Wednesday at Live Casino former Eagles great, Hall of famer, Brian Dawkins hosted a night in Philadelphia about his journey to become one of the best safeties in the NFL. Over a hundred fans turned out for the meet and greet with Dawkins, who also did a Q&A and talked about his recent published book “Blessed By The Best”. Here with Jennifer Sherlock, Jenna Communications
It was a great event for dads and their sons
Sleep doctor to the stars and moi, Dr. Thanuja Hamilton and Nicholas Perugino with the Eagles Cheerleaders
Definitely a memorable night with Brian, who imparted a lot of wisdom on success, building character, surrounding yourself by like minded people.
I’m always striving to do more. Whatever I accomplish, it’s not enough. I don’t get satisfied. – Brian Dawkins
Ultimate Eagles fanShaun Youngand legendary Eagles player Bill Bergey
Everyone who attended received a copy of Dawkins’ new book Blessed By The Best
Hollis Thomas stopped by
Respect is not given, it is earned. – Brian Dawkins
“I want to thank my haters. I want to thank the people that told me through other people that I wouldn’t be where I am today…My haters became by elevators, they helped me out so thank you.” – Brian Dawkins
PS Thanks to GM Larry at Prime Rib for the great service. We had a delicious dinner there with Brian Dawkins, not at the same table, boo, but nearby. I love the atmosphere there as well, sexy, swanky, intimate.
Last week Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square and J. Nunez Gallery present a special happy hour, art reception and influencer mixer on Wednesday, May 4, 2022. After a pause during the pandemic, Sofitel is excited to bring back its monthly, quarterly and annual signature events – including new art installations in the Sofitel lobby. It was a beautiful event, fun to see everyone out and about, enjoying themselves and the highlights on Liberté’s new spring menu. It’s good to see the folks at the Sofitel, Anthony Geistwite, (r) and the team at Sofitel Philadelphia. There’s a lot of plans in the works, as Philly and events bounce back, especially at the Sofitel, not only is it a hotel with a restaurant but it serves Philly as a community advocate. The exhibit is Travel by Colors by artist Dana Salzone (c)
Angela Bauer, the hotel’s general manager “Sofitel Philadelphia is passionate about supporting our local community,” said Angela Bauer, the hotel’s general manager. “We are prouder than ever to celebrate June as Philly Pride Month and fly a giant Philadelphia Pride rainbow flag outside the hotel to publicly show our commitment to inclusiveness.”
No hotel in Philly celebrates Pride with gusto as the Sofitel. The Sofitel in Rittenhouse Square is preparing to expand its annual observance of Pride Month with a lineup of special events. The hotel is also bringing back its Drag Afternoon Tea series each Saturday in June from 2 to 4 p.m. at its restaurant Chez Colette Brasserie. I will definitely be there the first Saturday June 4th, with my pearls on.
Proceeds from the drag series are being donated to the William Way LGBTQ Community Center to support its ongoing programming and services.
On June 4, Brittany Lynn is hosting one of three afternoon teas. Lynn runs Philly Drag Mafia, a drag performance collective featuring nearly 20 artists and performers. Lynn is the creator of Drag Queen Story Time at Philly’s schools, parks, libraries and museums.
On June 4, Brittany Lynn is hosting one of three afternoon teas. Lynn runs Philly Drag Mafia, a drag performance collective featuring nearly 20 artists and performers. Lynn is the creator of Drag Queen Story Time at Philly’s schools, parks, libraries and museums. (Then we can head to the Roots Picnic)
Through June and the rest of the year, Sofitel will donate $1 per each banquet menu item sold that features the William Way Community Center logo to the LGBTQ organization.
Additionally, for every Liberté cocktail sold in the Liberté Lounge during June, Sofitel will donate $1 to William Way. Proceeds raised from the drink special will go toward William Way’s programs for LGBTQ elders, as well as its Trans Resource Center.
HughE Around Town – HAT: Hope you’re all well. I have been super busy, while trying to maintain balance in my life. For May, and going forward I have booked a lot of great events for clients, as well as booking my team mates Talya and Andre, and I have booked time off. Yes, book time off for yourself, and that means from always being on the go go go. I have saved 10 days where I am not shooting for clients, I might go to an event for fun, not shoot, or just do social because the desire to share is always there.
Before we dig in, a reader dropped me a bummer note. Seems Lee Daniels is not filming his new Netflik’s movie “Demon House” in Philly as I wrote and confirmed with GPFO. He’s going to Pittsburgh. What a bummer, he’s not bringing Glenn Close and Mo’Nique to town to film. I imagine it has to do with budget as it is less expensive to film in Pittsburgh if you just need a house that’s haunted and not the beautiful background of a 6th largest City. The film is based on a haunted house in Indiana, so Pennsylvania still wins as far as bringing some $$ in. (Source)
Mike Bowman, President & CEO of the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board and Bryan Buttler, Bryan Buttler Media Relations (wearing one of his hundreds of fashionable glasses)
Monday I headed to the Green Valley Country Club for the 6th annual Travel Rally Valley Forge Tourism which celebrates Montgomery County, Pennsylvania as a premiere tourism destination. Who knew but it is National Travel & Tourism Week this week. People are excited to return to touring, but with these gas prices, probably not too far. It’s going to be a big year for Philly and it’s environs as people venture outside again, and enjoy what our area has to offer.
Thank you sponsors.
During the event, Valley Forge Tourism announced the launch of their first ever Montco Jazz Fest, which will be incorporated in the organization’s second annual Arts Montco Week, September 16-25, 2022. The new festival will feature performances at iconic Montgomery County venues. Also announced was the Valley Forge engagement of THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION SHOW, performing at Washington Memorial Chapel from June 18-26, 2022. The highly-acclaimed, Italian Renaissance-style show has performed at other noted venues, such as the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and Lincoln Center in New York. It was also shared that the Advocates Professional Golf Association Tour will return to Montgomery County in Fall 2022. The return of the prestigious golf tour, which includes 22 premiere locations around the country including Pebble Beach, aligns Montgomery County with other top golf destinations. Cole Smith, Executive Director of the APGA, was present to celebrate the announcement. – I’ll definitely be heading out to some of these events, especially Valley Forge Park. In the past few years I’ve gotten in touch with nature, and the park is beautiful. So much to do there I’ve discovered over the years. For more information on what’s happening in the Valley Forge area, visit valleyforge.org. Thanks for having me.
Last night I headed to the Italian Market to celebrate my friend Rene’s birthday. I met Rene Kobeitri years ago through Geno Vento, and what a treat Rene and his wife Belle are. Full of life, proud and a dreamer with a fulfilled a dream.
Rene and Belle
Moved to the states in 1982 from Cote d’Azur, France; opened a cute cafe at 1172 S 9th St and it’s been a friendly spot for the best hot chocolate, cannoli, cake and friendship every since. Everyone is a friend who walks through the door. It’s a must on your list of things to do.
Last year for Rene’s birthday, and celebration of becoming an USA citizen, Rene set out to build the longest Cheesesteak over 500 feet. This year it was more about celebrating with friends, throwing a big street party and sharing a 100 foot sausage sandwich.
Recently Rene, Tony Luke, Jr and a few friends have filmed scenes in the TV series Gravesend, a drama series starring William DeMeo, (c) Christina DeRosa, and Ken Lerner. A few of the castmates came down to celebrate.
Jermaine Jenkins and Geno Vento
Get a friend like Jermaine Jenkins who will spontaneously go with you to a crazy event which you didn’t describe well, except to say it’ll be different than what you’ve ever experienced. Who will drink Sangria from a bucket and eat a sausage sandwich made in the middle of the street by a bunch a strangers. Now that was a fun night. Happy Birthday Rene!! The Italian Festival is back this year May 21 & May 22
Last night there was hundreds of police riding through the City. I had a chance to catch up with them at Geno’s and ask what they were doing. It was the Police Unity Tour to raise awareness of Law Enforcement Officers who have died in the line of duty. Also to raise funds for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and Museum. They were riding from NYC to NJ to Phila, Baltimore to DC. The west coast police had their bikes shipped, and they flew to NYC where they reunited with their bikes for the ride.
Bart Blatstein, Chair of Friends of Rittenhouse Sq and Laurie Olin, American Landscape Architect who designed the 8 foot long benches which fit 4 people. There is an arm rest in the middle of bench.
If you would like to complete payment for your bench online, please use the PayPal link here.
In 2018, UArts announced Uniquely UArts: The Campaign for Creative Capital to support four initiatives: enhancing the student experience, investing in faculty, re-envisioning campus and developing innovative programming. The goal was to raise $50 million.
Last month UArts President and CEO David Yager announced that the campaign far exceeded its goals and raised $67.2 million in a ceremony at UArts.
Nate Hamilton, who’s grandmother, gave “The single-largest donation to the campaign was $25 million from the estate of Dorrance “Dodo” Hill Hamilton, the late Campbell Soup heiress who served on the school’s board for decades, a number of them as board chair.” and Brian Effron, “I am honored to serve as the chair of this campaign,” said UArts Trustee and campaign Chair Brian Effron.”
Money from the just-completed campaign, dubbed “Uniquely UArts: The Campaign for Creative Capital,” will be spent and saved for a variety of efforts including the biggest chunk, about $24 million, will be kept in perpetuity in endowment.
Jon Lovitz, and Brenton McClosky
About $17 million is being used for capital projects, like a new student center in the former Gershman Y building at Broad and Pine Streets, the Laurie Wagman Recording Studios, and “Living Steps,” a new gathering space for students.
Lynn Sullivan, Marian M and Eleanor Davis
Lawrence Taylor and Ralph Cintino
Restricted funds totaling about $14 million are being used for programs and academic disciplines.
About $5 million is being set aside as discretionary funds — for expenditures like tuition relief, housing costs, food expenses, and art supplies.
$5.5 million will go toward scholarships.
Nate Hamilton, Harriet and Larry Weiss with Councilperson Mark Squilla
Sunday The PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship, kicked off a three day golf tournament in Philadelphia.
On Sunday they held a career exploration event at the Comcast Technology Center called Beyond the Green, an efforts by PGA Works and its partners to advocate for jobs around golf for people of all backgrounds and skill levels with an interest in the game. Beyond the Green is a career exploration event held annually in conjunction with the PGA Championship. Students from historically underrepresented backgrounds who are interested in a career in the golf industry have the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and get a behind the scenes look at the operations of a Major Championship.
The morning started off with breakfast and networking before everyone headed to the auditorium for a day of seminars, where they learned about all aspects of the game, organization and future prospects participating in the business of golf, it’s more than just a game.
Playing off the vibe and atmosphere of the event, PGA of America CEO Seth Waugh (r) told the crowd something it already knew, but is always worth repeating – “Golf is cool!”
Misha Sadekar, CEO & President of PGD Global, Play Golf Designs Inc and Rachel Melendez Mabeeis the PGA WORKS Program Specialist
The next generation of golf pros and special leaders take a deep dive with entrepreneur Nisha Sadekar and NBC’s Will Lowery to explore the career opportunities surrounding the game of golf.
The pros also talked about the other job opportunities which were available not on the field. Marketing, business managers and attorneys are always needed in connection with the business, especially by those who know the game well.
Diamond Kuts entertained the crowd
Jim Dever – Market President – Bank of America was spotted in the crowd. BOA was one of the sponsors.
The next day the athletes hit the course:
The historic Union League of Philadelphia hosted the 2022 PGA WORKS Collegiate Championship (PWCC), May 2-4, donating two of its courses for the event – Union League Liberty Hill and The Union League Golf Club at Torresdale.
Everything’s coming up roses, especially after two years of dormancy including the Stratus Spring Awakening Party which kicks off their outdoor season. Stratus Rooftop Lounge, the chic rooftop venue on the 11th floor of the Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Old City at 5th and Chestnut, welcomed the warm weather with it’s annual “Spring Awakening” party on Friday April 19.
This go-around was dubbed The Ultimate Spring Party, rife with live music from Snacktime Philly (they’re everywere, at Condessa today and last night) and noted DJs spinning vinyl, effervescent cocktails and bubbly, elevated hors d’oeuvres, burlesque, roller skating dancers, and so on, on – and they were right on the money!! It was a party not to be missed. (I missed it though as I had a friends surprise bday party (Happy Birthday Angela Val), but thanks to team snapper Andre Flewellen he was on the scene and captured the happening!!
“Our annual spring kick off has always been the showstopping event of the year – and we’re thinking the long-awaited return will be bigger and better than ever before,” said Eric Johnson, General Manager of Stratus Rooftop Lounge. “The goal is for The Ultimate Spring to be the celebratory party we’ve all been looking for after the past two years. Plus, it marks a new, vibrant, and fun-filled spring and summer ahead at Stratus Rooftop Lounge!”
Michelle Shannon, Center City District and Bruce Shannon
Scensters Brandon Edelman (Bran Flakes) and Kirk Wilson
Jennifer Grayson, Samantha Schwartz, Aiden Hamilton, Maura Kranzel, and Jasmine Nguyen
Spencer Brennen, General Manager at Birchtree Catering, LLC and Laura Swartz, Philly Mag
Richard Simango and Lloyd Shoriwa
Beth and Ty Annick-Hyle with Danielle Paurmard-Grodek
Alex Holley, Fox29 – Good Day and The Feed and Miguel Martinez-Valle, NBC10 and Telemundo
Donielle Powell, Sadie Sadie Married Lady – Congrats >> Kylie Flett,and Chandra Robbins
James Zeleniak,, Punch Media PR, Max Barna, Managing Editor: @choppersmagazine and Chris Lorenc, PA
Greg Viola, Tashna Seaton-Smal and ,Tavone Stone
Jen Nagle,Laura Burkhardt, and Daniel Briones
The lavish soirée previews the newly launched seasonal cocktail menu courtesy of Lead Bartender Christopher Devern and includes elevated fare (think: oysters, caviar, sushi, etc.) from the talented culinary team at Stratus Rooftop Lounge. As for entertainment, local DJs – including the fan-favorite DJ Romain, DJ Vanya, and DJ Hollywood – will spin vinyl throughout the evening, and Philadelphia’s go-to seven-piece brass band Snacktime Philly is set to wow the crowd during 30-minute sets in between DJ acts.
The Philadelphia Union Foundation hosted a fundraising gala in April, and raised over $250,000 to grow soccer programs in Chester schools and support additional programming at the first annual Legends of Soccer Benefit at the Crystal Tea Room in Philadelphia. The event celebrated the impact of those that have gone above and beyond, both on and off the field, to make a substantial difference in Philadelphia. PS You know I’m wayyy behind on getting events published on PCC, thanks for bearing with me.
Sébastien Le Toux, Brittany Wellner, Tori Leno and Dave Leno
Lauren Rei, Jay Berben and Farah Stacy
Richard Leibovitch, Jay Sugarman, Carli Lloyd and Paul Howard
The honorees included two-time FIFA World Cup Champion and two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Carli Lloyd, as well as Mayor Jim Kenney, the Mayor of Philadelphia, and Fred Penny, President of Bimbo Bakeries USA. All three individuals have shown how soccer can be a driving force for good. The evening itself included VIP cocktail reception, an exquisite three-course dinner, live and silent auctions with stunning prizes, and other on-the-night surprises. Guests were joined by Philadelphia Union players like Alejandro Bedoya, Jack McGlynn, and Quinn Sullivan, as well as other notable influencers and community members.
Shelby Barnes and Jack Elliott (or as I like to call my new Instagram follower, thanks)
Kate Marlys, Philly Pr Girl and Sheila Hess, City Rep
Jenn Ely and Brandan Craig
The event also saw fundraising for the Philadelphia Union Foundation’s community initiatives which include developing and maintaining Chester High School’s soccer program, mini-pitch build projects across the city, and continuing to provide under-served communities with access to soccer and related youth programming.
Rick Hall and Jennifer Lewis Hall
Jim Curtin, Philadelphia Union Head Coach
“The Philadelphia Union Foundation is building safe spaces to play soccer in Philadelphia, strengthening youth programming, using soccer as a magnet to unite diverse communities and growing the beautiful game in Chester, Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley,” said Paul Howard, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Union Foundation. “This event is a catalyst for us to showcase how soccer is making a difference in our great city and give us a chance to highlight those individuals who are leading the charge, along with an evening of outstanding entertainment.” (source)
Kyle and Alyse Carberry
Cindy Webster and Lisa Ertz
See see a Phila Union Game head for information HERE
Last week I headed to Ambler to capture the Waibel Dental Spring Soiree, and spotted this clever saying on a T Shirt. Adorable. So clever. I love when I come across a something I never saw before…Anyway it was a beautiful spring night with the ladies who attended, chitchatting with Dr. Waibel, her staff of beauty partners who partook in the evening.
Dr. Lana Waibel opened her Ambler/Springhouse practice during Covid and it is thriving. Waibel Dental is transforming the way people feel about a visit to the dentist. Dr.Waibel says it’s not uncommon for her patients to tell her they actually look forward to coming to the office to see her and sit in her chair, surrounding by peaceful colors, exotic locations shown on her big screen TVs and expert care. Did I mention the aroma of essential oils wafting through out the office.
The Spring Beauty & Wellness event on 4/21 was invite only with influencers , clients and friends. Industry partners were invited as well and each one took over a room to share their knowledge:
-GW Salon – George Waldron Salon was there, with showing the latest hairstyle trends, and colors. -Best of Philly Ani White was doing brows & makeup -Juice Pod provided delicious juices for the guests. -The Free Shop (clothing boutique, above) -Remix Fitness with two locations Horsham and Plymouth meeting talked about the latest trends. -Lily Lough with the latest in jeweler and Event Style by Bash Kits
Lindsay Reed doing Essential Oils, showed me how to sent up aromatherapy in my house.
One Hope Wine had wine samples as well as explained how their charity wine benefits. and Event Style by Bash Kits
“I’ve always wanted to be more than just a dental practice,” Dr. Waibel says. “Welcoming the Stranger is particularly close to my heart. We also give to many other nonprofits, participate in local business events, and do what we can to give back to the community.” according to an interview Dr. Waibel did with Suburban Life
Waibel Dental 545 N. Bethlehem Pike Ambler, PA 19002 (267) 405-2727 WaibelDental.com
On Saturday April 23, 2022 Abington Health Foundation roared back to celebrating their 100th Anniversary, which was scheduled to take place April 18, 2020 before the pandemic pause. The delay just made the night so much sweeter as nurses, doctors, staff and friends gathered to celebrate life on so many levels, as will be all celebrations moving forward. We, us collectively will never forget the horror we all endured, and for the many who were affected. Thank you Front Line Workers for your sacrifice.
Michael and Erica McKiernan, with Brad and Meghan Fryer
“Slick your hair and wear your buckle shoes… and all that jazz!” Guests had a fabulous time at the 1920’s style Spring Celebration last weekend. Proceeds benefit the Image Recovery Center at Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center- Asplundh Cancer Pavilion
Judy McGruther, Mark Kerschner, Maureen and Corey Evans
Maryann Watson, Claudia Lyles, Lauren Farrell and Alyson Kaplan
I love how folks really got into the spirit.
Claudia and Greg Lyles
The June Fete Fair/Horse & Pony Show returns in 2022! We are so excited to be back and we need your help! This event relies on our dedicated volunteers – visit jefferson.edu/junefete for details on how you can join us!
A New Era for Neuroscience
When patient Melissa B. turned to the Neurosurgery Division at Jefferson Abington Hospital to have a spinal tumor removed she said, “At every step of the way, from the neurologist’s office to the Emergency Trauma Center to my operation and inpatient stay, I was treated with compassion and empathy. I always felt I had chosen the right place for my care.“
Abington Health Foundation is a nonprofit Philanthropy Pillar Program that financially supports the efforts of Abington Hospital – Jefferson Health, Abington – Lansdale Hospital and its affiliates to benefit the health and well-being of our community. In 2015, Abington Health and Jefferson completed a merger that will bring exciting changes in urban/suburban access to health care. One thing will stay constant: All charitable gifts to Abington Health Foundation will still be directed to Abington Hospital, Abington – Lansdale Hospital and our affiliate locations throughout the community, just as our donors wish.
Part of Jefferson Health – Abington and the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, the Image Recovery Center brings the amenities of a luxury spa to patients interested in restoring their appearance before, during, and after the side effects of cancer treatment. Our staff is specially trained to provide professional, high-quality services, with careful consideration for patients who may have compromised immune systems stemming from cancer treatment.
Thanks to PCC Team Photographer Andre Flewellen for shooting this event.
Aldo Lamberti and family are proud to introduce and unveil the new Positano Coast in Old City, Philadelphia. The award-winning Italian and seafood restaurant, bar, lounge, event space and outdoor dining destination has been renovated inside from top to bottom.
I had a chance to go the other day, which was not a twist your arm kinda thing as it is one of my favorite restaurants, and the Lamberti family is like family. They make everyone feel that way. I love all their places, but the new space, the new menu wow so good. It’s like a new restaurant opening. I had never had the veal chop, it was delicious. Yes I ate this whole thing. Yes I know, I am mostly plant based, but as my friends will testify not out, usually. There were good vegetarian options as well but when I saw someone nearby order this beauty, it was all over.
Danielle Avarez, Sip on What and Toi Storr, Toi Time
Congrats to Danielle who recently got engaged. She met her beau at one of these Kory Aversa media/influencer events I’ve been told.
Nothing says spring like Lilly and a nice yellow sweater.
I thought I’d have fun tonight while covering this event. I asked guests “Do you sleep with your phone?” I am guilty. I know, radiation. No good reason except I’m too lazy to put it on the end table, plus I wake up and I am always curious of the time. Not much else. I also go to sleep with my ear pods in either listening to the news, Luther Vandross, or some scary podcast. Yes I have interesting dreams. Chelsea tells me she does not sleep with her phone in HER BED EVER!!! She stressed!! Penny sleeps with it right her head, in bed, to my relief. I see Penny and I have other things in common too. Love that Veal girl.
GNOCCHI 24 potato dumplings, cream of zucchini, lemon zest was Chelsea’s dish. A new menu item.
George Bank ,Laura Swartz, Kelly Meerbott and Ernest Owens
George, and Laura both sleep with their phones. Leadership and Team Development Coach Kelly doesn’t, and she probably recommends that to her clients I imagine. Congratulations to Ernest Owens who revealed his book cover “The Case for Cancel Culture” the other day, he says when he is asleep, the phone is in the other room. Now that is disconnecting.
Rachel Viggiano, @rach_ontheradio sleeps with her phone under her pillow. Mario LoVerde, @mano__loverde on the bedside, Dhruvi Shah @dhruvii__S under her pillow and Vybar Hiraesave @why_be_10 on the nightstand.
Davida Janae @vidafashionista is an under the pillow gal as her phone also acts as a baby monitor and she wants to know Cora is alright at all times.
Compatible: PHL Date Night Francesca Geonnotti with friend Anastasia Geomotti are definite no’s on sleeping with their phones.
Ray only lets Miguel sleep in the bed, but the phone is nearby to keep abreast of news on his Rebuild Philly projects. Happy Birthday Sunday to Alex Holley, who jetted off with friends to a tropical location for non-stop celebrations with the gals.
Josh Moore @josheatsphilly, Rebecca Neckritz @phillyfoodladies and Kaitlyn McLaughlin @phlmyplate
For more about the new menu and the history, visit https://www.positanocoast.net/. For reservations visit Open Table or call 215-238-0499.
