Night at the improv

Tonight, I'd like to do a little juggling act for you!

Perfect description of running a news desk.

There is no script in the teleprompter, no written monologue.

I just show up with the expectation that this is a game of dodge ball and everyone in the newsroom will be throwing the ball at me at the very same time!

Non stop action.

I would not want it any other way!

You think I'd be a beanpole. What's a dinner break? Thank God I don't smoke. But if I did, that habit would be snuffed out quickly. It gets a little dicey when there isn't a spare moment to hit the little girl's room! I tell my producer, "I am running to the bathroom, cover the phones" and REALLY RUN!

Today it has been a revolving door of reporters asking for camera crews for EXTRA SHOOTS --a standup at W 83rd Street.....b-roll (video which enhances a reporter's story) for the 'Casino campaign' story.....the 'Tribe merchandise' story....the 'Joe Tait' 3000th call story....Indians' memorabilia story.....

It's a challenge, especially when unexpected requests, breaking news, & sports enter the mix of ringing phones, blaring scanners, and a myriad of other duties required to run a news desk.

It's days like these when I know I have a co-pilot! Thank you, St Gabriel, the Archangel (the patron Saint of broadcasters).