Media Data
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Format
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Description
Pacific Pioneer Broadcasters (PPB)
luncheon held on January 23, 1970,
honoring Jack Hellman, a respected
Hollywood columnist known for his work with Daily
Variety. The event was filled with humorous
tributes, entertainment industry anecdotes, and
affectionate roasts from colleagues and friends.
Highlights include:
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🎤 Welcome & Introductions:
A brief opening by the stand-in host for Harfield
Whedon and introduction of the day’s speaker, Bill
Baldwin.
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🍽️ Guest Recognitions: A
parade of notable industry figures and longtime
contributors were introduced, including
broadcasters, performers, and producers.
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👔 Board Installations: Names
of newly elected board members and officers were
announced.
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🎉 Comedic Roast: Hilarious
and heartfelt tributes to Jack Hellman were
delivered with satirical flair, poking fun at Jack’s
career, personality, and quirks.
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🏆 Award Presentation: Jack
was presented with a plaque honoring his
contributions to broadcasting.
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🎭 Personal Reflections:
Hellman gave closing remarks filled with gratitude
and nostalgia.
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📣 Closing Notes: Future
event announcements, wires and telegrams from
notable names (including the White House), and
end-of-luncheon business were shared.
Main Speakers in Order
| Speaker |
Role or Contribution |
| Harfield Whedon (absent) |
President of PPB, unable to attend due to
illness |
| Opening Host (unnamed) |
Acting as emcee in Whedon’s absence |
| Bill Baldwin |
Introduced special guests |
| Jay Stewart |
Newly elected PPB President; gave a humorous
welcome and remarks |
| Hal Kanter |
Delivered a comedic roast of Jack Hellman |
| Ralph Edwards |
Presented the PPB Award to Jack Hellman |
| Jack Benny |
Surprise speaker; shared humorous and
heartfelt reflections |
| Jack Hellman |
Guest of honor; gave closing remarks |
| Jay Stewart (closing) |
Returned for wrap-up announcements and
acknowledgments |
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Jack Benny’s speech begins around 44:54
and ends at approximately 54:23, making it
just under 10 minutes long. It’s a
delightful mix of dry wit, self-deprecating humor, and
affectionate jabs at his friend Jack Hellman and the
entertainment industry. Benny riffs on not being invited,
ratings, reviews, and even threatens to sue Variety — all in
classic Benny style. |
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