Aversa PR & Events

Aversa PR Debuts New Website

Please visit our brand new website at www.aversapr.com - and please update your browser and saved files to make sure you are pointed in the right direction. We don't want you to miss a thing..

Client News: East Passyunk Revs Up for 8th Annual Car Show

East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District (EPABID) is revving up for the 8th Annual Car Show and Street Festival on Sunday, July 28, 2013, from Noon to 5:00pm, on EPA between Broad and Dickinson streets.  More than 140 cars, motorcycles and trucks are expected to compete for Best of Show and other top honors.  The accompanying street festival will feature live music, circus performances, street vendors, rack sales, kids’ activities and the Bang! Boom! CRAFT! Show.  Wine and dine among the cars as award-winning restaurants serve street food and summertime drinks at festival prices.  Admission is FREE for attendees and $15 for cars.  The rain date is Sunday, August 4, 2013. For information, visit www.visiteastpassyunk.com.

“East Passyunk’s Car Show and Street Festival is one of South Philly’s largest outdoor festivals,” said EPABID Director Renee Gilinger.  “Families from around the tri-state area, and beyond, flock to EPA to cruise the cars, root for their favorites, sample South Philly fare and enjoy live music on every block.”

More than 140 muscle, classic, antique, custom and show cars, trucks and motorcycles will line the five blocks between Broad and Dickinson streets. The fee for participating cars is $15 per vehicle.  Registration will take place at Broad and EPA between 8:00am and 1:00pm. Space is available on a first come, first served basis. Trophies will be awarded in dozens of categories, including: Top 50, Best Stock, Best Modified, Best Engine, Best Paint, Best 50’s Custom, Best Street Rod, Best Low Rider, Best Truck, Best Motorcycle, and Best of Show Car and Motorcycle.   One winner will also be honored with the title of “People’s Choice” voted on during the show and on social media.

Live music will keep things moving and grooving with a different band on each block.  All music is outdoors unless otherwise noted. The line-up is as follows:

• 12:00pm to 1:00pm, Andrew Jackson Rock Band (between Tasker and Morris) 
• 12:00pm to 3:00pm, Ray Baccare playing Sinatra, Dean Martin and more (Stogie Joe’s, indoors)
• 12:30pm to 1:30pm, Joe King Trio (EPA and 13th)
• 1:00pm to 2:00pm, The Drive-Ins (EPA and 12th)
• 1:00pm to 5:00pm, DJ Lindsay Maria (Singing Fountain)
• 1:30pm to 2:30pm, We Are Fauna (between Mifflin and Broad)
• 2:00pm to 3:00pm, Alex Metzger Steely Pans Drum Band (between Tasker and Morris)
• 3:00pm to 4:00pm , Will Williams (between Mifflin and Broad)
• 3:00pm to 8:00pm , Joy Ride (Stogie Joe’s, EPA and Moore)
• 3:30pm to 4:30pm, Steve Cal Blues Band (between Tasker and Morris)
• 4:30pm, Car Show Trophies Award (between Tasker and Morris) 
• 8:00pm to 11:00pm, DJ Steve Nolfi (Stogie Joe’s, indoors)

East Passyunk’s award-winning restaurants will serve special street food and summertime beverages.  Nearly all food and drink served outside will be specially priced at $5.00 or less.  Specials below will be served outside on the street, unless noted below.  Drink and food menu to date includes:

• Belle Cakery – Dessert pop-up inside old Fond space (inside)
• Birra – Slices for the day (inside)
• The Bottle Shop – Craft beer bar
• Cantina – Regular menu in the outdoor yard with brunch and margarita specials
• El Zarape – Tacos al pastor on the outdoor spit and other Mexican favorites
• Le Virtu – Abruzzese fare in the garden
• Lucky 13 – Craft beer bar
• Mamma Maria – Italian specialties 
• Marra's – Pizza, Italian sandwiches, soft drinks, beer
• Ms Goody Cupcake truck – Special festival flavors (Classic Car, Doo Wop, Margarita, others)
• Noir – Montreal-style hot dogs, poutine, arancini, craft beer, Bai cocktails and complimentary Bai
• Plenty - $5 sandwiches (inside)
• Sophia’s – Outdoor craft beer
• Stogie Joe's – Outdoor craft beer bar and pulled pork sandwiches

Other festivities for everyone in the family will include:

• Bang! Boom! CRAFT! Show at the Fountain  – Handmade items from 40 crafters and artists, including Gearforms, Hog Island Press, Krista Peel Jewelry and Rachel Ink
• Charm City Movement Arts – Circus performances and tightrope demos between 2:00pm and 4:00pm
• Kid Zone  – Free moon bounce, art classes with Young Rembrandts, face painting, entertainment, more
• Mobile food – Little Baby’s Ice Cream,  Tot Truck, Weckerlys Ice Cream
• Pretzel Crisps – Free snack break station with free samples while supplies last
• Rack sales – 1600 Below Vintage, ADDICTION Boutique, Hip & Thrifty, Metro Mens, others
• Street vendors – Car memorabilia and accessories, jewelry, sunglasses, Italian-themed shirts and hats
• Other – Debut of East Passyunk branded tote bags, raffle from YELP and much more!

The 8th Annual Car Show and Street Festival, formerly known as the Doo Wop, is hosted by the Northeast Muscle Car Club and presented by East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District.  Sponsors include Yelp, Passyunk Avenue Revitalization Corporation, South Philly Review and WOGL.

ABOUT EAST PASSYUNK AVENUE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District is home to 150 independently owned shops and markets that perfectly balances the best of the old and the new, mixing old world shopping, authentic Italian restaurants, world famous cheese steaks, with trendy boutiques, handmade arts, world-class cuisine and record-breaking events. For more information and directions, go to www.visiteastpassyunk.com, like East Passyunk Avenue on Facebook or Tweet @epassyunkave.

Job Postings: Philadelphia Social Media Assistant, Social Media and PR Intern, Blog Intern

Aversa PR and Philly Loves Fun are pleased to present three job and internship opportunities. Please see each listing for specific job descriptions, instructions on how to apply and other details.

Social Media Assistant - Philadelphia, PA and South Jersey

Aversa PR & Events seeks an organized, creative and driven social media rock star to assist with 20+ client accounts that cover retail, fashion, beauty, food, neighborhoods, tourism and much more. We work with small business owners, entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders that expect the best from us - including smart and creative results, on a budget, in a timely manner, with measurable results. We're seeking a proven professional with documented experience in collecting and organizing content, developing short and long range strategies, growing social media followings, crafting an ongoing, unique for each business, teaching social media best practices to clients, and maintaining a content calendar.

Successful candidates will exhibit attention to detail, be good communicators, work well under pressure, have a sense of humor, work within budget and  time frames, and be able to generate award-winning messaging on the fly. Proven experience in managing social media accounts (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest) preferred. This is a new starter position with ten to fifteen hours per week with option to grow position in future. Dependable transportation at all times is a must as clients require store visits, photo shoots, meetings and event support. Office-based position in South Philadelphia.

Please submit cover letter, resume and list of social media samples/handles to [email protected]. Applications will be considered incomplete without all three elements. No phone calls please. For more information about us and our company, visit www.aversapr.com or follow us on Twitter at @koryaversa

Social Media and Public Relations Fall Intern - Philadelphia, PA and South Jersey

Aversa PR & Events seeks a motivated, mature and responsible intern to assist with our award-winning, unique and fun clients. You’ll gain experience in working to promote everything from theatre to cupcakes to circus arts and everything in between. Qualified candidates will have an understanding and some experience with social media, public relations and event planning. We seek someone that is creative, driven and detail-oriented with a good sense of humor. Excellent
communications skills and a strong knowledge of social media are a must! Our agency works with a small businesses, arts groups and nonprofit clients and has the most interesting portfolio in the
region. You will gain a great deal of knowledge and practical professional experience and enjoy some fun perks from those with whom we work. This internship can be full time or part time, but at least 12-15 hours per week. Start and end dates are flexible.

The successful candidate will have the following qualities/experience:
-Strong written and verbal communications skills
-Social media knowledge and presence
-Attention to detail
-Ability and desire to take initiative
-Sense of humor
-Willingness to learn
-Flexibility
-Ability to juggle multiple projects at once and meat deadlines
-Interest in and ability to attend and represent Aversa PR at events

Please submit resume, cover letter and social media handles/samples to [email protected]. Complete applications only. For more about us, visit www.aversapr.com

Philly Loves Fun Fall Intern - Philadelphia, PA and South Jersey

Philly Loves Fun seeks a motivated, mature and responsible intern to assist with social media, public relation and events. We are a website that writes and promotes many of the great activities that happen in Philadelphia that make the city so remarkable. We seek an intern with strong writing skills and a personal polish who can help us cover some of these events. You should have excellent verbal and written communications skills; be experienced in blogging and social media channels including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram; and come to the position with drive, focus and ideas. You will gain a great deal of knowledge and practical professional experience and enjoy some fun
perks from those with whom we work. This is a part-time internship ranging between 10-20 (or more if desired) hours a week and offers a small weekly stipend.

The successful candidate will have the following qualities/experience:
-Strong writer
-Experience working with blogging content management systems
-Social media knowledge and presence
-Attention to detail
-Ability and desire to take initiative
-Sense of humor
-Willingness to learn
-Flexibility
-Interest in and ability to attend and represent Philly Loves Fun at events

Interested candidates should forward a cover letter, resume, social media links and blog samples to [email protected]. For more about us, visit www.aversapr.com and www.phillylovesfun.com

Client News: Brat Productions Dishes Up New Spaghetti Western with The Last Plot in Revenge

This June, Brat Productions gives you dinner theatre like you’ve never experienced it before. The Last Plot in Revenge is a spaghetti western, dinner theatre, musical – with the signature Brat twist of mixed genres, surprising collaborations and rock star talent.  Up-and-coming local playwright Brian Grace-Duff takes you to Revenge, Montana, a land where the wild rule, the whiskey runs, the whores are tired, the guns are smokin’ – and there is only one cemetery plot left in the whole town.  Let the Scrapfields and the MacGruels duke it out, because when the Nameless Gunman enters, who knows who will be left standing?  After all, revenge is a dish best served with a plate of spaghetti. 

Revenge begins previews June 12, opens on June 15, and runs through June 29, 2013 at the Archive Space at Lucy’s Hat Shop (247 Market, Philadelphia, PA). Show time varies per night between 7:00 PM and 7:30 PM. Times can be confirmed on the ticket link page. Tickets are on sale now for $15.00 to $20.00, and available at www.bratproductions.org and bratproductions.ticketleap.com. Promotional support is provided by Yelp. 

Grab a glass of whiskey to settle the stomach, because The Last Plot in Revenge is not for the faint of heart.  Audiences members will be immersed in blood, violence, and nightmares.  Select audience members may even choose to sit in the "blood splash zone."  Directed by Obie-Award winning director and co-founder of the NYC Fringe John Clancy, The Last Plot in Revenge features haunting new music by Peter Gaffney, innovative puppetry by Aaron Cromie, and in-your-face fight choreography by Brett Cassidy.  With lighting design by Matt Sharp and scenic design by Doug Greene, immerse yourself in a world of illusion, lust, and an actual spaghetti dinner – provided by Nick’s Roast Beef with the support of Esposito's Meats.

The stellar cast features performances by Lesley Berkowitz, Nathan Foley, Rachel Icenogle, Sarah Larsen, Sarah Schol, Johnny Smith, and Jordi Wallen as well as up and coming talent Lana Brucker, Dane Eissler, and Frankie Gallucci.    

The Last Plot in Revenge was developed, created, and produced as part of Brat Productions' Resident Artist program, which supports groundbreaking artists interested in challenging misconceptions about what theatre is and can be.  Resident Artist Brian Grace-Duff's successor for the 2013-14 season will be soon-to-be graduate of the Pig Iron School of Advanced Performance Training Scott Sheppard.  

ABOUT  JOHN CLANCY

John Clancy is an Obie award winning director and a partner in Clancy Productions, a critically acclaimed international theatrical touring and production company. He is the founding Artistic Director of The Present Company, a leading Off-Off Broadway theatre company and a founding Artistic Director of The New York International Fringe Festival, North America’s largest theater and performance festival.  He currently serves as the Executive Director of the League of Independent Theater, the advocacy organization for Off-Off Broadway.  His plays have won The American Shorts Contest, The San Francisco Playwrights Center Dramarama, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe First and have been short-listed for the Julie Harris Playwrighting Award and the Actors Theatre of Louisville Heideman Award.  He has directed six Scotsman Fringe First winning productions at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and two Best of the Fringe Award winning productions at the Adelaide Fringe. His shows have played the Menier Chocolate Factory (London), The Helix (Dublin), The Traverse, (Edinburgh), The Tron (Glasgow), the World Stage Festival, (Toronto), The Belvoir Street Theatre, (Sydney) and PS 122, the Ohio Theatre and Barrow Street Theatre in New York City. He serves on the Advisory Council of The New York Theatre Experience, Inc., the city’s preeminent resource center for downtown theater. He is a New York Theatre Workshop Usual Suspect and was awarded The New York Magazine Award in 1997 for “creativity, enterprise and vision”. In 2002 he received a Glasgow Herald Angel for excellence in direction at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. In 2007 Clancy Productions was awarded the inaugural Edinburgh International Festival Award.   He lives on the Lower East Side with his wife, Nancy Walsh.

ABOUT BRIAN GRACE-DUFF

Last year, Brian was a playwright-in-residence with PDC@ Plays and Players, which gave him the opportunity to participate in a writing intensive with Robert Smythe at the Eugene O'Neill Center's national puppetry conference. Brian's play The Death Card was seen in the 2011 Fringe Festival, and originally conceived during P. Seth’s Bauer’s playwrighting workshop at the University of Pennsylvania where Brian worked as the Student Event Coordinator at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. There, he originated a new performance series for local and student theatre collaborations, called MERGE. Brian has also created For Change  (PTC@Play), Remains (Endtimes Productions), The Opposite of Moths (PDC), Sports Centered (Tactile Theatre), Criminal (Pittsburgh New Works Festival).  He is a proud member of The Foundry and alumni of West Chester University. 

ABOUT PETER GAFFNEY

Peter Gaffney has lived, taught and performed in Prague, London, Paris and (since 1999) Philadelphia. Co-founding Cabaret Red Light in 2008, Peter has served at various times as artistic director, music director/composer, and head writer for more than twenty-three original musical productions in Philadelphia, Baltimore and New York. When he is not working on a show, he teaches philosophy, literature and cinema at University of Pennsylvania and Curtis Institute of Music. He is the editor and co-author of the book "The Force of the Virtual: Deleuze, Science, and Philosophy" (University of Minnesota Press, 2010), nominated for the Michelle Kendrick Memorial Book Prize in 2011. http://www.neosequitur.com.

ABOUT BRAT PRODUCTIONS

Founded in 1996, Brat’s mission is to create new theatre-going audiences by producing theatre that breaks the rules; theatre that tests conventions; theatre that rocks! Over the years, Brat has established itself as one of Philadelphia’s most adventurous theatre companies and is known for using unusual performance venues to enhance original and noteworthy productions.  Its numerous productions have included Three Chord Fiction, winner of the Ted and Stevie Wolf Barrymore Award for New Approaches to Collaboration, Haunted Poe, A 24-Hour The Bald Soprano, A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant and EYE-95, Retarred.

Client News: Diner en Blanc Returns to Philadelphia in Summer of 2013 - Wait List is Now Open!

Dîner en Blanc will return to Philadelphia in the summer of 2013 for another evening filled with magic, food, fashion, art and music. Organizers of the pop-up picnic in white will announce the official date in mid-to-late May. In anticipation, the wait list is now open at philadelphia.dinerenblanc.info. As of 2:00 PM, over 1,000 people have already flooded the website and added their names to receive an official invitation. The wait list does not guarantee a spot to Dîner Blanc Philadelphia. It does ensure that wait list members will be notified when slots for the event go on sale in early summer.

Last year, 1,300 people attended the debut of Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia, with 650 slots sold (which included registration for two people) and 4,000 people on the wait list. The event went on to be called Philadelphia's "Party of the Year" -- and won a Pepperpot Public Relations Award from the Public Relations Society of America, Philadelphia Chapter.

The official event date for the 2013 Diner en Blanc will be announced later in May, along with details of a special preview party on Wednesday, June 5, 2013 at Williams-Sonoma at the Bellevue Hyatt. For more information, follow Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia on Facebook and on Twitter (@debphl).

About Dîner en Blanc:  Launched with just a handful of friends by François Pasquier nearly 25 years ago, Paris’ Dîner en Blanc will bring tens of thousands of white-clad guests to 40 cities across 5 continents, from Barcelona to London, from Montreal to Sydney. For more information on Dîner en Blanc International, visit www.Dînerenblanc.info

Client News: City of Hope Seeks Furriest Philadelphian to Raise Dollars for Prostate Research

Joint project with Philly Loves Fun, 1010 Creative (and Jami Slotnick) and City of Hope Philadelphia Office

Jay Michael Salon and Spa (at The Phoenix, 1600 Arch Street) is helping men lose the fur before beach season as they present Manscape Mania and the search for “Furriest Philadelphian.” On Sunday, May 19, 2013, from 10:00am to 4:00pm, all Jay Michael stylists and employees will volunteer their time and donate 100% of proceeds from men’s salon packages to City of Hope to help them in the fight against prostate cancer. All participants and their guests will enjoy specially priced salon packages, beer tastings, complimentary nibbles, free gifts and a chance to win a $1,000 prize getaway package. In advance of the event, one winner will be named “Furriest Philadelphian,” entitling them to a year of free services and products. An additional winner at the event will be named “Most Dramatic Makeover.” For information, click here or call 267-514-8000.

Manscape Mania is the perfect opportunity for men spruce up and look sharp for summer. Significant others are invited to come and watch as men lose the fur with one-time exclusive packages:

* The Scapegoat - Manly manicure, Pedicure, Chest and Back Wax ($100.00)
* The Cityscape - Manly manicure, eyebrow wax, fifteen minute chair massage, cut and style  ($100.00)
* The Beachscape - Thirty minute relaxation massage, thirty minute facial or bacial, manly manicure, cut and style ($200.00)
* The Sexyscape - Back or chest wax, thirty minute facial or bacial, manly manicure, cut and style and hint of color treatment ($200.00)

A la carte services are also available for cut and style, manly mani and waxing services at a discounted price (one-day only).  All pricing is available for one-day only, with appointments available on a first-come, first-served basis. Special pricing can’t be combined with other discounts. One hundred percent of proceeds will go to City of Hope as staff are generously donating their wages from the day to pay it forward  or “Live a Beautiful Life” (the company’s tagline/mission statement.)

During the event, participants will also enjoy complimentary nibbles and beer samples from Tirnanog, as well as a free Matrix boxed gift set (valued at $40) and a free ride gift card from Uber (valued up to $20). All participants will also be entered to win a grand prize package for two inclusive of items such as a Tiffany necklace and an Atlantic City Weekend Hotel Package!

In advance of Manscape Mania, City of Hope and Jay Michael is looking to crown one lucky male “Furriest Philadelphian.” The winner will receive a makeover during Manscape Mania, plus a year of free styling products (approximate value $400) and a year of complementary haircuts (approximate value $2,000). Interested applicants can apply by sending a current photo (headshot and full body) to [email protected] by May 12, 2013.  Friends and family can also nominate a winner. Entries must include name, age and email address. Must be 21 and older to participate. Certain restrictions apply.

“It’s a humorous way to show our salon’s not-so-serious side,” explained Manager, Sylwia Cunningham. “We are a five-star salon and spa but we also like to have fun and also help those in need. City of Hope is a very worthy charity and we’re happy to help find—and make over— this furry man! I guess you could say we’re letting our hair down for a day!”

At the event, one lucky winner will also be named “Most Dramatic Makeover.” Before and after shots will be judged at the end of the day by Josh Hafetz, President of Raylon Corporation, a wholesale beauty distributor.

“We love working with Jay Michael Salon and Spa, “ said Harry Giordano, Senior Director of Development for City of Hope’s Northeast Region. “They have been long-time supporters of our cause I am looking forward to seeing the before and after of the Furriest Philadelphian – it’s a fun event for everyone and a day that going to be really great!”

For more information visit www.facebook.com/ ManscapeMania. Appointments are now being accepted by calling 267-514-8000 or visiting jaymichael.com. Entries for Furriest Philadelphian are also now being taken via email to [email protected].

About Jay Michael Salon and Spa

Jay Michael Salon and Spa has been providing exceptional salon experiences since 1985. For decades, Philadelphia’s elite have flocked to Jay’s gorgeously appointed salons. Jay has partnered with Sarah Keating, owner of the former Phoenix Salon and Spa, and now has two warm and welcoming beauty establishments, one at Center City’s The Phoenix, the other at The Radnor Hotel. Jay Michael employs only the most seasoned, sensational staff members, extending incredible services to his clients. From coloring and cutting to breathtaking up dos, from indulgent massages and facials to waxing, make-up applications and manicures, Jay Michael Salon and Spa does it all. Each salon visit is guaranteed to exceed your most discriminating expectations, all the while making you look and feel fabulous. Visit jaymichael.com for more info.

About City of Hope

City of Hope is recognized worldwide for its compassionate patient care, innovative science and translational research, which rapidly turns laboratory breakthroughs into promising new therapies. For 100 years, City of Hope’s pioneering research has brought the world closer to cures for many life-threatening diseases, from cancer to diabetes. Compassion drives our innovation. Every discovery we make and new treatment we develop gives patients the chance to live longer, better and more fully. As an independent medical and research institution, we can break through the barriers that traditionally stand between scientists and physicians, accelerating the application of laboratory findings to more effective treatments. We work with urgency because time matters. Patients with cancer need better options today, not next week or next year. For many people, City of Hope is where hope begins. Visit cityofhope.org for more information.

Client News: East Passyunk Hosts Party at Singing Fountain to Celebrate Food & Wine Honor, 5 New Retailers, Food Truck Round-up, More

East Passyunk Avenue has been named one of the "10 Best Foodie Streets in America" in the May 2013 issue of Food & Wine Magazine. The story honors the thriving dining scene with special mentions for Fond (1537 S. 11th Street), Pollyodd (1908 EPA), Marras (1736-8 EPA), Will BYOB (1911 EPA) and Era Atomica (1726 EPA). On Wednesday, April 17, 2013, East Passyunk Business Improvement District (EPABID) will celebrate this amazing accolade with a party around the Singing Fountain (EPA and Tasker Street) from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. DisCanto, folk musicians from Abruzzo, will perform a free concert as part of a tour arranged by Le Virtu.  Fond, Stateside and other restaurants around the Singing Fountain will present happy hour specials. Chef Joncarl Lachman, of the soon-to-open Noord, will meet and greet his new neighbors and provide a quick look into the new restaurant. Other surprises will be added - and guests are invited to make a group toast with a photo around the Singing Fountain. For updates, please follow @epassyunkave on Twitter or "Like" East Passyunk Avenue on Facebook.

This great honor follows the successful launch of East Passyunk Restaurant Week, and comes in advance of the soon-to-sell out Flavors of the Avenue festival. Other opportunities to dine and explore East Passyunk in April include:

* Saturday, April 13, 2013 (All day, extended hours into night) - April Second Saturday - Largest Second Saturday in East Passyunk's history with art, music, specials, sales, fashion and food festivities

* Sunday, April 14, 2013 (1:00pm to 4:00pm) - QOTA Party - Monthly rotating LGBT happy hour comes to Metro Mens (1615 EPA)

* Thursday, April 25, 2013 (11:00am to 3:00pm) - Debut of Dining Out for Life Gourmet Food Truck Round-Up at parking lot between Tasker and Morris, including Vernalicious, The Cow and the Curd, Spot Burgers, Delicias, Gigi's & Big R, The Farm Truck, Cupcake Carnivale, Mac Mart and The Sunflower Truck

* Saturday, April 27, 2013 (1:00pm to 4:00pm) - Flavors of the Avenue - South Philadelphia's outdoor food and drink festival featuring a record-setting 25 restaurants, all VIP tickets sold out in under two weeks, and general admission pre-sale tickets on track to sell out within a week, Crafty Balboa April showers featuring sold-out roster of crafters and artisans

Outside of exciting dining options, East Passyunk Avenue announces the debut of new retail stores that will give diners five new reasons to come before dinner and shop, stroll and explore:

* Addiciton Boutique (Coming to 1713 S. 12th St.) - Women's fashions

* Cloth (Coming to 1605 EPA) -  Natural baby-apparel and accessories

* Hip & Thrifty (Coming to 1810 EPA) - Vintage and gently used clothing

* Oliver & Company Tea Room (Grand opening this weekend at 1613 EPA) - East Passyunk's first tea room

* Occasionette (Grand opening this weekend at 1825 EPA) - Girls Can Tell opens new gift shop

For more information and directions, like East Passyunk Avenue on Facebook, follow @epassyunkave on Twitter, pin East Passyunk Avenue on Pinterest, visit www.visiteastpassyunk.com or call 215-336-1455.

Client Event: East Passyunk Hosts Largest Second Saturday Ever with Art, Food, Fashion and More

East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District (EPABID) – one of Food & Wine’s Top 10 Best Foodie Streets in America -- presents April’s “Second Saturday” this Saturday, April 13, 2013 with a full roster of events, specials, tastings and openings. Shop and restaurant owners are opening up their doors for what promises to be the largest Second Saturday to date – and a beautiful, warm, sunny day.  Highlights include HOME’s photo and art exhibit based on the food of East Passyunk, Le Virtu’s photo exhibit and live music by Abruzzese folk group DisCanto, the grand opening of Occasionette and much more. For the most complete schedule of activities, visit East Passyunk Avenue on Facebook and search the “Event” tab. Also, please visit http://visiteastpassyunk.com or call 215-336-1455.  Times and any fees for activities are listed below.

SECOND SATURDAY LINE-UP (As of Wednesday, April 10, 2013):

* Calm Studio (1214 Moore St) - $2.00 off any yoga class for the week of April 13th starting with Second Saturday or book any massage and get $10 off. Calm monthly specials are excluded from this offer. View schedule of classes and prices atwww.becalmbewell.com.

* Coco Lu's Fashionz, Flowerz & More (1935 EPA) - 20% discount off total purchase, 11am-4pm.

* Frame Fatale (1813 EPA) - Opening reception for “Postcards from the Ledge: Philadelphia Windows” -- black and white photography by RA Friedman. Lead by the unique quirkiness, mystery and beauty of the Philadelphia cityscape, RA Friedman presents a selection of captured reflections and odd spaces in silvery postcard-sized prints. Refreshments will be served. 6pm-9pm

* Fringe Salon (1728 EPA) – Sara Karolina Heinio presents works in her “Mexican Culture Series. 6pm-10pm

* Headhunters Hair Design (1718 EPA) - Spring Second Saturday deals + contest. Rock a new look for spring with 10% off new jewelry, 20% off new clients (with Christine) for any service, 10% off airbrushing. 

* HOME | A Furnishings Boutique (1815 EPA) - Philadelphia based artists Felicia Perretti and Hawk Krall will be exhibiting their food artwork. They teamed up to showcase the most well-known food spots along Passyunk. Refreshments. Starts at 6pm

* Kings Music (1828 EPA) - Peavey showcase with live music. Check out new amps, guitars and more. 11am-4pm

* Le Virtu (1927 EPA) - "Photographer Kateri Likoudis in Abruzzo" with a performance by the Abruzzese folk group DisCanto; admission is free; complimentary stuzzichini (snacks) and wine. Exhibition of photos taken in the region in late spring and fall of 2012. 1pm-3pm

* Lucky 13 (1820 S. 13th Street) - Sweet Jane Vintage trunk show + artwork by Paul Carpenter with drink specials and 20-50% off on all vintage. 1pm-5pm

* Metro Men's Clothing (1615 EPA) - 15% off and complimentary cocktails while you shop. 

* Ms Goody Cupcake (1838 EPA) - Cake truffles buy 2 get 1 free, $2 special flavor cupcakes and spring flavor sampling. FREE coffee with any purchase in morning. Open 9am - 4pm (or sell out)

* N.R.S. Boutique (1822 EPA) - Spring sale! All items 20% off, 11:30am-8pm

* Noir Philadelphia (1909 EPA) - After the art openings and shopping sprees, come sit a spell with a special Second Saturday late night happy hour with $1 off drafts, $4 wine, $4 well drinks and half off select appetizers at the bar. 9-11pm

* Nice Things... Handmade (1731 EPA) - Check out this months new work by local artist Bridget Mccafferty who also happens to be the printing hands behind Typsy Gypsy Tees. This show is a collection of her most recent paintings featuring all new work! Meet the artist and enjoy refreshments. 6-10pm

* Occasionette (1825 EPA) - Grand opening party!! Get ready to shop until you drop as East Passyunk's newest gift shop makes its grand debut. Complimentary light refreshments. 5pm-10pm

* Oliver & Company Tea Room (1613 EPA) - Grand opening party in our brand new tea room! Time TBA.

* Pollyodd (1908 EPA) - Complimentary Strawberrycello Cream samples, a new and special treat! 5-7pm

* Sermania Jewelry (1719 EPA) - Sale on all Communion gift items, there is still time to place a special order on a personalized ware. Browse new arrivals of sterling, gold and colored stones jewelry for Mom's Day. Complimentary jewelry item inspection and cleaning, along with refreshments will be offered.

ABOUT EAST PASSYUNK AVENUE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District is home to 150 independently owned shops and markets that perfectly balances the best of the old and the new, mixing old world shopping, authentic Italian restaurants, world famous cheese steaks, with trendy boutiques, handmade arts, world-class cuisine and record-breaking events.

Chef-driven restaurants have pushed this once-faded community into the national spotlight. East Passyunk Avenue boasts more than 30 eateries, from authentic traditional Italian restaurants to gastropubs, including four of Philadelphia magazine’s Top 50 Restaurants: Stateside, Le Virtu, Fond and Will.  Capogiro Gelato Artisans scoops up National Geographic’s “best ice cream in the world” just down the block from cheese steak global headquarters, where Pat’s and Geno’s still vie to be called the best of this Philly staple.

Anchored by the beautifully restored Singing Fountain, a communal gathering place on Tasker Street, this store-lined commercial corridor hosts events of all shapes and sizes. Annual outdoor favorites include foodie-festival Flavors of the Avenue, the Car Show & Street Festival, Farmers’ Markets and East Passyunk Craft Beer Day.

Client Event: Let Them Eat Cake Fondant Food Fest Returns with 40+ Bakers and Chefs

Forty professional bakers, pastry chefs and students present their finest fondant creations during the 9th “Let Them Eat Cake: A Night at the Movies” on Monday, April 15, 2013 at the Marion (1301 Route 130 South, Cinnaminson, New Jersey). Dessert lovers, food fanatics and brides/grooms-to-be will converge for the 9th annual competition featuring the best of the best. Guests will enjoy samplings of the area’s finest pastry decorated in movie themes, complimentary Korbel champagne, fabulous sounds from Back 2 Life by Brandywine Valley Talent, and the opportunity to meet celebrity judge Ron Ben-Israel, host of cooking competition TV show Sweet Genius. All proceeds benefit cancer research & treatment at City of Hope. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. For tickets, contact Harry Giordano at 215-985-0869.  Parking is free. 

VIP judges from the culinary arts and wedding industries, as well as local celebrities, will be on hand to award Best of Show, Most Artistic, Best Tasting and a Best Theme prize for the cake with the finest display of this year’s theme of “A Night at the Movies”. Guests can also vote in the "People Choice" category.  The roster of celebrity judges includes Ron Ben-Israel, host of cooking competition TV show Sweet Genius, as well as:

** Anne-Michelle Alberston, Chef Alberstons Cooking School
** Charlotte Albertson, Chef Alberstons Cooking School
** Mary Bigham, Town Dish and What's Cooking with Mary on WCHE
** Laura Burkhardt, Where Magazine
** Natanya DiBona, Co-CHair Diner en Blanc Philadelphia
** Tracey DeShaine, Chef/ Owner of Dixie Picnic
** Kathy Gold, President of Les Dames D'Escoffier & Chef/ Owner of In the Kitchen CookingCompany
** George Kryatas, Owner/TV Chef Sweetwater Grille
** Lari Robling, Food Journalist/ Producer WHYY (nominated for James Beard Award)
** Marilyn Russell, BENFM

A partial list of bakeries and chefs signed up for 2013’s “Cake” event include:

** Granny Schmidt's
** The Merion
** Piece 'a Cake
** Classic Cake
** The Master's Baker
** Adelaides Cakes
** Artisserie Bakery
** The Sweet Life Bakery
** Good Foods to Go
** Art Institute of Philadelphia (Eric Boerner)
** Sweet T's Bakeshop
** The Ambler Bake Shop LLC
** Davio's Restaurant
** Truly Custom Cakery
** Restaurant School of Walnut Hill
** Art Institute of Philadelphia (Eric Boerner)
** Restaurant School of Walnut Hill

Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. For tickets, contact Harry Giordano at 215-985-0869.  Tickets are also available online.

About City of Hope

City of Hope is a leading research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. Designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center, the highest honor bestowed by the National Cancer Institute, and a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network,

City of Hope's research and treatment protocols advance care throughout the nation. City of Hope is located in Duarte, Calif., just northeast of Los Angeles, and is ranked as one of “America’s Best Hospitals” in cancer and urology by U.S.News & World Report. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a pioneer in the fields of bone marrow transplantation and genetics. For more information, visit www.cityofhope.org.

Aversa PR is proud to provide promotional support for this event at no charge. Our sister company Philly Loves Fun is also particpating as a paid official blogger. Please join us! 

Client News: Give Kids Sight Day Provides Free Exams and Glasses to Philadelphia Children

Public Citizens for Children and Youth (PCCY), Eagles Youth Partnership, Wills Eye Institute, Thomas Jefferson University and Visionworks announce the fourth annual Give Kids Sight Day on Saturday, April 13, 2013.  Free eye exams and free glasses will be provided for Philadelphia children ages 18 and under who are uninsured and underinsured and do not have access to vision care.  Registration opens at 8:00am and extends through 2:00pm at Jefferson University Hospital Alumni Hall at 10th and Locust streets.  After registration, medical eye exams will be provided at Wills Eye Institute and Thomas Jefferson University.  Families will be helped on a first come, first served basis. No appointments are necessary.  Special thanks to sponsor First Hospital Foundation for their support.   For more information, call (215) 563-5848, ext. 21 or visit http://www.pccy.org/sightday.  

“Each year, thousands of children in Philadelphia fail their vision screen at school and never get care,” says Alex V. Levin, MD, MHSc, Chief of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Ocular Genetics at Wills Eye Institute.  “This has great impact on their ability to learn. Each year at Give Kids Sight Day at Wills, we identify children with a wide range of vision threatening eye disease including cataract, untreated legal blindness and eye muscle problems. This day is an opportunity for children to receive the vision care they need. Hundreds of loyal volunteers from Wills and health care institutions across the city will make this a reality.”

With approximately 26,000 Philadelphia children without insurance, and nearly 20,000 Philadelphia School District students failing a vision screening in the most recent academic year, Sight Day is more relevant than ever before. “Last school year, even with the full time services of the Eagles Eye Mobile, approximately 65 percent of the children who failed a school screening did not receive a follow up eye exam – which means these students didn’t get glasses,” said PCCY Health Policy Director, Colleen McCauley.  “In addition to providing free eye care on Sight Day, we want to let parents know that if they have Medical Assistance or CHIP for their children these programs cover vision exams and glasses - even replacement glasses if needed.”

The sponsors of Sight Day are pleased to announce a new partnership with Visionworks, a national optical retailer with 17 stores in the Greater Philadelphia region. The company employs locally and due to their proximity and manufacturing facility in nearby Newtown Square, Visionworks will make the glasses for children to receive them within two weeks of Sight Day.  All 1,000+ pairs of eye glasses will be produced at the company’s manufacturing facility the weekend after the event.  

Registration, screening and selecting glasses at Sight Day may take several hours. Participating families are encouraged to plan ahead for food, transportation and parking.  Thanks to a donation from Visionworks, two SEPTA tokens per child will be given to each parent.  While waiting for eye care, families will be invited to participate in a health fair featuring blood pressure screenings and health information.

Interpreters in Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese and several other languages will be available at Sight Day to assist families.   All families can get help applying for health insurance at Sight Day.  Over 500 caring doctors and citizens have already volunteered to help at the event.

For more information, call (215) 563-5848, ext. 21 or visit www.pccy.org/sightday.  On the Sight Day Facebook page, flyers about the event are available in twelve different languages.  

ABOUT PCCY

Founded in 1980, Public Citizens for Children and Youth is dedicated to improving the lives and life chances of children in the Delaware Valley. *A copy of PCCY’s  updated version of our  Children’s Vision Health Resource Guide’ Children’  can be downloaded under the ‘Publications’ link on our website at www.pccy.org.

ABOUT EAGLES YOUTH PARTNERSHIP

Eagles Youth Partnership brings health and educational resources to more than 50,000 children and youth each year throughout the Philadelphia region, inspiring hope and leveraging the star power of the Philadelphia Eagles to positively influence their lives. For 17 years, their Eagles Eye Mobile programs have been providing free eye care and eye glasses for tens of thousands of children who would otherwise lack access.  For more information on Eagles Youth Partnership programs visit www.EaglesYouthPartnership.org.

ABOUT WILLS EYE

Wills Eye Institute is a global leader in ophthalmology, established in 1832 as the nation’s first hospital specializing in eye care. U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks Wills Eye as one of America’s top ophthalmology centers. In the Castle Connolly publications, “America’s Top Doctors,” Wills Eye has the highest number of ophthalmologists nationwide. Wills Eye is a premier training site for all levels of medical education. Its resident and post-graduate training programs are among the most competitive in the country. One of the many core strengths of Wills is the close connection between innovative research and advanced patient care. Wills provides the full range of primary and subspecialty eye care for improving and preserving sight, including cataract, cornea, retina, emergency care, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology, ocular oncology, oculoplastics, pathology, pediatric ophthalmology and ocular genetics, and refractive surgery. Wills Eye, America’s First, World’s Best. To learn more, please visit www.willseye.org.

ABOUT VISIONWORKS

Visionworks (formerly Eye Care Centers of America, Inc.) is a leading provider of eye care services with more than 590 optical retail stores in 40 states and the District of Columbia through 11 store names that are leaders in eye care service in each of their respective markets. Visionworks is committed to providing our customers with an excellent shopping experience and high quality products and service with the best value and selection in the industry. All stores offer designer and exclusive brand frames, lenses, sunglasses and accessories along with leading technology in vision correction. Their comprehensive service offerings include contact lens dispensing, in-store labs which provide one-hour service on most prescriptions at nearly all locations and doctors of optometry at or next to every store. Visionworks is a wholly owned subsidiary of HVHC, Inc. For more information about Visionworks, visit www.visionworks.com.