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Welcome to The Philadelphia Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Philadelphia mayor strikes a deal with the 76ers

• Snap unveils latest AR glasses

• A deep dive into the life of Teddy Pendergrass

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Complexity is your enemy. Any fool can make something complex, It takes a genius to make something simple.”

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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!

Philadelphia’s famous sandwich, the cheesesteak, was invented in what decade?

A) 1920s

B) 1930s

C) 1940s

D) 1950s

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The iconic symbol of American independence, now housed in Philadelphia, that was originally cast in London in 1752 is A) The Liberty Bell.

News

💼Business

Philadelphia Unveils First-Ever Refrigerated Cream Cheese Frosting in the U.S. (link)

Snap unveils latest AR glasses despite ongoing struggles in core ad business. (link)

🏒Sports

Philadelphia mayor strikes a deal with the 76ers to build a new arena downtown. (link)

Nick Foles, A Philadelphia Legend Retires, Honored Before Monday Night Game Against Falcons. (link)

🏦Finance

Philadelphia investment bank Mufson Howe Hunter sets up shop in D.C. region. (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 Union vs. Atlanta United FC
Subaru Park Chester, PA
Saturday, September 28 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

⚾ Savannah Bananas vs. Savannah Party Animals
Citizens Bank Park Philadelphia, PA
Saturday, September 28 | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 Philadelphia Orchestra
Marian Anderson Hall - Kimmel Center Philadelphia, PA
Saturday, September 28 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎤 WXPN Welcomes Michael Kiwanuka & Brittany Howard
The Met Presented by Highmark Philadelphia, PA
Sunday, September 29 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

Family

🥕 Dreamland Kids: Carrots & Craft
Dreamland Farmstead 7318 Steinsburg Road #3109 Coopersburg, PA
Friday, September 27 · 10 - 11:30am 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 an art district where the buildings are canvases for digital art.” 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

1805: Lewis and Clark Expedition returns to Philadelphia.

In 1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition made a triumphant return to Philadelphia, marking the end of their historic journey of exploration and discovery. The expedition, led by Capt. Meriwether Lewis and Lieut. William Clark, had set out in 1804 to explore the Louisiana Territory and the Pacific Northwest. The return of the expedition to Philadelphia was a momentous occasion, as it brought with it a wealth of new specimens and artifacts collected during the journey. The American Philosophical Society in Philadelphia received a parcel containing over sixty plants, rocks, and fossils collected by Meriwether Lewis, further solidifying the city's ties to the expedition.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition's return to Philadelphia in 1805 was a significant event that highlighted the expedition's achievements and contributions to the field of exploration. The expedition's journey had begun in St. Louis, Missouri, and had taken the explorers up the Missouri River to the Pacific Northwest and back. The return of the expedition to Philadelphia also marked the culmination of a long and arduous journey that had spanned several years. The specimens and artifacts collected by Lewis and Clark provided valuable insights into the natural history and geography of the western frontier, further enriching the scientific knowledge of the time.

The triumphant return of the Lewis and Clark Expedition to Philadelphia in 1805 was a testament to the courage, determination, and spirit of exploration that defined the expedition. The city of Philadelphia played a significant role in the expedition, as it became a hub for the study and preservation of the specimens and artifacts collected during the journey. The return of the expedition to Philadelphia was a moment of celebration and reflection, as it marked the successful completion of one of the most ambitious and influential exploratory missions in American history.

Famous People From Philadelphia

Teddy Pendergrass (1950–2010): R&B and soul singer who gained fame as the lead singer of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes and as a successful solo artist.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1950–1968)

Theodore DeReese Pendergrass was born on March 26, 1950, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Raised in the tough neighborhood of North Philadelphia, Pendergrass discovered his love for music early on, singing in church choirs and learning to play the drums. His mother, a single parent, encouraged his musical talents, recognizing that music could be his path to a better life. By his teenage years, Pendergrass was performing in local bands and honing his skills as a drummer and vocalist. His early exposure to the vibrant Philadelphia music scene laid the groundwork for his future success as one of the most iconic voices in R&B and soul music.

Rise to Fame with Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes (1969–1975)

Teddy Pendergrass's big break came in 1970 when he was recruited as the drummer for Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, a Philadelphia-based R&B group. His powerful voice soon took center stage, and he became the group's lead singer. Under the guidance of legendary producer and songwriter Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, the group signed with Philadelphia International Records and produced a string of hits, including ""If You Don’t Know Me by Now"" and ""The Love I Lost."" Pendergrass’s smooth yet powerful vocals and commanding stage presence quickly made him the star of the group. His work with the Blue Notes helped define the Philadelphia soul sound of the 1970s, establishing him as one of the era's leading vocalists.

Solo Career and Superstar Status (1976–1982)

In 1976, Teddy Pendergrass launched his solo career, and it was met with immediate success. His debut solo album, ""Teddy Pendergrass,"" featured hits like ""I Don't Love You Anymore"" and ""The Whole Town's Laughing at Me."" Pendergrass's solo career continued to soar with subsequent albums, including ""Life Is a Song Worth Singing"" (1978) and ""Teddy"" (1979), which produced timeless classics like ""Close the Door"" and ""Turn Off the Lights."" Known for his rich baritone voice and sensual ballads, Pendergrass became one of the most successful R&B artists of the late 1970s and early 1980s. His ""women only"" concerts became legendary, solidifying his status as a sex symbol and a major star in the music industry.

Connection to Philadelphia and Impact on the City (1973–1982)

Philadelphia was not just the city where Teddy Pendergrass was born; it was also the heart of his music career. The city's vibrant music scene, particularly the influence of Philadelphia International Records, played a crucial role in shaping Pendergrass's sound. Philadelphia's rich history of soul music provided the perfect backdrop for his rise to fame, and Pendergrass's success brought pride to the city. Throughout his career, he remained connected to Philadelphia, often performing at local venues and supporting various community initiatives. His contributions to the city's cultural legacy are immeasurable, and his influence on Philadelphia's music scene remains strong to this day.

Tragic Accident and Resilience (1982–1990)

In 1982, at the height of his career, Teddy Pendergrass was involved in a tragic car accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down. The accident could have ended his career, but Pendergrass's resilience and determination led him to continue making music despite his physical limitations. In 1984, he made a triumphant return to the stage at the Live Aid concert in Philadelphia, where he received a standing ovation. Pendergrass continued to record and perform, releasing albums such as ""Love Language"" (1984) and ""Joy"" (1988), which produced the hit single of the same name. His ability to overcome adversity and continue his career made him an inspiration to many.

Legacy and Recognition (1991–2010)

Teddy Pendergrass’s later years were marked by continued contributions to music and philanthropy. He established the Teddy Pendergrass Alliance, a foundation dedicated to helping individuals with spinal cord injuries. His work in the community and his advocacy for those with disabilities earned him widespread respect and admiration. Pendergrass passed away on January 13, 2010, but his legacy as one of the greatest voices in R&B and soul music lives on. His contributions to the Philadelphia music scene and his influence on future generations of artists have secured his place as a true legend in American music.

Key Achievements:

• Gained fame as the lead singer of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, defining the Philadelphia soul sound.

• Achieved superstar status as a solo artist with hits like ""Close the Door"" and ""Turn Off the Lights.""

• Overcame a life-changing accident to continue making music and became an advocate for people with disabilities.

Teddy Pendergrass’s journey from the streets of North Philadelphia to international stardom reflects his extraordinary talent and resilience. His deep connection to Philadelphia’s music scene was central to his success, and his influence on the city’s cultural landscape is undeniable. Pendergrass’s legacy as a pioneering voice in R&B and soul music, combined with his inspiring story of overcoming adversity, ensures his place as one of the most iconic figures in American music history.

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-Matthew Larsen

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