Tag: Philadelphia

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Around Town With HughE

Parkway & Kelly Drive Road Closures 2025

Parkway & Kelly Drive Road Closures 2025 : It’s that time of year along the Parkway and Kelly Drive when Charity Runs, Parades, activations and Regatta’s take place and we need to be prepared to take alternative traffic routes to get around. Here’s the list so far, but I will update it as we go forward.

This Sunday is the Love Run.

What we have so far for interruptions along the Parkway. The City issues press releases for specific road closures as the date approaches. The Kelly Drive Regatta List, below this one, is more complete.

Saturday, April 5 – Hot Chocolate 15K  

Sunday, April 6 – Greek Independence Day Parade  

Sunday, April 20 – Jewish Martyrs Memorial Service  – 16th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway,

Thursday, April 24 – Sunday, April 27 – 2025 Philadelphia Show  

Saturday, April 26 – Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Armenian Heritage Walk   

Thursday, May 1 – The Franklin Institute Gala, 20th street in front of the museum is usually closed from 4pm until 10pm

Friday, May 16 – Sunday, May 18 – Portal to Universal Studios Epic Universe  – Activation on the Art Museum Steps

Saturday, May 24 – Georgian Culture Day  

Saturday, May 3 – MS Walk  

Check Out the Office of Special Events for a listing of Street Closures through out the City. As we approached each date, we will have a better understanding of which streets are affected.

List of major public events.

SCHUYLKILL RIVER SCHEDULE

March 30: 3rd Flick-Horvat Regatta. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-5:30 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.

April 5: College Match Race. Host: Penn H&L M/Drexel M/Temple W (w/ Harvard/Cornell/UD). Time: x:00-x:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.

April 6: 4th Flick-Horvat Regatta. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-5:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.

April 13: 5th Flick-Horvat Regatta. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-5:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.

April 19: Kerr Cup; Blackwell Cup; Wood Hammond Trophy. Host: Drexel + Penn H&L M. Time: x:00 am – x pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.

April 26: College/Club Match Race. Host: St. Joe’s U M&W ; UBC (Bergen/Kelly Cups) + Kelly Cup. Final Time: 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

May 3: College Match Race: Host: St. Joseph’s University Women (w/ Lehigh).  Time: xx am-xx pm

May 3-4: Philadelphia City Championships. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-5:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM & OVERNIGHT.

May 15-17: Schuylkill Navy’s Stotesbury Cup Regatta. Host: Schuylkill Navy. Time: Fri& Sat, 8:00-6:00 pm. (Clear Launching Area and Race Course above Girard by 7:15 am).  KELLY DRIVE CLOSED THURSDAY AT 10 AM AND OVERNIGHT THROUGH SATURDAY.

June 7: Independence Dragon Bat Regatta. Host: Phila Dragon Boat Association. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.

June 14: Schuylkill Navy Regatta. Host: Schuylkill Navy. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.

Jul 4-6: Schuylkill Navy’s Independence Day Regatta. Host: Schuylkill Navy. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM AND OVERNIGHT.

Jul 19: Schuylkill Navy’s Philadelphia Youth Regatta. Host: Schuylkill Navy. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.

Aug 2: Quaker City Regatta.  Time: 8:00-6:00 pm.

Oct 11: Navy Day Regatta. Host: St. Joseph’s University. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM.

Oct 24-26: Head of the Schuylkill Regatta. Host: Head of the Schuylkill. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm. KELLY DRIVE CLOSED AT 6 AM AND OVERNIGHT.

Nov 2: Hidden River Chase. Host: Phila Scholastic Rowing Association. Time: 8:00-6:00 pm.

Nov 27: Schuylkill Navy Run. Host: Schuylkill Navy of Philadelphia. Time: 9:00-11:00 am.

Subscribe to the Schuylkill River Events Google Calendar here.

Save This For Later.

Have a great weekend. See you on Social Media.

Socially Yours, HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Les Dames d’Escoffier Philly

On March 5, the Philadelphia Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier hosted a cocktail party to celebrate their remarkable new members and induct them into the Philadelphia Chapter of Les Dames d’Escoffier.

Alexandra Chermiavsky, Betty Alberts and Mollie Battenyhouse

The Philly chapter is part of  an international network of accomplished women in the food, fine beverage, and hospitality, industries, with members in 40 chapters from London to Hawaii, NYC to Mexico.

Tina Breslow, new member, Dame Lynn Buono , Retired Owner, Founder and Chief Culinary Officer of Feast Your Eyes Catering for 43 years. Consultant and culinary teacher., President and Dame Jacqueline Peccina Kelly Chapter’s co-president (Chef Jacqueline Peccina-Kelly, AKA Chef Jacquie, is the founder of StrEATs of Philly Food Tours, a Michelin-recognized culinary tourism expert. She has helped locals and travelers explore Philadelphia’s wonderfully diverse and culturally rich food scene since 2010.) with Moi. Thanks Mike Toub for taking the photos.

It is very meaningful for the gathering to be at Walnut Hill College, as the school is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Many of their members came through the Restaurant School. (The old name.)

Fran Costigan, Membership Chair with Tiffany DuBois-Morales, a new member
Janet Chrzan, Scholarship Chair/BOD and scholarship recipient Maria Williams

An important part of The Dames mission and their goal is to increase the number of young inspiring chefs, and assisting them with scholarships!

One of our initiatives for scholarship fundraising is the Dining for Dames program that gets off the ground on Tuesday, March 25th. All you have to do is have dinner at the Rittenhouse Grill, ideally with a group of friends. The restaurant will then donate 10% of your bill to our scholarship efforts! Just remember to tell them that you are here for the DAMES 2025. 

Interested in joining ?

Candidates for membership are professional women who have demonstrated leadership and achievement in professional and philanthropic capacities and who have been actively engaged full-time for a minimum of five (5) years in careers in the food, beverage, and hospitality industries.

Dame Fran Costigan, Membership Chair and Dame Susanna Foo

The Philadelphia Dames Chapter is comprised of women that are chefs, restaurant owners, caterers, dietitians, sommeliers, product developers, culinary instructors, food service managers, small business owners, farmers, lawyers, cookbook authors, winemakers, brewers, media spokespeople, food stylists, journalists and more! We all reside in Southeastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, or Northern Delaware. Membership Applicant

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Charity Philly To Do

The return of Black-Tie GayBINGO!

Action Wellness proudly presents the return of Black-Tie GayBINGO! on Saturday, March 22, 2025, starting at 6:30pm, at the Loews Philadelphia’s Regency Ballroom (1200 Market Street). 

Now in its 26th year, Black-Tie GayBINGO! rolls out the glitz and glamour as it continues to raise significant funds for live-saving programs to help those with HIV disease. 

This year’s event holds special significance as AIDS Fund, the original creator of GayBINGO!, will be honored for over 35 years of leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS and for establishing one of Philadelphia’s most iconic fundraising events. 

After passing the torch in late 2024, Action Wellness now takes the helm, ensuring the legacy of GayBINGO! continues to thrive for years to come. 

For this year’s grand return, guests will enjoy a fun-filled evening with: 

* Welcome reception and cocktails

* Silent auction

* Seated dinner with exclusive menu

* Dancing and music

* Musical performance numbers

* GayBINGO! and the famous Bingo Verifying Divas

* Community Award honoring AIDS Fund

“Black-Tie GayBINGO! is an event full of joy, affirmation and love,” said Action Wellness Executive Executive Director Mary Evelyn Torres. “It’s an opportunity to raise money and awareness about ending the HIV epidemic. This is our first year as an organization hosting the event and we are proud to honor AIDS Fund, an organization, like Action Wellness, that has done incredible work while positively impacting the lives of people with HIV over the last 30 years. Please join us for a night of dining, dancing and GayBINGO! with the incredible Bingo Verifying Divas.”

GayBINGO! is the fabulous, irreverent, campy and wildly popular monthly event that has been entertaining Philadelphia audiences for nearly 30 years. The “Best of Philly” award-winning event went on to host tens of thousands of people, attract sold out crowds, garner national attention, and raise millions of dollars.

Guests will enjoy a special cocktail reception, seated dinner with exclusive menu just for the event, music and dancing, and of course rounds of GayBINGO! The Bingo Verifying Divas will of course be on hand and please come ready with the compliments, as they will be looking more glamorous than ever! Two long-time fan favorites and GayBINGO! icons will be on hand to preside over the evening’s festivities. Carlota Ttendant will host the BINGO games, and Stella D’Oro will serve as hostess of the awards and program.

During the night, guests can help raise additional funds through a silent auction featuring gift cards, prizes and packages from local restaurants, hotels, music venues, museums and local small businesses.

Action Wellness will honor AIDS Fund with the 2025 Black-Tie GayBINGO! Community Award for their work in starting the event and for their work for the Philadelphia community. Former Executive Director Robb Reichard will accept on behalf of AIDS Fund, along with former staff and board members. In December 2024, AIDS Fund announced their decision to conclude operations.

“Founded at the height of the AIDS epidemic, AIDS Fund had been a steadfast force in addressing the challenges of HIV,” said Torres. “After 35 years of dedicated service, AIDS Fund concluded operations in December of 2024. This marked the end of an extraordinary chapter in the fight against HIV in Philadelphia – a chapter defined by resilience, compassion and community driven progress. Their work has been instrumental in raising awareness, supporting individuals and families, and funding critical services during times of crisis.”

GayBINGO! and Black-Tie GayBINGO! have raised over $4M to date and counting. Contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

SAVE THE DATE: Black-Tie GayBINGO! on Saturday, March 22, 2025, starting at 6:30pm, at the Loews Philadelphia’s Regency Ballroom (1200 Market Street). 

Tickets and sponsorship packages are on sale now at aidsfundphilly dot org/gaybingo. For more information and event previews, please follow @actionwellnessphl on social media.

Monthly GayBingo will continue from April to June, before taking a break for the summer season. Events will be held at Congregation Rodeph Shalom, located at 615 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA.

Photos by Jeff Fusco

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Around Town With HughE

PHILLY HOME SHOW 2025

It was another successful Philly home and garden show this weekend in Oaks PA. It’s basically Philadelphia but 45 minutes away. Folks lined up to see celebrities like Christopher Knight, Brady Bunch who has a line of home furnishings Christopher Knight Home and Craig Conover a fan favorite on Bravo’s hit reality series, Southern Charm, who talked about their wares and then meant their fans. How as to check out so many great home and garden ideas on a very chilly weekend in February.

Philly Home + Garden Show, consumers enjoyed fresh inspiration, helpful tips,

innovative products and fantastic deals in remodeling, home improvement, décor, gardening and outdoor spaces with hundreds of experts all under one roof.

DIY workshops at the Make It Take It presented by @little.tall.rulers on Saturday and Sunday of the Show

Sleep with Saquon Barkley with this cool balloon installation.

Michael Knight with a fan

Commiserating with Craig Conover (Bravo’s Southern Charm, Sewing Down South Co-Founder) about my broken shoulder

It was really a great exhibition this year, always great but this year just very informative. Don’t sleep on it next year make sure you go and I’ll say hello!! You still have a few hours left today to go. Sunday, February 23, 2025
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

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Around Town With HughE

Philly Home and Garden Show & Craig Conover

The Philly Home + Garden Show returns to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA for three days only from Friday, February 21st to Sunday, February 23rd. Attendees will find new inspiration, innovative products, helpful tips, and amazing deals in remodeling, home improvements, décor, and outdoor spaces. The event offers opportunities to connect with hundreds of home and garden experts.

Over 300 exhibitors will present a wide variety of products, ranging from home decor and furniture to garden and landscaping items, as well as kitchen and bath essentials. Plus, a vibrant marketplace will allow you to take home something special! If you love turning to HGTV, DIY, and TLC home improvement shows for the latest tips and tricks, you can meet with gardening to home design experts here in person!

Join us to welcome Craig Conover Southern Charm on Bravo and co-founder of Sewing Down South, a rapidly growing Southern lifestyle brand. Craig will be presenting on Friday, February 21st at 6:00 PM and Saturday, February 22nd at 1:00 PM.

Another celebrity attending the show is Christopher Knight, former child actor known for his role as “Peter Brady” on the iconic TV show The Brady Bunch. Today, Christopher is the owner of Christopher Knight Home, a popular online home furnishings brand. He will take the Philly Home + Garden Show stage on Saturday, February 22nd at 11:00 AM and on Sunday, February 23rd at 1:00 PM.

The Barking Lot + Doggy Fashion Show IS RETURNING

Make It, Take it Workshops presented by Little.Tall.Rulers: At the Make It, Take It Workshops, you can craft something special for your home for FREE! Work with local designers, artists, and crafters to explore the latest DIY trends. Ask a Garden Expert: For advice about getting started in the garden, visit the “Ask a Garden Expert” booth in the Garden Hall provided by the Penn State Extension Master Gardeners!

AND SO MUCH MORE!! I’ll be there Saturday taking photos…

BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY!!

Admission is $12 for adults at the event, $10 for adults online until February 20th, and free for children under the age 12. Parking is free at the Philly Home + Garden Show. For all show information and tickets, visit PhillyHomeandGarden.com.

Photos and copy provided by Jenna Communications.

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Around Town With HughE

Chit Chat Holiday Happenings

Happy Holidays doesn’t officially start until the Philadelphia Holiday Tree is lit, and last night it was. WOW the tree is gorgeous. I’m a simple guy, and I love a tree lit in white lights and a beautiful blue star to top it off. (I did love the other tree as well, but it’s like we’re entering a new phase this year.) The base is brand new, simple with the Philly skyline, and words of encouragement like LOVE. It was bitterly cold last night, but that didn’t stop the crowds from coming out to enjoy the festivities with entertainment by Keyshia and Liamani as well as ride the Ferris wheel. Great job Michael DelBene, President & CEO Welcome America and team. (Look for more photos at Metro Philly and CBSPhilly today)

In the past decade, the west and north aprons have come alive with so much activity especially during the holidays. And don’t forget Christmas Village extends to the Center of City Hall, and across the street at Love Park.

Speaking of tree lighting, Old City had theirs on Wednesday and as always the neighborhood really came out to support their efforts. And Old City put on a show. (Old City – Society Hill Films)

Held at Betsy Ross’ house, this year the tree is adorn with red balls, as well as accented with two giant ones at the base.

In November there was a special night opening party of Winter in Franklin Square with a new song which is played along with the dancing fountain during the holiday light show. by The Philly Specials (@jason.kelce, @jordanmailata, & @lanejohnson65 @aphillyspecialchristmas. ) Connor Barwin and Charlie Hall were in attendance to hear Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by The Philly Specials along with the crowd for the first time.

(Photos Cari Feiler Bender)

Amy Needle, the president and CEO of Historic Philadelphia greeting the crowd. Here’s what’s coming up you might be interested in. Jingle and Mingle with Santa (December 7, 12, 14, and 21, 5-7 pm) and bring pets for Santa Paws (December 14, 5-7 pm). On Thursday, December 12, Santa (aka City Councilmember Mark Squilla) will make a special appearance from 5-6 pm. Keep an eye out for Santa near the Franklin Square Fountain, double-checking his naughty and nice lists and posing for elfie-selfies. FREE.

Ben Armstrong, Vice President of Communications & Marketing, PECO.

Winter in Franklin Square, featuring the Electrical Spectacle Light Show presented by PECO, celebrates traditions old and new at this beloved public space. Through February 23, 2025, Winter in Franklin Square. The centerpiece of the festivities is the nightly free Electrical Spectacle Light Show. Guests can cozy up around fire pits with hot beverages, including spiked options for adults, and enjoy Street Curling and Chilly Philly Mini Golf, adorned with lights and seasonal decorations. Visitors can indulge in hand-crafted cocktails and seasonal treats in the pop-up winter bar, Ben On the Rocks. The Square will also host various family holiday events, such as Jingle and Mingle with Santa, Santa Paws, and Brunch with Santa.

Had dinner with PR Santa Kory Aversa at his new client’s the other night – MAMAJUANA CAFE PHILLY, it was delicious, and spicy which hit the spot on a chilly night. I especially loved the Rice Pudding Pops, with this cute little tree, which I learned wasn’t a souvenir but did make a good Instagramable photo.

Philly Social Club’s Helping Hand Charity Cocktail Reception

Thanks to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, in partnership with the nonprofit Kelly’s Kidz (Bob Kelly, Fox29 seen above giving his wish list to Santa), donated hundreds of toys to St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, which will be distributed to patients and families of patients being treated at the hospital this holiday season. Check out photos at Metro Philly and CBSPhilly.

Congratulations to Ray Smeriglio whose longtime partner, fiance, Miguel Martinez-Valle who popped the question to HIM on Wednesday night in front of friends. Traditionally Miguel’s emcees the lighting of the East Passyunk Tree, and they host a party for friends and family, as they did this year, with a surprise proposal to Ray. Earlier this year Ray popped the question to Miguel. NBC10 has the story. Hi to

Shout out to Mark Brown (and his wife), longtime ChitChat reader, and IG follower (msaxbrown). I promised him I would write more on the blog in 2025….Thanks everyone for bearing with me this year. Coverage here was a bit spotty. Mark entertained us at Miguel & Ray’s party on Wednesday night.

So much more happening in the City, follow along on my Instagram account where I update you a few times a day.

Thanks!! Socially yours, xoxo HughE

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Around Town With HughE

Scene: Ignite! 2024 PHLCVB Annual Luncheon

The PHLCVB Annual Luncheon is a popular networking bringing together the tourism and hospitality community to celebrate the year’s successes and recognize its strong positive impact on the city. The event happens every year on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and has been held at the convention center, the Linc, and the art museum. This year it was held at the Franklin Institute.

Gregg Caren PHLCVB President and Larry Dubinski, President and CEO, The Franklin Institute were our hosts for the event.
Mayor Cherelle Parker kicked of the luncheon with a spirited chat about the state of Philly tourism, as well as the future plans underway for Philly’s celebration of America 250th anniversary in 2026, in the auditorium. Followed by speeches by Greg, Larry

and Karen Dougherty Buchholz, PHLCVB Board Chair and Executive Vice President of Administration for Comcast Corporation.

Nearly 1000 hospitality leaders gathered at the annual event held at the Franklin Institute
Angela Val, President & CEO of Visit Philadelphia and Jazelle Jones, City Representative and Director of Special Events
Alba Martinez, Commerce Director of the City of Philadelphia, Crystal Brewe, Ensemble Arts Philly, guest and Ryan Fleur, Ensemble Arts Philly

Photo bombing Job Itzkowitz (l) – Director of Old City District is getting ready for his neighborhoods tree lighting on December 4th, at the Betsy Ross Home in Old City. It’s always a fun time with sugar plum fairies dancing in the street, a visit from Santa and finally the tree lighting about 630pm.

Prema Katari Gupta, Center City District CEO (I had a change to check out the new CCD offices at Chestnut and Broad Street. Beautiful, and the perfect location for them. There’s also a Police substation there as well) and Jasmine Armstrong – Senior Director of Hospitality & Events Visit Philadelphia
The Franklin Institute’s giant walk-through heart has been closed as the science museum developed a new, permanent exhibition around it. “Body Odyssey” opens last month with state-of-the-art museum technology showcasing the human body, from gut microbiomes to bionic prosthetics.
Gabbi Townsend, Fashion District, Ryan Williams, Fashion District and Farah Farag, Visit Philadelphia

In November The Light The World Giving Machine was installed at the Fashion District. The “giving machines” are popular vending machines that work in reverse, giving you the chance to donate a variety of much-needed items to local and global charities. Donation items range in price from $5 to $500. This year, the donations go to six charities, including Philabundance, Interfaith Philabundance/Zones of Peace, Mount Airy Church of God in Christ, Ministry of Caring, Days for Girls and Mentors International.

The Giving Machines will remain in the Fashion District through Dec. 4 during regular mall hours, which run Monday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, from noon to 6 p.m.

John New, Kate Winters both of CYTO/PHL, Gabrielle Wallace, Try Hungry, and Betsy Barber, Temple University
Taylor Lumpkin, En Route, Summer Freeman and Tracy Bulholz all of En Route
Michael Norris, Carpenters’ Hall, Allegra Burnette, Museum of American Revolution and Jonathan Burton. Director of Development, Independence Historic Trust The Legacy Award Gala is coming up on December 12, honoring
Kathryn Ott Lovell, Philadelphia Visitor Center, Andrew Lovell, Temple University and Sudha Suryadevara, Philadelphia Visitor Center

Philadelphia Visitor Center and Visit Philadelphia are celebrating Rocky Week in Philadelphia. RockyFest 2024 celebrates the iconic Rocky film franchise — and Philly’s underdog spirit — with an action-packed week of festivities.

Sharing holiday recipes Michelle Leff, 12th Street Catering, Anthony Lehman, Feast Your Eyes Catering, Nancy Rawson, Monell Chemical Senses Center and Maggie Bond, Live Nation, Brooklyn Bowl
Roland Bui, Laura Smyth and Daniel Davies all of Visit Philadelphia
Great job Lindsay Erickson and Diane DiCicco and the Carmichael Lynch team.

The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) creates positive economic impact across the Philadelphia region, driving job growth and promoting the health and vibrancy of our hospitality industry by marketing the destination, the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and attracting overnight visitors.

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Around Town With HughE

Scene: Phila Ballet Celebrates

On Friday, October 25, 2024, the Philadelphia Ballet marked a significant milestone with its 60th Anniversary Gala performance and dinner.

Co Chairs of the Gala Sarah Marshall and Lloyd Freeman. A spectacular event, sold out and a success in raising critical funds for the company.

The one-night event celebrated the company’s history, achievements, and future. Chaired by Philadelphia Ballet Trustees Sarah Marshall and Lloyd Freeman, the gala also served as a fundraising opportunity to support the company’s performances and community initiatives.

The evening started with a pre-performance reception at the Academy of Music.

John and Jane Fischer, Bernadette and Russell Casey
Caroline Slota and John Sherman
Brandon Woods and Ashley Mariana
Congratulations to Phila Ballet Principal Dancers: Sterling Baca and Scarlett Suemez who were married a few days later!! Here with always stylish Rita Rome.
Nydia Han and Dennis Reilly
Brandon Woods and Ashley Mariana
Jessica Mathelier and Danielle Bourgeon, whose favorite quote is: “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” ~Colin Powell

Guests enjoyed a spectacular program Angel Corella, The Ruth and A. Morris Williams, Jr. Artistic Director, has created of ballet excerpts that showcases the artists of Philadelphia Ballet, Philadelphia Ballet II, School of Philadelphia Ballet, and Philadelphia Ballet Orchestra led by Beatrice Jona Affron, The Louise and Alan Reed Music Director.

After the performance the promenade took place as guests made their way from the Academy of Music to The Union League for dinner.
Beautiful art work The Heart of The Philadelphia Ballet by Perry Milou was on auction
Philadelphia Ballet Dance5rs Charlotte Erickson, Ashlee Lewis and Gabriel Lukasit
Diane Dalto Woosnam and Richard Woosnam
Beverly Deavens and Gregory E. Deavens President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross
Philadelphia Ballet artistic director Angel Corella and Shelly Power, Executive Director

Tickets are on sale for George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker starting at $25 and are available for the three-week run of Nutcracker.

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Around Town With HughE

ChitChat: Jennifer Garner, Gwen Walz Eats a Cheesesteak

Hello Chit Chatters. I know I didn’t keep my promise of publishing at least 3 times a week. It’s a busy season, and to tell you the truth after I shoot an event in the evening I get tired. So sometimes I go out afterwards, I’ve been going to the gym, or sometimes I just chill. I do have plenty to publish so stay tuned. Also I do publish in Philly Mag, Philly Style, Main Line Today and CBSPhilly. Let’s chat…

Actress Jennifer Garner was in town yesterday to meet with the folks from Kamala for Pennsylvania (this is a photo from their IG page.) I got two sightings of her at the Four Seasons yesterday. She had a bite to eat at JG Sky High, was friendly with everyone who said hi, and looked radiant they tell me.

Vice Presidential candidate Tim Walz’s wife Gwen Walz was in town yesterday as well. In the evening she spoke at the Philly Gay News’ (PGN) 48 LGBTQ+ Leaders event, then like a good visitor headed to a favorite spot to enjoy a cheese steak – Jim’s on South Street. She ordered a whiz with and

Posed for photos for those who asked. Look for more celebrity sightings as we head into the final weeks.

Also in town last night was Hillary Rodham Clinton who spoke at the Academy of Music. I heard she was enjoyable and entertaining.

Then I remembered when she was running in 2008 for president, her daughter Chelsea did a gayborhood crawl with PGN’s Mark Segal, Gov Ed Rendell and actor Rob Reiner. I got this shot for Michael Klein’s, then gossip column, Inklings.

Miguel Martinez-Valle Instagram

Ahhh this is so sweet, love these guys. Congratulations to NBC10’s Miguel Martinez-Valle and Comcast’s Ray Smeriglio who got engaged in Cape May over the weekend. They were also honored last night as Philly Gay News’ 48 LGBTQ+ Leaders!!

I don’t know how I missed the Northern Lights last night. I was shooting an event near Penn Valley, and then drove to Old City for another event. The traffic on the Schuylkill was abysmal but I didn’t see a thing. Eventually went to Jersey after the 2nd event a saw a faint pink sky.

They say tonight should be just as good, so I’ll give it another try. Glad I saw them in Charlotte, NC last May. I no longer have to travel to a cold climate for the bucket list chance.

Have a great weekend. Catch me on IG for the latest,

Socially yours, HughE

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Around Town With HughE

About Last Night: PMA Shopping Event at Boyds

Boyds, Philadelphia’s top clothing store established in 1938, is recognized as a family-owned business that has dressed the well-heeled in the area for nearly 90 years, is also well known for it’s philanthropic endeavors.

Andrew Gushner, Boyds Philadelphia and Kent Gushner, President at Boyds Philadelphia, third and fourth generation family members.

Last night Boyds in Center City hosted a charity shopping event to support the upcoming Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show, which is happening at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on November 14th.

Aly Green, Niki Ikahihifo-Bender Mailata, Danielle Wolfrom and Emily Rothrock

The craft show is the largest individual fundraiser for the Philadelphia Museum of Art, contributing over $11 million to the institution. These funds help support educational programs, special exhibitions, conservation projects, the acquisition of craft items for displays, and various other initiatives.

Susan Zelouf, Anita Lockhart, Ellen Simon and Nancy C. O’Meara – Director and Craft Show Manager

Now in its 48th year, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show features unique, one-of-a-kind works by artists from across the United States. The 2024 Show will welcome a total of 195 talented artists representing 13 diverse categories of art and design plus 24 guest artists from Italy.

Mark Singer and Barbara Podell, Esq. 30 years ago, Barbara and I worked at the same law firm, when I was a paralegal. She’s on the PMA Craft Show Committee.
Bentley A. Hollander * i love his LinkedIn profile “Free as a bird at Retired and enjoying time with family” and Clara Hollander, co-founder of CraftNOW
Ramonita Farnesi, when not riding roller coasters, she and Greg Seitter, can be found at Boyds where they are top Stylist & Personal Shoppers

Boyds offers complimentary alterations and basic re-alterations for up to one year on all full-price ready-to-wear as well as complimentary parking on site. Two locations: 1818 Chestnut Street Phila, Pa and 201 W. Lancaster Avenue, Wayne Pa

Kris Christensen, Lois Haggarty and Liddy Lindsey, artist & author. She wrote a fav book I enjoy Opera A- Z, which was very helpful.
Larry and Harriet Weiss

10 percent of each purchase went towards the Philadelphia Museum of Art Craft Show. These scarves are perfect to wear to the 48th Annual Philadelphia Museum of Art Contemporary Craft Show preview party on November 14, or the show which continues that weekend November 15th through November 17. Hope to see you there!!

Socially yours, HughE!!