Categories
Philadelphia

MAC’S TAVERN in Rittenhouse Square at 19th and Chestnut – Not Happening, Pearl Properties Monopolizes

I recently learned that the long talked about Mac’s Tavern on the west side of Broad Street, is not going to happen at 1904 Chestnut Street after all. Seems Little Pete, who owns the property, has sold the spot to Pearl Properties. 

 If you’re not familiar with Pearl Properties, you should be; they are the preeminent developers of such great apartment buildings of late as The Sansom, and one I recently covered The Granary, which

they have since sold at a decent profit.
When I heard the Little Pete’s property was sold, and verified it with Little Pete (he runs an eatery in my condo building), a lightbulb went off. Hey Pearl Properties owns the vacant lot next to the Little Pete’s property. I remember years ago when 1904 was Pearl, the Stein brothers wanted to buy it to expand on their popular nightclub, but Pearl Properties wouldn’t sell it. Anyway …
 I checked with a few people, and sure enough Pearl Properties bought the recently closed Dollar Store (the sale was recorded at the end of October); now I hear the building that houses the Qdoba is also under contract. I’m excited to see what happens next with this parcel of land, which is a few blocks away from the tony Rittenhouse Square; I’m sure it will be a first class, amenities filled apartment building no doubt, especially if you’ve seen their other projects. It’s great to see the City is making a huge comeback with so many new living spaces being developed, and it’s exciting to see a Chestnut Street revival. Now if only the plans for the Boyd Theater could be executed (see Michael Klein’s column), which is the building on the other side of the empty property to the right near the tree.
Categories
Philadelphia

KANYE AND KIM KARDASHIAN EAT THEIR WAY THROUGH PHILADELPHIA

Thanks to my tipster who texted me Saturday morning to tell me about Kanye and Kim eating at Wendy’s 15th and Chestnut Streets late Friday night, I was the first news organization to get the word out. 
This shot was taken by boogasuga Friday night as Kanye was chowing and Kim was texting, cause she’s on the Atkins Diet and there’s really nothing at Wendy’s for her, PLUS seriously she was probably texting Reggie Bush “This fool took me to Wendy’s and not Del Frisco’s across the street!!”, please take me back and get rid of that ho look a like!!
Then Saturday night a friend texted me to tell me Kimye were at Serafina having dinner, but I couldnt get away as I was with Mike enjoying The Attic’s 20th Anniversary Gala at Crystal Tea Room. (which I’ll write about later in the week, and talk about on Good Day Philly today at 937AM)
I was the first to let you know about their dinner in Philly Saturday night when I tweeted the above. (note the tweet before mine was dated 7/15 when Kimye hit up the NYC Serafina.)
On the menu:
A source said Kim “ordered for herself, and had the truffle pizza and chardonnay. Kanye had the rigatoni bolognese.”  Then an hour later the dude was on stage at the Wells Fargo Center working it off!!
Then the duo flew out of Philly, with Khloe, on their private jet to Boston. 
There’s a story about what Kim & Kanye were wearing The Daily Mail today here.
Follow me on twitter to be the first one to know about celebrities, tidbits and important events in Philly
Categories
Philadelphia

20th GORE-TEX ® Philadelphia Marathon RESULTS – 2013

A Spectacular Day of Running and Celebration at the
20th GORE-TEX ® Philadelphia Marathon
International runners claim the top spots in the marathon as the course record falls in women’s half marathon.
PHILADELPHIA  (November 17, 2013) — Celebrating the 20th running
of the Marathon, there was plenty of excitement among the crowd of more
than 60,000 that lined the race course to cheer on the field of 30,000
registered participants. 
Amid excellent conditions, including a start time temperature of 52 degrees, Ethiopian Abebe
Mekuriya, a seasoned marathoner running his first marathon on U.S.
soil, captured the 2013 GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon title with time
of 2:17:35.  In the women’s division, Russian Irina Alexandrova took the
top spot with a time of 2:39:06.
Marathon
While Mekuriya captured the crown in the Men’s Marathon, fellow Ethiopian Tesfaye
Dube of NY finished second with a time of 2:18:15 and Nick Hilton,
running his first-ever marathon, captured third with a time of 2:19:36.
“At mile sixteen I felt like I had the win if I just continued to run my race,” said the 2013 GORE-TEX ® Philadelphia Marathon Men’s Champion Abebe Mekuriya.  “I was excited to win my first race here in the United States.”
Following Alexandrova , the Women’s field was rounded out by two Ethiopian runners,

Tezeta Dengersa of Washington, DC who finished second with a time
of 2:40:13, followed by Meseret Basa (now of New York, NY) who clocked
in at 2:40:51.

“The
course was great, the crowds and today’s conditions were very good.  I
felt comfortable during the race.  I very much wanted to win today and
am very happy with my win,” said The 2013 GORE-TEX ® Philadelphia
Marathon Women’s Champion Irina Alexandrova.
Jae
Yung Hyung of Alburquerque, NM took the top spot in the Men’s Masters
division, as Mary Pardi took the title in the Women’s Masters division.  
Half Marathon
The
cheering fans along Benjamin Franklin Parkway erupted as Rkia El Moukim
crossed the finish line with a record-setting performance, taking the
top spot in The GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Half Marathon Women’s division. 
Her 1:10:53 performance broke the record set last year by Misiker
Mekonnin Demissie.   El Moukim also set a course record at yesterday’s
Rothman 8K. 
There
was a repeat winner in the men’s division as well, as Elijah Karanja
won today’s half marathon after also capturing the title at yesterday’s
Rothman 8K.  Karanja, who trains alongside the 2013 GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon Women’s champion Irina Alexandrova, clocked in at 1:02:59.
Eric Shafer of Pittsburgh, PA took the title in the Men’s Master division  of the Half Marathon, as Vicky Jasparro Fredericksburg, VA took first in the Women’s Masters division. 
Celebrating 20 Years of Running
“Whether it’s runners over the past 20 years, the thousands toeing the start line this weekend, or a future generation 20 years from now, runners will continue to run,” said Kirk Christensen, GORE-TEX® Running Footwear Global Leader.  “GORE-TEX® footwear is proud to be part of this milestone year of a long-standing Philadelphia tradition.”
Although much has changed for the race over the past 20 years, one thing remains the same – the GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon continues its commitment to making Race Weekend memorable for everyone involved. In 1994, there was a cross race registration total of 1,500, compared to this year’s 30,000 registered runners.
Results

Runners can go to PhiladelphiaMarathon.com to review today’s results.

MARATHON
Men’s Division Marathon                
Abebe Mekuriya, City Falls, NY 2:17:35
Tesfaye Dube, New York, NY 2:18:15
Nicholas Hilton, Flagstaff, AZ 2:19:36
Birhanu Mekonnen, Washington, DC 2:19:59
Abiyot Endale, Bronx, NY 2:20:55
Women’s Division Marathon
Irina Alexandrova, Hebron, KY 2:39:06
Tezeta Dengersa, Washington, DC 2:40:13
Meseret Basa, New York, NY 2:40:51
Aregash Abate, High Falls, NY 2:42:41
Amanda Marino, Jackson, NJ 2:43:57
Men’s Masters Division Marathon
Jae Yung Hyung, Alburquerque, NM 2:24:40
Rich Burke, Morristown, NJ 2:31:20
Ray Pugsley, Potomac Falls, VA 2:34:06
Doug Fernandez, Richmond, VA 2:37:49
Women’s Masters Division Marathon
Mary Pardi, Falmouth, ME 2:53:39
Myriam Grenon, Longueuil, QC, Canada 2:59:16
Catherine Spiess, New Albany, OH 3:06:15
Kim Redden, Ottawa, MB Canada 3:06:45
               
Men’s Wheelchair Marathon
Grant Berthiaume, Tuscon, AZ 2:04:26
   
HALF MARATHON
Men’s Division Half Marathon
Elijah Karanja Hebron, KY 1:02:59
Direba Yigezu New York, NY 1:03:23
Jordan Chipangama Flagstaff, AZ 1:03:28
Yonas Mebrahtu East Flagstaff, AZ 1:03:53
Henry Rutto Royersford, PA 1:04:10
Women’s Division Half Marathon
Rkia El Moukim Queens, NY 1:10:53
Adrienne Herzog, Boulder, CO 1:12:59
Jane Murage, Royersford, PA 1:12:59
Ingrid Mollenkopf, Flower Mound, TX 1:13:04
Allison Mendez, Austin, TX 1:13:47
Men’s Masters Half Marathon
Eric Shafer, Pittsburgh, PA 1:13:21
Paul Thompson, Peekskill, NY 1:13:23
Kevin Beugless, Media, PA 1:17:05
Martin Fontaine, Otterburn Park, QC Canada 1:17:51
   
Women Masters Half Marathon
Vicky Jasparro Fredericksburg, VA 1:25:24
Jill Tenny, Harrisburg, PA 1:21:24
Susanne Vanzijl, Elkton, MD 1:29:49
Vicki Boyer, Elizabethtown, PA 1:29:42
   
Men’s Wheelchair Half Marathon
    Shannon Franks, College Park, MD  1:09:53
    Daniel Wheeler, Shamong, NJ  2:11:44         
Women’s Wheelchair Half Marathon
    Michelle Wheeler, New York, NY 1:30:51
  
The GORE-TEX® Philadelphia
Marathon weekend attracts more than 3,000 volunteers, 30,000 runners
and 60,000 spectators to Philadelphia to experience “20 Years, For the
Love of Running”.  Race Weekend features the GORE-TEX®Philadelphia
Marathon and Half Marathon on Sunday, November 17; the Rothman Institute 8K and Kids Fun Run on Saturday, November 16; and a free two-day Health & Fitness Expo Friday, November 15 and Saturday, November 16.
Race participants pass many of Philadelphia’s famous attractions on the
swift and scenic USATF-certified course, which is a Boston qualifier.
Take the first step to experiencing 26.2 miles of fun, beauty, history
and excitement by visiting www.philadelphiamarathon.com. Be sure to get connected with us on Facebook (facebook.com/philadelphiamarathon),
Twitter (@philly_marathon) and Instagram (@philly_marathon) to stay
up-to-date with the latest GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon news. 
Categories
Philadelphia

PHOTOS: CHEF GALA FOR MARCH OF DIMES (Philly Mag Link) & PAFA Bacchanal Wine Gala (Philly.com)

  Daria Pew,  Larry Kaiser and Lindy Snider. Daria & Lindy had never met each other before I put them in this shot together.
 Phillydotcom’s Out and About Photos: PAFA Bacchanal Wine Gala and Auction
Fran Fattah and Megan Smith, Brownstone PR at the March of Dimes event on Tuesday night.
Philly Mag’s HughE Dillon – The Scene
Categories
Philadelphia

LINDA CREED FOUNDATION HONORING me & Beverly Brownstein on 12/7/13 & THANKS TO UNITE FITNESS FOR FUNDRAISER

I’m so behind in posting this, but I truly am grateful for both Unite Fitness and the Linda Creed Foundation. If you can donate something for their fabulous auction that would be terrific.
************************
Please mark your calendar and plan to join THE LINDA CREED FOUNDATION on Saturday, December 7,
2013 from 11:00 AM-2:00PM, at the Hilton on City Avenue, for our 2013
“Enchanted Holidays” event. (They’re honoring me for Volunteer of the Year.)

 
They are also honoring  Beverly B. Brownstein who passed away this year of breast cancer. I took this photo of Carol Saline and Beverly last year.

If you have something you’d like to donate to the silent auction I would appreciate it. (just send me an email buzz@phillychitchat.com ) Thanks HughE

Here’s a partial list of silent auctions and raffle prizes:
– Tickets to Sporting Events (Eagles, Phillies, 76’ers)
– Orchestra Tickets
– Museum Tickets
– Jewelry
– Gift Certificates to some of Philly’s Finest Stores and Restaurants
– Hotel and Spa Packages
– and much, much more

Tickets are $55 each or $500 for a table of 10. Special Remembrance is
also available in the Program Book for $25 per name. You can purchase
your tickets on line from our web site. Complete donor information and
then choose “Event Registration” from ‘Gift Type.” Put the number of
tickets and names of those attending in the “Comment” section. You may
also list your Names of Remembrance in the ‘Comment’ section as well.

Program Book ads are also available. Please call the office.
– Full page $250
– Half page $125
– Sponsor a Mammogram $50

https://www.lindacreed.org/donations-online.php.

Please call the office at 215-564-3700 with any questions.

www.lindacreed.org
Like us on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/LindaCreedBreastCancer
Follow us on Twitter:
twitter.com/LindaCreedBC

Thank you to Gavin McKay and Unite Fitness for their generous donation of nearly $800 for Pink Thursday on October, where proceeds from their workout classes went to The Linda Creed Foundation, an organization that I have volunteered at for the past 6 years.

Categories
Philadelphia

Pennsylvania 6 Starts It’s Sunday Brunch with delicious food and a DJ

Last weekend Christie Honigman of The Honigman group, and I hosted the inaugural brunch at Pennsylvania 6, which will happen every Sunday going forward.

No doubt you’ve heard of Pennsylvania 6 restaurant as it’s the city’s hottest dining establishment. Located in Midtown Village the restaurant offers something for
everyone including a menu that has enough options for someone to enjoy
something different every single day of the week.

Your servers

Crab Benedicts
 CJ Honigman and Caitlin Fasano
Mike Toub, Kory Aversa and Tim Young are in the house.
Angela Giampolo and Jeb Rehmann

The place was perculating by 1PM, the bar was full, lots of people were seated for a delicious brunch which included PE6 Omlette with butternut squash, potatoes and goat cheese,
Kristin Deterline, Jacklin Rhodes and Marisa Magnatta
Christie Honigman going over the list with Chad
 Rachel and Jason Cevera with Evan and Lynsie Solomon
Grilled steak salad was delicious

Libations included Sir Mosa a rosemary-orange infused vodka, with allagash white, sparkling brut and OJ

 

Vasiliki Tsiouris loved her french toast with cranberry compote, vanilla sweet cream and raosted pecans.

Noah Hoffman, Lisa Hwang and guests
  Lynsie said this was the best half chilled lobster she’s ever had. She thinks it was even more than a half.

Christie, Jennifer Bisicchia and Carie Brescia. Also on hand Christine Maddela over Carie’s shoulder.

Tony Piazza, Chad and Laura Coates
Andrew Rosenthal, Jennifer Fatalevich and Maria Papadakis

Dj Adrien Hardy Spinning the tunes

 

Thanks Chef Marc Plessis for a delicious brunch. Check out the new Pennsylvania 6 Brunch every Sunday starting at NOON.
114 S 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
(267) 639-5606
Categories
Philadelphia

JUSTIN GUARINI GETS CAUGHT IN SWAROVSKI

“See
Who Got Caught in Swarovski” is a series of posts sponsored by Swarovski. Find out more about Swarovski at getcaughtphilly.com.

 The
latest famous face to get caught in Swarovski is Philly’s favorite Idol, Justin
Guarini. 
  Justin
remains based locally, but his work keeps him traveling. In these shots, I
caught him before he headed to New York for his evening performance in “Romeo and
Juliet” on Broadway with Orlando Bloom and Condola Rashad.
Justin
was fun to catch in Swarovski, playing running off with a tray filled with some
of the men’s line, which included men’s pieces like Black Diamond crystal cuff
links, Revolution Leather Cuff and Veloce pendant.  

He also
captured a bit of the holiday spirit, with one of Swarovski’s Holiday ornaments
and crystalline cocktail glass
 
Break a
leg on Broadway, Justin.
“See
Who Got Caught in Swarovski” is a series of posts sponsored by Swarovski. Find out more about Swarovski at getcaughtphilly.com.
Categories
Philadelphia

GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon Details on event transportation, parking, security and cultural institutions near race route.

Please
see information below and attached concerning the Philadelphia
Marathon this weekend. 

For the love of running
   
     
FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE

City and GORE-TEX® Philadelphia
Marathon officials announce plans for upcoming
20th annual race on the Ben
Franklin Parkway
Details on event transportation, parking,
security and cultural institutions near race route.

(Philadelphia, November 8, 2013)– City and
Gore-Tex Philadelphia Marathon officials released details about plans for the
20th annual race on November 15-17 on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and areas
across the city.

The City of Philadelphia
will welcome 60,000 spectators and more than 30,000 runners – the largest
field in its history  –  at the 2013 The GORE-TEX Philadelphia
Marathon Race Weekend. Beginning Friday, November 15, and running through
Sunday, November 17.  Race Weekend offers an action-packed series of
activities featuring three competitive races as well as history exhibits at
City Hall and the Marathon Health & Expo.

Races through the city’s hip and historic streets,
activities, and fun for the whole family will allow runners and spectators to
get a taste of Philadelphia’s
beauty, culture, heritage and hospitality. From a high five with Mayor Michael
A. Nutter at the starting line to a Philly Finish near the Philadelphia Museum
of Art on the Benjamin Franklin
Parkway — and all the scenic miles in between —
the Philadelphia Marathon ensures  runners and guests a great Race Weekend
experience.

“We are excited to show marathoners and spectators that
we are a premiere destination city with a great sports tradition,” said
Mayor Nutter. “This year, we welcome our new title sponsor, GOR-TEX®
Running Footwear, as well as an expanded schedule of activities to celebrate
the Marathon’s 20th
anniversary.  The Philadelphia Marathon continues to grow as a top-10
national marathon featuring a scenic course, enthusiastic spectators, more than
3,000 dedicated volunteers, community involvement, special discounts for
runners around the city, and fun weekend of activities for the entire
family.”

The following is pertinent information about
parking, transportation, weather alerts, the cultural institutions in the
Parkway area and security in conjunction with the GOR-TEX Philadelphia
Marathon:

 RACE WEEKEND ACTIVITIES

Friday, November 15 and Saturday, November 16:
Health & Fitness Expo
        Noon to  9 p.m., Friday,
November 15; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, November 16;
       Pennsylvania
Convention Center, 12th and Arch streets, Hall F/ First Floor
 
Saturday, November 16: The Rothman Institute
8K
        7:30 a.m., 22nd
Street & Benjamin Franklin Parkway  near the Philadelphia Museum of
Art
 
Saturday, November 16: Kids Fun Run

        10:30 a.m.,
22nd Street & the Benjamin Franklin Parkway near the
Philadelphia Museum of Art
 
Sunday, November 17: The GORE-TEX® Philadelphia
Marathon and Half Marathon
        Wheelchair and hand cycle
participants begin at 6:57 a.m.; competition for runners begins at 7 a.m.,    22nd
Street & the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, near the Philadelphia Museum of Art

 

ROAD CLOSURES  

Streets will be closed in many parts of the city in connection
with the GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon on the weekend of  November
15-17. Delays can be expected and motorists are advised to use alternate
routes, avoid areas along the race course, allow for extra driving time and to
proceed with extreme caution. Due to increased security, parking and
traffic regulations will be strictly enforced.  


 

Some of the
major areas impacted include:
·         The Benjamin
Franklin Parkway on Friday, November 15
through Sunday, November 17
·         Citywide along the
26.2-mile route of the Philadelphia Marathon on Sunday, November 17
·         The I-676
off-ramps at 22nd Street (westbound) and 23rd Street (eastbound) will be closed
on Sunday, November 17 at 3 a.m.
for security preparation.

Due to enhanced security, City “no-parking”
regulations will be enforced strictly and all vehicles along the race course
will be towed, beginning at 3 a.m. on Sunday, November 17. Signage labeled
“no parking” will be posted in the Parkway area and elsewhere along
the race course in advance.

Here is a
complete list of GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon Weekend street closures in
the immediate area of the race start and finish area on the Benjamin Franklin
Parkway and citywide.  http://philadelphiamarathon.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Marathon-streets-closures-release-20131.pdf.  

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Runners,
spectators, Parkway cultural institution patrons and those with business or
recreational plans are encouraged to use public transportation to get in and
out of Center City during marathon weekend. SEPTA
will operate under normal weekend schedules citywide. However, bus routes will
be detoured during Philadelphia Marathon Weekend. Runners, Parkway cultural
institution patrons and others with business or recreational plans in areas
affected by road closures and bus detours are urged to use SEPTA’s rail
transportation including the Broad Street Line subway, the Market-Frankford
Line subway/elevated, trolley routes and Regional Rail lines. Regular SEPTA
fares will apply for these trips .For updates and information about public transit
in the Philadelphia and New Jersey areas, including various public
transit options, visit http://www.septa.org/  and www.njtransit.org;
 or
contact SEPTA customer service, 215-580-7800.

The bus detours are in effect for Saturday’s activities,
from 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Sunday, from 3 a.m. through early evening

Here is complete information about bus detours, rider options
for alternative services and related public-transit information to accommodate
road closures during the GORE-TEX®
Philadelphia Marathon Weekend http://philadelphiamarathon.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Marathon-public-transit-info.-20132.pdf
. Also visit SEPTA’s website at: http://www.septa.org/events/philadelphia-marathon.html.  

In addition, please refer to the System Status feature on the
SEPTA website at http://www.septa.org/realtime/status/system-status.shtml
for more information and real-time updates on detours. Also, real-time updates,
schedules and more information are available on the new official SEPTA App for
iPhone. For more information on the SEPTA App for iPhone, visit http://www.septa.org/service/septa-app.html,
or download it at the App Store.

PHLASH TROLLEY
Be advised that the Philadelphia PHLASH trolley is not in
operation during winter months and will not be operating during
Philadelphia Marathon weekend. When in operation, the PHLASH trolley offers
transportation to many popular attractions in Center City
and other areas citywide.

PARKING INFORMATION

Center
City
— the start and finish location of the marathon — is compact and walkable. On
Marathon weekend, runners and spectators are
encouraged to walk to the Benjamin
Franklin Parkway or use public transportation,
particularly on Sunday, November 17. No on-street parking is permitted along
the Benjamin Franklin Parkway,
starting Saturday, November 16. Paid parking lots and garages conveniently are
located on or near the Parkway. Please call ahead for rates (which begin at $8)
and availability, or visit the
Philadelphia Parking Authority website at http://philapark.org/.
                     
             

Here is a sampling of parking options on or
near the Benjamin Franklin Parkway:

GARAGES
        21st Street and Benjamin Franklin
Parkway, Standard Parking, (215) 448-1391
        1815 Cherry Street (Logan Square),
LAZ Parking, (215) 496-1070
        16th and Race streets, (Sheraton
Hotel), Standard Parking, (215) 496-0293
        1900 and 1901 JFK Blvd., Central
System Parking, (215) 564-3707 and 215-557-3721
        1815 JFK Blvd./ Sterling Building,
Patriot Parking, Inc., (215) 405-0790
        1616 Chancellor St., Patriot
Parking, $20, (215) 735-0834
        2040 Market St. (20th
and Market streets), Patriot Parking Inc., (215) 563-1059
        2102 Sansom St., Patriot Parking,
(215) 599-3000 / 215-772-1511
        1700 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, The
Windsor Suites, 215-569-0899

PARKING LOTS
        151 N. 23rd St. (23rd
and Cherry streets), Patriot
Parking, Inc., (215) 772-1511
        1919 Arch St., Central Parking
System,(215) 568-2755
        22nd and Walden streets, Central
Parking System/Standard Parking, (215) 563-3650
        19th and Callowhill streets,
Philadelphia Parking Authority, (215) 683-9813
        18th and Vine streets, Parkway
Corporation, (215) 575-4000
 
      23rd and Arch streets, Central Parking System, (215)
563-3650
 
      100 N. 19th St. (19th and Arch streets),
Patriot Parking, Inc., (215)
772-1511

The GORE-TEX® Philadelphia
Marathon is not affiliated with any of these
parking facilities. Some lots have an automated teller unit, upon exiting.

CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS
 

The cultural institutions along or near the Benjamin Franklin Parkway will experience
the greatest impact of the race.
Most of the cultural institutions in the Parkway area will be
open, maintaining regularly- scheduled hours of operation during marathon
weekend. These institutions include: Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel
University, Barnes Foundation, Fairmount Water Works, The Franklin Institute,
Free Library of Philadelphia / Parkway
Central Library, The Galleries at Moore College of Art and
Design, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Philadelphia Museum of Art and
the Perelman Building Annex, Rodin Museum and Eastern State Penitentiary.

Parking is available at or near the cultural institutions, but
using public transportation is strongly encouraged. However, parking (including
metered parking) is not permitted directly on the Parkway on Saturday, November
16 and Sunday, November 17. For additional information regarding current
exhibitions, ticketing, parking accommodations and links to Parkway-area
attractions, visit www.parkwaymuseumsdistrict.org,
or consult the
institutions’ individual websites. For extended
information, visit http://philadelphiamarathon.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Marathon-cultural-museums-Parkway-info.-20131.pdf.

MARATHON VENUE DETAILS

Spectators, motorists, runners, patrons of the cultural institutions
and all visitors to the Parkway district are urged to proceed with caution,
arrive promptly and expect delays.  

SECURITY
On Sunday, November 17, there will be enhanced public safety
efforts designed in partnership with the City of Philadelphia add the
Philadelphia Police Department to ensure the enjoyment and safety of everyone
at the race. Runners and attendees may experience delays upon entering the
starting area, and authorities urge patience.

The race Start/Finish areas, spanning the entire width of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway,
from 20th and 25th streets, will be a Secure Zone.
Checkpoints have been established for those entering the starting area and ALL
visitors and runners will be screened in order to enter the Start/Finish area.
 All items are subject to inspection and re-inspection at entry and beyond
that point.

Allow time for possessions to be thoroughly searched by
security detail at checkpoints along the Parkway perimeter. It is strongly
recommended that spectators and runners limit what they take into the race
area, bringing only essentials (no bags).

ENTRY GUIDELINES:

        Runners should arrive by 5 a.m. for
entry to the start-finish line areas.
        Runners should plan ahead, allowing
time to get through designated entry checkpoints.
        The start of the race will not be delayed due to lines at
security checkpoints.
        Runners should have their race bibs
fastened and visible on the front of their jerseys at arrival.
        Spectators are strongly discouraged
from carrying bags.
        Only clear bags will be allowed
within the race areas, which will be subject to inspection.
        Only clear plastic Marathon-issued
bags will be accepted at the runners’ Gear Check.
        Runners should arrive with the
event-issued gear check tag (top of bib tear-off strip) affixed to their bags.

        No backpacks or satchels of any
kind will be allowed (exceptions may be made for diaper bags, after a search).

        Small personal-item or hydration
packs/bags/belts are permitted but subject to a search.
        Factory-sealed, plastic water
bottles (1 per person – up to 1 liter) permitted.
        No coolers.
        All items deemed dangerous or
inappropriate will be confiscated or denied access at the sole discretion of
security personnel.

Attendees are encouraged to visit www.philadelphiamarathon.com for information on items
that are permitted at the venue, as well as other pertinent event information.
 

WEATHER ALERTS
The GORE-TEX Philadelphia Marathon is a rain-or-shine event;
however in the case of severe weather or other occurrences, information will be
available. Sign up at www.readynotifypa.org
for text or email alerts, or text PHILA to 411911 to sign up. Plan a safe
informed race weekend, and sign up today.  

The GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon Weekend attracts
more than 3,000 volunteers, 30,000 runners and 60,000 spectators to Philadelphia to
experience “20 Years, For the Love of Running”.  Race Weekend
features the GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon and Half Marathon on Sunday,
November 17; the Rothman Institute 8K and Kids Fun Run on Saturday, November
16; and a free two-day Health & Fitness Expo Friday, November 15 and
Saturday, November 16. Race participants pass many of Philadelphia’s
famous attractions on the swift and scenic USATF-certified course, which is a Boston qualifier. Take
the first step to experiencing 26.2 miles of fun, beauty, history and
excitement by visiting www.philadelphiamarathon.com. Be sure to connect with
us on Facebook (facebook.com/philadelphiamarathon),
Twitter (@philly_marathon) and Instagram (@philly_marathon) to stay up-to-date
with the latest GORE-TEX® Philadelphia Marathon news.  
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Categories
Philadelphia

Photos: The Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Beer Event

Friday the Philadelphia Museum of Art hosted a beer tasting inside
the Convention Center.  Guests enjoyed Craft Beer as the brewers
intended. Don Russell (aka Joe
Sixpack), Executive Director of Philly Beer Week and Daily News
columnist, curated a collection of local and Lithuanian brews that
cannot be found together anywhere in the city. Guests met the brewers,
sampled their beer and learned some of the trade secrets
that go into brewing one-of-a-kind brews.

•   Neshaminy Creek Brewing Co. (neshaminycreekbrewing.com) – gold medalist at Great American Beer Festival.

•   Free Will Brewing Co. (freewillbrewing.com)- Brilliant young beer stylists with new creations.

•   Barren Hill Tavern & Brewery (www.facebook.com/barrenhillbeer) – Get your first taste from the region’s newest brewpub.

•   Home Sweet Homebrew (homesweethomebrew.com)- Recreating traditional Lithuanian “country” beer.

•   Biržų Alus (www.birzualus.lt/) – Unfiltered craft beer from the Lithuania’s beer capital.

 Danielle Travitz, Steve Lombardell and Laura Salciunas
 Marisa DiNatale and Bob Wachob
 
 Young Friends of the Philadelphia Art Museum Members Kristy Webb and
Jackie Cassidy at the 37th Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art
Contemporary Craft Show featuring a Craft Beer Tasting Party at the
Pennsylvania Convention Center on November 8, 2013.

 Don “Joe Sixpack” Russell hosted the craft event as Vidmantas Laurinavičius looks on. Vid is Lithuania’s Joe Sixpack.

 Joe Sixpack and Rob Jahn, Neshaminy Creek Brewing Co.
Co-owner of Free Will Brewing Company, Dave Wood

 Mike Beck, Graham Fuller, Ann Fuller and John Fuller
 Carla Vogol and Julie Lisa
 
Aldona Vainus and Krista Bard, Honorary Consul of Lithuania in
Philadelphia at the 37th Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary
Craft Show featuring a Craft Beer Tasting Party at the Pennsylvania
Convention Center on November 8, 2013. 
Some of the photos from this event will appear in the Liberty City Press newspaper next week as well as on their website HERE.
Categories
Philadelphia

Wanna Grab A Bite with Bradley Cooper? Plus Richard Gere, Dakota Fanning and Theo James.

You might have heard Rydal native, superstar actor Bradley Cooper was in town this weekend. (Thanks to LOL and Q102 for the initial tips.)

He attended his alma mater Germantown Academy’s 20th Year High School Reunion. On Friday he stopped by the school and attended the pep rally. Then headed to the reunion at MaGerks Pub & Grill in Ft Washington. Saturday, wearing an Eagles hat, sunglasses to cover his baby blues, and a blue coat, he went to the Germantown Academy football game where GA beat Penn Charter for the first time in 14 years, 42-35. When asked for autographs, or photos, he said I’m just an alumni this weekend, but thanks.

Saturday afternoon he grabbed a bite at West Ave Grille and posed for a photo with the owner.
If you want to grab a bite with Bradley Cooper, head on over to The Palm restaurant at the Bellevue as they just finished his caricature which is surrounded by other Philadelphia notables, as well as regular diners at the Palm (and by regular you have to trade in 30,000 Palm points to get your portrait on the wall.) When approached earlier this year to do his portrait, Cooper said he’d like to have his father, Charles J. Cooper (died 2011, age 71) in in the portrait with him. So the Palm portrait artist created this touching father/son scene where they’re at a Phillies game, sitting in the dugout.  The caricature is located near the entrance of the restaurant.
Last nite Katie, Kristin, Marilyn, Christie and I stopped by the Palm for a bite to eat and a possible Bradley sighting. He hasn’t been in yet to see his portrait. Maybe today. That’s me on the wall. 
 

 Speaking of the Bellevue, if you are in and around the famed shopping center/hotel today, you might get a star sighting. The Richard Gere movie, which has been filming in our area for the past few weeks, is filming a big charity event in the ballroom there today with Dakota Fanning and Theo James. Last Monday they were at the NJ Acquirium, then on Tuesday at the top of the Art Museum Steps (see photo above), then Wednesday through Friday night.

They filmed on Spruce Street between 17th and 20th Streets. Even though it was chilly out, a small crowd watched the activity into the midnight hour. If you were following me on twitter @Iphillychitchat, I was giving a play by play. Thursday night Gere had Denver Sole at D’Angelo’s for dinner.
 I haven’t had much time to go out to the set, but I want to thank all my many tipsters that have been so generous to me. It allows me to give tips to a few of my fav fanfriends (they’re usually college kids who have much more time on their hands to meet celebs.) Here Ian, and not pictured, Brooke, got to meet Dakota Fanning. They only had to wait about 3 hrs for her to return to finish filming and exit 1910 Spruce Street. They told me she was really sweet.
 Also thanks to my friend at the Ambassador Apartments that sent me this photo of Theo James from a weeks ago. Franny filmed a scene there Friday 10/25, I was planning to go that day to cover the shoot, but it was the day after the infamous car drives down art museum steps day. Ironically, I had just checked the street signs on 10/24 about the closures, before heading home for that video viral moment. Later this week Franny heads to a bowling alley and then to Blur nightclub, where I hear Theo and the eccentric Franny have a boys night out.