A MEMORABLE EVENING WITH CHAD MICHAEL MURRAY

My daughter was absolutely thrilled and excited when I shared with her the announcement that Chad Michael Murray would be at our local Barnes and Noble for a book signing. The evening was set for December 28th. “Of course, you can bring your good friend Amelia,” I told her. “This is too momentous an occasion to be shared with just your father,” I laughed.

You have to understand, she and I were glued to the set every Tuesday evening for the newest episode of One Tree Hill, in which Chad Michael Murray starred. Added to our enjoyment was the fact the show's young star was born and raised right here in Western New York. He is from Clarence, New York, where he played football for his high school team.

Afterward, he left for California, and as they say, the rest is history.

He starred in a hit television show and has acted in a number of successful films. And now, the actor had become an author and was coming home for a book signing. Of course, we had to be there. The work he authored is titled Everlast.

We arrived at the Barnes and Noble at 5:00 PM the evening of the big event. We were instructed to purchase the book at the front counter and then go to the customer services desk for our wristbands.

On the wristband was your number. Libby and Amelia were 223 and 224. I then realized … this could be awhile. Chad entered right on time at 7:00 PM. You can guess how I knew this. The sound of five hundred teenage girls shrieking in unison is a sound one never forgets. It was show time.

Much credit must be given to Barnes and Noble for their wonderful management of this event. They were able to put together a process that allowed for a calm and orderly procession to the star. However, it would not be a speedy one. It was an hour before the first 25 people had processed through. Oh yeah, it would be quite a long night, but it didn't matter. My daughter and her friend were thoroughly enjoying just being there – a sweet life lesson. And Chad Michael Murray was absolutely wonderful to each and every person he met. It was rare, those moments when I was able to get close enough to watch the action. But when I did, I observed Mr. Murray thoroughly enjoying himself and his fans.

In this day and age, we have become accustomed to the boorish and arrogant behaviors of so many celebrities and athletes. And I must admit, I was expecting some variation of that type of behavior. What I saw instead was a charming, kind and warm young man giving each person his full attention and time. He joked, he signed everything put in front of him and most importantly, he posed for pictures with enthusiasm and a genuine smile. He gave all of that to my daughter and her friend. It was a special moment for me to witness.

Afterward, the girls jumped into the car, delirious with happiness and telling me, “this was the best moment of our lives.” It was a truly memorable evening for me as well.

- Michael

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