Who is the most famous or infamous person you have ever met?

I was a news video editor before I was a teacher. In my 15 years working in NY and ATL, I met numerous people.

Historically

I shook the hand of Dexter Scott King when he was interviewed after he took over the King Center from his mother.

I passed by John Lewis at the Hotel Nikko during the annual Emmy Awards. Just having him in presence was a great honor. I tell my students about these encounters and their eyes light up.

Politics

In Atl, it ranges from a mayor ( Bill Campbell )to a senator ( Bob Barr ). In NY, I helped Sen Al D’Amato open a video rental plan ( yes, I’m that old ) and our local station ( my 1st TV job ) we regularly interviewed Gov. Mario Cuomo. I was always impressed how he could come back to the station a month or so later and remember everyone’s name.

In my years as a mom…..

We mostly met athletes when we attended a variety of sporting events.

Best memory was meeting Cal Ripken Jr and his brother Billy at a book signing. My son just finished a T ball game and his entire team ( the U5 Orioles ) had their picture taken with them. But the next story is probably the biggest encounter.

The Airport

Back in the late 90’s when you could walk up to the gate to meet a loved one , my 3 yr old and I went to pick up my husband from a business trip. We were early and my daughter had to use the restroom. As she was washing her hands, she started a conversation with the little girl next to her.

Daughter: Hi

Girl: Hi

Daughter: I’m T. , what’s your name?

Girl: Tiffany

Daughter: I like your hair.

Girl: Thank you

I must say, she had the most beautiful long, curly blonde hair. I saw her mom and complimented how pretty her hair was. Mom explained she just cut her own hair so she could spend more time taking care of her daughter’s hair.

The girls continued to have a conversation. My daughter said she was here to pick up her dad who was in Florida for a business trip.

The girl said she was flying to NY to spend the weekend with her dad.

My daughter said she liked NY. I visit my grandma there. Have fun.

We said our goodbyes when two women ran over to me and asked do you know who that was. I said YEP. She’s a mom just like me .

It makes sense. Marla Maples is from north of Atlanta . She and Tiffany were visiting her parents.

Now, it was Donald’s turn.