After 28.5 seasons on the morning show “Live with Regis & Kelly/Kathie Lee” and more than 5 decades on TV…one of my role models Regis Philbin signed off for the last time this week. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again…in my eyes…Regis can walk on water. The legendary host is the consummate entertainer, gentleman, and professional. He has more natural talent in his pinky nail than most people in their whole being. I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Regis throughout the 3 years I’ve been presenting at The New York Post Liberty Medal Awards. Despite his busy schedule and enormous demand to host/attend everything under the God’s sun…this 80 years young Bronx native has hosted the Liberty Medal awards for its 10 years of existence. The ceremony was born soon after 9/11…to acknowledge every day heros in NYC. Regis holds the Guinness World Record for the “most amount of hours on camera” (16,000+ hours)…but to a selfish fan (me!)…those hours weren’t enough. For the countless laughs…abrupt raising of the voice (“I can’t control myself!”)….warm compassion…and Superman-like abilities to break through that TV screen…and really reach the viewer…I want to present this virtual hero award to Regis. Click here or the photo below to watch my clip on this year’s Liberty Medal Awards. Witness Regis’ grace when I try to upstage him during our photo.

As to what lies ahead for “Live”…I’m not worried. Kelly Ripa will rock on!

And please….read more about the everyday heros that make New York the greatest city! Click here for the 2011 New York Post Liberty Medal Award recipients, including Eugene Lang (Actor Stephen Lang’s dad!). He’s helped thousands of local students attend college. And click here to see the winners from the 2010 New York Post Liberty Medal Awards, including Barton Brooks. He founded the not-for-profit Global Colors...which has a hardcore, effective grassroots style of helping people in impoverished countries. From Regis to these everyday heros…the Liberty Medal Awards has given me the…LIBERTY…to be inspired….to not just be the exception but to strive to be exceptional. For that…I will always be so grateful.