Philly Chit Chat

Hello Philly Chit Chat, here I am again apologizing for miss a few entries last week. Thanks for bearing with me, I still have this wicked cold and I like to sleep when I have moments so I’ve been doing a lot of that.

Radnor Hunt Races yesterday. I stopped for a cocktail with friends. Tomorrow I will publish shots of the best
dressed on a muddy, muddy day on ChitChat (Thanks Katie Adams Schaeffer  for this shot)
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Also busy social season. I’ll have to figure out how to stay current while still covering all the fabulous parties and events, here on chitchat, ok let’s get to the Philly Gossip this week.

I’ve been waiting 6 weeks for the filming at Victor’s Cafe ie Adrian’s Cafe in the movie Creed 2. Despite the drenching rain they were able to get what they wanted for the movie as most of the scenes were inside the cafe,

unlike three years ago when many of the scenes were outside. I was so glad I could make it over there on the first day, Thursday, which I tried to coordinate with Jenn Frederick and I doing a hit for Fox 29, but the start time wasn’t until the middle of the day.  (It wasn’t going to work on Friday as Jenn had Jury Duty, and I was covering my client – The Please Touch Museum’s re-branding in the morning)

First I headed to the Centenarian Celebration at Sugarhouse, where the Mayor honored Philly citizens 100 years and older. It’s been on my bucket list for a few years to capture the event. I’ll have more photos later this week on chitchat and CBSPhilly. Then after making a donation of $40 in the Wheel of Fortune, or misfortune on this day, I headed to South Philly and my 2 hour parking spot.

I waited nearly an hour for the table I wanted at Green Eggs Cafe, where I would have a great angle for the coming and goings into Adrian’s, and for lunch cause their food is delicious.

extras in Creed 2, some of them really work at Victor’s Cafe

BTW Green Eggs only take cash, good thing I didn’t spend that last $20 at Sugarhouse.

BTW Cyndi Lauper had dinner at Capital Grille on Wednesday nightAnd has luck would have it, Sly Stallone arrived for the day right in front of where I was sitting.

I appreciate that Sylvester Stallone gave me a great series of shots with eye contact.

I was finishing up my lunch and then Dolph Lundgren rolled in. This was a lot of fun as he was someone I had hoped to see in person. I later found out that Florian was on the set too, but I had left already. I had the HSP Gala and Franklin Square Gala to shoot that evening and needed to get ready. Those photos will be popping up soon as well.

On Instagram I had a little fun with security saying they were mad that I got the photo, they wrote to say they weren’t. And the stories I hear about the security from fans is all good as well, they’ll tell you as much as they can about the filming.

If you’re looking for a certain actor they’ll tell you whether they’re there or not so you don’t have to wait around. Just listen to them, and also don’t try and approach an actor on the set or rush on the set for any reason. There is a no flash photography rule on the set, and they try and discourage photos, but if you take them before the director yells “rolling” you might be fine. Just respect them, and they’ll respect you.

As a seasoned paparazzi in this field some sets sets are very strict, like Silver Lining Playbook with Bradley Cooper & Robert DeNiro, not so much for Limitless with the same actors. Paranoia with Liam Hemsworth and Harrison Ford, sometimes could be tough, but for the most part films shot here in Philly are more laid back then NYC.

The rules are laid down by the big boss, and he was cool with getting photos on the set when I swung by. Watch as security takes a step back so I could get a better shot of Stallone, and thankfully the director Steven Caple Jr.

I was so happy Steven Caple Jr. looked up. I think this is one of my favorite photos at any film shoot. I left right after I got this shot, it doesn’t get any better than this.

OK this is one of my other favorite “paparazzi” shots on a movie set. Harrison Ford on Paranoia (2012). This was at 12th and Walnut, and I shot it through the Starbucks window.

Dolph Lungren (Ivan Drago) and Florian Munteanu (Vicktor Drago) stopped by Rumor nightclub with friends last week.

Henry Winkler, in town for Comic Con stopped by Davio’s for dinner Friday night. He enjoyed the Soft Shell crab feature as an appetizer and pasta. He told the server that he loved the Bolognese the Linguini and Clams. A fan snapped a gotcha photo of her daughter with the Fonz in the background.
BTW who knew there was a Fonzie statue in existence. It’s located in Milwaukee, where Happy Day’s was set in.

NOW GET OUTSIDE the SUN is finally out….chat with you tomorrow….

 

 

 

Every year there is a flurry of excitement leading up to the Kentucky Derby and the many parties surrounding the Trifeca of fun. One of our areas most prominent gatherings is held at Historic West Laurel Hill Cemetery

where they held its sixth Annual Kentucky Derby party on Saturday, May 5, 2018 with a unique charity event, benefiting Gateway HorseWorks.

Geno Vento, Andre, Gina Gannon, Eddie Keels and Ruth Scott
Guests enjoyed Kentucky Derby-inspired fare catered by Southern Cross Kitchen and crafted libations from 13th Street Cocktails and Derby-themed dessert cupcakes by Cupcakes By Ruth.

Davida Janae of Vida Fashionista and Gina Gannon, QVC were judges for the best fascinator…. and the winner is

Sandra Yodesky

Sandra Yodesky at the moment her name was called

Rob Saxon of MANNA won best dressed man, and rightfully so

Raffle winner David Nogar and guest judge Pat Nogar of Living Well

 

Paul Triggiani, Brandon Szeker and Kristen Herrmann

There are two significant derby parties happening this weekend, I’ll be there bring your derby best and
your smile!!

The Radnor Hunt and Preakness at the Piazza

Hope to see you there…

The Avenue of the Arts celebrated its 25th anniversary during an event held at the Doubletree Hotel at Broad & Locust Streets, Philadelphia earlier this month. The event kicked off with a rooftop cocktail reception, where guests enjoyed lite bites and drink on the hotel’s rooftop deck overlooking the Avenue of the Arts and many of its achievements and future projects. 

The Avenue of the Arts is a city designated arts cultural district on a segment of Broad Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, that includes many of the city’s cultural institutions, most notably the theater district south of City Hall. The designation can be found as far south as Washington Avenue and as far north as the Cecil B. Moore neighborhood. The name “Avenue of the Arts” originated in a strategy by mayor Ed Rendell to redevelop South Broad Street in Center City. The Avenue of the Arts originally ran along Broad Street from Locust Street south to Lombard Street. The Avenue’s definition was expanded to North Broad Street by city planners under mayor John F. Street‘s administration to encourage further development in the area.[3] The Avenue of the Arts is overseen by the non-profit organization Avenue of the Arts, Inc. originally led by Executive Director, Karen Lewis (source), and now by Paul Beideman. (There’s also a fun membership social group associated with the Avenue, Friends of the Avenue of the Arts)

The future SLS Hotel and the apartment project slated for Broad & Pine Streets

The Avenue of the Arts is home to renowned performance venues, hotels, eateries,
universities, and residences. There are seven significant new development projects in the works, and the city is investing in the Avenue’s infrastructure.  Avenue of the Arts, Inc. and the Friends of the Avenue of the Arts work to promote investment, beautification, and marketing of the Avenue of the Arts.

Developer Carl Dranoff, who has built many homes on the Avenue of the Arts

Councilman Kenyatta Johnson

John Jarboe, Bearded Ladies Cabaret Founder, entertains the crowd on the rooftop, before leading them downstairs for the reception on the mezzanine.

A great reporter, legendary KYW1060’s Lauren Lipton
Next up for The Bearded Ladies is the Mr. Rogers show at the The Wilma Theater June 20th to July 1st on stage!!!
https://www.facebook.com/events/361645497658455/

Tim Moir – Chair – Friends of the Avenue of the Arts enjoys the showPaul Beideman,President of the Avenue of the Arts, greets the crowd

For more photos from this event check out Philly Style Magazine, Philly Mag (Aug) and next week’s Liberty City Press.

55+ Community – Canvas Valley Forge Opens with a Party

These days it’s not just the millennial who desires a fun environment to live, with attractive amenities and engaging neighbors.   Canvas King of Prussia Town Center opened over the winter, and celebrated with a spring soiree last week. Mike Hirata was on hand to capture all the excitement.

The Team from The Buzzoto Group: Peter Sikora, Jenna Miller, Michele Kearney, Diana Moyer, Nancy Goldsmith, Eileen Dunn, Setareh Tate, Sarah McMeekin, Celeste Curtis, Kenn Sforza, Jenn Cianciarulo, and  Erik Sabotka.

King of Prussia-based general contractor and real estate firm The Buzzoto Group’s created a community for people in the prime time of their lives, noted Pete Sikora, Development Manager for Canvas Valley Forge.

“Canvas Valley Forge is a first of its kind 55-plus community because it allows residents to maintain the lifestyle they’ve grown accustomed to in their large family homes, while breaking free from the costly and time-consuming responsibilities of home ownership,” Sikora said. “Canvas’ thoughtful amenities and brand partnerships allow residents to ‘right-size’ their homes without feeling like they are compromising their holiday traditions or hobbies. Amenities such as a test kitchen welcome guest chefs and house wine, whiskey and beer tastings; the formal dining room can be reserved for large family gatherings or holiday celebrations; the workshop studio allows residents to continue to pursue their passions, or pick up a new hobby; and guest suites are on site for when additional space is needed, allowing residents an unmatched living experience that promotes a vibrant, flexible lifestyle.” (source)

Live painting by Janos Korodi.

Firepit, dog walking, hair salon, pool, community room and much more

Pool time
C0mmunity Room
Lauren Curtis, Barb Glasbrenner, and Celeste Curtis
Donna Parisi and Peter Sikora.

Dave Mandes and Peter Sikora

Residents Sam and Daniel.

Check out all the fun on their Instagram

According to the website, canvasvalleyforge.com, apartment rentals start at $1,995 for a one-bedroom, one bath.

Hello people of chitchat, sorry this is an abbreviate post as I have a wicked cold and it’s keeping me snug in bed. Thankfully the bulk of the Spring Social Season is over, and I have a few days off to recover. Let’s check out today’s post.

Despite the dampness of the day, the spirit was strong at Komen Philadelphia’s Race for the Cure.

Ukee Washington and Jessica Dean were co-hosts of the annual Mother’s Day Event on the Parkway
Elaine I. Grobman, Chief Executive Officer of Komen Philadelphia and Ronald J. Harper, Esq., Harper & Paul. Vice President of Komen Philadelphia

Check out Liberty City Press next week to see which notables I spotted at the Race for the Cure

We made it through the week, and it’s time to see what Creed 2 is up to .

Monday, Rocky attended a funeral of a former opponent from Rocky (1), and he appeared in Rocky 6 as well. The scene was filmed in Point Breeze at 20th & Ellesworth. Rocky headed into a church located at the corner there, jumping out of his white van, which co-starred in Creed. Tuesday Creed 2 filmed at Girard College. I love this shot of Sylvester Stallone looking at me, so bummed director Steve Caple Jr.  was looking down. Word on the street is he got this suit from Joseph A Banks

Wednesday the production headed to 3400 Aramingo, to the Delphi Gym, which was a gym they used in the first Creed as well. Only Michael B Jordan was on set. Seems Sly headed to the Barnes Museum (they have a cool father son exhibit), the Ronald McDonald House and was seen at the Whole Foods in Callowhill.

After filming ended Wednesday night, Michael B Jordan headed in the crowd and posed with fans.

Thursday I headed over to Delphi to get the check out what the set looked like Plus I heard Sly would be there around 10AM, thanks to my tipsters who keep me filled in. Sure enough after about an hour on the set I got a glimpse of both starts.

The scene is set in California, as all the license plates of the cars on the set were California tags. A few of the extras were filmed getting tacos at the food truck, wearing colorful shorts and shirts, as only they do in LA. In this shot are the hardest working Pa’s in Philly. The guy with the beard has been one of the lead Pa’s on so many of the film shoots for the past decade.

I believe Jordan as Adonis was practicing for a fight, or was participating in a fight as some of the extras had cameras and seem to be “working” the fight.(I guess this gym is called Apollo Creed)

Sly Stallone getting freshen for the next scene

Michael B. Jordan comes out for air. Shooting through my car window was not a good idea.

Did you know there’s another film being filmed in Philly.  The Nomads Movie. It’s about an inner city rugby team. It’s based on a true story and stars Tad Donohue and Tika Sumpter.
The movie is being produced by Game Changing Films, here in Philadelphia.

The “Miss Atkins Army,” is filming right now in Philadelphia. This makes the 3rd filming filming in Philly right now. PhillyWood is hot and happening.  The movie by Sarah Megan Thomas, who did two other movies here including the successful “Equity” about two years ago, will be filming in our area May 9-17, 2018. The movie is a period Piece- (WW2!) and Heery Lofus Casting sent out a call a few weeks ago for extras. The men must have shorter hair, and clean shaven. Women must NOT have tinted or dyed hair. Filming began in late April, at the Art Alliance on Rittenhouse Square. This week they filmed in Spring Garden, where the above shot was taken of actress Radhika Apte and Stana Katic.
There is only 3 more weeks left of filming for Creed 2, so if you want to be in a scene on Tuesday night, a disco/dance/club scene I hear, email creed2casting@gmail.com cause Heery Loftus Casting is looking for you.
Don’t hesitate, it’s fun. I did it once. If it was the social season I would send an email myself.

About last night, a few of us celebrated Rene Kobeitri , owner of Rim Cafe’s birthday. To say it was a fun time was an understated with this crew.
He and his lady, Belle, are one of the nicest couples around. I wasn’t surprised that the street was filled with friends and family wishing Rene a lot of love. Check out that canolli birthday cake. Have a sweet day, see you back here on Sunday. I think Saturday I will post a link to all the media outlets I was published in this week. I know I’ve been a slacker about that.

Spring Festival on South Street – Scene on South Street Last Weekend

Meet me on South Street said tens of thousands of festival goers on the first major warm spring festival day of the year. On Saturday, May 5th, South Street hosted the largest crowds ever for the six year festival. Official estimates will be available after meetings with organizers, the city, event planners and vendors, but South Street Headhouse District confirmed this surpassed last year by 10,000-15,000 people and minimally is over 50,000.

Michael Harris, Executive Director of SSHD, said, “It was wonderful to see such a nice and diverse crowd out enjoying all South Street has to offer at our 6th Annual Spring Fest. All tallies indicated it was our biggest but also our best yet, and we saw a great blend of festival goers from immediate neighbors to out of town visitors who had never been to Philadelphia and South Street before. Great food, music, art, and drinks on a perfect festival-weather day. It really struck me this year how much out of town traffic – as I met so many people on the street who said they came in for the day or weekend just for the festival. We talked to at least five different families and groups that were staying in local hotels in Center City – and we are thankful to bring in business for the city – but also for all the concierge and hotel referrals.”

 

Fun bacherlorette party at South Street Spring Fest

South Street Spring Festival was in a unique position heading into the day – the warmest festival day of the spring of the year, plus it was a day of mini-celebrations and festivals within the festival. Cinco de Mayo, Maifest outside Brauhaus Schmitz, Kentucky Derby Day, National Free Comic Book Day and much more. 

Cinco de Mayo, Maifest outside Brauhaus Schmitz

Mad Rex Restaurant and Virtual Reality Lounge debuted at South Street Spring Festival and provided free virtual games and experiences for hundreds of guests – “South Street Spring Festival was a unique way to bring our brand to tens of thousands of people from all walks of life in Philadelphia. We partner with South Street Headhouse District to provide free virtual reality right on the street in a pop-up lounge in the National Free Comic Book area. We are thankful for the opportunity to connect with the city’s largest name festival – and to engage with so many potential new patrons and fans,” said Michael Johnigean, Partner. “The turn-out far exceeded our expectations – as did the number of people we engaged with. We had a line for the virtual reality chairs consistently throughout the day.”
Mom-Mom’s Kitchen & Polish Food Cart reported their best year ever at South Street Spring Festival – saying they saw more people and they brought more food than ever before – as they now have a brick and mortar restaurant they operate out of their new Mom-Mom’s Kitchen at  2551 Orthodox St, Philadelphia, PA 19137 in Bridesburg.

Michael Sultan of 33rd Street Hospitality, who brought Revolution Taco Truck, reported their biggest sales ever at the event – selling every single last taco they brought. “We had a line the entire day from 11am to the final tacos being served late in the afternoon. It was the perfect way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo for us – and the new Revolution Taco Truck let us be in two places at once. South Street Spring Festival is a must on our spring list of events and its definitely the ultimate spring festival in the city that everyone comes out for.” Revolution Taco also sold out at Friday night at Schmidt’s Commons for the Cinco kick-off at the launch of First Friday Salsa Night – and they hosted their first ever Cinco BBQ with the grill outside their shop at 2015 Walnut.

Puyero Venezuelan Flavor was a new participant this year – co-owner Simon Arends said, “We were excited to participate but didn’t know what to expect as a new business. We are a fast casual eatery and did extremely well inside last year during the festival. This year business was booming all day in the dining room, and we sold out of every last arepa that we had on the street – we far surpassed our expections. We are already discussing our plans and what to do different next year.”

Also, as a huge surprise to the city- Bridget Foy’s which was recently torn down after a fire and total loss, was back and wouldn’t miss a year. The entire Foy family popped up a giant RV on the construction site at 2nd and South Street and held “court” visiting with thousands of guests and showing off the brand new renovation plans for their new restaurant – which is expected to open in the next 8 to 12 months.  South Street Spring Festival is coordinated by South Street Headhouse District, with music programming by DVT Entertainment who handles the 20+ bands on the 3 stages, with event management services by Mark Beyerle and his company SpecialtyUSA, LLC , and PR, social media and marketing services by Kory Aversa and Aversa PR. DVT, SpecialtyUSA and Aversa all returned and worked together on several of the prior year festivals. On top of the nice weather, Aversa PR reported the highest number of print, radio and TV mentions in advance for the day, including “This was the single most TV and radio we have ever secured for a one day festival in a 24 hour period. The interest was so high from around the city, Philadelphia wanted to get out and enjoy the weather, and the product was exceptional.” said Kory Aversa. All four local TV stations extensively covered the event on Fox 29, CBS 3, ABC 6 and NBC 10, with radio partnerships and mentions on Ben FM, WMGK, The Fanatic, WMMR, WDAS, iHeart, KYW and more.

Pocono Raceway, Dover International Speedway and Comcast came together for the third consecutive year to bring NASCAR to the city of Philadelphia.

The NASCAR Xfinity Philadelphia Takeover brought 22 drivers across 12 teams to the city to greet fans and promote the upcoming NASCAR Xfinity Series race in the Philadelphia market.

NASCAR Xfinity Series drivers participating include: Christopher Bell, Spencer Boyd, Chase Briscoe, Ross Chastain, Austin Cindric, Cole Custer, Jeffrey Earnhardt, Spencer Gallagher, Joey Gase, Kaz Grala, Daniel Hemric, Brandon Jones, Shane Lee, Dylan Lupton, Ty Majeski, Vinnie Miller, Matt Mills, John-Hunter Nemechek, Ryan Reed, Garrett Smithley, Ryan Truex, JJ Yeley

Yoga at Dilworth Park
The cars then took a spin around the City, before visiting landmarks like Geno’s Cheesesteaks, Reading Terminal and taking in the view of the City from The Liberty One Observation Tower

Stratus, the rooftop bar at Hotel Monaco, 433 Chestnut St., held their annual Spring Awakening Party to celebrate the upcoming  warmer weather which seemed to blossom the evening of the soiree.

There were two DJs and a seven-piece band at the party. Worldtown Soundsystem will play “high-energy, live, house music that fuses electronic dance with global rhythms.”

Guests enjoyed specialty cocktails,

craft beer and menu items as they enjoyed the night atmosphere and

music vibes.

 Happy Hour specials daily, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

$5 Prosecco
$5 Red and white house wine
$10 specialty cocktails
$5 domestic beer and $6 craft beer
½ price bottles off our bottle menu (not including wine)

Thanks to Tayla Hailey for shooting this for PhillyChitChat and Stratus Lounge

Stratus Lounge was one of the first roof top lounges to open a few years back, joining popular spots on 18th Street near Chestnut like Vango, and The Continental.
Last year The Assembly at The Logan Hotel opened, but it’s much more chill with a view, then dancing.
The dress code at Status is chill.
All attire is welcome with the exception of flip flops, ripped or baggy clothing, sweatshirts, hoodies, sports apparel, athletic wear, tank tops, hiking boots, and athletic shoes such as basketball and running shoes. Collared shirts, dress shoes, and blazers are highly encouraged. Low profile, all black sneakers (white soles excluded) are allowed, provided it is complemented by what is encouraged. Dress shorts are permitted during the summer season (no cargo or athletic shorts).

Stratus Lounge is open Wednesday to Saturday. There’s a great outdoor rooftop space as well as three large lounges to hang in in case of in climate weather. Great place to hang out with friends, meet new friends, and dance in the night air.

Wed	5:00 pm – 12:00 am
Thu	5:00 pm – 12:00 am
Fri	5:00 pm – 2:00 am
Sat	7:00 pm – 2:00 am

Movie News, Stallone Sightings, Eagles Around, and more gossip

What a beautiful day Saturday turned into. I hope you were out and about enjoying it. I headed to South Street’s Spring Festival, those photos will be popping up everywhere tomorrow. Then I went to West Laurel Hill Cemetery for their annual Derby Party. You’d think it’d be creepy to have an event in a cemetery, but they have a very nice event space, and the cemetery is also an arboretum as well, and the trees are in full bloom.  Let’s get to the gossip..

Seasoned character actress Jennifer Butler is in the move The Nomads, which is filming here in Philadelphia. Yes another movie besides Creed. We actually have 3 movies filming in town right now – Creed 2, The Nomads and Untitled Female Driven WW II Spy Thriller starring Sarah Megan Thomas, who also filmed Equity here, which is about to become a TV Series, congrats to Sarah who was born in the Philly area.  Jennifer is with Tate Donovan, who you’ll remember I wrote about last week when he was spotted at Hop Sing Laundromat

Speaking of films M. Night Shyamalan stopped by CBS3Philly Thursday and filmed additional scenes for Glass, with news legend Ukee Washington playing himself. Last night Night was sitting court-side with Zach Ertz at the Sixers, but that didn’t bring the luck. Bummed, but hey we really didn’t think they’d get this far, and I’m delighted.

“Let’s Get Ready to Rumble” Michael Buffer, an American ring announcer for boxing and professional wrestling matches was on set this week with legendary referee Kenny Bayless, known for his catchphrase which he says to fighters before the bell rings  “What I say you must obey,” were on set for Creed 2 as they filmed scenes at The Liacouras Center

Thursday night Sylvester Stallone had dinner at Barra Rossa at 10th and Walnut. He’s here with owner Dan Morris.

Wednesday Stallone stopped by Foot Locker on Chestnut Street to buy some running shoes, to the delight of the workers. He posed with them and even did a shadow boxing video.

Last week Eagles new tight end Dallas Goedert and his parents stopped by DelFrisco’s this week for dinner.
Padua Academy will welcome Roma Downey as the 2018 Women of Achievement honoree on May 2, 2108, at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. The event was Emceed by Pat Ciarrocchi. Rooted in the Catholic faith, Padua Academy offers young women a transformational college preparatory education, challenging them to live Christ-centered lives of leadership and service.

Congrats to Monica Malpass for being featured in SJ Magazine and for her

walk on The Runway for CHOP’s Daisy Days on May 1. Check out more photos from the event on Philly Voice.

Speaking of service Tony Luke’s is giving away FREE Chicken Cheesesteaks to all Active Military every Friday in May. Check out their website for locations

 

HughE news. I recently decided to return to Fox29 Good Day after contributing to CBS3Philly for about 10 months. I loved my time at CBS3Philly, but really missed my Fox29 family as I had been there for 6 years. No matter where I would go in Philly, even yesterday on South Street, Fox 29 viewers would tell me how much they loved my work at Fox 29.  So going forward I will be contributing to Fox again with photos and content, and occasionally appearing on the show. I don’t think I realized what an exclusive to one station meant, and had to turn down some things because I was in an exclusive. I’ve been used to sharing my stuff with everyone, it’s always been my mantra. I’ve come to learn that every media outlet has their own audience, and some of it over laps. Going back to Fox allows me to pop up at other stations when the moment arises ie car driving down the Art Museum Steps, celebrities I’ve photographed in Philly and the occasional times I’ve traveled to the Big Apple to participate in 6ABC trips and my yearly sledders on the Art Museum Steps shots for Cecily and Adam. Even with all the snow this year, we didn’t get enough snow for a shot. Thanks again to CBS3Philly for the opportunity. I’ll miss my photo column, I did some great work there.