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Welcome to The Philadelphia Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• AI Art of the week

• Upcoming Philadelphia 76ers home game

• A deep dive into the life of Marian Anderson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”

—Winston Churchill

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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!

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

Big Lots to close 46 more stores, including Cherry Hill location.(link)

🏒Sports

Nick Castellanos' roller coaster Game 2 emphasizes Philadelphia Phillies' historic comeback over Mets.(link)

Philadelphia Phillies Have Potential Star Outfielder Emerging in Minor Leagues.(link)

🏦Finance

PhilaPort plans to create 9,000 jobs with $2B in capital investments, including possible cruise terminal.(link)

NY investment giant buys Northeast Philadelphia warehouse for $83.5M.(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. Brooklyn Nets
Wells Fargo Center Philadelphia, PA
Wednesday October 16 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 XPN Welcomes Maggie Rogers: The Don't Forget Me Tour
Wells Fargo Center Philadelphia, PA
Tuesday October 15 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

🎤 Blxst - I'll Always Come Find You Tour
Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia
Wednesday October 16 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎭 Walnut Street Theatre's JERSEY BOYS
Walnut Street Theatre Philadelphia, PA
Wednesday October 16 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Family

📱 Help My Kids Won't Get Off Their Phones! Parent Cafe
Edward T. Steel School, Wayne Avenue, Philadelphia,
Wednesday, October 16 | 11am - 2pm 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 “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

1799: The Pennsylvania Abolition Society founds the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas.

In 1799, a significant event in the history of both Philadelphia and the African American community occurred: the founding of the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas. Established by the Pennsylvania Abolition Society, this church became the first African American Episcopal Church in the United States. Its creation was a direct response to racial discrimination in religious spaces and a significant step towards providing African Americans with a dedicated place of worship and community.

The church was founded by Absalom Jones, an African American abolitionist and clergyman, who became its first rector. Jones had previously been a lay preacher at St. George's Methodist Episcopal Church, but due to racial segregation policies, he led a group of African Americans to establish their own church. The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas was more than just a place of worship; it was a symbol of empowerment and independence for the African American community in Philadelphia.

The establishment of the African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in 1799 was a landmark moment in the history of Philadelphia. It represented a significant step in the fight against racial segregation and discrimination. The church played a vital role in the spiritual and social lives of its members, also becoming a center for education and abolitionist activity. Today, the church's legacy continues, representing a pivotal moment in the journey towards racial equality and social justice.

Famous People From Philadelphia

Marian Anderson (1897–1993): Pioneering African American opera singer.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1897-1919)

Marian Anderson was born on February 27, 1897, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Growing up in a modest but musically inclined family, she displayed her singing talent from a young age. Anderson sang in the choir of the Union Baptist Church, where her remarkable voice was first recognized. Despite facing financial difficulties, her community supported her musical education through fundraising efforts.

Rise to Prominence (1920-1938)

Anderson's career began to gain traction in the 1920s and 1930s. She performed in various American venues and eventually traveled to Europe, where she studied and performed extensively. Her European tours were highly successful, earning her critical acclaim and significantly boosting her reputation as an outstanding opera singer.

Historic Lincoln Memorial Concert (1939)

In 1939, after being denied the opportunity to perform at Constitution Hall by the Daughters of the American Revolution due to racial discrimination, Anderson performed an iconic open-air concert at the Lincoln Memorial. This event, attended by thousands and broadcast nationwide, became a significant moment in the civil rights movement.

Continued Success and Breakthroughs (1940-1955)

Anderson's career continued to flourish in the 1940s and 1950s. She became the first African American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City in 1955. Her performances across the United States and Europe garnered immense respect and admiration.

Civil Rights Advocacy (Throughout Career)

Throughout her career, Anderson was an advocate for civil rights, using her fame to break barriers and fight against racial segregation and prejudice in the arts. Her career choices and public appearances often held symbolic significance in the struggle for racial equality in America.

Later Years and Retirement (1955-1993)

After a distinguished career, Anderson retired from singing in 1965. She spent her later years engaging in community work and inspiring young musicians. Marian Anderson passed away on April 8, 1993, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer in music and civil rights.

Marian Anderson's Key Achievements:

• Pioneering African American opera singer with an internationally acclaimed career.

• First African American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera.

• Performed a historic concert at the Lincoln Memorial, becoming a symbol of the civil rights movement.

• Received numerous awards and honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Marian Anderson's journey from a church choir in Philadelphia to the world's most prestigious opera stages is a testament to her extraordinary talent and resilience. Her groundbreaking achievements in the face of racial barriers not only paved the way for future African American artists but also contributed significantly to the civil rights movement. Anderson remains an enduring symbol of grace, dignity, and exceptional artistry in the face of adversity.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Yannick Lyons

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