On September 15th The Institute of Contemporary Art kicked off its newest exhibit showcasing Rudi Gernreich's fashion creations of the 1960's and 70's, which include topless bathing suits and micro-miniskirts (cue the chorus of men cheering). After the opening reception, guests headed over to the Zellerbach Theatre of the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts for a concert given by noted singer/composer John Cale, formerly of the Velvet Underground. This ICA exhibit, Rudi Gernreich: Fashion Will Go Out of Fashion runs from September 15th to November 11th, 2001.

Inliquid.com and The Art Biz hosted the second annual art auction at the performance garage of Jeanne Ruddy Dance on September 22nd. DJs Crystal Clear and Cozmic Cat provided music throughout the silent auction and later, at the after party at Ruba Hall. Profits from this event will benefit the community-based cultural education center, Taller Puertorriqueno's, children's art programs. Over 75 local artists and 60 businesses donated items to be sold at auction.

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts held its 3rd annual wine auctions, to the delight of area winelovers. The event took place at the beautiful Museum at Broad and Cherry Streets on September 21st. Sotheby's humorous and able auctioneer, C. Hugh Hildesley, conducted the sale of some very rare and highly sought-after international wines. After viewing and tasting the lots of wine, bidders competed to see who would take home these prized items. A gourmet dinner was served in the rotunda, surrounded by gorgeous works of art.

Mercedes Benz sponsored a test-driving promotion in Philadelphia to hype its new 2001 C-class. Their slogan, "Live. A lot," in this case led to Swanky Bubbles on September 20th. The idea is to get people out to drive the cars by offering a free appetizer with their meal. Good for the restaurant, good for Mercedes. If you want to buy a Mercedes-Benz, then it's good for you too.

On Monday, August 27 the Mann Center for Performing Arts celebrated its 25th anniversary with conductor Zubin Mehta and the Israel Philharmonic in an All-Beethoven performance - 25 years after their Mann Center debut! The Mann offers diverse, world-class entertainment and nothing captures the spirit of that better than this internationally acclaimed orchestra. After the concert, guests gathered under the stars to watch the fireworks and top off the evening with a cake and champagne birthday celebration.