Tag: Philadelphia

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Philadelphia

Ryan Lochte on Fox 29 News Anchors Shenielle Jones and Mike Jerrick Lose It After Bizarre Interview

I had heard rumblings about Olympian Ryan Lochte’s new reality show. It seems Ryan is desperate to become as famous as legendary Michael Phelps.

For what I’ve seen and hear, Lochte is dumber than a box of rocks, but pretty rocks. Today he appeared via satilite on Good Day and demonstrated what we’re in for. He’s like Anna Nicole Smith on testosterone. Check out my vine of today’s Good Day Philly with clips which foreshadow the future, and an always calm, cool and collected Shenielle Jones reacting to the interview and Mike Jerrick is as funny as ever.
(VOLUME Instructions: Put your cursor on the video and turn the volume on, it’s in the upper
left hand corner. Then move the cursor to remove the words.)

Vine is a 6 second stop and go video. It’s only available on IPhones and IPads, but can be watched on any device. I post them to Vine, FB and Twitter. (I bought a mini IPad just to get VINE. Go check out the site, so many awesome videos, clever and funny. Follow me: PhillyChitChat

Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29
Here’s the whole video 
My favorite line “I’m a man at night, and a man in the morning.”

Check out a clip on TMZ

 https://www.google.com/search?q=fox+reporters+ryan+lotche&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

The story has taken off around the world.

Lochte’s reality show “What Would Ryan Lochte Do?” will premiere Sunday, April 21 at 10 P.M. EST on E!. It will follow the athlete as “he prepares for the Rio games
in 2016 while building his fashion line, making buzz-worthy media
appearances, dealing with his unconventional family and loyal friends
and, always, searching for ‘the one’.”

Hey are you following me on Instagram yet, of course these pixs also upload to FB and Twitter so you can see them there too. Here’s two of my most popular ones of late.
 

 Sunset over Passyunk last night (Actually 9th Street, near Passyunk)
 City Hall looking towards Market Street
 Last night I had dinner with friends at Chima, Dana, Melissa, Joe, Kory and Peter Breslow
Categories
Philadelphia

Anne Hathaway Spotted in Philadelphia Saturday & Sunday

It’s nice to know that actress and Oscar winner Anne Hathaway still visits her family here in Philadelphia.

Both of Anne’s parents were born in the Philadelphia area Gerald T. Hathaway and Kate McCauley Hathaway, and met while they attended La Salle University during the 1970s, graduating one year apart. (Congratulations La Salle with a return to the NCAA Sweet 16 for the first time in 21 years.) (I shot the above pix outside another bar/restaurant, The Waverly Inn in NYC. She was looking at her mom who was standing next to me, when I took this photo.)

Last night I received a tip that Anne was at The Ten Six Club, 1709 Walnut St. celebrating a cousin’s bacherlorette party.

She was in disguise wearing a pink wig and sunglasses.  Expect her to be at the wedding in a few weeks too, she’s not shy about attending them or buying the dress on the day of as she did nearly 2 years ago for another cousins wedding, read about it here.

Sunday night she was spotted at 30th Street station boarding an Amtrak train back to NYC. 


  1. 6h

    Nothing like seeing Anne Hathaway disguised like she was in the princess diaries in the Philly train station!

    Expand


  2. 7h

    Just saw Anne Hathaway in a Philly train station, nbd

    (I received the tip about 1:30AM and had just arrived home exhausted. Otherwise I would have gone back out. Thanks to my tipster.)




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Philadelphia

Women Paying It Forward: United Way’s 2013 Women’s Initiative Gala

On Wednesday, March 13, 2013 the United Way hosted the 2013 Women’s
Initiative Gala at the Crystal Tea Room. 

The Women’s Initiative mobilizes women to give,
advocate and volunteer in support of at-risk women and girls in our
region. It plays an important role in supporting United Way’s efforts to
improve the lives of young girls through out our region to learn how to
develop and maintain healthy relationships and enhance their leadership
skills. Laurisa Adorno, “I’m a leader because I speak up when I believe someone or something goes against what I feel is right, volunteer to make a difference in my community and encourage others to work to achieve their dreams.” Stephanie Astimbay-Sosa, Julissa Bermudez-Rivas, Marnay Blackwell, Dariel Burton, Abigail Campoli, Ansela Corney, Tatana Divine, Leticia Ezekiel-Lundy,Zaria Fatal, Samiyah Finger, Sabrina Ford, Rashay Gambrell, Johnnya Gibson, Breyance Gilyard-Butts, Saviona Goode, Asia Goodwin, Ashnay Graham, Samira Guzman, Delainie Hain, Stephanie Hanton, Jaiannah Hardy, Janiya Hicks, Nasirah Huff, India Johnson, Kishia Johnson, Madison Jordan, Aniyah Levertte, Nickol McKeown (wants to be an actress someday.) Antoinette Moss, Keyonna Mungin, says a leader makes smart decisions, Samira Nash Cook, Cassandra Pittman, Bryana Presock, Cheyanne Ricks, Ah”Niya Rome, Anyah Ryan, Shakrya Streater, Nydia Truehart, Kennee Walker, Imani Weeks, Bobbie S Xayamoungkhoun, Kalhima Young, wants to work in Childcare Services.

The 2013 Women’s Initiative Honoree this year was long time volunteer
Mary Stengel Austen, (2nd from right) President and CEO of Tierney. Another honoree was
the presenting sponsor, Independence Blue Cross. Their continuous
support of the United Way’s work in the areas of Education, Income and
Health has made an indelible impact on the lives of hundreds of at-risk
women and girls. Jill Michal, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, Chris Cashman, Independence Blue Cross, Amy
Fraizer, Managing Director, Marketing & Sales Leader, PwC, LLO, Nancy Threlfall, President Threlfall Marketing Group

Joy Slabough and Liz Tammaro
Christine Bonfigilo, Christen Cohen and Chrissy Baxter
 Rev. Bonnie Camarda, director of partnerships for The Salvation Army of
Greater Philadelphia and Councilwomen Blondell Reynolds- Brown
Michael Starker, Trish Cashman and David Yadgaroff
Char-Elle Vassall, Jaiannah Hardy, a participant in the “Girls Today,
Leaders Tomorrow” program, Grace Geci and Frannie O’Connor
Amy Nelson, Beth Huston, Carolyn Sherry and Jane Ulrich

William Carter told me he admires what the United Way has done with this program
where it’s inspired the young girls and matched them with role models to emulate, with Teralyn Carter

Betty, United Way and Sara Ward at the United Way Celebrating 10 Years of
Women Leaders in Philanthropy and Volunteerism at Crystal Tea Room

Josh Belle (who is my 2nd cousin-in-law) and Charlie Young at your service at the United Way
Celebrating 10 Years of Women Leaders in Philanthropy and Volunteerism
at Crystal Tea Room

Barb Doyne, Erin Charey and Brian Taylor, were excited to be here to see the young ladies of the 2013 recognized for the growth them made over the past year in this program.

Renée Cardwell Hughes, CEO of the Southeastern Pennsylvania chapter of
the American Red Cross at the United Way Celebrating 10 Years of Women
Leaders in Philanthropy and Volunteerism at Crystal Tea Room

Rachel Walker and Sarah Lack
Meredith Setzman, Hersha Hospitality and Courtney Flanagan, Tierney
Over the last five years, United Ways has partnered with a number of local agencies that share their commitment to improving the lives of children throughout the region.
Lynne and Ellie Utter 
They include the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Philadelphia
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Philadelphia, Congreso, Discovery Charter School, Education Works, Excell Community Development Corp, Foundation for Pottsown Education, Girl Scouts of Eastern Pa, Greater Philly and SNJ, Healthy Communities Initiative, Inc, Phila Anti-Drug/Anti-Violence Network, Phila Department of Human Services, Phila Prevention Partnership, Public Health Management Corp, Say Yes to Education, The Wellness of Young, United Communities of SE Pa, and YWCA Tri-County Areas.
Alona Karpuzi and Victoria Ivery

Lori Wilson, Anchor NBC10 Philadelphia, took time away from her vacation
to host the United Way Celebrating 10 Years of Women Leaders in
Philanthropy and Volunteerism at

Jill Michal, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey

Tatyana Divine and Shakyra Streeter tell the guests how the “Girls
Today, Leaders Tomorrow” (GTLT) program has changed their lives.

Amber Martin GTLT alumni, said when she came to the program she was angry and withdrawn, but now she’s outgoing and confident with big plans for her future in college.

Amber Martin GTLT alumni, Mary Stengel Austen, President Tierney accepts
the 2013 Women’s Intitiative Award, Jill Michal, President and CEO of
United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, at the
United Way. It’s really one of my favorite programs that the United Way offers. If you want information on how you can help contact the United Way



Categories
Philadelphia

UMAMI: An Evening of Sensory Indulgence and FUN

Last week I went to the most fantastical event. The Theatre Confetti Party. But it wasn’t just a party, it was a celebration, an event, a happening. It really was one of the most memorable events I had attended in the past five years. Let’s meet some of the people who were there…

Co–artistic directors of Theatre Confetti Bi Jean Ngo and Nicole Paloux celebrate during the event with Where Magazine’s Kristina Jenkins (r), who is now part of the artistic team

 Guests began to arrive at the Power Plant, which lies in the shadow of the Ben Franklin Bridge in Old City, at around 7PM. Actors Noah Berger and Alexa Darrow were one of the first to arrive, looking smartly dressed, and looking forward to what lie ahead and was promoted as a lite fare, show, drinking and dancing.

 Michael Clarke and Vincent Vienne, GM Sofitel Hotel Philadelphia
 Justin Fine, Clarina Portnorth, Mariana Seltzer and Larry Reese, tell me that they’re looking forward to the Philadelphia Flower Show starting tonight. They need a little spring, and they need it right now. I don’t blame them, it was cold that night, but warm inside.
Model Joe Gorgol and designer Lele Tran.(she designed the white dress Nicole Paloux is wearing.)

Ahsa Sahijwani, Kristina Jenkins and Sara Moix

 Fusion II dance Troupe was in the house and performed a lively dance for the guests after dinner.. These ladies are all in high school, and are already supremely talented. Check them out on 4/7/13 at the Painted Bride.

 Abby Raymond, Anna Schneider and Kelly Colum
 Neil Shah, President and Chief Operating Officer Hersha Hospitality Trust and Juhi Shah
 Renee Millett, Dustin Resnick and Jon Gosier

 
 I entered the room where the dinner party was to be held and it was simply spectacular. It was dark, with just ambient light so that you could see who you were talking to, as well as to safely walk around the basement theatrical space. There were blue balloons lining the ceiling, with strings attached, most of them long closest to the perimeter of the room, but shorter in the center of the room. It really lent itself to a festive atmosphere, and built the excitement for the night for what was to come.
Surinder Aggarwal and James Healy

 Let the dinner begin. Umami: An Evening of Sensory Indulgence by Theatre Confetti. Bites by & Wild Theatrical Performances.

The narrator for the evening guided us through our meal, through the entertainment to the finale

The night was like a mystery novel unfolding with each chapter
There was dance
The dance was choreographed by Nancy Berman Kantra and that Rolling Barrel Events did the bar.
Lovesick Inc. (the DJ’s) and Kuf Knotz
the band played: West Philly Orchestra
 Charles and Nicole Paloux open the dance floor
Love was in the air

Set design by Creme Design. During the first number when folks were on the dance floor, a button was pushed and several of the balloons exploded covering the guests in confetti

And before I knew it the night was over. But it doesn’t end there…

Coming up next for Theater Confetti is the debut of Edith Can Shoot Things and Hit Them at Old City’s the Power Plant beginning March 7

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Philadelphia

Bart Blatstein’s Casino – PAUL STEELMAN, ARCHITECT & DESIGNER OF PROVENCE –

PAUL STEELMAN, ARCHITECT & DESIGNER OF
PROVENCE, TO REVEAL
DESIGN PLANS IN WALKING TOUR OF PHILADELPHIA
INQUIRER BUILDING

The iconic Philadelphia Inquirer Building stands vacant now, but if Bart Blatstein has his way he’s going to build a casino resort that will be worthy of such an iconic building

and create another century of stories to tell. The proposed $700 million luxury resort and casino on North Broad Street, Philadelphia. ; 50,000 combined square-feet of meeting and event space; and two indoor parking garages.  The Casino at The Provence comprises less than 20% of the complex’s total scope.  

Today architect Paul Steelman, who is based in Las Vegas, Nevada
and Macau and is notable for designing casinos and entertainment venues around the world, as well as embracing environmental elements and incorporating them into a structure.

The newsroom floor would be the new casino floor. The windows will remain to let natural light in, smoking would be regulated according to state law,


 the room will be exciting with a 120,000 square-foot, high-quality casino featuring 3,300 electronic gaming machines (slots and automated table games),

  
The main entrance to the casino will be from the 15th Street Side, as the expressway will empty out at it’s door step.

 The casino and resort entrances will be on the south and west sides of the building (Callowhill and 15th Streets), but you don’t have to go through the casino to get to the 120,000 square-foot, family-oriented rooftop village, an French influenced square; 

plus a 75,000 square-foot concert hall; eight restaurants; a private swim club with two pools; a 9,000 square-foot nightclub;  60,000 square feet of upscale shops; a 20,000 square-foot Spa & Fitness Center; (the tower will be removed and the communal square will be built out on a flat surface)

 The family-oriented rooftop village will include many of the charming elements that you would find in France, and in Philadelphia. 

City Hall’s architectural style is French 2nd Empire, and we honor the Champs–Elysees avenue in Paris with our own Ben Franklin Parkway.

  The entrance and exit ramps for Rt676 would be reconfigured and a gorgeous seasonal park would be created. Each new season would be reflective in plantings and decorations. Christmas time would celebrate the old John Wanamaker’s tradition with festive lights.

 

 The hallmarks of the 1.25 million square-foot Provence resort and casino complex include a 125-room hotel housed in the landmark tower of the former Inquirer building, which will have an entrance on Broad Street.  Blatstein plans to keep the facade the same which fits into the historic North Broad Street architectural style. He plans to assist in maintaining the historic street-scape all the way up to Temple University.

  The 125 room hotel will keep many of the historic elements that the Inquirer building housed, like these beautiful cast iron staircases

 A few of the press people who were on the tour today
In Walter Annenberg’s original office,

the terrace doors. This will now be one of the opulent suites in the hotel.  
The hotel will also have a coffee shop, which they are kicking around calling “Ink”, and a bar called “Scandal.”

The former State Building in the background, which is now owned and operated by Tower Investments as an apartment complex and is called The Tower Place apartments .

The Blatstein organization’s biggest stress of the day was that this was a great fit for Philadelphia, especially North Broad. The focus was on the resort part of the complex, with only about 20% of the space being the casino, it’s a place you can take the family shopping, relaxing, sit by the pool, see a show. It’s a destination and adds value to the City. This week all the casino’s present their plans for their casino’s and I look forward to hearing what the others have to offer.

Tower Investments, Inc.
(“Tower”), led by Principal Bart Blatstein, is a leading developer of
retail, entertainment, mixed use, residential and commercial properties
in the Philadelphia area. Since 1978, the company has distinguished
itself as an innovator and pioneer, finding significant opportunities in
areas overlooked and underserved by more traditional firms. Based in
Philadelphia, Tower is a privately held development company with
expertise in all aspects of planning, design, construction, financing
and leasing. Tower is known for its aggressive and creative urban
investments in major projects.    Tower has developed millions of square
feet of retail, commercial, entertainment and residential space. Among
the firm’s other projects are Avenue North on Broad Street in North
Philadelphia and entertainment, commercial and residential developments
in Manayunk.  Tower also pioneered waterfront development in
Philadelphia, along with pioneering the revitalization of Northern
Liberties and North Broad Street.  Tower is committed to creating
mixed-use urban enterprises that enhance the cityscape, improve the
City’s tax base and create employment and business opportunities.  More
information is available @ http://www.towerdev.com.

Read more: http://www.faqs.org/sec-filings/130201/ISLE-OF-CAPRI-CASINOS-INC_8-K/a13-4256_1ex99d1.htm#ixzz2Kd48Lqet

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Philadelphia

EXCLUSIVE: MILEY CYRUS FINALLY GOES BACK TO PHILLY RECORDING STUDIO

Aaah for four months I had to bite my tongue about where Miley Cyrus was recording tracks for her new CD during the time fiance Liam Hemsworth was filming his movie Paranoia with Gary Oldman and Harrison Ford. When I rang up the studio last August for confirmation on a rumor I had heard, about Cyrus recording there, they asked me not to say where until after December as she was going to come back and finish the session, and they too didn’t want a hoard of fans waiting outside. I did however tweet telling her fans she would be back to finish the recordings, but didn’t mention the studio (Miley herself always tweeting during her studio sessions saying she was recording here in Philly.)

 It was nail biting to wait especially because unbeknownst to me, Director Robert Luketic had asked that Miley stay away while the movie was filming. Since I had tweeted about it the fans kept asking me when, when, when is Miley coming back. To say the least I was getting nervous, plus hoping it wouldn’t get out as I was also working with a national magazine on the story (so some things are missing from this report.)
Above few of the Fangirls & guy hanging near the dressing rooms on
12th and Chestnut near where Paranoia was filming on Market Street in
the Loews Hotel. You’ll recall from yesterday’s entry that Carissa Beam, in the cow pants, met Miley & Liam the night before.

 Puppy on board. FINALLY Miley returned to Philly the day before the last day of shooting (Tuesday)

Last month according to a report by one of my fav Philly columnists, AD Amorosoi of the City Paper, he reported she had recorded at the Milk Studios in Northern Liberties, and they said she wasn’t coming back, and they were right as Miley had started to work with the the talent at SIGMA SOUND STUDIOS at 12th and Race Streets in August, recording with producers Ronny FLIP Colson, Pop Wansel, and Oak Wu.  (I kept telling the fans to hold on she’d been back to record, I mean no one told me to go public yet, so I knew she must have still been coming. The fans just wanted to know because they were eager for the CD to drop, not to hang out waiting for her. Most live far far away, and in other countries. Plus who doesn’t want to know about their fav stars, that’s why those magazines and Entertainment shows do so well)
Thanks to my advertiser Teuschers Chocolate – they have a great online store too.


Our collaboration went so well then, that we decided to work together to find Miley. I had read Miley was going to go to Village Whiskey for Chicken & Waffles so I had Carissa go there to see if her car was there. I headed to Sigma Sound to see if she was there. I saw her outside smoking, dressed in black head to toe with a skull cap on, but could tell there wasn’t a chance to get a shot at that time without really making a scene. So I was hungry and left. I knew it could be a long night.

 
Back to Liam: Above that’s the security near the trailer blocking my shots of Liam, in
their defense they kept apologizing and saying they had to do it it was
there job. When I got to the trailer I chatted with Liam for a nano
second saying my cousin enjoyed chatting with him Saturday night.
Tomorrow on Good Day Philly find out where that was, and where Liam was
living for the duration of the filming of the movie in December.   While Liam Hemsworth was here, he did go to The Sporting Club a couple times in December I hear.
I ran into a few friends at Magianno‘s, who I had seen earlier at the 400PTM’s The Big Payback – Toys for Tots Event. Miley arrived at the studio in a sleek black SUV with rims of gold, I wonder who was pimping that ride? (Secrets Limo)
Reggie Berry, The 400PTM, Jacky Wright, The 400 PTM and Whitney Thomas
and headed inside with them. I
told them my plight, and that I was just going to head back and wait it
out. At some point Carissa told me that Meek Mill was with Miley. So we
arranged to meet there. I discovered MM was having a free concert (sponsored by Puma), as
Sigma Sound and lots of people were tweeting it out. I went in, and Carissa
stayed outside. I called my friends to tell them about the Meek Mills concert and they came over. Shout out to my girls who alerted me to epicness.
After Liam exited his “Dressing Room”, the security guards blocked him again, and I said Liam come on, I barely bother you, it’s the last day can I get a couple shots. Those shots will show up today on the wire service, so look for them. Then I went to take pixs with the fans and Liam, after I took this photo Liam said my flash was too bright and wanted the girls to use their own camera, and asked me not to take any shots as it was hurting his eyes.(Liam could have gotten his engagement ring at H Bandi Jewelers)

 Then this dedicated fan asked for a photo, Liam said he was late for the set and had to go. She stayed behind as Carissa and I ventured out to see if we could find Miley. 

I headed upstairs, and then gave directions to Carissa to the studio. I told her I’d be down after the concert. Within 5 minutes of Carissa arriving she got this shot & text me to tell me. OMG I couldn’t believe it, but I didn’t want to go outside and see if Miley was still there, or wait another 30 minutes for her next ciggy break cause I didn’t want to miss Meek Mill. I thought oh boy another Carissa photo for the blog and Fox 29, I prefer to use my own.
Meek Mill killed it. Just today it came out in the Inky that a judge said he couldn’t tour for the next 30 days because of probation on a gun violation. Well his concert was awesome. Miley was there, toe tapping, and swaying to the music, especially to 
I got a a bad bitch in my Chevy
Selling Miley Cyrus in my brand new Monte Carlo
I got that Justin Bieber please believe it

Producers at Sigma Sound working on Miley’s CD (& have worked with Rhianna, Nikki Minaj, TI, the list goes on) Ronny FLIP Colson, Pop Wansel (Oak wud not pictured) & some annoying chick who ruined a million dollar photo, ugh not funny.

 As she was leaving to return to her studio session downstairs, I caught up with her and got a few shots. I asked her how her stay in Philly was and she told me she loved cutting her single at Sigma Sound as there was so much inspiration there. There’s always something going on at Sigma Sound. Ain’t that the truth Meek Mill’s in the house, oh and Miley Cyrus. Epic and worth the 4 months I had to wait to tell you. (I like to call this shot – Self Portrait. As a paralegal, slash blogger, it’s hard to get an exclusive in this day and age of twitter, cell phones and good old fashion gossip. It might not be the cure for cancer, but I was excited for it. THANK YOU to all those who helped me get this story, get this picture and the fan-girls who inspire me.)

Categories
Philadelphia

Holy Cow Game Changer: Red Owl Tavern, Hotel Monaco Philadelphia and The Stratus Lounge

Lately on twitter I’ve been using Holy Cow to really get across notable moments, and extraordinary things of interest. The Red Owl Tavern, Stratus Lounge and Hotel Monaco Philadelphia fits that definition; separately or together it’s a big Holy Cow game changer for Philadelphia.

It’s hard to believe that it was only a year ago when I took this photo at the “groundbreaking” of the 
Hotel Monaco Philadelphia. (This is looking towards what is now the Red
Owl Tavern restaurant with it’s grand windows over looking Independence
Hall and the Liberty Bell) Jack Ferguson, President & CEO of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PCVB), Nick Gregory, General Manager Hotel Monaco Philadelphia – Director of Operations at Kimpton Hotels (standing),  Kimpton’s President and COO, Niki Leondakis, The honorable Mayor Nutter and Meryl Levitz, CEO Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (GPTMC) 

Last night I attended one of the Friends and Family nights for Philly’s
latest and one of the most anticipated new restaurants, Red Owl Tavern, part of the
new Kimpton’s Hotel Monaco opening next week at 5th and Chestnut.  I can’t remember the last time a restaurant in a hotel was so highly anticipated with the exception of Eric Ripert’s 10 Arts at the Ritz Hotel with Chef Jen Carroll. (BTW Top Chef’s new reality show  “Life After Top Chef” debuts tonight on Bravo at 10PM. I’ll be in two episodes, the first one airs on October 17.)

What’s interesting about the Kimpton brand is the branding of their restaurants. They are stand alone, meaning they have an entrance that fronts the street welcoming guests through the front door without having to go through the lobby. Their other property in the City, Hotel Palomar Philadelphia also has a restaurant with a door on the street, Square 1682 17th and Sansom Streets. Another restaurant in the City that does very well, and with this concept is a.kitchen, which is part of the long term stay hotel AKA Rittenhouse.

Guillermo Tellez Cruz, executive chef Red Owl Tavern, and Stratus Lounge (he will continue to oversee Square 1682 too) last night prepping orders for the packed house.

 Michael DeGano, Director of Restaurant Operations at Kimpton Hotels., Chef Guillermo Tellez Cruz and Erik Travers, the Restaurant Operations Director of the Red Owl Tavern in the Hotel Monaco

Jack Reilly, Legend Properties, Natalie Pineda, General Manager of Red Owl Tavern and Diane Farina, Starr Restaurants

Jimmy Contreras, VlahosPR Sandy Foxx and Matt Vlahos, VlahosPR who does the PR for Red Owl Tavern and Stratus Lounge

Kimberly M. Ciesla and Robert N. Johnson, both of Anne Klein Communications Group.

Nikki Vlahos and Stevie Wagner

Dileimys Franco and Angela Giampolo (or as I like to call her, my lawyer.)

Kristen Foote and Nicole Cashman, Cashman & Assocs. Nicole does the PR for Hotel Monaco Philadelphia and Hotel Palomar.

Dinner was delicious. My friend Kristyn Aldrich and I shared a steak, a chicken pot pie (that was outta this world), the Red Owl Salad – hmm hmm good and a cherry pie that is the size of the ones you would get at More Than Just Ice Cream. Above is the fruit tart and a peanut butter chocolate whoopie.

Then we were whisked to the 11th floor and the Stratus Lounge. WOW I was so surprised at how amazing the space was. Lately all I kept hearing was negative nelly stuff like there’s no direct view of the skyline, but even with the fog and mist I could see the buildings. More importantly though it was outdoors, it was beautifully decorated with plenty of seating; it’s dope.

This is the bar area, which is under a roof with garage like doors with windows that close in inclement weather.

 The whole outdoor area is heated with heat lamps when necessary.

Kristyn standing in the future DJ area. There’s not a dance floor per se, but it’s a lounge and toe tapping is encouraged.

There are two enclosed pavilions at either end of Stratus Lounge, these used to be storage buildings for the historic Lafayette Building which is the Monaco Hotel, capacity for each is about 60 people, with windows that overlook Independence Mall, seating for about 30 in areas that are reminiscence of VIP bottle service, but there is no bottle service here, no minimum if you and friends are out for the evening.  It’s like getting VIP bottle service, but what is the normal service at a Kimpton property. They can also be rented out for private parties for a reasonable amount that includes a food and beverage amount. See John Christinzio, Lounge GM for more info.

Vapor – is the more sleek of the two pavilions, with it’s black and white decor, TV’s, many couches and a few tables;  It’s more intimate. I took the above shot with a flash, this is the room where you wanna listen to some Barry White with your boo.

Mist is bright and white. There’s a nice size community table running the length of the room, comfortable white chairs that might make your mother cringe if you drink red red wine in this room. The two windows have a great view of the Constitution Center, but no one’s gonna be looking out them except me, cause the action will be happening in the room. It’s the see and be seen room, it’s well lit.

Looking towards Vapor. There are conversation pits, a long couch and a 30 foot fireplace for those cozy nights with that special someone. The Stratus Lounge reeks of romance, as well as a great place to go with friends. There’s a lot of options on the roof top. It reminds me of Hop Sing Laundromat but outdoors. It’s a little bit off the beaten track, but it’s worth the trip.

In anticipating this property over the year I was wondering if it would attract locals or just remain a hotel property where guests are the predominately users of the restaurant and lounge. I’m here to tell you that this is going to be one hot property.  Red Owl Tavern has a diverse menu that will keep it’s hotel guests happy, as well as the locals. It’s eclectic like Square Peg, but still has standard fare that even little Mary would want to try. Stratus Lounge will be a destination point, where hotel guests, locals and people from the tri-state area will want to check out the scene, all year long and then tell there friends.

As I tweeted in the cab drive home last night:

Honestly the entire Hotel Monaco complex sets a new
standard for Philadelphia. It’s sophisticated, whimsical and delicious.

The hotel is gorgeous, the lobby reminds me of falling down the rabbit hole in Alice in Wonderland.

Here are a couple links to photos & stories by the Foodies of Philly on Red Owl Tavern and The Stratus Lounge.
Michael Klein
City Paper – Stratus Lounge Menu
Foobooz – Red Owl Tavern Menu

Zagats
uwishunu – Monaco Hotel Philadelphia

Categories
Philadelphia

WALGREENS COMES TO ONE SOUTH BROAD, this is not your mother’s drugstore – Details, Sketches & Floor Plans

It’s Opened now & This is what it looks like August 2013 (CLICK THIS LINK)
I’m excited that something is going in at this location. Ever since this location (Broad & Chestnut) became empty I started doing serious research to see if anyone was interested in renting it. I thought it would move quickly as it’s the last of the red hot corners left in Philly. Usually I would put out my findings on Twitter @iphillychitchat and you might recall me saying that the Cheesecake Factory looked into it, but there was not parking, plus they felt that the mezzanine level was seen as wasted space. The other night I asked Pete Ciarrocchi, owner of Chickie’s & Pete’s if he could set up shop there, same answer he wanted parking. Then I heard the Container Store looked at it, but they said there was no parking for customer purchase pick up. They really reached out to a lot of companies to get the space filled.
In December I read on PhiladelphiaSpeaks that Walgreens wanted the spot. My research went into high gear, and I talked to a few people who told me that indeed Walgreens had wanted it for months, but the City kept rejecting them (PCC December entry) because this was the Avenue of the Arts, and that property is a crown jewel, the business that goes in there has to be upscale. I’m here to tell you it’s happening, and it’s not you’re mother’s Walgreens, it’s a really unique business concept. One that other cities will look to for direction.
It’s more like a superstore upscale Walgreens, and not only are the first floor windows not going to be blocked, like they are at most Walgreens (and a major contention with the City), but at no level will the windows be block, leaving the charm of the building intact. That is something new & big in the design of Walgreens. I applaud them.
“Accessory to the following: retail sales of groceries, bakery goods
& pre-packaged foods & beverages,  accessory photographic
processing and printing; take out restaurant with seating (sales
& preparing & serving of hold & cold food & beverages
in/on disposable ware for eat in & take out  less than 30 seats)
w/ garbage disposal in kitchen & interior trash storage  all on the
first floor; retail sales of groceries, bakery goods & pre-packaged
foods & beverages;


take out restaurant with seating ( sales
& preparing & serving of prepared hot & code foods &
beverages in/ on disposable ware for eat in and take out , less than 30
seats), w/ garbage disposal in kitchen & interior trash
storage on second floor; retail sales of fragrances, cosmetics and
beauty supplies and general merchandise; beauty salon (hair, nails & facials)
& retail sales of related accessories & products; retail sales
of magazines, books, appliances & electronics; retail pharmacy
(drugs & medicines with accessory nonprescription health products
& accessories), consulting room & customer patient examination area (treatment of patients on the third floors), all one tenant.” (I took this description from Naked Philly as they always do a nice job breaking it down)
Click to make larger. If you use them link back to me please.

The First Floor is called Eat Well. This is where you will find customer service,   buy your prepared foods, convenience foods, get photo services, bury magazines, candy, greeting cards, Wine and Beer.  All those items you need in a jiffy. On the right side is the mezzanine section, and it will be the “Up Market” a cafe, juice and sushi bar. (WOW, just wow)

Click to make larger. If you use them link back to me please.

The Third Level is divided in several sections: Bridge Pharmacy, Well- Over the counter medications; Look Boutique- high end cosmetics, hair products etc; Nail and Hair Salon; Beautiful – mass cosmetics and skin care brands,  Personal Care and Daily Living – Daily living essentials, household items and greeting cards.

 Update: As I told you back in May, it was a done deal. No matter how many people tried to tell me it wasn’t, even at the Great Chef’s Event, I told them it was going through, and today in Philly Deals they report it’s passed zoning and it’s a done deal. I would rather have something occupy that corner, then leave it empty. Plus it’s radically different than any other Walgreens or store..

P.S. – Remember when I predicted Bart Blatstein would want to build a casino on North Broad Street. I still predict he will purchase the School Board Building to complete his dream.

P.S.S.- Thanks to all those who helped me put this story together over the last 6 months. 

Categories
Philadelphia

ERIN GO BYE (NBC10’s Erin Como Bids Good Bye To Philly)

Epic Saturday Night, whoever ask, I took their photo. I didn’t have a pad on moi so I didn’t capture names. Goodbye my sweet Erin, and by sweet I mean she is one of the nicest girls you will ever meet. She and her beau Danny are off to Nashville where she will start working at Fox 17 starting Monday.  I’ve already plotted my trip for July.

Saturday Night was alright. I was headed out to my friend Erin como’s going away party, but stopped by Serafina to take a photo of a bachelorette party.   My friend Colleen Walsh Spangler, 3rd from left, called a few weeks ago and asked where was a hot spot to go for the party and Serafina was one of my choices, then Whisper (1712 Walnut) for dancing. I continued walking by Rittenhouse Row I ran into a handful of people enjoying the evening. the place was buzzing, it got me excited as I wanted to see who was out with who and where (Although my dinner friends I swear I was walking fast cause I was late for dinner.)

Lindsey Napikoski Tara Malone Lesley Spriggs Joanna DiCiurcio Erin McMullen Jamie Hilton Anna Yocum Fazio Ashtyn Napikoski 

 Speaking of Bacherlor’s here’s Reid Rosenthal, serving the real estate needs of Philadelphia, PA, and the surrounding suburbs., he was on ABC’s Bacherlor Show.  He’s hanging with Samantha Trasatti

 I was to meet Erin and crew at La Viola, but popped into the wrong one first (they have two restaurants across the street from each other on 16th St) I ran into David Carroll (Bar Noir, Rogues Gallery)(backrow) and his birthday party.  There’s Jack Eldridge and Mary Beth Hallman, Lippincott House Bed & Breakfast in Rittenhouse Square, and singer/actress Erika Schiff in the foreground.

Finally found the right spot. Sitting Erin Como, Maria Papadakis, her fiance Brenden Kent, then there’s , Camille Cwienkala (director of operations, LNS) and Danny Schuyler standing

Lt John Walker, Erin Como, Danny Schuyler, Alissa Ingram (exec producer at NBC 10),  TONY, Maria Papadakis, Brenden Kent, and Camille Cwienkala BTW La Viola packed like I’ve never seen a restaurant. Plus it’s BYOB, the bill for 7 people $200

Danny and friends. I think this is Bucca, I was walking by and didn’t notice it. Looks good though.

WTF: Chest bumping in Opa Restaurant. (Is this how construction works say hello?)
 Livin La Vida Smokin’ –   Jen Sherlock, Erin Como, Susie Celek and Julie Dorenbos

Before Jon Dorenbos arrived, this guy on the left came up to us and showed us a few magic tricks. Reminded me of Jon, so when he came in I did the introductions and the two spent a good amount of time discussing the biz. so random. 

Alissa Ingram (exec producer at NBC 10), Kristen Johanson,L&S, Big Rube, and Erin Como. I was impressed how packed Opa was on a Saturday night. They have a great DJ too. Some peeps broke out in dance. Nicole Rossi was grooving as was

NBC10 reporter Cydney Long and her husband
After Opa we headed to G Lounge for a little dancing (when you’re sleeping or at home at 1AM, this is what 15th & Sansom looks like. Exciting chaos.)

Big Rube sees fashion every where
Waylon Nelson and Chris

Blame it on the night time


Erin Como and Fred Calang – co-hosts of RAW the monthly art event on the last Thursday of the month at G Lounge (Check out Raw Monday at Vlannis)

Tim Nork and

Marisa Magnatta and Ron Zawadsky in love and in the Vault. I forgot Justin Pizzi and Dawn Timmeney were both at Opa. Justin introduced me to Erin, but it was Marisa that really connected us. thanks you two. I do have a handful of really excellent girlfriends, like Marisa, but Erin was a jewel and I don’t think anyone would discount that. How lucky we are to know such a kind, warm, wonderful person. I’ve never heard her say a mean thing about anyone, which was very irritating.

PhillyChitChat followers, sweet as can be

Random Peeps wanted their photo taken in the Vault at G Lounge
Random guy wanted his photo taken
Erin and Danny – we love you!!

Thanks to my sponsors: For great limousine service try Secrets Limo.
Having a party, need a photo booth rent a Cool Pix Photo Booth
Need a wedding band, no not that kind, a musical kind CTO Entertainment is for you. Plus
they have DJ’s all the way down to a guy playing a keyboard for your party or
event. (I was just at an event at Tiffany’s Jewelers and there was a guy
playing the keyboard for entertainment & he was from CTO.  Mother’s Day is coming up, I think Teuscher’s Chocolate’s would be
perfect. How about taking mom to the Top of The Tower for a delicious
Brunch on her day May 13, 2012. Father’s Day is coming up, you need a signed
jersey from a Phillies player, a framed photo signed by an Eagles player get it
at the Philly’s Sports Cave.

Categories
Philadelphia

CABBIE HAS HIS OWN DEMOLITION DERBY ON 19TH STREET BTWN CHESTNUT & MARKET

I know this ugly facade & signage would make anyone’s head explode, but more than likely it was a Demi Moore moment that caused some cab driver to create his own demolition derby on 19th Street near Smith Bar & Restaurant.
I came upon this scene last night, 90 minutes after it happened. A cabbie turned left off Chestnut Street going the wrong way down 19th Street towards Market.and caused a mess. Instead of just stopping after he realized his mistake, he swerved to the left and in a series of chain reactions,starting with side swiping this carhit a car immediately behind it (not pictured here) and riding up on it, as well as pushing into the next two cars.resulting in a whole lotta damage (this is the car the cab rode up on). Can you imagine parking your car, paying the PPA and enjoying a Saturday night out and coming back to this.
I hear the cabbie tried to run away but was caught by a few bystanders and held until the cops came by. (This is the 3rd car.) Oh wait, thanks to a reader I have the 4th and last carbroken axle (1st car), behind that someone’s entire exhaust system. The person who owned this red Volt, did not come and claim their car, so it wasn’t towed. Someone left a note on it that said, there was an accident while you were gone. Call this number for info & a tow.I noticed the meter was running on the cab still, so were there passengers in the cab? There were no news vans on the scene, but hopefully the details will come out. The receipt before this fare was timed stamped at 23:06PM. I walked by about 12:30AM I’ve heard cabbies are notoriously under insured. I wonder how this one will play (pay) out.