I have been crazy close friends with Tim ever since joining the NBC family. When I heard the news of his death, initially I was very sad.  That was until I remembered a conversation we had about a week ago. Tim told me "with that new Batman movie hitting theaters, I would do anything to have 5 minutes with Heath Ledger" - well done, my friend. 

Tim was always very driven and did what it took to get the job done. Boy, do I envy that. Now I'm just excited for the guy. I couldn't wait to call his family one by one and turn those frowns upside down. 

I first called his son, Luke Russert, to congratulate his dad's success.  However I was surprised to hear Luke's selfish reaction when he said if that was true, then he couldn't help but feel "a little screwed." 

After calling the rest of the family and explaining what a shrewd reporter Tim was, my inside information was not welcomed by these people. They will never understand the 'biz.' But Tim -- WAY TO GO PLAY'A!

-- Howie "I totally get it" Mandel