Welcome to The Philadelphia Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• New tech-driven mini golf venue opening in Center City

• Upcoming Flyers home game

• A deep dive into the life of Grace Kelly

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened."

– Lao Tzu

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 famous American writer and poet lived in Philadelphia and is known for "The Raven"?

A) Walt Whitman

B) Edgar Allan Poe

C) Emily Dickinson

D) Robert Frost

Answer to Last Week's Trivia

Philadelphia's oldest continuously inhabited street is C) Elfreth's Alley.

News

💼 Business

Victor Raymond Tabaac launched Philly AI Connect to foster a community around AI and ML technologies in Philadelphia, aiming to accelerate their adoption​​. (link)

Puttshack opened a tech-driven mini golf venue in Center City, Philadelphia, blending entertainment with globally-inspired cuisine​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Phillies signed Spencer Turnbull to a 1-year contract worth $2 million, with an additional $2 million in incentives. (link)

Despite outfielder Marsh's recovery from knee surgery, the Phillies decided not to add another outfielder, expecting Marsh back by Opening Day. (link)

In an unexpected turn, the Sixers, considered 11.5-point underdogs, ended the Cavaliers' 9-game winning streak, showcasing impressive performances from their players. (link)

The Flyers showcased a strong mentality leading to their fourth straight win, emphasizing the team's resilience and strategy​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

The wife of a former Philadelphia Eagles player is making strides in the real estate sector by aiming to simplify the moving process for athletes. (link)

The owner of the Fashion District Philadelphia has successfully paid off the majority of a $73 million loan on the mall. (link)

The City of Philadelphia has acquired the site of a former strip club, situated in a prime location, for $7.1 million. (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 Flyers vs. New York Rangers
Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA
Saturday, Feb 24th | (More Info)

🏀 Rhode Island Rams at St. Joseph's Women's Basketball
Hagan Arena, Philadelphia, PA
Saturday, Feb 24th | (More Info)

📚 Children’s Programming: Reflex Sports
Roxborough Library, Philadelphia, PA
Friday, Feb 23rd | (More Info)

🏀 MBB vs. St. Bonaventure Bonnies
TruMark Financial Center, Philadelphia, PA
Wednesday, Feb 21st | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Andrea Bocelli
Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA
Wednesday, Feb 21, 2024 | (More Info)

🎶 Keith Sweat with Pretty Ricky, Tyrese
Liacouras Center, Philadelphia, PA
Thursday, Feb 22, 2024 | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎤 Jason Isbell with Aimee Mann
The Met, Philadelphia, PA
Friday, Feb 23, 2024 | 8:00 PM | (More Info)

🎷 White Denim
Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA
Friday, Feb 23, 2024 | (More Info)

Family

⛸ Winter at Dilworth Park
Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th Street
Daily through Sunday, Feb. 25th | (More Info)

🎭 Groucho: A Life in Revue at Walnut Street Theatre
Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut Street
Tuesday, Feb. 19th | (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 “A steampunk-themed Philadelphia with Victorian architecture” 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

1793: The Yellow Fever Epidemic strikes the city

In 1793, Philadelphia faced one of its most severe challenges: the Yellow Fever Epidemic. This devastating outbreak began in August and lasted until November, profoundly impacting the city, which was then the nation's capital. The disease, transmitted by mosquitoes, spread rapidly in the densely populated urban areas, causing widespread panic and chaos.

The epidemic claimed the lives of approximately 5,000 people, nearly 10% of Philadelphia's population at the time. The city's infrastructure was overwhelmed, with hospitals and healthcare workers struggling to cope with the surge in patients. Notable figures like Dr. Benjamin Rush, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and a prominent physician, were at the forefront of treating the afflicted, though the medical understanding of the disease was limited.

The 1793 Yellow Fever Epidemic in Philadelphia had significant social and economic repercussions. It led to a mass exodus of residents, including President George Washington and other government officials. The epidemic exposed the need for improved public health measures and sanitation in the city, influencing future public health policies. It remains a significant event in Philadelphia's history, marking a period of crisis and resilience.

Famous People From Philadelphia

Grace Kelly (1929–1982)

Early Life and Education (1929-1947)

Grace Kelly was born on November 12, 1929, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, into a wealthy and influential family. She grew up in a nurturing environment that encouraged her artistic interests. Kelly attended prestigious schools and developed an early passion for acting, participating in school plays and community theater.

Acting Career and Rise to Stardom (1947-1956)

Kelly moved to New York City to pursue her acting career, enrolling in the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She began her career in theater and television before transitioning to film. Her natural elegance and talent caught the attention of Hollywood, and she quickly became a sought-after actress. Her performances in "High Noon" (1952), "Dial M for Murder" (1954), and "Rear Window" (1954) earned her critical acclaim.

Academy Award and Acting Apex (1954-1955)

In 1954, Kelly's performance in "The Country Girl" earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood's leading ladies. Her captivating screen presence and sophisticated persona made her a favorite of audiences and directors alike.

Marriage to Prince Rainier III and Becoming Princess of Monaco (1956)

In a fairy-tale turn of events, Kelly met Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1955 and married him in 1956, becoming Princess Grace of Monaco. This high-profile marriage was one of the most talked-about events of the decade, and Kelly retired from acting to focus on her royal duties.

Philanthropy and Cultural Contributions (1956-1982)

As Princess of Monaco, Kelly was deeply involved in philanthropic and cultural activities. She established the Princess Grace Foundation to support local artisans and craftspeople and was active in numerous charitable organizations, focusing on arts, children, and health.

Family Life and Motherhood (1957-1982)

Grace and Rainier had three children: Princess Caroline, Prince Albert, and Princess Stéphanie. Kelly was a devoted mother and worked to balance her family life with her royal responsibilities.

Legacy in Film and Fashion (Throughout Career and Posthumous)

Kelly's style and grace made her a fashion icon, influencing trends and designers. Her acting career, though brief, left a lasting impact on Hollywood, and she remains a symbol of elegance and sophistication.

Grace Kelly's Key Achievements:

• Acclaimed actress with an Academy Award for Best Actress.

• Became Princess of Monaco, significantly impacting Monaco's cultural and philanthropic landscape.

• Fashion icon renowned for her timeless elegance and style.

• Contributed to the arts through the Princess Grace Foundation and other cultural endeavors.

Grace Kelly's remarkable transformation from a celebrated Hollywood actress to a beloved princess captured the world's imagination. Her legacy extends beyond her film career, as she became a symbol of grace, elegance, and philanthropy. Her contributions to the arts and her enduring influence in fashion and cinema make her an iconic figure in both Hollywood and royal history.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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