Philadelphia Newsletter (July 29th)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

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Welcome to The Philadelphia Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Krispy Kreme sells majority stake

  • Upcoming Philadelphia Phillies home game

  • A deep dive into the life of Stephen Girard

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”

— Maya Angelou

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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!

What famous Philadelphia building is home to the Liberty Bell?

A) Independence Hall

B) Pennsylvania State House

C) Liberty Bell Center

D) National Constitution Center

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The Philadelphia Experiment, a supposed naval military experiment, allegedly took place in A) 1943.

News

💼Business

Polsinelli Opens in Philadelphia With 20 From Holland & Knight. (link)

Philly food and beverage robotics company secures $10M Series A and major manufacturing partnership. (link)

🏒Sports

Philly teams unite to hold epic Philadelphia Girls Sports initiative. (link)

Philadelphia Eagles' Jalen Hurts Creating New Foundation for Community. (link)

🏦Finance

Krispy Kreme sells majority stake in Insomnia Cookies for $127M. (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 Phillies vs. New York Yankees
Citizens Bank Park Philadelphia, PA
Tuesday July 30 | 6:40 PM | (more info)

Liverpool FC v. Arsenal
Lincoln Financial Field Philadelphia, PA
Wednesday July 31 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Reyna Tropical
World Cafe Live-Philadelphia , PA
Tuesday July 30 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎶 Oston
World Cafe Live-Philadelphia
Wednesday July 31 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🍴 Young Chefs: Kids' Cooking Class
172 Churchtown Road Pennsville Township,
Monday, July 29 · 4:30 - 7:30pm 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 where traditional and digital art forms merge in public spaces.” 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

1971: Franklin Mills Mall opens, one of the largest in the United States.

In 1971, the Franklin Mills Mall opened its doors, marking a significant milestone in Philadelphia's retail landscape. Situated in Northeast Philadelphia, the mall was designed in the shape of a thunderbolt, paying homage to Benjamin Franklin's iconic kite-and-key experiment. With its grand opening, the mall became one of the largest in the United States, housing 200 stores, a movie theater, two food courts, and seven theme restaurants. Over the years, the mall has undergone renovations and rebranding, eventually being renamed Philadelphia Mills in 2014 by the Simon Property Group. Today, Philadelphia Mills continues to be a popular shopping destination, offering a diverse range of retail experiences for locals and visitors alike.

Philadelphia Mills, formerly known as Franklin Mills, has become a beloved landmark in the city, attracting shoppers from all over the region. The mall's expansive retail floor area of 1,776,000 square feet and its strategic location near Bensalem in Bucks County make it a bustling hub for retail therapy and entertainment. With over 200 stores, including anchor stores and specialty outlets, Philadelphia Mills offers a diverse selection of brand-name merchandise, catering to a wide range of shopping preferences. Additionally, the mall's convenient amenities and transportation options, such as daily bus routes and easy access from major highways, make it easily accessible for visitors.

The transformation of Franklin Mills into Philadelphia Mills reflects the evolution of retail and consumer experiences over the years. As the mall continues to adapt to changing trends and consumer demands, it remains a vibrant and dynamic destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Whether it's exploring the latest fashion trends, enjoying a movie night, or indulging in a diverse culinary experience, Philadelphia Mills continues to be a cornerstone of retail culture in Philadelphia, offering a memorable and enjoyable shopping experience for all who visit.

Famous People From Philadelphia

Stephen Girard (1750–1831): Philanthropist and banker.

Stephen Girard, a prominent figure in Philadelphia's history, was a renowned philanthropist and banker whose legacy continues to inspire generations. From his early life in France to his influential role in shaping Philadelphia's landscape, Girard's story is one of resilience, compassion, and entrepreneurial success.

Early Life and Maritime Career (1750-1776)

Stephen Girard was born in 1750 in France and, like his father, pursued a career as a mariner. His travels led him to Philadelphia in 1776, where he established himself as a prominent figure in the city's maritime industry. Girard's early years in Philadelphia laid the foundation for his future success as a businessman and philanthropist.

Entrepreneurial Ventures and Banking (1776-1800)

Girard's entrepreneurial spirit and keen business acumen propelled him to great success in Philadelphia. He engaged in trade with the Caribbean, dealing in commodities such as sugar and coffee. His ventures extended to banking, where he made significant contributions to the financial landscape of the city, establishing himself as a leading figure in the banking industry.

Philanthropy and Civic Leadership (1800-1820)

Girard's commitment to philanthropy and civic leadership became evident as he supported various charitable causes in Philadelphia. During the yellow fever epidemics that plagued the city, Girard played a pivotal role in leading relief efforts and funding hospital operations. His tireless efforts to combat the epidemics showcased his dedication to the well-being of the city's residents.

Girard College and Educational Legacy (1820-1831)

One of Girard's most enduring legacies is Girard College, an institution he established to provide educational opportunities for poor orphan boys. His vision for the college reflected his commitment to providing access to education for those in greatest need, leaving a lasting impact on the educational landscape of Philadelphia.

Legacy and Enduring Impact

Stephen Girard's legacy extends far beyond his financial success. His philanthropic endeavors, civic leadership, and commitment to education have left an enduring impact on Philadelphia and beyond. His story serves as a shining example of resilience, compassion, and the power of philanthropy to transform communities.

Key Achievements

  • Amassed a wealth estimated at more than $6 million at the time of his death, earned through his career as a merchant and banker.

  • Supported various charitable causes in Philadelphia, including leading relief efforts during yellow fever epidemics.

  • Established Girard College, providing educational opportunities for poor orphan boys.

  • Played a pivotal role in shaping Philadelphia's financial and educational landscape.

  • Remembered as a prominent figure in Philadelphia's history, leaving a legacy of philanthropy and civic leadership.

Stephen Girard's life story is a testament to the transformative power of philanthropy and the enduring impact of compassionate leadership. His contributions to Philadelphia's history and his commitment to education continue to inspire and uplift future generations.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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