, in a smooth, emotional 90 minute concert of her life.
Tony Award-winning Robert Kaplowitz returns to PTC as Sound Designer for this production, Barrymore winning Scenic and Lighting Designer Thom Weaver and Lanie Robertson, playwriter of Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill
The creative team put a lot of effort into creating an immersive theatrical experience for the audience. By setting the show in a seedy bar and allowing the audience to watch while sitting on the stage, they are creating a unique environment that helps transport viewers into the world of the play. The involvement of local Philadelphia-based designers, as well as award-winning designers like Thom Weaver and Robert Kaplowitz, should help to ensure that the set, lighting, sound, and costumes are all top-notch, all the way down to the gardenia that Billie Holiday often wore in her hair.
Michael Lewis, Judge Kathryn Lewiis, Rosakyn Robinson and Warren English
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to close out our season with this fantastic musical event about the life and music of the extraordinary Billie Holiday,” says PTC Co-Artistic Director Tyler Dobrowsky. “And with Jeffrey Page at the helm, fresh off his Broadway debut, and the luminous Laurin Talese playing Lady Day, this will be a production you won’t want to miss. Join us for a page right out of Philadelphia history.”
Khemist O,Dani Allen, Senior Director of Education and Community Engagement at The Philadelphia Orchestra and Frank Machos, executive director for the School District of Philadelphia’s Office of the Arts & Creative Learning.
Laura Steel, Patricia Oelbaum and Elliott Schwartz, PTC Board Member
Ryan Schrader, Board of Directors and Yolanda Booker
Remember to get there at least 20 minutes before showtime, as your seat is on the stage and late arrivals will ruin it for the rest of us sitting down to relax and see the show, as well as disturb Billie who might just take it out on you.
Tickets for Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill are on sale now. Tickets start at $25 and are available at Click Here, by calling 215-985-0420, or by visiting the Box Office. Connect with Philadelphia Theatre Company for the latest updates on social at @philatheatreco on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, and @philatheatre on TikTok.
Philadelphia Theater Company sponsors posed backstage on opening with the star Laurin Talese who have made this production, and our season, possible. Honorary Producers for Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill are Alice L. George and Lou Oschmann. Season Sponsors include Independence Blue Cross and Center City Film & Video.
Just Announced: Fly Me To The Moon as you transport yourself to another time and place with the Rat Pack Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and the one and only cool cat Sammy Davis Jr.
PHILADELPHIA — April 17, 2023 — Get ready to swing with the coolest cats in town! Guests will enjoy dinner and a tribute to the 1960s music era when Strictly Sinatra Presents: The Rat Pack transports them back to the time of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. at Rivers Casino Philadelphia on July 28. Tickets for The Event Center show start at $59 and go on sale Friday, April 21, at 10 a.m.
Enjoy Dinner Before the Show — 7:30 p.m.
Guests will enjoy a sit-down dinner, included in the ticket price. The menu features a generous portion of baked ziti with a meatball, preceded by a Caesar salad and bread course. Dinner also includes a glass of house wine and limoncello gelato for dessert.
Strictly Sinatra Presents: The Rat Pack — 8 p.m.
This electrifying show will bring the Rat Pack to life, courtesy of some of the most talented tribute artists in the business. Michael Dutra, who has been recognized as one of the top Sinatra tribute artists in the world, leads the ensemble. The show features Dutra’s smooth vocals as he sings Sinatra classics such as “My Way,” “Fly Me to the Moon” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin.” Guests will feel like they’re watching Ol’ Blue Eyes himself.
Two Shows with Jeffrey Osborne at Rivers Casino Philadelphia on June 16 & June 17. He has a new CD out “A Time for Love” , but you know he’s going to sing On The Wings of Love. I just saw him 2 years ago at the Dell, and he was amazing. Very personable, and entertaining. You’re going to enjoy this special night.
One of my favorite late night spots in the City to eat, especially Chinese food, is Mian at Rivers Casino. One warning, unless you’re really hungry, an entree will do as their portion sizes are big, but do get the egg rolls. So good. If you were there last month, you saw me eating there at least twice, near midnight.
For more goings on at Rivers Casino Philadelphia head to their website, or their Social Media, they’ve been paying out slot jackpots all month long. When I was there a few weeks ago, a women won $15,000- on a $2 bet.
4Ever Young Anti-Aging Institute now has a Philadelphia location. The wellness franchise opened its doors 4Ever Young Anti-Aging Solutions. Bringing the best kind of medspa and wellness cultures together, 4Ever Young brings beauty to the thriving communities of Center City and Midtown Philly.
Bob and Erin Polizzano, owners of Center City 4ever Young
Located at 1216 Walnut St., the Philadelphia location is the 15th for the brand, following the big footprints of the flagship location that blew up the anti-aging scene in Boca Raton in 2014.
Victoria Capaccio and Siani Caban
4Ever Young is a premium Wellness & Medical Spa center in Philadelphia, PA that focuses on providing the best anti aging solutions for men & women.
Cynthaya Johnson
No one can stop getting older, but can we look and feel much younger than our age? Live a longer, healthier life? By applying recent advances from biomedical research, it is possible to slow the rate of the aging process, and even slow and reverse some of the effects of aging says Carlton Washington and Deniz Duygulu, founders of 4ever Young.
Siani Caban, Victoria Capaccio and Connor Frank
4ever Young offers IV nutrition, hormone replacement therapy, peptides, menopause, andropause treatments, & bioidentical hormones. We also offer custom facials, Botox, Skin Tightening, dermal fillers, double chin removal, lip enhancement, Hydrafacial, Microneedling, chemicals peels, and medically-assisted weight loss.
Kate Potter and Ryan Adams
Bob and Erin can’t wait to share their passion with their fellow Philadelphians. “We’re excited to bring 4Ever Young to the city of Philadelphia and help their patients to look and feel their best!”
