RUMOR MILL: Abbott Elementary’s Quinta Brunson hinted at Comic-Con that Philly sports fans would love what’s coming — and it looks like Citizens Bank Park is about to take the spotlight. From what I’m hearing, Abbott Elementary is filming their big “live event” next Thursday and/or Friday at the @phillies – @braves game. ⚾️⚾️
Although rehearsals and extras will be filming on Wednesday at CBP as well.
Speaking of good things, Sunday August 24, 2025, Sen. Vincent Hughes and the first lady of the 7th district Sheryl Lee Ralph will be hosting “Men in the Classroom: with Read to Succeed and The Center for Black Educator Development with appearances by William Stanford Davis best known for his role as school custodian Mr. Johnson on the popular ABC sitcom, along with Dr Tony Watlington, School Superintendent. See you Sunday!!
Remember to catch me on the Fox29 App with Drew Anderson at 10AM on Sunday, and hear about what’s coming up during the fall social season.
Another in a series of PhillyChitChat’s. Also be sure to subscribe to PhillyChitChat, at bottom of post or click HERE I will be posting more regularly now that social season is upon us….thanks
Sometimes I only catch the news when it hits the Inquirer. Last week they ran a piece about Philly getting a Rocky statue at the airport—but it was confusing. I was probably confused with my food poisoning. The article left me wondering were they moving the Sly Stallone’s statue at the top of the steps, which is on loan to us by Sly himself, to the airport.
Anyone who knows the Art Museum, knows that in 2025 there is already two Rocky statues there: the famous one at the base of the steps, and another at the top of Rocky Stairs.
I live across the street, and wrote about the second one back in December 2024, when it arrived to commemorate Rocky Month in Philly. It was supposed to be a surprise but if someone doesn’t say mums the word, I wouldn’t know not to write about it beforehand.
Sorta like this event. Had someone told me not to write about it before it happened, I wouldn’t have sent photos to CBSPhilly where it was seen by 10 million people before the Vogue photos published. BTW I was estatic to capture Rocky i this very iconic photo of the Sheryl Lee Ralph and Sen Vincent Hughes vow renewal, especially since I am a Rocky statue stan. Anywhoo back to our Rocky story…
Originally Sly’s statue at the top of the stairs, was supposed to go back in January 2025, I was told, and I wrote about it so people could hurry and get their once in a lifetime photo with it. Sure enough it disappeared on January 5.
THEN lo and behold it showed up at the top of the steps on February 13th, for the Eagles Super Bowl Celebration, which I broke on Instagram.
Today It’s still there, and it will be at the Art Museum at least through December 2026, when Rocky celebrates it’s 50th year since the movie debut.
But Mums the word I already told you too much…stay tuned.
It’s great to see the Association for Public Art finally embrace the Rocky statue. Love it or not, it’s one of the city’s biggest tourist draws—and it is real art, created by sculptor A. Thomas Schomberg.
A decade ago, after years of pushing, the Assoc of Art finally lit the statue so visitors could safely enjoy it at night. Back then, the answer to my complaints was always, “It’s not real art.”
Today’s generation of leaders understands its cultural value. Thank you!!
The Three Rocky Statues:
The Art Museum Statue, at the base of Rocky Steps, donated by Sylvester Stallone after Rocky 3 (Stefanie Farr’s article in the Inquirer does a great job at hashing out the details); the one currently at the top of the steps, personally owned by Sylvester Stallone, which he bought at auction, from SCP Auctions in 2017, for over $400,000. The 12-foot tall, 1,800-pound creation had been inside the San Diego Hall of Champions, which is now closed.
Finally the third one going to the Philadelphia airport, created by Schomberg in 2006 for his personal collection. It was stored in the Schomberg Studios in Evergreen, Colorado until it was bought by Philadelphia for $1.5 million.
BUT THERE is a Fourth One: not by Schomberg though. It’s located in Zagreb, Croatia It was made by Croatian artist Boris Staparac, it was erected in 2007.[1] Canadian director Barry Avrich made a documentary filmAmerika Idol which depicts the events that preceded the creation of the statue, as well as the ceremony of its installation. The film also features Sylvester Stallone who portrayed the character of Rocky in eight films and A. Thomas Schomberg who made the famous Rocky statue in Philadelphia.[2] (Source)
Summer season is coming to a close, and Eagles Season is taking off….
Go Birds!!
Today begins my Fall Social Season. Starting tonight I begin shooting at least two events a week for the next few weeks, this week I am actually shooting 4 events.
This fall I will be updating PhillyChitChat more regularly, continue to contribute to CBSPhilly online, and in print Philly Style Magazine and Main Line Today. New this year l will be collaborating with Fox 29 with Social Media posts, as well as posting party photos online at Philly Style Magazine.
Today let’s see what events are coming up for you to enjoy.
It seems like more than ever daytime dance parties are becoming a thing, there’s one Saturday at the Navy Yard in partnership with Vegandale. Here’s the Info
SAVE THE DATE: You’re invited to celebrate as DesignPhiladelphia turns 21! Head to Hamilton Hall, 320 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19102, for the official Kickoff Party of the 2025 DesignPhiladelphia Festival. You’ll toast to more than two decades of creativity, collaboration, and community at this high-energy evening dedicated to honoring the vibrant Philadelphia design scene—and the people like you who make it thrive.
Before I was PhillyChitChat, I was just your friendly neighborhood booster on the Fairmount CDC—our mission back then? Keep things beautiful, livable, and not Old City or East Passyunk. (Seriously, that was the vibe!) And when PCC took off, they even asked me not to hype up Fairmount—too much love, too fast. Well… over a decade later, I think it’s time you discover just how wonderful Fairmount really is. We’re talking charming streets, walkability, great eats (yes, even a Little Pete’s!), and a neighborhood that knows how to throw a party. ✨ Wednesday, August 20, 2025 | 6–8 PM 📍 Fairmount Avenue Come hang with neighbors and newcomers alike—enjoy live music, food trucks, local artists, and businesses. Free to attend, shop, and soak it all in. Food and drinks are pay-as-you-go. Fairmount’s been keeping it cool long enough. Time to let you in on the secret. 😉
🐾 Dog lovers, mark your calendars! 🐾 Friends of Rittenhouse Square and Dietz & Watson are back with Dog Days of Summer—a paw-some day in the park celebrating our four-legged friends.
Expect tail-wagging fun: dog-centric activities, giveaways for both pups and humans, free hot dogs (naturally), and plenty more surprises.
📅 Saturday, August 23 🕚 11 AM – 3 PM 📍 Rittenhouse Square
Bring your pup, bring your friends—heck, bring the whole pack. We can’t wait to see those tails wagging! 🐶🌭🎉
🎶✨ Don’t miss the final night of Opera, Deconstructed at the Rodin Garden Bar! Join us Friday, August 22 at 6:30 PM as the @operaphila Orchestra wraps up the series with a dreamy string quartet led by violinist Luigi Mazzocchi—featuring Mendelssohn, Debussy & more.
Sip a cocktail, unwind, and let the music drift through the summer night sky. 🌙🍷🎻 Also Save The Date for The 50th Anniversary of the Philadelphia Opera Gala on September 13th. First a concert then a delicious dinner at Reading Terminal. INFO Here
Events on the Waterfront This Week: The Waterfront is alive with music, art, and energy. Enjoy Cosmic Rhythms a very special Live and Local with @juliaswarrecs, @curatorfest at @cherrystreetpier, and more as fun continues to make waves.
Welcome to the Dog Days of Summer—those sweltering August afternoons and the last golden stretch before fall.
This summer was both relaxing and productive. I spent it reading, learning, and fine-tuning my craft. Even after 18 years, I’m reminded that curiosity and the drive to grow make life richer. I’d been coasting for a while, working through burnout and reintroducing myself after the pandemic pause.
Now, with America’s 250th anniversary on the horizon, I’m ready for the next chapter—documenting the decade ahead.
And yes, I’m bringing back my pre-pandemic promise: PhillyChitChat will be updated four days a week.
A few events I recently covered which have appeared on CBSPhilly, Fox29 and PCC SM Platforms.
Children with autism and developmental disabilities took to the surf alongside the Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders, team mascot Swoop, and a dedicated crew of volunteers. Each participant received a soft-top surfboard, rash guard, and life vest—ensuring safety, comfort, and pure fun from the first wave to the last.
Caught up with new drink founder Cooper “Coop” Neel at the official launch of COOP Neuro Refreshers at H&H Bookstore in Fishtown. The event brought together Philly influencers and the Punch Media PR team to spotlight both bold new flavors and a mission to raise awareness about learning disabilities.
Cooper ‘Coop’ Neel and James Zeleniak. Founder & CEO Punch Media
Guests sampled four craft beverages, with the juicy, spicy Strawberry Jalapeño—featuring rooibos—emerging as the surprise favorite. Keep an eye out for COOP Neuro Refreshers at local clubs and restaurants; they’re a great option for a flavorful, alcohol-free mocktail. Check out Coop’s interview on my Instagram.
Caroline Yosef, Kathrine Martin has assumed the President & CEOMethodist Services, and Rebecca Seidenberg
Offseids New York recently hosted a vibrant shop night in support of Methodist Services, with Stateside Vodka serving as a generous sponsor alongside an incredible lineup of raffle donors.
Joe and Ula DiGiovanni – I just had my first facial at Ula Facial Boutique in Ventnor. I’m a believer. It really made a difference in my glow, and skin tone. If you’re at the beach, I highly recommend them.
Methodist Services offers life-enriching programs for children, adults, and families navigating challenges such as limited resources, poverty, homelessness, disabilities, and inequities in education. Their work spans early childhood education, school-age programs, housing support, family services, mental health counseling, and nutrition programs—helping individuals and families build stability and thrive.
Alisa Frederico and Sabrina Tamburino Thorne
A portion of the evening’s proceeds went directly to Methodist Services, furthering their mission to provide essential resources and opportunities for those who need them most. Stay tuned for “Dancing with the Philly Stars”, a dancing event starring our neighbors and raising money for Methodist Services, on January 31, 2026.
On Tuesday, September 9th, the Moshulu will host Real Housewives of New Jersey star Margaret Joesphs for a meet-and-greet in advance of the Bite for the Fight Food Festival. In partnership with Kensington Food Company, fans will have the exclusive opportunity to meet Margaret and enjoy sparkling beverages with “Soiree,” her canned mocktail as well as light bites from the Moshulu. Bite for the Fight, organized by the Fight On Makenna Foundation, raises critical funds to support CHOP’s pediatric cancer research and family support services, making this pre-party a key event in the month’s awareness efforts.
The event will take place on the iconic Moshulu’s covered deck, with a VIP happy hour at 5:00 p.m. for media, followed by an open meet-and-greet with Margaret Josephs from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy bites and the chance to connect with the reality TV star in an intimate setting.
Joseph Tordella, Debbie Tordella and Joe Tordella – Shout out to Debbie, who told me at Night in Venice OCNJ she’s a longtime chitchat blog reader. It was nice to meet her, and see her husband and son Joe again. Thanks to the Gabriele’s for hosting another fabulous party. I just prepared the photos for the October 2025 Philly Style Magazine.
I’m off to NYC for a few days, and next week will continue to prepare for the busy fall social season.
Welcome to Unit 3102 at 10 Rittenhouse — a spectacular, nearly full-floor residence offering approximately 5,400 square feet of light-filled luxury with breathtaking views over the iconic Rittenhouse Square. This one-of-a-kind home combines the spacious feel of a modern townhome with the sophistication, service, and security of one of Philadelphia’s most prestigious addresses.
View of Rittenhouse Square and Delaware River from the south facing balcony
What makes this property truly exceptional? Let’s start with parking — a rarity in Center City. This unit comes with four garage spaces, including two ultra-rare self-park spots inside the building, plus two valet spaces. Whether you’re commuting daily or hosting guests, you’ll have the kind of flexibility most city dwellers can only dream of.
Step inside, and you’re greeted with 270-degree skyline views, framed by floor-to-ceiling glass doors and three private balconies. Every room is bathed in natural light, offering a sense of calm and openness. The sleek, modern design emphasizes clean lines and effortless flow throughout the space.
The living and entertaining areas are expansive, featuring a custom-built media wall with a 100″ TV and a hidden door to the AV closet. Nearby, a beautifully crafted bar area awaits — complete with a wine fridge, ice maker, sink, and an oversized walk-in pantry that doubles as a prep kitchen or staging space for events.
The dining area is a standout — perched at the southwest corner, it captures stunning corner-window views and is bathed in warm afternoon light. Perfectly positioned just off the gourmet kitchen, the layout is ideal for both intimate dinners and grand-scale entertaining.
The centerpiece walk-in closet, custom-designed by California Closets, is a dream—both functional and worthy of a magazine spread. Beyond the dressing room, a quiet home office space offers privacy and focus, complete with access to a private balcony that captures the gentle glow of the morning sun and sweeping city views.
The spa-inspired bath invites relaxation, featuring a jetted soaking tub with its own wall-mounted TV, separate water closet, and dual vanities. A third vanity, tucked just beyond the dressing area, provides the perfect spot for morning routines or evening glam.
Across the home, on the west wing, two additional bedroom suites are tucked beyond a cozy den, each with its own en-suite bathroom and generous closet space. Whether for guests, family, or an elegant work-from-home setup, these rooms offer flexibility and privacy.
Daily living is made seamless with two separate laundry areas—one discreetly located within the primary suite and another conveniently positioned near the kitchen. Every detail throughout the residence has been considered: automated Lutron lighting, powered sunshades and blackout drapes, and over a dozen individually zoned climate controls for year-round comfort.
At 10 Rittenhouse, you’ll enjoy the finest full-service amenities Philadelphia has to offer, including a 24/7 concierge, chauffeured town car, indoor pool, fitness center, and a private hospitality suite for your guests. The building’s discreet entrance on 18th Street places you steps from the best of Center City—world-class dining, shopping, and culture, all just outside your door.
Sheryl Lee Ralph and Senator Vincent Hughes Renew Their Vows in a Romantic Re-commitment Ceremony on July 30th by Rev. Dr. Donald D. Moore, Pastor of Mount Carmel Baptist Church (MCBC) at the Philadelphia Art Museum; 20 years to the day since they married in LA in a lavish Hollywood wedding in 2005.
In June Sheryl Lee Ralph hinted in a People magazine interview about their upcoming anniversary, and said she’d like to exchange vows on the Rocky Steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum ; she wanted to have the longest veil on those steps ever, which she did, as an 80 foot shawl.
She told People Magazine, she was always inspired by the quote on the Rocky statue “It’s not how hard you hit, it’s how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward – that’s how winning is done.”
She stepped off the bus and began walking up the steps, meeting the Senator halfway. With a princely gesture, he reached out his hand to her, kissed her, and they ascended the rest together as Diana Ross played from the speakers “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough!” (Hair by Carla Clarkson)
Twenty-two Philadanco ballerinas carried her custom shawl—designed by Perry Meek—up all 72 steps.
The couple said their own vows, which centered on the power of love as well as community, in front of guests including Al Roker, Deborah Roberts, Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania Austin Davis, and Sheryl’s sorority sisters from Delta Sigma Theta, many Philly politician’s were there including Mayor Cherelle L Parker, City Rep Jazelle Jones,Sen Anthony Williams,Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, Patty Jackson, Dyanna WilliamsJoan Myers Brown, Mack Wilds, Felicia Williams, (Event producer Hi Touch Inc. produced the event!!) Suzann Christine Henry (also sang My One and Only Love) and Newly retired Essence magazine’s Susan Taylor were among the guests who cheered and clapped when Dreamgirl Sheryl Lee Ralph and Sen Vincent Hughes reached the top of the steps. (The guest list were close friends and family.)
I’ve been a fan of Sheryl Lee Ralph since the early ’90s, when I attended the second Divas Simply Singing concert in Washington, D.C. She was one of the first entertainers to bravely use her platform to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS, and I’ll always admire her for that.
It’s been a real joy getting to know her more personally through PhillyChitChat—attending events she’s been part of here in Philadelphia, including another Divas Simply Singingconcert at The Dell. When she landed the role on Abbott Elementary, she told me it felt like something special—and she was absolutely right. She is something special.
And so is he—Senator Hughes has done so much for Philadelphia and the state. Grateful for both of them!
I got these photos wearing my other hat, a paparazzo, from across the street standing on the Washington statue platform, after I was tipped off by a reader about an hour before the ceremony. So glad to be there, it was a JOY to witness. I withheld them until after Vogue online published, except for one outlet which had already gone live before the request came in. xoxo
Here’s a video I created with these and other photos.
About 5PM July 30, I got a tip Sheryl Lee Ralph and Sen Vincent Hughes were renewing their vows on their 20th Anniversary of their wedding. My friend told me the wedding would be at 6PM sharp.
In the morning I noticed a tent going up at the top of the Rocky Stairs and thought, “Hmm… something’s happening.” So when I got a tip that Sheryl Lee Ralph and Senator Vincent Hughes were renewing their vows, I knew exactly where to be.
That photo perch? My old faithful on the Washington Monument across the street from the stairs.
I was quietly freaking out and texting two close friends who have known Sheryl and Sen Vincent Hughes as long as I have, about 14 years, they’re Philanthropic Philadelphians, the play-by-play—“Recognize this guest?” “Guess the song!” Then, cue the moment: Diana Ross’ Ain’t No Mountain High Enough blaring as Sheryl, in a stunning gown with a jaw-dropping train, walked up the Rocky Stairs. Vincent met her halfway, like Prince charming, and up they went, together. Another iconic moment on the Rocky Stairs.
I clocked the guest list, clocked the no-shows, took it all in. Then I went home, ate dinner like it was a normal Wednesday, and started sending photos to media outlets. I’m even prepping for a Fox 29 segment, my first in years since stage fright kicked in after one tiny on-air flub in 2019. But for Sheryl and Vincent? Totally worth facing the lights again. (I occasionally have done interviews, but not on a regular basis.)
Normally I would wait to appear on TV before I post a video, but I saw someone post one from inside the museum, and I thought I’d better get mine out there, but without a lot of detail. Then this happened: In a Barbara Howard dignified, firm voice:
Sheryl asked me to archive my photos because Vogue has the exclusive — and while I usually wouldn’t comply (hello, it was a very public wedding on the Rocky Stairs!), I made an exception out of respect.
Normally, I’d stand my ground — I photograph public fashion, public events, and no, I don’t need permission when it’s in a public space. But hey, it’s Sheryl. And it’s Vogue. So this time, I hit pause… temporarily.
I can’t wait to see her new ring!!
In an interview she did with Stephen Colbert last month, she told him about renewing her wedding vows on her 20th Anniversary. “I’m hoping that I get to have the longest veil in that ‘Rocky Steps’ history,” Ralph said, referring to the 72 stairs leading up to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where the 1976 boxing drama was filmed.
And a veil isn’t the only bridal accessory she wants to rock for the occasion, which has been two decades in the making. “I need a new ring too. I need all of that,” she added.
P.S. I had already sent the photos to my wire service hours before the Vogue request came in (whoops). I politely asked them to hold off, but the toothpaste was already out of the tube. What I can control? Fulfilling the flurry of photo requests that came flooding in after the fact.
Look, I’ve been in this biz long enough to know how to handle sensitive moments. But this wasn’t one of them. I was in plain sight, surrounded by tourists and guests snapping pics, with police nearby — nobody told me to stop. It was a celebration in a very public place.
And honestly? I’m just putting this on record because, well… my video had already hit 50,000 views before I hit archive.
Earlier this summer, on June 7, Gateway Plaza at FDR Park was officially unveiled, marking the first major milestone in the park’s $250 million master plan. The renovation transformed the main entrance at Broad Street and Pattison Avenue, strengthening the connection between public transit and the park.
Tim Clair, Interim Chief Executive Officer.
I attended the preview party a few days before the ribbon cutting. Key features included a new “FDR” photogenic sign, 28 shaded benches (many designed for both gatherings and fitness), motion-sensor lighting, misters, bike racks, and an ADA-accessible walkway.
Landscaping efforts added 81 native trees to replace aging ones, along with new plantings, rain gardens, and redesigned grading to improve storm water management.
Darren Fava, Parks & Recreation, Cari Feiler Bender, PR Extrodinaire – Relief Communications, Susan Slawson, Commissioner · Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, guest and Ra’Chelle Rogers, Parks & Recreation.
Thanks you so much to Parks & Recreation for painting the white grid lines in front of the Art Museum and Logan Circle, black. I mentioned to Ra’Chelle at this event of the dangerous interpretation, as tourists were mistaking them for crosswalks and then playing frogger to cross the street. Something I had tried to get correct in the Kenny administration, but to no avail. They look great and no one is crossing in the middle of the block anymore. Thanks!!
Alexandria Kelly, JB Kelly and Neil Batiancila, Philadelphia Zoo
I love to bird watch at FDR park. Their is an Eagles nest near the meadows, and a Green Heron was recently spotted in the wetlands. Very exciting to us birders.
Sixers Drum Line
Julia Fleishner and Alice Bullitt
The new gateway at FDR Park at Broad and Pattison, across from the NRG Station
John Binswanger and Janet Binswanger
‘Chelle Rogers and Anton Moore
Max and Alexis Tuttleman
Chris and Shannon Wink, with Connor Barwin, who is hosting
Make The World Better (MTWB) connects people and inspires community stewardship through the revitalization of public spaces. Guided by the belief that every community thrives when all people have access to high-quality spaces, MTWB focuses on creating safe, inclusive environments for recreation, sports, and the arts.
FDR Park has so much to offer, following them on their Instagram for a schedule of fun.
Hello everyone. Hope you are enjoying summer. I know it is so hot, and there is no relief even after the rain storms, but we have gotten some really great sunsets. This week I am house sitting, so I get to see sunsets from a different side of the building. Ahh maybe I will wake up at 5:30am Friday or Saturday and catch the sunrise from their balcony.
Last week started my summer vacation, which means I don’t have too many events scheduled to photograph. I will be re visiting events I photographed in the spring and placed in other outlets, to share here with a few BTS moments, and for us boomers BTS means Behind the Scenes. I’ve spent a some time down the shore, which was relaxing, with great family visits. I’ve spent a lot of time with friends, which is wonderful to do, and I get to see Mike more often, except he is working a lot, he loves his new position and they appreciate him and the positive changes he’s made in just a short period he’s been in this new role.
Tuesday night Mike and I hosted a few friends for a night at Flight Club (1417 Walnut) upscale entertainment concept combining food and beverage menus with dynamic tech-enabled Social Darts. It was soooo fun!! Very reasonable $17 pp for 90 minutes of play. Food and drinks were regular prices. For the 6 of us the bill was $400 plus tip. On Friday night they have a DJ pumping up the jam. The service and staff are terrific. It’s a lot of fun, I highly recommend it. We celebrated Mike’s birthday, which was the next day July 16.
Last night we went to see the Life of Pi! I never read the book, or saw the movie. Everyone has raved over it for years, as they did last night. Mike and I thought it was going to be an uplifting, musical with feathers and dancing. It was not. It was a thought provoking tale of life, choices and how to cope.
The acting was superb, there were animal characters who were puppets, and magnificent to watch. Yesterday Ensemble Arts hosted a “Master Class” with the star of the show, and the puppeteers, which was informative and entertaining. It’s at the Academy of Music through July 27th.
Nice work, Rouge! Their new streetery is compact, stylish, and lush with plants, umbrellas, and cozy tableside seating.
I visited a few weeks ago for Mike Jerrick’s birthday when his daughter’s diamond bracelet slipped through the floorboards. Staff marked the spot with red ink, and just yesterday, they told me they found it! Even better they also recovered a wedding ring lost back in 2022. Both items have been returned to their rightful owners… along with a whole lot of silverware!
Rouge is one of more than 20 restaurants that had to redesign their streeteries to comply with the City of Philadelphia’s updated outdoor dining regulations.
This looks like something fun for the kids to do during the dog days of summer next week.
Chit Chat soon, in the mean time you can find me on Instagram posting a few times a day. PhillyChitChat
The Wonders Beyond Words Gala, hosted by the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, returned in full splendor on April 4, 2025. It had been a few years since I last attended—life and scheduling conflicts got in the way—but stepping back into the grand halls of the iconic library, which has graced the city since 1894, was like revisiting a cherished chapter of a beloved book. The evening stirred up all the magic and elegance I remembered—and then some.
Susan Gould,The Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation Cobi Weissbach, Chief Strategy and Advancement Officer at the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation and Monique Moore Pryor, Esq. executive director Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation
A. Morris Williams, Jr., and Leslie Ann Miller
This annual event, held in celebration of the library’s vital role in community, honored A. Morris Williams, Jr., a longtime advocate and Emeritus Board Member. Williams’ visionary support has been essential in advancing the library’s mission and expanding its impact across Philadelphia.
Monique Moore-Pryor, President of the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation, praised Williams for his dedication and leadership, which have guided the library through pivotal moments in its history.
Karen Bassetti, Robert Heim and Lily C Bassetti
Derrick Smith and Alistair Glover
Keith Leaphart, DO, MBA, Executive Vice President (EVP) and Humana Chief Health Equity and Community Impact Officer of Jefferson Health, Donna Bullock, President and CEO of Project Home and Senator Sharif Street
Ryan Fleur, President & CEO · The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts and wife Lara Banchaero
Ballet X entertained the guests before dinner
Gala Co Chairs Barbara Sutherland and Leslie Ann Miller
Nearly 750 guests filled the main hall, and adjacent rooms. Funds raised at the gala support the Foundation’s programs, which benefit approximately 2.2 million Philadelphians annually
Ballet X entertained the guests before dinner
Spotted among the crowd included Civic and business leaders such as David and Elaine Binswanger, Michael and Anna Marie Gewirtz,Quinta Faria, Jamie Blair, Ricky Perez, Mustafa Rashed, Joe Meade, Joseph Neubauer, and Tom and Jodi Cole, Grace and Barry O’Sullivan, Sheila Hess, Michelle Tepper, Daniel Blank and Sarah Case.
