Good Sunday Morning. Get out today and enjoy it, looks like we’re in for a week of clouds. Babies and more babies were born this week after that cold, ok not so cold, but cozy winter we just had. My dad, and OBGYN, always told me that August, September and October were the busiest months for babies being born and now with FB birthday notices I can tell he was right.
Congrats to Christie and Brandon Mandia for the birth of their cherub. Seriously look at that amazing blond hair on Kross Julian Mandia. He’s definitely gonna be a lady killer in about 15 years.
Congrats Wendy and Pete Caperonis on the birth of Cailey Adele Caperonis, so precious. Look how happy their pooch is, so excited to have a baby sister.
From babies to babes; Sports anchor/reporter Kristen Rodgers is heading to Philly to join Fox 29’s sports team, after Howard Eskin departed earlier this year. Go welcome Kristen to Philly on twitter
Philadelphia’s Geoff Gross, President of Medical Alert was out in Lala Land playing basketball with Bill Walton.
Spotted: Malcolm Jenkins and a few teammates eating gigantic steaks at Del Frisco’s on Thursday Night.
The Goldbergs Night at the Phillies
Series creator and Philadelphia area native Adam Goldberg will be on hand. Barry Goldberg, alongside Troy Gentile, who plays Barry in the series, will throw out the Ceremonial First Pitch. Phillies-themed clips from the show will be featured on Phanavision throughout the game. Students from Penn Charter, the inspiration behind the show’s William Penn Academy, will sing Take Me Out to the Ballgame in the 7th inning. TICKETS
Speaking of Goldberg’s, they’re having thier moving sale this week before they relocate to a smaller sized store at 718 Chestnut Street. Read about the new space on Philly Mag.
Opening on Monday, September 11, 2017 – City Fitness Logan Square is CEO/President Ken Davies’ first Signature Club, occupying the entire second floor of The Sterling building on 18th and JFK Boulevard. At 40,000 square feet, City Fitness Logan Square is the largest dedicated fitness facility in Greater Center City Philadelphia. Last week City Fitness held a sneak preview party, and then celebrated the premier fitness clubs 10th Anniversary.
Andi Pescov, Cushman & Wakefield (she helped orchestrate the deal for this property) and Erica Schiffman, Cushman & Wakefield
Elle Wilson, City Fitness, tells me that at least once a week someone tells her she looks like Kim Kardashian, as I had.
Michael Rowlands and Brad Richia
They’ll have the usual gym equipment (cardio machines, strength-training equipment), as well as an Olympic lifting platforms.
There’s a dedicated hot yoga studio with infrared heat, along with five more group-fitness classrooms. There will be about 100 group-fitness classes per week at City Fitness Logan.
The CF Workspace concept is inspired by co-working spaces, with high speed internet, a multi-functional printer, charging stations, soundproof phone booths and of course coffee
Thrive: Small group training allows for a greater, more cost-effective reach compared to traditional one-on-one training. That said, it can also be a challenge to operate. Thrive focuses on an efficient model for semi-private training and programming that maximizes the growth of a training department.
Guests can schedule time for specialized massage chairs to wind down after an exhilarating work out
Check out the personal-training area with the 90-foot turf
Boxing area Bikes and Treadmills
City Fitness Logan opens on Monday to early bird folks who registered, and it opens to the public October 1, but right now you can stop by and tour now. As for the folks who registered under the special $10 or $1 registration, make your appointments now and people with appointments through Sunday are strongly encouraged to come in through the weekend and activate their passes to avoid a wait on Monday. People cannot workout until they activate a pass (waivers, etc.) Over 2500 people registered so act now. Kim Frick,Alp Aktan, RE Kelland Julie Abramson
Then we headed up to the roof to continue City Fitness’ 10th Anniversary Party
there was dining with Snap Kitchen, cocktails, dancing to DJ Dilema
I’m excited to be working with City Fitness, and attending this gym.
Every since I covered the opening of the Spring Garden gym 10 years ago, I was impressed with the work out ethic and equipment; I thought I hope some day they open one near my house. I literally signed up for the $10 pass back in July before they approached me to work on a promotion partnership with them.
Happy Thursday. Thank goodness this week is flying right, cause we need a weekend. Actually for me the Social Season kicks off this weekend and then my schedule is back to normal, meaning the PhillyChitChat photographers are going to be busy but drop us an email if you want to book us for your party. As you know I didn’t cover Made In America this year, but after checking out the photos I see I missed a good party. As for parties, one of the best ones happened at the top of the Art Museum steps….
It was invite only for Bey’s birthday party. After her hubby JayZ finished his set on the Rocky Stage, the duo climb the Rocky Stairs for a friends and family party to celebrate the Queen’s 36th birthday.
Spotted at the party was Michelle Williams, Tina Knowles, Marilyn Booker, Solange and stylist June Ambrose to name a few. Guests danced to tunes by DJ JayZ who played The Electric Slide, OutKast’s Hey Ya! and tunes by some of the folks who played Made In America over the weekend including Cardi.
And they had cake created by a local bakery. The cake, made by Cake Life Bake Shop in Philly, cost at least an eye-watering $3,500, a source told Page Six on Wednesday. The cake shop’s geode cakes “start at $3,500 and go up in price depending on detail, complexity, and size,” they said. Check out more of the story here Besides dancing and delicious cake, seems there were interesting party favors handed out to the guests – Champagne Guns
The Champagne Gun $459 each This party weapon, completely harmless, can be reloaded with any Champagne Brand’s Magnum bottle and can work either with a service spout or a diffuser.
Earlier in the day Jay Z led the crowd in a Happy Birthday sing-a-long for @Beyonce at MadeInAmerica
DATEBOOK
Join WeWork Northern Liberties Thursday, September 7th for “Future of Philly Art: Breaking the Mold.” This FREE open-to-the public event will feature live art, cocktail reception and an elite panel of speakers including Jane Golden, Founder and Executive Director of Mural Arts Philadelphia and Karin Copeland, Executive Director, Arts + Business Council of Greater Philadelphia, Julia Guerrero, Director, Percent for Art Program, Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority, Damon Reaves, Associate Curator of Education, Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Margot Berg, Public Art Director, City of Philadelphia. It’s Free, but you have to RSVP
Pokémon GO adds new ways to explore neighborhoods
at Philly Free Streets on Oct. 28
PHILADELPHIA- The City of Philadelphia and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation have partnered with Niantic, Inc. to bring Pokémon GO to Philly Free Streets, a program that temporarily closes streets to cars, inviting people to walk, bike, and play.
The second Philly Free Streets – slated for October 28 – will include a tour of the PokéStops in Pokémon GO between El Centro de Oro in the North Philadelphia neighborhood of Fairhill and Philadelphia’s Historic District. The initiative aims to encourage people to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods using the innovative augmented reality experience of the popular real-world game based on the iconic Pokémon brand. Philly Free Streets participants who visit PokéStops will qualify to win a Pokémon GO poster, based on original loading screen artwork, while supplies last.
In addition, Philly Free Streets will offer a paper passport program option, ensuring that the fun is accessible to everyone, even those without cell phones or the mobile game.
Niantic, Inc.—the developer and publisher of Pokémon GO—and Knight Foundation recently announced an initiative to use technology to promote civic engagement in communities across the United States, including Philadelphia. The initiative will support efforts to get neighbors outside and exploring their city through activities and events, such as Philly Free Streets.
“This initiative uses technology to build on the goal of Philly Free Streets: to encourage people to explore our diverse neighborhoods and connect with their city and each other. Through it, we hope to experiment with new ways of increasing city vibrancy, while creating lessons in civic engagement for communities across the country,” said Patrick Morgan, Knight Foundation program director for Philadelphia.
Kelley Yemen, Director of Complete Streets for the City of Philadelphia, commented, “Philly Free Streets is an exciting opportunity for Philadelphia to come together and re-imagine our streets. We are thrilled to have support from partners—like Knight Foundation—who see this potential and are committed to realizing it. We look forward to having Pokémon GO programming along the route to promote engagement during the Philly Free Streets program.”
“Philly Free Streets is an incredible program that is aligned with Niantic’s vision to create ‘adventures on foot’ and to bring communities together in the real world,” said Vikram Grover, senior director of business development at Niantic, Inc. “We’re looking forward to continuing to help feature and encourage exploration and engagement with Philadelphia neighborhoods’ diverse histories, cultures and vital public institutions in Pokémon GO.
Philly Free Streets will take place from 8AM to 1PM on Saturday, October 28. The 7-mile roundtrip route, between 3rd & Chestnut and 5th & Indiana, will create a car-free connection between Philadelphia’s Historic District and several diverse neighborhoods, then north to El Centro de Oro (“The Golden Block”) in the Fairhill neighborhood of North Philadelphia. A map of the route and more information can be found at http://phillyfreestreets.com/.
Led by the Managing Director’s Office of Transportation & Infrastructure Systems (oTIS), Philly Free Streets highlights active transportation options, as well as neighborhood walkability and its positive impacts on public health, the environment, business, and the community. The October 2017 Philly Free Streets program is generously sponsored by Visit PHILADELPHIA and AARP Pennsylvania.
The Valley Youth House Backpack Challenge 2017 closing ceremony took place at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts last week, where funds were raised and essential back-to-school items were collected for kids in foster care. Participating organizations include Philadelphia Department of Human Services, Five Below, iHeartRadio and Valley Youth House.
This year, over 7000 backpacks were collected during the drive, which began on July 25th and ran through August 18th.
The Closing Ceremony was held at Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts on August 22nd at 1:00PM!
Thomas R. Harrington President & Chief Executive Officer, Mina Say What, Power 99 and the day’s MC, with speaker, former Eagles player Freddie Mitchell
Freddie Mitchell speaks to the kids, imparting wisdom on getting an education and being discipline
Jada Washington speaks to the importance of Valley Youth House and how it saved her life, as she navigated through the foster care system. She is now in college and well on her way to a bright future.
Cynthia Figueroa, Department of Human Services
Aliyah Palmer (c) performed a written word poem to the delight of the crowd
A happy student with their new backpack
The Backpack Challenge collects school supplies for youth in foster care in Philadelphia, and is made possible through a strong partnership between Valley Youth House, the Department of Human Services, iHeartRadio, and Five Below. There are over 50 collection sites throughout the Philadelphia region, and donations are also accepted through VYH’s online drive.
What’s in the bag? Lots of great stuff to help the students begin their new year.
Paper, scissors, pens, pencils, erasers, notebooks, a sippy cup and a great book bag.
Thanks to all the sponsors and supporters for another great backpack challenge.
To support Valley Youth House in all they do CLICK HERE
This past weekend Mike and I headed to #VisitPa, a tradition we started last year when we decided to escape Made in America weekend, which takes place right in front of our home on the Parkway. Last year we went to Scranton, Bethlehem and The Great Fair in Allentown . This year we went to Hershey Park, PA Renaissance Faire, Jim Thorpe & The Great Allentown Fair
Saturday morning we headed to Hershey to visit Mike’s 2nd cousins Tom and Alice. They took us to AACA Museum | Antique Automobile & Motor Vehicle History and gave us a tour of Hershey, the town, the park and the history of the land. It was great. I had no idea about the story behind Milton Hershey. The car museum was amazing too. You definitely have to check it out on your next visit there.
When Mike and I travel we rarely book hotels beforehand, so we’re at the mercy of the universe to find a decent place to stay that’s not going to break us as we’re really only sleeping there between sites.
We booked the Hojo on Chocolate Way. I liked it but Mike wasn’t a fan. The hotel was more like a “motor lodge” of years gone by, each guest had their own “cabin”, or more like a closet as it was that tiny. Nothing very modern, but a bit steep at $225 for his taste. There’s not a lot happening in Hershey at night, except the park, so bring cards, or games for the kids.
My dad had this boat of a car when I was growing up. He had a lot of cars in the early 70s, it seemed every time we went to the Phillies game, we’d come out to find someone had stolen his car. Seriously, it happened twice in a row. At least the Phillies were winning my dad would say.
Sunday Mike and I took the Hershey’s Chocolate Tour. It was cute. Set up like the ride at Disney World – “It’s A Small World”, you ride in a gondola and learn about the history of Hershey and created the delicious bars. This is a free attraction, and it’s next to the amusement park. There is a larger museum called the Hershey Chocolate Museum, and it’s on Chocolate Way next to Houlihan’s and Devon restaurant. Which got me thinking I bet that Houlihan’s and Devon are owned by the same company cause the Devon restaurant on Rittenhouse Square used to be a Houlihan’s about 25 years ago. We didn’t go to the park as neither of us are really into rides after a bit of whiplash 20 years ago. BTW Get to the park early. When we left at NOON, the line to get into the first 3 hrs free parking lot, was a mile long.
I’ve been hearing about the PA Renaissance Faire for eons. I just never understood it. I wasn’t a very imaginative kid. While doing research on things to do and see in Hershey, Pa, I came across info on PA Renaissance Faire which is located about 20 miles from the park. I knew Mike would love it cause he has a great imagination, plus he likes eating big drumsticks which seems to be a big selfie moment there.
Drumstick and Dungeon
Employees as well as
guests dress for the occasion. The two on the left waited at the entrance for their friends, who were a bit surprised at first.
It’s really a fun day, especially for the kids who can play dress up with the parents.
There are lots of shows happening at every moment. You can find the schedule online or when you arrive they will give you a map with showtimes.
Comedy shows, that’s a wet rag she’s dropped on that guys head. I’m sure it would have felt better had it been about 75F
Birds of Prey demonstrations
There was bow shooting, ax and knife throwing, catapult and lots of other manly man stuff from the Renaissance period.
Did I mention the food. There is lots of delicious choices, and yes there is funnel cake.
Musical performances
With plenty of seating. I would definitely go back, there’s a lot to see, do and eat. Did I mention Free Parking too.
Check it our for yourself, as it runs through October.
Later in the day we headed to our next stop Jim Thorpe, Pa. Mike and I had been there before, about 23 years ago. At that time we were really into biking and the area has great trails. When we drove into town we grabbed a bike to eat at the most unforgettable sandwich shop you need to avoid at all costs. It’s across the street from the Inn at Jim Thorpe. The food was terrible, the name forgettable and the waitress charged us double for what was served.
We did stay at a cute, newly renovated Hampton Inn right outside of town. We called on the phone for a reservation, only $188 with tax. The room was large, and had a couch just like I like. There’s nothing better to me then hanging on the couch, drinking my tea, reading Vanity Fair and watching TV. Mike went to the gym and the pool.
Jim Thorpe is adorable and a must visit, especially in the fall
There’s a lot to do there, my favorite thing is to take the tourist train on a 70 minute ride through the mountains. We didn’t have a chance to do it this time, but next time we will. We missed the earlier time slot on the train, and were eager to go to our next stop.
The Great Allentown Fair. It wasn’t initially on our itinerary, but we wanted to visit the goats, pigs and cows once more.
Mike is holding a “passport” in his hand. At each animal display we were to get a stamp to fill up our passport. Cute idea for kids.
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All in all it was a fantastic getaway for the weekend.
Best of all these spots are no more than 2hrs away from Philly.
You could check them out in one day, or over a weekend. VisitPa
Thanks to CliqueCam, our sponsor for today’s blog entry.
Hello September. There’s only 166 days until Spring, so there’s that. Hope you’re holiday weekend is shaping up to be a nice one connecting with friends and family, making memories to last a lifetime. Let’s keep Houston in our prayers, and continue to help them out when we can. Komen Philadelphia and Del Frisco’s are on board to helping out as you’ll see below. Ok let’s see who’ll be the talk of the town this week…
Sylvester Stallone posted a photo from his movie Creed starring Michael B. Jordan hinting that filming for Creed II would begin in 2018. Could Philly have back to back productions in a year, as M. Night Shyamalan’s Glass is slated to begin filming in the middle of September in Philly as well. Glass is the continuing story of Split and Unbreakable, reuniting M Night with Bruce Willis, Samuel Jackson and James McAvoy. “From Unbreakable, Bruce Willis returns as David Dunn as does Samuel L. Jackson as Elijah Price, known also by his pseudonym Mr. Glass. Joining from Split are James McAvoy, reprising his role as Kevin Wendell Crumb and Anya Taylor-Joy with newcomer Sarah Paulson rounding out the cast. It’s going to be quite a fun fall for me as I hear they will be filming at least a quarter of the scenes in Center City.
Cosmo DeNicola, Co-owner of the Philadelphia Soul and Janet DeNicola celebrate the Soul’s back to back World Champion win at City Hall on Thursday.
The Parkway 100 committee hosted a gathering at Capŕiccio Café at Cret Park with Benjamin Franklin Parkway historians David B. Brownlee and Rob Armstrong. David is the author of Building the City Beautiful: The Benjamin Franklin Parkway and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and Rob is the preservation and capital projects manager for Philadelphia Parks and Recreation. They provided a briefing about the history of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway as they get ready for the kickoff of Parkway 100 on FRIDAY Sept 8. Saint Benjamin Brewing Company also offered the first taste of their new Parkway Centennial Pale Ale, which also debuts on September 8.
So long “Eat at Joe’s” we hardly knew you. The orange sign says Longhorn Steaks is opening up at 555 City Ave.
Councilman Al Taubenberger, Bryan Leib, Treasurer for the Philadelphia Young Republicans, Ross Wolfe (PYR Chair), Laura Wagoner(Finance Director for PA GOP) and Scott Waller (PYR Vice Chair) PYR: Philadelphia Young Republicans We were at 4700 Locust Street, Henry Lea Elementary School. Philadelphia Young Republicans hand out 330 backpacks with school supplies
September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
The Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation, a non-profit, 501c3 organization created as a tribute to the life, character, and immense strength of Sandy Rollman, who passed away from advanced ovarian cancer in May 2000, will visit the Nasdaq MarketSite in Times Square. In honor of the occasion, Robin Cohen, Co-Founder and CEO, will ring the Closing Bell – SEPTEMBER 5th. Yeah!! Here are a few events you might want to attend. September 16 Up Close & Personal with General Hospital Join us for Yoga at KOP Mall on September 9. Sponsored by Yoga Home. Register online here.
Now through Monday, September 4, every Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steak House, Del Frisco’s Grille and Sullivan’s Steakhouse nationwide— 53 restaurants in total — will donate 20 percent of sales with hopes to exceed $1,000,000 in donations to Hurricane Harvey food banks.
Congrats to my two winners on Twitter and Instagram Heather and Melissa, who won a pair of tickets each to this weekend’s Made In America. Here they are picking up their tickets from United Way, who I partnered with to promote a book drive for them, and promote the weekend festival. Some say it’s the last year….
Happy sadly, last day of “August”. The second annual Taking Flight for Autism event was held at Lincoln Financial Field last night and raised money for the autism support programs at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the research programs at CHOP’s Center for Autism Research.
Earlier in the day I was at the Linc shooting a behind the scenes piece with Carson Wentz and got this shot of the set up of Taking Flight. (I’ll fill you in in October) If you’re in Rittenhouse Square today at noon, NRG Energy and I will be giving away Carson Wentz fans, for the fans.
2017 Eagles Hall Of Fame Inductee K David Akers and Eagles ChairmanSince 2016, Jeffrey Laurie.
The event has now raised $1.6 million for CHOP, announced Philadelphia Eagles Chairman/CEO Jeffrey Lurie and the Eagles Charitable Foundation (ECF) today. Carson Wentz with guest
At Taking Flight for Autism, more than 600 guests joined the entire Eagles organization – players, coaches and front office executives – for an intimate dining experience at Lincoln Financial Field. Attendees enjoyed a cocktail hour and dinner on the field, as well as a full program of football conversation and remarks from Lurie, head coach Doug Pederson and 2016 Eagles Hall of Fame inductee Merrill Reese. The evening’s guests purchased tables to support the cause.
Torrey Smith with guests Carson Wentz with 2017 Hall of Fame Inductee Merrill Reese in foreground
“Autism Spectrum Disorder is a critical public health issue that is now being recognized as one of the fastest-growing developmental conditions in the United States,” said Jeffrey Lurie, Philadelphia Eagles Chairman and CEO. “Autism touches the lives of millions of people around the world, including within my family. Over the years, we have made great progress with advanced research and treatment options, but there is so much more we can learn.
“I commend the Center for Autism Research at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for their progressive vision in this field and am confident that this financial support will contribute to their innovative work focused on autism research and programs.”
Autism is a bio-neurological developmental disability that is typically recognized by the age of three. Individuals who have been touched by autism often experience verbal and non-verbal communication challenges, along with difficulties in the areas of social interaction and cognitive function. Autism is now being identified at a rate of one in 68 births – one in every 42 boys – making it the largest developmental disorder in the world. While there is no genetic test or cure for autism, its numbers continue to grow at an alarming rate.
Anthony Starego and Eagles Caleb Sturgis Christina Weiss Lurie Eagles Insider Dave Spado interviewing Eagles Coach Doug Peterson
In addition to 2017 Eagles Hall of Fame inductee David Akers, who attended the event and will be formally enshrined into the team’s Hall of Fame on October 23, a very special guest was also introduced – Anthony Starego. Starego is a Brick, NJ native who became the first varsity football player with autism in the United States to play in a high school state championship game and contribute points in the contest.
A placekicker like Akers, Starego is a 2015 graduate of Brick High School where he played football from 2009-13. Today, the 23-year-old Starego is the kicker for two minor league teams in the region, the Jersey Shore Hurricanes and the New Jersey Pitbulls. He was the leading kicker last year with the Pitbulls in extra points and set an NEAFL record seven extra points in one game.
ECF is a 501(c)(3) public charity that serves thousands of low income children in the Greater Philadelphia region every year with a focus on improving health outcomes. ECF uses its unique platform to provide children in the Philadelphia region greater access to vision care and autism research and services. For more information, please visit www.EaglesCharitableFoundation.org.
Thanks to ECF for providing me with these photos. The event ended at 8PM and the boys were on buses up to NYC for tonight’s game with the Jets. Go Birds!!
I’ve thought about this over the years, and people ask me all the time “What was the best party you ever covered?” It’s hard to narrow the best 10 over the past decade so I went with 15, here goes… PS if you were involved in any of these events by providing the decor, please write me at buzz @phillychitchat.com At the time I sometimes know and like to include that info in the columns.
These days the Fairmount Conservancyhosts a lovely gala at the Horticultural Center in Fairmount Park, but years ago they used to hold a garden party in the Azalea Garden on Kelly Drive (this shot is from 2011). I always loved it there as the gardens are so pretty and the guests dressed in garden attire. There were also carriage rides that would take guests on short rides through out the park, tea sandwiches and cocktails.
Relatively new and coming up again October 6 – The 23rd Street Armory Oktoberfest by Brauhaus Schmitz
A great idea, executed with nearly no problems as far I could see. A weekend of sessions joyous with German song, dance, food, brew and smiles all around. The decor and concept was done by the folks at Brauhaus like owner Doug Hager, GMVanessa Beahn, and Executive Chef, Jeremy Nolen. Aversa PR did the publicity.
The Philles Phanatic with Julia Sala at Little Stars Gala, where kids fighting cancer at area hospitals, enjoy a night of glamour and fun. Notable MC’s over the years including Erin Elmore, Alex Holley, Mike Jerrick with Stacey Kracher helping with the media and production.
Before there was a Philadelphia Fashion Week, there was local realtor Jamie Reibenbach’s fashion shows at Public House in the mid 00s. Jamie was always able to recruit fun Philly notables to walk the catwalk like Doug Kammerer, former CBS3 Philly weatherman. The fashion shows were a monthly event, along with other fun events she held for charity.
Philadelphia Phillies’ All-Star Second Baseman, Chase Utley and wife Jennifer Utley team up with the City of Philadelphia Mural Arts to fund-raise. They were the first of the Phillies of the 00s establish a foundation and to host annual soirees for them The Annual Utley All Stars, saving domestic animals. Nicole Cashman, Cashman & Assocs produced, publicized and executed their events.
The Shane Victorino Foundation Fashion Show was hosted at Union League and was always a good time. Here’s Hunter Pence on the catwalk as Jamie Moyer, Mitch Williams and Shane Victorino look on.
One of the best events was conceived by Megan Smith, Brownstone PR, who created Philly’s Dancing With The Stars” to benefit Sickle Cell Anemia. The event had a strong, successful run for about 4 years and was able to attract many Philadelphia notables, including socialite, philanthropist Dana Spain, Sabrina Tamburino, GN Kang, Michael Callahan, Michael Days, Erin Elmore and so many others.
These folks had to invest serious time to learn how to dance in order to compete for the “disco ball,” The judges were very serious about determining who would win and included legendary dancer Joan Myers Brown is the founder of The Philadelphia Dance Company (PHILADANCO), Sen Larry Farnese and Thom Cardwell, man about town. Elizabeth Wellington, Jenice Armstrong and Jimmy Contrearas with prizes
The Annual Ritz Carlton Oscar Viewing Party was always a smashing success; judging was also fierce for fashion of the evening, but no one went home a loser if they were able to grab a gift bag before they were all gone.
In later years they set up stations where people could grab a bag and fill their own gift bag with swag
Vlahos PR with Matt Vlahos and Jimmy Contrearas The Barnes Opening Gala was one to remember. The who’s who of Philadelphia Society –Anne Hamilton, John Middleton, and Leigh Middleton were on hand for the fundraiser which was Emceed by Brian Williams, as the crowd enjoyed dinner and entertainment by Norah Jones. Even legendary photographer Bill Cunningham stopped by to take photos for the NY Times .
Gerry Ellis, Global Conservation Prize recipient and Joan C. Hendricks, VMD, PhD, Philadelphia Zoo Board Vice Chair – The Zoo Gala is one of the most beautiful events and they give out the most exquisite award to their honorees.
The room is always decorated incorporating elements of the zoo, as well as decor from the jungle (created and inspired by Zoo employee Mary Love, Dana Lombardo and their team). Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA) was an ingenious idea, and we are so fortunate to have this event that happens every couple years in Philadelphia. Curated by the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, PIFA, reappears for its fourth edition in 2018 to build on its events in 2011, 2013 and 2016. PIFA 2018 Gala’s is 5/31/18 PAWS Dinner, where popular restaurants in Philadelphia recreate their eatery at a gala location and serve a three course meal for guests and sponsors. I came on the scene when the event was held at the Union League, but eventually it outgrew the building and was held at the Linc. Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society or PAWS (raising money to make Pa a no kill state.) was founded by Dana Spain. The PAWS dinner skipped a few years, but on October 2 there will be another one. TICKETS HERE
Champagne anyone? Hair of the Dog an extension of a New Year’s Eve party.
Started by two friends – Dan Cronin and Robert Molinaro, Metro Communications, who wanted to celebrate the new year with their friends, especially the ones they didnt spend New Year’s Eve with. It’s been going on for over 20 years, and has been held all over town even on a Missisippi riverboat docked at Penns Landing.
Buffy E. Harakidas | Director of Marketing and her team at Metro Communications. PR by Jennifer Sherlock, Jenna Communications.
Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, Children’s Book Author reads her book “Tyrannosaurus Wrecks” at THE STORYBOOK BALL, they used to have it at night, but switched it to the day time so the little ones can maintain their sleep schedule. I highly recommend this event for families, uncles or aunts to take the kids. So fun. Adults dress up as well.
Started by Renee and Don Freeman – Donors Are Heroes is a group of dedicated friends, committed to raising public awareness for the importance of becoming an organ and tissue donor, to dispel myths and provide a means for people to share their donation wishes with family and friends. Their party is always in April, and it’s always fun. It’s a dessert, dancing and getting down with your friends event. Don’t take your organs to heaven. Donate.
The UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball Philadelphia is fabulous. I always enjoy photographing it as guests wear the most fabulous masks, and it’s for a great cause. The event draws the most fabulous of notables. I once photographed Billy Paul there ie Me and Mrs Jones, who didn’t love that song growing up. On the red carpet is Mayor Michael Nutter and First Lady Lisa Nutter.
Thanks to Mayor Michael Nutter for attracting so many great events to Philadelphia, including the Pope’s visit, the DNC, the amazing development and growth in the City we’re experiencing and one of my favorite events,
Made In America. That might come as a surprise to some people as I have complained of the driving/parking restrictions in my neighborhood, but Made in America was one of those defining events that made a difference in Philadelphia and put us on the map of being able to handle large scale events. I really enjoyed covering the event for the first 4 years, and although I could have covered it this year I realized it’s too much for me to spend the entire day there. Up until the 5th year they allowed media to leave the festival grounds and take a break. I live across the street, it was a treat to go home and return after a few hours. I look forward to the coverage this year, and hearing if it’s going to come back again as this is the last year of the “contract.” I am giving away tickets to the weekend event if you follow directions on my instagram.
The Annual Charity Flip Cup Tournament to benefit MS and a rotating local charitable organization.
Created by Chatterblast and held at Field House every year.
It’s always a blast
My 80s Prom Birthday and my luck 7th Annual Philly Chit Chat Anniversary Party in 2013 at Sky Garten, which raised funds for Gilda’s Club, in three years I raised $30ks in my sisters name who passed away of ovarian cancer.
Thanks to the Cabot Cheese for honoring me this year for my charitable contributions for my pro bono charity work. American Foundation of Suicide Prevention for honoring me with the
Humanitarian Award in 2015 for my volunteer work, the Linda Creed Foundation for honoring me as Volunteer of the Year in 2014 (volunteered for nearly 10 years now) and for Here’s Your Chance and Mayor Nutter for surprising and honoring me with the “Do Good” Award in 2012.
The Philadelphia Library Gala – Wonderland which was produced by Fred Stein
Both Virgin Airlines and Qatar Airlines had big fancy launch parties in Philadelphia. Virgin Airlines had their star studded party at the Palomar. Celebs including Amber Rose, Terrance Howard, Penn Badgely, Seth Green, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Sir Richard Branson walked the red carpet, as well as Boyz II Men, who also appeared at the QATAR Airways launch party held a year later at the Ritz Carolton, where they performed in front of a crowd of who’s who society and hospitality in Philadelphia. Maria Papadakis was the hostess with the mostess, and was hired to launch Qatar in a half dozen other North American cities.
The Number One Event of the Decade is any of the Diner en Blanc’s. Thank you Natanya DiBona and Kayli Moran, co-hosts of Diner en Blanc for bringing the fabulous pop up dinner to Philadelphia, and for enduring the grief that surprisingly came along with it.
Can’t wait until next year, where will you put 5400 people?
This was a difficult decision but here are my picks for best fashion of the decade 2007 – 2017, that I shot. Happy PhillyChitChat 10th Anniversary. I just have 2 more columns left – the Best Events of the Decade and Pivotol Points in my Career. (the later is just so I can remember when I write my book in a decade, lol)
Sara Kelly – 2012 Sara Kelly (l) and Kharisma McIlwaine (r)
Kharisma McIlwaine, Aloysius Mcilwaine, Alex Holley and Mike Jerrick of Fox 29’s Good Day Philly. – 2015
Mike Jerrick and Alex Holley – 2016
Alex Holley, Fox 29
Kate Beaver – 2014
Kate Beaver – the dress that launched a million clicks and a media blitz -2013
Francesca Ruscio, PHL17, now with NBC10 at Philly Style 2016
Francesca Ruscio recently signed with an agent in NYC and is about to work on a film
overseas
6ABC’s Cecily Tynan and Adam Joseph – 2015
The best dressed weather duo on TV – 2016
I love shooting Rick and Flo Celender on the social scene.
2015
Rick and Flo Celender – 2016
Marisa Magnatta and comedian Joe Conklin co-host CureDuchenne 2015
Marisa Magnatta and Maria Konopka (Papadakis)
Trendsetter Christie Mandia and Brandon Mandia – 2016
Craig Spitzer and Erin Elmore – 2015
Sassy and always up for fun – Erin Elmore – 2009
Danielle Hankin – 2014
At a Mural Arts Fundraiser
That time after the Young Friends at the PMA where I really wanted to get a photo of someone sledding down the steps, of course Danielle was up for the challenge in her Versace outfit and boots.- 2015
Danielle Hankin is more than a socialite, she’s a philanthropist. Earlier this month she co-chair the JNFuture fundraiser at Lucy’s in Margate; She’s a Board Member and Event Chair of Philadelphia Chapter, which her brother Alexander Hankin founded. – 2017
Kristin Detterline, Editor of Philadelphia Style Magazine
Drop dead gorgeous but more importantly an amazing person and kind to everyone.
Stacey Kracher, Christie Mandia and Kristin Detterline on Mama Toub’s balcony on July 4, 2014
Amber Goins and Pedro Goins – 2012
Amber Goins and Pedro Goins – 2015 – The cutest couple that makes you smile broadly when you see them. Adorable dancers as well.
Donald Carter, always a dapper dresser.
For many years Donald was a Republican, a gay republican, which
got him an appearance on the Bill Maher Show nearly 2 decades ago.
Rita Harper always looks fabulous and wears this hat
Stunning Buffy Harakidas – Metro Communications and event planner of Hair of the Dog with Natalie Guercio from Mob Wives who sang her new songs at the event.
John Soden and Sarah Doheny – Met her in 2007, nicknamed her PRStyle Diva Always an amazing dressed diva
Thom Cardwell – The man of a thousand sports jackets and scarves
Stunning Famed Fashion Illustrator Denise Fike (hire her for your parties) (You might never see her face, but her attire is always perfectly tailored and eye catching) and Lane Fike, Director of Capital Programs at Schuylkill Banks Joe Weiss, Chairman Electronic Ink and Sharon Pinkenson, Executive Director of Greater Philadelphia Film Office
November 2007
Sharon Pinkenson (wearing vintage Norma Kamal), Joe Weiss, at the 12th Annual Jefferson Gala honoring Sidney Kimmel at the Marriott Downtown on November 17, 2014. Ageless, memorable, professional and kind
Anne Callahan and Charles Croce, Executive Director & CEO Philadelphia Museum
Anne Callahan and Charles Croce – puts a lot of thought into her dress for the Academy Ball. There’s always a great story attached to it Andy Henning and Jill Rizen
(Timeless beauty, legs for days)
Vivian Camille at Hair of the Dog.
I see her once a year, and every year she makes my best dressed list for that year
Josh DeMarco, hair stylist at Jason Matthew Salon in Rittenhouse, and Michelle Miller,Director of Development, BBBS Independence Region, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Subtle power couple.
Style, grace and fun Marisa Magnatta – definitely one of my favorite photos of one of my favorite nights in the decade
The Academy Ball 2012
Brandon Morrison and Stacey Kracher
Power couple, trendsetters, ones to watch in the next decade
Stacey Kracher and Brandon Morrison – Style Icons of the Decade
The Goldbergs Night at the Phillies
Bikes and Treadmills
Kim Frick, Alp Aktan, RE Kelland Julie Abramson
It was invite only for Bey’s birthday party. After her hubby JayZ finished his set on the Rocky Stage, the duo climb the Rocky Stairs for a friends and family party to celebrate the Queen’s 36th birthday.
Besides dancing and delicious cake, seems there were interesting party favors handed out to the guests – Champagne Guns
Saturday morning we headed to Hershey to visit Mike’s 2nd cousins Tom and Alice. They took us to 
I’ve been hearing about the 
2017 Eagles Hall Of Fame Inductee K David Akers and Eagles ChairmanSince 2016, Jeffrey Laurie.
Carson Wentz with guest
Eagles Insider Dave Spado interviewing Eagles Coach Doug Peterson
Before there was a Philadelphia Fashion Week, there was local realtor Jamie Reibenbach’s fashion shows at Public House in the mid 00s. Jamie was always able to recruit fun Philly notables to walk the catwalk like Doug Kammerer, former CBS3 Philly weatherman. The fashion shows were a monthly event, along with other fun events she held for charity.
The Annual Charity Flip Cup Tournament to benefit MS and a rotating local charitable organization.
Mike Jerrick and Alex Holley – 2016
Danielle Hankin – 2014
