Last evening, just before turning in, I took a look at thekansascitychannel.com. I really did. This not just an embedded commercial for the KMBC Channel 9 web-site, where you can find all the latest news headlines and weather updates, everything you need to stay in touch with COVERAGE YOU CAN COUNT ON! Really, it's not. Anyway, one of the national headlines caught my eye immediately: "Newhart Sidekick Dies." Tom Poston, one of the funniest people ever on television, passed away after a short illness, at age 85. He was truly a TV trailblazer, lasting from the "Golden Age" of the 1950s right into the 21st century. He was one of those comic actors that could get huge laughs from just a subtle look. Many years ago, when Mr. Poston was appearing in a play here in town, he took time to visit my old talk-show, after*words. At the time, he had only recently lost his wife and was feeling a little glum. During the taping he did a wonderful job of promoting the play and sharing memories of his half-century or so of entertaining millions. After the show, as we were walking off the set, he asked if the interview had been okay. He was concerned because, he said, he was still missing his wife very much. As we reached the front door, he shook my hand, looked down at his shoes and said "I'm just so lonely."

So, it was great news, not too long after that, when I read that Mr. Poston and his long-time friend and sometime co-star, Suzanne Pleshette were becoming an "item." Sure enough, they got hitched. I suspect she took care of his loneliness.

Mr. Poston was one of those "Stars-In-The-Making" who cut his comedy teeth on the Steve Allen show back in the 50s. More than 15 years ago, Steve Allen, himself, stopped to chat on after*words. Then, several years later, another alum, Don Knotts, visited the program. Well, the world goes 'round and, now, all of these talented folks are gone.

If TV is part of heaven, which seems a little oxymoronic, they'd have a continuous Golden Age!

Thanks for all the laughs, Mr. Poston.