Working in radio for many years, I know just how difficult it is to go unscripted for hours at a time without repeating and regurgitating the same stuff. Van kept it fresh, kept it real and did it with style and enthusiasm that perfectly mirrored the emotions of his listeners. He never pumped up the action, he called it as it was. When Van got excited,it was for real, we knew it, so we caught that excitement from him. I missed him the moment he retired. I hope he hangs in there to enjoy the ride ahead.