I DID NOT KNOW Robert Novak personally, however in 2003 I attended a Goldwater Institute luncheon where Mr., Novak was the featured speaker , after reading Mr. Novak's columns for years I was excited that I would get to hear him in person. I was equally impressed with him as a speaker as I had been of him as a writer…I don't remember the speech, but I do remember Mr. Novak's treatment of his audience he was gracious, took time to hold a conversation with you like you were the only person in the room, he encouraged you to have your picture taken with him. I left the luncheon feeling elated that I had actually had a one on one conversation about my passion for politics with Mr. Novak and his encouragement to always keep holding your elected officials accountable. When I heard of his illness, I knew the world of journalism was going to lose a beacon of truth regardless of where it led. I am saddened to hear of his death and my sympathies go out to his family and friends. He may be gone, but while he was here, he made a difference and will never be forgotten..
