Author: HughE Dillon

Chronicling Philadelphia

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Around Town With HughE

About Last Night: The Fabulous Franklin Institute Gala, Stylish Scientists and Supporters

Jim Dever, Bank of America and Dr. Lynn Dever were co-chairs of the event, which attended by a record number of guests, and raised over a million dollars.

Last night, the Franklin Institute celebrated its 200th year, The Franklin Institute Awards pays tribute to our namesake and America’s first citizen scientist, Benjamin Franklin, by honoring the greatest minds in science, engineering, and industry, through their boundless creativity and passion for discovery.

2024 Franklin Institute Awards Laureates
David A. Weitz, Ph.D., Harvard University
Lisa Su, Ph.D., AMD
Gabriela S. Schlau-Cohen, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Paula T. Hammond, Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Janet F. Werker, Ph.D., O.C., FRSC, The University of British Columbia
Paul D. N. Hebert, Ph.D., FRSC, O.C., University of Guelph
Robert M. Metcalfe, Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin
Joanne Chory, Ph.D., The Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Mary C. Boyce, Ph.D., Columbia University

Morgan and Nick Morris of Manhattan

Spring Gala Season is in full bloom, with events happening nearly every night, all for a good cause.

Beverly Deavens and Gregory E. Deavens President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross

Since its inception, The Franklin Institute Awards Program has honored the most influential scientists, engineers, and inventors who have significantly advanced science and technology. The roster of more than 2,000 laureates includes luminaries such as Nikola Tesla, Marie and Pierre Curie, Orville Wright, Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, Jane Goodall, Stephen Hawking, and more recently, vaccine pioneers Kizzmekia Corbett, Drew Weissman, and Katalin Karikó. Notably, 125 of these laureates have also received the Nobel Prize.

Jackie and Eric Kraeutler
Hugh Stravick, Senior Vice President, Client & Community Relations · PNC and Kristin Stravick

Hugh and I have a special bond, cause I think we’re the only two in Philly with the same name, who see each other regularly; and on occasion we see Hugh Lavery. SVP of Govt Affairs, Jefferson Health.

Dara Oliver and Doug Oliver, PECO
Dr. Nina Radcliff, Board Certified Anesthesiologist Orange is the new black it’s better than that actually in sequins ! and Anthony Murray, my fellow bird watching friend.
Andrea Freundlich, Jerry Wind and Barbara Eberlein
Kimberly Doolittle, Esq and Lindsay Craig exploring the more than life size heart inside the museum.
Dr. Joan O’Shea, Neurosurgeon and Amany Mansour Awad, Founder, Board Member at Chemistry Rx |Founder and CEO at Bloop
Larry Dubinski is the President & CEO of The Franklin Institute greets guests as they arrive at the Franklin Institute

“The 200-year legacy of The Franklin Institute Awards stands as a shining example of our dedication to honoring those who have made significant strides in advancing scientific knowledge,” said Larry Dubinski, President and CEO of The Franklin Institute. “In this milestone year, the Awards Program will celebrate the extraordinary achievements of our 2024 laureates and serve as a reminder of The Franklin Institute’s rich history and its ongoing commitment to shaping the future of science and technology.

Bonnie Grant, PCMA Greater Philadelphia Chapter, Laura Swartz, Chief Executive Officer and President · World Affairs Council of Philadelphia and Donna Farrell, senior vice president of Corporate Communications for Independence Blue Cross

Dr. Thanuja Hamilton and Nicholas Perugino (r) enjoying the pre awards reception.

Vishal Patel and Kernika Gupta – Director – Independence Blue Cross

Additional photos from the event can be seen on CBSPhilly, as well as Main Line Today in the June issue, and Philly Style Magazine in the July Issue.

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Around Town With HughE

Inaugural: UArts Music on the Square, More Dates

UArts President Kerry Walk, PhD, introduces James Brandon Lewis at the Inaugural Music on the Square

UArts kicked off their new music series UArts Music on The Square earlier this month at the Philadelphia Art Alliance at the University of the Arts on Rittenhouse Square with a concert by James Brandon Lewis & Neil Podgurski Molecular Systematic Music Duets

After the concert there was a reception with cocktails and charcuterie
David Kelly, Vicky Hall. Tom Cardosi and Andrew Kleeman, Parents & Family Council UArts
Andrew Pack, Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Harriet and Larry Weiss, UArts supporters

Music on the Square has two more evening performances scheduled for you to enjoy.

Miranda Powell, Director of Campus Events and Scheduling UArts and Jean Murphy, Manager for Annual Fund & Leadership Giving, Office of Advancement

Join University of the Arts at the historic Philadelphia Art Alliance for a spring concert series featuring The No Name Pops. Each evening performance showcases a unique program presented by this new, versatile ensemble.

Carol Graney, VP for Academic Affairs, UArts and Daniel Tucker, Program Director, Museum Studies UArts

Paula Holloway and The No Name Pops Sing Gershwin and Porter
Friday, April 26
Doors and bar open at 5:30 p.m.
Performance begins at 6 p.m., and a reception will follow.

Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts
251 S. 18th Street

Join us for an evening of musical brilliance as the No Name Pops Jazz Quintet, which includes professors and a professor emeritus from the University of the Arts, pay homage to the timeless tunes of George Gershwin and Cole Porter. From the soul stirring melodies of “Our Love Is Here To Stay” to the toe-tapping rhythms of “Anything Goes,” immerse yourself in a journey through the golden era of American music, alongside your No Name Pops! Tickets $50, $35

David and Vicky Kelly with Andrew Kleeman
Fashionistas Tom and Jamie Cardosi
Audrey Ellis and Jonathan Fineberg, Founding Director, PhD in Creativity UArts

Eddie Bruce & The No Name Pops Sing Anthony Newley
Thursday, May 9
Doors and bar open at 5:30 p.m.
Performance begins at 6 p.m., and a reception will follow.

Philadelphia Art Alliance at University of the Arts
251 S. 18th Street

Experience a tribute to Anthony Newley, curated by featured vocalist Eddie Bruce, with The No Name Pops Jazz Quintet, which includes professors from University of the Arts. With fervor and authenticity, Bruce channels Newley’s wit and ingenuity and leaves audiences captivated. Featuring iconic renditions of “Pure Imagination” and “Feeling Good,” this concert honors the enduring legacy of one of show business’ most remarkable and underrated songwriters. See you at Music on the Square

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Around Town With HughE

Opera Philadelphia Fetes David B. Devan

Opera Philadelphia President David B. Devan was honored during a special event at the 23rd Street Armory March 9, 2024, the longtime leader of Opera Philadelphia will step down in June 2024,  at the end of the season.

David B. Devan and husband Rev David A. Dubbeldam

Eddie and Rachel Eitches
David Levy and Frank Luzi, Founder & President at Luzi Media, who’s client is Opera Philadelphia, where he was the VP of Marketing for nearly 12 years

375 guests attended, raising over $700,000 for Opera Philadelphia’s New Works

Susan Long, Andy Szabo, Ivy and Gary Kaplan (the 2 NY Giants fans walked in the 2023 5k Eagles Autism Challenge. last year to celebrate their beautiful grandchildren, Ari, and Davina. This years walk is coming up May 18.)
Leslie Miller and Richard Worley, philanthropists who recently made an incredible generous gift to the Kimmel Center at Ensemble Arts Philly, which will be going toward renaming the home of the Philadelphia Orchestra, currently, Verizon Hall.
The officially re-dedication of Verizon Hall to Marian Anderson Hall will take place on June 8, in the afternoon. That evening is the 2nd annual Great Stages Gala and concert, and the first performance in the newly renamed hall.
Jamie Ray-Leonetti
Anita and James Dupree
Susan Long, Andy Szabo, Ivy and Gary Kaplan

Thanks to team photographer Andre Flewellen for photographing this event for PhillyChitChat

Stephen Klasko and Sarah Marshall

Board chair Steven Klasko told WHYY ‘s Peter Crimmins, “He [Devan] literally created a company in step with Philadelphia, created a very urban, new wave opera company”, “We have become one of the leaders in adding new American operas to the repertoire.”

The very talented John Jarboe of The Bearded Ladies, emceed and entertained for his long time friend, and his friends.

The company created 18 new operas during Devan’s tenure, which have subsequently been produced over 330 times by other companies in 10 countries. Opera Philadelphia also created a series of highly produced operatic films as part of its pandemic-inspired digital service. The soundtrack for one of them, “Soldier Songs,” was nominated for a Grammy Award.

John Jarboe with an epic piano hat
Joshua Blue

Devan was serenaded by vocalists who’ve performed with Opera
Philadelphia including Will Liverman (’10 Days in a Madhouse’), John Holiday (‘We Shall Not Be Moved’), Daniela Mack (‘Carmen’), Ashley Marie Robillard and Joshua Blue (‘La bohème’)

Ashley Robillard
Stephen Klasko, Former president of Thomas Jefferson University flew into town from his Florida home, with long time friend Sarah Marshall, philanthropist and Board Member · USAFA Foundation, HelpUsAdopt.org, Pennsylvania Ballet, Opera Philadelphia
Jan Shaeffer and Jane Pepper, Chairman at Longwood Gardens Inc., formerly the president of Philadelphia Horticultural Society

Devan’s last full production with Opera Philadelphia, will be Puccini’s ‘Madame Butterfly’ for his grand finale (April 26 to May 5).

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Opening Night Reception: Wilma Theater

Opening Night Reception: The Good Person of Setzuan at the Wilma Theater; On stage through April 21.

On April 5, Wilma Theater celebrated the opening of The Good Person of Setzuan with a reception for subscribers, supporters and friends. Something they do for every opening, which is so nice. The guests mingle with each other as well as with creative leaders of the Wilma and the play they are about to see.

Wilma Theater Managing Director Leigh Goldenberg, Justin Jain, Director and Yury Urnov, co-artisitc director The Good Person of Setzuan
Eva and Michael Leeds, Carl Sheingold and Janice Madden

The play was written by the German dramatist Bertolt Brecht, in collaboration with Margarete Steffin and Ruth Berlau. In Brecht’s play, Shen Te, a kind-hearted prostitute, struggles to maintain her goodness in a harsh world where survival often requires compromise and self-interest. When she inherits a sum of money, she uses it to open a tobacco shop and help those in need. However, her altruism is quickly taken advantage of, forcing her to create a ruthless alter ego, Shui Ta, to protect herself and her business interests.

Javier Mojica is the House Manager of The Wilma Theater
Jessica Johnson and Jaylene Clark Owens
Kevaughn Harvey and Gayle Smith
Jen Bohnenberger and Cat Bohnenberger
Debbie Fluck and Zoe Goldberg Smothern
Joan and Bill Goldstein
Donnell Powell and John Myers
Bash, Kel Fleming and Dezi

Theater goers in the Good Karma Cafe at the Wilma Theater waiting for the show to start. The Good Person of Setzuan at the Wilma Theater; On stage through April 21. INFO here.

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HBO’s Task Force, Spotted: Kaley Cuoco; Sting & Andrea Bocelli Partying in Philly

Philly Continues to Be Exciting this week. Hope to spot some WWE Superstars and their fans. Send me tips. See you out and about, Socially Yours, HughE

Kaley Cuoco Instagram

Actor Kaley Cuoco (The Big Bang Theory and The Flight Attendant) was hinting to her followers over the past few months that she was headed to Pennsylvania, and now we know why. Her partner, actor Tom Pelphrey is filming the HBO series Task Force along with Mark Ruffalo, from writer and produced by “Mare of Easttown’s” Brad Ingelsby and directed and produced by Jeremiah Zagar, who last directed Hustle with Adam Sandler.

Task Force filming inside Ralph’s Restaurant a few weeks ago

Task Force: Takes place in the working-class Philadelphia suburbs and follows an FBI agent at the helm of a special task force. His goal is to put an end to a string of drug house robberies led by an unwary householder.

Deadline reports this week Task Force (the working title) has added five more actors in recurring: Raphael Sbarge (Once Upon a Time), Mickey Sumner (Snowpiercer), Brian Goodman (Fatal Attraction), Elvis Nolasco (Godfather of Harlem), and Colin Bates (American Rust).

Kaley Cuoco and Tom Pelphrey celebrated their daughter Matilda’s 1 year birthday in Philly last week with a Minnie Mouse themed birthday party according to People magazine.

On Tuesday 4/16 Chichester Ave will close between Boothwyn and Mill Roads. From 7pm through 6am according to @upperchichester (Inquirer) Chichester Avenue will be temporarily closed at night due to a project by HBO.

Happy Birthday to a very generous women who treated about 150 of her friends to one of the best birthday parties they’ll ever attend. The Miller Theater on the Avenue of the Arts (Broad Street) was the scene of a Tuscan Village in Italy, as the theater was transformed with elaborate decorations, over the top flowers flown in from California and even a tiled roofed villa with a full moon shining down, to set the scene.

Guests dined on Garces‘ catering, as they were serenaded by friend Andrea Bocelli, the Italian tenor, singer-songwriter, who flew in for the occasion. If that wasn’t enough, there was a surprise performance by Sting who joined Bocelli singing a very moving Amazing Grace. Sting stayed on to sing highlights of his career including my favorite “Every Step You Take.”

I wasn’t able to get a photo of the performers, but I caught their cars leaving the theater around 9:15pm. (it was drizzling, cold, I was hungry. and had no idea what time they were going to leave. I lucked out as I circled the block when a spot opened across from Latimer Street and was able to get these shots and a video. Ahh the old days I’d be out there hustling harder, lol)

https://www.instagram.com/phillychitchat

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Around Town With HughE

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Spent Easter in Philly

This is not an April Fools Day Joke. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce flew into Philly airport ie Atlantic Aviation, on Easter morning at about 9AM. They presumably headed to Jason and Kylie’s house in Haverford to spend the day with family.
The “End Game” couple then headed to the Four Seasons Hotel to spend the night (When touring Taylor always stays at the Ritz, but Travis, who was last in town for his brothers retirement announcement, stayed at the Four Season’s. When she toured last summer she did have JG George stay open late for dinner after the Saturday night concert), They flew out this morning around 10am.

The final destination today is Hollywood for the IHeart Radio Awards show tonight; their plane touches down around 12:30pm pacific time. Taylor is leading in the nominations. Tonight might be their official Red Carpet debut together. They did appear on the gold carpet at the Gucci after party on Oscar Night, but that was for a private event.

Today Show: This morning did you catch Kylie Kelce on The Today Show chatting about Eagles Autism Foundation this morning . Such a good interview, lots of Jason chat as well, she is such a supporter of his -All cards are on the table, he can do whatever he sets his mind to. He is so talented she told Hoda & Savanah. Kylie did not mention Taylor or Travis’ Easter dinner appearance. All that was mentioned of loved up couple was it was fun to see them together.

Then everyone headed out to the plaza where more about the work Kylie and the Eagles do on behalf of the Eagles Autism Foundation.

April Is Autism Awareness Month and the Philadelphia Eagles are inviting fans, arts and culture enthusiasts, autism supporters, and the community to experience a new gallery adorned exclusively with Eagles-themed masterpieces. The Eagles’ art gala, “Green Is the Heart Inspired,” will run from Thursday, April 11, to Sunday, April 14, at the award-winning Arch Enemy Arts gallery in Philly’s historic Old City District.

Speaking of former Eagles Players.

The Ertz Family Foundation (Julie and Zach Ertz) will host a benefit concert for House of Hope featuring Matt Quinn of indie rock band Mt. Joy, and surprise guests, at Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia on Friday, April 12.

Tickets went on sale today exclusively at brooklynbowl.com/philadelphia. A preshow package including a meet and greet, cocktails, light bites, bowling and photo opportunities, are also available.

House of Hope, a project supported by The Ertz Family Foundation, provides education, technology, and nutrition products and services to combat the ongoing food insecurity, gun violence, and drug use Philadelphia is experiencing.

Breakthrough’s Annual Spring Soirée 2024
Only 50 Tickets Left. Come Through...I will be photographing this event.

After a pause that left many yearning for its delightful aromas and communal vibrancy, the much-loved Red Gravy Cook-Off is making a triumphant return, stirring excitement among food enthusiasts and community members alike. Organized by the East Passyunk Crossing Civic Association, this cherished event promises to rekindle the spirit of community and culinary excellence that has been its hallmark.

I hope you had a wonderful Easter, for those who celebrate, as well as a time to reconnect with friends and family. This year was the first time in 14 years I didn’t attend the Easter Parade on South Street. I love it, and I will return, but I was excited to try something different this year and that was enjoying a lovely brunch with friends hosted by TV personality Brian Balthazar (r) and Dennis St. Germain (standing), real estate agent to the stars, but he’d never tell you that. (They moved to our area during the pandemic, here’s their home feature on The Today Show.) Rounding out this photo are my friends Rich and Jimmy Eib, owner of 1600 Spruce Interior Design & Home

The Cherry Trees seem to bloom earlier and earlier each year. I hope you had a chance to see them this weekend. They were so beautiful and bountiful. I’m heading into the busy Spring Social Season, but I am going to work hard at not getting overwhelmed and will post here at least 3 times a week.

Socially Yours, HughE

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Around Town With HughE

A Valentine’s Dinner Party: Love, the Barnes on 2/14/24

On Wednesday, February 14 , The Barnes hosted a fabulous, romantic Valentine’s Dinner Party among world class art and architecture. Guests enjoyed a deliciously curated menu, as we mingled with our Valentines, galentines and palentines.

Rachel and Michael Blanchfeld

The evening kicked off with a special cocktail hour where guests mixed and mingled while enjoying drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

Lou Fatuato and Julia Dolinger
Autumn and Anthony Smiley, with Walt and Naomi Livingston
Yuliza Brel-Fousmier and Andrew Faurnier
Fidan A Lizata and Emre Kara

For dinner there was an aphrodisiac-rich, Mediterranean-inspired menu crafted by Constellation Culinary Group.

Meg Matmens and Sue Prieto

o Amuse of Winter Fluke Crudo o First Course of Warmed Hummus Mezze with roasted fennel & sumac, mint & garlic pesto o Choice of Entrée including Pan Seared Branzino, Harissa Braised Beef Short Rib or Charred Vidalia Onion o Sweet Treats including Gilded Chocolate Lava Cake Bites, Blueberry Cheesecake Torte, Spiced Carrot Cake and French Macarons o Plus, take-home Champagne truffles

Tarik and Brin Brooks
Jim Miller and Sean Hartigan

Why is this column showing up so late. Well as you know I have exclusives with three magazines. Philly Mag, Philly Style and Main Line Today. When I shoot something like this in February, I submit it to the mags. For each outlet I submit multiple options, and I only know which party they picked up when the magazine is published. This fabulous one wasn’t, so I am publishing it here on Chit Chat. I hope the Barnes has more of these events, it was quite lovely.

Socially Yours, HughE

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Philly Current’s 12th Annual #PCpicks2024

Philly Current Magazine celebrated another fabulous year celebrating fabulous folks making a difference in Philadelphia, with their 12th Annual Philly Current Picks issue.

Philly Current is the brainchild of Eddie Keels, publisher and owner, here with his biggest supporter wife Elise. “Did I think starting a print – let me repeat that, print – magazine in 2012 was a great idea? No. But I got over my fears about how embarrassing failure could be, and I was confident I’d make it work,” he told Main Line Media News in 2018. And he has. The PC Picks Issue is a highlight of all things great in Philly, starting with the cover shot of Sami Aziz, or South Street Sam as he is known. an innovating photographer who shoots portraits on South Street.

Philly Current Magazine celebrated their 12th PC Picks Issue in style on March 13 on the Moshulu (on picks as “Til Death Do Us Party”) docked on the Delaware River. Attended by many of the folks who are featured in the magazine, as well as alumni including yours truly.

Gervase Petersen and David Beatty
Jennifer Lynn Robinson, Jaimi Blackburn and Afea Tucker
Patrick and Ronica Cleary

Thanks to Klyr Rum, Kenwood Beer and Curious Elixirs (alcohol free cocktails) for keeping the spirits high throughout the evening.

The Bite Size girls @bitesizedsis @bitesizedfitness and their posse, hot off their wildly popular fashion show DreamWalk Fashion Show, not related to Philly Fashion Week at all, but still popular and fun. Their focus is more on the models, and less on the fabulous of designs. There’s plenty of room on the catwalk for all inclusivity, fashion sense in Philly.

Marie Nicolo, Natalie Egenolf and Rob Lawless is nearly to his goal of 10,000 friends
Stylish couple Don Bell and Crystal Bell
The Fab Four Influencers: Davida Lovelace, Gabrielle Ochoco, Gabbi Townsend and Sabir M. Peel.
AJ, Queen Jo and J Taylor

Always a winner: Nothing Bundt Cakes owner Kim Wright, who brought the 60s hostess gift dessert back to popularity a few years ago.

Barry Turner and Crystal Gaines
If this was a year book these two would win cutest couple.
Miguel Martinez-Valle and Ray Smeriglio.
In front of the camera: Sam Aziz and the original Philly street shooter Big Rube Harley.

What I like about Philly Current Magazine is it’s always one step of all the other glossy magazines with where to eat, who to watch, where to shop. It’s an easy read. Inexpensive and if you need to be the insider, it comes in a brown envelope. No one will know you got the info from Philly Current Magazine.

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PIXS: Willowdale Steeplechase Happy Hour

Dean Richardson, Kennett Square, Beth Fantaine of Kennett Square, Josh Taylor of Kennett Square and Katherine Bucklin of Kennett Square

Last month the friends of Willowdale Steeplechase Races held a happy hour at Grain Craft Bar & Kitchen, in Kennett Square . The night wasn’t only about enjoying the fine drinks and good food but also about the unique opportunity to rub elbows with the heart and soul of our community – including community leaders, trainers, New Bolton Vets, the dedicated folks from Stroud Water Research Center, and even the mayor showed up.

Jill Abbott of Wilmington and Mattie Moore of Wilmington

The Willowdale Steeplechase Races, a thrilling day of equestrian excellence and family-friendly fun nestled in the picturesque Chester County, Pennsylvania is held each spring. This year Race Day is May 11. Since it’s founding in 1993, Willowdale has donated more than $600,000 to local charities.

Emma Merstetter of Union, Bill Knox of Kennett Square, Lisa Knox of Kennett Square and Brad Herzog of Kennett Square
Andrea Collins of Kennett Square, Emory Taylor,, John Taylor of West Grove and Evie Dutton of West Grove
Matt and Jessica Provinski of Coatesville
Becky D’Amico of Newtown Square , Jay Barnes of Kennett Square and Elizabeth Hedley of Austin Tx executive director of Willowdale Race
Casey McKinney, John Sylvester and Colleen McKinney of Kennett Square
Stephanie Sauk, Coastesville and Alyse Gray. Philadelphia
John Renzetti, Chadds Ford, Margaux Rover, West Chester, JT Towne, West Chester, Robert Colton of Wilmington and Theresa Sarsone of Newark
Emma Merstetter of Unionville, Josh Taylor of West Grove, and Lisa Knox of Kennett Square
Nancy Wood of Unionville, John Guerrera of Exton, Brad Herzog‘ of Kennett Square, Michael Bucklin of Kennett Square, Crosby Wood of Unionville

A few weeks later the other local favorite Steeplechase holds it’s races: The Radnor Hunt Races on May 18. I’ll be there for the 15th year. Read more about steeplechase races in Main Line Today

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Around Town With HughE

Jefferson Health opens The Honickman Center

The wait is over, and it was worth it. Jefferson Health has cut the ribbon on its new outpatient facility in Center City, a 19-story tower which will integrate multiple specialties under one roof when it opens to the public on April 15.

The Honickman Center, at 11th and Chestnut streets encompasses about 462,000 square feet , has more than 300 exam rooms, 58 infusion chairs, 10 operation rooms, six endoscopy rooms, imaging and laboratory services and a pharmacy. It also has an underground parking garage.

“We’ve created an experience that will change the way we view and define healthcare in the future,” says Dwight W. McBee, Executive Vice President and Chief Experience and Clinical Health Equity Officer for Jefferson Health. “We’ve learned that finding parking for your vehicle, making your way through the building to your appointment, and how many times you answer the same questions are as important as the surgery you have and the follow-up care we provide. We’ve studied each moment in the care journey and thoroughly curated experiences that redefine how we think about healthcare.”

“The Honickman Center stands as our flagship medical facility in Center City and as the epicenter of a more than $1 billion urban development project in East Market,” Jefferson Health CEO Joseph Cacchione said.

The Honickman Center, located at the 1100 block of Chestnut Street, across the street from Jefferson Hospital, took four years to build and stands 19 stories tall. It will host over 300 exam rooms, 10 operating rooms, and 58 infusion chairs for treatments.

“The Honickman Center was truly designed by patients for patients,” said Dr. Baligh R. Yehia, president of Jefferson Health. “We spoke with hundreds of patients and community members who shared their perspectives and informed our design from concept through completion. The Honickman Center also represents the future of health care by blending physical and virtual care, while enhancing the human interaction between a patient and their care provider.” (source)

Jefferson officials said their goal was to create a more seamless experience for patients by enabling them to have multiple appointments in a day without needing to travel between buildings in Center City. All of the patient rooms will have digital screens that enable other clinicians and relatives to participate virtually in appointments.

One of the waiting rooms

Jefferson Health received a $50 million gift from Lynne and Harold Honickman, (c) along with their children Marjorie and Jeffrey Honickman 3rd and 4th from left) and Shirley Han 4th from right) and Richard Hahn, in support of its new 19-story medical building. More than 2,000 individual donors chipped in roughly $150 million as well.

Marjorie and Jeffrey Honickman helped pick out the art work with a committee for the new space. They wanted to make sure people going through treatment were surrounded by beauty.

58 infusion chairs for extended procedures, some have views of the City skyline.

One of the state of the art operating rooms, there are 10

Patients at the Honickman Center will have access to a number of Jefferson’s named care facilities, including the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Nicoletti Kidney Transplant Center and Vickie & Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience. See additional photos at CBSPhiladelphia