WHEREAS, The Philadelphia Parallel Parking Association (PPPA), a grassroots organization focused on curbing traffic violence and promoting parallel parking skills, held its inaugural parallel parking competition on October 3, 2026, at the South Street Headhouse District Plaza; and
WHEREAS, Among nearly 900 applicants, Mario Zucca was selected as one of fifteen competitors to test his skills in a contest that celebrated the precision, patience, and nerve required to navigate Philadelphia’s streets and squeeze into its famously coveted parking spaces; and
WHEREAS, Mario, who was born in Pittsburgh but has spent half of his life in Philly, is an accomplished artist and illustrator whose work celebrates the places, people, and culture that make cities distinctive, including his illustrated map of Philadelphia and his Philly Eats series highlighting the City’s beloved food establishments; and
WHEREAS, Mario’s professional experience demonstrates that an artist’s eye can be useful in more ways than one; and
WHEREAS, Contestants in the inaugural PPPA Championship competition completed three challenges: one-shot, tight squeeze, and a Philadelphia classic, parking under the duress of distractions; and
WHEREAS, With his 2012 Mazda hatchback equipped without reverse camera assistance, Mario conquered the three challenges and was crowned Philadelphia’s parallel park-King; and
WHEREAS, The PPPA Championship brought together humor, skill, community spirit, and a shared appreciation for the everyday experiences that make Philadelphia unique, reminding residents that civic life can be celebrated in unexpected and delightful ways; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby honors and recognizes Mario Zucca, also known as “One-Shot Mar” as the first ever winner of the Philadelphia Parallel Parking Association (PPPA) Championship held on October 3, 2026, and commends his artistic contributions and participation in this distinctly Philadelphia celebration.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to Mario Zucca as evidence of the sincere sentiment of this legislative body.
End