Philly Chit Chat

The Wachovia Building, originally the Fidelity-Philadelphia Trust Company Building is a skyscraper located on 123 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This beaux arts[2] office building was completed in 1927[3], but was remodelled in 1996. The Wachovia building was designed by Cope Linder Architects [1] and is 29 stories tall. It was featured in the 1983 movie Trading Places as the headquarters of Duke & Duke.
REPORTS are coming in that there is a multi-alarmed fire at the Wachovia Bank Building at Broad & Chestnut Streets.my friend reports that most of the windows on street level have been destroyed, especially these historic gold framed 2 story windows.
Heavy smoke has found it’s way up to the 5th & 6th Floors of the building. I suspect the fire started on a lower floor, perhaps even the first floors, why else would they smash out the beautiful historic windows on that level. The fireman are reportedly opening all the windows on higher floors to let the smoke out. Hmm I thought it was bad to let oxygen fuel the fire, I’m sure they know what they are doing. Also in this building is the Montgomery McCraken law offices
with it’s beautiful law library, where I’ve attended lectures and receptions.

On March 4, 2010 the 3rd Annual John DeBella Comfort Food Fest was held at the Cescaphe Ballroom in Northern Liberties.400 invited guests won a call in contest and sampled comfort food creations made by 12 of the area’s top chefs as they compete for the 3rd Annual John DeBella Golden Spoon Award.

The idea for the Comfort Food Festival came to DeBella when he was driving home from a meal at a fine restaurant. He thought, “What do the top chefs in the city fix themselves when they’re hanging around the house? What’s their comfort food?” He called public relations expert Nicole Cashman of Cashman and Associates to see if she was interested in working with him on a comfort food tasting event with MGK. She was, and the Comfort Food Fest was born.
Lisa DeBella and Justin Wineburgh. Lisa who is still in the real estate business, and will be forever is also looking into various fields to follow her dreams on the side (sorta like me). I advised her to start a blog and write about her experiences. One of the first stops for me was Chef Robert Legget (last year’s winner)– Cuba Libre where he created a meal that was inspired by a TV dinner as he had his all dinner and dessert on the same dish. It was an explosion of flavors that wasn’t my favorite as I wasn’t a fan of the Fois Gras Ice Cream, just was odd to have it with my spicy entree.
Jay Nolan, Jill Schoenfeld and Jesse Stein enjoy
Kildare’s Brian Duffy’s goulash and potato with crab meat salad. (2nd choice by PhillyChitChat Mike & I)
Lucky Strikes Christy Aldrich and Melissa Shonley.
My favorite dish all night as well as half the folks I polled including Mike and I. The Lobster Pot Pie by Chef Justin Weathers – Cescaphe’ Ballroom presenting Atrium at the Curtis Center
Sous Chef Scott Schoeder and Chef Mark McKinney – Cantina Dos Segundos
3rd choice by PhillyChitChat (Mike & I)
With their crispy terrazzo meatloaf enchiladaThe Three Amigo’s will be on the loose this summer: Ray Evers, Justin Wineburgh and Brett Rosenbloom
AND THE WINNER IS: Again what do I know about food if it’s not a cupcake or burger as Chef Robert Legget, Cuba Libre won again this year; this time;with his TV Dinner of Hickory smoked kobe beef shortrib chilli, Foi Gras Ice Cream, Fried Cornbread Cookie, Pasilla Chocolate Sauce. (Because I gave up sugar for lent I didn’t eat the fried cornbread cookie with chocolate. Maybe that’s what I was missing.)
Chef Robert Leggets, WMGk’s John DeBella, NBC10’s Dave Warren, Diane Warden, Mainline Magazine, Lisa DeBella, super sweet wife of John and looking to follow a 2nd act career and Dan Fein, WMGK’s Promoter
Thanks to all the Chefs and Restaurants:
Chef Robert Legget (last year’s winner)– Cuba Libre
Chefs Daniel Stern and Steve Lamborn – MidAtlantic
Chef Justin Weathers – Cescaphe’ Ballroom presenting Atrium at the Curtis Center
Chef Peter McAndrews – Modo Mio
Chef Brian Duffy – Kildare’s Irish Pub
Chef Michele Mazza – Il Mulino at the Trump Taj Mahal
Chef Terrance Clarke – Lucky Strike Lanes
Chef Mark McKinney – Cantina Dos Segundos
Verdad Restaurant
Tequila Bar (Chef: Nick Farina)
Chef David LaForce – Alma De Cuba
Chef Michael Infarrari – Mia at Caesar’s Atlantic City

Mike Fazio doing his best nerd Fonzie with birthday girl Jill G. Fazio throws great parties, and can be a real crack up on his twitter @mikefazio
Jill and her girls. Check out Jill tonight with her other girls, the 76er Alumni Dancers, who will be performing tonight at half time during the basketball game.

Sixers Dancers Alumni Night – Monday, March 15 vs. Knicks

In the largest gathering of Sixers Dancers ever, 50 alumni members will join the current squad for a special six-minute halftime performance. The first 5,000 fans in attendance will receive a Sixers Dancers poster, courtesy of Comcast SportsNet. Christine O’Brien, Nicolette Rodder, Kelly Murray, Tara
Kim with X-Rated Fusion. Sponsoring the night at G Lounge 17th & Chestnut Streets.
Brett Milstein & his dad, Drew Milstein
Victoria, Sierra & Rachel
Melissa McGillen, Kevin Gross and Kelly Murray (What r these three doing on St. Patrick’s Day Wednesday. I’m heading to McGillin’s then over to Hacina’s Ladies Dinner)
It’s one year this week since Law Abiding Citizen finished their movie. In that year it premiered, and is already out on DVD. Crazy times.

The Wing Bowl may have been 3 weeks ago, but last night the Jewish National Fund crowned two wing-eating champions at the 2nd Annual “Shank Bowl” at Finnegan’s wake. You may recall that “The Hungry, Hungry Jew” Adam Taxin was to compete in the Annual Wing Bowl at the Wachovia Center, but at the last minute pulled out because of religious dietary concerns; he’s kosher and the wings were not. Last night not a problem as the wings were provided by Max and David’s Kosher Restaurant in Elkins Park, Pa. and as the reigning champion it was his duty to defend his title.

Our hosts were Rachel Baum and Joel Frisch of the JNF (Jewish National Fund), flanking my girl Hadas Kuznits and the MC of the night (Not pictured for no good reason Marlo & Mike R.)
The contestants and their entourages parade thru the crowd
and celebrate the night with great expectations on them being crowned 2010 Shank Bowl Champion.

The competition was fierce. The men would go 3 – 5 minute rounds eating the most wings.
The women 1 round for 5 minutes. Here are a few of them prepping for the big contest. I forgot my notepad so these name cards aren’t going to to me any good, but the pixs tell a thousand words. (Is that Natalie Portman in the T white shirt?)
and a few minutes later
The crowd cheered wildly for their favorite contestant, most were close friends, roommates and almost all of them were separated by no more than 2 degrees of attending the same summer camp, or friends who went to that camp.
Amy Liever is roommates with two of the girls competing in the competition. With her on her left is Kim Racicot and Clare Herlihy, Marketing dept of Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia (Thanks Clare for reading PCC)
Cuties, applying for the amazing race. Abby Feiner, Allison freedman. Abby is my #1 fan she tells me, thanks:)
Also in the crowd was Gregg Kravitz, who is the only democratic challenger against Babette Josephs. Gregg main campaign is to create effectiveness, drive an agenda, something he says Babette hasn’t done. Isn’t it time for improvement? With him is Leah Greenspoon and Phila Film Festival’s Jared Miller. Who tells me that next week the Phila Films Society will release the lists of films coming to the 3 Day Pennsylvania Hospital Sponsored festival 4/9 – 4/12
Radio host Adam Taxin, who is the reigning champ defending his title.Hadas with some of the contestants.
The Rabbi counts on both hands the number of children he has that added with 6 would be the total. Octo Rabbi.
And they’re off. What’s really amazing here is that it seems that no one has dropped any of the chicken sauce on their shirts. My shirt would be splattered and yearning for a wash, and I definitely don’t rush thru my meals like these boys just did.
Contestants are eliminated after each round for having the lowest number of KOSHER wings consumed. Almost the entire bottom row or peeps are gone, and on the top rowwhat no more Adam Taxin, what happened? I thought he would fight for his reign. He’s gonna give up all those appearances that come with the title, as well as the money prize which I think was $200
Then it’s over and we rest and the judges begin to count,
making sure 85% of the wing meat is consumed. (YUCK)
I go out to visit one of the sponsors. You know I am supposed to be Philly’s Cupcake expert and I have never had a Buttercream one before (my results will be another day)
Former contestant and not a winner Erika Myer and Paige Levin
and the winner is
Ben Jablonski who ate 66 wings in 15 minutes, he receives congratulation and $90 from Venmo which he texted to him two his phone. Very Cool.
Congratulations Mr and Miss Shank Wing Bowl 2010 – Ben Jablonski tells me this is his lucky hat as he wore it when he climb Mt Everett. He’s a real adventurous girls, he just got back from the Philippines where he went cliff diving. Ben, resides in Manhattan and is the JNFuture Founder and National Chair, w/JNF’s national and global initiatives. Ben tells me that he was listening to Bad Romance and then “Eye of the Tiger” for the last two minutes on the IPod for inspiration.
Most of the contestants posed for a group shot at the end of the night. The missing folks may well be in the bathroom throwing up or sprawled out on the floor.

Sorry I didn’t get to all the posts I that you are probably waiting for; as for the WMGK Comfort Food event last Thursday, the winner was finally published in the paper, but MK didn’t use the photo, so I am no free to go ahead with that. I don’t always have to wait, but something that includes a winner I would probably wait on, I wouldn’t want to do the entry w/o that info. Also will post Oscar viewing event Monday. So that will be two again. Also I have restaurant news I want to post, so maybe over the weekend and I will Tweet it. Too many events, I just need to catch up, whew. have a great weekend. Hughe

The Art of the Steal, a timely film, unique to the Philadelphia area (here are the Showtimes in Philly). I didn’t have the opportunity to see it, but I did cover the after party.

Here are three excited people involved in the film, which is about The Barnes Foundation moving to the City, and it’s neighbors in Merion who fought to keep it there, and respect Alfred Barnes Will.

Sheena Joyce, Producer “Art of the Steal”, Lisa Schwartz, EVP, IFC Films and Director Don ArgottMary Heine, Ross Mitchell and Jill Govberg. Ross was one of the neighbors that appeared in the film.
Joan Bressler and Michael Lopatin
Now some of them worry what will become of the empty Barnes facility, most hope it will remain as a teaching facility, or worse it become dorms for St. Joe’s College?

“Real Clear Arts” by Judith H. Dobrzynski on Culture
Can This Documentary Save The Barnes? A Sneak Peak. The countdown begins: On Feb. 26, The Art of the Steal — Don Argott’s documentary about the struggle for the control of the Barnes Foundation — opens in theaters (two days after it can be seen on demand) in New York and Philadelphia.
http://www.artsjournal.com/realcleararts/2010/01/barnes-trailer.htmlThe Cool Kids: Reggie Berry and Jackim “Jackey” Wright; these two are keeping it cool at Strongbox every Tuesday night. Their party is so successful they run a list, and you either have to know them, or be well connected to pass thru the doors as it’s standing room only every week. Bottle Service available by reservation and they go quickly.Andrew Greenblatt and guest. Andrew is director of the The Philadelphia Film Society which is preparing for the Presentation of the Philadelphia Film Festival Spring Preview, Presented by Pennsylvania Hospital: 3-Day Free Preview Event Will Take Place April 9 – April 11 at the Prince Music Theater
Attorney’s Justin Wineburgh and Allison Binder. Justin is spending the remaing chilly winter days in Florida, but looks forward to returning to Philly in a few weeks. So jealous. Allison runs her practice in Beverly Hill, Ca and has her hands in many of the projects that end up on the big screen, so jealous. She reads PhillyChitChat to keep up to date with the going ons in our fair town, thanks:)
Michael and Joanne Fitzgerald
“The Tangled Case of the Barnes Foundation and Its Art Treasures: Don Argott…Talks About his New Film,” by Eric Kohn in Speakeasy, an arts blog from The Wall St. Journal
http://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2009/09/12/rock-school-documentarian-don-argott-turns-his-attention-to-the-art-world/

SINCE 500 DEGREES IS CLOSED BECAUSE OF A FIRE, I SUGGEST YOU GET A BURGER DOWN THE STREET AT LADDER 15 OR HOW ABOUT SOME CHINESE TODAY, AT THE WOK IN THE 1600 BLOCK OF WALNUT STREET. EVEN THE PALAMOR AT 17TH & SANSOM IS A GOOD CHOICE, WITH IT’S OUTSIDE DINING.

UPDATE OPENING DAY: http://www.phillychitchat.com/2010/03/500-degrees-burger-is-now-opened-first.html

UPDATE FOR BURGER GIVEAWAY: A new burger place is opening in our neighborhood. It’s own by Rouge, undoubtedly the best burger place in the City. But you don’t have to spend $16 for their burger as they are opening a mini-burger place. Burger, Fries & a soda for under $9

TODAY:

The first 100 people will be given a free burger of their choice starting at 11AM. After that, until 3pm, bring a friend and split the bill with a buy-1-get-1.

From 5-7pm enjoy free soda and fries with the purchase of any burger. And then finally, from 11pm until their yet-undetermined closing time, enjoy free fries with any purchase.

1504 Sansom Street

ORIGINAL POST: Yesterday (3/4/10) I was invited to a tasting at Rouge for the new burger restaurant 500º which will be located at 1504 Sansom. The time 9:00AM. No corn flakes for me today.

The Menu, easy, simplistic, easy to read, easy to order.
For many of you who follow me on Twitter you know I am a burger guy, love my burgers, love my buns and love my fries and more or less do a burger tour of the City monthly. A few weeks back I went to Rouge for my first burger there. Kim Genkin, Neff Associates follows me on Twitter (IPhillyChitChat), mentioned it to the folks in the know and well they agreed along with Rob Wasserman that I should come to the 500º tasting and give them input about all things burger. Other folks invited were friends, regulars, David Neff & company, Michael Klein and staff, Who could turn down an invite for burgers for breakfast as well as be the first one on the block to take a bite, yum. OK it was a bit crazy, but I was so excited to see how these behind closed door tastings play out.
500º is a joint love affair of Rob and his wife Maggie Wasserman, as well as their staff including Chef Matt Zagorski and his team who will be running the operation. Most of the details were already ironed out, packaging perfected, but feedback was essential and included taste, texture and appearance.

Also the Wasserman’s filled us in on the inspiration for their baby 500º. Mostly I heard stories of their favorite memories while growing up where burgers were simple and tasty; fries and shakes completed the meal.

But Rob and Maggie aren’t just anyone, they are the owners of Rouge, the iconic restaurant on Rittenhouse Square, where the who, who’s dine, young and old mix, tourist and celebrities hob knob. So as much as they might not want to call this the little Rouge Burger, it certainly has that pizazz of uniqueness, quality and good taste.
Chef Matt Zagorski explains to the early morning crowd the 5 temperatures of preparation, as well as the quality of meat, stressing it’s not the kinda burger you’d find at a fast food place, it’s think and doesn’t fall apart.

Below is his team who will be running the operations at 1504 Sansom Street. (about 1 block from where I work, scary.) Samantha Cruz, Joseph Cairnes and 12 yr long employee/GM Robert Pearce. (Who I knew in another lifetime.)
At 500º, chef Matt Zagorski the 5½ ounces of beef, will be served on a Challah roll from Wild Flour Bakery, which will deliver twice a day. (here we have the Classic $5.75 and the Cheese Burger $5.25. The plain burger is not here, but that’s $4.75, and the 500º is $5.75. (My suggestion was to make it $6 ’cause it was the signature burger, but Rob & Maggie said no way, it’s more about the affordability then gauging customers for another $.25 ). (Some folks were suggesting a flashing neon light “Fresh Rolls Just Delivered” paying homage to “Krispy Cream Donuts.” That didn’t fly either.)Fun features of ordering your burger include what kind of pickles you want. Rob remembers going to camp as a kid and enjoying the Bread & Butter Pickles and that’s what he likes with his burger, but he’s going to give you an alternative to, The Kosher Pickle; that’s what I like. (Michael Klein likes the Bread & Butter ones.)

Also two dipping sauces for your burger or fries, I never asked, I suggest it’s for both my table mate nixes it. The top fiery orange one is great for head colds and sinus problems, it’s jalapeno something. Not so good for first thing in the morning. The second sauce much nicer, mayonnaise, Worcestershire and tasty. Both of these sauces as well as the ketchup and mustard will be in SQUEEZE BOTTLES, and that was emphasized. I imagine as a kid Rob did not like pump bottles or perhaps he’s been to Geno’s where they get all clogged up if not cleaned on a regular basis.
Another favorite childhood delectable was Bassetts’ Ice Cream, Rob’s favorite. So when you order your shake know it’s Bassetts. Three flavors

Chocolate, Vanilla and Black & White, $5 for 22 oz. Oh and the pop drinks 22oz, self serve (so just tell them you’re getting the tax free diet soda and save $.2 an oz, but this is only an opinion so don’t subpoena me when you are arrested for evading taxes.) My pick is always a chocolate shake, but some days I like vanilla, today I had the Black & White.
Fries Plain, (There will be no cheese fries, unless a child comes in crying and the mom says he can’t live without them. )
Spicy and Truffle, but this is not their packaging. The packaging was well thought out, clever and practical. (WOW on the spicy, even more so than Popeye’s)
Again think simplicity, mobility, and biodegradable. It’s true 500 is going for the green, not completely, but notable. No more plastic trays, all orders will be in this handy white paper bag for portability to your destination. Now originally Rob was thinking drink in bag, but a few folks groaned at the idea and the drink tray was conceived for 2 or more orders. Now that’s productive feedback at a tasting.
Fries will be served in this attractive bag, who’s weight escapes me, but small was not in his vocabulary. Also they will be sealed, and any grease will be contained inside and not soak thru to your pants.
One of the best ideas in packaging has to be this very sturdy brown wrapping for the burgers. Doesn’t crumple, doesn’t soak up the juices, and actually works for me since I will be spending many a day eating these burgers at the park, although they will have 23 seats inside the restaurant so that’s an option too. Decor rustic, relaxed and laid back I hear.
Hours can I tell you about hours? When IHop opened, they used to close at Midnite. I said to the manager you are practically the only restaurant in this corridor of 12th & Walnut, you have to stay open later and it will pay off. I went back and now if you are seated by 1:30AM you can stay past closing at 2AM. When Philly Cup Cake opened and their hours were 9AM til 6PM, what are you crazy, you have the best cupcakes you have to extend your hours, now they are 8AM til 8PM (What I didn’t suggest was they raise their prices, which they did by a dollar, ugh!!)

I didn’t have to suggest that to Rob cause he already understands the market.

The hours for 500 are 11AM til 10PM and on FRIDAY AND SATURDAYS TIL 3AM, that is so awesome. Well I’m not out that late anymore if I can help it, but great for some of you late nighters. I foresee lines out the doors so get there right when the club closes.

Enjoying burgers alongside me were smart looking couple Tempa Berish and Eric Robbins, They loved the burgers, thought they were high quality, and look forward to late night noshing. Perfect way to start the day as they headed off to their company Chelsea Partners.
Rob Wasserman and his real estate broker, Steven Gartner, who helped seal the deal with just the right location of 500.
As the 11 o’clock hour approached it was time for me to return to work, lunch hour was over and Neff & Associates needed to finish strategies with Rob and Steven about the 3/23/10 launch. I did offer one last advice, perhaps they could open on 4/1/10 with the slogan “It’s No Joke, we’re open today!!” They groaned.
With the memory of breakfast still on my mind
I return to the scene of the crime and enjoyed a scrumptious Rouge burger for dinner last nite, I got healthy & had a side of salad instead of fries. (must return to my diet before 500º opens)

More than 1,200 guests attended the 11th annual Red Ball, hosted by the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) Chapter on Saturday, March 6 from 8pm – 12am at the Please Touch Museum at Memorial Hall.
All proceeds from The Red Ball directly benefit Red Cross House, the SEPA Chapter’s one-of-a-kind short-term housing facility in West Philadelphia where hundreds of local families every year begin their recovery from fires, floods, and other disasters affecting their lives

Eleni Belfsonzi and Bill Fritzie. Eleni and I are workout pals at Fusion Cross Training. Eleni won tickets tickets to the Ball from a raffle that Terra restaurant held; Terra was a proud sponsor of this year’s Red Ball and a little later in this entry you will meet Terra’s Chef.
Andrew Boyle and Miss Phillies Nutritionist Katie Cuvato Boyle. You’ll recall last week that Michael Klein’s Inqlings broke the story that Katie would be the Phillies nutrionalist at Spring Training in Clearwater, Fl. She tells me that during the regular season she will be feeding the boys in their clubhouse.
Caitlin Joyce and Michael Kondriok

A highlight of the evening was a special performance by Top 10 singer/songwriter Adam Crossley. He sang his hit “Beautiful World,” and “Hope,” a new song dedicated to the work of the Red Cross. While he performed, images of the Red Cross’s disaster relief operations at home and in Haiti scrolled on TV monitors.
Ashley Cook, Phlare Magazine, Isabella Sparmao, and Katie Joyce
DA Seth Williams cuts a dashing look in his tux, as does his dress alike daughters Taylor, 10 and Hope 6 have no problem.
Victoria Woodrill, Kharisma McIlwaine and CBS3 Marketing
Congratulations are in order for Dr. Adriana Torres with the debonair Kerry O’Connor, Director of PR for the Magee Rehabilitation, they just got engaged on February 19 at the very romantic XIX restaurant at the Hyatt Park at Bellevue. Also Look out for the upcoming event: Night Of Champions for Magee into your shooting schedule. It’ll be May 7 and Andy Reid, Howard Eskin, Fran Dunphy, Scott Palmer Joe Conklin are already signed up to attend and there will be more sports celebs to come.
David G. Orphanides (photos), Jessica Matthews (photos), Hadas Kuznits (photos), Mike Rosenberg (photos) (Thanks to my friend Hadas Kuznit’s for this shot which I took off her blog. I missed a lot of these shots focusing on the red carpet waiting for Heather Graham who fell ill and never made it.) David Orphanide’s is co-owner of Fare, a restaurant scheduled to open in Philly’s Fairmount section some time in late spring.
Erin and Kevin Hexstall. He is the Chairman of the RAWLE & HENDERSON’s Criminal Defense section. It’s our year anniversary as I met them both at last years Red Cross Ball.
Guests at the “red tie” gala will sample culinary delights prepared by Philadelphia’s hottest chefs and for the first time ever, get to vote on which is the best. VIP ticket holders enjoyed an all-access evening, including Max & Me Catering in the exclusive VIP lounge.

This was one of the best improvements over last year, as you recall last year this was nothing but a thruway to the VIP Carousel Room. This year the party planners created a beautiful room where the Max & Me caterers were set up, as well as a sea of tables & chairs for guests to enjoy.
Parc ster Leah Kaithern and John Patterson had a great time.
“friends” Richard Penn and Mission Grill’s Jamie Reibenbach. Jamie is always executing some exciting event at Mission Grill. Support it, she’s a lot of fun and friendly to everyone.
Richard, who I hardly ever see anymore, is working with a brand new marketing grouping. Looking for bright, articulate, very attractive, personable and outgoing promotional models from 21 – 30 yrs old for full time positions in the Philadelphia area. If interested, please drop me a note or e-mail them at rittenhousemarketing@ gmail (dot) com with photos and a resume. 2 full-time positions available and 1 part-time.
Susan Helfrich and Richard Wolff. Talk about two busy folks, we never see them anymore. Susan is busy with her “celebrity” cruises and Richard is distributing like crazy with his movie distribution company, Breaking Glass Pictures. The last time I checked Breaking Glass Pictures was looking for a few interns to earn class credit. Tel: 267-324-3934

They also dance the night away with entertainment provided by CTO World Entertainment Productions, which is hands down one of the great Philly bands.
There was also a band in the VIP that kept the crowd cheek to cheek
Philly Mag’s Photo Editor Jessica Hawkes and world traveling beau Scott Webster
Laura, Chef Eric Paraskevas and Ralph from the delicious Terra Restaurant 243 South Camac Street (lower level)
Jackie Hein, Chef Krzysztal Block and Michelle Mane O’Brian Snooki
My heart be still think Jamyra Perry. I need a cigar to complete my night.

Grace Flanagan, Debbie Jaye and Janna Challenger
Frank Sestito and WOGL’s Valerie Knight. Frank who was successful in orchestrating 2 Second Story reunion’s, is now working on a Catacomb reunion with DJ Robert Drake, Philly’s original original new wave guy.
Kharisma McIlwaine, Philadelphia Tribune’s long time photographer Robert Mendelson, GPTMC’s Rachal Ferguson, and CBS3’s Rob Williams
OMG OMG Kristen and Eddie Alderson. I’m a huge fan of One Life To Live and I was drooling all over them like a fan boy. They both were so great, and accommodating to other guests. Here’s Eddie greeting Philly born rapper Schoolly D, who was so cool and friendly to everyone who approached him. I love when these shots materialize, I’ve always been a fan of capturing the moment. Vatche Manoukian, VP/Parx Casino and ABC6 Reporter Kristie Gonzales. Unlike last year there weren’t as many Philebrities, as you’ll recall almost every single news anchor was mingling last year. This year Chris May stayed home as I chatted with him and Monica Malpass enjoyed a pizza with Where Magazine Publisher Laura Burkhardt at Zavino’s.
My It Girl was there though, Sabrina Tamburino and Kristen Foote. The girls made it an early night as they were partying Friday night at Atlantic City One, the new party venue on Caesar’s Pier in AC. Sabrina is working hard at perfecting her dance step to compete in the upcoming Dancing with the Philadelphia Stars, a charity dance off that benefits Sickle Cell Anemia. Kristen Foote, she’s looking smokin’ in red, one of the few who dressed in the hue.

I have nothing nice to say about Tony Danza cause he had nothing nice to say to anyone who was at the party. He refused to pose for photos, and if someone asked him a question he referred them to read his book. Yo Tony, when you are a guest at a Charity Event, it’s called working or at least karma.
From Michael Klein’s column: Three dozen chefs catered Saturday’s Red Ball fund-raiser at the Please Touch Museum, and the 1,200 attendees were asked to vote for their favorite dish by depositing a wooden token in a box on each table. The evening’s winner was not some fancy joint, but chef instructor Charlie Schmidt and his students at the North Philly vocational school OIC, who prepared scallops bellini with truffle cream. Among the crowd were actors Tony Danza, Kevin Navayne (who I chatted about when I met him at the Hair of the Dog Party in Jan), and Bucks County-raised soap-star siblings Eddie Alderson and Kristen Alderson. Heather Graham, who’d been on the VIP list, was a no-show. The organizer, the Red Cross, relayed word that she was “feeling under the weather as she was suffering from a stomach ailment, which she assumes was food poisoning. She thought she could troop it out but was unable to.” The ball raised $216,900.

Modern, stylish, delicious. Penne brings you the finest regional Italian cuisine, focusing on local and seasonal ingredients. Our pasta chef handcrafts unique delights before your eyes – in a setting that’s warm and whimsical. More than 100 regional Italian wines handpicked by our Master Sommelier and an outstanding bar menu. We’re Italian made fresh. Last Friday my friends Janita and Jessiah Styles invited Mike and I (& 2 other friends) to this special cooking class dinner held about 4 times year, where Chef Roberta Adamo prepares your meal right before your eyes. After stints at the B100.3 as a DJ, and three years as a Phillies Ball Girl Janita has been out of the spotlight for a bit raising their daughter Jacodi (No she’s not thinking of a sib for Jacodi yet, don’t ask her). Jessiah’s been busy with his production company. In the past 2 years has produced HBO’s “The Black List”, and is just about to launch a talented young man’s career, “The Show” in a couple weeks.

Chef Roberta tells me that these dinners are her charity specialties as she donates them to organizations to put in their Silent Auction and then about 4 – 5 times a year she will cook for the winners. Our meal included Sweet Potato Ravioli, if I didn’t die and got to heaven. So delish. Then Cape May Seared Scallops, with a Orecchiette and Kennet Square Mushroom. A Rack of Lamb, and finally for dessert…
Her’s wasn’t a planned career, but when the chef at her former husband’s restaurant left unexpectedly, it was Roberta Adamo who jumped in to begin making pasta with a recipe she found in a cookbook and childhood memories of making pasta at her grandmother’s side. It was here that the happy accident of Roberta’s Pasta Chef Career began.
Chef Roberta Adamo went into great detail of the flour that would be used in some of our dishes. She makes all the pasta by hand forgoing a machine like even the chefs in Italy sometimes use now.
as well as explaining how she came up with this delicious desert, Dark Chocolate gelato and blood red orange sobert with a pignoli cookie. And it’s all made with Capagiro Gelato. It’s not on the regular menu, she only makes it for special occasions and I guess this was our night.
Chef Roberta Adamo is not only an expert in pasta, but her stories kept us entertained for hours. I hope that you are at the next Charity Auction when this item comes up for bid, I suggest you snap it up quickly as it’s quite a delicious experience. In fact the next event she is participating in is the Paws Chefs Dinner at the Union League in June.

Last weekend the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporations (GPTMC) hosted a LGBT press trip to show off the city’s Gayborhood and LGBT events for 2010. On Saturday night, at the Sofitel Hotel, GPTMC held a reception with Philly’s LGBT event producers to hear what is big in 2010.
A few of the LGBT scribers included Jim Colluci, Advocate writer and Frank Decaro jetted down to Philly

Photographers Natalie McDonald and Patrick Hagarty
Radio Show Personality Frank Decaro and Brittany Lynn. Mike and I were introduced to Frank’s radio show about 10 years ago on a trip thru the National Parks of Utah & Arizona, it was one of the few that came thru loud and queer, er I mean clear.
Michael Musto and Mickey Boardman. Michael just celebrated his 25th Anniversary at the Village Voice. As is his usual fashion statement he was sporting sandal with hideous dark socks. Mickey Boardman has a great column for Paper Magazine covering the nightly going on’s of NYC fashionable and outrageous.
Where have these two been, Jimmy Contreras and Matthew Vlahos. Jimmy has been running his cute shop on East Passyunk, JimmyStyle and Matt’s been killing it scooping up a client here and there and getting them the press that is needed. BTW it’s Steak Month at Union Trust and 7 other steak houses in the City. $50 a complete meal. Yum. Love Steak.
President Chris Alston and Secretary Ruby Augustus, Black Gay Pride which will occur the week of 4/18 – 4/24. It includes a week of workshops, parties and honorary dinner.
On July 10, 2010, The Gayborhood is coming out. Along the Spruce Street corridor, all the business owners, neighbors and friends from the Gayborhood will gather and declare the neighborhood open for business and pose for a photo op.
Sofitel Marketing Director and Malcom Lazin, Equality Forum. Each spring, Equality Forum presents its Global GLBT Summit. The annual Equality Forum comprises seven days of substantive programs, parties and special events — including an international focus; the International Equality Dinner at the National Constitution Center; an annual art exhibit; SundayOUT!, Pennsylvania’s largest annual GLBT street festival; and more — in collaboration with regional, national and international organizations. (Unfortunately for me it coincides with the Tribeca Film Festival and MET Gala, so I never get to enjoy the whole weeks worth of events.)
Jeff Guaracino for the Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation greets the guests. Jeff wanted the visiting guests to know that there were 10 great reasons for visitors to visit Philly in 2010. Then proceeded to introduce local folks in the know to talk about their upcoming events.
Laura Burkhardt, Publisher of not only Where Magazine, but a quarterly magazine co-produced by the Center City District, a bi-weekly newsletter and “The Where Guest Book” which is on every table of every hotel in this City. Speaking of hotel’s, Where Magazine just got the exclusive right to be the only magazine in the new Palamor Hotel at 17th & Sansom Sts.

Chuck Volz (Senior Advisor) and Fran Price (Executive Director), of the Philly Pride Parade and OutFest. Two movers and shakers who years ago saw a need for Philadelphia to have an organized productive Gay Pride Parade and went out and did it. A few years later Frannie had the brilliant idea to celebrate Coming Out Day with a Block Party, it’s grown in popularity and size ever since. Kudo’s to you both.
Bruce Yelk, NightLifeGay and Iconic Mark Segal. When I was growing up gay, I was reading about this guy from Philly participating in all kinds of civil disobedience in order to achieve equality. His contribution helped pave the way for the GLBT Community to move forward into the 21st Century. Plus he has the only gay newspaper, PGN, in town that is as indestructible as Cher & roaches.

Last Wednesday night the Black Eyed Peas rolled into town with their “The End” concert for the last concert at The Wachovia Center before it is renamed the Wells Fargo Center. Thanks to my friend Tim Graham for this shot. He was GA and stood for 5 hrs to hold his place right near the stage. For Lady Gaga he would stand for 5 days, he’s very GaGa, he’s a monster. From the stage the
Black Eyed Peas announced the After Party Sponsored By Bacardi Rum would be at Voyeur Nightclub, Philadelphia Pa.
Hosted by Voyeur Nightclub co-owner Billy Weiss & Michael Weiss, here with Taboo of Black Eyed Peas.
Tonight’s the night night
Let’s live it up
I got my money
Let’s spend it up
Chloe Sanders and Alinh Yelskaya helped kick off the party by greeting guests with their space age sexy outfits.
Noel Zayas and Aeryanah VonMoi were some of the first of over 700 party goers to arrive.
Philly Gossip Columnist Dan Gross, BuckMonkey’s Thom Cardwell and Courier Posts Tara Nunin
Deena Lois, Rocco Q102, Natalie Roseth (Works at my chiropractor’s office, Dr. Snyman [highly recommend him]), Bjorn,
The official Black Eyed Peas cocktail for the tour – The Bacardi V.I.Pea. The Bacardi V.I.Pea 2 parts Bacardi Superior
1 part Freshly squeezed lime juice
2 tsp Black Sugar (Fortnum & Mason)
1 dash egg white Garnish:
4 dried black eyed peas Preparation:
Put all ingredients into a shaker, stir until the sugar has dissolved. Fill ½ cubed ice and ½ crushed ice and shake vigorously until chilled. Double strain into a chilled or frozen coupette or cocktail glass.

Lechdro Santos, Walter Soares and João Paulo wear their sunglasses at night (& they tell me they never trip even when dancing.)
Joe McCullen, Clear Channel, Nicole Michalik, Q102, Rocco, Q102 and George Waldron (a nice guy who works out at Fusion Crosstraining with me, although he goes more.
HARD: Representation of the Security, “backstage”. Guys of this size were all over the place.
SOFT: Did I tell you I am judging the Delilah’s Exotic Dancer of the Year Contest 3/24/10, crazy eh?
Fill up my cup (Drink)
Mazal Tov (L’chaim)
Look at her dancing (Move it Move it)
Just take it off
The VIP Room Apl.De.Ap and Taboo and Mrs Billy Weiss. Julianna and Billy are expecting in early April, so Mrs. Billy Weiss was there in spirit and picture. (Fergie & Will_I_Am were on their way to Pittsburgh for the next days concert.)
Barbara Sheree has a popular dance song “Together” – 6th week on Billboard Charts, moves to #38! She will be performing at Voyeur 4/16/10; Lets paint the town
We’ll shut it down
Lets burn the roof
and then we’ll do it again
Roots drummer Questlove served as DJ. ?uestlove killed it and the dance floor was packed all night long.