Who Was There: Philadelphia July 4th Press Conference

On Tuesday May 14, Wawa Welcome America president and CEO Michael DelBene shared the news of all the fun, free events which will be happening during the annual July 4th celebrations in Philadelphia at the perfect spot, City Hall courtyard. The center of everything in Philly.

The who’s who of Philadelphia hospitality industry were on hand to hear the news, many of who were hosting events during the 16 day event. This year there were more collaborations happening than in any other year I recall, including several sponsors supporting the efforts. Bravo!! Thank you!!

Geoff Gordon, Live Nation Philadelphia’s regional president, Joseph Cacchione, MD CEO of Jefferson Health and Thomas Jefferson University and Jazelle Jones, City Representative and Director of Special Events, (for more than a decade working behind the scenes, Jazelle has been the head of Director of Special Events, working hand in hand with the City Representative office on events; now heading both departments.)

Another behind the scenes person, who does so much for City events, Brenda Goldsmith. She works on the production side of many of the large public events, as well as the 6ABC Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Tournament of the Roses Parade, and the Washington DC holiday events along with event producer Todd Marcocci, who was also on hand, but I didn’t get a photo.

Brittany Lynn aka Ian Morrison Queen of the Drag Mafia, with PR extraordinaire Brandon Szeker

First Person Arts (FPA) announces their First Person Arts Festival line-up with headliners: Marc Lamont Hill, Betty J. Smithsonian, Roxanne Gay, and Chris Gethard. The festival will take place from June 29th-July 2nd in various parts of the city, and is proud to be partnered with Wawa Welcome America!

Michael Norris, Executive Director of Carpenter’s Hall. The year 2024 rings in the 300th year of The Carpenters’ Company of The City and County of Philadelphia. It likewise signals the 250th anniversary of Carpenters’ Hall and The First Continental Congress. We are excited to announce a year of exciting programming to celebrate this one of a kind occasion- the hallmark event being the Young People’s Continental Congress.

Sorry Keystone Ken, I think you’re swell. Super clever too, everyone knows you’re the Pennsylvania Keystone, and I get it, you’re Red, White and Blue too!!

The legendary Patty Jackson was on hand as the Dell Music Center will be partnering with Welcome America this year for festivities, many of which she hosts as MC. AND Don’t forget Patty’s Party in the Park at the end of the summer. Here’s the Dell Music Center’s Schedule

Radio personality, life coach, legend Dyana Williams, and legend in my mind Laura Burkhardt, executive director of Avenue of the Arts, who celebrates Welcome America with a block party on Saturday, June 29, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on South Broad Street between Walnut and Pine streets.

The night before “Join us as we celebrate Black Music Month, which was founded in Philadelphia.  Hosted and curated by Philadelphia music legend Dyana Williams, this brand new celebration will feature multiple different expressions of black music, performed by some of Philadelphia’s most well-known and sought-after black musicians. Guests will be treated to incredible music, food, and cocktails under the stars at the iconic Dell Music Center.  This event is presented in partnership with The Recording Academy Philadelphia Chapter.

The event takes place on Friday, June 28, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Dell Music Center on 2400 Strawberry Mansion Drive.”

Mayor Cherelle Parker reciting the One City United Pledge. She’s strong on messaging, and has made many hard decisions already in her less than 200 days in office. On stage is Chris Gheysens serves as the CEO / President of Wawa, Geoff Gordon, Live Nation, Jazelle Jones, City Representative, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, Managing Director Adam Thiel, Michael DelBene, President & CEO, Welcome America, Inc and Elizabeth Flores, Vice President of News for NBC10 and Telemundo62.

Executive Director of First Person Arts, Jamie J Brunson and about the best friend anyone could want, Michael Newmuis, Philadelphia’s new 2026 Director, who lights up the room when ever he walks in the door. His new job keeps him busy, so these days we send a lot of emojis & memes to each other, just to let each other know we’re alive and kicking, with the occasional 7/11 snack run thrown in. I think you’re going to love his plan to celebrate the nations 250th Anniversary.

For more info on the entertainment, as well as the robust schedule for Wawa Welcome America, head to NBC10 Philadelphia All Things July 4th Press Conference Page