GREAT TO HAVE AN AMERICAN ICON BACK

I missed the traditional countdown to the new year --- I fell asleep --- but did get to view parts of Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve as the man known as "America's Oldest Teenager" made his return to television after suffering a stroke over a year ago. He remained seated behind a desk, his voice hoarse and slurred, but he was back...and it was great to see Dick Clark back "in the saddle again".

Regis Philbin, who was Clark's substitute last year, hosted a competing broadcast on Fox, and Carson Daly handled NBC's show from Times Square (which ended just before 12:20 to bring in a Saturday Night Live repeat). But while one can attempt to copy the original idea, you simply cannot replace the man who brought us American Bandstand and who has helped us rock in the new year for 34 years (last year's broadcast was the first he had missed).

That said, plans are in the works for when Mr. Clark is no longer with us, or at least no longer able to actively participate in the broadcast. Thus, the co-hosting duties of American Idol host Ryan Seacrest, who in his young days already has experience replacing big name talent. He took over the reigns of Casey Kasem when the radio icon left American Top 40, as well as Rick Dees' coveted spot as morning drive radio host on LA powerhouse KIIS-FM.

We continue to wish Mr. Clark well and that he'll be back entertaining America on a regular basis soon.