The Asian Arts Initiative’s has many great events, and programs serving the community. Recently I attended the opening teception of Asian Arts Initiative’s (AAI) Spring exhibition, Dream House: Inside Music + Video , attended by art lovers, creatives and supporters to see the exhibition highlighting the shifting roles of music video as a hybrid form of creative expression beyond their musical and cinematic quality as promotional tools of the music industry. The exhibition featured eleven local and international artists.
Samantha Quinn, Operations Supervisro, Jino Lee, Marketing & Communications, and Catherine Lee
Asian Arts Initiative is a multidisciplinary arts center offering exhibitions, performances, artist residencies, youth workshops, and a community gathering space located in Philadelphia’s Chinatown North neighborhood, Asian Arts Initiative (AAI) at 1219 Vine Street.
Kim, Gabrielle, Elizabeth and Raymo
Kat and Matt
MILFADELPHIA: The Fashion Show!
Join AAI for our annual benefit as we celebrate the Moms in our lives – our Mothers, Mamas, Nanays, Ummas, Mom friends, work Moms – with a one-of-a-kind event, MILFADELPHIA: The Fashion Show! (Mothers ILove in Fashion). Everyone & their mother will be there! INFO & TICKETS
Elle and Jordan Deal
Megan Abdal-Moneim and Elizabeth Li
As one of the very few Asian American community arts centers in the country, the Asian Arts Initiative is a unique and vital civic space where artists and everyday people can think critically and creatively about the experiences of Asian Americans in Philadelphia.
The space has a karaoke room, and a small theater
The Asian Arts Initiative is a meeting place for people who lack access to mainstream media, education, and arts because of barriers of language, culture, race, and money, but is welcomed place for all.
Donors Are Heroes in support of Gift of Life Donor Program on Thursday, April 11th, 2024 held a truly FUN-FILLED evening of FOOD, DRINK, ENTERTAINMENT night of Drag Bingo.
Rest in Peace Don Freeman, co-founder with his wife Renee of Donors Are Heroes. Founded in 2001
Ryan Margolis and George Wallace
DJ Drea Da -Boo Boo kept the vibe going
Donors are Heroes is a group of volunteers dedicated to supporting Gift of Life Donor Program.
Milly Caroma, Rhonda Ringenbach, Dawn McMahon and Piper Dugan
Melanie Bacine, ReneeFreeman and Betsy Dubin
Daniel Briones, Steffi Freedman and Brian Freedman
During the 25th Anniversary Celebration, they honored the progress made to make Pennsylvania a leading force in combating climate change nationally and the role PennFuture played in defending communities against pollution and environmentally harmful policies.
Joseph Otis Minott, Lifetime Achievement Award and Patrick MacDonnell, President and CEO
Founded in 1998, PennFuture aims to tackle critical environmental issues through legal, policy, education, and communications strategies. Over the years, it has emerged as a leader in promoting clean energy infrastructure, protecting communities from air pollution, and safeguarding the state’s valuable streams.
Kimberly Allen, Chris Minott, and Jillian Minott
Charlie Howland, and Garth Connor
Char Magaro, Michael Mann, and Richard Quinn
“Our member support has been instrumental in achieving significant environmental milestones, from securing legal protections for valuable ecosystems to advancing pro-environmental legislation and empowering communities most burdened by legacy pollution and systemic racism,” said Annie Regan, PennFuture’s Campaigns Director. “Real progress is made in policy shifts. It takes people speaking up and raising awareness to these issues that we’ll see positive changes.”
David Lane, Ginger Lane, Michael Mann, and Napoleon Nelson
“PennFuture has worked over a quarter century to make advancements towards improved water quality, cleaner energy, and energy efficiency,” said PennFuture’s President & CEO Patrick McDonnell. “While that progress has been significant, it is crucial that we build on those victories to prevent the most severe consequences of climate change and ensure a healthy environment for future generations.
Our objective now is to fight for meaningful carbon reductions through cap and invest and renewable standards programs and to ensure water quality programs receive a stable source of funding.”
Volunteer Award: Peg Church, an environmental advocate from Bethlehem
Philadelphia Honorees:
Climate Champion Award: Michael E. Mann, climate scientist, professor, and author
Lifetime Achievement Award: Joseph Otis Minott, environmental attorney and former executive director of the Clean Air Council
Champion of the Environment Award: Rep. Napoleon Nelson, state representative for District 154
Volunteer Award: Peg Church, an environmental advocate from Bethlehem
Thanks to Talya Hailey, Philly Chit Chat team member for capturing.
Happy Tuesday, spring is in the air, even if it doesn’t feel like it. I see the big tent is in place for the 62nd Edition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art – The Philadelphia Show this week.
Also this is the last weekend for Darnel’s Cafe’s pop up at Bok Bar.Joe Lope and Kyle Cuffie-Scott co-owners of Darnel’s Cafe at Bok Bar Friday night when I stopped by to pick up a delicious BLT sandwich.
Peyton Manning was spotted shopping on Walnut Street Saturday, while in town for his daughter Madison‘s volleyball tournament at the convention center. It was there he ran into Marvin Harrison Sr. a former professional football player who was a wide receiver for 13 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League, playing much of it with quarterback Peyton, was born and lives in Philly. Peyton posted this photo on his IG Sunday.
Have you seen it? Jason Kelce’s new Tesla Truck. Since his retirement he’s been spotted all over town, like our own “Where’s Waldo?” (The Indie Shelf Philly) Monday he was spotted in South Philly getting his haircut.
Jason Kelce pointing out one of his favorite bumper stickers to his hairdresser Libby Hitt, who also shears a few other Eagles heads.
Jim Dever, Bank of America and Dr. Lynn Dever were co-chairs of the event, which attended by a record number of guests, and raised over a million dollars.
Last night, the Franklin Institute celebrated its 200th year, The Franklin Institute Awards pays tribute to our namesake and America’s first citizen scientist, Benjamin Franklin, by honoring the greatest minds in science, engineering, and industry, through their boundless creativity and passion for discovery.
2024 Franklin Institute Awards Laureates David A. Weitz, Ph.D., Harvard University Lisa Su, Ph.D., AMD Gabriela S. Schlau-Cohen, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology Paula T. Hammond, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology Janet F. Werker, Ph.D., O.C., FRSC, The University of British Columbia Paul D. N. Hebert, Ph.D., FRSC, O.C., University of Guelph Robert M. Metcalfe, Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin Joanne Chory, Ph.D., The Salk Institute for Biological Studies Mary C. Boyce, Ph.D., Columbia University
Morgan and Nick Morris of Manhattan
Spring Gala Season is in full bloom, with events happening nearly every night, all for a good cause.
Beverly Deavens and Gregory E. Deavens President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross
Since its inception, The Franklin Institute Awards Program has honored the most influential scientists, engineers, and inventors who have significantly advanced science and technology. The roster of more than 2,000 laureates includes luminaries such as Nikola Tesla, Marie and Pierre Curie, Orville Wright, Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, Jane Goodall, Stephen Hawking, and more recently, vaccine pioneers Kizzmekia Corbett, Drew Weissman, and Katalin Karikó. Notably, 125 of these laureates have also received the Nobel Prize.
Jackie and Eric Kraeutler
Hugh Stravick, Senior Vice President, Client & Community Relations · PNC and Kristin Stravick
Hugh and I have a special bond, cause I think we’re the only two in Philly with the same name, who see each other regularly; and on occasion we see Hugh Lavery. SVP of Govt Affairs, Jefferson Health.
Dara Oliver and Doug Oliver, PECO
Dr. Nina Radcliff, Board Certified Anesthesiologist Orange is the new black it’s better than that actually in sequins ! and Anthony Murray, my fellow bird watching friend.
Andrea Freundlich, Jerry Wind and Barbara Eberlein
Kimberly Doolittle, Esq and Lindsay Craig exploring the more than life size heart inside the museum.
Dr. Joan O’Shea, Neurosurgeon and Amany Mansour Awad, Founder, Board Member at Chemistry Rx |Founder and CEO at Bloop
Larry Dubinski is the President & CEO of The Franklin Institute greets guests as they arrive at the Franklin Institute
“The 200-year legacy of The Franklin Institute Awards stands as a shining example of our dedication to honoring those who have made significant strides in advancing scientific knowledge,” said Larry Dubinski, President and CEO of The Franklin Institute. “In this milestone year, the Awards Program will celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our 2024 laureates and serve as a reminder of The Franklin Institute’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to shaping the future of science and technology.
Bonnie Grant, PCMA Greater Philadelphia Chapter, Laura Swartz, Chief Executive Officer and President · World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and Donna Farrell, senior vice president of Corporate Communications for Independence Blue Cross
Dr. Thanuja Hamilton and Nicholas Perugino (r) enjoying the pre awards reception.
Vishal Patel and Kernika Gupta – Director – Independence Blue Cross
Additional photos from the event can be seen on CBSPhilly, as well as Main Line Today in the June issue, and Philly Style Magazine in the July Issue.
UArts President Kerry Walk, PhD, introduces James Brandon Lewis at the Inaugural Music on the Square
UArts kicked off their new music series UArts Music on The Square earlier this month at the Philadelphia Art Alliance at the University of the Arts on Rittenhouse Square with a concert by James Brandon Lewis & Neil Podgurski Molecular Systematic Music Duets
After the concert there was a reception with cocktails and charcuterie David Kelly, Vicky Hall. Tom Cardosi and Andrew Kleeman, Parents & Family Council UArts
Andrew Pack, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Harriet and Larry Weiss, UArts supporters
Music on the Square has two more evening performances scheduled for you to enjoy.
Miranda Powell, Director of Campus Events and Scheduling UArts and Jean Murphy, Manager for Annual Fund & Leadership Giving, Office of Advancement
Join University of the Arts at the historic Philadelphia Art Alliance for a spring concert series featuring The No Name Pops. Each evening performance showcases a unique program presented by this new, versatile ensemble.
Carol Graney, VP for Academic Affairs, UArts and Daniel Tucker, Program Director, Museum Studies UArts
Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts 251 S. 18th Street
Join us for an evening of musical brilliance as the No Name Pops Jazz Quintet, which includes professors and a professor emeritus from the University of the Arts, pay homage to the timeless tunes of George Gershwin and Cole Porter. From the soul stirring melodies of “Our Love Is Here To Stay” to the toe-tapping rhythms of “Anything Goes,” immerse yourself in a journey through the golden era of American music, alongside your No Name Pops! Tickets $50, $35
David and Vicky Kelly with Andrew Kleeman
Fashionistas Tom and Jamie Cardosi
Audrey Ellis and Jonathan Fineberg, Founding Director, PhD in Creativity UArts
Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts 251 S. 18th Street
Experience a tribute to Anthony Newley, curated by featured vocalist Eddie Bruce, with The No Name Pops Jazz Quintet, which includes professors from University of the Arts. With fervor and authenticity, Bruce channels Newley’s wit and ingenuity and leaves audiences captivated. Featuring iconic renditions of “Pure Imagination” and “Feeling Good,” this concert honors the enduring legacy of one of show business’ most remarkable and underrated songwriters. See you at Music on the Square
Opera Philadelphia President David B. Devan was honored during a special event at the 23rd Street Armory March 9, 2024, the longtime leader of Opera Philadelphia will step down in June 2024, at the end of the season.
David B. Devan and husband Rev David A. Dubbeldam
Eddie and Rachel Eitches
David Levy and Frank Luzi, Founder & President at Luzi Media, who’s client is Opera Philadelphia, where he was the VP of Marketing for nearly 12 years
Susan Long, Andy Szabo, Ivy and Gary Kaplan (the 2 NY Giants fans walked in the 2023 5k Eagles Autism Challenge. last year to celebrate their beautiful grandchildren, Ari, and Davina. This years walk is coming up May 18.)
Leslie Miller and Richard Worley, philanthropists who recently made an incredible generous gift to the Kimmel Center at Ensemble Arts Philly, which will be going toward renaming the home of the Philadelphia Orchestra, currently, Verizon Hall. The officially re-dedication of Verizon Hall to Marian Anderson Hall will take place on June 8, in the afternoon. That evening is the 2nd annual Great Stages Gala and concert, and the first performance in the newly renamed hall.
Jamie Ray-Leonetti
Anita and James Dupree
Susan Long, Andy Szabo, Ivy and Gary Kaplan
Thanks to team photographer Andre Flewellen for photographing this event for PhillyChitChat
Stephen Klasko and Sarah Marshall
Board chair Steven Klasko told WHYY ‘s Peter Crimmins, “He [Devan] literally created a company in step with Philadelphia, created a very urban, new wave opera company”, “We have become one of the leaders in adding new American operas to the repertoire.”
The very talented John Jarboe of The Bearded Ladies, emceed and entertained for his long time friend, and his friends.
The company created 18 new operas during Devan’s tenure, which have subsequently been produced over 330 times by other companies in 10 countries. Opera Philadelphia also created a series of highly produced operatic films as part of its pandemic-inspired digital service. The soundtrack for one of them, “Soldier Songs,” was nominated for a Grammy Award.
John Jarboe with an epic piano hat
Joshua Blue
Devan was serenaded by vocalists who’ve performed with Opera Philadelphia including Will Liverman (’10 Days in a Madhouse’), John Holiday (‘We Shall Not Be Moved’), Daniela Mack (‘Carmen’), Ashley Marie Robillard and Joshua Blue (‘La bohème’)
Ashley Robillard
Stephen Klasko, Former president of Thomas Jefferson University flew into town from his Florida home, with long time friend Sarah Marshall, philanthropist and Board Member · USAFA Foundation, HelpUsAdopt.org, Pennsylvania Ballet, Opera Philadelphia
Jan Shaeffer and Jane Pepper, Chairman at Longwood Gardens Inc., formerly the president of Philadelphia Horticultural Society
Devan’s last full production with Opera Philadelphia, will be Puccini’s ‘Madame Butterfly’ for his grand finale (April 26 to May 5).
Opening Night Reception: The Good Person of Setzuan at the Wilma Theater; On stage through April 21.
On April 5, Wilma Theater celebrated the opening of The Good Person of Setzuan with a reception for subscribers, supporters and friends. Something they do for every opening, which is so nice. The guests mingle with each other as well as with creative leaders of the Wilma and the play they are about to see.
Wilma Theater Managing Director Leigh Goldenberg, Justin Jain, Director and Yury Urnov, co-artisitc director The Good Person of Setzuan
Eva and Michael Leeds, Carl Sheingold and Janice Madden
The play was written by the German dramatist Bertolt Brecht, in collaboration with Margarete Steffin and Ruth Berlau. In Brecht’s play, Shen Te, a kind-hearted prostitute, struggles to maintain her goodness in a harsh world where survival often requires compromise and self-interest. When she inherits a sum of money, she uses it to open a tobacco shop and help those in need. However, her altruism is quickly taken advantage of, forcing her to create a ruthless alter ego, Shui Ta, to protect herself and her business interests.
Javier Mojica is the House Manager of The Wilma Theater
Jessica Johnson and Jaylene Clark Owens
Kevaughn Harvey and Gayle Smith
Jen Bohnenberger and Cat Bohnenberger
Debbie Fluck and Zoe Goldberg Smothern
Joan and Bill Goldstein
Donnell Powell and John Myers
Bash, Kel Fleming and Dezi
Theater goers in the Good Karma Cafe at the Wilma Theater waiting for the show to start. The Good Person of Setzuan at the Wilma Theater; On stage through April 21. INFO here.
Philly Continues to Be Exciting this week. Hope to spot some WWE Superstars and their fans. Send me tips. See you out and about, Socially Yours, HughE
Kaley Cuoco Instagram
Actor Kaley Cuoco (The Big Bang Theory and The Flight Attendant) was hinting to her followers over the past few months that she was headed to Pennsylvania, and now we know why. Her partner, actor Tom Pelphrey is filming the HBO series Task Force along with Mark Ruffalo, from writer and produced by “Mare of Easttown’s” Brad Ingelsby and directed and produced by Jeremiah Zagar, who last directed Hustle with Adam Sandler.
Task Force filming inside Ralph’s Restaurant a few weeks ago
Task Force: Takes place in the working-class Philadelphia suburbs and follows an FBI agent at the helm of a special task force. His goal is to put an end to a string of drug house robberies led by an unwary householder.
Deadline reports this week Task Force (the working title) has added five more actors in recurring: Raphael Sbarge (Once Upon a Time), Mickey Sumner (Snowpiercer), Brian Goodman (Fatal Attraction), Elvis Nolasco (Godfather of Harlem), and Colin Bates (American Rust).
Kaley Cuoco and Tom Pelphrey celebrated their daughter Matilda’s 1 year birthday in Philly last week with a Minnie Mouse themed birthday party according to People magazine.
On Tuesday 4/16 Chichester Ave will close between Boothwyn and Mill Roads. From 7pm through 6am according to @upperchichester (Inquirer) Chichester Avenue will be temporarily closed at night due to a project by HBO.
Happy Birthday to a very generous women who treated about 150 of her friends to one of the best birthday parties they’ll ever attend. The Miller Theater on the Avenue of the Arts (Broad Street) was the scene of a Tuscan Village in Italy, as the theater was transformed with elaborate decorations, over the top flowers flown in from California and even a tiled roofed villa with a full moon shining down, to set the scene.
Guests dined on Garces‘ catering, as they were serenaded by friend Andrea Bocelli, the Italian tenor, singer-songwriter, who flew in for the occasion. If that wasn’t enough, there was a surprise performance by Sting who joined Bocelli singing a very moving Amazing Grace. Sting stayed on to sing highlights of his career including my favorite “Every Step You Take.”
I wasn’t able to get a photo of the performers, but I caught their cars leaving the theater around 9:15pm. (it was drizzling, cold, I was hungry. and had no idea what time they were going to leave. I lucked out as I circled the block when a spot opened across from Latimer Street and was able to get these shots and a video. Ahh the old days I’d be out there hustling harder, lol)
This is not an April Fools Day Joke. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce flew into Philly airport ie Atlantic Aviation, on Easter morning at about 9AM. They presumably headed to Jason and Kylie’s house in Haverford to spend the day with family. The “End Game” couple then headed to the Four Seasons Hotel to spend the night (When touring Taylor always stays at the Ritz, but Travis, who was last in town for his brothers retirement announcement, stayed at the Four Season’s. When she toured last summer she did have JG George stay open late for dinner after the Saturday night concert), They flew out this morning around 10am.
The final destination today is Hollywood for the IHeart Radio Awards show tonight; their plane touches down around 12:30pm pacific time. Taylor is leading in the nominations. Tonight might be their official Red Carpet debut together. They did appear on the gold carpet at the Gucci after party on Oscar Night, but that was for a private event.
Today Show: This morning did you catch Kylie Kelce on The Today Show chatting about Eagles Autism Foundation this morning . Such a good interview, lots of Jason chat as well, she is such a supporter of his -All cards are on the table, he can do whatever he sets his mind to. He is so talented she told Hoda & Savanah. Kylie did not mention Taylor or Travis’ Easter dinner appearance. All that was mentioned of loved up couple was it was fun to see them together.
Then everyone headed out to the plaza where more about the work Kylie and the Eagles do on behalf of the Eagles Autism Foundation.
April Is Autism Awareness Month and the Philadelphia Eagles are inviting fans, arts and culture enthusiasts, autism supporters, and the community to experience a new gallery adorned exclusively with Eagles-themed masterpieces. The Eagles’ art gala, “Green Is the Heart Inspired,” will run from Thursday, April 11, to Sunday, April 14, at the award-winning Arch Enemy Arts gallery in Philly’s historic Old City District.
Speaking of former Eagles Players.
The Ertz Family Foundation (Julie and Zach Ertz) will host a benefit concert for House of Hope featuring Matt Quinn of indie rock band Mt. Joy, and surprise guests, at Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia on Friday, April 12.
Tickets went on sale today exclusively at brooklynbowl.com/philadelphia. A preshow package including a meet and greet, cocktails, light bites, bowling and photo opportunities, are also available.
House of Hope, a project supported by The Ertz Family Foundation, provides education, technology, and nutrition products and services to combat the ongoing food insecurity, gun violence, and drug use Philadelphia is experiencing.
After a pause that left many yearning for its delightful aromas and communal vibrancy, the much-loved Red Gravy Cook-Offis making a triumphant return, stirring excitement among food enthusiasts and community members alike. Organized by the East Passyunk Crossing Civic Association, this cherished event promises to rekindle the spirit of community and culinary excellence that has been its hallmark.
I hope you had a wonderful Easter, for those who celebrate, as well as a time to reconnect with friends and family. This year was the first time in 14 years I didn’t attend the Easter Parade on South Street. I love it, and I will return, but I was excited to try something different this year and that was enjoying a lovely brunch with friends hosted by TV personality Brian Balthazar (r) and Dennis St. Germain (standing), real estate agent to the stars, but he’d never tell you that. (They moved to our area during the pandemic, here’s their home feature on The Today Show.) Rounding out this photo are my friends Rich and Jimmy Eib, owner of 1600 Spruce Interior Design & Home
The Cherry Trees seem to bloom earlier and earlier each year. I hope you had a chance to see them this weekend. They were so beautiful and bountiful. I’m heading into the busy Spring Social Season, but I am going to work hard at not getting overwhelmed and will post here at least 3 times a week.
