All Choked Up with Hacksaw Jim Duggan

People ask me why I would meet some celebrity multiple times.  Once you meet them, what else is there to do?

I have met many celebrities multiple times, because I like them.  If the celeb was a jerk, I might try once more, but that would be about it.  When the celebs are nice and I like them, I am more likely to revisit them at future conventions.

Such is the case with Hacksaw Jim Duggan.  We have met him several times and it is always fun.  Hacksaw, like a lot of celebs, recognizes us and seems to give us a litle extra when we see him.

Sometimes these multiple visits allow the celeb to become comfortable with you.  You build a bit of a relationship.  I am not saying I am "friends" with the celebs.  I know the lines.  Still, I think I am pretty friendly with many of them.

With trust comes perks.  Duggan gave us an interview last year because he likes us.  That interview can be found at On the Beat with Hacksaw Jim Duggan.

I did write that Hacksaw likes us.  You might not get that at first glance at the picture below.  Hacksaw looks to be squeezing the life out of me.  Wow, he has some big hands.

Hacksaw actually wanted to have a choking chain of him choking me and Matt choking him.  I don't think Matt could get his hands around Hacksaw's thick neck.  I can only imagine how big he was when he played college football.  He is a big, thick dude (and probably without the use of enhancers).

Hacksaw gave us that little extra at C2E2 this year as usual.  This is why I keep going to see him.  I don't know where he will pop up next, but if it is near me, you know I will be there.

Hacksaw Jim Duggan, Matt Parker and me in Chicago, IL-April 2014.

Friendly Encounters: Sugar Dunkerton and Trina Michaels

This is a weekly series featuring my friends meeting celebrities.

Sugar Dunkerton is one of the most entertaining wrestlers on the indy scene.  Sug has been a valuable member of the Resistance Pro roster as a singles wrestler and as part of the tag team Lock Up.
You can look at Sug's pants (if they don't hurt your eyes), his hair or his bright smile.  The man draws you into his circle.  He has charisma and flair.
Obviously Sug also has a way with the ladies.  He met Trina Michaels at a few indy wrestling shows in the Atlanta area.
I don't know if they ever worked together, but I bet they would make an interesting pair.  The only problem might be if she is jealous of his hair or clothes.  Gotta love Special D!

Trina Michaels and Sugar Dunkerton in Atlanta, GA-April 2011.

Bear Down Sunday: Game 4 Green Bay Packers

The Chicago Bears are 2-1 and hosting the Green Bay Packers, who are 1-2.  Somehow the oddsmakers have the Bears as one point underdogs.  Of course, betting lines are skewed a bit because people often bet with the Bears more than other teams.  In any case, the Bears are not really the underdogs in this game.

On the other hand, it would be odd to see the Bears as favorites.  The Bears-Packers rivalry is legendary.  Unfortunately, in the last 25 years or so, the Packers have gotten the best of it big time.

In honor of this rivalry, I am featuring AliSn Chains, one of my favorite derby athletes from Windy City Rollers.  AliSin is as tough as she is beautiful and she is super nice.

AliSin is a big fan of the Packers and she does not apologize for it.  I applaud her passion.  Being a Packers fan in Chicago cannot be easy, but AliSin can take the heat.

As part of WCR, AliSin practices a couple nights a week and continually works at her craft.  This isn't the roller derby of years ago.  This is a legitimate sport and these women are tough, talented and athletic.  I have often said that I did not know what to expect on my first night of WCR action years ago, but I know I saw some great action and was pleasantly surprised.  I have been encouraging others to check out the WCR ever since.  

This game is for AliSin, although I still will be cheering for the Bears.  I just hope if she sees this, she doesn't give me an elbow smash.

AliSin Chains and me in Chicago, IL-September 2014.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #189 Bernie Mac & Joe Mantegna

This is a regular series which attempts to combine my lifelong passion for baseball cards with my semi-professional interest in celebrities.  I am in Milwaukee for the Cubs and Brewers series.

The late comedian Bernie Mac was born on the south side of Chicago.  Despite his Chicago ties, his Celebrity Jersey Card shows him with the Milwaukee Brewers.  This is a rare CJC in that it is an actual "action" shot.  Okay, so it really is a staged "action" shot, but it looks cool.  It comes from his movie "Mr. 3000."

Actor Joe Mantegna is also a Chicagoan and he always stays true to his roots.  He attends many Cubs games as just a fan.  He also has sung during the 7th inning stretch and thrown out a few first pitches, one of which landed him on a Celebrity Jersey Card.  I do subtract points for tucking in his jersey.

Windy City Rolling With Jackie Daniels

Last week, JohngysBeat.com attended the Black and Blue Gala, a fundraiser for the Windy City Rollers.  It was a blast!

We have attended several nights of action with the Windy City Rollers, but this was very different.  The women of WCR were not wearing their usual derby gear and helmets.  Instead, they were dressed elegantly and stylishly.  Because I usually see them wearing helmets, I didn't recognize many.  I admit I felt a bit silly not knowing them at first, but as the evening went on, I did start to figure out several of the ladies.  Of course, some of them helped me a bit by jogging my memory.

I interviewed Jackie Daniels of the Fury a couple times, yet I still didn't realize who she was at first.  With a little prompting, I did realize who she was.

Jackie has been with the Fury since 2010.  She is one of the toughest, most talented and most spirited members of the WCR.  

All of my interviews with the ladies of the WCR can be found at the JohngysBeat.com Windy City Rollers playlist on YouTube.  After watching the interviews, you can learn more about them at WindyCityRollers.com.  Best of all, you really should check out a night of derby action!

Jackie Daniels and me in Chicago, IL-September 2014.

On the Beat at Resistance Pro's "Draw the Line"

The last Resistance Pro show was dedicated to United States veterans and they packed the house.  It was the usual great RPro event, plus the added bobus of giving back to the veterans for their service.

Speaking of the veterans, we got an interview with C Red, a veteran of the service.  He spoke on what this show means to him and the others.

We also spoke to Mickie Knuckles.  Knuckles left me with a unique and much-appreciated gift.

While Special Correspondent JayHawk Evans was interviewing Head Ref Robert King, they were interrupted by Robert's brother Justin.  They also were interrupted by "The Ego" Robert Anthony and Knuckles.  Lastly, all heck broke loose and the interview had to be continued in another room.

Finally, we talked to Warden Myers.  This interview was also interrupted.  Rival Manager C Red injected a little soul into the segment.

The next show is Friday night.  "Practice What You Prewch" promises to be another awesome night of entertainment.

Cards That Never Were: 1975 St. Louis Cardinals Catchers

The 1975 Topps baseball card set was the first set I ever collected to completion.  For this reason and many others, I will always have a special place in my heart for this set.  Still, I think Topps had some omissions (some glaring, some just in my warped mind).  In either case, I am setting out to slowly fill in those gaps.

The 1974 St. Louis Cardinals used four catchers and found it fitting to make cards for two of them.  One of my all-time favorites Ted Simmons was their regular catcher, starting 139 games (plus an additional 11 at 1st base).  Simba should be in the Baseball Hall of Fame, but that is another issue.  Tim McCarver started 16, with an additional 4 at 1st base.

Marc Hill started 6 games in 19784, after starting one in 1973.  Hill went on to have a lengthy career, including holding the White Sox single season record with Carlton Fisk for most home runs by a catching duo (but that, too, is another issue).  If not for consecutive 100+ start seasons in 1977-1978, Hill would be a lock for the Backup Catcher Hall of Fame.

Hill actually appears on a 1975 Topps card, as part of a "1975 Rookie Catchers-Outfielders" card.  Unfortunately for Hill, he shares that card with HOFer Gary Carter (among others).  That makes it harder and more expensive for Hill to get his own card.  Topps did a decent job of airbrushing him into a Giants uniform after the October trade.  In summary, the card I created might not be necessary, but I like seeing players shown with every team during their career.

The fourth catcher for the 1975 Cards was Dick Billings.  You might recall that Billings had a Washington-Texas connection to Rick Stelmaszek, another old favorite.  Billings appeared at catcher in one game in 1974 and also batted in one game in 1975.

Was that one game deserving of a card in the 1975 set?  Well, he is a catcher and he was never pictured with the Cardinals otherwise.  Therefore, I deem him 1975 card worthy.

I am guessing that these pictures were taken in September of 1975 at Wrigley Field.  Ironically, Stelmaszek would have been with the Cubs at this time.

Evil David Letterman and Jay Leno?

Mike Preston is a comedian and the host of PsychoBabbleTV, an offbeat cable show.  Mike invited Johngy's Beat to the set of PsychobabbleTV and after a couple of scheduling snafus, Jack and I finally made it there.

Aside from PsychoBabbleTV, Preston and his crew do a lot of the same type of interviews as you see on JohngysBeat.com.  In reality, I would love to see Johngy's Beat become as awesome as Preston's stuff.  They get much better access and they do a lot with it.  They even spent a whole day with Lita Ford.  (I was just happy with my short interview with the legendary rocker).

We got there early and I was shocked to hear a very familiar voice.  It was the voice of David Letterman.  Well, actually, it was a close facsimile of Letterman's voice as done by Evil David Letterman.

Evil Dave has been a recurring caller/guest on Howard Stern's radio program.  I had no idea he was also a regular contributor to PsychoBabbleTV.

For the next two hours or so, we were treated to the filming of two episodes of PsychoBabbleTV.  The very funny Marge Tackes was co-host, while Preston assumed hosting duties from his non-traditional talk show desk.  Evil Dave, Ozzy and several more entertaining people joined the fun at various points.

I want to thank Preston for welcoming us to the set and for the night of fun.  I want to encourage everyone to check out PsychoBabbleTV.com.

Evil Dave and me in Mount Prospect, IL-September 2014.

Friendly Encounters: Tawny Kitaen and Terence Muncy

This is a regular series about my friends who have met celebrities.

Artist and film-maker Terence Muncy is a bit too young to have remembered Tawny Kitaen throughout her entire career, but I am sure he is familiar with her work.  Who doesn't remember her for he roles in many great metal music videos.  Tawny is quite memorable.
At the Days of the Dead in Indy, Muncy got to meet the still-lovely Kitaen, who was one of the most popular celebrity guests at the show.  It is always fun for me to see celebrities like Muncy meeting other celebrities.  I have to applaud Muncy for his choice here, too.  Kitaen looked great and more importantly, she was very cool to all of the fans meeting her.
Once again, I applaud the folks at Days of the Dead.  They consistently provide great celebrity guests who actually want to be there and are not just collecting a pay check.  The difference makes it a much more pleasurable experience for the attendee.

Tawny Kitaen and Terence Muncy in Indianapolis, IN-June 2014.

Bear Down Sunday (Coming Monday): Game 3 New York Jets

This post could have also been titled "Cards That Never Were."  Yesterday, in honor of tomorrow's Bears game, I showed my card creations for Al Woodall, former Jets backup quarterback.  Today, I am featuring the man ahead of him on the depth chart.
Broadway Joe Namath starred for the Jets from 1965-1976, before finishing his career with the Los Angeles Rams.  Namath had some issues with Topps using his likeness and therefore collectors were deprived of his cards for the last few years of his Hall of Fame career.  Steve at TheCowboysGuide.com has solved that problem by creating the missing Namath cards.
Steve's site, as the name would indicate, is very much dedicated to the Cowboys.  It isn;t exclusively Cowboys though, as he has created a bunch of non-Cowboys cards, such as the Namath ones below.
I stumbled upon Steve's site when I was looking for images for me to use to create Cowboys cards that I deemed were overlooked.  I first saw Steve's version of a 1975 Danny White card.  Topps first included White in their 1977 set.  A few hours later (no joke, I was on his site for hours), I saw so many cards that Steve created that I had wanted to make.  I no longer needed to do them, because his were masterful.  I'll be highlighting those Cowboys creations in the future.
Back to Namath, I love his five creations, especially the 1978 Rams card.  To be honest, each of his works of art is cool and really fits the card feel of that year.  I would have loved to have these cards as a young collector, instead of the retread Al Woodall in 1976.  At least now, I can see them and be sent back in time for a few minutes.
The other great thing about Steve's masterpieces is that he sells them.  You can actually buy these cards, unlike most of everyone else's virtual creations.  Steve's cards also come with the standard card back including stats etc.  These are all just about perfect.
If you are a card collector or a fan of Cards That Never Were, you really need to check out TheCowboysGuide.com.
The Jets of tomorrow will not have Namath at quarterback.  Geno Smith is their current quarterback and he already has more cards than Namath did (counting variations and multiple companies).  I am hoping Smith does not look like Namath tomorrow.  I am hoping he doesn't even look like Woodall.  I'm hoping for a J.J. Jones-type game.

Cards That Never Were: Al Woodall 1972 & 1973

This is a recurring series where I create cards that were not produced, but should have been (at least in my mind).  I borrowed the concept from many other bloggers.

The Chicago Bears will face the New York Jets on Monday.  Today is a good time to show cards I created for former Jets quarterback Al Woodall, who played from 1969-1974.  Of course, Woodall was not the starter, because of a guy named Joe Namath.  Because of Namath's injuries, Woodall played in 31 games during his career.
Woodall received cards from Topps in 1974, 1975 and 1976.  The 1976 card was a questionable choice, as Woodall last played in 1974 (although they resued the picture from his 1974 card).
Namath had issues with Topps using his likeness and therefore did not have a Topps card after 1973.  In 1975, Namath started 13 games and J.J. Jones started one game for the Jets.  Jones was given a card in the 1976 set and so was Woodall.  Namath's stance created a problem and Topps did the best they could.  Maybe in the pre-internet easy info age, nobody really knew that Woodall was retired.  I can't imagine Topps doing this now.
Anyway, today is about giving Woodall his rightful cards from 1972 and 1973.  I did relax the logo rules from back then.  Logos were not shown and were airbrushed out.  I guess this violates the spirit of the cards for those years, but I like them better this way.  My creations come from my rules.

Lisa Marie Varon and the Squared Circle

Lisa Marie Varon was born in California and only came to Chicago a few years ago, but she certainly seems like a Chicago girl.  Having a great restaurant near DePaul definitely helped entrench her in the community.

Lisa is a real sweetheart.  We have interviewed her a few times and have talked with her many times.  She is simply awesome.

Speaking of awesome, her restaurant, The Square Circle, is one of my favorite places.  I love their pizza.  I am also a big fan of their Coke, which has become a long-standing joke.  Yes, there really is such a thing as great fountain Cokes (and likewise also bad fountain Cokes).

The Squared Circle also offers cheese-stuffed burgers, brick oven pizza, duck fat pizza and many more delicious options.  I plan on eventually working my way through the menu, but I tend to get stuck on their pizza.  It is just that good.

TSC has several televisions for your sporting events watching.  Wrestling is obviously a favorite here.  There is nothing like watching wrestling, new or old, while Lisa chats with you, which she often does.  People talk about comfort food, TSC is a comfort place.

Lisa Marie Varon might be a native Californian, but she is a Chicago girl and truly one of our very own!

Lisa Marie Varon and me in Chicago, IL-April 2014.

Leaving Megalopolis with Jim Calafiore

I have written many times of my interest in Aquaman, the most maligned superhero of all time.  Aside from bringing me years of enjoyment in comic book form, Aquaman has also been the cause of several interviews over the last few years.  At last year's Wizard World, Aquaman lead me to Jim Calafiore.

Califore is a well-known comic book artist.  His works include Marvel Comics Exiles, and DC Comics' Aquaman.  Yes Aquaman.  I met an actual Aquaman artist!

Calafiore graciously gave us a few minutes of his time and I probably tested his patience with my continued Aquaman pandering, but he was great about it.  Of course, Calafiore has also done other excellent work, such as creating the character Nocturne, the daughter of Nightcrawler and the Scarlet Witch.

His latest project (with Gail Simone) is Leaving Megalopolis, an original 80 page graphic novel.  I love the promo line, "When the caped heroes of the world's safest city inexplicably all turn into homicidal lunatics, no one is safe.  The only rational thing to do is get the hell out of town. If only it were that easy..."

Okay, I am hooked.  See, I don't need everything comic-book related to involve Aquaman.  I always enjoy good entertainment and Leaving Megalopolis promises to be just that!

You can check out my interview with this talented artist at On the Beat with Jim Calafiore at Wizard World.

Jim Calafiore and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2013.

Congrats to Mike Hessman

I have written many times about the curse of shunning a JohngysBeat.com interview request.  Mike Hessman did not shun us and earlier this season, he reached a big milestone.
We originally came across Hessman while covering the Astros in Houston.  JohngysBeat.com's Contributor Extraordinaire Matt Parker was early in is interviewing career.  He approached Hessman after Hessman had completed his batting practice and was heading into the dugout.  Matt scored one as Hessman answered his questions.  That interview can be found at On the Beat with Mike Hessman.
That was Hessman's last season in the majors.  Since then, he has played minor league ball for the Astros, Reds and Tigers.  He has over 1600 career minor league hits.  More importantly, in May, he hit his 400th minor league home run, becoming only the sixth player ever to accomplish that.  He also is the all-time leader in home runs at Triple A.
Those are some legendary stats, no matter what league.  Hessman's accomplishments cannot be denied.  I hope he does get another call to the majors, even as a September shot when rosters expand.  That would be a nice reward.
Hessman is 36 years old.  I don't know how much longer he intends on playing.  If he never makes it back to the majors, he will retire with 7 career big league hits and a .127 batting average.  He'll always have the 400+ homers though!

Mike Hessman and Matt Parker in Houston TX-Summer 2010.

Cards That Never Were: Hank Allen 1973 & 1974

This is a recurring series in which I try to rectify sports card omissions, by creating "Cards That Never Were."  I do not claim this idea to be mine, but the creations are.

I don't know when or why I developed a real soft spot for sports relatives.  I just find it fascinating when pro athletes have relatives who also played professionally.

I also have a soft spot for underdogs.  That one is a bit easier to figure, since I never was a star on any team.

When you combined an underdog sports relative, I was immediately hooked.  I would follow the careers of the less-known brother (etc), while the bigger star relative grabbed the headlines (and deservedly so).

Such was the case in the early 70's when I discovered mega-star Dick Allen had a less successful brother named Hank.  Dick had a 15 year career, amassing 1,848 career hits and 351 home runs.  Hank played parts of seven seasons, collecting 212 hits and 6 homers.  They also had another brother, Ron, who briefly played for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1972.

Hank had some baseball cards (3 solo and 1 multi-player).  All of those cards pictured him with the Washington Senators.  He did not appear on a 1971 card (Senators), a 1972 (Brewers) or 1973  and 1974 (White Sox).

Since he had appeared with the Senators, I could not find any pictures of Hank with the Brewers and I grew up a Sox fan, I decided to concentrate on giving him his rightful two Sox cards.

For his 1973 card, I listed his position as 3B, where he played the most in 1972.  For 1974, I gave him the unusual INF-OF designation because his time was pretty split.  He even caught a game, but I wasn't going to include that.

Before I finish, I would like to call out my card-creating bloggers to see if anyone could make a 1972 Hank Allen Brewers card.  Someone out there can do it.  I know how talented you all are.

Friendly Encounters: Jack Keenan and Bridget McDonnell

This is a regular series about my friends who have met celebrities.

Jack Keenan has been a part of JohngysBeat.com for the entire ride on the Chicago Bliss bandwagon.  He proved invaluable with his steady camera work, occasional interview skills and all around logistical assistance.

Bridget McDonnell was one of the first rookie hopefuls we met and interviewed in 2014.  Bridget not only made the team, but made some nice plays on special teams and on the offensive line.  She also has been referred to as "the Voice of the Rookies."  Bridget is always up for an interview and always delivers an interesting one.

We have met Bridget many times, but the best was the recent time on the field in Ontario, CA, after the Bliss won their second straigh Legends Football League title.

Jack and Bridget are both winners and have both made contributions to JohngysBeat.com.  I appreciate them and hope to see more of them here in the future.

Jack Keenan and Bridget McDonnell in Hoffman Estates, IL-June 2014.

Bear Down Sunday: Game 2 San Francisco 49ers

The Chicago Bears lost their first game of the season last week.  Today, they face a tough opponent in the San Francisco 49ers.  While this isn't a "must win" yet, it would be an ugly start to go 0-2.

I would like to use today to highlight Chicago's best football coach, Keith Hac.  All Hac has done is lead the Bliss to consecutive Legends Football League titles.  They are 10-1-1 over the last two years and they are the favorites to dominate again next season.

I always say that I appreciate Hac's candor.  He talks a great game and the team backs it up every time.  He also admits when his team isn't playing well (which isn't often).

I saw Hac and his staff mold several rookie hopefuls into solid players, while motivating the veterans to up their game.  He knows what to do to get the most out of everyone.  The players love him and would run through a wall for him.  

While he does have some of the best players in the LFL, I am sure he has had much to do with that.  It isn't just luck.  He doesn't just get great players.  He helps make great players.  He teaches them and keeps teaching them.

Hac is a winner and he creates winners.  We don't see enough of either of those around Chicago.

Coach Keith Hac and me in Los Angeles, CA-September 2014.

Celebirty Jersey Cards #190 Jimmy Kimmel & Regis Philbin

This is a regular series which attempts to combine my lifelong passion for baseball cards with my semi-professional interest in celebrities.  Today I am featuring the Mets represented by two talk show icons.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, Jimmy Kimmel rose to fame on Win Ben Stein's Money and The Man Show.  Eventually, Kimmel starred in his own show, Jimmy Kimmel Live.  Surrounded by his family, Kimmel seems to be a loyal guy.  This is also evident in his Mets love, as seen on his Celebrity Jersey Card.

Yesteryear's Jimmy Kimmel was Regis Philbin, although he is still very active today.  Philbin was born in the Bronx, NY and he remains true to his NY roots, as seen on this Celebrity Jersey Card.  I find it fitting that Philbin, who gave away so much green on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, is wearing a green Mets jersey.

Wrestling with Noah and Gianna

At last month's Resistance Pro event, my cousins Ernie, his son Ernie and his grandchildren Justin, Noah and Gianna.  Of course, all five donned the Johngy shirt for our front row appearance.

I never get tired of seeing people in the Johngy shirt.  It just makes me laugh.  This took it to another level though.

"Big" Ernie has been married to my first cousin for 40ish years.  Their son Ernie and I have gotten closer over the last couple years.  Our families love each other, but somehow drifted apart a bit.

It has been great getting to know Ernie as an adult and to know his children.  Noah is a bright and articulate young man, while Gianna is an active, rambunctious young girl.  They are awesome kids and I hope to continue to see them grow.

It was so cool for me to look to my right and see these three generations sitting next to me.  Seeing them all supporting me by wearing the Johngy shirt was just super fun for me.

The kids (and adults) enjoyed their night at R Pro.  I believe it was the first wrestling event for the kids.  I know there is no better wrestling company than Resistance Pro for them to witness for the first time.

There is another RPro show tonight.  As always, I encourage everyone to come and check it out.

Noah, Gianna and me in Chicago, IL-March 2014.

On the Beat at Resistance Pro's "The Real Thing"

It was a sweltering night in the Barn in Willowbrook, but that did not prevent the folks at Resistance Pro Wrestling from putting on another great event.  "The Real Thing" featured an evening full of wrestling, along with several extra cameras, as the long-awaited reality show tapings started to happen.

The AMC film crews were not the only ones doing any video recording.  As usual, JohngysBeat.com grabbed a few stars of RPro for some interviews.

The Slobberknockers were making their return to the ring, after such an emotional debut a couple months ago.  We also got them for a return interview.  Despite the best efforts of a few joker wrestlers, the Slobberknockers held their composure throughout (most) of the interview.

Special Correspondent Jonathan McMahon interviewed Referee Mario Scruggs and I interviewed Referee Drew Thomas.  These were our first interviews with both of these refs.

After months of trying, I finally got to interview Musical Director Sheri Shaw.  Shaw is usually a whirlwind of activity, but we got her right before her day began.

We also spoke to Matt Knicks.  The Marvelous One discussed his recent attitude change and his split from former partner "Big C" Chris Castro.

Lasty, in a short video presentation, we gave Eric St. Vaughn a trophy commemorating his 40,000 YouTube Views for one of our previous interviews.  It was the first interview we have done (and only one so far) to have reached that mighty milestone.

Ken Anderson Joined Al Snow in the Beatdown

As you have previously seen several times, I have been on the receiving end of Al Snow's punches on many occasions.  He even included JohngysBeat.com Contributor Extraordinaire in a double-punch on us last year at Blizzard Brawl.

I am used to Al's punches.  I almost even like them.  Okay, sometimes I literally have asked for them.  Why not?  It's all fun.

At this year's C2E2, Snow kicked it up a notch.  When he saw Matt and me, he suggested a double-double punch.  In other words, he wanted someone else to punch one of us, while he punched the other.  He enlisted the aid of fellow wrestler Ken Anderson (aka Misteeeeerrrr Anderson), who quickly (maybe too quickly) agreed to the lunacy.

Within seconds, Anderson punched Matt, while Al socked me.  The best part is the fun these guys get from the pictures.  Both men had a great laugh at the theatrics.  I know I always get a kick out of it, but to see two wrestling stars join in on the shenanigans and get just as much humor out of it, just cracks me up more.

If you ever get the chance to meet Al, do not pass the chance.  He is one of the funniest, nicest guys out there.  I have met him many times and he is always on his game.  Thanks, too, to Anderson for his part in the fun.

Al Snow, me, Matt Parker and Ken Anderson in Chicago, IL-April 2014.

Gregg Zaun and the Backup Catcher Hall of Fame?

We have previously discussed the Backup Catcher Hall of Fame and our respect for the many fine catchers who never really made it as everyday catchers, but who nonetheless carved out solid, productive careers helping their teams in an under-appreciated way.  At JohngysBeat.com and the BCHOF, we always strive to shine a positive light on them.
For the first nine years of Gregg Zaun's major league career, he was well on his way to induction into the Backup Catcher Hall of Fame.  He averaged 64 games a year with a solid .250 batting average.  Throw in about 4 home runs and twenty rbi's and you have a can't miss BCHOF'er.
Then came 2004.  He played in 107 games.  He followed that in 2005 with 133 games.  Then 99 in 2006.  At this point, his BCHOF hopes were gone.
Was it worth it?  Were the extra games over those few years worth his BCHOF induction?  Only Zaun truly can answer that, but the BCHOF feels the loss.
Zaun finished his career with a respectable .252 batting average and 88 home runs.  He averaged 77 games a year over his 16 year career with 9 teams.
Zaun's career is not to be diminished.  Lasting for 16 seasons in the major leagues is an accomplishment.  He was a dependable catcher with a little pop.  I have certainly seen a lot worse in Chicago in my lifetime.  I'd gladly take a Gregg Zaun even now.
I am just lamenting the BCHOF's loss of such a promising prospect.  Rarely does a player put up nine solid seasons of BCHOF-esque numbers only to blow it all.  It's just a shame.
On the other hand, Zaun still plays a big role in the BCHOF.  He also proves just how valuable an excellent backup catcher really is.  Zaun was certainly capable of starting (or stepping in when needed).  If his stats were put into a 162 game average, they would show 12 home runs, 57 rbi's and a .252 average.  Those stats would have put Zaun in the top ten catchers last season.
Cuzz Gekas and I met Zaun on our annual baseball trip in 2012.  We fought back the urge to discuss this with him.  If we had more time, maybe if we had a beer with him, we would have explained this to him.  Instead, we talked briefly about his post-playing career and the Blue Jays.  He was a very nice guy and he would have made a great BCHOF'er.
It's just a shame.
JohngysBeat.com supports Zaun in his post-playing career efforts.  Zaun started the Gregg Zaun Foundation to help Canadian families in need.  He is very active with the charity and it does great work.  Please check it out at GZFoundation.com.

Greg Zaun, Cuzz Gekas and me in Toronto, Canada-Summer 2012.

Friendly Encounters: Sara Richard and Kristian Nairn

This is a regular series about my friends meeting celebrities.

I swear, every time I see Sara Richard on FB, she is doing something cool and I am not just talking about her beautiful artwork.  Between her Cosplay, her gliding, her singing and all else, she never fails to entertain.
Her primary form of entertainment is art, her given profession.  Her work and info can be found on SaraRichard.com.  Of course, you can also look for her interviews on my YouTube channel.  Sara is one of my favorite subjects.
Recently Sara met Kristian Nairn, best known for his role of Hodor on Game of Thrones.  You can tell how excited she was just by looking at her.  Am I the only person who doesn't watch that show (no offense Mr. Nairn or Sara).
I am glad Sara got to meet Nairn.  It's always cool to see people meet their favorite celebs.  Plus, this gives me one more opportunity to promote her fantastic artwork.  She is quite gifted.
I really hope you check out her creations.  Oh and if you ever meet her, ask he about her interest in dinosaurs.  See, I told you...she is always involved in something cool.

Kristian Nairn and Sara Richard in Wilmington, MA-April 2014.

Bear Down Sunday: Game 1-Buffalo Bills

This blog can be subtitled "Cards That Never Were."  For the Chicago Bears season opener against the Buffalo Bills, I am featuring Tony Furjanic, former NFL player with the Bills and Miami Dolphins.

The Bears have their best offense in my lifetime.  Unfortunately, their defense is a bit questionable.  Still, in this NFL, this should be enough to make them very competitive.

Buffalo seems to be the opposite.  In any case, the Bears should defeat the Bills without too much of a struggle.  This is a decent game to start the season positively for the Bears.

As is well-documented here, I went to Mt. Carmel High School with Furjanic.  He was a star at MC, and Notre Dame before starting his NFL career in 1986.  Furjanic played two seasons in Buffalo and one in Miami before retiring.  He played in 28 games over the three seasons.

In Furjanic's era, Topps limited their football card production to about 15 players per team.  That means not even every starter got a card.  As much as I wanted to see Furjanic make the cut, it just wasn't going to happen.

If Topps didn't make one, at least I now have the ability to make a virtual card for my old high school mate.  I gave Furjanic a card from the 1987 set, which would have been after his rookie season.  

Currently Furjanic works and lives in the south suburbs of Chicago.  He is very successful and is as nice as ever.  Furjanic is truly one of the good guys.  Despite being a Bills alum, I still think Furjanic will be cheering for the Bears!

Celebrity Jersey Cards #188 The Bella Twins

This is a regular series which attempts to combine my lifelong passion for baseball cards with my semi-professional interest in celebrities.  Today I am featuring celebrities representing last year's Super Bowl participants.

Nikki Bella (Stephanie Nicole Garcia-Colace) was born 16 minutes earlier than her twin.  After starting her career in modeling and acting, Nikki turned to wrestling.  With her twin, against her twin and aside from he twin, Nikki has been a part of the WWE landscape since 2007.  The Arizona native has held the WWE Diva's Championship once and is currently dating WWE superstar John Cena.  Nikki gets my vote for donning the Denver Broncos Peyton Manning jersey for her Celebrity Jersey Card.

Brianna Monique Danielson (née Garcia-Colace) is the younger Bella twin.  Her career path is similar to sister Nikki's, including her love life, as Brie is married to WWE superstar Bryan Danielson (aka Danial Bryan).  Brie also held the WWE Diva's championship once.  Much like their current storyline, Brie directly opposes Nikki by wearing a Seattle Seahawks Russel Wilson jersey for her Celebrity Jersey Card.

The Chicago Bliss Ring Collection

The Legends Football League championship game is tomorrow in Ontario, CA.  JohngysBeat.com will be there in person covering the game, tweeting results and getting interviews.  We plan on watching the Chicago Bliss repeat as champs!

At a practice this season, Coach John Witte showed me the Bliss championship ring.  Below it is pictured in all of its glory.

It is a hefty piece of jewelry, but the significance is far heavier than the actual weight.  The team, from top to bottom, has busted butt for the better part of a year top reach this point again.  I have had an up close view of all of the blood, sweat and tears.  I know it sounds cliche, but it is reality.

I have seen what you won't see on "reality" shows.  I have seen long practices, repetitive drills, intense sessions.  I have seen laughing and crying and everything in between.

I applaud Coach Keith Hac, his staff and every member of the roster.  These people are as tough as they come.

Tomorrow night, it all comes down to one more game.  The Chicago Bliss face the Atlanta Steam.  Good luck to the Bliss.  Good luck to my friends!  I am proud to have been on this journey and I want to see the predictions, expectations and dreams come to fruition!

Get another win.  Get another ring!

On the Beat with Jason David Frank at Wizard World 2014

Prior to this year's Wizard World in Chicago, I had the pleasure of conducting an interview with Jason David Frank at 5 Roses Pub in Rosemont.  This type of media opportunity is rare, but this is how Wizard World operates.  They make sure that the press and other attendees have great opportunities all throughout the convention.

The question I most wanted to ask Jason was about him developing his own martial arts practice.  How does one do such a thing?  Clearly this man is a master.

We also talked about the Power Rangers, his acting, future projects and more.  He even mentioned indoor sky-diving, something I really have wanted to try.

Jason is an interest guy.  Matt wanted to interview him at a previous con, but we didn't have the chance.  I am so glad to have done it this time.

Happy Birthday Matt

Happy birthday to JohngysBeat.com's Contributor Extraordinaire Matt Parker.

Matt has been less visible on the JohngysBeat.com scene of late due to many exciting things in his life.  He got his Master's Degree, he landed a job and he got engaged.  That is a lot of action for anyone.

I couldn't be happier for Big Money.  He is a great young man with a bright future on every front.  I wish him a lifetime of happiness.  I hope he knows I will always have his back and ill always be here for him.  Aside from his contributions on the Beat, he will always be welcome in my universe.

Have a great day, Big Money.  Love ya, pal!

Matt Parker and me in Chicago, IL-March 2014.

On the Beat with Lou Ferrigno at Wizard World 2014

I have had the pleasure of covering Wizard World for several years.  I have done so on my own, as an official video blogger and as a member of the credentialized press.  Previous to that, I went as a fan.

This year, the experience was taken to another level, when I was part of the media group at a pre-event gathering before the actual convention in Chicago.

The event featured two celebrity Guests of Honor, Lou Ferrigno and Jason David Frank.  I got to interview each man separately.  What a blast this was.

The question I really wanted to ask Ferrigno was how he felt about the new technology making the superheros (including the Hulk) literally larger than life.  Back when he was on The Incredible Hulk, he really was the Hulk.  That was the great part.  Aside from the green makeup, he didn't need any enhancements.

His answer was awesome.  In the end he will be the only one who can ever sign autographs!  How perfect and how fitting for a comic con.

I also asked Ferrigno about The King of Queens, his motivations, his acting and more.  It was a bit noisy at the event, but we did our best and would never pass on a chance to intervuiew Ferrigno.

Friendly Encounters: Sherry Garrity and Sugar Dunkerton

This is a weekly series about friends who have met celebrities.

This Friendly Encounter represents the Chicago Bliss and Resistance Pro, two of my favorite organizations.   I am proud to say I had a little something in putting these two groups together.
Pictured there is Sherry Garrity, the media liaison with the Bliss.  Sherry's duties and importance go way beyond that title though.  Sherry has made my press credentialization very easy this season.  It has been a pleasure working with her.
Sug D, Sugar Dunkerton, Special D, Dark Chocolate or whatever he is calling himself these days is one of the most entertaining wrestlers at RPro.  He is always good for a laugh (especially in those unique pants), but he is also deadly serious in the ring.  Sug has a bright future.  He will hold RPro gold of some sort at some point.
The two met at an RPro event, one of several where the Bliss made their presence felt.  The Bliss-RPro partnership has produced many fun moments.  The picture below is a good representation of those moments.

Sugar Dunkerton and Sherry Garrity in Willowbrook, IL-May 2014.