Paula Kopicko

How rare was Paula Kopicko that over six decades away from American Bandstand, we still remember that adorable personality and mashed potato dancer/winner with Richie Cartlege! I can remember Dick Clark asking her how tall she was and her response, "4 eleven and three quarters" and she was my IDOL. This is to let her children and grandchildren know what an extraordinary lady is in their family.

The Mashed Potatooes contest was the light of my life in 9th grade. I cheered on Mighty Mouse and Ritchie, what an adorable couple! She was the "Gidget" of Bandstand. I was a lonely, unpopular girl and the kids let me know it! But Mighty Mouse raised my spirits; I hoped that maybe someday I would have her moves and natural charm. I wish she could have enjoyed a longer life, and Ritchie too. I'm glad they had the fun of winning #1 prize and celebrity as a treasured memory.

I never had the pleasure of meeting little Paula, but, she was my idle! I tried to copy her dance moves as well as her accent. I have always missed her dearly. I loved Paula! I hope she is doing the "Mashed Potato" in Heaven!!

I loved Paula! She was my absolute favourite on American Bandstand. I really missed her after she was no longer on. Anyone know why she left? Have fun dancing the " Mashed Potato" in Bandstand Heaven with Richie.

We all loved you Paula,
May your family know how precious you were to all of us.
Priscilla Bajema

We hurried home every day to watch Mighty Mouse dance. We wore our hair like her, dressed like her, and tried to replicate her dazzling personality. She is my #1 memory from American Bandstand and I will never forget the hours of pleasure she brought to my friends and me during the early 60's. Please gain comfort from the wonderful influence your loved one had on literally millions of young girls and women of that era. May God bless her and keep her.

Mighty Mouse is gone but never will she be forgotten as the little dynamo on American Bandstand who inspired millions of young teenagers. May her former dancing partner, Ritchie Cartledge, greet her at her home coming in Heaven for the spotlight dance.