Last night at Lincoln Financial Field, First Tee Philadelphia brought together sports fans, civic leaders, and supporters for a meaningful evening celebrating two Philadelphia icons, Mike Quick and Merrill Reese at “Links at the Linc”. Both honorees are longtime partners on 94.1 WIP broadcasts and have worked together for nearly 30 years. Mike has been involved with First Tee for awhile, I remember shooting him at another event with them the first time about 12 years ago.
The setting was classic Philly. Cocktail hour energy inside the Linc, with guests mixing, reminiscing, and, in true First Tee fashion, even getting a chance to swing a club in a space better known for touchdowns than tee shots.
Normally not something you could do, but officials were testing out a new turf to be used for the upcoming Fifa games scheduled to start in June, so they had a field that was not for football.
First Tee Philadelphia goes far beyond the game itself. It uses golf as a way to build confidence, discipline, and resilience in young people.
Dave Sheilds, First Tee and Charles Pizzi, Board member of Independence Blue Cross
The program reaches tens of thousands of kids across the region, many gaining access to opportunities they might never have otherwise experienced.
Ashley Scudder, Tyler Scudder and Adriana Holt
Events like this work because they hit both notes. There is nostalgia and celebrity, yes. But there is also a clear reminder of why everyone is there.
Zoe Sky, Skylar Crutchfield and Tai Crutchfield
You could feel it in the room. Conversations were not just about the past, but about investing in the next generation.
And in a city that loves its sports heroes, honoring figures like Quick and Reese while lifting up young people felt exactly right.
Another fantastic event with a wonderful organization that makes a difference!!
Mitchell Kaplan, partner at Zarwin Baum working there his entire career (wow) and Loree D. Jones – Brown. Chief Executive Officer of Philabundence
On Thursday, March 19, 2026, the Crystal Tea Room was once again transformed into Philadelphia’s ultimate “man cave” and networking hub. Hosted by Zarwin Baum DeVito Kaplan Schaer Toddy, P.C., the event brought together over 2,000 of the city’s top power players—from CEOs and politicians to media personalities—all for the benefit of Philabundance.
The energy was electric as the first round of the NCAA Tournament tipped off. Guests were surrounded by massive projection screens showing every buzzer-beater in real-time.
Alex Bottos, General Manager of the Sporting Club. Every year they donate a membership for the auction, which helps raise funds for Philabundence.
Between games, attendees hit the pop-a-shot machines or bid on high-end sports memorabilia in the silent auction.
Eric Shelmire, Rile Hamon, Dean Rothschild
Samantha Newell, Director of Firm Engagement at Zarwin and her team helped the annual event run smoothly, which is no easy feat with over 1200 guests stopping by.
Philadelphia’s culinary scene was on full display. The spread featured local favorites ranging from classic Philly cheesesteaks and soft pretzels to gourmet catering, keeping the crowd fueled through 7 hours of non-stop basketball.
Olivia Rae, Svetlana Burbige
Ted Schaer, Zarwin Baum and Councilperson Jeffrey Young
While the hoops were the draw, the heart of the event remained its charitable impact. This year’s fundraiser added significantly to the firm’s running total for Philabundance, helping to provide thousands of meals to families across the Delaware Valley.
With Philadelphia also serving as a host city for the 2026 tournament, the local excitement was at an all-time high.
Amir Khan, Dave Moody, Anthony J.
Tamika McPhal, Kim Hall Jackson (Philabundance)
Beyond the brackets and buzzer-beaters, Zarwin Baum’s March Madness party is where Philly shows its heart. What started as a premier networking night has become a serious force for good, turning all that game-day energy into real support for the community.
Through their ongoing commitment to Philabundance, Zarwin Baum DeVito Kaplan Schaer Toddy makes sure the wins don’t stop at the final score. While everyone’s cheering the tournament, they’re helping thousands of neighbors put meals on the table. In this town, the biggest victories don’t happen on the court… they happen right here at home..
Today’s the last day you’ll be able to get a Rocky selfie at this location as the statue is moving inside for an exhibition for 6 months. The one at the top of the steps will remain outside for your enjoyment.
It’s back, Philadelphia’s longest-running and most beloved dining event is back and marking a major anniversary! Action Wellness presents the 35th Annual Dining Out for Life® on Thursday, April 24, 2025, featuring over 40 participating restaurants. I remember going to the first one, where only a handful of restaurants participated, but the following year it was a Citywide celebration, with a lot of support.
Philadelphia’s longest-running and most beloved dining event is back and marking a major anniversary!
Action Wellness presents the 35th Annual Dining Out for Life® on Thursday, April 24, 2025, featuring over 40 participating restaurants.
For 2025, this year’s restaurant line-up reads like a who’s who of the region’s most award-winning restaurants, with notable names such as Barclay Prime, Bistro Romano, Buddakan, Butcher and Singer, DaVinci & Yu, El Vez, Frankford Hall, Gilda, Giorgio on Pine,Good Dog Bar, LMNO, The Love, Mamajuana Cafe, Morimoto, P’unk Burger, P.J. Clarke’s, Parc, Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti, Sophie’s BBQ, Stina, Talula’s Garden, Taqueria Amor, The Continental Midtown, The Dandelion, Villa Di Roma, Wilder and many more. Hours vary by restaurant. Reservations are encouraged in advance.
“My favorite part of the event is the community aspect and simplicity of it,” said Action Wellness Development Coordinator Kevin Vuernick. “I have made it a point to dine out during this event for as long as I can remember. Inevitably you always see a longtime friend or acquaintance who is also dining out to support the cause. Going out to eat is something so many of us do regularly without thinking about it. The hardest part for me is deciding where to eat! The decision about whether to go to an old familiar haunt or go to one of the wonderful new places or somewhere I have yet to try is always the most difficult. But each year the one thing I know is it is always so rewarding.”
Funds raised from Dining Out For Life (DOFL) Philadelphia go to Action Wellness to support more than 2,000 clients and their families through the provision of life-sustaining services. HIV and its impact is felt especially by those in low-income and historically marginalized communities. According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health there are 18,000 people living with HIV in Philadelphia.
For a full list of restaurants or to make an advance donation, visit diningoutforlife dot com/Philadelphia. Watch for updates by following on social media at @DineOut4LifePHL and share your meal using #DOFL2025 #DineOutEndHIV.
The inaugural Philadelphia Montessori Charter School (PMCS ) “Montessori Moves” was held on March 8th at Vie. Over $100,000 was raised to support the Philadelphia Montessori Charter School. Think Philly dancing with the stars-style event where 8 philanthropic/business leaders showed off their best moves!
Amanda Wilson (Ex Dir of Montessori Charter School of Philadelphia) and Carmelina Berardi (winner raising most money raise $24,000 )
PMCS excels at providing children in Kindergarten through 4th grade with a Montessori education in an environment that nurtures the whole child, celebrates inclusion, embraces innovation, and encourages collaboration with families. Carmelina Berardi won top fundraiser and Stefanie McCarthy and Gretchen Ralston tied for best dance!
Laura and Justin Stefanick
Nick and Kristen Pantaleo
Tali Shani Ben-david makes her moves
Natelie Jackson and Stephanie Williams
Laurie Trongone, Camille Doherty, Andrea Ronca and Amy Ritter
Dominique Yannuzzi, Anna Iuliano, Liliana Dicicco and Carmelina Berardi
Dana Fiumara,, Jason Manus and Jill Longstreth
Ryan and Kate Banks
Jalen Millevoix and Avi Ben David
Julie Lynn and Jennifer Sherlock
Jen chose bachata as I’ve always wanted to learn this sensual style dance. “Thanks to @stormballroomdancecentre for everything they showed me including a sense of community.” She raised over $4,000 for the kids.
Serena Saunders, Ahyana King and Michelle Hamilton
Carmelina Berardi: “Wow, what a magical night! Thank you so much to everyone who supported me by donating money and attending the event! With your help, I was able to raise $24,000 for @pmcs2227 and learn some new moves too! Thank you to my instructor @eric_groysman@vibe_dancesport and to @lynsie.feinberg for putting together such an amazing event! Special thank you to the best cheering squad ever, my @shopskirt girls and my friends and family who are always there to support me, Grazie di cuore 💗”
Action Wellness proudly presents the return of Black-Tie GayBINGO! on Saturday, March 22, 2025, starting at 6:30pm, at the Loews Philadelphia’s Regency Ballroom (1200 Market Street).
Now in its 26th year, Black-Tie GayBINGO! rolls out the glitz and glamour as it continues to raise significant funds for live-saving programs to help those with HIV disease.
This year’s event holds special significance as AIDS Fund, the original creator of GayBINGO!, will be honored for over 35 years of leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS and for establishing one of Philadelphia’s most iconic fundraising events.
After passing the torch in late 2024, Action Wellness now takes the helm, ensuring the legacy of GayBINGO! continues to thrive for years to come.
For this year’s grand return, guests will enjoy a fun-filled evening with:
* Welcome reception and cocktails
* Silent auction
* Seated dinner with exclusive menu
* Dancing and music
* Musical performance numbers
* GayBINGO! and the famous Bingo Verifying Divas
* Community Award honoring AIDS Fund
“Black-Tie GayBINGO! is an event full of joy, affirmation and love,” said Action Wellness Executive Executive Director Mary Evelyn Torres. “It’s an opportunity to raise money and awareness about ending the HIV epidemic. This is our first year as an organization hosting the event and we are proud to honor AIDS Fund, an organization, like Action Wellness, that has done incredible work while positively impacting the lives of people with HIV over the last 30 years. Please join us for a night of dining, dancing and GayBINGO! with the incredible Bingo Verifying Divas.”
GayBINGO! is the fabulous, irreverent, campy and wildly popular monthly event that has been entertaining Philadelphia audiences for nearly 30 years. The “Best of Philly” award-winning event went on to host tens of thousands of people, attract sold out crowds, garner national attention, and raise millions of dollars.
Guests will enjoy a special cocktail reception, seated dinner with exclusive menu just for the event, music and dancing, and of course rounds of GayBINGO! The Bingo Verifying Divas will of course be on hand and please come ready with the compliments, as they will be looking more glamorous than ever! Two long-time fan favorites and GayBINGO! icons will be on hand to preside over the evening’s festivities. Carlota Ttendant will host the BINGO games, and Stella D’Oro will serve as hostess of the awards and program.
During the night, guests can help raise additional funds through a silent auction featuring gift cards, prizes and packages from local restaurants, hotels, music venues, museums and local small businesses.
Action Wellness will honor AIDS Fund with the 2025 Black-Tie GayBINGO! Community Award for their work in starting the event and for their work for the Philadelphia community. Former Executive Director Robb Reichard will accept on behalf of AIDS Fund, along with former staff and board members. In December 2024, AIDS Fund announced their decision to conclude operations.
“Founded at the height of the AIDS epidemic, AIDS Fund had been a steadfast force in addressing the challenges of HIV,” said Torres. “After 35 years of dedicated service, AIDS Fund concluded operations in December of 2024. This marked the end of an extraordinary chapter in the fight against HIV in Philadelphia – a chapter defined by resilience, compassion and community driven progress. Their work has been instrumental in raising awareness, supporting individuals and families, and funding critical services during times of crisis.”
GayBINGO! and Black-Tie GayBINGO! have raised over $4M to date and counting. Contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
SAVE THE DATE: Black-Tie GayBINGO! on Saturday, March 22, 2025, starting at 6:30pm, at the Loews Philadelphia’s Regency Ballroom (1200 Market Street).
Monthly GayBingo will continue from April to June, before taking a break for the summer season. Events will be held at Congregation Rodeph Shalom, located at 615 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA.
On Friday, October 25, 2024, the Philadelphia Ballet marked a significant milestone with its 60th Anniversary Gala performance and dinner.
Co Chairs of the Gala Sarah Marshall and Lloyd Freeman. A spectacular event, sold out and a success in raising critical funds for the company.
The one-night event celebrated the company’s history, achievements, and future. Chaired by Philadelphia Ballet Trustees Sarah Marshall and Lloyd Freeman, the gala also served as a fundraising opportunity to support the company’s performances and community initiatives.
The evening started with a pre-performance reception at the Academy of Music.
John and Jane Fischer, Bernadette and Russell Casey
Caroline Slota and John Sherman
Brandon Woods and Ashley Mariana
Congratulations to Phila Ballet Principal Dancers: Sterling Baca and Scarlett Suemez who were married a few days later!! Here with always stylish Rita Rome.
Nydia Han and Dennis Reilly
Brandon Woods and Ashley Mariana
Jessica Mathelier and Danielle Bourgeon, whose favorite quote is: “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” ~Colin Powell
Guests enjoyed a spectacular program Angel Corella,The Ruth and A. Morris Williams, Jr. Artistic Director, has created of ballet excerpts that showcases the artists of Philadelphia Ballet, Philadelphia Ballet II, School of Philadelphia Ballet, and Philadelphia Ballet Orchestra led by Beatrice Jona Affron, The Louise and Alan Reed Music Director.
After the performance the promenade took place as guests made their way from the Academy of Music to The Union League for dinner.
Beautiful art work The Heart of The Philadelphia Ballet by Perry Milou was on auction
Philadelphia Ballet Dance5rs Charlotte Erickson, Ashlee Lewis and Gabriel Lukasit
Diane Dalto Woosnam and Richard Woosnam
Beverly Deavens and Gregory E. Deavens President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross
Philadelphia Ballet artistic director Angel Corella and Shelly Power, Executive Director
Boyds, Philadelphia’s top clothing store established in 1938, is recognized as a family-owned business that has dressed the well-heeled in the area for nearly 90 years, is also well known for it’s philanthropic endeavors.
Andrew Gushner, Boyds Philadelphia and Kent Gushner, President at Boyds Philadelphia, third and fourth generation family members.
Last night Boyds in Center City hosted a charity shopping event to support the upcoming Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, which is happening at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on November 14th.
Aly Green, Niki Ikahihifo-Bender Mailata, Danielle Wolfrom and Emily Rothrock
The craft show is the largest individual fundraiser for the Philadelphia Museum of Art, contributing over $11 million to the institution. These funds help support educational programs, special exhibitions, conservation projects, the acquisition of craft items for displays, and various other initiatives.
Susan Zelouf, Anita Lockhart, Ellen Simon and Nancy C. O’Meara – Director and Craft Show Manager
Now in its 48th year, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show features unique, one-of-a-kind works by artists from across the United States. The 2024 Show will welcome a total of 195 talented artists representing 13 diverse categories of art and design plus 24 guest artists from Italy.
Mark Singer and Barbara Podell, Esq. 30 years ago, Barbara and I worked at the same law firm, when I was a paralegal. She’s on the PMA Craft Show Committee.
Bentley A. Hollander * i love his LinkedIn profile “Free as a bird at Retired and enjoying time with family” and Clara Hollander, co-founder of CraftNOW
Ramonita Farnesi, when not riding roller coasters, she and Greg Seitter, can be found at Boyds where they are top Stylist & Personal Shoppers
Boydsoffers complimentary alterations and basic re-alterations for up to one year on all full-price ready-to-wear as well as complimentary parking on site. Two locations: 1818 Chestnut Street Phila, Pa and 201 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne Pa
Kris Christensen, Lois Haggarty and Liddy Lindsey, artist & author. She wrote a fav book I enjoy Opera A- Z, which was very helpful.
Larry and Harriet Weiss
10 percent of each purchase went towards the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show. These scarves are perfect to wear to the 48th Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show preview party on November 14, or the show which continues that weekend November 15th through November 17. Hope to see you there!!
Bryna Berman and Elisa ShulickIlene Berman, Steve B., Jill Goldwater, Andy GoldwaterSean Wolf, Holly B.Jacobs and Alex ShtraksJulia & EJ Smith
Zach Berman covers the Philadelphia Eagles for PHLY, where he co-hosts a daily online show and leads the written coverage of the team.
Berman spent four seasons covering the Eagles for The Athletic and seven seasons as the Eagles beat writer for The Philadelphia Inquirer. He wrote the 2018 book, UNDERDOGS: The Philadelphia Eagles’ Emotional Road to Super Bowl Victory.
Boyds is a fourth generation, family-owned luxury retailer. Since 1938, providing clients with luxury fashion and experiences that aim to enhance our modern relevance while keeping traditions alive. They offer a diverse assortment of luxury women’s and men’s ready-to-wear and accessories, from over 250 designers across the world, driving connection to the evolving generations. Shop in their Center City store or stop by their Wayne store. Both have parking. It’s a great event space as well.
Melissa & Josh Strauss, Max & Raven FrankelCorie Moskow, and Maggie CorradoBryna Berman, Robin Robbins, Debbie Schwab, and Susan LipsonSusan Schwartz, and Gail Norry
The Ball on the Square is returning this fall to Rittenhouse Square on September 26th. The Ball on the Square is the Friend’s largest fundraiser of the year and is a truly unique opportunity to enjoy an evening in with friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues in Rittenhouse, all while ensuring its continued care and maintenance of the beautiful square for the years to come.
Returning this year for the first time since 2019, The Soirée on the Square will be returning on September 27, the night after the Ball. The Soirée is an opportunity to enjoy an evening of cocktails, small bites, a band, and a DJ who will provide an exciting environment for dancing and socializing – all in support of the Friends of Rittenhouse Square. Last week supporters and committee members gathered at the Fitler Club to celebrate the upcoming fundraising effort. Tickets start at $250.00
Bruce Bohnri, Laura LaRosa, Board President of Friends of Rittenhouse Square, Erica Marting and June Armstrong, executive director of the Friends of Rittenhouse Square
Rachel Pritzker and Jennifer Rossiter
Chuck Peruto, Vince Peruto, Lindsay Furman-Alexander, Director of Development- Friends of Rittenhouse Square Org. (a non-profit organization), Silver Brahin and Pia Arellano
Megan Nicoletti Walsh, co-chair of 2024 Soiree on the Square and Mark Nicoletti, sponsor of Ball on the Square
Peter Watson, Elina Pargamanik and Sandra Hazeltine
DJ Smooth
Daniel Grobman, owner and chef Mike’s BBQ and Matt Cooke
Emre Kara and Bora Ozkan
Pex Arellano and Matt Fingerman, Senior Vice President and Team Leader for BNY Wealth
REMINDER: Surround yourself with like-minded people. Life is the ultimate team sport. Connection helps us to stay the course and this takes a village. – Pex Arellano
Taylor Schwartz, Sam Schwartz and Christina Mitchell
This cocktail-attire event is a unique and exciting way to spend a Friday night in Rittenhouse Square with all proceeds going towards supporting our mission. Hope to see you there!!
Let the Fall Social Season Begin: Last night I attended two events. Global Philadelphia’s 2024 World Heritage City Celebration at the Crystal Tea Room, which I will write about next week, and The Good Gala at Union Trust. Both events were Finley Catering spaces.
Established in Philadelphia in 2019, Friends for Good (FFG) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) social philanthropic organization bringing together young professionals with a commitment to community service.
Laila Imam, Dayna Sobanko and Michele Voltz
Supporting and assisting unhoused individuals around Philadelphia has been one of our important areas of focus since 2019. Providing access to food security, clothing and mental health assistance has been something we’ve been proud to provide our partners with – Friends for Good
Doug Foulkes of Bazaarvoice and Joanna Joye
Vanya Sax, Frank Criniti, DJ Smooth and Michael Wynne – Smooth Entertainment
Eric Visnov and Hannah Krupa, ChitChat “It Girl “One To Watch” 10 years ago, Hannah is now pursuing her dreams in NYC, but stopped by last nights gala to sing a few songs for the worthy cause.
Alexandra Hussain and Cassidy Sheppard
Vanya Sax doing his thingLisa Washington, Samaya Brown, Nyashe Felder and Teneasha Billingsley
Ali Volpe and Mina Massaro, MD.
Mike Giangiordano, Helen Liu Gerhad and Alexandira BilderBrooke Storms, and Peter Mastrogiacomo , his company Graysonky was a sponsor the event, Zuna and Scott Cohen, both couples are long time PhillyChitChat readers. It was so nice to be out and about and see everyone again.The Fords: Janine, Wayne and Ryan. Ryan is the Director, Marketing and Operations at Warrington Country Club. I’ve photographed a few events at his scenic venue.Friends for Good: The Good Gala was formal cocktail attire and attended by over 300 people.
If you didn’t see your photo here, you might see it in the November issue of Philly Style Magazine.
