The first comedian who was kind to me and mentored me was the brilliant Kevin Rooney. He was so fun to be around. His political comedy was viciously funny. He wrote amazing material with Jay Leno in the 80’s and then for Dennis Miller’s talk show. He went on to write for a lot of sitcoms and had a an impactful stand up career. Every interaction with him left you with great wisdom and memories of brutal jokes and riotous stories. What I remember most were the long sessions hanging out with this master, him sharing insights about the craft, telling me stories about his travels. When I was twenty he gave a pack of jokes I wrote to Jay Leno. He was the first person who believed in me enough to do something like that. Jay did not think the jokes were ready for television. Jay was correct, but he took the time to call me and explain what I needed to do. The generosity of Kevin and Jay to a not quite there comedy writer was a lesson I never forgot and try to live by. Thank you Kevin. Sending love to your family and gratitude for the time I got to spend with you.