REMEMBERING STEVE ALLEN

I was at the Philadelphia airport waiting to board a plane to Nashville to speak at a Technology and Music MENC (Music Educators National Conference) Convention. When the seat numbers were called, I was in line behind a gentleman with a very old, tattered jacket, with an even more tattered carry- on bag. I think this gentleman also wore a hat. I had been thinking....hmmm could it be, when the attendant quietly said "Welcome Aboard, Mr. Allen". He acknowledged and continued down the jetway to his seat in First Class. I, of course, headed to coach. I remembered that he had just been in Wilmington judging some sort of entertainment event....therefore his "presence" in the Philadelphia area.
Waiting for him in Nashville was his wife, Jayne Meadows, with her wide broad brimmed hat and a bit of makeup...lol. I so wanted to walk up to him and tell him how much I enjoyed his talent and entertainment but I restrained myself, as did everyone else. I think that very few people knew his identity, also but I imagine people from Nashville knew...but they are used to seeing him there. There was one person talking with them but it appeared to be a friend.
When you think of a "big star", you think of eloquent clothing, an entourage and a circle of security. He looked the "least likely" to be anyone of fame. Actually I was shocked at his appearance of sheer poverty, but I hope it was only a "diguise". It is a "reflection" I shall treasure forever.