Halloween with Road Warrior Andres (aka Andres the Announcer)

Resistance Pro has been a lot of things to me over the years.  It's been a place to meet friends, watch great wrestling, be generally entertained and so much more.  It's also been a place to occasionally play dress up.

Because I am not a wrestler, you won't see me dressed up in wrestling gear (although Mean Gene Okerlund did wrestle one match).  At RPro though, you don't have to be a wrestler to get in on the act for their Halloween shows.

A couple years ago, I became Rowdy Johngy Piper and Andres the Announcer became Road Warrior Andres.  I don't believe those two legends ever teamed together and I know if they did, they looked nothing like Andres and me.  Still, that did not prevent us from joining the fun.

It was a rowdy time.  Ohhhhh what a rush!

Happy Halloween.

Andres and me in Willowbrook, IL-October 2013.

Wizard World Fan Fest with WWE Diva Eva Marie

Natalie Marie Coyle is better known to wrestling fans as Eva Marie.  She was already a model and an actress, when she signed with the WWE in 2013, thereby also becoming a wrestler (or a diva).

Eva has appeared on 90210, CSI: New York and Entourage, among other shows.  She has also been featured in many magazines, such as Maxim and Muscle and Fitness.  She is also appearing on Total Divas, the reality based tv show featuring WWE divas.

Her striking red hair has lead to her fans being called "The Red Nation."  With all of this on her side, she is certainly a very marketable star.

I have been critical of the WWE divas in the past, but mainly for the way they are used by the WWE.  I don't blame the women.  They are gaining exposure and getting paid fairly well.

Eva Marie has not accomplished a whole lot yet in the ring.  As she is already 30, I don't think her actual wrestling future is very bright.

Actually, she might be better off with less of a wrestling career.  That would allow her to do more outside of wrestling.  She can take her time in the WWE to gain more exposure and then use it to get roles elsewhere.

When I met Eva Marie at Wizard World Fan Fest, she was really sweet.  Many times, during the photo ops with women like Eva Marie, there is a strict "no contact" rule and I understand that.  A few knuckleheads cause these such restrictions.  She had no such rule (although security is there to make sure nobody gets out of line, even the press).

It was a very pleasant experience for everyone there.  Eva Marie gave her fans their special moments.

Eva Marie and me in Rosemont, IL-March 2015.

PsychoBabble's Spooktacular 2015

It was a dark and scary night, when inside the Comcast studio, comedian Mike Preston took his seat behind the desk and attempted to do his PsychoBabble show, only to be interrupted by several odd ghouls.  Okay, actually, it was a sunny and clear night, but the rest is accurate.  I was just trying to set a Halloween mood.

We usually attend PsychoBabble tapings and sometimes even participate in the madness.  For this particular episode, Mike put out a call for zombies.  Never one to shy away from a camera, I jumped at the chance.

While Mike muddled through his usual banter with Justine Hartel, video clips, a visit from Dr. Burnbaum and more, Zombie Johngy and other zombies meandered around the set.  As usual, I had a great time.  I even grew attached to the ALF doll.  (Help me, Willy).

You can see the full episode at Spooktacular 2015 on Vimeo.  Also, be sure to check out PsychoBabbleTV.com for all updates and info.

The PsychoBabble gang in Mount Prospect, IL-October 2015.

On the Beat with Michael Leighton of the Rockford IceHogs-10/24/15

Continuing our coverage of the Rockford IceHogs, today we feature goalie Michael Leighton, a real hockey veteran.  Leighton is in his 18th season of pro hockey.
Leighton was originally drafted by the Chicago Balckhawks and made his NHL debut with them in the 2002-03 season.  He played in eight games that season and 41 the next (splitting time with the Norfolk Admirals.  He spent all of 2004-05 in Norfolk.
In 2006-07, Leighten logged in one game for the Nashville Predators and four with the Philadelphia Flyers.  He resurfaced again in 2007-08 with the Carolina Hurricanes and played there for 2.5 seasons, before Philly reacquired him via waivers.  He played one game in 2010-11 and one in 2012-13 with the Flyers.  He joined the Rockford IceHogs last season.
Leighton is a good fit for the IceHogs.  He gives the parent club Blackhawks extra insurance, while also serving as a pseudo-coach for the young goalies in Rockford.  Of course, he also wants his chance to shine, whether it is a Calder Cup championship in Rockford or a Stanley Cup title in Chicago.
Leighton had a very good night during the 4-3 win.  He stopped 33 of 36 shots, including many tough saves.
We had the pleasure of taking part n the post-game media session.  That interview is below (courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs).  A full recap on the victory can be found at IceHogs.com.  You can also read my story for Tru School Sports at Rockford IceHogs Move to 4-3.

Video courtesy of IceHogs TV IceHogs.com

On the Beat with Coach Ted Dent of the Rockford IceHogs-10/24/15

Last Friday, Jason Fleigel and I made the short trip to Rockford to kickoff the Johngy's Beat coverage of the Rockford IceHogs for this season.  I was really looking forward to getting back into the hockey mode.

The IceHogs are the American Hockey League affiliate of the Chicago Blackhawks.  As I have repeatedly written, the IceHogs of today are the Blackhawks of tomorrow.  I like to say I am doing advance scouting for the Hawks and I lay claim to a small part of their Stanley Cup championships.

Seriously, I love going to see the IceHogs.  Over the last few years, I have attended more IceHogs games than any other Chicago pro team.

Our night started early at the BMHO Harris Bank Center with some lively music on the concourse.  Greeted by Hammy (the IceHogs mascot) and dazzled with appetizers and a "Happy Hour," the usual upbeat fans got a bit more amped.  This was such a cool experience.  I have never seen anything like it at a hockey game.

We reconnected with Mike Peck and Nate Haeni, our media contacts.  We talked about the growth of the IceHogs and some exciting things planned for this season.

From our seats in the auxiliary press box, we saw the IceHogs jump to an early 2-0 lead, only to see the Wolves eventually claw their way back.  The tied game continued through the new 3-on-3 5 minute overtime period and into the 3 man shootout.  The IceHogs scored twice in the shootout to win the game.

A full recap on the victory can be found at IceHogs.com.  You can also read my story for Tru School Sports at Rockford IceHogs Move to 4-3.

After the game, we took part in the post game media session.  Coach Ted Dent talked about the win and answered questions about his reconfigured lines, the penalties, the new overtime format and more.  Below is video from that interview courtesy of the IceHogs.  JohngysBeat.com's Jason Fleigel can be heard asking about the overtime, about halfway through the video.

We are so excited to be back on the IceHogs beat.  We look forward to another exciting, successful, fun season.  We will be providing coverage here, at Tru School Sports, the Patch and Global Traveler.  We hope you enjoy our reporting and even more importantly, we hope you come out to some games!

For more info on the IceHogs, including their schedule, promotional dates and ticket info, go to IceHogs.com.  

Video courtesy of IceHogs TV IceHogs.com

Friendly Encounters: Stoney McGee, Eric St. Vaughn and Frankenstein

This is a weekly series which features friends who have met celebrities.

What better way to start off Halloween week than with Stoney McGee!  Seriously, I meant Frankenstein.  Still, it is always good to see Stoney and Tommy Else, too.
Unfortunately, the picture below saddens me a bit.  For one thing, I wasn't there.  I missed a Resistance Pro event.  This one was in Minneapolis and featured a zombie pub crawl.  I really wanted to go.
I was a little busy the next day though.  I had that Marathon thing to do.  There was no way I could have driven back from Minny and done the Marathon.  I had to miss the RPro fun.
Stoney and Tommy did not miss the fun though.  This is just one of the many cool pictures from that event.  Some pictures will never find their way to social media though.
Another thing sad about this picture is that it represents the beginning of the end of a great time in my life.  It was during the Minny trip that AMC announced they were dropping all reality shows, including the RPro reality show.  Shortly after this, things started to unravel and many people left RPro.  Stoney was one of the last ones to leave and his departure probably shocked me the most.
I don't want to get into the debate again.  That's been done to death.  I just want to say that I miss Stoney and the others.  I miss the fun we all had.  It's a shame.
RPro has rebounded and I have seen some of the departed since then, but the magic of that time will never be recaptured.  That is just part of life.  At least when it was all happening, I made sure to soak in the fun and the experience.

Stoney McGee, Frankenstein and Tommy Else in Minneapolis, MN-October 2014.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #244 Joel Murray & Charles Barkley

This is a regular series featuring celebrities wearing sports jerseys created into virtual trading cards.  With no Chicago Bears game today, it is the perfect time to honor the Chicago Cubs, who did far better than expected this season.

One of the legendary Chicago Murray brothers, Joel gets his turn on a Celebrity Jersey Card.  I had the pleasure of interviewing Joel a couple years back and that can be found at On the Beat with Joel Murray  Among other roles, Joel was the voice of Chester Cheetah from the Cheetos commercials.

Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley switches sports for his first Celebrity Jersey Card appearance.  The "round mound of rebound" looks like he could have been a slugging first baseman-right outfielder back in his days.  I'm thinking a taller version of Matt Stairs..

DJ Corchin at Wizard World 2015

DJ Corchin is a children's author and illustrator.  His colorful books are very eye-catching at his booth at comic cons.

Corchin is a Chicago area native and a fellow DePaul grad.  His career started in music, but along the way he discovered a passion for children's picture books.  This lead him to create You Got a Boogie, his first book.

You Got a Boogie deals with the concept of telling the truth to someone because you care about them.  Through very funny and a tad bit gross (but grossly funny) artwork and text, lessons are taught and children (and parents) are entertained.

Corchin followed that first book with 12 more children's illustrated books.  Among those is the I Feel series.  These books delve into feelings a child might have, what they mean and how they are all perfectly okay and normal.  Once again, fantastically fun artwork accompanies fun writing to present wonderful lessons.

I often say that life is hard and it starts at a young age.  I don't mean that in a negative way, but rather a realistic way.  Corchin attempts to ease some of the hardships of being a child by explaining and exploring things that might cause issues for children.  He succeeds at creating life's lessons for the children, but also for adults to share.  Everyone is a winner with these books.

I am sure his colorful books will jump out at you at a comic con and when they do, stop by his booth for some fun.  You should also check out DJCorchin.com for more info and updates.

DJ Corchin and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2015.

Ytasha L. Womack at C2E2 2015

Ytasha Womack is the author of Afrofuturism: The World of Black Sci Fi and Fantasy.  The book is "an educational and entertaining guide to sci-fi and fantasy within African American culture."  The book covers everything from hip hop to avante-garde art to graphic novels.  It introduces a lot of African American elements and people from the various genres and fields.

Womack was at C2E2 to promote Afrofuturism and her other great work, too.   Of course, I was immediately intrigued by her booth.

Somewhere on her site or at her booth, I read that her goal was to enlight and entertain.  The key is that the enlightenment comes so naturally.  As i turned the pages, as I saw new videos, as I looked deeper at her site, I kept being drawn in further, but I kept learning more.  My goal at comic cons is to be entertained, which Womack certainly did for me.  When I am informed of new or cool stuff in such a fun way, I am very impressed.  Womack is one I will certainly continue to follow.

For more info on Womack, check out IAfrofuturism.com and follow IAfrofuturism on twitter and IAfrofuturism on Facebook..  You will get all of her updates and news at those places.    

Ytasha Womack and me in Chicago, IL-April 2015.

Brian Hershey at Days of the Dead Indy 2015

I love discovering new authors.  The Days of the Dead conventions are perfect for avid readers to find new authors.  At the June Days con, I met author Brian Hershey.

Hershey is the author of two books and a few short stories.  Accidental Impact is about a friendship which is tested by a terrible accident and the after effects.  Forgotten Sin is the first book in the Avenging Fate Trilogy.  In Forgotten Sin, Dr. Mya Bishop turns to Specialist Marcus Holland to escape her curse and all that goes with it.  Mysteries are revealed, emotions uncovered and new challenges arise.

Hershey's books grabbed my interest.  They are now on my bookshelf to be read in the near future.  Brian was a personable guy, eager to discuss his books with fans, new and old.

Days of the Dead is a great place for authors like Hershey to be in front of new eyes.  I can't begin to count the number of authors I discovered at Days.  Hershey is the latest and I am excited about digging into his books.

For more info on Hershey, check out Reader2Writer.com and the Brian Hershey Facebook page.  You can also follow Hershey on twitter.

Brian Hershey and me in Indianapolis, IN-June 2015.

Jeff Balke at Wizard World Chicago 2015

At Wizard World Chicago 2015, I met comic artist Jeff Balke.  Aside from doing illustrations for comics and starting his own comics, Balke has created something unique with his "sketch coloring."

Basically, Balke will take anything black and white and color it up using special markers.  This creates a one-of-a-kind piece.  No two sketch colorings will ever be the same.  Balke said it was born out of his desire to give something special to the fans.

In reality, he has been giving special things to fans for years now.  He credits meeting Stan Lee at Wizard World when he was in high school for inspiring his career path.  Since then, he has been drawing and/or coloring comics and sketches to the delight of his fans.

Check out Balke's work on JBalkesArt.com.  If he is appearing at a comic con near you, don't miss out on stopping at his booth.  It is full of beautiful art.  Balke is very approachable and fan-friendly, too!

Jeff Balke and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2015.

Johngy Is "Pretty. Strong.?"

The Chicago Bliss is getting major national exposure via Pretty.  Strong., the docu-series airing on the Oxygen Network.  On Episode two, I got a bit of exposure, too.
I have given my thoughts on Episode Two in my piece for Tru School Sports at Pretty.  Strong. Episode Two Recap and Review.  Basically, in fairness to all involved, I have switched my perspective on the show.  I cannot judge it as a 50 year old football fan, who happens to like beautiful, athletic women.  They are not aiming the show at me and therefore, I have to judge Pretty.  Strong. by different standards.
One of my criticisms either way though is that all of the Bliss players are not really included in the show.  I understand they cannot focus on 20 different players.  Featuring eight is fine, but not at the exclusion of the others.
Where is Dominique "DC" Collins?  She has been on the team for three years, including two championship seasons.
Where is Kim Perez?  Where are the rookies?  The team is twenty-strong.
If they want to feature the Bliss Eight outside of football, why not at least include the others on the field.  Through two episodes, I don't think any others have been named or have spoken.  Some have been shown in quick passing, but only as the backdrop during game day action.
Oddly, while watching Episode Two, I was surprised to see myself.  The camera started on Head Coach Keith Hac, Coach Myron Knox, Team Photog Norm Cook, Johngy's Beat photog Jack Keenan and me on the sidelines at a practice.  One of the players came up and started talking to Hac.  Suddenly they were behind me and I grabbed center screen.
My screen time lasted about 5 seconds, which is five more seconds than I thought I would ever get.  They did blur my logo, even though it was unnecessary, since I own the rights.  I won't complain about that though.
My friends and I got a kick out of this, which goes right back to my point.  If I enjoyed seeing myself on Pretty.  Strong. and I only cover the team, I am quite sure the other players would love to be seen on the show as well.
It's not just for them individually, however.  It's about the team.
I am hoping this changes in future episodes.  I'll keep watching.  Maybe I'll even see myself again.

Me in Crown Point, IN-May 2015.

Friendly Encounters: The Michael Schenker Group and Jack Keenan

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

When Jack Keenan ha a Friendly Encounter, he does it in a big way.  It's not often a Friendly Encounter features a group of celebrities.  Jack got a group alright, the Michael Schenker Group.
Schenker is one of the world's bests guitarists.  He got some fame in the Scorpions, then joined UFO.  Since leaving UFO for the first time, Schenker has played with various incarnations of the Michael Schenker Group.  He has also occasionally rejoined UFO.
Jack saw Schenker and his band at a show in Chicago earlier this year.  A backstage pass put him right in the thick of things.  Jack says this photo happened almost by accident.  Although he had been mingling with them all evening, at one point, they kind of found themselves assembled as such and an alert photog captured the moment.  No need to pose when this type of situation does it for you.
Actually, doesn;t this sort of look like an album cover.  Oh, maybe I will need to explain what an album cover is to the younger folks reading this.

Jack Keenan and the Michael Schenker Group in Chicago, IL-April 2015.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #243 Alan Alda & Velvet Sky

This is a regular series featuring celebrities wearing sports jerseys created into virtual trading cards.  Today, I once again feature the opponent of the Bears.

A native of New York, actor Alan Alda is probably best known for his role as Hawkeye Pierce on tv's M*A*S*H.  His Celebrity Jersey Card comes from his role in Paper Lion, the movie based on George Plimpton's book.  Plimpton has previously appeared on his own Celebrity Jersey Card, also sporting the Detroit Lions uniform.

Our favorite "jersey gal" Velvet Sky is back repping the Detroit Lions this time on her Celebrity Jersey Card.  Velvet is wearing the #81 for Calvin Johnson.  I would like to volunteer to cover Velvet while she runs her routes (or does anything else).  The Lions jersey never looked so good as it does on Velvet.

Sizing Up Kevin Nash

I have seen and written about Kevin Nash many times, but I am always taken a little aback at how big he really is.  "Big Sexy" is really a big dude.

The picture below puts things in a little perspective.  Earlier this year, Resistance Pro wrestler Tommy Else joined Johngy's Beat for C2E2.  Tommy is a big guy.  He's probably about 6'1" and about 190 pounds of muscle.  Next to Big Kev, Tommy doesn't look so big (and I look pretty scrawny).

Kev is certainly not in quite as good shape as he was in his wrestling prime, but I still wouldn't mess with him.  He's one of those guys who exudes strength.  I sincerely believe it would have been pretty easy for him to wrap his hands around our heads and bang them together, if he had chosen.  There wouldn't have been much we could have done to prevent it either.

Fortunately that was not in Kev's plans.  It wouldn't have looked good to the rest of the people waiting to meet him if he injured the first two guys (especially since one was a big guy, too).

Thank you Kev for always being nice at these cons.  Either way though, you know I will always look up to you.

Tommy Else, Kevin Nash and me in Chicago, IL-April 2015.

Wrestler, Con Staffer and Fan "Hardcore" Heather Owens

I met "Hardcore" Heather Owens at Resistance Pro wrestling.  I might have previously seen her at Days of the Dead though.  On second thought, even if I did "see" her at Days, she was probably a blur.  Heather is one of the several fantastic people who help make Days an awesome con.

I have gotten an interesting look at Heather.  First, I have seen her put on entertaining wrestling matches.  Her "hardcore" nickname is well-earned, although she can put on a technical match, as well.

I have also seen her as a tireless worker at the Days events.  I have been involved in enough cons to know just how much work they are.  Fans show up at con time and are ready for a fun time.  The on-site staffers have already been there for hours (or perhaps even days) making sure that the event will run smoothly.  Believe me, few events run as smoothly as Days does.  That is a credit to people like Heather.

I have also seen Heather as a fan.  She works as hard as anyone at these cons, but she also squeezes in time to meet her favorites.  It is fun seeing her actually have fun at these events, instead of non-stop work.  (That is a credit to Adolfo, who treats his staff well).

It might sound cliche, but Heather is just a cool person.  I am looking forward to the upcoming Days of the Dead on November 20-22 and to seeing Heather.

Heather Owens and me in Indianapolis, IN-June 2015.

Pui Che at C2E2 2015

Pui Che describes himself as a passionate enthusiastic artist.  That is probably a fairly common description of most artists, but in talking to Che, you see his uniqueness.

He is very deep, without being artificial or analytical.  He sees things beyond the surface level.  He observes, focuses and see things others miss.  

I really enjoyed the Pui Che Deviant Art site.  There are a lot of examples of his work and most are accompanied by brief descriptions and thoughts.  It's really fascinating to see the beauty and to learn a bit about what went into it.  My favorite was Demonic Portal, described as "A Demonic Heathen slithering about through dimensions to battle a champion."  It was wondrous and intriguing.  I was a bit mesmerized.

You can go to Pui Che Illustrated Blog to learn more about Che and to get his updates.  There are also a bunch of links to find him elsewhere.

Pui Che and me in Chicago, IL-April 2015.

On the Beat at Wrigley Field for Game 3 of the NLDS

Getting Press Credentials at Wrigley Field during the regular season is difficult at best.  The Cubs are always in demand, even when they are struggling and the Press Box is not exceptionally large.  Getting Press Credentials for any of the playoff games was next to impossible, yet I pulled some strings and got lucky with credentials for Game 3 of the National League Division Series.

With the series tied at one, Game 3 was very important.  It was also the hottest ticket in town and yet, there I was heading into Wrigley.

I joked that the Presbox served Pepsi (which as a staunch Coke guy is off limits), but I wouldn't complain.  Heck, they could have served warm Diet Pepsi and I would not have complained.  (I chose water over Pepsi, but I did not complain).

I was treated to a great game.  The Cubs won 8-4 to take a 2-1 lead in the series with Game 4 last night.

Records seemed to be falling left and right.  The Cubs hit 6 home runs in the game.  The first six batters in the order hit a home run at some point.  Jorge Soler continued his post-season perfection and now stands at 4-4 with 5 walks in 9 plate appearances.

This Cubs team is young, talented, deep and likable.  It is poised for a long-term run of success.  Maybe this is why there does not seem to be the desperation I have seen during other playoff appearances by the Cubs.

It was a thrilling experience.  I appreciate everything about it.  I took my own advice and soaked in every minute.

On a related note, a couple years ago, Johngy's Beat landed an interview with Michael Wacha, the losing pitcher.  Chuck Gekas handled the questioning and Wacha was very gracious in giving his time while signing autographs before the game.  That interview can be found at On the Beat with Michael Wacha.

Me in Chicago, IL-October 2015.

Tony Moran at Days of the Dead Indy 2015

Tony Moran was the unmasked Michael Myers in the original Halloween, a role which reportedly paid $200.  After Halloween, Moran had a few roles on episodic television, before dropping out of the Hollywood scene.  He is also the brother of actress (and Johngy's Beat favorite) Erin Moran.

Moran returned to acting in 2008.  In 2010, he produced and starred in Beg, which also stars his Halloween co-star (and another Johngy's Beat favorite) P.J. Soles.

Despite a relatively short resume, Moran will always have a place at comic and horror cons.  This is exactly why the folks at Days of the Dead had him as part of their lineup in June.  When you appear in a classic like Halloween, you will always be in demand by the fans.  Plus, Michael Myers is such an iconic character.

For his part, Moran was very cool at the convention.  He seemed genuinely happy to be there, as he talked and laughed with his fans.  That's all you really want from any celebrity at these cons.

Tony Moran and me in Indianapolis, IN-June 2015.

Friendly Encounters: Jim Strong, John Witte, Dana Dixon and Ryan Andrews

Friendly Encounters is a weekly series about friends who have met celebrities.

This Friendly Encounter is a hodgepodge of worlds colliding.  The Chicago Bliss, Johngy's Beat, Resistance Pro and a photographer friend combined for a fun night.
The Chicago Bliss "invaded" RPro in the summer of 2014.  That was one of the most fun nights I ever had at RPro.  It was also a bit surreal.  I am happy to have had a hand in putting those two great organizations together.
Assistant Coach Ryan Andrews showed his support by arriving in Johngy gear.  Long-time convention colleague, photographer Jim Strong also wore the Johngy shirt.  That's a lot of orange and a lot of Johngy.  I snapped the photo below, which also included Assistant Coach John Witte and Bliss player Dana Dixon.
These are good people and I am proud to call them friends.  These are also people who have become friends with each other.  Worlds colliding, worlds meshing.

Jim Strong, Dana Dixon, John Witte and Ryan Andrews in Willowbrook, IL-July 2014.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #242 Paul Rudd & Velvet Sky

Athletes get trading cards.  Why not celebrities?  At least celebrities wearing athletic jerseys should get cards.  I am doing my best to create cards for jersey-clad celebs.  Once again, I feature celebs repping the opponent of the Bears.

Actor, comedian, writer and producer Paul Rudd was born in New Jersey.  His mother was a sales manager for a television station in Kansas City, which explains his allegiance to the Kansas City sports teams.  Rudd honors the late great Derrick Thomas by wearing #58 on his Celebrity Jersey Card.

Velvet Sky graces a Celebrity Jersey Card again.  This time, she is wearing #25 for Jamaal Charles.  Charles has had a nice career, but I like Velvet better at running back.  I think Velvet definitely has better moves.

Introducing Matt and Erin Parker

Okay, technically, when this post goes live, Matt and Erin will not officially be married, but it will be just hours away.  I didn't want to wait until the afternoon.

Today is a celebration.  Matt and Erin will become husband and wife in front of family and friends.  The young couple will officially begin their lives together.

I can't believe how time has flown.  Suddenly it seems, Matt is a fine young adult.  Where did the time go?  It also seems just yesterday he started dating Erin.  I think it has actually been more than seven years.

I am very proud to be standing up next to Matt as his best man.  It is an honor and will be a memory that I will cherish.

Matt is a great kid (since he is unmarried right as I type this, I can still call him a kid).  Together they will be a great couple.  I wish them a lifetime of happiness.  I hope you join me in sending good vibes and all that stuff their way.

Matt and Erin Parker in in Woodridge, IL-August 2015.

Culture Shock with Katrina Catizone

We return to coverage of Days of the Dead Culture Shock with artist Katrina Catizone.  Her charcoal drawings really caught my attention.  It is hard not to further investigate a wall of pictures which included John Waters (visible over her right shoulder), Abe Vigoda and Spiderman.

Self-taught, Catizone does "hyper-realistic portraits" and charcoal drawings.  In addition to the ones listed above, I also saw Princess Leia, Christopher Walken, Catwoman Julie Newmar and many others.  A you can tell, her subject matter is quite varied.  Aside from her obvious talent, her wide range of coverage also fascinated me.

All of her creations are beautiful, but the charcoal art really is incredible.  The pictures are rich and detailed.  They could almost pass for photographs.

Head over to KatrinaShop on Etsy to see and purchase Catizone's creations.  You can also follow Katrina Catizone on Instagram and Katrina Catizone Art on Facebook.

Katrina Catizone and me in Indianapolis, IN-February 2015.

Pretty. Strong. Thoughts

Tuesday night, the much-anticipated docu-series Pretty.  Strong. debuted.  The Oxygen network series focused on the Chicago Bliss, my Chicago Bliss.

As I wrote in my last story for Tru School Sports (The Chicago Bliss are “Pretty.  Strong”), I talked about how much potential the show had.  The Chicago Bliss are gold.  You have 20 beautiful, intelligent, humorous, articulate, athletic women, who play football in revealing uniforms.  At the helm is Coach Keith Hac, a football genius, whose honesty and openness is so refreshing.

This is what drew me to the Bliss.  This is what would draw others to the Bliss.  This is what I hoped would be featured on the show.

Unfortunately, I have to admit I thought the first episode was not (pardon my pun) “pretty strong.”  Maybe I wanted too much.  Maybe I wanted the nation to see what I have seen over the last three seasons as somewhat of an insider.

Pretty.  Strong. started with no real background info on the team or the league.  It briefly introduced the eight Bliss players who would be featured.  Those women include MVP quarterback Heather “Rockstar” Furr, All Alberts, ChrisDell “Ferrari” Harris, Yashi Rice, Chantell Taylor, Jamie Barwick, Deena Fagiano and Nani Nwani.

The two main stories of the night were Heather moving in with her boyfriend Matt and dissension on the team in regards to Nani.  Their first game of the season was the ending and the backdrop for the (for now?) ending of the Nani disturbances.

Maybe my problem is with reality shows.  Reality shows (or docu-series, unscripted shows, reality-based ones or whatever) are not really reality.  I’ve seen this first hand from being involved in a couple other reality series.

Reality shows have goals and those in charge can manipulate situations and editing to accomplish whatever goals they have.  That’s the shame, because the “reality” of the Bliss is so entertaining and gripping on its own.

I am pretty sure I am not the target audience for Pretty.  Strong.  Demographically, I am a male interested in women and sports, but I am just a bit old.  I also think they are hoping for a large female audience.

I cannot judge how females enjoyed the show, but my male friends and I wanted to see more of the football and less of the personal lives.  Even when they showed the football stuff, it fell flat.

When Coach Hac informed Nani that she was not starting, he did so very calmly.  Coach Hac isn’t a raving lunatic, but he is a passionate coach.  He yells.  I have seen it.  Maybe he toned it down and showed some extra heart because he was benching a player?

The content of the first show was good.  It just wasn’t great.  These women are capable of greatness.  I had hoped Pretty.  Strong. would showcase their greatness.

Over the last three seasons, I have individual conversations and interactions with each of these women.  I respect them totally.  I am one of their biggest fans and supporters.  It is because of my dedication that I want them to shine brightly for the national audience.

This is just the beginning of the Pretty.  Strong. series.  I will keep watching and keep reporting.  I’d love to hear what others think and I am sure the Bliss would love your opinions.

ChrisDell Harris and me in Bridgeview, IL-May 2015.

Cobra Is Your New Resistance Pro Champ

Resistance Pro has a new Heavyweight champ and his name is Cobra, the Muay Thai Warrior as managed by Mr. Justin King.  Congratulations to the new champ and to King.  Like them or not, they worked very hard to get here.

Cobra has had an interesting career in RPro.  He has worked his way up the ranks through hard work and with a little help from Mr. King.  As much grief as I give him, they are not the first wrestler-manager combo to use a bit of trickery to climb to the top.  They just did it better than anyone else at this point.

You can read my full report on Cobra winning the title, along with the rest of the night's action on Tru School Sports at On the Beat at Resistance Pro's "Rolling Thunder."  I also scored the first interview with the new champ and his mouth piece after the match.  That can be found at On the Beat with Cobra and Justin King at Resistance Pro's "Rolling Thunder."

While I congratulate Cobra on his great win, I also have to commend former champ Suge D on a great run with the belt.  Suge was a true champ in every sense.  He was a leader in the locker room.  He connected with the fans.  He put on fantastic matches.  On this particular night, he had already had two hard-fought matches and an injured leg, but still he put up a valiant effort, despite losing the title to Cobra.

Make no mistake, Cobra is a worthy champ.  He is an excellent in-ring worker.  I'd like to see him fight cleanly, but I do admit King is very entertaining, even when he is giving me grief (which is pretty much always).

Once again, congratulations to Cobra and King.  Good luck in your championship run.

Cobra, me and Justin King in Summit, IL-September 2015.

The Chicago Bliss are "Pretty. Strong."

Pretty.  Strong. debuts tonight on the Oxygen Network.  Pretty.  Strong. will focus on the Chicago Bliss on and off the football field.
I have had an interesting three year journey with the Bliss.  The league is not always the most press-friendly, but the players and coaches have been nothing but great.  I can't say a bad word about the Chicago Bliss.
Tonight is a bit of an odd night.  I fear my little secret will become national headlines.  Of course, I think the Bliss players deserve every bit of recognition they can get.  They bust their butts for months just to play a handful of games.  Their dedication is amazing.
The root of my angst stems from memories of Jack and I hanging around parctice after practice, being almost a part of the team.  Once the show hits (and even in the last few weeks of publicity), the Bliss have been gaining so much recognition and public awareness that it feels like I am losing my special secret pleasure.  I guess my small loss is the public's big gain.
Tune into Pretty.  Strong. and see for yourself.  I am sure you will jump on the Bliss bandwagon, too.
There are a lot of great stories on the team, but watch out for Jamie Barwick.  I think she might be the under-the-radar breakout of the show.  You read it here first.

Jamie Barwick and me in Bridgeview, IL-May 2015.

Friendly Encounters: Bugs Bunny and Amy Jo Hill

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

My buddy Chazz Moretti might argue that Amy Joe Hill sees a big celebrity every day.  This might be true, seeing as Chazz and Amy are a couple, but for the purpose of this "Friendly Encounter, I am going to feature Amy with an even bigger celebrity.

Even Chazz cannot deny that Bugs Bunny is a slightly bigger celebrity, even if Bugs is animated.  Of course, Chazz is well-renowned for his career in wrestling and his general media presence, but Bugs has been around a lot longer and is world famous.

There is no shame in finishing behind Bugs in celebdom.  Aside from his cartoons and movies, Bugs can often be seen at Six Flags, as was the case when Amy met him and got the picture below.

This whole things gives me an idea.  Why can't Chazz also be a star at an amusement park?  Would it be ChazzLand?  Moretti Place?  I'm just having a blast picturing a big Chazz character walking around, posing for pictures with all of his adoring fans.  This could be big!

I guess the real winner is Amy though.  Not only did she get to meet Bugs, she gets to be with Chazz every day.  Okay, seriously, we all know Chazz is the real winner in that scenario.  Still, to keep peace, I will end by saying they are both lucky to have found each other and I am lucky to be friends with both.

Bugs Bunny and Amy Jo Hill in Gurnee, IL-August 2015.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #241 Naya Rivera & Velvet Sky

Athletes get trading cards.  Why not celebrities?  At least celebrities wearing athletic jerseys should get cards.  I am doing my best to create cards for jersey-clad celebs.  Today, I continue my theme of featuring celebs who are repping the jerseys of the opponent of the Bears.

Actress Naya Rivera was born in Valencia, California and stays true to her roots by sporting an Oakland Raiders jersey for her Celebrity Jersey Card.  Rivera, who has been in show business practically since birth, really gained fame on tv's Glee.  The #81 could be for NFL Hall of Famer Tim Brown or maybe it is for her namesake, Mychal Rivera.

Once again, we have wrestler Velvet Sky appearing on a Celebrity Jersey Card.  This time, Velvet is wearing a Raiders #20, which I am claiming is a Darren McFadden jersey.  The #20 has not been worn with much success with the Raiders, other than by McFadden.

Magic at the Ballpark with Jeff Scanlan

Chuck Gekas introduced me to Jeff Scanlan when we were at a Milwaukee Brewers game last season.  His friend Scanlan was entertaining the crowd on the right field concourse.

Scanlan's performance was impressive on multiple levels.  He was performing up-close magic.  I think this is the toughest.  How do you do card tricks within inches of people's eyes?  Yet he did.

He also had a good rapport with the young and old fans.  Engaging an audience is always tough, but engaging them within minutes, when a ball game is being played is magic in itself.

He also showed us some ridiculous tricks, like putting a full size sneaker into a bottle.  I have no idea how that could be done, but he has done it with sneakers, baseballs, decks of cards and more.  The guy is amazing.

I ran into him at the Chicago Bandits Home Opener.  Once again, Scanlan had a steady crowd around him as he performed trick after trick.  This is just one of the cool things that the Bandits had on their schedule.  They entertain fans on and off the field.

While you are surfing the web, go to JeffScanlan.com.  Make sure you look for his bottle tricks there, along with all of the other magical fun.

Jeff Scanlan and me in Rosemont, IL-May 2015.

Susan Saranwrap and the Windy City Rollers

Susan Saranwrap is an official for the Windy City Rollers.  As I have written many times, this roller derby has rules and enforces them.  Aside from her name, she is just like any official in any professional sports league.

I have been covering the WCR for a few years and I find myself enjoying it even more every time I am out there.  The crowd is lively, filled with friends, family and fans of the WCR.  The age range is across the board.  Everyone is just there to have a great time.

Tonight there is a WCR playoff viewing party at Cary's Lounge in Chicago.  The party starts at 7 p.m., with an 8 p.m. game time.  There will be lots of fun, mystery $4 beers, derby family, friends and fans.  It should be a great time.  

I hope to see some friends out there.  For more info on the teams and league, head over to WindyCityRollers.com.

Susan Saranwrap and me in Chicago, IL-February 2015.

Barry Bostwick Loves Johngy's Beat

At the Wizard World Chicago 2015 Press Reception, I had the pleasure of interviewing Barry Bostwick.  I even fluffed my hair with Bostwick.  That interview, including our hair fluffing, can be found at On the Beat with Barry Bostwick at Wizard World.

I had interacted with Bostwick previously at Days of the Dead.  While mingling before this interview, Bostwick brought up our time at Days.  I am always amazed when celebrities remember me like that.  Bostwick meets thousands of fans at these conventions.  He meets hundreds of press and public relations people.  I would think the experiences are a blur.  Yet, there we were and there he was remembering me.  It just strikes me as funny.

After our interview, Bostwick did a promo for Johngy's Beat.  That promo is below and also has taken its rightful place in the promo column on the left.