With my Millionaire episode airing tomorrow, it is time to begin sharing my story. So with apologies to John Lennon, here is 'The Ballad of John and Katy'.
Chapter 1
32 days after getting 'The Call', September 15th finally arrived and it was time for my wife and I to fly up to NYC for my September 16th date
with the Hotseat. I was very excited and after the past month had crawled by at a snail's pace, I was more than ready to go.
When I booked our flights on Delta back in August, I considered a 6:30 PM non-stop from Greenville, SC to LaGuardia, but it didn't arrive until
8 PM and I wanted to get there earlier than that. All other flight choices took us thru Atlanta, so I booked an 11 AM departure that got us
to LGA at 4 PM.
A friend was able to drive us to the airport and we got there just after 9 AM. When we checked in and got our boarding passes, our flight
had already been delayed until 12:30 PM. Fortunately, the agent was nice enough to change us to a later flight out of Atlanta because we
would not be able to make our original connection. OK, we just had to wait a little longer to go. Not a problem.
About 11:30 AM, Katy and I were getting a bit hungry, so we decided to get lunch from the snack bar before we had to get on the plane.
Just before we ordered our food, we found out that our flight had been delayed another hour to 1:30 PM. Now this was starting to be a
problem, but we went ahead and ate our lunch. Then shortly after we finished, our departure time had been delayed yet ANOTHER hour to 2:30 PM.
That was enough for me! I exited the gate area and went back downstairs to the ticket counter to find out what was going on. With the
delays on our flight and another flight that had been cancelled, the line at the ticket counter was long and not moving very fast. Finally, I
made it to the front of the line. The agent found out that our plane had been diverted to Memphis due to mechanical problems. No telling
when it would get here.
OK, it was time to change flights. That non-stop to LGA was available, but did not leave until 6:30 PM. Plus I didn't want to put all my eggs
in that one basket. If there were any problems with that flight, I was screwed - I had to get to NY today! The next available Delta flight
was one at 3:30 PM to Atlanta, where I figured there would be lots of options for getting to NY if anything happened to our connection.
I booked that flight and after getting our new itineraries and boarding passes, I asked the agent about compensation for the delay. She said
that because it was mechanical related, we could get two $100 flight vouchers and two $7 meal vouchers, which I gladly accepted.
After going back thru security to the gate area and telling Katy what happened, we continued to camp out at our gate until our new flight
was ready to board at 3:00 PM. With a short layover in Atlanta, we still would get to NY at about 7:30 PM. Not as early as I wanted, but
at least it got us there TODAY!
The Ballad of John and Katy (Now with Q by Q rundown)
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John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
The Ballad of John and Katy (Now with Q by Q rundown)
Last edited by John Doh on Mon Nov 02, 2009 8:45 am, edited 2 times in total.
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John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Chapter 2
At about 2:30 PM, we started talking about the timing of when each of us had to get to the studio. I pulled out my Millionaire paperwork and
confirmed the details for Katy. Then I flipped thru all the pages, just quickly eyeballing things. As I glanced at the last page which was a
checklist of items, my jaw dropped open, my heart sank into my stomach, and I simply said "OH SHIT!".
Very puzzled, Katy looked at me and asked what was wrong. I told her that I had forgotten to bring my Social Security card! Without that
little card, I wouldn't be allowed on the show! After I hyperventilated a bit and directed a few more choice words at my stupid self, Katy
helped calm me down to the point where we could think about what to do.
As I sit here writing this with perfect 20-20 hindsight, I realize there would have been simple ways to fix the problem if I showed up at the
studio without my SS card. Call someone at work, have them print and fax one of my recent paystubs to the studio, and everything would
have been fine. However, at that moment in the airport, there was only one solution . . . Get that damn SS card in my hands before we get
on the plane!
Since we were stranded at the airport without our car, we would have to take a taxi to our house and back, but with only 30 minutes before
our flight, I saw the clear choice. I had to get us changed to that 6:30 non-stop flight that I avoided when I originally booked our flights.
(Ironic, ain't it!)
As we decided on the plan, Katy told me that I should sit and relax at the airport with our luggage while she took the taxi home because she
knew exactly where my SS card was kept. I agreed to that and then went back down to the ticket counter once more to get our flights
changed.
Fortunately, seats were available on the non-stop flight and the agent rebooked us without question. Then I headed over to the ground
transportation desk to find out about the taxi. Now the GSP airport is a dinky little place with all of 12 gates, so taxis are not lined up
outside waiting for fares. Calling for a taxi to come to the airport would have taken who knows how long because there's probably only
about a dozen or so taxis in the whole Greenville metropolitan area. The only quick option available at the airport was a towncar service, but
even though our house was only 8 miles from the airport, that was going to cost $23 each way. With $214 in airline and food vouchers from
the original delay, I figured $46 for the ride home and back still left us coming out ahead in the deal, so I booked it.
I went back thru security yet again and gave Katy the details of where to go for the towncar service. She gave me a kiss, told me to sit
and relax and she would be right back. As she disappeared down the escalator, I took a few deep breaths and tried to relax. Our Millionaire
trip already had been quite an adventure and we hadn't even gone anywhere yet!
At about 2:30 PM, we started talking about the timing of when each of us had to get to the studio. I pulled out my Millionaire paperwork and
confirmed the details for Katy. Then I flipped thru all the pages, just quickly eyeballing things. As I glanced at the last page which was a
checklist of items, my jaw dropped open, my heart sank into my stomach, and I simply said "OH SHIT!".
Very puzzled, Katy looked at me and asked what was wrong. I told her that I had forgotten to bring my Social Security card! Without that
little card, I wouldn't be allowed on the show! After I hyperventilated a bit and directed a few more choice words at my stupid self, Katy
helped calm me down to the point where we could think about what to do.
As I sit here writing this with perfect 20-20 hindsight, I realize there would have been simple ways to fix the problem if I showed up at the
studio without my SS card. Call someone at work, have them print and fax one of my recent paystubs to the studio, and everything would
have been fine. However, at that moment in the airport, there was only one solution . . . Get that damn SS card in my hands before we get
on the plane!
Since we were stranded at the airport without our car, we would have to take a taxi to our house and back, but with only 30 minutes before
our flight, I saw the clear choice. I had to get us changed to that 6:30 non-stop flight that I avoided when I originally booked our flights.
(Ironic, ain't it!)
As we decided on the plan, Katy told me that I should sit and relax at the airport with our luggage while she took the taxi home because she
knew exactly where my SS card was kept. I agreed to that and then went back down to the ticket counter once more to get our flights
changed.
Fortunately, seats were available on the non-stop flight and the agent rebooked us without question. Then I headed over to the ground
transportation desk to find out about the taxi. Now the GSP airport is a dinky little place with all of 12 gates, so taxis are not lined up
outside waiting for fares. Calling for a taxi to come to the airport would have taken who knows how long because there's probably only
about a dozen or so taxis in the whole Greenville metropolitan area. The only quick option available at the airport was a towncar service, but
even though our house was only 8 miles from the airport, that was going to cost $23 each way. With $214 in airline and food vouchers from
the original delay, I figured $46 for the ride home and back still left us coming out ahead in the deal, so I booked it.
I went back thru security yet again and gave Katy the details of where to go for the towncar service. She gave me a kiss, told me to sit
and relax and she would be right back. As she disappeared down the escalator, I took a few deep breaths and tried to relax. Our Millionaire
trip already had been quite an adventure and we hadn't even gone anywhere yet!
-
John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Chapter 3
As I sat and stared out the terminal window patiently waiting for Katy to return, I had some time to quietly think about things. Like anyone
else, I hate delays at the airport and today was no exception. However, after everything that had happened in the past seven hours, all I
could do was smile and shake my head.
I am one who tends to believe that many things in life do happen for a reason. At that point, my mood had changed from so aggravated to
so grateful for our delays. Because without them, I wouldn't have had enough time to realize my mistake and correct it before we left for
NY. That horrible sinking feeling I had in front of Katy was bad enough at the airport, but having that happen at the studio . . . on tape
day . . . in front of TPTB would have been far worse (I fear). Even with there being ways to fix it at the studio, going thru that emotional
rollercoaster right before going into the Hotseat would not have been a good thing. So by the time Katy returned to our gate with my SS
card in hand, I smiled, gave her a big hug and kiss, and just said "Thank you" (to Katy and to the real PTB).
We used our meal vouchers for another quick meal at the fabulous GSP snack bar before we finally boarded our airplane at 6:00 and at 6:30
(about 9 1/2 hours after we arrived at the airport) our flight to NY actually began.
Once we got going, it was very smooth sailing. The flight arrived on time and with no checked bags, we headed right to ground
transportation to call Supershuttle. The guy on the phone confirmed our reservation and said it would be there in 20 minutes. That must be
what he says to everyone, because within 2 minutes we heard our name called by a driver. After picking up several more people, our driver
exited the airport and headed for the city. Our good luck continued as the first stop made by the driver was our hotel (The Roosevelt).
Check in was smooth and our room on the 15th floor was small, but still bigger than some of the closet-sized "rooms" we have experienced
on past visits to NYC.
We unpacked our stuff and went down to the bar/restaurant in the lobby for a late light dinner. Back in the room, we put everything
together (paperwork, outfits, snacks) for the next morning and got ourselves ready for bed. It was about 11:00 PM and we were both very
tired. However, just as we were about to get into bed, the loud noise of a jackhammer began serenading us from the street below. It
continued on for a good 15 to 20 minutes and I could tell it wasn't going to be stopping anytime soon. Fortunately, I have been to NYC
before and came prepared. I pulled out the box of earplugs I had packed and handed a pair to Katy and then stuffed a couple into my ears.
With the alarm clock set for 5 AM, we weren't going to get a lot of sleep that night, but having those little pieces of foam with us was the
only reason we got ANY sleep!
As I sat and stared out the terminal window patiently waiting for Katy to return, I had some time to quietly think about things. Like anyone
else, I hate delays at the airport and today was no exception. However, after everything that had happened in the past seven hours, all I
could do was smile and shake my head.
I am one who tends to believe that many things in life do happen for a reason. At that point, my mood had changed from so aggravated to
so grateful for our delays. Because without them, I wouldn't have had enough time to realize my mistake and correct it before we left for
NY. That horrible sinking feeling I had in front of Katy was bad enough at the airport, but having that happen at the studio . . . on tape
day . . . in front of TPTB would have been far worse (I fear). Even with there being ways to fix it at the studio, going thru that emotional
rollercoaster right before going into the Hotseat would not have been a good thing. So by the time Katy returned to our gate with my SS
card in hand, I smiled, gave her a big hug and kiss, and just said "Thank you" (to Katy and to the real PTB).
We used our meal vouchers for another quick meal at the fabulous GSP snack bar before we finally boarded our airplane at 6:00 and at 6:30
(about 9 1/2 hours after we arrived at the airport) our flight to NY actually began.
Once we got going, it was very smooth sailing. The flight arrived on time and with no checked bags, we headed right to ground
transportation to call Supershuttle. The guy on the phone confirmed our reservation and said it would be there in 20 minutes. That must be
what he says to everyone, because within 2 minutes we heard our name called by a driver. After picking up several more people, our driver
exited the airport and headed for the city. Our good luck continued as the first stop made by the driver was our hotel (The Roosevelt).
Check in was smooth and our room on the 15th floor was small, but still bigger than some of the closet-sized "rooms" we have experienced
on past visits to NYC.
We unpacked our stuff and went down to the bar/restaurant in the lobby for a late light dinner. Back in the room, we put everything
together (paperwork, outfits, snacks) for the next morning and got ourselves ready for bed. It was about 11:00 PM and we were both very
tired. However, just as we were about to get into bed, the loud noise of a jackhammer began serenading us from the street below. It
continued on for a good 15 to 20 minutes and I could tell it wasn't going to be stopping anytime soon. Fortunately, I have been to NYC
before and came prepared. I pulled out the box of earplugs I had packed and handed a pair to Katy and then stuffed a couple into my ears.
With the alarm clock set for 5 AM, we weren't going to get a lot of sleep that night, but having those little pieces of foam with us was the
only reason we got ANY sleep!
-
John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Chapter 4
Up at 5 AM and felt pretty good. Not well-rested, but did sleep. Adrenaline would be my major fuel for the day.
Gave Katy a big hug and kiss and told her I would see her later. Hopped in a cab right outside the hotel and was
at the studio very quickly as there was no traffic at 6:45 AM.
Walked up to the door and there was one gentleman already there. I introduced myself and Mike Bruno did the same.
Of course we started talking about our paths that led each of us here and he asked when I got the call. I told him
that mine came about 5 weeks earlier and he said that his came only 5 days ago. He had to scramble to get PAFs
and fill out the questionnaire, but he got everything done. He drove from NJ that morning and got to the studio much earlier
than he thought he would.
As we continued to chat, other folks in our contestant group began showing up and joining the conversation. Seemed
like a number of local people got the call only days earlier, but Remington Korper won the prize for best story when he
told us he just returned from London! We all were pretty amazed by that.
At about 7:30 AM, the studio door opened and a young man greeted us, said his name was Kevin, and asked if we were
ready to go. We all responded with an enthusastic "Yes!". After a quick security check with a metal detector wand, we
headed up a flight of stairs to our home for the day. The door closed behind us and we were officially in "contestant isolation".
Up at 5 AM and felt pretty good. Not well-rested, but did sleep. Adrenaline would be my major fuel for the day.
Gave Katy a big hug and kiss and told her I would see her later. Hopped in a cab right outside the hotel and was
at the studio very quickly as there was no traffic at 6:45 AM.
Walked up to the door and there was one gentleman already there. I introduced myself and Mike Bruno did the same.
Of course we started talking about our paths that led each of us here and he asked when I got the call. I told him
that mine came about 5 weeks earlier and he said that his came only 5 days ago. He had to scramble to get PAFs
and fill out the questionnaire, but he got everything done. He drove from NJ that morning and got to the studio much earlier
than he thought he would.
As we continued to chat, other folks in our contestant group began showing up and joining the conversation. Seemed
like a number of local people got the call only days earlier, but Remington Korper won the prize for best story when he
told us he just returned from London! We all were pretty amazed by that.
At about 7:30 AM, the studio door opened and a young man greeted us, said his name was Kevin, and asked if we were
ready to go. We all responded with an enthusastic "Yes!". After a quick security check with a metal detector wand, we
headed up a flight of stairs to our home for the day. The door closed behind us and we were officially in "contestant isolation".
-
ulysses5019
- Purveyor of Avatars
- Posts: 19442
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Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
I'm loving this story.
I believe in the usefulness of useless information.
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mellytu74
- Posts: 9624
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- Location: Philadelphia, PA
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Me, too.ulysses5019 wrote:I'm loving this story.
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frogman042
- Bored Pun-dit
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- Joined: Fri Jun 06, 2008 6:36 am
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Ditto....
Can't wait for both the continuation and watching you today.
Travel stories to the HS seem to be the norm as opposed to exception... glad you were able to pull it all together.
---Jay
Can't wait for both the continuation and watching you today.
Travel stories to the HS seem to be the norm as opposed to exception... glad you were able to pull it all together.
---Jay
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Bob78164
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Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread ver
I'm eagerly looking forward to the conclusion as well. --Bob
"Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because, if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason than that of blindfolded fear." Thomas Jefferson
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MarleysGh0st
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- Location: Elsewhere
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
But when will we be introduced to the "Plus Eight"?mellytu74 wrote:Me, too.ulysses5019 wrote:I'm loving this story.
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ulysses5019
- Purveyor of Avatars
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Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
What? I had to walk uphill to the studio in a driving thunder snowstorm with Jim Cantore on my back. And I had to carry Al Roker on the way back.frogman042 wrote:Ditto....
Can't wait for both the continuation and watching you today.
Travel stories to the HS seem to be the norm as opposed to exception... glad you were able to pull it all together.
---Jay
I believe in the usefulness of useless information.
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secondchance
- Possum Hunter!
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Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
When you realized you left your s.s. card at home, did you yell, "D'oh!" ?
Great job, John.
Great job, John.
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heelsrule1988
- Posts: 1114
- Joined: Tue Nov 11, 2008 12:55 pm
- Location: Raleigh, NC
- Contact:
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Great story so far... and great job on today's show.
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MarleysGh0st
- Posts: 27966
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Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Yikes!ulysses5019 wrote:What? I had to walk uphill to the studio in a driving thunder snowstorm with Jim Cantore on my back. And I had to carry Al Roker on the way back.
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ulysses5019
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Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Not to worry. This was after his gastric-bypass surgery.MarleysGh0st wrote:Yikes!ulysses5019 wrote:What? I had to walk uphill to the studio in a driving thunder snowstorm with Jim Cantore on my back. And I had to carry Al Roker on the way back.
I believe in the usefulness of useless information.
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heelsrule1988
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Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Hope he didn't go postal on you, Dan.
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John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Sorry it has taken so long for me to continue my story, but it has been a very busy week.
Anyway, back to the story . . .
Chapter 5
At the top of the stairs was a long narrow hallway. Our first stop was a small room on the right
with lockers and a closet. Post-It notes with our names on them were stuck on the lockers
and Kevin told us to put all our belongings (including cell phones) into our locker. The room
was so small that the 11 of us had to take turns putting our stuff away, otherwise it would
turn into a scene from a Marx Brothers movie.
Then we all were gathered in the larger room across the hall. This was the offical 'green room'
and it had various couches and chairs along all the walls. The decor was done in early
'frat-house' style, but it was comfortable. In fact, Kevin warned us all about sitting in one
particular couch (dubbed 'the sleepy couch') because it was so comfortable that most people
do tend to fall asleep on it.
The 11 of us all found places to sit as various conversations started outside on the street continued
there in the green room. Kevin and another PA, Greg, came in the room with us, shut the door behind them,
and began giving us their 'Welcome to Millionaire' speech. Greg clearly was not feeling well that day, so Kevin
did most of the talking. However, when Greg did speak, I recognized his voice as the one who was on the
other end of the line when I got 'The Call'. (BTW, I still have that message saved on my cell phone. Doubt I will
ever delete it!)
Kevin and Greg explained the general schedule for the day and the ground rules during our 'confinement'.
We could go anywhere on the hall during the day, except when a contestant returned from the hotseat.
When that happened, we all had to be in the green room with the door shut until they left. Bathrooms were
on this end of the hall and the food would be in a room at the other end. With that, Kevin told us that breakfast
was available and since I was pretty hungry, I was one of the first to head down the hall to see what they
had. Bagels, cream cheese, fresh cut fruit, and coffee made up the spread. Basic, but all I needed at that point.
Anyway, back to the story . . .
Chapter 5
At the top of the stairs was a long narrow hallway. Our first stop was a small room on the right
with lockers and a closet. Post-It notes with our names on them were stuck on the lockers
and Kevin told us to put all our belongings (including cell phones) into our locker. The room
was so small that the 11 of us had to take turns putting our stuff away, otherwise it would
turn into a scene from a Marx Brothers movie.
Then we all were gathered in the larger room across the hall. This was the offical 'green room'
and it had various couches and chairs along all the walls. The decor was done in early
'frat-house' style, but it was comfortable. In fact, Kevin warned us all about sitting in one
particular couch (dubbed 'the sleepy couch') because it was so comfortable that most people
do tend to fall asleep on it.
The 11 of us all found places to sit as various conversations started outside on the street continued
there in the green room. Kevin and another PA, Greg, came in the room with us, shut the door behind them,
and began giving us their 'Welcome to Millionaire' speech. Greg clearly was not feeling well that day, so Kevin
did most of the talking. However, when Greg did speak, I recognized his voice as the one who was on the
other end of the line when I got 'The Call'. (BTW, I still have that message saved on my cell phone. Doubt I will
ever delete it!)
Kevin and Greg explained the general schedule for the day and the ground rules during our 'confinement'.
We could go anywhere on the hall during the day, except when a contestant returned from the hotseat.
When that happened, we all had to be in the green room with the door shut until they left. Bathrooms were
on this end of the hall and the food would be in a room at the other end. With that, Kevin told us that breakfast
was available and since I was pretty hungry, I was one of the first to head down the hall to see what they
had. Bagels, cream cheese, fresh cut fruit, and coffee made up the spread. Basic, but all I needed at that point.
Last edited by John Doh on Sat Oct 31, 2009 11:44 am, edited 1 time in total.
-
John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Chapter 6
One of the first stories to come out in our group's conversation was how Shawna Edwards was
given the nickname of Shawndog Millionaire by her coworkers before she came to NY. We all
thought that was pretty funny and when she told us that her friends would be in the audience
wearing Shawndog Millionaire t-shirts, her nickname was immediately embraced by the whole group.
In fact, it became the springboard for the naming of our group.
Kevin told us that the group who taped the previous Friday called themselves 'Happy Jail'. This came
about when Kevin told them that they were officially in 'contestant isolation' and one of them joked
'So we're kinda like in jail . . . only it's a happy jail!' From that point on, that was how they referred to
themselves as a group. Kevin told us that story shortly after we all heard the Shawndog story and somehow
(not sure who suggested it first) we christened ourselves 'The Doghouse'. Everyone immediately liked it
and we took that as our group name.
Let me say a few words about Kevin. He is a young man recently graduated from college who started
with Millionaire for the Regis 10th Anniversary shows. Back then, he worked on the audience side of the
production staff, but had been moved (promoted) to the contestant side of the house just a couple of
weeks before we all arrived. In the opinion of all 11 Doghouse members, this was a smart move by his bosses.
Kevin has genuine enthusiasm, charm, and humor and he did a GREAT job keeping all of us Dogs loose and
laughing while we anxiously waited in the green room for our turn at the million. Without Kevin, we all would
have gone crazy waiting in that little room, but he helped to make it a fond memory that everyone of us will cherish.
One of the first stories to come out in our group's conversation was how Shawna Edwards was
given the nickname of Shawndog Millionaire by her coworkers before she came to NY. We all
thought that was pretty funny and when she told us that her friends would be in the audience
wearing Shawndog Millionaire t-shirts, her nickname was immediately embraced by the whole group.
In fact, it became the springboard for the naming of our group.
Kevin told us that the group who taped the previous Friday called themselves 'Happy Jail'. This came
about when Kevin told them that they were officially in 'contestant isolation' and one of them joked
'So we're kinda like in jail . . . only it's a happy jail!' From that point on, that was how they referred to
themselves as a group. Kevin told us that story shortly after we all heard the Shawndog story and somehow
(not sure who suggested it first) we christened ourselves 'The Doghouse'. Everyone immediately liked it
and we took that as our group name.
Let me say a few words about Kevin. He is a young man recently graduated from college who started
with Millionaire for the Regis 10th Anniversary shows. Back then, he worked on the audience side of the
production staff, but had been moved (promoted) to the contestant side of the house just a couple of
weeks before we all arrived. In the opinion of all 11 Doghouse members, this was a smart move by his bosses.
Kevin has genuine enthusiasm, charm, and humor and he did a GREAT job keeping all of us Dogs loose and
laughing while we anxiously waited in the green room for our turn at the million. Without Kevin, we all would
have gone crazy waiting in that little room, but he helped to make it a fond memory that everyone of us will cherish.
-
John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Chapter 7
Throughout the morning as we munched on our breakfast and each shared stories about ourselves
with the group, various people paid us a visit in the green room. First was the producer (her name
escapes me right now), who talked with us about various things, including general game play rules.
Then came the lawyer with a more serious discussion about following the rules and keeping our mouths
shut about any results until our show airs. His talk had a few lighter moments in it, but overall it was
what you would expect from the house lawyer. Last was the publicist who had us fill out a questionnaire
that would help her contact the appropriate media outlets prior to the airing of our shows.
We had to put up with those mundane things in order to get to the first fun event of the day, which was
heading down to the studio for rehearsal. At about 10 AM, we lined up in the hallway and Kevin led the
way down various staircases and thru more halls until we reached the actual Millionaire set . . . well, at
least the underside of it. Dark, very cool, and quite ugly at first, everything changed as we walked out
on to the set with the hotseat and screens in front of us. Yes, it is much smaller than it appears on TV,
but it still made us take deep breaths and say 'Wow! This really is it!' as we looked all around.
The producer met us and had us gather around the hotseat as she gave us a tour of the game screen,
showing several sample questions (using the DD and ATA lifelines). Then the floor director came out and
gave us the most important instructions of the day . . . how to get in and out of the hotseat without looking
like a total klutz! After we each got a chance to enter and exit the hotseat on our own, it was time to
head back up to the green room. After months of waiting, this brief visit to the studio made it feel very
'real' to me for the first time since I received the happy postcard.
Throughout the morning as we munched on our breakfast and each shared stories about ourselves
with the group, various people paid us a visit in the green room. First was the producer (her name
escapes me right now), who talked with us about various things, including general game play rules.
Then came the lawyer with a more serious discussion about following the rules and keeping our mouths
shut about any results until our show airs. His talk had a few lighter moments in it, but overall it was
what you would expect from the house lawyer. Last was the publicist who had us fill out a questionnaire
that would help her contact the appropriate media outlets prior to the airing of our shows.
We had to put up with those mundane things in order to get to the first fun event of the day, which was
heading down to the studio for rehearsal. At about 10 AM, we lined up in the hallway and Kevin led the
way down various staircases and thru more halls until we reached the actual Millionaire set . . . well, at
least the underside of it. Dark, very cool, and quite ugly at first, everything changed as we walked out
on to the set with the hotseat and screens in front of us. Yes, it is much smaller than it appears on TV,
but it still made us take deep breaths and say 'Wow! This really is it!' as we looked all around.
The producer met us and had us gather around the hotseat as she gave us a tour of the game screen,
showing several sample questions (using the DD and ATA lifelines). Then the floor director came out and
gave us the most important instructions of the day . . . how to get in and out of the hotseat without looking
like a total klutz! After we each got a chance to enter and exit the hotseat on our own, it was time to
head back up to the green room. After months of waiting, this brief visit to the studio made it feel very
'real' to me for the first time since I received the happy postcard.
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John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Well, if the show title is going to rhyme, it would be 'John and Katy Plus Eighty' and that just ain't gonna happen!MarleysGh0st wrote:But when will we be introduced to the "Plus Eight"?
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John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Chapter 8
OK . . . Time to just hit the remaining highlights and then cut to the chase - The question by question rundown.
- Really enjoyed the contestant intros to the audience. Actually got to do that 3 times (twice on Wed
and once more on Thur) and it really got my adrenaline going every time!
- Late in the day on Wed, Erica Rubin, Gary Forsberg, and I were the last ones in the green room. We
were sure that we would have to come back tomorrow to play. Then suddenly, an AP came in, pointed
my way, and I was on my way to the studio. Shawna was in the hotseat, Ray was on deck, and I was
in the hole. No sooner had I gotten settled in my seat just offstage, then Shawna missed her $7,500
question and Ray went into the hotseat. All of the sudden, I was on deck and seated on stage, but the
final horn of the day sounded after Ray got his $7,500 question right. I was relieved to know that my
time would be tomorrow.
- Checked with my PAFs and I was happy to hear that they all were available for Thurs, though I had one
back-up person ready in the wings.
- Much better night at the hotel. No overnight jackhammering and no need for earplugs! Got a good night's sleep
and felt very good the next morning as I arrived at the studio at 10:15 AM. Today WAS the day!
OK . . . Time to just hit the remaining highlights and then cut to the chase - The question by question rundown.
- Really enjoyed the contestant intros to the audience. Actually got to do that 3 times (twice on Wed
and once more on Thur) and it really got my adrenaline going every time!
- Late in the day on Wed, Erica Rubin, Gary Forsberg, and I were the last ones in the green room. We
were sure that we would have to come back tomorrow to play. Then suddenly, an AP came in, pointed
my way, and I was on my way to the studio. Shawna was in the hotseat, Ray was on deck, and I was
in the hole. No sooner had I gotten settled in my seat just offstage, then Shawna missed her $7,500
question and Ray went into the hotseat. All of the sudden, I was on deck and seated on stage, but the
final horn of the day sounded after Ray got his $7,500 question right. I was relieved to know that my
time would be tomorrow.
- Checked with my PAFs and I was happy to hear that they all were available for Thurs, though I had one
back-up person ready in the wings.
- Much better night at the hotel. No overnight jackhammering and no need for earplugs! Got a good night's sleep
and felt very good the next morning as I arrived at the studio at 10:15 AM. Today WAS the day!
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John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Chapter 9
I was seated on stage in the audience ready to watch Ray Reyes work thru the rest of his stack when
he suddenly went out on his first question of the day. I watched him walk off the stage and then it
hit me . . . OMG, it's my turn and I missed my cue!!!! That's why I kinda rushed onto the stage to
greet Meredith. Managed to get myself seated and there I was . . . in the hotseat about to see my
first question. I was excited, but really felt very calm.
Question 1.
Have been to Red Lobster and had popcorn shrimp. Didn't know they claimed to invent it, but it was
the only possible answer.
Question 2.
Had heard about the Obama fly-swatting incident, but didn't know about PETA's resulting gift. Again,
PETA was the only possible answer, but I didn't know they cared about insects too.
Question 3.
Not very knowledgeable about gem stones, but actually had reviewed some basics that morning. Was pretty sure
I knew the answer, but had to take a few ticks of the clock to just make sure I was sure that emeralds are green.
Question 4.
Family Feud - Knew this one before the answers came up.
Question 5.
Killer Apps - As a software developer, I better not miss this one!
First 5 questions under my belt, all lifelines intact, and 5K in my pocket. Feeling a bit relieved as we go to the first break.
I was seated on stage in the audience ready to watch Ray Reyes work thru the rest of his stack when
he suddenly went out on his first question of the day. I watched him walk off the stage and then it
hit me . . . OMG, it's my turn and I missed my cue!!!! That's why I kinda rushed onto the stage to
greet Meredith. Managed to get myself seated and there I was . . . in the hotseat about to see my
first question. I was excited, but really felt very calm.
Question 1.
Have been to Red Lobster and had popcorn shrimp. Didn't know they claimed to invent it, but it was
the only possible answer.
Question 2.
Had heard about the Obama fly-swatting incident, but didn't know about PETA's resulting gift. Again,
PETA was the only possible answer, but I didn't know they cared about insects too.
Question 3.
Not very knowledgeable about gem stones, but actually had reviewed some basics that morning. Was pretty sure
I knew the answer, but had to take a few ticks of the clock to just make sure I was sure that emeralds are green.
Question 4.
Family Feud - Knew this one before the answers came up.
Question 5.
Killer Apps - As a software developer, I better not miss this one!
First 5 questions under my belt, all lifelines intact, and 5K in my pocket. Feeling a bit relieved as we go to the first break.
Last edited by John Doh on Sun Nov 01, 2009 10:11 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Question 6.
Have seen Olympic runners jumping over a water pit and just had to read all the answers to
make sure that steeplchase was the event I was looking for.
Question 7.
Was very happy to see this question, but when the answers came up, I had to get the song
to play in my head before answering. Just had to make sure I didn't hear Julie Andrews singing
it. Once I heard the playback, I knew it was Snow White.
Question 8.
I read 'Hidden in the word . . . ' and interpreted it as 'anagram'. Then I see 'capital city of what South
American country'. Oh crap! Hate anagrams and not strong on South American capitals. Earlier than I
hoped, but I knew it was PAF time. PAF Larry had physical maps in front of him, but knew that the
world map he had was fairly small - probably hard to pick out the capital cities. Decided Bob#s was the
one to call on this. At that moment, I had no idea this was to be Bob's PAF swansong.
Have seen Olympic runners jumping over a water pit and just had to read all the answers to
make sure that steeplchase was the event I was looking for.
Question 7.
Was very happy to see this question, but when the answers came up, I had to get the song
to play in my head before answering. Just had to make sure I didn't hear Julie Andrews singing
it. Once I heard the playback, I knew it was Snow White.
Question 8.
I read 'Hidden in the word . . . ' and interpreted it as 'anagram'. Then I see 'capital city of what South
American country'. Oh crap! Hate anagrams and not strong on South American capitals. Earlier than I
hoped, but I knew it was PAF time. PAF Larry had physical maps in front of him, but knew that the
world map he had was fairly small - probably hard to pick out the capital cities. Decided Bob#s was the
one to call on this. At that moment, I had no idea this was to be Bob's PAF swansong.
Last edited by John Doh on Mon Nov 02, 2009 7:17 am, edited 1 time in total.
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Bob78164
- Bored Moderator
- Posts: 22034
- Joined: Mon Oct 08, 2007 12:02 pm
- Location: By the phone
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread ver
Why PAF instead of ATA? --BobJohn Doh wrote:Not as early as I hoped, but I knew it was PAF time. PAF Larry had physical maps in front of him, but knew that the world map he had was fairly small - probably hard to pick out the capital cities. Decided Bob#s was the one to call on this. At that moment, I had no idea this was to be Bob's PAF swansong.
"Question with boldness even the existence of a God; because, if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason than that of blindfolded fear." Thomas Jefferson
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John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Never really considered ATA for this question. Just felt like South American capitals wouldn't be a slam-dunk with ATA.Bob78164 wrote:Why PAF instead of ATA? --BobJohn Doh wrote:Not as early as I hoped, but I knew it was PAF time. PAF Larry had physical maps in front of him, but knew that the world map he had was fairly small - probably hard to pick out the capital cities. Decided Bob#s was the one to call on this. At that moment, I had no idea this was to be Bob's PAF swansong.
After eliminating Larry, it came down to Bob and my nephew Tom (also a Jeopardy champ and hi-speed Googler).
Remembered that geography was one of Bob's strengths, so the choice was obvious!
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John Doh
- Posts: 58
- Joined: Mon Jun 15, 2009 2:12 pm
Re: The Ballad of John and Katy (Single thread version)
Question 8 (continued).
Briefly debated reading the question as is or saying 'South American capitals' first and then
paraphrasing, but decided to go with as is. Was extremely happy when Bob answered before
I even had a chance to read the choices. Of course, when I asked Bob 'How sure are you?', my
tongue was placed firmly in my cheek. Then when Bob came back with his question (I had no idea
that was coming) and Meredith blushed but ultimately confessed that she's 'always liked that guy',
I knew that a great and entertaining PAF call had just happened! TPTB will really miss those one day.
With 110% confidence, I answered C - Ecuador - Final answer!
After learning of the demise of the PAF lifeline and then watching Bob#s final PAF performace on TV last
week, I think that Bob's number (78164) should be retired and his jersey raised to the Bored rafters. The
PAF hall of fame committee immediately should put Bob's name on the ballot.
Briefly debated reading the question as is or saying 'South American capitals' first and then
paraphrasing, but decided to go with as is. Was extremely happy when Bob answered before
I even had a chance to read the choices. Of course, when I asked Bob 'How sure are you?', my
tongue was placed firmly in my cheek. Then when Bob came back with his question (I had no idea
that was coming) and Meredith blushed but ultimately confessed that she's 'always liked that guy',
I knew that a great and entertaining PAF call had just happened! TPTB will really miss those one day.
With 110% confidence, I answered C - Ecuador - Final answer!
After learning of the demise of the PAF lifeline and then watching Bob#s final PAF performace on TV last
week, I think that Bob's number (78164) should be retired and his jersey raised to the Bored rafters. The
PAF hall of fame committee immediately should put Bob's name on the ballot.