Philly Chit Chat

In recognition of its 50th anniversary, Zarwin Baum DeVito Kaplan Schaer Toddy, one of Philadelphia’s longest standing full-service law firms, held a special cocktail reception at the their new offices in Center City. More than 100 guests, employees, as well as community and business leaders, and friends of the firm were in attendance at the event, including some who have been with the Firm since inception.
Even Mayor Nutter took time out of his busy schedule to stop by to make a few congratulatory remarks. Here he is with Zarwin Baum founders Norman Zarwin (right) and Harris Baum.
Harris Baum addresses the crowd
Charlotte Kate bonded with Audrey Morak as Charlotte, now retired, used to be Harris Baum’s secretary. That position is held by Audrey today.
Mitchell Kaplan proudly shows Marketing Director Stacey Kracher the Citation from the Pa Senate presented by
Sen Larry Farnese, here with Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds-Brown
Steve Schaefer, Billy Nigro, Stacey Kracher and Mike Quick
Founded in 1960 and currently maintains offices in Philadelphia and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and Marlton and Jersey City, New Jersey. The Firm is listed by Martindale-Hubbell as a preeminent law firm in the United States as well as being listed in Best’s Directory of Recommended Insurance Attorney’s and many of the Firm’s attorneys were selected for inclusion as Pennsylvania and New Jersey “Super Lawyers”. In addition, its members are leaders in a wide variety of civic and philanthropic organizations.
Anna Kerney, Nancy Landy, Joe Toddy and Nicole Rocco have a blast
Patricia Holden will speak at the National Business Institute seminar about ‘Key Issues and Case Law Update’ on April 29 in Philadelphia. Details available at http://www.nbi-sems.com/ Jim and Debbie Rose
Jean Coney, Harriet Lessey, Jill Fisher and Stacey Kracher
Barbara Chadwin, Harris Baum, Norman and Marlene Zarwin
Friends for 40 years, co-worker too Andrea Mace and Amy Moskauski
Harriet Lessey cuts the rug with Ken Fleisher. In another life Harriet was a columnist that I read faithfully called Buzz, which was in the Philly Daily News and covered news, biz items and interesting people (sounds familar); For the past decade has had a PR company called Buzz Communications and Zarwin is one of her clients.
The Team at Zarwin Baum DeVito Kaplan Schaer Toddy – Happy Anniversary!!!

Gregg Kravitz to Debate Opponent Thursday, April 29
(Bummer most of the GLBT community will either be participating in “Dining out for Life” or at the CCBO Northeast Regional Summit Welcome Reception hosted by the Independent Business Association. The picture below was taken last week at their monthly reception where GLBT biz peeps get together to network.)

Democratic candidate for the 182d state legislative seat, Gregg Kravitz, will debate incumbent opponent, Babette Josephs, who last week was named the Huffington Post’s “Most Disappointing Democrat of the Week” due to her comments about Kravitz.

On April 17, 2010 Albert Simmons was in for the surprise of his life beyond these doors at
Le Castagne, 1920 chestnut street.

His wife, Dr. Jennifer Simmons was able to pull off a fantastic 50th Birthday Party with about 80 of his closest friends.
for a sit down dinner, and later dancing.
The guests began arriving about 8PM, hitting the open bar and noshing. I was wondering how were they going to bring him in without seeing everyone.
Around 8:30PM the crowd was in place, the limo arrived
Cori Moskow and friends entered first with friends Kenny and Evan right behind her
and sure enough Albert was DUMBFOUNDED. IT was classic and I wish I had video taped it. I love a good surprise. Albert stood in the doorway for a good 30 seconds, before
becoming overwhelmed with joy at the sight of his father, Dr. Bernard Simmons . It was all I could do to burst out crying myself, not even knowing the complete story at that time.
So through out the night, when ever I got a glimpse of moments, I captured them. There is of course so many memories that occur between a parent and a child, but they are always magnified when unexpected moments, and time come our way. In the bottom left is Bart Blattstein, who is married to Albert’s sister “Jilly from Philly” someone called her.
Cori & Evan Moskow
Albert spent a good time greeting his friends including Mitch and Roberta Kurlander, Bruce Grossman, Theresa and Dan Vickery, Brian and Debbie Gault,

Lex Litman and his wife
Lauren Kline and Patti Toll Silverman
Jennifer was MC for a great “This is Your Life” segment where many of Albert’s friends, new and old paid tribute. This guy has lived, but the most poignant moments definitely came when his dad spoke.

Having been recently ill, the doctor warned the elder Simmons against flying, but he wouldn’t hear of it and flew from Florida to Philly with his wife of 16 years, to surprise his son.
But the majority of the evening was spent with belly laughs, memories of great times, adventures and hair jell. I mean geez at age 50 this guy has a few years on me and has a head of hair where I feel every rain drop.
One of my favorite moments of the night was when his friend super imposed his face on to many iconic characters and did a slide show of them. Who knew Alby, that’s what his really close friend Kenny called him, was in the Godfather.
and the Hangover? Plus he was in the Olympics with Carl Lewis and used to play pro-ice hockey. Crazy stuff, it was great.
His friend Steven Mezrow wrote a song to the tune of “Hotel California” about their trip to Nova Scotia, which was just hysterical. These people need to get a variety show. So talented wasted as attorney’s and business men.

Rosalita Jump A Little Higher
Then it was BFF Kenny’s turn to roast Alby.
Of course the wives of both men have had to endure their bromance for years.
the last shot as I headed out for the night, the dance floor was still humming, drinks were still flowing and memories were still being made. But there were a few pictures that I believe summed up the night as follows.

Albert’s girls did the most hysterical roast on their father asking the question “Is he Gay or Straight?” Seems Albert is very fond of pink shirts, Audi Convertibles, Bath robes and well is sensitive. What do they call that?
Like the stars that shine
Way up in the sky
Our love will live forever
Live forever..
Back when I was a child
Before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high
And dance with my mother and me and then
Spin me around till I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure I was loved
Happy 50th Birthday Albert!!

Last week I attended The Third Annual Red Carpet Scholarship Fashion Design Competition, presented by the Fashion Group® of Philadelphia Educational Foundation, Inc at The Chestnut Club. I am so excited I got to attend and witness the next generation of designers. So much energy, and vision, some of which left me in the dark as it was a bit edgy for my taste, but none the less exciting. The competition pits tops student designers against each other from six schools in the area. Each student competes with another student from their school. (I thought the Chestnut Club was a great space, but it was a tad warm with all the lights. Maybe they’re in a building like mine that hasn’t switched over to AC yet?)The Chestnut Club is one of the newest event venues in the City housed in one of the oldest theater’s in Philadelphia, the former Arcadia Theater which still retains it’s beautiful ornate ceiling and charm.
Students, representing six area Design Schools, Albright College (winner Rachel Garren), The Art Institute of Philadelphia (Keith Wiggins), The University of Delaware (Lisett Ffolkes), Drexel University (Anthony P. Noce III), Moore College of Art & Design (Dominiqu Streater), and Philadelphia University (Jillian Garvey), competed before a panel of judges. The judges included Cliff Boone, Design Director-Evening for Adrianna Papell, New York City, Nicole A. Cashman, President and CEO of Cashman & Associates, Sarah Schaffer, Philadelphia Style & Capitol File magazine editor, Joan Shepp, President of her namesake Walnut Street store, Joan Shepp/Suelle Corporation, Sarah Van Aken, CEO and Designer of S.V.A. Holdings Corporation, and Susanna P. Whitehill, Member of the F.G.I. Board of Directors and Owner of Susanna’s Selections for Jewelry, Handbags and Accessories.
Our host for the evening was Emmy Award winning Linda Swain who produces hosts and produces “Moms on the Move”.
The designer of this dress is the student standing

I love how this designer seems to really be scrutinizing her dress as it makes it way down the runway. Sitting in the Front Row is the Art Institute’s Fashion Design professor Emil DeJohn
Will Ball and Luba from the Philadelphia Wilhelmina office are in the Front RowRemember when I had to buy that Ring Flash for Pamela Anderson, so glad I got a smaller one than this guy on the right.
A few of the designers the two guys are Donte Livingston and Keith Wiggins from the Art Institute of Philadelphia. I remember them from the time Andre Leon Tally came to town to speak to their school.
Donte Livingston’s design from the Art Institute of Philadelphia
Drexel University design students Clair Housh, Anthony P. Noce III and Margot Snyder
winner from Moore College of Arts – Dominique Streater design
Philadelphia University – Jillian Garvey design
University of Delaware – Designer Lisette Ffolkes
A winner from The Art Institute of Philadelphia – Keith Wiggins design.
Albright College – Designer Rachel Garran
to see the Drexel University winner check out my column on PhillyMag.com which should be live about 1130AM.

Event Director Blue Cross Broad Street Run Jim Marino mans the Pretzel Stand at Love Park. Stop by today, Friday 4/23/10, buy a pretzel and support Splash and Summer Fund Campaign.

On Christmas Eve in 1927, a baby was left on the doorstep of a theater company with a note attached reading: “Please take care of my baby, her name is Catherine. I can no longer take care of her, I have eight others. My husband is out of work. She was born on Thanksgiving Day. I have always heard of the goodness of show business and I pray to God that you will look after her.”
-A Heart-Broken MotherAs a result, Variety Club International (now Variety – The Children’s Charity) was founded by the eleven entertainers who discovered Baby Catherine. Its sole purpose was to help the less fortunate and to lend a hand to various civic and charitable organizations. Variety is a not-for-profit organization that takes pride in providing programs and services to special-needs children.

CBS3’s Doug Kammerer (who is now doing the morning weather and getting used to waking up at 4 a.m.) and Temple men’s basketball coach Fran DunphyCheryl Fairweather, Lingerie Football League (I would give u the link but the website has an obnoxious video on it with yelling) and 6ABC’s Ali Gorman
6ABC’s Mara Webb measures up to NBC10’s John Clark’s raffle tickets
6ABC’s Mara Webb, Jeff Skversky – Action News Sports Reporter / Anchor , CBS3’s Meteorologist Doug Kammerer joined CBS 3’s Eyewitness News Weather team in August, 2007, John Clark joined the NBC 10 News team in September of 2001 as a Weekend Sports Anchor.
Ashley Allphin and Amber Goins
Kim Finnerty, Jeff Barter, Shanna Mellor and Jane Nickel
Jeff Shiffner, Brian Grandieri, Mara Webb and Mark Zoller (Mara was so excited that she was amongst taller guys than her. My guess is they’re on the basketball team?)
Do these girls practice posing, they seem to have that hand on hip thing down? Stacey Kracher and Anne Nikolaus
Lauren Labella and Donna Ferry, from the Philadelphia Passion Lingerie Football League team, are pictured below with Russell Ohneck. Lauren and Donna made the Pro Team, which is the equivalent to the All Stars, and will head to Monterrey, Mexico on June 10th to go up against the league’s west coast players. The next LFL season kicks off toward the end of summer, and after playing their home games at Sovereign Bank Arena in Trenton this past season, the Passion will now be at the Wachovia Center.

Let Them Eat Cake is Philadelphia’s Wedding Cake Design competition for professionals, students and those who love to bake to create benefiting City of Hope. This year’s theme was a wedding “Professional pastry company, bakery, caterer, hotel or restaurant – $150 per participant. More than one participant per establishment is acceptable.

Student Participation – No ChargeThrough a Child’s Eye/”

Oy it’s 2:15AM I will write this up in the morning, but do you really need a write up or a sugar treat after checking out these pictures. Thanks Hughe
Professional pastry company, bakery, caterer, hotel or restaurant – $150 per participant. More than one participant per establishment is acceptable.

Student Participation – No Charge
Participants are requested to provide one totally edible creation, after a blind tasting and judging we will allow participants to re-enter the room to add signage and business cards to their tables. Participants will demonstrate their creativity by displaying what they feel is their single best design, be it traditional, non-traditional, ethnic, fantasy or seasonal… the sky is the limit! Cakes will be judged in nine categories like Most Artistic, Best Tasting and Best Overall – Professional, College and High School Vocational.
Proceeds from ticket sales on the day of the event will benefit City of Hope.

Hotel du Pont’s Jennifer Houser, Catering Sales mgr., Jennifer Ballintyn, Asst. Pastry Chef, Michelle Mitchell, Exec. Pastry Chef, Jillian Cournayer, and Sr. Catering Sales Mgr., I was curious why their cake didn’t seem to reflect the “Through A Child’s Eyes” them, and the explanation was every little girl who grows up in Wilmington, DE wants their wedding here.
Miss Philadelphia, Andrea Helfrich gives Executive Director of City of Hope Harry Giordano a big Julia Sugarbaker Hello.
Star Wattage as Thom Cardwell is flanked by TV Celeb Samantha Goldberg and Lizzie Post, Emily Posts Granddaughter. All three were judges in this years contest.
For nearly a century, City of Hope has led the way in compassionate care and pioneering research. Today, with the Power of Hope campaign we have the opportunity to Forge new breakthroughs and save more lives.
I want that crown made of gold instead
Nikki DiGennaro, Rakai Reynolds, Saige Robb and Scott Lean.
It was crowded, there were a lot of delicious cakes, but I learned my lesson from last year and only had 2 slim slices.
Sunny Etminan and Dana Forgione from Cescaphe Curtis Center
One of my favorite cakes was done by Amanda Kaewvichen of Loews
City of Hope volunteers – Valerie Johnson, Emily Vartanian, Katie Vena, Liz Border and Jennifer Cabrera
The winners are announced
Colleen & Terry Laky. Piece of Cake. 484-788-1877 from Macungie, Pa They are the first bakery to ever win three awards, best tasting, best creative and best overallIt’s Thursday read my post at PhillyMag.com http://blogs.phillymag.com/the_philly_post/2010/04/22/on-the-town-with-hughe-dillon-4/

Last week The Shops at Liberty Place was packed with budget conscious women out with their besties for a fun night of shopping, spirits and prizes from Ben 95.7
The Ben 95.7 winning spinner had a long line the entire night as shoppers won anything from a pen, DVD’s, to concert tickets, to a bag of chips.
Amy D’Aulerio, Kara Karpink and Randyl Case enjoyed the night out

as did Maria Gallagher, Kelly Breslin and Nancy Harmer
After about an hour of prizes, snacks and spirits, the girls were given a list of discounts at the various shops at Liberty Place to pick up a few bargains. If they spent over $75 they were to bring their receipt back and pick up a nice canvas bag with the beaded words
Eat, Shop & Enjoy as Jill Scarlett is wearing, with her sister Liz Scarlet of Scarlett Alley in Old City.
Nancy Landon, Sharon Phillips Waxman and Ruth Ann Bishop-Sotak. Everyone in Philadelphia should be thanking Sharon for being so innovated over 15 years ago by starting Phasion Phest, which I consider to be one of the first events that helped drag the City into the 21st Century of fashion and big event planning.

Jill Scarlett, Maria Hatzivasili, Victoria Beckham, Debbie and Lynne Marsdale and Theresa McErlean.

Carmen Miller, Shelby Walker and Christina Wilson were glad to do something fun after school with Shelby’s mom
Casey Crowe and Anna Schilawski represent Victoria’s Secret. Anna says the big push is focused on Mother’s Day in May and one of the popular scents you can pick up at Victoria’s Secret is “Heavenly Flowers.” Casey agrees it’s smells memorable. I’ll take their word for it, what do you think?
Chik-Fil-A’s Eric *Big E* and Heather Masse, Cafe Coco in the Mellon Concourse. During the month of May on Monday & Friday’s, 10% of all checks will be donated to the Leukemia Foundation.

This kid was enjoying himself, which is good practice for when he gets a girlfriend and she drags him around all the stores saying “honey how do I look in this?”
Many people mentioned they saw the ad in the Metro that day promoting the event. The Metro was one of the sponsors and sure enough the ad worked as the crowds were strong. The event started at 5:30PM and I took this picture about 7:15PM and there was still a crowd.
The girls from Adolf Biecker: Kristen Miller, Gina Lees, Ashley Richmond, and Jenn Harrigan.
Lynette Smith and Jacqui Tobler often get together for “girls night out”, and when Lynette saw the ad in the Metro she saw it as a sign to get out and get shopping with her BFF Jacqui. She especially like that this was a one stop shopping destination with lots of choices in stores to chose visit.
The Team of PunchMedia James Zeleniak and François Pierre with James friend Annette want to make sure you check out The Shops’ other events this spring, including the Spring Sidewalk Sale, May 6-8.
Random Odd Shop, but not so random is the fact that Thursday is the Kick-off Party for Rittenhouse Row at the Shops of Liberty. Starts at 6:30PM in the Rotunda. I went last year and it was really fun, a really who’s who of people that live, work and play in the Rittenhouse square area. See below for info:
Rittenhouse Row invites you to please join us on Thursday, April 22 from 6:30-9:00 at The Shops at Liberty Place
For the annual Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival Kick Off Party

*Cuisine and Cocktails from Alfa, Alma de Cuba, Barclay Prime, Butcher and Singer, Capogiro, Cavanaugh’s Rittenhouse, Continental Mid-town, D’Angelo’s, Devon Seafood Grill, Di Bruno Bros., Du Jour, Fado, The Franklin Mortgage and Investment Company, G Lounge, La Colombe, Lacroix, Ladder 15, Le Castagne, Marathon Grill, Metropolitan Bakery, Parc, The Raven Lounge, Rouge, Shank’s Uptown, Square 1682, Village Whiskey, The Walnut Room and Zama

*Diageo Cocktail Competition with mobile phone voting from XIPWIRE

*Chairman’s Selection wines

*Raffle from Govberg Jewelers

*Music from DJ Joey Blanco

*Silent auction from Rittenhouse Row boutiques, spa-salons, hotels and restaurants

Tickets are $75/per person or $125 (VIP Patron)
Download response card at www.rittenhouserow.org