Fête Philly legend Rocky Balboa at South Philly Bar and Grill's Rocky Fest.

Couples Yoga
Friday, January 11, 8 p.m.
Reconnect with your loved one at Synergy by Jasmine in Manayunk this weekend, where they’re offering a couples yoga class to help reignite that passionate spark and get in shape at the same time. A unique alternative to your typical dinner-and-a-movie date nights, the 90-minute class teaches students breathing exercises, massage techniques, popular yoga postures, and partner meditations in a stress-free and relaxing environment. 3901 B Bldg. Main St., Manayunk, 610-325-1177

Rocky Fest
Saturday, January 12, 11 a.m.-2 a.m.
Join the South Philly Bar and Grill to celebrate the 36th anniversary of the release of Rocky, starring Philly’s own Rocky Balboa. The Italian Market eatery will screen all six Rocky movies in reverse from 11 a.m.-9 p.m., followed by an iconic music and video tribute by DJ Perry Angelozzi. Enjoy Rocky-inspired food and drinks, such as the Italian Meats Pizza and Balboa Punch, while participating in trivia and lookalike contests. 1235 E. Passayunk Ave., 215-334-3300

Wine and Cheese Pairing
Sunday, January 13, 2 p.m.
Become a wine and cheese connoisseur at Crossing Vineyards and Winery. For $35 per person, guests can learn the proper way to select the perfect cheese paring for any wine. Students will be able to taste-test wines and cheeses to determine their favorites. Get tickets on crossingvineyards.com. 1853 Wrightstown Rd., Washington Crossing, 215-493-6500

Baked Sunless Tanning offers clients high-end airbrush tanning services in an elegant environment.

Maintaining a healthy, sun-kissed glow is essential for brightening up your mood and appearance in these cold winter months. Enter Baked Sunless Tanning with an array of luxe airbrushing services.

Whether you stop by the Queens Village or Center City locations, you’ll get sun-kissed skin in under 20 minutes from a certified airbrush technician. All sessions begin with a toner, which adjusts pH levels while soothingly exfoliating skin. After the airbrushing is complete, HydroFirm is applied to revitalize the skin with essential vitamins and nutrients.  

In addition to the Classic Airbrush Tanning package, which offers a heady blend of vitamins and antioxidants to enhance your gorgeous glow, owner and master tanner Adrienne Ritchie also offers multiple organic options. Choose the Organic Airbrush Tan and obtain that exotic look after waiting just six-eight hours for development. 

For clients in a hurry to get flawlessly tanned skin, opt for the new Organic Quickie. The all-natural formula only requires a half-hour wait before achieving the perfect tone, ideal for those last-minute date nights and impromptu adventures. Don’t want to go out in the cold winter weather? Baked now offers no-mess in-home services, too. 815 S. 4th St., Queens Village; 1425 Arch St., Center City; 610-570-7132

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OPA, 1311 Sansom St., Center City, 215-545-0170

 

OPA, 1311 Sansom St., Center City, 215-545-0170

 

OPA, 1311 Sansom St., Center City, 215-545-0170

 

OPA, 1311 Sansom St., Center City, 215-545-0170

 

OPA, 1311 Sansom St., Center City, 215-545-0170

 

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The delicious and healthy Greek-inspired fare at Sansom Street’s chic OPA is sure to keep healthy New Year’s resolutions on track. Start with perfectly portioned appetizers like the zucchini chips with Tzatziki sauce, or the cucumber quinoa salad. Notable mains include the vegetable pasta with house-made fettuccine, root vegetables, sage, and almonds; or a stuffed pepper and tomato dish that comprises rice, beef, and braised greens. Adventurous eaters will want to try the whole fish entrée, grilled and served head to tail with Horta and lemon potatoes.

End your meal with loukoumades, Greek beignets with walnuts, Merenda, spiced bananas, and a honey cinnamon drizzle; the daily-changing house-churned ice cream; or a baklava that layers walnuts, honey, and figs between flaky phyllo. Wash it all down with specialty cocktails like the Antho, which combines cucumber vodka, lemon, and dill. For a Mediterranean twist on the margarita, sip the Xinouli, with a mix of tequila, VeeV, lemon juice, runny honey, and cava.

If it’s a more relaxed atmosphere you’re after, stop by OPA’s new Drury Beer Garden. The outdoor space—which is heated for winter (seasonal hours: Fridays and Saturdays, 8:30 PM)—offers a wide range of draft, canned, and bottled beer, as well as wine and drinks like hot chocolate with vanilla vodka and hazelnut liquor. Grab a table for six or more and order a case of beer while snacking on pretzel rings, chili garlic chicken tenders, and s’mores. 1311 Sansom St., Center City, 215-545-0170

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The twin-turbo, 4-liter V8 produces 520 horsepower, helping the aluminum space frame go from 0 MPH to 60 MPH in 3.9 seconds.

Photographs Courtesy Audi

 

The vehicle achieves 15-city MPG and 26-highway MPG.

Photographs Courtesy Audi

 

The cabin is infused with a plethora of carbon fiber including the gear selector, seatbacks, dash, and center console.

Photographs Courtesy Audi

 

With a massive grille that dominates the fascia and front air intakes, the larger 21-inch 5-star bladed rims and matching aluminum optic side view mirrors, and quad exhaust, this is not a typical A8 but an “S” driven by the very best.

Photographs Courtesy Audi

 

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Audi aficionados knew exactly what was expected when the German purveyor of luxury cars announced their new line of “S” performance vehicles including the S6, S7 and S8, which is the company’s four-door breadwinner in terms of power output and performance. But how could that be with the fierce and mighty V10 being supplanted for a smaller, more efficient twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8? It’s called German evolution.

Audi changed degrees with enhancements to their renowned quattro all-wheel drive technology, presented fascinating new products like the Q7, R8, and A7, enriched their interior cabins from an already stellar platform, and introduced magnificent engineering technology to ensure that the driving experience is pleasurable and safe. Now, the 2013 S8 is a new topic of conversation. The twin-turbo, 4-liter V8 produces 520 horsepower, helping the aluminum space frame go from 0 MPH to 60 MPH in 3.9 seconds. Mate the powerplant with Audi’s 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with manual shift mode, and the vehicle achieves 15-city MPG and 26-highway MPG. Cylinder on Demand also aids in this mileage by transitioning eight cylinders to four cylinders when full power is not required. For example, fuel reduction at 55 MPH is 12%.

As for the interior, I felt special to say the least as the 22-way, diamond cross-stitched sport seats massaged me pleasantly. My mocha leather cabin was infused with a plethora of carbon fiber to intensify the level of craftsmanship of this German touring sedan, including the gear selector, seatbacks, dash, and center console. As I gripped the thick 3-spoke leather wheel and ignited the red Start/Stop button, the needles on the gauges rotated, the LCD screen rose from its embedded position, and the acoustic lenses from Bang & Olufsen’s big-ticket, concert-themed sound system emerged out of the dash. LED lights can also brighten up the cabin when needed.

Audi Connect, launched in the “A” cars, uses an array of various multi-media technologies along with Audi’s Multi Media Interface (MMI) for driver convenience. MMI is one of the most advanced telematics systems in the auto industry. When inputting the address in the Google Earth navigation system—which displays from the aforementioned LCD screen—superior visual computing takes over and guidance is enhanced by displaying satellite and 3D images of buildings and places of interest, as well as “Street View.” Online searches also come from Google, just as on your smartphone or laptop, and you receive weather, gas prices, RSS news feeds, and sports scores. Speaking of your smartphone, up to eight devices can connect wirelessly and search the web by way of the S8’s T-Mobile-provided hotspot. The first six months of hotspot ownership are free, with a separate monthly fee charged thereafter.

Once you reach your destination and step out to look back at the vehicle, you know you have properly arrived. With a massive grille that dominates the fascia and front air intakes, the larger 21-inch 5-star bladed rims and matching aluminum optic side view mirrors, and quad exhaust, this is not a typical A8 but an “S” driven by the very best. All you need to justify your $110,000 purchase.

Philly Power Yoga amps up their offerings in 2013.

Restore, rejuvenate, and re-power in 2013 with Philly Power Yoga. The Rittenhouse Square all-in-one yoga, Pilates, massage, and acupuncture studio is promoting healthy living in the New Year by offering an array of new classes and exclusive pricing for new members.

In addition to commitment-free first-month membership options for $50 per person in January, Philly Power Yoga is introducing its students to the Budding Yogi Beginner Yoga Workshop Series in January. Whether you’re a new yogi or an expert, this workshop will help to strengthen your individual practice with three in-depth sessions. The final class in this series is a candlelit workout that will benefit health and wellness programs at the Friere Charter School. The studio will also be offering special events and classes available for bridal showers, alumni gatherings, baby showers, and more in 2013.

What else makes Philly Power Yoga stand out from other yoga spots and gyms? “The style of yoga we teach is the perfect combination of strength, sweat, and spirituality, while having a lot of fun,” says owner and yoga master, Steve Gold. “What we are offering is a community of like-minded people who want to get together and take good care of themselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually.” 2016 Walnut St., 2nd Fl., 215-636-9642

HQ Nightclub hosts a five-day New Year's Eve bash (December 27-31).

HQ Nightclub
HQ Nightclub at Revel in Atlantic City will host a can't-miss five-day (December 27-31) New Year’s Eve extravaganza featuring an all-star musical line-up of Sebastian Ingrosso, Axwell, Alesso, Otto Knows, DJ Kaskade, and DJ Bambi. DJ Tiësto, will host an after-hours event at HQ following his Ovation Hall performance on New Year’s Eve. For set times, tickets (starting at $125), and more information, visit revelnightlife.com. 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, 609-345-2211

Steven Starr Restaurants
Restaurateur Steven Starr is offering an array of New Year’s Eve options at all of his famous Philadelphia eateries. From an a la carte menu with special items at Barclay Prime, to a lobster extravaganza at Route 6, and a tasting menu at Talula’s Garden, each of Starr’s 19 restaurants boasts regular seating times and delicious food to ring in 2013. For more information on the NYE options available, visit starr-restaurant.com.

Ristorante Panorama
Front Street’s Ristorante Panorama is extending an exclusive, one-time seating on New Year’s Eve that spotlights a specially crafted menu. For $85 per ticket, guests get a four-course meal and a complimentary toast at midnight. Antipasto misto, tortelloni di ricotta e aragosta, pesce della sera, and tiramisu are among the delicious items available. Reservations required; seatings only 8:30-9:30 PM. 14 N. Front Street, 215-922-7800

The Pyramid Club
Welcome 2013 in style at The Pyramid Club’s black-tie “Celebrity Style” Eighth-Annual New Year's Eve Gala (doors, 8:45 PM; 9 PM start time). For $140 per ticket, attendees will enjoy a five-hour open bar, buffet stations, butlered hors d’oeuvres, a midnight Champagne toast, and a view of the midnight fireworks show from 500 feet above the ground. With multiple rooms to enjoy a variety of food, music, and views, it’s no surprise that this event has sold out the past seven years, so act now. For more information or tickets, visit philadelphianewyearseve.com/pyramidclub or call 215-701-1960. 1735 Market St., 215-567-6510

SugarHouse Casino
A two-hour open bar, butlered hors d’oeuvres, a midnight Champagne toast, fabulous fireworks views, and a live performance by Funkybone Horns Band awaits at SugarHouse Casino on New Year's Eve (10 PM). For more information or to purchase tickets ($65), visit sugarhouserocks.com. 1001 N. Delaware Ave., 877-477-3715

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10 Arts, Avenue of the Arts, 215-523-8273

 

Old Homestead Steakhouse, One Borgata Way, 609-317-1000

 

Hotel Monaco, 433 Chestnut St., 215-925-2111

 

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Family Gingerbread Delight
Saturday, December 22, 1-3 PM
Make a haute gingerbread house with the little ones this weekend at Eric Ripert's 10 Arts. In addition to providing the materials to craft your keepsake treat, the event also includes holiday sweets, a hot chocolate station, a visit from Santa, a Champagne bar for the adults, and chef’s attire for the kids. One adult and one child, $125; $50 for each additional person. 10 Avenue of the Arts, 215-523-8273

Feast of the Seven Fishes
Monday, December 24-Tuesday, December 25
Old Homestead Steakhouse in the beautiful Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa invites you to join them for a holiday feast. Rated by Zagat as AC’s top restaurant, Old Homestead Steakhouse has created a mouth-watering menu featuring yellowtail crudo, baccala, seared shrimp and scallops, lobsters, mussels, and clams. For $85 per person, diners will enjoy this prix-fixe menu, complete with lemon sorbet and Italian iron cookies for dessert. Reservations required. One Borgata Way, 609-317-1000

Stay in Style Package
Through February 28
Located in the heart of Old City, Hotel Monaco is a fashion fan's paradise, with brightly colored décor and an inviting feel. This season, they’re offering a Stay in Style package that allows guests to enjoy special pricing on the hotel’s accommodations, as well as perks from area boutiques. Local shops participating include Town Home, Knit Wit, Duke & Winston, and Arcadia Boutique. Book now (packages start at $152) at monaco-philadelphia.com. 433 Chestnut St., 215-925-2111

The Art Shop at Moore College celebrates a decade of unique merchandise.

As 2012 comes to a close, help The Art Shop at Moore College toast their ten-year anniversary one last time. Used as an outlet for Moore alumnae and current students to sell their unique pieces of art over the last decade, The Art Shop is the perfect place to finish holiday shopping.

The eclectic store offers an array of exclusive, ever-changing creations, including hand-crafted jewelry, ceramics, paintings, and apparel. For those who can’t make it to the 20th street location, the online store showcases most of the artists’ amazing designs, and offers both shipping and in-store pickup. And if you need a break from the crowds after holiday shopping, stop by the Galleries at Moore and check out the inventive exhibitions on display, free of charge.

The Art Shop is open 11 AM-7 PM, Monday through Friday, and Saturday 11 AM-5 PM. 20th St. and The Parkway, 215-965-8586

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Reaching an Ulterior Realm, blown glass, mirror, bronze, 2010; Joanna Manousis.

 

Inverted Vanitas, Glass and Mixed Media, 2010; Joanna Manousis.

 

Lace, Fused Murrine/ Water-Jet Cut Sheet Glass, 2007; Joanna Manousis.

 

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Starting Tuesday, December 18 works from Joanna Manousis’ solo exhibit,“Presence in the Past” will be on view at The Philadelphia Art Alliance.

The British-born artist currently resides in Columbus, Ohio, and is most known for her historical inspirations and unique uses of cast and blown glass, as well as her non-traditional combinations of mirrors, glass, and ordinary objects. Manousis’ most famous pieces can be seen in permanent collections all over the world, including the Corning Glass Museum in Corning, NY.

The “Presence in the Past” showcase will feature Joanna’s most recent pieces, which bring objects to life through physical and metaphorical exaggeration. A gallery talk and tour, followed by an opening reception, kick the exhibit off on Tuesday (5-8 PM). The exhibit will then be open to the public through January 28, 2013. 251 S. 18 St., 215-545-4302

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Last week, C. Wonder hosted a VIP event celebrating the opening of their newest location in King of Prussia. Walking through the new C. Wonder is certainly the ultimate shopping experience. All of the store's seven separate rooms are inspired by a different period in America, and each is equipped with eye-catching displays and perfectly arranged products. Visit StreetsAndStripes.com for more visuals starting tomorrow (Thursday).

For more on the new C. Wonder, see what founder Chris Burch has to say>>

Chaucee Stillman of StreetsAndStripes.com is a freelance photographer and blogger covering life and style in the city of Philadelphia. She writes for the culturally aware reader covering topics such as fashion events, lifestyle stories, and interviews with Philly's creatives. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @chaucee to stay updated on happenings in the city!