Kristen Shepherd is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) and Donald R. Caldwell, Chair of PAFA Board, help cut the ribbon to the newly renovated PAFA Museum
Founded on December 26, 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is the oldest art museum and school in the United States. As of 2026, PAFA is 220 years old and is celebrating its 220th anniversary this year, as the country celebrates it’s 250th anniversary. It was established in Philadelphia by painter and scientist Charles Willson Peale and sculptor William Rush.
Sarah and Brad Marshall
It was one of those rare Philadelphia evenings where the city truly dressed the part. Long gowns swept the floors, tuxedos filled the rooms, and for a few hours, PAFA transported us back in time.
John and Leigh Middleton
Philadelphia’s art world had every reason to celebrate this season, as the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts marked its 220th anniversary alongside the debut ofA Nation of Artists, a landmark exhibition presented in partnership with the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Middleton Family Collection.
The night began in the Hamilton Building with registration and a cocktail hour that buzzed with anticipation. But the true highlight came shortly after, when guests made their way next door for the ribbon cutting and rededication of the Historic Landmark Building. Now fully restored and serving as a central home for A Nation of Artists, the space felt both historic and newly alive, linking PAFA’s storied past with its present moment.
Ron and Ellen Caplan, Board Chair of the Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA), Melissa Leonard and Tac Justi, Board member of PMA
Marsden Hartley (modernist, Southwest influence) and one of Mrs Middleton’s favorite pieces she mentioned to me, Georgia O’Keefe and Walter Ufer (Taos, true Southwest painter)
A Nation of Artists brings together an extraordinary range of American works, creating a sweeping visual narrative that spans centuries. Highlights include iconic portraiture such as Charles Willson Peale’s self-portrait and his portrait of George Washington, alongside Thomas Eakins’s powerful The Gross Clinic. Visitors move through lush landscapes by Albert Bierstadt, Frederic Edwin Church, Winslow Homer, and Georgia O’Keeffe, as well as deeply meaningful works from the Civil War era, including a monumental inscribed vessel by the enslaved potter David Drake.
Kyle Simpson and Michelle Azzarello
Kunal Kolia and Hilary Cianciole
Exquisite decor during the reception
Stephanie Stahl and John Trichon
Veronica McKee and Jonathan Hochman
I’m always excited when I spot a Calder in an exhibition
Steve Williamson and Kevin Hackenberg|
John S. Middleton noted, the exhibition is designed to be accessible to all, inviting visitors to discover something new with every visit, while PAFA President and CEO Kristen Shepherd described the moment as transformative for both the institution and the city, bridging its historic legacy with a forward-looking exploration of American art.
The exhibit at PAFA is incredible, truly one of the most exciting shows I’ve seen in a long time. I was especially grateful to thank the Middletons for sharing their collection with Philadelphia during such a meaningful moment in the city’s history. The renovations are stunning, the building feels bright, fresh, and full of energy. This is not a one-and-done visit, it’s the kind of exhibit you come back to again and again, and I already can’t wait to return and spend more time with it.
Have a great weekend. In the meantime, catch me on Instagram for daily updates on what’s happening around Philadelphia.
I’ve also launched a new account focused on upcoming events. I’m often told, “I wish I knew about that,” so this will be a place to find what’s coming up before it happens, things worth checking out across the city.
fred and teresa dibona, Christine DiBona Lobley and Brian Lobley
Held at Urban Outfitters, Inc. headquarters in the Navy Yard, Fred’s Footsteps hosted its annual Party in the Yard fundraiser on March 7, 2026, delivering a night filled with Philadelphia pride, community spirit, and impactful giving raising $348,000 for Local Families.
Lou and Lisa Oswald, Michelle and Rob Perlish
From the moment guests arrived, the energy was unmistakably Philly. The evening’s theme celebrated the city in full force, from locally inspired appetizers and décor to eye-catching, real-life “golden” statues of Rocky Balboa and Benjamin Franklin welcoming attendees.
Adding to the excitement, Swoop made a spirited appearance, while a green screen photo booth transported guests to iconic scenes along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Joe and Yvonne Kolok
One of the most talked-about features of the night was the glowing balloon-and-letter marquee display by Charming Garlands, which quickly became a must-stop photo moment. Meanwhile, 13th Street Cocktail Catering elevated the experience with a custom Philly-themed bar, complete with a steaming manhole cover branded with the Fred’s Footsteps logo—a clever nod to the city’s streetscape.
Jeff DuBose and Joanne Dixon
Meg Kane and Keith Audit
Olivia and Christian Hoban
Since its founding in 2005, Fred’s Footsteps has been dedicated to ensuring that a child’s health is a parent’s only worry. The organization provides critical financial relief to working families caring for medically complex children, serving Philadelphia and 18 surrounding counties across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
Angelo Christopher, Kristin Jones and Mea Coffin
The program featured a high-energy live auction led by Jeff Hammond, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences including a private chef’s table at Osteria, a VIP Philadelphia Eagles training camp experience, and a luxury Philadelphia Phillies suite outing.
Jaron and Tara Parr, Rebecca and Jon Stump
Guests also showed overwhelming generosity during the paddle raise, funding essential needs such as wheelchair-accessible vans, home modifications, and basic household expenses for families facing medical hardship.
Pat and Jen Haddon
From silent auction bids and raffle ticket purchases to enthusiastic paddle raises, every moment of participation contributed to a powerful outcome. By the end of the evening, Fred’s Footsteps raised an impressive $348,000, directly supporting families navigating some of life’s toughest challenges.
Brett Mansfield, Jackie Bradley, Becky and Tom Quirk
Fred’s loves Phillyand once again, Philadelphia showed up.
Thanks for stopping by!! Socially yours, xoxo HughE
Philadelphia is rolling out a new initiative to energize neighborhood business corridors as the nation’s 250th anniversary approaches. The focus is on activating these areas through events, beautification efforts, and community programming.
The campaign,Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration, will spotlight 20 corridors across the city, with the goal of attracting more visitors, supporting small businesses, and creating more vibrant, welcoming commercial districts. “Ring It On! celebrates and uplifts the neighborhoods that define Philadelphia,” said Mayor Cherelle Parker. “Our neighborhoods are the heart of this city.”
The effort, first announced in September, when they first taught us about the City’s ABC’s – activations, beatifications, and celebrations. The plan includes expanding neighborhood festivals, introducing new programming, and enhancing corridors with improvements like tree plantings, upgraded lighting, benches, banners, and bike racks.
Plans are in place, and the City is ready to officially kicked off the Philly 2026 initiatives.
Earlier this month in Point Breeze they held a press conference which coincided with the Point Breeze Market Festival, which brought the corridor to life with live entertainment, local food trucks, vendors, and family-friendly activities.
City officials say the program will extend to two corridors in each of Philadelphia’s 10 City Council districts, reaching neighborhoods from Chinatown and South 9th Street to Germantown, Kensington, and Northeast Philadelphia to celebrate America’s 250th .
According to City Council President Kenyatta Johnson, launching the initiative in Point Breeze underscores the importance of investing in neighborhood commercial districts.
“Investing in our commercial corridors and public spaces is critical to strengthening neighborhoods across Philadelphia,” Johnson said. “I’m energized to see how this effort will have a lasting impact well beyond 2026.”
Kathryn Ott Lovell, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and president and CEO of Philadelphia250,
We are going to make sure that this celebration pours out into the neighborhoods. All of the neighborhoods. We are going to make sure to involve and engage all of these communities
Aramark’s Building Community helped clean up the Point Breeze park finishing off with this cool mural for Philly’s 250th and beyond.
The initiative also includes a yearlong calendar of events ranging from food truck festivals and cultural celebrations to music events, neighborhood fairs and block parties.
Philadelphia’s Block Party Bonanza is open to any block that secures a city block party permit. Once approved, organizers receive a link to apply through Philadelphia250. Selected blocks will be chosen to ensure representation across all 10 City Council districts, with participation determined on a first-come, first-served basis for events held between May 23 and October 3, 2026.
For all the information you need to enjoy the 250 celebrations head HERE
So many great initiatives and celebrations bringing people together, building pride, and showcasing the very best of our City. Stay tuned here, on IG’s PhillyChitChat and especially the City’s IG account.
Women Leading the Way: Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia Celebrates Industry Trailblazers
Philadelphia’s culinary scene came out to support the annual Women in Food Reception hosted by Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia at Chatayee Thai at 1227 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107 earlier this month. A night dedicated to the women shaping what, and how, we eat in this city.
Natanya DiBona, Kate Carr, Vicki Pohl and Jennifer Dolan
The room was filled with an impressive cross-section of chefs, restaurateurs, writers, beverage experts, and hospitality leaders , all connected by one thing: impact. This wasn’t just a networking event, it was a celebration of influence, mentorship, and the future of the industry.
Barbara Jo-Saler, and Fran Costigan
Les Dames d’Escoffier has long been known as a powerhouse network of women in food and hospitality and in Philadelphia, that influence runs deep. From established leaders to rising voices, the organization continues to create space, opportunity, and visibility for women across the industry.
Natalie, Catie, honorees Christopher Hirsheimer and Melissa Hamilton of @canalhouse, Lynn and Giovanna Chiu
One of the highlights of the evening was the announcement of this year’s Heritage Dinner “Outstanding in Her Field” honorees, a recognition that shines a spotlight on women who have made significant contributions to the culinary and hospitality world.
Each year, the Heritage Dinner serves as one of the organization’s signature events — honoring excellence while supporting the next generation through scholarships and mentorship initiatives. It’s where legacy meets opportunity.
Les Dames d’Escoffier has long been known as a powerhouse network of women in food and hospitality — and in Philadelphia, that influence runs deep. From established leaders to rising voices, the organization continues to create space, opportunity, and visibility for women across the industry.
Joy Stocke, Jeannie Houchins and Lani Robling
Membership in Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia is as curated as the talent it represents. This is not a sign-up-and-show-up kind of organization. Women who apply are established professionals in the food, beverage, and hospitality world, typically with years of experience and a strong record of leadership.
The process requires sponsorship from current members and a formal review, ensuring that each Dame brings both credibility and a commitment to giving back. It is a working network built on mentorship, philanthropy, and advancing women in the industry, which is exactly why being part of it carries real weight in Philadelphia’s culinary community.
Alyssa Termini, Program Director for C-CAP Philly & Board President for Volunteering Untapped PHL and Kerrri Sitrin, food publicist
I always enjoy being around these women who show up for one another in an industry that hasn’t always made space for them. What stands out most is their commitment to collaboration over competition, lifting each other while moving the entire field forward. Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia is more than a network, it’s a force for growth, mentorship, and real opportunity. If you’re a woman working in the food space, this is an organization that can expand your thinking, strengthen your business, and connect you to a community that truly invests in your success.
Back in January, my friends Rachel and John Paz invited me to something called HistoryTalks and I thought the History Channel, I love the History Channel. Of course I said yes.
HISTORYTalks isn’t a one-off, it’s a touring speaker series produced by History Channel that’s been popping up in major cities over the past few years. The format has stayed pretty consistent, but the tone and lineup shift depending on the moment.
The event was held in honor of America’s 250th anniversary a reminder that, despite our ups and downs, we’re always moving toward a more perfect union. That spirit carried throughout the day, along with a simple message: talk to your neighbors. We have far more in common than what divides us.
For some reason, I had it in my head that this one felt almost top secret, probably because of the level of people involved. So I made a point not to say anything publicly. As the date got closer, it became even more noticeable that no one was talking about it.
Later I learned that many people involved in the production had signed NDAs. I’m not sure what, if anything, guests were told as I was guests of guests, but it explained the silence. I only mentioned it to three people ahead of time, and one of them was my husband.
The event started with breakfast at 8:30am.
I told Mike I wanted to get there right when it started with breakfast, and he said it’d be great to beat the crowd, LOL
Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza on the red carpet after shot by Philly photographer Bas Slabbers
Last week I was asked if I wanted to shoot the Red Carpet, but I declined. I wanted to enjoy the program. It was the right move, as no one outside of the theater could hear the show. I did score a great celebrity shot during the 30 minute lunch break…more on that later.
Erik A Neumann, Mary Dougherty, Mike and Me
I made my way inside to Orchestra Row L, seat 13. Then the curtain lifted and President George W. Bush took the stage, interviewed by his daughter Jenna Bush Hager. Before it began, a message flashed across the screens: no photos, no video, no note-taking. Hmm.
Grace Killelea
Later, when I read coverage in the The Philadelphia Inquirer, it mentioned the conversation was off the record. As a guest, that wasn’t something I had been aware of at the time. Nothing particularly earth-shattering was said, which makes me think it may have been saved for a future interview or segment with Jenna.
Loree D. Jones – Brown, Philabundence and Mr Brown
President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden sat down with Jay Shetty. I’ll admit, I was hoping to hear a bit more of Shetty’s philosophy on life, but instead we got a really touching story about how the Bidens met. Joe actually proposed five times before Jill said yes. Her hesitation came from a very real place, she knew his sons had already lost their mother in a tragic car accident, and she wanted to be absolutely certain that she and Joe were the right match so the boys wouldn’t risk losing another mother, this time to divorce.
One of the highlights was Tom Brady and Jason Kelce interviewing each other. There was real mutual respect between them. Best moment, when Brady walked out, he joked that he’s not used to a Philadelphia crowd cheering for him and asked them to boo instead… and they did.
I later learned that conversation was also off the record, though I had already shared it by then. That night, the Pazs hosted a dinner with friends, and I had a chance to chat with one of the show’s producers, who told me it was fine to leave it up since it was already out there. Honestly, it made the whole thing even more interesting, hearing a bit about the behind-the-scenes and how they pulled off a production like this with most of the public having no idea it was even happening.
At lunchtime, I made my way over to the stage door and was lucky enough to spot Nicole Kidman heading inside. Later, she took the stage and spoke beautifully about women supporting one another in community, the profound influence her mother had on her life, and what she hopes to pass on to her daughters. She also shared that the loss of her mother inspired her interest in becoming a death doula, a deeply personal path that added another layer to her conversation. Hoda Kotb interviewed Nicole Kidman
Everyone was welcomed warmly, and each president received a standing ovation. But when Barack Obama and Michelle Obama came out separately, the crowd reaction hit another level the loudest of the day, and yes, a few people couldn’t resist sneaking photos of Michelle Obama, who was interviewed by 83 year old Doris Kearns Goodwin and spoke mostly about her time as First Lady, her role as a mother, and how intentionally she worked to shield her daughters from the pressures of White House life so they could have as normal an upbringing as possible. You could feel how proud she is of them.
I was one of them that couldn’t resist
President Barack Obama was interviewed by historian Jon Meacham.
When Barack Obama spoke about America moving toward “a more perfect union,” he wasn’t suggesting perfection, but progress. For someone like Obama, looks like a country that keeps expanding opportunity, where access to education, healthcare, and economic mobility isn’t uneven. It’s a democracy where participation is broader and more representative, institutions are trusted and functioning, and disagreement doesn’t erode respect for one another. It also points to a continued effort to reckon with the country’s history honestly, while still believing in its ability to improve. In his framing, it’s less about arriving at a final destination and more about the ongoing work of becoming better, together. (We later learned that Obama headed to NYC for an appearance with Mayor Zohran Mamdani after his 1pm interview)
When Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton took the stage with their longtime friend Ted Danson, the tone shifted into something more personal and reflective. It didn’t feel like a political talk, it felt like a conversation between people who have lived through decades of public life and still choose to stay engaged. They spoke about resilience, about continuing to show up through criticism and change, and about their belief in the country’s institutions, even when tested. There were also moments that felt more intimate, stories about their partnership and life after the White House – walks, going to the movies, Hillary trying to get Bill to take better care of himself, which gave the whole exchange a relaxed, human feel. At times they held hands, and always looked at each other with admiration.
Ted Danson, Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton.
It really fit the spirit of the day, less about politics, more about experience, endurance, and where we go from here.
OK I snuck a few photos….at the end of segments, I was in good company with folks nearby who also wanted to remember….
Kate McKinnon and Colin Jost history talks were hysterical (yes I was that close)
She’s done Hillary Clinton, Kellyanne Conway, Rudy Giuliani, Sean Spicer, Jeff Sessions, Angela Merkel, Elizabeth Warren, and lots more. Jost just had his first outing, as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. “I’m probably 200 behind you.”
And finally I am going to wrap this day up with the final speaker, although I did skip a few: Garth Brooks, when he took the stage, he shared a thought that really stayed with me, comparing music to a democracy. Not in a political way, but in the sense that it belongs to everyone. He talked about how the audience has just as much of a role as the performer, how songs take on new life depending on who’s listening, and how, in those moments, everyone in the room is part of the same experience. It was a simple idea, but powerful, especially in a room that had spent the day talking about connection, reminding us that sometimes the strongest common ground is something as universal as a song. He sang a few covers connecting each generation ending with a beautiful cover of Perfect by Ed Sheeran.
The list of speakers at Saturday’s HistoryTALKS
Thank you to the History Channel, to Comcast, and to my longtime friends John and Rachel Paz for such an incredible experience. I later learned that while portions were taped for television, the event itself was really designed as a series of in-person, live conversations with leaders and history makers. Only select moments from the six-hour program were recorded, so there’s hope that some of it may eventually see the light of day. I know that Jenna Bush did back stage interviews which will be broadcasted on the Today Show Monday.
WOW what an experience…. socially yours, xoxo HughE
St. Joe’s Prep Fashion Show Celebrates 70 Years in Style at The Union League
The 70th Annual St. Joe’s Prep Fashion Show, hosted by the Prep Mothers’ Club, returned in full force on Sunday, March 22, transforming the elegant rooms of the The Union League of Philadelphia into a runway filled with tradition, style, and community spirit.
More than 400 women from across the Philadelphia region gathered for an afternoon of fashion, friendship, and philanthropy. The event sold out in less than two days, a testament to its enduring popularity and deep roots within the Prep community.
Mary Jane Guy (Senior mothers wore sashes with their sons photo on it) and Allison Super
Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, lunch, and cocktails while taking in the latest looks from Skirt, bringing a modern edge to this long-standing tradition.
Teresa Hoffman, Mary Harris and Nicole Walter
Bridget Tracey and Christel Redick
Tara Davis and Jessica Masonova
Meanwhile, over 100 St. Joe’s Prep seniors took to the runway in classic tuxedos, representing Iacobucci Formal Wear, Rudi’s Formal Wear, and Tony Laguda Formal Wear.
The St Joe’s Prep Seniors
The seniors also played key roles behind the scenes, serving as ticket sellers and greeters, making the event a meaningful final appearance before graduation.
Beyond the fashion, the event serves as one of the Mothers’ Club’s primary fundraisers. Proceeds support a wide range of service initiatives throughout the year, benefiting both the school and the surrounding community. Importantly, funds also provide critical tuition assistance and emergency support for families facing unexpected challenges, ensuring students can continue their education without interruption.
Leading the charge was Fashion Show Committee Co-Chair Ashlee Hollis, who, along with her team at Helm Creative Studio, produced an afternoon that balanced sophistication with heartfelt purpose.
Belinda Jackson and Gina Carter
At its core, the St. Joe’s Prep Mothers’ Club remains committed to fostering connection among mothers through spiritual, cultural, and charitable efforts. After 70 years, the Fashion Show continues to be a shining example of that mission in action—bringing people together, celebrating students, and giving back in a meaningful way.
George Logan and his mom Garden Logan with Barbara Mainardi and son Bruno Mainardi
Last night at Lincoln Financial Field, First Tee Philadelphia brought together sports fans, civic leaders, and supporters for a meaningful evening celebrating two Philadelphia icons, Mike Quick and Merrill Reese at “Links at the Linc”. Both honorees are longtime partners on 94.1 WIP broadcasts and have worked together for nearly 30 years. Mike has been involved with First Tee for awhile, I remember shooting him at another event with them the first time about 12 years ago.
The setting was classic Philly. Cocktail hour energy inside the Linc, with guests mixing, reminiscing, and, in true First Tee fashion, even getting a chance to swing a club in a space better known for touchdowns than tee shots.
Normally not something you could do, but officials were testing out a new turf to be used for the upcoming Fifa games scheduled to start in June, so they had a field that was not for football.
First Tee Philadelphia goes far beyond the game itself. It uses golf as a way to build confidence, discipline, and resilience in young people.
Dave Sheilds, First Tee and Charles Pizzi, Board member of Independence Blue Cross
The program reaches tens of thousands of kids across the region, many gaining access to opportunities they might never have otherwise experienced.
Ashley Scudder, Tyler Scudder and Adriana Holt
Events like this work because they hit both notes. There is nostalgia and celebrity, yes. But there is also a clear reminder of why everyone is there.
Zoe Sky, Skylar Crutchfield and Tai Crutchfield
You could feel it in the room. Conversations were not just about the past, but about investing in the next generation.
And in a city that loves its sports heroes, honoring figures like Quick and Reese while lifting up young people felt exactly right.
Another fantastic event with a wonderful organization that makes a difference!!
Love Is Blind is a dating show built around a simple idea: can people fall in love without ever seeing each other? Singles talk and date in separate rooms where they can hear one another but not see each other, forming emotional connections first. If they feel strongly enough, they get engaged before ever meeting face to face. From there, they meet, and enter the real world, meet each other’s friends and families, and prepare for a wedding just weeks later, where they ultimately decide at the altar whether to say “I do” or walk away. The show is filming in Philadelphia, and most of the contestants live in the area, so it’s easy to do the meets and greets with familiar faces.
Love Is Blind contestants are generally paid a flat rate, often reported as roughly $1,000 per week or around $8,000 for the season, with some, like in season 6, earning up to $13,000 depending on milestones (pods, honeymoons, weddings).
With filming underway across some of Philly’s most recognizable spots, the city is officially center stage for a new round of relationships, dates, and inevitable drama. From what I’m hearing, there’s already a lot happening behind the scenes. While I won’t be revealing identities or outcomes, here’s where and when it’s been unfolding across the city.
BTW, I had never seen the show before and just started watching it on Sunday. I’m started with Season 6 . I wanted to watch a full season to understand how it all unfolds so I know what to share and when, after receiving weeks of tips.
Harper’s Garden
Love Is Blind has officially begun filming in Philadelphia as of March 2026, with production crews and contestants already spotted across the city.
Scenes have taken place at Ambrosia, Dear Daphni, Via Locusta, The Reading Terminal, Casa Ouiand Harp & Crown, while one “meet the parents” moment for a lucky couple unfolded at Harper’s Garden two Sundays ago.
Other Half Brewing March 26 a newly engaged couple meeting the friends. (I’ve cut off their heads)
Notably, these weren’t full buyouts. Filming happened alongside regular diners, with plenty of Philadelphians witnessing it in real time and some snapping photos. The image above with the goblet was taken at Harper’s Garden, though I’m hearing production assistants did persuade a few onlookers to delete footage from their phones.
The grooms were spotted at LR2 at Liberty One to pick up their tuxes last week. The bachelorettes were spotted at Concourse Wednesday night celebrating their upcoming nuptials.
The “W ” might as well stand for Wedding Weekend for Love Is Blind. If you follow me on Instagram, you know Saturday night I ran into a wedding guest at the Ritz Carlton late night, who I didn’t know, who filled me in on one of the weddings he had just attended, seems they only signed a waiver to say they’d give permission to be filmed; while I’m not revealing much, let’s just say there were definitely moments that will have viewers talking.
Here’s where it gets interesting: a friend of mine was invited to one of the weddings scheduled for this weekend, only to get an email just days before saying it was canceled. And this wasn’t an early exit situation, this couple had made it all the way to the altar. Somewhere along the line, someone got cold feet.
Even more curious, the email instructed guests to reach out to the person who invited them if they had questions. Does that mean the usual tight-lipped NDA rules are loosening a bit, or just passing the buck? Either way, something clearly shifted at the last minute and I have a feeling we’ll be hearing more about it.
Philly’s season is shaping up to be a memorable one. I’m hooked!! Look for the Philly season to debut sometime next year, I hear… if you hear anything…drop me a line HughE@phillychitchat.com – Thanks
I goofed, Love is Blind didn’t film at Joe’s Pizza Saturday 3/28 night after Midnight, it was an indie film called The Stranger.
Meet and Greet legendary singer Deborah Cox and Signed Bottle of Kazaisu at Roger Wilco on 5/6/26 INFO HERE
Legend and local resident Patti LaBelle hosted a fabulous birthday dinner Saturday night for her daughter-in-law Lona at Borromini Ristorante; Joined by Lona’s husband Zuri Edwards and a stylish group of friends, Lona told me everything was delicious, especially the branzino and the chocolate cake. I’ve had that olive oil chocolate cake myself, and it is so good.
Happy Birthday, Lona 💜
And Miss Patti is getting ready to celebrate her own birthday on May 24. She’ll be 82 years young ❤️ Fresh off a series of concerts in Ohio last week, she’s still going strong. Video used with permission ❤️❤️
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InLiquid’s annual March for Art BASH Brings the Crowds (and Collectors) to North American Street
Philadelphia’s creative corridor along North American Street was buzzing last month as InLiquidannual March for Art BASH, one of the city’s most beloved and accessible art events
Lynn Buono Les Dames Philadelphia / co-president and Rachel Zimmerman, Founder, Visionary, and Executive Director of InLiquid
Held at the Crane Arts Building and spilling out onto the surrounding blocks, the week long festival once again delivered on its promise: with most original artwork priced at $250 or less, making collecting feel less intimidating and a lot more fun.
Tuesday Gordon, Robin Cook and Ellen Shepp, co owner of Joan Shepp at Rittenhouse Square
More than 100 artists, designers, and makers set up shop, offering everything from paintings and photography to ceramics, jewelry, prints, and wearable art. The vibe was equal parts block party and open-air gallery, drawing a steady stream of seasoned collectors, curious first-timers, and neighborhood regulars to the gallery on American Street.
Debut’s his new exhibition, behind the Philadelphia Museum of Art, called: Radical Americana project, “Charm Offensive @ Reilly Memorial”, it will be up for two days only! April 18 & 19, a temporary public art intervention at the Reilly Memorial in Fairmount Park, reworking the six bronze Revolutionary War figures through large-scale jewelry, drawing on the language of military decoration — medals, ribbons, insignia — and shifting how the monument reads.
What makes this event stand out and keeps people coming back every year is its mission-driven edge. Every dollar from art sales goes directly to the artists, reinforcing InLiquid’s long-standing role as a connector between creators and the public
The event continues to anchor the growing North American Street arts corridor, linking studios, galleries, and creative businesses into one walkable cultural experience. Over the years, it has evolved into a signature spring time tradition that not only supports artists but helps cultivate the next generation of collectors.
Next up at InLiquid: Brownin’, a powerful new group exhibition opening April 9 at the InLiquid Gallery.
Curated in collaboration with Zindzi Harley, the show brings together five Philadelphia-based artists whose work centers on the Black figure, offering a layered and intentional exploration of identity, representation, and beauty.
Running April 9 through May 23, the exhibition kicks off with an opening reception on April 9 from 6 to 9 pm, followed by a second reception on May 14.
Daniel McLaughlin, Mission Taqueria and Tiger Jaser, Board President of Philadelphia Sketch Club Visual
At its core, Brownin’ challenges narrow definitions of beauty and replaces them with something more expansive and authentic. As Harley puts it, “This exhibition explores and exalts the musings of melanated communities and explodes the myth of a singular Black beauty.”
The featured artists • Caff Adeus • Marcus Branch • Mikel Elam • Akria Gordon • Yannick Lowery
Expect a mix of portraiture and figurative work that feels both personal and culturally resonant, continuing InLiquid’s mission of elevating Philadelphia artists while making contemporary art accessible to a wider audience.
Norwegian Cruise Line Details Temporary Plan for Philadelphia Departures, with the first cruise just days away.
I was genuinely excited when Norwegian Cruise Line announced it would begin sailing out of Philadelphia.
As a seasoned cruiser, I’ve gotten used to driving to the New York area or flying south just to get on a ship. It’s always been part of the process.
Philadelphia officially entered the cruise conversation in a big way in 2024, when Norwegian Cruise Line announced the city would become a homeport for the first time in its history.
The news positioned Philly as a new player in the Northeast cruise market, with sailings planned out of PhilaPort and a brand new terminal in development along the Delaware River.
City leaders and tourism officials framed the move as a major win ahead of the America 250 celebration, with expectations that cruise passengers would bring new energy and spending into local hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
At the time, the plan was simple. By 2026, Philadelphia would welcome its first passengers at a fully operational cruise terminal, marking a new chapter for the city’s waterfront.
Now, as that first sailing approaches, the vision is still intact. It is just arriving with a few delays along the way, because NCL reports the cruise port is not built yet, delayed because of weather woes. When I first read that on my FB Page about Philadelphia cruises I was worried my August Cruise would not happen…but NCL sent an email to those who have booked, and it was posted on the FB page, that
Norwegian Cruise Line will use a nearby hotel as a temporary check-in hub for its new Philadelphia sailings.
Passengers will be transported by shuttle to and from the Clarion Hotel near the airport for both embarkation and disembarkation, as construction delays at PhilaPort have postponed the opening of the city’s new cruise terminal.
The new process begins with Norwegian Jewel’s first Philadelphia departure on April 16.
