Carlotta Schiavio aka YaTii Talisman was born in Italy and raised in Ethiopia. Her background is a mixture of different cultures (Italian, Russian, Syrian, Austrian and Ethiopian). She started her creative career in the arts as a jewelry designer and then transitioned to painting in 1998.
Bugibatuki Beings from planet YaTii land with their spaceships in basins of water around planet Earth to bring peace and happiness.
1600 Spruce hosted a cocktail party last week to kick off a month long exhibit of Carlotta Schiavio new works.
Friends Karis Treadwell and Erica Fenton attended.
Sherry Kumar and Domenica Vinci
Mark and Sonya Weigle
Doug
Stephanie and Kirk Brandow, MD
Artist Gigi Lovond and Richard Eib, co owner of 1600 Spruce, which is a very stylish interior and lifestyle shop, they have great hostess gifts, as well as reasonable home store items. Plus they sell my greeting cards there.
Sophie Stasio and Olivia Juszcyk
View more Bugibatuki here but the best place to see them is at 1600 Spruce, Address: 1600 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19103 Phone: (267) 209-3350 Open Saturday and Sunday too. The weather is going to be perfect for shopping in Center City this weekend.
Rev. Bonnie Camarda, The Salvation Army, Evan Benn, Senior Director of Special Projects & Communications @phillyinquirer . Natalie Barndt, JEVS Chief of Staff, Heather Keafer, Chief of Communications and External Affairs at JEVS. and Cynthia Figueroa, President and CEO of JEVS Human Services (JEVS),
JEVS Human Services organized its second annual Grow with JEVS fundraising event at the iconic Water Works Philadelphia on May 15th. The occasion united over 300 sponsors, volunteers, employees, and public figures for an evening filled with joy and motivation. The event successfully generated over $350,000 in funds to bolster JEVS programs. (Thanks Andre Flewellen for shooting this event)
Ari Borthakur, Ana Ramos Hernandez, and Darren A. Spielman
The presenting sponsor for the evening was Citizens. “Citizens has been a proud partner of JEVS for over 20 years,” said Dan Fitzpatrick, Mid-Atlantic President of Citizens. “We share in their vision to help communities thrive by equipping individuals with resources like job training and financial education to achieve economic success.”
Bill Bronson, Jacqueline Flynn, and Tom Hartmann
Casey and Cooper Kio
Patrick Clancy, President and CEO at Philadelphia Works, Inc., Sharmain Matlock-Turner is the CEO of the Urban Affairs Coalition. and Dan Fitzpatrick, Citizens Bank President
Kai, Katie ,Rick and Trey Shinholster
The funds raised from Grow with JEVS will support nearly 40 programs across Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey. Programming areas include workforce development, career & technical education, services to people with disabilities, and in-home care for older adults.
JEVS ambassador, Revena Washington, shared her inspiring testimony about how the nonprofit has transformed her life, as well as thousands of others. “I am here to say that we all have our struggles, but for me, the struggle is over. JEVS has given me the tools, and the resources to better my life. The opportunities at JEVS are abundant.
We come to work each day ready and willing to support our participants in their endeavors, while helping them to realize their vision and dreams,” said Washington who was met by applause and tears from the audience.
Nigel Bowe, JEVS and Antoinette Lee, JEVS
Gavin, Lisa, Brett and Austin Studner,with Phil Moran
Jeff and Laurie Franz, Kelly Mosteller, Jared Harris, Emerson Freer, Donna and Michael Harris
ABOUT JEVS
JEVS Human Services (JEVS) has an 80+ year history in working with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and economic security. JEVS’ vision is to help every person achieve personal independence and fulfillment. Our mission and vision reflect JEVS’ long-standing history of helping people connect to opportunity and cultivate independence.
Amanda Kaewvichien – Pastry Chef – Sofitel Philadelphia, Jon Kline, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Clearview Hotel Capital, LLC, Gregg Caren, CEO PHLCVB, Maud Bailey, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems for Accor; and Pierre Jotterand, General Manager of Sofitel Philadelphia
On Monday, June 3, 2024, the Sofitel Philadelphia in Rittenhouse Square (120 S. 17th Street), commemorated its Diamond Jubilee Anniversary with a grand celebration. Among the attendees were city officials, Sofitel executives, loyal patrons, and esteemed guests, who gathered to mark the unveiling of the newly renovated lobby, Liberté lounge, and restaurant. The occasion also served as a festive tribute to the hotel’s impressive sixty-year history.
DeeJay Shelly (@soundsbyshelly) kept the party going on the red carpet
Lauren and Hunter Voight
More like grey carpet, aligning with the classy Sofitel brand.
Liberté’s fresh menu combines American culinary delights and beloved Philly favorites with classic French dishes. Spearheaded by the hotel’s new executive chef Seth Fannin (not pictured), a seasoned industry expert with extensive experience at esteemed establishments like Paris, Bally’s, and Wynn resorts in Las Vegas, as well as luxury and boutique hotels such as Intercontinental and Millennium Hotels, this innovative approach promises a delectable fusion of flavors.
Laura Swartz – Deputy Editor, Digital – Philadelphia magazine, Gregg Caren , CEP PHLCVB and Joan Deneberg, Manayunk Development Corporation
Jessica Henneman, Dee Durgin, Dayna Leaventon and Caroline Foley
Jimmy and Rich Eib,1600 Spruce Street Recently had a beautiful exhibition of work by artist Yatil Talisman, which I attended and will be showcasing soon.
Nina Castillo, Brenda Hillegas,Jennifer Lynn Robinson
Lauren Smith, Gionana Surhui, Sara Chiaravolloto, and Jamie Gialloreto
Regina Foley and her sister, Angela Bauer, former GM of Sofitel Philadelphia was recognized at the event for her longtime service, which ended when she transferred to sister hotel Swissotel Chicago.
Stepping out: Denethia Durgin, AGM Vernick Fish at the Comcast Center.
Scott Barnes, Director, Events & Hospitality at Comcast, Karen Dougherty Buchholz serves as Executive Vice President of Administration for Comcast Corporation, Janet Binswanger, and Kevin Israel
The OG’s of Cater Waiters, these two have been serving guests for decades: Joyce Sambuca and Dash Merpier
Patty Jackson, WDAS and Ernest Owens, Ernest Owens Media
Paris Fit Philly, Alisia Amor,Kimberley Murray and Melissa Long
Sheila Hess, former City Rep under Mayor Jim Kenney (Who btw married his long time love LettySantarelli, at the W last week, in a very intimate ceremony), Jasmine Armstrong, Visit Philadelphia and Pierre Jotterand, GM Sofitel Philadelphia
Kevin Lessard, PIDC, Laura Burkhardt, executive director of the Avenue of the Arts and Michael Newmuis,2026 Director for Philly
Liberté’s is open Mondays to Thursdays at 12 pm to 11 pm (happy hour 4 pm to 6 pm every day except Saturdays and Sunday), Fridays and Saturdays at 12 pm to 12 am, Sundays at 12 pm to 10 pm. Reservations can now be made on OpenTable.
There is no surer sign of spring in Philly than the annual garden parties that pop up around town; The latest took place last night at AKA University City.
Nearly 100 seasonally inspired fashionable, scene staples, tastemakers enjoyed the view, cocktails and lite bites on level 28, 400 feet above the city sidewalk.
DJ Joshua Lang kept the vibes going at the Soirée. SAVE THE DATE: Catch Cosmic Rhythms w/ BWC Sounds Monday, May 27, 2024 2:00 PM 8:00 PM Bok Bar 800 Mifflin Street Philadelphia
Danielle Ellis, 6ABC and Yukare Nakayama, NBC10
Christina Gentile-Paytas, Caroline Maher,Kristine Greck and Olivia Mazza
Jen Cauldle and Ernest Owens
Two media powerhouses: Dr. Jennifer Caudle who has gone on to give life and health advice to the masses on her media platforms and Ernest Owens, on his, as well has celebrating a year writing for Eater Philly.
Jen Grayson, Trade Show Hostess and Promotional Specialist and Sam Schwartz, foodie, recently did the Rob 10ks Friend interview.
OG scenester David Alexander Jenkins was spotted at the garden party
Iyanna Yasmeen and Erica Nikole
Ramillionaire fresh from the Met Gala party circuit Monday night, with Foxy Grandpa, co-founder and director of Ugly Art Films.
Fidan Alizada,Lifestyle | Branding | Entrepreneurship, My Mans Krispy, realtor and Josh Maugans, Men’s Fashion Influencer & Content Creator
Spotted at the Soiree: Content Kings: Bran FlakezzEmre Kara, as well as TVsters Janelle Burrell, CBSPhilly, Alex Holley and her favorite side kick Miguel Martinez-Valle, looking fresh after his successful IBX10 run on Sunday. Wooder Ices’ Hec Núñez, Farah Vogel and Jay Vereen, who just threw a fabulous 10th anniversary party at Tendenza 2 weeks ago and multiple Cashman Girls, of Cashman & Associates, who curated the list for the party for their client AKA University City. Congratulations to Sofia Suwala who is about to be a mom for the first time in a few weeks.
Philly Mags’ Laura Swartz otherwise known as Pompomflipflop on IG and Ernest Owens, who has nothing to hide, especially with the bag he’s holding. Congrats are in order as he was recently elected to the Executive Board of the Mighty Rho Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as their Associate Editor of the Sphinx! 🔥
Happy Tuesday, spring is in the air, even if it doesn’t feel like it. I see the big tent is in place for the 62nd Edition at the Philadelphia Museum of Art – The Philadelphia Show this week.
Also this is the last weekend for Darnel’s Cafe’s pop up at Bok Bar.Joe Lope and Kyle Cuffie-Scott co-owners of Darnel’s Cafe at Bok Bar Friday night when I stopped by to pick up a delicious BLT sandwich.
Peyton Manning was spotted shopping on Walnut Street Saturday, while in town for his daughter Madison‘s volleyball tournament at the convention center. It was there he ran into Marvin Harrison Sr. a former professional football player who was a wide receiver for 13 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts of the National Football League, playing much of it with quarterback Peyton, was born and lives in Philly. Peyton posted this photo on his IG Sunday.
Have you seen it? Jason Kelce’s new Tesla Truck. Since his retirement he’s been spotted all over town, like our own “Where’s Waldo?” (The Indie Shelf Philly) Monday he was spotted in South Philly getting his haircut.
Jason Kelce pointing out one of his favorite bumper stickers to his hairdresser Libby Hitt, who also shears a few other Eagles heads.
Jim Dever, Bank of America and Dr. Lynn Dever were co-chairs of the event, which attended by a record number of guests, and raised over a million dollars.
Last night, the Franklin Institute celebrated its 200th year, The Franklin Institute Awards pays tribute to our namesake and America’s first citizen scientist, Benjamin Franklin, by honoring the greatest minds in science, engineering, and industry, through their boundless creativity and passion for discovery.
2024 Franklin Institute Awards Laureates David A. Weitz, Ph.D., Harvard University Lisa Su, Ph.D., AMD Gabriela S. Schlau-Cohen, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology Paula T. Hammond, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology Janet F. Werker, Ph.D., O.C., FRSC, The University of British Columbia Paul D. N. Hebert, Ph.D., FRSC, O.C., University of Guelph Robert M. Metcalfe, Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin Joanne Chory, Ph.D., The Salk Institute for Biological Studies Mary C. Boyce, Ph.D., Columbia University
Morgan and Nick Morris of Manhattan
Spring Gala Season is in full bloom, with events happening nearly every night, all for a good cause.
Beverly Deavens and Gregory E. Deavens President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross
Since its inception, The Franklin Institute Awards Program has honored the most influential scientists, engineers, and inventors who have significantly advanced science and technology. The roster of more than 2,000 laureates includes luminaries such as Nikola Tesla, Marie and Pierre Curie, Orville Wright, Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, Jane Goodall, Stephen Hawking, and more recently, vaccine pioneers Kizzmekia Corbett, Drew Weissman, and Katalin Karikó. Notably, 125 of these laureates have also received the Nobel Prize.
Jackie and Eric Kraeutler
Hugh Stravick, Senior Vice President, Client & Community Relations · PNC and Kristin Stravick
Hugh and I have a special bond, cause I think we’re the only two in Philly with the same name, who see each other regularly; and on occasion we see Hugh Lavery. SVP of Govt Affairs, Jefferson Health.
Dara Oliver and Doug Oliver, PECO
Dr. Nina Radcliff, Board Certified Anesthesiologist Orange is the new black it’s better than that actually in sequins ! and Anthony Murray, my fellow bird watching friend.
Andrea Freundlich, Jerry Wind and Barbara Eberlein
Kimberly Doolittle, Esq and Lindsay Craig exploring the more than life size heart inside the museum.
Dr. Joan O’Shea, Neurosurgeon and Amany Mansour Awad, Founder, Board Member at Chemistry Rx |Founder and CEO at Bloop
Larry Dubinski is the President & CEO of The Franklin Institute greets guests as they arrive at the Franklin Institute
“The 200-year legacy of The Franklin Institute Awards stands as a shining example of our dedication to honoring those who have made significant strides in advancing scientific knowledge,” said Larry Dubinski, President and CEO of The Franklin Institute. “In this milestone year, the Awards Program will celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our 2024 laureates and serve as a reminder of The Franklin Institute’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to shaping the future of science and technology.
Bonnie Grant, PCMA Greater Philadelphia Chapter, Laura Swartz, Chief Executive Officer and President · World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and Donna Farrell, senior vice president of Corporate Communications for Independence Blue Cross
Dr. Thanuja Hamilton and Nicholas Perugino (r) enjoying the pre awards reception.
Vishal Patel and Kernika Gupta – Director – Independence Blue Cross
Additional photos from the event can be seen on CBSPhilly, as well as Main Line Today in the June issue, and Philly Style Magazine in the July Issue.
UArts President Kerry Walk, PhD, introduces James Brandon Lewis at the Inaugural Music on the Square
UArts kicked off their new music series UArts Music on The Square earlier this month at the Philadelphia Art Alliance at the University of the Arts on Rittenhouse Square with a concert by James Brandon Lewis & Neil Podgurski Molecular Systematic Music Duets
After the concert there was a reception with cocktails and charcuterie David Kelly, Vicky Hall. Tom Cardosi and Andrew Kleeman, Parents & Family Council UArts
Andrew Pack, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Harriet and Larry Weiss, UArts supporters
Music on the Square has two more evening performances scheduled for you to enjoy.
Miranda Powell, Director of Campus Events and Scheduling UArts and Jean Murphy, Manager for Annual Fund & Leadership Giving, Office of Advancement
Join University of the Arts at the historic Philadelphia Art Alliance for a spring concert series featuring The No Name Pops. Each evening performance showcases a unique program presented by this new, versatile ensemble.
Carol Graney, VP for Academic Affairs, UArts and Daniel Tucker, Program Director, Museum Studies UArts
Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts 251 S. 18th Street
Join us for an evening of musical brilliance as the No Name Pops Jazz Quintet, which includes professors and a professor emeritus from the University of the Arts, pay homage to the timeless tunes of George Gershwin and Cole Porter. From the soul stirring melodies of “Our Love Is Here To Stay” to the toe-tapping rhythms of “Anything Goes,” immerse yourself in a journey through the golden era of American music, alongside your No Name Pops! Tickets $50, $35
David and Vicky Kelly with Andrew Kleeman
Fashionistas Tom and Jamie Cardosi
Audrey Ellis and Jonathan Fineberg, Founding Director, PhD in Creativity UArts
Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts 251 S. 18th Street
Experience a tribute to Anthony Newley, curated by featured vocalist Eddie Bruce, with The No Name Pops Jazz Quintet, which includes professors from University of the Arts. With fervor and authenticity, Bruce channels Newley’s wit and ingenuity and leaves audiences captivated. Featuring iconic renditions of “Pure Imagination” and “Feeling Good,” this concert honors the enduring legacy of one of show business’ most remarkable and underrated songwriters. See you at Music on the Square
Opera Philadelphia President David B. Devan was honored during a special event at the 23rd Street Armory March 9, 2024, the longtime leader of Opera Philadelphia will step down in June 2024, at the end of the season.
David B. Devan and husband Rev David A. Dubbeldam
Eddie and Rachel Eitches
David Levy and Frank Luzi, Founder & President at Luzi Media, who’s client is Opera Philadelphia, where he was the VP of Marketing for nearly 12 years
Susan Long, Andy Szabo, Ivy and Gary Kaplan (the 2 NY Giants fans walked in the 2023 5k Eagles Autism Challenge. last year to celebrate their beautiful grandchildren, Ari, and Davina. This years walk is coming up May 18.)
Leslie Miller and Richard Worley, philanthropists who recently made an incredible generous gift to the Kimmel Center at Ensemble Arts Philly, which will be going toward renaming the home of the Philadelphia Orchestra, currently, Verizon Hall. The officially re-dedication of Verizon Hall to Marian Anderson Hall will take place on June 8, in the afternoon. That evening is the 2nd annual Great Stages Gala and concert, and the first performance in the newly renamed hall.
Jamie Ray-Leonetti
Anita and James Dupree
Susan Long, Andy Szabo, Ivy and Gary Kaplan
Thanks to team photographer Andre Flewellen for photographing this event for PhillyChitChat
Stephen Klasko and Sarah Marshall
Board chair Steven Klasko told WHYY ‘s Peter Crimmins, “He [Devan] literally created a company in step with Philadelphia, created a very urban, new wave opera company”, “We have become one of the leaders in adding new American operas to the repertoire.”
The very talented John Jarboe of The Bearded Ladies, emceed and entertained for his long time friend, and his friends.
The company created 18 new operas during Devan’s tenure, which have subsequently been produced over 330 times by other companies in 10 countries. Opera Philadelphia also created a series of highly produced operatic films as part of its pandemic-inspired digital service. The soundtrack for one of them, “Soldier Songs,” was nominated for a Grammy Award.
John Jarboe with an epic piano hat
Joshua Blue
Devan was serenaded by vocalists who’ve performed with Opera Philadelphia including Will Liverman (’10 Days in a Madhouse’), John Holiday (‘We Shall Not Be Moved’), Daniela Mack (‘Carmen’), Ashley Marie Robillard and Joshua Blue (‘La bohème’)
Ashley Robillard
Stephen Klasko, Former president of Thomas Jefferson University flew into town from his Florida home, with long time friend Sarah Marshall, philanthropist and Board Member · USAFA Foundation, HelpUsAdopt.org, Pennsylvania Ballet, Opera Philadelphia
Jan Shaeffer and Jane Pepper, Chairman at Longwood Gardens Inc., formerly the president of Philadelphia Horticultural Society
Devan’s last full production with Opera Philadelphia, will be Puccini’s ‘Madame Butterfly’ for his grand finale (April 26 to May 5).
Opening Night Reception: The Good Person of Setzuan at the Wilma Theater; On stage through April 21.
On April 5, Wilma Theater celebrated the opening of The Good Person of Setzuan with a reception for subscribers, supporters and friends. Something they do for every opening, which is so nice. The guests mingle with each other as well as with creative leaders of the Wilma and the play they are about to see.
Wilma Theater Managing Director Leigh Goldenberg, Justin Jain, Director and Yury Urnov, co-artisitc director The Good Person of Setzuan
Eva and Michael Leeds, Carl Sheingold and Janice Madden
The play was written by the German dramatist Bertolt Brecht, in collaboration with Margarete Steffin and Ruth Berlau. In Brecht’s play, Shen Te, a kind-hearted prostitute, struggles to maintain her goodness in a harsh world where survival often requires compromise and self-interest. When she inherits a sum of money, she uses it to open a tobacco shop and help those in need. However, her altruism is quickly taken advantage of, forcing her to create a ruthless alter ego, Shui Ta, to protect herself and her business interests.
Javier Mojica is the House Manager of The Wilma Theater
Jessica Johnson and Jaylene Clark Owens
Kevaughn Harvey and Gayle Smith
Jen Bohnenberger and Cat Bohnenberger
Debbie Fluck and Zoe Goldberg Smothern
Joan and Bill Goldstein
Donnell Powell and John Myers
Bash, Kel Fleming and Dezi
Theater goers in the Good Karma Cafe at the Wilma Theater waiting for the show to start. The Good Person of Setzuan at the Wilma Theater; On stage through April 21. INFO here.
This is not an April Fools Day Joke. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce flew into Philly airport ie Atlantic Aviation, on Easter morning at about 9AM. They presumably headed to Jason and Kylie’s house in Haverford to spend the day with family. The “End Game” couple then headed to the Four Seasons Hotel to spend the night (When touring Taylor always stays at the Ritz, but Travis, who was last in town for his brothers retirement announcement, stayed at the Four Season’s. When she toured last summer she did have JG George stay open late for dinner after the Saturday night concert), They flew out this morning around 10am.
The final destination today is Hollywood for the IHeart Radio Awards show tonight; their plane touches down around 12:30pm pacific time. Taylor is leading in the nominations. Tonight might be their official Red Carpet debut together. They did appear on the gold carpet at the Gucci after party on Oscar Night, but that was for a private event.
Today Show: This morning did you catch Kylie Kelce on The Today Show chatting about Eagles Autism Foundation this morning . Such a good interview, lots of Jason chat as well, she is such a supporter of his -All cards are on the table, he can do whatever he sets his mind to. He is so talented she told Hoda & Savanah. Kylie did not mention Taylor or Travis’ Easter dinner appearance. All that was mentioned of loved up couple was it was fun to see them together.
Then everyone headed out to the plaza where more about the work Kylie and the Eagles do on behalf of the Eagles Autism Foundation.
April Is Autism Awareness Month and the Philadelphia Eagles are inviting fans, arts and culture enthusiasts, autism supporters, and the community to experience a new gallery adorned exclusively with Eagles-themed masterpieces. The Eagles’ art gala, “Green Is the Heart Inspired,” will run from Thursday, April 11, to Sunday, April 14, at the award-winning Arch Enemy Arts gallery in Philly’s historic Old City District.
Speaking of former Eagles Players.
The Ertz Family Foundation (Julie and Zach Ertz) will host a benefit concert for House of Hope featuring Matt Quinn of indie rock band Mt. Joy, and surprise guests, at Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia on Friday, April 12.
Tickets went on sale today exclusively at brooklynbowl.com/philadelphia. A preshow package including a meet and greet, cocktails, light bites, bowling and photo opportunities, are also available.
House of Hope, a project supported by The Ertz Family Foundation, provides education, technology, and nutrition products and services to combat the ongoing food insecurity, gun violence, and drug use Philadelphia is experiencing.
After a pause that left many yearning for its delightful aromas and communal vibrancy, the much-loved Red Gravy Cook-Offis making a triumphant return, stirring excitement among food enthusiasts and community members alike. Organized by the East Passyunk Crossing Civic Association, this cherished event promises to rekindle the spirit of community and culinary excellence that has been its hallmark.
I hope you had a wonderful Easter, for those who celebrate, as well as a time to reconnect with friends and family. This year was the first time in 14 years I didn’t attend the Easter Parade on South Street. I love it, and I will return, but I was excited to try something different this year and that was enjoying a lovely brunch with friends hosted by TV personality Brian Balthazar (r) and Dennis St. Germain (standing), real estate agent to the stars, but he’d never tell you that. (They moved to our area during the pandemic, here’s their home feature on The Today Show.) Rounding out this photo are my friends Rich and Jimmy Eib, owner of 1600 Spruce Interior Design & Home
The Cherry Trees seem to bloom earlier and earlier each year. I hope you had a chance to see them this weekend. They were so beautiful and bountiful. I’m heading into the busy Spring Social Season, but I am going to work hard at not getting overwhelmed and will post here at least 3 times a week.
