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Back in April, a new movement was launched on a beautiful day in Love Park: the Phambassadors. Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center, introduced the program — an initiative aiming to rally over 10,000 proud Philadelphians in the next two years. Together, this growing community will help shape how the world sees and experiences the city, leading up to 2026 and beyond.

Fast forward to June 21 — the Phambassadors kicked things off with their very first Pham Camp, held at the Visitor Center! Over 150 proud Philadelphians signed up to learn how to turn their city love into street-level magic. You know the moment: someone’s staring at a map, squinting at their phone, scanning street signs , looking lost. Your Philly instincts kick in — and boom — you’re pointing them toward the Liberty Bell or even where their doctor’s office is located, like a local legend. That’s the Phambassador spirit!

The morning started with a continental breakfast.

where Phambassadors signed the pledge to do their part in sharing their Philly love to others.

Phambasadors: Steve Simon poses with “George Washington” both of whom have signed on to the volunteer program.

Each Phambassador was assigned to a “Street Named” table and what I really appreciated was that if you signed up with a friend or spouse, they made sure to seat you separately. It was a smart move to encourage individuality and fresh connections.

The program kicked off at 9 a.m. sharp, with a packed room full of eager Philadelphians ready to become top-notch city ambassadors.

The morning started with a welcome from Ott Lovell sharing that the Phambassador program is flexible, letting participants engage at their own pace—whether it’s sharing good news online, volunteering at events, or spotlighting Philly’s hidden gems, there’s a role for everyone.

Speakers included Matt O’Donnell, 6ABC, Chef Jacquie Kelly from Streets of Philly Food Tours who surprised us with cannolis served after lunch, film maker Sam Katz showing snippets of some of his Emmy award winning documentaries,

Matt Ray, Chatterblast, whose company helped create the branding for the Phambassadors, Alphonso Dashiell, The Black Journey and the grand finale a surprise appearance by the Phillie Phanatic!

It was a great day, with lots of break out sessions, brain storming, quizzes and comradeship.

Ott Lovell emphasized Phambassador members get access to “exclusive events, local perks and exciting updates.”

Sign Up to be a Phambassador, get ready for an exciting new adventure, sharing the joy of Philly, with others. Make sure to come out to the next Pham Camp in the fall.

The Wardrobe marked its 30th anniversary in style with a VIP celebration at Rivers Casino on May 30.

For three decades, the Philadelphia-based nonprofit has been combating clothing insecurity by providing upcycled clothing and professional development support to over 10,000 people each year.

The event honored The Wardrobe’s ongoing mission to empower individuals and promote sustainable fashion in the city.

The evening featured a cocktail hour and pop-up shop showcasing curated looks, followed by a dinner reception and fashion show highlighting client success stories.

WHYY journalist Cherri Gregg who served as emcee, with special appearances by Fox 29’s Sue Serio, Councilwoman Rue Landau, fashion influencer Mar Santana, and actor-comedian Sean Barry Parsons.

Because of your support, the Wardrobe raised $115,275, surpassing our goal and unlocking our match! Even if you could not join us, you can still make an impact by making a monthly donation of $30 or more.

Thanks to everyone who has been involved in the success of The Wardrobe over the last thirty years. Cheers to more years helping people get on their feet and living the life of their dreams.

Thanks to PCC photographer Talya Hailey for shooting the event.

Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia marked its 30th anniversary with an inspiring celebration on May 1, 2025, at The Grand Belle at The Bellevue Hotel. The annual soiree brought together supporters to honor three decades of impact, raising vital funds to help more students reach their academic goals and to support the development of future educators.

Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia helps launch motivated and traditionally underserved middle school students on a path to top choice high schools, setting a critical foundation for postsecondary and career success. Breakthrough also provides pre-professional teacher training to inspire college students to pursue careers in education

To learn more about Breakthrough’s impact, explore the 2023-2024 Impact Report

Amazon Prime Video’s hit series “Reacher” began production of Season 4 over the weekend, in PHILADELPHIA!!!, as I mentioned on my IG Sunday.

Monday morning I headed to Rittenhouse Square’s to see where they were filming. The signage said there would be road closures between 6am and 11am on 18th and Locust Streets, so I figured 9am would be a perfect time to see what was happening because by then the rehearsal for the scenes would be over and they the actual stars of the show would be filming and not their stand ins (For those new here, I have been a celebrity photographer/paparazzi for nearly 20 years. Working in NYC for 6 of those years.)

Perfect it was an al fresco dining scene at Stephen Starr’s Parc Rittenhouse restaurant. The scene was him dining curbside, as a police chase ensued in the street next to the famed eatery. I am not at all familiar with the show, never saw it, and never heard of the actors, ( I’m watching the first season as I write this, and it is sooo good.)

Tip: Before I left to go do this shoot I pulled up the lead characters photos to study what they looked like.

The fourth season of “Reacher” is based on the 13th book in Lee Child’s global best-selling Jack Reacher novel series, “Gone Tomorrow.” Per Amazon’s description, “When a chance encounter with a distraught stranger on a train goes horribly wrong, Jack Reacher is drawn into a complex and deadly game that pits him against ruthless foes from the highest echelons of power.” On Sunday Reacher filmed at 27th and Pennsylvania on the train tracks, and Monday afternoon they filmed at the Rail Park at Noble Street in North Philly.

After Alan Ritchson wrapped a street scene with police cars pulling up to the restaurant, a line of black SUVs rolled up, and I was thinking did they just add these as the other 2 takes didn’t feature black SUVS ; and out stepped Joe, Hunter and Jill Biden. The crew started cheering, someone shouted ‘We love you, Joe!’ — I honestly thought they were filming a finale until I saw the former president head into the restaurant.

Turns out, the President just wanted some eggs. The Bidens spent about an hour inside Parc, chatting with the Reacher crew and posing for photos, giving everyone on set and nearby a completely unexpected crossover moment.

As Biden exited the restaurant, the cast, crew and dog walkers in the park broke out in cheers and applause. Biden thanked the local Philly police for their service, shook hands and posed for selfies on the way back to his car.

Filming rolled on for another 30 minutes before the Reacher crew packed up and headed to their next stop — the Rail Park. I’ve gotta say, I get the hype now… no wonder my friend Dee is obsessed with this show! Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes snaps. Word is they’ll be filming in Philly for another week — but in true Reacher fashion, they won’t be staying in one place for long.

CHECK OUT CBSPhilly for video of Biden and Reacher filming yesterday outside of Parc. An interview with my, someone who badly needs a haircut!!

Were you and EXTRA on the Parc shoot yesterday? You’re photo might be here.

Yesterday it was announced The 13th Annual Le Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia was set for Thursday, August 21, 2025, at a stunning but secret location. “We’re counting down the days until we can see you dressed in your Gatsby-themed white attire. Stay tuned for more updates on this year’s event!”

Riverfront happenings. The beautiful, expansive, apartment complex Rivermark at Columbus Blvd. & Spring Garden St has been opened for a few months now. Lots happening on the complex including a beautiful new sculpture. Haddad Drugan is preparing to install “River Soundings”,

a landmark sculpture at @rivermarknorthernliberties that is part beacon, part lighthouse, part navigational instrument, revealing the river’s depth through motifs of this ancient technique.

This Friday June 13, 2025, Sprouts is opening at Rivermark.

Enjoy 20% off* during their grand opening weekend, June 13th-15th, when you sign up for a Sprouts account. Plus, enjoy samples, giveaways, and activities for everyone all weekend long!

All Aboard Candy opens at 20th and Locust on Thursday, June 12 at Noon. They have lots of fun giveaways for customers. Follow them on IG and get the scoop.

One of my favorite quarterly events: Thrifty Disco on Saturday June 14! Put on your disco pants and come on over as we raise money for Philly Aids Thrift + KDU (and get special treats from Darnel’s Cakes).

The Boys Scouts of America were proud to honor four incredible pillars of the community at the 15th Annual Cradle of Liberty Council Corporate Campfire on Tuesday.

Honored Emily Bittenbender, Meg Kane, Sal Paolantonio and Craig Williams. Congrats to all!!

When so many corporations are moving away from supporting the LGBTQ+ community, one corporation isn’t – Hard Rock Atlantic City.

Every year, Hard Rock Atlantic City proudly celebrates Pride Month with events that uplift and honor the LGBTQ+ community 🌈 This year’s flag-raising and rooftop reception continued their tradition of visibility, inclusion, and celebration.

The event featured inspiring remarks from General Manager Michael Sampson, Atlantic City Council Member Kaleem Shabazz, and special guest, three-time Daytime Emmy Award winner Anthony Wilkinson LGBTQ+ Liaison and Programs and Services Coordinator Judah Dorrington and Markie Matthew Fera-Padilla · AC Pride – Board President

A reception was held at The Terrace, Hard Rock Atlantic City’s seasonal rooftop destination following the ceremony. A delicious lunch was served with the best rainbow cake I’ve ever had.

and banana pudding! Thank you Hard Rock for having our back!! We appreciate it!!

Upcoming Dates

June 26, 2025 – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City celebrates their 7^th Anniversary celebration, where charity organizations received $7,000 donation from the Hard Rock to honor their work. Look for lots of fun events surrounding this anniversary.

Then on Friday June 27th. the July 4th celebration kick off with fireworks at 9:30pm held on North Beach in front of the Hard Rock Casino Resorts. Not only are they beautiful, but with the lighted Ferris wheel as the backdrop the view just can’t be beat.

And the best concerts can definitely be found at Hard Rock AC. Who’s looking forward to Jackson Brown on June 28?

Have a great day. Socially yours, HugHE

Eluna marked a milestone anniversary at its 25th annual Champions for Children (CFC) gala, held at the Fitler Club in April. The event brought together supporters, community leaders, and special guests to celebrate the organization’s enduring commitment to children, teens, and families impacted by grief or addiction.

The evening began with a cocktail reception, before guests headed into the ballroom for a seated dinner, inspiring program, auction and included many supportive guests and honorees!

This year the Champions for Children gala proudly honored Amanda Kloots with the Champion for Children Award in recognition of her inspiring advocacy and unwavering support for families navigating grief. Daniel J. Hilferty, Chairman & CEO of Comcast Spectacor, received the prestigious Founders Award for his exceptional leadership and dedication to the Philadelphia community. M&T Bank was recognized with the Community Award, celebrating the company’s continued commitment to uplifting and empowering local families through strategic philanthropy and partnership.

Founded in 2000 in Seattle by MLB pitcher Jamie Moyer and child advocate Karen Phelps Moyer, Eluna —originally known as The Moyer Foundation—was inspired by the compassion of a young cancer patient, Erin Metcalf. In 2002, the organization launched Camp Erin in her honor, which has since grown into the largest free grief camp network for youth in North America.

Building on that success, Camp Mariposa was introduced in 2007 as a mentoring and addiction prevention program for youth affected by a family member’s substance use. To extend its support beyond camps, Eluna later created the Eluna Resource Center, an online hub offering a wide range of grief and addiction-related articles, videos, and personalized resources for caregivers and families. In 2018, the organization rebranded as Eluna, a name meaning moonlight—symbolizing hope through the darkness of loss and hardship.

To date, the organization has empowered over 37,000 youth through Camp Erin and more than 3,500 youth through Camp Mariposa, offering healing and mentorship to those affected by grief and addiction.

Its Resource Center has reached hundreds of thousands of users seeking guidance and support, and research shows that 68% of Eluna alumni go on to pursue careers in helping professions—demonstrating the organization’s lasting impact on future generations.

All funds generated through CFC will support the free programs offered, including Camp Erin, Camp Mariposa, and the Eluna Resource Center.

Hope you had a great weekend. Bare with me as I begin to post the many events which have happened during the Spring Social Season. Also check out Philly Style Mag, Main Line Today, CBSPhilly and my IG for more photos from the galas/parties/events, the latter two in a more timely matter.

Socially Yours, HughE

Five years ago, Dom Pecora, a teen from Chester County, made it his mission to fix bikes and save lives. His nonprofit organization, Dom Fixes Bikes, donates bicycles to anyone passionate about riding—regardless of age, race, gender, or financial ability.

Based in Malvern, Dom’s nonprofit hosted clinics focused on bike safety and repair, offering hands-on learning while restoring bikes for people who needed them most. He launched the initiative from his mother’s garage in Chesterbrook, and over time, it grew into a community-driven effort.

Earlier this month, May 15th, he brought the community, and sponsors together to celebrate 5 years of putting smiles on bike enthusiasts faces.

Conestoga High School students volunteered on the check in table, and at the event during the 5th anniversary celebration

The Board of Directors

Located in Malvern, Dom Fixes Bikes offers expert bike repairs with a personal touch—from quick tune-ups to detailed maintenance. More than just a repair shop, it’s a hub for local cyclists. Through its year-round donation program, the nonprofit also gives new and used bikes to anyone in need who applies. News stories of this incredible young man and his journey HERE

Juvenile Law Center Celebrates 50 Years of Advocacy and Impact

On May 2, 2025, the Juvenile Law Center marked a monumental milestone—50 years of fighting for youth justice and child welfare reform—with an unforgettable evening of reflection, recognition, and renewed purpose. Surrounded by 600 friends, colleagues, and supporters, we came together to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look boldly toward the future.

The evening paid heartfelt tribute to co-founder Bob Schwartz, whose visionary leadership helped shape five decades of impact, and honored the powerful legacy of Marsha Levick, a tireless advocate and national voice for children’s rights.

Larry Carroll, Jr. Jihid Maye, Jeff Weaver and Jenavia Weaver

Founded by four Temple Law School graduates in 1975 to provide legal representation to children in Philadelphia’s child welfare and justice systems, Juvenile Law Center is now one of the most influential advocates for children’s rights nationwide.

From moving speeches to joyful reunions, it was a celebration of progress made—and a call to keep pushing forward for the generations to come.

Join in the celebration and purchase a commemorative 50th anniversary t-shirt at this link! Your purchase supports legal and policy advocacy to keep children out of harmful and violent facilities and with their families and communities.

For more info on the JLC’s Mission head here!! And receive their newsletter.

On Friday, March 28, 2025, the PYO Music Institute hosted its 85th Anniversary Gala at the historic Union League of Philadelphia, celebrating nearly a century of musical excellence, education, and community impact. Titled A Community in Harmony Inspiring the Future, the evening was a dazzling tribute to the students, families, faculty, and supporters who have helped shape one of the nation’s premier youth orchestral institutions.

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.

The Mission of PYO: As one of the nation’s oldest and most respected youth orchestra organizations, we provide unparalleled opportunities to musicians of all levels. Through exceptional educational and professional-caliber performance opportunities, our diverse ensemble programs nurture the next generation of musicians and leaders.

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.

The celebration continued with a stirring performance by the Philadelphia Youth Orchestra,

followed by an elegant seated dinner.

PYO Music Institute‘s 85th Anniversary Gala A Community in Harmony Inspiring the Future

Happy hump day, don’t worry about this weather it’s only a few days before unofficial SUMMER! Socially Yours, HughE