Celebrity Jersey Cards #320 Travis Tritt & Kate Upton

This is a regular series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys.  Today, we continue working our way alphabetically through Major League Baseball.

Born in Marietta, George, singer, sopng-writer and actor Travis Tritt remained true to his roots by repping the Atlanta Braves for his Celebrity Jersey Card.  Tritt, whose real first name is James, has sold millions of records in his 25+ year career.

Model and actress Kate Upton was born in Michigan, but Braves jersey on her Celebrity Jersey Card makes sense.  Bookending Kate are the Upton brothers, Melvin (BJ) and Justin.  The Upton brothers might have more baseball talent, but Kate looks better in the jersey.

Primo Cardinalli at Motor City Comic Con 2016

When I first saw Primo Cardinalli's creations, I immediately thought there was an old school feel to it.  Then I learned that he is often called "That Retro Guy."  I was close.

Okay, I'm no genius though.  Anyone who looks at his pieces would probably say the same.  More importantly, if you see his work, you'll love his work.

I really like his Munsters quartered piece and his Chucky (Child's Play) creation.  There are also many other cool works, like his take on Norman Bates (Psycho), Superman, Hitchcock, Planet of the Apes and on and on.  

Primo has worked with several comics, publishers and graphics companies.  He also works independently creating and selling various pieces, like my aforementioned favorites and more.  He is very visible on the comic con scene and I highly recommend you check out his work and talk to him.  He's a bit of a character.

Aside from connventions, you can follow Primo Cardinalli on twitter.  You can also see a lot of his creations at Primo Cardinalli on Instagram.

Primo Cardinalli and me in Novi, MI-May 2016.

Joke Box Hero and the Windy City Rollers 2017

I have been covering the Windy City Rollers for a few years now.  The Rollers are a flat track derby league based in Chicago.  Last week, I had a new experience with the WCR.

The WCR Travel Teams were hosting the Twin City Derby Girls and the Ann Arbor Derby Dimes.  The contests were being held at the Broadway Armory on Chicago's north side.

Broadway Armory Park is the Chicago Park District's largest indoor recreational facility.  The CPD purchased it in 1998, after the National Guard no loner needed the space for military purposes.  The 87-year-old facility houses five gyms and thirteen rooms.

The Broadway Armory is a bit of national and Chicago history.  It also has great character and ambience.  The layout has the fans very close to the track and provides for an up close look at the action.

Because the night featured the WCR Travel Teams consisting of the WCR Second Wind and the WCR All-Stars, many usual skaters were not in action.  Those skaters were on hand though, to cheer on their derby mates and to mingle with the fans.

At regular WCR events, the action is provided by the four WCR teams, the Manic Attackers, the Fury, the Double Crossers and Hell's Belles.  Therefore, the fans are usually divided fairly equally among those teams.  On this special night, the crowd was almost unanimously cheering for the WCR skaters against the visitors.

The All-Stars and the Second Wind did not disappoint the fans either.  The All-Stars crushed the Twin City Derby Girls 326-45.  The Second Wind beat the Ann Arbor Derby Dimes 237-199.

After the night of hard fought action, the teams shook hands as usual.  Much like when the WCR teams play each other, the roller derby community is tight knit and supportive of each other.  They are fierce rivals on the track, but fierce friends off it.

The skaters are also very fan friendly.  Fans of all ages filled the seats and cheered on their favorite skaters.  The fans also got pictures and autographs from the skaters.

I cannot say enough good things about the Windy City Rollers.  I can promise you that you will enjoy the night whether it is a Travel Team night or a regular WCR night.  Either way, the night is filled with great competition from athletic women, along with a party-like atmosphere throughout the night.

The next night of WCR action is Saturday, May 20 at the Broadway Armory.  You can get more info at WindyCityRollers.com or follow the WCR on Facebook and the WCR on twitter.

I would like to thank the Windy City Rollers for their time and consideration.  I also want to thank our rep Joke Box Hero for facilitating the evening for us.

Joke Box Hero and me in Chicago, IL-April 2017.

Cards That Never Were: Luis Alvarado Topps 1975, '77 and '78

Cards That Never Were is a recurring series where I create virtual; trading cards for players who were missed in various sets.  It is a concept I have borrowed from too many to list, but I appreciate all of them.
Infielder Luis Alvarado made his MLB debut in 1968 with the Boston Red Sox.  He played parts of three seasons there, before being traded to the Chicago White Sox.  That was a big trade, as he was traded with Mike Andrews for Luis Aparicio.
Early in the 1974 season, he was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, who traded him to the Cleveland Indians a month later.  Alvarado spent 1975 in the minors, but was traded back to the Cardinals organization in midseason.  After the 1976 season, he was purchased by the Detroit Tigers, then purchased by the New York Mets.  He started 1977 with the Mets, but was "returned" to the Tigers, where he finished out the season.  He finished his playing career in the Mexican League.
Topps gave Alvarado his first card in their 1970 set.  He split that "Red Sox Prospects" card with Billy Conigliaro.  He actually had more plate appearances in 1968 (49) than in 1969 (5), but Topps did not give him a card in their 1969 set.  He appeared on cards through the 1974 set, including that awesome 1973 card, which also featured some vehicles in the background.
In 1974, he appeared in 86 games, but was left out of the 1975 set.  His 16 games in 1976 and his 3 games in 1977 did not merit cards either, but that didn't stop me from creating cards for him for '75, '77 and '78.
For 1975, he appears with the Indians.  For '77, I gave him a card with the Mets, although he did join them in February, which might have been too late in reality.  Still, it would have been a cool card, because he never actually played for them in the majors.  For '78, I used a picture of him with the Tigers.  This would also be a career capper card.  Unfortunately, none of these cards show him with the Cardinals, but that's how it goes.  Actually, if I had a picture of him with the Cards, I would have made a 1977 Cardinals Topps card with them and a '77 OPC card with the Mets.

DePaul Coach Eugene Lenti Is A Winner

The Lenti family has carved out quite a legacy on the Chicago sports scene.  Among other family members, Frank (Mt. Carmel) and Eugene (DePaul) have done historic things at my alma maters.

Like his family, Eugene is not overly concerned with numbers or statistics.  He cares about winning and teaching.  This is just one of the reasons he has won so much and has staggering numbers and stats on his resume.

In his 36th year coaching DePaul softball, Eugene has won 1,263 games, winning #1200 in 2014.  Since 1999,i he has taken four teams to the Women's College World Series.

There have also been a lot of individual player honors over the years.  Of course, my old favorite Kirsten Verdun won her share of awards under Eugene's tutelage.

While he obviously loves softball, he lists it as third, behind family and school.  As a teacher, he instills these values onto his players.

Last Wednesday, I watched my alma mater lose 8-0 to the Northwestern Wildcats.  On one hand, my loyalties were divided.  On the other hand, I couldn't lose either way.

I met Coach Eugene after the game.  Despite the tough loss, he was in great spirits.  That is a real winner.  That is Eugene Lenti.

Eugene Lenti and me in Evanston, IL-April 2017.

On the Beat With Michael Kingston of "Headlocked" at C2E2 2017

Longtime wrestling fan Michael Kingston was dissatisfied with the focus of most wrestling comics.  He felt that wrestling comics should feature actual wrestling.  Since none apparently did, Kingston decided to correct that omission himself.

That is the basic backstory of Headlocked, but the full story is fascinating and truly just beginning.  Kingston's work has been praised by the wrestling community.  Fans love the work, but wrestlers have also gotten behind the series.  

Back in 2009, WWE Hall of Famer Jerry "The King" Lawler jumped on board as the permanent cover artist.  The wrestling support doesn't end there, though.  Others, including Rob Van Dam, Hurricane Helms, Ken Anderson, Christopher Daniels, Sam Shaw, Sinn Bodhi and more have contributed art or content already and many others have signed on for the future.

What a future it will be, too.  Headlocked is only picking up steam.  The Kickstarter page of "Headlocked: The Hard Way" still has about a week to run and has already surpassed the initial goal of $20,000.  There is still time to contribute and all donations are welcome and donations starting at $5 are rewarded with various cool and unique gifts.

At C2E2, the Headlocked booth was one of the liveliest booths.  #SuperFriends David Herro joined Kingston in hosting Lawler, "Mean" Gene Okerlund, Lita and Jack Swagger.  

I always enjoy talking to Kingston.  I also totally enjoy the Headlocked comic series.  I am sure you will enjoy it, too, whether you are a wrestling fan or not.

Check out HeadlockedComic.com for all of the latest news.  You can also follow Headlocked on Facebook and Headlocked on twitter.

Thank you to C2E2 for allowing us access once again.  Thank you to Kingston for his time and consideration.

Friendly Encounters: Alfred Morris and Mark Bodek

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

That Mark Bodek is really started to get on my nerves.  It's not enough that he hangs with so many wrestling legends.  He also hangs with other sports greats.

Actually, the DC area-based Mark is a great guy.  He's an avid fan of the Redskins and Nationals.  That's all great.  It's when he meets these stars that he raises my ire, but only because I'd love to be there.

A few years back, Mark met former running back Alfred Hayes.  That would be during his rookie season with the Redskins.  Hayes put together four excellent seasons there and finished with one season of limited action with the Dallas Cowboys.

Someday, I'd like to meet Mark.  I have never been to a game at Nationals Park.  That would be a great place to catch a game and meet the legend himself.

Mark Bodek and Alfred Morris in Reston, VA-December 2012.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #319 Avril Lavigne & Sarah Silverman

This is a regular feature in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing pro jerseys.  Today, we continue to work our way alphabetically through Major League Baseball.

Singer and actress Avril Lavigne was born in Belleville, Ontario, Canada.  As a teen, Lavigne won a contest to sing with fellow Canadian Shania Twain.  Since then, she has sold millions of records.  She made her Celebrity Jersey Card debut from a first pitch appearance.

Norn in Bedford, New Hampshire, comedian, actress, producer, and writer Sarah Silverman is accompanied by Ace, the Blue Jays mascot on her Celebrity Jersey Card.  She gets extra points for wearing a glove.  Silverman was on Saturday Night Live for only one season, but she has gone on to much more success on her own.

On The Beat With PC Labrie of the Rockford IceHogs: 4/15/17

Last Saturday, the Rockford IceHogs ended their 2016-17 season with a 5-2 loss to the Iowa Wild.  My recap is on PuckPlanet.com at Rockford IceHogs End Season With a Loss.

In the post-game media session, left wing Pierre-Cedric Labrie answered our questions.  In the video below, you can watch the session and you will hear several questions from me.  It was probably my most active media session.

Labrie talked about the game, the season, his offseason and more.  Obviously, he is disappointed, as is the whole organization, but Labrie answered everything.  We even joked a bit about his offseason.

Once again, I want to thank the IceHogs organization for their hospitality.  I hope everyone has enjoyed my coverage this season.  We already have plans for more coverage with a few interesting angles for next season.

You can check here for recurring coverage.  You can also head to IceHogs.com for regular updates and info, including the 2017-18 schedule once it is released.

Kidney Lauper and the Windy City Rollers 2017

I can make the joke that Kidney Lauper "just wants to have fun," but the hard-working Windyt City Roller deserves better than that.  She does like to have fun, but she also wants to win and to entertain the fans.

KL started with the Windy City Rollers with the Haymarket Rioters in 2014, then moved onto Second Wind in 2015.  Last Season, she skated for the Manic Attackers.  Once again, she is skating with the Manic Attackers this season.

Despite a night of action with two hard-fought games, KL came out to greet fans, sign autographs and take pictures.  You could tell she was a bit tired from all of the effort, but you coul also tell how much she enjoyed it and what it meant to her.  It meant a lot to her little fans, too, and even to the big fan in the picture below.

KL wears #622.  I love it that WCR uses three-digit numbers.  I have long been an advocate of a pro sports team utilizing three digit numbers.  It might sound silly, but I like it.

There is a lot more to like about the WCR than just three-digit numbers though.  As I have written many times, these women are so dedicated, passionate and athletic.  They practice hard and often.  Aside from their colorful names, the rest of the WCR action is real.  Scores are kept and rules are enforced.  This is pure competition and the skaters and fans take it all very seriously, while having a blast.

Th WCR skaters will be in action again on Saturday, April 22.  You can get more info and updates at WindyCityRollers.com or by following the WCR Facebook page.

Kidney Lauper and me in Chicago, IL-February 2017.

Happy Birthday Jean

Today is my sister Jean's birthday!

Of course, I love my sister, but I also like her.  She's a lot of fun and not just because she lets me watch the Game Show Network all day at her house.  We always share laughs and occasionally complaints about life.

I also appreciate Jean.  This was never more evident than earlier this year when I was recovering from a nose/throat surgery.  Jean flew back in from Florida and even extended her stay to get me through the process.  I honestly could not have done it without her.  I even had fun despite the pain because of her.  I could not have asked for a better nurse or friend.  I can not ask for a better sister.

I love you, Jean.  I hope you have a great birthday!

Frank Wroblewski, Jean Parker and me in Fort Myers, FL-March 2017.

CM Punk at C2E2 2016

Chicagoan CM Punk is one of the recently most popular wrestlers I have met.  Punk achieved a lot o success in a relatively short time in the WWE and his departure caused a lot of sadness (and rumors of his return).

I can't say Punk is one of the all-time greats.  I think his overall body of work is just too short.  I think he was on his way.  I think during his time, he was a top performer.  Unfortunately for wrestling fans, he went on to other stuff.

He has his detractors, too.  Punk has been said to be a bit prickly.  This was not the case when Scottie Steiner and I met him at C2E2.  It was also not the case in the media session there.  In fact, Punk seemed to be in an extra good mood.

Some might still criticize him for this, as he was getting paid to be nice.  I rebuff that by acknowleding his payment, but pointing to oters in the same situation who have been far less friendly.  I must be fair and say he was a great celebrity guest at C2E2.

I am happy to hear that Punk and his wife AJ Lee will once again be appearing at C2E2.  Of course, I'll be there and reporting back here.  For more info, head to C2E2.com.

Scottie Steiner, CM Punk and me in Chicago, IL-March 2016.

On the Beat With Coach Ted Dent of the Rockford IceHogs: 04/15/17

Saturday night, the Rockford IceHogs lost to the Iowa Wild 5-2 to end their 2016-17 season.  It was a frustrating season for all, but it ended with a big fan lovefest between the players and the fans on the ice.  My full recap is on PuckPlanet.com at Rockford IceHogs End Season With a Loss.

In the post-game media session,.Coach Ted Dent gave a fair assessment of the season.  While overall it was disappointing, there were some pleasant surprises and there is reason to be optimistic about next season.  Dent was his usual self.  He doesn't sugarcoat the negatives, but he doesn't focus on them either.  Truthfully, it is about learning and preparing the future Chicago Balckhawks, as much as it is actually winning in Rockford.

After the game, many lucky fans got sweaters right off the back of the players in a big warm ceremony on the ice.  The IceHogs created a cool video of the season, which was greeted by thunderous applause from the sellout crowd.

Having access most people don't get to have, I also saw the IceHogs as they made their way to the lockerroom.  They had their head held high and were openly talking about the appreciation the fans showed them.  I'm not a Hockey homer when I say that there really is something special in Rockford and I am so glad to be right in the mix.

This doesn't end my coverage of the IceHogs for this season.  There will be sporadic pieces right here all through the offseason.  You can also go to IceHogs.com for the latest news, including the first look at the 2017-18 schedule once it is released.

(Post-game media session video courtesy of IceHogs.com.)

Friendly Encounters: Southpaw and Glen Rylko

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

My buddy Glen Rylko is a bit late for my "Mascot Week," but that won't stop me from running his picture, espceially since baseball season is underway.  Glen is a big fan of the White Sox and it has been evident in some of his previous appearances here.  This time, he is featured with Southpaw, the newest mascot of the Sox.

Southpaw debuted in June of 2004.  I don't know what exactly Southpaw is.  Maybe nobody knows.  Maybe he isn;t anything specifically.  He might just be a bigm, fluffy generic mascot.

Anyway, he is an improvement over the Sox mascots of my youth.  As mascots started popping up everywhere, the Sox created Ribbie and Rhubarb.  I guess they were popular with the really young folks, but nobody else seemed to care for them.  Then again, most grownups don't care for any mascots.

I do have an appreciation for mascots though.  Any company can toss out some poor guy in a goofy, nondescript mascot costume, but a well-crafted mascot with a talented person inside can actually be entertaining and charming.

On the other side, Glen might say he is charming and entertaining.  I can't argue that.  He is a good guy and we cross paths at various comic cons and wrestling events.  Those events don't usually have mascots though.  They don't need them.  There are already anough characters present.

Glen Rylko and Southpaw in Chicago, IL-June 2016.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #318 Booker T & Clay Walker

This is a regular feature in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing sports jerseys.  Today, we continue working our way alphabetically through Major League Baseball.

Retired professional wrestler Booker T (Huffman) was born in Houston, Texas.  He is planning a Mayorial run for the 2019 election.  Booker had a great career in the ring and currently does commentary for the WWE.  On his Celebrity Jersey Card, he looks like he might be arguing with the umpire on his first pitch.

Country music artist Clay Walker was born in Beaumont, Texas.  He remained true to his Texas roots by wearing an Astros jersey while performing the National Anthem.  I subtract points for wearing a collared shirt under the jersey for his Celebrity Jersey Card.

On the Beat With Coach Kate Drohan of the Northwestern Wildcats-04/12/17

On Wednesday, we were back on the Beat with the Northwestern Wildcats Women's softball team.  While not much of a distance from their usual home games in Evanston, this game was a road game against Loyola on the north side of Chicago.

The Wildcats beat the Ramblers 6-3 to improve their record to 16-20.  The loss evened Loyola's record at 18-18.

The weather was chilly.  Northwestern's website called it "crisp, like an unripened pear."  The Wildcats warmed up quickly though.

Leadoff hitter Sabrina Rabin worked the pitcher hard, coaxing a walk after 8 pitches.  Krista Williams followed with a single.  Marissa Panko's single scored Rabin, but Williams also raced home when the Ramblers outfielder bobbled the ball for an error.

The Wildcats kept the pressure on by scoring again in the second.  Sammy Nettling singled and was driven home by a line shot double from Alcy Bush.  The Wildcats were up 3-0.

In the bottom of the second, the Ramblers got two singles, followed by a home run.  The score was 3-3 after two innings.

In the top of the fourth, Nettling singled and Bush doubled again.  Rabin singled Bush to third. Bush then scored on a groundout from Williams.  Panko's double scored Rabin.

That was the end of the scoring.  The rest of the game sped along and the Wildcats walked away with the 6-3 win.

After the game, we talked to Northwestern Coach Kate Drohan.  We got her assessment fo the team so far, as well as her thoughts on pleasant surprises.

The Wildcats are now in Minnesota for a three game series with the Golden Gophers.  This will be a good test for the Wildcats.  I'd love the team to sweep, but two wins would be great.  Minimally, I want to see the Cats take one.

As of this writing, there are fourteen regular season games left.  The Wildcats are 12th in the 14 team Big Ten Conference.  michigan (9-1), Minnesota (8-1), Illinois (7-2) and Ohio State (8-3) are the front-runners right now.  At 3-6 in Cobference play, the Wildcats have a bit of a climb, but this team is poised to make a litttle run.  I don't know if 1st is probable, but the can certainly make noise and reach the upper end of the standings.

We will continue following the Wildcats and reporting here.  You can also get more info at the Northwestern Wildcats Softball site.  Purple Power is alive in Evanston and I am loving it.

Thank you to Northwestern University for their hospitality.  Thanks to Coach Drohan for her time and consideration.

Alexecutor and the Windy City Rollers 2017

Alexecutor skates for the Windy City Rollers.  Sporting the #10 for Hell's Belles, Alexecutor is an enthusiastic ball of energy on and off the track.

Like all of the WCR skaters, Alexecutor is very fan-friendly.  When she is not racing around the flat track for her team, she can usually be found mingling with fans, posing for picture and signing autographs.  Also like the other skaters, she seems to have as much fun doing all of that as the fans have watching her and the rest of the WCR.

I have been a big promoter of the WCR since my first time there several years ago.  I went just to try something new and really loved the action and the athletes.  The whole experience is really like joining another community.  The skaters are like a tight family and the fans are very loyal and rabid.  It's all very competitive, but also very fun.  In short, it's a great night of entertainment.

The WCR is always recruiting new skaters.  If I was a young female, I would love to join the fun.  The WCR is holding a training camp on April 29 and 30.  Baller Shot Caller of the Atlanta Roller Girls and USA Roller Derby will also be on hand.

Another upcoming event is Officials Recruitment Night on Wednesday, April 12 from 7 pm to 9 pm at Cary's Lounge in Chicago.  This is a chance for anyone to apply to be an official for WCR.  If you have any interest in being a skating or non-skating official, this is your chance to learn, ask questions and possibly start your journey.

For more information, including schedules and ticketing, check out WindyCityRollers.com.  You can also follow the WCR on Facebook and the WCR on twitter.

 Alexecutor and me in Chicago, IL-February 2017.

Jay Brant at C2E2 2016

Jay Brant has perfected a simple art concept.  He jokes that his "Heads Up" style was developed because of his limited artistic ability.  As the name implies, "Heads Up" focuses on the heads of his subjects (usually in the superhero or cartoon field).  

You can see some of his work in the background of our picture below.  He has dozens more and he also does commissions.  I have one of his Aquaman pieces in my collection.

I still think it would be cool if Brant incorporated pro wrestlers into his gallery.  The cartoonish aspect of wrestling would lend itself perfectly to his work.

I always look forward to seeing Brant at conventions to see any new creations.  I also like the visual that his wall of "heads" creates.

Follow Heads Up Studios on Facebook to get all of the latest news on Brant.  You can also see a lot of his creations on his Heads Up Studios DeviantArt site.

Jay Brant and me in Chicago, IL-March 2016.

Elliott Serrano Loves Johngy's Beat

I always say Elliott Serrano is what Johngy's Beat dreams of being.  He is called "The King of Chicago Geeks" and he welcomes that title.  He's earned it.

The man has done it all.  He's written for the Red Eye and Playboy.  He's frequently on the radio.  He's had many roles at the various comic con events in the area.  If it's geeky and nerdy, Elliott will be there, but despite the subject and his surroundings, Elliott remains a cool dude.

I'm happy to say he is also one of the friendliest people you will ever meet.  I had the pleasure of working with him on a benefit show last year and also interviewing him for an upcoming show on HeroTV.

After that interview (because I hadn't bothered him enough), I asked him to do a promo for Johngy's Beat.  Of course, he agreed, because he is just that nice.

That promo is below and also takes a spot in the left column of promos on this site.

Thank you Elliott and hope to see you soon.  I promise I won't bug you too much.

97.5 FM The Rock at Wizard World St. Louis 2017

As we walked into the convention center to start our Wizard World experience, we were greeted with some awesome music.  We soon learned the tunes were courtesy of WDLJ 97.5 FM The Rock.

Based out of southern Illinois, The Rock has been rocking the airwaves since 2003.  The Rock plays all of the great rock songs from the 1960's through today.

Their booth was very lively.  We talked to on-air personality Jack Davis and General Manager Elaine McNamara.  We also walked away with some cool 97.5 swag, including a classic black tshirt.

Davis rules the airwaves Monday through Friday from 1 pm until 6 pm.  He features choice cuts, the Daily Diamond, the Fab Four at 4 and more.

Davis and McNamara were very engaging and positive.  It was refreshing to see a radio station feature two important members at such an event and to have those members be so enthusiastic.  With so many stars at an event like Wizard World, it is easy to "phone-in" such an appearance, but the 97.5 booth was the opposite.  They actually attracted many fans who wanted to be around the musical fun.  Kudos to the 97.5 staff!

For more info on The Rock, check out The Rock's website.  As good as they are now, there are promises that it is just getting better.  If their appearance at Wizard World was an indication, I'd say more fun is ahead.

Thank you to Wizard World for another great event.  Thanks, too, to The Rock's Elaine and Jack for their hospitality and for keeping the place rocking!

Elaine McNamara, Jack Davis and me in St. Louis, MO-April 2017

Friendly Encounters: Adam Clayton and Erin Morris

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

I don't know anyone who has seen more concerts or driven more miles to those concerts than Erin Morris.  In between those trips, she also has carved a niche on the Chicago indy wrestling scene.

I barely understand how she manages to go on all of those trips to see her favorite bands, but even more mysterious is how she meets so many of the musicians.  She is indeed a woman of mystery.

I first saw Erin when she was managing a wrestler at a Chicago wrestling event.  I don't even remember which event or who she managed.  Erin popped back on my radar at Resistance Pro (where else?), where she started as a manager.  She has since become the musical maestro (DJ E?).

Back to the musical passion, while her musical interests are pretty much not the same as mine, I do admire her dedication and ability to go to so many places and meet so many musicians.  Below is just one example.  She got a selfie (I can't even do selfies) with U2 bass guitarist Adam Clayton.

The other interesting thing with Erin's pictures is that the musicians always look happy.  I'd think most would be rushed and would want to get away from the throngs of fans wanting pictures and autographs.  Somehow Erin seems to bring out the smiles in them.

I can't get you pictures with many (any?) musicians, but I can get you in a picture with Erin.  Just come to any RPro wrestling show and tell her I sent you.  (Oh, she will love that.).

Erin Morris and Adam Clayton in Boston, MA-July 2015.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #317 Bruno Mars & Randy Couture

This is a regular series which attempts to combine my lifelong passion for trading cards with my semi-professional interest in celebrities.  We continue working our way alphabetically through Major League Baseball.

Peter Gene Hernandez was born in Hawaii and grew up to become versatile entertainer Bruno Mars.  He earned his Celebrity Jersey Card for wearing an A's jersey and cap for the soundcheck prior to his halftime performance at Super Bowl 50 (and when did the Super Bowl stop using Roman numerals?).

Actor and retired mixed martial artist Randy Couture was born in Everett, WA, but his Celebrity Jersey Card has him in an Oakland A's jersey, instead of his home state Seattle Mariners.  I'm not going to question the three time UFC Heavyweight champ though.  It looks good to me.

Happy Birthday Nancy

I am lucky enough to have two great sisters.  Both are celebrating birthdays this month.  Today is Nancy's birthday.

I don't even know where Nancy is right now, as her and Dave trek all over the country.  Distance doesn't really matter though.  We are always close where it counts.

Nancy is my sister, but also my friend.  We laugh and poke each other all the time, but we always love each other.

One of the best times I have had with both of my sisters was at the Billy Joel concert in Wrigley Field last year.  As a longtime Joel fan, it was fantastic sharing that experience with them.  It was just one of many great times we have had.  Any time we spend together is special.

Wherever she is, I hope Nancy enjoys her day.  Once she returns, we shall celebrate a lot of stuff at the Village Inn.  Until then, happy birthday Nanc and always know I love you.

Nancy Blais, Jean and Scott Parker and me in Chicago, IL-August 2016.

Flo at Wizard World Chicago 2016

There are many attendees of Wizard World who come in costume.  These cosplayers can be superheroes, cartoon characters, movie characters and more.  At last year's Wizard World, I ran into a cosplayer in a costume I had never seen chosen.

One enterprising young lady appeared as Flo from the Progressive Insurance ads.  Commercial spokepeople are not well represented in the cosplay community, but I appreciate them even more than the others.  How many Harley Quinn characters can I see in one day.  Flo was a huge breath of fresh air.

Granted, it didn't take a lot of effort to accomplish the Flo look, although this woman did her best to resemble Flo.  Still, a great costume does not require a ton of work.  It is the end product which is most important.

I give this Flo a solid A for appearance and an A+ for orginality.  I'm wondering if she will appear as Flo this year or if she will go for something else unique again.

Flo and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2016.

The Rick Stelmaszek Files: Part 21

It's been a while since I have delved into the Rick Stelmaszek Files.  Recently, I found a bunch of old pictures, which I will be featuring sporadically here.

The first picture is from a Denver Bears game and features pitcher Dick Such, Manager Del Wilber and catcher Stelmaszek.  The picture seems to be from 1971, when all three were together on the Bears.

The Bears were the AAA affiliate of the Texas Rangers.  Several future big leaguers were on the team, including Jeff Burroughs, Bill Fahey, Larry Biittner, Joe Lovitto and Such and Stelmaszek, of course.  In summary, 29 of the 35 players played in the majors at some point.  In 1971, Such went 5-5, while Stelmaszek hit .247 for the Bears.

Wilber was a catcher who appeared in the majors from 1946-1949 and 1951-1954.  He managed for a while in the minors and coached in the majors.  He actually managed one game for the 1973 Rangers, a team which featured Stelmaszek as a backup catcher.

Such made it to the bigs in 1970, but spent the rest of his career (1966-'73) in the minors for the Rangers.  Stelmaszek and Such would be teammates a few times and would also reunite on the coaching staff of the Minnesota Twins 

I love these old pictures and the stories behind them.  In the pre-internet days, these pictures are rare.  Finding them now is like finding baseball gold.

Dick Such, Del Wilber and Rick Stelmaszek-1971.

Brian Danhausen at Motor City Comic Con 2016

There aren't many cosplaying creators in Artist Alley at comic cons.  Given the nature of the events, you would think it would be more common.  Brian Danhausen is one of the exceptions to that generality.

Brian is an artist and an author  He is also a Paranormal Investigator and founder of Into The Afterlife Paranormal.

Brian appeared as The Joker at last year's Motor City Comic Con.  He certainly drew a lot of attention.  Beyond the great look though, Brian is a fascinating person.

IntotheAfterlifeParanormal.com is the site of his non-profit organization of investigators dedicated to the research, education and documentation of paranormal activity.  Their stated goal "is to provide proof of paranormal activity, the existence of spirits and most of all...to help those who need our help."  The investigations are free and confidential.

You can get more info on TheFinalNail.com, Brian's official site.  Whether you believe in the paranormal or not, it is still interesting to hear Brian discuss some of his experiences.  I like to think of myself as nuetral on the topic, but I find the topic and the way Brian presents it to be fascinating.

With all of the above, I haven;t even mentioned his artwork.  Brian produces beautiful pieces, including some Star Wars creations.  His work has a different feel to it than most I have seen.

I'm looking forward to seeing Brian again at the Motor City Comic Con in May.  I hope to see a lot of other friends there, too.  If you see Brian, tell him I sent you.

Brian Danhausen and me in Novi, MI-May 2016.

Cards That Never Were: Eddie Leon Topps 1976

Cards That Never Were is a recurring series in which I create virtual trading cards for players missing from various sets over the years.  It is a concept I have borrowed from far too many to list, but I appreciate all of them.
Today's card is one I have wanted to do from the very beginning of this series.  It has been my white whale.
Eddie Leon was one of my first favorite players.  I loved his 1974 Topps card.  In the powder blue and red Chicago White Sox uniform, Leon was at shortstop in mid-throw to first.  It was such a cool card.
Leon debuted in 1968 with the Cleveland Indians.  His six games and one plate appearance did not merit inclusion in the 1969 Topps set.  He played with the Indians through the 1972 season.  He was traded to my beloved Sox and played two seasons in Chicago (replaced by Bucky Dent).  After the 1975 season, he was traded to the New York Yankees, for whom he logged in one game and no plate appearances.
Leon appeared in Topps sets from 1970 through 1975.  Along with missing the '69 set, Leon did not make the cut for the 1976 set.  I do not argue that decision by Topps, but because I like Leon and I always have a soft spot for the 1976 set, I had to try to create a card for him.
Getting a color decent size pic of Leon in the Yankees uniform proved to be a challenge.  Then one day, while doing random image searches, up popped Leon with the Yankees.  I couldn't wait to creat the long-awaited 1976 card.  I'm pretty happy with how it turned out, too.

Friendly Encounters: Joe Theismann and Sherry Garrity

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

I met Sherry Garrity at a Chicago Bliss practice a few years ago.  I immediately felt that she was a whirlwind, dynamo type.  Time proved me to be correct on that one.

Sherry was a bit (just a bit) older than the age group to be a player, but she was extremely fit and probably could have made the team if that was her goal.  She had other visions though.  She did a ton of marketing for the team, as well as handling many other game-day duties.  She was a valuable asset to the team.

She has since moved on from the team, but she is still doing many great things.  At Super Bowl LI, she was mingling with so many NFL greats I lost count, but I was envious of her each time I saw another picture.

One such NFL great was former quarterback Joe Theismann.  I was a fan of Theismann and even had a Redskins Thesmann jersey back in the day.  He was an MVP in 1983 was the Offensive Player of the Year.

After a great career at Notre Dame, Theismann was drafted by the Miami Dolphins, but signed with the Toronto Argonauts instead.  After three seasons there, the Redskins acquired his rights from the Dolphins and Theismann joined them.  He was a punt returner in his first season, but eventually became the starting quarterback in 1978.  He lead the team to two Super Bowls.  A broken leg ended his 1985 season and his career.

It's always fun following Sherry on social media, even if I do gnash my teet at some of the cool people she is meeting.  Still, Sherry deserves it all.  She's as sweet as she is smart and friendly.

Sherry Garrity and Joe Theismann in Houston, TX-February 2017.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #316 Amanda Beard & Adrien Brody

This is a regular series which attempts to combine my lifelong passion for trading cards with my semi-professional interest in celebrities. With baseball seasonb upon us, once again, we will work our way alphabetically through Major League Baseball.

Swimmer and seven-time Olympic medalist Amanda Beard was born in Newport Beach, CA.  Beard earned the American Swimmer of the Year Award twice and has won a total of twenty-one medals in major international competition.  I'm guessing from her expression that her pitch attempt might not have been medal-worthy.  Still, it was good enough to earn her a Celebrity Jersey Card..

Actor Adrien Brody was born in New York, but he earned his Celebrity Jersey Card from his appearance in Angels in the Outfield.  It was his role in The Pianist, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Actor, making him the youngest to ever win the Best Actor award.

Scott Blair at C2E2 2016

Scott Blair is a professional illustrator.  I first became aware of Scott because of his cover artwork on wrestling DVD's.  His work stretchs way beyond just wrestling-related creations though.

One of my favorite stories about Scott starts with a Bettie Page inspired photo shoot he did about 19 years ago.  That started his new passion for creating modern pin-up art.  Part of me is jealous because he gets to work with so many beautiful women.  Part of me is so impressed by how awesome the creations are.

The best part though is that Scott is really a good guy.  He always has time to talk about conventions, art, wrestling or any other nonsense I bring up.  He is certainly one of my convention favorite stopping places.

You can check out some of his creations and get more info at ScottBlairArt.com.  You can also order commissions and find his convention appearance shcedule.

Scott Blair and me in Chicago, IL-March 2016.