But first, a word from our sponsor

The San Francisco PBS station has been airing a series called "Pioneers of Television." Beginning with the late-night talk-show hosts, so far it has covered variety shows, early situation comedies, and game and quiz shows. Much of the footage originated in the 1950s and '60s, and it's brought back memories of sitting with my family and watching Perry Como, Sid Ceasar, The Honeymooners, This Is Your Life, and, especially, the game shows—What's My Line, and Password.

But even better than the video clips are the glimpses of the products that sponsored these shows. Many of them are long gone, or at least I haven't seen them lately—Helene Curtis was one; so was Dristan (is this still available?). My favorite so far is Stoppette spray deodorant, smack on the front of the What's My Line? panel depicted as a great big bottle shooting out a spray of droplets. I remember Stoppette, though I don't recall it reminding me of nasal spray.