Monday, August 2, 2010

Friendly Encounters

This is a weekly feature highlighting friends who have met celebs.

I have written about John Schenk a few times. He is a young guy who is doing great things in St. Louis. He runs Show-Me-State Signatures and is very involved in the community.
Last year, Schenk brought Ed Hearn to St. Louis to speak to Catholic Youth Groups, which consists of a couple hundred kids who meet the last Thursday of the month for prayers and inspirational speakers.
Hearn was the backup catcher for the 1986 World Champion New York Mets. He was later traded to the Kansas City Royals. Hearn was diagnosed with a serious kidney disease and has battled it since then. He covers his journey in his book Conquering Life's Curves.
Schenk has worked with a lot of players, but he calls Hearn his favorite. Schenk stated, "He's extremely easy and flexible and a very understanding guy."
That is always great to hear. Hearn must be an extraordinary guy to be that upbeat and easy-going after all of his problems.
I always liked Hearn. His 1988 Topps card remains one of my all-time favorites. Plus, how can I not like a catcher (especially a backup catcher) who wore glasses? The guy is practically my role model.
I'd like to thank John for sharing his story and picture. I'd also encourage anyone to checkout Show-Me-State Signatures. John is having Lou Brock and Ray Lankford for private signings in September.
John Schenk and Ed Hearn in St. Louis, MO-June 2009.

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