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Now you might not believe this, but I'll swear to it being true.
Many years ago, early/mid '80's, I was living in San Francisco (not for political reasons - it actually used to be a pretty nice place to live) and somehow won a contest they were having.
It was a "Lunch with Maya Angelou."
I honestly had no idea who she was.
Anyway, there were about a dozen people and it was at some chi-chi place in Bezerkely.
When it was over, and this is the truth, the "host" went around to everyone and asked for a "contribution for the station." A few minutes later I saw him and one of the restaurant managers deep in chat with much hand movement and hushed tones of seriousness.
It turned out that the station did not arrange this with the place, or if they did the place declined 'dine now-we'll bill you later' offer. They wanted their money now.
I thought this was hilarious. I excused myself to the mens' room and exited the place.
Never found out what happened, but it was an oft told story to some of my buddies at the bar.