Welcome to The Philadelphia Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Eagles announce initial 53-man roster

• AI art of the week

• A deep dive into the life of Cherelle Lesley Parker

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Whether you think you can or you can't, either way you are right.”

—Henry Ford

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-born actor is famous for his role as “The Tramp” in silent film era?

A) Charlie Chaplin

B) Buster Keaton

C) Harold Lloyd

D) Rudolph Valentino

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual event, famously held in Philadelphia on New Year’s Day, known for its elaborate costumes and performances is C) The Mummers Parade.

News

💼Business

Proposed Philadelphia 76ers arena could damage Chinatown, community impact report shows. (link)

🏒Sports

Philadelphia Eagles Cut John Ross. (link)

Eagles announce initial 53-man roster for 2024 season. (link)

🏦Finance

TD Bank Named a Top 50 Community-Minded Business by Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia and Points of Light. (link)

JVS Philadelphia Fund for Women Awards $200K to Four Women-Owned Businesses in Latest Round. (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

🏋️ Kettlebells and Calisthenics with Word Life Yoga
Drexel Square 3001 Market Street Philadelphia,
Monday, September 2 · 6 - 7pm EDT | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Lucki: Gemini Tour
The Fillmore Philadelphia
Tue • Sep 03 • 8:00 PM | (more info)

🎸 Goth Babe
Franklin Music Hall Philadelphia, PA
Tuesday September 3 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎨 The Playground by Memli
Coffee Zeit 246 Race Street Philadelphia, PA
Monday, September 2 · 2 - 4pm EDT | (more info)

🔍 Scavenger Hunt Philadelphia
3820 N 2nd St Philadelphia,
Tuesday, September 3 | 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 “Urban landscape of Philadelphia with a focus on pedestrian pathways and green 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

1954: The U.S. Supreme Court orders the desegregation of Girard College.

In 1954, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling ordering the desegregation of Girard College, a private boarding school in Philadelphia. This decision was a significant step in the fight against racial segregation, as it challenged the admissions policy of the school, which had previously excluded African-American students based on the requirements of Stephen Girard's will. The legal battle to desegregate Girard College began in 1953 when a suit was filed in U.S. District Court by the city and state trusts to admit African-American students to the school. The Supreme Court's ruling marked the beginning of a long struggle for racial integration at Girard College, culminating in the admission of black students in 1968.

The desegregation of Girard College was a pivotal moment in the civil rights movement in Philadelphia, reflecting the broader national effort to dismantle racial segregation in educational institutions. The legal battle and subsequent Supreme Court ruling set a precedent for challenging discriminatory admissions policies and marked a significant victory in the fight for equal access to education. The decision to desegregate Girard College was a testament to the perseverance and determination of civil rights activists, who continued to advocate for racial equality in the face of institutional resistance.

The desegregation of Girard College was a turning point in the history of Philadelphia and the nation, symbolizing the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality. The Supreme Court's order to desegregate the school was a crucial step forward in the fight against segregation and discrimination, paving the way for greater inclusivity and diversity in educational institutions. The legacy of this landmark ruling continues to resonate, serving as a reminder of the importance of upholding civil rights and ensuring equal opportunities for all students, regardless of race or background.

Famous People From Philadelphia

Cherelle Lesley Parker: 1972-Present.

Cherelle Lesley Parker, born on September 10, 1972, is an American politician who has served as the 100th Mayor of Philadelphia since 2024. She is the first woman to hold the office. Parker's political career has been marked by significant achievements and a commitment to public service.

Early Political Career and State Legislature (2005-2015)

Cherelle Parker began her political journey by serving in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 2005 to 2015, representing the 200th district in Northwest Philadelphia. Her tenure in the state legislature showcased her dedication to advocating for her constituents and addressing key issues affecting the community.

Philadelphia City Council and Majority Leader (2015-2022)

After her tenure in the state legislature, Parker transitioned to the Philadelphia City Council in 2015 and was re-elected in 2019. She served as the majority leader from 2020 to 2022, playing a pivotal role in shaping policies and initiatives that aimed to improve the city's welfare and development.

Historic Mayoral Election and Inauguration (2023-2024)

In 2023, Cherelle Parker embarked on a historic mayoral campaign, marking a significant milestone in her political career. She successfully secured the position of the 100th Mayor of Philadelphia, making history as the first woman to lead the city and hold the office in 341 years. Her inauguration on January 2, 2024, marked a new chapter for Philadelphia.

Commitment to Public Service and Community Development

Throughout her career, Mayor Parker has been dedicated to making Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city in the nation, with economic opportunity for all. Her focus on public service and community development has been evident in her various roles, reflecting her passion for uplifting the city and its residents.

Key Achievements:

• Becoming the first woman to hold the office of Mayor of Philadelphia, marking a historic milestone in the city's political landscape.

• Serving as a state legislator in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, advocating for the 200th district in Northwest Philadelphia.

• Playing a pivotal role as majority leader in the Philadelphia City Council, contributing to the city's policy-making and development.

• Inaugurated as the 100th Mayor of Philadelphia, opening a new chapter in the city's history and leadership.

• Dedicated to making Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city in the nation, with economic opportunity for all.

Cherelle Lesley Parker's story is one of resilience, dedication, and historic achievement. As the first woman to hold the office of Mayor of Philadelphia, she continues to inspire future generations and shape the city's future with her commitment to public service and community welfare.

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-Matthew Larsen

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