Welcome to The Philadelphia Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• A local Philadelphia business owner is nationally recognized

• Upcoming 76ers home games

• A deep dive into the life of Grace Kelly

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”

– Dr. Seuss

Photo of the Week

Philadelphia 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!

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is home to one of the most iconic sets of steps in the world, thanks to a famous film. In addition to its 'Rocky' fame, the museum houses a collection of armor and weaponry that is renowned for being one of the largest of its kind in the world. Which country's historical armory forms a significant part of this collection?

A) Japan

B) Germany

C) France

D) England

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Lovett Industrial acquired a 109,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Philadelphia, planning to redevelop it into a 176,000 square foot industrial facility. The location offers direct access to downtown Philadelphia and significant consumer bases, enhancing its potential for logistics and distribution users​​. (link)

A local Philadelphia business owner, Mitchell, was nationally recognized for supporting the American Heart Association's mission. He was celebrated for his efforts in health equity, advocating for healthy policies and system changes. Mitchell, a franchise owner and coach, was inspired by his friend's heart attack experience to improve community health and wellness​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

CRB, a global provider of solutions to life sciences and food and beverage industries, relocated its Philadelphia operations to Conshohocken. This move positions CRB closer to clients in Philadelphia's biopharma hub, enhancing their ability to deliver for clients and employees in this critical market​. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Philadelphia Flyers faced the New Jersey Devils in an NHL game. Despite battling back from deficits, the Flyers lost in sudden death overtime. The game was marked by strong performances from players like Morgan Frost and Tyson Foerster, and goalie Carter Hart made 31 saves. This game started the Flyers' eight-game point streak, where they went 6-0-2​​. (link)

Eagles Playoff Spot and Hurts' Health: The Philadelphia Eagles clinched a playoff spot, but there was uncertainty around quarterback Jalen Hurts' availability due to illness. This raised questions ahead of their Week 15 game against Seattle. (link)

Seahawks Break Streak with Win over Eagles: The Seattle Seahawks ended their losing streak with a 20-17 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. The close win was marked by a late touchdown pass from Drew Lock. (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

🏀 Minnesota Timberwolves at Philadelphia 76ers (December 20): The Philadelphia 76ers host the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Wells Fargo Center, offering a thrilling NBA matchup. (link)

🏀 Northwestern Wildcats at Temple Owls Women's Basketball (December 21): A college basketball game featuring the Northwestern Wildcats against the Temple Owls at the Liacouras Center. (link)

🏀 Rosemont Ravens at La Salle Explorers Men's Basketball (December 21): The La Salle Explorers men's basketball team plays against the Rosemont Ravens at Tom Gola Arena at TruMark Financial Center. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra: Nicholas McGegan – Handel’s Messiah (December 20 - 21): A classical performance by the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra at Verizon Hall at The Kimmel Center, featuring Handel's Messiah. (link)

🎸 Grayscale (December 22, 2023): Grayscale will be performing at The Fillmore Philadelphia, bringing their unique blend of rock to the stage. (link)

🎶 Philadelphia Orchestra: Justin Freer - Elf in Concert (December 23, 2023): Enjoy a festive concert with the Philadelphia Orchestra performing "Elf in Concert" at Verizon Hall at The Kimmel Center. (link)

Family

🧸 Teddy Bear Tea at the Mary Cassatt Tea Room at The Rittenhouse Hotel (December 21): This event at the Mary Cassatt Tea Room in The Rittenhouse Hotel offers a special menu for kids including hot chocolate and mini-cupcakes, alongside traditional tea service options for adults. It's a cozy, elegant experience for the whole family. Reservations are required​​. (link)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Philadelphia in a video game” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Philadelphia History

The Liberty Bell’s Last Ring (1846)

The Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence and liberty, famously cracked in 1846 while being rung on George Washington’s birthday. This incident marked the last time the bell rang, solidifying its status as an enduring symbol of American history. The bell, originally cast in 1752, had been recast twice due to cracking and was used to summon lawmakers to legislative sessions and townspeople for public meetings.

Located in Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell was an eyewitness to many key events in American history, including the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Its inscription, "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants Thereof," has served as a universal message of freedom.

Today, the Liberty Bell resides in the Liberty Bell Center in Independence National Historical Park, attracting visitors from around the world. Its legacy extends beyond its physical presence, symbolizing the struggle for liberty and justice. The story of the bell, including its final ring, continues to be a point of historical reflection and inspiration in Philadelphia, reminding citizens and visitors alike of the city’s pivotal role in American history.

Famous Philadelphians

Grace Kelly: 1929-1982

Grace Kelly, renowned as an iconic film actress and later as Princess of Monaco, was born and raised in Philadelphia. Her remarkable journey from the streets of East Falls to the palace of Monaco is a story of elegance, talent, and grace.

Philadelphia Beginnings (1929-1947) 

Born into a prominent Philadelphia family, Grace Kelly's early life in the city's East Falls neighborhood shaped her poised and dignified persona. Her father, a successful businessman and Olympic athlete, instilled a sense of discipline and ambition in her from a young age.

Education and Early Acting Ambitions (1947-1951) 

Kelly attended the prestigious Ravenhill Academy and the Stevens School in Philadelphia. Her involvement in school plays and local theatrical productions sparked her interest in acting, setting the stage for her future career.

Rise to Hollywood Stardom (1951-1955) 

Leaving Philadelphia behind, Kelly pursued acting in New York, quickly transitioning to a successful Hollywood career. Her roles in films like "Rear Window" and "Dial M for Murder" showcased her talent and captivated audiences.

Academy Award and Critical Acclaim (1954) 

Her performance in "The Country Girl" earned Kelly an Academy Award for Best Actress. This achievement highlighted her acting prowess and marked a high point in her cinematic career.

Royal Marriage and Transition to Princess (1956) 

Kelly's marriage to Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1956 marked her transition from Hollywood royalty to actual royalty. The fairytale wedding captivated the world, including her hometown of Philadelphia.

Philanthropy and Life as Princess of Monaco (1957-1982) 

As Princess Grace, she engaged in significant philanthropic work, balancing her royal duties with her commitment to humanitarian causes. Her grace and compassion shone in her public life and charitable endeavors.

Connection to Philadelphia (Throughout Life) 

Despite her global fame, Kelly maintained a connection to Philadelphia. She often spoke fondly of her upbringing and the values instilled in her in the City of Brotherly Love.

Tragic Passing and Legacy (1982) 

Grace Kelly's untimely death in 1982 was a shock to the world and deeply felt in Philadelphia. Her legacy as a symbol of elegance and humanitarianism endures, with her life story continuing to inspire.

Key Achievements of Grace Kelly:

• Became one of Hollywood’s most beloved actresses, with roles in classic films.

• Won an Oscar for Best Actress, showcasing her talent on the global stage.

• Her marriage to Prince Rainier III was a celebrated union of American and European cultures.

• Remembered for her philanthropic efforts and commitment to humanitarian causes.

• Continues to be celebrated in Philadelphia as a native daughter who made a lasting impact on the world.

Grace Kelly's journey from Philadelphia to Monaco embodies a narrative of aspiration, compassion, and elegance. Her enduring legacy, rooted in her Philadelphia upbringing, continues to captivate both her hometown and the world.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen