NAB: Here We Ain't!

Awww yes, on this misty Sunday afternoon there's no place I'd rather be than lazing about my chalet. Except maybe Vegas. Okay, definitely Vegas - for as I sit here watching the dog chew something unsanctioned, broadcast prophets, gadget-happy madmen and assorted TV sleaze are descending on that glittering scab in the desert. Yes, NAB '09 is upon us and no, Team Slinger won't be in attendance. Last year of course the Mighty Weave and I rendezvoused with a certain Turd for a contemplative stroll through the globe's largest Electronic Media Show. Shots were hoisted, gizmos ogled, a treasure trove of tall tales traded and a number of doofy videos were made. It was a large time and if money grew on tripods, I'd be shaking off jet-lag right now as the Benefactor signaled the nearest cocktail waitress. Instead, I'll probably hit the hay early, then - you know, wake up and shoot an anchor package. Meh...

Still, not ALL is lost. Thanks to polymer technology and the always tall Kevin Johnson, I'll roam the floor from afar. The b-roll founder, along with dandy Andy Grossman can ALWAYS be counted on to ricochet from booth to booth, dodging the windier exhibitors and sticking a lens in whatever else finds their fancy. This year they won't have a blowhard like me hoggin' the glass, so look for some in-depth reportage and even a few outbursts from this thing the kids call Twitter. Why it'll be like being there without all the foot pain! I'm just sorry I'll miss the B-Roll Bash, for both times I've disgraced that particular gathering I've come away the better - minus the bed-spins. Oh well, there's always next year. In fact, more than a few of us have already vowed to share some air at NAB 10. You know, provided there's still some form of tee-vee being practiced then.