Walking Across the Boards

Walking across the boards by Ralph Rodriguez and opened in 1962, you could Andrew Thompson restage your own Nixon- This is the third in a Khrushchev kitchen debate four-part series anticipating in a full scale mock-up The Newsletter of the 50th anniversary of of a Hopkinson House Hopkinson House in 2012. apartment at Strawbridge & Hopkinson House • Summer 2011 In 1962, our building‘s Clothier’s department store original developer, Major on Market Street. The model (1963) seems to confirm this and the basic Philadelphia Realty Corporation, began apartments included skyline viewpoint: psychology for centuries has renting out lower floor views through faux windows. “A few Old Philadelphians been oriented, like London, apartments before Design consultants stood have always lived in rather toward houses, not, like Paris, the rest of the ready to help you moth-eaten apartment houses toward flats. As far as Old structure was 1962 choose the furniture along Rittenhouse Square or Philadelphia is concerned, completed. A series and accoutrements in such residential hotels as remodeling houses in Society of plywood tunnels HH needed to realize a the Barclay, but these have Hill is suitable; renting rooms were constructed fabulous high-rise usually been older or single in Park Towne [Place: on Benj. from the street to lifestyle. Sky-high people. Nearly everybody else Franklin Parkway] is not. One the service elevator 50 homes were still a see anniversary, page 11 in Philadelphia wants a house, 2012 for the safety of fairly new concept those earliest tenants. outside of New York These and other pieces of and Chicago, and What’s inside Hopkinson House lore members of our group recall were noted during a recent that some Philadelphians by Nelly Childress conversation with several found the idea of taking You will find in this issue the Council’s message long-time residents—some an elevator to a high floor by Harry Zaleznik, President, an important column of whom walked across those residence disquieting. A that will help you have an appreciation of how governing boards. contemporary perspective a condominium building is accomplished by Council. Our group recalled by Nathaniel Burt in The The reminders and recommendations from General that when the building Perennial Philadelphians Manager Judi Forte are a must even though you may be confident that you are well-aware of the nuts and bolts of Hopkinson House’s organization and how to navigate it. Two social events are noted, one by Susan Tomita on the Hopkinson House Courtyard inclusion in the Society Hill Civic Association Open House and Garden Tour that took place on a cool and windy Sunday afternoon in May, and the other, by Lynn Miller, on the Washington Square Affair also sponsored by Society Hill Civic Association on a heat-record day in June. The third of the four-part series written in anticipation of the 50th anniversary of Hopkinson House—“Walking across the boards”—recounts with humor Hopkinson House lore from conversations with long-time residents by Ralph Rodriguez and Andrew Thompson. Dan Rothermel gives us interesting comments on the Philadelphia Opera Company’s American premiere of Hans Werner Henze’s Some of Hopkinson House’s longest continuous residents. Back row opera Phaedra. The saga of a Jewish Viennese teenager from left: Byron Fink (since 1962) George Koch (1966) Jim Siegel (now our neighbor) and her parents following the 1938 (1977); Front row from left: Bo Ettlinger (1965) Scott Childress Anschluss and their resettlement in the USA has been (1963) Nelly Childress (1975); Not pictured: Bob Devoe and written compassionately by Enny Cramer. ■ Nancy Snyder.. Photography: Thompson Andrew 2 • SUMMER 2011 • ON THE HOUSE ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 3 Remembering our building’s namesake Message from Council by Nelly Childress January 1st, 1778, kegs charged Nor dream’d of harm as he lay Although Independence with gunpowder (the first warm, Editorial Committee Considering new capital projects Day is past we in Philadelphia mines) down the Delaware In bed with Mrs. L----g. Nelly M. Childress Enny Cramer continue to celebrate River toward the city. Alarmed by Harry Zaleznik solarium, and maintenance begun preliminary review Byron Fink throughout July. On this for the safety of their ships, the Now in a fright, he starts upright, HHOA Council President shop) was completed in 2007. and planning for the eventual Lynn Miller occasion let us remember the British fired with cannons and Awak’d by such a clatter; Dear Neighbors, Two other capital projects upgrading of the heating David Roberts Ralph Rodriguez person our building was named small arms at everything they He rubs both eyes and boldly As residents enter and are also well under way. First, and air conditioning in the Dan Rothermel after: Francis Hopkinson, best saw floating in the river. It is a cries, leave Hopkinson House this Council is working with the individual units. As part of Susan Tomita known for his role as an ardent very long poem, but here are “For God’s sake, what’s the summer, they will likely be Design Committee to select a this process, Council has Council Liaison patriot during the American some of the stanzas. matter?” aware of the project to replace reasonably priced replacement commissioned a ten-year Paul Coyne Revolution, and a signer of the the ground floor windows. carpet for the solarium. capital reserve study as a Graphic Design Declaration of Independence. “These kegs, I’m told, the rebel At his bed-side he then espy’d, Several months of negotiations Second, Council is awaiting necessary first step in exploring Desperate Hours Productions, He was a versatile individual, hold, Sir Erskine at command, sir, with the Philadelphia Historic a revised design based on its various options for funding [email protected] author, musician, dabbled Pack’d up like pickling herring; Upon one foot, he had one boot, Commission were required recent feedback on an initial the project. Hopkinson House Advertising in science and worked out And they’re come down t’attack And th’ other in his hand, sir. to secure final approval of the proposal for the renovation of is indeed fortunate to have icon. Messages can be read Nancy Snyder, (215) 627-1731 inventions, a skillful draftsman the town, design. The project, which the passenger elevator cabs. such a hard working, involved by all Council members, and Photography and a clever maker of pastel In this new way of ferrying.” Unfortunately for the includes the windows for As a result of previous Council. the President will respond on David Roberts portraits. success of the experiment, the all commercial space, has an Councils’ careful planning, As part of its commitment behalf of Council. Issue Contributors During the war of The soldier flew, the sailor too, British ships had been drawn estimated completion date the costs for all three projects to improved communication, Council looks forward Nelly Childress Independence he wrote the And scar’d almost, to death, sir up into the docks out of the of October 2011. This is the (ground floor windows, Council has enhanced the HH to the continued cooperation Enny Cramer Judi Forte ballad “Battle of the Kegs” that Wore out their shoes, to spread way of floating ice. final phase of the multi-year solarium carpeting, and website so that residents can of building management and Lynn Miller was long exceedingly popular, the news, This text was taken from window replacement project: elevator cab renovation) send comments or questions staff, as well as unit owners, as Ralph Rodriguez but an imaginative expansion And ran till out of breath, sir. George Everett Hastings: The windows throughout the are fully covered by funds to Council. After accessing we complete current projects Dan Rothermel Andrew Thompson of the actual facts: To alarm the Life and Works of Francis individual units were replaced earmarked for these projects in the website http://www. and look ahead to other capital Susan Tomita British forces at Philadelphia Sir William, he, snug as a flea, Hopkinson (Chicago: The in 2006, and the replacement our Capital Reserve Fund. thehopkinsonhouse.com, simply needs. Harry Zeleznik the Americans floated, on Lay all this time a snoring, University Press, 1926). ■ of roof area windows (pool, Your Council has also click on the “Council e-mail” All the best. ■ Message from Management There’s warm, there’s hot, then there’s fire by Judi Forte furniture and mulch fires. A goes into the early morning Summer arrived earlier fire is a high price to pay for hours when most of the than anticipated, with not extinguishing your butts residents are asleep, only to late May and early June in a closed ashtray. be awakened suddenly by temperatures well into the Remember that all loud voices or noises coming 90s. Most of us love the balcony umbrellas must be from a neighboring balcony. summer weather and the closed when they are not in Please remember that your opportunity to enjoy the use and taken down when voice carries when you are world outside. But, when you there is the danger of a storm on your balcony and to use live in a multi-family building or high winds. All loose or your inside voice so as not to such as Hopkinson House, removable objects must be disturb your neighbors’ rest. summer brings its own set of removed from the balconies We also would like to remind The use of bar-b-que issues, which are not unique during periods of high everyone that residents are grills is prohibited in high to Hopkinson House. One winds. And please remember entitled to the use of their rise buildings by order of the most serious issues that bird feeders are not balconies to entertain guests of the Philadelphia Fire is the continued practice of permitted on the balconies. and have normal conversation Department. tossing cigarette butts from In the warm weather, without the threat of a Moves in and out of the balconies. These butts residents like to spend more neighbor shushing them or the building are permitted become airborne and can time on their balconies and calling the Resident Services Monday through Saturday. land anywhere. There have entertain their guests outside. Desk, especially before 10:00 No moves are permitted on been reports of burned patio Sometimes, the entertaining p.m. see management, page 17 Photography: David Roberts David Photography: ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 5 Philly life, Vienna foundations by Enny Cramer which she stayed in touch with in the Brookdale Hospital’s Eva Glassman, a charming her parents in Paris. In August Medical Laboratory Technology lady, shares a 10th floor condo 1939 the family succeeded in program where she met David, with her husband of over 60 immigrating to America on the then an intern. They were years, David, a retired U.S.-born SS Champlain*, having been married in 1947, and David physician. An interesting couple, sponsored by Marshall Field III undertook his medical practice in indeed, and well worth a write- and a distant cousin. Queens. In 1988 David retired up in our newsletter. They arrived in New York and they moved to Philadelphia Eva was born in Vienna, City with no money. Eva’s mother to be near their children. the only child of two Jewish found a job as a practical nurse During the Korean conflict health professionals trained at the at Sydenham Hospital, her David spent two years with the University of Vienna. her parents left for France. father remaining unemployed. Korean Military Advisory Group The first 13 years she was Her grandparents decided to Four years later both parents and was a Captain at a MASH a happy child of the Viennese remain in Austria, unwilling passed the U.S. medical boards, (Mobile Army Surgical Hospital) upper class, enjoying a carefree to recognize the danger of that whereupon both specialized in unit there. life. This, however, changed decision. Indeed, they were put psychiatry. The Glassmans have two drastically after the Nazis’ March in a concentration camp, first Eva was enrolled in the daughters and five grandchildren 1938 Anschluss. Eva’s earliest in Theresienstadt where her Julia Richman High School, in the Philadelphia region. memory of that time is that one grandfather died in 1941. Her where she met many other They used to travel day, on the way to school, two grandmother died in Auschwitz refugee children from Europe. extensively all over the globe, SS men ordered her to clean shortly after. The family lived in a one-room but lately the aging process their car. This incident upset her Upon arriving in France Eva apartment on East 76th Street is keeping them close to parents so much that they took was placed in a Roman Catholic before moving to Washington Hopkinson House. ■ her out of school and sent her to convent where she learned Heights. Once her parents were live with her grandparents in the to speak French fluently, and well established the family settled * The cross-Atlantic Ocean liner countryside. where no attempts were made to on Central Park West. SS Champlain was destroyed Shortly after that, in a convert her. She remembers this Upon her graduation from and sunk in 1940, by a mine in small propeller plane, Eva and period as a happy one, during high school in 1943, Eva enlisted the French port of La Pallice. Company scores with opera premiere by Dan Rothermel important opera composers Even as the financial woes of the later 20th and early 21st of The Philadelphia Orchestra centuries, has rarely been heard became generally known, a more on local stages so this American positive aspect of the musical life premiere was something of a in our city captured the interest coup for the regional company. of the international opera-going Although Philadelphia community with the Opera is not generally known for its Get coverage that’s right for you. Company of Philadelphia’s receptivity to new music, audi Save up to $500* when you do. production of Hans Werner ences at the Perelman seemed, Give me a call or stop in to get a quote. Henze’s 2007 opera Phaedra. bracingly, totally engrossed in Gannon Coyne and Associates, Inc. Receiving its American premiere Henze’s largely atonal score, Gannon CoyneDeanna Gannon& Associates, Coyne Inc, production in early June with created for a cast of five singing 213-215 [email protected] Avenue, Narberth PA 19072 TEL: 610-660-5151213 Haverford [email protected] Avenue five performances at the intimate actors and an orchestra of 23 Narberth, PA 19072 108 South Street, Philadelphia(610) 660-5151 PA 19147 Perelman Theater of the Kimmel comprised heavily of brass and TEL: 215-574-9080 FAX: 866-721-4442

6 Center, Phaedra is part of the woodwind instruments, harp, OCP’s Aurora Series of chamber celesta, piano and work for Q01-02Q operas. Henze, one of the most see opera, page 22 Photography: David Roberts David Photography: ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 7 Another bloomin’ affair on the square by Lynn Miller Beautiful new flowerbeds in This spring’s Washington Square were Washington Square Affair created this summer thanks to kicked off at 6:00 p.m. on a last year’s Washington Square day in early June that broke Affair, which contributed to heat records for the date. their establishment and upkeep. It ended fairly abruptly They contain hydrangeas (left) for most party-goers some and azaleas. two hours later, when wind and rain suddenly whipped through our front yard of a park, rattling the flaps of the enormous white tent raised for the occasion. Even MAJOR LEAGUE though the weather gods were less than benign, more floor penthouse apartment than 400 participants seemed at the St. James looks unfazed. The evening was a down on our own rooftop huge success. swimming pool, takes in all SERVICE. Guests sampled of Society Hill, both the From backyards to big leagues, count on me to be there. delicious fare from some Benjamin Franklin and Walt I can help you get the coverage you need and the discounts you deserve. twenty neighborhood Whitman bridges, as well as restaurants and purveyors what looks like most of New of food and drink. They Jersey (though it’s probably washed it all down with not true, as some have wine, Philadelphia Row suggested, that on a clear House ale, sparkling cider, day you can see from there and manicured green of Hopkinson House residents or still and sparkling water. all the way to Portugal). The the lawns, along with lush acted as sponsors for the They met new neighbors, Cohns’ own chef prepared new flower beds. As several event. Two years’ running connected with old friends, the delicacies. neighbors commented at seem to have created what Daniel J O'Mara Ins Agcy Inc Daniel J O'Mara, Agent and bid on two dozen silent Down on the ground, the party, Washington is already a tradition. And 2644 E Tioga Street auction packages donated this second annual event Square has never looked why not? It’s great to have Philadelphia, PA 19134 by area businesses and sponsored by the Society better. a good time while knowing Bus: 215-425-6161 Fax: 215-425-9677 cultural institutions. Hill Civic Association Hopkinson House, that you’re contributing They were even bemused raised more than $90,000 to along with our neighboring to maintaining one of the by the sight of a young benefit Washington Square’s high-rise residences, was most beautiful public spaces Revolutionary-era soldier— upkeep and beautification. again a corporate sponsor in America, one that the knife-blade protruding Net proceeds will be for the affair. Our own Millie residents of Hopkinson from his skull, blood donated for that purpose Korn represented us on the House enjoy every day of the running down his cheek— to Independence National organizing committee; many year. ■ who apparently had been Historic Park—of which resurrected from his burial Washington Square has place that lay more or less been a part since 2002. beneath the ground where Last year’s Affair provided they feasted. a donation for installation The top ticket categories of an improved irrigation State Farm • Home Office, Bloomington, IL sent a number of guests system capable of providing P090130 before the main event to the sufficient water to maintain Top o’ the Square cocktail the flower beds, grass, and party in the spectacular tree areas in our Square. residence of Suzanne and The results are already Norman Cohn. Their full- evident in the vigorous Photography: David Roberts David Photography: ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 9 Give the Gift of Mobility! Sharing Adam and Eve’s garden by Susan Tomita As expressed by Paul Hopkinson House Coyne, “It was a chilly day, proudly opened its west and we are grateful for all courtyard gate to the Society the hard work each put into Hill Civic Association Open this wonderful event. A very House and Garden Tour on special thanks to all of the Sunday afternoon, May 22. staff of Hopkinson House Although the day was cool and for their hard work and Mobility for Everyone gray, more than 250 people suggestions to make it all visited. Thanks to resident just a bit better. A ‘well done’ volunteers and Hopkinson to all.” House staff, our courtyard Note: The large display lived up to its billing as one of panels referenced above the exceptional gardens in our were made for a fascinating historic neighborhood. exhibition titled “The Way Large display panels Enny Cramer, a volunteer guide, giving the tour of the backyard We Were.” Captioned pictures, with a pictorial history of to visitors. newspaper articles, and other Hopkinson House greeted items on the panels tell the visitors as they entered the this project. Thanks to Millie Marcy Bisicks, Nelly and history of Hopkinson House and garden. Volunteer guides Korn, member and recent Scott Childress, Enny Cramer, of Washington Square. These were stationed at the entrance, president of HHOA Council Eileen Gallagher, George were hung in the solarium the Adam and Eve sculpture, and to building manager Judi Koch, Alfred Margerum, and celebrated with a party in and the waterfall. They had Forte for getting this project Nancy Rapport, and Selma January 2008, then put into met days earlier for a briefing, off the ground. Special thanks Wieder. storage. ■ a site plan for our many to Jim McClelland, Enny plants, and talking points on Cramer, and George Koch for the site’s architectural and lending their writing talent, design history. research material, and editorial The tidied plaza showed skills for the presentation off the clean, simple, and materials. Kudos to Roger functional lines of its design. Moss and Gail Winkler for Neatly pruned shrubbery, putting the greenery in shape newly bedded flowers, and the for the event, and to landscape Medicare and other freshly painted moat made a architect Maryanne Hunter favorable impression. Lounge for volunteering her talent. chairs and umbrella-covered Thanks again also to insurance accepted! tables beckoned. James Scott and Victoria “I didn’t know this Kirkham for their work existed!” “What a great space!” chairing the Design “How beautiful!” “How lucky Committee and the Landscape these residents are to have Committee, respectively. such a wonderful place!” Such Praise goes to Tony Kelly and ON–SA ~ M T 8 H –6 exclamations were heard his staff for designing and C & R A S “ The market is a unique & LO U & H N C S frequently over the course of installing the panel display, H E A 9 T –

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1 A 3 D simmered in history.” E 2 was a hit! the enthusiastic and creative I - N 2 G V Y 2 T -9 E E A 5 —donnaandpetershovlin,villanova, R R D 1 Thank you again to Paul work that he and his staff M Y 2 I ~ NA G 877-7-LWHEELS marketshopperssince1968 LMA T.OR Coyne, past Washington performed. Cheers and RKE Square Citizens’ League applause for the volunteers www.libertywheels.net president and current member who generously gave visitors of HHOA Council, for informative, individual at 12th & Filbert garage with $10 purchase and Park for $4 validation from any merchant. Limit 2 hours. spearheading and chronicling tours—Ann Artz, Kim Berger, Photography: David Roberts David Photography: ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 11 Walking across the boards anniversary, from page 1 1970s, a number of employees “the most demanding (to visit) is curious to see then what at the nearby studios of KYW an imposing structure … will happen to the immense moved into our building. commanding a breathtaking new Hopkinson House on From the beginning, we panorama (with a) superlative Washington Square, or to the attracted a mix of older, location (and) the last word tall fingers of concrete proposed middle-aged and younger in luxury and sophistication.” by the Chinese-American folks. Some early residents An accompanying article noted Kathryn Ross is a classic architect Ieoh Ming Pei for even included empty nesters that one-bedroom units could literature graduate, a triathlon Society Hill. One must admit looking for a lawn-care-free be rented from $155 to $230 runner, and enjoys traveling. that everywhere a great boom in lifestyle. Our group recalled per month; two-bedrooms from big elaborate apartment houses that rents in the early 1960s $275 to $300; and 3-bedrooms has struck the city, whether ranged from about $150 to from $335 to $435. The ‘anybody’ lives in them or not.” the low $200s for a one- smallest efficiencies could be had (p.559) bedroom apartments and that for $95 per month! Early residents of people willing to sign up for a Despite competitive rents Hopkinson House included two-year lease, could get two and the advantages of moving many younger professionals months of free rent. into a brand-new building, who worked in offices and A February 18, 1962 early residents report that it other businesses in Center Philadelphia Inquirer open took well over one year for the City. Starting in the early house advertisement invited see anniversary, page 13 Erica Ungarini is at Temple University specializing in Pool a well-kept city secret accounting and finance. She also practices basketball. by Nelly Childress You can enjoy those beverages Summer! longer days, on the lower deck. The lap lanes sunshine, time to relax on are reserved for swimmers. If vacation, no winter boots, no you are not doing laps, leave heavy coats, no leaving home for these lanes clear. Water aerobics work in the dark and coming with Judy Hershman is available back still in the dark. How on Tuesdays and Thursdays at wonderful to catch up on one’s 1:00 p.m. Some will say that reading, loll in the sun or shade it is not only the best pool but at the pool, jump into it for that it is better than going to the a refreshing and invigorating shore! Our lifeguards are young, Christian Gunsenhouser swim! Or, renew your conscientious and friendly. Make loves music and life. He is a Tylar Colleluori, acquaintance with neighbors you their acquaintance. fitness buff. daughter of HHOA’s late hardly see the rest of the year assistant chief engineer Greg except perhaps at holiday parties. Colleluori, is a University of Hopkinson House’s swim Pittsburgh sophomore studying ming pool has a dazzling view anthropological linguistics and of the city, with a nice breeze communication. She likes cross- and is always degrees cooler country running and watching than the recorded temperature hockey. of the city. It is open, weather “Lou,” Christian, Kathryn, permitting, from 11:00 a.m. Aja, and Erica are quite to 10:00 p.m. weekdays and familiar with our pool and its from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. members having spent last weekends and holidays. Please Louis Di Dominic, head Aja Uhlman is a summer working here. We miss remember that no alcoholic lifeguard, manages a high school Duquesne University student Brion Smith who has joined beverages or glass containers cafeteria. He enjoys reading, majoring in speech/language Philadelphia’s workforce, and we are permitted on the pool deck. traveling, and the shore. pathology. welcome Tylar! ■ Photography: David Roberts David Photography: ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 13

constitutioncenter.org. Also, The Historic Philadelphia Inc. Civil War Summer programs will run through Labor Day. For more information visit Historic Philadelphia Inc. at http:// tinyurl.com/HPIpress.

New staff additions Gary McQueen, new in Housekeeping, replaces Robert Forte who was transferred to Maintenance.

Washington Square Citizens’ League at Hopkinson House Annual A neighbor lost Because we mixer in the backyard on a beautiful evening in June where residents We mourn the death of specialize and members socialized. Joan Guokas, wife of the late Matt Guokas and mother of

e were numerous, some Matt Jr., well-known sports s starting on June 30. The figures. Joan and husband u in sterling flatware, News A o Society Hill Civic Association Clifford Harris, Jr., son Matt were long-time owner- ro H Newsletter of June 23 gave of the late Clifford Harris, residents of Hopkinson House. u he detailed information on the man known to the Joan had a successful career in nd t what was planned for our residents as “Cliff ” who, as education, teaching at General we pay by Nelly Childress neighborhood during that we wrote in the winter 2008 George A. McCall School. top dollar. weekend. A number of issue of On the House, “was She was an active participant Following the Fourth the National Constitution a courteous, cheerful, and in the then Hopkinson House This newsletter will be Center’s programs are utterly dependable presence Social Committee, and was on published after the 4th of July continuing through at our front door for twenty- the Board of Election of our Spoons, forks, knives & plates celebrations of America’s September. For more two years.” We are glad to division’s polling place. Joan had birthday. Independence information call 215-409- have “Cliff Jr.” on board moved to New Jersey a few years We are also Philadelphia’s premier gold buyer Day activities that weekend 6700 or visit http://www. occupying his father’s desk. ago to be near her daughter. ■ Walking across the boards anniversary, from page 11 neighbors) buying groceries sub-station. Our group was Our group of early building to be fully rented. meant a substantial trek or uniform in its praise for the residents provided a variety Sell to your The neighborhood then was using the 7-Eleven superette efforts of Thomas Foglietta of interesting facts, including still in transition, many blocks located off the lobby. (a former Hopkinson House that Wilt Chamberlain, neighbor at the were only partially restored Although Mayor resident), U.S. Congressman Jessica Savitch, Malcolm Hopkinson House! and the area was pockmarked Dilworth built his house next and Ambassador to Italy, who Poindexter, Judge Juanita with large surface parking door to the Athenaeum in was instrumental in having Kidd Stout and Iron Chef lots. One early resident recalls 1957, Washington Square the square transferred to the Masahura Morimoto have that in 1962, the 200 block was poorly maintained by National Park Service (over all called Hopkinson House of Delancey was mostly not the city and perhaps a bit the Park Service’s objections). home. In the early years, redeveloped. The area also dangerous during the first The long process, begun in our building did not have lacked key amenities such as decades of Hopkinson House. the late 1980s and completed its own heating plant, but a neighborhood supermarket. Two policemen (the Gallagher in 2005, brought a significant was connected to an off-site Until 1968, when the set brothers) manned the small upgrade in materials such as municipal power plant. Our of stores on 5th Street that wooden structure on the East the benches and walkways and rear courtyard once boasted included an A&P were built side of the square near the in the overall maintenance of a moat around its perimeter (against the wishes of some Lippincott Building as a police the square. see anniversary, page 15 Photography: Susan Tomita (top); David Roberts (middle and bottom) and (middle Roberts David (top); Tomita Susan Photography: ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 15 Walking across the boards anniversary, from page 13 rented for about $600. which today is filled with At conversion small one- bushes and flowers. One early bedrooms were offered for resident recalls that dogs were around $50,000; but in-place permitted in the building residents were eligible for a until one early evening when 10% discount. Higher floors a Pekingese in the elevator commanded higher prices mistook a tuxedo pant leg for the same-sized units. The for a hydrant. An art history neighborhood in 1980 was buff in our conversation well established and sales pointed out that the lobby moved briskly. Prices were mural with a figure on the moderate compared to the few right, holding back a curtain other modern condominium to reveal a scene, is homage to buildings then available and The Artist in His Museum by the current price of a house Charles Willson Peale. Unlike in Society Hill. On the down Peale, our muralist chose to side, one member of our decapitate the man holding Hopkinson House and Washington Square in 1964. conversation noted that his back the curtain. The fate first mortgage in 1980 was set of the Venini Murano glass to the units were painted Brutalism than today. Painting at a staggering interest rate of chandelier that once graced (which many early residents unified the elements of the 13.75%. Our early residents our lobby provoked a series still regret) and the outside building and helped create an recall that the necessary 75% of lively and entertaining of the building was also first International Style appearance of units were sold within two theories. Finally, there are painted. Prior to that date, that also helps hide the years and that many (perhaps reports that the model for the building was raw concrete inevitable repairs required by well over 50%) of renters the bronze panels decorating with light gray brick insets. concrete over time. chose to buy. the lobby and the female in The look of the building in The one-bedroom that The reasons for our long- the garden sculpture, was a early photographs is more in had rented for about $150 term residents choosing to live former Hopkinson House the architectural tradition of per month in 1962, by 1980 in Hopkinson House for close resident who was a close to five decades were clear: personal friend of architect the building has always been Oskar Stonorov. first completed, Hopkinson House’s modern consistently well maintained; During the first decades, Whenstyle received mixed reviews. In the New the neighborhood became a community of like-minded Republic magazine (Vol. 149, 1963), architectural critic increasingly attractive and tenants began to coalesce Wolf von Eckardt observed: “The first completed high-rise amenities such as restaurants within the building. And like apartment in the area, a lush affair called Hopkinson House, and theatres became more in a scene out of the TV series seems a bit too nouveau riche for the refinement the area numerous (although Mad Men, some of our early obviously hopes to attain. Architects Stonorov and Haws department stores continued residents recalled wonderful endowed it with many handsome architectural details, but to disappear). Finally, most somehow there are too many of them.” Continuing this apartment parties clouded of our group indicated that theme, a reference in Show: The Magazine of the Arts (Vol. with cigarette smoke and 3, 1963), stated: “I must confess dismay at that oversized in Hopkinson House they fueled by generous martinis. morsel of architectural patisserie called Hopkinson House had found a community and a This sense of community that architects Stonorov and Haws have placed on the south feeling of home. may have been a factor in the side of Washington Square. Oskar Stonorov is one of our most In the next On the House smooth transition from rental sensitive designers, but here he obviously tried too hard we will conclude our four-part apartments to condominiums. to conceal the unconscionable lump of a luxury apartment series with an article entitled In 1980, the building building with fanciful reinforced concrete icing.” Eventually “@HopHouse,” in which we was converted from rentals though, the architectural community did come around and will email, text, Skype and to condominiums. As part recognized Hopkinson House with the American Institute of tweet with some of the of this effort, the outside Architects/Philadelphia Chapter’s Top Design Award in 1966. newest members of our of the natural wood doors community. ■ Photography: Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division, Historic American Buildings Survey. Survey. Buildings American Historic Division, Photographs and Prints of Congress, Library Photography: ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 17 There’s warm, there’s hot, then there’s fire OUTSTANDING EXCEPTIONAL management, from page 3 you more money if the cigarette smoke is invading your drapes in the summer Care Comfort Sundays, religious and legal movers are being paid by their unit and they ask that when the sun is coming in holidays. Moves may start the hour. It is in your best we install a threshold (also and to open your drapes in at 10:00 a.m. and must be interest to pack your boxes known as weather strips) on the winter to allow the sun to completed by 4:00 p.m. and organize your belongings the door of the unit from come in. Every little step that After 4:00 p.m., there is before the movers arrive. which the smoke is emanating. is taken by a resident can be limited staff in the building • Be sure to file a change The heating and cooling multiplied by 536 units. It and the freight elevator of address with the Post systems in this building can make quite an impact on operator has gone home Office. operate on outside air. The the energy usage and costs in for the day. Non-employees • Trucks over 12 feet outside air is brought into the this building. of the building are not in height will not be building and either heated We hope that all of permitted to operate the permitted into the garage. or cooled. It flows through you have converted your AT PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL freight elevator. Large moving trucks have the building by way of the air lighting to CFL bulbs or The summer months to park on Sixth Street handlers in the hallways. The LED lighting. Because of are the busiest time of the and the movers will have air then goes under the unit new standards prescribed year for moves. Only one to transport furniture and doors and exits the building for common-use light bulbs The Pavilion move per day is permitted belongings up the ramp to through the vents in each unit. by the Energy Independence The private rooms and suites of The Pavilion and the schedule gets booked the truck. This keeps the airflow in the and Security Act of 2007, up weeks in advance. If you • Take your bike from the building balanced. Installing otherwise known as the are designed to bring a premium level of are planning a move, please bike room before leaving. thresholds which will prevent Clean Energy Bill, 100-watt reserve the freight elevator Unclaimed bikes are odors from being released incandescent bulbs will comfort, service and amenities to hospital as soon as you suspect that disposed of periodically. into the halls will also block no longer be available for you may be moving. You can • Make arrangements with the airflow of the heating and purchase in the U.S. as of care that is unsurpassed in the region. The always cancel or change the Comcast to return your cooling in the building and January 1, 2012. moving date if your plans cable modem, digital boxes cause the systems to work Available replacements Pavilion addresses all of your personal needs change. The charge to reserve and remotes. less efficiently, so installing include 20- to 25-watt the freight elevator is $150 Elevator Safety: Several thresholds is not an accepted fluorescent bulbs or 70- to while delivering the excellent care that and it is non-refundable. years ago, the sensors for the course of action. Instead, we 72-watt halogen bulbs Your moving date cannot elevator doors were replaced ask that the smokers in the or their equivalents. And Pennsylvania Hospital has been providing to be confirmed until this fee with state-of-the-art sensors building take responsibility by January 1, 2014, 75- all of its patients for more than 250 years. is paid. We do not accept which detect movement for their habit and use air watt, 60-watt and 40-watt cash. Payment is by check or from all angles outside of the filtration systems in their incandescent bulbs will money order only. elevators: right side, left side, units to eliminate the smoke no longer be available. For more information, call 215.662.4141. When you are moving, middle. With the old sensor before it can get into the Bulbs that are less than 40 the elevator will be at your system grabbing the edge of hallways. Some buildings watts or more than 150 disposal to transport your the elevator door or blocking in the area have begun to watts, including appliance furniture and belongings. it with your body would prohibit smoking everywhere lamps, 3-way bulbs, colored Our mission is to get the prevent it from closing. With in their buildings including lamps and plant lamps move finished as quickly the current sensor system, inside the units. are not affected by the AmenitiesExpress check-in as possible. However, the this is not a good idea as a One of the simplest ways legislation. The energy and check-out freight elevator is also used hand or body on the door to save energy is to close see management, page 19 to transport contractors, blocks the sensors. If the SALE Gourmet, deliveries and bring the trash elevator door is closing as you Hopkinson House #1116 chef-prepared meals down from 31 trash rooms. approach it, wave your hand, This is likely to occur during umbrella, package or anything This 2-bedroom, 1½-bath home Fine linens and your move, but your move that you have in the opening boutique toiletries overlooking the park from the will not be delayed because between the closing door and northwest corner of the building of other building activities. the frame. Afternoon tea Do not grab the is expected to become available Some residents do not elevator door with your hand or for purchase in the near future. begin to pack their boxes try to use your body to prevent until the moving-truck the door from closing. To inquire, please send email to arrives. This not only delays Frequently, we hear from [email protected] your move, it may also cost a resident that the smell of or call 954-895-9290. ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 19 There’s warm, there’s hot, then there’s fire management, from page 17 the amount of mercury in the items are mixed together If you have boxes to savings when using these environment. on the truck and are sorted discard, please do not leave bulbs is remarkable and But, because mercury at the dumping station. them in the trash room. Call you will eliminate having to should never come in contact However, you will see three the resident services desk continually change burned- with skin or clothing, even different colored containers at 215-923-1776 to have out light bulbs. in trace amounts, fluorescent in the trash rooms for housekeeping pick up the CFLs contain minute bulbs require special recycling. We still ask that boxes. amounts of mercury, a handling when discarded. you follow the instructions If you have not substance harmful to humans A number of safe disposal on the signs posted in the completed and returned your if inhaled or absorbed packaging systems are now trash room for recycling. emergency information form, through the skin. However, available that comply with This separation in the trash please do so. The information according to the U.S. government regulations and room makes it easier and on this form is vital in Environmental Protection many municipal recycling safer for the staff to pull out helping us to assist you in Agency, it would take the centers and Home Depot anything that may be un- the event of an emergency. It mercury in a hundred CFLs stores recycle CFLs. For recyclable or broken glass is also helpful for us to have to roughly equal that found more information, visit which cannot be recycled. your e-mail address on file. in one older thermometer. http://www.epa.gov/mercury/ Please rinse out bottles Forms can be obtained at the And since most mercury consumerinfo.htm#cfl. and jars before putting Resident Services Desk. found in the atmosphere Hopkinson House, them in the recycling bins. From Council, is actually a byproduct of as required by the City of Unrinsed bottles can attract Management and staff at burning coal, the use of Philadelphia, participates rodents and insects which Hopkinson House, have a fluorescent bulbs, if handled in single stream recycling. can find their way into the safe and wonderful TIMES MAY BE TOUGH properly, will actually reduce This means that the recycled apartments. summer. ■

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1818 Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103 / 215.558.2410 2008 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. PNC Bank Member FDIC. Photography: David Roberts David Photography: © ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 21 Company scores with opera premiere opera, from page 5 er, a loyal Nazi, proclaimed with Moroni whose unexpected score. Phaedra, almost mad two percussionists but only that people like young Henze death during the period of the with passion for her stepson and four strings, as well as an ac belonged in concentration opera’s composition also had goaded by Aphrodite, was sung by companying electronic “bruitage” camps.” The forest of Nemi, the a profound effect on the work the lustrously dark-voiced Tamara created by Francesco Antonioni. scene of the second act, was in of the composer. Hippolyt’s Mumford. William Burden, Based on the Greek legend legend the domain of Artemis second-act transformation, resur a long-time favorite of OCP of Phaedra, the wife of Theseus, (of Diana), the goddess of the rected as King of the Forest, is audiences, appeared as Hippolyt, slayer of the Minotaur, who hunt, with whom Hippolyt be accomplished under the influ entranced by Artemis and repelled is consumed with lust for her comes entranced. Apparently, ence of the ambiguously gen by the attention of his obsessed stepson, Hippolyt, the libretto Nemi was also very near the dered Artemis, sung, perhaps stepmother, singing the difficult Digital (in German) by Christian home of Henze and his life not surprisingly, by a male alto, tenor role with ease. Mumford Lehnert is a decidedly modern partner, Fausto Moroni. After Anthony Rolf Costanzo. and Burden had previously scored riff on the original legend, in self-acceptance, Henze lived The cast of five singers was with local audiences in the Opera Mammography deed having very little in com happily for 40 productive years virtually ideal for this demanding opera, from page 5 mon with its more familiar, more humane retelling in Jean at the Tuttleman Center Racine’s absorbing tragedy (1677). Director Robert Driver, OCP’s Artistic Director, drew Pennsylvania Hospital outpatient radiology at the Tuttleman Center provides patients inspiration from a Latin tragedy with outstanding personalized care from board certified radiologists. by Seneca, itself closely based on an older Greek tragedy by Mammography remains the most accurate screening method for detecting breast cancer. Euripides, and took hints as well Digital mammography offers several advantages over traditional mammography including: from Henze’s autobiography, ß The ability to detect tumors difficult to identify ß Enhanced imaging details for radiologists; Bohemian Fifths, in creating the • Over 150 Wines by the Glass by traditional mammography allowing greater precision and eliminating the present production. • Private Party Rooms Available ß Flexible plates for greater comfort need for repeat screening A compact work totaling ß Completion of exam in half the time of ß The ability to store and send images about 75 minutes, the compo • Guinness World Records™ electronically, providing instant access to your traditional mammography sition of its two brief acts were ß Less radiation exposure than traditional medical records anywhere in the world “World’s“World’s LargestLargest Winekeeper”Winekeeper” ™ separated by a period of life- mammography threatening illness in which • Winner of Wine Spectator’s All mammography films are read by full-time, board-certified Penn radiologists the composer experienced a “Best“Best ofof AwardAward ofof Excellence”Excellence” who specialize in breast imaging. Mammography appointments are typically scheduled near-coma of two months. The within the week of the initial request. first act was largely completed in 2005. Not surprisingly, the second act, completed after the Other services include: Tuttleman Center illness, took an entirely different ß Ultrasound 1840 South Street, 3rd Floor turn. Just as Henze’s world had ß MRI Philadelphia, PA 19146 changed, so has Hippolyt’s after ß CT scan Phone: 215.829.6670 his return from death. When he ß DEXA (bone mineral density measurements) Fax: 215.893.7011 heard the entire work at its Berlin ß General diagnostic radiography premiere in 2007, the composer For directions and parking information, ß DentaScan himself was apparently somewhat please visit PennMedicine.org/radiology. FREE PARKING DURING LUNCH surprised by the second act’s intense life-affirming qualities. “In a poignant revelation in Henze’s autobiography,” writes Old City Driver, “he describes how as a Front & Market Streets youth he was summoned into his 215.922.7800 father’s presence after his parents www.panoramaristorante.com had probably had a discussion about his private live. His fath ON THE HOUSE • SUMMER 2011 • 23 Company scores with opera premiere opera, from page 5 Stearns in his Inquirer review, of a distinctly Germanic sort.” H. Auden and Chester Kallman, Company’s acclaimed 2009 pro “the production is among OCP’s “Ultimately,” writes Andrew who had previously provided Igor duction of Benjamin Britten’s most sophisticated … outfitted Moravcsik, in Opera Today, “the Stravinsky with the libretto of The Rape of Lucretia. Costanzo with panels in near constant Opera Company of Philadelphia The Rake’s Progress, this whimsical excelled in the taxing role of motion, both physically and in has chosen to emphasize first and opera, to be produced next March, Artemis as did Elizabeth Reiter the video images they carry.” A foremost the music. Phaedra is a “explores what happens when a as Aphrodite. The sonorous number of these images, troubling miraculous musical achievement ruthless poet looks to an unlikely bass of Jeremy Milner was a to some audience members, that combines the freshness of cast of characters to provide his welcome contrast in the role of the suggested modern day science youth with the wisdom of old age. artistic inspiration.” Next season’s unexpected resuscitated Minotaur. fiction. Peter Burwasser, writing An opportunity to hear voices Aurora Series will also include All voices joined together in the in the Broad Street Review, found of this quality in a work of this four June performances of a new moving final chorale in which “the in the production “a few clumsy significance should not be missed.” American Opera, Dark Sisters, past and future are blurred in a moments, such as a buzz saw Next season as part of with music by Nico Muhly and life-affirming dance.” OCP’s music spattering blood and the jarring the Aurora Series, the Opera libretto by Stephen Karam, a director, Corrado Rovaris, pre appearance of the Minotaur’s Company will continue its joint production with Gotham sided over the thorny score with head,” but noted that “these visuals exploration of the work of Chamber Opera and Music- his usual consummate authority. were likely meant to introduce a Hans Werner Henze when, in Theater Group. The Opera Incidentally, for a number of sort of wink at the absurdity of collaboration with the young Company’s mainstage season at years Maestro Rovaris was a the story line, in which director singers of the Curtis Opera the Academy of Music embraces familiar figure to our readers, as Robert Driver finds no little Theatre, it presents Henze’s three full-scale productions: a resident of Hopkinson House humor, an observation he cor haunting 1961 opera, Elegy for Bizet’s Carmen in September before his family’s move to the roborated with the composer.” All Young Lovers, a work inhabiting and October, Mozart’s The nearby St. James. in all, audiences found Phaedra an entirely different sound world Abduction from the Seraglio in “Both technologically and exhilarating and, as Stearns from that of Phaedra. With an February and Puccini’s Manon conceptually,” wrote David Patrick characterized it, “a crowd pleaser— English-language libretto by W. Lescaut in April. ■

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