I was saddened by the news today of Johnny Carson’s death. Mr. Carson was raised in my hometown of Norfolk, Nebraska and his name and presence have always been a big part of the town. Norfolk has always been proud of Johnny Carson, not just because of the fame garnered from many years on the Tonight Show, but because of the type of man that he was when not in the limelight. Mr. Carson contributed much to this small town, giving money towards a new high school several years ago, funding what is now the Carson Cancer Center, and other philanthropic work. In addition to making donations that caught the public eye, Mr. Carson was generous in private as well. For several years my mother worked in a local retirement center in which Mr. Carson’s high school drama teacher lived. Without any fanfare, and often by sneeking in unannounced, he visited this teacher who had meant so much to him and provided for her needs throughout the last years of her life. He was very caring that way. Being allowed to stay up late to catch the beginning of The Tonight Show was always a special treat as a child. Johnny, as a fellow Norfolkan, I wish you “a very heart-felt goodnight”.