Philly Chit Chat

My long time friend and former roommate in the eighties, Bob Strack, has always had a lust elaborate decorations. We had grand decor in our cute little Cherry Hill apartment.

Fast forward a few decades, he falls in love and marries equally creative, Jack Wootten, and then we become Facebook friends where I get to vicariously enjoy all his creations through the the little box on my desk. I’m not sure if I ever noticed his over the top, but tasteful Christmas decorations of yesteryear, but I have noticed his general amazing decor, collection of barbie dolls, and his gallivanting to Halloween parties in costume, but this year I did and I must share them with you…. I asked him a few questions and he sent a lovely paragraph back with lots of details….They live in Newark, De.

Bob tells me: This year I did it a little bit different. I did 3 themed rooms. Emerald city foyer , candy land family room and whoville dining room.

I generally repurpose all of the items used on the trees and garlands. It is all stripped down and stored by color in clear totes. I usually start decorating the first week of November. The garlands go up first then the lights are placed on. The trees go up next and are lighted. Then i go room by room depending on theme and start to actually decorate the garlands and trees.

candy land family room

The last thing I do is accessorize the house. I get my color themes from seeing by what is left after Christmas at stores I usually buy the underdogs that haven’t sold well colorwise.

I then take inventory of what I own and see i can make anything out of it. I sometimes get themes from Movies, friends sometimes tell me I should do this or that, and I also get inspiration from

My husband Jack Wootten. He builds my crazy dreams and makes them a Reality. We met at Macy’s back in the 80’s. but didn’t become a couple until 1993 when I Moved To Delaware from Maryland. We got married last year on Valentine’s Day after 13 years together though we have known each other for 30 years. 

whoville dining room

The decorations will be up until the weekend of January 12. 

Philly Style Magazine hosted their annual Holiday Party

at Aqimero, at the Ritz Carlton in Center City earlier this month. I was there, I took photos, some will run in Liberty City Press next week,

but I wanted to bring you guys the photos that were taken in the photo booth. So fun and telling!!

See if you can guess who the scenesters are…..

The Drewen Girls, I went to college with their sister Suz, and if I wasn’t gay she’d be Mrs Dillon

Conni Alexandrian McDonnell , Touché Accessories and Desmond McDonnell
Tonight head on over to Touché Accessories for their big 20% off the entire store sale. Pick up those
last minute gifts for the holiday, and I know you need a new dress for New Year’s Eve, or The Hair of The Dog party coming up on 1/7/17. They’re at KOP Mall, LL across from Macy’s. You’re not going to meet a nicer women than Conni.
I’ve admired her for years, and now she advertises on my blog.

PR Peeps: Garden Logan leaves her 9 to 5 and returns to PR, Jaimi Blackburn leaves Loews Hotel, and goes to

The Neff’s
The most adorable siblings

Yeah that’s my shot of Lionel Ritchie there. Check out PhillyStyleOnline.com for my weekly photos.

Philly newest, hottest, lifestyle bloggers – Alex and Mike
Invite them to your events. They have an engaging audience, are interesting guests, plus they’re kinda hot and fashionable.
Alex and Mike Lifestyle Blog

The Rittenhouse LadiesIMC and his posse Alex, Mike Toni and Briana
Briana Louise Sposato (bottom right) is a fantastic photographer. Her biggest client is Ian Micheal Crumm, her other clients Starr Restaurants to name a few. She shoots products and food.
That photo on my blog in the upper left, she shot it.
http://www.brianalouisephotography.com/

Thanks http://cliquecam.com/ for the shots.

Medical Guardian (1818 Market Street  Suite 1200, Philadelphia, PA 19103) held their annual holiday party on Saturday night at Tendenza in Philadelphia in Northern Liberties. Geoff Gross, Founder & CEO at Medical Guardian hosted friends, family and employees of the life saving Medical Alert System which serves seniors nationwide.

Valerie Sings Gross, Sings Events, and Geoff Gross, Founder & CEO at Medical Guardian, Gemma DeMedio, Mark Simon, Andree Goldberg, and Bryan Goldberg

Congratulations are in order for Geoff Gross who was recently honored by the Phl Biz Journal as  one of the
Most Admired CEOs in Philadelphia! #PBJCEO

A beautiful sight, we’re happy tonight
Walking in a #winterwonderland ❄️☃️
#valsingsevents #mgholidayparty

ceviche

Ronnie Gordon and Lauren Gordon

Love the decor of this room

Adam Landsman, Matthew Groh and Jen Landsman

Chef Frances Vavloukis is the Culinary Center Specialist at Whole Foods Market in Annapolis, Md. and Kris Gross

Everyone gets a Christmas decoration

Mark Kinney, Sarah Barry and Curtis

David Denny, Simone Denny, Chrissy Coyne and Sean Coyne

Ken Gross, Frances Vavloukis, Geoff Gross, Meg Cherondoff and Eric Prithard

Ozzie Perez and Kristen Muldoon

Serena Jacobs and Tim Ennis

This might be my best dressed couple of the year.
Anthony Bester and Lori Madeja

 Employees, managers, spouses and friends enjoyed a sit down dinner after a cocktail party of mingling about holiday shopping, traditions and favorite holiday songs.

Who Knew? The Independence Visitor Center sells the Mummer’s Parade Tickets. Every year I wonder where I get them, is it the Pa Convention Center, the Mummers Museum where. Of course I always think about that on New Year’s Day. This year I read an email that probably comes to me every year and it’s IVC where you get them. LET’S GO!!

The Independence Visitor Center is gearing up for an exciting holiday season, featuring the Philadelphia Holiday Festival. Located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Historic District in Independence National Historical Park, the Visitor Center is the official welcome center of the Greater Philadelphia region and the perfect place for visitors to begin exploring signature holiday events.

The Independence Visitor Center is the exclusive location to pick up free-timed tickets to tour Independence Hall and located across the street from the Liberty Bell Center. Tickets to MummersFest, the Mummers Parade, and Fancy Brigade Finale are also on sale at the Independence Visitor Center.

The City Hall Visitor Center, room 121, is centrally located among Center City’s bustling holiday scene surrounding City Hall. Here you can learn about happenings throughout the region as well as purchase tickets to tour City Hall and the observation deck with sweeping views of the city from 500 feet, as William Penn sees us.

New this week: City Hall Visitor Center now offers ticket sales to more than 100 tours and attractions!

MUMMERS TICKETS:

For the last 12 years, the Independence Visitor Center has been the exclusive location to purchase bleacher seating at the Mummers Parade. Also available for purchase at the Visitor Center are tickets for the Fancy Brigade Finale Shows and MummersFest.

>>For information about Mummers programming and TICKETS, click here.<<

Mummers Parade January 1, 2017
Bleacher seating tickets available; $20.00 per person
Purchase at the Independence Visitor Center or order by phone at 800.537.7676 and pick up at the Visitor Center

Fancy Brigade Finale Shows

January 1, 2017

Pennsylvania Convention Center

*5:00 p.m. performance SOLD OUT*

Tickets available for the 11:30 a.m. performance;

$28.00 (includes $3.00 Visitor Center handing fee)

Purchase at the Independence Visitor Center or order by phone at 800.537.7676 and pick up at the Visitor Center

MummersFest

December 31, 2016 – Pennsylvania Convention Center
Tickets available; $5.00 per person (includes $1.00 Visitor Center handling fee)
Purchase at the Independence Visitor Center or order by phone at 800.537.7676 and pick up at the Visitor Center

GETTING AROUND:

Philly PHLASH Downtown Bus Loop

The most convenient and affordable way for visitors to travel to key attractions, including stops throughout Historic Philadelphia, the Philly PHLASH provides daily service every 15 minutes from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. The PHLASH is only $2 per ride or $5 per day. Passes are available onboard (with cash and exact change only), at any Visitor Center location, or online at PhillyPHLASH.com and RidePhillyPHLASH.com.

PRDC Properties and D3 Development hosted a Winter Showcase last Saturday, December 10 featuring the re-development of the TransAtlantic building into 41 luxury apartments. (420 Fairmount Avenue) Thanks to Mike Hirata for shooting this event for PCC

This historic redevelopment features beautiful units that include hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, exposed brick, high ceilings, amazing views and much more! Some units have outdoor space.

Right in the heart of Northern Liberties, you are in walking distance to some of the city’s best restaurants, boutiques, parks, and vibrant nightlife

Rebecca Cureton of Grey Dolphin Fitness and Wellness

Developers David Perlman and Greg Hill.

Once coined one of the 10 most distinctive empty buildings in Philadelphia, the TransAtlantic  has been transformed into a beautiful boutique-style residential loft apartment building in the  heart of Northern Liberties.

Arvind Balaji and Tori Moore.

PRDC Properties and D3 Development have maintained the historic charm of the building by  restoring the original facade and designing unique floors that feature interior brick, iron doors,  high vaulted ceilings with original beams and views in all directions.

Brooke Ziegler, Nanci Ziegler, and Brent Ziegler on the outdoor deck.

Heather Baumgardner and Brandon Morrison.  

Zack Miller and Mitch Rosenthal.

Most notably, the 3 bedroom penthouse apartment with elevated roof deck is privately located  on the 5th floor. The penthouse features a striking entryway lined with sky light windows down  the center hallway. The open floor plan presents incredible views from the living, dining and  kitchen rooms. This loft is the true definition of “light and airy”.

One bedrooms are between $1,575-$1,990
2 bedrooms range between $2,050-$2,900
Penthouse Unit (3 beds/2baths) with private roof deck and 2 designated off-street parking spaces $4,500
Commercial Space – $2,500

Arvind Balaji and Bre Dillon.

Becky Goldschmidt owner of Random Tea Room.

Rebecca Nenno of Mind and Body Wellness.

Jon Thomas, President of PRDC Properties, expresses great enthusiasm for the project, “we  have beautiful units to share in a convenient location right off the main strip of Northern Liberties  near local bakeries, bars and restaurants. PRDC and D3 Development were able to pull  together a great team to revitalize an iconic building that clearly needed a new life.”  For those looking to purchase a new home, there’s a place for you too! The TransAtlantic  apartment building is flanked by 25 luxury row homes, with 6 still available.

This shot is looking towards the Delaware River.
Check out Naked Philly for before pixs and sketchings of the property

Jon Gosselin Gets Ugly, Random Acts of Kindness & Philly Gossip

Good Thursday. Omgosh I got behind on PhillyChitChat this week, especially this month with the gossip. So bear with me there’s a lot. Every day I scour social media to see what you all are up to, who’s getting married, who’s having a baby * and sometimes I think wait you must have been pregnant when you got married and I didn’t even noticed, I thought it was the glow of the day – Congrats;  and upcoming events I think might interest you. Let’s start with this seasonal story, which hopefully inspires kindness through out the year.

I got this cute nugget in my mailbox this week:

Michelle Simkiss founder of  In beTWEEN Girls took a bunch of teen girls throughout SNJ to towns Mantua, Mt Royal, West Deptford, Clarksboro, Mickleton, Swedesboro and Mullica Hill and did “Random Acts of Kindness.” They taped quarters to the machines at a laundromat, paid off a layaway for Christmas presents for a delinquent account, gifted countless coffees at Dunkin Donuts, laid 15 wreaths of remembrances and did a special ceremony for veterans (some WW1) that haven’t been visited in a long time, sent pizzas to the fire hall volunteers, dropped off cookies & coffee to the police station, donated items to the animal hospital and knocked on 11 random doors throughout the community to surprise them with gift cards, presents & goodies.  At each stop we told the community members that they are loved and we sang Christmas carols to them.   – In beTWEEN Girls is an organization dedicated to empowering the lives of pre-teen girls by teaching them self worth, self confidence, boundaries, and to love and accept themselves. The program provides tools that enhances their ability to connect with their inner voice, and appreciate their own uniqueness. Through techniques such as mindfulness, positive thought, yoga, and fun, and inspiration crafts and activities, the girls can begin to easily navigate through this confusing and a somewhat emotional time in their lives. Our In beTWEEN Girls will discover their natural talents, self fulfillment, volunteerism, and invaluable life skills.

Congrats you two

I love these reveal parties. So new and fun. Now save up for that Push Present.

Congrats Dan Kessler, he’s making moves. This guy will definitely run the City one day, if not the state.

As will Malcolm Kenyatta. He also was selected by City and State as one of the #40under40

Sad face

Formerly of Philadelphia, magazine and Chatterblast, Joey and his hubby Alex Marin moved to Dallas for his job, and now
Joey is at Dallas Magazine. Congrats!

Congrats Melony Roy!!

Congrats Susan

******************************************

What’s Happening?

Saturday and Sunday at James restaurant have lunch with Santa and his elf
1835 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
(267) 324-5005

Happy Tuesday. Can’t even believe it’s coming down to the wire for Christmas Day – Only 12 more days. So much shopping still to do. Have you noticed the photos of peoples Christmas Trees being put up has slowed, but I have captured a few of my favorites from Social Media…..

Alicia Vitarelli’s Priscilla

Ary Modesto

Dan Myers

Martha Graham Cracker

Good Monday morning. Hope you had a great weekend. Earlier this month I recharged at this super retreat created by two local experts Dr. Rubina Tahir and Parisha Smith, and I’m ready to take on 2017. Bye, bye 2016, and not too soon.

Dr. Rubina Tahir (l) and Parisha Smith (r), hosted The Positivity Charge at the 24 co-op. It’s Philadelphia’s newest health and wellness retreat; a day full of activities in order to spark insight and re-activate the mind. The day opened up with yoga, then continued with speakers to help recharge our selves and mind, there was a juicing segment, break out groups, lunch and shopping. It was a full day of wellness activities.

Paul Dunn is one of Philadelphia’s most sought after Yoga instructors, he can often be found at the Race Street Pier teaching yoga, Saturday he taught a class class at Positivity Charge.

After our bodies got tuned up, Pax Tandon worked on our thoughts.  Prakriti “Pax” Tandon is a positive psychology expert

Pax told us to erase those negative thoughts, and how to reprogram them so they don’t hold us back anymore.

Afterwards Jennifer Lenysa demonstrated healthy smoothies and the benefits for us. It was very informative, and the drinks were delicious. You can find her healthy recipes, weight loss tips, and more at  coachingbyjennifer.com

Motivation speaker, philanthropist, mother and wife Terri Matthews took “the stage” and led us to success. I’ve known her for a few years, but only socially. She was an incredible speaker, leading us on a journey of success, walking us through the fear that holds many of us back, we have one life to live, don’t let the no’s keep you back.  Someone is going to succeed and why don’t you want it to be you.

Afterwards people broke out in groups. Dr. Rubina Tahir
led one group in the discussion of presenting your best self to others by your posture and body language.

In another room Jen Sherlock, Jenna Communications, led a workshop of participants in story boarding. Who doesn’t want to sit around, peruse magazines, cut out
inspiration and get motivate to achieve my dreams.

Parisha Smith, author, TV personality and inspiration speaker discuses healthy choices to eat as well as her latest e-book, “The Contentment Strategy” while sharing quick healthy snack recipes.

drink water, eat health and in moderation.

Speaking of healthy delicious food – Snap Kitchen served lunch. So delicious. You know I love their food. Who knew Snap Kitchen catered as well.

After lunch and everyone headed to the shopping expo.

I picked up a little something that smelled delightful from the Anatomy Apothecaire

It was a great day. Follow ‎@ChiroRubina
@ThePositivityC

@justparisha

For the best in health and wellness to recharge you for the new year!!

Good Friday. Hope you’re keeping warm. Last night I headed to the Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia where I was Invited to experience a Taste of the Holiday Season at  Center City’s Unmatched Latin-Coastal Dining Destination. Opened a little less than a year ago, Aqimero by celebrity executive Chef Richard Sandoval  coined “the father of modern Mexican food”, the fabulously designed eatery has undergone a few growing pains and seems to be on the right track now with

new Chef de Cuisine Paulo Mendoza who hails from San Diego and for the past two years was Chef de Cuisine at Sandoval ‘s Venga Venga Cantina & Tequila Bar. He’s tweaked the menu that was in place, as well as brought some of his most popular dishes which he created over his tenure as a chef.

Guajillo Braised Short Ribs

What I really like about the new menu is the expanded appetizer selection. Sometimes I just want to go to a restaurant and nibble.
Smoked Swordfish Dip.

Jetsetter, scenester Ian Michael Crumm with new on the scene, lifestyle bloggers Alex and Mike

Spicey Shrimp Quesadilla – so good. I practically ate all the samples on this plate myself

One of Sandoval’s signature dishes Hamachi Tiradito

Sofia Pignitor, Cashman & Assocs. The PR for Aqimero with Jimmy Contreras, the new in house PR/Marketing Director of the Ritz Carlton

The sample of Guajillo Braised Short Ribs was generous and plated well.

There were about 15 social media stars on hand for the tasting including Visit Philly, UrPhillyPal – Al Lee
and I brought my friend Rahel Solomon. Thanks for coming I know it was passed your bedtime.
Watch her Sunday through Thursday’s at 6Am on CBS3Philly with Jim Donovan.

I need this in my life – Seafood Cazuella $30

They also have a new GM, John Christinzio.