Catching Up With Louisville Assistant Coach Griffin Joiner

Griffin Joiner had an outstanding softball playing career at the University of Kentucky. She finished in the top ten in career games played, hits, home runs, RBI, batting average, walks, at-bats, slugging percentage, total bases, fielding percentage and putouts.

The Akron Racers selected her 19th overall in the 2015 National Pro Fastpitch draft. She was named to the 2016 All-NPF team as a catcher. In 2017, she was selected to try out for the USA Softball Women's National Team.

In 2018, Griffin was an assistant under Head Coach Holly Aprile at Pittsburgh. When Aprile was named Head Coach at Louisville for the 2019 season, Griffin joined her staff again.

The Cardinals finished the season with a record of 35-23. They won the first two games in the Evanston Regional on the road to the Women's College World Series, but lost a pair to Northwestern on Sunday, to end their season. Despite the tough losses, it was a successful season for the Cardinals and the future looks bright.

I caught up with Griffin on Friday of the Regional. She looked great and sounded even better. She is happy in her coaching career and looking forward to helping to build a contender at Louisville.

Griffin is just one of the many NPF alumni coaching in the collegiate ranks. I am happy to see her and them staying in the sport and helping the next generation of young players.

The NPF players certainly do not play for the money. Salaries are relatively small, but their passion is huge. They love the game and do their best to grow it. Women like Griffin prove that there are options for young softball players. The NPF, overseas leagues and coaching are all options after college.

Obviously winning is always a goal, but I hear more about the sport, the players and the future. I see the dedication and passion from women like Griffin and I feel better about the future of women's softball. It is definitely in a better place than 20 years ago and it is on a pth to keep improving.

Griffin Joiner and me in Evanston, IL-May 2019.

Sharing the DePaul Beat With WGN's Lauren Magiera

Yesterday, I wrote about meeting media colleague Megan Mawicke at the sendoff for the DePaul women's softball team. At that event, I also met WGN's Lauren Magiera.

Chicago native Lauren has a Journalism degree from the University of Alaska Anchorage. She also was on a full ride gymnastics scholarship.

After graduation, Lauren worked in various roles for several media outlets, including most recently as a co-host with Green Bay Packers Hall of Famer Larry McCarren for a weekly 30 minute pre-game show for the Packers. Lauren joined WGN in April of 2016, as the station's first female sports anchor and reporter.

We talked about how exciting it was to have both DePaul and Northwestern doing so well in softball. It's been great for the schools, the athletes, the sport and the city. I am sure as a former athlete, Lauren had a special appreciation for what these young ladies have done.

Lauren does excellent work and it was a pleasure meeting her. You can follow Lauren on twitter at @LaurenMagiera.

Lauren Magiera and me in Chicago, IL-May 2019.

Sharing the DePaul Beat With CBS's Megan Mawicke

Last week, DePaul University hosted a big sendoff for the softball team as they headed to Ann Arbor, MI for the Regional on the road to the Women's College World Series. Thanks to DePaul's Bob Sakamoto and Alyssa Damato, I was part of the media contingent.

While waiting for the event to start, I met Megan Mawicke of CBS Chicago. Megan has a Journalism degree from Indiana University and an MBA in Broadcast Journalism from Northwestern. She is also a four time Big Ten Women’s Tennis Team champion and twice was an Illinois State Tennis champ. She competed on the World Tennis Association pro tour and in four NCAA tournaments.

Professionally she has worked for several media outlets, including Fox Sports Net, WMAQ-TV Chicago and of course CBS Chicago. She has earned three local Emmy awards.

We exchanged a few sports stories and talked a bit about travel. We both expressed an interest in the other's job duties. She liked my travel and I liked her Chicago work. As my friend Chuck would say, "We're all professionals here."

It was great talking to Megan and working alongside her at the DePaul sendoff. Unfortunately, even with both of us ending positive vibes, DePaul lost and will not be advancing in the tourney. Still, it was a great experience all season and I unexpectedly met some interesting folks like Megan.

Megan does outstanding work and it was nice to see her and CBS Chicago give coverage to the ladies of the team. You can follow Megan on twitter at @MeganMawicke.

Megan Mawicke and me in Chicago, IL-May 2019.

Cheyenne Parker Loves Johngy's Beat

Cheyenne Parker was born in Queens< New York and played basketball at High Point University for 

three seasons before transferring to Middle Tennessee State University for her last season. Parker was selected 5th overall in the 2015 WNBA draft by the Chicago Sky and has played with the team since then.

I first met Parker at Media Day last season. I had the pleasure of watching her play up close when covering the team. Last season was her best season yet, as she averaged 10 points per game.

Parker took a few minutes before a recent practice to send a shout out to Johngy's Beat. We really appreciate the support.

In turn, we encourage everyone to check out Sky.WNBA.com for all of the info on Parker and the Sky. The Sky open the season this Saturday in Minnesota against the Lynx.

Friend Encounters: Clive Barker, Tony Feddeler and David Kostman

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

Director, writer and visual artist Clive Barker always draws huge lines at Days of the Dead. Attendees with tickets to meet him, still start lining up several hours before his scheduled time. Despite the long waits, I always see fans walking away ecstatic about meeting the legend.

Barker's filmwork earns him the respect and adoration of horror fans. Hellraiser, Nightbreed, Candyman and more are fan favorites. Horror con attendees spend a lot of time, money and energy attempting to get full cast signed items. Getting Barker is the pinnacle.

My bud Tony Feddeler is a regular on the comic con scene. He is usually joined other friends. When he met Barker, he was joined by David Kostman, another comic con regular.

I always love seeing my buddies at these cons. It's like a big friend reunion. Days of the Dead is not a huge mega-con. It always has the smaller con feel, but with big names and big events. It is the perfect combination and that is why it has ben a success for almost 10 years.

Go to DaysoftheDead.com to see when and where this great con is going to be. They have recently expanded to Las Vegas and more cities are on the way.

Tony Feddeler, Clive Barker and David Kostman in Schaumburg, IL-November 2018.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #429 Nils Lofgren & Sam Moore

This is a regular series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing jerseys. Once again, we are working our way alphabetically through all of the Major League Baseball teams.

Native Chicagoan Nils Lofgren has been on the music scene since his teenage years. He has been a member of Bruce Springsteen's E Street Band (for which he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame) and of Crazy Horse. He has also enjoyed solo success. I bent the time continuum to create a Diamondbacks card prior to their existence for Lofgren's Celebrity Jersey Card.

Miami born Sam Moore rose to fame as one half of Sam and Dave, before embarking on a solo career. After almost 60 years in music, Moore still performs. One of his more recent performances was at a Diamondbacks game, which earned him a Celebrity Jersey Card. That card also bent the time continuum.

Cards That Never Were: Curt Bennett 1971-72 & 1980-81 Topps

Cards That Never Were is a recurring series in which I create virtual trading cards for players missed in various sets.  It is a concept I have borrowed from far too many to list, but I appreciate all of them.
Hockey runs in the Bennett family.  Harvey Sr., Harvey Jr., Curt and Bill all played in the NHL.  John played in the AWHA and Jim played in the IHL.  Bill was featured in an earlier Cards That Never Were.
Curt starred at Brown University and was selected by the St. Louis Blues in the 1968 NHL Draft.  He made his debut with 4 games in the 1970-71 season.  He played with the Blues in the 1971-72 season, before being traded to the New York Rangers.  After only 16 games with the Rangers, he was traded to the Atlanta Flames.  He remained with the Flames until a midseason 1977-78 trade back to the Blues.  He stayed with the Blues through the next season, before finishing his career back with the Flames for the 1979-80 season.
For his efforts, Curt received cards starting with the 1973-74 set and ending in the 1979-80 set.  I was able to create 1971-72 and 1980-81 cards for him.  Still missing is a 1972-73 card.

AJ Lee and Mental Health

A couple weeks ago, NAMI Cook County North Suburban, a local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, held a gala. Children’s Mental Health−Voices Found: Tales of Discovery and Recovery featured AJ Lee Mendez as the keynote speaker. I wrote about the night for Global Traveler at "Children's Mental Health.'

AJ is a former wrestler. More importantly, she is a survivor. Raised in a family who struggled with money issues, mental health problems and more, AJ battled her own issues until she was properly diagnosed with bipolar disorder when she was 20.

She went on to have a relatively short, nut very successful career in wrestling. She won the WWE women's title three times in 8+ years in the WWE. She married fellow wrestler CM Punk and they both have retired.

Always a role model for young women during her career, AJ felt the need to continue that path in retirement. She wrote Crazy Is My Super Power, about her life, especially her battles with mental issues. It is a fascinating and important book. It could not have been easy writing parts of the book. Having to relive certain rough patches had to be painful. It just shows how far AJ has come and how important it is to her to tell her story and help others.

This isn't a book glorifying her wrestling career. While there is plenty of wrestling content, this book is about mental health.

I talked to AJ at the gala about my appreciation for the book. I wish I had it when I was much younger, but at least youngsters today can read it. She seemed genuinely touched, as we talked for several minutes.

I ended our chat by commenting that I wore my black Chuck's because of her, but was surprised to see her without her trademark shoes. She laughed and expressed her desire to wear them instead of the more elegant shoes of the night, but she "dressed up" for the night. It was a fun moment to end the interaction.

She also spent extra time with a few others, mostly young girls. She seemed to really embrace the connections. Several of the young women (and their families) walked away in tears over the powerful interaction.

I highly recommend AJ's book. You can follow AJ on twitter to get all of her updates and info on the book.

AJ Lee and me in Wilmette, IL-May 2019.

Congrats to Shane Mercer, New Champ of The Resistance

The Resistance has a new champ in the form of "The Iron Demon" Shane Mercer. At Chapter VI, "Death Wish," Shane beat reigning champ John Skyler to claim the heavyweight title.

A few months ago, Shane went viral from a clip of him hoisting the bleachers and slamming them on to his opponent at a previous Resistance show. It was a tremendous show of strength, but for those who know Shane, it wasn't surprising.

A former tag-team champ with Hy Zaya, Shane's strength is legendary. You can see his workouts on his social media accounts. The man is a powerhouse and although he is obviously in great shape, he isn't overly huge, which makes his feats of strength even more impressive.

Best of all, Shane is a good guy. He has worked very hard at improving his wrestling. He performed well with Hy Zaya in their tag team run. He's great with the fans and in the locker room. I predict a long run with the title for Shane.

One thing that could derail his title run is the WWE. Shane has had matches in the WWE of late and he seems destined to eventually join the roster. This is one reason why everyone needs to see Shane now at The Resistance before he gets the national call.

Shane's victory was a smash-mouth, hard-fought battle with Skyler. In the end, Shane got the win and then extended his hand to the former champ. Skyler initially snubbed Shane, but ultimately accepted the offering and pulled Shane into a congratulatory (and respect-showing) hug. It was a classy and classic moment from two proud wrestlers and the fans loved it.

Shane's victory capped off a great night at The Resistance. There were seven excellent matches and I had the privilege of calling four of them on commentary. The night far surpassed my expectations and I look forward to the next chapter of The Resistance.

Shane Mercer and me in Summit, IL-May 2019.

Thank You Bob Sakamoto

Yesterday, I featured DePaul softball Coach Tracie Adix-Zins. Today, I turn the spotlight on DePaul Assistant Director of Athletic Communications Bob Sakamoto, who facilitated all of my coverage of the softball team (and previously the women's basketball team, too).

Bob might be better known as a newspaper writer and author. Growing up reading Bob's stories in the Tribune, I never imagined I would one day be working alongside him. It has been a bit surreal, but it has definitely been a cool experience.

I appreciate all Bob has done for me with the women's basketball team and the women's softball team. He has been completely professional and a huge help in facilitating my coverage.

Bob is beloved by all who know him and everyone knows Bob. He's just a really good guy.

I thank Bob and DePaul University for allowing me access and for providing lots of great entertainment. It has been a blast and I look forward to next season for both women's basketball and softball.

Bob Sakamoto and me in Chicago, IL-May 2019.

Thank You DePaul Coach Tracie Adix-Zins

The DePaul women's softball team's season ended with a loss to James Madison in the Michigan Regionals of the NCAA tournament. Despite teh first round exit, it was a successful and fun season for the Blue Demons.

The Blue Demons finished the season with a record of 35-16. They were 11-5 in Big East Conference play and won the Big East tournament, which gave them the automatic berth in the NCAA tourney.

Coach Tracie Adix-Zins did a fantastic job, after taking over for the legendary Eugene Lenti. Following a legend is never easy, but Coach Tracie is off to a great start.

As a player, Coach Tracie earned All-American honors as a pitcher. As a senior, she led DePaul to the 2007 Women’s College World Series with a 22-4 record. She was 10-0 against Big East teams. Before returning to DePaul as Head Coach, she had stints as an assistant at Wisconsin, Oklahoma State and North Carolina State.

The future looks bright for the Blue Demons. The team will only lose four seniors. Sabrina Kuchta (2B), Brianna Viles (OF), Alysia Rodriguez (IF) and Morgan Greenwood (C/3B) have finished their  playing careers at DePaul and will be moving on to their next chapters in their lives.

The six juniors turning seniors will be expected to assume more of a leadership role, while the other underclassmen will also step up. Of course, there is always the infusion of new talent with the incoming freshman class.

Despite the excitement of this season and the future, Coach Tracie has other things on her mind in the immediate future. She will be welcoming a new little one into the Adix-Zins clan.

I had a blast covering the Blue Demons this season. I look forward to even more fun next season.

I thank DePaul's Bob Sakamoto and Alyssa Damato for facilitating my coverage all season.I also thank Coach Tracie and the entire team for their time and consideration along the way.

My online piece for Global Traveler can be found at The Road to the Women's College World Series. Also, go to DePaulBlueDemons.com for info on all of the teams at DePaul. Check back here for recurring coverage of the women's basketball team and the women's softball team.

Tracie Adix-Zins and me in Chicago, IL-May 2019.

Friend Encounters: Richie Ramone and Joey Roth

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

If his hair was darker, Joey Roth could be one of the Ramones. He's a knowledgeable enough fan to pull it off, too.

At Chicago Pop Culture Con last year, I was there to witness Joey meet Richie Ramone. Richie was there in part to promote I Know Better Now: My Life Before, During and After the Ramones, his recently published book. The meeting of Richie and Joey was epic (at least in Joey's mind).

In all seriousness, Joey was excited to meet Richie, as was I. The Ramones do not make many appearances these days. For fans like Joey and me, this was pretty cool.

Richie is pretty much considered the best drummer the Ramones ever had. He is the only drummer to have sung lead vocals on Ramones songs. Joey Ramone gave Richie credit for saving the Ramones and putting the spirit back in the band. That's high praise from Joey considering the amount of discourse in the band over the years.

Meanwhile, Joey Roth credits himself with saving the Chicago wrestling scene. One of Joey's idols is Rowdy Roddy Piper and it shows in Joey's work and style. I haven't seen Joey wrestle, but I have heard his work on the mic and with a crowd. He has the charisma and the verbal sparring ability to capture a crowd, whether they are with him or against him.

At Chicago Pop Culture Con, I had the pleasure of interviewing Richie. That interview can be found at On the Beat with Richie Ramone. I have yet to interview Joey, but he is on my radar and it will appear right here when it happens.

You can get more info on Richie at RichieRamone.com. You can follow Joey on social media and also check him out at POWW Entertainment.

You can catch Joey all over the Chicago area wrestling scene. You can also find "The best damn villain ever" at Joey Roth on Facebook. Hopefully, I will catch Joey at an event and add him to my interview resume.

Joey Ramone and Richie Ramone in St. Charles, IL-November 2018.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #428 Allie Quigley & Megan Blank

This is a regular series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing jerseys. Once again, we are working our way alphabetically through all of the Major League Baseball teams.

A native of Joliet, IL, Allie Quigley starred at Joliet Catholic and DePaul before being selected by the Seattle Storm in the WNBA 2008 draft. A few teams later, Quigley joined her hometown Chicago Sky in 2013. She is as popular as she is talented. It has been a lot of fun watching her up close during my coverage of the Sky. Quigley earned a Celebrity Jersey Card when she threw out the first pitch for the Chicago Cubs.

Megan Blank starred at the University of Iowa, before joining the Chicago Bandits in 2015.Megan was an outstanding and popular player for the Bandits during her four seasons, before retiring earlier this year. Megan was a real pleasure to watch and know. She was the consummate pro and she'll be missed. Megan's Celebrity Jersey Card comes from a childhood picture of hers. I am assuming the picture is from one of her childhood teams.

Kristy McNichol at Motor City Comic Con 2016

Motor City Comic Con is coming back to Novi, MI May 17-19. I always look forward to this con. I also look back on so many great memories there.

From 1976-1980, Kristy McNichol starred as Letitia "Buddy" Lawrence on tv's Family.  Eight years later, she had another successful tv run as Barbara Weston on Empty Nest from 1988-1995.  I was a regular watcher of both shows.

When I saw McNichol would be at the 2016 Motor City Comic Con, I put her on my priority list.  She hadn't done many celebrity appearances and I wasn't going to miss her there.  In fact, since her acting retirement in 2001, she spent most of her time teaching acting and doing charity work.

McNichol is an actress I never expected to meet.  Because of her low profile, it seemed I wouldn't get the chance.  Then when I did, it was a bit surreal.  I remember watching her as "Buddy" way back when.  It was almost like seeing a childhood friend.  Back then, there was never a thought that you would actually meet and talk to these tv stars.  You were happy just to pic up a magazine and read about them or maybe join their fan club.

McNichol was as sweet as could be.  We talked about her shows, her brother Jimmy and more.  She seemed genuinely grateful for her fans and I know the fans were happy to see her.

I haven't seen her doing any shows since.  I hope she does some shows though, because an entire generation grew up watching her grow up on tv and would love to see her.  I'd certainly like to see her again.

For this year's celebrity and artist lineup, head to MotorCityComicCon.com. I'll be "On the Beat" all weekend.

Kristy McNichol, Cuzz Gekas and me in Novi, MI-May 2016.

Taryn Terrell at Motor City Comic Con 2013

The Motor City Comic Con starts today. I'll be "On the Beat" all weekend creating new memories, but for here, I am recalling some of my favorite moments from my years at MCCC.
Taryn Terrell was part of the 2007 WWE Diva Search. Although she did not win, she was signed to a developmental deal. She has remained on the wrestling scene ever since, working for Impact and on the independent scene as well. She parlayed her wrestling presence into an acting career, appearing in several movies and tv shows.
At the MCCC 2013, Taryn had huge lines. The formula is easy. Beautiful woman + wrestling career = long lines of male fans. Taryn's appeal increases because she has had prominent roles in each company. Although her in-ring career has only produced one title (the Knockouts title), Taryn has kept a high profile wherever she has worked.
MCCC has a history of having quality wrestling stars on their celebrity guest list. It's a great place to meet some wrestlers without the usual super long lines at wrestling shows. They also usually give you a bit more time than at wrestling shows. It's one of the things I love about MCCC.
You can follow Taryn at @IAmTarynTerrell on twitter. Make sure you go to MotorCityComicCon.com for all of the info, including the celebrity guest list and scheduling. You can also find Motor City Comic Con on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Taryn Terrell and me in Novi, MI-May 2013.

Happy Birthday Laura!

Today, I celebrate the birthday of my first niece. Laura turns 32 today!

It's always cliche to mention how time flies, but it is also so true. How can little Pooky be 32?

It's been a fun 32 years being around her. She has grown into a talented, smart, funny, opinionated young woman.

I will always regret not being around my family for some years due to my own issues, but I will always cherish the extra cool moments we have shared since. I always bring up two east coast trips with Laura. While being squeezed by all of her belongings was not a comfy ride, as her mother and I brought her to and from New York, we had a lot of great laughs on those trips.

Last year, on a miserable rainy day, Laura not only dragged her best friend Karen out with her to cheer for me during the Chicago Marathon, she also made sure they both wore Johngy shirts. I can honestly say, knowing she was waiting for me around mile 20 really made a difference.

I had to make it to see her there, despite my aching body. Laura and Karen were the last of my supporters I would see an I wasn't going to stop until I saw them.

I saw their big smiles from a long way away. They immediately lifted my spirits and chased away the pain for a bit.

That was just one of so many thoughtful things Laura does for me and everyone around her. Cookies, texts, cards and more are just part of the love she shows all.

Happy birthday, Laura. I hope your day is as special as you are! I love you.

Karen, Laura and me in Chicago, IL-October 2018.

Vader At Motor City Comic Con 2017

The Motor City Comic Con returns May 17-19. While looking forward to this year's event, I look back on some my most memorable moments over the years at MCCC. Unfortunately, some memories are bittersweet.

Before he was Big Van Vader, Leon White was a star offensive lineman for the University of Colorado and was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the 1978 NFL Draft. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his NFL career.

Football's loss was wrestling's gain. As Vader, he went on to become one of the best and most athletic big men in the business. His Vadersault was one of his most impressive moves.

I have met Vader several times, including at Resistance Pro Wrestling and at Motor City Comic Con. While always pleasant, he was pretty quiet. Still, if you started talking to him, he would warm up into the conversation.

In shaking hands with him even then, you could feel his strength. I can only imagine how strong he was back in his football days. 

Vader had a rough stretch around the time I met him at MCCC. He had some health issues and there were a few scary moments. Unfortunately, Vader lost his battle in June 2018. He is greatly missed and fondly remembered by all.

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for all of the info, including the celebrity guest list and scheduling. You can also find Motor City Comic Con on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Vader and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.

Mickie James at Motor City Comic Con 2010

Motor City Comic Con takes place May 17-19 in Novi, MI. I continue looking back on some of my favorite guests from previous years.

Mickie James was a fan of wrestling as she grew up.  She attended a wrestling school and made her debut in 1999.  Since then, she has wrestled for the WWE, Impact, ROH and many other companies, winning titles everywhere.

Several years ago, Mickie released Strangers and Angels, an 11 track cd.  Mickie wasn't the first wrestler to incorporate singing into her gimmick, but she was one of the most legit to do so.

Mickie co-wrote a couple songs on the cd.  She also opened shows for Montgomery Gentry, Randy Houser, Gretchen Wilson, and Rascal Flatts.
I bought this cd directly from her at the Motor City Comic Con.  I'm not usually a fan of country music, but I do like this cd (and not because I like her).  Years later, it is still in my cd rotation in my car.  Especially if you like country music, check out the cd on YouTube.
A few years later, she released Somebody's Gonna Pay.  I never got this cd, but I really need to do that.

You can get more news and updates by following Mickie James on twitter.  Also, all of Mickie's music is still available on Amazon.
For this year's celebrity and artist lineup, head to MotorCityComicCon.com. I'll be "On the Beat" all weekend (May 18-20). Mickie is not scheduled to be there, but plenty of other great celebrities and creators will be there..

Jason Fleigel, Mickie James and me in Novi, MI-May 2010.

Friend Encounters: Colin Ferguson and Matt Parker at Motor City Comic Con

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have met celebrities. With Motor City Comic Con coming May 17-19, I am presenting a special Motor City Comic Con edition.

After a couple years of attending MCCC by myself, friends started to join me on the trip. We peaked at four total (Jason Fleigel, Cuzz Gekas and Matt Parker), which might have been the most fun I've ever had on the trip. It is always cool to facilitate friends meeting their favorite stars.

I forget which of Colin Ferguson's roles my nephew Matt followed, but he wanted to meet him. Canadian born, Ferguson has had a lengthy and successful career on the big screen and on television. As a side note, he is also a huge fan of the Montreal Canadiens and has done guest-blogging on NHL.com.

Two of his more well-known roles were Eureka and The Vampire Diaries. Of course, I knew him best as the "Maytag Man" from the Maytag commercials. He did not have any 8x10's from that role, but he did have plenty of other pictures from his many other parts.

The MCCC is in May, right in the middle of the Stanley Cup playoffs. With Detroit being a big hockey town, there is plenty of puck talk. Ferguson's Canadiens aren't very popular in Red Wings territory though.

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info and scheduling. Also follow Motor City Comic Con on Facebook for more frequent updates.

Colin Ferguson and Matt Parker in Novi, MI-May 2012.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #427 Ronald Reagan & Robert Young

This is a regular series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing jerseys. Once again, we are working our way alphabetically through all of the Major League Baseball teams.

Ronald Reagan was born in northwest Illinois. Before entering politics and eventually being elected president, Reagan had a successful career as an actor. It was his role in The Winning Team, a fictionalized biography about Grover Cleveland Alexander, which allowed me to make his Celebrity Jersey Card.

Chicago native Robert Young is probably best known for his leading roles in Father Knows Best and Marcus Welby in Marcus Welby, M.D. Young earned his Celebrity Jersey Card from his role in Death on the Diamond, a mystery film from 1934.

On the Beat with DePaul's Coach Tracie Adix-Zins and Natalie Halvorson

Yesterday, DePaul University beat the Providence Friars to advance to the championship game of the Big East tournament for the third straight year. DePaul improved their record to 33-14 overall with the 4-0 victory over Providence. Today, they face Villanova, who beat St. John's earlier yesterday.

DePaul jumped to a quick 3-0 lead in the first inning. Maranda Gutierrez singled, then advanced on a Jessica Cothern ground out. Morgan Greenwood walked and Kate Polucha cleared the bases with a three run home run.

The score remained 3-9 until the bottom of the 4th. Skylor Hilger singled and scored when Brianna Viles struck out, but reached on an error.

Natalie Halverson went the distance for her 20th win of the season. She allowed only 4 hits, while striking out 5 and walking none.

After the game, I talked to both Coach Adix-Zins and Halvorson about the big win and the upcoming championship game. Both were naturally excited and ready for today's game (at 11:30).

Thank you to DePaul's Bob Sakamoto and Alyssa Damato for their assistance as well as Communications Assistant Korey Schrock from the Big East. Also thanks to the Big East and DePaul University.

'

Chanel Ryan at Motor City Comic Con 2013

Motor City Comic Con, May 17-19 is one week awy. I can't wait for the weekend of fun, but for now I recall some of my favorite moments over my many years of covering MCCC.
It's hard to believe, but model and actress Chanel Ryan has been entertaining audiences for almost 30 years. She is beautiful and talented. Her "Benchwarmer Trading Card" was one of the most popular cards in the series and she has been named "Sexiest ..." by many sources. Not just a pretty face, she has acted steadily since 1989.
Chanel was very pleasant when I approached her for an interview. Unfortunately, I was still a little inexperienced and my interview wasn't exactly fascinating. Still, I am happy to have landed Chanel on one. That interview can be found at On the Beat With Chanel Ryan.
Chanel was easily one of the most popular guests at that MCCC. A career as a model, coupled with some key roles in popular movies will create that type of interest. I really appreciated her taking time away from her fans for our interview.
A vegetarian since her teens, Chanel is very dedicated to world causes. A portion of the proceeds from her convention appearances goes to animal funds.
Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for all of the info, including the celebrity guest list and scheduling. You can also find Motor City Comic Con on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Chanel Ryan and me in Novi, MI-May 2013.

Emily Reppert Loves Johngy's Beat

Emily Reppert is an Emmy-nominated reporter and host. Currently, she is the In-Game host for the New York Mets.

A graduate of Temple University, Emily started her career in Minnesota, then moved on to FOX Sports Southwest. Her first national role was at the inaugural BattleFrog College Championship on ESPN in 2015. She has remained very busy as she builds her career and gains recognition.

Emily was kind enough to do a promo for Johngy's Beat. It was extra nice of her to mention that the site is the "316th best site for pop culture nuggets," a fact she learned on her own. It was a funny and cool extra personal touch, which was above and beyond even doing the promo.

It's that kind of effort that has earned her respect in the industry. She is dedicated to her craft and is fan-friendly. I have been a fan of her work for a while, but now I am a bigger fan. She ends the promo with a "Go Mets," which is expected given her current role. As a lifelong Cubs fan, it's hard for me to say that, but just this once, just for Emily, Go Mets!

Go to EmilyReppert.com for more info on her. Also, like Emily on Facebook and follow Emily on twitter.

"Hulk Hogan" at Motor City Comic Con 2018

The Motor City Comic Con runs May 18 through May 20 in Novi, MI. As always, I will be "On the Beat" there, meeting celebrities and participating in all of the other fun to be had. Until then, I will be recalling some of my favorite times at MCCC over the years.

Last year, although he was not announced as a guest, I was shocked to see wrestling legend Hulk Hogan among the attendees. Hulk looked great, although he was shorter and not as muscular as I remember.

Seriously, this "Hulk" was just one of many cosplayers at MCCC. Many years ago when I first attended MCCC, there were some people in costumes, but nowhere near as many as there are ow. Cosplaying has become a major part of MCCC.

Cosplayers can go for elaborate costumes or simple ones. They can be parts of groups, in contests or just dressing for fun.

A few years ago, The Joker and Harley Quinn were the most popular costume choices. Fortunately, lately people have been more creative and unique in their cosplaying.

Every year, I always look for an Aquaman. In the early years, I always found one guy dressed as Aquaman. I heard his name was Scott. Now with the release of the Aquaman movie, I expect to see several attendees donning Aquaman garb. I only hope some are brave enough to go old school.

I would think wrestlers would be more popular in cosplaying. The colorful characters and outfits lend themselves perfectly. In Chicago, Too Sweet Cosplay has upped the game for wrestling cosplayers. We'll see what happens in Novi.

At least last year I saw Hulk. He even went for the older classic Hulk look, instead of the newer, edgier NWO type Hulk. Kudos on that.

Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for more info on MCCC, including the celebrity guest list and schedule. You can also follow Motor City Comic Con on Facebook for more frequent updates and info.

"Hulk Hogan" and me in Novi, MI-May 2018.

Grammar Police Watch: Update-Bollywood Salon and Spa

Earlier this year, I presented the first Grammar Police Watch.  In Grammar Police Watch: Bollywood Salon & Spa, I took a local business to task for a neon sign with a spelling error ("availabe").
I understand mistakes are made and I have made many spelling and grammar mistakes. This is a neon sign though and either the error was never noticed or (worse) it was noticed and the sign was used anyway.

This morning on my walk for a bagel, I was pleasantly surprised to see a new sign at Bollywood Salon & Spa. The new sign eliminated the spelling error. The new sign is no longer a neon lettered sign, but is now an LED message board. I applaud the improvement.
In this age of technology, why deal with a permanent neon sign, when you can have an LED changeable sign. Even if they never change the message, having that option is always a good idea. Plus, they now have the ability to correct any misspellings on future messages.
The big question is if JohngysBeat.com influenced this? Could the powers that be there have seen my previous rambling? Having had the sign like that for a long while, the timing of the change is interesting.

Friend Encounters: PL Myers and Chazz Moretti

Friend Encounters is a weekly series featuring friends who have et celebrities.

Take your pick for friend or celebrity for PL Myers and Chazz Moretti. Actually, this is one of those cases where they are both.

PL and Chazz are two of the best managers on the independent wrestling scene. While their characters are different, they possess similar qualities. Both have charisma, command attention, have great mic skills and basically have all of the necessary components of a great manager. They both can even get in a match on occasion. They also both have a tremendous respect for the business and their craft.

As friends, they also share similar qualities. Both men are funny, humble, supportive and loyal.

I have learned a lot by watching them and have enjoyed every minute of it. I don't think they have ever worked against each other and that's a shame. I think they could do great work. I'm pretty sure they never even worked for the same company at the same time.

Young wrestlers or managers can learn a lot from these two. The big companies seem to underutilize the manager role, but it is still used effectively on the indy scene.

Both men are very active around the Chicago area. They might not be working together yet, but at lest they appeared together for the picture below.

PL Myers and Chazz Moretti in Rosemont, IL-September 2019.

Celebrity Jersey Cards #426 Anson Williams & Don Most

This is a regular series in which I create virtual trading cards for celebrities wearing jerseys. We continue to make our way alphabetically through Major League Baseball.

Anson William Heimlich was born in Los Angeles and grew to fame in show business as Anson Williams. He originated the role of Warren "Potsie" Weber on a segment on Love, American Style and is one of only three actors (with Ron Howard and Marion Ross) to reprise their roles when Happy Days became a series. Williams has remained very active acting and directing. As a trivia note, Williams' uncle, Dr. Henry Heimlich is the namesake of the famous maneuver for saving choking victims. Willliams' Celebrity Jersey Card come from a special Happy Days Night the Brewers held..

Like his castmate Williams, Don Most was born in Los Angeles and rose to fame on tv's Happy Days. Ralph Malph was the jokester. Most has remained active in acting, along with doing voiceover work and singing. Most's Celebrity Jersey Card comes from the special Happy Days Night the Brewers held.

Parker Stevenson at Motor City Comic Con 2013

Motor City Comic Con, May 17-19, is about 2 weeks away. While I count down the days, I look back on some of my favorite moments over the years at MCCC.
Like millions of other boys, I was a big fan of The Hardy Boys book series when I was a youngster. I was a young teenager when The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries aired on television. It was an interesting show in concept, because the stories attracted the boys, while heart throb actors Shaun Cassidy and Parker Stevenson attracted the girls. Basically, it appealed to all youngsters.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Parker at MCCC 2013. That interview can be found at On the Beat with Parker Stevenson. I like to think I improved a lot since that interview. Now, I would have asked more about the show's target demographic, because I think it is very interesting hwo they did that. I'd also ask more about his photography. Obviously, he is very talented and I am sure he would have talked more about this, because most interviewers wouldn't have brought it up.
Under the constraints of the convention, I did okay and it was very short. At least I was able to log in an interview with Parker. I am very happy with that.
Parker has remained busy in show business and with his photography. He has been very cool at every convention where I have seen him.
Check out his photography work at ParkerStevensonShadowWorks.com. Photography is a hobby and passion he developed at an early age. He really has done some beautiful work.
Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for all of the info, including the celebrity guest list and scheduling. You can also find Motor City Comic Con on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Parker Stevenson and me in Novi, MI-May 2013.

Alloy Ash at Motor City Comic Con 2013

The Motor City Comic Con, May 17-19 is quickly approaching. As I count the days, I look back on some of my favorite moments from previous years at MCCC.

Alloy Ash is a model and a welder. That's an odd combination, but she has found success in both fields. She was a Michigan state champion welder.

When I learned of her unique resume, I asked for an interview at MCCC. That interview can be found at On the Beat With Alloy Ash.

A native of Detroit, Alloy was a very popular guest at the MCCC. It is always funny when local celebrities appear at MCCC. Many area residents know her and greet her as a friend. To the rest of the attendees, she was a star. It is cool to see the difference in reactions, but Alloy was pretty much the same no matter who approached her. She was friendly and upbeat all weekend.

The MCCC always seems to have a couple celebrities from the area. It's a great idea to promote their own, yet still bring name value to the convention.

Go to AlloyAsh.com for more info. You can also follow Ash Alloy on Facebook and @AlloyAsh on twitter.  Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for all of the info, including the celebrity guest list and scheduling. You can also find Motor City Comic Con on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Alloy Ash and me in Novi, MI-May 2013.

Jay Brant At Motor City Comic Con 2017

Motor City Comic Con, May 17-19, is about two weeks away and I cannot wait. While I look forward to this year's MCCC, I am recalling some of my favorite moments from previous years at MCCC.
Whenever I see an artist with superhero creations, I immediately look for Aquaman. Such was the case when I first saw Jay Brant and his wall of superhero heads. I did spot a cool Aquaman head and it was old school Aquaman, too!
I quickly learned that Jay focused on heads, reflected in his studio name of Head's Up. It's a neat concept. Jay wanted to do something a bit different than draw superheros like everyone else. With Head's Up,. he has accomplished that.
Drawing only the heads can be a challenge though. They all have to be different. It would be easy, but boring, to start making them all look similar, but Jay somehow manages to make them all unique, despite doing hundreds of them. That's a credit to his talent and artistic vision.
Over the years, Jay has become one of my favorite artists. His booth is one of my regular stops and I always look forward to new heads he has drawn/
You can get more info on Jay and see his artwork at HeadsUpStudios.com. Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for all of the info, including the celebrity guest list and scheduling. You can also find Motor City Comic Con on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Jay Brant and me in Novi, MI-May 2017.

Dwight Schultz at Motor City Comic Con 2012

Motor City Comic Con 2019 runs May 17-19. As I look forward to another weekend f fun in Novi, MI, I recall some of my favorite moments from previous MCCC's.
It was always extra fun when more friends joined the MCCC trip. My longtime bud Jason Fleigel came with us for several years.
Dwight Schultz has a lengthy resume of acting and voiceover work. His voice can be heard in many animated productions, as well as many video games. His voiceover work often overshadows his acting, but he has been equally as successful appearing on camera, including roles in the Star Trek franchise.
Schultz was extremely popular at MCCC 2012. When you have that lengthy and varied of a body of work, you will attract all sorts of fans and Schultz did. It also helped that he was extremely fan-friendly and very happy to tal;k about any of his projects.
Go to MotorCityComicCon.com for all of the info, including the celebrity guest list and scheduling. You can also find Motor City Comic Con on Facebook and other social media platforms.

Jason Fleigel, Dwight Schultz and me in Novi, MI-May 2012.