107697681
Over 113 editions, the Mummers Parade has helped performers and onlookers to part with the old and anticipate the new, and for its concentration on fun and fellowship, readers have dubbed it their top South Philadelphia tradition.
“We all look forward to participating and certainly appreciate such an honor,” Bob Shannon Jr., captain emeritus for Quaker City String Band, 1943 S. Third St., and the New Year’s Shooters and Mummers Association president, said.
A 54-year veteran of the revelry, the New Jersey resident touts its fostering a family feel among the attendees and the costumed entertainers as an invincible strength and lauds the latter’s insistence on performing community service as an added way to bolster numerous communities. No matter how low temperatures might dip, warm spirits dominate the day thanks to the infectious routines of five divisions that also perform overseas, with Quaker City having departed yesterday for its 23rd Ireland trip.
The parade’s competitive aspects always quicken pulses, with Shannon eager to iron out a more festival-like, fan-friendly setup to broaden the day’s already undeniable appeal.
“It’s a great feeling to have such recognition,” the former saxophone player for his Pennsport entity said. “Here’s to many more years.”
The Italian Market Festival proudly placed in second, while the Columbus Day Parade chartered third.
Contact Staff Writer Joseph Myers at jmyers@southphillyreview.com or ext. 124.
2013 Readers’ Choice Awards
Cuisine
Scannicchio’s Italian Restaurant: Gravy/sauce
Geno’s Steaks: French fries / cheesesteak
PrimoHoagies: Hoagie
Johnny Chang’s: Sushi
Nick’s Old Original Roast Beef: Roast beef sandwich
City Pizza: Pizza toppings
Green Eggs Café: Sunday brunch
Penrose Diner: Waffles
Popi’s Italian Restaurant: Business luncheon/banquet
FrancoLuigi’s Pizzeria: Romantic outing
Ristorante Pesto: Italian restaurant
Cantina Los Cabalitos: Ethnic restaurant (non-Italian)
Noir: New restaurant
Sweet Tooth
Termini Bros.: Cannoli (tie)
Potito’s Bakery: Cannoli (tie) / cupcakes
Italiano’s Water Ice: Water ice
Lerro’s Candy Co.: Candy store
Staying Active
DanceAdelphia: Dance studio
Girard Academic Music Program: Music program
Marconi Plaza: Place to walk your dog
Stickball: Schoolyard/street game
Guerin Recreation Center: Recreation Center
Wake Up Yoga: Place to take a yoga class
Places
East Passyunk Avenue: Neighborhood
Pennsylvania Burial Co.: Funeral home
Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School: School
St. Monica: Church
Ten Pennies: Florist
Chickie’s and Pete’s: Place to enjoy a game
Sports
Frank Natale: High school coach
Ss. Neumann-Goretti High School Saints: High school team
Citizens Bank Park: Pro sports venue
Chase Utley: Current Philly pro athlete
Ed Snider: Philly pro sports owner
And the Rest
Mummers Parade: South Philadelphia tradition
Councilman Mark Squilla: Politician
Social Scene: South Philly Review section
Disc jockey: Category not on this list
95723521
107697691
