I Gotta Be Me....Sammy

"I gotta be me..."  It was a Thursday night. Sammy Davis Jr. walked through the "Artist Entrance" looking for Dean.   The Artist Entry  lot was private parking for NBC star's and guests..  All the big stars from the "Golden Age of Television," Dino, Hope, Benny, Berle  passed through the AE's hallowed doors on their way to their dressing rooms.  It's early evening and Sammy walks in, top hat, tan suit, cane, dapper as ever.  I'm  behind the Artist Entrance desk. He checks out my name tag, "Hey Mike, how do I get to Dean's dressing room?" I figured we were on a first name basis,  I said, 'Sammy, Dean tapes on Sunday's. His show's on national TV later tonight, he's not here. " He was embarrassed,  "I knew that." He gave me a big smile, spun around, and walked out through the AE doors. I'll never forget, "The Candy Man."