Hello readers, I hope you’re well. Hello new readers too, thank you so much for following me. I see I have over 100 new followers in January. In December I added this link to my instagram and it’s been very useful for followers to find my blog. So I receomend it. linktr.ee/Hughedillon
A few weeks ago I saw workers cleaning up graffiti along 19th Street. I asked the man about this program and he told me it was called CLIP. Community Life Improvement Program
The Community Life Improvement Program (CLIP) helps Philadelphians make the City a nicer place to live. As part of this mission, we:
Remove graffiti vandalism from buildings, street signs, and other street fixtures.
Enforce the City’s regulations to make sure vacant lots and areas are kept clean.
Lend supplies and offer trash pickup for CLIP-coordinated neighborhood cleanups.
Provide adult non-violent offenders the opportunity to complete their community service sentences by cleaning and beautifying the city.
To utilize this service call 311
Tune IN: Dr. Thanuja Hamilton is making her debut on the Nick Cannon Show tomorrow on Fox29 at NOON. She gets in bed with Nick and gives him advice on how to get the best sleep.
Congratulations to Lesley Van Arsdall, former sports reporter on CBSPhilly has co written a book with former Eagles player Brian Westbrook. They revealed the children’s book cover earlier this month, which will debut in June,
Last Saturday night Jerry Blavat and Friends entertained friends and fans at the Kimmel Center located on the Kimmel Cultural Campus. It was a fantastic night of entertainment with legendary stars. Check out Metro Philly and CBSPhilly for more photos and story.
We all headed to the Ritz afterwards, where I ran into Andy Cosenza and friends, including his bestie Alexis Lord, Flyers Dance Team.
New Tune: A new show hosted by Jimmy Fallon called “That’s My Jam”; an hour long music and comedy variety game show featuring teams of celebrities that include T-Pain, Normani, Bebe Rexa, Chance The Rapper, Kelly Clarkson and more. Think of it kind of like celebrity karaoke. House DJ is Philly’s DJ Aktive, notable for being a tour DJ, one who gets the crowd fired up at concerts, he goes on for who spins for Patti LaBelle, Common, Diddy and Janet Jackson.
Speaking of DJ Aktive, he’s hosting a a gig on his Instagram tomorrow 1/28 right before the anticipated Documentary “Janet Jackson” debuts on Lifetime. “Let’s party on my IG 12pm EST and give the Queen her flowers” Link Thanks so much for tuning in. Chit Chat tomorrow…
RUSSIAN BALLET THEATRE LAUNCHES STUNNING NEW PRODUCTION OF BELOVED SWAN LAKE WITH FOUR PERFORMANCES COMING TO PENNSYLVANIA AND NEW JERSEY
The updated classic will feature unforgettable engagements in Sewell, Trenton and Newark, New Jersey, as well as a stop in Reading in Central Pennsylvania
Photo by MIKHAIL MOROZOV
Russian Ballet Theatre is thrilled to hit the road and tour with Swan Lake for the first time since 2019. Swan Lake is presented by Co-Producers Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick. The production team includes Choreographer Nadezhda Kalinina, Production Designer Sergey Novikov, SFX Makeup Designer Irina Strukova, and Principal Ballet Mistress Tatyana Linnik. Prima Ballerina Olga Kifyak will dance the lead roles of Odette (The White Swan) and Odile (The Black Swan) – a unique and bold casting choice for the American 2022 tour. The cast also includes the amazing talents of Evgeny Svetlitsa as Prince Siegfried, Mikhail Ovcharov as Jester, Vasili Bogdan as Rothbart.
Award-winner Irina Strukova’s grand artistry will give a magical touch to this already magnificent production. Known for her film makeup creations (Netflix, HBO, Crazy Rich Asians), Strukova has created hair designs and special effects makeup that, together with the dazzling costumes, further enlighten this whimsical and glittering fantasy.
Photo by AMAL KHALIKOV
According to the press release Russian Ballet Theatre’s production of Swan Lake is replete with the visual splendor and virtuoso dancing global audiences have come to expect from classical Russian dance. The 2022 tour delights by pairing time-honored Russian traditions with some delightful new inspirations.
“Although we are telling the classic story of ‘Swan Lake,’ there are tweaks here and there that make the show new and exciting,” said co-producer Gulya Hartwick. “We have all new choreography. Usually there is one jester, we have five of them. We did what we could to make the production more lively and more colorful.”
Photo by MIKHAIL MOROZOV
RBT’s international ballet corps will draw talent from ten different countries for this new tour. The dancers will bring Kalinina’s choreography to life along with new exquisite hand-painted sets and 150 new hand-sewn costumes, all designed by the young, accomplished Sergei Novikov (Mariinsky Theatre, Omsk State Music Theatre, St. Petersburg State Music Hall) in the century-old tradition of the great theatrical masters.
“Swan Lake” takes one of Tchaikovsky’s most popular scores and mixes it with a love story inspired by Russian and German folk tales.
“Swan Lake” will be hitting the stage in each city for one night only. Tickets are now on sale for the dates, which include Sunday, Feb. 13, in Newark, New Jersey, at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center; Tuesday, Feb. 15, in Trenton at the Patriots Theater at the War Memorial; Wednesday, Feb. 16, in Sewell, South Jersey, at Investors Bank Performing Arts Center; and Thursday, Feb. 17, in Reading at the Santander Performing Arts Center. All theaters have amble parking nearby.
On Wednesday, February 16th, Swan Lake dance within minutes of Philadelphia, in South Jersey with a one-night only stop in Sewell, New Jersey at Investors Bank Performing Arts Center. This stop is just minutes from South Philly, over the Walt Whitman Bridge, at a venue that is well-known for hosting local and regional dance and ballet recitals and competitions. Showtime for this performance is 7:30pm. Tickets range $39 to $89. The Investors Bank Performing Arts Center is one of the Philadelphia region’s largest indoor venues, located at 519 Hurffville-Cross Keys Rd., Sewell, NJ 08080. For venue and health updates, visit https://www.wtps.org/Page/15570
Tickets for performances listed are available at www.russianballettheatre.com/tickets and also by visiting Ticketmaster. All venues offer onsite or nearby parking. All venues are accessible by public transportation.
Yesterday I got a tip that a new store was heading to Walnut Street sometime this year, so I headed there to get photos of the space to do a post. I noticed Steve Madden next door was closing. As you know I monitor what’s happening in Center City, openings, people out and about, restaurants and occasionally closings. I don’t always like to highlight the closings as people throw blame around, when it’s often the bottom line. Money, have you shopped at a brick & mortar lately? Rent. For years the rents have been rising on Walnut, especially in the last decade when Joan Shepp , Knith Wit moved from Walnut to Chestnut St.; Last week I wrote about Williams-Sonoma closing at Broad & Walnut, I had known for awhile the Bellevue had plans on building out their ground floor for a new concept. So when I saw the sign and Instagramed it, even with my explanation people blamed safety, the City, and not the concept Bellevue has in mind. Over the past 3 years there have been a lot of retail closures in Center City. It’s not always the reasons you think.
The stretch of Walnut Street west of Broad will likely experience a rash of closures due to flagging performance and/or expiring leases, multiple retail brokers told Bisnow. While some landlords are looking forward to the opportunity to revamp long-occupied spaces and fill them with tenants more relevant to current trends, the turnover will be disruptive near term, and potentially damaging long term. – This article was written pre pandemic, January 6, 2020. Walnut Street was influx already because of expiring leasing, rising rents, competition from malls as well as online. Then the pandemic struck. (BTW even though Stephen Starr’s Alma de Cuba is closed now, soon it will open under a new concept)
In December 2020, the Inquirer did an article on what the pandemic was doing to retail, specifically Walnut Street. Report: Center City retail is being decimated by the pandemic. ‘It’s horrible.’ We are in unprecedented times in our lifetime. It’s up to us to save retail in the City. Restaurants are booming, maybe not in January as it’s normally a slow month, we hibernate. But for all the folks who head to restaurants for dinner, stop by one of the stores and buy something. Shop Center City when you feel comfortable. Retail depends on it.
When I stopped into Steve Madden, they told me they had just put up the store closing sign earlier in the day, and sales were slow. I told them I would get the word out, especially when she told me everything in the store was $10. I came back an hour later and the store was basically cleaned out. So don’t bother going as they told me they weren’t going to restock. BTW Steve Madden offered employees jobs at other stores, as well as employees have been applying for jobs in town. Everyone is hiring. I caught the always fashionable Alex Holley, Fox 29 Good Day and stylist to the stars Arnold Milfort picking up a dozen or so shoes and accessories . Steve Madden will close this week, if not today as I am sure they sold out. Arnold does Alex’s fashion, and it is on point and lit!! Super nice guy too.
I appreciate all my readers who tagged me on social media thanking me.
Moving into the old H&M store next door to Steve Madden is Women’s Fashion Boutique Aritzia. There’s one in KOP. Work has started on the property. Thanks to the reader who send me the info, along with details of property. I had forgotten Nan Duskin once occupied this spot in the 70s, then Border’s in 80s until March 2003, when they moved to 1 South Broad St., then Xpress, then H&M occupied this location. Which is now a Walgreen’s. Which unfortunately took a bite out of the competition for…
the CVS at 1424 Chestnut Street. In the 90s the Barnes & Noble used to occupy this space before they moved to the 1800 block of Walnut Street.
Jacob Reed’s Sons had occupied this site from 1905 until they went out of business after 105 years, when B&N took over the space, in the arts & craft’s style building. I cringed when CVS took over. A lot of folks might not know but I was a volunteer tour guide for The Architectural Foundation for many years in the 90s and 00s before becoming Philly Chit Chat. This was my tour beat.
Many of my readers mentioned Barbour Philadelphia 1517 Walnut St is closing on January 23, 2022. They are having a final sale of 40 % off or greater sales until then, no returns.
So many of my readers asked me what happened to Free People at 1625 Walnut St. Sure enough everything was gone, in fact all the way down to the studs.
But don’t fret, the store is only temporarily closed.
Google Photos
A reader tells me they’re moving up the street to the former location of the Jack Willis at 1617 Walnut St. Look for a summer opening. In the meantime, support our brick & mortar when you can. Thank you readers for the tips. There is hope for the future. The endemic is near. I really like this article by Paul Levy, from Center City District for the Philadelphia Citizen. Believe in Walnut Street’s Future Philly is a hot market, we will continue, and I will continue to be out there to tout all there is to be excited about. Like record number of new buildings. People want to be here.
Bon voyage Marilyn Russell. The legendary radio dj/personality announced on Instagram that she is no longer with WOGL . Marilyn has been with WOGL since January 2017 (I used to be on with her every Friday before the pandmic), when she joined the station’s Breakfast Club broadcast alongside former WOGL hosts Frank Lewish and Bill Zimpfer, who departed the station later that year. (Valerie Knight who was part of the Breakfast Club had been laid off). Marilyn dominated the morning rush hour for several years, before moving to the 11am to 1pm slot, and then to doing just her weekly radio show “Remarkable Women” which aired every Sunday, and was featured on the WOGL website.
Valerie Knight went on to host Weekdays 6AM-10AM on the Breeze 106.1FM. Here’s Valerie and Marilyn Russell at the Kimmel Cultural Campus’ Media Night for Pretty Women: The Musical 2 weeks ago. The longtime Philly radio personality, Marilyn Russell began her Philadelphia broadcasting career in 1993 at WDRE. She was laid off from 95.7 BEN-FM in November 2016, prompting her move to WOGL. Marilyn told her followers she’ll be in Arizona for the time being.
Congrats to my friend Miguel Martinez-Valle who will be covering 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing for @nbcphiladelphia and @telemundo62. Can’t wait to catch his reports.
Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, that could only mean one thing – a great Galentine’s Party. Louie Louie in University City is hosting one. Co-owenr Sydney Grimes announced on her instagram: 3rd Annual Galentine’s Day @louielouiephl on Feb 10th 6-8pm! The event will be hosted by my best friend Editor in Chief of @phillystylezine@antonialdepace and I! 😍😍The event is BYOG – bring your own girlfriends and features Philadelphia’s top FEMALE vendors
Short & Sweet today. I have a last minute thingy to attend. I have a lot more gossip and tidbits, which I will post tomorrow. Thanks so much HughE
Hello readers. I’m sorry I ghosted you again. Last week I wrote about having writers block, and being stuck. Going into our 3rd year of the pandemic and my business has come to a halt, again and it’s thrown me for a loop. Events which were schedule for January and even February have been postponed, and left me unmotivated. I’ve been sleeping a lot. Mike will tell you there’s a lot to do, and I do have a lot to do. I just have to have hope, as you do, that this will end soon, or we will just live with it. Prayers to about a dozen of my friends who must have gotten the Delta version over the holidays, as they are still very sick. Entire families are getting sick, so mask up, especially in crowds. OK I did cover a few things this week, as well as found fun tidbits on the internet you might find interesting too.
So many pretty women came out to see Pretty Woman: The Musical last week at the Kimmel Cultural Campus, including WOGL’s legendary personality Marilyn Russell, who attended the show with contest winners. Each of the winners received a rose from Marilyn, provided by Acme supermarkets.
Carole Morganti, CJM Public Relations, Valerie Knight,106.1 The Breeze and Cindy Webster, WIP
A standout in the production has to be scene stealer Kyle Taylor Parker in “Pretty Woman: The Musical.”, who plays 2 main characters. I wish I had two pairs of hands to clap my appreciate of his performance. The show was just as charming, and plays through January 16th. It’s what we all need right now..
Congratulations to the Sugar Factory Philadelphia which officially opened on Saturday night hosted by celebrity DJ, Jersey Shore star DJ Pauly D. Thanks to my wire service Photo Image Press for placing one of my shots in People Magazine. it’s always fun to get national exposure.
Locally the photos ran in my Around Town With HughE Dillon column at Metro Philly and CBSPhilly. If you want me to cover your party, event, ribbon cutting or press conference click HERE for the details.
Sixers Tobias Harris celebrated the opening of his friend’s new store – Crumbl Cookies, in Wynnewood on January 6, 2022! Owner and operator Charles Terry III said he’s been friends with Harris for 11 years, and when the New York native decided to open up a Crumbl in Philadelphia, he knew exactly who to call to help with the launch as well as serve as a brand ambassador. Sixers Tobias Harris and Crumbl Brand ambassador and Charles Terry III of Wynnewood See more photos at CBSPHILLY and Phila Tribune as well as the April issue of Main Line Today.
Tobias Harris and his family: Dad Torrel Harris, sister Tesia Harris, fiance Jasmine Winton, and mom Lisa Harris. Tobias and Tesia were engaged in 2020, with Tobias popping the question at their future retirement home in LaJolla.
Dish of the Week. After photographing Crumbl I realized I was near DePaul‘s in Ardmore. I heard their octopus dish was delicious, so I headed over there for dinner. It’s always easy to find parking in Ardmore. Usually I get a spot on the street nearby, or when nothing’s available I park at Suburban Square a few blocks away. The dish was better than good, with a little kick to boot. I really enjoyed it, as well as the steak and Brussels Sprouts.
Things are happening in Old City: Last week I wrote about the new Cosi at 10th and Chestnut, well the old Cosi at 4th and Chestnut is about to become PINGPOD: Ping Pong on Demand – the Future of Table Tennis. Unlike the uptown SPIN , Ping Pod is not a nightclub atmosphere but similar to going to the gym and reserving the paddle board court to play. Plus they give lessons if you want to perfect your game. It stresses Covid safety, so look for it to open in a few weeks to entice us to get out of the house.
This is exciting news, especially since Mike and I have started eating whole food plant based dished, he’s now a full time whole food guy, I’ll be eating it at home, but when I am out I will be conscious of eating healthy, we’ve agreed. Anywho: Riverwardsproduce is opening in the heart of Old City on Bread Street, bread is actually allowed on my whole food plan, but not butter. Anyway They Are Hiring and at a decent wage.
It’s more than just construction and a beautiful space. In order to grow and open new locations we need the right people. Riverwards is hiring all positions right now and we offer a $16 starting wage, wellness and mental health support via Healthy Pour and Fishtown Wellness Center, 20% employee discount, Paid Time Off that includes vacation, sick time, bereavement time and family leave time and that’s not all. With the additional revenue from RWP2 we can now offer a HEALTH CARE package to our employees! This has been a dream of mine since the beginning. Follow the link in bio to learn more and apply. Let’s do this ✌🏻🌱 📸: @roccoavallone Riverwards Produce 2 opening spring 2022
OK this wasn’t so bad. Back to business. Maybe I’ll do these informative columns for a bit, as well as celebrate past columns as PhillyChitChat turns 15 this year. Tomorrow night I am banging the drum at the Flyers game, which is their equivelent to ringing the bell at the Sixers. So honored. Excited. And nervous. Also I read your emails about the print being small when you read it on your phones. I realize when I do two photos side by side, the photos don’t publish correctly and the print gets smaller. For the time being I will do one photo per paragraph, and see what can be done as I do love those side by side photos, and slideshows. On desktops and laptops it comes out fine, just not on phones. Thanks, and have a great day….
Jeff Guaracino and I at the Philly Pops Gala in September 2021; Jeff captured that fun video of Thanuja and I dancing, which went viral and inspired me to sign up for a charity dance happening this year.
Dear dear Jeff , Our hearts are broken. Condolences to your family, friends, and there are many. Philly has lost It’s biggest cheerleader, and so many of us have lost a personal cheerleader. No one was more proud of their friends and their accomplishments then you were. I will cherish all the notes you sent me over the years, especially these past years. Life can be soo unfair, but your legacy won’t be forgotten.
I met Jeff through Laura Burkhardt in 2008 (which is when this photo was taken). Bruce Yelk is on the right. He and Jeff were the best of friends, from being roommates, co workers, best friends through out their lives until the last day, they were there for each other.
I was a huge fan of Jeff’s, I’m a wanna be hospitality guy, I followed his career from GPTMC (now Visit Philly), to Atlantic City Alliance, to Welcome America to Executive Director of Visit Philly. Charismatic, self assured, driven who was focused on selling a City, whether it was Atlantic City or Philadelphia.
Even before I was Philly Chit Chat, I was excited about all things Philly tourism, I’d ride the Big Bus a couple times a year, being a tourist in my own City, photographing the City, I even had a line of greeting cards depicting tourist sites (they sold at City Hall, and a few stores). Then when I lived in NYC between 2005-2007, I would see signs promoting Philly, and dreamed of working for the tourism office at some time. (I took both these shots in 2005) I later learned these were campaigns Jeff helped initiate.
2021 Valentine’s Day Activation in Rittenhouse Square
When I started PCC, and got to know the players in the tourism industry, Jeff stood out. I followed his career, it was exciting to get to know him over the years. I learned he was behind some of the great campaign initiatives like the ground breaking “Get Your History Straight, and Your Nightlife Gay” campaign years ago made a big impression on me being part of the LGBTQ community.
The 18th annual Equality Forum kicked off with a VIP party at the Hotel Palomar with Jeff and Malcolm Lazin, founder and executive director of Equality Forum (c)
It told me that my community was worth marketing to, that we were welcomed to Philly, it’d be safe to hang out with my friends and tour the City. It was an important campaign. Of course at the time I didn’t know this was a project that Jeff, vice president of communications for the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (GPTMC) and Bruce Yelk, director of gay marketing for GPTMC, now Visit Philly.
Over the years I was able to work with Jeff and Cashman & Associates on projects they were doing together. Notably, when Jeff was recruited to join the newly formed Atlantic City Alliance in 2012 we did a few influencer projects including a memorable all night party bus club hopping activation at places around town. That was so fun. Miss America, that a bucket list for me to do, attending, covering the show and her dip in the ocean photo opp, and then there was the Maroon 5 concert on the beach August 2015. On the right is Jeff and his boyfriend Todd watching the monitor.
Jeff helped create the DoAC campaign, which everyone still refers to today
Jeff Guaracino, Chief Strategy & Communications Officer Atlantic Alliance, Liza Cartmell, President Atlantic Alliance, Paul Zoubek, Esq. at the Qatar Activation 2014
In 2016 Jeff was tapped by newly elected Mayor Jim Kenney to head the Welcome America office, which produced the July 4th events, and concert on the Parkway. It was the first year anyone ever invited me to cover the party, which was so great. I could never get into those invite only, no “press” event events. He trusted that I would get the photos I needed, and ignore any personal, wild and crazy, gotcha moment shots. Which BTW you should know are short live career moments.
Jeff and his friends
It was also Jeff’s idea to expand the party to include sponsor tents, for a price a sponsor could have space for their invited guests. Jeff was all about easing the burden on the City with finances. The funds from this party would go to Welcome America and their efforts. It was a genius idea which is still in place today.
The party and TSOP concert was a great success, despite the rain. Here’s a fun interview with Jeff PHILLYMAG
2016 Jeff introduced Philly to the new City Hall Christmas tree. The ornaments were larger than life, the base was tall and for the first time it listed sponsors on the base. He was able to get additional sponsors for the tree and found a clever way to promote those sponsors.
It was around this time that Jeff started hiring me for projects. For his first tree he had me shoot it from different angles at 2am so there’d be no people near it, from the middle of Market Street (the tree was still located on the West side of City Hall, the following year it moved to the North side.) It wasn’t really as scary as I thought it would be being that late, and the photos came out great. In 2018 I connected my client NRG Energy with Jeff, and every since they’ve been a major sponsor of the tree.
The 2nd year Party on the Parkway (2017) was a great success as well,
but it rain again. Nobody cared, not even Mary J Blige. That was an amazing experience. Pitbull was the next year and he did not disappoint. We should have him back. When Jeff went to Visit Philly, and sponsored a tent at Welcome America, I was still invited to attend, which again, was significant and I really appreciate that opportunity to cover the people attending, as well as enjoying the concert from that vantage, as a guest.
David Wagaman , Jeff Guaracino and Jarrod Williams at the PHS Flower Show 2018
It’s getting close to the time where I have to get ready for Jeff’s funeral. I missed so much, especially his campaigns thanking the FRONT LINE WORKERS during Covid. He was a visionary, kinda, caring, driven, confident.
I’m just going to post a few photos from over the years. If you’re in any of them I’d be happy to send them to you. This is one of the best articles discussing Jeff’s accomplishments. so many of which I missed here, but noted on Social Media as I was really stuck emotionally.
Jeff, moi and David Wagaman circa 2015
Randy Giancaterino wrote this poem for Jeff and sent it to many of his friends yesterday.
Jeff-delphia The day yields to dark Since you are out of sight But your legacy shines through a ray of light You will watch us from afar Inspire, teach us what to do To make your dreams come true Your soul never will be out of mind or out of heart Your touch on our lives sets you apart In the matter of life, your life mattered We didn’t know your short embrace was inevitable But your power and strength were irrepressible
And so our friend, son, brother, paisan, our City Champion, its not good night Your gift of 48 remains our good fortune Like the tower of William Penn or the glow of your City Hall holiday tree, The tenor of your voice roams over the city free…. A familiar refrain, urging and Welcoming America to Visit Philadelphia Even though your fate was 48 Your shadow is forever…. Live your best life in each endeavor
Jeff and Councilwoman Cherelle L. Parker at Mark Segal’s Christmas Party 2018
That laugh of Oz’s lion will outlive a lifetime Your joy echoing in the promise of your prime
Worry not. We will carry through your mission Equality, love of city, friendship, human compassion Enjoy the fruits of wine, snap the vines that slay Don’t let the grass grow under your ….seize the day
Joshua Thomas and Jeff Guaracino – 2019
Joshua Thomas, Director Of Development at The Philly POPS, Letty Santarelli , Councilwoman Katherine Richardson Gilmore and Jeff Guaracino, President & CEO Visit Philadelphia – 2021
Condolences to Jeff’s family, friends and fiance Joshua, who told me they had just gotten engaged in December, and were very excited for the future. Good bye my friend….
Happy New Year, although today those words feel empty as I try and navigate all that is happening around us, as well as losing a friend – Jeff Guaracino. I’ll be writing more about Jeff tomorrow, posting photos I’ve taken of him over the past decade, and for the past year leading into the pandemic as his personal photographer capturing him at events and providing him with photos for his social media, and records. Let’s see what’s been happening around town.
I was fairly busy for most of the fall, I’m so grateful to have work, I really thrive when I am busy capturing Philly and Philadelphians. I did get a break and finally had a moment to run to Pennypack Park and photograph the Mandarin Duck which had been spotted in November. So pretty. Billy Penn has a nice article about it. People have since told me that it was probably a pet and let go at some point. It’s still there, I saw photos over the weekend. If you want to go see the Mandarin Duck, head to the Pennypack Environmental Center 8600 Verree Rd. The duck is nearby, above the dam with his girlfriend, the wood duck. Or just look for all the photographers, he’s a big hit.
Got Bread: Hey Cosi, we thought you were long gone and now here you are popping up at 10th & Chestnut. Thanks to Nicole Michalik and Bill Reichert From South Philly for sending this nugget along. Seems Cosi has a new concept, and it’s perfect for the times. It’s a take out, delivery and catering concept, which is perfect for social distancing and enjoying the Signature Salad I miss so much.
A welcomed sight on Walnut. Dr. Martens has re opened a few doors down from their original store, which you know burned down in 2020 along with Vans and McDonald’s. It’s been open for about two weeks, and everytime I go by there’s a line of folks waiting to shop. Rumor has it, and here at PhillyChitChat we do rumors, the three lots where the fire destroyed the interiors of 1706, 1708, and 1710 Walnut, will be developed into a 12 story apartment building with retail on the first floor. I wish I knew more details, especially on how the deal was brokered as the three lots are owned by 3 different people. A commentator on my Instagram, where I first posted the news, mentioned that the Vans store is also reopening on Walnut.
My friends Laura and Chika checked out the Sugar Factory (Located in Midtown Village at 1216 Chestnut St.) a few weeks ago. The two story, 187-seat, restaurant, formerly Porta, was packed; Although we didn’t have a reservation they were able to sit us at the bar for a bite (banana split) which was great. Everyone looked like they were having a good time, the place is beautiful and I think it’s a great addition to the Philly food scene if you’re not looking for gourmet dining, but a kitschy fun, Instagramable spot. Plus they’re open for late night dining, which is great since most of the diners in Philly have been closing at 10PM. The official opening is this Saturday, when DJ Pauly D kicks off a set to celebrate at 9PM.
Who knew?
On New Year’s Day, the White Dog Cafe celebrated 2022 with a pajama brunch! The restaurant has been celebrating New Year for 33 years, and the pajama brunch is a great way to welcome the new year! Despite the frightful weather dozens of patrons enjoyed the award-winning contemporary American Cuisine and each other.
Speaking of dogs, I saw an orange liquor license sign on the former Crisp Kitchen at 1900 Market St. signaling Destination Dogs would soon open here. Of course we’re in a pandemic so soon could be a year.
I’m feeling a little better already, sharing news, championing the Philly scene, getting back into the groove. Happy New Year readers, and thanks for all your support. It’s year 15 for this little blog of mine. xo HughE
Earlier this month I attended the Delaware Valley Legacy Fund (DVLF) TOY 2021, it’s an annual holiday fundraising event to benefit DVLF. Guestsbuy tickets to attend, and bring an unwrapped toy for the children who will spend the holidays in the hospital. This years event was hosted by merriest of couples Miguel Martinez-Valle and Raymond Smeriglio with the very entertaining Varla Jean Merman who kept us in stitches for her entire set, including the very brave Ric Harris, President & General Manager, NBC10/Telemundo who didn’t cover his eyes or ears once,
even though I may have with Varla’s real take on LGBTQ life, hook ups and relationships especially in Covid times…. She is a must see in any season.
The event also featured a hearty brunch buffet, open bar and a silent auction to raise additional funds.
TOY is DVLF’s annual fundraising event that edifies the organization’s ability to provide for the emerging needs of the LGBTQ+ community in the Philadelphia/Delaware Valley metropolitan area.At TOY, DVLF will deliver annual grant recipients with grant checks. Additionally, because DVLF was not able to provide an in-person event at the time, they will also honor annual HEROES award recipients who have contributed to activism and growth within the Philadelphia LGBTQ+ community.
Last week I went to the very last Christmas Tree lighting in the area, and the very first ice skating rink in Delco. To say the residents were excited would be an understatement, and I don’t blame them. What a beautiful setting, with a warming tent, skate rentals, fire pits, food, and bathrooms. Let’s see what the press release has to say…
Energy Transfer Veterans Memorial Rink opens Skating Village in Delaware County with a whole host of holiday happenings
Hit the ice at the brand new Energy Transfer Veterans Memorial Rink in Delaware County. Lace up those skates and celebrate the holiday season for family-friendly fun, plus mark your calendar for winter fun for January and February. Flight on Ice presents the new winter-long attraction, including a full-size “real” ice rink and three heated tents, and wintery decor. There will be live entertainment, themed skate evenings, movie nights, and more all winter, with special holiday events in December. A portion of the proceeds will benefit local veterans in partnership with the Delaware County Veterans Memorial Association.
Inside the DiFabio’s Party Tent, there are classic cuisine options, from hot cocoa to snacks, entrees, such as kid-friendly chili and chicken tenders, and more. The party tent is perfect for casual events with families to gather on picnic tables.
Visit Delco hospitality tent for a warm, intimate ski lodge feel. Snuggle up in one of the white andornack chairs for fun and games, holiday decor, Christmas trees, all lit with beautiful bistro lights. The Flight on Ice Rink-side deck is complete with firepits, smores kits, and a stage where entertainers liven up the night. The outdoor jumbotron screen has rotating favorites, from the Eagles games to holiday movie marathons.
ABOUT THE RINK IN DELCOFlight on Ice is gliding into Delaware County with a giant outdoor ice skating rink and winter village that will pop-up in Edgmont, PA. Four Philadelphia region business partners and friends are bringing a festive winter village to Delaware County, in an area next to Bonefish Grill, at 4889 West Chester Pike. Flight on Ice will bring with it ice skating, festive lighting and decor, light dining, hot cocoa, special events and lots of outdoor fun. This brand-new, full-sized ice rink will debut just in time for the holiday season, and it will run through at least February of 2022.
In the meantime, season passes are now on sale for $99.99 and family four session passes are on sale for $39.99. For season passes, four session passes and more information, visit www.flightonice.com. Flight on Ice presents the Veterans Memorial Rink with a portion of proceeds to benefit and support local veterans. For more about Delaware County Veterans War Memorial, visit www.delcoveteransmemorial.org.
There are events happening weekly, but here are a few running up to Christmas on Saturday Dec. 21
5 p.m. Future Star’s are back with Valerie West playing acoustic. Also, Bring the kids to meet Santa, and get their portraits taken with him. Laugh along to all your favorite holiday movies, including National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation movie night playing in the hospitality tent. Skate the afternoon away, then laugh the night away.
Dec. 22
Starting at 5 p.m., The Night at the North Pole will be unforgettable fun for the whole family. Meet Olaf, elves and friends by the rink. Then, hit the ice for the silent headphone skate, where you can enjoy the sounds of 3 DJs + 3 Formats + Special Headphones with 3 Channels to choose from. The whole family can skate to the beat of their own drummer. To round out an incredible evening, stay to watch as Santa arrives on a fire engine, bringing cheer to all, courtesy Edgmont Fire Company.
December 23 5- 9 p.m. Santa Skate & Ugly Sweater Party w/ DJ Jay Roy
Tired of the running of the Santas? Dress up in your Christmas gear and come to the Santa Skate to glide along dressed as Old Man Nick himself. Go all in with drink specials and fun party games in the hospitality tent.
Costumed participants will be entered to win tickets to the upcoming Jan. 21st 98 Degrees concert, brought to you by Flight on Ice, at The Drexelbrook Events Center in Drexel Hill.
Dec. 24
11am Skate away the Christmas eve jitters and spend time with the family at the Candy Cane Skate. Holiday music will play nonstop, and each skater will get a complimentary candy cane and giveaways. Meanwhile, watch the Live Santa Tracker on the jumbotron in the heated hospitality tent.
Dec. 25
Movies starting at 6 p.m. The perfect solution for what to do after all the presents and holiday brunch are done and the doldrums kick in. Join us for a holiday movie marathon to watch your favorite movies in the hospitality tent, and warm up with hot cocoa and popcorn. Hit the ice for the special midnight skate.
Dec. 26
12- 5 p.m., Go Birds! Come hang out for the Eagles Tailgate Party and watch the game on the Jumbotron outside the rink. Cheer on our favorite team and take breaks on the ice for skating fun. Also, Mike Barclay will be on hand playing all your favorite acoustic jams for a special Sunday Funday live performance.
Dec. 27
Starting at 5 p.m., The Frozen Sisters will be on hand to sing and dance and we will have their movies on the big screen. There will be great “movie night” food offerings and an opportunity to savor photo memories as your kids can meet and greet with their favorite ice princesses.
Dec. 29
5 p.m. Silent Headphone Skate hit the ice for the silent headphone skate, where you can enjoy the sounds of 3 DJs + 3 Formats + Special Headphones with 3 Channels to choose from.
Dec. 31
11am – 5pm – Family Countdown Skates
Our characters on ice skate sessions will have your children immersed in a world of wonder on the ice with all of their favorite fairy tale and superhero characters. There will be ball drops on the big screen, video countdown, mocktail toast & party favors
5pm – 10pm – NYE Party Skate
Older children and adults can skate 2021 away while listening to some great tunes by your hosts from Schaffer Sound DJs. There will be glow sticks, great food and drink from DiFabios, party favors and a ball drop on the giant TV screen every hour.
Jan. 2
12- 5 p.m., Go Birds! Come hang out for the Eagles Tailgate Party and watch the game on the Jumbotron outside the rink. Cheer on our favorite team and take breaks on the ice for skating fun. Also, Future Stars will showcase the live sounds of local Patrick Campbell, back for a second week in a row.
Earlier this week I had a moment to go to Pennypack Park in NE Philly to check out the Mandarin Duck which has called the creek home for a few weeks. You can find him, and his girlfriend swimming near the dam not too far from the environmental center.
6 days til Christmas. Social Season 2021 has ended. I was so busy this fall. Thanks to Kory Aversa who hired me at least twice a week, sometimes twice a day to photograph his client events. Thanks to other PR companies like Cashman & Assoc.,Philly PR Girl, Punch Media, En Route for the multiple events as well.
Very thankful for CBSPhilly, Metro Philly,Philadelphia Tribune, Mainline Today, Philly Style for our media partnership. Thank you Philly Mag for leaving my name on the masthead, I hope that column goes live this year. I sure miss it. In 2021 I will be adding another outlet, but am not able to say what it is yet.
Earlier this week @DrOz stopped by the Snider’s Main Line home for a fundraiser. Oz is running for the seat soon to be vacated by Sen Toomey. (photo provided)
A new Philly-based startup is making sustainability a forefront idea in every household. The Rounds is a no-waste delivery service that refills your staple home goods — from pantry items to cleaning and paper products — on a recurring basis for a low cost. The team was out in Rittenhouse Square on Friday handing out gift cards to use their service, from $5 off to $500 off. Head over to Philly Mag for a great interview with the founders.
The Globy Awards is the leading distinguished occasion where outstanding individual accomplishments with international implications are recognize in six categories.
Left – The GIANT Company opened its fourth GIANT Heirloom Market™ in Philadelphia’s Fashion District, capping off a tremendous year of growth in the city for 2021. The grand opening event included a ribbon-cutting and remarks by The GIANT Company President Nicholas Bertram, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, and Councilman Mark Squilla.
The store, located at 801 Market Street, is accessible from inside the mall as well as Market Street, and features local produce, a large plant-based department, a self-serve tap wall with more than 30 selections, a Starbucks, and a Hissho sushi bar.
Right – The GIANT Company and Please Touch Museum (PTM) officially opened Food & Family, the fully reimagined and much beloved Market exhibit in Philadelphia’s iconic children’s museum. Inspired by The GIANT Company’s For Today’s Table® brand platform, Food & Family celebrates families gathering around the table to enjoy a meal and connect in meaningful ways. This $1.2 million investment by The GIANT Company not only transforms the 3,650 sq. foot exhibit itself, but it expands the learning opportunities in the space, allowing families visiting PTM to explore where food comes from, how to prepare and share food, and how food connects people and communities.
Another Philly Mural’s days are numbered. In early 2016 Powers’ created, Philadelphia, in Old City. There are tons of great Philly references woven into this piece, encompassing everything from art to food to music. Philadelphia became an instant classic on an iconic commercial corridor. Seems a building is to be built in the parking lot adjacent to the 2nd Street mural in Old City. Construction fences have been installed, but the mural is still intact.
Joan Myers Brown, the founder of Philadanco and Ivory Allison, President, Board of Directors at ‘Fast Forward… To The Future’ at the Kimmel Cultural Campus Friday December 10
Philadanco celebrated it’s illustrious 50-year history Friday night. “Fast forward (0 to 90 in 50+1 years)” included an opening night affair at the Kimmel Cultural Campus’ Kimmel Center. Check out more of the story and photos on Philadelphia Tribune.
Another Center City Wawa closes. This one at 13th and Chestnut, in Midtown Village. There was definitely an over use issue with this one, which is located a block away from another one which closed last year at Broad & Walnut Streets. The next closest ones are at 12th and Market Streets and the mini one at 33 S 16th Street.
Who knew Peacocks can fly. I spotted this one high in a tree at the Philly Zoo earlier this week when I attended the Philadelphia Zoo Hosts Free Covid-19 Vaccine Clinic and Community Event at LumiNature sponsored by Independence Blue Cross Foundation, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Philadelphia Zoo .
Thanks to Boston Market and Christie Mandia, VP Marketing, for advertising with PCC, and having me photograph their activation and store openings this year!! Have you ordered you holiday meal yet, there is still time!!
