A goodbye

As I was on my way out of the office today, I heard news which I knew was inevitable but still wasn't prepared to hear...Rod Roddy had passed away. The game show world truly lost a legend today. On top of that, he was one of the nicest, most talented ones. There's already a lot that's been said about Rod in tribute posts on the web and message boards. I'll just say that one of my first memories watching TV was linked to Rod in that one of the first shows I remember watching growing up was "Whew!" Rod's voice and charismatic personality were a presence in the many years of my TV viewing that followed from his infamous tag line on the final "Hit Man" to "Press Your Luck," and of course, "The Price is Right." I was fortunate to get a chance talk to Rod whenever I'd drop by "Price" and I gotta tell you, he could not be any kinder and more appreciative of his fans. A true gentleman...There is a bit of an emptiness in the game show world without his distinctive voice calling on "Come on down;" his great, energetic warmups; and his all-around good nature. Thanks, Rod...thanks for the many years of joy and fun you've given us for all these years...Thanks for being part of what inspired me to get into this wonderful business!