What To See, What To Do In Philadelphia During World Meeting Of Families & Pope Francis’ Visit

What To See, What To Do In Philadelphia During World Meeting Of Families & Pope Francis’ Visit

Between Philly’s Permanent Offerings & Special Happenings, Visitors Will Have Plenty To Discover During World Meeting Of Families Weekrn

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rnBenjamin Franklin ParkwayrnWhen families of faith from around the globe make their pilgrimage to Philadelphia from September 22-27 for the eighth World Meeting of Families (WMOF), they will find the City of Brotherly Love ready to welcome them with special exhibitions, activities and tours. The event culminates on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with the Festival of Families on September 26, followed by the papal mass the next day. Throughout the week, visitors will find plenty to discover and explore throughout the region.rnrnHere’s a look at some must-sees, must-dos for families and the faithful, along with a sampling of special events, exhibitions and tours scheduled to take place during this special time in Philadelphia’s history:rnrnPhilly 101:rnrnIndependence National Historical Park—home of Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center, Congress Hall and other historical landmarks—top any first-timer’s to-do list. The Benjamin Franklin Parkway, site of the papal mass, is a museum-lover’s paradise with The Franklin Institute, Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia Museum of Art and famous Rocky statue. And global visitors can get a taste of Philly and likely a taste of their own hometown treats at the always-buzzing Reading Terminal Market. visitphilly.comrnSpecial Events & Exhibits:rnrnPenn Museum’s Sacred Writings: Extraordinary Texts of the Biblical World, features two treasures: one of the world’s oldest papyrus fragments of the Gospel of Saint Matthew (Chapter 1: 1-9 and 12-20), 3rd century C.E., and a Sumerian clay tablet, 17th century B.C.E., with the earliest version of the Mesopotamian flood story, which closely parallels the biblical tale of Noah. Visitors interested in the biblical era and region can explore galleries with materials from the Ancient Near East, Egypt and the Bible Lands, as well as Sacred Spaces, an exhibition of spectacular photographs of Byzantine church interiors in Turkey. August 15-September 27. 3260 South Street, (215) 898-4000, penn.museumrnSince it was founded in 1812, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, clergy naturalists have contributed to its collections. The Clergy and the Academy’s Collections exhibit includes plant and animal specimens, objects, books and archival materials contributed by clergy from the Catholic, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Quaker, Jewish and Moravian communities. August 31-October 13. 1900 Ben Franklin Parkway, rn(215) 299-1000, ansp.orgrnWhen Father Edwin Gallagher, the Catholic chaplain at the historic Eastern State Penitentiary, witnessed an inmate painting in his cell, he invited him to decorate the offices where he counseled inmates. Now on view, these remarkable and fragile paintings in the Chaplain’s Office have been carefully restored and are a testament to the story of one inmate who underwent a powerful change thanks to his Catholic faith. September 20-24. 2027 Fairmount Avenue, (215) 236-3300, easternstate.orgrnThe Philadelphia Museum of Art offers several themed tours of its vast collection. Visitors join daily, guided tours of the collection of Christian art highlighted by van der Weyden’s Crucifixion, van Eyck’s Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata and Tanner’s The Annunciation. Other activities include self-guided walking tours of the Medieval and Renaissance galleries, featuring masterpieces of Christian art with an emphasis on Pope Francis’ namesake, Saint Francis of Assisi. September 22-27. 2600 Ben Franklin Parkway, (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.orgrnReligious Liberty, a special fall exhibition at the National Constitution Center (NCC), explores the roots of religious liberty in America. Historic documents illuminate the interplay between church and state and how the First Amendment was established. The NCC also hosts a week of crafts, quiz games, 18th-century dress-up stations, special museum tours during World Meeting of Families week, and all at special savings. 525 Arch Street, (215) 409-6700, constitutioncenter.orgrnSacred Sites & Tours:rnrnNumerous religious denominations worship in Philadelphia, thanks in part to city founder William Penn whose commitment to religious freedom was at the heart of his efforts to colonize Pennsylvania. Christ Church, Free Quaker Meeting House, Old St. Mary’s Church, Old Saint Joseph’s Church (the first Catholic church in the city), Mikveh Israel synagogue and Mother Bethel A.M.E. Church are just a few of the houses of worship dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries that still stand and have active congregations.rnVisitors can explore some of the city’s most cherished sacred sites while experiencing its acclaimed walkability with two faith-themed walking tours. As part of its 90-minute Faith, Family and Freedom tour, Philadelphia Trolley Works guides escort guests to attractions along the Ben Franklin Parkway, Old City and other locations. September 13-15, September 28. Love Park Visitor Center, 16th Street & John F. Kennedy Boulevard. And the Compline Lantern Light Tour takes participants to historic churches, synagogues, graveyards and other sites all by the glow of candle light. Various locations. September 13-15, September 28. Independence Visitor Center, 6th & Market Streets, (215) 389-8687, phillytour.comrnDevout followers can find inspiration at some of the region’s religious shrines. A new Catholic Shrine Tour by Philadelphia Trolley Works brings people to four of the most popular ones: National Shrine of Saint John Neumann, National Shrine of Saint Katharine Drexel, National Shrine of Saint Rita of Cascia and Museum of the Miraculous Medal Shrine. August 2, 3, 15; September 17-24. Independence Visitor Center, 6th & Market Streets, (215) 389-8687, phillytour.comrnInternational Appeal:rnrnPope Francis’ Latino heritage is expected to inspire many Latinos to make a pilgrimage to Philadelphia for this historic event, and the city is prepared to greet them in their native tongue. At the Independence Visitor Center, visitors learn about attractions in Independence National Historical Park thanks to brochures in a dozen languages, including Spanish, Russian, Korean, Arabic, German and more. There, they can also book advance reservations for tours in Spanish and other languages with several tour companies such as Philadelphia Urban Adventures, Philly by Segway and Philadelphia Personal Tours. 5th & Market Streets, (800) 537-7676, phlvisitorcenter.comrnVISIT PHILADELPHIA’s self-guided New Americans Tour, downloadable in Spanish French and Mandarin on the Mayor’s Office of Immigrants and Multicultural Affairs’ website (phila.gov/ima), leads visitors to historic sites that tell the story of the United States’ founding. visitphilly.com/newamericansrnInfo On The Go:rnrnWith hundreds of special events, exhibitions and other activities being planned throughout the region, the WMOF is developing a free app to help visitors easily find things to see and do. Expected to be released later this summer, the app includes happenings in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties and will focus on activities taking place from September 18-29 in order to serve families before, during and after the conference and papal visit. worldmeeting2015.orgrnThe city’s official visitor information website visitphilly.com and what’s-happening-now blog uwishunu.com provides up-to-date information about events, exhibition, hotels, itineraries, restaurants and everything else that will help visitors make the most of their visits. The sites are also available in mobile-friendly formats for guests on the go.rnVISIT PHILADELPHIA® makes Philadelphia and The Countryside® a premier destination through marketing and image building that increases the number of visitors, the number of nights they stay and the number of things they do in the five-county area.rnrnOn Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website and blog, visitphilly.com and uwishunu.com, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the sites effective trip-planning tools. Along with Visit Philly social media channels, the online platforms communicate directly with consumers. Travelers can also call and stop into the Independence Visitor Center for additional information and tickets.

Delaware Recording Artist Nellagy Releases New Inspirational Single “Brotherly Love”

Delaware Recording Artist Nellagy Releases New Inspirational Single “Brotherly Love”

Presented by Coast 2 Coast Mixtape Distributionsrn

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Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) May 28, 2015

Coast 2 Coast Mixtapes presents the release of the "Brotherly Love" single by Nellagy. This new single is currently available to stream and download on the Coast 2 Coast Mixtape website.

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Nellagy was born Gregory Allen Spencer II in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Raised in Delaware, he is a 19 year old college student who is serious about being a hip-hop artist. Nellagy pens his rhymes from his ambitious spirit and strong desire to be a success. He likens himself to Kanye West because of his ability to write and deliver his lyrical flow on his own tracks.

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Nellagy's hip-hop influences come from Kanye West, Ace Hood, Lupe Fiasco, Drake, Big Sean and J Cole. He describes himself as a guy who has fun and likes his fans to have fun with his music. He is a positive and uplifting artist who loves the art of making music….It shows in his life and music!

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At the age of 16, he wrote his debut EP “Appearance Ain’t Everything”. He created this project because he wants the world to see hip-hop is not all negative or stereotypical. He wrote "Break The Code" which was selected to be on a mixtape distributed for an education summit sponsored by Jr Music Executive, Google, Temple University, and host of other organizations.

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Stay up to date with Nellagy on Twitter at: @Nellagenius

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About Coast 2 Coast Mixtapes rn
Coast 2 Coast Mixtapes are the most widely distributed mixtapes in the world, with over 100 million downloads/plays generated by over 200 volumes officially hosted by major artists. Coast 2 Coast has a solid reach in the new music industry with a digital magazine, DJ coalition, industry tips blog, yearly convention, and more. Coast 2 Coast Mixtapes represents a unique opportunity for artists of all urban genres, from major to indie. For more information, visit http://www.coast2coastmixtapes.com.

Eastern State Penitentiary Hosts Prison Food Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7

Eastern State Penitentiary Hosts Prison Food Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7

— Visitors sample chi chi and nutraloaf prepared by former inmates and officers –rn

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rnPHILADELPHIA, May 27, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site brings back its popular Prison Food Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, June 6 and 7. On these days visitors can sample five states' versions of nutraloaf, the "food product" issued as punishment in many American prisons, as well as "chi chi," comfort food made by inmates using ingredients from prison commissary.rnrnCourts have generally upheld the rights of prisons to serve nutraloaf, but the practice remains controversial. Freestyle BBQ, a catering company owned by correctional officer John Freeman, will create the nutraloaf samples using official recipes from five U.S. states:rnrnIdaho (Breakfast Version): Most prisons serve the same punishment loaf at every meal. Idaho may be the only state with breakfast, lunch, and dinner recipes. The breakfast nutraloaf uses traditional morning foods, blending cereal, milk, toast, and even orange juice into a single baked loaf.rnCalifornia: Inmates on a "disciplinary diet" in California jails are served this loaf twice a day. The recipe includes raw cabbage and chili powder. Inmates receive two slices of whole wheat bread and a quart of water with each serving.rnIllinois (Vegan Option): This vegan recipe features an unlikely combination of applesauce, tomato paste, and garlic powder. Inmates at the Tamms Correctional Center sued the Illinois Department of Corrections after being served this recipe. They alleged cruel and unusual punishment under the Eighth Amendment. Their suit was unsuccessful.rnVermont: Prisoners sued after being served this loaf, which contains non-dairy cheese and raisins. The Supreme Court ruled that inmates must be given a hearing before being placed on nutraloaf diets. Needing to revise its policies, the Vermont Department of Corrections has suspended the practice indefinitely.rnPennsylvania: This recipe incorporates cooked rice, dry oatmeal, and mashed garbanzo beans. In Pennsylvania, nutraloaf is called a "behavior modified meal." It may be served to an inmate for a maximum of 21 consecutive meals.rnVisitors to the historic site can taste all five versions, record their thoughts on a tasting card, and decide for themselves whether serving nutraloaf is a form of cruel and unusual punishment.rnrnVisitors can also sample chi chi, a comfort food made by inmates using ingredients from the prison commissary or vending machines. Chi chi recipes vary, but commonly include ramen noodles, chips or cheese curls, meat snacks, and sugar. Formerly incarcerated individuals will prepare the chi chi using a recipe learned during their time at SCI Graterford, the prison that replaced Eastern State Penitentiary.rnrnAlso on view will be sample menus, archival photographs, and reports of the prison food throughout Eastern State Penitentiary's 142-year operational history.rnrnAll Prison Food Weekend activities are included with standard admission. Regular daytime programs, including "The Voices of Eastern State" Audio Tour narrated by actor Steve Buscemi, guided Hands-On History tours, history exhibits, and artist installations, are also included in admission. Tickets are available online at easternstate.org/tickets, or at the door subject to availability.rnrnAbout Eastern State Penitentiary Historic SiternrnEastern State Penitentiary was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world, but stands today in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. Known for its grand architecture and strict discipline, this was the world's first true "penitentiary," a prison designed to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of convicts. Its vaulted, sky-lit cells once held many of America's most notorious criminals, including bank robber "Slick Willie" Sutton and Al Capone.rnrnEastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is located at 22nd Street and Fairmount Avenue, just five blocks from the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The penitentiary is open seven days a week, year round. Admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for students and children ages 7-12. (Not recommended for children under the age of seven.) Tickets are available online at www.EasternState.org or at the door, subject to availability. Admission includes "The Voices of Eastern State" Audio Tour, narrated by actor Steve Buscemi; Hands-On History interactive experiences; history exhibits; and a critically acclaimed series of artist installations.rnrnFor more information and schedules, the public should call (215) 236-3300 or visit www.EasternState.org.rnrnPhoto – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150526/218600rnrnSOURCE Eastern State Penitentiary Historic SiternrnrnrnRELATED LINKSrnhttp://www.easternstate.org

Vita Gardens Partners with Garden Media to ‘Grow Life’

Vita Gardens Partners with Garden Media to ‘Grow Life’

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Philadelphia, Pa (PRWEB) May 27, 2015

Garden Media believes the key to success starts with its newest client, Vita Gardens.

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The portable gardening brand is partnering with Garden Media to introduce its flagship product: the African Keyhole Garden Bed. Both companies will work together to grow life, share life and bring life to the garden.

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Based in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada Vita’s mission is to inspire gardeners to grow healthy foods through unique garden designs, regardless of their ability. Its parent company, New England Arbors, has been a leader in designs in the Outdoor Decor category for more than 15 years.

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“We want to help customers grow, whether it’s through our products or our expertise,” says Ken Machan, Vita co-founder and president. “Garden Media will help us nurture our life-long customers.”

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The Keyhole Garden was first designed in Africa as a way for gardeners to grow food in severe drought and sweltering heat conditions. Vita’s modern version of this raised bed design captures the same spirit.

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It’s both a growing and composting bed that turns kitchen scraps and other household waste into rich soil. It also uses up to 80 percent less water than a traditional garden bed does and produces more vegetables in less time.

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The Keyhole Garden has a 20-year warranty and is constructed from attractive and rot-proof food-grade vinyl (BPA- free) with stainless steel fasteners.

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“We’re proud to represent another brand that is forward thinking when it comes to this industry,” says Susan McCoy, president of Garden Media. “They’re creating innovative, portable products that help gardeners around the world.”

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Through unique product designs and collaborations, Vita shares life with others by giving back and building gardens in places like Rwanda and local food banks. Every 4 gardens sold in the United States helps build one in Rwanda.

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Members of the Vita team will travel to Africa this summer to help construct keyhole gardens in several Rwandan villages.

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For more information about Vita Gardens, visit vitagardens.com.

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Vita is a design-forward, lifestyle and portable gardening brand that helps gardeners save time, money and water while growing greater natural yields. Vita’s signature product, the African Keyhole Garden, was introduced this year. Built around an ingenious gardening technique perfected in Africa, the Keyhole Garden is a combination raised bed and composting system.

New Philly Hotel Deal Offers VIP Access To Must-See Impressionism Exhibit At The Philadelphia Museum Of Art This Summer

New Philly Hotel Deal Offers VIP Access To Must-See Impressionism Exhibit At The Philadelphia Museum Of Art This Summer

Major Perk: Visit-Anytime Tickets For Discovering The Impressionists: Paul Durand-Ruel And The New Paintingrn

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rnThe Philadelphia Museum of Art has partnered with 15 area hotels to offer a one-night Discovering the Impressionists Hotel Package, which includes two visit-anytime tickets for its summer exhibition, Discovering the Impressionists: Paul Durand-Ruel and the New Painting, on view from June 24 through September 13, 2015. Philadelphia is the only U.S. city to showcase the blockbuster show, featuring nearly 100 works by Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, Degas, Manet, Cassatt and others.rnrnIn addition to the one-night hotel stay and two VIP tickets for the exhibit, the package includes special discounts for select museum gift shops and a complimentary dessert with a Chef’s Table meal at the museum’s Granite Hill restaurant. The package is bookable at visitphilly.com/impressionists. Here is a list of hotels offering the package:rnrnOLD CITY:rnrnHotel: Sheraton Society Hill, 1 Dock Street rnOther Perks: Overnight parking rnRates: Starting at $229 per night rnBook: sheratonphiladelphiasocietyhill.com, (800) 325-3535rnrnHotel: Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District, 400 Arch StreetrnOther Perks: Free overnight parking rnRates: Weekend rate starting at $229 per night; weekday rate starting at $199 per nightrnBook: phillydowntownhotel.com, (877) 999-3223rnrnCENTER CITY:rnrnHotel: Alexander Inn, 301 S. 12th StreetrnOther Perks: Complimentary continental breakfast buffet, free Wi-Fi and discounted rnparking nearby rnRates: $189-$219 per nightrnBook: alexanderinn.com, (877) ALEX-INNrnrnHotel: Courtyard Philadelphia Downtown, 21 N. Juniper Street rnOther Perks: 2:00 p.m. late checkout rnRates: Weekday rate starting at $219 per night; weekend rate starting at $409 per nightrnBook: marriott.com, (888) 887-8130rnrnHotel: Embassy Suites Philadelphia – Center City, 1776 Benjamin Franklin Parkway rnOther Perks: Two-room suite with balcony, cooked-to-order breakfast for two and complimentary cocktail reception every evening, 5:30-7:30 p.m.rnRates: Weekend rate starting at $224 per night; weekday rate starting at $244 per nightrnBook: embassysuites3.hilton.com, (800) EMBASSYrnrnHotel: Holiday Inn Express Midtown, 1305 Walnut StreetrnOther Perks: Complimentary hot deluxe breakfast buffet and free Wi-FirnRate: Contact hotelrnBook: himidtown.com, (888) 5MIDTOWNrnrnHotel: Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market StreetrnOther Perks: 2:00 p.m. late checkout rnRates: $229-$389rnBook: marriott.com, (800) 320-5744rnrnHotel: Residence Inn by Marriott, 1 Penn Square East rnOther Perks: 2:00 p.m. late checkout rnRates: Contact hotelrnBook: marriott.com, (800) 331-3131rnrnHotel: The Rittenhouse, 210 West Rittenhouse SquarernOther Perks: Breakfast for two, excluding Sunday brunch and room service rnRates: Starting at $349 per nightrnBook: rittenhousehotel.com, (800) 635-1042rnrnHotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia, 10 Avenue of the ArtsrnOther Perks: $50 food and beverage credit, 2:00 p.m. late checkout rnRates: Contact the hotelrnBook: ritzcarlton.com, (800) 542-8680rnrnHotel: Sofitel Philadelphia, 120 S. 17th Street rnOther Perks: Breakfast for two in Chez Colette and two welcome drinks in Liberte LoungernRates: Contact hotelrnBooking: (215) 564-4108rnrnHotel: Sonesta Hotel Philadelphia, 1800 Market Street rnOther Perks: Overnight valet parking rnRates: Starting at $204 per nightrnBook: sonesta.com/philadelphia, (215) 561-7500rnrnBEYOND CENTER CITY:rnrnHotel: Courtyard Philadelphia South at the Navy Yard, 1001 Intrepid AvenuernOther Perks: 2:00 p.m. late checkout rnRates: $219 per night on weekdays; $409 per night on weekendsrnBook: marriott.com, (877) 895-0593rnrnHotel: Crowne Plaza Philadelphia West, 4010 City AvenuernOther Perks: Overnight parking and breakfast buffet for two rnRates: Starting at $215 per nightrnBook: cpphilawest.com/packages-rates, (800) 439-4745rnrnHotel: The Inn at Penn, A Hilton Hotel, 3600 Sansom StreetrnOther Perks: Full breakfast for twornRates: Weekend rate starting at $249 per night; weekday rate starting at $269 per nightrnBook: theinnatpenn.com, (800) HILTONSrnrnThe With Art Philadelphia® collaborative is a first-of-its-kind partnership to position Philadelphia among the world’s great art destinations and to increase visitation to the region from around the world. The groups contributing financial and other resources to the campaign are: the City of Philadelphia, VISIT PHILADELPHIA, Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Penn Museum (University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology), Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, Philadelphia International Airport, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, The Lenfest Foundation, William Penn Foundation, Knight Foundation, Arts & Business Council of Greater Philadelphia, PNC and PECO.rnrnFor more information about travel to Philadelphia, visit visitphilly.com or uwishunu.com, where you can build itineraries; search event calendars; see photos and videos; view interactive maps; sign up for newsletters; listen to Hear Philly, an online radio station about what to see and do in the region; book hotel reservations and more. Or, call the Independence Visitor Center, located in Historic Philadelphia, at (800) 537-7676.rnrnContact(s):rnDonna Schorr, (215) 599-0782

Former Vietnam POW Ralph W. Galati to Speak at Special Re-dedication Ceremony on Memorial Day

Former Vietnam POW Ralph W. Galati to Speak at Special Re-dedication Ceremony on Memorial Day

SOURCE: Philadelphia Vietnam Veteran Memorial.rnrnFormer POW to Speak at Special Re-dedication Ceremony on Memorial DayrnSUNDAY, 17 MAY 2015rn

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rnRalph W. Galati, who spent 14 months as a POW during the Vietnam War, will be the keynote speaker during a special ceremony at 12:30 p.m. on Memorial Day to re-dedicate the Philadelphia Vietnam Veterans Memorial (PVVM) at Penn's Landing.rnrnGalati is presently the Director of Veterans Services at St. Joseph's University where he coordinates campus-wide programs for veterans, dependents and disabled veterans. He retired as an IBM executive after 28 years in 2007and then was employed by SAP Americas Headquarters in Newtown Square in their Education and Training business.rnrn"We're honored to have Ralph as our speaker for this special day, when after more than seven years, we have realized our goal to refurbish the Memorial and open the site to create more awareness and serve as a deterrent to vandalism," noted Terry A. Williamson, PVVM Fund president.rnrnThe Memorial was dedicated in 1987 and over the years, it incurred weather damage and normal deterioration, along with vandalism and abuse by skateboarders and others. In late 2006, the PVVMF Board launched the "Duty to Remember Campaign" in two phases. The first phase was to correct past damage and the $500,000 raised from corporate, government and individual resources resulted in new paving material, a refurbishment of the names, granite repairs, enhanced lighting, new flag poles for all branches of the Armed Services and a new security system. The first phase project was completed in time for the 20th anniversary of the Memorial in 2007.rnrnThe original design of an enclosed sanctuary made it an inviting targets for vandals and others. Police and security experts agreed that opening the Spruce Street side of the Memorial would serve as a deterrent to criminals who desecrate this hallowed ground. The so-called "wall of scenes" along Spruce Street was altered and the panels installed on the two semi-circular walls bordering a new entrance to fulfill the second phase of the fund-raising campaign and its goal of another $500,000. Opening the site also solved another problem. Despite its prominence among veterans, many people were not aware of the Memorial and with the addition of large granite signs and the new open design, the Memorial became more visible.rnrnA graduate of St. James High School in Chester and St. Joseph's University, Galati was serving as a weapons systems officer in a Phantom F-4 when he was shot down over North Vietnam with his pilot on Feb. 16, 1972. He was repatriated on March 28, 1973, and continued to serve on active duty in the Air Force for eight more years and the Reserves until 1981.rnrnGalati received the Silver Star, Bronze Star with one Oak Leaf Clusters (OLC), the Purple Heart with one OLC, the Air Medal with four OLC and the Air Force Commendation Medal with two OLC.rn

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Philadelphia Ranks Among the Tops Cities in Penn. for Drug Deaths

Philadelphia Ranks Among the Tops Cities in Penn. for Drug Deaths

Drug Rehab Philadelphia comments on a recent article published by Berks and Beyond, and extends its drug and alcohol addiction treatment services to all of Pennsylvania.rn

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Philadelphia, PA (PRWEB) May 22, 2015

According to Berks and Beyond, Pennsylvania has been established as a hub for drug related death, totaling almost 2,500 confirmed drug deaths, as reported on May 7th. The exact number, as reported by state officials, totals 2,489 deaths stemming from legal and illegal drug use in 2014. As the numbers work out, Pennsylvania loses seven people every day to fatal overdoses or other drug related deaths. The city of Philadelphia has been singled out as one of the most rife with drug related deaths. The city, along with five other counties, claimed 27.7 deaths per 100,000 population. Drug Rehab Philadelphia is an addiction and recovery center in Philadelphia. The addiction detox center rescues people with substance use disorders from their lives of addiction by teaching them the critical life skills necessary to overcome addiction. The treatment center asserts redressing the social stigma surrounding addiction will help people enroll into treatment, and promote environments conducive to healing, as opposed to public shaming. The addiction treatment center in Philadelphia is now extending its drug and alcohol rehabilitation and detox programs to all of Pennsylvania.

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According to Berks and Beyond the numbers of overdose and drug related deaths are slated to continue increasing in 2015. Tackling addiction at its heart is the most effective way to tackle the problem head on, states Drug Rehab Philadelphia. An associate from the drug treatment center in Philadelphia comments, “Addiction is not a localized affliction. The disease is both physical and psychological. Only addressing the topical symptom of addiction isn’t enough- and that topical symptom is addiction and substance use itself. Addiction manifests in the face of internal and external factors: poverty, environments of abuse, an attempt to self medicate internal traumas; until we figure out how to alleviate societal stressors which promote addiction, we’ll be unable to make the state and national progress we ideally want to see.”

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Drug Rehab Philadelphia offers heroin rehab in Philadelphia, along with other specialized addiction treatment programs. Understanding drug addiction and treatment is critical in overcoming the disease of addiction. The addiction treatment center provides patients with immediate medication for withdrawal, and offers drug counseling services to help patients navigate the unstable ground of addiction. Patients explore the underlying causes of addiction, and are given the tools to understand how to identify addictive behaviors and implement safe alternatives.

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For more information about the addiction treatment center in Philadelphia visit http://drugrehabphiladelphia.net/ or call (267)351-8139 directly.

ADVISORY – PHILADELPHIA – TOMORROW – PLCB to Celebrate Grand Opening of the Fine Wine & Good Spirits Premium Collection Store in Society Hill, Philadelphia

ADVISORY – PHILADELPHIA – TOMORROW – PLCB to Celebrate Grand Opening of the Fine Wine & Good Spirits Premium Collection Store in Society Hill, Philadelphia

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 20, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board will cut a ribbon to mark the grand opening of the Fine Wine & Good Spirits Premium Collection Store at 326 S. 5th St., Philadelphia, on Thursday, May 21, at 4:00 PM.rnrnThe renovated Fine Wine & Good Spirits Premium Collection Store offers consumers a new shopping experience with an expanded floor plan, greater selection, and a central service point with educational material.rnrnWine and spirits tastings will be held throughout the day for those 21 years and older, and light hors d'oeuvres will be served.rnrnWHAT: The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board will celebrate the grand opening ceremony of the Society Hill Fine Wine & Good Spirit Premium Collection Store rnWHEN: Thursday, May 21, 2015; 4:00 PMrnWHERE: Fine Wine & Good Spirits Premium Collection Store, 326 S. 5th St., Philadelphia, PA 19106rnrnMEDIA CONTACT: Stacy Kriedeman – 717.783.8864rnrnSOURCE Pennsylvania Liquor Control BoardrnrnrnrnRELATED LINKSrnhttp://www.lcb.state.pa.us

May 24 Marks PA’s First Fish-for-Free Day

May 24 Marks PA’s First Fish-for-Free Day

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 18, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Families and friends visiting Pennsylvania's popular outdoor spots over the Memorial Day holiday weekend can enjoy a day of free fishing, thanks to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC).rnrnThe Sunday of Memorial Day weekend – May 24 – marks the first of two free fishing days in the Commonwealth. Fish-for-Free Days allow anyone – residents and non-residents – to legally fish in Pennsylvania without a fishing license. From 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on both days, no fishing license is needed to fish in Pennsylvania's waterways. All other fishing regulations apply.rnrn"Fish-for-Free days offer an easy, convenient way to introduce friends and family to the sport of fishing," said PFBC Executive Director John Arway. "Many families already spend the day at lakes and parks throughout the state. Now they can try fishing at no cost."rnrn"We know that once people try it, particularly kids, they will see that fishing is a great recreational activity and they will want to do it more," he added. "And this year, anglers who purchase a license will enjoy $1 off."rnrnThe PFBC announced last fall that it was reducing the price of resident, non-resident and senior resident annual licenses by $1 for the entire 2015 season. This is the first time the PFBC has reduced the price of a fishing license. The discount is part of a marketing campaign to highlight the sport's affordability to families and younger audiences and to persuade lapsed anglers to return. It's being promoted under the slogan "Catch the Value!".rnrnTo make the fishing experience more convenient, newcomers to the sport can borrow equipment from dozens of fishing tackle loaner sites across the state.rnrn"We want to encourage individuals to try fishing so we've made it easy by setting up tackle loaner sites," adds Laurel Anders, director of the Bureau of Boating and Outreach. "Many of the sites are right at state parks, which are always a popular place for visitors on the Memorial Day weekend. But we also have loaner sites at county parks and some public libraries."rnrnClick here for the list of loaner sites.rnrnThe second Fish-for-Free Day is Independence Day – Saturday, July 4.rnrnMore information is available on the PFBC website at: www./fishandboat.com/fishforfree.htm. The website includes interactive maps, regional fishing reports, and tips on fishing fundamentals.rnrnRegional Media Contacts – Please contact a regional outreach coordinator for more information and to set up on-the-water interviews with Waterways Conservation Officers.rnrnNorthwest Region (Counties – Butler, Clarion, Crawford, Erie, Forest, Lawrence, Mercer, Venango, Warren)rnrnChad Foster rn(814) 336-2426 rnchfoster@pa.govrnrnSouthwest Region (Counties – Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Cambria, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Somerset, Washington, Westmoreland)rnrnMandy Smith rn(814) 443-9841 rnmirsmith@pa.govrnrnNorthcentral and Southcentral Regions (NC Counties – Cameron, Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Jefferson, Lycoming, McKean, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Snyder, Tioga, Union; SC Counties – Adams, Bedford, Blair, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lebanon, Mifflin, Perry, York)rnrnDee Fisher rn(717) 705-7919 rndeafisher@pa.govrnrnNE and SE Regions (NE Counties – Bradford, Carbon, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe, Pike, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming; SE Counties – Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, Schuylkill)rnrnWalt Dietz rn(570) 477-2206 rnwdietz@pa.govrnrnHarrisburg contact: Eric Levis, Press Secretary rn717.705.7806 or elevis@pa.govrnrn rnrn rnrn rnrnSOURCE Pennsylvania Fish & Boat CommissionrnrnrnrnRELATED LINKSrnhttp://www.fishandboat.com

Fresh To Order Awards Three-Unit Deal for Philadelphia-Area

Fresh To Order Awards Three-Unit Deal for Philadelphia-Area

“Fast-fine” dining innovator Fresh To Order (f2o) has awarded a three-unit deal with restaurant and convenience store experts Tony Chong and Daryl Ortiz, partners of The Kephas Group. The pair plans to bring Fresh To Order’s chef-driven menu of freshly prepared, healthy dishes to diners in the Philadelphia area next year.rn

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Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) May 18, 2015

“Fast-fine” dining innovator Fresh To Order(f2o) has awarded a three-unit deal with restaurant and convenience store experts Tony Chong and Daryl Ortiz, partners of The Kephas Group. The pair plans to bring Fresh To Order’s chef-driven menu of freshly prepared, healthy dishes to diners in the Philadelphia area next year. It will be the first Fresh To Order restaurants in Pennsylvania.

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Franchisees Chong and Ortiz plan to open the first restaurant by summer of 2016. They are currently in the process of selecting locations for the three restaurants and have targeted King of Prussia, Center City, and the Main Line. In addition to upscale, fast-casual dining, they will offer catering for area businesses and events.

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“We are confident that Fresh To Order will do well in Philly and throughout the state,” said Tony Chong, long time Philadelphia resident and partner of The Kephas Group. “We think the menu offerings are just what the dining scene in Philly needs and what the community will love.”

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Chong and Ortiz have more than 40 years combined franchise experience. Ortiz has worked on the corporate side and both have extensive franchising experience. Their current retail food holdings include 7-Eleven, PrimoHoagies and East Coast Wings.

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Earlier this year, Fresh To Order announced three other major market expansions, including Texas, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Multi-unit agreements have been signed for Dallas, TX; Charlotte, NC; Gwinnett County, GA; Knoxville, TN and Greenville, SC. The brand is also opening corporate-owned units in high-traffic growth areas such as the CNN Center in Atlanta and Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson airport.

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"We are delighted to bring our wonderful brand to the Philadelphia area with such experienced operators” said Pierre Panos, Fresh To Order Founder and CEO. “We’ve been planning our expansion North for a long time, and we think Philadelphia is the perfect place to start.”

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Recognized by Nation's Restaurant News as a "Hot Concept" and "Breakout Brand," Fresh To Order combines the quality of food fine-dining restaurants are known for with the efficient service and price point of fast casual. Its soups, salads and sandwiches are made to order in less than 10 minutes for an average ticket price of $10. In addition, Fresh To Order is a member of the National Restaurant Association's Kids LiveWell program, designed to help parents make the healthful choice the easy choice for their children when dining out. Combine Fresh to Order’s focus on healthier, flavorful menu choices with its open-kitchen set-up and commitment to great customer service, and you have an experience like nothing else in the category.

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Franchise opportunities throughout the South, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest states are available. For franchising information, visit http://www.f2ofranchise.com/.

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About Fresh To Order (f2o)rn
Founded in 2006, Fresh To Order (f2o), the pioneer of the innovative, "fast-fine" restaurant segment, combines the quality of food found in casual fine dining with the operating platform and price point of fast casual. With a mission to serve "Incredible Food" in under 10 minutes for around $10, f2o serves a menu of recognizable favorites with a flavorful twist, such as chef-inspired entrees, Panini sandwiches, soups and Perfect Bite Salads©. Quickly becoming one of the industry's most admired food concepts, Fresh To Order was recently named a Hot Concept! and a Top 50 Breakout Brand by Nation’s Restaurant News, and selected as among QSR Magazine’s Best Franchise Deals. For up-to-the-minute information join us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/fresh2order, or visit http://www.freshtoorder.com and http://www.f2ofranchise.com.rn
Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQz1cNfTRQArn
Photos: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1224jmav07626xk/AAAvzTh6Y5Lh5REYQPMRkIcTa?dl=0rn
And http://www.flickr.com/photos/f2o/sets/

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Media Contact: Ellen Hartman 678 399 3335