Philadelphia County

Latest in Philadelphia County

LIGHTS, CAMERA, PHILLY!

by TheSpot November 2, 2023

written by TheSpot

South Philly has been location to many iconic films and in some cases background settings for film and television. Hollywood movie stars walked along the small streets, dined at local restaurants, and occasionally popped up at a sports game or two. Local residents know that South Philly provides a rich tapestry of real life characters, family histories, and workplace comedy. Often times, the locals may remark that someone should make a tv show. Well creators, Steven Sacavitch and Terry McFadden have done just that.

Joey’s Place is a half hour dramedy that scoops in all of those loveable traits in a mixing bowl. It is a story of an eclectic group of employees, family members, and sinister forces. Throw in the added ingredient that Joey is a crime boss who conducts his business in his local eatery, well we have to say… it’s a recipe for disaster. Steven Sacavitch and Terry McFadden are award winning filmmakers and actors that bring to life these characters in a real and authentic way. The concept of Joey’s Place is to bring forth all of the complex ties of human relationships together with comedy and emotion. The idea is to explore past traumas that affect our daily adult lives. The additional cast members: Frank Volpe, Kristen Minter, Maro Delo, and Hudson Chance play central characters in the story that bring their chemistry to the chaos. Each are professional actors with various film and television performances under their belts.

The production team currently is focusing on making the pilot episode a reality through Indie GoGo. The campaign is looking for backing and support to create the best possible visually and technically appealing pilot with the hopes of being picked up. Philadelphia is a special place for story telling. We bring warmth and neighborly affection in our every day lives. We are enriched culturally and personally when we continue to bring our stories alive in our way. For information on how you can support the production of Joey’s Place, click on the link below. Let’s keep the camera rolling!

November 2, 2023

Eat For Family

AFTER HOURS AT DiBRUNO BROS. Eat, Drink, and Make Memories

by TheSpot August 30, 2023

written by TheSpot

Stepping in the original location of Di Bruno Bros. is like walking into a black and white photo of Old World Philadelphia. It is a nod to an early twentieth century scene of butchers, fishermen, and cheese mongers weaving through 9th Street with wheelbarrows of their latest catches or kills. After 80 years of business, the DiBruno Bros. brand has evolved from a specialty store to a Philadelphia culinary enterprise. The brand is now in major supermarket chains, several store locations, plus events and catering. We recently met with Tommy Amorim, Assistant Store Team Leader and After Hours Director, to learn more about its history and in some ways a true Philadelphia story.

After Hours is an in store customer experience like no other. First however, we learn Tommy’s role starting with the original store. Tommy’s grandfather, Giuseppe Abruzzo, worked for Di Bruno Bros. for 62 years alongside owners Danny and Joe. DiBruno Bros. was more or less a cheese store along other specialty stores on 9th Street. After Tommy’s grandfather’s passing in 2008, Tommy decided that he wished to step into the work of his grandfather. We asked the question if cheese mongering is a lost art form. Tommy acknowledges that there are less and less cheese professionals due to pre-packaged cheeses however abides by traditional cheese making methods. Today, Tommy is part of the 2nd generation of the Di Bruno Bros. family.

So what exactly is After Hours? DiBruno Bros.has various locations in the Philly region. After Hours offers a group of 10 or more people a two hour shopping experience of curated cheeses, charcuterie plates, and wine pairings. Cheesemongers use their creativity and inspiration to come up with 6 to 7 plates. Tommy trusts his team to apply their passions and imagination in creating these special platters and pairings.

We asked Tommy what he hopes are the takeaways after this experience. He hopes that those who participate not only leave enriched nutritionally, but also mentally and spiritually. If a client has any dietary restrictions, their mongers curate boards to fit customers’ needs.

For Tommy, this is not just a trendy new foodie job but a purpose of sharing and experiencing the best cheeses of the world and passing it on to customers. It is easy to see Tommy is passionate about taking these time honored traditions and revitalizing them. The result is a fully immersive experience of tradition, history, and the palate.

How did After Hours come about? Surprisingly the idea stemmed from a little humor stemming from customer comments wishing they could stay locked up in the store after closing. The illuminating brain child of Tommy of pairing cheese with wine gave life to the After Hours Program. In addition to these specialized pairings, the feature includes a 20% discount off all items, plus a store gift either in the form of a tote bag or something comparable. During the shopping experience, Tommy encourages guests to indicate to a store professional whatever meets the eye. They will then cut the items for you or make them available for purchase.

It is no secret that Philadelphia has one of the best culinary scenes in the country. As we become sophisticated in taste, experience, and skills, curiosity does not slow down. We want to know more about where our food is sourced, we want to discern taste, age, notes and so forth. Di Bruno Bros. found a way to meet that curiosity.

So who can participate in After Hours? Pretty much anyone for any type of celebration. Whether it is a special occasion or simply a celebration of food and drink, mongers treat each instinct with care. As for returning guests, their mongers make sure they don’t repeat the same presentation. What is the process of curating a group? According to Tommy, the professionals base their presentation on current selections of cheese and pairings that invigorate the staff and spark their creative outlets. If you’re curious about entering this line of work, well Tommy is all too happy to set you on the right path on how to get started.

So if you’re looking for a memorable occasion, After Hours DiBruno Bros. is an encompassing culinary adventure that takes you on a trip of the best international goodies. The enthusiasm, history, and inspiration make it a true Philadelphia story.

Look for Part 2 of our feature in the coming weeks of our Di Bruno Bros. Wayne location adventure as they continue to provide a one of a kind experience!

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA – Winter traffic in the streets of Italian Market, an area of South Philadelphia featuring delis, grocery shops, cafes, restaurants, bakeries, cheese shops, butcher shops, many with an Italian influence.

August 30, 2023

For Family For Her

Is West Chester, PA the Best Small Town in America?

by TheSpot July 3, 2023

written by TheSpot

Is West Chester, PA the best small town in America? There are several charming towns in the surrounding Philadelphia region however there is one that offers a combination of charm, history, and a quaint small town vibe. West Chester is situated in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Home to West Chester University and the American Helicopter Museum, West Chester offers plenty of boutiques and bars. Downtown West Chester is so recognizable among city chic and town locals that it came as no surprise when West Chester was voted as one of the winners of the Great American Main Street Awards hosted by the National Main Street Center in 2017.

We recently visited Gay Street Open Air Market in downtown West Chester. During the weekends, Gay Street is closed to traffic to give locals and visitors the chance to stroll the walkway. Bars, restaurants, and boutiques are burgeoning with diners, passer byes, and shoppers beginning on Friday mornings to Monday mornings.

Iron Hill Brewery West Chester was the first large restaurant on the corner of Gay and Market Street that we came upon. We chose it as our lunchtime afternoon pub with none other than fish and chips and a refreshing Iron Hill beer. Live music drifted down as patrons dined or sat in park benches to drink in the light and music.

We spent the afternoon window shopping down the four blocks. Down town is home to over 65 boutiques and each is more unique than before. The diversity of shopping on Gay Street included everything from vintage clothes, record stores, chic wear, and collectibles. It’s easy to spend a weekend day wandering, having a languid lunch, or simply drink in the sunshine. There is more than meets the eye however.

The American Helicopter Museum and Education Center has been home to vintage and modern aircraft and hydro gliders since 1996. The museum is truly unique in that it highlights the contribution of this particular aircraft as well as provides education for STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) programs. If you are an aviation enthusiast or simply curious, do not miss the wonders of the museum and history it holds.

Another unique feature found in West Chester is the Stroud Preserve. A 571 acre patchwork of lands, the Preserve offers a one of a kind combination of education, recreation, and scientific research. Habitats, watersheds, and wildlife can all be observed and enjoyed.

There is little doubt that West Chester, PA really is one of the best small towns in America. Make it a destination to uncover lesser known resources and you’ll be making return plans in no time.

July 3, 2023

Eat For Family For Her

La Llorona Cantina Mexicana

by TheSpot May 5, 2023

written by TheSpot

It seems Cinco de Mayo celebrations are held anywhere with food and beverage and a Latin flair. For a little history lesson, Cinco de Mayo is the day that Mexico defeated France in the Franco-Mexican War back in 1862. We know it as May 5th, the day we partake in our favorite Mexican fanfare. The Mexican food scene in Philadelphia exploded in recent years. Taquerias, restaurants, and cafes offering Mexican cuisine, Tex-Mex and other varieties are sprouting in neighborhoods and corners that were left void. In some cases, many of these eateries contribute to revitalization. Increasingly as there are more spaces introducing menu items beyond nachos and burritos, Philadelphians have a new love affair with Mexican food.

There is one restaurant that is not only known for authenticity but receiving rave reviews. La Llorona Cantina Mexicana, strives to meet authentic Mexican in a warm setting in the heart of South Philadelphia. Adrienne Salvatore-Markey, owner of the previous establishment the Thirsty Soul, transformed the location on from trendy bar to one of Philly’s most talked about must try restaurants. Located on Passyunk Avenue, they’re one of the few places to have ample indoor and outdoor seating but their menu selection is what sets them apart. In addition, you’ll find imported Tequilas and Mezcal that you won’t find outside of Mexico.

Plates such as Tlayuda and entrees such as Calabacitas and Pollo En Sul Mole, will. not only heighten the palate but will make you question what you have been missing all this time. They also offer an enviable drink menu specializing in premiere tequila and mezcal plus inventive cocktails. The passion fruit margarita and inolvidable are sure to hit the sweet spot. The care and attention to detail of the ingredients. the slow cooked pork and beef, the splash of citrus that shapes the dish is why La Llorona Cantina Mexicana is our pick this month. Don’t just make plans for Cinco de Mayo but anytime is a reason to celebrate.

May 5, 2023

Eat For Family Health Uncategorized

The Power of Food: How Cooking Can Bring A Community Together for a Good Cause

by TheSpot March 23, 2023

written by TheSpot

It’s no secret that Philadelphia is known as a superlative city for dining. North to South, Fishtown, and reaching far into the counties, our restaurant scene rivals New York and other nouveau foodie towns. Our diversity from Armenian, Cuban, to French and Italian, is a rainbow of gustatory feasts. We spoke to local Chef Maria Campbell, Founder of Cooks Who Care, on how she is using the power of food and dining to bring mental health awareness to our region.

As the Philadelphia dining scene was growing and evolving in recent years, Scott and Maria Campbell, a husband and wife team, founded the organization six years ago as a vehicle to better serve the restaurant community. Both chefs by trade, they began their not-for-profit organization initially as a resource to help industry professionals achieve basic health needs.

Through qualitative research, in addition to creating a YouTube channel of over 100 conversations, the couple found a pattern that the very people taking great care to prepare our optimal dining experiences, were neglecting their own health and well-being. Their research indicated that health, particularly mental health, was at the center of burnout and other challenges. We spoke to Maria at length about how mental health awareness evolved over the years and more specifically after the era of Covid-19.

It must be aforementioned that Maria is a strong advocate in brining mental health awareness front and center of conversation. Maria is full of insights and puts the work in everyday to bring forth this awareness. According to Maria, as with mental health awareness in general terms, industry professionals lacked the proper language to describe their internal battles. That is to say, chefs, servers, bartenders, etc. were reluctant most of the time to admit any suffering and internalized any mental challenge they were experiencing. Maria and her husband Scott looked for a way to change that.

Maria Campbell Founder of Cooks Who Care

Maria cites a couple of events that prompted more openness about mental health and suffering. One was the death of celebrity chef, Anthony Bourdain. It was then she began receiving messages thanking her for her work. The second event was when Covid-19 came about. Essentially the restaurant community ceased worldwide. During this time, industry personnel began to feel empowered to express feelings of anxiety and depression. As Maria described, there was now language to better define mental health awareness but more importantly to say that it was okay not to be okay.

Perhaps for the first time, these challenges although difficult were being heard and addressed as well give those suffering a safe space. Maria believes a lot of good came about pertaining to working conditions and health and well-being on the job. As Maria says, “Covid allowed permission to have a life.” She believes that today the working model has changed the industry at large. Examples including better working hours and increased health benefits.

Maria and Scott are working to set up mini grants to fund mental healthcare. The Campbells also put out Cooks Who Care Cook Book of 500 limited editions printed which 100% of the proceeds are towards the fund. Maria also set up a series of special events entitled “Break the Ice Nights.” Participating restaurants are allocating a portion of the proceeds towards the grants that Maria and Scott are hoping to procure.

The Spot recently spent a “Break the Ice Night” at Oloroso, a Townsend Wentz owned restaurant, in the heart of Center City Philadelphia. Specializing in Spanish tapas such as croquetas and grilled octopus, it was an excellent way of being introduced to a restaurant while supporting a good cause. Maria stated how thrilled she is by how the restaurants are rallying together to participate in these events and the amazing support they have received.

As we talked, savored our plates, sipped on hearty red wines from Portugal, and even struck up a conversation with a stranger, it was an experience that served as a reminder that community and conversation is alive and well in the City of Brotherly Love.

For more information on how to support this good cause, visit cookswhocare.org. The Campbells are also holding a fundraiser raffle tto reach their financial goal of $15k. The drawing is on March 30^th so there is time to donate at https://bit.ly/Raffle_CooksWhoCare. Lastly, for a free sample of Cooks Who Care Cook Book, sign up for our newsletter today! Hurry as it is available in limited supply.

We will continue to follow Maria and Scott Campbell and more events are in the works. The Philly dining scene is lively and thriving and if there is one thing we do best, it is to raise our glasses to support our communities.

March 23, 2023

For Family For Her Uncategorized

The Philadelphia Flower Show: Why It’s a Must See Spring Event

by TheSpot March 8, 2023

written by TheSpot

After two years of breaking from tradition, the Philadelphia Flower Show, was held outside at Franklin Delano Roosevelt or FDR Park in South Philadelphia. Like many organizations, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society had to come up with a plan to co-exist in a pandemic world. Hence, two years in a row, the Flower Show transformed FDR Park into a fairytale spring oasis.

The excitement for 2023 is that it is back indoors at the Philadelphia Convention Center. Judging by the attendance of the first day, this event is the biggest and brightest of the year. The theme no less is The Garden Electric. What does that mean? The PHS explains that it is centered on “the spark of joy and excitement while giving and receiving flowers.” At the entrance, that moment comes when stepping inside a floral eden of bliss. The week long event is heralded by every outlet to bring you all the beauty and trends of spring forthcoming. Be prepared for a day or more of experiencing the final winter days as we look ahead to re-birth and renewal. Here are a few of our favorite displays.

Florastruck

The hanging vines intertwined with lights at the entrance gives the visitor a bolt of excitement of what’s to come. The picturesque ceiling of twinkling lights gives the feeling of just stepping out of an urban world and stepping into a garden utopia.

ILLExotics

Studio Exotica is a Studio 54 inspired garden dance floor. Fauna and flowers meet spinning disco balls and lights. A marriage of bouquets and Andy Warhol will kick up your heels like a Donna Summer video. We’ll even bet that you won’t just walk through this space but dance through it.

STUDIO EXOTICA PHILADELPHIA FLOWER SHOW 2023

Eye Candy

Hungry? Eye candy is a clever take on all your favorite sweets. Donuts, Cake, and Cup Cakes in flower arrangements are the stars of this display. These displays behind a window give an added artistic impression of peeking into a bakery window of an old Philadelphia neighborhood. Pink and pastels paint the walk way.

Florid Electron

Harijanto Setiawan, a Singapore based event designer and florist, also worked with Chanel, Dior, and Hermes. Get your smartphone out, strike that pose, and get in line for you Instaphoto opportunity in front of the electric spiral. His exhibit on the lesser known beauty of flowers in night gardens creates an enchanting aura.

Don’t miss out on a range of activities new and returning. Here are a few of note: Butterfly Live! An exotic butterfly room dedicated to observing butterflies in a serene environment for all age groups. Artisan Row will be hosting crafting events from floral crowns, candles, bouquets, and more. Design and Dine is a flower arranging activity enjoyed with a light meal. Kids Cocoon is a play area where kids can spend time in activities related to discovery, education, and exploration. Other events include early morning and photography tours. Information can be found on the PHS website.

Whether you are a first timer or returning visitor, The Reading Terminal Market, is right next door and a perfect opportunity to experience food traditions of old Philadelphia and modern establishments. It recently celebrated it’s 130th birthday so what better way to celebrate! Don’t forget shopping with nearby Macy’s, Nordstrom Rack, Apple Store, plus much more all within walking distance.

Why is this a must see event? It is where the natural world meets the art world. Artists, designers, and florists travel from all around the world to contribute their art and ideas. For this week, we can observe and experience these gifts to enrich our lives and surroundings. Happy Spring!

March 8, 2023

For Family For Her Health Uncategorized

WINTER FUN GETAWAYS WORTH YOUR WHILE

by TheSpot February 20, 2023

written by TheSpot

The first couple of months of the new year are usually devoted to shoring up summer rentals and hotel bookings. The height of winter season can be found in the Pocono Mountains, Central Jersey, and Lehigh Valley. Nearby mountain resorts are ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and snow-tubing. Most offer premiere spa amenities adding to the full winter luxury experience. There is an abundance of mountain ski resorts which have their distinct features. The Spot narrowed down three that are ideal for families, friends, or couples. Many of the PA mountains entail less than two hours by car outside of Metropolitan Philadelphia which of course make them convenient and affordable.

BEAR CREEK MOUNTAIN RESORT

Located in beautiful Lehigh Valley and just a little more than an hour drive outside of Philadelphia, this resort is your best bet for day adventures. The resorts offers excellent terrain parks ranging from family friendly to expert. Adult Day Lift Tickets run about $60 and hosts a range of amenities from facials to fire pits. The inside lodge is impressive with a warm ambient. For a good meal, The Grille has the best variety from gourmet burger to hearty salads.

CAMELBACK RESORT

Camelback Resort in the Pocono Mountains is a vacation destination close to home. This double feature resort offers all your winter fun activities plus an indoor water park, Aquatopia. They do have an outdoor water park that is utilized in the summer months however the indoor park is included with your winter overnight stay at the resort. The resort boasts 39 trails and 166 acres for skiing. We enjoyed Berelli’s Italian Chophouse. Their menu offered a variety of chops and pasta dishes. The lodging is on the pricier side which can run $300 plus but the many offerings beneficial to families, balance out. Our suggestion is a weekend stay is best to fully experience Camelback.

JACK FROST BIG BOULDER

The claim to fame of Jack Frost Big Boulder is the opportunity to experiment on two mountains. There are several choices of hotel stays from Split Rock Resort to the Comfort Inn depending on your budget. There are more dining choices from café to barbeque to biergarten. The high point is the ability to sample two mountains from beginner to expert. They have 20 trails and 2 terrain parks. Another perk is winter dog sledding.

Hight season for many of the area mountain resorts is during the winter months, notably January to March. If committing to stay overnight, most do require a two-night minimum on weekends. Long holiday weekends should be booked as early as possible as they are the peak weekends of the entire year. However you will find Monday through Thursday hotel stays, there is much greater flexibility. These area mountain resorts are popular not only in the tri-state area but also residents traveling from Maryland, New York, and Massachusetts. Whether you can come back year after year or a first timer, you’ll find a little of everything.

February 20, 2023

For Family For Her Uncategorized

5 Small Ways to Embrace Winter

by TheSpot February 5, 2023

written by TheSpot

Many of us tend to rush through the winter season and fast forward to Memorial Day Weekend a.k.a the unofficial opening of summer. We may love the Jersey shore and Delaware beaches but winter can be time to hit the reset button. If we do it right, we can actually feel rejuvenated, slow down life just a little, and embrace the coziness of the
season. Of course there is that crew that can’t wait for frigid temperatures and already nestled in their happy places. Who are these people? For those of us that need a little help or a reminder, The Spot came up with some inspirational ways to embrace winter and (gasp) actually enjoy it.

Sip on Hot Chocolate with your Bestie

Spend a day with your bestie, catch up, and sip on the area’s best hot chocolate. If you’re not a hot chocolate fan, the area’s best coffee shops offer an array of warm winter beverages to your taste. It’s a perfect time and place to get together with your best friends for laughter and a good old fashioned pick me up. Rim’s Cafe in South Philadelphia and Ground Coffee Bar in Collingswood, NJ are top rated places to check out by customers and also known for some of the region’s best hot beverages.

Visit a Natural History Museum

Winter is a great time to explore nature. We love to see a fresh blanket of snow and see some of our friendly creatures right in our backyard. An indoor natural history museum explores the natural world as well provides educational benefits for children and adults alike. The Delaware Museum of Nature and Science in Wilmington, DE offers the Regional Journey about local and global ecosystems as well as the Paleo Zone for dinosaur lovers. A win win!

One Day Skiing and Sledding

The Poconos and several mountain ski resorts and just about an hour or so outside of Philly! Places like Spring Mountain, PA, Bear Creek Mountain, and Camelback are great places to just go for the day to spend with families or friends. Of course, an overnight stay is most welcome to fully enjoy a resort’s amenities. Don’t worry if the temperatures don’t dip low enough, the resorts have enough snow to make it a full winter experience.

Winter Festivals

Many local towns in the Greater Philadelphia Region host Winter Festivals or “Winterfests”. The local areas make the best shopping, brews, and bites. Winterfests are fantastic opportunities to discover new boutiques or eateries that you may not have previously known. Marvel at an ice sculpture art or two (How do they do it?). If you don’t consider yourself balance challenged, get on the rink for some ice skating fun. We recently visited Haddonfield, NJ and some upcoming Winterfests take place this month in Philadelphia and Kennett Square, PA

Maple Sugaring

Were you ever curious about making your own maple syrup? If you didn’t know you could, well we are here to share! Maple Sugaring events at places like The Howell Living History Farm in Lambertville, NJ will take you on an excursion of tapping maple trees for sap. There are several Saturday sessions this month. After all that hard work, a tasting is available in their farmhouse kitchen. Echo Hill in Flemington, NJ also hosts maple sugaring as well. You do have to sign up as space is limited. Now that sounds like a sweet deal!

February 5, 2023

For Her Uncategorized

WHY PHILLY LOVES DAVID BOWIE

by TheSpot January 12, 2023

written by TheSpot

Philadelphia locals have had a long standing love for anyone in the public eye who appreciates who and what we are. Do you know of any other city that turns out a retirement tailgate for a local news anchorman? Before our revered athletes, before our favorite newscasters, a pop culture icon visited and recorded in the City of Brotherly Love.

David Bowie: a musician, icon, father, and star. There is little doubt he is up there with the rock and pop world’s influential greats. Inspiring Madonna, The Cure, Lady Gaga, David Bowie’s distinct sound and look were works of art in itself. He was an artists’ artist.

Philly Loves Bowie Week
Discover why this icon lives on in the City of Brotherly Love — DAVID BOWIE PHILADELPHIA

Even by today’s standards, it’s a bit surreal to imagine that an iconic star such as David Bowie not only spent time here in Philadelphia, but also recorded one of his most recognized and iconic albums, Young Americans. It was in the sacred halls of Sigma Sound Studios that It is said he forged lifelong friendships. Bowie Week in Philly did originate all those years ago in 1974. However, the week-long celebrations really took form after Bowie’s death in 2016.

Now in its seventh year, Philly Loves Bowie, celebrates his life in various happenings. Kickoff parties, art exhibits at the National Liberty Museum, and even ice cream from Weckerly’s Ice Cream in West Philly and Fishtown all contribute to continuing the life and legacy of David Bowie. A recent proclamation by the City of Philadelphia ensures that we continue this tradition for years to come. This week, let’s play our favorite Bowie songs, sing out loud, visit a show or go to brunch. Let’s tune in to the art and Philly sound that inspired David Bowie himself.

January 12, 2023

For Family For Her Uncategorized

Talk of the Town- Why Radio Host Nicole Michalik Loves Philly

by TheSpot December 23, 2022

written by TheSpot

NICOLE MICHALIK, PHILLY'S TOP RADIO HOST

If you happen to hear Nicole over the airwaves on her afternoon show on country station, 92.5 XTU, you know about her love of all things Philly. She jumps for joy at our sports teams during a win and expresses disappointment over a loss right along with us. At times, she will grill major stars about who they root for or why they like Philly. So why does Nicole love Philly so much? We spent some time with her during the holidays to find out!

Nicole hails from Summit Hill, a small town in Northeastern, PA. It’s the kind of small town where communities gather along the sidewalk waving flags during parades and cheer on their local leaders. As a matter of fact, Nicole got to ride with the Grand Marshall in her town’s annual Memorial Day parade. It was the pride of her family and the locals. In many ways, her story is the kind of story that can easily be a story line in a Hallmark movie. By the way, Nicole is a self proclaimed Hallmark movie maven and occasionally dabbles in writing scripts.

Although proud of her town, she was always drawn to the city. Nicole attended Drexel University and fell in love with Philly. Nicole, in her own words, loves to talk. It’s not hard to imagine that she was meant to be a radio personality. After working her way up after college, Nicole became a full time radio host on Philly’s legendary Q102 as Nik the Web Chick. She also landed a morning show co-host spot on the now retired Mix106 along with Logan then Chio. It was there that Nicole cultivated her sense of pop culture and having her finger firmly on the pulse of social media trends. An active social media user, Nicole always finds ways to connect with her audience and keeps her ear to the ground on issues and discourse that permeate in our society.

Today, as host of her own show on 92.5 XTU, she interviews top country artists worldwide, often travels to Nashville for various events, and creates content on her many active social media accounts. In addition, she is energetically involved with The Parkinson Council and is on the committee for their annual walk. She became an advocate due to her own father’s challenges with Parkinson’s.

So what is it about Philly that Nicole can’t enough of? Simply put Nicole appreciates the cultural diversity, the history, the dining, and the many offerings of the Greater Philadelphia region. She is particularly inspired by Dilworth Park and Rittenhouse Square. She thrives on the scenic backgrounds of colonial institutions and park fountains. Nicole happens to prefer the cold weather and it’s easy to see she is in her happy place to be around town during the holidays. It doesn’t go unnoticed that it appears to coincide with her love of Christmas movies. So if you’re listening to her on the radio or follow her on her socials, there is little doubt that Nicole is the Philly region’s biggest cheerleader. You can listen to Nicole daily on 92.5 XTU or follow her on the socials at NicoleisNik.