Watchdog

As dangerously dedicated WatchDog readers might recall, back in mid-September I was on call to serve as a "Phone-a-Friend" for my cousin Audrey's appearance on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.''

Well . . . thanks for your patience. Ms. Eldridge's episode finally appeared Thursday. She rose to the $8,000 level and squandered a valuable lifeline before time ran out.

It was nice to see her on TV. She looked good. I had not previously seen her on TV or in person since the summer of 1981. (She lives in Colorado Springs.)

I am strictly prohibited from telling you whether I was called upon. But if you are so inclined and do not have a job or school or anything, feel free to tune in at 12:30 p.m. Friday to see whether I make a fool of myself, help Audrey win $1 million or don't get called at all.

I can say that as I awaited the possible call, I was more nervous than before any TV appearance I have made before. It is not every day you are responsible for another person's possible financial windfall.

At 1 p.m. Friday, I can say whatever I want about this experience.

I will write my column now. If I were my boss, I would be very concerned about my work priorities. Please don't tell him about this blogging thing.