Welcome to The Philadelphia Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• A Surreal Art & Fashion Show

• Upcoming WrestleMania event

• A deep dive into the life of Pearl Bailey

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will."

– Suzy Kassem

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Which Philadelphia museum houses the iconic "Rocky" statue?

A) The Franklin Institute

B) The Mütter Museum

C) The Rodin Museum

D) The Philadelphia Museum of Art

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:
The famous American inventor and statesman who founded the University of Pennsylvania is B) Benjamin Franklin.

News

💼 Business

Philadelphia has launched an initiative to boost security for local businesses through the Business Security Camera Program. (link)

The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia announces Gregory E. Deavens as Board Chair-elect. (link)

Family Dollar to close 6 Philadelphia stores, lay off employees. (link)

The Wistar Institute’s CEO on its new Center for Advanced Therapeutics in Philadelphia’s growing life science sector. (link)

🏒 Sports

John Mara couldn't hold in his emotions after seeing star running back Saquon Barkley choose the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency earlier this month. (link)

The Philadelphia Eagles traded the Pittsburgh Steelers for quarterback Kenny Pickett during the first week of NFL free agency, giving themselves a better insurance policy behind starter Jalen Hurts. (link)

Eagles Brass Believes Saquon Barkley is Special: 'Hard to Find!' (link)

Philadelphia Flyers fall to Florida Panthers as Sam Reinhart scores twice. (link)

🏦 Finance

Goodwin Procter on the hunt for talent a year after law firm's high-profile entry into Philadelphia. (link)

Big increase in gas prices in Philadelphia market in past week. (link)

Philadelphia summer jobs program for young people aged 12-24 is getting a makeover. In partnership with the school district and Philadelphia Works, a nonprofit job readiness firm, the program is launching Career Connected Learning PHL, or C2L-PHL. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏀 Philadelphia 76ers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder
Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA
Tuesday April 02 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

⚾ Philadelphia Phillies vs. Cincinnati Reds
Citizens Bank Park Philadelphia, PA
Wednesday April 03 | 1:05 PM | (more info)

🤼‍♂️ WWE UNDERTAKER 1deadMAN SHOW
The Fillmore Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA
Thursday April 04 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🤼‍♂️ WrestleMania Sunday
Lincoln Financial Field Philadelphia, PA
Sunday April 07 | 6:30 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Arin Ray - Phases Tour
The Foundry Philadelphia, PA
Tuesday April 02 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎶San Fermin w/ Runnner
Underground Arts Philadelphia, PA
Wednesday April 03 | 8:30 PM | (more info)

🎤 Larry Fleet
Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia
Friday April 05 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎷 Jeffrey Martin
World Cafe Live-Philadelphia
Saturday April 06 | 8:30 PM | (more info)

Family

🎨 Family Paint Party
129 S 30th Street Philadelphia
Saturday, April 6 | 3 - 5pm EDT | (more info)

🖍 Kids Art Club class with Lori Raggio
The Tacony LAB Community Arts Center
Saturday, April 6 | 11:30am - 1pm EDT | (more info)

🎭 Surreal Art & Fashion Show
Prism Arts Philadelphia
Saturday, April 6 | 8 - 11pm EDT | (more info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Philadelphia with buildings that change shape and color” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Philadelphia Historical Events

1874: The Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, opens.

In 1874, a historic milestone was achieved as the Philadelphia Zoo, America's first zoo, opened its gates to the public. Located in the heart of Philadelphia, this iconic institution has been a source of wonder and education for visitors of all ages for over a century. With a mission to promote wildlife conservation and provide a home for a diverse array of animal species, the Philadelphia Zoo has played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity.

Since its inception, the Philadelphia Zoo has been a beloved destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and animal lovers alike. As the first zoo in the United States, it set the standard for modern zoological parks and has continued to innovate and expand its offerings over the years. From its groundbreaking exhibits to its commitment to animal welfare and research, the Philadelphia Zoo remains a cherished cultural landmark that celebrates the beauty and diversity of the natural world.

As visitors stroll through the lush grounds of the Philadelphia Zoo, they encounter a captivating array of wildlife from around the globe. From majestic big cats to playful primates, the zoo's exhibits provide an immersive experience that fosters a deeper understanding of the animal kingdom. With its rich history and ongoing dedication to conservation, the Philadelphia Zoo stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of America's first zoo.

Famous People From Philadelphia

Pearl Bailey (1918–1990)

Early Years and Rise to Fame (1918–1938)

Pearl Bailey was born in Southampton County, Virginia, on March 29, 1918. Growing up in a deeply musical family, she showcased an early talent in singing which was nurtured by her father, a minister, and her mother. Moving to Philadelphia in her early childhood, Bailey received her initial exposure to music within the vibrant cultural scene of the city. This period of her life laid the groundwork for her future in entertainment, marking the beginning of a journey that would see her rise to national fame.

Breakthrough in Entertainment (1938–1945)

By the late 1930s, Bailey's career began to take off. She made her way to New York City, where she performed in various nightclubs, captivating audiences with her charismatic presence and powerful voice. Her breakthrough came during World War II, where she entertained troops both domestically and abroad, gaining significant recognition. This era solidified her status as a rising star in the realms of both music and acting.

Broadway Success and Film Debut (1946–1952)

The post-war years were a period of significant achievement for Bailey. She made her Broadway debut in 1946 in "St. Louis Woman," for which she received critical acclaim for her performance. This success was quickly followed by her film debut, introducing her to a wider audience and showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her performances during this time were groundbreaking, breaking barriers for African American women in entertainment.

Recording Career and Musical Achievements (1953–1960)

Throughout the 1950s, Bailey's recording career flourished. She released several hit albums and singles, becoming known for her distinctive, sultry voice. Her music crossed genre boundaries, incorporating elements of jazz, blues, and traditional pop, making her a versatile and beloved figure in the music industry. During this period, she also made notable appearances on television and continued her work on Broadway.

Civil Rights Advocacy and Public Service (1961–1970)

In addition to her entertainment career, Bailey was deeply involved in civil rights advocacy and public service. She used her platform to speak out against racial injustice and was an active supporter of the Civil Rights Movement. Her contributions extended beyond advocacy; she was appointed as America's "Ambassador of Love" by President Richard Nixon, a role in which she promoted peace and goodwill.

Return to Broadway and Critical Acclaim (1971–1980)

The 1970s marked a triumphant return to Broadway for Bailey, most notably in the all-black production of "Hello, Dolly!" Her performance as Dolly Levi was a critical and commercial success, earning her a Special Tony Award. This period underscored her enduring appeal and talent as a performer, solidifying her legacy in the world of theater.

Later Years and Continued Influence (1981–1990)

In her later years, Bailey continued to perform and contribute to the arts, though at a more relaxed pace. She focused on writing, publishing several books that provided insights into her life, philosophy, and the entertainment industry. Despite reducing her public appearances, Bailey remained a respected and influential figure until her passing on August 17, 1990.

Pearl Bailey's Connection to Philadelphia

Philadelphia played a crucial role in Pearl Bailey's early life and career. The city's rich cultural scene provided her with the initial platform to hone her skills and gain exposure. Her experiences in Philadelphia's theaters and music venues were instrumental in shaping her artistic identity, contributing to her development as a multifaceted entertainer who would leave a lasting impact on the American entertainment landscape.

Key Achievements

• Groundbreaking performances on Broadway, particularly in "St. Louis Woman" and "Hello, Dolly!"

• Successful recording career with numerous hit singles and albums

• Significant contributions to film and television, showcasing her talent as an actress and singer

• Active involvement in civil rights advocacy and public service, including her role as America's "Ambassador of Love"

• Recipient of a Special Tony Award and numerous other accolades for her contributions to entertainment and society

Pearl Bailey's remarkable journey from the vibrant streets of Philadelphia to the bright lights of Broadway and Hollywood is a testament to her extraordinary talent and resilience. Her career spanned several decades, during which she broke barriers for African American women in entertainment, earned critical acclaim for her performances, and used her platform to advocate for civil rights. Bailey's legacy endures, not only through her contributions to music and theater but also through her dedication to public service and social justice.

Connect With Me

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-Matthew Larsen

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