Honoree
This year, the recipient of our Thaddeus Stevens Award is former Senator Bob Casey, a leader who has dedicated his career to public service, championing economic opportunity, expanding access to healthcare, and protecting the rights of all Americans. Senator Casey’s leadership on disability rights, healthcare, and economic justice has transformed lives. We are proud to recognize his extraordinary legacy at this unprecedented moment when the threats to our communities and the rule of law are so critical.
Senator Casey has dedicated his career to public service, championing economic opportunity, expanding access to healthcare, and protecting the rights of all Americans. During his 18 years representing Pennsylvania in the United States Senate, he was a strong advocate for children, workers, seniors, and people with disabilities.
A national leader in disability rights, Senator Casey’s signature legislative achievement—the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act—empowered people with disabilities to save for education, housing, and other essential needs through tax-advantaged accounts. Since its passage in 2014, more than 187,000 people with disabilities have opened ABLE accounts with assets totaling over $2 billion.
Master of Ceremonies
David Dye
David Dye is an iconic Philadelphia DJ and radio producer best known as the host of Dave’s World and the founding host of World Cafe. A fixture in Philadelphia radio since the 1970s, Dye was a familiar voice on WMMR in 1970s and on WIOQ in the 1980s before bringing his enthusiasm for music to WXPN, the public radio service of the University of Pennsylvania. He also was a presence in the DJ booth all around the city, from his Funky Friday dance parties to his Friday Flashback nights at Chestnut Cabaret in West Philly. Renowned for his deep musical knowledge and warm interview style, he has been recognized by the Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia and was recently inducted into the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame.
Entertainment
York Street Hustle
Each week, ten musicians arrive at a former South Philadelphia funeral home where, one by one, they unload their old tube amps and vintage gear. Once inside, the classic sounds of the 1960s are reinvigorated, re-energized and reborn. Legends, like Stevie, Aretha and the Four Tops; lesser-known artists including Donny Hathaway, Arthur Conley and Betty Everett – all are given new life. In a few short years the York Street Hustle has gone from filling tiny South Street bars to repeated sell outs of World Cafe Live. Their repertoire now spans over 80 songs including more than a decade worth of Detroit, Memphis and Chicago soul. This is not your typical Motown wedding band. With grit, sweat, and attention to detail, The York Street Hustle is the Northeast’s premier 10-piece 1960s soul tribute.
