Hello Chit Chatters, I hope you had a wonderful week. Winter got real these past few weeks. It was cold, it snowed, but life continues with caution and optimism . One of futures hope is the beautiful, life changing Jefferson Specialty Care Pavilion which held it’s Topping Off Ceremony earlier this week.
Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health topped off a $762 million, 19-floor Specialty Care Pavilion at 11th and Chestnut streets that will eventually become the centerpiece of its Philadelphia campus. One of the
H. Richard Haverstick, Jr., Interim President and CEO of Thomas Jefferson University
The new facility, spanning approximately 462,000 square feet, will feature:
more than 300 exam rooms
58 infusion chairs
10 operating rooms
six endoscopy rooms
imaging and lab services
a pharmacy
three levels of underground parking for added patient convenience
Designed by renowned architectural firms Ennead Architects and Stantec, the Specialty Care Pavilion will be especially welcoming to aging neurodiverse populations, such as patients with autism and dementia. The building is anticipated to house many of Jefferson’s nationally ranked services in one location, creating unparalleled convenience for patients. The future looks bright. Read more about the Specialty Care Pavilion at Metro Philly, and Phila Biz Journal.
Justin Beiber was spotted in Lancaster County Wednesday according Lancaster Online to (PS I had heard the Beibs was rehearsing at Rock Lititz last week, but was sitting on the story until I wrote about my own visit to Lancaster which I will do on Monday.) He’s at the famedsound stages of Rock Lititz staging his upcoming concert tour, Bieber’s world tour, called “The Justice World Tour 2022” which starts later this month. If you recall right before the pandemic started, he was spotted in Philly at the Rocky Steps, and the Four Seasons, which I wrote about. After his tour was scrapped I mentioned he was headed to Rock Lititz to rehearse his tour then as well. Since then I have visited Lititz to check out the place. It’s very cool, a very large campus of warehouses in which several musicians have come to rehearse their shows before heading out on tour including Katy Perry, Mumford & Sons, Green Day and Ariana Grande to name a few. Next up for Lititz is the Fire and Ice Festival in a few weeks. I wonder if Beiber will stop by. Here’s the INFO
Frank Potts, Elmer C. Hudson and Jameel H. Worthy help with the robing ceremony of Judge Lori Dumas
Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court welcomed its newest judge as Lori Dumas was sworn in Wednesday during a ceremonial session led by state Supreme Court Justice Kevin M. Dougherty at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.
The setting at the Constitution Center was perfect, in the shadow of Independence Hall. The tributes paid to Judge Dumas were moving, and her comments about others who went before her and planted the seeds was monumental (like the first black women elected, Doris A Smith -RibnerRetired of the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania for the United States Supreme Court.) Thank you to those who went before us. More photos and stories at CBSPhilly, and Phila Tribune.
Pandemic or not, this summer flew by. I had a great time. I’m trying to learn to slow down, I took all of August to work on that project. I saw a lot of friends. I cooked at home. I went bird watching. Then Mike and I went to the Smoky Mountains, and stopped by Charlotte to visit family. I enjoyed visiting my mom in Charlotte the last few days. She really enjoys life, at a very nice pace. I love how she will sit on her porch and read a book everyday for several hours. Then have dinner with friends, or family, or alone. Watch TV for a few hours, and then go to bed at a reasonable hour, wake up and walk for a few miles before starting her day. I couldn’t wait to get back to Philly to get out, see my friends and return to the only pace I know, frenetic.
I attempted to not post on Social Media as much, but then Ida happened. I feel an obligation to keep my readers informed. Since I wasn’t in the area I shared so many posts from the news, and drone photographers. It’s amazing how many people do drone videos, and so talented. Thanks to the readers who sent me photos as well. So sad for all the devastation. Readers have asked me how they can help with IDA’s impact. The Schuylkill Banks is looking for volunteers to help with clean up. Plus more info HERE.
Sunday afternoon Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber dined at JG Sky High at the Four Seasons. Photo of Bieber at Four Seasons credit; Brooke Thompson Justin in the green hat, ate 2 breakfast burritos and drank coffee. On his way out fan Brooke Thompson said I love your new CD, both Justin and Hailey thanked her. I love the dining area at Four Seasons, I always knew it’d be a great paparazzo spot. I’ve gotten the Pistons there, and in the 2020 someone sent me a Bieber shot while he was dining there.
A few fan photos of Justin Bieber on MIA Festival stage Sunday Night. I was excited to make it back from Charlotte in time to catch the last hour of his show from my friend Phyllis Halpern’s balcony.
Adam Sandler stopped by Pietro’s Radnor (we have two in Center City – South Street and Walnut St) for dinner Friday night, and posed with the staff. He was also spotted at Steak 48 on Saturday night, not too far from where the Bieber’s ate, but no one could tell me if they interacted. Thanks to Pietro’s for sending me this photo, which also appeared on Fox 29.
Thanks to my readers, for sending me tips and photos this week including this nugget where a few celebrity performers entertained at Rob & Rayna’s wedding. Thanks to wedding planning All About Events Philly for sending me this fun story, which I was also able to get on Fox 29 this morning. Thanks so much to you all for stopping by today.
I kinda had dinner with @iamwandasykes Wanda Sykes and Alex Sykes @iamalexsykes@spicefinchphilly on Friday night. At first I wasn’t going to sneak a photo as Alex Sykes and I follow each other on Instagram and it’s kinda like breaking the “4th wall knowing each other”, but like that snake parable story, I stayed true to my “paparazzo” self and grabbed a sneak shot. After I finished dinner, I did say a quick hi to them both before I left, and I didn’t ask for a photo. Just a quick hey, it’s me, and it’s you and I love your Instagram posts. I totally told them about my trip to Florida, as they just got back as well. They asked how mom was doing. Hey mom!! TONIGHT: Wanda is participating in ABC’s “Roll Up Your Sleeves” on Sunday, April 18 at 7PM. Thanks Wanda!! You all must follow their Instagram, they are so loving, and so hysterical. During dinner they ate across from each other, but when they had dessert they sat next to each other, which is when I got this shot from where I was sitting at the bar.
Hey bud!! Spring has sprung, the blooming trees have blanketed the landscape and people are emerging from their hibernation, safely with their masks on. So much happening around town as well and I’m excited to share it with you. Then get out and enjoy the beautiful day and each other.
The big story this week is the Banana Republic at 1401 Walnut Street is closing on June 9th, and the big going out of business sale. After I posted this on Social Media a few readers found out that the landlord decided not to renew the long time clothing store, could it have something to do with their parent company GAP not paying rent in 2020 at many of their Simon Mall locations around the country, which they settled with undisclosed details a few months later. But this location is not a mall, and it is not connected to Simon.
Thanks so much to Jay Farrell who left a message on my FB page with the updated info about the property. The Zoning Permit. Looks like a bank could take over half the space, and a clothing store takes the otherside.
The Good News: The Banana Republic Factory Store (discount) remains open 1911 Chestnut St. and since the retailer was pushed out of the space, I wouldn’t be surprised if Banana Republic doesn’t resurface somewhere on Walnut St.
Another Story I posted earlier this week on my Instagram Yeah finally announced!!! @federaldonuts is opening on the Parkway. As you know I got a tour in February of the new Pearl Properties apartment building The Terrace on 18th Street, and was filled in on this tidbit as well as more to come. (The fast-casual doughnut shop will occupy 1,500+ square feet on the ground floor of The Terrace. The Terrace location will have the most seating of any Federal Donuts location, including an expansive raised outdoor patio) Pearl Properties and Federal Donuts are excited to announce that a brand-new location for Federal Donuts is coming to The Terrace on 18th at 1776 Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Philadelphia’s iconic donut and fried chicken specialists will open their tenth location at the newest residence on Parkway.
Bummer Fairmounters Fine Wines is closing on Fairmount Avenue, and unfortunately you have to head about a 1/2 mile south to get your spirits at the new Fine Wines store at The Granary (1901 Callowhill St,) near the Target store. Neighbors on Next Door are hoping the post office next door will expand, or maybe they’ll take down the ugly building and build a more attractive one with retail. One could only hope.
Like spotting an unicorn, I saw a bride reveal her dress to her groom on Saturday at Fairmount Park. It was magical, people in the park were as excited as I was. PS Some of you folk who subscribe to PhillyChitChat and receive this post in your email will have to click on the Instagram link to see the video. The rest of you should be able to just hit play (BTW you later folks, could you subscribe to the blog in the upper left hand corner. Turns out the Feed burner subscription I used over a decade ago is about to be non existent. I could transfer the 15ks of your emails to the new subscription by hand, or you could just re subscribe which would be so much easier. Remember to verify your email after plugging it in to the subscription box. Thanks!!
The photographer (on left) Allie Wynands, tells me that yesterday was just a small service for an intimate group of guests, which took place at the Gazebo. Photos were taken, and a legal marriage took place. BUT the big wedding, with many more guests and celebration will be taking place next year in April, after the Covid19 pandemic is over, down the shore. Check out Allie’s Instagram page tomorrow for more photos from today’s ceremony.
Charity Speaking: The Andalusia Foundation’s Virtual Wine Auction fundraising event, which is set to begin tonight at 6 p.m. and closes on Saturday, April 24 at 10 p.m. This silent auction features some incredibly rare and extraordinary wine lots, wine-related items and a special dinner or lunch at Andalusia’s Cottage. Anyone interested in participating can do so from any location thanks to the auction’s virtual format this year!
To preview the auction lots and participate in the online, visit:
All proceeds benefit The Andalusia Foundation’s mission to preserve, maintain and interpret this National Historic Landmark for the public to enjoy today and for generations to come. They have beautiful gardens, and great bird watching.
During a virtual membership meeting and ceremony, The Saturday Club, one of the oldest women’s non-profit organizations in both Pennsylvania and nationwide, awarded grant funding to three local organizations with aligned missions. Annual philanthropy grants were presented to Cradle of Hope, Families Forward Philadelphia and Mission Kids Child Advocacy Center. The funds, which were raised by the club through virtual and in-person community fundraisers throughout 2020 and 2021, will be used to establish and enhance programs while providing key assistance to each organization.
Save The Date: The Philadelphia Film Society Presents
FEATURING A POST-SCREENING Q&A WITH MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY, PARKER POSEY & RICHARD LINKLATER Stars Matthew McConaughey and Parker Posey will join Linklater and host Jack Black – recorded via Zoom – for a look back at a film that captured the look and the sounds of an entire generation.
DAZED AND CONFUSED + VIRTUAL CAST REUNION RICHARD LINKLATER | USA | 1993 | 103 MIN | R April 20 | 8:15 PM | PFS Drive-In at the Navy Yard TICKETS
VIP Ticket with 6:30 PM VIP Reception | $200 (PFS Members $175) General Admission with 7:00 PM Entry | $60 (PFS Members $50) VIP Virtual Red-Carpet Party, Oscars Trivia Contest, & Gourmet Oscars Watch Box, 7:00 PM | $150 Donation GA Virtual Red-Carpet Party & Oscars Trivia Contest, 7:00 PM | $50 Donation All proceeds from this annual fundraiser support the Philadelphia Film Society’s mission of creating opportunities for diverse communities to experience film through initiatives that inspire, educate, challenge and entertain.
HBO Photos
Speaking of films, the Kate Winslet HBO series filmed in our area last year debuts tonight Mare of Easttown. I was able to stay on top of the filming, but didn’t make it out to the set but about 2 times because of time constraints, as well as locations inside homes, and the studio. Where were the Mare of Easttown filming locations >> mostly in parts of Chester and Delaware counties, in towns including Coatesville, Marcus Hook and Downingtown. But they also filmed at Girard College in Fairmount, as well as Wissahickon Valley Park.
The 800 block of North 2100 Street is blooming right now. ChitChat with you tomorrow. I love doing these around town with Hughe posts. I know I always say I plan to do more, but I definitely will. I’m scouring your SM, reading press releases and will be filling you in here. Fill free to send me info as well and I will try and mention it here. Thanks for your support, and thanks for saying hi when we’re out and about.
Remember if you receive an email where you have to click on a link to get to the blog, re subscribe at the top left with your email as the other service ends in July. Thanks HughE
The Shore House Hotels, the popular new digitally-driven boutique hotel company based at the Jersey Shore, announced earlier this month that it has closed a private, multi-million dollar fundraising and completed the acquisition of the Sandpiper Motel located at 1600 Ocean Avenue, North Wildwood. The property at 1600 Ocean Avenue, formerly the Sandpiper Motel, will undergo a complete design and branding overhaul prior to its opening this summer as The Shore House Hotel and Swim Club – North Wildwood.
While the team will preserve the structure and retro spirit of the 1960’s mid-century motel, the 21 pet-friendly units will feature a fresh mid-century meets coastal chic aesthetic designed by founder and hotelier Kevin Reardon. The 20-foot heated, salt-water pool will be a focus of the experience and boast private cabanas, fire-pits and designer floral installations. Looking to new growth opportunities around curated events and experience-making as the world emerges from the pandemic, The Shore House has also tapped Peter Zingoni as a new strategic partner. Mr. Zingoni is a veteran of the convention, tourism, and hospitality industries, and is a former professional hockey player with the Philadelphia Flyers organization. The Shore House made a splash onto the lodging scene a few years ago with its forward-thinking model that leverages cloud-based technology to operate its properties.
Sly Stallone shared the story of courageous, determined LA resident, Chase Friedman who slipped and fell on his friend’s bathroom floor on New Year’s Day in Philadelphia. The freak accident severely injured his spine and left him unable to move his arms and legs. Doctors said he would never walk again, and in less than three months, with his determination and lots of work, and a miracle or two no doubt, he climb the Rocky Stairs. Something he told his doctors he would do before heading back home to LA.
Shot from the new 18th on Terrace apartment building in February 2021
In 2016 I first wrote the story about the the plan for building housing units as it was presented to my condo building which is also on the Parkway (here).
In 2019, the Archdiocese selected EM Race Vine Venture, LLC as the master developer for the redevelopment of the Cathedral Block. In September 2019, the parties entered into a Master Development Agreement. On November 23, 2020, the Archdiocese entered into a 99-year ground lease agreement with the Master Developer. (Rendering by the firm Solomon Cordwell Buenz)
(Rendering by the firm Solomon Cordwell Buenz)
CATHEDRAL PLACE – PHASE 1
The roughly four-acre block located in center city between 17th and 18th streets and between Race and Vine streets overlooks the city’s main locus of arts and culture, Logan Circle and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, which hosted visits by St. John Paul II in 1979 and Pope Francis in 2015.
The building will be twenty-three stories containing 273 apartment units, 2,500 square feet of ground-floor retail, and include 18 underground parking spaces.
CATHEDRAL PLACE – PHASE 1 at 17th and Race Streets (Rendering by the firm Solomon Cordwell Buenz)
Financial terms of the agreement on the Cathedral Block Project with master developer EM Race Vine Venture were not disclosed in an announcement Nov. 23. (Catholic Philly) EM Race Vine Venture was incorporated in Delaware in August 2019 and selected as the lead partner for the project on Sept. 27 of that year. Chicago-based firm Solomon Cordwell Buenz has been selected as the lead architect for phase one of the project.
Younger self is crying with joy today after the Supreme Court finally protected my civil rights with 6-3 decision that federal law bars workplace discrimination against gays, lesbian and transgender. GORSUCH writes for Dem appointees. ROBERTS agrees. ALITO/THOMAS/KAVANAUGH dissent ie still believe in discrimination. ** I was once fired for being gay by a large well known corporation. The company had meetings on ways to fire me. A closeted lesbian supervisor warned me. I was written up for every little thing, and then fired after about 3 months. In 1988 there was no law protecting me and no lawyer who would take the case. #SupremeCourt#LGBTQ YEAH!! (Source)
Thursday I wrote about a few eateries opened for dining al fresco. Friday I walked around and found a few more as well as these business. I also saw that the Gap was opened on Walnut Street. Cole Hahn, Rag & Bone and The Loft were stocked and ready to open. Check out additional photos on CBSPhilly for restaurants open for dining outside.
I personally went to Pinefish, Dimsum House on Chestnut Street and Germantown Beer Garden, which had a cool menu idea.
Breaking News: I got an email from The Phila Flea Markets they have been given notice by The Philadelphia Department Of Health that all outdoor events have been canceled thru the month of August in Philadelphia. This includes the remainder of the Antique & Vintage Markets downtown as well as the Roosevelt Flea Market in NE Philadelphia.
We’ve yet to hear back from officials in Bucks County on when we can re-open The Bristol Indoor Flea Market.
Philly cancels events for the summer of 2020 for safety concerns
A few more events which won’t be happening this summer. Philly Pops on July 4th, Diner en Blanc in August, East Passyunk Car show in July and Old City Eats Block Party in June, 2nd Street Festival, Italian Festival in South Philly, the water downed Bastille Day in Fairmount, Made In America has suspended ticket sales, has well as so many events we love to attend. But it’s a small sacrifice to save lives, which are priceless. Stay Safe, 6 feet or more and wear a mask with others.
Teal Butterfly is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to raise awareness about the early signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer by educating the public through community events and social media campaigns
