The Rodin Museum Garden Bar (2151 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy.) kicked off earlier this spring. The low key seasonal pop-up serves beer, wine, craft cocktails and tasty small plates in the scenic garden Friday 4PM to 8:30pm .
Admission to the Garden Bar is free; admission to Rodin Museum is Pay What You Wish.
Leashed four-legged friends are welcome in the garden.
Janelle Burrell and her mom
Small plates are available by Constellation Culinary Group, including Whipped Ricotta, Tofu Bahn Mi, Chilled Citrus Marinated Shrimp, a Mezze Platter, Plantain Chips, and Curry House Pickles.
Nigel Richards and Nicole Cashman, Cashman & Assoc. with her family members.
Luke and Molly
Dress is whatever you fell comfortable wearing
Rodin Garden Happy Hour was really a nice vibe, it was great to catch up with old friends, chat with new people, dine outside with the beautiful skyline as a backdrop. A must go, you’ll thank me later.
Just opened in Old City the new restaurant Frame at 222 Market Street. When you first see the facade of the building it reminds you of an exclusive lounge with it’s wooden frame and large curtained window. Step inside and that vibe continues; but you’ll discover it’s really a restaurant with next level dishes and innovated cocktails with it’s tabled booths, four tops, two tops, but still maintains an intimate vibe with it’s purple hue and exposed brick walls.
The new restaurant Frame hosted an exclusive Grand Opening event featuring a bite sized menu tasting with a global fusion of flavors and influences says executive chef and Philadelphia local, Brianna Wellmon who brings her love of global cuisine and artistic presentation to the Frame menu. From “adults only” versions of foods you loved like PB&J, berbere-spiced filet mignon served in a jus of sherry and caramelized onion, and numerous vegan and gluten-free options like stuffed mushroom, a tofu dish that is a vegan spin on beef with broccoli. Most days Frame opens for dinner at 4:30pm, on Sunday’s at Noon. Frame’s late-night menu, kicks in at 10 p.m. Thursday to Saturday as the DJs start spinning.
“Frame reflects a sense of consistent change, reminiscent of the evolving city and people of Philadelphia,” said designer Jeff Low, “the intentional design reminds us that change is inevitable, how we frame ourselves and experiences is ever-changing, and that growth is meant to be discovered and celebrated amongst friends.”
Ian Paterson and Allie Volpe (my former editor at Philly.com)
Kate Rubey, and Sarah Leonard
Riley Garton, Vanessa Augello and CHase Quigley
Mike Jerrick, Good Day Fox 29, Wayne Shulick, owner, who you’ll recall had the hottest nightclub in Philly in the 00s, Denim on Walnut Street, and Breland Moore. Fox 29 Sports Anchor. Mike Jerrick and Breland Moore are about to launch a new show on Fox29 where they’ll do arts & culture stories. It’ll air every Tuesday at 6:30pm.
Jermaine Jenkins, Director of Development & Strategic Partnerships at AIA Philadelphia and Dave Silver, Co-Founder & CEO at REC Philly | Forbes 30 Under 30 – Social Impact Entrepreneur, 2021
The secret garden
Jamarcus Henderson and Ernest Owens
CBSPhilly anchors Jessica Kartalija and Janelle Burrell
Reunited and it feels so good as Carrie Nork Minelli, Parx Casino, Nicole Cashman,Cashman & Assoc., and Scott Barnes, Comcast, pose for a photo. Carrie and Scott are both alumni of Cashman & Assoc.
Head on over to Frame to chill, for the vibe, to check out the secret garden, but make reservations first. Open Table
On Saturday 50+ arts organizations from across the region participated in Arts Launch 2021 with FREE performances and activities, and a FREE finale performance by The Philadelphia Orchestra mark the momentous occasion of In Person Performances returning to Philadelphia, and the Kimmel Cultural Campus.
All day a steady stream of people made their way down the Avenue of the Arts to the Kimmel Center
Matías Tarnopolsky, president and chief executive officer of The Philadelphia Orchestra Association and Anne Ewers, Kimmel Cultural Campus president and CEO paused during the busy day to pose for us (an by us I mean you, me and all my readers). At the end of the year Anne Ewers will be retiring, and Matías Tarnopolsky will step into the role of Kimmel Cultural Campus president and CEO . Anne tells me she will still sit on the board, but is looking forward to retiring, traveling more, continue in her mentoring role, and maybe write a book. I’d read it. She was very instrumental in transforming the Kimmel Center, now Kimmel Cultural Campus, into the world class arts & cultural institute it is today.
It was really a fantastic day. People were so excited to be there. To be out. To enjoy entertainment. To return to a familiar place which has always brought joy to their lives. The new normal is quite a bit different than how we used to live, but people have adjusted. They arrived with their vaccination cards, their ID and flexibility.
They also arrived fashionable dressed I noticed, and now with the latest accessory matching or nearly matching masks. As a visual guy, I enjoyed what I saw.
From the Press Release: Kimmel Cultural Campus and The Philadelphia Orchestra are elated to raise the Campus curtains once again to the Philadelphia community. The free festival-style event will once again give life to the vibrant arts organization, celebrating diversity and creative energy after a darkening of the Avenue of the Arts. The event will encourage guests to lean into the healing power of artistic performances, mark a new chapter of unity for the Kimmel Cultural Campus and The Philadelphia Orchestra, and unite the Philadelphia community.
That model was amazing, sitting there for at least 4 hours. The artists did a great job at capturing her.
Speaking of art, muralist Frank Alston was doing a piece for Mural Arts at the Kimmel Cultural Campus
The singer from band ILL DOOTS performs in the audience
Ángel Corella, Artistic director at Philadelphia Ballet
The Nutcraker
The Philadelphia Ballet’s (they recently changed their name from the Pennsylvania Ballet, to the more appropriate Philadelphia Ballet.) Nutcracker tickets are on sale, and it’s sale. INFO HERE Performances Dec 10-31, 2021
Check out additional photos from the day at CBSPhilly
And I did this Instagram REEL as well. It’s cute video with the sights and sounds of the day. Just click to play and transport yourself into the audience…. have a great day. Let’s chitchat tomorrow. Thanks for your comments, I read all of them.
TODAY: Thursday, September 16thinternational fashion retailer Primark will officially open its doors in the famed Fashion District Philadelphia, with some exciting opening activations. Customers will be delighted by personalized rides to the event, an all-day set by DJ Neek Nyce, creative swag designed by local Philadelphia artists, and a photobooth to document the day. President of Primark U.S., Andy Stewart will join the Primark team in celebrating the accomplishment of the highly anticipated store opening.
Tuesday night was the Preview Party Night, the Philly Chit Chat team was there including moi and photographer Andre Flewellen. These are Andre’s photos from the other night. I will post mine next week with interviews of folks on the scene. It was a fashionable soiree.
IRISH FASHION RETAILER PRIMARK OPENS AT FASHION DISTRICT PHILADELPHIA ON SEPTEMBER 16TH
The value shopping destination offering Amazing Fashion at Amazing Prices to customers will be Primark’s third store in Pennsylvania, boasting 34,200 sq. ft of retail space at the bustling corner of 11th and Market Street. The new store will also create over 350 new jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Primark’s Fashion District location sits in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, in a complex that spans three city blocks across 900,000 square feet.
“We are delighted to welcome Philadelphians to our latest Northeast location in the US, where customers can shop the latest fashion trends, beauty and homeware, all with an amazing price tag” said Andy Stewart, President of Primark US. “Our Fashion District store will mark another important milestone in our ongoing expansion in the US and bringing our Amazing Fashion at Amazing Prices to more and more customers.”
I’ll be there at 11AM looking for your smiling face to photograph, especially as you leave the store with your savings. On opening day customers can look forward to exclusive swag, branded customer pedicabs and some more surprises to celebrate Primark’s arrival. See you then….
Brandywine Realty Trust and Drexel University marked the commencement of construction of 3025 JFK, the first vertical development within Schuylkill Yards – a $3.5 billion innovation neighborhood in University City – with a groundbreaking ceremony on June 24 featuring state and local dignitaries and project partners. 3025 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Philadelphia PA.
John Fry, appointed Drexel University’s 14th president in 2010 and Jerry Sweeney, CEO of Brandywine Realty Trust pose for a photo at the groundbreaking.
Dan Dirscherl ,Chris Scheiblein, Brian Eddis,
Mike Eddis, and Mike Preston
Brian Stevenson, Stevenson Advocacy LLC , Jerry Gontz, Sheet Metal Workers Local 19, Mike Preston, and Chris Scheiblein, EAP Coordinator at Allied Trades Assistance Program
Colette Pete, Chief Counsel at PhilaPort and Joyce Smith, ambassador for her historic neighborhood of East Parkside since 2009 and a member and co-founder of the Viola Street Residents Association (VSRA).
Melissa Heller and Sid Smith
Vishaan Chakraborti, Alan Greenberger, Anne Papageorge Melissa Heller, and Lori Doyle
Vicki Koch, Adam Case, Ron Becker, Senior Vice President Operations & Sustainability at Brandywine Realty Trustand Jean Sitler, Senior Vice President, Portfolio Management at Brandywine Realty Trust
Andre Flewellen – ChitChat Team Photographer (r)
According to the press release: The 570,000 square foot mixed-use building dubbed The West Tower at Schuylkill Yards will add a mix of residential rental units, life science and innovation office space, retail, and indoor/outdoor amenity spaces to the master-planned neighborhood being developed by Brandywine Realty Trust, in partnership with Drexel University.
Schuylkill Yards is recognized as an exemplary model for inclusive development, with a record-breaking $16.4 million neighborhood engagement initiative. The multi-faceted program provides working capital to small and minority-owned businesses, a trades training program to create paths to family-sustaining jobs, a local sourcing initiative to establish new procurement channels for local businesses, a Community Development Corporation (CDC) Co-Development partnership to build capacity for neighborhood organizations, and a community fund to prioritize affordable housing, education, employment and more. As part of the initiative, Brandywine engaged Mount Vernon Manor, a Community Development Corporation partner for The West Tower.
The groundbreaking of The West Tower signifies continued momentum for the Schuylkill Yards master-planned neighborhood, which will ultimately entail 4.8M square feet of life science/lab and office space, 132,000 square feet of retail, 1.9M square feet of residential and 6.5 acres of green space. Situated within both a Federal Qualified Opportunity Zone (QOZ) and a Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ), Schuylkill Yards’ location adjacent to Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station and at the gateway to University City, offers direct access to talent, transit and world-class health care and academic institutions, making it one of the most desirable life sciences clusters in the nation.
“The momentum that Brandywine Realty Trust and Drexel University continue to create with Schuylkill Yards has remained a key component to the forward trajectory of Philadelphia’s economic growth and development and further strengthens our city’s position as a life sciences industry leader,” said Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. “Following a challenging year, the groundbreaking of The West Tower at Schuylkill Yards marks a positive milestone for Philadelphia and the West Philadelphia community, and we are eager to watch as it takes shape.”
Hello ChitChatters, hope you had a good weekend. Oh my gosh, business is bounding back and I’m kinda prepared. What did I do that whole year, my office is still a mess and my camera needs to be cleaned. I had a great weekend, I photographed the opening of the most adorable hotel in Wildwood, you’re going to love it. I’ll write about my visit this week. Today I am going to review some of the events I covered this past week but haven’t posted about them here yet.
The Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest opened earlier this month along with an exciting program of appropriately-sized performances, events and exhibits at the year-round Cherry Street Pier. Wednesday Spruce Street Harbor park re opens with some exciting new food offerings. The Delaware River Waterfront Corporation (DRWC) is excited to welcome visitors back with continued socially distanced beer gardens and safe take-away food options, sit-down reservations compliant with current outdoor dining regulations, and additional measures in place to ensure that visitors can take advantage of the Summer and enjoy all that the Waterfront has to offer, comfortably and safely, from Washington Pier all the way to Race Street Pier. A perfect way to kick off summer in Philly Memorial Day Weekend. Spotted at the Blue Cross RiverRink on the Ferris Wheel Sunday night was Calum Hood, famed band member of 5SOS, no word on why he is here, but a few years back he did tweet that “Philly has pretty girls.” Anyone else see him, is he dating one of our pretty girls?
Speaking of Spruce Street Park and Cherry Street PierCharisse McGill and Lokal Artisan Foods, who serves her famous French Toast bites at both places, recently launched a new French Toast Bites Ale – a smooth and malty collab with Yards Brewing Company. Folks at the launch party told me it was so delicious, you could even smell the maple syrup before the first sip. Could it be the next Mimosa. Charisse tells me that not only can you get it at Summerfest but local Acme’s carry it as well. It’s about $13 for a 4 pack.
Andre Flewellen for HughE Dillon LLC
Earlier this year, the announcement of the launch of the Pau Hana Tiki Boat Tours set the internet on fire. Last week the Somers Point/Ocean City based company held their official launch voyage, offering boat rides, beginning at two-hours long, for up to six guests. Pau Hana is a Hawaiian phrase meaning “the time after work.” The boats will be available for sunset cruises, as well as at sunrise and in the afternoon. Guests will have the option to play their own music and bring their own food and beverages. Later on, catering packages with local food partners will be available, too.
I really appreciate the green leafy “ribbon” for the official ceremony.
At Element Philadelphia, guests will be energized with a food and beverage program that prioritizes fresh, healthy ingredients. A complimentary Rise breakfast starts the day and the Relax evening reception invites guests to unwind together in the Sky Lobby. Balanced grab-and-go meals, snacks and beverages are available from the Restore gourmet pantry, which features products from local producers. In addition, guests are invited to eat well from the comfort of their own room. With kitchens stocked with everything needed to create a home-cooked meal, Element hopes to inspire guests by introducing local culinary and nutritional voices to provide easy-to-follow recipes. These digital recipes and meal ideas, which will be accessible via in-room QR codes and in pre-arrival emails, will feature fresh, local ingredients that can be picked up at iconic neighborhood markets such as Di Bruno Brothers and Reading Terminal Market.
The Element hotel at 1441 Chestnut St. opened on last Friday, adding 460 rooms to the Center City market as Philadelphia heads into what tourism and city officials have called a summer comeback. It’s a beautiful hotel, with views of the City worth the budgeted price it cost to stay there. The rooms are spacious and have kitchenettes. The gym is well equipped and even I was inspired to start working out again. Gotta lose those pandemic pounds. It was so nice to see old friends, and business folks again. There’s a business center, a grab & go market. Head to their press release to really appreciate what they have to offer. We are truly on the way back. Chit Chat with you tomorrow.
With the conclusion of 2020, brought the end of a decade 2011 – 2020, and wouldn’t it be a good time to recap some of the best of the best parties, and events I covered over the past decade. The glamour, fun, outrageous times, the charities, the fundraisers, the night life. I yearn, as you all do for the end of the pandemic, when we will all be able to dance again. It is not lost of me of those who won’t be able to join us, and they are always on my mind and in my prayers, whether they passed away from Covid19, violence or something else. Thank you always for your support, and the support of the many businesses, charities and our communities. Looking forward to better times in the future, towards a more perfect union. – HughE
I always keep those people in my prayers whether they’ve passed from Covid, violence or other means which cut their lives short. I need to say that so I can move forward, as I was stuck for awhile wanting joy in my life. I had to really seek guidance to move forward in this space. Thanks for always supporting me and my content.
Qatar Airways Philadelphia Launch Gala
In the past decade several airlines have held fabulous parties to launch their new runs from Philadelphia. One of the more elaborate was held on Thursday, April 3, 2014, as Qatar Airways hosted the grandest of galas to celebrate the launch of their new non-stop service from Philadelphia International Airport to Doha, Qatar.
Venue: The Ritz-Carlton Food: 10 Arts PR: Cashman & Assocs. Guests: 300 invited, hospitality, scenesters, political, media
Maria Papadakis (now Konopka) was the Emcee
Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer, His Excellency, Mr. Akbar Al Baker, hosted a glamorous gala last night at the Ritz-Carlton to celebrate the launch of new, non-stop service from Philadelphia International Airport to Doha, connecting the Philadelphia region to Qatar Airways’ network of more than 130 destinations worldwide.
The red carpet was rolled out for the exclusive guest list, which included the who’s who of Philadelphia’s society, city officials, business and tourism executives, media personalities and international dignitaries.
Lauren D’Orisio, Nigel Richards, Mike Jerrick and Nicole Cashman. (Cashman & Associates handled the Pr)
Laura Burkhardt, greets a member of the Boyz II Men at the step and repeat. (A step and repeat banner ie press wall is a publicity backdrop used primarily for event photography, printed with a repeating pattern such that brand logos or emblems are visible in photographs of the individuals standing in front of it.)
Jane Golden and Hope Cohen
Erik-Newman, Mary Dougherty, Jim-Cuorato and John Saler
Jeff Guaracino, Liza-Cartmell, and Paul Z
Rina Cutler and Alan Greenberger
After a cocktail hour in 10 Arts, where white-gloved servers passed around delicious hors d’oeuvre and cocktails as guests enjoyed a cirque du soleil performance, the nearly 300 guests were led to the ballroom one floor below, for dinner, music and the program, which ended with a performance by Philly’s own Boyz II Men.
Hot, Hot, Hot Pool Party Pixs at 251 Dekalb – King of Prussia’s New Luxury Apartment Community
251 Dekalb, King of Prussia’s new upscale luxury apartment community, hosted a Heat Wave Summer Soiree on June 10, 2017.
Inspired by the vibrant vibes of South Beach, Miami, the free, open-to-the-public event centered around the community’s outdoor salt-water pool.
There was music by DJ Gun$ Garcia, specialty cocktails and lite bites served as the guest frolicked in the pool.
and mermaids too
Hunter Clark, Sim City, Mara and Casey Kunash
Rachael Caron, and Desirée Kachnovitz
Alexia Zenios, Cassie Hepler, Stephanie Engstrand, Meg Arbo and Michelle Leonard Jay,Leslie & Corinne Rothberg, and Andrew LightfootAriana Heard, Gabi Outlaw and Vicki Lake
Krissi Monae, Brittany Denehy, Kelly Moyer, Maggie Blehar, Sheela Shamisddeen, and Naimah May
Ariana Heard, Vicki & Steve Lake
251 Dekalb is located at 251 West Dekalb Pike King of Prussia, PA and is managed by Candlebrook Management Company, a reputable property management company with verified listings on http://www.rentcafe.com/. 251 Dekalb offers Studio to 3 bedroom apartments ranging in size from 543 to 1527 sq.ft. Amenities include Air Conditioner, Basketball Court, Business Center, Clubhouse, Controlled Access/Gated and more. Property is located in the 19406 ZIP code. For more details, contact our office at (610) 265-5251 251 DEKALB Apartments located at 251 West DeKalb Pike
Thanks to PCC Photographer Andre Flewellen for shooting this event.
HughE Dillon, LLC
Hired Publicity Photographer for media placements. See About for Info to Book Us.
Philly's Newest Coffee Shop & Plant Store
The Ground CPG at The Gotham
Teal Butterfly Ovarian Cancer Awareness
Teal Butterfly is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to raise awareness about the early signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer by educating the public through community events and social media campaigns
Hunter Clark, Sim City, Mara and Casey Kunash
Ariana Heard, Gabi Outlaw and Vicki Lake
Nichole Josefowicz, and Dino Scalia
Ariana Heard, Vicki & Steve Lake
