Mike Kalvoda is a Mandan native, a friend of mine from high school. I’m sure he’s had many claims to fame, but one of the most locally well known would be his stint on the Family Feud with his mom Lila, and his cousins Ken, Mark, and Rick.

As I recall, the way Mike told it was that he was really bored with one of his drama classes and decided to write a notebook full of “I want to be on Family Feud” and send it in. He did so with over 10,000 lines, if I remember correctly. It worked, and he and the gang were on five episodes of Family Feud, one of the series’ favorite families ever!

That’s not the only game show Mike earned a spot on: he’s also been on The Price is Right, where he won A NEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEW CAR! in “Lucky Seven”, three episodes of “100%” with Casey Kasem; and “To Tell the Truth” where he impersonated his way to four incorrect votes as a human calculator. Thanks to IMDB for that one…they sure are a wealth of information!

You can check out Mike’s website for more accomplishments, such as a Pepto Bismol commercial and a “Will & Grace” episode. But I think the one he’s hoping for the most interest in is his treatment of the hit movie “Final Destination” as a graphic novel, published by Zenescope Entertainment. He’s done two issues, and I think he’s going after Grimm’s Fairy Tales next.

I haven’t seen Mike in quite a while, since he’s part of the Hollywood crowd and I live…well, here. Last year his mom paid me a visit at the Medora Musical during the intermission, thanks to my friend “Gentleman Wade Westin” announcing that the newlywed Clint and Stacy were seated front row center. I might have to come up with some little-known information about Wade next…I owe him one! Too bad he’s not hosting the Musical this year.

Anyway, props to Mike. I miss ya, buddy. I know your last trip back was for a family emergency, but please don’t forget to look up this blogger the next time you pass through!