Full Court Pressy

Okay, this will likely be only of interest to Chicago Cubs fans -- but a) it has nothing to do with baseball, and b) it's fun and only a minute.

As you may know, the Cubs have a tradition for almost 20 years ever since announcer Harry Caray passed away, carrying on his tradition of having a guest celebrity (some major, some local, some minor) lead the crowd in "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," accompanied by organist Gary Pressy.

It's worth noting, too, that the Cubs actually still do have an organist, since so many teams have gone to recorded music to entertain the crowd.  And since Pressy has been doing it for so long, he's a popular, if little-seen fixture at Wrigley Field.

Well, tonight organist Gary Pressy had his own remarkable milestone.  Yes, I know records in baseball are all about the athletes, but even though an organist, it's still a seriously impressive achievement.  This was Gary Pressy's 2,500th consecutive game playing the organ during a Cubs game.  He hasn't missed a ballgame at Wrigley Field in over 30 years!  I don't care if it's just for playing the organ -- not missing a day of work in 30 years is pretty darn good.

In appreciation, the Cubs gave out Gary Pressy bobble-head dolls, and invited him to be the "guest conductor" to lead the crowd in "Take Me Out to the Ball Game."  The big question the announcer's had during the game was "Who would accompany him on the organ?"  Oh, tosh, he accompanied himself.

What I love is that he gave his little introduction as if he was Harry Caray calling out to him to start.

So, in honor of Gary Pressy's 2500th consecutive game -- all rise for the 7th Inning Stretch.