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Philadelphia

Zee Bar is celebrating its fifth year with crazy party, 5 DJ’s, Open Bar – This is your invite, just RSVP * 5/12/11

Zee Bar is celebrating its fifth year as Philadelphia’s premierclub on Thursday, May 12th 2011 beginning at 10pm with a one-hour VIP preview and select open
bar, sponsored by Grey Goose. Known for its unmatched propensity for hosting breath-taking
events with unforgettable indulgence and commemoration, Zee Bar knows no bounds; this year’s DJ line-up is unprecedented. Guests will be seduced by the sounds of five of the nation’s most revered DJs hailing from Miami, NYC, Las Vegas, DC and Philadelphia.
DJ Konflikt, known for his Sirius XM show and residencies at Louis, Set, and Mansion, is the
reigning king of South Beach, sure to be a crowd pleaser by adding globally-inspired masterpieces to the evening. New York City’s best-kept secret from the Hamptons to the couture runway, Claudius Raphael aka DJ Serious, is one of the most sought after DJ’s in NYC nightlife, notorious for flawlessly flaunting his unique sound – a cross between DowntownHipster and House music.

  • 51FIFTY , hot off the Las Vegas Strip, is comprised of DJ Presto One, of the famous Rock

  • Steady Crew, and drummer Dustin J. This dynamic drummer/DJ combo has been dubbed as

  • “THE HOTTEST SINCE DJ AM-TRVS”. Madonna’s onstage DJ, production guru, and all-around

  • Washington, DC wonder, DJ Enferno, will be igniting the dance floor with his much-lauded Live

  • Remix Project. Completing this star-studded roster is Philadelphia’s own Josh Wink – creator of

multiple renowned albums under Ovum Records; a true pioneer of techno, house, and allied styles of music. Never understated, Zee Bar will entertain invited guests, including local celebrities and Philadelphia notables alike. Zee Bar’ s beauties, professionally styled, courtesy of Travis Walters along with Suzie Celeck and Julie Dorenbos of Skin Palete, will be available for European bottle RSVP’s are mandatory at zee5rsvp@silenciallc.com. Dress is upscale and fashionable, as always.

To view the invitation, go to http://www.heyphilly.com/zeebar. For additional event information simply
contact Buffy Morgan, Director of Marketing at buffy@zee-bar.com

(Sponsored Advertisement)

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Philadelphia

Party in the Garden (Formerly the Azalea Garden Party) was a blooming success

Every year when the Horticultural’s Flower Show rolls around in February, in our hearts and minds we say that it’s the kick off to spring, and then a few short weeks later & after a little more snow, it is Spring and time for the Pennsylvania Horticultural’s Annual Party in The Garden.

Drew Becher, Pennsylvania Horticultural Society President and Kate Wilhelm, Senior Vice President of Business Development at the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society greet the guests as they enter The Garden Party. For the first time ever the Party was held in the garden and it was breathtaking beautiful with it’s see through tent, which was a good idea since it had rained all day.
as the party time approached the Skies seem to clear just in time. I always look at this event as the key kick off Garden Parties for the ones like the Radnor Hunt on May 21 and like the Devon Horse Show May 26.
Adam Lambert, Beth Lambert and Noah Stein
Michael Ford and his cute baby surrounded by the beauty of the room
Where Magazine editor, Kristina Jenkins, with Where Magazine alumni Will Klein concierge Sofitel, and Laura Burkhardt. Laura has recently accepted a job with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society as Director of Business Development. “So excited to work with this esteemed organization and the amazing team there!” Two beautiful things in Philadelphia, Laura and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. XOXO
The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1827. Under the leadership of Drew Becher, PHS provides great events, activities, and publications for novice gardeners, experienced horticulturists, and flower lovers of all ages. Our Mission: The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society motivates people to improve the quality of life and create a sense of community through horticulture. Allyson, Kris Paulet-Northeimen and Kathryn

Derek Freres and Alex Balloon

Barbara Chance was spotted with a pretty Iris outfit
Drew Becher greets Middy Dorrance, Tim Boyle and Jennifer Sheppard
Deputy mayor Alan Greenberger was on hand
The park was in full bloom beautiful
David Elliott and Bradley Richards
Royce Yeager and Britt Miller. Check out Britt’s paintings which were just hung at at newest restaurant in Philly, the 1518 Bar & Grill.Christine Madden and Jen McGowan. No doubt one of the best things about the garden party is the hat and the bright color outfits. You know how I like the ladies stylin’ a little color.
Kathryn Ott Lovell, Executive Director of Fairmount Park Conservancy and Jeanette Arthur, Development Associate Fairmount Park Conservancy. The 2011 Centennial Celebration will be held on Tuesday, May 17th at The Horticulture Center in the Centennial District of West Fairmount Park.
Every year there are horse drawn carriages that take you in and around the garden
I left as the party was still in full swing to head over to the Jewish National Fund which was holding it’s annual poker night at Del Frisco’s.

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Philadelphia

The BUZZ: Cole & Heidi Hamels – Shania Twain – Jen Carroll – Julie Dorenbos & Susie Celek – Blondell Reynolds Brown – DeSean Jackson

PhillyChiChat The Buzz:

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend, and you spoke with your mother either in person, on the phone or through prayer.
This week the weather looks fantastic. If you have time stop by the Azeala Garden on Kelly Drive behind the Art Museum, it is gorgeous and at the height of bloom.
John Legend performed at the Steppingstone Scholars Gala on the steps of the Art Museum. The intimate setting was under a large tent with a beautiful view of the spring skyline of Philadelphia. – Happy 1 year anniversary Picture Philly, who took the above shot of the evening. Everyday Picture Philly posts a photo of Philly that you’ll want to see.
Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels, along with wife Heidi traveled to Kennett High School in Kennett Square last week to thank the Kennett community for its efforts and generosity with respect to “Kennett Pitches In for The Hamels Foundation”,a community project that raised money to help the Foundation build a school for youth orphaned by the HIV/AIDS virus in Malawi, East Africa.
Cole and Heidi Hamels with Julia Baumel, a Kennett High School freshman, created the “Kennett Pitches In” project which has successfully raised $10,000 from the kids and families in the Kennett community, enough to build a named classroom (the “Kennett Classroom”) in the Malawi school funded by the Hamels Foundation. You can help support the foundation by donating directly to their website here, or by attending a dodge-ball fundraiser 5/21/11. (Photos Hamels Foundation)
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Last week I attended a Blondell Reynolds-Brown’s campaign party at the Ritz-Residences. Blondell is flanked by KB Consultants President Kelly Boyd, and Karen A. Lewis Executive Director of the Avenue of the Arts.
Also at the party Frank DiCicco, Paul Smith, and above Carol Tamburino, Sabrina Tamburino-Thorne, Philadelphia City Councilman-at-Large James F. Kenney and Dana Spain.
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Friday night I headed to the Ritz-Carlton where Perrier-Jouet Champagne was hosting a special cocktail party with Top Chef Jennifer Carroll and her Canapé. On left: Herve Deschamps cellar master of PerrierJouët, Pierre-Aymeric Du Cray, Perrier-Jouet Global Sales Director and Brad Waxman, Southern Wine and Spirits. Perrier-Jouët is a Champagne producer based in the Épernay region of Champagne, France.
10 Arts Chef Jennifer Carroll and Susan Gay of the Mainline enjoy the evening. As we chatted at the Champagne party Frankie Avalon and his family were enjoying the evening on the other side of the lounge. The next day I heard that Shania Twain was spotted admiring the dome ceiling above the room before heading out to her book signing “From This Moment On” in Chester. At about the same time a whole bunch of Flyers were celebrating the end of the season at the new Tweed Brunch disco hosted by Ryan Dorsey. I got a bunch of tips on the sighting, but I was getting my tan on at a local flea market which I will be writing about later this week. i brake for flea markets. Back to my Friday Night Out
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After the Perrier-Jouet Champagne I headed to Phila Eagles Brent Celek and Todd Herreman’s bar 879 near Front and Chestnut Street to see my buds Julie Dorenbos and Susie Celek honored by Kisses for Kyle also honored Joe Gaglioti, Joseph Anthony Retreat Spa and Salon.
Also hanging out ABC6’s Jamie Apody and Paul Coleman who are getting married two months from today. Last fall I wrote about how they met in my PhillyMag.com column.
I knew that both Julie & Susie loved Krispy Kremes and couldn’t make it to the opening as they are busy busy getting their spray tan salon, Skin Palette ready for the opening on June 1, so I brought them a dozen. It was so worth it to work through the crowded bar to see the thrill on their faces. Above Julie getting an assist by husband Philadelphia Eagles long snapper Jon Dorenbos.
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Around 10PM I got a call to join the Keren Ini Bacherlorette Party full on at D’Angelo’s in Rittenhouse Square. Before I headed for my car I stopped into the corner cafe next to where my car was parked, Sphinx Cafe, a middle Eastern cafe (Saturday nights 10PM they have belly dancing.) In the cafe I met Felix Thillet and Abutalal who were enjoying their Hookahs. Felix recognized me from NBC’s Non-Stop show The Scene, and well it’s a good thing cause when I turned to chat with him I saw a mean ass PPA tow truck back up and try and tow my car. Who knew after 10PM the 100 block of Chestnut Street turns into a tow away zone. WTF. That is just crazy. I ran out in between our two vehicles leaving my camera in the cafe. The tow truck driver wouldn’t let me go in and get it or he was going to tow me he said. Thankfully the owner of the cafe came out and gave me my order and camera. I can’t believe what a money trap that is to tow unsuspecting drivers. The signs that are marked are about 3×4 inches at the very top of the post. #FAIL and now I have a $76 ticket given at 10:06PM, probably while I was in the cafe.
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OK then I went to D’Angelo’s, which is a great Italian restaurant owned by Sal D’Angelo and as the diners leave the dance floor opens up to small groups of locals and people who discover the gem, where the John Travolta’s all the way to the Elaine’s from Seinfeld take over the floor and no one thinks any different. Keren Ini celebrates her upcoming wedding with friends, at the end of the month. Then I went to Paradiso Restaurant and Wine Bar, 1627 E. Passyunk Ave. Spent the rest of the night chatting with owners Lynn and Cary, celebrating Laura Burkhardt’s new job with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.
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This Friday 13th no bad luck will occur at the Waterworks as DeSean Jackson hosts his Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Annual Gala. DeSean Jackson’s father, Bill, succumbed to pancreatic cancer on May 14, 2009 and DeSean started the Foundation in his honor. Just 2 weeks ago on Easter a good friend of mine told me he had stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer. So this cause is very near and dear to my heart too.

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Philadelphia

Nikki Sixx Fan Warm Hearted Story….

Yesterday I wrote about the Meister family from Pocono, Pa, Shawn, Lori, Jessica & T.J. Meister who were waiting in line at Barnes & Noble to get a guitar signed by Nikki Sixx. The folks at B&N said they wouldn’t allow the guitar to get signed as Sixx was only signing books. They wanted to get the instrument signed for their son Andrew who was being deployed to Afghanistan shortly.
Mr Meister writes me “We Finally made it in to meet Nikki Sixx and yes he did sign the bass for my son Andrew Meister who is currently driving the M1-A1 Abrams Tank & the new Stryker armored personnel carrier.
He is in Fort Benning, GA. And awaiting his orders for Afghanistan.

Nikki was very gracious and remembered us from the last time he was in town signing his Heroin Diaries book.
He remembered my son because last time he didn’t ask for anything to be signed, he just wanted to shake his idols hand, from one bass player to another.

Nikki and his entire crew also said to tell Andrew thank you for what he is doing and for serving our great nation.” – What a nice ending. Thank you Andrew, God Speed. Happy Mother’s Day Jessica, and thanks everyone for this story.

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Philadelphia

WHAT’S GOING ON IN PHILLY: NEW PARKING GARAGE, UPCOMING EVENTS & CONVENTION CENTER NEWS

An Evening in Franklin Square Thursday May 19, 2011 Above: Gov Ed Rendell, President and CEO. Amy Needle Historic Philadelphia, Inc and Chairman. Wayne S. Spilove Chairman, Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.

Last year you’ll recall was the First Annual Governor’s Cup honoring the 2010 Gov Ed Rendell. There was much speculation that if Tom Corbett won the Governor’s race would he come to the Franklin Square Gala and participate in the event, well I’m here to tell you he won, but he won’t be coming to the Franklin Square Gala which is a real shame since it’s such a fun event in one of the most entertaining squares in the City. I think going forward we should just call it the Gov Ed Rendell Cup as I know that Ed will show up because he knows the vital role Franklin Square plays in our community, and well he’s knows a good time is to be had.
Corbett remains Honorary Chair along with Mayor Michael Nutter, who will probably show up. Chair for the evening is Randy Chapman. The Governor’s Cup starts at 4:30PM and is a separate ticket at $150, and the gala ticket is $150. 5:30PM Cocktails, and 7PM Dinner. It’s always a fun time with lots of political faces as well as the folks who make things happen in the City. Great auction items too. Presenting sponsor is one of my advertisers PARX Casino. Tickets for the evenings events can be purchased here For further information, call (215) 629-5801 or email donation@historicphiladelphia.org

Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau BRIGHT SPOTS:

Well the biggest event happening in Philadelphia is the Expanded Pennsylvania Convention Center is now open, and is booking up quickly. Now that it is open lots happening in the surrounding area including the building of a brand new parking garage across the street. I wish with the added lot the price of parking would go down in the area, but I don’t think that is the case. A new 10 level parking garage with retail on the bottom floor is set to be built right across from the newly expanded Convention Center on Arch Street near Broad.

May 7 is going to be a very busy day here in Philly as two big conventions will overlap on this day. The Delaware Valley Association for the Education of Young Children’s Annual Conference (DVAEYC) with it’s estimated 3,000 attendees ending it’s stay on Saturday and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) 91st Annual Meeting brings nearly 5,000 attendees on May 7 to begin a five day stay. The best part, our hotels are going to be packed.

On May 10 at 9:30 AM, Mayor Nutter will be joined at Love Park by Ben Franklin and hundreds of hospitality industry workers to encourage people to open a door for someone else, offer to take a picture for a visitor in front of a Philadelphia landmark, or give directions to someone who looks lost.

From May 15-19, LIGHTFAIR INTERNATIONAL will hold its annual convention and tradeshow at the newly expanded Pennsylvania Convention Center

In less than two weeks, LIGHTFAIR International (LFI), the world’s largest annual architectural and commercial lighting trade show and conference, will swing open the doors to welcome the 2011 attendees in this year’s location in the newly expanded Pennsylvania Convention Center. With consistent record-breaking shows over the last five years, LFI is poised for the largest trade show and conference in its history and the debut of more innovation this year in Philadelphia.
Yesterday I ran into Susie Celek and her friend Allyson Burke who were out and about celebrating Cinco de Mayo. Tonight Susie and Julie Dorenbos along with Joe Gaglioti will be honored by Kisses for Kyle (remember I mentioned them yesterday as the children’s cancer charity organization that is working with Krispy Kreme doughnuts on a project.), well tonight at 879 Lounge (110 Chestnut), Celek, wife of Eagles tight end Brent Celek, who’s a partner in the bar along with teammate Todd Herremans, will be recognized along with Julie Dorenbos, wife of Eagles long-snapper Jon Dorenbos, and hairstylist Joe Gaglioti, Joseph Anthony Retreat and Spa for their service to children.
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Last night at the Grand Opening Party for Hugo Boss at their new location in the Cherry Hill Mall Flyers right wing Ian Laperriere, former Philadelphia Eagles greats Mike Quick, Vince Papale, Ron Jaworski were on hand to celebrate.

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Philadelphia

NIKKI SIXX PHILLY’S BARNES & NOBLE Signing and his Motley Crue fans come out in droves

osted by WMMR’s Jacky Bam Bam hosted Nikki Sixx of Motley Crue and his new book at a signing at Barnes & Noble last night. “This is Gonna Hurt”
About the book: Music, Photography and Life Through The Distorted Lens Of Nikki Sixx, a follow up to his New York Times bestseller, The Heroin Diaries. Just about 750 fans line up to see Nikki, short of the 2,000 he signed for earlier this week in DC.
Nikki was last in town about 4 years ago in 2007. It was then that I really learned about who he was as a celebrity, rocker, role model and how devoted fans his fans are, the Motley Crue as you will see. Sometimes a person might judge a rocker fan with tats, tattered clothing, cursing like a sailor, and long hair, but get beyond the fashion armor and you’ll discover we all need a little love, and desire to be accepted and connected as we are; Nikki fans make up several generations and I found moms, dads and kids in line waiting for hours for a chance to meet Sixx. Rock fans (especially Nikki Sixx) seem to be very genuine, p[passionate and friendly; I would never pass up an opportunity to cover his signings and get a chance to meet the Motley Crew that flocked out in devotion to see him. Many folks were dressed in their favorite concert t shirts and told me the stories of each event, a few were in suits, scrubs, but most were dressed in my choice of clothing all black. Although many came from the tri-state area, I did hear stories of a women who flew in from Iowa, and met more than that who drove down from Albany, up from DC and over from Ohio.
Sugar Free, Yvonne Cuslen aka Vonnie C, Melanie Cunningham with Officer Strange. Wendy Stumpf made espresso brownies and brought Finger Lakes Coffee Roasters Jamaican Me Crazy coffee…from Rochester NY for Nikki Sixx. OK I’m awake.
Debbie & Ally Rivera brought “XS” Energy Drinks for him,
Pretty in Pink – Stylin’ with that hat. Adorable
Hello. Many of these fans arrived early in the morning to pick up their wrist bands.
but there’s a whole crew inside the building in group “A” that arrived the night before. Their reward, they got to hang during the day inside the building.
These fans, and by that I mean a lot of them follow Nikki Stixx from city to city on his tour. Many folks said they follow the band too. They’re like the Grateful Dead fans of years gone by, although there seemed to be a lot less pot smoking in their crowd, and by that I mean none at all. – Lori Mudrick, on left, drove in from Alliance, Ohio as this was the closest if come to hear. She plans the works at 6Am back in Ohio, and she tells me she’s going to make it.
Rock
On


Shawn, Lari, Jessica and TJ traveled down from Pocono, Pa to meet Nikki. They brought son Andrew’s guitar to see if they could get it signed. Andrew couldn’t come cause he is in boot camp preparing to be deployed to Afghanistan. They were hoping that the good folks at B&N would not confiscate it and hold it like they said they would as Nikki was only signing his book. All the fans know that is not the case, Nikki signs whatever you put in front of him. I tried to locate his publicist, but it was too chaotic when Sixx came in. i do hope they were able to get it signed.

Fun scarf. So many generations love Motley Crue.

Crystal Snider and Dean Pierce. He’s a Nikki fan, but is also getting a graph for his sister who couldn’t make it.
Jimmi Shrode

Jenny Penny was bringing him a dozen black roses.


A few Cheerleaders
Can you guess which person is not a Nikki Sixx fan per se, but does love a good photo with a celebrity. He paid $100 bucks to switch places with someone in the front of the line just to get a pix with Nikki. It must have been somewhat odd for Sixx since the guy didn’t have any books to sign, and well the rules were you don’t get a picture with only a picture of, but I saw it and he quickly got the shot he wanted of him and a celeb.

First in line, this crew got to B&N the day before a little before the witching hour of Midnite. Anthony Prestianni, Millvile, Stacie Ortiz, Heather Camp, Morgan Heino, Philadelphia, Paula Lytle, Middletown, Samantha Hunt Grantville, Rosette Watts and Jessica Cole both of Elmira NY, Jodi White, from near a town near Buffalo, NY
Reunion: 4 years ago when Nikki Sixx was in town to promote the Heroin book I met this girl and told her story on my blog that proceeded this one, “Confessions of a Paparazzi”
She had 90 days sober and at the signing gave Nikki her 30 day sober coin. It was touching and I send her a dozen or so photos of the event. Here she was 4 years sober later with the photos that I had sent her and now she was going to get them signed. So sweet. We had a little public AA meeting right then and there chatting about the gifts of sobriety. I get to write mine each and every day right here on PhillyChitChat.com, thanks for your support. So wonderful to re-connect with her and meet her sister too. XOXO

Looking good

Unlike last time, Nikki Sixx wanted intimate times with his fans and asked the photogs to leave. I can relate, he’s a great guy and really has a special relationship with his fans and they probably tell him lots of personal things.
He shook all the photographers hands and thanked them for coming. I got to tell him I was going to celebrate my 20th year sober this year and he grin widely and congratulated moi!

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Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Soul Practices for their Upcoming Game in the Middle of Market Street, makes sense eh?

The Philadelphia Soul held a practice session on Market Street in Center City Philly today. Mayor Michael Nutter and former Governor Ed Rendell attended.I thought becoming a full time blogger would have allowed me to go out and cover whatever whenever, but darn I have responsibilities and I couldn’t make it. But thanks to Daniel Morroni, CEO at Morroni custom clothing for the use of these photos.
The team will be shutting down the 16th and 17th block of Market Street in Center City on Thursday, May 5 from noon to 1 p.m. to hold the first ever professional sports team practice on the streets of Philadelphia. The ‘walkthrough’ practice was opened to the public and will be the last practice prior to the Soul’s home game against the Jacksonville Sharks on Friday, May 6 at the Wells Fargo Center, with kickoff at 7:05 p.m. (EST).
Head coach MIKE HOHENSEE and entire coaching staff; Mayor of Philadelphia MICHAEL NUTTER; Former Governor of Pennsylvania ED RENDELL; Co-Majority Owner RON JAWORSKI; Co-Majority Owner CRAIG A. SPENCER; Member of the Ownership Group, PETE CIARROCCHI; Member of the Ownership Group, COSMO DeNICOLA; 2011 Soulmates; VINNIE THE CRUMB; Mascot, SoulMan.

Two years ago The Soul won their ” 2008 Arena Bowl Championship” and had an awesome a parade on Market Street. I was there and here are those snaps.

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Philadelphia

BILLY PAUL, Gamble & Huff & The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia Concert

The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia Lifetime Achievement Award Gala Honoring Music Icons Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff SPECIAL GUEST ARTIST BILLY PAUL JUST CONFIRMED CHAMBER ORCHESTRA TO PERFORM CLASSICAL VERSIONS OF GAMBLE & HUFF HITS
Since it’s Cinco de Maya I’m posting the Spanish subtitled version of the great song.
WHAT: The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, a founding resident company of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, presents its Lifetime Achievement Award Gala in honor of Philadelphia music legends Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff. The Gala will kick off with cocktails and a three-course dinner, followed by the award ceremony and an evening of dancing and live music. In a special presentation for Mr. Gamble and Mr. Huff, Chamber Orchestra Music Director Dirk Brossé will direct members of the Orchestra in classical orchestrations of Gamble & Huff songs. Silent and live auctions will also take place, featuring travel opportunities, sports and music memorabilia, concert tickets and more. The event is black tie. WHO: The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, with Gala honorees Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff, and Gala Chairman The Honorable Edward G. Rendell. Grammy Award winner Billy Paul and the TSOP Band led by Emmy Award winner Bill Jolly have been confirmed to help celebrate the award. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Billy Paul has released over ten albums with Mr. Gamble and Mr. Huff’s record label, Philadelphia International Records. Mr. Paul won a Grammy for his #1 hit written by Mr. Gamble and Mr. Huff, Me and Mrs. Jones, which he will perform at the Gala. WHEN: Saturday, May 21, 2011 · 6 p.m.
WHERE:
The Westin Philadelphia · 99 South 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103

WHY: To honor the groundbreaking song writing and production team of Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff and their accomplishments, which include the 40th anniversary of Philadelphia International Records, the duo’s numerous #1 soul and R&B hits as well as their service to the community.
HOW TO RSVP: Individual tickets and full-table sponsorships are available until May 13. Please visit www.chamberorchestra.org/gala or call 215.545.5451 x29 for more information.

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Philadelphia

Amber-Joi Watkins Miss Pennsylvania USA 2011 Send Off Party at R2L

Last Call Promotions invited me to the Miss USA Send Off and Fundraiser at R2l For Amber-Joi Watkins Miss Pennsylvania USA 2011Last week. I did ask Amber if The Donald asked her who she was voting for for president next year what would she say? “I haven’t made up my mind yet,” was her answer. Not sure if the Donald would accept that answer, he’s fairly black and gray in his life as I see it. OK well let’s hope that the pageant is based on what the USA Pageant seems to be and that is beauty. Amber-Joi is a shoe in for that. Above she’s with her brother Henry Watkins and BFF Kate Beaver.

Mom Kathleen Watkins tells me she is very proud and excited for Amber-Joi and will be making the trip out to Las Vegas to see her compete in June.
I spotted a few familar faces in the crowd including Shariff, Courtney Grant, Hacina Saadi and David Helfrick. Both Hacina and Courtney can be found at Serafina, as they will be hostessing. Serafina is scheduled to open May 27th just in time for Memorial Day Weekend.

Sean Weatherspoon, Alexis Sophia, Isaiah Mares and Bobby McRae
Miss Teen Pa, Madison Longstreth. Madison is from Spring Grove which is located in southwestern York County, about seven miles southwest of York, PA, Mike Bankus, who is standing next to lady killer Arthur Kade (Madison stay far away from this guy.), and Ed Dale. Vote for your favorite dress and swimsuit for the Miss Teen USA pageant July 16th!!

Justin Rentzel

Chad, Dan Forestor, Barret Vance and Phillip Baldenton
Maris Montague and Glenn A Longstreth
Dustin Kaplan and Maria Axarlli. The night benefited “Students Run Philly”
Also coming up MIDATLANTIC will be taping this year’s first keg of Stoudt’s Ex Gratia, serve a 3 course feast with proceeds from Ex Gratia benetitting Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. $30 dinner, Ex Gratia $10 5/12 6PM reservations 215-386-3711

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Philadelphia

KRISPY KREME OPENING: WHO WAITS IN LINE FOR FREE DOUGHNUTS

Looks like a lot of people as the line snakes down the street and around the corner down Chestnut from the Krispy Kreme Philadelphia store And mind you that only the first 11 people received free donuts for a year.
Others received a cup of coffee that day and up to the 100th person received a TShirt, but they were cool Tshirts and these folks were excited to grab one.
The front of the line: for the majority of the night it was bone dry, but fifteen minutes before the doors were to open there was a downpour and most people were prepared, except for my camera which got soaked.Tyler Altenhufen brought a tent with him and his buddy from Temple, Jeremy Wright. That’s Mia with the umbrella she got there about 9PM. Jennifer Mislinski and Tabitha Fetch brought their pillows but there was no sleep to be had. Although I think they may have made friends with the guys in front of them when the boys weren’t sleeping.
These are the T-Shirt people. They arrived around 5AM
Finally at 6AM the Hot Doughnut light went on and Krispy Kreme PR David Neff, of Neff Associates opened the doors to the delight of all the people especially the ones in front who had gotten there like Ryan Hatt over 12 hours earlier. #2 – #10 were all in place by 11PM. Those folks get a dozen doughnuts every month for a year. Jeremy Wright and Tyler Altenhufen were 6 & 7 in line. These guys brought along a tent and had all the I forgot to ask them if they really drank all that OJ while waiting for 9 hours? The last thing I would want to do waiting in line
Lori Aghazarian and Cheri Tay are very happy with their TShirts. I love that the “O” is missing a bite out of it.
The Lee Family – People in orange shirts are managers.
Mike Barnes, Developmental director for Kisses for Kyle, Sharon Snyder, Sharon is the founder of a charity called “Kisses for Kyle”. The Kisses for Kyle Foundation offers a variety of services to families fighting childhood cancer in the Delaware Valley. Cousins and business partners, Keith Morgan and Brian Zaslow, who also own the Krispy Kreme doughnut store in Fox Chase and plans one in Collingswood, NJ, Braden Young, Sales and Marketing Manger, Jim Rudofker, GM of 16th Street Krispy Kreme.
Co-founder of Geekadelphia Eric Smith stops by to pick up a dozen for his soon to be happy Quirk Books coworkers.
Jazmine Gould and Ryan Hatt leave with their bounty.
When I left at 9:30AM the line had finally eased up to the point where the door could be shut, but at lunch time the doors were wide open again with folks in line. It might just be another place I tweet about where I tell my followers whether there’s a line or not. Currently I do it for the Rocky statue.