Greatest Man in the History of the World

Legendary Detroit Tigers broadcaster Ernie Harwell, that's who is the 'Greatest Man in the History of the World'.  Turns out, I'm not the only one who is moved to tears by the man - even our pal Hank Studly said that when he was 48 years old, he shook hands with Ernie and even Hank Studly cried! I've told the story on the air before that I had the chance to meet Ernie once when he was right here, in the building, but I wouldn't do it because I knew I would just cry like a baby and embarass myself.  It was just enough to hear his voice through the hallways.

To me, Ernie Harwell respresented everything that is good and right in this world.  He was passionate, talented, humble, good and pure.  The warm, gentle timbre of his voice is a comfort from my earliest memories - makes me think of sunny days and my dad listening to the game on the radio.

Thank you, David 'The Mad Dog' DeMarco for giving me an Ernie Harwell autographed baseball this morning -- he knows how much Harwell means to me and I truly appreciate the gift.

And if you get a chance, check out "Ernie", written by Mitch Albom.  If you thought you never wanted to go see a 'play' before, you'll change your mind after seeing this one.  I saw it last summer at City Theater in Detroit - not sure if they're going to run it there again or not - let's hope they do!

And yes, that's Joey Pants photo-bombing the baseball picture!