HillcrestBlog by "San Diego News Service" (619) 757-4909

"San Diego News Service" covers hard news, features and reviews for local and national print media, and maintains, "HillcrestBlog." Address: 3907 Georgia St., #15, San Diego 92103-3548. Our editor is Leo E. Laurence, J.D., Copy Ed.: Martin Brickson. Member: Society of Professional Journalists, Latino Journalists of California. Call news tips to (619) 757-4909 (days), Nights: (619) 220-8686 (fax also). leopowerhere@msn.com Copyright 2008 by San Diego News Service

Friday, July 17, 2009

IT'S AMAZING CRONKITE LIVED SO LONG

by Leo E. Laurence

San Diego -- 7/17/09 -- Meeting Walter Conkite was a highlight of a trip to New York City four years ago. And, it is amazing that he lived another four years.

While representing the San Diego chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) at the international organization's national convention in New York, Conkite appeared on a panel.

We are all familiar with his TV image as "the most trusted" man in America as the anchor of CBS News.

But the man I saw that afternoon in the "Big Apple" was old and very frail. His voice was weak and hoarse.

Wherever he walked, he was assisted by aides.

But, he was still "the" man of historic significance.

When he left the elevated speaker's platform, as soon as his feet touched the floor, he was surrounded by an army of bodyguards.

It looked all so presidential.

But, he looked so frail.

I'm surprised that he lived for another four years.
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