The Girls might Love Cool James, however LL Cool J loves union staff slightly extra. The night time earlier than July 4’s Wawa Welcome America Live performance in Philadelphia, LL Cool J backed out because the headliner of the occasion in help of hanging metropolis staff. Jazmine Sullivan, one of many openers and a Philly native, adopted go well with and mentioned she would additionally not carry out. That, nevertheless, didn’t appear to dampen the perspective of those that attended the occasions.
The day began with the Celebration Of Freedom Ceremony at Independence Corridor. Two awards got out, The Mayor’s One Philly Award and the tenth anniversary of the Wawa Basis Hero Award. The occasion featured award-winning R&B/pop vocalist Suzann Christine and speeches by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and the recipient of the inaugural One Philly Award: Philadelphia Phillies managing associate/principal proprietor John Middleton.
Through the mayor’s speech, there have been verbal interruptions from members and supporters of AFSCME District Council 33, town’s largest labor union. All in all, the demonstration was respectful and the mayor acknowledged that we must always acknowledge the union members’ proper to voice their opinions, particularly on Independence Day.
Honored for his philanthropy work, Middleton spoke about his dedication to the Philadelphia area. He additionally expressed his want to see one other World Collection trophy again to Philadelphia.
Though the night occasion modified as a consequence of LL Cool J and Jazmine Sullivan bowing out, these attending nonetheless acquired into the groove with rapper/singer Álvaro Díaz and singer/songwriter JoJo together with Mr Hollywood DJ and DJ Ghost & Associates.
There was a wholesome crowd that confirmed up on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway for the free live performance. Díaz and JoJo carried out upbeat units between the DJs holding attendees entertained till the nighttime fireworks.
On the finish of the day, though there was a noticeable influence from the union strike, it didn’t cease the Metropolis Of Brotherly Love from celebrating the start of our nation.
—phrases and photographs by Eric Ring
