The Voice

There was a voice in Philly - silenced - yesterday.

And in his silence, there's left a space in my mind as well as a great multitude of others that is running through memories. Latest one, of course, most intense is the winning of the World Series last year. Biff and I watched all but one game together and I still remember her saying "we have to turn on Harry Kalas". We had to. And we did. We listened to him announce the last pitch of that magical last game and melted into the sound of the words "world champions of baseball". It wouldn't have been the same without him in her home.

Through my childhood, I went to many, many games. Heard even more in the walls of our several area homes and as far as I knew... he was the voice of baseball. The one and only voice. I didn't know baseball existed without it. I don't even know, as a child, if I realized he was real. But, I do remember it. Loud and clear. So many memories, so much excitement. Even in the stands of the vet, people would have on the radio so they could hear him call it. I always enjoyed that bit myself. Even if I couldn't always follow it exactly, perfectly, well.

There is a general sadness in the air. And the rain fits the situation. Not only was he a great guy in the booth but the news made it very clear yesterday. He was a very down to earth, normal person who treated people exceptionally well. Everyone keeps saying how much he cared and how he treated them with dignity. People calling into the radio, other broadcasters, and Gary Papa was crying on the air during the news. To love sports is something special on it's own. To love sports in Philly is fanatical. And Harry's enthusiasm hugged us all very close, let us know it'll be alright... one way or another.

So, like any loss, we can shed our tears and be cranky and let it out one way or another. Biff said she feels like she lost a family member. She was the one who broke it to me. I guess that's why she thought I was calling. And maybe, in a way, she was right. I didn't have anything to specifically say to her when I did call but then she broke the news to me.

Harry, you will be missed. And a part of my childhood as well as scores of others will also be missed. Thank you for your service and thank you for your love of the game. And, apparently, of people in general. Which is what the game is really about after all... the players, the fans, the spirit. You got that and shared it with everyone. Thank you.