A Wilder Future: Philadelphia Zoo Gala Lights Up the City
On September 30, 2025, the venerable grounds of the Philadelphia Zoo transformed into one of the city’s most elegant philanthropic gatherings of the fall: A Wilder Future. Under canopy of trees, dotted lanterns and the hum of conversation, guests arrived for Grazing Hour at 5:00 PM, followed by dinner and program at 7:00 PM, and a dessert reception at 8:45 PM. The evening started among the beasts who roam in the treetops above the walkways. It was a brisk fall night, perfect weather for mingling under the purr of the cats.
Phoebe Wetzel and Leslie Walker
Karen Knecht and Brian Stohecker
Chairs Shaina and Nathaniel P. Hamilton, Jr., and Jennifer and Steve Shea set the tone for the night, assisted by a deep roster of committee members who represent the heart of Philadelphia philanthropy and civic life.
Linda and Steve Korman
Jason and Rachel Cevera
Suzette and Sam Hamilton, Kat Stewart and Daphne Oz
Michael DiBerardinis, Zoo Board Member and Joan Reilly
Jo-Elle Morgerman and Jody Lewis
The event marked a first in several ways: the presentation of the Zoo’s very first Lifetime Achievement Award, and the spotlight on one of its most extraordinary conservation successes — the hatchlings of “Mommy,” the Galápagos tortoise whose young draw global attention.
For the city of Philadelphia this gala is more than a party: it is a signal that conservation, education and social connection are intertwined. Guests weren’t just dressed up—they were investing in the next generation of zoological scientists, in community education, and in a place (our Zoo) that continues to evolve and make headlines.
As the dessert plates cleared and the evening lingered under the glow of the zoo lights, one thing was clear: Philadelphia is ready for a wilder future—one that blends high society with high purpose like the Philadelphia Zoo’s mission of conservation.
Dr Mogerman greeted the guests with a pet rat on her shoulder. A first for a zoo director for me.
Save The Date: LumiNature is back with more breathtaking sights, sounds, and surprises! Open from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. on select nights, November 20 through January 3. INFO & TICKETS HERE, also ride the 100 foot Ferris Wheel, now through 2026!!
I’ll see you at the zoo. It’s not just for summer activities.
The 23rd Annual World Trade Centers Day Celebration was held last Thursday, October 30, at Live Casino. Hosted by World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP), the event celebrates leaders in business, government, and the international community who advance global connections and economic growth.
Jovan Goldstein, JTGoldstein ,Accountants and Business Advisors, Steven Scott Bradley as Chairman of the Board WTCGP and Todd Brown, President/CEO, On Point Enforcement Unit, Inc.
Sheila Hess, Greg Caron, Daecia-jamè Borgia, Jasmine Armstrong and Susan Mills
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker was recognized with the Global Leadership Award, while Harold T. Epps received the Global Equity Award, Karen Dougherty Buchholz, was the recipient of our Walt D’Alessio Legacy Award! and Allen Iverson, was honored with the Global Icon Award.
Karen Dougherty Buchholz, the recipient of our Walt D’Alessio Legacy Award! and Thomas Young is President & CEO of the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia
Karen has played a pivotal role in shaping Philadelphia’s future. She spearheaded the development of the Comcast headquarters campus, championed impact and inclusion through the Joint Diversity Advisory Council and Employee Resource Groups, and continues to inspire the next generation of leaders through the Committee of Seventy Buchholz Fellowship.
Denzell Wallace and Douglas Wallace
Now in its 23rd year, World Trade Centers Day is celebrated by WTCs across the globe as a symbol of peace, prosperity, and collaboration through international trade. The Philadelphia event also serves as WTCGP’s premier fundraiser, supporting its mission to expand international access for businesses and promote inclusive economic growth throughout the region.
Freeway, Allen Iverson, and Thomas Young is President & CEO of the World Trade Center
One of the greatest to ever wear the No. 3, Allen Iverson was honored with the inaugural Global Icon Award from the World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia
Philly’s own Freeway introduced The Answer as a true cultural icon whose influence has resonated around the world.
In his heartfelt remarks, Iverson said he doesn’t see himself as an icon—just someone who hopes to inspire others. He expressed deep gratitude for his family, friends, and everyone who has supported him along the way, adding that even those no longer in his life helped shape the man he is today.
Erin Colgan, Shavonnia Corbin-Johnson and Charlene Vickers
Allen Iverson was the star of the first NBA game I ever saw (I still remember that game in detail) and also a fellow George Town University alumni. Shavonnia posted. Plus the last time they saw each other they of course did a quick #HoyaSaxa chant👌🏾.
Another honoree David Navazio, President of Gentell (Gentell is the largest vertically-integrated wound care company in the world.) with Thomas Young is President & CEO of the World Trade Center
Rhonda and David Cohen; David was on hand to speak on behalf of Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker who was recognized with the Global Leadership Award.
In December, the former ambassador to Canada, David L. Cohen has been named the 2025 Gold Medal for Distinguished Achievement recipient by The Pennsylvania Society. The honor recognizes his extraordinary leadership and lifelong contributions to public service, business, and civic life in Pennsylvania and beyond. The award will be presented during The Pennsylvania Society’s 127th Annual Dinner on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Waldorf Astoria New York, a tradition celebrating those who exemplify the Commonwealth’s spirit of excellence and service. I’m definitely going this year, who else will be there?
Jeremiah Dolph, Lisa and Richard Roffman
As the premier fundraiser for the World Trade Center Greater Philadelphia (WTCGP), this event directly supports our mission to expand international access for businesses of all sizes and to promote inclusive economic growth across the region. Head HERE for more information on the organization. 2026 is going to be a big year for Philly as well as the World Trade Center of Greater Philadelphia!!
And as always, thanks to the sponsors who make all of these great events happen!!
What a fabulous weekend! Darkness fell across the land, and the midnight hour was close at hand. Philly’s streets filled with costumed creatures, ghosts, and ghouls — all out in search of fun, not fright. From Rittenhouse to West Mt Airy, the city came alive in a wild mix of laughter, music, and moonlit mayhem.
Since Halloween fell on a Friday, I made the rounds — stopping by a few new spots I don’t usually hit. First up was Delancey Street, or “the place,” as a reader kindly corrected me. Then over to Michelle and Josh’s haunted wonderland, where despite strong winds, they stayed cheerful, handing out candy to over 1,000 costumed visitors with help from their spirited friends.
Later in the night, I stopped by Mark Nicoletti’s new pad, perched high above the maddening crowds on Sansom Street, where people were waiting up to three hours to get into hot spots like Ladder 15, Pulse, Midnight, and The Wicked. I wrapped up the night at the Henri David Ball, which was just winding down around midnight — it seems most of the costume contests kicked off earlier this year.
Philly never disappoints on Halloween — from spooky streets to sky-high soirees, it was a night (and weekend!) to remember. The creativity, the costumes, and the pure joy of people just having fun together reminded me why I love this city so much. 👻🎉 Until next year, keep your pumpkins glowing and your spirits high! BTW Stay tuned as Lindsay Furman Alexander (r) will be participating in the Dancing for the Stars benefiting Methodist Services January 31, 2026.
Halloween weekend might be over, but the treats keep coming! Biederman’s Philly just announced plans to open a new location inside the former Audrey Claire, more recently the Charley Dove space at 20th and Spruce — set to debut in early 2026. It looks like they’re repainting to capture a deeper hue of blue.
Get ready for more of those famous bagels, lox, and maybe even a little caviar sparkle. 🥯🐟✨
Real estate guru Billy Creagh posted on his IG : After 25 years, the owner of Mixto is hanging up the apron, and this beloved Philly spot is officially on the market at 1141-1143 Pine Street in the Gayborhood. The two-story restaurant features handcrafted woodwork, a 23-foot hood system, and a fully equipped kitchen — a true turnkey opportunity in the heart of the city.
The property will be delivered vacant with all equipment and liquor licenses included, offering plenty of flexibility for its next chapter. Here’s the listing
💔 Philadelphia Weeps for Pierre Robert, the Voice of Rock & Roll
The city weeps at the passing of the iconic voice of rock & roll, a true piece of Philly royalty, and everyone’s friend — Pierre Robert.
I get choked up every time I think about him not being here anymore. Pierre’s warmth, kindness, and boundless energy touched so many of us — from fans who grew up listening to him on the radio to friends who were lucky enough to know him in person.
Pierre was the heart and soul of 93.3 WMMR, where his legendary voice defined generations of Philadelphia rock fans. His passion for music, community, and connection made him unforgettable — a true original whose spirit will echo through this city forever.
Condolences to his many friends, fans, and to all of us who loved him. Rest in peace, Pierre. xoxo 💔🎸
2100 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy in a 2009 photo I took after it was announced the Calder would be built on this location
I’ve been a huge fan of the Calder family ever since the 1990s, when my friend Greta Greenberger, the former tour director of Philadelphia City Hall, introduced me to their work. She even encouraged me to take the classes that led to my becoming an official tour guide. My beat was City Hall, home to 250 Calder sculptures.
When I gave these tours with the Philadelphia Foundation of Architecture, I would highlight the Calder dynasty of artists whose works are embedded in Philadelphia’s landscape. From Alexander Milne Calder’s William Penn crowning City Hall,
to Alexander Stirling Calder’s Swann Memorial Fountain in Logan Circle, to Alexander “Sandy” Calder’s Ghost suspended in the Grand Stair Hall of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, he was best known for his paintings and mobiles which utilized carefully orchestrated weighting to balance, move and suspend each piece in the air.
The newly opened Calder Gardens
Last week, a long-held dream came to life with the official opening of Calder Gardens on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The new sanctuary celebrates the legacy of sculptor Alexander “Sandy” Calder, uniting the visionary architecture of Herzog & de Meuron with the masterful landscapes of Piet Oudolf.
The 1.8-acre site is unlike a traditional museum—its low-slung, curved structure blends into sweeping meadows and gardens filled with more than 250 varieties of perennials and grasses that shift with the seasons, making nature as much a part of the experience as the art itself.
Elan Gentry, guest. Sandy Rower, grandson of Alexander Calder and president and founding director of the foundation, artist Maria Robledo and Holton Rower, grandson of Alexander Calder,
When the Barnes Foundation approached Alexander “Sandy” Rower, Calder’s grandson and president of the Calder Foundation, about creating a museum, his vision was something different: not a museum, but a sanctuary. That idea became Calder Gardens, a one-and-a-half-acre oasis of reflection along Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Pierre and Dominique de Meuron and Jason and Amanda Frantzen – The architects and their wives. I had a nice chat with Jason and Amanda. Jason answered a lot of questions I had about the building and inspiration. Originally it was going to be above ground, but seemed to compete too much with the surrounding area, and hence it was built underground.
Designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, the building itself sinks into the earth, while the surrounding gardens are the work of Piet Oudolf, the celebrated Dutch plantsman behind the High Line and Lurie Garden. At 80, Oudolf remains passionate about the restorative power of nature, noting, “Beauty is what we need in life next to war and all this craziness.” – From Elle Magazine
Ilana Dean, James Claiborne, Nico Hartzell, all of the Barnes Foundation, with Ann Temkin, formerly with the Phila Art Museum, now with Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and Wayne Hendrickson, biophysicist at Columbia University
Calder Gardens represents a distinctive partnership: the Calder Foundation provides the curatorial vision, while the Barnes Foundation contributes administrative and operational expertise through an innovative resource-sharing model.
The building—a gently curved structure with a softly shimmering metal-clad north facade and an understated wood south facade reminiscent of Calder’s own bohemian home in Connecticut—was designed by Pritzker Prize–winning firm Herzog & de Meuron.
In this setting where architecture and nature commune, visitors will find a wide range of works by Calder both inside and outside. The artworks on display will change over time and include rarely seen masterpieces, some on public view for the first time.
Andee Friedrich and Suzanne Deal Booth is a philanthropist, vintner, and an advocate for the preservation of cultural heritage
Interesting, in a departure from the traditional museum approach, wherein didactic information is presented alongside works on view, Calder’s mobiles, stabiles, paintings, and drawings will be presented without labels that provide titles, dates, and texts explaining how best to understand and interpret them. By allowing the artworks to speak for themselves, Calder Gardens proposes an open-ended experience that encourages visitors to take their time and react to Calder’s art in their own way and at their own pace.
Joe Neubauer, Sam and Elizabeth Warshawer
“Calder Gardens is a vision born from passion, persistence, and the belief that Philadelphia deserves this cultural treasure,” says Joe Neubauer, founding board member of the Trustees of Calder Gardens and one of Calder Gardens’ greatest supporters. “In a time of global uncertainty, we came together to create a place where art and nature offer healing, inspiration, and connection—brought to life by three world-class artists: Alexander Calder, Herzog & de Meuron, and Piet Oudolf. I’m deeply proud to have helped bring this to our city for generations to come.”
Ali Perelman, Amaya Capellan, and Marsha Perelman, Calder Gardens Board Chair
Calder Gardens comes alive throughout the year with programs inspired by Calder’s experimental spirit.
Jeanette and Joseph Neubauer Philanthropist, do gooders, we’re lucky to have them in Philadelphia.
From artist-led audio walks and live performances to screenings, readings, and community gatherings, each experience transforms the gardens into a space for exchange and renewal—where culture, nature, and imagination meet.
Tucked within Calder Gardens is a quiet nook that pays homage to the Calder lineage, celebrating Alexander Calder alongside his father, Alexander Stirling Calder and grandfather, Alexander Milne Calder, who each left their own artistic mark.
Susan Braeuer Dam, Director of Research and Publications at Calder Foundation and Director of Archives at Calder Foundation
At ground level, visitors can step into an outdoor space where a porous wall invites nature to take over. Over the next five years, it will slowly transform, becoming a living wall of vibrant greenery.
Artist Holton Rower, grandson of Alexander Calder and his artist wife Maria Robledo walk through the newly opened Calder Gardens
Thank you. Walk, don’t run to experience Calder Gardens. If Philadelphia wasn’t already firmly on the map for its world-class art museums, Calder Gardens (and yes, forgive me if I call it a museum) will secure its place as a premier art destination. The building and grounds alone are breathtaking, but inside, the Calder works themselves are nothing short of spectacular. With pieces rotating in and out on loan from the foundation, private collections, and museums around the globe every visit offers something new to discover. Deep gratitude to everyone who shepherded this masterpiece from vision to reality.
The bike Race Is Back!! And I think it’s safe to say: Made in America is now history (it’s been dormant for 3 years, and missed the deadline to file for the 2026 permit); Plus other things to ChitChat, let’s get into it…
It was a good ride 🚴♀️ – it put Philly on the map and gave us unforgettable moments. Fittingly, former Mayor Michael Nutter, who helped bring MIA here, is also behind the return of the Philadelphia Cycling Classic. 🚴♂️
On August 30, 2026, a few days before Made In America would normally be held, we ride into the future — from beats to bikes, Philly keeps showing the world how we do big events. 💙✨
There will be both a 62-mile women’s race and a 120-mile men’s race on the event’s original 14.4-mile circuit.
The race is sponsored by AmeriGas Propane and owned by Race Street Partners, whose organization which not only includes former Mayor Michael Nutter, financier Eric Robbins and business owner Carlos Rogers, with veteran race organizer and pro team manager Robin Morton, principal of g4 Productions, returns as race director. (Press Release)
Did you know that the former First Lady of Philadelphia, Lisa Nutter is an amateur competitive cyclist. She’s the 2024 ICI Masters Track Cycling Worlds Silver Medalist !! 🏆
Another Return: 🐦✨ The chimney swifts are swirling at 19th & Wood around sunset (one street north of Vine Street, near the Free Library), before diving into the old school chimney for the night 🌆🔥 Pro tip: don’t stand right under them… I caught a couple “lucky” 💩 drops last night 😂🍀This phenomenal will continue for at least a week during bird migration.
Speaking of the Free Library, congratulations to former Councilwomen Blondell Reynolds Brown on her autobiography officially being launched tomorrow night at the Philadelphia Free Library at 6:15pm. Get your tickets
Social season has begun, it’s barely been a week but so many fun events have happened. Photos have been distributed to Philly Style Magazine and Main Line Today, but don’t fret this season I will be publishing here as well. Tonight I have the Calder Museum opening, and a very special dinner with friends. Tomorrow. The Salvation Army Luncheon, the Mayor’s Reception, and KYW’s 60th Anniversary Party.
Odin Properties has broken ground on Sepviva Lofts, with many great partnerships involved on local, state and federal levels.
Odin Properties has broken ground on Sepviva Lofts, a $20 million affordable housing project at 2201 E. Tioga St. in Kensington/Harrowgate, near the Tioga Station of the Market-Frankford Line. The 51-unit development, set to open in 2026, will provide homes for residents earning 20–50% of the area’s median income.
Maria Buckley, Peter Dilsheimer, Development Manager at Odin Properties Cody Worthington, Development and Acquisitions Analyst at Odin Properties, Philip Balderston, Founder and CEO of Odin Properties and Isabelle Harvey
This is great news for Philly as the four-story project will offer a mix of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom apartments with long-term deed restrictions that keep the homes affordable for at least 40 years.
Lukas Kulikauskas, Tom Young, Scott Lyons and Thomas Pyle – Domus Construction
Construction is slated to finish by late 2026, with plans including 44 parking spaces and a new on-site play area.
Liquitta Robinson andBianca Waliddin, is Executive Director of Liberty Housing Development Corporation
Financing includes federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits; Odin says Sepviva Lofts is Philadelphia’s first 9% LIHTC construction closing of 2025, utilizing the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency’s 2024 allocation.
Ryan Sanders, Manager, Union II Operations and Rachael Pritzker, Esq.
The Sepviva Lofts project is transforming a long-vacant industrial parcel that once housed Penn Galvanizing into a vibrant new residential community.
Klissa Thomas, Advocate for Youth and Families and Jasmine Sessoms
This marks Odin’s first ground-up affordable development, a significant milestone for a company that has primarily focused on adaptive reuse projects like Collins Lofts and East Tioga Lofts.
Ed Hillis, Founder & President of DOMUS, Michael Johns, public architect with the Philadelphia Housing Authority and Anne Fadullon, Senior Advisor at Spring Garden Capital Advisors and as the Founder and Principal Partner of MAKE Advisory Services, LLC.
Sepviva Lofts also fits into Odin’s broader pipeline of roughly 250 affordable units planned across Philadelphia and Atlantic City, signaling a deeper commitment to creating sustainable, community-focused housing options in neighborhoods where investment and opportunity are needed most.
Joseph DeFelice, HUD Assistant Deputy Secretary for FPM and Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator. and Councilman Mike Driscoll
Joseph DeFelice told the guests that he was personally excited for this project as he, and his wife were raised in this area.
Business leaders including David Thomas, President and CEO of PHDC, Blane Stoddard, Managing Principal of RB Development, Robin Wiessman, Executive Director & CEO of PHEA, Jessie Lawrence, Director of Planning and Developement, office of Mayor Cherelle L Parker, break ground on Sepviva Lofts in Kennsington
Excited for the future of much needed affordable housing in Philadelphia
RUMOR MILL: Abbott Elementary’s Quinta Brunson hinted at Comic-Con that Philly sports fans would love what’s coming — and it looks like Citizens Bank Park is about to take the spotlight. From what I’m hearing, Abbott Elementary is filming their big “live event” next Thursday and/or Friday at the @phillies – @braves game. ⚾️⚾️
Although rehearsals and extras will be filming on Wednesday at CBP as well.
Speaking of good things, Sunday August 24, 2025, Sen. Vincent Hughes and the first lady of the 7th district Sheryl Lee Ralph will be hosting “Men in the Classroom: with Read to Succeed and The Center for Black Educator Development with appearances by William Stanford Davis best known for his role as school custodian Mr. Johnson on the popular ABC sitcom, along with Dr Tony Watlington, School Superintendent. See you Sunday!!
Remember to catch me on the Fox29 App with Drew Anderson at 10AM on Sunday, and hear about what’s coming up during the fall social season.
Welcome to Unit 3102 at 10 Rittenhouse — a spectacular, nearly full-floor residence offering approximately 5,400 square feet of light-filled luxury with breathtaking views over the iconic Rittenhouse Square. This one-of-a-kind home combines the spacious feel of a modern townhome with the sophistication, service, and security of one of Philadelphia’s most prestigious addresses.
View of Rittenhouse Square and Delaware River from the south facing balcony
What makes this property truly exceptional? Let’s start with parking — a rarity in Center City. This unit comes with four garage spaces, including two ultra-rare self-park spots inside the building, plus two valet spaces. Whether you’re commuting daily or hosting guests, you’ll have the kind of flexibility most city dwellers can only dream of.
Step inside, and you’re greeted with 270-degree skyline views, framed by floor-to-ceiling glass doors and three private balconies. Every room is bathed in natural light, offering a sense of calm and openness. The sleek, modern design emphasizes clean lines and effortless flow throughout the space.
The living and entertaining areas are expansive, featuring a custom-built media wall with a 100″ TV and a hidden door to the AV closet. Nearby, a beautifully crafted bar area awaits — complete with a wine fridge, ice maker, sink, and an oversized walk-in pantry that doubles as a prep kitchen or staging space for events.
The dining area is a standout — perched at the southwest corner, it captures stunning corner-window views and is bathed in warm afternoon light. Perfectly positioned just off the gourmet kitchen, the layout is ideal for both intimate dinners and grand-scale entertaining.
The centerpiece walk-in closet, custom-designed by California Closets, is a dream—both functional and worthy of a magazine spread. Beyond the dressing room, a quiet home office space offers privacy and focus, complete with access to a private balcony that captures the gentle glow of the morning sun and sweeping city views.
The spa-inspired bath invites relaxation, featuring a jetted soaking tub with its own wall-mounted TV, separate water closet, and dual vanities. A third vanity, tucked just beyond the dressing area, provides the perfect spot for morning routines or evening glam.
Across the home, on the west wing, two additional bedroom suites are tucked beyond a cozy den, each with its own en-suite bathroom and generous closet space. Whether for guests, family, or an elegant work-from-home setup, these rooms offer flexibility and privacy.
Daily living is made seamless with two separate laundry areas—one discreetly located within the primary suite and another conveniently positioned near the kitchen. Every detail throughout the residence has been considered: automated Lutron lighting, powered sunshades and blackout drapes, and over a dozen individually zoned climate controls for year-round comfort.
At 10 Rittenhouse, you’ll enjoy the finest full-service amenities Philadelphia has to offer, including a 24/7 concierge, chauffeured town car, indoor pool, fitness center, and a private hospitality suite for your guests. The building’s discreet entrance on 18th Street places you steps from the best of Center City—world-class dining, shopping, and culture, all just outside your door.
On Monday, May 12, 2025, the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation (PVCC) presented the second annual Philly Opener—a celebrated, award-winning celebration and fundraiser—at the Independence Visitor Center (599 Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106). The event marks the culmination of National Travel and Tourism Week, uniting industry professionals, community partners, and enthusiastic locals to spotlight the vital role tourism plays in Philadelphia and the surrounding region.
Daniel J. Hilferty is the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Comcast Spectacor, Howie Roseman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Philadelphia Eagles and Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of the Most Valuable Philadelphian (MVP) Award, recognizing an individual who has made a significant impact on the city. This year’s honoree Howie Roseman, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Philadelphia Eagles, whose leadership has not only brought the team to three Super Bowl appearances and two victories in the past eight years, but also elevated Philadelphia’s profile on the global stage.
Cari Feiler Bender, President and Founder of Relief Communications celebrated her birthday last night at the event. here with Kathryn Ott Lovell, President of the Phila Visitor Center
Guests enjoyed the city and state’s iconic destinations with fun activations and photo moments from the Visitor Center and Visit PA. The culinary experience at the event will showcase the best of Philadelphia’s diverse food scene, including a Taste of Reading Terminal Market, a Taste of the Historic District, and a tasting station from James Beard Award-winning chef Jose Garces featuring Buena Onda in collaboration with Mijenta Tequila.
Christian MolnarDirector of Team Relationships Aileen Dagrosa – Eagles Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Marla Axelrod, Vice President, Deputy General Counsel · Philadelphia Eagles and Rachel Weiss, Eagles General Counsel
Colby Roberts and Denise Berry
Dave Birch, Stella Andersen, Sherry Andersen, Katie Burger and Courtney Auster of Pennsylvania State Tourism. A favorite tourism spot they recommend is is Jim Thorpe, especially Penns peak. As well as Bedford Springs especially the Omni Bedford Resort.
The Phambassadors sign up to volunteer at cool Philly events. HERE
Out and About: Laura Burkhardt and James Zeleniak – Founder | CEO – Punch Media PR
Maria Deluca and Annie Allman of the Reading Terminal Market
Andrew Bergman, OIC Philadelphia, Tiffany Tavarez is Vice President, Community Impact and Strategic Partnerships for Jefferson’s Office of Community Impact, Jane Golden, Mural Arts and Lorina Marshall-Blake, President, Independence Blue Cross Foundation, and Vice President of Community Affairs, Independence Blue Cross
Ben and Betsy with Priya Ahmad and Councilmember Nina Ahmad | At Large
Sadie Mendlow, Cashman & Associates, Britini Lettsome (Fav tourist spots – Reading Terminal, Spruce Street Harbor and Magic Garden) and Colleen Murphy, Phila Visitor Center
Councilmembers Mark Squilla and Isaiah ThomasCity Representative Jazelle Jones
Dignitaries proudly spotlighted what makes our city shine: world-class museums, rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and of course, our unbeatable food scene (yes, cheesesteaks included ). But none of it would be as welcoming without the hardworking folks in hospitality — from hotel staff and tour guides to concierges and event pros — who go the extra mile every day.
Thanks to your warm smiles, helpful tips, and hometown pride, guests leave Philly with amazing memories and a desire to come back for more.
Philly’s star is rising — and it’s all thanks to you!
On Saturday, May 4, 2025 guests stepped into spring with style at Andalusia’s annual Garden Party, a festive celebration that paired the elegance of a historic estate with the excitement of the Kentucky Derby.
Attendees sipped cocktails, enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres, and strolled through gardens in full bloom before gathering to watch the Kentucky Derby’s annual “The Run for the Roses.”
Sarah Claytor, Laura Thaylor, Brannon Claytor, David Bayer and John Vick, Executive Director of Andulasia.
Set against the stunning backdrop of this National Historic Landmark, the event supported Andalusia’s mission to preserve, interpret, and make accessible its remarkable gardens and historic buildings to the public.
Nichola Kinch and Megan Biddle
Rev Manuel and Lisa Biagas
Andalusia is part of Philadelphia is America’s Garden Capital: With more than 30 public gardens, arboreta, and historic landscapes all located within 30 miles, the Greater Philadelphia region has more gardens in close proximity than anywhere else on the continent!
John Vick, Executive Director, Adrianna de Svastich, Development & Membership Manager:, Adam Yarsinky, Marketing Manager and Janna Winans, Business Manager:
The Kentucky Derby, often dubbed “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” is a thrilling spectacle that captures the imagination of fans around the world.
From the moment the bugle sounds and the thoroughbreds thunder out of the gate, the adrenaline surged through the crowd at Andulasia as if they were in the Louisville stands.
After the horse race, we continued to walk the grounds, tour the house and enjoy the day. Something you can do as well. – – Andalusia is now open for the 2025 season through November 14. We are open Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, excluding holidays. We are also open on eight Saturdays throughout the year: April 5, April 19, May 17, May 31, June 14, Sept. 13, Oct. 25, and Nov. 1. INFO
