The Blue Jackets, By George!

When I was relatively new to hockey, one of the men who took the time to share their insights into the game was broadcaster George Matthews.

He is truly a joy to be around: a kind, huggable, big-hearted man, whose enthusiasm for the sport is clear night in, and night out.

And tonight in Phoenix, he'll be calling his 1,000th NHL broadcast.

What a broadcaster! What a guy! Congratulations, George!

Note: Apologies for the lighting that, in some cases, makes it look like the speaker is a member of the Witness Protection Program, and Mike Arace for the Dispatch recorded a video for George as well, but unfortunately, I didn't hit the right button to catch his funny and touching tribute.