Growing up in Philadelphia, Denny Palandro was fascinated by the city’s Mummers Parade, an annual festival in which musicians and other performers don bright costumes and march along Broad Street.
Palandro — a Philadelphia District field account representative — is now a regular participant in the parade as captain of the South Philly String Band.
To him, the position is not unlike being a Postal Service leader.
“Management skills I need to lead the band are ones I have been able to adapt from leadership skills here at work,” Palandro said.
“It works both ways. Skills I have learned [by] managing people in the parades are adaptable to being leader of the band at work.”
Under Palandro’s direction, the 80-member band has finished fourth or better for the past 11 consecutive parades — including taking home first prize this year.
The band works all year on its routine, including raising money for costumes and props.
“We are always striving to improve musically and create a presentation people remember,” he said. “It’s a true team effort.”