Categories
Philadelphia

PIFA 2016 Opens With A Gala To Remember for the Ages, Dinner, a Performance and Lighted Horses Perform in Rittenhouse Square

Good Thursday day, hope you are well. Oh I can’t believe I missed yesterday’s post. I was overwhelmed with how many events I shot over the weekend and juggling where I should put them, and who could take them and I forgot about me and my little blog. Well today we’re getting a most extraordinary event that only happens every two years in Philly. It’s Philadelphia International Festival Of the Arts‎ or PIFA for short. These photos, and some of which I am not publishing here, may go in the June issue of Philadelphia Magazine. I’m posting the video of the Kinetic Tree experience, listen along while you read the entry, and towards the end it finally opens.

I see now the IPhone quality is not a superior as the camera quality which you’ll see at the end of this entry. By all means go see the Kinetic Tree in person. There are two performances nightly, 7PM and 10PM, both are different. The Kinetic Tree  MIMI LIEN, NICK KOURTIDES, TYLER MICOLEAU

 

  PIFA began in 2011, It’s a 16-day celebration of art and community, April 8 – 23, PIFA showcases innovation
and a breadth of local and international performances and installations,
all curated by the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. With more
than 60 events across genres and art forms, PIFA is bookended by Article
13 – a grand-scale fire and sand installation that tells the story of
immigrants around the world – which serves as the grand opening of the
Festival and culminates with the celebrated PIFA Street Fair.

AND 75% of the performances are free Anne Ewers,  President & CEO of Kimmel Center, Inc told the guests gathered in Verizon Hall for a concert after dinner was served. With her on stage were the Gala co-chairs: Alfred P. West, Founder, Chairman and CEO of SEI Jami Wintz McKeon, Chair of Morgan Lewis and Bockius

The evening began with a Cocktail Reception, generously hosted by M&T Bank and Wilmington Trust. Then a delicious Garces Catering dinner was served. This was the clever first course, which represents the theme of PIFA 2016 – “We Are What We Make”, this is a soup, with ingredients on the sides of the dish. After the servers pour the broth you add any of those ingredients you like.

Each table carried the theme of the various shows that would be performed during the PIFA 2016 gala. This table has an inspiration of the Kinetic Tree, the PIFA Plaza Installation

The gala brought out the who’s who in the philanthropic, art patron society of Philadelphia

Including the most philanthropic athlete of our time, here in Philly, Connor Barwin, who was sporting snazzy sneakers with his black tie. This seems to be the latest trend, as Elizabeth Wellington from the Philly Inquirer would tell you. Look for Connor to attend the Mural Arts Wall Ball coming up 5/26/16 at The Fillmore. 

 Thanks to Jay Wahl, Artistic Director, Programming &
Presentations, Kimmel Center, Inc. for curating many of the programs
you’ll see during PIFA.
 PIFA Committee Co-Chairs:  Honorable Marjorie “Midge” Rendell and Ron Biscardi (not pictured)
Retired Judge Arthur Tilson and Dr. Thomas J. Killeen III, MD with Judge Rendell.
Ginny Susini, Assistant Vice President & Banking Advisor at PNC Wealth Management , Karin Copeland, ‎Vice President Strategic Alliances, Executive Director Arts + Business Council Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and Christina Wong, Vice President at ESM Productions
I always tell people who want to network, and I’m talking about great people network, head to an Arts & Biz Council event. Here are a few coming up.

 

 Jeff Zudeck, Emily Biscardi, Angela Parsons, Sean Denham and Valentino DiGeorgio
 Barbara Cooke and Jeanne Isaacman
 Teresa and Greg Rodgers with Anthony and Gabriella Peracchia
 Bernice Chen and Scott Alcott

 

 

 
 We Are What We Make – I’d like a pair of these please!
Darrel German  Senior Vice President – Business Banking Area Manager at Wells Fargo and Lenora German
Don’t forget to check the schedule for events you might want to see

 

 

 

 Arts patron Louise Reed (standing), with Pa Ballet Artistic Director Angel Corella and Ed Gray, President of the Pa Ballet Board, await for dinner to be served.
 Harold and Lynne Honickman with Sr. Mary Scullion, Ex director of Project Home
 550 guests were seated for dinner
 With the decor done by Uncommon Events, and Cashman & Associates doing the PR for the event.
Anne said there were more sponsor tables bought this year than in previous years, and this was thanks to the gala co-chairs
 Art patrons Richard and Diane Woosnam – they are both so warm and wonderful, impeccably dressed and informative.

 

 
 Concert Performance Rhiannon Giddens, who did covers of Bob Dylan, Dolly Parton, Patsy Cline to name a few. The audience, and I really enjoyed her performance, which was a little bit country,  rock and roll, and gospel.
For her final number, Giddens was joined by French performance troupe Compagnie des Quidams, who performed their unique show FierS à Cheval, or “Proud Horse” – an interactive show with a fantastical group of inflatable horse puppets!
 This continued in Commonwealth Plaza, then out on the street they paraded up Broad Street
To Rittenhouse Square and this fabulous performance below, before heading back to the Kimmel Center to be put in the stable for the night.
Categories
Philadelphia

(PIFA) PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS STREET FAIR details – 4/23/16

Press Release from the Kimmel Center:

KIMMEL CENTER ANNOUNCES DETAILS OF
PHILADELPHIA INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
FINALE STREET FAIR, APRIL 23, 2016
PIFA Concludes with the Most Anticipated Street Fair of the Year Featuring a
Broad Street Zip Line, International Performers, 25-foot Waterfall, Rides, and MORE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Philadelphia, April 1, 2016) –– The Kimmel
Center for the Performing Arts announced today the details of the
celebrated Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA)
Finale Street Fair. The culminating event
of the 16-day festival transforms six blocks of Broad Street (between
Chestnut and South Streets) into Philadelphia’s ultimate FREE block
party featuring dozens of performances, rides, a zip line, popular food
vendors, and this year’s centerpiece – an enormous
waterfall in the center of Broad Street across from the Academy of
Music. The 2016 PIFA Street Fair will take place on Saturday, April 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

“We are thrilled to share PIFA’s grand
finale, an amazing free event, and the Kimmel Center’s gift to
Philadelphia,” said Anne Ewers, President & CEO of the Kimmel Center
for the Performing Arts. “The Street Fair is an incredible opportunity
for the city to come together and enjoy the streets and sights they
know so well in a new way, all while interacting with international
performers, beloved local vendors, and one another!”

Dozens of performing troupes and entertainers, amusement rides, food vendors, and more will headline the PIFA Street Fair. Attendees can expect:

PERFORMER HIGHLIGHTS

·      
Squonk – Pittsburgh’s Squonk Opera presents Lady Pneumatica, a 40-foot tall inflatable accordion sculpture of a woman that plays music.
·      
Flippen Out – Extreme trampoline athletes/acrobats/artists performing high-energy stunt shows.
·      
The Living Vines – Back by popular demand from the 2011 PIFA
Street Fair, the Living Vines performers walk around on stilts, dressed
in vine and flower costumes camouflaging themselves as part of their
surroundings.
·      
Golden Mantises – Also back by popular demand from the 2013 PIFA Street Fair these beautiful, larger-than-human bugs with costumes made from handmade wicker baskets delight audiences. 
·      
Cirikli Birds – Colorfully plumed wooden puppet birds controlled by stilt performers who interact with the audience.
·      
Wheelmen – Old-timey characters on old-fashioned bicycles.

INTERNATIONAL PERFORMERS

·      
Kamchàtka – A Spanish troupe that
simulates a group of immigrants from 100 years ago who’ve just arrived
in a new land, with their suitcases in-hand.  Watch these performers
discover their surroundings for the first time.
·      
The Mamas – A group of North African
street performers who depict four giant mothers carrying their babies on
their backs with puppets and stilts, bejeweled and in colorful dresses.
·      
Les Gonfles – French dancers who perform a beautiful choreographed routine in inflatable outfits.
·      
Aerosculpture – Invented by French
artist Jean-Pierre David, the Aéroplume is an airship with fluttering
wings piloted by an individual performer that will “fly” around the
Kimmel Center.
·      
AND MORE!

RIDES
Street Fair patrons can Zip Line down Broad Street and ride amusement attractions like the
Ferris Wheel, Swings, and The Tornado.

ATMOSPHERE, INTERACTION, AND DINING

·      
Waterfall – In addition to several
grassy areas, trees, water fountains, and other natural elements, a
25-foot waterfall will be installed in the center of Broad Street,
across from the Academy of Music where patrons can
enjoy a picnic with a view.
·      
Food Vendors – In addition to more
than 30 food vendors, Garces Events will have a beer garden set up on
Spruce Street, as well as a food stand, opposite the Kimmel Center. Food
vendors to include: The Cow and the Curd,
Scratch Biscuits, and Hai Street Kitchen.

The PIFA Street Fair is free and open to the public.

A 16-day celebration of art, PIFA showcases
innovation and a breadth of local and international performances and
installations, all curated by the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts.
With more than 60 events across genres and art forms,
PIFA is bookended by Article 13 –
a grand-scale fire, sand, and water installation that tells the story
of migrants from around the world and serves as the grand opening of the
Festival – and the celebrated PIFA Street Fair.

KIMMEL CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
Located in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia, The Kimmel Center’s
mission is to operate a world-class performing arts center that engages
and serves a broad audience through
diverse programming, arts education, and community outreach. The Kimmel
Center campus is comprised of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
(Verizon Hall, Perelman Theater, SEI Innovation Studio, and the Merck
Arts Education Center), the Academy of Music
(owned by the Philadelphia Orchestra Association), and the University
of the Arts’ Merriam Theater. TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is the season sponsor of The Kimmel Center’s
2015-2016 Season.  American Airlines is the official airline of Broadway Philadelphia. For additional information, visit kimmelcenter.org.

Categories
Philadelphia

PhillyGossip: Bradley Cooper, April Fools Falls Flat, Connor Barwin & Villanova, Alex Holley is flawless even asleep, Gov Kasich Swings By Union League

Good Monday morning, what an amazing weekend. Mine was packed to the gills with events that I will be laying down here, in Philly Mag and the Philly Business Journal this week. Plus we’re getting ready to launch the refreshed, revived PhillyChitChat site. It’s been 7 years in the making. I’m not a big fan on change, but PCC was desperately in need of a makeover. Plus if you’d like to get in on the early bird ad rates, please drop me a line at Buzz@phillychitchat.com That’d be great. Welcome to Paul Sevag Motors, my new advertising. Check them out, they have great cars, specialty cars and sports cars.

Last Monday Adam Lowry  of the Winnipeg Jets, was doing the Rocky pose before his game against the Flyers. They loss, but at least he has this cool photo as a souvenir.

April Fools Day came and went. This year the fools seemed to be few and far between, many just fell flat like this secret new taco at Revolution Taco. Turns out the taco they thought would be too hard to believe, which was their April Fool’s Day joke, was actually requested by a few customers. It does look delicious I must say. A real heart attack on a plate.

Over at PhillyGayCalendar a few people did take notice of 
Donald Trump Admits to Same Sex Attraction in College
cause they asked me if I had read about it. 

Not a lot of people fell for this at the Walnut St | lululemon athletica. When I saw it I thought either it’s a play on words since they sell athletic clothing, or maybe it was a new campaign. Just in case I ran inside and asked. They said it was their April Fools Day joke. Maybe because it was Friday, and people were out enjoying the unseasonably warm day no one took notice.


This is no joke, I had both Snap Pizza and Snap Kitchen to eat on Friday.
Snap Pizza and Snap Kitchen are not the same, nor do they have the same owners. Snap Pizza is located at 1504 Sansom St, it sells healthy salads, and create your own pizza’s for $7.99 mini. delicious.  Open til 3am wkends #foodporn

Sweet T’s Good Day 20th Anniversary cake.


 I had a piece of the cake about midnight when I appeared on the Fox 29
broadcast of the special 20 hour show. Alex Holley didn’t fair so well,
everyone in TV land got to see what it was like to sleep with her. So
much fun, kinda wish I wore bigger socks. Doncha know the next day I
went to cover a party and a couple people mentioned they saw me on the
air in the middle of the night. You just never know the reach of the
media. Thanks to Quincy Harris for coming in at about 2AM and keeping me
in stitches.


Speaking of winning. Congratulations to Villanova University.  Here’s a throwback pix that Alicia Vitarelli on her first day as a freshman. Where did you watch the game Saturday night?


Al Lee and his girlfriend Danielle Sievers watched the game at Bainbridge Street Barrel house, with Eagles player Connor Barwin, well actually Connor sat near by. Where’s a good place to go tonight? Tell me on FB or Twitter. Soon I will have the capabilities for you guys to leave a comment when my new blog site launches in two weeks.

Bradley Cooper in the blue top at top left, with mom Gloria Cooper, sunglasses on below him, next to a denim clad Kate Hudson, catch the  Guns & Roses reunion in Hollywood. Also spotted on far left Lenny Kravitz, above him Chris Brown. Far right is a scary looking Nicholas Cage, next to him is Andrew Dice Clay and Jim Carey. 
Guns N’ Roses reunite at The Troubadour in West Hollywood in front of Bradley Cooper and Kate Hudson


Congrats to the Charlotte Jr Checkers who played in the Nationals this weekend. My nephew TJ plays on the team, and my brother in law Tom DeFeo is the coach. His wife Janine is the PCC Admin.


 The Wells Fargo Center was lit up blue on Saturday for Autism Awareness Day, during the Sixers game.

Lara Toscani Weems posted a photo of Sixers owner Scott O’Neil and Dan Norton, Phila Biz Journal, checking out the under-construction Sixers Training Complex in Camden, NJ. What an awesome view of Philly from there.

Josh Kruger, City of Philly, posted this shot of Philadelphian’s celebrating transgender visibility day. Speaking at the mic is Nellie Fitzpatrick, Director, Mayor’s Office of LGBT Affairs for the City of Philadelphia.

LQQK who was at the Union League last week. 

GoToWhitney.com tune into the lady who knows everything and everyone in Atlantic City here with Paris Hilton, resident DJ at Harrah’s After Dark

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47i53e6czMY&feature=youtu.be 
I think you can see that Whitney took a cue from Amy Cuddy and has perfected her power pose.


Saturday night I covered an amazing event called  

I took this photo

No Dog Gets Left Behind, but was too tired to head to the Red Ball at the Linc after being up nearly all night at Fox then covering the WDAS Women of Excellence lunch during the day.
 

OK LOOK at how fabulous these three are in their red gowns. The trend this year really was red gowns, after I moaned and growned for years that people were wearing too much black at the fundraiser thatmakes lives better for those in need. 

Hope you had a fantastic weekend. Here’s a few fun events happening this week.

Categories
Philadelphia

Gorgeous Mainline Home for $1,185,000 I Photographed For Real Estate Agent Michelle Leonard.

I’d like to think it’s my magnificent photos that keep moving these houses along (2 other houses I shot last year for Michelle Leonard sold within weeks of listing), but the truth is Michelle Leonard is an ace Mainline Realtor at Century 21. I photographed this house about 2 weeks ago, she listed it, and now it’s already pending. Mind you, another real estate agency had it in earlier in the year. She has the midas touch. (I remember saying but it’s going to be cloudy, the photos might not be as spectacular. She told me she had faith in me and it’ll all work out. And it did.

 Mainline Mansion
 sweet side yard
 I love this bay window in the kitchen, which was spectacular
The cutest powder room 
Check out the listing here
Categories
Philadelphia

It’s Not A Joke, People at Curtis are going to miss Bobbie!

Earlier this week Mike’s co-workers surprised their other co-worker Bobbie with a fabulous going away party. Bobbie is a long time reader of PhillyChitChat, and we’ve enjoyed many a FB chats over the years, although we’ve only met once. I wanted to wish her well on her retirement too.

 Thanks to Mike for taking these shots. I sure do miss a good company potluck party.

 Ironically today would have been my 25th anniversary working at Kohn Swift & Graf, but I was laid off in 2011. Yummy I miss Carol Muslowskis and Pat Wisneskies spinach dip. Whoever made this did a fab job, you can see it’s perfectly mixed.

Happy Retirement Bobbie
 Here she is with a few co-workers, Harold, who is Mike’s work BFF. They chat on the phone at least once a day when they’re not at work.

 Mike and I gifted Bobbie with a photo I took of the Penns Landing Lighted Boat Parade with the 2002 skyline.
 Hi Bianka, my other long time PhillyChitChat reader, and Bobbie’s work BFF

 She likes cats no doubt.
Mike’s going to miss Bobbie, they always had great, meaningful conversations. There’s always FB and social media to keep us connected. Congrats Bobbie, and have a fantastic retirement.
Categories
Philadelphia

Let Them Eat Cake – Some of Philly’s most decorative, and delicious cakes competing for the top prize. I have the Winners

Good Thursday day to you all. This week was crazy, so we’re a little behind here at PhillyChitChat, and by we I mean me. On Monday I went to the fabulous Let Them Eat Cake, where a dozen bakeries compete in a cake competition, proceeds from the event go to City of Hope cancer and treatment center located in LA. This year’s theme was Animation. There was a nice crowd in attendance as the event returned to the Loews after a few years absences. It was also really great to see some of the younger bakers who are very excited to be included in this very unique cake competition.

My fav cake and everything delicious would be Cakes and Candies by Maryellen (r)
here with judge Renee Patrone of Events by Renee
Some of the cakes were right on point with the theme, like Maryellen’s which was beyond spectacular, others I have to say missed the point and if they’re your wedding cake baker, be very specific with your theme.
More judges for the cake contest: Robert Bennett, Classic Cake and notably of Le Bec Fin, with Ron Ben-Israel, celebrity chef and trendsetting cake designer and Hadas Kuznits,
CBSradio, All the contestants were excited to meet Chef Ron and he
really took time with each one answering their questions and listening
to them. Other judges were Kathy Gold, Laura Burkhardt and Eric Allen as far as I could tell.
Unik Cakes in Warminster PA – They went on to win best artistry
It was pretty spectacular, although I did some other amazing cakes. So come along let’s check them out.
Pastry Chef Jennifer Roach, Cescaphe created a clever cake based on an early animation theme.
Very clever!
Even a tiny bakery like entered a cool “book cake”, which was a strawberry shortcake.
by Eliza’s Bakery in Phoenixville, Pa
TV Time with Hanna Barbra and friend by SophistiCakes Bakery Drexel Hill. Check out Scooby Doo.
It’s a pretzel cake, with peanut butter and milk chocolate mousseline. They were going for the sweet/savory taste they told me.
 
Master Bakers cake was amazing and was a chocolate/banana split cake. Chad Weldon, owner with pastry chef Danielle Zahodski
They used special edible shellac to get the shine on the car.
I ran into Cheryl Colleluori, ‎President at HEADstrong Foundation and Lori Michaliszyn.
HEADstrong Foundation was named in honor of Cheryl’s son Nick who died of cancer. They do a lot of wonderful things in his name, but my favorite is they’ve established a home for families who have a member stricken with cancer and is being treated locally. So check out their page and help them if you can.
Mole Street Artists were on hand producing with their av talents as well as having their Blues Jr band played at the gig. Trevor Walsh, Melanie Smith and Brendan Walsh, co-owner of Mole Street Artists.
I’m confused, anyway the flavor of the cake was Earl Grey.
Spectacular cake but what theme is it?

Colleen and Chase Kriebel, Kriebel’s Custom Bakery. Eagleville, PA. Yes he is named after Chase Utley.

Amazing cake. It’s the Tasmanian devil’s tornado sucking up the picnic Bugs Bunny and his lady set out. Why this cake didn’t get #1 as it says, I’ll never know. Kriebel’s Custom Bakery. Eagleville, PA

Cute, so much going on. Queen Bee’s cream cheese pound cake, passion fruit carmel, vanilla and fresh raspberries
so cute though.

 

 

Another amazing cake, this one by Merion Caterers, Cinnaminson, NJ.
Their design captured all the Disney characters from movies, and then they placed them on the countries where the movie was set.

 

Were the judges paying attention? The cake even rotated.

 

This was a spectacular cake, but no where near the theme. Chef Ben loved it and really spent alot of time with the bakers to chat about it. Tynesha Hills, Sammy Oguendo, Laura Hernadez and E Rojas
Ann of Ten Pennies with her sister Norma
There were vendors there, as well as wedding photographers, hair dressers and accessories. Here’s Ella Vanilla with her cake decorating accessories.
Natanya DiBona, Guest and Kory Aversa

 

Harry Giordano, ceo of City of Hope – Philly,  announces the winners
And the Winner is: Michelle Quier , Granny Schmidt’s Custom Cakes
Everyone loved this cake. I don’t think I saw the movie. They won the Best of Show, and Best Tasting. It was DELICIOUS. Definitely the best tasting cake at the show.

 

Richel D’Ambra Spa & Salon: Philadelphia Spa was there

They did the hair and make up for the models who were walking around in the gowns.

Danielle Raco, Spa Massage & facials, Lisa Marie Ponzio, Hair, Richel D’Ambra, owner, Karla Christine, Hai, Angela Hoxhia, Make up and Patrick Horrocks, Mgr.

Angela Hoxhia, Make up

Hope to see everyone at next year’s event. It’s a great idea, and a good cause.

CHECK OUT INSTAGRAM

TO SEE PHOTOS FROM MY TRIP TO DC THIS PAST WEEKEND.

SEE YOU TOMORROW.

 
Categories
Philadelphia

New Restaurant Coming to Rittenhouse – Pizzas, Beer and a Dining Room in the City’s Popular Bar Block

 Finn McCool, with it’s chill crowd, slowly built a crowd over the years. The Sourias family then opened BRU Craft & Wurst, U-Bahn, Uptown Beer Garden with son Teddy Sourias operating the later three. This year they’re expanding again with the new Cinder,

which is taking over the spot where Wolf’s Market had been for years (r), and closed about a year ago.

CONCEPT –
Artisanal
beer/cider bar and pizza kitchen that will spotlight on ciders and wild
ales on the taps. Food will be prepared in open kitchen using local
ingredients.  Rustic pizza using creative and classical toppings will be
prepared in custom-built wood-fired pizza oven. Beer will be poured
from full custom design system housed in copper pipes. Other features
will include wine list, custom cocktails using local spirits, catering,
brunch and happy hour. Presented by the group that brought you BRU Craft
& Wurst, U-Bahn and Uptown Beer Garden.

ADDRESS –
1500 Locust Street (Philadelphia, PA 19102)

ENTRANCE –Main
entrance is where Wolf’s Market main door was, to the right of the 1500
Locust residences (when you are facing the building) 
Randomly Fergie was riding his bike by and Teddy invited him in to check out the space, which is down to the dirt floor. 
Here are the DEETS
SQUARE FOOTAGE –
2,400

CAPACITY AND SEATING –
TOTAL inside, 65-75
TOTAL outside, 12-20

BREAK-DOWN (ESTIMATES):
– Bar, approximately 20
– Hightops in bar area, 8-10
– Dining Room, 30-40
– Private Dining/Chef’s Table, 12-14
– Banquets, plus mix of two and four tops, with larger Chef’s table

OUTSIDE SEATING –
Yes

LAYOUT –
One
big open space with the bar to the right of entrance with hightops in
the front window area; dining space and banquettes in center of room and
to the left of entrance; open kitchen to the left behind the dining
banquettes; one smaller dining area in the back of restaurant for chef’s
table/private dining.

FOOD –
Rustic
pizza with creative and classical toppings and ingredients, plus local
cheese and charcuterie boards, variety of mussel preparations,
elegant-yet-approachable appetizers and small plates. Dishes created in
open kitchen facing the dining room with focus on local ingredients.

BEER PROGRAM CONCEPT –
Cinder
aims to meet the growing regional demand for boutique and super-premium
artisanal ales and ciders. This new genre of bar takes elements of
higher-end wine and cocktail bars and mixes them with inspiration from
Belgium beer bars. The focus will be on unique beer and cider program
that identifies key styles that customers are passionate about, while
serving them in a sophisticated yet approachable environment.
Instead
of spreading the taps across the board, Cinder will keep a tight focus
on five major areas starting with ciders and wild ales, and continuing
with farmhouse and abbey ales plus golden hoppy beers. The final six
taps will be free-form for seasonal desires like strong/barrel aged in
winter and fruity in the summer.

FOOD AND BEER –
The
artisanal pizza is the perfect food to eat with any type of beer or
cider, particularly the sours and Belgian styles that we will be going
in depth into, and to accent that menu with mussels, local cheese,
charcuterie, and elegant-yet-approachable appetizers.

BEER TAPS –
30

Cinder will feature a custom beer brewed by Coppertail (Tampa, FL)- they
will do custom batches of their “Floridia Weisse” tart wheat ale, each
batch finished with different fruit!  More info on this coming. 

ANTICIPATED OPENING –
Late June to Mid July 2016
Categories
Philadelphia

Wentworth Miller Responds to the Fat Shaming Internet Meme. I turned to Food Instead of Drugs When I Was Suicidal

Today I found myself the subject of an Internet meme. Not for the first time.
This one, however, stands out from the rest.

In 2010, semi-retired from acting, I was keeping a low-profile for a number of reasons.

First and foremost, I was suicidal.
This is a subject I’ve since written about, spoken about, shared about.
But at the time I suffered in silence. As so many do. The extent of my struggle known to very, very few.

Ashamed and in pain, I considered myself damaged goods. And the voices
in my head urged me down the path to self-destruction. Not for the first
time.
I’ve struggled with depression since childhood. It’s a
battle that’s cost me time, opportunities, relationships, and a thousand
sleepless nights.
In 2010, at the lowest point in my adult life,
I was looking everywhere for relief/comfort/distraction. And I turned
to food. It could have been anything. Drugs. Alcohol. Sex. But eating
became the one thing I could look forward to. Count on to get me
through. There were stretches when the highlight of my week was a
favorite meal and a new episode of TOP CHEF. Sometimes that was enough.
Had to be.
And I put on weight. Big f–king deal.
One day,
out for a hike in Los Angeles with a friend, we crossed paths with a
film crew shooting a reality show. Unbeknownst to me, paparazzi were
circling. They took my picture, and the photos were published alongside
images of me from another time in my career. “Hunk To Chunk.” “Fit To
Flab.” Etc.
My mother has one of those “friends” who’s always the
first to bring you bad news. They clipped one of these articles from a
popular national magazine and mailed it to her. She called me,
concerned.
In 2010, fighting for my mental health, it was the last thing I needed.
Long story short, I survived.
So do those pictures.
I’m glad.

Now, when I see that image of me in my red t-shirt, a rare smile on my
face, I am reminded of my struggle. My endurance and my perseverance in
the face of all kinds of demons. Some within. Some without.
Like a dandelion up through the pavement, I persist.
Anyway. Still. Despite.

The first time I saw this meme pop up in my social media feed, I have
to admit, it hurt to breathe. But as with everything in life, I get to
assign meaning. And the meaning I assign to this/my image is Strength.
Healing. Forgiveness.
Of myself and others.
If you or
someone you know is struggling, help is available. Reach out. Text. Send
an email. Pick up the phone. Someone cares. They’re waiting to hear
from you. Much love. – W.M. ‪#‎koalas‬ ‪#‎inneractivist‬ ‪#‎prisonbroken‬
www.afsp.org
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
www.activeminds.org
www.thetrevorproject.org
www.iasp.info
www.facebook.com/notes/wentworth-miller/flour-or-wheat/1653559881523614

Wednesday in Philly

No More Running: Living with Social Anxiety Disorder

Categories
Philadelphia

What’s New at The Phillies Ballpark this Season, Who Knows Who Phoebe Phanatic is? A Phillies Puzzle and Star Wars

Good Tuesday morning. Hope you have a great Monday. It’s still a bit chilly out, but the 2016 baseball season is nearly upon us in just a few short weeks. We’re all getting ready for Opening day April 11. Last year was the first time I had gone in years and it was so fun, especially trying out all the new menu items. This year there’s even more new menu and merchandise items, and the Phillies and Aramark, Citizens Bank Park’s exclusive concessionaire and merchandise partner hosted a preview last night at the park. Sadly I couldn’t make it as I was covering the annual City of Hope’s Let Them Eat Cake, which I will write about tomorrow. Photos by Mitchell Leff.

Phoebe Phanatic gives a warm welcome to the Chick Fil-A cow. Chick Fil-A
is a new partner this year, and will be available every game except
Sundays.
 Tommy Greene becomes the first alum to be morphed into a virtual bobble,
thanks to a new Coca-Cola Morphing Station that will be located behind
Section 122.

 Members of the Galapagos Gang, who will be at the ballpark every game this season, have fun with the fans, one of which is wearing the new Phanatic hat.

The new Phanatic hat
Phoebe Phanatic, the Phanatic’s mother, reacts as a new Phanatic Bobble Head of the Month is unveiled.
 A few of the Bobble Head’s of the future
Chef Campagna debuts the new premium and concession items at Citizens Bank Park.

New Signature Hot Dogs including Beer Braised Frankfurter
with
hard cider, braised, onions and grain mustard on a pretzel roll;

  Close-up of the new Andrew Zimmern’s Korean Fried Pork Belly Sandwich, battered and fried  with grilled pineapple, gochujang sauce and chili lime salt, on a toasted bun.

 Close-up of the new Asian Dog, one of the specialty hot dogs to debut this season at Citizens Bank Park.
 Broadcaster Scott Franzke has a taste of Rita’s Italian Ice, which will be at the ballpark for the first time.

 The new Sonoran Dog, one of the specialty hot dogs to debut this season at Citizens Bank Park. 

A new Amish Turkey Burger was unveiled at Harry the K’s, made with sharp cheddar and shallot marmalade on a griddled sesame bun.
 (l-r) Chef Anthony Campagna – Aramark; John DeRenzi, Vice President of
On Premise Sales for Penn Beer, local Anheuser-Busch wholesaler; Michael
Harris, Director of Marketing & Special Events; Jeff
Moody, Chief Executive Officer, Rita’s Italian Ice; Francis Winkey (in
blue)– Merchandise Manager, Aramark; Broadcaster Scott Franzke; Tony
Monaco, Chief Operating Officer, XFINITY Live!, along with Phillies
Ballgirls and front office employees, who helped
unveil what’s new in Phillies fashion.
************
Other new items: 

New with Budweiser:
o  
Bud & Burgers:
The Phillies and Anheuser-Busch have teamed up to offer new Bud & Burger dates, which include a
special ticket offer, special offer on bud and burgers,
entertainment and giveaways (to fans age 21 and older) – all on the
Budweiser Rooftop on the following dates: Fri., May 13 vs. Cincinnati
(7:05 pm); Fri., June 3 vs. Milwaukee (7:05 pm); Fri., June
17 vs. Arizona (7:05 pm); Fri., July 1 vs. Kansas City (7:05 pm);
Thur., July 21 vs. Miami (7:05 pm);
Wed.,
August 3 vs. San Francisco (7:05 pm); Thur., August 18 vs. LA Dodgers
(7:05 pm); Thur., September 15 vs. Pittsburgh (7:05 pm).
o   
Also announced is a new
Phillies-branded Budweiser can, now available at your local retailer.
 a Phillies puzzle
Star Wars hat and Rain Poncho
NEW! Enhancements to the Fan Experience:
§ 
Ballpark App & iBeacons:
New to the Ballpark app is the addition of in-stadium offers
through iBeacon technology. Users with their Bluetooth and location
services enabled on their iOS or Android devices will receive
notifications through the app with special offers for retail,
concessions, and more.
§ 
Coca-Cola Morphing Station:
Turn into a virtual bobblehead and share via social media!
Located behind Section 122, fans can have their picture taken by the
unit’s embedded camera. The facial recognition software registers the
users face and their image appears on the 55” touchscreen, where the fan
can choose from options including hairdos, skin
tone and jerseys to customize their bobblehead. The final result: a
virtual bobblehead that fans can choose to receive by entering their
email address and then uploading directly to Facebook or Twitter.
§ 
XFINITY Live! Post-Game Specials & Monthly Parties:
New Phillies-themed Post-Game
specials and monthly parties at 1100 Social for the 2016 season.
Following every Phillies home game, this new tradition at XFINITY Live!
will feature $3 select drafts and 50% off select appetizers. The deals
begin immediately after the last out and continue
for one hour post-game. Click here for more details and Monthly Party dates.
§ 
Budweiser Digital Media Deck (Budweiser Rooftop):
Fans can view interactive social
media activity via an oversized screen, charge their mobile devices and
more. The MLB.com Ballpark check-in desk is also located in this area.
§ 
SugarHouse Instagram-to-Screen: Fans have the chance to have their posts on PhanaVision
during a Phillies game! Just share photos to @Phillies.
  • Citizens Bank – ‘New for 2016’:
    • New Ask a Phillie
      Feature on PhanaVision: Always a Phan favorite, Citizens Bank
      Ballpark Bankers and participants in the Jr. RBI program will ask your
      favorite players questions ranging from the best gift they’ve ever given
      to how best to record a strikeout.
    • Phan Rewards:
      Every Wednesday and Businesspersons Special,
      Citizens Bank customers will receive 10% off all merchandise and
      concessions at the ballpark when paying with their Citizens Bank Visa
      Debit Card. Customers purchasing tickets to these games with their debit
      cards can also take advantage of a buy, one get
      one free offer. All season long Citizens customers will receive 15% off
      when shopping for Phillies merchandise online.  Details at
      www.Phillies.com/CitizensBank.

§ 
Newborn Club:
Welcoming a new Phillies fan into the family? The Phillies Newborn Club
is the perfect way to help any bundle of joy become a fan for life.
Membership includes a Phillies Birth Certificate, Personalized
PhanaVision Birth Announcement, pre-walk sneakers, Rookie
of the Year bib
and more.

Categories
Philadelphia

Nicki Minaj Celebrates Easter in Philly, Heather Mitts Feeley Gives Birth, Dom Streater Is Pregnant, Molly Eichel is Engaged Plus More

Good Monday morning, hope you had a fantastic weekend.

Mike and I were in DC enjoying the Cherry Trees, old friends and stay at Capital Hill Hotel, located in the cutest neighborhood in DC, Capital Hill. (sponsored partnership). More on that later this week when the majority of my photos and story will be published.

 

After performing overseas to adoring fans, Nicki Minaj flew back to Philly to be with her main Easter hunny, Meek Mill, who is going into his 2nd month of house arrest.
Just a few weeks ago we saw AJ Feeley and Heather Mitts Feeley at the IMS Dance for Future Stars. She was looking stunning in her Badgley Mischka dress.

Congratulations are in order as the happy couple had a baby girl, Miss Blake Harper.

She joins brother Connor who was born 2 years ago.
Next up babies are due for  

 Todd and Elizabeth Herremans
and Brent and Celeste Celek, who were also at the event, in the late stage of their pregnancies.

Speaking of pregnancies, Philly’s other winner of Project Runway, Dom Streater, who is currently on Project Runway All Stars,
announced on her social media this weekend, that she too is pregnant. Congrats to Dom and Ivan Shpylchak on their upcoming project.

I thought the biggest story at the Eichel household this weekend would be how I was finally able to get a photo of Barbara Beck Eichel, and then put it in my PhillyMag column. She’s camera shy, but Mazol Tov to Molly and Jesse on their engagement!!

Speaking of new projects, Edward Barnes, who has worked at Saks Fifth Avenue for the past 6 years, is leaving and going to Barneys Philadelphia, located at Rittenhouse Square. He’s also notable for being a dancer in the Philadelphia Ballet. It’s like an end of an era over at Saks, first the longtime store GM leaves, then Randi Edelman and now Edward. Change is the one constant thing that happens in life.  This also tells me that Barneys of New York, is staying put after rebranding itself from Barney’s Co-op last year. So stop by and say hi.

Congrats are also in order for Joules Santos, Joan Rivera’s niece. Who won the best Easter Bonnet (homemade too) at the South Street Easter Parade yesterday. She’s wearing a gorgeous outfit bought by Matt Clifford (l).  It’s their tradition to go to the promenade, then head to the 7th Street carnival in South Philly. It was a great day to do that.

How awesome that she’s on the cover of the Philadelphia Inquirer today too.

Other notables seen at the parade yesterday: Matt, Priscilla Pantaleno and mom Alicia Vitarelli Pantaleno

Alex Holley, Fox29, Mayor Kenney and Councilman Mark Squilla  
Philly.com has a great story and photos of the event were taken by Clem Murray, check it out here.

What’s Happening TODAY:
Who is going to Let Them Eat
Cake is Philadelphia’s Wedding Cake Design competition today? Do you need VIP tickets?
I have a pair to give away. Make sure you are a subscriber to PhillyChitChat, and send me an email that you want the tickets. The 7th person will get them. I will meet you at the Loews at 530PM.
my email is buzz@philly chitchat.com thanks and have a sweet day.