PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – Thank you Jimmy Kimmel.
The One and Only Local 10 News reporter Todd Tongen got to stuff his face again courtesy of the comedian Wednesday. Last year, when Jimmy Kimmel sent Local 10 News the Ms Cheezious food truck for lunch, Todd passed the lactose intolerance test with a couple of grilled cheese sandwiches.
This time, Jimmy's friend Chef Adam Perry Lang brought a "Caja China" for a grand lunch event at the Local 10 News studio in Pembroke Park. His paella had Local 10 News reporter Hatzel Vela, who was recently working in Cuba, saying "Mmmmm ... Que rico."
Here is a taste of the behind-the-scenes drama. The menu options had the spark of a Miami Spanglish party. With a professional mixologist in house, the hardworking Local 10 News meteorologist Julie Durda got her midday happy hour break on the patio.
And here is a newsroom rumor: Tongen got so drunk on the job that he had a roasted pig talking. But don't tell anyone. O.k. fine, just click here to watch it.
'WE LOVE YOU JIMMY'
After the lunch time party, the Local 10 News' team showed some "Jimmy love."
The infectious fanaticism even caused a fight in paradise, when Local 10 News' main anchor Laurie Jennings said she would drop her co-anchor Calvin Hughes in a minute if the comedian would come to South Florida to work with her.
The gorgeous Local 10 News anchor Janine Stanwood said she would shave her head for Jimmy Kimmel. Please don't do it. And with Valentine's Day approaching, Local 10 News sports anchor Will Manso felt compelled to unbutton his shirt to show off his "Jimmy close to my heart" tattoo.
The newsroom scandal of TMZ proportions happened when Local 10 News Animal Advocate Jacey Birch -- who is engaged to Local 10 News meteorologist Trent Aric -- was standing near the roasted pig. And while holding a drink, the vegetarian said she would have Jimmy Kimmel's baby. There was a loud gasp.
Jimmy, we love you that much.