Bill Marrazzo welcomes more than 200 Billy Penn readers and fans who gathered at WHYY last week to celebrate 10 years of the news website and hear from seven winners of the publication’s Billies Awards. The Billies is their annual entertainment and awards show celebrating cool people who help make Philadelphia better and more fun.
One of those cool kids was Albert Lee, who a decade ago worked at the visitor center, and who also celebrated Philadelphia with his eponymous SM handle UrPhillyPal
About Billy Penn:
Founded in 2014 as a mobile-first platform aimed at millennials, BillyPenn generated buzz with its innovative approach to local news, even translating government debates into emojis! WHYY acquired BillyPenn from its founding owner, Spirited Media, on April 15, 2019. This creative spirit has continued as BillyPenn maintains its distinct voice within WHYY’s collaborative newsroom.
Mary Ann Falzone, John Estrada, Randye Spina and Bill Marrazzo
Heather Steiner, Heather Steiner, owner and lead trainer of HALO Dog Training. The Marketing department is an one history! celebrated her birthday at the Billy’s celebration!!
Mary Ann Falzone, John Estrada, Randye Spina and Bill Marrazzo
Frank Olivieri owner of Pat’s Cheesteaks and Nancy Schure Olivieri, of Pat’s King of Steaks, where she manages PR and social media- honored with a Billy celebrating food.
Max Tuttleman, Terrill Haigler and Lauren Vidas
Debbie Gowen, John Martelli and Patty Fox. Before I was PhillyChitChat Patty used to sell my photo greeting cards at her store on 20th Street “The General Store.” How I miss that eclectic store.
Robert Evans and Raymond Holman
Congratulations to the honorees:
SOCIAL MEDIA – Albert Lee (@urphillypal) ARTS – Conrad Benner BUSINESS – Alex Hillman PUBLIC SERVICE – Terrill Haigler SOCIAL – Dave Cline FOOD #1 – Nancy Schure Olivieri FOOD #2 – Alex Tominsky
Finally a few days off. I will be catching up on blog posts the next few days, and of course follow me on IG for daily posts, don’t forget to check out the stories where I post every 6 hours of what’s happening. Socially yours, HughE
People always ask me what is the best party in Philly. Well easily Eagles game day comes out on top. It’s embarrassing, Philly Chit Chat for 17 years, an Eagles fan, yet only my 2nd tailgate party.
Sunday was incredibly beautiful, and the traffic was a nightmare getting there. Leave early I was told, I thought 930am was early.
Now I know why people arrive 6 hours before game time, not only to set up the perfect party scenario, but to beat the traffic. Also pre pay for your parking pass, something I didn’t do, and ended up parking near Live Casino, for $45, which actually was a bargain.
These boots are made for….
I love a good swag bag, or giveaway. LaColombe Frothiest was delicious… Hey Michael Newmuis, love your service Eagles jersey.
Philadelphian’s really step up with the spirit, at any given moment their are high fives happening, especially when walking by Xfinity Live, which had the longest line to get in. What a great asset to the stadium area, they really had a vision and it really is a success in spades.
The Ball on the Square was held last night, September 26, 2024, in Center City. Hosted by the Friends of Rittenhouse Square and taking place in the heart of the Square. The Ball on the Square is an elegant autumn event where attendees wear black-tie attire to raise funds for the upkeep, beautification and preservation of Rittenhouse Square Park.
Dana Rosen, co-chair of tonight’s ball and Michael Zaslov
The 2024 Event Chairs Jay Minkoff, Dana Rosen
Honorary Co Chairs Wendy Rosen and Brian Emmons
Like many residents of Philadelphia, we eagerly anticipate this event as it elegantly kicks off the fall social season! Spotted were familiar faces who have attended supported the ball and it’s mission, last night like The Morton’s, the Brown’s, Former Mayor Michael Nutter, Laura LaRosa, Board President, June Armstrong, Executive Director, Nicole Cashman, Kristen Foote, Sabrina Tamburino Thorne, Lori Peruto, and a few new faces as well, Nikki Johnson-Alfano and her husband Gaetan; Phyllis Lacca and a few lovelies in this column.
It’s always nice to meet PhillyChitChat IG followers like, Eugene Chong and Irene Rogerson. Eugene is spinning at Vinyl tonight beginning at 10PM!!
Darryl Williams, The Franklin Institute’s Senior Vice President of Science and Education, and Debbie Brecher, Managing Director of Tandem Group
David Steerman, Lori Nicoletti Peruto and Mark Nicoletti
Maestro Louis Scaglione, PYO, Amy Bergman, Happy Birthday 9/25, Monique Moore Pryor, Executive of the Free Library Foundation and Drew Bergman, OIC Philadelphia, celebrating a birthday Saturday 9/28!!
Cindy Caccuro and Adriana Weller
Juliia Green and Scott Brown (sorry this photo did not turn out well, should have taken two.) ANYWHO Julia is ALSO spinning at Vinyl Tonight until 10PM, stop by and give her a listen!!
Pascal and Maria Jabbour, Jane and Thomas KangBrian Emmons , co-chair of the Rittnhouse Ball is surrounded by Southern Land Company’s The Laurel Condo Crew, consisting of residents and staff.
Doc Parghi, Kate Slattery Parghi, Chandra Robinson and Thaddus Bartkowski
The Jefferson Health Team
Philly Chit Chat OG Crew; John Colabelli, Chuck Peruto, Alisa Frederico, Lauren Beloff Sembello, Natalie Foglietta, Nicole Cashman, Sabrina Tamburino Thorne and Nigel Richards (been photographing this crew my entire 17 years in the biz)Ashley Piotrowski, SKINCREDIBLE Sal D’Angelo, D’Angelo‘s on 20th, Aleva Parker and Damenica Vince
Megan Nicoletti, who is co chair of the Soiree on the Square formerly known as the Young Friends Gala, tonight. Tickets still available at $250
The name change came about as to not have an age barrier for those who still wanted to support the mission of the square – Preserve-Protect-Beautify.
Phyllis Lacca and Lindsay Alexander, Friends of Rittenhouse Square
PS Last night’s temperature was anything but autumn. The Ball used to be held in June and that was a guaranteed hot time, but last night rivaled a good summer night. Everyone took it in stride, especially since we were immersed in the beautifully designed Evantine tropical themed atmosphere. AND as you see the dance floor remained one of the hottest spots of the night with Starlight music performing.
Look for additional photos in the December issue of Philly Style Magazine and Philly Magazine. ALSO on PhillyChitChat Instagram. It’s interesting since the break between galas 2020 -2023, I gained 30ks plus IG followers, and many of them don’t realize my photos go in magazines. They’re excited to be feature on my IG. So I will be posting on the grid highlights of who was there, there.
Thursday night September 19 the movers, shakers and scene stealers were spotted at the annual Philadelphia Style Magazine’s annual Best of Philly Style (BOS) Party held at the Kimmel Center.
John Colabelli, Media Executive٠ Philly Style Magazine @modernluxuryand Sabrina Tamburino Thorne
Mia Heller, Jen Groover, Linda LaRosa, Lindsay Furman Alexander and Sherri Davis
Lindsay Furman Alexander Director of Development- Friends of Rittenhouse Square Org. (a non-profit organization) is ready for the Ball on the Square on Thursday, and Soiree on the Square, ie the Young Friends, but don’t call it that, event on Friday. Tickets are still available for Friday’s event HERE
Entrepreneur’s Kelvin Alexander and Justin ColemanBake’n Bacon in South Philly looking great. They went from a food truck, to their dream a brick and mortar.
Thanuja Hamilton, Frances Wang, Frances moves from weekend mornings to weekend nights starting this Sunday on NBC10 and Sheila Hess
Drew Bergman, strategic director of OIC Philadelphia and Amy Bergman
This is not a drill!! For now until Wednesday, we’re offering an exclusive $100 Flash Sale on tickets to A Taste of OIC! You have the chance to secure your ticket at a special discounted price—hurry before time runs out! HERE
Lyndsay Rowland, Aida Sparta *Happy Birthday*, Greg Basile and Anne Nikolaus
Alana Farlow, Danielle Bloom and Colette Gabriel
I loved the entrance to the Philly Style Party this year; Drapes are a common element in traditional event design, serving important functions like reducing noise and ensuring privacy. However, their role can go beyond practicality. When integrated into a theme, drapes can elevate event spaces, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. – Created by Elizabeth Margaret Events.
John Whitehead, Strategic Partner at the Philadelphia Ballet and Michelle Miller, The Ground Coffee & Plants in Rittenhouse
Jessie Read and Alison Brady
Jermaine Jenkins, Strategic Partnership Design Philadelphia and Anaïs Cooper-Hackman Programming and Partnerships Director · Ray
Then be sure to explore the exhibits, discussions, activities, and parties happening throughout the festival at various locations across the city, including the house tours. Check the Schedule !!
Let the Fall Social Season Begin: Last night I attended two events. Global Philadelphia’s 2024 World Heritage City Celebration at the Crystal Tea Room, which I will write about next week, and The Good Gala at Union Trust. Both events were Finley Catering spaces.
Established in Philadelphia in 2019, Friends for Good (FFG) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) social philanthropic organization bringing together young professionals with a commitment to community service.
Laila Imam, Dayna Sobanko and Michele Voltz
Supporting and assisting unhoused individuals around Philadelphia has been one of our important areas of focus since 2019. Providing access to food security, clothing and mental health assistance has been something we’ve been proud to provide our partners with – Friends for Good
Doug Foulkes of Bazaarvoice and Joanna Joye
Vanya Sax, Frank Criniti, DJ Smooth and Michael Wynne – Smooth Entertainment
Eric Visnov and Hannah Krupa, ChitChat “It Girl “One To Watch” 10 years ago, Hannah is now pursuing her dreams in NYC, but stopped by last nights gala to sing a few songs for the worthy cause.
Alexandra Hussain and Cassidy Sheppard
Vanya Sax doing his thingLisa Washington, Samaya Brown, Nyashe Felder and Teneasha Billingsley
Ali Volpe and Mina Massaro, MD.
Mike Giangiordano, Helen Liu Gerhad and Alexandira BilderBrooke Storms, and Peter Mastrogiacomo , his company Graysonky was a sponsor the event, Zuna and Scott Cohen, both couples are long time PhillyChitChat readers. It was so nice to be out and about and see everyone again.The Fords: Janine, Wayne and Ryan. Ryan is the Director, Marketing and Operations at Warrington Country Club. I’ve photographed a few events at his scenic venue.Friends for Good: The Good Gala was formal cocktail attire and attended by over 300 people.
If you didn’t see your photo here, you might see it in the November issue of Philly Style Magazine.
The 12th Diner en Blanc in Philadelphia took place at Love Park
Earlier this summer, at the preview party for Diner en Blanc Philadelphia co-host of Le Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia Natanya DiBona said: “We are thrilled to announce the return of Le Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia for its 12th year on August 15th, 2024.” “This iconic event has become a cherished tradition, bringing together our community in a magical evening of elegance, friendship, and celebration. We can’t wait to create more unforgettable memories with everyone this year.” And that they did.
I’m always in awe of the guests who have to carry their supplies in all types of weather, to a spot, where they wait for instructions. After shooting the event for over a decade I realize now that it’s not only about the element of surprise, but logistically for set up purposes.
Le Diner en Blanc is so much more than an event! It’s a unique cultural movement that empowers friends of friends to gather and celebrate their shared passions for life, food, fashion, and community, year after year, with a pinch of mystery and large serving of spontaneity.
Versions are held on six continents, bringing diners dressed in white to a temporary setup in a public space, using their own food, tables, chairs and tablecloths.
Kashya Harton, Tyeisha Washington and Lillian Roberts
If you have it they will come, from all walks of life, to enjoy a magical night in a Philly in a public space.
Kayli Moran and Natanya DiBona co chairs, and the first organizers of the Philadelphia Diner en Blanc since it’s inception in Philly.
as someone who has photographed this event from the beginning, I am so grateful to Kayli and Natanya, for all the volunteers, for the City and the guests who have supported this event. It’s huge, it’s sometimes inconvenient, it’s a beautiful escape from reality which we all deserve. James Spence and Ley Joanis had previous gone to one in Delaware, and was attending the Philadelphia for the first time.Tamisha Clark waves a napkin to indicate the beginning of dinner.
Thank you to my friends Kate & Mark for allowing me to shoot Diner en Blanc from her apartment building.
Diner en Blanc has always had the best Instagramable spots, but nothing beats the Love Statue.A slice of Diner en Blanc. The press area was located in the former Love Park Welcome Center, something exciting I’m sure to come. Thanks to the City Reps office for letting me shoot this from their offices.Arguably one of the most iconic moments of the night – the lighting of the sparklers to signify the end of dinner and the beginning of dancing.Brandon and Anna DeAngeliscore memories were made on August 15 in Philly. I’ll never be stressed out at this intersection again.Hanna Burnett, Leah Briggin , Jean Greeff and Tom Fitzpatrick Becca Adap gives Shanree Thomas a bite of her dessertNellie Hill, Devon Conley, and Jordan Conley, Table by Danielle MelbourneThe organizer go all out for the guests, there’s always surprises popping up, roller skaters, double dutch rope jumpers, angels, strolling musicians and the list goes on. I never even see every thing.My girlfriends decided to all wear pearls to dinner. Hey I see Erika and Rodney McLeod’s new baby girl making her public debut (l)
Broad Street band entertains the crowd who danced in the street til 11pm
Congratulations to Kate Marlys, Philly Pr Girl and Declan Rodgers on their engagement! Great job with the PR for Diner en Blanc as well!! Winning night.
12 years strong. It’s just amazing how this event has grown, and survived, even through the pandemic. Thanks again to all those involved. Thanks to all my ChitChatters who stopped me to say hi, sorry if you haven’t seen your photos yet, they’re still to come in Philly Style Mag, Philly Mag, Main Line Today and right now in CBSPhilly.
If you’d like to attend Diner en Blanc Philly click here
On Thursday, Aug. 15, at 11:30 a.m., the 76ers and Penn Medicine teamed up to unveil a newly refurbished basketball court at Roberto Clemente Park in Philadelphia, cutting a ribbon on a new and safe place where local youth and their families can gather.
The Sixers Dance Team performed.
As did Sixers Stix, who will also be performing tonight at Diner en Blanc
Susan Slawson – Parks and Recreation Commissioner, stated how grateful the City was that partners like the Sixers and Penn Medicine would support projects like this as the City does not have the funding alone to execute on this level. Which we call gap funding. It’s why entities like Rittenhouse Square has a gala, to raise funds for the upkeep of the very public Rittenhouse Square.
Legend Dr J was in the house. He told the gathered crowd, especially the kids, that a neighborhood basketball court was a great way to start off ones dream of being a pro player. It was also a great place to make friends, and socialize, but it takes more than play time to become great. It takes working hard in school, discipline and being a good kid.
Newly elected Council Person Jeffery Young Jr. – City Council (District 5) was excited to pick up from the last administration to finish the project for the Spring Garden/Fairmount neighborhood. He also announced the Fairmount Sunflower Festival would be taking place September 7. Save the date.
Magda Morerief, Millie Watson, Lauren Bhal and Lindsay Felder of the Sixers
Were putting smiles on lots of kids faces with Sixers Swag. Next up for the Sixers is Wilt Chamberlain Memorial Fund Pickleball Tournament and Reception on September 7. INFO
Rev, Lorina Marshall-Blake, Independence Blue Cross Foundation. Monique Braxton, spokesperson for School District of Philadelphia, Debora Carrera, Ed.D, City of Philadelphia and Tony B. Watlington, Sr. Ed.D Superintendent SDP speak at the Back to School Launch EventWillie and Artul wait in line for the backpacks, before walking at the dozen tables packed with programs to assist in his education.
The School District of Philadelphia kicked off the 4th Annual Back-to-School Celebration & Bus Tour with a block party at the School of the Future on Monday.
Local students were given a free backpack filled with school supplies during the event, while parents and caregivers had an opportunity to register their children for pre-Kindergarten through 12th grade and sign up for the district’s online Parent Portal, school officials said.
Dr. Kwane Williams and Toni Okarma hand out school supplies pertaining to understanding math. Math is taught a bit differently than when their parents were students. It’s really amazing the programs offered to the students to assist them in their education.Kathryn Block and Rev. Lorina Marshall-Blake, president of IBC Foundation hand out back packs to students. Black was the most popular color, but girls still love pink as well.
As in previous years, the Tour is powered by the Independence Blue Cross Foundation, and brings critical Back-to-School information and services right to your neighborhood. From July 29 through August 17, the bus will travel across Philly hosting 7 fun-filled Mega-Events co-sponsored by various partners including Radio One, Office Depot, and Roosevelt Mall – as well as a new partner this year – Fashion District Philadelphia!
Families pose in front of the Eagles Eye Mobile at the 4th annual “Back-to-School Celebration and Bus Tour.”Face paintingTree House Books – Free Book Mobile. They give out books to students and adults.Elijah and Amara
School Starts Monday, August 26th! Join the Celebration and prepare for a great new school year.
Free backpacks and school supplies (while supplies last)
Back-to-school tips and information
Free immunizations and school physicals
Snacks and frozen treats
Educational activities
New to the District? Register your child on-site
Sign up for a Parent Portal account
Fun games, raffles, and prizes
Victoria Wylie and Andra Dawson of the Keith Dawson Foundation
Today:
Wednesday, July 31 | 10 AM – 2 PM FDR Park – Boathouse Lawn 1500 Pattison Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Friday, August 2 | 10 AM – 2 PM ***A representative from ASERT will be in attendance***Central High School Football Field 1700 W. Olney Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19141 (use field entrances on Somerville Ave.)
Find the full Bus Tour schedule, latest back-to-school updates, immunization opportunities, and other important information at philasd.org/ringthebell or by calling 215-400-4000.
Colette and Sam Gabriele hosted another spectacular Night in Venice Party – Under the SeaPhiladelphia Eagles veteran Brandon Graham family, friends and Cindy Webster on board
Ocean City NJ Night in Venice July 20 2024 The event’s theme is “Summertime Vibes: A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett” Philadelphia Eagles veteran Brandon Graham and his family are special guests. ESPN reporter and host Marty Smith is grand marshal.
BTW Brandon Graham is next level amazing. He was the special guest for OC Night in Venice, stayed until the fireworks. Stopped by the Gabriele party around 10. Then Sunday 6am participating in the Families Behind Badges ride from Philly to AC. WOW
Jewelz Entertainment
Magnificent
NorEaster Nick
Leslie M and Larry Cohen (looking amazing after 140lb loss, on a very strict diet.) It was sooo great to see my old friend. Larry introduced me to Geno Vento about 15 years ago and said you two need to know one another.
Bart and Jil Blatstein
Mike and Michelle
Christopher and Carol Wolfington
Savino and Bernard Hopkins << another old friend. We were going to do a big project together before the pandemic but it never happened. Damn pandemic. Great to see his wife Joy as well.
Adam Panichi and Matt Gabriele
Mike Toub
Jonathan, Lisa, Neena and Piero – See youse in Wildwood later this week!!
Burger in Paradise
Sabrina Thorne, Savino and Carol Tamburino
Don Thomas and Matthew Wetzel of Thomas Matthews Designs CMCH
Rep Amen Brown and Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, Archbishop of Philadelphia.
BLOCS (Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools), the largest scholarship organization in Pa., for prek-12, hosted its 2024 Gala: Lighting Up the Future on May 9, 2024, , at the Crystal Tea Room (100 E Penn Sq.).
Linda Czachor, Theresa Grace, Kathy Kelley and Nancy Gabriele
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the BLOCS Teacher of the Year Award, sponsored by FlynnO’Hara Uniforms. Mr. Shane Taylor from Archbishop Ryan Catholic High School was named the 2024 BLOCS Teacher of the Year. Taylor was nominated by Kyla Carberry, a freshman at Ryan, who is visually impaired. His remarkable impact goes beyond the curriculum as he is credited with empowering students like Kyla to conquer challenges with a blend of support, laughter, and generosity. Taylor teaches math and is a 2015 graduate of Archbishop Ryan.
The Little Flower choir performed during the gala, and music students from St. Hubert and Archbishop Ryan entertained during the cocktail reception.
Chloe Harris, Dominic Ciaverella and Trevor Sino
Viewed as the premiere scholarship organization in PA, BLOCS partners with more than 100 Archdiocesan and more than 300 private Catholic and non-Catholic schools to provide over 17,000 need-based scholarships each year.
Tom Fitti and Katie Rose Thornton
Legendary college basketball coach and champion of Catholic education Phil Martelli emceed the gala, guiding guests through a program filled with inspiration and celebration – his involvement emphasizing the importance of teamwork in achieving educational excellence.
Mike Godown and Rebecca Goodown
“Through our donors, BLOCS is dedicated to raising over $100 million annually in funding because we believe that every child, regardless of financial constraints, deserves a future filled with promise and opportunity,” said Matt McFillin, BLOCS Board Chair. “Our gala celebrates Catholic education and continues to light the future for students and families in the Philadelphia region.”
Legendary college basketball coach and champion of Catholic education Phil Martelli
A lively crowd of more than 300 guests, including dedicated donors, board members, and fervent supporters, gathered to champion BLOCS’ cause. BLOCS donors use their PA tax liability to fund scholarships and receive a 90% tax credit. This is through the establishment of Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs.
BLOCS just launched a user-friendly tax credit calculator, simplifying the process for potential donors to estimate their contribution under the PA Tax Credit program. Those pledging a minimum yearly donation exceeding $3,000 are eligible to enroll. To join the ranks of BLOCS donors and make a difference in a student’s life, go to BLOCS.org/taxcredit and a BLOCS rep will respond.
