Alta Pool Makes a Splash at the Piazza

April 25, 2023 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

The Post Brothers Piazza Alta, completed at the end of 2022, with almost 700 rental units and amenities is filling up with residents. I’ve been covering the Post Brothers for a decade now, from one of their first from the ground up developments like the Goldtex building off of Vine Street.to now Piazza Alta, their crown jewel in Northern Liberties

The combination of a rooftop pool club like Aqua Foro with interconnected pools, hot tub, splash pad, fire pits, kitchens, and lounge space makes it a unique and exciting destination for people to relax, socialize, and have fun. The design concept of an urban oasis, reminiscent of ancient ruins, but with a futuristic twist, is sure to create a memorable and magical experience for visitors.

Earlier this month the Post Brothers along with Cashman & Assocs. curated a list of VIPS, influencers and special guests along with residents, to enjoy the kick off of the summer season at the new pool.

The Millers: Barri, Amanda and Madison soak up the sun.

Sharron L Cooks wearing her fabulous sunnies in a stunning, hip hugging dress.

Bran Flakezz and his girlies: Casey Corradin, Grace Nenow, Carly Manning and Bailey Witherspoon

Erin Connery, Darius Alexander and Hacina Saadi

Aqua Foro, is a stunning 25,000 square foot rooftop pool club. Like the rooftop gardens of Rome, this unexpected sky garden is simultaneously urban and ethereal. A celebration of water and wellness, Aqua Foro evokes the beauty of an ancient ruin and the thrill of a futuristic retreat with a view of a burgeoning metropolis.

Post Brothers CEOMichael Pestronk (l) and President Matthew Pestronk (c) with friends, including the architects of the pool Rolando Lopez Lopez AIA – Project Architect – DIGSAU and Jeff Goldstein, principle at DIGSAU . I had a chance to chat with them, complimenting them on what is definitely one of the best designs of all the Post Brothers epic pool resorts. I love how they mimic the skyline with architectural elements, but didn’t block the view of the skyline, or sun rise or sun set horizons so the pool goers could enjoy all the views yet enjoy a sorta sculptural garden of sorts.

Piazza Aqua Foro

Honestly you won’t need that shore house anymore, just walk out your door to your resort. Almost makes me want to sell my house and move to NoLibs Piazza Alta.

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Seen: Tools of the Trades Happy Hour

March 30, 2023 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

Leila Cartier, Executive Director, CraftNOW Philadelphia, Sharif Pendleton, LaserPhilly, Anna Solomon and Rebecca Ledbetter, NextFab

Philadelphia-based organizations Craft organization CraftNOW and makerspace NextFab have partnered again, welcoming new partner LaserPhilly, to present the second annual Tools of the Trades, a four-day hybrid conference focused on connecting artisans to business resources in Philadelphia and beyond.

The event started off on Tuesday with a breakfast meeting, before jumping into the 4 day conference, the first 3 days virtual and in person on Saturday, March 25th there were Workshops and a Networking Happy Hour at NextFab, 1800 N. American Street, Philadelphia.

Juanda Myles and Mark Coleman are excited for Philly Tech Week coming up

Paige Sato, MABEL who makes clothing, and bags out of old quilts

A few of the events offered during the 4 day conference included Creating Multiple Revenue Streams: Joy London, Project Joy Studio, and Alecia Dawn Young, YOGAMOTIF, Collaboration as Commerce: Nick Vicente, Twice Measuredand Maria Eife,Maria Eife Jewelry / JV Collective and Crowdfunding Strategy for Artisans: Katie Johnson, Bridgeway Capital’s Creative Business Accelerator, and Khai Van, Techarge excellent sources for creators, as well as entrepreneurs as well.

Matt and Deanna

EsaDiva Maven and Leanna Ambrosio

Jason Lempieri, Manhole Coasters and Lindsey Fogarasi, CraftNow

The Tools of the Trades conference schedule has three distinct tracks described below. These include ▶︎ Tools in Business, ◉ Tools for Creatives, and ❑ Tools with Contemporaries. If you missed this years conference check in periodically with Tools for Trade for next years date.

Around Town With HughE, Uncategorized

Philly Pr Girl Celebrates 10 Years!!

March 14, 2023 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

Sheila Hess, City Representative presents Kate Marlys, found of **Philly Pr Girl** with a Proclamation from the City of Philadelphia and Mayor Kenney recognizing her 10 years in business!!

Congratulations Philly PR Girl. Starting out as a WYSP on the promotional team, Kate Marlys knew how to get the word out. Friendly, outgoing, she easily made friends, and connections which would serve her later in life as she built her public relations business. Starting off as a blogger, she would write about her life of adventure, eventually sharing with the public info they wanted – where to eat, what to do, what to see; which morphed into a PR business where she could help businesses share their stories , connect with media. Many of her first clients were friends, and these days many of her friends are her clients. Congratulations Kate!! Well Done. OH forgot to mention, she also was a genius with the name of her firm. Catchy, memorable and concise.

**Rachel Perez** (Happy Birthday) and **Stephanie Algayer**

Farah Farag, Visit Philly, Andrianna Acosta, Philly PR Girl, Hector Nuñez, founder of Wooder Ice and Matthew Vogel, who is married to Farah, whose parents I went to high school with, which makes me old,..

Philly PR Girl is a full-time public relations firm for event planning, social media management, marketing, and promotions. Our company was built on the foundation of networking and relationship-building. Owner Kate Marlys has planned, facilitated and attended hundreds of networking events, resulting in a strong and dynamic network of contacts in digital, print, TV, and radio throughout the United States.

With an emphasis on organic branding and powerful online communications, our team brings winning strategies, forward-thinking implementation, and endless energy to non-profits and businesses of all sizes on both a local and national scale.

SNACKTIME Performed at Philly PR Girl’s 10th Anniversary Party at City Winery

It was great to be back at City Winery, I hadn’t been there since the beginning of the pandemic. We’re so lucky to have a major music venue like this in Center City, with food and good vibes. Plus a great event space with a stage. Check out today’s Metro Philly for more photos as well as my column in CBSPhilly. Congrats again Philly PR Girl!!

PS to my readers sorry I have been absent, social season is booming. I’m getting ready to go away for 5 days, and when I return I promise to be more consistent on this platform. Know that you can follow me on IG where I do post every 6 hours. PhillyChitChat Instagram

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Scene: Joan Shepp Women of Style and Substance

February 28, 2023 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

In honor of Black History Month, Joan Shepp hosted her annual Women of Substance & Style soiree where black women who have influenced our community’s growth and prosperity are feted. This years honorees have been selected by Cheryl Ann Wadlington, Dyana Williams, and Tuesday Gordon. Each honoree will be presented with a certificate at the event, a change to talk about their lives to a room full of friends, family, supporters and change makers.

This year Joan Shepp will be giving back to Turning Points for Children, whose mission is to strive to bring social and health services to vulnerable people across the city of Philadelphia. Annually, they serve over 17,000 individuals, including children and adults, to offer services such as foster care placement, counseling and parental education, behavioral health services, and much more.

**Christie Mandia,** Cashman & Associates, with legendary **Joan Shepp,** and Bridgett Battles, Stylist, Brand Consultant and *Director for Community Engagement and Supplier Diversity at Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health*.

As with every Joan Shepp event, the fashion was fierce!

Famed jeweler John Wind was wearing an original design by Conrad Booker, where he takes a suit jacket and strips it down to it’s inners adding thread to create this unique jacket.

**Conrad Booker** and another stylish friend

More than just a meticulously curated fashion boutique, for 50 years, Joan Shepp have provided exceptional service, exclusive designer events, and most importantly, a space for the fashion community to play, discuss, explore, and discover new designers and innovations in the industry.

SHANI NEWTON Dolly’s Boutique is one of Philadelphia’s most unique shopping experiences. Owner, Shani Newton opened the boutique named in honor of her late grandmother nearly 10 years ago. She and her staff pride themselves on providing an exceptional level of customer service. “When you come to Dolly’s, expect to be treated like royalty”, a frequent quote of Shani’s.

Shani told me that when she was younger her grandmother took her to Joan Shepp’s shopping. She enjoyed the experience, how they always had treats and champagne on hand for the customers. When she opened her store she wanted to create the same experience for her customers, and she has, as well as earning respect from her peers and the community.

In 2019, Joan Shepp introduced a new concept store, Joan Shepp Home, to enhance your space with unparalleled decor.

**Tammi Toliver** Principle Artist at Fashion Facez, getting the shot with **Colona Rberts**.

Founded in 1971 in Lafayette Hill, Joan Shepp has since been recognized as one of the country’s style leaders by publications Harper’s Bazaar and Lucky Magazine. In 1984 Joan’s daughter Ellen joined the business. Together, along with their loyal and creative staff, they have continued to share the Chemistry of Fashion. The complete list of women honored at the event

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Hard Rock Cafe Philly Celebrates 25th Anniversary

February 21, 2023 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

It has been 25 years since the rock memorabilia and live music-driven Hard Rock Café dropped anchor in Center City Philadelphia. The Philly Hard Rock, at 1113 Market Street, since that time, has become a totem for conventioneers, tourists, office workers, and locals alike looking for big burgers, tall cocktails, live music and memorabilia from The Who, the Rolling Stones and more.

**Brett Silver** and **Brittney Chappell.**

**Uneeka Jay,** Founder of Rewrite 365 LLC and **Elijih Crawford**, Co Founder & Director At Ugly Art Films

**Laura Burkhardt,** Executive Director of Avenue of the Arts, **Kyle Cuffie-Scott,** owner of **Darnell’s Cakes** just did a pop up cafe at Philadelphia Museum of Art, but you can enjoy his tasty delights at his cafe 444 N 3rd Street, (he tells me there’s another pop up in a few weeks) and **Jermaine Jenkins,** Director of Development & Strategic Partnerships AIA Partnerships

**Dani Reaves** (still glowing from her trip to Paris in November) and **Rashidah Cornitcher,** CEO and founder of Ultimate Vision Sports Management.

Kevin Spence, Cinematographer ( Just returned from NYFW and **spotted great street fashion**) (I sure miss shooting NYFW myself) and Tiffany Laibhen-Spence, wife + mommy and content creator. The happily married duo has some life advice for you at **BET**.

Sheila Hess, City Representative and the team from Hard Rock Cafe

Alison and Mike Dalewitz owners of Borscht Belt Deli in Stockton

To celebrate, the group Boyz II Men performed at the anniversary show on Wednesday, February 8. The group’s four-time Grammy Award winners are one of the most iconic R&B groups in history, had the ladies, and a few men swooning when they handing out red roses to the crowd when they sang “I’ll Make Love To You.”

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Scene: Rivers Rewind back to the ’80s

January 3, 2023 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

Happy Happy New Year!! What a great time I had at Rivers Casino the other night at their New Year’s Eve Eighties Rewind party.

The sold out crowd enjoyed an open bar, small bites, and live music including a performance by **The Spazmatics,** The Ultimate 80s Tribute.

Marty McFly and Doc Brown greeted the guests as they arrived at the event center.

Guests met the expectations and wore their 80s finest to fit the theme

The Rivers Casino crew handing out mini Rubik Cubes, fun 80s glasses and tshirt swag

New Year Wishes: Every end marks a *new* beginning.

May the new year bring you peace, joy, and happiness.

“You do not become good by trying to be good, but by finding the goodness that is already within you.” —Eckhart Tolle

“With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” —Eleanor Roosevelt

“Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.” —Carl Bard

May you have good health, lots of happiness, and a great New Year.

Dominique Frio, GM of Catering & Sales Rivers Casino Philadelphia, Justin Moore, General Manager at Rivers Casino Philadelphia · Rush Street Gaming, LLC , Jeff and Maddswar prepare the bubbly for the guests

Here’s hoping you make the most of 2023!

Each year I spend with you is the best one yet! Here’s to making more memories in 2023. Thank You!!
I’m so excited for our future.

Head to Rivers Casino to see what’s happening in January and meet me next Saturday at the Event Center to enjoy a night with En Vogue!! Get Tickets HERE!!

The Legendary group En Vogue is coming to Rivers Casino Philadelphia for an unforgettable concert!

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Garces Trading Company Open

September 27, 2022 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

James Beard Award Winner Chef Jose Garces returned to one of his most beloved restaurant and hospitality concepts. Garces Trading Company (GTC) opened earlier this month as a collection of casual cafes that are part coffee shop, restaurant, bakery, marketplace, wine shop and corporate catering solution. The first new brick-and-mortar Garces Trading Company location debuted in Philadelphia in at Cira Centre (2929 Arch Street), just steps from 30th Street Station and situated at the gateway to the Schuylkill Yards neighborhood.

Emily Crotty, Emily Knitter, George Johnsotne and Laura Miller all of Brandywine Realty Trust

Sam McGarvey and Danielle Autieri is excited to enjoy pumpkin muffins again. It’s just something that is more special when it’s autumn.

My question of the evening was what did the guests do to usher in the fall, even if the temperatures are still summer.

Chelsea Logan doesn’t like pumpkin anything, but Penny Cosell is all about the pumpkins – spice, candles and she even has pumpkin towels.

Mimi Wong, Marel Reulan, Malena Carey and Vince Carey

“Garces Trading Company is really special to me,” said Chef Jose Garces. “The concept is centered around an exchange of cultures that neighbors, friends, family members, coworkers and commuters can explore and connect over new dishes and flavors. Garces Trading Company is truly an outpost for foodies that incorporates discovery and connections – and I am excited to bring new life back to the GTC idea but in an all new way.”

Stephanie Perez, Alexis Hilinkski and Lily Cope all of Garces

Kory Aversa, Aversa PR greets the guests.

Kory has been busy opening up lots of fun Garces concepts, new and re visited ones. Today there’s another one… Buena Onda will open TODAY at 200 Radnor Chester Road, Suite 226 in Radnor with 2,000 square feet of space that includes 46 seats inside and six seats outside.

Afew Tucker and Jennifer Lynn Robinson, who writes for The City Pulse. She covered the Philadelphia Polo Classic the other day, by picking the fashion standouts. I love a good column like that…. **CHECK IT OUT HERE!!**

Main Line Today, Uncategorized

Save The Date: Best of the Main Line Party

July 13, 2022 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

And it’s back : Main Line Today and Today Media announce the grand return of the Best of the Main Line and Western Suburbs Party on Thursday, July 28th, at Drexelbrook Special Event Center (4700 Drexelbrook Drive).

Eat, drink and dance the night away while celebrating the 2022 winners that include top restaurants, bars, retail shops, small businesses and people of the region as voted by the people and the critics. This year’s event will feature over 50 top businesses and special guests.

There will be food samples, as well as cocktails and beer to enjoy

From 5:30pm to 9:00pm, guests will sample fabulous food and drink from this year’s winners, dance to live music from the award-winning band Jellyroll, and participate in a silent auction to benefit Brandywine SPCA. (Tickets)

Many of the Best of Mainline Winners will be on hand to show you why they were chosen.

Main Line Today and Today Media thank this year’s sponsors, including Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Fox & Roach, REALTORS /The Trident Group/Prosperity (Melissa Cunningham); Exton Dental Health Group; Pinnacle ENT, LLC; Republic Bank; Roots Landscaping; Fleming’s Steakhouse & Wine Bar; Main Line Chamber of Commerce; and Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. We’re also thrilled to be partnering with Drexelbrook, Aversa PR & Events, BVTLive!, Pictures by Todd and Valley Creek Productions.

Main Line Today proudly announced this year’s beneficiary for the event, which is Brandywine SPCA. Guests will be invited to support the organization, meet the staff and some adoptables, and bid on the silent auction that will go to fund the group’s critical animal welfare and rescue work. Founded in 1929, the Brandywine Valley SPCA exists to end animal suffering and to involve the entire community in the welfare and well-being of animals.mission is to put the “human” back in humane animal treatment and advocate on their behalf. Our vision is to be the recognized leader in animal welfare that empowers communities to treat life with respect and dignity. Donations can also be made direct at: https://bvspca.org/donate/

“The party of the year is back on the Main Line,” said Main Line Today Associate Publisher Marie Edwards. “Celebrate this unforgettable evening of bites, drinks and dancing – and get ready to toast the best of the best! We are thrilled to be back inside the ballroom with an exciting and diverse line-up of winners that include the region’s best restaurants, bars, boutiques and so much more. This event is truly a celebration of the top quality businesses and people that make the Main Line and Western Suburbs special. We can’t wait to see everyone again. Come with your dancing shoes ready to party!”

Around Town With HughE

Nbeauty Inc Hair, Skin & Body Spa Ardmore

June 26, 2022 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

Naeemah Johnson a licensed cosmetologist known for setting trends and styling tresses since the tender age of 17 celebrated her first year in business with a cocktail reception at her Ardmore Salon and Spa , Nbeauty INC Hair Skin Body. Naeemah also has a place in Philly at 3933 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19132

Guests enjoyed lite bites and cocktails as technicians demonstrated the NBeauty brand signature hair and skin care product line.

Jada Kent; Alexis Campbell; Naaemah Johnson; and Anisa Johnson

Johnson’s work has been published in numerous trade and hair magazines. She’s been interviewed for expert advice for national networks like BET.

The full-service salon and spa have expert cosmetologists and estheticians on staff that specialize in advanced skin treatments, extensions, hair and lash extensions, and hair coloring and styling.

Nbeauty INC Hair Skin Body. Stop by and pay us a visit at, 3933 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19132. or 6 Greenfield Ave. Ardmore , PA 19003 Thanks Talya Hailey for shooting this event.

Charity Gala, Uncategorized

Mission Possible 2022 Gala!

May 18, 2022 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center hosted it’s annual fundraising gala, Mission Possible! 2022 on April 28 th . A sold-out crowd, of more than 300 guests, is expected to raise awareness of child abuse and support the organization’s mission of achieving healing and justice for child victims.

The event was held in April, which is also National Child Abuse Prevention Month, an annual observance to raise awareness for the importance of preventing and reporting child abuse.

Jimmy Wayne, a former foster kid turned award-winning country recording artist whose songs and story highlight his mission to raise awareness for children in foster care.

This year’s entertainment and featured guest speaker was Jimmy Wayne,
a former foster kid turned award-winning country recording artist whose songs and story highlight his
mission to raise awareness for children in foster care.

Congratulations to our Event Honorees, Trish Gorman and Garrett Snider, who were recognized for their years of dedication, volunteer service, and leadership at Mission Kids!

Barbara Vetri (her daughter Risa Vetri Ferman co-dounded Mission Kids) ,, Abbie R. *Newman*, *R.N*,Â J.D, Chief Executive Officer of Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center, Pat Ciarrocchi and David Fineman

Donna Coghlan, Nigel Richards and Nicole Cashman, Cashman & Associates

Philadelphia Councilmember **Cherelle L. Parker** and **Aren Platt,** Board Member Broad Street Ministry

Thank you to our Host Committee Honorary Co-Chairs, Meredith L. Seigle and Robert Mongeluzzi, as well as our Event Co-Chairs Pauline & David LeVan and Marianne Dean, our Emcee, Jeff Hammond and our entire Host Committee for their hard work the past several months and dedication to making this event so successful!