City Council:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF MOUNT VERNON, NEW YORK
RECOGNIZING THE LIFELONG DEDICATION
AND LEGACY OF BILLY MITCHELL (MR. “APPOLO”)
Whereas, the great City of Mount Vernon, NY, joins together to recognize the lifelong dedication and legacy of BILLY MITCHELL, affectionately known as “Mr. Apollo,” and
Whereas, BILLY MITCHELL has dedicated his life to uplifting the community and preserving the cultural legacy of Harlem and the Apollo Theater, serving as an actor, director, voice-over artist, mentor, youth group sponsor, producer, lecturer, and historian. He is a Bronx native, born in Mount. Vernon, NY, and one of 14 children who overcame the challenges of foster care and later gave back to the foster care system by becoming a foster parent himself; and
Whereas BILLY MITCHELL, affectionately known as “Mr. Apollo,” has been an integral part of the Apollo Theater since 1965, beginning at the age of 15 as an errand runner for legendary artists such as the Motown performers, BB King Band, Moms Mabley, Flip Wilson, James Brown, Marvin Gaye, and witnessing pivotal moments such as the Jackson 5’s first Amateur Night win. He has worked in nearly every department at the Apollo Theater since 1984, ultimately becoming the Apollo’s Director of Tours, In-House Historian, and Apollo Ambassador, educating thousands of visitors from around the globe about this iconic institution's rich history and cultural impact. He has been recognized for his extraordinary contributions to the community and culture by being a sponsor for the Mount Vernon Boys and Girls Club, Playing on the Edge Basketball Program in Harlem, Big Apple Leadership Academy in Brooklyn, Creative Art Works in NYC, and Families United for Solutions in the Bronx. He is also a recipient of the prestigious Harlem Honors 2023 Award; Now, Therefore, be it
Resolved, that BILLY MITCHELL is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to the arts, education, mentorship, and cultural preservation, and is recognized as a vital figure in the history and legacy of the Apollo Theater and Harlem; and be it further
Resolved, that the City Council joins with the citizens of Mount Vernon, NY, and many friends and family in recognition and celebration of Billy Mitchell’s lifelong dedication and spirit of service are honored as an enduring example of leadership, resilience, and community engagement, inspiring generations to come.