Philly Chit Chat

Crazy Props Sighted at the East Passyunk Car Show

The East Passyunk Car Show and Festival celebrated 13 years of auto heaven for car enthusiasts.  Up to 14,000 people attended this past weekend’s East Passyunk Avenue Car Show and Street Festival, where a record 227-plus cars were parked along the avenue, East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District (EPABID) officials said.

I love shooting this event not only because of the cool cars, and the obvious hard work the car owners put into their passion, but because of the fun props they place in their car. Let’s see what they have today…
This guy had Eagles legend Vince Papale sign his engine
And someone else I couldn’t read
Thanks Jefferson Health for sponsoring the EPA Car Show
I hear the Cider is delicious

Check out more photos, and a great article here on the Phila Biz Journal

InBox: More Info On Fashion District Philadelphia

I used to call these kinda posts Press Releases, but I see Billy Penn & PBJ use this term and it’s more concise.
I don’t always have time to paraphrase press releases of info I think you really want to know about so to save time. PS word italicized are my comments.

Inbox: More Info On Fashion District Philadelphia
It’s not going to be done as soon as first reported. It’s not going to open up in phases, but all at once in
September 2019.
It’ll be worth the wait. Fashion District Philadelphia is going to be a great addition to Philly, and a tourist destination.

Philadelphia, PA – August 1, 2018 – Fashion District Philadelphia, (FDP)a joint venture partnership between Macerich and PREIT, today unveils a series of impactful project milestones, including dynamic tenants and community programming reflective of the vision and significant nature of this project’s impact and reach in Philadelphia. With over 650,000 square feet of space, or more than 80%, leased or in active negotiations, the new additions create a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, socializing and playing, cementing the next generation of consumer experiences. As the retail landscape evolves to further integrate lifestyle and dining concepts, the project has advanced its tenancy to reflect the brand pillars in four key areas in one operating platform: Style, Dining, Entertainment, and Arts & Culture.

Fashion District Philadelphia will deliver a robust retail and entertainment offering unlike any other in downtown Philadelphia. Spanning three city blocks, it will feature over 800,000 square feet of dynamic offerings, including flagship, traditional full price, off-price and branded outlet retail, destination dining and entertainment, along with public art and evolving cultural events.

With a prime location in Center City, Fashion District Philadelphia is just steps away from Philadelphia’s historic district and connected to Reading Terminal, the Pennsylvania Convention Center and SEPTA’s Jefferson station – offering convenience and accessibility for millions of Philadelphia residents, commuters and visitors.

Filbert Street will come alive with some of the following eateries lining the street

Dining highlights include: City Winery, a culinary and cultural wine experience offering intimate concerts, food and wine classes, private events and fine dining in a city setting, marking the brand’s seventh location in the country (30,000 square feet of fun, food and performances); Dallas BBQ, a casual dining experience representing the brand’s first restaurant outside of New York City;

Dallas BBQ is a NYC staple famous for affordable chicken & ribs and texas-size frozen drinks. Dallas BBQ is Proudly employee-owned in New York City (Mike and I LOVE Dallas BBQ);

Market Eats, a collection of restaurants and eateries through a partnership with Aramark to add a modern grab-n-go food market with access to SEPTA’s Jefferson Station offering Chickie’s & Pete’s, Chick-fil-A (It’ll be closed on Sunday), Oath Pizza, Burger Fi (interesting they’re putting a Burger Fi there as there’s one at 12th & Filbert already), Pei Wei (Yeah no more going to Cherry Hill for noodle bowl), Freshii (Maybe it’ll have better success here, there was one across from City Hall, but it closed after 2 years) and la Madeleine.  (This is in the concourse)

As part of its effort to deliver an engaging atmosphere ripe with social experiences, Fashion District will feature a dedicated third-floor entertainment zone. A second entertainment operator will join AMC Theatres – Center City’s first movie theater since 2002 – offering in-theater dining, reclining seats, and a bar.

It’s pretty, I can’t wait. It’ll be a great addition to Market Street, which can be zombie paradise after 7PM. I always feel sorry for the tourists trying to looking for exciting Philly while navigating Market Street which rolls up it’s sidewalk after 6PM.

Currently opened at Fashion District Philadelphia is Burlington, and Century 21 in the 800 block of Market Street. Head on down there and
support these great stores while we all wait for the FDP to open. Check out these articles on this weeks announcements
Macerich
KYW1060
WHYY

 

HughE Around Town: What’s New Walnut Street – A Lot Of New Retail, Celebrity Sightings, Crazy Asians

When one door closes another one opens seems to be the mantra on Walnut Street. A few weeks back I was reporting on suddenly closed shops, and then yesterday during my around town I noticed three new shops coming.

Now this is exciting, and hopefully will stay open passed 9PM, now that Barnes & Noble Rittenhouse has changed their hours.
Shakespeare & Co. Booksellers 1632 Walnut Street (formerly Bank Werx ). Publishers. Café shakeandco.com

There’s one in NYC and a recent Google reviewer said: I love wandering through this small, vibrant bookstore. The book selection is impressive given the size, and I especially like the greeting cards. Frequent events with authors and their own book club. Printing services, including consultations, available as well.   The cafe has the best staff, so I always feel welcome. The coffee is delicious, and the vegan chocolate chip cookies actually melt in your mouth. Prices are consistent with other area coffee shops: coffee for 2.25, tea for 2.50, sandwiches ~9, legendary cookies 2.50.

Scotch and Soda is a Dutch fashion retail company founded in 1985. Beginning as a men’s wholesale brand; Scotch & Soda was bought by Eric Bijlsma, Patrick Munsters and Joep Krouwels. It’s opening at 1705 Walnut Street, the former home of Michael Kors

Now Opened Brandy & Melville – The hottest fashion for teens says Business Insider An Italian brand which has people fawning over simple women’s knits, tops, bottoms, bags and accessories just opened at 1527 Walnut Street

‘Crazy Rich Asians’ Author Kevin Kwan and stars Gemma Chan and Jimmy O. Yang pose with a fan while buying free mac and cheese for customers at Mac Mart. (provided)

(L to R) Actor Jimmy O. Yang and ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ author Kevin Kwan learn how to make Barclay Prime’s $120 Cheesesteak with Executive Chef Mark Twersky. Photo Credit: Marissa Evans, Starr Restaurants
Wish I could have caught the preview on Monday night, looks hysterical
Opens nationwide August 15, 2018

@djkhaled stopped by @GenosSteaks Monday Night after opening for @Beyonce & Jay-Z for their On the Run II tour.
Arriving in his custom white Maybach Landaulet he posed with fans, hung out with @GenoPHL crew & ordered the classic “Whiz With.” 📸@jimmywhispers3 #phillygossip He went to Max’s as well. He must love cheesesteaks

When Mike Masco isn’t reporting on the weather or traffic for Fox 29, he can be found on his dragon. I noticed that Real Housewives of NJ star Melissa Gorga likes what she sees on his instagram. You have to follow Mike on Twitter, his weather forecasting is in-depth, and often quite funny. @MikeMasco

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InBox: Press Releases that Might Be of Interest to You

Speaking about floats: There’s a day to celebrate everything – Monday August 6 is Root Beer Float Day.
In celebration of the 35th anniversary of the partnership between Marriott International and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia invites locals and guests alike to partake in a Root Beer Float Day on Monday, August 6, 2018, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, 10 Avenue of the Arts, Philadelphia PA. The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia will offer complimentary root beer floats to guests in exchange for a donation to the Children’s Miracle Network, which distributes funds to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Guests and locals can enjoy a complimentary Root Beer Float in the main lobby of the hotel property (Broad Street entrance). During the week of August 6, participating Marriott International hotels throughout the United States and Canada will host root beer floats fundraising activities with the proceeds going directly to local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Root Beer Float Day is a nod to Marriott’s beginnings when company founder, Bill Marriott, Sr., and his wife Alice opened two root beer stands in Washington, D.C., in the 1920s. “We wouldn’t be the organization we are today without the support of Marriott as our longest-standing corporate partner,” said John Lauck, president and CEO, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. “Marriott associates and guests are among the most passionate fundraisers we have.” Marriott associates and guests have raised $120 million in the last 35 years. The company fundraises through a variety of events and activities. “Our hotel is delighted to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals with Root Beer Float Day. Who doesn’t love a classic root beer float? Our hotel property will personally make a donation to Children’s Miracle Network on behalf of our Ladies and Gentlemen. These proceeds are distributed locally to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia,” said Leonard Buckley, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia.

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City Announces Programming Lineup for Philly Free Streets on North Broad on 8/11/18

PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Jim Kenney today announced the programming highlights for the third Philly Free Streets program happening on August 11 from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. During remarks on North Broad Street, City officials touted the community collaboration that has led to this year’s programming.  From free admission to cultural institutions, to a beach on North Broad Streets, to a scavenger hunt on North Broad’s vibrant African American history, Philly Free Streets will have an array of programming available for those who walk, run, play, bike, and explore the route. To view the full listing of programs, visit http://www.phillyfreestreets.com/programming.

See you tomorrow for more PhillyChitChat

On Wednesday, July 11, Paoli-based Turn5 held the 6th Annual Philly Tech Dinner, a networking event for a large group of the city’s tech entrepreneurs and investors. The dinner was founded by 

Paul Martino, managing partner at Bullpen Capital; Chris Fralic, a partner at First Round; and Wayne Kimmel, managing partner at SeventySix Capital, who identified a need for a more formalized gathering after having run-ins and conversations on the go on Amtrak or at the airport. At the event, New York-based performance artist duo the Bumby’s, were onsite to judge the appearance of guests in a hilarious manner – using complete silence and typewriters.   

Guest enjoyed interacting with The Bumbys, New York-based performance artist duo who were onsite to judge the appearance of guests in a hilarious manner – using complete silence and typewriters. 

Some of the guest trying out their skills on Turn5’s full-size bowling alley. 

Starting out a business in their parents’ basement more than 15 years ago, co-founding brothers Steve Voudouris and Andrew Voudouris now run a thriving business at the forefront of the aftermarket auto retail industry. They are dedicated and committed entrepreneurs. Providing excellent customer service and an incredible shopping experience are their main objectives, which have allowed AmericanMuscle and ExtremeTerrain to flourish as well and as quickly as they have over the years.

 

Philly Style BOS Annual Party 2018 “Style in the Land of Oz”

Good Monday Morning, I hope everyone had a beautiful weekend. Speaking of beautiful, I took a break from my summer vacation to cover the gorgeous, glamorous Best of Style Gala on Thursday night. Friday I did a quick blog post on best dressed theme, and what a great theme “Style in the Land of Oz”

Guests enjoyed an array of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts by local “Best of Style” winners, in addition to live entertainment from CTO and an exclusive casino room presented by Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. All proceeds from the casino room will benefit the MGM Resorts Foundation, which is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others through charitable giving. The 2018 “Best of Style” party is presented by the Delaware Valley Audi Dealers and Audi of America.

There were many many people who looked amazing that I didn’t get to photograph, but the following photos are the people I did capture who embody sophistication, style as well as a serious business side who are creating a buzz in the metropolitan Philadelphia region

Looking stunning Anne Nikolaus  and Lindsay Weiner, special ed teacher has been traveling over the summer visiting Israel and California, but she is looking forward to
seeing the kids soon.
Maxine Bograd and Joseph Bograd
Real Estate, developer working on this game changing project
“LUX Pointe at The Pier”
The First Gated Waterfront Townhome Community in The History of Philadelphia is less than 30 Days from going #LIVE
Call Joseph B. Bograd (267)246-9729 for
pre-construction pricing.
16 Sold thus far

Michael Maglio, custom men’s wear at Domenico and Robin Carter, Real Estate
Kim Frick and Christina DiFulvio had a fabulous summer, but is looking forward to attending
The 2018 Vendemmia Festival in October.
Aida Sparta, guest, Stacey Kracher and Lisa Parker
Ben Cross, Rosemary Connors of NBC10, Alissa Frick, Fox 29 and Tony Frick

Fashion Slayers: Anthony Adams, Drew Carballo, GM Scarpetta Philadelphia, Brandon M. Morrison – Chief Operating Officer – PRDC Properties and Keithington Reed, Stylist

Rahel Solomon, morning anchor at CBS3Philly and Rob Wasserman longtime owner of Rouge, the legendary Rittenhouse Square boîte that Neil Stein opened in 1998,
who recently acquired Twenty Manning and Audrey Claire on 20th Street.

Sara Angus and Murray Angus, CEO Variety
Representative Jared G. Solomon and Tiffani Solomon, director and senior counsel for employment and litigation for Louis Vuitton in New York are about to celebrate their one year anniversary. Ann Catania, Ten Pennies, guest, Terry D’orsio, Lauren Colabelli and Dr. Thanja Hamilton

Lauren Rahman and Celine’s mom gets a night out – Amber-Joi Watkins
Sam Trasatti, personal trainer, Stacey Kennedy and Nazanin Saedi, MD 
Dayna Iman and Laila Iman
Kristin Ciarnella and Carmine Rego got this snazzy suit in NYC
The Power Brokers: John Westrum, who brought his adorable twin daughters with him, Lauren Colabelli, John Colabelli, Publisher, Philadelphia Style Magazine and Councilman Allan Domb

Katie and Meg Westrum are identical twins. Katie is in the green Nicole Miller dress.

Philanthropic couple Dana Spain and Walt Moore

Francesca Ruscio who recently moved to LA to pursue her acting career, returned home to act in the film “Made in Chinatown” which has been filming in our area since the begining of July, and Carla Ruscio

The happiest, most inspirational people in the world:
Thomas Ashley and Danielle Ashley

Dr. Jason Weigner and Ashley Diliberto, Esq. head out for the after party at Zee Bar. 
I headed home with sweet memories of the Emerald City on my mind.

HughE Around Town: Sean Penn Spotted, Denise Nakano Inked, Billy Joel

I hope I’m going to see you at East Passyunk’s Car Show today. I hear it’s the only decent day of the week. Let’s see what’s happening around town..

Friday night I went to see Billy Joel at Citizen Bank Park. It was the first time I saw a concert there as I thought the venue was too big. I had seen Bruce Springsteen at the Linc before the Eagles even set foot on the turf, and it was terrible. Since then I hear they’ve adjusted the acoustics. Anywhoo, wow CBP is a great place to see a concert. I really enjoyed it. I love my seats as well in section 139 row 18. Thanks to Nick & Thanuja for my birthday present. In another right place, right time both my affiliates did stories based on social media posts. I really love contributing to CBS3Philly and Fox 29. In fact Friday was my 7th year with Fox29.

I ran into a lot of people at the concert including Marcie & Val, Renee Patrone

and a super nice Philly Chit Chat reader. I wish I had gotten her name. I really appreciate when readers stop me to say hi.

Jeremy Piven stopped by WMMR before his show at Punchline last week. He also had dinner at Wm. Mulherin’s Sons in Fishtown as well.

Actor Sean Penn was spotted at Stratus Lounge last night. DJ Royale keep the crowd grooving all night long

Philly-based performer  A.R.T. is shooting the music video for his first single FRIENDZONE.  Spotted at Pipeline-Dilworth Plaza last week, the musician, several comedians,  and crew gathered to grab shots for the hilarious video inspired  by the 1992 movie “Boomerang” starring Eddie Murphy.  The video will be release in August. https://www.iamratedart.com

Congrats to Dr. Jennifer N. Caudle on her engagement Thursday night at Parc. The glowing duo was spotted at the fabulous Philly Style Magazine party right afterwards. Now that’s the way to celebrate!!

Happy Birthday to my buddy Geno Vento, who was feted with not one party, but two. Neither of which I could make, which was sad. He did stop by my birthday party last week and I was so happy to see him, and his beau Andre. Get ready to be able to buy Geno’s Hot Sauce, which is now available at Geno’s Steaks. It’s so hot, and delicious, but have a glass of water near by.

NBC10’s anchor Denise Nakano debut her artistic side this weekend after giving her co-anchor, friend weatherman Steve Sosna a charcoal drawing of him and his husband Jonathan D. Lovitz.
While her husband Paul, got a little ink work down himself.

In the lighten up category, I gave Mamma Mia 2 a  halfway thumbs up pass, but after listening to the Onion’s Review I need to lighten up. I think you’ll enjoy it.

 

PhillyStyleMag Party 2018: The Wonderful World of Oz

Notable socialites, dignitaries and celebrities enjoyed an evening of extravagance with the annual Philadelphia Style Best of Style gala at the Kimmel Center last night.  Guests enjoyed an array of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts by local “Best of Style” winners, in addition to live entertainment from CTO and an exclusive casino room presented by Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. All proceeds from the casino room will benefit the MGM Resorts Foundation, which is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others through charitable giving. The 2018 “Best of Style” party is presented by the Delaware Valley Audi Dealers and Audi of America.

The invite only guest list was over 1000 strong so I’m going to do two PCC columns, one today and the other Monday.
Today I’m going to focus on the fabulous themed night, and how people dressed the theme.
I asked a few of the guests “If the Scarecrow asked for a brain, and the Tin Man for a heart, what would you ask the wizard?”

Andrea Ronton (The peacock earring Andrea said she wishes she could fly) and Shaldeara Bailey (while Shaldeara would like to be telepathic, but understands it might actually be dangerous to know what others think.)
Marie Campanile
Carol Tamburino always gets in the spirit

Kevin Parker, CEO at Philadelphia Fashion Week / FBH The Agency dressing on point with those glitter shoes .
Kevin tells me Phila Fashion Week is scheduled for 9/24 – 9/29
The Jewelz Entertainment gals are looking amazing.
Maj Toure and Erin Elmore looking fabulous as the yellow brick road

The Beautiful News Women of Philly
Jeannette Reyes, 6ABC, Rahel Solomon, CBSPhilly, Brittany Shipp, NBC10 and Melissa Magee, 6ABC

Event FX did the green towers of Emerald city, the gnarly trees of the enchanted forest

Natalie Egenolf, Sports Update Anchor | Digital & Social Media Correspondent at 97.5 FM The Fanatic Philadelphia
a perfect Tin Man

Scott Allison and Kate Beaver
Scarpetta had the most delicious mushroom dish
Michelle Leonard never disappoints in her fashion slay right down to her ruby red slippers and picnic basket with Toto

Check out additional photos at CBSPhilly and on Monday the Best Dressed of the Best of Style.

HughE Around Town: Spotted Chase Utley at Starbucks, New Midtown Eateries

It may be gloomy out, but we still have a timeline filled of friends photos in exotic places, right?

Not so gloomy, a reader spotted Chase Utley at the Starbucks at 18th and Spruce Streets yesterday afternoon. Thanks Abby Wanger for being a PhillyChitChat celebrity spotter.

Made In Chinatown filmed at Kanella on 2nd Street earlier this week where this photo was taken. Timothy Chivalette, Tony Ray Rossi, Shing Ka (producer/friend), Mark V Wiley (writer), Vincent Pastore, Robert “Bobby” Samuels (director), and Jay Kwon (lead)
Wednesday filming was in the Italian Market. The Philly Voice has a great article on the film, which has been in town since early July, where it started filming in Chinatown.

Also spotted cool new “bar stools” outside the soon to be open Tradesman restaurant on the 1300 block of Chestnut Street.  Craft Concepts Group is looking forward to opening their BBQ place in early August.
On my walk around town I noticed a new eatery called Midtown, where Penn 6 used to be in Midtown Village. An employee told me they have already had their soft opening, with the official opening coming in weeks. Best of luck, I’ve always love that spot.
The new Target in Northern Liberties, located near 6th and Spring Garden at 456 N. 5th St., is set to open on Aug. 19.
It’s much larger than the recently opened urban stores down town, and in Franklintown. It’ll be an added bonus to the neighborhood.

Tomorrow I’ll have my picks for Best Dressed at The Philly Style Magazine Party.

Vacation Day in Lancaster

I’m having a great summer, although I am eager for the Fall Social Season to start again. I miss people. yesterday I saw a lot of cows.

I love traveling to the Lancaster area a couple times a year to photograph it, as well as shop.
I wanted to go yesterday as it was going to be a cloudy, stormy day, but not all day.
I usually go when it’s sunny

I can’t decide whether I like this in color

or black and white

Then I looked to my right and saw this unfold. Love that garden. Hope I didn’t steal their souls
adorable farm yard


The trick to getting the best shots in Amish country is to take the smaller roads that  wind their way between the farms. This is actually a smaller one, but they go even smaller than this.
This is Pennsylvania Route 897, which lies on either side of RT 322.
Breathtaking countryside

The countryside is beautiful

Liberty Cannabis Opens Their Medical Dispensary in Philly

Liberty Cannabis celebrated the grand opening of its flagship medical dispensary in Philadelphia, with two additional locations in West Norriton and Bensalem. Elevating the medical cannabis experience with cutting-edge products, knowledgeable “Wellness Guides” and modern, inviting interiors, Liberty sister company Holistic Farms has also opened a 110,000 sq ft facility to supply its dispensaries and serve patients’ needs across the state.

Liberty parent company Holistic Industries — it’s licensed in Pennsylvania as Holistic Farms — started just down
the East Coast, with the first cultivation and processing license in Washington, DC in 2012. Currently operating
medical facilities in five states, the company will have 15 dispensaries and over 500,000 sq ft of commercial
space by the end of 2018 for its groundbreaking cultivation, extraction, production and dispensary operations.

Guests included Department of Health representatives, government officials, recommending physicians, local community leaders, members of the press, and nonprofit partners committed to cancer research and support groups.

In the past members of my family who were receiving chemo or suffered from glaucoma used medical marijuana to alleviate their symptoms. Sometimes it’s the only thing that worked for them. I’m glad to see dispensaries like Liberty coming into existence.

Thanks to Andre Flewellen for photographing the Liberty Cannabis grand opening of its flagship medical dispensary in Philadelphia.
Read more about the company in this recent Philadelphia Inquirer article.