Wawa Welcome America Press Samples

SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2015Noon – 4 p.m.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRESS CONTACTS:Lauren Cox

[email protected]

Randy Giancaterino267-207-5068

[email protected] ADVISORY

WAWA Welcome America! Kicks Off with Family Day Celebrating 150th Anniversary of the 1st Reading of “Alice in Wonderland”

WHAT: Wawa Welcome America! Festival begins with Family Day at the Shops at Liberty Place. Enjoy an afternoon of activities celebrating the 150 th anniversary of the first reading of “Alice in Wonderland.” Children of all ages will enjoy games, face painting, free books and live performances in the rotunda.

KEY VISUALS: Kids playing with giant chess pieces, Connect 4, and other games Sponsor activations Live performances from local entertainers

WHEN:Saturday, June 27, Noon - 4 p.m.

WHERE:The Shops at Liberty Place (Rotunda), 1625 Chestnut Street

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:TV Parking: North side of Chestnut St., btw. 16th and 17th sts.

Wawa Welcome America! is a multi-day festival that celebrates America’s birthday in America’s birthplace, Philadelphia. Wawa joined the festival as the title sponsor in 2010. For more information, please visit www.welcomeamerica.com, like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/wawawelcomeamerica) and follow us on Twitter and Instagram (@July4thPhilly).

###SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2015 Noon – 4 p.m.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRESS CONTACTS:

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Lauren Cox267-251-2472

[email protected]



Wawa Welcome America! Gives Back with Community Day in Port Richmond

WHAT: A new addition to the Wawa Welcome America! schedule, Community Day, invites residents and visitors to take part in revitalizing one of Philadelphia’s community centers, Samuel Recreation Center. Part of the reason we selected the city’s Port Richmond section is because many of the neighbors there were so kind and responsive in the aftermath of the Amtrak tragedy recently, with an outpouring to the rescuers and the victims.

KEY VISUALS: Community members and visitors painting old benches and bleachers, cleaning up around the

recreation center, and plantingWHEN:Sunday, June 28, Noon – 4 p.m.

WHERE:Samuel Recreation Center3539 Gaul St., near Tioga and Gaul Streets (Port Richmond)(In case of inclement weather, event will be held inside of recreation center.)

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:TV Parking: Gaul St., btw. E. Tioga and E. Atlantic sts.


###MONDAY, JUNE 29, 201510 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.


267-251-2472 [email protected]

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Randy Giancaterino 267-207-5068


Go 4th & Learn Series Kicks Off with a Day of Educational Fun at the Franklin Institute in the Morning; Philly @ the Movies Series

Begins with “BIG HERO 6” at NightWHAT: Go 4th & Learn About Science at the Franklin Institute kicks off with special readings, free book giveaways and educational fun! Mayor Michael A. Nutter will lead book readings at 11 a.m. to all visitors along with 6 ABC’s Matt O’Donnell, President and CEO of The Franklin Institute Larry Dubinski, and President and CEO of Wawa Chris Gheysen. New this year, The Franklin Institute offers FREE admission courtesy of Wawa, including the explosive demonstration of how fireworks sparkle, whistle and show colors in The Science of Fireworks live show.

KEY VISUALS Scheduled: Mayor Michael Nutter, 6 ABC’s Matt O’Donnell, President and CEO of The Franklin

Institute Larry Dubinski, and President and CEO of Wawa Chris Gheysen reading stories to children

The Science of Fireworks live show Interactive Wawa Diary exhibit Wawa mascot Wally the Goose

Also: The 2015 Philly @ The Movies series begins with Disney’s “Big Hero 6”. Attendees will be able to take photos in front of the films giant inflatable Baymax character in Franklin Square.

KEY VISUALS Moviegoers enjoying festivities at Franklin Square Inflatable Big Hero 6 character Baymax

WHEN: WHEN:Go 4th & Learn About Science Philly @ The Movies: “Big Hero 6”Monday, June 29 Monday, June 2910 a.m. – Noon 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: WHEREGo 4th & Learn About Science Philly @ The Movies: “Big Hero 6”Franklin Institute Franklin Square222 N. 20th Street 200 N. 6th Street

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mailto:[email protected]

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS: MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:Go 4th & Learn About Science Philly @ The Movies: “Big Hero 6”TV Parking: TV Parking: TV press parking is available in front of the Curb lane on 6th Street, between Racemuseum, 20th St. and Ben Franklin and Vine streets (perimeter of the park).Parkway.

**Parking and other logistics subject to change on site**


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TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 201510:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.


[email protected]



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http://www.facebook.com/wawawelcomeamerica

http://www.welcomeamerica.com/

Children’s Education Event at Philadelphia History Museum in Morning; Philly @ the Movies Series Continues with “Annie” at Night

WHAT: At Go 4th & Learn About Philadelphia at the Philadelphia History Museum, attendees will enjoy special programming and free museum admission all-day courtesy of PECO. Philadelphia History Museum Historian Dr. Cindy Little, and Director of Education and Public Policy Prudence Haines will lead book readings. Kids can also explore the museums City Stories: Introduction to Philadelphia and Face to Facebook exhibits to learn about the City of Brotherly Love. Admission to the museum is FREE all-day. KEY VISUALS:

Children and adults enjoying free admission to the Philadelphia History Museum Book readings led by Philadelphia History Museum Historian Dr. Cindy Little, and Director ofEducation and Public Policy Prudence Haines

Also: The Philly @ The Movies series continues with a free screening of the newly adapted version of “Annie” in City Hall’s Dilworth Park.

KEY VISUALS:

Philly @ the Movies: “Annie” Hundreds of Philadelphians take to Dilworth for outdoor screening of “Annie” Annie impersonator taking photos with movie-goers Children wearing red dress in the spirit of “Annie”

WHERE: WHERE:Go 4th & Learn About Philadelphia Philly @ the Movies: “Annie”Philadelphia History Museum Dilworth Park15 S. 7th Street 1 S. 15th Street

WHEN: WHEN:Go 4th & Learn About Philadelphia Philly @ the Movies: “Annie”Tuesday, June 30 Tuesday, June 3010:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m.

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS: MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:Go 4th & Learn About Philadelphia Philly @ the Movies: “Annie”TV Parking : TV Parking: 7th Street, btw. Randstead and Market sts. East side of Dilworth Park curb lane, on

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15th between JFK Blvd and Market St.

**Parking and other logistics subject to change on site*


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WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 201510 a.m. – 11 p.m.




[email protected]

NEWS ADVISORYWelcome America! Continues with Children’s Health and Fitness

at Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse in Morning Free Outdoor Screening “Rocky” in Evening at Art Museum

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WHAT: Kids break a sweat with a variety of activities at Smith Memorial Playground in East Fairmount Park during Go 4th & Learn About Fitness. Kids will enjoy the 6.5-acre playground, which includes the Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide, and more than 50 other pieces of equipment.

KEY VISUALS: Scheduled: Mayor Nutter will visit children at Smith Memorial Playground Children sliding down the Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide Zumba, face painting, arts & craft activities, and martial arts

Also: Philly @ the Movies series continues with “Rocky” on the Art Museum steps.

KEY VISUALS: Hundreds of attendees watching “Rocky”

WHERE: WHEN:Go 4th & Learn About Fitness Go 4th & Learn About FitnessSmith Memorial Playground Wednesday, July 1 from 10 a.m. – NoonEast Fairmount Park, 300 Reservoir Drive

Philly @ the Movies: “Rocky” Philly @ the Movies: “Rocky”Philadelphia Museum of Art, 26th Street Wednesday, July 1 at 9 p.m.and Benjamin Franklin Parkway

African American Museum in Philadelphia 701 Arch Street

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS: MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:Go 4th & Learn About Fitness, Philly @ the Movies: “Rocky”Smith Memorial Playground and TV Parking: Curbside in front of Playhouse museum, or on patio entering from TV Parking: Art Museum’s west entrance.Media encouraged to park in the lot in front of Smith Memorial Playground. Also: The African American Museum in Philadelphia will be open to the public from noon to 5 p.m. for FREE all day, as part of the Wawa Welcome America! Festival.


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THURSDAY, JULY 2, 201510 a.m. – 9 p.m.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PRESS CONTACTS: Lauren Cox



[email protected]

NEWS ADVISORYWawa Creates 5 Tons of Hoagie Heaven in Afternoon; Rittenhouse

Square Hosts Screening of “The Sixth Sense” at NightWHAT: During Go 4th & Learn About History the National Constitution Center will feature free admission all day, courtesy of Wawa, plus book readings and other educational activities, as part of Wawa Welcome America’s ongoing kids literacy series.

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In the afternoon, guests will enjoy lunch during Wawa Hoagie Day on the Independence Visitor Center Lawn. There will also be a hoagie building contest featuring Philadelphia police and fire personnel. Performances throughout the afternoon including the USO Show Troupe and NBC’s The Voice contestants Matthew Schuler and Audra Mclaughlin, as well as an appearance from Food Network’s Robert Irvine.

KEY VISUALS: People of all ages enjoying 5 tons of hoagies A concert performed by the USO Show Troupe at Wawa Hoagie Day NBC’s The Voice contestants Matthew Schuler and Audra Mclaughlin A hoagie building contest between Philadelphia police and fire personnel An appearance from Food Network’s Robert Irvine

At night the Philly @ The Movies series concludes with “The Sixth Sense,” directed and written by Philadelphia native M. Night Shyamalan, and also filmed throughout Philadelphia.

KEY VISUALS Attendees watching “The Sixth Sense”

WHERE: WHEN:Go 4th & Learn About History: Go 4th & Learn About History:National Constitution Center Thursday, July 2525 Arch Street 10 a.m. – Noon

Wawa Hoagie Day Wawa Hoagie DayIndependence Visitor Center Lawn Thursday, July 2Market Street, Between 5th & 6th Streets Noon – 1:30 p.m.

Philly @ the Movies presents Philly @ the Movies presents “The Sixth Sense” Thursday, July 2Rittenhouse Park 9 p.m. 210 W. Rittenhouse Square

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:Go 4th & Learn About History + Wawa Hoagie DayTV Parking: The east side of 6th street, between Market and Arch sts. TV must arrive between 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to assure spots.

Philly @ The Movies presents “The Sixth Sense”TV Parking: 1800 block of Walnut St., south side.

Wawa Welcome America! is a multi-day festival that celebrates America’s birthday in America’s birthplace, Philadelphia. Wawa joined the festival as the title sponsor in 2010. For more information,

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please visit www.welcomeamerica.com, like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/wawawelcomeamerica) and follow us on Twitter and Instagram (@July4thPhilly).

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FRIDAY, JULY 3, 20151 p.m. – 10 p.m.




[email protected]

NEWS ADVISORYLiberty Block Party is Back and Better Than Ever in Afternoon; “POPS! On

Independence” Celebrates America Where it All Began at Night

WHAT: Liberty Block Party offers Philadelphia residents and visitors an opportunity to explore some of the city’s finest live entertainment and diverse food scene. With more than 20 food trucks and restaurants to choose from, the Liberty Block Party will have something for everyone including several performances from some of the city’s local talents on three music stages– People’s Plaza is the main stage. Liberty Block Party will also feature Wawa Welcome America’s first-ever beer garden.

KEY VISUALS: More than 20 of Philadelphia’s top restaurants and food trucks offering a diverse selection of

cuisines

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Musical entertainment performances from local and regional groups. Liberty Block Party Beer Garden

The Philly Pops! return to celebrate America’s birthday with “POPS! On Independence”, presented by PHL Airport and the PA Lottery, a free concert in front of Independence Hall. Conductor Michael Krajewski and soloists Capathia Jenkins and Darius De Haas will perform in this year’s show.

KEY VISUALS: Conductor Michael Krajewski and soloists Capathia Jenkins and Darius De Haas Hundreds of concert-goers on lawn chairs

WHERE: WHEN:The Liberty Block Party The Liberty Block Party5th and 6th Streets between Friday, July 3Market and Chestnut streets 1 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.1625 Chestnut St.

Pops! On Independence Pops! On Independence Steps of Independence Hall, Friday, July 36th and Chestnut streets 8 p.m. – 10 p.mIndependence Hall

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:Pops! On IndependenceTV Parking: Independence Visitor Center, 6th and Market streets, northeast corner on curb lane on east side.

The Liberty Block Party TV Parking: 6th and Market streets, northeast corner on east side, next to the Independence Visitor Center.

**Parking and other logistics subject to change on site**

MORE: Wawa Welcome America! is a multi-day festival that celebrates America’s birthday in America’s birthplace, Philadelphia. Wawa joined the festival as the title sponsor in 2010. For more information, please visit www.welcomeamerica.com, like us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/wawawelcomeamerica) and follow us on Twitter and Instagram (@July4thPhilly).

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SATURDAY, JULY 4, 201510 a.m. – 2 p.m.


[email protected]


[email protected]

NEWS ADVISORY

Fourth of July Begins with a Ceremonial Commemoration of Historic Milestones and Parade in Historic Philadelphia

WHAT: Scheduled: Mayor Nutter and other VIP guests will pay tribute to America at the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony featuring music, inspiring remarks, and a reading of excerpts from the Declaration ofIndependence. This year’s ceremony commemorates the 50 th anniversary of the first major LGBTQ protest in the United States, the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the 50th anniversary of the Immigration & Nationality Act of 1965, and the 150th anniversary of the addition of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. A naturalization ceremony for new American citizens is also part of the festivities.

As the day of patriotism and pride continues, residents and visitors will line the streets in America’s most historic square mile to witness one of the nation’s most diverse Independence Day Parade firsthand. This year’s parade will feature more than 6,000 participants from states across the country ---- including Miss America.

WHEN: Saturday, July 4, 2015

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Celebration of Freedom Ceremony, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.Independence Day Parade, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

WHERE:Independence Hall, 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106

MEDIA ENTRANCE: 6th & Chestnut Street, Northeast Corner

KEY VISUALS: Mayor Michael A. Nutter and local dignitaries lead the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony in front of

large crowds at Independence Hall. Hegeman String Band 514 Air Mobility Wing Honor Guard; Delaware Bay Sector Coast Guard 20 Pennsylvania State Flags; Betsy Ross Flag U.S. Olympic Medalist Carl Lewis Miss Pennsylvania San Simon USA Bolivian Dancers Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln re-enactors American Women’s Heritage Society Philadelphia Police Highway Patrol Unit Wawa Dairy Truck

Parade Route: The parade begins at 5th and Chestnut Streets, then travels West on Chestnut Street to 9 th Street. It then turns right onto 9th Street, before heading down Market Street toward Front Street. The parade finishes by marching down Front Street to Chestnut Street. Total route is 1.2 miles long.

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS:TV Parking : Beginning at 7 a.m., on 6th St., between Market and Chestnut streets in curb lane on east side. TV vehicles can line up behind procession of production vehicles of event TV sponsor, WPVI 6.

Media Area: North side of the 500 block of Chestnut street (118-foot throw to main stage). Further media instructions will be provided onsite.


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SATURDAY, JULY 4, 2015Noon – 11 p.m.


[email protected]



Philadelphia Rolls Out the Red, Whiteand Blue Carpet on the ParkwayParty on the Parkway and Spectacular Fireworks

Light Up the Sky Over the Philadelphia Museum of Art

WHAT: The Party on the Parkway kicks off at noon on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway from 21st Street and features blocks of exciting activities, games, entertainment and food for the whole family. Party on the Parkway offers a wealth of musical programming throughout the day on the Global Music Stage, at 20 th and Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Questlove Stage, at Eakins Oval near 23 rd street. Featured activities include Pogopalooza, the world championship of extreme pogo, and the U.S. Olympic Committee’s Road to Rio Tour – highlighting meet and greets with Olympic Champions including Carl Lewis and Jordan Burroughs of South Jersey.

Wawa Welcome America! continues its free family fun with “The Largest Free Concert in America,” as thousands come together to jam to the hits of The Roots, Miguel, Jennifer Nettles, MKTO, Zella Day and Twin Ghost. An amazing fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art will follow the Philly 4 th of July Jam, ending the night with a “bang” and illuminating the sky with American patriotism.

KEY VISUALS: People of all ages enjoying the food and entertainment on the Parkway Artists performing on the Global Music and Questlove Stages

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Mayor Michael Nutter welcoming thousands of Philadelphians and visitors from all over the country who have come together for “The Largest Free Concert in America”

The Roots, Miguel, Jennifer Nettles, MKTO, Zella Day and Twin Ghost performing past hits and new songs

Brilliant fireworks display lighting up the night sky over the Philadelphia Museum of Art

WHERE: WHEN:

Party on the Parkway Party on the ParkwayBenjamin Franklin Parkway Saturday, July 420th Street to Eakins Oval Noon – 7 p.m.

Philly 4th of July Jam & Fireworks Philly 4th of July Jam & FireworksBenjamin Franklin Parkway Saturday, July 4Eakins Oval/Philadelphia Museum of Art 7 p.m. – 11 p.m

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS: SECURITY ENTRY CHECKPOINT FOR TV VEHICLES FOR PARKWAY ACTIVITIES (BOTH THE PARTY ON THE PARKWAY AND THE EVENING CONCERT/FIREWORKS):

TV vehicles and news radio headed to the Parkway initially must enter at security checkpoint at 25thStreet and Kelly Drive. Vehicles will be screened promptly, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:15 p.m . Vehicles will not be granted access after 1:15 pm.

All vehicles are subject to security screening, and drivers must present photo identification. TV parking spaces are on the north side in south curb lane of Eakins Oval, between Spring Garden

and 23rd streets (closer to Spring Garden). Once vehicles park in designated lane (on north side of Eakins Oval), they must remain at Eakins

Oval. No movement of TV vehicles will be allowed on the Parkway. No vehicles may leave during shift changes. New staff members can be dropped off at the security

checkpoint at 25th Street and Kelly Drive, but no new vehicles will be admitted after 1:15 p.m. All general (non-TV media) advised to walk, park in public lots or legally on the street Please proceed with caution in the Parkway vicinity

Concert and Fireworks, July 4th Evening: “Philly 4th of July Jam,” 7:30 p.m. to Midnight / Outdoor event

TV Parking: (Same as Party on Parkway): Only available for authorized marked TV vehicles, at north side in south curb lane of Eakins Oval, between Spring Garden and 23rd streets (closer to Spring Garden). TV vehicles should begin parking at 12:30 p.m. (at the Eakins Oval location), but first must enter at designated Security Checkpoint at 25th Street and Kelly Drive.

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Concert Media Check-in: Officially opens at 3 p.m. next to north side in the south curb lane at Eakins Oval, between Spring Garden and 23rd streets, on the Ben Franklin Parkway (on grass area), for the start of the concert and pre-concert activity.

Concert Access: A pre-approved official 2015 Wawa Welcome America! media credential for visual press (TV camera persons and still photographers) is required. Credentials will be issued onsite at media check-in on July 4th to gain entry into concert area. Visual press will be escorted to designated area and have access to photograph parts of the concert.

Media Platform Location: Elevated media platform angled parallel to main stage (80-feet throw) for approved visual press in concert area. Still photographers please bring long lens. Further direction will be provided onsite.


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Fact Sheet· 2015 marks the 22nd Anniversary for Welcome America!, Inc. as the producers of Philadelphia’s

Fourth of July festival.

· Wawa signed on as the title sponsor of the Welcome America! festival in 2010.

· The festival has more than 20 events in 8 days.

· This year’s Celebration of Freedom commemorates the 50th anniversary of the first major

LGBTQ protest in the United States, the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the 50th

anniversary of the Immigration & Nationality Act of 1965, and the 150th anniversary of the addition

of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. A naturalization ceremony for new American

citizens will also be included in the program.

· The Independence Day Parade, winds through the nation’s most historic square mile, with more

than 6,000 participants from across the country.

· Party on the Parkway begins at Noon on July 4 and has the Ben Franklin Parkway lined with

games, the U.S. Olympic Committee’s Road to Rio Tour – featuring meet and greets with

Olympic Champions including Carl Lewis and Jordan Burroughs (both from South Jersey) – will be

among the many activities on the Parkway, and vendors.

· The Philly 4th of July Jam, which takes place on the Ben Franklin Parkway, is the “Largest Free

Concert in America,” with performances from The Roots, Miguel, Jennifer Nettles, MKTO, and Zella Day.

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· The 4th of July Grand Finale Fireworks display is designed by Fireworks by Grucci and sponsored

by Discovery’s Shark Week.


[email protected]


[email protected] RELEASE

Wawa Welcome America! Announces Festival Details Including Star-Studded Lineup for 2015

July 4th concert will star The Roots, with guest performances from Miguel and Jennifer Nettles.

PHILADELPHIA (May 26, 2015) – Today, Mayor Michael A. Nutter announced that the Wawa Welcome America! Festival’s Philly 4th of July Jam will feature a number of top musical artists, including: The Roots, Miguel and Jennifer Nettles. The mayor and other festival representatives gathered at the African American Museum in Philadelphia to share the highly-anticipated concert lineup, along with other event details.

“The City of Philadelphia is proud to welcome such a diverse and talented group of musicians to our city this Fourth of July,” said Mayor Nutter. “With this stellar lineup, ranging from hip-hop and R&B to country, the 2015 Philly 4th of July Jam is sure to be one of the best yet. The events we have planned for the entire Wawa Welcome America! Festival, including the impressive concert on the Fourth, will prove to the world what we have always known – that Philadelphia is the foremost place to celebrate our nation’s birthday.”

Philadelphia’s own The Roots return to the Philly 4th of July Jam stage, this time as the stars of the show. Formed in 1987, in Philadelphia, PA, the legendary Roots Crew have become one of the best known and most respected hip-hop acts in the business. Recently, The Roots were named one of the greatest live bands around by Rolling Stone. The group currently serves as the official house band on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where they perform every Monday through Friday. This year’s guest artists will join The Roots on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway for a series of nonstop, electrifying performances.

Singer, songwriter, and producer Miguel spent a handful of years behind the scenes before he released his first hit single and became one of pop-R&B's most significant artists. His first single "All I Want Is You," was a Top Ten hit on Billboard's Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart when it was released in 2010, and the album of the same title reached the Top Ten of the R&B Albums chart. Miguel released his second album, Kaleidoscope Dream, in October 2012 and its lead single, "Adorn," became a Number One R&B single. Kaleidoscope Dream was nominated for a Grammy Award in the category of Best Urban Contemporary Album, while "Adorn" was nominated for three awards, including one it won, for Best R&B Song. The following year, the album's "How Many Drinks?" was nominated as well.

Jennifer Nettles is widely-known as the lead singer of the multi-platinum selling and Grammy Award-winning country duo Sugarland. For more than a decade, the band enjoyed commercial success with the albums Twice the Speed of Life, Enjoy the Ride, Love on the Inside and The Incredible Machine. As a

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member of Sugarland, Jennifer received a number of honors, including five ACM Awards, six CMA Awards and two Grammy Awards. In 2014, Jennifer released her first solo album, That Girl, which featured the work of legendary producer Rick Rubin.

“For Wawa Welcome America! 2015, our biggest goal is to provide our guests with the best possible experience throughout all eight days of the festival,” said Desiree Peterkin-Bell, City Representative and Executive Director of Welcome America, Inc. “We have some terrific events leading up to the Fourth of July, and the performers secured for the Philly 4th of July Jam will serve as the perfect ending to our celebrations.”

The 2015 festival calendar provides eight days of enticing events for Philadelphia residents and visitors alike to create lifelong memories at Wawa Welcome America! from June 27 to July 4. This year’s schedule brings festival attendees free, family-friendly events in the days leading up to the Fourth of July, and will prove why Philadelphia is the best place to celebrate America’s birthday. A detailed event schedule follows below. All events are free, unless otherwise noted.

SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2015WHAT: Family DayWHERE: The Shops at Liberty Place, 1625 Chestnut StreetWHEN: Noon – 4:00 p.m. Family Day at the Shops at Liberty Place gives families the opportunity to enjoy activities celebrating the 150th anniversary of the first reading of “Alice In Wonderland,” and they can let their creativity shine with tons of arts and crafts and more.

SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2015WHAT: Wawa Welcome America! Community DayWHERE: Port Richmond, Samuel Recreation Center, 3539 Gaul Street,WHEN: Noon – 4:00 p.m. A new addition to the schedule is the Wawa Welcome America! Community Day, which will be held in Philadelphia’s Port Richmond neighborhood. Residents and visitors are invited to join us for an afternoon of activities and music in one of Philadelphia’s many great neighborhoods.

MONDAY, JUNE 29, 2015WHAT: FREE Admission to the Franklin InstituteCourtesy of WawaWHERE: Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th StWHEN: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Gather your friends and enjoy a free day at the Franklin Institute, courtesy of Wawa. You will have the chance to visit the interactive Wawa Dairy exhibit to discover the science behind dairy farming and production and to learn about the evolution of Wawa Dairy Farms and Philadelphia's favorite convenience store. General admission includes access to three floors of interactive exhibits, explosive science shows and hands-on demonstrations and a show in the Fels Planetarium. WHAT: Go 4th & Learn About ScienceWHERE: Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St

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WHEN: 10:00 a.m. – Noon All Go 4th & Learn events include special readings, free book giveaways and educational fun! The first 800 kids will receive a free book courtesy of Duffy Books in Homes USA. WHAT: Philly @ The Movies: “Big Hero 6”WHERE: Franklin Square, 200 N. 6th StreetWHEN: 8:30 p.m. For the kick-off of the 2015 Philly @ The Movies series, attendees can view one of this year’s must-see films for children and adults alike, Disney’s “Big Hero 6”. TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2015WHAT: FREE Admission to the Philadelphia History MuseumIn Partnership with PECOWHERE: Philadelphia History Museum, 15 S. 7th StreetWHEN: 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Learn about the rich history of the City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection at the Philadelphia History Museum. The museum will be open for free to the public all day as part of the Wawa Welcome America! Festival. WHAT: Go 4th & Learn About PhiladelphiaWHERE: Philadelphia History Museum, 15 S. 7th StreetWHEN: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. All Go 4th & Learn events include special readings, free book giveaways and educational fun! The first 800 kids will receive a free book courtesy of Duffy Books in Homes USA. WHAT: Philly @ The Movies: “Annie”WHERE: Dilworth Park, 1 S. 15th StreetWHEN: 8:30 p.m. The Philly @ The Movies series continues with a free screening of the newly adapted version of “Annie,” a tale of a precocious orphan girl with a big personality and heart of gold. WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2015WHAT: FREE Admission to the African American Museum in PhiladelphiaIn partnership with PECOWHERE: African American Museum in Philadelphia, 701 Arch StreetWHEN: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Visit the African American Museum in Philadelphia to experience the richness and vibrancy of African American heritage and culture in four exhibition galleries filled with exciting history and fascinating art. The museum will be open for free to the public all day as part of the Wawa Welcome America! Festival. WHAT: Go 4th & Learn About FitnessWHERE: Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, 3500 Reservoir DriveWHEN: 10:00 a.m. – Noon

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The Go 4th & Learn series continues with a morning of fitness and fun at the Smith Memorial Playground and Playhouse, a 6.5 acre playground that includes the Ann Newman Giant Wooden Slide and more than 50 unique, child-friendly, and accessible pieces of play equipment. All Go 4th & Learn events include special readings, free book giveaways and educational fun! The first 800 kids will receive a free book courtesy of Duffy Books in Homes USA. WHAT: Philly @ The Movies: “Rocky”WHERE: Philadelphia Museum of Art, 26th Street and Benjamin Franklin ParkwayWHEN: 9:00 p.m. Philly @ The Movies continues with a free screening of “Rocky,” the iconic boxing film shot in and around Philadelphia. Movie-goers will watch this classic from the very steps that made Rocky a lifelong legend. THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015WHAT: FREE Admission to the National Constitution CenterWHERE: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch StreetWHEN: 9:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Wawa invites you to enjoy a free day at the National Constitution Center, including access to new exhibitions that open this summer. A special Wawa display will feature Wawa's commitment to military, fire and police. WHAT: Go 4th & Learn About HistoryWHERE: National Constitution Center, 525 Arch StreetWHEN: 10:00 a.m. – Noon All Go 4th & Learn events include special readings, free book giveaways and educational fun! The first 800 kids will receive a free book courtesy of Duffy Books in Homes USA.

WHAT: PHL Photo Exhibit “About Philadelphia: A City of Firsts”WHERE: Philadelphia International Airport, Terminal A-East, 8000 Essington AvenueWHEN: 10:00 a.m. “About Philadelphia” is a photo exhibition that celebrates the City's historic American firsts. Travelers going through the Airport can visit the exhibit to learn more. This exhibit is open to ticketed passengers only. WHAT: Wawa Hoagie DayWHERE: Independence Mall, Market Street Between 5th and 6th StreetsWHEN: Noon – 1:30 p.m. The 23rd annual Wawa Hoagie Day, which focuses on honoring our troops and expanding Wawa’s partnership with the USO, will begin with a salute to local and national heroes - our military, firemen and police officers. Wawa hoagies will be distributed FREE to the crowd. The event will include a special appearance by Food Network Chef Robert Irvine and performances by NBC’s “The Voice” contestants Matthew Schuler and Audra McLaughlin, as well as the USO Show Troupe. WHAT: Philadelphia Orchestra Neighborhood ConcertWHERE: Great Plaza @ Penn’s Landing, 101 S. Columbus Blvd.

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WHEN: 8:00 p.m. The world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra presents a FREE Neighborhood Concert on the RiverStage at the Great Plaza. WHAT: Philly @ The Movies: “The Sixth Sense”WHERE: Rittenhouse Park, 210 W. Rittenhouse SquareWHEN: 9:00 p.m. The Philly @ The Movies series concludes with “The Sixth Sense,” directed and written by Philadelphia native M. Night Shyamalan and also filmed throughout Philadelphia. In this spooky tale, a young boy communicates with spirits that only he can see. FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2015WHAT: Liberty Block Party WHERE: 5th and 6th Streets Between Market and Chestnut StreetsWHEN: 1:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The largest block party of the summer, the Liberty Block Party, offers Philadelphia residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the city’s diverse food scene and some of its finest live entertainment. Entry and entertainment are free; however, food and drinks must be purchased.

WHAT: POPS! On IndependenceWHERE: Steps of Independence Hall, 6th and Chestnut StreetsWHEN: 8:00 p.m. The Philly Pops! return to celebrate America’s birthday with POPS! On Independence, a free concert at Independence Hall. Conductor Michael Krajewski and soloists Capathia Jenkins and Darius de Haas will take part in this year’s show. Seating is first come, first served, and concertgoers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy one of Philadelphia’s most popular Fourth of July traditions. SATURDAY, JULY 4, 2015WHAT: Celebration of Freedom CeremonyWHERE: Steps of Independence Hall, 6th and Chestnut StreetsWHEN: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Philadelphians and visitors can pay tribute to our nation at the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony featuring music, inspiring remarks, and a reading of excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, among other special elements. This year’s ceremony commemorates the 50 th anniversary of the first major LGBTQ protest in the United States, the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the 50 th anniversary of the Immigration & Nationality Act of 1965, and the 150 th anniversary of the addition of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. A naturalization ceremony for new American citizens will also be included in the program. WHAT: Independence Day ParadeWHERE: Throughout Historic PhiladelphiaWHEN: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Starting in front of Independence Hall, more than 6,000 participants from across the nation – including

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Miss America 2015, marching bands, floats, military organizations and several special performance teams – will be taking part in the annual Independence Day Parade through Historic Philadelphia. Spectators of all ages will enjoy the patriotic pageantry of the most diverse Independence Day Parade in the country as it winds through the nation’s most historic square mile. Parade Route: The parade begins at 5th and Chestnut Streets, then travels West on Chestnut Street to 9 th Street. It then turns right onto 9th Street, before heading down Market Street toward Front Street. The parade finishes by marching down Front Street to Chestnut Street. Total route is 1.2 miles long. WHAT: Let Freedom Ring CeremonyWHERE: Independence National Historical Park, 6th and Market StreetsWHEN: 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. The Sons of the American Revolution program starts on Independence Square & concludes with symbolic tapping of Liberty Bell by Descendants of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence in Liberty Bell Pavilion.

WHAT: Party on the ParkwayWHERE: Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 20th Street to Eakins OvalWHEN: Noon – 7:00 p.m. The highly anticipated, day-long Party on the Parkway features blocks of exciting activities, games, entertainment and food fit for the whole family. Pogopalooza, the world championship of extreme pogo, and the U.S. Olympic Committee’s Road to Rio Tour will be among the many activities on the Parkway. Party on the Parkway offers a wealth of musical programming throughout the day on the Global Music and Questlove Stages. WHAT: Philly 4th of July Jam and Grand Finale FireworksWHERE: Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Benjamin Franklin Parkway at Eakins OvalWHEN: 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. The Wawa Welcome America! Philly 4th of July Jam takes place each year on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and is followed by a fireworks display over the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Past performers include: Nicki Minaj, Ed Sheeran, John Mayer, J.Cole, Grace Potter, Jill Scott, Common, Joe Jonas, Queen Latifah, Lauryn Hill and more. 6ABC returns as the festival’s local media partner, broadcasting the concert live in the Philadelphia region. The 2015 Philly 4th of July Jam stars The Roots, with special guests Miguel and Jennifer Nettles. The show will be immediately followed by a fireworks spectacular, brought to you by Discovery’s Shark Week. Additional details about Wawa Welcome America!’s musical performances will be made available online. Other organizations and attractions will host free events throughout the city during the festival week and even extending past the Fourth of July. Visitors will be able to check the Wawa Welcome America! website for a list of these partner events. Wawa Welcome America! is a multi-day festival that celebrates America’s birthday in America’s birthplace, Philadelphia. Wawa joined the festival as the title sponsor in 2010. For more information, please visit www.welcomeamerica.com, like us on Facebook (Facebook.com/WawaWelcomeAmerica) and follow us on Twitter and Instagram (@July4thPhilly).

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[email protected] RELEASE

HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS COMMEMORATE AMERICA’S BIRTHDAY IN ITS BIRTHPLACE ON FRIDAY, JULY 4TH

(PHILADELPHIA) July 4, 2015 - Philadelphia is the place to be this Fourth of July. The City of Brotherly Love and Wawa Welcome America! are pulling out all the stops to make this Fourth of July one to remember.

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The festivities begin in front of Independence Hall with the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony beginning at 10 a.m. The ceremony features a reading of excerpts from the Declaration of Independence by Olympic gold medalist Carl Lewis, remarks by Mayor Michael A. Nutter, and performers including four-time Grammy Award-winning gospel icon Karen Clark Sheard and local group Brotherly Love will entertain the crowd. The first 50th Anniversary of the LGBTQ Protest in the United States, the 50th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the 50th Anniversary of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, and the 150th anniversary of the 13th Amendment will be recognized throughout the program. A naturalization ceremony for new American citizens will also take place.

“This year, our Fourth of July celebration will be one of Philadelphia’s best – we will commemorate several landmark anniversaries, experience Philadelphia’s incredible diversity through the Independence Day Parade and Party on the Parkway, and watch some of the most talented, dynamic performers in music light up the stage at the Philly 4th of July Jam,” said Mayor Nutter. “I want to encourage every Philadelphian and visitor to celebrate this Independence Day in the place where our great nation was born. Enjoy yourselves, be safe and remember – ‘Philly Owns the 4th!’”

The City continues to recognize America’s birthday with the Philadelphia Independence Day Parade that travels throughout Historic Philadelphia. Residents and visitors have the opportunity to witness more than 6,000 diverse participants as they march through the nation’s most historic square mile, starting at 11 a.m. This year’s parade includes Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev, Olympic legend Carl Lewis, musical groups, floats, and representatives from various military branches. The parade will step off at 5 th and Chestnut Streets, then travel West on Chestnut Street to 9 th Street. It will then turn right onto 9th Street, before heading down Market Street toward Front Street. The parade finishes by marching down Front Street to Chestnut Street. Total route is 1.2 miles long.

Following the parade, the Let Freedom Ring Ceremony will take place at Independence National Park. During this ceremony, visitors are given the rare opportunity to witness the tapping of the Liberty Bell by descendents of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. The ceremony starts at approximately 1 p.m.

Wawa Welcome America! shows Philadelphians and visitors alike that our City knows how to throw a party with Party on the Parkway! America’s birthday continues as the Ben Franklin Parkway over-flows with exciting activities, games, and delicious food from Noon to 7:00 p.m. There will be a number of activities for attendees to enjoy, including: the “Go 4th and Learn” Pavilion, Pogopalooza: The Xpogo World Series Competition, giveaways from Wawa, the United States Olympic Committees Road to Rio Tour, Almay makeovers and more. Throughout the day, a diverse group of performers, including Firestorm, The Greater Philadelphia Minghu Dance Team, Dance Illusions Bollywood Dancers, Casa Brazilia Samba Dancers, and DJ Andre The Giant will entertain the audience from the Global Music Stage. Attendees can also take in a performance by up-and-coming artists such as Cody Kahmar, Max Swan, DJ Swizzy Mack, Kate Faust, Julian King and Gogo Morrow at the Questlove Stage.

Party on the Parkway leads attendees right up to the biggest event of the day - the Philly 4th of July Jam and Fireworks grand finale. The Roots will headline the “Largest Free Concert in America,” with electrifying performances by Miguel, Jennifer Nettles, MKTO, Zella Day and Twin Ghost. The Philly 4th of July Jam will be followed by the Wawa Welcome America! Grand Finale Fireworks, created by Fireworks By Grucci, and presented by Discovery’s “Shark Week”.

“This year, Wawa Welcome America! is determined to provide our guests with the best possible experience during our Fourth of July activities,” said Desiree Peterkin-Bell, City Representative and Executive Director of Welcome America, Inc. “From the Celebration of Freedom Ceremony in the morning to our Grand Finale

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Fireworks, the Fourth of July in Philly will be unforgettable. There truly is no better place to celebrate Independence Day.”


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Wawa Welcome America Press Samples

Government & Nonprofit

Transcript of Wawa Welcome America Press Samples