PHILADELPHIA FIREWORKS RAIN OR SHINE July 4th says City Representative Melanie Johnson

But before we get to that, on Thursday as part of the http://www.americasbirthday.com/ celebration the Ben Franklin Parkway played host once again to a "Fiesta on the Parkway"

I was there about 3PM when the event began as my Firm closed early for the July 4th Holiday )Thanks Joe), but I could see that in a few hours kids of all ages would enjoy lots of things to do andeatdolisten and dance but as I made my way down the Parkway I saw something new this year it was NBA on the Parkway?? It is a new day, where did that come from, was it on the schedule? I'll look... "What’s more, the NBA Nation Presented by T-Mobile and Kia Motors tour bus will roll into Philly with interactive games, videos of the 50 greatest NBA plays and other hands-on activities. " Yep there it was, as part of the Fiesta on the Parkway. Guess they weren't going for any world record line dances this year, but these kids were breakdancing, do they still call it that?
but I was entertain by this. Lots of in the air dunks.
There was also an exhibit where you could compare your arm length to a few NBA players

or put your feet in their foot prints. Beverly was kind enough to try out Kobe Bryant's SIZE 14 for me.
Then I made my way over to the stage on the Art Museum steps where the staging area was just about complete.

it seemed like only yesterday, er Tuesday when that they started putting it together. If you want to catch John Legend rehearsing for the big concert tonight, stop by about NOON, that's when they usually run through the event.Breaking News: Here's the new 2008, new administration logo on which the parade participants will stop and perform tonight. Gosh I hope it doesn't rain again this year.
Promising to avoid a repeat of last year's fireworks fiasco, City Representative Melanie Johnson said Philadelphia's holiday display will go off rain or shine tomorrow night - on time, or with plenty of notice if there will be a delay.
The fireworks are set to begin at 11 over the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Last year, with the threat of rain and lightning, those gathered on the Parkway waiting for the display were told to go home because the 10:45 p.m. show was canceled. About 40 minutes later, after the crowd dispersed, the fireworks began.
This year, the fireworks are set to begin after the R&B singer John Legend ends his set and leaves the stage.
But once again, the forecast threatens showers and thunderstorms, which could last throughout the weekend.
"Rain won't stop us," says Johnson. "The only thing that will delay the fireworks is if the weather is severe."
And if that happens, Johnson promised to put the public announcement system to good use.
The Sunoco Sweet Sounds of Liberty Concert and Fireworks begins at 8:30 p.m. in front of the Art Museum with the sounds of Philly's own Russell Tompkins Jr. and the New Stylistics, followed by Legend and ending in fireworks. (This will be my view again this year)

http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20080703_Philadelphias_July_4_fireworks_rain_or_shine.html

As far as parking is concern, take mass transit, or park in Center City and walk to the BF Parkway. Even if you did find parking, leaving after the event is a nightmare. Happy Fourth of July, be safe and Happy Anniversary to my blog - 1 Year Old today!! (Almost 100ks hits in a year, pretty darn good for a blog I didn't promote enough; this year that will all change)

DECLARE YOUR INDEPENDENCE BY dumping the traditional hotel and Booking a Night at THE INDEPENDENT Philadelphia's New Classy Boutique Hotel

Style and substance are at the core of my choice for a boutique hotel and the newly opened Independent fits the bill. "Boutique hotel is a term popularised in North America and the United Kingdom to describe intimate, usually luxurious or quirky hotel environments. Boutique hotels differentiate themselves from larger chain/branded hotels and motels by providing personalized accommodation and services / facilities. " The Independent at an address to remember 1234 Locust Street Philadelphia Pa 215-772-1440

Last week I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony (R-L) Stephanie Esposito, Vice President of Group Sales of Hersha Hotels, one of my hero's (are you keeping count, did I ever mention I was a Foundation of Architecture Tour Guide for 7 years, there's a theme here with who I admire most in this City) Director, CEO Meryl Levitz of GPTMC and Neil H. Shah, President of Hersha Hospitality, do the honors. Down this hall you will find 8 out of the 24 most beautifully appointed rooms that have graced Philadelphia. The Independent's design reflects a charming sophistication that is consistent with the building's architecture and the local area of Midtown Village. Interior Designer, Robert Moskowitz of Rittenhouse Interior Design Group, has redefined the four-story building's interior, bringing a chic- refined aesthetic to the warm and inviting hotel. The 24-room charmer features hardwood floors, exposed brick, cathedral ceilings, and flat panel HDTVs. Oversized guest rooms range in size up to 470 square feet and are divided into ten standard rooms, twelve deluxe rooms, a gracious suite, and a residential duplex suite. Guest rooms feature hardwood floors with New Zealand Wool area rugs, custom window treatments, Robert Allen custom bedding, and the finest pillow-top mattresses available -- Serta Presidential. Each room enjoys a variety of unique features such as fireplaces, exposed brick walls, cathedral ceilings, French windows, or loft bedrooms.

Having stayed in a few of Ian Schrager's boutique hotels (let's call him the father of boutique hotels) in NYC like the Hudson Hotel, The Parmount or The Gramercy, I have to say that the Independent has the same style and class but far more bang for your buck ($199 rack rate) and the rooms are twice the size. Philadelphia has been a world class city for awhile, and now we have a world class boutique hotel.

Most of the window views are of the wonderful Philly skyline, or the English garden next door.But all of them contain the brains that are located in the phone system which are placed in the room on the desk or on the night table. The phone operates an energy control system. As the guest enters the room, the phone is activated and the rooms temperature is elevated to an occupied mode. The guest then has normal control of the room's electrical and HVAC systems through the phone. The system eliminates the need for sensors to be mounted on the wall or ceiling. When a guest leaves the room he can check out via the phone and the room goes into "unoccupied mode." In this mode the room's HVAC system's operating temperature ranges are set back and the power to the switches and plugs is turned off to reduce energy consumption. The phone also controls the TV, the lighting system, the thermostat in the bathroom and most importantly the "Do Not Disturb" sign, which will be lit outside the door so no one will disturb you. No more getting up and placing the darn thing on the door knob. The bathrooms by the way are chic, carry fine skin care products and shampoos that would've found their way into my pockets had they not already been occupied with camera batteries, note pad and pen. (Oh the funny story I could tell you when I stayed at the Paramount last year, but it's 2:30AM on a work night)
Some bathrooms have exposed brick, which I found a bit sexy (blush) and could become rather steamy with those hot weekend rates the hotel has been promoting ($149). It was interesting for me to see that other hotel management was invited to check out the Independent. I was told that this is done because if the said hotel is overbooked they might consider sending guests over to the Independent or visa versa. Did I mention that each room comes with a mini refrigerator and microwave. I would suggest that you cancel that Marriott Residential hotel reservation and book a week here instead.
After the touring was done lunch was serves, which was catered by John Stock who served Philly's favorite mini hoagies, sandwiches, salad and delicious lemon bars. Drinks were served on the house marble breakfront, where a continental breakfast and evening cocktails will be served.
I also had a chance to meet these lovely ladies and talk about the Independent and the quaint MidTown Village. (L-R) Ann Lage, Rittenhouse Interior Design Group, Denise S. Kaminski, Mgr. Royal Bank America and Debbie Gilmore (Royal Bank America). The hotel's lobby is accented by a crystal chandelier and features a 30-foot by 8-foot, hand-painted work of art created by local muralist, Kim Senior. Senior is an accomplished Philadelphia artist whose mural and screen paintings can be seen around the city in both classical and contemporary styles. For The Independent, she has created a vibrant image of Philadelphia's Independence Hall, which spans three stories, rising from the hotel's lobby. Moskowitz's design paired with Senior's vivid piece de resistance offers guests a tailored, soothing feel amidst a rich color palette. (Check out Kim Senior's work here and read the story of how she painted the mural SIDEWAYS!! http://kimsenior.blogspot.com/ ) The lobby is also where you may meet anyone of the helpful people below,

but there's a good chance you will find Jim Evans the Resident Manager of The Independent, who can answer your questions, send you off to a nice restaurant or direct to your desired location.Finally, the hotel is stylish and chic, but I think you will want to stay here because you'll like the intimacy, the comfortable beds, the breakfast, the location, and especially the price. BREAKING NEWS: Last minute 4th of July rate they are offering for the entire weekend, it is $139 a night.

PS Have A Safe Holiday Weekend, but if you're near a computer I will be posting over the next three days, it's a selfish thing as I am nearing my year anniversary and I want to go over the 100ks mark by the time I hit it Monday. Also I want to stay on top of the timing of my photos. I want to get the events to you in real time ie the day after I shoot it, unless of course something is going to be published as I have those contracts that limited me from scooping the paper. Thanks so much for stopping by.

Kit Kittredge: An American Girl versus Hancock re: The Battling Smith's at the Box Office

Did you know that Philadelphia born Will Smith's nickname is Mr July by the media, no not because of his biggest movie ever, "Independence Day" but it's due to the fact that most of his summer blockbusters open in July. Today just adds to the number of times that has happened, it's the opening of his movie "Hancock"; perhaps he has passed along this good fortune to his 7 year old daughter Willow who has her own movie opening up today...Kit Kittredge: An American Girl. That explains why Will did not show up on the Red Carpet for the premiere of her movie last week. Here's the press pen I am about to be put into. Sucks living in Philly, I always get up there late and miss the prime spots.

Here's the Will Smith family now. Mom Jada Pinka-Smith (Looking hot) watches over Willow and son Jaden as the get "lit up". (Interesting the daughter is named Willow (after day Will Smith), son named Jaden (after mom Jada Pinka-Smith) born July 8, 1998 Austin Macdonald: Born July,17,1995 greets his fans

Ought oh, Paris Hilton has been a bad influence on these girls - The Clique Girlz are an American girl group from Atlantic City, New Jersey that is comprised of sisters Paris (born January 9, 1996) and Destinee Monroe (born June 16, 1994) and their best friend Ariel Moore (born July 27, 1994). The girls were formerly known as Clique in 2004 before changing their name. Where the hell are there parents? SOME of the photographers refused to shoot them as they turned off by the way they were dressed, I shot them for the blog. (UPDATE: I removed my description of how they were dressed. I listened to them on You Tube and they good voices, but I think that they dress inappropriate for 12 & 13 year olds, especially for something like "The American Doll" movie. On their website they look a lot more age appropriate. http://www.cliquegirlz.com ; It doesn't matter how talented you are, my mom never let me listen to Madonna til I was 18)

Ahh back to the wholesome Chris O'Donnell, his wife Caroline and five daughters.The Smith Family again
Jaden is going to be a big star like his dad, someday.

Julia Ormond stunningly beautiful, classy and professional

Unlike this piece of work who refused to take off her sunglasses on the Red Carpet. I have yet to get a good shot of Julia Roberts where she doesn't look like
a dog. She's the co-producer, with her sister Lisa, she's here to promote her movie and she's the biggest name on the carpet and she has this sourpuss face (I yearn for the big toothy smile that she gives in the movies or in interviews for the masses to see). Another hound in the movie is pictured below who was more cooperative and has no airs.

Actor Maximillion Drake "Max" Thieriot is bound to break some hearts in the future

Spencer Breslin, who's currently in "The Happening" signs for fans and came to the premiere to support his sisterAbigail, you know the little girl from "Little Miss Sunshine", she also starred in Charlotte's Web where coinkinky Julia Roberts was the spider, Charlotte. Connections, it's all about who you know. Across the street you can see the fans who have lined up to see a glimpse of a few celebrities. If you want to see a good premiere coming up check out Mama Mia with Meryl Streep on 7/16 at the Ziegfeld in NYC.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!! Thanks!!

We had a lot of kids in our family. One of those blended families. Mom married dad when I was nine. Believe it or not, I took this picture of Granpop L walking mom down the aisle.

SO the ages in the household were 11, 9, 8, 8, 7, 6, (and crista not born yet) . Christmas in our house was a big production, in fact every holiday, birthday and death of a pet was a big production.

Mom always had sliced apples and grapes ready for us to grabbed when we came home from school (to give us the energy to sweep the sidewalk, feed the dogs or go out and play kick ball, I chose the latter the most.) Dinner was at 5PM, 'cause after working all day long, dad would have to go back to work on some nights just to make enough money to pay for our braces. My brother and I would get to spend every Wednesday night with mom, either shopping, having banana splits at the Cherry Hill Mall Woolworth's or going to the arcade. Mom plays a mean game of air hockey.
Dad continued to work hard so he could pay for my 5 sisters weddings, 'cause when you have FIVE sisters, that's a lot of weddings to pay for (plus mom likes to shop.) Mom was always there taking care of us, raising us, and occassionally raising a open hand to smack us if we got out of line. It's true that nice women on the left who looks like one of my sisters, has a mean Sicilian slap in her, but it was better than that Irish anger Mom's punishment didn't work. Eventually mom learned that just making me sit in a chair in the dining room for an hour or making me stay in my boring bedroom worked much better, I like to talk, so isolation was a worse punishment. Dad died doing what he loved second to his family, after a long fishing day. That was 4 years ago (see 4/13/08 entry). Here's Mom and Dad in 2003, at Mom's other big birthday.Mom always made time for the girls, and they are all really close. (2006)Two years ago the last one got married, Crista. (2006) Mom with my sister Crista's son, Michael, their pride and joy. They say he looks like me, but he has more hair. Happy Birthday Mom, and thanks. (2008)P.S. My sister Judy, and her husband Walt at Crista's wedding. Keep her in your thoughts as we got more bad news today. (She and her husband have one of the great love affairs and set a good example for their kids, just like my mom and dad)

GREAT CHEFS: ALEX'S LEMONADE GALA re: Cancer sucks, it's one of my favorite charities to support

(I posted something on Sunday too, so check out the Strongman Competition held over the weekend, now on to today:) A couple blocks of Broad Street around Fairmount were closed to traffic 6/18 as the "Great Chefs Event" was held to benefit the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation. The Great Chefs Event: The Great Chefs Event is an annual fundraising event that started in 2006 with Philadelphia’s greatest chefs coming together to support Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation in the fight against childhood cancer. In 2007, The Great Chefs Event grew into a national endeavor with several of the greatest chefs from across the country traveling to Philadelphia to join in support of this event.

Volunteers from Rita's Water Ice with the Alex's Lemonade Stand ice sculpture; Tanya and Madalyn
Donna Coghan and Charlie Pasquale Megan & Adam Spivak (I used to work for Adam's father at HA Winstons, a hundred years ago, in Cherry Hill when I was a teenager)

Joanne Mardes, Nichole Hayward and Becca Elias

Another auction where the generosity of businesses and folks in Philadelphia really came through, thanks. Thanks to the Omni Hotel for putting up all the visiting chefs!! And to all the sponsors and big hug to you!! Oh and the Chefs, love you and your food. Check all the names out at and other photos, but please finish reading Philly Chit Chat first: http://www.alexslemonade.org/great_chefs.php
Twenty Manning Kiong Bahn, Suzy Jun and Jisu Kang
The atrium of Osteria containing some of the chefs. Many of the participating chefs are James Beard Award Winners who travel far and wide to participate in this very special event. All of the chefs donate the food to this event and some even close their restaurants to travel to Philadelphia to be a part of the truly special event. - Kiong Bahn, Twenty Manning, PhiladelphiaJohn Benno, Per Se, New YorkChris Bianco, Pizzeria Bianco, Phoenix Clark Fraiser & Mark Gaier, Arrows/MC Perkins Cove/SummerWinter, Ogunquit, MaineKatsuya Fukushima, Café Atlantico/minibar , Washington D.C.Jose Garces, Amada Restaurant/Tinto/Chilango, Philadelphia Paul Kahan, Blackbird/Avec, ChicagoLachlan Mackinnon-Patterson, Frasca Food and Wine, Boulder, ColoradoJoseph Manzare, Zuppa/Globe/Tres Agaves/Pescheria, San Francisco Jeff Michaud, Osteria, Philadelphia Emilio Mignucci, DiBruno Bros., Philadelphia Luke Palladino, Ombra Restaurant, Atlantic City David Pasternack, Esca Restaurant, New York Bryan Sikora, Talula’s Table Restaurant, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania Michael Solomonov, Marigold Kitchen, Philadelphia Brad Spence, Vetri, Philadelphia Daniel Stern, Gayle/ Rae Restaurant, Philadelphia Marc Vetri, Vetri/Osteria, Philadelphia Rocco Whalen, Fahrenheit Restaurant, Cleveland
Aislinn Fletcher and Erica McLaughlin from the Restaurant School at the most popular station of the night, the dessert table.
Justin and Michael Solomon from Zahav

Ellen Milgrim, Andrew Keiser and Michele Sherman enjoyed all the chefs and were happy to support Alex's Lemonade Charity
David Neff with Gail & John Scardapane of Saladworks, a sponsor.
Robin Blumenfeld Switzenbaum and her brother Eric Blumenfeld
Chase Utley and the girls from Neff & Associates who orchestrated the Great Chefs event this year

Jon Runyan greets Chase Utley I think for the first time

The shot that was in the Inquirer:

http://www.sharpshootermedia.com/2008/06/jack-klugman-peggy-crosby-at-tony.html

Mike Perry, Brooklyn Brewery and Tom Kehoe, Yard's Brewery right here in Philadelphia

Luke Palladino, Ombra Restaurant, Atlantic City

Rocco Whalen, Fahrenheit Restaurant, Cleveland serves a curried chicken spring roll, which I have to say was my favorite. It was unbelievable tasty and after trying several other tables I had to go back for one more. Tom Collichio of Craft Restaurants and 'wichcraft in New York City was a first timer at this third annual event.

Jay Scott, the father of Alex Scott who had the first lemonade stand years ago, says he expects the event to raise $100,000 for research towards a cure for childhood cancers. Next to him here is Alex's mom thanking the guests for coming out to support Alex's Lemonade Great Chef's Event
As the live auction begins,
one of the biggest selling items was a home cooked meal by Jeff Michaud, Marc Vetri and Jeff Benjamin, served by Jay & Liz Scott and entertainment by Phil Roy (on left). Two dinners went for $17,000 eachA few of you may remember that about 6 weeks ago I asked for your prayers as my sister was diagnosed with Stage 3C Ovarian Cancer at 46 years old. Because of a series of misdiagnosis', infections, crappy doctors and now the Mersa infection, she still has not started her Chemo, and it doesn't look like it's in going to be anytime soon. It's been horrible for all of us, and I really don't allow myself to wallow in thought of the unknown except for 5 minutes a day; We would appreciate your prayers and good thoughts for my sister Judy. Thank you.