Many years ago when I was with Leitch Technology, we had a seating and coffee area on the back of the booth, open to the aisle. One day at end of show I noticed a guy sitting alone and quietly making notes in his book; curious, I walked by and looked at his badge - it was Ray Dolby.
Young, foolish and in awe of a hero, I approached him and said something ineloquent like "Excuse me, you're Ray Dolby". He replied "Well yes, but who are you?". Recovering no composure at all, I introduced myself told him what a huge fan I was of his contributions, typical starstruck nonsense. He invited me to sit and we chatted for a half hour. I wanted to ask him all sorts of Dolby questions but all he wanted was to ask me about myself, my job, opinions on various things - RAY DOLBY of all people.
It's all a blur from there, I recall a wonderful conversation and loss of fear after a minute or two, we talked about all manner of things like he had nothing better to do. I walked away completely flabbergasted that this had happened, and was struck (and am to this day) that this giant of our industry who I expected to say "nice to meet you" and no more took the time to give a young guy a thrill he'll always remember. A class act all the way.
Paul Briscoe | Toronto, Canada
Paul Briscoe is a chief architect with TAG.
You were just glued to the screen. That song came on the radio. The best NAB Show you ever attended.
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