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
The Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation launch of their Phambassadors program. This initiative seeks to enlist more than 10,000 enthusiastic advocates for Philadelphia over the next two years, building a vibrant community whose civic pride and impact will help define how the city is perceived and experienced in 2026 and into the future.
I was asked to be one of the super Pham’s to help get the initial word out to folks like me, and you who are huge fans of Philadelphia.
The event kicked off with a pep rally worthy of Philadelphia, with mascots, a drum line,
Swoop, Fang and legendary radio personality Patty Jackson
Philadelphia dignitaries and most importantly PHILADELPHIANS!!
Max Weisman, Comm Director for Isaiah Thomas and Brenda Exon, The Philly Flag Lady. founder of the nonprofit Partners for Civic Pride. She is known for promoting the history and display of Philadelphia’s city flag and fostering civic pride. Exon also wears costumes inspired by the flag’s design to educate children about its significance.
Invested Phambassadors who progress through the program will be invited to participate in Pham Camp, an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience designed to deepen participants’ love for Philly and equip them with the knowledge and inspiration to share it with the world.
Nicole Cashman and Cashman & Associates was on hand to organize the event, and corral the parade participants as they entered Love Park for the rally.
Councilman Mark Squilla, City Rep Jazelle Jones with Ben Fileccia (c) Senior Vice President | Strategy and Engagement at the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association
With a nostalgic nod to summer camp, Pham Camp brings people together through discovery, celebration, and hands-on learning. Phambassadors will gain insider access, discover hidden gems, and tap into the vibrant energy that sets Philadelphia apart, leaving them inspired, informed, and ready to represent the city. There’s also a Pham Clubhouse, located at 15th and JFK at that visitor center.
Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation
“Philadelphia has an X Factor—a grit, passion, and an undeniable energy that only those who have experienced it can understand. But too often, the outside world sees an incomplete version of our city’s story. The Phambassador program is here to change that,” said Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO of Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. “This initiative will create a powerful platform that unites Philadelphia’s most passionate advocates to amplify the city’s strengths and redefine its global reputation.”
The Phambassador program is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing participants to engage at different levels based on their interest and availability.
“As we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, we have an incredible opportunity to tap into the people who know Philadelphia best — our residents — to amplify and celebrate everything that makes our city so special,” said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “The Phambassador program is a powerful extension of Visit Philadelphia’s Civic Pride work, which treats the city itself as our sixth team — one we root for through good times and bad. We’re unlocking the pride that already lives here, giving residents more ways to share their stories, represent their neighborhoods and show off their favorite small businesses. There’s nothing like Philadelphia pride, and we’re thrilled to team up with the Visitor Center to bring this to life.”
Phambassador Michelle Freeman, Witty Gritty and Ronnie Polaneczky, the Phambassadors Organizational Recruitment Outreach Strategist,
Whether by supporting civic events and promoting good news online, volunteering to welcome visitors at key events, or helping uncover Philadelphia’s hidden gems, there is a place for everyone in this citywide movement.
Sheila Hess a natural selection for a Phambassador. Does anyone love this City more than she. She’s also the coordinator for us super Pham’s.
Don’t forget to stop by the Selfie Station at 16th and JFK, as Kathryn, Nicole and Matt Ray, Chatterblast did yesterday.
COME JOIN ME: If you’re interested in becoming a part of this exciting movement, head to www.phambassador.com/sign-the-pledge to sign up and receive updates on upcoming events, exclusive experiences, and ways to get involved.
As a Phambassador, you’ll join a dynamic community of people who care deeply about Philadelphia—its culture, neighborhoods, and future. You’ll have the chance to connect with others, share your voice, and help showcase what makes Philly such a vibrant and welcoming city.
To learn more or to officially become a Phambassador, visit www.phambassador.com. Follow @phl.phambassadors on social media and use the hashtags #JoinThePham and #Phambassadors to stay in the loop. Look out for Phambassadors popping up at beloved Philly events all through May, including First Friday in Old City and the Independence Blue Cross Broad Street Run Expo, with more appearances to be announced.
It’s back, Philadelphia’s longest-running and most beloved dining event is back and marking a major anniversary! Action Wellness presents the 35th Annual Dining Out for Life® on Thursday, April 24, 2025, featuring over 40 participating restaurants. I remember going to the first one, where only a handful of restaurants participated, but the following year it was a Citywide celebration, with a lot of support.
Philadelphia’s longest-running and most beloved dining event is back and marking a major anniversary!
Action Wellness presents the 35th Annual Dining Out for Life® on Thursday, April 24, 2025, featuring over 40 participating restaurants.
For 2025, this year’s restaurant line-up reads like a who’s who of the region’s most award-winning restaurants, with notable names such as Barclay Prime, Bistro Romano, Buddakan, Butcher and Singer, DaVinci & Yu, El Vez, Frankford Hall, Gilda, Giorgio on Pine,Good Dog Bar, LMNO, The Love, Mamajuana Cafe, Morimoto, P’unk Burger, P.J. Clarke’s, Parc, Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti, Sophie’s BBQ, Stina, Talula’s Garden, Taqueria Amor, The Continental Midtown, The Dandelion, Villa Di Roma, Wilder and many more. Hours vary by restaurant. Reservations are encouraged in advance.
“My favorite part of the event is the community aspect and simplicity of it,” said Action Wellness Development Coordinator Kevin Vuernick. “I have made it a point to dine out during this event for as long as I can remember. Inevitably you always see a longtime friend or acquaintance who is also dining out to support the cause. Going out to eat is something so many of us do regularly without thinking about it. The hardest part for me is deciding where to eat! The decision about whether to go to an old familiar haunt or go to one of the wonderful new places or somewhere I have yet to try is always the most difficult. But each year the one thing I know is it is always so rewarding.”
Funds raised from Dining Out For Life (DOFL) Philadelphia go to Action Wellness to support more than 2,000 clients and their families through the provision of life-sustaining services. HIV and its impact is felt especially by those in low-income and historically marginalized communities. According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health there are 18,000 people living with HIV in Philadelphia.
For a full list of restaurants or to make an advance donation, visit diningoutforlife dot com/Philadelphia. Watch for updates by following on social media at @DineOut4LifePHL and share your meal using #DOFL2025 #DineOutEndHIV.
Super Bowl Champ Brandon Graham Launches Crooked Tea in Philly at Ladder 15
Over the weekend, the Crooked Tea 🍋 team made a big splash in Philly, teaming up with two-time Lombardi Trophy winner and former Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham,
who brought the energy to Ladder 15 in Center City on Saturday, April 12, to celebrate the official launch of Crooked Tea, a new hard iced tea brand.
Brandon rolled deep with lots of fans, influencers, and friends
Saturday night quickly turned into an unforgettable Philly moment when Brandon surprised everyone by hopping behind the bar and passing out cans of Crooked Tea.
The crowd got the full Crooked Tea experience—chilled cans, live selfies, nonstop laughs, and a taste of what the brand stands for: bold flavor, high energy, and unapologetic vibes.
The inaugural Philadelphia Montessori Charter School (PMCS ) “Montessori Moves” was held on March 8th at Vie. Over $100,000 was raised to support the Philadelphia Montessori Charter School. Think Philly dancing with the stars-style event where 8 philanthropic/business leaders showed off their best moves!
Amanda Wilson (Ex Dir of Montessori Charter School of Philadelphia) and Carmelina Berardi (winner raising most money raise $24,000 )
PMCS excels at providing children in Kindergarten through 4th grade with a Montessori education in an environment that nurtures the whole child, celebrates inclusion, embraces innovation, and encourages collaboration with families. Carmelina Berardi won top fundraiser and Stefanie McCarthy and Gretchen Ralston tied for best dance!
Laura and Justin Stefanick
Nick and Kristen Pantaleo
Tali Shani Ben-david makes her moves
Natelie Jackson and Stephanie Williams
Laurie Trongone, Camille Doherty, Andrea Ronca and Amy Ritter
Dominique Yannuzzi, Anna Iuliano, Liliana Dicicco and Carmelina Berardi
Dana Fiumara,, Jason Manus and Jill Longstreth
Ryan and Kate Banks
Jalen Millevoix and Avi Ben David
Julie Lynn and Jennifer Sherlock
Jen chose bachata as I’ve always wanted to learn this sensual style dance. “Thanks to @stormballroomdancecentre for everything they showed me including a sense of community.” She raised over $4,000 for the kids.
Serena Saunders, Ahyana King and Michelle Hamilton
Carmelina Berardi: “Wow, what a magical night! Thank you so much to everyone who supported me by donating money and attending the event! With your help, I was able to raise $24,000 for @pmcs2227 and learn some new moves too! Thank you to my instructor @eric_groysman@vibe_dancesport and to @lynsie.feinberg for putting together such an amazing event! Special thank you to the best cheering squad ever, my @shopskirt girls and my friends and family who are always there to support me, Grazie di cuore 💗”
