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Around Town With HughE

Nbeauty Inc Hair, Skin & Body Spa Ardmore

Naeemah Johnson (owner of Nbeauty Inc)

Naeemah Johnson a licensed cosmetologist known for setting trends and styling tresses since the tender age of 17 celebrated her first year in business with a cocktail reception at her Ardmore Salon and Spa , Nbeauty INC Hair Skin Body. Naeemah also has a place in Philly at 3933 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19132

Karen Cox and Jen Su

Guests enjoyed lite bites and cocktails as technicians demonstrated the NBeauty brand signature hair and skin care product line.

Afea Tucker and Michelle Conron
Guests at opening of Nbeauty Inc
Jada Kent; Alexis Campbell; Naaemah Johnson; and Anisa Johnson

Johnson’s work has been published in numerous trade and hair magazines. She’s been interviewed for expert advice for national networks like BET.

The full-service salon and spa have expert cosmetologists and estheticians on staff that specialize in advanced skin treatments, extensions, hair and lash extensions, and hair coloring and styling.

Traci Hilton and Anitra Small

Nbeauty INC Hair Skin Body. Stop by and pay us a visit at, 3933 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19132. or 6 Greenfield Ave. Ardmore , PA 19003 Thanks Talya Hailey for shooting this event.

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Around Town With HughE

Adam Sandler Attends ‘Hustle’ Premiere with Mom; M Night Parties with Jonathan Groff

Hollywood came to Philly last night at the Philadelphia Film Center on Tuesday, June 7, 2022 as Adam Sandler, Kenny Smith, Juancho Hernangomez walked the red carpet for the screening of Hustle, directed by Philly’s own Jeremiah Zagar (I saw his first film, it was about his dad mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar and mom Julia, about 12 years ago.)

Judy Sandler and son, actor Adam Sandler

Speaking of mom’s, Adam brought his mom Judy Sandler to the screening in Philly, which brought all the headline attention from around the globe to the Philly showing of Hustle, which had already screened in LA and NYC. Thanks Adam!!

Actor/basketball player Juancho Hernangómez hugs director of Hustle Jeremiah Zagar
Adam Sandler and Jeremiah Zagar, Director of Hustle
Billy King, former general manager of the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers

Hustle is streaming on Netflik’s now. I would definitely watch it again, if not for the story, which was fun, and funny, but the co-star PHILADELPHIA was beautiful!!! – movie review

Tierra Whack, a Philadelphia Rapper who makes a cameo in Hustle.
Tobias Harris and Jasmine Winton

Speaking for Tobias Harris, his BFF operates Crumbl Cookies in Wynnewood, earlier this week actor Rupert Grint stopped by for a few treats. (Last night he was spotted at Lola’s Garden. My friends tells me he posed for a few photos with fans, but mostly enjoyed his meal) He’s in the area finishing up M. Night Shyamalan movie “Knock at the Cabin”, which is filming mostly in the Philly burbs, although they have filmed a few times in South Philly. I haven’t done my normal sleuthing as I’ve been overwhelmed with the very hot, hot social season which is happening right now.

Louie Louie 70’s style French inspired Bistro
3611 Walnut Street
Speaking of great outdoor dining

Speaking of hot, around town guy Kevin McKeown (l) ran into actors Jonathan Groff and Ben Aldridge near Rittenhouse Square yesterday. They’re also here for Night’s movie “Knock on the Cabin”, which had it’s wrap party Saturday night at Harper’s Garden sources tell me. The film wraps this upcoming Friday. Maybe Groff will stop by the Bike Stop again for a farewell drink?

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Sofitel Philadelphia: Art Exhibit Returns, as does Pride

Last week Sofitel Philadelphia at Rittenhouse Square and J. Nunez Gallery present a special happy hour, art reception and influencer mixer on Wednesday, May 4, 2022. After a pause during the pandemic, Sofitel is excited to bring back its monthly, quarterly and annual signature events – including new art installations in the Sofitel lobby. It was a beautiful event, fun to see everyone out and about, enjoying themselves and the highlights on Liberté’s new spring menu. It’s good to see the folks at the Sofitel, Anthony Geistwite, (r) and the team at Sofitel Philadelphia. There’s a lot of plans in the works, as Philly and events bounce back, especially at the Sofitel, not only is it a hotel with a restaurant but it serves Philly as a community advocate. The exhibit is Travel by Colors by artist Dana Salzone (c)

Angela Bauer, the hotel’s general manager “Sofitel Philadelphia is passionate about supporting our local community,” said Angela Bauer, the hotel’s general manager. “We are prouder than ever to celebrate June as Philly Pride Month and fly a giant Philadelphia Pride rainbow flag outside the hotel to publicly show our commitment to inclusiveness.”

No hotel in Philly celebrates Pride with gusto as the Sofitel. The Sofitel in Rittenhouse Square is preparing to expand its annual observance of Pride Month with a lineup of special events. The hotel is also bringing back its Drag Afternoon Tea series each Saturday in June from 2 to 4 p.m. at its restaurant Chez Colette Brasserie. I will definitely be there the first Saturday June 4th, with my pearls on.

Proceeds from the drag series are being donated to the William Way LGBTQ Community Center to support its ongoing programming and services.

On June 4, Brittany Lynn is hosting one of three afternoon teas. Lynn runs Philly Drag Mafia, a drag performance collective featuring nearly 20 artists and performers. Lynn is the creator of Drag Queen Story Time at Philly’s schools, parks, libraries and museums. 

On June 4, Brittany Lynn is hosting one of three afternoon teas. Lynn runs Philly Drag Mafia, a drag performance collective featuring nearly 20 artists and performers. Lynn is the creator of Drag Queen Story Time at Philly’s schools, parks, libraries and museums.  (Then we can head to the Roots Picnic)

Through June and the rest of the year, Sofitel will donate $1 per each banquet menu item sold that features the William Way Community Center logo to the LGBTQ organization. 

Additionally, for every Liberté cocktail sold in the Liberté Lounge during June, Sofitel will donate $1 to William Way. Proceeds raised from the drink special will go toward William Way’s programs for LGBTQ elders, as well as its Trans Resource Center. 

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What Philly Wore Week of April 10th

Hello readers, this past week I started a new series on Instagram “What Philly Wore” , which has turned out to be fairly popular. I was thinking on Fridays or Saturday I will post some of my favorite shots of What Philly Wore on ChitChat. I love the photo above. I stopped by the newly opened Van Leeuwen Ice Cream spot near Rittenhouse Square. Fox 29’s Good Day Alex Holley was “celebrating” her birthday with a namesake ice cream flavor, lavender birthday cake, probably not the official name but what I was tasting. It was delicious. The photo above are people waiting to come inside, with Sofia Pignitor, Cashman & Associates looking on (left).

How wonderful: One of the first photos I shot was this person walking down the street with angel wings on. If that wasn’t a sign of success, I don’t know what is…

If you write me like this young man, I will send you your photo….

A neatly and stylishly dressed man can be described as dapper.

Shoe Power with orange accent hair

These two didn’t know each other before I took this photo, but they do have similar taste. (WDAS Women of Excellence)

We are less than one month away from the second annual AACR Day of Giving. Save the date for May 6 as the entire AACR community comes together to raise critical funds for cancer research. Visit the link in our bio and help us reach our goal of 250 donors by donating. #researchsaveslives

The filming of a commercial in Rittenhouse Square. Not sure if it was part of the big production filmed in No Libs and Old City earlier this week, but thanks to my readers for tipping me off.

At the Young Friends Soiree at Barnes Foundation Thursday 4/14/22: Trell and Jus Rome

Never too much to wear something that makes others go wow. I wish I wasn’t running so late to dinner to meet Brandon Szeker at Mixto (hadn’t been there in a decade, still as delicious as ever), cause we all want to know where was she going dressed like this on a Tuesday night. She had just paid for parking.

What are you doing for dinner this weekend, how about Louie Louie

Two shereos who save lives through their work: Sheryl Lee Ralph, actress, activist and part time Philly resident who’s been married to Sen. Vincent Hughes for nearly 20 years (2005) and Dr. Ala Stanford, founder of the Black Doctors COVID19 Consortium both were honored at the WDAS Women of Excellence luncheon.

Tulip Season

Thank You: The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society planted 70,000 bulbs in Philadelphia’s iconic Logan Square this past fall season which are now reaching their peak bloom. They will wrap this iconic Philadelphia location in a beautiful array of rainbow colors, welcoming the spring season. These blooms are now at their peak and are expected to retain their beauty (depending on weather) through April 22, 2022.

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Legacy Gala – Celebrating Maestro Scaglione’s 25th Anniversary

Philadelphia City Councilmember Helen Gym, Maestro Louis Scaglione , City Representative Sheila Hess and Councilmember David Oh, who presented citations to Maestro Scaglione on the occassion of his 25 years of leading the PYO

For more than 80 years, Philadelphia Youth Orchestra Music Institute has been home to Philadelphia’s most esteemed musical training for young musicians. Continuing the Institute’s legacy of great leadership, Maestro Louis Scaglione has dedicated 25 years of service to expand PYO Music Institute’s programs and reach hundreds of students each year.

The Legacy Gala is a black-tie evening with 250 people celebrating the 25 th
Anniversary of Maestro Louis Scaglione with an art show and sale by Studio
Incamminati in the Union League’s Library Lounge and Lincoln Memorial, in the
ballroom for ceremonial presentations, 110 outstanding student musicians
playing with Concertmaster David Kim, fabulous food and dancing to the Eddie
Bruce Orchestra. Special Guests include City Representative Sheila Hess, City
Council members David Oh and Helen Gym and city and cultural arts leaders.

The evening started out with a Reception and Art Show and Sale by Studio Incamminati. The art created during the reception was then auction off with the proceeds split between the art studio and PYO.
Studio Incamminati is a nonprofit art school for Contemporary Realist Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was founded by the world renowned portrait painter Nelson Shanks in 2002

Leo Levinson, Lynn Levinson, Eric and Marylee Matzrin with Trang and Wayne Schuh

Ed and Kim Kocur
Anne Callahan (Always bringing the fashion) and Charles Croce with guest

John Lloyd and Christie Branigan

Karen Corbin, Chief Operating Officer at The Philly POPS and Joshua Thomas, Vice President of External Affairs at The Philly POPS

Porsche Hill and Banjani Hill
Sharla Feldscher and granddaughter Ryan

Maestro Louis Scaglione, Leona Shanks, Studio Incamminati in Philadelphia and son Alexander, a talented artist in his own right.

Mark Nicoletti, Mark Gisi and Christine Taylor

Ehren L. Valmé and Helen Wang

Frank Giordano, President and CEO of Philly Pops, Dotti Giordano, Violinist David Kim was named concertmaster of The Philadelphia Orchestra and Matías Tarnopolsky, President and CEO · The Philadelphia Orchestra & The Kimmel Center, Inc.

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Philly To Do

Meet Bugsy Drake from Bravo TV’s Below Deck this Weekend at the Philly Home Show

Last week I attended the Philly Home Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. It was thrilling on a couple levels: to be out again at a large trade show, surrounded by potential products which could bring such happiness to my life.

If only I had hardwood floors, I would have picked this up. I am fascinated by sales people. They are extroverted, engaging and convincing. It was such a bargain I was thinking as I walked away, there must be someone I know who needs this, but it’s so hard to wrap I thought.

Not surprisingly I found so many interesting products I would need. Soon I will be growing these flowers on my terrace.

in one of these Vegepod USA. It’s perfect for your backyard too, as the netting keeps out deer they tell me
Jeffrey Sidelsky was spotted on the first day

as was my husband Mike, who picked up the Vitamix Pro before the end of the day. I’m looking forward to a delicious breakfast with a straw among other delights.

Use this Link for Discounted Tickets to Philly Home Show

Bugsy Drake says know the plants you are planting and understand the climate… know the size they will grow to ensure it fits your garden aesthetically. Draw up a mapped out plan and create a vision board to get an idea of exactly what it will look like. Incorporate pops of color… it’s so important to have color in your life… make sure the look suits the type of house you have. Where I come from, having an indigenous garden is a big thing but it’s also nice to incorporate some exotics in your garden. Just like a tablescape… play with different textures, colors and heights. It is also satisfying to grow plants and flowers that you can bring into your home.
Get ideas for your ultimate dream man cave! Exhibitors such as Retrocade showcasing their unique custom-built arcade cabinets, custom He Sheds, accessories with ManCave Basics Plus, numerous hot tub selections, high-tech massage chairs from different exhibitors, and more!

I adore the Mischell’s interior design booth, you must check out the end chairs they have featured. Their booth is located conveniently when you walk into the showroom.

Bugsy Drake, the Chief Stewardess of Bravo TV’s show Below Deck Mediterranean will be live and in-person to meet fans at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on Saturday, March 26th at the exhibit Affinity Furniture in aisle 800. , March 26th from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. Book signing + Meet and Greet at the exhibit for Affinity Furniture in aisle 800. 1- 2 p.m. Come out for a DIY Workshop with Bugsy at the exhibit, Make It Take in aisle 1000.

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Celebrities in Philly

Lee Daniels, Glenn Close, Andra Day Coming to Philly to Film; Bugsy Drake at Philly Home Show

Philly Home Show (use this link for a discount)

According to Variety…. Philadelphia born Lee Daniels will direct “Demon House,” based on the story of an Indiana family (Ammons) that has claimed to be a victim of demonic possession. Several Hollywood players, including MGM and Miramax, were vying for rights to the Oscar-nominated director’s upcoming project. Netflix’s $65 million price tag — a hefty sum covering the film’s production budget and buyouts — secured the sale, according to Deadline Hollywood, who broke the news of Netfliks purchase.

I had mentioned in December Lee Daniels would be filming Demon House in our area after attending a Phildanco event where Daniels was to be honored, but wasn’t able to make it. At that event Sharon Pinkenson announced he’d be back in our area to do this film. Thanks to the GPFO and all the work they do to secure these projects.

Idris Elba in Concrete Cowboy starring Caleb McLaughlin which filmed in Philly August 2019

Demon House reunites Daniels and Andra Day, who recently worked together on Hulu’s musical biographical drama “The United States vs. Billie Holiday.” Rounding out the cast includes Glenn Close, Octavia Spencer, Rob Morgan, “Stranger Things” actor Caleb McLaughlin (who filmed Concrete Cowboy in 2019) and “King Richard” breakout Aunjanue Ellis.

The Bagan family moved into the house after the Ammons and did a documentary on their experience. This was their promotional poster.

Here’s my scoop: Look for Demon House to begin filming in our area at the end of April and continue until June. It’ll be filmed in Philadelphia, Sun Studios and my sources tell me in New Jersey.

The Philly Home Show March 18th through 20th and 25th through 27th at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. Discover. Plan. Do. Two weekends only for great deals, new ideas, and practical advice, with trusted, local experts that can make your dream home a reality;

provided

Bugsy Drake of “The Queen of Theme” is widely known for her role as Chief Stew on Bravo’s Below Deck Mediterranean, Christine “Bugsy” Drake, can be seen dazzling luxury yacht guests with her signature tablescapes and over-the-top theme parties.

Bugsy will be appearing in the Affinity Furniture booth (#824) Saturday, March 26 from 12noon-1pm. She will be signing books and meeting fans. While there you can admire her beautiful tablescapes created using Affinity Furniture tables Philly Home Show

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Sugar Bottom Hemp Company in Bucks County Grows A Loyal Community

On occasion I featured sponsored posts. Most you know I am sober so I haven’t tried CBD, but I know many people who use CBD for health benefits, whether for anxiety, assistance with sleep, or body aches. Sugar Bottom Hemp Company is a local farm located in Bucks County. Here’s their story.

Over the short span of just 3 years Sugar Bottom Hemp Company (SBH-Co) has done the hard work of growing a premium quality hemp crop and producing a superior line of CBD topical and ingested products, all with Certificates of Analysis (COA) documenting the contents and levels of active ingredients.

Our CBD Hemp Flower is proudly grown on our farm in Central Bucks County, PA, without pesticides or other harmful contaminants. We are compliant with all State and Federal laws in growing hemp under 0.3% THC, founding partner Stephenie Harris.

The work SBH-Co is done to the highest and most rigorous standards because the mission is offering relief to people suffering from stress, anxiety, age, injury and work related chronic pain and debilitating sleep disorders.

FROM TRAGEDY TO PURPOSE OUR REASON FOR BEING

About 7 years ago, Tanya, the beloved spouse of Sugar Bottom Hemp Company (SBH-Co) founding partner Stephenie Harris, was diagnosed with Early Onset Dementia. The course and trajectory of the disease is awful and affects everyone in its path. Stress and burnout are typical in caregivers; confusion, agitation and depression are common emotions in the patient.

Stephenie found cannabidiol to be very effective in dealing with her overwhelming condition. And the effects for Tanya are astounding. While it isn’t a cure, it provided both “patient and caregiver” a simple therapeutic solution leading to happier days. The disease continues to progress and extracted hemp oil is a supplement in her daily care. SBH_Co products benefit Tanya’s daily wellbeing, focus and ability to deal with stress, and anxiety.

The work SBH-Co is done to the highest and most rigorous standards because the mission is offering relief to people suffering from stress, anxiety, age, injury and work related chronic pain and debilitating sleep disorders.
“With skepticism about the benefits, reinforced lately by the proliferation of unregulated low quality products from a marketplace of commoditizated on CBD extracts, SBH-Co has held true to the values of the historic farming traditions of Bucks County,” says Stephenie.

Ultimately the proof is in the experiences of the people who have embraced the SBH-Co product line.  Head here to read a few opinions. Additional articles can be found here, CBSPhilly , Bucks County Times,

Thanks: The information contained in these topics is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, it is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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HughE Around Town & That Halloween Video

Today I woke up, sometimes I forget what a blessing, a privilege it is. Why am I here, sometimes I think. I’m not sure but as my mother in law Eleanor Tobe always quoted:

I shall pass through this world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.

Stephen Grellet

Fox 29 Announces The Nice Guy Reporter, gets a nice promotion!! Congrats Bill !!

I’ve been neglectful doing this specific post, which I love so much, which I did much more before I got into Social Media and just shared immediately there. But here goes today’s column and I shall return once a week to doing this. It’s odd I have definitely become more lazy post pandemic, or shall I say I cherish my personal time and I get behind. That personal time might be bird watching, watching TV, specifically The Voice, and stalking movie sets. Thankfully Nick Nolte has left the City and I won’t be curious anymore about what he is doing in Rittenhouse Square. Hope you guys have a delicious weekend, and enjoy the Halloween sights, if it’s your thing. I hope to hit up a few parties on Saturday, and neighborhoods on Sunday, including Northern Liberties Hound O Ween Dog Contest. Seriously, I can’t wait to go.

Style Scene Stealer: I photographed this women walking her dog near the Adam Sandler film set a few weeks ago at 15th and Walnut Streets. I LOVE her fashion sense. Those are serious boots with probably the best stories. I wish when I took these candid shots I’d ask people more about their style. Maybe when this Covid thing is finally over, I’ll do my fashion on the street again with Q&A. I do miss Big Rube’s Daily News column. That was fun.

Speaking of style, last night Moore College hosted their 2021 Visionary Women Award evening. (more on that next week). I was chitchatting with Ellen Shepp, who I just say at Shyamaween on Saturday night. She was a judge for best costume. I wasn’t there at that time so let me share with you the winners.

Dave Williams here with his wife Mia Tinari and SIL Nina Tinari and these folks on the right. So good everyone!!

Congratulations to Ilana Waber on her engagement after Nick Gianos popped the question 4 days after her birthday, in beautiful Rittenhouse Square where they met when she asked to pet his dog.

A fundraiser for Judge Lori A. Dumas who is running for Commonwealth Court of PA, was held last night at the Union League. About 100 people came out to support Lori just a few days before the election on November 2 including Nathanial Wallace, Patrick Mahanger, Judge Lori Dumas, Dr. Kevin Baumlin, Mona Terrell Wallace. Spotted were Roslyn Gilbert, John Scott, the Carpenter’s Union, Morgan Wilson, Thanuja Hamilton, Matt Cooke, Brenda Goldsmith, and Dr. Argie Allen-Wilson. Senator Casey appeared via video throwing his support behind Judge Dumas and thanking the guests for their support.

Really proud of this work. I know I was on TV for years, but somewhere along the way I got stage fright and stopped. I worked on somethings over the years, especially doing my elevator chats on InstaStories. I got out of my head, and worked on my self confidence and this beautifully produced promo by Chatterblast is the best of my work in front of the camera in years. Although some of my Sandler interviews were good as well. I feel good now, back in front of the camera. Anywho thanks to Matthew Ray and the Chatterblast team, especially editing, sound, and MAKE UP this was a blast. My mom gives it her stamp of approval. What’s so good is Sheila. It took a lot of control to tone down her always cheerleader enthusiasm, to play Morticia, a self assured vixen!!

Amen!! Thanks Lane Johnson for keeping it real, and helping to remove the stigma of mental health as something to be embarrassed about. We are all going through sometime. Thanks so much for subscribing and reading PhillyChitChat.

Have a fantastic weekend.

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Celebrate Valentine’s Day at LOVE PARK & Buy A Granite Keepsake

Love, exciting and new
Come aboard. we’re expecting you.
Love, life’s sweetest reward. The theme of the Love Boat always plays in my head when I pass through Love Park. I always stop and shoot the iconic art work, as well as capture happy folks posing with the Robert Indiana sculpture. (I love Love Park’s new branding logo. This was clever.)

Recently the beloved park added a visitors gift shop on site for the purchase of LOVE keepsakes. here you will find the much in demand LOVE Park granite keepsakes (center pix I took back in December) on sale at the LOVE Park Gift Shop!


The beautiful keepsakes were cut from the original LOVE Park granite and are available for purchase at LOVE Park in the Gift Shop, housed in the bright red restored shipping container located near the 16th & Arch side of the park. These keepsakes make a great gift for Valentine’s Day, or for anyone trying to share a little love with a fan of Philly’s favorite park. We also have t-shirts, mugs, hats, onesies, magnets, and other LOVE Park items for sale there as well! The Gift Shop will be open 6am-5pm on Valentine’s Day, and 11am-5pm the day before, on 2/13. It’s open on a weather-dependent basis, really if the temperature is above 50 degrees, from 11-5 daily, and regular hours will likely be 11-7pm 7 days a week starting April 1 and please feel free to message us on Instagram @loveparkphilly for any questions you may have!

On Friday at Love Park: Power 99 FM, Philadelphia’s Hip Hop and R&B, will celebrate Valentine’s Day in style by hosting a “Rise & Get Married with Rise & Grind” wedding ceremony. Power 99’s “Rise & Grind Morning Show” will marry three couples at Philadelphia’s iconic LOVE sculpture on February 14, following a live station broadcast from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and will be sponsored by Philadelphia’s Department of Parks & Recreation and Fairmount Park Conservancy.

The morning show hosts, Mikey Dredd, Mutha Knows and Roxy Romeo will each be ordained as ministers to officiate the ceremony and select the three lucky couples. (More Info on event here)

One more thing. This I Heart Philly exhibit was supposed to be temporary but it was so popular that Love Park has made it permanent. It’s not in place right now as they sent it out to be fortified and beautified. It wasn’t built to be permanent, as I mentioned, so it wasn’t made of the material that could sustain thousands of people touching it, hugging it and standing on it. It will return in time for the warm weather, which according to Phil is going to be in 4 more weeks. Then we can all love it once again. See you on Friday at Love Park. Check out Love Park’s FB Page Here!!