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HughE Around Town

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Rivers Casino December Happenings, and The Eagles Sing a Long

December 6, 2022 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

It’s December, how did that happen? What a great year, started off iffy, and ended up strong. Thanks so much to my advertiser Rivers Casino Philadelphia for coming on board this year, trusting us to get out the word on all the fun they provide, entertainment, philanthropically, fireworks on Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day and here we are planning for what we’re going to do on New Year’s Eve!!

At Rivers Casino Philadelphia they’re not waiting till New Years Eve to start the party! Starting December 30th they’re offering great entertainment! Whether you’re checking out the headliners in The Event Center or the free shows at Jack’s Bar + Grill, your New Years plans are taken care of all weekend long at Rivers Casino Philadelphia!

Ring in the New Year at Rivers Casino with an open bar, small bites, and live music!

Morris Day and The Time — Friday, Dec. 30, at 8 p.m.

Ring in the New Year with Morris Day and The Time. Morris Day burst onto the public scene with the group’s self-titled album, “The Time,” which included “Get It Up,” “Cool,” and “Girl.” Soon after the world was introduced to the prolific Minneapolis music marvel, the group went on to record three more albums, including “What Time Is It?” (Featuring the hits “777-9311,” “Wild and Loose,” “Walk,” and “Gigolos Get Lonely Too”) and “Ice Cream Castle” (which included the hit “Jungle Love”). Tickets are on sale now starting at $59.

The Spazmatics — Saturday, Dec. 31, at 10 p.m.

Celebrate New Year’s with Rivers Casino and The Spazmatics! Internationally renowned as “The Ultimate ’80s New Wave Tribute,” the Spazmatics come with all the awesome sounds, styles, and way-cool dance steps from the decade we’d love to forget. Outstanding musicianship combined with creative flair and style make for an evening of pure energy and entertainment. Tickets for the ’80s New Year’s Eve Party featuring the Spazmatics are on sale now starting at $119.

Tis the season! Shop with your Rush Reward Points at our Holiday Shopping event. Play with your Rush Rewards Card December 1 – 10 to earn additional shopping dollars towards great holiday gifts!

The more you play, the more you earn!

Visit any of our Rush Rewards kiosks to print out your shopping vouchers before you return to shop.

The shopping event will take place Friday December 9th or Saturday December 10th from 3PM – 10PM in High Limit.

Pink Floyd USA Experience plays all the classics, highlighted by lights, fog, lasers, and video – giving audiences the experience of being at a Pink Floyd concert! These professional musicians perform with precise detail, with the iconic live sounds of Pink Floyd such as saxophone, slide steel guitar, roto toms, and acoustic guitars! January 28th at 8PM at Jack’s Bar + Grill. A full bar will be available. Free parking on-site.

In January catch En Vogue 1/14/23
The Legendary group En Vogue is coming to Rivers Casino Philadelphia for an unforgettable concert!

Rivers Poker Room The Rivers Casino Philadelphia Poker Room features nearly $200,000 in high-hand promotions, including $500 every 30 minutes on select days and times in December.

Rivers Gives

Rivers Gives is a unique community relations program and steadfast commitment by the casino that includes having its Team Members volunteer service hours in the Fishtown neighborhood and surrounding areas. Guests can join Rivers Gives in supporting monthly initiatives that benefit local nonprofits through donation options when cashing their gaming tickets.

The monthly and quarterly organization recipients are as follows:

  • Salvation Army
  • JEVS Human Services

Now for some more good holiday cheer!! Check out another video of the Eagles Caroling Night HERE

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The Rounds, Dr Oz Spotted, Mandarin Duck, Kids Get Vaccinated at the Zoo

December 19, 2021 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment
Earlier this week I had a moment to go to Pennypack Park in NE Philly to check out the Mandarin Duck which has called the creek home for a few weeks. You can find him, and his girlfriend swimming near the dam not too far from the environmental center.

6 days til Christmas. Social Season 2021 has ended. I was so busy this fall. Thanks to Kory Aversa who hired me at least twice a week, sometimes twice a day to photograph his client events. Thanks to other PR companies like Cashman & Assoc., Philly PR Girl, Punch Media, En Route for the multiple events as well.

Very thankful for CBSPhilly, Metro Philly, Philadelphia Tribune, Mainline Today, Philly Style for our media partnership. Thank you Philly Mag for leaving my name on the masthead, I hope that column goes live this year. I sure miss it. In 2021 I will be adding another outlet, but am not able to say what it is yet.

Earlier this week @DrOz stopped by the Snider’s Main Line home for a fundraiser. Oz is running for the seat soon to be vacated by Sen Toomey. (photo provided)

A new Philly-based startup is making sustainability a forefront idea in every household. The Rounds is a no-waste delivery service that refills your staple home goods — from pantry items to cleaning and paper products — on a recurring basis for a low cost. The team was out in Rittenhouse Square on Friday handing out gift cards to use their service, from $5 off to $500 off. Head over to Philly Mag for a great interview with the founders.

The Globy Awards is the leading distinguished occasion where outstanding individual accomplishments
with international implications are recognize in six categories.
2021 Globy Awards

A Giant Week – Photos provided

Left –  The GIANT Company opened its fourth GIANT Heirloom Market™ in Philadelphia’s Fashion District, capping off a tremendous year of growth in the city for 2021. The grand opening event included a ribbon-cutting and remarks by The GIANT Company President Nicholas Bertram, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, and Councilman Mark Squilla.

The store, located at 801 Market Street, is accessible from inside the mall as well as Market Street, and features local produce, a large plant-based department, a self-serve tap wall with more than 30 selections, a Starbucks, and a Hissho sushi bar.

Right – The GIANT Company and Please Touch Museum (PTM) officially opened Food & Family, the fully reimagined and much beloved Market exhibit in Philadelphia’s iconic children’s museum. Inspired by The GIANT
Company’s For Today’s Table® brand platform, Food & Family celebrates families gathering
around the table to enjoy a meal and connect in meaningful ways. This $1.2 million
investment by The GIANT Company not only transforms the 3,650 sq. foot exhibit itself, but it
expands the learning opportunities in the space, allowing families visiting PTM to explore
where food comes from, how to prepare and share food, and how food connects people and
communities.

Another Philly Mural’s days are numbered. In early 2016 Powers’ created, Philadelphia, in Old City. There are tons of great Philly references woven into this piece, encompassing everything from art to food to music. Philadelphia became an instant classic on an iconic commercial corridor. Seems a building is to be built in the parking lot adjacent to the 2nd Street mural in Old City. Construction fences have been installed, but the mural is still intact.

Joan Myers Brown, the founder of Philadanco and Ivory Allison, President, Board of Directors at ‘Fast Forward… To The Future’ at the Kimmel Cultural Campus Friday December 10

Philadanco celebrated it’s illustrious 50-year history Friday night. “Fast forward (0 to 90 in 50+1 years)” included an opening night affair at the Kimmel Cultural Campus’ Kimmel Center. Check out more of the story and photos
on Philadelphia Tribune.

Another Center City Wawa closes. This one at 13th and Chestnut, in Midtown Village. There was definitely an over use issue with this one, which is located a block away from another one which closed last year at Broad & Walnut Streets. The next closest ones are at 12th and Market Streets and the mini one at 33 S 16th Street.

Who knew Peacocks can fly. I spotted this one high in a tree at the Philly Zoo earlier this week when I attended the Philadelphia Zoo Hosts Free Covid-19 Vaccine Clinic and Community Event at LumiNature sponsored by Independence Blue Cross Foundation, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Philadelphia Zoo .

All photos taken with permission from parents

CBSPhilly More photos

Thanks to Boston Market and Christie Mandia, VP Marketing, for advertising with PCC, and having me photograph their activation and store openings this year!! Have you ordered you holiday meal yet, there is still time!!

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Congrats Are In Order….Spotted Antoni and Paulina Porizkova in Philly

July 26, 2021 by HughE Dillon 1 Comment
I think they’re Egret’s, at Ocean City Bird Rookery. (see below)

Thank you to all my readers, folks on the street, family, friends and especially Mike Toub for making my birthday so special. This year I hope to accomplish decade old bucket list items I never really attempted. One is to learn to cook, which means dinner parties, game nights, conversation and a clean house, LOL. AND knowing the names of the birds I’ve been shooting for fun the past few years. I went to my first Bird Meetup last week, and it was fun. I’ll write about it this week. Let’s see what our friends and neighbors are up to, so many well wishes to give…all photos which don’t concern me borrowed from subjects SM, if they want them removed just ask.

My Favs, Memories of Margate with Jerry Blavat and D’Angelo’s Restaurant where Sal serenaded the table with several songs.

Congratulations Brendan and Josh!! “It’s official!!! After our relationship surviving putting together many pieces of ikea furniture over the years without killing each other we decided to get married at a small gathering at our place. We never could have done this all without our families and friends! Thank you all!!! – Josh Michael

Congrats to Alex and Mike on their engagement, ironically coinciding with fellow Instagram influencer

@tusksandtails > Congrats Ashlee Favro and Josh Krantz on your engagement as well!!

Spotted in Rittenhouse Square Antoni Porowski on my birthday July 23, 2021, but surprisingly not here for me. He was attended wedding with his man Kevin Harrington.
In the meantime, my friend Nicole Michalik, aka Nik the Web Chick was on the case trying to figure out why he was in town. I mentioned to her that a reader of mine mentioned a wedding happening in Macy’s on Saturday and thought it’d be fun to shoot for PCC, (with a reception at night at the Crystal Tea Room) which I couldn’t make as I was down the shore for my family reunion. She headed there Saturday morning to sleuth it out with her bestie Joe McCollum. The dynamic duo was unable to uncover the mysterious nuptials.

Porowski’s boyfriend, Kevin Harrington, kevharrington noted on his Instagram…Harrington is from the area and it seems that a couple of his friends were married this weekend.

2 weddings, 1 weekend, 0 glasses of water before falling asleep last night so I am now a raisin @bern_fahey@sheagirl34 #philly#weddings

The Shea wedding took place last year, and on Saturday the reception was held at the place where she and her husband Alex Johnson met, the Manayunk Brewing Company.

Antoni Porowski and Kevin Harrington were in our area earlier this month spending the July 4th weekend in Sea Isle City, and last Christmas spent it with Harrington’s family in Bucks County. There they were spotted outside Bucks County Playhouse as well as shopping at Peddler’s Village.

Competing for height with the Philadelphia City Hall, a magnificent building , once the tallest structure in the world. It is still the tallest standing Masonic structure in the US. (Meaning it has no steel support beams.)
@cityofphiladelphia #phillycityhall (BTW City Hall Tours exterior tours happening now, interior tours star August 3, but the observation tower is not open yet.)

This morning I was watching everyone’s favorite news magazine show Fox 29’s Good Day, they mentioned model, Paulina Porizkova posted this shot of her standing in front of City Hall. As reported by us both a few weeks ago, Paulina, most famously lately of being left out of the will of her husbands Ric Ocasek (truly a case of beauty and the beast, the beast was a musical genius) after they separated a few years earlier, even though they remained close, and she took care of him in his last weeks of life. (BTW I have to admire the admiration of the Daily Mail, which has published at least one glowing article a week on Paulina) OK now to this latest spotting. I believe this was a photo dump, and taken a few weeks ago, even though this is one of her favorite dresses.

Photos in Philly June 11

Last night Paulina spent a beautiful night with her son and his family in LA. We’re glad Paulina loves Philly so much, and hope she will visit again soon.

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Radnor Races 2021; Teresa Giudice Spotted; Philly Nate on Fox 29; Gregg Goes; ToDo: ShopSixtyFive Party

May 16, 2021 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

Happy Preakness Weekend. It was so great to attend the Radnor Hunt Races yesterday, an event I have attended for the past 12 years. This year was special, as has everything in the pandemic, crowds were kept down, there were no big sponsor tents and no one was allowed to cross the track, although a few people were able to connect with family members on either side. They did a great job, and raised more funds for Open Spaces, who’s mission raises fund for the Brandywine Conservancy protects and conserves the land, water, natural, and cultural resources of the Brandywine-Christina watershed. Head to CBSPhilly for more shots.

Speaking of Radnor, RHONJ Teresa Guidice enjoyed dinner with friends and her man Luis “Louie” Ruelas at Estia Taverna in Radnor, Pa. Saturday night. No tables were flipped, but I hear they were as nice as can be, and they enjoyed a lot of the highlights of the menu which keeps me going back for more.

A few weeks ago I attended a derby party co-hosted by Nate Rogers, who is the Spirits Marketing Manager for Makers Mark. He’s on Fox 29 Monday at 8:30am chitchatting about the best BBQ Cocktails for MAY, National BBQ Month.

Congrats to KWY Newsradio reporter Cherri Gregg who left the radio airwaves of the news station after 10 years, to start a new chapter just up the street at WHYY on June 14th. I know ya’ll already heard, but I am super excited to switch over to public radio and to join the team at @whyy. I am even more excited to serve Philly in a different way– this time as a HOST. Best part- you’ll know where and when to find me every day.

Last month Basketball Wives’ Reality Star CeCe Scott (wife of LA Laker Legend Byron Scott) showcased her post-Pandemic looks, “Fashion Meets Protection,” including one-of-a-kind jumpsuits, bedazzled masks, and face shields as top models strut the catwalk in one of the first celebrity fashion events in the New York. The show was followed by an elite listening event showcasing the latest creations of Philadelphia internationally known hip-hop artist Warchyld, hosted by DJ Envy of Power 105’s “The Breakfast Club”.

Fashionistas need to look no further than the latest pop-up shop to open in Suburban Square, ShopSixtyFive, which will host its grand opening event Saturday, May 22, 2021, 10a – 6 pm. The event will include small bites from the new Lola’s Garden, located next door.

ShopSixtyFive is the brainchild of former New York stylist, Linda LaRosa. LaRosa is a regular fashion contributor on many local news programs, including Fox’s Good Day Philadelphia and 6ABC’s FYI Philly.

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Sunday News: Mother’s Day, Adam Sandler, New Restaurants, Faces in The News

May 9, 2021 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms in the world, especially mine!! Ready for some News, Views, Schmooze…

Looks like PhillyChitChat will be heading to Camdenwood in August and September as LeBron James / Adam Sandler “Hustle” Netflik series returns to our area to wrap up scenes. Last year Adam Sandler and Queen Latifah filmed in Philly, until October when they halted production promising to continue in 2021, well now I know it’s late summer according to various sources. Lights, Camera, Action — Cue Camden! Robert Duvall is also in the cast.

Speaking of local film makers, congrats to Breaking Glass who with Blue Fox Jointly Acquire the SXSW Award-Winning Doc ‘We Are The Thousand’ via @Deadline You might remember Breaking Glass CEO Rich Wolff from the early days of TLA, and the Philadelphia FIlm Festivals. Founded in 2009 by industry veterans Rich Wolff and Richard Ross, along with Susan Helfrich (mother of Andrea Helfrich Host of NHL @philadelphiaflyers), Breaking Glass Pictures is a film distribution and media company that focuses on releasing independent films, inclusive of all genres, from around the world. I’ve known them for nearly my entire career as PhillyChitChat!! So happy for their success!!

6ABC and Gray Hall welcomes their newest meteorologist Brittany Boyer to weekends and back home to Philly where she grew up. Hello there! I’m Brittany Boyer and I’m a meteorologist in Pennsylvania. I grew up in the Philadelphia suburbs and am living out my dream everyday! I hold a degree in Meteorology from Mississippi State University. I also hold a degree in Journalism from Penn State University. She replaces Melissa Magee, she left the station last September to return to her family in Los Angeles. She now does the weather in LA at NBC4 News.

Speaking of Gray Hall, he cracks me up. You have to follow his FB page, besides informing us about what is happening in his life, he shares funny antidotes like above, which always puts a smile on my face.

Two local eateries have changed hands both on 11th Street in Center City: Lee’s Hoagies at 246 S 11th St is now going to be Huff & Puff BBQ. Smokin Betty’s is no more, it’s now going to be Top Tomato Bar & Pizza 116 S 11th St. Currently Top Tomato is located at 1107 Walnut St,, no word on if they’re keeping both locations. Thanks to Mike Saks for sending me these tips, they must be on his morning run as they came in two different days and he’s an avid runner. Plus he’s a fan of Primo Hoagies, so when you know you know.

We have a new Miss Philadelphia – Congrats to Elaine Ficcara. Head to Q102 and get to know her. Hopefully when more events return I will get to know her behind the lens.

What a miserable day today is , except spending it with our loved ones either in person or spirit, but the good news is as Adam Joseph posted, more daylight after 8PM until August 13!!! Check back with us here at PhillyChitChat as I have so many events to share with you. Business is starting to get back to normal, and that makes me super happy. Vaxed and Relaxed seems to be the theme…..

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News: Good Bye Drew Smith, Kristen Rodgers, Congrats Alondra Anaya

April 26, 2021 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment
Hot Off The Presses

Hope you had a beautiful weekend. So much happening in town, people are emerging from their year long pandemic pods, most fully vaccinated.

Philly Chit Chat is getting hired to shoot parties again, and placing them in the media, it’s what we do!! See About for more info. OK let’s check out HughE Around Town…

On the verge of opening is Lamberti Pizza & Market at 7th and Chestnut. Good news I hear Stephen Starr’s Jones across the street is planning to open, as Jones, not as one of the concepts.

Congrats to Telemundo’s Alondra Anaya who got engaged to her beau earlier this month.

Which was perfect timing as roomie and co worker Miguel Martinez-Valle, Telemundo and NBC10 has moved in with his beau Raymond Smeriglio this passed weekend. They already have a favorite corner in their new home.

Moving On another of Miguel’s co-worker, Drew Smith, NBC10. He’s moving back home to Boston, as his partner Fede finishes up his medical degree. I’ll miss them so much, but am so happy for them both and the great love they share.

Another fond farewell to Kristen Rodgers, Fox29’s sports anchor since 2017, she recently left to join her love in Hawaii. You can’t fault anyone for following their heart. So happy for my friends, congrats to all of them. Staying….


✨🥂✨

Happy Birthday to Fox 29’s Alex Holley. What a joy to call her my friend. She is exactly who you see on TV, warm, friendly, kind, generous , talented and funny!! Love you Alex Holley, Philly is lucky to have you.

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HughE Around Town: Banana Republic Exits CC Location, What’s Next; Wedding Reveal; Wanda Sykes Spotted

April 18, 2021 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment
I kinda had dinner with @iamwandasykes Wanda Sykes and Alex Sykes @iamalexsykes @spicefinchphilly on Friday night.
At first I wasn’t going to sneak a photo as Alex Sykes and I follow each other on Instagram and it’s kinda like breaking the “4th wall knowing each other”, but like that snake parable story, I stayed true to my “paparazzo” self and grabbed a sneak shot.
After I finished dinner, I did say a quick hi to them both before I left, and I didn’t ask for a photo. Just a quick hey, it’s me, and it’s you and I love your Instagram posts. I totally told them about my trip to Florida, as they just got back as well. They asked how mom was doing. Hey mom!!
TONIGHT: Wanda is participating in ABC’s “Roll Up Your Sleeves” on Sunday, April 18 at 7PM. Thanks Wanda!! You all must follow their Instagram, they are so loving, and so hysterical. During dinner they ate across from each other, but when they had dessert they sat next to each other, which is when I got this shot from where I was sitting at the bar.
Hey bud!! Spring has sprung, the blooming trees have blanketed the landscape and people are emerging from their hibernation, safely with their masks on. So much happening around town as well and I’m excited to share it with you. Then get out and enjoy the beautiful day and each other.

The big story this week is the Banana Republic at 1401 Walnut Street is closing on June 9th, and the big going out of business sale. After I posted this on Social Media a few readers found out that the landlord decided not to renew the long time clothing store, could it have something to do with their parent company GAP not paying rent in 2020 at many of their Simon Mall locations around the country, which they settled with undisclosed details a few months later. But this location is not a mall, and it is not connected to Simon.

Thanks so much to Jay Farrell who left a message on my FB page with the updated info about the property.
The Zoning Permit. Looks like a bank could take over half the space, and a clothing store takes the otherside.

The Good News: The Banana Republic Factory Store (discount) remains open 1911 Chestnut St. and since the retailer was pushed out of the space, I wouldn’t be surprised if Banana Republic doesn’t resurface somewhere on Walnut St.

Another Story I posted earlier this week on my Instagram
Yeah finally announced!!! @federaldonuts is opening on the Parkway. As you know I got a tour in February of the new Pearl Properties apartment building The Terrace on 18th Street, and was filled in on this tidbit as well as more to come. (The fast-casual doughnut shop will occupy 1,500+ square feet on the ground floor of The Terrace. The Terrace location will have the most seating of any Federal Donuts location, including an expansive raised outdoor patio)
Pearl Properties and Federal Donuts are excited to announce that a brand-new location for Federal Donuts is coming to The Terrace on 18th at 1776 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Philadelphia’s iconic donut and fried chicken specialists will open their tenth location at the newest residence on Parkway.

Bummer Fairmounters Fine Wines is closing on Fairmount Avenue, and unfortunately you have to head about a 1/2 mile south to get your spirits at the new Fine Wines store at The Granary (1901 Callowhill St,) near the Target store. Neighbors on Next Door are hoping the post office next door will expand, or maybe they’ll take down the ugly building and build a more attractive one with retail. One could only hope.

Like spotting an unicorn, I saw a bride reveal her dress to her groom on Saturday at Fairmount Park. It was magical, people in the park were as excited as I was. PS Some of you folk who subscribe to PhillyChitChat and receive this post in your email will have to click on the Instagram link to see the video. The rest of you should be able to just hit play (BTW you later folks, could you subscribe to the blog in the upper left hand corner. Turns out the Feed burner subscription I used over a decade ago is about to be non existent. I could transfer the 15ks of your emails to the new subscription by hand, or you could just re subscribe which would be so much easier. Remember to verify your email after plugging it in to the subscription box. Thanks!!

The photographer (on left) Allie Wynands, tells me that yesterday was just a small service for an intimate group of guests, which took place at the Gazebo. Photos were taken, and a legal marriage took place. BUT the big wedding, with many more guests and celebration will be taking place next year in April, after the Covid19 pandemic is over, down the shore. Check out Allie’s Instagram page tomorrow for more photos from today’s ceremony.

Charity Speaking:
The Andalusia Foundation’s Virtual Wine Auction fundraising event, which is set to begin tonight at 6 p.m. and closes on Saturday, April 24 at 10 p.m. This silent auction features some incredibly rare and extraordinary wine lots, wine-related items and a special dinner or lunch at Andalusia’s Cottage. Anyone interested in participating can do so from any location thanks to the auction’s virtual format this year!

To preview the auction lots and participate in the online, visit:

WineAuction2021.givesmart.com or text WineAuction2021 to 76278

All proceeds benefit The Andalusia Foundation’s mission to preserve, maintain and interpret this National Historic Landmark for the public to enjoy today and for generations to come. They have beautiful gardens, and great bird watching.

During a virtual membership meeting and ceremony, The Saturday Club, one of the oldest women’s non-profit organizations in both Pennsylvania and nationwide, awarded grant funding to three local organizations with aligned missions. Annual philanthropy grants were presented to Cradle of Hope, Families Forward Philadelphia and Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center. The funds, which were raised by the club through virtual and in-person community fundraisers throughout 2020 and 2021, will be used to establish and enhance programs while providing key assistance to each organization. 

Save The Date:
The Philadelphia Film Society Presents

FEATURING A POST-SCREENING Q&A WITH MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY, PARKER POSEY & RICHARD LINKLATER
Stars Matthew McConaughey and Parker Posey will join Linklater and host Jack Black – recorded via Zoom – for a look back at a film that captured the look and the sounds of an entire generation.

DAZED AND CONFUSED + VIRTUAL CAST REUNION
RICHARD LINKLATER | USA | 1993 | 103 MIN | R
April 20 | 8:15 PM | PFS Drive-In at the Navy Yard TICKETS

8TH ANNUAL OSCARS PARTY & SCREENING
Sunday, April 25, 2021
At Cira Green | Philadelphia’s Park in the Sky | 129 South 30th Street

VIP Ticket with 6:30 PM VIP Reception | $200 (PFS Members $175)
General Admission with 7:00 PM Entry | $60 (PFS Members $50)
VIP Virtual Red-Carpet Party, Oscars Trivia Contest, & Gourmet Oscars Watch Box, 7:00 PM | $150 Donation
GA Virtual Red-Carpet Party & Oscars Trivia Contest, 7:00 PM |  $50 Donation
All proceeds from this annual fundraiser support the Philadelphia Film Society’s mission of creating opportunities for diverse communities to experience film through initiatives that inspire, educate, challenge and entertain.

HBO Photos

Speaking of films, the Kate Winslet HBO series filmed in our area last year debuts tonight Mare of Easttown. I was able to stay on top of the filming, but didn’t make it out to the set but about 2 times because of time constraints, as well as locations inside homes, and the studio. Where were the Mare of Easttown filming locations >> mostly in parts of Chester and Delaware counties, in towns including Coatesville, Marcus Hook and Downingtown. But they also filmed at Girard College in Fairmount, as well as Wissahickon Valley Park.

The 800 block of North 2100 Street is blooming right now. ChitChat with you tomorrow. I love doing these around town with Hughe posts. I know I always say I plan to do more, but I definitely will. I’m scouring your SM, reading press releases and will be filling you in here. Fill free to send me info as well and I will try and mention it here.
Thanks for your support, and thanks for saying hi when we’re out and about.

Remember if you receive an email where you have to click on a link to get to the blog, re subscribe at the top left with your email as the other service ends in July. Thanks HughE

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8 Things That Will Get You Talking about Philly

February 10, 2021 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

HughE Around Town
Happy Hump Day. As we approach Valentine’s Day, know it’s not just about couples; It’s about love. Love for ourselves, our community and each other. I love this stoop in Society Hill. I love when I go to the doctors office, like today, and they have cutout hearts on the window. I love heart shaped brooches, heart shaped candy boxes, and cute little Valentine cards kids give to their friends. When I was a kid, and right into my adulthood, my mom always sent my brother and sisters a card and a box of candy. So when stores start displaying those heart shaped candy boxes in October, my heart leaps a bit. Have an awesome day, but let’s see what’s happening around town.

#SaveTheDatePHL

FREE ROMANTIC CONCERT: Saturday NOON Broad & Spruce
Sweetheart Serenade—a free concert of love songs from Arthaus on the Avenue of the Arts. Sweetheart Serenade features a duet of University of the Arts singers performing the songs of Frank Sinatra, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran and Hency Mancini from a pop-up stage on the 7th floor of the luxury condominium construction site. Then we’ll head upstairs to check out a finished sample apartment with a breathtaking view of the Avenue of the Arts.

224 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

Coming Soon:
Shaking Seafoods is opening in the former spot of Thai Koji Sushi which closed last year. Shaking Seafoods also has a spot at 243 S. 10th Street. Besides the regular seafood fare the popular eatery serves chicken wings as well.

It’s getting hot in here!!

Evil Genius is still pop up 1602 Spruce Street.

(Read above first)
Saw on Next Door. What I really want to know is who left the window open, and why was the window open, how did you not realize the window was open. Thanks neighbors, you’re terrific.

Save The Date (Maybe) Philly’s Damon Feldman — who’s been behind a ton of celebrity boxing events over the years — has announced another celebrity boxing match between Aaron Carter and Lamar Odom June 12 in Atlantic City at the Showboat Hotel (owned by Philly resident Bart Blatstein). Tickets go on sale soon, but I am confident you could buy them the day before as well.

***Sponsorship opportunities direct message @therealdamonfeldman

Keep that shovel handy this week. I’ll be back tomorrow with more on Philly to chat about. Have a great day. HughE

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Robert Irvine Launches; New Philly Dance Club; Kate Winslet Spotted; Sidney & Caroline Kimmel Celebrate

March 5, 2020 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment

Hey ChitChat readers, hope you’re doing well. Ya gotta love this spring weather. Did you have a chance to visit the PHS Flower Show yet. Lots of great exhibits to see, as well flowers, make and take and the popular potting parties.

Earlier this week I stopped by to photograph celebrity chef, author and TV personality Robert Irvine, who was signing bottles of Boardroom Spirits at the PHS Flower Show in the Fine Wine and Spirits section. He also announced to the crowd that in a few weeks he would have his own line of spirits which would be distributed via Boardroom Spirits. First up is a Gin with some of his favorite herbs, spices and botanicals from the kitchen. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the bottles will support the Robert Irvine Foundation, benefiting our military and first responders. Look for Chef Irvine to announce info for his popular dining event Beats & Eats which will be May 18, 2020. (Here are my photos from last year) Boardroom Spirits is a sustainable, family-owned craft-distillery offering unique drinking experiences to consumers. Headquartered in Lansdale, Pennsylvania.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9Rzu5XDmFwmYAlex028oJ3n61bmzEYfpKpsG40/

Looks like the king of night life Ryan Dorsey is getting back into the night club business. The owner of Recess, former manager of NOTO and co-owner of Dos Tacos, Mr. Dorsey has been hinting on his social media of big things at 461 North 3rd Street, formerly McFaddens.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9CTgxlj1QMZxVN9a0KirnW5lrJuEb9uh9KjPk0/

Mr. Ivy is now accepting applications

Thanks to my tipsters who told me Kate Winslet’s HBO TV Series was filming in Roxborough last weekend at the high school and Salvation Army, and in Wissahickon Valley this week.

Happy Belated birthday to Sidney Kimmel on his 92nd birthday in January. I spoke with Caroline Kimmel in January to chitchat a bit and she was nice enough to send this photo along. She told me they had dinner with friends including one of my favorite signer, Paul Anka, who sang a song in Sidney’s honor. The happy couple celebrated their 20th Anniversary in December, and Sidney surprised Caroline with a gift in her honor to Jefferson: a $70 million gift from Sidney and Caroline Kimmel, which will significantly advance research at Jefferson. The Caroline Kimmel Biomedical Research Building will be a home for big ideas, providing Jefferson scientists with leading-edge technology and laboratories. You can read more about it here. (photo by Halstan Williams )
Stephen Klasko President of Thomas Jefferson University and President and CEO of TJUH System – Jefferson University Hospitals announces the gift from Sidney and Caroline Kimmel. First on the video is Jefferson Resident Physicians who are in Jefferson’s choral.
Photo Provided

Speaking of congratulations, congrats to Jefferson fashion design students Marquies Smith and Robin Skodi showcase socially conscious collections during New York Fashion Week. Fashion design . Check out their story HERE.

See you tomorrow when we’ll chit chat about…

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About Last Night: What’s Popping in Philly

December 12, 2019 by HughE Dillon Leave a comment
About Last Night: What’s Popping in Philly
Hope everyone is having a great week.
Hanukkah and Christmas are closing in and there’s so much to do. Over the past week I’ve discovered a few cute shops you might like, and things you might want to do.
Congrats to my friend WOGL’s Marilyn Russell (center, standing) who held her annual Remarkable Women event on Tuesday at the Downtown Club. This year’s 98.1 WOGL Remarkable Woman of the Year is World Cup champion Julie Ertz. She was honored for her charitable work with the Ertz Family Foundation as well as her accomplishments on the soccer field. Check out additional photos at CBSPhilly.
  • Last night I stopped by the Ritz-Carlton’s Holiday Pop Up. The exclusive Holiday Pop Up in The Ritz-Carlton Chalet.
Featuring cheerful specialty cocktails, Champagne, naughty or nice hot chocolate and a decadent sweet & savory station. Live entertainment from BVT Live! December 12 and 13. 5:30 pm – 9 pm. $85 per adult, includes specialty cocktail and sweet & savory station. Limited seating. Reservations required. 21+ to attend.
  • Ashley, Alex & Mike
  • The Ritz Chalet
  • Kristin Detterline, Jackie London, Jimmy Contreras, and Brittany Shipp

The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia celebrates this holiday season with a calendar full of exclusive experiences and adds a special twist to classic traditions. To make a reservation or for info, please call The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia at 215-523-8000 or visit www.ritzcarlton.com/philadelphia.

The Made in Philadelphia 
Holiday Market has once again transform Dilworth Park into a holiday shopping wonderland from Saturday, November 23, 2019 to January 1, 2020. Over 50 artisans, designers, crafters and confectioneries from the greater Philadelphia region offer decorations, gifts and holiday foods inside white, festively lit tents topped with original Herrnhut Stars. Also head on over to Christmas Village this weekend for German Weekend. there’s going to be a a beer stein holding competition, the Bratwurst eating contest, a Christmas costume contest and lots of entertainment!!
Check out more Information HERE
On my way to the Ritz Carlton last night I stopped by the recently expanded Concourse at Comcast Center which unveiled a new marketplace of local and regional merchants and programming partners just in time for the holiday shopping season.
Visit Philadelphia and other partners will pop-up
throughout the season with activities, giveaways and great holiday gifts.

New retail partners include:
 Aurora Grace Chocolates – including candles
 Endeavor Athletic
 Franklin & Whitman – plant-based and cruelty-free skincare, hair care, men’s grooming, and pet products
 Paper On Pine –
 Remark Glass – handblown, sustainablyrecycled glass barware and décor.
 Stover Ceramics -wheel-thrown and handcrafted pottery and custom-made pieces locally crafted in the Philadelphia area.
 Campus Artists & Makers
 Comcast NBCUniversal Store – Memorabilia from SNL, This is Us, The Top Chef and lots of other great merchandise from favorite shows.

Also popping up in the Comcast Concourse is Tired Hands Brewing Company which opened their seasonal space earlier this month. The award-winning, PA-based brewery will offer local, small batched beers to-go, tastings and an eclectic array of merchandise.

Movie Review:

A Marriage Story on @netflix#NotAChristmasMovie is hard to watch. It’s good, great acting but it’s about a divorce and it’s painful. It’s Kramer vs Kramer for this generation. The star power in this movie made me not look away except when I grabbed tissues. #MovieReview

Finally luck Friday, 13th at 6pm join in the caroling at Barnes & Noble Rittenhouse Square followed by a signing with Renae Baker, author of Defeating Scrooge. Plus B&N offers gift wrapping of items where ever you’ve bought your gift for a donation for the charity doing the wrapping in the vestibule.

I found this cute little shop, which houses independent artists wares, Plants 🌱 Gifts 🛍 Handmade gifts in Rittenhouse Square at 229 S. 20th Street
Pop-up Shop Located inside of the Lil’ Pop Shop www.shop-pomelo.com

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