Draft:Angelo Molinari

Angelo Molinari (born May 26, 1989) is an Italian-American actor, artist, and entrepreneur from South Philadelphia. He is best known for his roles in film, television and for being the youngest Comic Club Captain in the History of the Philadelphia Mummers Parade

As a notable alum of Hussian School of Art and The Philadelphia High School for the Creative & Performing Arts (CAPA), alongside luminaries like Boyz II Men, Quest Love, Black Thought (The Roots), and many others, Angelo's artistic journey is deeply rooted in his city's vibrant cultural heritage.

As an outspoken business owner and dedicated advocate for the creative arts, Angelo brings passion and authenticity to everything he does. With nearly two decades of experience in the artistic realm, his work has graced both television screens and the pages of esteemed publications, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished performer.

Early life
Angelo was born into the family-tradition of Mummery and so he started crafting costumes, props and floats, and began performing and marching up broad street at a very young age. Joining Drama Club in grade school,(George Sharswood School) and winning first prize in the school talent show for his vocals Angelo fell in love with the arts and was immediately drawn to the spotlight. He went on to become a mobile DJ and even had a short-stint as a professional Elvis impersonator. He later attended high school for the fine Arts, painting, drawing and sculpture.

Career
Angelo not only pursued his artistic passions but also had a lengthy career in the automotive sales industry. Surprisingly, he actually gained the moniker the 'Paisan on the Pike' while selling cars for a Ford Lincoln dealership in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. along "The Golden Mile " on Baltimore Pike in Springfield Township.

Entrepreneurship
Angelo worked as a freelance graphic and web designer while attending school. As a sole-proprietor he went by the name ALM Graphics. His artistic contributions extended to clients all over the globe, most notably, Doors Unlimited a popular door and window company in Philadelphia and The Philadelphia Fire Department Amidst his dedication to his craft, Angelo also did various odd jobs while struggling to support himself and his family.

Angelo co-founded Thrifty Gift Card in partnership with a local charity organization Project B.E.A.R. although now defunct, it was a website to buy, sell and trade discount gift cards online. It featured an assortment of cards from a large selection of merchants.

Angelo also owns A-List Autos, LLC an online automotive parts company established in Pennsylvania since 2015; the business is no longer operational.

Awards and nominations
Angelo Molinari has won a string of consecutive awards for his lively comedic performances in the Philadelphia Mummers Parade including first prize Comic Club Captain at "Night of Champions" in 2015 awarded by The Philadelphia Mummers Museum. In 2006 he was named winner of the "Schools Of The Future" cover design contest by Mayor of Philadelphia. He also received the Digital Award for Artistic Excellence from the Philadelphia Sketch Club in 2007 and the esteemed Director's Award from the New Years Association that same year. In 2007 Angelo also won the "Fire Prevention Billboard Contest" held by the City of Philadelpia Fire Department He was honored by [https://www.firemanshallmuseum.org/commissioner-lloyd-ayers/#:~:text=Commissioner%20Ayers%20was%20the%20second,in%20the%20143rd%20training%20class. Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers] along with six other CAPA students and had his artwork displayed outside of several of the cities firehouses.

Earlier in 2001 he received the Spring Art Award for his work showcased in an exhibition at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. He received legislative acknowledgement from Rep. William F. Keller. of Pennsylvania's 184th District State House of Representatives and is also a distinguished recipient of the All-American Scholar Award.

Publications

 * "2014 Mummers Guide" Interview by Bill Gelman, South Philly Review (US) Vol. 66, Iss. 52, pg. 63 December 26, 2013
 * "The Fireflies of Weccacoe" book cover and illustrations Joan Morrisroe Reynolds (Author) August 15, 2008