WHEREAS, Paul Richardson, who entertained more than 70 million Phillies fans over the course of 35 years, died of prostate cancer on October 2, 2006; and
WHEREAS, Paul was born in Wilmington, Delaware and graduated from Wilmington High School in 1950; and
WHEREAS, He studied classical piano as a child and later played the organ at local clubs and restaurants while teaching at the Wilmington Music School; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Richardson received his big opportunity when current Phillies, Chairman, Bill Giles, hired Paul after he played for employees of the Phillies at a 1969 Christmas party; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Richardson began his famed career with the Phillies in 1970 and his music filled the air at the old ball park in North Philadelphia, Connie Mack Stadium, which forever closed its doors at the end of that season; and
WHEREAS, Veterans Stadium became the Phillies new home in 1971 and Paul Richardson and his organ would occupy a booth behind home plate until the Stadium’s final days in 2003; and
WHEREAS, Paul played music that inspired the fans and had them clapping with a repertoire that included tarantellas, Irish jigs, country-western, rock and disco; and
WHEREAS, During his tenure at the Vet he was famous for leading the “Charge” by playing the familiar trumpet blast and of course, his rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game,” which he played during the seventh-inning stretch; and
WHEREAS, One of Mr. Richardson’s fondest memories was when he and his daughter Vicki played the national anthem together, Paul on the organ, Vicki on the piano, at a Family Day game at Veteran’s Stadium; now therefore
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we honor the memory of Paul Richardson, the renowned organist of the Philadelphia Phillies, who inspired the fans at three different venues during a memorable thirty-five year career.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Paul Richardson as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.
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