Aversa PR & Events

Client News: Children of East Passyunk Learn to Give Back During Bunny Hop for Make-A-Wish Foundation

The Easter Bunny makes an early appearance to help grant a special child’s wish. On Wednesday, March 20, 2013, at 11:00 AM, Alphabet Academy presents their annual Bunny Hop at the East Passyunk Singing Fountain (Tasker Street and East Passyunk Avenue) to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation.  Parents and children from Alphabet Academy will join with Passyunk business owners, neighbors and civic groups to raise $8,000 to help grant Gabe’s wish to go to Disneyland.  The event is open to the public. Donations can be made at any Alphabet Academy location (1506, 1510, 1631 and 1720  East Passyunk Avenue), or at http://friends.wish.org/051-000/page/Alphabet-Academy/Bunny-Hop.htm. For more information, call (215) 551-6410.

Alphabet Academy will again partner with Make-a-Wish Foundation to fund a wish for a child with a life-threatening illness. While a wish will not a cure, it can give them a chance to forget, just for a little while, the sadness of being sick. Make-a-Wish Foundation reports that a wish come true almost always has a positive effect on a child by bringing hope back into his or her life and a reason to continue a grown-up battle.

Proceeds raised this year will help Gabe, a five year old boy battling cerebral palsy. His wish is to visit Disneyland with his family.  In 2012, Alphabet Academy helped a child like Gabe by raising $7,822.75. With help from the public, Alphabet Academy hopes to beat last year’s total.

The general public is invited to donate towards the campaign, as well as stop by the Bunny Hop itself. Donations can be dropped at any Alphabet Academy Child Care location (1506, 1510, 1631 and 1720  East Passyunk Avenue),  on Tuesday, March 19 and Wednesday, March 20, 2013.  Donations can be made at http://friends.wish.org/051-000/page/Alphabet-Academy/Bunny-Hop.htm

About Alphabet Academy

Established in 1998, Alphabet Academy is a leader among Philadelphia preschools with learning experiences that promote creativity and self-confidence. The Tree House builds upon this tradition by adding environmental education to the curriculum.  Other Alphabet Academy locations include Alphabet Aquarium, Alphabet Station (and Infant Center) and Alphabet Garden.

Alphabet Academy believes in teaching children early about giving back to the community, helping others, understanding of themselves and how they can impact the world around them.  Each year children and families in the Alphabet Academy network host a food and toy drive around the holidays, as well as the annual Bunny Hop for Make-A-Wish Foundation.  

 

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Client Event: East Passyunk Avenue is Hopping During Easter Egg Hunt, Bunny Photos + Brunch

Easter Bunny Hops Over to East Passyunk for Egg-citing Family Fun

Client Event: East Passyunk Avenue is Hopping During Easter Egg Hunt, Bunny Photos + Brunch

Hop on down to East Passyunk Avenue for a day of ‘egg-citing’ Easter festivities! On Saturday, March 23, 2013, East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District (EPABID) presents its annual Easter Egg Hunt from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the lawn of the South Philadelphia Older Adult Center (1430 East Passyunk). Children are invited to decorate egg collecting bags, hunt for prize-filled eggs and meet the Easter Bunny.  Every egg will be filled with candy and Zitner’s Fine Confections.  Special golden ticket eggs will feature certificates for Belle Cakery, Favors and Flavors, Ms Goody Cupcake and prize-size Zitner's eggs. Egg Hunt times are staggered by age group, with four and under at 11:00 AM, five to seven at 12:00 PM and eight to ten at at 1:00 PM.  After the festivities, families are invited to enjoy special brunch menus and bakery discounts at participating East Passyunk eateries.  The Egg Hunt is free and open to the public. For more information, go to www.visiteastpassyunk.com or call 215-336-1455.

Brunch and bakery specials for the annual Egg Hunt will include: 

* Belle Cakery (1437 EPA) - Delicious selection of muffins, cinnamon buns, granola bars, hot chocolate, coffee, and other desserts, cookies and Easter treats. Special hours: Opens at 11:00 AM.  

* Black N Brew (1523 EPA) - Zara's Breakfast (one egg, one pancake bacon and sausage) for $5.00, Pigs in a Blanket (two pancakes two sausages) $5.00, Kids Grilled Cheese $2.95 and Kids PBJ $2.95. 

* Cantina (1651 EPA) - Fire Roasted Salsa Mac 'n' Cheese, Hard Shell Tacos (with ground beef or vegan ground beef) and Blue Corn Meal Chicken Tenders.

* Favors and Flavors (1827 EPA) – $1.00 off children’s ice cream cones.

* Fuel (1917 EPA) - $1.00 pancakes for the kids and FREE Coffee with brunch for the adults.

* Ms Goody Cupcake (1838 EPA) - $2.00 spring + Easter cupcakes including Gigi’s famous Peeps cupcakes, free samples of Mommy's Rice Ricotta Cheese Pie, and cake truffles on sale for buy two get one free. 

In past years, the annual Egg Hunt attracted more than 350 children that searched for 1,000+ Easter Eggs. In 2013, EPABID expects record turnout and is busy preparing eggs to meet growing demand.

This free event is held rain or shine. In case of inclement weather, bags of candy will be handed out at 11:00 AM in front of the South Philadelphia Older Adult Center (1430 East Passyunk). For weather updates, visit East Passyunk Avenue on Facebook or @epassyunkave on Twitter. For additional information, visit  www.visiteastpassyunk.com or call 215-336-1455.

* 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.

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

Client News: East Passyunk Avenue Debuts Taxi Stand During Restaurant Week

Walk, run, subway, bus, drive and now taxi to East Passyunk Restaurant Week (EPRW). Dining and shopping along East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District (EPABID) has never been easier with the debut of a new taxi stand at East Passyunk between Tasker and Morris streets. The taxi stand will be open every night during East Passyunk Restaurant Week, from February 24, 2013 to March 2, 2013 after 7:00pm. After March 2, 2013, the taxi stand will be open on Fridays and Saturday nights only. Two valet stands will also extend service to include weekdays during EPRW after 5:00pm, at East Passyunk between Broad and Mifflin streets, and at the Singing Fountain. A third valet between Tasker and Morris will also operate on Friday and Saturday night. The taxi stand and extended valet days are presented by Passyunk Avenue Revitalization Corporation, EPABID and participating restaurants. 

“Nothing, and we mean nothing, gets in the way of award-winning food! The new taxti stand and extended valet days will help attract diners from around the region for East Passyunk’s first Restaurant Week,” said EPABID Director Renee Gilinger. “The taxi stand will continue year round to help drive more tourists, city-dwellers and suburbanites to shop, stroll and dine along the Avenue. Taxi and valet stands are a win-win for locals as they minimize the number of cars trying to park along EPABID. Visitors can now leave cars at home and have confidence in hailing a taxi in the heart of South Philadelphia.”

Between February 24, 2013 to March 2, 2013, the new taxi stand (between Tasker and Morris) will operate nightly after 7:00pm and two valet stations (between Broad and Mifflin, and at the Singing Fountain) will operate nightly after 5:00pm to 2:00am. Valet parking is $8.00 with validation from a participating restaurant, and $15 without validation. Guests are also welcome to drop their car off at one stand and pick it up at any other stand. This encourages dining, shopping and stroll of the Avenue. On March 1 and 2, 2013, a third valet stand will also be open at East Passyunk Avenue, between Tasker and Morris, to handle increased weekend traffic.

After EPRW, the regular weekly schedule resumes, with taxi stand after 7:00pm and valet services on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, from 5:00pm to 2:00am.  

Valet stands were introduced to East Passyunk Avenue in September of 2012. They are operated by ParkOps, LLC. Cars are parked in Neumann-Goretti's parking lot. Valet services have gotten rave reviews, including a recent five star review on Yelp that states, “The attendants were very friendly and gave off a vibe of trustworthiness, that means a lot to me when I'm handing over my keys. After our dinner, our car was retrieved promptly. Again, the attendants greeted us with friendliness...”

For additional information please contact  www.visiteastpassyunk.com or call (215) 336-1455.   

About EPABID

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. 

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

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Client News: East Passyunk Restaurant Week Debuts at 21 Award-Winning Restaurants

Reminder: The First-Ever East Passyunk Restaurant Week Begins This Sunday, February 24

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Weekend Picks: East Passyunk Restaurant Week Begins, Where To Watch The Oscars, German Bierfest, Free Admission At The National Constitution Center on Sunday And More

Client News: East Passyunk Restaurant Week Debuts at 21 Award-Winning Restaurants

East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District (EPABID) cooks up the first-ever East Passyunk Restaurant Week on Sunday, February 24 through Saturday, March 2, 2013. Twenty-one award-winning restaurants along Philadelphia’s “Food Neighborhood of the Year” (Zagat) will serve up three course, value priced brunch, lunch and dinner menus for $15, $25 and $35. From low key BYOBs to elegant candlelight dining to Italian “red gravy” joints to Mexican street food, East Passyunk Restaurant Week boasts a diversity of dining experiences and cuisines that offers something for everyone. East Passyunk’s top chefs will offer special off-menu items in addition to their standard signature dishes. Select restaurants will further personalize the experience with drink pairings, add-on specials, dessert debuts, extended hours and other rewards to delight foodies from around the region.

For menus and reviews visit www.eastpassyunkrestaurantweek.com. Menus go live starting at Noon on January 31, 2013. Additional menu updates will appear on this website, Facebook (East Passyunk Avenue) and Twitter (@epassyunkave #passyunk). Reservations are now open. Call TODAY and remember to come hungry!

“East Passyunk Restaurant Week celebrates the amazing talent that makes our dining scene so unique,” said EPABID Executive Director Renee Gilinger. “Our award-winning chefs will wow diners with seasonal cuisines, experimental dishes, neighborhood favorites and signature specialties. Guests are already starting to call for reservations so my personal advice is to call early and, without a doubt, come hungry!” For full menus and additional details, visit www.eastpassyunkrestaurantweek.com starting at Noon on January 31, 2013. Lunch and $15 menus will debut between 12:00pm and 1:00pm; $25 menus will debut between 7:00pm and 8:00pm; and $35 menus will debut on Friday, February 1, 2013 between 9:00am and 10:00am. Menu and restaurant summaries are listed below.

* $15 MENU HIGHLIGHTS *

Adobe Café (1919 EPA) – This Southwestern retreat will serve brunch on Sunday, and lunch Thursday through Saturday, with choice of soup or salad, entrée, and cheesecake or key lime pie.

El Zarape (1648 EPA) – ‘Best of Philly’ winner for best tacos will serve lunch Sunday through Saturday with highlights such as Mango Salad (Mango, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, red onions, achiote vinaigrette) and Grilled Salmon (with spinach and black bean salsa). BYOB

Fuel (1917 EPA) – Recharge with a full menu of paninis, wraps and salads made fresh with 100% organic ingredients and all under 500 calories. Lunch and dinner will run Sunday through Saturday, with any soup or salad; any panini, wrap or salad; and regular smoothies, cappuccino or dessert. For $25, enjoy the bonus of an appetizer and regular smoothie, or a cappuccino and dessert. BYOB

Marra's (1734 EPA) – Everyone’s favorite “red gravy” joint sticks to the basics with lunch Sunday through Saturday with favorites such as Chicken Cacciatore, Ravioli Sorrento and Penne Campagnola. Add a glass of wine for only $3.00. Reservations are available by calling (215) 463-9249.

Plenty (1710 EPA) – This gourmet quick-serve café will offer brunch, lunch and dinner, Sunday through Saturday, with choice of one of six specialty sandwiches, including new Provencal (grilled Ahi Tuna, olive tempanade, caramelized fennel, bibb lettuce, lemon zest crumb and cibatta). BYOB

Stogie Joe's (1801 EPA) – Your go-to place for friendly folks, cold beer and a relaxing atmosphere offers their famous meatball sandwich with choice of soup or salad, and a glass of wine all day and night for lunch, Sunday through Saturday.

South Philly Bar & Grill (1235 EPA) – America’s favorite sports bar offers brunch, lunch and dinner, Sunday through Saturday, with their famous mussels and pasta (White wine and garlic, marinara or Fra Diavolo) and the debut of Rocky Road Bread Pudding (Shorty's homemade bread pudding with chocolate, marshmallow and almonds). Add a South Philly Tap Water or Mummer’s Strut Cocktail for only $5.00. Special menu is eat-in only. Reservations are available by calling (215) 334-3300.

* $25 MENU HIGHLIGHTS *

Adobe Café (1919 EPA) – Diners will enjoy flexibility as they dine Sunday through Saturday, with choice of soup or salad, any entrée and any dessert. Their full service bar offers one of the best margaritas in Philadelphia. Reservations are available by calling (215) 551-2243.

Birra (1700 EPA) – This warm and cozy restaurant and full service bar offers five new off-menu specials during dinner service, Sunday through Saturday, including Shrimp and Grits (Seared jumbo shrimp, stone ground polenta, garlic and shallots, chilis, fontina and fresh chives), Seared Octopus (with tomato compote, 12 bean medley, shaved fennel, Hungarian paprika, fresh lemon and oregano and extra virgin olive oil) and Truffle Pizza (Taleggio, mozzarella, local mushrooms, infused extra virgin olive oil, shaved black truffle, toppied with a fried egg). Reservations accepted for parties of six or more by calling (267) 324-3127.

Cantina Los Caballitos (1651 EPA) – This “Best of Philly” winner boasts a specially created menu with an optional tequila pairing ($10 more) for dinner Sunday through Thursday. Highlights will include Grilled Squid Steak (with Chimichurri, Mexican greens, roasted corn salsa, white rice, with optional pairing of Don Julio Blanco) and Roasted Pork Loin (with Peanut Mole, refried beans, vegetable rice, paired with optional Cazadores Reposado). Vegan options are available. Reservations are available at (215) 755-3550.

El Zarape (1648 EPA) – Dinner is available at this “Best of Philly” winner, Sunday through Saturday, including Lobster Tail Al Pastor (served with pinapple salsa and assorted vegetables) and New York Strip Steak Fajita (10 ounce steak with tortillas, guacamole, crema, pica de gallo). BYOB

Mamma Maria (1637 EPA) – Mamma’s lunch menu includes a creamy pasta course and choice of main like chicken in white wine sauce or tilapia in lemon sauce. Enjoy lunch Monday through Friday. Price includes complimentary red or white wine, homemade limoncello, cake and espresso, cappuccino or coffee. Call (215) 463-6884 for reservations.

Marra's (1734 EPA) – Enjoy authentic Italian cooking with dinner Sunday through Saturday, with signature dishes, such as Clams Casino or Mussels (in red or white sauce), and Veal Alaska (topped with crabmeat, asparagus and mozzarella in a cream sauce) or Chicken Florentine (topped with prosciutto, spinach and mozzarella in a Marsala wine sauce). Add a salad for $2.00 and a glass of wine for only $3.00. Reservations are available by calling (215) 463-9249.

Noir (1909 EPA) – This alluring dining destination offers dinner Sunday and Tuesday through Saturday. Their Montreal influenced Italian cuisine includes Moules Frites (Mussels, spinach, tomato, roasted garlic, house fries), Risotto Balls (with fresh mozzarella and prosciutto) and Creamy Chicken Pot Pie (with roasted vegetables and puff pastry).

Stogie Joe's (1801 EPA) – Dinner is available Sunday through Saturday, and features house-made soup (including Escarole and Bean) or salad, choice of any pasta dish (except ravioli), garlic bread, a meatball and a glass of wine. Menu is available all day and night.

* $35 MENU HIGHLIGHTS *

Chiarella's (1600 S. 11th St.) – Classic Italian meets contemporary creativity with dinner service on Sunday Monday, Wednesday through Saturday, with favorites like Rigatoni Bolognese (Beef and sausage braised in Burgandy wine, with classic red "gravy" with rigatoni), Veal Saltimbocca (Medallions of veal topped with prosciutto and mozzarella cheese sauteed in Marsala wine with mushrooms) and Stuffed Pork Rollatini (Spinach and sharp Provolone cheese served with a white wine sauce with sweet peppers, onions and mushrooms over a bed of roasted garlic mashed potatoes). Reservations available on Open Table or by calling (215) 334-6404. BYOB

Da Vinci (1533 S. 11th St.) – Enjoy an authentic taste of Italy with dinner service Sunday, and Tuesday through Friday, with tempting selections like house-made Gnocchi Di Ricotta (with fresh ricotta in truffle cream sauce) and Rock Fish (with shallots, lemon and white wine sauce). Don’t miss the complimentary glass of homemade wine and homemade after-dinner cordials (including cellos in lemon to basil to chocolate). Add a dessert course for only $5.00. BYOB

Fond (1537 S. 11th St.) – Nothing says winter like Roasted Mushroom Risotto and Beef Short Ribs with Carmelized Onion Spaetzle, Brussels Sprouts and Bordelaise. Save room for Belle Cakery's Malted Milk Chocolate Ice Cream and Peanut Brittle. Before and after dinner, don’t miss the hottest barstool in town at Fond’s new custom-made bar. Full dinner menu with other seasonal offerings and table availability will be coming soon.

Izumi (1601 EPA) – Izumi offers high-end Japanese cuisine at neighborhood prices and their special menu stays true to this. Guest will have a choice of decadent appetizers like Duck and Foie Gras Dumplings followed by a chef’s selections of their award-winning sushi. They’ve even thrown in a complimentary dessert, Un Donut with Red Bean Dipping Sauce. Special dinner menu is offered Sunday and Tuesday through Friday, call (215) 271-1222 for reservations. BYOB

Kris (1100 Federal St.) – The former Kristian’s modern Italian menu will offer diners choices of appetizers like Crispy Calamari and Hand-Made Swiss Chard-Ricotta Ravioli; main dishes like their popular risotto, for their special menu presented with Seared Wild Sea Scallops, Mushroom and Brussels Sprouts; and decadent desserts including Tiramisu and Ricotta Donuts. Reservations are available on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday through Saturday by calling (215) 468-0104 or on Open Table.

Le Virtu (1927 EPA) – This homage to Abruzzo was just named one of the top 10 hottest Italian restaurants in the nation by Zagat and their special menu is designed to give diners a taste of what makes this region of Italy so unique. Highlights include their house-made charcuterie, Palott cac' e ove (braised egg & cheese croquettes in tomato sauce), and Maccheroni alla mugnaia (hand-pulled single-strand pasta), some of their most typical Abruzzese and signature dishes. Special menu is available Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday, call (215) 271-1222 for reservations. Please specify “Restaurant Week,” entire table must order Restaurant Week menu.

Mamma Maria (1637 EPA) –Sample Mamma's signature dishes from Mamma’s famous prix-fixe dinner menu such as Chicken alla Mamma (chicken breast sautéed in vodka, garlic and sun-dried tomatoes in cream sauce) and Flounder Francese (flounder dipped in delicate egg-batter dipped and sautéed in fresh lemon sauce) without the commitment to a 7-course experiment in gluttony! Dinner is available Sunday through Friday and includes complimentary red or white wine, homemade limoncello, dessert and espresso, cappuccino or coffee. Call (215) 463-6884 for reservations.

Paradiso (1627 EPA) – Restaurant Week highlights from this modern Italian neighborhood favorite include their House-Made Ricotta and Roasted Beet salad served with blood oranges and honey from bees raised right on the restaurant’s roof and special for the week will be a Semolina Gnocchi with Veal Sausage and Tallegio Crema. Add an optional pasta course for an $8 supplement. Menu is offered Sunday, and Tuesday through Friday. Reservations available on Open Table or by calling (215) 271-2066. Menu is subject to change.

Stateside (1536 EPA) – Between their recent feature on Anthony Bourdain’s The Layover and winning Philadelphia Magazine’s highly coveted number one spot on the Top 50 Restaurants in the City, this restaurant has gone from a small place to enjoy an American-distilled beverage to a dining destination.

Tre Scalini (1915 EPA) – Tre Scalini has stood the test of time as an East Passyunk favorite and their special menu offers authentic traditional Italian menu items, with a mix of regular menu favorites and specials for the week. Their daily-changing special polenta dish, a favorite of diners, will be presented as Grilled Polenta with Broccoli Rabe. And if you want to totally lose your mind, opt for the Branzino "Aqua Pazza," (literally translated Mad Water) an authentic Italian dish of fish poached in aromatic broth. All regular menu items are available a la carte. Price does not include soft beverages. Menu is offered Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday, call (215) 551-3870 for reservations. BYOB

Will BYOB (1911 EPA) – Dinner at Will BYOB is part meal, part art museum visit thanks to artfully presented plates meant to delight all of the senses. Chef Christopher Kearse is offering highlights from his new seasonal winter menu, including favorites like Whole Roasted Miatake Mushroom with Ricotta, Madeira and Petit Herbs and Barnegat Light Scallops with Jerusalem Artichoke, Celery and Nasturtium. Add 3 Oysters with Yuzu and Saffron Sorbet for a $10 supplement. Special dinner menu is only available Wednesday and Thursday, so don’t wait to visit Open Table or call (215) 271-7683 for reservations. BYOB

For additional information please contact the restaurants directly or call EPABID at (215) 336-1455. Follow East Passyunk’s dining journey on Twitter at @epassyunkave and #passyunk.

About EPABID

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

Client News: Smokin' Betty's and Devil's Alley Host 6th Puppy Love Valentines Party

Smokin’ Betty’s and Devil’s Alley will host the 6th “Puppy Love Valentines Party,” on Tuesday, February 12, 2013 at the 23rd Street Armory (22 S. 23rd Street). This popular Valentine’s themed bash returns to celebrate the one you truly love, your pooch. Ardent animal lovers and upscale comfort food fans will enjoy a night on the town with their dogs. Evening highlights will include cocktails, appetizers by Smokin' Betty's and Devil’s Alley, sweet treats by Ms. Goody Cupcake, silent auction items, live music, dancing, puppy photo booth, red carpet, doggie swag bags and homeless pets available for adoption. Tickets are on sale now for $40. Puppy Love is open to those 21 and up. ALL funds raised will be donated to the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PSCPA). For more information, call (215) 922-6500 or visit www.smokinbettys.com .

Tails will be wagging over the delicious lineup of comfort food presented by Smokin’ Betty’s and Devil’s Alley, including Crab Cake Sliders, BBQ Chicken Salad Sliders, Mini Veggie Burgers and Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with Pita. At the bar, guests will enjoy Absolut, Jameson and Malibu cocktails, craft beer from Brooklyn Brewery, Yards Brewing Co. and Stoudts Brewery, and a selection of wine by the glass. All food and drink is included in the low ticket price. For a perfect end to the night, Ms Goody Cupcake (1838 East Passyunk Avenue) will tempt taste buds with Chocolate Covered Strawberry Cupcakes for humans and Banana Mutt Muffins for their four-legged friends.

Other evening highlights will include dancing and acoustic love songs by Jon Hagen Band, 30+ silent auction items, a pet photo booth and doggie swag bags.  Emmy winner, and host and contributor for “Out and About” on philly.com and soon to debut Pets with Papadakis,  Maria Papadakis will serve as master of ceremonies and hostess of the doggie red carpet. 

For those without a date, the PSPCA will match guests with eligible ‘bachelor and bachelorette’ dogs looking for a home. They will also present a Kitty Korner for those that prefer to flirt with feline adoptables. Finally, an animal behaviorist will provide consultations at a special “Dog House.” Puppy Love Valentines Party returns in 2013 after taking a “cat nap” in 2012 when the event outgrew the former space.

Since its inception in 2006, the event has attracted 1,000+ attendees and raised nearly $30,000 in ticket sales and in-kind donations. Susan Schlisman, owner of Smokin’ Betty’s and Devil’s Alley, created the event to raise funds for local animal shelters. Schlisman is a lifelong animal lover and advocate, and past PSPCA volunteer, who will attend this year with her Yorkie Sayde. Recommended attire for Puppy Love is dog park finest, ie. mart casual. Tickets are on sale now for $40 at Event Brite. Puppy Love is open to those 21 and up. ALL funds raised will be donated to the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PSCPA). For more information, call (215) 922-6500, visit www.smokinbettys.com, and follow @smokinbettys and @devilsalley215 on Twitter.

About Smokin’ Betty’s

Smokin’ Betty’s offers upscale American comfort food complimented by 16 rotating craft drafts, house crafted cocktails and daily menu additions paired with weekend brunch and daily happy hour. One of Philly’s favorite spots for burgers and BBQ ribs, Betty’s strives to push the envelope of “comfort food” and preparing plates that would truly make your Mama proud.

Smokin' Betty's is located in the heart of trendy Midtown Village and Center City District, located just three blocks from the Pennsylvania Convention Center, across the street from Jefferson Hospital and around the corner from two of Philadelphia's most historic theater districts. With close proximity to public transportation, major highways, rail lines, and parking it’s never been easier to visit!

About Devil’s Alley

Devil’s Alley, located just off Rittenhouse Square, bridges the gap between American comfort cuisine and a backyard barbecue, allowing for a delicious lunch, fun dinner or late night bite complimented by liquors from around the world, eight seasonal local drafts and addictive signature cocktails. Flames from the open kitchen sear classics from slow-smoked ribs to spice-rubbed ribeyes. Ingredients are of the highest quality, with local produce and high end meats. Service is prompt, knowledgeable and fun with attention to every detail of the dining experience. 

Client Video: Diner en Blanc Philadelphia

Our clients in white bring us a mid-winter "white" treat, and we're not talking about the snow. The gorgeous new video from the debut of Diner en Blanc Philadelphia was released earlier this week. Check out what blogs and media have called 2012's "party of the year." Stay tuned for information about Diner en Blanc 2013, coming in late spring. Tease, tease. 

Special thanks to Diner en Blanc organizes for including Aversa PR & Events LLC in this amazing event - and thank you for the wonderful shoutout in the video. 

 

Welcome to the Team! Dana Sclafani hired as new PR and Social Media Coordinator

Aversa PR & Events and Philly Loves Fun welcomes Dana Sclafani to the team as the new PR and Social Media Coordinator. Dana graduated Magna Cum Laude from Rowan University with a B.A. in Public Relations in 2012. During all four semesters at Rowan, she served as a member of the PRSSA chapter and involved herself in PRaction, PRSSA's student-run firm. She then served on the 2011-2012  executive board as VP of Advocacy, Philanthropy, and Ethics, winning the Best Community Service award at the 2012 National Conference. In addition, she won the highest senior award, Anthony J. Fulginiti's Gold Medallion for Excellence in Public Relations.

Now, a member of PRSA Philadelphia Chapter, she continues to expand her network and share her passion for Public Relations. During her free time she loves to volunteer, travel, watch the Phillies, snowboard, cook, try new things and meet new people.

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Aversa PR and Diner en Blanc Philadelphia Win First Place Award from PRSA Philadelphia

Job Listing: Aversa PR Seeks Social Media and Public Relations Assistant

Client Event: Brat Productions Presents Pop-up Pub Performance with The Diary of Lisa Q.

Did you hear what Lisa Q. did last night? Scandal!  Brat Productions, in association with Plays & Players, brings The Diary of Lisa Q to Plays & Players Theatre (1714 Delancey Place, Philadelphia, PA 19103) this Friday, January 18, 2013 at 6:00pm and Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 2:00pm and 6:00pm. This pop-up pub performance by and with members of Plays & Players overtakes the entire third floor space, including Quig’s Pub, Skinner Studio and Melissa Lynch Memorial Library. Like speed-dating a handful of bar tales, audience members will choose their own adventure by getting intimately involved with fictitious inhabitants of the pub. Brat Productions provides this opportunity for emerging artists to get involved and for established artists to take risks. ‘Diary’ is curated and hosted by Madi Distefano, Keith Conallen and the staff of Plays & Players’ Quig’s Pub.

Advance tickets are on sale for $5.00 at bratproductions.ticketleap.com/lisa-q/.  Show is open to ages 21 and up. For information please visit www.bratproductions.org.

In the vein of Conor McPherson’s monologues, as well as Madi Distefano’s own Popsicle’s Departure, 1989, local theater artists try their hand at depicting the notorious and shadowy story of Lisa Q, a fictional character with a real-life social media presence. Textual, sensual and served throughout the third floor of Plays and Players, this titillating exposé of the dirty personal secrets of a woman who hangs around a seemingly decadent late-night bar might just make you blush. Listen in as theater artists do what they spoof best: gossiping, reading from diaries or just possibly telling the whole truth as they heard it from Lisa herself.

Shaggy dog tales fill this parlour performance curated by Madi Distefano and written in collaboration with members of Plays & Players. Actors, directors and writers include Cubby Altobelli, Amanda Atkinson, Lena Barnard, Amanda Damron, Jacquie Goldfinger, TS Hawkins, Messapotamia Lefae, Shoshanna Ruth, Bradley Wrenn and Brat Resident Artist Brian Grace-Duff.

Job Listing: Aversa PR Seeks Social Media and Public Relations Assistant

Aversa PR & Events seeks tomorrow's social media and public relations superstar for a new part-time position.

Join our team as we work with a unique and exciting roster of clients, including restaurants, bars, entertainment, arts, culture, adventure, shopping, retail, small business and nonprofit. We have several exciting new clients starting in 2013 and we are expanding our team in preparation.

Please have a passion and interest in arts, adventure, entertainment, dining, small business and/or tourism. Flexible hours are a must, including daytime scheduled hours in office, plus occasional night and weekend hours at events.

Skills required: Social media, media writing, scheduling, administrative, blogging, marketing and more. We're seeking someone well versed on using Twitter and Facebook for businesses, that can take short brief snippets and spin them into social media gold. Position is new within a company less than one year old. Therefore we seek someone that can adapt quickly to changing situations while keeping eye on big picture and manage smallest details. Ability to work under pressure and quick deadlines is a must! Finally, we seek someone with enthusiasm, humor, passion for our clients and get it done attitude.

A candidate with a car is preferred, but if not must have reliable transportation that is easily accessible to South Philadelphia/East Passyunk, Rittenhouse, South Street and Midtown Village. Candidate must have ability to lift up to 35 lbs for occasional event-related materials. This is a starter contractor position for 15-30 hours a week with potential for growth as company expands.

Contact: Please send a resume, customized cover letter and social media links to [email protected]. No calls please. Position is available in early January 2013.

Aversa PR and Diner en Blanc Philadelphia Win First Place Award from PRSA Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America presented Aversa PR & Events and Diner en Blanc Philadelphia with a first place public relations award for the viral campaign that promoted the pop-up picnic in white. The award represents the first Pepperpot for Aversa PR & Events since its incorporation just nine months ago. Aversa PR & Events owner Kory Aversa was also recognized with an individual achievement award for chairing the chapter’s inaugural Nonprofit Resource Committee that matches nonprofits with public relations pros from the public sector. Ceremonies were held last evening, Wednesday, December 5, 2012 at the Arts Ballroom, 1324 Locust Street. The sold-out event recognized best in class PR campaigns and tactics from the Philadelphia region that were conducted in the last 12 months.

PEPPERPOT AWARD + DINER EN BLANC

Diner en Blanc Philadelphia was honored for the public relations campaign in the category of special events and observances, for events seven days or less. Diner en Blanc Philadelphia brought style and elegance to its Philadelphia debut on Thursday, August 23, 2012. After a summer of suspense, the secret pop-up location was revealed to be Swann Memorial Fountain in Logan Circle. The sold out viral picnic attracted 1,300 guests clad in white and toted their white tables, linens, china and décor.

Coverage for the event started in April of 2012 with two blog pieces that helped co-chairs to secure group leaders. In June of 2012, the organizing committee secured the services of Aversa PR & Events LLC. Together, the team put into motion a viral campaign between late June and late August that produced 47 blog stories and 10 traditional press stories. In response to the campaign, the waiting list grew to 4,000+ people. Online efforts landed Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia with 2,200+ followers on social media. On August 3, 2012, all 1,300 registration slots were sold out to people of all ages, races, nationalities, sexual orientations and backgrounds. Attendees hailed from counties as varied as the United States, Poland, France, Russia, Australia and Great Britain. The picnic bolstered Philadelphia’s reputation as a truly international city.

Day of and post event coverage produced approximately 10 million audience impressions from at least 32 traditional press stories (including 19 stories and mentions on CBS, FOX, NBC and ABC) and 25 blog stories. Thousands of photos filled flooded Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and Yelp. Philadelphia’s public space received the attention it deserved with hundreds of photos and mentions in 50 blog and traditional press stories. Philadelphia Magazine’s HughE Dillon declared, “I think we have a new event space that is at the center of everything.” Due to the tremendous success, the city of Philadelphia and Dîner en Blanc International have already given the green light for another event in Philadelphia in 2013.

INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD + KORY AVERSA

Aversa PR & Events Owner Kory Aversa was honored with an the “President’s Award” during the pre-ceremony for individual achievement winners. Chapter president Blair Kahora Cardinal recognized Aversa for chairing the chapter’s first Nonprofit Resource Committee. The new committee was formed to connect chapter members from the public sector with members (and non-members) in the nonprofit community. Activities also were designed to provide educational and social opportunities for nonprofit professionals to enhance their public relations and social media skills. Activities in the first year included a sold-out speed networking event, a holiday happy hour mixer, a collection drive for members to “Adopt a Senior,” and a public service project at MANNA (coming on December 19, 2012).

ABOUT AVERSA PR

Aversa PR & Events was founded in March of 2012 by owner Kory Aversa. The new company’s official mission is to create big buzz for arts, culinary, entertainment, small business and nonprofit clients that specialize in quality, one-of-a-kind, meaningful products or services. Services focus on public relations, media relations, social media, event planning and nonprofit development. This new public relations company was founded to promote the very things that Aversa loves about Philadelphia – and modeled his business model after subject matter from his website Phillylovesfun.com.

Aversa PR’s client roster has expanded in nine months to include 20+ clients, such as Diner en Blanc Philadelphia, Fly School Circus Arts, East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District, Eviama Life Spa, Ms Goody Cupcake, Charm City Movement Arts, Smokin’ Betty’s, Devil’s Alley, Chhaya Café, Bitar’s, Alphabet Academy, 2B Groomed Barbering Studio, Headhunters Hair Design, Acorn Dental Associates, Brat Productions, City of Hope Philadelphia, City Year Greater Philadelphia, Tashan and Tiffin. New clients are on the way for 2013, with announcements coming in late December of 2012.

Owner Kory Aversa, 39, is originally from Utica, New York, where he graduated with a Bachelors of Arts from Utica College of Syracuse University. He majored in Public Relations with a minor in Political Science. Since moving to the Philadelphia region in 1998, Aversa has worked for and on behalf of some of the region’s largest and most interesting causes, including Philadelphia Senior Center, Please Touch Museum, Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, Epilepsy Foundation of EPA, Children’s Healthcare Foundation of South Jersey and others. He has served on the board of directors for Delaware Valley Legacy Fund, Plays & Players Theatre, Safeguards and People-Pet Partnership.

Aversa resides in South Philadelphia with his shelter dog Buster Brown. They live just off of the East Passyunk Avenue business corridor where they spend much of their business and personal time.